Nov /Dec 2015

Golf, Grilling and Greenswards

It’s onwards and upwards for Frisbee Golf Samui as disc golf gets increasingly popular.

Gone Fishing

From time immemorial Samui people have set out to sea to fish.

Now you can join them.

A Warm Welcome

Editor

Graeme Malley graeme@siammap.com

Graphic Designer Jit-anong Sae-ung - Zign

Photographer

Akaphon Phongninlaarphon - Don

Feature Writer Rob De Wet

Feature Writer Dimitri Waring

Feature Writer Natalie Hughes

Webmaster

Seksak Kerdkanno - Klauy

Sales & Marketing Director Nipawan Chuaysagul - Ning 0 898 783 891

ning@siammap.com

Financial Director Kasper Bjørk kasper@siammap.com

Managing Director Henrik Bjørk henrik@siammap.com

Siam Map Company Ltd. 52/6 Samui Ring Road, Moo 3 Bo Phut, Koh Samui, 84320, Thailand Tel: 0 7742 2201 Fax: 0 7741 3523 E-mail: info@siammap.com www.siammap.com

Samui is an amazing place. From beautiful beaches backed by palm trees, to an emerald jungle interior, this is a tropical island that is blessed with a great deal of natural beauty. It’s a very laid-back place and is great to visit when it starts getting cold in Europe and the year winds down. Many people come to indulge in some much-needed relaxation and to enjoy the Christmas and New Year parties in December.

There’s plenty to see and do, and easily enough to fill a few weeks of holidaymaking. But not so long ago, Samui didn’t have a very finished feel to it, and visitors here, though they might fall in love with the island, still had hankerings for the world outside. However now it has just about every amenity you’ll find back home. You’ll be taking in not just great views but also seriously professional restaurants and great shopping opportunities.

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Reproduction or use of editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited without written permision from Siam Map Company Ltd. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this publication, Siam Map Company Ltd. assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein.

Siam Map Company Ltd. 2015

Samui has so much to offer its holidaymakers that it’s not surprising so many people make a beeline for it year after year.

Distribution at Bangkok Airport courtesy of Bangkok Airways.

Reservation Center: 1771 Samui Chaweng Office: 0 7760 1300 www.bangkokair.com

Please recycle or pass on to a friend.

The magic is real, naturally.

forest spa rock pools....herbal steam cave....superb massage 077 424 221, 080 569 6654, 084 4694042 www.tamarindsprings.com Koh Samui Thailand 

THAILAND TOURISM AWARD 2008 “AWARD OF OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE” HEALTH TOURISM - DAY SPA.

Mediterranean Cuisine Amidst a panoramic dreamscape that overlooks the pristine Crystal Bay, The Cliff warmly invites you to a truly unforgettable dining experience on Samui.

Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 2014 & 2015 2014

2015

HAPA 2011 - 2013 Most Exquisite Dining Experience Most Trendy Casual Dining Restaurant Of The Year

2005

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2009

2011

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2015

"Thailand's Best Restaurants" 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2014 & 2015

Reservations Essential

CONTENTS 78

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22 Quicker Than the Blink of an Eye

Photographer Claudio Cerquetti captures the beauty of Samui, frame by frame.

32 Stress Free and Surprising.

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Spoiled for Choice

Nature Art has thousands of semi-precious stones, and a treasure trove of jewellery on offer.

When it comes to massage, Eranda Herbal Spa offers brilliant treatments with a setting to match.

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38 A Planeload of Pills

A look at some common holiday ailments in Thailand – how to spot them and what to do.

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Chandra’s beautiful fashions are inspired by two designers’ journeys round Asia and beyond.

88 A Pitch for Health Samui United Football Academy provides a place for children and youngsters to learn football skills and a lot more.

It’s onwards and upwards for Frisbee Golf Samui as disc golf gets increasingly popular.

56 Double The Joy

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Sublime Psylo Psylo’s two stores in Chaweng showcase clothing that’s unique, urban and far from mainstream.

Central Festival Special Chaweng’s Central Festival shopping centre is not only tip-top, but it’s low-key too!

50 Golf, Grilling and Greenswards

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Educating the Mind, Nurturing the Soul SCL International School has overcome major challenges to offer its children a better education.

44 Asian Appeal

The Cliff not only boasts a wonderful location, but also has two top international chefs working for your dining pleasure!

Many Happy Returns On December 5th, Thais celebrate the birthday of His Majesty the King.

The height of Samui chic is being stirred but unshaken – The Library becomes cooler than ever.

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Sequel in Progress!

Short Cuts Combine your holiday on Samui with cosmetic surgery for a beautiful new you.

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Sip, Pair, Indulge, Watch W Retreat Koh Samui continues to expand the mind and dazzle the senses.

108 Deft Touches Anantara Bophut Resort & Spa’s expert massages and treatments are guaranteed to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

114 Ringing in the New A look at Hansar Samui as they reveal their gourmet New Year’s Eve menu.

120 Lewd & Rude At Hinta Hinyai, rocks get ribald and are guaranteed to provoke a reaction.

126 Master Class

A look at why it’s well worth a trip for the cooking classes at Olivio.

132 What You Got? Different attitudes and lifestyles mean that there’s a huge range of accommodation here – depending on what you want!

136 Gone Fishing From time immemorial Samui people have set out to sea to fish. Now you can join them.

T H E

H O M E

O F

I N S P I R E D

I N T E R I O R S

Phuket 424 Srisoonthorn Rd. Cherngtalay Tel/Fax: +66 (0) 76 325 419

Samui 9/18 Moo1 Maenam Tel/Fax: +66 (0) 77 247 675

info@oriental-living.net

www.oriental-living.net

An Exclusive Gem on the shores of Koh Samui Prana Resort Nandana invites you to an idyllic Thai sanctuary where traditional charm co-exists with modern comfort, where leisure travellers can bask in nature’s beauty while rejuvenating both body and mind, and business travellers can attend meetings in an atmosphere conducive to inspire creativity.

60 brand new rooms which include 5 direct pool access rooms and 1 Suite Stylish outdoor swimming pool with outdoor jacuzzi and children’s pool

Zama Rooftop Kitchen / Bar Wine Bar 3 function rooms with conference and banquet facilities

On-site signature spa with private treatment rooms

Tour Desk

Fitness Centre

Easy access to the beach

Kids’ Club

3km from Koh Samui Airport

Gift Shop

5km from Fisherman’s Village and Central Festival Samui

Access to Prana Beach Villas’ facilities

Tel: +66 77 246 362

14/3 Moo 4. T. Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand 84320 Fax: +66 77 246 369 Email: reservation@pranaresorts.com www.pranaresorts.com

SAMUi’s newest rooftop restaurant serving innovative thai and gourmet european fare

RiSE ABOVE

ROOFTOP KiTCHEN / BAR

Prana Resort Nandana, Bangrak, 14/3 Moo 4. T. Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand 84320 Reservations: +66 77 246 362 Email: events@pranaresorts.com www.zamasamui.com

Island Insight An overall guide to Samui’s towns, villages, beaches and hotspots.

Samui is an idyllic tropical paradise. A blend of traditional Thai hospitality and remote island life has joined hands with modern traveller expectations. But the towns, villages and interior are home to much more than just luxury resorts, restaurants, bars and retail shops. And whilst the main beaches are recognised as some of the best in the world, there are also secluded coves and magical hideaways around many corners – if you know where to look. And this quick guide will point you in the right direction.

Chaweng

Chaweng’s main beach is five kilometres in length and is lined with 5-star luxury resorts, boutique hotels, budget accommodation and great oceanfront restaurants.

Behind the resorts, the Chaweng Beach Road is filled with restaurants, bars, spas, shops, street stalls and mobile food vendors. The lake sits to the rear of them and is a wonderful place for an early morning walk or jog. Near the southern end of the lake is the Soi Reggae entertainment area which also has two Muay Thai boxing stadiums, a temple guarded by carved monkeys and the huge Laem Din market complex. All manner of fresh produce is delivered here every day and the adjoining Dow Seafood market is a hive of activity from the early hours.

Lamai

Samui’s second most popular beach is around four kilometres long and the waters are perfect for swimming. There’s plenty of choice in accommodation, restaurants, bars, spas and health resorts. It also has a free Muay Thai event every Saturday and just off the Beach Road there’s a children’s water park. Wat Lamai is home to a cultural centre and museum that houses artifacts of Samui life before the advent of tourism. On Sundays there’s a ‘Walking Street’ along part of the Beach Road.

And just outside of Lamai town on the ring-road is the famous Hin Ta-Hin Yai rock formations that has dozens of small local Thai restaurants around it.

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Mae Nam

Nestled on the northern shores of the island, Mae Nam Beach stretches for several kilometres and overlooks the neighbouring island of Koh Pha-Ngan. High-end resorts and beach bungalows are dotted along the coast and many visitors love it for its peacefulness, soft golden sands and wonderful views. It has seven side streets that meander into the mountains: from Soi 1 you can follow the road over the mountains all the way to Lamai; Soi 4 has a ‘Walking Street’ every Thursday from mid-afternoon and also houses an ornate Chinese temple overlooking the beach and a large Buddhist temple set a few hundred metres back from the ringroad; Soi 5 has a tree-top canopy adventure theme park a few kilometres into the hills; there’s a buffalo fighting stadium a couple of hundred metres off the main road between Soi 5 and Soi 6; an early morning market is also in Soi 6; an evening market near to Soi 7; and the world-class Santiburi Golf Course in the hills above Soi 7. There’re dozens of bars and restaurants in Mae Nam, many of which are on side roads that lead down to the ocean. And at the western end of the beach the Lomprayah ferry takes passengers to the neighbouring islands several times a day.

NathoN

This is the island’s main administrative centre and the major ferry port for boats to and from the mainland. There’re some hotels but it’s more a town you would visit for an afternoon rather than stay in. Beside the terminal, there’s a local food market every day from mid-afternoon until late in the evening. Along what is known as the ‘middle road’ there’re old teak shop-houses and small businesses and a ‘Walking Street’ on Saturdays. And on the one-way road that goes through the town there’re dozens of shops and restaurants. Just off the main road there’s an ornate Chinese temple and garden in Soi 4. And near the far end there’s a renowned open-air duck restaurant – just follow the crowds around lunchtime.

Bo Phut

Bo Phut is best known for Fisherman’s Village. It’s a single narrow street that still has authentic wooden houses that Samui folk have lived in for generations. Parts of it have been modernized but it’s still awash with local foods, international restaurants, bars, shops and market stalls. It becomes one huge ‘Walking Street’ every Friday and you’ll find lots of local delicacies that few other restaurants have. Along with small hotels, there’re several 5-star luxury resorts at the far end and the beach curves around a large bay that also overlooks Koh Pha-Ngan.

And small speedboats leave from the village pier heading for the Full Moon parties that take place there every month.

Big Buddha and Plai Laem

The magnificent golden Big Buddha statue that watches over the island from the north-east corner of Samui is one of the first things you see as you fly into Samui Airport. Built on a tiny island (Koh Farn) with a connecting causeway, it’s the most iconic image of the island. Many Thais pray at the temple so dressing and acting appropriately is expected when you enter the site. There’re some very good Thai restaurants and small stores around the temple. It also affords some beautiful views and along the road from it you’ll see another large Buddha image at Wat Plai Laem. Half-way along the road between the temples is a side road that cuts through to Choeng Mon. Down this road there’s access to some quiet secluded beaches, although some of them are through resorts.

Choeng Mon

Choeng Mon lies just 15 minutes or so from the middle of Chaweng but it seems like worlds away. There’s a small town that the road runs through with a couple of dozen restaurants and bars. The beach is a favourite for many locals as it’s quiet, picturesque and safe for swimming most of the year round. There’s every class of accommodation with some old-style beach bungalows at one end. And they all overlook the tiny deserted island of Koh Farn Noi which you can walk out to if the tide is low.

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Bang Rak

In between Fisherman’s Village and Big Buddha is where you’ll find Bang Rak. There’s a few very good resorts and some private villas for rent along the beachfront that stretches around for several kilometres and has stunning views.

Bars and restaurants line the main street and there’re two piers. The one nearest to Big Buddha has daily ferries to Koh Pha-Ngan, Koh Tao and on to the mainland port of Chumpon, from which a VIP bus takes passengers to Hua Hin and on to Bangkok. Start to finish, it’s a 12-hour journey with about half of it on the boat.

Just beside the ferry terminal in Bang Rak is one of the busiest fish markets on the island. Local fishermen drop their catches here and the place is bustling with people all day long. At the other end of town there’s a short-cut into Chaweng on a road called Soi Bond Kai (which the locals refer to as the ‘Ghost Road’).

Taling Ngam and Lipa Noi

The south-west part of the island is known as the ‘Virgin Coast’. It’s largely unspoiled with lots of secluded bays, although most of the shoreline tends to be rocky. The west coast overlooks the famous ‘five islands’ and some of the closer islands of the Angthong National Marine Park (which is a perfect getaway for a day’s boat trip excursion). In this part of the island there’re some hotels, private villas for rent, up-market and local restaurants and several temples of note, including two that house a mummified monk. A second car ferry terminal is located in Lipa Noi and, like the one in Nathon, boats to and from Donsak on the mainland arrive and depart every hour from 5:00 am until 6:00 pm (check for details). And inland on the island’s main ring-road there’re several large waterfall sites and a safari park with elephant trekking, animal shows and adventure tours. Further along, next to the Ford and Mazda dealers is a new Butterfly and Insect Kingdom Park.

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Hua Thanon

This predominately muslim village is home to the descendants of some of the island’s earliest settlers. There’s still a thriving fishing fleet and fish market and a natural coastline that’s survived the ravages of time. Just after the village (coming from Lamai) you can turn off the ring-road to the left and signs will direct you to the nearby Tiger Zoo, Aquarium and Sea-life Show, the Butterfly Farm, the Snake Farm and the local Rum Distillery.

Thong Krut

With its brightly coloured fishing boats and backdrop of small islands to the one side, and coconut plantations to the other, Thong Krut is a picturesque little village.

Located in the southwest corner of the island, this is where you’ll come if you’re after a long-tail boat to take you to the nearby islands of Koh Tan and Koh Matsum.

Lining the shore you’ll find a selection of simple restaurants offering Thai food, and particularly good seafood, as well as tour operators offering trips to the islands.

The Interior

Samui predominately consists of hills, mountains and coconut plantations. And few visitors make the time to appreciate its hidden beauty. One way to do so is to take the turning into Mae Nam Soi 1. A new road has recently been constructed that goes over the mountains all the way to Lamai. The drive is only about 20-25 minutes over 15 kilometres with a couple of stopping off areas that offer fabulous views. Another way to really get the full picture of Samui is from Tar Nim’s Magic Garden at the top of one of the island’s highest peaks. Built during a 25-year period by a local farmer the stone statues in the garden were sculpted by hand and sit over 2,000 feet above the beaches below.

w w w. t h e l a r d e r s a m u i . c o m 9/114 Moo 2 | Chaweng K o h S a m u i | S u r a t Th a n i 8 4 3 2 0 t: 077-601-259

Open 12pm - 11pm lunch through dinner Closed Sundays

AS FEATURED IN

AS FEATURED ON

CHILL DIFFER ENT

Reservations: 077 458 100

/ BeachRepublic

QUICKER

THAN THE BLINK OF AN EYE

Photographer Claudio Cerquetti captures the beauty of Samui, frame by frame.

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There’s an old technique that Japanese Zen artists used in order to hone their skills. Their teachers told them to draw a circle. They dipped their brushes in ink and got going. It was all about seizing the moment, and expressing their skill in a second or two. Not so easy, of course, and to master just this technique would invariably take years. And by the time the novice was able to draw the perfect circle, then he or she would have mastered many other techniques along the way, and be able to draw people, animals and landscapes.

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The photographic world has its own challenges, and a young Italian novice photographer, Claudio Cerquetti, who began learning the art of photography at the age of 12, set himself the task of photographing something very small. An ant, two millimetres long, drinking from a drop of water. You might be surprised at this. After all, it really isn’t a hard task, is it? Find your ant, click away and you’re done. Right?

Absolutely! You’re bound to end up with a snapshot with a small ant in it somewhere.

Claudio describes the challenge in very different terms. “I wanted a close-up shot of the ant; for it to be as large as possible and for the ant to be doing something interesting. Of course, I needed to use a special lens that would magnify the tiniest detail, and bought myself one by selling my Nintendo videogames. I was ready. Now came the difficult part – getting a good shot and one that would be interesting. I got in close. It was a microscopic field, multiplied by a thousand. All sorts of things could go wrong: camera shake, focus, lighting, or a tiny current of air. Once you manage all the many technical issues involved in shooting a microscopic scene, then a larger subject is relatively easy. That ant had taught me everything.”

Soon afterwards, Claudio started up his own company, based in Rome.

This was in 1984, and he’s since gone on to publish no less than 26 photography books. He’s also lectured on photography and taught in

Rome’s Academy of Art. As a photojournalist, he has been published in major Italian and Japanese photo magazines as well as in Germany and the USA with photo essays on Tibet, Japan, Mexico, Jamaica, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Turkey, Iceland, Morocco, Egypt, New Caledonia, Australia and the USA, to name but a few.

He has also lived and worked in Japan, and it was while he was there that he started coming to Samui for short holidays. He began to enjoy it more and more, and soon began to think about moving here. It was a beautiful island, and for a photographer, there were countless shots waiting to be taken.

Claudio made the move in 2002, and was soon receiving assignments.

People liked his style and the way in which he went to painstaking lengths to get great shots. They could see too that it wasn’t just a case of getting lucky, and choosing a few shots out of hundreds to meet the requirements. “If you’re an amateur that can work,” says Claudio.

“Holidaymakers can end up getting really superb shots. But they know they’ve been lucky. If you’re a professional, then luck isn’t part of the equation. You have to be consistently good all the time. Or your client, often a world renowned resort group, will not pay your bill. You have to present a travel destination at its best, and whenever possible bring out any particular aspects that may otherwise not get coverage.”

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Claudio focuses on architecture, food, resorts and real estate. He often works for heads of sales and marketing who want good photos for their booking systems or for corporate editorial advertising. For hotel shoots, you might think it’s just a question of turning up and shooting away.

Maybe take along a spare camera, just in case? Claudio says that in many cases, the entire hotel is closed for a day while he’s on assignment. And that of course is an expensive business: no guests mean a loss of revenue. And this in turn means that Claudio can’t afford for anything to go wrong. He can’t postpone and ask to come back on another day; can’t just say to the hotel manager that there’s an unforeseen glitch and he’ll be back soon. So he has to be not just well-prepared, but literally ready for anything. Says Claudio, “I take at least three cameras. I also need two assistants as my ‘guardian angels’.

I have Vhern, a very talented professional who’s always in the front line with me, and Khun Nam, who has my back making sure everything works. And there’s enough equipment to fill 16 Samsonite suitcases. We have to have everything. Nothing can be left to chance. We even take 200 metres of extension cord with us. Sure, the resort may have its own equipment, but it could take the technician there some ten minutes to get it to us. And when we decide we need some back-up lighting for a shot, we need it in place fast – in ten minutes the natural light may have changed.”

Aside from his commercial work, Claudio’s equally well-known for his amazing shots of the island. And once again, no luck is involved. Some of them have been taken leaning perilously out of helicopters as they circle the coast, but most times it’s sheer legwork that’s involved. To get the best shots he’s often up at 3:00 am so he can trudge up a mountain

chef’s dinner specials

Overseeing the culinary team at Hansar Samui, born and raised in Montreal, Canada, Chef Stephen began his culinary career at the famed restaurant Les Halles in Quebec, one of the most outstanding independent restaurants in Canada.

A unique opportunity to be the Private Chef to His Majesty the King of Jordan became a turning point in his career and he spent the next two years catering for the Royal Family.

Stephen spent the next five years at the Lebua at State Tower Bangkok (known as the Dome) and within a few years became the Executive Chef at the Sirocco restaurant.

At our beachfront H Bistro restaurant, Stephen has created a unique epicurean experience for guests where they can appreciate the authentic taste of French Mediterranean Cuisine, in addition to a Thai menu. to capture views. He takes shots at different times and in totally different conditions, and over the years has built up a vast library of pictures of the island. “If you live on Samui for years, always focusing on finding the best shots to take, and then repeatedly taking them, then you’ll eventually end up capturing the island’s beauty,” he says. A decade of photographs of a particular coast is bound to yield some amazing shots that capture the essence of the place.

Claudio’s in the process of producing a book of photographs of Samui, which will consist of the best pictures he’s taken since he arrived on the island. He’s received the blessing and go-ahead from local and national authorities, such as the Samui Municipality, THA, TAKS and TAT. To select the right pictures Claudio’s had to go through tens of thousands of photographs, to choose those that particularly stand out. Even though he already has a vast array of photos, he can still be seen out and about photographing the beauty of the island, and as often as not, finding some new vista that even people who were born and bred here have yet to see!

Stephen Dion “an epicurean experience one shouldn’t be missed”

Dimitri Waring

_____________________________________________________________ For further information, telephone 0 872 704 972. www.fantasyatwork.com

H Bistro at Hansar Samui 101/27-28 Moo 1, Bophut, Koh Samui +66 77 245 511 www.hansarsamui.com

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STRESS FREE AND SURPRISING. When it comes to massage, Eranda Herbal Spa offers brilliant treatments with a setting to match.

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On Samui, it’s so easy to get a massage. The entire island seems to offer treatments, no matter where you go. They range from simple beach massages to elegant packages offered by high-end resorts.

Some are merely good, while others, like Eranda Herbal Spa, are outstanding. But just what is it that makes that difference? At Eranda, one of the ways in which they excel is to consider your well-being before you’ve even arrived: the spa offers a free round trip pick-up service in Chaweng, Bophut and Choeng Mon (but please check regarding other areas on Samui). This means that you won’t need to get to the spa by yourself. The driver picks you up at your hotel or villa and whisks you off directly to Eranda; no chance of losing your way, being late or just simply getting lost.

Anyone who’s ever arrived at a spa already stressed knows it’ll take a while to unwind. But if you care to use their service, then you’re guaranteed to be already relaxed as you step into Eranda.

And once you do, that sense of relaxation is going to suddenly deepen – and that’s before you’ve even started the treatment. This is simply because the spa is set in one of Samui’s most magnificent gardens - another factor that makes Eranda stand out from the crowd. The garden looks like it’s been put together by botanical experts, showing you just how beautiful nature in the tropics can be. There’s a greenness here that you won’t see in many other places, and that’s thanks to the sheer proliferation of plants and trees.

When you arrive, you’re shown to the main pavilion with its thatched roof and views of, yes, that garden. It’s a place to relax in itself. You’ll be greeted by a friendly receptionist who will bring you an iced drink, made of ginger and tamarind, to refresh you. Next you’ll be given the spa menu to make your selections from.

There are treatments of every kind, and all of them are surprisingly affordable. You can choose between various massages: hot stone, ancient Thai, hot compress, as well as Eranda’s own signature massage, which takes care of your whole body and is very therapeutic. There are also body wraps and scrubs, herbal steam sessions with plunge pool, and blissful packages that can range from anything over a couple of hours to almost five. These typically consist of having a herbal steam sauna, followed by relaxing in a Jacuzzi or plunge pool before a massage. They also have a package for couples. Don’t worry if you’re unable to decide; the spa manager can give you advice on what you might enjoy best.

You’ll also be brought a tray holding small bottles of oils. These are used in the massage, and each has different properties. The spa manager can help you choose, but perhaps the best way – and you’re encouraged to do this – is to take the stopper off each bottle in turn and savour the scent within.

Choose the one that most appeals to you.

Next you’ll be taken via the garden to your massage sala. The salas are contemporary, and combine being discreet with being open to nature.

And what better view to have while you’re being massaged than one of the lushest gardens on the island? It’s definitely more soothing than being surrounded by concrete – or any other building material, for that matter.

Salas are all equipped with bathrooms, and there are steam rooms, too.

The massage beds are so comfortable, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in a five-star hotel. And no matter where you are at Eranda, you’ll be able to hear the splashing of the stream that makes its way down through the garden. The massage rooms also play soft Thai music, which is unobtrusive and adds to the atmosphere.

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The massage is guaranteed to be excellent. How can the directors of Eranda be so sure? For a start, the masseuses are all trained at Wat Po in Bangkok, the authority for Thai massage. But qualifying doesn’t give anyone the right to practise at Eranda, no matter how many years they have been working. Each and every aspiring masseuse has to undergo a six-month probation period. At no point during this time are they allowed to massage a guest. They practise on other members of staff, and in a final exam give a massage to the owner. If they pass (and this is not a given) then they will have mastered the Eranda style, and be totally up to the standard required. Sounds rigorous? It definitely is, and standards are very much higher than at the average spa.

After the massage is over, you’ll go back through the gardens and be served a delicious tea accompanied by cookies. Take your time and savour the experience you’ve just had. In any case, you’ll not want to rush off into the rest of your day as you’ll be feeling so relaxed. When you’re ready, the driver will take you back to your hotel or villa.

All the treatments are listed on their website, along with all the information you could possibly need. You can naturally book by phone, but you can also do so through the website or ask any questions you might have, thanks to the chat service – your queries will be quickly answered by fluent English speakers. The spa is located in the north of Chaweng, on the beach road about a kilometre after Samui International Hospital.

With so much going for Eranda, it’s not surprising that so many people choose to come here to savour a truly wonderful spa treatment. With relaxed, green surroundings and highly trained masseuses, you’re definitely in good hands. The people at Eranda have thought of absolutely everything to make your visit perfect. And with Eranda approaching its 15th year of operation, you can see that this is a spa that’s stood the test of time.

Dimitri Waring __________________________________________ For reservations or further information telephone 0 7730 0323, 0 7730 0321 or 0 983 291 445. www.erandaspa.com

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A PLANELOAD OF PILLS A look at some common holiday ailments in Thailand – how to spot them and what to do.

Let’s make an informed guess. I reckon there has been more well-meaning advice written on Thai illness and disease than anything else. Probably even more than you’ll find on where to go and what to do. You’ll find alarmist tales of malaria, dengue fever, encephalitis, polio, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) typhoid, hepatitis A & B and tetanus. Not to mention the presence of snakes, scorpions and worries about HIV. If you took all this seriously, you’d never come. And, if you did, then forget about swimming – you’d leak like a sieve from all those puncture marks! So what’s it all about?

Well, to start with, all of these are real diseases. All but possibly two on that list above exist, but are rare. Dengue fever exists. And tetanus can happen too. But for every one instance of a tourist with dengue, there are a million others suffering from chronic sunburn or diarrhoea. However, that’s not really the point. The thing is there is no free medical care in Thailand. You will need to pay for any and all hospital and medical treatment. Later, yes, you can claim it back from your insurance.

But if you just so happen to be one in a million and pick up something unpleasant, your insurer may not want to settle your bill unless you can prove you’ve had the shots for it before you came. If you’re prudent, you’ll check on this beforehand, especially if you’re planning to come here with your kids. And, really, it’s the very young and the elderly that tend to suffer the most. But, like most things, a couple of grams of prevention is worth a kilo of aftercare. And so with this in mind, let’s take a look at the every-day pitfalls of staying in Thailand.

Samui’s an island. And so right away, the problem of sunburn heads the list. Be careful here. Out on a boat, or even under cloudy skies, that UV is still powering through, feel it or not. And when you do feel it, it’s too late. I used to know an Aussie guy who came here every year for a month. He never ever sat directly in the sun, but merely lay with a book in the shade of the palms that fringed the beach. He always went home the colour of teak. Kids are different, so keep them covered up and smothered in sun block, especially their faces and the tops of their shoulders.

Dehydration comes a close second. Merely sitting about in a climate that has a temperature of 30 degrees and humidity at 80% (or more) means your body is losing water – more than you’ll realise. One or two cold fizzy sodas won’t do much harm, although the sugar won’t help, but it’s water you need, at least two litres a day. And avoid daytime beer - the alcohol simply increases your dehydration. If you’re tired, lethargic and your urine is dark, you’re dehydrated.

Other holiday ailments here relate to swimming. Your eyes and ears are prime targets, with conjunctivitis being common. Minor irritations of the ear are not uncommon, but need to be carefully monitored. If the itching or popping becomes at all painful, get it checked immediately – the change in pressure in the aircraft on the flight back home could possibly damage an eardrum. Any cuts and grazes picked up while on the beach or out snorkelling need thorough and immediate disinfection with an effective antiseptic. The water might look inviting, but the island’s wastewater goes out to sea untreated.

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And then, of course, every traveller’s bane, diarrhoea. There’s no quick fix for this one. All you can do is wait it out. Diet is vital. Avoid food that is fatty or fried and all dairy products, and don’t drink coffee or alcohol.

You’ll dehydrate, so drink plenty of water and electrolyte drinks. If you need to help things along then anti-diarrhoea tablets should be a supplement (but not the prime objective) for a day or so. But there are things to be aware of here. Food poisoning from eating contaminated food (usually seafood) appears in the form of intense cramps and sudden diarrhoea within hours of eating. The give-away is nausea and vomiting accompanied by a fever.

If this happens, then seek immediate medical advice.

A point of caution - be wary of those restaurants who try to lure customers by extravagant displays of seafood packed in ice out front. What do you think happens to what’s left at the end of the day? And then you only have to look at the grey, slushy ice, polluted by dust and road dirt, to keep on walking. The best restaurants buy only what they know they will need and keep seafood like crabs, lobster and tiger prawn live in indoor tanks.

A great many visitors who come here are already on medication of one sort or another, particularly those who are older. In fact, it’s been known for some to arrive with a small suitcase full of assorted prescription drugs.

There really is no need for this anymore. Samui now has word-standard hospitals and pharmacies, such as Bangkok Hospital Samui, and the chain of first-class Morya pharmacies. Morya are able to analyse any prescription medication you show them, and quickly supply an identical product. This is the genuine article, not some kind of cheap Asian copy.

And they also have qualified pharmacists at each outlet who can help you with what you need.

So much for the perils of daily life on Samui! But there is one thing more to cover. Mosquitoes. Malaria-carrying mosquitoes are only found way off the beaten track, deep in the uninhabited jungles of Thailand’s north and northeast. And if you are bitten by one of these then you probably won’t know about it while you are on holiday – malaria takes about two weeks to appear. Dengue fever, on the other hand, has been known occasionally in this region. The symptoms show up in four or five days, and are a dangerously high fever accompanied by bad headaches and severe bone pain. In the event of this appearing, seek immediate hospital treatment.

And that’s it! That’s the reality of living here. And really, there’s no need to bring a planeload of pills with you when you come!

Rob De Wet 40 l www.samuiholiday.com

THE R E S TA U R A N T

Pavilion presents the best in Samui Boutique Resort dining.

The Patio Restaurant serves authentic Italian and Thai delicacies.

Experience a romantic meal with outstanding sea views.

The Look-Out Bar is the ideal place to unwind with a drink by our beach side pool.

Wedding on the Beach Experience the most special day of your life in romantic tropical surroundings at Pavilion Samui Boutique Resort.

Select from our Western, Thai and Chinese wedding options.

Let us tailor make a celebration for you or choose one of our wedding packages.

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Lamai Beach, Koh Samui Tel: 0 7742 4420, 0 7742 4030 Fax: 0 7742 4029 www.samuiholiday.com info@pavilionsamui.com www.pavilionsamui.com

Serving an exciting variety of Thai, Italian and seafood from our open, show kitchen with genuine pizza oven.

Choose from open air seating on the first floor with ocean view or air-conditioned seating on the ground floor.

Live music every night.

Open daily from 12 noon till 11 pm Located on Lamai Beach Road opposite Pavilion Samui Boutique Resort www.samuiholiday.com l 43 Reservation: 077 424 420

ASIAN APPEAL Chandra’s beautiful fashions are inspired by two designers’ journeys round Asia and beyond.

The Chandra concept was born on Koh Samui, in 2003. Dana Cohen and Barak Weiss, who both came from an artistic and fashion background, created real resort wear boutiques with original collections for women and men. They now have three branches, with two boutiques on Chaweng Beach Road, as well as a flagship shop on Surin Beach, Phuket.

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Designer/Styling Dana Cohen Designer/Photographer Barak Weiss Photographer & Lighting Assistant Uziel Amir Hair & Makeup Alena Lewis Models Dream Chanokporn Sayoungkul & Matthiew Inglese Shooting Location Iniala Beach House Phuket www.iniala.com www.chandra-exotic.com

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Welcome to Morya Pharmacy, your one-stop healthcare destination on Samui. 欢迎来到苏梅岛度假胜地之一的 Morya Pharmacy The new definition of a full service pharmacy. 以全方位服务理念为新定义的药房

The best and largest range of healthcare and organic products, gifts and souvenirs on Samui. 是苏梅岛规模最大，产品最优的生产有机产品、 礼品和纪念品的制造保健中心

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GOLF, GRILLING AND GREENSWARDS It’s onwards and upwards for Frisbee Golf Samui as disc golf gets increasingly popular.

It’s odd what can happen when you take time off work simply to enjoy yourself. With nothing urgent to do, no stressful thoughts to preoccupy you, the mind’s freed up and can take a different direction. You can end up being inspired to do something radically different, and can even find a new way of life. This is precisely what happened to Nigel Mills, who’d decided to leave the United States and settle in Thailand. He’d had enough of working for up to 16 hours a day for an IT company and was enjoying a few months’ leisure before flying out of his native California.

“That’s precisely when I discovered disc golf,” he says. “I had no idea how appealing it was. All I really knew about it was that a couple of guys used to play it at university; I’d hear their Frisbees clanging off light posts. It didn’t sound too exciting. But that was before a friend invited me to play.” Nigel was hooked and loved it from the start. He didn’t let it stop him from leaving, though, but never forgot the experience of playing. Once in Thailand, he realized that there was nowhere to play the game at all. But Nigel has a strong entrepreneurial streak, and it wasn’t long before Frisbees were flying through the air on Samui.

Initially, Nigel rented some land and Samui Frisbee Golf was born.

However the land was expensive, and back then relatively few people had heard of disc golf. Also, Nigel’s passion for cooking tended to get in the way – by this time he’d turned it into a career choice, offering a

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catering service to villas and individuals. So, for a while, he decided to shelve his Frisbees.

But then he moved to Maenam, on the north coast, and now has a new course – in his own garden. It’s a wonderful setting, and probably unlike any ‘garden’ you’ll have seen before. It’s part of an extensive palm plantation, and the course is set amongst swaying coconut trees and bushes, where all manner of tropical fruits grow: mangosteen, rambutan, papaya and bananas. No matter where you’ve played before, you’re unlikely to have come across the kind of terrain that’s on offer here.

The deep, vibrant jungle green of the area has a mesmerizing quality to it. The surroundings are bucolic, and the experience of playing here is extraordinarily relaxing. “Trees and vegetation are all part of the game,” says Nigel, “They’re natural obstacles that make the game more challenging and ultimately more fun.”

In disc golf, the idea is to send a Frisbee humming through the air, not towards a hole, but to a medieval-looking stand where the disc falls into a basket. It doesn’t look easy and definitely isn’t. But there’s something very catchy about it. “For some people it’s really addictive,” says Nigel.

“The game’s becoming ever more popular all over the world and new people are trying it out all the time.”

The idea is to tee off from a start point, which is marked by coloured coconuts. There are three choices of where to start, depending on the level of difficulty. You can throw the Frisbee any way you want; you can have it sailing gracefully through the air or toss it like a hammer - whatever gets you closer to your target!

The game is very popular with groups of friends and families.

It makes for a great respite from the beach, too. The garden’s always shady, so it tends to be cooler here. Nigel’s prices are extremely reasonable. It’s just 250 Baht per adult, 100 Baht for children under the age of ten, and for those under six, completely free. On average it takes just under an hour to complete the course, but you can play as many rounds as you wish on the day.

Naturally, there are refreshments and snacks available. And here you’re in for some real treats; because Nigel is a chef, so what’s on offer is truly tasty. There are pizzas, sandwiches and chicken wings, with sides of garlic bread - it’s simple food, but all freshly and lovingly prepared. If you’d like to host a birthday party here – and plenty of people love to do this – then Nigel will only be too happy to put on a special event for you. He’s a dab hand when it comes to large-scale barbecues and has some very professional equipment to produce a variety of grilled meat and fish. His

company, Nigel’s BBQ and Catering, is well-known on the island and caters for many events.

harvested with greater regularity than usual – no chance of a coconut falling on your head, here.

Frisbee golf isn’t just popular with holidaymakers, but with residents, too. “We have a community of some 30 or so players,” says Nigel.

“We hold a weekly tournament on Wednesdays, and I usually do a food special, maybe pizzas, or chilli dogs – usually something simple, but tasty.” Nigel also hosts the annual Samui Swine Classic, a two-day tournament that’s held in February, and attracts people from as far away as Europe. If you wondering what the word swine refers to, it’s not the players but the food; Nigel makes roast pig on both the days of the tournament.

To get there, head towards Maenam and turn into Soi 5, where you’ll see a sign for Frisbee Golf (just past the traffic lights if you’re coming from Chaweng) and head inland for 500 metres. Turn right where you see the next sign and go another 500 metres until you see the course itself. Spending a few hours at Frisbee Golf Samui is definitely a great alternative to the beach or swimming pool. And you may just get really into it and continue playing once you return home!

The course is kept in great shape. The grass is always kept short, thanks to being cut regularly. Each cut takes about four days. Coconut trees are

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Dimitri Waring

____________________________________________________________ For further information, telephone 0 986 703 315. www.samuidiscgolf.com

HAND-MADE JEWELRY MADE TO ORDER. GOLD, SILVER, LEATHER, PRECIOUS AND SEMI PRECIOUS STONES. TWO LOCATIONS IN CHAWENG: 1ST: CHAWENG BEACH ROAD, PHONE: +(66)0 7742 2594 2ND: CENTRAL FESTIVAL SAMUI 2ND FLOOR, PHONE: +(66)0 7796 3811 WWW.THAILAND-JEWELRY.COM Nature Art Gallery Central Festival Samui CHAWENG BEACH ROAD

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THE JOY The Cliff not only boasts a wonderful location, but also has two top international chefs working for your dining pleasure!

Things on Samui are getting harder and harder! I mean, once upon a time, it was easy – simply because you didn’t have much choice. I’m talking about eating, and dining out in the evening in particular. Twenty years ago, you just strolled about until you found a nice hut on the beach, and then sat down and ate their barbecue. And then, on your last night, you went out for posh meal in a top hotel. And of course, even that was easy, because there was only a handful to pick from. But today our little island has become a world-renowned mecca for gourmets. Five-star resorts abound on Samui, and each has a menu to match. Not to mention the plethora of super stand-alone eateries, many of them of world standard. And one of these, and a name of note, is The Cliff Bar & Grill on the very edge of Lamai.

Well, it’s actually a little bit out of Lamai town itself, and just about the first viewpoint you’ll come to on the steep rocky hillside (hence the name) as you head towards Chaweng. Inside, the design and décor are impressive in their simplicity. There’s one long dining room with a wall of glass overlooking the bay, running onto a cosy and mellow adjoining bar area.

At night, it’s all dark solid wood and warm lighting. And in the daytime, it’s cool and shady. Plus there’s a dining terrace perched outside along the top of the cliff. This is where everyone wants to be, so a booking for here is a must.

The Cliff first opened its doors in 2004, and the aim from the word go was to engage a world-class chef and establish a menu of equal quality.

This they did with the appointment of Executive Chef, Sergio Martelli. He’s been here from the start, and over the years has honed and modified his original Mediterranean-based menu, expanding it and adding dishes and sections to make it one of the best you’ll come across anywhere. Although it features dishes from all over the Mediterranean region, the bias is towards Italian specialities, as you may have guessed from Sergio’s name!

He’s always believed in using the best quality ingredients, and every day gets a delivery of fresh organic vegetables flown-in from Bangkok, not to mention the imported Australian beef (never frozen merely chilled), and the speciality live lobster imported from Canada.

Yes, there is a focus on seafood here, right across the main menu and the tapas too (more of this in a moment). But Samui is an island. And what can’t be found fresh each morning at the local market is specifically imported. The menu is expansive. But to simplify things, there are a selection of ‘sets’ available with combinations of seafood offerings, topping out with ‘Zarzuele De Marisco’ – a seafood extravaganza with risotto and salad for two people. And then there are also the ‘Chef’s Specials’; items which are not on the menu, changed every few days and worth looking out for.

But, just to make the point, The Cliff has been awarded the prestigious annual ‘Thailand Tatler Best Restaurants’ award eight times in the ten years that it’s been running. And on top of that, in the last three years it’s also picked up the ‘Hospitality Asia Platinum Award’ (HAPA) ‘Best Ten in Asia’ for the last three consecutive years, coming-in as the Restaurant of the Year in 2012. Unlike some restaurant awards, the HAPA scrutiny places weight on the quality of staff and service, as well as the cuisine.

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The Cliff is an all-day restaurant, constantly seeing diners drop in as they tour around the island. It’s all very well having an award-winning dinnermenu to die for, but a large part of the clientele arrives in a more nibbly frame of mind. A few years back this led to the introduction of a tapas menu, which for some time sat alongside the main one. But, today, that’s been revitalised, and has taken off like a rocket. And that’s entirely been due to the appearance of Sous Chef Nicolas Vicens.

Another world-class chef, Nicolas just happened to be touring around Thailand on holiday last February, and, while on Samui, heard there was a vacancy. He turned up with all his paperwork and references, and four days later was offered the position. Thus two months later he was putting his new tapas menu into place at The Cliff. His offerings are anything but run-of-the mill. Using traditional ingredients and recipes, he’ll give them a subtle twist that moves them from the simply subtle to the superbly sublime – what he likes to call ‘complex contemporary tapas’.

Take the signature ‘Lobster Tail Sandwich Asparagus and Mushrooms’.

Once experienced, you’ll demand it for breakfast every morning – never mind the cornflakes! It’s a slender morsel, succulent and crunchy, with the bread being fried, and complementing the firm flesh of the lobster tail, setting off the asparagus and mushrooms to absolute perfection. There are just so many tapas here in the same class of gourmet delight that it’s almost impossible to choose. Fortunately, there are also two multi-dish ‘combos’ on the menu, so you don’t need to. And you can devour these delicacies any time you want as the tapas menu runs all day.

I could go on! The selection of wines here is outstanding, with more than 100 labels of classic and New World offerings, and the stock is continually being added to and refined. (Oh – and you can add another glittering prize; that of the Wine Spectator Award 2014, for ‘restaurants with the best selection of wines in the world’). And then the cigar pairings: there’s a fine range of hand-made cigars, each of which has a recommended match with a similarly super wine.

It’s all very up-market and it’s all totally top-notch. And now, with the addition of Nicolas and his tapas, it’s true to say that at The Cliff Bar & Grill – there’s double the joy all round!

Rob De Wet

____________________________________________________________ For reservations or further information, telephone 0 7744 8508. www.thecliffsamui.com 60 l www.samuiholiday.com

SUBLIME

PSYLO Psylo’s two stores in Chaweng showcase clothing that’s unique, urban and far from mainstream.

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Step into either of Psylo’s two Samui stores and you realize that you’ve arrived somewhere unexpected. Psylo has something of the creativity of an art gallery about it, and as you spend time here you’ll realize it’s more of a state of mind than a place.

People come here to buy clothes that have stepped well away from fashion’s mainstream staples. You won’t find much in the way of bright colours here, and Psylo is the very opposite of preppy. It’s a place that enshrines mostly earth colours and tones. But dull, it ain’t. Without going overboard with the artist’s palette, the clothing always manages to exude vibrancy. These are items that stand out, even if some of them have camouflage colours. (One particular label even describes an article of dark green clothing as being ‘army colour’.) It’s definitely fringe-style clothing and always artistic. Everything, however, is tailored to be extremely comfortable and has an engaging simplicity about it. You’ll also find vintage and retro elements.

The clothes are often described as being urban, but the colours hark back to the fields and forests of rural Europe. As such, there’s something that’s innately reassuring and familiar about them; these are the colours that our medieval ancestors would have worn -except that Psylo has reinvented them. There seems to be a bit of a paradox going on here, as the clothing is a brilliant match with the steel and concrete backgrounds of so much of today’s cities. Psylo’s models sport the clothing against hyper-modern industrial backdrops such as an abandoned airplane or a disused factory, while the clothes themselves often have strange grace notes that have come from way back in the past. A t-shirt is graced with Pali script or the somnolent yet watchful eyes of an Indonesian mythical being, while other items are more mysterious still, with blurry motifs that might have stepped out of some meaningful yet all-but-forgotten dream.

They’re definitely clothes that stand out and suit all kinds of people. The customer age range is quite surprising. The clothes, which you might at first glance think are aimed only at young people, turn out to look good at almost any age. Spend any time at all in the stores and you’ll see this for yourself.

Psylo produces a full range of casual clothing as well as belts, bags, wristbands, shoes and boots. It’s an impressive repertoire and all of it melds well together. In addition, they now produce children’s clothing,

too, which is also quite different from the mainstream. There are no clashing colours, no cute slogans or pictures on the t-shirts – but your children will look great in the Psylo brand.

But what of the people behind the clothing? You might think that the clothing is inspired by music, as there are references to heavy metal and punk in the items. But it turns out that the origins lie not so much with music but with travel. Owner-manager Joel Nagar says that he and his friends were insatiable travellers, and the ideas for the clothes came from being constantly on the road, constantly in new places. They travelled everywhere, from the Amazon, to India and then all over Asia.

And somewhere along all those trails came the idea to have clothing that matched the spirit of those journeys and being alive in a vibrant time. He and his friends, Ami and Shoki, gradually honed the ideas, and then strove to turn them into reality. They knew they didn’t want anything mainstream, but to find a niche amongst people who were nomadic and urban at one and the same time.

The stores in Samui are also unlike all others on the island in that they’re not filled year round with lightweight clothing for the tropics. If it’s winter in Europe then you’ll find winter clothing in the stores, since those who come here to buy are probably going to be travelling. Incidentally there are two stores on the island. The first is on Chaweng Beach Road, just a couple of hundred metres north of Central Festival, while the other is in Central Festival itself, on the ground floor. Both are open from 11:00 am until 11:00 pm, daily. It takes no more than five minutes to walk between the two outlets. Psylo has other stores, though they’re definitely not within walking distance; its other flagships are in London, Bali, Mexico and they also have a distribution centre in Toronto, Canada. As you can see, they’re very international. The clothes themselves are mostly produced in Bali, where they come from Psylo’s own factory, which is run by Balinese staff. Psylo believes that fair and balanced employment relations are important, both for the employees themselves and the company. According to Psylo’s website, employees are paid above the average local salary, and their working conditions are fair, regulated and always above board. You can be sure that the products aren’t coming out of a sweatshop. The idea is to create a happy environment where employees stay for years.

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Similarly Psylo aims to take the utmost care of the environment, and to this end guarantee that wherever possible, fabrics are natural, with the emphasis on cotton, rayon and sometimes silk. Interestingly they recycle leftover fabrics, and have even created special designs using mere scraps. They also filter their water-based dyes so as to make them more ready for sewage treatment. It’s an on-going process, and Psylo are aiming to bring in organic fabrics and dyes. For them this will be the next step in making their production as ecological as possible.

You might think with so much attention to detail and to correct procedures that the clothing would be out of reach of most people’s budgets.

Refreshingly, this isn’t the case at all. You’ll find that everything in the stores is excellent value for money, and on par with other independent, non-mainstream brands elsewhere. There are no sky-high prices at all.

Psylo’s team never comes across as predatory, and it’s easy to see that these people are genuinely passionate about what they do. Check out the videos that are playing in the stores, and you’ll see that amongst the fashion clips there’s also footage showing the factory in Bali. You’ll see that there’s a totally professional atmosphere that underpins the enterprise.

Visiting Psylo is definitely an interesting experience. There’s no pressure to buy anything and the feel of the stores is welcoming and friendly.

Much like the clothing itself, Psylo is confident in presenting its products, and so you’re welcome to browse and just relax here. The atmosphere in the stores is underpinned by fine music, while the gallery-like decor syncs with Psylo’s vibe of being earthy yet urban. Perhaps when you step outside the stores again, and look at the clothes people on the street are wearing, you’ll realize that much of it appears to be disquietingly samey.

Psylo celebrates standing out and being who you are – and it’s therefore bound to be a refreshing experience to wear this brand.

Dimitri Waring

___________________________________________________________ For further information, telephone 0 7725 6157 (Chaweng Beach), 0 7741 0452 (Central Festival) or 0 879 288 748. www.psylofashion.com

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BOUTIQUE RESORT KOH SAMUI

The Dining Room is open Monday to Saturday for dinner, closed Sunday The Bistro is open every day for lunch and dinner

Christmas Eve Gala Dinner starts with complementary cocktails at 6.20pm - bookings only

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MANY HAPPY RETURNS On December 5th, Thais celebrate the birthday of His Majesty the King

His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great (Rama IX) is the world’s longest reigning monarch. He unites the Thais no matter who they are or what their station in life. If you are in Thailand on his birthday it’s guaranteed that you’ll see something of the celebrations; there are firework displays, exhibitions featuring His Majesty’s life and work, and just about everywhere large pictures of the King on display.

His Majesty the King was born in a Cambridge, Massachusetts hospital on the 5th of December, 1927. And this year the people of Thailand will celebrate His 88th birthday.

At His Majesty the King’s coronation he vowed, “We will reign with righteousness for the benefit and happiness of the Siamese people.”

It is a commitment that he has maintained throughout his reign. He has been particularly involved in environmental issues, focusing on the lives of those at a disadvantage and those ravaged by the forces of Mother nature, and he has always been there to give aid and advice to those most in need. His Majesty has established six Royal Development Study Centres, also known as ‘Living Museums’ throughout Thailand, studying and researching solutions to problems such as soil erosion, deforestation and irrigation. His aim has always been to better the lives of farmers by giving them the tools to be self-sufficient, focusing on practical and highly effective methods, and only using costly modern technology as a last resort. To solve the problem of soil erosion he suggested growing vetiver grass as a cheap and simple solution for the farmers.

Drought is also a problem for Thai farmers, to which end His Majesty developed a rain-making technique that earned him a patent. It is a process that involves seeding a cloud with chemicals to trigger rainfall. The technique is particularly successful in that it can precisely target areas where the rain is to fall. Popular images of His Majesty often depict him crouching down in a muddy field studying charts and graphs while surrounded by local villagers who are voicing their concerns to him.

This genuine interest is greatly appreciated among the Thais, and his genius in problem solving and humanitarian efforts has not only earned him great national respect but also respect in the global community, affording him international awards, notably from the International Erosion Control Association and the World Bank in 1993, for his use of vetiver grass and water conservation.

In 2007, His Majesty received the first Norman E Borlaugh World Food Prize Medallion in recognition of his outstanding humanitarian service in alleviating starvation and poverty. He also received the first United Nations Human Development Lifetime Achievement Award, in 2006. At which time the then UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan described His Majesty as the world’s ‘Development King’ and went on to say, “His Majesty has reached out to the poorest and the most vulnerable people of Thailand, listened to their problems and empowered them to take their lives into their own hands.”

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The Thais look upon their King not as just the sovereign but as the father of the nation, who has improved the lives of many, and given dignity to the people of Thailand. His Majesty has established schools in rural and remote areas that once lacked any formal education. On his birthday, in 1995, His Majesty launched The Distance Learning Foundation, bringing teachers via television into the home and classroom. It now reaches thousands of schools nationwide, as well as thousands in neighbouring countries such as Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia.

The Thai people deeply respect His Majesty’s down-to-earth attitude. Again the images of The King in everyday plain clothes, travelling to every corner of Thailand come to mind. The simplicity in which he lives is what stands out for people who have had the privilege to visit one of his palaces. At Klaikangwol Palace in Hua Hin, instead of having ornamental gardens he turned over the flower beds to the local Klaikangwol School for the children to grow vegetables. In 2002, His Majesty adopted a stray puppy dog as the royal pet dog, rather than a pedigree, naming him Tong Daeng, or Copper. It was a simple action which embodies the tone of His Majesty’s reign and life, to care for those unfortunate in society and to help them help themselves. Later that same year His Majesty wrote ‘The Story of Tong Daeng’ and it instantly became a bestseller, selling 200,000 copies in one day. His Majesty particularly focused on Copper’s loyalty, kindness and humble qualities and expressed his wish that more people would adopt stray dogs.

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His Majesty’s contributions to the improvement of the lives of his people go far beyond what would be required of any monarch. His Rajaprachanukroh Foundation was among the first organisations to reach the 2004 tsunami victims, especially orphaned children. And in 2005, when drought hit Thailand, His Majesty oversaw relief and rain-making operations. His charities and foundations are widespread throughout Thailand. It is estimated that some 2,000 Royal Projects have been initiated by His Majesty aimed at improving the lives of the Thai people.

From an early age His Majesty took a keen interest in music, from the piano and woodwind instruments and classical music to the clarinet and saxophone and jazz music. His Majesty is also an accomplished composer and has composed many pieces for his people to enjoy, such as one piece called ‘Smiles’ for members of the School for the Blind. Other pieces he allows to be used to raise funds for charities. One such example is when his piece, ‘Love at Sundown’ was performed at a fund-raising concert for the Anti-Tuberculosis Society of Thailand.

His Majesty is a gifted composer, musician, writer and skilful yachtsman, winning a gold medal at the 4th South East Asian Games. He is an outstanding humanitarian, teacher and to his people, most of all, he is a deeply loved and respected father.

Should you go into any Thai House, whatever the social status of those that live there, you are likely to find one or more images of The King prominently displayed, some perhaps enshrined. In times of personal distress or great upheaval it is to the King and his benevolent and calming presence that Thais will turn. We would like to extend our humblest wishes for a most happy 88th birthday.

Natalie Hughes

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SPOILED FOR CHOICE Nature Art has thousands of semi-precious stones, and a treasure trove of jewellery on offer. www.samuiholiday.com l 73

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Holidays in the sun are all about sparkling sea and glittering sands, and any shopping’s almost expected to lag way behind when it comes to pizzazz. Even more so when it comes to jewellery. You might expect, at best, a few good finds, if you look hard enough and long enough, that is. It’s almost as if beautiful holiday destinations can get away with having tacky shops. But if you’re on Samui that cliché isn’t true. Here you can find great quality and do your shopping in comfortable surroundings. And if it’s jewellery or semi-precious stones you’re looking for, there’s no need to jet up to Bangkok, as you can find them right here on the island.

Nature Art Gallery prides itself on having one of the most opulentlooking showrooms on Samui. The floor and ceiling are made of highly polished wood, and you can tell as soon as you walk in to the store that a lot of love and care has been poured into making the store a wonderful place to browse. There are literally thousands of artefacts here, so don’t be surprised if time seems to fly by, and you’ve spent a while longer in Nature Art Gallery than you might have thought. Gold and silver figure prominently, as well as precious and semi-precious stones. plus there’s a selection of hand-made leather bags, belts and other accessories.

Staff are on hand, and all speak good English, so if you need any help, they’ll be able to offer advice or information. They’re also discreet and don’t hover centimetres behind you, so there’s never any pressure to buy anything. Everything is clearly and beautifully presented, and you’ll find that the prices are all very reasonable. You

can pick up a semi-precious stone or some jewellery for as little as 200 baht. There’s a whole array of prices, so there’s always something you’ll find that looks beautiful and suits your budget.

Nature Art Gallery stocks a spectrum of stones, rocks and minerals, and many of these are sold loose, allowing you to create your own jewellery or keep as individual items. Many have properties that are said to influence the person who wears or carries the stone. You’re encouraged to pick up the stones and feel their energies for yourself.

Sceptical? Just try and see what happens; you may well feel a difference between the various stones, and might even find quite a few that make you feel positive or give you a sense of wellbeing.

Many of the stones are made into jewellery, and end up as miniature works of art in themselves. You’ll find plenty on display, and it may take some time before you settle on something that you like, as there is so much choice. Just to take an example; if you’re looking for earrings, there are hundreds on display, all with varying motifs. Many come in the shape of an animal, such as snakes, dragons and fish, while others might be abstract geometrical shapes made of glass or stainless steel.

Similarly, rings come in many different designs. Maybe you’d like one that shows a flower opening, or a leaf that seems to have come to rest on the ring, or a tiny lizard frozen in mid-scamper? Needless to say there are also pendants, bracelets and necklaces – a whole gamut of excellence. You can also find items in leather, as well as a range of stingray skin products; you’ll find purses and bracelets made of stingray and dyed a variety of pastel hues.

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They produce the vast majority of the jewellery that you’ll find in the store themselves. And as such, they’re in control of the items, their range and the design, right down to the tiniest details. You can be sure of the quality of the goods, and the fact that they’ll be longlasting. The pieces that you buy are unique and not mass-produced; these are creations that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

They also have a few artisans who work for them from abroad, notably the skilled designer Bat Ami, who sends work over from her native Israel. People love her jewellery and you’ll always find it stocked at Nature Art. But what if you’d like something made up especially? Something that isn’t in the store? This is no problem at all, thanks to Nature Art’s in-house designers. And in-house means just that, as in they’re right there, on the second floor to be precise. So you can chat to them and they can create jewellery from scratch, just for you. Recently Rajendra Bishwokarma joined them, and has been producing some amazing designs in gold, silver and other materials. He’s able to work with just about every kind of stone or metal, and depending on what you’d like, the work can be finished in as little as a few hours, though for extremely complex pieces up to a month may be needed.

Nature Art Gallery is open daily from 10:00 am until midnight, and you’ll find it on Chaweng Beach Road opposite the southern exit of

Central Festival. Incidentally, there’s also a branch of Nature Art Gallery on the second floor of Central Festival itself, as well as two more in Haad Rin on neighbouring Koh Pha-Ngan. The stores are immensely popular with holidaymakers as well as residents.

One of the reasons we like to collect rings, necklaces and all manner of accessories is that each piece of jewellery, once it’s been worn for a while becomes deeply personal and has its own story to tell. When you walk into Nature Art Gallery you’ll find yourself in a place filled with treasures, all waiting to be chosen and to play a part in their owners’ lives. Everything that you see inside the showroom will eventually end up belonging to someone – no matter if that person has bought it for themselves or as a gift for a loved one. And since everything here is made to last, these same treasures will still be around for many, many years to come.

Dimitri Waring

_______________________________________________________ For further information, telephone 0 7742 2594. www.thailand-jewelry.com

This is the original health destination on Koh Samui offering only the best Vegetarian, Raw and Healthy Thai Food. Listed as one of the 50 best restaurants in the world.

Over 17 years serving the freshest mouthwatering healthy food.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Daily @ both locations 7:00 am until 9:30 pm.

Radiance is a part of The Spa Resorts.

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EDUCATING THE MIND, NURTURING THE SOUL SCL International School has overcome major challenges to offer its children a better education.

Just how much can you accomplish given a decade or so? While some people and some schools are content to coast through the years, others forge ahead, even when they face tough challenges that would daunt most of us. SCL International School’s story exemplifies a winning spirit; a school that started in obscurity but is now a major venue for the island’s students.

Back in 2004, an old wooden house behind a temple marked the beginnings of the school.

It couldn’t really have been any smaller or humbler; it had just two pupils. Very soon, more joined them, and due to the high quality of the teaching, word got round the local area and still more children came. Eventually a new setting was needed because of the number of students, and the school moved to much larger premises. Fast forward to 2015, and you’ll find that the same school is still in operation, but with even more students.

And a few months ago, just over a decade since the school started, SCL moved again to still larger and better premises. It’s now located on the ring-road just a few doors up from Lamai Post Office. You’ll find a spacious setting with a sports area, all of it ready to welcome new children. The size of the land is much bigger, so there’s more play space for students. You’ll also find two beautiful old-style teak houses that are used for the younger children, who love them for their storybook appearance. The school also has plans to build 12 new classrooms, a gym and turn the land directly behind the property into more play areas and an organic farm.

Moving the school was an enormous challenge. The new location was only a partial match for what Emma Dyas, the owner and director, wanted. The buildings, most of which had been residential, all had to be renovated and an extension built in order for the match to completely dovetail with her dream for the new setting. Anyone who’s ever moved house and had to fix up the new home will understand; but this is an entire school, with well over a hundred students and teachers – so the work required was on a much greater scale. Emma and her team managed to complete everything, and from the first day of re-opening the school was flourishing.

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Sometimes, of course, it isn’t just students who’re facing upheaval of the most intense kind; it can be the staff, too.

Unfortunately, round this time, a tragic event took place which was personally devastating to Emma, the teachers and the children. Kim Corbett, the head of secondary school and secondary English teacher, died following an operation in Bangkok. For three years she had battled with cancer. The operation was to hopefully safeguard her from future recurrence, but following the procedure she suffered a lung embolism. The sudden news was naturally the biggest shock to everyone, not least to Emma, her best friend. Says Emma, “I was immensely saddened by her death. We all were. Kim was very much a part of the school, and life can never be the same again. The parents, too, are also affected by her death; they cared for her very much, and in ways that were practical, too. When Kim’s insurance company refused to pay for more treatment, it was the parents and the Samui community who stepped in and donated money for her. Because of them, she lived a longer life. It goes without saying that myself and the school will never be able to thank them enough for what they did, and for just being there when they were needed.”

The school’s parents are very much involved, as you can see, with what’s going on and show great solidarity. The wider community and local government are also interested in SCL’s aims and ideas. Currently Emma has further plans, which she admits will be a challenge to implement. “As far

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as possible, we want this to be an eco-school,” she says. “What that means is that we’ll aim to use solar and wind power and natural resources and be environmentally responsible. We don’t know yet if we can reach 100% self-sufficiency, but ideally, I’d like the school one day to be completely off the grid and be able to supply all its own electricity. We plan to have an organic farm where children will grow their own fruit and vegetables. The idea is that children will learn self-sufficiency and that energy is to be conserved.”

As you can see from this, SCL isn’t your average school. It’s not just the environment that’s considered important, but the individual child as well. With a school like this, education isn’t simply a question of teaching academic subjects; the approach is far more holistic. It’s part of the school’s philosophy, and it’s a very practical one; each child is considered a person, and not a container which needs to be filled with academic subjects.

Says Emma, “Indeed, this is a place of learning, and we have very high academic standards – for example, everyone passed their IGCSEs (International General Certificate of Secondary Education). But at the same time, it’s essential that children aren’t pressured. We want children to enjoy themselves. Having a stressed child doesn’t work on any level; if a child is relaxed, he or she will perform better academically. The approach works and is good all round. Children are individuals: each has their different personality, different needs and different approaches to almost everything. So we cater for the whole child.”

HANSAR SAMUI

101/27-28 Moo 1, Bophut Koh Samui 84320 Thailand +66 77 245 511 | www.hansarsamui.com

The school is proud of its teachers, each of whom is a dedicated professional. They bring new ideas to the classrooms, and sometimes unexpected ones. For example, SCL teaches Spanish, thanks to there being a teacher of Spanish nationality there.

The school also has its own counsellor, Poonam, who holds an MA in Psychology/Counselling, and Special Needs teachers, Sophie and Kyle, so they can look after children who are experiencing problems or who have learning difficulties. “The work they’re doing is vital,” says Emma, “and can make the most enormous differences in a child’s life.” She cites the case of two different children who faced overwhelming challenges. “One of them had never spoken; the other would only repeat back what people said to him. What happened was amazing: over time, both of them learned to speak. This was thanks to the combined efforts of our Support for Learning team’s work.”

As you can see, SCL International School has an approach that is refreshingly different. It’s a place where children love to come to learn, and there’s vibrancy about the way the curriculum is taught that’s lacking, alas, in all too many of the world’s schools.

Dimitri Waring

_________________________________________________________ For further information, telephone Emma Dyas on 0 810 910 714. www.sclinternationalschool.com

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Baan Haad Ngam Boutique Resort & Spa 154 Moo 2, Chaweng Beach, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320 Tel: +66 77 231 500 Mob: +66 81 751 6073 Fax: +66 77 231 520 Email: info@baanhaadngam.com, booking@baanhaadngam.com, www.baanhaadngam.com

Romantic views, soothing sounds and classic Italian fare with a modern approach combine to please the most discerning diner.

Olivio - a must for visitors and locals alike.

Olivio ~ beachfront at Baan Haad Ngam Boutique Resort Chaweng Beach.

Free round trip transfer from Chaweng, Bophut and Choeng Mon. For reservation please call 0 7723 1500

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CENTRAL FESTIVAL SPECIAL Chaweng’s Central Festival shopping centre is not only tip-top, but it’s low-key too!

A couple of years ago, an old friend of mine came to Samui. It was his first time here. We’d been mailing each other back and forth, and I’d been trying to warn him in advance. Trying to prepare him for a modern Samui.

Trying to gently pave the way for all the changes. The fast food joints and discos. The sports pubs and bistros, and construction everywhere you look.

I met him when he arrived, then gave him a few days to settle in. And then, later, when meeting up, the first thing he yelled at me was – “This place is a dream! I was expecting downtown Miami, but Samui is just about as lovely as it gets!”

You see – Samui is special. Just look at the other tourist centres in Thailand.

They’re all big, busy, full-on cities. But Samui isn’t. It’s a small island with a flat bit around the edge and a mountain in the middle. And because of this it will never be a proper ‘city’. And that means no highways, no high rise blocks – and little old wooden houses and ancient fisher-folks forever mixed in along with 5-star fantasies and 15-bedroom villas.

And that’s what makes Central Festival Samui shopping centre special, too.

Slap a big-city 5-floor concrete mall down on Samui and that’s a grade-one blot on the landscape. But it didn’t happen. CPN Property Development & Investment is one of the nation’s biggest developers (being the company behind the ‘Centara’ hospitality brand, Family Mart, and others), and they took several years to work out an ethos for their planned development on Samui. The result: their award-winning Samui centre. It’s unique and has been thoughtfully and stylishly designed and laid-out to blend into its island setting.

And, boy, has it all been cleverly put together! It actually takes up 30 acres (close to 200,000 square metres) of prime central Chaweng real estate – in itself a huge planning and purchasing feat – but it’s only on two stories to match its surroundings. Effectively, it’s a huge bent strip, with massive, airy spaces in the middle and shop units on either side. Here and there you’ll see full-size palms and greenery, and in places these are rooted right down into the enormous open basement; in one stroke this lower level solved the previously abysmal prospect of trying to find parking in Chaweng.

There are two ways in: right off Chaweng Beach Road via a big open performance area, and more directly from the north end of the road along Chaweng Lake. What’s on offer divides neatly into four categories; the idea was to group each of these together, but that didn’t work out exactly as planned! Suffice it to say that if you want to eat or drink then Tops Supermarket and the Thai food court is at one end, but you’ll need to go to the opposite end to find the Euro-style coffee shops, restaurants and bistros.

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But, above Tops and the lakeside entrance and car park, on the first floor is the health and well-being section, with Bangkok Samui Hospital’s Clinic featuring prominently in the upper corner position. Here you’ll find spas, chemists (pharmacies), beauty shops and hairdressers. And you’ll also come across The Spa Center, too.

Following the walkway you’ll swing towards the other extreme with the fun-palace area – take your pick from the cross-Hollywood-titled ‘Pirates of the Marioland’ or pop next door to jolt your coccyx at the thrills and spills of XD Theatre.

And it’s worth noting that right next to this is a stairway which runs down to the ground floor. This is where you can park the kids and keep them happy while some of the family go shopping – it’s a lovely little play area with rides, and a sand pit with a slide and a climber. No concrete, only sand and plastic; much safer than some places I could mention. And, talking of entertainment, the recent addition of the Major Cineplex theatre is a huge bonus, being so centrally located.

The five broad categories of the Samui Central experience are health and beauty, food, shopping, technology and entertainment. And as you meander through towards the central area, up top you’ll be able to resolve all your hi-tech needs with the current telecom and internet providers (True, AIS, DTAC and 3BB), together with the two best discount computer stores on the island, JIB and Banana IT. Plus a bunch of phone shops including Samsung. And in the same section is Powerbuy, a large electrical goods store. And then the actual Central Department Store, on two floors, with an escalator between the two.

Nora Buri SH Sep - Oct 2015

B a r g e & Te r r a c e

In the middle section of the centre it’s shop, shop, shop! Fashion, clothes, bags and shoes – then a clean, bright, Perspex and chrome slot where you’ll find all Thai banks with their international ATM machines.

And then, as you emerge onto the Chaweng Beach Road side of things, it’s eat-your-heart-out time. This is where the up-market foodies hang out; cafes and bistros, Black Canyon and The Coffee Club, several restaurants, and the street-watching of Starbucks on one side with Wine Connection on the other, plus a huge performance area between the two. Central Festival stages monthly events – motor shows, gift festivals, dancing and talent competitions – and in this area there’s a weekly (Sunday) Thai Dancing Carnival. And elsewhere there’s the Saturday Art Market, together with the Walking Street, every Wednesday.

Fine Beachside Dining at The Rice Barge & Terrace Authentic Thai Cuisine Daily A La Carte and Thai Set Dinner No visit to Samui is complete until you have dined at The Rice Barge & Terrace

But, worthy of note for visitors and those on holiday, is the moneysaving Tourist Promo – look out for the signs in participating stores.

You register with the enquiry desk, then go and shop. Then you not only get up to 6% of the VAT refunded, but also extra discounts from participating outletsz – just check in the shop windows as you walk. And what pops out right away is that True are offering one hour’s free Wi-Fi and seven day’s free internet access – once you buy their ‘Tourist Sim’ for the special price of only 299 baht.

All of this, all in one place, right in the very guts of Chaweng.

People travel all the way from Hua Thanon for this! It’s central, it’s Central Festival – and it’s special!

Rob De Wet

Rice Barge & Terrace Nora Buri's Signature Restaurant Chaweng North For Reservation Tel: 0 7791 3555 E-mail: ricebarge@noraburiresort.com www.noraburiresort.com

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A PITCH

FOR HEALTH Samui United Football Academy provides a place for children and youngsters to learn football skills and a lot more.

In medieval Britain, villages played over pitches that ranged across meadows and streams. Now, centuries later, football has almost universal appeal.

Kicking a ball seems to have become part of the human psyche. Watching very young children playing football can be an almost eerie experience; it can seem in many cases that their anatomies and their brains dovetail with football, and that it’s an innate skill, just waiting to be nudged towards development.

Football ingrained in the muscles?

“It certainly seems to be the case,” says Maher Kassar, the owner and manager of Samui United Football Academy, “I’ve seen many small children who have a completely natural way with a football. But it isn’t like walking or running; it’s a learned skill.” He goes on to say that even children who at first seem to have difficulty with the ball learn surprisingly quickly. It really is almost as though it’s in everyone’s blood.

The academy was started by a young Thai-British trainer, Tom. Maher was impressed by what he was doing and was drawn to help. “I wanted to start a football project,” he says, “and getting involved in the academy seemed like a good way to start. They didn’t have a place to play, so this was the first priority: finding a pitch and then building it up from there.”

Maher went on to do both. He was already very familiar with football. He used to play amateur football, and in his family football is taken seriously - his grandfather played for the Lebanese national team. “For a long time, football was his life,” recalls Maher. “He was in boarding school, and the local priest there pushed him towards football – as a child he had a great talent for it.

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Times were hard back then – this was the 1930’s – his parents were in Africa and couldn’t often get back to see him. He grew up around football and it became a way of life. ‘God, family and football,’ was a motto of his. I don’t necessarily agree with that, but football in those times was very different to what it is today. Today it’s a lot more about marketing and so on. Back then, there were definitely principles that have lost ground in today’s world, and I wanted the academy to honour him and the way he lived – and still lives today.” Maher himself grew up in Lebanon until he was eight years old, when the family moved to Paris. He speaks French like a native, and he’s virtually bilingual in English. He came to Samui, firstly on holiday, while he was living in China, but now has settled here permanently. If he’s more leisured nowadays, then it shows as a wiry athleticism; here is someone who lives and breathes sport, and who is now able to help others develop their own abilities.

At the academy the focus is on coaching children and teenagers, and developing their football skills across the board. There are now five coaches; they’re from different backgrounds, some from Thai coaching schools, while others are former players. The academy also arranges friendly matches, so everyone can see in practise what they’ve been learning; they play against other teams on the island. There are also occasional tournaments that require travelling away.

Maher emphasizes that the academy isn’t a school, but certainly aims to impart values to the children and teenagers who attend. Respect plays a big part: respect for the other players and the trainers. A tricky point to balance in any institution that teaches sports of any kind is the degree of competitiveness versus the fun angle. Maher believes the academy has struck the right balance so that its pupils really enjoy themselves and at the same time are encouraged to put the very best efforts into playing the game, and seeking to better their performances. “We aim to offer a space for everyone,” says Maher. “To do that, we have taken a very familyoriented stance. Parents should be involved and we need their input.

Their children are very attached to the club, and come here both to play and just to hang out as well. You know, when I came to Samui I heard the same thing from many youngsters who’d moved to Samui.

At first they were very excited to arrive on the island. They loved it.

But soon they saw that there was actually very little to do, apart from tourist things. With the academy we want to offer them a solution.”

The children and the trainers at the academy come from an astonishing variety of countries. Thailand, Cambodia, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Italy, France, Israel and Britain – and of course, new members are also joining as the academy becomes more well-known. It goes without saying that both boys and girls are welcome to join. Maher is hoping more girls will join as currently there’s only one girls’ team.

Samui United Football Academy is located on the ring-road in Chaweng, right opposite the Caltex petro station, about two kilometres south of Tesco-Lotus. The pitch is behind the clothing shop that fronts the road, and has a clubhouse with changing rooms and showers.

With reasonable fees and sound judgement on the part of the trainers and organizers, the academy offers an alternative to listless days for the island’s children and teenagers.

Fine Beachfront Dining serving Thai, Seafood & International Cuisine.

Dimitri Waring

_________________________________________________________ For further information, telephone 0 898 745 580 or email samuiunited2010@hotmail.com

Chaweng Beach Road Chaweng North Tel: 0 7742 9400 Fax: 0 7742 9498 E-mail: reservation@norabeachresort.com www.norabeachresort.com

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SEQUEL IN PROGRESS! The height of Samui chic is being stirred but unshaken – The Library becomes cooler than ever.

Either you’ve got it or you haven’t. Style. Flair. Creativity. It’s the easiest thing in the world to follow the fashion, to copy a trend. But to be a shooting star in a dimly-glimmering sky is a rare thing indeed. The Library isn’t a library, it’s a concept. And it’s also a resort, right in the middle of Chaweng Beach.

It’s been described in many ways – refined, post-modern, minimalist. But none of what’s been said so far even comes close to touching the sheer vitality of the place. Usually, when you take away the fusses and frills of décor, it’s a process of reduction, and you end up with uncomfortably less than before. But here, at The Library, the crisp geometry of the architecture, the big wide spaces and the serenity of the plain surfaces only add to its presence.

The history of the resort, though rooted in the hippy era of peace and love, took a unique twist along the way. It was at one time a traditional Samui thatched-roof bungalow resort, and handed down from father to son. But the son, Khun Pang, was schooled in Bangkok and educated abroad, and he returned with an outlook that was considerably broader than tradition usually dictates. The Library opened its doors in 2006, and did a lot more than just raise eyebrows. This was more than merely clean styling. The thinking and the visual concepts that ran throughout were unique on Samui, and quite possibly in all of Thailand.

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Strolling through Chaweng, it’s more than likely you won’t even notice the resort. The entrance is deliberately understated, and denoted solely by a white sculpture of a stylised figure reading a book. Although The Library takes up an enviable chunk of prime beachfront real estate, this is all hidden from view, and accessed only by a narrow bamboo-clad passage to one side. (But right out on the street, seemingly unrelated to The Library, is its main public interface, ‘Drink Gallery’. Within this huge 2-floor cube of glass are hidden some of the most tantalising eating on the island, not to mention the cutting-edge designer cocktails.)

But it’s only once you’ve wandered into the resort proper that you’ll be struck by the reality. Here, they haven’t tried to maximise profits by cramming its space full of accommodation. Instead, an enormous swathe of green lawn runs straight towards the sea. It’s as if you’ve walked into a city park somewhere. Leafy trees break up the space.

There’s a wooden walkway right down through the middle. And

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fringing either edge, spaced apart, are the simple white cuboids of the accommodation. It’s all just too calm and natural to be surprising, despite the extravagantly positive use of empty space as a design element. And then you’ll notice the rectangle of the swimming pool and get your first jolt – it’s bright crimson.

The studios and suites are lavishly fitted and equipped, but retain the ethos of simplicity throughout. Everything is state of the art, from the ‘décor’ of a four foot-square multi-mood programmable light box on the wall, to the 42-inch plasma TV, the iMac computer and iPod Touch, and the remote-controlled floor-to-ceiling blinds that glide up and down at the touch of a button. There are a number of single units (‘Smart Studios’) on the upper floors, although the majority of the accommodation is of a generous 76 square metres and geared towards couples. Rounding off the accommodation, there’s a huge 2-bedroom suite of 156 square metres, ideal for families. There are 13 such blocks, each of them known

as a ‘page’ (page 1, page 2 and so on) with the exception of the 13th block, which is simply known as ‘Bookmark’.

But there is one more ‘page’ at The Library. ‘The Page’ is also the name of the resort’s very laid-back fine-dining restaurant. The décor is appropriately simple, and the furniture a rectilinear essay in black and white with highlights of red. The cuisine here will certainly make an impression in terms of gastronomic flair and presentation – it’s right up there with the best 5-star fare. The to-die-for à la carte menu comes to you courtesy of Chef Din – otherwise known as Khun Thanakrit Karaket.

And the real Wagyu beef is an experience in itself. Talking of which . . .

The Library is one of the very few resorts that is happy to let their guests decide where to go for their Christmas meal, meaning that it’s not a compulsory buy-in. But, believe me, you’d better book, as none of them will want to go outside to eat!

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On the eve of Christmas, on the 24th, they’re serving a 4-course Christmas Dinner, with extras. And this includes Warmed Scallop Carpaccio with Mixed Sautéed Mushrooms and Lemon Beurre Blanc. And also the Signature Wagyu Beef complemented by fresh local ingredients including Stir-Fried Pak Lieng, Roasted Coconut, and Deep-fried Pak Kood. At the time of writing the menu has yet to be finalised, but will undoubtedly be a splendid read.

However, it’s coming up to the 10th birthday of The Library.

And there are lots of very secretive things going on, including a completely new project that is still under wraps. Already the existing restaurant has been re-designed and expanded, with whispers of a complete remodelling later, to include reclining sea-view loungers. Plus there’s going to be an ongoing 10-month series of events, one for each year of the resort’s life, highlighting some of Bangkok’s leading artists, musicians and designers. And that’s the reason why, on their website, the only hints you’ll get come under the heading – ‘Sequel in Progress’!

Rob De Wet

_______________________________________________________ For reservations or further information, telephone 0 7742 2767. www.thelibrary.co.th

KHAO SOK

The Cliff and River Jungle Resort

Come and Relax with us at The Cliff and River Jungle Resort in magnificent Khao Sok. Enjoy the natural beauty and fresh air at this Scenic Riverside location.

Sightseeing Info - Canoeing - International Restaurant Luxury Recreation Facilities - Elephant Trekking

for more information and reservation please call 0 872 718 787, 0 812 721 221, 0 7791 3050 Fax. 0 7791 3099 www.thecliffandriver.com

P. CHAWENG GUEST HOUSE

100 ISLANDS RESORT

Located at the end of Soi Colibri, opposite Centara Grand Beach Resort.

Thai owned and managed, offering the beauty of Thai style architecture combined with European comforts.

The first boutique hotel in Suratthani.

Reasonably priced with friendly service and a family atmosphere. Relax by the pool or ease your tensions at the luxurious spa.

Recommended by Lonely Planet

Tel.: 0 7723 0684

Tel.: 0 7720 1150-8

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SHORT CUTS Combine your holiday on Samui with cosmetic surgery for a beautiful new you.

Most people are unaware that one of Samui’s assets is its medical expertise in cosmetic surgery. While some holidaymakers are busy soaking up the sun, others are on the way to the dentist’s chair or even the operating theatre. What’s going on, you might ask? Can’t they get everything done at home? Why come to Thailand?

But just spend a few minutes on-line Googling up ‘medical tourism’ and you’ll see that it’s very common to go this far afield for cosmetic surgery. Thailand has established itself as one of the main go-to places for all sorts of medical treatment. Some people come here because they know they can get the same operation as at home, but at a fraction of the price. While others want to combine their hospital visits with recuperation time in a warm, welcoming country.

So how can you improve your looks while you’re on holiday on Samui? Many different treatments are available, according to Dr Chalermkit Supalertmongkonchai, who is both a cosmetic and plastic surgeon. “There’s quite a lot you can do, even on a fairly short vacation,” he says. “On Samui you can opt for breast augmentation and reduction, as well as breast lifting. Ears can be corrected, so can noses, and you can also do cosmetic surgery on the upper and lower eyelids – blepharoplasty. Tummy tucks, liposuction, and facial work are also possible.” One thing, he says, that Samui doesn’t yet offer is hair transplants. For these, you’ll need to go to Bangkok, where dedicated teams can do the work.

It is possible to just walk in and see a doctor and set up your surgery, but most people set up everything before they arrive. This makes sense. You can check prices, see what’s available and see if the surgeon of your choice is available during your holiday. Naturally, you also have to be on Samui long enough to be able to complete the treatments you’ve chosen and to recuperate.

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This also applies to dentistry, the most common form of cosmetic treatment on Samui. It’s very important to make contact with your dentist on Samui before you come if you need anything more complicated than fillings. If you need to do a root canal treatment, you might well be advised to do this at home as the entire procedure can take a few weeks.

A good idea is to get a panoramic x-ray made. This shows your entire set of teeth, top and bottom, and is an amazingly good diagnostic aid for any dentist. You can email your dentist the x-ray and let them know when your holiday starts and finishes. The dentist can then get a good idea of what can be done in the time frame, as well as give you a fairly accurate estimate of how much it’s all going to cost. Dentists are used to working around patients’ timetables. There’s a lot that can be done in just a week, and a fortnight opens a whole new window of possibilities.

Some dental patients, especially from Australia, make several trips per year to Samui, thereby allowing the dentist to continue treatments. Not everyone can do this, of course. Quicker treatments include veneers – these will improve your smile – and teeth whitening, which can be done in a couple of hours.

Understandably, most people seek medical treatment in their own country rather than go abroad. Thailand appeals because it’s an exotic place to be, but its unfamiliarity means that people tend to worry about the treatment they’re seeking. Is it going to be safe, painless and effective?

They need not fear. Thailand has a cachet for medical excellence with over a million patients coming here from all over the world each year, some seeking cosmetic treatments, while others are looking for medical procedures to help them improve their health.

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Another fear is communication between doctor and patient. Thai doctors tend to speak good English, and as long as the patient has a sufficiently good command of English, there should be no misunderstandings. Major hospitals also have interpreters and translators available and so, if you’re a speaker of French, German or Russian, you can even communicate in your own language.

Samui has four international hospitals in addition to its government hospital. Those living here are spoilt for choice; they know they’re lucky. Where else would you find so many health providers on a small island? The international hospitals were originally set up to help holidaymakers from abroad who’d fallen sick or who’d had accidents. They offer health checks and other services ideal for people who’re only here for limited periods of time. Bangkok Hospital Samui currently offers the greatest variety of cosmetic procedures. You can also have minor procedures done in small privately-run clinics and beauty centres that are now beginning to appear on Samui. Increasingly popular, you can simply drop in for an estimate and a look at what’s on offer.

Treatments in Thailand are as professional as they would be in the West, and the fees are much lower. Most patients find that being on holiday tends to take the edge off any unpleasantness associated with operations. Once your procedure is done, you can rest by the poolside, and you’ll find that recuperation time feels extraordinarily relaxing. And many prefer being away from home in any case – they naturally don’t want to draw attention to themselves while getting over medical procedures. And when the bandages come off, voilà, it’s a new you that’s going to be jetting home.

Dimitri Waring

Our Siam Ten Senses Treatment focuses on the ten main senses in human body.

Restoring body systems and improving the balance.

Green Resort Green Spa Detoxifying and Slimming Program Healthy Thai Restaurant Natural Wing Health Spa & Resort 11/5 Moo 6, Maenam, Koh Samui, Thailand Tel: 0 7760 2111, 0 7760 2112 Fax: 0 7744 7243 Mobile: 0 819 682 796 Email: info@naturalwing.com, www.naturalwing.com

SIP, PAIR, INDULGE, WATCH W Retreat Koh Samui continues to expand the mind and dazzle the senses.

Once upon a time, 5-star was 5-star. You knew exactly what to expect.

Okay, some places had more marble and gold leaf than others. But you found your brand name and stayed with it. And it didn’t matter if you were in Transylvania or Tennessee, the style, the furnishings and the service would be the same. Familiar, reassuring and predictable. But today things have changed. You don’t need to be old anymore to enjoy the finer things in life. And the meaning of ‘quality’ has shifted too. Back then, it meant the same furniture and carpets wherever you went. But now it’s more about the atmosphere. It’s about the vibe and the whole experience; it’s a lifestyle event.

‘W’ is one of those forward-thinking brands that exemplify this. Each of the nearly 50 luxurious W getaways are part of the Starwood Hotels and Resorts group. And each of the very stylish resorts is individually designed to echo and reflect the local character of their environment.

This, together with some very up-to-the-minute artwork and design. In the case of Samui’s own W Retreat, this means some breath-taking spatial games that will bring you to a halt and make you look twice. And nowhere more so than the stunning showpiece infinity pool that you’ll encounter as soon as you come through the reception area.

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Another emphasis that’s shifted dramatically in recent years concerns accessibility. Back in the day, top hotels boasted of their exclusiveness – until someone caught on to the fact that excluding potential guests is really not the way to go! And so for a non-resident, a visitor, to W Samui, there is a wide spectrum of elements to indulge in and enjoy.

Central to this engagement is eating and drinking: W Samui has no fewer than three bars and three restaurants. WOOBAR is the signature W bar that’s found in all the resorts, and here it’s located on the top level, next to that wondrous infinity pool, with a simply stunning vista across the bay.

Another unique feature of the resort is the geography of the place. This is one of the very few beach-strips that isn’t straight; the whole resort is curved around a little spur of beach land that nudges out into the sea, giving it an instant feeling of both cosiness and privacy. Down here,

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you’ll find SIP, the hugely stylish beach bar, with a combination of low recliners and tropical hardwood furniture. And close to this are two tiptop eateries. The first is the resort’s Beach Grill that is open daily from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. And every Saturday there’s a three-course spread with an all-you-can-eat BBQ-fest, running from 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm. It’s notably chilled here, an idyllic spot, and also eminently reasonable on the pocket at just 950 baht per person.

But nearby, and sitting back towards the body of the resort, is probably one of the most exciting restaurants on the island – Namu. To say this is ‘Japanese’ is simplistic and doesn’t in any way do it justice. This is a pinnacle of evening fine dining, with internationally-renowned Koreanborn chef, Sin Keun Choi (SK), running the kitchen. Truly this is both ambience and cuisine to die for. But, additionally, every month Chef SK is offering an extreme pairing event. This is a 5-course tasting menu with

paired . . . beverages. I had to pause there, as this is something of a ‘first’. Instead of doing it the easy way, beginning with an existing dish and then searching for a ready-made wine to complement it, he’s going at it the other way round.

Chef SK is beginning with some really interesting drinks – and then slowly and carefully tailoring elements of the cuisine together to create a dish that enhances and complements the drink. For instance, ‘Konro Grill Hokkaido Scallop with Fois Gras’ is matched with ‘Orange and Vanilla Infused Sake’. Or ‘Stir Fried Seafood Udon with Chili Beans’ combined together with ‘Ozeki Draft Nama Chozo, Yuzu and Chili’. Each of these monthly meld events is titled ‘Chemistry’, as this cutting-edge chef finely gauges the chemistry of tastebud tantalisation with the subtlest balances of contrasting and harmonising tastes and aftertastes.

But that’s not all. One of the most enigmatic personalities in the arena of craft beers has bestowed a rare honour on W Samui. The legendary Danish avant-garde brewers of Mikkeller have created a custom-brewed beer just for the resort. Garth Welsh, Director Culinary & Service, describes it as “. . . a light and refreshing beer, just perfect for the tropics, with the fragrance of kaffir lime leaf and only a hint of ginger.” In fact, down on the beach at SIP, there are no fewer than 40 different craft beers and ciders, including beers made with grappa or champagne, and even a stout beer that’s been multi-distilled into a rum. “Over the last few years the traditional barriers between beer, wine, cocktails and spirits have been pulled apart,” Garth continued. “I’m all for experimenting, and looking with fresh eyes at new developments. And these exciting new alcoholic drinks are just crying out to be sensitively paired with food that’s equally as creative and innovative.”

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W Samui is continually running all sorts of tasters, teasers and specials; guests from outside are always welcome, and full details are updated on their ever-evolving Facebook page. But for a completely different taste of W Samui, come along on a Monday evening in time to catch the sunset and one of those wild beers! Plus there’s also a 2-for-1 happy hour between 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm on selected signature drinks from SIP. Because every Monday night it’s Lights, Camera, Action – with ‘Monday Night at the Movies’. Laid-back in sumptuous daybed splendour next to the whispering-wave beach, every Monday there’s a handpicked screening to suspend your disbelief. Sometimes a classic. Other times a cult epic. Every time terrific.

Take a look at their Facebook page for the info on this (and all their other happenings as well).The movie starts at 8:00 pm, and with finger food and nibbles from both Namu and Beach Grill, it’s a great way to discover what W Retreat Koh Samui is all about – not to mention that’s it’s accessibly affordable, too!

Rob De Wet

_______________________________________________________ For reservations or further information, telephone 0 7791 5999. www.wretreatkohsamui.com

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The Ridge is an exclusive luxury development of private pool villas with panoramic sea views located in the prime North East of Koh Samui, just minutes from the island’s most popular beaches and entertainment areas.

Designed by David McCormick, a renowned international architect, each villa provides the perfect blend of “contemporary tropical living”.

Each villa is also designed to meet the dual requirements as a luxury vacation residence and successful luxury villa rental property.

Sunbathe on the expansive terrace, take a cool dip in the infinity pool, relax in the integrated Jacuzzi and dine under the stars. Breathe fresh air, get away from it all and escape from the city in style…

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DEFT TOUCHES Anantara Bophut Resort & Spa’s expert massages and treatments are guaranteed to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

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If you like spas that are a total getaway from the world, where all you need to do is step through a door and leave your cares behind you, then you’ll definitely want to head for Anantara Bophut Resort & Spa. It offers a fivestar experience that, even amongst all the excellent spas on Samui, stands out as being rather special.

The resort is located on the ring-road, some 500 metres from Bophut traffic lights, as you head west towards Maenam. The resort is set well away from the road, however, and is an oasis all of its own - the spa even more so. Pass through the resort’s atrium, and a corridor takes you out towards gardens. You’ll see the chef’s herb garden on your right, and on your left the imposing entrance to the spa. A massive stone portal that looks as if it belongs to a far older civilization beckons you inside.

Step through, and a limpid pond scattered with lotus flowers greets you.

The spa reception is in the middle, on an island all of its own. It’s here that you choose your treatments, while sipping on a cooling infusion of pandan.

The spa is run by Khun Preeyanuch Ruangsri, who grew up in Samui and speaks excellent English. She’s able to help you choose from the agreeably lengthy spa menu. And there’s no hurry in any of this; Khun Preeyanuch and her team want you to be happy with your choice and can explain exactly what each treatment entails.

Once you’ve chosen your treatment, your masseuse then takes you deeper into the spa, into a lush walled garden that seems to belong to an exotic palace. It’s filled with trees and plants, and always, always looks beautiful.

Even when it’s raining, it’s atmospheric. And you’ll want to pause and take it in, before entering your treatment suite. It’s totally private and has a courtyard with both a shower and a deep, luxuriant bath tub.

The entire spa is imbued with the same unhurried and stress free feeling that the staff themselves exude. This makes it an entirely pleasant, wonderfully relaxed place to be, and you’ll soon feel in synch with its gentle rhythms.

It’d be difficult not to unwind here; everything and everyone is focussed on your well-being.

Samui Discover authentic Indian Cuisine

Noori India Restaurant - Chaweng Center Chaweng Beach Road, opp. Chaweng Buri Noori India Restaurant - Chaweng South at Chaweng Cove Resort Noori India - Central Festival at Chaweng Beach Road For reservation (English) - 0 867 407 873 or 0 7741 3108 For reservation (Thai) - 0 813 960 283 E-mail: nooriindia_samui@yahoo.com www.nooriindiasamui.com

2012 WINNER

2013 WINNER

2014 WINNER

By the time you start the treatment itself, you’ll already be feeling the stress beginning to drop away. What comes next will be even better; a journey that, by the time it’s finished, will seem to have re-set your sense of being relaxed. Khun Preeyanuch’s in charge of making sure that the treatments are well-thought out and, when they’re combined into packages, that each step of the journey, from start to finish, is a blissful experience.

One of the treatments she recommends is the Gulf of Siam. It’s a leisurely process, taking almost four hours from start to finish. Its aim is to revitalize your entire being, starting from the tips of your toes. You first undergo a floral foot ritual, followed by a shower.

Then the massage itself begins. It’s Royal Thai style, which means that it follows the historical guidelines of massages for nobility.

No stretching is done. Instead pressure points that follow the body’s meridians are massaged with the utmost skill and devotion.

Afterwards, your therapist will massage your feet using foot reflexology, a delightful process that is guaranteed to ease away any lingering aches and pains. Last but not least, you’ll be given an Anantara signature facial. A blend of nourishing plant extracts combined with traditional Thai ingredients is used; this promotes cell renewal and leaves your skin feeling cleansed and rejuvenated. A herbal mask helps restore a natural glow to your skin. Needless to say, it’s incredibly relaxing. After the treatment is complete, you’ll be given a refreshing drink before you venture into the outside world again.

SCL International School International Education from Pre-school to Secondary Educating the Mind Nurturing the Soul



 Small classes  Individual education plans Fully qualified teachers  A family atmosphere

With these qualities, it’s not hard to see why the children at SCL are achieving so much A warm welcome is extended to anyone who wishes to visit the school

Another not to be missed is the Anantara Signature Massage, which again begins with a floral foot ritual to prepare you for the massage to come. Your therapist will use a special blend of oils, and then with focussed movements, work on your body to promote circulation of energy while enabling you to enter a deep state of relaxation.

The underlying philosophy here is that by stimulating the meridional lines of the body, prana, or the flow of energy, will be restored to how it should be.

SCL International School

127/40-50 Moo 3 Maret, Lamai, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84310, Thailand Phone: 0 7741 8789 Mobile: 0 810 910 714 Email: emma@sclinternationalschool.com www.sclinternationalschool.com

There are many different treatments available, and it’s impossible to list them all in this article. Suffice to say that they range from simple massages with a variety of styles (traditional Thai, Swedish, Balinese and deep tissue) through to packages of almost four hours’ duration. You’ll find scrubs, wraps, facials, Shirodhara, and pedicure and manicure as well. There are great treatments especially for couples too (many come for a treatment during their honeymoon), and afterwards you’ll be given special home-care products.

The only caveat in all of this is that because the spa’s so popular, you’ll need to book. “It’s best to book a day in advance,” says Khun Preeyanuch.

“Although if you’re coming in the high season, at Christmas or New Year, then you might need to book three days ahead.” The spa’s open every day, from 10:00 am till 10:00 pm, allowing you plenty of leeway.

Everyone’s welcome, and you certainly don’t need to be a guest of the 112 l www.samuiholiday.com

resort to indulge in the spa’s tempting menu. Chic, comfortable and above all amazingly relaxing, the spa is definitely one of Samui’s top-notch venues for pampering in amazing surroundings. You’re definitely in good hands.

Last year, the spa was the winner of two World Luxury Spa Awards: the accolade of ‘Worldwide Best Spa Manager’ went to Khun Preeyanuch, while Anantara Bophut was designated the ‘Best Luxury Boutique Spa in Thailand’.

Dimitri Waring

______________________________________________________________ For reservations or further information, telephone 0 7742 8300-9. www.samui.anantara.com

Let Waterline’s menu take you on a journey. Globally inspired, highlighting seafood, meat and poultry the menu is infused with Chef Roberto Belletti’s worldwide culinary passion. A story teller through his food, the menu will delight the palate while evoking words, thought and memories.

Come and visit Waterline to experience a journey on a plate.

Manathai Koh Samui Samui Ring Road Lamai Telephone 0 7745 8560-4 www.manathai.com Serving daily between 11:30am – 10:30pm

RINGING IN THE NEW

A look at Hansar Samui as they reveal their gourmet New Year’s Eve menu.

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You are totally spoiled for choice. Christmas and New Year on Samui are exciting. If you’re just coming for a short stay then it’s probably the best time of year to come. But even if you live here and you’ve seen it all before, then it’s still hard to beat. Firstly, you’ve got those two terrific bookends – Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. And then there’s the food. Take your pick! A traditional English Christmas blowout? If you’re German or Swiss then you’ll be going your own way on the 24th.

Scandinavian? Plenty of options there, too. And when it comes to the New Year . . .

Well, actually, this one’s a bit harder. When it comes to fabulous food, most places seem to back-pedal a bit. They might run a buffet perhaps, probably with a band, and some fireworks later. But they’ve spent all their energy on the Christmas menu, and there’s nothing all that special for the 31st. And that’s a pity, as two fantastic meals over the festive period are much better than one. But, if you really want to make an occasion of it, you’ll need to look closely at Hansar Samui.

Hansar is special. It first opened its doors in July 2010, and right away set itself apart from the other 5-star resorts on the island. It’s a mediumsized resort with 74 deluxe rooms, but it quickly and successfully established itself without seeming to follow any of the usual trends. It’s not ‘boutique’ or bijou. It didn’t go down the path of minimalist design, nor did it try to be Thai in its styling. Whereas others went for the jungle-look with exotic bushes and blooms, Hansar kept it all very open and simple with a huge lawn as its only concession to greenery. And the resort is a simple U-shaped block that’s moulded around this. The furnishings and décor are carefully understated. But the facilities throughout are simply superb.

If you think about it, then you’ll realise that spas are a bit like Thai cooking classes – every resort has to have one, or they’ll fall behind the competition. And this has resulted in a huge difference in quality from one resort to the next. The LUXSA spa here is as dedicated and as brimful of integrity as everything at Hansar. The thinking is rooted in

a meaningful and holistic approach to ourselves and our bodies, with medical and physical conditions being assessed and integrated with personality typing, to determine the specific oils and aromas to be used for the treatment. But there’s also plenty of pampering, with wraps, scrubs and facial treatments, if you’d prefer.

Heading back towards the beach, you’ll discover the other of Hansar’s big attractions, the enigmatically named H Bistro. In keeping with the ethos of the resort, it’s simple and discreet. It’s situated on two floors, right on the corner of the block that fringes the sea and open on two sides, with a delightful outlook towards the nearby island of Koh Phangan. But it’s not until you get inside that you’ll appreciate the sheer quality of everything, from the solid wooden chairs and tables with the real crystal glassware, to the semi-open state-of-the-art stainless steel kitchen that’s along the whole of the rear wall.

The man who’s responsible for all this is just as quiet and low key, but as with everything in this world that is packed with substance and quality, there’s no need at all for him to make a noise. Executive Chef Stephen Dion is a quiet and unassuming man, and naturally modest to the point he feels reticent explaining his culinary philosophy (. . .“my cuisine can speak for itself . . .”). But his international fare with a FrenchMediterranean influence was impressive enough for His Majesty the King of Jordan – Stephen was his private chef for two years.

When culinary art reaches these sorts of heights then the ingredients become increasingly more important. The sheer artistry of playing-off flavours with aftertastes and creating subtle harmonies and contrasts of textures demands something more than a trip to the local market. Samui is an island, and most diners expect to see seafood on the menu. But nearly all of Stephen’s items are specially imported for a particular flavour or quality, such as the live lobsters, razor clams, langoustines, mussels, king crab, and in particular the pink oysters which are brought in from France and are only occasionally in season.

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The pinnacle of H Bistro’s gourmet cuisine has to be Stephen’s superlative six-course ‘Degustation Menu’ that’s presented with matched wine pairing. But this year, he’s decided to take a completely different approach to dining on New Year’s Eve. Many other places are doing some sort of buffet. And so is he. But the difference is that Stephen’s buffet is quite literally, fit for a king. Instead of presenting you with an extensive six-course meal, he’s had the idea to pull it all to pieces.

He’s kept the essential ingredients, the meats, fish and seafood and salads, sauces and dips and, with a series of eight live cooking stations preparing items à la minute. Essentially, it will be an haute-cuisine buffet that you can fiddle about with to your own liking, for as long as you like over the course of the evening!

Be tempted by Luxury Spéciale Tarbouriech Oyster, Cappuccino Hokkaido Scallops, Minute-Seared Scottish Langoustines or Wild Salmon Eggs. Try to resist Seared Soulard Foie Gras, Supreme De “Canard de

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Challans”, Slow Cooked Maine Lobster Medallion or Stockyard Prime USDA Beef Tenderloin. Force yourself to find room for Satin Chocolate Mousse with Coco-Nib Tuile, or Caramel Fleur De Sel Ice Cream with an Amber Caramel Sauce. Plus there’s a table full of cold cuts and a selection of exotic salads, too. This is not your average buffet!

You’ll certainly need to book, as demand will be high. And one more thing. There’s a big firework show at midnight. But from Hansar you can see the whole of the bay, all flashing and thundering and bursting at the same time – and that’s one thing you’ll get for free when you ring-in the New Year at Hansar Samui!

Rob De Wet

_____________________________________________________________ For reservations or further information, telephone 0 7724 5511. www.hansarsamui.com

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www.samui-ultimate-samui.com

KOH SAMUI www.samuiholiday.com l 119

LEWD & RUDE

At Hinta Hinyai, rocks get ribald and are guaranteed to provoke a reaction.

120 l www.samuiholiday.com

www.samuiholiday.com l 121

Oscar Wilde once said of the Alps that they were ‘bad taste’. We can only wonder what he might have said about the astonishing duo of rocks at Hinta Hinyai. Unknown in his day, they’re now an infamous feature here on Samui, and are a major tourist attraction. For a couple of rocks, they certainly get a lot of visitors. And a good few raised eyebrows and laughs.

Rocks aren’t known for their sense of humour, nor is geography a source of ribaldry. When we gaze at landscapes we may find them beautiful, but they’re definitely not going to make us laugh out loud. Well, not usually. And this is partly why so many people end up going down a narrow lane to take a look at the rock formations in question.

They look uncannily like male and female genitalia. And what’s odder still is that they’re positioned just 25 metres apart. That’s quite a coincidence. The proximity is certainly eye-brow raising; the cynical might even say that they’re not natural rock formations at all, but the covert work of tourism authorities trying to pull in crowds. But go up to the rocks and you’ll find that they are indeed genuine. Tap them and they’re not hollow, nor are they made of concrete. They’ve been here for millions of years, and somehow the impossible has happened and nature has sculpted a double set of genitals. People tend to stare in bewilderment. Others laugh. A few smirk. But whatever the reaction, the two geological jesters are certainly here to stay.

The rocks have definitely taken on mythical qualities, and the very name of the place suggests this. Ta is the Thai word for grandfather, while Yai means grandmother. Hin simply means stone or rock. Therefore you have 122 l www.samuiholiday.com

Grandfather and Grandmother Rock. As you can imagine, legends have sprung up about how they came to be here. Variations exist, but the basic story is one of maritime tragedy. Khreng and Rhiem were an elderly couple who lived in Nakhon Si Thammarat. Their son lived with them and it was high time, they decided, that he should get married. So they set sail for the north; they wanted their son to marry the daughter of a couple living near Prachuap Khiri Khan. It was very dangerous in those days to undertake sea journeys – right up until the 1970s even the relatively short stretch between Samui and Koh Tao wasn’t considered easy. You can guess what happened to the couple. Their vessel sank during a storm, and they were drowned. But as mythic beings, they’re still with us, as they were transformed into the rock formations at Hinta Hinyai. They are monuments to a journey that can never be completed; the couple are frozen in time and place. But even though they never managed to arrange the marriage of their son, some people believe that they have brought good luck to others. Many couples come to visit the rocks, as they believe that they can assist them in producing a family. Such people might just admit they’re being superstitious, but there’s a lot of literature to show that beliefs are extraordinarily powerful, and that if you have enough faith, then you can forge reality itself. Whatever the truth is, one thing’s certain: these mythical rocks have a role that goes beyond anything to do with sightseeing.

However, it’s also safe to say that if the two rocks were miles away and surrounded by impenetrable jungle, then nobody would bother much about visiting them. But because they’re just off the ring-road and face out from a beautiful beach, they’ve become voguish in the extreme. Their real draw is their surroundings and this is why coming here figures so prominently on many tours of the island. www.samuiholiday.com l 123

The little area that’s home to Hinta Hinyai is quite a special place in its own right. The beach here is very picturesque, though isn’t suitable for much more than paddling. But the bay of Lamai starts just a short walk to the north, with kilometres of swimmable waters. At Hinta Hinyai, the sea is very often crystal clear and there are plenty of fish to be seen swimming here.

The rocks are easy to get to. They are some two kilometres south of the central stretch of beach at Lamai. If driving, head south through Lamai on the ring-road and keep on going past the post office on your right. Then just before the main road starts going up the next hill, take the small turning on your left. The rocks are basically at the far end of the small lane that

you’ll now find yourself in. The best times to see the rocks are in the early morning, or as the sun sets, when the light makes for great photographs, but any time of day is good. There are several small restaurants here, offering mostly Thai food with some international selections. You’ll also be able to pick up souvenirs and snacks that’ll make good presents.

Whatever you think of the strange rocks themselves, you might want to keep to yourself. But a visit to Hinta Hinyai – you can always opt to turn the proverbial blind eye – is on many people’s agenda, simply because it’s an excuse to venture into the surrounding areas. If you’re continuing on from Hinta Hinyai, there’s a lot to see and do. Just over a kilometre away you’ll find the stony theme continues at Wat Sila Ngu (it translates as ‘stone snake

temple’), a semi-deserted place where time seems to move at an extraordinarily languid place. The temple is guarded by stone snakes and strange figures of clay. And further on, you’ll find the extraordinarily colourful Chinese temple at Ban Hua Thanon, a traditional fishing village, which still boasts colourful hand-painted boats. And after that, there’s the whole of the south of Samui to explore, the island’s least developed part, and for some, it’s most rewarding.

Dimitri Waring

MASTER CLASS A look at why it’s well worth a trip for the cooking classes at Olivio.

126 l www.samuiholiday.com

www.samuiholiday.com l 127

Thai food is now one of the most popular cuisines in the world. So how about making a bet? What are the odds that your resort has a Thai cooking class? If it doesn’t, then it’s in the minority! Today, everyone wants to have a go at making Thai food. And it’s not only easy; it’s great fun, too. However, all these classes are different.

Some include trips to a local market first. Some offer making just one dish, whereas others cover as many as five different recipes in one session. And the personalities of the teachers are all different, too, as of course, is the cost.

But did you realise that every resort is more than happy to have you visit them and sit in on their class? It makes for an excellent alternative trip out, plus you’ll get a chance to see somewhere different while you’re at it. And so, with all this in mind, we went along to have a look at how they do things at Baan Haad Ngam Boutique Resort & Spa. Baan Haad Ngam is quite delightful. It’s down a side lane, right up at the far northern end of Chaweng Beach Road, one of the last few resorts on the beach side before the road twists upwards and heads towards the neighbouring bay of Choeng Mon. It is a cosy resort, and designed along boutique lines. It’s distinctly un-Thai is its presentation and styling – almost a little taste of the Mediterranean, tucked away down a cobbled street between the impressively terraced main building of the resort itself and the entrance of its signature restaurant, Olivio, which sits just on the other side of the 128 l www.samuiholiday.com

KAYAKING Explore the caves and beaches of the Angthong National Marine Park Offices located behind Bondi Pub in central Chaweng and on Chaweng Lake Road opposite Lake View For reservations please call 0 7730 0615 or 0 878 866 097

www.bluestars.info

cobbles, framed by profuse tropical greenery.

Olivio has been high up on Samui’s restaurant hit parade for quite a few years now, and has gained a deserved reputation for the quality and authenticity of its Italian cuisine. But few people know that its Thai cuisine is tip-top too. And that’s what we’re focussing on today.

The restaurant area is open on two sides and is pleasantly cool and shady. The décor is simple and fresh, sturdy and semi-rustic, and the dining furniture solid, functional and comfortable. But probably the most notable thing on a first impression is the view, with a curving bar of white sand leading out to sea, picturesque little fishing boats and misty islands dotted in the background. It couldn’t be better for photos, so don’t forget your camera!

When it comes to the cooking classes, you have a choice: either come along in time to join the market trip, or give this a miss and turn up later for the actual class itself. The advice here is simple.

Go to the market! If you’re not familiar with a Thai fresh-food market, this is crammed full of sights and sounds that will have you buzzing with excitement. There will probably be ten or a dozen things that will puzzle you (look out for banana flowers!). But your guide will be able to explain what they are and what they are used for. And your guide for the trip will be the very pleasant Khun Orn.

Her full name is Onauma Puticompee, and she’s the Thai Kitchen Commis Chef. She’s smiley, cheerful and attentive, and also the chef who is going to take you through the cooking class. You need to book at least 24 hours in advance in order for the staff to prepare for you. Singles are welcome, but from experience, it’s much more fun if you go as a couple. And here at Olivio, four is the maximum number they will take, in order to keep the tuition as individual as possible. At the same time as booking, you’re given the chance to pick out what you want to learn to cook from a selection of 17 dishes, split into appetizers, soups, mains and desserts. And you’ll pick one from each section, making a total of four dishes each.

Khun Orn is attentive and involved, firstly pointing out and identifying all the ingredients that will be used, and inviting you to smell and taste each in turn. The ingredients from the market are now ready and waiting, cleaned and prepped into numerous little ceramic bowls on a side table. Taking each item in turn, she will explain how it needs to be chopped or sliced, and is quick to offer advice and help if you’re not already a kitchen expert. And there are lots of hints and tips that are passed on along the way, too. Such as, keep tasting as you add the ingredients. Every Thai cook will make the same dish in a slightly different way, and Thai food is all about tailoring the overall flavour to your own personal preference. So, if it’s a bit too sweet, add some lime juice. Too spicy? Add coconut milk, or take out some of the seeds from the chillies. These are the vital bits of info that seem to be missing from most cookery

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books, and what makes a class like this so valuable. You’ll get to see a real Thai cook in action, and have the chance to ask her about all the processes as you go.

A word of advice: take a notebook along and jot down each of the steps. Khun Orn has a subtle awareness of the overall combination of tastes and aromas of each dish. And some of the ingredients are there simply to add to the aroma . . . the star anise or the cinnamon, for example. With Khun Orn it’s all about the totality of each dish, not merely the taste, and she’ll also take equal care with the presentation on the plate, so that the visual aspect is equally as harmonious as the combination of flavours and aromas. This is something you won’t often come across, and the reason that the class here at Olivio comes so highly recommended.

The classes here begin every day at 10:45 am if you go on the market trip, and at 12:30 pm if you don’t. And for a glimpse of what it’s all about, and a look at the recipes and booking form, why not drop in to Olivio for a bite to eat sometime. You’ll discover it will be well worth it!

Rob De Wet

_______________________________________________________ For reservations or further information, telephone 0 7723 1500-8 or email booking@baanhaadngam.com www.baanhaadngam.com

Daily Theme Nights From 7pm.

Monday Classical Thai Night Buffet - THB 590 Tuesday Catch of the Day - from THB 250 Wednesday Italian Night Buffet - THB 490 Thursday Steak Supreme - from THB 300 Friday Beach BBQ Buffet featuring live music and a fire juggling show - THB 690 Saturday Surf & Turf - THB 790 Sunday Roast Chicken Sunday - THB 390 Daily Happy Hours at Beach Bar Buy 1 get 1 free beers and cocktails from 12pm - 2pm l 5pm - 7pm l 9pm - Midnight Sentinel Band Enjoy music from the Sentinel Band - Monday to Saturday from 7pm – 10pm Dining on the Beach Moonlight beach dining with your own private chef, from THB 1,500 per person

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WHAT YOU GOT? Different attitudes and lifestyles mean that there’s a huge range of accommodation here – depending on what you want!

all by themselves. In some extreme cases, the current generation has flattened and rebuilt the entire resort to a high and modern standard (as with The Library), although many small bungalow resorts still exist.

Chaweng has largely outgrown such stands but with notable exceptions; Chaweng Garden Resort springing immediately to mind.

Lamai is a different case, as the whole ‘town’ is far more spread out than Chaweng, and there are still many family-owned single-roomed concrete bungalow resorts to be found dotted right along the long coastline there. The other area where many of these little family resorts still stand firm is the island’s north coast, particularly the western stretch from Maenam through towards neighbouring Ban Tai and Bang Po. The costing varies according to the season, but generally speaking the closer to the seafront you are the higher the price, ranging from a high season 2,000-plus baht per day on the beach, to perhaps 800 baht or so for a place at the rear of the resort.

It’s a cliché, but it’s true – you’re spoiled for choice. You’ll find patches of hyper-luxury dotted around above deserted beaches with huts to rent.

At one extreme you can take over an entire luxury walled multi-villa resort, complete with personal chef and servants. And then we’re back to wooden huts again, no mod cons, at the other end of the scale. Plus there’s everything in-between.

Over the last couple of decades, there’s been a pattern of the smaller prime resorts being absorbed by bigger ones. The inevitable result has been that the ‘hippie huts’ of the ’80’s have all but disappeared.

In many ways these became iconic, representing not only a particular lifestyle, but also a time, now passed, when everything was simpler and less commercialised. They do still exist, albeit that there are more to be discovered over on Koh Pha-Ngan. However, we’ve heard of one or two still in the Lamai area, even though they now have electricity and running water!

What is more usual is that those families who once-upon-a-time owned and managed an enclave of said wooden huts have, over the years, ripped them down and replaced them with sturdier edifices, here and there, as and when the old wooden structures threatened to fall down 134 l www.samuiholiday.com

Still keeping on the track of a ten-day pay-per-day holiday getaway with hotel-style room service and cleaning included, suddenly in the 3-and 4-star range there seem to be hundreds to choose from! This sort of small resort (now universally dubbed ‘boutique’) is the most prolific, and to be found everywhere. It’s invariably family-owned, although two strong trends have emerged since the turn of the millennium. The first is that beach land has become almost prohibitive in terms of what can reasonably be asked of a guest to stay there. Families who have owned their beach-land for generations can still charge a reasonable rate.

But new resorts, needing to buy the real estate as well as pay for the construction, have turned to the hills, where land is less costly. Hence the plethora of new developments on the inland side of the ring-road.

And secondly, there are now a lot more foreign nationals pitching for their own countrymen back home. There are resorts which are French, Italian, German and, lately, Russian. Their local signage is often in their language and they seek to attract a clientele that’s all of a similar nationality, either working in concert with tour agencies in their own countries or advertising privately via publications or an online presence in their own language. It seems that Samui is now established enough to support such diverse specialisation!

And that point has been firmly made by the increased presence of the world-renowned multinational 5-star chains. Although our island has been able to boast its fair share of such lofty establishments, most of

these were smaller and Asian (if not actually Thai) based. But somewhere in the mid-2000s everything suddenly changed. The big names decided that Samui was now ready for their presence, and within a very few years brands appeared such as Conrad, Four Seasons, Le Meridien, Intercontinental, W and Banyan Tree.

And then there are the privately bought and owned apartments and villas. This area is also flourishing, as the deal usually comes with a competent maintenance and management package for the owner. Most people who take on one of these aren’t actually living here full time, but tend to stay here for perhaps four months or so every year. The average size of a studio apartment is about 50 square metres, with a modern kitchen and bathroom and one bedroom. Samui is now of an age when many visitors have realised that it’s more economical to take a furnished apartment for a month than it is to stay at a resort. And there are now enough quality places to pick from that this has become a viable alternative.

At the other extreme, the luxury-villa market is expanding rapidly too, having the same kind of management thinking. This is often grabbed at by couples coming here to get married; also another very popular draw to the island. There are now so many of these mini-villa compounds that it’s easy and effective to find them online and make a booking the same way – usually three or four big and luxurious villas together are not hard to find, particularly as Conrad and Four Seasons also have them available (amongst others).

Welcome to Sa-ard’s Watersports Center on Koh Samui. Where everyday can be an aquatic adventure – above and below the crystal clear blue waters of the Gulf of Thailand.

Join us and discover what r eally makes these islands so very special.

Our brand new catamaran Fountaine Pajot Belize 43 “Kindred Spirit” can comfortably take 15 people on a day trip and sleep 6 people on over-night excursions.

The starboard hull has a double stateroom with ensuite bathroom and living area. There are also two double state rooms in the port hull with a shared bathroom. You’ll also find a large galley and a living area with CD/DVD player and a 28 inch colour TV. All the cabins and living areas are fully air-conditioned.

Sa-ard’s Watersports Center also offers Private Speedboat tours to the beaches and snorkeling destinations of the surrounding islands.

Manager and Skipper is Sa-ard, one of Thailand’s most celebrated windsurfers. He took part in the Olympics 1984 in Los Angeles and 1992 in Barcelona, was a long time member of the Thai National Windsurfing Team, has been Asian Champion and 5 times Gold Medal Winner in the South East Asian Games. You simply could not be in better hands!

And those iconic huts on the beach, with no hot water, a lazy hammock and with mushrooms for breakfast? Those days have gone. The hippies gave way to the backpackers, to be replaced by families with kids, then wedding groups, and now there’s also the ‘tech-packers’ complete with iPhones, iPads and credit card backup. And few of them want to stay in a primitive wooden hut anymore. A sign of the times? Probably. But if you want to come and stay on Samui, all you can do is find out what’s here – then avail yourselves of the best what we’ve got!

Rob De Wet

www.samuiholiday.com l 135

GONE FISHING From time immemorial, Samui people have set out to sea to fish. Now you can join them.

136 l www.samuiholiday.com

www.samuiholiday.com l 137

Fishing. It always has the feel of a great adventure, especially if you’re taking a boat out to sea. And it’s an activity that combines both excitement and peacefulness. A place where two extremes not only meet, but somehow complement each other.

When you come to Samui, you may think there’s not much in the way of fishing trips, as you won’t see any loud adverts for them. There’ll be plenty else going on to capture your attention, so you may just end up thinking they don’t exist here. Well, nothing could be further from the truth. Samui is big on fishing. In fact, it’s one of the principal industries here. And it always has been.

Traditionally Samui was a fishing and farming island, and everybody lived off the land and the sea. Times were good; the fields had plenty and so too, did the sea. Everybody had food on the table.

When tourism came along, people wanted to try and do something different, and Samui’s hospitality industry was born. Looking after all the holidaymakers became so important that many people gave up the traditional way of life altogether.

But fishing continued – and still does today, even though fewer people engage in it. An enormous daily catch is necessary in order to keep Samui’s hundreds of restaurants going – virtually all of them serve seafood and much of it is locally caught.

However, not all Samui’s boats are used for bringing in industrial-sized catches. Some are used for taking holidaymakers out to sea, where

138 l www.samuiholiday.com

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If you are looking for something wonderful and different, Zazen restaurant is the place for you to discover. Their master chef emphasises the use of healthy organic ingredients while infusing dining participation. Zazen is truly one of the most romantic and serene beachside dining restaurants on the island. Every night this charming establishment lights up over 100 candles to set the ambiance for you to experience.

Tel: 077 425 085, 081 737 8771 Email: fb@samuizazen.com Website: www.samuizazen.com

Samui Every conceivable Indian dish is on offer here – and they are all delicious! Conveniently located in Central Chaweng, the restaurant is open from 11:00 am – 11:30 pm.

For further information, reservations, and take-away orders (free delivery in Chaweng area), telephone 0 7741 3315.

Asia Travel they can spend a day catching their own fish, albeit in smaller quantities. It’s possible – just about – to come back empty-handed, but this is only very rarely the case. Instead you’re likely to come across a whole plethora of fish, depending on the time of day you go and the area you visit, including pomfret, stingray, barracuda, squid, snapper and grouper.

So how does it all work? How do you get to go on a fishing trip on Samui? It’s really easy to arrange. Just drop into a travel agency as all of them have contact with firms who arrange the trips. If there are enough of you, it’s possible to privately charter a boat. Just ask and see what kind of deals are on offer. It’s quite alright to bargain, but since fishing’s popular, you may find it hard to get the price down.

You should always check that there’s adequate insurance, life jackets and that everything you need will be on board. Typically what you’ll need to bring is sun cream, a towel, camera, swimsuit and a large bottle of water – even though there will be plenty on the boat. Bring sunglasses too, as staring out to sea while sunlight is bouncing off the water can prove dazzling after a while. You certainly won’t need to bring bait, lures or any other equipment.

If you’re more adventurous, then head down south, to the least developed part of the island and here you’ll be able to hire boats directly from small fishing enterprises. The captain may not speak very good English, but using your imagination, you’ll be able to make yourself fairly easily understood. You’ll find boats for hire if you start at Thong Krut and head eastwards along the coast.

Asia Travel is the most popular travel agency on Koh Samui. Established 15 years ago, they are well known to provide updated travel information reasonably priced for all international and domestic needs. Their second to none consultancy service will help you with all aspects of long or short stay requirements such as visa, work permit or company registration and finances. Asia Travel is well known for their quality services as mentioned in The Lonely Planet.

Tel: 0 7723 6120, 0 7742 1342 Fax: 0 7742 1185 Email: asia_int@samart.co.th For Taxi: ร้านตั้งอยู่ที่ถนนหน้าทอน

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If you hire a boat via a travel agency, then a typical day starts off, not at a quay but at your hotel; a minibus will come to collect you and your party and take you in comfort to wherever the boat is moored. You’ll find it’s substantially sized and will be able to deal with any buffeting waves that you may encounter. Once everyone’s aboard the boat, it sets off for the fishing grounds. As you leave Samui, you can look back and see how green the island is; some of the best views are from the sea. You’ll be able to see shores fringed with coconut trees and strips of almost incandescent white sand.

The time goes by quickly and is usually very relaxing, though once you start fishing you may have to wait a while before you feel that familiar tug on your line, but maybe not. And don’t worry if you’ve never been fishing before – you’ll soon learn. Afterwards the boat will usually take you on to a further fishing ground and the procedure will repeat itself. At some point you’ll have lunch. And guess what’s on the menu? Fish – sometimes even your own catch. There’ll also probably be the chance to snorkel and see some of those fish in their natural habitat. Afterwards, the boat will head back for Samui, usually arriving around 4:30 to 5:30 pm.

You can also opt to go deep-sea fishing, in which case the boat will venture much further out, taking up to four hours to arrive. Then there’s night fishing, where you’ll set off in the evening, and return in the early hours of the morning. If you have enough time, then you can go on a lengthier trip for two days and a night of fishing. Great fun, but you’ll need plenty of stamina; to battle with fish you’ll also need to battle with your own desire to sleep.

If you think that you may not really enjoy the idea of fishing but would still love to go out to sea on a boat, then you’d probably enjoy a sunset cruise along the coast or perhaps an alternative full day out, not fishing, but snorkelling and exploring the amazingly beautiful Angthong Marine Park.

Even if you’re staying on a beautiful tropical island, there are still plenty of good reasons to venture away from it for a while and enjoy being at sea.

Dimitri Waring

____________________________________________________________ For further information, telephone Mr. Ung’s Big Games Fishing on 0 7723 0114. www.ungsafari.com

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Santib

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