HOT Magazine, November 15, 2015

ISSUE 11, VOLUME 03, NOVEMBER 15, 2015

Luxury Living & Exclusive Lifestyle

H T MA AZINE Hua Hin, Bangkok

HOT MAGAZINE COMPLIMENTARY COPY

SUKANYA POLJAK FASHION DESIGNER, MODEL, ACTRESS • CENTENNIAL CLUB ANOTHER JEWEL IN HUA HIN’S CROWN • THAILAND’S POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB • HUA HIN’S PROPERTY MARKET CONTINUES TO HEAT UP www.hotmagazine.website

Luxury Living & Exclusive Lifestyle

Edited and published by HOT Hua Hin Co. Ltd. Managing & Creative Editor Tanya Siri Vijitsomphong tanya@hothuahin.com Graphic Design & Layout WebbOn Media Production info@webbon.se Photographer NANTaPix - facebook.com/nantapix Contact Information: +66 (0)94 562 4560 +66 (0)94 960 4959 info@hothuahin.com www.hotmagazine.website Contact us to find out how to get the most for your advertising baht sales@hothuahin.com Follow us on facebook for more pictures & upcoming events: HotMagazineHuahinBangkok

Media Partner of the Thailand Property Awards 2015

Dear Reader Welcome to Issue 11, Volume 3. Recently, HOT Magazine had the distinct pleasure of sitting down with Khun Sukanya Poljak. Khun Sukanya is a fashion designer, model, actress and mother. From dressing all of the contestants for Miss Malaysia 2015 to walking the red carpet at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, Khun Sukanya shares with us her non-stop lifestyle and how it all began. That’s on page 30.

This month we also welcome in a new era for tennis lovers.

The Centenial Sports Club, Hua Hin’s first and only true sports club opened with an ATP Challenger Tour Tennis Tournament.

With US$ 125,000 in prize money, 32 players from around the world gathered in Hua Hin to compete in this first of what will be many tennis tournaments to come; page 38.

Next up we re-introduce you to Hua Hin’s biggest boosters, the Liptapanlop family. Through their Proud Real Estate Company, they have invested heavily in Hua Hin. From their InterContinental Hua Hin Resort and all of the events they sponsor, their billion-baht waterpark, Vana Nava, to the new Centennial Sports Club and the currently under-construction BluPort Resort Shopping mall, Hua Hin is a much more fun place to live because of them. That’s on page 40.

When someone thinks of Thailand, more than likely thoughts of a vibrant city, tropical islands and elephants comes to mind.

Polo and Equestrian sports probably don’t, but they should.

This month we take you to the Thai Polo and Equestrian Club located in Pattaya. On over 2,000 rai of land the Thai Polo and Equestrian Club is arguably the most unique facility of its kind in all of Asia. Join us on page 48.

Our “Let’s Go” feature this month takes us to the province of Sa Kaeo where their motto is, “The frontier of the east, beautiful forests, plenty of ancient civilizations and the commercial venue between Thailand and Cambodia”. Quite a mouthful I think you’d agree but well worth the travel. Hop on board, page 52.

Those are just a few of the stories you’ll find inside this month. As always, thank you for picking us up and we hope you enjoy the read.

OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER

Although all materials are published in good faith and based on information solicited to us at the time of publication, the publisher takes no responsibility for any errors, loss or omissions that may occur.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in full or in part without the previous written consent of HOT Hua Hin Co. Ltd. All materials copyright.

All rights are reserved.

Tanya Siri Vijitsomphong Editor of The HOT Magazine

Contents

30 12

40

8

Let’s Meet Jean-Marc Mocellin

12

Let’s Eat, Hua Hin Prime Steakhouse

20

Around Hua Hin

27

Around Bangkok

30

A Conversation with Khun Sukanya Poljak

38

A New Era for Tennis Lovers in Hua Hin

40

Centennial Club, Another Jewel in our Crown

48

Thailand’s Polo & Equestrian Club

52

Let’s Go Sa Keaw Province

58

Let’s Stay, Bangkok Swissotel Nai Lert Park

64

Miss Grand International

68

Let’s Check in Venice Di Iris Bangkok

74

Hua Hin & Cha Am’s Property Market

78

Hua Hin’s Best Buys

48

52 68

CELEBRATE TOGETHER ON THE NIGHT OF THE FULL MOON.

THE MOST PICTURESQUE FESTIVALS. Celebrate the Full Moon in Thailand with the spectacular Loy Krathong Festival in true Thai style at our Pirom Restaurant. Enjoy a special Thai welcome cocktail, followed by a delicious Thai buffet along with a traditional Thai performance and the floating Krathong ritual in our pool.

Price: THB 1,200++ per person, including: • Krathong (a beautiful handmade Thai offering) • Thai Welcome Drink during 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM • Thai Buffet during 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM • Krathong floating at 8:00 PM at Pirom Restaurant’s Pool Let’s celebrate together on Wednesday, 25th November 2015.

Available from 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM

ASIA PACIFIC HOTEL AWARDS 2013 - 2014

WORLD LUXURY HOTEL AWARDS WINNER 2013

For more information or to make a reservation, please call +66 (0) 32 616999 ichh.rsvn@ihg.com or visit intercontinental.com/huahin

IN OVER 170 LOCATIONS ACROSS THE GLOBE INCLUDING BALI

. DANANG . BORA BORA . SAMUI

L et’s Meet

Jean-Marc Mocellin

WHAT IS YOUR FULL NAME AND AGE? My Name is Jean-Marc Mocellin. As for my age, I am mature enough yet, not too old to manage the challenges involved in my position WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT JOB POSITION? I am the General Manager of the most glamourous resort in Hua Hin HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN HUA HIN OR BEEN COMING TO HUA HIN? I arrived in Hua Hin on July 1st and visited twice before moving here WHAT DID YOU KNOW ABOUT HUA HIN BEFORE YOU MOVED HERE? I started to get interested in Hua Hin 8 years ago when IHG (Intercontinental Hotel Group) offered me the job of opening the… Intercontinental Hua Hin resort !

I was very tempted by this very elegant and sophisticated resort but I eventually declined the offer at that time due to the size of the operations, considering I was running a much bigger resort in Tahiti (French Polynesia) Since, the resort has matured well, our owners have engaged exiting enhancements such as a new Club Lounge Beach Villa for our

8

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

Intercontinental Club guests and a very trendy new Azure Beach Roof Bar opening mid November. Most of all, Intercontinental Hua Hin Resort is now completing 40 additional luxury rooms and suites in the new “Bluport wing”providing exclusive indoor and outdoor banqueting facilities, an additional restaurant Le Colonial, a Lounge Bar named Saraan for Jazz lovers and a spectacular swimming pool. The Bluport wing can be totally privatized and is a ideal for a large event such as weddings etc.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR PROFESSION? I chose this profession and decided to become a General Manager of luxury hotels at the age of 16 y.o, fascinated by what evolves around the profession such as travel, luxury, elegance, sophistication, service, refinement, meeting stars... I was probably influenced after watching many movies such as the James Bonds or Mort a Venise, etc. where I admired Palaces and legendary hotels of Europe and America.

Today and after so many years in operations, what I love most in my job is the variety of activities and responsibility a hotel GM has to assume. In a day I am not only dealing with accommodation or food & beverage matters but I am also very involved different fields such as maintenance, IT, Human resources, legal, yield management, Sales & Marketing, projects, PR, Finance, etc… I to never get bored

WHAT DO YOU LIKE LEAST ABOUT YOUR PROFESSION? A hotelier don’t close his shop in the evening till the next day and even less on weekends, work is never finished therefore one tends to spend a lot of hours at work unless you are very well organized WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT HUA HIN? Firstly I should say that I came to Hua Hin to live in Thailand. Indeed, after all my intensive travel around the globe for work or leisure, Thailand is the country where I found most of the ingredients matching what I was looking for to settle in for a while if not for good.

I also found the right Owners who are not just investors but a family who cares, cherishes, reinvests and develops their property which is an enormous advantage in terms of quality, guest satisfaction and the team motivation.

Lastly, Hua Hin is a cute city where there is still so much to develop and with a huge potential.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT AND WHY? To be very honest, in the torment of the handover, the renovations to complete and the opening of the new Bluport wing, I hardly had a chance to test many restaurants so, I will just mention that I love to eat and walk around Cicada market on weekends.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME AND WHY? More active than intellectual I prefer outdoor sports activities, adventure trips.

I have done a lot of sports all my life and cannot remain sedentary too long.

I love going to movies though (more movies in English would be great in hua Hin theaters BTW ;-) WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO NEW-COMERS TO DO IN HUA HIN AND WHY? There is so much to do… For Families I would definitely recommend Vananava, the Winery is also a great trip, Cicada market…

TELL US A SURPRISING FACT THAT THE PUBLIC MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU? I am attracted to sports that boost my adrenaline, I used to parachute, moto cross racing, horse racing games and hunting.

WHAT IS THE MOST OUTLANDISH THING YOU HAVE EVER DONE AND WHY? Such a difficult question to answer, out of the crazy activities plane acrobatics, the most memorable moment relates to my adventure travel and I would hesitate between waking up at dawn on Peru’s Machu Pichu in the middle of ancient ruins or diving in the reef pass of Rangiroa (remote island in French Polynesia) in the middle of sharks, dolphins, manta Rays and turtles or, being in the middle of a sunset ceremony in Rishikesh at the source of the Ganges river, surrounded by a thousand ashram orphan children singing and praying around a huge fire pit till dark.

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

9

#1 1 MINUTE ONLINE ORDER

1 HOUR SHIPPING WITHIN HUA HIN

1 DAY SHIPPING WITHIN THAILAND

SWIMWEAR IN THAILAND

100% NEOPRENE

POPPY---PINK-LEMONADE

FARRAH---HOTEL-CALIFORNIA

FARRAH---BROWN-SUGAR

LULU---SUGAR-BEACH

LULU---TUTTI-FRUTTI

POPPY---BLUE-CRUSH

WELCOME FOR A BIKINI TRY OUT AT OUR SHOP 119/4, Soimoobaan NongKae, Hua-Hin Prachuabkirikhan Province, Thailand 77110 (opposite Cicada Market) Open 12am-9pm Tel: +66 87-811-4917

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE MORE PRODUCTS

WWW.TRIANGL.CO.TH

L et’s Eat, Hua Hin

HOT MAGAZINE RECOMMEND

Prime Steakhouse

12

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

I

f there is one place where you will get your absolute best fill of good quality steak and grilled products in Hua Hin, it is without a doubt at Prime Steakhouse. The HOT Magazine team had the wonderful pleasure of being warmly welcomed to this magnificent restaurant in the heart of the town’s business district. Little would we have known then, but we were being prepared for one of the most delightful treats when we walked into the stylishly decorated restaurant. Playing a variety mix of early century songs, everything was set for what would be a thoroughly pampering experience, and whilst we picked out a drink to refresh our palates, we were immediately presented with some wet towels to refresh our hands.

This time we went for a nice rosé of wonderful ruby shades and fruity notes, which would go very well with the rest of the evening’s food.

The show began with the half avocado with crab fish skagen served with toasted bread, lemon and dill. Presented with a wonderfully balanced aesthetic, a crown of skagen on the avocado base caught the eye of our team. It then caught the palate, with its wonderfully creamy and mellow taste, something that was enhanced by the incredibly soft texture from the avocado. We were made to know of the assured quality of the latter, as Prime takes great care to import these from New Zealand and the United States. It certainly tasted worth the effort, as it combined perfectly with the crispy contrast of the bread.

We were then presented a second entre and of course, we soon found out that the dishes got better and better progressively: the fresh half (or full) Canadian lobster served cold with Rhode Island dressing, mixed salad and toasted ciabatta was an absolutely tantalising dish. Presented in a very attractive elongated platter, it was well decorated and stylish. The taste was just as good, for it possessed an incredibly firm texture that was very fresh and rich in flavour, with hints of herbs. Finely balanced by the creamy Rhode Island sauce, it was an absolute banger of a dish.

It was then time for the heavy weights: floating in came a medium rare grilled beef tenderloin on a wooden platter with duchess potatoes, Béarnaise sauce and bacon wrapped haricoverts – and yes, it tasted just as good as it sounds.

Incredibly tender meat, juicy and of soft consistence, aided by the mashed potatoes which were delightfully creamy and well balanced. The Béarnaise sauce added an incredibly special combination, along with the baked tomato, which provided a flavourful citrus touch, completing the dish spectacularly.

Next we would be presented with an Aok Norwegian salmon with dill cream potatoes. Presented elegantly on an

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

13

elongated platter, this dish was very tender and full of flavour. The salmon breaks apart very nicely and bears a fresh taste which goes very well with the mashed potatoes. The latter provided a wonderful balance to the dish along with the cherry tomato, which gave a fresh and fruity touch.

The final heavyweight dish was the Australian Tenderloin served with corn, grilled potatoes and pepper sauce.

Beautifully crafted, tender in the centre with a crispy and delicious crust and slightly charred to provide a delightful smoky flavour, it was a real appeal to the senses Its pepper sauce was incredibly special: strong and distinct in flavour, not disguised by the cream like in most other pepper sauces, full and developing gently on the palate, it really found a way to enamour us dearly.

How could have anyone been any happier? Well with desserts, of course. A spectacular crème BrulÊ came to pamper our toungue, absolutely fantastic, so creamy it dissolved over our palate.

The incredibly thin caramelized sugar at the top gave a strong distinction and the whipped cream, soft and elegant, combined with the vivid fruity and aromatic smell of the raspberry, strawberry and blueberry.

Then came the frozen cheese cake with Oreo chunks which was another absolutely wonderful way of ending the evening.

Very soft and tender, with a creamy touch to the palate and with the chocolate filling the mouth with a sweet and distinct taste it was crunchy and very aromatic.

Tantalising, all in all.

The Prime Steakhouse was a truly wonderful experience for the entire HOT Magazine team and we recommend all of you gourmets make your reservation as soon as you can. Very definitely worth it.

14

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

70/164 Soi 112 Huana , Tub Tai Road, Huahin, Prachuapkhirikhan, Thailand 77110 Email: info@fanslightshuahin.com Tel: +66(0)32 900426

www.fanslightshuahin.com

...is a perfect place for business meetings, parties, romantic dinners etc * * * *

European & Thai Food Prime Angus Beef Nice Wine Menu Garden, Waterfall & Live music Cha Am

The Garden Restaurant & Lounge Bar

Soi 80

Kao Takiab

174/16 soi 80 Hua Hin Tel: 032-908 680 thegarden.resto.lounge@gmail.com www.Thegardenrestolounge.com

Smart House

Just Got a Whole Lot Smarter

HIGHLY COMMENDED

www.smarthousevalleyhuahin.com

BEST RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT (HUA HIN) Smart House Valley Development by Suppagarn Real Estate Service Co. Ltd

Prices start at 5.9M European Fitted Kitchen - UPVC double glazed windows & doors Invertor air Conditioners - LED Lighting Expandable fly screening - Full Furniture Package Under roof & Over ceiling insulation - UPVC Rain Guttering Alarm System - Electric gate - Fully landscaped garden Granite Terrace & Driveway - Swimming Pool

Sales & Marketing

Mr. Grahame Beecham Tel: 0871089582 Email: salessmarthouse@gmail.com

QUALITY CUSTOMER SERVICE FROM DEPOSIT TO COMPLETION

AROUND HUA HIN SPIRIT SHRINE CEREMONY AT INTERCONTINENTAL® HUA HIN RESORT, BLUPORT WING InterContinental® Hua Hin Resort held a Spirit Shrine Ceremony on Monday, 19th October 2015, in an auspicious location of its new sumptuous extension, BluPort Wing, the newest luxury venue of accommodations in Hua Hin. The ceremony was led by Khunying Jaratpim Liptapanlop, together with her family including Khun Suwat Liptapanlop, Khun Poonpirom Liptapanlop, Khun Proudputh Liptapanlop and Khun Pasu Liptapanlop. The elaborate shrine is built from wood. It is believed that the spirit that lives in the spirit house will help to protect a building and to care for the welfare of household members, guests and all team members in the BluPort Wing.

CEO of Chiva-Som, Khun Krip Rojanastien with the Tang Kay Rumble Band

ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE OF DUSIT THANI HUA HIN CERTIFIED TO GOLD STATUS BY EARTHCHECK. Dusit Thani Hua Hin is proud to announce the achievement of “EarthCheck GOLD Certified” Certification for 2015 recognized by the EarthCheck program, the world’s leading environmental benchmarking and certifier of sustainable travel and tourism organizations. From the consistency for earning a high-standard of environmental and sustainable hotel’s management performance to maintaining its high percentage in saving the energy and water consumption as well as proper waste management,EarthCheck works hard at reducing the environmental impact.

20

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

12TH ANNUAL “I LOVE HUA HIN” CONCERT19 DECEMBER 2015 The 12th Annual “I Love Hua Hin” Concert is being organized by the Preserve Hua Hin Group and the Hua Hin municipality in honor of the 87th Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty the King. The event is going to be held on Saturday, 19 December 2015 in the public park on top of Hin Lek Fai hill, the viewpoint overlooking Hua Hin. The evening’s list of performers includes the 60s rock-n-rollers Tang Kay Rumble Band, the Zuper June Band, the Olarik Band and Khun Pong with THE SUN Band. Concert T-shirts are provided for all attendees and complimentary food will be provided by the local hotels and restaurants in Hua Hin. All proceeds are being donated to the Mangrove Ecosystem Preservation & Science Education Center to purchase tickets, please call 087-146-3258 or e-mail brian. anderson@chivasom.com.

AROUND HUA HIN

DUSIT THANI HUA HIN WELCOMED GARY STEVENS EX ENGLAND & TOTTENHAM FOOTBALLER Former Brighton, Tottenham Hotspurs and England star Gary Stevens visited Dusit Thani Hua Hin and very kindly surprised the Dusit Thani Hua Hin Football Academy kids with his presence during a training session last Saturday.

He spent plenty of time overseeing the team’s sessions and passing on valuable advice to all age categories. Having appeared in both an FA Cup final and a World Cup, he regaled everyone with

stories from his career, including how he felt as part of the England team whose World Cup dream was shattered by Diego Maradona’s infamous “Hand of God” goal.

More recently, likeable Gary has been working in Thailand as the manager/ head coach of Thai Premier League sides, Thai Army and latterly Thai Port.

We are hoping to have the opportunity of working more closely with Gary in

the not-too-distant future, but for now would like to thank him for his time and putting a smile on all our Dusit Thani Hua Hin Football Academy players’ faces and giving them the motivation to keep chasing their dream.

Dusit Thani Hua Hin Football Academy is one of Dusit Thani Hua Hin’s CSR initiatives. Helping to support youth football in the local community and making children’s dreams come true.

CELEBRATE THE 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY AND WIN A FREE FLIGHT TO OCEAN PARK HONG KONG A first year Celebration of Splashy surprise awaits you, keep sliding and win a free flight to Ocean Park Hong Kong and accommodation in the Ovolo Hong Kong, with your family. Four free prizes of Ocean Park tickets will also be given away, totaling 14 tickets. Get a

lucky draw coupon when you purchase an admission ticket for the Water Jungle Zone at Vana Nava Hua Hin and win prizes ranging from a free trip, to flights, to accommodation, to fun at the water park, and many more for a grand total of THB 200,000. Vana Nava Hua Hin receipt

can be a 10% discount of purchasing Ocean Park Hong Kong and 15% for Vana Nava Hua Hin annual pass holder.

Let’s start the celebration, for the entire month of November 2015! Winners will be announced in December 2015.

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

21

AROUND HUA HIN NEW CHEF AT LA GRAPPA La Grappa has appointed its new Chef Patron, Mr. Luigi Sica. Luigi will be known to many in Hua Hin as he was the highly commended Executive Chef at Black Mountain’s Italian Gourmet Restaurant in Hua Hin where he made a very good name for himself and for the restaurant.

Luigi is relatively young at 34 years of age, and brings fresh energy, fresh ideas and harmony, he has the capabilities and personality to offer all that.

Apart from Black Mountain’s Italian Restaurant, Luigi has spent a significant part of his career prior to coming to Thailand working for top Italian restaurants primarily in North Italy and at fine dining Swiss hotels in Lugarno.

HOMELESS FURNITURE & THE SAXOPHONE LOUNGE HOLDS JOINT ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS “TOGETHER WE ARE 3 YEARS OLD” IN OCTOBER! On the 9th of October Saxophone Lounge and Homeless Furniture held a 2 day joint Anniversary event at the Saxophone Lounge for Homeless Furniture’s 2nd Anniversary & Saxophone Lounge’s 1st Anniversary.

The companies’ owners are close friends

22

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

and have collaborated with past charity events. The Event was so well attended that it started off as a 1 day event which had to spread into two days to accommodate nearly 400 guests. The evening featured free Sangria, Homeless Furniture’s new outdoor range, great

music and lively people. For more information on: Homeless Furniture www.homeless-furniture.asia The Saxophone Lounge www.saxophoneloungehuahin.com

AROUND HUA HIN ANANTARA SPA HUA HIN SCOOPS THAILAND’S BEST HOTEL SPA IN THE WORLD SPA AWARDS 2015 stems from ancient Sanskrit origins and is richly expressed through a seamless integration of architecture and design, treatments, service and ambience.

At Anantara Hua Hin Resort, the tranquil Anantara Spa sanctuary takes full advantage of the resort’s botanical paradise. Six luxurious treatment suites each boast a private garden courtyard with an exotic outdoor rain shower, and some also with a deep terrazzo bathtub that is large enough for two, enhanced by soothing views of a tropical lotus filled lagoon. In addition, two steam rooms and a full service hair and beauty salon extend the spa’s offering.

Anantara Spa at Anantara Hua Hin Resort has won Thailand’s Best Hotel Spa in the World Spa Awards 2015, with Manish Jha, General Manager of Anantara Hua Hin Resort, proudly receiving the award at a glittering ceremony in Vietnam on 14 September 2015.

For this year’s World Spa Awards, a record number of votes were cast by top professionals in the international spa industry and hundreds of thousands of spa consumers from more than 90

countries. The World Spa Awards recognises and celebrates commitment to excellence, with winners setting a benchmark of quality in terms facilities, services and customer care.

Anantara Spa is a multi-awardwinning brand, renowned for its genuine hospitality and personalised service, indigenous authenticity and international flair, as well as expert therapists who are trained to the highest global standards.

Rooted in Thailand, the essence of Anantara philosophy, ‘without end’,

Manish Jha, General Manager of Anantara Hua Hin Resort, comments, “It is an honour to receive this prestigious spa award. The Anantara brand was born in Hua Hin and our spa truly uphold the values of indigenous authenticity and luxury discovery, delivered with impeccable service. With an alluring collection of signature experiences and Anantara Spa products also available for purchase, spa guests are assured of memorable journeys and long lasting benefits.”

Anantara Spa at Anantara Hua Hin Resort is open from 9:00 am – 9:00 pm.

For information or inquiries, please contact: Tel: +66 32 520 250 Email: huahin@ anantara.com Website: http://huahin. anantara.com

HILTON OKTOBERFEST An October isn’t a real October without the most genuine of German festivals: Oktoberfest. A traditional Bavarian custom dating centuries back, it is so entertaining that it is even acceptable to host it in early November, like it was done a few days ago. An initiative led by the Hilton Hotel, it was so thoroughly enjoyable that it brought joy to all the attendees, many of whom were wearing their lederhosen, Tyrolean hats and other typical accessories. Backed with original prizes, the wonderful games – drinking games – were one of the highlights of the night, which went from the classic chugging competition to the more extravagant log-sawing competition.

But everyone there would have drawn consensus if asked, that the most

engaging and humorous moments were set by Toni’s Beerband, an ensemble of classically dressed multi-talented and multi-instrumentalist gentlemen and women who energised the crowd from the stage. They did everything from singing, to involving the guests in an uproarious conga line, to pausing every fifteen minutes in order to encourage everybody to drink their beers in an ensemble. “And now, we take our glasses and raise them high in the sky… and we sing!” they uttered in the most typical German accent before an “eins, zwei, drei” count to get everyone drinking.

Of course, this was easy to do with all the free-flow food and beer. A truly “fantastisch” evening, as was said several times.

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

23

AROUND HUA HIN LABUA SHOW HOUSE GRAND OPENING PARTY On Friday October 16th, La Bua Resort & Residence held a show case night for all the local real estate partners in Hua Hin in celebration of the first completed Oslo Villa in La Bua. Over 80 people attended the show case and the positive reception of the designer villa was palpable. Food and drinks from the Italian restaurant Andreas and the live music throughout the evening added to the great atmosphere.

La Bua Resort & Residence will consist of 67 exclusive designer villas and 28 apartments in a modern design you only see very few places around Thailand.

As a part of the resort you will find 2 Laguna pools with a combined length of +220 meters, 24-hour reception, fitness center, tennis court and much more, which are some of the reasons La Bua has sold more than 40 units in less than a year.

It is clearly a Hua Hin Best Seller and we at HOT Magazine wish them continued success.

24

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

AROUND HUA HIN

CHIVA SOM WINS 3 AWARDS Twenty years since inception, ChivaSom International Health Resort, famous for retreats for well-being, has clinched three major awards in the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) category from the world’s most authoritative organisations on corporate social responsibility. These honours reflect our ongoing commitment to operating at the world’s highest social and environmental standard on all levels of operation, and the endorsements are; ‘Winner of Intel-AIM Corporate Responsibility Award’ – Asian Forum on Corporate Social Responsibility

The Asian Forum on Corporate Social Responsibility (AFCSR) is the largest annual conference on CSR in the region. It was launched in 2002 by the AIM-Ramon V. del Rosario, Sr. Center for Corporate Social Responsibility, one of the first research centers in Asia concentrating on corporate responsibility issues.

‘1st Place Sustainable Development in Tourism for Urban Accommodation’ Skål International Awards The Skål International Sustainable Tourism awards highlight best practices in tourism around the world and

place emphasis on the importance of environmental and social sustainability with community inclusion and engagement.

‘1st Place Green Spa’ - Thailand Spa & Well-being Awards The Thailand Spa & Well-being Awards, organised by the Thai Spa Association with the support of the Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Commerce, and Tourism Authority of Thailand, were established to promote and develop the spa industry in Thailand through leadership, innovation and corporate responsibility.

WEBSTER STUDENTS HELP BEAUTIFY BAAN ANG HIN SCHOOL The Rotaract Club of Webster University Thailand with students representing Webster Works Worldwide recently completed a school painting project for the students at Baan Ang Hin School. A variety of cartoon animals were painted on walls with English titles to help the children practice reading and

speaking English. The Rotaract Club visits the school twice a week to help the children learn English.

Rotaract is a service club for young men and women ages 18 to 30 who are dedicated to community and international service. Its membership totals over 184,000 in more than 8,000

clubs worldwide. Rotary International is a global community of committed professionals working together to serve others and advance peace. More than 1.2 million members in over 34,000 Rotary clubs worldwide volunteer in communities at home and abroad.

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

25

AROUND HUA HIN SUNDAY BRUNCH BROUGHT TO YOU One of the wonderful things about going into high tourist season is that the hotels roll out great promotions to entice those visiting our royal resort beach town. One of our personal favorites is the Sunday Garden BBQ Brunch at Putahracsa’s Oceanside Beach Club. Every Sunday from noon until 3pm you can enjoy Alaska King Crab, Phuket Lobster, Suckling Pig, BBQ Ribs, Foie Gras, Thai Seafood along with an uncountable number of other tasty treats.

Should you get thirst during your food fest there is free flow of sparkling wine, wine and House Cocktails. Feeling left out because your date/spouse is to busy taking “selfies”? Not to worry, you can sit back and enjoy the live music of Pamela D, famous from the Thai TV show “The Voice”.

The price is just 1,599 net and reservations are reccomended, 032 531 470.

BLACK MOUNTAIN NAMED BEST GOLF COURSE IN THAILAND When asking Golfers in Hua Hin which is the best golf course in town you usually hear only two names, Black Mountain and Banyan. At this year’s Asia Pacific Golf Summit held at the Orchid Country Club in Singapore on the 17th of October they didn’t bother with the best golf course in Hua Hin, they named Black Mountain as the Best Golf Course in Thailand and they have done so for the last five consecutive years.

Harald Elisson, Managing Director of Black Mountain was on hand to accept the award and had this to say, “I would like to extend a big thank you to

MOZZA MIA’S OPENING PARTY On Friday November 6th , Mozza Mia held a grand opening party at their new store located at the G Mall off of Soi 94.

Mozza Mia’s is the first Mozzarella Deli and Wine Bar in Hua Hin. From their own Bangkok facility, they produce gourmet Burrata Cheese. In addition to cheese they also offer cold cuts and wonderful wines. Eat in or take away, you’ll be glad you did.

26

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

everyone who took the time to vote for us this year. We have worked hard to constantly improve the course, facilities and service standards and confirm our commitment to keeping the course in top condition.”

One of the things that makes Black Mountain great is that it’s not just about golf. You can also enjoy their water park, wakeboard park, tennis and volleyball courts, their spa and they have an excellent restaurant, the best in the area.

Black Mountain has hosted several Asian Tour events including earlier this year when it played host to the inaugural Thailand Classic, a jointsanctioned European Tour and Asian Tour tournament with a record setting two million U.S. dollars in prize money.

The Thailand Classic at Black Mountain will continue thru 2017.

Again according to Harald, ““We want to make Black Mountain a truly familyfriendly destination where everyone can enjoy, relax and have quality time playing sports as well as other recreational activities while vacationing in Hua Hin.”

AROUND BANGOK SPECIAL OFFER

SIT, SIP & SHARE ATNEW METTA EATERY & BAR MAITRIA HOTEL SUHUMVIT 18 Metta Eatery & Bar, a new place for forging great friendships, is proud to open at Maitria Hotel Sukhumvit 18 – A Chatrium Collection, located in Bangkok’s upscale shopping and entertainment district. Metta means ‘happiness’ in Sanskrit and is the perfect name for this trendy stylish rendezvous.

This is the place to be, to sit back, relax, soak up the atmosphere and hang-out with friends and family as you share good times or enjoy a cozy chat, whilst indulging in Metta Eatery & Bar’s unique ambience.

Open daily from 6 a.m. -12 p.m.

Metta Eatery & Bar- everyone’s coolest place to sit, sip and share. For reservations, please call +66 (0) 2 302 5777, E: rsvn.maitria@chatrium.com or www.chatrium.com

FLOAT YOUR BOAT AT SWISSOTEL NAI LERT PARK BANGKOK

SPECIAL OFFER

Bangkok, October 2015 - Make it a memorable Loy Krathong at Swissôtel Nai Lert Park Bangkok Immerse in the enchanting spirit of Loy Krathong at Swissôtel Nai Lert Park Bangkok Hotel on Wednesday, November 25, 2015.

Celebrate the magical festival with an abundant Thai buffet served poolside in a tropical garden setting in the heart of the city.

The kitchen team has carefully crafted a special menu of regional Thai specialties and delicacies to enjoy to the sounds a live Thai band and traditional dancers will perform throughout the night.

• Adults 1,299++ inclusive of free-flow juices and soft drinks • Adults 2,299++ inclusive of free-flow Prosecco, House wine, and Beer.

• Children (aged 6-12yrs) 649++ inclusive of free-flow soft drinks and juices.

• Children under the age of 6 dine for free when accompanied by a paying adult Prices include a complimentary krathong for all diners.

Experience the beautiful festival in style at Swissôtel Nai Lert Park Bangkok.

Reservations are recommended at 02 253 0123 Email: Bangkok-nailertpark@swissotel.com Hotel Website: www.swissotel.com/hotels/bangkoknai-lert-park

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

27

ROONG REUANG COACH CO.,LTD.

SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT

ON LEVEL 1 GATE 8 DEPARTURE TIME FROM AIRPORT

07:30 09:30 11:30 13:30 15.30 17:30 19:30

VIP COACH ONLY 24 SEATS 305 BAHT/SEAT

HUA HIN BUS STATION

HUA HIN BUS STATION (SOMBAT TOUR) IS IN FRONT OF HUA HIN SOI 96/1

DEPARTURE TIME FROM HUA HIN

06:00 08:00 12:00 14:00 16.00 18:00

www.airporthuahinbus.com

Make the most of paradise Keep up to date on all the HOT Happenings in Hua Hin, Bangkok and throughout Thailand.

www.hotmagazine.website

At Hua Hin House Service we do it all leaving you the time to relax and enjoy your home. Call us now for maid service, cleaning, landscaping, air-conditioning repair and service, plumbing, pest control, electrical repairs, laundry, gardening, painting, house fixes, pool care and more.

Best price, fast service!

(+66) 081 510 51 64 info@huahin-house-service-referral.com www.huahin-house-service-referral.com

A Conversation with Khun Sukanya Poljak

30

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

31

F

ashion Designer, Model, Actress, Mother. This month HOT Magazine has the distinct pleasure of sitting down with one busy woman, Khun Sukanya Poljak. From dressing all of the contestants for Miss Malaysia 2015 to walking the red carpet of Cannes, Sukanya shares with us her non-stop lifestyle and how it all began.

HOT Magazine: Can you tell us a little about yourself, where were you born and what was your upbringing like?

Sukanya Poljak: Many people ask me am I Brazilian, but I am always happy and proud to point out that I am a Thai lady. I was born in the beautiful and spicy south of Thailand - Surathani.

Family, food, and friends have always been the foundation and focus in my life. Fashion became the fourth F pillar in my life. Coming from a modest background, I learned the value of hard work, pursuing your dreams, and never giving-up. My successful career has consequently enabled me to travel all around the world but Thailand always stayed at the center of my heart.

HOT Magazine: In what city do you presently live and can you tell us about your family?

Sukanya Poljak: After many years of an interesting life abroad in Singapore, four years ago I decided to come back to my home country Thailand and the vibrant, colorful, and dynamic life in Bangkok. It’s a truly magnificent city that has brought me success, but even more importantly – love and happiness.

Needless to say, starting your own family is probably the hardest, yet most rewarding thing we can do in our lives.

Five years ago I made this giant leap, and since then my family has been my rock, inspiration and endless source of strength. Proud to say that I am a mom of a happy five year old boy Leonardo, and enjoying every second of this amazing lifelong journey with my family.

HOT Magazine: You are an actress, a model and a fashion designer, in what order did you take on these different careers?

Sukanya Poljak: I would first like to point out that we women are known to embody range of talents. You could say that every woman is to some degree

32

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

a part time designer, model, and an actress. I was the lucky one that got to do it more and to make it my profession.

Understandably, first and foremost, I am a proud mother to a wonderful five-year-old boy. But my life has always been about individuality. In the past couple of years, I have found that fashion is the most exciting gateway for my ideas. To be different you need to be confident, and to be confident you need to have something unique to say to the world - I believe you can do it through your wardrobe. ZuZa is all about self-expression, helping fashion forward-thinking woman around the world express themselves and take the center stage. I have been there through modelling and acting, and I’m using that experience to make a statement that others can relate to - through sensual and elegant ready to wear designs.

HOT Magazine: As a teenager growing up, did you always know what you wanted to do or did these different career paths just present themselves?

Sukanya Poljak: I believe it’s a little bit of both. I’ve always known what I wanted to do - express myself. So the question presented itself, how do you follow that? As it turns out, it doesn’t have to be one channel, but a multitude of them. This is precisely why we, at ZuZa, ask a questions “What is your Dream?” One of my other hidden dreams was to learn how to paint. It started 10 years ago in Singapore and opened a door to visual expression. It was painting, colors, shapes, and visual stories that led me to fashion and ZuZa.

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

33

HOT Magazine: Do you define yourself by all three or would you say you are primarily a fashion designer who also acts and models?

Sukanya Poljak: In a modern age, a woman has to take a lot of roles. I believe a woman today is always short on time, but never short on ideas to share with the world. I am no different in that respect and I equally enjoy all three roles. Acting and modelling has helped me express my individuality, while fashion has given me voice to share what I have learned and experienced. This is precisely why ZuZa dresses are ideal for a confident woman that is looking for an elegant and sensual dress to express herself. She is sophisticated, elegant, yet playful. I want to help a lady express herself in a way that will not only get her noticed, but remembered. Dresses tailored so you fit in, but stand out.

HOT Magazine: How do you divide your time between the three?

Sukanya Poljak: It’s quite easy.

You just make a day have 50 hours!

Just kidding. I am known for being a workaholic and obsessed with perfection, so for me it was never about time. You may be at the Cannes Film Festival enjoying the red carpet experience, dressing celebrities and dignitaries, or dressing Miss Singapore, Miss Universe or perhaps even the whole Miss Malaysia pageant, but at the heart of it all is passion and dedication. You have to love what you do. It consumes you and gives you wings to express yourself. Let time take its course, find your talent and nurture it, and it will take you many amazing places.

HOT Magazine: You have your own clothes line called ZuZa fashion, where does the inspiration come from for the clothes you design.

Sukanya Poljak: The world of fashion is changing fast, and the only rule is that there are no rules. Keeping that in mind, I am always on the lookout for new, fresh and different materials, but the deciding factor for me is always that materials have to be of the highest quality and made to last. I love to travel, and this is

34

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

one of the ways I discover new materials, but it is also a way I seek inspiration. The world is booming with color, forms and silhouettes, and they are all constantly feeding my creativity. Inspiration for my last collection came from a trip around passionate, colorful, and sensual Spain.

HOT Magazine: You were picked to be the official clothes designer for Miss World Singapore and Miss Universe Malaysia. That is quite an honor, tell us about it?

Sukanya Poljak: I love doing custom “one of a kind” designs as it provides me with an opportunity to tailor the piece to the unique character of the person.

I had a wonderful time designing a custom piece for Miss Singapore 2013 Maria-Anna Zenieris. I have been truly impressed by both the beauty and character of Maria-Anna. She is giving, sophisticated and confident. After a joint brainstorm, we opted for an elegant and sensual ravishing gown, as it projects a confident woman and made it in her favorite rouge color. Seeing confident women in elegant and sensual ZuZa is what gives me energy to keep working very hard and creating new designs. So when the opportunity presented itself to not only judge, but also dress all the contestants of Miss Malaysia 2015 in stunning, show stopping new designs, I literally jumped for joy. I love sharing these positive ZuZa values that shine through at every level, from custom tailoring and handcrafted details to the made-to-last quality. All the clothes are made in small quantity to guarantee exclusivity and are a perfect match for these kinds of special events that require not only a strong brand, but a special story as well.

marriage of art and fashion that is driven by love. It was such an honor to work with an esteemed artist and gentleman like Manuel Carrera and to partner ZuZa fashion with top jewelry in the world.

I am indebted for life for having the opportunity to work and share a stage with such a brilliant and era defining man. Truly an honor.

my international film “Cargo”. It was a chance to reunite with our cast and see friends from around the world. One thing in Cannes is that you never stop, from the moment you wake-up to the evening events and gala dinners. The difference is even-though you are very, very busy, because you really enjoy it, you never really feel tired.

HOT Magazine: You were at this year’s Cannes Film Festival and walked the red carpet. Can you tell us why you were there and what was it like to be at the world’s most famous film festival?

HOT Magazine: Khun Sukanya, thank you for taking time from you very busy schedule to be with us.

Sukanya Poljak: Walking down a Cannes Film Festival red carpet makes a girl feel like a princess. I was invited to the Cannes Film Festival to promote

To view Khun Sukanya’s Zuza Fashions, visit her website www. zuzufashion.com.

HOT Magazine: You were asked to provide the clothes for a big jewelry fashion show, how did that come about?

Sukanya Poljak: Many top celebrities from Taylor Swift to Jennifer Lopez to Madonna wear Carrera y Carrera jewelry. It was a dream come true to partner with founder Manuel Carrera and help him represent his stunning luxury jewelry. Both Mr. Carrera and his lovely wife represent the beautiful

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

35

Power of Love Children’s Home Visit our children’s home in Soi CJ Express Supermarket at Kao Takiab, Hua Hin, Thailand

Church Services:

Sunday’s: The Hilton Hotel at 10:00 am

@Power of Love International Church @Power of Love Organisation

www.facebook/homdeehuahin railroad

Hom Dee Soap

Narawan Hotel

Phetkasem Rd.

Email: offices@thaipolic.com Tel: English 080 999 3603, Thai 090 415 5161

A New Era Opens in Hua Hin for Tennis Lovers

By Norman Stacey

I

t’s Game, Set & Match! Hua Hin’s spanking new World-Class Tennis facility marks the launching of a major international draw-card.

In a close-run finish, the impressive Centennial Club Tennis complex was officially opened on October 31st. First up in a string of scheduled events is the Association of Tennis Professional’s (ATP) Challenger Tour Series, The Hua Hin Open.

38

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

Internationally-ranked, Tennis Professionals from Thailand and 12 other nations, descended on Hua Hin November 2 – 8, to initiate the facility and to compete for the Hua Hin Open’s, US$125,000 in prize-money. The inaugural tennis event was sponsored

by Energy Absolute and Singha Corp.

Action was dual Singles and Doubles Tournaments, with simultaneous matches on up to 3 courts. The 32 Players

in the Singles, many overlapping with a similar number in Doubles, battled through Main Draws, Quarter and Semi-finals as the week unfolded.

Championship deciders will be over the weekend.

Players from Italy, Estonia, Russia and USA described the new Hua Hin Centennial Club’s Tennis complex as ‘impressive’, and ‘World Class’. The Centre-Court’s hard; plexicushion

surface is described by players as ‘extremely fast’, and without the subtleties of bounce characterizing older facilities. The handily located complex will eventually have 11 courts, in addition to the Centre Court with will host permanent seating for about 1,000 spectators. Action on the courts is supported by air-conditioned training facilities, practice and changing-rooms, player, administration and media rooms,

and by free shuttle buses to and from the Intercontinental Hotel.

The E@ Hua Hin Open also marked the opening of an on-site bar and restaurant, ‘Maria’s’ [as in Sharapova]. This glass and steel, ground-floor expanse includes real-time CCTV coverage, ensuring tennis aficionados miss none of the action, whilst partaking in a Thai and Western menu, or enjoying the sponsor’s product – and all at refreshingly

reasonable prices.

Next up and starting next week is the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA – 125 Series) Tournament, November 9th through 15th. Many more events are scheduled or planned, The Centennial Club (Tennis Courts), facility has put Hua Hin firmly on the world tennis scene.

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

39

Centennial Club Another Jewel in our Crown

40 InterContinental Hin Resort Spa November 15Hua - December 15 & , 2015

T

he brand new Centennial Sports Club made its debut to the public on November 2nd with the start of the ATP Challenger tennis tournament and once again we have Hua Hin’s biggest booster’s, the Liptapanlop family, to thank for it.

At a press conference held on the Friday before, Khun Suwat Liptapanlop promoted the upcoming tennis tournament and gave the press a tour of his new state of the art sports facility.

The almost completed Centennial Sports Complex sits on over 40 rai of land and consists of 11 tennis courts, with one being a sunken tournament court seating 1,000. There are two full size football pitch’s, a gymnasium, a fitness center on the 3rd and 4th floors outfitted with top of the line cardio and weight equipment, lockers, steam rooms, a VIP players lounge, a media center, a top-notch restaurant, a sports bar and a 26-meter rooftop swimming pool where food and drinks are served. As of press date, memberships will go on sale in December.

The Liptapanlop family, headed by Charaspim Liptapanlop, Chairperson of Proud Real Estate Co.Ltd., also own and manage the Hua Hin InterContinental Resort & Spa. Since opening the InterContinental in 2010 with a party that featured Canadian singing great Paul Anka, The InterContinental went on to host the Hua Hin International Film Festival which drew many international celebrities including American film actor Ryan Gosling.

For the last eight years, Khun Suwat has been President of the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand, so it’s no wonder that the InterContinental Resort has been the main sponsor for the Hua Hin World Tennis Invitational. This yearly tournament or exhibition match takes place in late December bringing top world ranked players to Hua Hin like Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, Victoria Azarenka, Li Na, Kim Clijsters, Caroline Wozniaki along with many others. The men have also come to town such as Novak Djokovic, Tomas Berdych and Rafael Nadal.

The InterContinental is also the host for the yearly Asian Beach Polo Championship, the only Professional Polo event played on a beach. They were also a big sponsor of last years King’s Cup Golf tournament at Black Mountain which offered a record prize purse of one million U.S. dollars attracting both Asian and European PGA players and they were instrumental in bringing Thai Fight Night to Hua Hin. In fact, at almost every big event in Hua Hin you will find the InterContinental involved in some way.

Khun Suwat with Ryan Gosling

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

41

Khun Suwat with Victoria Azarenka & Serena Williams

42

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

Khun Proudputh Liptapanlop

In a 2014 Interview with HOT Magazine, Khun Suwat articulated “currently when people think of places to visit in Thailand they think of Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket & Koh Samui. Each of these destinations have distinctly different characteristics.

If we want Hua Hin to be included in the above list, then we must improve and develop it so it becomes distinctive as well.

After all, Hua Hin has beautiful beaches, unique architecture, 10 golf courses and hosts many popular events, both local and international”.

The Liptapanlop family’s Proud Real Estate Company is certainly doing their best to shape Hua Hin with exciting and different charachteristics and they continue to do so.

In December 2014 the Liptapanlop family’s Proud Real Estate company opened their one billion baht Vana Nava water park in Hua Hin. Asia’s first Water Jungle, Vana Nava quickly became one of the town’s top attractions and has been wildly successful.

Next year, Proud Real Estate along with Bangkok’s Mall Group are set to open the 4 billion baht BluPort Hua Hin Resort Mall. Currently under construction, Blue Port boasts an impressive 140,000 square meters of space, with 25,000 sqm allocated equally to international retail shops, a department store, gourmet market, and a world class cinema complex. The BluPort Mall will be attached to the new wing of the InterContinental Resort which is opening next month. The InterCon’s new wing will have a ballroom allowing for elegant weddings as well as large parties and business gatherings.

In a 2013 interview HOT Magazine conducted with Khun Suwat’s daughter, Khun Proudputh Liptapanlop, Managing Director of Proud Real Estate, she discussed amongst other things their future planned hotel and condominium project that will be part of Vana Nava.

“The hotel and the residences are phase ll and lll of the entire development. Like our other developments, we will aim to exceed all expectations and create something intrinsically different to what is already in the market place”.

With the opening of the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort and all of the big events they sponsor and support, the billion baht Vana Nava Water Jungle, the new state of the art Centennial Sports Complex and the upcoming BluPort Resort shopping mall, Hua Hin just gets better and better as a place to live and a destination to holiday and we have Hua Hin’s biggest boosters, the Liptapanlop family to thank for it.

InterContinental’s new wing

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

43

NOTHING FEELS AS GOOD AS BEING SLIMher

So It’s time to get in Shape!!

30” Mins ONLY . HIIT* CIRCUIT TRAINING . NUTRITION . STRETCHING *HIIT stand for High Intensity Interval Training

GHua Hin Mall Soi94/2nd Floor - www.slimherhuahin.com - 032 900 529 - slimherhuahin@gmail.com

Luxury Living & Exclusive Lifestyle

6,000 COPIES EVERY MONTH! Why Advertise with HOT Magazine ?

That’s like asking “Why Succeed?”

Contact us today at info@hothuahin.com HOT Magazine is now printing 6,000 copies monthly with 5,000 copies distributed in Hua Hin & 1,000 copies distributed to high income areas of Bangkok.

www.the-met.asia

Thailand’s Polo and Equestrian Club

W

hen you think of Thailand, Polo and Equestrian Sports don’t readily come to mind, but they should. In 2005 the Thai Polo and Equestrian Club opened with an outstanding facility that has made Thailand an international centre for equestrian & polo in Southeast Asia.

Set on more than 2,000 rai (or about

48

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

250 hectares) of picturesque grounds to the east of Pattaya and just a 90-minute drive from the capital, Bangkok, the Thai Polo & Equestrian Club is arguably the most unique facility of its kind in all of Asia.

Boasting three full-sized, internationalstandard polo playing fields as well as two practice grounds, and stabling for more than 250 horses, the Thai

Polo & Equestrian Club was initially called, simply, the Thai Polo Club. This changed a few years after opening when equestrian facilities were added to the mix.

The brainchild of polo enthusiasts Harald Link (President of the Southeast Asian Equestrian Federation) and Mrs Nunthinee Tanner, considered the first female polo player in Thailand.

The number of enthusiasts have grown steadily since the clubs opening and they now have around 80 horses available for members and guests.

The clubhouses were designed by Nunthinee Tanner, while the Chukka Bar is an exact replica of the famed polo bar in the Langham Hotel in London.

In 2007, renowned Australian designer Wayne Copping was given the task of

establishing an international standard cross-country course which would be suitable as a venue for international events, such as the Southeast Asian Games.

An eventing course was designed by New Zealander John Nicholson, and this was used to host the inaugural Asia Eventing Championships.

With the addition of an endurance

course and an international Derby facility, the club is now recognized as the largest multi-functional polo and equestrian operation in all Asia.

The veterinary and quarantine facilities are second-to-none in the region, with a leading Argentinian vet acting as general manager of the complex, overseeing Argentinian, French and British as well as local farriers, trainers, and stable staff.

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

49

Over the years the club has attracted many local and international players.

The Thai Polo Open, sponsored jointly

by BMW and the B. Grimm company takes place every January and attracts between six and eight teams. Other big tournaments include the Princess’s Cup Thai Polo Open every January and the Queen’s Cup Pink Polo tournament for the ladies. Every year in April the Thai Polo Club’s players decend on Hua Hin for the Princess Pa’s Asian Beach Polo Championship played on the beach in front of the InterContinental Hotel.

The noted American-based polo coach Rege Ludwig hosts a polo school at the club. His clinics cater to all skill levels and age groups. Rege Ludwig spends more than six months a year at the club, imparting his renowned knowledge to a new generation of polo enthusiasts.

In addition to its monthly tournaments, the Club is part of a unique polo league of Thai, Malaysian and Singaporean clubs, with each club taking turns to host a round-robin. Thailand’s polo season runs from November to April. Equestrian season runs almost all year round.

On October 15 to the 18th at the Thai Polo and Equestrian Club the the King’s Cup Thailand Championship 2015 took place. The Thailand Equestrian Federation together with the Thai Polo and Equestrian Club, Pattaya led by Mr. Harald Link and Mrs.Nunthinee Tanner hosted the prestigious event.

The annual crowd pleaser attracted more than 200 riders and 500 spectators.

The 3-day competition inclued 6 disciplines; Dressage, Jumping, Eventing, Endurance, Reining and the newest discipline Barrel Racing.

The King’s Cup Winners included; Dhewin Manathanya for Show Jumping, Cunaporn Wattanasarn for Dresaage, Arinadtha Chavatanont for Eventing and Prutirat R. Serireongrith for Endurance.

50

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

L et’s Go Sa Keaw

I

f there is one thing Thailand doesn’t lack at all, it is its destinations and sight-seeing opportunities. This month HOT Magazine has focused on a province full of wonderful places to visit with a marvellous and well established tradition in the eastern part of Thailand. Sa Kaeo is one province that combines a multitude of diverse places, both modern and historical, which attract those who are curious enough to find out about this province. If you are one of them, then definitely do read on.

Let us begin as always with some background on the province. Sa Kaeo’s seal displays a rising sun over the beauty

52

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

of the Prasart Kao Noi Si Chompoo, which is an important Khmer temple.

The province’s motto is “The frontier of the east, beautiful forests and splendid waterfalls, plenty of ancient civilisations, and the commercial venue between Thailand and Cambodia.”

We’ll find veracity to this description in the following paragraphs: Sa Kaeo actually happens to be one of the youngest provinces of the kingdom of Thailand, having been so for hardly over twenty two years now, a change that occurred when the other five districts of Wathana Nakhon, Wang Nam Yen, Aranya Prathet, Khlong Hat and Ta Phraya were along with it,

granted status as a province. Bordered

by Nakhon Ratchasima, Chachoengsao, Chanthaburi, Buriram and Prachinburi, Sa Kaeo is one of Thailand’s borders with the Kingdom of Cambodia and has a fair amount of Khmer speaking people who inhabit the neighbouring areas. Sa Kaeo’s northern part is a lush mountain range called Sankamphaeng, of green ebullient forest, with large quantities of wildlife.

It also hosts a fraction of the famous Dangrek Mountains, rich in sandstone and evergreen forests which form the country’s natural boundaries.

The south however is a different story altogether, characterised by its

deforested Cardamom Mountains. These are given their name because cardamom and pepper grow there naturally and are to date used for commercial use. The mountains are also fascinatingly famous due to the fact that they contain roughhewn log coffins which are rumoured to have belonged to past Cambodian royalties. These are said to be from the fifteenth century, during which ceramic jars were set along dispersed edges of the mountains. The place is equally infamous for being the hiding place of many Khmer Rouge militants who would flee to seek shelter there after the Vietnamese forces drove them out. The Cardamom Mountains have only appealed to

tourism recently, so if you’re looking to visit and do not want to be faced with swarms of people, it’s the ideal place to go.

We also encounter two national parks in Sa Kaeo, the purpose of which is to keep an eye on the rainforests. The first one is called Pang Sida and has been part of Sa Kaeo for longer than the latter has actually been a province! Their initiative was to remain a large sanctuary for its wildlife and diverse flora. It is thus categorised as a UNESCO heritage site.

Amongst the species one can visit there is the critically endangered Siamese crocodile, as well as the white elephant,

the leopard, the white handed gibbon and the Malayan sun bear. It is well worth it to pay the two hundred baht entrance fee at the gate, something that more than pays for the excellent variety of both plants and species that one can find there. The other national park in the area is Ta Phraya. This place is primarily known for its incredibly special formations of rock called “Lalu”. A Lalu formation is an erected development of eroded rocks that are developed through erosion and weathering. The park’s history is equally impressive: prior to its founding in 1993, the area housed a refugee camp for Cambodian escapees from Pol Pot’s criminal regime. The park

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

53

includes wildlife as diverse as the common muntjac, the sambar deer, the langur monkey, the palm civet as well as the fishing cat and the banteng.

But beyond geographical tourism, Sa Kaeo has a number of activities to offer which are sure to attract the attention of many holidaymakers. We begin by the temple stamped in the province’s motto. The Prasart Kao Noi Si Chompoo is one Sa Kaeo most important sites, as it attracts a considerable quantity of visitors and of followers. The place is believed to have originated as a Hindu shrine. It is divided in three brick constructions separated by the northern prang, the central prang and the southern wihan. These are of course ruins and the sole one to remain in a more or less integral condition is the central one, while the others on the northern and southern faces only have their bases left.

Another attractive site of Sa Kaeo is the Wat Nakhon Tham, a compound within which attractive sights lay such as the Luangpho Khao, comprising of the lime statue of an ancient Buddha sitting cross legged. The Prasat Baan Noi is equally interesting, as it is subdivided into three southern, northern and central rooms, within which lie constructions made out of laterite. If you would prefer to see monuments however say no more! The King Naresuan the Great’s statue is a wonderful attraction which to visit, as it has a symbolic element to it: the statue lies in Sa Kaeo because the district where it lies was part of the area in which the illustrious monarch resided and led his heroic battles in the past.

54

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

But Sa Kaeo is also an important hub for markets and traditional shopping, especially since it lies neighbour to Cambodia, with whom trade is an essential part of the local culture. The proof of this is the Talat Chaidaen Baan Khlong Luek, also known as the Talat Rong Kluea. This market found right in the frontier is a place in which exchanges with Cambodian merchants take place on a daily basis and in which products from across the border can be purchased with ease. These include ceramics, products made of brass, glazed products as well as clothes, crockery or food products such as dried fish and even imports from places such as Russia in the form of electrical appliances.

Having mentioned food products, Sa Kaeo bears one of the most delicious cantaloupes found in the country, distinguished by its sweetness and the delicacy of its crispy texture. Another thing Sa Kaeo is famous for is its I Koi Wine. This is a Thai herbal wine that is characterised for the use of I Koi grapes grown in the wild. Only ripened grapes are fit for consumption, as otherwise they have a sour taste. These fruits are characterised for their high concentration of vitamin C and the wine they produce, for its richness.

Sa Kaeo has a number of entertaining festivals that any holiday maker cannot afford to miss if he is to gain the full swing of the province’s culture. The most delicious one is that of Cantaloupe Day, during which Every April, in front of the Aranyaprathet District Office, a fair is held in veneration of Sa Kaeo most flavourful fruit. Beauty contests, agricultural product competitions and much more goes on during this festival.

Another wonderful festival that takes place is that of Dok Kaeo Blooming Day, in which spectacles of singing, dancing and mixed media contests liven up the occasion. Similar to this is the Eastern Cultural Fair, in which every mid-February there are exhibitions of Sa Kaeo’s cultural heritage along with many other activities such as singing contests and entertainment booths.

Overall it is easy to see why Sa Kaeo is a wonderful province to visit if you plan to go on holiday any time soon. Many of the things one can take part in or places one can visit were described in these lines, but there is so much more to do that it would have taken an extra issue to describe it all! Be sure to venture into this geographically and culturally rich place, you will not leave disappointed.

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

55

EVENT

Electric Mango throws the biggest and best events in Hua Hin, but we also offer our premises to any type of event, such as birthdays, marriages and celebrations.

For more information and bookings, please send an email to: events@electricmango.club

STEAK

VENUE

Looking for the perfect place to have your party?

We already know that we have the best place in town, but we let the reviews do the speaking for us

“The best steak I've had “If you miss this, it's only in Thailand so far” yourself to blame” “Excellent quality steaks and nice setting!”

“A must visit”

HOUSE

Electric Mango

Hua Hin Soi 112 www.electricmango.club info@electricmango.club Restaurant: 098 510 5393 Hotel: 032 510 400

FROM 2995 2495 หัวหิน

Hua Hin Soi 112

RESORT

BUNGALOW / night

L et’s Stay, Bangkok

HOT MAGAZINE RECOMMEND

Swissotel Nai Lert Park

58

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

L

ert Sreshthaputa, also known as Nai Lert was born in 1872 and was known as Thailand’s first and foremost developer, investor as well as preserver of Bangkok’s environment. He was royally bestowed the title “Beloved Millionaire” by King Rama VI and became known as Phraya Bhakdi Norase.

In the year 1894, at the age of 22, Nai Lert started an imported goods business called Nai Lert Store and among other products offered the first ice to be made in Thailand.

The distinguished Scholar Phraya Anuman Rajdhon would later on describe the exciting novelty of ice as “Most people who had never seen it refused to believe that there was such a thing as frozen water. Ice had to be put on a tray and exhibited for the people to see at a museum, some people even asked to take small cubes of ice for those at home to see.

Though Nai Lert continued to make his headquarters near the original shop, he soon expanded into other businesses. One was a guesthouse called the Hotel de la Paix thereby creating the first hotel property of the family business. Nai Lert also expanded his business into a transportation and real estate empire. He introduced the first bus services in Thailand in 1907 to serve Bangkok commuters and later expanded the business into the first taxi service using imported cars Nai Lert was also at the origin of the development of the Ploenchit area where he acquired a large piece of land in 1915 and created one of the first developments in Bangkok by master planning the area and selling off parts of the land as individual plots including the existing British Embassy site on Ploenchit which was sold to the British Government in 1922. Nai Lert also built the tallest commercial building in Bangkok in 1927.

A few months after the end of World War II, Nai Lert died leaving his business empire to his wife and his only descendant, his daughter Thanpuying Lursakdi Sampatisiri. His legacy included a real estate and hotel group operating several office buildings, retail centers and a hotel in Bangkok, the Swissotel Nai Lert Park.

It was at Nai Lert’s 5-star Swissotel Nai Lert Park where we recently had the pleasure of staying for several days.

The distinctive low-rise hotel is ensconed in 3.2 acres of lush tropical surroundings and is part of Khun Nai Lert’s original Ploenchit development.

With legendary Swiss efficiency coupled with wellrenowned Thai hospitality we were trulypampered beginning the moment we walked thru their doors. The hotel boasts 336 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites, all with balconies and ranging in size from 36 square meters to 206 square meters for their Royal and Presidential Suite.

We booked into their 80 square meter Alcove Suite that was very spacious and comfortably appointed. The lounge and the separate en-suite bedroom were about equal in size and both had deck’s looking over the garden. A stateof-the-art entertainment system and in-room business technology made our stay both relaxing and productive.

The Alcove Suite includes access to their Swiss Executive Club Lounge which offered Coffee, tea and soft drinks throughout the day and lunchtime snacks. The eveining cocktails and snacks lasted two hours and drinks included cocktails, wine or beer.

The hotel has several restaurants and a coffee shop bakery. ISO is their international restaurant where daily breakfast is served.

ISO’s beating heart is its long and varied buffet line and nearby islands. The appetizing course is punctuated by several live cooking stations that vary in their focus

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

59

from day to day. All centred around the restaurant’s main theatre kitchen and service points. Conceived, designed and executed in such a way as to optimise each individual’s dining pleasure, ISO is complemented by an international team of passionate chefs whose specialties range from Thai palace and street-style classics to iconic Swiss dishes with everything in between: sumptuous seafood, succulent grills and roasts, creative salads and antipastos, Chinese and Japanese delicacies, and divine desserts. Add to this typically Thai, gentle yet attentive service, and it is no wonder that ISO holds a unique status in the hearts of knowing locals and travellers alike.

Sunday Brunch is served from 12:00 – 15:00 hrs and offers guests the opportunity to enjoy special alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks packages with their meal.

International buffet dinners are served Sundays to Fridays from 18:00 – 22:00 hrs while an decadent barbecue that makes use of the garden on Saturdays is served from 18:00-22:00 hrs.

Located on the Ground Floor of Swissôtel Nai Lert Park you’ll find their Noble House Restaurant which offers authentic Chinese fine dining. Lunches are filled with definitive dim sum presentations added with varying soups, rice and noodle dishes and other specialties, with an extra extravagant presentation every Saturday. Evenings invite diners to explore subtle and sumptuous flavors selected for their intrinsic culinary value and perennial popularity accessibly arranged on a comprehensive a la carte menu.

Within the hotel you will find the Amrita Fitness

60

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

and Health Cente which offers state-of-the-art fitness equipment with individual televisions and personal trainers on hand to assist you. Aerobics and yoga sessions are available as well as competition-standard tennis courts, an indoor squash court. Steam rooms and saunas.

Signature treatments are also available from their spa.

Swissotel Nai Lert Park is one of Thailand’s leading business hotels, with state-of-the-art meeting and conference facilities. The hotel offers endless options for events of every description. A total of 10 meeting and conference rooms on the ground and lobby floors provide 17,150 m2 of prime meeting space. With magnificent views of the garden, the 652-sqm ballroom is the ultimate choice for any celebration, seating up to 800 people. The event management team is on hand to assist with room selection, layout and services.

Nai Lert Park is easy walking distance to Central’s Embassy shopping mall and the the Ploenchit BTS station.

Swiss effeciency and Thai hospitality, a great combination and one you should experience on your next trip to Bangkok.

Swissotel Nai Lert Park 2 Wireless Road, Bangkok +66 (0)2 253 0123 Bangkok-nailertpark@swissotel.com

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

61

THE FUN STARTS HERE!

www.inspire-emagazine.com The best events and offers from Bangkok, Pattaya, Hua Hin to Phuket & Krabi Download the Free Inspire App search 'inspire thailand'

inspirepattaya.com | inspirebangkok.com | inspirehuahin.com | inspirephuketkrabi.com inspirepattaya.ru | dan@choicegroupasia.com | Tel: 038 250 030

Miss Grand International

Photo by Sunya Yamaka

64

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

L

ike every year, one of the most prestigious beauty pageant contests in the world took place this past October. Miss Grand International is aiming to become the most distinct competition and given last month’s report card, it very well could. The competition took place over the space of a week in Bangkok and featured a number of entertaining events.

Miss Grand International was done under the support of the Motto “Stop the War and Violence” which speaks of the nature which it embodies when it comes to supporting a cause.

Miss Grand International is hardly a pageant show like any other: through a strong advocacy for important moral values such as the reduction of violence, the care of the environment we leave to our future generations and the improvement of life quality for people around the world, it is a wonderful stage through which to raise the awareness and thought that at times these shows are accused of lacking.

In fact, the logo of the event itself has to do with the advocacy for a better world. Miss Grand International’s Lady Torch is a figure that holds a lit torch in its right hand, firmly and high, something symbolic which entails there being peace under a singular shining light in the future.

The body represents the beauty of the winner and collectively it represents that along with everybody else, it is winner of this contest that should be upholding the symbolism of nonviolence.

This year’s competition featured yet another the winner from Latin America. This time it was Anea Garcia from the Dominican Republic who secured she title after the edged out her Australian competitors.

Overall the event was a wonderful success and everybody awaits next year’s edition with great anticipation.

If it is anything like this years, it should be a wonderful one.

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

65

FIND YOUR COPY

Luxury Living & Exclusive Lifestyle

OF HOT MAGAZINE HERE Admiral Hua HIn Amazon Café@ Market Village Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa Anantasila Villas Aree’s House Avis Baan Laksasubha Baguette Bangkok Hospital Banyan Golf Banyan Resort BeachCafe Black Canyon@ Market Village Black Mountain Brasserie Cafelito Cap Nidhra Carlo Centara Grand Beach Resort Century 21

Chevrolet Showroom Chub Cheeva Coco 51 Coco Beach Club Coffe Club Colonade Mall Cool Breeze Da Mario Devasom Dusit Thani Hua Hin Hotel Evason Hua Hin Fat Cat Ford Showroom Frida G Hua Hin Grand Hotel Great American Rib Hagi Ham and Bacon Hilton Hua Hin Resort and Spa HK Kitchen Hot Property Hua Hin Golf Villas Hua Hin Property Hua Hin Bakery

Hyatt Regency Hua Hin Ibis Hotel Immigration Café InterContinental Hua Hin Resort Jail house La Grappa La Pailotte Le Bistro Le Petit Café Le Bar La Rumba @Lectic Lets Sea Beach Resort Ley Café Living Room Lost Café Mamma Mia Marrakesh Hua Hin Market Café Mazda Showroom Mekong Café Mercedes Benz Showroom

Mitsubishi Showroom Molina Mr. Dan Munich Wine Shop Niranlada, Chivasom Novotel Hua Hin Papa John Plus Property Pony Café ProCut@ Market Village Putahrasa Hua HIn Rain-Sansiri Regent Cha Am Regent Chalet Rest Detail Rocco Indian Retaurant San Paolo Hospital Sheraton-Hua Hin Resort & Spa Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas Siam Consulting Springfield @Sea Starbucks @Clock Tower

Starbucks@Market Village Suvarnabum Airport Buss SWEA Bakery Swensen @Clock Tower Teracce 90 ThaiVisa Lounge The Lapa The Old Buffalo Tom & Ton Caffe Tourist information@ Clock Tower True Coffee V Villas Villa Market Villa Marroc Whale Studio Wilaiwan Worabura Hua Hin Resort & Spa YaiYa Resort and Spa Hua Hin And more...

Follow us on facebook for more pictures and upcoming events facebook.com/HotMagazineHuahinBangkok

Large Hua Hin Hamlet 3 4 bed/bath double wall home with great guest quarters. Furnished. Two Salas.

Living 425 SM, lot 700 SM. Expensively decorated. 28 expensive upgrade extras Have all receipts. Price: 12.5 MB. Moving back to USA part time.

Tel: Eng 0860639364 Thai: 0816519909

GREEK TAVERNA e only Greek Restaurant in Hua Hin

ri am

lley A n a h Praep

resd Na

5

Soi 5

ey All

GREEK TAVERNA

7

Soi 5

Authentic Greek Food Nice Atmosphere Affordable prices Wide selection

Adress: 58 Naresdamri Road, Hua Hin www.facebook.com/greektavernahuahin Tel: 098-463-3622

L et’s Check in

HOT MAGAZINE RECOMMEND

Venice Di Iris Bangkok

H

ave you ever wanted to go to Venice without ever having to leave all the comforts of Thai life? If you’ve had such dreams, rest assured that dreams do come true, and that Bangkok is one of the places in which this could happen. A reproduction of Venice in Bangkok has been created in the Vacharapol (also spelled Wacharapol) area, out past the Raminthra region of

68

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

the city. This wonderfully decorated place aims to provide the visitor with the most enthralling experience possible, giving you a Florentine taste of Italy without even having to step onto a plane.

The Venice Di Iris has been built to portray Italian houses and condominiums, with the charm if its architecture in the design of its offices, avenues, and water entertainments for

both locals and tourists.

The channels are the most eye catching feature to the visitor, as one sees them meandering across the sections of the plaza. Venice Di Iris offers not only Shopping Malls, but equally provides the visitor with exquisite restaurants and all sorts of entertainment. It is an easy way in which to access all the necessities one may be in need of without having to

wreck your patience with the traffic areas of Bangkok city during peak hours.

Venice Di Iris is a unique location that invites its visitors to experience the relaxation of a special date, to have a pleasant meal in the restaurants and accommodation in the compound ideal for couples in their honeymoon or in the lookout for some romance.

Walking the streets of Venice Di Iris or taking a boat, alongside the canals, art lovers can appreciate the reproduction of many Venetian treasures such as the Campanario di San Marco, the Rialto Bridge and many other architectural delights. Venice Di Iris also includes a Pavilion designed and inspired by the nations participating in Expo Milano 2015, something that was a main

attraction when it opened its doors to the public on the twenty fifth of April 25 during “Participants’ Weekend�, What makes the design of all pavilions in Bangkok an authentic piece of art however, is the reproduction of locally combined elements in the project.

The phenomenon is an authentic innovation because, in addition to the

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

69

fusion of peculiar Thai-Venetian architecture, there is a reproduction of the floating market on these man made canal waterways. Curiously, these are present in both countries: Italy and Thailand, and allows one to recall the authenticity and similarity of both nations. It is important after all to remember that because of the similitude between both sites, Bangkok is also known as “the Venice of the Orient”. Thus the Venice Di Iris is not at all dry.

The Venice Di Iris is definitely a place that everybody is encouraged to visit if they ever find themselves at a loose end in Bangkok or if they really wish to commemorate the construction of a stylish concept based on the best of both Venice’s romanticism and Bangkok’s charm.

70

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

71

Hua Hin & Cha Am’s property market continues to heat up

By Russ Downing

H

ua Hin & Cha Am’s Condominum market continues to be red hot and the fire will be further fueled by the government’s newly announced property stimulus measures.

Khun Poomipak Julmanichoti, managing director of Plus Property, the real estate agency arm of Sansiri PLC was recently quoted as saying “The market

74

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

for completed condominium units in the holiday areas of Hua Hin and Cha Am still has plenty of growth potential thanks to tourism promotion measures, which will drive foreign investors to make a purchasing decision more quickly” According to Plus Property’s latest survey, they found strong demand for the 17,381 finished condominium units

available for sale (as of September) in the two resort areas.

Looking specically at 30 projects in Hua Hin and Cha Am, there were 12,664 finished units or 73% of the total available in the two resort city’s, while the take-up rate is as high as 89% or 11,318 units. Compared with the same period last year, supply and demand have increased by 145% and 162%,

LaBua, Villa Oslo

respectively, for finished units.

Khun Poomipak went on to say, “stimulus measures such as loans through the GH Bank and other financial institutions have led to new promotional offers that will inject more cash flow into the market, boost consumer purchasing power and maintain the energetic air in these tourism hotspots.”

“The rising popularity of completed condominium units has brought down the available supply in Hua Hin and Cha-am to just 11%. With few developers launching new projects this year, the existing demand gradually bled out of the market,” Mr Poomipak said.

In Hua Hin and Cha Am the average per square meter price now stands at 82,997. Some units are being brought

back on to the market for resale with a 40% price hike or up to 116,410 baht per sqm.

Overall, the market in Cha-am and Hua Hin is very healthy with Thai and foreign tourists flocking to both in droves, especially during long holidays and the high season, said Mr Poomipak.

A closely followed retirement website

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

75

called “Live and Invest Overseas recently named Hua Hin the 7th most attractive city in the world to retire to. Mentioning that article Khun Poomipak finished by saying “We expect unit transfers to rise in the final quarter thanks to the government’s stimulus measures and the growing number of tourists”.

Khun Poomipak

Jane Rennie

Paul Huntjens

Grahame Beecham

Khun Waa Fueangsuwan

Jonus Glud 76

But it’s not just condominums that are in high demand, home sales are also very strong, especially among Hua Hin’s established developers.

Orchid Palm Homes is currently building and selling their 8th development called Mali and recently announced that phase 1 is already 70% sold. When asked why she thnks sales at Mali have been so brisk, Jane Rennie, Sales and Marketing Manager said, “I believe that our success at Mali Residence comes down to two simple things. Firstly, we believe that whilst we build homes on a development, that doesn’t mean that our customers are generic; it is critical that we recognise this and respond flexibly to the different needs and expectations. Secondly, we recognise that our customers have a choice in what and where they buy a home.

By asking our customers to be part of the solution – and not viewing them as a problem - we involve them in the entire process and that way, we make people happy. If you are making people happy, as a side effect, they will be happy to open up their wallets and buy from us.”

Another well known developer, Red Mountain, is also enjoying brisk sales with their latest development called Woodlands.

Paul Huntjens, sales manager had this to say when asked why he thought so many buyers were purchasing there, “Following the success of our Red Mountain project with all 80 villas completed by the end of this year we have now sold about 1/3 of all plots in Woodlands in just over one year time as a result of the excellent value for money, the modern design and great location at just a few minutes from the bypass highway and at just 20 minutes’ drive from a number of major golf courses in Hua Hin. Smart House is another long time Hua Hin developer who have found success focusing on the low to medium priced housing market. According to Grahame Beecham, who oversees sales at Smart House, “Sales have remained strong with our October sales being the highest we’ve experienced in many years. What I’ve noticed recently is that the clients now viewing are serious buyers who have already made a firm commitment to buy a property in Hua Hin.” Grahame went on to say, “Many clients that I have spoken with worry about Europe and what the future holds for many different reasons and see a retirement in Hua Hin to be a much better option for a higher quality of life.”

Hua Hin Hillside Hamlet has certainly had their success in Hua Hin with 5 sold out projects and are well on with sales on their sixth. Khun Waa Fueangsuwan is the developer here although she’s known by

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

Khun “Wow” to her buyers. She had this to say about why sales have been so good at Hillside, “we are excited to begin our 6th project after successfully selling out our last five. In a very short time we’ve already sold 4 homes with an additional 3 reserved in the new project. I believe the reason we’ve had such success is that we are always improving on our quality and the materials we use. Our buyers know they are getting a premium well-built home. The high resale value of properties built in our previous projects are undeniable proof that house hunters recognize and value our building standards.”

One of the real surprises in the Hua Hin Real Estate scene is the remarkable success that first time developer’s LaBua are enjoying. They’ve had the unheard of good fortune of selling over 35 homes in 10 months, before their first show-house was ever completed. Jonus Glud, one of 3 partners in the project told us “ Labua’s house designs take inspiration from some of the world’s most famous luxurious Danish designers to offer a kind of property neverbefore-seen in Thailand.” Jonas went on to say, “our customers are not only looking to buy a designer villa but a new luxurious lifestyle with international facilities such as a tennis court, fitness, maid/garden/pool service, a 200-meter lagoon pool, a pool bar, Jacuzzi areas and a restaurant, all surrounded by scenic mountains and close to town.

Hua Hin’s high tourist season starts in mid November and usually mirrors the high property purchasing season in Hua Hin. With the political situation in Thailand being quiet for well over a year now and semifavorable exchange rates around the globe, those in the property business are hoping to see an increase in an already good property market.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Russ Downing is Managing Director of HOT Hua Hin Property and has for the last 8 years headed up the Hua Hin judging team for the Thailand Property Awards, widely seen as the Academy Awards for the Thailand Property Sector. Russ’s articles have been translated and re-printed in a large popular Chinese magazine and he has had 3 of his luxury listings chosen for the Wall Street Journal’s “House of the Day” feature with near worldwide exposure in the WSJ’s U.S., European and Asian editions as well as online. If you are looking to purchase a home in Hua Hin contact Russ at 084 387 5699 or russ@hothuahin.com.

Luxury Living & Exclusive Lifestyle

Presents

C.D.L.

Miss Hua Hin 2015 Gala Night 12th December 2015 ฟat Amari Hua Hin Resort

Please join us for a Charity Gala Dinner on the 12 of December at the Amari Hua Hin Resort to benefit Rescue Paws. Rescue Paws is a local, non-profit organization that feeds, provides medical treatment and sterilizes Hua Hin’s homeless and helpless street dog population.

The evening will include a 5-star buffet, free flow of beer and wine from 6 to 10 pm, live music, a fashion show, The Miss Hua Hin 2015 competition and a raffle for great prizes. Following there will be an after-party at the Saxophone Lounge with a portion of the proceeds going to Rescue Paws. Please join us for a wonderful evening and a great charitable cause!

Tickets are 1,800 THB The event is open to everyone but RSVP’s are compulsory as space is limited.

For reservations, enquiries or donations Email: info@hothuahin.com or call or Call 094 56 24 560

HUA HIN’S BEST BUYS Hua Hin West

4,800,000 THB

#AG-B4069

Countryside

• Located Approximately 10 minutes from Hua Hin • Euro Kitchen, Air Con in every room • Pool, Covered Terrace, Fantastic Rental Beds : 3 Land Area : 600 m2

Hua Hin South

Baths : 2 Living area : 180 m2

6,500,000 THB

#AG-B4010

Countryside

Hua Hin West

Baths : 4 Living area : 247 m2

5,500,000 THB

#AG-B4055

Countryside

Beds : 3 Land area : 500 m2

Hua Hin South

Countryside

Baths : 4 Living area : 160 m2

7,000,000 THB

#AG-B4065

• Located Approximately 5 minutes from Hua Hin • Euro Kitchen, Air Con in every room • Pool, Covered Terrace, Fully Furnished

• Located Approximately 10 minutes from Hua Hin • Euro Kitchen, Air Con in every room • Pool, Covered Terrace, Fully Furnished

• Located Approximately 10 minutes from Hua Hin • Euro Kitchen, Air Con in every room • Pool, Covered Terrace, 5 minutes to great beach

Beds : 3 Land Area : 450 m2

Beds :3 Land area :512 m2

Beds : 3 Land area : 700 m2

Hua Hin West

Baths : 2 Living area : 145 m2

10,500,000 THB

Contryside

78

Beds : 3 Land area : 800 m2

#AG-B94

Khao Takiab

Baths : 2 Living area :130 m2

19,500,000 THB

Near beach

#AG-V163

Hua Hin West

Countryside

Baths : 3 Living area : 295 m2

11,900,000 THB

#AG-B4071

• Located 10 minutes north of Hua Hin • Euro Kitchen, Air Con, fans • Large pool, covered entertainment area

• A 3 minute walk to a great beach • Less than 10 minutes to Hua Hin Center • Private, large pool with gardens

• Located Approximately 10 minutes from Hua Hin • Large home, garden, covered terrace & Pool • Excellent Value and Condition

Beds : 3 Land area : 785 m2

Beds : 3 Land area : 424 m2

Beds : 3 Land area : 754 m2

Baths : 4 Living area : 220 m2

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

Baths : 2 Living area : 179 m2

Baths : 3 Living area : 210 m2

HUA HIN’S BEST BUYS Hua Hin West

7,900,000 THB

Countryside

#AG-B4080

Hua Hin South

Countryside

#AG-B80

• Located Approximately 10 minutes from Hua Hin • Built by Award Winning Hua Hin Developer • Close to golf, Vana Nava Water Park, Centennial Sports Club Beds : 3 Land Area : 600 m2

Hua Hin West

Baths : 2 Living area : 180 m2

9,000,000 THB

City

#AG-B86

8,900,000 THB

Countryside

#AG-B80

• 10 minutes South of Hua Hin Center • Close to 2 great beaches and 2 golf courses • Euro kitchen, Air con, Pool Beds : 3 Land area : 648 m2

Hua Hin West

Countryside

Baths : 3 Living area : 299 m2

22,000,000 THB

Beds: 3 Land area : 690 m2

Hua Hin South

#AG-B4084

Baths: 4 Living area : 180 m2

15,500,000 THB

#AG-V169

• 5 minutes West of Hua Hin • Euro kitchen, air con and fans throughout • Pool, spa, carport, shuttle bus service

• Located Approximately 15 minutes from Hua Hin • Built by Award Winning Hua Hin Developer • Close to Black Mountain Golf & Water Park

• Located approx. 5 minutes South of Hua Hin • Fantastic Euro Kitchen, Air Con, Fans • Pool, garden, large covered terrace & Sala

Beds : 3 Land area : 650 m2

Beds : 3 Land area : 760 m2

Beds: 3 Land area: 1200 m2

Hua Hin South

Countryside

Beds : 4 Land area : 1,120 m2

Baths : 4 Living area : 250 m2

11,000,000 THB

#AG-B89

Baths : 5 Living area : 300 m2

Hua Hin West

Countryside

Baths : 2 Living area : 355 m2

22,500,000 THB

# AG-B4087

Hua Hin West

Countryside

Baths: 4 Living area: 320 m2

6,900,000 THB

#AG-B4086

• Located Approximately 15 minutes from Hua Hin • Built by Award Winning Hua Hin Developer • Close to Black Mountain Golf & Water Park

• Located Approximately 10 minutes from Hua Hin • Premium Kitchen appliances, doors and windows • Completely turn-key ready to move in

Beds : 3 Land area : 760 m2

Beds : 2 Land area : 400 m2

Baths : 2 Living area : 355 m2

Baths : 2 Living area : 155 m2

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

79

HUA HIN’S BEST BUYS Hua Hin Town

Countryside • Minutes walk to the Beach and New BluPort Mall when opened • Many beachfront restaurant and bars within minutes’ walk • Close to Black SeaPine Golf & Water Park

Khao Takiab

Beach • Located approximately 5 minutes from Hua Hin • Amari w/beach club/ 2 large pools • Fitness, 4 restaurants, furnished

Khao Tao

Beach • Located approx. 15 minutes South of Hua Hin Center • 180 degree ocean view, Hotel Amenities • Fully furnished / turnkey

80

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

22,800,000 THB

Khao Tao

11,220,000 THB

#AG-B4089

Beachfront

#AG-A58

Beds: 4 Baths: 4 Living area: 192 m2 Land area: 252 m2

• Located approx. 15 minutes South of Hua Hin Center • 180 degree ocean view, Hotel Amenities • Modern/High Rental Returns

Beds: 2 Baths: 2 + 1 Living area: 187 m2

5,950,000 THB

Khao Takiab

6,250,000 THB

#AG-A56

Near Beach

#AG-A55

Beds: 1 Baths: 1 Living area: 44 m2

2,950,000 THB

#AG-A57 Beds: Studio Baths: 1 Living area: 48 m2

• Located approximately 5 minutes from Hua Hin • Amari w/beach club/ 2 large pools • Fitness, 4 restaurants, furnished

Khao Tao

Beachfront • Located approx. 15-20 minutes South of Hua Hin • Ocean & beach views, Oceanfront pool • Euro kitchen, Air cons, large covered deck

Beds: 1 Baths: 1 Living area: m2

21,950,000 THB

#AG-A54 Beds: 5 Baths: 5 Living area: 250 m2

HUA HIN’S BEST BUYS Hua Hin North

#AG-V171

19,500,000 THB

This modern Hua Hin golf course home is located in Palm Hills, the “Beverly Hills” of Hua Hin. With majestic mountain and water views this “almost” new home is stylishly decorated with high quality furniture and high end kitchen appliances. All 3 bedrooms are en-suite plus there is a separate guest bathroom. A covered terrace gives you golf course, water and mountain views, the perfect place to entertain guests or just to relax and soak in natures beauty. Included in this home’s purchase is a lifetime family membership to the Palm Hils Golf Club and Palm Hills separate Fitness Club.

Beds: 3

Baths: 3

Hua Hin North

Living area: 650 m2 Land area: 854 m2

#AG-B116

27,500,000 THB

This Hua Hin golf course home is located in the prestigious golf course community of Palm Hills and offers gorgeous park like views overlooking a lake and golf course. The mature grounds contain a three car enclosed garage with storage, two one-bedroom guest houses both en-suite, a main house with 3 bedrooms all en-suite, a bedroom/fitness room en-suite with steam room, an oversized kitchen amd maids quarters en-suite.

The 15-meter swimming pool overflows and there is a 10 person jacuzzi with waterfall feature. This Hua Hin Golf Course home comes with a family lifetime golf membership and a separate fitness facillity lifetime family membership.

Beds: 7

Baths: 8

Living area: 750 m2 Land area: 2,400 m2

Hua Hin North

#AG-B4045

29,000,000 THB

This panoramic golf-course-view pool villa offers premium quality in a premium location. The European Kitchen utilizes high end Smeg appliances and the residence has a comprehensive home automation system. The swimming pool is large at 5 X 13 meters. Included in this home’s purchase is a lifetime family membership to the Palm Hils Golf Club and Palm Hills separate Fitness Club.

Beds: 5

Baths: 5

Hua Hin North

Living area: 710 m2 Land area: 1600 m2

#AG-V170

29,000,000 THB

This large impressive golf course home is located in Palm Hills, approximately fifteen minutes from Hua Hin’s center. From its commanding position you have great golf course and mountain views. This large home has four bedrooms, all en-suite, an office, two covered terraces, a large swimming pool, covered parking for two cars, electric gate and mature topical gardens. This home comes with a lifetime membership to both the golf course and the separate fitness

Beds: 3

Baths: 5

Living area: 287 m2 Land area: 1000 m2

November 15 - December 15 , 2015

81

TO VIEW OUR FULL PROPERTY CATALOG VISIT

www.hothuahinproperty.com

09-4562-4560 (Thai) 08-4387-5699 (English) E-mail: info@hothuahin.com