Absolute Thai Magazine 26

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Contents 8 W h at ’ s O n Upcoming Events in Thailand

14 H e a lt h & W e ll- b e i n g Thanyamundra IMAGE: s_bukley / Shutterstock.com

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o v e r F e at u r e C Mila Kunis

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A Ta l e o f T w o I s l a n d s i n t h e S u n Bali vs Phuket

45 T r av e l – AUSTRA L IA A Taste of New South Wales 54 K i r i m aya M o u n ta i n r e s o r t Distinctively Natural 60

m e r ce d e s SLK 55 AMG

68 T h e co a s ta l j a u n t A cycle ride down Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard

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WELCOME TO ABSO LUTE THAI L I F ESTY L E MAGA Z INE f e b r u a r y/ m a r c h 2 012

It is early 2012 and there are a lot of things going on in Thailand during this time of the year. Check out the “What’s On” section to see when and where festivals, shows and parties are going on around the country. Let’s just hope that the Mayans were not right and this is the last year for our wonderful planet.

For anyone who saw the Black Swan movie last year, Mila Kunis was a standout performer with her sexy ballet moves and hot make out session with foxy Natalie Portman. This Ukrainian born actress has had an up and down television and movie career but, thanks to role in Black Swan, is set to make a major and permanent move to the big screen. Check out her rise to fame story in this issue.

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Other articles of interest include writings on two resorts that have the privilege of residing next to one of the best national parks in Southeast Asia. Kirimaya and Muthi Maya resorts offer their guest unparalleled luxury accommodations while also being surrounded by pure nature.

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IMAGE: Featureflash / Shutterstock.com

The new Mercedes-Bens SLK 55 AMG is an amazing piece of machinery and reading about a jaunt across the Thai countryside into Cambodia on a bicycle makes for good reading.

So please enjoy this information packed issue that we worked hard to bring you, and be sure to enjoy the cool season while it is here.

TIM KNIGHT EDITOR

CREDITS CHAIRMAN: Bryan Lunt Bryan.Lunt@AbsoluteThai.com EDITOR: James Chanodom Editor@Absolutethai.com FEATURE EDITOR: Tim Knight TimKnight@AbsoluteThai.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Jason Hull Advertising@Absolutethai.com PUBLISHER: San, Sea and Sand Co. Ltd. PRINTING: Phongwarin Phongwarin@inet.co.th

Advertising Sales GENERAL MANAGER: Callum Mckay Callum@AbsoluteThai.com Mobile: +(66) 083 596 7537 Loran Wanigasooriya: Media Consultant Loran@AbsoluteThai.com Mobile: +(66) 086 267 8235 Vinda Kallayanamitr: Media Consultant Vinda@truemail.co.th Mobile +66 (0)86 355 6218 Paul Eastland: Media Consultant Paul@AbsoluteThai.com Mobile +66 (0)80 826 2315

Absolute Thai is published by San, Sea and Sand Co. Ltd. Registration Number 8837354810366. Registered address 42/11 Taveewong Road, Kathu, Patong, Phuket Tel: 076 342 147. Printed by Phongwarin LTD., Samutprakarn. All material is strictly copyrighted and all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without prior permission of the copyright holder. While every card has been taken in the production of this publication, the publisher takes no responsibility for an errors, loss or omissions that may occur.

ABSOLUTE THAI WHAT’S ON

What’s On

Upcoming Events in Thailand february – march 2012

IMAGE: chrisdouglas123 / Shutterstock.com

IMAGE: PiyachatS / Shutterstock.com

THE ANNUAL KALASIN PRAE WA SILK FESTIVAL February 26 - March 7, 2012 Venue : Rim Pao Hotel, Amphoe Muang Kalasin

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he intricate and colourful designs of Prae Wa – the ‘queen of silks’ makes this fabric, the most exquisite and most famous of all of the handicrafts of Kalasin Province. The fabric is woven by the Phu Thai settlers, descendants of Vietnamese immigrants from Meung Taeng.

Another key element of the Silk Festival is The Best of Kalasin fair. Visitors to the fair are able to shop for a wide-range of local products and merchandise, especially Prae Wa silk, ready-to-wear clothes in Prae Wa silk, as well as gems.

Contact information: Tourism Authority of Thailand, Khon Kaen Office

The annual Kalasin Prae Wa Silk Festival, the largest cultural festival of Kalasin Province, opens with a grand ceremony, followed by a spectacular procession.

For festive fun and entertainment, the silk festival also features a variety of contests and competitions. These range from:

Tel: +66 (0) 0 4324 4498 - 9 Fax: +66 (0) 4324 4497 E-mail: tatkhkn@tat.or.th IMPORTANT Event dates and program details may be subject to change.

Many of the festivals and events listed on Thailand’s official calendar of annual events are traditional Buddhist or folk festivals, the date of which is either determined by the Buddhist lunar calendar and waxing and waning moon. These are not staged events.

The festivals reflect the rhythm of life in rural Thai villages and local traditions as observed in times past. To ensure you have the most updated information, please reconfirm details prior to travel.

• A contest of the finest Prae Wa silk • The decoration of shops using Prae Wa • A Prae Wa Costumes Contest • A Musical and Ballroom Dance contest • A Song and Dance contest • A “Pong Lang” folk entertainment contest

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IMAGE: JonMilnes / Shutterstock.com

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THE 16th ANNIVERSARY OF TRANG UNDERWATER WEDDING CEREMONY February 13 - 15, 2012, Pak Meng Beach, Trang Province

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‘Kin Nieow’ Ritual Trang province will also be sharing another aspect of local culture and tradition with the couples. The traditional ‘Kin Nieow’ rite performed on the eve of the wedding day will also be featured as part of the underwater wedding ceremony. It is an informal gathering of relatives and close friends of the bride and groom to celebrate the joyous occasion. The signature dish served during the evening’s meal is a chicken curry prepared with coconut cream and served with glutinous rice or ‘khao neow’, more popularly referred to as ‘sticky’ rice.

The word ‘neow’ which means sticky is derived from the words ‘khao neow’ or glutinous rice and symbolizes a life-long bond that binds the couple together. The ‘Kin Nieow ritual also hints at a married life that is rich and spicy with varied tastes.

he inaugural Millennium Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony was held for the first time on Valentine’s Day 2000. The event which attracted 30 participants from 28 countries set a new Guinness World Record and put Trang on the world map. Video footage of the underwater wedding extravaganza was seen on international TV networks as well as in print media.

Given its uniqueness and popularity, Trang’s underwater wedding ceremony has become an annual event.

Although it is named the underwater wedding ceremony, the promotion was designed to promote the various interesting aspects of the traditional Thai wedding ceremony and presents an opportunity for couples from around the world to personally experience the enchanting aspects of the Thai wedding and its time-honoured traditions such as the colourful ‘khan maak’ procession.

Blessing Ceremony A blessing ceremony takes place at Pak Meng Beach.

Respected elders and distinguished guests pour scented lustral water over the hands of the bride and groom’s respectively and offer their good wishes.

The ‘Khan Maak’ Procession The ‘Khan Maak’ procession is a ceremonial visit to the bride’s parents to ask for their daughter’s hand. The groom is accompanied by an entourage of relatives and close friends as he calls on the bride’s parents to make offerings of betel nuts, arecas and dowry placed in a bowl or tray. Spirited processions are accompanied by folk dances and songs and enlivened by the exhilarating beat of a long drum troupe. All of these elements add to the visual spectacle of the ceremony

To be eligible, couples, relatives and guests taking part in the event are required to be certified divers. Married couples who wish to renew their vows in an extraordinary but memorable fashion are also eligible.

The Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony was originally launched by Thai Airways International as a novel concept to promote tourism to Trang in Southern Thailand.

As the bridegroom makes his way to pay his respects to the bride’s parents, in traditional ceremonies, the bridegroom’s entourage passes through ‘silver’ and ‘golden gates’ where he is quizzed by friends and relatives of the bride in a friendly banter of questions and answers.

Once the offerings have been made to the bride’s parents, respected elders and distinguished guests pour scented lustral water over the hands of the bride and groom’s respectively in a blessing ceremony.

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Trang Chamber of Commerce 188 Kantang Road, Amphoe Mueang, Trang, Thailand 92000 Tel: +66 (0) 7522 5353, (0) 7521 0238 Fax: +66 (0) 7521 1380 E-mail: info@underwaterwedding.com Website: www.underwaterwedding.com

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ABSOLUTE THAI WHAT’S ON

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NAKHON PATHOM ORCHID SHOW AT THE PALACE March 2012 Orchid Splendour at Nakhon Pathom’s Sanam Chandra Palace

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akhon Pathom province will be hosting its annual orchid show at Sanam Chandra Palace, March 2012. This splendid floral showcase attracts much interest.

beautiful and colourful, many orchid varieties are hardy and durable and will last days longer. Many make great indoor house plants.

However, it is the picturesque setting of Sanam Chandra (pronounced Sanam Chan) Palace that sets the Nakhon Pathom orchid show apart from other floral extravaganzas and trade shows.

Situated in the fertile heartlands of the Central Plains, Nakhon Pathom province is known for its horticultural riches. The province is also a major exporter of orchids.

Local horticulturalists cultivate a vast variety of tropical orchids and are constantly developing exotic orchid hybrids and new cultured varieties (cultivars). These hybrids are of significant commercial value.

The regal splendour of Sanam Chandra Palace – a historic site and heritage home and its sprawling gardens – provides an elegant picture-perfect backdrop for the annual event.

Orchids come in an infinite variety of shapes, colours and sizes. Some varieties are fragrant. They are sold as cut flowers and potted ornamental plants and are in great demand, both locally and internationally. Orchids have grown in popularity because in addition to being

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Contact: Tourism Authority of Thailand Email: info@tat.or.th Website: www.tat.or.th

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8th WORLD THAI MARTIAL ARTS FESTIVAL AND WAI KHRU MUAY THAI CEREMONY March 15 – 17, 2012 At Nai Khanom Tom Monument, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Stadium

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Highlights and Activities

he ancient capital of Ayutthaya is home to the annual World Thai Martial Arts Festival and Wai Khru Muay Thai Ceremony. For individuals trained in the ancient Thai art of boxing or ‘Muay Thai’, the annual Wai Khru Muay Thai Ceremony held during the annual Thai Martial Arts Festival is the most important date on their calendar. Muay Thai boxers from around the world return to Ayutthaya to pay respect to their teachers, and to pay homage to the legendary Muay Thai folk hero, Nai Khanom Tom.

• Muay Thai exhibition • Muay Thai performance • Muay Thai tournament • Visitors with a special interest in the art

of Muay Thai will have an opportunity to learn about this combat sport.

• Live demonstration of the making of Thai handicraft, and Thai cuisine.

Each year, more than 300 boxers from 30 countries including the UK, Canada, Russia, Korea, France, Ukraine, and South Africa, participate in the festival and show their appreciation for the beautiful art of Muay Thai.

Contact: Tourism Authority of Thailand Email: info@tat.or.th Website: www.tat.or.th

There will also be a Muay Thai tournament with boxers contending for the Nai Khanom Tom belt with a cash prize for the weight divisions of 60, 65, 70, and 80 kilograms. There will also be a Wai Khru competition for students.

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YOGA IN NATURE’S MAGIC “Discover Bliss in The mist with Kim Roberts at Thanyamundra”

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here can be few places on earth more conducive to attaining a state of blissful relaxation and complete peace than Thanyamundra, Thailand’s only true five-star organic resort, nestled amidst the mist-shrouded mountains and ancient rainforest of Khao Sok national park. Which is why leading Ashtanga yoga teacher Kim Roberts says the award-winning eco-boutique resort was the most perfect setting she could imagine for a yoga retreat.

2012. Those fortunate enough to be part of the retreat quickly realised they were indeed in a magical place.

Kim has practiced and taught Ashtanga yoga everywhere from post-tsunami Sri Lanka to the Rocky Mountain mecca of Boulder, Colorado and from the cosmopolitan cities of Hong Kong and Paris to mysterious and beguiling Bhutan. But she says Thanyamundra’s combination of serenity, intimacy, breathtaking beauty and genuine commitment to organic farming and cuisine makes it the ultimate setting to explore the more meditative aspects of yoga.

Kim, now yoga master for the innovative Thanyapura Mind Centre in Phuket, led a retreat at Thanyamundra titled Yoga in Nature’s Magic from January 21st to 24th,

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“Thanyamundra is an exquisite place, perfect for experiencing firsthand the benefits of yoga and meditation,’’ says Kim. “The beauty of practicing in such an environment is that you don’t have to work as hard to experience the results of the practice. Yoga is about settling the mind, so if you do it in a naturally quiet and spacious setting, you’ve already got a head start. Plus the food is great and it’s just simply wonderful to be there. There’s nothing like a joyful mind to help settle down and relax. It’s one of my favourite places in Asia.’’

Thanyamundra, just two hours’ drive from Phuket International Airport, was recently voted one of Asia’s top three eco-boutiques and top five Zen Destinations by leading travel site agoda.com, as well as garnering the accolade of being named one of Thailand’s “Big Six Chic Thai Retreats’’ by Britain’s prestigious The Independent newspaper.

Moreover, DestinAsian magazine, the region’s most prestigious luxury travel and lifestyle title, recently elevated Thanyamundra to its 8th annual Luxe List, ranking it alongside the absolute cream of resorts and hotels that opened in Asia in the past year.

With nine Asian antique filled rooms and suites in two modern, Thai inspired golden teak villas, 12 hectare organic farm, meditation rooms, a stunning 50m pool and forest walking trails, Thanyamundra is an impressive retreat offering the finest hotel service, gourmet organic cuisine, and holistic wellness in a breathtaking natural environment.

DestinAsian magazine, the region’s most prestigious luxury travel and lifestyle title, recently elevated Thanyamundra to its 8th annual Luxe List.

Kim said the retreat drew on the foundation techniques of Ashtanga yoga to develop meditative awareness in both the traditional seated meditation posture, in yoga postures, as well as during movement. Mornings saw more invigorating sessions, while evenings were devoted to restorative poses and sitting meditation. No prior experience was needed, she added.

Kim has been a devotee of Ashtanga since 1992.

Her background as a student of Tibetan Buddhism lends a contemplative aspect to her teaching style; her view of the Ashtanga system is as a support to settle the body and mind into meditation. Programmes explore the traditional practice of Ashtanga yoga, incorporating insights from the Buddhist teachings to offer an expanded and deeper view of the Ashtanga practice.

“I started practicing while I was pursuing a masters degree in contemplative psychology at Naropa University

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Today, Thanyamundra’s organic farm is the only one of its kind in southern Thailand with an Agricultural Certificate of Thailand (ACT), part of the International Organic Accreditation Service.

in Colorado,’’ says Kim. “Through sheer good luck, my first class was with Richard Freeman, one of the most respected yoga teachers in the world today. It was probably from him that I developed such a passion for the practice.

and chemical free. Rows of aromatic Thai and Italian basil, dill, coriander and chillies run parallel to white and purple eggplants, red snake beans, winged peas, bitter gourd and morning glory. Avocadoes, papaya, passion fruit, mango, banana, and more sprout besides dazzling verdant rice fields where three varieties of rice are grown.

“These days, I’m more interested in exploring the inner practices that lead to meditation, and I teach Ashtanga in the classical sense – the eight limbed path that includes not only Asana practice but observance of the full range of approaches we can take to settle the mind into its natural state of pristine awareness.” Thailand, she added, was an ideal place to practice. “It’s warm and beautiful, you can eat well, it’s clean, the people are friendly and happy.’’

According to Monsieur Larigaldie, Thanyamundra’s produce is probably some of the most pure and natural food in Asia. “The farm is fed by a beautiful mountain stream, and our pump is the first one to take water out for irrigation,’’ he says. “We don’t use any chemicals or fertilizer, apart from my own compost recipe. And we improve the quality of the soil by planting certain types of legumes, which naturally increase the nitrogen content.’’

At all times of the year, Thanyamundra also welcomes its guests, limited to twenty at a time, to explore the groundbreaking organic farm with Pierre Larigaldie, who oversees the crop fields.

Today Thanyamundra’s organic farm is the only one of its kind in southern Thailand with an Agricultural Certificate of Thailand (ACT), part of the International Organic Accreditation Service.

Since Larigaldie began preparing the earth here almost five years ago, all plantings have been 100% organic

Beyond the farm, Thanyamundra introduces guests to an holistic approach to body, mind and spirit, with

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visiting experts and teachers, such as Kim, renowned in their fields, on hand to offer the best advice and instruction on everything from sports to yoga and meditation to environmental science and visual arts.

Thanyamundra boasts a variety of invigorating fitness and leisure facilities and guided jungle treks will take you into the lair of the lar gibbon, while keen eyed observers might also see long-tailed macaques, Malay sun bears, tapirs, elephants, and even the endangered clouded leopard.

Each of Thanyamundra’s spacious master suites and rooms are fully equipped with modern comforts from high-speed wireless Internet and LCD flat screen televisions to Thai silk interiors and spacious private bathrooms with separate rain showers.

Thanyamundra is the luxury organic resort of Thanyapura, a campus of world-class health, wellness, sport and educational offerings, including the Olympic-standard sports facilities of the ground-breaking Thanyapura Sports & Leisure Club, the Mind Centre, and Phuket International Academy.

Each of Thanyamundra’s spacious master suites and rooms are fully equipped with modern comforts from high-speed wireless Internet and LCD flat screen televisions

Thanyapura offers a diverse portfolio of unique properties centred on one idyllic campus in the heart of Phuket including Thanyapura Sports & Leisure Club – Phuket, a world class sports and fitness facility for elite athletes and amateur enthusiasts, Thanyapura Mind Centre for the cultivation of mental and emotional balance, Phuket International Academy Day School, 77-room Thanyapura Resort (opening 2012), 38-room Thanyapura Retreat as well as Thanyamundra on a working organic farm adjacent to Khao Sok National Park.

to Thai silk interiors and spacious private bathrooms with separate rain showers.

Thanyapura’s leisure amenities extend to a day spa, fully equipped kids and teen clubs, arts studio and performance centre plus innovative food and beverage outlets featuring organic cuisine, wine and cooking instruction. Unrivalled on Phuket, Thanyapura presents the ideal destination for active leisure travellers, professional and amateur sports enthusiasts, corporate groups on offsite retreats, seminars, incentives and team building as well as for the active and wellness needs of the local community.

For more information visit T: +66 (0)76 336 000 E: info@thanyamundra.com www.thanyamundra.com

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FAMOUS

Famous is a brand new venue in Phuket’s iconic Patong that is already enjoying massive popularity, as we begin to make waves in Phuket’s party scene. Uniquely located in the Jungceylon shopping complex away from the usual Bangla Road bustle, Famous offers all that a holidaying tourist or settled local is looking for in parties, drinks, food, fun, entertainment and vibe in Phuket – all with our‘Famous’ twist and style.

Spread over 2 levels, Famous’s nightclub is a vibrant, colourful and fun-filled room of discotheque and dancefloor delight, featuring a roomlength bar with a back wall of LCDs and LEDs showing a mesmerizing mix of visual treats to go with the beats. A state-of-the-art sound system and Phuket’s hottest resident DJ’s pull the room together, accompanied perfectly by 2 lavish VIP areas, a VIP bar and a gorgeous outdoor smokers lounge. - And that’s just the first floor.

One floor up from all the action in the club, and you’re on the rooftop at the ‘Famous rooftop beachclub’. Here you will find the perfect lounging space and outdoor lounging vibe, or an unmatched selection of private cabanas – featuring personal service and sound, LCD screens, air-conditioning and the best view in the house, or party booths and a VIP area where you can host your own party, function or event, with an uninterrupted view of Patong and its surrounds.

Featuring a 25m clear- glass bottomed pool (that looks down into the nightclub, and where bikini-clad models can be seen swimming each night, putting on aquatic shows for party-goers inside the discotheque) Famous has really hit a unique mark with their brand and one of a kind nightlife experience – and not to mention the affordable drinks that are in a class of their own!

FAMOUS NIGHT CLUB & ROOF TOP BEACH CLUB Level 3 & Roof Top, Jungceylon Shopping Centre Patong, Phuket, Thailand PH: 076 366 717 www.famousphuket.com www.facebook.com/famousphuket

Absolute Real Estate T: +66 (0)76 346 282 M: +66 (0)84 445 9595 E: dougstyles@absoluteworld.net

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We also have a comprehensive portfolio of carefully selected homes, ranging from entry level to spectacular Ocean Front Villas.

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ABSOLUTE THAI COVER FEATURE

From Russia with Love

Mila Kunis

WORDS : Tim Knight

IMAGE: Featureflash / Shutterstock.com

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hey say that becoming a movie star is about having a lot of talent and a little bit of luck. In Mila Kunis’ case, the luck part couldn’t be more true. Born in the Ukrainian SSR, Kunis and her family were able to move to Los Angeles in 1991 thanks to the luck of a lottery. After a five-year process, the Kunis clan fled communism and enrolled their daughter at Rosewood Elementary School before she knew even a word of English. Kunis likened this experience to being “blind and deaf at age 7,” an experience that saw her come home every day in tears. But after her father signed her up to the Beverly Hills studios in an attempt to get her to socialize, Kunis was spotted by a talent agent who promptly signed the talented young actress.

IMAGE: Helga Esteb / Shutterstock.com

“My English was a little janky. I didn’t have very many friends. And there was this place advertised on the radio as a place for kids to meet other kids, an acting class. My parents couldn’t afford a babysitter. They said, ‘Great, that takes up our Saturday.’“

Milena Markovna Kunis was born in Chernovtsy, in the then USSR, now Ukraine, in 1983. In Soviet context, Chernovtsy was a kind of notorious backwater.

“It wasn’t, like, a full-on village,” Kunis protests with a giggle. “We had a movie theater. Streets were paved. We had a normal school.” She enjoyed those fine amenities until second grade, when her parents moved the family to L.A., picking their new home for purely practical reasons: They had relatives there. Kunis fell into acting just as pragmatically: “My English was a little janky. I didn’t have very many friends. And there was this place advertised on the radio as a place for kids to meet other kids, an acting class. My parents couldn’t afford a babysitter. They said, ‘Great, that takes up our Saturday.’“ Before she could say the word “royalties,” Kunis was starring in commercials and modelling for the likes of Barbie, Payless Shoes and Guess. By now she had learned English (while attending Hubert Howe Bancroft Middle School) well enough to land speaking roles in vital cultural touchstones like Days of Our Lives, Baywatch and, of course, Walker, Texas Ranger.

IMAGE: Featureflash / Shutterstock.com

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ABSOLUTE THAI COVER FEATURE

At just 15 years old (she was hired when she was 14 but lied to casting directors, who were hesitant to hire a minor), Mila Kunis was cast as the insufferable, manipulative but impossibly cute Jackie Burkhart on FOX’s eight-season-long hit That ‘70s Show. But in a role that was sometimes reduced to nothing more than Ashton Kutcher’s arm candy (shudder), Kunis was unable to do much with her performance and was relegated to starring in bargain-bin classics like American Psycho 2 and Get Over It while her show was on hiatus. Her only other success came when Seth McFarlane chose Kunis to replace Lacey Chabert as the voice of Meg Griffin on Family Guy. Though admittedly fun, the role couldn’t have been wholly satisfying for Kunis, who was used to being in front of the camera.

As a deadly assassin in the Mark Wahlberg-starring video game adaptation Max Payne, and as Denzel Washington’s butt-kicking sidekick in the apocalyptic The Book of Eli, Kunis is becoming a modern-day femme fatale.

After a string of failed attempts on the big screen, including the forgettable films After Sex, Moving McAllister and Boot Camp, Mila Kunis auditioned for the female lead in Judd Apatow’s Knocked Up. Though the role went to Katherine Heigl, Apatow tapped Kunis for the lead in the breakup comedy Forgetting Sarah Marshall opposite Jason Segel and the usual culprits – Paul Rudd, Russell Brand and Jonah Hill. As the witty, gorgeous hotel clerk who mends Segel’s broken heart, Kunis was a revelation, charming audiences whose opinion of the actress was informed most by her performance on That ‘70s Show. Whatever career choices she had made in the past, after her performance in Marshall, this much was clear: Mila Kunis was ready to be a movie star.

We do not picture most star actresses wasting away on the couch playing World of Warcraft, but Mila Kunis, who’s won major points with the geek set, professes to be a fan. It’s a persona that stands in direct contrast to the one she’s been cultivating on-screen. As a deadly assassin in the Mark Wahlberg-starring video game IMAGE: DFree / Shutterstock.com

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adaptation Max Payne, and as Denzel Washington’s butt-kicking sidekick in the apocalyptic The Book of Eli, Kunis is becoming a modern-day femme fatale.

Kunis went back to her comedic roots in Mike Judge’s Extract and the Tina Fey-Steve Carell team-up Date Night. These days Kunis has every reason to laugh.

Without question, Black Swan was the movie of 2010, and a lot of that has to do with Mila Kunis. Playing Lily, the carefree foil and, in one scene, sexual partner of Natalie Portman’s Nina, Kunis oozed sexuality that titillated audiences everywhere. Nominated for both Golden Globes and SAG Awards for her supporting role in Black Swan and with the movie up for Best Picture at the Oscars, though it didn’t make the cut, Kunis has become more than a pretty face; she’s a bona fide star.

IMAGE: DFree / Shutterstock.com

Nominated for both Golden Globes and SAG Awards for her supporting role in Black Swan and with the movie up for Best Picture at the Oscars, though it didn’t make the cut, Kunis has become more than a pretty face; she’s a bona fide star.

The icing on the cake? She’s in the top 10 of this year’s edition of AskMen’s Top 99 Most Desirable Women.

After Portman and Mila Kunis’ intense performances for Black Swan, which required the actresses to train for multiple hours a day and live on a calorie-restricted diet, it’s no surprise that they took on lighter material for their next films, both with the subject matter of friends with benefits. Portman starred in No Strings Attached opposite Ashton Kutcher, and Kunis starred in Friends with Benefits, opposite Justin Timberlake.

2011 was certainly an eventful year for Kunis, both professionally and personally.

Kunis was featured twice on the cover of GQ in 2011.

Wearing a black bra and panties set and a see-through shirt, Kunis helped sell 205,000 copies of GQ’s annual comedy issue in August. She made the cover for the second time, once again revealing plenty of skin, for the magazine’s December issue.

IMAGE: vipflash / Shutterstock.com

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Cosmopolitan, Elle, and W magazine also profited from Mila’s popularity. The Elle issue, which also featured Justin Timberlake, sold 250,000 copies, the magazine’s fourth best seller of the year. Kunis was also one of the actors chosen for Vanity Fair’s annual Hollywood issue.

Kunis was a victim of a high-profile phone-hacking scandal, which prompted admirers to Google her in the hopes of seeing her nude. No such luck, however: Fortunately for Kunis, she doesn’t take those kinds of photos, at least not with her mobile phone.

This summer, Kunis was invited to the Marine Corps Ball in North Carolina by Sgt. Scott Moore via YouTube.

At the time, she made no promises but ended up accompanying Moore to the ball in November.

Look for Kunis in 2012 in the movies Tar, Ted, and Oz: The Great and Powerful (a Wizard of the Oz prequel).

IMAGE: Helga Esteb / Shutterstock.com

Kunis was featured twice on the cover of GQ in 2011. Wearing a black bra and panties set and a see-through shirt, Kunis helped sell 205,000 copies of GQ’s annual comedy issue in August. She made the cover for the second time, once again revealing plenty of skin, for the magazine’s December issue.

IMAGE: Andrey Bayda / Shutterstock.com

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ABSOLUTE THAI JJL Review

Partnering with strong international agency brands can help boost confidence of overseas buyers Dexter Norville, Head of Estate Management at Jones Lang LaSalle Phuket, shares his observation into the challenging relationship between Phuket developers and international property agents.

I

n years prior to the global financial crisis, developers and international agents had great success with their partnership in selling properties in Phuket to overseas buyers. However, the onset and effects of the global financial crisis impacted property sales in Phuket badly between 2008 and 2009, with demand from overseas buyers, particularly from Americas and Europe, dried up.

Some developers started to doubt the value international agents could bring to their project.

As the impact of the global financial crisis subsided, Phuket has seen a steady growth in sales over the past couple of years. This has come as a relief to many developers and agents alike. But some developers continue to question whether or not they really need help from agents.

The Phuket market has a primary source of buyers from overseas. Most of these buyers will be looking towards established global brands as their chosen first port of call when looking to buy property in Thailand -International brands bring assurances to buyers who trust the sales campaign.

In this respect, developers might not need help from international agents, if they are prepared to work harder establishing their brand globally or do not target overseas buyers. Nonetheless, this is not the case for most local developers in Thailand.

other areas like design tips, common area layouts and furnishings. All these will help shorten the sales cycle and help the developer realize its profits sooner.

With continued political uncertainty in Thailand and growing concerns over the debt crisis in the Eurozone, overseas buyers have become increasingly cautious.

Partnership between local developers and international agents should be even stronger in order to ensure confidence of overseas buyers.

A good agent can help direct the developer’s marketing budget in the correct way to maximize exposure at the target market and connect to the buyers directly in their own countries and languages. It also brings expertise in

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ABSOLUTE THAI A Tale of Two Island’s in the Sun

A Tale of Two Islands in the Sun B

oth Bali and Phuket sit 8 degrees from the equator Bali to the south in the Indian Ocean and Phuket to the north in Andaman Sea, but what makes them different?

Phuket by contrast is Thailand’s largest island covering an area of 539 square miles with 39 offshore islets.

70% of the island is mountainous with the majority of its pristine sandy beaches being located on the western coast. While the majority of Thais are Buddhist again Phuket is the religious exception with 30% of the islanders being Muslim.

Bali the famed “Island of the Gods” is one over 17,000 islands in the Indonesian archipelago it measures 140 kms from east to west and 80 kms from north to south. It has a varied landscape, rugged coastlines and sandy beaches; lush rice terraces and volcanic hillsides all of which provides a picturesque backdrop to its colourful, deeply spiritual and unique culture making it a paradise on earth.

80% of tourist travelling to Indonesia only visit Bali so direct international flights are essential the Island has scheduled flights from Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Australia. Phuket is served by more destinations; it also has charter flights from Europe and is connected to the Thai mainland by two bridges.

Indonesia has the world’s largest Muslim community, Bali is the exception with 95% of its inhabitants being Hindu which influences every aspect of the islanders daily life.

For most nationalities when they fly into Phuket they enjoy a visa exemption for a stay up to 30 days.

The same travellers when flying into Bali are required IMAGE: f11photo / Shutterstock.com

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to may US$ 25 or its equivalent for a Visa on a Arrival for the same period of stay. When they depart Thailand their departure tax is include in their ticket; departing Bali they need to have kept IDR 150,000 cash to pay the departure tax as there are no ATM machines in the International Departure Terminal.

Thailand welcomes retirees from the age of 50 who can prove they don’t have a criminal record. They need either capital equivalent of THB 800,000 deposited in a Thai bank a minimum of two months prior to making their visa application or a monthly income from outside of Thailand equal to THB 65,000. The Royal Thai Embassy in their country of residence will issue a visa for 90 days which can be extended to one year and renewed annually providing they continue to meet the requirements for a retirement visa.

IMAGE: Christian Knospe / Shutterstock.com

Indonesia grants visa to national of 24 countries who are 55 with overseas monthly pension income equal to US$ 1,500 plus health, life and third party insurance.

In addition they specify the type of property where an overseas retiree can live; it must have a purchase price of not less than the equivalent of US$35,000 or rented for a minimum of US$ 300, Having renewed an Indonesian consecutively for five years the applicant can apply for permanent stay certificate (KITAP) which is valid for five years.

Indonesia has the world’s largest Muslim community, Bali is the exception with 95% of its inhabitants being Hindu which influences every aspect of the islanders daily life.

Retirees often want to buy homes in their tropical paradise. In Indonesia one option is for a local person or company to buy the property in their name and to simultaneously give the foreign buyer Power of Attorney over the property with total and exclusive right to use, sell, transfer or lease the land combined with a statement that the proceeds of any sale belong to the foreign purchaser and not the nominee.

A more secure way is to establish an Indonesian company and 100% foreign equity is now possible. The draw back is this ownership freehold isn’t possible but Building Rights Title which effectively has the same strength as freehold subject to the companying continuing to use the land. Indonesian land laws are designed to prevent speculation by absentee owners how leave the land idle.

Providing the purchase buys the land, builds a property which is occupied this title is safe.

While in Thailand the Civil and Commercial Code gives foreigners have the same property rights as are available to Thai nationals, however it is under the Land Code Act B.E. 2497 (1954) prohibited for foreigners to own land IMAGE: Gina Smith / Shutterstock.com

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ABSOLUTE THAI A Tale of Two Island’s in the Sun

in Thailand. So with the purchase of a house or villa the purchase of land and the building need to be two transactions requiring quality legal representation to protect the foreigner owners rights. In both countries the legal requirements to buy property are complicated and open to risk without have the right legal advise, renting may be a less complicated option with no capital risk.

All travellers but particularly retirees need to have access quality medical services and as mentioned earlier retirees are required by law to have health insurance to cover medical expenses. Possibly the best medical care in Bali can be found at Sanglah Hospital, Jl. Kesehatan Selatan 1, Sanglah, Denpasar, Phone: +62 361 227 911 to 15 / +62 361 232 603 (VIP rooms) / +62 361 247 250 to 5 (Super VIP rooms) IMAGE: Dudarev Mikhail / Shutterstock.com

Both Bali and Phuket offer a wide range restaurants offering an endless variety of cuisines ranging from seafood to European style pizzerias, burger bars to fine dining restaurant, with an extensive selection of wines.

In Phuket there are many high quality hospitals on admission patients are required to complete consent and admission forms and produce a travel insurance or credit card to ensure the hospital fees can be covered.

Rooms in hospitals in Thailand are similar to a 3-4 star hotel equipped with a TV with International channels, fridge and a telephone. Visiting tends to be flexible and friends and family are welcome stay and extra beds can be arranged.

Both Bali and Phuket offer a wide range restaurants offering an endless variety of cuisines ranging from seafood to European style pizzerias, burger bars to fine dining restaurant, with an extensive selection of wines.

IMAGE: MR.LIGHTMAN / Shutterstock.com

Bali boasts four championship golf courses, and what makes these courses different are the beauty of its lakes, ocean, mountains and rice terraces. In 1997 Fortune Magazine selected Bali Golf and Country Club as one of Asia’s five best golf courses. The best time to play golf here is in the early afternoon. For the discerning golfer interested in nature consider Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club. The course is nestled 1,142 meters above sea level within the slopes of an extinct volcano crater, with walls of dense forest at the back, and a tranquil lake at the base of the valley.

IMAGE: puwanai / Shutterstock.com

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ABSOLUTE THAI A Tale of Two Island’s in the Sun

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When it comes to yachting, Bali is a strategic location, especially among Australians. However there are few yachting locations to compare Phuket’s Andaman Sea.

Phuket has six fine golf courses, one of it’s finest is Blue Canyon Country Club, set on 730 acres of land in a secluded valley. It hosted the Johnnie Walker Classic 1994-1998 and the 1996 Honda Invitations. The world championship course has won numerous awards including “Asian & Pacific Golf Course of the Year” 1999 and was ranked in the Top 500 Best Holes in the World for its par 3, 7th hole.

IMAGE: T Anderson / Shutterstock.com

When it comes to yachting, Bali is a strategic location, especially among Australians. However there are few yachting locations to compare Phuket’s Andaman Sea with its beautiful islands, crystal clear water and stunning geography.

While Phuket wins for yachting, for surfing its Bali, the island picks up the southern ocean swells direct from Antarctica and from dry season from April to November its 12 feet the rest of the year it receives surf of 2-6 feet.

So which will be your island in the sun?

IMAGE: BlueOrange Studio / Shutterstock.com

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The new Absolute Thai app Download Today Owners of the iPad can now download the Absolute Thai Magazine iPad application FREE to read and enjoy at your leisure.

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ABSOLUTE THAI AUSTRALIA

AUSTRALIA A Taste of New South Wales WORDS : Peter Holthusen

W

e arrived at Sydney’s sprawling Kingsford Smith International Airport shortly after 6.00am, just as the sun was rising over Botany Bay. Among my fellow passengers were a group of French sommeliers returning from a pilgrimage to Berry Bros & Rudd, England’s oldest wine and spirit merchant, having traded from the same shop in St James’s Street, London for over 300 years.

I had arranged to meet my hosts, Glenn and Grace Kinsville of Country Trails Private Tours outside of the arrivals hall and as I made my way through the bustling crowds in the terminal, the beckoning sanctuary of their sparkling silver Mercedes-Benz Viano seemed an altogether more pleasurable means of escaping the chaos that surrounded me.

All Country Trails tours are designed to provide discerning travellers with a range of experiences typical of country life in New South Wales. You will travel along picturesque country roads and stop at viewpoints overlooking spectacular scenery. Time is allocated for you to explore country towns for yourself, where you can visit an art gallery or museum, do a little shopping, or simply wander the streets. They have also teamed up with a number of farm and stud owners to allow guests to visit their properties and learn more about their industries.

The flight from London via Bangkok was long and arduous, but considerably eased by their tales of the world-renowned wine regions in New South Wales.

Since the first grapevine was planted at Sydney Cove in 1788, the wine industry here has flourished.

This was only my third visit to Australia, so their passion for Australian wine seemed all the more welcome and curiously timely for I was about to embark on a private charter tour of some of the most beautiful places in regional New South Wales, and along the way would be visiting many of its famous wineries, including the renowned Hawkesbury Valley, Mudgee and Hunter Valley towns which produce the majority of Australia’s award-winning wines.

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Great food and wine are central to their private charter or all-inclusive package tours. For each tour they have

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ABSOLUTE THAI AUSTRALIA

carefully selected a number of excellent wineries along with fantastic restaurants and cafes which use fresh local produce, all cooked to perfection, where the service alone is an elaborate ceremony of almost forgotten rituals.

Some of the best wine regions in Australia are found in New South Wales. Just two hours north-west of Sydney is the famed Hunter Valley. This is the oldest continuously planted wine region in Australia, producing acclaimed Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz. The Hawkesbury Nepean region is also close to Sydney with historic villages and picturesque wineries.

The Hunter Valley is where Australian wine making began. With large-scale producers and small boutique wineries producing a wide range of wine varieties there is something for everyone here. As well as great wine, the region also offers fantastic local produce and a number of award-winning restaurants. And for beer lovers, there are breweries to visit as well.

This pretty valley has the dramatic Barrington Tops National Park as a backdrop and the meandering Hunter River at its heart. Around 120 wineries are located in the small townships from Pokolbin to Rothbury, Mount View to Wollombi, Broke and Lovedale. As a result, wine-tasting is an art form in the Hunter Valley. Some wineries, such as the Margan Estate and McWilliam’s Mount Pleasant have excellent restaurants, cafes and farm shops, many offer wine-tasting classes and most have cellar doors, often with the winemaker in attendance. Indulge your taste buds with a tempting array of cheese, smokehouse produce, chocolates, coffee and olives.

A great way to enjoy a relaxing holiday in the Hunter Valley and sample local food and wine is at one of the region’s many annual events. Highlights include the Lovedale Long Lunch, held each year in May, the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Month in June, and music festivals that are staged amongst the vineyards during October.

The Southern Highlands is a more recent producer, well-suited to producing delicious cool-climate wines.

This delightful region, just 90 minutes’ drive south of Sydney, is known for its heritage villages and old world charm. The International Cricket Hall of Fame at Bowral attracts cricket fans from around the globe. There are equally delicious cool-climate wines produced in Orange and the Hilltops region near Young and excellent cellar doors and good dining options at wineries in Mudgee and Canberra.

the Blue Mountains or ‘Blueys’, as they are affectionately known, have been drawing visitors from all over the world for more than a century.

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Vineyards were established as early as the 1850’s around Mudgee and today, one of the highlights of a visit to the region is to taste the local wines. The speciality is red, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz and you can sample them at one of the 40 wineries in the area.

Food and wine events are regular fixtures on Mudgee’s events calendar. Sample fresh gourmet produce at the Mudgee Farmers’ Market, held on the third Saturday of each month, while in September the celebrated Mudgee Wine and Food Festival attracts visitors who have a real passion for fine wines and culinary delights. Don’t miss local produce from the Farmer’s Pantry, the High Valley Wine and Cheese Co. and local brews from the Mudgee Brewing Company.

Less than two hours drive west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains or ‘Blueys’, as they are affectionately known, have been drawing visitors from all over the world for more than a century. With truly breathtaking scenery, excellent bushwalks and all the gorges, deep valleys, dramatic waterfalls, precipitous cliffs and gum trees you could ask for, this World Heritage-listed landscape is the perfect backdrop if you enjoy adventure holidays, family fun outdoors or simply admiring nature at its best.

Some of the best wine regions in Australia are found in New South Wales.

Just two hours north-west of Sydney is the famed Hunter Valley. This is the oldest continuously planted wine region in Australia, producing acclaimed Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz.

The ‘blue’ haze that gives the mountains their name derives from the visual effects of sunlight through the fine mist of volatile oil released by the vast swathes of eucalyptus forest, and this natural phenomenon is best seen at dawn. Other natural attractions are plentiful in the region. Highlights include the spectacular Jenolan Caves, The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah, the viewpoint of the Three Sisters at Katoomba, the lookouts at Echo Point and Govetts Leap, and the Bridal Veil Falls, the highest waterfalls in the ‘Blueys’.

Some of the picturesque towns in the region include Leura, renowned for its boutique shops, historic Katoomba, considered the capital of the Blue Mountains and home to the recently opened Koomurri Aboriginal Centre, the sleepy little village of Blackheath, Hartley and Lithgow, and of course, the beautiful garden village of Mount Wilson. For the more adventurous, I recommend a visit to Scenic World, where you can ride the world’s steepest railway and take in the views from a cable car.

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ABSOLUTE THAI AUSTRALIA

New South Wales has so much to offer the discerning traveller, from breathtaking scenery, fantastic restaurants, cafes and wineries.

Should you want a change of scenery, you will be well rewarded for visiting the South Coast where you will discover the region’s pristine white sand beaches.

More than 30 national parks, marine parks and nature reserves can be found in this region of New South Wales that stretches from the Royal National Park near Sydney to Eden. The unspoilt natural beauty of the area makes it the perfect holiday destination, at any time of the year. Depending on the season, you’ll be able to see pods of dolphins and whales off the coast, Australian Fur Seals and Little Penguin colonies at Montague Island.

all-inclusive package tour – all you need to do is sit back, relax and take in the scenery with Country Trails Private Tours. Glenn and Grace Kinsville are impeccable hosts and a rewarding journey awaits you.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tourism Australia www.australia.com How to Get There: Thai Airways www.thaiairways.com

As you would expect, the area is famed for its fresh local seafood, which you can try for yourself at an oyster farm or one of the many South Coast restaurants, such as Rick Stein at Bannisters and the Seagrass Brasserie, while the sheltered beaches and wide range of watersports available at Jervis Bay and Shoalhaven, make this a blue water paradise.

Where to Stay: Hermitage Lodge www.hermitagelodge.com.au The Cobb & Co Court Boutique Hotel www.cobbandcocourt.com.au

New South Wales has so much to offer the discerning traveller, from breathtaking scenery, fantastic restaurants, cafes and wineries. Whether you’re travelling with friends, family or colleagues – on a private charter or

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BENI’S BRUNCH IS BACK ON SATURDAY Beni’s Brunch on Saturday features simply the best of show cooking, abundant cuisine selections that capture simplicity, purity and freshness of regional foods, plus smooth live jazz from our resident band.

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ABSOLUTE THAI Kirimaya Mountain resort

Kirimaya Distinctively Natural WORDS : Tim Knight

N

estled into a beautiful national park, Kirimaya Resort and Spa is a wonder among wonders and has no parallel in Thailand. This luxurious resort is situated in Khao Yai National Park which is protected under UNESCO World Heritage status. This privilege allows Kirimaya Resort to offer a magnificently peaceful and serine atmosphere throughout the year. Here, guests can stargaze, watch wildlife up close, traverse nature trails or relish the challenge of a Jack Nicklaus designed golf course. Guests can also discover new culinary adventures with a vineyard tour or enhance their wellness at the Maya Spa, seek mental calmness through Kirimaya’s Asian therapies or simply laze by the pool. There is no daily agenda while staying here so guests feel free and more relaxed.

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Kirimaya’s exclusive 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is set within natural surroundings with panoramic views of Khao Yai’s lush greenery and mountains. The course ranges from 4,875 yards (ladies) to an incredible 7,115 yards (tournament) and with its single-track layout, golfers feel as if they are the only ones on the entire course for a truly memorable golf experience.

Kirimaya Resort is only a brief 2 hour drive from Bangkok. The resort sits adjacent to Khao Yai National Park so that visitors can enjoy all of the services that the park offers along with Kirimaya’s offerings. These include golfing (in-house guests receive a 50% discount off rack rate), driving range, fitness centre, swimming,

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and luxury restaurant and bars. The T-Grill Restaurant, Acala Restaurant and The Mist Bar offer high-end dinning to accompany a stay of comfort. Be sure to read about Kirimaya’s new executive chef David Bedinghaus in this same section.

When it comes to accommodations, Kirimaya has the range covered. Their 42 square meter Plantation View and Horizon View rooms each come with a private balcony while their 84 square meter Terrace Suites provide a large terrace to watch and listen to the wonderful sights and sounds that emanate from the national park next door. For those that really feel like splurging Kirimaya offers four 180 square meter tented villas with private spa pool. Also available is a private concierge. But do not go to bed too early as it is the night that brings out the wonderful sounds of the jungle and canopy of stars.

Kirimaya offers people a chance to either rough it or to just simply relax in decadence. Visitors may either lounge by the pool all day, enjoy a round of golf on a championship course, take a cycling tour, or trek through some of the most beautiful and diverse tropical rain forest on the planet. Either way, warm and comfortable accommodations await them for a night full of tropical wonders.

Kirimaya Resort is only a brief 2 hour drive from Bangkok. The resort sits adjacent to Khao Yai National Park so that visitors can enjoy all of the services that the park offers along with Kirimaya’s offerings.

MUTHI MAYA A Quintessential Khao Yai Experience Inspired by Kirimaya, Muthi Maya Forest Pool Villa Resort is just 2.5 kilometres from Kirimaya but provides a completely new and wonderful experience for its guests. The 164 square meter pool villas provide the ultimate in luxury while still being snuggled up to one of Southeast Asia’s biggest and most diverse rain forests.

Muthi Maya’s outstanding open architecture blends in with its surroundings and captures the essence of the natural living experience.

Each villa at Muthi Maya comes with a large (3 meter x 7 meter) private swimming pool so that after a round of golf on the Jack Nicklaus designed course or a day of trekking and sightseeing in the park, one can jump in the pool for a refreshing swim before getting ready to head out for dinner at the resort’s five star restaurant/

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ABSOLUTE THAI muthi maya

bar Myth Bar. Or, if you prefer, have a personal chef come to your villa to prepare a barbeque meal in the privacy of your villa’s backyard. Muthi Maya also offers a premium personal butler service to ensure that guests’ every need can be anticipated and catered for.

And since the arrival of the new executive chef, David Bedinghaus, food and beverage quality and service has skyrocketed.

For those that want to experience a culinary delight Myth Bar cannot be beat. This open air bar and restaurant is located on the upper level of Muthi Maya’s lobby and enjoys a 360 degree panoramic view of Khao Yai National Park as well as allowing guests to hear the wonderful sounds that emit from the nature close by.

Myth Bar serves a Japanese and Italian fusion cuisine, and each table is situated in its own private and secluded enclave allowing for a spectacular natural backdrop.

As well, for an intimate dining experience, Myth Bar offers private dining in poolside cabanas. To mix things up, guests are always invited to head over to the Kirimaya Resort to enjoy dining at either the T-Grill Restaurant or the Acala Restaurant. Shuttles go back and forth between the two resorts quite frequently.

Just because this resort is secluded in a tropical rain forest does not mean that the guests need to rough it or miss out on the comforts of home.

Some of the amenities offered inside the luxurious villas include: a poolside daybed with mountain view, large LCD screens with cable TV and DVD/CD players, wireless broadband internet access with 24 hour IT support, a Jacuzzi, bathrobes and slippers, a full minibar with tea and coffee, and a fully equipped pantry. Just because this resort is secluded in a tropical rain forest does not mean that the guests need to rough it or miss out on the comforts of home, just the opposite actually. Try an in-villa spa treatment to find out for yourself.

Muthi Maya resort is sure to satisfy guests with even the most discerning tastes. It was designed and built with the idea of allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful nature that surrounds the resort while providing a comfortable, luxurious and peaceful place for the visitors to return to. After a day of trekking and sightseeing in one of the most beautiful places on earth, it is very comforting to know that Muthi Maya is there waiting for you with good food, good service and a comfortable place to lay your head.

David Bedinghaus Kirimaya Golf Resort & Spa and Muthi Maya Forest Pool Villa Resort have just taken a larger step to providing their guests with a truly wonderful dining experience by the hiring of David Bedinghaus as the new executive

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winter months of November till February. Huge numbers of flowering trees and shrubs, in addition to wild orchids and other rare plants bloom from December to May. Winter is also the best to spot wild elephants. In February, birds come into full song with the onset of the mating season; sightings of migrant winter birds from further North can be spotted up till May. The warm season starts and normally lasts until the end of October. From the middle of June up to the end of July, many wild orchids bloom and many different butterflies can be seen. During this season, it rains 2 to 3 hours during the daytime and Khao Yai often changes into a “forest in the mist” that many holiday makers find extremely charming.

chef. David brings over 30 years of culinary experience to his new posts having worked in North America, Southeast Asia, China and the Middle East. David began his career at the Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles, California. In 1991, he was transferred to the Bangkok Regent Hotel, and this began his love for international cuisine and travel. David has worked for many fine resorts in Thailand and considers this wonderful country his “second home.”

David is very excited about his new position and has big plans: ” I heard from a colleague that Kirimaya was about to start an organic farm lead by my good friend and previous colleague from the Regent and Anantara days, Khun Prakard, Group General Manager. As he described his and the owner’s vision for the organic farm I knew right then I wanted to be apart of this new feature.

We will be integrating the organic features into our entire food offering at both Kirimaya and Muthi Maya.”

The T-Grill Restaurant, Acala Restaurant and The Mist Bar are all three about to become world class establishments thanks to the experience and insight of David.

Popular activities in the part include butterfly, bird and animal watching, as well as trekking. The Park has numerous butterflies and birds. Surveys indicate that over 293 species of birds use Khao Yai as a feeding ground while Khao Yai is the habitat of over 200 species.

In addition, the park is home to an abundance of wildlife.

The most frequently spotted animal is the deer that grazes on grass plains and sometimes come to be fed around the park office. Other animals spotted include elephants, sun bears, wild boars, monkeys, tigers, gaurs, and mountain goats. To facilitate animal watching the park built 2 wildlife watchtowers at Mo Singto and Nong Phak Chi.

Khao Yai National Park Up there on the podium with some of world’s greatest parks, Khao Yai National Park is Thailand’s oldest and most visited reserve. Covering 2,168 sq km, Khao Yai incorporates one of the largest intact monsoon forests remaining in mainland Asia, which is why it was named a UNESCO World Heritage site. The mostly English-speaking staff at the visitor centre are very friendly and helpful.

Contact: +66 (0)44 426 000 Web: www.kirimaya.com Address: 1/3 Moo 6 Thanarat Road, Moo-si, Pakchong, Nakornratchasima 30130, Thailand

The area around Khao Yai rises from 400 m to 1,351 m above sea level where temperatures are considerably lower than Bangkok. It can be especially cool during the

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S iT 012 un r 2 o* A ng /M Tw ni EB or Ai F F M S in nEr Re iTor din ST ViS EE LA 10 A Fr T 1S win

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Apartments are available to purchase off-plan, both Freehold and Fractional ownership and due to be ready for occupation in MAY 2012.

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ABSOLUTE THAI mercedes slk 55 amg

New Benz on the Block SLK 55 AMG

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he new SLK 55 AMG is already the third generation of the exclusively dynamic roadster model made by AMG. It all started in 2001 with the SLK 32 AMG. Its AMG V6 supercharged engine with a displacement of 3.2 litres produced 260 kW (354 hp) – as such, the SLK 32 AMG was the most powerful vehicle in its class.

shut-off system combines ultimate performance with the lowest possible consumption levels. With a maximum output of 310 kW (422 hp), the SLK 55 AMG outperforms all of its direct competitors. High levels of driving dynamics are ensured thanks to the AMG sports suspension with Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brakes and 3-stage ESP, as well as the AMG high-performance braking system.

At the end of 2004 this was followed by the SLK 55 AMG. With its AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine, which developed 265 kW (360 hp), it also assumed the leading position in its segment. No other vehicle in this class offered a large-displacement eight-cylinder engine – and Mercedes AMG has remained consistently true to this philosophy with the successor model. The new SLK 55 AMG celebrated its market launch in January 2012.

No other vehicle in this class offered a large-displacement eight-cylinder engine – and Mercedes AMG has remained consistently true to this philosophy

The new Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG is the most powerful SLK of all time. Its newly developed AMG 5.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine with cylinder

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with the successor model.

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ADVERT

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ABSOLUTE THAI mercedes slk 55 amg

Forming part of the third-generation of the SLK, the new top-of-the range AMG model already demonstrates its individuality even at first glance: distinctive AMG light-alloy wheels, specific AMG bodystyling with AMG spoiler lip and two chrome-plated twin tailpipes at the rear complement the classic roadster proportions, while adding an athletic touch. The expressive design of the SLK 55 AMG is both eye-catching and unmistakable.

The SLK 55 AMG is the perfect embodiment of the new AMG brand claim of “Driving Performance”: in the compact high-performance roadster segment, there is nothing to compare to its combination of tangible driving dynamics, superior sportiness, unique high-technology and low fuel consumption.

The SLK 55 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

The world’s most fuel-efficient V8 engine combines the lowest consumption levels with the superior power delivery and the characteristic sound experience which only a large-displacement eight-cylinder engine can provide.

In line with its “AMG Performance 2015” strategy, with the new V8 engine Mercedes-AMG is meeting its promise to continue to reduce both the fuel

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The SLK 55 AMG is the perfect embodiment of the new AMG brand claim of “Driving Performance”

consumption and emissions of new models over the next few years – while reaching new heights with the central brand claim of “Driving Performance”.

immediately restarted and the car is able to move off quickly. A framed “ECO” symbol in the AMG main menu shows the driver that the ECO start/stop function is active.

The new naturally aspirated V8 engine is based on the AMG M157 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine presented in 2010, which powers the E 63 AMG, CLS 63 AMG, S 63 AMG and CL 63 AMG. Numerous design features are identical, such as the displacement, bore/stroke ratio, distance between cylinders, four-valve-per-cylinder design, ECO start/stop function and direct petrol injection technology. Distinguishing features versus the M157 include the cylinder shut-off system, new intake air ducting, new cylinder heads, the modified valve drive, an adapted oil supply system and an optimised crankcase.

A generator management system makes a further contribution to fuel economy: whenever the V8 engine is on the overrun or when braking, kinetic energy is used to charge the battery rather than being wasted as heat in the usual way.

For the first time AMG is using a sports exhaust system featuring an exhaust flap on each side. This technology resolves the conflict of aims between an emotional sound when driving in a sporty manner and a more discreet engine note in the partial load range. The main focus of the sound design was on achieving a perfect synthesis of perceptible dynamism and the long-distance comfort that is a hallmark of Mercedes.

The high-tech M152 powerpack enthralls with a combination of advanced technologies which is unequalled anywhere in the world.

Each of the two rear silencers has a flap which is variably activated on a logic-controlled basis, depending on the driver’s power requirement and the engine speed. The SLK 55 AMG complies with the current Euro 5 emission standard, as well as meeting all of the requirements of the US market.

The ECO start/stop function further contributes to the low fuel consumption levels. This system is standard equipment on the SLK 55 AMG, and active in the fuel economy transmission mode Controlled Efficiency “C”.

Once the driver comes to a halt, the V8 engine is automatically switched off. Once the brake pedal is released or the accelerator is depressed, the engine is

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Power is transferred to the rear wheels by means of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic

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ABSOLUTE THAI mercedes slk 55 amg

With its own unique shape, black diffuser insert with three fins as well as the two chrome-plated twin tailpipes, it gives a striking finishing touch to the vehicle.

transmission which features three transmission modes: Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S) and Manual (M).

The automatic double-declutching function when downshifting as well as the brief, precisely defined interruption of ignition and injection when shifting up under full load shorten shifting times and increase emotional appeal when adopting a sporty driving style.

The AMG sports suspension with Torque Vectoring Brakes and AMG Direct-Steer system provides both impressive lateral dynamics as well as agile handling, together with the comfort on long journeys which is characteristic of a Mercedes.

The vent grilles with chrome-plated fins in the front wings are not only reminiscent of the SLS AMG, but also evoke memories of the famous Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster from the 1950s. The “V8 AMG” lettering beneath the grilles points to the top-of-the-range eight-cylinder model from the SLK model series. AMGspecific, distinctively styled side sill panels continue the design of the front apron through to the new rear apron. With its own unique shape, black diffuser insert with three fins as well as the two chrome-plated twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system, it gives a striking finishing touch to the vehicle. The spoiler lip on the boot lid, painted in the vehicle body colour, reduces lift at the rear axle and thereby increases driving stability at high speeds.

Classic roadster proportions with typical AMG design characteristics as well as a hint of the SLS AMG – these are the striking visual highlights of the new SLK 55 AMG. The new AMG front apron has large air inlets and AMG-specific LEDdaytime driving lights. Inspired by the SLS AMG super sports car, the wide radiator grille features a large, centrally-positioned Mercedes star. In the case of the SLK 55 AMG, the slats in the radiator grille and the lower cross strut on the front apron are painted in a high-gloss black finish. Headlamps with darkened edging and darkened bicolour tail lamps also come as standard exclusively on the top-of-the-range V8 model. The Intelligent Light System (ILS) is also available as an optional extra.

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Looking for a highly dynamic driving style or comfortable cruising? The new SLK 55 AMG is able to offer both.

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Armani International Suits stands head and shoulder above the many other tailors on Koh Samui, offering the highest quality men’s and women’s fashions with a reputation built on years of experience.

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Tel/Fax: 077 422 387, Mobile: 08 1894 4657 Website: www.armanisuits.com, www.trendfashion.co.th E-mail: sales@armanisuits.com, info@trendfashion.co.th

ABSOLUTE THAI The coastal jaunt

The coastal jaunt

A cycle ride down Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard into Cambodia

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reedom, being intimate with nature and healthy exercise are all hallmarks of cycle touring. Combine that with the myriad of offerings from one of Thailand’s best known coastlines, a burgeoning travel scene in Cambodia, and you have the makings of a classic journey.

a country just peeking its head above the tourist parapet. As a consequence, the cycle tour gives you a different, more gentle and embracing travel perspective.

The ride starts out when you escape the dawn traffic of Bangkok’s congested streets on the eastbound road pedalling towards one of Thailand’s lesser-known beach destinations Bang Saen. As the bustling, noisy, snarling Bangkok traffic thins, the road becomes more appealing, more visceral, and you get to see the street level charms of the neighbourhoods through which you cycle.

Cycling is a wonderful way to see this region because of the intimate local interaction that cycling affords you which is often missing in most other forms of travel.

Cycle tours pitch you face to face with real life and challenges your perceptions of the traditional traveller mindset. A tour down Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard takes in the highlights of the Thai tourist scene, from the gaudy, over-exposed Pattaya with all its glitzy charm and the quieter shores of chilled Koh Chang, to the deserted beaches of Trat Province and the rural calm of Cambodia,

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Bang Saen has always been content in its offerings to play second fiddle to the larger resorts dotted further along the Eastern Seaboard. Bang Saen is a quiet little town packed with (beach) buckets of charm. The charm manifests itself in the boardwalk, a long clean path

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along the beach with a dazzling array of foods on offer, and the mountain towering over the town with a great seafood restaurant perched on top.

The journey continues back once again on the main highway linking Bangkok to the border of Cambodia at Koh Kong – Route 3. You pass the industrial heartland of the region, notable only for its heavy traffic.

After 54km of flat, open road you are tossed, rather unceremoniously, into the modern maelstrom that is Pattaya City. Pattaya, for the cyclist, is an unnerving experience of fast traffic, congested roads, a maze of interlocking streets and a sense that the cyclist might not belong here. Most cyclists don’t dwell here for long.

Rayong is the next destination, a short pedal along the coast. Rayong itself is a compact modern city, but there really are some little gems to be found with the quieter beaches in the surrounding area. A bicycle affords you the opportunity to explore the beaches at a slow, gentle pace.

Cycling is a wonderful way to see this region because of the intimate local interaction that cycling affords you which is often missing in most other forms of travel.

Further along the coast from Rayong, after a blistering ride through some of the Eastern Seaboard’s less salubrious sights, the road veers away from the coast at the junction town of Klang and heads in-land to the gem-mining centre of Thailand at Chantaburi.

Next up is Koh Chang, one of Thailand’s newest tourist jewels, developed in recent years in juxtaposition to the brash, overexploited islands of Samui and Phuket.

The road to the main beach of the island, White Sands, is actually one of the most challenging cycle rides in Thailand as the road has, quite literally, been constructed up the side of a mountain and you have to navigate a 15% gradient to get over it to the other side and the beach. This is difficult, even miserable, and at the end of a day that sees you cycling a total of 115km.

However, there is one bonus to the ride, as you cross the summit you get a glorious glimpse of the island stretched out to the south as you overlook the bay that hosts the town of White Sands Beach.

Shooting down the coastal road towards Trat is what a cyclist’s dreams are made of. The road itself is smooth, wide and empty of traffic. Couple this with dreamy views

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ABSOLUTE THAI The coastal jaunt

of the sea and sandy beaches, punctuated intermittently by swaying palms and overgrown mangroves, and the ride becomes a magical biking experience.

Beyond Trat the road becomes even more isolated as the Koh Kong border approaches and you get the feeling that you are an intrepid, lone adventurer caught in oasis of isolated beaches and mountains – which isn’t too bad of a place to be.

When you arrive at the Thai/Cambodian border at Koh Kong, the metaphorical tumbleweed brushes slowly across the dusty tarmac. This place defines sleepy and, as such, is a perfect crossing point for cyclists. There is a hint of curiosity from the border guards on either side, but that curiosity melts into polite smiles and a quick ushering through the formalities.

Cambodia is the place to cycle if you have the stamina to smile all day and bid hello to the entire population as YOU pedal slowly through the country.

On the Cambodian side the stark contrast between the developed Thailand and its poorer neighbour emerges; the roadside shacks look a little shabbier and the road has a dustier, grimier touch. However, the welcome is as, or even more, friendly. Shouts of hello ring out from drab wooden shacks set back from the roads, children run shouting, momentarily distracted from their play, to greet the strange barang (foreigner) whirring by on his bicycle. Yes, Cambodia is the place to cycle if you have the stamina to smile all day and bid hello to the entire population as you pedal slowly through the country.

The road from Koh Kong to Sihanoukville is a long haul, with little to break the journey. The road will take you through some of Cambodia’s hidden interior, a combination of heavily vegetated plains and forested mountains. This part of the country is both Cambodia’s blessing and curse because it is rich with minerals but it has been exploited by politicians and competing regimes for decades.

Riding into Sihanoukville takes you over one of the few mountainous roads in Cambodia – the town is set on the coast but surrounded by mountains. This can test the legs of a weary cyclist, but, as you clear the peak of the last hill, the views over the beaches that surround the town make up for the tiredness.

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Journeys on bicycles are different, they allow you to take in the pace of life, they allow you to become more intimate with your surroundings and you are able to interact, something that is often missing from most modern travel experience.

hammock to break the journey if your cycling legs can’t carry you the full distance.

Sihanoukville is a strange town to visit with 5 distinct and divided parts that combine to make up one large sprawling, but sleepy, metropolis. Each part has its own distinct vibe, from the backpacker chic to the bustling upmarket shopping centre, which need consideration before plumping for accommodation. Having a bicycle is a perfect way to see the town, with perhaps 10km of cycling between the different parts.

Arriving in the vortex of Phnom Penh is a great cycling pleasure; you get sucked into the crowds of cars, motorcycles and rickshaws and eventually, through no real cycling effort on your behalf, get spat out in the French Quarter, a rather calm, chic advertisement for Cambodian tourist growth. The area has everything, from gourmet restaurants and luxury hotels, to noodle shops and back street hostels. Pick a hostelry of your choice. This is finally the end of the cycling road.

Leaving the quiet beachy charms of Sihanoukville behind, there is a tough day on the bicycle ahead for the flat-out burn to Phnom Penh. There is 220km of flat but empty cycling that lay between the coast and the capital. This is perhaps the most challenging day’s ride for the entire trip, due to the distance involved. There are scant few opportunities for rest and recuperations along the road, and it is advisable to take a tent or a

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Journeys on bicycles are different, they allow you to take in the pace of life, they allow you to become more intimate with your surroundings and you are able to interact, something that is often missing from most modern travel experience.

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ABSOLUTE THAI Barracuda Restaurant

Affordable yet Gourmet Dining out at Koh Samui’s Barracuda Restaurant

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mall, chic yet very cutting-edge, Barracuda Restaurant stands out for culinary excellence combined with great prices. A European-style restaurant where Mediterranean-style dishes have been effortlessly nuanced with Thai tastes, it’s an excellent choice for dinner.

tables, Barracuda Restaurant is always able to offer a personalized service that can often be quite hard to find these days. The chef’s happy to prepare extra dishes that aren’t on the menu, by the way; vegetarian food is no problem and the restaurant is happy to make dishes for children.

When you arrive you’re given a warm welcome by the staff who are friendly and truly professional – they quickly appear when you need them but don’t hover.

The atmosphere is laid-back and it’s hard not to relax here. Everything is spotlessly clean and the restaurant has a neat, uncluttered feel to it.

Barracuda Restaurant is located right in the heart of Maenam, an area not really noted for its fine dining.

Although it’s just a few hundred metres from the sea, there’s no view to speak of: this is therefore one of those places that just has to serve great food in order to keep its doors open.

A traditional Thai wooden fishing boat is mounted on the wall, recalling the sea-faring origins of Koh Samui.

On each table a candle burns in a glass container.

Lighting is low enough to be intimate and with just nine

The menu is just a page long and focuses on mainly seafood, but you’ll also find an excellent selection of meat-based dishes. While you peruse the menu, a generous amount of baguette arrives with delicious

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tomato confit and virgin olive oil which will wet your appetite. Refills are automatic, if wanted.

Most of the food at Barracuda blends East and West and has all been created by owner-manager Ferdinand Dienst. He’s put together a menu that’s a lot more imaginative than most. The results are wonderfully mouth watering, with Ferdinand offering high quality food at extremely reasonable prices and thereby beating some of the more established names on the island. Quantity doesn’t suffer either; this is definitely not one of those places where you’ll go away hungry. A good selection of wines accompanies the dishes too with something to suit every pocket. Naturally, there’s also a range of cocktails and other drinks, both alcoholic and soft.

Starters include homemade tortellini of lobster and salmon with a tom yam velouté, a salmon tartare with a Thai twist or the delicious salad of asparagus with a creamy black olive dressing.

For mains, fish lovers may want to try jasmine-tea-crusted tuna steak bedded on roasted pineapple and Thai asparagus in wasabi sauce or barracuda fillet in wild mushroom paste, wrapped in Serrano ham on sautéed vegetables. If you’re more tempted by meat, then opt for lamb loin with carrot purée, Thai asparagus with roasted herb sauce or a filet mignon with wild mushrooms on roasted asparagus and truffle oil pomme purée.

Most of the food at Barracuda blends

Desserts are sumptuous: hot chocolate lava on raspberry coulis, or white chocolate and carrot fondant on a dark chocolate sauce – just to mention a couple of examples.

East and West and has all been created by owner-manager Ferdinand Dienst.

He’s put together a menu that’s a lot

Not surprisingly, Trip Advisor gave the restaurant a Certificate of Excellence this year. Barracuda is well worth a visit and you’ll probably feel like returning for more of the sumptuous food here.

more imaginative than most.

Barracuda Restaurant At weekends and in high season it’s strongly recommended to make a reservation.

Please phone: 077 921 663 / Mobile: 086 946 89 59.

Open every day except Monday.

Location: On the ring road, at Maenam traffic lights.

Turn right if coming from Nathon or left if coming from Chaweng. The restaurant is just 20 metres away.

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ABSOLUTE THAI Promotions

Celebrate romance throughout February 2012 at Le Méridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa

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elive those special moments where it was simply just the 2 in absolute romance. Le Méridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa invites romantics and lovers alike to celebrate St Valentines for the entire month of February (not just one day) with the exclusive “Romance Escape Package” by the Gulf of Thailand.

to experience a new perspective with a focus on contemporary art and cuisine.

The resort is an idyllic enclave on exclusive Lamai Beach – on the eastern side of the island close to the airport and island attractions. Inspired by Koh Samui’s timeless beauty and diverse cultural influences, Le Méridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa features an intimate selection of 77 refined suites and villas designed with fengshui principles in mind. For guests seeking retreat, Le Méridien Koh Samui offers a world-class luxury spa with private suites and a holistic mix of ancient and modern treatments. And a main focal point of the resort is the 224-meter floating ocean pier over the Gulf of Thailand, a unique and inspired venue for private dinners, celebratory cocktail parties, and intimate receptions.

Enter the Resort through the Yin Yang Porte Cohere, leaving the worries behind and stay with a neutral feeling and open mind. Discover an enchanting romance escape with nightly accommodation in the room type of your choice, 60-minutes of Thai signature massage in a couples rooms at Le SPA, eye-opening breakfast for 2 daily and a contemporary romantic east and west blended set dinner at the ocean front restaurant.

For a 2 night stay, rates start from THB 8,500+++ for per night for stays from 01 February to 29 February 2012 with DOUBLE SPG POINTS for all February 2012 stays.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call +66 (0) 77 960 888 email lemeridien.kohsamui@lemeridien.com or discover more offers at www.lemeridien.com/kohsamui

Le Méridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa goes beyond the traditional five-star hotel experience and invites guests to discover more than just a new destination –

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ABSOLUTE THAI news

The Ultimate Valentines Experience Hot Air Ballooning over a UNESCO World Heritage Rainforest, Mountains and Wineries in Khao Yai (Valid from 27 January – 29 February)

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et in 800 acres of lush greenery bordering a UNESCO World Heritage National Park, rainforest and majestic mountain range in Khao Yai, Thailand, two unique 64 room resorts, Kirimaya and Muthi Maya, are imbedded in a sanctuary of nature, enjoying cool, crisp, clean mountain air year round.

Khao Yai is 2 hours by road, north-east of Bangkok.

• A 45-60 minute hot air balloon flight (actual time is dependent on conditions on the day) • Choice of a 90 minute spa treatment or set dinner for two with a choice of Thai or Western menu (food only) • Free wi-fi access (you can share pix with your family and friends on Facebook) Rates start from Baht 28,500 (USD 950) and are subject to applicable service charge and Government taxes. The package is valid from 27 January to 29 February, 2012.

Kirimaya – a stunning 64 room resort with a choice of luxurious spacious accommodation including four tented villas, as well as variety of rooms and suites with private terraces, spacious finely appointed interiors and majestic views of the Khao Yai National Park mountain range.

Additional nights accommodation with a 10% discount off the hotel’s Hot Deal rate of Baht 5,015/USD 169, plus applicable service charge and Government taxes.

Muthi Maya – an exquisite resort with 64 luxurious Forest Pool Villas (164 square meters) each with a 3 x 7 meter pool, large patio, and garden pavilion.

The resorts include an 18 hole, par 72 championship golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus, and dedicated conference facilities.

Reservations Reservations can be made through the hotel’s reservations offices direct as follows:

The Ultimate Valentines Day Hot Air Ballooning Experience for two includes: • Two nights luxurious accommodation in Kirimaya or Muthi Maya as you prefer

Bangkok T: +66 (0) 2257 0455-7 F: +66 (0) 2257 0459 E: reservation@kirimaya.com

• Sumptuous breakfast following your balloon ride, with sparkling wine, served in a private cabana in the open air amphitheatre overlooking the lush landscape)

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Khao Yai T: +66 4442 6000 F: +66 4492 9888 W: kirimaya.com

ABSOLUTE THAI news

Annual “Six of the Best” Phuket’s Top Chefs Cook for Charity

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ix top chefs from some of Phuket’s premier luxury resorts and restaurants are joining forces for the annual “Six of the Best” charity dinner at ‘Millionaire’s Mile’ hideaway Paresa Resort in aid of underprivileged women and girls.

Goods made by the women are sold at Paresa’s boutique as well as some of the other top resorts in Phuket.

“The ‘Six of the Best’ fundraiser was an extremely well supported and successful event in its inaugural year, last year. Teaming up with the talented line-up of the island’s top chefs each year, we hope to continue to be able to support this important charity”, emphasized Scot Toon the resorts General Manager.

The gastronomic fundraiser is on March 31 at the exclusive resort in Kamala, themed ‘Six of the Best’, the prestigious event showcases the culinary talents of six of Phuket’s most acclaimed chefs – each contributing one course to the six-course gala unique dining experience matched with fine wine.

The Good Shepherd Sisters is a non- denominational Thai registered charity helping all those in need. (www.goodshepherdbangkok.com)

The resorts participating in the 2012 event are Paresa Resort, Banyan Tree Phuket, Dusit Thani Laguna, Amanpuri, Trisara and Joes Downstairs restaurant.

There are seven charity organizations

The sumptuous dining event starts with canapés on the manicured lawn of the luxury clifftop retreat overlooking the Andaman Sea. Dinner is at Paresa’s celebrated Diavolo restaurant, renowned for its calendar of gourmet events and with a spectacular 270 degree ocean view.

under “The Good Shepherd Sisters” in both Phuket and around Thailand.

They help women and children who have been abused, are caught up in

The unique teaming of Phuket’s chefs is being supported by their suppliers who will donate all the menu ingredients and wine – ensuring all proceeds go to “The Good Shepherd Sisters” charity. “Without the generous support of all the resorts participating and all our suppliers this event would not be possible”, explained Ryan Arboleda, Paresa Executive Chef.

human trafficking or the sex industry.

There are seven charity organizations under “The Good Shepherd Sisters” in both Phuket and around Thailand. They help women and children who have been abused, are caught up in human trafficking or the sex industry, are poor or suffering from HIV. They are given shelter, counselling and the opportunity to re-educate themselves and thus earn a decent living.

49 Moo 6, Layi-Nakalay Road Kamala Phuket 83150 Thailand T: +66 76 302000 F: +66 76 302001 E: rsvn@paresaresorts.com info@paresaresorts.com

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Sukosol Group Supports Thai Flood Victims

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he Sukosol Group has joined hands with the Thai Red Cross Society and UNICEF to provide emergency help and support for flood victims in Thailand through the donation of Baht 1,411,000 in much-needed funds.

dengue; “Child Friendly Spaces” at evacuation centres for recreation and psychosocial activities; “School in a Box” kits for learning in temporary settings while schools are repaired and refurbished.

The Sukosol Group’s efforts to raise funds and awareness about the recent catastrophic flooding have also included the selling of a new “Sukosol family” collaborative CD, entitled L-O-V-E. Currently available at the group’s Bangkok and Pattaya hotels it can be purchased on a donation basis with all proceeds going to the Red Cross Society’s Flood Relief Fund.

The money was given to the Thai Red Cross Society’s Relief Communities Help Bureau to provide “Assistance to individuals and families affected by disaster, enabling them to resume their normal daily activities independently as soon as possible. Mobile hospitals take care of physical and emotional rehabilitation needs among disaster victims. Other services include vocational training, family member search and community morale improvement.”

The group’s Bangkok property, the Siam City Hotel, has also undertaken a slew of initiatives to help its staff affected by the floods, such as providing free on-site accommodation, parking and food. Not to mention that 67 employees indentified as being in “extreme need” were donated Baht 4,000 towards repairing their home and Baht 70,000 was used to buy them paint, brushes, cleaning materials, etc. Staff were also eligible for a lone initiative program enabling them to borrow up to Baht 50,000 at a 2% interest rate over two years.

Similarly, as the worst flooding in more than 50 years continues to take a terrible human toll, UNICEF is rushing essential humanitarian assistance to affected children and their families. They are undertaking to provide the following services and provisions: bottles of chlorine drops to purify drinking water; bottles of liquid soaps to help prevent the spread of communicable diseases; insecticide-treated mosquito nets to protect against

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ABSOLUTE THAI Phil Tufnell returns to Thailand

Cricket: England vs Phuket

as Phil Tufnell returns to Thailand

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hil Tufnell, former England Cricket Captain and sporting personality celebrated the New Year, and his return to Thailand, with a relaxed game of beach cricket against a local Phuket Cricket League Team and a stunning Thai island backdrop – directly outside his beachfront holiday villa.

The event raised €1,325 for Absolute’s charity of choice, the Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation, supporting children effected in the Thailand Tsunami disaster.

In a country where football, Muay Thai, tennis and golf have high visibility, it may be surprising to note that cricket has been played recreationally in Thailand since 1890. And Phuket recently welcomed its first purposebuilt all-weather cricket pitch, which will host the famous Marylebone Cricket Club to play the first official match in February 2012.

Tufnell and family enjoyed warm Thai hospitality, five minutes from the island of Phuket, at the luxury all-villa resort The Village Coconut Island. Taking time out not only to challenge The Village Coconut Island League Team but to host a charity dinner as Ambassador of the Absolute World Group, Thailand’s leading and multi award winning vacation ownership brand, attended by local dignitaries, press and cricket enthusiasts.

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Tufnell and family were guests of the Absolute World Group who are the premier sales and marketing agent for the second phase of development at The Village

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Phuket recently welcomed its first purpose-built all-weather cricket pitch, which will host the famous Marylebone Cricket Club to play the first official match in February 2012.

Coconut Island, offering both whole and shared ownership of a new phase of two bedroom private pool villas and Jacuzzi suites, which will encompass a total of 236 villas.

members, a growing collection of self and partner developed resorts & hotels and their pioneering Fractional Ownership and Resale division.

The Absolute World Group is committed to delivering heavenly resort destinations from conception to completion and beyond, with the added value of its dedicated turnkey resort management service.

Amongst it’s growing accolades, The Village Coconut Island recently gained HOT LIST 7 status within this year’s South East Asia’s Top 20 Resort Properties in Property Report Asia, enjoying a top position in this year’s Hot List, amongst some of the regions other most sought after resorts: Six Senses, Karma Kandara, W Samui Residences, Malaiwana, Banyan Tree Residences and Nexus Residences.

About The Village Coconut Island The Village Coconut Island is a development opportunity originally identified by British born entrepreneur Chris Gordon who had established an international reputation after creating the world’s most successful water sports Club and Yacht Charter Holiday Company, Sunsail.

Chris Gordon has established a corporate framework within which to develop The Village Coconut Island as a unique integrated island resort.

About the Absolute World Group Founded in 1998, the Absolute World Group of companies has positioned its workforce tactically across China, Europe, Hong Kong, Russia and Thailand, offering a seamless range of services within the world of Resorts and Hotels inclusive of a highly successful Destination Club, boasting thousands of

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Book now at www.mycoconutisland.com

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