Absolute Thai Magazine 14 by Absolute Thail Magazine

Feb - Mar 10

Ashley Greene

escape from normality

suite escape escape to relaxation and enter the world of dusitD2 hospitality privileges: a 3-night stay in the spectacular studio suite (76sqm.) roundtrip transportation from and to suvarnabhumi airport by toyota camry daily “bubbling breakfast” with free-flow sparkling wine a selection of 60-minute spa treatment for one person and 50% discount for the second person 15% discount on laundry 15% discount on food desire welcome drink upon arrival daily delight box guarantee late check-out till 3pm complimentary unlimited in-room hi-speed internet thb 22,900++ terms & conditions minimum 3-night stay receive a 20% discount from dusit best rate applicable for single and double occupancy rate is quoted in thai baht and subject to 10% service charge and prevailing government taxes extra person (s) charged at 1,500++ baht per person inclusive of a roll away bed and breakfast 10% commissionable to bona fide travel agencies advance reservation is required and subject to space availability this promotion is valid from 1 december 2009 – 31 march 2010

boutique resort & spa

Getaway......

phang ka-samui

Need We Say More......? www.elements-koh-samui.com

tel: +66 (0)77 914 678 fax: +66 (0)77 914 699 Email: info@elements-koh-samui.com

15 Centara Grand Krabi Issue February & March 2010

Ashley Greene

Hot Properties

Humour

Health and Well-being

Cover Feature

Hot Properties

Recipe

Travel

Fashion

Horoscope

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi

Limburi Hometel

Golf - The Race to Dubai

Absolute At Panta

Ferrari 458 Italia

Home Decor (Kitchens)

Chairman: Bryan Lunt Bryan@AbsoluteWorld.net

(Bangkok & Phuket)

(Thai Sales) Andrew@AbsoluteWorld.net

Travel

Tim Knight (Northern Sales) TimKnight@AbsoluteThai.com Mobile: (+66) 84 689 9680

Ferrari 458 Italia

elcome to Thailand’s version of spring, or, as it is better known, the end of the cool season and the beginning of the hot season. For those of you new to Thailand and thought that it has been quite warm already, you are in for a real surprise in the next few months. But there are ways to stay cool, and if you stay here long enough, you begin to acclimate to the hot and humid weather. A dip in a pool or in the waters off of white sandy beach will do wonders. However, I must warn you that this issue of Absolute Thai might get your temperature up a bit, even if you are reading this in an air-conditioned room. The pictures of Ashley Greene, the pictures by Ian Scrivener and the photo shoot of the fashion models at the Absolute Bangla Suites are sure to grab your imagination and attention. Maybe you should wrap the magazine in plastic, and look at those sections while lounging in the pool. Just a thought. Even the article on the new Ferrari 458 Italia will get your blood pumping too. Maybe I should have mentioned this first, just in case you have forgotten, but February 14th is Valentine’s Day and, like it or not, if you have a significant other (or even a non-significant other) they are going to expect to be treated like royalty on that day. So, open your mind and your wallet, and show that special someone that you really care for them. Enjoy the article “Love is in the Air”. Love it or hate it, Valentine’s Day is here to stay, and there is no hiding from it. For one day of the year, be a romantic. You might be surprised the dividends you will get in return! A mini-vacation to the Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas on Krabi island would be a great and romantic getaway for this holiday. Read the article on it to see why. Renting a yacht for a day from Ocean’s Elite Charters would be an excellent way to impress your loved one too. But remember, it does not have to be Valentine’s Day to enjoy some of the wonderful offerings Thailand has to offer. “Space Tourism”. Who would have ever thought we would hear that phrase in our lifetimes? The ability to experience a trip into space without having to be a real and actual NASA astronaut, but thanks to Rich Branson, Burt Rutan (who flew around the world non-stop in his homebuilt Voyager plane), the Russians and American space travel knowhow, space tourism is now a reality. For the next couple of years, it will still be for the super rich, but not long after, a quick trip into space to explore an area most of us have only dreamed about will be within our reach. I know I am starting to save my baht now! So I truly hope you enjoy this issue of Absolute Thai as many writers, editors, photographers and designers have put their heart and soul into doing their best to bring you a magazine that will give you a few hours of reading pleasure. Be sure and read the golfing article, and learn how you can win a spectacular prize too.

Tim Knight

Cleansing Programs Yoga & Meditation Spa Treatments Herbal Steam Far Infrared Sauna Vegetarian Raw Food CafĂŠ Samui Wellness Spa is a Holistic health centre located on a gorgeous, white, powder sand beach in Southern Chaweng. It is a sanctuary for total health and relaxation, specializing in deep cleansing, rejuvenation programs and specialty spa treatments. Herbal cleansing programs are the core of the Samui Wellness Spa. They focus on safely bringing your body and mind back to its optimum, natural, healthy state. This is achieved using a combination of herbal supplements, colon hydrotherapy, far Infrared sauna or herbal steam, massage, yoga, meditation, and depending on which program - either fasting, or delicious, healthy raw food cuisine from our vegetarian raw food cafĂŠ. We offer a number of detox programs from half day to seven days depending on how much time you have here on Samui and how toxic your body is! Cleanse and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul at the Samui Wellness Spa

Samui Wellness Spa in Samui Resotel 17/16 Moo 3 Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320 Tel. 077- 422433, 077- 414332 Fax 077-414335 www.samuiwellnessspa.com

Humour

Love is in the Air

Read: “Damn you Lupercalla!” Tim Knight

ust a few days left to find a Valentine’s Day gift. Fortunately for guys, the desperate retailers of Thailand have made it clear how to hit the mark.

Just start with a simple vase. Then fill it with flowers, chocolates, lingerie, scented candles, perfume, a diamond necklace and keys to a new pink Fino with all the extras. Throw in a greetings card with sappy rhymes or cutesy sexual innuendos, and you are pretty much covered. Throughout the ages, many cultures have paused to celebrate love and romance in mid February. Whether this is because it is usually cold out and in the days before television what more fun was there, cannot be ascertained. One must concede, however, that people must have loved at other times of year. Otherwise, everyone who was ever born would have his or her birthday in late November!

Humour Valentine’s Day may date as far back as Roman times and their festival of Lupercalla, which marked the time for all good erotics to step forward and honor Juno Februata, the goddess of feverish love (i.e. horny). She should not be confused with non-Roman, Peggy Lee, who sang of a fever that was more or less the same, but of a different period. Every year on the Ides of February, love notes or billets would be drawn to partner men and women for dinner, dancing, a few drinks and well… whatever. Early Christians were unable to continue this…er…tradition. In a realistic attempt to curb sensual delights, the clergy encouraged celebrants to substitute the names of saints. (Is it here where original guilt begins or did that come later? And think about this for a moment: If you change what you call it, do you change what it is?) In any case, Lupercalla was no saint and therefore died by the wayside as celebrants (sinners by first choice) were ordered to emulate for the next twelve months the ideals represented by the particular saint they had chosen. Some early Christian erotic found a way to keep Lupercalla going by turning the feast of the flesh into a ritual of romance! (It is perhaps here where the expression truly began: when life gives you lemons, make lemonade.) So who was this guy Valentine anyway? Well, records don’t exist, and so one legend is as close to the truth as any other. It is known that the Church selected a single saint, St. Valentine (aka Valentinus), to battle the pagan goddess, Juno. Juno was also known to the Romans as the goddess of women and marriage. Valentinus had been martyred on February 14 around the year 270 and ironically, by all records was a chaste man, unschooled in the art of love. According to one legend, Valentinus ignored a royal decree from Emperor Claudius II (also affectionately known as Claudius the Cruel) that forbade all marriages and betrothals. The law was imposed because the king believed that the reason he could not get soldiers to join his military leagues was because they didn’t want to leave their loves and/or family. (He did not realize that his winning personality and terrible halitosis were among the real reasons he could find no true followers.) Valentinus was a priest and in this capacity along with another one, Saint Marias, aided the Christian martyrs and secretly married couples. Supposedly caught in the act of conducting a ceremony (and he didn’t even get a piece of wedding cake), Valentinus was imprisoned and condemned to be beaten to death with clubs. If that didn’t do the job, there were further instructions to cut off his head.

As the story goes (and it does get better), while imprisoned the future saint cured a girl (the jailer’s daughter) of her blindness. She fell madly in love with Valentinus and on the eve of his execution, he managed to slip a parting message to her. The note was, can you guess, signed “From your Valentine.” (It is rumored that she was the ancestor of a group of people who much later learned to care enough to send the very best.) Despite the consistent efforts of the church, Valentine’s Day continued to echo Lupercalla in the respect that men and women, married or single, continued to draw lots to select a “valentine.” Once paired, the couple exchanged gifts and love tokens. This custom persisted well into the 18th century, although gradually the gift giving became solely the responsibility of the man. This helped to bring an end to the random drawing of names, since many men did not appreciate having to buy costly gifts for women who were not of their own choosing. Free selection also gave a much more serious twist to the concept of couples. Written valentines made their first appearance in 1415. The imprisoned Charles, Duke of Orleans, fought his lonely confinement by writing romantic verses to his wife. By the sixteenth century written valentines were so popular that St. Francis de Sales, fearing for the souls of his English flock, sermonized against them. Manufactured cards, decorated with cupids and hearts, appeared near the end of the eighteenth century. Even into the nineteenth century, there was no more popular way to declare one’s undying love and affection than through the words of a purchased valentine card. Many of the cards were true objects d’art, hand-painted and often lavishly decorated with lace, silk or satin flowers (many made from the feathers of tropical birds), glass filigrees, gold-leaf and even perfumed sachets! In an odd twist, the popularity of Valentine’s Day had a major effect on the development of the modern post office. Until the mid 1800s, the cost of sending mail was prohibitive and far beyond the range of the average person. The recipient and not the sender usually demanded payment for mail. A woman receiving a card from an ardent admirer that spoke of her priceless love had to pay for that compliment. Until the advent of the penny post, valentines were mostly hand delivered by the prospective lover. The cold hand of technology has also found its way into the Valentine custom. Today, a card is hardly enough as a declaration of affection; usually chocolates and flowers accompany it and sometimes even more. But the card reflects our modern times and one can find, without searching too long, cards that play romantic music, let you record a romantic and/or steamy message and even a scratch and sniff card, which works well if you are a Cocker Spaniel and shy about declaring your love. And so my friends, whatever your tastes and preferences, there is a card somewhere that will suit everyone, just as the old saying goes, ‘There is a cover for every pot.’ Just be careful what you put on your stove. There is not only the danger of burning whatever it is, but also the chance of igniting one that may never go out. It’s up to you, for as Smoky the Bear said so many years ago, “only you can prevent forest fires.”

Centara Grand Beach Resort

Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas Krabi

Centara Grand Beach Resort

rabi is an area that epitomizes the ethereal but rugged beauty of the Andamans. Set in the paradise bay of Pai Plong is the Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas Krabi – a place where luxury meets beauty and peace meets nature. The Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas Krabi retains a traditional Thai feel and the architecture invokes the maritime splendors of southern Siam past. The resort offers extensive facilities and elegantly appointed rooms and private villas, perfectly complementing the idyllic surroundings. Dark wood, crisp linen, soft light and a feeling of soaring space all contribute to the uniquely relaxing atmosphere. Add into the mix the fact that the Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas is equipped with every modern convenience you might need, and you arrive at the reality that it is a place where nature and the modern world exist in perfect balance. If you want something busier than oceanic tranquility, the Centara Grand Beach Resort is also just minutes away from the main tourist resort area of Ao Nang Beach, giving you the best of both worlds – natural calm or top flight restaurants, night clubs and bars. The hotel itself sits majestically in the bay fronted by a beautiful white sand beach of some 500 meters and backed by verdant limestone cliffs. It is also only 40 minutes from Krabi International Airport and 150 minutes from Phuket.

There is a range of choices of premium and deluxe villas both garden facing and ocean facing. Two luxury swimming pools echo the azure ocean – the pefect place to enjoy dinner, cocktails or simply marvel at the breathtaking limestone karsts that dot thesurrounding ocean.

The Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas Krabi offers 192 luxury garden view and ocean-facing rooms. All rooms feature a minimum size of 72 sq. meters and extensive “living-room-style” terraces complete with a lounging and dining area. Guest rooms feature spacious bathrooms with extra-deep baths and heavenly rain showers, flat screen TVs with international TV channels, in-room safe, mini-bar, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer, and high speed internet access.

Ao Nang, situated about 20 kilometers from Krabi town, is a large bay with scenic beaches and 83 small islands. Its white sandy beach stretches to the foot of a conspicuously prominent limestone range. It is a busy little place with dive shops, boats for rent, restaurants and bars. From Ao Nang, tourists can hire boats to visit nearby attractions such as Koh Poda, Koh Kai, Koh Mo, and Koh That. These beautiful islands are a great place to spot the vibrant and colourful

The extensive dining facilities has international, Thai and Japanese food. As well there is the ‘On the Rocks’ Beach Bar and Grill where you can enjoy something al fresco near the lapping, clear water. The Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas Krabi is the perfect base from which to explore the glories of the Andamans. The Phi Phi Islands are located just 40 km. away from both Krabi and Phuket. Regarded by travelers from all walks of life as being among the most beautiful tropical areas of the world, Phi Phi has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand. In addition, the islands are famous as the location where the movie The Beach featuring Leonardo Di Caprio was shot. The islands, together with the nearby Noppharat Thara Beach, span a total area of 390 sq. kilometers, were recently established as a national park. Places to visit include Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Le, Maya Bay and Viking Cave.

Centara Grand Beach Resort

shoals of fish darting around in the shallows. Alternatively you can walk to Hat Tham Phra Nang and Hat Nam Mao, both of which are only accessible by foot. You can also walk to Ao Nang from the Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas since it is only one bay away. The resort supports Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Park Services with a flood lit wooden walkway. The walkway is steep in places so it is not suitable for either the very young or the very old. Nearby Hat Rai Le, or Rai Le Beach, is generally divided into two sections: east and west. West Rai Le provides visitors with peace and quiet, as it is a broad and sandy beach with fewer facilities than Ao Nang. East Rai Le, which lies across the peninsula from West Rai Le, is different from other beaches in the area as it could actually be more accurately classified as a mud flat, especially during low tide. In addition, to remarkable views and mangrove forests to the north of the beach, the main attraction for visitors to Hat Rai Le is the adrenaline pumping activity of cliff climbing. The limestone cliffs provide world-class rock climbing facilities against a stunning backdrop of the sea with approximately 700 sport routes of mid to high difficulty ratings. Hat Tham Phra Nang is accessible only by boat. This stunning pristine beach has fine-grained white sand and crystalline waters as well as magnificent jagged karsts. Although thousands of visitors flock to this beach a year, it is still able to maintain its flawless appearance and relaxing ambience, and it is considered to be the most attractive beach in the area. The inner and outer Phra Nang caves offer remarkable views against a stunning backdrop. Although these attractions are accessible only by boat, they still draw numerous visitors for recreational and adventurous activities,

such as diving, snorkeling, hiking and rock climbing. Khao Khanap Nam, regarded as the symbol of Krabi, is actually two mountains that are both roughly 100 meters tall and separated by Krabi River. Khao Khanap Nam has beautiful caves with amazing stalactites and stalagmites that are definitely worth exploring. In addition to natural attractions, a large number of human skeletons have been found here. It is thought by experts that they are the remains of people who came and established a home at Kanab Nam, but were cut off by high water and quickly perished. The mountains can be reached by taking a 15-minute long tail boat ride from Chao Fa Pier. Hong Island consists of a group of limestone islands, including Koh Lao (Koh Sa Ka), Koh Lao Riam, Koh Pakka, Koh Lao La Ding, and Koh Hong (Koh Lao Li Pe). The attractions of these islands include fine beaches, shallow and deep-water coral reefs, and various kinds of fish while popular activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, sea canoeing, and nature studies on the 400 meter hiking trail around Koh Hong. Hong Islands is located at the edge of the Than Bok Khorani National Park and is accessible by a 1-hour boat trip from Ao Nang. Located just 500 meters from Tham Lot, Phi Hua To Cave can only be visited by boat from Bo Tho Pier. The cave is in Phi Hua To Mountain, which is surrounded by mangrove swamps. There are 2 different paths inside the cave. On the left lies the shortcut to the back of the cave, where the sunlight can shine through. On the right is a path to a natural hall believed to have been a shelter for prehistoric people. Prehistoric paintings of men, animals, human organs, and

Centara Grand Beach Resort

numerous seashells can be seen in the cave. The discovery of big human skulls resulted in the cave’s present name. Once you are done sightseeing and exploring, Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi offers an impressive collection of activities for all ages - SPA Cenvaree, The Fitness Centre, PADI Dive Centre, Boating and Windsurfing. The options are endless. Younger guests are not forgotten with a professionally managed Kid’s Club and play areas. There is also ‘Camp Safari’ where all kids aged 4 through 9 participate in as many activities as possible. Teenagers can enjoy the ‘E-Zone’ which offers the best and the latest in entertainment, it is designed to provide a separate area for the older ones, so they are not mixing with the really little ones. All E-Zones are equipped with a selection of video games consoles such as PlayStation, Nintendo Wii, and computer games. If your plans for the near future include tying the knot, the Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas can readily provide for every little thing that could possibly be needed for a wedding – starting from the arrangements of traditional lustral water ceremony to the reception, and more. A wedding reception comes with a host of extras by way of decorative ice sculptures, a flower arch and stands, traditional garlands and corsages for the wedding party, guest books, a multi-tiered cake, and much more. There is a choice of wedding packages. The future bride and groom can meet personally with the experienced team and discuss plans for the big day at their leisure amid the elegant confines of the purpose built Wedding Studio. Then there is the spa Cenvaree – the ultimate in pampering and relaxation. Guided by the three pillars of well-being, “Body”, “Mind”, “Soul”, the Cenvaree philosophy is based on the holistic theme of achieving

life balance by treating these 3 pillars as one, in the belief ailments originate from the imbalance of the 3 pillars. Embracing the concept of water as our source of life, each spa experience takes you on a voyage of pure bliss through the healing powers of water complemented by the curative elements of Thai herbs, aromatherapy, flower essence and human touch. Each sensory spa journey begins with water cleansing, aroma breathing and body therapies adapted to your own sense of wellness. Whatever path your own spa journey takes you on, Cenvaree rituals are designed to restore, replenish and renew the body, mind and soul. Krabi is blessed by an impossible beauty that is almost science fiction. Centara Hotel and Resorts fits in seamlessly with tasteful, traditional splendor – the perfect place to enjoy all that nature has to offer. Centara places great importance on operating on its businesses and operations to a high degree of ethical, social and environmental responsibilities. Centara’s key initiatives encompass community involvement, eco–technology awareness, education and environmentally beneficial products. In late 2007, the Centara Hotels and Resorts Social and Environmental Responsibility Policy was established to provide a more measureable approach to its sustainable activities. Internationally – recognized advisory group EC3 Global helped develop and implement a benchmarking system to measure progress at all hotels and covering all business operations. All Centara Villas are expected to be benchmarked for water, waste and energy consumption by EC3 Global by the second quarter of 2010.

For further information visit www.centarakrabi.com

Centara Grand Beach Resort

Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic Surgeryâ&#x20AC;Ś. To do it or not to do it? That is the question! By Susan Hunter

Cosmetic Surgery

ver many centuries, it was normal for people to control the shape of their bodies by corsetry and petticoat constructions. But now many people have their figure faults corrected by cosmetic surgery. Interestingly, plastic surgery was originally developed thousands of years ago in India for treating injuries and birth defects. And in as much as plastic surgery is still conducted to rectify such problems, nowadays it has become a reality of daily living for many people to undergo such surgery for fashion and image reasons only. Just over a century ago in 1885 when local anaesthetics were invented, surgeons began performing various cosmetic operations. In 1901 the first face lift was done by Eugene Hollander of Berlin. The wealthy liked face lifts. A face lift meant they could actually buy some youth, even though the body cells were ageing. Then in the 1920s some women endured breast reductions so they could wear the flat boyish fashions! By the 1930s the breast in all its glory was soon back in fashion. The fuller the bosom the better. Expensive surgical enlargement was often done for people such as actresses, but not talked about much. Nowadays people with ordinary incomes view breast enlargement as their right to satisfy emotional and fashionable needs. People of every age group have become obsessed by their body image. Older teenage girls particularly favour breast implants. Liposuction, tummy tucks, nose jobs, eyelid lifts, lip manipulation

and implants have all become popular in search of the ideal silhouette. And it’s easy to find clinics that perform these operations, almost like going to the dentist in your lunch break for some treatments! But is this the way of the future? We know that when people submit them selves for initial consultations for such cosmetic surgery they are asked numerous questions on how they feel about their self image, their confidence and what had led them to walk into the clinic to undertake something so radical. There are more options these days for non-invasive treatments for the face and body: using products such as Ultrashape (using ultrasound energy), Zerona (low laser treatments) or Debussy Thermodermie (using infrared radiation) for body treatments, and for facial treatments: CACI, NuSkin, TUA VISO (a hydro electronic unit for facial exercise) which negate the need for facelifts. Between you and me, I had heard that the Duchess of Cornwall (Camilla Parker-Bowles) who married Prince Charles in the UK, used such non-invasive treatment to make her look radiant on her wedding day (and it worked!). Keeping your skin out of the sun or at least applying a very high sunblock also keeps the skin hydrated, wrinkle free and young looking. Look at Joan Collins, the actress, who has followed a strict regime for looking after herself and she certainly doesn’t look her age. Some people will argue that ‘beauty is skin deep’; others will say “it’s all about the inner beauty that shines through…..look beyond the outer image”. At the end of the day which camp do you fall into? If we lead healthy lives with the correct nutrition, food intake, good cleansing and toning of the skin, and exercise to let the skin breathe,

Cosmetic Surgery toning up our muscles and strengthening the core it’s possible to look and act “as young as you feel”. Today the 70 year olds are yester years’ 50 year olds. We are expected to live well into our 90s and possible 100s if we lead well balanced lives. So in that vein the ball is in our court to take action and look and feel great. Some people prefer to undergo the knife with facelifts, tummy tucks and in some cases gastric bands. Others are happy to pop to have Botox in their lunch breaks. Whatever method you choose, think about the following: For cosmetic surgery: seek professional advice, get feedback from people you know who have had treatment and don’t be afraid to ask the clinics for references you can follow up on to decide the route you want to take. Recommendations count for a lot. Do your own research and make sure you feel comfortable with the surgeon who will do the work on you. For the non-invasive option: there are many available today. Check out your local beauty salons for options such a Genie Machine, CACI. You can purchase hydro electronic machines for the face via the internet (such as Tua Viso – check out their website: www.tuaviso.com). Overall: Drink lots of water, eat healthily, cut out smoking and drinking, exercise sensibly and most of all BE HAPPY WITH YOURSELF! When you’re happy and confident about the inner and outer you, you will exude an amazing aura that people will notice automatically. Now isn’t that worth aiming for? Note: do send us your experience with either cosmetic surgery or non-invasive treatments. We’re always interested to hear our readers’ views!

Cosmetic Surgery

Centara Grand Beach Resort

AWAY MAERIM is the perfect place to renew the balance of body and soul and appreciate life to the

fullest. Experience the ultimate embrace of the Maerim Valley amidst supreme tranquility and the majesty of pristine nature. Get away from the ordinary holiday experience and enjoy the harmony and privacy of the unspoiled surroundings in the north of Thailand.

Centara Grand Beach Resort

Ocean’s Elite Charters

Ocean's Elite Charters

Explore the wondrous islands of Thailand at your leisure By Dimitri Waring

Looking for adventure or just a great time out at sea? One of the best things to do when you come to Samui is to take to the water and explore the surrounding areas. There’s plenty to see. You’ll be amazed at the beauty that is to be discovered less than an hour’s sailing from the island. Sadly, too few people are aware of the natural treasures to be found off-shore, but that means that whoever ventures out to these exotic locations will be able to enjoy them without crowds of people. The most stylish way is to charter your own yacht, and this can easily be done on Koh Samui, thanks to Ocean’s Elite Charters. The company is the brainchild of Rahul Misra, who owns La Madrina, a Princess V45 sports cruiser which has every luxury on board. It has sleeping accommodation for up to six people in two cabins, with en suite shower rooms. On-board catering focuses on Mediterranean-style fare for day trips, but if guests want to stay overnight, then they are taken to shore side restaurants. Most dietary needs can be accommodated by the chef. Parties are also possible, with a maximum of 10 guests, and La Madrina can host small corporate events; as well as birthdays and stag nights. Ocean’s Elite Charters can take you to any of the magnificent destinations in the local area. Just one example of a cruise they offer is a day out at the extraordinary Ang-thong National Park, which is a wonder world of small, and not so small, islets, most of which are completely uninhabited. As the yacht cruises in, you see water that varies in color from blue to turquoise, and it is always very clear. Swim and snorkel here, and you will see the diversity of the marine life at hand.

Ocean’s Elite Charters

The islands themselves are limestone, and many present oddly contorted shapes. They’re a haven for flora and fauna, and the beaches are exactly what you dreamed of when you think of tropical coasts: white sands that slope down to very swimmable waters. It’s a lot of fun just being here, and thanks to the tailor-made service you’ll be to be able to spend as long as you want on the islands. Ocean’s Elite Charters also know how to keep away from the crowds. Other destinations they offer are Koh Pha-ngan and Koh Tao – they will take you to the best spots, places which you wouldn’t normally otherwise be able to get to. They can help you plan your day and thereby maximize your enjoyment. Few other companies are able to offer such benefits. You can opt for anything from a simple sunset cruise to a 2 day excursion, with a night on board. The service also comes fully insured, with safety being of paramount importance. La Madrina complies with all regulations and carries 2 VHF radios, radar, and all the latest navigating equipment, including a GPS system. You can just sit back and relax, knowing you are in good hands. The Ocean’s Elite team will pick you up at your hotel, either by van or by boat, depending on where you are heading. At the end of your day, they will naturally drop you off again. Priding themselves on running a highly customized service, Ocean’s Elite Charters are able to professionally address your every need.

Contact details: Tom Milner tel: 077 427 244 and 089 288 6404 Web: www.oceanselitecharters.com Location: Bangrak, Koh Samui

Oceanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Elite Charters

Ashley Greene

shley Greene initially planned to become a model, but was told that she was not tall enough at 5’5” to be a runway model and should instead focus on commercials, although everyone agrees she is most definitely beautiful enough to be a model. After taking commercial and acting classes, she fell in love with acting and realized that she preferred it over modeling. Greene thus graduated from high school early at the age of 17 and moved to Los Angeles, California to pursue an acting career. Since then, she has appeared as a guest on many popular television programs, such as Punk’d and Crossing Jordan. Greene’s big break came in 2008 when she was cast as Alice Cullen in Twilight, a film based on the novel of the same name by Stephenie Meyer. She reprised her role as Alice in the 2009 sequel to Twilight, The Twilight Saga: New Moon, and 2010’s The Twilight Saga: Eclipse. Greene will be reuniting with her Twilight co-star Kellan Lutz in the upcoming movie Warrior and will also be starring in an upcoming thriller film, Summer’s Blood, as well as the Dark Castle production The Apparition, which will begin filming on February 1, 2010 in Berlin, Germany. There is nothing like a role in hot hit flick Twilight to break you into show business. That is the case for Ashley Greene, who had spent most of her time in Hollywood as a hostess in an L.A. restaurant prior to her fame-making role as Alice Cullen. Of course the second Twilight film, New Moon, serves up more of the romantic entanglements between high school student Bella (Kristen Stewart), brooding vampire Edward (Robert Pattinson) and werewolf Jacob (Taylor Lautner), but it also has more of Alice Cullen, Edward’s pretty ‘younger’ sister. Ashley Greene returns as Alice, and this time around there’s much

Ashley Greene more for the vampire who can see the future to do. Not only is her role greatly increased from Twilight, as Alice, Greene had the opportunity to drive a screaming yellow Porsche around Italy and to wear the most fashionable wardrobe of anyone in New Moon. It was midway through her senior year at Wolfson High School, and Ashley Greene had leaving on her mind. “Christmas break, I just kind of left,” she says. “I did not really want to highly publicize that, yeah, ‘I am going to California to try to become an actress.’ But it ended up getting around. Nobody can keep anything secret in high school.” Her plan seems to be working out just fine. Greene plays high school vampire Alice Cullen in the smoking hot hit Twilight and the just released Twilight: New Moon, and has signed to start work on the sequel The Twilight Saga: Eclipse. She is modeling high fashion in CosmoGirl, and she is giving steamy comehither looks in the new Maxim magazine, where the headline reads “Blood Lust,” and big print features the teasing words, “Sometimes I wish I had a boyfriend.”

Ashley Greene Ashley Greene is young, beautiful, talented and in demand: After scrapping for work, Greene says she is now able to pick and choose from many offers. Greene wants to be in an action movie, after the high-flying wire stunts in Twilight (“It is like being in a roller coaster, except there is no coaster around you”). She wants to be Wonder Woman. She wants to do a serious drama. She wants to be in a Marvel Comics’ film. She wants to do a period piece, in costume. And she really, really wants to be a Bond girl. Just one problem, “I do not know if I am old enough yet. But give me time.” Greene turned 21 while shooting Twilight in rainy Oregon, but there were not enough hours in the day for a big celebration. She had a 5 a.m. call time for the next day and little interest in sleeping through it. But co-stars Jackson Rathbone and Kellan Lutz had other plans, “They dragged me out of bed, we had a shot, and then went back home and back to sleep.” But that is almost ancient history. “I can not believe it,” Greene says. “I turn 23 in February. They are right - time flies so fast.” “Hollywood’s fine,” she says. But she misses her hometown, her beloved Florida Gators, the water, the beaches, and the heat. And there is more, “There are certain things they do not have in L.A., which drives me nuts,” she says. “Barbecue and shrimp sauce at Japanese steak houses, and clear soup at Japanese restaurants. I miss it.” Greene grew up in Middleburg and Jacksonville, and went to University Christian School before transferring to Wolfson in the 10th grade. She was a cheerleader at University Christian, and then cheered for an all-star competition squad. She won awards in tae kwan do. Acting and dance classes took up hours every day. She was in honors classes. She worked as a restaurant hostess. She modeled. “I was a pretty good kid,” she says. “I did not really have a boyfriend, really, until I was probably 16, which my parents were thrilled about. I was like, ‘I have no time for boys,’ and my dad was, ‘Yes, I think you are right.’“

Her only sibling, her brother Joe, 23, says she became interested in acting while in high school; she was not the kind of kid who was always performing skits in front of a video camera. That is when she started talking about going to California - she had an agent and a manager, and they said that is where she needed to be. “I think we all had confidence that she had all the skills and attitude to be one of the people who actually makes it out there, that it is something she had fall into,” Joe Greene says. “She is always been a social butterfly even though she is pretty, she is still real nice.” When she left Jacksonville, Ashley Greene was 17, with a semester left in school but enough credits to graduate. She headed for California to share an apartment with a couple of other aspiring actresses from Jacksonville, and she had the

Ashley Greene

support of her parents, Joe, who owns a concrete construction business, and Michele, who works for an insurance company. “I think it was more gutsy for my parents than it was for me,” she says. “It was what I wanted to do; it seemed logical to me. But my parents, for them to think, ‘Oh yeah, we will support you doing that at 17’ - that was a gutsy move for them. A lot of parents thought they were crazy, but they trusted me.” At first her mother went to California for a couple of weeks to help her get set up with water, power, phone; those kind of things. “I had no idea what any of that stuff was,” Greene says. “You do not realize how easy life is when you are living with your parents.” And it was not easy for her parents to let her go; they had seen the movies about the perils of Hollywood. “It was scary,” Michele Greene says. “There were a lot of late nights where we lay in bed and talked about it. But it is kind of a catch-22, if you raise your kid to follow their dreams, you are kind of on the hook.” They kept in touch, daily. Sometimes even more often; Ashley would occasionally get lost on the way to appointments in L.A., then call her mother in Jacksonville, who would look on the computer and tell her where to turn. Ashley’s father said his wife and daughter still talk on the phone just about every day.“I go to bed many nights and they are still on the phone, and my wife comes to bed two hours later.” After a slow start - her father says he almost made her come home, several times - she started getting TV roles. Then while she was home for Christmas, Ashley learned she had landed her star-making turn in Twilight. “That was a good Christmas,” Michele Greene says. As Alice, Ashley Greene wears a short wig, contacts and makeup that give her a vampirish pallor. “But I was pretty much that pale. I stayed out of the sun for a couple of months, then they put sunscreen on us, and then I was in Portland, Oregon which does not get much sun to begin with. I did not get any sun for six months.”The transformation worked, at least

in the opinion of Twilight author Stephenie Meyer, who told the Los Angeles Times that when she saw a picture of Greene, she thought, “You found Alice! Oh my gosh.” As Alice, Greene will have even bigger roles if all four books in Meyer’s series get turned into films. “I do not die, which is good,” she said. “I am in all the books.” In interviews, Greene often talks about Jacksonville and her family. She came home for Thanksgiving and came back home again for Christmas. She is encouraging her brother to move to California after he has finished at the University of North Florida to try acting and to be near her. She even took her brother as her date to the Hollywood premiere of Twilight. He remembers photographers yelling at him to get out of the picture, and thousands of fans screaming non-stop. Ashley Greene admits the sudden fame sometimes seems unreal. “There are certain points where I can actually sit down, where I can breathe, when I am not working. Over the Thanksgiving break I was talking to my mom and I am like, ‘What is going on? How did this happen?’”

Ashley Greene

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The Beach by Absolute By Trudy Parker

ocated on the southern peninsula of the stunningly beautiful tropical island of Koh Samui, with its unspoiled beaches and magnificent views, it’s not hard to see why Tong Krut has been chosen by Absolute as the location to build their latest luxury designer development. There is a relaxed and yet sophisticated atmosphere about Koh Samui, which is why many A-list Hollywood celebrities choose to have their holidays and, indeed, holiday homes there. (Owen Wilson and David Beckham are just a couple of names that keep echoing around the island.) With such glorious, white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, it’s not so difficult to see why this is such a desired location to so many people globally. In particular, the south of Koh Samui is renowned for its more relaxed tempo compared to the north of the island. So all in all, though access to the hustle and bustle of the shopping and nightlife in the Chaweng area is but 35 minutes away; life is about choices, and the south offers exactly that, amazing choice. The development itself is breath taking and utterly distinctive of Absolute’s vision for style and design that holds longevity in its architectural content. Being called “The Beach by Absolute” this luxurious resort holds serious potential for global recognition for its simplistic and yet distinctive branding.

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Architecturally, the beachfront development consists of three levels, consisting of “Beach Suites”, “Sub-Penthouses Suites” and top floor “Penthouse Suites”. The Beach Suites and Penthouse Suites are being offered for sale on a fractional ownership basis using Absolute’s long established and successful Fractional Ownership scheme, thus leaving the 2nd floor units to be sold through Absolute’s equally successful Vacation Club program. In brief, fractional ownership has the gilt-edged added value benefits of exclusive use of one of Absolute’s fleet of their 30’ Gulcraft speedboats; which are fully insured and carry a licensed captain and first mate for 2 days a week. In addition, there is use of Callaway golf clubs and VIP airport transfers in a highly comfortable Toyota Fortuners. Absolute’s new boutique resort is being built with only 17 deluxe 75-90sqm units, each with breathtaking sea views. The units will consist of living, dining and kitchen areas and bedrooms and bathrooms; all built with European/Western standards. As with all Absolute developments, the suites will be furnished with top of the range furnishings and fittings. There is also a balcony with the added luxury of a Jacuzzi. Definitive furnishings, designs and color schemes have not yet been finalized but the suites will certainly not disappoint when the international and award winning design team have finished working their magic. The Beach by Absolute is to be managed by Absolute with the resort having its own private swimming pool, restaurant and bar. Full on-site concierge services will be available, including 24-hour security for your added peace of mind. The development of this distinguished resort has been designed for the select few who choose to integrate essential luxuries and lifestyle into their vacation portfolios. The Absolute World Group are certainly leading the way and reaffirming their place as becoming the luxury brand leader of ownership resorts in Asia, providing quality vacation homes for an executive lifestyle.

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Kudos

West coast dining delights at Kudos

ust opened Kudos Restaurant and Beach Bar is a sophisticated new addition to the island’s already opulent choices for drinking and dining, and is set to become one of the top venues for a meal or drink in Lipanoi and the surrounding areas. The bar exudes a sleek, almost clubby charm with ultra modern architecture and deep, comfy leather armchairs – an excellent place for a cocktail or long drink. Kudos has a select range of cigars, too. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed and it’s easy to feel pleasantly at home here very quickly. Dining is a treat, with four different areas. You can dine in the bar itself – think white tablecloths, and highly polished cutlery, and perhaps best of all, seating that’s actually comfortable (not to be taken for granted on Koh Samui, where fine dining can involve bare wood). Sea views are assured – from the moment you walk in to the lobby, you can seethe ocean itself. The other dining areas are in separate mid-size salas, with plenty of space between tables, so you never feel cramped up with your neighbor. The salas are close to the sea and with high ceilings and pillars instead of walls and allow dining to have a very open-air feel. Expect dinner to be a romantic tête-à-tête or convivial. Kudos boasts a beach bar, too, with a choice of stools by the bar itself or large cube-like seats. Again, this is a wonderful place for a drink while watching the sun go down. If you like you can dine completely al fresco; there’s a terrace just a few steps from the sands. Nestling on a beach of its own, Kudos is set in a remarkably beautiful location, facing the enigmatic Five Islands, rocky outcrops a mile out to sea, famous for their strangely contorted shapes. This is the island’s west coast, which has a get-away-from-it-all feel and is extremely scenic.

Sunsets here tend to be very varied to say the least. With the Five Islands out to sea, and more distantly the Ang-thong Marine Park, the play of the sun on the outcrops and the water can be dramatic. Towering clouds often give the end of the day a grandiose finale. You can watch it all from Kudos. The menu is International and Thai, and international here means more than a nod towards Italian cuisine: try the range of pizzas, or pasta and lasagna. Kudos imports choice New Zealand tenderloin too, so if you’re hankering after a serious steak, this is one place you’re sure to find it. Whether you come for a snack, lunch or a full-scale dinner, Kudos has an extremely attractive menu featuring a great variety of dishes. Prices remain very reasonable, and won’t leave you out of pocket. Wine lovers won’t be disappointed, either, as Kudos has its own wine cellar. Kudos is the brain child of Manager Mark Landers and his architect who have together put together this extraordinarily contemporary restaurant – you’d be more likely to come across something like this in a major city. Placing it right by the sea on a tropical island has worked out well. Mark has a flair for mixing great locations and modern architecture. He’s in charge of The Place, a well-known luxury development right next door. Whether you come here to dine or to live, or even both, the venue is an excellent one. Kudos at The Place is located 5 kms south of Nathon on the coast road. The restaurant also caters for parties of all kinds and the occasional fashion show. It’s naturally a great place to hold weddings and receptions, too. Contact details: Mark Landers. Tel: 081 950 734 Email: mark@kudostheplace.com info@kudostheplace.com

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SPACE TOURISM

by Peter Holthusen

s r e i t n o r F e h t g n i y l F

n the morning of 14 October 1947, United States Air Force Captain Charles ‘Chuck’ Yeager established aviation history by piloting the rocket-powered Bell X-1 through the ‘sound barrier’. Dropped from the bomb shackles on the belly of a B-29 bomber at an altitude of 42,000 feet, Yeager relied totally on his four rocket engines developing 6,000 pounds of thrust to launch the bright orange Bell X-1 “Glamorous Glennis” to a speed of 670 mph across the indigo sky, high above the Mojave Desert at the legendary Edwards Air Force Base, California. It is now over 60 years since Yeager, the man they said had “The Right Stuff” broke the illusive ‘sound barrier’, an accomplishment that spawned supersonic flight and took man to the stars and beyond. The development of the rocket features in history as a series of devastating and often awe-inspiring events. The extent of the rocket’s potential, for both good and evil, has only become fully apparent within the last two decades, although man’s discovery of the nature of reactive flight spans two millennia. The rocket embodies its own peculiar technology which gives it the unique ability to propel itself in a vacuum, thereby being the only means of transportation, yet devised by man, capable of travelling beyond the Earth’s atmosphere. Giant rockets such as the Saturn V, which launched man to the Moon and were thought to symbolize the shape of things to come are now obsolete museum pieces and in all probability their like will not be seen again, at least not in the West. The current generation of space vehicles has until now, been dominated by the reusable Space Shuttle - a

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mix of rocket and glider whose operating costs per payload represent a fraction of their giant predecessors, but thanks to the pioneering dreams of a few entrepreneurs, the possibility of us all travelling into space has now become a reality. During the 1960s and 1970s, it was commonly thought that “Space Hotels” would be launched by 2000. Many futurists even speculated that by the beginning of the 21st century the average family would be able to enjoy a holiday on the Moon. The American airline Pan Am even established a waiting list for future flights to the Moon, issuing free “First Moon Flight Club” membership cards to those who requested them. The US ‘Space Shuttle’ program has always included payload specialists which were usually filled by representatives of companies or scientific institutions managing a specific payload on that mission, but who had no formal NASA astronaut training. In 1983, Ulf Merbold, an engineer from ESA and Byron Lichtenberg from MIT, a former US Air Force fighter pilot became the first payload specialists to fly on the Shuttle, but it was Christa McAuliffe, the high school teacher from Concord, New Hampshire who would have been the first true civilian in space, but she was killed with six other astronauts in the

1986 ‘Challenger’ disaster. Several years later, The Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS) offered to pay for one of its reporters to fly on a mission. For $28 million, Toyohiro Akiyama was flown in 1990 to the Mir Space Station with the eighth crew and returned to earth 10 days later with the seventh crew, filing news reports in zero-G. In 1991, British chemist Helen Sharman was selected from a pool of 13,000 applicants to be the first Briton in space. The program was known as ‘Project Juno’ and was a cooperative arrangement between the Soviet Union and a group of British companies. The consortium had raised funds for Sharman to fly to the Mir Space Station aboard the Soyuz TM-12 launch vehicle and return on the Soyuz TM-11. But it wasn’t until 28 April 2001, that Dennis Tito, a 60-year-old Californian money manager and multi-millionaire, became the first “fare-paying” passenger on a space mission when he visited the International Space Station (ISS) for seven days – single-handedly throwing open the doors to space tourism in the process. Others soon followed in Tito’s footsteps, for in 2002 South African computer millionaire Mark Shuttleworth

SPACE TOURISM was launched into orbit onboard the Soyuz TM-34. After the Columbia ‘Space Shuttle’ disaster in 2003, space tourism on the Russian Soyuz program was temporarily suspended, because the Soyuz vehicles became the only available transport to the ISS. However, space tourism was resumed two years later.The third passenger was American scientist Gregory Olsen in 2005, who used his time on the ISS to conduct a number of experiments. High-speed forays into space financed by corporate America continued with Iranian-American engineer and business woman, Anousheh Ansari in 2006. Then Charles Simonyi, the Hungarian-American computer software executive who, as head of Microsoft’s application software group, was launched into orbit on the Soyuz TMA-10 in 2007, and the TMA-14 in 2009, making him the first space tourist to fly twice. Subsequent orbital flights to the International Space Station were made in 2008 by Richard Garriott, an English-American video game developer and entrepreneur. On 4 June 2009, Space Adventures announced that Guy Laliberté, a Quebec businessman and founder of the ‘Cirque de Soleil’ would be flying into space onboard Soyuz TMA-16 to the ISS, as Canada’s first space tourist. Along with professional astronauts Jeff Williams and Maksim Surayev, he reached the ISS on 30 September 2009, returning to earth 12 days later aboard the Soyuz TMA-14.

first three participants paid in excess of $20 million each for their 10-days visits to the ISS. Their space tourists usually sign contracts with third parties to conduct certain research while in orbit, thus helping to minimize their own expenses. Space Adventures Ltd have also announced that they are working on a series of circumlunar missions to the Moon, with the price per passenger being $100 million, and they are currently developing spaceports at Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates and in Singapore. Other companies have also expressed interest in constructing “space hotels”. For example, Excalibur Almaz, the private international space exploration company based in the Isle of Man, plans to modernize and re-launch its Soviet-era ‘Almaz’ space stations, which will feature the largest windows ever on a spacecraft. Even Hilton International has plans to develop a space hotel with the Space Islands Project, an innovative concept connecting together two used Space Shuttle fuel tanks, each the diameter of a Boeing 747 aircraft.

All seven of the space tourists flew to and from the International Space Station on Soyuz spacecraft through the space tourism company, Space Adventures Ltd, in conjunction with the Federal Space Agency of the Russian Federation and the S.P. Korolev Rocket & Space Corporation (Energia).

More affordable suborbital space tourism is viewed as a money-making enterprise by several other companies, including the celebrated private rocket engine and spaceflight development company Armadillo Aerospace based in Mesquite, Texas, XCOR Aerospace, whose base is close to the birthplace of supersonic flight in the Mojave Desert, California, and Amazon.com founder Jeff Bezos’ UK-based spaceflight venture company Starchaser ‘Blue Origin’. But it is Sir Richard Branson and his Virgin Galactic team who are being taken most seriously, and for very good reason.

Founded in Virginia in 1998, they are the premier private space exploration company, and contrary to popular belief, the only organization providing opportunities for private space flights and tourism, and remain the only company to have actually sent paying passengers into space today. The

On 4 October 2004, the ‘SpaceShipOne’, designed by Burt Rutan of Scaled Composites, won the $10,000.000 Ansari X-Prize, which was conceived to be won by the first private company who could reach and surpass an altitude of 62 miles (100 km) twice within two weeks. The first flight

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was flown by Michael Melvill on 21 June 2004 to a height of 62 miles, making him the first commercial astronaut. The prize-winning flight was flown by Brian Binnie, which reached a staggering height of 69.6 miles, breaking the altitude record set by the X-15 rocket plane of the 1950s and 1960s. Virgin Galactic is planning to begin passenger service aboard the VSS Enterprise, with the Scaled Composites ‘SpaceShipTwo’, which was unveiled to the world in a spectacular launch ceremony at the Mojave Spaceport on 7 December 2009. The Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger and the Governor of New Mexico, Bill Richardson both contributed at the press conference, celebrating this huge milestone in aviation history. The SS2 will be attached to her WK2 mothership which was unveiled last year and named EVE, after Branson’s mother. The SS2 will be carried to an altitude of 50,000 feet before the spaceship is dropped and fires her hybrid rocket motor to launch into space. The new vehicle is capable of carrying up to 6 passenger astronauts and up to 2 pilot astronauts into space. Launches will initially occur at the Mojave Spaceport in California in 2011, and will then be moved to Spaceport America in Upham, New Mexico. The spacecraft will travel 360,000 feet (68.18 miles) high, and will last 2.5

hours, reaching speeds in excess of Mach 3. The initial price of a seat will be $200,000, but that price is expected to eventually fall to $20,000. To date, over 300 people have made down payments on bookings, so thanks to the pioneering spaceflights of those early astronauts and the team at Virgin Galactic, you could soon be joining an elite band of explorers who have slipped the bonds of gravity and reached for the stars. FURTHER INFORMATION Virgin Galactic www.virgingalactic.com Space Adventures www.spaceadventures.com The Space Tourism Society www.spacetourismsociety.org Energia www.energia.ru/english Excalibur Almaz www.excaliburalmaz.com

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Golf

The Race to Dubai

Who’s Winning and Who Won? By Graham Haslam

first thoughts about the season ending tournament for the European golf tour (don’t worry, I didn’t realise Dubai was in Europe either) was, “Who are the beneficiaries of another week’s golf where the prize money is $15,000,000?” Jumeirah Beach Hotel who put up the money, the players seeking a potentially huge pay day, or the fans that get to watch some of the world’s best golfers? Let’s look at each group. Jumeirah is building a huge complex with 800 villas that will surround the Jumeirah Estate’s Earth and Fire Neighbourhoods, and although still in the very early stages of development I am sure it will be an outstanding development when complete – along the lines of what you would expect from the company that bought the world the magnificent Palm and the beautiful Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

Golf

Singapore, was saying he is playing 7 tournaments on 3 continents (apparently he didn’t realise Dubai had moved to Europe either) in 9 weeks, this at a time of the year he traditionally plays only two or three tournaments. Anthony Kim decided two weeks before the tournament started that he needed a break to prepare for next year. This is a man who earned 750,000 Euros in 12 weeks of competition and could earn as much as $1.5 million in 4 days, but decided to rest this week instead. I am not sure I follow the logic exactly, but as a caddie on the Asian Tour, I can vouch for the fact playing week in and week out is incredibly strenuous, mentally and physically, and a season of travelling and crossing time zones is considerably harder than most spectators think. Take Retief Goosen’s schedule for example. From the middle of October: week 1 San Francisco for the President’s Cup, week 2 Europe Portugal Masters, week 3 Malaysia (defending the Johor Open), week 4 Europe Volvo World Match Play, week 5 China WGC, week 6 rest in the UK, week 7 Dubai. That is some travelling, crossing time zones, approximately 30 rounds of golf, and then he goes home to play 2 more events in South Africa before Christmas. I am not saying I feel sorry for the guy – although he deserves huge credit for defending his Johor Open that was two long flights he really could have done without. So maybe the fans are the winners, well it certainly helps that it was free all week to watch these great players swing a golf club – majestically so in the case of Ernie Els, but are we seeing the best golfers in Europe at their best? It is hard to say, and only after watching them will this be answered, certainly young Rory McIlroy showed no signs of tiring as he stormed home last week in Hong Kong to finish second, maybe being the most youthful competitor in the field will be to his advantage come Sunday. So it was with great excitement that I stood and watched the finest golfers Europe has to offer crack away on the 454 yard first hole. And suddenly all is forgotten, and a truly great golf tournament starts to unwind. So much for there being an advantage to the young whippersnappers as the seemingly ageless Robert Allenby rolled back the years as he turned in a fabulous 7under par 65 on the first day. I would say that the two youngest players McIlroy 68 and Chris Wood 66 where right there too. But it certainly is not that way now as the first Dubai World Championship is taking place. Worryingly for the organisers is that none of the dozen or so taxi drivers that I asked to take me to Jumeirah Estates Golf Course had ever heard of the place, let alone knew how to get there. Not one! After a frustrating 25 minutes at Emirates Golf Course (I was taken to the wrong golf course), I stopped a resident for assistance. This was a person who plays golf and is a resident of a golf course estate. When asked if she could help, she apologized and said she could not take me to the Jumeirah Golf Estates and was concerned for me and asked what my tee time was. I found this quite surprising that she did not know that at another golf course less than 20 kilometres from where she lived there was the richest golf tournament in the world. Jumeirah have 800 villas to sell, and I have no idea who is buying them or how they are going to get there to see them! The 60 players (actually only 58 turned up, it is only $15,000,000 after all) playing for this huge prize money are obviously the big winners here, or are they? Geoff Ogilvy, whilst in

This is happening on a golf course that has never been played before, and although the course was ready some time ago and kept in top playing condition, it is never really possible to know exactly how it is going to play, especially the greens. The accolades flowed all week about this magnificently designed Greg Norman course. The fairways are like carpet, the tee boxes are in better condition than the greens on most courses I play! As a spectator (and confirmed golf nerd) it was a treat to be a small part of golfing history. As the golf continued and the scores tumbled in, it started to become apparent that something other than youth and a good golf swing was going to play a major part in who would win the Dubai World Championship: Sheer desire to succeed, and the man who had that in spades was Nottinghamshire’s Lee Westwood. Lee won the European Order of Merit way back in 2000 before disappearing into the golf wilderness for 2 seasons.Those two years continue to act as a reminder of how quickly it can all disappear, and why nothing should be taken for granted. Whilst Lee has these painful memories to push him, in contradiction we have Rory McIlroy who seems to have known nothing but good times, a sentiment eerily similar to Westwood’s own position 9 years ago at 23 years of age.So with only 4 holes remaining on the penultimate round for 2009,Europe’s two top golfers were separated by only 2 shots and must have had the organizers dreaming of them playing in the final group on Sunday together. That’s when everything changed, Rory bogeyed the last 3 holes of the Golden Mile while Lee finished the last 4 holes with 2 under par, and suddenly the difference was 5 shots; and rather than youth ruling the aged,

Golf experience, nerves and great determination was trumping the raw talent. So the sun rose majestically over the desert promising a new dawn for Lee Westwood if he could just hold his nerve for 18 more holes. Queue a new course record, and a faultless display of golf! I have heard of winning in style, but what Lee Westwood did at the Race to Dubai – European Order of Merit, the Dubai World Championship tournament was done with Tigeresque domination over what really was a world class field. Eight birdies, no dropped shots, a course record and one of the biggest and most genuine smiles in world sports I have had the pleasure to witness. I arrived here at the start of the week with the general consensus of many of the pro golfers present that it was Rory McIlroy’s to lose and everyone present had no doubt that he would have his day in the limelight. Westwood’s consoling words for the defeated and disappointed McIlroy was along the lines of, “Poor guy, he is 20 years old, has a great golf game, hits the ball a mile and drives a Lamborghini; tough life hey?” Make no mistake McIlroy will be back, and not just chasing Lee Westwood, but also Tiger Woods and the world no.1 spot. Lee Westwood was nice enough to suggest that Ross McGowan (who finished second) and McIlroy really pushed him, but Westwood played so well he did it in a canter; safely parring the last 4 holes, and playing conservatively to ensure a comfortable win. So the answer to my questions in the title: well, Lee Westwood won it all in terms of money and trophies (except Rookie of the Year that went to the very impressive Chris Wood), but it would be remiss of me, even if a bit cheesy, if I was not to say that the real winner from the Race to Dubai was, of course, GOLF! For the chance to be a winner yourself, ensure you pick a copy of the next issue of Absolute Thai or go to our website www. AbsoluteThai.com as we are giving away the actual wedges used by Alvaro Quiros at the Dubai World Championships, complete with verification letter. These two magnificent wedges where collected from Mr Quiros as a donation to local charity Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation. We here at Absolute Thai have purchased these Callaway X Series 52 and 58 degree wedges to give away to one of our lucky readers. These excellent clubs would make a great addition to any sports room wall or even use them yourself – what better bragging rights could there be than ‘Hey, anyone else’ using clubs that were used on the European tour last year?!’

Golf

High...Hideaway Discover a hideaway in perfect harmony with nature. All the privacy and pampering awaits you at Silavadee Pool Spa Resort. Our name Silavadee means “beautiful rock” in Thai, as it’s located on Laem Nan Beach, between Chaweng and Lamai Beach, which has the most beautiful rock beach on Koh Samui. Imagine a resort located on a breathtaking scenic peninsula, like a world away from everything. You will be completely absorbed in the lush green landscape with our “Back to Nature” concept.

Guestroom Features :

19 Villas and 36 Deluxe Rooms with air conditioning, private balcony with day bed, bath & separate shower, CD/DVD player, iPOD touch with speaker, internet access. 19 of the villas have their own private infinityedged swimming pool with private outdoor living area and outdoor shower. The 4 suites also have a separate living room with bathroom.

Resort Facilities : World Luxury Hotel Awards WINNER 2009

The Height restaurant, Wine & Cigar Lounge, Pool Bar, Kayaking, Snorkeling, Silavadee Wellness Spa with 5 private pavilions, Gallery Shop, Library, Shuttle bus service to Chaweng and Lamai, Tour information and Wedding planner service.

208/66 Moo 4, Maret, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84310 Thailand Tel: +66(0)77-960-555 Fax: +66(0)77-960-055 info@silavadeeresort.com, rsvn@silavadeeresort.com www.silavadeeresort.com

Absolute At Panta

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Absolute At Panta

The Legend of Thai Villas

et in the misty interior of Phuket is, Absolute At Panta Phuket, The Legend of Thai Villas, is a traditional but luxurious getaway that brings you the best of Thai hospitality. It presents a true Thai style cultural retreat, encapsulated by meandering waterways, leafy walkways and dark wood surrounds. It is located in the historic and beautiful “Thalang” district in the centre of the Island, surrounded by farmlands, local villages, temples and markets – the heart of genuine Siam. It is the only resort on the island that offers a stay in a replica of a traditional Thai village. At Panta Phuket is everything truly Thai and in terms of Phuket, it is unique. A gracious lifestyle and an easy hospitality are part of the Thai way of life born of the Thai Heart, the Thai Smile and Thai Grace. The accommodation ranges through different styles depending on your needs. There are  28 beautiful deluxe rooms, which are larger than standard with tiled floors, marble and slate bathrooms. They also have a bathtub with an overhead shower, a large daybed and private furnished balconies. Then there are Traditional Thai Villas built in a traditional Thai style with interior design that echoes the exquisite beauties of silk and wood. The nine beautiful Traditional Thai Villas provide a cozy ambience with touches of true originality. Set amongst the gorgeous resort gardens are the Poolside Thai Villas. These are dotted around the free form swimming pool and backed by the meandering canals. All rooms are stand alone individual Villas offering the ultimate in privacy and Thai experience. They also have wireless Internet access throughout. Then there are the suites.

Absolute At Panta

One and two bedroom suites are decorated in a Thai style with stunning polished floorboards, high ceilings of paneled wood, Thai artwork and silk finishes. Each suite also has its own private furnished balcony discreetly hidden behind tropical farmland views. Hungry? Head over to the Leelawadee Restaurant where relaxing music sets the romantic atmosphere and diners can enjoy both outdoor and indoor dining by candlelight or dim light. Every week trendy themed outdoor dining by the canal features a selection of Thai favorite dishes, western steaks and seafood BBQ. To start off the evening drop by the Chaba cocktail bar. Simply relax and unwind with your favorite drink whilst playing a game of pool with your friends. Alternatively laze by the large freeform swimming pool with the aperitif of your choice. When it comes to wellness the Legend of Thai Villas offers the premium Dalah Spa and Beauty Parlour. There is a range of relaxing and therapeutic experiences on offer, with a choice of rejuvenating treatments such as body scrubs, facial treatment, relaxing massage foot reflexology, body exfoliation and Spa packages to choose from. It features a whirlpool, a Jacuzzi for four, a steam and sauna room, a beauty centre and two private massage rooms with a selection of treatments. Trained therapists will take pleasure in explaining each step of the treatments. Immerse yourself in a sanctuary of relaxation where body, mind and spirit can be fully restored. Be pampered at the Beauty Parlour, with hair treatments, shampoo and styling as well as manicure and pedicure treatments. Alternatively work out at the fully equipped

Absolute At Panta

fitness center and work up both a sweat and an appetite for all that is on offer. If you want to learn how to create a little taste of Thailand in your home country, sign up for Thai cooking classes where an expert chef will tutor you in how to create signature Thai dishes in an atmosphere of fun, or ‘sanuk’. They will explain the significance of galangal, coriander and lemongrass. Culinary secrets will be unlocked. On your return home dinner parties will never be the same again as you impress your diners with glorious, spicy creations direct from the dining tables of old Siam. Alternatively learn some traditional handicraft skills such as Thai hand garland making or batik painting. When it comes to activities Phuket is truly the queen of the Andamans. Diving and snorkeling is first rate with a huge number of locations where you can enjoy the glories of the deep from luxury boats enabling you to intersperse your fish spotting with a margarita or chilled white wine. Alternatively, harness the wind in a yacht and cruise by the limestone Andaman outcrops across the azure blue seas propelled only by the breath of nature. If you have fallen in love with the jungles of the interior explore them further using the most traditional vehicle of all – the sturdy elephant. Elephant trekking is offered at Legend of Thai Villas where the elephants are well looked after and the ‘mahouts’ or drivers control their movements with a happy smile. You patrol the jungle in charge of a warm blooded 4 by 4 swaying to the loping gait of these glorious creatures as they make their delicate stops on the jungle floor – the symbol of all that is Thai. If you are the sporty type why not go on

Absolute At Panta

a mountain bike tour of the island? Spectacular views and steep gradients make Phuket a challenging but rewarding place to don lycra and crank up the gears. When it comes to golf, Phuket is unmatched and a stay at Legend of Thai Villas gives you access to some of the best courses in the world. Banyan Tree, Blue Canyon, Mission Hills, Loch Palm and the Phuket Country Club are all within a short drive. They offer a range and variety of holes that will make the serious golfer swoon with expectation and delight. Then there are the beaches. The most developed beach is Patong. If it is excitement you are after then this is the place. The seafront is lined with restaurants, hotels and bars and the partying goes on late into the night. The beach is very good, pure white sand. During the day it as good a place as any to sunbathe, swim or read a book. In the evening the central area is lit by neon, the nightlife venues pump out dance music and the partying seemingly never stops. If you want to be close to the action, but not in it, head just north of Patong to Kamala. It is a lot quieter and still feels like the small fishing village it once was. The beach itself is superb. Nearby but more up market is Surin beach. Quite a lot further north are Bang Tao and Nai Thon. Nai Thon is very secluded, very quiet and very beautiful. Going south from Patong is Karon beach. This is large and uncluttered. Although not as raucous as Patong at night there are a good sprinkling of bars and restaurants. Next-door Kata beach is similar but quieter.

Not far from the Legend of Thai Villas is Phuket town itself. This is the functioning capital of the island and it boasts some fine Sino-Portuguese architecture with small colonnaded streets sheltering traditional Chinese shops and restaurants. At the end of your days excursions, head back to the resort, relax in the tranquil beauty of the jungled garden, listen to the cicadas chirp as you contemplate the evening before you â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a swim in the pool, a cocktail in the balmy air as the sun goes down, followed by a dinner of something tasty and exquisite Absolute At Panta Phuket 310/51 Moo 1, Baandon-Cherngtalay Rd., Thalang District. Phuket 83110 Thailand Tel : +66 7627 5002-14 F: +66 7627 5016 Email: relax@atpanta.com Absolute At Panta is a member of the Absolute Resorts & Hotel. If you would like to consider your resort to be managed and promoted by Absolute, contact K Supachart Ruamsamu. Email: Supachart@ARM.co,th Mobile +66 (0) 81 271 2970 Growing each month-follow us on Facebook or Twitter at

www.AbsoluteResorts.com.

Ferrari 458

Ferrari 458 Italia By Andrew Parker

ABSOLUTE PERFORMANCE Let me start by wishing you all a Happy New Year. Out with the old and in with the new. A new car, maybe! In this, the first Absolute Thai magazine of 2010, we take a look at the Ferrari 458 Italia. “IT’S A FERRARI” – What more can I say. No seriously, rumored to be called the F450 or F500, Ferrari finally settled on the F458, taking its name from its 4.5 liter V8 engine. This car is not only gifted in the looks department but it’s also shockingly fast. In fact it’s rumored to be faster than the Enzo. With Ferrari sales at an all time low over the past few years and most dealerships showing losses, as high as 30% in some cases, only time will tell if this latest Ferrari masterpiece will help them regain much needed sales, placing them back on top of the Supercar league.

Ferrari 458

Not so long ago, a V8 Ferrari was regarded as a ‘junior’ Ferrari. Those days have gone. The 458 Italia, the latest offering from Maranello, may have a mid-mounted 4.5-litre V8, but there is absolutely nothing ‘junior’ about it: 562bhp, 0-60mph in less than 3.4sec, a top speed beyond 200mph and a Fiorano lap time to match the Enzo see to that. An expected price tag of £160,000 (before options) also puts paid to any questions of seniority. The arrival of the 458 does, however, mean there are now two V8 models in Ferrari line-up: the folding metal-roofed California caters for those who want a little more comfort, leaving the 458 Italia, which replaces the F430, to focus on outright performance. Although the engines for both models start life from the same casting and both use direct injection, the 458 is stroked for a larger capacity and revs higher (to 9,000rpm). The result is the effective mid-range torque present in the California, but with much more top-end zeal. It is this combination that makes the 458 so much quicker than the F430. You’ll want to rev it for the noise and the drama but, crucially, you don’t need to. Paired with the engine is a twin-clutch gearbox with seven speeds, the same fitted in the California, but with ratios bespoke to the 458. This is the only transmission available, meaning that for the first time on a Ferrari there is no manual option. There’s some consolation in the fact that the DCT works exceptionally well, performing equally well at slow speeds as it does on track, delivering sufficient mechanical interaction in the process. With an engine and gearbox that together make it incredibly easy to reach quite frightening speeds ludicrously quickly, it is a relief that the 458 handles as well as it does. As a mid-engined Ferrari, it obviously has exceptional levels of agility. However, where the 458 makes a massive advance over the F430 is in front-end grip and exploitability: on a dry track the F430 was brilliant, but on a damp narrow road it could feel flighty and nervous. Although in some respects the 458 is sharper still, particularly the steering, it also manages to provide more feel and more confidence. Which not only makes it quicker, but more enjoyable too.

The improvements aren’t limited to the 458’s performance, though. The cabin also looks futuristic, is driver-centric and indulgent, but is also functional and comfortable. Likewise, the refinement and ride is impressive for a supercar. Although prices have yet to be confirmed, Ferrari has indicated that the 458 will be around 10% more expensive than the F430. The 458 is, however, so much more capable than the car it replaces, that even at this price it looks like a bargain. STYLING It will split opinion, but at least the 458 looks like a fresh chapter compared to the similar-looking 360M and F430. As usual, Ferrari has avoided overt spoilers and wings, preferring instead to work aerodynamic aids into the overall body shape. HANDLING Above all else, what is so impressive about the 458 is that it offers something for everyone. Partly through the clever electronics, partly because the chassis delivers precision and grip, but also in its feel and confidence, it will reward a professional on the track as much a novice out for a Sunday blast. COMFORT It’s a 200mph supercar, so obviously it’s not going to offer S-Class levels of comfort. But as supercars go, the 458 is impressively cosseting: the seats are comfortable, the ride isn’t too harsh and you could (should you feel like it) drive it to the south of France. QUALITY & RELIABILITY There’s the beautifully finished leather you expect in aFerrari and it’s nicely finished, but the logically placed switches are more of a surprise. The mandatory twin-clutch gearbox should also reduce the possibility of driver-induced damage to engine and transmission. Electronics, a Ferrari weak point, are an unknown.

Ferrari 458

combined economy of 21.2mpg isn’t too bad for a supercar. PERFORMANCE Epic. As impressive as the sheer outright level of performance is the accessibility. With flexibility, the engine will deliver real punch from anywhere beyond 3,000rpm, but if you want to keep the engine spinning near the 9,000rpm redline, seven forward speeds and near-instant shifts make it incredibly easy. ROOMINESS It only seats two, but there’s enough luggage space under the bonnet and behind the seats for several squashy bags. Pack lightly and there’s enough room for a week of touring. The cabin caters for drivers of all sizes with decent ergonomics. STEREO / SAT NAV Both the stereo and sat nav are displayed through one of two TFT screens placed either side of the rev counter. On the plus side, the screen is close to the driver’s line of sight, but it is on the small side. The stereo has good sound quality and a hard drive to store music files. RUNNING COSTS Clearly the 458 Italia is not a car for those watching the pennies. But with direct fuel injection, a tall seventh gear and all sorts of clever engineering designed to make the engine more fuel-efficient when it’s not being asked to produce 562bhp, a

VALUE FOR MONEY ENVIRONMENT Again, it’s not a car for the eco-conscious, but at least Ferrari is making an effort to reduce the environmental impact of driving a supercar: combined CO2 output is 307g/km, which is around 40g less than the F430, and less than some SUVs.

Fashion TV

Fashion TV Supermodels

come to Absolute Bangla to Climax By Trudy Parker

Fashion TV, or FTV as they are known globally, is a globally successful fashion and lifestyle TV channel, and they recently appointed their Thailand production crew “IZ-Representation” to fly into Phuket fully loaded with eight international super-models, film crew and a still camera work maestro. This under the radar penetration into Phuket’s world of hotels and resorts was the direct result of the “Absolute Bangla Suites Jacuzzi Condominiums” being talent spotted by Eric & Ronny,the directors of IZ within its local market place as an icon of style, design and sophistication. In simple terms, the Thai style mixed with art deco design create a radiant and vibrant palette and fusion of colour, lighting and feeling; thus catching the eye and imagination of these two very talented entrepreneurs to represent Phuket and Thailand on FTV. Basically, rocketing Absolute Bangla Suites, Patong, Phuket, and Thailand into the global stratosphere of fashion, for massive positive exposure and PR.

Fashion TV

“Absolute Bangla Suites is unique and conveniently located right in the heart of Patong. We are ecstatic to have the Fashion TV team at our hotel and present the best holiday and lifestyle experience to a worldwide audience,” said Andrew Parker, Managing Director - Thailand, Absolute World Group. “It was an excellent opportunity to showcase the unique design and what Absolute Bangla Suites has to offer. It’s more than just a hotel or accommodation, it’s a lifestyle experience all of its own, being vibrant and in the center of the action. The VDO will showcase the hotel’s character to a target audience as well as the holiday lifestyle that we offer. Brilliant.” Fashion TV undertook two full days of recce, three full days photo shooting and filming of the inside and outside of Absolute Bangla Suites, including its roof top restaurant ‘Climax poolside dining and music lounge’. Michelin chef Stephan Bowman doubled as international DJ, with the Irish phenomena “The Coronas” playing live and being filmed to promote themselves globally. Parties, bikinis, champagne, limousines, fast cars and superbikes (supplied by Simon Tunningley) were in the lens as the girls worked their magic and had some serious fun. Even Absolute Chairman Bryan Lunt added value by taking to the guitar and dragging the Absolute MD Andrew Parker to the stage for the camera. FTV crew and eight models then went off-road, taking to the seas onboard Absolute Bangla One (Absolute’s 32’ day-boat with captain and first mate) and RPM 1, which was provided courtesy of Royal Phuket Marina (Gratitude and thanks being extended to Gulu – Owner of RPM and Andrew the Director), and headed off to an island nearby called Kai Nok – one of the most beautiful sandy islands near Phuket. Thereafter followed hours of sun, fun, oil and frolicking as the models paraded their bodies.

Fashion TV

Our maestro of photography was Pravin Talan. Talan is an international photographer from India who has traveled around the world and worked with super models from around the globe and international brands, including FTV Merchandise. Pravin has also shot many fashion shoots for leading international stars and Bollywood stars. This man rocked! All VDO clips are part of the FTV Fashion Destination program a glamorous and entertaining journey into some of the world’s most exotic and fashionable destinations. The program covers some of the best and hottest events, beautiful models, sunny beaches and lots of luxurious lifestyle activities from around the world. What a once in a lifetime experience. and all involved are looking forward to seeing the images come together. All the VDO clips will be available to watch online at www.ftv.com.

IZ REPRESENTATION was started in March 2004 and has rapidly grown to be one of the most exclusive international modeling agencys in Thailand. We have an experience and dedicate team whose aim is to provide the highest quality representation to our model's and outstanding service to our clients. We search the service of high quality professional models from the top Agencys around the world particularly in the USA, Canada and Brazil, as well as local models offering work assignments within the advertising industry, commercial print, TV commercial, Exhibition and fashion shows. We manage every models career focusing on short term goals, for long term success, always taking into consideration the model's strengths and personal qualities. We believe this philosophy will enhance the model's potential and opportunities made available to them. Likewise it is our objective to build long term relationships with our client,

Kitchens: Kitchens

New vs. Remodeled

A remodeled kitchen might feel like a new kitchen, but technically speaking, new kitchens are built when new homes are built, and kitchen remodels take place in existing kitchens. Of course, that’s just the basic definition. There are several different types of remodels and various factors that go into how a new kitchen will look. Some things to consider with remodels and new kitchens include: 1) If you’re buying a new home, the flexibility you have in designing your kitchen will depend on whether you are buying a custom home, a developer-built home or a spec home. 2) A kitchen remodel has to take into account many facets of your existing home. If you work within the constraints of your home, you can simply redecorate your kitchen by painting or replacing some of your old appliances. 3) For homes with outdated appliances, materials and even plumbing, a gut remodel might be your best option. And if space is an issue, then you might have to consider adding additional square footage. New Construction If you’re buying a brand new home, you likely fall into one of these three categories: Custom home, developer-built home or spec (model) home. “Custom home” With a custom home, you’ll have as much freedom with the types of products and materials you use as you do in a remodeling job. You’ll have even more flexibility than the remodeler when it comes to the kitchen layout and its door and window locations.

By Tim Knight

Kitchens

“Developer-built home“ Developers will typically put some limits on your choices, though how many and on what will vary by project.The choices are usually limited because they’ve made arrangements with suppliers for quantity discounts. A development might have a “selection center” on site where you can view the products and materials included in a standard package and any upgrades. You may be able to pay extra, for example, to have maple instead of oak cabinets, or granite instead of laminate countertops. Some may even allow changes to the kitchen layout—added island storage or an extended cabinet run perhaps. Some will send you to an affiliated kitchen designer for an expanded selection.

molition before you can start construction. 2) The floor plan and style of your new kitchen must take into account the surrounding rooms and the architecture of the home itself. 3) Electrical, mechanical and plumbing components may need updating to be brought into compliance with current building codes. 4) Structural elements such as joists and load-bearing beams may need shoring up. 5) Slanting walls and floors require installers to adjust the height of appliances and cabinets accordingly. With the multitude of what-ifs and maybes that come up during a remodel, costs can mount more quickly than most homeowners expect, and labor may take longer. You and any designers or contractors involved will need to be able to think on your feet and be creative problem solvers.

Other developers may offer little or no flexibility, even if you are willing to pay a premium. If you have to have the home but hate the developer’s kitchen, you can always buy it and then replace the features you don’t like.

Tip #1: Look for professionals with remodeling experience. Contractors and designers who usually work on new homes probably won’t be accustomed to anticipating pitfalls associated with remodeling.

“Spec or model home” For homes built on spec or those that serve as a developer’s model, your chances for making changes to the kitchen will largely depend on how far along the project is. For most, you will get what you see.

Tip #2: As soon as you start moving walls, raising the ceiling, putting in an addition—in short, any kind of structural work— you’re starting to get into big bucks. That’s when you need to ask yourself, do I move or improve? The answer depends not just on remodeling costs but also on potential return on investment, moving costs, land values and local schools.

“Remodeled Kitchen”

“Decorating and Home Improvement”

The big—and obvious—difference between building a new home and remodeling an existing home is that you cannot start from scratch. Just a few examples: 1) You have to do de-

If you’re updating your kitchen because you’re bored with how it looks, a little redecorating might be just the ticket. Fresh paint, new wallpaper and updated window treatments

Kitchens

can revamp a room. Throw in a new faucet or light fixture, and you’re good to go. Small jobs like these often fall into the do-ityourself category. Other options include hiring a handyman or specific contractor (plumber or electrician, etc.) or having the supplier or retailer do the installation for you. “Pull and Replace Remodel” This type of project simply involves removing old items and installing new ones in their place. In a kitchen remodel, this typically includes some combination of flooring, countertops, cabinets, appliances, sinks, faucets, and lighting fixtures. Some homeowners might want to tackle some of this work themselves, hiring specialty contractors for some of the more difficult aspects. Many suppliers also provide installation services for an additional fee. If you want more extensive help, kitchen designers, remodeling contractors and design/build firms can provide design, installation and project management services. A kitchen remodel of this size and scope probably won’t take more than a few weeks. “Gut Remodel” A gut remodel involves “gutting” the entire kitchen by tearing out the walls, insulation, wiring and piping down to the framing. Why go so far? Older homes often have outdated plumbing, electrical and mechanical infrastructure that can’t run all the modern amenities. Extra insulation can help keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Gutting a room also provides the best opportunity to add structured wiring for all your phone, fax, Internet, television and networking needs.

A project of this size requires skilled labor from several different trades, which means it also requires a project manager.If you’re not up for doing it yourself,a general contractor or design/build firm can do it for you. Some kitchen designers and architects also provide project management services in addition to design. Since a gut kitchen remodel probably will take two to four months to complete, installing a temporary kitchen in an adjacent room, the basement or garage is probably a good idea. “Addition” Sometimes, no matter how you try to reconfigure your home’s floor plan, there’s just not enough square footage. Even a small addition adds significant costs, though, because of the need to pour a foundation, add siding and roofing, and tie the new construction into the old. In many areas of the country, building codes require an architect (sometimes even an engineer) to design or sign off on the plans for a residential addition. Even if that’s not true where you live, for safety’s sake, you’re best off hiring an architect or a design/build firm to design your addition. Depending on the size of the addition and other work done in conjunction, the project’s length will vary. If the house will be open to the elements for a while or filled with workers for several months, you should consider finding short-term housing elsewhere.

Kitchens

90 90

Horoscope Kitchens

Feb - Mar 10 Aries

Mar 21/Apr 20

It is all too easy to develop tunnel vision. We get so wrapped up in our dramas, problems and our day-to-day lives that we forget the existence of the wider world. Things that seem desperately important to one group of people are almost laughably irrelevant to another. You will get, in February, a chance to adjust your perspective and to view a far larger horizon. This won’t remove the need to tackle a pressing, personal matter, but it will help you return to it with renewed clarity.

Taurus

Apr 21/May 21

Gemini

Mar 22/Jun 21

Cancer

Jun 22/Jul 23

We learn the concept of deferred gratification at an early age. If we want to buy a toy, we must do our chores and save our pocket money. We try, of course, to get our parents to act like credit card companies - providing us with the reward before it has been earned... but, even if we are successful sometimes, we also discover that there’s pleasure of a kind in putting things off. You have been making a compromise for so long that you can’t even remember what you were hoping to attain.

If only someone would show you some appreciation.’ ‘If only life would offer you an even break.’ ‘If only you could introduce fresh air into a stale scenario...’ ‘If’ and ‘Only’ are two dangerous words. The other way round, they’re fine. ‘Only if...’ is a statement that shows strength. But ‘If only...’ can cause us to wish our whole lives away. As we edge into a new year, forget what could or should have happened in the old one.

Does the following scenario ring a bell? You are driving to an appointment and the traffic is annoyingly slow. So you decide to take a clever detour. In one of the back streets that you are winding your way through, a delivery wagon is blocking the way. In search of yet another alternative route, you end up lost. Even your satnav loses its bearings. By the time you have found your way again, it is too late. The moral? Sometimes, unimaginative perseverance works better than a more creative approach

Leo

Jun 24/Aug 23

Imagine trying to write a poem while the neighbors are having a noisy party. Meanwhile, a team of workers is digging up the road round the clock, to fix a burst pipe. Even if you know exactly what you want to say, you won’t find this a conducive or helpful atmosphere. It’s as if you have lately been deprived of space and support. You have been impinged on, invaded and overwhelmed by circumstances beyond your control.

Virgo

Aug 24/Sep 23

Is it better to be hard or soft? The answer is neither. If you are too strong, you will become brittle. If you’re too sensitive, you will become delicate. Either way, you will wind up vulnerable. Ideally you want to be rigid enough to withstand stress yet malleable enough to adapt if you must. While Mercury is retrograde in January, this intelligent mix of toughness and tenderness is precisely what you require.

Libra

Sep 24/Oct 23

Imagine a world full of beings who have been magically transported from a place they cannot recall. Every few hours, they keel over. Hours later, they recover - yet cannot say what has been happening to them. They just pick up where they left off. They all claim this world is their home yet they all, sooner or later, depart forever. When they go, they never leave a forwarding address. Recognize the place? That’s Earth. That’s us! None of us really know what we are doing here. So how can any of us know what’s really worth getting upset about?

Scorpio

Oct 24/Nov 22

Inside us all, no matter how sophisticated we may seem, there’s a tiny child. A part of us just wants to be loved and looked after. We often disguise this need behind complex ideas and justifications. Sometimes, we do it so successfully; we fool ourselves. Your basic needs are simpler and more easily met than you imagine. In your heart of hearts, you know what’s right and why.

Sagittarius

Nov 23/Dec 21

You can’t do this and you can’t do that. Plan A won’t work because you haven’t got resource B. You can’t get resource B because you’ve got issue Z to think about. Are you in a seemingly hopeless situation? Well yes, but it’s only ‘seemingly’ so. The more you dwell on what’s upsetting you, the more likely you are to end up feeling fed up.

Capricorn

Dec 22/Jan 20

You may not be totally sure what you want, but you have got a pretty clear idea about what it is that you don’t want. You are indeed, a little overly eager to avoid a particular development. Why, precisely, are you so certain that this is something that ‘cannot and must not’ be allowed to happen? On what grounds are you so opposed to it? While Venus is in your sign, you want to be adapting and accepting, not struggling and fighting.

Aquarius

Jan 21/Feb 19

The experts tell us that, the more we customize an object or item, the more we damage its resale value. What, to you, represents a vast improvement may be for a future purchaser a reason not to buy. Such logic fails, though; to take into account the possibility that someone somewhere may share your taste and preferences. To this person, your modifications will add untold value. It’s more important than ever before now, for you to be yourself, express yourself and trust yourself.

Pisces

Feb 20/Mar 20

Many prayers are offered to the Creator. Even those who have no belief in such a power cannot help but phrase a request or express a wish from time to time. We ask life to give us all sorts of things but sometimes it seems our pleas have landed on deaf ears. There’s now something you want dearly. What harm can it do to ask? Well, if your boon is granted, maybe you’ll assume you have a special relationship with the cosmos? And if it isn’t, will you grow resentful?

Kitchens