Hua Hin Today March 2015 by Hua Hin Today

March 2015

The first round of Thailand National Kiteboarding Championships at Pak Nam Pranburi

Thailand is One of the Leading Destinations for Thousands of International Students Pursuing Their Higher Education Degrees

Budget Breakfast in Town Page F6 & F7

Page 16

Prachuab Kirikhan The Amazing City of Three Bays These Festivals feature colourful parades showcasing the local traditions and culture of the Province.

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3 Contents

Editor’s Note

Welcome to the March issue, heading June started with a special wine dinner at towards school vacations, as well as fresh the Centara Grand eed it.at our City ideas and new waysBeach of looking Best Regards, and Region. Eleni Considering our cover story, we asked students from Webster University Hua Hin all about their Thailand experiences. We also interviewed Akarade, Managing Director of Seenspace Hua Hin which will be opening soon. Our regular golf section returns this month, with some behind the scenes action from the True Thailand Classic at Black Mountain. By the way the winner of the Classic was Australia’s Andrew Dodt in a classic finish from Thailand’s own Thongchai Jaidee and Scott Hend. A wealth of ideas and suggestions for how to wear colours are described by our expert fashion writer as well as the most beautifully wearable Haute couture Paris pieces from the January Catwalk Fashion week. You’ll also find tips how to maximize the benefits you get from massage, along with our Do’s and Don’ts. As for Top Choices in Food & Wine Lovers this month we went out and found our favorite Budget Breakfasts in town. Elsewhere in the issue, you will see us celebrating Chinese New Year in Hua Hin with beautiful shows and great buffets. Finally, don’t miss some happenings in town this month. Starting with the public holiday on 4th of March, Pak Num Pranburi Kiteboarding Championship on 7th and 8th, International Women’s Day on the 8th and the Amarin Triathlon unlimited on 14TH. The school holidays are starting and we promise to come up with some great places to go with your kids in our coming issue. Don’t forget that now you can find us in our new location in Soi 116 together with SC-Home living. Happy Holidays to all the kids; Have fun and stay safe.

04 News 08 Catch Walk Season 14 Golf 20 Cha-Am Today 23 Economy 28 People Today 30 Motoring 31 Classifieds 32 Entertainment 34 Wellness 38 Ultimate Getaway INSERTS : Food & Wine Lovers Property Today

Best Regards, Eleni

Who is in charge? General Manager:

Eleni Mastronikoli

eleni@huahintoday.com Consultant:

Michael Van Doornewaard

Editor:

Pol. Maj. Gen. Noi Wannapaiboon

Sales Manager: sales@huahintoday.com advertising@huahintoday.com Assistant to the editor: Rotjana Saitakam (Nok) ea@huahintoday.com Graphic Designer:

Grit Promprasert, Nicolas Cheimonidis

Accountant: accounting@huahintoday.com Journalists:

Chamnan Puengjoh, Supansa Kraiwaad, Soravit Eiam-Aek

Where to find us! Hua Hin Today Co., Ltd Address:

62/69 Soi Moobaan Hua-Na, Phechkaseam Road,

Nongkae, Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan Thailand 77110

Tel. 086 338 2203 / 090 435 8306

Website: huahintoday.com Facebook: facebook.com/huahintodaynews Twitter: twitter.com/huahintoday

Some Important Regional Contacts Organisation Hua Hin Cha-Am Police 191 (Emergency) 191 (Emergency) 032 511 027 032 471 321 Highway Police 1193 Tourist Police 1155 Fire Station 199 (Emergency) 199 (Emergency) 032 511 666 Ambulance 1554 Medical Emergency 1669 Electrical Call Centre 1129 Alcoholics Anonymous 089 587 682 Bangkok Hospital 1719 033 616 800 San Paolo 032 532 576 Cha Am Hospital 032 471 808 Hua Hin Hospital 032 520 401

Transport Bus Station Railway Station

032 514 477 032 512 770

032 471 159

Government Muncipality Immigration Tourist Info Centre Water Supply Post Office Power Board

032 511 047 1132 032 522 656 032 511 047 032 471 005 032 511 677 032 477 646 032 511 063 032 477 252 032 512 215 032 472 069

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

4 Pak Nam Pranburi Kiteboarding

Hua Hin Bicycle Club Launched The Mayor of Hua Hin, along with the Boh Fai Bicycle Club and a former Hua Hin paratrooper have established the Hua Hin Bicycle Club to promote good health and exercise. The Mayor of Hua Hin Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul told Hua Hin Today that the new bicycle club he has founded with a member of the Boh Fai Bicycle Club Mr. Siwanat Watthanakhum and the former paratrooper, Pol. Lt. Col. Pramote Maneechai, now has 200 members. Activities includes a weekly 30 kilometre cycling run every Sunday at 7 a.m., starting at the Hua Hin clock tower to various destinations: Khao Takiab or Khao Tao or Wat Huay Mongkhol Buddhist Temple or Boh Fai Community or Hua Hin Airport.

The first round of Thailand National Kiteboarding Championships will be held between the 7th and 8th March at Pak Nam, Pranburi. The event has 200 participants, including from overseas and is being planned as a showcase event both for the sport of kiteboarding but also to promote Pranburi as a sporting and tourism destination. Thai youth have won the Asian Championships in this sport for six consecutive times, specialising in Open Course Racing, TT Racing and Freestyle competition. To help fund the

continuation of this success, a special t-shirt has been designed and will be on sale which includes a lucky drawer for a holiday package valued at 8,500 THB. Many Pranburi tourism businesses will be participating in the event with food stalls and displays about the attractions of the Pranburi area.

“As the Mayor of Hua Hin, I am pleased about the a new bicycle club and would like everyone who is over 30 years old to bike because it is a good exercise and an

The Hua Hin mayor also added that he was thinking about some more activities in conjunction with the Club. He will discuss this with restaurant owners in Hua Hin and ask them to give 10% discount to the bicycle club’s members who have a meal there. Doing so will encourage locals and tourists to bike more. Membership of the Hua Hin Bicycle Club is not limited to Thais, any foreigners who would like to become a Club’s members can complete registration at the Boh Fai Bicycle Club, the Naresuan Military Camp’s Historical Centre or the Hua Hin Municipality.

The action of kiteboarding is fast and furious and a great spectator opportunity. There will also be an opportunity to talk with the experts about learning the sport yourself if you are looking for something wet and wild!

Dual Track Railway Between Prachuap KhiriKhan and Chumpon by 2017

effective way to maintain health. Moreover, biking is environmentally friendly because it is energy saving and helps solve pollution problems. In China and many countries in Europe, people are encouraged to ride a bike. The bicycle club will also allow more local people in Hua Hin to use bicycles in the future,” said Mr. Nopporn.

Hua Hin Train Library to be Renovated The Mayor of Hua Hin, the local office of non-formal and informal education and the Hua Hin train station are planning to renovate the Hua Hin train library, making if a tourist attraction. After meeting with the Director-General of the State Railway of Thailand and the Transport Minister, the Hua Hin Mayor Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul said that he had visited the Hua Hin train library by a garden next to the Hua Hin train station with the Director of the local office of non-formal and informal education Ms. Sutthikarn Yamnil and the chief of the Hua Hin train station Mr. Prasong Komuk.

The Ministry of Transport has said the dual track railway linking Hua Hin district and Chumphon province will be completed in 2 years. According to Transport Permanent Secretary, Soitip Traisut, the planned construction of the railway has already been approved by EIA, which indicates that it will have little impact on the environment. However, the Ministry will have to seek approvals from the Office of National Environment Board and the Cabinet before the auction of construction contract can take place. The construction is expected to begin as early as June if the contractor can be named in March. Although details of the 90-kilometer long dual-track railway between Hua Hin district and the city area of Prajuab Khiri Khan are still being collected, the construction will be completed no later than 2017, Mrs. Soitip said. HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

Since its opening by HRH Princess Sirindhorn 6 years ago, the library requires new publications, modern electronic loan system and efficient library service. There is a need for renovation and an upgrading to increase its tourism appeal. At the moment, the State Railway of Thailand has not handed over the train library to the Hua Hin Municipality and the local office of non-formal and informal education. Concerned authorities cannot propose a budget for improvement and renovation. “As the Mayor of Hua Hin, I am sure that once the train library is given to us, we’ll be able to find some budget to improve and make it more useful for research and education of visitors and our

students here,” said Mr. Nopporn. “This will also serve as a tourist attraction for foreigners.” The Hua Hin mayor added that the meeting with the Minister of Transport, the Permanent Secretary of Transport and the Director-General of the State Railway of Thailand focused mainly on how to transfer the train library to the Municipality and how to wisely make use of and add more value to old train bogies.

6 TAT to Distribute Amulets to Worldwide Offices

Prachuab Kirikhan The Amazing City of Three Bays The Prachuab Khirikhan Governor Mr. Weera Sriwatthanatrakul, has described preparations for two of the Prachuap Khiri Khan City’s annual events: ‘The Red Cross Festival and the ‘The Amazing City of Three Bays Festival’. These Festivals feature colourful parades showcasing the local traditions and culture of the Province. The Festivals will be officially opened on 20th March and will highlight a big light and sound show about the history of Prachuap Khirikhan. Other festive activities include a beauty pageant, a cruise to admire the beauty of the city and many local products will be on sale. Held at the Royal Park in front of the Prachuap Khirikhan Provincial Office from 20th to 29th March 2015, this event will also promote diplomatic relations between Thailand and its neighboring countries as representatives from China and Myanmar are expected to attend, said the Governor.

The director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in collaboration with Wat Huay Mongkhol Buddhist monastery, will make amulets of Luang Pu Thuad, one of the most well-known Buddhist monks of Thailand, and distribute them to 57 TAT offices around the world. The TAT director also announced that Thai tourism in 2015 would enjoy many booming periods. The TAT director Mr. Thawatchai Aranyik told Hua Hin Today that, before he retired in October, 2015, he had asked for cooperation from Venerable Phra Khru Phairot from Wat Huay Mongkhol to make 60 5-inch amulets of Luang Pu Thuad in commemoration to his retirement. 57 of them will be distributed to TAT offices in Scandinavian Europe, Asia and Thailand as many Thai people pay respect to Luang Pu Thuad. Apart from serving as a moral support for Thai people in Thailand and overseas, the amulets will help promote Buddhism outside the country as well. Besides Wat Huay Mongkhol which takes part in this project, TAT is receiving support from private and public organizations in Hua Hin, namely Hua Hin District Office, Tourism Business Association of Cha-Am and Hua Hin, Rotary Club Hua Hin and Lions Club Hua Hin. In terms of tourism in Thailand this year, Mr. Thawatchai said many tourists had kept coming to Thailand since November,

2014. Hua Hin, Pattaya, Phuket and Chiang Mai are still much favored by foreigners, especially those Scandinavian Europe and Russian. Even though Russia is now facing economic and political crises, Russian people who can afford travelling overseas still choose Thailand as their holiday destination. “I believe that, in this year, Thailand will earn a hundred thousand million Baht from tourism business, because, despite existing political problems, foreigners still want to come here as we are famous for safety standard, hospitality, fine cuisine, and natural wonders,” added Mr. Thawatchai. Finally, the TAT director would like Thai people, particularly hoteliers, guesthouse owners, restaurateurs, drivers and tour guides, to give foreign visitors a warm welcome. More importantly, he asked Thai people not to take any advantage on tourists. In doing so, more foreign visitors will come here, thus helping local Thai business to prosper.

Prachuab Khiri Khan launches Awareness Campaign on Fishing Prohibition The Province of Prachuab Khiri Khan has launched a campaign to boost awareness among local fishermen, that fishing is prohibited during the temporary closure

of the Gulf of Thailand. The closure started on February 15th and will end on May 15th and encompasses the coasts of Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Surat Thani Provinces. The aim is to conserve and revive the local ecological environment as well as increase the abundance of marine life in the area. Prachuab Khiri Khan Governor, chiefs of provincial units, students and local fishermen recently released one million black tiger shrimps into the Gulf, to increase the quantity of shrimps in the province’s marine ecology. The annual closure is a collaborative effort by six agencies: the Fisheries Department, the Royal Thai Navy, the Marine Police Division, the Marine Department, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources and the Customs Department. Violators found engaging in fishing activities during the gulf closure will be subject to a fine of 5,000-10,000 baht, imprisonment of up to one year or both.

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

Human Trafficking Suppression in Hua Hin

The Prachuab Khirikhan Police Commander, along with local police officers and military staff, is actively inspecting companies and entertainment venues in Hua Hin under a current project of human trafficking suppression. The Police Commander Pol. Maj. Gen. Kasana Jaemsawang said that the Thai government and the national police headquarters of Thailand had ordered all police stations in Thailand to keep an eye on trafficking of human according to the international treaty of the US and Europe concerning human trafficking, because some countries have been lately found to allow this illegal act to continue. In this regard, the Prachuab Khirikhan and Hua Hin police, military staff and local administrators have recently visited and inspected several entertainment venues, industrial sites, hotels and fishing piers to see whether there exists any human trafficking or not. Moreover, they also informed entrepreneurs, businesspeople and hoteliers that recruitment of boys and girls under 18 years old to work either voluntarily or by force is strictly prohibited. Should it be necessary to hire foreign workers, especially those from Cambodia, Myanmar and Laos, to work in Thailand, employers must ask for permission to do so from the provincial labor office and the local police station. In addition, the Thai government and the national police headquarters of Thailand have lately sent police officers to randomly inspect restaurants and karaoke bars in Hua Hin because some complaints were filed concerning recruiting foreign girls to

work as waitresses and sex workers at the same time. Also, there were cases in which some foreign boys and girls were forced to work as street beggars, or Rohingya people were smuggled to Thailand to work for industrial sites or fishing business. Pol. Maj. Gen. Kasana added that, at present, police officers from the suppression unit of Hua Hin Police Office, led by Pol. Col. Chaiyakorn Sriladecho and Pol. Lt. Col. Samer Yusamran, were inspecting many areas in Hua Hin both in daytime and nighttime. So, people should trust the police officers that their work will not affect tourism activities and business here. The inspection will last until April, 2015, for the sake of good living condition for both Thai and foreign people here. Besides human trafficking, the police officers in charge will be responsible for arresting any foreigners who commit crimes in the city, namely trafficking of human or drugs, forming of a mafia group or provoking national insecurity. Anyone who has information of such acts is suggested to inform police officers or concerned authorities as immediately as possible.

8 Haute Couture Paris review After a week of terror; the first week of January in Paris, the end of the month had a major refreshing effect with the world of Couture being back in the fashion capital.

JEAN PAUL GAULTIER

VERSACE

Designer Brands like Christian Dior, Chanel, Versace and Armani showed off timeless designs and silhouettes on the catwalk. So far, the spring-summer collections showd a fearless and proud France at Fashion Week’s Haute Couture shows. My best of the best in a few looks below. CHRISTIAN DIOR

either side. The Armani models had sleek ponytails, feminine jackets and oversized accessories. Glittering nude fabrics, everything that makes you think of a virgin tropical jungle. VALENTINO

Raf Simons’ designs at the Dior couture show featured graphic layers of sequins, lace and mesh in a dreamy colour palette, paired with bright vinyl pumps with a David Bowie soundtrack in the background. The French brand’s spring-summer collection was a playful blend of psychedelic and futuristic, with a sense of ‘50, ‘60s and ‘70s styles. Simons said he was inspired by “the romance of a near past, when space-age and mind-expanding ideas of a future felt full of possibilities for society, pop culture and fashion.” CHANEL The man responsible for a million sexy red carpet moments is at it again, this time taking the city of lights by storm. Of course, there are its codes: silhouettes two-in-one, tennis stripes, tuxedo, the key corset or the tip of denim.

Donatella Versace’s new collection theme was refreshingly simple, not complicated, yet sexy. Long fitted dresses hugged curves, while transparent cutouts and high slits showed legs, shoulders and hips. The cuts were plunging and the colours were bold. The Italian designer described the spring-summer collection Sunday as being “about cut and the curves of a woman’s body. When we started the collection, I said I wanted no straight lines at all. Every seam is curved”. Totally Glamorous and a bit provocative!!

Of course, there is touch of humor (we love the bun cake on the bride) yet, regardless Jean Paul Gaultier has decided to treat us and it’s never boring. His vision of marriage, inevitably, is unique, joyful, theatrical, romantic, contemporary, going between mixed marriage and marriage for all. Feminine masculinity was the name of the game at JPG, bringing a cool but ohso-glamorous vibe that’s hard to resist, couture or not.

ARMANI PRIVE

The catwalk at the Chanel couture show was set inside a giant terrarium, with a centerpiece of life-sized tropical flora made out of white and grey paper. The paper buds opened into exotic blooms of pink, red and yellow. Karl Lagerfeld’s 73-piece collection was showing bare waistlines, tweed suits, crystal flowers and mesh hats. “The new cleavage is the stomach,” Lagerfeld said of his spring-summer 2015 designs. The colour scheme was a mix of dusty, sugary pastels with pops of electric blue, yellow and orange. He added “Especially after this dark, horrid beginning of the year, there was something like this needed, I think,” Chanel’s creative director told Reuters, referring to the murderous January 7th attack on Charlie Hebdo, the satire magazine in Paris.

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

One thing we’ve always adored about JPG is his insane inability to be predictable. A black-and-white tuxedo/halter dress was the split personality of garments, leaving us both perplexed and inspired.

Giorgio Armani’s 68-pieces collection for spring and summer featured Oriental prints in delicate structures. Elegant silhouettes draped in silk and beaded materials walked down a catwalk with bamboo columns on

Wildflowers in messy braided hair, vintage shirts, high collars and folkloric gowns Russian peasantry, but also Renaissance courts. Poetic and pure, inspired naïve embroideries blouses and featured smocking waistlines or bustier peasant tops, Russian folk dresses and gilets were a sublime expression of Valentino’s modernday elegance.

10 How to wear more colours this year According to Coco Chanel, “The best colour in the world is the one that looks good on you.” But how are you supposed to know which colours look best if you’re always wearing black? It’s time to shake off your bright shade and embrace a bolder and vibrant look in 2015. Read on for our tips on how work colour into your look the easy way Trade-in basic black for a different neutral.

you need to find a new neutral. I’m a fan of navy blue or nude tones lately, but gray and brown are good options too. Wear a neon shoe. This is one of my favourite ways to wear colour lately. I just bought a pair of bright red pointy toes from Charlie & Keith in Bangkok and have been wearing them every chance I get. The great thing about bright shoes is that they brighten up even the most boring outfit. Red shoes with a little black dress or hot pink heels paired with jeans and a top – either way, you can’t go wrong.

The trick to picking the right colourful bag? Make sure the shade will match well with the rest of your wardrobe. A cobalt blue purse would be perfect if you wear lots of cool colours like gray and lavender, while a yellow bag would be a great choice if you normally rock shades of brown and other warm tones.

with neutral shoes and a coordinating bag. Take a look at the pic below, and you won’t have to worry about mismatching. Look after all; it works!! Sport colourful accessories.

Wear a multi colored outfit.

Add a bright handbag.

Add a pop of colour with sunglasses. Or explore other colourful accessories, like a bright bag or an eye-catching bracelet. I’m not banning the colour black, it’s one of my favorites and makes a chic base to any outfit. If you wear black because you can’t think of anything else to wear, then

Bright bags also a hot trend and another simple way to make your outfit more colourful. While black and brown handbags are super popular because they “go with everything”, bright ones are just as versatile!

Just have fun! If you’re totally clueless when it comes to putting colours together, colour locking has no rules nowadays. Just pair your frock

Beauty tips of the month:

Do’s/Don’t:

How to maximize your massage session; things to do before and after.

Daffodiles Pumps / Pointy toes Back in early 2010, it seemed like everyone had a pair of Christian Louboutin Daffodiles Pumps shoes. But since late 2013, it is a total fashion faux-pas to have them still on your feet. Instead they were switched out for the pointed toes ones. More sleek and modern especially when it comes to dressy attire. There are perfect in any occasions, from cocktail dress to skinny jeans!!

To me; massage is magic and the research backs me up . Massage has been shown to reduce fatigue in cancer patients, to lessen the intensity of lower back pain, to boost the body’s immune system, and to lower both blood pressure and anxiety. Again, magical! Although research isn’t conclusive, it’s good after sports activities, some studies have shown that massage can decrease and delay muscle soreness. The key though, is to get a massage quickly after your workout. But you know what?, sporting or not I think massage is wonderful anytime. Following are some great massage tips from the American Massage Therapy Association. How you can benefit most from your 60-minute slice of heaven. 10 Tips to Get the Most From Your Massage 1. Be open and receptive. This should be a good experience, try to de-stress your entire body before you start the session. 2. Avoid the period straight after a meal or on a empty stomach. Your tummy shouldn’t be growling or digesting. 3. Watch the clock and arrive early. If you arrive in a rushed state, it may take longer to relax, and you’ll miss out on bliss time! 4. Take it all off or don’t. Take off only as much clothing as you want. If you don’t want to totally strip, wear comfortable clothing that the therapist can work with. 5. Communicate, communicate, communicate. Before the session, give accurate health information and let the massage therapist know your expectations and reasons for the massage. If there is area on your body you want to have softer massage, please say so. Let them know if you have any allergies to oils and lotions. If anything happens that you dislike or HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

My final tip is to use colour to express your personality and add some fun to your look. Even if you don’t match perfectly, at the end of the day, it’s just fashion.

seems improper, you have the right to ask the massage therapist to stop and end the session. 6. Just breathe. Breathing helps facilitate relaxation. People often stop or limit their breathing when they feel anxious or a sensitive area is massaged. Just relax … 7. Now is not the time to tighten up. Contracting your muscles during the massage is counterproductive. If you find that your muscles are tight, your therapist may need to adjust the massage technique to help you relax the affected area. Breathe deeply and try to quiet your mind. One good trick is to follow the hands of the massage therapist.

In Celebrity’s World last month: The Sag’s Awards best dresses

The Grammys:

January was ending with The SAG Awards in LA and it was a big night for fashion. But which stylish stars came out on top, let me show you my favorites.

Grammy Awards was the Cleavage Carpet.

Menswear with a feminine twist was a big theme, with Emma Stone making my best of the best dressed lists in their suit-style creations. Emma looked fantastic in a Dior couture tuxedo gown.

8. Become Best Friends with H2O. Hydrate!! Hydrate!! Drink the bottle of water, or tea they offer you after the massage. Ask for a second cup if you wish! Those muscles need it! 9. Don’t get up too quickly. Allow for some quiet time after your session. If you’re dizzy or light-headed after the massage, take it slow. There’s no rush. 10. Be prepared to get addicted. The therapeutic effects of massage are cumulative, so the more often you get a massage, the better you will feel and the more quickly your body will respond. We are in Thailand and massages sessions are quite affordable, so treat yourself as much as you can. Your body will thank you for it.

Another best one is Jennifer Aniston in a plunging vintage Galliano gown, which showed off her famous yoga-toned body to perfection thanks to its slinky design. She upped the look with a body chain necklace, highlighting her sexy cleavage even more.

Taylor Swift chose a curtain-skirted Elie Saab half-mini/half-gown. What I love is the shape of the dress and the colour combination with her shoes. One look that just keeps working for Kim Kardashian? The low lowwwww cut neckline with long sleeves. Even better when it’s coming from the latest haute couture catwalk from the glittering Jean Paul Gaultier. Love, Love, Love!!

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

12 GOLF A Pro-Amazing Day @ Black Mountain Pro Am days are not usually promoted as a spectator opportunity but it’s almost guaranteed to be a great day out for golfers just before every major Golfing Event. The Pro –Am day prior to the True Thailand Classic at Black Mountain was a perfect example. A Pro-Am is when professionals from the field of a main event will be ‘teamed up’ with amateur golfers, sometimes one pro and three amateurs, sometimes two and two. Pros off the back competition tees and amateurs off more forward markers is the usual format with the number of birdies by the team determining the winners. The amateurs are typically representing a sponsoring company and for many it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to mix it with the best of the best. One told me that it’s been on his ‘bucket list’ for years. It’s also an opportunity for spectators to get up close and maybe have the chance to

chat with stars of the game. None of the tension and absolute obedience to the ‘code of silence’ required during competition. After all it’s really a fun day and a practice opportunity for the pros; so cameras and autographs are OK – within reason! Any tension is probably felt most by the amateurs and perhaps their caddies. With handicaps of up to twenty five, the prospect of an embarrassing shanked tee shot is on their mind. I asked one amateur about the level of intimidation during the game. However he said the pros were very friendly, undemanding and accommodating; it was really the spectators that worried him the most. I had the chance to chat with Spain’s Miguel Angel Jimenez and asked what he may do if he happened to win the Thai Classic Hole In One Prize, a Black Mountain Villa Unit valued at 10 million THB. I shouldn’t have expected

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

anything less than a very professional response; all about prizes being the result of a sound preparation like any good golfing score. “Don’t think about the building, think about the foundations”; a very apt metaphor! Memo to amateur golfers: How many good rounds have you ruined by counting the score and the rewards to come after a good first nine, then watching it all fall to pieces after that premature anticipation? Australian Scott Hend’s caddie let me know that the best golfers don’t clean their wedges between shots; that is likely to reduce the ball spin. And that his irons weren’t looking old and rusty by neglect. That’s because his clubs aren’t chromed, they are allowed to be pitted and corroded, that also helps with his shot-making it seems. After a wayward drive, England’s Simon Dyson hit a second ball then explained to me that he was allowed a Mulligan in this

form of the game. I guess I shouldn’t have suggested disqualification was on the cards! Attending a Pro – Am day at this level of competition is a great day out AND likely to be free! You won’t see every player in the main event, but you will get the opportunity to see many stars of the game in a relaxed and friendly frame of mind ‘up close and personal’. This is also when there are likely to be promotional/photographic activities happening. In this case a photo shoot with Johan Edfors, Thomas Bjorn and Thongchai Jaidee experiencing some martial arts lessons, Thai style. However as an ex-paratrooper, the latter may have ‘been there and done that’ before. Footnote: I did manage to get seven star autographs on a Cha-Am Golf Club cap. Should be a good auction item for the Club’s Charity Day later in the year!

14 GOLF Classic Colours Being a spectator at a major golfing event may seem like a boring prospect for non-golfers but it’s not only about golf. Fashion, spectacle and enjoying the theatre of the day is also on offer.

Most Colourful helpers The judges couldn’t separate two groups of helpers for this award. The orange crew was the voluntary course marshals. Our photo shows the coordinator Ole on the communication line very eager to ensure the player’s on course were happy and undisturbed. These unsung heroes of the event had responsibility for maintaining silence in the crowd and that there was no other form of interference to players. Apart from good eyesight and concentration, there’s also nothing wrong with the player’s hearing, they can hear a camera shutter from 50 metres!.

Worst Dress award Most spectators favour golfing gear and typically are very well dressed, mostly keeping to the etiquette and dress code of the game. However there was one noticeably exception ……………………………………..

Sharing this award were the Black Mountain caddies dressed in their customary canary yellow and black. No caddie duties during the competition so their task was to keep the score boards up to date and fore-caddie duties. The lady with the green flag is signaling the ball is in play and OK. The lady with the yellow (the ball is in trouble) and red (no sure what has happened) wasn’t too busy with the high standard of golf on display.

Most Enthusiastic Alongside the 10th fairway there are a number of Black Mountain houses and villas, most showing no sign of life. However there was a big party happening at this house. The course marshals could do nothing to curb their enthusiasm or somewhat raucous support for their favourite players. On day three a sign at the window showed the name Karlsberg, but by day 4 this had changed to Jaidee. Perhaps they really wanted to pick a winner and almost did!

Most Colourful Golfer American ‘bad boy’ John Daly raised the bar some time ago with his dramatically colourful outfits and is yet to be matched however there was plenty of colour in the field of the True Thailand classic with fleuro pinks and white trousers being the favourite choice. Our award for the most colourful golfer went to Australian Scott Hend on day 3. He was leading the field at the completion of that day’s competition, maybe the ‘fiery’ clothing helped. Most Colourful spectators This couple was unequivocal and obvious winners. Matching red, white and blue outfits, again in the John Daley style; from the caps down to to the shoes. The umbrella was showing the brand name ‘Loudmouth, it’s easy to see why.

EnJoying Their Golf One of the most popular tournaments on the Cha-Am golfing calendar, the Joy’s Open, was held on 15th February 2015 at Palm Hills Golf Course. Well known Cha-Am identity Kolbjorn Moe was the host of the Event for amateurs only for the eighth time with a full field of 60 golfers.

The golfers were typically European, especially those from Scandinavian countries; however Thai players are becoming more prominent at each event and this year the overall winner was an eight handicapper with a net 71, Wichote Wangdee. He is a caddie from Sawang, who obviously relished the opportunity to play away from his home course. Another Thai player, Siri Hoppestad, was also the winner from a field of eighteen in the lady’s category. She had a fantastic net score of 65 and plays off twenty five. The major sponsor for the event was the Sikhara Residence, a residential property project currently under construction, with three of the management staff taking part in the competition. An undertaking to continue that sponsorship was given at the prize-giving dinner in the evening. Joy’s Open is a great example of why golf in the region Is such an important part of community life. It’s all about getting along with like-minded people in a social and friendly atmosphere. Doesn’t really matter how skilled you are but it is important to be encouraging, welcoming and to keep to the rules. As host Kolbjorn says – “EnJoy your Life – EnJoy your Day – EnJoy your Golf”. The next Joy’s Open will be held on 15th November. You can contact Kolbjorn at the EnJoy To Eat Restaurant in Cha-Am, or sending an e-mail to: kolbjorn.moe@gmail.com.

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

16 Coming to Thailand The International Student’s Perspective

by Sangay Lhaden

Thailand is one of the leading destinations for thousands of international students pursuing their higher education degrees. Every year, students from all over the world – America, Europe, Australia, Africa and other Asian countries, come to Thailand to study. The latest figures suggest that something like 17,000 international students come here each year. What have been the most difficult issues for you to contend with?

Do you think your experience here has helped you to learn to respect cultural differences?

Woo Jin - South Korean

Leaving home and settling into a foreign country can be of both a good and bad experience. Good – you experience a different culture first-hand. Bad – you experience a different culture first-hand! Being thrown into a culture different from your previous experiences can be exciting as well as stressful. To get to know how coming into Thailand has been as an experience, we talked with some international students studying at Webster University, Cha-Am. Webster University, Cha-Am, is one of several study abroad opportunities away from the home campus at St. Louis, USA. The university is known for its student diversity. The students come from places as near as Burma, Malaysia, Vietnam, Nepal, India, Bhutan, China, and from as far away as Europe, Africa, Australia and America. “Thailand is rich with its aesthetic beauty in terms of nature and culture, it has a certain allure to it”, said Abishesh from Nepal, when asked why he chose Thailand for his studies. Most students, even those from the nearby countries, expressed appreciation for the culture and the people here, which somehow stood as a strong factor supporting their decision to come to Thailand for their studies. One of the major things that concerned the students while coming into Thailand was the fact that most Thais don’t speak English. The communication barrier is one major problem that every non-Thai speaking foreigner in Thailand faces. One of the other things that concerned the students was the food. Nathan, from Vietnam, cannot eat spicy food and as most Thai food is spicy this worried him (and his stomach) greatly. Some of the students had no concerns or so you’d like to think. “I had no concerns other than the small food portions” one of the students confessed.” It’s always amazing when you meet new people and they tell you how they’ve landed; from where they were to where they are. Hua Hin Today talked to several

students at Webster and everyone had a story to tell, each different; yet they all led to the same destination. Anita from Denmark was invited by a friend and came to Hua Hin in 2011, planning to stay here only for a year. She fell in love with the place, the people and the culture. After one year passed, she couldn’t leave. Well, it’s 2015 now, and she’s still here!

Anita’s Denmark “The cultural diversity here, I love it! It is really exciting to experience new cultures, and the Thai culture is so different from what I’m used to and really exciting with so many nice and smiling people.” What has surprised you the most about being a student in Thailand?

What has been the best part of your experiences?

Yang - Chinese “Yes, definitely! Everyone should go study abroad, into a different culture. It really opens up one’s mind and helps respect cultural differences.” Will you recommend the Thailand study experience when you return home?

Saydie - American “Meeting new people and traveling around! The people here are so nice and friendly. I find myself making a lot of friends, not only on campus but outside too. I love learning new languages from new people and learning about their culture. When exploring Thailand it can be a lot to take in but it’s totally worth it in the end.” What do you like the most and the least about Hua Hin?

Students from Bhutan “The study experience in Thailand is amazing; there are so many places to visit, so many food varieties to eat, and the people are so nice. We would definitely recommend it to others.” If you’re considering coming to Thailand for your higher studies, here are two important tips from the Webster students: Keep an open mind Learn the Thai language

Abishesh - Nepali “Among the many surprises encountered in Thailand, the most significant was learning how little of Thailand the majority of the foreigners experience. Experiencing the cities and major tourist attractions in Thailand is only a small portion of the country. The majority of Thai’s live in rural country side communities, which are very different from the cities.”

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

“One of the most challenging things about living in a foreign country, particularly non-English speaking countries, is the language barrier. It can cause a lot of misunderstandings and frustrations. Thankfully, it didn’t take very long for me to learn the Thai language. I feel that as long as a person is willing to learn and practice with local residents, Thai is a pretty easy language to pick up.”

Lobsang - Nepali/Spanish “Hua Hin is situated between the hills and the sea and has a very relaxed atmosphere. I like the tranquility that one can find here. What I like least is being mistaken for someone on holiday that that has money to throw money around left, right and centre.”

Then you’ll really enjoy your stay in Thailand!

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18 The Sheraton Earns Management and Environmental Re-Certification

Hua Hin Mayor Admires the Royal Fleet

Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa has proudly announced it has earned ISO 9001 : 2008 Quality Management System and ISO 14001 : 2004 Environmental Management Standard after its re-certification from Intertek Moody International reaffirming the resort’s commitment to quality and demonstrates that environmental matters are of paramount importance.

The Mayor of Hua Hin Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul, along with the chairperson of the Hua Hin Municipality Council, the Deputy Mayor and members of Hua Hin Municipality, recently visited naval ships in the Hua Hin bay. Naval staff also hosted a luncheon for their visitors.

The re-certification is fully in line with resort’s strategy of encouraging a team oriented approach on all business processes focusing on the best interest of its customers, stakeholders, associates, and management. “By establishing a commitment to reduce, reuse and recycle waste and use energy more efficiently, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa is taking an important step towards helping, with similar like-minded organizations, with the future preservation of the environment.” Said Sitthirat Hothongkam, Hotel Manager.

Mr. Nopporn said that the ships safeguarded His Majesty the King when he was staying at the Klai Kangwon Royal Residence several months ago. The ships remain moored about 2 kilometres from the beach. The visitors were welcomed by Rear Admiral Rassadang Theeranet and Commodore Songrit Phojinda.

Dusit Thani Hua Hin Provides Border Patrol Police School with Assistance for Underprivileged Students

Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas Hua Hin Donate Wheelchairs to the Disabled

Banyan Mercedes-Benz Road Cruise 2015 A first-ever event in Hua Hin raising funds for charity

Banyan The Resort, Hua Hin represented by Sirirat Murphy, General Manager, in conjunction with the MercedesBenz Club Thailand represented by Sayam Sethaputra, President, recently organised the Banyan Mercedes-Benz Road Cruise 2015 in Hua Hin. The charity event was a full day of celebrations with a parade of Mercedes Benz luxury sports car by their owners and a display of a Mercedes-Benz SLS sport car. There was also an on-site inspection of a showcase residential suite at Banyan and a visit to the Dog Shelter Foundation under the Royal Patronage of H.M. King Bhumibhol. The Mercedes-Benz Club Thailand donated funds to the Foundation after a charity dinner and fashion show. There was also an auction of paintings by local Hua Hin artist Yuwanan (Pao) Thongho, proprietor of Polung Gallery. Dancing was performed celebrity artist Napakpapha (Mamee) Nakprasitte with entertainment from the ever-popular duo, Byrd and Heart. Monies raised will also be donated to the Hua Hin Hospital to purchase needed beds for in-patients. The Banyan Mercedes-Benz Road Cruise was the first in the Hua Hin community and generated interest and support from the Hua Hin Municipal as well as the Tourism Authority of Thailand and other partners.

Sayam Sethaputra (8th from left back row) President of Mercedes Benz Club (Thailand) and Miguel Jaun (9th from left back row), Resident Manager of Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas Hua Hin, presented a donation of 30 wheelchairs to disabled residents of Prachuab Khirikhan and Petchaburi. The wheelchairs donation was recently held at the Colonial Hall.

Amari Hua Hin Welcomes Malaysian Girl Group M-Girls and their Chinese New Year Album 2015

Management and staff of Dusit Thani Hua Hin recently hosted lunch and donated essential goods, sports equipment and educational materials to all students of Border Patrol Police School Ban Pong Luek, Petchburi.

Congratulations

As part of the hotel’s ongoing project, under the name “Share a Smile Season 2” staff joined students in a range of fun games and educational activities, as well as helping to carry out essential maintenance work in the playground.

New Face in Town at Banyan The Resort, Hua Hin A French national, Mr. Romain Aletru joined the resort on 11th February 2015. He moved to Hua Hin in 2008 for his own French Restaurant and has worked as a Chef Consultant in Hua Hin before. Mr.Romain started his career in hospitality industry in France in 1999. He has worked in restaurants in France, including the Meridien Tahiti restaurant and the Le Nautilus Restaurant in the position of Head Chef.

The Director of Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin M.D. Weerasak Phongphatthanaphan and the Manager of the hospital Ms. Sasiphen Piyasut, presented a gift basket to Pol. Col. Chaiyakorn Srila, the new Superintendent of Hua Hin Police Office.

Annual Multi-Rotary Club Family & Friends Night

General Manager of Amari Hua Hin, Christoph Leonhard (middle), welcomed the popular Malaysian girl group M-Girls when they arrived for the filming of their Chinese New Year album 2015. Each of the girls had a separate interview and photography session at a different location within the hotel, i.e. One-Bedroom Suite, Coral Lounge, Swimming Pool and Hotel lobby. From left: Angeline Khoo Yen Nee, Crystal Ong Shir Ching, Christoph Leonhard, Cass Chin Yan Zi, and Queenzy Cheng Koon Si. Amari Hua Hin subsequently released a Chinese New Year Package so guests can celebrate Chinese New Year with their families and friends amidst the natural beauty of Hua Hin and enjoy a set-menu dinner at Reef Deli or Chinese Buffet Dinner at Aqua Pool Bar on 19 February 2015. Complimentary fresh fruit platter and guaranteed late check-out are also included in this package. The package is available until 29 February 2015, with the rate starting from THB 8,000 per room per two nights’ stay. Book now!

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

Mr.Romain has acquired extensive knowledge and skills to competently lead the kitchen team and further contribute to the success of the Resort.

The Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin held their 4th Annual Multi-Rotary Club Family & Friends Night at the Shoreline Restaurant of the Amari Hua Hin Resort & Spa on 6th February 2015. The evening hosted 253 attendees including Rotarians from many Rotary Clubs in Thailand and from abroad as well as family members and a lot of friends. The evening’s musical entertainment was grooving saxophone and culminated with the rockabilly Ramshackle Band. An international buffet was served at the Amari beach including freeflow wine and beer under the stars.

19 March 2015

The Amarin Outdoor Unlimited International Triathlon 2015 The Amarin Outdoor Unlimited International Triathlon is one of the largest Triathlons in South East Asia with an expected attendance of 600 racers from around the world. The Event will be held on Saturday 14th March 2015 and based at the Naresuan Police Academy Camp in Cha-Am. Eco-friendly and outdoor activities are becoming more and more popular around the world and in Thailand in particular. Now Thailand is experiencing a surge in the numbers of athletes interested in multi-sport and endurance events, as triathlons have become very popular. Events such as the Amarin Outdoor Unlimited International Triathlon raise further the profile of such races, and are becoming major sport attractions in Thailand. The triathlon event is being organized by Active management Asia, a reputable sport event management company specializing in athletic events such as marathons, triathlons, trail running, road & MTB races and adventure races. AMA is operating in Thailand and Southeast Asia.

The new Series consists of 3 Olympic Distance triathlons that will take place in Cha-Am, Bangkok and Pattaya City and will offer a total purse of 2.5 Million Thai Baht in prize money. The Amarin Outdoor Unlimited International Triathlon 2015 event in Cha-Am is the first race part of the Thailand TriLeague Series 2015. For more information and registration: Active Management Asia Tel: (66) 2 718 95 81-2 Fax: (66)2 718 95 83 Email: info@active-asia.com Website: The triathlon www.ama-events.com

Bikinis On The Run

The 2015 Singha Bikini Beach Run will take place again this year on Sunday 15th March 2015 Events of this nature have really taken off across Thailand in recent years and receive appropriate support from tourism authorities and government at all levels. Everyone is encouraged to get fit, with jogging for fun and good health an increasingly common choice of exercise. If you are ready to take that pastime to the next level, the Bikini Beach Run may be the way to go. Check out the website for all the details and registration. Or if you just want to be a ‘bikini spectator’ you’ll need to be at the beach in front of the Long Beach Hotel at 6 AM on the day. www.jogandjoy.com, email: info@JogandJoy.com Tel.02-721-6009, 086-391-4834, 081-867-5262

Bikinis aren’t compulsory, especially for men and you’ll need to be up early to check out the scene. This is an annual event on the Cha-Am beach. Runners will include those who are highly experienced and well trained and those who rarely break into a gallop.

Royal Birthday Bike Challenge

At the top level this will be an international field including runners from African countries (Kenya seems to dominate), Japan, Australia as well as Scandinavian nations.

Anti-Corruption Campaigning In Cha-Am The Phetchaburi Office of Anti-Corruption Commission (OACC) has conducted three training sessions to address corruption. Chaired by the OACC board chairperson Mrs. Amornrat Limthai, the event was attended by the Cha-Am district chief Mr. Phitthaya Wongkraisrithong along with executives of several local administrative offices in Cha-Am, Kaeng Krachan, Khao Yoi and Nong Ya Plong districts. The training project aims to promote transparency of work at all local administrative offices and extend anticorruption networks at those offices. It included lectures on topics such as promoting values individually, institutional, organizational, national, monarchical and religious honesty, family participation in anti-corruption campaigns and how to honour good people.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in collaboration with the private sector, will organize the 2015 ‘Bangkok Bike Thailand Challenge, Princess’ Cup’, in honour of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The race is over a course of 60 kilometres starting and finishing at the Sirindhorn International Environment Park. Director of the TAT Phetchaburi Office Akkarawit Thepprasit said the first Bangkok Bike Thailand Challenge 2015 was scheduled for 5th April 2015 at the Sirindhorn Park in Cha-Am, Phetchaburi Province. The theme of the event was “’60 kilometres, 60 years of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn” to celebrate the Princess’ 60th birthday on 2nd April 2015. The winner will receive a royally-bestowed trophy from HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The competition is now open for applications until 22nd March 2015. www.bangkokbikethailandchallenge.com. HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

20 Beach Sports On A ‘Secret Beach’ the Ban Bang Khwai International All-rounders Holiday destinations around the world, especially those which are a little off the tourist map, have regular visitors who tend to make it their own special place. They return time after time, often just once a year, but the friendships they make can last a lifetime. Springfield Beach, just south of Cha-Am, is not that much of a secret but there are also beaches nearby to the more popular area which are less well known and have been claimed by the regulars as their own special location. We discovered one particular beach where around 30 regular visitors have their own social agenda and have become very innovative about how to amuse themselves and a reason to party. They may indulge in parlor games, perhaps dominos or something more adventurous involving the local horse riders on the beach; we’ll leave that to your imagination! They have a self-styled group name – the ‘Ban Bang Khwai International All-Rounders’. During our visit 20 or more of these regulars had figured out a new form of amusement. We’re not sure whether this was a form of bocce, bowls or pétanque. However

this ‘sport’ was based on the use of …………………. coconuts! The aim was to throw, bowl or somehow get your larger coconut closest to the smaller coconut; lawn bowlers would call that nearest to the ‘jack’. The point of the game was really more about the party with visitors from France, UK, Australians and local Thai people all joining in the rather raucous fun. John and Jean from Australia were declared the winners from a young Thai guy known as Knot in second place,

New Cha-Am Hospitality School To Improve Service Industry Skills

then Frenchman Giles. However the results are still open for appeal and discussions into the night. It’s great to see such simple pleasures on the beach, away from the more commercially oriented attractions, as a way to have such a good time and to fuel their enduring friendships. We hope that these travellers will be able to spend many more happy holidays at their ‘secret beach’, maybe same time year? ……………………………..

Farangs Need to Pass “Thainess” Course To Get Teacher License

The Regent Group yesterday has launched its Bt80-million Regent Cha-am Hospitality School to offer international academic courses that will enhance the skills of Thai professionals so that they can work in the international hospitality industry. The grand opening was presided over by Tourism Minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangku Piyaman Tejapaibul, Executive Director of the hospitality school and managing director of the Regent Cha Am Beach Resort, said the investment in the school project will address the shortage of trained service industry staff. “Over 30 years in this business, we have seen a shortage of Thai hospitality workers,” he said. Although tourism slowed down last year, it is expected to get better this year. One of the keys to achieving sustainable tourism amid increasing global competition is to have good operating staff in the service industry. This will also add to preparations for the Asean Economic Community. Thailand’s expertise in tourism can also be shared with students from all over the world. The group plans to

network with regional hoteliers to open hotel schools nationwide, especially in border provinces, Piyaman said. Auggaphol Brickshawana, Managing Director of Regent Cha-am Hospitality School, said tourism had enjoyed average double-digit growth every year. Thailand has about 13,800 hotels with 550,000 rooms and the supply will continue to rise by 10 per cent annually. This year the industry will need more than 108,000 workers, divided into food service at 35 per cent, housekeeping 25 per cent, food and beverages 25 per cent and front office 15 per cent. This deficiency will continue to rise about 10 per cent each year. The curriculum is designed to enable students to work efficiently at an operating level. The school is confident that once they complete the program, they will have a variety of opportunities in the service industry. The programs are prepared for internationally oriented employment in Asean countries, through a competencybased curriculum.

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

To get a teachers’ license in Thailand, foreigners must now first take a 21-hour course on Thainess and Thai education laws. Prof Dr Paitoon Sinlarat, who heads the Teachers Council of Thailand (TCT), says the course is mandatory for any foreigner who is interested in taking a teaching job here. “We have required them to take this course because Thai culture and theirs are completely different,” he says. According to him, the course is a must even to foreigners who have already got a teacher’s license from their home country. “For those who have already been a licensed teacher in their homeland, they take just the 21-hour course. For those who have never got a license from their homeland, they must take a longer course,” Paitoon explains. He adds that the longer course covers a total of 42 hours, with content spanning from Thainess, to Thai laws, to Thai education concepts, to Thai educational psychology, and to educational evaluation. Paitoon says in the past, only two universities were authorized to conduct such courses. However, the TCT has now decided to make these courses available at more facilities. “Other universities should contact the TCT now if they want to organize such courses. They can even arrange the training in collaboration with schools,” he says. The TCT has made these courses on Thainess mandatory for foreign teachers despite loud complaints from international schools, which lament that the courses make it even harder to recruit foreigners to teaching jobs. To date there has been no mention of costs or the implications for existing teachers to undertake this requirement.

21 Khao Yai National Park’s Access Road Now Closes Earlier Khao Yai national park has closed access to the park at the south entrance from Prachinburi province three hours earlier to alleviate confrontation between wild elephants and motorists. The south entrance at Nern Horm checkpoint in Prachinburi normally closes at 9 pm, but the checkpoint now closes at 6 pm. The closing time is moved forward after patrols by forestry officials on the route still encountered some wild elephants walking and crossing the route. They were seen coming out of the jungles to the road heading for drinking water at Hellnarok waterfall, and also used the road to walk to a place where forestry officials has salinized soil land, about 2-3 kilometres off the road, for wild elephants to eat.

New Ivory Law Takes Effect The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation warned owners of ivory tusks and products made from ivory to report their holdings to the authorities within 90 days as required by the new ivory law. Nipon Chotibal, director-general of the department, said that the new law and the amended wildlife conservation and protection act strictly control the possession and trade in ivory and products made from it and now required owners to report their ivory possessions. The deadline for reporting is April 21st and violators are liable to a fine of up to Bt3 million. In addition, traders of ivory and its products must be licensed by the directorgeneral; or be liable to a jail term of up to three years or a fine of up to Bt6 million. Ivory Importers and exporters must also

seek approval and comply with regulations. Violators are liable to the same degrees of imprisonment and fines. Laws and regulations have been amended defining African elephants as protected animals in order to block the trade in African ivory. The amendment requires ivory registration to include elephants’ DNA and microchip data to prevent foreign ivory from being disguised as domestic ivory. The improved controls on ivory incorporated recommendations of the Standing Committee of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Thailand is required to respond by March; otherwise, its wildlife and wild plant trade worth at least Bt47 billion a year would be boycotted, Mr Nipon said.

Explaining Scandinavian Death Statistics In Thailand During the last 5 years more Swedes and Norwegians have died in Thailand, while the death of Danes seems to be somewhat constant. A rising number of deaths do not seem to correspond with the number of Scandinavian visitors to Thailand, so the explanation is to be found elsewhere. Despite a decrease in Swedish visitors in Thailand from 2013 to 2014, the number of Swedes that died in the country rose with 26 percent. According to Senior Consular Officer at the Swedish Embassy in Bangkok Par Kageby this is because more Swedes live in Thailand and these residents are growing older. “If you go back 5 years then 70 percent of the (Swedish) deaths were accidents and 30% percent were natural. In 2014, 70 percent of the deaths were due to natural causes,” he says. The total number of Scandinavian deaths in 2014 went up to 270 from 245 deaths in 2013. During the last five years Norway like Sweden has experienced a steady growth in deaths, from 68 Norwegian deaths in 2010 to 102 in 2014. In 2014 a total of 58 Danes died in Thailand, two less than the year before. “It’s almost, always some sort of disease; last year we experienced one suicide and one fatal traffic accident and the rest died of natural causes,” the Danish Consul said..

An Extra Holiday on 4th May The cabinet has declared Monday May 4th as an additional public holiday, enabling state officials to have a long holiday from May 2-5, while the private sector will enjoy longer five days in a row from May 1-5. The cabinet said the extra holiday on Monday May 4th was to stimulate local tourism and spending by the people during the long holiday from May 2 to May 5 which is Coronation Day, a public holiday. For the private sector, Friday May 1st is National Labour Day and is a holiday, but not for the public sector. The extra public

holiday on May 4th will give public sector employees a five day long holiday from May 1 till May 5. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has directed its provincial offices to cooperate with travel agencies to come up with special packages to encourage Thais to travel during the long holiday. TAT deputy governor Anuparb Theerarat said the target of travel packages should be youngsters, and state enterprise and private sector employees who will enjoy the new long holiday.

Khao Yai national park chief Kanchit Srinoppawan said the park has already notified authorities of four provinces adjoining the national park areas, namely Saraburi, Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi and Nakhon Ratchasima to inform tour companies and tourists about the time change.

The Norwegian Embassy statistics show that, 64 percent of Norwegian deaths are over 60 years old and some 98 percent are men. 75 percent of them have other insurance policies than travel insurances. According to Brita Ve Magnusson, Counsellor at the Norwegian Embassy’s Consular and Administrative Section, this might indicate that they live in Thailand. In all it looks like most of the Norwegians that die in Thailand are elderly men that reside in the country. Last year only 2 of the Norwegians who died in Thailand were women, and none of them died of natural causes,” Brita Ve Magnusson added that last year some 12 percent of the Norwegian deaths were caused by drowning- and traffic accidents. Nobody knows how many Scandinavians live in Thailand It is not easy to calculate t how many Swedes live in Thailand. 379 Swedes have registered themselves at the Swedish Embassy, but Par Kageby estimates that

the population is 10,000 to 15,000 and growing. Brita Ve Magnusson can’t say what the total number of Norwegians who resides here might be. The Danish embassy does not want to make an estimate, because they “do not stand a chance to guess the number, when there is no requirement to register”. One of the main sources to the estimates is the number of people that goes to the embassies and consulates to apply for a special certificate they need to get a 1 year visas for Thailand. Par Kageby thinks the current estimate of Swedish residents in Thailand might be conservative. “If you compare how many people die here with the number of certificates we do and see that the number of Swedes that travel to Thailand has gone down the last two years, while the number of our consular cases is still increasing. So it is not about how many people come to Thailand but the number of Swedes who lives here,” Par Kageby. “When you compare the number of people that die with the number of certificates we make, something doesn’t add up.” No one is required to register at their embassy when they move to Thailand. But in the unlikely event of a disaster it is difficult for the embassies to know where to find and help people. This has been an issue for Sweden before. A slow and inadequate handling of the 2004 Tsunami in Thailand, where more than 500 Swedes died, was considered one of the main reasons for the Foreign Minister Laila Frievald’s 2006 resignation. According to Par Kageby the lack of information will be challenging the Swedish Embassy in the case of a new catastrophe. “If a natural disaster happened somewhere in the northeast of Thailand, we don’t have a clue how many Swedish people live there, if it is 2 or 150 people we are looking for,” Par Kageby says. HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

15th Mini Marathon in Phetchaburi Phra Jom Klao Hospital in cooperation with the Phetchaburi Runnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Club has organised the 15th Mini Marathon to promote a healthy lifestyle, announced the Hospital Director Dr. Sathit Rattanasrithong. The event will be held at 6 a.m. on Sunday, 8 March 2015, at Ratchapruek Building, Phra Jom Klao Hospital.

The route will start from the Phra Jom Klao Hospital to Phra Nakhon Khiri or Khao Wang and end at Ram Ratchaniwet Palace. Dr Jet Siratharanon, a member of the National Legislation Assembly, will chair the opening ceremony and participate in the mini marathon with distinguished guests. Participants will be grouped together according their age and gender. The types of competition are 10.5 kilometre mini marathon; the 4.4 kilometre fun run and the 4 kilometre healthy run. Registration fees for the first and second competitions is 250 THB and 200 THB respectively and free for the shorter runs. Winners of the competitions will receive trophies of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn while the rest of the participants will be given souvenirs from the organisers. Those interested in participating in the event should attend the 1st floor of Phikhanesuansurasangkat Building, Phra Jom Klao Hospital. For more information, please contact the Information Division of Phra Jom Klao Hospital at tel. 032 709 999.

23 Syriza: Greek Hope Under Tsipras

“Hope is on the way!” – In the most inspired and defiant of voices, a thundering echo was heard in front of the headquarters of the Coalition of the Radical Left the night of the 25th of January. by Lobsang

The exhilarated crowd savoured an electoral victory that “wrote history”. These were the words of Alexis Tsipras, leader of the winning party (better know by its acronym Syriza) and Greece’s pragmatic new Prime Minister. Tsipras isn’t your average classic politician. The man from Athens has climed the Greek political ladder with a clear intention to protect a very ragged economy and demoralised population. Gone are the days where Hellenic politicians had the pre-scheduled agenda of going to Brussels in order to look at everybody with puppy eyes. Tsipras strives for more than to merely come back with a bail-out out in one hand and a bag of asphyxiating austerity measures on the other. It’s no wonder that his election has caused more than one headache around Europe. One of those heads is British Prime Minister David Cameron’s, who assured that Syriza’s victory would “increase economic uncertainty across Europe.” The other heads belong to EuroGroup President Jeroen Dijsselbloem, IMF director Christine Lagarde and ECB president Mario Draghi – Greece’s owes 76% of its debt to them, and all of them now fear a lack of Greek compliance they did not have to contend with under Antonis Samaras.

Syriza is ready to contest the rule of the Troika’s (European Commission, IMF and ECB) original bail-out management plans. The party is seen as the salvation of a populace that have been living with water up to their necks. The numbers Syriza is looking at are not exactly positive: a debt of 323 billion euros, 175% over Greek GDP, unemployment of 25%, a growth rate three digits below zero and deadlines looming for the repayment of its loans. The new government’s innitial objective is to provide a Ten-Point reform plan in order to overhaul a 30% of its bail-out obligations. Syriza believes that much of the empoverished terms Greece finds iself under are the result of unfair and badly negotiated lending conditions to which former leader Samaras complacently agreed to. The conditions aren’t exactly in Tsipras’ favour and at the end of the day; his country does as of now depend entirely on the Troika’s support. The 28th of February sees the end of the current loan program and Syriza are not about to pen down a new deal under the same terms. They have four months to find an alternative to “a committee built on rotten foundations.” – Words straight out of Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis’ mouth – He was indeed referring to the

Troika. In June, the nation must theoretically pay the ECB 3.5 billion euros worth of bonds. It’s looking bleak. Despite this, Tsipras has taken a stand; almost daringly so some would think, as countries like Germany wonder how the man has the effrontery to do so in light of the aforementioned economic figures. The president of the Bundesbank Jens Weidmann, warned about this in advanced as he recommended Syriza to “not make promises it cannot keep and the country cannot afford.” But others would understand that Tsipras has nothing to lose, and that it’s probably about time to ease the knot around Greek necks. The Prime Minister wants to lift Hellas out of the economic nightmare, but he doesn’t want to choke under foreign direction in the process. Banners and posters said it loud and clear during the night of Syriza’s victory: “All we are saying is… Give Greece a chace”. Now we remain to see if conditions will really be eased under Tsipras and if the key to recovery is to let the Greeks breath a little. After all, how can a suffocated nation offer anything of itself?

The Eurozone Incognito Many readers may be aware, since the numbers have been warning us; but this past month we received confirmation. The Eurozone is treading dangerously, hovering over the fine line. It only recently floated above figures from after the great recession and European financial crisis. January’s sudden devaluation of the single currency can only be looked at with uncertainty both by investors and the European Central Bank (ECB), as the Euro continues a downward spiral. There are explanations for this. The main culprit is oil prices which are down by over half in comparison to mid-2014. The tags on energy have also taken a sharp downturn of 9% this past month; and in an overall comparison to last year, we see prices have fallen by 0.6%. For many these figures mean little, we can put them into perspective. Europe as a single currency union has experienced this type of deflation only once in its past history. I write “history” almost daringly, as the consequences of the 2008 financial crisis are still haunting some of its PIGS economies today (Portugal, Italy, Greece and Spain). In 2009 we saw the only other example of figures this fragile. What ensued as we know, were years of hardship, bank crashes and long unemployment lines. The ECB has tried indeed to counter these measures by pumping in flows of cash. In an effort to uplift the current devaluation, it recently provided an influx of 1 trillion Euros into the economy. The hope was to uplift prices and slow down the rate of deflation, through what is known as quantitative easing. The move has not been immediately effective – or perhaps it’s too early to tell. But at the beginning of February, we still saw growth in important nations such as Germany, France, Austria, Italy the Netherlands, Spain and the usual suspects Greece; at its lowest since June of 2013. Does this mean we’re at the edge of another period

of sustained recession? The answer is probably no, as the numbers do seem to have stabilised in past weeks – at least temporarily. We are however, at the edge of many questions being asked in concern about the Euro’s stability as a reliable currency, particularly by nations who are already skeptical of their European Union (EU) Membership. The main one to stand out is the United Kingdom (UK). The Pound sterling’s value soared to the highest in seven years above the wavering Euro, something that may seem appealing to the public, but appalling to businesses. This is because whilst vacations for the British might end up costing less, British firms who rely on their exports to mainland Europe might pay the ultimate price. Trade is bound to weaken, investments fall and the sense of insecurity increase. Summed up; profits drop. This combined with the rise in popularity of the United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP) at the dawn of upcoming British elections; this is something that’s making Brussels tremble. The Eurozone needs the money the UK provides it with. Greece is another example of the Euro’s turbulent unison. Whilst the debt-ridden economy might not be in a position to make many demands, Alexis Tsipras’ rejuvenated government is not about to beg for mercy. The charismatic young leader is looking Germany, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the ECB in the eye and negotiating alternative means for the repayment of his country’s debt. All this capped off with rumours of a possible EU exit. The Eurozone is in no position to let countries take the high road and go their own way, especially if it is to uphold a now tarnished reputation regarding its cohesion as a currency union. So what does this mean for the euro’s future? Is this the commencement of dissolution? Times are uncertain, but this is unlikely, largely due to the cost of respective

nations going back to Marks, Pesetas, Liras or Drachmas. Furthermore, recessions do not always mean that growth cannot take place. The example is Spain, where an increase in productivity was witnessed in last year’s fourth quarter in spite of prices falling the year-round. So it can be done, all in spite of the internal disputes and the shaking EU infrastructure and monetary instability at large. It remains to be seen what direction the current situation takes. It may be some time before there is some clarity. For at the moment there are many unpredictable variables. Beyond the seemingly pessimistic short-term figures of the economy a sequel to the 2008 financial crisis can be ruled out. Only the next few months will provide us with a definite answer to the Eurozone Incognito. (Caption for picture) The Euro’s value has been gradually falling in 2014 and plunged against the pound last month, in what signified the highest difference since the 2008 financial crisis. Source: XE By: Lobsang Dundup Sherpa Subirana HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

1824Events & promotions Calendar SUN

Putahracsa Hua Hin Sunday BBQ Brunch. A garden BBQ brunch with a beautiful open air setting with live music. Enjoy a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails, free flow of wine and sparkling wine. Every Sunday from 12.001500 hours. @1,300 THB net/ person; 600 THB net for children age 6-10 years.

MON

Dusit Thani Hua Hin Buffet Cavery Night @ The Restaurant 1,150++ THB, from 18.30 – 2200 hours. Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin: Wagya Beef & Friends, every Monday, from 1900 to 22.30 hours. At Palm Restaurant, 1,400 THB ++ per person.

TUE

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin Culinary Treasures of Japan Every Tuesday, from 1900 to 22.30 hours. At Hagi Japanese Restaurant. 1,400 THB ++ per person. Cape Nidhra Hua Hin Hotel Every Tuesday at The Rock Restaurant Seafood Buffet 1,300 THB net per person, 19:00 to 22:00 hours.

WED

Banyan Golf Hua Hin 11th March Power Tee Competition Tee Time 1200 hours. 2,100 THB per person inclusive of caddy snack following the game. Golf carts are option at 750 THB (1 person) Dusit Thani Hua Hin Buffet Pasta Factory @ San Marico Italian Restaurant 1,150++ THB. From 18.30 – 22:00 hours.

THU

Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa: Baan Thalia shares a love for Italy and a passion for good food and award winning wines. A six course Italian menu at March Wine Dinner on12th March from 1900 to 22:00 hours. 1,800 THB nett per person. Guest of Honour and Host; Claudio Viberti – Winemaker Viberti

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin The ‘Heritage’ Afternoon Tea Buffet, every Sunday, from 1500 to 1800 hours. At The Museum Coffee & Tea Corner. 700 THB ++ per person.

Dusit Thani Hua Hin Buffet Cavery Night @ The Restaurant 1,150++ THB, from 18:30 – 22:00 hours. Ley Cafe’ Pranburi Every day Pizza Buy 1 Get 1 Free

The Palm Bistro Beer & Wine Bar: A La Carte Sunday Roast from 1300 to 17.30 hours, starts at 300 THB ++

Hyatt Regency Hua Hin Shashlik & gourmet burger by the poolside, every Tuesday at You & Mee Restaurant from 18.30 10 22.30 hours. Enjoy the all you can eat kebabs, specialities burgers, appetising salads and dessert from the grill, accompanied with free flow Singha beer and live music. 1,200 THB net per person, including 2 hours free flow Singha beer, 800 THB net, 400 THB net per child aged 6-12.

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin Thai Temple Fair, every Wednesday, from 1900 to 22.30 hours. At Suan Bua Thai Restaurant, 1,200 THB ++ per person.

SAT

Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa: Every Friday night a culinary journey through Asia at InAzia Restaurant. From sushi, tempting salads and appetizers to delicate soups and curries. Main dishes prepared in traditional Asian cooking styles with a delightful dessert and fruit selection. From 18:00 to 22:00 hours, 1,200 THB net per person.

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin Provence on a Plate, every Saturday, 1900 to 20.30 hours at Railway Restaurant. 1,650 THB ++ per person. The Chocolate High Tea Buffet every Saturday, from 1500 to 18:00 hours at The Museum Coffee & Tea Corner. 700 THB ++ net per person

The Market Cafe & Bar Hua Hin: Free Flow Friday Nights – 18:00 TO 20:00 HOURS, includes one set of Tapas. 399 THB per person.

The Market Cafe & Bar Hua Hin Every Wednesday Live Jazz from 1900 to 2200 hours.

FRI

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin Mediterranean Fiesta every Thursday, from 1900 to 22.30 hours at Railway Restaurant. 1,200 THB ++ per person. Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa: Baan Thalia shares a love for Italy and a passion for good food and award winning wines. A six course Italian menu at March Wine Dinner on12th March from 1900 to 22:00 hours. 1,800 THB nett per person. Guest of Honour and Host; Claudio Viberti – Winemaker Viberti

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin: Friday 13th March, join the concert of the year “Biggles Big Band Amsterdam” while enjoying a wide variety of Crustaceans & Swimmers Buffet Dinner selection by the Colonial Pool at 1,900 THB ++ per person. Buffet opens at 19:00 and performance starts at 20:00 hours.

Hilton Hua Hin Resort and Spa International BBQ Seafood Buffet with dishes including salmon, king crab, rock lobster and tiger prawns every Saturday night at The Market Restaurant. 1,200 THB. Nett per person from 18.30 to 20:00 hours.

Dusit Thani Hua Hin Buffet BBQ Seafood @ The Restaurant 1,300++ THB. From 18:30 – 22:00 pm.

Hyatt Regency Hua Hin & The Barai Sunday Brunch at McFarland House beachfront bar and café, served from 11.30 to 1500 hours. 1,800 THB net per person inclusive of a bottle of sparkling wine per two persons, home-made lemonade and iced tea. 1,500 THB net per person inclusive of home-made lemonade and iced tea. 750 THB net per child aged 6-12.

Dusit Thani Hua Hin Buffet Cavery Night @ The Restaurant 1,150++ THB, from 18:30 – 22:00 hours. Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin: Wagya Beef & Friends, every Monday, from 19:00 to 22:30 hours. At Palm Restaurant, 1,400 THB ++ per person.

Dusit Thani Hua Hin Buffet Cavery Night @ The Restaurant 1,150++ THB, from 18.30 – 2200 hours. Putahracsa Hua Hin Best value in a 5-Star Spa any 90 minutes Massage from our Spa Menu; 2 hours: @1,799 THB net/person.

Anantasila Villa by the Sea Antipasta night 450 THB ++

Dusit Thani Hua Hin Buffet Sunday Lunch @ The Restaurant 850++ THB. From 12.00 to 1500 hours.

Hyatt Regency Hua Hin Shashlik & gourmet burger by the poolside, every Tuesday at You & Mee Restaurant from 18.30 10 22.30 hours. Enjoy the all you can eat kebabs, specialties burgers, appetising salads and dessert from the grill, accompanied with free flow Singha beer and live music. 1,200 THB net per person, including 2 hours free flow Singha beer, 800 THB net, 400 THB net per child aged 6-12.

Banyan Golf Hua Hin 11th March Power Tee Competition Tee Time 1200 hours. 2,100 THB per person inclusive of caddy snack following the game. Golf carts are option at 750 THB (1 person) The Market Cafe & Bar Hua Hin Every Wednesday Live Jazz from 1900 to 2200 hours.

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin Thai Temple Fair, every Wednesday, from 1900 to 22.30 hours. At Suan Bua Thai Restaurant, 1,200 THB ++ per person

Inter Continental Hua Hin Resort Buffet Thai food at Pirom Thai Restaurant 18_30 to 22.30 hours, 690 THB net.

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin Mediterranean Fiesta every Thursday, from 19:00 to 22:30 hours at Railway Restaurant. 1,200 THB ++ per person.

Inter Continental Hua Hin Resort: Japanese food buffet at Rim Talay Restaurant 18:30 to 22:30 hours, 899 THB net. The Market Cafe & Bar Hua Hin: Friday Nights Free Flow Wine & Tapas Promotion Friday from 1800 to 2000 hours. Includes one set of tapas - Only 399 THB per person. Our featured wine for the promotion is from Spain - Finca de Malpica Red - Cabernet Sauvignon and White - Sauvignon Blanc.

Putahracsa Hua Hin March 14th, 18:30 – 20:30 hrs, “Tapas and Wine Party on the Beach”. Free flow of White wine, Red wine and Sparkling wine. Tapas Buffet. Price: 899++ THB/ person. Music by DJ Bond.

Dusit Thani Hua Hin Buffet Thai Market Night @ Ban Benjarong Thai Restaurant 990++ THB. From 18.30 – 22.00 pm.

Hilton Hua Hin Resort and Spa Pizza and Pasta Buffet. Enjoy homemade pizza, pasta and sauces, fresh salads and many more delicacies at Italian Market Night 750 THB. Nett per person 1,300 THB. Nett per person ( Include soft drinks, Local Beer and House wine). Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am Beach Resort & Spa Friday-SEAFOOD BASKET. Fresh seafood selection served in a fisherman basket. Only 990 THB net for two.

Banyan Golf Hua Hin 28th March Golf & Wine Dinner 4,300 THB per person inclusive of green free, caddie and wine dinner golf cart optional at THB 750 ( 1 person) 2,200 THB dinner only. Banyan The Resort Hua Hin 28th March Big Bike Mascarade. Aa talent show from a big bike expert, dance performance and a sumptuous international buffet. From 1900 hours; ticket price 1,500 THB per person.

Anantasila Villa by the Sea: Seafood night 690 THB +

EVERY DAY

PHONE NUMBERS

Putahracsa Hua Hin Best value in a 5-Star Spa any 90 minutes Massage from our Spa Menu; 2 hours: @1,799 THB net/ person.

Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa: 032 520 250

The Market Cafe & Bar Hua Hin: 081 174 4647

Banyan Golf Hua Hin: 032 616200

Putahracsa Hua Hin: 032 531 470

Oceanside Pizza Try the selection of traditional as well as creative pizzas. From simple to funky starting at 380 THB net/person, available throughout March.

Banyan The Resort Hua Hin: 032 538 888

Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am Beach Resort & Spa: 032 708 300

Ley Cafe’ Pranburi Every day Pizza Buy 1 Get 1 Free

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

Dusit Thani Hua Hin: 032 520 009 Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin: 032 512 021 Hilton Hua Hin Resort and Spa: 032 538 999

Ley Café Pranburi: 032 630 564

Manacha Interior Design Services

Interior Design including contemporary, vintage, classic and modern styles. All furnishing requirements, including built-in furniture and appliances.

Call Khun Monica to arrange a home consultation with full design services. Stylish furniture and fittings create a memorable setting to enjoy with your family and friends Supply of Curtains & Sofas. Make your house a home with style, function and organisation. Whether furnishing a new home or apartment, updating your home, or purchasing new furniture and fittings, receive experienced advice, coordination and factory direct costs. Thai, English and Swedish language communications.

Contact Mobile: 0874 680 744 Email: monica23sthlm@gmail.com Home Office: Natural Hill 2 Village. Head west on Chomsin Road (Soi Hua Hin 70) and follow the signs for Pala-U. Soon after passing the Hua Hin Art Village (Baan Sillapin), turn left at the signs for Natural Hill Village. Ask at the gate for Khun Monica or phone her to meet.

Why 49:51 Foreigner and Thai percentage of Shares in a Company?

Govt. Bans Alcohol Sales at Bus Terminals and ‘By the Roadside’

Many Foreigners were wondering and asking the above question of their Lawyer when they set up a Company to carry out their business in Thailand. In fact Foreigners can own more than 49% of Shares in a Company but they have to get approval and a licence from the Ministry of Commerce in compliance with the provision of the Alien Business Act. Generally businesses concerning Industrial / Manufacturing of goods for export / BOI (Board of Investment) promoted businesses or contract of large investment with the government, which can easily get approval and obtain Alien Business Licence from the Ministry of Commerce under Alien Business Act. Other than the said businesses, it is a complicated and costly process when applying for approval and licence and it is very unlikely approval will be given. That’s why the Lawyer advises his Foreign Client to set up a Thai Company with 49:51 Foreigner and Thai percentage of Shares in a company; this is to get Thai national away from the control of the Alien Business Act. Another reason is a restriction in the Land Code that prohibits Foreigner or Alien Company to own land so that the 49:51 Thai Company is used to own land.

www.actahuahin.com actahuahin@gmail.com +66 (0)92 427 3344

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

According to a National News Bureau of Thailand report, the Department of Land Transport has imposed the ban of alcohol sale by the roadside and in bus terminals nationwide. Violators will face a fine of 10,000 baht or a six-month jail term. The report states that the Director General Theerapong Rawdprasert, the Office of the Prime Minister has recently promulgated the law banning alcohol sales in public places, which include areas along the roadside and pavements. Moreover, selling and drinking of alcohol beverages will be prohibited at all bus terminals. The statement begs the question in relation to the thousands of ‘by the roadside’ shops including Seven Elevens nationwide. It could be argued that virtually all alcohol sales are made ‘by the roadside’. The laws appear to be specifically targeting transport terminals;

however the ambiguity of the description given by the Bureau has inevitably lead to bemusement by online forum contributors. The Department has also stepped up its monitoring of drivers of public transport. They will from now on be subjected to random alcohol test periodically. Drivers behind the wheels who are found to have over 0 milligram percent of alcohol in their bodies will be taken off the road and face a fine of up to 10,000 THB and/or a three-month jail term. The move is seen as the Thai government’s latest effort to cut the number of traffic accidents often caused by drivers under the influence. Locally the number of alcohol checks has been notably increased. Cha-Am residents have seen almost nightly stoppage points on Narathip road targeting drivers leaving nearby bar and restaurant venues.

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

28 It’s A Great Day For The Irish Saint Patrick’s Day is 17th March each year. On St. Patrick’s Day it is customary to wear shamrocks and/ or green clothing or accessories (the “wearing of the green”). This is the date of the death of the most commonly-recognised patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick ( c. AD 385–461).

‘Eat, Stay, Play, Relax’ SeenSpace Hua Hin Is Coming Soon Construction is now underway of a new ‘lifestyle mall in Hua Hin. ‘SeenSpace’ will offer shopping and much more right on the beachfront, opening up to a vista across the ocean. SeenSpace Hua Hin is due to open within the 3rd quarter of 2015. Here are some comments about the ideas behind SeenSpace Hua Hin from Managing Director, Khun Akaradej Pantisoontorn. “A few years after the opening of the boutique mall ‘Seenspace 13’ at Thonglor, Bangkok in 2011 we have grasped and sharpened our knowledge about lifestyle malls. We have a better understanding about our location, our visitors and our clients. We then came up with the idea of accomplishing another SeenSpace; one in a location that is different from Thonglor, that incorporates open space and fresh air, along with abundant and sensational activities. Most importantly a lifestyle mall that will have a phenomenal atmosphere. With the bright blue sky and light serene sea breezes, the city of Hua Hin is the ideal location for the next SeenSpace.

But was St Patrick really Irish? Kidnapped by Irish raiders from a village somewhere else in the British Isles at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. He escaped but returned later to convert the Irish to Christianity. By the time of his death on March 17, 461, he had established monasteries, churches, and schools. Many legends grew up around him—for example, that he drove the snakes out of Ireland and used the shamrock (a three leaved plant) to explain the Trinity to the pagan Irish. What began as a religious feast day for the patron saint of Ireland has become an international festival celebrating Irish culture and the ‘Emerald Islands’ with parades, dancing, special foods and Irish music. Anywhere in the world, including Thailand, if there are Irish or would-be Irish in town, you’ll find shamrocks, drinking (even green beer!) and always lots of green. Footnote: The St. Patrick’s Society is one of the oldest social communities in Bangkok. It’s mission is to promote the cultural, social & educational values of the Irish people.

International Women’s Day 2015 ‘MAKE IT HAPPEN’

All around the world, International Women’s Day on March 8th represents an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women while calling for greater equality. ‘Make It Happen’ is the 2015 theme to encourage effective action for advancing and recognising women. Each year International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated on March 8th. The first International Women’s Day was held in 1911. Thousands of events occur to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women. Organisations, governments, charities, educational institutions, women’s groups, corporations and the media celebrate the day. Various organisations identify their own International Women’s Day theme, specific to their local context and interests. Many charities, NGOs and Governments also adopt a relevant theme or campaign to mark the day. For example, organisations like the UN, Oxfam, Women for Women, Care International, Plan, World Association of Girl Guides & Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) and more - run exciting and powerful campaigns that raise awareness and encourage donations for good causes.

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

Hua Hin has always be a popular city for Thai and foreign visitors to visit with beautiful beaches and a short 2 hour drive from Bangkok. We will soon see SeenSpace at the Hua Hin beach with open-air spaces right next to the ocean where visitors enjoy delicious food, coffee shops, bars and much more. SeenSpace Hua Hin will be an astounding destination for visitors. With its long history, Hua Hin has always been compelling and classy. Today with world class hotels, resorts and spas, more than five millions tourists visit Hua Hin each year. More than 4,500 units of luxury residential project and condos will soon be completed and more than 20,000 foreigners own their vacation houses in the area. In the near future, Hua Hin will become even more accessible for visitors by having high speed trains coming from Bangkok, direct flights to both international airports and ferries coming from Pattaya.

SeenSpace Hua Hin is Coming

SeenSpace will be located on the beachfront near Soi 35 on 7,200 square metres of beautiful land; easily accessible from both Soi 35 and Soi 29. There will be fantastic ocean views with Royal naval ships to be seen, especially at sunset when decorating lights illuminating the ships. The simple concept is: ‘EAT STAY PLAY RELAX’. These are the four core activities used to design the Seenspace Hua Hin spaces and forms.”

SeenSpace 13 Thonglor Bangkok

3,000 Heart Reviving Devices Will Be Installed in Public Places The Ministry of Public Health is planning to install 3,000 heart defibrillators in public areas, citing heart attacks as the third leading cause of death in the Kingdom. Public Health Minister Somsak Chunharas, says 54,000 Thais die of cardiac arrest each year. The machines, also known as Automatic External Defibrillators (AED), will be installed in cities, remote areas and in island communities. The installation phase will be completed within three years

and is expected to save lives. National health statistics reveal that heart failure kills an average of six people per hour. Half of the patients taken to hospital are pronounced dead before they can receive medical attention. Dr. Somsak claimed the defibrillators are user-friendly and could increase survival rates by 45%. Cardiac arrest usually occurs in people suffering from diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.

30 Get Your Motor Running’

“Get your motor runnin’, head out on the highway; Lookin’ for adventure and whatever comes our way.” (Steppenwolf, 1969) If you were really ‘Born to be Wild’, you may not be satisfied just buzzing around town on an auto scooter. Taking to the open road and really experiencing the thrills (not the spills) of a big bike maybe for you. Here are some of the ‘big boys’ just to whet your appetite.

Kawasaki Ninja 650R

The faired Kawasaki Ninja 650R, also known as the ER-6f, and its un-faired sister model Kawasaki ER-6n were introduced in 2006 by Kawasaki. They are middleweight, parallel-twin engined motorcycles, designed for normal use on paved roads. They have modern styling and features, with low-seating ergonomics, a low center of gravity, and respectable, manageable power output. The design was intended to appeal to a wide-ranging audience from newcomers to seasoned riders. The engine is relatively unusual in employing a 180 degree crankshaft. This results in an uneven firing interval (180 degrees, 540 degrees) which gives the engine note a distinctive “throbbing” quality.

Honda CBR500-R

With the introduction of the CBR500-R, Honda boldly redefines the middleweight class and infuses a whole new level of excitement for sport riders in search of superior value, along with great fun. The CBR500-R delivers plenty of performance to sport riders, with its thoroughly modern, torquey 500cc P-twin DOHC engine wrapped in a great-handling chassis and featuring a full fairing spawned from Honda’s muchacclaimed CBR600-RR and CBR1000RR sportbikes.

Suzuki engineered the Hayabusa to perform like a heavyweight boxermuscular yet surprisingly agile. While riders rarely need to call on its full punch off the line, the overabundant power and fleet-footed performance inspire confidence in everyday riding. That restrained yet refined energy is the presence that turns heads when a Hayabusa and rider pass. Hayabusa is equally at home on the highway or city streets. The low center of gravity that lets it conquer winding roads also makes Hayabusa a nimble urban predator. The Hayabusal comes equipped with Brembo Monobloc highperformance calipers and an Antilock Brake System. These features are sure to appeal to lone riders cruising the highway as well as touring couples.

The further enhanced Dynamic Traction Control on the HP4 supplements this perfectly. It can be finely adjusted in Slick mode to dial in the perfect balance between system support and rider control. The result is transparent feedback, maximum traction and optimum acceleration.

The objective was to create a vehicle that exceeded the expectations of customers based on a new technological platform, focused on electronics and its fundamental contribution improving power delivery of the engine and driving dynamics on the road and on the track. All this combined with a thorough review of the engine to provide competitive performance.

KTM Adventure 1198 R

Yamaha YZF-R1M

Ducati Superbike 1299 Panigale S

The latest generation of Ducati Superbikes builds upon engineering and design solutions introduced on the 1199, rendering the concept of the Superbike for the road still more extreme. The new 1299 Panigale has more torque, it's more powerful and responsive than the 1199, the bike it replaces, while at the same time it's easier and safer to ride thanks to the use of innovative solutions devised by Ducati Corse, to allow everyday fans to experience the technology of world champions. The 1299 Panigale has the Superquadro, the most advanced and powerful twincylinder engine produced on the planet, which is made even more extreme by pistons with a diameter of 116 mm. The motorcycle has evolved in terms of chassis set-up too: the innovative monocoque chassis now has a steering head angle of 24° to guarantee increased agility when cornering, while the fork pivot is 4 mm lower allowing for increased rear traction in a variety of situation

From the advanced MotoGP inspired electronics package and crossplane crankshaft engine layout as the factor M1, to its carbon fiber components and Ohlins electronic syspesion, the line between Supersport bike and factory MotoGP M1 have never been more blurred. Based on the all new R1 the incredible R1M is the pinnacle of Yamaha's pure racing technology. It provides a riding experience like nothing before it. Power delivery is very linear and controllable with our comprehensive YRC electronic controls. Add in premium features including an Ohlins Electronic Racing Suspension, lightweight carbon fiber bodywork and the new Communication Control Unit that is both a data logger and data setting tool, you have a machine that is destined to improve racing skills and results.

Suzuki Hayabusa GSX1300R The lightest 4-cylinder engine in the segment provides uncompromising power with an output of 193 bhp and a maximum torque of 83 lb/ft. The new exhaust silencer provides a higher level of torque in the mid-range, so there is power available where it's needed most to deliver stunning lap times. With the world's first ever dynamic suspension system DDC (Dynamic Damping Control), the HP4 is the

At 148 horsepower, significantly more powerful than anything on the market (barring KTM’s own upcoming 1290 Adventure), the Adventure R is a big bike and a physical ride. It’s the most dirt-focused of all the big Adventure machines, with 21 and 18-inch spoked wheels and chunky knobby tires as standard. It’s also KTM’s technology flagship, with the 2015 model sporting lean-angle sensitive traction control and Cornering ABS.

Triumph America

This vertical twin is a true original. Drawing on Triumph heritage from fifties and sixties parallel twins and coupling that with modern technology and build standards, the engine in the America has a laid-back riding character that’s unique to the cruiser world. The unique and comprehensive technology of the F4 RR ABS has been extended to the version F4 ABS , which also shares several aesthetic and functional innovations.

The CBR500-R offers a riding position that’s a touch more sporting, but not too aggressive, whether you’re commuting or carving the mountain roads.

The KTM’s Adventure 1198 R is probably the most extreme adventure motorcycle you can buy. At 148 horsepower, it’s considerably more powerful than anything else in the big enduro market, and at 230 kg (507 lbs) with a tank of fuel, it’s actually quite light for a big-bore adventure bike. Make no mistake though, it’s an intimidating ride.

MV Agusta F4

BMW HP4

The CBR500-R features a full bodywork cowl and a 31-inch seat height.

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

most advanced production sporting motorcycle ever built. DDC automatically adapts the suspension damping to the situation at hand. Various modes are available to choose from: Rain and Sport for public roads, Race and Slick for the race track.

These include a re-proportioned and lighter “signature” four exit silencer, new lightweight wheels and a new front spoiler integrated into the front fairing with DRL (Daylight Running Lights) that enhance the design, as well as the new tail light incorporating light guide technology. All complemented with completely new graphics and colors. These elements make the new F4 ABS more advanced than ever before, yet with total respect for the history of this iconic machine.

Straight away people notice the America’s unmistakably British style. Its pair of cylinders stand upright and proud and make a powerful statement. And, being air-cooled there’s no radiator to spoil the view. An engine like this is about more than just the numbers. It’s about the way it feels. It responds to the throttle obediently, allowing you to accelerate confidently. And Triumph has carefully modulated its vibration levels to allow you to connect with the ride without it becoming intrusive on long trips. Then there’s the off-beat 270-degree firing interval and mellow soundtrack that gives substance to the America’s cruiser styling for a bike that sounds, looks and, above all, feels amazing.

Classifieds 31 Hot Deal For Condo Sale

Baan Sanploen Asian Trails has its Head Office in Bangkok, Thailand with other offices located in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar and Vietnam. The company operates under the brand of Asian Trails. Overall there are 33 offices in 8 countries in Asia.

H H H H H

H Day H Week H Month H Year

Land...1 rai..60 x 27m..terms available Super view lots 2 to 10 rai 900,000 per rai 7.5 rai near Pranburi dam 1.2mil for all Many more ... ask about.. TERMS AVAILABLE “Golden View” one Lot Left ..Build Your Dream

Email: sumvee@gmail.com 087 882 4453

4 Floor

Asian Trails companies have established a network which covers all major Asian tourist destinations, with offices in all strategic inbound tourism centers throughout South East Asia. As the handling agent for major international tour operators such as the Kuoni Travel Group. Asian Trails is requiring a Representative to join our office based in Hua Hin. Key Responsibilities      

To visit the clients, particularly, English, German and French speaking in Hua Hin, ChaAm, Pranburi area. To visit German/French speaking VIP clients and groups in Hua Hin hotels. To fix all the emergencies i.e. last minute bookings, missing transfers, flights/hotels details, etc. To coordinate the information between Inbound Staff and the Operations, i.e. itineraries amendments, pick up, transfers, etc. To coordinate assistance and solve the complaints together with branch offices in Thailand You will report directly to the Operations Manager and other relevant sales managers in our Bangkok office

Requirements         

“3 BEDROOMS PENTHOUSE FOR SALE AT BAAN KIANG FAH 180 DEGREE OCEAN VIEW.” CONTACT : ROY 0819331657 EMAIL: ROYMANY@YAHOO.COM

Expatriate Tax Services

Diploma or above in Tourism Management or related disciplines Good geographical knowledge of key tourist destinations within Thailand/Southeast Asia Must be 'service focused and driven Fluency in written and spoken English, German is a big advantage Good customer service background Confident, friendly, outgoing and approachable Good problem solver with the ability to use initiative Able to work independently as well as part of a team Highly proficient in PC skills such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint

Contact: Please send your resume with recent photo to: Human Resources Department Asian Trails Ltd. 9th Floor, SG Tower, 161/1 Soi Mahadlek Luang 3 Rajdamri Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Tel : 66 (0) 2626 2000 # 2019, 2218 Fax : 66 (0) 2651 8111 E-mail : recruit@asiantrails.org Website : www.asiantrails.info

Listing No.20042, 3 Beds 2 Baths Living area 113 sqm.

Price 13.5 MB.

Phone: +66 (0) 818593118 (Thai and English) Email : starpropertybysumalee@gmail.com

Palm Hills Golf Course

• US Income Tax Returns • FATCA & FBAR Reporting • Tax Planning • IRS Representation • Competitive Rates

Great deal on this land plot for sale Will go quickly!

Peter M. Bauer, CPA

Plot 204,205 Included Golf Membership. Land Area 500 SQW.(2,000 Sqm) per plot.

petermatthewbauer@bangkokbase.com

Phone: +66 (0) 818593118 (Thai and English) Email : starpropertybysumalee@gmail.com

Mob :+66 (0) 94 043 0892

Land for sale Almost 14 rais 8,000,000 THB / rai hua hin soi 116

near Wat Phuttha Chaiyo. About 3 km from Petchkasem road

Please contact:

092-629-2528 Mai Brand New Mercedes GLA 200 SUV for Sale

Due Due to to relocation relocation Only Only 3,000 3,000 km, km, Sept Sept 2014 2014 model model Metallic Metallic Grey Grey Color, Color, in in Pristine Pristine Condition Condition

Original Price: THB 2,490,000 Now THB 2,149,000 Contact: Contact: (English) (English) 089 2557372

Looking to Buy Direct from the owner Condo 1-3 Bedroom 3-8 Million Baan sanploen, Baan Sansaran

( No Kao Takiab / No condo Chain) Looking to Rent Direct form the owner

House / Condo 15,000 – 30,000.For long term Please send Photo & Price at

conrad30@gmx.de, Tel. 080 0234 718

Looking to Rent

Covered Parking for 1 year Conrad30@gmx.de

Hot Deal House For Sale Listing No.10538 4 Beds 5 Baths

For more information

Phone: +66 (0) 818593118 (Thai and English) Email: starpropertybysumalee@gmail.com

Springfield Golf Course

30 years Family Membership

Value: 450,000 for only 220,000 baht 086 170 6371 E or 084 678 1867 TH Lotushuahin@hotmail.com HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

ENTERTAINMENT 32 Entertainment THEMELESS CHALLENGER #5

THEMELESS CHALLENGER #5 by Trip Payne

by Trip Payne 1

15 Plump fowl

6 16

33 36

16 Regardless 17 A Passage to India heroine

19 It includes the Sun and the Moon

21 R&B singer Faith 22 Where Japanese brokers work: Abbr.

23 Ready to fire

38 43 48

52 57

51 It’s often 100 meters long

12 Places for rockingchairs, sometimes

53 Supt.’s concern

13 Straightaway

54 Snap alternative

14 They’re “okay”

57 Angler’s place

20 Bored note-takers, perhaps

59 Perk up 61 Bug 62 It may prevent burning

24 Sound that stops at the cradle 29 Part of a discus

63 Funnel-shaped garment

30 Digging

64 Certain musical fanatics

34 Some linemen

65 What grooms may groom

38 Gloats

32 Niche 36 Terr. relative 39 He plays McSteamy on Grey’s Anatomy

25 Rocks in a sling

41 44

18 Underworld judge in The Last Judgment

1 Where wares are 6 Golf scoring system

ACROSS

58 61

26 “De gustibus non _ _ _ disputandum” 27 Logic problem 28 Painting at the Getty Center

31 Inoffensive cry

33 Enter the station, perhaps 35 Clinton’s Secretary of Health and Human Services 37 Massachusetts symbol 41 Be unbelievable, in a way 43 Inclusive term 44 Malia, to Sasha 47 Flying Cloud and Royale, for two

DOWN 1 Broadcasts 2 Jewish women’s organization 3 Lehár’s “The Land of Smiles”, for one 4 Water _ _ _ 5 Brad Pitt movie

40 Patrons of the arts 42 Got to the point? 44 Helping hand 45 Like many couples 46 Crew members 48 It runs off at the mouth 52 Ballerina description

6 Elucidate

55 E-mail folder

7 Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion used to require one

58 Chihuahua chamber

8 Hamburger appreciation

56 Biking or hiking place 60 Be unbelievable, in a way

9 First name of a 2005 Oscar winner 10 Connecticut town for which a disease is named

Find solution of this on our facebookpage:20 Bored 49 Shard note-takers, DOWN 35the Clinton’s Secretary of puzzle 11 The P of P.I. www.facebook.com/huahintodaynews 50 French perhaps individual 1 Broadcasts Health and Human 24 Sound that stops at the 2 Jewish women’s Services m cradle organization 37 Massachusetts symbol 29 Part of a discus 3 Lehár’s “The Land of 41 Be unbelievable, in a 30 Digging Smiles”, for one way 32 Niche 4 Water ___ 43 Inclusive term 34 Some linemen 5 Brad Pitt movie 44 Malia, to Sasha e in 36 Terr. relative 6 Elucidate 47 Flying Cloud and 38 Gloats 7 Disneyland’s Haunted Royale, for two n and The 87th Academy Awards ceremony, presented by Mansion used to require 39 He plays McSteamy on 49 Shard the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), honored Grey’s Anatomy one 50 French individual the best films of 2014 and took 40 Patrons of the arts 8 Hamburger It’s often place51 on February 22,100 2015,meters at the Dolbylong Theatre in Hollywood, Los 42 Got to the point? appreciation br. Angeles beginning at 08:30 EST. 44 Helping hand 9 First name of a 2005 53theSupt. ’s concern During ceremony, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts 45 Like many couples Oscar winner 54 Snap alternative and Sciences presented Academy 46 Crew members 10 Connecticut town for 57 Angler’s referred place ___ Awards (commonly Best Director Best Actor Bestoﬀ Actress to as59 Oscars) in many different 48 It runs at the mouth Best Supporting Actor which a disease is Perk up Alejandro González Eddie Redmayne for his Julianne Moore for her J.K. Simmons for his role categories. The ceremony was 52 description named 61byBug Iñárritu, Birdman role in The Theory of Ballerina role in Still Alice in Whiplash hosted actor Neil Patrick Harris Everything for the first time. 55 E-mail folder 11 The P of P.I. 62 It may prevent burning tty 56 Biking or hiking place 63 Funnel-shaped garment 12 Places for rocking 58 Chihuahua chamber chairs, sometimes 64 Certain musical fanatics 60 Be unbelievable, in a 13 Straightaway 65 What grooms may way groom 14 They’re “okay”

The Oscars

Best Supporting Actress Patricia Arquette for her role in Boyhood

Best Picture Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)

Best Animated Feature Film Big Hero 6

HUAHIN HINTODAY, TODAY,March MARCH HUA 20152015

Best Foreign language Film Ida (Poland)

Best Adapted Screenplay The Imitation Game

Best Documentary (feature) CitizenFour

Best Original Score The Grand Budapest Hotel

Best Visual Effects Interstellar

Free Sangria (1.3l) with every two Silver Menu or Gold Menu

34 Kidney Stone Prevention And Diagnosis Kidney Stones are accompanied by pain which can be unbearable, coming in waves until the tiny stone passes through your urinary plumbing and out of the body. Kidney stones can be prevented by making some healthy lifestyle changes. Drink more water to avoid Kidney Stones Drinking additional water dilutes the substances in urine that lead to stones. Try to drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day. You may also include some citrus beverages, like lemon water and orange juice. The citrate in these beverages helps block stone formation. If your urine is dark yellow, you are not drinking enough fluids. Diet Diet is an important part in preventing kidney stones. It is important to take a healthy balanced diet with lots of liquid. Some prevention tips include:

Limit eating processed foods such as hot dogs, deli meats, sausage, canned products, dry soup mixes, sauerkraut, pickles. Avoid Oxalate-rich foods Restrict oxalate-rich foods like beets, spinach, rhubarb, strawberries, nuts, chocolate, tea, rhubarb, beets, okra, Swiss chard, sweet potatoes, nuts, tea, chocolate and soy products. Get Calcium Getting excessively little calcium in your eating methodology can result in oxalate levels to rise and cause kidney stones. To prevent this, make sure to take in an amount of calcium appropriate to your

age. Eat calcium-rich foods, but use caution with calcium supplements. Decrease Sodium intake Reduce the amount of sodium in your diet to 2-3 grams per day. A high-sodium diet can increase the amount of calcium in your urine which results in kidney stones. Therefore a low-sodium diet is recommended for the stone prone. Limit animal protein Consuming an excess of animal protein, such as red meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood, increase the level of uric acid and could lead to kidney stones. If you’re prone to stones, limit your daily meat intake to a quantity Choose a diet low in salt A high salt intake can increase the amount of protein in the urine which is a major risk factor for the decline of kidney function. So it’s better to reduce the amount of salt you eat.

Avoid Sugar The consumption of unhealthy sugars and soda is a major factor in developing kidney stones. It’s better to avoid sugar, including fructose and soda. Kidney Stone Tests and Exams Some Test for Diagnosis of kidney Stone include: blood tests for calcium, phosphorus, uric acid and electrolytes blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine to assess kidney functioning urinalysis to check for crystals, bacteria, blood, and white cells abdominal X-rays intravenous pyelogram (IVP) retrograde pyelogram ultrasound of the kidney MRI of the abdomen and kidneys abdominal CT scan

‘Chilling Out’ After Too Much Chilli You just took a big spoonful of that awesome smelling chili, or bit deep into a chicken wing. Instantly your mouth has become a burning inferno. Panic sets in as you begin to uncontrollably sweat and run around looking for something, anything that will douse the flames in your mouth, throat and sometimes, nose and sinuses.

soothe it with cottage cheese, cold plain yogurt, sour cream or ice cream which should also contain the milk protein called casein.

Drink sugar water

If you don’t have any milk, you may be able to coat the inside of your mouth to HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

Touch the affected area with a soft corn tortilla (lips, mouth, etc.)

Use salt. Eating salty chips can soothe the burn. Try honey. Mix a tablespoon or more of sugar with a cup water and use it to rinse out your mouth. Cold sugar solution is just about as effective as whole milk, but the relief only lasts while the mixture is still in your mouth so you’ll need to keep rinsing and spitting until the pain subsides.

Drink alcohol

There’s a protein found in milk called casein that acts like a detergent against capsaicin. It’ll actually pull the capsaicin compounds away from the nerve receptor binding sites in your mouth. Drink at least a half cup, making sure you rinse your mouth well first. You can spit it out, but you won’t get as much relief in your throat that way. The colder the milk is, the more effective it tends to be against the burning sensation.

Eat some cucumber. This is, in fact, a common way to deal with too much heat in the food in Indonesia and Thailand.

Curries and other hot dishes are almost always accompanied by copious amounts of rice in India, because starchy foods combat the burning sensation. Potato will work as well, as will bread.

Chili contains capsaicin, which is the main ingredient in pepper spray. Capsaicin can add flavour and spiciness to food, but can also cause an extreme burning sensation which can last for minutes or even hours. Capsaicin is a natural oil found in all chilies.

Drink milk

Some Other ‘Folk’ Remedies

Capsaicin is soluble in alcohol, so drinking a beer or a shot can help wash it away. It’s not nearly as effective, however alcohol is a solvent to capsaicin, not a neutralizer, so it will break it loose, but it may just spread it around.

Try eating a raw carrot. Just take a bite and the burn will significantly diminish. Coconut milk works very well to cut the burn and modulate the heat level of a spicy recipe. Ice Cream for the same reasons as cold milk, and it has sugar.

Eat a banana - the texture and sugar content may help soothe the burn. Eat some chocolate. The capsaicin in peppers is more soluble in fat than aqueous based solutions (ie beer, water, even low-fat milk).$

Eat an apple. Eating a lemon wedge, juiced or whole (with all juice), and the acid will help breakdown the oily stuff.

Don’t drink water or carbonated beverages drink hot drinks like tea or coffee eat more hot food

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

36 Hydrotherapy at Sivaree Wellness & Beauty It’s Stood the Test of Time

Hydrotherapy has its origins way back in the mid 1800’s. Father Sebastian Kneipp, a 19th century Bavarian monk, is said to be the father of hydrotherapy. Kneipp believed that disease could be cured by using water to eliminate waste from the body. He wrote books on the subject (“My Water Cure”, ”Thus Shalt Thou Live: Hints and Advice for the Healthy and the Sick”) and In 1894 he was called upon to treat Pope Leo XIII. Faithful to Kneipp’s medical advice, the Pope was to govern the Church until the age of 93. I had no idea about this history before visiting Sivaree or even after the visit, until I did a little research. What I did notice was the reproduction of a very old photo on the wall titled ‘Kneipp Water therapy’. I also noticed the use of Moya Essential Bath Oils (also available for sale) was a feature of the Centre. These products come from Bad Wörishofen, in Bavaria, Germany. Sebastian Kneipp transformed Wörishofen into one of Europe’s largest centres of holistic therapies My point is that the therapies at Sivaree have stood the test of time. This is no ordinary Spa Centre! The staff couldn’t explain that background in English or the origins of their photo, but after my research I was impressed.

Manager Khun Som with ‘The Spas of Yesteryear’

Not a ‘selfy’ or the author!

I wasn’t really prepared for the ‘water’ aspect of my 2 hour treatment experience. After the required foot bath, the next step was to have a body scrub. Khun Moo, my therapist, gently but firmly applied cooling and slightly abrasive salts to remove skin ‘contaminants’. No matter how many showers or baths you take, you’ll never feel this clean!

At the end of my two hour ‘Fin! Program’ (that means Wow!), I emerged ultra-clean, ultra-massaged and ultrarelaxed. At the Sivaree you’ll have the benefits of a timetested form of therapy and something more than your standard spa treatment. Our thanks to Khun Benjawan Ponopaibo for providing this experience.

Then for the hydrotherapy; it’s been some time since I last had a warm bath, and certainly not with the added pleasure of the bubbling waters from the mat beneath massaging every part of my body – literally very part! Instructions were provided about postures to be taken in the tub, this is intended to be a passive form of exercise as well as just pleasurable. After removing myself from the bath, I was shown the ‘bath ring’ at the high water mark, proof that any ‘skin contaminants’ may have remained after the scrub were now completely removed. Finally a more traditional massage from Khun Moo. She later mentioned after that I had fallen asleep, something I hadn’t realised; however time had flown by. The earlier bath time had provided the perfect preparation to completely relax and drift off into oblivion. I was also told not to shower after the massage as the light oils she had used were still at work.

Where: Sivaree Wellness & Beauty; Soi 54 – opposite the Klai Kangwon Palace. Treatment: Two hour Fin! Program – Body scrub, hydrotherapy, massage. Cost: 1,450 THB Other Treatments: Skin care, Slimming, Body Scrub, Facial treatment, Thai – Oil and Foot massage. Contact: Phone 032 512642, www. sivareebeauty.com

The father of hydrotherapy

Allergies– Prevention and Treatment

In our last article, we talked about cause of allergies and types of allergy divided according to the cause. In this article we will talk about how to protect yourself from allergies and give some treatment guidelines. Allergy protection and treatment can also be divided according to the cause of such allergy. The normal principles for allergy protection, treatment and how to treat patients with allergies are:

1. Environmental control and allergen control

Dust Mites - A survey of Thai patients with allergies found that most patients are allergic to dust mites. It is suggested that we should have a clear and open bedroom without any rugs, dolls and curtains. We should also wash our bed sheets, pillow cases and blankets in hot water at 60 ° C for 30 minutes at least once a week. Also, cover our bed, pillow and side pillow with synthetic fabrics. Cockroaches – we can prevent or decrease the chances of having cockroaches in our house by eliminating the food sources of cockroaches by throwing out garbage and food waste in bags or bins with tight lid. Pets – we should avoid having pets with fur such as dog, cat, bird, rabbit, etc. Pollen – we should frequently cut the glasses and weeds around the house to decrease the amount of pollen. We should not put any trees, fresh or dried flowers within our house. During pollen season, we should do outdoor activities in the morning because there will be more pollen in the air in the evening. In addition to the above, we should also avoid having contact with any irritants that may cause the recurrence of an allergy such as cigarette smoke, exhaust fumes, pungent smell, fragrance, incense smoke and dust from various sources. It is very important that we exercise frequently and have enough sleep as the symptoms usually get worse when patients are stressed and lack sleep. When asthma symptoms are aggravated from exercise, patients should use the bronchodilator for about 15-30 minutes before the exercise as it can helps prevent the occurrence of asthma during the exercise. We recommend every patient with the symptom of allergies get a skin test from the lavatory in order to understand more clearly what they are allergic to and avoid such allergens. HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

2. Medication

We can divide the treatment for allergies into 3 different types for better and easier understanding. Medical Relief such as anti-inflammatory or antihistamine and bronchodilator. Anti-Inflammatory Agents such as steroid medicines, or medicine to be inhaled through mouth or nasal cavity. Immunotherapy Vaccine is the treatment where we inject allergen into the body starting from very small amounts and increase the injection amounts until the body becomes accustomed to such allergen. Treatment with an immunotherapy vaccine is normally used for those whose symptoms does not gets better from medication or have side effect from the medicine. It must be known before the vaccine injection what we are allergic to, so the doctor can use such allergen as the vaccine. This must be provided by medical specialists and patients are required to be treated continuously as doctors recommend for at least 3-5 years. We hope that the information is useful for those readers who have allergies especially now that it is the turn of the season. Please don’t forget to take care of your health.

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

38 A Dam Nice Sunday Drive Do you ever feel like taking a Sunday drive away from the City, even away from the coast? Not too far, but a few hours of cruising in the countryside? Here’s one answer; take a drive to the Pranburi Dam. However if you make the trip, don’t be content with just a drive across the dam wall to see what’s on offer. If you are heading across the dam with the lake on your right, the main road goes downhill to the left. However to the right there is an unsealed ‘track’ heading around the lakeside, take it and keep going!

I’ve called it a track, but it’s really an unsealed single vehicle width road with a surface that’s surprisingly good. No need for a four wheeled drive or anything more than a standard vehicle. Adventurous two-wheelers would also find it very manageable. This was really an accidental discovery; from the dam there are signs of civilization across the vast lake, but no directions or encouragement to try a lake ‘circumnavigation’. We spent more than an hour travelling along the track, unsure of whether there would be a forced stop or if we would need to retrace our own tracks. No problems; the condition of the ‘track’ remained constant; a ‘long & winding

road’ with some sensational views across the waterways and scenery. We probably travelled about two thirds of the lake perimeter before intersecting a wider, though still unsealed road. Turn left at this junction and before too long it becomes a real road. Then just follow your nose and signs towards Petchakasem and you’ll end up on the main highway just south of Pranburi City. Comparisons with Kaeng Krachan Dam could be made, but it is different. This is not a National Park but a fertile flood plain from the days before the dam controlled the river flow with a mixture of planted crops (vegetables, mangoes, pineapples, rubber trees and many more) and native vegetation. There are even small copses of Eucalyptus trees. It may well be the case that some of the small dwellings and plantations do not have ‘official’ sanction, but somehow it works. Not on a commercial large scale but many ‘cash crops’ for those in the know. It’s like a drive through the ‘Garden of Eden’, Thai style. Both natural scenery and agriculture seem to be in balance but without camping grounds or other accommodation, water activities or tourism activities on offer. And not a restaurant in sight! The lake is magnificent; placid, serene and picturesque. If I was to put on a ‘tourism hat’ of some sort I would have to say this is an inland water playground waiting to be discovered. Perhaps the Coniston Waters of Thailand. I couldn’t help but imagine yachts, water-skiing, wind surfing and the sort of activity you may find at freshwater tourist destinations worldwide. Maybe even a leisurely horse ride along the track and

HUA HIN TODAY, March 2015

what about fishing? At the Pranburi Dam Lake we only spotted a few small fishing punts and one lonely jet-ski. These comments may be naïve to a host of environmental and political issues. The current, apparently unmanaged development on the shores is unobtrusive and really minimal but what of the future? Controlled and planned usage of this great resource is begging to be another reason to visit Hua Hin. Some Facts: The Pranburi Dam was built in 1978, to protect the lowland against flooding and well as to have a steady water flow for irrigation use. The 42-metre (138 ft) high and 1,500-metre (4,900 ft) wide earthen dam created an artificial lake, which covers 35.2 square kilometres (13.6 sq mi) and has a capacity of 445 million cubic metres (361,000 acre·ft). Where: From Hua Hin there are a number of ways heading inland from Petchkasem Road, the main southern highway south, either before or after Pranburi town. It’s about 10 km inland from Pranburi. An important Tip: If you take our suggested route along ‘the track’ take it easy. Head on collisions are not nice; presume someone is coming the other way on the narrow and winding journey. Bring your own: There are some great picnic spots along the route but nowhere to purchase the ‘essentials’. Take Your Time: Apart from the locals, you are likely to be an early discoverer. Relish the moment and take the time to stop-off at ‘viewpoints’ that are in abundance.