Hua Hin Today April 2012

Hua Hin Today

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Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Volume 9 Issue 6 April 2012

Bangkok Post

signs cooperation with

Hua Hin Today

T Hua Hin Today would like to wish all our faithful Readers and Advertisers a very Happy New Year and may all your wishes come true in a Safer – Greener and Healthier 2012

he Bangkok post signed a cooperation agreement with Hua Hin Today. The cooperation will initially concentrate on advertising both ways. In the Bangkok Post supplement Post@Post, in their Saturday and Sunday editions, is a special section Hua Hin was created where Hua

Hin residents and small businesses can offer goods and real estate. Eventually, the mutual endeavor will be extended to larger advertisement with linkage to other media within Thailand and on the Bangkok Post and Hua Hin Today Websites.

Songkran–Thai Waterfestival 2012

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his national celebration of the traditional Thai New Year captures the imagination of travellers for both its cultural and fun attributes; the latter being enthusiastic bouts of water splashing between friends and relatives. ….Continued on page 6….

Jazz at The Banyan Resort O

n alternating Saturdays, The Banyan Resort presents Jazz at it’s best with the Lulu Trio or alternatively guest Jazz musicians. ….Continued on page 15….

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Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Hua Hin Today Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

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Hua Hin Today

Editorial Foreword

t a legendary tennis match between two local tennis legends, legend J claimed he was leading 3 -5 in the first set but lost 6-4. It was a hot day. A Leo Yai cleared the situation afterwards. The show must go on so they arrested George Clooney and some US senators for protesting against the genocide and deliberate starving out of humans in Sudan. I thought it was a movie or TV show.

No, it was reality. I witnessed a foreign woman pushing a car with a stalled engine on a busy Hua Hin crossing whilst authorities stood by looking at the poor thing. Tourists watching as well from a distance. Great way to promote amazing Thai courtesy and hospitality.

Believe it or not, more than 100 houses were battered by a HAILSTORM in Hua Hin two weeks ago. Numerous villages were damaged, trees blown onto the Bypass highway and roof tiles flying all over the place. Fortunately no people were hurt seriously.

There was an annual meeting of the World economic Forum at which there was a lot of talk without saying a lot and even less actions as they all disagree with the other anyway. Any more loans on their way ? Thailand is doing well despite the flooding which in turn justifies to keep the Euro where it is.

Dame Edna hung up her glasses. The famous Australian comedian, iconic character of Dame Edna performs no longer. President Chavez of Venezuela returned home after his so many-eth operation, shrinking him importantly, however he will run for president in the upcoming “democratic” elections.

Viva Pancho Gonzales and Ché Guevara. Wales crush France for a fine win a week ago with a 19-9 score in

a rugby showdown whilst Jenson Button wins the Australian Grand Prix and Tennis Legend Roger Federer showed his two rivals what tennis is all about. As more and more charity events are aimed at helping the needy and less fortunate, Connect3 and team are also medically engaged to collect money for emergency operations and battling diseases.

A spontaneous charity collection saw Hua Hin residents and some better situated citizens collect Baht 200.000 for two emergency operations on a young man and young woman from Burma. I wonder if it would just be better to create a “Foundation” were money is deposited and administrated by a team of trustworthy citizens and which could be made available from case to case instead of collecting when it is needed. The IMF predicts an 8% economic growth in South east Asia in comparison to a 3.3% global growth.

Last week, Last month a world-wide survey was conducted by the UN. The only question asked was: “Could you please give your honest opinion about solutions to the food shortage in the rest of the world?” The survey was a massive failure because of the following: 1. In Eastern Europe they didn’t know what “honest” meant. 2. In Western Europe they didn’t know what “shortage” meant. 3. In Africa they didn’t know what “food” meant..

4. In China they didn’t know what “opinion” meant. 5. In the Middle East they didn’t know what “solution” meant.

6. In South America they didn’t know what “please” meant. 7. In the USA they didn’t know what “the rest of the world” meant. 8. And in the UK they hung up as soon as they heard the Indian accent. A new TV series called Smash is supposed to become a Smash hit. It stars some pretty girls and some handsome guys with a creepy director and an even more creepier Oscar winning actress.

I had a hard time not falling asleep. I really fancied Boston Legal…may it come back. Waterworld is a great place, a bit expensive if you go with 2 grown ups an 2 kids, you just spend 1500 Baht. Now there is the Black sheep farm close to the Monkol Wat ( Pala U direction).

Kids can touch sheep at the Floating Market. There are more activities slowly but surely Hua Hin is getting on the map which is one of the reasons that I am critical of bad behaviour of tourists or residents but will not report on crime as this sheds a bad light on our town. There is crime in every city in this world. I feel Hua Hin is very safe.

If you haven´t heard president Obama sing, check out You Tube. The man has a good voice. He may need it after next November. Since Franky, Bing, Elvis and Dean are gone we have no follow up anymore……

Yours truly The Editor

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Kids at the OP

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wo little kids are in a hospital, lying on stretchers next to each other outside the operating room, the first surgeries of the day. The first kid leans over and asks, “What are you in here for?”

The second kid says, “I’m getting my tonsils out, and I’m afraid.”

The first kid says, “You’ve got nothing to worry about. I had that done when I was four. They put you to sleep, and when you wake up they give you lots of Jell-O and ice cream. It’s a breeze.”

The second kid then asks, “What are you here for?”

The first kid says, “Circumcision.”

“Whoa!” the second kid replies, “Good luck, buddy. I had that done when I was born. Couldn’t walk for a year.”

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Local News

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Dusit Thani Hua Hin Certified Silver Status

By Earthcheck

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he high standard of environmental performance practiced by Dusit Thani Hua Hin has been recognized by EarthCheck; the world’s leading certifier of travel and tourism organisations.

Dusit Thani Hua Hin has joined industry leaders from more than 65 countries by being awarded EarthCheck Silver Certified status. To gain this, we have had to report our environmental footprint to independent auditors and adhere to internationally recognized standards of Best Practice.

“At Dusit Thani Hua Hin we have been making significant efforts to reduce our carbon footprint as we recognize the importance to contribute to the well-being of the communities. To ensure that we implement an extensive green policy in all possible practices, we advanced our commitment to protecting the environment by undertaking benchmarking under the EarthCheck Programme in order to receive independent and comprehensive proof of our environmental commitment and become EarthCheck certified by the end of 2011,” said

General Manager, Victor Sukseree.

During the process, Dusit Thani Hua Hin was also required to submit a year’s worth of operational data which was benchmarked against industry Best Practice. The data was then measured against a number of key indicators such as energy and water consumption, total waste production, and community commitment.

“By taking a scientific approach to measuring the effectiveness of their sustainability practices, Dusit Thani Hua Hin was able to identify where they were out-performing others and where room for improvement remained,” explained EarthCheck CEO, Stewart Moore.

“Achieving certification is not an easy task and many organisations do not make it past the basic benchmarking stage. Securing a highlyranked benchmarking result requires a strong commitment across all levels of an organization and the imbedding of sustainability principles into all policies and procedures,” Moore concluded.

For economies reliant on travel and tourism, EarthCheck’s benchmarking data provides the only historical record of the global environmental impacts of the industry over the past 12 years. More importantly, it rates

the effectiveness of industry efforts to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions (GHG) and conserve natural resources at a project-byproject level.

For travellers the world over, it’s good to know there’s a credible body keeping track of sustainability claims. The EarthCheck logo represents the travel and tourism’s efforts to come together and take meaningful steps to address the serious challenges faced by the planet.

EarthCheck is one of the world’s largest certifiers of sustainable travel and tourism operators; with more than 1,200 clients in over 65 countries. EarthCheck certification complies with the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPCC) Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories, the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) Greenhouse Gas Protocol, and the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) 14064 range of standards for greenhouse gas accounting.

HHT Editor comment : This is a great achievement. We all wish other Hotels would follow . Congratulations Khun Victor and his entire team !

Boon Thaworn : Prachuab’s open Green Showroom B

By Chamnan

oon Thaworn, a modern store of highstandard household utensils in Hua Hin, has recently been transformed into an environmentally friendly showroom to acknowledge the royal initiatives of His Majesty the King.

Mr. Wiwat Thayawat, the chief of the executive board of Boon Thaworn Ceramics Co. Ltd.

in Hua Hin, said that the company had just officially opened the 8th branch where highstandard and reasonably-priced household utensils and accessories like couches, tables, and tiles, marble as well as toiletries and imported electrical appliances are available.

With expenses for construction, goods import and land adjustment of around 500 million

We offer at least 10 different kinds of curries from North to South with rice noodles, yellow noodles or spaghetti. Famous Kao Soi

from Chiang Mai and other goodies are served at Thai local prices.

We also have a fresh vegetable buffet, Thai dessert specialties, Ice cream, herbal teas and other fresh drinks. Fresh coffee and smoothies available.

Open from 10 am -6 pm 34/7 Soi Moodbaan Khao Noi, Klongchollapratan rd. Hua Hin, Prachuabkirikhan

Tel. 081 573 4207(Eng.), 089 964 4124 (Thai)

To Pracha Ruamjit

Hua Hin Airport Soi Hua Hin 10

Community (pink bridge)

Canal

Moobaan Karat

Petchkasem Rd.

Canal

Krua Araya

Klongchollapratan Rd.

To Samor Prong Community (blue bridge)

Soi Hua Hin 58

Pae Mai Driving Range

Klai Kangwon Palace

Baht, the latest branch of Boon Thaworn´s design is conform to the city plan and landscape of Hua Hin apart from catering for the lifestyle of its residents.

“We opened in Hua Hin because the city has Klai Kang Won Royal Palace where His Majesty resides,” Mr. Wiwat said. “Since The King stayed here, Hua Hin has much developed due to many royal projects on urban improvement, namely the projects on flood prevention, anti-deforestation, protection of coastal areas and the Laem Phak Bia project in Phetchaburi which is one of the most important and well-known royal initiatives.

Realizing how concerned His Majesty is to environment, we acknowledge this concept to do our business which aims to preserve local nature and environment.”

The new branch of Boon Thaworn Store has a parking lot surrounded by many trees. Behind the showroom is a display of some royal initiative projects where customers can learn more about the projects. This area also serves as a leisure space for customers.

Boasting more than 100,000 items within its

15,000 square meter showroom, the 8th branch of Boon Thaworn Store is close to the Wang Klai Kang Won School on Phetchakasem Road, next to Plearn Wan.

Bangkok Bank Opens New Branch at Boon Thaworn

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he Bangkok Bank has recently opened an additional branch in Hua Hin at the 8th Boon Thaworn Store. This is the 647th branch in Thailand.

Due to the increasing number of Thai and foreign tourists in Hua Hin who need quick banking service, the Bangkok Bank officially opened this new branch.

The main aim of the new branch is serving local people and business people all around Hua Hin, whom want to use convenient and quick banking service. Most customers are hoteliers, retailers, exporters and foreigners in the city.

Now, the Bank is providing a lot of loan for SME investment. This service accommodates those who would like to run any business, whether big or small, in Hua Hin. “Since a lot of investors are now buying land to build guesthouses, hotels and condos, business in Hua Hin is expected to grow continuously and expand to other neighboring areas like Cha-Am and Pranburi.”

The Bangkok Bank now has over 1,000 branches throughout Thailand and 15 offices

in Europe, the US and Asia altogether. Lately, a new headquarters has been opened in China to provide banking service to both Thais and Chinese who live there. The Bangkok Bank has been in service for 68 years.

Hua Hin Today Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

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Local News

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Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Songkran - The Thai water Festival

he date of the festival was originally set by astrological calculation, but it is now fixed.

If these days fall on a weekend, the missed days off are taken on the weekdays immediately following. If they fall in the middle of the week, many Thai take off from the previous Friday until the following Monday. Songkran falls in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season. Until 1888 the Thai New Year was the beginning of the year in Thailand; thereafter 1 April was used until 1940. 1 January is now the beginning of the year. The traditional Thai New Year has been a national holiday since then. Songkran has traditionally been celebrated as the New Year for many centuries, and is believed to have been adapted from an Indian festival. It is now observed nationwide, even in the far south. However, the most famous Songkran celebrations are still in the northern city of Chiang Mai, where it continues for six days and even longer. It has also become a party for foreigners and an additional reason for many to visit Thailand for immersion in another culture.

The most obvious celebration of Songkran is the throwing of water. Thais roam the streets with containers of water or water guns (sometimes mixed with mentholated talc), or post themselves at the side of roads with a garden hose and drench each other and passersby. This, however, was not always the main activity of this festival. Songkran was traditionally a time to visit and pay respects to elders, including family members, friends, neighbors, and monks. Besides the throwing of water, people celebrating Songkran as a Buddhist festival may also go to a wat (Buddhist monastery) to pray and give food to monks.

They may also cleanse Buddha images from household shrines as well as Buddha images at monasteries by gently pouring water mixed with a Thai fragrance (Thai: น้�ำ อบไทย) over them.

It is believed that doing this will bring good luck and prosperity for the New Year. In many cities, such as Chiang Mai, the Buddha images from all of the city’s important monasteries are paraded through the streets so that people can toss water at them, ritually ‘bathing’ the images, as they pass by on ornately decorated floats. In northern Thailand, people may carry handfuls of sand to their neighborhood monastery in order to recompense the dirt that they have carried away on their feet during the rest of the year. The sand is then sculpted into stupa-shaped piles and decorated with colorful flags.

Some people make New Year resolutions - to refrain from bad behavior, or to do good things.

Songkran is a time for cleaning and renewal.

Besides washing household Buddha images, many Thais also take this opportunity to give their home a thorough cleaning.The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing and then using this “blessed” water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it on the shoulder. Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise to over 100°F or 40°C on some days).

This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles.

Nowadays, the emphasis is on fun and waterthrowing rather than on the festival’s spiritual

Foam Party “Sweet & Cool Songkran” at Hua Hin Market Village Hua Hin Market Village will celebrate the Thai New Year with a Sweet & Cool Foam Party

By Supansa

T

his year, the event, entitled, “Sweet & Cool Songkran”, will take place on 13 April from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

With the objective to foster traditional Thai culture and encourage Thai and foreign people to celebrate the Thai New Year together, the Sweet & Cool Songkran has a load of fun activities not to be missed. At the event, visitors can bathe the highly revered Buddha image of Hua Hin and ask for blessing. There will be a procession of tomtom and classical Thai female dancers. Besides water tossing, both children and adults can enjoy

the biggest foam party in Hua Hin with easylistening music throughout the event. There will also be a game to win the newest iPad and other prizes. A caravan of ice-cream and Thai-styled ice flake topped with colored syrup and condensed milk will provide thirst-quenching sweet and cool dessert complimentary, too.

For more please contact Hua Hin Market Village information at tel. 032 618888 ext. 0.

ศูนย์การค้าหัวหินมาร์เก็ตวิลเลจ จัดงานสงกรานต์กบั หวานเย็น

นายยรรยง เกษมวีรศาน ผูจ้ ดั การทัว่ ไปศูนย์การค้าหัวหินมาร์เก็ตวิจเลจเปิดเผยว่าในช่วงเดือนเมษายนทาง ศูนย์การค้ าหัวหิน มาร์เก็ตวิลเลจจะจัดงานประเพณีสงกรานต์เพือ่ ร่วมรักษาขนบธรรมเนียมประเพณีอนั ดีงามของไทยไว้ให้ ลูกหลานชาวหัวหินได้สบื ทอดต่อไป ส�ำหรับในปีนวี้ นั สงกรานต์ตรงกับวันศุกร์ที่ 13 เมษายน ทางศูนย์การค้าหัวหินมาร์เก็ต วิลเลจจึงจัดงานประเพณีสงกรานต์ขนึ้ โดยใช้ชอื่ ว่า “สงกรานต์ กะ หวานเย็น” ในวันที่ 13 เมษายน พ.ศ. 2555 ณ ศูนย์การค้าหัวหินมาร์เก็ตวิลเลจ ตัง้ แต่ 12.00 – 20.00 น. งาน”สงกรานต์กะหวานเย็น”จัดขึ้นเพื่อเป็นการสืบสานประเพณีวันสงกรานต์ให้ประชาชนได้สืบทอดและให้ ประชาชนตลอดจนนักท่องเที่ยวทั้งชาวไทยและชาวต่างประเทศได้มีส่วนร่วมกับประเพณีสงกรานต์ในปีนี้และเป็นการ สนับสนุนกิจการการท่องเทีย่ วของอ�ำเภอหัวหินซึง่ ภายในงานจะได้รว่ มสรงน�ำ้ พระพุทธรูปชือ่ ดังของเมืองหัวหิน ชืน่ ชมกับ ขบวนแห่กลองยาวและสาวงามนางร�ำ สนุกต่อกับปาร์ตสี้ งกรานต์สดุ ฉ�ำ่ กับบรรยากาศหวานเย็น บนอาณาจักรฟองโฟมทีใ่ หญ่ ทีส่ ดุ ในหัวหิน มีทงั้ โซนเด็กและโซนผูใ้ หญ่ พร้อมกับมีดนตรีสบายๆเพราะๆบรรเลงตลอดงานนอกจากนีย้ งั มีซมุ้ เกมส์ การ แข่งขันสุดยอดสงกรานต์กะหวานเย็น 2012 ชิงรางวัลnew ipad พร้อมรับของรางวัลและvoucherมากมายทีส่ �ำคัญยังมีคา ราวานไฮศครีมหวานเย็นและน�ำ้ แข็งใสหลากหลายเมนูแจกฟรีแบบไม่อนั้ ให้กบั ผูเ้ ข้าร่วมงานอีกด้วย ทางศูนย์การค้าหัวหิน มาร์เก็ตวิลเลจจึงขอเชิญชวนประชาชนชาวหัวหินร่วมงาน”สงกรานต์กะหวานเย็น”เพือ่ อนุรกั ษ์ประเพณีของไทยไว้ สามารถ สอบถามรายละเอียดเพิม่ เติมได้ที่ ศูนย์การค้าหัวหินมาร์เก็ตวิลเลจ 032-618888 ต่อ 0

and religious aspects, which sometimes prompts complaints from traditionalists. In recent years there have been calls to moderate the festival to lessen the many alcohol-related road accidents as well as injuries attributed to extreme behavior such as water being thrown in the faces of traveling motorcyclists.

The water is meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled

with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner.

Songkran is also celebrated in many places with a pageant in which young women demonstrate their beauty and unique talents, as judged by the audience. The level of financial support usually determines the winner, since, to show your support you must purchase necklaces which you place on your chosen girl.

The Biggest Songkran Festival than Before in Hua Hin Songkran will take place on 13 April at the Phon Kingphet Memorial Park in Hua Hin.

By Supansa

T

he traditional Thai New Year is normally celebrated from 13 to 14 April. Even though 1 January is declared the national and official New Year in Thailand, Songkran celebration remains much favored among Thai people and foreigners alike throughout the country. This year, Hua Hin Municipality organizes the event with the concept of paying gratitude to elders and fostering traditional Thai culture.

Highlights of Hua Hin Songkran Festival include cleansing Buddha images, particularly Phra Buddha Sihing, flower parades and blessing. Splashing water will be allowed on Songkran procession as well as pouring water the street of Hua Hin as far as it is done politely gently to elders’ shoulders to receive their and carefully to another people.

However Thai and foreign visitors can join the Songkran festival at Hua Hin as same as they did last year, the Hua Hin Municipality announced to people be careful for driving around the city and when tossing water to other people as accident may happen easily and unexpectedly.

For more information on Hua Hin Songkran Festival, please contact the Education Division, Hua Hin Municipality, at tel. 032 511 047 ext.

310.

เทศบาลเมืองหัวหินจัดยิง่ ใหญ่ งานประเพณีสงกรานต์ประจ�ำปี 2555

นายณัฐพล วรรธนะภุติ ปลัดเทศบาลเมืองหัวหิน เปิดเผยว่า วันที่ 13 เมษายน ของทุกปีถอื ว่าเป็นวัน สงกรานต์ซงึ่ ในสมัยโบราณได้ถอื วันสงกรานต์เป็นวันปีใหม่ของไทย เพราะประเทศไทยอยูใ่ นแถบร้อนจึงถือเป็นช่วงเวลาเริม่ ต้นฤดูรอ้ นประกอบกับประชาชนจะว่างเว้นจาการท�ำการเกษตร จึงจัดให้มกี ารท�ำบุญและการละเล่นร่วมกันในแต่ละจังหวัด ส�ำหรับเทศบาลเมืองหัวหินก็ได้จดั งานประเพณีสงกรานต์ให้กบั ชาวหัวหินเป็นประจ�ำทุกปี เพือ่ ด�ำรงรักษาขนบธรรมเนียม ประเพณี อันดีงามให้ประชาชนได้แสดงออกความกตัญญูกตเวทีตอ่ ผูส้ งู อายุ เป็นการส่งเสริมการท่องเทีย่ วเปิดโอกาสให้ ประชาชนและนักท่องเทีย่ วได้รว่ มกิจกรรมวันสงกรานต์ โดยจัดงานประเพณีสงกรานต์ขนึ้ ตลอดวันที่ 13 เมษายน พ.ศ.

2555 ณ บริเวณสวนสาธารณะโผนกิง่ เพชร ส�ำหรับกิจกรรมงานประเพณีสงกรานต์ในปีนภี้ ายในงานมีกจิ กรรมต่าง ๆ จัด ขึน้ มากมายเช่น การสรงน�ำ้ พระพุทธสิหงิ ค์ การรดน�ำ้ ด�ำหัวผูส้ งู อายุ การเล่นน�ำ้ สงกรานต์และขบวนแห่มหาสงกรานต์ จึง ขอเชิญชวนประชาชนตลอดจนนักท่องเทีย่ วชาวไทยและชาวต่างประเทศร่วมงานเพือ่ เป็นการสืบสานประเพณีวฒ ั นธรรมไทย เพือ่ สืบทอดให้ลกู หลานรุน่ หลังได้รว่ มกันรักษาประเพณีอนั ดีงามนีไ้ ว้ และในปีนตี้ อ้ งขอความร่วมมือจากประชาชนให้เล่นน�ำ้ สงกรานต์กนั ด้วยความสุภาพ ทีส่ �ำคัญไม่น�ำน�ำ้ มาใส่ถงุ พลาสติกแล้วปาใส่กนั เพราะจะท�ำให้เป็นอันตราย นอกจากนีต้ อ้ ง เตือนประชาชนให้ระมัดระวังในเรือ่ งของอุบตั เิ หตุตอ้ งขับรถด้วยความไม่ประมาทจะได้เทีย่ วงานประเพณีสงกรานต์อย่างมี ความสุขสนุกสนานส่วนในปีนคี้ าดว่าจะมีนกั ท่องเทีย่ วทัง้ ชาวไทยและชาวต่างประเทศหลัง่ ไหลมาเทีย่ วงานประเพณีสงกรานต์ ในปีนเี้ ป็นจ�ำนวนมาก และสามารถสอบถามรายละเอียดเพิม่ เติมได้ที่ กองการศึกษา 032-511047 ต่อ 310

Hua Hin Today Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

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Local News

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Walk Down the Memory Lane at “The Hua Hin Retro 2012”

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Hua Hin Asian Beach Polo Championship at the Intercontinental

By Supansa

By Supansa

The Hua Hin Retro 2012 will be held from 28 April to 8 May 2012 at the Queen Sirikit’s Memrorial Park, said Mr. Sarawuth Jiraphithaksakul, the acting District Chief of Hua Hin. An annual event of Hua Hin and Prachuap Khirikhan which is already included in this year’s official tourism calendar of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Hua Hin Retro 2012 will bring visitors back in time through various festive activities that relate and reflect historical background of the city which originally was a small fishing village until a railway to the south of Thailand was built and Thai elites subsequently paid a visit for holiday.

One-Product (OTOP) goods and a stage performance of leading Thai artists.

Proceeds from the event will be used to support the city’s administration and its people.

“The main reason why visitors from all over the world like to come to Hua Hin is because of top-notch accommodations, serene and relaxing atmosphere, high-quality but lowpriced seafood and generous local people in particular,” said Mr. Sarawuth. “These are key factors that attract many visitors to keep coming back here over again.”

Apart from honoring the royal wedding anniversary of Their Majesties, the Hua Hin Retro 2012 aims to promote local culture and tradition of Hua Hin and tourism of the city. Highlight activities include a tourism promotion exhibit, a photo display that tells the city’s history, a performance to celebrate Their Majesties’ wedding anniversary, a Further information of the event can be beauty pageant, a retro ballroom dance, a obtained directly at the Hua Hin District Office light and sound show, selling of One-Tambon- at tel. 032 516 256.

Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa

“Care For Community”

The Asian Beach Polo Championship B. Grimm-Intercontinental 2012 is taking place on Hua Hin beach in front of the Intercontinental Hotel from the 6th of April at 3 p.m.to 7 April.

A charity horse race held by the B. Grimm Group and the Intercontinental Hotel. There is no entrance fee.

include horse riding for kids, game booths, food and local product selling as well as a fashion show on horseback by distinguished and professional models. Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Kam Lang Jai (Moral Support) project under the royal patronage of Princess Patcharakittiyapa.

The highlight of this event is a competition between the Thai Polo Club and the Royal Pahang Polo Club from Malaysia, from which the first winner will be awarded a trophy from the Princess Patcharakittiyapa. Other activities

For more information, please contact khun Sujinda, khun Saengnapha or khun Panadda from Maxima Consultant at tel. 02 434 8300 or 02 434 8547.

Thai Elephants Day Celebration at Prachuab

By Supansa

Hua Hin, February 2012 – Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa under the Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has proud tradition of supporting the city and neighborhood around Hua Hin/Cha-Am area that we call home. We recently visited Dhammavika School for blind children to donate living essentials like clothes, drinking water and food. Our pledge is that we

will support every community and make it a better place to live, and for Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa associates to be proud of the company they work for and the communities they live in. Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa has a strong commitment to care for the local community.

Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin

Welcomes World Cyclist Wolfgang Lenzen

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March 2012: The Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin with the Rotary Club of Hua Hin, the Tour de Asia Bicycle Touring Company, Hua Hin Deputy Mayor Suvit and friends welcomed Professor Wolfgang Lenzen at Tik’s Place Restaurant and Guesthouse for an Italian-style Pasta Dinner Party on 18 March. Wolfgang is cycling 40,000 km around the world to raise 40,000 euros

for an AIDS antiretroviral drugs project in Africa and a development project for underprivileged children in Ecuador. Rotary Clubs around the world are welcoming Wolfgang to support him on his incredible journey and he is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Osnabrueck-Mitte in Germany. Visit www.wolfgangradeltumdiewelt.de/ and www. rotaryroyalhuahin.org

The Prachuab Khirikhan Provincial celebrated the Thai Elephants Day in the middle of last month within solemn Buddhist merit making ceremony for 18 elephants killed in the Kui Buri National Park.

Attended by the Prachuab Khirikhan Governor Mr. Weera Sriwattanatrakul, the Deputy Governor Ms. Nuwanna Anantakitphaisal, governmental officials, students as well as local people of the province, the event was Venerable Phra Thep Sitthiwimol, the abbot of Wat Khlong Wan Buddhist Monastery, performing the merit making ceremony statement that “wild elephants are supposed to live in the forest where there should be enough together with 9 Monks. food for them. So, people should provide the The District Chief of Kui Buri Mr. Phongphan animals with food resource by making small Wichiensamut said that Kui Buri was one of plot of lands around the forest, if the elephants many areas in Prachuab Khirikhan that enjoyed come out of the forest, people may give them diverse eco-system and complete biological protection.” Since then, cooperation from condition. A former national reserved forest, governmental and private sectors has been so this place where rare wild animals, namely wild overwhelming that a lot of food and shelters elephants, gaurs, bantengs, tigers, Asia tapirs, are provided to both elephants and other wild barking deer, green-face pheasant and various animals in the Kui Buri National Park. birds, dwell together. Invasion of investors and local people once sparked a conflict between With an aim to honor elephants, the animals man and elephants so extremely that many of that have been living in Thailand for so long the animals were killed. When His Majesty that they symbolize the country, the Thai the King acknowledged the fact, he launched Elephants Day raises awareness on problems a royal project to restore the condition of Kui of human and elephants in Thailand. It also Buri’s national reserved forest until the Kui encourages people to love and protect wildlife Buri National Park was established officially and promotes eco tourism. on July 5, 1999. Following His Majesty’s Apart from the Buddhist merit making for Thai elephants, highlight activities included an exhibit about history of Kui Buri elephants, an activity of the youth group, painting on the elephant’s body and a drawing contest. During the event, participants were asked to dig a moat of over 300 meters that would help protect farmer’s reservoirs and agricultural areas from wild elephants. The evening activities featured an elephant watching trip, a light and sound show on the historical background of Kui Buri and charity concert of Phala Phol, a famous Thai singer, to raise some fund for a wild elephant foundation.

Hua Hin Today Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

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In The City

WELCOMES BHUTANESE PRINCESS

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acques Mury (left), General Manager of Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin recently welcomed Princess Ashi Khendum Dorji from Bhutan (right) on her visit and stay at the hotel.

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Good Deeds Beget Good Results

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he acting District Chief of Hua Hin Mr. Sarawuth Jiraphithakkul, Dr. Thaweesak Dejapanya and the founder of the Hua Hin Artist Village Mr. Thawee Kesa-ngarm gave an honorary award to Mrs. Pha-ngard Klakhai, Mrs. Thongphun Yingyong and Mrs. Kimlang Thalenoi, the three senior activists of Baan Takiab Community who succesfully take care of and carried out campaigns on protection of public areas on the beach for the sake of the community’s use.

Kindness of Hua Hin Doctor

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WARM WELCOME

annate Jannopparat (2nd right), Director of Rooms of Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin recently welcomed a famous Film Maker and Director Noppol Gomarachun (2nd left) with Preeyanuch Panpradub (left) and Charm Osathanond (right).

Rose Sirinthip at The McFarlane House – Hyatt

by GMoss

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hill Out ! – It could not get any better. Sweet Rose and her guitar, snacks, drinks and a sea breeze. It does not get any more romantic either.

Rose is a Chansonier from Bangkok, an upper class entertainer of the sweetest sort. Her voice is of pure silk and her guitar skills flawless.

Rose was born in Ubon Ratchathani where she attended the first three years of primary. Soon after that, she moved to Hong Kong where she went to primary and high school. Once back in Thailand she finished high school and studied French Arts with majors in Chinese and English.

Rose can play the piano, guitar, drums and bass, an absolute multi talent and was awarded Best Female Solo Artist in 2005. Rose has made 3 solo albums with” Ice on Hand” – “Flowers in Hand” and “Rock it”. All of this can be heard on

T

he Deputy Director of Hua Hin Hospital Doctor Aphiradee Chotkittiphong gave 10,000 Baht cash to Mr. Phano Chanthawong, the head of Phuen Tai Hua Hin Group. The money will be used to take care of Thai and foreign patients suffering from kidney problems or diseases.

Kindness of Hua Hin Doctor

her website: www.rosefanclub.com. The music Rose played at McFarlane House inspired us all to listen to her vocals. It was an unforgettable evening filled with happy tunes and good food and drinks. We all wish Rose can come back soon to treat us to her music.

Latin Nights at The Hilton Milestones Bar

The Latin night was composed of fabulous music, food and wine. It is a perfect place to meet with friends and other families, listen to New Metropolis live band and indulge in a Fiesta Latina, swinging your Cha Cha and Cumbia legs whilst your taste buds go Latin! The Latin buffet is sumptuous and leave no wishes open. There is a great variety of South American food, some amous for it´s life music and gorgeous a bit spicy but most of it mild and tasty. With a Filipino girls singing, the Milestones Bar free flow of wine, red and white, your evening has much more to offer these days. On Tuesday out is guaranteed a success. The Prime of Rib, evenings there is a theme dinner. The one I slow cooked and tender impresses. The New attended was Latin Night @Milestones.

Metropolis band sang many Latin American The Milestones Bar offers an upscale ambiance tunes but a potpourri from Mamma Mia sounded with live music and great food. as good as the original from Abba.

F

T

he Deputy Director of Hua Hin Hospital Doctor Aphiradee Chotkittiphong gave 10,000 Baht cash to Mr. Phano Chanthawong, the head of Phuen Tai Hua Hin Group. The money will be used to take care of Thai and foreign patients suffering from kidney problems or diseases.

In Memoriam of H.E. Boonchu

Wedding at the Centara Grand – Juttamas Boonrat

H

ua Hin Today extends their very warmest congratulations and best wishes for their wedding which took place on March the 17th.

More than 350 friends, relatives and Family

of the lovely couple attended the wedding at the Centara Grand Resort in Hua Hin where Juttamas “ Khun Aou” is the Banquet Director and long time friend of Hua Hin Today.

O

n 19 March, Mr. Suraphol Rakkarnkusol, the director of the technical unit of Chiva-Som, and Mr. Krib Rojanasathira organized a Buddhist ceremony to pay homage to the Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Boonchu Rojasathira, Mr. Krib’s father and the founder of Chiva-Som Hua Hin. The activity also marked the 5th year that H.E. Boonchu has passed away

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

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Hua Hin Today

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Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

In our clinic we regard hygienic standards at the highest level. Our clinic always provide a safe, clean and disinfected environment for each patient with hospital cleanliness standards and steriligation technic employed. All of our equipment and instrument are maintain and sterihiged accourding to international standards using certified steriligation machine and maintenance units. Our dental applianees are individualy packed and sealed then autoclaved by pre-vacaumed autoclave unit in view packs for each patient.

Our Service:

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Address : 63/15-16 Chomsin Road, Hua Hin, Prachuabkhirikhan, 77110 Tel : 032 535 599 Fax : 032 535 618 Email : sales@huahinbakery.com Website : www.huahinbakery.com

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Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

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Volume 9 Issue 6 April 2012

2nd Onyx Golf Masters - Pattaya

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he Onyx Hospitality Group organized the 2nd Onyx Golf Masters at The Siam Plantation Golf Club just outside Pattaya on Highway 36 going South on the otherside of our Gulf of Siam The ONYX Hospitality Group operates three diverse yet complementary hotel brands – Saffron, Amari and Ozo - each catering to the distinctive requirements of today’s business and leisure travelers. ONYX reaches beyond its Thai roots to offer innovative management solutions across the Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf and Asia-Pacific regions. Catering to both business and leisure travelers, featuring mid to upscale hotels, Amari currently has an inventory exceeding 3,000 rooms. Its network of 11 properties spans Thailand, from scenic seaside and mountain locations such as Koh Chang, Phuket and Krabi, to vibrant urban settings including Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Amari Hua Hin, opening in May 2012 is located on 7.5 acres in the popular Thai seaside town, offering 223 rooms and suites as part of a mixed use development project that will also feature luxury condominiums.

New developments underway include Amari Residences Bangkok. Scheduled to open in September 2010, the property will be the first to fully showcase Amari’s revitalized brand positioning. Located adjacent to the Bangkok Hospital, the 128-room serviced apartment development will target short and long term visitors, especially those visiting the city for medical treatments.

The Siam Country Club Plantation - Golf Course is a dream course, located just 15 minutes from Pattaya beach with the fantastic views of the Gulf of Thailand and the beaches of Pattaya. It is not only Pattaya’s longest golf course it is one of the longest courses in Thailand. This difficult and challenging course features blind shots, giant high lipped bunkers, elevated greens and shaved fringes on every hole, making the course a must play for even the most experienced golfer. For golfers wishing to get ready for their round the course has world class practise facilities including putting greens, driving range with pitching area and a sand bunker. The course will have you returning time and time again!

And it did! Most participants of course were good Golf players, others just average and a few very beginners. The Major of Hua Hin, a senior hobby player amazed us all with perfect shots and well lined up second shots. The editor is not a Golf player but I would say that his forehand shots were precise ( I am a Tennis Player).

As Onyx is an Amari Resort operator, the GM of The Hua Hin Amari, Simon Dell, was paired up with the Hua Hin Major Khun Jarid.

Definitely to promote close future cooperation, it was Simon´s duty to make sure the Major

came through better on the scorecard.

Simon did his best to promote Khun Jarid but it was not easy. Finally however the best one won. Both the Amari PR, Khun Chaya and your editor had great fun watching the Golf from a distance, always keeping well behind the club swingers as some of them became reputational side swingers seeking for golf balls that disappeared into ponds and bushes far away from the fairways.

Asia Pacific leads commercial real estate investment in 2012 : DTZ Research A

sia Pacific continues to lead the way for commercial real estate investment with 33 per cent of investment capital expected to come from outside the region, according to the DTZ Research.Titled ‘The Great Wall of Money’, DTZ’s latest data shows increased levels of cross border investment into Asia Pacific as well as Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) during 2012.While Asia Pacific continues to be a bright spot for investment, capital available for investment this year has declined 6 per cent to US$298 billion from an estimated US$316 billion as of mid2011.It also represents a 9 per cent fall on the peak recorded a year ago.For the first time, there was a fall in new capital in the America, Asia Pacific and EMEA.DTZ said the reduction in the amount of capital estimated to be available for investment in 2012 reflects the current environment of less available and more expensive debt“The amount of equity we estimate available for investment actually grew 4 per cent to US$139 billion. But, this was more than offset by a 12 per cent reduction in debt available to US$160 billion. Therefore we are not surprised to see funds reduce their target gearing as they seek to place more equity into deals,” said Nigel Almond, associate director of forecasting & strategy at DTZ and author of the report.

by GMoss

According to DTZ, existing funds have started to put capital to work reducing the remaining raised capital for deployment in 2012 from US$285 billion to US$246 billion over the last six months.The report also notes a reversal of recent trends with a marked increase in new fund raisings.On the other hand, funds are targeting to raise up to US$53 billion in new capital for deployment in 2012.This is a significant increase on the US $30billion recorded six months ago.

The average loan-to-value (LTV) ratio was down from 58 per DTZ latest research tracks new capital targeting direct real estate and the investment opportunities this capital is targeting. cent to 54 per cent.

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Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Thai Property News

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Jazz nights at The Banyan Resort

Grand Opening Marrakesh Resort & Spa

by GMoss

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T

he official grand opening of Marrakesh Resort and Spa brought an enchanting Moroccan influence to the seaside town of Hua Hin. Titled ‘’The Rising Journey’’ under an Arabian Nights theme, the launch highlighted perfectly the neoMoroccan architecture which makes the resort stand out in the centre of Prachuap Khiri Khan’s popular beach town. Jirapa Akkaraj, an absolute lovely personality and General Manager of the Resort, said the architectural style lends an air of magic and mystery to the atmosphere in paradise.

Guests enjoyed loads of fun activities at the poolside party. There were photo shoots at several locations in the resort, henna body art painting, gypsy fortune-telling and belly dancing. Tasty Moroccan food was prepared by the resort’s chefs.

Highlighting the evening was a show depicting Arab love stories by Thai sand artist Kongkiat Kongjandee, a contestant in the Thailand’s Got Talent TV programme, followed by a musical performance from Sathida Prompiriya, the first

Thai winner at the World Championships of Performing Arts, who churned out I Will Always Love You and You Are Not Alone in memory of Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson respectively. As the night wore on artists from ETC serenaded guests as they enjoyed the warm ‘’Arabian’’ night breeze.

Hotel general manager Jirapa Akkaraj, an absolute lovely personality, can look forward to a “Thousand and one nights” affair with this stunning Resort & Spa. The rooms are brilliantly designed with the main suites having a Sala on top where a sea view can be enjoyed whilst relaxing under the stars.

Restaurants serve Moroccan, Asian and Intercontinental Food. The Spa is a mystic place with a Moroccan Steam Bath and other Arab, Thai and Swedish applications.

All together a great place to be ant to want to be.

An absolute contribution to making Hua Hin a number 1 Tourist Destination.

roperty firms agree with the idea of revising the first-home mortgage policy as the Government Housing Bank has only provided THB2 billion (US$64.9 million) in loans since the scheme was launched late last year.

Finance minister Kittiratt NaRanong said he would revise the programme, which offers zero interest for the first three years of a mortgage for people who buy their first home if it costs less than THB1 million (US$32,499).

The property market is still showing slow growth claims Prasert Taedullayasatit, Pruksa Real Estate director and chief business officer “We believe that if the government revised upwards the [maximum] price for the firsthome scheme, that would help the market recover in the second half of this year,” he said.

The property market in the first quarter of this year has seen slow growth compared with the

same period last year because of lingering flood fears but the market is expected to recover in the second quarter according to The Nation.

The Thai Real Estate Association, the Thai Condominium Association and the Housing Business Association opened the Home & Condo Show at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok, which will run until Sunday.

Many property firms and commercial banks are offering special financial packages to boost sales and new mortgages.

NC Housing has joined with Siam Commercial Bank and Kasikornbank to offer mortgages with zero interest for the first six months.

600 residential projects worth more than THB100 billion (US$3.24 billion) will be showcased at the event.

At the Banyan, A local trio plays popular Jazz music that we all understand and like. At times, the Lulu Trio will bring a guest star to perform with them. As Jazz is really in its diapers in Thailand, there is of course a marginal quality difference between them and famous international bands, but nevertheless very entertaining and enjoyable giving us all.The Banyan offers a famous and legendary Fondue Bouguignonne at the Lemongrass Restaurant outside, covered by two huge tent-like roofs with a fresh breeze cooling off the evening.

There is also an a la carte menue with regular prices. Call The Banyan first before going there to check out if that Saturday there is live music at 032 538 888 or book through Email at : booking@banyanthailand.com.

Come and see for yourself how cozy it is and bring your friends!

Tune Hotel Pattaya a Different Experience

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s I approached the Tune Hotel in Pattaya I did not know what to expect. The hotel is located in Pattaya Sai 2 Road, easily accessible and only minutes away from Pattaya Beach, famous shopping centre, city’s entertainment and all major tourist attractions and about 1 hour away from Suvarnabhumi Bangkok International Airport, just 5 minutes walk from Beach Road and beach. As I approached the reception area I was welcomed with a smile.

Yes they had my booking and my room was ready. Checking in was a funny experience Courtesy of property report as I was handed a bag with a towel, the TV remote, shampoo and a piece of soap and a magnetic card which opens the Hotel door after midnight, operates the lift and opens your room, activates the electricity in your room.

Then, I was asked if I wanted air conditioning and how long, 12 hours, 24 hours ? What about TV UBC, Wifi ? Strange but not unreasonable.

You will need to pay the room in advance.

Finance minister to revise first-home mortgage policy

P

azz music is on the rise and live Jazz music is becoming very popular in Hua Hin. In a short time there are more Jazz joints than any other music type including Thai traditional music and dances.Now Jazz is not everyone´s favourite music but everyone pretends they know all about Jazz. Well., they don´t. Jazz comes in so many different variations and themes that only experts can identify the origin. Jazz and Blues originated in black neighborhoods now called Afro American neighborhoods of New Orleans USA. Jazz and blues told stories about daily life and it was a means of expressing your feeling through music. From initial black musicians with trumpets, saxophones and other instruments, gradually other, also white musicians were born. However, the most famous and founder of Jazz in the USA was Louis Amstrong, the Jazz Legend. Amongst other we want to mention:

You pay a basic price for the room and add packages for your own comfort and or needs.

Depending on the season and occupancy rate, the daily price, promotion is offered.

It may be 199 Baht but could be 800 baht in the high season. With all the package deals on air conditioning and entertainment (TV), you price may grow to 1100, 1200 Baht or a lot less.Sometimes, all you really need from a hotel is a hot shower and a good night’s rest. That’s why, their limited service hotels offer beds at very affordable prices by getting rid of costly full service extras (pools, spas, saunas, room service or the like) that you just don’t need and shouldn’t have to pay for. The

by GMoss

bathroom facilities were very good, a great shower with real hot water of which some more expensive hotels lack off.However, the rooms are modern, simple, clean, and practical.

The Double room has a queen size bed which is very comfortable. The twin Rooms have two single size beds. Negative: No mini-bar. Your only possibility for drinks and food are the outside Marts and Restaurants. Big deal, when you´re out you don’t eat in your hotel anyway.

The ladies at reception were friendly and as I handed the bag with the used towel and TV remote back, I was practically checked out.

This new concept of hotel really works for me.

The room is clean, bed is super comfy and if I don’t need the TV I just don’t have to buy the add-ons. I wish there are more of Tunes in other countries because it’s perfect for a traveller like me!

Thanks to Tune hotels for their hospitality. I am sure this concept will be the future of many others to come.

Tune Hotels Thailand can be found in Hat Yai and Pattaya .Bookings: Tel : +66 2 613 5888 and Skype Email : enquiry.thai@tunehotels. com

Hua Hin Today

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Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

C-540628-23

Marrakesh condo Hua Hin 81 s.qm. 2 brs. 2 bths. Best Location, Best view! Sale 13.5 MB. Call 083-710-9944

C-520207-03

Baan Sansuk Hua Hin 76 sq.m, 2 brs. 2 bths. Pool view, Corner unit.

Beachfront condo. Special price 7.7 MB. Call 083-710-9944

C-540316-24

Marrakesh Condo Hua Hin 53 sq.m. 1 br. 1 bth. Brand new beach front condo, F/F Rent 40,000 baht/month Sale 5.5 MB. Call 083-710-9944

C-540628-23

Baan Chai Talay Hua Hin 120 sq.m. 2 brs. 2 bths. F/F, beautiful Condo, good view Only 12.5 MB. Call 083-710-9944

C-521123-23

Rim hard Condo Cha Am 90 sq.m, 2 brs. 2 bths. Beachfront condo, good view, big bacony Sale 7.35 MB. Call 083-710-9944

C-521020-29

Sandy Beach Cha-am 98 sq.m., 1 br., 1 bth. , F/F ,beachfront condo, conner unit.

The spacious balcony offers .Sea view . Sale 4.7 MB. Call 083-710-9944

C-541129-04

Marrakesh Condo Hua Hin Condo 81.53 sq.m. 2 brs. 2 bths. F/F. Sea and Pool view.

Rent 65,000 Baht/month Sale 15 MB. Call 083 710 9944

C-540920-31

The Breeze Hua-Hin 95 sq.m. 2 brs. 2 bths. Beautiful Condo, F/F Rent 35,000 baht/month Sale 5.5 MB. Call 083-710-9944

C-510815-42

Mykonos condo Hua Hin. “53 sq.m. 1 br. 1 bth. Peachful and greenery.

Rent 30,000 bath /month Sale 4 MB. Call 083 710 9944”

C-500919-01

“Baan Sandao Condo Hua Hin 74 sq.m., 2 brs. 2 bths. F/F. Corner unit. Beach front condo. Best location.”

Only 8.7 MB. (under market price). Call 083-710-9944

C-540723-23

Santi Pura Condo Pranburi 104 sq.m. 2 brs. 2 bths. F/F Beachfront sea view condo, Sale 5.5 MB. Call 083-710-9944

C-510816-12

Tira Tiraa condo Hua HIn 43 sq.m. 1 br. 1 bth. Opened concept. Well decorated.

Best price! only 2.98 MB. Foreigner freehold!

Call 083-710-9944

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

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Asia Property News

1St Hua Hin Ryder Cup Charity & Challenge

Courtesy of http://www.property-report.com

he Boonrawd Brewery Public Co. Ltd. and the Singha Group for Youth Golf Development are organizing a charity golf championship between municipal executives and staff and businesspeople in Hua Hin to welcome summer and raise some fund to train young golfers from the city.

Following a press conference at Mai Mon Restaurant in Hua Hin on 19 March at 8 p.m. which was attended by Dr. Pramot Petchsart, Mr. Amnart Paankaew and Mr. Jongrak Janthawong, the director of Nong Phlab Witthaya School, the event, entitled, “1st Hua Hin Ryder Cup Charity & Challenge”, will take place on 1 April at the Hua Hin Royal Golf Course.

The highlight of the game features 7 teams of municipal executives and staff led by the Prachuab Khirikhan Governor Mr. Weera Sriwatthanatrakul and 7 teams of businesspeople in Hua Hin led by Mr. Chumphol Choksuchart.

This game begins at 9 a.m. and finishes at 5 p.m. throughout the game, an orchestra of Nong Phlab Witthaya School will perform music at the first and the 10th cups. Afterwards, the winner will be awarded a trophy and a dinner banquet will be arranged.

The proceeds from the golf championship, which is estimated to be around 700,000 to 800,000 Baht, will be donated to the Singha Group for Youth Golf Development to improve golfing skills of the young generation until they are as professional and well-known as Tiger Woods.

Dr. Pramot said that the 1st Hua Hin Ryder Cup Charity & Challenge would be a legendary golf championship because it was the first time the municipal executives and local businesspeople

he luxury hotel Capella Singapore is now offering a three-bedroom villa for long-term rentals at S$42,000 (US33,500) a month the Post-Gazette reported. This will make it one of the most expensive rental properties in the citystate.“We are targeting at least a two-year lease,” said Robert Lagerwey, general manager of the fiver-star hotel. Capella opened in March of 2009 on the island of Sentosa and includes features such as a glass-walled family room and private swimming pool.The house covers 436 square metres on two floors and was built in the 1880′s as quarters for British Army artillery officers.

Now, Jaya Ibrahim, an Indonesian interior designer, has incorporated the buildings colonial aspects with new parquet flooring, shutters and pelmets.According to Patrick Lai, director of corporate residential leasing for the Singapore office of Savills, one of the villas’s marketing agencies, “the tenant will probably be the head of a multinational corporation.” “For someone with the stature of a regional or global C.E.O., living

T

met on the golf course. However, the more intensely they fight for the trophy, the stronger their friendship will become.

After the Singha Group for Youth Golf Development has produced youth golfers for 5 years, 3 of them succeeded the international standard. Previously, most of the budget was from the Singha Corporation and Mr. Prayat Maaksaek, a professional golfer of Thailand and also a Hua Hin native. With the proceeds from this event, the Group will be able to work more effectively, added Mr. Amnart.

Apart from the highlight stated earlier, Mr. Prayat will attend the event and show how to play golf by himself so that young golfers can learn from him, too.

Finally, Mr. Jongrak concluded that the teachers and students of his school were very pleased to participate in this event and perform music for the golfers. He believed that the music, played at the start until the end of the tournament, will boost aesthetic emotion among golfers and audiences.

Condo prices near Singapore’s two casinos fizzle post opening Courtesy of http://www.property-report.com

In

2007, for instance, prices of luxury condominiums on Sentosa rose 41.7 per cent while those in Marina Bay registered a growth of 30.6 per cent.

This was higher than the 25.7 per cent growth recorded in the URA’s CCR index.

In the one-and-a-half years leading to the opening of the IRs, the capital values of condominiums in the vicinities of Marina Bay and Sentosa rose by 65.3 per cent and 38.5 per cent respectively, driven by the excitement of the IR coupled with the economic recovery.

Indeed, during the period, there were of plenty of speculators in the market flipping properties at The Sail, near to Marina Bay Sands.

The Sail frequently changed hands – sometimes by more than double the per sq ft value.

In comparison, the URA CCR index saw a smaller increase of 28.9 per cent during the period starting from the first quarter of 2009 to the second quarter of 2010.

Marina Bay area commands better rental values Rentals also appeared to have fizzled out on Sentosa. Long before the completion of Resorts World Sentosa, the island recorded higher rental values due to the initial attraction of a new waterfront living lifestyle.

Median rents of condominiums in Sentosa (proxied by median rents in Southern Islands downloaded from URA REALIS) rose to a high of S$7.28 per sq ft (US$5.80 per sq ft) per month in the fourth quarter of 2007 while median rents in other prime areas were only S$3.87 per sq ft (US$3.09 per sq ft) per month.

Shortly after, median rents fell and were almost on part with other rentals in the end of 2009 and 2011 – slightly above S$4 per sq ft (US$3.19 per sq ft).

It only rose temporarily in 2010 during the opening of Resorts World Sentosa.

“A contributing factor to the fall in rents in Sentosa could be the relative lack of public transport links to the island, compared to

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Singapore offers long-term luxury rentals

Courtesy of http://www.property-report.com

T

Hua Hin Today

the mainland,” the report states.

The Marina Bay area appeared to command better rental values.

As of the fourth quarter of 2011, rentals are slightly above S$6 per sq ft (US$4.78 per sq ft).

On the overall, rentals in Marina Bay are higher than other prime condominiums at around S$4 per sq ft (US$3.19 per sq ft).

Prior to the opening of Marina Bay Sands – from the first quarter of 2009 to the second quarter of 2010 - median rents around the area increased at a faster pace compared to other condominiums during the same period – at around S$6 per sq ft (US$4.78 per sq ft).

It rose by about 35 per cent – more than twice the 15 per cent recorded in other condominiums.

DTZ said this could have been due in part to the attraction of views of fireworks and events held at the bay and completions of major office buildings such as Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 1 and Tower 2 in 2010.

After the opening of Marina Bay Sands, rentals dipped slightly before making a recovery in the third quarter of 2011.

DTZ expects housing prices and rents in Marina Bay and Sentosa Cove to move more in tandem with the rest of those in the prime areas in future after the initial volatility.

It also said accessibility, growth potential and local government plans are more important factors that would impact on the capital and rental values of private homes as opposed to the IRs.

in a home that is managed by Capella is a huge plus,” said Lai. Ku Swee Yong, chief executive of International Property Advisor, a local real estate agency not associated with the property, said it was those extras that probably pushed the fee beyond the 25,000- to 35,000-dollar monthly rents usually charged in Singapore for the popular colonial-era homes with distinctive black and white exteriors.

MIPIM Asia prepares to showcase developments from across Asia Pacific

Courtesy of http://www.property-report.com

H

ong Kong’s West Kowloon Cultural District redevelopment, Taiwan’s Taichung Gateway District eco-project and Russia’s Northern Caucasus Resorts development, are among a host of major real estate initiatives that will be on show at the sixth edition of MIPIM Asia, the world’s property market in Asia Pacific, taking place in Hong Kong, in November.

A supporter of MIPIM Asia since the launch of the show in 2006, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will exhibit several projects of its Development Bureau. Last year, Secretary for Development, Carrie Lam, announced a revised, more inclusive strategy of urban renewal “to more efficiently put to optimum re-use precious land resources in the centre of urban Hong Kong.”

The 40-hectare West Kowloon Cultural District is one of the masterplan redevelopments for which the Hong Kong government is consulted, with construction likely to begin in 2013 and the prospect of a new high-speed rail station to open in 2015, bringing the eight million inhabitants of Guangzhou within 50 minutes of the newly attractive district.

Another long-term MIPIM Asia attendee is Taiwan, with a delegation that includes exhibitors from central and local government.

In 2011, the Taichung City Government will showcase a 254-hectare eco-project which will be completed by 2016 in Taichung Gateway District.

Representing a US$3.3 billion investment, the project is located in one of the most populous cities of Taiwan, which has become a target for both local and overseas hypermarket chains as a growing number of high-spending visitors arrives from China. Since Taiwan opened its borders to tour groups from China in 2008, the country has made more than US$6.94bn from Chinese tourism.

Delegates attending MIPIM Asia in November will have the chance to learn more about Taiwan’s property market with Mayor of Taichung, Jason C. Hu, and Dr. Christine Y. Liu, Minister of the Council for Economic Planning and Development, speaking in the official MIPIM Asia conference programme.

South Korea, which recorded a 6.2 per cent economic growth rate last year and which hosts the World Expo in 2012, will be particularly visible on the MIPIM Asia exhibition floor.

Jeollanam-Do Provincial Government will present four major initiatives including the Saemangeum Development Project, a publiclybacked scheme to connect Gunsan City and Buan City on the west coast of South Korea and to create an economic hub serving business, industry and tourism.

For the first time, Malaysia will have a dedicated

pavilion at MIPIM Asia to promote materplans that are under way from Kuala Lumpur to Borneo, including the 152-acre Light Waterfront

by IJM in Penang.

According to Kumar Tharmalingam, CEO of Malaysia Property Incorporated (MPI), the new Malaysian pavilion will reflect the very best of the country’s cultural diversity: “Partnering with renowned architectural firm Hijjas Kasturi draws the finest elements of our cultural heritage into an exposition structure that not only demonstrates the rich ethnic diversity of Malaysia, but also showcases to the region that Malaysia is a prime

gateway in Asia for living and commerce.” Kumar Tharmalingam will also speak in the MIPIM Asia conference programme and provide insight into investment opportunities in developing versus mature REIT markets.

Beyond the national pavilions, MIPIM Asia’s exhibiting hall will showcase many property developments from China including from the rapidly-developing Shanghai market.

Architecture, design and planning specialists, Arquitectonica, will present two curvaceous towers for two separate bank headquarters, the centrepiece of a 260,000 sqm waterfront mixeduse development in the Pudong New District, forming a balanced gateway to the Huangpu River.

Global consulting and engineering firm Poyry will also unveil the 90,000 sqm cultural and sports complex which it has designed in Shanghai’s Baoshan District. The innovative scheme includes an NBA-standard 14,000 seat basketball arena, catering for more than 20 different indoor sports and capable of hosting concerts and other events to drive attendance and revenues.

MIPIM Asia will feature major developments from Central and Western Asia, such as the Northern Caucasus Resorts project, a US$15 billion, fiveresort ski area in the Russian Federation that’s expected to attract 10 million visitors per year.

Russian president Dmitry Medvedev created a special fund and authorised financing guarantees to support the massive undertaking, which will attract hotel, retail and real estate investment, as well as substantial infrastructure projects.

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

19

20

GOLF & SPORTS

1St Hua Hin Ryder Cup Charity & Challenge

By Chamnan

T

he Boonrawd Brewery Public Co. Ltd. and the Singha Group for Youth Golf Development are organizing a charity golf championship between municipal executives and staff and businesspeople in Hua Hin to welcome summer and raise some fund to train young golfers from the city.

Following a press conference at Mai Mon Restaurant in Hua Hin on 19 March at 8 p.m. which was attended by Dr. Pramot Petchsart, Mr. Amnart Paankaew and Mr. Jongrak Janthawong, the director of Nong Phlab Witthaya School, the event, entitled, “1st Hua Hin Ryder Cup Charity & Challenge”, will take place on 1 April at the Hua Hin Royal Golf Course.

The highlight of the game features 7 teams of municipal executives and staff led by the Prachuab Khirikhan Governor Mr. Weera Sriwatthanatrakul and 7 teams of businesspeople in Hua Hin led by Mr. Chumphol Choksuchart. This game begins at 9 a.m. and finishes at 5 p.m. throughout the game, an orchestra of Nong Phlab Witthaya School will perform music at the first and the 10th cups.

Afterwards, the winner will be awarded a trophy and a dinner banquet will be arranged.

The proceeds from the golf championship, which is estimated to be around 700,000 to 800,000 Baht, will be donated to the Singha Group for Youth Golf Development to improve golfing skills of the young generation until they are as professional and well-known as Tiger Woods.

Dr. Pramot said that the 1st Hua Hin Ryder Cup Charity & Challenge would be a legendary golf championship because it was the first time the municipal executives and local businesspeople met on the golf course. However, the more intensely they fight for the trophy, the stronger

their friendship will become.

After the Singha Group for Youth Golf Development has produced youth golfers for 5 years, 3 of them succeeded the international standard. Previously, most of the budget was from the Singha Corporation and Mr. Prayat Maaksaek, a professional golfer of Thailand and also a Hua Hin native. With the proceeds from this event, the Group will be able to work more effectively, added Mr. Amnart.

Apart from the highlight stated earlier, Mr. Prayat will attend the event and show how to play golf by himself so that young golfers can learn from him, too.

Finally, Mr. Jongrak concluded that the teachers and students of his school were very pleased to participate in this event and perform music for the golfers. He believed that the music, played at the start until the end of the tournament, will boost aesthetic emotion among golfers and audiences.

Local Football Team needs more Support

By Chamnan

C

ooperation from public and private sectors in Hua Hin is required to improve Hua Hin City F.C., the local football team, to reach an international standard.

The Deputy Superintendent of the National Thai Police Office and the manager of Hua Hin City F.C., this football team are composed of 25 Thai youths from Hua Hin and foreign young players. Despite a lot of football matches organized frequently in Hua Hin, support for the team is so limited that access to international matches is hardly possible.

Pol. Col. Traechai added that regulations applied to all team members resembled those of Europe. Payment for coaches, staff and players is around 100,000 Baht per month.

Recently, the team has won a provincial match and is now preparing for national competitions.

The manager of Hua Hin City F.C. also encouraged local youths of Hua Hin who dream of being professional footballers to undergo a screening test because this team belongs to Hua Hin the same as Manchester United is from England. In the future, he will propose the executive board of Hua Hin Municipality to allocate some budget to launch a year-round community league in Hua Hin so that football will be played frequently.

“If we successfully do so, this will support local football teams and new players can advance their skill and have opportunities to go to a higher level,” said Pol. Col. Traechai. “So, businesspeople and entrepreneurs in Hua Hin should play a role by sponsoring us so that we will use this chance to make Hua Hin famous on sport.”

At present, Mr. Santi Bhirombhakdi from Boonrawd Brewery Public Company and Mr. Khanis Choksuchart from Kuoy Khuong Seng Hua Hin are providing sponsorship to Hua Hin City F.C. The Hua Hin Municipality has lately signed a contract to promote the team for all football matches of local, provincial and regional levels.

“Should everything go along well, me, as the team manager, and Lt. Col. Thanakit Chantharat, the team president, will do our best to make our dream come true like the football team from Buriram province,” concluded Pol. Col. Traechai.

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

กอล์ฟการกุศล HUA HIN RYDER CUP CHARITY & CHALLENG ครัง้ ที่ 1

บริษทั บุญรอดฯ จ�ำกัดและชมรมสิงห์พฒ ั นากีฬากอล์ฟเยาวชนหัวหิน เปิดศักราชกอล์ฟการกุศลระหว่างทีมเจ้า เมืองฯ และทีมนักธุรกิจ – พ่อค้าชาวเมืองหัวหิน รับฤดูซมั เมอร์ รายได้เพือ่ น�ำเป็นกองทุนดูแลช่วยเหลือพัฒนาเยาวชนกอล์ฟ ในเขตเมืองหัวหินสูม่ อื อาชีพระดับชาติ เวลา 20.00 น. วันที่ 19 มีนาคม ทีร่ า้ นอาหารไม้หมอน อ.หัวหิน จ.ประจวบฯ ดร. ปราโมทย์ เพชรศาสตร์ นายอ�ำนาจ ป่านแก้ว และนายจงรัก จันทวงศ์ ผอ.ร.ร.หนองพลับวิทยา ได้รว่ มกันเปิด “แถลงข่าว” เนือ่ งด้วยในวันที่ 1 เมษายน 2555 ทีส่ นามกอล์ฟหลวงหัวหิน นายสันติ ภิรมย์ภกั ดี กรรมการผูจ้ ดั การใหญ่ บ.บุญรอดฯ จ�ำกัด ในนามของ “สิงห์” ได้รว่ มกับทางชมรมฯ จัดการแข่งขันกอล์ฟรายการกุศลเพือ่ น�ำเงินรายได้จดั เข้าเก็บเป็นกองงทุนเพือ่ น�ำไปดูแลพัฒนานักกอล์ฟเยาวชนภายในเขตเมืองหัวหินเพือ่ ให้มฝี มี อื ไปสูร่ ะดับชาติและอาชีพ ซึง่ รายการนีก้ ไ็ ด้น�ำเอาเจ้าเมืองประจวบฯ นายวีระ ศรีวฒ ั นตระกูล ผวจ.ประจวบฯ และหน.ส่วนราชการต่างๆ 7 ทีม ปะทะกับทีมนักธุรกิจ – พ่อค้าชาวเมืองหัวหิน ซึง่ น�ำโดย นายชุมพล โชคสุชาติ และนักธุรกิจต่างๆ 7 ทีม โดยทัง่ สองฝ่าย จะจับคูด่ วลวงสวิงกันแบบหลุมต่อหลุม ตัง้ แต่เวลา 09.00 – 17.00 น. โดยจะมีวงดนตรีออเครส ต้าของโรงเรียนหนองพลับวิทยาขับกล่อมเสียงเพลงบริเวณหลุมแรก หลุมที่ 10 ให้กบั นักกอล์ฟ หลังจากนัน้ ในช่วงเย็นก็จะมีการมอบถ้วยรางวัลจากทาง “สิงห์” และเลีย้ งดินเนอร์ ส่วนรายได้ใน การแข่งขันในครัง้ นีค้ าดว่าจ�ำได้ประมาณ 7-8 แสนบาท โดยจะมอบให้กบั ทางชมรมสิงห์พฒ ั นากีฬา กอล์ฟเยาวชนหัวหิน เพือ่ น�ำไปดูแลช่วยเหลือพัฒนาฝีมอื ของเหล่านักกอล์ฟต่อไป ดร.ปราโมทย์ฯ กล่าวว่า รายการกอล์ฟในครัง้ นีจ้ ะต้องถือว่าเป็นประวัตศิ าสตร์ของ วงการกอล์ฟเมืองหัวหิน เนือ่ งจากเป็นครัง้ แรกทีท่ างชมรมฯ และสิงห์ได้น�ำเอาฝ่ายบริการซึง่ เป็น ข้าราชการระดับสูงของจังหวัดได้มาลงสนามดวลวงสวิงกันระหว่างนักธุรกิจพ่อค้าซึง่ ก็ยงั ไม่เคยมีที่ ไหนกจัดมาก่อน เป็นการแข่งขันแบบกระชับมิตรด้วยไมตรีจติ ทีด่ ตี อ่ กันแต่ฝมี อื วงสวิงนัน้ สูแ้ บบเต็ม ที่ ทัง้ นีเ้ นือ่ งจากมีถว้ ยรางวัลใบงามรอให้ส�ำหรับผูท้ คี่ นทีช่ นะในการแข่งขันในรายการนี้ และที่ ส�ำคัญเงินรายได้ในครัง้ นีก้ จ็ ะน�ำเก็บไว้เป็นกองทุนเพือ่ ต่อยอดให้กบั กลุม่ เยาวชนนักกอล์ฟชาวเมือง หัวหินได้มกี ารพัฒนาฝีมอื การแข่งขันแต่ละครัง้ เพือ่ ไปสูก่ ารเป็นนักกอล์ฟระดับชาติและอาชีพต่อ ไปเหมือนๆ กับทีต่ า่ งประเทศเขาท�ำกันจนกลายเกิดเป็นนักกอล์ฟทีม่ ชี อื่ เสียงของโลก อย่างไทเกอร์ วูดส์ นายอ�ำนาจฯ กล่าวว่า หลังจากทีท่ างชมรมฯ เราได้มกี ารเปิดตัวกลุม่ นักกอล์ฟเยาวชน “สิงห์ประหยัด ไลท์ซงิ สตาร์” มาประมาณ 5 ปีนนั้ ก็พบว่าได้สร้างนักกอล์ฟเยาวชนไปสูเ่ ป้าหมายใน ระดับประเทศไทย 2- 3 คน โดยได้ใช้งบประมารจากทาง “สิงห์” และคุณประหยัดฯ มาตลอด เพราะฉะนัน้ แล้วถ้าเรามีทนุ ในส่วนของงานนี้ เข้ามาเสริมมันก็จะท�ำให้ชมรมฯ นัน้ ได้เดินหน้าต่อไปอีกอย่างคล่องตัวและสง่างามของวงการกีฬากอล์ฟ และในงานนี้ ประหยัด มากแสง ซึง่ เป็นลูกหัวหินและนักกอล์ฟชือ่ ดังของประเทศไทย ก็จะสละเวลามาร่วมในงานพร้อมกับ จะมีการสาธิตการเล่นกอล์ฟในรูปแบบและท่าต่างๆ ให้นกั กอล์ฟมืออาชีพและนักกอล์ฟเยาวชนได้เห็นกันแบบจะจะ ซึง่ ก็นบั ว่าจะเป็นการเปิดตัววงการกอล์ฟทีค่ รบองค์ประกอบทางด้านกายภาพและทฤษฎีทสี่ มบูรณ์ทสี่ ดุ ทางด้าน นายจงรักฯ กล่าวเสริมว่า การเปิดกอล์ฟในครัง้ นีท้ างตนเองและคณะครู นักเรียน ก็จะน�ำวงดนตรีมาขับ กล่อมเพือ่ สร้างบรรยากาศทางเสียงเพลงให้กบั นักกอล์ฟได้ฟนั กันซึง่ ก็เชือ่ ว่าจะสร้างอารมณ์รว่ มกันสุนทรียใ์ ห้กบั ทุกๆ คนใน การเล่นจนถึงการมอบถ้วยรางวัลซึง่ ก็นบั ว่าเป็นครัง้ แรกเช่นกันทีจ่ ะได้มาสร้าง “อิมชู นั่ ” ให้กบั นักกีฬากอล์ฟของชาวเมือง หัวหิน

เมืองหัวหินเปิดตัวทีมฟุตบอลอาชีพ

เทศบาลเมืองหัวหินร่วมกับชมรมพัฒนากีฬาหัวหิน สโมสรหัวหินซิตี้ เอฟ.ซี. ร่วมกับเปิดตัวทีมฟุตบอลเยาวชนไทยและ ต่างชาติ หวังผลเป็นทีมอาชีพในอนาคตของจังหวัด “สิงห์” ให้กบั สนับสนุน จากการเปิดเผยของ พ.ต.อ.แตรไชย เรียนเมฆ รอง ผกก.ประจ�ำ สง.ผบ.ตร.แห่งชาติ และ ผจก.ทีมฟุตบอลสโมสรหัวหินซิตี้ เอฟ.ซี. ว่าได้รว่ มกับทางเทศบาลเมืองหัวหิน ชมรมพัฒนา กีฬาหัวหิน เปิดตัวทีมฟุตบอลขึน้ มาแล้ว โดยน�ำเอานักเตะเยาวชนเมืองหัวหินและต่างชาติมาร่วมผสมรวมแล้ว 25 คน ทีผ่ า่ น มานัน้ เมืองหัวหินมีการจัดการแข่งขันกีฬาฟุตบอลมาแล้วหลายแมท หลายถ้วย แต่ไม่ตอ่ เนือ่ งมันจึงท�ำให้ไม่มที มี ฟุตบอลเกิด ไปสูเ่ วทีระดับประเทศได้ การรวมตัวของทีม “สโมสรหัวหินซิต”ี้ ในครัง้ นีน้ นั้ ก็ใช้รปู แบบกฎระเบียบกติกาของทีมแบบฟุตบอล ของโลกอย่างในยุโรป มีคณะกรรมการ โค้ชผูฝ้ กึ สอน ทีท่ �ำการ พร้อมทัง้ อัตราเงินเดือนและเบีย้ เลีย้ งให้กบั นักเตะทุกๆ คน ซึง่ เดือนหนึง่ ค่าใช้จา่ ยประมาณ 1 แสนบาทเศษ ผลของงานทีเ่ ป็นทีป่ ระจักษ์นนั้ ทีมฯ ได้เป็นแชมป์ของจังหวัดประจวบฯ ได้ถว้ ยมา ครองแล้ว ซึง่ ก็จะไปในระดับการแข่งขันเขตเพือ่ เข้าสูร่ ะดับประเทศต่อไป ในส่วนของเด็กๆ และเยาวชนเมืองหัวหินทุก โรงเรียน ทุกสถาบันถ้าอยากจะมีความใฝ่ฝนั ทีจ่ ะเป็นนักฟุตบอลแล้ว ก็ขอให้เดินเข้ามาสมัครเพือ่ ทดมอบและคัดเลือกเอาไว้ เนือ่ งจากทีมฟุตบอลนีน้ มี้ นั เป็นของผูค้ นชาวเมืองหัวหินอย่างแท้จริงเหมือนๆ กับทีใ่ นประเทศอังกฤษเขาท�ำกัน และในอนาคต นัน้ ตนเองในฐานะผจก.ทีมก็จะเสนอให้ทางคณะบริหารเทศบาลเมืองหัวหินได้จดั ท�ำงบประมาณในการแข่งขันฟุตบอลลีกใน ระดับชุมชนขึน้ มารองรับตลอดทัง้ ปี ทัง้ นีม้ นั จะท�ำให้การเล่นฟุตบอลมีทงั้ ปีมใิ ช่วา่ จัดการแข่งขันเพียงแค่ 5-7 วันแล้วก็เลิก “ถ้าท�ำได้ในรูปแบบนีม้ นั ก็จะเป็นการสนับสนุนการเล่นฟุตบอลของท้องถิน่ จังหวัดได้อย่างถูกทาง พร้อมกันนีม้ นั ก็ยงั จะเกิด ดาวรุง่ นักเตะแจ้งเกิดเพือ่ ไปสูใ่ นระดับทีส่ งู ในระดับถ้วย ก. – ข. ต่อไปอีก และทีส่ �ำคัญนัน้ ก็อยากจะให้ผปู้ ระกอบการนักธุรกิจ ชาวเมืองหัวหินได้เข้ามามีสว่ นร่วมในการท�ำทีมโดยให้การสนับสนุนเป็นสปอนเซอร์ มันจะท�ำให้ได้โอกาสทางการกีฬาและสร้าง ชือ่ เสียงให้กบั เมืองหัวหิน โดยไม่มกี ารเมืองแอบแฝง” พ.ต.อ.ฉัตรไชยฯ กล่าว พ.ต.อ.ฉัตรไชยฯ ยังกล่าวอีกว่า ขณะนีเ้ ป็นโอกาสทีด่ ที ที่ าง คุณสันติ ภิรมย์ภกั ดี บ.บุญรอดฯ “สิงห์” และคุณคนิ สน์ โชคสุชาติ เจ้าของก๊วยควงเซ้งหัวหิน ได้เข้ามาเป็นสปอนเวอร์หลักให้ในเบือ้ งต้น พร้อมกับทางเทศบาลเมืองหัวหินเซ็นสัญญา เป็นตัวแทนเพือ่ จัดน�ำเสนอในการเข้าร่วมแข่งขันในแต่ละแมททีจ่ ะมีขนึ้ มานีต้ ลอดทัง้ ปี 55 ในระดับท้องถิน่ จังหวัด และต่างจังหวัด ถ้าทุกอย่างเดินหน้าไปได้ดว้ ยกันทัง้ ทีม การจัดการ สปอนเซอร์ แล้วก็เชือ่ ว่าตนเองในฐานะ ผจก. ทีม และพ.ท.ธนกิจ จันทรัตน์ ประธานสโมสรฯ ก็จะสานฝันน�ำมาทีมให้ไปยืนอยูใ่ นระดับฟุตบอลแนวหน้าในรับประเทศเหมือนๆ กับทีมบุรรี มั ย์ให้จงได้

Golf Training

for Hua Hin Youths T

he Baan Khao Tao Municipal School is organizing a basic golf training course for youths of Hua Hin. The training is from 2 to 10 April and will take place at the Hua Hin Royal Golf Course.

The Director of Baan Khao Tao Municipal School Mr. Samran Mokburut said that this project was initiated due to the fact that local people in Hua Hin specially like golfing and the city was the first city in Thailand to have an official golf course. That is also why many Hua Hin natives have become internationally well-known professional golfers.

With an aim to enable Hua Hin youths to practice golf, the project’s concept focuses on ability to watch the sport, play it well and develop their skill to excellence. The main venue will be at the school and Mr. Samran, a highly qualified golfer and trainer for over 10 years, and other professional golfers will train the young participants.

Although this project provides free training for all participants, to play golf costs a lot and the equipment is rather expensive. At present, they need some equipment, especially clubs, nets, video recorders, computers and speed and distance detecting machines.

Donations are very welcome and can be made directly at the Baan Khao Tao Municipal School(Tel. 086 807 6283).

Interested youths who would like to attend the activity can contact the school directly as well.

By Chamnan

Hua Hin Today

21

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Eu ro pe an Ar ch ite ct ur e&

Welcome Home In Comfort, Luxery and Style

Th ai Li fe st yl e

Contact us.

Email: johnny@regalthailand.com Email: info@regalthailand.com

www.regalthailand.com www.huahintoday.com/properties

Phone: + 66 (0) 87 662 3003 ( Eng. Dk. Sve. Nor.) Phone: + 66 (0) 85 808 1822 ( Eng. Thai.)

Hua Hin Today

22

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Eu ro pe an Ar ch ite ct ur e&

Commen area

Restaurant

Fitness Room

Th ai Li fe st yl e

Reception area

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Contact us for transport to and from the project.

Contact us.

Email: johnny@regalthailand.com Email: info@regalthailand.com

www.regalthailand.com www.huahintoday.com/properties

Phone: + 66 (0) 87 662 3003 ( Eng. Dk. Sve. Nor.) Phone: + 66 (0) 85 808 1822 ( Eng. Thai.)

Hua Hin Today

23

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

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Contact us for transport to and from the project.

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Email: johnny@regalthailand.com Email: info@regalthailand.com

www.regalthailand.com www.huahintoday.com/properties

Phone: + 66 (0) 87 662 3003 ( Eng. Dk. Sve. Nor.) Phone: + 66 (0) 85 808 1822 ( Eng. Thai.)

Hua Hin Today

24

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Regal thailand FULL SERVICE REALESTATE IN HUA HIN

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BALINESE STYLE VILLAS A new project is being bulit in the heart of Hua Hin, The Park .This new development has a wide range of modern and elegant contemporary pool villas to choose from. The Park is just minutes away from beach, restaurants, bars, shopping and Khao Takiab.

Fr

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Email: johnny@regalthailand.com Email: info@regalthailand.com

www.regalthailand.com www.huahintoday.com/properties

Phone: + 66 (0) 87 662 3003 ( Eng. Dk. Sve. Nor.) Phone: + 66 (0) 85 808 1822 ( Eng. Thai.)

Worth Knowing

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

S

Double Taxation

iam Firm Inter Laws was established by Khun Somsak Chopaka an Attorney at Law with 30 years of working experience in domestic and international law, for individuals both foreign and local, domestic entities and inhouse legal counsel for numerous established international companies. Khun Somsak will be giving legal advice about the ever changing situation in regards to Thai Law and keeping readers up to date with the constant changing business and social environment here in Thailand.

For the past few years there have been many retirees moving from their home countries to live here in Thailand, in particular there are many Scandinavian nationals who retire in their home Kingdom before setting out to stay in the land of smiles. Because they choose to stay in Thailand they are required to pay tax here as well more specifically basic income tax, normally a retiree does not have an income but a pension and that is taxed instead.

Normally a pension is always tax deducted by the Scandinavian tax department before it is paid out to the retiree, but the tax department states that any income in Thailand requires you to pay tax locally.

Although to be considered taxable here you must stay in the Kingdom for more than one hundred and eighty-three days. Payment of taxes can be done at the revenue department where you can obtain a certified letter allowing you to receive a refund of all the tax deducted by your home government back in your country, this is the way to avoid double taxation.

Even if the amount you tax that you pay in Thailand is smaller than the amount you would back home it is correct as you should only pay as per the rate of the country you are staying in. If I myself go to stay in your country for the same period of time I would become taxable over there but would no longer be required to pay taxes in Thailand. This is all possible due to the Double Tax Law Act established in 1961 which is an international double taxation agreement between many countries such as the USA, Cyprus, Germany, India and the European Union who helped write and put the act into place. Basically the act states that if you stay in a country for more than one hundred and eighty days then you have to pay the tax for that country and if we pay tax in our home country we will be refunded the total amount. If I go to Norway for example where the tax is a flat twenty five percent rate for everyone I will be paying more tax than I

Advice for Preparation of Business Expenditure Budget for Foreign Business Licensing Applicants

I

would if I stayed here in Thailand, but it is fine as the system works both ways and depends on the tax rates of the chosen country.

In Thailand the tax rates are progressive starting from 10% - 20% - 25% depending on your total income, if you have a small income you will pay little but if you have a big income you will end up paying a lot. The main point of the income does not necessarily mean the total amount of your pension also but only the money you transfer to Thailand on that taxable year. Say if you have a pension of one and a half million baht and transfer in that whole amount, that amount would be the basis for taxable income. The Thai revenue department always calculates the money brought into Thailand to be your taxable income.

Lawyer Comment: Almost all the Scandinavian nationals receive that kind of pension with which they come to live here in Thailand. They always approach us and ask us to prepare the tax form to submit to the government but we always try to find the way for them to pay less tax legally. We can assist everyone with their taxes and try to save the most amount of money by using acts such as this, here in Thailand tax for the year is paid for before the 31st of March in the following year, some countries do it differently and pay on the end of the same year. Whatever way if you have to pay taxes for two different countries you can refund the amount paid from the country you are not staying in. If you have your own case or any questions regarding law in Thailand please feel free to write in to us and we will answer any questions or concerns in this column.

By Somsak Chopaka of Siam Firm Inter Laws English Hotline: 081 808 9175, 089 774 6001, 084 979 4714 Pattaya Office: +66 (0) 38 906 721-3 Bangkok Office: + 66 (0) 2 260 3025 – 7 Hua Hin Office: +66 (0) 32 531 508 somsak@siamfirm.co.th For more information see www.siamfirm.co.th

Munich parking garage

Courtesy of http://urbanlegends.about.com

n submitting an application for a license to operate a foreign business, the applicant must provide details of the business for which a license has been applied. Such documents would, amongst other factors, be considered by the Foreign Business Committee.

In this connection, an expenditure budget for the sums of money to be expended each year in the business operation by the applicant in Thailand in order to acquire assets and as business expenses over a period of three years or the duration of the business operation where less than three years must be prepared. This budget would be used to calculate the minimum capital required for the foreign business licensee. Such minimum capital must be brought into Thailand within the time prescribed in the Ministerial Regulations.

The Office of the Secretariat to the Foreign Business Committee has prepared a form for the declaration of business expenditure budget for a period of three years. Advice for the preparation of the budget as well as an explanation of the definitions of items appearing on such form have also been provided.

The applicant may use these items as guidelines for the preparation of an expenditure budget as is appropriate for the characteristics of the business for which the licensing application has been made.

Form for Declaration of Estimated Business Form for Declaration of Estimated Business Expenditure over 3 Years Expenditure over 3 Years (Unit : Baht) (Unit : Baht) Item

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

1. Initial investment 1.1 Working capital 1.2 Investment in asset (1) Basic assets used in general operations (2) Assets required for a specific business Sub-total 2. Expense 2.1 Costs of the sale of goods and the rendering of service 2.2 Operating expense (1) Staff costs (2) Expenses relating to property, plant and equipment (3) Office supplies and stationer (4) Public utilities (5) Communication (6) Travel, vehicles and fuel cost (7) Maintenance costs (8) Professional fees, legal fees and other fee (9) Various taxes (10) Other expenses (please specify) Sub-total Total costs (1 + 2)

Advice for preparation of expenditure budget.

Advice for preparation of expenditure budget.

This is incredible! Can you imagine how all this operates? How do they lock each car in its cubicle for safety.

WHO CARES. NO ONE IN THEIR RIGHT MIND COULD GET IN THERE. Talk about German efficiency! The two photos below were taken at a new parking garage in Munich. The actual space that the facility

25

occupies is approximately only 20% of a comparable facility with the traditional design that is used primarily in the US. Not only is the German structure less expensive to build, but vehicles are also “retrieved” in less time and without the potential of being damaged by an attendant.

1. There shall be 12 months in a year commencing from the day when license to operate a business in Thailand has been granted.

2. Data on estimated sales of goods or services in each year which are used as bases for the estimation of expenditure must also be declared.

3. The criteria or procedures or assumptions in the calculation of estimates must also be specified, such as in the case of staff salaries, the number of staff, positions and salary scales must be included together with calculation details.

4. In the case where a license application is made for more than 1 business, a separate form must be used for each business together with an explanation of the procedures for allocating the initial investment sums and the costs of operating each type of business. Details of calculations must also be attached.

5. In the case of a supplementary business license application in addition to an existing business, the allocation of initial investment sums and costs involved in the operation of the business in the application must also be included in the expenditure estimates together with an explanation of allocating procedures.

Details of calculations must also be attached.

6. A business may determine an allocation procedure according to the characteristics of the

expenditure and characteristics of the business.

For example, office space rent may be allocated according to the areas used by each business.

Staff salaries may be allocated according to the working hours employed in each business.

Definitions of initial investment and expenses 1. Initial investment 1.1 Working Capital means the assets available for circulation in the normal operations of the business (current assets less current liabilities), such as account receivable, hire purchase account receivable and inventory.

1.2 Investment in assets means expenditure incurred in the procurement of assets for use in the distribution of goods or services or for hire or for use in administration. Such assets must be usable for more than one year, Namely: (1) Basic assets used in general operations such as buildings, premises, furniture and fixtures (air-conditioning, desks, cabinets, chairs), office equipment (computers, photocopying machines, facsimiles) and vehicles.

(2) Assets required for a specific type of business, such as royalties (copyrights and trademarks), patents, concessions, tools for testing communication devices, construction or installation equipment, transport equipment and machinery.

2. Costs 2.1 Costs of the sale of goods and the rendering of services: (1) costs of sales, consisting of the price of goods and costs incurred in the preparation of such goods for sale, such as import costs; (2) costs of the rendering of services, consisting of the costs of supplies used in the provision of services, salaries of experts, wages and hire of other persons as substitute providers.

2.2 Operating expenses (selling and administrative expenses) means general expenses incurred in overall operations, which can be divided into fixed costs and variable costs.

(1) Labour costs, namely: - salaries, wages, overtime pay, bonuses; - benefits paid by the employer, such as rent and personal income tax; - various perquisites, such as social insurance supplements, staff uniforms and supplements to the compensatory fund.

(2) Expenses relating to property plant and equipment: - expenses relating to buildings and premises, such as office rent, cleaning expenses, security expenses and insurance costs; - equipment-related expenses, such as rent of machinery, rent of tools and equipment, office equipment rent and vehicle rent.

(3) Office supplies and stationery, such as pens, paper, printer ink and staplers.

(4) Public utilities, such as electricity costs and water costs.

(5) Communication costs, such as telephone costs, postage and internet charges.

(6) Travel, vehicle and fuel costs, such as costs incurred in work-related travel (including accommodation and stipend) and public transportation.

(7) Maintenance costs, such as costs incurred in the maintenance of buildings, machinery, tools and equipment, office equipment and vehicles to restore working conditions.

(8) Professional fees, legal fees and other fees, such as licensing fees, bank charges, auditor’s fees, bookkeeping fees and other consultancy fees.

(9) Various taxes, such as building tax.

(10) Other expenses. If there are other expenses which have not been included in the items above, the business should state such expenses as actually incurred in the operation of the business, such as advertising and publication expenses, interest payments, commission and entertainment

Classified

26

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Property for Sale Contact : 085- 8081-822 www.huahintoday.com / properties /

SHO-0009

SHO-0013

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Location: Hua Hin Soi 102 Living area: 134 Sq m Plot size: 400 Sq m

Bedrooms: 6 Bathrooms: 7 Location: Palm Hills golf course Living area: 500 Sqm. Plot size: 1,600 Sqm. (one house and one guess house)

SCO-0059

SHO-0039 Luxury pool villa in the golf course 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms

Price: 5,800,000 THB

Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2 Location: Khao Takiab Living area: 90 Sq m.

Price: 6,200,000 THB

Price: 11,000,000 THB

Land area: 1,100 Sqm., Living area: 400 Sqm. Security 24 hours, club house and fully furnished.

Price: 15.9 Million THB

SCO-0024

Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2 Location: Cha Am Grand Condo Tel Living area: 177 Sq m.

Price: 9,000,000 THB

SHO-0081

Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2 Location: Hua Hin Soi 94 Plot size: 692 Sq m

Price: 4,850,000 THB

SCO-0036

Bedrooms: 1 Bathrooms: 1 Location: Khao Takiab Beach Living area: 77 Sq m.

Price: 3,100,000 THB

SHO-0046

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Location: Nongkorn Road Living area: 151 Sqm. Plot size: 480 Sqm.

Price: 4,000,000 THB

Sold SHO-0019

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3 Location: Palm Hill Golf Course Living area: 256 Sq m.

Plot size: 480 Sq m.

Price: 4,500,000 THB

SHO-0071 Luxury Villa 1.5 Km. from golf course

3 bedrooms + 1 maid room, 4 bathrooms, Land area: 600 Sqm. Living area: 342 Sqm., Security 24 hours, club house and fully furnished.

Price: 15 Million THB

SHO-0040 Pool Villa

4 bedrooms 5 bathrooms Land size: 808 sqm.

Living space:425 sqm.24 hours security, golf club, sport club and private swimming pool.

Price: 12.5 Million THB *reduced from 16 Million THB.

SHO-0018

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Location: Hua Hin, Smorprong Living area: 180 Sqm. Plot size: 408 Sqm. Nice landscape garden and teak wood build in

Price: 5,300,000 THB

Property for Rent Contact : 085- 8081-822 www.huahintoday.com / properties /

RHO-0085 House for rent in Hua Hin Soi 114 3 bedrooms,

3 bathrooms, Land area 712 Sqm, Living area 275 Sqm., Price incl: fully furnished, Internet, UBC and Security 24 hours,

Price: 65,000 THB/Month

RCO-0038

Bedrooms: 1 Bathrooms: 1 Living area: 59 Sq m Location: Hua Hin Heart Town

Price: 35,000 THB/Month

RCO-0060

Bedrooms: 1 Bathrooms: 1 Location: Hua Hin Town Center.

Living area: 55 S/qm.

RHO-0059

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3 Location: Hua Hin Town Plot size: 700 sq m.

RCO- 0039

Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2 Living area: 75 Sq m Location: Hua Hin Heart Town

Price: 37,000 THB /Month

Price: 55,000 THB/Month

Price: 55,000 THB/Month

RHO-0012 Specail !

RCO-0001 Takiab Beach Sea View Condo

RHO-0088

Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 3 Location: Hua Hin Soi 112 Living area: 284 Sq m Available for rent Songkran Festival From 7-21 April !

Price: 25,000/week THB

2 bedrooms 1 bathrooms. Floor 18th, Living area : 90sqm. Full furnished European kitchen, Communal swimming pool and Fitness.

Price: 45,000 THB/month

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Location: Hua Hin Soi 102 Living area: 134 Sq m.

Price: 42,000 THB/Month

Contact Property for Sale & Rent : 085-8081-822 natasha@regalthailand.com

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Technical Reviews

David´s Bicycle trip-Collecting for an Orphanage D

27

By David Parkinson

avid Parkinson (Parky) moved to Hua Hin last April having worked for the Australian Television Media Advertising Industry for 23 years. Parky recently returned from a charity bike ride (alone) from Chiang Mai to Kanchannaburi via Sukhothai travelling over 1000km (getting lost) and raising 70,000bt for the local Down Syndrome Orphanage in Hua Hin/Cha AM. Parky had very little bike riding experience prior to his arrival in Hua Hin this was certainly his toughest challenge ‘I had mostly been a jogger and had done a couple of small bike rides down south, so my legs were fine for the long trip however my ‘rear end’ certainly felt each kilometer and I was having to take anti-inflammatory tablets each day. Parky received a lot of assistance from Tour de Thailand a well experienced long distance bike tourist organization based here in Hua Hin. I was motivated to “ride for a charity” by his golfing friends at Springfield Spitters and San Suk Golf Society. ‘ Having been a regular tourist to Hua Hin for the previous 6 years and lived here for the previous 11 months I was really surprised by the generosity shown by my fellow golfers living here permanently, holiday golfers from overseas, my Ex-media colleagues and family.

I have previously helped this same orphanage 3 years ago when I had my 50th birthday party on the beach at the Sofitel which coincided with a Client trip to Hua Hin from Australia, the clients were requested to give cash donations rather than presents. Why Down Syndrome, well my Girlfriend Ay (a Captain in the Thai Army) herself, has a younger sister living with Down syndrome so to me it was a very easy decision.

It was a life experience for me travelling along all those Kilometers along with a limited amount of Thai language skills and absolutely no sense of direction (having got lost on many occasions), the landscape was unbelievable particularly Doi Intharon National Park (Thailand tallest peak) the road to Thoen which is very similar to the NSW (New South Wales, Australia) highlands and of course the ruins of Sukhothai and Kamphaeng Phet.

It was a great opportunity to meet the local Thai people in the small regional villagers and finished each day with a cold beer.The Down syndrome orphanage received a number of gifts including Educational books and toys, cleaning products, medicine and a Special Lunch of Deep Fried Chicken and Chips!

Asked if he would do it again, “well maybe yes, had I not got a charity involved possibly not, but seeing the smiles on the kids faces and witnessing what 70,000 Baht can do for them makes it all worthwhile” Editor: Love it. Another example of: How can we help the less privileged?

The Best 5 Tablets in Review

By GMoss

Here’s a collection of the tablets rated highest by several testers per March 2012.

• •

• • •

Apple iPad Wi-Fi – (16 GB) Black Asus Eee Pad Transformer Prime (32GB) Gray Sony Tablet S ( 32 GB) Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 (16 GB) Barnes & Noble Nook Tablet (16GB)

Apple iPad : The good: Apple’s new iPad includes a stunning new screen, matched by a quad-core graphic processor and the world’s largest app and media store to feed it content.

There’s a proper 5-megapixel rear camera now, with 1080p recording quality. Optional 4G data from AT&T and Verizon afford an uncompromising mobile experience.

The bad: The new iPad is slightly heavier than last year’s model; apps and movies optimized for the screen might take up more space; and ports for HDMI, USB, and SD require adapters.

The bottom line: With a host of improvements-faster graphics, 4G wireless options, a better camera, and a gorgeous high-res screen--the

latest iPad cements its position at the head of the tablet pack.

Asus Eee Pad : The good: The Asus Transformer Prime sports an iPad 2-inspired design that’s even thinner and nearly as light, while also managing to include microSD and Micro-HDMI support. The Prime delivers smooth and clear 1080p video, and the 8-megapixel camera captures detail and color more accurately than any other tablet camera we’ve reviewed. Ice Cream Sandwich makes small but significant improvements to Honeycomb.

The bad: Not every game takes advantage of the quad-core CPU, and frame rates can suffer as a result. When connected to the dock keyboard, the tablet is top-heavy and can easily slide off a lap or table if you’re not careful.

The bottom line: The Asus Transformer Prime is the best full-featured Android tablet yet, with a sexy design, thoughtful features, and an impressive camera.

Sony Tablet S : The good: The Sony Tablet S goes above and beyond the typical Honeycomb tablet experience by offering exclusive apps, ergonomic design, PlayStation certification for mobile gaming, DLNA video and music streaming, and an integrated IR universal remote control.

The bad: On the pricey side, the charging adapter is proprietary and screen brightness isn’t what it could be.

The bottom line: Sony took its time with the Tablet S, and it shows. The industrial design is smart, and the software refinements are both practical and restrained.

Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 : The good: As thin as the iPad 2 and even lighter, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 is the sexiest Honeycomb tablet we’ve seen. Also, it has a 3-megapixel back camera and a 2-megapixel front camera, and powerful dual speakers.

The bad: The lack of ports on the tablet will be a problem for some and the plastic back leaves it feeling less solid than the iPad 2.

The bottom line: Sleek, sexy, and light, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 gets as close to the iPad 2 as any Android tablet before it.

Barnes & Noble Nook Tablet : The good: The Barnes & Noble Nook Tablet is a fullfeatured tablet with a vibrant 7-inch touch screen, built-in Wi-Fi, 16GB of built-in storage, and a microSD expansion slot. In addition to a full slate of books and magazines, it offers more than a thousand apps through its integrated (and growing) Nook Store and is optimized for Netflix and Hulu Plus video playback. The built-in Web browser works well and offers Flash support.

The bad: No access to full Android Market; no Bluetooth, GPS, or camera; no video rental (or purchase) option; sideloaded content beyond 1GB needs to be housed on microSD. The bottom line: With more storage and a growing app store, the Nook Tablet is a worthy--albeit slightly more expensive-competitor to the Kindle Fire.

Hua Hin Today

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Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Black Lotus Resort & Restaurant Laid back on the sloped side of Hua Hin Hills on Soi 112. Amidst a mango orchard, Black Lotus and GreenScape, a luxury development of pool villas with fractional ownership and private financing have created a six star holiday resort and compound.A clubhouse with a half size Olympic pool, Spa and Fitness center surround the Black Lotus restaurant. Interior design is strictly modern in Black and white with, comfortable seating, either inside air-conditioned our outside enjoying a fresh mountain breeze.

Our Chef worked at a five star international resort before joining Black Lotus. Our host , main soul of The Clubhouse and Restaurant , Khun Kae is hospitality trained at the Bangkok Mandarin Oriental and runs the restaurant and guest facilities.

One glance at the menue reveals it´s heritage. Composed to cater for Thai and Foreign residents and visitors , Black Lotus offers a broad spectrum of dishes including Mediterranean creations and Thai seafood delicacies. Surf and Turf is exactly the right expression for their compositions.

Already famous amongst early guests for it´s Roast Beef Sandwich and Black Angus Steaks, Black Lotus claims that it is equal to a “trip to culinary heaven”. Black Angus beef is taken from young steers who are fed 250 days on grains and strictly supervised growth. Once released , the meat is aged with a minimum of 21 days.

At food reviews, it is usually the signature dishes that are reviewed and promoted. So it be. We were welcomed with a toast of a cold sparkling wine originating from a Chardonnay or a Grenache Blanc. As a starter Chef Surachat served creamed tomato soup after which a Pomelo Salad with fresh shrimp was served that was refreshing and tasty. Definitely recommendable entrées.

As a so called second plate (secondo piatto), a Pizza Calzone (stuffed Pizza ), looks a bit like a large Cornish pasty filled with a vegetarian stuffing and ham bits . The entrees and Pizza Calzone were enjoyed with a fresh bottle of Chauvignon Blanc as a perfect match. In earlier days and maybe still today in the country side, Italians used to fill it with left over from the day before, wrapping the pizza to a half moon shape and baking it in the oven. Our Calzone was yummy , moisty and tasty.

As there was more to come we slowed down a bit as a Black Angus Tenderloin was put in front of me waiting to be enjoyed. What a beef piece ! Tender , juicy , tasty , all that Black Angus stands for. The steak ( medium rare 9 was garnished with caramelized onions in a red wine sauce , mashed potatoes with bacon wrapped asparagus and chickpeas on the side. A delicious meal that should be served on it´s own with a bottle of vintage Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz.

Service was flawless, friendly and according to hospitality rules , observant and still remote , never giving the impression of pressure or haste. Last but not least there was a choice of desserts ranging from ice creams , banana splits, swirl buttermilk pancakes and our choice…Tiramisu.

Tiramisu test the Chef as it as a specific , critical dessert . Chef´s Tiramisu was freshly made , beautifully creamy and wholesome. A creamy traditional Tiramisu consists of 3 layers of ladyfingers, soaked in a espresso syrup sometimes also soaked in some brandy, filled with a sweet mascarpone mouse and chocolate shavings. A Muscatel rounded of our gourmet journey at Black Lotus followed by a freshly brewed Espresso. A broad assortment of Sparkling , White , Rosé and Red Wines to crown any choice of menue is served with your meal. At Black Lotus you will never go hungry or thirsty. A five star restaurant with reasonable , yes , very reasonable prices, deserves the merit of a line up alongside other first class restaurants in Hua Hin. You will find Black Lotus on Soi 112 following the signs to the Banyan Golf Club. After about 1 kilometer on the Banyan Golf Club road ( you turned left on it), you will see the GreenScape – Black Lotus entrance on the right. As you enter , you are heading straight for the Clubhouse and Restaurant.

For table booking and directions please call Miss Kae at 086 369 3584 Bon Appetit !

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

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Classified

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

C

Absolute Beachfront Land Prachaub

Beautiful plot 526 sq.wah., chanote, 30 m. beachfront, 40 km south of Prachaub.

Scenic swimming beach, next to resorts, holiday homes,electricity & black road.

Price 9,500,000 Baht

Call 0818208353 or sivapsak@gmail.com

LAND FOR SALE South Hua Hin Situated 25 kms south of Hua Hin, close to the small fishing village of Pak Nam Pran Each Plot (there are 8 plots all together) cover an area starting 1300 sqm2 The land is sold ready for use, with access to electricity (3 phases), cable and with the Title deed (Chanote). The price includes a 2.20 m high wall enclosup the plot and an underground water cistern. The site is 2.5 kms from the beach, 800 m from a 7/ Eleven and an evening food market (5 days a week), and 1.5 km from the heart of the village.

For more information Guy : 08 71 91 62 70 or guyfreboeuf@yahoo.com

Beach front Land for Sale

Insight English Language Schools English and Thai Classes for everyone Educational Visa, Translation & TEFL courses Schools in Hua Hin, Cha-Am & Bangkok 032-470 681 E-mail: david@insightenglish.com www.insightenglish-huahin.com

HUA HIN PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC Sport injury, neck & back pain, muscle aches, joint stiffness, repetitive strain and injury, stroke etc.

Our qualified physiotherapist can help you with PT. equipments, spine mobilization technique, therapeutic exercise and massage. More information

please call 032-512735, 086-6992829 or visit us at Soi 88/1 Petchkasem Rd.

( Next to Hua Hin Market Village Shopping Center )

370 T.W. Superb land at tranquil bay near Kui Buri.

Cross a small road and you on the beach.

Elec. / water / internet.

Only 4.2 MB. Tel: 083 273 6152 Email: rjrawlinson32@hotmail.com

Hua Hin Yoga & Pilates

Open Everyday from 9 am – 3 pm Above Zoom Optic Shop, Petchkasem Road. Entrance via soi 74, Tanawit Hotel,

House for Sale 2bdrm, 2bth, fully furnished.

Located in a quiet area near Palm Hills Golf Course.

300 m. from beach with a community swimming pool.

UBC and internet ready. 24 hour security in the complex.

12,000 Baht / month plus water and electric fees.

This house is also available for sale.

Discount

10%

For more information : contact 085-212-8372

C-510530-12

beside Pimpaka Massage

Tel : Eng : K.Tu 081-453-5978 Thai : K.Ta 087-689-4203 E-Mail : yogini_tu@hotmail.com

Advertise in

Hua Hin Today The Breeze Condo for Rent

Tira Tiraa condo Hua HIn

43 sq.m. 1 br. 1 brs. Opened concept.

Well decorated. Best price! only 2.98 MB. Foreigner freehold! Call 083-710-9944

3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 157 sqm.

Exclusive fully furnished, Seaview 65,000 Baht per month.

Contact 0819154169 ( Eng.), 0834486228 (Thai) E-mail: yayajonerot.k@hotmail.com

call : 032 909 095

Cherry : +66 (0) 86 369 3604 Email: advertising@huahintoday.net

Amp : +66 (0) 86 300 7305

Email : marketing.huahintoday@gmail.com

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

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Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

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Hua Hin Today

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Kids & Health

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

35

Charity Activities for Families and Schools

by GMoss

T

oday’s children often grow up in a world of luxury where food, shelter, and education are a given and often regarded as taken for granted. Getting them involved in charity work at an early age is a great way to make them grateful for what they have and show them how generosity can be contagious.

You can choose to give you money to help build houses and schools for the poor, find cures for diseases, protect endangered animals, donate clothes and educational material such as computers, stationery and educational learning books, or help children learn to read.

The problem isn’t finding a charity to support, but narrowing down your options and choosing the one you find most worthy. Of the almost one million charities registered, many support children in one way or another. If you want to help children, not easy which is charity to choose? It can be a very difficult decision.

In and about Hua Hin, there are several Charity organizations supported by the Rotaries, The Lions and individual personalities who help raise money to help the disadvantaged and the underprivileged unhealthy.

As the funds of families in Hua Hin is limited as well, fundraising dinners and concerts are a popular way of supporting the needy.

The Hyatt regency in Hua Hin has repeatedly created and hosted events to help the poor.

During the big flood, The Hyatt collected more than 500,000 Baht to help re-build and support a primary school in Ayuthaya which was practically completely destroyed by the water.

Other organization also contribute towards some elieve and help paying medical bills for those seriously ill.

Connect3 and The Becc Hua Hin, an international Nursery School in Hua Hin, are pro-active with refugees from the Karen tribe.

They collect all kinds of articles, educational material, basic medicines and food for their project close to the Pala u waterfalls. Emma Neve, a qualified nurse can be found at the camp helping the injured and ill kids and grown ups. Families should start early to teach their children about the underpriviledged, regardless of their cause. Ever not being able not to have a dinner for a couple of weeks, sparely drinking water, no medication for an upset stomach or a cold ? Well, there are thousands who go through this dilemma in Thailand, especially at our borders with Burma and most of them are kids at early ages.

Since July 2011, more than a third of Thailand’s provinces have been hit by the country’s worst flooding in decades. With over 350 people killed, the SOS Childern’s Village Bangpoo, Bangkok is now on high-alert. The Village is home to 120 children who would otherwise have no one.

Although we may not realize it in our daily lives, Thailand is a country in transition, moving from an agricultural to an industrialbased economy.

However, due to the uneven distribution of wealth, environmental degradation and the effects of urbanisation, large disparities in socio-economic welfare remain. Much of the population, particularly in the countryside, lives in extreme poverty.

At This stage, I would like to thank the following persons and Organizations for their financial help and support: Hyatt Regency Resort – Sammy Carolus – Black Lotus – Lars Castelund – The Rotary Club Hua Hin. Emma Neves and the BECC Nursery – The Swiss community – The Dutch Community (Wheel Chair action) The Intercontinental Resort – Khun Suwat – The Tourist Police Hua Hin – The Hua Hin Municipality.

RELATIONSHIPS & LOVE UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

Recently, I was attending a very ‘chic’ evening in Bangkok, some supplier introducing their top of the line products. Although the evening was dull and full of HighSos showing off, what caught my attention most was a conversation between people of opposite sex and different nationalities. They were debating about Thai girls who claim to love someone but don’t really love them, because they don’t know what love actually is. I was amused about the different point of views and how serious they were talking about this subject, whilst a struggling company was trying hard to introduce their labels, what a waste of money.

A few hours later, whilst driving back to the fishing village, I was still thinking about this conversation. Is real and true love unconditional? Doe this means that all other “kinds” of love are not really love. Does this mean that most parents and kids don’t love each other, that most people in relationships don’t love each other, that most people on the planet never experience unconditional love in their entire lives… or does it just look that way?

To love someone unconditionally means that you love the person exactly as they are, exactly as they were before, and exactly as they will be in the future – because people change all the time, so if you love the person, you will love them even if they become something you disagree with.

How many parents can say that about their

kids? How many people can say that about their “lover”? Love is not about you or your pleasure or your amusement. It’s not about what you get out of it or what the other person can give to you. It’s not about having a trophy you can show off with and tell people, this is my girlfriend, boyfriend, spouse, so, daughter, whatever he or she is, You do not “own” that person! (Even if you are one of this brainless and stupid guys sending money to your girlfriend every month.)

It’s not about you feeling ‘proud’ to be with someone who always agrees with everything you say and do and never does anything you disagree with. Unconditional love means that the person can just live their life exactly as they choose and you will always be there for them no matter what. So, how does unconditional love fit in with relationships and marriage and sex and all that stuff the whole world keeps going crazy over? It doesn’t, really. It doesn’t “fit” in anywhere. Relationships are like trying to put love into a box and keep it there, except love is infinitely sized, and the box is… well, there is no box large enough, or there are simply no boxes. And by the way, a normal and conventional marriage is quite possibly the worst possible way to show someone how much you love them.

Unconditional love is more of a spiritual thing.

It’s not bound by physical things, like blood relations and the desire to procreate. It has nothing whatsoever to do with sex. Most people are in relationships because they’re horny and/ or lonely, even if they genuinely think they love the other person. But if the person they “love” suddenly lost their “equipment” for whatever reason, would they still want to be with that person? Would they get jealous if the person they “love” wanted to spend time with other people as well? Relationships based on needs are not unconditional. In order to truly understand love, you must first forget everything you have ever learned about it from society and anyone

By Jack Mairoo, writer at large else (including what I just wrote). You are the only person who can tell you what love is. The only reason I’m writing all this stuff is because people always try to fit “love” in with things like dating, relationships and marriage and all that. You can’t make any sense of it if you keep doing that. You have to get rid of everything you think you know first. I was once told ‘Il n’y a qu’un bonheur dans la vie, c’est d’aimer et d’être aimé.” ( George Sand ) means as much as “There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved “.Both a beautiful and a fearful sentence, don’t you think? What Love is not though, is possessiveness, jealousy, lust, expecting something back, fear and keeping people to yourself or paying monthly alimonies to their “temporary” concubines. Maybe it’s time to redefine your definition of Love!

From outer space with love, Jack Mairoo Gentleman Extraordinaire, Raver, Soldier of Fortune, Raconteur, Writer at large, Idealist, Spendthrift and Romantic Lover.

Specializing in tasting fine wines and good food, Sampling rare whisky and cigars, death defying acts, soft shoe dancing, Gourmet cooking, seduction, scandals and pole dancing. Available on request for farewell parties, formal balls, masquerades, Wedding receptions, club social functions, tea parties, gaming tables and birthday parties.

Picnics on Sundays by special request.

Blood Test Warns of Impending Heart Attack Might signal danger up to 2 weeks before event

By Jack Mairoo, writer at large

A

new blood test may identify people at risk of an imminent heart attack.

Scientists have found that certain cells in the bloodstream can give advance warning of a heart attack, even when other test results are normal.

Doctors are pretty good at telling when a patient is at above-average risk of a heart attack. High blood pressure, family history, and a lack of exercise can all point to high risk - in general, at some point in the future. But those warning signs don’t help predict whether the danger lies 15 years from now, or next week.

Now, researchers in California think they have found a way of telling whether that

heart attack is imminent by determining whether a certain kind of cell called a CEC is circulating in the blood. Lead investigator Paddy Barrett, of the Scripps Translational Science Institute explains that “a CEC is a circulating endothelial cell, which lines the inside of a patient’s artery.

And when you have a heart attack, this artery cracks, releases this cell, and with a simple blood test we can identify this particular cell type.”The blood test found that heart attack patients had significantly more CECs in their blood - four times more, on average.

Although this study focused on heart

attack patients, the scientists say the endothelial cells can enter the bloodstream before a full-blown heart attack, typically one to two weeks earlier.”And we believe, when we refine this test, that we will be able to predict, in the future, who was about to have a heart attack or on the cusp of having a heart attack,” Barrett said.

Using automated equipment to analyze the blood for the presence of CECs, the Scripps researchers say the process could potentially be done at the patient’s bedside, and might take only 20 or 30 minutes. The test could become available in a year or two.

36

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Thai Legal Advice

37

Criminal Law in Thailand Part X

Arrest-How Long Can They Hold You?

I

f you’re arrested, how long can you be held? This is not a question of how long you can be put in jail if you’re convicted. What we’re talking about here is how long the police can hold you at the time of arrest. This is prior to the formal phase of the process where your guilt or innocence is decided and you are sentenced, if adjudged guilty.

After arrest, and once formal charges have been read to you (called the arraignment) in most cases you have to be released to await further proceedings such as the trial.

If you have been arrested for a petty offense, as defined in Title 3 of the Thai Criminal Code, you can only be held for the time reasonably required to record your identity, your address and to obtain a statement from you about the crime.

Generally, you cannot be held in connection with a petty offense more than forty-eight hours. Petty offenses are those for which the maximum imprisonment is one month and/or a maximum fine of one thousand baht. Examples of petty offenses are fighting and public intoxication.

The police may keep a suspect longer than just the time to identify them and get a statement under two circumstances.

By James Finch and Nilobon Tangprasit

The first circumstance is that the suspect was arrested via an arrest warrant and the warrant, which must be signed by a judge, specified that the arrestee had to be kept until he or she should be brought before a judge.

The second circumstance under which the police can keep a suspect for an extended period is if a court has issued a detention warrant as a result of a request filed by the police.

A court may issue such a warrant after requesting testimony from the accused, who may, of course, already be in custody.

The police may be asked to give testimony or other evidence to the judge, as well. The amount of time the accused can be held depends on the severity of the penalty of the crime.

For example: • For offenses that have a maximum penalty of no more than six months in jail—seven days.

• For offences that have a maximum penalty of more than ten years in jail—forty eight days.

Depending on the offense, the maximum number of days mentioned above is a total of lesser extensions that must be requested by the authorities.

In cases of serious offenses where the accused may be in jail after arrest for up to forty-eight days, the Public Prosecutor can get the accused kept in jail longer by filing a petition with a court. A court is likely to grant such a petition in cases where the accused is violent or likely to flee.

While you are in custody the police must explain to you that you can either make a statement or not, but if you do what you say can later be used in evidence against you. If and when the police take your statement, you have to be allowed to give your side of the story and have it written into the record prepared by the police. This again points up the necessities that have a representative with you who speaks Thai, because everything will be written in Thai.

Incidentally, if you are giving a statement through an interpreter, the interpreter must give an affirmation swearing to translate truthfully. Failure by the interpreter to do so may

affect the admissibility of the statement in court.

Remember, all of the above relates to what the police can do prior to trial. We will talk about formal accusation, trial and conviction later.

James Finch of Chavalit Finch & Partners finch@ chavalitfinchlaw.com and Nilobon Tangprasit of Siam City Law Offices Limited nilobon@siamcitylaw.com Researcher: Chanakarn Boonyasith - For more information see www.chavalitfinchlaw.com

38

Wine & Dine

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Hagi-The Japanese Restaurant in Town

L

The Hua Hin Grand Centara hosts a true Japanese Restaurant with Authentic Dishes and Delicacies

ocated on one of Hua Hin’s liveliest street corners, it gives you enjoyable views of the bustling Hua Hin nightlife. The Hagi blends traditional and modern Japanese cuisine where you can also experience the art of The TeppanYaki master, live cooking stations and wide selection of Sushi & Sashimi. Need to mention the Thursday night Japanese buffet which is sumptuous and displays practically all that you could think of in terms of Japanese food at Baht 1,999, all you can eat and daily happy hours between 5 and 7pm. Buy one, get two.

My charming host, Khun Joy of Centara Grand Beach Resort had ordered a few typical and delicious Japanese dishes for our food review.

Not being the greatest admirer of Japanese food, I did like the Sushi and stew like beef which Chef brought us. One of the Sushi was garnished with kaviar and another with smoked salmon. Noblesse Oblige!

Definitely there are a lot of variations of Japanese food of which we probably get to see a limited selection in our part of the world. Japanese gourmets are Famous for their popular Tipanyakis with fresh Kobe or Wagyu Beef cooked and served before your very eyes. Surely the Japanese present their food in a high fashionable way and Hagi does as well. According to our Chef, recipes come from Bangkok where a Japanese Master Chef composes the menue for the restaurants.

Suggestions from local Chefs are very much welcomed and form a part of fusion menues.

A composition of fresh seafood with shrimp, scallops and salmon crowned the creativity of Hagi.

All this served with warm Sake ( Rice wine).

We chose not to overdo in food intake as what we had justified the remark that it was first class! I will certainly be back for a Tipanyaki and Japanese Buffet on a Thursday night! My For those of us wanting to consult Google compliments to the Chef and restaurant staff Earth: DD Latitude & Longitude: 12.567925840922546, 99.96156334877014 for their flawless and always correct service.

DMS Latitude & Longitude: For more info or Reservations: Phone: +66 (0) +12° 34’ 4.53”, +99° 57’ 41.63”.

3251 2021-38 Fax: +66 (0) 3251 1014 -Email: Web: www.centarahotelsresorts.com chbr@chr.co.th

Green Gallery Hua Hin Railroad Station the cozy colonial

Rail Road Café

beach villas Hua Hin

H

ua Hin’s popularity began to increase in the 1920’s as the railway line from Bangkok was constructed and King Rama VI built Klai Kangwon Palace as a summer retreat.

Hua Hin’s station is one of the oldest in Thailand and its main feature is The Royal Waiting Room that used to welcome King and his court when they were visiting the town.

Originally, it was situated at Sanamchan Palace in Nakom Pathom and was known as Plub Pla Sanamchan. Eventually, the room was transported to Hua Hin. It is designed in the same style as Maruekkhathayawan Palace and is an attraction not to be missed if you are staying in Hua Hin. The Railroad station has a cafeteria with the whole café menue we are used to from other multi national chains. The serviced is friendly and you can sit comfortably watching the trains go by, catching or missing your own.

The train station is located at the top (west end) of Damnoern Kasem Road.

W

ith historically and architecture of Thai style house, this house was the vacation house of Princess Raohinavadi Dissakul, the Daughter of Prince Damarong Rajanubhab and Saeng Satarat as 12 rooms with deferent style as you follow up an advice : Chandelier room, Green room, Silhouette room,Lighthouse suit, Retronist room, Urbana room, Coco room,Seathru room, Mona lisa, Eritico room,Blue & White suit, Woody room. The Gallery Zone is on the second floor within a nice location of sea view, The One-storey Courtyard house zone to whom that in love with poolside, The Beach side zones are the most popular as the condition of private Moon Deck & Balcony for whom to be in love with Stars are so distant that appear as points of light in the night sky overlooking on the beach.

Promotions: 10% Discount any room any

day (except holiday), 10 % Discount at Living Room Bistro & Wine bar, The promotion expired on December 30, 2012, Bakery promotion 50 % discount every Wednesday.

From more information please feel free to contact Green Gallery Hua Hin 3/1 Damrongrach Rd., Soi 51, Hua Hin,PrachuabKirihkhan, Thailand 77110

Events Calendar

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

39

Hua Hin Events & Promotions - APRIL 2012

Thailand Events : Songkran - Water festival April 13 _ 15 Chakri Memorial Day – April 6 -Founding of the present Thai Dynasty 1782 – King Rama I

Hotel Promotions and Events

Unless indicated differently, ALL prices are to be understood Per Person - NET + VAT + Service Charge - ++ etc.

Children 1 – 6 years are usually free. Children from 6 – 11 are usually charged less -50% or more. Check with Staff.

Banyan Resort & Golf Club

Banyan Resort Hua Hin & Golf Club : Life Jazz at

the Lemongrass Restaurant April 14 with international professional Jazz musicians. Fondue Bourguignon and a la Carte. Call : 032-616200 for reservations.

Banyan Golf Club – great Golf events with plenty of fun, food and Beer Callaway Banyan Masters 2012 - Saturday April 7th from 12.30 - - Prize-giving BBQ with a free flow of beer – Golf – GPS Card – Caddy – BBQ THB 3,650 / Person Banyan Shootout – Tuesday April 10th and 30th . Tee Off at 12 pm THB 3,650 / Person – Golf, Caffy ; GPS Card, BBQ Dinner and Free flow of Beer. THB 1,500 / Person.

Golf & BBQ Dinner – Sunday April 15. - Tee off at 12:30 pm - Includes BBQ at Mulligan´s Pub. - THB 3,600/Person .

BBQ only THB 1,500.

Golf & Wine Dinner – Sunday April 22nd. - Tee off at 12:30 – 5 course wine dinner – at The Terrace Restaurant. THB 3,950/ Person BBQ only THB 2,100. – For more detailed information, call 032 616 200 to ensure your participation.

Hilton Resort & Spa

McFarland House - Sunday Brunch 11.30am – 15.00pm.

Baht 1,500 net per person inclusive of a bottle of sparkling wine per two persons. child 6 – 12 Baht 650. – All You Can eat Tapas - Fridays and Saturdays from, 6:00pm to 10:30pm. Baht 700 net per person. - Afternoon Tea - Daily from 2:00pm to 6:00pm - THB 300 net per person.

All you can Eat Tapas – Wednesdays 6:30 – 10:30 pm – THB 700/person.

Figs Restaurant – Pasta and Pizza. Authentic home-made pasta dishes and pizzas & favourite Italian dishes - Baht 250 every Tuesday and Saturday from 6:30pm to 10:30pm.

Talay Thai Restaurant - Classic Thai Buffet. Every Monday from 6:30pm to 10:30pm, Baht 850 net per person for adults and Baht 425 net for children aged 6-12 with traditional Thai dances. - Hua Hin Fisherman´s night – every Friday evening between 6.30pm and 10.30pm with “Catch of the Day” and traditional Thai dances. At Baht 1,300 net per person for adults and Baht 600 net for children aged 6-12.

The Pool Lawn - Seafood BBQ buffet - Western and Thai specialties – Live Band - every Thursday 7:00pm to 10:30pm .

Baht 1,200 net for adults and Baht 600 net for children aged 6-12. For reservations and further information, please contact Hyatt Regency Hua Hin on Hotline +66 2254 6200 or +66 3252 1234

Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa

White Lotus Restaurant - All-You-Can-Eat Dim Sum

every Saturday, Sunday and on Public Holidays for THB 449 nett per person. Full Moon Diner April 6- 5 course set menue – THB 899 / Person.

The Chay Had Restaurant – Beach Burger with Crumbed Pork and French Fries at Baht 350.

Theme Dinners: Wednesday – 5 course Wine Dinner with a glass of wine at THB 1,550 nett per person.

Aqua Pool Bar & Sunset Beach Bar brings you special daily Sunset Hours from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm with all local beers and classic cocktails for THB 120 nett The Market : Songkran Buffet – Thai culinary journey with live cultural show at THB 1.499.

Monday & Tuesday - Authentic Thai Terrace Dinner a la carte - Wednesday & Friday - All-you-can-eat pizza, pasta and salad buffet. THB 599 nett per adult. Thursday - Taste of Siam Thai Buffet with a live Thai musician THB 599 nett .

Saturdays - International Barbeque buffet with live band THB 999.

Other Hilton Venues / Outlets

The Wine Cellar : Lots of wines to satisfy your cravings. World News Coffee : Blue Dream for THB 150 nett Milestones Jazz Bar Lounge : Cocktail with Live Music - Hua Hin Brewery : Home brewed beer and Food & live Music Beerhouse: with weekend coyote madness. - SOS Tugboat Bar – Live Sports on a big screen- Soccer- F1 HOME BREWED BEER COMBOS : Dancing Monkey Lager – Elephant Tusk Dark Lager – Sabai Sabai Wheat Ale. For reservations : 032 358 999 – www.hilton.com

CENTARA GRAND RESORT & VILLAS

Black Lotus Restaurant

Palm Restaurant – Moonlight Dinner on the Beach – BBQ Buffet – Live Music – THB 1,400 / Person Salathai – Flavours of old Siam – Daily 1 am – 22.30 pm Wednesdays 7 – 10:30pm Thai Buffet with live show THB 999/Person The Museum – Coffee & tea corner – Fridays & Sundays 3 – 6 pm High Tea Buffet THB 488/Person - Saturday 3-6pm Chocolate High Tea Buffet THB 690/Person.

Hagi Japanese Restaurant - traditional & modern Japanese cuisine – Teppanyaki - Sushi & Sashimi - open 17 – 22:30 pm For more Information call : 032 512 021 or Email : fboffice@chr.co.th

Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa

Salas Restaurant - Italian appetizer and dessert buffet

with your choice of five main courses for Baht 1,400 net per adult and Baht 700 net per child starting from 6:00 pm. – 11:00 pm.

Inazia Restaurant - Thai, Indian and Japanese set menus at price starting from Baht 1,800 net for two persons from 6:00 pm. – 11:00 pm. (All prices are inclusive of 10% service charge and 7% tax.) contact : Tel: 66 (0)32 708 080 Fax: 66 (0)32 708 028 or E-mail: reservations.huahin@sheraton.com,

Putahracsa Resort

The Oceanside Beach Club Bar & Restaurant –

Happy Hours: Make your way down to the trendiest chill out venue in the heart of Hua Hin, where great music and inventive beverage creations await. Sit back, relax and sip your favorite cocktail while enjoying the cool sea breeze, an ideal end to a perfect day. 50% discount on all drinks everyday from 5.30pm-7.00pm Ob Oon Boulagerie et Patisserie French bakery invites you for a delightful treat of traditional French breads, Belgium pastries and cakes. Take the weight off your feet by sitting in our truly unique coffee lounge and try our range of deluxe teas & coffees or our home made crusty baguette sandwiches.Open Daily: 9.00am – 6.00pm Special discount 10% and receive loyalty card during this April 12.

Cool Breeze

Café, Bar& Restaurant

Tapas Tapas Tapas & Great Spanish and Continental dishes Special wine promotion with a different wine at a great price.

The Happy Hour Promotion is always available from 11am until 7pm 7 days a week. Tapas Buy 3 Pay 2, Sangria Buy 1 Get 1 Free and house wine at 99 baht a glass. We also have El Prado Spanish wine in Red, White and Rose at 880 baht per bottle.

Sunday Wine Night - House Wine 99 baht a glass all day and night, Monday Tapas Night - Buy 3 pay 2 all day and night, Tuesday Sangria Night - Buy 1 get 1 Free all day and night, Wednesday Cocktail Night - Selected Cocktails 100 baht all night.

Cool breeze Promotion : Display of art from The Family Tree and Ran Pee Ud with all artwork for sale. We also have a new and exciting cocktail range from 140 baht. Our set lunches are 260 baht until 4pm daily. Naresdamri Road – going towards the pier on your left. Contact @ Tel. 032 531 062,

Ye Olde Buffalo Tavern Large outside Terrace and inside seating – Great Ambience Daily British Breakfast – Continental Menue – Steaks – Roasts, best pork spare ribs in town. Bangkok Post awarded.

Everyday great dishes, Draught Beers and Ales. Sunday roasts.

Our tip for a great continental meal in a great Ambience.

Corner Tomsin and Naresdamri road facing Hua Hin Port Contact : 086 603 5335. www.buffalobillshuahin.com

Black Angus Steaks – Beef Sandwiches – Salads – Thai and Continental dishes – Mediterranean Delicacies – Rich Desserts – International Wines – Location : Soi 112 at the GreenScape and Black Lotus Development . Call : 080899 252 342 for directions and reservations

Sara - Jane Black Angus Steaks – Beef Sandwiches – Salads – Thai and Continental dishes – Mediterranean Delicacies – Rich Desserts – International Wines – Location : Soi 112 at the GreenScape and Black Lotus Development . Call : 080899 252 342 for directions and reservations

SPA Promotions The Barai – Exclusive Destination Spa

Celebrate Summer and Songkran with ancient Therapies and Water Treatments to cool down..

Songkran Spa Experience – Jasmine Body Polish – Hydro Vichy Shower, a choice of Thai Blend Aroma Massage or Traditional Thai Massage – 120 minutes at THB 4,500/ Person or Couple THB 7,900 ++.

Water Element Ritual – Water Element Bath – Aromatherapy Massage – Relaxing Aromatherapy Facial – 3 hours and 15 minutes.

THB 5,500 /Person or Couple THB 9,900 ++ Spa Series Special – Buy Three Massages during your stay and receive one additional free.

Promotions available throughout April this year. For reservations and further information, please contact THE BARAI on Hotline Tel: +66 2254 6200 or +66 3251 1234, or e-mail thebarai.hrhuahin@hyatt.com, www.thebarai.com

SHERATON - Aspadeva Spa “Touch of Aspadeva” New Spa Promotion

Thai Touch: discover the ancient art of aromatherapy and experience the healing powers of essential oils and help to balance Mind, body and soul - 15 min. Thai Herbal Steam - 45 min Thai Herbal Scrub - 60 min. Traditional Thai Massage or Secret Thai Facial. Mandarin Orange Touch: 15 min. Mandarin Orange Steam - 45 min. Mandarin Salt Body Glow Scrub - 60 min. Swedish Massage with Orange oil.

Contact Aspadeva Spa at Tel: 66 (0)32 708 235 E-mail: spa. huahin@sheraton.com, Resort Reservation Tel: 66 (0)32 708 080. Best rates are always available for online reservations at www.sheraton.com/huahin

PUTAHRACSA SPA

Day Spa Refresing – Tropical Fruit Scrub + Coconut Oil

Massage + Cucumber Honey. Package 2 Hours / THB 2,400.

Book now at: 032 531 470 Ext. 2 . 22/65 Nahbkaehard Rd. Hua Hin, 77110, Thailand

Rest Detail Spa

: Surrender to your senses in this heavenly sanctuary. At Restfully Yours, select from a range of especially created treatments to relax and pamper the body, mind and soul, leaving you refreshed, relaxed and rejuvenated. One treatment simply won’t be enough! Phone: +66 (0) 32 547 733 - Facsimile: +66 (0) 32 547 722 E-mail: rest@restdetailhotel.com . We are in Soi 19 on the shore road at the very end. Call us for directions.

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Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

More

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

41

Discovered: A great Curry Noodle restaurant

A

bit off ways but not to far away, on the klong after the Golf driving range carry on until the traffic light. About 1 km afterwards you see a pink bridge on the left , cross it , turn right along the other Klong / Canal side, about 50 meters, a left turn and on the right hand side you will find Krua Araya. A wide selection of curries on rice noodles and yellow noodles other goodies are served at Thai local prices. The curry variety is tremendous and reaches geographically from the North to the South of Thailand.

An open salad and raw vegetables buffet serve the health gurus under us. A sweet buffet with Thai specials rounds off the curry experience. A range of freshly brewed cold herbal teas, starting with lemon grass and chrysanthemum tea refresh the untrained farang mouth when some of the spicy curries hit the taste glands.

I had a bottle of green Fanta for emergency sugar relief. The seating is under a straw roof in a large sala. I found this cute little restaurant worthwhile mentioning and promoting as it is the only of it´s kind in Hua Hin. Krua Araya is open for brunch lunch and dinner. For directions in Thai and English in case you get lost, call 0815734207.

Krua Araya

Euro steady in Asia on expectations of US easing

T

he euro was firm against the dollar in Asian trade on Tuesday amid expectations that the United States will maintain its monetary easing policy to boost its plodding economy. The euro eased slightly in Tokyo afternoon trade but was relatively firm at $1.3350, compared with $1.3356 late Monday in New York, where the European unit climbed to its highest level since the start of March on dovish comments by Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke.

The dollar was at 82.87 yen, unchanged from New York.

The euro traded at 110.62 yen against 110.68 yen in New York.”The dollar is bearish against the euro after Bernanke’s comments,” a senior trader at a major Japanese trust bank told Dow Jones Newswires. In a speech on Monday, Bernanke cautioned that the US labour market remained weak and questioned whether a recent dip in the unemployment rate was sustainable. He signalled that the Fed was likely to keep its stimulus policies in place. The euro was also buoyed after Germany Chancellor Angela Merkel suggested that Germany may allow a boost in the eurozone’s war chest to contain its bubbling debt crisis, ahead of European finance minister talks on the issue. In an apparent policy shift amid fierce resistance at home, Merkel said Berlin was now open to combining 500 billion euros ($668 billion) from a permanent rescue fund that comes into effect in July with about 200 billion euros

already promised to some of the region’s debt-ridden nations. The United States, the International Monetary Fund and the European Central Bank have been nudging Germany to take a more aggressive approach to the firewall, saying a bigger fund would help convince investors that Europe has a viable strategy for dealing with its public debt woes. The market was “encouraged” by Merkel’s support, National Australia Bank said.”This has been discussed for months now, with some German hesitation. The support is a positive

sign, but the key will be when it is actually approved,” the bank said in a note .European Union finance ministers meet in Copenhagen on Friday to discuss the combined package.

The dollar was mixed against other Asian currencies. It fell to S$1.2576 from S$1.2598 on Monday, to 30.70 Thai baht from 30.72 baht, to 1,135.00 South Korean won from 1,138.40 won and to NT$29.57 from NT$29.58.

The greenback edged up to 42.94 Philippine pesos from 42.92 pesos while staying flat at 9,190.00 Indonesian rupiah.

Power of Love Church

Welcome to the Power of Love Family

Advertise in

Please join us every Sunday Morning at 10:00 am at the Best Werstern Serenity Resort in Hua Hin, just outside Hua Hin going North, next to the Ananatara Resort.

Hua Hin Today

Come and Celebrate wih us. Let´s all sing together, love each other, forget our worries, forgive each other, come and enjoy great music and wonderfull fellowship with a free lunch after the Service.

Cherry : +66 (0) 86 369 3604

A new Charismatic Holy Spirit driven Love filled Church. We are a new church with a new style!

Email: advertising@huahintoday.net

For more directions contact : Khun Ake 0873516156 – Andrew 080 999 3603 Johanna 084 630 9925 : Email polchuahin@hotmail.com

Email : marketing.huahintoday@gmail.com

Let´s have a New Life and New Love

call : 032 909 095

Amp : +66 (0) 86 300 7305

Power of Love Church – Every Sunday

The Hua Hin Today Team

Responsible for Hua Hin Today / Cha-Am Today / Property & Golf Today & Food Lovers

Pol.Gen Maj Noi Wannapaiboon Editor

Mr.Gerard Mosselman (Jerry) Consulting Editor

Ms.Atchareeya Lindstrand (Ning) Assistant to the Editor

Ms.Sunisa Kheunkum (Cherry) Marketting Coordinator

Mr.Chamaipron Chaithep (Amp) Marketting Coordinator

Mr.Grit Promprasert (Nat) Graphic Designer

Spa review

42

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin

By A. Bress

T

he Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas is not only an image of local history and pride, but it is also an important part of today’s vibrant and prestigious tourism in Hua Hin. After changing ownership in late 2011, the Centara Grand Beach Resort &Villas, formerly the Sofitel Resort, is eager to introduce the new innovations that will exemplify the resort’s new name along side its familiar face.

While the Centara Grand Resort, 1 Damnernkasem Road, has made several changes to the guest experience, longtime customers can breathe easy with reassurance that the beloved Sofitel staff will be a part of the future of the resort.

According to the resort’s Cenvaree Spa Manager Boulyhadar “Kathy” Narkthawol, there have been many advertising campaigns marketing the new brand name, but the change is welcome among the staff because most of the dedicated employees are still a part of the new company.

“We have a new name, but the same staff. There are people who have worked here for longer than 20 years, and they kept the same staff,” Narkthawol said.

One of the things that have remained the same is the undeniable grandeur and beauty of the massive resort complex. The Centara Grand has kept the same white Colonial-style buildings trimmed in rusty orange, and the resort’s many open-air lobbies are still furnished in elaborately carved wooden furniture where guests can relax and forget able their stresses as the enormous wooden ceiling fans which make the heat of the afternoon feel like a romantic experience.

Like the rest of the resort, innovations have also spread to the Centara Grand Beach Resort Spa, Cenvaree Spa, which Narkthawol said she is proud to be a part of.

The Cenvaree Spa, open from 09:00 to 21:00, is located in a separate building just off the main lobby and behind the outdoor swimming pool.

The Cenvaree Spa décor, like the entire feel of the resort, is a marriage of tradition and modern. The spa has the general feel of the decades past but offers simple, crisp displays of modern spas.

Narkthawol said the actual structure and treatments of the Cenvaree Spa have not changed greatly, except that she is able to offer many new treatments for guests.

Narkthawol said once a year, all Cenvaree Spa employees from the 18 different spas in Thailand gather for an innovation and training workshop to learn new treatment and procedures.

Among the new treatments is Kati Basti, Intensive Back Relief Treatment, which is designed to relieve back tension. The Kati Basti treatment comes from Indian massage techniques and combines a back massage with Ayurvedic therapy with an herbal Indian oil mix.

Narkthawol said, “There are quite a lot of herbal benefits in the Kati Basti treatment. It uses the benefit of heat and steam with aromatic oils to be very comforting and relief.”

The introductory rate for the Kati Basti treatment is 2,200 THB for 75 minutes.

Narkthawol said the entire spa menu is based around the spa’s three pillars of service; body, energy and soul. Also new to the spa menu is the monthly couples packages, including the salt

relief treatment, samunprai herbal treatment, and the signature massage. The package costs 2,900 THB for 2.5 hours.

When I arrive at the Centara Grand Beach Resort, guests are having afternoon tea, the huge wooden fans are spinning high above head and the only indication that time has passed is the beading of condensation that slowly drips from the glasses of guests’ cold drinks.

I make my way past the euphoric-faced customers happily entertained by newspapers and soft conversation with friends, through the enchanted gardens, and along the lazy swimming pool to the Cenvaree Spa. I’m greeted with the Cenvaree motto, “In Love with Life,” and a beautiful glass of iced butterfly tea. After choosing the Balinese Oil Massage treatment with muscle tension relief aromatherapy oil, I am ushered into the private treatment room to begin my procedure.

The Balinese Oil Massage is not for the soft massage fans, it is a thorough and complete deep tissue treatment, which begins with

squeezing and lifting the muscle away from the body in a grab and pinch movement. This is repeated over the entire body, after which the warm oil is lathered onto the skin, filing the room with an orange peel, earthy, spice smell.

The masseuse then works her thumbs up and down each muscle sending tingling twinges that relax and heal the pain. The entire massage is based around the traditional healing powers of massage. The grand finale of the massage was a deep, rough head massage that sent chills down my spin in the best relaxing way.

Narkthawol said there will be more changes in the near future, but for now, the Cenvaree Spa will continue to do what it knows best, quality holistic relaxation treatments.

The change in ownership was a slow process that ensured the creative and professional innovations remained grounded in cultural traditions. The Centara Grand Beach Resort has embraced these changes and improvements with grace and patience, promising that the best is yet to come.

Restfully Yours at the Rest Detail Resort in Hua Hin Q

uote : “Overlooking the Gulf of Siam, the Rest Detail Hotel offers guests a perfect respite from the outside world.

In keeping with its name and playful logo of the “three wise monkeys”, every detail is anticipated to ensure you truly surrender to the charms of this tropical seaside resort, encompassing body, mind and soul. Gracious, friendly Thai hospitality and service, unique modern design with chic colourful touches, together with sumptuous cuisine will create special memories and a desire to return again and again”.

The Spa , called Restfully Yours is carefully detailed with attractive accommodation treatment rooms.

The atmosphere is a bit Thai cultural with wooden floors, limestone and mosaic used as building material.

The reception is friendly and professional, always wanting to know if you have any allergies, hypertension or other health issues. This is very important as herbal treatments may influence your well being.

The Spa manager, Khun Tikki has an impressive history of Spa experience reaching all the way into the Caribbean Island of Anguilla ! She is extremely professional in her approach and diagnostics. My standard complaint is my neck and shoulders, after which a special treatment is recommended. My Therapist Khun Gee, was instructed to especially pay attention to the ailing areas. As usual I had a hard time not falling asleep and maybe I did.

A skin scrub preceded the body massage which was blended with precious oils.

Did I mention I had to wear this Ballet brief again. Just can´t get used to it.

However and moreover, albeit, it was again a great experience feeling a lot fresher as I two hours ago. The programme

By GMoss

will be extended to an Ocean Experience in which rich oils , herbs and ocean salt will play a mayor role. Tikki will inform me as soon as it is available I will review it.

Special thanks to my therapist Khun Gee and Khun Tikki. Rest Detail Spa is among the best in Hua Hin. Looking forward to my next visit.

Contact Rest Detail for more Spa information : Phone: +66 (0) 32 547 733 Fax +66 (0) 32 547 722 E-mail: rest@restdetailhotel.com - Web. www. restdetailhotel.com

Sow Sow Sow and Khun Rabbit O pposite Heaven´s Kitchen on Thomsin Rd. you will spot Sow Sow Sow massage, a Wat affiliated massage parlour, spik and span , air conditioned with a very knowledgeable therapist Khun Rabbit. As I descended from Heaven´s kitchen lunch, my neck and had bothered me for some time and my back did not agree with the rest of my body. Khun Rabbit offered to apply her healing massage. She asked me carefully to describe my ailment and showed me on a body map which muscles were concerned. We agreed to a neck and back massage after which I got to wear some ancient Thai pant that you tie in front of you. After examining my back she soon found the corpus delicti muscles and started her therapy. Khun Rabbit was educated at a Wat where monks teach alternative medicine and massage. Apart from the gentle torture, I felt increasing relieve in my limited motions. After about 60 minutes of intensive tenderizing my back and neck , I was set back 300 Baht and recovery of my left right motions in full ! Great job by Miss Rabbit. I will be back !

By GMoss

Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

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Hua Hin Today

Volume 9 issue 6 April 2012

Cha Am Today

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Volume 3 issue 8 April 2012

Volume 3 Issue 8 April 2012

By Mallila

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Enjoy Unique Shopping and Fun at Santorini Park Cha-Am

he Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phetchaburi Office and other involved organizations are now preparing for the 26th Khao Wang Annual Festival between 28 March and 6 April 2012.

According to the Phetchaburi Governor Mr. Winai Buapradit, this event is one of the biggest and most important yearly festivities of Phetchaburi. This year, its concept is to celebrate the 84th birthday of His Majesty the King whilst honouring the previous monarchs of Chakri Dynasty, in particular King Rama IV, King Chulalongkorn and King Mongkut.

A provincial event, the Khao Wang Annual Festival aims to cherish and promote local tradition and culture as well as boost tourism in and around Phetchaburi.

Highlights of the event include decoration and display of over 1 million neon lights throughout Khao Wang and fireworks in the evening. Visitors will also enjoy beautiful and blossoming Frangipani trees planted around

By Mallila

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Khao Wang and admire the panoramic scenery on top of the hill. The opening ceremony features colorful parades to honor His Majesty made by all districts of Phetchaburi.

The festival has many fun activities, such as cultural performances, an exhibit about local craftsmanship in Phetchaburi and His Majesty the King, a Golf tournament, a Red-Cross fair, a Beauty Pageant, a contest of Cuckoo Doves, selling of local food and sweets and products of governmental offices in Phetchaburi. There will also be a photo contest on 2 themes: “Phetchaburi Lifestyle” and “Phetchaburi Craftsmanship”, both of which any interested people can take part in.

For more information, please contact the information center of Phetchaburi Provincial Office at tel. 032 428 047, 032 410 505 or the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phetchaburi Office at tel. 032 471 005-6 or TAT Call Center at 1672.

จังหวัดเพชรบุรเี ชิญเทีย่ วงาน

พระนครคีร-ี เมืองเพชร ครัง้ ที่ 26 ประจ�ำปี 2555

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ายวินยั บัวประดิษฐ์ ผูว้ า่ ราชการจังหวัดเพชรบุรี เปิดเผยว่า จังหวัดเพชรบุรไี ด้รว่ มกับการท่อง เทีย่ วแห่งประเทศไทย ส�ำนักงานเพชรบุรี และหน่วย งานต่ า งๆก�ำลั ง เตรี ย มความพร้ อ มในการจั ด งาน พระนครคีรี - เมืองเพชร ครัง้ ที่ 26 ประจ�ำปี 2555 ณ บริเวณพระนครคีร(ี เขาวังเพชรบุร)ี โดยปีนกี้ �ำหนดจัด งานระหว่างวันที่ 28 มี.ค. 55 – 6 เม.ย. 55 นี้ ซึง่ งานพระนครคีรถี อื ว่าเป็นงานประเพณีของชาวจังหวัด เพชรบุรี ทีจ่ ดั ติดต่อกันมาเป็นประจ�ำทุกปีและในปีนกี้ ็ มีการจัดขึน้ อย่างยิง่ ใหญ่เพือ่ เป็นการเทิดพระเกียรติ บูรพมหากษัตริยาธิราช รัชกาลที่ 4 รัชกาลที่ 5 รัชกาลที่ 6 และเฉลิมพระชนมายุครบ 84 พรรษา ของพระบาทสมเด็จพระเจ้าอยูห่ วั รวมทัง้ เป็นการฟืน้ ฟูธ�ำรงไว้ซงึ่ ศิลปวัฒนธรรมประเพณีทดี่ งี ามของท้องถิน่ ตลอดจนส่ง เสริมการท่องเทีย่ วของจังหวัดให้เป็นทีร่ จู้ กั อย่างแพร่หลาย และในปีนยี้ งั มีการประดับไฟบนพระนครคีรที สี่ วยงามตระการตาก ว่าหนึง่ ล้านดวง พร้อมทัง้ มีการจุดพลุทกุ ค�ำ่ คืน และร่วมชมลีลาวดีลา้ นดอกบานสะพรัง่ ทัว่ เขาวัง ซึง่ จะเกิดขึน้ ปีละครัง้ เท่านัน้ พร้อมชมขบวนแห่เทิดพระเกียรติจากทุกอ�ำเภอและพิธเี ปิดงานทีย่ งิ่ ใหญ่ตระการตา ส�ำหรับภายในงานก็ยงั มีกจิ กรรมต่างๆ มากมาย ประกอบด้วยการแสดงศิลปวัฒนธรรม สกุลช่างเมืองเพชร นิทรรศการเฉลิมพระเกียรติ การแข่งขันกอล์ฟพระนคร คีรี การออกร้านกาชาด การประกวดสาวหวานเมืองเพชร การแข่งขันประกวดนกกรงหัวจุก การสาธิตและจ�ำหน่ายอาหารขนมพืน้ บ้าน การละเล่นพืน้ บ้านวิถชี วี ติ ไทย กิจกรรมการแสดงจากกรมศิลปากร และการออกร้านจ�ำหน่ายสินค้าของหน่วย งานราชการในจังหวัดเพชรบุรี นอกจากนีย้ งั มีการประกวดภาพถ่าย ซึง่ แบ่งเป็นสองประเภทคือประเภท”วิถซี วี ติ คนชาว เพชรบุร”ี และประเภท”ศิลปะสกุลช่างเมืองเพชร” ซึง่ ผ็ทสี่ นใจสามารถส่งภาพถ่ายเข้าร่วมประกวดไทย จึงขอเชิญชวนนัก ท่องเทีย่ วทัง้ ชาวไทยและชาวต่างประเทศมาเทีย่ วชมงานพระนครคีรี – เมืองเพชรบุรี ครัง้ ที่ 26 ประจ�ำปี 2555 ในครัง้ นีแ้ ละ สามารถสอบถามรายละเอียดเพิม่ เติมได้ทปี่ ระชาสัมพันธ์จงั หวัดเพชรบุรี โทร. 032 428- 047, 032 410- 505 หรือที่ การ ท่องเทีย่ วแห่งประเทศไทย ส�ำนักงานเพชรบุรี โทร. 032 471- 005 – 6 Call Center 1672

Enjoy Unique Shopping and Fun at Santorini Park Cha-Am

he Theme Plaza Development Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of the Pena Group, is opening Santorini Park, the latest modern shopping complex in Cha-Am at the end of March. An exciting new form of retail business under the catchphrase, “Amusing Shopping Experience”, Santorini Park Cha-Am covers 60 Rai area on the Phetchakasem Road (kilometer marker of 198). Blending a total experience of fun and excitement focused at friends, families and couples in love. It´s one-of-a-kind white and blue architecture is derived from Santorini Island in Greece. With an investment of over 50 million Baht, the shopping complex was designed with photography in mind, where even bathrooms and spaces behind buildings can serve as a photo spot.

Santorini Park Cha-Am is divided into 5 distinctive zones. The expansive Park Zone consists of several amusement rides from New Zealand, the Netherlands and Canada, namely the Ferris Wheel which towers 40 meters over head, the thrilling G-Max Reverse Bungee, the innovative Wallholla or the interactive XD Dark Ride. All of them worth over 100 million Baht. The Village Zone is the latest and trendiest shopping area with more than 140 shops with brand names, fashion and accessories, lifestyle products and handicrafts. The Resting Area, located on a 2,000 square meter plot, is a meeting point that will present international fast food chains, pharmacies, souvenir shops and a petrol station apart from bathrooms. The Sunday Art Market, located in the Activity Zone, is designed for art and handicraft devotees. It is open on weekends from 10 a.m onwards.

Thanks to its convenient location from Bangkok, Santorini Park Cha-Am will be a brilliant success.

ซานโตรินี พาร์ค ชะอ�ำ สถานที่ ท่องเทีย่ วแหล่งใหม่ทตี่ อ้ งจับตามอง

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างสาว นัสวีร์ ตันติจริ สกุล กรรมการผูจ้ ดั การบริษทั ธีมพล่าซ่า ดีวลี อปเม้นท์จ�ำกัด ในเครือพีนา่ กรุป๊ ผูบ้ ริหาร ซานโตรินี พาร์ค ชะอ�ำ เปิดเผยว่า อ�ำเภอชะอ�ำ จังหวัดเพชรบุรี ถือว่าเป็นเมืองที่ ก�ำลังเติบโตและมีการพัฒนาทางด้านของการท่องเทีย่ ว นอกจากนีอ้ �ำเภอชะอ�ำยังมีถนนถนนเพรชเกษม วึง่ เป็นถนนสายหลักทีผ่ า่ นสูภ่ าคใต้ ทาง พีนา่ กรุป๊ จึงได้ใช้เงินทุนกว่า 500 ล้านบาท บนพืน้ ที่ 60 ไร่ บริเวณถนนเพชรเกษมขาเข้า กม. ที่ 198 เป็นศุนย์การค้าปลีกรูปแบบใหม่ภายใต้ประสบการณ์ชอ้ บปิง้ และท่องเทีย่ วรูปแบบใหม่ ภายใต้ชอื่ ว่า “ซานโตรินี พาร์ค ชะอ�ำ” โดยมีแนวคิด Amused Shopping Experince หรือการผสมผสานการช้อปปิง้ กับความสนุกสนานจากเครือ่ งเล่นต่างๆ ใช้แนว สถาปัตยกรรมฟ้าขาวจากเกาะซานโตรินี ทางตอนใต้ของยุโรปเพือ่ เป็นแหล่งช้อปปิง้ และแหล่งท่องเทีย่ ว ส�ำหรับนักท่องเทีย่ วทัง้ ชาวไทยและชาวต่างประเทศ ส่วนภายในซานโตรินจี ะแบ่งออกเป็น 5 โซนซึง่ ได้แก่ โซน Park ประกอบไปด้วยเครือ่ งเล่นน�ำเข้าจากนิวซีแลนด์ เนเธอร์แลนด์ และแคนาดา ทีค่ ดั สรร มาอย่างดีในแง่ความสนุก ความแปลกใหม่ ความปลอดภัย อาทิ ชิงช้าสวรรค์สงู 40 เมตร ซึง่ ถือเป็นจุด แลนด์มาร์คของศูนย์ G-Max Reverse bungee แคปซูลดีดขึน้ ฟ้า และWaiiholla เครือ่ งเล่นปีนป่าย ตัวแรกของเอเชียXD Dark Ride เครือ่ งเล่น 7Dสุดไฮเทคฯลฯ ซึง่ รวมมูลค่ากว่า 100 ล้าน บาท โซ นวิลเลจถือว่าเป็นแหล่งช้อปปิง้ สุอฮิตแห่งใหม่ ซึง่ จะรวบรวมเอาสินค้าแฟชัน่ เครือ่ ง่ ประดับแบร์ดสินค้า ไลฟ์สไตล์ เทรนดี้ และออกแบบตกแต่งสินค้าลดราคากว่า 150 ร้าน โซน Rest Area หรือจุดนัดพบแวะพัก บนพืน้ ทีก่ ว่า 2000 ตร.ม. ซึง่ มีรา้ นค้าขายปลีกกว่า 10 ร้าน อาทิ ร้านกาแฟ ร้านฟาสต์ฟดู ร้าน สะดวกซือ้ สถานีบริการ โซน Event จะรวมกิจกรรมต่างๆทัง้ ทีบ่ ริษทั จัดเองและหน่วยงานต่างๆทีจ่ ะ หมุนเวียนกันจัดกิจกรรมต่างๆ และโซนสุดท้ายเป็นโซนSunday Art Market หรือโซนช้อปลานศิลปะ สินค้าแฮนด์เมค ในรูปแบบตลาดนัดซึง่ ซานโตรินี พาร์ค ชะอ�ำ จะทดลองเปิดให้บริการในเดือนมีนาคม พ.ศ. 2555 นี้ นับว่าจะเป็นแหล่งท่องเทีย่ วแหล่งใหม่ทจี่ ะสร้างแรงจูงใจให้นกั ท่องเทีย่ วเข้ามาสัมผัสกับ ความแปลกใหม่ ความสนุกสนาน ของเครือ่ งเล่นรวมถึงแหล่งช้อปปิง้ ทีท่ นั สมัยทีส่ ดุ ในชะอ�ำก็วา่ ได้

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By Sorravit

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Local news

12th

he sky in Cha-Am will be kite-studded with kites of the

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ารท่องเทีย่ วแห่งประเทศไท

Volume 3 issue 8 April 2012

เทศกา

Volume 3 issue 8 April 2012

Local & Hotel News

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Press Release Golden Tulip Sovereign Hotel Bangkok

“Hotel of the Year 2011” Mr. Mark Van Ogtrop, Managing Director of Golden Tulip Southeast Asia (left), recently presented the award “Hotel of the Year 2011 : the best hotel of the region” to Mr. Vathana Paradorachai (right), Vice President of Golden Tulip Sovereign Hotel Bangkok, at Rachawedee Room of Golden Tulip Sovereign Hotel Bangkok.

The witnesses are (from left) Mr. Worrachat Korbkusol, Brand Manager and Ms. Pimphan Tomete, Executive Assistance.

Cha-Am Today Language Corner Welcome to the latest edition of Language Corner, the easy to understand guide to speaking conversational Thai.

Sometimes, you want to give your full address to someone in Thai. Sometimes, you see forms in Thai requiring your address but you don’t know some meaning of the words they use, such as the forms provided by the Immigration which use some Thai words.

Tee-yoo (Address) 48/2, Soi 57, Naresdamri road, Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan, 77110 Baan lake-tee 48/2 Soi 57 Ta-non Naresdamri Dtam-bon Hua Hin Am-pur Hua Hin Jang-wat Prachuap Khiri Khan Ra-hat-brai-sa-nee 77110

House No. 48/2 Street No.57 Naresdamri road Hua Hin sub-district Hua Hin district Prachuap Khiri Khan Province 77110

The difference between ‘Soi’ and ‘Ta-non’ is the size. ‘Soi’ refers to street whereas ‘Ta-non’ is bigger like road.

For post code, ‘ra-hat’ means code and ‘brai-sa-nee’ means post office. For short, you can say only the word ‘ra-hat’. The code itself reads individually, for instance, 77110 reads as ‘jet-jet-nung-nung-soon’.

Large housing estates sometimes use area codes in the address for instance, Moo-baan Tippawan Tippawan village Moo 3 Area No.3

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Cha Am Today

Jazz in Cha Am

Sunday night Jam Sessions in Cha-am

here was a time when you had to wait for the annual Hua Hin jazz festival to see some good bands playing jazz. If you were into Thai rock, you could also dodge flying glass bottles at the annual Cha-am Reggae festival (where music can be heard sometimes when there is no gunshots, screams or ambulance sirens troubling the peaceful and “economy-boosting-good-for-the-cityimage” event).

Now live music can be enjoyed weekly, in a friendly atmosphere of a music bar, with great musicians and a nice crowd of people (mostly Scandinavians) cheering, singing and dancing.

For those of you who appreciate live jazz and related good music, Cha Am has a fine music bar, the Baan Chang. It’s run by a famous Norwegian entertainer, Nissa Nyberget. He presides over a wellorganized jam session every Sunday night from 7 pm onward.

Baan Chang, offers shows every night but Sunday night is Jam Night at Baan Chang, drawing an audience and roster of musicians that is heavily Scandinavian. These seasons are very lively, with Mr. Nissa encouraging musicians and listeners alike. Freddy Lindquist, a famous early rocker ( “Black is Black” composer ) plays the electric guitar incredibly brilliant.

Baan Chang is simply the best place to be on a Sunday night in Cha-am. That’s what a lot of people think, and that’s why the place is fully packed every week! Baan Chang is famous for its jazz and rock jam sessions. What makes this venue so special is that every session is unique, with different musicians and singers taking turns on stage. If Sunday nights are too busy for your taste, a smaller band is playing live every other night (except Monday). Baan Chang is at the end of soi 9 north, next to Methavalai hotel. Sunday night session begins at 8:00 pm. Baan Chang is located on Soi 8 North in Cha-Am, just off the beach next to the Methavalai hotel.

Volume 3 issue 8 April 2012