Cha Am Today August 2013 by Hua Hin Today

Volume 4 Issue 12 August 2013

he Cha-Am Municipality is preparing festive activities to celebrate Queen Sirikit’s birthday anniversary on 12th August. As 12th August is also Thailand’s National Mother’s Day, awards will be presented to recognise mothers from local communities in Cha-Am. According to the Cha-Am Mayor Mr. Nukul Pornsomboonsiri, Her Majesty will reach 81 years of age on 12th August this year. The Cha-Am municipality is organising festive activities to express gratitude to the Queen.

creatures into the local waters of Cha-Am. At 9 a.m. a ceremony to honour and giving best wishes to the Queen will take place at a meeting room of the Cha-Am Municipal offices. At 7 p.m. a candlelight ceremony to honour Queen Sirikit will be held, followed by the awards ceremony for the mothers of 27 local communities in Cha-Am, stage performances and the singing of songs to honour the Queen.

“Cha-Am Municipality would like to invite both tourists The Queen’s birthday celebration in Cha-Am will start at 8.30 and local people to celebrate Her Majesty’s 81st birthday a.m. on 12th August with the releasing of fish and other marine anniversary in the city together,” said Mr. Nukul.

CARABAO ROCKS CHA-AM

Carabao is the most popular Thai rock group of all time. Carabao has reached cult status long ago and is now one of the most successful legendary rock groups in the world. They are compared with U2 and sometimes referred to as the ‘Rolling Stones of Asia’. Their music repertoire includes blended folk, western rock and country and various kinds of world music.

Contunued on page 22

TRIPLE AWARD Won By HOTEL DE LA PAIX H otel de la Paix - Cha Am has been scooping awards and accolades recently in its pursuit of becoming the area’s leading luxury designer hotel.

Recognition of Hotel de la Paix’s quality, standards and outstanding service began recently with the Tripadvisor “Certificate of Excellence 2013” award, which is received by only the top 10% of all businesses and hotels featured on Tripadvisor. HolidayCheck, one of Europe’s leading travel websites, then announced Hotel de la Paix-Cha Am as one of the best recommended hotels on HolidayCheck, and presented its “HolidayCheck Quality Selection 2013” award. Hotel de la Paix’s Head of Quality and Standards, Warren Shaw, proudly attributed the success to all the outstanding staff that deliver a unique and amazing guest experience, “Stunning design and amazing architecture alone cannot win these awards. This is the result of all the hard work by a professional and highly motivated team of great people.” The Management Team at Hotel de la Paix was overjoyed to receive the ‘White Hotel’ award for its commitment to staff welfare and the operation of a safe working environment. Nigel Tovey, General Manager at Hotel de la Paix, enthusiastically commented that that creating

The Cera Resort Cha-Am has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence 2013 Winner and a Certificate of Quality Selection 2013. These prestigious awards are given to businesses that consistently earn high ratings from TripAdvisor and from HolidayCheck.com travellers. a safe and healthy environment for the welfare all our friends and colleagues is a priority. “We are committed to providing the best possible working environment at Hotel de la Paix. The initiatives and practices we’ve introduced are just the beginning of a legacy that we hope to strengthen further, and that others will follow. “ Hotel de la Paix is only the second hotel of more than 50 Cha-Am hotels to receive the ‘White Hotel’ certificate, which is awarded by the Petchaburi local government upon the satisfactory completion and implementation of the highest, stringent Health, Safety and Welfare conditions.

Everyday Thai People and what they do

and this time they are “GOING BANANAS”

his is a story about ‘ordinary’ Thai people going about their business in the way they know best. On this occasion we were able to gain some insights into the lives of Khun Ad and Khun Lom who have operated banana boats from the Cha-Am beach for more than 30 years. Khun Ad hails from Suphanburi and his wife of over 22 years Khun Lom comes from Chumphon, however they met in Cha-Am. According to Khun Ad he spotted her walking along a roadside here and apparently was so attracted that he decided to ‘kidnap’ her. We’re not sure how true that is, but it was the only description given of their courtship! They now have a 19 year old and a 5 year old daughter. They are clearly very proud of their children and particularly their eldest daughter being in her second year of study at Stamford International University. The family is currently renovating a townhouse so that their children will be more comfortable and they also think it’s important that their privacy be secured, Khun Ad is one of the earliest operators of banana boats in Cha-Am and he remembers when there were only 6 operators rather than the current 145. Apart from banana boats the couple also have a ‘sofa’ boat (the round version), a jet ski they and manage around 200 deck chairs on their ‘patch’ of beach. An important sideline is to carry out repairs

to the boats and his expertise is well known. We understand that apart from other local operators boats are also brought to him from Bang Saphan and even Pattaya.

Generosity From The Cha-Am Methavalai Hotel Petchburi

On Monday July 8th, 2013 Mr.Samrit Kongphrom General Manager of the Methavalai Hotel and staff took the proceeds of the hotel’s recycling project and donated it to a school in need. The funds went towards a luncheon for rural children with the sports equipment and uniforms, stationery and medicine totaling 100,000.-baht being donated to the Baanpamak school, Samroiyod, The biggest issue for this couple is the lack Prachuabkhirikhan. of customers during the low season between Continued from page Cover Cha Am May and September. No customer = no money in, a familiar tale for all small businesses in The group was formed in 1976 by university concerts in Southern provinces. After Cha-Am town. They much prefer the busier months students Yuenyong Opakul (Aed) and Kirati the band returns to Bangkok. This is a hard and school holidays is also good for business. Promsaka Na Sakon Nakhon (Keo or Khiao) working outfit and they will have performed The ‘industry’ has an Association of operators who met while studying at Mapúa Institute over 50 concerts by the year’s end. which meets to discuss any issues and they of Technology in the Philippines. The word Unfortunately concerts by the band have had a can offer a combined voice if there is a need carabao is Tagalog (Filipino) meaning “buffalo”, reputation for some acts of aggression by the to approach local government. It also helps a symbol of fighting, hard work, and patience. fans. However crowd safety was paramount at to settle any problems that may arise between Carabao’s most popular album, Made In this concert. Prior to the show Khun Thod gave Thailand (เมดอินไทยแลนด์), was released in 1984 and individual operators. us a guarantee this concert would be safe and sold over four million copies. They have now On a lighter note they described how one Thai released a total of 25 official studio albums with he wasn’t wrong. Not one sign of aggression or lady managed to fall from the banana boat some special albums, numerous live albums angst in the crowd. In fact some of the security just as it was leaving the shore. Apparently and compilations bringing the total to more personnel seemed a little bored; nothing to do her clothing was rather loose and to her than 60. The band’s latest album “25 Pee Luk but enjoy the music. embarrassment, she emerged from the water Lung Khii Mao” marks their 25th anniversary. Yeunyong “Ad Carabao” Opakul, the front man naked. Another memorable time for Khun Lom Their 30th Anniversary was celebrated in 2011 for Carabao is the most well-known member of is the annual race between banana boats held (2554) and 2012 (2555) with special events and the band. However for me the performance on every September. Apparently his team came glamorous concerts throughout the provinces the Gibson ‘explorer’ guitar by Khun Lek was second last year but this year he is confident of in Thailand and on a World Tour 2011/2012 in a standout. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing victory, important for ‘bragging rights! Asia (Singapore, Vientiane, Tokyo), Australia some of the world’s best guitarist including Eric Clapton, Hank Marvin and Carlos Santana. Whenever there is an opportunity the couple (Sydney, Melbourne) and Europe (London). visit their distant families, family clearly is a To have Cha-Am as a concert venue is a real Khun Lek is a very relaxed and confident major priority. The only suggestion of just fillip for local fans. At 50 THB a ticket everyone performer. If Carabao is to be compared with enjoying time together was a recommendation had the chance to come. We noticed Khun Mr. the Rolling Stones then perhaps it would be about where the best seafood in town Nugool Pornsomboonsiri the Cha-Am Mayor at appropriate to compare him with the legendary can be found. They suggested heading the venue alongside several thousand others in Keith Richards. In February this year Carabao for Springfield Beach and checking out audience. However we didn’t have the chance joined US guitar wizard Carlos Santana onstage the Sum Neung Restaurant. Apparently to ask him if he really is a fan! After a day of non for his Bangkok show in February. I’m sure that the best value and tasting seafood – stop rain and lots of mud underfoot, we had a Khun Lek would have been right at home in that company. around; aroy maak maak! Also no banana dry night for the concert; phew! boats…………………… Our thanks to Khun Thod and the sponsors for Cha-Am Today was privileged to have front bringing this concert to Cha-Am and providing Our thanks to Khun Ad and Khun Lom row access thanks to the generosity of Khun for their welcome and for keeping their Thodsapol Methajittiphun. Khun Thod is the us with some insights into what makes Carabao falang-hating dog at a distance. If you Marketing Information Manager of the Boon ‘tick’. However let’s not forget the peaceful are looking for the banana boat ride of Rawd Trading Company Ltd, as the Company audience and the ‘weather gods’ for a rain-free your life, look for two phone boxes on the product Singha Beer was the main event evening, so that we were all able to enjoy a beach side of the road a hundred metres sponsors along with Pun Dee Rice. Khun Thod great night of Thai rock’n’roll. or so south of the White Hotel. Then described the band Members as ‘gentlemen’ NEXT CHA-AM SINGHA EVENT head for the shore line. If you tell Khun who make his job easy by being reliable and Ad Cha-Am Today sent you, he promises always on time. The concert in Cha-Am comes September 28th: Asanee – Wasan, another he will let you stay dry! as the final stage performance of a series of legendary Thai Rock band!

C 31

MEDICAL INSURANCE IN THAILAND Q.

Questions & Answers

Why a medical insurance?

Ans. Medical care can be very costly when you decide on one of the major private hospitals. The quality of care is very good and accommodation could be easily compared to a 4 * hotel, But all this has a cost! Q.

Do I need to work, have a work permit or a special visa to enjoy coverage?

Ans. No, insurance policies are available to any expatriate, even if the person has no work. This information is not required. It simply requires that the principal insured resides in the kingdom more than 180 days per year. Q.

Where can I be covered?

Ans. Most policies cover South East Asia area and abroad for periods ranging from 7 to 12 weeks per trip, according to insurers. Q.

How am I covered?

Ans. There are typically three levels of coverage, depending on your budget and expectations:

1) At the hospital (in patient) following illness or accident. 2) At hospital and outpatient care (in + outpatient) 3) At the hospital and outpatient care + dental and optical.

Will I have the choice of hospital and how are costs paid?

Ans. Most policies allow a choice of hospitals. If you stay more than 24 hours in hospital (all causes), the insurer will make a direct payment to the hospital. Q.

What is the age limit to purchase?

Ans. The age limit varies from one company to another. There are more options available for those under 65 years of age.

Health insurance is important so don’t wait!

Provided by Siam Hua Hin ‘Consulting by your side since 2007’. For more information contact SiamConsulting at Hp 085 9622232.

riving in Thailand is very different from driving in Western countries but once you get the hang of its easy as long as you make sure you have your eyes everywhere. In Thailand you are required to drive on the left hand side of the road. The maximum speed limit in cities and towns is 60km/h to 90 and 120 km/h on expressways and country roads. Wearing of seat belts is compulsory and drink driving laws apply. All insurance is invalid if drivers exceed the legal alcohol limit. It is better to have an International Driving license in Thailand or a Thai license if you are staying longer. Always make sure you have valid insurance.

sure you do not have a motorcycle overtaking as you turn. • If you are making a U-Turn or crossing a road flashing lights by a car means they are not stopping, so hang back and let them pass • When driving on the highways you will often see large trucks in front of you turn on their left or right indicator. The left means it is safe to overtake and the right means it is not safe. • Even if turning onto a one direction road make sure that you do not have motorcycles coming down the wrong way of the road • You will often see vehicles approaching you from behind flashing their lights and using their horn, use common sense and move out of the way to let them pass. • Sometimes you have to push into traffic or you won’t get anywhere, because very few people will let a driver out into their lane. • Be prepared for dogs wandering out in front of you on the more rural roads (no one wants a dead mutt on their conscience).

Thai informal rules: • One of the most important tips to remember while driving in Thailand is to beware of motorcycles. These drivers have the right of way and they take advantage of this. Motorcycles are known to go in the wrong direction and many times they make daring maneuvers that are known to cause accidents. The most important thing to remember when driving in Thailand is if a driver hits a person on Hua Hin Today cautions all drivers to drive a motorcycle, they are most likely at fault and carefully. We are not responsible for any will answer for this accident. Look at your rear accidents caused by our advice. Drive safely! view mirror side mirrors when turning to make

VISITING THE BUDDHIST TEMPLES OF THAILAND – Please Behave! Wat Tanodluang - The Cha-Am ‘Boat Temple’

as you can. • Don’t touch objects of worship, including statues or other artefacts. • Treat monks with the greatest respect; this includes not touching or being too forward in your approach. • Don’t take photos of religious observance by others, it’s private. All this shouldn’t be too hard; it’s a bit like entering a Christian cathedral. Enjoy your visit but remember where you are! About The Boat Temple The main feature of this place is the appearance of the main building called the Mahusot or ordination hall.

laces of significance to those practising or even appreciating the Buddhist religion should always be treated with respect. This means always behaving in a way which does not offend or disturb Thai people.

An example of this need applies to a very special place from a Buddhist perspective just north of Cha-Am we recently visited, colloquially known as the ‘Boat Temple’ although its real name is Wat Tanodluang. There are 18 resident monks at the temple apart from a novice or two. However There is a very big difference between a you’ll always find some other Thai people about commercial tourist attraction and a place of paying their respects. Tourists are not really in religious worship. You can visit but always be evidence. The complex is more likely to be busy respectful. when there are Buddhist celebrations such as the ordination of new monks. The temple was built in the Ayutthaya Period and some ruins remain from the original structures. Abbots dating back to 1869 to the present day are listed although there are no records of the founders. The protocol for visiting this superb example of Thai Buddhist culture is really quite simple.

This building is clearly in the shape of a VERY large boat hull with a more traditional Thai temple as the ‘superstructure’. This may best be seen from the main road and the best photographic opportunity. The inspiration for this structure is the importance of the local fishing villages nearby, though the design was based on a These ‘Rules’ should apply to any temple visits: temple a long way from the ocean. We’re not • Check with someone of authority (a Monk?) sure why that temple also looked like a boat? first before entering. Communication may need There are gates protecting the entrance to the gestures to show your request to enter buildings building with colourful gilded circular plates or taking photographs if there is a language leading to stairs onto the ‘deck’. Entering the issue. The ‘guardians’ of the temple will soon inside of the building from the ‘deck’ of the boat let you know what is OK. Behave in a respectful will probably need an escort from a Monk who is manner and you will find your hosts most affable assigned as the day’s guardian. On our visit we and welcoming. were invited to enter without our request by a • Don’t smoke inside or nearby or take food/ Monk who proved to be a very hospitable ‘tour drinks into buildings. guide’. He pointed out the magnificent marble • The chances are you will need to remove your base of the shrine and mentioned that the cost footwear. Just look for where others have left of this alone was said to be in the vicinity of 100 their shoes and follow suit. If in doubt – take million THB. At the rear of the building is a huge them off. mural based on drawings made by His Majesty • Dress in a conservative way. Ladies no the King of Thailand. revealing clothing and gents always wear a shirt! • Be quiet and don’t hurry. Be as inconspicuous Where is it? Take the road from Cha-Am North past the Cha-Am Hospital and follow the signs towards Phuktien Beach. About 5 kilometres on and you will see the temple on the left hand side of this road. Very easy to see and find! Why Visit? Because this is a real working Buddhist precinct, off the tourist map and a true example of Thai culture.

32 D