ISSUE 6 VOLUME 7 JUNE 2019
H
T MAGAZINE
Luxury Living & Exclusive Lifestyle
Records Set
At 2019 Samui Regatta
HOT MAGAZINE
2019 Hua Hin International
Jazz Festival
A Conversation With Smith Obayawat
M/Y
COMPLIMENTARY COPY
Spectre & Benetti Win Big
如何像房屋猎人一样思考 www.hotmagazine.website
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EDITORS
NOTE
W
elcome to Issue 6, Volume 7. Hua Hin is used to hearing Jazz in the air. In the January 10th 2006 edition of the Bangkok Post Newspaper, an article appeared with the title “The Jazzy King.” The article described how on Saturday nights a group of some 10 professional and amateur musicians, most in their 60s and 70s, gathered together near the beach in Hua Hin at a place called Klai Kang Won for a jazz rendezvous. On the saxophone was none other than His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Until the wee hours of Sunday morning, the King and his Au Sau Wan Suk Band members would fill the sultry air of Hua Hin with smooth jazz from a wide selection of styles: Dixieland, New Orleans, Big Band chart-toppers: sometimes with an interlude of one of the King’s own compositions. On June 7th & 8th Jazz music once again returned to Hua Hin, this time in the form of the 15th annual Hua Hin International Jazz Festival. Festival goers experienced music ranging from Latin jazz, jazz fusion and big band jazz to R&B, reggae, and ska from a diverse array of seasoned Jazz talent. Dig out your beach mat and turn to page 40 to see what you missed or relive it if you were there. Located on the east side of the Malaysian Peninsular on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, most people pass through Chumphon on their way to its more popular neighbors such as Phuket, Koh Samui or Koh Pha Ngan but few choose to stay. Like its name (Chumphon means lots of blessings) Chumphon is a hidden gem, roughly 500 km south of Bangkok, it is a quiet beach town with amazing snorkeling sites, mountainside viewpoints and over 200 km of coastline worth exploring. The Chumphon coast boasts several long and underrated stretches of sand drawing only a trickle of Thais and very few foreign travellers. Fish out your beach bucket and shovel and turn to page 48 for this month’s “Let’s Go.”
H
T MAGAZINE
Luxury Living & Exclusive Lifestyle
Edited and published by HOT Hua Hin Co. Ltd. Although all materials are published in good faith and based on information solicited to us at the time of publication, the publisher takes no responsibility for any errors, loss or omissions that may occur. No part of this publication may be reproduced in full or in part without the previous written consent of HOT Hua Hin Co. Ltd. All materials copyright. All rights are reserved.
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The Office of Bangkok Architects, better known as OBA, are masters of distinctive architectural designs across Thailand and beyond. Founder, Principal and Managing Director of OBA, Smith Obayawat fuses form with function, creating a structure of contemporary sophistication. A well-known lecturer and leading figure in Thai architecture circles, Smith Obayawat is renowned for his rich portfolio of boutique hotels, commercial properties and exclusive country clubs. He has won numerous awards as well as the design competition for the Thailand Pavilion at Expo Milano 2015. Turn to page 62 as this month, HOT Magazine is thrilled to sit down with Smith Obayawat to discuss his life’s journey & his passions. On April 10th at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel in Singapore, the Italian luxury motoryacht company Benetti won the “Best Custom-Built Yacht” prize for the M/Y Spectre. A month later,the iconic 69-meter Benetti won another prestigious award. This time, M/Y Spectre cast its spell over the designers, architects and yachting experts that were part of the jury of Boat International, one of the world’s most highly respected yachting magazines, who gave the yacht the World Superyacht Award. If you don’t already have your deck shoes on, go do so and then turn to page 70 to see why even James Bond would want to take this baby for a spin. Those are just a few of the stories you’ll find inside this month’s issue. As always, thanks for picking us up and we hope you enjoy the read.
MANAGING & CREATIVE EDITOR Tanya Siri Vijitsomphong tanya@hothuahin.com GRAPHIC DESIGN & LAYOUT DEEPMIX MEDIA www.deepmixmedia.com PHOTOGRAPHER Sunya Yamaka facebook.com/sunya.yamaka
Tanya Siri Vijitsomphong Editor, HOT Magazine
CONTACT INFORMATION Contact us to find out how to get the most for your advertising baht: sales@hothuahin.com +66 (0)84 387 5699 info@hothuahin.com www.hotmagazine.website Follow us on Facebook for more photos & upcoming events: HotMagazineHuahinBangkok
What's inside...
& Benetti Win Big
如何像房屋猎人一样思考 作者:Russ Downing
Smith Obayawat
Hua Hin International Jazz Festival
Chumphon
The 2019 Samui Regatta
Records Set At
Music Flows At The 2019
Let’s Go
48
A Conversation With
M/Y Spectre
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76 62 40 34
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Model: Jessica McKenna MUA: Kaithong​ Photographers: Sunya Yamake Supphachat Khomkow Location: Surf & Sand Resort Hua Hin
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Surf & Sand Resort is ideal for Individual golfers and groups. They also welcome those looking for a family adventure to couples and friends seeking a Thai flavored relaxing escape, Surf & Sand Resort Hua Hin has you covered. HOT Magazine
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Model: Jessica McKenna MUA: Kaithong​ Photographers: Sunya Yamake Supphachat Khomkow Location: Surf & Sand Resort Hua Hin
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HUA HIN
Premium Location Superior Quality Stunning Views Close to Banyan Golf Course 5 min to Blu Port shopping mall as well as town centre and beach NEW RELEASE
NEW RELEASE
WINNER
WINNER
BEST RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT (Hua Hin)
BEST HOUSING DEVELOPMENT (Hua Hin)
Fa lc on Hill By Fa lco n Hill De ve lo p me n t L imite d
Fa lc on Hill By Fa lco n Hill De ve lo p me n t L imite d
2018
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HOT AROUND HUA HIN
Hua Hin Business Network May Event held at Avani+ Hua Hin On the 24th of May the Hua Hin Business Network hosted their monthly wine evening at the Avani+ Hua Hin’s Blue Biscuit. The evening was well hosted by Avani with drinks including Sparkling Wine and great food including live food stations. The Hua Hin Business Network (HHBN) is a non- profit organization for like-minded people who are working & living in Hua Hin, Cha Am & Pranburi to socialize and network. To see what Hua Hin Business Network is all about come join the monthly networking events by going to Facebook “Hua Hin Business Network” Page under events, or go to www.hh-b-n.com for more information.
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Rotary Installation Sets A New Course Saturday 1st June 2019 marked the Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin’s (RCRHH) 10th Annual Club Officer Installation Dinner held in the Ballroom of the Amari Hua Hin Resort & Spa. The occasion saw the new President for the year 2019-20 Napa Keawtem, presented with the President’s Jewel. P Napa breaks two records in becoming President, the first Thai to hold the office in the English speaking club and the first female to do so in RCRHH. Napa was born in Bangkok, and worked for many years in the airline industry. She took early retirement in 2012 after 25 years in the airlines and moved to Hua Hin five years ago. The airline industry’s loss is Rotary’s gain as Napa’s main hobby now is the RCRHH, where she has been the Community Service Projects Chairman for the past two years overseeing the disbursement of RCRHH’s fundraising on the many worthwhile projects undertaken by the club. In her spare time P Napa takes care of her dog of whom she is very fond. A total of 120 guests and VIPs attended the grand occasion and included the Rotary 3330 District Governor Lt Gen Kanit Jamjuntra and Mrs Chadarat, District Governor Elect Sakon Uengsroithong and Mrs Sirapat as well as members from the Rotary Clubs of Bangkok, Bangkok South, Hua Hin, Pran Buri, Petchaburi, Nakorn Sri Weerathai and the Rotaract Clubs of Stamford International University and Webster University.
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Guests were entertained before dinner by Jacques and his sax, and following the National Anthems sat down to one of Amari’s renowned International Buffets, and freeflow wine, beer and beverages, with musical background provided by DeeJay Mark from Take 5. Following dinner entertainment was provided by the excellent ensemble from Stamford International University who completed a traditional Thai dance, Rum Upsarasaran, followed by a wellreceived rendition of Gangnam Style! Napa Keawtem then gave a presentation on Community Service Projects completed this year including a donation of bicycles to local children, a Childrens’ Day at Panyanakul School, new playground and Monkey Library at Ban Nongkhon School, recyclable bags and numerous other projects. The total for 2018-19 spent on projects was a staggering THB 1,070,377.00. Total Project Outgoings 2018-19 1,070,377.00 THB • Hua Hin Hospital - Nerve Stimulator 50,000 • Hua Hin Hospital - Flexible Fibre Optic Bronchoscope 215,160 • Hua Hin Hospital - 10 Computer Donation 150,000 • Cambodia Academy Sponsorship 37,175 • Children Playground Nongkhon School 341,300 • Tubercolosis Event Hua Hin Hospital 20,000
• Bridging the Silence - Rotary Club Nakhon Khon Kaen 15,000 • Love Hua Hin Event - Sponsoring Drinks and Snacks 10,830 • Beaumont Partnership Foundation The Lighthouse Foundation 10,000 • Food for Orphan Children Day with Rotaract Stamford 24,400 • RC Bangkok South Golf Tournament - Hole Sponsorship 10,000 • Re-usable Shopping Bags 26,000 • La Grappa's Charity Golf Tournament - Hole Sponsorship 15,000 • Bicycle Donation on Children's Day with RCHH 15,000 • Rotary Education Centre Project 3,220 • Nun's Dog Shelter Pranburi Donation of a new Generator 29,000 • Childrens Day at Payanukul School 51,192 • Joint District Project for Hospitals in Yala 2,000 • Donation of 195 Back Packs for Boarder Patrol Schools - Rotaract 35,100 • International Charity Night Rotaractors of Stamford - Costume Prizes 10,000 Then came outgoing President Brian Anderson who has been President of RCRHH for the past year and served the club well during his time in office and for the second
time in the club’s 10 year history. In his farewell Brian paid tribute to members of the Board in his usual humorous style, explaining a good set of committees had made his work so much easier. He also presented both Gentleman and Lady ‘Rotarian of the Year’ awards to Treasurer Peter Wydler and Rotarian Benjamas Uamsa-Ard for their untiring efforts to the club. Next to speak were the District Governor and District Governor Elect, who praised the RCRHH by saying they enjoyed their visits and that the club rated amongst one on the top in District 3330. They both also paid tribute to the amount of project work undertaken to help those less fortunate in the local area. This was followed by the main event, the installation ceremony, during which the Presidential Jewel was passed from outgoing President Brian to President Napa by the District Governor. In saying a few words Napa very clearly described the meaning of Rotary, what it stands for and what it achieves internationally. Flower bouquets were presented to Napa, Mrs Chadarat Jamjuntra and Mrs Sirapat Uengsroithong. Thus begins a new Rotary year for RCRHH with still much work to be done. The RCRHH will continue to play its role in helping to make the lives of the less fortunate more healthful, pleasurable and independent.
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Panorama Grand Opening On May 18th, Hua Hin businessman, developer and politician, Khun Udorn Olsson held an open house for over 100 guests at the showhome of his latest Development, Panorama Black Mountain. Following the success of his last Panorama project in Khao Tao, Khun Udorn has announced a total of 3 new developments adding Palm Hills Prestige and Palm Hills Premiere to his development plans. Panorama Black Mountain offers 29 plots ranging in size from 409 sqm’s to 615 sqm’s with a current promoted sales price of 7,700,000 THB. Palm Hills Prestige offers 15 plots from 414 sqm to 757 sqm in size with a starting price of 9,350,000 THB. Khun Udorn’s luxury project, Palm Hills Premiere has just 7 large plots available starting from 1,625 sqm’s in size with houses starting at 21,650,000 THB.
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HOT AROUND BANGKOK
PROUD Unveils its Residential Real Estate Development Plan Proud Real Estate Public Company Limited has announced its plan to enter the residential market under the concept of “MORE THAN JUST LIVING”. The plan unveiled at a press conference in Bangkok on May 22nd aims to provide home buyers with a new living solution that combines a resort experience into everyday living. Targeted destinations of Thailand include Bangkok, Phuket and Hua Hin focusing on the high end and luxury segment. The Company projects approximately THB 10 billion in accumulative sales over the next 5 years. The first project will be a luxury development on the Hua Hin beach. The second will be adjacent to Vana Nava Water Jungle. Ms. Proudputh Liptapanlop, Executive Director of Proud Real Estate stated that, “From our previous experience in leisure and hospitality in major tourist destinations of Thailand such as Hua Hin and Phuket, we recognized a gap in the market that resulted from a trend shift driven by
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a growing number of foreign and millennial buyers looking for second homes”. Such demand growth meant that the residential market in these key locations have grown rapidly. Based on information from the Real Estate Information Center of Thailand, the total number of units transferred in key resort destinations including Chiangmai, Samui (Suratthani), Krabi, Phuket, Pattaya (Chonburi) and Hua Hin (Prachuabkirikhan) grew on average 29% per year between 2016 - 2018 compared to the Country’s average growth rate of 20%. Total transferred value in 2018 also totaled THB 51.656 billion. To better serve this market, PROUD plans to launch a new product under the concept of “MORE THAN JUST LIVING” that seamlessly blends leisure and service aspects of hospitality into everyday living, providing an immersive experience with nature that maintains the integrity and the luxuries of modern day living.
The Company also intends to deploy technology to further enhance the living experience. MS. Proudputh stated that “We will focus on the premium and luxury segment as our main target group. Prices will start from about THB 100,000 – 300,000 per square meter in the resort destinations and about THB 150,000 – 350,000 per square meter in Bangkok (with price per unit starting around THB 4 million). It will be practical in size and a worthwhile investment – true to our “MORE THAN JUST LIVING” lifestyle.” Mr. Pasu Liptapanlop, Executive Director of Proud Real Estate mentioned, “As a result of the upcoming mega infrastructure projects by government to further promote tourism in Hua Hin, I am confident that Hua Hin will continue to grow and will likely be completely transformed in the next five years.” Key infrastructure projects announced by the government include the Thailand Riviera project, which aims to promote a new route of
HOT AROUND BANGKOK tourism along the Thai southern coast line from Petchburi to Ranong, and major transportation developments such as the Nakhonpathom - Cha Am Motorway, the High-Speed Train & the Dual Rail Train. Hua Hin’s airport has also been allocated a budget for further expansion to accommodate incoming daily international fights that have started since the beginning of the year. About PROUD’s first two projects in Hua Hin, Mr Pasu said “The first will be a luxury development on the Hua Hin beach which will be launched within 2019. The second project, which is a waterpark resort condo project adjacent to Vana Nava Water Jungle will be launched in 2020. Estimated sales value of the two projects will be around THB 5.5 billion. After which, we target further an estimation of at least THB 4 to 6 billion in sales, resulting in a total sales value of THB 10 billion within five years. We strongly believe
that our concept will be a key unique selling point in both resort and urban locations particularly Bangkok.” Mr. Sarath Pavorndechapong, Managing Director, Proud Real Estate Public Company Limited (PROUD), expressed his confidence in Hua Hin and talked of the Company’s sales and marketing strategy. “From our past records, there is a continuing growth in terms of the number of both inbound and outbound tourists to Hua Hin, which has been reflected in the hotels’ rising performance. This increase in visitors has also stimulated the real estate sector in the area. Nonetheless, there is limited supply in the upper segment despite an increase demand due to shortage of land in prime locations especially along the coastline. According to a study done by Colliers International Thailand, there were only 65 unsold units in the price range of above THB
10 million in 2018 suggesting that there is untapped demand in the luxury segment , which in turn drove the resale price of that market to as high as THB 250,000 per sqm. In launching our first two projects, we also plan to do copromotion with our business alliances to deliver a unique living experience and privileges for PROUD buyers true to the spirits of our company’s slogan, “MORE THAN JUST LIVING”.
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HOT AROUND BANGKOK
Philip B, Cindy Bishop, Sonia Pim Couling, Bryant Olson
PHILIP B Thailand 5 Year Anniversary On May 27th 2019 a celebration was held to honor the 5th Anniversary of PHILIP B. launching in Thailand. PHILIP B. held an event called “HI Tea with PHILIP B.” in collaboration with the luxurious new Rosewood Bangkok hotel. Philip B, the professional name of Philip Berkovitz, has garnered international praise for his visionary approach to hair, scalp and bodycare treatments. His award-winning blends, all based on pure botanicals and essential oils at potent, unheardof-in-the-industry concentrations, have dramatically changed the way the world perceives luxury care for hair and skin. Philip B’s hair-care products are some of the most expensive in the world. Forbes Magazine was so impressed with his products that they placed Philip B’s scalp treatment on their list of “100 Things Worth Every Penny.” Philip counts Royal households and over 400 celebrities using his products daily including Lady Gaga, Madonna, Drew Barymore, Sandra Bullock, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Ronnie Wood to name just a few.
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HOT AROUND BANGKOK Thirty-five celebrity guests were invited to enjoy an afternoon tea with Philip at the Nan Bei restaurant on the 19th floor of the Rosewood Bangkok. Philip gave a warm welcome and emotional speech about the brand and on how he started developing his product line over the last thirty years. Guests also enjoyed a speech by Mr. Bryant Olson the Thai distributor of PHILIP B who chatted about starting with one counter at the Emporium Department Store and has grown the brand to over 17 retail locations over the last 5 years. Guests included; Sonya Singha, Cindy Sirinya Bishop, Sonia Pim Couling, Piyarat Kaijareuk, Bobby Sombatyanuchit, Orawan Ingkhasit Olivia, Fay Onchuma Durongdej, Alisa Boonyachinda and many others.
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Koi Turns One
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S
ince its inception in Los Angeles in 2002, KOI has been continuously recognized as a top destination for contemporary Japanese dining in Los Angeles, New York, Las Vegas, Abu Dhabi and in Bangkok. With its fresh take on Japanese fare and its alluring Feng Shui designs, KOI built on their success in the City of Angels, Los Angeles. Koi opened their newest outlet in Sathorn Square a year ago and it has become a diverse hotbed of models, artists, the who’s who of Bangkok and business elites flying in from all corners of the globe. On May 10, Koi’s Sathorn restaurant celebrated its first anniversary with a mad party attended by ambassadors, dignitaries, VIPs and media followed by a sensational fashion show showcasing the latest collection “Single and available” by Munchu’s and capped by a live performance by Way Thaitanium Nestled in Bangkok’s most prestigious district and adjacent to the extensive space that is now The Club @ KOI, KOI restaurant boasts a décor by the renowned local interior design outfit Studio Fifty Four that is contemporary but softened with natural accents—wooden floors, tables and wall panels, leather upholstered seats and banquettes and light shades fashioned like woven baskets. However, under the theme of “neon summer” to herald in the new season, that night the restaurant and club was set straight out of a scene of Midsummer Night’s Dream, with an explosion of riotous color in shades of fuchsia, magenta, green, pink and violet with flowers, LEDs and tea lights. With most of Asia’s elite in attendance, the extensive guest list also included dignitaries from Myanmar, Switzerland, Japan, Austria, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Spain, United Kingdom, Portugal and Greece. Not surprising, considering KOI’s emphasis on design, intimacy and style in California have attracted celebrities from George Clooney to Madonna and Bangkok is no exception. Expertly crafted under the experienced eye of executive chef Hisashi Iwata and served by the talented team of KOI, the dinner menu included some of KOI’s signature dishes such as the world famous KOI Geleno roll, the miso bronzed black cod and creamy white shrimp tempura, washed down with refreshing summery peach Bellini’s.
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Opening the show at 9:30 pm, produced by Sara Kondal, were dancers choreographed by Ida Victoria Nowakowska—the far-famed Polish ballerina who’s also a prestigious judge and a choreographer of Poland’s So You Think You Can Dance. The show continued with a performance by a sensational chalice dancer in a huge glass set against a backdrop of magenta orchids, frangipanis and peonies blooming like a magical garden. Following the beautiful opening, a hush descended before the first model filed down the catwalk to kick start the fashion show which showcased Munchu’s new collection “Single and Available” in the most festive setting. Swaying between brutal femininity and angular boyish-ness, Munchu’s women are sexy, daring and empowered by a subtle mix of male uniformity. Called out by Harper’s Bazaar as one of the most influential designers in Thailand, Munchumart Numbenjapol is a fashion force to be reckoned with on the global scene. The night ended with a frenetic performance by Thailand’s own Way Thaitanium that had everyone one off their seats and already looking forward to Koi’s 2nd Anniversary. Offering breath-taking views of Bangkok’s skyline, this exclusive event took place on the 39th Floor of the Sathorn Square Building. KOI’s Bangkok home emphasis atmosphere as much as cuisine, an unmatched visceral dining experience that firmly establishes Koi as a leading global hospitality brand.
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Bus service between Suvarnabhumi airport and Hua Hin Also direct bus service between Hua Hin and Pattaya
06:00 11:30 16:00
07:00 12:00 17:00
08:00 13:00 18:00
09:00 14:00
10:00 15:00
Night Market Hua Hin Soi 72
Hua Hin Soi 76
Hua Hin Train Station Marketplace
Direct Between Hua Hin and Pattaya 11:00 from both sides
New Bus Station
Hua Hin Soi 1
Hua Hin Soi 96
Petchkasem Road.
From : Hua Hin - Suvarnabhumi Airport
Mercedes-Benz Show Room Post Office Konceptfurniture
Hua Hin Airport
Hua Hin Soi 2
Phra Poklao Road.
From : Suvarnabhumi Airport - Hua Hin 06:30 07:30 08:30 10:00 10:30 11:30 12:30 13:30 14:30 15:30 16:30 17:30 18:30
Go to Chaam
Tunnel
Klai Kangwon Palace Hua Hin Soi 57
Clock Tower
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L et’s Eat, Hua Hin
Father Ted's
D
o you ever find yourself hungry, but have no idea what type of food you want? If this happens to you, then let us introduce you to a restaurant with excellent food covering a variety of food types, right in the centre of Hua Hin. Father Ted’s is an Irish Pub and restaurant on Damnernkasem Road (Soi 61) just opposite the Hua Hin Police Station which gets great crowds almost every day. Pub restaurant meals, from this
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writer’s experience, can be hit and miss. However, Father Ted’s left our group with a very positive impression of their food and service during a recent visit. Their very extensive menu takes you on a tour of their favourite world cuisines. In the menu, there’s a page devoted to British and Irish style Chinese dishes, a full page each for Mexican, Italian, plus Thai dishes. Add to that, a page of British and Irish pub food Specialities, and a Steak menu with beef imported from Australia
as well as grilled Salmon. Extremely comprehensive for a Pub restaurant. Just wanting something light? Not to worry, there’s a selection of favourite bar snacks and sandwiches to fill that desire. Our Father Ted’s food journey started with Vegetarian Spring Rolls, and the Caesar Salad with Smoked Salmon from the Starters menu – both high in quality and taste. The Caesar Salad was a generous size, and the
HOT MAGAZINE RECOMMEND Smoked Salmon added a sense of luxury to the dish. From the Western Style, Chinese menu, we chose the Salt and Chilli Ribs. Great tasting ribs with a subtle spice hit served on wok tossed sweet peppers and onion. Very tasty and worth getting your hands dirty for! Our main dishes took us around the world. First stop - Mexico with Father Ted’s Chicken Fajitas. Perfectly grilled strips of chicken topped with melted cheese served on sliced and grilled peppers and onions. To accompany,
warm tortillas plus four sides – Salsa, Spanish rice, refried beans, and sour cream. From their Speciality menu, the very British Fish and Chips. Beer battered Sea Bass, home-made chips, and whole peas – served with Tartare sauce, a lemon wedge and a green salad garnish. Crispy light batter and nicely cooked fish plus great chips. An alltime favourite for many. Australia was our final stop on the
main course dishes with Filet Mignon! 250 grams of imported tenderloin wrapped in bacon grilled to our desire, and served with sautéed asparagus, a generous serve of rosemary and garlic potato mash, and a small mixed leaf salad. The Filet Mignon and the other grilled meats on this menu come with a choice of eight sauces. We chose Pepper Sauce. All members of our group tasted this steak and in unison agreed – one of the best and most tender steaks we’ve had in Thailand. Outstanding!
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The dessert selection is simple and covers the bases. Our group sampled three – the Apple & Rhubarb Crumble served warm with ice-cream and whipped cream; a Chocolate Brownie, drizzled with chocolate sauce for added indulgence and accompanied by vanilla ice-cream and cream; and a Thai favourite Mango and Sticky Rice. If you are looking for breakfast, then Father Ted’s can help with that. Breakfast is available from 9:00 am from Friday to Wednesday, and 10 am Thursdays. Starting with simple offerings like Muesli, fresh fruit, and the like through to a Full Irish Fry-up called “The Works”. It promises toast, Black Pudding, two types of sausage, two types of bacon, two eggs, hash browns, baked beans and fried tomato, with tea or coffee to wash it down. There is also a Vegetarian breakfast Fry-up!
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Opened in December 2016, Father Ted’s has been entertaining guests with live music every night, and special guest performers weekly. Every Saturday night the Soul, Jazz & Blues band “Remix” draws a good crowd. The highly popular “Bangkok Beetles Band” are also regulars at Father Ted’s playing every Wednesday night and almost always packing the place. For sports fans, it’s also one of the best Sports Bars to get your fix of the most popular sports from around the world. Happy Hour is available from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm Monday to Friday and upstairs you’ll find a Pool Table for those wanting to test their skills. Further information and contact details for Father Ted’s can be found at facebook.com/fathertedsthailand Next time you are hungry but don’t know what you are in the mood for, think Father Ted’s. By Michael Cullen
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Spa InterContinental at InterContinental Hua Hin Resort
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rriving Spa InterContinental, I step from the tropical heat and ambient traffic noise of central Hua Hin into a serene space. Dark timber wall panels of an Oriental style cover the walls – blending aspect of Thai, Balinese and Japanese themes distinctively. Soft natural light, coming from the floor to ceiling drape covered windows, reflects off the rosewood coloured timber flooring adding further to the subtle warmth of this space. Generous sized comfortable lounge seating in subdued tones are set up in groups two or three creating quiet pre-treatment consultation spaces. All of this is the large and welcoming reception area of Spa InterContinental at InterContinental Hua Hin Resorts. Comforted with a cooling towel, nourished by mini melon fruit sticks, and fortified via a glass of chilled Bael Fruit (Stone apple) tea, my spa
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journey commences. As it is my first visit, Spa Manager ‘Apple’ explains the Spa’s Signature Rituals, and I decide on a 90-minute “Oriental Signature Massage”. Escorted to one of the Spas six treatment rooms, therapist ‘Fon’ takes charge. Once I’m changed into the soft cotton bathrobe ‘Fon’ begins the treatment with a ceremonial foot bath of warm water and stones for their stimulating benefits. I’m in one of their Couples treatment rooms. Of generous proportions and separated into two zones thanks to the clever use of the ‘Oriental’ panels as a divide. On one half is what seems like a four-person hot tub. Immediately inviting, though not applicable for today’s treatment. Our focus is on the other half of the room where two massage tables stand at the rooms centre, with ample space
between allowing the therapists ease of movement. The “Oriental Signature Massage” combines massage techniques and warmed massage balms to invigorate the body while rejuvenating the mind and body thanks to increased blood circulation. Shiatsu ‘finger pressure’ movements add elements of stretching on pressure points. Thai techniques focus on relaxation and stimulation, while the Balinese massaging helps relax tense muscle tissue through kneading and long strokes with gentle stretching. And 90 minutes later I am left in a state of total bliss. In fact, I don’t want to leave the massage table, afraid this sense of glorious well-being may slip away. It seems that no matter your wellbeing needs, there is a treatment for you.
Tailored Facials perhaps, specialist Body Scrubs or detoxing Body Wraps, to the ultimate in Hand and Foot care in the Spa’s dedicated manicure and pedicure treatment rooms. Or maybe you can combine selected elements to create your own package. The ultimate in pampering ‘self-care’! From the massage treatments, another offering that caught my interest was the “Re-balancing Massage”. Either a 60 or 90 full body massage. An oil massage, combining Swedish and Aromatherapy massage technique. The scent of lavender & lime helps with relaxation and stress relief, while the massage assists blood circulation. A treatment said to assist in reducing insomnia. I learn that many of the oils and skincare products used at Spa InterContinental are by Aromatherapy Associates. A body and skincare
company with a 30-year history, combining expertly blended essential oils with unique active botanicals that are said to result in beautiful, glowing, healthy free from harsh chemicals and unnecessary synthetics. Aromatherapy Associates products are now featured in exclusive hotels, spas like Spa InterContinental, and retail outlets in over 50 countries worldwide. If reading this has stimulated your desire for relaxation and a chance to escape, then check out the June and July special spa offers. They promise to energise your body, mind and spirit with these treatments. Choose from a “Taste of Siam” 60-minute massage; a 90 minute “Thai Herbal Balm Massage”; or a 90 minute “Thai Herbal Compress”.
my treatment session concluded very nicely with a warm towel, refreshing and health assisting ginger tea, and some light local Thai snacks. I departed Spa InterContinental after this first visit with a new state of well-being and calm – ready to again ventured into the outside world. Spa InterContinental at InterContinental Hua Hin Resort operates from 10.00 am - 10.00 pm daily. Additional Spa information can be found on the hotels website, www. huahin.intercontinental.com For reservations or enquiries call 032 616 999 spa extension 6341 or email spa@ichuahin.com By Michael Cullen
When finally persuaded it was OK to get up off the massage table, and I was coaxed back to the reception space,
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Records Set At The 2019 Samui Regatta
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around Austral-Asia and organisers welcomed over 20 nationalities of competitors in what is also the seasonending event in the 2018/19 Asian Yachting Grand Prix.
Known for its high calibre of racing and tropical-chic parties, the Samui Regatta is popular with sailors from
Samui Regatta, however, isn't all about the racing. The social scene is a big part of the Tropical Island Regatta's appeal for the international crews. The boost to the local community from
sia's favourite “Tropical Island Regatta” the Samui Regatta returned to Samui Island's shores May 25th to June 1st. This year the regatta was based at a new venue, the stunning 5-star Synergy Samui Resort.
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accommodation and money spent on the island by the 500-plus participants and friends is significant and a real boost to the local economy. Race Day 1 saw Race Officer Ross Chisholm and his team head north of Chaweng to set the day’s startline off the northern coastline. IRC racers, (“IRC” is a rating rule to handicap different designs of keelboats allowing
them to race together), were given two Windward/Leewards while the Premier divisions and IRC Cruising class were sent on a longer course taking in the scenic outlying islands and gin-clear waters for which Samui is justifiably famous.
laps less than 20 seconds separated the top two. Ray Roberts' Team Hollywood (AUS) edged out THA 72 to take the win. Freefire (HKG) jumped up into third with Jelik snatching fourth, just fifteen seconds ahead of WindSikher on corrected time.
With the wind splitting the fleet so dramatically in Race 1, the course was re-laid for the second race and after two
Going into the final day, after four days of racing, just 0.5 points separated the top two in IRC Zero with THA72
having the edge over Team Hollywood (AUS). One mistake, one bad call could decide the regatta. Looking through the scoresheet, the story for the entire class is one of close racing: all six entries made it onto the podium during the regatta; with four winning at least one race; and in Race 5 Jelik (HKG) and THA72 actually tied on corrected time. It doesn't get much closer than that!
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Needing a win on the final race day, the pressure was on Team Hollywood. THA72 got off to the worst possible start at the back of the pack while Team Hollywood screamed off the line and lead up the first leg, with Jelik and Zannekin (HKG) also in the mix. All changed on the downwind leg and the next leg upwind as THA72, with Noppakao Poonpat back at the helm after being out the day before passed all in front to take the lead and sail a clean race to the finish. First across the line and a win on corrected time was the perfect outcome for THA72. Elsewhere in the class, Zannekin (HKG) got the better of Freefire (HKG) to finish third and fourth respectively, while Jelik corrected out in fifth. With clouds sitting over the shoreline sucking away the breeze, the course area was beginning to look a lot like a lake, forcing the Race Officer's hand. With nothing on the horizon, the decision was made at 12:45 that there would be no more racing at the 2019 Samui Regatta. With that decision, at the end of eight races for IRC Zero, Kevin and Tom Whitcraft's THA72 were declared the winners of the 2019 Samui Regatta – their fourth consecutive win and a new record. In IRC 1, despite having sealed the win the day before, Mandrake III (HKG) were back on the course. A final race win was fitting for the unbeaten Mandrake III giving them seven wins from seven races and defending their title in the process. Another second place for Fujin (AUS) was enough for them to claim second overall, while a third place for Tenacious (AUS) ensured they held off the charge by Over Here (THA), who had to settle for fourth overall. A shortened course for the IRC Premier boats appeared to open a chink in the armor of series-leaders Bella Uno (MAS) who, having won all races coming into the final day, had to settle for a second place finish in the last race of the series. It wasn't enough, however, to change the overall outcome as they comfortably won the series. Meanwhile, Lawana (THA) and Moonblue 2 (HKG) enjoyed some close racing during the week, and Lawana's win on the final day – their first in the series – gave them the edge, finishing in second place three points ahead of Moonblue 2 in third.
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The Open 60, Scallywag Fuku Bld 60 (HKG), left the rest of the NHC Premier Open Division in their wake, finishing almost 50 minutes ahead of the next boat and correcting out for a win by 20 minutes. This bumped them up to second place tied with Lawana. Scallywag Fuku Bld 60 claimed second overall due to their win the final race. Damage to SailQuest Hi Jinks (USA) during day four’s races meant they did not start, leaving the final day to be a two-boat shoot out in IRC Cruising. A win in the final race for MoonShadow2 (THA) made it their second in the series but it just wasn't enough. They had to settle for second overall, just one point behind class winners Graffiti (THA) who was competing for the first time in the regatta under the new ownership of Andre Den Braven. The Samui Regatta brought to a close a long season of yacht racing in the region and the AsianYachting Grand Prix 2018/19, with the awarding of the AYGP Skipper of the Year. This year's winners of the “hardest sports trophy to win in Asia” were Ray Roberts and Team Hollywood – their fourth win in the championship's 17 year history.
Top three finishers in each class: IRC Zero • THA72, Kevin & Tom Whitcraft (10.5) • Team Hollywood, Ray Roberts (12) • Zannekin, Marcel Liedts (20)
IRC 1 • Mandrake III, Nick Burns/Fred Kinmonth (6) • Fujin, Timothy Fox (12) • Tenacious, Hugh Haliburton (19)
IRC Cruising • Graffiti, Andre Den Braven (7) • MoonShadow 2, Mick Grover (8) • SailQuest Hi Jinks, Capt Tim (13 For more information: www.samuiregatta.com www.facebook.comSamuiRegatta www.twitter.com/samuiregatta www.samuiregatta.com/media/video All photos by Samui Regatta Dates for next year’s Sami Regatta are set for May 23 to 30th at Synergy Samui Resort.
• IRC Premier Monohull Division • Bella Uno, Mike Brinkers (5) • Lawana, Pana Trugkabuncher (10) • Moonblue 2, Peter Churchouse (13)
NHC Premier Open Division • Bella Uno, Michiel Brinkers (6) • Scallywag Fuku Bld 60, David Witt (12) • Lawana, Pana Trugkabuncher (12)
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Music Flows At The 2019 Hua Hin International Jazz Festival
C
ould the Hua Hin International Jazz Festival become THE Jazz festival in SE Asia? That’s undoubtedly what leading Thai jazz musician Koh Mr. Saxman told audiences on the first night of the 2019 Hua Hin International Jazz Festival. And with an estimated 10,000 people catching the 50 diverse jazz performances over two nights and two
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stages, organisers can be inspired that such a bold declaration is possible. In its 15th year, 2019 festival goers experienced music ranging from Latin jazz, jazz fusion and big band jazz to R&B, reggae, and ska from a diverse array of seasoned Jazz talent. The Hua Hin International Jazz Festival is unique in that the two-day event
is FREE. The fact that outstanding numbers of locals and visitors made their way to Hua Hin’s main beach over the two nights highlights how this accessibility to world-class jazz, is much appreciated. The setting, right on the beach, with the grand stage pride of place. No arranged seating stage front – simply put down your beach mat and settle
in for the night. Screens spaced along the beach keep the crowd up close to what’s happening on stage. Positioned along the beach, Jazz themed art installations add to the vibe. Thai street food stalls offering all the favourites are lined up under the palm trees. An enormous open-air food court with an abundance of tables and chairs await those needing sustenance or cooling
beverages as the evenings evolve. Some of the international headlines in the 2019 line-up included luminaries like Mitch Frohman (USA). Forever known as the saxophone soloist on the theme song of the hit TV show SEX & THE CITY, and one of the top saxophonist/flautists in the music scene currently. One of eight acts that took to the main stage on the first
night, Mitch Frohman & The Del Rilmo band enthralling all with an inspiring performance. With their roots in the Netherlands, the ‘New York Round Midnight Orchestra’, featuring vocalist Izaline Callister, took the Hua Hin beach audience back to New York and Broadways renowned jazz club heyday. Three members of this group
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also headed up another act - the ‘Beets Brothers’ – Marius, Alexander and Peter Beets, who took to the stage on the second evening and were joined by renowned jazz vocalist from the USA, Richard Jackson for a lively set. One of the world’s best jazz bassists Rubem Farias, on his first time to Hua Hin, performed several times over the week of festivities including on the main stage on Saturday evening. Rubem was joined on stage by ‘The Kings of Samba’ featuring celebrated singer, composer & guitarist Filo Machado. This ensembles infectious Brazilian jazz beats got the audience's feet tapping and hips swaying instantly. Other international newcomers to Hua Hin for 2019 included Malaysian trio ‘The Shanghai Sisters’ who brought their elegant style, infectious energy, coordinated moves, and Shanghai Jazz
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tunes to the stage. Performing in not one but three languages, much to the crowd’s delight.
rousing Stevie Wonder-inspired end to their set. Selfie mania hit front-of-stage as this musical set concluded.
Austrian quartet the ‘Woody Black 4’ mesmerised and enthralled the audience with their stylistic and exuberant musical playfulness. Just them and their four bassclarinets, pure, without any other accompaniment. Coming together at university some 10 years ago, this was their first appearance in Thailand, thanks in part to assistance from the Austrian embassy.
Up and coming performers had their own stage on Damnernkasem Road for the duration of the festival. The enthusiastic and highly supportive Koh Mr. Saxman dropped into this stage regularly to share jazz love. Another saxophonist captivated the Saturday afternoon audience with his skill and styling. And at the tender age of eleven years, it seems that Jazz talent and Thailand are conjoined.
Much loved Thai music sensations ETC brought their pop, rock, jazz & soul styles to an adoring crowd on Saturday evening, upping the tempo and the audience’s heart rates with a lively performance. These Chiang Mai lads also introduced festival goers to seasoned Australian singer, and now Bangkok based, Deni Hines for a
In the week leading up to the twoday main event, festival organisers ensured the Jazz vibe infected all corners of Hua Hin with pop-up performances happening at BluPort and Market Village Shopping Centres, Cicada Market, and the Hua Hin Clock Tower.
As major sponsors, some of Hua Hin’s international hotels also hosted events including the Avani+ Hua Hin, Anantara Hua Hin, G Resort, and the Hua Hin Marriott. With the main stage immediately in front of the Centara Grand Resort, this hotel hosted special dinners Friday and Saturday evenings with guests enjoying great Jazz and outstanding hospitality overlooking the beach and festival. Another of the sponsors, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort, organised a charity concert on Thursday evening with several of the headline acts performing. By the end of the evening, an outstanding 100,000 THB was contributed with all proceeds going to support musical education for Wang Klai Kangwon Palace School. The Klai Kangwon school Big Band also performed at this event and were first on the main stage Friday evening kicking off the festival proper. Hua Hin certainly lapped up this world-class event, so could Koh Mr. Saxman’s wish of the Hua Hin International Jazz Festival being seen as THE Jazz festival in SE Asia come to fruition? This writer certainly hopes so! By Michael Cullen
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L et’s Go,
HOT MAGAZINE RECOMMEND
Chumphon
L
ocated on the east side of the Malaysian Peninsular on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, most people pass through Chumphon on their way to its more popular neighbors such as Phuket, Koh Samui or Koh Pha Ngan but few choose to stay there. Like its name (Chumphon means lots of blessings) Chumphon is a hidden gem, roughly 500 km south of Bangkok, it is a quiet beach town with amazing snorkeling sites, mountainside viewpoints and over 200 km of coastline worth exploring. The Chumphon coast boasts several long and underrated stretches of sand
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drawing only a trickle of Thais and very few foreign travellers. Adjacent to the Chumphon Airport is the Pathio Coast, also known as the "Royal Gold Coast�, and it is miles of open beaches and limestone surrounded baths. You have your pick of spots to lay your towel on. Due to its close location to the airport, it's the easiest point of entry to Chumphon and beyond to the islands. There is a wide variety of beaches and bays from small limestone coves to long open beaches. Among them, Thung Waua Laen (also known as Running Bull Beach) is the most
popular; covering about 2 km along the Gulf of Thailand. It has fine, lightcolored sand speckled with boutique hotels, small restaurants, beach bars, and sport shops. The beach is a popular place for picnicking and most restaurants around the vicinity provide a picnic mat free of charge. One can easily travel to Thung Wua Laen by hopping on the yellow songthaew that takes off regularly from the city center. Bang Son Beach is mostly untouched with a few resorts under construction. Khao Dinsor (Pencil Hill) is nearby, offering a great view of the beach and surrounding islands. As the highest
peak in the district, the hill is also a good viewpoint for bird watching, especially raptors. The Raptor Festival is held here in October annually as hundreds of thousands of birds pass Chumphon to Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Australia. The activities on the mountain lookout include raptor watching and counting the birds plus a raptor exhibition. Ao Bo Mao, or Spring Tree Bay, is ideal for the traveler who is seeking peace, quiet and the occasional long walk through nature. Every evening, villagers are combing the beach to collect crabs and shellfish. In high tide,
the clear water is perfect for strolling on the beach and swimming. Boats can be hired at the beach to the nearby Ko Khai (Egg Island), the trip takes 15 minutes to the small mountainous island with coral reefs and a sandy beach. A giant clam sanctuary is being developed off the island by local environmentalists. Cape Pathiu is a small fishing village and headland that is being developed into a new tourism hub. The area features Thailand's only seaside rice terraces. Opposite the village are Ko Khai Island and the KMITL University – Chumphon campus. If you have a
vehicle, do make a trip 20 kilometers north from Thung Wua Laen to the Pathio district and check out Ao Bang Son, a fine khaki-sand beach located to the south of Laem Thaen and Bang Son, which is lined with colorful fishing boats. Laem Thaen is a sloping peninsula with a breathtaking cliff view. The Prince of Chumphon shrine, which is painted white all over, is located at Haad Sairee (Sai Ree beach), some 12 kilometers away from the city center. There is a memorial – an old torpedo warship – within the vicinity. Also known as the Kromluang Chumphon Khet Udomsak Royal
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Palace, the Prince of Chumphon shrine commemorates the accomplishments of Prince of Chumphon; the 28th child of King Rama V. The Prince of Chumphon established the modern Thai navy and is therefore known as the “Father of the Navy.” He passed away in Chumphon in 1923 but still commands deep respect from the Thais, especially those in the marine industry. Another vast beach, Ao Thung Zang, stretches north of Laem Thaen, just east of Chumphon airport, and is ideal for long walks on the sand. Bordered by coconut trees, the sandy white beach is proudly one of the most beautiful and unspoilt beaches in Thailand. With that being said, island-hopping is quite the experience here—the most prominent being Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan but there is also a number of smaller islands such as Koh Samet, Koh Tiap, Koh Kai among others. Although not as popular as Phuket or Koh Samui, they offer a quieter (and less crowded) alternative. One place you must definitely visit is the Mu Ko Chumphon National Park. Comprising over 300 km of both land and sea areas in Chumphon, it also consists of a group of islands in the gulf of Thailand. This national park boasts some amazing beaches, permeable limestone islands, mangrove forests, a long, nature trail, waterfalls, caves, as well as some holy shrines. Chumphon features a number of waterfalls, but the most popular one is the Pho Sa Le Waterfall. You can also stay overnight here--there's a camping
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area and bungalows at the Pong Pang Viewpoint. Forty islands offer you many interesting activities, from snorkeling at Koh Ngam Yai and Koh Ngam Noi, playing in the clear water around Koh Rangkajiew and Koh Tonglang to diving among fantastic coral reef at Koh Matra. Here you can snorkel, dive, kite-surf and even fish for squid. The islands of Koh Ngam Noi and Koh Ngam Yai are famous for their thriving reefs and clear water. The cliff formation on Koh Ngam Yai is shaped distinctly in the form of Buddha’s hand. These two islands are also home to the little edible-nest swiftlet. They produce the greatly prized and very expensive principle ingredient of bird’s nest soup. If you happen to be in the area or planning a trip to Thailand during spring: don’t miss the Naval Festival in the provincial capital taking place between March and April every year. The festival is filled with fun activities such as handicraft exhibitions, a seafood festival, a mini-marathon, fishing competitions, and a surf competition. Locals present their talents and you can learn more about the people and their city. In addition, take the time to visit the street night market of Chumphon. Situated along the Komluang Chumphon Road right after the intersection in front of the Chumphon Railway Station, the market offers the best of Thai cuisine and locally produced traditional goods. Sample the pad thai, hai tod (Thaistyle fried mussels) hoy tort (oyster
omelette), kuay tiao (noodle soup) and khao man gai (chicken rice). Food enthusiasts should also walk down to the Municipal Market (Talad Sod Chumphon) that stretches between Pracha Uthit and Poraminmanka on the south side of town. Munch on finger foods like khanom beuang (crispy taco-shaped sweets) and kluay tort (deep-fried bananas with sesame) while perusing stalls filled with freshchopped pig heads, squirming eels and flower garlands. Of course, it is not a Thai province without its temples and Chumphon is no exception. South of the city center is Wat Phra Yai. This temple features a golden statue of Buddha that sits atop winding steps with railings in the shape of mythical snakes called naga. While the temple is not as old as other historical monuments in Thailand, it is still interesting to see. The viewpoint overlooks the eastern plantations and offers a panoramic view of the sea. It is also referred to as Wat Khao Chedi and Wat Tuprasong. North of the city center, in Saphli village lies Wat Pa Yang. The buildings and statues in the temple complex are mostly covered in gold and is a truly stunning sight to behold. Wat Kaew Pra Sert is located on a hill that sits along the coast of the Gulf of Thailand—this part of the coastline is one of Chumphon’s finest. The most prominent statue at this temple is a 10-meter high Buddha Maitreya statue overlooking the beautiful sea and islands opposite it. In the woods
behind the temple complex is a “park” with statues depicting the lives in the three realms of heaven, earth, and the underworld, according to Buddhism. Founded by Luang Pho Jong, Wat Kaew Prasert is easily one of the most remarkable temples in Chumphon as this Thai-Chinese temple incorporates elements of Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism, Hinduism, as well as local Thai beliefs. Another temple is Wat Chao Fa Sala Loi which is about eight kilometers from town. This old Buddhist temple is particularly important to the people of Chumphon, who revere a monk named Luang Pu Song. He passed away 36 years ago but this venerable monk is believed to be so holy that his body did not decay after his death. The temple is open to visitors daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. To know more about Chumphon, visit the Chumpon National Museum. It's not one of Thailand's biggest or best national museums, but the prehistoric pottery, axes and jewelry found here will appeal to history enthusiasts. The museum includes interactive displays of architecture, historical, cultural and military pieces dating back 4000 years. There are also models of local house styles and photos from Typhoon Gay, which hit Chumphon in November 1989. It is open from Sunday to Wednesday, from 9 am to 4 pm, at a small fee. Chumphon can be reached via train, bus or minivan. You can easily arrive in Chumphon from anywhere in Thailand by bus and from Phuket or Krabi, buses leave for Bangkok every 2 hours. Since Chumphon is on the way, it’s easy to jump on here and arrive in Chumphon in just a few hours. On the train, both first and second class offer an admirable view of the Thai landscape, as the urban jungle fades into rolling hills and fresh air. The ferries from the island of Koh Tao and on to Koh Phangan and Koh Samui also come through Chumphon. If you choose to travel by air, Thai AirAsia and Nok Air fly directly to Chumphon Airport—the flight takes about an hour or so. Chumphon is a true getaway to relax, sleepy but welcoming. The natural beauty of Chumphon as well as the variety of cultural events that take place throughout the year beautifully reflect its unique way of life and is a destination that needs to be on your list to check out.
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InterContinental Pattaya Resort
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J
uan Terry Trippe was an American commercial aviation pioneer, entrepreneur and the founder of Pan American World Airways, commonly known as Pan Am, one of the most iconic airlines of the 20th century. Pan Am was the first airline to cross the Pacific & Atlantic Oceans with the famous Clipper flying boats. In April 1946 Juan had the vision to bring high-quality hotel
accommodation to the end of every Pan Am flight route and so in 1947 he opened the first InterContinental Hotel, the Hotel Grande in Belem, Brazil. InterContinental Hotels & Resorts expanded steadily achieving the recognition as the world’s first truly international luxury hotel brand. Standing on the low cliff of a headland, jutting out into the blue
waters of the Gulf of Thailand, you’ll find the InterContinental Pattaya Resort, less than two hours by road from Bangkok and two hours by ferry from Hua Hin. The luxurious five-star resort enjoys a beachfront location with unsurpassed views to Koh Larn (Coral Island) and beyond, occupying six acres of verdant land that includes its own private beach.
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Discerning travelers can choose from 156 comfortable and spacious rooms, including premium Club InterContinental Suites and Villas, all of which are fully decorated in a tasteful mix of traditional Thai with modern and oriental elements. Every guestroom has its own balcony or terrace from which to enjoy the fragrant sea breeze as well as full-length windows to let in a flood of natural light. Sun loungers are available with direct access to the Serenity or Spirituality Lagoons. In addition to deluxe rooms and suites, the resort also has two oceanfront villas – Baan Sai Nam, a two bedroom pool villa and Baan Sai Chol, a one bedroom pool villa. Both provide a private luxury-at-home experience, complete with personalized butler service. The villas are located just in front of the resort’s private beach and offer unsurpassed views across the Gulf of Thailand and nearby tropical islands. Each villa has separate dining and living areas, a private infinity pool and a sundeck, perfect for hosting private parties. All bedrooms have open-plan bathrooms, with sizeable terrazzo bathtubs for two, large rain showers, and plenty of vanity space. Bright and airy, all guest rooms feature modern and accessible amenities including flat-screen TV with DVD player, Wi-Fi internet access, tea and coffee maker, and private safety box. In 2017 the Club InterContinental experience was launched at the resort. This exclusive haven is where guests can enjoy unsurpassed personal service while staying in the resort’s elegant Club Suites or enjoying the top-class facilities at the beachfront Club InterContinental Lounge. Club Privileges include private check-in/checkout, personalized Club Butler Service, TWG afternoon tea, evening cocktails, and much more.
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The InterContinental Pattaya Resort caters to families as well as deluxe leisure and business travellers. The resort offers a multitude of activities to keep guests occupied whether it's taking a dip in the refreshing lagoon pools, embarking on an exciting excursion or adventuring through the gorgeous blue seas in a fully equipped, five-star luxury boat charter with captain and crew. For the little ones, the Planet Trekkers Programme supports children's growth, curiosity and creativity, by providing them with fun opportunities to learn and experience new things. Each day starts off with a unique theme featuring activities from tie-dyes, dance, cooking classes, arts and crafts and more. Well-trained professionals are on hand to actively engage children in a way that will enhance their world view and help them appreciate different cultures, cuisines, places and perspective. Meanwhile, the fitness center is open 24 hours a day, with professional instructors available to recommend workout programs.
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All stress, aches and pains can be soothed away in the resorts Amburaya Spa which has rooms for one or couples. From Ancient Asian therapies to Western treatments, experienced masseuses and wellness experts offers a haven for those looking to rest, refresh and rejuvenate. Outside, shadegiving trees surround the three lagoon swimming pools, while the quiet and privacy of the resort’s private beach is ideal for bathing and soaking up the sun. Of course, it’s not a luxury resort without top-class culinary delights. The InterContinental Pattaya Resort provides a variety of restaurants, each with their own individual specialties and all of them serving fresh, local dishes side by side with international favorites. Embark on a culinary journey at the elegantly designed Elements Restaurant where diners experience a gourmet meal with seats inside or with breath-taking ocean views on the patio. The marvelous BBQ Seafood Buffet is a popular choice
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for diners, with a magnificent spread and live cooking stations. Thai, Asian and Western favorites are also served, as well as a daily breakfast buffet and a children's menu for your little ones. Or you can choose to dine on a Mediterranean inspired menu at their Infiniti Restaurant, featuring signature dishes including sea bass carpaccio with avocado purée, salsa verde, wild rocket, short ribs with asparagus and roasted carrot purée. If you’d rather dine on the beach, Latitude by the Beach lets you recount the day’s adventures over thirst-quenching beverages and gourmet light bites just meters from the ocean. To add to the charming atmosphere, sip on the lounge’s signature cocktails and delicacies from a tasty tapas menu as candles and tiki torches flicker with the onshore breeze. If you are in the mood for something more intimate then there is always the resorts in-room dining service which is available around the clock, 24 hours a day.
For those looking to plan an occasion, private beachside or poolside dinners can be arranged whether it is for couples, groups or families. No matter what size gathering you have in mind, the resort offers an idyllic setting with its beachfront location, beautifully landscaped gardens, waterfall, multi-function ballroom and shaded courtyard. With lush outdoors and elegant indoor spaces, each resort venue can be customized to suit any function. The Phratamnak Ballroom is an elegant space that accommodates 200 guests. The Ballroom opens on to the beautiful Phratamnak Courtyard, a tranquil Oriental garden with its own waterfall. Meanwhile, the resort's private beach is a lovely setting for cocktails and canapés, holding up to 300 people. For barbequed affairs, the beach can serve up to 250 guests. For a truly luxurious, private and exclusive meeting venue, the multi-function Latitude by the Beach is located on the beachfront, and seats up to 30 people while boasting spectacular ocean views from the glass-fronted lounge.
Downtown Pattaya is within easy reach via their complimentary shuttle, just a 10 minute journey. Once in Pattaya the attractions are endless, with fantastic fun to suit all tastes and all ages, including cultural activities, shopping, dining, island tours, beaches, every sport imaginable, and a lively, diverse nightlife scene. Whether you want crowd-pleasing cabarets or hidden attractions, the friendly and experienced staff at InterContinental Pattaya Resort will handle your inquiry and show the very best that Pattaya has to offer. You let them know what you are in the mood for and they’ll take care of the rest. Juan Trippe, the founder of the InterContinental brand, passed away quite a few years ago, but if he were still among us he would have certainly enjoyed staying at the InterContinental Pattaya Resort and would have been proud of the vision he had back in 1946 to build such a high quality luxury brand.
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A Conversation With Smith Obayawat
T
he Office of Bangkok Architects, better known as OBA, are masters of distinctive architectural designs across Thailand and beyond. Founder, Principal and Managing Director of OBA, Smith Obayawat fuses form with function, creating a structure of contemporary sophistication. A wellknown lecturer and leading figure in Thai architecture circles, Smith Obayawat is renowned for his rich portfolio of boutique hotels, commercial properties and exclusive country clubs. He has won numerous awards as well as the design competition for the Thailand Pavilion at Expo Milano 2015. OBA’s services include large-scale urban designs, retail & mixed-use shopping centers, cinema complexes and other entertainment venues, as well as residential developments and luxury resorts. Their projects can be found in over 10 countries, Including
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Thailand, China, Italy, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and the Bahamas. In the Hua Hin area, Smith and OBA have designed the Veranda Residence Hua Hin, currently under construction in Koh Takiab. It is the sixth and latest project he’s done for Veranda. OBA has also designed the Banyan Golf Club and the hotels V-Villas, Villa Maroc & the Veranda Resort and Spa Hua Hin Cha Am. This magazine’s last two issues featured Smith/OBA designed hotels in our monthly “Let’s Stay” feature, the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit and the Veranda High Resort in Chiang Mai. Built on a grassy incline at the intersection of Sathorn and Rama IV, SO Sofitel Bangkok, some say, is Smith Obayawat’s masterpiece. Like a treasured hardback book with both covers equally intricate, SO Sofitel
Bangkok presents two façades on both major roads. The tower, with differing metallic shades and shifting glazed and solid panels, creates the sensual illusion of curves. In contrast, the tower sits upon a glass, zinc and stone podium with strong, clear definition, surrounded by shallow pools. Lava stone columns rise up at the ground floor entrance. Ascending to the ninthfloor lobby, guests are greeted by panoramic views of Lumpini Park. Both within the podium and the tower, airy three-storey atriums reveal elevated bridges and innovative spaces for relaxation. Higher up, rooftop restaurants, sky terraces and alfresco dining ensure sweeping views of the city and the park below. This month, HOT Magazine is thrilled to sit down with Smith Obayawat to discuss his life, his journey & his passions.
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HM: Smith, let’s start at the beginning, where were you born, what were your early years like and can you share a happy memory of those days? SO: I was born in Bangkok to a middle-class family which made me humble, I spent most of my time on studying. I was quite a good student, entering a good school and hung out with many good friends who were all different and we played a lot of sports. I was the only one in my group who was interested in anything artistic. My Dad and Mom have said they were always proud of me because they did not have to tell me what to do, they gave me a lot of space and allowed me to be independent. HM: At what age did you realize that architecture was your calling and was there a specific person or moment when the lightbulb switched on and you knew that’s what you wanted to do?
SO: I think around ten. In school we had to write a report for our teacher, ”What will you be?” Many of my friends chose Doctor, Army, Engineer or Businessman, I’m the only one in the class that chose architect. One of my uncle’s was an architect and he seemed to have a very enjoyable life compared to others. He would draw, sketching house designs, hospitals and hotels. He had an orchard in the suburbs, played piano and violin, plus, importantly, he drove a BMW!... He seemed very calm and relaxed. Later in life when I actually had to choose a profession for schooling, I disappointed my parents a little bit because I did not want to pursue medical school but they were OK and accepted my decision. HM: You went to Chulalongkorn University for your architecture degree and then to the University of Minnesota in the USA for your Masters. What were your college days like? Were you a hard-working student focused on
your studies or did you also take time to enjoy the college experience? And why did you choose the University of Minnesota? SO: I wouldn’t say that I was hard working in my undergrad life but I think I was a good student who always finished my assignment on time. My University of Minnesota decision came as a surprise. I was admitted to a couple Universities, however some Uni’s asked me to attend their language school first and to pass with a score above 580. But since my TOEFL score was at the bottom line of 550, Minnesota accepted me into their Grad school. Also I had a limited budget and time . U of M offered 4 quarters for a Masters in their Architecture program. Another reason was one of my friends was already attending a school there and he asked me to share an apartment with him and that was perfect for me at that moment.
Siam Pic Ganesha Theater
Pattaya Country Club
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Rajpruek-Club
Royal Maneeya
Siam Square One
HM: Once you had your degrees where did you do your internship and what did you learn most from that time? SO: I was picked to work in my teacher’s office after finishing my 1st quarter of study and I worked there until I graduated. After graduation I moved to New York City to work for the retail design firm Walker group/ CNI for 3 years. It was there where I learned about surviving in the design business. Also the period in New York taught you how to deal with many great people and big corporations. HM: While you were learning your trade, did you have a mentor who played a big role in your development? SO: All of my boss’s , teachers and friends, all of them contributed their notions of being a designer, a professional and a human being, starting with my first boss, Khun Nithi Stapitanond who is the founder of A49 HM: You founded the firm The Office of Bangkok Architects, also known as OBA. What year was that and did you always know you wanted to run your own firm?
SO: I was a partner with another firm for 3 years before where I learned that the phrase “generation gap” is real. In 1994 I left and started OBA as a small studio. I never planned to have a big firm because I never believed in my management skills. HM: How many architects and support staff do you have on your team? SO: We are running with 50-60 staff for the past 10 years and I plan to maintain this size. HM: Once you have designed a project, like the new Carlton Hotel in Bangkok, do you hand over your drawings to the building general contractor and your job is done or do you work closely with them until the completion of the project? SO: It depends on who the contractor and construction manager are. Both of them at Carlton are exceptional so our duty is 90% done but you know in the real life, unforeseen issues arise and that’s when we have to intervene, make alterations or sometimes redesigns! On some projects however our work load doesn’t end until the day of opening due to the capability of the contractor during construction.
HM: As the principal of OBA, how much time do you spend working on existing jobs, generating new business and managing the firm? SO: This is hard to say, it depends on the existing Jobs in process. If there’s a lot, I don’t need to go out much and actually, as a design firm, I can’t see myself going out with the intention to grab projects right away. Marketing is a long term plan. By doing good design work, sooner or later, you’ll get a new project. But frankly, I don’t spend much time managing the firm, it’s kind of automatic, naturally managing itself. HM: OBA won the architectural design competition for Siam Square One, a 70,000 Square Meter, 7-story plus 2 basement floors shopping mall located at the heart of Bangkok’s fashion district. A concert hall was part of the design and later you were appointed by the mall’s anchor tenant to design a multi-purpose theater of 1,000 seats on the building top floor. Are you and your team interdisciplined, meaning can you design any type of project or do you have team members who specialize in designing things like concert halls, hotels and retail? .
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SO: We absolutely want to be a multidiscipline firm and we really are. We designed many shopping malls and cinemas to claim that we have some knowledge, then came the first theater we did, Ratchadalai at Esplanade which is considered a real musical theater so why not do a 2nd one? We also designed a couple of successful resort hotels then we started to get awarded jobs one after another. Currently we do more city hotels and office buildings. Every firm needs a first project to start. My team accumulated their experience thru the projects we did and I would never call ourselves a specialist. HM: Your firm also won the design competition for the Thailand Pavilion at Expo Milano 2015. That must have been an important job honor to win. What was the process like in coming up with the design and what was it like to touring the building for the first time? SO: We were selected by a special panel and our design was well accepted by the government at the time. The design process was simple and straight forward but to convince everyone in Thailand that we no longer needed to offer the traditional architecture was a tough process. Of course, to see the Thailand Pavilion built from scratch to completion and to be there on the opening day where people lined up to visit was quite overwhelming. HM: I understand your company also designs one-off private homes for well-known wealthy Thai’s. Is this something you do more for friends or an actual segment of your business?
SO Sofitel Bangkok 66
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Siam Country Club Waterside
Vie Hotel Bangkok
Veranda-Chiang-Mai
SO: It’s quite difficult and a time consuming job to design a house for someone especially if you don’t know them well. That’s why we don’t have a lot of residences in our portfolio. You are right that we did it because we know them even though I cannot claim that we are friends well. They believe that we understand them and can compose the space that fits their lifestyle. HM: Your company designed an IMAX theater in the Bahamas, how did that job come about? SO: We were very excited at first that they came to Bangkok to look at our designed projects and they flew me to Nassau. It was a long process and good experience for me but after we finished the design, the Nassau City Planning Department intervened declaring that our façade design were too modern and outstanding, they were afraid that it would create a new paradigm on the Island where most of the architecture
is British colonial style. We agreed to have their local architect redesign the façade. From Google Earth, It looks similar to our design but from the street level I couldn’t recognize it. HM: With all the work that you and your firm have going, does it leave you any time for enjoyable pursuits and if so, what do you like to do when you aren’t working? SO: I’m a typical guy who loves music and sports. I gig every now and then with a band playing 70’s rock with friends at couple bars in Bangkok. Also in my spare time I enjoy playing football and golfing with old pals from high school. I’m lucky that I have designed 8 golf course clubhouses and they always welcome me to come back and play. Banyan in Hua Hin is one of the clubs but unfortunately I can only get there once or twice a year.
Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit
SO: 1. Be patient. 2.Enjoy and be proud of what you are doing. 3. If you encounter to much suffering, go back to number 1. HM: Finally, can you tell us what was your happiest day and why? SO: I’m not a philosopher alright…. but for me, every day without mental trouble, no argument , a simply serene state of mind, wherever I am, jogging track, at home, in my office, golf course, football field on stage or in the classroom, I always feel it’s a happy day and of course every morning that I wake up still alive, that is the happiest day. HM: Thank you Smith for taking the time to be with us.
HM: For the aspiring architects that are reading this, what advice would you give them?
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M/Y Spectre & Benetti Win Big
C
reated by Asia-Pacific Boating and China Boating magazines in 2005, the annual Asia Boating Awards are the most renowned yachting awards in Asia and eagerly noted across the world. Presented during a lavish ceremony, the awards serve as a benchmark for the industry in the Asia-Pacific region. This year’s 15th edition was held on
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April 10 at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore. There, the Italian luxury motoryacht company Benetti won the “Best Custom-Built Yacht” prize for the M/Y “Spectre. A month later,the iconic 69-meter Benetti won another prestigious award. This time, M/Y Spectre cast its spell over the designers, architects and yachting experts that were part of the jury of Boat
International, one of the world’s most highly respected yachting magazines, who gave the yacht the World Superyacht Award in the category “Displacement yachts between 500 and 1,999 tonnes” for its build quality, technology, high performance and cruising comfort. Spectre’s owner, the talented New York businessman John Staluppi, chose
Benetti for the third time and, as usual, celebrated his passion for James Bond by naming the yacht “Spectre” after the title of the famous 2015 film starring 007. M/Y “Spectre” (FB269) is a full custom 69-meter (226 feet) megayacht, with a steel hull and an aluminium superstructure arranged on five decks, featuring a swimming pool and a ‘touch
and go’ helipad. Accommodating 12 guests in unparalleled comfort, the layout features two owner’s cabins (one has a private terrace, a sun lounging area and a hydromassage tub), two VIP cabins on the Main Deck and two guest cabins on the lower deck. Bringing together Benetti’s most advanced design and construction technologies, M/Y “Spectre” is fitted
with Ride Control technology by Naiad Dynamics, representing an absolute novelty for this type of boat. The system significantly increases stability during navigation and improves comfort on board with the help of four stabilising fins and three vertically-adjustable blades.
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The lines of the Hi Speed Cruising Hull, designed by Dutch firm Mulder Design, deliver maximum navigation efficiency, with a range of 6,500 nautical miles at 12 knots and a top speed of 21.2 knots, 30% more than a traditional displacement hull. The exteriors are by Giorgio M. Cassetta, who says that he has fallen in love with the project and is proud to have contributed to the creation of such a technologically advanced yacht: “I’m very fond of Spectre. It’s the perfect example of a virtuous confluence between the ideas of the owner and the shipyard. John and Jeanette Staluppi, with their immense experience and energy, have spurred us on to imagine a yacht complete with everything that could be desired on a boat this size. Benetti accepted the challenge of building it to the highest standards and with a wealth of innovative technology. The splendid result is a satisfaction that my firm will treasure in the years to come”. The dynamic exterior design of “Spectre” accommodates spacious interiors by Benetti’s Interior Style Department, which has created a modern yacht embellished by steel detailing and sculpted glazed surfaces. The atmosphere conjures up the mood of 1930s Art Deco found in New Orleans and Florida, which draws its inspiration from late 19th century French Liberty style. Paolo Vitelli, Chairman of AzimutBenetti Group made the following comment on this latest achievement: “I feel extremely proud to be, once again recognized as the largest megayacht producer in the world for 19 years now. Benetti is receiving this prestigious award for Spectre and in the meantime is completing 3 Giga yachts of more than 100 mt. We are living a sparkling sales season and hosting great events all over the world. These are great achievements with which I happily celebrate the 50th Anniversary of my Group”. Established by Lorenzo Benetti in 1873, the company started out building wooden boats used for local and international trade. By 1914, Benetti’s sons Gino and Emilio had taken over the management of the boatyard. They renamed the yard Fratelli Benetti and quickly built up a reputation that extended far beyond the Mediterranean. After Gino passed away in 1927, his sons and nephews continued on the legacy. It was Gino’s grandson Lorenzo who was the driver of the yacht business, moving instantly from wooden to steel construction, and
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designing three styles of yacht which brought the name Benetti to the world: the Delfino, the Tirreno and the Meditteraneo lines (from 18 to 33 metres). In 1979, the yard launched "Nabila" for Adnan Khashoggi, which at 83 metres and 2,465 tonnes was the largest yacht of its time. Currently, Nabila has been renamed Kingdom 5KR and is owned by Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal of Saudi Arabia. In 1985 the boatyard was acquired by the celebrated Turin-based boat builder Azimut Yacht. Under the new Azimut management, the Benetti shipyard launched their first vessel “Rima” in 1987. Designed for a client from the Middle East, her interiors were designed by Terrence Disdale. Even with her steel hull, “Rima’s” speed was impressive but not as much when the first 45 meter “Ambrosia” was launched in 1994. With a Chinese owner, she was the brainchild of exterior architect Stefano Natucci and interior designer François Zuretti, the most extraordinary yacht build by Benetti up until then. Ambrosia transformed the dream of eco-sustainable yatchs since the megayacht was one of the first to be built with an electric power unit and azipod propulsion system.
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In 2013, Benetti celebrated its 140th anniversary. It is to be said that while Benetti is one of the oldest builders of luxury motoryachts in the world, it was under Azimut’s management that transformed Benett into the modern, technologically advanced reality we know today: a forward-looking and innovative boatyard, but also one that proudly retains its traditional values of experience, skill and a passion for fine craftsmanship.
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Benetti’s time honored tradition in yacht building continues to grow and change, not following but anticipating the times. After abandoning wood and being the first to realise the potential of composite materials for the production of megayachts, as early as the 1960s it made the transition from metal boats to steel and aluminium. Today Benetti utilizes these materials, alone or combined, to design and build full-custom displacement and semidisplacement motor yachts in a broad variety of lengths from 93 feet to 90+ meters. These tailor-made vessels embody the owner’s idea of what a yacht should be, while retaining the Benetti family-feeling that is a natural expression of the finest Italian style and timeless elegance. This production capacity, united with world class quality, fanatical attention to detail and a perfect end result, have made Benetti a world leader and an Italian luxury yacht icon. Once the Fratelli Benetti boatyard was famous for building three-masted wooden schooners for commercial use. Today Benetti motor yachts turn heads at the world’s most famous and exclusive ports of call.
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如何像房屋猎人一样思考 作者:Russ Downing
无论是房子的买方还是卖方, 都有一个有关房子的“清单” ,也是连接房屋买卖双方的纽 带。买方列出的是心目中对房 子的要求,而卖方清单中列出 的,是房子的卖点。只有买卖 双方的清单内容吻合,交易才 会成功。 以下是房子买卖双方清单上最 频繁出现的内容: 位置:位置!位置!!位 置!!!重要问题说三遍,因
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为这是买卖双方清单中列出的 第一、也是最重要的一项。买 家总是想要在预算内买到最好 的位置,无论是在高尔夫球场 旁,视野绝佳,离购物中心很 近,还是离城镇很近等等。这 也难怪,卖方首先介绍的并 反复强调的,是房子的地理位 置。 外观:我能想象这里就是我的 家吗?一套房子能体现房主的个 性,尤其是第一印象,所以房 子的外观美丽是一件大事。卖
方往往会准备一些精心摄制的 照片,其作用是不言而喻的。 大小:房子够大吗?由于买房 子的人习惯于在房地产网站上 寻找房源,按卧室和浴室的最 小数量搜索。基于这一点,卖 方应该把所有的卧室和浴室都 罗列出来,即使其中一间卧室 现在用作办公室,也不要想当 然下一个主人也会这么使用。 空间:我的家具能放得下吗? 对于买方来说,总是从他们自
于哪一类买家,以及相应的定 价。另外一方面,买方应该做 好预算,选择多花一点钱买一 套拎包入住的房子,还是少花 一点钱,买一套住进去后再慢 慢打理的房子。 我的一位客户最近卖掉了他拥 有7年多的一套公寓。根据我的 建议,他在两个买家之间来回 奔走,一周之内就成交了。这 说明无论什么房子,一定会有 买主;无论什么买家,也一定 能找到心仪的房子,问题只是 如何去寻找而已。
关于作者
己的需求出发。他们想弄清楚 将来如何在这个空间里生活, 电视和沙发将如何摆放。比如 说,现在电视越来越大,买家 就越得充分利用房子的空间, 那样他们才会越有家的感觉。 另外,在家里展示艺术品也是 买家的另一个要求。我有一个 客户,几年前在缅甸买了一幅 有70年历史的手工挂毯,但 他从来没能把它挂起来,因为 他买的房子没有一面足够大的 墙。到现在为止,他每参观一
所房子想到的,就是能否让这 幅挂毯重见天日。 便利:房子装修好了吗?我什 么时候可以搬进去?在住进去之 前,我需要做什么?交钥匙时, 我是否可以拎包入住?此类的 问题是买卖双方都需要沟通清 楚的。有些屋子装修有点陈 旧,但功能齐全,可以先住进 去,以后逐步更新。有些房子 则需要大修之后,才能入住。 各类房子都有买家,但作为 卖方,必须懂得您的房子适合
Russ Downing是华欣房地 产 杂 志 H OT 的 董 事 总 经 理 , 担任泰国房地产奖(Thailand Property Awards)华欣评审 团的负责人长达11年,该奖项 被视为泰国房地产行业的奥斯 卡。Russ的文章常常被翻译并 转载在大型的中文杂志上。他 推荐的三套豪华住宅曾入选《 华尔街日报》的“每日之家” ,在美洲版、欧洲版、亚洲版 以及在线版上刊出。 如果您想在华欣购买或出售 房屋,请致电084 387 5699或 russ@hothuahin.com, www. hothuahinproperty.com联系 Russ。
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Bumrungrad Health Briefs Osteoporosis and Exercise: 5 Things You Should Know Nearly 200 million people around the world have osteoporosis, making it the most prevalent metabolic bone disease. The disease involves loss of bone mass due to low bone density and declining bone quality manifested by deterioration of bone microarchitecture. Here are five things you should know about osteoporosis and the role exercise plays in preventing the disease and reducing its impact on those who have it.
1. Fragility fractures are much more likely. Osteoporosis patients have a much greater risk of suffering a fragility fracture — a fracture that occurs spontaneously or from relatively minor trauma (e.g. from a fall at or below standing height, or at walking speed or below). The areas most prone to fragility fractures include the spine, hips and wrists.
2. Aging and gender affect risk. Most cases of osteoporosis occur after age 50. Women are roughly four times more likely than men to be diagnosed with osteoporosis, owing largely to women’s smaller, thinner bones as well as the impact of declining levels of the hormone estrogen after menopause, which can lead to bone loss.
3. The consequences are serious. Patients who suffer a fragility fracture may experience chronic pain, immobility, lower quality of life, a loss of independence, and higher overall mortality.
4. Exercise, calcium and vitamin D are must-haves. Exercise, calcium and vitamin D are the critical components of life-long bone health — to prevent osteoporosis, and to slow bone loss and rebuild bone strength in osteoporosis patients. • Exercise: The best evidence supports multi-component exercise programs combining strength, balance and aerobic training. In fact, programs that included only walking were less effective in preventing falls, and did not affect hip bone mineral density. You can
strengthen bones with weight-bearing exercises such as running, weightlifting and stair climbing. Older adults should aim for 30 minutes each day of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic physical activity. If you have a previous spine fracture or other physical limitations, consider low-impact alternatives including yoga and Pilates. These improve strength, balance and reflexes for reacting nimbly to prevent potential falls. • Calcium: Aim for 1,200 milligrams (mg) daily through diet and supplements. • Vitamin D: 400 to 1,000 IU daily is recommended for adults under 50 without osteoporosis or conditions affecting vitamin D absorption. An 800 to 2,000 IU daily intake is recommended for adults 50 and older. 5. Medication can boost bone strength. Medication may be prescribed for high fracture risk patients, such as those with one previous hip or spine fragility fracture or two or more fractures not involving the spine or hips. Medication can improve bone density and reduce fracture risk by approximately 50%, with high-risk patients seeing the greatest benefits.
Bumrungrad International Hospital in Bangkok is home to over 1,300 doctors and surgeons providing quality in-patient and out-patient care in state-of-the-art diagnostic, therapeutic and intensive care facilities. Founded in 1980, Bumrungrad today serves over 1.1 million patients each year, including 520,000 international patients, who have access to comprehensive support in more than 20 languages. Along with its internationallycertified lab and pharmacy, advanced imaging, and 24-hour emergency care, Bumrungrad has 55 specialty centers — including the New Life Healthy Aging Clinic, a dedicated geriatric clinic supported by specialists in heart and cancer care, bone and digestive health, and neurology and ophthalmology.
Whether you’re 20-something or at an age when osteoporosis is a significant threat, protecting your bone health should be a priority. If you have not been tested for osteoporosis, ask your doctor about testing options. Dr. Alisara (Amy) Arirachakaran is an orthopedic surgeon and sports science specialist at Bumrungrad International Hospital and the Sports and Lifestyle center at the Vitallife Scientific Wellness Center.
Contact Bumrungrad +66 2066 8888 info@bumrungrad.com www.bumrungrad.com
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HOME& REAL ESTATE Brought to you by
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HOMES OF THE MONTH
STUNNING, UNIQUE MODERN STYLE, LUXURIOUS 5 BEDROOM GOLF COURSE MANSION This house represents a truly unique lifestyle statement. Designed by International Architects & constructed using top quality materials by a premier construction company, this superb, modern 750 sqm North orientated home, considered desirable for tropical living, overlooks a lake and the 13th fairway of the prestigious Palm Hills Golf Course. Based on the principle that 'simplicity is the essence of good design' the ground floor of this spacious home features cascading water courses, a large open plan, part double height Living/Dining & Kitchen area giving panoramic views over the landscaped gardens, swimming pool, lake and golf course beyond. The first floor is accessed by both an internal cantilevered teak staircase with glass balustrading and an external 'vertical hub' linking a generous additional living area incorporating a 'Home Theater' with built in 'Sonos' surround sound, overhead projection and 100 inch screen. Direct access to
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external balcony terraces give lakes, golf course & elevated views to the sea. Completing the accommodation on this floor is a spacious Office/Library accessed by full height double teak doors. Directly opposite is a generous, well appointed Master Bedroom Suite with a private balcony terrace with similar lakes, golf course and sea views. At the Ground Floor there is an Entertainment room complete with a pool table, wine bar, sink unit & fridge. Opposite are two self-contained Guest Bedroom Suites with full en-suite facilities, accessed by a private balcony terrace leading directly to the pool and gardens. At the Main Entrance there is a large self-contained Garden Villa with 2 double size bedrooms, large bathroom, kitchen and living area. Completing the Ground Floor accommodation is a 3 car covered parking area with storage rooms, Maid Quarters & Laundry area.
A large 15m x 8m salt water infinity pool has its own access terrace and is highlighted by a large 'sunken dining court' with eye level swimming pool water views. This 5 Bedroom, 6 Bathroom Villa stands on a 2400 sqm plot and benefits from a sophisticated security system and outdoor 'Sonos' music system, great for relaxing & entertaining. This home is sold fully furnished complete with a Palm Hills Lifetime Family Golf Membership. To view the complete picture catalog of this property, visit www. hothuahinproperty.com, reference number AG-V175. To arrange a personal tour call 084 387 5699 or email info@hothuahinproperty.com.
LIVING AREA: 750 M 2 LAND AREA: 2,400 M 2 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 6
43,950,000 THB
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HOMES OF THE MONTH
LARGE HOME IN MULTI-AWARD WINNING DEVELOPMENT
T
his brand new beautifully designed and solidly built luxury villa is located 3 kilometers from Hua Hin’s 5 billion baht BluPort Shopping Mall and just a few minutes more into the center of town. Ensconced in the Falcon Hill Development, winner of the 2017 & 2018 Best Development in Hua Hin Award by the Thailand Property Awards, this property is perfect for full time living or for the ultimate of holidays in Hua Hin. The property features a main house, two en-suite guest houses and an outdoor entertainment, BBQ & Bar pavilion. The main house contains 3 bedrooms and two bathrooms. The
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distinctive and spacious master has a large walk in closet and luxurious master bathroom as well as sliding glass doors out to the covered terrace and 5 X 14 meter swimming pool beyond. The kitchen, dining room and lounge are open plan allowing for great entertaining. Direct access from the lounge to the 56 square meter covered terrace is perfect for indoor / outdoor living. Guest house 1 is en-suite with a walk-in closet. Guest house 2 is also en-suite and benefits from its own pantry kitchen, entertainment space and covered terrace. An additional outdoor pavilion features a BBQ and bar area. You will also find an outdoor
shower, bathroom and a covered car park for two cars with storage. This home is being offered fully furnished. To view the complete picture catalog of this property, visit www. hothuahinproperty.com, reference number AG-B161. To arrange a personal tour call 084 387 5699 or email info@hothuahinproperty.com.
LIVING AREA: 371 M 2 LAND AREA: 908 M 2 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 5
23,800,000 THB
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+66 (0) 84 387 5699 info@hothuahinproperty.com
HOME & REAL ESTATE
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Hua Hin West
10 minutes west of Hua Hin, Fully air-conditioned, Built-in Wardrobes in All Bedrooms Extended Kitchen. Covered Terrace, Large Pool with Jacuzzi. Beds: 3 Living area: 180 m2 5,500,000 THB Baths: 2 Land area: 448 m2
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Khao Kalok / Pak Nam Pran
0.8 Km’s to Beach. Almost New, Built September 2018. Fully furnished, 4 aircons, Both bedrooms en-suite + guest bathroom. Integrated garage Beds: 2 Living area: 171 m2 5,950,000 THB Baths: 3 Land area: 544 m2
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Kao Takiab Award Winning Project, Excellent Amenities, Great Rental Ocean & Mountain Views, Fully Furnished Beds: 2
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Living area: 105 m2
7,250,000 THB
Hua Hin West
#AG-B213957
12 Minutes North of Hua Hin Center, 10 Minutes to Hua Hin, Fully Furnished, Covered Terrace, Large Pool, Euro Kitchen Beds: 3 Baths: 2
Living area: 500 m2 Land area: 155 m2
Koh Takiab
5,900,000 THB
#AG-B216766
Located in the desirable area of Kho Takiab, 7 K to Hua Hin. Minutes walk to a great beach and minutes to golf by car. Beds : 3 Living area : 140 m2 6,500,000 THB Baths : 2 Land area : 400 m2
Hua Hin West
#AG-B1710001
10 minutes West of Hua Hin in completed development. Asian style, quality built, swimming pool, private Beds: 3 Land area: 181 m2 7,500,000 THB Baths: 2 Living area: 504 m2
View our full property catalog at
www.hothuahinproperty.com
+66 (0) 84 387 5699 info@hothuahinproperty.com
HOME & REAL ESTATE
#AG-T313306
Koh Takiab
Hua Hin Center
#AG-B217646
7 Minutes South of Hua Hin Center 1 minute walk to popular beach Townhouse, Communal Pool, Euro Kitchen
Great location! Minutes from Restaurant Soi 94 & the Town Center, Air Con throughout, covered terrace, pool gardens and carport. Fully furnished
Beds: 3 Baths: 3
8,000,000 THB
Beds: 3 Baths: 3
#AG-B30006117
Hua Hin West
Living area: 135 m2 Land area: 350 m2
Black Mountain
Living area : 150 m2 Land area : 450 m2
8,700,000 THB
#AG-B146
15 Minutes West of Hua Hin Center, 2 Bedrooms in Main House, 1 Bedroom Guest Villa, Large covered Terrace, Large Pool, Euro Kitchen Beds: 3 Land area: 1,100 m2 9,500,000 THB Baths: 3 Living area: 190 m2
10 Minutes from Hua Hin Center, Completed Development, Sala, Covered Terrace, Pool, Euro Kitchen
Hua Hin South
Hua Hin North
#AG-B2138966
10 Minutes SW of Hua Hin Center, Guest House, Fully Furnished Large covered Terrace, 4 X 12 Pool, Euro Kitchen Beds: 4 Living area: 340 m2 Baths: 4 Land area: 1,000 m2
10,950,000 THB
Beds: 3 Baths: 2
Living area: 250 m2 Land area: 609 m2
9,750,000 THB
#AG-B157
15 Minutes from Hua Hin Center, Less than 1km from golf course, Large covered terrace, Latest energy saving technology Beds: 3 Baths: 4
Land area: 900 m2 Living area: 280 m2
View our full property catalog at
www.hothuahinproperty.com
11,790,000 THB
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+66 (0) 84 387 5699 info@hothuahinproperty.com
HOME & REAL ESTATE
Hua Hin West
#AG-B217673
10 km from Town center and near many shops and restaurants. Features a Euro Kitchen, air-con throughout, a pool, sala, garden, & Covered Carport. Beds: 3 Living area: 300 m2 12,000,000 THB Baths: 3 Land area: 524 m2
Hua Hin South
#AG-B3135430
15 Minutes South of Hua Hin Center, Sea Views, Near Beach & Golf Large covered Terrace, Pool, Euro Kitchen Beds: 3 Living area: 210 m2 Baths: 2 Land area: 600 m2
14,500,000 THB
Koh Takiab Beachfront Condo in desirable building in trendy area
#AG-A63
3 decks, ocean view, oceanfront swimming pool, tennis courts Beds: 2 Baths: 2
88
Living area : 124 m2 Land area : 100 m2
HOT Magazine
16,900,000 THB
Hua Hin South
#AG-B217606
5 Minutes South of Hua Hin Center, Desirable development, Fully Furnished, Large covered Terrace, Pool, Euro Kitchen Beds: 3 Baths: 4
Living area: 270 m2 Land area: 800 m2
12,900,000 THB
Pak Nam Pran #AG-V0510481 Sea, River & Mountain Views, 3 Bedrooms in Main House, 1 Bedroom Guest Villa, Large covered Terrace, Large Pool, Euro Kitchen Beds: 4 Baths: 4
Living area: 270 m2 Land area: 1,000 m2
Hua Hin West
16,000,000 THB
#AG-V212241
Located mere minutes from the Black Mountain Golf Course, rated one of Hua Hin’s very best, is this large 3 story pool villa in a modern design. Beds: 4 Living area: 300 m2 19,950,000 THB Baths: 4 Land area: 800 m2
View our full property catalog at
www.hothuahinproperty.com
+66 (0) 84 387 5699 info@hothuahinproperty.com
HOME & REAL ESTATE
Hua Hin North Golf Course
#AG-B163
Sensational Large Family & Entertaining Pool Villa For Sale At Hua Hin’s Best Address Located in the highly desirable Palm Hills Golf and Country Club is this former personal home of one of Hua Hin’s best builders. The villa is filled with luxury extras like a private gym outfitted with professional equipment, a spa room that includes a large steam room, sauna, hot tub & cold tub plus a massage table. Other luxury amenities include a fully outfitted outdoor kitchen plus a large built in BBQ & Grill and over 3 million baht worth of solar panels and lithium batteries with the result being almost zero electrical costs. The main house has an open plan high end kitchen / dining room & lounge as well as a temperature-controlled wine room. Additionally you’ll find the master bedroom and bathroom with walk in closet.
large waterfall. This house comes completely furnished including two 85 inch TV’s, one in the lounge and one in the master bedroom. Also included is a lifetime family membership to the Palm Hills Golf Club and its separate Fitness Club. Located in the highly desirable Palm Hills Golf and Country Club is this former personal home of one of Hua Hin’s best builders. The villa is filled with luxury extras like a private gym outfitted with professional equipment, a spa room that includes a large steam room, sauna, hot tub & cold tub plus a massage table. Other luxury amenities include a fully outfitted outdoor kitchen plus a large built in BBQ & Grill and over 3 million baht worth of solar panels and lithium batteries with the result being almost zero electrical costs. The main house has an open plan high end kitchen / dining room & lounge as well as a temperature-controlled wine room. Additionally you’ll find the master
The home features five bedrooms plus maid’s quarters. Two of the bedrooms are separate guest suites off of the oversized 8 X 20 meter swimming pool. Over a million baht was spent on the tropical gardens, ponds and Beds: 6
Baths: 7
bedroom and bathroom with walk in closet. The home features five bedrooms plus maid’s quarters. Two of the bedrooms are separate guest suites off of the oversized 8 X 20 meter swimming pool. Over a million baht was spent on the tropical gardens, ponds and large waterfall. This house comes completely furnished including two 85 inch TV’s, one in the lounge and one in the master bedroom. Also included is a lifetime family membership to the Palm Hills Golf Club and its separate Fitness Club. For those looking for an extremely large estate, the home owner also owns and is selling land plots on both sides of the home with the potential of adding an additional 3 rai (4,800 sqm’s) to the property. This home was offered at 35,000,000 but has been recently reduced to 29,900,000 for a quick sale and no further discount will be considered.
29,900,000 THB
Living area: 1,000 m2 Land area: 2,340 m2
Large Absolute Beachfront Penthouse With Mesmerizing Ocean Views Absolute beachfront condominiums rarely come on the market in Hua Hin, especially the enviable penthouse’s, due their rarity. Located next to the beautiful Five-Star Anantara Hua Hin Resort is this incredibly expansive 367 square meter, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom home. All bedrooms are en-suite, all with ocean views and deck access. The master suite is exceptionally spacious and benefits from a walk in closet and oversized master bathroom. Additionally, there is a very large lounge and dining area, a smaller lounge, a large kitchen with plenty of counterspace, a guest powder room and an office. Hua Hin North
Beds: 3 Baths: 3
#AG-A60
Living area: 750 m2 Land area: 367 m2
58,000,000 THB
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L IV ING THE LIFE YOU LOVE H AS NEV ER BE EN THIS POS S IBLE.
LAST 6
REMAINING VILLAS
FULLY FURNISHED VILLA WITH
BLACK MOUNTAIN GOLF MEMBERSHIP OFFER VALUED AT
OVER 3 MILLION BAHT
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