Pattaya Today Vol 15 Issue 12 - 1-15 March 2016

Volume 15, Issue 12

1 - 15 March 2016

30 BAHT

DYNAMIC Entertainment VENUE SET FOR PATTAYA

P

attaya is to house the country’s first cinematic theatre venture, designed to attract locals and tourists to the latest technologies.

Cinematic theatre, first designed in Australia more than 13 years ago, integrates a live performance with the magic of the big screen.

The integrated use of video projection during stage scenes and scene transitions allows the stage to be alive with action, quite dissimilar from traditional cinema where the audience is largely passive.

The Thai firm Panjaluck Pasuk has teamed up with entertainment companies Scenario and Baan Rig – specializing in special effects and entertainment rigging – along with creative, multimedia and projectionmapping specialists to erect a 1-billion-baht theater for staging world-class entertainment. Located on 10 rai of land, just north of Pattaya in Nong Prue, the theatre is scheduled to open in December. The 1,400seat capacity auditorium will be called D’Luck Cinematic Theatre and is being designed by the A49 architecture firm with the contractor Ritta in charge of construction. There will also be retail space for rent on site. The total investment

is being raised by cloud funding and bank loans.

Siriwat Vongjarukorn, president of the board, said the new complex will target both foreigners and Thais in a 90-minute performance which will offer a unique experience with cutting-edge light and sound technology, fascinating story-telling and thrills from a highly experienced acrobatic team.

He added that the fusion of live performance with screen technology means that the audience experiences a multimedia flow with live action. Ticket prices will start at 2,000 baht.

“I believe in the potential of the tourism industry in Pattaya, particularly after the opening of U-Tapao Airport to commercial airlines,” continued Siriwat. “This will bring more visitors into the area, especially family groups.” But the company expects 70 percent of the customers to be Thais and has designed the project to appeal to local investors and sponsors already engaged in the Pattaya entertainment field. Panajaluck Pasuk hopes to be listed on the Thai stock market within three years and envisages cinematic theatres elsewhere in Thailand, including Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai. Initially, the company will concentrate

on improving the Thai entertainment industry rather than breaking even in the early days.

Karnkridit Nimsombun, the company’s managing director, said Pattaya was now drawing a new kind of tourist with negative images related to sex and mafias being less emphasized. “The reason we chose Pattaya,” he explained, “is the high number of Chinese, Russians, Americans and Europeans.” The theatre will

open with the live experience show Kaan, inspired by famous Thai literatures such as Ramayana, Prince Apai Mani and Krai Thong, along with the use of world-class technology and special effects. Kaan means balancing in Thai and the company believes it reflects the show’s concept of Thai style with the latest international multimedia innovation and professional design and choreography.

Continued on page 6

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Police patrol in force

Two hundred police officers, divided into six groups, were told to keep their eyes peeled for drug users and illegal trafficking of substances in and near the city centre. One man

was arrested with more than 100 packs of cigarettes. He said that he usually sold them in Bangkok but the price was better in Pattaya.

Woman goes berserk in salon

Police rushed to Soi Buakhao after concerned locals reported that a Thai woman was throwing equipment and breaking furniture at a beauty salon. Initially officers tried to break into her locked room but she proceeded to attack them with a knife.

Luckily nobody was injured in the incident. It appears that Nipatra Kulcharo, 33, had become stressed out after breaking up with her foreign boyfriend and running out of funds. A police spokesman said that psychiatric assistance was being urgently sought by the medical authorities.

Signal box scam? Loan shark demands cash

A group of men in police uniforms visited a bar on Second Road and explained they were checking the signal receiver box which is supposed to authorize watching TV programmes, including football matches, from outside the country. The strangers said they represented the Siam Media Copyright Inter Corporation and demanded that the bar owner pay 18,000 baht for a lawful receiver. But the management of the premises suspected these were not genuine officers and summoned the regular police from Soi 9 headquarters. At this point the strangers promptly left.

Police were notified that a man threatened a motorbike taxi driver with a gun because the latter had not repaid a debt in full. But Thanet Sonthana, 21, said he did not earn a fortune as a taxi man but had most definitely paid back his loan to a Mr Lak. Thanet added that his cousin, M, had a 30,000 baht loan to Mr Lak but that also has been paid with the help of M’s wife. Thanet had no idea why he had been threatened and police agreed it was a most puzzling matter.

Foreigner cheats at money exchange

Staff at a Pattaya money exchange booth found themselves 2,500 euros short after a foreign confidence trickster said he wanted to change 10,000 euros. The cashier told him the stack of bills was 100 euros short. The foreigner then demanded to count the money and agreed to add an extra 100-euro bill. He then told the cashier to hurry up and give him his Thai cash as he was in a hurry.

However, when staff counted the money again it was 2,500 euros short. Obviously, by this time, the man had disappeared with more loot than was warranted in the transaction. The following day, the same trickster appeared at another money exchange and this time the staff was short 2,800 euros. Later, the suspect was identified as Martin Wladislaw, 41, holding a Polish passport.

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News Ocean Marina Pattaya to Money Expo returns to Pattaya showcase marine assets Asia’s largest multi-class regatta and the highlight on the Gulf of Thailand’s marine calendar, the 2016 Top of the Gulf Regatta Presented by Ocean Marina is set to attract more than 600 sailors to Pattaya for its 12th edition organised and hosted by Ocean Marina Yacht Club from April 30 to May 4.

Well known for hosting international sporting and lifestyle events, Ocean Marina has been home to the regatta since its inception and brings under one event umbrella the Thailand Optimist National Championships, the Platu Coronation Cup and, for the second consecutive

year, the RS:One Asian Championship, in what has become a four-day celebration of sailing and water sports showcasing the Gulf of Thailand’s marine leisure tourism credentials.

Participants from more than 30 countries will converge on Ocean Marina Yacht Club to sail across 12 classes. The regatta are also working with charter companies to offer suitable charter boats as more international sailors seek to compete. Charter opportunities can be found at www.topofthegulfregatta.com/entry/charter.

For more information, visit www. topofthegulfregatta.com.

Pattaya Exhibition and Convention Hall (PEACH) welcomed back the 6th Money Expo Pattaya, the Eastern Seaboard’s largest financial exhibition of the year, from February 19-21.

Wisudhi Srisuphan, deputy minister of Finance, presided over this year’s opening ceremony along with other high-profile personalities including Itthiphol Kunplome, Pattaya mayor, Komsan Eakachai, Chonburi governor, Santi Viriyarangsarit, president of Money Expo 2016, Kesara Manchusree, president of The Stock Exchange of Thailand, Sara Lamsam, president and CEO of Muang Thai Life Assurance, Panga Vathanakul, managing director of the Royal Cliff Hotels Group, Pakanee Viriyarangsarit, vice president

of Money Expo 2016, and others.

PEACH’s exhibition halls and meeting rooms were filled with booths from various financial institutions pitching new monetary offerings and showcasing financial services to private and corporate clients. The event also served as a marketplace for leading financial institutions, asset management companies, real estate firms and affiliates to showcase special investment opportunities and promote their exclusive campaigns bringing together some of the leading companies in finance, investments and banking. Entertainment was provided by Thai artists CD Guntee – The Star 10, Best Titinan – The Voice 4, Tum Warawut – The Star 9, Songkran – The Voice 2 and many more.

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News Nightclub staff attack Canadian tourists Cera Havper, 27, a Canadian teacher, and her friend, Shen Arndt, 25, were crying for help at the police station after a group of five staff at Palace a-gogo in Walking Street hurt them when they refused to pay a 5,000-baht bill.

Cera reported she paid over 1,200 baht for four drinks over that night and that the 5,000-baht bill belonged to two men seated beside them, which she identified as a Thai man and an old white man who both ordered strippers. When the two men left, the bill was forced upon them and they were caught, illegally held for two hours and beaten. Cera insisted they did not order a stripper but rather only went there to enjoy the experience and the atmosphere and did not ask for anything extra other than the drinks. She added

they did not ask for a lap dance or any form of sexual interaction as she and her friend are in relationships with their boyfriends.

At the police station, Cera identified the waitress who attacked her friend, Shen, when they were walking out of the go-go bar. Upon questioning, the waitress said that the two Canadian tourists came with two men, one of which said he would go withdraw some money but did not come back. Cera denied knowing these men and explained that one man just happened to be engaging, bought them four drinks and walked out on his bill.

The Canadian tourists were on their first night of a two-week holiday to experience Thailand’s culture and fun, which she saved money for almost half a year.

Transgender injures tourist

Random taxi search

The Department of Land Transport office in Banglamung organized a random search of 171 local taxis and arrested no fewer than 60 drivers. Their offences included not having an operational meter, poor condition of the vehicle, failure to display tax discs and non-availability of fare tables and customer

A 70-year-old Swedish man was attacked in front of the Central Festival Pattaya Beach shopping mall by a roaming ladyboy in need of cash. The victim, Gustav Peter Sandstrom, was taken to hospital with a head wound and told investigators he was walking alone and suddenly felt somebody trying to snatch his bag. He refused to surrender his belongings and escaped into the complex where a security guard and a witness summoned the police.

information. All the drivers were released from police custody after paying a fine, which varied from 200 to 300 baht per person. Also involved in this crackdown were Tourist Police, army conscripts and civilian administrators from Banglamung district office.

Drivers attack Uzbeki tourist The area at the corner of Beach Road and South Pattaya Road, adjacent to Walking Street, was the scene of another troubling incident when Turev Kamol, 21 years and hailing from Uzbekistan, was attacked by a group of baht bus drivers following an argument. He later told police that he had approached one driver to take him back to his hotel, but there was a communication problem, which led to a general fracas with six or seven drivers all supporting their colleague. Kamol stated that in the general confusion he had lost his passport and about 1,000 US dollars in cash.

Baby corpse discovered Teens attack Woman robbed Russian man in her home

A garbage collector discovered the remains of an infant, with the umbilical cord still attached, in a dustbin in Central Pattaya.

The corpse had been born two or three days earlier and was taken to Banglamung mortuary for the formal processes. Police said they believed the mother was likely a teen who felt she was unable to take care of the infant. Witnesses said a strange smell coming from a pile of garbage first aroused suspicions that something was seriously amiss.

Seraei Sabanin, a 46-year-old Russian national, was attacked by youths on motorbikes near Buddha Hill in South Pattaya.

The attackers began by insulting him in the Thai language and managed to steal cash and a camera in the confusion. Sabanin fled into a neighbouring house for assistance and the thieves drove away in a hurry. He had a small injury on his leg but was otherwise physically unscathed.

Two gunmen entered a woman’s home and attacked the owner, 51-year-old Laiad Ngerntuam. They took 10,000 baht and a pickup. The victim managed to untie herself and called her son who summoned police. The robbers were described as 25 to 30 years old.

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News Lions Club Naklua daughter marries

Exhibition honours King 10 Immigration Questions Is it true there is now a landing fee of 2,000 baht?

No. Europeans, Americans and Australians are visa-exempt on arrival and continue to pay nothing for their 30 days. But citizens of India, China, Taiwan and Saudi Arabia who used to pay 1,000 baht for visa-on-arrival now pay 2,000 baht. This is admittedly surprising as these latter countries provide the most promising tourist markets at present.

A-One The Royal Cruise Hotel Pattaya was the setting for the wedding ceremony of Kittisak Piwthong and Surangkanang Petchto, daughter of the founder of the Lions Club of Naklua-Pattaya, attended by business and political guests.

Central Festival Pattaya Beach hosted an exhibition in honour of His Majesty the King displaying more than 400 artwork pieces from 200 artists. The exhibition closes on March 4.

Stickers for taxi complainers

What is the new six-month tourist visa?

A multiple-entry six-month Thai visa is now available in a traveller’s home country, subject to his or her providing a pile of paperwork. Conversely, if a traveller applies for a visa in a country other than his or her own, then a single entry is probably the only thing on offer. The Thai government believes that visitors should apply for a long visa in the country of passport or, of course, apply for a one-year visa here in Thailand.

What one-year visas are available in Thailand?

There are retirement visas for the over 50s, education visas for those wanting to study Thai, marriage visas for foreigners married to a Thai and special provisions for those prepared to invest under the Thailand Elite card.

All these options have a string of rules and regulations which can be complex for the beginner to understand.

Can you clarify the Thailand Elite card?

If you pay 2 million baht up front, you will be given a repeatable visa for 20 years. Or you can pay 500,000 baht for five years. There are also a number of other privileges such as a special lane at airport immigration lines and some discounts on goods and services such as spas and golf courses. The elite card, contrary to some rumours, does not enable you to hold land in your own name.

Do I need to have 800,000 baht in a Thai bank for retirement?

No. You can alternatively obtain a letter from your embassy confirming annual overseas income of at least 800,000 baht in foreign currency. Or you can pick ‘n’ mix, that is have some money in a Thai bank and make up the rest by an embassy income letter. But check details with the immigration authorities.

City Hall has come up with the idea of producing thousands of stickers with the call centre number 1337 to enable the general public to report problems with public transport in Pattaya. The main problems are said to be non-use of the meter, passengers dumped before the end of their journey and abusive behavior by operatives. Earlier

it had been announced by the prime minister’s office that a campaign to break up taxi mafias would concentrate on Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Samui, Phuket, Hat Yai and, of course, Pattaya. The new stickers will have text in both Thai and English and will inform passengers that they may complain if they feel the service on the roads is unfair.

Bizarre bridge continues Although Pattaya Bridge Club members have had their passports and bail money returned, they are still unsure of the future. The files are still with the public prosecutor who has the final say as regards claims by the district licensing authority that the club has operated without permission, has used too many packs of cards and has allowed alcohol to be served between the hours of 2 and 5 pm. However, the original charge of gambling – which headed the charge sheet when 30 members were detained for 12 hours earlier this month – has been dropped. The allegations of gambling had originally been made by a local person with a grudge who reported her suspicions to the anti-corruption commission.

The drama has attracted enormous international publicity

Can I renew my visa by going to a neighbouring country on a visa run?

It depends on your specific circumstances. You can no longer obtain extra time by visiting the border as you could in the past. But if you have a valid double- or triple-entry tourist or non-immigrant visa or valid re-entry permit, then you can begin the next entry as you always could. If you have 30 days on arrival in your passport and want another 30 days, then you must re-enter the country by air and not by land. Visa runs are not as simple as they once were.

What is the meaning of “Good guys in, Bad guys out?”

This is the current logo of the Immigration Bureau on its website. It means that Thailand welcomes good tourists who obey the law. The bad tourists are those who overstay, commit crimes or otherwise become a burden on the host country.

Why do I need a work permit?

Thai rules about employment are very strict. Actually a work permit is required for paid employment and also for voluntary or unremunerated activity. However, the rules are enforced selectively. Thus a foreigner acting as a volunteer police assistant or a court translator is not harassed as they are “helping” society. But it can be dangerous to teach on a voluntary basis without the required permission. If you are not sure of your own position, it’s best to contact an agency expert or the immigration people themselves.

Can I be jailed for immigration offences?

Yes. Seriously overstaying your visa can find you prosecuted and sent to prison as can working without a permit. You will likely also be served with a deportation order. The sentences are usually short but you will be detained in jail after serving your sentence until somebody pays for your air ticket back to the country of your passport. You may well be blacklisted and unable to return to Thailand for some years or even for life.

with hundreds of mainstream media articles and untold thousands of blog site comments all over the world, but especially in the UK whose nationals comprised about one third of the total arrests. Barry Kenyon, the club’s founder in 1994, said “One of the many paradoxes in this case is that Pattaya Bridge Club, small

by international standards, is now the most famous or infamous in the world. This is a truly remarkable achievement as it is closed at the moment.” Jeremy Watson, one of the club organizers, added, “The club will reopen once our legal advisers have cleared up any ambiguities with the various authorities involved.”

What effect will ASEAN have?

ASEAN is a grouping of 10 countries which set up the ASEAN Economic Community at the end of 2015. In due course it will become a free trade zone and will facilitate travel for ASEAN nationals between the various member states. As regards tourists who do not have passports from an ASEAN country, the impact is zero. Thus citizens of UK, US, mainland Europe and Australia are completely unaffected by ASEAN regulations.

Opinions expressed in this column are the author’s alone and do not necessarily represent those of Pattaya Today’s management.

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News DYNAMIC Entertainment VENUE SET FOR PATTAYA Continued from page 1

Redemptorist Center Chapel Catholic Mass Schedule

Cinematic theatre was pioneered as an art form by Brad Jennings and Steven Maxwell in Australia. Their company Markwell Presents was founded in 2002 by school teachers who were keen to integrate stage video and live performance to produce original work and to extend the horizons of educators and students who were used to thinking in a mono-artistic mode.

Cinematic theatre has now become popular in Queensland and was recently added to schools’ drama syllabuses as a contemporary style for study.

The Pattaya venture is believed to be the first commercial initiative of its kind in Southeast Asia.

Tourism commentators say that the choice of the Eastern Seaboard city is no accident as it already houses several entertainment venues

Set Design of Kaan Show

which are unique in the country. A spokesperson at City Hall said, “One of the secrets of Pattaya is that it is always offering something new to tourists and locals alike. Ventures which push forward the frontiers of the latest technology to a mass audience are already wellrooted in the local scene.”

Mazda signs Thongchai Jaidee

Daily 06:30 (English) Sunday 08:30 (Thai), 10:00 (English)

Sukhumvit Road KM145 Between North & Central Pattaya Roads

038 422 290 Celebrate Mass in the chapel built by Fr. Ray Brennan

After huge success in the Thai automobile market last year, Mazda Sales (Thailand) Co. Ltd. is ready to become a Japanese premium brand in terms of both brand and product. Following huge investments to expand production and build engine and transmission plants in Thailand last year, Mazda is embarking

on a sports marketing drive in 2016 with the first big surprise being the signing of world-class golfer and Thailand’s No.1 pro golfer Thongchai Jaidee as the first-ever SKYACTIV Technology brand ambassador.

Hidesuke Takesue, president of Mazda Sales (Thailand) Co. Ltd., said

“Mazda wants to support Thai athletes to the world level and this year we will create history for Thai sports by offering sponsorship for the first time in golf.

Thongchai’s fighting spirit is reflective of the determination of the people at Mazda who helped create the SKYACTIV technology.”

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News Elephant Parade Bangkok raises millions for charity Snap Judgment

After delighting locals and tourists over the last three months, Elephant Parade Bangkok came to a close. It has brought colour, excitement and smiles to almost 1 million people.

Some 100 brightly-coloured elephants took over the streets of Bangkok and were showcased around major sites throughout Thailand’s capital as part of the country’s largest ever open-air art exhibition.

Local and international artists and famous supporters of Elephant Parade Bangkok 2015, including movie stars, designers, DJs and models, participated in designing the 1.5-metre elephant statues to help paint a brighter future for the country’s national animal.

The potential of ASEAN

In an exciting climax to the parade, the elephants were auctioned off at a charity dinner raising more

than 10 million baht to help the plight of domestic and wild elephants throughout the Kingdom and beyond.

K-Pop food and entertainment space to open in Bangkok

First in Asia – SHOW DC, Thailand’s premier retail and entertainment mega-complex, owned by Chayaditt Hutanuwatra (middle), chairman of SHOW DC Corp Ltd., has partnered with YG FOODS of Korea’s YG Entertainment Group, represented by CEO Noh Hee Young (right). The ‘YG Republique’ Entertainment Park will be the first fully integrated K-Pop food and entertainment space outside Korea. Located on the deck of Show DC, the 550 million baht project will be a ‘DineDrink-Dance’ concept.

The new venue is expected to attract 2,000 visitors a day, while SHOW DC aims to attract 100,000 Thai and foreign visitors a day. The opening at SHOW DC is scheduled for the third quarter of this year.

Located on Chaturathit Road, SHOW DC is easily accessible by multiple road and rail transport systems close to Makkasan station of the Airport Rail Link, the MRT’s Phetchaburi and Rama IX stations. The venue is also close to the Si Rat Expressway’s Rama IX exit and the Asoke 1 entrance.

Volvo launches the V40 Cross Country D4 Volvo Car (Thailand) introduces the new V40 Cross Country D4, powered by diesel engine, the new multi-purpose car that blends strength and design, with the beautiful new color, “Power Blue Metallic.” Appealing to the new generation, the new V40 Cross Country D4 is a powerful car that drives fast, while ensuring the highest safety with cutting-edge technology.

The D4 twin-turbo engine boasts 190 horsepower and 400 Nm torque with the maximum speed of 210 km per hour and average fuel consumption rate of 20 km per liter.

Available now at all Volvo

showrooms nationwide, prices start at 2,099,000 baht. For more

information, call 02 305 4499 or visit www.volvocars.com/th.

The world’s newest economic community, the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) of 10 Asian nations, was launched at the end of last year with amazingly little fanfare. Its ultimate aim is to create a seamless economic bloc in which goods and people move with very little hindrance and where services are offered across the borders without distinction.

Taken as a whole, ASEAN’s economy has become the seventh largest in the world with 622 million people and a combined GDP of 42.4 trillion baht (2013 figures) and could well be the fourth largest by 2050 if the growth trends continue. The simple fact of the launch, despite widespread expectations of delays and the reality that much work remains to be done, suggests that the timing is right. However, accomplishing ASEAN’s ultimate vision might take quite a while yet.

A key challenge relates to the disparities in growth and the levels of development among members of the group. Singapore, for example, is an advanced economy with one of the highest levels of income per capita in the world, whilst Cambodia and Laos are emerging economies much further down the scale. Indonesia has found it difficult to implement reforms whilst Malaysia has been distracted by low oil and commodity prices. Thailand’s complex and unsure political future may be deterring investment. But the Philippines and Vietnam are looking to the AEC to maintain high growth.

Nonetheless, the 10-member states are looking to gain economic momentum by strengthening ties amongst themselves and facilitating the movement of goods and services, while boosting the levels of investment by cutting down national barriers. With economic growth in China now slowing down, many are hoping that the AEC launch will help the group maintain strong levels of growth.

China’s growth slowdown is partly attributable to rises in wages which have been linked to higher flows of investment into several ASEAN countries which have cheaper labour, especially Vietnam, Cambodia and Indonesia. The combined effect is that the slowdown of Asia’s biggest economy is not as devastating and has had some positive effect on the growth of these three ASEAN countries. On the other hand, Indonesia, an oil exporter, has seen a dramatic fall in commodity prices throughout 2015 because of the steep decline of oil prices on the international market.

Malaysia is also struggling to maintain levels of growth it needs to reach its ambition of becoming a high-income nation. The World Bank expects that the country’s real GDP growth will be 4.5 percent in 2016 and 2017, but the big hurdle is low commodity prices.

Singapore, a small nation that expects to expand its economy by providing services to less-developed countries, is also expected to record slower growth. Myanmar meanwhile – like Vietnam and the Philippines – is likely to be amongst the first to benefit from the launch of the AEC as it has cheap labour, a large population and can attract investment from investors from around the world.

Textile companies, for example, are moving strongly into Myanmar.

The Philippines has already announced that it is ready for full integration within the AEC and has been revamping itself with massive infrastructure projects (even as the main roads in Manila remain gridlocked for much of the day). It also has the youngest labour force of the ASEAN group with high levels of English proficiency, a unique advantage over its main competitors. When all the factors are weighed in, the launch of the AEC was well-timed from the Philippines’ point of view.

Thailand’s position is a little more confused. The country sits at the very centre of ASEAN as a strategic hub in every sense of the word. Its natural role is as an AEC leader but it remains boxed in by political uncertainty. It is widely expected that military rule in the country will end in mid-2017, when general elections are tentatively scheduled to be held, but investors know that there are many uncertainties ahead. Moreover, Thailand has made less good progress than its neighbours in mass English-language learning programmes – English is the official language of the AEC – and entrepreneurialism still suffers from bureaucratic choking.

Although Thailand has said it welcomes other ASEAN nationalities to work in the country in the approved employment subjects, it has yet to prove the point. For example, Filipino doctors and nurses can in theory work in Thai hospitals. However, the questionnaire and test is in Thai and there is no English translation.

The AEC is certainly very important in the medium-term future.

But a lot more water must pass under the bridge before we can be sure of the outcome which all member states are striving for.

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Our Community Amari Pattaya donates calendars to Father Ray Foundation The management and CSR committee of Amari Pattaya donated used calendars to the blind at Father Ray Foundation.

Ajima Chavalit-Thamrong (second from left), fundraising manager at Father Ray Foundation, received the calendars, which will be used as Braille code and may also be used to create picture frames to help children develop their creativity.

Rotary Club Bangkapi Children Outing

by René Clausen

The 2016 Rotary Club of Bangkapi fellowship weekend and disabled children outing in Cha-Am, Hua Hin was a three-day event that began with club president Chris Leonhard welcoming more than 120 attendees. Rotarians and spouses were joined by Rotaract Club of Webster University and the newly-chartered Rotaract Club of Stamford International University Hua Hin for a buffet dinner and live entertainment at Amari Hua Hin Hotel.

Sunday, Valentine’s Day, marked the long-awaited “Children’s Day Out at the Beach” at The Regent Cha-Am Beach Resort. More than 100 disabled children from the Sri Sangwan School for Children in Pak Kret enjoyed a day of magical games.

More than 250 participants, including kids, Rotarians, visiting Rotarians, Rotaractors, family, friends, volunteers, teachers, scouts and tourists were at the Disabled Children Outing.

New pastors at Encounter Church After 27 years as pastors in New England, USA and three years pastoral ministry in Guatemala, John and Lisa Swanner have come to Pattaya as senior pastors of Encounter Church. They combine their skills of leading and training with their passion for helping people and families “encounter Jesus in a real way,” they said. They note that their greatest joy comes when they see people discovering their purpose and fulfilling God’s will for their life. Pastor John is a 1983 graduate of Rhema Bible Training Center where he was employed as a cabinetmaker for Kenneth Hagin Ministries. He served in the US Navy and Coast Guard and has been a finish carpenter for 30 years.

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya supports Father Ray Foundation

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya led by Andre Brulhart (centre), area general manager, donated 46,264 baht to Father Peter Pattarapong Srivorakul (3rd left), president of the Father Ray Foundation, along with Ajima Chavalit-Thamrong (2nd left), fundraising manager, to show their support for disadvantaged children. The contribution was raised as part of the Christmas Tree Lighting 2015 and the resort’s sixth anniversary of support for the charity.

Amari Phuket collaborates with Patong Hospital to support cancer patients

Representatives of Amari Phuket, Richard Margo (second from right), hotel manager, Chonnanan Prakarn (right), director of Human Resources, and Suchada Thongkum (left), HR team member, visited Patong Hospital to donate the funds received from the World Cancer Day Project to Dr. Sirichai Silapa-archa (second from left), Patong Hospital director. Amari Phuket’s entire team worked to raise the funds which will be used in hospital operations to help cancer patients.

Pattaya Today's lifestyle, travel and culture guide

Vol. 04 No. 05 | Mar 1-15, 2016

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New Suzuki Ciaz RS

Facial design to regain your youth appearance

Kevin Kwan in Bangkok

automotive L5

fff L9

diversions L11

Vibrant dining & exquisite cuisine at brand-new resorts in Pattaya

by Mick and Di Barker

It used to be the case that hotel restaurants were empty, cavernous spaces full of tables and chairs and no customers. With uninspired food and poor service they seemed just an afterthought to the business of providing accommodation. The only people there were usually hotel guests too tired or timid to venture out. Today everything has changed, many of the hottest tables around the world are in hotels with non-residents now clamouring to get inside. The highest priority is now given to their restaurants which these days are presided over by executive chefs with enviable pedigrees. Such can be said for the two hotel restaurants Mick and I visited this week, “Twist” at Mövenpick Siam Hotel Pattaya and “Coco & Rum” and “Mix Bistro” at the newly opened Centra Maris Resort Jomtien.

TWIST at MöVENPICK 5-Star Luxury Overload

Way back in 1948 the late Ueli Prager, the founder of Mövenpick, started his company with one famous quote. He stated “we aren’t doing anything extraordinary, we are simply successful because we are doing quite normal things in an extraordinary manner.” It was a philosophy that revolutionized the European restaurant business and inspired a new generation of hospitality.

Today, Prager’s words continue to resonate through Mövenpick hotels and resorts as the company has reached the remarkable target of 100 hotels worldwide starting from just one restaurant in Zurich.

>> continued on L6

MIX BISTRO AND COCO & RUM at CENTRA MARIS RESORT JOMTIEN

Centra Maris Resort Jomtien is the latest addition to the Centara portfolio of hotels and resorts with 42 properties in operation around the globe. Nestled close to Na Jomtien Beach, it’s a striking structure, modern in the extreme, complete with dramatic waterfalls, bars and restaurants and a positive family-friendly ethos.

Mix Bistro was our destination to meet the general manager, Chaiphun “Jok” Thongsuthum, Chanida “Nida” Sinman, Marketing and Communications executive, and Darika “DK” Suwan, Secretary to Executive Office, and we were also pleased to be joined by Jok’s wife. The restaurant’s décor is bright, lively and open with contemporary undulating wooden features and earthy colours to enhance the touch of nature ambience that is the >> continued on L7 hotel’s unique design.

Executive Chef Asker Skaarup Bay

Mix Bistro

L2

rendezvous

Vol. 04 No. 05 | Mar 1-15, 2016

DASTA signs MOU Centara Grand Mirage team enjoy Tiffany’s Show with Department

of Environmental Quality Promotion

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya led by Andre Brulhart (6th left), area general manager, along with Sukanya Wongdornma (7th right), financial controller, and Daranat Nuchaikaew (8th right), director of Human Resources, brought hotel’s staff to the Tiffany’s Show to thank them in assisting the team and achieving the goals together.

Thai Cooking Class with Chef Yongyuth The Department of Environmental Quality Promotion signed a memorandum of understanding with the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization). They held a launch meeting to develop and support environment-friendly tourism in Pattaya City and its vicinity.

Pullman Pattaya Hotel G welcomed aspiring chefs from Michelin ROH executives to a Thai cooking class at the hotel’s Pool Bar. Recipes included green curry with chicken soup and banana in coconut milk. Conducted by Yongyuth Phianprasit, executive sous-chef, the class started off with a demonstration of each dish and then everyone began to cook by themselves, liaised closely by Chef Yongyuth. After the session, each was rewarded with a cooking class certificate from The Beach Club, a chic Thai cooking class apron and tasty main dishes with authentic Thai dessert.

Korean superstar at Centara Grand

Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa teams with US Marines

The Spirit to Serve team of Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa joined efforts with the US Marines from The LSD 48 at the Djittapawan Buddhist Temple in merit-making by cleaning up the area and painting the flagpole to beautify the surroundings.

Wim N.M. Fagel (centre), general manager of Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok, welcomed Joo Won (2nd left), South Korean actor and singer best known for his starring roles in Good Doctor, 7th Grade Civil Servant, Bridal Mask and Yong-pal.

, Pattaya

Hotel Star

INTIMATE HOTEL

397/42 Moo 10 Soi 14, South Pattaya 2nd Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel.: 03872 3349-50, 03872 3779, 03841 6678 Fax: 03841 6679 Line ID: intimatemarketing

The INTIMATE HOTEL is an outstanding boutique hotel located in Pattaya city area, adjacent to the 2nd Pattaya Road, only 5 minutes away from the Pattaya Beach, near pubs, restaurants, shopping and entertainment complexes, and popular public areas.

Chill out at this chic, natty elegance boutique hotel with style and ambiance in the heart of Pattaya that excites the living senses.

Email : reservation@intimatehotelpattaya.com Website : www.intimatehotelpattaya.com

L3

rendezvous

Vol. 04 No. 05 | Mar 1-15, 2016

Mitsubishi sponsors nationwide cycling

Mitsubishi Motors (Thailand) Ltd. sponsored mass cycling events in 22 provinces across the country under the third “Nation Bike Thailand 2016” activity.

Apart from promoting good health and environmental conservation, cycling has been recognized to have a close connection to Mitsubishi Motors’ business philosophy in pursuing the development of ecofriendly engine technology to minimize carbon dioxide emission, as well as achieve optimum fuel efficiency.

Mitsubishi Motors offers new automotive products with enhanced utilities and fully equipped features

to answer the needs of cycling hobbyists and other outdoors enthusiasts. The innovative lineup of rugged New Triton Pickups and the perpetually popular All New Pajero Sport premium SUV offer improved interiors and spacious utility cabins that store bicycles and other outdoor equipment. Mitsubishi Motors’ customers participating in the “Nation Bike Thailand” events nationwide can also enjoy the special privileges of a free reserved parking space for Mitsubishi vehicles along with registering at the fast-track desk to ensure speed and convenience for all customers.

Royal Cliff Hotels Group recognizes outstanding employees

Antonello Passa, general manager of the Royal Cliff Hotels Group, presented the Star Care Certificate of Appreciation to valued employees who have achieved multiple guest commendations and demonstrated outstanding service as well as exceptional commitment to hospitality.

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Hilton Pattaya welcomes Resort Pattaya cerebrates the Year of Monkey Chinese New Year

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya celebrated Chinese New Year 2016 with a traditional ceremony led by Andre Brulhart (centre), area general manager. Hotel management and staff prayed for good fortune for the Year of the Monkey and a dragon dance performance was organized throughout the hotel to wish hotel guests good luck, health and prosperity.

Hilton Pattaya welcomed the Year of Monkey with a traditional Chinese ceremony at the hotel lobby led

by Rudolf Troestler (4th from left), general manager, and Phatrarika Phatraprasit (3rd from left), director of Business Development, along with hotel team members. The hotel celebrated the Chinese New Year with dragon and lion dances and loud noise from the drums, all part of traditional Chinese festivities to bring good luck and scare away evil spirits.

Level 34, Hilton Pattaya

L4

events

East Coast Kitchen Open 6.00am - 11.00pm Holiday Inn Pattaya Executive Tower, level 6 Call 038 725 555

Vol. 04 No. 05 | Mar 1-15, 2016

Cool pool party at Hotel Baraquda Pattaya Hotel Baraquda Pattaya’s first pool party of the year was a resounding success with Pattaya’s party people enjoying a truly cool pool event.

Laying down some eclectic grooves from behind the decks were Bangkok spinmeisters Dennis Frost, KC and Vladim whose awesome beats and hyper-hip sets had the fun and sun seekers hitting the dance floor and demanding more throughout the hot afternoon.

The event featured an open bar, BBQ brunch and tunes around the hotel’s centrepiece crystal-clear fish-shaped pool.

holidayinn.com

eve n ts c a le n d a r HITMAN DAVID FOSTER & FRIENDS ASIA TOUR 2016 Date: 16 March 2016, Wednesday, 8 pm Venue: Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani Activities: A major music phenomenon for fans to experience the greatest timeless songs with the return of legendary songwriter and producer David Foster to Bangkok after his last concert four years ago. The Hitman will be collaborating with five world-class artists including Australian singer Natalie Imbruglia; American legend Peter Cetera; Melanie C of the famous pop group Spice Girls; contemporary music singer, songwriter and producer Richard Marx; and Gerphil Flores, a Filipino classical cross-over singer dubbed ‘Asia's Golden Girl’ on top-rated show Asia’s Got Talent. Tickets available at all branches of Thai Ticket Major.

For more information: Thai Ticket Major Tel: 02 262 3456 www.thaiticketmajor.com

2016 FEI WORLD JUMPING CHALLENGE EVENT NO.1 Date: 18-20 March 2016, Friday-Sunday Venue: Horseshoe Point Pattaya Activities: Equestrian friends are invited to the first event of the year, the 2016 FEI World Jumping Challenge – a Show Jumping and Dressage Competition.

For more information: Horseshoe Point Pattaya Tel: 038 051 676 Mobile: 083 988 7860 www.ridingschoolasia.com www.horseshoepoint.com

S2O SONGKRAN MUSIC FESTIVAL Date: 13-15 April 2016, Wednesday-Friday Venue: Show DC Oasis Arena, Rama IX Road, Bangkok

Luxe Art Exhibit opens at Novotel Suvarnabhumi Khunying Rose Boribalburiphand presided over “The Luxe Art Exhibition I: Asian Fascination” in the lobby of Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel through March 15. Organizers included Christophe Geoffroy, hotel general manager, and Apiradee Wannawongsorn, managing director of Pipadee Co., Ltd. Nine famous artists participated in the exhibit: Wattana Poolcharoen, Samrong Chanthong, Silawit Poolsawat, Anurak Namaphai, Praiya Ketkool, Rakying Khymarn, Warawut Intorn, Narongrit Galajit, and Jakkapong Thapkoa. Part of the proceeds will be donated to Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Foundation.

Activities: It’s hot, it’s wet, it’s wild! Grab your water guns, dress for battle and get soaked in the water splashing madness of the annual S2O Songkran Music Festival. Taking place through all three days of the Thai New Year (Songkran), S2O is the world’s biggest Songkran celebration, filling the warm Bangkok night with blasts of cool water, pulsating beats from the world’s top DJs and one of Asia’s most awesome and biggest productions. Pepsi presents S2O Festival 2016 lineup: Afrojack, Nicky Romero, Deorro, Quintino, Wolfpack, Ravitez, Oliver Rosa, D-Wayne, Apster, Vinai, Mak J, Soda, and Tony Junior.

For more information: S2O Songkran Music Festival Tel: 02 664 6074 ext 118 Email: info@s2ofestival.com www.S2OFestival.com

TOP OF THE GULF REGATTA 2016 Date: 30 April – 4 May 2016, Saturday-Wednesday Venue: Ocean Marina Pattaya Yacht Club Activities: Ocean Property in association with Ocean Marina Yacht Club, the regatta organizer and host sponsor, look forward to welcoming you again at the 12th Top of the Gulf Regatta. Visit the website to see the detailed program and the notice of race.

For any interest of joining as competitors, sponsors, and media partners, email your enquiry or call for more information.

For more information: Regatta Call Center Tel: 090 909 7469 Email: info@topofthegulfregatta.com www.topofthegulfregatta.com

L5

automotive New Suzuki Ciaz RS

Vol. 04 No. 05 | Mar 1-15, 2016

Eco Car with XL Feel

This week Pattaya Today tests Suzuki's newest, longest and feature-packed family car, the fourdoor sedan Ciaz RS. First impression

by John K. Lindgren the paint job. Fire Editor-in-chief: engine red? No! It's carsanook.com “Ablaze Red Pearl” in Suzuki parlance. The new Ciaz styling is understated yet sporty.

Our demo unit. Ciaz “RS” version comes with a peppy bodykit: side skirts, tail and chin spoilers. The design boasts a distinct chromed four-slat front grille with a big “S” in the center and angular headlamps. The profile reveals a high shoulder line and not too much chrome. In the rear view you'll see the prominent high mounted spoiler with integrated stop lamp. Suzuki's Ciaz rides on stunning 16-inch, gun metal color wheels rimmed with low profile tyres.

Inside the Ciaz is comfortable charcoal black leather upholstery.

The rear passenger area is spacious, especially the legroom thanks to the long wheelbase 2,650 mm. Armrest with cupholders included. The leather wrapped multifunction steering wheel and the posh chrome trim running across the dashboard and extending to door panels add upscale feel to this 675,000-baht top-of-the-line Suzuki four-door saloon.

More goodies: keyless entry, start and stop button and the top-of-the-line infotainment system named Suzuki Smart Connect with a 7-inch touch screen. This is the latest in-dash user-friendly Apple CarPlay connectivity. CarPlay is a smarter, safer way to use your iPhone in the car. CarPlay takes the things you want to do with your iPhone while driving and puts them right on your car's built-in display.

You can get directions, make calls, send and receive messages, and listen to music. Just plug in your iPhone and step on it!

The all-new Suzuki Ciaz is powered by a compact fourcylinder 1.2-liter petrol engine.

E20 compatible. The same power plant as in the popular five-door Suzuki Swift. Fuel consumption approximately 20 km per liter depending on your driving style.

Now, how big is Ciaz trunk? At 565 liters it'll actually hold more stuff than, for example, a Volvo S80's trunk. Space again, that's what the new Ciaz offers be it the passenger compartment or back in the trunk or boot as some like to say.

The drive. Not that sporty but more eco-car-ish since the dinky 1,200-cc engine is more designed for fuel saving everyday driving than performance driving.

However, the 16-inch alloys do help and there's a small button on the side of the gear lever selector. Press it and voila! You’re in “S” Sport mode. More power for overtaking. And a bit more FUN!

The Suzuki RS is priced at 675,000 baht, 50,000 baht more than the GLX and 116,000 baht more than the GL, both vehicles are fitted with the CTV automatic drivetrain. The RS, GLX, GL and GA share the same chassis and the 91-horsepower 1.2-liter petrol engine. At the price competitive entry level you'll find the manual transmission GA variant sans radio though. Price 484,000 baht – only!

Sporty driving? Well, not really.

But handsome, practical, superspacious, economical and loaded with cool features. And I do like the four-letter name CIAZ. Suzuki Ciaz.

Must be something with the “Z”.

New Suzuki Ciaz RS

Engine: 1.2-liter petrol engine (E20) Horsepower: 91 Torque: 118 Nm Transmission: Automatic 5-speed CTV Top speed: 160 kph Fuel consumption: 20 kpl Price: 675,000 baht www.suzuki.co.th

L6

top tables

Vol. 04 No. 05 | Mar 1-15, 2016

Mick & Di The Food Lovers

thefoodloverspattayatoday@msn.com

TWIST at MöVENPICK

5-Star Luxury Overload >> from L1

Mövenpick is passionate about delivering premium service and culinary enjoyment with that personal touch that defines a good establishment from a great one.

The pristine sands of Na Jomtien is now the new location for a stylish oceanfront 5-star resort under the Mövenpick umbrella.

Mick and I had been watching the advancement of this giant futuristic building sail into the sky for quite a while so it was with great excitement that we visited the other evening to review their Twist Restaurant. This is the first of three gourmet dining outlets to open, the others will follow shortly and will feature their unique T55 Grillroom inspired by New York City’s Meatpacking District and will highlight prime cuts of Americanraised beef served in a distinctive industrial design setting. La Costa Restaurant and Bar will also open shortly offering a fresh take on poolside dining with a culinary theme of Spain and Latin America and vibes to match through their creative cocktails, fusion tapas and a selection of fine wines.

Executive Sous-Chef Tofu

Trio of Marinated Salmon

Caesar Sliders

Mr. Adel Mojarrad, director of Food and Beverage, welcomed us warmly, guided us around the soon to open zones before showing us to the Twist Restaurant. This stylish contemporary eatery is the all-day dining sector (6:30 am to 11 pm) where breakfast is served either out on the palm-fringed terrace or in the cool interior. Both Thai and international cuisine is served but we were to be treated to chef’s tasting menu which considering his homeland of Denmark reflected a Scandinavian hand on the culinary tiller. The first starter to hit the table was expressed as Caesar Sliders (B.450). Here a Caesar salad had been deconstructed but with the addition of such luxury ingredients as smoked Atlantic salmon, duck breast, rashers of crisp bacon, white anchovies and delightful crisp romaine salad leaves dressed and wound together with crisp white toast in a contemporary stack. The creamy Parmesan dressing was sensational and made excellent companions with the saltiness of the anchovies, the succulence of the salmon plus the addictive sweetness of the crisp, crisp bacon. A great start to our dining and suddenly the penny dropped, “twist” of course referred to the twist that Executive Chef Asker Skaarup Bay was

spinning in his kitchen taking the quotidian and transforming it to the extraordinary.

Next to appear was a trio of salmon having been marinated three ways, with beetroot (sensationally earthy), juniper berries (splendidly tart) and pepper (aromatic) served with a trinity of tangy sauces.

We were sipping an excellent New Zealand Marlborough Ridge Sauvignon Blanc which with its zippy flavours proved the perfect pairing with the tri-marinated salmon and also with the next serving of burrata and beetroot carpaccio (B.390). This white ball of pleasure is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. The outer shell is solid mozzarella while the inside is an oozing joy of creaminess.

Accompanied by the (now) trendy beetroot, it was another sensational dish.

For our main course we were to be served charcoal-grilled Kurobuta pork fillet so elected to change to a more robust wine and were poured a Cru Monplaisir Bordeaux. This superior (75 percent Merlot, 20 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 5 percent Cabernet Franc) was a glass of delicious black fruit from the vineyards just outside the famous Margaux appellation and was a stunning glassful. Unexpectedly a

A Trio of Swiss Chocolate Desserts

pizza was then laid on the table.

No ordinary pizza this it’s thin crust came laden not only with the requisite mozzarella but also smoked duck and black truffles. Luxury overload indeed the truffles taking the pizza from fine to the sublime.

Kurobuta pork is the most highly prized pork in Japan and comes from the ancient breed of pig known as Black Berkshire and it truly lived up to its reputation, pink hued, heavily marbled and juicy it was served on a breaded disc of potato with sweetly profound pickled red cabbage and a prune reduction. Another triumphant dish to bring down the curtain on our gourmet feasting at Mövenpick Siam Hotel Pattaya – but even then more indulgencies were to come; a platter containing a trio of Swiss chocolate desserts plus a coconut crème brûlée. A scoop of internationally renowned Mövenpick ice cream

languished in a lace sugar doily, two chocolate tarts glistened beside a glass of white chocolate mousse. The accompanying dish of the richest, creamiest crème brûlée inspired with chef’s twist of young coconut and served in half a coconut were all truly inspirational components and concluded our succession of splendidly crafted dishes.

Mövenpick Siam Hotel Pattaya is located in Na Jomtien on Sukumvit Highway adjacent to Ocean Marina Yacht Club.

Twist Restaurant Mövenpick Siam Hotel Pattaya 55 Moo 2, Na Jomtien, Sattahip, Chonburi Tel: 033 078 888 Email: Hotel.Pattaya.Reservation@ moevenpick.com www.movenpick.com/en/asia/thailand/ pattaya/moevenpick-siam-hotel-pattaya

Hotel Promotions Amazing Deal at 38th Discovery Thailand from Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa is offering an exclusive promotion for Thai residents, to delight in its tropical oasis, with special room rates and a food deal at the 38th Discovery Thailand 2016 on March 3-6, 2016 at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center – Booth C334-C336.

For more information and reservations, call 038 412 120 or email pattayamarriott@minor.com.

Explore Thailand and Beyond with ONYX’s Super Savings Deals!

Local travellers and expatriates will be pampered with special accommodation deals from 28 hotels, resorts and residences under ONYX Hospitality Group, including Amari, OZO, Shama, the Mosaic Collection and Oriental Residence Bangkok, during the 38th Thai Tiew Thai (March 3-6, 2016) at Queen Sirikit Convention Centre.The price for properties in Thailand starts at 900 baht, whilst properties overseas start at 4,250 baht.

The special prices are only available during the 38th Thai Tiew Thai event at booths P150-P153 (Plenary Hall) at Queen Sirikit Convention Centre.

Net prices quoted are based on per room, per night basis, inclusive of breakfast for two. Conditions apply and subject to availability. Prices are valid for stays between March 1 and October 31, 2016. Additional charges will apply for stays on weekends, public holidays and long weekends.

For more information, visit www.onyx-hospitality.com.

L7

top tables

Vol. 04 No. 05 | Mar 1-15, 2016

thefoodloverspattayatoday@msn.com

MIX BISTRO AND COCO & RUM at CENTRA MARIS RESORT JOMTIEN

>> from L1

Mix Bistro provides all-day dining from 6:30 am to 11 pm commencing with breakfast and continuing throughout the day with Thai and international cuisine. Prices are reasonable and the ingredients are of top-notch quality. For example the Mix deluxe burger is a large patty of certified Angus beef lavishly laden with imported Cheddar cheese, best bacon, pickles, egg and home fries and is priced at only B.280 while the fish ‘n chips is a crispy, beer battered fillet of sea bass served with freshly made chips for only B.180. Moroccan style lamb shank caught our eye for a tasty plate of braised lamb redolent with Moroccan spices, apricots and almonds and served with couscous.

The Thai dishes are extremely popular, the Khao Pad clay pot rice dish with Chinese black olives, garlic and chopped pork loin already a firm favourite together with the much loved Vietnamese beef soup, Pho Hanoi.

Adjacent to the waterfall another contemporary gourmet restaurant, Coco & Rum Bar & Grill, is soon to open with an expected opening date of March 1. Chef Pie had in fact prepared our table a selection of signature dishes ahead of the gastro-premiere opening. We were imbibing the house Chardonnay, a Chilean Berri Estates vintage which was receiving praise around the table (B.150 a glass). Our first dip into the new menu (which contains the most novel section names ever) produced two savoury lollipops, sweet honeydew melon had been wrapped in premium Parma ham and the other was a crunchy crisp sphere made from a very tasty risotto. This was followed by a Bento styled wooden box filled with a selection of salad and salmon and called “Rocket Fuel” (B.250) under the Leaf Lover section. The baby rocket was fresh and vibrant while the house smoked salmon was so smooth and tender it melted in the mouth and married so well with the warm bacon and balsamic dressing. Uber crisp tacos provided yet another interesting element. “Going Loco” followed, a coconut soup beautifully infused with lots of lemongrass, Kaffir lime leaves, turmeric, enoki mushrooms and chunks of soft, almost creamy salmon. For chilli lovers there is

also another soup called “Fire in the Hotel” which is a clear spicy broth with seafood and spiced with lime, chilli and Kaffir lime. A BBQ surf ‘n turf set followed served on a heat retaining salt stone. Angus beef tenderloin was accompanied by a chubby, juicy prawn and a portion of sea bass wrapped in pancetta and presented on a bed of baby carrots, discs of roasted potatoes, snow peas and young asparagus spears.

The triumvirate of sauces were sensational, a spicy tomato salsa, a light seafood sauce redolent with garlic and a deeply robust gravy which immediately fell in love with the first-rate tenderloin. Appreciative murmurs ensured and conversation understandably came to a halt while we all enjoyed the richness of Chef Pie’s top-notch barbeque selection.

Pizzas are always a popular option and here they come in four sizes, small, medium, large and extra large. “Main elements” include a novel bucket of prawns (B.550) which are either steamed or grilled and come accompanied by spicy Thai dips and steamed rice. The “Hill & Field” section is where to go for

the Mediterranean beef kebabs, 120 days aged Australian Angus beef weighing in at 250 grams plus the grilled Cajun chicken skewers served with potato wedges.

For dessert we were back in the land of Thailand’s favourite, soft yellow mango with sweet sticky rice and coconut milk cream. Ranked amongst “Around the World in 80 Desserts” it is a heavenly concoction and a delightful conclusion to our privileged peep into the gourmet dishes that will be served at the new Coco & Rum Bar & Grill.

Centra Maris Resort is located near to Jomtien Beach. How to Get There: Leave Jomtien on the new Second Road, pass the roundabout and continue straight over the traffic lights. After the road curves around to the left, take the first U-turn and then turn left and then first right.

Signs are on the corner of the road.

Mix Bistro and Coco & Rum Centra Maris Resort Jomtien 98/2 Moo 1, Na Jomtien, Sattahip, Chonburi Tel: 038 103 333 www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centra/cmj

Rocket Fuel

VISA

BRITAIN

NEW SERVICE

Renew Your UK Passport Without Visiting Bangkok The procedure for obtaining or renewing a British passport in Thailand is now complex. We can assist you, check forms and documents and submit the application and collect the passport on your behalf.

Going Loco

Our comprehensive visa services also include: - Visas for Thais visiting all countries worldwide - Visa extensions for foreigners in Thailand - Retirement, marriage and education visas - Company registration and work permits - Marriage service and registration - English teaching and test centre

Executive Chef Pie

Mango and Sticky Rice

Successful business record for almost 20 years

VISA2BRITAIN HEAD OFFICE 183/34 Soi 13/2 Moo 10 Pattaya City, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150

Mobile: 081 754 9342 or 084 362 6574 Tel: 038 711 145 Fax: 038 710 163 Email: changvisa@gmail.com

www.visa2britain.com

L8

top tables

Vol. 04 No. 05 | Mar 1-15, 2016

F&B Promotions Sip, Savour, Lounge, and Linger

Dine & Win 2016

Sea bass fresh from the Gulf Of Thailand

at Coast Beach Bar & Grill, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya

at Havana Bar, Holiday Inn Pattaya

at Elements Restaurant, Sheraton Pattaya Resort

Havana Bar brings back one of its biggest promotions ‘Dine & Win’ in 2016. Get a chance to win the grand prize of 100,000 IHG Rewards Club points or a stay from IHG Thailand hotels and resorts and much more. Promotion will be available from February until December 2016.

For every 500 baht spent on food and beverage at Havana Bar, guests will receive one coupon to participate in a draw each month, while Holiday Inn Pattaya's Hi-Club members will receive two coupons for every 500 baht spent.

The lucky draw will be held every last Wednesday of each month (February to December 2016). Terms and conditions apply.

Stay all day and move with your mood, exploring a range of indoor and outdoor settings, right on Pattaya’s best beach with panoramic views of the coastline. Enjoy a casual lunch in the shade, experiencing an eclectic menu of international cuisine or lounge away the afternoon on a sunken daybed in the sand, steps away from the beach.

For evenings, Coast transforms into one of Pattaya’s most sophisticated dining experiences, showcasing grills and seafood. After dark, the beachside ambience becomes candlelit and alluring with a sizzling collection of cocktails.

The focus at Coast is always on views of the beach and your effortless glide through the day.

Coast is located on the beachfront of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya and is open for lunch and dinner from 10 am to midnight.

For more information or reservations, call 038 725 555.

Sea bass caught in the Gulf of Thailand is one of the favorite fish dishes of the Kingdom, where it is known as ‘plakapong’ and a creative sea bass menu is being served from now till March 31, 2016 at Elements Restaurant.

Amongst the dishes being served against a perfect backdrop of Pattaya Bay are sea bass carpaccio with soy ginger and palm-heart pickle, roasted sea bass with root vegetables, seared sea bass salad with sun-dried tomatoes, sea bass bouillabaisse, and stir-fried sea bass with garlic and black bean sauce.

Prices start from 320 baht ++ per dish.

Call 038 714 981 for reservations.

Hooters Daily Promotions at Hooters Thailand

Tantalizingly Tasty Burger Trio at Aqua Pool Bar & Aqua Bar, Mercure Pattaya Hotel Mercure Pattaya Hotel invites you to enjoy a new tantalizingly tasty and tempting menu featuring a juicy pork burger trio with grilled onions, fresh vegetables and golden French fries on the side including a soft drink at only 350 baht per set or with a beer at only 400 baht per set.

Available every day from March 1 until April 30, 2016 at Aqua Pool Bar from 8 am to 5 pm and at Aqua Bar from 5 to 10 pm.

Mercure Pattaya Hotel is located on Pattaya 2nd Road.

For further information or to reserve a table, call 038 425 050 or visit hotel@mercurepattaya.com.

Hooters Thailand offers daily promotions from 8 pm to 2 am: – Monday: All-youcan-eat chicken or cheese nachos + 1 free Moquila at 799 baht – Tuesday: All-youcan-eat BBQ ribs and a pint of Singha beer at 799 baht – Wednesday: Allyou-can-eat wings at 599 baht and 2 for 1 on Magaritas – Thursday: All-youcan-eat quesadillas at 599 baht and 2 for 1 on Margarita jugs – Friday: All-you-caneat fish and chips at 799 baht and 2 for 1 on all “Day of the Dead” shots from 11 pm to 12 am – Saturday: A bucket of Singha beer (6 bottles) + free fried jalapenos or pickles at 799 baht and 2 for 1 on all “Day of the Dead” shots from 11pm to 12 am – Sunday: All-you-can-eat burger sliders at 799 baht and all-day happy hour on drinks Hooters are open at Patong Beach in Phuket, Sukhumvit Soi 15 and Soi 4 in Bangkok and Hooters Pattaya, the newest and largest location in the world located at Pattaya Beach Road Soi 13.

Amari Phuket’s Rim Talay Restaurant launches a special seafood BBQ buffet promotion, available from now onwards and priced at 940 baht ++ per person (excluding beverage). Children under 12 years of age will get a 50 percent discount. Guests will enjoy a variety of dishes every Wednesday from 6:30 to 10 pm.

For more details on Hooters Pattaya, call 038 415 318 or book at www.hooterspattaya.com.

For more information and reservations, contact 076 340 106 ext 8027 or rimtalay@amari.com.

Seafood BBQ Buffet at Rim Talay Restaurant, Amari Phuket

For more information and reservations, contact 038 259 888 or info. pattaya@starwoodhotels.com.

Benihana Buffet Lunch at Benihana Pattaya It’s time for a spectacular start to your buffet lunch at Benihana Pattaya. Imagine the sounds of chefs cooking, guests laughing and the sizzle of succulent food on the grill.

Enjoy the best of Japanese cooking while you catch the action of the chefs as they keep you entertained until you walk out the door!

The talented chefs will cook live in front of you at the Teppanyaki stations as you enjoy a selection of fabulous food. The buffet features a great range of cuisine such as soups, pasta, salads and much more! Price is 599 baht net for standard menu and 799 baht net for premium menu.

Benihana Pattaya is located on the 2nd floor of Royal Garden Plaza.

For more information and reservations, contact Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa on 038 412 120 ext 1395.

Skate (Sting Ray) at Flames, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya invites you to try skate or sting ray. Enjoy this month’s catch as the chefs feature this mild-flavoured fish sautéed or grilled and served with an array of local ingredients.

Flames Restaurant is located on the beachfront of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya and opens daily from 6 am to 11 pm.

Call 038 714 981 for reservations.

For food promotions please email press release at lifeandleisure@pattayatoday.net

L9

fairness-fitness-finery Facial design to regain your youth appearance

Vol. 04 No. 05 | Mar 1-15, 2016

by Thonglor Clinic

With the modern advances of cosmetic medicine, it is now easier to regain our youth or at least slow down the aging process. A healthier lifestyle definitely helps but other tools are available.

We are constantly exposed to stresses and toxic chemicals via either our environment or from the food and beverages we consume.

Sometimes even water appears innocuous but can contain harmful chemicals as is often reported on the news.

Our foods are now heavily processed and contain all sorts of additives, preservatives and colorants. Over time all these accumulate in our body and end up causing different disease processes.

Chelation therapy, an intravenous injection of Calcium EDTA combined with vitamin supplements in a saline solution, will help in removing heavy metal toxins and different harmful chemicals. Fish is a good source of protein but quite often can contain mercury or other heavy metals.

Polluted air also contains a lot of toxins.

Analyzing our diet carefully helps to identify deficiencies.

Vitamin supplements can then help rebalance our bodies.

Discussing your lifestyle, a physician can identify the pitfalls and suggest how to correct these.

A healthy person will always

“Sell-by” and “best-before” labels on food containers are meant to indicate when those items are at their freshest—not when they must be thrown out. Unfortunately, consumers widely misinterpret these label dates on store-bought foods in cans, bottles and packages as indicators of safety and unnecessarily discard perfectly edible food.

radiate more than someone that just survives on a poor diet and excessive lifestyle.

Once you are on the right path then it becomes easier to return your youthful appearance.

Many tools are at the disposition of your doctor. Laser treatments can help to rejuvenate the superficial layers of the skin. Skin imperfections can be removed using lasers.

Most people are familiar with Botox to remove or attenuate wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid injections can help to replump areas where collagen has long gone. Skin

sagginess can be reduced with these injections.

Skilled doctors are now more and more using a very popular form of treatment: thread lifting. Different types of threads are available on the market and these are inserted in grid fashion to promote collagen deposit and promote a lifting effect in the sagging areas of the face or neck.

Even hands can be rejuvenated via these processes.

These threads are made of absorbable synthetic suture material that is commonly used in regular surgeries. The art of creating dimensional lifting is very rewarding

to the patient. The maximum effect takes one to two months to be achieved and the effect can last one to two years depending on each case.

This procedure is done as an outpatient. The treatment takes one to two hours and is relatively painfree.

An anesthetic cream is usually applied for one hour to desensitize the area. Following this the skin is carefully cleaned and sterilized.

Very fine needles are then inserted in grid fashion respecting facial structures. Some more severe cases will require more than one intervention.

Thonglor Clinic offers a free consultation without obligation.

Thonglor Clinic is pleased to also welcome Dr Ann who joined our Pattaya team in early February 2016.

Dr. Ann Thonglor Clinic – Pattaya is located on Thappraya Road towards Jomtien.

Phone us to book an appointment for a consultation on 038 252 055 or mobile 086 345 6670.

L10

fairness-fitness-finery

Vol. 04 No. 05 | Mar 1-15, 2016

Spa Promotions Refresh your Skin with Summer Sorbet Scrub at Devarana Spa, Dusit Thani Pattaya For this summer holiday, Devarana Spa has prepared you to enjoy sunbath and maritime breeze with less sunburned worry through its sorbet scrub recipe. This brand new recipe scoops up your skin with the juicy cooling sensation at temperature around 15-20 degrees Celsius while refreshing your dull summer skin with its potent mixture of potatoes and citrus fruit such as strawberry, kiwi and orange and lemon.

Find your summer skin care’s buddy at all Devarana Spas in Thailand in March and April 2016.

Price is 2,500 baht net for 60-minute scrub or receive complimentary 30-minute scrub with a minimum two-hour booking.

For more information, contact Devarana Spa at Dusit Thani Pattaya on 038 371 044 or pattaya@devaranaspa.com.

Season of Love at Breeze Spa, Amari Pattaya Celebrate the season of love with decadent rose infused with raspberry to rev up the fun and romance.

Breeze Spa offers a package that includes Moroccan rose and raspberry argan oil body polish and comes complete with a 60-minute massage of your choice, plus a 500 baht credit for your next spa treatment or any spa products.

Come visit and try this promotion from now until March 31, 2016 at 3,100 baht per person.

For more information, call 038 418 418 or visit www.breeze-spa.com and www. facebook.com/BreezeSpas.

Bring Light into Your Life at eforea Spa, Hilton Pattaya This March, Hilton Pattaya’s eforea spa is offering luxury spa packages for you to freshen up your mind and soul. There are two treatments to choose from: • 2 Hours Body Retreat: Begin a body treatment with exfoliating body scrub and masque followed by the express facial and signature relaxing massage. Priced at 4,700 baht net per person and 8,000 baht net per couple.

• 2.5 Hours Essence of Beauty: Enjoy muscle relieving with hot stone massage and correcting facial at only 5,200 baht net per person and 8,900 baht net per couple.

Face Sculpting / Contouring without Surgery Facial sculpting or contouring is a technique that gives the patient an oval- or V-shaped face that is slimmer in profile, a common and popular facial slimming treatment among Asian.

I’m sure many of you have heard of Botox treatments but not many of you know that you can use Botox to get a

by Dr. Natnicha Loichuen smaller face shape. Yeah! You can use Botox to get the much-desired V-shaped face. Of course, you can also go under the knife and do the “bone-shaving” operation to make your face smaller, but it’s really painful and it takes downtime for the surgery. So it seems obvious that Botox is the best way to do it. Sure it wears off after about four to six months (some up to eight months or even a year), but it doesn’t involve anyone cutting you up and you possibly ending up with a face shape you don’t like permanently.

Botox Botox is used for three main purposes: muscle spasm control, severe underarm sweating and cosmetic improvement. But in this article we are focusing on the third use, achieved with the product called Botox Cosmetic, which contains botulinum toxin type A (the active ingredient), human albumin (a protein found in human blood plasma) and sodium chloride. The uses of Botox Cosmetic are for the temporary smoothing of

glabellar lines (also called frown lines), which are the lines between your eyebrows that can make you look tired, unhappy or angry and you can achieve a V-shaped face without undergoing surgery.



You can avail V-shaped face treatment for as low as 9,999 baht only.

For more information and to book a FREE consultation or avail promotions, call Tel: 038 411 190, 063 297 372 or visit Nicha Clinic on Pattaya Second Road (opposite View Talay Beach Condominium and Central Festival Pattaya Beach).

Go Soy for a Change Want a healthy change in your diet? Go soy.

Soy products are rich in protein, iron and compounds called isoflavones, which may help protect your heart and, according to recent research, may protect against hormone-driven cancers, including breast, lung and prostate cancer.

Eat a serving or two of soy daily, preferably in relatively whole and unrefined forms such as a cup of soymilk, a half-cup of tofu, tempeh or green soybeans (edamame) or roasted soy nuts.

You might even try baked tofu as a meat replacement in a variety of dishes, or toss it into a wok with assorted veggies for a quick stir-fry.

Keep It Short Improve your life with a daily nap, but keep it short. Napping offers adults several benefits, including relaxation, reduced fatigue, increased alertness, improved mood, improved performance, increased reaction time, better memory, and fewer accidents and mistakes. Fifteen minutes to a half hour is ideal; longer naps may interfere with nighttime sleep.

The best time to nap is eight hours after waking and eight hours before nighttime sleep, according to the University of California‒Berkeley. For example, if you wake at 6 a.m. and go to bed and 10 p.m., then 2 p.m. would be an ideal time to nap.

For more information, call 038 253 000, email pattaya.info@hilton. com or visit beeforeaspa.com.

A LITTLE LIFE

By HANYA YANAGIHARA 9780804172707 A Little Life follows four college classmates—broke, adrift, and buoyed only by their friendship and ambition—as they move to New York in search of fame and fortune. While their relationships, which are tinged by addiction, success, and pride, deepen over the decades, the men are held together by their devotion to the brilliant, enigmatic Jude, a man scarred by an unspeakable childhood trauma. A hymn to brotherly bonds and a masterful depiction of love in the twenty-first century, Hanya Yanagihara’s stunning novel is about the families we are born into, and those that we make for ourselves.

SPARK JOY: AN ILLUSTRATED GUIDE TO THE JAPANESE ART OF TIDYING

By MARIE KONDO 9781785040481 The secret to Marie Kondo’s unique and simple tidying method is to focus on what you want to keep, not what you want to get rid of. Spark Joy is Marie Kondo’s in-depth tidying master-class, focusing on the detail of how to declutter and organise your home.

L11

diversions Book Review

by John K. Lindgren

Vol. 04 No. 05 | Mar 1-15, 2016

upcoming movies at Major Cineplex The Avenue Pattaya LONDON HAS FALLEN

KUNG FU PANDA 3

Release Date Lead Actors

Director Writers

Genre

Release Date Lead Actors

Director Writers Genre

Mountaineers: Great Tales of Bravery and Conquest Author Info: Established in 1846, The Smithsonian Institution is a world-renowned research center dedicated to public education, national service, and scholarship in the arts, sciences, and history.

The Mountaineers: this well-researched coffee table book and paperback is a must read oeuvre about mountains and mountaineers. It's about walking steeply uphill, climbing, and occasionally falling off these mountains.

Tales of bravery and mountain conquest: From the world's first mountaineer "Ötzi the Iceman" whose 5,000-year-old corpse was found in 1991 in the Ötztal Glacier between Austria and Italy.

For past millennia the mountains were seen as dangerous, inhospitable and mysterious. In Central Europe, popular fear of the mountains was beginning to change by the Renaissance, with climbers such as Swiss naturalist and bibliographer Conrad Gessner defying local superstitions to scale Mount Pilatus in August 1555. The ice axe (alpenstock) was invented in 1786 by French mountaineer Jacques Balmat.

Then came the Golden Age of Mountaineering 1854-1865 in the Alps where British gentlemen mountaineers who insisted on hauling cases of vintage champagne up the Alpine peaks.

20th century, the Golden Himalayan Age with early Everest military style expeditions in 1920s and 1930s to "slaying the giant" or the first ascent of Mount Everest in 1953 by Hillary and Tenzing. 1960s and 70s with the spectacular ascents of the challenging North Faces and first climbs of K2 and Annapurna.

March 3, 2016 Gerard Butler, Aaron Eckhart, Morgan Freeman Babak Najafi Creighton Rothenberger, Katrin Benedikt Action, Crime, Thriller

In London for the Prime Minister's funeral, Mike Banning discovers a plot to assassinate all the attending world leaders.

March 10, 2016 Jack Black, Bryan Cranston, Dustin Hoffman Alessandro Carloni, Jennifer Yuh Jonathan Aibel, Glenn Berger Animation | Action | Adventure

Continuing his "legendary adventures of awesomeness", Po must face two hugely epic, but different threats: one supernatural and the other a little closer to his home.

Kevin Kwan in Bangkok Bestselling Author of Crazy Rich Asians and China Rich Girlfriend

by John K. Lindgren photo Giancarlo Ciampini

Mountaineering legends: Sir Chris Bonington the soft-spoken British climber, big wall expedition leader and South Tyrol-born, adventurer, alpinist Reinhold Messner who made the first Everest solo ascent without bottled oxygen. Both men are still alive! Plus more than 80 of the lesser-known great mountaineers—who they were, where they went, and how their expeditions shaped the course of amateur and professional mountaineering history.

Also the tragedies are from the Alps to the Himalayas are included. The deadly risks: weather, falls and avalanches. The Mountaineers is accompanied by excellent narrative, graphics and photography.

So, before you head for Everest, K2 or Annapurna. Start with some basic scrambling and trekking in Thailand. Here some peaks with vistas that are worth hiking for: Khao Chang Puak, Kanchanaburi – Altitude 1,249 meters above sea level. Around 2.5 hours drive from Bangkok.

Khao Mokoju – Standing at 1,964 meters, this is no mountain for the untrained. Mokoju is located inside Mae Wong National Park, Kamphaeng Phet Province, around 400 km from Bangkok. Five days to trek in and out.

Doi Chiang Dao, Chiang Mai – The third tallest peak in Thailand at 2,175 meters, Chiang Dao is a two-hour drive outside Chiang Mai and it takes around five hours to reach the summit.

Wanna go higher? Borneo island, East Malaysian state of Sabah there's Mount Kinabalu the highest mountain in Southeast Asia. Mt. Kinabalu's 4,095-meter elevation is half of Everest's 8,848 meters. The summit, above the clouds (spectacular view), can be reached in two days. Moderate fitness required for the relatively easy but strenuous hike partly climb. I've done it and I truly recommend it. But, I had muscle soreness for two days.

So why not start with the Mountaineers before you decide which mountain to scale.

Mountaineers: Great Tales of Bravery and Conquest by DK Publishing is available at Asia Books (Paperback Price: 795 baht).

Order online via www.asiabooks.com with free delivery anywhere in Thailand.

“They are not just crazy rich — they are China Rich!”

Asia Books, Thailand's foremost retail chain for books, magazines and newspapers, recently invited selected Thai media to interview Mr Kwan, the internationally acknowledged writer of fictionalized and true tales of the Chinese high-net-worth individuals with descriptions of gobsmacking, unbelievable luxury.

Pattaya Today meets Kevin Kwan, the urbane Singapore-born, Houston- and New York-educated Brooklyn resident.

I arrive at Asia Books Siam Paragon branch 14:30 hrs on the dot and immediately notice Kevin Kwan standing in front a circular table, two chairs, a big promotional poster and high stacks of his bestselling novels.

The 42-year-old novelist sporting ink-jet hair, designer eyeglasses, stylish prep school club blazer, gun metallic grey slacks and the Bobbington-Warton bespoke amazingly expensive looking shoes while nursing a can of red Coke.

He tells me about his background in a relaxed manner. The accent is articulate, American, East Coast. Kevin Kwan's privileged childhood in the former British island colony of Singapore where he attended the Anglo-Chinese School established 1886, a prestigious learning institution whose alumni are called the “ACS Boys”.

“My father studied architecture at Sydney University. Uncles and grandfather were merchant bankers. My mother played the piano”, Kevin says. “At age 12 I was sent to the United States, Houston”. A complete change for young Anglophile Kevin to North-American life in suburban Texas without nannies and servants”.

After obtaining a degree in creative writing from the University of Houston he moved to Manhattan to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Parsons School of Design. (“Parsons” same school Prabda Yoon attended, the scion of media personality Suthichai Yoon, co-founder of The Nation newspaper and current CEO of Nation Multimedia Group.

Kewin Kwan continues, “at Parsons I made close friends with a clique of Scandinavian fellow students.” Later I find a Nordic connotation in the sequel China Rich Girlfriend. “Guests are only allowed to sleep on Hastens mattresses stuffed with the finest Swedish horsehair.”

(Purveyors to the Swedish royal family since 1852, we’re informed via footnote, their “basic mattresses start at USD 15,000, and their top-ofthe-line 2000T will set you back USD 120,000.”)

“In 2000 after Parsons I established my own creative studio, where I specialized in producing high-profile visual projects for clients such as The New York Times, the Museum of Modern Art, Rockwell Group, and TED.com. And worked for Martha Stewart Living, Andy Warhol's Interview magazine, and M&Co, the legendary design firm founded by Hungarian-born Tibor Kalman”. Tibor Kalman typography and design influence can be seen in Kevin Kwan's own stylish and user-friendly website (www.kevinkwan.com).

Later working as a visual consultant he returned to his first love – writing. In 2013 his satirical, critically-acclaimed (Vanity Fair, The New York Times and The Guardian) debut novel Crazy Rich Asians became an international bestseller. The book is currently being adapted into a Hollywood movie.

When reading Kevin Kwan's first novel Caucasian and especially Asian readers are witnessing something extraordinary. Asians as the title indicates is the story of connected powerful AsianChinese families, dynasties from Singapore to Hong Kong, mainland China, Malaysia, Australia and Thailand. But especially the rarefied world of Singaporean "overseas" Chinese, an elite living in palatial mansions, sporting Huntsman blazers, jewelry, horology collections, matching Queen's English accents, and flying on private jets, of course. A completely different universe from the stale Hollywood “Chinaman” clichés: Bruce Lee, Suzie Wong and Jackie Chan characters.

This is only some 50 years since Mao Zedong's Red communist China and here we have new gargantuan fortunes and the players who all have an insatiable appetite for opulence and gossip, and sometimes questionable taste. Crazy Rich Asians is a novel in which everyone is a VIP, and nothing is not OTT – over the top.

The strength of the novel is in the detail of the personalities, the places, the clothes, colors and the Malay-Singapore cuisine. And the Singapore lingo “Singlish” (Singaporean English) slang “lah”, “aiyah” and “amah” always sprinkled into their conversations.

Including Cantonese slang “gweilo” that translates to “foreign devil”, in Thai vernacular “farang” meaning alien or foreigner.

Plus a goldmine of footnotes explaining the interesting Malay, Cantonese, Hokkien, and Mandarin expressions and expletives.

Crazy Rich Asians pocketbook edition includes a family tree of the Young, T'sien and Shang clans. Here you'll find the Thai branch of the Young clan: Catherine Young and Prince Taksin Aakara, M.R. Jessadabodin Aakara (James), M.R. Mahinthrathirat Aakara (Mathew) and M.R. Athitaya Aakara (Adam). Residences: Bangkok, Thailand and Lausanne, Switzerland.

The narrative is set mainly in Singapore and Hong Kong. CRA tells of the Shang family and its three competing clans. Nicholas Young, the handsome heir to one of Asia’s great fortunes, enjoys a low-key life as a History professor in New York. Unwittingly, he sparks a blaze of gossip and backbiting when he brings his US-born Chinese girlfriend Rachel Chu, professor of Economics, home to Singapore for his best friend’s wedding. There's a problem! Rachel is “ABC” American-born Chinese. Complications follow and the plot thickens...

Finally, how about translations? “Translated in a dozen languages. Now, also available in Thai hardcover version.

Scandinavian languages, not yet,” says Kevin Kwan.

“I'll contact some friends in the publishing business in Helsinki and Stockholm,” I tell Mr Kwan and thank him for the interview.

Crazy Rich Asians and China Rich Girlfriend are available at all Asia Books branches. Order online via www.asiabooks.com with free delivery anywhere in Thailand.

PATTAYA

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Starting from just THB 799 net per person,* our multi-function meeting venues feature natural daylight offering sea or garden views complete with audio-visual facilities. At the same time, check out our various options of creative themed coffee breaks for added inspiration. *Privileges: •

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Learn more at www.

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Tel: 02 200 9999 Ext. 3728

Email: dtpasmex@dusit.com

Life & Leisure is published forthnightly every 1st and 16th of the month and distributes a large number of complimentary copies to various high turn over establishments, including hotels, restaurants, hospitals, and coffee shops, and hundreds of copies are distributed via mail to the CEO’s, directors and managers of top companies across Thailand. Views of named writers are not necessarily those of the editors or publisher. The editor reserves the right to accept, reject or amend any submitted artwork, photographs, illustrations and manuscripts. LIFE & LEISURE is published by Siamese Vision Media Co., Ltd. Address: 263/119 Moo 12, Soi Chaiyapruek 2, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Phone: 038 076 062

publisher & editor Chanphen Prasinchai

printed by Print 87 Co., Ltd. Naklua, Pattaya City 20150

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For advertising please call 089 607 9850 E-mail: lifeandleisure@pattayatoday.net SEE US ONLINE at www.pattayatoday.net/lifeandleisure

Property Optimism rising in Thai hospitality sector page P4/24 >> Volume 5

What's Inside: Property

Not a Good Time for Expats!

page P2/22 Legal Advice

Foreigners’ Rights

page P5/25 Expat Money Corner The horns of a dilemna

page P5/25

Business News Coke named Thailand’s Most Admired soft drink

page P6/26

Classifieds See us online at http:// pattayatoday.net/ business-directory

page P8/28

Issue 4

1-15 march 2016

Centric Sea Pattaya Completion Party Realtors, media and invited guests gathered to celebrate Centric Sea Pattaya condominium’s completion hosted by the project developer, SC Asset, led by Krittiya Chalermpong, vice president of Marketing for High-Rise Projects, and Metha Sirirungwatthanachai, vice president of Property Development for High-Rise Continued on page 4/24 Group B.

P2/ 22

Volume 5

Issue 4

1-15 march 2016

Property

Not a Good Time for Expats!

No, it’s not a good time for Thailand’s expats, to say the least.

Thais and expats alike are struggling with the international economy, the Thai economy and the uncertain world of the future.

It is a very serious time in which many are trying to find their way in business and in their personal lives.

Democrat’ accuse me of being a fascist for liking the prime minister.

Mr. Prime Minister, I am a big fan of yours, but with all due respect, sir: One might say the honey moon is over; things have begun to change. Bit by bit, comment by comment, our leader, our

It is not a time for frivolous and/or inconsiderate actions, inasmuch as many of us seem to be struggling to cope and make our way in life…for most people, things no longer come easily.

In times like these we need great leadership….not good leadership…great leadership!

I am free and happy to admit that I was one of those who took to our leader, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, very quickly.

I liked his candor and friendliness. The first time I saw a photo of him with his lovely wife I said, “There’s a great woman;” I found her appearance and stature appealing as a country’s first lady.

When Prayut took over and within six weeks had paid off all the rice farmers, I was hooked.

“Now that’s ‘The Man,’” I said to many friends.

Recently I even had a selfproclaimed ‘American Liberal

government and our police are changing and people (Thais as well as expats) are beginning to talk, criticize and fear.

People are voicing their disapproval and anxieties for what appears to be happening to our Magic Kingdom of Thailand.

I have lived here for more than 25 years and, Damn It... this is the ‘Land of Smiles.’ If my Thai brothers and sisters lose their iconic smiles it will be a human tragedy.

The Thai military coming in and taking over went well. In my opinion, it went exceptionally well, but time has passed and things are starting to unveil. An experienced military man who has had too few years of political experience is reflecting his naïveté.

Yes, in those early days there were the occasional gaffes during interviews, and once in a while an obvious show of impatience

by Clayton Wade Managing Director

Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. clayton@premierinternational.com

with journalists, but that was seen by most as a ‘tough ole military’ personality and most of us accepted it from our leader.

But lately we seem to have graduated from gaffes to faux pas to public comments and remarks that many on the international stage find offensive and unacceptable.

Why? Because the rest of the world just doesn’t know the Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha that we in Thailand know.

But those of us who have lived abroad wonder if Prayut may be struggling between his lifelong career of being militarily absolute and now finding himself in a world of political correctness.

There have been a number of instances when the prime minister has been caught in debacles with journalists.

For instance, the time he said female tourists cannot expect to be safe in his country wearing bikinis unless they are 'not beautiful'.

He made the controversial comment following the murder of British backpackers David Miller and Hannah Witheridge in Koh Tao. "There are always problems with tourist safety," said Prayut.

"They think our country is beautiful and is safe so they can do whatever they want, they wear bikinis and walk everywhere.

"Can they be safe in bikinis... unless they are not beautiful?"

Then there was the time he was shown in a video published

by Prachatai, when he went offscript and talked about his views on women during his opening speech of an event promoting vocational education at Impact Arena.

"Everyone says we must create equality — men and women deserve the same rights and can do the same good and bad things.

Oh, if you all think so, the Thai society will deteriorate!" Prayut said, shaking his head.

"Women are the gender of motherhood, the gender of giving birth. When you come home...

Our very special thanks to Clayton Wade, managing director of Pattaya’s Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd., for preparing this Pattaya Today column.

Clayton Wade is managing director of Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd., the Eastern Seaboard’s leader in exclusive property sales and rentals, and managing director of Premier Land and Development Co., Ltd. Clayton Wade has been running Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd., with his wife, Khun Supap, for more than 20 years. He himself has been in the real estate industry for over 30 years, having started his career in the United States where he was licensed and practiced both real estate sales and property management in Seattle, Washington.

Wade is a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) and a CIPS certification instructor

who's got a wife here? Does your wife take care of you when you come home? When you're at home she's the authority, isn't she?"

Once again, a huge international blunder, even though we who live here understood his meaning. Abroad, however, his comments were interpreted as a horrible display of gender inequality coming from such a highly-positioned statesman.

This is why I am saying that it is not a good time for us expats or for Thailand. Unfortunately for all of us who live here, our Magic Kingdom is losing its spell upon the world and instead is not looking its best.

Recently, international news agencies (CNN, BBC and others)

questioning the authority of the Royal Thai Police to do this. I do question the motivation behind such police raids. And given the direction of government actions, I am left with the question that many expats are asking: Are we even welcome here anymore?

Finally, I still like the guy! Yes, I honestly like Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, and I know he has a difficult and thankless responsibility of bringing Thailand “back to happiness,” all the while being put under a microscope with journalists (domestic and foreign) constantly probing him.

From the very beginning, one of Prayut’s primary goals was returning the country to happiness.

Remember all those weekly

carried the stories about the 50 police and military personnel storming the Pattaya expats' bridge club after a gambling tipoff only to find 32 senior citizens-most in their 70s and 80s--with not one baht on the tables.

This was an embarrassment for expats who love this country so much.

More recently in both Chiang Mai and Pattaya, armed police (100 in Chiang Mai) raided entertainment venues and arrested foreigners who were not carrying their passports.

I am not challenging the laws of Thailand, and I am not

addresses as well the reports and polls that showed how much better and happier Thais were with their government, their leader and their lives.

Well, Mr. Prime Minister, may I respectfully inform you that we foreigners are not feeling as happy and as safe as in years past, and I humbly ask that you include us in your goal of returning the country to happiness.

I love Thailand and I respect your position of authority, sir; I simply hope that somehow we foreigners can once again feel safe, happy and proud of this wonderful country.

with the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in the United States. He is an instructor with the Thailand Real Estate and Business School (TREBS) and heads the International Marketing Committee as vice president for the Real Estate Sales and Marketing Association of Thailand. He also is a council member with the Gerson Lehrman Group, the New York-based international research and consulting firm, and is a registered consultant with the Coleman Research Group in Hong Kong. He has been a national panel judge with the Thailand Property Awards for almost 10 years.

Having done business successfully in the Eastern Seaboard/Pattaya area for over 20 years, Clayton Wade is known throughout the Asia-Pacific region for his public speaking and television presentations as well as

having written regularly for leading newspapers and magazines (Bangkok Post, Thailand Property Report, Tropical Homes Magazine, Real Estate Magazine Thailand, Big Chilli Magazine, Tattler Magazine, Homes and Condos Magazine, etc.).

The American-born entrepreneur is known throughout the Asia-Pacific region for his many accomplishments in promoting real estate on Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard include having been a guest speaker with several of Thailand’s top political and business figures on CNBC’s Managing Asia.

Premier Homes is Pattaya’s leader in exclusive property sales and rentals. Visit their website at www.premierinternational.com. Clayton Wade may be contacted at +(66) (81) 634-2915 or at clayton@premierinternational.com.

P4/ 24

Volume 5

Issue 4

1-15 march 2016

Property Optimism rising in Thai hospitality sector While political turmoil in 2013 and 2014 hit the hospitality sector hard in Thailand, 2015 brought renewed optimism and a record 29.9 million international travelers to its shores.

For a tourist hub like Thailand, which ranks among the top 10 preferred holiday destinations globally, the prolonged unrest in 2014 could have spelled disaster.

However, according to Mike Batchelor, managing director for Investment Sales (Asia) at JLL Hotels and Hospitality Group, the impact it had on the Thai hospitality market was barely “a hiccup”.

He believes the country’s remarkable resilience in the face of coups, airport closures and natural disasters may have played a role in minimizing the extent of the damage.

Batchelor points to increased activity from the low-cost air carriers that are flying tourists to transport hubs such as Surat Thani and U-Tapao, which in turn service popular destinations such as Koh Samui and Pattaya respectively.

Pattaya, for example, is expected to see a 13 percent rise in tourists when AirAsia connects Thailand with Chinese cities such as Nanning and Nanchang.

by JLL

Mike Batchelor Other factors likely to bump up arrivals in 2016 include the recent introduction of multiple-entry six-month visas, the re-opening of Terminal 2 at Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport and the expansion of Phuket Airport, which will increase capacity from 6.5 million to 12 million visitors a year.

In the Thailand hotel market, while the pace of recovery could be moderated by the new supply, Batchelor notes that mid-tier hotels will likely continue to do well, thanks to increased tour group activity, especially from China.

These are already seeing 70 percent occupancy rates, higher than other hotels. Bangkok, meanwhile, will have more hotel rooms this year with

Continued from page 1/21

Centric Sea Pattaya Completion Party Centric Sea Pattaya condominium is located on Pattaya Second Road. Centric Sea has a total of 999 units and comprises of three buildings, Tower A is a high-rise 44-floor building with 451 units, Tower B has 32 storeys with 463 units and Tower C with 7 floors and 85 units.

All towers have different themed design such as Sun & Star, Sea & Sail and Sand & Beach. Unit sizes start from 27.5 sqm up to 96.6 and all are fully furnished.

Amenities and facilities include communal swimming pool, 24-hour security, CCTV, keycard access, Wi-Fi, ample parking space, gym, kid’s playground, garden, laundry service, shops, restaurant and bar.

As of press time, the project is already 80 percent sold.

the opening of a further 5,500 rooms in the mid-scale segment.

Over in the luxury sector, demand is very much keeping up with supply. Around 900 new rooms are expected in Koh Samui in the next two years yet occupancy is likely to increase due to better transport connections to the island and a growing number of tourists.

On the investment side, while investors’ interest in acquiring hotels in 2016 increases, the lack of premier assets on the market will likely keep yields tight. Batchelor says, “There is a scarcity of investment-grade assets on Thailand’s hotel market, which has shifted the focus of transactions to smaller assets over 2015.” He also points out that “yields for Thai hotels

are likely to remain tight across most markets in 2016, which may prompt local Thai investors to seek investments offshore.”

Despite fewer investment opportunities, the outlook for the Thai hospitality sector in 2016 is positive. With tourist numbers steadily on the up, optimism levels are also rising.

P5 / 25

Volume 5

Issue 4

1-15 march 2016

Legal & Expat Money

LEGAL ADVICE

by Magna Carta Law Office

FOREIGNERS’ RIGHTS

The right to remain silent All suspects have the legal right not to disclose any information without the presence of a lawyer at every step of the investigation stage. The suspect must first be made aware that any statement he makes may be used as evidence against him. If the arresting officer fails to notify the suspect of his legal rights upon the arrest, it would mean that any confessions made beforehand may not be used as evidence.

Medical Treatment All suspects have the right to adequate medical treatment, if needed. If the suspect is sick before or during his confinement, the police on duty will have to escort the suspect to a hospital upon the approval of the chief of police.

Legal Counsel All suspects have the right to request competent legal counsel, to meet in private and to secure his attendance during the proceedings. If the arrested suspect cannot afford a lawyer, the court can provide one without any cost.

Bail A suspect or alleged offender is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Anybody charged with a criminal offense shall be admitted to bail for temporary release as

by Tim Whiteley

The horns of a dilemna

Whoever commits an offence shall be punished according to law; however, we cannot deny the fact that there were foreigners who were suspected of criminal offences who suffered indefensibly resulting from the lack of understanding of the law. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse. It is necessary to learn the local laws and customs before you travel because you will be left with no option but to follow them.

Warrant of Arrest and Confinement According to Thai law and procedure, a suspect can be arrested and detained for a period of up to 48 hours in the police station for thorough investigation of the offence that has allegedly been committed, provided the arresting officers have explained or informed the suspect of his offence or presented a warrant of arrest. Police may conduct searches and seizures without a warrant when they have reasonable grounds to consider that the suspect is in possession of any illegal substances or articles that may be used to commit a crime or when the crime is committed in the presence of an arresting officer.

In case the investigation is not finished in 48 hours, the police officer must request the court to grant the power for confinement extension the length of which is at the discretion of the court. Warrant of arrest and other verbal warnings are expected to be in Thai language; that is why it is essential to have an interpreter for non-Thai speakers that must be provided by the police or court for legal procedure translations.

The arrested must be given a chance to notify his family members, relatives or friends of the said arrest and the place of incarceration, and they must have visitation rights and an opportunity to talk to them privately.

Expat Money Corner

a matter of right, with sufficient sureties as prescribed by law before judgment is passed by the court of an offense not punishable by life imprisonment or death. A bail bond is one method used to obtain a temporary release of an alleged offender or accused person awaiting trial upon criminal charges from the custody of law enforcement officials, sometimes on condition that a sum of money or other form is lodged to guarantee their appearances in court on scheduled dates. If the individual is proven not guilty, or appears for imprisonment upon being found guilty, the court will order the bail bond returned on the day the judgement is read without the need to submit a request. If the alleged offender escapes, or otherwise fails to appear in court, the bail bond is forfeited.

The suspect can post bail by submitting bail a request form, either by himself or by another party, to the investigating officer which then needs to be quickly reviewed. Alleged offenders may be released without bail in less serious cases such as defamation, extortion, minor theft or injury caused in a fight. The judge will decide whether the alleged offender is eligible to be released on bail and at what cost. The minimum bail amount may vary because the amount of bail for each case is set by the presiding judge of each jurisdiction, considering each particular criminal action and its evidences. The more serious the charge is, the higher the bail will be. In Thailand, there are three categories for submitting a request for this temporary release: Request for temporary release by using assets, cash and government employment status. A written request with all the necessary documents must be submitted by a bail bondsman to the investigating officer.

The result of the bail review shall then be announced within 24 hours.

Passport Confiscation of a passport can cause serious problems.

A passport is the most important document to every foreigner, without which you may be unable to engage in any important transactions, and most crucially, you can’t leave Thailand and return to your home country.

It must be kept in mind that passports should be returned immediately after the suspect has been released on bail. Police officers have the right to seize and withhold a passport only if they have suspicion that it has been used for a criminal act or it is indeed counterfeit.

MAGNA CARTA LAW OFFICE 193/126-8 South Pattaya Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi, 20150, Thailand Telephone : 038 373735-6 MOBILE NO. : 082 479 1204 Fax : 038 373672 Email : legal@magnacarta.co.th

www.magnacarta.co.th

There is not, and probably never will be, a foolproof, onesize-fits-all answer to the dilemma of trying to produce a decent return on savings with minimal or no risk. The idea that a host of riskfree opportunities exist out there that will continually churn out never ending high returns, with no downturns, is a myth.

The conundrum is this: in order to achieve worthwhile results, money has to be placed in asset-backed investments of some sort. These come in assorted colours but all have issues generally connected with risk and/or liquidity.

Let’s take some of the hard-asset funds that performed well throughout the Great Recession. By hard asset, we mean funds that hold tangible holdings, such as property. As a strategy, they must invest up to 90 percent of the fund in their asset class because, as for everyone else, cash does not perform, so the more invested, the more likely they are to achieve a better return. This is fine until, for whatever reason, redemptions exceed subscriptions over a prolonged period, leading to a liquidity problem, i.e. they have to sell prime assets under forced conditions – not ideal. The fact that a particular fund finds itself in this position does not mean that the investments it holds are now worth less than they were previously. Excess redemptions occur for a number of possible reasons but often, in part, because investors are used to seeing a steady notch up of their fund value every month with such funds, combined with the whole short-termism thinking today, often brought about by 24/7 access to fund values, brings some to the conclusion that the first time the yields slips, it’s time to get out. This short-term view is crippling for most investments that aren’t in the bank. Were banks offering worthwhile returns on deposits, they might be an attractive option but, in today’s low interest environment, the rates they are paying are either dreadfully low or, in some cases, a minus figure.

Alternatively, the world’s stock markets beckon, and if you buy and sell the right stock at the right time, you can achieve significant results, but most investors miss the boat and tend to buy at a high and sell at a low, largely because of their lack of experience in the markets.

If you go back just a decade, or even two, you would see that those who generally made money on the markets were investors who bought blue-chip stock and held them for the long term. This is largely what Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway does, albeit on a much grander scale than almost everyone else.

As with most things, a spread of investments is desirable, but not diversification for its own sake. A mix of well-selected, different asset classes to make up a portfolio provides balance and reduces risk. Also, when deciding on your holdings, consideration should be given as to whether capital growth or income is the main objective.

Clearly, both are desirable but there is usually an emphasis for one over the other.

Important Note - This article contains general information only and is not intended to be taken as specific financial, investment, or tax advice. A personal analysis should always be obtained.

Tim Whiteley of IFA International has over 25 years as an IFA, advising international investors and expatriates, both onshore UK, and offshore in Asia.

IFA International does NOT provide discretionary portfolio management, securities advice, forex trading, or local brokerage / insurance products. The services that IFA International Group provides are for international investors and expatriates only and are not applicable to local nationals. This is NOT a solicitation to sell or market securities. Questions to the author can be directed to: timwhiteley@ifainternationalgroup.com

P6 / 26

Volume 5

Issue 4

1-15 march 2016

Business News MICE Standard Day 2016 and Awarding Ceremony of Thailand MICE Venue Standard Dusit Thani Pattaya is awarded the Thailand MICE Venue Standard Certificate

and excellent meeting facilities to cater to the needs of MICE-related events be it weddings, conventions or meetings of all sizes.

TCEB certifies Pullman Pattaya Hotel G as Thailand MICE Venue Standard

leverages highest quality MICE venues in Thailand in achieving ASEAN Standards towards entering the ASEAN Community.

Pullman Pattaya Hotel G was awarded three plates for three meeting venues, including Infinity Ballroom, Bua Chompoo and Bua Sawan Convention rooms.

from General Thanasak Patimaprakorn, deputy prime minister and minister of Foreign Affairs, at Royal Paragon Hall, Siam Paragon Bangkok.

Thailand MICE Venue Standard Award for The Bayview

Thailand MICE Venue Standard Award for Siam Bayshore

Chatchawal Supachayanont (left), general manager of Dusit Thani Pattaya, accepts the Thailand MICE Venue Standard award on behalf of the hotel from HE General Thanasak Patimaprakorn, deputy prime minister of Thailand during a ceremony hosted by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau at the Siam Paragon Hall in Bangkok. It was the second year in a row that the hotel has won the prestigious award recognizing and certifying its position as a leading MICE venue not only in Pattaya but in the eastern region as a whole. Dusit Thani Pattaya prides itself in its location, competent Events team

Pullman Pattaya Hotel G was awarded a TMVS (Thailand MICE Venue Standard) certificate by Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau. Presented by HE General Thanasak Patimaprakorn (right), deputy prime minister and minister of Foreign Affairs, to GM Sophon Vongchatchainont.

The certificate recognizes that the hotel has meeting rooms and venues that have passed TCEB assessments and criteria. The award

Siam Bayshore Pattaya has received the Thailand MICE Venue Standard award in the meeting room category by Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB).

Skander Chamakh (left), resident manager of the Siam Bayshore Pattaya, received the award

The Bayview Pattaya has received the Thailand MICE Venue Standard award in the meeting room category by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB). Chinnatip Kangwanrat (left), resident manager of The Bayview Pattaya, received the award from General Thanasak Patimaprakorn, deputy prime minister and minister of Foreign Affairs, at Royal Paragon Hall, Siam Paragon Bangkok.

Amari and OZO hotels BMW – Full ahead in 2016 win China Travel awards after record sales in 2015

Four ONYX Hospitality Group hotels in Thailand and Sri Lanka have been awarded Travel and Leisure China Travel Awards.

Amari Watergate Bangkok received the Best MICE Hotel Award, recognising the hotel as an ideal meetings and events venue. In the centre of the city, it has more than 20 event spaces and a capacity to accommodate up 1,500 guests for business meetings, banquets and weddings.

Amari Hua Hin and OZO Kandy Sri Lanka were named Best Overseas Hotels in their respective countries.

Amari Hua Hin is on a popular stretch of beaches just

by John K. Lindgren

a couple hours from Bangkok, and OZO Kandy, the newest OZO property, is set in Sri Lanka’s lush green hills and tropical tea plantations overlooking Kandy Lake.

Highlighting the “Sleep

Tightly, Wake Brightly” concept with “sleep inducing high-quality beds,” as well as a healthy breakfast, OZO Chaweng Samui received the award for Best Healthy Lifestyle Hotel.

Coke named Thailand’s Most Admired soft drink

On behalf of CocaCola, Akira Nopakunkajorn (centre), marketing manager for Sparkling Beverages, and Kamala Kannalekha (3rd from right), senior brand manager of Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola (Thailand) Ltd., received the award for Thailand’s Most Admired Brand 2016 in the soft drink category from Parames Rachjaibun (3rd from left), chief advisor, BrandAge Magazine and chairman emeritus of the Advertising Association of Thailand. Coke has been honoured with the award for 16 consecutive

years as it commands the most attention among target

consumers and is the most talked about brand.

BMW Group Thailand marks global centenary with record-breaking 10,000 vehicles sold across three marques: BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad.

Some 10,048 vehicles delivered in 2015 represent the highest sales figure yet in the history of BMW Group Thailand, as well as a recordbreaking achievement for each of the three brands.

To mark BMW Group’s 100th anniversary in 2016, they have carried the service torch further by extending vehicle warranty to cover a period of five years with unlimited mileage.

Worldwide BMW Group set a new global record with 2.2 million BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce vehicles and 137,000 motorbikes delivered in 2015 – up 6.1 percent yearon-year – retaining leadership of the worldwide luxury car market for 11 years running.

Matthias Pfalz, president of BMW Group Thailand, said, 2015 was a historic year with “another record breaking for five years consecutively.

BMW sales rose by 4 percent from the previous year to reach 7,751 cars, while MINI celebrated its first four-figure year with 1,017 cars delivered – up 10 percent year-onyear. Both figures reflect the market’s consistently strong demand for BMW and MINI products. Meanwhile, BMW Motorrad also set a new milestone with 1,280 motorcycles sold – outpacing the average growth of Thailand’s big-bike market by four times with a recordshattering 83 percent jump from the previous year.

“MINI’s landmark year finished with sales rising by 10 percent year-on-year to 1,017 cars, once again underlining the trust that Thai consumers have placed in us. The MINI Countryman

and MINI Hatch, the latter in both 3- and 5-door variants, both played key roles behind this success. Similarly, we are extending MINI’s warranty offer to five years with unlimited mileage cap in 2016. MINI Thailand is launching a special campaign for MINI lovers. Lucky customers will get the chance to win a trip to London and visit the MINI Plant Oxford where MINI originated and will be the first to experience the exclusive launch of the future MINI. “Another major highlight for BMW Group in 2015 was the sales performance of BMW Motorrad. Coinciding with the marque’s 15th anniversary in Thailand, BMW Motorrad set a new record with 1,280 motorcycles sold – an increase of 83 percent from the previous year, quadrupling the average growth of the entire big bike segment.”

P7 / 27

Volume 5

Issue 4

1-15 march 2016

Business News Nissan vehicles to be Amari Phuket takes seven produced in Myanmar international awards

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. will begin assembling new cars for the first time in Myanmar this year, in partnership with Tan Chong Motor Group. Nissan will initially use an existing Tan Chong facility to assemble the Sunny compact sedan, before transferring production to the new plant in the Bago region with a workforce of about 300 and a production capacity of 10,000 units at full production.

Nissan and Tan Chong executives joined Bago government officials to sign a land lease agreement with local representatives.

Some 200 employees are being trained at the Tan Chong plant in Malaysia as part of a knowledge-transfer initiative that will provide the local workforce with the necessary skills.

Nissan and Tan Chong will also work to enhance and expand the entire business network, which currently includes a branch office and dealers in Yangon.

Nissan's expansion in Myanmar forms part of the company's wider growth in emerging markets, which includes production in India, Brazil, Russia and Nigeria.

Demand in Myanmar is expected to grow rapidly following economic and political reforms in the country.

Nissan began selling vehicles in Myanmar in 2013. The current product lineup includes the X-Trail sports utility vehicle, Altima sedan, Navara pickup truck, NV350 Urvan van and Civilian minibus.

Booking.com award goes to Ravindra Beach Resort & Spa

Ravindra Beach Resort and Spa received the 2015 Award of Excellence from Booking.com.

The resort achieved an average score of 8.0 out of 10 on guest reviews from around the world on booking.com for 2015.

Amari Phuket’s management team, led by Pierre-Andre Pelletier (middle), vice president and area general manager–South Thailand, organised a party to celebrate the resort’s having received seven international awards in 2015: The Award of Excellence voted by Booking.com users; Best Beach Resort in AsiaPacific at the 26th Annual TTG Travel Awards; Best In Stay Elite Award by Orbitz Worldwide; Powering Global Travel Award by Gullivers Travel Associates; Kuoni Water

Champion Award for the water management system and reduced water consumption; Leading Resort Hotel of Asia Award by AHF International

Hotel Investment Submit, Beijing, China, and Brand Leader Award for General Manager Recognition by ONYX Hospitality Group.

TAT organises Street Food Makeover Festival 2016

by Tourism Authority of Thailand, www.TATnews.org

The Thailand Stylish Street Food Makeover Festival was held from February 2628, 2016 at the CentralWorld shopping complex in Bangkok.

Organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the event was designed to further popularise the consumption of delicious Thai street food amongst visitors by helping roadside vendors improve both the quality of the food as well as the design of their stalls.

The Festival featured the 30 most creative street foods in Bangkok including Phat Thai, Lap Ramen Burger, sticky rice, grilled pork, etc.

Prizes were also presented

to winners of a street food makeover contest.

The event was also supported by the Thailand Creative and Design Centre (TCDC), Scrap Lab, the design and research centre of Kasetsart University, the Thailand Chefs Association and SCG Packaging Co., Ltd. Wiboon Nimitrwanich, TAT’s executive director of Tourism Investment, said, “The Thailand Stylish Street Food Makeover Festival 2016 consists of core activities such as the street food makeover and street stall makeover contests. TAT has invited higher education institutions to submit interesting ideas and design concepts to make

street food more appealing.”

He added, “Thai street food has always been popular amongst visitors, especially the adventurous young backpackers on tight budgets.

We have also organised a special competition called “Shoot and Share” that invites visitors to share their photos of the various kinds of street food across their social media networks, and become eligible to win prizes from the sponsors”.

Thai street food is known to be delicious, hygienic and inexpensive. Increasing its popularity and attractiveness amongst visitors will meet the overall national tourism development strategy by channeling more tourism earnings to people at the grassroots of society.

P8/28

1-15 March 2016

Business Opportunities

(ptmbo-c0015)Business Partner required.50% share in busy prestigious beachfront bar on Dongtan Beach, Jomtien. 8 bedrooms, bar & restaurant, work permit available, new lease.

Call Colin on 084 350 9304 (ptmbo-sn1115)Resort for Sale. A beautiful resort set in over 2 Rai of land in a tranquil area of Pattaya, but within 20 minutes drive of the town centre. The resort comprises of 9 (nine) chalets, a swimming pool, a large clubhouse/bar/restaurant with full kitchen facilities and seating for over 100 customers + 2 staff rooms.

The land is leasehold with 11 years still remaining. The lease has been registered in a company name at the land office. The land rent is paid annually and is fixed for the full term of the lease at an exceptional rate. There is room for expansion and building permits can be obtained to build a further 9 chalets. This is a rare business opportunity and viewing is highly recommended.

The business comes with a limited company. Sale Price: THB 7.80 million.

Owner Finance Available.

Contact Sven on 087 283 5349, Email: sven.tbac@ gmail.com.

Services Provided

(ptmsp-kp1815)New Storages & Warehouses & Lockers for Rent.Short/ Long Term okay. Located in South Pattaya. Start from 600BHT/Month!

Call 081 107 1717 www.

WonderStorage.com Magna Carta Law Office can assist you in securing loans from 1 million up through various financial

Classified

institutions with no credit checks or black marks and no penalty for a bad credit history. All loans are secured against either land or property and we are able to lend you up to 50% of the appraised valuation of your asset. The funds will be available around 10 days from the start of the application. Loans can be for a period of 6 months to 1 year and can be extended for longer if needed. Call either 038-373735 or 081-9833620 to make an appointment.

N.P. Poolshop. Swimming pool equipment sales and service, maintenance, fitting.

Problem solving and repairs, all that you need for your pool, pumps filters, salt water chlorinators, chemicals etc. call or visit us for your competitive quote. Open mon. – fri 9 am. To 4 pm.

We are easy to find, leaving Pattaya use Sukumvit North, turn right at Road 36 towards Rayong for 1.5 kms. Turn left at 7-11, 100 meters turn left Soi 1, we are 80 meters on the left. Phone English Nittaya 087 065 6929 or 081 004 4971 email: nppools580@gmail.com 35/1 Nongplalai Service for set-up c o m p a n y, a c c o u n t i n g , balance sheet, visa, work permit, application of social security. Contact Korawit Accounting Co., Ltd. 084 754 4214 Nattakit Construction Renovation Company. Need office, home, garden, swimming pool improvements? Very reliable contractor, high quality standard job with reasonable price. Please call 038 373 145 (English), 086 831 8879 or 087 509 0102 (Thai)

PAC Co., Ltd. Can renovate your condo at a very reasonable price with very good standard of work. Ring 087 139 1539 for estimates Eng, 087 150 4845 Thai I f Yo u a re H a v i n g a P r o b l e m w i t h Yo u r Computer either software orhardware,please phone 0868202577 or 0972549072 (Thai &Eng). I will go to service at your place.

WORACHAI AIR Services o ff e r e d : A i r- c o n d i t i o n installation, cleaning, and repair. Refrigerator repair.

Call 089 513 7826 or 087 149 4976 (Khun Pom)

Education & Training

(pta-tk0008)Do you want to Study Thai Language or Thai Culture in Fun & Easy Way? Come to Thankful Knowledge Learning Center. Learn with the native professional teachers. Affordable price & friendly environment call 038 373 175 or 038 416 493.

Houses for Sale

Pool Villa for Sale in Silk Road Place. Best Place to Live & Invest. Swiss owner selling his very nice corner plot pool villa. Great facilities include top security, automatic gate, communal swimming pool, tennis court, kids’ playground, gym. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. 94 sq.wa. Please call 090 130 9302. Price: 8.9 million baht neg.

B e a u t i f u l 5 - B e d ro o m villa w/pool in a very popular village in Jomtien 28,500,000 baht. 1,000 sqm land area, house is around 380sqm,with tropical garden, for more inquiries pls. contact Panida (thai) 083 909 7822 or Edward (eng) 081 491 8406, or you can e-mail us at info@4wallsthailand.com Luxurious 4-Bedroom house w/ pool near Mabprachan lake16,500,000 baht.

Includes 2 living rooms and a European-style kitchen, for inquiries please contact Panida(thai) 083 909 7822 or Edward(eng) 081 491 8406, you can also e-mail us at info@4wallsthailand. com House with private pool in Central Park 5 Village Pattaya 6,900,000 Baht, 3 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms, around 200 sqm area, for inquiries, pls. call Panida (thai) 083 909 7822 or Edward (eng) 081 491 8406, or you can e-mail us at info@4wallsthailand. com (ptmhfs-p0000)House for Sale in Siam Country Club. Land size of 56 Talangwa. Located in Soi Pronprapanimitr, 12/1 Central Pattaya Soi Siam Country Club. Price is 2.9 Million Baht. Call 081 487 5627 for more information.

(ptmhfs-r0000)Townhouse for SALE 1.75M Soi Siam Country Club House, 2 Beds, 2 Baths, 100 sqm, 2 floors.

Call 082 479 1204 (ptmhfs-ao0000)Beautifully located 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house for sale in Casa Jomtien in the heart of Jomtien, just 100 meters from Jomtien Beach. Land size: 72 w2. Price: 10 Mill.

Baht. Facilities include communal swimming pool and tennis court. Contact Allan Ottesen on 085 697 8245 Lovely Home and Spacious in Town! Selling Price 6 Million Baht 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms/Full Basement with spacious interior of 400 Sqm interior/129 TLW of Land. Fully Furnished including a fully European Kitchen. This will not be on the market very long before it sells! For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR0855) Great Pattaya Central Home! Selling Price 8.9 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 200 Sqm/71 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6600) Beautiful Home in Jomtien Yacht Club!! Selling Price 25 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/4+1 Bathrooms, 390 Sqm/212 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR5846) Great Phoenix Lakeside Family Home! Selling Price 9.9 Million Baht 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 180 Sqm/200 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR5035) Fabulous 5 Bedrooms Lakeside Home! Selling Price 24.95 Million Baht, 5 Bedrooms/ 6 Bathrooms, 500 Sqm/ 380 TLW, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. At (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR3346)

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 076063

Stunning New 8 Bedroom Beachfront! Selling Price 65 Million Baht, 8 Bedrooms/8 Bathrooms, 650 Sqm/850 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6536) Great Family Home Near Town! Selling Price 20 Million Baht, 5+1 Bedrooms/7 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/660 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR6363) Magnificent House with a Grand Palace Style! Selling Price 75 Million Baht, 5 Bedrooms/ 5 Bathrooms, 620 Sqm/ 320 TLW, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. At (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR6686) Charming Detached House with swimming pool and lovely gardens in Wongamat Location!

Selling Price 21 Million Baht, Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathrooms, 300 TLW/300 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com. (PR6075)

Beautiful Private Home Village For Sale! Selling Price 16,000,000 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3+1 Bathrooms, 111 TLW/289 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com. (PR1158) Great Jomtien Park Villa with Very Nice Modern Furniture! Selling Price 26 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 238 TLW/500 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com. (PR4176) G o r g e o u s L a k e Vi e w Thabali Home! Selling Price 7.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 90 TLW/206 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com.

(PR4465) Great Home in the very popular Siam Royal View!

Selling Price 33 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/360 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com.

(PR4211)

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 076063

Classified Houses for Sale

A Really Unique Estate on One Rai of Land! Selling Price 27 Million Baht, 6 Bedrooms/7 Bathrooms, 1000 Sqm/440 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR5052) Wat Yan & Bangsaray Are Home Villas For Sale!

Selling Price 5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 170 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR1154) Unique and Spacious Beachside Townhomes!

Selling Price 15.9 Million Baht or 28 Million Baht for both side by side Luxury Townhomes with each having 5 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 356 Sqm/89 TLW. Great layouts high standard interior design and just a few steps to the beachfront. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR7006) Fantastic Estate Home For Sale! Selling Price 32 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/6+1 Bathrooms, 600 Sqm/291 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR4516) Magnificent Country Estate Home or Resort for Sale with Great Business Opportunity! Selling Price 43 Million Baht, 7 Bedrooms/8 Bathrooms, 700 Sqm/2 Rai 285 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR6004)

1-15 March 2016

P9/29

Houses for Rent

Thai Balinese Designed Home! Rental Price 125,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/ 5 Bathrooms, 387 Sqm/ 282 TLW, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. At (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR4606) T h e Aw a r d W i n n i n g Development Home! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 200 Sqm/102 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR1090) Luxury & Modern Home Designed! Rental Price 135,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 480 Sqm/256 TLW. This is an absolutely fantastic family close to Bangsaray beach and Cartoon Network Water Park. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR7007) First Class and Exclusive Home! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 380 Sqm./125TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR5614) Lovely Thai Bali Style Homes! Rental Price 95,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 300 Sqm/125 TLW For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6902)

Nice Rental Home near Phoenix Golf Course Area! Rental Price 85,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 420 Sqm/200 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR5086) Spacious 4 bedroom home with large private pool!

Rental Price 100,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/ 4+1 Bathrooms, 500 Sqm/ 1 Rai, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. At (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR1601) Very Impressive Nagawari Home for Rent! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 250 Sqm/98 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR2587) Baan Amphur Beachfront!

Rental Price 50,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 220 Sqm/74 TLW. For appointment and

Criminal, Civil, Labor & Family Law Consultancy Bail Bond Company Set-up Visa & Work Permit Notary Service Legal Contracts Representation at Police Station

private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6999)

Condos for Sale

Seafront condo with infinity pool, tennis - Banglamung - 153 sqm - 2 Bed, 2 bath see pictures at https://www. facebook.com/thailand. bayview - Sales: 4,000,000 Bht T: 082 122 4335 E-mail: bay.view@live.com 1 bedroom unit in Atlantis resort condo in foreign name 1,790,000. baht. 36.44 sqm, fully furnished, for inquiries, pls. call Panida (thai) 083 909 7822 or Edward (eng) 081 491 8406, or you can e-mail us at info@4wallsthailand. com Incredible Sea Views and Right on the Beachfront!

You will be impressed by this spacious 200 square meter fully furnished 2 bedroom 2 bathroom condo apartment with gorgeous sea views. It is a very good value for someone looking for a great beachfront home or a great rental property.

For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR0359)

Transfer of Property Ownership Real Estate Transactions Prenuptial Agreement Last Will & Testament Accounting Services Property Valuation Loan Assistance

SCAN THE QR CODE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

www.magnacarta.co.th CONTACT US AT

Tel: 038 373735 to 6 or 0824791204

193/126-8 South Pattaya Road Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi Email: info@magnacarta.co.th

P10/30 1-15 March 2016

Condos for Sale

Spectacular Penthouse For Sale! Selling Price 20 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 282 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR6517) Wonderfully Designed Luxury Apartment! Selling Price 9.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 134 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR5559) Charming Condo with Great Sea View! Selling Price 45 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/ 4 Bathrooms, 640 Sqm, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. At (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR1667) Spacious 1 Bedroom Pratamnak Hill Condo!

Selling Price 2.95 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 39 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR3478)

Classified

Great Sea Views and In Town Location! Selling Price 29.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 268 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR5786) Ocean front Super Luxury Condominium! Selling Price 24 Million Baht, 3+1 Bedroom/5 Bathrooms, 217 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6662) High Floor View Talay III Condo Apartment!! Selling Price 14.4 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 198 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR5075) Luxury Wongamat Beach Area! Selling Price 15.750 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 101 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR3104)

House for Sale

Beautifully located 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house for sale in Casa Jomtien in the heart of Jomtien, just 100 meters from Jomtien Beach.

Land size: 72 w2. Price: 10 Mill. Baht.

Facilities include communal swimming pool and tennis court.

Contact Allan Ottesen on 085-697-8245

Great Sea View and Well Located on Pratamnak Hill! Selling Price 6 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 95 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR6369) Wongamat Bay Sea View Apartment....This Month Huge Reduction! Selling Price is 14.375 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 210 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR3990) B e a c h f ro n t L i v i n g i n Dongtan Area Apartment!

Selling Price is 4.95 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 96 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR6646) Stunning and Gorgeous Pratamanak Area Apartment! Selling Price 6.39 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom. 68 Sqm, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR4979)

Condos for Rent

Great Marina Beachfront View! Rental Price is 70,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 157 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR5853) Beachfront Living at its Best for Rent! Rental Price is 42,000-227,500 Baht/ Month, 2-5 Bedrooms/2-5 Bathrooms, 77-450 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PRC084)

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 076063

LAND FOR SALE Wat Yan Area! Selling Price is 41,250,000 Million 16 Rai 200 Tarang Wah. (PLD0325) Phoenix Golfcouse Area! Selling Price is 12,000,000 Million 2 Rai 1 Tarang Wah. (PLD0711) Huayyai Area! Selling Price is 23 Million 31 Rai 200 Tarang Wah. (PLD0718) Bang Sarey Beach Front Area! Selling Price is 48,000,000 Million 324 Tarang Wah. (PLD0706) Soi Tungklomtanmun Area! Selling Price is 21,000,000 Million 14 Rai. (PLD0964) Sukhumvit-South Pattaya Area! Selling Price is 170,000,000 Million 6 Rai. (PLD0018) Pratamnak Beach Area! Selling Price is 96,000,000 Million 2 Rai (PLD0003) Pratamnak Beach Area! Selling Price is 76 Million 2 Rai (PLD0004) Soi Chaiyapornvithi Area! Selling Price is 40,000,000 Million 7 Rai 200 Tarang Wah. (PLD0002) Pratamnak Hill Area! Selling Price is 34 Million 1 Rai. (PLD0978) Huayyai Area! Selling Price is 1.7 Million 1 Rai. (PLD0927) Na Jomtien Beachfront! Selling Price is 60 Million 1 Rai.PLD0983) Na Jomtien Beach Area! Selling Price is 22.078 Million 122 TLW. (PLD0988)

HOUSES FOR SALE Lovely Home and Spacious in Town! Selling Price 6 Million Baht 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms/Full Basement with spacious interior of 400 Sqm interior/129 TLW of Land. Fully Furnished including a fully European Kitchen. This will not be on the market very long before it sells! (PR0855) Great Pattaya Central Home! Selling Price 8.9 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 200 Sqm/71 TLW. (PR6600) Beautiful Home in Jomtien Yacht Club!! Selling Price 25 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/4+1 Bathrooms, 390 Sqm/212 TLW. (PR5846) Great Phoenix Lakeside Family Home! Selling Price 9.9 Million Baht 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 180 Sqm/200 TLW. (PR5035) Fabulous 5 Bedrooms Lakeside Home! Selling Price 24.95 Million Baht, 5 Bedrooms/ 6 Bathrooms, 500 Sqm/ 380 TLW. (PR3346) Stunning New 8 Bedroom Beachfront! Selling Price 65 Million Baht, 8 Bedrooms/8 Bathrooms, 650 Sqm/850 TLW. (PR6536) Great Family Home Near Town! Selling Price 20 Million Baht, 5+1 Bedrooms/7 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/660 Sqm. (PR6363) Magnificent House with a Grand Palace Style! Selling Price 75 Million Baht, 5 Bedrooms/ 5 Bathrooms, 620 Sqm/ 320 TLW. (PR6686) Charming Detached House with swimming pool and lovely gardens in Wongamat Location! Selling Price 21 Million Baht, Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathrooms, 300 TLW/300 Sqm. (PR6075) Beautiful Private Home Village For Sale! Selling Price 16,000,000 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3+1 Bathrooms, 111 TLW/289 Sqm. (PR1158) Great Jomtien Park Villa with Very Nice Modern Furniture! Selling Price 26 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 238 TLW/500 Sqm. (PR4176) Gorgeous Lake View Thabali Home! Selling Price 7.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 90 TLW/206 Sqm. (PR4465) Great Home in the very popular Siam Royal View! Selling Price 33 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/360 Sqm. (PR4211) A Really Unique Estate on One Rai of Land! Selling Price 27 Million Baht, 6 Bedrooms/7 Bathrooms, 1000 Sqm/440 TLW. (PR5052) Wat Yan & Bangsaray Are Home Villas For Sale! Selling Price 5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 170 Sqm. (PR1154) Unique and Spacious Beachside Townhomes! Selling Price 15.9 Million Baht or 28 Million Baht for both side by side Luxury Townhomes with each having 5 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 356 Sqm/89 TLW. Great layouts high standard interior design and just a few steps to the beachfront. (PR7006) Fantastic Estate Home For Sale! Selling Price 32 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/6+1 Bathrooms, 600 Sqm/291 TLW. (PR4516) Magnificent Country Estate Home or Resort for Sale with Great Business Opportunity! Selling Price 43 Million Baht, 7 Bedrooms/8 Bathrooms, 700 Sqm/2 Rai 285 TLW. (PR6004)

HOUSES FOR RENT

Thai Balinese Designed Home! Rental Price 125,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/ 5 Bathrooms, 387 Sqm/ 282 TLW. (PR4606) The Award Winning Development Home! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 200 Sqm/102 TLW. (PR1090) Luxury & Modern Home Designed! Rental Price 135,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 480 Sqm/256 TLW. This is an absolutely fantastic family close to Bangsaray beach and Cartoon Network Water Park. (PR7007) First Class and Exclusive Home! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 380 Sqm./125TLW. (PR5614) Lovely Thai Bali Style Homes! Rental Price 95,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 300 Sqm/125 TLW. (PR6902) Nice Rental Home near Phoenix Golf Course Area! Rental Price 85,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 420 Sqm/200 TLW. (PR5086) Spacious 4 bedroom home with large private pool! Rental Price 100,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/ 4+1 Bathrooms, 500 Sqm/ 1 Rai. (PR1601) Very Impressive Nagawari Home for Rent! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 250 Sqm/98 TLW. (PR2587) Baan Amphur Beachfront! Rental Price 50,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 220 Sqm/74 TLW. (PR6999)

CONDOS FOR SALE Incredible Sea Views and Right on the Beachfront! You will be impressed by this spacious 200 square meter fully furnished 2 bedroom 2 bathroom condo apartment with gorgeous sea views. It is a very good value for someone looking for a great beachfront home or a great rental property. (PR0359) Spectacular Penthouse For Sale! Selling Price 20 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 282 Sqm. (PR6517) Wonderfully Designed Luxury Apartment! Selling Price 9.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 134 Sqm. (PR5559) Charming Condo with Great Sea View! Selling Price 45 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/ 4 Bathrooms, 640 Sqm. (PR1667) Spacious 1 Bedroom Pratamnak Hill Condo! Selling Price 2.95 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 39 Sqm. (PR3478) Great Sea Views and In Town Location! Selling Price 29.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 268 Sqm. (PR5786) Ocean front Super Luxury Condominium! Selling Price 24 Million Baht, 3+1 Bedroom/5 Bathrooms, 217 Sqm. (PR6662) High Floor View Talay III Condo Apartment!! Selling Price 14.4 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 198 Sqm. (PR5075) Luxury Wongamat Beach Area! Selling Price 15.750 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 101 Sqm. (PR3104) Great Sea View and Well Located on Pratamnak Hill! Selling Price 6 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 95 Sqm. (PR6369) Wongamat Bay Sea View Apartment....This Month Huge Reduction! Selling Price is 14.375 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 210 Sqm. (PR3990) Beachfront Living in Dongtan Area Apartment! Selling Price is 4.95 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 96 Sqm. (PR6646) Stunning and Gorgeous Pratamanak Area Apartment! Selling Price 6.39 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom. 68 Sqm. (PR4979)

CONDOS FOR RENT Great Marina Beachfront View! Rental Price is 70,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 157 Sqm. (PR5853) Beachfront Living at its Best for Rent! Rental Price is 42,000-227,500 Baht/Month, 2-5 Bedrooms/2-5 Bathrooms, 77-450 Sqm. (PRC084) Spectacular ‘DesignerApartment’! Rental Price is 25,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedrooms/1 Bathrooms, 104 Sqm. (PR3114) Absolutely Beachfront Apartment....Definitely a 5 Star Lifestyle! Rental Price is 90,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 350 Sqm. (PR1704) Gorgeous Penthouse Jomtien Beachfront Condominium! Rental Price is 80,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 200 Sqm. (PR0359) Ocean front Super Luxury High Rise Residence on Jomtien Beach! Rental Price 120,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/ 5 Bathrooms, 217 Sqm. (PR6662) Absolutely Finest Designed Condo! Rental Price 90,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 153 Sqm. (PR1866)

Call Premier Homes Co., Ltd. 038-231-931 and 081-634-2915

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 076063

Condos for Rent

Spectacular ‘Designer Apartment’! Rental Price is 25,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedrooms/1 Bathrooms, 104 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR3114) Absolutely Beachfront Apartment....Definitely a 5 Star Lifestyle! Rental Price is 90,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 350 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR1704) Gorgeous Penthouse Jomtien Beachfront Condominium! Rental Price is 80,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 200 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR0359) Ocean front Super Luxury High Rise Residence on Jomtien Beach! Rental Price 120,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/ 5 Bathrooms, 217 Sqm, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. At (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6662) Absolutely Finest Designed Condo! Rental Price 90,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 153 Sqm. For

Classified

appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR1866)

Land for Sale

Wat Yan Area! Selling Price is 41,250,000 Million 16 Rai 200 Tarang Wah For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0325) Phoenix Golfcouse Area!

Selling Price is 12,000,000 Million 2 Rai 1 Tarang Wah For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0711) Huayyai Area! Selling Price is 23 Million 31 Rai 200 Tarang Wah For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0718) Bang Sarey Beach Front Area! Selling Price is 48,000,000 Million 324 Tarang Wah For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0706) S o i Tu n g k l o m t a n m u n Area! Selling Price is 21,000,000 Million 14 Rai

HIRING: MARKETING STAFF. We are looking for a person interested to join our team and be part of the most successful developer in town, Global Top Group Co. Ltd. Requirements: Thai Female, Good command in English both verbal and written. Must be enthusiastic and hardworking. Send CV/Resume jobs@globaltopgroup.com or call 090-741-7417

For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0964) Sukhumvit-South Pattaya Area! Selling Price is 170,000,000 Million 6 Rai For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0018) Pratamnak Beach Area!

Selling Price is 96,000,000 Million 2 Rai For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0003) Pratamnak Beach Area!

Selling Price is 76 Million 2 Rai For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0004) Soi Chaiyapornvithi Area!

Selling Price is 40,000,000 Million 7 Rai 200 Tarang

1-15 March 2016

Wah For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0002) Pratamnak Hill Area!

Selling Price is 34 Million 1 Rai For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0978) Huayyai Area! Selling Price is 1.7 Million 1 Rai For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0927) Na Jomtien Beachfront!

Selling Price is 60 Million 1 Rai For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0983) Na Jomtien Beach Area!

Selling Price is 22.078 M i l l i o n 1 2 2 T LW F o r appointment and private viewing, call the Premier

Solution Sudoku Issue 12 1 8 5 3 9 2 7 6 4

4 6 3 1 8 7 5 2 9

2 7 9 5 6 4 8 3 1

6 3 1 7 2 5 9 4 8

5 9 4 8 1 3 6 7 2

8 2 7 6 4 9 1 5 3

3 1 2 9 7 6 4 8 5

9 5 6 4 3 8 2 1 7

7 4 8 2 5 1 3 9 6

Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0988)

Job Vacancies

HIRING: MARKETING STAFF. We are looking for a person interested to join our team and be part of the most successful developer in town, Global Top Group Co. Ltd. Requirements: Thai Female, Good command in English both verbal and written. Must be enthusiastic and hardworking. Send CV/Resume jobs@ globaltopgroup.com or call 090-741-7417 Painter to paint our kitchen cupboards and also a carpet fitter to fit a carpet in our bedroom.Tel: 085 084 4270 The Ranch Steak House Requires Manager, Steak Chef, Steak Sous Chef, Pizza Chef, Captain, Bartender, Welcome Staff. Interested

P11 /31

call Mr Danny at 081 949 8702 Experienced Sales Person / Customer Service Wanted.

We are looking for a female who is interested to work in a property industry.

Requirements: Good written and spoken English / Chinese / Russian. Must be customer service-oriented. Must be sales driven, enthusiastic and hardworking. Send CV/Resume to john@ citygardenpattaya.com or call 0903855595.

Vehicles for Sale

(ptmvfs-1115) Ford Everest, very good condition - has been a strong and reliable family car. Well kept. Silver.

190,000km on the clock.

Manual. 2.5l diesel engine.7 seats, all with seat belts - the back 2 seats can be put up for max boot/trunk space. Roof rack. Based in Banchang, please call if you are interested in viewing/ testdrive. Price: 295,000 baht. Call 090 927 5278.

Deadline

Issue March 16-31 Please forward your classifieds by 5 PM on March 7 E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net

Fax: 038 076 063

or drop off at our office 263/119 Moo 12, Soi Chaiyapruek 2, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150

33

1-15 March 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

Youth Focus The Heart of the Curriculum

by Matthew Bolton

Two years ago I wrote about a letter that the head of Barrowford Primary School in the UK had sent to his Year 6 students as they braced themselves for the results of their end of Key Stage 2 SATS. The letter encouraged the pupils to value the talents and skills they possessed that were not measured by the tests; music, sports and languages, for example.

I don't know if this has become something of a trend in the UK, but another thoughtful letter, once again tucked-in with test results, has now gained much attention following its appearance on social media.

This latest trending epistle comes from the staff of Harmony Hill Primary School in Northern Ireland and its moving text invites the students to reflect on, and take pride in, their personal attributes.

I think it is worth quoting at some length from this rather extraordinary message: "Inside the envelope is a score. It's a score you’ve been waiting for but it might not be the score you were hoping for. If that's the case, it’s only natural that you will feel disappointed.

We will be very sorry about that and will feel disappointed 'for you' too – but we won't feel disappointed 'in you'."...

"In fact, we believe that your attitude and who you are as a person is much more important than any mark on a test."...

"That is so important. You are quite simply 'unique' and we are very proud of you."...

"Grow up to be kind, caring, generous, loving adults who make a positive difference to this world by how you live your life. Remember, the score in the envelope is just a mark for some tests. It cannot measure how amazing you are! So, no matter what happens in the next few minutes, today you must celebrate YOU!"

Now, I can imagine there will be those who would dismiss the contents of this letter as 'touchy-feely' nonsense. They would contend that education is about preparing children and adolescents for a series of important exams and that the results of those exams are the only measures that count.

However, to do so would be to dismiss the underlying principles of primary education that have held sway in the United Kingdom since at least 1944, when the famous "Butler" Education Act defined education in terms of "the spiritual, moral, mental and

physical development of the community".

This notion, far from being undermined by the new emphasis on literacy and numeracy skills that accompanied the introduction, in 1988, of a British National Curriculum, was in fact amplified. The introduction to the 1999 Revised National Primary Curriculum adopts almost spiritual language to express "a belief in education as a route to the spiritual, moral, social, cultural, physical and mental development, and thus the well-being, of the individual."

Chinese New Year celebrations at GIS Garden International School (GIS) celebrated the Chinese New Year with dim sum, dumplings and dance.

During the day, students wore red to mark the start of the Year of the Monkey and the school was decorated with paper lanterns. In the evening, the Languages’ Department organised a spectacular evening

that included traditional Chinese dance, song and fireworks! There was also a raffle, where Chinese-style prizes were handed out, and several teachers gave a demonstration of the ancient art of sword-fighting.

Mark Beales is assistant head of Secondary at Garden International School

It goes on to assert that "education should also reaffirm our commitment to the virtues of truth, justice, honesty, trust and a sense of duty."

Looking at the Harmony Hill letter in this context should, therefore, encourage us not to dismiss it but to see it as representing the true ethos of a broad-based, inclusive and community-focused educational approach that has rightly been at the very heart of the British curriculum for decades.

Matthew Bolton is a teacher at Mooltripakdee International School.

by Mark Beales

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This & That Popular Conspiracy Theories William Joyce (Lord Haw Haw from his nasal accent) was hanged at Wandsworth prison London in January 1946 for making treasonable broadcasts from Nazi Germany. The case was always controversial and remains so today, if only because Joyce

Was he really a British spy?

was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1906 and was not really British at all. However, he had mischievously claimed to have been born in Ireland – then wholly part of the British empire – when he made a British passport application in 1936 which was granted.

Thus, he was condemned to death because he held an illegally obtained British passport which meant that he, sort of, owed loyalty to the British crown. Or so a majority of the judges in the House of Lords finally decreed after a jury trial and an unsuccessful appeal.

Even Hartley Shawcross, the attorney general who prosecuted Joyce, admitted in his memoirs that the case was not one he was particularly proud of.

Most people who lied on a passport form were

Lord Haw Haw was a british double agent fined two pounds, but Joyce was hanged by the neck until dead. Also there is evidence that the prosecution were secretly tapping the phones and opening all the post which arrived at Joyce’s defence solicitor’s office. Hmm! Now 65 years after Joyce’s plunge from the trapdoor, there is some evidence that Joyce was a double agent, actually in the service of the British throughout.

As a teenage boy in 1920, then living in Galway Ireland with his parents, he acted as an informer for the Black and Tans, a paramilitary force sent in by the British to crush republican sentiment in the south of Ireland. Joyce was no stranger to spy work.

Amongst other oddities, Joyce and his wife Margaret escaped without hindrance from England to Nazi Germany just before the beginning of World War Two in 1939 and the hasty arrest of Nazi fellow travellers in Britain under Regulation 18B. Yet the supposed fascist sympathizer Joyce had been on the police watch list for years, so it’s surprising he got away so

easily. Is it possible that he was warned officially that he had better get out of the country quickly? It’s likely.

Maxwell Knight, an MI5 spy at the time, regularly visited the Joyces’ household and is presumed by many commentators to have tipped off Joyce about his impending arrest. Knight was a very odd character indeed. A successful spymaster, he was none the less an anti-Semite as well as being gay at a time when you didn’t talk about that subject. He is commonly thought to have been the inspiration for James Bond’s literary controller “M”.

Knight and Joyce were friends for years.

There’s also the mystery about why, after the war, only Joyce was tried for treason and not his wife Margaret who had likewise worked for the Germans during their Berlin sojourn 1939-1945.

Several biographers, quoting public record office files, believe Joyce made a deal with MI5 that he would take a minor rap provided that Margaret was allowed to go free. So did MI5 doublecross Joyce and let him swing?

That’s what happened anyway.

Margaret lived for some years in a London flat before dying of the demon drink in the 1960s.

And then there’s Joyce’s 82 year old daughter Heather who earlier in 2011 put her name to an application to the Criminal Court Review Commission asserting that her father was unable to be a traitor, because he was an American, and maintaining that he was a double agent for MI5 throughout the war years. If true, the claim would mean that Joyce duped both Goebbels and Hitler. Indeed the propaganda minister thought highly of Joyce and unsuccessfully tried to smuggle him out of the crumbling Reich on a submarine in 1945.

Joyce never met Hitler but was given an award signed by the fuhrer and became a Volkssturm (Home Guard) volunteer as the Russians closed in. Is it really feasible that Joyce was a double agent who fed information to MI5 during the war and was then silenced for all time by hangman Albert Pierrepoint?

Well it’s certainly true that

Joyce’s broadcasts from Germany rarely contained any useful material. By the war’s end, the listening British public were laughing at the drawling Jairmany Calling, Jairmany Calling. Perhaps Joyce never intended to be taken seriously by the British listeners.

Heather, Joyce’s daughter, says that her dad was always pro-British.

She recalls that when her father was brought back to England in handcuffs he cried out “God Bless England” when he saw the white cliffs of Dover. Admittedly, there’s no documentary proof Joyce was working for the British, but then such documentary evidence could hardly be expected to surface.

The only real pointer is that Joyce certainly maintained contact with the British intelligence services for most of his adult life: first as a spy in Ireland and later with MI5. Whether in August 1939 he fled to Germany as a potential traitor, or rather as a secret informer for Whitehall, is one of the war’s final mysteries.

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This & That Your Pattaya Horrorscope

by Professor Blunt

by Karen Burns, www.UrbaneWomen.com

How To Keep Love Strong: 7 Things You Can Do help boost the intimacy in your own marriage or relationship. You’ll become closer as a couple when you are affectionate with others.

4. Be Open About Your Differences

If you watch romantic movies, you’d think that all happy couples do the following things: take romantic trips and vacations, tell each other hilarious jokes, cook gourmet meals together, and have sex several times a day. Of course, they never have to clean house.

Relationships in real life look quite a bit different.

But the problems we face together in our daily lives actually help us create stronger relationships than all those “romantic weekends” from the movies.

Here are seven things you can do in your real life relationship to keep your love growing strong.

1. Always Be Kind To Each Other If you ever see a truly happy couple, you’ll notice that they always treat each other with kindness. And we aren’t just talking about things like helping with laundry or giving back rubs (while there’s nothing wrong with that!).

Kindness means treating your partner with respect, even when you’re arguing, and not saying hurtful or mean-spirited things. Those things hurt long after the argument is over, and can destroy a relationship.

2. Remember The Value Of Communication

(Jan23 Aquarius Feb22) With the Milky Way now shrinking rapidly, the outlook for you is extremely poor for the remainder of 2016. But your disgusting personal hygiene is making matters worse – frankly you smell. Until this problem is addressed, your sex life will be non-existent.

Pisces (Feb23-Mar22) The good news is that you are shortly going on a journey to a place you have not previously visited. The bad news is that you will be making this journey all alone. The stars suggest that your final destination will be a crematorium, the only time you have ever ridden in a Rolls-Royce.

Aries (Mar23-Apr22) Too much of anything is bad for you, so your watchword needs to be moderation at all costs until Jupiter is again in line.

This could take several decades.

But you may not live that long if you drink gin neat. Lack of tonic in the shops is no excuse.

Taurus (Apr23-May22) The only connection between you and the bull is that you are very fond of speaking it.

Be very careful not to tell strangers too much about yourself, especially if it involves your bank account, email log-in or wall safe combination.

Gemini (May23-Jun22) You will be having an impact on people who don’t know yet on Wednesday, and this will likely be a car accident or an argument about ringing the bell in a bar. Striving for perfection in your case is stupid as you are degenerate, ugly and badtempered.

Cancer (Jun23-Jul22) Be careful of accepting a favour this week until you are clear what is expected in return.

For example, there is little point in agreeing to a sexual encounter without charge if you end up drugged in a hotel room with your wallet stolen and a huge headache.

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No two people are exactly the same and all couples have their differences. You may think that these differences weaken your relationship.

But the truth is that differences are fine, as long as you know how to deal with them. Happy couples know to recognize their differences, not deny them, and look for ways to resolve their issues instead of pretending they don’t exist.

5. Equal Amounts Of Commitment We often hear that couples must be “committed” to making a relationship work, and that’s true to a certain extent. But problems arise when one partner feels more committed than the other.

The truth is that the amount of time and effort you put into making it work isn’t nearly as important as both of you putting in the same effort.

Being happy doesn’t always come from intense levels of commitment – but it does depend on a mutual effort.

6. Don’t Let Conflicts Become Confrontations

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Communicating with each other is vital to the health of a relationship. Couples who know how to communicate tend to have much stronger partnerships.

It shouldn’t be a surprise that couples who enjoy talking to each other have better relationship than those who don’t.

If you need to work on communicating, try spending a few minutes talking – really talking – right before bedtime. Catch up on your day, talk about the kids, and make plans for tomorrow or the future.

3. Go Out With Other Couples Dates with your partner are lovely, but studies done back in 2010 at Wayne State University found that couples that spend time bonding with other couples actually strengthen their own relationships.

Spending quality time with other couples can

Arguments are going to happen; you should just consider it a given.

But the couples that are the happiest manage to keep conflicts small, and don’t let them become ugly confrontations. They are able to use a softer touch when talking about difficult issues, and both are willing to give in if necessary.

7. Focus On The Good Stuff The happiest couples are much more likely to make positive comments to their partner than they are negative – even during an argument.

It can sometimes be hard to find the good in someone during a disagreement, but being able to do so creates much stronger bonds than focusing on the negative.

For additional information on romance, health, fitness, beauty, skin care, hair care and more, go to www.urbanewomen.com.

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by Madam Zyra

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Leo (Jul23-Aug22) You are far too keen on personal publicity and need to test the waters before committing yourself. Thus diving into a swimming pool without checking if it has been emptied for repairs is likely to get you on the front page of the newspapers faster than you would wish.

Virgo (Aug23-Sep22) A project or hobby could turn into a moneymaker but land you in serious trouble. An example might be starting a scout troupe without checking the credentials of the supervisors.

Passion is highlighted on Friday but, to be fair, this is likely a fruit.

Libra (Sep23-Oct22) Your secret sex life will prove to be your undoing. Your wife knows more than you think she does. On the other hand, don’t become too concerned as she is also an adulteress with a fetish which cannot be described in a family newspaper.

Scorpio (Oct23-Nov22) Take on a new challenge today and you are likely to meet somebody new. If this turns out to be a police officer, a private investigator or an armed person, then try to extricate yourself as quickly as possible. You are not scheduled to have any lucky numbers this year.

Sagittarius (Nov23Dec22) You may want to put a little adventure into your life on Thursday this week. This is fine but don’t expect too much.

If you are fat, 65 plus and poverty stricken with bad breath, you are not likely to transform your sex life during this cosmic cycle.

Capricorn (Dec23Jan22) Sit back and listen to what’s being said about you. Maybe you can’t help being a nerd but you could improve by restricting your habit of throwing water on people to the Songkran period. Try holding your breath for long periods to avoid belching in public.

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Local Sports Thai sailors sail away with championship glory

by Nima Chandler photos: Ben Montgomery

The Thailand’s Laser National Championships 2016, held over the weekend of February 21-22, 2016, was a great success. The Royal Varuna Yacht Club event in Pattaya saw sailors from across Southeast Asia set sail in a variety of competition classes, with several Thai champions crowned in the exhilarating 45-boat event.

With perfect sailing conditions and winds of 10-15 knots, 2012 Thai Olympian Keerati Bualong took the Laser Standard prize.

An impressive challenge was put up from Thai resident and Norwegian native Eivind Melleby who took first place in three out of eight races in the championship. Bualong is a six-time national champion in the competition, while Melleby was once ranked second in the world in the Laser Standard class, finishing in fourth spot in the Star class

at the London Olympics 2012.

Other notable performances were Korean sailor Kim Sang Khu who claimed bronze, as well as the up-and-coming sailing skills of young sailor Chusit Punjamala.

The proud first recipient of the Nancy Chandler Laser Radial Nationals Trophy went to the winner of the Laser Radial Class, Apiwat Srignam, whose fast sailing displayed real intuition. The award was donated in memory of renowned US artist and Thai tourist mapmaker Nancy Chandler who taught sailing to women and children at the Royal Varuna Yacht Club several decades ago.

The competition spanned many generations too, with Thai Youth Olympian Nichaporn Panmuean finishing second and the legendary sailing septuagenarian Malcolm Humphreys out-sailing many

Group photo of winners – Laser Standard, Laser Radial, Laser 4.7 sailors young enough to be his grandsons.

With a few sailors bowing out due to exhaustion, former world-champion darts player Gareth Owen contended with two ripped sails, but thankfully only missed out on one race as a result, recovering in record time. Meanwhile, Thai sailor Kamolwan Chanyim, a fourtime national champion, was unfortunately forced out of the competition due to food poisoning. A back injury took 2015 Laser 4.7 champion, Arthit Romanyk, out of action

Apiwat – Laser Radial champion presented trophy

by Kamonwan 2015 champion4.7

in the youth division, leaving close competitor Alex Frefel to claim the title after battling it out with Thai national sailor Kamonchamok Klahan, with third place going to Sachakree Detthotsapol, who both stepped up from Opti fleet.

Royal Varuna Yacht Club is due to host many leading international school sailors competing in the FOBISIA Sailing Invitational Championships from March 9-13, 2016.

For more information, visit www.varuna.org.

Alex Frefel leading to the finish line

Corey’s best at the Bay!

by Steve Ellison Green Valley – Stableford – White Tees 1st – Mark Wood (9) 40 points 2nd – Kenny Aihara (5) 39 points 3rd – Peter LeNoury (12) 37 points T-4th – John Mulrooney (11) 36 points T-4th – Masa Tojo (12) 36 points

Your best in show: Jason, Corey and Fred after Crystal Bay Just another manic Monday, as the song goes, as there was a bit of congestion today at Green Valley. Not on the road out, but in the queue to pay the green fees! Seems like the lads from The Kronbourg pulled in 2 minutes ahead of us so we drew the short straw there today as we waited for those guys to check in. Locker room anyone?

Weather was a bit muggy today as there was hardly a breeze about to cool things down.

Once we finally got out on the course, we found the greens were faster than we have seen in quite some time. Which is nice.

Some of the regulars dominated the leaderboard today as Masa Tojo looked to be the only tourist up there. Masa shares 4th spot with Johnny Mulrooney who has been in town for awhile in between caddy duties on the European Tour.

Mr. LeNoury once again graces the stage and slides into sole third place with steady Kenny taking second with his 39. It is good to see Mark Wood back to his usual fine form as a 40 is not easy to come by here. Nice going Markie, hope Mr. Ferris made it worth your while!

Crystal Bay – Stableford – Yellow Tees 1st – Corey Cusatis (23) 45 points 2nd – Fred Graham (17) 43 points 3rd – Jason Kraan (1) 40 points 4th – Andy Leach (8) 39 points We had an unusual, pounding rain in Pattaya on Tuesday afternoon and not surprisingly, the town was flooded. This is weird for this time of year as the downpour lasted for a good 3 hours. That was why the decision was made to play off the yellow tees, as we expected some soggy turf under foot and a negative roll on your drives. The course was drier than expected and the 6,140 was playing short, such is life. Dave Ferris was stationed on that first tee and announcing off the player four-balls that would have done Phil proud.

They put us out on the B track first, and then we rolled over to the A side. It has been a good five years since I have played those holes on A, and it was a very enjoyable trip down memory lane as we were reacquainted once again. This is a lovely stretch of golf and the par-3 8th is one of the prettiest around Pattaya.

All the lads were in agreement that Crystal Bay was in really nice shape and we should make a return trip back. Yes, the clubhouse and changing rooms are a letdown, but at least the showers were nice and clean with plenty of hot water. Don’t forget that the 1,550 baht price tag includes your buggy as well! Such a deal!

It was a day of higher scoring than usual so let’s get on with it. Last on the list should hold his head high, and Andy Leach had a great 39 points to find himself only in 4th place! This is not a misprint. Next up comes Jason Kraan, the young Australian pro playing off a 1 handicap.

He kills the ball. I played with Jay and sure, the distance was great, but the accuracy was fantastic. I would give my left anything to play like that! His 40 points were good for 3rd spot, and that was even with our rental clubs. Top striker Ben Denham was also in our group but couldn’t buy a putt out here today, and that’s just how the ball rolls sometimes in this silly game we love. Kenny Aihara was with us as well

The par-3 7th hole at Crystal Bay, a beautiful challenge and even with his solid play, he did not get a podium placing!

Freddy Graham had a fantastic round and you could not blame him for thinking it would be his day as 43 points on his card made for a great day of golf. Most days that would beat the field handsomely, but not today.

Sometimes you have a round where you can do no wrong. That happened to Corey Cusatis today who had the round of his life with 45 Stableford points circled at the top of the card.

Corey has been playing with us for over a month now and we have seen him play to his 23 handicap in the past, so full credit to him on today’s performance and personal best!

Silky Oaks - Stableford – White Tees 1st – Fred Birch (21) 40 points T-2nd – Alan Rothwell (7) 39 points T-2nd – Rick Grobel (16) 39 points 4th – Bob Mulholland (8) 37 points More last-minute calls to the course for another tee time or two sees one more extended sign-up sheet squeeze in a few more golfers for this event. This is getting to be one of our regular venues, as the popularity of this course continues to grow. You guys are killin’ me!

If more course managers followed this formula they would see the numbers increase just like Silky Oaks has done. We want to pay around 1,500 to 1,700 (or less) including buggy and then our customers will want to play there. Is that really so hard to figure out? This is evolving into a really, really good track and the elevation changes only add to the interest of this superb layout.

Scotsman Bob Mulholland just got on the totem pole and should not complain with a

37 on the card for fourth place. That’s a fine result Mr. M. A tie for second place saw Rick Grobel and Alan Rothwell find their own way to accumulate 39 points out there today. Today we must congratulate Fred Birch who ends up at the top of the heap and hits that magic 40 for the win. This is the second time we see “The Student” do a shot better than “The Teacher” as Mr. Rothwell must now be re-evaluating his decision to help Fred with his swing! Hey Alan, maybe a career as a teaching pro is on the cards!

Thanks to all who joined us this week at The Home of Golf in Pattaya, The Golf Club.

The Golf Club is “The Home of Golf in Pattaya” and located on Soi LK Metro. We broadcast all English Premier League, UFC, NFL, MLB and NHL games live. Our kitchen is open from 7 am to 10:30 pm with our famous Steak Nights on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Just call 085 434 3377 or see our website www.golfclubpattaya.com, and

The Four Musketeers! Bob, Rick, big winner Fred Birch and Alan back home for more information mail us at pattaya4golf@ gmail.com and see updates at www.facebook. com/golfclubpattaya. All handicaps welcome!

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Local Sports Paul Weatherley and Mashi Smooth at Silky Oak

by Derek Brook

The Tropical Golfers decided to treat themselves to a round at Silky Oak this Friday, and why not? We're worth it! A nice size group of 22 golfers decided to give this interesting course a try, and with hopes of no washout like the previous Tuesday, the cars were loaded and off we went.

Silky Oak is a course that doesn't play too hard, but makes up for it with intimidation. Several forced water carries off the tee mess with player's minds, and most cruelly the first hole is the worst of the bunch, some par 3 holes are blind shots, and the course is a bit hilly with some highly elevated greens. The course was in its usual good condition. It’s also a popular course and this day play was slower than preferred, but at least the weather cooperated.

Back at BJ's Lodge the scoring came in at close to handicap for the winners, with one player blasting through that!

A Flight (0-18): Mashi Kaneta (h'cap 16) is back from a recent medical leave and announced his return to the world by winning A flight with an excellent 36 points. Welcome back Mashi! Runner-up Brian Gabe (17) was close with 35 points, followed by visiting Paul Kirkland (5) with 34. Way to go!

B Flight (19+): Dominating Silky Oak and all the rest of the players, big Paul Weatherly (21) earned a jaw-dropping 40 points, besting the rest of his flight by five shots! Good playing Paul, and those lessons have already been paid for, it’s all profit now. The next two spots went to countback with Dick Warberg (19) over Dr. Tom McDowell (19) each with a fine

Winners Mashi Kaneta (L) and Paul Weatherly enjoy the moment!

35 points.

Near pins: Tom Herrington, Paul Weatherly (2), Landis Brooks Long putt: John Davis Former PSC Golf Chairman is now recuperating at home, and we wish him all the best for a speedy recovery. We're thinking of you Mark!

Toddy fends of Boris Cuypers to take it out at Rayong!

by James Olsen Twenty-nine golfers were on time and more than eager to descend upon, and out play Rayong CC. Many of us were playing at Rayong CC for only the second time in the last year and a half.

On entering the grounds it stands out that this course needs some work done. I think we all agree that the course is quite good with the layout being tough but good (probably too many bunkers for my liking). Facilities are not that flash, the clubhouse is so far out of date. This place really needs an injection of cash to keep up with the times. It is priced as to what it should be.

The golf gave some good results with three countbacks out of the two divisions. Martin Todd led the way beating Fred Cuypers by a solitary point, with Mike Gosden and Jim Groves coming in a further 2 points in the rear. Yet another countback.

Division 2 went to Kae Dayton beating Alain Taddeion a countback with Frank Waterhouse and John Anderson having to be separated with a countback to give us 3rd and 4th.

Results: Division 1 1st Martin Todd (10) 35 pts 2nd Fred Cuypers (17) 34 pts 3rd Mike Gosden (18) 32 pts 4th Jim Groves (11) 32 pts Division 2 1st Kae Dayton (21) 35 pts 2nd Alain Taddei (20) 35 pts 3rd Frank Waterhouse (19) 32 pts 4th John Anderson (30) 32 pts NTPs 5 – Graham Rice 7 – Peter Grey 11 – Martin Todd 16 – Bernie McCart Longest 1st Putt 9 – Mike Gosden 18 – Patrick Engles Presentation was held at the course as today is a Big Buddah Day and as we abide by the rules and laws of Thailand.

The Growling Swan is not open for beer sales.

After 18 holes of pain and suffering we welcomed back Bill Steinmann and farewelled Troy Pickford, Sam Crowley,

Fred Cuypers and Paul Jackson. We wish you all safe travel and hope that you are back soon.

Resident charity hound, D-For gratefully received donations from the players and they are thanked for their continued contributions. All ‘D-For’ for February and March are going to the families of the caddies from Pattaya CC Golf Course that were tragically killed leaving work at the golf course. Total as of press time is 16,840.00 baht.

For serious golfing with a dash of fun, The Growling Swan welcomes golfers of all persuasions. We generally play on Mondays and Thursdays at any one of the fine courses around Pattaya. Contact Peter Grey for bookings or any information on 086 1503 086.

Bowls The Growling Swan also caters to the bowls enthusiasts. Bus transport departs The GS on Sundays at 10 am to play at The Retreat. Contact Paul Rennison on 084 345 4005 if you wish to partake.

The cost including return bus transport, bowling fees and a hot lunch is less than 400 baht, so great value for a day out.

PSC Tropical Golf from BJ's by Derek Brook Bangpra (Stableford) A late start would mean a late finish, mind that would mean a bit of a lie in and that I can do with. So the group met a bit later and left for a 12 o'clock tee off. At that time of the day the roads were quite good, so we were still at the course a bit early. One good point is that the book in at this time is quick and easy and so all the players were on the first tee in good time, and that was fine as we were able to get away a bit early.

The course is a bit dry at this time of the year, and the ponds a bit short of water, however hit the ball down the middle and you could find grass, but a bit off line and the ground was dry. The greens also were a little hard and we

all know what dry greens at Bangpra means, really fast greens and as such proved a bit tricky.

However the sun shone and the wind blew the worries away, and lo and behold we played well into the second nine before the monkeys showed themselves. In fact there was only a couple of holes to go and they did not cause too much trouble although one did get into my cart for a few seconds.

Biggest problem we had was that three groups were slipped in in front of us at the half way, so whilst it was always going to be late when we finished, it became much later, still a shower and a quick bite to eat and it was back to Pattaya in the dark. At least

it was not raining this week.

We were quickly into the results. In the A Flight, 0 to 18, the winner was Bob Watson with 37 points ahead of Ted Morris on second with 35 points. We then had a countback on 32 points that saw Landis Brooks in third, John Davis in fourth and Mashi just missing out.

In the B Flight the winner was Paul Weatherly with 41 points, a fine round and one that has been coming for some time. We then had a countback on 37 points that saw Dick Warberg in second and Barry Oats in third. In fourth was Tom McDowell with 35 points.

Flight winners

Then with the time being late most of the golfers went home, hopefully to sleep.

TTFN. Near pin: Tommy Marshall, Bob Watson, Keitchi Kasami, Jim Ferris Long put: John Hackett, Derek Brook, Don Carmody

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You & Your Pets

Not Just Cats and Dogs This is the “You & Your Pets” page, but other than the occasional reference to parrots, hamsters and snakes, it has been primarily focused on cats and dogs. The column by Paul and Sandra, “Cats for You in Pattaya,” for example, features photos of adorable cats and kittens available for adoption. Then there’s the long-running “Cat Corner Tip,” which reflects its label, serving up tips for feline fans. And of course “Going to the Dogs” goes entirely to dogs. Virtually all else on this page is related to feeding and caring for cats and dogs.

But readers in Pattaya share their lives with a realm of other animals ranging from birds and fish to monkeys and horses and even pigs (not to mention assorted asses). One of the most popular “other” pets is the guinea pig—a cute, small, sociable and chatty rodent.

Owning and caring for a guinea pig can be rewarding, but it is also a big responsibility and a long-term (six to nine years) commitment. Their needs are simple and few: a large cage, unlimited Timothy Hay (not alfalfa), trimmed nails, and a variety of fresh veggies and fruit. It’s important that they get adequate fiber and large amounts of vitamin C. Also, you might entertain the idea of getting two or three of these sociable rascals. They are

Cats for You in Pattaya Cats for You is a great and much needed service in our area, but Paul and Sandra point out that adopting a cat or kitten is a longterm commitment with costs such as feeding and veterinary fees.

Many adopters find it’s a good idea to adopt two animals so that they can enjoy each others’ company as well as yours. Contact Paul and Sandra on 0852875004 or look at their useful website http://cats4youinpattaya.webs.com/

Dum & Dummer

These two tiny tots were found in a bin bag dumped at the side of the road. Luckily, although traumatised and very hungry, they are making a good recovery and should be ready to go to a new home by the time you read this article.

herd animals and normally do much better and are healthier in pairs or trios. They will still bond with you, yet have a happier life when you are not around. The cost and care of two is not much more than one.

As to No-Nos, do NOT provide your guinea pig with one of those huge exercise balls; they can cause spinal, foot and ankle injuries leading to difficult, lifethreatening problems. Another No-No relates to food: do not feed the animal any bread, cookies, crackers, rolled oats, breakfast cereals, beans or potatoes of any kind. The little guy (or gal) can suffer digestive upset from all of those foods.

Instead, the bulk of your guinea pig's diet should consist of high-quality, nutritionallycomplete commercial guinea pig

food, available at pet shops and major food markets. Healthy adult guinea pigs can typically be fed one tablespoon of pellets in the morning and one tablespoon in the evening, but no more than that. Overfeeding your pet with pellets can lead to obesity.

On the other hand, do provide a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables in moderation.

These include grapes, cucumbers, carrots, pears, oranges, strawberries, kale, and dandelion and turnip greens; remember to discard all such leftovers before they spoil.

Vitamin C supplements also are crucial. Because they lack the enzyme needed to synthesize vitamin C, it is advisable to provide supplements daily. And don’t forget the grass hay and plenty of fresh, clean water.

You’re probably aware of family health measures, but do you know what issues are important to provide for your pet’s well-being?

This Pattaya Today feature may help answer some common questions.

Felix

This handsome fellow is living in a cage at our local vets.

Sadly he has tested positive for the Felv which means that he must be an indoor cat so that he cannot transfer his disease to any other feline.

However he is not sick and is expected to live a long and normal life.

Jamie & Pan

This lovely brother and sister combination would love to go to a home together if at all possible. They are both very loving and playful and although can be a little shy with strangers at first, once they get to know you they are fine.

Bella

This lovely girl has been with us for quite a few years now.

She is very friendly and just loves to be made a fuss of. She generally keeps herself out of the way of the other cats here and enjoys lazing about the place as if she was the Queen of Sheba.

Cat Corner Tip

Nip Nip

As all residents and visitors to Pattaya can attest, thousands upon thousands of dogs and cats wander our streets and live in squalor. Many end up euthanized because of unwanted litters, and many others die from diseases or in traffic accidents or fights with other animals.

Nevertheless, many pet owners are reluctant to spay or neuter their dogs or cats. The fact is, sterilization is a healthy choice for your pet.

It reduces the risk of breast cancer in females; it minimizes the chance that male animals will suffer testicular cancer. Furthermore, neutered males are less likely to run away from home, mark their territory, or exhibit aggressive behaviors.

The Cat’s Meow

Going to the Dogs...

If you get to thinking you're a person of some influence, try ordering somebody else's dog around. ~Will Rogers

Adult cats don’t meow at each other. Meowing is mostly for people.

Cats meow to greet you; it’s their way of saying “hello.” Mostly they meow to ask for food or to get your attention.

BUT… Don’t reward your cat’s meowing lest it becomes constant and habitual.

If she meows for food, don’t feed her until she is quiet. If she meows to be noticed, wait until she stops meowing before paying attention to her.

On the other hand, if your

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1-15 March 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

Games

CROSSWORD Across

Down

1. 100% 4. “___ Rider” 8. Appetizer cheese 9. Female opera stars 11. ___ mater 12. Weightlifters’ noises 14. Scribbles idly 16. Korean auto company 17. Bro’s sib 18. Dreidel stakes 19. Electrical measures 22. Touches 23. Eight, to Eduardo 24. Couple 25. Hockey great Bobby 26. Jollier 30. Remove frost 32. Gust of wind 33. Streamlined 34. Affixes one’s signature 35. Allows 36. Pack animal

1. Singer Guthrie 2. Exec’s vehicle 3. Results in (2 words) 4. Sidles 5. Freshens 6. “Law & Order: ___” 7. New York baseballer 8. “Too ___!”

10. Up to this time 13. College placement exams (abbr.)

15. Fleur-de-___ 18. The Peach State 19. Lumber 20. Land measures 21. Excitement 22. Cat’s coat 24. Office pieces 26. Join 27. Fleming and Hunter 28. Lodge brothers 29. Dweller (abbr.)

31. Fair grade

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Solution Issue 11

This week’s subject is Hobbies and Leisure 1. What is the junior version of Lego called?

2. Which Norfolk seaside resort has a famous pleasure beach?

3. In which decade of the 19th century was Blackpool Tower opened to the public?

4. How many cards do you deal to each player in rummy?

5. In bridge which the minor suit other than diamonds?

Answers: 1. Duplo; 2. Great Yarmouth; 3. 1890s; 4. Seven; 5. Clubs.

Hidden Words Puzzle Source: www.puzzles-world.com

SUDOKU 1

2

6 7 3 1 3 1 5 7

Can you find the 6 hidden words in the above picture?

6 2 4 9

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Solution on Page 31

9 7 5 4

9 6 8 1 2 5 8 1

Answers: 1. Book; 2. Story; 3. Pages; 4. Read; 5. Novel; 6. Words.

2016 HORSESHOE POINT EQUESTRIAN EVENTS Dressage and Show Jumping 18-20 March 20-22 May 01-03 July 26-28 August

FEI World Jumping Challenge Event #1 FEI World Jumping Challenge Event #2 FEI World Jumping Challenge Event #3 Horseshoe Point Open

International Riding School, Horseshoe Point, Pattaya, Thailand 100 Moo 9, Tambon Pong, Amphur Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel: +66 38 051 676 Mobile: +66 83 988 7860

www.ridingschoolasia.com www.horseshoepoint.com

Pattaya Today is published & edited by Chanpen Prasinchai for Siamese Vision Media Co., Ltd. ISSN: 2351-0471 Publication License Number 5/04/2557 Office: 263/119 Moo 12, Soi Chaiyapruek 2, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel: 038 076 062 Fax: 038 076 063 E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net Printed at Print 87 Co., Ltd. Naklua, Pattaya City 20150