scarlett Johansson the blONde black WidOW FREE O c t O b e r / N O v e m b e r 2 0 11
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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.
absolute thai iPad app is a user-friendly interactive magazine which contains extra content not found in our printed magazine, so now there are even more stunning photos, articles and even videos!
ABSOLUTE THAI COntEnt
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Contents imagE: CinEmaFEstival / shUttErstOCk.COm
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W h at ’ s O n Upcoming Events in thailand
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h E a lt h & W E l l- b E i n g atmanjai
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CO v E r F E at U r E scarlett Johansson
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hard timE in the big tiger
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t r av E l – n E Ck E r i s l a n d a taste of Paradise
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Ch a O P h r aya b O at Cr U i s E tranquilly gliding up the Chao Phraya
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F i r E F ly a i r l i n E s don’t break that budget
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W ElCO m E tO a bs O lU t E t h a i l i F E s t y l E m ag a Z i n E O C t O b E r / n O v E m b E r 2 011
Can you feel the electricity and excitement in the air? summer is slowly fading away, and beautifully fresh weather is coming our way. For the next four to five months, thailand comes alive with festivals, parties and many other reasons for getting together with loved ones (or even strangers) and enjoying one of the finest and friendliest countries in the world. in fact, in some parts of thailand, no excuse at all is needed to party! Check out the ‘What’s On’ section for a calendar of events. Oh, and if you are thinking of trying out any illicit substances, just read the article ‘hard time in the big tiger’ and you will probably change your mind. i am sure most of you have seen scarlet Johansson on film already, but if you haven’t, she will take your breath away when she enters a scene. Woody allen knows talent, and he plucked a gem with scarJo. With her beauty and amazing acting she will be around to entertain us for decades.
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i haven’t bought a car in years because a motorbike suits me fine in thailand, but after reading the audi a6 story, it might be time to ask for a raise. the story of how richard branson, at the young age of 28, bought and outfitted his own island, necker island, is truly remarkable. Enjoy this issue!
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 OctOber - NOvember 2011
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.
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Naga Fireballs
s the full moon crests the horizon, ruby orbs of light begin to rise out of the mekong river. as if by magic, they float silently into the air and then evaporate in the inky blackness, a phenomenon that awes and delights observers privileged to have seen them.
at the Wat thai temple city Pillar shrine Pon Pisai district in Nong khai October 11 - 12, 2011
For centuries, their existence was a closely-held secret among villagers living near the northeastern town of Nong khai. then, the miraculous event was discovered by outsiders who now flock to the riverbanks each October full moon night in enormous numbers – 400,000, at last count. the silence of the fireballs’ ascent is emblematic of the mystery of their origins beneath the murky mekong. villagers claim that they are created by nak, mythical serpents as central to thai belief and as enigmatic as the fireballs. between 6 and 9 p.m. on the full moon night of the eleventh lunar month (October), the final night of buddhist lent, smokeless, scentless, soundless fireballs begin to rise from the deepest, lao side of the mekong. as many as 19 ruby globes at a time ascend to heights of 30 to 300 meters for three to eight seconds each, and then simply vanish. in some years there are only a few; in 1999, nearly 3,500 fireballs were counted. they can be seen from ponds and a dozen riverbank villages but are most numerous near Phon Phisai. Contact information: tourism authority of thailand, Udon thani Office areas of responsibility: Udon thani, Nong khai tel: +66 (0) 4232 5406-7 Fax: +66 (0) 4232 5408 e-mail: tatudon@tat.or.th
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chON bUri bUFFalO races
the sakhON NakhON Wax castle PrOcessiON & rOyal trOPhy lONg-bOat races
city hall, chon buri October 11 - 12, 2011
Wat Phra that choeng chum temple, sakon Nakhon October 8 - 12, 2011
image: thOr JOrgeN UdvaNg / shUtterstOck.cOm
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o mark the end of buddhist lent or ‘Ok Pansa’, communities in Northeastern thailand or ‘i-san’ stage an annual celebration consisting of a grand procession of meticulously-carved wax castles, long-boat races and festive celebrations. On the final day of the festival, which falls on the end of the buddhist lent, local residents make a trip to the temples to make merit.
he water buffalo has always played a significant role in agriculture in thailand.
in this yearly event, the creatures are seen in more unusual and entertaining ways than just ploughing fields. they take part in buffalo races and contests pitting buffalo against man. beauty pageants and various other fun-filled activities are part of the attractions presented as well.
this ancient folk tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. Over the centuries, the tradition has evolved. Originally, ornate wax trees carved out of poles of beeswax were presented to temples along with other merit-making ritual offerings. contemporary offerings consist of elaborate designs and sophisticated shapes and forms. beeswax is molded into miniature buddhist temples and shrines or wax castles.
Contact information: tourism authority of thailand, Pattaya Office tel: +66 (0) 3842 3990 (0) 3842 7667 (0) 3842 8750 Fax: +66 (0) 3842 9113 e-mail: tatchon@tat.or.th
Contact information: tourism authority of thailand, Nakhon Phanom Office tel: +66 (0) 4251 3490-1 Fax: +66 (0) 4251 3492 e-mail: tatphnom@tat.or.th
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Absolute thAi What’s ON
lOi krathONg Festival OF lights in bangkok: November 1 - 30, 2011 Nationwide: November 5 - 13, 2011
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s the full moon of the twelfth lunar month (usually in mid-November) lights up the night sky, throughout the thai kingdom, hundreds of thousands of ornately-decorated krathong or traditional banana leaf floats are set adrift in rivers and waterways in a spell-binding ritual called “loi krathong” – the ‘festival of lights”. this is one of the kingdom’s oldest and best-preserved traditions. the loi krathong tradition we know of today has evolved from the royal rituals of the early rattanakosin period in which several types of lanterns were set afloat in the chao Phraya river and its waterways.
10 image: Olegd / shUtterstOck.cOm
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river kWai bridge Week kanchanaburi November – december 2011
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ach year in late November to early december, the world famous river kwai bridge, built by allied prisoners-of-war during World War ii, becomes the focal point of celebrations.
light and sound presentation re-enacting the bridge’s World War ii legacy. Contact information: tourism authority of thailand, kanchanaburi Office tel: +66 (0) 3451 1200, (0) 3451 2500 Fax: +66 (0) 3451 1200 e-mail: tatkan@tat.or.th
event highlights include historical and archaeological exhibits, a carnival, folk and cultural performances, rides on World War ii vintage trains, and a spectacular
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THE VILLAGE COCONUT ISLAND PHUKET, THAILAND
YOUR OWN PIECE OF PARADISE, YEAR AFTER YEAR AFFORDABLE RESIDENCES Youﾃ夫 e found your ideal tropical escape, so make it your own with a second home at The Village Coconut Island. Your stay in Phuket is not complete without a visit to this award wining resort.
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Enjoy two nights accommodation for the price of one whilst experiencing the range of shared and whole ownership villas and suites now available. To book, please contact a dedicated member of the Absolute Real Estate team on +66 (0) 76 346 282 or enquire online at mycoconutisland.com
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THE INVESTMENT THE ACTIVITIES THE SERVICE
Absolute thAi atmaNJai
atmanjai detOx yOga WellNess
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he word detox has become synonymous with dozens of different types of treatments for removing unhealthy substances from a person’s body. there are many ways to remove these toxins, and therapies have been developed for both general and more specific health improvement.
detox programs are now available for general health, de-stressing, addressing diabetes, heart disease, cancers, and almost any other condition that you can think of. interestingly, most people i have spoken to have very strong opinions on detox programs. i asked a number of friends and associates their thoughts, and it seems that people who have undertaken a detox program are enthusiastic and encouraging supporters of the process, while those who have not done a program are sceptical and cynical. it was surprising, or maybe not, to note that the most cynical of those people i spoke with about detox programs also appeared the unhealthiest.
detOx PrOgrams are NOW available FOr geNeral health, de-stressiNg, addressiNg diabetes, heart disease, caNcers, aNd almOst aNy Other cONditiON that yOU caN thiNk OF.
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We all know someone who has attempted to improve their health, indeed we may have tried this ourselves. Whether by joining the gym, changing diet, reducing consumption of cigarettes or alcohol, sadly the reality is that the vast majority of people fail in these efforts. this is something that atmanjai is well aware of and they go to great lengths to ensure that as part of their programs, clients are educated and equipped with knowledge, attitude and resources to give themselves the best chance of succeeding in maintaining a healthier lifestyle. although you can feel totally committed when you say you want to change your diet or lifestyle, everyone knows that old habits die hard and starting new, healthy habits can be even harder. that’s why professionally designed and managed detox programs like those available at atmanjai are so powerful. because they not only give you an excellent kickstart by purging the body of excess weight and toxins, they also show you in practical terms how to start and maintain an effective improved way of living that does not feel like you are missing out on fun and your favourite foods and drinks. environment contributes to feeling comfortable and safe, when you feel this way you are more likely to relax and participate fully in the detox. atmanjai, located in the south of Phuket on a beautiful beach side location, is perfectly suited to this purpose, and within minutes of arriving you will already find yourself being relaxed and soothed by the sea breeze and beautiful coastal vistas.
it Was sUrPrisiNg, Or maybe NOt, tO NOte that the mOst cyNical OF thOse PeOPle i sPOke With abOUt detOx PrOgrams alsO
Understanding what body detox is and what it does for your body makes the experience fun, easy and enjoyable. if you are wondering on how to detox your body, there are so many types of detox methods and recipes available that at first the large amount of information can seem overwhelming. that’s where a venue like atmanjai is so useful, as they can professionally guide you to select the services to suit your needs or to target a specific part of your body that needs care.
aPPeared the UNhealthiest.
a detox is designed to eliminate toxins from your body leaving you feeling energized and healthy. toxins build up so fast that a detox program should be followed by a change in lifestyle to ensure that toxins don’t build up so quickly in your body again.
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Absolute thAi atmaNJai
atmaNJai OFFers Five diFFereNt cOre PrOgrams Which are available FOr PeriOds OF betWeeN 3 tO 28 days, iNclUdiNg their JUst laUNched – “iNsUliN Free PrOgram”, gUaraNteed tO relieve tyPe 2 diabetics FrOm the Need tO take iNsUliN.
Why Visit Atmanjai if i can do this at home?
and with this information, a personalized and structured program is prepared.
the purpose of this article is not to ‘wow’ you with atmanjai’s beautiful beach side location, gorgeous rooms, excellent staff, etc. it is to educate the reader of atmanjai’s superior products, services and knowledge of how to appropriately and safely guide clients through a detox program. atmanjai offers five different core programs which are available for periods of between 3 to 28 days, including their just launched – “insulin Free Program”, guaranteed to relieve type 2 diabetics from the need to take insulin. as well they custom design programs to individual requirements. each client is individually monitored to ensure that only the most appropriate sessions and services are being provided. every atmanjai client completes a comprehensive questionnaire and interview to define your personal goals from the program, (e.g., overcome illness, lose weight, stop smoking, etc.),
in addition to the core program inclusions, atmanjai offers a broad range of elective sessions for their guests. as centre director michael massey explains, “not all clients are open to all the various services we have available, so to ensure that guests are entirely comfortable with their program and happy to participate fully – we make a large number of options available to them”. For a centre that only accepts a maximum of 18 clients at any time, the list is an impressive confirmation of how committed atmanjai is to ensure great outcomes for their guests. Prior to commencing a detox program it is important to prepare yourself to achieve maximum results as comfortably as you possibly can. “if you are going to invest time, energy and money to undertake a program
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with us, then it makes sense to maximize the potential results by preparing your body as best as possible” says michael massey. the Pre-cleanse diet is designed to alkalyse your body, that is, to move the ph balance of your body chemistry from acid to alkaline before you arrive for your program. michael massey explains, “When your body begins to detoxify on one of our potent programs, it will do so rapidly and your body may struggle to eliminate toxins as quickly as they are being released from where they are stored in your body. this can result in an increase in the acid level of your body, which can manifest in feelings of discomfort, headaches, nausea and even vomiting – generally making you wish that you had done the Pre-cleanse diet! the Pre-cleanse diet is very simple. the minimum time for this is one week. the longer you Pre-cleanse, the better and deeper your results from your program. the diet is simply to minimize intake of the following items for at least 7 days, and completely avoid them for the 3 days prior to arrival at atmanjai: alcohol, bakery items, candy/cakes/sweets, dairy products, meats, salt, sugar and, tobacco and recreational drugs.
atmaNJai has aN excelleNt rePUtatiON, cONFirmed by a sigNiFicaNt iNcrease iN clieNt NUmbers aNd retUrNiNg clieNts
your intake during this time should ideally consist only of: raw fruit, raw or lightly steamed vegetables, warm water, fresh raw juice of fruit or vegetables. apple juice is particularly good to take at this time.
WhO are seekiNg tO relax, UNWiNd aNd re-cOmmit tO a healthier mOre eNJOyable Way OF liFe.
atmanjai has an excellent reputation, confirmed by a significant increase in client numbers and returning clients who are seeking to relax, unwind and re-commit to a healthier more enjoyable way of life. if you are unable to visit for a program, then you will be pleased that there is an alternative. atmanjai director michael massey’s publication on how to simply and easily enjoy better health, “tools to be Well Now” is available as an e-book.
For details on how to get your copy of the e-book or for more details about these highly effective programs, visit the website www.atmanjai.com or make an enquiry via email at bookings@atmanjai.com.
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Turning your dreams into reality at Impiana Resort, Chaweng Noi, Koh Samui. Located on one of the most beautiful paradise shores in the world, is Chaweng Noi’s idyllic resort. An unspoiled beach-front setting, overlooking lush tropical gardens, endless turquoise lagoon, and luminous white sands, it pampers you with the ideal ambience of tranquility and romance. And not to forget, we offer you the very best location to suit all tastes. Whether you want to get away from it all and relax or shop till you drop!
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PrOUdly rePreseNtiNg the VillAGe CoCoNut islANd aNd Absolute tWiN sANds ResoRt & spA • as an option for the buyer who prefers not to invest in outright ownership we are able to offer a more customized method via our award winning fractional ownership of quarter shares and 1/10 shares. • We can offer Foreign Freehold ownership from under 15m thb, with guaranteed rental returns. • Units are turn key ready or under construction with completion anticipated within 12 months. • exclusive ocean and beach front Pool villas in Foreign Ownership are also available from only 18m thb. • additionally we have availability in locations throughout asia, especially our latest development, the beach samui.
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
image: ciNemaFestival / shUtterstOck.cOm
the blONde black WidOW
scarlett Johansson W O r d s : tim Knight 21
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ABSOLUTE THAI COVER FEATURE
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carlett Johansson was born on November 22, 1984 in NY, NY. At only 26 (unless you are reading this after November 22), she has been in 30 movies with some big ones on the horizon. Not only that, but she somehow has found time to cut two record albums. Also, for laziness’ sake, the media now refers to her as ScarJo. Typing her full name out must be too much work for journalists and bloggers. Johansson made her film debut in the 1994 film North and was later nominated for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead for her performance in 1996’s Manny & Lo. Johansson rose to fame with
During the filming of Match Point, director Woody Allen described Johansson as “sexually overwhelming,” saying that he found it, “very hard to be extra witty around a sexually overwhelming, beautiful young woman who is wittier than you are.” her roles in 1998’s The Horse Whisperer and 2001’s Ghost World. She transitioned to adult roles with her performances in Girl with a Pearl Earring and Sofia Coppola’s Lost in Translation, for which she won a BAFTA Award, and both films earned her Golden Globe Award nominations in 2003. A role in A Love Song for Bobby Long earned her a third Golden Globe for Best Actress nomination, and she was still only 19 years old. Following an appearance in The Island, Johansson garnered a fourth Golden Globe nomination, for Best Supporting Actress, for her role in Woody Allen’s Match Point. She also starred in other Allen movies, such as Scoop, with Hugh Jackman and Allen, and Vicky Cristina Barcelona. Scarlett Johansson also appeared in The Prestige and the summer blockbuster Iron Man 2 in the role ‘Black Widow’ which she will revive in next years action move The Avengers. A role in the 2010s Broadway revival of Arthur Miller’s A View From the Bridge gave her some of her best reviews for her acting, and she received a Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Play. In 2007, she appeared as the leading lady in Justin Timberlake’s music video, for What Goes Around... Comes Around, which was nominated in August 2007
IMAGE: DFree / Shutterstock.com
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for video of the year at the MTV Video Music Awards. On May 20, 2008, Johansson debuted as a vocalist on her first album, Anywhere I Lay My Head, which comprises mostly cover versions of Tom Waits songs. Reviews of the album were mixed, or average. Spin magazine commented, “There’s nothing particularly compelling about Scarlett Johansson’s singing.” Conversely, some critics found it to be “surprisingly alluring”, “a bravely eccentric selection,” and “a brilliant album” with “ghostly magic.” The album was named the “23rd best album of 2008” by NME and peaked at No.1 on the Billboard Top Heatseekers chart and No.126 on the Billboard 200 chart. Her second album, Break Up, was released in September 2009. In 2010, Steel Train released the album Terrible Thrills Vol.1, which includes their favourite female artists singing songs from their self-titled album. Johansson is the first artist on the album, singing Bullet. In 2011, Johansson sang One Whole Hour for the soundtrack of the documentary film Wretches And Jabberers. Johansson has appeared in advertising campaigns for Calvin Klein, L’Oréal, Louis Vuitton and has been the face of Spanish brand Mango since 2009. After appearing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute Gala with Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, Johansson was announced as the face of the new Dolce & Gabbana make-up collection in early 2009. She is also the new face for the “way too expensive” Möet Chandon champagne. In fact, she was just at a Möet Chandon event on September 5th in Shanghai. Earlier this year, a United States Marine invited her to join him at a formal Marine ball, but Johansson had other arraignments so she instead sent the Marine a case of the fine liquor.
IMAGE: cinemafestival / Shutterstock.com
Johansson is considered a “peerless sex symbol” by the UK’s Channel 4, and she regularly appears at the top of lists of the sexiest women in the world. Johansson appeared on the cover of the March 2006 issue of Vanity Fair in the nude alongside actress Keira Knightley and fashion designer Tom Ford. In February 2007, she was named the “Sexiest Celebrity” of the year by Playboy. During the filming of Match Point, director Woody Allen described Johansson as “sexually overwhelming,” saying that he found it “very hard to be extra witty around a sexually overwhelming, beautiful
IMAGE: cinemafestival / Shutterstock.com
SCARLETT Johansson is considered a “peerless sex symbol” by the UK’s Channel 4, and she regularly appears at the top of lists of the sexiest women in the world.
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ABSOLUTE THAI COVER FEATURE
young woman who is wittier than you are.” In 2010, GQ magazine named Johansson its “Babe of The Year.” Johansson rarely discusses her personal life with the press, saying, “It’s nice to have everybody not know your business.” In a 2006 interview, Johansson expressed a concern about the potential conflict between the nature of human beings and the concept of monogamy. However, she has stated “contrary to popular belief ... I am not promiscuous” and that she works “really hard” when she’s in a relationship “to make it work in a monogamous way.” She gets tested for HIV twice a year and has said, “It’s part of being a decent human and it is just disgusting behaviour when people don’t. It’s so irresponsible.”
IMAGE: cinemafestival / Shutterstock.com
She started dating Canadian actor Ryan Reynolds in 2007, and on May 5, 2008, it was reported that the two were engaged. On September 27, 2008, Johansson and Reynolds were married at a quiet ceremony near Tofino, British Columbia. They purchased a $2.8 million
SCARLETT Johansson gets tested for HIV twice a year and has said, “It’s part of being a decent human and it is just disgusting behaviour when people don’t. It’s so irresponsible.” home together near Los Angeles, California. However, as most Hollywood marriages go, on December 14, 2010, Reynolds and Johansson announced that they had separated, saying, “After long and careful consideration on both our parts, we’ve decided to end our marriage. We entered our relationship with love and it’s with love and kindness we leave it.” Reynolds filed for divorce on December 23, 2010 in Los Angeles, citing irreconcilable differences. Johansson filed her divorce response simultaneously. The divorce was finalized on July 1, 2011. As the couple did not have a prenuptial agreement, all property and earnings accumulated during the marriage were split evenly. Reynolds in now reportedly dating Sandra Bullock, and Johansson has been linked to Sean Penn (who is 50 years old and almost double her age). Johansson denies there was ever any romance with Penn though.
IMAGE: Helga Esteb / Shutterstock.com
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ABSOLUTE THAI COVER FEATURE
IMAGE: Helga Esteb / Shutterstock.com
In March 2008, a UK-based bidder paid £20,000 on an eBay auction to benefit Oxfam, winning a hair and makeup treatment, a pair of tickets and a chauffeured trip to accompany Johansson on a 20 minute date to the world premiere of He’s Just Not That Into You’. £20,000 on an eBay auction to benefit Oxfam, winning a hair and makeup treatment, a pair of tickets and a chauffeured trip to accompany Johansson on a 20 minute date (yes, 20 minutes) to the world premiere of He’s Just Not That Into You.
As of late Scarlett Johansson has been seen with Indian film star Abhay Deol. In fact, he accompanied Johansson to the Möet Chandon event in Shanghai. She has criticized the media and Hollywood for promoting an image that causes unhealthy diets and eating disorders among women, saying, “Being ultrathin is not sexy at all. Women shouldn’t be forced to conform to unrealistic and unhealthy body images that the media promote.” She celebrates a “little of both” Christmas and Hanukkah and has described herself as Jewish. Johansson also has stated that she dislikes it when celebrities thank God or Jesus in their award acceptance speeches. Johansson is a Global Ambassador for the aid and development agency, Oxfam. In March 2008, a UK-based bidder paid
Later this year, expect to see her in We Bought a Zoo which is about a father who moves his young family to the countryside to renovate and re-open a struggling zoo. Next year, she will appear in the highly anticipated The Avengers (which ties in with Iron Man), and in the sci-fi thriller Under the Skin where she plays the starring role. Of course, being still so young, we can expect many, many more performances, both visual and aural, from Scarlett Johansson.
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Patong Resort, Phuket An Idyllic Family Resort at the Heart of Patong
The Patong Resort is a superb resort that occupies one of the best locations in Phuket. Set close to Patong Beach, the resort is ideally situated for an enjoyable island holiday with the whole family. Although the resort is just a few minutes walk from the beach, great shopping opportunities and Patong’s famous nightlife, guests may not even wish to leave the grounds of this fabulous property. The resort’s extensive gardens and numerous high quality facilities and attractions provide fun and excitement for all ages.
Patong Resort 208 Raj-Uthit 200 Pee Rd., Patong Beach, Phuket 83150 Tel: +66 76 340 551-4 Fax: +66 76 340 189 Email: info@patongresorthotel.com Website: www.patongresorthotel.com Bangkok Office: 942/130 Charn Issara Tower, 4th Floor, Rama 4 Rd., Bangkok 10500 Tel: +66 2 235 9040, +66 2 234 2406 Fax: +66 2 234 9007Email: bangkok@patongresorthotel.com A b s o l u t e t h A i a U g U s t/ s e P t e m b e r 2 011
“KC Resort & Over Water Villas is an oasis offering tranquility” Expression Magazine
The Home of the $44 Pie, Voted as one of Thailand’s Best Restaurants 2011 by Thailand Tatler and Member of the Secret Chef Society
Awaken your Senses in the only outdoor Sea Salt pool in Thailand with Watsu
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Absolute thAi hard time
hard time
iN the big tiger
t
here is a man sitting in a jail in scotland convicted of drug smuggling in thailand. having returned on an exchange program, he has already served eight years in jail in bang kwang central prison in bangkok. bang kwang is called the ‘big tiger.’ Why? because it eats you alive; that’s why. in april 2002, Julian gilbey woke up in the middle of the night, his body pressed next to a dead man. Packed into a small cell with 72 other men, there was only enough room to lie sideways. Fetid stinking body pressed next to fetid stinking body in a sweat bath of filth and disease lit by a never dimmed fluorescent tube. the man, who shuddered his last, tortured breath, next to a horrified Julian succumbed to tuberculosis. the guards left the dead man in the crush of still living bodies until morning. they only hauled out the soiled and stinking corpse by its feet at daybreak. thailand may actually be the most beautiful country in the world. every year millions of tourists enjoy the grace of its legendary hospitality. but in bangkok a few of those guests are looking at a separate menu.
desPerate FOr, “a little extra chickeN With their rice,” maNy OtherWise heterO meN traNsFOrm themselves iNtO, ‘baNg kWaNg barbies’.
like 70% of those languishing in jail in thailand, Julian’s offence was drug related. those caught selling or smuggling drugs are usually sentenced to death by firing squad. For Westerners that sentence is usually commuted to life, but there is no guarantee. Julian claims he was duped into being a mule for a smuggling gang. they convinced him that he would only be 30 A b s o l u t e t h A i O c t O b e r / N O v e m b e r 2 011
ABSOLUTE THAI HARD TIME
carrying contraband diamonds. He has since admitted that it was, “an amazingly stupid thing to do.” He was arrested at the airport along with the pair assigned by the gang to watch over him – a shifty Dutchman and his prostitute girlfriend. When the police tore apart the suitcase Julian was supposed to take on board the flight they found four kilos of pure heroin in hidden compartments. Julian was thrown into Klong Prem jail to await trial.
to life imprisonment, Julian was hauled off to Bang Kwang, 15-pound leg irons welded around his ankles.
Chucked into a cell full of murderers, madmen, rapists and drug addicts it is ironic that the first sight that greeted him was that of other inmates blowing heroin into each others veins through a straw attached to a well used syringe. Arguing and fighting over who has had a fair go on the mixture, they were passively being watched from the doorway by an uncaring prison guard. Cowering in the corner with his head in his hands, contemplating the firing squad and his own naivety Julian wept; lost in a confusion of misery and shock.
Julian joined a non-exclusive club. Thailand gets 14 million tourists a year. There are thousands of European, American and Australian residents all over the country. They flood in to enjoy the resorts, the full moon parties, the women, and the good life. Some will head down to the islands to spend their days on some of the world’s finest beaches. Some will go to the cities where many find work teaching English or doing business. A naive few will run out of luck, money and common sense and engage in the high-risk activity of narco-tourism in order to turn a buck and maybe find a way out.
This may be Thailand, but there is nothing Buddhist or enlightened about Bang Kwang prison; a decaying complex in the northern suburbs of Bangkok. Here, rehabilitation is not on the agenda. It is simply a place of mindless, squalid vengeance and slow, crowded, harsh, grinding punishment.
Convicted and sentenced to death, quickly commuted
32 A BSOLUTE TH A I O c t o b e r / N o v e m b e r 2 011
ABSOLUTE THAI HARD TIME
and nothing is for free. Even the little patch of sleeping space in the cell must be paid for. “It was two quid a month for the sleeping spot and I paid another three quid for a bucket of fresh water to wash in the morning,” says Julian. Most of the Westerners have access to a little money from friends and family, but not all. One inmate serving a life sentence for heroin trafficking was on the edge of starvation for his first two years. “The only thing they give you free is a bit of dirty rice and something they call soup. It smells like it’s rotten, and it looks like dishwater. If you’re lucky you might find a fish-head or a chicken-foot floating in it. I couldn’t eat it because I would throw up just to smell it. So I starved and begged what I could.” Those prisoners without money have to work or run scams to make ends meet. The Nigerians, the biggest group of non-Asian inmates, run the thriving prison drug trade. The Hong Kong Chinese are the locksmiths. Others will run books on the fighting fish, Bang Kwang’s biggest gambling sport. Some will be carpenters or take in washing. Quite a number of the Thai inmates paper over the gaps of a society without women. Desperate for, “a little extra chicken with their rice,” many otherwise hetero men transform themselves into, ‘Bang Kwang Barbies’. Their fluffy pink bras and lace red panties festoon the clothes lines. All this trade is fueled by corruption. A prison guard earns only fifty UK pounds a month. It is interesting that many of them wear a lot of gold and drive expensive cars. If the money is right they can get you a mobile phone, facilitate drug deals both in and out of the jail or get a blind eye turned when a blind eye is needed.
If caught and convicted though, they enter a world of inexorable heat in a place where the lights are never dimmed and the noise never ceases. The screams of the insane and the moans of the sick make sleeping a talent to be learned only with time. Crowded 20 to a cell, they have to wash in filthy water drawn straight from the nearby Chao Phraya River – one of the most polluted waterways in the world. The filth causes skin diseases and sores that fester in the claustrophobic humidity.
When a prisoner gets sick they are sent to the ‘hospital’. Tuberculosis and AIDS are endemic in Thai prisons. Treatments are primitive or non-existent.
Using the ‘facilities’ is a trial of the senses. The toilets are open, as are the sewers. In the rainy season the whole prison floods and the sewers overflow. Another prisoner says with a bleak chuckle, “You have to get used to walking through your own faeces for a couple of hours.” Locked in the cramped cell for fourteen hours a day from 4pm to 6am the only relief is a bucket in the corner. One bucket for twenty men.
Even when guilty, those doing hard time are usually the petty dealers and the hapless mules. The real culprits often remain at large protected by complex webs of corruption and unimaginable amounts of cash to keep the wheels oiled. Meanwhile the little fish are thrown to the tender mercies of the Big Tiger. It is a primitive animal in a country that trumpets its culture, tolerance and civilization. Welcome to the Land of Smiles.
Some of the horrors of prison life can be alleviated if you have money. Everything is for sale in Bang Kwang,
34 A B S O L U T E T H A I O c t o b e r / N o v e m b e r 2 011
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Absolute thAi Necker islaNd
Necker islaNd a taste of Paradise W O r d s : peter holthusen
t
he caribbean is already well-known worldwide for it beautiful beaches, stunning coves, world-class resorts and exotic blends of rum, but the british virgin islands are something of a hidden gem. the sailing conditions are absolutely ideal, and you won’t hear the drone of jet-skis distracting you from your relaxing slice of paradise.
located as it is just north of virgin gorda, Necker is one of the smallest islands in the british virgin islands, and is branson’s home and favourite caribbean hideaway. Famous for his virgin brand and the virgin galactic sub-orbital spaceflight programme, branson first became aware that some of the islands in the british virgin islands were for sale in 1977. the following year he went to the islands for a holiday in order to investigate the prospective real estate opportunities there.
it was recently my good fortune to spend a week on Necker island, sir richard branson’s private island paradise in the british virgin islands. the island is spread over 74 acres and sits in turquoise waters surrounded by corals reefs and fringed with beautiful white sandy beaches.
Upon arrival, he was given a luxury villa and travelled around the islands for sale by helicopter. On first observing the islands, he envisioned using them to put up rock stars for his record label. the final island he saw was Necker island, and after climbing to the top of devil’s hill and being captivated by the view and abundance of wildlife, fell in love with the island. the rest as they say, is history!
Necker is ONe OF the smallest islaNds iN the british virgiN islaNds, aNd is braNsON’s hOme
the island was owned by lord cobham at the time, who had been faced with mounting bills for the upkeep of his 18th century home and family seat, hagley hall in Worcestershire. after making a lowball bid of £100,000
aNd FavOUrite caribbeaN hideaWay.
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A b s o l u t e t h A i O c t O b e r / N O v e m b e r 2 011
for the £5 million island, Branson was turned down and quickly evicted from the island. However, a while later, the Viscount’s wife Lady Penelope left him for David Mellor, the former Tory minister in a much publicized affair, and he was forced to sell some of his heirlooms to help him pay for his divorce. In need of short term capital, Lord Cobham eventually settled for £180,000 after Branson had offered his final price of £175,000 for the island, three months before the actual sale took place. However, the British Virgin Islands Government imposed a relatively common restriction on alien landholders; that the new owner had to develop a resort within five years or the island would revert to the State. Branson committed, determined to build a resort on his tropical dream island, notwithstanding his relatively modest capital at that point in his career.
Branson was only 28 when he purchased the island, just six years after starting the Virgin Group. It took three years and approximately US $10 million to turn it into a private island retreat.
When Branson bought the 74 acre (30 hectare) island, it was uninhabited and largely deforested for in 1968, the journalist Andrew Alexander and the photographer Don McCullin ran a survival test on the island in preparation for an article they were writing for the Weekend Telegraph on what it was really like to be marooned on a deserted island. They were on Necker Island for 14 days and chopped down most of the palm trees on the island for use as a shelter. Branson was only 28 when he purchased the island, just six years after starting the Virgin Group. It took three years and approximately US $10 million to turn it into a private island retreat. About three-quarters of a mile long and half a mile wide with a hill some 100 ft high running down the centre, it had two good beaches but no buildings, no fresh water and very few trees. It is now more comfortable. The houses have been built in traditional Balinese style with no obvious expense spared. The timber and the dark stone for the walls were brought from Brazil, the honey-coloured floor stone from Yorkshire. The statues, antiques, works of art, fabrics and bamboo furniture came from Indonesia.
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A BSOLUTE TH A I O c t o b e r / N o v e m b e r 2 011
ABSOLUTE THAI NECKER ISLAND
Branson spends three months of the year on Necker Island, keeping open house for his friends and family, and considers it his home. When he isn’t there, the island is available to rent to the rich and famous – the usual suspects – with the odd US $54,000 a day to spare on a holiday. The clear message is that not only is he incredibly rich (although there must have been times over the past 25 years when things were a bit rocky), but also socially and environmentally responsible in not wanting to leave the island empty and unused. There are six unique Bali Houses dotted around Necker Island which are perfect for tropical seclusion. Bali Hi, Bali Cliff and Bali Beach are built on a cliff in order to maximize views and sea breezes, and share a plunge pool. Bali Lo, Bali Buah and Bali Kukila can be found in the middle of the island and boast wonderful views with a large private pool. Golf buggies (mules) are provided so guests can drive themselves to other areas of the island. The island has accommodation for up to 28 people and rents out at US $54,500 to $55,000 a day, and they normally require a three-night minimum stay for exclusive hire of the island. All this includes two “private” beaches, private pools, tennis courts, breathtaking views, a personal chef, a team of 60 full-time staff and a wide array of watersports. If all the activities on Necker Island weren’t enough to keep you busy, this private island paradise now has a world-first, a 3-person aero submarine they call Necker Nymph. This underwater ‘aircraft’ has been designed especially for Branson’s Virgin Limited Edition portfolio of luxury properties, and takes exploration under the sea to a whole new dimension. Two passengers sit either side of a trained pilot who will take the submarine down to as deep as 30 metres below the surface, where you will have a front row view of some spectacular marine life.
this private island paradise now has a world-first, a 3-person aero submarine they call Necker Nymph.
In 1989 Sir Richard Branson arrived for his wedding on Necker Island clinging to the struts of a helicopter ... now that’s making an entrance! Your own arrival on the island need be no less dramatic, for despite its solitude, access is relatively easy. The closest international airport to Necker Island is on Virgin Tortola (or Beef Island) which is a 35-minute flight from San Juan, Puerto Rico and up to a 1 hour 20 minute flight from Antigua. It is possible to fly to the
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A BSOLUTE TH A I O c t o b e r / N o v e m b e r 2 011
Absolute thAi Necker islaNd
WheN yOU sPy aN islaNd ON the hOriZON, a POWerFUl FOrce takes Over. it’s as iF the hUmaN Psyche demaNds that We discOver aNd exPlOre.
FuRtheR iNFoRMAtioN
british virgin islands via many parts of the caribbean, with the most popular routes being via san Juan, antigua and st. thomas. it is also possible to arrive by speedboat, as Necker is only a 30 minute crossing from tortola and 10 minutes from virgin gorda where there is another smaller airport. another novel way to arrive on Necker is by seaplane, which can be chartered from most of the neighbouring islands.
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When you spy an island on the horizon, a powerful force takes over. it’s as if the human psyche demands that we discover and explore. if that island is Necker, you’ll be well rewarded for charting a course to her shores.
t: +44 (0) 208 600 0430 F: +44 (0) 208 600 0431 W: virginlimitededition.com
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A b s o l u t e t h A i O c t O b e r / N O v e m b e r 2 011
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Absolute thAi chaO Phraya bOat crUise
traNQUilly glidiNg UP the chaO Phraya
W
e seem to be living in an age where the priority is to live life as fast as possible, but i discovered how to travel slower by dropping down a gear. simply by gliding along the chao Phraya river comfortably seated on the deck of a converted rice barge, it was a truly heavenly treat.
my voyage of discovery started when i boarded the anantara Song moored at the pier of anantara bangkok riverside resort and spa. having crossed the threshold, i was greeted with a refreshing cold lemon grass scented towel and a welcome glass of champagne. i then seated myself in an armchair at the front of the rice barge to ensure i had an uninterrupted view. Just after 10am we slipped anchor heading sedately upriver passing the mandarin Oriental hotel bangkok, the delightful riverfront historic residences of the French and Portuguese ambassadors, Fort thonburi, and the back of china town’s vegetable market.
simPly by glidiNg alONg the chaO Phraya river cOmFOrtably seated ON the deck OF a cONverted rice barge, it Was a trUly heaveNly treat.
Our first stop was at the temple of dawn known locally as Wat arun; bangkok’s best known temple and an iconic symbol of the city dating back to the ancient
46 A b s o l u t e t h A i O c t O b e r / N O v e m b e r 2 011
ayutthaya era. the tall elongated central khmer style tower is surrounded by four mirrored towers symbolizing mount meru which is the earthly representation of the thirty three heavens, while the pavilions contain statues of buddha at the most important stages of his life. We re-boarded the rice barge to continue up river before turning left in klong bangkok Noi to visit the National museum of the royal barges; home to an incredible collection of gilded and ornately decorated boats. the most spectacular of them is his majesty the king’s suphannahongse built in 1911 to resemble a mythical swan.
anantara (FOrmerly kNOWN as Manhora) SonG is a 20m river barge that has beeN lOviNgly restOred aNd lavishly cONverted iNtO a delUxe river crUiser. belOW deck she has FOUr cabiNs; each With a QUeeN siZed bed aNd cOmPact eNsUite bathrOOm.
back on board after our short tour, the chef serves some delicious thai cuisine for lunch. shortly afterward, we passed the man-made island of koh kret in Nonthaburi Province, built in the last 100 years when a canal was dug to shorten the journey around a circuitous bend in the river. anantara (formerly known as Manhora) Song is a 20m river barge that has been lovingly restored and lavishly converted into a deluxe river cruiser. below deck she has four cabins; each with a queen sized bed and compact ensuite bathroom. On deck there is there is an expansive salon and dining area with bar, plus an ample sun deck forward with loungers. interior designer kathleen heinecke was responsible for the complete makeover given to the rotting hull she found in the river. “there was no floor, no roof, only a piece of tin,” recalls kathleen. “it was like a boat you might have found in a junkyard, but still i fell in love with it at first sight. We spent two years nursing the run-down 1950’s barge through its restoration, rebuilding the entire boat piece by piece.” after lunch, while relaxing on the deck, i noticed the river was now carrying less debris, and, although not sparkling clean, it is considerably cleaner than at the start of the journey. For those who live on the banks of the chao Phraya river is their only source of water. they bath in it, wash their clothes in it and use it to cook their food.
47 A b s o l u t e t h A i O c t O b e r / N O v e m b e r 2 011
Absolute thAi chaO Phraya bOat crUise
having finished our afternoon tea we make a brief stop at Wat Pathum khong ka to feed the fish which is a simple way of making merit which hopefully will bring good luck in the future. this promotes the buddhist cycle of life by feeding the fish so that they in turn can produce life. We arrive at Wat samakkeeyaran just as the sun was setting over the mighty chao Phraya river, and this was where we were mooring for the night. i went down to my stateroom to freshen up, returning on deck to aperitifs and thai canapĂŠs. Following this, we were served a traditional thai dinner by candlelight. tables were laid with starched white linen, silver, cut crystal and bone china tableware and the menu started with yam sam-O (pomelo salad with shrimp and prawns), tom yam goong (sweet and sour soup with prawns), Phriew Wan Pla (sweet and sour fish), Phad Pahk ruam mit (fried vegetables), and gaeng kiew Wan gai (chicken in green curry) followed by carved thai fruit and sweets for dessert.
haviNg FiNished OUr aFterNOON tea We make a brieF stOP at Wat PathUm khONg ka tO Feed the Fish Which is a simPle Way OF makiNg merit Which hOPeFUlly Will briNg gOOd lUck iN the FUtUre. this PrOmOtes the bUddhist cycle OF liFe by FeediNg the Fish sO that they iN tUrN caN PrOdUce liFe. the next morning, my fellow passengers and i met our steward on deck. We were about to have the wonderful opportunity to make merit with the monks of Wat samakkeyaram. many foreign visitors to thailand are unfamiliar with the importance thai buddhist place on the act of making merit. thais believe it earns them happiness, peace in their life, and a chance to progress in their next life. as we pulled away from our moorings, a champagne breakfast was served. as i was reclining on a deck lounger long tail boats buzzed past us, small canoes were paddled across the river with local people returning home from the market. a mediterranean set lunch was served prior to our arrival at Wat Pannacherng, an old monastery which houses luang Po to, thailand’s largest ancient buddha image which was made in 1344 and is revered as the god Protector by the chinese who were the majority of the sailor community at that time.
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We met our tour guide who accompanied us to the UNescO World heritage site of ayutthaya, the ancient capital founded in 1350 by king U-thong from where the siamese ruled their kingdom for the next 417 years.
FOr thOse WhO live ON the baNks OF the chaO Phraya river is their ONly sOUrce OF Water. they bath iN it, Wash their clOthes
across from bang Pa in is Wat Niwet thammaprawat. this buddhist Wat was built in gothic style by king chulankorn (rama v). its stained glass windows make it one of the most distinctive buddhist temples in thailand.
iN it aNd Use it tO cOOk their FOOd.
the chef shared some of his secrets. after lunch, we relaxed on deck enjoying the serenity of this mode of travel. an english high tea was served prior to arrival back at anantara bangkok riverside resort and spa Pier. after this enchanting travel experience i fully concur that this is “the eastern & Oriental express” on the river.
after our second night’s sleep onboard a freshly prepared breakfast was served at 8am, and an hour later we left with our tour guide for a tour of Wat Niwet thammaprawat. From there we continued onto bang Pa in summer Palace originally built by king Prasat thong as a country residence for the later king of the ayutthaya period. When the capital moved to bangkok bang Pa it was abandoned for 80 years until being revived by king rama v who commanded additional theatres, temples and monuments to be constructed in an eclectic mixture of european, chinese and thai styles.
Anantara Cruises on the Chao phraya River 257/1-3 charoennakorn road, thonburi, bangkok 10600, thailand
then we travelled to bang sai royal Folk arts and crafts centre under the patronage of her majesty the Queen. here we were able to see a variety of regional style thai houses and discover how the rural people of thailand make handicrafts.
t: +66 (0) 2477 0770 F: +66 (0) 2477 0811 e: kihavahmaldives@anantara.com W: bangkok-cruises.anantara.com
Our drivers took us to the bang sai royal Folk Pier to rejoin anantara Song for a thai cooking course where
49 A b s o l u t e t h A i O c t O b e r / N O v e m b e r 2 011
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Absolute thAi dUsit d2
dUsit d2 baraQUda Pattaya relax in true style
t
his stunning boutique hotel located in the heart of one of thailand’s premier beach destinations, Pattaya, the dusitd2 baraquda Pattaya successfully mixes traditional designs with a splash of modernisation. its unique personality derives from thailand’s warm, colourful character and panache that are served up with international standards; ensuring that a stay at dusitd2 baraquda Pattaya will be one to be remembered by all of its lucky visitors.
understatement, cool is partnered with comfort, and contemporary with tradition. the dusitd2 baraquda boasts a unique design where natural elements are mixed with urban touches that can be seen throughout the entire complex. Water, light and air themes twist their way through the funky bars and elegant rooms to provide each and every guest with a mood that is both tranquil and inspiring. the dusitd2 experience
the award winning resort is a stylish combination of contradictions where a minimal approach is accompanied by boldness, colours are met with
the first thing that many visitors to dusitd2 baraquda notice is the relaxed ambience felt throughout that is accompanied by a dash of fun and a sprinkling of
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excitement. while it is easy to chill out and unwind in the spa, it is equally as simple to get active and pumping in the gym. the beauty of the dusitd2 experience is its ability to please everyone. from those who are looking for a calm place to relax through to those with an active side looking to snap into action with a round or two of golf; before partying the night away in one of the many bars found in the resort grounds. accommodation All the Rooms Provide: • high speed internet • a personal safe deposit box • dvd player, cd player, panoramic flat screen tv with cable access, iPad dock (on request) • in-room tea and coffee making facilities • modern and unique bathroom designs that dazzle • intimate bedrooms with comfy down pillows the dusitd2 baraquda Pattaya has a total of 72 rooms, and each room has an interactive service agent who is there to provide each and every guest with a personalised service called the d’sire service. guests are able to check-in from 14:00 onwards and check-out time is noon. there are a few different room styles for you to choose from: Deluxe King Room the unique deluxe King is an ocean-themed room that provides guests with a truly one-of-a-kind experience. the king-sized bed is accompanied by a desk, telephone, entertainment units, panoramic flat screen tv, mini bar, safe, internet access, hair dryer, slippers and bathrobes. for your safety, a sprinkler system has also been fitted complete with smoke detectors and this is one of the most sought after guestrooms in the entire resort due to its unusual sea-based design. if you feel at one with the ocean; you will love this room! Studio Suite Room the popular studio suite offers guests apartment-style accommodation that has a separate living area and bedroom to provide an extra dynamic to the room. it boasts a spacious feeling with the same facilities as the deluxe King room but also features two trendy panoramic flat screen tvs, a lavaZZa coffee machine that makes deliciously rich coffee and a superlatively relaxing Jacuzzi bath. a welcome drink when guests arrive is also provided as standard as well as an additional drink of your choice served up at the deep bar.
the dusitd2 baraquda Pattaya has a tOtal Of 72 rOOms, aNd each rOOm has aN iNteractive service ageNt whO is there tO PrOvide each aNd every guest with a PersONalised service called the d’sire service.
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Absolute thAi dUsit d2
deeP bar is UN-missable FOr thOse lOOkiNg tO eNJOy a NaUghty Night OF revelry. PartygOers caN eNJOy siPPiNg their reFreshiNg cOcktails iN cOOl, ice-blUe sUrrOUNdiNgs that take ON the cUrves aNd sPikes OF a FrOsty cOld FlOatiNg iceberg.
Wining and dining in dusitd2 baraquda
Free-flow sparkling wine will be poured with breakfast, a one-hour spa treatment for one guest and 20% discount on spa treatments. On-site restaurants and laundry are also available.
dusitd2 baraquda is famous in Pattaya for its ability to satisfy all appetites and cravings, whether they are for tasty food or refreshing drinks! successful business people, fashionable young couples, international trendsetters and stylish retirees all come together to enjoy an eclectic mix of cuisines that range from local delicacies through to global dishes. sexy dishes filled with aromatic spices and herbs get your taste buds tingling with delight at this stylish resort, and the unusual layout of an open kitchen that sits in the heart of the dining area ensures that your dining experience will be transformed into a gastronomic journey.
d’suite Room the special d’suite is open plan offering visitors a truly spacious room that spreads out over two levels. the bedroom is separate from the living area and each individual space is customised and designed with privacy and comfort in mind. the intimate Jacuzzi is one of the highlights of this room and all of the facilities provided in the studio suite and king deluxe rooms can also be enjoyed in the d’suite. those who are lucky enough to experience the luxurious d’suite will never want to leave.
Once you have had your fill of delicious cooking, wander over to one of the three bars found in the resort.
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your liquid desires are pampered for by dusitd2’s professional mixologists and guests can enjoy indulging in traditional favourites as well as exclusive creations. the expert blending of fiery spirits and intense flavours are best enjoyed when consumed with the hypnotic sounds of chilled out music as well as some up-tempo beats. deep bar if you fancy spending the night in a funky bar, deep bar is the place to be. With cutting edge staircases taking visitors three stories high, trendy bar stools, cool lighting and fashionable staff serving up one of the most extensive drinks menus in the entire city; deep bar is un-missable for those looking to enjoy a naughty night of revelry. Partygoers can enjoy sipping their refreshing cocktails in cool, ice-blue surroundings that take on the curves and spikes of a frosty cold floating iceberg. s.e.A. s.e.a. is the main restaurant found in the grounds of dusitd2 baraquda that boasts international standards with a tropical twist of local paradise. dining at s.e.a offers guests a taste of the region’s unique flavours and zesty thai specialties are joined by fresh seafood dishes cementing s.e.a. as one of the best places to wine and dine in Pattaya. sunset lounge
the dUsitd2 baraQUda bOasts a UNiQUe
if alfresco dining appeals to your sense of style, the sunset lounge provides panoramic views over the dazzling Pattaya skyline that is best enjoyed at sunset. tapas and cocktails are the order of the day at sunset lounge and the naturally cooling breeze brings with it a revitalising lift that is made even more enjoyable by the luxurious surroundings and comfortable furniture.
desigN Where NatUral elemeNts are mixed With UrbaN tOUches that caN be seeN thrOUghOUt the eNtire cOmPlex.
each way and you should pre-book your transport when you book your room.
d’lounge d’lounge is a blend of cool yet cozy, sleek yet sexy, classic yet urban and it provides guests with a unique ability to lounge and relax. guests can browse through the library collection of coffee-table books or surf the internet.
Whatever you’re looking for, dusitd2 baraquda Pattaya offers pure tranquility in luxurious style.
dusit transportation dusitd2 baraquda pattaya Pattaya 2 road, Pattaya city, chonburi 20260. For information and reservations please contact, t: + 66 (0)38 769 999 e: d2pa@dusit.com F: + 66 (0)38 769 900 W: dusitd2pattaya.dusit.com
getting from bangkok to dusitd2 baraquda is easy with the aptly named dusit sprinter. the 11-seat mercedesbenz provides travellers with air conditioning, magazines, mineral water and mellow music to get you in the mood for your holiday. the cost is 600 thb per person,
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Absolute thAi PhOtO cOmPetitiON
Photo competition WiN A FANtAstiC bReAK With Absolute thAi JUst seNd yOUr best travel PhOtOgraPh aNd yOU cOUld WiN FaNtastic PriZes FrOm: absOlUte resOrts aNatara baNgkOk air dUsit d2 Pattaya ibis imPiaNa samUi kc resOrt sereNity terraces to eNteR go to www.absolutethai.com/competition complete the online entry form and upload your photo for your chance to win one of these amazing prizes. Other than minor changes to lighting and colouring, the photo must not have been altered or edited in any manner that distorts the original photograph. entries should be submitted in the JPeg format at 300 dpi, of a size between 1-4 mb. For full terms and conditions please refer to our website www.absolutethai.com/competition
s hi UR you t tion! TO ow struc TE ll sh on SI e wi der c EE d w t un FR w anresor o g ll n zin Ca ma a
Two beaches, one perfect resort
Absolute Twin Sands is a spectacular collection of 46 contemporary apartments and penthouses on the tropical island of Phuket. Breathtaking ocean views, stunning interiors and five-star service in an outstanding peninsula setting.
• Multi-level infinity pools, relaxing cabanas, lush tropical landscaping • Exclusive fitness centre, sauna, steam room and well-being spa • Seamless five-star concierge service and fine dining restaurant • Set between two stunning beaches and host of amazing amenities • Fully furnished apartments include kitchens, double showers and state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment
Apartments are available to purchase off-plan, both Freehold and Fractional ownership and due to be ready for occupation in MAY 2012.
Register now at: AbsoluteTwinSands.com Sales Enquiries: Tel: +66 (0) 76 346 282 Email: visit@absolutetwinsands.com
Absolute thAi aUdi a6
the 2012 aUdi a6 3.0t W O r d s : paul eastland
W
hen it comes to buying a new mid–sized luxury car the choices are unlimited, however choose ultra luxury and the choices dwindle.
the 2012 audi a6 3.0t comes with a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty and roadside assistance package, and includes its first maintenance (within 12 months or 5,000 miles) for no charge. a6 has been working out since the third generation (2004 – 2011) rolled onto showroom floors. still recognizable as an audi, the new fourth generation a6 is more chiselled and defined than previous editions. it makes very good use of the now-signature audi led daytime running lights which underline the big horizontally-arrayed headlamps that wrap around the front corners of the vehicle. led tail lamps complete the effect.
in order to stand out in a very crowded field, audi focused substantial attention on the all new 2012 audi a6; packing it full of every available technology and luxury feature in their arsenal. if you tick all the boxes on your order form, you can take an a6 3.0 tFsi quattro auto tiptronic sedan from its base price of $49,900 all the way to an as-tested price of $71,330. that puts the a6 into some very heady company – just the way audi likes it.
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Further “add ons” can up the ante even further with a $5,800 “innovation Package,” which includes led headlights, along with several other high-tech options that i’ll discuss later. led is a great technology for headlights, throwing crisp, bright light without generating a lot of heat or requiring much power relative to the output. leds are resistant to vibration, and last far longer than halogen or xenon lamps. the downside to led headlights is the initial cost and replacement cost if they are damaged. but they do look cool. a6’s interior continues the muscular theme. On pure looks alone, audi interiors have risen to the top of the pack. clean lines, well-chosen materials and flawless fit and finish greet the eye and the hand. add in the standard and available technology within the cabin, and things get even more interesting. Push the “start” button on the centre console, and the colour screen deploys from the centre of the upper dash, whirring into the perfect position with unerring efficiency.
led is a great techNOlOgy FOr headlights, thrOWiNg crisP, bright light WithOUt geNeratiNg a lOt OF heat Or reQUiriNg mUch POWer relative tO the OUtPUt. leds are resistaNt tO vibratiON, aNd last Far lONger thaN halOgeN Or xeNON lamPs.
this screen will become essential in accessing and controlling the a6’s many capabilities. a rotary knob surrounded by several big buttons sits within comfortable reach in the centre console, and a touchpad resides to the left of the gearshift lever. redundant controls are housed on the steering wheel, and voice activation is also available. a6’s control layout is simple and intuitive, and it’s easy to master the basics in just a few minutes. a deeper dive into the audi multi-media interface (mmi) reveals shortcuts and even more sophisticated controls.
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Absolute thAi aUdi a6
adjust a cruise control speed and adjust and set your following distance on the fly. the system can bring the vehicle to a complete stop when necessary, and in a hurry.
the sound system can also be upgraded with a bang & Olufsen advanced sound system ($5,900), which replaces the already premium bose surround sound system that comes with the Prestige Package. the b&O system adds another moving part to the a6’s dash – a pair of spaceage tweeters that pop up in the upper corners of the dashboard every time audio is engaged. the sound within the a6’s cabin rivals some home theatre systems that i’ve evaluated, and definitely merits critical listening. media can be stored on the a6’s digital hard drive or streamed from a bluetooth device, and sirius satellite radio and terrestrial radio are standard. hd radio is available as part of a package, and delivers a signal worthy of the b&O system.
another innovation Package feature that can be enjoyed is the heads up display, which projects vital information, like vehicle speed and cruise control settings, onto the windshield. i appreciated not having to take my eyes off the road any more than necessary. With all of that technology onboard, any feature that reduces distraction is a good one. i haven’t touched on all of the high-tech features available on the a6, like audi connect Wi-Fi and Night vision assistant. distraction is an enemy of safe driving, and so is velocity. a6 is capable of jolts of velocity, especially when equipped with audi’s 3.0-litre
audi’s acc adaptive cruise control (part of the innovation Package) allows you to set and
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supercharged direct-injected v6 engine that produces 310 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. the 3.0t’s wide power band makes driving the a6 a compelling experience, despite the sedan’s 4,045 lb curb weight. a super-low drag coefficient, along with quattro all-wheel drive and precise electromechanical rack-and-pinion steering gives the a6 excellent road feel, and big ventilated anti-lock disc brakes in the front and rear keep the drama to a minimum. this is a car that likes to romp. audi drive select is a standard feature that allows drivers to select steering, suspension and throttle settings, either as factory presets or customized, so the romp can be tailored to your driving style.
sound system, i would have a hard time justifying the $5,900 cost, especially when a very good bose system is available. if you choose a 2012 audi a6 3.0t, i can pretty much guarantee that you won’t blend in with the crowd – unless you want to. aUdi’s acc adaPtive crUise cONtrOl allOWs yOU tO set aNd adJUst a crUise cONtrOl sPeed aNd adJUst aNd set yOUr FOllOWiNg distaNce ON the Fly. the system caN briNg the vehicle tO a cOmPlete stOP WheN Necessary, aNd iN a hUrry.
it is easy to fall in love with the a6, but may be a bit of a put off by its price tag once all of the options are added. as much as i covet the b&O
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Absolute thAi FireFly airliNes
dON’t break that bUdget Firefly brightens thai skies with great prices and service
O
n your travels you may have come across Firefly, a highly successful airline operating out of malaysia. Firefly is a relative newcomer to the skies, being just five years in the business. it’s a budget airline but it’s definitely got an edge when it comes to flying people round the region in comfort.
incredible value for money. We’re proud to offer convenient flight times and excellent passenger services. On the atr 72-500s, which operate out of kuala lumpur’s city airport in subang, passengers get a 20kg check-in baggage allowance, complimentary in-flight refreshments, assigned seating and convenience. With the jet services, passengers are guaranteed lowest fares and savings on bundled sets of services and aerobridge facilities at all the airports that Firefly flies to.
absolute thai was lucky enough to interview busy but affable dato’ eddy leong chin tung, Firefly’s managing director, who has been with the company from its inception through till now.
FireFly cUrreNtly OPerates
You were present as the first Firefly plane touched down on the tarmac. Can you please give us a review of the history of the company?
daily FrOm sUbaNg tO kOh samUi aNd FOUr times Weekly FrOm
Firefly’s a wholly owned subsidiary of malaysia airlines and began its operations in 2007. Now it currently operates a fleet of atr 72-500 turboprops, b737-800s and b737-400s aircraft. the atr 72-500s operate out of Penang and subang, the b737-800s operate out of kuala lumpur and kota kinabalu while the b737-400s operate out of Johor bahru.
PeNaNg tO PhUket. something else that customers value is the code share agreement between Firefly and malaysia airlines. this means that all of Firefly’s customers, regardless of their location, have access to all domestic, regional and international routes offered by both Firefly and malaysia airlines via kuala lumpur international airport.
Firefly services include point-to-point connectivity with highly popular destinations in the indonesia-malaysiathailand growth triangle, which includes singapore.
Firefly isn’t just popular with travellers; it’s also got great accolades from travel bodies. it won the “2010 Frost & sullivan value airline of the year” award and the “green initiative of the year 2010” award by leaders in aviation. Firefly was also recognised as the best brand
briefly, what are the advantages of flying with Firefly? Well, there are quite a few reasons for choosing us. We offer low fares, but we don’t skimp on providing
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ABSOLUTE THAI firefly airlines
in Aviation for the Brand Laureate 2010. We’re keen to show that we deliver excellence. What were your biggest difficulties in setting up an airline? There were many aspects to consider. As you can imagine, all airlines face a legion of varying challenges such as fuel price volatility, security threats, infectious diseases, volcanic ash, earthquakes, tsunamis and political unrests. Despite all this Firefly still managed to carve itself a niche and continues to be highly profitable. What’s the formula for your success? We made certain we chose the right aircraft for our mission: ATR72-500 and B737-800. These two types of aircraft give us the optimum blend of economics, performance and good product match. We also make good use of the infrastructure that already exists in our parent company, Malaysia Airlines. All cost savings from there go into reducing our fares at Firefly.
Firefly is a relative newcomer to the skies, being just five years in the business. It’s a budget airline but it’s definitely got an edge when it comes to flying people around the region in comfort.
We also focus on matching capacity to unfulfilled demand, especially for secondary routes, and we have made a major hub out of Subang Airport, the city airport of Kuala Lumpur. You could say we’re obsessed with providing extraordinary service quality. We adopt the best practices of low cost carriers as well as full service carriers. Just because an airline offers low fares, it should never mean that the service and the flights should be unpleasant. How do you motivate your staff to constantly and consistently offer great service? Firefly has a policy to recruit the best people for each job. A great deal of thought has gone into this. For our front-liners recruitment is based on behavioral characteristics consistent with our Firefly brand. For example, we believe it’s essential for cabin crew to be extroverts. In this way Firefly spends all its energy on actually making our customers happy instead of motivating our people to make customers happy.
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To further enhance our service quality focus, we track our customer satisfaction index every flight, every day. A summary report of the previous day’s customer satisfaction survey gets circulated every morning to all relevant personnel who are either directly in charge of the matters being surveyed and/or have influence over it. Additionally, all our reporting systems are digitized. That means all personnel are able to highlight any shortcomings and that in turn ensures that any problems get immediate attention. The idea is to realize when and where there’s a problem and to put it right – as quickly as possible. How is the future looking for Firefly? Firefly definitely lives in interesting times. We are located right at the growth centre of the global economy where the skies are increasingly being liberalized. Firefly’s cost structure, product and brand are well received by the consumer and therefore put us in a good position to capture the growing market segment. Concurrently our parent company, Malaysia Airlines, is undergoing a total fleet renewal programme which will be coupled with significant product enhancement. With Malaysia Airlines entrenching itself as a premium 5-star carrier and Firefly cashing in on the growth of its segment, we are very optimistic about the future. How many times a week do you fly to Thailand and where? We’re currently operating daily from Subang to Koh Samui and four times weekly from Penang to Phuket. What are your plans for Thailand in particular? We’re potentially looking at offering the following services: from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi, Chiang Mai and Hat Yai. Also from Johor Bahru to Bangkok and Phuket, from Penang to Bangkok and from Kota Kinabalu to Bangkok and Phuket. Even if it’s not yet possible to fly to all these planned destinations, Firefly makes it really easy (and cheap) to get to Penang and Kuala Lumpur. There’s no need to splash out on an expensive flight or take that long, long bus journey down through the peninsula to get there. Once in Malaysia, you can use either Penang or Kuala Lumpur as hopping off points for other destinations.
To further enhance our service quality focus, we track our customer satisfaction index every flight, every day.
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Absolute thAi FireFly airliNes
Further south, kuala lumpur, the capital, has many attractions such as sunway lagoon theme Park and sunway Pyramid. travellers can select their accommodation from luxuriously-appointed hotels through to pleasant budget inns located in the city and its environs. always a buzzing place, you’ll enjoy kuala lumpur as a great city break.
kUala lUmPUr, the caPital, has maNy attractiONs sUch as sUNWay lagOON theme Park aNd sUNWay Pyramid. alWays a bUZZiNg Place, yOU’ll eNJOy kUala lUmPUr as a great city break.
if you’re looking to book a flight to malaysia with Firefly, you can either choose to do so through one of the airline marketing representatives on Phuket or on koh samui. you can also call direct to Firefly’s call center at +603 7845 4543 or consult their informative website at www.fireflyz.com.my.
Penang, “the Pearl of the Orient”, was once a prized british settlement. it lies just off the northwestern coast of Peninsular malaysia. it comprises georgetown, which combines the best of east and west and is packed full of history. it’s also quite cosmopolitan, while outside you’ll find jungle, tropical beaches and the seas to match them. despite being a fairly small island, it’d be easy to spend a year here just experiencing and enjoying the atmosphere and the beauty of the place.
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Absolute thAi the vOgUe hOtel
the vOgUe hOtel art-deco Opulence comes to Pattaya WOrds: paul eastland
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Absolute thAi the vOgUe hOtel
O
f all the new hotels that are springing up in the ultra fast growing city of Pattaya the vogue stands head and shoulders above the rest in its category. it doesn’t pretend to be the ultimate in luxury hotel accommodation that most of the “super groups” do or charge the mega bucks that these groups seem to charge. What it does offer is excellent accommodation with all the facilities and more that you would expect from this kind of hotel.
entering the vast minimalistic lobby you can finally ease off the trauma of your long journey and relax on one of the large comfortable sofas whilst sipping a much needed welcome drink as the attentive staff complete your check-in formalities. location the vogue is located in the heart of central Pattaya, close to all the major attractions which can be easily reached by foot or, if you are less energetic, by one of the multitude of taxis that are called song thaews, these will take you anywhere for the price of just a few baht.
ON arriviNg yOU Will marvel at the art-decO architectUre OF this
One of the great points of the hotels location is that it is set well back from the 24-hour traffic so you will be guaranteed no sleepless nights. if arriving by car you will have no problem finding a parking space as the hotel has a large car park directly out front. also the vogue is disability friendly with wheelchair access to all areas.
stylish, chic bOUtiQUe hOtel. On arriving you will marvel at the art-deco architecture of this stylish, ultra modern, chic boutique hotel built in a style you would expect to see on the glittering seafronts of a classic miami movie set.
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PAT TAYA’ S H O T T E S T N E W B O U T I Q U E R E S O R T OWN YOUR OWN PLACE from under 50,000 USD
BOUTIQUE CHIC
.
SOUTH BEACH COOL
Absolute South Beach is Pattaya’s hottest boutique resort and sister resort to Phuket’s award winning Absolute Bangla Suites. CONTACT US NOW FOR MORE INFORMATION
For sales enquiries please contact Absolute Real Estate on: Tel: +66 (0)76 346 282 Email: salespattaya@absolutesouthbeach.com
www.AbsoluteSouthBeach.com
Award-winning Leaders in Fractional Ownership
Absolute thAi the vOgUe hOtel
Accommodation
television and a dvd player. also with these suites you get a wonderful panoramic view across the city; what better way to start your day than sitting on your balcony gazing over the city with a fresh cup of coffee.
the vogue is a medium sized hotel that boasts 234 guest rooms (216 superior and 18 junior suites). superior Rooms
Wining and dining
all rooms are equipped to a very high standard with every conceivable extra that you would expect from the comfortable cotton bathrobes down to the now obligatory tea and coffee making facilities.
the large ultra chic restaurant has glass sliding walls that, when opened, create a very pleasing, breezy, and cool ambiance. the extensive menu offers authentic thai cuisine from all the corners of the kingdom including the world famous tom yam goong (hot and sour prawn and lemongrass soup) all the way to the old favourites like chicken fried rice or noodles.
the furnishings have been chosen carefully with extremely comfortable cotton bedding on the luxurious king sized beds where you will have no trouble getting off to sleep after a hard days shopping or a long night partying. also for your enjoyment are top quality lcd televisions with cable and satellite channels from virtually all over the world. as you would expect there is a well stocked mini bar and safe deposit box as well as Wi-Fi internet access.
thai cuisine is not the only food served. here there is an incredible array of international dishes from all over the globe.
the well equipped bathrooms are glass fronted and come with double headed showers; one being the large cascade type that seems like a waterfall.
as the sun goes down, why not have a drink on the terrace before venturing out for your night time entertainment; there are a large selection of wines and cocktails on offer.
Junior suites
Recreational Facilities
the junior suites come as above but with a sitting room including a large comfortable sofa, another lcd
On leaving the lobby the hotel boasts 3 impressive swimming pools, each having a separate children’s 72
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travel services if you feel the need to travel anywhere distant, be it bangkok for a day sightseeing or you may want to visit one of the internationally acclaimed golf courses around the area, the hotel can provide you with a limousine service that can whisk you away with no problem at all. this service also includes transfers to and from the airport. there is a travel desk in the lobby that can book you on a vast array of tours and excursions. if you fancy a relaxing day on one of the offshore coral islands or a day at any of the local attractions, including the Floating market or Nong Nooch tropical gardens, the hotel can sort it out for you without a hitch. the staff khun banlue is the resident general manager. you will find him very approachable, and he has a vast amount of experience in the hotel business in Pattaya as he was born and grew up there. he knows all that is needed to know about the city and the local area; he would be delighted to pass on his knowledge to you. khun banlue has surrounded himself with a very professional teams that are polite and are willing to help make your stay as comfortable as possible. overview the vogue hotel is an ideal base for those that require luxury surroundings but do not want to pay astronomical prices. here you get great value for your money.
area, which are ideal for teaching the youngsters how to swim. each pool is surrounded by spacious decking and various tropical fauna. Why not relax on one of the many comfortable sun loungers whilst the attentive staff caters to your every whim, Whever it being a long cool exotic cocktail, a light snack or a full meal from the extensive menu offered.
the location means that you are in the heart of all that is happening in Pattaya. staying at the vogue will guarantee all this, and you will be rewarded with many great memories of your trip to the kingdom of thailand.
if you want to work away those extra calories that you will be sure to gain due to the astronomical amount of eating establishments in this city, why not visit the small but impressively appointed fitness room that has a full range of the latest exercise machines and weights for your convenience.
the VoGue hotel 315/33 m.9, Pattaya 3rd road., central Pattaya, Pattaya city, chonburi 20150 tel: 038-489-577-82 Fax: 038-489-577-82 e-mail: rsvn@voguepattaya.com
business Facilities the hotel also boasts a conference room and meeting facilities that are all equipped with the latest electronic equipment; including overhead projectors, state of the art sound system and internet access. refreshments can be supplied for all your delegates, from coffee and light snacks to a buffet or all the way up to a lavish banquet.
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Absolute thAi PrOmOtiONs aNd eveNts
kirimaya’s mOUNtaiN retreat midweek mini break with guaranteed Upgrade to Forest Pool villa
k
hao yai is a two hour drive north east of bangkok and enjoys invigorating fresh cool, crisp mountain air all year round. set in 800 acres of lush greenery bordering a UNescO world heritage rainforest and majestic mountains, is kirimaya – an idyllic 64 room resort that combines natural beauty with the chic elegancy of contemporary living.
golfers can totally immerse themselves in nature at kirimaya’s private 18-hole, par 72 championship Jack Nicklaus designed golf course with amazing vistas, lush greenery and panoramic views over the national park and mountains. maya spa offers a range of relaxing treatments after a day on the course. the kirimaya midweek mini break for two people is available from sundays-Fridays, starting from 1 November thru to 29 February 2012 and includes: • One nights luxurious accommodation • Guaranteed upgrade to the ultimate luxury – a Forest pool Villa (you will so not want to leave) • a blissful 60 minute massage (thai or aromatherapy) at maya spa • choice of a set dinner for two, or a round of golf (18 holes) (green fee excludes golf cart and caddy fee, a compulsory charge of b600 / Usd20 and b400 / Usd15 net per round) the package is priced at baht 8,900 (Usd 297) and is subject to applicable service charge and government taxes.
Reservations reservations can be made through the hotel’s reservations offices direct as follows:
additional nights rate (room and breakfast) – baht 8,900 (Usd 297)
bangkok t: +66 (0) 2257 0455-7 F: +66 (0) 2257 0459 e: reservation@kirimaya.com
black-out dates - 23 december 2011 through to 5 January 2012 inclusive
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Khao Yai t: +66 4442 6000 F: +66 4492 9888 W: kirimaya.com
Absolute thAi NeWs
the lOtUs terraces a dream come true
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he dream behind the lotus terraces, an exclusive, luxurious boutique villa resort on a quiet stretch of beach on koh samui, was a romantic one:
the resort prides itself of attentive five-star service. guests speak of the dedication and care of resort manager sue, with her enthusiastic team, including on-site chefs. they pay tribute to the flexibility and possibilities of the resort offering, a resort ideally suited to romantic getaways and the joyous company of family and friends.
“it’s an escape from the ordinary into a sensory delight of colour, comfort, texture and style: villas in harmony with nature. it is the merging of cutting-edge amenities and technologies in an environment so serene that you feel that life was always destined to be lived this way,” ton Nagel, co-developer, speaking during the resort’s development.
those lucky enough to experience a wedding at the lotus terraces, the latest dimension to this most flexible of resorts, find their hopes of romance, celebration and life-time memories come true.
Following two years of operation, the lotus terraces has established its reputation as the ideal location for a relaxed holiday, a development of 5 private villas overlooking the waters of the gulf of siam.
With a growing worldwide community of those who experienced the delight of the resort, the dream of the lotus terraces is just beginning…
amidst gardens and ponds, these tropically designed villas range from 2 to 5 bedrooms, each with a private pool. beautiful furnishings, high quality fittings, cool and earthy interiors with complimentary textures, exudes contemporary elegance.
the lotus terraces 12/18 moo 5, maenam, koh samui, suratthani 84330 t/F: +66 (0) 77 447 381 M: +66 (0) 89 972 3043 W: lotusterraces.com
like all great creations, the lotus terraces has developed a life and character of its own.
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Absolute thAi NeWs
hOliday iNN resOrt PhUket mai khaO beach OPeNed iN sePtember 2011 the family- and eco-friendly four-star premium hotel is Phuket’s latest jewel
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ntercontinental hotels group, the world’s largest hotel group by number of rooms, today announced the opening of the holiday inn resort Phuket mai khao beach in september 2011. the only four-star premium international brand resort on the northwest cost of Phuket, the new hotel caters to all types of travellers – from couples on a quiet, romantic getaway, to families seeking the perfect holiday, or those on an executive retreat.
the tea tree spa, and a selection of great dining facilities within the resort – be it a casual lunch by the poolside, a seafood extravaganza buffet or a romantic candlelight dinner at the beachfront. in-room amenities include a spacious balcony/terrace, a large walk-in rain shower, free wired/wireless internet, crisp beddings with soft and firm pillows to choose from, and more. conveniently located just 10km away from the Phuket international airport, and close to popular attractions like Phang Nga bay, sirinath National Park, and Phuket town shopping centre; the new hotel differentiates itself for its family-friendly offerings. its kid’s suite offers privacy for both parents and kids as they have their sections within the suite. the kids’ section of the suite comes with a bunk bed and a play corner that includes
in line with holiday inn’s recent global brand relaunch, the holiday inn resort Phuket mai khao beach is built with a contemporary design and offers modern facilities including a beachfront infinity pool overlooking the andaman sea, a resort centre for guests to chill out, a Fitness centre fitted with the latest equipment,
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a flat screen tv, a dvd player, and a game console. the Family suite has the same concept as the kid’s suite, but with a bigger room that connects to the specially designed room for the kids. the stylishly designed kids’ room comes with a kid’s bathtub, vanity counter and toilet. to cater to families with teenagers, the resort offers a teen Zone for youngsters to unwind and entertain themselves. there’s also a kid’s club where younger kids can have fun while their parents may pursue other interests and activities within the resort.
cONveNieNtly lOcated JUst 10km aWay FrOm the PhUket iNterNatiONal airPOrt, aNd clOse tO POPUlar attractiONs like PhaNg Nga bay, siriNath NatiONal Park, aNd PhUket tOWN shOPPiNg ceNtre.
“We have 246 rooms and suites that either overlook the lush, beautifully-landscaped gardens or face the stunning ocean,” said simon morley, general manager of the resort. “each room features the latest in hospitality technology such as lcd flat-screen tv connected to dvd players and iPod docking stations. there is free wired/wireless internet in the room and throughout the resort; while iPads are available for guests’ use to keep them connected while relaxing at our facilities.”
For more information on holiday inn Resort phuket Mai Khao beach, or for reservations, visit www.holidayinnresorts.com/phuketmaikhao or call +66 76 603 699.
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Absolute thAi NeWs
PaNgaea singapore
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angaea, the world famous ultra-lounge founded by american nightclub impresario michael ault, is situated within the marina bay sands’ one-of-akind crystal Pavilion, and they publicly welcomed guests on 22nd of september of this year in the week leading up to the fast and furious F1 weekend in singapore for its opening night.
ault speculates on the time and effort required in the preparation of his “biggest nightclub venture yet.” “this has been a two-year project in the making. there is no doubt that this will be the pinnacle of my professional efforts in my 30-plus year career. Where else, and under what circumstances, could one contemplate building a club in moshe safdies’ incredible floating crystal Pavilion, in what will no doubt be the most expensive and ambitious club ever conceived.”
the interior of the lounge is a super luxe affair, with specially designed fittings and furnishings made of visually eye-popping materials and fabrics including genuine zebra, crocodile and ostrich skins, the most exotic woods; and a Pangaea hallmark, michael’s personal collection of museum-quality african tribal masks.
the glamour and unique appeal of the Pangaea group of ultra-lounges has led it to become the playground of the rich and famous, with the likes of madonna, sting, kate moss, Jack Nicholson, val kilmer, lou reed, mick Jagger, and John travolta often gracing the premises.
taking it to the next level is nothing new, so it’s no surprise that Pangaea will soon reveal that it is collaborating with an internationally renowned designer who is crafting special gowns for the Pangaea girls – an exceptional group of immaculate hostesses.
Pangaea (singapore) email: info@pangaea.sg Website: www.pangaea.sg
dubbed the “international king of clubs” by any number of internationally famous publications, such as the new York times, the Miami herald, and Variety,
Operating hours: thursday, Friday, saturday – 10pm until late cover charge: $40 nett (no drink included)
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Absolute thAi FeatUre
magic iNk: sacred tattOOs OF thailaNd W O r d s : Joe Cummings
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nyone who has spent time in thailand has likely caught glimpses of exotic, fine-lined blackink tattoos, whether emblazoned across a kickboxer’s chest at lumpini stadium or decorating the bare shoulder of a woman on a motorcycle. these intricate designs, all but incomprehensible to the non-thai eye, belong to the historic sak yan (yantra tattoo) tradition.
depict deities, sacred animals or mythical creatures from the hindu-buddhist tradition. the akkhara (script) can be written in a variety of alphabets: khmer script throughout central thailand as well as in other parts of the country, and in cambodia, where the tradition has almost disappeared; shan and lanna script in northern thailand; tai lĂź in some parts of northern thailand and northern laos; and lao tham in northeastern thailand and in central and southern laos.
as elegant and eye-catching as the art may be, it is intended as far more than simple decoration. each design represents a specific magico-religious purpose, served not only by the design itself, but by the khru sak (tattoo master) who applied the tattoo and, just as importantly, by the self-discipline and morality of the wearer.
many people who approach tattoo masters for sak yan work in risky occupations, including police, soldiers, truck drivers, elephant trainers and muay thai (thai martial arts) fighters. such clients typically seek protection from physical danger, whether accidents or acts of aggression.
sak yan typically feature a combination of alphabetic syllables and geometric designs. some may also
People who work as office managers, salespeople and civil servants may seek bureaucratic power, successful
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promotions and pay raises. yet others would like to bolster their romantic charisma. there are also many general-purpose designs for good fortune and wealth. there are in fact as many laymen applying sak yan as there are monks involved in the practice. there are no female tattoo masters in the sak yan world, as it is generally believed that only men may engender the special powers required for the role. traditionally the tattoo master chooses the design, based on the client’s desired result. Once a pattern has been chosen by mutual consent, the master takes a mai sak (tattoo rod), dips it into a small saucer of ink, and begins tapping the design into the skin. the mai sak usually consists of a single metal rod measuring 5075cm, with a carefully sharpened end that is bifurcated in order to hold a few drops of ink. the master’s right hand moves the tattoo rod back and forth, using the weight of the needle and shaft to break the skin and deposit ink beneath the epidermis. at regular intervals of several taps, the stylus is dipped back into the ink reservoir to capture a new dab of ink. the thumb and index finger of the left hand are used to guide the needle itself. a typical sak yan can be completed rather quickly – anywhere from five minutes for a small one to 45 minutes for a larger one. blood only appears occasionally, and the process is less painful compared to the average machine tattoo. Once the inking is finished, the tattoo has no power until the master performs a consecration ritual. most will chant sacred verses, usually in Pali or a mixture of Pali and thai, for a few minutes while rubbing their hands over the fresh tattoo. some rub the tattoo with goldleaf, silver or consecrated oil. then they forcibly exhale a burst of breath through pursed lips, ‘activating’ the sak yan. some will also sprinkle nam-mon (holy water prepared by the master or by a local monk) onto the tattoo and onto the disciple’s head. at this point some disciples will briefly enter a trance, evoking the qualities of the yantra. Photographer dan White and i made field trips around thailand, cambodia and laos sporadically over a span of 18 months to find out what all these disparate sources had in common, and how they differed. it has been a journey that has not only taught me about the sacred tattoo arts, but has transformed the way i think about thai buddhism.
‘ s A C R e d tAt t o o s o F t h A i l A N d ’ written by Joe Cummings with photos by dan White. Av a i l a b l e s o o n .
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ABSOLUTE THAI Social
Recently The local community of Mueang Phia together with the Mongkolsarnvisudth Foundation led by Pol Gen Wichian Pojphosri, National Police Chief and President of the foundation (4th from left), Chairman and CEO of Absolute World Group Bryan Lunt (3rd from right), Director’s and staff, joined in a ceremony to mark the start of construction of the Wat Mongkol Luang Art and Culture Center at Wat Mongkol Luang, Tambon Mueang Phia, Amphur Banphai, Khon Kaen Province.
ABSOLUTE WORLD GROUP PLEDGE SUPPORT TO KHON KAEN’S NEW ART AND CULTURE CENTER
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s part of an ongoing commitment to social responsibility, the multi-award-winning Absolute World Group – Asia’s leading lifestyle property developer, resort and hotel operator, fractional ownership, and vacation club pioneer – announce their support of the new Art and Culture Center at Ban Phia in Khon Kaen. A grassroots project initiated and run by the local community, Wat Mongkol Luang Art and Culture Center is a project based on the principles of sufficiency and sustainable development as outlined by His Majesty the King of Thailand. Tambon Mueang Phia, or well known as the ‘ancient city of Ban Mueang Phia’, is one of the oldest communities located in Baan Pai district, Khon Kaen province. Based on archeological and historical findings in the area, Mueang Phia is thought to date back over 2,500 years and had a strategic role in history leading to the development of the modern day province of Khon Kaen.
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learn from. We are committed to assisting the local community to realize their vision. To preserve the city’s cultural aspects via a new purpose built central community centre which offers a focal point for the local people, as well as potentially a tourist attraction to the city, is an excellent idea. Also, the area has low and limited access to the private sector industry, and I’m sure Absolute can help make the connection which in turn will greatly help the foundation,” said Chairman Lunt.
Wat Mongkol Luang Art and Culture Center is a community project under the auspices of the Mongkolsarnvisudth Foundation. The local community of Mueang Phia plan to build the Art and Culture Center to house the significant archeological finds in the area and to act as a place where culture can be preserved. The art and culture center would help raise local people’s awareness of the history of the region and would become an eco-tourism destination based on sustainable development principles benefiting the local community.
Wat Mongkol Luang Art and Culture Center is now under construction and is expected to be completed in 201. Visit banmueangphia.org for more information on the Center and absoluteresorts.com to find out more about Absolute World Group.
Tambon Mueang Phia is part of Baan Pai district. A natural green resource of 12,000 rai with lotus ponds, rice fields and canals which play an important part in local residents’ everyday life, the local community wants to develop the area and preserve and showcase the art and culture through sustainable eco-tourism.
About the Absolute World Group Founded in 1998, the Absolute World Group of companies has positioned its 1300 staff 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 worldwide network of International Estate Agencies, a highly successful Vacation Club, boasting thousands of members and their pioneering Fractional Ownership division. Absolute is committed to delivering heavenly resort destinations from conception to completion and beyond, with the added value of its dedicated turnkey resort management service.
Headquartered in Thailand, with developments in key resort centres around the Kingdom (Phuket, Pattaya, and Samui), the Absolute World Group welcomes a large number of global tourists to Thailand each year. Absolute World Group Chairman, Bryan Lunt, upon hearing of the project was moved by the drive of the local community and their desire to establish a sustainable eco-tourism project. “Absolute World Group are a proud supporter of this valuable project. What the local community are developing here is something communities all over the world should
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