REm thailand • pattaya edition
Bravo Thai conquered ‘jungle’ and have never looked back
Great year for the multi-award winning The Vineyard projects Issue 164 | January 2015 | www.remthai.com
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who is who • commentary
Managing Director Dave Buckley Tel: 087 988 0799 dave@remthai.com Publisher/Editor Mesiya Watson may@realestatemagazinethailand.com Sales and Marketing Pure Phanthong Tel: 087 618 6486 pure@remthai.com or purephanthong@gmail.com Wongduan Roberts Tel: 087 535 8096 duan@remthai.com or realestatemag@hotmail.com Office/Accounts Tel: 038 406519 or 08 6335 2474 dear@remthai.com Web address www.remthai.com
Our team
Since 2001 – Thailand’s first English language property magazine
Know when to fold ’em There’s an old song by Kenny Rogers called The Gambler and in it there’s the line “you got to know when to hold ’em; know when to fold ’em” referring to the game of poker. Well early in December one of this city’s most prominent developers – maybe the longest established given their 20 years here – decided that they knew when to fold ’em and
Dave Buckley comments on a tough call made by one of the city’s leading developers
stop one of their projects. There was no slinking away, or fudging, no attempt at cover-up or glossing over. Nova Group CEO Rony Fineman decided to tell it like it is and announce on Facebook that due to the rapid decline of the Russian currency he felt it best for all concerned that his company halted the Ocean Pacific project before it broke ground (see story Page 6). It was a brave – and some might consider, expensive – call. But he felt it right to take that decision and offer to give buyers their money back rather than risk losing even larger sums further down the line. The news set real estate brokers talking and speculating
but for me, having spoken to Rony Fineman as some length, I believe this is
Publisher Pattaya Property Consultants Co Ltd 21/27 M5 Soi Nern Plub Waan Nongprue • Banglamung Chonburi 20150 Tel: 038 406519 or 08 6335 2474 Publication Licence Number: 2/2549 Disclaimer: All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the editor. The publishers are not responsible for any error contained within the magazine. The publishers also accept no liability for the accuracy of statements made by the advertisers or writers. The views of correspondents are not necessarily those of the magazine. Articles are produced containing up-to-date information to the best of our knowledge. However, we accept no liability for information contained within any article. Copyright © Real Estate MAGAZINE Thailand 2015
a simple case of bad timing and bad luck in relation to the currency that few could have accurately predicted. Only one Nova project is seriously affected. For the rest it is (profitable) business as usual. Ocean Pacific attracted Russian buyers – some 90 per cent of all sales – and recently that country’s currency has dipped dramatically. This has meant that Russian buyers who did their calculations and worked out that they could afford to buy in Ocean Pacific now find their money is only reaching halfway. It’s not a case of anyone wishing to renege on the deals. I’m no economist and I don’t feel it is helpful to try to delve too deeply into the reasons behind the currency slump of the rouble. But slump there has been. I know that Rony Fineman wishes the buyers in Ocean Pacific had been more evenly spread around the world. That said, I feel he should be applauded for his honesty and the decision to refund all money must be welcomed. I wouldn’t expect anything less from Nova Group. The Russian influence has been big in the property market in recent years and may be dipping just at the moment but I believe these things are cyclical and, although they made be overshadowed in the short term by perhaps the Chinese, the Indians or the Japanese, they will be back. This would be good for Pattaya’s economy, whatever your nationality. A Russian olive branch regarding neighbouring countries and a resurgence in the price of oil would be steps in the right direction. There, I’ve sorted the problem with a wave of my magic wand! Happy and prosperous New Year everyone.
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Artwork, Design & Layout Tel: 086 833 2543 (Khun Third)
contents • leisure
cover story
leisure
They started out in the ‘jungle’
Firth, the suave spy
30•firth comes forth: Actor Colin Firth had to get into shape to be convincing as Harry Hart in the light-hearted spy film, Kingsman: The Secret Service.
12
Bravo Thai have come a long way in the past seven years. In
42•we have
2014 they won the title Best Villa Development on the Eastern
contact: Dr
Seaboard in the Thailand Property Awards.
Iain
Corness
puts the focus on
contact
lenses
and
says
why
w e a r e r s should
take
extra care.
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38 34
Global Top use all the experience gained to launch Olympus project.
52
Paradise Residences on Koh Samet – just a walk from the ferry.
Best of the West at
64•born 100 years ago: This month’s quiz asks
newest launch from
how much do you know about leading celebrities who
Heights Holdings.
were born in 1915?
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advertisers • page numbers
AAAA Real Estate 29 Acorn Distribution 70,77 Akvavit Grill & Bar 86 Amaya Hill 20 Arcadia Beach Continental (HH) 53 Arcadia Beach Imperial (HH) 55 Arcadia Beach Resort (HH) 57 Arise Asia 21 BBX Barter Company 67 Beach Properties 78-79 Bravo Thai (Vineyard and Amaya Hill) Cover Canard Bizar Fine Food and Wine Store 49 Centara Grand Residence (Tulip) 10-11 City Center Residence (Matrix) Inside front cover Coastal Real Estate 83 Colliers International 22-23 Colossus Group 61 Defence International Security Services 86 Euro Design 73 FARANG Services 4-5 Foodland 72 Friendship Supermarket 68 Gecko Properties 33 German-Thai Group 65 Green Cascade 19 Global Property 20 Global Solidor 65 Golden Tulip Hotel & Residence (Tulip) 36-37 Grand Blue Condominium 18 Green Field Villas 5 58-60 homesdirect.asia 44 Jomtien Sauna 75 Movers & Shakers 80 New Nordic 16-17, Supplement North Beach (Nova) 7 OIA (Office for Interior & Architecture) 25 Orient, The (Matrix and Nova) Inside back cover Pacific Bay (Nova) 3 Pattaya Digital Signage 84 Pattaya Realty 14 Pattaya Realty Commercial 15 Real Estate Broker Association 92-93, Supplement Rightmove Pattaya Supplement Riviera, The – Jomtien Back cover Royal Tulip Suites 62-63 Sands Condominium 71 Sensation VIP Group 40-41 Shenanigan’s 69, 88 Southpoint (Kingdom Property) 43 Sunny Online Travel 81 Thai Business Help 44 Town & Country Property 8-9 Waterfront, The (Tulip Group) 26-27
news • property
Nova cancel Ocean Pacific Problems with devalued rouble at heart of the decision Leading Pattaya property developers, Nova Group, have decided not to proceed with one of their numerous projects citing the greatly devalued rouble as being at the core of the decision. Soon after the announcement by Nova chief executive Rony Fineman on his Facebook page I spoke with him about what must have been a difficult decision, writes Dave Buckley. “Of course it was not an easy call,” Rony said. “But it was a business decision, pure and simple. People should not try to read too much into it. We have many other projects close to completion and sales in all other developments are going well.” He explained: “The problem with Ocean Pacific was that 90 per cent of the buyers in the project were Russians and, given the dramatic recent fall in the value of the rouble, we were certain that if we went ahead and built it then buyers would not be in a financial position to transfer and probably stop payments.”
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FACEBOok announcement in full Yesterday (December 8) I made a painful business decision which better to tell on Facebook now so people will not start false rumours regarding one of my projects, Ocean Pacific. We sold well this project but 90% of the buyers are Russian and, as you know, the Russian rouble is down almost 100% meaning the cost to send money out is double than when they bought the project and we already see many buyers stop paying their monthly payment plan so I have decided to scrap the project and return all money to buyers. As you know, we paid a lot in commissions and advertising but it does not make sense to take such a big gamble and would rather loose a couple of million dollars between partners than take a big gamble in the future on a market where no one knows what will happen. Nova Group will complete next year The Palm, Amari Residence, Serenity, Nam Talay, Nova Express hotel and new extension for Amari Nova Suites. I hope every one understands my position and hope this will clear all rumours.
Commissions So Nova Group have, essentially stopped throwing good money after bad. Their losses on marketing Ocean Pacific and paying agents’ commissions amount to around Bt60m but, had they gone ahead, that loss could have amounted to many times that. “We were prepared to make the call. We have been in business here for 20 years and this the first time we have made such a call,” said Rony. “Had we gone ahead we might have encountered two problems. One, we would have had to pay back a bank loan with interest perhaps without enough coming in from the buyers. Two, we would have had to pay to maintain the building and many other expenses. “For us it was just a very sensible decision. You win some; you lose some. In this case we lost a little. We are a long way down the line to obtaining EIA (Environmental Impact
Assessment) for the project so we will probably continue to get that then we can sell the land with EIA in position.” Buyers in Ocean Pacific are being offered the choice of either switching their interest to another of Nova’s many projects or having their money returned. Quite a few are choosing to switch. Big choice And there are numerous projects to chose from. The Palm will complete this year and only one unit remains unsold. Also due to complete in 2015 are the Amari Residences (91 per cent sold), Serenity in Wongamat (92 per cent sold), and Nam Talay (83 per cent sold). “North Beach with sales of 50 per cent will also start construction in 2015 as soon as we have the EIA. The same applies to The Orient where we are in partnership with Matrix,” said Rony. “So, as you can see the picture overall is very healthy. It was just this one specific project that troubled us. We weren’t prepared to let one project drag down the others. Brokers I have spoken to appreciate our honesty and respect the decision.” Just before this publication went to press Nova were due to open the showroom for their latest project, Pacific Bay (pictured). “Sales there are already going well but it is early days yet,” said Rony. “I’m confident it will be a big success.” Seven hotels Nova Group currently have seven hotels in operation which are mostly debt free. In addition a Nova Express Hotel should complete soon behind Nova Park as will an extension to Amari Nova Suites. “Also we are planning two Holiday Inn Express hotels, one in Walking Street, the other in Soi Buakhow,” said Rony adding, “we are sound financially and by taking tough decisions such as the one regarding Ocean Pacific we aim to stay that way. It’s business as usual at Nova Group.”
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cover story • dave buckley
Bravo Thai conquered the ‘jungle’ and went on to win major awards
W
hen the developers Bravo Thai started their first project in Pattaya a prominent real estate broker went on record to question the wisdom of building a village “in the jungle”. A magnificent seven years on ... the company have proved their doubters wrong and are one of the most successful villa developers on the Eastern Seaboard. “I was always confident our first development – The Vineyard – would work out well,” said Bravo managing director Terrence (Terry) Collins with
a look on his face that suggested well maybe he did have some doubts! One thing Terry and his partners were clear about ... their villas had to be top quality; the kind of properties they would be happy to live in themselves. The ‘jungle’ they started in was in a side road off the main road which links Lake Mabprachan to Route 36. Congratulations “A while further down the line the broker who made the ‘jungle’ remark said that he was happy to retract his statement and congratulated us on
l If you wish to know more about Bravo Thai developments you can contact Terry on 089 867 7969; email terry@ siamdevelopments. com; or visit the websites www.bravothai developments.com or www.thevineyard villasthailand.com or www.amayahill. com
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AWARDS WON Thailand Property Awards 2011 Highly commended: Best Villa Development (Eastern Seaboard) 2012 Highly commended: Best Villa Development (Eastern Seaboard) 2013 Highly commended: Best Villa Development (Eastern Seaboard) 2014 Winner: Best Villa Development (Eastern Seaboard) Asia Pacific Property Awards 2012-3 Highly commended: Property Single Unit Thailand to The Vineyard
2014-5 Highly commended: Property Single Unit Thailand to The Vineyard Phase III, La Résidence South East Asia Property Awards 2014 Nominated for Best Residential Architectural Design (first time nominated in this competition) 2014 Highly commended for Best Villa Development Thailand OPP (Overseas Property Professionals) 2014 nominated for Best Luxury Developer (Asia)
our success which was nice of him,” said Terry. And what a success story it has been. Today Bravo Thai have just a few villas left to sell in their The Vineyards III development – La Résidence and have moved onto the second phase of their fourth project – Amaya Hill. To date, all of their projects have been close to their first location near the reservoir but I understand that a fifth one will take them a little further down the coast and into a totally different ballpark in terms of scale. “I can’t say too much about it
High-end buyers All have attracted high-end buyers and the quality of the developments has brought numerous awards to the company (see separate panel). Indeed in terms of awards last year was especially significant as, following three successive years of being highly commended, the top award in the class Best Villa development on the Eastern
Seaboard came their way. Well deserved, seemed to be the common consensus. Amaya Hill was also highly commended. Bravo Thai’s next project may be taking them away from Mabprachan but Terry is a firm believer in the area where his company got started. “I really love it here,” he said. “Pattaya is only 15 minutes away, but it’s another world out here.” Recent progress in the area has been marked and there’s more to come. “I’m told that a few years down the line they will build a Robinson’s department store and several condo blocks on that big cleared plot where the road starts to bend around the lake,” said Terry. “And there’s a new by-pass planned for close to here.” Compared to when you started? “Well, there’s no comparison,” said Terry. “New roads, a possible highspeed rail link to Bangkok, a brandleader department store and that’s on top of proximity to a leading international school, many top golf courses and industrial estates which create leasing opportunities for our villa owners.” Not bad for an area once described as ‘the jungle’. |
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until we are completely ready,” said Terry. “But it will be a major project involving hundreds of houses that is likely to involve us for anything between 8-10 years.” Before coming to Thailand Terry was a builder in the UK. “I enjoy all aspects of a building project,” he said. “Of course the sales are nice (grins) but I get a lot of satisfaction out of coming up with the concepts and pulling it all together.” Although the first three phases of the Vineyards had a common theme Terry and his partners have always been seeking ways to adapt and improve. Vineyards I was just 11 villas, phase II a little way down the road was nine and the third and final phase is 21.
Contact:
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GPS:Location 12.928045,100.883015 Our of�ice address 420/185 Moo.9 Pattaya 2nd Road 15, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel: 038 412301/038 412302 Email: info@pattayarealty.com
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Contact
Tel: 038 251245 Eng: 085 431 6960
www.pattayarealtycommercial.com
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Green Cascade features a variety of residential villas, houses and condominium apartments in sizes to suit your needs. Amazing resort-style facilities include seven swimming pools, children’s pools, children’s playground, club house, lake and bicycle lanes. We invite you to be our partner in the amazing Green Cascade. Illustrations are architects renderings and may be subject to change. They show Pool Villas (top) and Lake Villas.
Master plan idea & concept by OIA (OFFICE FOR INTERIOR & ARCHITECTURE CO.,LTD.) www.o-i-a.com
22 REM 01/2015
green issues • office for interior & architecture (OIA)
This is the second of a series of articles in which REm owner Dave Buckley talks to Elmar Kleiner (right), the head of the Office for Interior & Architecture company, about how green issues can, or should, influence modern architecture and how we live. This month we have an overview of why it pays to go green!
Taking in the whole green picture
T
he word “holistic” crops up frequently when talking to Elmar Kleiner about environmental matters. He is a great believer in looking at the whole picture, not just elements of it. As he puts it: “There’s no point specifying a top quality, energy saving inverter air conditioning unit if your client lives in a bamboo hut.” Which is his way of saying he does not believe in specifying green measures just for the sake of it; they have to be fit for purpose and appropriate for the project his company has been asked to provide consultation on. He looks as the whole picture and does not specify, say, solar panels just because they might be the green flavour of the month.
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Green evangelist Elmar is something of a green evangelist but he is realistic enough to know many people are still of the opinion that green equals expensive. His answer is that it doesn’t have to be that way. Example? The orientation of a building can play a key part in how enviro-friendly it is. “If the long side of a building faces east or west, the low morning sun or even more so the
intense afternoon sun will result in high solar heat gains and require a lot more energy to keep the rooms cool,” said Elmar. “If the land size permits and the short side of the building can face east to west the sun heat problem is considerably reduced and it is easier to create areas of shade along its length, further reducing the need to spend big sums on air-conditioning.” One way to cut energy without spending an extra sedang! But, of course, many green measures do attract a higher price tag initially though over time they usually pay for themselves and then some. Take a look at the lifecycle figures alongside which show how high a percentage of any project is spent during the operation phase. This seems to suggest that by spending a little more in the construction period there is big scope to recoup that money later. So why should developers go green and invest in a sustainable building? Elmar contends that green measures will: l Lead to improvements in the physical quality of buildings; l Buildings will last longer; l They will be more energy efficient; l Cost savings can be achieved after a relatively short period;
Lifecycle costs = Operation 40-80% = Construction 10-40% = Financing 5-15% = Alterations 5-25%
l Buildings will require less maintenance which means fewer headaches for those responsible for the upkeep; l Higher user comfort – residents or workers in a building will find them more pleasant places to be; l The previous point can result in increased productivity in the workplace; l More happiness for the individual (as above); l Reduced carbon footprint. Greater ROI In addition going green can be a sustainable investment through lower lifecycle costs. It can give greater return on investment thanks to lower running costs. The trick is that the people erecting the building need to be involved longterm so they reap the benefits. This is an area where OIA’s client Green Cascade in Bang Saray looks likely to prosper. Because the developers plan to be involved long after the project is fully built it is in their interest to consider long-term as opposed to short-term gains. “Developers need to look at the lifecycle cost of a building,” said Elmar. “Some last 20 years; some last hundreds of years. “When you look at the lifecycle cost it is easy to calculate that it might be much better to spend a little more up front to benefit later.” Elmar concedes that much depends on the nature of the project and the goal of the investor(s). “Many developers with shortterm goals are not interested in our sustainable design services.” Elmar says a programme of education is required to change people’s perceptions. “In Europe there is heightened awareness of green issues. It will happen here, too, but it’s going to take time and effort.” |
wining • dining
the chow hound ... Back Fabrik German Bakery
Checking out new food factory
A
30 REM 01/2015
nyone who has read the Chow Hound food columns before knows he is an early riser and a breakfast fanatic. This month our carnivorous canine sniffed out a new eatery on Jomtien Second Road near the Soi Watboon intersection that opens at 6am and puts on a breakfast spread tailor-made for a hungry hound. Even though The Hound isn’t German, he couldn’t help noticing that the ever-increasing collection of diners he saw inside and outside Back Fabrik German Bakery had one thing in common … they looked alarmingly similar in size and stature to The Chow Hound himself. Intrigued by the name and the crowd, the Hound stumbled in and was amazed by what he found. First off, Back Fabrik is a whole lot bigger than it appears. With ample seating inside and out, this fully functioning German Bakery can get really busy. Extremely versatile The breakfast portion of the menu is extremely versatile, offering everything from a diminutive French croissant to a full-on mega-meal known as The Gourmet Breakfast that includes eggs, sausage, bacon, Australian beef, Norwegian salmon, cheese, juice, coffee and a basket of assorted fresh German bread. On his first visit, the Chow Hound chose The Farmer’s Breakfast with two eggs, smoked ham, cooked ham, a pile of fried potatoes spiced up with bell peppers and chunks of fried ham and the ubiquitous basket of German breads with jam and honey. The Hound didn’t eat the rest of the day! The next day, The Hound woke up, realised he had no coffee in the cupboard and cruised down to Back Fabrik at 6:30am and guess what … they were open! Elated that someone
else gets up at this un-dogly hour … the Hound ordered the Egg Pancake which turned out to be a beautiful combination of both egg and pancake with crispy and delicious bacon on top. Tail-wagging good! The Hound warns that we shouldn’t think of Back Fabrik as just a brekkie place. They have an extensive menu of very tasty looking baguette sandwiches including black forest ham, salami, chicken breast, Norwegian salmon, roasted striploin pork, Australian beef, a variety of cheeses and even a schnitzel baguette! Coffee, tea, smoothies and old fashioned frappes can also be had. And, this is a fully functioning deli/bakery with fresh bread, pastries and desserts made daily. You can even pop in to buy items liked smoked herring, smoked salmon and all manner of handmade German sausages. As the Chow Hound plowed through his pile of breakfast, he noticed a steady stream of individuals and business owners arriving and leaving with fresh baked goodies for themselves and customers. Only when he realised what the name Back Fabrik means in English did he truly understood … “Bake Factory”. For sure this “fabric” was built to produce mass quantities of great food.
star interview by fred allen / The Interview People
Firth muscles in on the espionage game
32 REM 01/2015
T
hough Colin Firth might have made a great James Bond, he’s now getting the chance to play a spy in Kingsman: The Secret Service, a spirited adventure film with plenty of humour overlapping the action which is released next month. Firth plays Harry Hart, a suave secret agent employed by The Kingsmen, an elite group of covert operatives who work independently to fight the forces of evil around the world. Not known for physically taxing roles beyond his inept wrestling match with Hugh Grant in Bridget Jones’ Diary, Kingsman director Matthew Vaughn (X-Men: First Class) insisted that Firth undergo a strict training regimen to look credible in the film’s fight sequences. “Matthew wanted to turn me into a killing machine,” Firth recalls. “He spoke to me a year before we started shooting to make sure I was up for the challenge because he told me, ‘You’re the last person anyone would expect to see in that kind of action film beating up the villains’. So the next thing I know the Jackie Chan training team shows up my house and we start the process of getting me into shape. I actually surprised myself and start wondering why I hadn’t tried to do these kinds of films earlier in my career!”
Shot primarily in London and at Leavesdon Studios, Kingsman co-stars Michael Caine, Samuel L Jackson, and rising star Taron Egerton as a new operative Hart is grooming to join The Kingsmen. Adapted from the hugely popular comic book series by Matthew Millar, the movie is an attempt by Vaughn to reinvent the spy genre with a mix of mirth and mayhem that also features the kind of high-tech gadgetry (poison gas pens, rifle umbrellas, grenades disguised as cigarette lighters) that would rival anything in Q’s or James Bond’s imagination. Adventurous family The 54-year-old Colin Firth may not have any spies in his family background, but his ancestry is fairly adventurous. Two of his grandparents were missionaries and both his mother and father, British academics, grew up in India. Colin spent this infancy growing up in Nigeria where his parents were working together with his sister. At the age of four, Firth and his family moved to Winchester in England, although he also lived briefly in St Louis, Missouri from 1972 - 73. Travel also figured into his personal life. He is married to the beautiful Italian documentary
“My wife is firmly in charge. She is always one step ahead of me, ruthlessly efficient, energetic, and tireless.”
filmmaker/producer Livia Giuggioli, now 44, whom he met on a film set in Columbia while shooting the drama Nostromo in 1995. They divide their time between homes in London and Umbria, Italy (where they lived for three years before they decided to have their children schooled in London) together with their two boys, Luca, 12, and Matteo, 10. Firth also has a 23-year-old son, Will, from a previous relationship with American actress Meg Tilly. This past year Firth has appeared in a series of films including The Railway Man, The Devil’s Know, Woody Allen’s Magic in the Moonlight, and Before I Go to Sleep, in which he costarred opposite Nicole Kidman (who also appeared in The Railway Man). The Interview People: Colin, did you ever imagine yourself playing this kind of an action hero? Colin Firth: No. I’ve never seen myself as that kind of an actor and at this point in my career it was probably the furthest thing away from my thinking. But Matthew (Vaughn) enjoys subverting people’s expectations in the same way as he’s trying to subvert the spy genre here. Kingsman is what you get when James Bond meets Eliza Doolittle and it’s all about drawing
a sense of personal satisfaction from getting rid of your belly fat. It’s a matter of discipline and it would be wonderful to have the Jackie Chan team at my disposal several days a week! TIP: Would you consider doing another action genre film? CF: I’ve definitely caught the action bug. I don’t know whether any offers will come my way, but I’d be open to it. TIP: What has been the most defining role of your career thus far? CF: The role that probably did the most to change the perception of me was that of George Falconer in A Single Man. Added some wrinkles That was a role that had me playing an older, sadder kind of figure and suddenly you’re seen in a different way. You’ve added some wrinkles and people see you in a whole new light. You have to make the best of the attention you attract and keep looking for interesting films. I think I’ve been lucky in that as I’ve gotten older I’ve been able to the best work of my career. It was also a role that was tremendously affecting and you were drawn to his grief and sensitivity to so many things in his life. There are very few stories like that which are going to come your way. TIP: Any other films you’d single out?
Facing page: Colin Firth poses outside the Kingsman tailor’s which acts as a front for the spy organisation. Above: Taron Egerton, who plays Gary ‘Eggsy’ Unwin, Firth’s protege in the film meets Valentine (Samuel L Jackson).
CF: There are a few, but on a purely personal level I’m very proud of having worked on A Summer in Genoa (2008), which Michael Winterbottom directed. Very few people had a chance to see it, unfortunately. But I often think of that story like a recurring dream set against the Mediterranean. TIP: Women have been fawning over you for decades. Do you enjoy watching yourself on screen? CF: No, I try to avoid it. When you look at me you see a very different person from how I imagine myself. It’s terrifying for me to watch myself in my films now because that image doesn’t correspond to the one I have in my head about myself. In my mind, I still feel like I’m in my mid-30s, but when I look at myself in the mirror or see myself in my movies it vaguely reminds me of my grandmother. It’s very depressing! TIP: Do you have a particular plan when it comes to choosing movies or do you like to look at projects as they come your way? CF: I don’t have any strategy. I often choose my films on the basis of how I’m feeling and what my mood is at the time. You have to leave yourself open to the opportunities that arise and all the unexpected projects, like Kingsman, that come out of nowhere.
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people into this interesting fantasy world of spies and bad guys. TIP: Did you worry about being able to get into the kind of shape and being able to do the fight sequence choreography needed for this kind of a film? CF: It was daunting in many respects but also an interesting challenge. I saw it as an opportunity to stave off the ravages of middle age as well as being believable in the role...the thing that appealed to Matthew was casting somebody no one would imagine as a cold-steel killer. That said, it’s less of a gag to say, “Oh, you’d never expect Colin Firth to do this action stuff,” then cut to a stuntman doing it. So I had to get into shape. TIP: What was your training regimen like? CF: It was very hard work, three hours a day for six months, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I was training with various martial arts experts who were each masters in a particular form – kung fu, Thai boxing – as well as a top stunt man and an Olympic gold medal gymnast. It was fascinating to be able to train intensively and find myself becoming more physically fit and capable than I ever dreamed of. I would still love to keep working out on some level because you do feel
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star interview by fred allen / The Interview People
Many times I’ve taken roles because I wanted to work with a particular director, like Woody Allen, or because I wanted to help a film get made because the story needed or deserved to be told even if I didn’t feel that the role was ideal for me. The criteria keep changing. TIP: With respect to your film, Magic in the Moonlight, with Woody Allen, were you anxious to do a light comedy after shooting a very arduous film like The Railway Man? CF: The prospect of shooting in the most beautiful setting imaginable in the south of France was certainly appealing. Making a film like that is a bit of a romp. You get to work in the most beautiful setting imaginable, you work relatively short hours with Woody Allen who likes to finish work before dinner, and you almost feel like you’re on a paid vacation. Although I take the work seriously, I try to approach the profession in a lighthearted way. As actors we get to put on costumes, pretend to be different people, and exercise our imaginations. I’ve always tried to enjoy my work without letting it invade my life. Although in this case there was very little strain at all in terms of the work itself which was not the case
when I did Railway Man which leaves its mark on you. TIP: How do you and your wife balance the duties when it comes to looking after practical matters at home? CF: My wife is firmly in charge. She is always one step ahead of me, ruthlessly efficient, energetic, and tireless. She knows my weaknesses and my tendency to be rather too lackadaisical at times. That’s another reason I love her so much. Has Italy changed you? TIP: Do you think that having spent a lot of time living in Italy over the past decade has changed you in any way? CF: It’s more that I met my wife Livia that has really made me a much happier man. I can’t imagine what my life would have been like without her. We’ve been able to enjoy a wonderful life together with our children and spending time in Italy has been incredibly stimulating and fascinating for me. Italy is a country and culture that you embrace immediately. There’s a warmth and charm that overwhelms you and takes me out of my more subdued English personality. Italians love their food, their wine, their way of looking at the world and it’s very infectious. Even the language, which I still have yet
Cheers – Taron Egerton with Michael Caine who plays Arthur, a character akin to M in the Bond films.
to master, makes you feel more exuberant. TIP: What is it like for you to spend time in Italy? CF: It’s beautiful and immensely seductive. We go there as often as we can and we’re very attached to our life there. Still, Italy confuses me more and more all the time. (Laughs) I’m sure every country, once you get acquainted with it, you will see nothing but paradox – it’s certainly true of Italy, and it’s true of England too. It’s a fascinating series of conflicts. I fell in love with Italy very quickly – it’s very easy to fall in love with Italy – that’s its problem! It’s much easier to arrive into a culture that doesn’t have any immediate charm, so you can slowly learn to love it – like an arranged marriage. But Italy, unfortunately, bombards you with the charm, and then it’s got you. So by the time you’re dealing with all its problems, it’s like a lover you can’t refuse… TIP: Have you ever gotten into an argument in Italian? CF: No, but I can swear quite effectively in Italian. It’s a very colourful language in that respect. Lots of hand gestures for added emphasis although I’m not sure an Italian would find me very menacing. |
special report • dave buckley
Olympus has risen!
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G
lobal Top Group (GTG) has announced the launch of another city centre project – Olympus City Garden! Life at oval-shaped Olympus will be geared towards a healthy, active lifestyle. GTG plan five swimming pools spread over the grounds, including a massive 1,000sqm free-form one. There will be a Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna plus badminton courts and a yoga-room. And, to top it all Olympus City Garden will have a roof-top providing both a golf range and sky-gym containing state-of-theart equipment. Life at Olympus will also be about after-work convenience and leisure. Besides providing all of these lifestyle features, Olympus plans to cater to the leisure side of life by providing a supermarket, cafés, restaurants and shops - more than 700sqm of retail space in total! Olympus will have of six Mediterranean-style buildings featuring flower-boxes on the balconies to enhance the park-like atmosphere. The buildings are set over eightrai amid tropical gardens, a butterfly and cactus garden, lit footpaths, pools, fountains and circled by a jogging track. Parking is completely underground, and all buildings can
be easily accessed from the basement car-park. By providing features that condo residents would normally have leave the grounds to find, Olympus creates a real sense of the utmost security and practical self-reliance. And, by being in the centre of Pattaya, Olympus is able to offer residents more options in their choice of shopping, dining and leisure. The features and facilities rival anything on offer at any five-star hotel, Global Top claim. Olympus offers copyrighted smart designs by Yigal Yonah Heli of onebedroom and two-bedroom combined units. A spokesman for GTG said: “In giving careful consideration to the design of the units, we are able to offer the units at prices that start at less than Bt2m, and still provide all of the amenities and features listed and an excellent location right in the heart of the city. Great response “The response we’ve had once the concept has been explained to people has been phenomenal. We’ve been overrun with requests to book units before we’ve even had a chance to publish the price list.” The spokesman explained how Global Top arrived at the concept
“I bought into the Mediterranean styling. I love the feeling it gives of being in Barcelona, Nice or Athens.” Miquel Messina– Avila, Spain
via what they consider to be an evolution in residential condominium developments. He said: “There was a time when our priorities were finding the best design to provide for our customer’s comfort and needs, and finding the most desirable locations in which to build our condominiums. Often, this meant paying more than we wanted to for a prime piece of land.” One of Global Top Group’s most popular developments is City Garden Pattaya, a four-building, 474-unit development just off Second Road in the heart of Pattaya. There, managing director Yigal Yonah Heli included 40 smaller studio units, to try and widen the range of interest that the development would create. These units were quick to sell out. The spokesman added: “While Yigal wished he had included more of these units in the development, he also took note of their success, and the seed of the evolution to the new business model was planted. “As we thought about why some of the fastest-selling units were also the smallest, we looked at all of the factors that might account for the high rate of sale.” City Garden Pattaya is located right in the heart of the city, less than 200 metres from the beach
Popular development Four years after it opened, City Garden Pattaya is still one of Pattaya’s most popular developments. There is a very high rate of investment return in its rental business, and it is one of the most difficult developments in which to find a vacancy. The spokesman said: “Global Top Group realised that for the buyers who had invested in these smaller units, the unit’s floor-space was far less important than the location. “These customers were investing in units that are in a tropical, beach environment. They were not going to spend a lot of their time indoors. For them, the important thing was easy access to external shops and attractions. Yet, they still wanted a unit that was built to high-quality standards, had desirable features and was comfortable. It was still an
investment, and it was still a home. “We focused on the design of the individual units even more closely. We utilised smart design principles to maximise and make better use of the unit’s area and fixtures. We began to research our fixtures and materials based on quality, as quality means lower maintenance costs. In the end, we were able to offer a more livable space while maintaining our competitive pricing. “Knowing we were on to something, we continued our focus on the two-prong strategy of the design of the individual unit and the location of the overall development.” He added: “We thought, if the location was the most important aspect to one group of customers, would the customers who still preferred larger units also appreciate a better location and easier access to shops and facilities as well? “And we took this idea further. A few developments provided minimarts and laundries. But, life in warmweather countries is not only about being able to have a market close by, or a laundry in the neighbourhood. It’s about being able to be outside in a comfortable environment that allows one to enjoy the day or evening. “And, if that environment is right within the development itself, it would
“My family first came to Pattaya three years ago, when City Garden Pattaya was relatively new. My wife mentioned that it was great to find a place in the middle of everything that still offered some solitude and security. Before, we felt like we had spent half our holiday time on a bus.” Dmitri Bukraev – Minsk, Russia
definitely appeal to all customers – because every customer appreciates the convenience of having everything at their fingertips, and having that convenience around the clock.” Global Top felt that by providing a range of tasteful, well-thought out facilities within the development, they could create a better location. The company searched for the perfect site for this new business model. They looked for a parcel of land that had the perfect city location, one that would provide easy access to main roads, yet offer a unique measure of privacy and security. New ideas Above all, they looked for one that would be large enough to showcase the experience they had gained over the years, and large enough to contain all of their new ideas for this residential park. They looked for a site within a short distance of the beaches of Jomtien, Pratumnak and Pattaya and they found it in central Pattaya behind Tony’s Gym, with direct access to the main streets of Pattaya Thai, and Soi Kopai. The spokesman added: “Once we had found the perfect location, we began to design our development. That development is Olympus City Garden.” |
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and right around the corner from the prime shopping area. Central Festival shopping mall is within walking distance, as are hundreds of restaurants and bars. The spokesman continued: “The desirable location was one of the main draws. Yigal knew this from the beginning and we played it up in our marketing and advertising for City Garden Pattaya.”
special report • dave buckley
Apartments just a walk away from the ferry
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f you enjoy island life there’s a project about to launch on Koh Samet that might be just the thing for you. Paradise Residences will be built literally a short walk away from the ferry terminal. You can simply leave the boat and be in your apartment within minutes. Each of the residences – 36 of them in the first phase – will be fully furnished and owners will have the option of living in them throughout the year or offering them to be rented out when it suits them for a percentage of the rental income. Given that the island is fast losing its backpacker image and attracting more wealthier tourists there should be no problem renting the rooms out
say the developers, Blue Diamond Construction. Projected income for hiring out the rooms differs as you might expect based on which floor and what room size but just to give an idea it is thought that the per weekend day figure for a studio would be between Bt1,500 and Bt2,500 for a studio; a one-bed would rent out for Bt2,100-2,800. Pricing To buy a studio will cost between Bt2,550,00 and Bt2,975,000 and one-bedroom units range between Bt3,520,000 and Bt4,750,000 dependent on views and floor. Apartment sizes will be 34sqm for a studio and the majority of the one-
Pictured are the projected rooftop pool which will be in the second phase plus a typical studio room. Main picture shows the first phase which faces the ferry and on the right you can see just how close the ferry building will be.
bedroom apartments will be 44sqm although there will be four (one to each floor) slightly bigger at 50sqm. With the exception of 10 studios on the first and second floors all other apartments will have sea views. All units are leasehold (25 years plus extensions) as is common with island properties. The developers are keen to point out that the development will be run on the lines of a condotel, “nothing to do with timeshare”. The building will be in an L-shape just four floors high and a wall construction system called Easy Panel will be employed. Easy Panel is quick to erect, the walls will all be straight and the acoustics will be
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good with virtually no noise from neighbours. The Easy Panels also keep the cool in and the heat out. “It’s a product of the future that will allow us to erect 500sqm of walls in a day,” said a spokesman for Blue Diamond. “They are using this a lot now in the US and UK.” The spokesman said he felt construction of the first phase would take six-eight months after the start date. A second phase comprising just 15 rooms spread over three floors is planned with the fourth floor being home to a rooftop pool and restaurant. l If you would like to know more about Paradise Residences email amazingsalesnrentals@gmail.com or phone 098 404 1500.
health • dr iain corness
Dr Iain Corness (left) is a medical doctor who has worked in the UK, Europe and Australia, before coming to Thailand in 1997 to become a consultant at the Bangkok Hospital Pattaya (email: inquiry@bph.co.th). He has been writing for newspapers and magazines since 1967 and is currently a special correspondent for the Pattaya Mail, technical editor for Asean Autobiz, and contributor to many coffee table magazines in Thailand.
I can see clearly now ...
I
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bumped into one of my old friends in the hospital a couple of weeks ago. It turned out that he had a problem with his eyes when he was in Italy, and he was worried that the solution he stored his lenses in may have been contaminated. Now, this can happen, and if you get any sort of eye infection, you have to very rigorously clean and disinfect both the contact lenses, and the natty little container that you store them in each night. You do take your lenses out each night, don’t you? Even with all the advances in lenses, the ophthalmologists still recommend you give the eyes a rest each night. After all, contact lenses are still ‘foreign bodies’. As you can see (pun intended), it isn’t just a case of bunging some in and forgetting about it. Quite the reverse. With all our organs that can go wrong, go wrong, go wrong,
Infection is not to be thought of as something that just happens and, when it does, you just pop in a few eye drops and get better automatically.
did you know that eye problems are some of the commonest reasons for a doctor visit? And for those of you who wear contact lenses (like me) there are even more eye problems for us to get, despite the common use of contact lenses these days. There are many types of contact lenses, the old hard ones were made of a material called polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) which is rigid and does not let oxygen through, but the newer ones have a material called siloxane which is gas permeable. These hard lenses are the most trouble free, although the most difficult to look after. Sounds topsyturvy, I know. The second type of lens is the soft contact lens, of which there is a “permanent” style and a disposable type. These are made of hydroxymethylmethacrylate (HEMA) which contains between 30-60 per cent water and are gas permeable.
However, soft disposable lenses give the most problems, but are the easiest to look after, in direct contrast with the hard lenses. Again sounds weird, I know. Infection is not to be thought of as something that just happens and, when it does, you just pop in a few eye drops and get better automatically. Bacterial infection can be sight threatening and the cornea (the clear bit in the centre that you look through) can be destroyed in 24 to 48 hours. There is also a parasite that can get into the eye of contact lens users who have rinsed their lens with contaminated water, or who have worn their lenses swimming in contaminated water. Look after your lenses, take them out at night, change them frequently and remove them immediately there is any irritation or redness. “See” you next month!
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events • promotions
It’s a run-for-fun New Year
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One of Pattaya’s most colourful events is the Rainbow Run on January 18 when fun-run participants will be liberally doused with coloured powder during the 5km event.
welcome runners home by performing popular hits at the finish line, heralding the start of the post-run party. Registration can be done online or at Buddha Hill on Saturday 17 January from 9.00am to 5.00pm and on Sunday, January 18 from 6.00am. Coloured powder The Bt400 on-site registration fee will include a white T-shirt, four bags of coloured powder, a race bin and a ticket to the post-race party. Runners are asked to dress creatively and turn up wearing as much white as possible, although not essential. The proceeds of the Pattaya Colour Run will go entirely to projects helping underprivileged children and the aged in Thailand.
Another fun even taking place in January is the Pattaya Jungle Hash House Harriers’ Jungle Monkey Hash on January 24. This men-only event, with the accent very much on fun, his held about every two month. For more information visit the website www. pattayajungle.com. One of the most popular fun events in Pattaya is the annual Bed Race which will take place for the seventh time along Beach Road on January 25. Last year more than 20 decorated beds took part. They navigated the 2km route from Central Festival to Walking Street in front of crowds of onlookers who were entertained by the musical trio Jasper 3.
The eighth running of the Columbia Trail Masters trail running championship takes place at Khao Mai Keao Reservation Park on January 11.
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f your New Year resolution is to get into shape, then January provides the perfect opportunity to do just that with outdoor activity being the central theme to many events in and around Pattaya. Most prominent among them is the Columbia Trail Masters Episode VIII, the trail running championship that takes place at Khao Mai Keao Reservation Park on January 11. Unlike road and track running, trail running takes place in natural settings, combining the outdoor scenery of hiking with the physical challenges of running. Races will be held over 50km, 25km and 10km in addition to a 3km fun-run for kids and families in which hundreds are expected to compete with local schools and communities invited to take part. More serious runners will compete in various age groups for both men and women with trophies and cash prizes of up to Bt5,000 on offer for the leaders. The 50km race will get under way at 6.30am, the 25km race at 6.50am and to 10km race at 7.10am. The 3km fun run will begin at 7.15am. A colourful occasion is guaranteed when the Rotary Jomtien-Pattaya Rainbow Run gets under way at Pattaya’s Buddha Hill at 8.00am on January 18. The 5km fun-run will be no ordinary event with participants of all abilities and ages being doused from head to toe with coloured powder while they sprint, jog or walk the route around Buddha Hill. The Rainbow Run is entirely focused on fun, so there is no competitive atmosphere, no recorded times and no age restrictions. There will be four stops on the run where volunteers will throw nontoxic colours which organisers stress is a natural corn starch-based product that will not stain hair or cause any kind of harm. Volunteer throwers will aim the colours at mid-body, although sunglasses may be needed to keep the powder out of your eyes. Pop group Spring Break will
events • promotions
The annual Pattaya Bed Race is one of the most eagerly-awaited fun events.
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This year’s event will again start in front of Central Festival Pattaya Beach with competing teams paying an entry fee of Bt5,000 which will go City Hall and Rotary Club of Pattaya charity projects. First across the finish line last year was the team from the Father Ray Foundation, who were followed home by the bed of London’s Seashells Restaurant, pushed by foreign volunteers at the Foundation. Third to finish was the team from the Cape Dara Hotel in Naklua who were declared overall champions after gaining extra points for the best decorated bed. Runners-up were the team from the Hard Rock Hotel with the Hilton Hotel claiming the trophy for third. Saturday, January 11 is Thailand’s National Children’s Day when kids will be allowed in free – or at least at reduced prices – to many attractions in and around the city.
Children’s Day is recognised in many places around the world and was first proclaimed by the World Conference for the Well-being of Children in 1925 and then established universally in 1954 to protect an ‘appropriate’ day. Thailand National Children’s Day is celebrated on the second Saturday in January. Known as Wan Dek, Children’s Day is celebrated to give children the opportunity to have fun and to create awareness about their significant role towards the development of the country. Cricket is up and running again in Thailand with Pattaya Cricket Club scheduled to play two limited overs games in the Bangkok Cricket League at the Thai Polo Club, Horseshoe Point. The first match is against Chicha CC on January 11 and the second against Siam CC on January 18. Both games start at 11.00am. As a precursor to February’s PTT
Pattaya Cricket Club will play two limited overs games this month.
events • promotions
6.00pm in a beautiful golf course setting. Tickets cost Bt2,500. And the three-day Thailand International Jazz Conference, featuring workshops and soloist competitions, gets under way at Mahidol University on January 26. Tickets from ThaiTicketMajor outlets. Opera lovers have a treat in store at Ben’s Theatre, Jomtien, on January 9 when soprano Nattida Gumchai, Baritone Saran Senavinin and pianist Morakot Cherdchoongarm, all from the Thailand Grand Opera, will be in concert from 8pm. The programme will include Debussy, Lehár, Fauré, Donizetti, Bizet, Strauss, Delibes, Barber and Donaudy. Tickets cost Bt600. Email benstheatrejomtien@gmail.com for reservations. Meanwhile, Russian classical pianist Ilya Kondratiev will perform at the small Eelswamp theatre on
The Thai Army opens its doors to curious kids on Thailand’s Children’s Day. Here a youngster takes a keen interest in the equipment of a soldier at Chiang Mai Royal Thai Air Force base. Canadian crooner Michael Bublé takes centre stage at the Impact Arena on January 24. PIMEX, the Phuket International Boat Show, will feature up to 60 waterborne vessels and 120 exhibitors during the four-day event which gets under way on January 8.
January 24 at 5.00pm and January 26 and 6.00pm. The Music Room at Eelswamp is located in the house of the owner of Lulu and Daisy Goat Farm, in Nongplalai (eelswamp in Thai). It is situated between Sukhumvit and The Regent School. Sailors will no doubt be heading to Phuket for the annual PIMEX Phuket International Boat Show from January 8-11. Up to 60 boats, both power and sail from 10 to 35 metres, will be in the water. There will also be marina activities on the RPM boardwalk and 2,500 square metres of indoor exhibition space. There will be as many as 120 exhibiting companies representing over 250 brands worldwide. Finally, a festival with a difference. The three-day Lost in Paradise festival gets under way the Viharn Sean Valley, 20 km from Pattaya near Silverlake, on January 16. The entertainment-packed weekend is a project of local people “with a real passion and obsession with Psychedelic Trance”. Details on Facebook - Lost in Paradise Festival “Unwetted lotus” event. Robert Collins
Details of published events are correct at the time of going to press but are subject to change without notice. Readers are advised to check with event organisers.
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Tennis Open in Pattaya, the Pyramid Tennis Academy in Bangkok will stage the fifth International Senior Tennis Tournament between January 20 and February 4. Events will consist of men’s and women’s doubles in various age categories from 40 to 75. In the past, competitors from 17 countries have taken part on the event organised by the Thai Tennis Friendship Association. Pop standards, classical and jazz feature on January’s music agenda with Canadian crooner Michael Bublé leading the way in concert at the Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani on January 24 at 9.30pm. Tickets cost between Bt2,000 and Bt6,500 from ThaiTicketMajor outlets. Jazz is heavily represented by Jazz on the Green at Laem Chabang Country Club on January 31 with an evening of jazz and a BBQ grill from
advertorial • canard bizar
Where it all happens – exterior and interiors from Canard Bizar. Below: Australian Rib Eye which is on special this month.
Producing great food is challenge Peter relishes
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eter de Kegel is a native of Belgium who has a real passion (his word) for food and likes nothing better than to have a challenge put to him by customers in his Canard Bizar restaurant or clients of the wholesale business he runs from same premises opposite the fire station in Bang Saray. “I say to my restaurant customers, if you have a traditional dish from your home country that you miss, tell us and we will try to make it for you,” he said. And it’s very much the same with his wholesale business. If a customer has a “gap” in the menu Peter prides himself of solving the problem and coming up with a solution. He will make a dish many times over until he has perfected it and is confident his staff can hit the same high quality time after time. “Sometimes this can result in throwing quite a bit of food away but it’s worth it to get things right,” said Peter. “I believe that nothing is too expensive when the quality is right.” Peter only opened the restaurant side of his business a few weeks ago but he has been involved in the
origin of the name Canard Bizar is an expression well known to residents of Ghent in Peter’s home country, Belgium. It is, as Peter says, a name no one easily forgets and, roughly explained, it stems from how bizarre a duck looks when walking (waddling) along. It is applied to someone who has consumed too much booze as he or she looks like they, too, are waddling when under the influence.
wholesale side of things since the middle of last year. “Wholesale is my core business and I tend to concentrate on dishes that are normally produced in European kitchens. I don’t see much point trying to provide, say, Indian or Thai food when there are others who can do it better,” said Peter. So, given the wholesale business was working well, why did he start the restaurant? Unsociable “Wholesaling can be very unsociable,” he replied. “Once you have won the business of a customer and are in control of the quality they expect I might only speak to them on the phone for repeat orders. The restaurant allows me to meet more people and try out new dishes on them.” Peter says that quality control is the key to running a successful business involving food – that’s why he is forever experimenting. While I was sitting with him he asked me to try some apple strudel he was bidding to perfect. And very nice it was, too. Plenty of whole apple pieces as opposed to sauce-like goo. Speaking of sauces, that’s an area
Peter specialises in. So if you are looking for an exciting sauce to go with meat or fish he could be the man to contact. When Peter was 21 he was such a “foodie” that he weighed in at 133 kilos. He is now 72 kilos. How? “Working up a sweat in the kitchen that’s all. I’m not into sports.” Even so, it’s difficult to see how he can keep his weight down when involved with food all day. “Yes, I taste everything,” he says. “I think my staff call me the ‘Spoonman’ because I can easily use 10-15 spoons to taste a new product.” There isn’t room here to list every product Peter gets involved in but his offerings are as diverse as German sausages, organic tea and coffee caps. He also is a re-seller for Belgian beers such as Duvel which outshines just about any beer you can buy here. He has bread baked on the premises before opening up at 7.30 to serve it. Closing time is 10pm. A typical set meal? Try tuna salad as a starter followed by steak with crispy salad, Belgian fries and black pepper cream sauce. Dessert and a glass of beer all for Bt200. Dave Buckley
A new restaurant/bakery is hatched in Bang Saray - Canard Bizar. Like the name suggests, it is different compared to others. This is noticeable in their menu, but also the interior. Everything is home-made‌ from the mustards, food dishes—even the dÊcor. Activities in the bakery begin very early, 3:30 am,
when all the breads and pastries start to be made. The dining room and kitchen are open from 7:30 am until 10:00 pm, preparing delightful food dishes with top quality products. French butter croissant
January special Australian Rib eye steak (300 gram) Belgium fries, salad and cream sauce 350 baht Official supplier of
By seller of
Telephone :
08 2459 5733
mystery columnist • our man at large
This month our man at large reflects on the changing face(s) of the tourists visiting Thailand’s shores and finds that some of the numbers do not make for encouraging reading.
Where are the tourists?
T
52 REM 01/2015
he events in Thailand in recent times have certainly had a negative impact on many tourist destinations within the Kingdom such as Phuket, Hua Hin and, of course, Pattaya. The traditional start of the high season in October saw The Tourism Department reporting that the number of tourist coming to Thailand had fallen by 6.1 per cent on the previous October. The figures also suggested that the number of tourist visiting Thailand was 10.3 per cent down on the previous year in the first nine months of 2014. The same report also claimed that these figures were actually bolstered by the sharp rise in the number of visitors coming from China with a reported 15.3 per cent increase in October against the same month in 2013. All this sounds positive until you look at the number of frequent visitors from other Asian countries.
The number for Japanese guests was down 10.1 per cent, for South Koreans it was down 15 per cent and those from Taiwan down 8.5 per cent all when compared against the same month of October in 2013. In recent years we have also seen a sharp change in demographics of those coming from Europe. Five years ago the majority, in Pattaya at least, were coming from Western European areas such as the UK and Germany with a far share of Scandinavians. Alarming drop The majority of European visitors are now coming from Eastern Europe, mainly from Russia. In the first nine months of 2014 there was no reported increase or decrease in the number of visitors coming although there was an alarming 23.2 per cent drop in the number of visitors coming from Russia in October 2014. This was primarily put down
In recent years we have seen a sharp change in the demographics of those coming from Europe.
to the sharp fall in the value of the rouble and probably had little to do with events in Thailand. The report also included figures from another popular group of tourists, those coming from the US. The falls had been less significant compared to other markets with a fall of 6.6 per cent in October and down 4.6 per cent for 2014. Worryingly, US citizens in Thailand have just been warned to be vigilant against potential attacks on individuals following the release of confidential CIA reports relating to terrorism post 9/11. Although other countries may be seen as being more of a risk it may persuade some citizens to stay at home and not venture overseas. We have already established that some falls are beyond what is happening in Thailand alone but it is clear that Thailand does appear to falling behind in the tourism stakes, so where are people going to? In South East Asia at least,
in the number of short-term visitors who are either coming on holiday, visiting relatives or coming to work on short-term contracts.
The country
Left behind? Regardless of their reasons, these visitors will need to spend a percentage of their income in Thailand. On the downside, if Thailand doesn’t embrace the community it may get left behind with the countries already mentioned taking up the slack. If this does happen it is likely to have a negative affect on Thailand’s tourist market as the infrastructure in these competitors will improve and potentially give them a greater opportunity to overtake Thailand. The question that everyone will be asking is: What will be the effect on Pattaya long term? We all know that there are large numbers of developments going on in Pattaya in terms of new villages, condominiums and shopping malls. Surely this would not be happening if the developers were not confident about the long term future of Pattaya? I have consistently mentioned the changing face of Pattaya in previous articles and perhaps this will be one of the main factors. We have already established that, at present at least, the only significantly rising group of tourists coming to Thailand is the Chinese. Will we see further moves away from the number of bars in the city and
competition
is now facing very real in the tourist industry from neighbouring countries and will need to adjust to be able to compete. Wholesale changes are not needed but perhaps a change in thinking in a few areas will suffice.
move more to meet the demands of these Chinese tourists? One thing is for certain, 2014 was not a good year for Thailand in many respects and everyone will be looking for improvements in 2015. Thailand has so much to offer to so many people but it certainly needs to improve its reputation on the world stage. The country is now facing very real competition in the tourist industry from neighbouring countries and will need to adjust to be able to compete. Wholesale changes are not needed but perhaps a change in thinking in a few areas will suffice? This year could really be a make or break one so let’s keep our fingers crossed for a positive outcome. Moments of frustration As always space in running short. I am sure all of us who live here in Thailand love the place the majority of the time although have moments of frustration when we feel hampered by red tape, seemingly increasing prices and the occasional spot of racism aimed towards us, but would we really want to be back living in our home lands? Let’s hope tourism bounces back for all of our sakes and businesses start booming once again.
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Myanmar seems to be growing in popularity after the country decided to open up. Although actual figures month-on-month are hard to find the number of tourist going to Myanmar rose from 125,085 in December 2012 to 198,989 in August 2014. Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam also seem in be increasing in popularity and being seen as up and coming alternatives to Thailand with visas appearing to be easier to obtain. The Philippines is also a popular destination for a number of US and UK citizens who are at, or approaching, retirement age. UK citizens in the Philippines will receive annual increases on their state pensions something that is not possible in Thailand or some other South East Asian countries. With the world economy suffering and disposable incomes of many people in this age group falling this is something that may figure more in people’s plans in the years to come. The ASEAN community is due to come into play this year and is something that could have either a positive or negative affect on Thailand dependent on how those at the helm set out their stall. Potentially, ASEAN could see an increase in the number of companies from within the ASEAN community choosing to invest in Thailand. If this is the case not only will it see increasing numbers of expats from these countries but also an increase
special report • dave buckley
Mediterranean
Clubhouse
Tyrolean
Arcadia’s best of the West
54 REM 01/2015
A
rcadia Beach Continental, Heights Holdings’ fourth development under the Arcadia brand, promises a fusion of unique Western stylistic features in what the company terms “inner-city resort living in Pattaya on an unprecedented scale”. For inspiration, the design team turned to the Mediterranean’s terracotta landscapes, the Swiss Alps, the Iberian Peninsula and the Western Steppe to create “an oasis of European style” on 11 rai of land off Thappraya Road Soi 9. With completion expected at the end of 2017, Arcadia Beach Continental will comprise 1,350 apartments in five, eight-storey buildings up to 130 metres apart. More than 60 per cent of the site will be devoted to recreational areas. These will include a massive 3,500sqm lagoon pool with waterfalls, submerged sunbeds and landscaped islands, a Mediterranean-themed
restaurant and an Iberian-themed clubhouse, the centrepiece of the development. The clubhouse will feature a rooftop infinity-edge pool, a fullyequipped fitness centre, Jacuzzi, sauna and spa, shopping arcade and two floors of underground parking. Attractive discounts Pre-launch sales have already started with attractive discounts available to early investors under Heights Holdings’ early-bird promotion. Prices start at Bt1.299m for a onebed, 26sqm unit and Bt2.598m for a two-bed apartment of 52sqm. Twobedroom VIP poolside corner units of 57.5, 63.5 and 64sqm are available for Thai or foreign ownership at Bt70,000 per sqm. All prices include a quality furniture package to the value of Bt300,000. A Heights Holdings spokesman said: “Arcadia Beach Continental will offer a genuine resort experience in
FEATURES l Europeanthemed resort of 1,350 units. l Five, eightstorey buildings on 11 rai. l Huge pool with submerged sunbeds, waterfalls and landscaped islands. l Fully-themed, hotel-style lobby and central clubhouse. l Unique VIP two-bedroom corner units. l Entry-level pricing from Bt1.299m freehold.
Pattaya. It has been designed with the resident in mind. Each apartment offers comfort and convenience and includes luxurious, marble-styled interiors, secure electronic entry systems and recessed atmospheric lighting. “Each building features a selection of VIP corner apartments, with complimentary furniture packages on offer for early-bird buyers.” Positioned as it is between Pattaya and Jomtien, Arcadia Beach Continental’s location is quiet yet convenient. It also represents an ideal investment opportunity and the message from the developer is hurry while the pre-launch period lasts. The spokesman added: “As with the overwhelmingly popular Arcadia Beach Resort Pattaya, Arcadia Beach Continental caters for savvy investors with the option to purchase under a full service rental guarantee programme on a limited selection of units.”|
news • property
Extra show day pays off
56 REM 01/2015
Event at Ocean Marina enjoys it biggest ever turnout
The Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show, held in late November at South East Asia’s largest marina, Ocean Marina, set a series of new records. The largest exhibitor display (12,000 sqm) and the most exhibitors (104) ever, as well as the best quality line-up of boats in-the-water and 5,820 visitors to the show made it the largest visitor turnout yet. Now in its third year, the organisers’ decision to expand the show to a four-day format proved to be a wise one as the opening two days (Thursday and Friday) attracted almost half the total number of visitors. “We’re very pleased with the visitor turnout this year. Each year our goal is to grow interest in boating in the domestic market and also to attract more international visitors, and for the third year in a row we have seen the number of visitors grow,” said Mrs Supatra Angkawinijwong, deputy managing director of Ocean Property, organisers of the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show (OMPBS). A mixed visitor demographic of primarily Europeans and Thais was recorded through the gates with interest in the boat displays at an all time high.
With the size of the show, in terms of number of exhibitors and display area, up considerably, the quality and diversity of products and services from the marine and lifestyle sectors was also more than ever before. Yacht dealers and brokers reported solid sales leads and hot prospects – all new buyers that came from the show. Similarly, the automotive sector – including Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, Bentley, Porsche and more – reported tangible sales leads as did the luxury real estate offerings at the show. Hot prospects “Feedback from exhibitors has been very encouraging. Sales leads and hot prospects have been reported by many yacht dealers and brokers. Auto exhibitors and real estate developers also reported strong leads and interest from new buyers who came through the show,” added Mrs Angkawinijwong. The diverse range of marine accessories and marine products, a sector of the show that continues to grow and something that sets OMPBS apart from other shows in the region, saw sales in the region of more than Bt2m.
Another major event will be held at Ocean Marina at the end of April. The Top of the Gulf Regatta 2015 will start on April 30 and finish on May 4.
Property developers reported strong interest, luxury products such as jewellery recorded large purchases and the food and beverage outlets in the show reported record sales. Visitors enjoyed the array of activities on offer: the free yacht cruises which departed every 30 minutes were full throughout the show, and the display of water toys in action and the jetpack flying board demonstrations proved to be popular with all. Introduced for the first time this year, the International Fishing Boat Competition, organised by the Thailand Fishing Tackle Trade and Manufacture Association in cooperation with Ocean Marina, was a big hit with lots of tough competition over the two days and talk of expanding it further next year, while the one day Boat & Yacht Thailand 2014 Conference, held under the theme of ‘Green Boating’, took place to a packed meeting room of more than 70 industry and guests. Planning is already underway for the fourth annual Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show, which will take place at Ocean Marina 26th to 29th November 2015.
motoring • dr iain corness
What it was to be a trend-setter
58 REM 01/2015
My birthday is in November. Funny how when you are a child it seems as if there are 18 months between birthdays, but when you get older, there’s only three months between them. One of the great mysteries of the world. Anyway, John English, my old partner in the race team (not Mr Bean/Rowan Atkinson), came up from Australia for the event and like everyone who has just met up again, we started to reminisce about the ‘good old days’. You know the score, ‘The older I get – the faster I was!’ However, with John and I it was a little different. We were not only fast, but we were trendsetters as well. Some 30 years ago, John and I were in the Australian Team Castrol in our Mk 1 Ford Escorts, and were doing well, but not outstanding. But at the end of 1979 I had a plan that would change all that. I completed a course in oxy-welding, and with a certificate of competence as well as a medical degree, and with salesman John having previously been a fitter and turner, we began the project. Stage 1 was to lose weight. With a grinder and an oxy torch we cut
away everything from the windscreen forward, including the firewall. We then cut away everything from the rear window backwards. It was certainly becoming light. Now was the time to include design work on the suspension, and here I had an ally in one of Australia’s top automotive engineers, the late Ivan Tighe. At that stage, Ivan was racing an Elfin 622 open-wheeler in the Formula 2 series. Working on the principle that if the suspension worked for the Elfin, it could work for a sports sedan Escort, I measured the 622’s front suspension. Exact copy My working drawing was an exact copy, and we then made a front spaceframe incorporating the suspension pick up points in space. Next we fabricated a five link rear end incorporating coil-over shock absorbers, and then made a spaceframe at the rear to carry those suspension pick-up points. Bryan Byrt Ford was the largest Ford Dealership in the southern hemisphere, and Les Gould, the Castrol rep, blew in the ear of the dealer principal John Harris. Even
Talking of trendsetters ... the Bond films have always provided a good vehicle (pun deliberate) for many top cars. Since the second 007 film – Goldfinger – Aston Martins have featured on a regular basis. Back then it was the DB5 but for the upcoming 24th James Bond film, Spectre, this DB10 (below) was unveiled at Pinewood Studios.
though Harris was skeptical (what would a doctor and a salesman know about building race cars?) we were allocated space in the workshop and two mechanics detailed to assist us. This was heaven! So working nights and weekends we completed my car and then finished John’s car in six weeks,. We campaigned the cars in 1980 with the Lotus Twin Cam engines, but the power was poor and the reliability even worse. So at the end of 1980 we were again the first to go to rotary power in Queensland. No, the doctor and the salesman did leave their mark in Australian sports sedan history, and spawned a complete new category of cars. John and I are still very proud with what we achieved 30 years ago. It was fun being trend-setters!
advertorial • green field villas
Secrets behind success of Green Field Villas 1-5
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60 REM 01/2015
reen Field Development Co Ltd, run by Paul and Jan Barrett and their long-established team, is one of the oldest and most successful developers on the Eastern Seaboard, constructing high quality houses to exacting European standards in East Pattaya. Paul and Jan were involved in several different construction projects in around the city before deciding in 2004 to go it alone with the aptly named Green Field Villas 1 village, their first venture in Nongprue. Initially, Paul had fears about the location of the 57-house development, but his optimism won the day as he followed other, more positive, instincts and the Green Field success story began. Non-claustrophobic The company has stuck to its principles when designing projects. All its houses are built on large land plots providing open, non-claustrophobic, village environments. In fact, many
residents choose to live in their Green Field homes for many years with some even saying they couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. All Green Field houses are built to the highest European standards and offer superb value for money in the medium-price housing market range. The fact that most of those re-sold have actually appreciated in value – a notoriously difficult achievement in Thailand – is testament to their excellent quality and high demand among potential purchasers with many agents clamouring to get the first listings for real estate sales. Paul takes great pride in his work and attributes superb security in all Green Field villages and excellent maintenance by the respective village committees to after-sales service which, he says, is second to none. Paul believes his thorough knowledge of the industry gives him an advantage over many of his competitors. He is a constant presence at the newest village under construction and his hands-on approach ensures that
l All pictures on these three pages are from the actual show houses on GFV5 project. If you would like to know more about this or any of the other four company developments please contact the sales office on 038 732 280-1, or email greenfield@ greenfieldvillas. com
the high standards he has set are maintained. In fact, so confident is he in the quality of his work that he is happy to take would-be purchasers to the company’s earlier projects, enabling them to speak to long-term residents and get an insight into what they can expect when they buy a Green Field home. Hugely respected On the social scene, Paul, Jan and the team may be less well known than some of their counterparts, but they are held in high regard by those in the business. This hugely respected group of people prefers to let the quality of its houses do the talking for them. All Green Field projects are sold quickly after launch with empty plots virtually unheard of. The total absence of long periods waiting for houses to be completed has been a key factor in the success of previous projects. Green Field Villas 2, located between Soi Khao Noi and Soi
The largest GFV By far the largest Green Field village, it comprises 92 properties from townhouses to three-bedroom bungalows and proved to be one of the fastest selling projects of its size in the region. Nothing was compromised in terms of quality, although the properties occupy
slightly smaller plots and were pitched at a lower price to reflect the demand in the area at the time. It was another shrewd move by this vastly experienced team. The most recently completed project is Green Field Villas 4, also in Nongprue, close to the temple at the end of Soi Nernplabwan. The project is the last word in luxury and, because it was pitched at affordable prices offering great value for money, all properties in the village sold quickly. All with pools Everything about Green Field Villas 4 screams quality, from the underground fibre optic internet cables to the fantastic, modern finishes to all properties. Houses range from three-bedroom bungalows to luxurious two-storey, four-bedroom, family homes, all of which are built on large plots with private swimming pools. And as you would expect from Green Field, the village is maintained to the highest standards with
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Nernplabwan, is just one resounding success story. Typically of Green Field, the project has plenty of greenery, open spaces and a fantastic, well maintained communal area reflecting the true family feel that you get on all Green Field villages. The project was long regarded as probably the best village in the area, both in terms of location and build quality, although this accolade has now perhaps fallen to the newer Green Field Villas 4. Green Field Villas 3 on the Soi Siam Country Club Road offers a slight shift in design in line with the changing customer demands during the construction period.
advertorial • green field villas
62 REM 01/2015
residents’ security paramount. All four completed projects are excellently located for local amenities and access to central Pattaya. Project 5, currently under construction, is another example of the team selecting prime land that had been overlooked by competitors who feared it was too far out of town. However, the development is just 15 minutes by road from Central Pattaya with easy access to motorways to Bangkok and Rayong. Country feel International Schools are just minutes away, yet the quiet development has a country feel about it, despite its convenient location. The final design of the village is flexible and yet to be finalised, but construction is well under way with some homes already completed. Initially, the village was going to be exclusively houses of luxury two-storeys and fourbedrooms, but the team is currently reassessing this for a section of the village following overwhelming
demand for some of the previous designs. Whatever the final design and configuration, the village will be of the same high standard that you would expect from a Green Field project. The villages have continuously evolved to take advantage of modern building methods, leading edge materials and, of course, the latest technologies. You would be hard pressed to find another village in Pattaya – or anywhere else in Thailand for that matter – that offers the same state-ofthe-art facilities and finishing touches that are standard on Green Field Villas 5. As someone once said: “You should remember the little things, because one day they may become big things.” It really is some of the finer touches that make this project stand out from the pack. As to the future, many thought Project 5 would be Green Field’s last, but Paul is as ambitious as ever. The entire team is constantly looking for new opportunities to drive the business forward. With few changes
You should remember the little things, because one day they may become big things.
of personnel since day one, the team is extremely experienced bringing individual knowledge and skills to each project. Paul and Jan have taken care to pass on their expertise so that the business can continue to run smoothly and efficiently for years to come, with or without them. The long-term objective is for family members to take over the day-to-day running of the business along with long established employees. Selling fast Project 5 is already selling fast and with a strong, well-grounded business, the future for Green Field Development Co Ltd looks as bright as ever. This should reassure prospective buyers that Green Field quality will be around for a long time and give other developers something to aspire to on their own developments. After an extremely successful first 10 years, this is just the beginning for Green Field with many more years surely still to come. |
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quiz • questions
Celebrity centenarians 1. Born in Stockholm, this movie star won three Academy Awards and four Golden Globes. The American Film Institute ranked her the fourth greatest movie actress of all time. 2. Notable plays from this Pulitzer Prizewinner include Death of a Salesman (1949) and The Crucible (1953), but it was his high profile marriage that earned him the greatest public attention. 3. A household name on British TV, this actor played pompous and bumbling characters, a description his co-workers said applied to the man himself. Coronation Street catapulted him into the public eye. 4. Renowned as an innovator in extinguishing and capping blazing, erupting oil well blowouts, this firefighter’s exploits in the 1962 Sahara Desert fire inspired the John Wayne movie Hellfighters.
66 REM 01/2015
5. The original No 1 in the first series of the BBC radio comedy series The Navy Lark, this actor is best remembered as the suave serial murderer Louis Mazzini in Kind Hearts and Coronets. 6. This native of Kenosha, Wisconsin achieved notoriety for creating widespread panic during his 1938 radio adaptation of The War
They would all have celebrated their 100th birthdays had they lived through 2015. The fact is they didn’t, but from the descriptions we have given here, can you guess the identities of these 20 posthumous centenarians from various walks of life who were all born in 1915? The answers appear on Page 85.
of the Worlds before becoming one of the all-time movie greats. 7. A 1963 sex scandal led to this Cabinet minister’s withdrawal from UK politics, after which he became a volunteer cleaning toilets at an East London charity. 8. A 1953 Academy Award for his performance in From Here to Eternity resurrected the flagging career of this American singer, actor and filmmaker who went on to sell more than 150 million records worldwide. 9. Living to 95, this English actor, comedian and singer-songwriter was once described by Charlie Chaplin as his “favourite clown”. 10. This military leader and politician became a fighting symbol of the new state of Israel as Defence Minister during the Six-Day War. 11. He (second from left above) is widely regarded as the inventor of the solid body electric guitar. 12. Best known for playing battleaxe characters, this English stage and screen actress featured alongside Sid James and John Le Mesurier in TV’s George and the Dragon. 13. Arrested in London for alleged human rights violations, this South American dictator (second
from right above) had 300 criminal charges pending at the time of his death in 2006. 14. This French cabaret singer became widely regarded as France’s national diva, as well as being one of France’s greatest international stars. 15. Born James Henry Miller, this English folk singer, songwriter, communist, labour activist, actor, poet, playwright and record producer wrote and performed songs such as Dirty Old Town and First Time Ever I Saw Your Face. 16. Born Eleanora Fagan in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this jazz singer, songwriter, and actress (above left) had a seminal influence on jazz and pop singing, despite her early death at the age of 44. 17. This American actress (above right) worked regularly from 1934 to her death in 1967, first in film and later in TV. Notable roles include Angels with Dirty Faces (1938), The Man Who Came to Dinner (1942), Kings Row (1942) and I Was a Male War Bride (1949). 18. A Canadian actor best known as a Battlestar Galactica regular and for playing Ben Cartwright in the TV western Bonanza.
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Many local bars organise golf days, often at better prices than casual golfers can negotiate with the course direct. If you plan to play regularly, consider membership of the Pattaya Sports Club as production of its membership card can help secure worthwhile discounts. The one-off registration fee is Bt400 plus Bt500 a year membership thereafter. Most golfers find they can save these sums within just a few rounds. Bangpra International: is one of several five-star courses in the area. This is an 18-hole, par 72 course with plenty of water on the front nine. Clubhouse has been renovated in style – even the toilets are automated! Tel: 038 341 149-50 Burapha Golf Club: is a four-star, 36-hole, par 72 course. The Eastern course suits up-and-coming golfers, while the Western challenges the more experienced. Reserving a tee-off time is advised. Tel: 038 372 700-1 Crystal Bay: Many palms has led to Hawaiian comparisons. Testing par 3s are a feature. Water adds to the look of the course, not just as a hazard. Virtually no rough. Good chance to play to your handicap or better. Tel: 038 349 370-80
Whatever standard you play to you will find a course to suit within an hour’s drive. Here are just some of them.
designed this in conjunction with the late Desmond Muirhead. Many holes test accuracy, not length, of drive. Tel: 038 941 111 Great Lake: is a 36-hole, par 72, Nick Faldo design to the east of Pattaya. The 120 bunkers, water hazards and lovely setting make this a challenging course at moderate prices. Tel: 038 622 630 Greenwood (formerly Noble Place): is well designed 27-hole, par 72 course. A well-kept course with few water hazards allows good scoring for high handicappers. Tel: 081 484 9066, 081 484 9069 Laem Chebang International: in terms of course, facilities and expense this Jack Nicklaus-designed, 27-hole, par 72 course is one of the top ones. Set in spectacular surroundings on mountain, valley and lake nines. Carts are compulsory. Tel: 038 372 273 Pattana Golf and Sports Resort: Three nine-hole course – one of which features a par 6; another starts with an intimidating drive between two stretches of water that catches out many a high handicapper. The course is a par 72 set in more than 1,200 rai. Tel: 038 318 999
Eastern Star: near Bang Chang is an 18-hole, par 72 four-star course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. The course with a five-star clubhouse is set in an old coconut plantation and is popular with families due to its pools and sports club adjacent. Tel: 038 630 410-6
Pattavia Century (formerly Century Chonburi): Designed by Nick Faldo, this 18-hole, par 72 course, has recently undergone remodelling on some of the holes. And there is a new clubhouse to enjoy. Tel: 081 304 1545
The Emerald: Close to Bang Chang, Emerald is another course where Nick Faldo has left his mark. He
Pattaya Country Club: located 25 kms outside Pattaya on Route 36 is popular with expat golfers. This 18-
hole course gives value for money. Tel: 038 423 718-9 Phoenix: not far outside of the city this offers a five-star clubhouse and a four-star, 27-hole, par 72 course which is found between Pattaya and Sattahip in a well marked turning off the Sukhumvit. The three nines are called Ocean, Lake and Mountain. Tel: 038 239 391-5, 239 400 Rayong Green Valley: this is a Wolveridge and Thompson course of 18 holes, classed as five-star for both the course and clubhouse (which it shares with St Andrews). Suits all handicaps, but beware the water. Tel: 038 603 000-5 Royal Thai Navy (Plutaluang): reasonable green fees ensure this 36hole, par 72 venue is well used but is rarely too busy. Feature holes include The Lighthouse par 3 surrounded by water. Tel & Fax: 038 246 056-7 Siam Country Club, Old Course: is a three-star, 18-hole course, a fourstar clubhouse and a five star price. Gentle hills with large trees give it the feeling of Western golf courses. Host to the LPGA tournament early each year. Tel: 038 909 700 Siam Country Club, Plantation Course: 27-hole course opened in 2008 and is already regarded as one of the most difficult. Three holes share the same green – a first in Asia. Carts are compulsory. Clubhouse is a delight. Tel: 038 909 600 St Andrews 2000: is considered one of the best in the area. This course is a serious challenge. Carts are compulsory. Boasts two par 6 holes. Tel: 038 030 660-2
Sun FGET SET 0
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Chance to win a quality two hour massage
AS part of our we’ve decided launch campaign pairs of ‘his’ to give away three and for an invigorat‘hers’ vouchers ing two-hour massage at the in the Chateau classy Oasis Spa Dale complex Jomtien. in This really you and your is a chance for style and be partner to relax in pampered. The King and Queen of Oasis massages combine Thai massage aromatherapy with are unofficia techniques and lly labelled management” “stressThai style. The value of each of the prizes is three a little over per couple. Bt9,000 The priced at Bt3,900 treatments are each but when you add the ++ it works just more than Bt4,500. out at
N G PAT TAYA
in Pattaya No
It’s party time on the beach with M&S
ONE
1 • 15 Decem
ber 2014
MADE plans yet for how celebrate you are Christmas going to and the New here’s an extra date to put into Year? Well, December 27 your Mike’s Shopp on the beach in Pattay diary – ing a
opposite Mall. That Saturda y evening of internat ional deejay there will be an amazin with energy talent assemb g array left to spare led to help to rock the Sundance those is beach.
part of Pattaya seven nights Countdown of celebrat 2015, a series ions to be held on of the beach leading up to a spectacular year’s eve new display featurin 20,000 firework g s.
The event this publicati is sponsored by on in associati with the on Movers & networking Shakers group who much good do so work to charities in support Pattaya and Bangkok.
Trial
I did a ‘trial run’ and the King massage which had thoroughly recommend, I can Dave Buckley. writes So what do you have to win these vouchers do to ? Well, it’s simple, IN recent really. Just years the ask a friend campaign newspaper (or take a to get British selfie) to picture you The Sun to stop featurin ladies on reading this protests which Page 3 has the Pattaya copy of g topless stepped up Sun and send Girl Guides years, in future have been going with even movement it to us. on for 40-plus The pictures issues we the Page getting on We think will feature 3 Ladies such will be the act. judged on it’s In-Xann our own pun) and as Xanny a y-ty (pardon We won’t Disjad (pictured hope that l Please turn combination of the bad the campaig just in case to Page 3 ). just wholesom be showing any topless n the tabloid e, good looking images paper does fails! But, poses. We hope girls in attractiv – give in to the readers e Page 3 to see if we have will approve. Turn to got it right.
This is just In-
Xanny-ty
WATCH THIS
Nelson’s Autoh
aus (Thaila
SPACE FOR UPCOMI
nd) Authorized
BMW Deale
OUT TO LAUNCH
OH NO – newspaper not another in Pattaya! If that is your reaction to seeing Free entran this ce we have some publication Entrance sympath will be free But The Pattaya y. Heineken will be available and Sun is not going to Bt80 a pint. be at publication. just another It should to produce Our aim is and the perfect be a great night a tabloid that will grab way to shake the lethargy the attention off brought on of readers by indulgence and provide for Christma overwelcome a s. monthly Speaking digest of what’s the publisher of Christmas, been happenin s of Pattaya here in Fun g would like City. to wish every Sun Yes, that’s a good one reader and a happy will be monthly. right this prosperous – and We don’t – new know how guys manage This was the year. come out on to year when stability was a weekly basis some restored to and keep it Thailand after months interestin of political Big, big thanks g. fighting. into Let’s hope people at the continues the 2015 in the same website (spot Pattaya One vein with more tourists the similarit in the logo?) y is still a fun realising Thailand place to visit. us use some who have let of their stories.
Photo: Fashion TV
The Sun is shining
INCOR
Mid-monthly
NG PRO MOTION
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A BMW IS C THAN YO LOSER U THINK r of BMW Thaila
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Visit us at https ://www.fac ebook.com or call (+66 /NelsonsA ) 038 288 utohaus 858 and ask for our Englis h Representa tive
buri
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Bira International Circuit: is the only internationally certified racetrack in Thailand. Its extensive facilities include a full-service karting track, an off-road test track, and the FIA certified 2.41km racetrack. It can be found about 15 km away on the Pattaya-Rayong Road (Highway 36). Tel: 022 803 547/025 221 731/8 Flight of the Gibbon: this attraction is ranked highly on the Trip Advisor website list of things to do. Cheap it isn’t but most of the reviews rate the experience and commend the safety measures employed. It can be found close to Khao Kheow Zoo. Tel: 0899 70 55 11 or visit website www. treetopasia.com Khao Chi Chan: etched and filled with gold leaf, this Buddha is more than 100 metres high and is thought to be the largest such image in the world. Next to Silver Lakes Vineyard which is also worth a visit. Khao Kheow Open Zoo: 35 km north of Pattaya. A huge zoo with many animals that are on the endangered species list including six rare white tigers exchanged by the Memphis Zoo in the USA. Open daily 08:00-18:00. Tel: 038 298 188. Koh Larn: is reached by ferry from Bali Hai pier or by speedboat. It has several beaches boasting white sand and clear blue water. The many activities include para sailing, snorkeling, jet ski, banana boat, swimming in tropical waters, and there is even a shooting range there. Koh Larn is also suited for bicycling and hiking. www.kohlarn.com Million-Year
Stone
Park
and
Crocodile Farm: lies a 15 minute drive from central Pattaya. It features an exotic zoo, and crocodile, fireswallowing and magic shows, as well as the garden and stone park. Open 8.00-18:30. Tel: 03824 9347-9 or www. thaistonepark.org for information. Mini Siam: is on Sukhumvit Road, surrounded by Soi 33. This model village celebrates the heritage of Thailand with miniature replicas of the most famous monuments and historical sites. Replicas of Tower Bridge, Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty and Trevi Fountain are also displayed. There is a small go-kart track. Open daily from 7.00-22.00. Tel: 038 421 628 for information. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden: 163 Sukhumvit Road (15 minutes east of city towards Bang Saray). Beautiful gardens with waterfalls, “Cultural Extravaganza” performances four times a day. Tourists experience religious ceremonies, martial arts demonstrations, massages and elephant shows. Tel: 03842 9321. Pattaya Dolphin World and Resort: a comparative newcomer to the scene and parts of it were yet to be completed at the beginning of 2013. Recommended for families with young children but don’t expect USA-style shows. Tel: 038 051 790/6. Pattaya Elephant Village: 7km from Central Pattaya on Phonpraphanimit Road. Shows daily at 14.30 and last an hour. A one-hour elephant ride is available from 8.00-17.30 and rafting, trekking (three hours including a meal) is available at 9.00, 10.30, 12.30 and 16.30. Tel: 038 249 818.
Here we list just a few of the things tourists and expats can do to make their time here more enjoyable ...
Pattaya Park and Tower: at Pratumnak features a large whirlpool with giant sliders and a tower with a revolving restaurant. Visitors can also enjoy several games and rides on the tower and in its playground. Open daily from 10.00-19.00 (20.00 on Saturday). Tel: 03836 4110-20 or 02579 9612-4 or www.pattayapark. com for more information. Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum: on the third floor of Royal Garden Plaza. Access from both Second Road and Beach Road. Open daily 11.0023.00. Tel: 03871 0294/8. Sanctuary of Truth: this wooden giant can be found in North Pattaya. The entrance is at Soi 12, Naklua Road. Every inch of the building is covered with wooden carvings to reflect Ancient Vision of Earth, Ancient Knowledge, and Eastern Philosophy. It is open daily from 9.00-18.00 Admission is 500 baht. 038 225 407/038 367 229 www. sanctuaryoftruth.com Sriracha Tiger Zoo: a zoo with various shows at 341 Moo 3, Nongkham, Sri Racha (30 minutes away). It claims a population of 200 tigers and around 10,000 crocodiles, the largest of such in the world. Tel: 03829 6556. Underwater World: on Sukhumvit Road 200 metres south of Tesco Lotus at Pattaya South has a collection of marine species from the Gulf of Thailand. Walk through the 100-metre long pedestrian tunnel and witness more than 200 species of fish swimming by. Open daily from 9.00-18.00 (last tickets 17.30). Tel: 038 756 879.
THE COOL BAR ON SOI KHAOTALO OPEN DAILY FROM 1pm • For more information call +66 (0)87 747 8555, + 66 (0)89 250 5691 or email info@boozeloungepattaya.com
Bars Bamboo Bar: live music nightly in this busy bar and streetside lounge. Close to Walking Street entrance. Tel: 038 232 315, Fax: 038 232 315, email: bamboopattaya@hotmail.com Booze Lounge: situated on the Dark Side in Soi Khao Talo this airconditioned bar combines low prices with good music. Tel: 087 747 8555, email: info@loungebarpattaya.com Caddy Shack: as the name suggests, it’s a haven for golfers. Airconditioned with outdoor terrace and swimming pool and rooms to rent upstairs. 388/385 M10, Soi 17. Tel: 038 300 683, Fax: 038 300 682, email: enquiries@caddyshack-pattaya.com Green Bottle: cosy, well-run pub with a good reputation and central location. 216/3 M10, 2nd Road. Tel: 038 429 870, email: dianagrp@ loxinfo.co.th Jameson’s: Irish pub with strong food offering. Popular with locals and tourists alike. Good place to unwind. 80/164 Moo 9, Soi Sukrudee (Soi AR) right next to Nova Park. Tel: 038 361 873-4 Fax: 038 361 873, email: info@ jamesons-pattaya.com Metro: an air-conditioned sports bar boasting free pool tables and numerous screens on which to watch top sports events. Soi LK Metro, 33/8536, Moo 10 close to Soi Buakhow. Tel: 038 425 874, email: info@metroapartments-pattaya.com Punch & Judy: this is a London-style pub with good food and competitive prices. Frequent promotions. Almost opposite the Caddy Shack in Soi 17. Tel: 038 413255 Shamrock: fun and lively Britishrun ‘family’ bar, an oasis of sanity among the bars of Pattayaland, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 425 417 email: pattayashamrock@yahoo.com Witherspoons: A typical Britishstyle pub with inexpensive meals available while you watch the football on one of its numerous screens. Rooms also available. Soi Buakhow near Soi Diana Inn. Tel: 038 721 121
Need to be fed and watered? You’ll find a warm welcome at any of the following ...
Restaurants Ali Baba: Good quality Indian restaurant with a fine selection of authentic dishes. 1/13-14, Pattaya Central Road close to the beach. Tel: 038 361 620
Mata Hari: close to the Thappraya Road turn-off towards Pratumnak. Specialises in fine European and Thai cuisine at prices less than you might expect. Tel: 038 259 799, email: info@ mataharirestaurant.com
Alt Heidelberg: German sausages and imported sauerkraut dominate the menu, good location. 273 M10, Pattaya Beach Road, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 421 258
PIC Kitchen: classy Thai food in a traditional atmosphere. Soi 5, Pattaya 2 Road. Tel: 038 428 374, 428 387, Fax: 038 422 773, email: picpih@ loxinfo.co.th
Blue Olive: Slightly tucked away off Thepprasit Soi 8 this restaurant it worth digging a little to find. Mediterranean food is the speciality. Chef also produces Mexican food. Tel: 038 416 285, email: blueolivepattay@hotmail.com
Pig and Whistle: British pub grub in ample portions served by well-trained staff. 217/34 Moo 10, Pattaya City. Tel: 038 361 315, Fax: 038 361 272, email: info@pigandwhistlepattaya.com
Bruno’s: Renowned for serving classy reasonably expensive French cuisine, more than 150 wines available. A place to impress. 306/63 Chateau Dale Plaza, Thappraya Road, Pattaya. Tel: 038 364 600-1, Mobile: 081 861 5612, Fax: 038 364 602, email: reservations@brunospattaya.com Cherrys: You get a lot for your money here. European and Thai food. Be careful not to fill up on the salad bar which is free when ordering a main course. Their buffet nights get crowded. In Third Road opposite the former X-Zyte Disco. Tel: 086 3145819 Ciao: Decent pizza and pasta in this established Italian restaurant in Pattaya Klang Road. 038 710 614 Hard Rock Café: International restaurant cum bar with large cocktail menu and mainly American influenced cuisine. DJs spin discs and house band performs cover versions. 429 Moo 9, Pattaya Beach Road. Tel: 038 428 755, Fax: 038 421 673. Open: Mon-Sun 11.00 to 02.00 JJ Pizza Bar: authentic pizza cooked in wood fire ovens, reasonably priced. 325/85 M10, Soi Pattaya-land 2, Pattaya Beach Road. 038 424 128 Lobster Pot: huge restaurant serving all seafood, specialising in lobster and tiger prawns. Walking Street opposite Pattaya Soi 14, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 426 083
Queen Victoria Inn: traditional English pub with excellent menu and a good selection of imported beers on tap. 437/137-8 Soi Yodsak (Soi 6), Pattaya. 038 425 418, 362 523, Mobile: 086 060 6210, Fax: 038 424 941, email: mail@ queenvicpattaya.com Rice Mill: Cantonese restaurant offers dim sun and all-you-can-eat buffet on weekends. Royal Garden Plaza, 218 Beach Road, Pattaya. Tel: 038 421 120 Royal Cliff Beach Hotel: huge complex containing 10 restaurants, including the delicious Maharani Indian restaurant. 353 Pratumnak Road. Tel: 038 250 421, Fax: 038 250 511, 250 513, email: info@royalcliff.com Shenanigans: bar and restaurant serving traditional Irish pub-style fayre and drinks with daily food specials. In Jomtien Complex which also has daily promotions such as “Toss the Boss”. If he loses the drinks are on him. Tel: 038 303 490. The Sportsman: traditional pub fayre with Thai food. Top Sunday carvery, extensive wine list and many imported beers. Soi 13, Beach Road. Tel: 038 710 609 Sugar Hut Restaurant: in hotel of the same name, expensive, but worth it. Thai cuisine. 391/18 Moo 10, Thappraya Road. Tel: 038 364 186,251 686, Fax: 038 251 689, email: sugar-hut@cnet.net.th, open: 07.00-24.00
OCEAN LANE VILLAS
For sale Bt14,900,000
This amazing house sits on the largest plot – 120 tw
enjoys a 54sqm L-shaped, wrap-around pool with
– in Ocean Lane Villas which lies close to the sea at
Jacuzzi. The property comprises three bedrooms
Na-Jomtien. The living area is a generous 280sqm.
plus a maid’s room and boasts four bathrooms.
The house is found near the village clubhouse and
Great value at a little under Bt15m.
south beach
Studios from Bt2,170,000
We have a few studios plus a two bed/two bath unit
underground parking among its many sparkling
available in this award-winning modern, chic condo
features. The two-bed apartment has approx 72sqm
development on Pratumnak Hill South Beach is fully
living space and all fitted furniture and airconds are
complete and boasts a rooftop communal pool and
included in the asking price.
BEACH PROPERTIES Co Ltd email: kevin@beachpropertiesthailand.com (Eng) toom@beachpropertiesthailand.com (Thai)
the elegance @ Cosy Beach
from Bt5,439
Projected yearly yield ranges between 7.3% and 8.7% Projected yearly income ranges between Bt413,220 and Bt475,560
l Units guarantee return
speci prom al o 6 uni tion ts on ly Read y to move in
l Ideal location on Cosy Beach l Superior Build Quality
l Limited foreign ownership l Stunning Rooftop Pool
l Double Glazing
l Prices increase soon
l Gymnasium
l Kone Lifts
l 50% mortgage possible
l Underground Parking
l Tennis Courts
We have many properties available to buy – finance can be arranged
email: kevin@beachpropertiesthailand.com sale: 089 098 3733 Kevin
coffee break • robert collins
Coffee break
Did you know... If the Sun was a ball four inches high between the goalposts at Old Trafford, Earth would be the size of a grain of rice on the penalty spot. Dwarf planet Pluto would be 572 yards away, outside the stadium, and the nearest star, Alpha Centauri, 202 miles away near the Emirates Stadium in London. The nearest galaxy, Sagittarius Dwarf Elliptical Galaxy, would be 30,000 miles away – an eighth of the way to the Moon.
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The greatest Rugby Union players of all time according to the website walesonline.co.uk: 1. Richie McCaw (NZ, 2001-); 2. Dan Carter (NZ, 2003-); 3. Brian O’Driscoll (IRE, 19992014); 4. Jonah Lomu (NZ, 1994-2002);
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number cruncher
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Six of the best
Answers to all the puzzles appear on Page 84 Fill in the missing numbers using 1-9 to complete the equation. Each number is used once. Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.
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4. For what offence did Sophia Loren spend 17 days in prison in 1982?
F I T C V C L U S M H R K W A H I M A Y A J K A C N U P O C V E S P B D M K X Q E E F X O O B X S B R L J F Q N V U K N K Y H N A B A Z I R O E D O C I P I B M M L P O X R R T A A L M H K E R N F A D T E Y S G I C O M Y B C O I G J S U X U M K V A A N Y M S G N T L O A A I U E O U T O V N D A Y N A N N A P U R N A O G I Y N A X J L I R H C L A E A R V W R F A E C W S C J X K W B K Y N H R Y P K D M Q B O E N C B L E O M I W M O N T B L A N C P N M Q U M A E G E O G F D Y U U Z V A P H Y Y L F A Z H W S V I Find these 12 of the world’s highest mountains
Aconcagua Annapurna
Everest Godwin Austen
5. Who is the most senior member of the Royal Family directly descended from King Charles I?
Kilimanjaro Mauna Kea McKinley Mont Blanc
6. King Michael abdicated which throne in 1947?
Nanga Parbat
Pico de Orizaba
Puncak Jaya Vinson Massif
6
coffee break • answers
Sun FGET SET 0
B2
Ring: 087 988 0799 to find out more
Mid-monthly
OR SUNDANCAE!
P O R AT I
digest of news
Chance to win a quality two hour massage
AS part of our we’ve decided launch campaign pairs of ‘his’ to give away three and ‘hers’ vouchers for an invigorating two-hour massage at the in the Chateau classy Oasis Spa Dale complex Jomtien. in
N G PAT TAYA
in Pattaya No
It’s party time on the beach with M&S
ONE
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MADE plans yet for how celebrate you are Christmas going to and the New here’s an extra date to put into Year? Well, December 27 your Mike’s Shoppinon the beach in Pattaya diary –
opposite That Saturday g Mall. evening there of internatio will be an nal deejay amazing array with energy talent assembled left
This really you and your is a chance for style and be partner to relax in pampered. The King and Queen of Oasis massages combine Thai massage aromatherap with y are unofficially techniques and labelled “stressmanagemen
to spare to to help those Sundance is part of Pattayarock the beach. seven nights Countdow of celebration n 2015, a be held on s to series of the beach leading up to a spectacula r new year’s eve display 20,000 fireworks. featuring
OUT TO LAUNCH
t” Thai style. The value of each of the prizes is three a little over per couple. Bt9,000 The priced at Bt3,900 treatments are each but when you add the ++ it works just more than Bt4,500. out at
Trial
I did a ‘trial run’ and the King massage which had thoroughly recommend I can Dave Buckley. , writes So what do you have to win these vouchers? do to Well, it’s simple, IN recent really. Just years the ask a friend campaign newspaper (or take a to get British selfie) to picture you The Sun to stop featuring ladies on reading this protests which Page 3 has the Pattaya copy of topless stepped up Sun and Girl Guides years, in future have been going with even movement on for The pictures send it to us. issues we the Page getting We think will feature 40-plus 3 Ladies such will be judged on it’s In-Xanny-t on the act. our own pun) and as Xanny a y (pardon We won’t Disjad (pictured). hope that l Please turn combination of the bad the campaign just in case to Page 3 just wholesomebe showing any topless the tabloid images , good looking paper does fails! But, poses. We hope girls in attractive– give in to the readers Page 3 to see if we have will approve. Turn to got it right.
This is just In-
Xanny-ty
WATCH THIS
Nelson’s Autoha us
The event this publicationis sponsored by in association with the Movers & networking Shakers group who OH NO much good do so – work to newspaper not another charities in support in Pattaya! Pattaya and Bangkok. If that is your reaction to seeing Free entrance this we have some publication Entrance sympathy. will be free But The Pattaya Heineken will be available and Sun is not going to Bt80 a pint. be just another at publication . It should to produce Our aim is and the perfect be a great night a tabloid that will grab way to shake the lethargy the attention off brought on of readers by indulgence and provide for Christmas. overwelcome a monthly Speaking digest of what’s the publishers of Christmas, been happening here in Fun of Pattaya would like City. Sun to Yes, that’s a good one wish every reader and a happy will be monthly. right this prosperous – and We don’t – new know how guys manage This was the year. come out on to year when stability was a weekly basis some restored to and keep it Thailand after months interesting. of political Big, big thanks fighting. into the Let’s hope people at continues the 2015 in the same website (spot Pattaya One vein with more tourists the similarity in the logo?) is still a fun realising Thailand place to visit. us use some who have let of their stories.
Photo: Fashion TV
The Sun is shining
PATTAYA
INCOR
SPACE FOR UPCOMING (Thailand) Authoriz PROMOTIO ed BMW Dealer
NS FROM
A BMW IS CLOSER THAN YO U THINK of BMW Thailand
for Pattaya
and Chonbu
ri
Visit us at https:// www.facebook or call (+66) .com/NelsonsA 038 288 858 utohaus and ask for our English Representative
Coffee break answers
cryptogram
two-minute trivia
1 Joe Bugner and Richard Dunn; 2 California; 3 Maud Adams; 4 Tax evasion; 5 Prince William (through Princess Diana); 6 Romania. NUMBER CRUNCHER AND SUDOKU 9
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‘A politician is a statesman who approaches every question with an open mouth.’
– Adlai Stevenson
wordsearch
F I S S A M N O S N I V Y L N Z
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quiz • answers
2. Arthur Miller. His five-year marriage to Marilyn Monroe ended in divorce 19 months before the actress’s death from a possible drug overdose in 1962. 3. Arthur Lowe. Captain Mainwaring of Dad’s Army had a clause written into his contract specifying that he would never have to lose his trousers. 4. Paul Neal ‘Red’ Adair, who in 1977 contributed to the capping of the biggest oil well blowout ever to have occurred in the North Sea at the Ekofisk Bravo platform. 5. Dennis Price, who was declared bankrupt in 1967. He attributed his financial distress to “extravagant living and most inadequate gambling”. 6. Orson Welles. The star of Citizen Kane, which he co-wrote, produced and directed, was an outsider to
the studio system and directed only 13 full-length films.
Peggy Mount, who often played battleaxes in TV sitcoms, but her real-life personality was anything but that.
7. John Profumo, whose affair with Christine Keeler was deemed to have implications for national security at the time.
Orson Welles, whose movie Citizen Kane is often cited as the best film ever made.
8. Frank Sinatra. Born in Hoboken, New Jersey, Ol’ Blue Eyes was expelled from high school after only 47 days and was arrested in 1938 for adultery and seduction, then a criminal offence in the USA.
Frank Sinatra, whose flagging career was resuscitated when he won an Academy Award for his role in From Here To Eternity.
9. Sir Norman Wisdom, who gained celebrity status in South America, Iran and many Eastern Bloc countries, particularly in Albania where his films were the only ones by Western actors permitted to be shown by dictator Enver Hoxha.
Ingrid Bergman, ranked the fourth greatest movie actress of all time by the American Film Institute. Arthur Lowe, who was catapulted to fame by Coronation Street. Sir Norman Wisdom, said to be Charlie Chaplin’s ‘favourite clown’.
10. Moshe Dayan, who became famous for wearing a black eyepatch after he lost his left eye in 1941 during military action in Lebanon. 11. Les Paul’s first solid-body electric guitar was built after-hours in the Epiphone guitar factory in 1940 from a chunk of pine with strings and a pickup.
loss and sorrow included La Vie en Rose (1946), Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien (1960), Hymne à l’Amour (1949) and Milord (1959) 15. Ewan MacColl, the one-time husband of Joan Littlewood, whose MI5 file was opened after local police asserted that he was “a communist with very extreme views” who needed “special attention”. 16. Billie Holiday. At the age of 14, Holiday, along with her mother, was sent to prison for prostitution before starting her singing career shortly after in Harlem nightclubs. 17. Ann Sheridan, a popular pin-up girl in the early 1940s, was tagged the Oomph Girl and reportedly received as many as 250 marriage proposals from fans in a single week. 18. Lorne Greene, who started as the principal newsreader on the CBC National News, where he was given the nickname The Voice of Canada.
12. Peggy Mount, the Essex-born actress whose real personality was far removed from that of her TV sitcom characters. 13. Augusto Pinochet, who seized power with the help of the USA, was dictator of Chile between 1973 and 1990. 14. Édith Piaf, whose songs of love,
87 REM 01/2015
1. Ingrid Bergman. The star of Casablanca and mother of actress Isabella Rossellini died in London in 1982.
UNMASK THE TRUTH feeling insecure? contact us Eng: 0854 356 111 Thai: 080 6021 390 Office: 038 115 704 www.thailand-security.com
88 REM 01/2015
Email: joe@thailand-security.com burglar alarms | cctv | commercial & residential full alarm monitor response services | fire prevention equipment
Address: 399/4 M6 Soi Siam Country Club, Pattaya, Chonburi 20260
broker & developer directory
Last year was a great one for Bravo Thai, the developers of The Vineyard trio of projects. See full story on pages 12-13.
Your at-a-glance guide to some of the major players in the Pattaya property market. We do not claim this is a comprehensive list of all the brokers and developers who can provide a service but we hope readers will find it helpful.
Sponsorship of this directory is now available. If interested to know more please contact Dave on
087 988 0799
agents agents •• directory directory
ACI Enterprise Co Ltd (incorporating ACI Ocean Properties) 672/20 M5 Soi 18, Naklua Road next to Northpoint, Wong-Amat T: +66 (0)38 41 6060 F: +66 (0)38 41 6061 M: +66 (0)81 762 2627 E: info@aci-enterprise.com W: aci-enterprise.com and pattayaoceanproperties.com Principal: Markus Probst Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR, CIPS Alan Bolton Property Consultants Unit C102, 399/9 M10 The Avenue Shopping Mall Second Road near Villa Market T: +66 (0)38 416 728-9 F: +66 (0)38 416 730 M: +66 (0)81 996 2489 E: info@pattaya-property.net W: pattaya-property.net Principal: Alan Bolton Memberships: REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), TREBS All Siam Properties M: +66 (0)87 068 5159 E: info@allsiamproperties.com W: allsiamproperties.com Membership: TREA Anaakot Group Property Consultants 138/1 Moo 12, Soi Chaiyapruk, Jomtien T: +66 (0)38 231544 M: +66 (0)8780 33329 E: info@anaakot-group.com W: Anaakot-Group.com Principal: Jason Young Arise Asia 415 Pratumnak Hill Soi 6 T: +66 (0)38 075 610 M: +66 (0)85 228 8911 (Thanya) E: info@ariseasia.com W: ariseasia.com Principal: Thanyamai Totharong (Thanya) Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR, CIPS
glossaRY The following are among the trade organisation memberships or qualifications held by some of the agents. Note that, in some instances, the qualification is with the individual employee – not the company overall. AIPP: Acronym stands for The Association of International Property Professionals which is a not-for-profit organisation whose aim is to improve the standards of professionalism in the international property market, helping both the industry and the public. Members have voluntarily signed up to follow the AIPP Code of Conduct. CIPS: Certified International Property Specialist – this is a members-only group which is for international practitioners of the National Association of REALTORS®. CRS: Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) is the top professional designation awarded to REALTORS® in residential sales. Held by fewer than five per cent of all REALTORS®. NAR: National Association of Realtors is North America’s largest trade association representing more than 1.2 million members. Members can call themselves REALTORS®. NAR also functions as a self-regulatory organisation for real estate brokerage. TREBA (Thailand): This is the nationwide Thailand Real Estate Broker Association with affiliation to the international Council of Residential Specialists. REBA-ES: The Real Estate Broker Association for the Eastern Seaboard.
RETS (Thailand): Real Estate Training School (Thailand) – brokers seeking membership of REBA must have staff attend and pass their test.
Benchmark Asia Property Co Ltd Soi Post Office T: +66 (0)38 304 133 M: +66 (0)81 792 9486 E: info@benchmarkthailand.com W: benchmarkthailand.com Principal: Gareth De Silva Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR, CIPS Century 21 – B2 Real Estate 315/2 (Soi Lengkee 1) Moo 9, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 T: +66 (0)38 421 652 M: +66 (0)83 603 7989 E: century21@b2realestate.com W: century21-b2.com Century 21 – Seven Stars 157/523 Pattaya-Naklua Road next to Lumpini Ville Condo project T: +66 (0)38 410 510 E: info@travelnfp.com W: travelnfp.com Principal: Suradej Sroyrungrueng
Coastal Real Estate 216/62 M10, Soi 13 (Soi Diana next to Mega-Break) T: +66 (0)38 421 580, +66 (0)38 412 169 M: +66 (0)81 269 0742 E: info@coastalrealestatepattaya.com W: coastalrealestatepattaya.com Principal: Kevin Mattson
Colliers International Thailand 519/4-5 Second Road, opposite Central Festival, Pattaya Beach T: +66 (0)38 427 771 F: +66 (0)38 427 772 M: +66 (0)85 2828 120 E: info.pattaya@colliers.com or mark.bowling@colliers.com W: colliers.co.th Principal: Mark Bowling Memberships: RICS
REM 01-02/2015 Issues164 164and and165 165 01-02/2015 ••Issues REM
AAAA Properties Jomtien Plaza Condotel 406/37 M12 Jomtien Beach Road T: +66 (0)38 756 370 F: +66 (0)38 757 015 M: +66 (0)86 144 1312 E: info@aaaaproperties.com W: aaaaproperties.com Principal: Louis J Van den Bergh
xxxxxxxx• •directory agents xxwriterxxxxx Compass Real Estate Co Ltd 131/56 Moo 9, Sukhumvit Road, South Pattaya, Chonburi 20150 T: +66 (0)800 958 854 M: +66 (0)901 360 747/+66 (0)80 767 1868 E: office@compasspattaya.com W: compasspattaya.com Principal: Rob Rowcett East Coast Real Estate Co Ltd Office 1: 414/19 M12 Jomtien Complex T: +66 (0)38 267 030-1 F: +66 (0)38 267 029 M: +66 (0)81 862 8034 Office 2: 485/4 M10 Second Road T: +66 (0)38 723 615-6 E: eastcoast@thaiproperty.com W: thaiproperty.com or thaiproperty.net Principal: David Gray
Farang Property Services 223/32 M9, Third Road T: +66 (0)38 052 495 F: +66 (0)38 052 496 M: +66 (0)89 938 7433 E: info@farang-services.com W: farang-services.com Principal: Manfred Ehrenheim Advertisements: Pages 4 and 5
REM 01-02/2015 • Issues 164 and 165
Five Star Villas & Condos 315/5 Moo 9, Soi Leng Kee, Pattaya Third Road M: +66 (0)81 938 8391 Robert or (0)809 16667 Mesiya E: sales@fivestarvillasandcondos.com W: fivestarvillasandcondos.com Principals: Robert and Mesiya (May) Watson Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), CIPS, REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR, TREBS Gecko Properties 420/146 Soi Buakhow Moo 9 (street with Asia Backpackers on corner) T: +66 (0)38 412 150 M: +66 (0)846 564 846 E: info@gecko-properties.com W: gecko-properties.com Principal: Steve Scholey
glossaRY RICS: Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors – an independent body which regulates the conduct of property professionals and surveyors in the UK and other sovereign nations. RICS provides education and training standards, protects consumers with strict codes of practice and advises governments and business. TREA: The Thai Real Estate Association aims to be the hub of the real estate profession here by encouraging entrepreneurs to operate to standards of quality and ethics; to create the maximum benefits for developers, government and consumers altogether. TREBS: The Thailand Real Estate Broker School provides training for real estate professionals. The course includes real estaterelated laws, broker law, broker ethics, listing and sales techniques, reconciliation techniques, property evaluation, property transfer procedure and tax calculation.
Gl bal
Property Pattaya Co., Ltd
Global Property Pattaya Co Ltd 565/56 Moo 10, near Big C South Pattaya T: +66 (0)38 426 231 F: +66 (0)38 426 232 M: +66 (0)81 838 1390 E: info@globalpropertythailand.com W: globalpropertythailand.com or global-property-pattaya.com Principal: Rainer Heinzmann Memberships: REBA-ES, CIPS Golden Homes Real Estate Co Ltd 33/39 M9 Soi Diana Inn T: +66 (0)38 720 892-3 M: +66 (0)86 826 8821 E: info@goldenhomespattaya.com or Ploy1@csloxinfo.com W: goldenhomespattaya.com Principal: Yupaporn Sangpagdee (Ploy)
Homes Direct Asia 99/34 Soi Khao Noi T: +66 (0)38 068 956 F: +66 (0)38 068 957 M: +66 (0)811 429 0111 or 0890 160 077 E: info@homesdirect.asia W: homesdirect.asia Principal: Matt O’Sullivan Jomtien Property 315/185-6 Thappraya Road near entrance to View Talay 2 T: +66 (0)38 303 243 M: +66 (0)86 108 6575 E: info@properties-in-thailand.com W: properties-in-thailand.com Principal: Stu Sutton
JLL (formerly Jones Lang LaSalle) The Village Shopping Centre, Sukhumvit-Pattaya Road Services: Property sales and leasing; property management; consultancy; project management; and valuation T: +66 (0)38 074 663-5 E: info.thailand@ap.jll.com W: joneslanglasalle.co.th W: jllresidential.in.th Principal: Adam Bell Jump Real Estate 315/154 Thappraya Road T: +66 (0)38 251 859 M: +66 (0)879 015 229 E: garry@jump-realestate-pattaya.com W: jump-realestate-pattaya.com Principal: Garry Angerstein Knight Frank The Village Shopping Centre where the Sukhumvit meets Soi Chaiyapruk M: +66 (0)81 550 4099 E: anchalee.kasemsukthawat@ th.knightfrank.com W: knightfrank.co.th North Shore Property Co Ltd 315/414 M12 Thappraya Road T: +66 (0)38 303 825-6 M: +66 (0)87 833 5066 or (0)86 323 4607 E: info@ns-property.com W: ns-property.com Principal: Mesa Wongsida
agents • directory Siam Properties
Contact 313/27 M10 Pattaya Tai
Eng: 089 833 6175 +66465 (0)38 415 490 Thai: T: 090 4563
www.pattayarealty.com F: +66 (0)38 414 693
M: +66 (0)81 861 1907 (Heiner) or Pattaya Realty (0)81 821 7045 (Porn) 420/185 Moo 9 Soi Buakhow 15 Russian: +66 (0)89 245 2890 (Vera) T: +66 (0)38 412 301-2 E: info@siamproperties.net or M: +66 (0)89 833 6175 or (0)90 465 4563 rus@siamproperties.net One Stop Real Estate E: info@pattayarealty.com W: siamproperties.net 219/14 M9, Soi Yamato W: pattayarealty.com Sale ß18,000,000 HS9736 HS6871 HS8611 Sale ß24,950,000 Sale ß9,000,000 Siam Royal View House 4 beds (private pool) Mabprachan Villa) House 4 beds Principals: Heiner and Porn Moessing T: +66 (0)38 710 699 orHouse (0)384 beds 710 725 (Jomtien ParkPrincipal: Stuart Daly Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), M: +66 (0)819 454 845 Memberships: CIPS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR, CIPS E: onestop@realesthai.com REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR W: real-estate-thailand.com Advertisements: Pages 14 and 15 Talay Real Estate Co Ltd Principal: Mark Welch 240/18 M5, Naklua not far from Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), Powerhouse Properties Co Ltd ß 35,000/month CR10009 Rent ß 30,000/month Rent ß60,000/month Rent CR7760 on Second Road Dolphin Roundabout REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR, CIPS View Talay Residence 4 CR5893 Pratumnak Central Pattaya Condo 1 bed Condo 2 beds Condo 3 beds 3 baths Central Pattaya T: +66 (0)38 362 352 489/2 Jomtien Soi 5, Pattaya, 20150 F: +66 (0)38 362 351 Pattaya Bay Real Estate T: +66 (0)38 059 635 M: +66 (0)87 608 1116 or (0)8 0091 5353 338/24 Moo 12 Pratumnak Road M: +66 (0)81 945 8002, +66(0)90 398 E: info@talayrealestate.com T: + 66 (0)38 250 944 6643 W: talayrealestate.com M: + 66 (0)811 580 065 (English) E: info@powerhousepropertiesltd.com Principals: Namthip Khanjanavisittaphol + 66 (0)861 566 346 (Thai) W: powerhousepropertiesltd.com HS9957 Sale ß6,500,000 Sale ß22,000,000 Sale ß78,000,000 HS9060 CS8856 (Sandy) T Okuno E: info@pattayabayrealestate.com Principal: J. Bernard Pratumnak House 3 beds (private pool) East Pattaya Naklua House 5 beds (privateand pool) Ted Condo 2 beds (sea view) W: pattayabayrealestate.com Memberships: REBA-ES, REBA Thailand-Property-Gate Principal: Mal Patterson (Thailand), RETS (Thailand), CIPS, NAR, (We Can Do It Co Ltd) CRS, RESMA 50/2 Moo 6, Huay Yai Pattaya Jomtien Property M: +66 (0)81 835 9923 75/49 Soi 5 Immigration, Beach Road, Premier Homes Real Estate Co Ltd W: thailand-property-gate.com Jomtien (75m from Immigration Office) 240/21 Jomtien Beach Road 120,000/month CR7116 CR10007 Rent ß Rent ß50,000/month Rent ß50,000/month CR10010 House 4 beds (private pool) Mabprachun Condo231 1 bed (sea view) Wong Amat Principal: Stefan Matter T: +66 (0)90 132 1891 House 3 beds (private pool) East Pattaya T: +66 (0)38 931 M: +66 (0)85 129 5657 (Thai); M: +66 (0)81 634 2915 Thailiving or +66 (0)85 056 9880 (English) E: premier@loxinfo.co.th 306/90-91 M12 Thappraya Road E: sales@pattaya-jomtien-property.com W: premierinternational.com T: +66 (0)38 364 514 W: pattaya-jomtien-property.com Principals: Clayton and Supap Wade M: +66 (0)81 862 7405 Principals: Kevin and Chanram Hurst Memberships: CIPS, RETS (Thailand), NAR E: info@thailiving.net W: thailiving.net Pattaya Paradise City Property Rightmove Pattaya GPS:Location 12.928045,100.883015 Principal: Supaporn Persson (Sara) 99/684-685, Moo 5, Chok Chai Village 8, 369/1 M9, Units 8&9 PS Bowl, 2nd Road nd Our of�ice address 420/185T:Moo.9 Pattaya Soi Watboonsampan +66 (0)38 361 2212Road 15, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 info@pattayarealty.com T: +66 (0)38 376 145Tel: 038 412301/038 412302M:Email: +66 (0)89 253 5607 Fax: +66 (0) 38 376 147 E: info@rightmovepattaya.com M: +66 (0)81 761 3238 W: rightmovepattaya.com E: pattaya@paradisecityproperty.com Principal: Craig Turner Town & Country Property W: pattaya-property.biz Memberships: REBA (Thailand), 63/10-11 Pattaya Tai Principal: Gavin Perfect REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), CIPS T: +66 (0)38 374 136 F: +66 (0)38 374 137 Pattaya Prestige Properties Seaboard Properties Co Ltd Russian: +66 (0)84 873 7425 2/28 Ground Floor, View Talay 7 316/23 Thappraya Road near Food E: info@towncountryproperty.com F: +66 (0)38 059 632 Mart, Jomtien W: towncountryproperty.com M: +66 (0)870 217 014 T: +66 (0)38 252 456 Principal: Cees Cuijpers E: info@pattayaprestigeproperties.com F: +66 (0)38 252 457 Memberships: CRS, REBA-ES, NAR, CIPS W: pattayaprestigeproperties.com M: +66 (0)86 129 8281 Advertisements: Pages 8 and 9 Principal: Jan Nuyten E: info@seaboard-properties.com W: seaboard-properties.com Principal: Eddie Buehler
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REM 01-02/2015 • Issues 164 and 165
NT Realty Asia 215/15-18 Second Road T: +66 (0)38 426 242 or (0)38 425 836 E: info@nt-realty.com W: realestatethailand.com Principal: Richard Arthur Memberships: RETS (Thailand), NAR, CIPS
REAL ESTATE BROKER ASSOCIATION – EASTERN SEABOARD
ticks all Members of REBA-ES are respected
Member companies in REBA-ES are part of an established and respected real estate organisation which has the support of the Thai Government
professional
Clients of REBA-ES members can be confident that they are dealing with honest, reputable and properly trained real estate professionals
ETHICAL
The high standards we set conform to internationallyapproved rules, regulations, strict codes of ethics and dispute resolution policies
INFORMed
Our members network closely, giving all of them access to the Eastern Seaboard’s largest real estate association
For comprehensive property listings and professional real estate consulting contact our members at www.rebaes.com
REAL ESTATE BROKER ASSOCIATION – EASTERN SEABOARD
the boxes ... Sponsoring REBA-ES members Contact
Eng: 089 833 6175 Thai: 090 465 4563
www.pattayarealty.com
Mark Welch +66 (0)81 945 4845 info@1stop-pattaya.com www.real-estate-thailand.com
Stuart Daly +66 (0)38 412 301-2 info@pattayarealty.com www.pattayarealty.com
Markus Probst +66 (0)81 762 2627 info@aci-enterprise.com www.pattayaoceanproperties.com
... if your answer is ‘yes’ to all, check out the REBASale ß18,000,000 House 4 beds
Sale ß24,950,000
HS9736
(Jomtien Park Villa)
House 4 beds
HS6871
Siam Royal View
Sale
ß9,000,000
HS8611
House 4 beds (private pool) Mabprachan
Heiner Moessing Rob Watson Gareth De Silva +66 (0)89 499 1000 +66 (0)81 938 8391 +66 (0)81 792 9486 info@siamproperties.net sales@fivestarvillasandcondos.com info@benchmarkthailand.com CR10009 Rent ß35,000/month Rent ß60,000/month Rent ß30,000/month CR7760 CR5893 www.siamproperties.net www.fivestarvillasandcondos.com www.benchmarkthailand.com Pratumnak Central Pattaya Condo 1 bed Condo 2 beds Condo 3 beds 3 baths Central Pattaya
Gl bal Property Pattaya Co., Ltd
Rainer Heinzmann Sale ß6,500,000 3 beds (private pool) +66 (0)81 838 House 1390 info@globalpropertythailand.com www.globalpropertythailand.com
HS9957 East Pattaya
Craig TurnerCS8856 Sale ß22,000,000
Condo 2 beds (sea view)
Naklua
Sale
+66 (0)89 253 5607 info@rightmovepattaya.com www.rightmovepattaya.com
HS9060 June Bernard +66(0)38 059 635 info@powerhousepropertiesltd.com www.powerhousepropertiesltd.com
ß78,000,000
House 5 beds (private pool) Pratumnak
You can trust Rent
ß50,000/month
House 3 beds (private pool)
CR10010
East Pattaya
Rent
ß50,000/month
Condo 1 bed (sea view)
CR10007 Wong Amat
Rent
ß120,000/month
CR7116
House 4 beds (private pool) Mabprachun
GPS:Location 12.928045,100.883015 Our of�ice address 420/185 Moo.9 Pattaya 2nd Road 15, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel: 038 412301/038 412302 Email: info@pattayarealty.com
Advert: Zen Grafix
www.rebaes.com
agents • •directory xxxxxxxx developers xxwriterxxxxx • directory Anaakot Group Development 138/1 Moo 12, Soi Chaiyapruk, Jomtien Project: Sixtythree@12 T: +66 (0)38 231544 M: +66 (0)8780 33329 E: info@anaakot-group.com W: Anaakot-Group.com Contact: Jason Young Blue Sky Developments Co Ltd 933 Ruamtanuthai Building, 11th floor, Mahachai Road, Wangburapapirom, Phranakorn, Bangkok T: +66(0)81 8180874 E: pornthepchawla@gmail.com W: blueskydevelopments.co.th Principal: Pornthep Chawla (Dev) Boutique Corporation 170/67 21st floor, Ocean Tower 1, Soi Sukhumvit 16, Ratchadaphisek Road, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 T: +66 (0)86 378 7777 E: pattama@boutiquecorporation.com W: boutiquecorporation.com Principal: Pattama Piyamaneeporn Bravo Thai Lifestyle Co Ltd Projects: The Vineyard I, II & III and Amaya Hill near Lake Mabprachan M: +66 (0)89 8677 969 E: terry@siamdevelopments.com W: siamdevelopments.com Principal contact: Terrence Allen Collins
REM 01-02/2015 • Issues 164 and 165
CSP Projects Chaiyapruk 2 over rail track on left opposite The Ville Projects: Coconut Grove, Coco Palms and Palm Grove T: +66 (0)38 076 285-6 E: md@csp-construction.com W: csp-construction.com Principal contact: Tom Coglan CW Asset Co Ltd 212/13 North Pattaya Road Project: Bang Saray Beach Condominium T: +66 (0)38 414 405 M: +66 (0)85 272 8338 (English) or +66 (0)85 272 8228 (Thai) E: info@cwasset.com W: cwasset.com or bangsaraybeachcondo.com Principal: Ms Imorn Luekhamharn Membership: TREA
Domum Holding Co Ltd 391/109 Thappraya Road. Corner of Soi 13, next to Mata Hari Restaurant Project: Meridiem Condominium and Meridiem Park Condominium T: +66 (0) 38 251 464 M: +66 (0) 8888 10311 F: +66 (0) 38 251 733 E: info@domum-holding.com W: domum-holding.com
Major Development PCL 141 Soi Thonglor 10, Sukhumvit 55, Klongton Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Local project: Reflection Jomtien Beach Sales office: Jomtien Beach Road, adjacent to Suttangrak Restaurant T: +66 (0)38 233 111 M: +66 (0)89 247 7158 E: sales@reflectionpattaya.com W: majordevelopment.co.th
Global Tower Group Co Ltd Banglamung Soi 16 Project: Paradise Ocean View M: +66 (0)8 222 66 077 E: info@paradiseoceanview.com W: paradiseoceanview.com
Matrix Developments 352/202-3 M12 Pratumnak Road Current projects: Art-on-the-Hill, Paradise Park, Sunset Boulevard, The View, The Vision, Amazon Residence, City Center Residence and The Orient T: +66 (0)38 250 120-1 F: +66 (0)38 250 008 M: +66 (0)87 607 8880 E: info@matrix-developments.com W: matrix-developments.com Membership: AIPP
Golden View Development Co Ltd Showroom in Third Road close to the start of the Bali Hai fly-over Projects: Masters Residence and Imperial Twins Residence T: 038 410 786 M: +66 (0)90 125 8969 E: info@goldenview.asia W: goldenview.asia Principals: Mark Membership: AIPP Habitat 5 Co Ltd Sales Office: 172 Soi Chaiyapruk 2 Project: The Ville Jomtien M: +66 (0)81 450 0001/2 E: chane@habitat-5.com W: TheVillePattaya.com Heights Holdings Co Ltd Thappraya Road next to Bruno’s Italian Restaurant Projects: Park Royal I, II & III, Pattaya Heights, Club Royal, Laguna Bay I , II and III (The Maldives), Laguna Beach Resort Jomtien I & II, Laguna Heights, The Peak Towers, Wong Amat Tower, Water Park Condominium, C-View and Arcadia Beach Resorts I-IV (Pattaya, Naklua and Jomtien x 2) M: +66 (0)85 282 6454 E: oliver@heights-holdings.com W: heights-holdings.com Principal contact: Oliver Nabarro
Modus Group 292/1-2 Moo 5 Soi 12, Pattaya-Naklua, Naklua, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Project: Modus Beachfront Condo T: +66 (0)38 225 999 or (0)38 252 635 M: +66 (0)89-092 1333 E: info@moduspattaya.com or 888modus@gmail.com W: moduspattaya.com Principal: Pimpinan Namthep New Nordic Occupies a large area of Pratumnak. Soi 4 and look for the orange signs Current projects: New Nordic Suites, New Nordic VIP Condominium I, II and III and IV are planned T: +66 (0)38 250 025 M: +66 (0)89 605 4114 E: sales@new-nordic.com W: new-nordic.com Norwegian Properties Group 315/175-180 Moo 12, Nongprue Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Project: VN Residences 3 T: +66 (0)38 303 310 F: +66 (0)38 252 548 M: +66 (0)89 936 6741 (Eng) or +66 (0)89 834 7664 (Eng and Rus) E: jeanette@vnresidences.com or liene@vnresidences.com W: vnresidences.com Principal contact: Jeanette Eiksund Heltne
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agents • directory
Where you can get a copy of REm
Robin’s Nest 33/42-44 Moo 10 Soi Diana Inn T: +66 (0)38 720 194 or +66 (0)89 928 7080 W: robinsnestpattaya.com
Mantra Restaurant & Bar Pattaya Beach, Pattaya T: +66 (0) 3842 9591 E: email@mantra-pattaya.com W: mantra-pattaya.com
Starbucks Coffee Company Lido Pattaya Royal Garden Pattaya Stylo Pattaya Beach Road Tuk Com South Pattaya Central Festival T: 038 710 087 E: customercomment@ starbucks-thailand.com W: starbucks.co.th
Sportsman Pub & Restaurant Soi 13, Pattaya Beach Road T: +66 (0)38 710 609 or +66 (0)86 834 3729 W: sportsmanpub.com
Coco’s Bistro Soi Chaiyapruk, Jomtien T: 038 074 675 E: madeup@cocospattaya.com W: cocospattaya.com
Holiday Inn Pattaya 463/68 Pattaya Sai 1 Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi T: +66 (0)3872 5555 W: holidayinn.com/pattaya
The Village Shopping Centre Junction Soi Chaiyapruk and Sukhumvit Road T: 038 074 647-8 W: thevillagepattaya.com
Shenanigans Irish Pub Jomtien Complex Condo Thappraya Road, Jomtien T: 038 303 490 E: info@ shenanigansthailand.com W: shenanigansthailand.com
Bangkok Hospital Pattaya Highway 3, Naklua T: 038 259 999 Emergency: 1719 E: inquiry@bph.co.th W: bangkokpattayahospital.com
Tequila Reef Cantina Soi 7, Pattaya Tel: (038) 414-035 E: info@tequilareefpattaya.com W: tequilareefpattaya.com
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REM 01-02/2015 • Issues 164 and 165 REM 01-02/2015 • Issues 164 and 165
Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa Beach Road, Pattaya T: 038 412 120 E: pattayamarriott@minornet.com W: marriott.com/PYXMC
agents • •directory xxxxxxxx developers xxwriterxxxxx • directory Nova Group Nova Park, 80/164 M9, Soi Sukrudee (Soi AR) near Jameson’s Pub Projects: Amari Residences Pattaya, The Cliff, Nova Ocean View, Novana Residence, The Palm, Nam Talay, Serenity Wongamat, North Beach, Pacific Bay and The Orient T: +66 (0)38 415 304-8 F: +66 (0)38 415 309 M: +66 (0)85 282 6454 E: info@nova-thailand.com W: nova-thailand.com Principal contacts: Rony Fineman and Keith Storey Petch Property Development Co Ltd Projects: The Cove and Prima Residence Main office: 44 Soi Sukhumvit 59, Klongton Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 T: +66 (0)27 143 872 M: +66 (0)89 991 1999 Sales office: 193/1 M5 Naklua Road T: +66 (0)38 428 284 or (0)38 428 595 E: info@ppd.co.th W: ppd.co.th Principal: Itthi Chavalittamrong Poompatta Co Ltd 450 M9 Nongprue, Chonburi 20150 Projects: Patta Village and Patta Town T&F: +66 (0)38 371 555 E: info@poompattapattaya.com W: poompattapattaya.com
REM 01-02/2015 • Issues 164 and 165
Powerhouse Properties Co Ltd View Talay Residence 4 489/2 Jomtien Soi 5, Pattaya, 20150 T: +66 (0)38 059 635 M: +66 (0)81 945 8002, +66(0)90 398 6643 E: info@powerhousedev.com W: powerhousedev.com watersedge-pattaya.com skylightjomthien.com habitusjomthien.com Principal: J. Bernard Memberships: REBA-ES, REBA (Thailand), RETS (Thailand), CIPS, NAR, CRS, RESMA Raimon Land PLC 22nd Floor The Millenia Tower, Bangkok Projects: Northpoint, Zire Wong Amat and Unixx South Pattaya T: +66 (0)26 519 601 M: +66 (0)81 3717 888 E: info@raimonland.com W: raimonland.com
Tulip Group Co Ltd 88/58 Moo 4, Bowin Sub District, Siracha, Chonburi Projects: Centara Avenue Residence & Suites Pattaya and Golden Tulip Hotel & Residence (both behind The Avenue), Centara Grand Residence Pattaya (Na-Jomtien), Waterfront Suites & Residences (Bali Hai), Royal Tulip Suites T: +66 (0)38 959 180 F: +66 (0)38 959 508 M: +66 (0)83 718 0005 E: jason@tulipgroup.co.th W: tulipgroup.co.th Principal contacts: Kobi Elbaz and Jason Payne Shining Light Co Ltd Project: City Garden Pattaya Soi 15, Second Road close to The Avenue T: +66 (0)38 416 690 F: +66 (0)38 724 249 E: info@citygardenpattaya.com W: citygardenpattaya.com (The) Siam Oriental Trading Co Ltd 267/4 M12, Pratumnak Projects: Siam Oriental Condominium, Siam Oriental Garden, Siam Oriental Twins, Siam Oriental Elegance, Tropical Garden, Siam Oriental Plaza, Green Cascades T: +66 (0)81 305 3071 or 085 085 8284 E: siamoriental@mail.ru W: siamoriental.net Principal contact: Anastassiya Konchaphat Town & Country Property 63/10-11 Pattaya Tai Projects: The Meadows, The Residence and Whispering Palms F: +66 (0)38 374 137 Russian: +66 (0)84 873 7425 E: info@towncountryproperty.com W: towncountryproperty.com Principal: Cees Cuijpers
Universal Group Thailand 324/90 Moo 12, Thappraya Road Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Projects: Seven Seas and Savanna Sands T: +66 (0)38 074 625 E: universalplus@ymail.com W: universal-thailand.com Principal: Sonia Punjabi (The) Urban Co Ltd Projects: Acqua Condominium, The Gallery, SP Townhomes, The Urban, The Urban Suites, and Aeras T & F: +66 (0)38 231125-6 M: +66 (0)86 323 1908 E: theurbanproperty@gmail.com W: thegallerycondo.com, theurban pattaya.com, theurban-property.com VKK Real Estate Co Ltd Sukhumvit 87 just before the rail track and the new road Projects: Porchland I, II, III (The Blue Residence), IV (The Time), V (La Santir), VI (The Feelture), VII (Del Mare) T: +66 (0)38 757 375-7 M: +66 (0)82 444 1147-8 E: theblue@porchland.com W: porchland.com
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