Absolute Thai Magazine 15 by Absolute Thail Magazine

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12 Songkran Issue April & May 2010

VIE Hotel

Jessica Alba

Banyan Golf Club

Humour

Health and Well-being

Cover Feature

Travel

Fashion

Horoscope

VIE Hotel

Thailand’s Long Neck People

History of Hong Kong Rugby 7’s

Golf - Banyan Golf Club

Chaweng Cove Resort

McLaren MP4-12C

Chairman: Bryan Lunt Bryan@AbsoluteWorld.net

(Phuket)

(Thai Sales) Andrew@AbsoluteWorld.net

Tim Knight (Northern Sales) TimKnight@AbsoluteThai.com Mobile: (+66) 84 689 9680 Vinda Kallayanamitr (Bangkok) vinda@truemail.co.th Mobile (+66) 81 889 7482

McLaren Mp4-12C

you blinked, you missed Thailand’s winter this year. It was one of the warmest on record as well as abbreviated. For myself, in Chiang Mai (which usually enjoys a relatively cool ‘cool season’), I was already having to turn on my air-conditioner by mid-February. By the time you read this, every A/C in the country will be blowing cold air 24/7 as April’s Songkran officially ushers in Thailand’s hottest of the hot seasons. But the cooling waters of Songkran, combined with the absolute thrill of the event, will make you forget about the heat for a while. Ask any Thai or Westerner who has been here for Songkran and they will tell you it is the most enjoyable of any of Thailand’s holidays. Read the article about it as it has a long rooted tradition in the Kingdom. But when you get to the Jessica Alba piece, you might want to be indoors, and maybe even in a cold shower, as our photo layout of this beauty will get the blood pressure pumping. She is one of the rare breads of ladies that will stun you with her looks and then knock you on your feet with her acting talent. I am personally looking forward to seeing her in her upcoming film Little Fockers. She is truly a classic beauty. This issue, which has now grown in size, has a myriad of articles and stories for anyone’s tastes. The article on the Galapagos Islands has me ready to pack my bags and go check it out as it sounds like a oasis of geography and wildlife. Then I would like to head over to Hua Hin and play a round of golf on the beautiful and scenic Banyan Golf Club. But maybe I should start saving my money for the new McLaren MP4-12C. So many choices! Isn’t life grand? Enjoy our extra pages and new layout, and stay safe and cool in this tropical heat.

Best regards,

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

The Mother of Water Celebrations:

Songkran in Chiang Mai

By Steve Bossell

ne of the largest Thai festivals of the year occurs during the month of April, with the focus shifting from Bangkok onto the northern city of Chiang Mai.

A large proportion of the local business community stops trading, the traffic is gridlocked, and everyone pours onto the streets of the city for what is probably the biggest water fight in the world! There is simply no comparison with any other festival of its kind as the whole city is drenched from head to toe. Forget about shopping for handicrafts as the creative local vendors stock up with a wide range of plastic pistols, guns, buckets and hoses. Get ready, get your accommodation in Chiang Mai booked well in advance and be prepared for some fun. And you might want to rent a boat instead of a motorbike.

Welcome to the Songkran Festival of Water 2010 and the opportunity to party and celebrate like there is no tomorrow. The hot season is in full swing with temperatures reaching a sizzling 37C-40C. In these scorching conditions there is no better way to cool off than with a festival of water. The old traditions of Songkran may be diminishing, but the party spirit is stronger than at any other time of the year.

Humour

The usual hierarchal society is forgotten about as all rules are broken, and everyone gets a complete drenching. Tourists make particularly good targets, so don’t think for a moment that you have special exemption.

A word of advice if you plan to visit Chiang Mai during Songkran - it can be chaotic and sometimes frustrating. The traffic can be horrendous and reaching your destination can take time. Don’t forget that you are likely to have a bucket of water thrown over you if riding a bike or travelling in a tuk-tuk. Make sure you ride slowly if on a motorbike, as it’s common to get a face full of water. Wrap your camera and mobile phone in a sealed waterproof bag, and above all else, try to retain your sense of humour at all times. In northern Thailand, Songkran is not just for Thai people; everyone is welcomed with a smile and a bucket of water. It’s a great time for tourists to visit, providing that you are happy to join in and get a good soaking. The word “fun” is at the heart of Thai culture, and this special occasion epitomizes the country and its people. It is virtually impossible to stay dry during the festival, so much so that the few people who don’t have the spirit to join in often have to leave town. Throughout the city on every street and in every alley, you’ll find children and adults confronting you with a loaded water pistol or a bucket of water. Those on motorbikes or riding in a tuk-tuk are far from safe, and will likely arrive at their destination soaking wet. Most of the celebrations are centered around a square mile of the Old Town, and Chiang Mai’s historic moat is the perfect setting. Once the festival begins, it turns into a huge waterfighting venue and swimming pool, as throngs of festival-goers line the adjoining streets and grassy banks of this famous attractive area. The central area has a large number of taps installed for the duration of the festivities, and most of the bars and restaurants provide large containers of water. Chiang Mai is without doubt the most popular place to celebrate Songkran in Thailand, and hoards of people from Bangkok arrive every year to join in the fun.

Songkran is the official New Year on the Thai calendar, and a time for people to join with their families to celebrate together. There are many old traditions associated with the festival; such as the ritual spring cleaning of the house as the dusty dry season finally gives way to the rains. The country is a huge producer of rice, and Songkran is used to invite the gods to start the rains for this essential basic commodity crop. In Thailand, although many visitors will only witness the water throwing, there is far more to Songkran for the Thai people. Every town and village will have traditional blessing ceremonies, while the larger towns and cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai will have a choice of different events. This will often include street parades and the making of sand chedis as a symbolic gesture to the Buddha. Thai people might normally have a reserved character however Songkran provides a great chance for people to let their hair down and forget about cultural norms. Girls turn out in their best skimpy outfits, which would normally be frowned upon, and ladyboys strut their stuff for everyone to see.

The water element originated when people visited the local temple for a ceremonial cleansing (making merit) of the Buddha, and by pouring water onto the shoulders of family elders and villagers. This has somehow changed over the years to become a huge water fight involving everyone, and lasting for days.

Health & Well-being

How to Have Hands that Don’t Reveal your Age By Alexandra Collard

Caring for my hands was probably the last thing on my list in my younger days and boy do I regret that. What I didn’t think about was it doesn’t matter how good you might look for your age - if you have hands of a ninety year old and you’re only 35! So here I am at the ripe old age of 40 something, and my hands reveal every unhealthy moment in my life. With each line, wrinkle and crease that under a magnifying glass could be mistaken for some far off planetary suface after a thousand years of nuclear war I have finally succumbed to desperate measures to reverse, or at least stop, the onslaught of haggard aged hands. Of course, we know that using a rich hand cream is vital every day but remembering to moisture as a daily routine is much harder than one would think, simply because at 40 something the mind tends to wander and more often than not it will forget something it made a note of 5 minutes ago! One way to avoid forgetting is to carry hand cream everywhere you go, if you swap your

purses often make sure you have some hand cream in every purse, also try to keep some in the car, in the bathroom on show and perhaps most important of all is always keep a tube on your bedside table. For intense moisture when you sleep there are several brands of protective gloves that promise to provide an overnight beautifying hand therapy. Although most manufacturers supply cotton blend gloves as do the likes of Body Shop and major department stores, there are also gel gloves. The method with cotton gloves is that you use quite a deep moisturizing cream or lotion first and then you leave on the gloves all night to wake up with remarkably improved youthful hands. However, gel gloves don’t require any lotions, they can be much more expensive but they do work extraordinarily well, as long as you remember to put them on. Most of these brands, both cotton and gel, can easily be found online.

The trick here is that even if you do forget there will be so many reminders everywhere you look you can’t possibly help but make a point of moisturizing.

Health & Well-being

A secret of the stars I learned long ago but did not take enough advantage of is Paraffin wax. Not every spa or salon has this service and to be honest I was slightly dubious about the idea of sticking my hand in hot wax, but the rewards are just too great to ignore. Instantly your hands are softer, clearer and smoother.

There are also side benefits to this treatment for people who suffer from joint or muscle pain. If used on a regular basis, such as once a week, you’ll not only find the pain subside but you’ll also have much younger looking hands. Even your feet can benefit as this treatment can be used for both. The process is quite simple, the wax is heated in a small spa and you submerge your hands from one to four times making sure you have a thick layer of wax covering your hands when you withdraw them from the liquid. A plastic bag is then put over your hands, followed with a mitten, for about ten to fifteen minutes. The mittens and bag are removed along with the wax in one fail swoop; et voila, beautifully soft, pain free hands. Visiting a spa is always a lovely way to spend a couple of hours, however, you’re looking at spending roughly 20 to 30

dollars per treatment and for those of you who want a treatment once a week it may pay off for you to buy a home hand spa. Of course the down side is you have to do all the work, heat the wax, clean the spa afterwards, etc., but you can usually find a top range hand spa for under $100. If neither of these solutions work for you and you would rather have a natural alternative then there are several home remedies online, such as: dipping your hands in a warm bowl of olive and castor oil or perhaps preparing a hand scrub with rum, milk, brown sugar, powdered nutmeg and a few drops of essential oil of cinnamon.

Do they work as well? Honestly, not really, and the other problem is all the natural hand treatments always use a moisturiser afterwards. So you have to ask yourself, do I want to make a mess in the kitchen and spend half an hour preparing the hand mixture or do I want to visit the spa?

You know where you’re going to find me!

VIE Hotel Bangkok

Experience Optimum ‘Zs’ at VIE VIE Hotel Bangkok offers a new concept: ‘Deep Sleep’.

VIE

Hotel Bangkok, one of Asia’s trendiest hotels, introduces a new guest concept, ‘Deep Sleep’; bringing together all the essential elements to help guests revitalize their mind and body through a better night’s sleep. Good sleep is vital for a person’s wellbeing, ensuring the mind and body rejuvenates and restores itself. Studies indicate that most travelers have difficulties getting sufficient and restful sleep, leading to weariness that may affect their activities during the day. “Research with our hotel guests found many said similar things about minor sleeping disorders when traveling. A common factor was their biological clock being out of sync

with their home base, having to constantly adapt to different time zones and forcing themselves to sleep at unnatural hours adds to their weariness,” says Remko Kroesen, General Manager of VIE Hotel Bangkok. “At VIE Hotel Bangkok, we understand the essence of a good night’s sleep, and it is much more than just providing a choice of pillow, though we do that also,” he adds. The Deep Sleep product offers a methodical plan of activities and elements to choose from in order to ensure ultimate relaxation and sleep preparedness. The service provides a retreat from the hectic life outside the hotel and an opportunity for guests to find respite and take care of the most important thing – themselves.

VIE’s Sleep Consultants provide recommendations and advice on the best sleeping position, meditation and muscle relaxation activities, suggestions on sleep-friendly meals create an environment that soothes the senses of sight, scent, sound, taste and touch for the ultimate sleeping experience. “The hotel’s Sleep Consultants will explain every detail of the sleeping process, including the healing powers of aroma therapy and the different qualities of each scent – whether it’s lavender, chamomile, peppermint leaves or juniper berries. When used properly, such scents can help balance and maintain physical and emotional health as well as unwind the mind and body for blissful relaxation leading to a long, deep sleep,” says David Robinson, a sleep expert who is managing the programme. The Deep Sleep at VIE Hotel Bangkok is a holistic approach designed to ensure that guests feel well through sleeping well.

VIE Hotel Bangkok

Introductory ‘Deep Sleep’ Package (9 February – 15 May, 2010) Single Occupancy – 5,500 THB net per room per night. Double Occupancy – 6,200 THB net per room per night.

Includes: • • • • • •

A Deluxe Suite including breakfast. Personal check-in by one of our Sleep Consultants at the VIE Suite – a spacious and well appointed room with a relaxed ambience. A selection of relaxing songs to be played in your room. A selection of herbal teas, dreamy aromatherapy candles/burners, and specialty pillows and pillow mist to choose from. Complimentary 45-minute relaxation treatment in the VIE SPA to help relax your body and still the mind. VIE Bath with relaxing amenities to begin the process of ending the day.

Additional services available from an a la carte menu: • • •

VIE Sleep Suit for lounging in your room or wearing to the spa and it is yours to keep. A personal trainer at VIE FIT gym to help you relax your muscles and gently tire your body. Recommendation of specially designed sleep-friendly menu items served in room or in VIE Wine & Grill, the hotel’s renowned restaurant.

VIE Hotel Bangkok, a member of the MGallery hotel collection, is a design hotel located in the heart of the city. Reflecting the history, setting, vision or design, MGallery collection hotels each have their own name, visual identity and specific products and services to offer consistent with the spirit of the label.

Perfectly positioned in the centre of the dynamic Bangkok landscape, VIE reflects the archetypal life of this modern city, complete with its energy, character and charisma.

MGallery is a small collection of distinctive boutique hotels that Accor has selected as a result of their unique vision, design, history and location.

With its prime location close to Ratchathewi Skytrain station, the business centres of Silom and Sukhumvit areas are only minutes away. Major shopping and entertainment complexes of Siam Square, Siam Center, Siam Discovery and Siam Paragon can be reached on foot or via Skytrain.

VIE Hotel fits a number of these criteria, but was particularly selected for the MGallery collection because of its design – the first MGallery hotel in the world to be selected because of its exceptional design qualities.

With stunning views from all angles, guests can see the panoramic skyline of Bangkok skyscrapers, a park nearby, and the San Saeb Canal which leads to the older parts of the city and to Thailand’s famous water way, the Chao Praya River.

Through J+H Boiffils’ (France) world-class architectural vision, VIE captures the 21st century spirit of Bangkok and defines a new style of travel and leisure.

VIE Hotel Bangkok

Natural and exotic materials, evocative lighting, vivid colours and distinctive artworks have been fused to create a uniquely individual style that connects to the city’s vibrant life. The uncompromising creative detail flows seamlessly into the guest rooms, delivering a lush residential comfort. All 154 Deluxe Rooms, Deluxe Suites, two bedroom Duplex Suites and the commanding Penthouse Suite are designed so guests can immerse themselves in the sumptuous and spacious setting; each showcasing dynamic views of this charismatic city.

centre and collection of VIE Events rooms feature thoughtful design to accommodate events of all descriptions. The authentic VIE experience culminates with the VIE Spa, a modern haven for body and soul, and VIE Fit, which provides a state-of-the-art fitness experience complete with panoramic views.

The Richness of Detail

Signature Services

Sip on a welcome drink in your spacious room while pausing to absorb the character of Bangkok encapsulated in the expansive view. Take in the heady aromas of exotic flowers and enjoy prestigious Etienne Aigner products in the vast bathrooms. Indulge in one of the many exclusive VIE culinary experiences. Enjoy the VIE Grand Breakfast in the guest room, experience the tradition of Oleang (Thai Coffee making), savour the VIE High Tea, or treat the taste buds to VIE Thai Tapas. It is the richness of detail that truly makes the difference.

VIE Hotel offers an exclusive collection of signature services. From a sumptuous meal in VIE Wine & Grill to cocktails in the VIE 39 Exclusive Club and Cohibas in VIE Cigar & Wine Bar, the hotel’s sophisticated offerings are second to none. A discreet business

General Manager of the hotel, Remko Kroesen, says, “VIE is the ideal hotel to showcase the MGallery label in Asia. The hotel allows guests to get a real sense and feeling for what makes Bangkok such an energetic and dynamic city. “

Contained within the four-storey cube at the hotel’s entrance is the VIE 39 Exclusive Club, which features VIE Cigar and Wine Bar providing an extensive selection of cigars and wines, topped with a rooftop swimming pool.

VIE Hotel Bangkok

VIE Spa VIE Spa at VIE Hotel Bangkok is one of the finest boutique spas in the city. The spa combines the timeless wisdom of Thailand’s healing arts with the very best of contemporary practice, all in the chic surroundings of the VIE Hotel Bangkok. Located on the 10th floor of the renowned design-led hotel, VIE Spa is comprised of six intimate treatment rooms and a luxurious suite equipped with a twin treatment bed, shower bath and Jacuzzi. Here, in the spa’s exotic surroundings, guests can enjoy an extensive range of massage, body and beauty services. Treatments have been designed to aid relaxation and increase general well-being. Using the highest quality spa products, guests can experience the soothing qualities of Thai oils and herbs used in massages, body scrubs, wraps, facials, and bathing and beauty rituals. Essential to the VIE Spa guest experience is the Signature Treatment, VIE balancing massage, a heavenly blend of aromatherapy, shiatsu, and a Thai massage. Spa lovers can choose a 60 or 90-minute treatment. Staffed by professional therapists, VIE Spa is a welcoming sanctuary with a style that reflects Thai culture in the 21st century. The peaceful ambience, outstanding facilities and exceptional service at VIE Spa make it the perfect choice for spa lovers.

Discover sanctuary in the city at VIE Spa from 10.00 a.m. – 10.00 p.m.

VIE Hotel Bangkok

VIE Wine & Grill VIE Wine & Grill is a chic and sophisticated restaurant for discerning diners. Located on the 11th floor, the stylish venue is renowned for its exquisite cuisine times up to 24 hours. The advantage of cooking in this and an impressive selection of New and Old World wines. way is that ingredients lose very little of their natural juices and nutrients. Guests can enjoy a memorable evening’s dining in a relaxed contemporary environment created from a palette of vivid colours, striking works of art and At VIE Wine & Grill, diners can enjoy premium quality ambient lighting, and enhanced by panoramic views across Bangkok’s sparkling Australia Wagyu beef cooked to succulent perfection on cityscape. a hot stone grill. Other notable dishes include Ranger’s Valley beef, Teys Bros grass-fed beef, veal tenderloin, lamb, With a comfortable lounge area and a welcoming air of informality, VIE Wine tuna and salmon; eached served with two side dishes & Grill is the perfect venue for after-work drinks and casual dining with friends, and a choice of sauces such as Café de Paris, red wine, clients or business associates. Here, guests can enjoy an exceptional choice of Béarnaise, horseradish or cream sauce. beverages, including a well-stocked wine cellar with specialty labels from major wine producing countries, all competitively priced. The popular ‘wine flights’ The carefully constructed menu also features a variety provide the opportunity to taste several vintages and have been selected to pair of appetizers, soups, crisp salads, Parma ham and fresh beautifully with an enticing international tapas menu. seafood dishes. Sweet treats of homemade ice-cream and various traditional French desserts complete an evening of The cuisine at VIE Wine & Grill has been created by Executive Chef Supat outstanding dining. Chinsangtip, a passionate cook with over 18 years experience working in some of the world’s top kitchens. Using a technique known as sous-vide, Chef VIE Wine & Grill is open daily from Supat and his gifted culinary team cook dishes under pressure at a controlled 06:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. temperature below 100 degrees Celsius for an extended period of time, some-

VIE Hotel Contact Details Address: Telephone: Facsimile: Website:

117/39-40 Phaya Thai Road, Bangkok 10400, +66 (0) 2309 3939 +66 (0) 2309 3838 www.viehotelbangkok.com, www.mgallery.com

ABOUT MGALLERY MGallery is a collection of upscale hotels that are remarkable in their personality. Selected to offer each guest an original experience thanks to their distinctive features that come to life. Designed for a broad range of individual guests, MGallery will seduce both business travelers looking for tailor-made services and tourists eager to experience authentic venues and moments. The MGallery collection of hotels thus reinforces the consistency of Accor’s portfolio in the upscale non-standardized segment. As of Q3 2008, the MGallery network is comprised of 8 hotels and will grow to over 40 establishments within Europe, the Middle-East, Asia-Pacific, the Caribbean and Latin America by the end of 2010.

Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba Sexy and Talented: A Double Threat! By Tim Knight

In 2001, Alba was ranked No. 1 on Maxim magazine's Hot 100 list. She said that "I have to go to certain lengths to use sexuality to my advantage, while guiding people to thinking the way I want them to." In 2005, Alba was named one of People magazine's 50 Most Beautiful People, and also appeared in the magazine's 100 Most Beautiful list in 2007. In 2002, Alba was voted as the fifth Sexiest Female Star for 2002 in a Hollywood.com poll, #4 in the Top 10 Sci-Fi Babes, #6 in FHM's Sexiest Girls for their poll, and ranked at #12 in Stuff magazine's "102 Sexiest Women in the World" 2002 edition. In 2005, Alba was ranked at #5 on the Maxim magazine's Hot 100 list.

Jessica Alba

On the cover of the March 2006 issue, Playboy magazine named Alba among its 25 Sexiest Celebrities, and the Sex Star of the Year. Alba was involved in litigation against Playboy for its use of her image (from a promotional shot for Into the Blue) without her consent, which she contends gave the appearance that she was featured in the issue in a "nude pictorial". However, she later dropped the lawsuit after receiving a personal apology from Playboy owner Hugh Hefner, who agreed to make donations to two charities that Alba has supported. In 2008, Alba made a comment on not using her sex appeal in order to get her goals in her acting career. “I think there are ambitious girls who will do anything to be famous, and they think men in this business are used to women doing that. Contrary to how people may feel, I’ve never used my sexuality. That’s not part of it for me. When I’m in a meeting, I want to tell you why I’m an asset, how I’m a commodity, how I can put asses in the seats, not, ‘There’s a chance you’re going to be able to have sex with me.’ That’s never been my deal.” In 2006, Alba ranked #3 on E! Television’s 101 Sexiest Celebrity Bodies. In 2006 readers of AskMen. com voted Alba No. 1 on 99 Most Desirable Women, while in 2007, Maxim Magazine placed Alba on the number 2 spot of their “Top 100”. Both GQ and In Style had Alba on their June covers, and in May, after eight million votes, FHM (UK and USA editions) named Alba the winner as “2007’s Sexiest Woman in the World”.

Alba has been regarded as one of the world’s most attractive women, being named to Maxim’s Hot 100 in 2008. In 2007 Alba was ranked in at #1 in FHM’s Sexiest Girls of 2007 poll, in the magazine’s Latvian edition. Alba was ranked #4 on Empire Magazine’s 100 Sexiest Movie Stars in 2007. In 2006 and 2007 Alba was voted #1 as the sexiest woman in the world by the Norwegian FHM. Alba appeared in the 2009 Campari calendar. Campari printed 9,999 copies of thecalendar featuring photos of Alba posing sexually in swimsuits, and high heels. In 2008, Alba was ranked #34 on Maxim magazine’s Hot 100 list, was ranked #2 on Wizard magazine’s “Sexiest Women of TV” list, and was named in GQ Magazine one of the 25 Sexiest Women in film of all time. So there is no doubt that most men (and probably many women) find Jessica Alba to be one of the best looking and sexiest women in the world. She sure has the “awards” to prove it!

Jessica Alba

Alba fears being typecast as a sex kitten based on the bulk of parts offered to her, commenting, “Somehow, I don’t think this is happening to Natalie Portman.” [Writer’s note: Portman runs a close second to Alba in my book.] In the interview, Alba said she wants to be taken seriously as an actress but believes she needs to do movies that she would otherwise not be interested in to build her career, stating that eventually she hopes to be more selective in her film projects. Alba also maintains a strict no-nudity clause in her contract.

She was given the option to appear nude in Sin City by the “films” directors, Frank Miller and Robert Rodriguez, but declined the offer, saying, “I don’t do nudity. I just don’t.“ because I was wearing provocative clothing, when I wasn’t. It just made me feel like if I was in any way desirable to the opposite sex that it was my fault, and it made me ashamed of my body and being a woman.” Alba also had objections to the church’s condemnations of premarital sex and homosexuality, and the lack of strong female role models in the Bible, explaining, “I thought it was a nice guide, but it certainly wasn’t how I was going to live my life.” Her religious devotion began to wane at the age of 15 when she guest-starred as a teenager with gonorrhea in the throat in a 1996 episode of the television series Chicago Hope. Her friends at church reacted negatively to her role, making her lose faith in the church. However, she has stated that she still holds her belief in God despite leaving the church.

Maybe that makes me a bad actress. Maybe I won’t get hired in some things. But I have too much anxiety”. She remarked of a GQ shoot in which she was scantily clad, “They didn’t want me to wear the granny panties, but I said, ‘If I’m gonna be topless I need to wear granny panties.” Alba was raised as a Christian in the Catholic denomination throughout her teenage years, but left the church after four years because she felt she was being judged for her appearance, explaining, “Older men would hit on me, and my youth pastor said it was

Jessica Alba

While filming Dark Angel in January 2000, Alba began a three year relationship with her co-star Michael Weatherly, which caused controversy due to their 12 year age gap. Weatherly proposed to Alba on her twentieth birthday, which she accepted. In August 2003, Alba and Weatherly announced that they had ended their relationship. In July 2007, Alba spoke out about the break up, "I don't know why I got engaged. I was a virgin. He was 12 years older than me. I thought he knew better. My parents weren't happy. They're really religious. They believe God wouldn't allow the Bible to be written if it wasn't what they are supposed to believe. I'm completely different." Alba had at one time said she envisioned a much older man as her ideal partner, making references to Morgan

Freeman, Sean Connery, Robert Redford, and Michael Caine. She said, "I have this thing for older men. They've been around and know so much." Alba met Cash Warren, son of actor Michael Warren, while making Fantastic Four in 2004. On December 27, 2007, Alba and Warren announced that they were engaged. Alba married Warren in Los Angeles on Monday, May 19, 2008. On June 7, 2008, Alba gave birth to a baby girl, Honor Marie Warren. The first pictures of Honor Marie appeared in OK! magazine, which paid a reported $1.5 million for

them. Alba has said that she would like to have more children. In 2005, Alba offered her acting talents for free, to raise money for AIDS charity Amfar at the Cannes Film Festival. The Industry had held a benefit for the US research foundation. Alba had caused "the greatest stir" by promising to star as an unpaid actress i n one of The Lord of the Rings produced Bob Weinstein's movies if Weinstein agreed to bid $100,000 for tennis lessons with sports stars Monica Seles and Boris Becker.

Albaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s charity work includes participation with Clothes Off Our Back, Habitat for Humanity, National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Project HOME, RADD, Revlon Run/ Walk for Women, SOS Children Villages, Soles4Souls, and Step up. Alba openly endorsed and supported Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama during the 2008 primary season.

Jessica Alba

Alba posed for a bondage-themed print advertising campaign by Declare Yourself, a campaign encouraging voter registration among youth for the 2008 United States presidential election. The ads, photographed by Mark Liddell, which feature Alba wrapped in and gagged with black tape, drew national media attention. The ads were described by some as being “Shocking. ” Alba said of doing the advertisements that “it didn’t freak me out at all.” Alba also said, “I think it is important for young people to be aware of the need we have in this country to get them more active politically,”and “People respond to things that are shocking.” In June 2009, while filming The Killer Inside Me in Oklahoma City, Alba provoked residents when she pasted posters of sharks around town. Alba said that she was trying to bring attention to the diminishing population of great white sharks. Media outlets speculated that Alba would be pursued and charged with vandalism. On June 16, 2009, Oklahoma City police said that they wouldn’t pursue criminal charges against Alba because none of the property owners wanted to pursue it. Alba apologized in a statement to People Magazine and said that she regretted her actions. She later donated an undisclosed amount of money to the United Way Foundation, whose billboard she had obscured with one of the shark posters. 2010 will be a busy year for Alba. Look for her in the already released Valentine’s Day. As well, she will appear in Machete, Sin City 2, The Killer Inside Me, and An Invisible Sign of My Own, “Little Fockers” the sequel to Meet the Parents and “Meet the Fockers.”

Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Long Neck People

Success is measured in Inches...

...at Bangla Suites it's measured in Fractions.

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Thailand’s Long Neck People

Beautiful Cultures:

Thailand’s Long Neck People By Steve Bosell

Karen Hill Tribe language, “Pa-dong”, “Paduang” or “Padung” means someone who wears brass–rings.

The Karen-Pa-Dong Hill Tribe are also known as either “Long Necks” or “Giraffe Women”, they prefer to be called Ka-Yan having originated from Myanmar’s northern, highland state of Ka-Ya.

There are now thought to be only around 7,000 Karen-Pa-Dong in total, of this total about 300 fled to Thailand during the 1980s and now live along the Thai and Myanmar border in three villages around the province of Mae Hong Son.

Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Long Neck People

The village of Nai Soi is the largest settlement and also the most distant from the provincial town of Mae Hong Son. The group face many of the hardships which other hill tribe peoples face in Thailand, they are not recognized as Thai citizens and therefore they do not have access to medical care, education, or other rights granted to citizens, furthermore, they are not permitted to be employed within Thailand. So they have had to find other ways of generating income, and what better way than by just letting outsiders observe your culture? There are many myths surrounding the tribeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s custom of elongating the neck by the wearing of brass rings. One of the most popular ones being that the headman of the tribe had a dream in which he saw that a tiger was going to kill one of the most popular children in his village, and as tigers always kill their victims by first breaking their necks, he then and there decreed that all children from an early age must wear heavy brass rings round their necks to protect them from imminent danger and evil spirits. As the tiger attack never materialized, it was presumed that the wearing of the brass rings worked, this tradition has carried on right up to present times. As you wander around the villages you will spot few, if any, men. The reason for this is that they are generally out laboring in the rice fields or hunting in the jungle.

It is the Karen-Pa-Dong women who are the main attractions to the visiting hordes of tourists, who are constantly intrigued by the numerous brass rings worn around the neck and limbs of the women.

Thailand’s Long Neck People

According to their culture, wearing brass neck rings symbolizes a beautiful form of body adornment. Girls start with their first nine rings as early as five years of age and new sets are substituted every four years on nine separate occasions. The last change occurs when a women is forty-five years old. The weight and number of rings depends much on each wearer’s individual choice; the longest ring recorded is 32 brass rings weighing 13 – 15 kilos (around 32 lbs)!

The truth about the Karen-Pa-Dong women is that they do not even have elongated necks! The heavy brass coils which they fit around their necks press down on the rib cage and cause the ribs to grow downwards. Furthermore, the weight of the coils pushes the necks and shoulder muscles deep into the shoulders. This creates the illusion of a longer neck, when in fact, it is the lower body which has been shaped into the appearance of a longer neck.

the begging that goes on in other hill tribe villages, but you can’t help but wonder how much of the fees are kept by the villagers and how much is grabbed by the tour operators who run the villages almost as “theme parks”.

The Karen-Pa-Dong Hill Tribe people appear to accept the visitor’s curiosity about them with a mixture of charm and intrigue and seem to enjoy the attention that brings.

Visitors to the villages will be bombarded with a wide range of “homemade” souvenirs and gifts that the villagers have made, this also helps to sustain their way of life, so please support them by making a couple of small purchases.

The process of paying an entrance fee to the villages is certainly more preferable to

Thailand’s Long Neck People

There was a case reported locally a year or two ago whereby a Karen-Pa-Dong girl of around 10 years of age had disappeared without a trace from her village, returning just as mysteriously around a month later, she admitted to her parents that she had been taken by someone to a resort near Chiang Mai and that she had been promised payment (that never materialized) to have her photograph continually taken with visiting tourists. So the hill tribe people are sometimes being exploited by their own kind. If you want to visit the Karen Pa-Dong Longnecks in the village of Nai Soi near Mae Hong Son, and will be travelling from Chiang Mai, there are two different options one is by road (car or bus) the other is by flight. The car journey takes between 10-12 hours, so I would suggest you break the journey up and stay over in Pai for the night, it is a lovely town roughly halfway between Chiang Mai & Mae Hong Son. “If you would rather fly, Nok Mini airlines operates 2 flights per day to Pai and 3 flights per day to Mae Hong Son. The flight only takes 35 minutes, and the beautiful scenery seen out the windows is free.” Once you have arrived at Mae Hong Son you have the choice of either booking a place that includes the tours you want to do, or, alternatively, book the hotel separately and then look around the town to decide on the tours. There are many tour companies around the town, and you will get exactly what you want by booking it directly this way.

Hong Kong Rugby Sevens

Hong Kong Stadium

History of the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens Former UK Colony Hosts IRB Sevens Tournament and the history of the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens

By Ted Bell

It was a weekend full of sportsmanship and partying, well, mostly partying. The highly anticipated Hong Kong Rugby Sevens was held in late March to great cheer and fanfare. People from around the globe made their way to Hong Kong to watch Sevens rugby matches between teams of all caliber. The 3 day event was a boost to the city and to the sport, which seems to grow in popularity every year. Even the Americans (who worship their pathetic idea of ‘football’).

Wan Chai Bars

How it all got started Although Sevens tournaments have been held since the game was invented in Scotland in 1883, Hong Kong came about much later. In 1975, the Chairman of the HKRFU, A.D.C. “Tokkie” Smith met with Ian Gow, a tobacco executive who was looking to sponsor an international rugby tournament. Within a year, the first Hong Kong Sevens was held.

Tickets for this event were sold out within a few hours of going on sale which is, hopefully, a good sign that the world economic crises is making its much hoped for exit. All the seats were filled, and the spillover filled the restaurants and bars outside the stadium.

Hong Kong Rugby Sevens

The entrants in the early days were mainly national teams from South East Asia, supplemented by non-representative teams from New Zealand and Australia. The tournament grew quickly, both in rugby terms and in supporters. It soon outgrew its home and moved from the Hong Kong Football Club to the bigger Government Stadium in Happy Valley. This iconic setting, with a backdrop of steep wooded hills topped with skyscrapers, proved to be a perfect location for what was to come.

Waisale Serevi, Jonah Lomu and the Golden Age of Sevens The late eighties and early nineties saw Hong Kong at the center of the emergence of a golden era of Sevens stars. The tournament, dominated by New Zealand and Fiji saw some immense battles at this time, cementing the legend of the Hong Kong Sevens.

South Stand

A stream of extravagantly talented Kiwis competed for New Zealand including Jonah Lomu and Christian Cullen. Fiji boasted the likes of Vunibaka, the huge striding wing and the incomparable Waisale Serevi. Serevi, generally considered the greatest Sevens player of all time, played at Hong Kong 16 times, making the final 14 times and winning the Player of the Tournament award on four occasions.

The Hong Kong Rugby Sevens is much more than Asia’s biggest sporting event, the annual arrival of the tournament to town signals city wide celebrations, it is the nearest thing Hong Kong has to mardi gras. Inside the stadium, fans dress up, drink, and, if there is time, watch one of the rugby world’s best tournaments. Outside, pubs, bars and restaurants offer special Hong Kong Rugby Sevens deals to lure in the thousands of fans who could not squeeze inside the stadium.

South Stand Party and Sevens Action While play on the field got faster and more skilful, the spectators were also upping the ante. The Sevens had established itself as the hottest ticket in Hong Kong and was seen as a serious party weekend. Fans, many in fancy dress, arrive early to ensure access to the South Stand, which is now considered so raucous, that entry is restricted to ages 18 and over! Australian rugby team warming up

The legendary South Stand is home to the most boisterous supporters; and the singing, shouting and Mexican waves are generally kicked off by the South Stand crowd. South Stand supporters also doll themselves up, donning costumes from Ghostbusters to cheerleaders, as they cheer their teams along. If your team is not making an appearance, you will be encouraged to pick an adopted country and shout them through to the final. Be warned; the South Stand is also the headquarters for the tournament’s most dedicated drinkers, and while convivial, the atmosphere can be a little too raucous for some.

Hong Kong Rugby Sevens

Immediately outside the stadium is the rugby village, where, for a small fee, you can enjoy a big screen view of the action while within earshot of the cheers of the actual stadium. Wan Chai’s pubs and bars were packed during the tournament and will feature rugby Sevens’ games on TV, as well as prizes, competitions and cut-price deals. Sevens, with its short sharp bouts of action, had always leant itself to being a good day out, but Hong Kong has taken it to the next level. Spectators do not need to leave their seats to queue for a drink. At the start of the morning, a jug of beer and a glass can be bought, and when empty, a shout of ‘San Miguel’ or ‘Heineken’ will bring a barmaid running, armed with a refill. The free-flowing rugby, booze and rock music that blasted out between games made the Sevens a weekend to remember. Television coverage started to draw British rugby fans’ attention to the tournament and the burgeoning sports travel industry started to bring large numbers from the UK, increasing the tournament’s popularity even further.

Traditional Dragon Dance at the Hong Kong Sevens

By the mid ‘90s, the tournament had again outgrown its home, and a new 40,000 seat stadium was built on the site of the old venue. This is the stadium used to host the Sevens today.

What is Sevens? Sevens is a cut-down, speeded up version of traditional rugby. Far quicker, higher scoring and with less rules, Sevens has a far wider appeal than the original fifteens version. The Hong Kong Rugby Sevens is the main event in the larger Sevens tournament which tours the world, with the ultimate champions decided on points earned from all of the tournaments. The Sevens game is often used as a training ground for players to prove themselves before moving onto fifteens. Two of the finest players to grace the Hong Kong tournament have been Jonah Lomu and David Campese, who fine-tuned their game in several years of Sevens’ tournaments before going on to dominate world rugby.

Do I need to be a rugby fan?

Cheers

While rugby is undoubtedly first-class, much of the crowd turns up for the booze and the atmosphere, and not the rugby. The fun of the fast and furious Sevens game is that is lasts under fifteen minutes anyway, and most of the time in the stadium is dedicated to getting into the carnival

Hong Kong Rugby Sevens

atmosphere. Even if you are not a rugby fan, attendance is still highly recommended.

New Hong Kong knock-out structure The final day of this year’s Hong Kong tournament was restructured to bring it in line with the other Sevens’ events on the Series. While the winning Cup quarter-finalists proceed to the Cup semi-finals, the losers now proceed to the Plate semi-finals where they will still have the chance to play for 16 Series points, compared to the 8 points on offer under the previous scoring system. “The new structure creates 3 additional matches involving some of the top teams. As an example, last year’s losing Cup quarter-finalists were Argentina, Australia, England and New Zealand. This year, we also had the extra added bonus of an additional Shield final, which certainly ramped up the excitement of ‘Sevens Sunday’ in Hong Kong even further,” said HKRFU Tournament Director Warrick Dent.

Jonah Lomu

Hong Kong Sevens inspires a global sport Today, rugby Sevens appears in the Commonwealth Games, the fifth Sevens World Cup was held in Dubai recently and a global series of tournaments is run by the IRB. Kenya, one of the countries to emerge through the Sevens circuit, will this year host the Junior World Rugby Cup and rugby Sevens has become an Olympic sport, with medals being awarded in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.

Who participated This year, the tournament was fronted by the 12 core teams in the IRB Sevens World Series - Argentina, Australia, England, defending Hong Kong champions Fiji, France, Kenya, New Zealand, Samoa, Scotland, reigning IRB champions South Africa, USA and Wales. They were joined by Canada, Italy, Portugal, Russia, Tonga and Zimbabwe.

HongKong_2008

Russia marked its first return after backto-back Bowl wins in Hong Kong in 2007 and 2008, while Italy returned for the first time since 2007.

Hong Kong also invited six teams from around the region; with China, Chinese Taipei, Japan, Korea, Thailand and Hong Kong qualifying through the new Asian Rugby Sevens Series established last October. Thailand has returned to the Hong Kong Sevens for the first time since 2004. Big congratulations should go to the players and coaches of Thailand’s rugby team for receiving the recognition and honor of being asked to the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens. Thailand takes great pride in their sports.

Hong Kong Rugby Sevens

Jessica Alba

Information about Stephan Bouwman: Stephan Bouwman began his career in the 2 Michelin star restaurant Landhaus Scherrer in Hamburg, Germany. After winning the ‘Newcomer Chef of the Year’ award in 1994 he then became the Executive Sous Chef in the famous restaurant Bistro Rive in Hamburg. Later, Stephan opened 2 award winning restaurants, Landhaus Flottbek and Gusto. Both restaurants were rated 17 Gault Millau points. Since 2005, Stephan has become a well known chef in Phuket, and is now the Executive Chef and Operations Manager at The Climax Poolside Dining and Music Lounge in Patong.

About Tajima Wagyu Beef: Having the opportunity to work with such a high grade of beef is just fantastic. Every chef knows this is the best tasting beef available. It is so naturally tender that it can be cut with just a fork or chopsticks. The marbling of the beef is excellent. The 500 day grain fed rib eye tastes completely different from any other beef in the world. There is virtually no extra fat on this steak, and all the comments I have had from customers have been extremely positive. Many say it’s the best steak they’ve ever had. I can guarantee the grain fed Tajima Wagyu beef and the 90 day grain fed veal from Jagota Brothers is the best quality Australian beef in Thailand. At The Climax Poolside Dining and Music Lounge, we use only authentic and certified Australian meat.

Regards,

Stephan Bouwman

Executive Chef and Operations Manager

Jessica Alba

Travel Galapagos

GALÁPAGOS The Enchanted Isles By Peter Holthusen

little old man with an affliction that bent him double used to shuffle along the streets of Cambridge after dark with a twinkling lantern in his hand looking just like a gnome straight from fairyland. His destination was St John’s College, where he was a tutor and lecturer in geology from 1868 to 1877. I was to read about him one night when visiting the college for a lecture by Sir Vivian Fuchs, and to learn that he was once a celebrated volcano expert called Professor T.G. Bonney. Naturally, the talk soon turned to volcanoes and it was from this moment as a young student that I gained a burning desire to visit the Galápagos Islands some day.

In 1835, the young Charles Darwin arrived on the Galápagos for a brief five-week visit. He only landed on San Cristóbal, Santiago, Floreana and Isabela, yet from his scant visit he deduced much about the geological formation of the islands and their biology. In particular, Darwin identified 13 different species of finch living on different islands , but he never labelled the islands from which they came. In 1859 he published his revolutionary work ‘On the Origin of Species’. The entire edition sold out on its first day !

One thousand kilometres due west of Ecuador, where four major ocean currents meet, a series of vast undersea volcanoes break the surface of the Pacific. The summits of these volcanoes form 13 main islands and more than 100 other islets and rocks, scattered over 400 kilometres of open ocean. Splendidly isolated and otherworldly in their strangeness, early explorers called them 'Las Encantadas' - the Enchanted Isles: an earthly Tartarus at the furthest edge of the known world. A land fit for fiends, but not for men. These are, of course, the remarkable islands of the Galápagos.

Travel Galapagos

No part of the ‘Beagle’ voyage is today more famous or more shrouded in legend than the time in the Galápagos Islands. When the ship left the west coast of South America for the last time, Darwin was particularly interested in studying the geology of the Galápagos. But when the ‘Beagle’ arrived, Darwin was not impressed with the largely barren and rocky islands, first describing the crater-pocked Galápagos landscape as being “like the iron foundries of Staffordshire”. He soon learned, however, that the islands were of comparatively recent volcanic origin. The ‘Beagle’s’ soundings revealed that the ocean was extremely deep around and between the islands, which seemed to indicate that they were very tall volcanic mountains and not a visible extension of the continent of South America. Although the Galápagos Islands are still an Eden of ecological delight, the first visitors to this remote archipelago also had mixed feelings. The islands were officially discovered by Fray Tomás de Berlanga, the Bishop of Panama, in 1535, when his ship was becalmed in the Pacific and then swept off course on a voyage to Peru. A relieved crew sighted an island, where they found seals, turtles, iguanas “like serpents”, and giant tortoises “a man could ride”. They appear to have been first named ‘Isolas de Galápagos’ by a Flemish cartographer named Ortelieu, in 1536. The name Galápagos originates from a Spanish word for saddle or saddleback tortoise. The Galápagos Archipelago encompasses a land area of approximately 8,000 km. straddling the Equator between 1˚40’N and 1°36’S, and spanning from 89°16’E to 92°01’W. The nearest mainland is Ecuador, which has sovereignty over the islands. The archipelago consists of one major island, Isabela, which represents more than half the total land area, and six smaller islands of over 100 kilometres in size: Santa Cruz, Fernandina, Santiago, San Cristóbal, Floreana and Marchena (in descending order of size). Most of the main islands have both Spanish and English names; the latter inherited from buccaneers and explorers, such as William Dampier, Ambrose Cowley and Edward Davis, who were sacking the coastal towns of Ecuador and Peru from their bases in the Galápagos. Although the islands originally appeared on a map in 1570, it was Cowley who first crudely charted the Galápagos in 1684.

Charles Darwin

Ecuador’s most beloved and popular National Park is no less enthralling now than they were a hundred years ago. The Galápagos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and every year, over one hundred thousand curious visitors journey to the remote islands to behold the wondrously variegated wildlife that inspired ‘On the Origin of Species’. The Galápagos Islands and surrounding waters off the Pacific coast of South America have an estimated 1,900 plant and animal species found nowhere else on the planet. The Galápagos Islands developed out of the Pacific from a sub oceanic lava vent on the ocean floor. This same process created Hawaii, the Azores and La Réunion and it continues today in all three island groups. The geography and geology of the Galápagos are vital to the biology of the islands, and they are situated on the confluence of three of the earth’s tectonic plates - the Pacific, Cocos and Nazca plates.

In the Galápagos, the vent is gradually creeping east with the Nazca plate, forming more islands as it moves. Due to the isolated position of the archipelago, the climate is largely determined by ocean currents.In the cool season, the Humboldt Current flowing from the southeast keeps the islands cooler than their equatorial position would suggest.

Travel Galapagos

The same flora and fauna that inspired Darwin still blossom on the Galápagos Islands today. Appropriately, ninety-seven percent of the islands have Ecuadorian National Park status. The legendary marine and land iguanas, the giant tortoises, and sea lion colonies of the Galápagos are among nature’s most fantastic beings. All of the animal species are highly approachable since their isolated evolution has not hardened them to fear humans. Iguanas and tortoises bask in the sun, just feet away from the photo-snapping tourists. We flew into the Galápagos with Aero Gal from Quito, the capital of Ecuador, via Guayaquil onto the island of Baltra. The United States built an airfield on Baltra during World War II to protect the Panama Canal and their other interests in the region. Today, this is the airport which receives the tourists visiting the Galápagos Islands. It is a small island adjacent to the much larger Santa Cruz Island which has a population of approximately 12,000 people including the Charles Darwin Research Station, officially inaugurated in 1964.

A short bus ride from the airport took us to the dock for the ‘panga’ ride to the ‘M/V Eclipse’, the elegant expedition cruise vessel that would be our home for the next five days. A panga is an inflatable raft with a solid floor and an outboard motor. It holds about eight to ten people and we each sit on the inflated edge of the boat and hold on. Since our group consisted of eighteen people, the two pangas and two guides on the boat worked in perfect harmony.

The 32 cabins on the boat, which were set up to accommodate just 48 passengers, were reasonably large, with spacious outside areas. Facilities included a dining room, a lounge, library/video room, al fresco dining area, sun deck, Jacuzzi and observation deck. The food, service and naturalist guides were excellent, and the crew was completely focused on making our stay enjoyable as well as a successful learning experience. The guides pushed us quite hard as

we had a great deal to accomplish in the time allotted. From the very outset we were cautioned to listen to the guides, stay on trails, not to touch the animals, not to use camera flash, no food or drink on the islands, and not to remove anything from the islands that we did not bring with us, and finally, to be “happy”. Soon after we slipped our moorings on Baltra and were settling in our cabins, we loaded back into the pangas for a visit to Santa Cruz Island.

Travel Galapagos

A two hour hike over volcanic rock took us up to Dragon Hill and back via the Charles Darwin Research Station. The path continued to the old tortoise raising centre - where giant tortoises are hatched and raised to an age where they can be safely put back on their island homes. Most poignant of all is the enclosed section where ‘Lonesome George’, the sole survivor of the Pinta Island subspecies, now resides with some females from nearby Volcán Wolf on Isabela. Despite all encouragement he has failed to take close interest in his companions ! Along the way we saw both land and marine iguanas, sally lightfoot crabs and the sighting of many birds. This outing gave us our first taste of what was yet to be ... a very intimate bonding with all manner of strange and exotic flora and fauna. The Galápagos are world-renowned for their fearless wildlife - but no amount of hype can prepare the visitor for such close encounters. Early the next day, we had a wet landing on Rábida Island that consisted of a one and one-half hour hike followed by a swim in the ocean.

A wet landing is when the panga cannot completely reach shore and we step out into about twelve to eighteen inches of water. We did of course, carry our hiking boots over our shoulder and walk to higher ground before putting them on. A dry landing is usually when the panga reaches shore, but we would often make slow progress carefully negotiating the wet rocks.

Travel Galapagos

We also observed many marine iguanas and sally lightfoot crabs lying all around the shore area. Along the hike we also saw several American oystercatchers, a conspicuous shore bird. The following day, our early morning adventure included a panga ride and then a dry landing on Punta Espinosa on Fernandina Island. During the trip there were sightings of the very small Galápagos penguin, flightless cormorants, Pacific green turtles , blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds and waved albatross. We went ashore walking on slippery black lava rocks, the result of a 500 year old volcanic eruption.

The beach on Rábida Island is dark red sand borne out of the oxidation of the iron rich lava from the volcanoes, and erosion from the cinder cliffs to the west. The beach is backed by saltbush, which hides a saltwater lagoon surrounded by black and white mangrove trees. Visitors usually walk first, along the beach, as pelicans sometimes nest there on the saltbush. After our wet landing, we embarked on a very long walk around the island enjoying incredible scenery and watching sea lions play in the ocean. Young brown pelicans could be seen plungediving into the sea, looking positively clumsy alongside groups of blue-footed boobies. In the lagoon white-cheeked pintail ducks and black-necked stilts are found. Greater flamingos have been known to breed here too, but recent increases in sea lion populations have reduced their numbers. We then went back to the boat via the panga for an exquisite seafood lunch and rest on the observation deck. After lunch we sailed the short distance to Puerto Egas on Santiago Island for another hike. At first sight this landing seemed forlorn, with odd bits of human detritus scattered around. The area was the site of two doomed salt-mining enterprises in the 1920s and 1960s. It was a very wet landing on a black lava beach and we then had to change into our hiking boots. There were many sea lions; they differ from seals in that they have ears and walk differently too.

Back on the ‘Eclipse’ we were scheduled to cross the Equator, so we all gathered on the foredeck; while some of us were on the bridge where we could watch the readings from the navigation satellite receiver approach zero latitude. As we “crossed the line” we all celebrated with drinks and appetizers. After a splendid dinner, a good night’s sleep and hearty breakfast we were all looking forward to our early morning visit to Bartolomé Island via a dry landing. We could see Pinnacle Rock, the most photographed landscape in the Galápagos. We conserved our strength for what was to be a

Along the hike we were also treated to sightings of lava lizards, sea lions and marine iguanas in greater numbers than we had previously seen. They were literally crawling over each other. Every couple of seconds, one of them would spit out excess salt in a squirt from the nostrils. There were also flightless cormorants, great blue herons and several Galápagos hawks preying on baby iguanas. As we proceed further into the interior we were introduced to the mangrove areas and lava cactus. Shortly after lunch and a little rest, our afternoon exploration was a panga ride to Punta Vincente Roca nestled in the northwest crook of Isabela Island, where we saw masked boobies, hawksbill turtles, sea lions and more Galápagos penguins all along the shores of the island. We then rode the swell into a large cave ... an awesome sight and sound as the waves resounded loudly against the precipitous walls of the cave. At one point the panga hit a rock and our guide sitting up front was propelled into the water. He was easily retrieved, but nevertheless clearly unhappy about his sudden dunking.

challenging hike, the climbing of the 372 steps along a boardwalk that leads to the summit of the volcano on the island. And of course, the view made it worthwhile. In the distance you can see most of the central islands, the peaks of Isabela to the west, and on a clear day Marchena, Genovesa and Pinta to the north. While some people stayed to swim and snorkel, others made their way back to the boat via a short panga ride. That afternoon we had a panga ride to Black Turtle Cove on Santa Cruz Island ... a tidal lagoon, with a maze-like complex that took us deep into the banks of mangroves ... white, red and black. Oysters were clinging to the roots and pelicans perched on the trees.

Isabela is the largest of the Galápagos Islands, over 130 kilometres from north to south. It has five of the biggest volcanoes, including Volcán Wolf, which is the highest of them all at 1,646 metres. There are numerous smaller cones. The most notable is Volcán Ecuador, sliced in half by wave action; and quite a sight to sail past.

Travel Galapagos

Perhaps the most majestic sight of all was a school of dozens of spotted eagle rays gliding in unison in the shallows. There were many white-tip reef sharks too, but these are docile sharks that usually feed at night, and are not thought to be dangerous.

As the sun set over the archipelago that evening we celebrated with a farewell supper ... for tomorrow we would be leaving the 'Eclipse' and our last panga ride would be taking us back to Santa Cruz Island for the long and arduous journey home. Our amazing journey to the Galรกpagos Islands came to an end with a bus trip across Santa Cruz Island, a short ferry ride across the narrow channel to Baltra Island and then to the airport. The 90 minute flight back to Quito gave us time to contemplate the amazing sights we had seen over the last five days and the experiences that will live with us for the rest of our lives. The Galรกpagos exist on an endless geological conveyor belt. They are a harsh environment, resisting man's attempts to exploit them, and they have much to teach us about our natural world - its origins and how we can best conserve it. Both fragile and furious, the Galรกpagos is unlike any other place on Earth.

FURTHER INFORMATION Ecuador Tourist Board www.ecuadortouristboard.com Galรกpagos Islands.com www.galapagosislands.com The Charles Darwin Research Foundation www.darwinfoundation.org

HOW TO GET THERE Aero Gal www.aerogal.com The M/V Eclipse www.eclipse.com.ec

WHERE TO STAY An alternative to the live-aboard cruise is to base yourself at one of the Galรกpagos Islands few hotels, which offer guests the opportunity to book day trips to see the wildlife on land and sea.

The Royal Palm Hotel www.royalpalmgalapagos.com

Travel Galapagos

(From left) Nick Turner, VP, Registry Collection, Piers Brown, Founder, Fractional Life, Charlotte Rose Melsom, International Director of PR & Marketing, yooPhuket/Absolute Developments, Bryan Lunt, Chairman, the Absolute World Group

yooPhuket wins

Fractional Life Readers Choice Award yooPhuket, a spectacular collection of 256 apartments and penthouses on the Thai island of Phuket, has won the Fractional Life Readers Choice Award. The award, which received an impressive 60 per cent of votes from thousands of readers of the global shared ownership web portal FractionalLife.com, was presented at the 2010 Fractional Summit in London. Absolute's International Director of PR & Marketing for yooPhuket Charlotte Rose Melsom who received the award, said: "The Fractional Life Reader's Choice Award is the ultimate accolade within the Fractional Property Industry voted for by the independent consumer so a wonderful credit to the yooPhuket project." Piers Brown, founder of Fractional Life said: “Thou sands of FractionalLife.com readers voted and I’m delighted for yooPhuket.”

yooPhuket is a partnership between international branding, design and investment property company yoo and one of Asia’s leading development and lifestyle brands, Absolute Developments so the added security of buying into two internationally recognised brands is also a huge advantage.

Each yooPhuket apartment comes fully furnished with a yoo designed furniture collection and the apartment is ready to enjoy, even down to the last teaspoon. In addition clients can choose from a selection of the most sought after designer interior additions and upgrades to create an apartment that is perfectly unique.

Stand-out interiors are one of the things yoo do best and the contemporary design offers open plan living space with dramatic floor to ceiling windows, opening onto spectacular views across the lake, golf courses and lush Thai island landscapes. The impressive master bedroom suites have en suite bathrooms and walk in closet space. Stylish kitchens are fitted with integrated appliances. Bathrooms have fully tiled walk in shower enclosures and state of the art home technology includes comfort cooling systems and the latest audio visual equipment.

Apartments within the development are available both whole ownership and quartershare fractional ownership offering a choice of purchase options to suit. Prices for three month quartershare fractions at yooPhuket start at £44,000 for a 38 square metre studio, £65,000 for a 70 square metre two-bedroom apartment and £97,300 for a 105 square metre penthouse. These prices include superior furnishings, use of a fully-captained 31foot powerboat and the latest Callaway golf clubs, plus the standard 5 star service management company Absolute Resorts & Hotels are renowned for.

Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s History, A Living History

Thailand’s History, A Living History

Thailand’s History, A Living History A journey through 40 of the country’s most interesting Buddhist temples

Along with love of the King and love of the Nation, religion is at the heart of the Thai soul. It takes physical shape in the form of the thousands of temples, or wats, that dot the country and provide a community focus for every town and village. Some of them are vast and magnificent. Others are small and intimate. Some are modern and practical. Others are intricate and ancient. They vary vastly in architectural style largely according to region. Up to now no book had been published describing the glories of Thailand’s wats. In remedying this, Marshall Cavendish has just published Buddhist Temples of Thailand: A visual journey through Thailand’s 40 most historic wats. It explores the Buddhist temple’s historical position in Thai culture

and the dynamic role it continues to play in everyday life. The kingdom’s best-known sites and rare gems, such as Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok and Wat Phumin in Nan, are brought to life through expert text and more than 200 commissioned photographs. The writer, Joe Cummings, is an academic, a Thailand expert and a travel writing legend. He was one of the original pioneers of the Lonely Planet series of guidebooks as well as author of numerous books on history, archaeology, art, design and religion. He bought all this knowledge to bare on choosing and writing about 40 of Thailand’s most significant and interesting temples. In describing what makes the wats of Thailand such an integral part of Thai community life Joe explains, “One reason many of us

are hooked on templehopping in Thailand no doubt springs from the fact that the monuments are simply so accessible. Like your neighbourhood 7-eleven, wats aren’t closed on Sundays, or Saturdays or full moon days. You don’t have to be Buddhist to enter, and in even the strictest religious settings they’re open to all, regardless of race, nationality, gender or social class.” Photographer, Dan White, is a seasoned photojournalist having spent 2 decades roaming the world for glossy magazines. Dan is no stranger to Absolute Thai having been a key contributor since the magazine started. For Buddhist Temples of Thailand Dan traveled the country from north to south and east to west visiting each and every wat in turn. All this was done by

Thailand’s History, A Living History

motorcycle which is a story in itself – a journey of 12,000 kilometers. For Dan this was a voyage of discovery. Dan describes the appeal of coming across hidden gems, “I never knew what Joe had in store for me next. Nan in the far north of Thailand remains a treasure trove of the most beautiful architecture and fascinating traditional culture. More hidden gems around Chiang Mai and Lampang – places that even many locals have never heard of such as Wat Lai Hin or Wat Ton Kwen. Fading, elegant and exquisite testaments to craftsmen and priests from a distant era, it was often the details that were spellbinding. The tiny delicate relief sculptures of a greedy cat tracking a clueless and possibly doomed bird on a gate to a place that initially seemed crumbling. A faded painting in a far corner

of Buddha in his last moments.” In addition to photographing the temples themselves Dan photographed much of the daily life that goes on in and around the wat. The book opens with a photo essay of monks and lay people going about their daily business – an early morning alms round, a temple fair, fortune telling outside the temple grounds and daily religious rites. Buddhist Temples of Thailand is a journey that takes you on a tour of some of the most wonderful places Thailand has to offer, each location rich in history and part of the fabric of the local community.

“One reason many of us are hooked on temple-hopping in Thailand no doubt springs from the fact that the monuments are simply so accessible.”

Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s History, A Living History

Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin

By Graham Haslam

his edition’s course review required one of the team to travel to the Royal Resort town of Hua Hin, so we sent perennial backpacker and travel guru Graham Haslam to see what they had to offer and his first discovery was this, “How do you cure an incurable backpacker.” You send them to the Banyan Golf Club and put them in the Club Suites. It is heaven. You are picked up by a friendly, helpful driver and smiling ladies greet you at the entrance; it is warm, welcoming and Thai style all the way. Every building here has a Thai exterior; from the pro shop and the club suites, to the starters hut. Even the drink kiosks have a Thai feel to them as does both the Terrace Restaurant and Mulligan’s Pub. And it is here at Mulligan’s that you must start your Banyan Experience. If you look in a thesaurus for “sweeping views” you will the see a photo of the view you get from Mulligan’s Pub; in the foreground you have the front nine holes with the Burmese mountains in the background. If there is a better place to watch the sunset in Hua Hin, I certainly haven’t found it.

From the bar, the view over to the right, has you looking back up the 5th fairway, with its crisscross patterns cut in the grass, it is so impressive you could be forgiven for thinking you’re here to watch the next US PGA tournament, not to actually play this excellent golf course. The golf course is 8 kilometres from Hua Hin, set back from the main road amongst the mountains. It was developed on a former pineapple plantation and many plants remain, hopefully you won’t get too close a look at them, but they definitely add colour to the course. Many of the trees that lined the area have been kept, and labelled, to keep the natural beauty of the area. A key decision when deciding to develop the land three years ago was the presence of the trees, so why lose them? A huge natural water feature which sits between the 3rd and 4th holes provides all the required irrigation for the course. There are 1 million cubic litres of water held in the lake, enough to supply the maintenance team with water for 12 months, should it be required.

Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin

The course had its much anticipated Grand Opening in February 2009, and has had nothing but praise heaped on the facility since.

Course designer Pirapon Namatra has done an excellent job of providing a golfing challenge for those who want to take on the black tees, whilst still giving the holiday golfer an enjoyable round of golf from the white tees. No effort was spared in this endeavour, to the point where after the course was developed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the 3rd hole was redesigned to play downhill rather than uphill, which has resulted in the interesting feature of a greenside bunker beside the tee box!

Every detail has been developed with the golfer in mind; for example, they have movable 100 & 150 yard makers which are measured to the pin every day; giving you every opportunity to hit a good score.

Hole 7 is rated as stroke index 1, due to its length of 447 yards from the blue tees. But there is little in the way of danger, so two good hits will get you on or very close to the green. The bunkers are a healthy 270+ yards from the tee and the nearest bunker to the green is 100 yards short, so easily avoided. This means that unless you are a scratch golfer, you have a good chance to get away from the hardest hole on the course with a net par. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take that any day. My favourite hole on the course is the 8th, some course management and straight hitting will see you par this excellent par 5. You need to avoid the fairway bunkers down the right, so maybe a 3 wood off the tee if you push or slice the big stick, then CAREFULLY check your yardage and play short and right of the greenside bunkers. This will leave you only a wedge to the green, but it is the smallest green on the course, and you need to be accurate with the length of the approach.

The signature hole is, as is so often the case in Thailand, a very picturesque par 3. The 15th hole has an elevation drop of about 30 yards so take at least one less club. But stop â&#x20AC;&#x201C; look around, take your photo and admire what really is a beautiful view.

Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin

Then start to think about your shot, remember to keep your head down and play through the ball and plop it in the middle of the green. The green is a slight bowl, so the ball will trickle to the middle from all areas. The 18th is worth a mention, it is a nice golf hole and low handicappers will enjoy the challenge of guessing how much of the dogleg right to cut, taking on a long bunker. Then there is a long iron shot to a green that has nothing but air behind it â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so no visual reference for distance.

But I like to take a minute back on the tee, sit under the massive Bodhi tree, reflect and ponder on my golf, my day, my life and smile. Then play the last hole knowing that no matter where my drive goes I need to smile some more.

From here Banyan Golf Club really comes into a league of its own. The attentive, but not overbearing, staff will ensure everything is just right at either Mulliganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pub or the Terrace Restaurant. The wine selection here is second to none of any golf course I have seen. With wine from (and I am not exaggerating) France, Italy, South Africa, California, Thailand (Hua Hin no less) and predominately Australia, there is a strong chance you will find a wine that tickles your taste buds. As the wines are all kept in temperature controlled storage, they will be full of flavour; the way

Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin

Then, if you are really lucky, your next stop will be upstairs at one of the luxury appointed Club Suite rooms. Perfectly soft beds, that you fall into, are romantically lit with a number of lanterns but plenty of natural light during the day. The ‘Water’ room even has its own pool overlooking the first hole. I was starting to understand how Goldilocks must have felt; it seemed that everything at Banyan Golf Club was just right.

the winemaker intended them to be. Management company GLS Asia Ltd were appointed to manage & operate Banyan Golf Club in January 2008 and General Manager, Stacey Walton, is doing an amazing job. His colleague, Stuart Daly has a background in tourism, and he ensures that unrivalled hospitality will always be available in abundance - even if the birdies are not. It’s the last morning of my stay and I guess I will have to leave soon, but before I check-out I’m going to order a bowl of porridge; I bet it will taste just right.

Banyan Golf Club, Hua Hin 101 Moo 9, Tab Tai, Hua Hin, 77110 Prachuabkirikhan, Thailand Tel +66(0) 326 16200 Fax +66(0) 326 16222 Mobile +66 (0) 860617110 www.banyanestatehuahin.com

Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin

LEARN TO PLAY THE FAT-AND-RUN By Andrew Joyce

With modern courses being set up more and more like US Opens, with especially nasty greenside rough, it pays to diversify your short game. Add this shot to your short game arsenal so as not to get left behind.

For this shot you're going to want to use your most lofted wedge. In the case of most players nowadays that would be a 60 degree lobwedge.

I would use either my 54 or 60 degree depending on how much green I had to work with. More green - 54 degree. Less green 60 degree. More often than not I will use the 60 degree wedge as this shot should release and roll like a bump and run.

THE SET UP The set up is the same as a normal chip shot with your weight favouring your left side and the ball positioned back of centre in your stance.

NOW, WITH THE FAT-AND-RUN SHOT, WE ARE INTENTIONALLY GOING TO HIT THE BALL FAT. SOMEWHAT LIKE A BUNKER SHOT OUR AIM IS TO HIT ONE OR TWO INCHES BEHIND THE BALL.

THE SWING

First I’m going to grip the club a little tighter than normal. This will ensure the club face stays open through impact. Also I am going to take the club away a little steeper than normal to make sure the clubhead doesn’ t get snagged up in the rough. This will also create a descending blow behind the ball. Notice the abbreviated follow through. This should occur naturally as the club is slowed down by the rough through the impact zone.

MY MAIN OBJECTIVE IS TO GET THE BALL ROLLING LIKE A PUTT. AS WITH A NORMAL CHIP AND RUN SHOT WE WANT TO GET THE BALL ROLLING ON THE GREEN AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THIS WAY WE’ RE TAKING AS MANY VARIABLES AS WE CAN OUT OF THE EQUATION, HENCE, SIMPLIFYING THE SHOT. MY GOAL WITH THIS SHOT IS TO ROLL IT CLOSE FOR AN EASY PAR SAVE AND IF IT DROPS IN FOR BIRDIE, WELL THAT’ S JUST A BONUS!

Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin

ROOM RATES START FROM 1,300 THB/NIGHT LUNCH SPECIAL 139 THB (SOUP,ENTREE AND SOFT DRINK)

205-205/2 RAT UTHIT 200 PE RD. (OPPOSITE CHRISTIN MASSAGE) KATU PATONG PHUKET THAILAND 83150 T: 076 344 059-60 F: 076 343 059 Email: CONTACT@LIMBURI.COM WWW.LIMBURI.COM

As promised in this issue we are giving away the actual wedges used by Alvaro Quiros at the Dubai World Championship. These wedges are mounted in a fabulous frame and come signed along with a letter of authenticity. For your chance to win these fantastic wedges, simply answer the question below and send all of your details, including your name, address, and email to: Andygolfpro@Absolutethai.com

Question: What position did Alvaro Quiros finish in the 2009 Race to Dubai? One lucky winner will be chosen at random on May 29th, and will be contacted directly. Deadline for entries May 28th, 2010:

Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin

Chaweng Cove Resotel

Chaweng Cove Resotel: Your second home on Chaweng beach

islands are defined by the waters that surround them, Koh Samui deserves to be popular: its coastline offers palm-fringed beaches, clean sand and a sea that’s warm all year round. Since the island’s favorite beach is Chaweng, you can expect a truly wonderful holiday here. The sands are the island’s best, white and fine, and the sea is clear here with colors that range from blue through to turquoise. The beach at Chaweng is some 5 kilometers long and beautiful throughout. If you approach from the sea, you have no idea at all that Chaweng town actually exists: all you glimpse are a few buildings between the trees. Yet the town is very much there, right behind the strip of hotels that fronts the beach. Follow Chaweng’s beach road and you’ll have dozens of opportunities for shopping, snacking, fine dining, and pubbing and clubbing. The town comes alive in the evening, and if you’re looking for a party scene, Chaweng always provides it. With plenty of choice of where to stay, hotel competition is stiff and mere survival is tough. Chaweng Cove Resotel is one of the successful resorts on the island; it’s been going strong for 9 years, and the sheer number of repeat visitors testifies that it’s a place that’s popular enough for people to return to year, after year. Chaweng Cove Resotel is set in the southern part of the town, which is quieter than the center, but still has plenty of nightlife.

The vast majority of the shopping facilities and bars are, however, just a few minutes walk away. You can experience the delights of the beach during the day, enjoy an evening out on the town, then return to the resort and enjoy tranquil, undisturbed sleep. The hotel is styled throughout in an elegant and contemporary fashion. It’s an extremely well-cared for property and has been recently refurbished. Spick and span throughout, with every possible facility, staying here is an indolent and laid-back affair. The staff are extremely attentive and make your vacation very comfortable. No effort is required on your part and whatever you want to do, whether it’s simply have a snack in your room or organize a day out, it’s easy to arrange. You know you’re in a place where the staff really care about you. There’s plenty to do on Koh Samui. If you’re bringing children, they will be made very welcome at Chaweng Cove Resotel. The helpful staff can assist with booking tours – and there are plenty of places to go and things to do, whether it’s a jungle safari, an elephant trek or an exciting speedboat ride out to the magnificent Ang-thong Marine Park, surely one of Thailand’s best day trips. The resort has its own tour desk counter and helpful personnel will provide you with any information you require. They can also make bookings for any of the services to be found on the island.

Chaweng Cove Resotel

If you’ve decided to tie the knot, then Chaweng Cove Resotel offers stylish beach weddings. With the white sand and blue sea backdrop, getting married right on the beach is one of the most romantic options ever. The resort’s wedding planners will tailor-make your day for you and will be happy to provide exactly what you require. Whether you’re just by yourselves or with a list of 40 guests, the wedding will be excellently managed and everyone will be looked after. The Chaweng Cove Resotel wedding package includes a personalized wedding coordinator, master of ceremonies, photographer, wedding cake, romantic candlelit dinner, and 2 night’s accommodation in a beautifully decorated villa, as well as all the decorations, flowers, and hair styling. Not surprisingly with wedding services like this, Koh Samui has become a favorite destination for weddings. Honeymooners won’t be disappointed with the choice of hotel either. It’s a great place to come and spend the first holiday of your life as a married couple. The resort can also cater for vow renewals, anniversaries or, indeed, any kind of get together for friends and family.

Chaweng Cove Resotel

All the rooms are well-appointed, and there are plenty of types to choose from. Each and every room is generous on spacing and is furnished with all the modern amenities you’d expect, allowing you to relax and enjoy your holiday. Air-conditioning enables you to stay comfortable during even the hottest of days and nights, and beautiful bathroom suites with warm and cold showers will fresh you up after a day on the beach. A bathrobe and slippers await you, and getting your hair dry is also no problem as you’ll find a hairdryer in your room. Comforts abound: there’s a satellite TV, mini-bar and tea and coffee-making facilities. For security, all accommodation comes with a private safe. Choose between a Beach Front Pool Villa, Pool Side Room, Garden View Room or the elegant Villas. These offer a whole range of possibilities, and depending what they choose, guests can enjoy, say, having their own Jacuzzi or a private patio. If you choose Family Poolside, you can have bungalow type accommodation with a connecting room, which is ideal for groups, whether it be a family or friends. You can also opt for cheaper hotel-style rooms which are located in the Main Building. There are 22 of these, and are entirely luxurious. You can pick a hotel room with balcony, and have sea views. As mentioned, the resort is right on the beach, allowing you to spend lazy days on the sands. Guests also like to take advantage of the swimming pool which is split into 4 levels. It’s suitable for children too, and you can watch them play from the sanctuary of your sun-lounger. Popular throughout the day, the pool is a focal point for many families and friends. It’s also within a stone’s throw of the beach bar and restaurant. The Sea Almond Beach Bar comes alive as the sun sets and shadows lengthen across the sands. It serves a wide range of drinks as well as cocktails, making this a convivial place to enjoy watching the last of the day. The sea, with its ever changing colors, is just a few yards away making this a picturesque spot. When hunger sets in, the Sea View Restaurant is just across from the bar, and serves up all manner of Thai and international delicacies. No matter if it’s just a sandwich you’d like, or a full-scale dinner, the Sea View will cater to your tastes. The restaurant is cooled by the sea breezes, and you can sit inside or on the terrace. Tasty Thai food comes in abundance with a selection of salads, soups, curries and regional favorites, while international dishes concentrate on seafood, pasta, pizzas and grilled imported meats. You can savor Thai delicacies such as Tom Yung Goong, the country’s most famous soup, which consists of spicy prawns and mushrooms, and is flavored with lemon grass, galangal, chili paste and the freshness of squeezed limes. For mains, try the Khao Ob Sabparod Gai, which is an interesting medley of baked rice with chicken, snow peas and pineapple, the whole being topped with cashew nuts. If Thai food doesn’t tempt you, then the western-style dishes certainly will. Guests love delicacies such as King Prawn Thermidor, where the prawns are au gratin with mushrooms and cheese.Or try the seared Duck Breast, which is an interesting variation using a reduction of grapefruit and sake. There are also a range of western soups to try, such as cream of asparagus or potage vichyssoise – they all come with a garlic baguette or dinner roll. Meat lovers will also love the T-bone steak with tangy sauce or the filet mignon au sauce poivre. Whatever you decide on, it’s a good idea to leave room for the delicious desserts. Not many people are able to resist the White Chocolate Mousse, which comes served with ice cream, blueberries and coulis of raspberry. Naturally, the Chaweng Cove Resotel also offers plenty of Thai-style desserts. Try Kaeng Buad Sam Kasat, a tasty combination of taro, pumpkin and water chestnut in syrup of coconut. The restaurant also offers a variety of wines to go with the dishes, and there are prices to suit every pocket. It’s open to non-guests if you would like to have an excellent dinner out. The resort also puts on special events, enabling you to enjoy dinner whilst being entertained, say, by Polynesian-style dancing or all-time favorite songs, sung by the resident Philippino band.

Chaweng Cove Resotel

Chaweng Cove Resotel is also known for its abilities to host meetings and conferences. The Lotus Room on the ground floor comes equipped with computer, projector, audio-visual equipment and has a wireless internet system. It’s possible to include whatever luncheons, dinners and coffee breaks are needed. During breaks all the resorts’ facilities are available for use. The resort also offers a small library with books in half a dozen European languages, and has its own internet café, meaning you’re never far from home and friends. The library and internet café are housed together, and you’re naturally able to order drinks here, too. The fitness room offers a range of cardio-vascular machines as well as a full set of dumbbells. No need to let yourself get flabby whilst on holiday or even fall behind in your fitness regime. With many sports being practiced on Koh Samui, the staff know where activities. such as bungee-jumping, tae kwon do and Thai-boxing. are to be found. Last but not least, don’t forget to try out a Thai massage. Thai-Thai Massage is to be found right next to the library and offers a spectrum of different treatments, expertly performed by professional masseuses. With its superb location and successfully providing holidays for almost a decade, Chaweng Cove Resotel remains reasonably priced, while offering the best of Thai hospitality.

Chaweng Cove Resotel 17/4 Moo 3, Chaweng Beach, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand 84320 Tel : +(66) 077 422 509, 422 510 Fax : +(66) 077 230 642, 422 174 E-mail : info@chawengcove.com, sales@chawengcove.com

Website : www.chawengcove.com

Chaweng Cove Resotel

Acqua is one of the most contemporary and chic restaurants in Phuket, with a high reputation for the researches and quality of their ingredients and for the extensiveness of the wine list where all the top of the top wines find their places. Chef and owner, Alessandro will introduce you on a culinary experience, where authentic Italian specialty with a contemporary flair will make your experience unforgettable. Acqua can be booked for private lunches, dinners, parties-meetings.

Phuket To Host “World’s First Super Car Show On The Beach” Phuket, Leading Super Car brands are to present at Phuket’s mega event of the year, the Karon Super Car & Music Fest. The world’s first Super Car Show on the beach will be held at Karon Beach, Phuket from 19-25 April 2010. The Karon Super Car & Music Fest is to be held for the first time on the area of 9,000 square metres on Karon Beach. This will be the first of its kind, a Super Car show right on the beach – an ideal location for lifestyle, beach and outdoor activities. Super Cars, including Ferrari, Porsche, Lamborghini, and BMW, with a value estimated at over 300 million baht, will be displayed adjacent to the white sand beach, accompanied by a variety of live music and entertainment for seven nights. The music line-up includes numerous famous Thai artists including Koh Mr. Saxman, Paradox, Error 99, Kai-Jo Brother, Job Banjong, Buddha Bless, Teddy Ska, Gold Red, Mocca, and Ska Chance. Chanut Nawnarong, Managing Director of Infinity Communications & Consultant, PR for the event, reveals that “This is the first event of its kind in Phuket. It will highlight everything that is good about Phuket and show that Phuket is a favoured destination for large-scale lifestyle events.”

Apart from the Super Car show, visitors will be entertained with an automotive performance show, special daily shows, a beer garden on the beach plus celebrity performances on the main stage. The Super Car motor show on the beach combines Phuket’s exotic island flavour with high-end sophistication.

About ‘Karon Super Car & Music Fest 2010’ The event is the first of its kind which will showcase Super Cars on the beach combined with a music festival and outdoor games and activities. The event is supported by Karon City, Phuket Provincial, TAT Phuket. The event is organized by Your We.Wa company, a leading event organizer in Bangkok and is promoted by Phuket-based PR and Events company Infinity Communications and Consultant.

For more information about the show, please contact Chanut Nawnarong (PR and Marketing) chanut@infinity-comms.com, Tel: 089-512-7030 Nungruthai Julakul/ Thanyarat Prombida (Media) pr@infinity-comms.com, Tel: 083-650-6848/ 089-724-0030 Infinity Communications & Consultant, Phuket

McLaren MP4-12C

ABSOLUTE PERFORMANCE It’s a year of change for McLaren, with the launch of their new MP4-12C supercar. Only the second road-legal car that McLaren have ever built, the first being the magnificent F1 back in 1993. The plan is to turn McLaren into a company that builds and sells high performance production cars, boldly moving from selling 100 at present to over 4000 annually over the next few years. That’s not to say they will be steering away from being the Formula One specialists that they are, but simply expanding their production business. Competing with the big boys like Ferrari, Porsche and Audi, isn’t going to be easy but if this up’s the game in the war of the supercars and helps to produce smarter, safer and faster cars, then I say “healthy competition is good”

McLaren MP4-12C By Andrew Parker

ecession, recession recession, will the longest, deepest recession since theGreat Depression ever end? The twinkle of headlights from a bevy of 200-mph-plus supercars at the end of today’s dark tunnel says“yes” and “soon.” Next year, Ferrari will launch its 458 successor to the F430; The McLaren MP4-12C should nudge leading economic indicators upward sometime in 2011.

Thus far, McLaren has granted only brief access to an MP4-12C mock-up as theappetizer for the technological feast it plans to serve in less than two years. Decoding the not-at-all evocative name hints at what’s on the menu. The MP4 part comes from the chassis designation McLaren has used on all its Formula 1 cars since 1981. The 12 is an internal index related to the company’s dedication to power, weight, aerodynamics, and overall efficiency. And the C celebrates a commitment to carbon-fiber technology for future sports cars.

No stranger to road cars, McLaren manufactured 100 F1s (twenty-eight in racing trim) and more than 2100 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLarens (including 722, Roadster, and Stirling Moss variations).

McLaren MP4-12C

American expatriate Antony Sheriff, McLaren is a proud man, and is happy to show off some of the nonproprietary areas of the McLaren Technology Centre, a NASA-grade engineering facility in Woking, England, where MP4-24 Formula 1 racers and SLR road cars are manufactured and where work on the MP4-12C commenced in 2006. To raise the $400 million needed for a new assembly plant, to underwrite production tooling, and to complete the MP4-12C’s development, the automotive arm was recently spun off from the parent McLaren Group. The five remaining divisions -- Racing, Marketing, Electronic Systems, Applied Technologies, and Absolut Taste (a catering enterprise) -- are owned by Daimler (40 percent), a Bahraini holding company (30 percent), investor Mansour Ojjeh (15 percent), and McLaren Group chairman Ron Dennis (15 percent Although Gordon Murray, the brilliant engineer who designed several successful Formula 1 racers and the F1 road car, left McLaren before MP4-12C work began in earnest, his demanding standards of weight and packaging efficiency are clearly evident in this new project. Power is provided by a twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 3.8-liter V-8 engine buried deep in the center of the car behind a roomy two-place cockpit. Many details are still secret, but Sheriff did reveal that the engine will rev to 8500 rpm and maximum output will be about 600 hp, with 80 percent of the 440 lb-ft of peak torque available at 2000 rpm. There’s a dry-sump lubrication system, a flat (180-degree) crankshaft, and variable valve timing, but direct

Britain’s Autocar magazine recently speculated that this engine may be a Mercedes V-8 modified by the German engineering firm Mahle.

McLaren MP4-12C

A seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle delivers thrust to the rear wheels. Getrag, Oerlikon Graziano, and Ricardo top the list of potential development partners, but Sheriff refused to identify the transmission specialist that will be responsible for manufacturing the gearbox for the MP4-12C. McLaren pioneered the use of carbon-fiber composites in key structural roles for its 1981 Formula 1 monocoques and for its 1993 F1 road car, so that expertise naturally trickles down to the MP4-12C. The central tub is a 175-pound hollow-sill molding made with proprietary resin-transfer processes. Supplementary aluminum spaceframe structures at both ends of the car support chassis and powertrain systems. The butterfly-hinged doors are another detail that is handed down from the F1. They should provide ready access to the two-seat cockpit and the arrival drama that exotic-car owners expect. To keep curb weight below the 3100-pound target, the MP4-12C has a mix of aluminum and fiberglass outer panels, two magnesium reinforcement beams, magnesium seat frames, and a custom-designed climate-control system. The centrally located radiators are fed by huge side scoops equipped with turning vanes. A-pillars are reinforced by high-strength steel tubes. To save the heft and complexity of antiroll bars, body motion (both pitch and roll) is checked by actively controlled dampers. The rear wing not only helps stick the drive tires to the pavement, it also serves as an air brake. Carbon-ceramic brakes are available as an option. The nineteen-inch front and twenty-inch rear tires will be supplied by Pirelli. fuel injection did not make the cut.

McLaren MP4-12C

Performance targets include acceleration to 60 mph in less than four seconds and a top speed of at least 217 mph. Cockpit furnishings feature a narrow touch screen at the top of the center console, a small-diameter steering wheel, and a reconfigurable electronic display in the compact instrument binnacle. Steering-column stalks that command the trip computer and cruise control are custom aluminum castings.

An integrated pair of shift paddles rock about a central steering-column pivot point. Instead of using the mouse-and-menu approach or multiple buttons to command important systems, one knob manages chassis variables and another changes powertrain settings. Climate controls are located on the door panels.

After “driving” a virtual MP4-12C on the company’s simulator for eighteen months and extensive testing of candidate shapes in a 60-percent-scale wind tunnel, McLaren personnel built two dozen prototypes for testing.

The trial by fire was 1000 continuous hours (twenty-four hours per day, seven days per week, for six weeks) of track testing. Verification prototypes using mainly production parts will be built next year. A planned volume of twenty cars per day in some as-yet-unconstructed manufacturing facility should yield approximately 4000 cars annually. U.S. sales are expected to account for one-quarter of the production volume.

With the Ferrari 458 dead-center in its sights, McLaren expects the MP4-12C’s price to fall somewhere between $200,000 and $300,000. Follow-up projects include a convertible, a higherperformance edition patterned after theF1, and a hybrid capable of transferring current Kinetic Energy Recovery System technology from Formula 1 racetracks to the road. Our part in this pageant is to pray that the world economy recovers so that McLaren’s ambitious dreams come true.

www.mclarenautomotive.com

McLaren MP4-12C

Phuket Fashion

Absolutely for Charity and Community

Svetlana Kostromitina, Vice President of Sales Absolute World Group, who initiated ‘Time for Sharing’.

Andrew Parker, Managing Director Absolute World Group Thailand, Supachart Ruamsamu, Managing Director Absolute Resorts and Hotels, with gift boxes for children at Coconut Club, Phuket

Svetlana Kostromitina, Vice President of Sales Absolute World Group, supports the Phuket International Women’s Club.

Andrew Parker, Managing Director Absolute World Group Thailand, helped raise money for Phuket Has Been Good To Us charity at the AOCAP conference in October 2009.

ven during the economic downturn, Absolute World Group, Asia’s leading mixed use developer and vacation ownership provider, has not stopped moving and giving. The group always put efforts into finding ways to help charities and local communities.

“Apart from operating a tourism business that creates jobs for people on the Island, Absolute World Group’s philosophy is to contribute to people in need, to help children and people from our resources, and through our network and connections,” said Andrew Parker, Managing Director of Absolute World Group Thailand. The group’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program is lead by Svetlana Kostromitina, Vice President of Sales, Absolute World Group. “When you give, it doesn’t have to be money or products, you can contribute your time and ideas also. Spending time with children in need, playing, talking, sharing experiences, is a great way to help. Everyone can do this. It’s very easy and every staff can help contribute,” Svetlana said. Absolute World Group’s ‘Time for Sharing’ program aims to bring underprivileged children to learn outside of school, and share time with them on their birthday. The program is organised regularly by the Absolute team. Absolute World Group has plans to become involved with more charities and community projects, as well as environmentally friendly projects. Soon to be announced, Absolute World Group are to team up with Dr. Parhatsathid Nabadalung (also known as Dr. Ted), a biochemist from Bangkok and regular contributor to Earthclinic.com, to help people gain a better and healthier lifestyle. "We have a commitment to the community. We believe in what we do and we would like to give back and help people and communities to have a good quality life,” Andrew concluded.

Phuket Fashion

Phuket Fashion Spectacular at Royal Phuket Marina Beach fashions and urban casuals, set against a multi-million dollar backdrop

Phuket Fashion

Chanut Nawnarong, Managing Director of Infinity Communications & Consultant, RPM Fashion Session organizer (left), Murat Can Sakarya, Event Manager of Royal Phuket Marina, (second from right), David C Tyson, owner of Skipper’s Bar & Restaurant, (fourth from left) and Phuket professionals who presented leading fashion brands on the catwalk.

the 20th of February, Phuket turned on the style with a fashion spectacular at Royal Phuket Marina. Over 200 guests were treated to a catwalk show of international and Thai clothing brands and accessories on the boardwalk in front of Skipper’s Bar & Restaurant. “We decided to use working Phuket professionals, as opposed to professional models. The idea was to showcase the great fashion available on the island by people who live and work here,” said Chanut Nawnarong, Managing Director of organisers Infinity Communications & Consultant. Four fashion sets were presented: Rip Curl, Calvin Klein Jeans, Island Shop and StarBlu. Accessories and jewellery were by Sandy. Over a million baht of fashion was modeled to a multinational audience who enjoyed the fashion feast. This was the first event of its kind on Phuket; a marina-side fashion show, showcasing fashion brands available on Phuket, by Phuket professionals.

Phuket Fashion

Royal Phuket Marina's boardwalk was turned into a red-carpeted catwalk in front of Skipperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bar & Restaurant for the evening. The setting could have challenged any show in Milan, Paris, London or New York; with a clear sky, catwalk lighting and a marina backdrop filled with multi-million dollar yachts. Phuket's paparazzi and TV crews were on hand to record the event. Guests wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t disappointed with many making their own fashion statements in glamorous and glitzy stunning evening dresses, mixed with some tropical chic numbers. No hats were seen, except those on the models.

Phuket Fashion

“The models were great, and they were all stars on the night. It was a pleasure working with them and also the fashion brands – each of the brands was very cooperative and keen to promote the Phuket market,” commented Khun Chanut. “A number of brands have already shown interest in doing more events on the island as they see Phuket as a key market for them.” Infinity Communications & Consultant is a professional PR and events management company based on Phuket Island servicing the property and hospitality industry with clients in Phuket and Bangkok. RPM Fashion Session was held at Royal Phuket Marina and was sponsored by Global i-care™, RevolutionZ and Royal Eastern Beverage.

www.infinity-comms.com www.royalphuketmarina.com www.skippersphuket.com.

Phuket Fashion

Horoscope Phuket Fashion

Apr - May 10 Aries

Mar 21/Apr 20

Getting a little peace and quiet should be your first priority. You’re just recovering from a period of frenzied activity. By taking this opportunity to rest, you’ll be in good shape for the challenges that face you early next month. Pursuing an interest in esoteric subjects like astrology, ESP, or telekinesis will be enjoyable. If you get an idea for a science fiction story, be sure to jot it down.

Taurus

Apr 21/May 21

Who you know is more important than what you know. Be sure to network at every opportunity. Have a supply of business cards on hand; you’re sure to meet someone who will advance your social life. New friends will introduce you to a hobby, cuisine, or pastime that gives life a welcome dash of spice. Be sure to clean up your home, as a last minute visitor will stop by. You love entertaining people, so long as your surroundings are beautiful and comfortable.

Gemini

Mar 22/Jun 21

Cancer

Jun 22/Jul 23

You’re making new career plans, which makes your loved ones nervous. They may thrive on security, but you crave adventure. Entering a hi-tech industry will cause your professional star to rise. It might also enable you to live abroad. Although you hate uprooting a youngster, it’s the only way to take advantage of the opportunities ahead. Do everything in your power to assure your young friend that the upcoming changes will be beneficial for everyone involved.

A chance to expand your horizons will fall into your lap quite unexpectedly. This is your big chance to study alongside a respected teacher, chef, or artist. Their methods of instruction will be unconventional, but they will be effective, too. Don’t question their advice; just lean into it. The competition for a well paid job will be fierce. Be ready to face down a rival. Your skills are far superior to theirs, but you need to promote them accordingly.

Leo

Jun 24/Aug 23

An intimate relationship takes an exciting new turn. You and your beloved won’t be able to keep your hands off each other in the week ahead. Sneaking off to a private location will give life a welcome dash of adventure, but you should still make time to attend a glamorous party. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to make a public splash. Someone who admires your leadership ability will offer you a glamorous job. Everything is coming up roses!

Virgo

Aug 24/Sep 23

Forming a business partnership will give you access to an unusual organisation. In the past, you were forced to take a back seat to people whose skills were inferior to yours. Now you have a chance to show off the full extent of your talent. A benefactor will give you the funds to launch a creative project that is in keeping with your spiritual values. Working to help underprivileged people, stray animals, or a struggling neighbourhood gives you a sexy sparkle.

Libra

Sep 24/Oct 23

If you’ve been looking for work, you could find an unusual one related to air travel, technology, or medical research. Although you may not have much previous experience in this field, you will take to it like a duck to water. You Librans are marvellously adaptable! A dynamic friend wants to set you up on a blind date. Take them up on it as it will put you in the path of romance. If you already have a partner, your beloved will make one of your dreams come true.

Scorpio

Oct 24/Nov 22

You’re entering an exciting new phase, one that is filled with romance and adventure. If you have a lover, the two of you will rediscover the passion that first drew you together. You may decide to launch a money making or creative venture together. If you’re single you might meet someone special at a technology store or computer class. Don’t be afraid to throw your weight around with an indecisive boss. By taking control of a difficult situation, you’ll put yourself in line for a promotion.

Sagittarius

Nov 23/Dec 21

An opportunity to spend more time at home changes the tone of your personal life. Lately, you’ve been spending lots of time at clubs, restaurants, and pubs. Now you’re able to rest and relax in your own safe haven. If you’ve been thinking of buying your own place, start looking around now. You could find a really unusual spot in an out of the way neighbourhood. Having an unconventional home suits your inner rebel. It will also trigger a new friendship.

Capricorn

Dec 22/Jan 20

Learning a valuable skill will enable you to mix with some unusual people. You’ve never considered yourself to be particularly adept with technology, but that’s about to change. Now you have a good teacher, you’re able to work equipment with relative ease. This makes you a hot commodity on the job market. It also helps you do complicated jobs around the house. You’ll be able to save lots of money on repairs by doing the work yourself.

Aquarius

Jan 21/Feb 19

Take time to smell the flowers before it’s too late. For the past few weeks, you’ve been working day and night. Small pleasures like good food, stimulating company and beautiful surroundings have escaped your attention. If you don’t change your focus, you’ll burn out fast. A new moneymaking opportunity will become available. Although it’s a risk, you should strike while the iron’s hot. Your new job will give you more time to relax and enjoy yourself with friends.

Pisces

Feb 20/Mar 20

You have a marvellous opportunity to reinvent yourself in a radical way. Changing your hairstyle, updating your image, and switching industries are among the possibilities. If you’ve been longing to come out of your shell, now is the time to do so. If you have difficulty getting motivated to exercise, hire a personal trainer who will make sure you go to the gym, even on those days you’re fed up and tired. Beware of giving someone access to your cash.

Phuket Fashion