N ONTHABURI N EIGHBORHOOD R EACH
A PRIL 2016
Thani Talk Serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994
Now online at: www.issuu.com/nnrthanitalk
Nakhon Pathom
PEOPLE: Rose Marie
Cover Story: Massages, p. 8
PEOPLE: Rose Marie, p. 34
Travel: Visa Runs, p. 44
Thani Talk-April 2016
About NNR & Thani Talk
NNR (Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach) is a not-for-profit organization of volunteers dedicated to serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994. We achieve this by publishing Thani Talk, a free monthly magazine that has a distribution of 1,400 copies, as well as hosting an annual charity bazaar. We host monthly socials and organize monthly tours. There are no membership dues, and anyone living in Nonthaburi is already a member.
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NNR BOARD 2015-2016 Chairperson
Mare Harvey
billandmare@mac.com
Vice Chairperson
Henrietta Bullinger
Hbullinger@gmail.com
Treasurer
Livonia Winkles
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Bazaar Committee: Barb Lewis (Coordinator), Mare Harvey (Sponsors), Tipwan Smagpong (Vendors), Natalie Lollback (Volunteers), Tara Faseler and Patricia Smith (Raffles)
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Thani Talk-April 2016
Contents & Calendar of Events
April 13-15 is the Thai New Year holiday known as Songkran. It falls in the middle of the hot season, and celebrations have evolved from the traditional and gentle splashing of scented water to the modern-day version of all-out water battles with friends and strangers alike.
Leveragere.com
Sermsiraivillage7.blogspot
Happy Songkran! April 13– 15
Festivities now involve pump action water guns, and the latest twist is the use of ice-cold water by pranksters. All is done in the spirit of fun. Many Thais travel back to their home villages for Songkran, so highway traffic will be heavy. Stay alert, stay safe, and have fun!
Inside This Issue
NNR & Community Events
NNR Social: April 28 Coffee Morning
4
Apr 13-15 Songkran Holiday
NNR Tour: Or Tor Kor and MOCA
5
Apr 20
NNR Tour (Market & Museum)
Cover Story: Massages & Spas
8-16
Apr 23
Fitness, Tutors
20
St. George's Society Ball at Royal Orchid Sheraton
Grapevine Tips
24
Apr 23
Secret Garden
Charity News
30
Apr 28
NNR Coffee Morning at N2
May 2
Blood Drive at ISB
PEOPLE: Rose Marie Wanchulepa
34
Community News
38
Highlights: NNR March. Social
42
Highlights: NNR March Tour
43
Travel: Visa Runs
44
Restaurant Review: Salad Factory
48
Cover Photo by Ibolya Jeszenszky (Lily pond, Nakhon Pathom) 3
Thani Talk-April 2016
NNR Social
April 28 NNR Social: Friendly Get-Together
Summer is approaching, so grab your chance to meet up with friends before everyone’s schedules fill up next month with end of year activities. Join us at the home of our hostess, Christine Platou Bjornsen, on the 20th floor of the new N2 highrise and enjoy a panoramic view while sipping coffee and chatting with friends. We’re in the middle of Thailand’s hot season, so feel free to bring some cool refreshments to share. No need to RSVP. Just stop by and come as you are to enjoy a friendly chat and catch up with friends. If you have any questions, please contact NNR Social Chair Denise Warta at: cdwarta@yahoo.com See you on April 28th!
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www.presentationmagazine.com
April NNR social at Christine Platou Bjornsen’s home N2 39/1413 20th floor
shinfieldbaptist.org.uk
NNR Tour
Thani Talk-April,2016
NNR April Tour: “Amazing Art and the Magical Market”
Mark Wiens
The April NNR tour takes in two unusual, rarely-visited, Bangkok “top” spots: the upscale produce market called “Or Tor Kor” and the Museum of Contemporary Art” (MOCA). Our first stop is a morning visit to Or Tor Kor, Bangkok’s top-quality “wet” market, which has been ranked the 4th best fresh market in the world by a famous travel guide. In addition to meticulously selected and displayed fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers, you’ll see Thai snacks, sweets, custom-cut meats, seafood, readyto-eat meals, fresh herbs and spices, condiments, and a fabulous food court. It is quite the upscale agricultural market, and the Thai products on offer are simply breath-taking! Or Tor Kor is a wonderful venue for photography (in addition to shopping and tasting). Next up is an English-language group tour of MOCA—the Museum of Contemporary Art. This intriguing museum showcases master works selected from the private collection of Boonchai Bencharongkul. Exhibited on five floors in a striking, purpose-built contemporary building, the works of art span many different media— sculpture, painting, works on paper, mixed media — and are by turns thought-provoking, spiritual, playful, flirtatious, and entertaining. We will enjoy a snack or coffee in the museum’s coffee shop.
Date: Apr il 20th Time: 7:45am - 2:00pm Where: Meet in front of Chevron Theatre, ISB Cost: Tr anspor tation and entr ance fee, private tour (approx. 550 baht) To sign up : Please contact Elizabeth Bredin for reservations at: esbredin@gmail.com Space is limited to 12 participants. Susanne Rodrigues and Elizabeth Bredin, NNR Tour Coordinators 5
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Thani Talk-April 2016
Cover Story: Massages
Overview of Massage and Spa Venues One of the perks of expat life in Thailand is the affordability of massage and spa treatments, which are often a fraction of what they may cost overseas. But quality and prices differ widely, so it’s hard to know where to go and what’s a good value. Plus, during the past 20 years, the massage and spa industry in Thailand has grown by leaps and bounds, resulting in multiple massage shops in every little neighborhood, as well as high-end spa facilities at luxury hotels and resorts. So little time, so many places to try. In this issue of Thani Talk, we do the legwork for you. This month’s cover story on massage and spa venues highlights some of the favorite spots of our readers. A few places are included mainly because they’re in our neck of the woods. Selected caveats are shared, and we leave it up to you to explore and decide what type of treatments and venues are actually best for you. Whether one likes a massage or therapist is a highly subjective matter. A perfect Thai massage for one person can be a frustrating and unsatisfying
experience for another. A soothing foot massage for one person can be a painful ordeal for another. So, please note that the inclusion of a spa or massage venue does not constitute or imply endorsement by Thani Talk or the NNR. The comments and write-ups are the personal opinions of our contributing writers. Neither is the list an exhaustive review of massage and spa venues. Given that there are thousands of massage and spa facilities in the kingdom, what follows is but a sampling. Traditional Thai massage and reflexology reduce stress and offer healing and other health benefits. During your sojourn in Thailand, and before you take off for the summer, take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy this ancient form of the healing arts. Happy reading! Liz Lu Editor, Thani Talk
Local: Rainbow Spa, Rachapreuk Rainbow Spa is located in Nonthaburi, approximately a 15-minutes drive from Nichada Thani. It offers a variety of far infrared therapy such as the Japaneese Chi sand, the heat dome and the Korean stone. Far infrared heat therapy, among other benefits, rids the body of toxins and fat, brought to the surface of the skin through sweat. Exposure to far infrared heat relieves pain, and boosts the immune and cardiovascular systems. The spa also offers an intensive body alignment and reflexology massage. Transport is available to pick up and drop off at your convenience. Please call at least one day in advance to book an appointment. Address: 59/20 Casa Pr emium Village Rachapruck – 345 Road Tambom, Pakkret Tel: 02-156-8563, 0818661441, 0910093750 Lucy Mundia 8
Thani Talk-April 2016
Cover Story: Massages
Local: Nong Thai Massage, Seechaithong I have lived here almost four years now and have had many massages. My favourite by a long shot is Khun Nong. Once I tried her it was hard to go anywhere else. I like a firmer/stronger massage and she does that very well. She also understands the muscles and body better than anyone else I have seen in Thailand. She will also go softer or avoid certain areas if you have an injury. For expats, Khun Nong does western massage with some Thai moves thrown in. I just tell her if I don’t want her to do a particular move. She does oil massage, tiger balm, or a mix. She works on her own and her shop is a small place, but it is clean and comfortable. She charges B250 per hour and would love to have you for 2 hours if you will let her. I have gone for only an hour or 1.5 hours (1.5 hours is the best for me, my husband goes for 2 hours). She will come to your house if she is not too busy and you can transport her both ways. I also give her a tip. To get to Nong Thai Massage, go out the
Seechaithong Gate and turn left. Follow the green signs with the yellow arrows toward the Bypass Road. So, once you exit left out of Nichada, the next turn is a right, and then a left. Khun Nong is on that next stretch of road just before the next right turn (her shop is on the left). She has a sign outside her door. Khun Nong said the street is actually called Seechaithong 37 alley, but I think the directions might be easier. GPS coordinates are 13°53'56.7"N 100°31'02.8"E Mare Harvey
Local: Bamboo Spa, Nichada You know that calm and relaxed feeling you get when you walk into a spa that actually has the look and feel of a spa, with the soothing smells, the darker wood, soft spoken staff, etc.? That is my take upon first entry at Bamboo Spa, which is very conveniently located right next the Starbucks right here in Nichada Thani, just across from ISB. Many people go there for the foot massages. I’ve been for the foot massage (in those super comfortable recliners), Thai massage, and facial. All have been good. However, as with any spa, some staff may be better than others or have a technique more to your liking, so take notes of names for future visits and request those you like. The place is clean, professional, and quiet. I would have expected a spa like this, especially due to the location, to have higher prices. However, they are very reasonable with discount incentives with the one hour Thai massage starting at only B350 (before any discounts). Their selection of massages include Thai, Swedish, hot stone, aromatherapy and more, and the spa also offers facials and body scrubs with discounts when you combine them in one visit.
There is also an additional discount for the prepurchased memberships, with additional savings of up to 30%. Their hours are also very accommodating for all, at 9am to 9pm on weekdays, and 10am to 9pm on weekends with last appointments taken at 8pm. Visa credit cards are accepted for purchases of B700 or greater. Jennifer Skobel
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Cover Story: Massages
Thani Talk-April 2016
Local: Great Massage, Soi Prasert Issaram
Great Massage was the first massage shop to open in the shopping strip just outside Nichada’s main gate. That was nearly 20 years ago. Through the years, plenty of competing shops have popped up in the neighborhood. Now there are half a dozen storefront massage shops: Relax, Araya, Foot Heaven, Bamboo, and Deun, for example. I’ve tried some of the newer ones, but my
favorite local massage provider is still Great Massage. The staff has turned over multiple times through the years, with some moving on to open their own businesses. Great Massage had been slow to renovate its shophouse to keep up with the times, but competition finally forced it to refresh its interior. Now the shop has new lounge chairs and blue wallpaper with leaf designs. The new décor may tempt me to try on-site massages once again. For years when the place was looking a bit run-down, I had opted to pay an extra B50 fee for home massage service. Prices are B250 for 1-hour foot massage, B300 for a 1.5 hour Thai massage, B300 for a 1-hour oil massage. When hosting out-of-town visitors, I surprise house guests by calling Great Massage for home massages to help visitors recover from their trips. The shop’s phone number is: 02-960-3691.
Liz Lu
Local: Araya Massage, Soi Prasert Issaram The ladies at Araya Massage, formerly called Best Massage, have been a huge blessing to our home and many of my friends as well. I remember when they first opened their shop, it took a while before they had enough customers to really survive. One of the ladies was particularly stressed one evening and came to our house in tears. We were their first customer of the day and it was 9 pm. I had the privilege of praying with her and asked the Lord to provide them many customers. Over the years these ladies have become part of our family. They have done such sweet things upon finding out it was one of our family member’s birthday. They laugh with us. They tease us. We play jokes on them. It has really become way more than just receiving a fantastic massage. So this past Christmas a couple of families got together and decided to be really sneaky. We called for massages but instead put on a Christmas party for all the massage ladies of Araya Massage. We had food, games and prizes and then the best part…our husbands massaged their feet!!! It was such a beautiful display of LOVE and reminded me of a beautiful story in the Bible. The guys had a great time trying to make that noise 10
they do with their hands when the massage was over. The ladies just laughed and laughed. So far, it is one of the best memories I have of living in Nichada. When they were leaving, we paid them, but they could not understand why we were paying them for a massage we didn’t receive. I was moved to tears over what transpired in my home that night. The ladies of Best Massage (the new name “Araya Massage” has never caught on with me) will always be my first choice for an “at home” massage. Araya is located near 7-11 outside Nichada’s main gate . It is across the street from the vet. Tel: 086-1076495, 02-9603907 Candi Smith
Cover Story: Massages
Thani Talk-April 2016
Local: Foot Heaven, Soi Prasert Issarm & Nichada Since arriving in Thailand this past summer, my family and I have enjoyed exploring the area and experiencing the wonderful culture. One of the activities that we all have come to really appreciate are the fantastic foot massages! There are many choices of places to go in our area but our favourite has become Foot Heaven. Foot Heaven has two locations, one on the second floor of Nichada Plaza (above Villa supermarket) and the second one just outside the front gate across from 7-11. Both locations are clean, comfortable and welcoming. The Nichada plaza location has a nice set up if you are looking for a quiet, relaxing solo experience as each station is separated from the others by dividers. If you want to enjoy a foot massage with a couple of friends or family members, then the 2nd location is perfect as there are three stations side by side. The vaulted ceiling in the second location provides an open spacious feel which I really appreciate. Both locations also have separate areas for those who are going for the full Thai massage experience. The staff at both locations are very friendly and are clearly skilled in their craft as I always leave feeling completely satisfied with my foot
massage. Although, I enjoy a “hard” massage, I know that others prefer a gentler approach, and the staff are happy to adjust the strength of their massage to the wishes of their clients. Pricing for massages at Foot Heaven are excellent. For example, a foot massage costs B200 and a foot, head and shoulder massage is B300. You will be treated to a refreshing drink while receiving your massage and a nice cup of tea at the conclusion of the massage. Foot Heaven also has a “loyalty” card, and after 10 visits you are rewarded with a free massage. Foot Heaven will continue to be my “go to” place when I am looking to treat myself! Cyndy Henry
Local: Dueun Massage, Soi Prasert Issaram Deuan Massage Spa is the newest kid on the block on Soi Prasert Issaram, having opened only last fall. Owner Deuan used to own a massage service near Rama 9 Road. She moved her business to Pakkred because a relative worked in Nichada, and Deuan decided to try serving the expat market here. She also liked the fact that the shophouse she rents next to Que Pasa is brand new. But on the inside, the walls are already showing wear and tear, and the interior looks a bit like someone’s living room before they had a chance to straighten it up for company. Massage chairs are on the right, and two large bed frames with wilted padding are on the left. The 1-hour foot massage (B250) was okay and included a partial back massage that suggested a Thai massage (B250) by Deuan may be better because she has strong hands. Tel: 084-675-3164. Liz Lu 11
Cover Story: Massages
Thani Talk-April 2016
Local: Relax Massage, Samakkee Road
Tel: 084-659-6069, 083-982-3160 Hours: 9 am to 10pm daily
Do you have tired or achy muscles? Then it may be time for you to go to Relax Massage. I have been in Nichada for six years and met the owner of Relax Massage at the original location just outside the front gate of Nichada Thani. I liked the people and the service so much that I followed the shop to its current location on Samakkee Road. From Nichada’s front gate, head to Samakkee Road, take a right at Samakkee, and the shop is a short distance on the right. It is right next to Pim’s frame shop. The owner, Khun Jaeaod, is friendly and is very knowledgeable about all the pressure points which impact other parts of your body and well being. My husband and I usually go in the evenings for a foot massage. Relax also has an upstairs air-conditioned area with fans too which we have used for couples Thai massage. It is usually best to call Khun Jaeaod at least 15 minutes or more in advance to make a booking. Kathy Hoehn
Local: Foundation for the Blind in Thailand, Tiwanon Road At the Skills Development Center of the Foundation for the Blind in Thailand, located on Tiwanon Road Soi 1 here in Pakkred, young blind men are trained to be masseurs. Girls who are blind are trained at a different facility. Game, 24, who lost his sight at age 10 after suffering from Dengue fever, said he decided to train to be a masseur because the work suited him better than the other typical vocation for the blind in Thailand: lottery ticket vendors. I’ve always wanted to try a massage at the Skills Center in order to support the training program. When I finally stopped by last month, I found the massage rooms simple but clean. Though he could not see, the masseur worked quickly to place a clean bed sheet on the mattress. The massages are inexpensive: B120 for foot or Thai massage in rooms with fans. B150 for foot or Thai massage in air conditioned rooms. The massages were okay, but afterwards I experienced a severe headache that may have been due to the massage, or dehydration. Suddenly I 12
realized why many shops offer post-massage drinks. No drinks were provided at the Skills Center, so dehydration may have been the culprit, rather than the skills of the masseur. I will be giving the place another try, because I suspect my experience was unusual. Liz Lu
Cover Story: Massages
Thani Talk-April 2016
Local & Bangkok, Health Land, National Chain
Desiyatri.com
Orangejasminepurpleyam.com
Mymuaythai.com
In a massage and spa industry populated at one extreme by hole-in-the-wall operations, and at the other extreme by the luxury retreats of destination resorts, there is a company that has carved out a well-run niche market right in the middle. Health Land, a national chain with branches in Bangkok, Pattaya, and Nonthaburi, offers the best of both worlds: low prices in a modern, clean, and professional setting. Upon walking into a Health Land branch, you find yourself in a spacious and soothingly decorated reception area similar to that of a fancy hotel lobby. An efficient and uniformed counter staff books your massage order and takes your payment. The cost of a basic foot massage (B300) is not much more than the cost at local neighborhood massage shops. A 1-hour Therapeutic Massage is B350, and Traditional Thai Massage is B550. But with Health Land, you get affordable prices as well as ambiance. Lighting is muted, and staff members speak softly, just as at a fancier spa. Rooms are clean and well maintained. The main difference between Health Land and a chic spa retreat is that due to the large size of each branch, and despite the lovely dÊcor, you do feel it is mass-produced hospitality. There are so many massage therapists on staff that you never get to know any masseuse personally. At each visit, you end up with a new masseuse. I suppose if I were to visit more frequently, I could request a therapist by name. Here in Pakkred at the Chaengwattana branch, the huge parking lot is a nice advantage. There’s never a problem finding a parking spot. You usually have to wait in line for a massage, but the wait is always brief. Overall, Health Land is good value for money. Liz Lu Local Branch: 5/55 Moo 3 Chaeng Wattana Road Tel: 02 573 3355 Bangkok Branches: Sathor n Road near BTS Chong Nongsi station; Asoke; Sukhumvit Soi 63; Srinakarin Road; Phra Khanong. Other Branches: Pattaya 13
Thani Talk-April 2016
Cover Story: Massages
Bangkok: Su Esthetic Home Spa
Su Esthetic Home Spa, a Korean spa, ranked one of the top in Bangkok, is located off Sukhumvit Road, Soi 26, but you would never know it is in the heart of the city. Originally a Thai home, this old house has been converted into a charming, stylish and relaxing spa. There are four treatment rooms that can accommodate up to six people easily. Korean massage consists of Swedish, Thai, Shiatsu and Reflexology techniques. You can choose to try a traditional Korean scrub (includes Korean steam spa and a soak in a Japanese hot tub!), a body massage with a facial, radio frequency facial firming, floral aroma bath spa, abdomen massage and much more.
You can choose massage packages or individual treatments for a custom session. I decided to try the most popular package-- the body massage with a facial. The massage was different than any I had ever had before. The strokes were very fast and deep pressure was applied using the therapist’s hands, thumbs, elbows and knees. Sometimes stretches with massage were also done which reminded me of a Thai massage. Because I knew very little about Korean massage, I was very surprised when I realized Korean massage included the breasts and abdomen. If you are uncomfortable at all, the therapist lightens her pressure or changes her technique. The customer service is excellent and I would definitely recommend trying Su Esthetic Home Spa for a Korean spa experience you will not forget! On the Spa’s website, the signature body massage is listed as regularly priced at B1,800, but there is a promotional price of B1,000. Other services range from Intensive Eye Treatment for B650, up to 2.5 hour Korean Spa Treatment for B2,800 (special promotion at B1,900). Wanda Grove Address: 26 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok Tel: 082-334– 4086 Website: http://www.suesthetic.com/
The next time you’re downtown near the Erawan Shrine at the famous Rajprasong intersection, and you’re exhausted, follow the tourists. Perhaps by word of mouth, visitors of many nationalities stream to the nearby Amarin Plaza to sample a traditional Thai massage (B400 per hour) or foot massage (B300 per hour) at Kannikar Medical Massage. Coming from the 2nd floor BTS skywalk bridge, go straight back. It’s not a fancy-shmancy resort spa, and the dimly-lit treatment room could use new loungers, but the masseuses are experienced. Kannikar is so popular with tourists that it has added two other shopfronts on the same floor. Kannikar offers basic, quality massages without frills. Liz Lu 14
Amarinplaza.com
Bangkok: Kannikar
Kannikar Medical Massage 2/F, Amarin Plaza, Ploenchit Road, Bangkok Tel: 02-256-9823
Cover Story: Massages
Thani Talk-April 2016
Bangkok: Refresh@24 Spa & Massage I visited in mid-afternoon, and there wasn’t a wait, but evening hours may be busier since the spa is located in a popular tourist and restaurant area. Free parking is provided, which is handy in such a busy and crowded neighborhood. Liz Lu
refresh24spa.com
This day spa looks as fancy as a resort spa, but the prices are reasonable, the service was polite, and the quality of the massages was excellent. Two receptionists greeted me warmly and served me lemon grass tea while I perused the service menu. I chose a basic foot massage (B480) and a 1-hour Thai massage (B440). Other services on the menu ranged from Hot Stone Massage (B2,900 for 2 hours) to Four Hands Shea Butter Cream Massage (B3,500 for 2 hours). The receptionist asked me what massage strength I preferred: soft, medium or strong. The foot bath area was clean and adorned with flowers. There is a dedicated room for foot massages, and the plush recliners were the most comfortable seating I’ve ever enjoyed. Soft music added to the relaxing ambiance. The masseuse was experienced and responsive to customer preferences. For the Thai massage, we moved to a large room lined with massage cubicles separated by curtains. The place was spotless. The massage left me feeling refreshed and reinvigorated.
Address: 43 Soi Sukhumvit 24, Klongtoey Tel: 02-597-2357 Hours: Monday - Sunday: 09.30 a.m - 01:00 a.m Last Booking at 23.00 p.m Website: r efr esh24spa.com
Bangkok: Chatrium’s Nemita Spa
Nemita Spa - Chatrium Riverside Hotel 28 Charoenkrung Road, Bangkok Hours: 10am - 10pm Tel: 02-307-8888 . E-mail: info.chrb@chatrium.com
Accessible by car or by the Chatrium Hotel’s private ferry which picks up from the Taksin Pier, the hotel’s Nemita Spa is a calm retreat with numerous individual treatment rooms. Both the individual and couple's treatment rooms are huge! They are very tastefully decorated and immaculate. Each room has an attached private bathroom which is spacious and truly luxurious. There are the usual variety of services available, from Thai massage to foot massages, aromatherapy, facials, rejuvenation treatments, to baths and scrubs. The therapists are very professional and are constantly observing responses so that they can modify and adapt treatment as necessary. The 90-minute facial costs B2,000. Since I ended up having an arm cramp, I also received a 10 minute arm, neck and shoulder massage thrown in for free. Not cheap but I left the spa incredibly relaxed and rejuvenated. Helen Weir 15
Thani Talk-April 2016
Bangkok: Oriental Hotel Spa Though a long-term expat here in Thailand, I had never been to the Oriental Hotel Spa. When the hotel recently gave me a birthday voucher for 50% discount on spa services, I decided it was time to find out what a 5-star experience would be like. The Oriental Spa is popular with overseas tourists, so it is necessary to book one day ahead. The Spa, located across the Chaophraya River from the main building of the Oriental Hotel, can be reached by taking the hotel’s private ferry. Once you arrive at the Spa reception area, staff members dressed in silk uniforms bring you a refreshing ice-cold face towel, slippers, and a chilled lemongrass beverage. You sip and relax while filling out a form inquiring about your general health. The massage menu is extensive and includes the trendy Four Hands Massage that seems to be de rigueur for high-end spas nowadays. I opted for a standard 1-hour Thai massage (B4,500) and a 1-hour foot massage (B1,750 per 30 minutes) because in my research for this month’s cover story, I’ve been trying the same massages at different venues in order to compare their service. Since the Oriental menu only offers foot massages in 30-minute increments, a 1-hour foot massage costs B3,500. After you get over the sticker shock, you focus on enjoying the experience. Massages take place in luxuriously decorated private suites complete with a steam room, bathroom, vanity, closet and a digital safe for your valuables. You have the choice of steaming and showering before or after your massage treatment. The allotted 15-minutes for bathing is on top of your treatments, so together with dressing and enjoying a beverage after your massage, a 2-hour treatment actually takes 3 hours. The masseuses are highly skilled. They’ve been trained to tailor the massages to your liking and inquire about your comfort. “Is the temperature in the room comfortable? Do you prefer I turn off the music? Madame, is the massage pressure good for you?” More importantly, they immediately adjust the massage to your preference. To my delight, foot massages begin and end with steaming hot towels pressed against your feet and legs. A visit to the Oriental Spa is pricey, but as a treat for a special occasion, it’s worth the splurge. Liz Lu 16
S P A
Copyright Mandarin Oriental (Bangkok.com)
Cover Story: Massages
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When Life Feels Overwhelming Reach Out for Help‌ For more than 30 years, Carl Janowitz has provided therapy for adults, couples, adolescents and families. Carl spent most of his life in the US where he earned his Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and completed his internship before working in both residential settings and private practice. In 2003, he was offered a full time position as the only Western Psychologist at Bumrungrad Hospital where he spent five years in clinic before going into private practice. Now with offices in both Bangkok and Pattaya, Carl specializes in clients dealing with life changes, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety and stress and also focuses on both adolescents and adults with self esteem issues. For a confidential appointment please call 089 680 3503 or counselor_cj@bangkoktherapy.com www.bangkoktherapy.com
Carl Janowitz Marriage and Family Therapist Circle One Building 1674 Petchaburi Rd. (Near Bumrungrad)
Writers Needed
Got a flair for writing? Good at meeting deadlines? Contact Liz at nnrnews@gmail.com 18
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Community Fitness and Activities
Thani Talk-April 2016
The Community Fitness and Activities page lists local classes/groups that meet regularly. Some have fees associated with them, while others are free. Please contact each group leader for more information. If you would like to list your group here, please submit your announcement by the 15th of each month to nnradverts@yahoo.com.
Yoga & Meditation KUNDALINI YOGA-Give Strength, Flexibility and Awareness to Body and Mind Beginners to advanced welcome! Tuesdays 9am-10:30am, Thursdays 10:30am-Noon Fridays 8am-9:30am Danicha Condo 39/289. Private classes available. Contact Kerstin Wild kerstin.bangkok@gmail.com 086-372-9750 FB: yogaofawareness Visit www.Yoga-of-Awareness.com.
IYENGAR YOGA Iyengar yoga classes at the Regent, from Beginners to Advanced Asanas. Every weekday (Monday to Friday) from 08:00 am. to 09:30 am. Contact: 0812853050, Juan Bodan, Iyengar and Ashtanga yoga Certified. For more information about Juan please visit http://kripa-yoga.com/
YOGA WITH NAPISA
ASHTANGA YOGA With PanZen A great way to improve your flexibility, core strengthand get balance in your life‌. Breath, Body and Mind Working with all levels Beginner to Advanced. - Tuesday 4:30-5:30 pm (Intermediate) - Wednesday 3:45-4:45 pm (Advanced) - Thursday 4:30-5:30 pm (Intermediate) - Saturday 9:30-10:30 am (Beginners) 097-227-6999 panzenyoga@hotmail.com For more information please visit my website at http://panzenyoga.wix.com/panzen
MEDITATION COURSES -Individual or Group Learn TM (Transcendental Meditation). Relieves stress and anxiety. Improves health, academic, athletic, and professional performance. Anyone can learn. Expert instruction by a 35-year teacher of meditation. Contact Ellie Edelhoff eedelhoff@hotmail.com www.TM.org or www.DavidLynchFoundation.org
Monday, 8:45-10:15 am: All levels, Energize and Restorative Yoga. Wednesday 7:30-9am: Level 2, Wednesday 5:30-6:45 pm: Level 1-2, Friday 7:308:45 am: Level 1- 2 @ Nichada Fitness Studio above Starbucks. Contact Napisa C. Pant, 086-975-7187, napisapant.yoga@gmail.com, FB: YogaWithNapisa
Tutorials PIANO LESSONS FOR ALL AGES and ALL LEVELS By experienced professional with a Masters from University of Ariz. in Piano Performance and experience teaching at Westover School in Connecticut. Place: 39/891 Regent Price: 1000 baht per 30 minutes Contact Info: capricio310@gmail.com Tel: 091-878-6283
WORLD ENGLISH Enjoy refining skills in oral English and composition with American, DEBORAH DUNTHORN, BA, MFA, TESL Cert. 30 years international experience coaching academic, professional, and other clients of all ages and levels of proficiency. To discuss private or group tuition contact 083-055-9785 or debhata@yahoo.com. 20
Thani Talk-April 2016
Community Fitness and Activities
Dance Classes
Sports
LATIN RHYTHYMS DANCE
BIKING
Improve your dance skills in different rhythms: cumbia, salsa, merengue, bachata, rock & roll, pop. Mondays: 8:30-9:30 advanced Tuesdays: 8:30-9:30 beginners Wednesdays: 8:30-9:30 advanced One more day will be opened for beginners. All classes held in Nichada Raintree 39/776 Contact: Blanca De la Vega Tel 0863483287
Weekend bike rides, leaving from back gate at 7am, 50+km on mtn bikes. Contact Chris: caoglesby@hotmail.com Weekday rides leave the back gate at 7:30 a.m. Distance and terrain varies with groups for both road bikes and mountain/hybrid bikes. Contact Henrietta Bullinger: hbullinger@gmail.com
BOLLYWOOD DANCE Bollywood dance is an exciting and upbeat fusion of Western and Eastern dances with traditional classical Indian dance styles. It’s funky, it’s sexy, it’s fun... and it’s a great workout! If you love to dance – this is for you! Wednesdays or Thursdays or Fridays 9:30-10:30am All classes held in Nichada Studio above Starbucks. For further information, contact Irit: 0860044840 iritmike@gmail.com
MASTERS SWIMMING Nichada Pool, Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:30-8:30. Every swimmer is welcome. Contact Kevin: ksypolt@gmail.com or Kerstin: kerstin.bangkok@gmail.com 086-372-9750
RANGER BOOTCAMP: Come have fun and get fit at Ranger Bootcamp! All fitness levels are welcome! Class Times: 7:30am, Monday - Friday + additional day/night classes per demand Location: Varies depending on class and time Fees: varies Contact: Jack at rangerbootcamp@hotmail.com or 087-552-6007
TENNIS WITH SAGI Certified tennis coach, teaching the Play & Stay method on Nichada tennis court, for all ages and levels. Private lessons and groups of up to four. 7 days a week, flexible hours. Tennis is EASY, FUN and HEALTHY, see you on the court! Contact Sagi Luft at 092-271-2110 Email: sagiluft@hotmail.com
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Thani Talk-April 2016
Heard It Through The Grapevine
Heard It Through the GRAPEVINE This column offers a chance to share all those good finds and tips that are helpful to others. If you have tips to share, please send them to Liz at nnrnews@gmail.com.
Golf: Close, Convenient, ad Affordable Looking for a quick round of 9 holes, just 10 minutes from Nichada's front gate? Or keen to improve your game and build up your confidence to play at a more upmarket course? Then try the Royal Irrigation Department Golf Course on Tiwanon Road for a “cheap and cheerful” golf game. On weekdays, the green fees are only B400 and on weekends, B500. It’s an additional B300 for your caddy, and the usual caddy tip is B200 for 9 holes, or B300 for 18 holes. For more details, see: http://thaigolfer.com/course/117. Val Mowat
Café Kabul: Great Food, Warm Hospitality Café Kabul opened for take-out a little over a month ago, and it has quickly become a favorite for our family. The cozy restaurant, located just out the front gate of Nichada Thani, is now open for sit down orders. The North Indian and Afghani Halal menu is full of great choices. The large Afghani style potato samosas and the Tandoori barbecue choices are mouth wateringly tasty. The Akbari Ghosht, nick-named after the owner as “Shawn’s Favorite” is particularly hearty and memorable. We also love the naan and the daal and look forward to working our way through the extensive menu. The nature of the dishes require that they be created fresh, so some orders may take a bit of time to be filled, especially during peak hours. I recommend ordering early and then savoring the great food! Laura Sadowski 24
Heard It Through The Grapevine
Thani Talk-April 2016
Custom-Printed T-shirts & Gifts Little Art is a business that just opened with cute t-shirts and gift items. You can also have photos or sayings printed on the t-shirts. Just send your photo to the following email: little.art7262@gmail.com. To get to the shop, turn left on Samakee Road, then turn right on the next big road after the Oasis Shopping Centre. Little Art is on the right in the first group of tiny shops. Nice lady but she doesn’t speak much English. Mare Harvey
Address: Shop#56, Pr acha Niwet 3, Soi 1
Facelift @Starbucks: New Look & Charging Stations The NEW & improved Starbucks is now OPEN! I think everyone was suffering from caffeine withdrawals when Starbucks closed for renovations, but it was so worth it. Everything has changed: new furniture, new layout, new outside furniture, new decor, and new charging stations at the high rise tables for your phones, iPads, or laptops. Starbucks is open M-F 6:00 am - 7:00 pm, Sat-Sun. 6:30 am-7:00 pm . Come check it out! Shana DeHaven
Delicious Soup, Anyone? Khun Nuey and her daughter, Khun Ririporn, serve delicious soup right outside Nichada’s front gate, to the left of 7-11. You can pick which vegetables, meat (chicken or beef), noodles and spices you prefer. Our kids love their soup, and it is perfect when you need a light meal quick. We first learned about the "soup ladies" from our high schooler. She would go with friends after school and get soup. Now we all enjoy their soup! Wanda Grove 25
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Charity
Thani Talk-April 2016
Pass it Forward: Community with a Big Heart Our community has continued to be so generous and is so quick to respond to the needs of our NNR charities. This month donations were made to Sparrow Home, Thanksgiving House, Bumble Bee Free Library and APSW (Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women) , and they would all like to say “Thank You�! Sparrow Home thanks: Antonsen family: Clothes, bikes, baby tub, fans. Jack Sweirczewski: Clothing Isabella Vargas: Toys. Thanksgiving Home thanks: Schonauer family: Scooter , toys and clothes Blumberg family: Clothes and food. New residents at Sparrow Home and Thanksgiving are thrilled to receive the donations. NNR: Secur ity gate. Rachawadee Boys Home thanks: Jessica Zaman: Bicycle Bumble Bee Free Library thanks: Sypolt family: Books, bookcases, ar twor k, map Charinthip Tiyaphorn: Wor ld globes Chinese Club: Pencil holder s, book cover s Esmay, Barnes & McNary families: Books, office supplies, back pack, mosquito zapper. Bumble Bee Free English Class thanks: Vineeta Mathews : Water dispenser APSW pr ovides emer gency home ser vices to women and children and would like to thank Amber Hill for donating maWanda Grove
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Thani Talk-April 2016
Charity
Leaving? Debby Floyd Donates All Her Kitchen Equipment
Debby Floyd moved to Nichada about two years ago and quickly started making friends and helping her new community. She attended an “After the Boxes” meeting for newcomers and learned about Thanksgiving House, a Pakkred home for at-risk children. She decided to teach the children English on Thursdays, starting with morning hours and later adding evening classes, and she soon became known to the children (and even some neighbors) as “Teacher Debbie.”
After she taught for about 6 months, the children asked her if she could teach them to cook. So began Teacher Debby’s cooking lessons. One Thanksgiving Day she taught them how to make mashed potatoes, which they all loved. Debby and the kids would make all sorts of things, but Debby says the children’s favorites are tacos, individual pizzas and sweets. Debby’s heart has been touched by these friends she has made at Thanksgiving House, and they have become very touched by her as well. Debby says, “They just want most of all to know somebody cares.” We are sad to see Debby move back to Virginia in the United States, but we wish her the very best. She has donated all her kitchen supplies to Thanksgiving House so they can continue learning and eating together. If anyone is interested in cooking with Thanksgiving House whenever they have time or on a regular basis, please email: Wanda Grove (wandagrove14@gmail.com) or Jennifer Skobel (jcskobel@gmail.com). Wanda Grove
Downsizing? Sypolt Family Donates Kids’ Books & Furniture After Jan Van Ekeren retired from the Krungsri Group as Senior Executive VicePresident in January, and with daughter Ellen about to graduate in June, she and her husband Kevin Sypolt decided to get ready to downsize. To the delight of volunteers at the Bumble Bee Free Library, Jan stopped by multiple times in March to drop off and donate mountains of nearly brand new books, plus three bookcases. She also donated artwork she had purchased. The painting is by an American Women’s Club scholarship student. When local Thai children at the Bumble Bee Free English Class were learning about countries of the world, Jan donated a large map. Said Jan, “Growing up in a small Iowa town, reading opened up the world to me and my love of reading evolved into a love of traveling and working abroad. It’s a real privilege for me to be able to ‘pay it forward’ and encourage our local Thai kids to develop their own love of reading.” Liz Lu 31
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PEOPLE: Rose Marie
Thani Talk-April 2016
Educator’s Journey: Peace Corps to Proprietor More than half a century ago, in 1962, an American college graduate named Rose Marie Welliver landed in Thailand with the first ever crop of Peace Corps volunteers. Of that inaugural group of 45 young people, three married Thais and made Siam their permanent home. Rose Marie was one of them. Today, she is Rose Marie Wanchupela, owner and Academic Director of Rose Marie Academy, and owner of the new Easan fabric shop, both located here in Nichada Thani. “I always knew I wanted to work abroad, from the time I was young, listening to the missionaries talk,” said Rose Marie, who grew up in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania on the east coast of the United States. Fresh out of Syracuse University, where she majored in political science, Rose Marie did exactly that and underwent language and cultural training in Michigan with the Peace Corps, a new U.S. government program launched by President John F. Kennedy to provide technical and educational training to people outside the United States, and to promote mutual, cultural understanding.
In her office at Rose Marie Academy near Nichada’s access to the expressway, a copy of a Norman Rockwell painting of Kennedy and Peace Corps volunteers, as well as a friend’s painting of her family’s farm in Pennsylvania, adorn the walls. Rose Marie, now 76 with silver hair, and looking elegant in a hand-woven silk ensemble, reminisced about her past 5 decades in Thailand. Rose Marie had originally been stationed to teach in Songkhla province in southern Thailand, but when her father suddenly fell ill, the Peace 34
Corps said it would pay for one trip back to the United States, either right away, or later for the funeral. Rose Marie left immediately to be by her father’s side. “My father always admired people who could speak foreign languages,” said Rose Marie, now fluent in Thai. “The fact that I was learning a language, he was proud of that.” It was fellow Peace Corps volunteer Bob Cumming who introduced Rose Marie to her future husband, Prinya Wanchupela, a handsome young man from Ban Namol village of Kalasin province in northeastern Thailand. The northeast region is known as Easan, and a major city is Korat. By the time Rose Marie returned from the United States, she was reassigned to a teacher training college in Korat. “I think it’s fate,” said Rose Marie of that transfer. “We were meant to be together.” Prinya, a graduate of Assumption College and Chulalongkorn University, worked for the United States Information Service before joining Thailand’s Government Savings Bank. Rose Marie taught at Bangkok College off Rama 4 Road, and later for 11 years at International School Bangkok. It was the early 1970s, the height of the Vietnam war, when ISB had separate campuses – one on Sukhumvit Soi 15 for the elementary and high school students, and one on Vipawadhi Highway for the middle school students. Rose Marie taught Intensive Studies at both campuses. In 1966, the young couple moved to upstate New York, where Prinya earned his MBA in Finance at Syracuse University. He was later appointed manager of the International Savings Bank Institute’s Regional Office for Asia/Pacific. Once back in Thailand, Rose Marie and Prinya often visited his relatives in Easan, where Rose Marie’s mother-in-law was renowned for her ikat weaving designs. Rose Marie loved the art of
PEOPLE: Rose Marie weaving so much that she started her own fabric business and named it “Easan” in honor of the region of her husband’s birth. She operated the shop at many locations in Bangkok throughout the years, but stopped when Prinya suffered debilitating strokes. He passed away in 2012. Earlier this year, Rose Marie reopened the shop on the 2nd floor of the new shopping plaza in Nichada.
“I was never good in art,” said Rose Marie. “I couldn’t even draw a smiley face. But with fabric, I can let my imagination go wild. I can sketch on paper what I wanted. I was in seventh heaven. At last I had an artistic outlet.” She runs the shop out of love for the art of weaving. “God knows I’m not making any money from it.” Her other business, Rose Marie Academy, grew out of her love for education and teaching. After leaving ISB where she specialized in intensive studies and teaching reading, Rose Marie was in constant demand as a tutor, especially after the Thai government in 1990 passed national legislation allowing Thais to attend international schools. Together, Rose Marie and Prinya founded
Thani Talk-April 2016
Rose Marie Academy, formerly located just inside Nichada’s main gate. The couple shared the same vision about the importance of education. The son of a school teacher, Prinya’s very name means “academic degree” in Thai. The Academy now has 100 students, including 60 Thais, and the well-maintained campus buzzes with activity and energy. “It’s a small school,” said Rose Marie, “We all know each other. The appeal of our school is the individual attention we give our kids.” Rose Marie Academy is accredited by the Thai government and is listed by both ISB and the U.S. Department of Overseas Schools as an educational option in Bangkok. Approximately 10 to 20 percent of Rose Marie Academy students eventually attend ISB. Rose Marie, who does not have children, plans to set up a foundation so that Rose Marie Academy will continue to serve the community. The passion for education she shared with Prinya has already made a difference in Prinya’s home village of Ban Namol, where Rose Marie, with the support of friends and colleagues, built and opened The Prinya Wanchupela Library at Namol Wittayakarn School in 2014. “When you see how much difference you can make in the lives of young people,” Rose Marie said of her career as an educator, “It’s exhilarating!” Liz Lu
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Community News
Thani Talk-April 2016
Nichada Update: New Homes; New Security Policy Recently I attended a food tasting at Vapor restaurant. Khun Natakorn was testing out some potential new menu items for the restaurant. The food was great, and we look forward to their new menu soon. I also interviewed Scott Roman in Customer Relations to find out what is new in Nichada. You may have noticed that the old mini-golf area is being replaced by more stands to grow hydroponic vegetables. If you are interested in purchasing some privately, please contact Scott Roman at scott.r@nichada.com. Nichada is also trialing a new “perk” for Velvet Card Members. Many people have asked what the Velvet Card is. Velvet Card Members receive extra benefits for living in Nichada-owned homes and having Nichada Clark Hatch memberships. A Clark Hatch membership entitles you to use the Nichada Club pool, gym, tennis courts, squash courts, and use the expressway gate to leave Nichada. There is a second layer of membership called Nichada Club membership, which allows you to use the pool, tennis, and squash courts. Having a Velvet Card means you receive loyalty rewards. By the time you read this Nichada will have just trialed a free van service from the Nichada Plaza to Central World and Paragon shopping centres. As the BTS expands and works it way closer to us (when the red and purple lines meet), Nichada will also offer Velvet Card members a free shuttle service from Nichada to the new BTS station. If all goes well, we can look forward to that in about a year’s time. Nichada has recently added some new signage to highlight the homes they own and manage. The neighborhoods are The Prestige, Premier Place 1, 2, and 3, Baan Rim Lake, Lakeside Residence, Nichada Veranda, and the new Nichada and Natakorn Lake Condominiums (N1N2). All other neighborhoods have their own landlords and a community liaison person to contact in case you have issues with your house or neighborhood. Nichada also maintains and repairs common areas such as roads, roadside gardens and lampposts. 38
The newest completed neighborhood in Nichada is called Lakeview Residence. It is a neighborhood of six new homes near the Seechaithong gate. All six are sold, four of them are finished and two are still under construction. The next construction to start in Nichada will be in April at the development called Green Park. That is the space located between The Terrace and teacher housing. The entrance to Green Park will be just off the round about, up towards teacher housing. Eventually there will be 43 homes, but only 3 will be built this year. They will be located at the lakeside edge of the property. The 3 new homes will be high end with 3 stories and lake views, 5 bedrooms, 2 kitchens, and 7 bathrooms. They are for sale. The remaining 40 homes will be a different design. Repairs to the walkway between Lakeshore West and N1N2 are in the planning stages. It will be a big job as the pilings have sunk over the years. There is currently no time line on when the repairs will begin. And finally, Nichada is planning to trial a new security protocol to help track the people who come in and out of Nichada. The visitor coupon procedure should start soon, and Scott wanted community members to be aware. With the visitor coupon procedure, visitors to Nichada will go through the same entry procedure as now, but they will have to have a stamp or signature from the residence they are visiting before they can exit Nichada. The visitors will receive this paper on arrival to Nichada, and the guards at each neighborhood will stamp their paper on the way out. If your area doesn’t have a guard, then a resident’s signature will be required so that your visitor can leave Nichada. If someone is making a delivery to a business in Nichada, then a business employee must sign or stamp the visitor’s paper. Some neighborhoods in Nichada already have this procedure. Mare Harvey
Thani Talk-April 2016
Community News
Amazing Race Season 9 For nearly a decade, high school students have waited in anticipation for a very extraordinary annual race. Sponsored by Chaengwattana Community Church Student Ministries, The Amazing Race just finished its ninth season. Gathering in teams of four, 76 students raced around Bangkok competing in a variety of challenges. Testing physical strength, creativity, brainpower, a little luck, very strong stomachs, and the will to press on as a team, these students had a blast and learned a lot during the two-day race. Putting together an outreach like this cannot be accomplished without tremendous support from volunteers. Seeing how the CCC Church body, along with others in the Nichada community, came together to make this happen is a unique and gratifying experience.
Congratulations to BETA HOUSE team members Megan Tyre, Sam Oglesby, Patrick Rivera, and Devi de Oliveira, for being this year’s Amazing Race winners! Nate Robertson
New ISB Program Serves Intensive Learning Needs In January, ISB’s Board of Trustees voted to establish the first intensive learning needs classroom at the school. The new program will be launched in August 2016. This is an exciting next step towards our goal of becoming a more inclusive school. This classroom will serve a maximum of six students with intellectual or developmental disabilities (e.g. Down’s Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, etc.) in the elementary and middle schools. Students in the program will require a highly individualized education that focuses on developing independence and life skills. Students will be based in the intensive needs classroom, and included with typically developing peers to the maximum extent appropriate. The class will be taught by a highly trained special educator and assistants and supported by other related professionals such as speech language pathologists, school psychologists and occupational therapists. Our ultimate goal is to have one such classroom in each of the divisions: elementary, middle and high schools, with a maximum of six students in each class. The program will be funded by additional
fees paid by parents of students with special needs. ISB has been working towards serving the full diversity of learning needs in our community for several years. This program takes us closer to our goal of allowing ISB families to send all of their children to ISB, regardless of their learning needs. All school-aged siblings of Intensive program applicants must attend ISB. In addition to serving students with intensive learning and their families, we believe this program will be of benefit to our typically developing students. They will learn about the diversity of the “real world” and have the opportunity to form new relationships as they engage in the service learning and vocational opportunities this program will provide. Working to meet the needs of students with greater learning challenges will result in learning and growth for us as educators, and it will benefit all students. For more information about the program, or to apply, please contact the Admissions Office at: register@isb.ac.th. Cindy Warner-Dobrowski 39
Thani Talk-April 2016
Community News
Red Cross Blood Drive at ISB ISB will be hosting the Thai Red Cross on May 2 for a blood drive from 9am - 3pm. The Thai Red Cross is constantly running low on all blood types and would like as many donors as possible. The blood that is donated will be used by the Red Cross for potentially life saving blood, plasma and platelet transfusions. Monday, May 2 is the May Day substitute holiday so many “workers� will be on holiday that day. Please consider giving up some time to donate. Further details will be publicized before the blood drive, including how to sign up to donate. Also available will be information on a Negative Blood Group Database and procedures for joining the Stem Cell Donor Registry. If you have any questions about the blood drive, please contact: sallyp@isb.ac.th Sally Plomley
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Highlights: NNR Social
Thani Talk-April 2016
NNR Night @ Centara Skybar
James Bond was the theme for the NNR evening social at Centara Ladprao on March 17. Guests enjoyed Belvedere 'Bond' Martini Night at Blue Sky Bar, where chilled martinis were served “shaken, not stirred.” Derek Sanders, Moet and Belvedere Ambassador, looked the part of Agent 007 as he shared his knowledge of his company’s products. Centara provided transportation from Nichada to the hotel
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and back. Around 25 people came to enjoy the beautiful, breezy evening on the rooftop Sky bar. It was an evening of beautiful scenery, music, chatting and of course lots of different martinis. Thank you to all who came out for the evening. Also a very big thank you to Centara and their staff for planning this event for NNR. Denise Warta
Highlights: NNR March Tour
Thani Talk-April 2016
Highlights of March NNR Tour
It often amazes me how - even for those of us who have lived here a while – there are still new and exciting places to discover – treasures, really that are no more than a stone’s throw away! And thus the NNR Tour on March 8th was aptly named “Tour of Hidden Treasures in Nonthaburi.” A dozen Nichada explorers, led by the knowledgeable Elizabeth Bredin and the delightful Susanne Rodrigues, set out to investigate. We headed out west, an hour away from Nichada, and soon we were driving through scenic rice paddies. Our first stop was at Wat Bang Phra, a beautiful Buddhist monastery situated on the banks of the Tha Chin River in Nakhon Pathom district. We’ve seen wats before - but this wat holds a unique treasure – it is a famous place in Thailand to get a sacred tattoo, by revered tattoo master monks. In a quiet, sublime room, engulfed in spirituality, we sat cross-legged amongst other devotees, both Thai and foreign. We looked on in amazement at the two monks who were delivering the tattoos to those brave enough to endure the evident pain, all for the promise of the mystical protection these tattoos are believed to give. While one monk worked with a long bamboo stick with sharp edge, the other used a more modern tattoo instrument. It is believed that the ink contains snake venom – for disinfection. Even though none of us got a tattoo, we shared just a little of the butterflies in the stomach with those who were about to. It was truly fascinating to watch. The next stop of treasures was an OTOP
(One Tambon One Product) production factory and showroom for all things coconut – and more. The divine aromas hit us as soon as we entered the production room, and we were shown the process with which colorful soaps are made, in all tantalizing shapes of flowers and fruit. They looked and smelt so good – it was all we could do to refrain from taking a bite! When one knows how something is made, and with what care, it makes buying it all the more fun. In the OTOP shop we filled our bags with soaps, creams, lotions and coconut shell creations. Our last stop was the AirOrchid farm. In this massive expanse of flowers which stretches as far as the eye can see, there are a plethora of orchids of different varieties, shapes, colors and sizes. After a tasty lunch in the quaint little restaurant/café on the farm, we were treated to a personal tour from Khun Alex, one of the owners and managers. A charming and charismatic young man, Khun Alex knows his orchids well, as he is third generation in this business. We all learnt that the most common Thai orchid variety is called Dendrobium. We saw the life cycle of the orchid, from the time it is a small seedling, grown in temperature-controlled rooms in sealed bottles, to the time it is a full blown beauty. Many of us took some of those irresistible beauties home. We returned to ISB with a minivan choc-abloc full of aromatic soaps, gorgeous flowers, lively chit-chat, fond memories and high spirits! Thank you, Elizabeth and Susanne, for uncovering these treasures for us! Irit Namatinia 43
Travel: Visa Runs
Thani Talk-April 2016
Visa Adventures of a Young Man I’m visiting my parents and sister in Thailand for a few months and got my new passport almost three months ago. Within 10 weeks, I used my passport more than the average Irishman would in years of travel. Perhaps it’s in my nature to jump the gun, to act and think later, or perhaps it’s my love of travel that prompted me to take two trips to neighboring countries – Cambodia and Laos -- in order to have the proper visas for Thailand. Here is the tale of my visa adventures. A month ago, I made the road trip to PoipetAranyaprathet near the Thai-Cambodian border. On the Thai side, I learned the hard way that things never go as planned. As I approached the border, I walked past a commercial area with gutted office buildings. Some men urged me to walk behind a building, through a passage way, and to a small back room. They asked for 100 baht for visarelated photos and told me to fill out a visa application and pay a fee. Everything seemed too shady.
Thai side of Poipet-Aranyaprathet border
I would later learn that this was the way to do it, if you wanted to do it the fast way. At any rate, I turned down their offer, dashed out of that room and made my way to the official border area. But I had no idea how to proceed. Tip #1 for obtaining a re-entry visa to Thailand. Plan, plan, plan. Recheck and revisit 44
everything you were told and then anticipate the worst possible outcome. I should have done more research. Instead, I assumed everything would be done and dusted within 15 minutes, and I would be well on my way back to Thailand. As it turned out, I ended up walking quickly through no-man’s land between Thailand and Cambodia, down some steps and followed the signs to the Cambodian side. Once at the Cambodian immigration check point, I was immediately approached by three men, then five, who all insisted I go with them. No doubt the men had guessed my intent -a visa-run -- because I was a traveller with no luggage. It was then that I realized I had no money for a Cambodian entry visa. I phoned my mother, who was waiting back on the Thai side, for assistance. I doubled back to the end of the line and waited an extra 30 minutes before my mother was able to join me. We both ended up crossing the border into Cambodia, and therefore each of us had to pay B2,100 for a Cambodian entry visa. Two hours later, we were back on the Thai side, and I had a re-entry visa to Thailand for a 15-day stay in the kingdom. Moral of the story don’t spend all day and overpay for a two week tourist visa. Once back in Thailand, my next stop was to the Thai government immigration center on Chaengwatttana Road, about a kilometer from Nichada. The plan was to ask the Thai government for an extension on my tourist visa. Four hours of waiting in lines plus B1,900 granted me 30 days, enough time to sort out flights to Vientiane, Laos for my next visa renewal. Here’s something else I learned. If you cross into Thailand by land, you get a visa for only a 15-day stay. But if you enter at an airport, you get a tourist visa on arrival good for a 30-day stay. If you need to stay longer than that, and you are visiting family in Thailand, then go to a Thai embassy any where in the world and apply for a Non-Immigrant O visa. In mid-March, I flew to Vientiane in pursuit of a Non-Immigrant O visa. What awaited me in Laos was the proper approach, though I still paid an expediter hovering outside the Thai embassy B100 to fill out an application. In Laos, I
Travel: Visa Runs discovered that the U.S. dollar is always preferred, then the Thai baht, then the country’s own currency, the Lao kip. Even taxi drivers preferred U.S. dollars. But for some reason tuk-tuk drivers in Laos insisted on the kip.
Kyle and his mother Sandy riding a tuk-tuk to the Thai embassy in Vientiane. The expediter’s services included photocopying anything you need from your passport. And if, like me, you are booked in Vientiane for only 3 days - take the offer. Signs at the Thai embassy in Vientiane read: “NO VISA RUN” so, no chance of a 1-day turnaround. Unlike in Cambodia, I was in for the long haul. The signs also read, “SERVICES OUTSIDE NOT ENDORSED BY EMBASSY, USE AT OWN RISK,” but in reality it was faster that way. The first day, I waited outside the Thai embassy in Vientiane in an open-air, tented waiting area that was always packed. It seems as if it would be hard to cut in front of people. Oh, how innocent I was. People elbowed their way past and couldn’t care less about others; they only cared that the man at the head of the line had wasted the last 15
Thani Talk-April 2016
minutes arguing with an official, using up precious time before the embassy closed for lunch. Office hours are from 8:30am -11:30am, when you wait three hours to drop off an application and receive a number, and from 1:30pm - 3:30 pm, when applicants from the previous day can pick up their visas. Once you have a number (mine was 237), you return the next day and watch in agony as the queue numbers slowly climb. A moment of silence for number 691.
Rows of benches for visa seekers at the Thai embassy in Vientiane. After two days with a cumulative waiting time of seven hours, plus B2,000, I finally got a Non-Immigrant O visa entitling me to a single entry to Thailand and a 90-day stay. Better believe I’m sitting tight for the next three months. If you were to go to Laos for a Non-Immigrant O visa, I would suggest you plan ahead, bring more baht than you think you need, and bring backup passport photos. I had 12. Lastly, bring a patient attitude and someone with whom you don’t mind having a chat for seven hours in the heat. In the end, it all worked out. I now have the proper visa for an extended stay in Thailand, so I’m all set to explore the kingdom and stay until my sister Lacey’s ISB graduation in June. Kyle English 45
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Restaurant Review
Thani Talk-April 2016
Salad Factory: Smorgasboard of Tasty, Fresh Salads
Hidden in the bustling neighborhood of the new community mall, Bee Hive, in Muang Thong Thani is a restaurant gem called “Salad Factory” for the health-conscious crowd. I’ve been frequenting this establishment for months now with my husband, my kids and my parents. Everyone loves it! This restaurant is so busy during lunch time that recently they had to close down the place to add more space to accommodate more people. When it reopened, the restaurant was much more spacious, bright and welcoming. Their extensive menu features hundreds of dishes, both Thai and Western. You have an option of choosing to make your own salad at a starting price of only 79 baht. You can add toppings of your choice. You then select from more than 20 delicious dressings. However, since the menu offers more than 50 varieties of ready-made salads, I have yet to build my own salad. Every salad I’ve tried is delicious. I am not exaggerating! My favorites are grilled pork with Thai herb salad, Japanese-style grilled pork salad, Caesar salad and seafood wasabi salad (this dish is quite spicy, mind you). The real kicker is the portion size! If you think that you cannot be satisfied with a mere salad, think again! The salads come in a very big bowl (especially compared to the standard dish 48
size in Thailand) that would keep you full and happily satisfied. Their Thai-styled salads (Y um) are also exceptional. Even better, every time you order the spicy salad dishes, the wait staff will ask how spicy you want it to be. Never fail! They always ask. I love, love spicy grilled beef salad. They are never skimpy on the meat either. You feel like you get your money’s worth when you eat here! My husband, meanwhile, loves the pork chop. The pork chop is big. The meat is always tender and comes with Thai spicy sauce on the side. At 240 baht, the dish comes with a choice of two side dishes. The choices range from garlic bread to grilled vegetables to rocket salad! Speaking of rocket salad (normally served with balsamic dressing), they have over 20 varieties to pick from. My kids love their spaghetti dishes, especially the spicy Thai-styled one, called spaghetti bacon stir fried with dried chili and garlic sauce. They also always order an appetizer dish called “Money Bags!” Money Bags can be best described as a spring roll shaped like a bag! It’s made with chopped pork and shrimp sautéed
Thani Talk-April 2016
Restaurant Review in a special sauce, and wrapped in wonton skin. It comes with sweet and sour sauce on the side. Needless to say, choices at this little restaurant are endless. Even their drinks menu is long, ranging from coffee to smoothie to honey lemon tea. Go with friends and family and order many dishes to share. Don’t worry about the bill. Their salad dishes are very reasonably priced with the most expensive dish (pan-fried cod fillet salad) at only 240 baht. Salad Factory is very busy during lunch however. I think this restaurant is a favorite among the office people around that Muang Thong Thani neighborhood. If you are in a rush, go early (they are opened at 11 a.m.) and enjoy! Or if you don’t want to fight the crowd, dinner is their less busy time of the day. Vara Sumetanon
Address: BeeHive Lifestyle Mall, 50/1211 Moo 9, Pakkred, Nonthaburi, near Muang Thong Thani. Hours: 11am to 10pm Tel: 02-001-5659 Info: https://www.facebook.com/ saladfactoryofthailand/
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