Approach Magazine September

APPROACH

MAGAZINE HUA HIN ISSUE 8: SEPTEMBER 2013

DOUBLE CABIN PICK-UP TRUCKS

medical tourism in thailand THE HISTORY OF ROCK & ROLL WHERE TO GO IN HUA HIN

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A P PAPPR R O AOACH C H MA AZINE MG AGAZINE

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EDITORIAL

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n interesting SMS from a friend pinpointed that human behaviour and religious fanatics are the downfall of human dignity and slow but sure destruction of our earth nature and resources. If we look around us, we can clearly see daily evidence of these atrocities. Reading interesting stories about our youngest history, not even going back more than a hundred years, in the 20th century our downfall was clearly ignited, may it be the world wars and crimes against humanity, the secret agencies activities, the terrorist attacks since the Munich Olympics and the brains behind it. Last but not least the involvement of governments and religious believes.

Don´t take me wrong. We must believe in something. That is what keeps us together and going.

However what I believe or you may believe in is ours. Believe, religion and doctrines should not be forced, sold or become part of intolerance and finally killings in the name of the Almighty, whoever he may be.

Approach is contributing their two pennies worth of advice on environmental responsibility, health and wellness but not unless we all join hands, can we survive. We did a book review on a very interesting author called Daniel Silva.

Read more about it inside.

APPROACH moving into Bangkok where we distribute our lovely magazine to all the airway lounges at S-Bhumi airport, top hotels and tourist recreational centres. Ever been in Soi Cowboy? Quite interesting and far more amusing than you may anticipate. There are also some good restaurants there and the Dutch can find their bitter balletjes, kroketten and frikandel special at the Old Dutch, whilst our neighbours across the channel can indulge in Pub delicacies.

Tried them both and if I go there again , may need to start a strict diet. All that with a couple of pints or a Grand Vin of your choice! You be the judge.

Governor Veera has exposed his infrastructural plans for Hua Hin and vicinity to be executed as soon as possible.

It provides for road improvements, avoid unauthorized commercial development, planning a new bypass of Hua Hin, elevating the paradisical beach destination of our town. Steve put the whole story in AWOL. Believing is seeing in this case. With Soi 112 being done in time related sections on a 3 year plan , some of us may not….let me not go there.

Check our contents for events in Bangkok . Chic Corea, Armando Anthony “Chick” Corea is an American jazz and fusion pianist, keyboardist, and composer. Many of his compositions are considered jazz standards, playing in BKK end of September.

With the Elephant Polo on it´s way as I write this, more events of this kind are desperately needed in this fast growing town with a foreign community. Apart from Lizzy´s , Hilton, Centara and Hyatt endeavours, there are few places to experience some western culture with good music , classical encounters and English movies.

Yours truly, GMoss

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Chief Editor

- Gerard Mosselman

Creative Director

- Ralph Ruijs

Executive Assistant

- Pimpawee Chotisupapokin

Email:

approachhuahin@gmail.com editor.approach@gmail.com

Contributing Writer

Website: www.approach-thailand.com Company Registration Number: 0775552001773

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Sing ha In Dept h IVE The Royal Beer MEDICIN E

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is the newest italian restaurant in hua hin and brings the real taste of Italy to Thailand You will taste the influence of Carlo’s Sicilian heritage with every beautiful dish and perfect wine selection.

That Carlo is an outstanding host by nature, and a great entertainer aswell which is not a secret in Hua Hin. If you catch the right evening, Carlo will surprise you with his opera songs and bring you the real feel of Italy.

Carlo’s Ristorante Italiono is the perfect place for fine Italian dining and to drink the best Italian wines.

Carlo will warmly welcome you, Buon appetito e salute !

Address: 174/1 Soi. Naresdamri, Hua-Hin, Prachuabkirikhun 77110 Thailand Phone: +66 (0)32 511 348 Mobile: +66 (0)81 197 4360 Email: info@carlo-huahin.com Website: www.carlo-huahin.com

CONTENT 8

Hua Hin Society

9

Lizzy’s Corner

12

10

Cool Stuff

12

Elephant Polo in Hua Hin

14

The History of Rock & Roll

16

The Monarchy of Thailand

20

The Art of Hand Made Soap

22

Action and Adventure in Cha-am

24

Where to Go?

26

Thailand, a Botanic Paradise

28

Isaan Province

30

Thai Legal Tips

32

Financial News

36

Environmental Sustainability in Resorts

38

Double Cabin Pick Ups

42

Super Sport cars

42

Read. Watch. Listen.

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The Sword of Stars: Day 16 Radnor

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Zara’s Recipes

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Puzzle Fun

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The Taste of Vietnam

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Hotel & Restaurant Promotions

54

Golf News August

56

The Tiger Growls Again

57

Hua Hin Golf Information

58

The Almighty “Pipeline” Waves

60

Hua Hin Fishing Lodge

62

The Artificial Sweetener

64

Medical Tourism in Thailand

66

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

68

Water Not a Public Right?

71

Map of Hua Hin

72

Real Estate News

74

Directory and Puzzle Answers

75

Approach Classifieds

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Italian Restaurant La Grappa 20/5,20. Poolsuk Rd. Hua Hin Tel : +66(0) 32 516 510 www : lagrappa-ristorante.com Email : info@lagrappa-ristorante.com

French Restaurant Le Bistro 214 Petchkasem Rd., Hua Hin Tel : +66(0)32 900 143 www.facebook.com/lebistrohuahin Email : romain@lebistrohuahin.com

Wine Bar & Shop Mondo Vino Co.,Ltd. 22/65 Naeb Kaehat Rd., Hua Hin Tel : +66(0) 32 531 493 www : mondovino.co.th Email : info@mondovino.co.th

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SOCIETY

HUA HIN

Winners Hyatt Open 2013 - Category A (0-9) Winner: Johnny Walker - Category B (10-19) Winner: Graham Haslam - Category C (20+) Hyatt Open 2013 Champion Winner: Arlius Telaumbanau

Hyatt Open 2013

at Banyan Golf Club

H

Players returned to Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin early on Sunday morning for Day 2’s play which commenced at 8am. The final scores were all counted & calculated, and the category winners were announced during the prize- giving lunch at The Terrace Restaurant at Banyan Golf Club.

yatt Open 2013 was held at Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin on the weekend of July 20 – 21. The event, now in its 4th year, is fast becoming known as one of Thailand’s best amateur golf events. The Hyatt Open 2013 is a collaboration between Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, Hyatt Regency Hua Hin and Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin.

During the prize-giving lunch, General Manager of Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, Sammy Carolus welcomed all players and indicated that 25% of those present had played in all 4 editions of the Hyatt Open, and that over 70% were playing at least their 2nd Hyatt Open event.

He also announced that the 5th edition of the ever popular Hyatt Open will be hosted at Banyan Golf Club in June of 2014.

Mr Carolus was joined by Richard Greaves, General Manager, Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, and Stacey Walton, General Manager Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin on the stage to award the prizes and to announce the Hyatt Open 2013 Champion.

Players participated in a 2 day Strokeplay event in 3 different handicap categories to find out who would be named as Hyatt Open 2013 Champion. The Hyatt Open also runs a mini, fantasy tournament, where Hyatt Open participants were drawn with a player competing at The Open Championship and the top 3 placed players receive prizes.

All players arrived to a wonderfully prepared golf course on Saturday morning, where the team of professional club fitters from Titleist were on hand to show them some new clubs on the market. 128 players teed off in a 12 noon shotgun start and enjoyed wonderful food & beverages around the course provided by Hyatt. Following completion of Day 1 play, all players were hosted for the official Tournament welcome dinner at Hyatt Regency Hua Hin. During the dinner, a charity auction took place with some wonderful packages from Hyatt, British Airways, Qatar Airways, Garuda Indonesia, and Jet Airways available. THB 500,000 baht was raised on the night for a Bangkok based children’s charity.

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Stacey Walton commented, “It is wonderful to see so many players returning each year to play The Hyatt Open. It has become one of the key events on our tournament calendar here at Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin and we are delighted to be associated with Hyatt and our other partner sponsors in the event. We are delighted that Hyatt Open 2014 has been confirmed & announced and we look forward to growing the event into one of South East Asia’s premier amateur golf tournaments”

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HUA HIN

Auch vielen Dank für eure Beiträge zur Charity Hua Hin. Es gibt leider so viele Fälle das wir es gar nicht mehr bewaltigen kunnen. Vincent Kerremans muss hier deutlich ernannt werden . Der Vincent ist dauernd unterwegs geh behinderten zu helfen mit Rollschtühlen und „Aus dem Bett Hebeeinrichtungen..“ Nachdem ihr unser Dirk Weeber überlebt hat, viele sehr positive Kommentare von Behandelten, wollten wir Ihm besuchen in Chiang Mai, aber das musste verschoben werden aus Königlichen Anlass. Der König von Thailand ist noch immer bei uns und ist oft am Strand um sich weiter zu erholen.

Wir wünschen Ihn alles Gute. Unsre Jungs sind jeden letzen Freitag im Monat am Stammtisch zu sehen.

Stammtisch ist in Hilton und du hasst Dort dein eigener Krug. Keine Weiber zulässig..nun sollen die doch Ihr Spaß haben und ein paar meilen Angeben, Jäger und Fischerlatein. Zuhause ist dan wieder das Männike sooo

Lizzy’s Corner lieb und klein. Einige haben Ihr Koffer gepackt und verkaufen Ihr habe, Einrichtung und Autos. Alles auf meine Emails Ihr Lieben und bitte direkt anschreiben.

Möchte nicht dazwischen Stecken.

Chicky Net Gründerin Berthe wollte Chicky Net website, Rechte usw. Verkaufen das Sie wieder nach Europa geht. Warscheinlich längst verkauft wenn Ihr das hier liest. Trotzdem bei Fragen: berthe@chickynet. com. Es wird geflüstert das die Herren ein Goggle Net aufmachen wolle. Lache mich halb tot. Sehe die schon zusammen sitzen mit Prinz Carnaval am Haupt des Tisches.

SOCIETY

O

hne Witz liebe Landsleute, Eidgenossen Enfants de la Patrie, Bundesbürger, Nederlanders und Tovariches. MCC war mal wider Spitze und obwohl die Teilnehmerzahl wegen den Sommer Ferien wo Grufties heimkehren um Ihr Nachlass zu checken und die liebe Enkel zu überraschen., es war gemütlich im Milestones mit Metropolis´s Cherry und uns eigener Elvis Ritchy boy, diesmal sogar in duett mit Jerry. CD verdächtig!

Wie war Elepfanten Polo? Schreib doch mal an Jerry wenn Ihr was auf die Leber habt..er publiziert es gerne: Letter to the Editor und vergiss nicht : Multi Culti am 28 jeden Monats, bring eure Freunde. Wenn Du 3 Freunde mitbringst, geht der Vierte „ummesonnscht“ rein.

Eure Lizzy

Lieve Nederlanders, wij zijn allemaal erg bedroeft met het overlijden van Prins Johan Friso.

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ijne Majesteit de Koning deelde met groot leedwezen mede dat Zijne Koninklijke Hoogheid Prins Johan Friso Bernhard Christiaan David, Prins van Oranje-Nassau, Jonkheer van Amsberg op Paleis Huis ten Bosch in Den Haag is overleden op 44-jarige leeftijd. Prins Friso is overleden aan complicaties die zijn opgetreden ten gevolge van de hersenbeschadiging veroorzaakt door zuurstof tekort bij zijn ski-ongeval op 17 februari 2012 in Lech, Oostenrijk.

Na behandeling op de intensive care van het Landeskrankenhaus in Innsbruck werd de Prins begin maart 2012 overgebracht naar het Wellington ziekenhuis in zijn woonplaats Londen. Sinds november 2012 vertoonde Prins Friso tekenen van zeer gering bewustzijn (“minimal consciousness”), een toestand waarin zich sindsdien geen veranderingen hebben voorgedaan. Begin juli 2013 werd hij overgebracht naar Paleis Huis ten Bosch alwaar hij niet meer tot bewustzijn kwam. De Nederlandse gemeente in Hua Hin is bijzonder bedroeft en stuurt de koninklijke familie in Nederland ons medeleven. Bij hun zijn onze gedachten.

Skal Lunch at Bangkok Hospital This time the monthly Skal lunch took place at the Bangkok Hospital with a special presentation by the Hospital Director Dr. Somarch about the services at the Bangkok Hospital and Health Tourism.

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LIFESTYLE

COOL STUFF Solar-Powered Laptop Billed as “the world’s first fully solar-powered laptop,” it requires just two hours of strong sun exposure to fill up the battery enough to allow ten full hours of computing use. With that kind of optimized generation-toconsumption ratio, you can, in theory, use this without ever plugging into an outlet. It uses a large panel of solar cells that fold out behind the laptop’s display to soak up a large amount of sunlight. Actual specs include a 13.3inch WXGA LCD, an Intel Atom D2500, 320GB SATA HDD, up to 4G of DDRIII RAM, Intel GMA6300 graphics, a 3.0 megapixel camera, built-in dual speakers, internal mic, WiFi, GPS, Bluetooth 4.0, and a 3G/4G radio. It comes preloaded with a standard Ubuntu build. www.solaptop.com

Samurai Kitchen Knives Each Samurai Kitchen Knives set includes one chef ’s knife, one bread knife, one utility knife, and one paring knife, along with a wooden sword stand that shows off your faux collection of historical artefacts in their full glory. While these are novelty knives, the blades are, of course, cut the same way as their traditional kitchen counterparts, so they won’t make food prep any more difficult than it normally is. All the knives come with realistic samurai sword handles, along with a matching set of red aluminium sheaths, so you can use it to stage a real life game of Fruit Ninja with the boys. www.fizzcreations.co.uk

Diesel Grand Daddy

Golf Cart Hovercraft

Why use a hovercraft in the golf course? Mostly, because you crave attention being an overgrown manchild. Partly, because the Golf Cart Hovercraft is just all manners of awesome. Powered by a 65hp twin-cylinder Hirth engine and a nine-blade axial-flow ducted fan, it can ride 9 inches off the ground at speeds of up to 45 mph, with backwards hovering up to 25 mph. Features include a four-person cabin, a lift-up roof, an open rear compartment sized to hold a pair of golf bags, motorcycle-style handlebars, and a skirt system with individually handmade segments. Hull is constructed from fiberglass and urethane foam composite. www.engadet.com

Described as “big and bold,” the Diesel Grand Daddy sports a watch case measuring 73 x 66 x 14 mm, so it’s quite the large presence strapped around your wrist. It features a lasercut crystal cover, pyramid texture dial, 3 ATM water resistance, a leather band, and all the ridiculous swag you can expect from an extra large watch with four full chronograph watches housed in a single case. www.dieseltimeframes.com

Coravin 1000 System

Indoor Flameless Marshmallow Roaster

The Coravin 1000 System performs the neat trick by inserting a thin needle through the centre of the cork, which injects argon into the bottle, forcing the contents to funnel out through the needle. Once you’re done and the gadget is removed, the hole left by the needle is so small that the cork will just reseal it, destroying any evidence that the bottle has been tampered with.

Unless your dad hires a fingerprint analysis on the bottles, that is, so make sure you wipe them off, too. The argon takes up the empty space in the bottle, preventing the remaining contents from oxidizing, so the wine retains its full taste long after you’ve partaken in its joys. www.coravin.com

The Indoor Flameless Marshmallow Roaster consists of a stainless steel heater surrounded by plastic containers for holding your supply of marshmallows, Graham crackers, and chocolate bars so you can make yourself an endless supply of s’mores without having to get up. There’s no settings for the heat -- just plug it to a wall outlet, turn the thing on, and it’s ready to roast. You can set it up in the middle of the dining table for a whole family snack, on the coffee table to get your sugar overload while watching the new Breaking Bad episodes, or the patio for that outdoor camping feel. A set of stainless steel forks for campfire-style roasting are included. www.hammacher.com

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The waiter wai button makes the difference between a sale and a lost customer, and shows your guests that you take them seriously. The modern design will fit in anywhere and the button can even be placed in a special display stand, in combination with your in-house promotions. Make your investment in the future today, - and reward yourself with more sales, and happy customers.

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HUA HIN EVENTS

Elephant Polo in Hua Hin AUGUST 28 - SEPTEMBER 1

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HUA HIN EVENTS

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dapted from equestrian polo, this amusing sport was founded in 1982 in Nepal, coming to Thailand in 2001 much to the joy of residents and visitors. It is now an annual event and if you have been to Hua Hin at this time

of year you will have visited it. Each Elephant carries a polo player and a mahout who guides the elephant.

The mahout directs the Elephant using his voice, hands, feet or a goad.

The umpire of the game oversees the play from a wooden howdah on the back of the largest elephant.

The highly anticipated King’s Cup Elephant Polo tournament kicked off its twelfth anniversary in the royal seaside town of Hua Hin from 28 August to September 1, 2013. This year’s event promised to have a ton of fun activities both on and off the field. This was very true as everyone, including school kids enjoyed the Elephant at their game.

Even the Elephants enjoyed Polo. We could see a smile on their trunks.

The four day festival has something for everyone including a spectacular opening parade, celebrity matches, Chang Noi Day (Elephant´s children’s Day) with a baby elephant camp and fun fair and this year for the first time, Ladies Day with prizes for the best dressed. A Moulin Rouge themed Auction Gala Dinner tops off the fundraising efforts with all the proceeds donated to various projects for the betterment of Thailand’s elephants.

With free admission for everyone, spectators were also be able to rub shoulders with European and Asian royalty, international sporting stars and local celebrities.

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This year would see Thailand’s defending champions King Power team go head to head with the New Zealand Rugby All Black’s Robin Brooke, Olo Brown and Charles Riechelmann, European royals Prince Carl-Eugen Oettingen-Wallerstein and his wife Princess Anna and daughter Princess Joanna. Miss Tiffany Thailand also added a hint of fun and a lot of color to the event with a full team of transgender beauty queens playing to win, as well performing at the Gala Dinner.

The tournament was introduced to Thailand in 2001 by Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas and has grown to become one of the biggest charitable events in Thailand. To date the event has raised almost $600,000USD for projects that better the lives of Thailand’s elephant population, including housing for the mahouts and families, shelters for the elephants and a mobile blood centrifuge and elephant ambulance for the Thai Elephant Conservation Center (TECC).

In addition to the 30 rescued street elephants who now enjoy a comfortable lifestyle at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, the annual event allows a further 50 young elephants to be taken off the streets for the two week period during the tournament, providing them with a native forest environment, the best food possible, as well as the only proper veterinary check and vitamins they receive all year.

The 2013 King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament was held at Hua Hin’s Suriyothai Army Base approximately 10 minutes from Hua Hin centre.

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MUSIC

The

History of Rock´n Roll

by Gmoss

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MUSIC

Bill Haley

Buddy Holly

Chuck Berry

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ock and roll (often written as rock & roll or rock ‘n’ roll) is a genre of popular music that originated and evolved in the United States during the late 1940’s and early 1950s, primarily from a combination of AfricanAmerican genres such as blues, jump blues, jazz, and gospel music, together with Western swing and country music. Though elements of rock and roll can be heard in blues records from the 1920s and in country records of the 1930s, rock and roll did not acquire its name until the 1950s.

In the earliest rock and roll styles of the late 1940s and early 1950s, either the piano or saxophone was often the lead instrument, but these were generally replaced or supplemented by guitar in the middle to late 1950s.

The immediate roots of rock and roll lay in the rhythm and blues, then called “race music”, and country music of the 1940s and 1950s. Particularly significant influences were jazz, blues, gospel, country, and folk. Commentators differ in their views of which of these forms were most important and the degree to which the new music was a re-branding of African American rhythm and blues for a white market, or a new hybrid of black and white forms.

No single record can be identified as unambiguously “the first” rock and roll record. Contenders for the title of “first rock and roll record” include Goree Carter’s “Rock Awhile” (1949); Jimmy Preston’s “Rock the Joint” (1949), which was later covered by Bill Haley & His Comets in 1952.

Other artists with early rock and roll hits included Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, Fats Domino, Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Gene Vincent. Chuck Berry’s 1955 classic “Maybellene” in particular features a distorted electric guitar solo with warm overtones created by his small valve amplifier.

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Johnny Cash

In July 1954, Elvis Presley recorded the regional hit “That’s All Right” at Sam Phillips’ Sun Studio in Memphis. Three months earlier, on April 12, 1954, Bill Haley & His Comets recorded “Rock Around the Clock”. Although only a minor hit when first released, when used in the opening sequence of the movie Blackboard Jungle a year later, it set the rock and roll boom in motion.

The song became one of the biggest hits in history, and frenzied teens flocked to see Haley and the Comets perform it, causing riots in some cities. “Rock Around the Clock” was a breakthrough for both the group and for all of rock and roll music. If everything that came before laid the groundwork, “Rock Around the Clock” introduced the music to a global audience.

In 1956, the arrival of rockabilly was underlined by the success of songs like “Folsom Prison Blues” by Johnny Cash, “Blue Suede Shoes” by Carl Perkins and “Heartbreak Hotel” by Elvis Presley.

For a few years it became the most commercially successful form of rock and roll.

Later rockabilly acts, particularly performing songwriters like Buddy Holly, would be a major influence on British Invasion acts and particularly on the song writing of The Beatles and through them on the nature of later rock music.

Both Bill Haley and Elvis Presley sold more than 25 Million copies of their singles “Rock Around the Clock” and “It´s Now or Never”.

However the most played and sold song ever now is “Candle in the Wind” (37 Million)by Elton John followed closely by Bing Crosby´s “ White Christmas” (30 Million).

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MUSIC

International Event in Bangkok CHICK COREA AND THE VIRGIL IN CONCERT.

O

n Friday the 20th of September, at the Thailand Cultural Centre. The ensemble is composed of the following top international performers : Chick Corea : Piano, Keyboard - Tim Garland : Saxophone - Carlitos Del Puerto : Electric Bass - Marcus Gilmore : Drums - Charles Altura : Guitar - Luisito Quintero: Percussion As a living legend, one of the top jazz pianist in the world, Chick Corea has attained the highest honour afforded to jazz musicians in his American homeland: being named a Jazz Master by the National Endowment of the Arts.

With 20 Grammy Awards in his trophy case, the musician has enjoyed an enviable career. Over the course of five decades, Chick has touched an astonishing number of musical bases, from straightahead jazz to avant-garde, bebop to fusion, children’s songs to chamber music, along with some far-reaching forays into symphonic works – all the while maintaining a standard of excellence that is awe-inspiring. A tirelessly creative spirit, Chick continues to forge ahead, continually reinventing himself in the process.

Jazz up your evening by joining him and his excellent rising stars band for a night of notable tunes.

MADE IN THAILAND

Don’t miss Chick Corea’s first performance in Bangkok.

Wooden Saxophones

T

he night bazaar in Chiang Rai, northern Thailand, is a country-style, night time market place where Thai hill tribes and local creative people can set-up small outdoor stands nightly to sell their arts and handicrafts.

Also found in this multi-ethnic setting are numerous Thai food stands and two outdoor stages that feature traditional Thai music, singers and dancers. While walking through this maze of stalls, I came across a Thai man who hand-makes wooden saxophones, to scale!

Each of his instruments is a real work of art and they can actually be played just like a brass saxophone. His attention to detail is amazing and he has made an alto saxophone for the King of Thailand as well as for several other sax musicians. He also sells traditional Thai classical instruments in his shop.

His hand made saxophones are one-of-a-kind and each is as unique as an artistic sculpture (and are quite expensive). For any professional saxophone player, to have a one-of-a-kind, hand made, wooden saxophone from Thailand, would be a musician/collector’s dream.

Pictured above is the artist as well as several of his saxophones (soprano, altos & tenors).

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ART

The Art of Natural Hand Made Soap

THE BUBBLES SOAP SHACK AT MARKET VILLAGE.

E

ver wondered what is in a soap bar you by over the counter at your favourite supermarket. Or ever wondered what is in all the liquid soaps so smartly displayed I our mega stores racks?

Ammonia, Formaldehyde, Propylene Glycol, Parabens, Urea, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, Sodium Cocoylisethionate, Stearic Acid, Synthetic Preservatives, Sodium Tallowate, Sodium Isethionate, BHT, Sodium Stearate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Chloride, Tetra sodium, EDTA, Trisodium Etidronate, Aluminium, Isopropyl Alcohol, Artificial colours etc. etc.

They are more like detergents which are good to wash very greasy oily dirty hands , dishes and cars. You don’t really want to take a shower with detergents every day!

So, what are the alternatives?

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Bubbles Soap Shack at Market Village produces handmade, hand crafted natural soaps with natural essences and oils. Hand crafted soaps are made from fine vegetable based oils and contain natural herbs and essential oils that nourish the skin and can help relieve particular skin problems (often caused or exacerbated by commercial detergents).

They’re loaded with the naturally occurring glycerine that is part of the normal soap making process.

Clean and Green - Handmade soaps are not only better for you but are much more environmentally friendly as well. This is because the soaps are produced locally and don’t include synthetic chemicals or their by-products that can find their way into the ecosystem for a healthier world and a healthier you!

Kasinee Teslamluek is the lovely lady that not only creates and produces the soaps with her husband Paul but sells them at Village Market on market Saturdays. You can find her booth as you enter the Plaza on your left hand side next to the stairway going to KFC.

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HERITAGE

The Monarchy of

Thailand IN HONOUR AND RESPECT TO HIS MAJESTY VISITING HUA HIN.

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HERITAGE

The Siamese-cum-Thai monarchy dates from the founding of the Sukhothai Kingdom in 1238. The monarchy’s official residence is the Grand Palace in Bangkok; however, the present king spends much of his time at the Chitralada Palace, or the Klai Kangwon Villa (“Palace Far from Worries”) in our beach resort city of Hua Hin. The king is assisted in his work and duties by the Private Secretary to the King of Thailand and the Privy Council of Thailand, in consultation with the head of the cabinet, the Prime Minister. Moreover the monarchy’s household and finances are managed by the Bureau of the Royal Household and the Crown Property Bureau respectively, these agencies are not considered part of the Thai government and all personnel are appointed by the king.

His Majesty the King has been the guiding light during his more than 60 years as King of Thailand.

His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej

T

he Monarchy of Thailand is also referred to as the King of Thailand or historically as the King of Siam. In Thai: it refers to the constitutional monarchy and monarch of the Kingdom of Thailand - formerly Siam. The King of Thailand is the head of state and head of the ruling Royal House of Chakri. The king’s power is highly considered and limited to being symbolic, but the institution commands the respect and reverence of the Thai people. The opinion and suggestions of the King are well respected.

The current monarch of Thailand is His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America, on 5 December 1927, as youngest son of Their Royal Highnesses Prince Mahidol of Songkla and the Princess Sri Nagarindra, the Princess Mother (formerly Miss Sangwal Talapat) and is the direct grandson of His Majesty King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and Queen Savang.

His Majesty the King had one older sister, Her Royal Highness Princess Galayani Vadhana of Naradhivas, and one older brother, His Majesty King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII). His Majesty became King of the Kingdom on Thailand on 9 June 1946. The Coronation Ceremony came later on 5 May 1950.

His Majesty continued his education in Switzerland, and returned to Thailand in 1951. While in Switzerland, he met the aristocratic Mom Rajawongse Sirikit Kitiyakara, who has since become HM Queen Sirikit.

King Bhumibol has reigned since 9 June 1946, making him the world’s longest reigning current monarch and the world’s longest serving head of state. Most of the king’s powers are exercised by his elected government in accordance with the Constitution of Thailand.

The king still retains many powers such as: being head of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, the prerogative of royal assent and the power of pardon. In addition, the King is a Buddhist and Defender of all Faiths.

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The Thai people, especially the rural Thais, needed someone who really cares just to be there as a comfort among chaos.

The King has been just that. Photos of the King and Queen adorn the walls of most homes in Thailand, for that reason.

When they feel bad, they look up to the King’s photo for comforting thoughts. When they are happy, they look up to the King’s photo to thank him for having been their King.

Her Majesty Queen Sirikit

Her Majesty Queen Sirikit was born Mom Rajawongse Sirikit Kitiyakara on 12 August 1932, daughter of His Serene Highness Prince Nakkhatra Mongkol of Chandaburi and Mom Luang Bua Kitiyakara.

The Royal marriage between Their Majesties the King and Queen took place on 28 April 1950 and Her Majesty The Queen was conferred the title of Somdetch Phra Nang Chao Sirikit Phra Baromma Rajini, official title of the Queens of Thailand or Sirikit the Region Queen.

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HERITAGE

The Children of The King His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn HRH the Crown Prince of Thailand was born on 28 July 1952, the only son of the King and Queen. His Royal Highness was invested the title of Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Thailand on 28 December 1972. He received his education at Kings Mead and Millfield Schools in Great Britain, and at the King’s School and the Royal Military College at Duntroon, Australia. He also received the Degree of Bachelor of Laws from Sukhothai Thammatirat University, Thailand.

Since he was young, he was inclined towards the life in the military, and has since shown himself to be a great Military Man. After his father, he has immersed himself in activities in promotion of the general welfare and economic betterment of his people as well as activities in promotion of public health through the Crown Prince Hospital and the Maha Vajiralongkorn Foundation. He has also represented his father on numerous State Visits abroad, far too many to list in just a page.

Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn was born Princess Sirindhorn Debaratanasuda on 2 April 1955, the third child of Their Majesties the King and Queen. She was created the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on 5 December 1977 (a royal rank equal to that of a crown prince, but is not a crown princess) for her tireless work in all sectors for the people.

She follows her father’s every footstep, and is a most beloved princess of the kingdom.

Her work is far too numerous to list here - a new website will need to be created just to list everything. She has set up many foundations, all for the betterment of the rural areas, notably the Sai Jai Thai Foundation.

Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn HRH Princess Chulabhorn is the youngest daughter of Their Majesties the King and Queen, born on 4 July 1957. She achieved a Bachelor of Science in Organic Chemistry from Kasetsart University, Bangkok, and a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Mahidol University, Bangkok. Her numerous positions include Professor of Organic Chemistry at Mahidol University, President of the Chulabhorn Foundation, Chairman of the Working Group on the Chemistry of Natural Products, and Chairman of the Foundation for Promotion Nature Conservation and Environmental Protection.

The princess was married to, and have since divorced Flight Lieutenant Virayudh Disyasarin, and they have two daughters,

Thanpuying Ubolratana Rajakanya Thanpuying Ubolratana was born HRH Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya on 5 April 1951, eldest child of Their Majesties the King and Queen. After finishing her education in the United States of America, she relinquished her royal title to marry an American commoner. She has since been bestowed royal decorations entitling her to use the title of “Thanpuying.” The Thai people though use the courtesy title of “Toolkramom Ying,” an informal way of addressing a “Chao Fa” in Thai. She has lived most of her life in the United States with her then husband, Peter Jensen, and their three children, After her divorce, the princess has moved back to Thailand, and has embarked on many activities for the betterment of the Thai people. One notable project is the “To Be Number One” project which deals with the drug problems in the kingdom.

In December 2004, the Thanpuying visited Phuket for an official function and a private holiday with her family, and witnessed first hand the Tsunami that devastated the South of Thailand. In the event, she lost her son, Khun Poom, to the waves. She has since set up the Khun Poom Foundation to help autistic children in Thailand.

The people of Thailand are still in need of a King who can guide the country into prosperity. The Thai Kingship was, and still is, seen as a strong pillar for the Thai people to hold on to, while there is still uncertainty in the political arena, even to this day. More than 60 years on, many can still remember His Majesty’s Oath of Succession to the Throne : “We will reign with righteousness for the benefit and happiness of the Siamese people.”

And what the King has said, he has done, and continues to do.

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Hua Hin Property ‘ Experience is key ’

You Have the Dream

We Have the Property

Buy • Sell • Rent Listings Required!

We speak English, Dutch, Thai, German, French, Russian & Swedish

Tel: Arnold +66(0)878068416 Nicha +66(0)868705783 APPR OACH M AGAZINE

Web: www.huahinpropertyagent.com Email: andy@huahinpropertyagent.com 21

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HUA HIN

WHERE TO GO? Action and Adventure In

Cha-am

TEST YOUR SKILLS AT ATV DRIVING, ARCHERY & PAINT BALL.

T

he Cha Am ATV Park has three tracks with sharp curves, tall speed breakers and few bamboo bridges to test your riding skills.

ATV stands for ALL TERRAIN VEHICLE which means vehicles that can cross any kind of ground. Cha-am ATV Park has 3 tracks. - See more at: http://www.cha-amatvpark. net/en/atv.php#sthash.teOSrxGq.dpuf Track A is for practicing, learning correct driving skills, test driving and learning intensive care controlling i.e. careful use of accelerator, reducing the speed, breaking or stopping, turning, balancing, learning road signs, warnings, and directions.

Track B is to have fun driving the ATV cars on adventurous, curving, uneven, and steep roads, which challenge your ability. To put to good use your skills gained from Track A and apply them to use on this track.

Track C was designed to simulate cross country driving which is not difficult or too tough for new drivers. You will have a lot of fun with this track and the experiences gained from tracks A and B can be put to good use on this track. – The ATV cars are available in 2 sizes; 90 cc. and 200 cc., with automatic gears, which are suitable for both new drivers and experienced drivers. The ATV cars are available in 2 sizes; 90 cc. and 200 cc., with automatic gears, which are suitable for both new drivers and experienced drivers. – See more at: www.cha-amatvpark.net Editor´s note : At the ATV track there is also an Archery and Paintball venue. All lots of fun, with good food and fair prices.

Cocktails & Easy listening

Whether you are after a romantic meal with a loved one

Whetheror you are after a romantic mealgetting with a loved one or for a large group of a large group of friends together a party, friends getting together for a party, Prime is the perfect choice.

Prime is the perfect choice.

The wide menu has been created to satisfy all tastes. The menu offers you everything from pasta, salad, desserts and European specialty dishes.

For booking table or other events please contact: Hagstedt N Anders ow O pen!

Email: prime_restaurant@hotmail.com the second Prime S t e a k h o u s e After the big succes of the first one, Prime Steakhouse just opened another Mobile: 089 028 3547 restaurant in Hua Hin.

Cocktail Bar i Hua Hin

The second Prime Steakhouse is located in centre of town in the same street as

Address: Thipurai City Hotel, the Hilton Hotel.

8/5-7 Soi Kanjanomai Poolsuk Rd., Hua Hin

I en klass för dig

For booking table or other events please contact:

Anders Hagstedt Email:

prime_restaurant@hotmail.com

Mobile: 089 028 3547

prime steakhouse

Phone:

prime steakhouse

(Thipuraicity hotel)

Phone:

032 532 507

Address: Thipurai City Hotel, 8/5-7 Soi Kanjanomai Poolsuk Rd.

(Hilton Street)

032 511 144

Address: ???????Naresdamri Rd. Hua Hin,

Hua Hin,Prachuabkirikhan 77110 Thailand

Prachuabkirikhan 77110 Thailand

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83/14 Phetkasem Road, Office 504, Hua Hin • H E A LT H

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Tel: +66 (0) 32 533 525 Mob: +66 (0) 83 3120 063 Email: touch-of-life@infomaniak.ch

Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand

• HOME

Tel./Fax: +66 (0) 32 532 783

• BUSINESS

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HUA HIN

WHERE TO GO?

CICADA MARKET Cicada Market is all about art, handmade crafts and good times.

With an open-air market concept, it brings together Hua Hin’s artistic talents and those who wear ‘freedom of expression’ on their sleeves. Besides the crafts market, you’ll also find an art gallery, beer garden and live music.

Open only on weekend evenings, the market is usually packed with weekenders from Bangkok. It is located on Phetkasem Road, about halfway between Hua Hin town and Khao Takiab.

HUA HIN NIGHT MARKET Situated in the Hua Hin centre between the Petchkasem Road and the railway line, the market basically comes to life from 18:30 onwards, when traders line the street with their stalls selling various apparel, crafts, art, CD’s, DVD’s and cheap, tasty food.

Hua Hin does have a superb selection of seafood restaurants that line the road that hosts the Night Market, drawing a lot of attention from visitors eager to feast on the quality dishes on offer.

SANTORINI WATER PARK CHA-AM Just opened, the Water Park has 3 pools with sun beds and umbrellas that can accommodate up to 180 visitors. There are also 3 slides, two specially designed for children. The Water Park is ideal to let kids play safely while you enjoy your coffee, drinks or food in the restaurant. The lifeguard and Water Park’s staff will make your stay very pleasant and safe.

There is a playground for kids where they can play and enjoy themselves in safety. The Water Park is available for any event and party in this unique environment where ‘water’ plays a key role and the facilities will surely surprise you. Find out for yourself.

Visit this unique Water Park resembling the beach of Perissa, Santorini, Greece in Thailand.

The Santorini Water Park is located on the highway to Bangkok just outside Cha Am. Can´t miss it.

KHAO TAKIAB ATTRACTIONS Khao Takiab Mountain delivers sensational panoramic views of the area as well as the rare experience of meeting out with hundreds of monkeys. Take a stroll along Khao Takiab Bay were you can stop for lunch and admire the glistening ocean and water sport enthusiasts making the most of it.

HUA HIN PALA-U WATERFALL TOUR The Pala-U Waterfall is part of the Kaeng Krachan National Park, about 60k m west of Hua-Hin near the Burmese border.

With 11 tiers, stages, it is one of the biggest waterfalls in Thailand.

The surrounding forest is thousands of years old and is filled with rare wild animals.

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HUA HIN

WHERE TO GO?

BLACK MOUNTAIN WATER PARK Black Mountain Water Park offers a fun-filled day for families and anyone needing a big splash. The park features nine different water slides, a wave pool, lazy river, beach pool, kids’ pool, and more – all set on a vast mountain-hugged landscape fronting a main-made lake just 10km north of Hua Hin. Most of the park is open spaces, with little pockets of trees and greenery dotting the landscape. The nine water slides are grouped together, so you don’t have to walk very far to try them all.

Some are built for speed, with long, narrow tubes that plunge straight down or in successions to the pool below, while others go round in circles before spitting you out in one big splash It’s located opposite the golf course, on a local road that passes through Wat Huay Mongkol and Baan Silapin.

KAENG KRACHAN NATIONAL PARK Just two hours’ drive from Bangkok, Kaeng Krachan is one of Thailand’s most bountiful and ecologically diverse national parks.

The park’s 2,915 sqm forest area consists of pristine rainforests, granite mountain ranges, waterfalls, caves and a reservoir lake, offering plenty of trekking and bird-watching opportunities.

The park features many wild as well as endangered animals, including black-and-yellow broadbills, barking deer, tapirs, Asian elephants, tigers, wild dogs and Asiatic leopards.

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ENVIRONMENT

Thailand,

A Botanic Paradise

by Dr. George Grossniklaus BOTANY AND

ORNITHOLOGY IS POPULAR KNOWN

AS PLANTS AND BIRDS SCIENCES. SO NO NEED TO MENTION THAT THAILAND IS THE ABSOLUTE PLANTS AND BIRDS PARADISE.

Merops Philippinus

D

r, George Grossniklaus from Swiss origin has dedicated his knowledge and experiences to the sciences of Thai Botany and Ornithology. The following articles and

studies will be published in a series of editorials in our Environment Section. We will start with the Birds of Thailand. We wont be able to cover all the bird species as there are over 950 different ones in Thailand. We will select a few we see every day.

Botany, also called plant science(s) or plant biology, is a discipline of biology and the science of plant life. The term “botany” is derived from the Ancient Greek word Botane meaning “pasture”, “grass”.

Ornithology is a branch of zoology that concerns the study of birds.

The word “ornithology” derives from the ancient Greek Ornis (“bird”) and Logos (“rationale” or “explanation”).

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ENVIRONMENT The Common Myna The Myna or Shepherds Starling (Acridotheres Tristis) is an originally Asian songbird of the family of starlings. As omnivores, which was originally native to open forests, the Myna proved synanthropic, which is extremely well adapted to urban ecosystems.

The number of Myna has increased so rapidly due to human influences, the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) declared Mynas in 2010 the world’s most dangerous neozoon and as the “third largest instigator of global biodiversity, agriculture and human interests”.

Characteristics This 25-centimeter-long bird is mainly brown in colour, head and chest are dark grey and the wing-bars, cream-coloured rump and rump are white, the beak, the bare skin around the eyes and strong legs yellow. Both sexes look alike.

Occurrence The Common Myna is originally from southern Asia from Afghanistan to India to Sri Lanka. He lives in savannahs, scrublands and fields, but also in populated urban areas.

Behaviour The Common Myna is a gregarious bird outside the breeding season who is looking at open places, in gardens or on the streets of fruits, seeds, insects, worms and food remains. In twilight large flocks gather to sleep in trees and call with gurgling, squeaking and clicking end tones. The bird can imitate human voices.

“

The Blue-Tailed Bee Eater is a colourful, slim bird, mainly green with a blue stain on the face and a black stripe above the eyes, a brown and yellow throat, a blue tail and a black beak.

”

Acridotheres Tristis

Reproduction Common Mynas mate for life. During the breeding season there is usually considerable competition for nesting sites.

Favoured locations are in the walls and ceilings of buildings, making these birds a nuisance to humans. Nests are also placed in tree hollows, which are used by native birds. Nests are quite messy and consist of a variety of materials. Leaves, grasses, feathers and assorted items of rubbish are common materials.

Violent battles often erupt between occupants of nesting sites and the couple that wish to evict them. Each partner grapples with its opposite number and contestants drop to the ground secured in each other’s claws. Bills are jabbed ruthlessly at the opponent.

Finally, the defeated couple leaves to search for another site.

The eggs are coloured bright turquoise blue. Two to five eggs are incubated by both parents for about two weeks. The young birds fledge after four to five weeks, but a long time still fed by their parents.

The Merops Philippinus The Blue-Tailed Bee Eater (Merops Philippinus) is a bird of the genus (Merops) and the family of bee-eaters (Meropidae). This specie is found in Southeast Asia.

He is a colourful, slim bird, mainly green with a blue stain on the face and a black stripe above the eyes, a brown and yellow throat, a blue tail and a black beak. This bird feeds mainly on insects, which he catches in flight. Bees, wasps and dragonflies. The insecst that are caught are beaten on the perch to kill and break the exoskeleton.This habit is seen in many other members of the coraciiform order. ( The Coraciiform are a group of usually colourful near passerine birds including the kingfishers, the Hoopoe, the bee eaters, the rollers, and the hornbills).

The Blue-tailed Bee eater likes to live in groups, it breeds in sub-tropical open country, farms and rice fields. These bee-eaters are gregarious, nesting colonially in sandy banks or open flat areas. They make a relatively long tunnel in which the 5 to 7 spherical white eggs are laid.

Both sexes take care of the eggs as well as feeding of the chicks and the call is similar to that of the European Bee-eater.

Merops Philippinus

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T R AV E L

Isaan

AN INTERESTING TOURIST DESTINATION WITH FRIENDLY PEOPLE.

I

saan, making up Thailand’s northeast region, is the country’s least visited tourist area. It’s also the poorest, with many making their living off the land. Much of the region is flat farming land. There are often trees scattered about that give a certain romantic feel to the landscape - it doesn’t feel too ‘harsh’ as there always seems to be a tree to find shade!

One explanation for the lack of tourists is that the region doesn’t have one, stand-out feature, like the north’s hill-tribes and extensive mountain ranges or the south’s white sand beaches and islands.

But there truly are many things to do and see and for those that do visit, it’s often thought their favourite area of Thailand.

Certainly myself, having spent more time here recently than I have previously, I feel drawn to the place and want to explore more. There are many national parks in the region, including Thailand’s most visited - Khao Yai National Park.

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There are waterfalls, caves, vast dams that seem more like seas, and mountains to venture to.

There are also Khmer temple ruins from when the Cambodian Khmer empire stretched to areas in Thailand. And bronze age and ‘dinosaur’! age archeological sites can be found in the region. The villages throughout Isaan are intriguing - many villagers will be surprised to see a foreigner (or ‘farang’ as the Thai’s love to call us!). You’re sure to find yourself having friendly conversations with people (maybe quite animated because of the probable language barrier!) as you stop to ask for directions.

I sometimes wonder whether this warmth for foreigners has, in part, to do with the fact that no country has occupied Thailand. I get more of a sense that this is how things should be between people. In neighbouring countries, I’ve sometimes found that it’s in the countryside, rather than the urban areas, where people are more likely to be suspicious of a curious foreigner on a motorbike.

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T R AV E L

There can be an understandable hurdle of distrust you need to overcome first. The towns in Isaan offer a nice base and some are an attraction in their own right. Quite a few foreigners have chosen laid-back Nong Khai and very livable Khon Kaen as their permanent home, among other towns (and villages) in the area.

For many, the very lack of tourists draws people to Isaan.

Areas like Phuket island swarm with tourists and what for many is the first place to visit is, for others a place to avoid!

Places to go in Isaan:

Of course Isaan, like the rest of Thailand, is affected by globalization. Traditional cultures and habits are being eroded, but surely more slowly here. But a farmer with mobile phone, thinking about what to watch on TV that night is something very normal in Thailand.

Cities to visit : Khon Kaen — Mittraphap Road (Rt 2) passes the edge of the town centre.

Loei — known for its numerous high hills, mountains and is one of Thailand’s vineyards.

Nakhon Phanom — border town with Laos along the Mekong Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) — the chaotic main city of Isaan Nong Khai — gateway to Vientiane and beautiful Mekong Valley surroundings.

Roi Et — home to the tallest standing Buddha image of the world, Phra Phuttha Rattana Mongkhon.

Surin — known for its annual elephant parade and Khmer temples.

Ubon Ratchathani — almost always shortened to simply “Ubon”.

Udon Thani — best known for the archaeological site Ban Chiang.

What’s a bit different in Isaan is you’ll walk streets and meet people who’s main aim isn’t financial when it comes to tourists - which is what it can, at times, feel like in places like Phuket and other beautiful islands. Isaan people, on the whole, appear to be just interested to see a foreigner!

A sweaty climb to the top of the cliffs afforded another of Isaan’s major attractions – stunning views across the Mekong River to the mountains of Laos. Much of our journey from north to south had taken me alongside the Mekong, mighty, beautiful and famously brown in colour. At Khong Jiam it is joined by the River Mun, which is blue, this spot being known as the Two-Colour River.

The distances between the sights of Isaan are long, but the scenery is so delightful, and each sleepy town so diverting, that getting from place to place becomes part of the joy, and you soon adjust your own pace to match. All of which made our arrival at Wat Phra That Phanom all the more surprising.

Northern Isaan - The great Mekong Valley, the national parks of Loei, Ban Chiang, Nong Khai, Wat Phra That Phanom, etc.

Central Isaan - Also known as the Chi River Basin, the highway from Bangkok ends here in Khon Kaen.

Southern Isaan - Centred around the chaotic Nakhon Ratchasima, the Mun River Basin is home to Khao YaiNational Park and the beautiful Khmer architecture of Phanom Rung and Phimai.

Other destinations: Khao Yai National Park — Thailand’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Phanom Rung Historical Park — beautiful Khmer temples and one of the top attractions in Isaan.

Phimai Historical Park — one of the most important Khmer architecture in Thailand.

How to get there: By car , train , bus and airplane – See your travel agent for more travel details.

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TIPS

THAI LEGAL

Buying Property in Thailand

CAN FOREIGNERS OWN LAND?

S

traight answer: If you are not a Thai Citizen, you can´t own land in Thailand. Foreigners cannot buy land in Thailand, only condominium units and apartments.

Foreigners cannot make up more than 40% of the condominium’s unit-owners.

However, a foreigner can buy a whole building, minus the land on which it is built. In recent years, minor changes in Thai law have allowed non-residents to explore the Thai real estate market.

A foreigner can have a 30-year renewable lease, under which the buyer registers at the Land Office an option to renew the lease contract indefinitely, for further 30-year periods.

Thailand has similar property laws and regulations as most western countries. What makes buying real estate in Thailand different and more complicated is that Thai land laws prohibit foreigners from owning land outright.

Buying property is generally done through a 30 year lease-hold contract on the land / plot. The buyer must at all times make sure that the land on which the house, houses, is divisible and is or can be registered at the land office! The lease-hold contract or “yellow book”, is merely a vehicle for foreigners to occupy property in Thailand for residential (or investment) purposes only.

The other alternative is to form a Thai private limited company in which the foreigner owns 49 % of the shares and the obligatory Thai partner, including the 4, again obligatory Thai shareholders, own 51%.

If the foreigner is nominated as the managing director of that company, he is also liable for any transactions taken through that company. Whilst the liabilities rest with the managing director, the company is still based on a majority Thai shares and thus votes. Moreover, even if the house belongs to the foreigner (it is permitted), the land is still owned by the company which in the end is Thai.

Can my lease agreement be extended after the 30 years lease is consumed?

If you have used a good and reliable real estate agent as well as a knowledgeable property lawyer, your contract will probably include a separate contract wherein the true owner of the land is under a promissory or contractual obligation to renew your lease for additional 30 year terms. The renewal of your lease terms should be written and agreed upon in a separate contract.

All Services Provided and Fluent in English Registered & Licensed

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Index

HUAHIN LEGAL

Living

mall

Soi 28

We recommend that any contract you make with any developer or house owner, you have the agreements read by an attorney, specialized in real estate business.

WANG

Pranburi

Address: 6/229 Petchakasem Rd., Soi Hua Hin 28, Hua Hin, Prachuabkririkhun 77110 Thailand Tel: +66 32-520-621 Mobile: +66(0) 85-1393620, +66(0) 89-5122420 Email: lawyerhuahin@hotmail.com Web: www.lawyerhuahin.com

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Web: www.queenvicbkk.com Email: info@queenvicbkk.com

FINANCIAL NEWS

Asian Currencies Sliding US Stock falling - Euro Re-Emerging ?

WHILST THE MONEY PRINTER US WEAKENS, THE EURO MARKET SLOWLY BUT SURELY REGAINS. What we are seeing at the moment in a way is Central Bankers versus the Markets.

As the markets are pushing up the rate expectations and Central Bankers trying to pour cold water on the moves, it is proving more difficult against a background of stronger economic data.

In the US markets brace for the Federal Reserve measure to start withdrawing support for the U.S. Economy.

European shares have held up better in recent weeks.

The 17-country euro zone ended an 18-month recession last quarter, growing 0.3 percent, and August business surveys this week are likely to show the modest recovery is slowly broadening out. FALLING TO a one-year low yesterday at 31.82, the Baht has suffered from depreciation against the US dollar along with most emerging-market currencies.

Compared with this year’s peak of 28.62 to the dollar, registered on April 19, the baht has fallen by 11.18 per cent.

Foreign investors are pulling money out of developing economies amid speculation that the US Federal Reserve will pare stimulus that has fuelled demand for emerging-market assets.

Investors pulled US$8.4 billion from developing-nation exchangetraded funds this year as economies from Indonesia to India weakened while the Fed is pulling out of its quantitative-easing programme. At press time, the Federal Open Market Committee’s minutes of its July meeting had not yet been published.

A Bloomberg survey of economists found that 65 per cent of respondents predicted the Fed would taper bond purchases next month.

Data showed that net-sells of Thai bonds this month have reached $530 million or nearly Bt16.9 billion. Meanwhile, after the singleday net-sell of Bt11.4 billion in Thai stocks on Tuesday and then Bt5.7 billion yesterday, year to date, foreign net-sells of Thai shares reached Bt106.7 billion.

As funds are flowing out from emerging markets, on top of that, Thailand’s growth concerns are adding downward pressure.

Thai Baht Versus US Dollar A day after the National Economic and Social Development Board announced the second-quarter economic data, the baht fell from 31.20 to 31.53. The currency dropped 0.5 per cent to 31.82 per dollar as of 3.41pm in Bangkok after touching 31.83 earlier, the weakest level since July 2012, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

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“

Ctibank Thailand, claims that capital outflows from Thailand should not be as bad as in India and Indonesia.

Thailand, RP in Better Shape

”

The Citibank Thailand, claims that outflows from Thailand should not be as bad as in India and Indonesia. Some markets such as Thailand and the Philippines are in a better shape to withstand external challenges and the situation should not be as bad as in 1997.Thailand’s foreign reserves are huge, while its financial sector is much stronger.

Elsewhere, the plunge for some currencies has been steep.

India’s ailing rupee hit a new record low beginning of August after the central bank’s plans to inject 80 billion rupees into financial markets failed to calm investor jitters. The rupee, the worstperforming Asian currency this year, fell to 64.60 to the dollar (2.02 per baht) in a late-afternoon trade, down from its previous all-time low of 64.13 reached earlier.

The Brazilian real has fallen by a similar amount, hitting 2.4282 to the dollar (7.34 to Bt100), a rate unseen since March 2009.

It dipped to the lowest level in four years, hurt by market expectations of higher US interest rates. The Brazilian currency closed at 2.4169 to the greenback, trading above the 2.4 mark for the first time since March 3, 2009 earlier this month.

The Turkish lira has fallen by around 10 per cent since a February peak. The central bank unexpectedly raised its overnight lending rate by 50 basis points to 7.75 per cent.

German 10-year government bond yields rose 1.3 basis points to 1.89 percent, having earlier hit their highest since March 2012 at 1.92 percent.

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FINANCIAL NEWS

The 5 Dumbest Things... ....YOU CAN DO IF YOU OWE TOO MUCH MONEY. If you feel like you’re in over your head with personal debt, especially credit card debt, you’re not alone. Millions of Earth inhabitants have at some time become overextended and in need of debt relief--in many cases, as a result of easy credit during tough economic times, luring consumer traps, gadget and simply over spending and sometimes that better car to show off.

Credit cards, medical bills, personal loans, and sky-high interest rates do not make a good financial mix. Credit card companies and banks make it easy to get loans which may be hard to pay back if other emergencies emerge.

The 5 strategies you may want to avoid: Here is some common sense advice that could help you avoid getting into the debt trap. And, if you’re already in over your head in debt, these guidelines could help give you a head-start to becoming debt free: 1.

Beware of simply paying the minimum amount each month on your credit cards. This will typically result in your overall debt growing and financial stress only increasing each month as interest rates will increase the pay back amount.

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2.

Avoid relying on friends and family to rescue you from debt, as this could put a strain on relationships with the most important people in your life. If they donate, the picture is different.

3.

Be careful before taking out a high-interest loan to take care of debts. When you’re in debt, often the worst thing you can do is take on additional debt that can often cause your situation from go from bad to worse.

4.

Explore all of your legal debt relief options your country, credit card company or bank before you consider bankruptcy (Personal Bankrupcy is possible in the US but blocks you for 4 years from getting credit anywhere. In Europe if you have a small company , bankruptcy may block you from starting another business unless all debt would have been paid regardless of the bankrupcy.

5.

When comparing your debt relief options, make sure you understand clearly exactly how much each debt relief option could save you, and how your credit could be affected.

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ENVIRONMENT

Environmental

Sustainability at Hua Hin Resorts

EVASON HUA HIN & ALEENTA IN PAKNAMPRAN

We reuse old bed sheets for wrapping cloth and laundry bags.

However, there are some things which we cannot dispose of safely in this area, for example batteries and any electronic waste.

These are often mixed with other rubbish, where they either end up being incinerated or buried. In either case, they release very toxic chemicals into the air and water.

The Evason has switched to rechargeable batteries to reduce electronic waste. Only wet garbage from the kitchen is used in animal husbandry purposes such as the pig raising farm. Organic waste from garden goes through recycling process by allowing it to decompose, after a couple months it turns into natural soil conditioner and fertilizer in the resort’s garden and vegetation projects. Only small amounts of waste is delivered to the municipal landfill.

FORERUNNERS ON ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY.

I

n recent years there has been a growing awareness around sustainability in the hospitality industry and its response to environmental and social issues, both locally and globally.

Evason and Aleenta guests are highly conscious of these concerns with high expectations for sustainable policies and practices in daily operations, water use reduction, waste management, energy use minimization, sustainable purchasing programs and carbon emission reductions.

Sustainability is at the core of our company’s vision and values and can be experienced at all of both resorts. Evason Hua Hin is no exception as it is at the forefront of these responsible practices.

The resort has adopted a new direction by combining organic gardening using permaculture principals and an on-site recycling program. An organic raised bed garden is being built using a combination of recycled materials.

Aleenta Hua Hin-Pranburi is very committed to the local community, to helping it and to working with it. This is a key reason to have a 16-acre farm, which produces fresh and organically grown fruits and vegetables that find their way to their kitchen to be prepared for guests. The community is also invited to eat and pick at the farm for free so they can too enjoy the healthy produce. In return Aleenta just asks them to stay a while and plant more seedlings that will in turn flourish for use by the next person.

The results may surprise you. The idea is to use the area as an educational tool for the local community to demonstrate that the concept of waste is essentially a question of perception.

They are experimenting building beds using old beer bottles, wine bottles, mud bricks and aluminium cans to grow a range of different organic vegetables (yard long beans, chillies, butter crunch, lolla rossa, oak leaf and cos lettuces as well as rocket and a range of herbs).

Among the herbs that are grown there year round, are rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley, Thai basil, Thai chilies, peppers / capsicums as well as seasonal fruits and vegetables such as dragon fruit, pineapple, lettuce and rocket for salads, countless fruit for juices and jams and also used to flavour their own farm flavoured vodkas and goats cheese fresh from their special pet and friend, Google the Goat.

In terms of Social Responsibility program, apart from activity conducted by the resort, some resorts also contribute money, manpower, and offer as much support as possible to local NGOs, government agency, local school, community to reach their goals.

So, rest assured if you feel like having another bottle of wine or a few more beers you will be contributing to a good cause. Another interesting aspect to the garden is the direct comparisons we can draw between conventional organic garden beds drawing its goodness from our home made compost and mulches and our state of the art hydroponic raft system fed by a nutrient solution.

A waste management practice is implemented to minimize the impacts of waste on the environment. The procedure includes reducing, re-using, re-cycling and disposing of waste appropriately.

Waste is systematically disposed by the appropriate channels.

Paper, glass, aluminium, plastic and metal is recycled.

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Evason and Aleenta employ local people , buy local produce and help local families with their businesses. With Evason Resort & Aleenta showing the way, others are on their heels serving our precious mother earth and ensuring that it is not plundered and become a waste belt.

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MOTORING

DOUBLE CABIN PICK UP TRUCKS

By GMoss

IT’S NOT A PICK UP, IT’S NOT A SUV, IT’S NOT A LIMOUSINE, IT’S A DC!

D

ouble Cabin tr ucks are getting more popular. Some of them are ver y luxurious, take any terrain and can haul

a load in the back. The following comparison is based on the most recent and popular models. popular models. Trucks are big but beat even some small car s when it comes to economy with their Diesel engines and take off like a rocket when stepped down on. With 200 hp, a Turbo Diesel gets long legs.

Road-ability has improved considerably and spor ty shock absorber s, stabilizer s, ABS and other electronic controlled devises keep you on track through difficult corner s or correct driver´s mistakes when it comes to over estimating your own abilities. From Super Stereo equipment to GPS screens, it is all there.

Prices and Specs are without guarantee and may differ from my latest research a dealer s do promotions to cope with a slight declining mar ket, manufacturer s may correct specs.

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MOTORING

TOYOTA Manufacturer Model Engine Economy Highway & Overland Price THB

= Toyota = Vigo Champ = 2500 cc ./120hp / 3600 rpm - Turbo Diesel 3000 cc. / 163 hp / 3400 rpm – Turbo Diesel = 11 - 16 Km/ liter ( 3.0 l. Turbo Diesel) = THB 678,000 - two wheel drive rear – MT THB 952,000 – four wheel drive – AT

MAZDA Manufacturer Model Engine

= Mazda = BT – 50 Di- Thunder Pro = 2499 cc. / 143 hp / 3500 rpm – Turbo Diesel 3000 cc./156hp/ 3200 rpm – Turbo Diesel Economy Highway & Overland = 12 – 15.5 Km / Liter Price THB = THB 589,000 – two wheel drive MT THB 988,000 Four wheel drive AT

Manufacturer Model Engine

= Mitsubishi = Triton 3,2.l. = 2500cc./ 140 hp. / 4000 rpm – Turbo Diesel 3200cc./ 165 hp. / 4000 rpm – Turbo diesel Transmission = 5 Speed Manual – 4 Speed Automatic Economy Highway & Overland = 11 -17 km / liter Price THB = THB 574,000 - 2 wheel drive MT Transmission THB 898,000 – 4 wheel drive AT

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MITSUBISHI

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MOTORING

ISUZU Manufacturer Model Engine Transmission Economy Price THB

= Isuzu = D- Max = 2500cc. / 85kw hp/ 3600rpm - Turbo Diesel 3000cc. /107kw hp/ 3600rpm - Turbo Diesel = 5 Speed Manual / 4 Speed Automatic = 10.3 – 15 km / liter = THB 700,000 Manufacturer Model Engine Transmission Economy Price THB

= Chevrolet = Colorado = 2500 cc. / 116 hp / 3,600 rpm Turbo Diesel 3000 cc. / 146 hp. / 3600 rpm Turbo Diesel = 5 Speed Manual / 4 Speed Automatic = 8.5 – 16.3 km / liter = THB 570,000 – 2 wheel drive Manual Transmission THB 794,000 – 4 wheel drive – Automatic Transmission

CHEVROLET Manufacturer Model Engine

= Ford Ranger & Wildtrak = Ranger = 2950 cc./ 156 hp. / 3200 rpm Turbo Diesel 3200cc. / 200 hp. / 3000 rpm Turbo Diesel Transmission = 5 speed Manual - 4 speed Automatic Economy Highway & Overland = 9.5 – 16.5 km / liter Price THB = THB 759,000 – 2 wheel rear drive – MT(Ranger) THB 1,099,000 – 4 wheel drive AT – (Wildtrak)

FORD

NISSAN Manufacturer Model Engine Transmission Economy Highway & Overland Price THB

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= Nissan = Navara Double Cab = 2500 cc. / 174 Hp / 4000 rpm - Turbo Diesel = 6 speed manual & 5 speed automatic = 8 – 15 km / liter. = THB 683,000 – 2 wheel rear drive MT THB 964,500 - 4 wheel drive depending on version. AT

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POOL VILLAS IN TOWN START FROM

2.98

MB

CONVENTIONAL ROOF

HUA HIN 102

Only 5 minutes to...

• • • • •

Tel: +66(0) 82-094-3000 +66(0) 81-921-3213 Web: www.milpoolvillas.com Email: sale@milford.co.th APPR OACH M AGAZINE

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THE BEACH HUA HIN TOWN MARKET VILLAGE BANGKOK HOSPITAL NIGHT MARKET

MOTORING

Super Sport Cars

ON OUR PERMANENT LIST OF MOST DESIRABLE VEHICLES

I

f your passion for performance and luxury autos cannot be stopped, and your McLaren F1 is becoming a bore along with the rest of your exotic cars, it might be time to check out “Car of the Decade, The Bugatti Veyron”. The most recent model, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport, has an estimated price tag of $2.3 million and, if that figure is even close to the ultimate price, will be the most expensive car in the world.

Bugatti Veyron Super Sport

The Bugatti Veyron Super Sport reached a Guinness World Records-certified top speed of 431 km/h or 268 mph Country of Origin Factory Top Speed Engine Price THB Imported with 287% Duty

= France VW owned = 431 kmh 0 – 100 2.5 seconds = V 16 engine (2 - V8 ) 1,200 hp 6000 rpm = THB 250 Million

McLaren F1

Only about 106 were produced between 1992 and 1998. It’s famed for its batwing doors.

Country of Origin Factory Top Speed Engine Price THB Imported with 287% Duty

= Great Britain McLaren = 384 kmh 0-100 kmh 3.2 seconds = V12 engine (BMW) 627 hp 7500 rpm = THB 100 Million

Koenigsegg CCX

Koenigsegg’s back, with the CCX. The predecessor of the Agera R debuted at the 2006 Geneva car show and was designed for the U.S. market.

Country of Origin Factory Top Speed Engine Price THB Imported with 287% Duty

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= Sweden Koenigsegg = 392 kmh 0–100 kmh 3.8 seconds = V8 engine 806 hp 7000 rpm = THB 50 Million

Porsche 977 GT2 RS

For decades, Porsche has embodied the amalgamation of luxury and performance. They have constantly refined and redefined their cars with time.

Equipped with their iconic coupe design, Porsche has successively carved its place in motor history.

Country of Origin Factory Top Speed Engine Price THB Imported with 287% Duty

= Germany Porsche = 352 kmh/ 0–100 kmh/ 3.0 seconds = Flat 6 Cyl/ 620 hp/ 6750 rpm = THB 35 Million

Ferrari 458 Italia

Planned to satisfy the expectations and ambitions of the most passionate fans: the 458 Italia is a concentrate of innovation and the result of Ferrari’s motorsport.

Country of Origin Factory Top Speed Engine Price THB Imported with 287% Duty

= Italy Ferrari = 325 kmh/ 0-100 kmh/ 3.4 seconds = V8/ 562 hp/ 9000 rpm = THB 26 Million

Noble M600

The Noble M600 is a hand-built British super car that goes mainly made of stainless steel and Carbon Fibre.

Country of Origin Factory Top Speed Engine Price THB Imported with 287% Duty

= UK Noble = 360 kmh/ 0 -100 kmh/ 3.2 seconds = V8/ 650 hp/ 6800 rpm = THB 30 Million

Lamborghini Aventador

Highly innovative and hugely powerful, the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 is at the apex of super sports car performance.

Country of Origin Factory Top Speed Engine Price THB Imported with 287% Duty

= Italy Lamborghini (VW owned) = 350 kmh/ 0 – 100 kmh/ 2.9 seconds = V12/ 700 bhp/ 8250 rpm = THB 35 Million

Volkswagen Beetle 1973

Most sold car of one model ever (21,529,464 made in total).

Highly desirable among connoisseurs. Hard to get.

Country of Origin Factory Top Speed Engine Price THB Imported with 287% Duty APPR OACH M AGAZINE

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= Germany, Brasil, Mexico, South Africa = 135 kmh 0 – 100 kmh 20 seconds = Flat 4 Cyl. 50 bhp 3400 rpm = THB 500,000 For a good basic car

KIDS

& E D U C AT I O N BOOK REVIEW Chasing Vermeer

Chasing Vermeer, by BLUE BALLIETT, illustrated by BRETT HELQUIST, Scholastic Inc., 244 Baht, paperback, ISBN: 978-0-439-37297-8 , 254 pages plus extras.

C

alder Pillay and Petra Andalee live in the hybrid community of Hyde Park, Chicago.

Calder is an only child with pockets full of yellow, plastic pentominoes.

Petra is the eldest child in a large, bustling family and aspires to be a famous writer. The two are brought together by a book that questions the conclusions that some things are just coincidences while around them, odd things are happening. When a Vermeer painting is stolen, Petra and Calder find themselves drawn deep into a mystery that is troubling the world and confusing authorities.

But something out there seems to be urging them on, can Petra and Calder find the missing masterpiece?

In Chasing Vermeer, Balliett does not limit her characters but breaks the moulds. The layers to this story create a labyrinth of ideas, themes and questions. For example: the benefits of taking risks in education, how true friends are often not quite who or what one may expect, how important it is to think as an individual, and the truths behind coincidences.

One of the major themes in this book is art, a subject that can be difficult for some. Balliett doesn’t always give answers but asks questions and comes to conclusions that may or may not be right. What is art?

Is it something that can be judged by anyone? Furthermore, Chasing Vermeer, challenges the assumptions and myths surrounding the Dutch painter, Johannes Vermeer’s, works. Chasing Vermeer is an excellent art mystery, Blue Balliett’s writing style is captivating with the perfect balance of action and gorgeous description.

Alongside the story are the charming illustrations by Brett Helquist that hold a coded message for readers to decipher. After finishing Chasing Vermeer, there is information and interviews about Balliett and Helquist as well as activities to keep readers busy long after the story comes to an end.

Readers aged 10 and up will adore plunging into this exciting novel. Chasing Vermeer is the first book in a trilogy, the sequel being, The Wright 3 and the final installment is, The Calder Game. Unfortunately, our particular copy has not been bound to last and we’ll no doubt be reaching for the sticky tape shortly so we can continue cherishing what lies within.

In This Section: Read. Watch.

The Sword of Stars

Zara’s

Puzzle

Listen.

Day 16 Radnor

Recipes

Fun

Page 45

Page 46

Page 48

Page 49

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& KIDS

Read. Watch. Listen.

CD REVIEW Best of Kokua Festival Jack Johnson and Friends 2010

T

here is nothing like live music, but a live recorded album comes pretty close. The Best of Kokua Festival was recorded in 2010 at the Kokua Festival, an annual event in Hawaii. The festival is hosted by singer, songwriter, guitarist, and environmentalist, Jack Johnson, to celebrate the preservation of Hawaii’s environment. Most of the performers have been a part of environmental causes in Hawaii and by purchasing this album, buyers will help these projects.

Jack Johnson had planned on being a pro-surfer and he had never picked up an instrument until he was 14. When he was 17, he competed in the Pipeline Masters in Hawaii, sponsored by Quiksilver. Johnson was the youngest ever finalist at the Pipeline, one of the most dangerous surfing events of the professional surfing tour.

A week later when Johnson was surfing in front of his home he crashed on a reef, knocked out his front teeth, struggled to swim ashore and ended up with 150 stitches. He recovered but was unable to return to professional surfing and instead he studied film making, creating the acclaimed surf films Thicker Than Water and The September Sessions, accompanying them with some of his own music. However his music career didn’t take off until he met G. Love who recorded his song, “Rodeo Clowns” and three other songs. Then Ben Harper’s producer, J.P. Plunier came across the demo tracks and helped lead Johnson to success in the music industry. Johnson has released 7 albums including a remix, and he made the soundtrack for the 2006 film, Curious George. On September 17, his new album From Here to Now to You will be released.

As for the music itself - The Best of Kokua Festival exudes Jack Johnson’s perceptive but breezy lyrics, mellow voice and ‘Jahwaiin’ music, a mix of traditional Hawaiian music and reggae. Surf-like as usual, listening to these songs conjures that feeling of sitting back on a surfboard during a quiet lull. The song selection is a good variety and includes a few of Jack Johnson’s songs and local Hawaiian songs.

If you are looking for a group of laid back, Hawaiian singers and musicians to listen to, then The Best of Kokua Festival is a great place to start.

The Best of Kokua Festival is appropriate for all ages.

MOVIE REVIEW

Thor, (PG) 2011

T

hor (Chris Hemsworth) has been chosen to be crowned as the next King of Asgard over his brother, Loki. But the ceremony is interrupted by the Frost Giants attempt to break-in from. Ignoring their father’s insistence to forgive and forget, Thor, Loki, and their friends set off to fight the Frost Giants with disastrous consequences. War is declared and Thor is banished to Earth.

Landing in New Mexico, America, Thor meets, a quirky scientist, Jane. With Jane and her friend’s help, Thor learns about life on Earth, love and true wisdom.

Although slightly clichéd, containing violence, destruction and a dab of drinking - Thor is funny and entertaining. Both main and supporting actors convey their characters convincingly. Thor’s storyline stems from Norse mythology and is cleverly combined with modern day Earth, a good deal of action and mystery. Thor is a movie teenagers and adults will equally enjoy.

The film’s denouement is well written but ends on a cliff-hanger. Fortunately the sequel, Thor: The Dark World, is to be released later this year.

Thor was directed by Kenneth Branagh.

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FICTION

The Sword of Star s Day 16 Radnor T h e S t o r y S o F a r … S i m o n a n d h i s m o t h e r, Vi o l e t , h a v e a d a p t e d t o s h i p l i f e . 7 d a y s a g o S i m o n s a w t h e m y s t e r i o u s i s l a n d a g a i n t h ro u g h o n e o f t h e s h i p ’s t e l e s c o p e s a n d r u s h e d t o t e l l C a p t a i n B l a k e …

“I

took in his surrounds. Green fields dotted with sheep were outspread across the hilly landscape. There was an outhouse, a chicken pen, a few barns, a well, and a large unlit bonfire. Upon closer examination they saw that smoke had engulfed the cottage and suddenly a short man came running out, coughing and waving his hands in front of his face. The four of them stopped still where they were. Aware that Radnor lived alone, Simon knew that it was him bent over spitting out what seemed to be ground up charcoal mixed with his saliva. When Radnor straightened up Simon decided he looked more like a harassed scarecrow than a wizard. He was short and wore blue robes patterned with faded images of rising flames and stained by what looked like purple goo and dried up cornflakes.

Upon his head was a frayed and floppy pointed hat that seemed ready to retire even if its owner was not.

His face beared a small, silvery grey goatee and thick eyebrows were hunched over his emerald green eyes.

“Greetings Radnor,” said Captain Blake. For the first time, Radnor noticed them all waiting there and he stared with disbelief. Then Radnor snapped, “Blake!

Get out! I told you that as long as you give shelter to that pompous twit Blithe Timbledown we are not cousins!”

“Radnor,” said Captain Blake calmly. “I have someone I would like you to meet, this is Simon,” Captain Blake gently pushed Simon forward for inspection. Radnor stepped towards Simon with wide eyes. Unsure of how to react, Simon nodded causing a curly lock of his sandy blonde hair to fall onto his face.

t has to be Coven Island, home to the witches,” said Captain Blake. “And you’re right – the telescopes are definitely trying to tell us something.” From who or what, they couldn’t determine, so Captain Blake gave the order for the Ship of Silver Stars to travel to an island east of the Ghost Peoples’ land where the Captain’s cousin, Radnor lived. “Radnor is a wizard, he might be able to tell us if the telescopes’ alliance is still with the ship,” said Captain Blake. “Also Simon, I think it’s a good idea for you to study navigation next, Os and Clara will teach you.”

After days and nights of staring at the skies, spotting landmarks and learning the art of navigation, they arrived. Only Simon, Captain Blake, Sir Blithe and Parry made the expedition into Radnor’s territory.

When they set off, Violet was pacing up and down the deck and Simon could tell that there was something on her mind the way she twirled a strand of her chestnut coloured hair. No one else seemed to mind that it was just the four of them and Simon understood why as they climbed steep sand dunes. It was only Simon’s second encounter with sand and it was thick in his hair, it poured into his clothes, filled his boots and stuck to his skin. On reaching the top of the dunes, they had to face overgrown bushland. Once they emerged out the other side, they trudged over a few hills until they spotted a small, stone cottage that looked like a steaming pot. They paused to share a flask of water, and Captain Blake said, “Blithe, make peace.” Sir Blithe nodded. They continued to the cottage and Simon

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FICTION

his hand slipping down to his sword. “You on the other hand are a lonely hermit and you have never achieved anything worth mentioning,” “That’s IT!” Radnor shouted and flung his palm forward sending jets of flames at Sir Blithe’s coat.

“Radnor,” Sir Blithe cried. “Put out these flames!”

“This is just ridiculous, put out the flames and Blithe can leave the cottage, the island,” said Captain Blake, not seeming at all concerned. “It’s too late,” Radnor grunted.

“I made a mistake, I thought that maybe you two had grown up enough that you could make up,” said Captain Blake. “Parry! Do something,” Sir Blithe snapped. Parry dashed out to the well, his dark ponytail bouncing on his back. “Do you know how long a wizard lives for?” Radnor asked Blake. Captain Blake rolled his eyes and muttered, “Too long,” “I have time for revenge,” said Radnor.

“Simon!” Sir Blithe said. Simon noticed the reflection of the flames in Sir Blithe’s indigo eyes and remembered the buckets of water. He scooped one up and dowsed Sir Blithe in its contents. In the space of just 3 seconds, the flames swelled and exploded, so that Sir Blithe was left standing wet, blackened with soot, and a hole in his coat. Radnor chuckled, looking at the empty bucket.

“The plain water was over there,” he explained, pointing to a different lot of buckets.

Sir Blithe tore his coat off. “I have had enough of your witchcraft, Radnor,” he yelled. Parry came back with a full bucket of well water and cringed. “Blithe, my brand of magic is far more refined than witchcraft,” Said Radnor.

“What could possibly be refined about flames? Fight me like a man - not a wizard!” said Sir Blithe.

“Great, let’s finish this once and for all.” Radnor threw off his hat, unveiling a bald spot on the back of his head, and then bunched his fists. “Radnor stop, this!

Blithe,” the Captain warned. “It takes two to-” “Tango?” said Violet. All inside the cottage turned to see Violet, Clara and Hilden on the pathway. Clara and Hilden stood puffing, sweating and worn out but Violet was smiling brighter than the midday sun.

Radnor unclenched his hands. “They didn’t tell me.” he murmured and forgot about Sir Blithe, walking forward to hug Violet like a long lost friend.

“Can we come in?” said Blake. Radnor pulled his gaze away from Simon and answered Captain Blake, “Oh... alright then, not exactly what I had in mind for today,” Then Radnor cleared the smoke with a flick of his wrists at the cottage, clearing the smoke. “Wow,” said Simon. Radnor smirked and Sir Blithe coughed loudly.

Radnor glared at him. To Simon Radnor said, “Take a seat,” “Right, thanks Sir.” said Simon.

“No, no, Sir is a vain title,” said Radnor casting a reproving look at Sir Blithe. “You can call me Radnor.”

Simon walked past an array of buckets of water and a couple of steaming cauldrons before reaching one of the wooden stools placed around a stone bench.

“So what brings you here?” Radnor asked taking a seat opposite Simon. Simon felt his cheeks turn red when he realised all of Radnor’s attention was on him alone.

“Well,” Simon stammered.

“Go on,” said the Captain.

“Captain Blake, Sir, er, Blithe, P-parry and me and ah, the crew, I think…,” Simon stammered, blushing even more. “We’re on this quest to, to find a-,” “Lost heirloom,” Captain Blake cut in.

“Right, an heirloom,” Simon repeated and thought to himself, Gees Simon, pull yourself together. “Anyway,” Simon continued. “I saw an image in two of the ship’s telescopes, the second time it was more vivid.

We think that the telescopes might be trying to tell us something, in fact it was, um, Sir Blithe, that gave me that idea,” Simon had hoped mentioning this fact might ease the clear animosity between Sir Blithe and Radnor, but it only made each more tense. “Well, the point is, we want to check that we can trust the telescopes and Parry thought maybe you could help us as you’re a wizard and know magic and...” Simon trailed off as Radnor stood up and walked over to the Captain. Radnor pushed Captain Blake back, not enough to hurt him, but enough to get a message across. “No,” he told Blake. “Please leave,” And that’s when Sir Blithe spoke up, “He’s just afraid he can’t do it,” The Captain rubbed his stubble.

Radnor turned to Sir Blithe. “Afraid? You think I’m afraid?”

“Why else would you say no?” said Sir Blithe. Radnor stepped back slightly and faced his left palm skywards, twisting his fingers as if solving an invisible Rubik’s cube. “Ever heard of honesty, Blithe?” said Radnor.

“Or are you so full of false pride-,” “At least I have reason to be proud,” said Sir Blithe,

To Be Continued…

By Zara Adcock.

Copyright © Zara Adcock 2013

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KIDS &

EDUC ATION

Zara’s

Recipes

Lime and Coconut Cake Challenge Rate: 2/5

This cake is easy to make and is suitable for any occasion.

Tip: Use organic ingredients where possible as it is tastier, better for our health and the earth. Each ingredient that I have labeled organic has previously been found in Hua Hin as organic. Biodynamic, unsprayed, chemical-free and wild-crafted, are also good choices.

Ingredients: ½ cup of a sweetener of your choice (see options* below) 2 organic free-range eggs ½ cup softened butter ½ cup organic coconut oil 1 cup organic yoghurt Grated rind of 4-5 limes (or 2 lemons) 1 ½ tbsp. lime juice (add up to 3 tbsp. for a more moist cake) 2 cups organic spelt flour 2 tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. sea salt

Sweetener Options:

CHALLENGE RATE SCALE: 1/5 = easy and quick 2/5= simple 3/5= simple but takes effort/time 4/5= challenging 5/5=difficult and/or time consuming

Method: Preheat oven to 160 degrees C fan (320 F) or 180 degrees C without fan (356 F).

Grease and line cake dish.

Whisk together sugar, eggs, coconut oil, butter, yoghurt and lime rind.

Sift and fold in flour, baking powder and sea salt.

Stir in lime juice.

Pour into prepared cake dish and bake for 45 minutes, or until an inserted skewer comes out clean.

Allow cake to sit in dish for 5 minutes then turn out onto wire-rack (or plate) to cool.

Optional Toppings Icing sugar to dust Thick cream to serve

OR

Maple syrup Organic honey Rice syrup Organic brown sugar

Icing Ingredients: 1-2 tbsp. lime juice 1 tsp. lime rind 1-2 tbsp. softened butter ¼ cup of icing sugar

Method: Combine lime rind and juice, butter, and icing sugar. Ice cake and allow to set. If needed, place cake in refrigerator.

Enjoy!

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EDUC ATION

FILL IN

WORDS

Fill in the spaces of this puzzle with the words listed here

2 Letter Words AT IN AM BE IF IT 3 Letter Words WET PIT OWN RAP LAP 4 Letter Words FORK LIME TAME NAIL FETA MALE LOSE FELT TRAP RICE GOES SAIL FAT 5 Letter Words TWIST APPLE MUSIC WAFER FLOOD 6 Letter Word RODENT 7 Letter Words GORILLA PLASTIC 8 Letter Words ELEPHANT NOTEPADS 9 Letter Word AMPLIFIER 10 Letter Words HELICOPTER SKATEBOARD

JOKES

ANAGRAMS

What do you call a penguin in the desert?

Lost. * What is the difference between a river and a jogger?

A river can run for miles and miles without leaving its bed.

Rearrange all of the letters in these words to create different words.

Example: lemon = melon

* A panda walks into a café. He orders a sandwich, eats it and then draws a gun and fires two shots in the air.

“Why did you do that?” asks the confused waiter, as the panda makes his way towards the exit. The panda produces a badly punctuated wildlife manual and tosses it over his shoulder to the waiter.

“I’m a panda,” he says at the door. “Look it up.”

The waiter turns to the relevant page of the manual and, sure enough, he finds an explanation:

1. Earth _ _ _ _ _ 2. Beard _ _ _ _ _ & _ _ _ _ _ 3. Cheater _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 4. Eat _ _ _ & _ _ _ 5. North _ _ _ _ _ For all answers see page 70

Panda. Large black and white bear-like mammal, native to China. Eats, shoots and leaves. * Puzzle Fun page by Zara Adcock Copyright © 2013 Zara Adcock

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& KIDS

PUZZLE FUN! PUZZLE FUN!

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R E S TA U R A N T

REVIEW

The Taste of

Vietnam

Coconut ice cream

by Ralph Ruijs

OUR LOVELY ROYAL BEACHTOWN OFFERS ALMOST ALL THE CUISINES IN THE WORLD, SO THE CHOICES ARE PLENTIFUL.

M

ekong Café is situated in Soi 88 next to shopping mall Market Village. The restaurant is from the same owners as the outstanding Coco 51 bistro in Soi 51 at the beach and Cantaloupe Island in our town centre.

Mekong Café is one of the only places in Hua Hin that offers authentic Vietnamese food and prides themselves in using only high quality fresh ingredients.

What some people may not know, is, that there is an elaborate philosophy behind the Vietnamese cuisine namely the Mahabhuta, which is the principle of the Asian Five Elements. Each dish has a distinctive flavour that reflects one or more of these elements.

These elements correspond with the five fundamental taste senses: spicy (metal), sour (wood), bitter (fire), salty (water) and sweet (Earth When we arrived at Mekong Café we were welcomed by the good English speaking staff and escorted to our table inside. There is also a spacious terrace outside with a bar with the same contemporary Asian ambiance as inside.

Kha Nom Beuang Yuan

We stuck to local beer, water and a glass of wine as anything will go together with Vietnamese Food.

To make the evening complete we had home-made coconut ice-cream served in a large coconut. As we are all huge fans of coconut ice cream, our expectations were high. The coconut ice cream is usually very crystallized, meaning they don’t use so much cream together with the coconut milk. However Mekong’s coconut ice cream is very creamy and has a rich flavour, which was exactly what we are looking for in ice cream.

We had a delicious dinner in a great ambiance. This restaurant is a welcome addition to our Royal Beach Town and is truly unique in its flavours and quality. If you are looking for something special, that is different from your everyday food, Mekong Café is the place to go!

There is a live blues and jazz band performing on weekends making this a very enjoyable dining experience.

We started our meal with two kinds of rolls; Fresh Spring Rolls and Imperial Rolls. The Fresh Spring Rolls is a very healthy dish and filled with assorted vegetables shredded chicken and shrimp.

Because the rolls are not fried, they taste very fresh and healthy which makes them ideal for starters or lunch.

Simply the Best in Town!

Tryour our Vietnamese, Vietnamese,Thai Thai Cuisine Cuisine && More...

More...

Try

Grilled Beef with betel leaf

Fresh Spring Rolls

The fried Imperial Rolls, look at first sight like Thai spring rolls, but these ones have a significant different taste. They are filled with minced shrimp, pork, taro, water chestnuts and onions.

For our next course we ordered a real Vietnamese classic; namely the Grilled Beef with betel leaf. This leaf is very popular in Vietnam and is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture. The grilled marinated beef was served with lemon grass and the grilled betel leaves give it a unique taste not found in Thai dishes.

Throughout the meal we noticed that the Vietnamese cuisine offers two completely different taste experiences of, in principle the same thing.

Before we had the spring rolls, one was fried and one was fresh. So then we got two kinds of crepes with each one prepared differently. The first one was the Kha Nom Beuang Yuan, which is a crispy thin crepe filling with minced pork and bean sprouts. The second one, which can be considered healthier because it is steamed, was the Khao Kreab Pak Mor. This steamed crepe is filled with minced pork and mushroom and was equally tasty as the crispy crepe. The main dish was Stir-fried Prawn with Honey & Ginger. This dish featured 2 of the 5 Elements used in the Vietnamese kitchen.The ginger gives the prawns a slight sour taste and the honey counteracts it, balancing the flavour to just right.

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Beautiful Pool Villas Bed: 3 Living Areas From: 131 sqm Bath: 2 Land Areas From: 456 sqm

Sales Price From: 4,900,000 THB

Hua Hin Property ‘ Experience is key ’

Tel: Arnold +66(0)878068416 Nicha +66(0)868705783

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Web: www.huahinpropertyagent.com Email: andy@huahinpropertyagent.com

SEPTEMBER

C U L I N A RY

Hotel & Restaurant

PROMOTIONS

Amari Mosaic – All day dining – International Breakfast – Thai Specialties – Kids Favourites Shoreline Beach Club – BBQ Beachside Lounge – Grill Favourites – Aqua – Pool Bar – Taste of Thailand – Thai Bites & Snacks – Noodle Soups – Fresh Fruit

Anantara Weekly Dining Recommendations : 18:30 – 22:30 Tuesday & Sunday - Rim Nam -– Curry Night – THB 799 Thursday - Beach Restaurant -– Thai Night Buffet – THB 899 Friday - Sai Thong -– Anantara Wine Dinner – THB 1,999 Saturday - Baan Thalia -– Beach BBQ Buffet – THB 1,050 Sunday – Beach & Pool Restaurant – Som Tam Tod – THB 320 Daily Resort Promotions : Ice Cool Beers by The Beach – 5 bottles for THB 599 Frozen Margaritas & Daiquiries – THB 250 per cocktail Lunchtime Specials – THB 350 / set – Pizza or Pasta – THB 349/set Thai Tapas – THB 249/set - Sala Siam – Check for specials : Thai Cooking Class etc.

TIP OF THE MONTH

Anantasila Thai Night – Fridays 18:30 – 21:30 Steak & Pasta Night – Saturdays 18:30 – 21:30 Sunday Salads – Salad and Antipasti Bar - 18:30 – 21:30 Children under the age of 12 pay half price.

Dusit Thani The Restaurant – International & Thai Cuisine – Daily

Coffee House

Coffee House at Soi 112 A new coffee place along Soi 112 just before the Floating Market on the left of Zab Wer Restaurant parking lot. The Place for your Cappuccinos, Lattes and Espresso with a Grappa.

San Marco – Mediterranean Favourites – All day Ban Benjaron – Royal Thai Cuisine – 18:00 – 22:00

Hilton THE MARKET - Theme Dinners : Thursday - Taste of Thailand Buffet THB 650.

Friday All-you-can-eat pizza, pasta and salad buffet THB 650 Saturday - International Barbeque buffet - THB 1,050 WHITE LOTUS - All-You-Can-Eat Dim Sum - Saturday, Sunday& public Holidays THB 520.

Chinese buffet dinner every Sunday - A fusion of Chinese, Thai and Mediterranean specialities.

THB 899 - Full Moon 5 Course Set Dinner – September 19 – THB 1,200 CHAY HAD – Burgers, Sandwiches and Nuggets – Special Combos.

Monday – Indian & Thai Curry Night - 6:30 pm– 10:00 pm – THB650 Wednesday - Wine Dinner - 5-course set dinner with a glass of wine (each course) for THB 1,550 BEER HOUSE PARTY CALENDAR - Every Friday - Cowboy Night with sexy cowgirls - Every Sunday: DJ Battle by DJ Richard and the Gang . Saturday Night Specials - 7 September Back to Schol Party – 14 September Pirate Party – 21 September Full Moon Party – 28 September The Army Party with Bartender Show.

THE CELLAR - Open daily from 12.00 pm - 10.00 pm – Spanish wines & Tapas THB 460.

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Editor´s Note: The above prices are mainly net per person without VAT(7%) or Service Charge (10%).

Children under the age of 6 years are usually free and youth from 6 – 12 pay half price.

However check with each outlet as different Resorts may have different options.

CU L I N ARY

Hilton (CONTINUED) SKY BAR Operating Hours 6.00 pm - 11.00 pm – with DJ – Funky Beats AQUA POOL BAR - Weekend Burger from 13.00 - 15.00 - flying burger, hot dog or a Satay - THB 360 MILESTONES - Enjoy our vibrant Filipino band playing from 8:30 pm until late daily except on Sunday. Pre-Dinner cocktails and Nightcaps THB 150 SOS - TUG BOAT BAR - Enjoy acoustic live music daily from 6.00 pm - 9.00 pm (except on Sunday) Catch live sports on the massive outdoor screen - Football, Golf and more draught beer for THB 120 nett and Standard spirits cocktails for THB 110 nett.

Hyatt Regency

Intercontinental

McFarland House - Afternoon Tea & Mango High Tea - Everyday from

Pirom Restaurant features authentic Thai cuisine.

2:00pm to 6:00 pm priced at Baht 300 / person & THB 500 / Couple.

Felicita Trattoria Style dining and wood fired oven Pizzas

Talay Thai – All you can eat Dinner of Thai Specialties – Mondays from

Azure Beach Grill All day dining with great views from the rooftop

6:30 – 10:30 PM – THB 800 / Person

The Lee La bar All day drinks and light snacks poolside

McFarland House - Sunday Brunch is available every Sunday from 11.30 – 15.00 hrs. The prices are Baht 1,500 net per person inclusive of a bottle of sparkling wine per two persons, home-made lemonade and

V-Villas

iced tea, Baht 1,300 net per person inclusive of home-made lemonade

Villazo Restaurant – Best 3 Course Restaurant – THB 1,750 ( with a glass

and iced tea and Baht 650 net for child 6 – 12 years old.

of wine THB 2,000)

Figs Restaurant invites guests to experience authentic home-made pasta dishes and pizzas from our Baht 250 dinner menu available every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:30pm to 10:30pm.

Zab Wer - Soi 112 All day breakfast – Lunch & Dinner – Isan and Western Food.

International Grand Buffet Dinner – Saturdays– THB 1500 / Person from 6:30 PM until 10:30 PM.

Western delicacies : 2 Pork Chops with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Lamb Shank with Potatoes of your choice.

Spaghetti Bolognese and Carbonara with Red Wine

Sheraton September & Promotions :

Specialty : Crab Curry with Steamed or Fried Rice and unequalled Chicken

October

with Cashew Nuts. Beer – Wine and Cocktails with your Dinner Enjoy your favourite Coffee at our newly created Coffee House

In Azia - Indian Food Festival Indian delicacies from Dehli –

Putharacsa

Lucknow – Mumbai – Punjab –

Ocean Side Beach Bar – Unique Mango Creations at Oceanside Beach

Hyderabad – Kashmir – Prices range from THB 140 ( Khatti Dal

Club and Bar: Mango Martini and Mango Mojito at THB 200 - Unlimited

) – THB 690 ( Nalli Gosht).

wine and tapas buffet at THB 599 per person from 5-7 pm daily - “Chill out

Salas - Pasta Ripiena (Stuffed Pasta Promotion) - Tortellini

weekend” chill out on our huge beach beds with the tunes of our resident

in Brodo THB 260 – Pansotti THB 360– Ravioli ai Gamberetti

DJ at Oceanside Beach Club Every Friday and Saturday, 8pm onwards.

THB 410 – Agnolotti di Coda di Manzo THB 520 – Fazoletti

Sundays BBQ Brunch from 12pm onwards at Oceanside Beach Club &

ai Frutta di Mare THB 570 – Ravioli di Ciocolato – THB 280

Restaurant, featuring live cooking stations, sumptuous seafood BBQ and

Luna Lana - Fresh Local Scallops – variations with mango salsa – Ob Cheese – Phla Hoy Shell – Prik thai Dum – Tom

relaxed sounds from our DJ at THB 999.

Yam sauce – Chu Chee Curry - THB 370

Special Mother´s Day Spa Promotion : This Mother’s day, treat your mother

Sundara - Asian Tapas – Chesse Tiki THB 260 – Cha Gio THB

to something truly unique “Favorite for Mom”. A 60 min Floral oil massages

220 - Chicken Yakitori THB 240 – Coriander Ginger Shrimp

plus extreme moisturizing Facial inclusive of a wellness present - per

THB 290 – Salmon Stick THB 270 – Mar Hor THB. 190.

person: THB 2,400 - per Couple: THB 4,000 - Valid from August 1 till August 31 2013

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GOLF

& SPORT GOLF NEWS AUGUST Solheim Cup 2013

US Amateur Championship

Matt Fitzpatrick

Englishman Matt Fitzpatrick beats Oliver Goss in the final.

Matt Fitzpatrick became the first Englishman to win the US Amateur Championship title since 1911 after beating Australia’s Oliver Goss 4 & 3 in the final at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts.

The 19-year-old led for the majority of the 36-hole playoff to earn himself a slice of history and a pathway into next season’s majors.

We look back at Europe’s record win over the United States in Colorado. Europe won the Solheim Cup on American soil for the first time with an 18-10 victory at Colorado Golf Club. Liselotte Neumann’s team were never behind and their final margin was a record for either side in the event.

Charley Hull, at 17 the youngest player in a Solheim Cup, combined with Jodi Ewart Shadoff on Saturday afternoon to send Europe on the way to a fourballs whitewash with a two-hole victory over Paula Creamer and Lexi Thompson.

She went out second in the singles and put the first point of the day on the board with a 5&4 demolition of Creamer, only being extended that far because the American holed from a bunker at the 13th.

Thailand Golf Championship 2013

Bangkok, 14 August, 2013: 2011 Masters Champion Charl Schwartzel will defend his Thailand Golf Championship crown at this year’s edition of Asia’s flagship tournament scheduled for 12 to 15 December, 2013 at the picturesque Amata Spring Country Club in Chonburi, just outside Bangkok.

Charl Schwartzel

The Thailand Golf Championship will once again see some of the world’s top golfers competing alongside the Asian

Tour’s best with significant world ranking points on offer. Inaugurated in 2011, the tournament has already firmly established itself as Thailand’s leading sports event and one of the biggest golf events in the region, attracting worldwide attention from media and spectators.

Thailand Golf Holidays Thailand golf packages, Thailand golf holidays, Hua Hin golf. Anyone planning a Thailand golf vacation will find this site full of useful information.

My personal Thailand golf experiences and views about Thailand golf vacations are all covered.

Golf course reviews, special Thailand golf playing tips, and holiday and vacation information along with expert knowledge will be shared. You will get maximum golf travel enjoyment from reading the Thailand golf zone.

Thailand expatriates and locals are welcome to post and comment so long as the contributions generally benefit Thailand golf travel.

In This Section: The Tiger Grawls Again

Hua Hin Golf

Hua Hin

Information

The Almighty “Pipeline” Waves

Page 56

Page 57

Page 58

Page 60

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Fishing Lodge

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GOLF &

SP ORT

The Tiger Growls Again BACK IN THE GAME AND ON TOP OF THE GAME.

W

ith 4 wins so far this season there should not be any doubt at all of who is the best. Here a report about Tiger and his swing coach Sean Foley.

Tiger Woods won for the fourth time this year at The Players Championship on Sunday. This is the fastest he’s ever gotten to four wins in a season. Woods has only teed it up seven times this year. If it weren’t for hitting the flagpoles on the fifteenth at the Masters, and the controversial drop that ensued, Woods might have had five wins.

“I’m getting better,” Woods said with a bit of false humility on Sunday when asked about his game. He’s more than just “getting better,” he’s become the best, once again. Most scary of all for the rest of the tour, he has a chance to be better than his best.

One of the biggest reasons Woods is back on top of golf is that he has finally clicked with new swing coach Sean Foley, less than three years after they started working together.

Foley, originally from Toronto, is a strange guy in the world of golf.

In 2010, before he started coaching Woods, Sports Illustrated described him as, “one of the most eclectic swing instructors on the PGA Tour — combining lessons from human kinetics, physics, psychology, philosophy, and hip-hop music.”

For Woods’ part, he was signing up for a new, unconventional coach when he was running out of time. He was 35, and he knew that it takes 2-3 years for a new swing to work. If Foley’s method failed, then Woods would be 38 years old and in search of a swing.

He needs four more majors to break Jack Nicklaus’ major record.

There aren’t a lot of 38-year-old pros without a swing who can win multiple majors.

Foley teaches a version of the swing concept called “stack and tilt.” In this method, a player keeps his weight centred, instead of shifting towards the right foot during the back swing. In the followthrough, the torso flexes, and the spine tilts.The idea is to keep the player balanced, simplifying the golf swing.

One the reasons Woods was attracted to stack and tilt is that it is easier on the body. Instead of shifting his weight from left to right, then lashing back into the ball and snapping his left knee, his lower body remains relatively calm. For a guy with multiple knee injuries, a less-taxing swing is a big deal.

Stack and tilt is a relatively new concept that only gained mainstream attention around 2007. Like any new concept, it’s controversial, and it’s attacked.

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The talking heads in golf thought Tiger was making a huge mistake going to Foley. When Woods made his first of three swing changes, it was with Harmon. Woods won the Masters by 12 strokes when he was 21, but he thought he could be better, so he had Harmon retool his swing.

Woods was right to change his swing. Between 2000 and 2002, Woods won 19 times on the PGA Tour, with six majors, including a stretch where he won four majors in a row; the so-called “Tiger Slam.” His game was so good that when he decided to drop Harmon, people were shocked. They thought that it was huge mistake. And they still do. People in golf talk about Woods’ Harmon swing as one of the greatest swings in the history of the game.

On the sixteenth hole at Masters in 2012, during his Friday round, Woods hit a shot out to the right, dropped his club, then kicked it. Golf is supposed to be a gentleman’s game, and Woods was making a fool of himself and the game in its cathedral, Augusta National.

This year he’s the favourite in any event he plays. Woods has figured out Foley’s concepts. He is now hitting the ball as well as anyone on the tour. He’s married that ball-striking with a super sharp short game. Inside of 100 yards, he’s deadly, once again.

And, his mental game is once again dominant. He knows where to miss his shots, and he can still sink the tough putt when he needs to.

Further,more Woods is healthy, so he can actually practice what Foley is teaching him. A lot of people failed to grasp that Woods couldn’t practice in 2011 because he was wearing a medical boot which set back his progress under Foley.

A generation of players who saw Woods working out did the same. And those players now have forgiving clubs that make their life easier. Woods beat those guys in four out of seven events this year. Woods will not be his best until he starts winning majors.

But, that’s just a matter of time. He’s putting it all together, and he’s scary good.

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SPO RT

Hua Hin Golf Information Play all of the Hua Hin golf courses and stay at a Hua Hin resort.

Hua Hin is the cradle of golf in Thailand. As one of Thailand’s oldest resorts, Hua Hin was discovered in the early 1920’s by King Rama VII and soon became a favorite of the Royal family and Thailand’s upper-class.

There are 8 golf courses located within 20 minutes of downtown Hua Hin, and another 5 golf courses easily reachable, located in the neighboring provinces. Black Mountain and Banyan are 2 examples of leading Hua Hin golf courses.

A few minutes drive down the same road is Imperial Lake View, with 36 holes and the site of the 2007 Thailand Open.

Palm Hills Golf Club is less than 10 minutes from Hua Hin, making it the closest championship course to town. There is also Majestic Creek Country Club and Milford Golf Club further south in between fertile farmlands of mango, sugar cane and Aloe Vera.

Little known Kaeng Krachan Country Club, while slightly further than the other Hua Hin golf courses is worth the drive into the mountains to experience some of Thailand’s most spectacular scenery and fauna.

Green fees and other costs are among the lowest in Thailand, while quality and service rival the best in Asia, if not the world.

The Royal Hua Hin Golf Club, opened in 1924, was Thailand’s first 18 hole golf course and many of its fairways are lined with huge trees and sculptured shrubs in shapes of animals and Thai mythological creatures. Black Mountain Golf Club is one of Hua Hin’s premier championship golf courses and hosted several PGA events (2009 & 2010 Black Mountain Masters and 2011 Royal Trophy). The 2009 “Best New Golf Course in Asia”, Banyan Golf Club caters to golfers seeking the highest standards of quality and service.

Hua Hin Golf Holiday Destination Information While Hua Hin still remains a royal and high society favorite, this traditional Thai resort has developed many golf courses over recent years, combining the new attractions of a modern golf holiday destination with local charm. Unlike some of Thailand’s other golf resorts, Hua Hin has avoided the hectic tourist development and the town maintains an old world character. It’s a place to golf, relax, take a stroll, eat great seafood and enjoy the unique experience of golfing in Thailand.

The Golf Courses can be found on our greater Hua Hin Map in APPROACH magazine.

Sea Pine just south of town is Hua Hin’s only links-style golf course.

Playing right along the Gulf of Thailand one is reminded of how golf was originally intended to be played. . A twenty minute drive west is Springfield Royal Country Club, a Jack Nicklaus course and one of the 10 best golf resorts in Asia.

Hua Hin Golf Holiday Destination Information: Golf Hotline: (daily from 09:00 - 18:00) +66 (0) 84 704 3344 or +66 (0) 2 714 8470

Power of Love International Church • Meet New Friends • Improve Your Life • Feel Involved • Fun Activities for Everyone

Services held each Sunday 10 am at The Hilton Resort & Spa Hua Hin. Tel: (English) Andrew 080-999-3603 (Thai) AU GU ST 57 Church @ Power of Love

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2013

Joanna 084-630-9925

(German) Irma 086-002-9691

GOLF &

SP ORT

The Almighty “Pipeline” Waves ONE OFTHE MOST EXITING SPORTS CHALLENGING THE ELEMENTS.

by Matt Adcock

S

Professional Swimming Trainer & Instructor

urfing is a surface water sport in which the wave rider, referred to as a “surfer”, rides on the forward face of a moving wave which is usually carrying the surfer towards the shore. Waves suitable for surfing are primarily found in the ocean, but can also be found in lakes or in rivers in the form of a standing wave or tidal bore.

However, surfers can also utilize man-made waves such as those from boat wakes and the waves created in artificial wave pools. Until this century, ‘Pipeline’ in Hawaii was the heaviest wave the world’s best surfers had to face each year, these days Teahupoo (pronounced ChoPoo) in Tahiti, is the wave they lose the most sleep over, with barrels thicker than anything they have ever seen.

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GOLF &

SPO RT

Teahupoo became a fixture in the WCT (world championship tour) in 1999 and many surfers at the time were not thrilled about it especially the following year in 2000 when the event was held only a week after a local surfer Briece Taerea was killed surfing this very break.

Later that year Laird Hamilton shocked the surfing world when he towed into what was hailed as the heaviest wave ever ridden at that time. Now Teahupoo has become a major destination for Big wave surfers, and body boarders, as well as for extreme Kite Boarders and Windsurfers.

Since then surfers have competed at Teahupoo every year and are usually greeted with swells ranging from 1 to 3 metres.

Every year spectators turn up and sit in the channel on small boats, jet skis, surfboards, canoe’s, or anything they can find that will float them to enjoy an up close view of the world’s best pulling into heavy left hand barrels.

In 2011 the Billabong pro Tahiti was held in surf that never got below 2 metres, and organisers even had to call a lay day because the swell got too big, in fact the Tahitian government declared a ‘Code red’ to all coastal communities in Tahiti.

It was on this day that the Big Wave surfers showed up, and were towed in waves 6 - 9 metres in size with dozens of surf photographers and film makers on the spot to capture it all, as well as being broadcast live via webcast on the Billabong pro Tahiti contest website.

This year the Billabong Pro Tahiti was completed on the 18th of August, just 4 days into the 10 day waiting period, in a solid 1.5 - 2 metre swell, with Adrian Buchan (Aus) winning the final over the 11 time world champion Kelly Slater (U.S.). This is the 2nd WCT event victory for Adrian Buchan in 8 years - “I still can’t believe it” said Adrian “it hasn’t sunk in yet” in the post final interview.

Kelly Slater is now at the top of points table and could go on to win a 12th world title, but with 4 events still remaining anything could happen and Mick Fanning (Aus) 2nd on the ladder is not far behind on points, with Joel Parkinson (Aus), the 2012 World Tour champion currently 3rd in the title race.

The next world tour event is at Trestles in California on the 15th of September and can be viewed live online with a link to the event site on www.aspworldtour.com the tour then moves to Europe for the Quicksilver pro France, and the Rip Curl pro Portugal, with the final event being the Pipeline Masters in Hawaii in early December.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Aspartame (APM) APM is an artificial, non-saccharide sweetener used as a sugar substitute in some foods and beverages. In the European Union, it is codified as E951. Aspartame is a methyl ester of the aspartic acid/phenylalanine dipeptide. It was first sold under the brand name NutraSweet; since 2009 it also has been sold under the brand name AminoSweet.

The Artificial Sweetener UNDISPUTED UNHEALTHY ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS IN DIET DRINKS.

T

he safety of aspartame has been the subject of several political and medical controversies, congressional hearings and Internet hoaxes since its initial approval for use in food products by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1981.

Coke has been dragged over the coals recently by critics and health experts who blame the present day obesity epidemic on the high sugar content of soda, especially Coca-Cola.

With decreasing sales, Coke was motivated to come up with some sort of creative way to convince Coke lovers all over that their diet soda is not only an effective weight management tool, but completely safe. Coca Cola did this with the introduction of Diet Coke.

Well cited independent research shows that phenylalanine, the main ingredient in aspartame, is a powerful neurotoxin.

The claim that aspartame can help you control your weight is nothing short of a joke; however, many people are under the false impression that somehow diet sodas are better for health than regular sugar-sweetened sodas. The diet beverage market has increased substantially over the past 25 years because of people who are convinced it is harmless.

Let’s take a look at what the Aspartame Consumer Safety Network Fact Sheet has to say about the cumulative side-effects that have been reported: “Headaches, nausea, vertigo, insomnia, numbness, blurred vision, blindness and other eye problems, memory loss, slurred speech, depression, personality changes, hyperactivity, stomach disorders, seizures, skin lesions, rashes, anxiety attacks, muscle cramping and joint pain, loss of energy, symptoms mimicking heart attacks, hearing loss and ear ringing, and loss or change of taste.”

Three independent studies have found that aspartame causes cancer. These studies, in our view, are superior to earlier, industrysponsored studies that found it did not cause cancer, because they used a larger pool of subjects and a more sensitive protocol.”

Additionally, diet soda has been linked to kidney problems.

An eleven year study at Harvard Medical School concluded that the risk of kidney function decline was attributable to consuming just 2 diet sodas per day. Aspartame is now genetically modified, making things really scary, and has been implicated once again with brain holes and issues with reproduction.

This article is a courtesy of the UN Health Organization – Harmful Food & Drinks

According to the FDA, who claims that aspartame is safe, over 85% of all complaints received are related to aspartame.

Walai Spa Special Menu

SPECIAL PROMOTION THIS MONTH

Foot Massage Foot Spa Massage Oil Massage Aroma Massage Hot Sugar Scrub Pure Coffee Scrub Hot Stone Therapy Bamboo Massage

Face and Scrub Treatment

Buy 1, Get 1 Free!

Please Make Appointment.

Open: 9 AM - 10 PM Daily

Chivasom Hotel <-- Hua Hin

Tel: 082-251-0013

Address: 121/8 Khao-Takiab, Hua Hin

Email: walaispa_hauhin65@yahoo.com

PrachuabKhirikhan 77110 082 2510013

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1 Hour - 250 THB 1 Hour - 350 THB 1 Hour - 390 THB 1 Hour - 490 THB 1 Hour - 700 THB 1 Hour - 700 THB 2 Hours- 1500 THB 2 Hours- 1200 THB

Cicada Market

Petchakasem Road Pr an bu r

i --

>

Baan Sra Suan Kao Takiab-->

Walai Spa

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Medical Tourism

In Thailand

By GMoss

DR. SOMARCH WOGNTONG OF BANGKOK HOSPITAL IN HUA HIN SHEDS LIGHT ON MEDICAL TOURISM.

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former graduate and professor of the school of medicine at the University Of Tokyo, Japan and a master of public health from the Harvard University in the USA, Dr. Somarch, in charge of the Bangkok Hospital in Hua Hin. At a presentation before SKAL members and vistors, Dr. Somarch shed some light on medical services and development in Hua Hin. As Thailand is rapidly developing their medical care programmes, of which and in some cases, they are ahead of any development in the USA or Europe, where implemented systems or innovations are slower to change, medical travellers will find Thailand a safe and trustworthy destination to help them with their medical problems.

With costs, both for private patients or their international insurance coverage, being importantly lower than Europe, the USA or the Middle east,Thailand is a perfect destination to save on medical care.

For example, a hip replacement costs approx. THB 360,000 in Thailand.

THB 1,300,000 in the USA. In Europe with it´s social security and Health Care programmes, these costs are taken over by insurance companies.

There are known cases in which European insurance companies agree on treatment in Thailand, which saves them money as well. Cosmetic surgery, of course is exempted from this.

However , a “Facelift” in Thailand would set you back THB 200,000 whereas you would need to put down at least THB 300,000, unless you would go to Michael Douglas´s surgeon charging you a Hollywood fee.

International Patients expect a high level of clinical competence - using stateof-the-art medical care - delivered by ethical, dedicated professionals in a kind, gentle, compassionate manner - respectful of their beliefs and needs.

Patients beyond borders look for quality healthcare with an appropriate value for money.

The combination of first class medical care and facilities, five star hotels, serviced apartments, spas, wellness clinics and tourist attractions has contributed to Thailand´s popularity.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Dr. Somarch In all of Thailand there are 344 Private hospitals with 35,086 beds.

In Bangkok alone 103 private hospitals with 15,000 beds.

The development of medical care in Hua Hin has taken some giant steps with the opening of the Bangkok Hospital, the presence of the Hua Hin Hospital and the upgrading of services at the San Paolo Hospital .

Being a favoured tourist holiday destination by high-end visitors and a long history of winter vacation, easy access to first class and boutique hotels & resorts, Hua Hin is universally perfect for professional aid with health problems.

A pleasant place for family holidays, no political manifestations and selectable services, Hua Hin can offer the highest quality care Check-ups with leisure programs for wellness.

General, Orthopaedic & Cosmetic Surgery with a comprehensive Rehabilitation programme is offered. Bangkok Hospital for example employs 35 full time doctors. 65 specialists can be recruited from Bangkok upon emergencies. 8 of the physicians serving in Hua Hin are American Board certified.

Dr. Somarch ended his informative address by saying: “There are no global frontiers to first class healthcare. More people than ever will travel to obtain quality medical services that cost less and where it is convenient and safe to travel and stay.

Note: The Bangkok hospital will be happy to answer any questions with regard to their medical, emergency and rehabilitation services.

Call : +66 (32) 616 800 – also on Skype.Website : Website: www.bangkokhospital.com/huahin

Elephant Property Hua Hin

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Please contact us if you wish to list your property for rent or sale.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Reducing Stress & Anxiety ESSENTIAL OILS TO ALLEVIATE STRESS.

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tress is a part of life, and some amount of stress is healthy and essential. However, when we let stress overtake us, our health can begin to deteriorate. According to Janice Kiecolt-Glaser of Ohio State University, stress can wear on our immune systems, because it inherently creates its own immune response. She explains that stress causes the body to release pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are immune factors that trigger the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s response against an infection.

In the case of chronic stress, cytokines are continuously produced for extended periods of time, which can lead to a diminished ability to fight infection and heal wounds by the immune system, as well as chronic inflammation.

Chronic inflammation has been linked to an increased risk of osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and autoimmune diseases.

One natural and soothing way to alleviate stress is to harness the power of essential oils. Essential oils provide the healing properties of the plants they are extracted from, in a highly concentrated form. They can be applied to pressure points, used in therapeutic massage, and for aromatherapy.

The science behind aromatherapy is simple. There are 50 million smell receptors inside the nasal cavity, which connect to the limbic system of the brain, the area that governs emotions, memory and sexual arousal.

The aromas of essential oils directly stimulate the limbic system.

Lavender

Orange

Roman Chamomile

Five of the Best Essential Oils Used to Combat Stress are:

Ylang Ylang

Orange

Several studies have linked orange and sweet orange essential oils to stress-relieving effects. A study performed at Mei University in Japan found that when patients who were taking antidepressants were given orange oil, they were able to significantly reduce the amount of antidepressants that they took.

Lavender

Lavender is an extremely versatile oil, said to be able to provide balance to any personality type. It has relaxing and stabilizing properties â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both physical and emotional. A 1998 study found that lavender essential oil made volunteers more relaxed and more alert simultaneously.

Another study, performed in Brazil, tested the aroma therapeutic properties of sweet orange oil. Participants spent five minutes breathing either sweet orange essential oil, tea tree oil, or water, and were subsequently stress tested during scans of their vital signs.

Those who had inhaled the sweet orange oil showed the least anxiety during the test, even after the test was over.

After applying orange essential oil to uncovered skin, avoid direct sunlight to these areas for 12 hours.

In this study, EEG scans were taken after the subjects inhaled the aroma of lavender oil, and the patterns researchers read in their scans mimicked those of drowsiness. However, the subjects were able to solve mathematical problems faster and with more accuracy.

Lavender is one of the gentlest essential oils, and a couple of drops can be applied directly to pressure points, although you may want to combine it with a base oil, such as organic, cold pressed coconut oil, or massage over larger areas of the skin.

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Cedarwood

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Roman Chamomile

Chamomile tea is a famous nerve-soother. In its essential oil form, benefits are more concentrated, and therefore more potent.

Chamomile has calming properties and may help reduce stress and anxiety, and help you let go of negative emotions.

While both Roman and German chamomile essential oils are linked to calming nerves, Roman chamomile has stronger links to supporting optimal mental well being, including the reduction of paranoia, anxiety and anger.

Be sure to mix Roman chamomile essential oil with a base oil, as it can irritate the skin when undiluted.

Cedarwood

Cedarwood essential oil is known for possessing calming properties.

It was traditionally used by Native Americans during ceremonies to communicate with the spirits. Cedarwood has been linked to stimulating the limbic system of the brain, as well as the pineal gland, which is responsible for the release of melatonin, the hormone which signals to your body that it is time to sleep.

Some clinical studies have found that cedarwood offered positive benefits to children suffering from ADD and ADHD. If you are pregnant, be sure to consult a health professional before using cedarwood essential oil. For use on children, also see a health professional, just to be sure that the oil is safe for your child’s individual health.

Ylang Ylang

This essential oil may cause some skin sensitivity with repeated use, so make sure to mix only a few drops with a base oil before applying, to minimize this potential effect.

How to Use

First of all, be sure to use only therapeutic grade, 100 percent pure, organic essential oils. Many imposters exist, and contain little more than chemical fragrances.

For topical application, add approximately three parts of a base oil, such as organic, cold pressed coconut oil, to one part essential oil.

Rub the mixture between your palms, and apply to your wrists, temples and the back of your neck.

Lavender is an exception to the ‘mixing’ rule, as it is very gentle, and a couple of drops can be applied directly to pressure points.

These oils also work great in massage. Use an essential oil, combined with a base oil, for shoulder, neck, back and foot massage.

Essential oils can also be combined, so feel free to experiment with a mixture that works best for you.

To enjoy the aromatherapy properties of these oils, they can be used in a diffuser, or, after rubbing the mixture between your palms, bring your palms up to your face and take a few slow, deep breaths, letting the aromas enter your airways. Do this with your eyes closed, in a comfortable position, and envision your stress melting away.

Using the above-mentioned essential oils is highly beneficial – both topically and as aromatherapy – prior to meditation.

Ylang ylang essential oil has both calming and stimulating properties, and has traditionally been used as an aphrodisiac. It has been linked to balancing stress and anger levels. Ylang ylang’s aroma therapeutic properties have been associated with stimulating circulation and lowering blood pressure.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Nestle CEO, Peter Brabeck,

Water Not a Public Right?

CEO OF NESTLE ON GMF AND EARTH´S WATER SUPPLY.

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he CEO of Nestle, Peter Brabeck, has been caught on video saying he believes water should not be a public right, that instead it should be something only the wealthy have access to. As Nestle is the 27th largest company in the world and does over $65 billion in business, the attitudes of this corporate head are very frightening. Here’s a collection of some of the most disturbing quotes from this video.

Water — which comes out of the earth freely — is necessary for the survival of every creature and plant on the planet. By making water a commodity — something only accessible from a big corporation like Mr. Brabeck dreams — our society will move into a dystopia where corporations decide who gets to live and who gets to die by rationing the most plentiful resource on the planet.

Mr. Brabeck on Organic Food

(Quote) “I’m still of the opinion that the biggest social responsibility of any CEO is to maintain and ensure the successful and profitable future of his enterprise.”

Notice how Brabeck said the most important social responsibility isn’t to provide for the less fortunate or reduce environmental impact so future generations can enjoy this planet. No, he said the most important thing a CEO can do is selfishly look out for the survival of his own company.

Mr. Brabeck on Corporate Responsibility

A good example is the organic movement. “Organic is now best” it was claimed and suddenly ” but organic is not best”………..After 15 years of eating GM food products in the USA, not one single case of illness from eating them has occurred to date. And in spite of this we’re all so uneasy about it in Europe that something might happen to us.

Organic isn’t best? And there’s been no health problems associated with eating their GMO food?

With this statement, Brabeck is laughably either out of touch, in denial, or being dishonest. More and more studies are finding just how dangerous and even deadly GMO food is. A lot of the GMO food that’s causing cancer, Parkinson’s digestive problems and other serious health issues is made by Nestle, Brabeck’s company.

Brabeck’s Not Alone in His Elitist Views

The sad thing is, this leaked video shows Brabeck expressing the same sentiments hundreds of other CEOs share. You can watch the entire frightening thing in the video below: Editor´s note: Every one of us has the right of private opinion, so does Mr. Brabeck. The dangerous part however is that some opinions launched by people earning a fortune every month again on the backs of the uninformed, innocent people like us all, endanger our lives , make us sick, supported by the chemical companies providing us with endless solutions to our diseases who block certain other cure development for the sake of selling their rack medicines, highly profitable medications costing them pennies whilst selling them for sometimes unaffordable amounts ( cancer and HIV medication as an example).

Let´s give Nestle the benefit of the doubt and pretend the majority of that company has a different opinion. Here are some of the products Nestle markets. Some may not be on the Thai market.

Mr. Brabeck on the Balance Between Man and Nature

(Quote)Today people believe that everything that comes from nature is good. That represents a huge change because until recently we always learned that nature could be pitiless. Man is now in the position to provide some balance to nature. But in spite of this we have something approaching a shibboleth( believing or a believe strongly held) that everything that comes from nature is good.

Mr. Brabeck on Water as a Public Right

(Quote) “ Water is of course the most important raw material we have today in the world. It’s a question of whether we should privatize the normal water supply for the population…… There are two different opinions on the matter. The one opinion, which I think is extreme, is represented by the NGOs, who bang on about declaring water a public right.That means as a human being you should have a right to water.

That’s an extreme solution. The other view says water is a foodstuff like any other. Like any other foodstuff it should have a market better.

(Quote) “Personally I think it’s better to give foodstuff a market value . . .”

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Arrowhead - Aqua Spring - Calistoga - Deer Park - Deep Spring - Ice Mountain – Glaciar – Klosterquelle - Nestle Wellness - Nestle Pure Life – Ozarka - Poland Spring – Perrier - S. PellegrinoS. Barnardo - Water Line – Zephyrhills – Mineral Water – Ice Cream.

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Reaching out to the remote and underprivileged school of Neun Payom in Bueng Nakorn Village, Prachuap Khiri Khan province.

SKÅL Hua Hin & Cha-am

Charity Golf Tournament Black Mountain, Sunday 29th September 2013

• Registration is from 10:00 hrs - 11:30 hrs • Shotgun Start at 12:30 hrs • Wine Dinner at the clubhouse starts at 18:30 hrs • Playing format: Individual Stableford - amateur golfers only.

Lots of great golf prizes as well as Lucky Draw prizes to be won.

• The event entry fee is THB 3,500 per individual payable to

Mr. Peter Kirketerp (SKÅL Treasurer), at Mondo Vino Co., Ltd, by cash or personal cheque by 20th September 2013.

• Entry includes Green Fee, Caddy, Event T-Shirt, Prosecco refreshment during

tournament and prize-giving Wine Dinner. Golf carts available at THB 600 per cart.

• Non-playing guests are invited to attend the Wine Dinner (Baht 1,200 per guest).

• Special hotel room rate discounts of 50% are available at SKÅL Member hotels, for travelling participants and tournament visitors . For details, please refer to the SKÅL Hua Hin & Cha-am website : www.skalhuahinchaam.com

Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Mr. Sammy Carolus at: Sammy.carolus@hyatt.com or Mr. Peter Kirketerp at : peter@mondovino.co.th APPR OACH M AGAZINE

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REAL ESTATE

Office Space Demand ASIA GROWTH DEMANDS INCREASED OFFICE SPACE IN 2013.

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n increasingly regionally connected Chinese economy and the knock on effects from Japanese stimulus measures are likely to boost activity across the region, with domestic occupiers leading demand for prime office space.

The Asia-Pacific Prime Office Index increased 1.7% over the quarter, down slightly from the 2.0% recorded in the previous quarter.

The Asia-Pacific vacancy rate increased marginally to 12.0% as positive net absorption across most markets was met with significant new supply.

Tokyo led the way in terms of rental growth, where Grade A office rents increased over the quarter by nearly 16%. Although still sitting 39% below the Q1 2008 peak, we have continued to see prime centrally-located office space outperform the wider Tokyo market. The unprecedented stimulus measures recently introduced by the Bank of Japan are likely to lead to a bump in growth over the next two years, impacting demand for office space and increasing the prospects of further prime rental growth.

In China, despite a drop in growth levels in Q1 2013, the movement to more domestic demand in the country is likely to lead to more stable but lower growth rates over the coming years.

The Beijing office market remains tight, although has likely passed its mid-term peak, while the Shanghai market is likely to continue to become more tenant friendly as the city welcomes nearly 2.5 million sq. m of new supply over the next three years.

In Southeast Asia, prime office rents fell for the 7th successive quarter in Singapore, while the Vietnamese markets have likely hit the bottom of the cycle after over four years of declining prime rents. The Kuala Lumpur prime office market remained steady, with a possible boost in demand following the election tempered by significant new supply. Jakarta continued to see the strongest prime office rental growth across the whole region, while prime Bangkok office rents showed steady growth of 2.6%.

Mr. Marcus Burtenshaw, Executive Director, Head of Commercial Agency, Knight Frank Thailand added that “In Bangkok we have certainly seen demand for office space increase, especially since the elections of 2011 and it has been the Grade A segment in particular that has seen the greatest improvement”. The overall office occupancy rate in Bangkok in Q1 increased of 2.88% Y-o-Y and 0.45% Q-o-Q 88.02%. “We continue to see the most demand for buildings located in the Central Business District (CBD) and for properties located within walking distance of mass transit lines.

Grade A buildings have been especially sought after as occupancies increased by a substantial 6.2% Year on Year, up 0.99% from last quarter.

This has pushed average market rents up by 3.96% Year on Year, and whilst growth was seen in every sector, grade A buildings saw the greatest change, a 5.76% year on year increase as landlords responded to growing demand, making this the greatest year on year growth that we have recorded. Mr. Burtenshaw pointed out that Bangkok tenants should expect and plan for office rents to continue rising, particularly for Grade A space in the central business district as high occupancy rates with robust local and regional market demand is likely to drive growth throughout 2013.

Courtesy of Night Frank Bangkok.

More than 3,560 condominium units had been built in Cha Am by the end of last year, and more are scheduled to launch in 2013.

Hua Hin, on the other hand, is still considered the best location for a more diverse vacation experience given the greater range of facilities such as hotels, entertainment, residential and retail development.

The Hua Hin, Cha-am Residential Market

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he property market in Hua Hin, Cha Am and Pranburi continues to grow, fuelled mainly by people from Bangkok looking for a second home or weekend condominium.

Cha Am is increasingly a focus for developers, partly because it is perceived as quieter and more convenient for Bangkok residents than Hua Hin, and partly due to the rising prices and limited availability of coast land in Hua Hin. APPR OACH M AGAZINE

Condominiums are by far the most popular type of property being developed, comprising more than 78% of the newly-launched units in 2012. However, last year also saw approximately 1,850 landed development units launched in the three towns, the highest figure for the past ten years. Most of these houses are in the mid to lowend of the housing market, with prices below THB4 million.

The average take-up rate in the Cha Am, Hua Hin and Pranburi areas is approximately 58% for landed development projects and 55% for condominiums. Most people buying houses or condominiums in these areas are Thai, with the number of foreign customers falling considerably in recent years.

Courtesy of www.colliers.co.th

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The New Presi denti al Suit at Hyatt Rege ncy

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CL ASS IFIE D S SERVICES

CAR FOR SALE

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The Power of Love Church are looking for people to volunteer for many positions, help in the office, office cleaning, youth group leader, help setting up the church, we have many things we need help with. Please helph us if you can.

Please email: andrewstocks@hotmail.com or call Andrew on Skype (Free). Come and Help Us and Become Part of Our Family!

Catamaran For Sale

‘Secondwind’ is a 34 ft motor sailing catamaran; ideal for days out on the ocean with friends and family. It is also the perfect boat to operate as a day charter business with the potential to gross an annual income in excess of THB 3,000,000 For more information, viewings and a copy of a business plan Email: steve.secondwind@gmail.com or call 0852880198

Sale price THB 3.5 million Moored at Pranburi Marina

House for Sale 4 bedrooms, 3 En-Suite bathrooms. Large high ceilings in the big living areas and master bedroom. Very big living and dining area with separate entertainment room/ office. Air-con in all rooms. Fully fitted European kitchen plus separate outside kitchen area. Nice size garden with 8x4 private pool and Jacuzzi. Large terrace and Double car-port. Corner plot on 24 hour security resort with amenities. Wireless connection and European satellite TV. 8 minute drive from town and beach on Soi 112 ( Four lane feeder to the By-Pass). editor.approach@gmail.com

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For more information contact APPROACH Magazine: editorapproach@gmail.com Or call: 085-214-2274 (Ralph), 089-009-8560 (Jerry) APPR OACH M AGAZINE

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PURE DINING at the BUBBLE

the Bubble RESTAURANT

The Bubble restaurant, a lounge and bar blends the flavors and atmosphere of the Far East with the style and sophistication of the West, where you to enjoy a cool drink or delicious organic meal with your beloved ones. www.thebubble.asia Contact no. : +66 (0) 88 709 1445 Address : Baan Ing Phu, 207 Moo 7, Nong Hieng, Hin Lek Fai, Hua Hin Media : www.facebook.com/thebubblerestaurant APPR OACH M AGAZINE

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UPSCALE LIVING

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