Life style by the sea Magazine issue 1 by Bob Tim

elcome to the first edition of ‘Lifestyle by the sea’ magazine, produced by the SEC-Media team, established here on Koh Samui with more than 5 years experience in the media and the marketing field and has produced many quality publications over the past years. We have decided that it is time to produce a freestyle magazine of our own. In sociology, a lifestyle is the way a person lives; it is a characteristic bundle of behaviors that makes sense to both others and oneself in a given time and place, including social relations, consumption, entertainment and dress. The behaviors and practices within lifestyles are a mixture of habits, conventional ways of doing things and reasoned actions. Thease are the founding ideas contributed to setting up this magazine, plus the focus on ‘by the sea’ living for holiday makers as well as the residences, this is how the name ‘Lifestyle by the sea’ derived. Although this magazine is based in Samui, it also contains contents from various geographical areas spotlighting around the coastal destinations, with the supplementary distributions in Pattaya and Phuket plus more outlets to come. We would like to act as a link between the sea-side resorts initiating from our base in Samui, showing what else are available in Pattaya and vice versa. In this edition, we provide you with interesting information including legal issues, places of interest and things to do in Samui, Pattaya and a bit from Phuket. The ‘Samui Jazz’ will be organized again after about a month break and this time the musical talent and well-known Swedish Jazz artist ‘Jonathan Fritzen’ will be featured on Saturday 26th of September at Samui Park Avenue, Samui Airport, so if you are planning a trip to Koh Samui, that weekend could be another good reason for your visit. Lifestyle by the sea and the SEC-Media Co., Ltd. are being part of this event and we will bring you the review of this concert in our next edition. Another event not to be missed if you are in Pattaya on the same weekend is ‘Movers & Shakers 2009 Charity Golf Outing’ followed by the Lighthouse Club Sundowner at ‘The

Village’ Shopping Center, an ideal location for such an interesting party in which the organizing team expects more than 200 people attending. See you on Friday 25th of September. Like every year, in the month of September, The Jesters Care for Kids committee, Pattaya based group of big hearted people, work tirelessly in putting their time and energy together in organizing the annual Children’s Fair and Family Day (Sunday 13 Sept.) followed by the Jesters Party night for the big kids (Saturday 19 Sept.) to raise money for good causes especially supporting the underprivileged children in our community. Additionally in this inaugural issue we are portraying some of the selected work from a Samui based professional photographer Rang Jiraphol who recently launched his collection of his masterpieces into a book called ‘Samui Art in Mind’, now available at leading bookstores. A very big thank you to all of our advertisers for all the trust and support towards our publications, our team at SEC-Media promises to continue to bring you with interesting and useful information from in and around the area where loads of activities are happenings. Our online version www.lifestylebythesea.com will upload the full magazine with the links to our clients’ websites from their advertising pages, plus update information of various interesting activities.

Managing Director:

Suwanthep Malhotra Editor:

Vincent Brun Sub Editor:

Ellie Maghraoui Marketing:

SEC Media Co., Ltd. Graphic Designer:

Narinthip Jutin Worawut Timwon Printing Coodinator:

Narinthip Jutin Photographer:

Jiraphol Rikshasuta (Rang) Webmaster:

Sittichai Saikaew Distribution:

SEC Media Co., Ltd. SEC Media Co., Ltd.

5/5 Moo 6, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320, Thailand T: +66 (0) 77 414 222, 414 333 F: +66 (0) 77 414 321 E: contact@sec-media.com www.sec-media.com

If you are interested to have your establishments or projects featured in our next edition (November-December) please contact us at 077 414 333 ext. ‘SEC-Media’ or e-mail us at contact@sec-media.com. With all the best wishes! Yours truly, Front cover photo by: Jiraphol Rikshasuta (Rang)

Suwanthep Malhotra Managing Director SEC-Media Co., Ltd. md@sec-media.com 09/09/09

www.lifestylebythesea.com

CONTENT Samui 008 Scuba Diving In The Gulf Of Thailand

010 EX2tremely Good Jazz at X2 Resort

014

012 What a ‘Jazz Night’

018

013 Impiana Samui Resort & Spa

016 Santiburi Golf 017 Media: Let’s go billboard

018 Samui Art in Mind By Rang Jiraphol

028

Pattaya 024 Places of interest in and around Pattaya

026 Living in Pattaya

036

027 Casa Pascal Restaurant

Phuket

034 The Sixth Annual SIX SENSES Phuket Raceweek 2009

036 LE MERIDIEN Phuket Beach Resort voted one of the world’s top 100 hotels

028 Jesters care for kids

Phulet

034

044

043 It’s Time To Buy

044 DUBAI’S tallest tower done by end of year

048

046 Concept of the Century

048 Property News by Dr. Sopon Pornchokchai 050 Lease Ownership

052 Real Estate:

Thailand Estates Corporation 054 Suriyan Heights

056 Listings 062 Mont Tara

059

008

Samui

SCUBA DIVING IN THE GULF OF THAILAND

Picture yourself – gliding weightless through one of the most fascinating places on our beautiful planet – the Underwater World… Imagine being surrounded by some of the most amazing creatures on earth - big schools of fish, colorful corals and many different kinds of marine life. The Gulf of Thailand offers a wide variety of dive sites for all levels of divers. Even if you have never dived before, you can experience a Discover Scuba Dive under very close supervision of a Dive Instructor, do your Open Water Diver or Advanced Diver Certification or go all the way to the professional levels – Koh Samui offers it all! If you are already a certified diver, you could join some spectacular dives in the warm tropical waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Come to see the chimney at Sail Rock, the sharks at Chumpon Pinnacle, the bizarre boulders at Shark Island, the sea anemones and clown fishes at Southwest Pinnacle, the turtle at Aow Luek or the colorful corals in the Angthong National Marine Park. Even if you are not a diver at all, many of our dive locations offer perfect snorkeling and swimming conditions – you just have to love the ocean and you will see. Come dive with us and you will enjoy the beauty of the Gulf of Thailand being guided by our professional dive guides and dive instructors. Our dive sites offer very easy dive conditions. The waters are pretty shallow, the currents are usually mild to moderate and the tropical water temperature with the clear water will make you feel like immersing in an aquarium. Marita Fassbender Dive Instructor and Course Director, Easy Divers Koh Samui, a certified PADI ‘Go Eco’ operator Tel 077 413 373; Email: info@easydivers-thailand.com Photos courtesy of Colin Parker

010

Samui

EX2tremely Good Jazz at

X2 Resort Samui

X2 Resorts Thailand, the design hotel brand of Astudo Hotel and Resort Group recently presented the exclusive performances by Josee Koning, one of Holland’s most famed Jazz vocalists, at their stunning X2 resort on the tropical island of Koh Samui. Josee Koning, who first fell in love with Samui last year while staying at X2 Resort, appears in Samui courtesy of X2 Resort Samui who is sponsoring her stay in Thailand and offering the ultimate opportunity to enjoy up close and personal with one of Europe’s finest Jazz Divas. Josee has always had a passion for Brazilian music and is well known for her interpretation of the “Musica Popular Brasileira”, not only in the Netherlands but also in Brazil. She began her career in the 1980’s and has been working with a wonderful selection of Brazil’s finest musicians since 1995. Her latest album Bem Brasiliero, nominated for a prestigious Edison Award, was recorded in Rio Di Janeiro and Sao Paulo with the sublime musicians of the famed Nosso Trio. Great fun was had by all who attended her live performance. X2 Resorts, is managed by Astudo Hotel & Resort Group and member of ‘Design Hotels’ and a ‘Selected Tablet Hotel’ member, offers casually designed accommodations and state-of-the-art facilities. X2 Resorts collection includes X2 Kui Buri (Hua Hin) and X2 Samui. Other X2 Resorts scheduled to open soon is X2 Rayong and in mid 2010 are at Koh Kood (Kood Island), in Trat Province and Koh Tan (Coral Island), located southwest from Samui. For more information of X2 Resort call 077 233 033 or e-mail reservations.samui@X2resorts.com.

Josee Koning

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012

Samui

What a ‘Jazz Night’ The recent Karma Jazz Night has brought together familiar faces from the Samui Social scene. With international artists featuring Magnum Ad and Al Lewis, who used to play their tunes with James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Paul Anka, Stanley Clarke and Stevie Wonder, had their performance live at the fascinating setting at the RockPool. Designed menu with a special cocktail prepared by the chef, a thrilled and exciting evening was had by all who joined in the fun. More events are being organized by the team at Karma Samui. Make sure to check out www.karmasamui.com or send an e-mail to fnb@karmasamui.com to have your e-mail listed in their mailing list to receive all the happenings being sent to you to avoid missing out all the fun.

SAMUI

SKAL

INTERNATIONAL

KOH SAMUI DINNER & BRUNCH SESSIONS September – December 2009 DINNER starts 7.30 pm. BRUNCH starts 12.30

Sunday Brunch, September 6: Samui Honey Cottage Tuesday, September 22: THE PAGE (at THE LIBRARY) Sunday, Brunch, October 4: Samui Evasion Tuesday, October 20: LANDHAUS LAMAI Sunday, Brunch November 8: Six Senses Tuesday, November 17: MELATI RESORT Sunday, Brunch, December 6: Carpe Diem Saturday, December 12: End –of –the –year Gala Dinner-open Modifications possible

IMPIANA Koh Samui, Thailand

mpiana Samui Resort & Spa - Bearing a fresh look of a 4 star Contemporary Beach Resort.

Renowned as a MUST holiday destination is a resort residing in the beautiful island of Koh Samui offering splendid and perfected hospitality. Impiana Samui Resort & Spa lies in the southern coast of Ch a w e n g b e a c h , w i t h o u t s t a n d i n g T h a i w a rmth hos p i tality with a sense of perfection and excellence. Known as a resort that provides each and every guest an unforgettable attention from arrival to late departure; the assurance of service beyond expectation is the kind of culture held. A holiday within your means is what we offer. This is a place that creates an unspoiled stay with a great fresh look. A year has passed since Impiana Samui took the leap of launching its newly revamped rooms. Within the same year, continuous progress was inevitable as zporary resort status without taking away its most precious gem, being located right in front of Chaweng Noi Beach. Find your most convenient spot in the resort; well appointed guest rooms, Sabai restaurant offering magical nights, a one stop chill spot, Tamarind Bar & Lounge, the Spice Pavilion, Swasana Spa or why not experience them all. We d d i n g s , h o n e y m o o n s o r a n n i v e r s a r i e s a r e well acc o m m o dated at the resort. Combined with creative services and well appointed facilities of the resort, it will truly be an unforgettable experience. Holding an event at Impiana Samui will surely make you feel, that you are in Right Place Always. Call it a tropical getaway to be in Koh Samuiâ&#x20AC;Ś but only at Impiana Samui Resort & Spa that you will find your unseen level of satisfaction. Check out www.impiana.com for more information.

014

Samui Jazz POPSANOVA, a talented group of Brazilian artists, performed at Samui Jazz Vol. 2 at Singha Sports Bar, Samui Park Avenue in Samui Airport. Starting the evening off was an exhibition of booths from various hotels & resorts along with 20 members of the Thai Hotel’s Association (THA) exhibiting Koh Samui’s First ‘Low Carbon School Project’, together with GIDOVA and Samui Dog Rescue showing great initiatives for improving the development of Koh Samui. Samui Jazz Vol.2 underwent a transformation into “Samui Jazz Going Green” which represents the fundraising efforts being made to support The Green Island Foundation. The unique atmosphere that this concert provided on Koh Samui attracted a great variety of people. While some enjoyed dining, others preferred enjoying their favorite cocktail while mingling with their friends and making new ones. All in all everyone enjoyed sharing good times together and listening to some excellent jazz. Popsanova opened their set with the single, “it is too late,” followed after by many of their hit singles. During intermission, raffle tickets were offered to who ever wanted to test their luck, with lots of exciting raffle prizes to be won. Following Popsanova’s exceptional performance, Takechi, a band from Bangkok, finished the evening and made the Samui Jazz Vol. 2 a night to remember. Bangkok Airways’ Vice President for Corporate Communications, M.L. Nandhika Varavarn discloses that Popsanova has brought in a new sensation to the island. “It’s all about the right place enlivened by the right music. Samui definitely has it all to offer. For those who loved Bossanova, this genre of pop adaptation is absolutely your cup of tea,” said M.L. Nandhika. Who also added that the island of Samui has potential to stage any international concerts. As a crossroad for regional holidaymakers, Samui will see a monthly music event coming towards the year-end. “Jazz is for the intimate people”, confirmed M.L. Nandhika. Vichart Jirathiyut, managing director of Hitman Jazz who brought the artists to Samui revealed that, he was really happy to bring the artists and be involve in this event, the artist ‘Popsanova’ is really a great band, we may not be familiar with them yet but they are the real quality international band from Brazil. The company has been bringing various well known musicians to Thailand and has provided great shows for the past decades. “After the performance of Popsanova, we promise to bring more great performers to Samui. Not only international musicians that we will bring, there are a lot of Thai bands who are the world-class musician as well and we are proud to have these Thai artists performing as well”, said Vichart. Santi Wongsawat, director of Amsiam Travel, one of the organizers added that, “Hitman Jazz brings in various quality artists to Thailand and we recognize that why don’t we also have quality shows here on Koh Samui, we started small and will gradually make it big. With this idea, we wanted to see the locals as well as tourists coming to Samui to be involved in special events. We have planned to put this into the Koh Samui activities agenda and should become Thailand agenda in the tourism calendar”. Stay tuned for the updates at www.samuijazz.com.

016

Golfing

Santiburi Golf Experience the new height of golf at the most scenic course on Koh Samui where you can enjoy the 180 degree panoramic views surrounded by crystal-clear ocean, Koh Phangan and coconut palms waving amidst verdant greenery. The 18 holes par 72 championship golf course is beyond comparison, with fully equipped and modern clubhouse sits on a superb setting reveling cool scenery where tropical islands dot the majestic blue sea. The refreshments are out of this world with a wide range of delectable dishes and drinks served by the welcoming staff. Kick back and

unwind in this most relaxing atmosphere and take away sweet memories of incredible golf and wonderful times all rounds. The golf course is a 5 minutes drive form Santiburi Resort, 10 minutes drive from Bo Phut Resort and Spa and is located along the hills in the North of Koh Samui. It stretches across hilly terrain and slopes deeply down towards the ocean, boasting breathtaking views of the ocean and island. Waterfalls and creeks run through the land adding lush, natural beauty. This golf course is the first and only golf

course on the island that is designed to meet international golf course standards. It fits in harmoniously with the rolling contour of the hills and blends perfectly with the beauty of the coconut mangroves and the surrounding nature. Its design concept has been envisioned as international entertaining and intriguing, truly one of the most beautiful golf course in the region. Santiburi Samui Country Club, 12/15 Moo 4 Tambol Maenam Amphur Koh Samui Suratthani 84330. Tel: 077 421 700-8 Fax: 077-421 709 www.santiburi.com

â&#x20AC;&#x2122; com e t l e e W ay ni gh n i â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;W sd r u h y T r e v E

Samui Town Center 119/8 Bophut Koh Samui Tel: 077 427 591-2 www.briosamui.com

Media

LET’S GO ‘BILLBOARD’ M

any businesses set aside a small budget on advertising that may be because they do not fully understand the power of advertisement. What they fail to see is that advertisements translate to profit; the bigger the ad the faster the arrival of the money and business potentially.

Why bigger signs? Ads have a simple duty, to let people know, but it is one of the key things to remember when soliciting your viewers’ or target audiences’ interest and response. A good example would be a simple garage sale. If you have bigger signs, more people will see and flock your garage sale. The same principle could apply to other bigger enterprises and business activities. Bigger signs also ensure a clearer presentation of the details you are announcing. You are confident that you have enough space and that they are readable, even from a distance. Sure, you have to spend a little to make the signs but, rest assured, the returns can be greater.

Why use vinyl? Vinyl signs have become a favorite among companies for announcing exhibits, fairs, trade shows and clearance sales in the form of banners and billboards. It has also recently been made more accessible to the general public since printing jobs on vinyl can now be easily ordered and post up.

Vinyl - a reliable material because It is durable Vinyl is a synthetic material that is known to be durable and flexible. It does not easily tear-off. Even if it is exposed outside, it can resist some of the weather’s elements. Being water-resistant, humidity or direct water cannot easily ruin your design or print. Colors do not stain and are sealed in with the inks printers use. Rain or sunshine does not easily degrade the material in undue time. It displays color well When printed on vinyl, colors do not appear dull. It maintains a certain level of vibrancy even through time. Made for use too within indoors or

outdoors, the colors are consistently brilliant even under different light conditions. Photos and artworks are shaped well with high-resolution so your prints possess that clarity and sharpness even from a distance. It is fade-resistant Apart from being water-resistant; the printed surface of vinyl can also be made fade-resistant through ultraviolet (UV) inks. For signs that will continuously be exposed to the heat of the sun or any light source for extended amounts of time, vinyl is a good option. It can be displayed in different ways Vinyl banners come in different sizes. Some prefer small banners while some sizes can extend to the size of ‘billboards’. For the latter, durable materials such as metal frames, hold them in place. For smaller signs, they can be displayed two ways. One is by hanging on windows or in between posts. Grommets, the metal eyelets or rings placed on the corners of the sign, allows it to be suspended with the use of strings. Some use tripods specifically designed for signs. And then there are those with pole stitching so it can be suspended from ceilings and so on. So the next time you plan an event or wanted to give the maximum exposure to your establishments that needs to gather as many people as possible, advertise big time and use vinyl signs on the ‘billboard’. SEC MEDIA, your ‘one-stop’ marketing agency had secured prime locations on Koh Samui to offer businesses a ‘big time’ opportunity to utilize our billboard facilities with affordable prices. Reach your target audience with more than 20 prime spots to choose from (more locations to come). Contact us at 077 414 222 or 077 414 333 ext. SEC MEDIA or e-mail: contact@sec-media.com, www.sec-media.com

017

‘The Reflection’

People

019

CLICK STUDIO By Rang Jiraphol

Bangkok born Rang Jiraphol started photography at the tender age of 11 and then went on to study the same subject in order to become a master in his own rights In the meantime, he has received prestigious awards from the photography society of America, cannon, the tourism authority of Thailand and The Thai Prime Minister Rang lives on Samui since 1990 where he operates the Click Studio in order to visualize his ambitions by capturing the moment If you’d ask him to describe his job, he’d state that each of his pix is created with art in mind

Samui Art in Mind Now available at leading book stores on Koh Samui and various sea side resorts

clicksamui@hotmail.com www.clicksamuiphoto.com

You can analyze this statement by taking a magic carpet ride through the materialized nirvana of rung’s interpretation to see things.

Following pages are some of Rang’s work on various special occasions...

020

People

‘Panoramic shot’ Taken at Wang Wieng, Laos

People

‘Back from work’ Another familiar but rare scene on Koh Samui

021

022

People

‘Morning Glory’ The Talay Noi, Pattalung Province at 7 am. show the real hopful new day depicted by the pink lotus

People

023

‘Reverse clay-pot’ One of Rang’s most favorite photo setting shoot Taken at Bang Makham, Koh Samui

024

Pattaya

Places of interest in and around

PATTAYA

With so much on offer, in Pattaya, everyone has the choice, to do something, nothing or everything! But for the latter, be warned you’ll need plenty of time, as there’s so much available! Before even dipping a toe in the waters of Pattaya, there a number of interesting and worthwhile places to visit, many of which feature on organized tour. Some of the most popular choices include Suan Nong Nooch, a Thai village style theme park with superb gardens, an orchid nursery, and entertaining cultural performances, including an elephant show. Pattaya’s most important temple is Wat Yansangwararam, a modern building under His Majesty the King’s patronage. It incorporates buildings of different architectural styles, including Japanese, Chinese and Indian influences, and is a centre for meditation. Wat Khao Cheejan is located nearby Wat Yansangwararam, where the biggest Buddha is carved with gold on a stone mountain. Khao Kheaw Open Zoo with 1,200 acres of forest and natural beauty is one of the largest zoos in Asia, offers the basic open zoo excursion and night safari and Asia’s Largest Butterfly Garden, Saithip Butterfly Garden, which occupies 15.22 acres of beautiful landscape in Khao Kheaw area, experience floral gardens with over one hundred species of thousand of butterflies. Sriracha Tiger Farm, is a mini-zoo, with crocodiles, tigers, camels and many birds. The Million Years Stone Park & Crocodile Farm houses over 1,000 crocodiles, plus a zoo and a bonsai garden, set amongst some interesting rock formations and fossils. Pattaya Elephant Village features well performed demonstrations of elephantine

skills, such as logging and re-enactment of their role in historic battles, plus the enduring favourite, the elephant football match. The Siriporn Orchid Farm has some splendid displays of orchids, including catteleyas, daedrovium, pompadours and vandas, with cut flowers and plants also on sale there. The Bottle Art Museum comprises a collection of more than 300 glass bottles, containing miniature replicas of churches, temples, palaces and much more, the clever handiwork of a resident Dutch sculptor. Mini Siam puts on a daily cultural show and features an interesting selection of beautifully crafted scale models of major buildings both in Thailand and elsewhere, on a scale of 1:25 and Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum is an entertaining retreat on the odd rainy day. Pattaya Park Tower rises some 240 meters and provides a revolving restaurant, as well as spectacular views and Pattaya Water Park provides thrilling waterslides, whirlpools and swimming pools for family fun. Bamrung Sailing and Paramotor Centre at Huai Sak Nok Reservoir offers different varieties of aquatic sports. Certificated courses are offered for windsurfing, sailing, paramotors and para-gliders. Canoes, catamarans and kayaks are also available for rent. The reservoir is, additionally, a stop for many migratory birds, between November and February. Pattaya boasts a wide range of land sports, with over a dozen top golf courses, including the Laem Chabang International Country Club and the Sriracha International Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player respectively. Pattaya also has a calendar of international tennis tournaments, including the Volvo Open Women’s Tournament. The Bira International Racing Circuit offers motor and motorcycle

racing on its 2.4 km circuit, where Formula 3 racing cars and go-karts can also be hired. Races take place regularly on weekends. There is also a Miniature Racetrack, Pattaya Cart Speedway, where separate tracks are provided for professional and amateur drivers. Visitors can also participate in elephant or pony treks through hinterland meadows villages and farms, which provide a pleasant ever-changing vignette of Thai rural life. Pattaya boasts three international bowling alleys with top of the range equipment, and has its own Thai boxing stadiums, plus a professional training camp that offers short courses for foreigners. Elsewhere, paintball ‘battles’ are conducted in a mock-up Thai village, and can be excitingly adrenalin-boosting. For the real thing, there is an air-conditioned shooting range, with 19 fully-equipped galleries, qualified instructors and a selection of powerful weapons from hand guns up to assault rifles. After experiencing all or many of the fun activities and interesting places in Pattaya, Amari Orchid Resort & Tower, located on the quiet northern end of Pattaya Beach Road, offers 5-star accommodation and services with superb facilities. Guests can experience luxurious comfort at the Ocean Tower, which has 297 stylish rooms and suites, including the Horizon Club executive floors, or at the resort-style Garden Wing, offering a further 228 rooms and suites. There is also a fabulous choice of restaurants and bars as well as enticing leisure activities. Contributed by Amari Orchid Resort & Tower

026

Living in Pattaya

Properties in Pattaya by Virtual Tour

Town & Country Property; one of Pattaya’s leading real-estate agencies, offers something ‘special’ to their clients. Town & Country established a very well-known reputation in Pattaya having a strong involvement and background in project-development. This is rather unusual for a general real-estate agent. Right now; T&C group has 3 ‘ready to move-in’ residential projects under its umbrella: The Meadows Modern housing estate with 46 affordable luxury homes. The Residence Resort-style condominium in Jomtien with 68 apartments. Whispering Palms Executive Villas near Maprachan reservoir. You can visit ALL of them seated in your favorite chair at home worldwide! Visit www.towncountryproperty.com and navigate to the special ‘Virtual Tour’ pages. You can select the project

of your interest and ‘visit’ the beautiful decorated show-lounges! It feels like home! Guaranteed! When you are impressed with the online ‘Property-Tour’ you can decide to visit the project and witness the show-lounges yourself. Guaranteed that you will be amazed with them! At Town & Country Property, a dedicated team of interior designers furnished and decorated all showcases and they are really very impressive. The showrooms are open every day of the week from 9 AM until 6 PM, including weekends. The managing director of Town & Country, Mr. Cees Cuijpers from Holland, explained to us why they decided to introduce this rather costly and exclusive tool on their website… ‘…In the current property-market we found that a lot of clients appreciate the fact that all of our properties are ready-built! No loss of time waiting for construction to finish; no hidden defects; no risks; no doubts with regards to finishing quality and so on.

The virtual tour takes away a lot of those questions and mysteries. An ideal instrument to introduce topquality properties in our opinion! And, a very nice way to ‘discretely’ visit projects that might be of your interest.’ A personal visit of any of the Town & Country Projects will be really easy as T&C has 2 offices in Pattaya: The main-office is located on Pattaya-Tai (not far from Sukhumvit Road); and a branch at The Village Shopping Centre in Jomtien, intersection Sukhumvit Road/Soi Chayapruk. Cuijpers told us that everyone who would like to have a look at any of their projects; or is looking to buy or rent a condo or house in general, can simply contact T&C to arrange for an appointment! German-speaking and Russian-speaking propertyconsultants are available! Tel: +66(0)3837-4136 email: info@towncountryproperty.com

Dining in Pattaya

027

If you want to impress someone, then come to

Pascal Schnyder, the owner of Restaurant Casa Pascal says ‘dining is his life’. Not an exaggeration, if you learn that for 22 years, he has been a career executive chef, and has worked for many five-star hotels around the world.

magnificent mahogany pillars, beams that are crisscrossing under extra-high ceilings, white walls with large windows.

With Pattaya becoming more sophisticated as a city and definite urban tastes taking over especially in the dining scene, Casa Pascal exemplifies and been leading the good restaurants of Pattaya and is still listed one of the top restaurants in Thailand.

Casa Pascal is nine-years-old, and its employees are trained to make sure guests get everything in a glimpse of an eye. Schnyder says the staff even stirs coffee for guests. His service philosophy starts from the welcome. “Welcome is the starter of all meals. It gives the guest sign that they’ll be comfortable in the restaurant,” says Schnyder.

Stepping into the restaurant is like stepping in a world outside Pattaya, glazed terracotta floors,

The menu is extensive and comprehensive and shows Michelin-star influence, you know: goose

liver dishes, rack of lamb, fresh oysters and lobsters, and Alaska King Crab legs sort of food, with special set menu, being changed twice a month. To sum up, very few restaurants in Thailand can hold a candle to Casa Pascal in its offerings. How best to describe it? As Schnyder puts it, “If you want to impress someone, come to CASA PASCAL”. Casa Pascal restaurant is situated on Pattaya second road opposite Pattaya Marriott Hotel, in front of Ruen Thai restaurant. Call 038 723 660 or log on to www.restaurant-pattaya.com.

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Jesters care for kids

Jesters As the finishing point of our first 12-year cycle of caring for needy kids comes into sight in September, we thought you might be interested in knowing how we got started and arrived at this juncture. The Jesters ‘Care for Kids’ Charity Drives began in 1998 after Alice and Niel Poulsen met up with a few of the members from Jesters MC Thailand to talk about the Fountain of Life Center, their work with needy kids and the help they sought. A gathering ensued at Delaney’s (now the More Bar) with Kim Fletcher and friends and the seed to start a charity drive was sown. The result was a quickly put together effort consisting of one Platinum Sponsor (100,000 baht) by Chonburi Siam Steel Mill Services, a Pub Night of raffles, auctions and music, a sponsored push bike ride and all for one beneficiary, the Fountain of Life Center. It took place in early September at Delaney’s and we raised 1 million baht, ultimately by reaching into our pockets the day after the event to attain that exact total. In 1999, we decided to add another event, the Jesters Children’s Fair, to go along with our Pub Night. The venue for the Fair was at the Royal Cliff Beach Hotel. One of the highlights of the Fair was the tugof-war when the unfit Haven’s Heavy Haulers beat the muscle-bound, Universe Gym team. We raised 1.4 million baht. In 2000, both of our events were held at the Amari Orchid Hotel in north Pattaya. The Fair

was held in the lower gardens across from the beach (before all the construction) and the Pub Night at Henry J. Bean’s. The Governor of Chonburi attended the Fair and soon after the Fountain of Life Center finally obtained its official status as the Good Shepherd Foundation. In this year, we raised 2.2 million baht. In 2001, we moved the Fair to the Siam Bayshore Hotel in south Pattaya and our Pub Night back to Shenanigan’s (formerly Delaney’s). Shenanigan’s also became a Platinum Sponsor, which along with Chonburi Siam Steel Mill Services, was the first time we had more than one Platinum Sponsor. Erik Sorensen was a huge help this year when he alone raised over 253,000 baht for the Sponsored Push Bike Ride. This was also the year our website was initiated by Susie Ngamsuwan. We kicked off our Pub Night with Chris Kays and the Pattaya Panthers holding their ‘slave auction’ to get the festivities rolling. We raised 2.65 million. The next year, 2002, we finally found a home for our Children’s Fair, when Khun Noi from the Diana Group offered us the spacious grounds of their Diana Garden Resort and Driving Range. Chonburi Siam Steel Mill Services was our Platinum Sponsor for the 5th consecutive year. We now had 7 Platinum Sponsors this year and raised 3.3 million baht. In 2003, we had 11 Platinum Sponsors plus a half-million baht from our fledgling Pledge Program, which accommodated those wishing to make monthly donations. Our Fair also

grew to include 72 stalls. The auction on Pub Night, headlined by Beckham signed jerseys and footballs, garnered close to 500, 000 baht. The end result was 4 million baht raised that was distributed among our then 3 beneficiaries, the Fountain of Life Center, the Pattaya Redemptorist School for the Blind and the Eastern Child Welfare Protection Institute in Huay Pong. In 2004, we went higher still with 17 Platinum Sponsors, our biggest Fair ever (over 80 stalls) and the most successful Pub Night. The latter was highlighted by the auctioning of an All-Blacks signed jersey by the team for 110,000 baht. Erik and Robert also raised a remarkable 504, 000 baht by riding their push bikes from Chantaburi to Pattaya in just under 12 hours! We were able to raise just over 5 million baht as a result. In 2005 the hits just kept on coming when 20 Platinum Sponsors came forward. Our Pub Night generated almost 1.5 million baht through GR ticket book sales, auction item bidding and sponsorship for Graham dressing up like a fairy princess for the evening. The top auction item was Michael Schumacher’s signed photo which went for 150.000 baht. The result was 5.5 million baht that we distributed now amongst 10 beneficiaries. In 2006 we kept the streak alive of continuing to beat the previous year’s totals of money raised when we exceeded the 6 million baht barrier. Twenty-three Platinum Sponsors joined us and combined with the other levels of sponsorship contributed over 4.25 million of the 6,001,013 baht ultimately raised. Top

Jesters care for kids auction items were Siam Country Golf Club Family membership (135K) and George Best signed shirt (100K). In 2007 we had our first Diamond Sponsor (400,000 baht), courtesy of Steve J. Lake, accompanied by 28 Platinum Sponsors. We ended up with record 6.12 million baht in sponsorship alone. Robert and Erik raised over 750, 000 baht (also a new high) from their sponsored pushbike ride from Trat to Pattaya or 276 kms in 12 hours. We had a final tally of 7.15 million baht in both cash and kind. Last year in 2008, just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, it went over the top again. Not only did 4 Diamond Sponsors come forward, but also a total of nearly 7 million baht in sponsorship alone, resulting in nearly 8.37 million baht! Grammy Entertainment supplied popular B.O.Y teen band to headline our stage entertainment at the Fair.

029

For 11 years of caring for kids, your magnanimity has provided 42.57 million baht for at least 39 different beneficiaries focused on giving needy children safe shelter, education and opportunities for a better future. This year, 2009, the beat goes on. And despite the global economic downturn, people are still finding ways to help us help the poor children. We do not expect to break any records this year, but then that has never been our goal. Instead, we have always set out to be positive while doing the best we can. Without YOU none of this would have been possible! If you have not joined in yet, please visit our website at . We hope you come see us and many of the kids you are helping at our Children’s Fair, on Sunday, September 13th at the Diana Garden Resort and Driving Range. Lewis Underwood Chairman of the Jesters Care for Kids Charity Drives

Additional activity for every year’s Jesters Care for Kids Charity Drives include the Jesters Party Night, this year will be held at Jameson’s The Irish Pub, Pattaya on Saturday September 19, from 6pm onwards. The First Prize in this year Grand Raffle is the new Honda Click, donated by Jesters, tickets are now on sale at 50 baht each or a book of 12 for 500 baht.

030

Welfare

PATTAYA INTERNATIONAL LADIES CLUB Holiday Bazaar - Saturday 3rd October 2009, Monday, 10 August 2009

Dear Sir/Madam, The Pattaya International Ladies Club (PILC) www.pattaya-pilc.com, established in 1989, is a group of more than 200 women who are dedicated to supporting and encouraging local Thai charities. Our main focus is to improve the lives of underprivileged children by providing school scholarships, counselling programs, dental health, school renovations, uniforms and shoes. The only way PILC can continue this rewarding work is through fundraising activities and events and of course generous sponsorship. One of our major annual events is the upcoming Holiday Bazaar, held in October. With more than 70 vendors and close to 800 visitors, it is a popular and highly anticipated event. In the past we have generated close to 500,000 Baht, with over half of that derived from our large raffle, which is why we need you!

This year we are inviting you to donate a prize for our major raffle. Your gift will help our raffle to entice more visitors to the Bazaar and more importantly, will generate income for our charities. All of our donors, including you, will be listed in the programs and will be acknowledged in local media with the prize winners. The grander the prize, the better the publicity! We hope you will take the time to consider our request and contact the PILC special events team. All donations will need to be collected by September 16th. Please note, time dated donations (like vouchers) will need to have a start date of 3rd October 2009 and be valid for a minimum of 6 months. Please if you have any questions, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hesitate to contact us.

Fran Laurent Home: 038 250 647 Mobile: 0871 306 207 Email: franells@gmail.com The PILC has changed the lives of thousands of deserving people throughout Pattaya, Rayong and the entire Eastern Seaboard. Your generous gift is a wonderful and rewarding way to show your support. Kind Regards, Fran Laurent Special Events

Activities

MOVERS & SHAKERS 2009

Charity Golf Outing

A fantastic ‘Charity’ fundraiser will be held on Friday September 25th which will starts with a golf-outing at the Navy Golf Course Plutaluang, Sattahip, Chonburi; followed by a Lighthouse Sundowner at The Village Shopping Center located on Sukhumvit Road. This is a great opportunity for people attending to meet each others, to network and share thoughts in a relaxed environment.

The Golf-tournament ends where the Lighthouse starts! The sundowner-program, although still ‘underconstruction’, will be full of surprises to make this a memorable event; we are still working on the final-details but most likely we will have

live-music entertainment (Princess Music) and a swimwear fashion-show in cooperation with Phuket Mermaid. About 200 attendees are expected during the evening program. The main-objective of this event is to raise fund for the good causes carried through by the Lighthouse Club. Highlight of this event will be the hosting venue itself, ‘The Village’, not only bigger but MUCH better equipped to host an event of this caliber! For any further information about the program, contact: movers-shakers@hotmail.com call: 081-894-2118 (John)

031

032

Activities

3RD ANNUAL GULF CHARTERS

THAILAND

SAILING SCHOOL CAMBODIA VOYAGE September 26 – October 3

It is that time of year again and we at Gulf Charters are anxiously waiting to cast off for one of our favorite events of the year- the sail into Cambodia waters. This 600+ NM cruise is packed full of all the things that make live aboard sailing so enjoyable. Open water sea miles and coastal cruising, remote and little visited island destinations, the chance to visit isolated villages, pristine, uninhabited beaches, clear water swimming and snorkeling and a party town landfall in Sihanookville. We are looking for a few join in crew members who can participate in handling the boat and become involved with the day to day operations of the boat. This is a great chance to get a feel for long range cruising and life at sea. Gulf Charters has a history of “pioneering sailing” here in the Gulf of Thailand and this adventure definitely falls into that category. If you can only go to sea for 1 week of the year, this should be the one. A real voyage of discovery, be one of the first sailors in modern times to take a yacht into this fascinating part of the world. We hope you will be able to join us. Please contact Capt. Tim to join up or if you have any additional questions. Tim@gulfchartersthailand.com

How much will the November Cambodia Mile-builder cost? There are three pricing options for this join in event based on your cabin choice. All options include all onboard expenses, meals and beverage, yacht check-in/check-out fees, linens, and use of all onboard equipment. The price also includes private transportation from the Koh Chang Charter base back to Ocean Marina on October 3. Cost does not include alcoholic beverages or shore leave expenses in Sihanookville. Single Cabin-1 person, private cabin: 45,000 THB Double Cabin- 2 person, private cabin: 75,000 THB Deck/Salon- 1 person, no cabin: 35,000 THB

What do I bring? Passport and Visa: You will need a valid passport and tourist visa to enter Cambodia. We will be able to arrange the visa (extra charge) if we have access to your passport on the 23rd of October. Otherwise you will need to make visa arrangements on your own. Gulf Charters will need to have all crew passports

CAMBODIA

with visa in hand by 11:00, October 26th in order to complete check out formalities. Please contact for additional information.

Money In Cambodia, most people use USDollars Thai baht is also accepted, but the exchange rate is a bit unfair. Your ATM/credit card should work fine in both Thailand and Cambodia. Please note that the join in cost will cover all your expenses and the only need for additional money will be if you would like to purchase items on shore in the few locations where that will be possible.

Clothing The attire on the boat is very casual – swimsuits and bare feet by day, shorts and shirt, or sarongs, and sandals in the evening. A windbreaker or similar for standing the night watches. You might want to bring hiking sandals or shoes for exploring the trails or shopping. No dark soled shoes allowed on deck.

Other gear Swim suits, dive skin, fins, mask, snorkel, fishing gear, sailing gloves, sailing rain gear, and any other toys you want to bring along, but it is recommended to keep it simple. Personal items: Sunscreen, sun glasses, hat, light sweater or wind breaker (it can get nippy after a rain shower), camera, film, extra memory cards, batteries, dry bag & mosquito repellant (if you go ashore). Personal hygiene items: toothbrush & paste, shampoo & crème rinse, soap & deodorant, prescription medication, spare prescription eyewear etc.

How do I Join? If you would like to enroll in this program we require a 25% deposit to confirm your booking and to hold your place on your selected dates. This payment can be made with cash or credit card in our Ocean Marina office or using one of our online payment options. Please contact: Tim@gulfchartersthailand.com for your online booking number. Friends and Fellow Sailors: If you are looking for a memorable experience and the comrade of shipmates enjoying the adventure of a lifetime, then look no further. I promise you that this trip will be one to remember. In addition, the sailing skills you will employ during this voyage will stick with you and be a definite plus to your sailing future. Set high expectations and we will deliver your dreams.

GULF OF THAILAND

Passage Plan

(subject to weather considerations)

September 26 18:00 20:00

Ocean Marina, Pattaya, Thailand- Welcome aboard. Depart Ocean Marina

September 27 All day at sea underway

September 28 12:00

Anchor Poulo Wai, Cambodia’s most remote island group

September 29 12:00 18:00

Depart Poulo Wai Anchor Koh Tang, Beautiful uninhabited island paradise

September 30 09:00

Circumnavigate and explore Koh Tang

October 1 04:00 09:00 14:00

Depart Koh Tang Arrive Sihanookville, Cambodia- complete entry formalities Shore leave in Sihanookville

October 2 10:00 12:00 15:00

Depart Sihanookville Beach and lunch in Koh Rung Depart Koh Rung

October 3 12:00 17:00 18:00 22:00

Waterfall excursion and lunch in Koh Kut, Thailand Arrive at Gulf Charters Thailand Koh Chang charter base Private Mini-van Return Arrive Ocean Marina, Pattaya, Thailand

034

The Sixth Annual SIX SENSES Phuket Raceweek 2009 Four days and five nights of world class sailing and parties!

Going from strength to strength as the years go on; the Six Senses Phuket Raceweek 2009 continues to grow in its stature and reputation with 33 boats taking part in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s racing. A multi-national line up saw crews from all over the globe, Thai, British, Australian, Canadian and New Zealand and many others took part this year. The four days of exciting and breath-taking racing encompassed six different classes: the thrilling IRC Racing, IRC 1, Club Charter, Multihull Class, Firefly 850 and the Classic Class.

Activities

035

PLACE BOAT SKIPPER

Highlights of the week saw Ray Roberts’ Evolution Sails and Neil Pryde’s Hi-Fi duel in the IRC Racing Class go down to the wire with only one point separating the two crews. Mitrmitri, Jaray Tipsuk’s all Thai crew provided local cheer as he landed the IRC 1 Class with some superbly consistent racing, never finishing out of the top 3 in the eight race card. Meanwhile some convincing performances in the Club Charter Class by Andrew de Bruin’s Awatea, the Multihull by Da Vinci Nina, the Alan Carwadine designed and skippered boat and Hans Rahmann’s Voodoo in the Firefly 850 Class saw all storming to their respected titles. Each crew showed supreme ability and skill by winning all but one, two and one race respectively.

results, prize giving and all regatta administration, not to mention the majority of the official after parties. The stunning resort, set amongst 64 acres of tropical gardens, was the proud Title Sponsor for the sixth year running.

Taking place in the middle of the year, the ‘Green Season’ regatta that is Six Senses Phuket Raceweek 2009 can suffer at the hands of the elements, with intermittent strong gusts of wind causing havoc with some of the boats. However, as well as showcasing the island of Phuket, the event plays an important part in the training of local sailors in the lead up to the big, international events in December.

Evason Phuket Raceweek is held under the auspices of the Ao Chalong Yacht Club In conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand. Organizers Image Asia Events Co., Ltd. drew upon their vast experience with the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, and the Phuket International Marine Expo (PIMEX) to create an event that perfectly showcased the region, and the sport.

The lower sea view terrace of the Evason Phuket Resort and Six Senses Spa became the Phuket Raceweek HQ, and entertainment hub for the race week. The resort’s ‘Into the Beach’ venue was the centre point for registration,

This year saw car giants Jaguar come onboard as co-sponsors for the event and provide Jaguar’s latest 10MY XR and XFR range of cars to Six Senses Phuket Raceweek. The company organized ‘Jaguar Asia-Pacific Test Drive Event’ during the regatta. The wonderful experiential campaign saw 60 Jaguar Asia-Pacific VIP guests from Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines and Thailand given the opportunity to try several models of Jaguar cars while enjoying the island and racing.

IRC Racing 1st 2nd 3rd

Evolution Sails Hi-Fi Yo!2

IRC 1 Mitrmitri 1st 2nd Madame Butterfly 3rd Phoenix Club Charter 1st Awatea 2nd Big A Prosfae 3rd Cunning Plan Multihull Da Vinci Niña 1st Thor 2nd Shanghai 3rd Baby Firefly 850 1st Voodoo 2nd Moto Inzi 3rd The Frog Classic 1st Seraph

Ray Roberts Neil Pryde Peter Ahern

Jaray Tipsuk Peter Dyer Niels Degenkolw

Andrew de Bruin Horst Lakits Rob Azzopardi

Composite Catamarans Alan Carwadine Henry Kaye/ Fergus Wilmer Neil Ayre

Hans Rahmann Roger Kingdon Andaman Sea Club John Newnham Tom Howard Beo

036

Phuket

LE MERIDIEN PHUKET BEACH RESORT voted one of the world’s top 100 hotels

Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort, an awardwinning 470 room resort located on a secluded beach on Phuket’s southwestern coast, recently became the only seaside hotel in Thailand to be included in this year’s prestigious World’s Best 2009 Top 100 Hotels and Top 15 Resorts in Asia as voted by readers of the internationally circulated Travel + Leisure Magazine. Travel & Leisure Magazine readers cast their votes in the 14th annual survey of the World’s Best, and Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort scored an impressive 89.75 score, placing it #82 on the world’s Top 100 hotels and #12 on Asia’s 15 Best Resorts lists. Readers based their votes on the hotel’s environment, ambiance, hospitality, service and accommodations. “We’re both humbled and proud to be held in high regard and placed in company with other distinguished hotels and resorts in the world,” said Rudolf Borgesius, General Manager of Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort. “Our aim is to continually enrich guest experience, providing pleasant discovery at each and every visit. We’re thankful that our guests and Travel + Leisure readers appreciate our efforts again,” he added.

The accolade follows closely on the heels of the resort’s announcement of a multi-phased enhancement project aimed at providing its rooms and suites with a host of upgrades including new décor as part of a dynamic focus on culture and refinement, larger bathroom space and redesigned fixtures complemented by designer amenities and improved sound isolation. Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort is situated on 40 acres of lush tropical greenery and features a secluded 500 metre pristine beach, two oversized swimming pools, 10 restaurants and bars, over 1,310 square metres of floor space for indoor and outdoor events of up to 980 persons and a complete range of water sports and recreational facilities. The resort is a 45 minute drive from Phuket International Airport and just minutes away from some of Phuket’s popular sites, including the shopping and restaurant district of Patong. For more information about the resort visit: www.lemeridien.com/phuketbeachresort

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Pascalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cooking corner

PAN-FRIED SCALLOPS WITH BONE MARROW Ingredient Bone Marrow with Bone Garlic chopped Provencal Herbs (Sage,Thyme,Rosemary,Marjoram) Parsley chopped Scallion chopped Salt & Pepper Goose Liver fresh cut into Medallion Salt & Pepper Flour Sub Recipe for Braised red Cabbage Red Cabbage sliced Red Wine Red Wine Vinegar Sugar Salt & Pepper Apples peeled & sliced Onions peeled & sliced Bay Leaves Cloves Risotto Rice raw Red Currant Jelly Chicken Stock or Water Sub Recipe for Port Wine Syrup Port Wine ( from Portugal ) Red Wine Bay Leave Thyme Salt

1 1 1 1 1

pc. gr. gr. gr. gr.

100

gr.

1 4 2 50

kg. dl. cl. gr.

150 150 2 2 20 80 1

gr. gr. pcs. pcs. gr. gr. lt.

1 1 2 1

lt. lt. pcs. twig

The Method Rinse the Bone Marrow under running Water for 2 hrs to wash out the Blood. Then place on baking Tray season with Salt & Pepper and top with the Herbs and Garlic and bake in the Oven for 10-15 minutes by 200 - 220 Degrees Celsius. Season the Liver with Salt & Pepper. Dust the Liver with Flour and fry in very hot Pan on both sides till golden brown. Combine all Ingredients, except the Currant Jelly and Chicken Stock, together and mix well. Keep it refrigerated for 2 - 3 days, while sometimes mixing it up. For cooking, place the Cabbage and its Marinade into a Braising Pot. Add the Chicken Stock and braise in the Oven till soft. Check from time to time that there is sufficient Liquid in the Pot, for not burning the Cabbage. Before serving, stir in the red Currant Jelly, bring to boil again, and adjust seasoning. Add all Ingredients in a Pot and bring to boil. Boil as long it takes in order to reduce it to 1 dl of Syrup. Remove Herbs and season with Salt to taste.

We would like to thank you all for your trust and confidence in our company and wish you all a very prosperous 2010

S.E.C. Privilege Card 2010

Bangkok

039

BUMPER FIELD

CONFIRMED FOR PTT THAILAND OPEN

The PTT Thailand Open will be a tight affair with a fantastic group of established and rising stars confirming their participation in the USD 608,500 event. Top 10 stars Rafael Nadal, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Gilles Simon will lead the field and they will be joined by a host of other top competitors including Bangkok favourites Jarkko Nieminen of Finland, Grand Slam champion Marat Safin and former Thailand Open finalist Benjamin Becker of Germany. Other players who will be hard to beat on the indoor courts at Impact Arena include a pair of big-serving Americans: Sam Querrey, ranked #23 will be returning for his second visit and competing for the first time will be 206 cm giant John Isner. Adding further strength to the field are rising stars world #31 Victor Troicki of Serbia, #35 Dudi Sela of Israel, and Germans #39 Philipp

Petzschner, #40 Andreas Beck and #53 Mischa Zverev. PTT Thailand Open Executive Committee chairman Mr. Suwat Liptapanlop added that the top stars would not find the competition easy: “There are so many highly-ranked players. Every match is going to be dangerous.” Two more Frenchmen will join Tsonga and Simon in trying to keep the King’s Cup in French hands: Julien Benneteau, and “The Magician” Fabrice Santoro who will be making his last appearance at the tournament having announced his retirement at the end of this year. Rounding out the truly international flavour of the competition are Austrian Jurgen Melzer, Marcos Daniel of Brazil, Spaniard Guillermo Garcia-Lopez, Leonardo Mayer of Argentina and Thailand’s own Danai Udomchoke. The last eight players in the field are still to be finalized. The PTT Thailand Open will be held from 26

September to 4 October at Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani. Tickets start at just Bt300 and are available from all Thaiticketmajor outlets,at www.thaiticketmajor.com or by calling 02 262 3456.

PTT THAILAND OPEN DETAILS Format: Best of 3 tie-break sets Venue: Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani Date: 26 September – 4 October Qualifying rounds: 26 – 27 September Main draw: 28 September – 4 October Prize money: US$608,500

PTT INVITES YOU TO SPREAD SOME TENNIS CHEER WITH ITS ‘RACQUET DONATION’ CAMPAIGN Turn your old tennis racquets to good use by being a part of PTT’s Racquet Donation campaign in association with the PTT Thailand Open 2009. People are invited to donate their old racquets which will be distributed to disadvantaged Thai children with an interest in playing tennis. All racquets will be repaired and given to children nationwide in the Racquet Donation campaign, which starts today and runs until 15 September 2009 at 20 PTT petrol stations participating in the campaign.

PTT is delighted to give two PTT Thailand Open 2009 tickets for each donated racquet and a chance to win special prizes; one of 10 tennis racquets signed by top tennis players competing in the PTT Thailand Open 2009.

Donation Procedures and Conditions: 1.Brochures and information regarding donations are available at the 20 participating PTT petrol stations (see attached file). 2.When making your donation, clearly write your name and address on the second part of the brochure and hand it back to the petrol

station staff to enter the lucky draw for a chance to win one of the 10 autographed tennis racquets. 3.Keep the first part of the brochure to present at the Thaiticketmajor booth at Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, to receive your two PTT Thailand Open tickets (Present your brochure stub at the booth by 6pm (on Thursday 1 October OR Friday 2 October 2009 evening sessions only – play starts at 7pm). For more information,please contact www.pttplc.com or www.pttthailandopen.org

040

Travel

STAR ALLIANCE Book & Fly Plan, book and buy on www.staralliance.com Star Alliance, the way the Earth connects, has enhanced the ability for customers to purchase Round the World fares and is now also selling this alliance product through www.staralliance.com. The new ‘Star Alliance Book and Fly’ allows customers to plan, book and buy round the world tickets via the internet, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Up to now, only planning a round the world journey on the website was possible, with pricing and ticketing having to be handled at airline call centres, ticket offices or travel agents. These sales channels will continue to offer the Star Alliance Round the World fare, in addition to the website.

Redeem One, Get One Free and Redeem One at 50%

“Star Alliance Book and Fly has transformed our website into a sales channel for the Star Alliance Round the World fare. Customers can now plan, book and buy through the web at their convenience,” said Christopher Korenke, Vice President Commercial, Star Alliance. “On the technological side, the implementation of an automated tool to process very complex routings is truly an outstanding achievement.” Customers can choose from an endless number of options when panning a multiple city round

Special promotion by Royal Orchid Plus Thai Airways International’s Royal Orchid Plus recently introduced special redemption promotions for its members on THAI’s domestic and international routes. Mr. Pandit Chanapai, THAI’s Executive Vice President, Commercial, said that THAI always places the highest priorities on offering special deals to Royal Orchid Plus (ROP) members. The Company is pleased to offer ROP members the following special promotions, in appreciation for their continued loyalty and on the occasion of THAI’s 49th anniversary. Firstly, Redeem One, Get One Free Promotion, Royal Orchid Plus members may redeem one ticket and get one free ticket on all air travel on return domestic and international flights*, in any class of travel including Economy, Premium Economy, Business, Royal Silk and Royal First Class. Secondly, Buy One, Redeem One at 50% Promotion, Royal Orchid Plus members who purchase air tickets on international routes* at a selected price will be offered 50% redemption on their mileage for their nominee, traveling on the same flights. This offer is valid for all class of travel. For further information and reservations, members may contact THAI’s 24-hour Contact Center at tel. 0-2545-1111, THAI’s sales offices worldwide or visit www.thaiairways.com/rop. The promotion is effective from now until 30 September 2009. Members must travel on the first departure sector before 30 September 2009 and the remaining sector must be used by 31 October 2009. * Valid only for air tickets operated by THAI

the world trip on the Star Alliance network. Hence, the tool has been designed to assist the user in creating a routing which corresponds to their travel needs. The itinerary can be created by either typing in the appropriate city or by clicking on the destinations displayed on an interactive world map. The destinations are colour coded in order to distinguish between those to which direct flights are offered and those which can only be reached by transfer connections. Once a valid itinerary is created, the system displays an estimated fare in the currency of the country of residence for the selected class of travel. Flight options for each leg of their journey are displayed from the real time availability. Additional service options, such as travel in premium economy class cabins, can be selected at the applicable surcharge. Once flights for the entire journey have been chosen, the final price including all taxes, surcharges and fees is displayed. After entering the personal data necessary to process the booking, the corresponding

flights are reserved. Tickets are paid for online via credit card and customers are emailed their electronic ticket. In case further assistance is required, various call centres around the globe will be able to help the customer. The Star Alliance Round the World fare is one of 12 Star Alliance fare products. Compared to one-way or return tickets, the Round the World fare is attractively priced. The fare levels are set according to distance and class of travel. Customers can choose between three mileage levels 29,000, 34,000 or 39,000 miles. The fare is available for travel in First, Business or Economy Class. Tickets are valid for one year. Additionally, the Star Alliance network also offers a Round the World special fare, which is only available for travel in Economy Class, has a maximum mileage of 26,000, must be purchased seven days prior to departure and permits three to five stopovers.

Travel

041

BANGKOK AIRWAYS launches ‘FLYER PASS’ The latest choice for smart travel

AIR BERLIN

rolls out Super Saver Autumn Fare Air Berlin has launched its new campaign “Romantic Autumn – Romantic Europe” for the opportunity to experience the most charming cities in Europe: Paris, London, Vienna, Zurich, Rome, Milan, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Helsinki, Oslo and Germany at the so-called Super Saver Autumn Fare of 17,580 THB only (round-trip fare excl. taxes and fuel surcharge). This offer is valid for travel period from 4 September to 11 October 2009. Seats are limited and special conditions apply. For further information please contact your travel agent or the Bangkok Office of Air Berlin at 02 267 1202-4 or thailand@airberlin.com

Turkish Airlines

celebrates 20th anniversary in Bangkok with special airfares to Europe

Bangkok Airways recently launched the ‘FLYER PASS’, the first prepaid sets of tickets designed to fulfil different lifestyles when it comes to hassle-free and value-for-money travelling.

times at no extra cost and the card has a lifetime of 1 year (until July 31, 2010). The FLYER PASS can also be purchased as a gift for all occasions thus it is today’s must-have travel gear for trendy lifestyle.’

The FLYER PASS is divided to 4 smart packs: Fun, Fusion, Fancy and Freedom. Each set consists of 4 flight sectors selectable from the card’s designated destinations at prices starting from all inclusive airfare of 9,000 Baht up to 29,000 Baht. The FLYER PASS is the only one of its kind which is available for online booking via www.bangkokair.com/ FLYER PASS and through Bangkok Airways Call Center 1771.

The FLYER PASS will be available at all Bangkok Airways offices and at travel agents. It will make a debut for purchase with 20% discount at Bangkok’s upcoming travel events; ‘The Ultimate Dream Destination at Siam Paragon’, held during 17-26 July at the Siam paragon and at the ‘Amazing Thailand Grand Sale’, held during 30 July-2 August at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. Moreover, KTC Bangkok Airways credit cardholders will enjoy additional 5% discount at Amazing Thailand Grand Sale and Citibank credit cardholders will receive additional 5% discount at Siam Paragon.

M.L. Nandhika Varavarn, Vice President for Corporate Communications said, ‘We are delighted to introduce the latest innovation in travel industry with our FLYER PASS, a new look and performance of prepaid ticket that offers great value and freedom to travel which is expected to stimulate and motivate the market even more on top of our recent campaigns and promotions.’ To emphasize the distinct advantage of the FLYER PASS from others, Ms. Chonlada Chevathakorn, the Senior Sales Director mentioned, ‘It is the first and the only card that allows holders to complete their reservation online. Alternatively, the cardholders can also contact our call center. Moreover, the route can be changed up to 3

Moreover, every purchase of FLYER PASS at both events will receive a ‘Buy 1 Night Get Another Free + 2 Breakfasts’ voucher for 2 persons to be used at participated hotels and resorts in; Samui, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Krabi, Trat (Koh Chang) and Pattaya. Reservation procedure via www.bangkokair.com/ FLYER PASS

Flyer Pass Type Type

Price

Designated

FLYER PASS-Fun 9,000 baht

Bangkok-Chiang Mai, Bangkok-Sukhothai, Bangkok- Krabi, Bangkok-Phuket, Bangkok-Trat, Samui-Krabi, U-Tapao-Samui, U-Tapao-Phuket, Samui-Phuket

FLYER PASS-Fusion 12,900

baht

Bangkok-Samui, Bangkok-Ho Chi Minh, Bangkok- Phnom Penh, Bangkok-Yangon, Chiang Mai-Samui

FLYER PASS-Fancy 19,500

baht

Bangkok-Siem Reap, Bangkok-Luang Prabang, Bang kok-Guilin, Bangkok-Xi’an, Samui-Hong Kong, Samui-Singapore

FLYER PASS-Freedom

29,000 baht

Bangkok-Hiroshima, Bangkok-Maldives

To celebrate 20th anniversary of operating flights to Bangkok, Turkish Airlines is offering special return air tickets to Economy Class travelers from Bangkok to all destinations in Europe via Istanbul with one special return air tickets priced at 19,135 baht until October 31, 2009. The airfares have yet to include airport tax, insurance, fuel and other surcharges.

countries in European continents. Attractive destinations in Europe travelers can visit with flights connections from Istanbul are Hamburg, Oslo, London, Budapest, Rome, Milan, Vienna, Paris, Nice, Amsterdam, Zurich, Madrid, Plague, Barcelona and Brussels.

Turkish Airlines operates flights to 155 destinations worldwide including over 30

For further information on Turkish Airlines flights visit www.thy.com or contact 02 231 0300-7 to book air tickets.

Properties

043

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TIME TO BUY

he Land Office announced on Tuesday 19th May 2009 that Special Business Tax payable to the Land Office on a land and/ or property transaction was reduced with immediate effect from 3.3% of the Declared Purchase Price or Land Office appraised price (whichever is higher) to the discounted rate of 0.11% until 28th March 2010. Further, anyone who has paid Special Business Tax at the higher rate between the dates of 28th March 2009 and 19th May 2009, may be able to reclaim the difference paid directly from the Land Office. Therefore taxes payable on the Sale and Purchase of land and/or buildings is below and is applicable until 28th March 2010:

Transfer Fee - Land only 2% of the Land Office evaluated Price Transfer Fee - Land & House 0.01% of the Land Office appraised Price Withholding Tax: When the Seller is a Company approximately 1% of the declared purchase Price or Land Office appraised Price (Whichever is the higher ) When the Seller is a person Calculated on Land Office appraised Price, on sliding Scale of personal Income Tax

Stamp duty (only paid when the seller is a person) 0.5% of the declared purchase price or Land Office appraised Price (Whichever is the higher. Only applies if the seller has owned the land for more than 5 years) Special Business Tax (SBT) 0.11% of the Declared Purchase Price or Land Office appraised Price whichever is the higher (currently reduced from 3.3% from 29 March 2008 to 28 March 2010) From Legal updated newsletter DFDL crawshaw

044

Properties

DUBAI’S tallest tower done by end of year

ubai’s foremost iconic project, the world’s tallest building expected to position Dubai again as a world leisure and tourist destination is the Burj Dubai. It is the tallest tower in the world planned to be completed this December. Previous reports had linked the mega structure with a soft opening in September to coincide with the start of operations on Dubai Metro. The UAE’s daily The National said a spokesman from the developers confirmed, however, that the giant tower would not open until December 2009 as with other projects that have been delayed in the city due to the recession. Near the famous Old Town, downtown Burj Dubai was built on the edge of the Burj Dubai Lake, creating a harmonious blend of the past and present. Old town has residential and retail facilities tourists like to visit because of the traditional Arabic architecture and design characteristic of the area. It features winding lanes and shaded walkways that can be appreciated from stories high up on the Burj Dubai. From the Old Town’s vantage point, one envisions the way in which Dubai evolved and further advances. Contrasts in landscape offer vistas of the previous pearl diving and merchant Gulf state emerging into an empire all its own, with high-rises piercing the skyline amid slender mosque spires peaking through. The tower is ideally located within short distance of all major business and financial institutions, shopping malls and other major tourist and local attractions. Classical themes and Arabian tradition define the hotel that preserves the charm of the state’s history albeit confronted with the future the ultra post-modern site the world’s giant hotel is about to become.

Adjacent to the giant Burj are the Dubai Mall and the waterside shopping mall Souk Al Bahar within the Old Town Island. For the benefit of ocean-loving tourists, there is easy access to the white sandy beaches of Jumeirah and the island’s meandering streets dotted with exotic residential apartments, boutique offices, shops, cafes and restaurants allows guests more time to unwind. There are also boat cruises from to major attractions of Downtown Burj Dubai, Burj Dubai to neighboring hotels and the Dubai Mall where guests find shopping a Dubai trip highlight. Developing firm Emaar has been tight-lipped over the final height of the Burj Dubai, which is thought to have topped out earlier this year at 818m, according to the National. “The spire is done, what you can see now is its maximum height. On the issue of finishing, the cranes are being removed, the cladding is almost done. I believe it will be finished on time,” chief financial officer Ziad Makhzoumi said. Emaar has to deal with issues on the financial front (some difficult construction loan problems), but is looking forward to get the biggest merger completed with other mega-developers in the City of Gold in order to advance the opening. By Hazel Heyer, eTN

www.eturbonews.com

046

Project

Concept of the Century Stratified Hotel Ownership Hotels differ significantly from apartments and condominiums in terms of ownership, investment return, operations and management, and even in physical form. Stratified Hotel project developers attempt to ‘title-deed’ each hotel room and sell them off to individual investors. Comparing with traditional condominium projects, these hotel units offer new attractions such as higher profile, better management, better appreciation prospect, higher yield, free use periods, etc. To the developers, these same features also make their products much more saleable and at higher prices.

Because the hotel’s operation could generate a yield, this would provide sustainability for the developer which in turn would allow them to hold out their positions longer, and many times to be able to reap in more profits on the rising price curve when the hotel’s opening is drawing near, and its physical form taking shape. Prices generally continue to rise after opening as marketing is facilitated by the exposure to a wider group of potential of buyers in the form of hotel guests, coupled with a true demonstration of a vacation experience now made possible in a real-life setting. However, the best of the both worlds would require more planning and diligence than mere wishing thinking.

This is your chance to own the piece of absolute paradise.

‘The Concept of the Century’ For more information check contact@thailandestates.com

People

047

Comparison of Stratified Hotels vs. Condominiums

the UNIT OWNER’S Perspective Price/Area Factors

Stratified Hotels

Condominiums

1. Unit size (net)

50 to 65 Sq.m.

65 to 200+ Sq.m.

2. Price per Sq.m.

50+% higher than Condominiums, fully furnished

Furniture package sold as extras

3. Unit price

Overall lower because of smaller unit size

Higher because of larger average unit size

4. Turnover Rate

Higher because of smaller investment

Lower because of many more larger units

5. Service Standards

Higher

Lower

6. Maintenance Standards

Higher

Lower

7. Charges

Absorbed in hotel operations

Separate and detailed

8. Control & Uniformity

Entire Property-all units

Public Area Only-rest is case by case; owners have right to appoint different agents/ companies to management the inside of their units

9. Overall Confidence In Management

Higher

Lower

10. Rental Management

Hotel management company

Separate agents representing separate owners are common

11. Rate per Sq.m.

150 to 200+% higher than condominiums

Lower because of “whole-selling time and size”-longer stay and larger units

12. Occupancies

• Uniform and smaller Product Saleable • Higher-60 to 70% over the long run

• Varying products and larger units are much more difficult to sell • Lower-20 to 30%

13. Costs

Absorbed in hotel operations

Separate and detailed

14. Yield

• 5% in the near term • 10 to 15% in the longer term as rates increases over time

• Struggling to meet management and refurbishment costs • Negative yields are common; run down over time

15. Self-use periods

Generally 21 days to 30 days; weighing factors for slow and peak seasons vary among locations and properties

Owner decides

16. Quality of service & other facilities

Higher because of hotel standards

Lower as lack of revenue sources forbids the setting up of comprehensive management and operation infrastructure, consequently standards could not be kept high

Management Factors

Rental/Yield

Self-use

048

Property News

Registered Non-Profit Organization No. BMA 1075 Principal Member, Intâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Fed of R.E.(FIABCI) Tel. 66 2295 3171 www.thaiappraisal.org

Dr. Sopon Pornchokchai, President, Thai Appraisal Foundation.

Sweden and Resort Investments in Thailand Is Resort market in Thailand draw investors worldwide? Who are target investors? Who are our competitions? Are our prices competitive? Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s find out:

I have the opportunity to be a guest speaker on the Property Expo in Sweden, which was organized by DEP Thai (Department of Export Promotion) which are currently undergoing many projects in resort destinations in Thailand. I have observed and collected data from the expo also received feedback and request from participants to develop the suitable investment plan which would suit foreign investors.

Project for Sale in Expo

Properties in Resort Destinations Properties in resort destination attended the expo came from various countries: USA, Australia, Asian countries, Mediterranean Sea and Europe; Portraying Condominium, Villa, Townhouse, Golf course development projects. At Swedish Expo in mid February this year, there were about 60 projects which included individual houses and from my study property price per square meter are affordable and Thailand has great opportunity to compete in this market.

Countries

Project Name

Property Type

Total Area

Total unit

Sold unit

Price/unit ( THB)

Sale price ( per sqm.)

Remark

Cyprus

Aphrodite Hills

villa

200

600

100

27,484,980

137,425

near beach

Cyprus Minthis Hills villa 300 32 20 54,969,960 183,233

Golf course development of 800 units

Malta

Tigne Point

condo

150

250

225

18,323,320

122,155

near beach

Protugal

Garden of the Algarve

condo

147

9,161,660

114,521

near beach

Protugal Villa Sol

land development

150

14,000,000

93,333

Golf course development

Spain

Mediterra

condo

100

13,742,490

137,425

near beach

Spain

Mirador Ses Cales

Townhouse

6,871,245

72,329

near beach

Turkey

Obasaray 4

condo

3,664,664

40,718

near beach

Turkey

Sunset Beach Res

condo

7,146,095

79,401

near beach

Property News

049

Demand to invest in Resort Destinations According to the questionnaire collected from 72 potential investors, the results are as follows:

Investment Potential area for Resort Destination Countries percentage Investment period

Price million THB

Investor Age

Thailand Spain Italy France Others Total

6.556 6.167 7.429 12.400 7.875 7.561

54.6 52.6 53.0 51.0 55.3 53.5

20% 25% 16% 14% 25% 100%

Mid2010 Early 2011 Mid2011 End 2010 Mid2011 Early 2011

Dr.Sophon article 1. 25% of the investor chooses Spain to be the top investment area followed by Thailand 20% Italy 16% and France 14%. The rest are in Croatia, Portugal, USA, Mexico and Australia

2. Generally, the investment period will start from 2011 but it is interesting that investors would like to invest early in Thailand (beginning of 2010). 3. Average price that investors would like to invest is about 7.56 million THB, The highest price is in France at 12.4 million THB with lowest price at 6.16 million THB in Thailand. 4. Majority of investor are retiree at the average age of 53.5 years old.

In the case of Resort Destination in Thailand Investors agree that: 1. About 1 out of 5 investors would like to invest in Thailand. 2. Estimated price to invest is at 6.56 million THB, and 45% invest at not more than 5 million THB, 33% at the estimated price between 5-8 million THB, above 8 million THB at 22% 3. 21% of investors would like to invest within 2010, but majority of investors (43%) would like to invest in 2011 and 15% in 2012

Recommendations to Developer In my opinion, developers will succeed if they can build credibility to investors by following these steps: 1. Carry through all feasibility studies and inspections from professional third parties including all the permits and registrations of projects. 2. Followed by all the legal contracts from prominent or international law firms. 3. Should have Escrow account to guarantee the investors. In Thailand foreigners can not have freehold on Properties (except for Condominiums) but still lease term of 30 years could be granted, which is quite attractive to investors to invest in Thailand. In conclusion, Thailand is one of the best resort destinations in the world favoring investors and the supply of properties for investors still have a lot to offer.

050

Legal

LEASE OWNERSHIP Unless you are buying a unit in a registered condominium your property purchase is likely to involve a land lease agreement of some description; as foreigners cannot own land in Thailand under section 86 Land Code Act.

owever, foreigners are allowed to own freehold structures upon the land leased. This should be completed through a sales agreement which is in addition to the land lease. It is also lawful for foreigners to lease land and then build a property on that land which can be registered in their own name. Your lawyer should ensure that a building permit is applied for in the foreigner’s name. The lease or hire of immovable property by foreigners for residential purposes is governed by the Thailand Civil and Commercial Code and this law is applied in the same way whether the lessee is foreign or Thai. Any lease period over three years is enforceable, if the lease is made in writing, in Thai, and registered at the local land office. The lease is then recorded on the back of the land title deed of the owner. Such a land title paper will show all legal acts and rights registered against the land. A lease registered with the Land Office remains in force throughout the term of the lease, regardless of whether the freehold owner sells or otherwise transfers the freehold. The registered lease serves as a warning to any party who seeks to purchase the freehold land, or raise money against it, that they would take subject to the existing lease. At present the maximum fixed and registered lease term under Thai law is 30 years. Section 540 Thailand Civil and Commercial Code states, “The duration of a hire of immovable property cannot exceed thirty years. If it is made for a longer period, such period shall be reduced to thirty years. The aforesaid period may be renewed, but it must not exceed thirty years from the time of renewal”. So, the lease may be renewed. But, a promise in the current lease to renew is generally a personal-right; it follows the parties to the agreement and not the land. In any lease or leasehold agreement it is important to distinguish real-rights from personal-rights. Real-rights are attached to the land rather than a person and are therefore enforceable against third parties such as

transferee owners. So, if the owner of the land dies, or transfers ownership during the lease period, the land will be transferred along with any real-rights registered. However, personal-rights are usually attached to a person and do not follow with the land. So, in the same scenario of the land-owner dying or transferring the land, the personal-right dies with them or with the transfer. Personal-rights and obligations are contractual promises relating only to those signing the lease agreement. Section 569 Thailand Civil and Commercial Code states, “A contract of hire of immovable property is not extinguished by the transfer of ownership of the property hired. The transferee is entitled to the rights and is subjected to the duties of the transferor towards the hirer.” Only the real lease rights will transfer with the freehold title of the property. A land purchase option or renewal clause is deemed a personal-right by the Thailand Supreme Court and not a real-right or registered right on the land title. Therefore they do not follow the property if it is transferred during the lease term. Future law and regulations could give greater protection to the lease owner and long-term leases, where the investment is intended to exceed the 30-year period, are drafted with this in mind. But, under present law, renewal promises remain a personal-right given by the owner to the lessee and are not enforceable against a person who did not sign the original lease agreement. The Buyer should appreciate that although the lease may have such a renewal clause inserted, Thai law only provides for one such renewal at present. Thus, a lessee cannot presently rely upon a lease clause which purports to grant 30/30/30 year term – no Thai court has yet ruled that final term to be valid. Furthermore, under Thai Contract Law there are several defenses available to the lesser to refuse a renewal option or option to purchase which was given 30 years previously. Thus, a land lease with an option to extend the lease cannot guarantee the renewal of the lease. In

Legal

theory a landowner may decide not to sign any registration for the lease extension once the 30-year period has expired. There may be a legal remedy for this in the Thai Courts, but many would find the legal system expensive and exhausting. With this in mind a further superficies agreement can be drafted to offer extra protection when buying undeveloped land. The Right of Superficies, under Thai Civil and Commercial Code, is a transferable and inheritable real-right interest in land to own or carry out construction of buildings for a specified term on land owned by someone else. So this can be used where the owner of the property being constructed is not the owner of the land. The agreement must be attached to the land title deed and specify the exact terms and conditions. The Right of Superficies can be either for a period of up to 30 years, or for the life of the owner of the land, or the superficiary. If itâ&#x20AC;&#x;s created for a period of time then it may be renewed like a lease. The Right of Superficies can be constituted for the benefit of an existing building or a building under construction. But local Land Offices generally allow registration for undeveloped land. This does not give an exclusive right of possession to the land and should therefore be combined with a land lease. It is however a real right and follows the freehold title of the land, being enforceable against third parties and future land owners. Building and Land Tax is not charged if the person granted the right of superficies uses the property as his residence. A building can be owned freehold by a foreigner as a separate entity from the land. In the case of undeveloped land, proof of ownership of a building is primarily established through the issue of a valid building permit. For example the name on the building permit is assumed to be the owner of the building. When an existing building is involved then the name on the official sales agreement will be assumed the owner of the house. Owning the property freehold also reduces Building and land tax which is governed by the Land and House Tax Act B.E. 2475. Building and land tax is 12.5% of the yearly rental, according to the lease agreement or the annual rental value assessed by the Land Department, whichever is higher. Lease registration fees are 1% of the total rental throughout the lease term and the rental will include the remuneration for the lease any other payments made by the lessee to the lesser for the lease benefits.

Stamp duty is collected on the register of the lease at the rate of 0.1% of the total rental throughout the lease term. A Thai Limited Company can own freehold land and can then lease that land to a foreign lessee. Changes to leaseholds have been talked about for a long time with the consensus being that terms should be available for longer periods, such as 50, or more optimistically, 99 years, which would encourage more confidence from foreign buyers. But even before any such changes are made, if combined with the freehold ownership of property; a lease remains the easiest and a legal way of acquiring an interest in land in Thailand.

From Legal updated newsletter DFDL crawshaw

051

THAILAND ESTATES C O R P O R A T I O N

Your Global Thai Connection Thailand Estates is a successful, well established real estate brokerage firm providing turn key commercial, residential, management, acquisition and project sales services to its clients and partners. Our firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dedication, vast experience, and comprehensive range of services, ensures that all our clients receive a competitive edge in the complex world of real estate investment. We at Thailand Estates take pride in providing an unsurpassed array of residential real estate services to buyers, sellers, investors, developers and those looking to build their dream home. Our residential division property associates have extensive local knowledge and experience in all

areas of residential real estate transactions. When buying or selling your home or investment property, call Thailand Estates. Land Acquisition & Development Retail, Office and Industrial Sales & Leasing Marketing / In-Depth Analysis Consulting Residential Investment Services Project Sales & Marketing â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our success can, in part, be attributed to providing each of our clients with our undivided focus and attention. We are known for our outstanding service and strive to create customers for lifeâ&#x20AC;?.

Real Estate Valuation, Research, Development and Consultancy With an unrivalled coverage of the island and strong local contacts, Thailand Estates is well placed to assist prospective investors who are looking for more than a “brokerage” service. Thailand Estates’s consultancy services include land use studies, redevelopment advice and detailed feasibility studies. With combined experience of over 17 years in Samui as well as the international real estate market worldwide, our team has the expertise required to offer practical advice to clients on these issues. By conducting regular market research we are always on top of trends on the island giving us a distinct edge over our competition. “The rapid and continuous growth on Koh Samui over the last few years has brought it to the world’s attention and with that has encouraged both government investment to improve infrastructure and private investment such as the new Santiburi Golf Course, Private Hospitals and The Four Seasons Hotel which are set to encourage further growth and stimulate tremendous real estate demand offering client’s unprecedented investment opportunities.”

Corporate and Investment Relations We can also provide you with a wide range of advisory services designed to help clients and asset seller’s benefit from our experience and specialist expertise. After a comprehensive consultation regarding your circumstances, we will help you make the right decision with investment or disposal in commercial property. Our primary focus is on sizeable land acquisition for developers, Hotel acquisitions, serviced apartments and condominiums. Thailand Estates is uniquely exposed to various investments and opportunities across Thailand. We concentrate on maturing tourist hotspots such as Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Samui and Pattaya. We have privileged local contacts so together with careful planning and knowledge of your requirements we will recognise if these opportunities are right for you. This is where we step in to assist. We will pre-screen opportunities before they are even presented to you. You can count on us and let us help you make the right choices!

Project Development Department The success of our previous projects is a testament to the capabilities of Thailand Estates’s Development Department. With it’s

own in-house contour and survey department and with outsourcing to only the most reputable construction companies and architects any project Thailand Estates undertakes is in more than capable hands from start to finish.

Marketing Services and Project Marketing Consultancy Services Our consultancy services are tailored to meet individual client needs and cover marketing research, audits, strategy, planning and implementation. Research/Audits • Evaluate market sectors to identify needs and opportunities • Competitor analysis • Customer attitude surveys • Evaluation of existing marketing operations Strategy/Planning • Define market opportunities • Formulate objectives • Prepare marketing plans • Develop marketing communication plans & budgets Implementation • Assist with implementation of marketing plans • Produce & manage promotional campaigns • Provide on-going mentoring/ support to develop and grow your business through the application of effective marketing • Support from the TEC International Network

Residential Sales Thailand Estates has an established reputation as the premier and only licensed and certified agency for residential property on Koh Samui. Since the start of the boom a few years ago Thailand Estates has been recognised as the benchmark that other firms aspire to. Catering for both expatriates and locals Thailand Estates offers complete sales packages, property searches, negotiation and legal referrals for both buyers and sellers of small to large scale properties.

Commercial Services Our commercial services team draws on it’s combined experience and knowledge of the market place to assist clients. We can help you find the most suitable location for your business and work together with

053

landlords, developers and retailers to obtain the most attractive package for all involved. We can also manage your commercial property, from small, individual units to entire commercial complexes.

Residential Leasing Thailand Estates’s rental department is continuously adapting to fit to the growing rental market on Koh Samui. With new developments springing up every day it requires an efficient team to acquire the latest luxury villas onto Thailand Estates’s listings as we aim to offer the widest range of rental properties on the island. Whether you are looking for a stunning sea view villa for your holiday or for residential housing for the short or long term we have a broad selection of properties. Our Villa Paradise section in this magazine features some of the most luxurious villas available.

Land Acquisition With an unrivalled coverage of the island and strong local contacts, Thailand Estates Corporation is well placed to assist prospective investors who are looking for more than a “brokerage” service. Through our local office in Samui, we have access through our vast resources and contacts to assist us in procuring real estate land acquisition opportunities. We can assist you from the initial stages of procuring the land, to obtaining all necessary permits and zoning requirements for your project. In some instance we may have an inventory of land that is already zoned for residential or commercial development. Whether you are looking for property to develop a residential project, resort or hotel development, our firm can assist you every step of the way. Our land acquisition services will assist you in finding the raw land that is right for your project and how to maximize your international real estate acquisition.

T.E.C. (ASIA) CO., LTD. 5/5 Moo 6, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320, Thailand T : 077 414 222, 077 414 333 F : 077 414 321 W : www.ThailandEstates.com E : contact@thailandestates.com

054

Investment opportunity

Suriyan Heights Koh Phangan, Thailand

Actual view to Koh Samui from Suriyan Heights project, Haad Rin, Koh Phangan

FREE Architect Drawings!!

SOLE AGENT Thailand Estates Corporation T : +66 (0) 77 414 222 or 414 333 F : +66 (0) 77 414 321 E : contact@thailandestates.com W : www.ThailandEstates.com

ntamed beauty and beaches of the purest sand are some of Koh Phangan’s charms. This idyllic, gradually developing island is synonymous with a relaxed, easy way of life and is increasingly favoured by Westerners both as a holiday destination and as a place to live.

Thailand Estates Corporation is developing 10 rai of some of the most stunning land plots in Thailand right on Koh Phangan’s south coast. Imagine a shoreline house with 25 meters of sea frontage. Across the water you will have a direct view of Koh Samui and behind you sloping hillside land with lush vegetation.

Prices are some of the lowest in the region and represent an outstanding opportunity to invest. Koh Phangan will be the next area to be developed after Koh Samui and represents an equally fine alternative. The island is up and coming and amongst its’ many modern conveniences you will find abundant water supplies, good ferry services and paved roads.

Just eight homes are to be built here and already seven have been sold. Of the original eight plots, six are now being marketed for resale as the owners wish to realise their profit of the past two years land appreciation.

Just eight homes are to be built here and already seven plots have been sold. This is a chance to actually own a dream tropical beach with both sunset and sunrise views.

Full infrastructure will be part of the purchase: an 8 meter concrete road as private access, 3 phase underground electricity and water supply. The price is 8 million Baht per rai.

1.25 Rai

This is a chance to actually own a dream tropical beach front property with both sunset and sunrise views.

8 Million THB per plot

Land listings

Location Laem Set

056

LS34769 Plot: 3 Rai 75 m. Frontage Very high potential Unique beachfront land Along the sea and a canal

● ● ● ●

Chanod (NS4J) Infrastructures nearby Amazing views of the mainland Close to a high-end villa

Location Koh Phangan

● ● ● ● ●

26 Million THB

LS9930800 ● ● ● ● ●

Plot: 9.5 Rai Topographic survey available Nice sunset views Panoramic sea views Direct access road from the main public Gvt concrete road

6.85 Million THB/Rai ● ● ● ●

Nor Sor Sam Kor 87 m. Beachfront Water & Electricity available onsite Between Haad Rin & Thongsala

057

Location Choeng Mon

Location Chaweng

Land listings

LS341863

● Chanod (NS4J) ● Sea views ● Reasonably quoted

● ● ● ●

Plot: 4 Rai Dirt road access Gentle slope plot Convenient & quiet

Price on application ● Chanod (NS4J) ● 2-minute drive to the beach ● Electricity nearby

Location Lipa Noi

Location Bophut

● Plot: 1,428 sq.m. ● Concrete road access ● Close to Ring Road ● Next to residential complex

3.8 Million THB LS341914

LS341866

● ● ● ●

● Nor Sor Sam Kor (NS3K) ● Concrete road access ● In a residential area

2.5 Million THB LS07441 ● ● ● ●

800,000 THB/Rai

Plot: 1.9 Rai Public road nearby Flat land / Ideal to build House plans on request

● Chanod (NS4J) ● Water well/ quiet area ● Finance options available ● Electricity close by

Location Laem Set

Location Lamai

Plot: 1 Rai Panoramic sea views Electricity nearby Below market value

LS341189 ● ● ● ●

Plot: 7.3 Rai Very reasonably quoted Short walk to the beach Full infrastructure

9.95 Million THB LS341913

● Chanod & NS3K ● Sea views from the top ● Water & electricity ● Concrete access road

● ● ● ●

Plot: 2,040 sq.m. In a residential area Electricity onsite Below market value

3.5 Million THB

● Chanod (NS4J) ● Next to small resort ● Easy access

WWW.THAILANDESTATES.COM CONTACT@THAILANDESTATES.COM TEL.

+66 077 414 222

Residential listings

Location Choeng Mon

058

HS341661

Built : 290 sq.m. ● Villa + Guest bungalow : 5 bedrooms ● Private pool with Jacuzzi ● Quiet residential area ● Satellite TV/High Speed Internet ● Storage room

15.5 Million THB

Plot : 924 sq.m. Large open living area with American kitchen (87sq.m) Beautiful tropical garden Parking for 3 cars/automatic sliding gate Own deep well

Location Bang Makham

● ● ● ● ● ●

HS99301135 ● ● ● ● ●

Built: 900 sq.m 3 Bedrooms Amazing sea views Infinity edge pool Home theatre

● ● ● ● ●

Plot: 1,292 sq.m. 3 Bathrooms Spacious living area Jacuzzi/Sala Maid room

25 Million THB

059

Location Bang Rak

Residential listings

HS301842

● ● ● ●

Duplexes for sale Amazing sea views 24-metre long pool High rental returns

Location Maenam

Location Lamai

● From 190 sq.m. living area ● Penthouses for sale ● 3 bedrooms en suite ● Prime location ● 2nd phase of successful development

From 12 Million THB

HS341890

● Built: 132 sq.m. ● 3 Bedrooms ● Spacious living room ● Vast terrace space ● Swimming pool

11 Million THB HS30902 ● Plot: 800 sq.m. ● 3 Bathrooms ● Inside & outside kitchens ● Fully furnished ● Vast landscaped garden

7.5 Million THB

● Plot: 490 sq.m ● 3 Beds/3 baths ● Completely furnished ● Tropical garden with lights ● Air con storage room ● Fully equipped western kitchen ● Car port ● 3-Phase wiring ● Ready to move-in ● Electric and water system redone

WWW.THAILANDESTATES.COM CONTACT@THAILANDESTATES.COM TEL.

+66 077 414 222

Commercial listings

Location Laem Set

060

BS191007

● 2-storey house ● 3 Bathrooms ● Investment opportunity ● 2 Extra apartments ● Successful business, easy to manage ● Company included

Location Bophut

Plot: 3,020 sq.m. 3 Bedrooms Close to the beach 18-hole mini golf course 38-seat bar & restaurant Company owned

1.2 Million Euros

Location Bophut

● ● ● ● ● ●

BS341671

25 Million THB/Freehold BS341706

● Fully operating hotel ● 7 Fully furnished rooms ● Swimming pool ● Very close to the beach ● Restaurant/bar area ● Lease options also available ● Exclusive location of Fisherman’s Village

27 Million THB/Key Money

● Yearly rentals: 0.9–1.3 Million THB ● 19-room hotel ● 17-year lease contract ● Swimming pool ● Across from the beach ● Exclusive location ● Fully equipped restaurant ● 3 Retail shops ● On 1 rai of land

061

Location Bophut

Location Plai Laem

Rentals listings

HR501630 4 Double bedrooms en suite Jacuzzi in the Master bedroom Outside lounge area & Sala Daily & monthly rates available 120 sq.m. Living, dining & kitchen

● 4 Bathrooms ● Breathtaking sea views ● 5 Mins from Golf Course ● Infinity pool & sundecks ● High-end luxury villaarea

● ● ● ● ●

4 Double bedrooms en suite Western kitchen, fully equipped Wifi Internet access Spacious terrace & BBQ area Private area on the beach

350-705 US$/Day ● Luxury modern bathrooms ● Satellite TV, DVD & music system ● Private infinity pool & sunloungers ● Large garden space

Location Bophut

Location Plai Laem

● ● ● ● ●

Price on application HR511874

HR701099 ● ● ● ● ●

550 – 1,450 US$/Day

4 Air-conditioned bedrooms Freeform pool w/diving platform Covered balcony & ground-level patio In-villa entertainment & Internet Villa manager available 24/7

● 3 of 4 bathrooms w/sea views ● Stunning ocean views ● Ground floor & upstairs kitchens ● Vast garden (villa built on 3 rais)

HR701066 ● ● ● ● ●

600 – 2,000 US$/Day

3 Separate sea view pavilions TV & DVD players in all bedrooms Large living/dining/kitchen areas Panoramic ocean views Entertainment incl. giant screen

● 5 Vast bedrooms en suite ● All bathrooms have bath tub ● Optimum comfort and privacy ● 17*7 metre infinity edge pool ● Villa manager available 24/7

WWW.THAILANDESTATES.COM CONTACT@THAILANDESTATES.COM TEL.

+66 077 414 222

062

Investment opportunity

Mont Tara Koh Samui, Thailand

Selling Fast...Over 80% Sold Out!.

ont Tara is considered one of the most successful land developments ever made on Koh Samui.

Mont Tara is considered one of the most successful land developments ever made on Koh Samui.

Beautiful, tropical views enjoyed on the North coast of Koh Samui dominate this incredible thirty rai piece of land situated in Bophut. Ten minutes from all amenities, including the famous Fisherman’s Village with its fine dining restaurants, Chaweng’s shopping centres and Choeng Mon’s silky white beaches.

There are now only 12 plots left in the developments and the project is expected to be sold out within the next 6 months as more and more astute investors are showing their interest.

The unobstructed and awe inspiring views take the dreamy eye across to Koh Phangan. Full infrastructure is provided as well as an 8m concrete road Perfectly suitable concept for you to build and realise your dream home.. SOLE AGENT Thailand Estates Corporation T : +66 (0) 77 414 222 or 414 333 F : +66 (0) 77 414 321 E : contact@thailandestates.com W : www.ThailandEstates.com

It is now the right time to invest in Mont Tara before another 10% price increase. Construction on some plots has already started with one already completed.

Do not miss this unique opportunity to own your piece of paradise. Thailand Estates Corporation is proud to announce that a 8-metre wide concrete road now connects the main Samui Ring Road to the entrance of the project thus making Mont Tara the most accessible sea view development in Bophut!!

Starting From 2.4 Million THB