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Hua Hin, Cha-Am, Pranburi
Ensuring Beach Safety
After One Injury and Sharks Seen Off-Shore
No 1 Italian Pizza in Hua Hin!! 50% Off 2nd Pizza Buy 1 Pizza, Get 2nd at Half Price 12.00-17.00
May 2018
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Under Consideration; a New Thailand Cambodia Border Checkpoint
Indications have surfaced that Cambodia and Thailand are moving toward opening a new international border checkpoint. Both sides are considering managing their shared border despite the significant problems that remain unaddressed. new inroads have been made in this respect, in reality, old challenges remain, from transnational crimes that are still rife to labor issues left unaddressed that can complicate ties. Though the focus is often on sudden developments such as the closure of certain checkpoints, both sides have continued their more quiet management of issues within existing mechanisms that have continued on into 2018, such as the Thailand-Cambodia General Border Committee. More indications have now surfaced that Cambodia and Thailand are moving toward opening a new international border checkpoint later this year. The Phnom Penh Post quoted Keo Bunthoeun, the deputy police chief at Unit 817, as saying that officials had agreed to inaugurate the Phnom Dev International Border Checkpoint, which connects Battambang province and Thailand’s Sa Kaeo province, on May 18. Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen want to improve bilateral ties Border cooperation between Cambodia and Thailand has long been an important part of bilateral ties, with both sides already having several border crossing points and checkpoints in places like Poipet and Battambang. As part of ongoing efforts to manage their border, the two countries have tried to forge better collaboration in furthering new opportunities across the border to boost trade and tourism, while also addressing longstanding challenges such as illegal logging and drug trafficking. In recent years, as part of efforts to improve bilateral economic ties under Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen in the face of domestic challenges, both have eyed opening up more crossing points and checkpoints, as well as upgrading current ones to further this effort. The stated goal as of last year was to increase trade, which was at $5.6 billion in 2015, to $15 billion by 2020, using a variety of means including border trade. Both sides were also working out understandings on cross-border management late last year in the wake of new customs regulations in Thailand. But though some HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
Although we have seen delays with respect to some previous developments on this front, with new initiatives announced with little follow through, in this case, officials have said that the border checkpoint building has already been completed and just needs equipment to be installed to monitor cross-border movements. thediplomat.com
Cabinet Gives Nod to Highs-Speed Train Network Linking Three International Airports
The cabinet on Tuesday gave a green light to the 200 billion baht high-speed train project connecting three international airports of Suvarnabhumi and Don Meuang in Bangkok and U-taphao in Rayong.
Mr.Natthaporn Jatusripitak, an advisor to the Prime Minister’s Office minister, told the media after the cabinet meeting that investment of the project would be in the form of public-private-partnership (PPP), with the private sector investing in the engineering work, railway system, train carriages, land development to support train services, management of train service and maintenance as well as revenue collection from development of land under the project. He said that the private sector will be responsible for managing the train system for up to 50 years. As far as the government is concerned, Mr Natthaporn said the government’s investment would total 119,425 million baht to be paid in instalments within ten years. The cabinet also decided to incorporate land on both sides of the train routes from Don Meuang to Suvarnabhumi airports as part of the Eastern Economic Corridor project. Mr.Natthaporn said that the train project would generate economic returns estimated at about 700 billion baht from added value of U-Taphao airport, reduction of fuel costs and pollution, increased employment and tax collection and development of areas around train stations. Terms of reference of the bid of the project will be worked out after which a public auction will be staged to select the builder of the project, he added.
3 Content 4 Cover Story Anyone who has seen that iconic movie ‘Jaws’ will remember the John Williams’ score as one of the most recognisable pieces of music in the entire world. Just a few seconds of the iconic “duun-dun, dun-dun, duun-duun, dun-dun-dun-dun-dun-dun-dun” is enough to strike fear into the hearts of beachgoers the world over. Along with snakes and spiders, sharks have a major image problem not helped by hysterical reactions at any level; whether that be because of the media or at an official level. The recent revelation that there really is a shark population off Hua Hin beaches should come as a surprise to no one; including the most naïve tourist. This has never been an issue until the recent injury to a most unfortunate ex-pat. As the one recorded incident of an unprovoked shark bite in the history of Hua Hin; the chances are that another hundred years will pass before the next. Five recorded incident in nearly 120 years demonstrates that Thailand does not have a shark problem. To suggest that tourists will be dissuaded from heading in this direction because of a once in a million event is plainly ridiculous, let’s hope that jai yen yen prevails. And if you hear anyone humming “duun-dun” etc. as they stroll along our golden sands please suggest that they save it for their bathtub! By the way bathtubs kill 60 times more people than sharks! David
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Where to find us! Hua Hin Today Co. Ltd.
Address: 62/51-52 Soi Moo Baan Hua-Na, Phetkasem Road, Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan Thailand 77110. Website: huahintoday.com Facebook: facebook.com/huahintodaynews Twitter: twitter.com/huahintoday Who We Are: General Manager (Thai/English) Visa: Ph. 0863 693 604 visa@huahintoday.com Editor (English) David: Ph. 0826 353 151 editor@huahintoday.com
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 Assistance Centre Water Supply Post Office Power Board
032 511 047 1132 032 522 656 090 446 6056 032 511 677 032 477 646 032 511 063 032 477 252 032 512 215 032 472 069 HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
4 Shark ‘Attack’ Story Provides a Feeding Frenzy
Last month media headlines, both digital and print screamed out with headlines such as “Shark Attack: Norwegian Man Mauled at Thai Beach” and “VIDEO: It was a shark! 40 to 50 sharks spotted in waters off Hua Hin” to imply that local beach goers should be in fear of their life. This was one very unlucky shark bite, not a shark attack. Preventive measure described by the Municipality
1. Warning signs in Thai, English &Chinese to prohibit people entering the ocean at some beaches. 2. A surveillance boat patrolling along the coast to guard on Sai Noi Beach - Khao Tao beach – Takiab Beach - Hua Hin Beach. 3. Arrange for a large black coloured safety net at the Sai Noi Beach. 4. The Department of Marine Aquarium Research has investigated the number of sharks in the area. 5. A security guard to monitor and supervise the beach and is ready to assist visitors.
Concerned officials wishing the shark bite victim well The headlines and Facebook postings were prompted by serious foot injuries to a Norwegian man swimming at a local beach. After mixed reports about the cause of the injury, a consensus was reached that a shark had indeed bitten the man. This was greeted with some relief; after all, reports of the injury being caused by sharp rocks or coral are hardly newsworthy. Those who backed the shark bite theory then moved into a gloating mode with one headline stating “Shark Update: The Nation Thailand got their story wrong”.
The concesus is that a Bull Shark not a Rock Shark was responsible
Thailand Beaches What Are the Real Dangers?
While the Kingdom beaches don’t have enough shark attacks to worry about, we have other lethal things to be concerned about. Because jet skis, speed boats, banana floats and all manner of other water borne mayhem pose dangers to swimmers, many of Thailand’s most popular beaches have introduced Swimming Zones. It is never advisable to swim out-side of these areas. Rip Current A rip current also known as rip tides is a strong stream of water that quickly flows away from shore. Swimmers who are caught in rip currents can get sucked away from safety at speeds of nearly ten feet per second—far too fast to try swimming back to the beach. These dangerous currents are most common when it’s windy. There are several ways you can identify the risk for rip currents before you get in the water. Signs in the sand The first, obviously, is to look for beach flags or weather forecasts and when they tell you not to go, take it onboard. People drown trying to save other people from rip currents, so don’t risk someone else’s life. What to look for One of the best visual identifiers of a rip current is to look out for gaps between the waves. The calmer gap between waves may look safer but a small patch of calm water in an otherwise choppy sea is often a rip current.
All eyes are checking the ocean The early diagnosis was described as some sort of conspiracy between doctors, officials and the Tourism Authority to avoid damage to tourism. Next came a delegation of officials visited the victim including the deputy governor, officers from disaster mitigation, the military, police, public health and coastal resources, the Hua Hin district chief and the mayor. The hospitalised, though smiling victim, thanked everyone especially the hospital for their care. “When I recover I’ll be back in the sea,” was his reported comment adding: “No shark is going to stop me!” Prachuap Khiri Khan governor Pallop Sinhaseni then imposed a beach closure and swimming ban in the area saying that the sea at Hat Sai Noi beach, Ban Khao Tao, would be the first beach in Hua Hin to be cordoned off with a safety net to prevent sharks from swimming into the shallow water close to the beach and attacking swimmers. He added that buoys would also be erected in the area.
The offending beach now with no-swimming signs
Fear of sharks or ‘Galeophobia’ conjures up images of the Great White shark depicted in Jaws, the popular blockbuster movie. After movies of this genre, the media is the most likely cause of the fear of sharks. Sharks are often portrayed as vicious, dangerous creatures however the reality is quite different; especially in Thailand. On average there are only six fatalities that are attributable to unprovoked shark attacks worldwide, each year. By contrast about 100 million sharks and rays are killed each year by fisheries. Dr Thon Thamrongnawasawat of the faculty of fisheries at Bangkok’s Kaset University says don’t worry about sharks; there are far worse things to concern you. And he didn’t even mention the road toll or dogs. “The chance of being bitten by a shark is one in a hundred million to one in two hundred million,” said Dr Thon. “ Of the more than 400 species of shark in the world, fourteen of them are known to be in Thai waters, including black tip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, leopard sharks, whale sharks and bull sharks. Shark expert David Martin, who has more than 25 years of experience filming sharks for BBC and the National Geographic says: “Only a few species have the ability (size, habitat and behaviour) to bite a human by mistake,” Mr Martin noted saying that “all shark bite incidents are mistakes.” “The beaches of Thailand are very, very, very safe from any shark attack. There are millions of people swimming in Thai waters every month.” Although statistics are inconsistent; the following numbers from www.sharkattackdata.com give an indication of where Thailand is placed in shark bite incidents. The figures below are for unprovoked bites between 1900 and 2016; more than one hundred years of data. There are currently about 70 -100 shark accidents annually resulting in about 5 to 6 deaths worldwide.
Unprovoked Shark Bites From 1900 - 2016 United States of America: Total 1657; Fatal 144 Australia:
Total 904; Fatal 259
South Africa:
Total 395; Fatal 96
Thailand:
Total 5;
Fatal 2
The message is that Thailand beaches are amongst the least likely places for an unpleasant encounter between a human and a shark. If any tourist is deterred from visiting Hua Hin for a beachside holiday it is much more likely to be because of road safety than because of this isolated event. For a relaxing and enjoyable beach experience, they will be hard pressed to find a safer alternative anywhere in the world. HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
If it happens to you Firstly it is important to know that rip currents don’t pull you under the water; instead, they pull you away from shore very quickly. If you’re ever caught in one, never try to swim against the current, even the best swimmers can’t swim against a rip current. If you’re a fairly good swimmer, you have to swim parallel to the beach so you can get out of the current. Once you escape the clutches of the outbound water, you can start swimming back towards shore. Box Jellyfish The Box Jelly (aka Sea Wasp or Chironex Fleckeri) are one of the most toxic creatures on Earth. In Thailand it is mostly a problem from July – October and mainly around Koh Samui and Ko Pha-ngan.
Marine biologists’ advice is to: Keep looking all around when in the water and try to swim with a partner. A sting can immobilise a person, making it difficult to swim back to shore alone. Beware of seemingly dead jellyfish on the beach. If they were recently beached, they can still sting. Take the injured from the sea and keep them still in order to reduce the spread of the venom. Stings treatment Pouring household vinegar over wounds/tentacles for up to 30 seconds is recommended. Wise beach goers include a bottle of vinegar along with their supplies of sunscreen as a standard measure. Many beaches in Thailand have “vinegar stations” for the treatment of jellyfish stings, ask a local and the chances are supplies will be available nearby. If vinegar is not available rinse with SEA water, not fresh water. Do not wash or scrub the affected area with water or suntan creams, as this will merely aggravate the sting. Use sand to cover the sting area and dry out any remaining tentacles. Do seek medical care if experiencing any ongoing symptoms.
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6 GM Franck Rodriguez, Reaching For the Sky at the Holiday Inn
On the day we met with Frank Rodriguez, the General Manager of the Holiday Inn Vana Nava Hua Hin, he was about to host the monthly gathering of local hotel and resort general managers at Vana Nava Sky Bar & Restaurant. This is where they will experience the best views of Hua Hin from the 27th floor of the tallest building in town.
Franck has more than two decades of experience in the international hospitality industry, including spells in London, Singapore and Bangkok. Prior to rejoining IHG in 2016, he served as director of operations for The Unique Collection of Hotels & Resorts, overseeing 27 properties. He then became general manager of the Holiday Inn Resort Benoa Bali and later area general manager of Holiday Inn Resorts Thailand. Any prospect of returning to his native France, or anywhere else in Europe is quickly dismissed with southeast Asia as his adopted region. Franck maintains a home in Bangkok and apart from Hua Hin; he would say that that is his ‘home city.’ Taking control of the newly opened Holiday Inn Vana Nava has not been without challenges but Franck remains very comfortable in this role. He had been very busy in recent days welcoming the buzz of family groups filling the hotel as our visit coincided with the final days of the Songkran holiday period. Franck says that meeting and welcoming guests is
one of his favourite duties. He says “everyday is different” and to succeed in the hospitality industry what is needed is an open mind and a logical approach. When it comes to hiring staff, attitude and personality are the most important attributes. A family focus is one of the hallmarks of the hotel, most obviously due to the adjacent Vana Nava Water Park but also with kid friendly facilities such as the Bryde’s Kid Club and Kid’s Suites to accommodate junior guests. This means that if a parent has business meetings to attend or other adult activities the kids are bound to stay happy. Franck believes Hua Hin is on the cusp of a huge tourism boost, as overseas visitors take advantage of flight options to come at the Hua Hin Airport. There is also a distinct possibility that the small railway station within walking distance of the hotel will become the Hua Hin stopping point for the future high speed train from Bangkok. Hua Hin emerged as a resort village with the arrival of rail transport in the 1920s and Franck sees the coming new transport options heralding a new beginning. However from he says that the growth he has seen in recent years has not compromised Hua Hin’s unique identity and almost ‘village’ atmosphere. The Holiday Inn is eager to maintain that identity.
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Design features which resonate throughout the hotel recognise Hua Hin’s past, in particular links with the ocean and the fishing community. Engagement with the local community ha resulted in the Hua Hin Artists’ Village artisan, Thawee Keas-ngarn, producing murals and literally hundreds of paintings with the maritime themes. The hotel design team integrated a traditional fishing trap or ‘sai’ at the peak of the building and to enclose steps from the entry to the first floor lobby. There’s also a statue of a Bryde’s Whale as a welcoming feature at the entry. Franck says he has named the statue “Broodus”; not really a pet name, but the correct pronunciation of “Bryde”. As the finale of our conversation with GM Franck we were introduced to the heights of the 27th floor, including my first nervous walk across the glass floored observation deck. At this level Vana Nava Sky Bar & Restaurant also offers the most spectacular views in town. A ‘Sunday Jazzy Brunch’ (20th May) at this venue offers an ideal opportunity to join GM Franck and to take in the sights and ‘reach for the sky’. Our thanks to GM Franck for his hospitality and the opportunity to better understand how the Vana Nava Holiday Inn is becoming a valuable corporate citizen to enhance Hua Hin’s image and progress.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
New Bio-Resonance Clinic
In our clinic we combine Bio-resonance with Traditional Chinese Medicine. TCM is a precise and complete medical system that has been continuously practiced for over 4.000 years. It includes herbology and acupuncture for the treatment and prevention of disease, illness and injury.
With bio-resonance we make visible what is invisible!
In a full health scan we take more than 200 measurements, which are then automatically checked for 10.200 known health problems, all computerized, with the results appearing on your own computer monitor in front of you. You will be amazed! The clinic is managed by a Thai TCM doctor, who also practices bio-resonance.
Pls. call 084 919 3546 for an appointment. Address: 136/465 Soi 102, Hua Hin clinicbioresonance@gmail.com
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8 2018 Bangkok Motor Show: Asean’s Top Motor Show With the tagline “Revolution in Motion“, the 39th installation of the Bangkok International Motor Show was a spectacle of automotive extravagance. Mitsubishi EX Concept
The theme highlighted the progress and development in automotive technology over more than 130 years of vehicle innovation. The ‘revolution’ has enhanced safety, performance, and convenience in today’s automotive applications.
“It is the top motor show in Asean, and is certified by OICA (Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles) and listed on the global motor show calendar,” said the 75-year-old Dr Prachin. Since 1992, the annual motor show has attracted between 1.59 and 2.1 million visitors at each edition. In the last five editions, it drew 1.6 to 1.78 million visitors. Dr Prachin said the booth designs and construction materials at the Bangkok Motor Show are of international standards. “We are among the top five in the world when it comes to the construction and design of motor shows.”
Econ Concept is a new generation electric drive with a high-capacity and full-battery capacity. Equipped with high-power motors, all power systems are lightweight and more economical with a 400 km drive capacity Twin Motor 4WD and S-AWC. Automated driving systems combine with state-of-the-art data management technologies and state-of-the-art security technologies. Fomm AWD Sport Concept
Concept Vehicle Highlights Yamaha MOTOROiD
The show was held from March 28th to April 8th at Challenger Hall, Impact Muang Thong Thani. The BIMS has earned a ‘Best in the Region” accolade and is now regarded as one of the top 5 motor shows in the world.
The Fomm AWD Sport Concept is a two-seat fourwheel electric vehicle with a body length of 3,300 mm, 1,490 mm wide and 1,255 mm high. The grille design is inspired by the Kabuki makeup. The It is a stylish car with a modern design, headlights are LED doors, scissors open. The line is simple. The electric motor is powered by 27 horsepower (20 kW) and torque of 1,120 Nm (825 lb ft). There are four lithium-ion batteries, each with a capacity of 2.96 kilowatts. This is an artificial intelligence (AI) motorcycle that can recognise owners and communicate with their owners as if they were alive. Powered by electric power, theI can move to commands with words such as say hello, interact with the car owner. It can even follow the owner, similar to a dog that walk by the owner.
MINE
Fomm AWD Scooter Concept Miss Motor Show 2018, is Ms.Siriporn Bhuddha, or Fang Fang
Dr Prachin visiting the motor show’s fashion catwalk. Dr Prachin Eamlumnow, who is the CEO of Grand Prix International and the organising chairman of the motor show, noted that over the years, the Bangkok International Motor Show had consistently drawn high numbers of visitors.
HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
FOMM launched the Fomm AWD Scooter Concept for the first time in this event. It is a compact two-seater with a length of 2,280 mm, a width of 780 mm, a height of 1,235 mm, a maximum power of 7.5 kW, a maximum torque of 420 Nm, while the battery is lithium-ion. The battery life is 6 hours and the motorcycle is powered by 2 wheels.
MINE Mobility introduced 3 models: the City, Sport and MPV to meet the needs of all age groups. The company wants to make Thai electric cars easy to own. The City hatchback model will have a sales price of no more than 6 hundred thousand THB and the MPV no more than 1 million THB to be delivered by the end of next year This year, there were vehicles from Japan, including Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, Honda, Mitsubishi, Isuzu, Mazda, Subaru, Suzuki and Kia and Hyundai as well as European and American car brands such as BMW, Bentley, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Jaguar, Porsche, Land Rover, Volvo, MG, Ford, Maserati and Chevrolet. Motor bike manufacturers included Kawasaki, Harley-Davidson, Triumph and Royal Enfield. The show included the launch of more than 10 new models together with another 3 concept cars that represent the cutting edge automotive technology. It is believed that the event will stimulate the national economy by not less than 40 billion THB.
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Ex-Pat Group Health Insurance Coming Any Nationality, Any Age!
If you are a foreign Thailand resident who doesn’t have health insurance because you are too old, because it does not cover pre-existing conditions or insurance is too expensive, you are not alone. A survey shows that 66% of long-term retirees in Thailand lack health insurance.
The Cha-Am hospital is just one regional government hospital It is very expensive to insure when you are over 70, even if you do not have pre-existing medical conditions. The Thai healthcare system is also suffering from increased costs, as many uninsured foreigners do not have the means to pay for hospital care. SAMS; the Thailand Federation of Swedish Associations, has decided to do something about this important issue. Initially SAMS lobbied the Swedish government to express discontent about Swedish national health insurance not covering health services in Thailand. This has now resulted in the prospect of affordable health insurance for ex-pats of all nationalities, regardless of age or pre-existing medical conditions. The Swedish Association of Hua Hin has been at the forefront of this effort with Board Member Lars Olof Fagerström providing information to Hua Hin Today and eager to spread the news. Lars says “Expats or long-stayers are of course the target groups, especially if they are elderly or cannot get insurance in some other way.” Group health insurance is similar to the way in which big companies provide health insurance for their employees by negotiating with health insurance companies. A reputable insurance broker, Bangkok Insurance Brokers Co. Ltd (BIB), has indicated that basic health insurance may be available for as low as 2,000 THB per month to all ex-pats.
The Swedish Association of Hua Hin has health care of ex-pats on the radar with free medical checks being offered at a recent gathering of Members Expressions of interest are now being sought from those considering taking up such an offer. Around 2,000 registrations required to make the proposal a reality and to launch the largest health insurance group for foreigners in Thailand. This health insurance will not have age restrictions, will be a lifetime cover and will accept most pre-existing medical conditions. However as basic cover, only government hospitals will be included. In the future, the plan is to cooperate with the Thai Immigration Bureau to offer this insurance at all immigration offices in Thailand.
Features of the Group Health Insurance Proposal This insurance only covers treatment in Thai Government hospitals for in-patient coverage. Foreigners and Thai nationals of all ages will be accepted for membership. Two levels of cover will be offered. Basic cover 500,000 THB annual limit and an optional 2nd level of cover (major medical) with an additional 500,000 THB, which covers 80% in excess of the basic cover. The premium is estimated to be just over 2,000 THB per month for the basic level. No cut-off age for older members with continued cover for life. Full cover for accidents and most sicknesses. Few exclusions with cover for most pre-existing medical conditions after standard waiting periods. Standard exclusions will include, but not be limited to; accidents involving drugs and alcohol, suicide, drug abuse, cosmetic treatments, sexually transmitted diseases, AIDs/HIV, dangerous sports, congenital abnormalities/Birth defects, mental illness, criminal acts/ illegal activities. If you are interested in health insurance, expressions of interest are being registered without obligations at: www. insurance-in-thailand.com/affordable-health-insurance-foranyone-in-thailand. HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
10 Global Survey Shows Children are no Getting Dental Check-ups Early Enough
The World Dental Federation (FDI) has asked parents around the world how they cared for their children’s oral health growing up and the responses suggest room for improvement. Maintaining a healthy mouth is crucial to keeping it functioning correctly and for maintaining general health and well-being.
A survey carried out in 10 countries found that only 13% of parents with children aged 18 and under took their child to the dentist before their first birthday - the recommended age for a first dental visit. Most parents first took their child to the dentist when they were between one and three years old (24%) or between four and six years old (22%), while 20% of parents reported never having taken their child for a dental check-up. “It’s worrying to learn that most children are not getting a dental check-up
at the recommended age,” said Dr Kathryn Kell, FDI President. “Good oral health habits start early. Parents should visit the dentist after their child’s first tooth starts erupting as a preventive measure to avoid risk of developing early childhood caries. Oral diseases can impact every aspect of life and are associated with many general health conditions. We want people to make the connection between their oral health and general health and understand the impact that one has on the other. Knowing how to protect your mouth and body at all ages
Thailand’s Big Banks to Waive Digital Transaction Fees Thailand’s four largest banks have decided to waive off digital transaction fees to retain retail customers, as new channels for online payments and electronic wallets are being launched in the country.
Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn Bank, Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) and Krungthai Bank said earlier this week that they would drop charges by April for digital transactions with other banks, money transfers across banking zones, bill payments and cash withdrawals. Thai banks are feeling the pressure from non-banking competitors as customers are switching to alternative methods of money transfer. Customers prefer governmentbacked money transfer service, PromptPay, startup Omise and digital wallets such as TrueMoney, offered by telecommunication firm True Corp. Waiving off online transaction fees could hurt the market value of these banks and their profit could decline up to 5%, analysts warned. The decision to waive off digital t ra n s a c t i o n fe e s w i l l s u p p o r t t h e government’s plan to make Thailand a
Offenders have placed steel plates on the railway line at Kui Buri, causing damage to a train which was unable to continue.
HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
twice a day, and 38% of them said they limited sugary foods and drinks in their child’s diet to avoid oral diseases. Only 26% reported to have personally cleaned their child’s teeth from as soon as the first tooth pushed out, and merely 8% mentioned having encouraged their child to wearing a mouthguard when playing sports. FDI recommends practicing good oral care, avoiding risk factors such as an unhealthy diet - particularly one high in sugar, and having regular dental check-ups to protect oral health and general health at all ages. Parents should start cleaning their child’s teeth before bed time when the first tooth starts pushing through, supervise children’s toothbrushing twice a day with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste and schedule regular dental check-ups starting no later than the first birthday.
Illicit Cigarette Use Doubled, Major Tobacco Company Study Finds
Philip Morris (Thailand) Limited [PMTL] revealed the findings of its study, which compared the 4th quarter of last year with the same period in 2016. The study, conducted by research house Nielsen, showed that non-domestic cigarettes, or cigarettes without a Thai tax stamp, rose to 6.6 per cent last year, an increase from 2.9 per cent in 2016.
‘cashless society’, Bangkok Bank Executive Vice-President Prassanee Ouiyamaphan said, adding that the lender would waive off these fees from April. “We aim to respond to our customers’ needs,” Siam Commercial Bank’s first senior vice president, digital banking division, Tana Pothikamjorn, said in a statement. In 2017, 15.9% of SCB’s 30.3 billionTHB ($970.22 million) of net fee income included bank transfer and remittances. – Reuters
Serious Rail Sabotage at Kui Buri
The incident happened in mid-April with police investigating the scene where a sprinter train with six bogies on the YalaBangkok rand Suratthani-Bangkok route had crashed into a steel sheet about 1 ft. long. The incident occurred at 02.00 am with Police Captain Bancha Sukklang of the Kui Buri police being informed that a Southern Railway train had suffered damage to the electrical system, oil tank leaks and damage to an air displacement system preventing the train from continuing. Closure of an irrigation canal may have motivated the sabotage. Officers responsible for the train being recovered arranged for machinery to pull the damaged train from the track in order not to interrupt other rail traffic and provided the
contributes to a better quality of life.” Half (50%) of the parents who had taken their child to the dentist identified the reason as being a regular dental check-up. However, while this was the most frequent answer in the United Kingdom (82%), Sweden (77%), Argentina (65%), France (63%), the United States (63%), Australia (56%), and China (34%); the most reported response for going to the dentist in Egypt, the Philippines, and Morocco was pain or discomfort in their child’s mouth (56%, 43% and 38% respectively). More than two-fifths (43%) of parents with children aged 18 and under said that they personally ensured their child’s teeth were brushed before bed time to avoid oral diseases - a key message promoted by FDI. The survey also showed that 40% of parents supervised their child’s toothbrushing
500 passengers with transport so they could reach their destination in safety. Mr. Prasit Moree, the train driver, told the reporters the diesel train was heading from the south towards Bangkok with passengers returning from the Songkran festival when it collided with the steel plate as it was slowing down to enter Kui Buri station. There were no passenger injuries. In January a similar event occurred with seven cement pillars being placed on the train track to block trains that was heading to Thung Ma Mao Railway Station. This time the train was not damaged because the pillars were made of old cement. Train officials could offer no reason for these two dangerous occurrences.
The study found the problem is most widespread in the south, with the provincial incidence as high as 76.6 per cent in Satun, 67 per cent in Songkhla, and 40 per cent in Patthalung, said Pongsathorn Ansusinha, PMTL’s director of corporate affairs. From the 10,000 samples of discarded cigarette packs collected for the study, 669 packs (or 6.6 per cent) were found without Thailand’s tax stamp and were thus considered “non-domestic” cigarettes. Two cigarette brands made up about half of these non-domestic samples, neither of which was registered with the Excise Department. Pongsathorn said that after the excise tax reform in September 2017, the company anticipated legal cigarette consumption volume to undergo a significant reduction this year because some smokers can no longer afford to buy legal cigarettes. They would either quit smoking or turn to the roll-your-own tobacco or illicit cigarettes.
“By using the 6.6 per cent rate, we estimate the consumption of non-tax-paid cigarettes in Thailand could reach about 100 million packs. This could mean a loss of excise revenue of at least 3.6 billion THB per year, assuming excise tax of 36 THB per pack in 2018,” he said. The amount could rise as the excise burden is set to rise again in October 2019, when all cigarettes would be subject to specific tax rate of 24 THB per pack plus 40 per cent ad valorem tax, he added. Assuming the illicit cigarette use remained at 6.6 per cent, while the volume of legal cigarettes further contracts, the excise revenue loss could be as large as 5 billion THB per year in 2020, he said. Pongsathorn urged the government to enforce laws, particularly the suppression and prevention of illicit cigarettes. Source: http://www.nationmultimedia. com/detail/national/30342340
11 Aviation Officials are Confiden of Attracting more Foreign Airlines
Darun Saengchai, director-general of the Department of Aviation, says that several airlines have expressed an interest to open routes from their home countries to Thailand as a result of discussions with 18 partners at the Routes Asia 2018 event in Australia. The three-day Routes Asia 2018 development forum provides a platform for senior decision makers of leading airlines, airports, tourism authorities and industry influencers from Asia’s air service development community to expand connections and discuss route development opportunities.
Given high growth in the Asean region, Australia’s low-cost Jetstar Airways will study routes from Perth to Surat Thani and from Perth to Krabi with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. “Jetstar has shown interested to fly to the Andaman coast along Krabi province. We also offer the Gulf of Thailand in Surat Thani province. The airline has been very interested in these options and has asked to study tourism information about the eastern seaboard,” Darun said. Malaysia’s Malindo Air will open a new route from Kota Bharu to Surat Thani in June with ATR 75 aircraft. Now, the airline is in the process of requesting for a licence from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). Malindo Air has been asked to consider to resuming a Penang-Krabi route, which it used to serve in 2014-2015 The increasing numbers of tourists in the area make this route more appealing now.
Thai AirAsia X has been eyeing a direct flight from Krabi to Incheon in South Korea. The airline has been asked to open a Hua Hin-Chiang Mai route to connect its Kuala LumpurHua Hin route, which will begin service on May 18th. The proposal would encourage more travel to popular destinations in Thailand while at the same time reducing passenger traffic at both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. It would mean that both Hua Hin and then Chiang Mai would be within easy reach for tourists arriving from Kuala Lumpur, which in turn would open up both destinations to people travelling not only from Malaysia but also from the likes of Indonesia, Singapore and Australia. As well as flights connecting Hua Hin and Chiang Mai, Air Asia X is also looking at direct flights between Krabi and Incheon in South Korea. Thai VietJet Air plans to open a Bangkok-Krabi route and has been asked to study a Chiang Rai-Phuket route due to passengers’ strong response. Laos’ national airline is keen to use Khon Kaen Airport as its base and is in discussions with the airline’s partner in the province for joint investment and airline registration in Thailand. The Nation
Maya Beach Close as Tourism Takes its Toll
Security Guard Caught Stealing From Airport X-Ray Station
Multiple low cost carriers are considering more Thailand routes
Thailand will shut Maya Bay, which famously featured in The Beach, a movie starring Leonardo Di Caprio, for four months from June.
Maya Bay has become the main tourist attraction of Phi Phi since The Beach was filmed in 1999. It was popular before the film but people around the world who haven’t even heard of Phi Phi have certainly heard of Maya Bay. The bad news; as it’s so beautiful and so well-known many boats are required to ferry all the visitors in and out. On any given day at any time there may be 30 + speedboats and longtail boats on the beach, with large ferry boats carrying hundreds of snorkelers and sightseers moored in deeper water. The decision to keep visitors away was made by Thailand’s national parks and wildlife department, according to reports. “Islands have very fragile eco-systems that simply cannot handle so many people, pollution from boats and beachfront hotels,” said Thon Thamrongnawasawat, a marine expert in Bangkok. “Coral reefs have been degraded by warmer seas and overcrowding. Sometimes, a complete closure is the only way for nature to heal,” he told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.
More than three-quarters of Thailand’s coral reefs have been damaged by rising sea temperatures and unchecked tourism, said Thon, who last week recommended limiting visitors to its 22 marine parks to six million a year to enable their recovery. Currently, they number about 5.5 million, he said. Thailand closed dozens of dive sites to tourists in 2011, after unusually warm seas caused severe damage to coral reefs in the Andaman Sea, one of the world’s top diving regions. It also shut some islands in 2016. The country’s sandy beaches helped draw record numbers of tourists last year, with revenues contributing about 12 per cent of the economy. The government expects 38 million visitors this year. Southeast Asia is expected to bear the brunt of rising damage to coral reefs, depriving fishermen of incomes and leaving nations exposed to incoming storms and damage from surging seas, recent research showed. Source: Reuters
Police say an 89-year-old American traveller complained that six 1,000 THB banknotes he had in his bag when he gave it up to be X-rayed were missing when he collected it. Officers went to the scanning spot, where a worker was searched with 6,000 THB found in his uniform pocket.
A guard manning an X-ray machine at Suvarnabhumi airport has been caught with 6,000 THB he allegedly stole. The guard initially denied he stole the money, police said however surveillance camera footage at the scene provided convincing evidence and the worker later confessed to stealing the money, according to police. The 25-year-old man works for a company which supplies security staff for the airport. He was assigned to the X-ray machine at the passenger entry portal. The worker said he needed the money to go back to his home province of Prachuap Khiri Khan. He had worked at the airport for less than a month and was paid 580 THB per day. According to police, he said the work was too arduous for him and he wanted to go back to his home province to find another
job. As he did not have enough money, he decided to steal it. Kittipong Kittikachorn, deputy general manager of Suvarnabhumi airport, said management of the firm that hired the man had been notified and had been called to a meeting. They would be told to be more careful when screening people for the job. This offence was committed by an individual, he said. The airport’s security remained up to standard. As the American passenger had already left Thailand, the money would be sent to him, along with an explanation, to boost his confidence in Thailand, Mr Kittipong said. This is a clear warning that ensuring the security of valuables or cash in airports must always be carefully considered by passengers, not only in Thailand but worldwide. HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
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Villa Market Embraces e-shopping
Villa Market JP Co, the wholly owned operator of the supermarket chain, is taking a digital approach to boost sales growth this year. The company has announced a partnership with Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) to launch two digital platforms, the VPlus Wallet app and shoponline.villamarket. com, in response to the consumer drift from cash to electronic payments. According to Pisit Poosanakhom, the company’s chief executive, customers can now do cashless shopping via 34 Villa Market branches nationwide. The website lets shoppers buy goods from Villa Market outlets around the clock and choose to receive the goods through delivery or pick them up at Villa supermarkets, and will be made available this month. Pisit said the company is also developing various digital platforms and expects to provide a complete digital offering within the next two years. He said the moves will enable the company to keep its existing customer base, recruit new customers and reduce cash operations, one of the burdens of business management. “The change in consumer lifestyles and the market because of digital technology
HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
is more violent and faster than changes in past eras,” Pisit said. “But we see this as an opportunity more than a fear. Given our small size, we are much more flexible for the digital transformation.” Villa Market expects sales from the online channel to contribute 5% of the company’s total over the next five years. Apart from the digital platform, Pisit said the company plans to open four or five new Villa Market stores this year, bringing the total to 38 or 39 by year-end. Each store requires an investment of 30-40 million THB. Villa Market recorded sales of 6 billion baht in 2017, with the figure expected to grow to 6.6 billion baht this year. Wasin Saiyawan, SCB’s head of corporate banking, touted VPlus Wallet as the first Thai supermarket app enabling clients to top up money and accumulate loyalty points for the redemption of benefits. Clients can also enjoy the convenience of paying for products via credit cards, debit cards or from their account through the SCB Payment Gateway service on the website, he said. – Bangkok Post
‘Nong Lin’ Wins Miss Grand Prachuap Khirikhan 2018 Miss Muangpetch (Nong Lin), aged 22, a 4th year student at Rajamangala University of Technology Rattanakosin Wang Klai Kangwon Campus, Hua Hin, has been proclaimed Miss Grand Prachuap Khirikhan 2018.
At Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, many people came to cheer and support for their favorite girl with 14 beautiful girls who progressed to the final round. Mr. Pongpun Wichensamut Duputy of Prachap Khiri Kran Governor presided over the contest and was joined by Mrs Orasa Arwutkom, Director of the TAT, Mr. Udomsuk Nimsean President of tourism business association and Mrs. Jariya Hunsawong General Manager of Bluport with other honored guests. During the competition each contestant modeled formal gowns and answered questions from the eight committee members to express their vision and personality. The unanimous decision was to announce Nong Lin as the winner. She will receive 50,000 THB plus an additional
10,000 THB for the title of Miss Beloved Media. The first runner is Miss Kancharas Pimsuk who receives 30,000 THB with a sash and a trophy. The second runner is Miss Marie Cole Kuan Shirori who receives 20,000 THB with a sash and trophy. Miss Muangpetch will be represent the province in the Miss Grand International contest.
13 Time to Go Digital; Alibaba Tells Thai Farmers
Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba Group agreed during CEO Jack Ma’s brief trip to Bangkok last month to help smalland medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), startups and farmers in Thailand by getting them more digitally connected through its platforms. Plans were also discussed plans for a smart digital hub that will be developed in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) based on the company’s recent investment there.
Jack Ma meets with the Thai PM Alibaba co-founder and executive chairman Ma met Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak and the rest of the government’s economic team to discuss their future cooperation and the group’s investments in the country. Four memoranda of understanding were signed covering cooperation in four
areas: Using e-commerce to boost local farm product exports to China; developing human resources for Thai e-commerce operations and startups; running a digital tourism platform in Thailand; and Alibaba’s 11 billion THB investment in a smart digital hub in the EEC. “China is on its way to becoming the world’s largest consumer, driven by rising income and a growing middle class of 300 million. There is no better time than now for trade-oriented countries to seize this opportunity to export to China, as the country continues to open its doors wider for global trade,” Ma said after the meeting. He also praised Thai agriculture products and its digital prospects. “Quality Thai agricultural products such as fragrant rice, durian and other tropical fruit, in particular, are sought after by the Chinese consumer,” he said. “Given Thailand’s unique strengths in people and culture, we are confident of its future and growth potential under the government’s Thailand 4.0 policy. We are committed to being a long-term partner of Thailand to help enable its digital transformation,” the Alibaba co-founder added. Gen Prayut said cooperation with the Alibaba Group will enhance the country’s e-commerce development and would be good for growth. “The group believes Thailand has the potential to become an e-commerce center in the region, which
Dutch Paedophile Sentenced For Multiple Sex Offences in Hua Hin
Dutchman Reinold Klunder, who was arrested in Hua Hin for child abuse at the end of last year, has been sentenced to 22 years in prison according to a report in the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf. It is understood that the sentence was confirmed by the Dutch Public Prosecution Service. Klunder (51) was arrested in November at a property in the Smorprong area near Bor Fai and admitted to being a paedophile. A ten year old boy was found at his home at the time of his arrest. He is believed to have invited boys under 15 to his home and engaged in sex after pool sessions. He then shared videos of these incidents with other paedophiles. Police are said to have acted on a tip from Dutch authorities who had investigated Klunder, a businessman in real estate, and obtained a search warrant for his Hua Hin home. Klunder is alleged to have lured children by inviting them in his swimming pool and by making music. He was described an organist in various places in the Netherlands and also played organ in his Thai house. On social media he regularly posted recordings of his music. According to De Telegraaf, the Hua Hin Dutch community in Thailand was not surprised about Klunder’s arrest, as rumors of his sexual misconduct had been persistent. He was regularly seen with boys at a local food court and frequently seen in the presence of young boys.
Klunder is understood to have pleaded guilty to the charges which resulted in the 22 year prison sentence rather than a possible 44 years for the multiple offenses. He had previously been reported for child abuse in the Netherlands but moved to Southeast Asia about 15 years ago. He settled just north of Hua Hin and earned money by renting out holiday homes. The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs will not comment on the case but has granted consular assistance. Although some locals have described their surprise, with one neighbour saying “I was told he was a private music teacher and that he gave free lessons to the kids.” However many others had a very different impression but apparently did nothing about their concerns.
conforms to government policy. This also helps to develop the economies of neighboring countries,” he said. “This cooperation will assist local community businesses and help farmers increase their income as logistics will be much improved and farm products can will able to be shipped within 24 hours.” The prime minister said Thailand and China can also generate income through a digital platform for tourism that Alibaba and the Thai government have agreed to develop. The EEC Office signed two of the four MoUs according to Kanit Sangsubhan, its secretary-general. The first covers cooperation with Alibaba’s e-commerce subsidiary in Singapore to drive exports of Thai farm products and other goods to the global market, starting with rice and durian. To mark the deal, the Thai Rice Flagship Store was launched on Tmall.com to promote Thai rice to Chinese customers. Tmall.com, formerly known as Taobao Mall, is Alibaba’s business-to-consumer marketplace. The Commerce Ministry expects up to 45,000 tons of high-quality rice will be exported via e-commerce channels this year, rising to 120,000 tons in 2019. The second MoU was signed with Alibaba Group’s Cainiao Smart Logistics Network Hong Kong Ltd and focuses on the smart digital hub in the EEC. This will utilize Alibaba and Cainiao’s world-class data and logistics technologies to boost cross-border
trade not only between Thailand and China, but also other markets, the group said. Alibaba Group inked the other two MoUs with three Thai agencies. The first concerns an agreement between the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Zhejiang Fliggy Network Technology Co. They will create a Thailand tourism platform to facilitate travel bookings and room reservations in the country, to give hotels, shops and restaurants a wider audience of Chinese travelers. The final MoU was between Alibaba Business School and two Thai authorities, the Industrial Promotion Department and the International Trade Promotion Department, to help develop more suitable human resources for SMEs, including “smart” farmers. It aims to train 30,000 entrepreneurs a year. Chinese consumers ordered 80,000 durians the minute a new online promotion went live as part of a Chinese-Thai initiative to help sell the Southeast Asian country’s local products via the internet. The 80,000 Monthong durians, weighing a combined 200,000 kilograms, were snapped up by Chinese consumers on Alibaba’s Tmall platform within 60 seconds of them going online, after the Hangzhoubased e-commerce operator closed a 3 billion yuan (US$478 million), three-year deal on durian sales with the Thailand government, according to statement issued by the company.
Extreme Tides Expose the Real Stone Head of Hua Hin
Once a year extreme tides expose a rocky landscape as the ocean retreats from the sands of Hua Hin Beach with hordes of visitors enjoying the virtual moonscape.
There is only happens on one day a year from the early morning and then again in the evening. This means the rocks, which are the source of the name Hua Hin or stone head, become exposed to attract hundreds of beach goers to clamber over the rocks looking for shells and discovering a side of the beach rarely seen. This resulted in a holiday atmosphere last month with tourists bringing their families to relax and take pictures of the natural phenomenon and to enjoy their
drinks literally ‘on the rocks’, especially in the cooler evening, Visitors to Hua Hin said that despite many previous visits to the beach this was the first time that they had seen so many rocks and described their visit as s a beautiful and charming experience. Traders who offer beach chairs and horse rental operators say this extreme tide happens every year in March before the Songkran Festival and welcome the trading opportunities presented.
Public Health Ministry Warns against Eating Mangrove Horseshoe Crabs
The Ministry of Public Health has warned that consuming mangrove horseshoe crabs or their eggs could be life threatening. According to the ministry, 33 people have suffered food poisoning and three others have died in the last five years after eating mangrove horseshoe crab eggs. Since February this year, seven people have fallen ill after mistaking mangrove horseshoe crabs for Southeast Asian horseshoe crabs, which are not poisonous. They reportedly experienced numbness in their hands, feet and tongue, as well as heart palpitations, nausea, and dizziness. Despite its name, the mangrove
horseshoe crab is more closely related to spiders and scorpions Spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Health Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong said the poisonous mangrove horseshoe crabs are smaller in size than the edible Southeast Asian horseshoe crabs. They also have either orange or dark brown bodies.
Dr. Opas warned that since the toxins found in their eggs cannot be neutralised in high temperatures, they are unsafe for consumption. Mangrove horseshoe crabs themselves are also especially poisonous from February to June, as the plankton they consume is also poisonous. – NNT HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
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What Causes Sexual Dysfunction?
Nobody wants to experience sexual dysfunction including women.
Sexual dysfunction can occur because of a variety of factors including psychological problems, vascular or nervous system disorders, use of certain medication (including depression or blood pressure treatments, heavy use of alcohol, and fatigue. However, one of the most common factors is low testosterone levels. Testosterone is the most important hormone in a group of male hormones. Women also have testosterone but less than men. It is produced from the testes in male, and from the ovarie in female. The pituitary gland controls the productivity of testosterone. Such productivity is usually slower when you grow older, which is why older people may have sexual dysfunction.
Low levels of testosterone reduces sexual desire in both men and women as well as the strength and density of bones and muscles. This increases the risk of osteoporosis and muscular dystrophy. The also makes it easier for fat to accumulate. Testosterone check-ups are most commonly done in the morning (7 am to 11 pm) because this is when testosterone as at it’s highest level. There are two types of tests; Total Testosterone and Free Testosterone. The latter checks on the active hormone, which makes this test more accurate in the examination. A testosterone check-up can be used to check sexual functionality in both men and women. It is given priority by doctors as lower testosterone level is a very common cause of sexual dysfunction.
Nonetheless, this does not mean that if your testosterone level is normal, you will not have sexual dysfunction. The other factors also need to be considered as they are independent of testosterone deficiency. Information provided by Healthlab Hua Hin
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visa@huahintoday.com 086-369-3604 HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
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16 HOUSE FOR RENT FAMILY HOUSE for rent THB 45,000 pm in Khao Tao Hua Hin Large 4 bedroom 4 bathroom single house with private pool and garden. Fully furnished, city water supply, and new kitchen. Safe area 12 minutes to Hua Hin shopping, 2 minutes to long beach, restaurants, spa and coffee shops. Call locally based owner direct 0818080698 or see photos at www.salerenthuahinhouse.com
House for Rent
THB 16k/month 3 bedroom detached bungalow in quiet but convenient location off Soi 102. Fully furnished and upgraded 3 bed/2 bath property within walking distance to 7/11, bars and cafes, Blue Port Mall and Hua Hin beach. Tel: 0633602317. (HFRH 1001) Beautiful House for Rent @ 40,000 THB, A high quality development, located in soi Hin lek fai and this house has a land area 312 sq.m and a living area 225 sq.m. With 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 air-cons, carport and landscaped gardens and a private swimming pool (3x6 metres). This house has been fully furnished with European Kitchen. To views please call: 086-369 3604 (LFS1006)LAND FOR SALE at Aow Noi, Prachuab Khiri Khan, 23 Rai 3 Ngan 72.5 Sq.Wah ,Selling pric@15 million THB or negotiable (approx. USD 429k), 1,500 THB per sqw, Currently is agriculture land with coconut trees 250 M from Khan Bandai Railway station 1.2 Km. to the beach, 3.5 Km. from Phechkasem Rd: Call at 086 369 3604 House for sale Stylish modern home for sale in Soi 116, Land size 780 Sq. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathroom, Car park for 4, big swimming pool with Jacuzzi and fully furnish, 24 security, nice neighborhood, this house is perfect for big family, convenience located in one of the best Village in Hua-Hin, For sale @15 Million THB. Call at 086 369 3604 House for quick sale House for quick sale only 3.2 Million THB, this house at Thipphawan Village 4 in Soi 58, one story house with 3 bedroom, 3 bathrooms, 3 air cons, kitchen, living room, garden, land size 280 Sqm, For quick sale only 3 Million THB. Please call @ 086 369 3604. House for rent and sale. House for rent and sale. For rent @ 60,000 and sale @ 13 Million THB. This pool Villa with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, with fitted western kitchen, 4 air cons, big swimming pool, Jacuzzi, this house in very good location in nice and 24 security at soi 116. Please call @ 086 369 3604.
Land for Sale Behind La Valle’e Village, 3 Million Baht per rai Tel: 087 401 4970
HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
HOUSE FOR SALE
SOUTH HUA HIN : LUXURY POOL VILLAS
The Park Oasis 2 pool villa for sale. 187 Sq.m. 3 Bedroom 3 Bathroom.From 5.4 Million THB. Black Lotus offers great hotel services such as a free shuttle to go to the downtown. It has also a communal swimming pool, fitness center, car park. To view please call 08 61 70 02 95 (THAI/EN) or 09 22 70 83 38 (FR/EN)
BRAND NEW DEVELOPMENT 560 SQ.M. TO 1,200 SQ.M. LARGE OPEN ISLAND KITCHEN 3 BEDROOM / 3 BATHROOM FULLY FURNISH 3.5 METER HIGH CEILING
Orchid Villa 4 pool villa for sale. 210 Sq.m. 3 Bedroom 2 Bathroom. From 8 Million THB. Great residence located in the backcountry, close to Black Mountain golf, with friendly atmosphere. Designed pool villas. Possibility of rental management. To view please call 08 61 70 02 95 (THAI/EN) or 09 22 70 83 38 (FR/EN) Great pool villa On soi 88 for resale. 330 Sq.m. 5 Bedroom 4 Bathroom. Land of 600 Sq.m. 10 395 Million THB. Great location, just 5 minutes from The Market Village. Modern and luminous house with a beautiful terrace. Ideal for a family. To view please call 08 61 70 02 95 (THAI/EN) or 09 22 70 83 38 (FR/EN) La Sierra pool villa On soi 102, for resale. 160 Sq.m. 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom. Land of 560 Sq.m. 6 420 Million THB. Located just a few minutes from the downtown and the beach. Good opportunity to buy in Hua Hin. To view please call 08 61 70 02 95 (THAI/EN) or 09 22 70 83 38 (FR/EN)
BUSSINESS OPPOTUNITY !! LONG STAY RESORT IN HUA HIN FOR SALE
There are 7 Buidings sit on 7 Rai Land with 2 Big Swimming, Fitness Center, Sauna Room, 36 Units (3,770 Sqm), 1 Unit for public toilet room(77 Sqm) Idea for holiday vacation or as long as long Term stay. It’s a great opportunity to buy now. For quick sale @ 180 Million Baht. Please call 086-398 3902
091-819-9810 ENG 080-840-8080 TH
www.sivanavillas.com info@sivanavillas.com @sivanavillas
Brand new house in New Private Pool Villa Project for sale. Located just 10 minutes south of Hua-Hin City Centre. These modern 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, walk in closet, living room, dining room, kitchen, pool terrace, swimming pool 4x9 meter, car park, roof deck, laundry and storage. This Pool Villa tastefully decorated functional design and layout with attention to details using high quality materials. Price started from 5 Million THB. www.lotushuahin.com To views please call @ 086 369 3604.
House for quick Sale The price was reduced recently to 12.9M baht, 250 Tarangwha (1,000 Sqm) which is fantastic valuation considering there is a fully functional and furnished 3 Bed Villa (these normally will sell for 9-10M) and fully functional and furnished 2 Bed Villa (these normally will sell for 7M-8.5M). The Villas have the amazing 22 meter infinity edge pool with sea views from the pool and terraces as well as roof terraces available for each villa. The Villas are also positioned so that there is no Villa directly in front from the row below giving the best views.The Land and House are Leased (30 + 30 +30) with 26 yrs remaining on the original 30yrs. Call 086-398 3902
STAFF WANTED We’re looking for a FULL TIME Live-In Maid with experience. We’ve 1 dog but no kids. We’ll provide Salary, Room / Housing, Food & 1 Day Off per week. Please contact K. Somboon at +66818133849.”
Beach Front House for Rent For Business or Private Use. Ideal for holiday vacation as well as long-term stay. Situated on 250 square wah of land (approx. 1,000 square metres) right by a tranquil beach near to the airport.There are 2 separate buildings in a true Hua Hin style. Each building has a bedroom, sea-view balcony and a bathroom. The large building also has a kitchen. A beach-side pavilion and a custodian house are also included in the premise. Houses are partly furnished and some renovations may be needed. 1-3 years contract is preferred. Call 086 369 3604
Condo for Rent at Baan Chay Talay Hua Hin Beach Resort is perfect for a family vacation line down on the beach front, swimming pool with many amenities and facilities, comfortable and convenience, close to Villa Market, Blue Port, 3 bedrooms, 4 air conditions, living room, 3 bathrooms, big balcony. For long term rent @ 50,000 THB per month. Please call : 086-398-3902
17 House and Land for Sale BY OWNER Full property for sale or can be subdivided and purchased individually • 1/4 Rai vacant land • 2 Large Bedrooms/3 Bathroom Pool Villa on 3/4 Rai • 3/4 Rai vacant land including a lake Concrete road access to each area. Call for Information or appointment (Courtesy to Tenant in house) Other Lands for sale 087-882 4453
Condo For Rent Modern PoolVilla In Hua Hin Modern 2 Stories Villa New Modern Pool Villa boasts private villas all fitted with a private pool, a garden and a terrace for relaxation. The villa is approximately 2 km from Khao Tao Beach. Fitted with floor-toceiling windows; the air-conditioned villas offer plenty of natural light. The kitchen is fully equipped with all the necessary tools and appliances for indoor cooking. These villas represent excellent value-for-money especially considering that each property has 3 bedrooms and 3 baths. opening out to the balcony overlooking pool and garden. Beds: 3 Living Area: 285 Sqm 13.9 M. THB: 3 Land Area: 584 Sqm Phone :+66(0)818593118
Luxurious Pool Villa for Sale A fabulous,luxury Villa for rent, in a very popular area of Hua Hin. Decorated to an exceptionally high standard, this 3 bedroom (plus maids room) villa sits only 1km from the beach and 2km from the centre of town. A fully fitted European kitchen is one of the benefits of this beautiful home, but the crowning feature is the folding doors that stretch the entire length of the living and dining room, opening on to an enormous terrace area making the entire living space open plan for a wonderful outdoor living feel. The swimming pool is 7 x 4 metre with a jacuzzi, which adjoins the master bedroom. Beds: 4 Living Area: 240 Sqm 7.5 M. THB : 2 Land Area: 600 Sqm Phone: +66(0)818593118
Nice condo, For Rent: 117.30 Sq.m. 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom. 55,000 THB. Baan Chay Talay is located 5 minutes from Hua Hin Beach and downtown. Spacious flat with a terrace and sea view. Residence with good services (swimmingpool, fitness, tennis…)
To view please call @ 086-369 3604
Baan Lonsai high rises condo for sale,
With full-front sea view, high ceiling, 2 large bedrooms, 2 large bathrooms, 3 large terraces, 1 large living room, 5 teak doors, and wooden floors, and 3 air cons, not furnished, allowing for your own selfstyled furniture designs, only 5-minute drive from downtown Hua Hin, including shopping centers. If you are looking for a wonderful home and also a far-sighted investment. Please call: 086-369 3604.
NICE CONDO PALM PAVILLIAN HUAHIN FOR SALE/RENT READY TO MOVE 68 Sqm. excellent one suite room with front lake view and sea view, a private short walk to the beach, modernfully furnished.with master bed, sofa bed, luxurious pantry, in great location opposite to Macro, nearby Anantara, ensuring happiness and peaceful with impressive climate and professional facilitation and services.
Please Call +66 (0)95-8962888, email:hrandtalent53@gmail.com
CROSSWORDS ANSWER 39 ACROSS : 1 Banana. 4 Album. 7 Out and away. 8 Acre. 9 Padre. 11 Highest. 13 Tabloid. 15 Tonic. 17 Keep. 18 Baton round. 20 Aroma. 21 Fitter. DOWN :
85 qm, 2 bed, 2 bath, 4 aircons, kitchen, w/ balcony, 8th floor, pool side with sea view, perfectly European style furnished at Hua Hin Soi 7. 18,000 BHT per month tel. 0819-812-997 or email.. debbelt2011@gmail.com STAFF WANTED Sale person & Customer service Skills: Good English command, spoken and written / Good interpersonal skills / Dynamic and willing to learn / Word, Excel Conditions: 1 day off + public holidays Salary: 15 K + expenses + commissions; according to profile Office located Petchakasem Road close by Soi 116, Own or at least motorbike car preferred Email: visa@huahintoday.com
Call 086 369 3604
House For Sale/Rent 316 Sqm, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, kitchen, furnished with small garden at Chookamon Resort. Close to Bus Station to Suvarnaphumi Airport and only 300 Meters walk to beach, 24 hours security.
For quick sale only 4.5 Million and for long term rent @ 13,000 Baht. To views: 086 344 1320
LAND FOR SALE Land for sale: This 1 Rai land super good location on Petchkrasem Road, the idea for Apartment or shop house, for sale @ 36 Milion THB. Please call @ 086 369 3604. Land for sale: This 2.8 Rai is perfect for Condominium or small Hotel in Takeab area, only 5 minutes walk to Takeab beach, for quick sale only 21 Million THB. To views please call @ 086 369 3604. Land for sale: This 10 rai of land in good location, only 600 Metters from Petchkrasem Road and the railway track, the idea for small housing project or Condominium, for sale @ 20 Milliuon THB per Rai. views please call @ 086 369 3604. Land for sale: nearby True Arena 326 Tarang wha, idea for Apartment for sale @ 17 Million THB. call @ 086 369 3604. Amost 4 Ria land for sale nearby True Arena for quick sale @ 22 Million THB, perfect for small hotel, Apartment, Please call 086 369 3604 for more detail.
Free From Mosquitoes at Last Thanks to the ‘Cri Cri’ Bug Zapper,
Europe’s favouite insect trap, now available in Hua Hin Manufactured by the Italian company Mo. El. If those pesky insects still disturb your ondoor or outdoor evenings; a bug zapper is the recommended way to go.
1 Bleach. 2 Ague. 3 Againt. 4 Add up. 5 Bow. 6 Maybe. 7 Oregon. 10 Doomed. 12 Take off. 14 Dapper. 15 Tibia. 16 Conga. 17 Knit. 19 Too.
CROSSWORDS ANSWER 40 ACROSS : 1 Disturbance. 7 Date. 8 Segment. 9 Pea. 10 Solve. 11 Shield. 13 Tissue. 16 Admin. 18 Sic. 19 Linctus. 20 Head. 21 Trendsetter. DOWN :
1 Dearth. 2 Staple. 3 Unsaid. 4 Bogus. 5 Needles. 6 Extreame. 11 Scarlet. 12 Immense. 13 Tussle. 14 Sachet. 15 Unfair. 17 Noted.
For more information visit Fans, Lights & More on Soi 112 across the road from MahaSamutr. Visit www.fanslightshuahin.com or phone 032 900 426
HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
18 Off-Beat Holidays in May
April Fool’s Day is over, Songkran is over, but in May there are many more ways to celebrate some special occasions; not always seriously. Here are this month’s off-beat ways you may wish to enjoy. May 4th Star Wars Day
May 11th Eat What You Want Day
Your Country’s National Day
What is the point of being a nation, if there is no independence, Independence is what makes a nation the nation. To honour independence we begin our countdown of National Days for the month of May.
May 4th Latvia Independence Day
Star Wars Day is May 4th because of a famous quote from the hugely popular science fiction series blockbuster: “May the Force (Fourth) be with you”. Great ways to Celebrate Star Wars Day: Watch any of the great Star Wars movies or have a Star Wars marathon, and watch two or three of them. Get out your laser sword and practice for the next invasion from the Evil Empire. Have a Star Wars costume party.
What would you like to have to eat today? Okay, great.....health permitting go ahead and have any of your favorite foods and snacks. Because today is Eat What You Want Day. Eat What You Want Day is definitely not a day for diets. It is one single, solitary day in the year to go off your diet and eat something you really enjoy, Today, you can set aside your dietary “No-No” list. Today, you can splurge.
On this day Latvia restored its independence from the Union of Soviet Socialist Republic in 1990 which was lost in 1940’s upon Soviet Union’s annexation. May the waving flags be forever on Latvia’s side, Happy Restoration of Independence Day!
May 17th Norway Constitution Day
May 13th Blame Someone Else Day
May 5th Oyster Day
Oysters are a shellfish found in both freshwater and saltwater. They often produce pearls, making Oyster Day a real gem. Do all oysters develop a pearl? No, but wouldn’t it be great to open one up to find a sparkling pearl!? Oysters are a delicacy, enjoyed by many. Some folk love oysters, especially the “upper crust”. Others find oysters to be an acquired taste. Celebrate Oyster Day by eating oysters, Or, buy some pearls for yourself or that special someone. May 6th National Tourist Appreciation Day
What a great time you can have on this day. Imagine all the problems, errors, and mistakes you could heap on someone else today. On this day you don’t have to take responsibility, or the blame, for any faux pas on your part. On the downside, this day comes as a double edged sword. While you are busy putting the blame elsewhere, someone might just be putting the blame on you! May 14th Dance Like a Chicken Day
The Constitution of Norway was signed on May 17th 1814. The constitution declared Norway to be an independent kingdom in an attempt to avoid being ceded to Sweden after Denmark–Norway’s devastating defeat in the Napoleonic Wars. The Second World War ended in Norway nine days before that year’s Constitution Day, on May 8, 1945, when the occupying German forces surrendered. Even if The Liberation Day is an official flag day in Norway, the day is not an official holiday and is not widely celebrated. Instead, a new and broader meaning has been added to the celebration of Norwegian Constitution Day.
May 20th Cuba Independence Day
It is arguable that on May 20th, 1902, Cuba stopped being a Spanish colony but instead turn into a neo colony of United States of America. Only on January 1st, 1959 when Commander in Chief Fidel Castro announced the triumph of the Cuban Revolution, true independence came on about. But 20th May is still celebrated as ‘Patriotic day’.
May 20th East Timor Independence Day
If you are a tourist today, expect to be pampered. But, wait a minute. As a tourist, you should be pampered every day, period. Vacations are too infrequent, and too far in between. When you go away on vacation, and spend good, hard earned money, you expect and deserve to be treated well. You have earned (and are paying for) the right to be coddled, pampered and attended to. If these tourist spots don’t know about the holiday, let them know about it in advance. Then, plan your vacation to coincide with today’s holiday. When you book your reservations, say something like “I’d like to make a reservation on National Tourist Appreciation Day, for........”. They will quickly get the picture. HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
Dance Like a Chicken Day is for those who like to do the “Chicken Dance”. All ‘ya gotta do is dance like a chicken. While any dance song will do, there’s no dance like the Chicken dance. It’s tradition at every wedding reception to play and to dance the Chicken Dance. It gets people of all ages up dancing and mingling. It puts a smile on everyone’s face. The Chicken Dance is not limited to weddings. It is also played at other social events where there is a band and dancing.
In 1999, following the United Nations-sponsored act of self-determination, Indonesia relinquished control of the territory. East Timor became the first new sovereign state of the 21st century on 20 May 2002 and joined the United Nations and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries.
May 26th Georgia Independence Day
Georgia was declared independent from Russian Empire on May 26, 1918, but the country became a part of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republic later in 1922, only to regain independence following the dissolution of the USSR in 1991.
19 Visakha Bucha Day or Wan Pra Yai
marks the three important incidents in the life of Lord Buddha on the same day – the full moon of the sixth lunar month. These memorable events are commemorated by Thai Buddhists and Buddhists all over the world:
The Royal Ploughing Ceremony to Welcome a Bountiful Harvest
The Royal Ploughing Ceremony is an ancient fertility rite annually held in many Asian countries, including Thailand. The ceremony, occurring on 14th May, officially marks the beginning of the rice growing season.
It is said that the first time rituals of Visakha Bucha Day were seen in Thailand was during the Sukhothai period. Sri Lankan monks visited Thailand to spread Buddhism; in return Thai monks also visited Sri Lanka. In all probability, these Thai monks initiated this Memorial Day in Thailand. Long before this, rituals of Visakha Bucha Day were already seen in Buddhism’s motherland, India.
3. The Nibbana - The Buddha passed away on the Vesak full moon day in the Sala Grove of the Mallas in Kusinara, the capital of the Malla state, (nowadays located in Kusinagara of Uttrarapradesa, India) at the age of eighty years (around 2547 years ago).
The Three Significant Events 1. The Buddha’s Birth 2. The Enlightenment of Buddha – While sitting under the Bodhi tree, he attained enlightenment at the age of 35 years. 1,250 of his ordained followers spontaneously gathered to hear Him give a sermon, at which he established the basic tenants of the monastic order - the Sangha.
The day is recognised as most important Memorial Day in Buddhism recognised by UNESCO in 1999 as a World Heritage Day. The date varies from year to year; this year it is Tuesday, May 29th.
Re-organising the Hua Hin Night Market is Not Over Yet
Neither tourists nor locals are happy with the new layout of the Hua Hin Night Market but the Hua Hin municipality has confirmed the need to wait for a period of two months to fully consider the new layout.
After deciding that the layout must change, Mr. Montree Chupoo, Deputy Mayor of Hua Hin and Mr. Jeerawat Pramanee, Permanent Secretary of the Municipality with five local officials, enforced traders to set up their shops with a new layout at the market. This new format required shops to be back-to back with a walk way on two sides rather than a walkway in the centre; a big change after almost 50 years of operation. “Today’s atmosphere is good and without altercations between entrepreneurs and the owners of commercial buildings as before. Entrepreneurs who disagree with the new layout but must follow the resolution of the Municipality” said Mr Montree.
Most visitors are not satisfied with the new layout, describing it as inconvenient because they now have to walk around the market twice. Mrs.Pinthip Plubngam and Mrs. PoumThong Plubngam, the owner of a clothing store said,” the new pathway layout has less market space and there are different levels between the footpath and the road. It is difficult to move the goods in and out and also take more time to for store preparation”. The Hua Hin municipality will continue to evaluate the new layout being mindful of the complaints from the owners of roadside commercial buildings that have long been affected by the night market, in particular the issue of access for fire or emergency vehicles including ambulances.
The common name of the Royal Ploughing Ceremony is Raek Na Khwan which literally means the “auspicious beginning of the rice growing season”. The royal ceremony is called Phra Ratcha Phithi Charot Phra Nangkhan Raek Na Khwan which literally means the “royal ploughing ceremony marking the auspicious beginning of the rice growing season”. Both Buddhist and Hindu Brahmin ceremonies are involved in the Thai festival, where monks from each religion bless the planting. The ceremony is held on the field and public square called “Sanam Luang”, in the centre of Bangkok and in front of the royal palace. The royal planting occurs at the outset of rice-growing season and involves
two sacred oxen pulling a decorative plough, while traditionally costumed men accompany and plant rice in the furrow. The oxen is also fed rice, grass, other foods, and given rice-whiskey to drink. Based on what the oxen choose to eat when given multiple foods to choose from, astrologers then predict if it’s going to be a good rice-growing season ahead. In 1957, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony was declared as a public holiday. It is typically presided over by the reigning monarch, but in recent years it has been overseen by Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn who in now King Rama X. The ceremony focuses on honoring the bond between the King, the government, and the farmers who sustain the country.
Management of the Water Supply at the Local Level Needs Improvements
Members of the Hua Hin Municipal Executive have visited and checked the water supply system of The Provincial Waterworks Authority at Khao Sawoei Rat. Their report suggests that treatment of raw water is satisfactory; however improvements are still required at the local level.
Mr. SiraphanKamolpamot, an advisor of the Hua Hin Mayor, accompanied by Miss PailinPongpun, deputy of Hua Hin mayor visited of the Provincial Waterworks Authority at Khao Sawoei Rat (Tab-Tai area), with by Mr. Prachob Chartthong demonstrating the facilities. Mr. Prachob said that untreated from the Pranburi Dam is held in storage tanks before the water is purified and filtered. The last step is to collect samples to be sent to the lab for a scientific examination by the Department of Health. Approved water is released together with chlorine liquid into the main pipeline to distribute to the public. This includes Tambon Tab-Tai,Tambon Hin Lek Fai, Tambon Sam Phraya, Cha-Am and the Pranburi area. Mr. Prachob said that calculations for the water tariff depends on the type of user; normal domestic users with not more than 10 units per month then will pay for 11 THB per unit, with commercial users at 19 to 29
THB per unit dependent upon the usage. He believes the Provincial Waterworks Authority is providing a good service, clean water and maintaining care of the service supply 24 hours a day. Mr. Siraphan said that for the subsequent management of the water supply in Hua Hin is still ineffective with little maintenance of the equipment used for the filtering and distribution systems. He believes there are still problems with accidental leakages and that sediment has remained in water storage tanks. “I went to visit and check the quality and standard of the water supply of Nong Kae, Khoang and Dannon Kasem and found that the management of the water supply was still not up to standard. I h ave s e e n i m p rove m e n t s i n performance and quality however improvements are still required and this will be reported to the Mayor of Hua Hin” said Siraphan. HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
20 F Fashion Brand is a New Solution
for Modern Women Who don’t Like Routine
There is no limit in what they choose to wear for work but yet still appropriate. The brand has a variety of clothing in different styles for making it more fun in dressing up such as flowy wide-legged pants stylishly matched with a sleeveless red blouse, a red jumpsuit worn on top of a boat-neck black blouse with a see-through short sleeves, a cold-shoulder black dress, a black v-neck jumpsuit with vertical stripes, a pair of navy blue wide-legged pants with side stripes and much more. It represents traits of smart, cool with a pinch of sexiness in the style of working zapp women. We help women to create their own sense of style. Store location : 1st floor at Ladies’Boutique @Blu’Port HuaHin Follow us on www.facebook.com/.ffashionthailand/
Exploring Unseen Regional Roads
There is a group of friends of different nationalities living in Hua Hin that enjoy riding together on small motorbikes (max. 150 cc) exploring around Hua Hin and sharing some good laughs.
Bikerboys is not about biking for the speed but for touring/adventure rides to discover new places and share travel experiences. Every 2 weeks there is a one day trip starting from Hua Hin with a distance of around 150-200 km. Each ride takes place on the 1st and the 3rd Sunday of the month. The meeting place is at the parking area of the Big C supermarket and participation is free of charge. Bikerboys also have 2-or 3-day tours or longer, sometimes travelling by car or train to a destination where bikes are rented for a bigger tour. In March the group under took a trip starting with travel to Chiang Mai followed by 6 riding days on the Mae Hong Son Loop. This tour is famous for having 1,864 bends along its approx. 650 kilometres. It cut through some of northern Thailand’s most spectacular scenery with amazing views, challenging roads, great places to stay and remote hill tribe settlements. Just for good measure, the highest mountain in Thailand was included; approached through an avenue of fragrant rhododendrons. The group started in November last year and has experienced making trips to many beautiful spots around Hua Hin. This is open to all bikers, male and female, with a HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
motorcycle licence. Some experience in motorbike driving is necessary. The priority is safety; therefore riders are given a short briefing on the rules of riding safely in a group before starting a tour. This is à non-commercial activity with participation free of charge. Of course this is at rider’s own risk and participants should have their own insurance.
A few weeks ago two new destinations west of Hua Hin were introduced between Pranburi Dam and the Myanmar border. There is a fascinating forested and mountainous area with some agricultural activities such as pineapple, coconut and rubber plantations. Some new winding roads have been built recently and riding on a bike there gives the feeling of being in another world. Two new itineraries have been named “little Switzerland” and “little Africa” as some landscapes have similarities with those countries. May Program Sunday 13th May: Scenic Roads West of Hua Hin Loop West of Hua Hin: Pranburi Dam, African Road, Pala U, Monsoon Valley Vineyard – 180 kilometres Meeting at 9.00 AM at the Parking Area, Big C Sunday 27th May: Amphawa Floating Market Cha-Am, Phetchaburi, Samut Songkhran, Amphawa Floating Market - 220 kilometres Meeting at 08.00 AM at the Parking Area Big C For More Information: Telephone Robert 0926125609, email: sikkens2011@gmail.com Facebook: Bikerboys Hua Hin
21
Trees Turned To Stone in Tak Province
The longest worldwide petrified tree has been discovered in the Bantak Petrified Forest Park, measuring 2 metres in diameter and over 72 metres long. Bantak Petrified Forest Park is located in Tak Province, in the west of northern Thailand.
Petrification is the result of a tree having completely transitioned to stone with all the organic materials replaced with minerals while retaining the original structure of the plant material A large petrified log, partially exposed for about 1 metre, was found by a villager in a forest at Ban Tak District, Tak Province, in October 2003. The discovery of the petrified wood was reported to the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department,
under the administration of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. An officer from the department subsequently came to examine the petrified log and survey the surrounding area. The petrified log was further excavated and the trunk was exposed to a length of 21 metres without reaching the upper end. Many additional pieces of petrified wood were found scattered in the surrounding area covering 35 square kilometres or more. Some pieces were found on the soil surface and some only partly exposed with problems being experienced with people illegally removing sections to be sold as souvenirs. These fossil trees are very important in terms of scientific value. They help to understand the diversity of ancient trees, paleobiogeography of plants, the climate and environment of the past, including geological changes through time. www.facebook.com/pg/ savingfossiltreesthailand
Dogs at Hua Hin Dog Care Centre are Assisted by Private Agencies
Daiper General Apparel Ltd. and Greatest Pet Care Ltd have provided donations to help dogs at the Hua Hin Dog Care Centre
Last month at the Hua Hin Dog Care Centre, Mr. Nopporn Wutikul, Mayor of Hua Hin, accompanied by Miss Bussaba Choksuchart, Mayor and Mr. Somsak Krarunapitak, Head of Hua Hin Dog Care Centre received donations of 30,000 THB from Miss Pramornthip Sripaisan, Managing Director, Dapper General Apathy Co., Ltd. and also 600 Kilogram of dog food from Mr. Amornthep Rojjanasuebsak, assistant general Manager of Greatest Pet Care Ltd. This is for help take care of 1,200 dogs at the centre as there is a shortage of food and medicine. “We are the manufacturer of the products such as clothing, leather godds and shoes under brand name of “dipper” with
products for sale in first- class department stores in Bangkok, other provinces and Market Village and Blúport. The company has campaigning for 2 monthes (Febuary and March) and deducting from sales at every branch and collected it all at the head office in Bangkok, which has accumulated 300,000 THB to donate” said Pramornthip. Apart from the two companies mentioned above, Mr. Tawee Kaesangam, owner of Baan Silapin has helped support this cause. Mr. Nopporn said that the Hua Hin Dog Centre has many problems with dog care expenses and any donations would be gratefully accepted. HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
22
Traditionally newspapers around the world have published letters received from readers with their opinions about a variety of subjects. In recent years social media may have overshadowed this way of making comment; however Hua Hin Today often receives emails from our readers or comments posted on our Facebook page. Thanks for your contributions! Our readers are always encouraged to provide a point of view, however we ignore aggressive, abusive or defamatory comments. editor@huahintoday.com Dear Sir; happy Songkran While people enjoying splashing on the street, a group of monkeys enjoyed a party in my house located in a development in Hin-Lek-Fai area.
They came through an unlocked screen door on the second floor. My cats are scared, foods stolen (not so many but cat food), miller broken, TV fallen, a lot shit.... We returned home 2 pm and work very hard until 9 or 10 pm to clean-up. Still smells slightly.... It was on 13th and on 15th, they come back. They stayed some 3 hours around the garden and stole a lot of papayas from the neighbour’s garden. According to the news article on July 3, 2017, Thai authority took action against monkey problem in this area. I just would like you to follow the situation, I mean whether the project was successful, will they continue the project, what area will carry out the project and so-on. Tak From the Editor Dear Khun Tak My commiserations; encounters with wild animals aren’t always pleasant as farmers have discovered with roaming elephants. The problem is we have invaded their ever decreasing habitat; they aren’t thieves, just hunter/gathers. Fruitful pickings (such as papayas) or food from your kitchen will encourage a return visit. Listed deterrents include rubber snake toys, a radio sounding like people are at home (Richard from Surf 102.5 is a recognised monkey deterrent!), the recording of a dog barking or a chilli spray on fruit may help.
There has been a significant reduction in the local monkey population from the efforts of the municipality but complete eradication is both unlikely and undesirable. We’ll pass on your letter to see if more action can be taken. In the meantime your security both from a simian or human home invasion may need to be reconsidered.
Dear Editor
I would like to forward my concerns about the problems of pedestrian crossings which I see almost everyday on central Phetchakasim Road Hua Hin. This is about the poor marking of pedestrian crossings but also drivers who have no respect of right of way of pedestrians. I have now decided not to stop unless there is either an attendant or a red light signal present. That is because a pedestrian on a crossing walking passed my stopped car
was almost killed by a van speeding through in the next lane. Even though I had legally (and courteously) stopped for the pedestrian, stopping almost led to a tragedy. There are also crossings with traffic lights (outside the Bangkok Hospital and Blúport) where the red light is constantly ignored. I recently witnessed a large tour bus driving at speed straight through a red light after I had the time to stop for several seconds. Drivers behind my stopped vehicle sometimes get angry and attendants may want me to drive off before the red light turns green; but red means STOP; even if no pedestrians can be seen. My advice to pedestrians; please don’t think that marked crossings or even a green light offers any form of safety or protection including when a vehicle in one lane is giving way; it’s likely that others won’t care.
Thanks Louise From the Editor Dear Louise
I can only agree with your concerns and advice to pedestrians. The mindset of drivers in Thailand towards pedestrian crossings is very different to those in most western countries. All concerns offered to us about road safety issues are passed on to the relevant authorities. However this is a country-wide problem which needs a long term reeducation campaign and consistent enforcement before changes could be expected.
Hua Hin Hotel Occupancy down 20-30% Foreigners traveling to Thailand with members of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) totaled 1.46 million from Jan 1 to March 20, a 16% gain from the same period last year, says ATTA president Vichit Prakobkosol.
China remained the top source market with 870,720 visitors, a 29% rise, followed by South Korea with 72,546 (+8.7%), India with 55,618 (+18.3%) and Japan with 55,078, (+17.7%). Tourists from Russia recorded a 42% drop to 46,797 visitors. China contributed nearly 60% of total arrivals. Supawan Tanomkieatipume, president of the Thai Hotels Association (THA), said that despite the tourism boom, many hotel operators are unable to increase room rates because of tough competition and a glut of rooms. This year, hotels in Hua Hin and Chaam have experienced significant drops, as many Westerners shifted to Phuket. Average occupancy rates for the two resort towns fell from 80-90% to 60-65% during the first quarter this year, Supawan said. “Hotel operators said if they increase room rates, they will not get customers,” she said. “They are keeping their attractive prices.” HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
The average room rate for a five-star hotel in Bangkok is 4,720 THB, while it is 2,066 THB for a small hotel, 1,800 THBt for a hotel in Hua Hin, 2,600 THB for Pattaya, 1,120 THB for the upper Northeast and 5,800 for Phuket. – Bangkok Post
23 Farewell Letter : My life on the Dusit Thani Stage
Dear friends and colleagues, I thought I would die on the Dusit Thani stage, but it has come to pass that the hospitality theatre has moved on with the times and my final curtain call will also be my swansong before stepping out of the limelight which is now governed by an accountant led hospitality ethos. An ethos far removed from that of the hotel and hospitality boom years and heydays when I was a young, enthusiastic freshman eager to learn and please on the Dusit Thani Bangkok Front desk more than 40-years ago. There I would stand, smiling resplendently in my red livery, greeting guests with a cute twinkle in my eye and a naive assumption of what my career ahead would entail. Back then, there were the performers – front of house, the stagehands – back of the house and then the directors and producers who seemingly floated above the operation up in the gods, looking down from the royal box or upper circle, ensuring everything was going according to the programme. Above all this was the owner, a person with passion, foresight and motherly firmness that kept us on the right lines and ensured we kept to script. I was inspired, impassioned and doggedly determined to one day secure a leading role in one of Dusit’s finest productions. It turned out that my dreams would be fulfilled, not in ‘Hamlet’ or ‘Hello Dolly’, but Dusit Hua Hin. It was my personal privilege when in late 1988, impresarios Khun Khampi Suwanarat, Khun Chanin Donavanik, and particularly Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui entrusted me to open a new production in a new venue. And what a long-running production it turned out to be. The set construction and rehearsals began 2-years before our grand premier in 1990, entitled ‘Dusit Resort and Polo Club’, still referred to by many seasoned thespians as ‘Dusit Polo’. The audiences loved it, with many returning over and over again and the young Front Desk understudy was now in the leading role, collecting awards and accolades throughout decades of varied guest star and themed productions, some would be one offs and others to become annual legendary events such as New Year Galas. Even ASEAN summits would be played out with a supporting cast of international statesmen and aired to a world press. Royal Command Performances became regular occurrences, with one famous occasion when His Majesty King Bhumibol honoured us by jamming with the Polo Bar Jazz Band and graciously granted permission for photos with Thanpuying Chanut and the hotel cast.
Soon, there was TV channel celebrities partying and famous faces at all major productions. Gala nights featured Lake of Fantasy Spectaculars and stars of stage, TV and film would perform in support of and for their own pleasure of participating in what had become socially prestigious productions. The theatre of five-star hospitality is popular for its grandeur, luxury, attention to detail and not least impeccable service, the technique of acting the part with skill, flair and charisma. The front of house team and performers are like serene swans gracefully gliding through a shimmering theatre of opulent living. All the while, the back of the house is the webbed feet of the swan, an unseen Swan Lake continuous ballet, paddling furiously below the surface to keep the pace, direction and performance up to standard. I may have enjoyed the leading role, but without the supporting actors the show could not have gone on. There have been players and understudies that have performed to packed houses matinee after matinee, night after night, each curtain raise made special for the audience. This is professionalism in action and I cannot thank each and every one of you enough for you continued support and loyalty over the years.
From day one, together we formed a Dusit family, welcoming and nurturing newcomers along the way. I opened my heart to my new hotel family with a passion for hospitality and dedication to imparting what I had learned to others so that they too could bring pride to their skills and be an asset to their profession. Each and every one of the staff share equal responsibility and compliments for their incredible contribution to the Dusit Thani Hua Hin. If the gardeners and engineers did not keep the stage set looking amazing, who would venture in to enjoy the show? If the housekeepers did not buff the brass who would wow the auditorium? If the kitchen cast were to spoil the broth and theatre attendants fail to charm the audience, what would become of the theatre? The Show must go on and each and every one had their part to play, big or small all were just as important as each other. I have been blessed with a wonderful huge cast over the years, too many to mention individually, but not too many for me to remember each one with unreserved gratitude and pride. Thank you all.
My gratitude to Dusit began with and finishes with the founder, whose ethos and example changed my life, plus my mentor, Khun Khampi, who gave me the chance and opportunity to prove myself worthy. All good things must come to an end in order for progress so that new good things may replace them. Thank you Dusit and long may the Dusit Thani name be synonymous with hospitality at its very best. To the people who have stood by and supported me over the years, I thank you and extend my most sincere good wishes and as did mine, may all your dreams come true and aspirations be fulfilled. I am not saying goodbye, just retiring from my leading role. Au revoir, Victor Sukseree Retiree (Almost!) HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
24 Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa Maintains Unbroken Thailand Tourism Standard Status Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa recently received the latest Thailand Tourism Standard certification (2017-2020), having held the rigorously researched and widely recognised status continuously since it welcomed its first guests over 10 years ago in 2007. The certificate was received by Mr. Bruce Dupuis, General Manager, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa and heads of department. “We are delighted and honored to once again be recognised for our international standards that put guest experience, including of course safety, absolutely first,” Mr. Dupuis commented. “As one of only two hotels in Hua Hin to hold the certification, we are especially gratified. At the same time we are inspired and motivated to continue to aim for the highest and always be the best we can”. Since 2006, Thailand’s Department of Tourism has developed 52 official standards related to the tourism industry. The standard cover five categories: accommodations, tourism services, tourism businesses and tour guides, tourist activities, and tourist attractions. The standards are aimed at improving Thailand competitiveness of the world-class tourist destination. The Department of tourism has worked closely with several other concerned agencies, both in developing standards and carrying out assessments leading to the certification of establishments which meet the necessary requirements.
Mr. Bruce Dupuis, General Manager, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa and heads of department
InterContinental Hua Hin Resort Pairs Classic 2018
A truly top-flight golf event returns for more best-ball excitement. Guests staying at InterContinental Hua Hin Resort during the June tournament will find no better way to enjoy the weekend. Following the success of 2017’s inaugural event from across the region, this year InterContinental Hua Hin Resort, Siam PGA Holidays and Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin are delighted to present InterContinental Hua Hin Resort Pairs Classic 2018. The pairs best-ball, 18-hole stroke play tournament will be held the weekend of 22-24 June 2018 at Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin. Banyan’s course and facilities have been named by Asian Golf Monthly as among the region’s best for three years running, and has been featured in Rolex’s list of the top 1,000 courses in the world. Partner Siam PGA Holidays brings considerable expertise as a full-service travel company providing professional golf holiday arrangements for discerning customers throughout Thailand. Michael Janssen, General Manager of InterContinental Hua Hin Resort commented, “We are delighted to be hosting the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort Pairs Classic 2018 this year and look forward to welcoming golf aficionados coming from Thailand and overseas. The first InterContinental Hua Hin Resort Pairs Classic in 2017 was a tremendous success and we expect the tournament to enhance Hua Hin’s reputation as Thailand’s premier destination for golfers.” Guests also have the chance to win lucky draw prizes during Friday’s lunch at Banyan Golf Club and Saturday’s Beachcomber BBQ dinner. Prizes include two nights at InterContinental the Pattaya Resort, InterContinental Bangkok, InterContinental Samui Baan Taling-Ngam Resort or Holiday Inn Vana Nava Hua Hin in addition to other prizes. For additional information, please contact: Siam PGA Holidays at enquire@thailandgolf.com or InterContinental Hua Hin Resort at ichh.rsvn@ihg.com.
New Resident Manager at Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin
Centara Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce that Mr. Jan Weisheit has been appointed as a new Resident Manager for Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin, one of the most sought-after destinations in the city. Graduating with an apprenticeship for Food and Beverage from the Schlosshotel Reinhardsbrunn in Germany, Jan also has different levels of teaching and training expertise. His career has included working with many international chain hotels across the globe before eventually taking him to Hua Hin for the position of Director of Food & Beverage, then promoted to Executive Assistant Manager at the Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin.
Ryan Guffey Appointed Director of Webster University Thailand Ryan Guffey has been appointed director of Webster University Thailand, as announced by Peter Maher, associate vice president of Academic Affairs, International Campuses and Initiatives at Webster University in St. Louis. He will begin his new role on June 8, 2018. Guffey holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Management, & Non-Profit Administration from Lindenwood University, a master’s degrees in Political Science from the Queen’s University of Belfast, Ireland, an MBA from Lindenwood University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education and Leadership from St. Louis University. In addition, he is a graduate of Harvard’s Institute of Educational Management program. Throughout his career in higher education, Guffey has held several positions at Lindenwood University, and most recently has served as associate vice president of Global Education. His experience in Thailand includes a Fulbright Teaching and Consultant Fellowship at Chulalongkorn University, a highly ranked institution in Bangkok. “Webster has such a remarkable international mission and vision,” Guffey said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the exceptional faculty, staff, students and Thai community. With locations in Bangkok and Cha-Am, students receive a first-rate education in one of the world’s major metropolitan centers, as well as a stunning resort community. I envision great things ahead for the campuses.”
Mr. Weisheit is well known by the regular guests at the hotel and is a strong leader with expertise in all management aspects of the hotel’s operations. He is a great asset to Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin and with this new role he will continue to provide guests with memorable experiences and uphold the traditions of which Centara Hotels & Resorts is very proud, while striving to further enhance service quality and brand value into the future with his extensive knowledge and experience.
Dusit Thani Hua Hin Appoints New General Manager Dusit Thani Hua Hin, one of Thailand’s most distinguished resort properties, is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Pipat Patthananusorn as General Manager. A Thai national, Khun Pipat brings with him more than 22 years of managerial experience in luxury hotel chains since starting his career in the Sales Department of Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok. Spells with Royal Orchid Sheraton, Four Seasons and Anantara Siam followed, serving as the Executive Assistant Manager of the latter. He also had a stint as General Manager of Pacific World Bangkok, a leading destination management company. Khun Pipat holds a Master’s Degree in Managerial Technology and a Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management from Johnson & Wales University RI, USA. Outside of his own career, he makes a concerted effort to ensure that the hotel industry as a whole benefits from his expertise, with recognition for his contribution when in 2008, he was elected to the Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA)’s Executive Board of Directors as Co-Chairperson of the Service Development Committee, a position he still holds. HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
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26 Add Some Colour to Your Life at Kaeng Krachan National Park
May through to June every year is butterfly season. Kaeng Krachan National Park provides the ideal environment to see magnificent displays of these colourful creatures. There are over 300 species of butterflies that can be found in the park. At this time of the year they flock together around areas which still have patches of moist ground which become salty and provide the best conditions for butterflies to feed and warm their wings on the sunlight. Later in the day they are more easily alarmed and take to the wing before they can be closely observed. The best time to observe butterflies is around 8.00 AM in the morning although this varies between species so anything between 8 and 10 AM or even later is OK.
Ban Krang camp is one of the best viewing areas. However park visitors can find butterflies eating on flowers, especially, of shrubs along pathways or wet areas, on wet sand and soil near streams, and other large butterfly feeding places. They may take flight and quickly fly off in a cloud of colour when disturbed, but some patience may be rewarding as they are likely to soon land nearby. Well prepared visitors who are quiet and move slowly will find butterfly more easily. Dress to be harmonious with nature and not so easily observed by the butterflies. You will get closer with green, gray or brown coloured outfits. It is also worth considering long sleeved shirts and full-length trousers
for protection and comfortable shoes to prevent against insect bites and the rough terrain. And of course don’t forget your camera. The colours on mass display are amazing and well worth composing that perfect shot. You can call the park for more information at 032 459 293.
A British Spotlight on Thailand’s Wild Animal Tourism British publication ‘The Sun’ recently published information on what it describes as “Thailand’s zoo horrors” with graphic photographs of emancipated animals shackled in cages being forced to perform for tourists in “sheer cruelty that passes for entertainment in Thailand.”
The April article describes “orangutans being forced to fight in boxing rings with gloves strapped to their hands; an elephant performs tricks on a stone stage and then locked up in hellish conditions.” Environmental photojournalist Aaron Gekoski claims to have witnessed the shows on a tour of the country’s zoos and is now campaigning for restrictions on the industry. He comments that “the orangutans are forced into hideous pantomime routines. For some reason, people found it funny HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
watching these beautiful, sentient, intelligent animals having their pants pulled down or pretending to fight each other.” “The orangutans are not doing it because they want to; they are doing it because they are forced to. One can only imagine how these animals were trained in order to perform like this. “What I witnessed was shocking and incredibly distressing. It really was a wildlife house of horrors.” Bangkok’s Pata Zoo, Safari World and the Phuket Zoo were three examples used to comment on Thailand’s wildlife tourism industry with claims that more than half a million animals worldwide are subjected to horrific abuse in order to entertain. The Safari World website illustrates wild animal tourism promotion; “Who could miss the world’s first and only orangutan boxing show starring the funniest and hairiest champions of the Olympics?” proclaims the website. British-born Geroski, a wildlife photographer of the year, now plans to return to Thailand to shoot a documentary exposing the alleged abuses and is crowd funding his next visit. He says: “a long-term goal is to create a global platform so tourists can ‘raise the red flag’ on abusive operators by posting photos, videos and reviews - a little like Trip Advisor, but focused on Wildlife Tourism. Tourists are being urged to support this campaign by acknowledging that “change is possible when people vote with their feet and don’t visit these places.”
Some photos used by ‘The Sun’ to support animal cruelty claims
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Hua Hin, Cha-Am, Pranburi
May 2018
Zap those Pesky AND Dangerous Insects
‘Fans, Lights and More’ is a company name that begs a question. The question is; what is ‘More’? Imported bug zappers that really work is one of the answers. We’ve all experienced those very irritating insects that prevent you from enjoying evenings with the appearance of mosquitos or other biting insects. This may result in householders wildly waving their arms or perhaps waving one of those tennis racquet look-alikes in desperate attempts to avoid itchy red blotches or more seriously, the debilitating and sometimes life-threatening mosquito borne dengue fever.
Enjoying the great outdoors at last! Fans, Lights and More Co Ltd Director, Jochen Scholtes, believes he has an answer to this problem as the sole importer of the ‘Cri Cri’ Bug Zapper manufactured by the Italian company Mo.El. Jochen discovered this product as a long term resident of Hong Kong. He had purchased a zapper for personal protection against severe mosquito problems being experienced and it worked! Jochen discovered that the motivation for production was not about human protection, but as a solution to insects affecting Italian pigs needing to be healthy for the production of prosciutto, the dry-cured ham. However the need for human protection soon became obvious.
Insect problems followed Jochen to Thailand some four years ago and enquiries to the Italian company resulted in him becoming the sole importer here.
Three standard sizes cover areas of five, ten or fifteen square metres The bug zapper is a device that attracts and kills flying insects and more formally called an electrical discharge insect control system. A bluish coloured near ultraviolet light attracts insects to the light that are electrocuted (“zapped”) by a high voltage grid. The design includes a collection tray where the dead insects accumulate. From dusk ‘til dawn, homeowners can hear the satisfying crackle of insects meeting their maker. Bug zappers, including the ‘tennis raquet look-alike’, may be available in local markets at low cost but also low quality versions. From personal experience neither the results nor the rapid failure of these products makes them a good investment.
Like many my usual relaxation space adjoins a balcony with sliding doors which are always open. I resented having to smother myself with insect repellent cream or spray as the sunset approached but those days are over. My bug zapper sits alongside my balcony barbeque (pictured left) at the recommended one metre above the floor; far enough away to lure insects before they come for me. Long before body odours are detected, the mosquito attraction to humans is CO2 that everyone exhales. Mosquitos can detect CO2 from about 50 metres away. There’s not much you can do about that, but a bug zapper can be a fatal intervention! Insect protection should include finding and eliminating the source of the problem, such as standing water or unsanitary areas; and repairing entry points, such as torn screens, unfitted doors or windows. But if those pesky insects still disturb your evenings; a bug zapper is the recommended way to go. For more information visit Fans, Lights & More Co. Ltd. on Soi 112 across the road from MahaSamutr. Visit: www.fanslightshuahin. com or phone 032 900 426
2 30 New Residential Leasing Law: Who Wins, Who Loses The royal Thai government gazette issued on the 16th February 2018 created a wide panic among condominium owners who rent out their assets, condominium developers, and apartment operators across the country.
The gazette unveiled the government’s plan to enact a new law that will turn residential leasing into a contract-controlled business from the 1st of May 2018. While it is apparent that lessees of residential property would be better protected from unfair contract terms, landlords are questioning if the new law would make it more difficult for them to handle bad tenants. In addition, developers are worried that the new law may scare off investors who are looking for an opportunity to buy a condo unit to rent out.
Our April edition provided an overview of the provisions of this legislation. As a follow-up, one of the country’s largest international property services firms, JLL, has provided a review of the implications of this significant change in leasing requirements from a property agent perspective. First and foremost, it should be clear that the new law will affect only individual investors or business entities that lease at least five property units in one building or more to individuals for residential use. Property types to be covered by the new law are not limited to condominiums and apartments but also houses and other property types that are leased for residential use, except dormitories and hotels that are subject to separate laws.
Among many requirements/restrictions by the new law, there are three provisions that are widely discussed among lessors as well as property agents and condominium developers. 1. The lessor will be prohibited to ask for any more than just one month’s rent deposit and one month’s security deposit. Deposits are taken as security for the tenants’ liabilities in respect of rent and damage to the property as well as unpaid utility bills. At present, lessors typically ask for a rent deposit and a security deposit, equivalent to two months’ rent and one month’s rent, respectively. A deposit of one month’s rent should suffice to assure the landlord will receive the final month’s rent when the lessee vacates at the end of the lease contract. However, there are cases where lessees fail to pay rent for more than one month or, in fewer cases, fail to move out and pay rent after the leasing contract expires. 2. The lessee has the right to terminate the lease agreement prior to contract expiry, but must notify the lessor at least 30 days before the intended termination date. Th e n ew l aw s h o u l d p rov i d e better clarity to lessors, some of whom misunderstand that the lessee has no right to terminate the contract prior to lease expiry and thus confiscate the rent and security deposits in case of early lease termination. 3. The lessor is prohibited to stipulate electricity and water charge rates exceeding the rates applied by the main utility providers. This new requirement should be most welcomed by lessees, particularly in apartments where many operators have their own utility charge rates that vary from
operator to operator. In most condominium buildings, and some apartments, the rate of utility charge can be set by an agreement between the co-owners and the juristic person committee if the meters are not supplied directly by the utility provider. The new regulatory requirement should help create more transparency on utility charges to the lessee. There are a number of other restrictions or requirements that worry the lessors and on which JLL declines to provide an opinion and leaves them to law specialists to comment. Implications for Real Estate For lessees, the new law has been designed to provide greater protection and consequently the confidence that should help accelerate lease decision and the transaction process. The new law is not expected to scare off investors who are looking for opportunities to purchase residential property in Thailand for rental returns. On the other hand, investors should have a greater comfort, realising that definitive guides to lease arrangements will be put in place.
As lessees will be better protected, lessors are expected to adopt a more cautious approach in screening prospective tenants as well as agents that introduce them. There will be a need for juristic persons and property managers to understand the changes in the law as it is usually the property managers who are asked questions from co-owners and tenants alike. Having said that, it must be made clear that neither juristic persons nor property managers are responsible for the governance of leases that are a contractual agreement between the owner of the property and the relevant tenant thereof. Hiring or consulting with a qualified legal firm if there are any doubts about the new law or lease agreement is recommended. Any lessor or lessee however must still adhere to any articles of association or registered rules and regulations of a condominium. It is also advisable that both parties should be aware of these rules and regulations when they enter into an agreement.
Providing Safe and Sensational Lighting Solutions for your Great Outdoors
Garden lighting throughout Thailand often uses power hungry and potentially lethal mains voltage power supplies. This coupled with cheap fixtures that corrode over time and generally bad cabling practices can pose a threat to workers and loved-ones. Chris Anderson and his team specialise in low voltage 12 volt LED landscape lighting systems to eliminate the need for mains voltage in outdoor areas that are exposed to the elements for long periods of time. The use of this system in outdoor areas adds a new dimension to any property, not only from an aesthetic standpoint, but also in practical terms by maximising the use of outdoor spaces. With the wonderful climate we have in Hua Hin, who wants to be cooped up indoors! Due to the efficiency and low cost of running these systems extra security is provided as the home owner can afford to leave the garden lights running during the night even when away to create the impression that the property is occupied.
We joined Chris and his team at a seriously upmarket villa property near Black Mountain where landscaping and outdoor presentation was an obvious priority. No compromises in the quality of any of the fixtures and fittings for these proud owners. Chris worked together with the owners, builder, architect and landscaping teams to deliver a solution that would provide a safe, practical and beautiful outdoor lighting system to compliment this outstanding villa. Daylight reveals the quality and style of these beautiful garden lights imported from the US All lights were powered by 12V low voltage transformers activated by photocell timer. These systems sense the approaching dusk by monitoring the ambient light conditions. This way they remain unaffected by power cuts; unlike systems that use traditional analogue timers where the duration of a power cut will throw out the timing with timers having to be manually reset.
LED down-lights incorporate an oil fueled reservoir with a wick to produce a real flame, great for garden parties. The completed installations had not resulted in noticeable garden disturbance or damage; finishing a job without the need for a clean-up or repairs is another hallmark of the service.
Chris is in the spotlight; checking out the lighting effects created by his team
British born Chris Anderson with his wife Khun Wanida, an invaluable team Member. The SSS team have been lighting up some of Thailand’s most beautiful gardens since 2006, at a time when LED lighting was starting to gain a strong foothold on the lighting scene. Nowadays with longer lifespans, greater efficiency and desirable outputs, LED has become the norm for most lighting designers around the world. HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
In daylight the individual lights do not detract from the beauty of the gardens. All fixtures are compact and designed without flimsy plastic fittings waiting to be damaged by gardening equipment or kicked over by children at play. Area down-lights allow for safe movement around the property by illuminating paths and walkways. Spotlights were used to highlight certain trees and artworks. To add a touch of drama, Polynesian style brass tiki fire torches have been added to the mix. These high quality brass
The SSS team offers Chris’s personal consultation with onsite co n ce p t q u o t a t i o n s followed by a detailed specification assessment, including budget considerations, before installation. Chris and his team provide the quality of service and product to match the growing expectations of discerning Hua Hin home owners. He will call by without delay, arrange a site visit to a current project if you wish and answer any questions with a confidence based on product knowledge and personal experience. Contact: Phone 081 9686 051 (English), 08737 1881 (Thai); email chris@securitysafestop.com Website: www.securitysafestop.com
313 Your Guide to Car Insurance in Thailand Car insurance is a financial tool which can protect you and your family from financial burden should you get involved in a car crash or accident.
Car insurance is a necessary expense for car owners but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a huge amount for this protection. There are steps you can take to lower the costs of car insurance.
Choose a Cheaper Car
One factor to that affects your car insurance premium is the value of your car. A brand new car means insurers will have to pay more for repairs in an accident. A fancy sports car will also cost more to insure. To balance the risks and the payout, a car with less value can help you bring down your car insurance costs.
Pay Your Premiums Annually
The most basic feature of good car insurance is that it can cover some of the costs for when you accidently injure a pedestrian or destroy property while driving your car. It may even cover some or all of your medical expenses or the costs of having your car repaired in case of a car accident. Car insurance is vital to protect yourself from the many financial risks associated with driving your own vehicle. We’re constantly reminded of how dangerous driving can be, with frequent news about serious road accidents. Car insurance is a contract between you and an insurance company to cover the cost should your car get into an accident. You may file a claim with your car insurance company should you be affected by any of the risks that are covered by your policy. Your role in this contract is to pay the premium for your car insurance and to make sure you understand the terms of your coverage. Compulsory Motor Insurance All vehicles in Thailand are required to have third party liability insurance. This Compulsory Motor Insurance (CMI or Por Ror Bor) is mandated by the Protection for Motor Vehicle Victims Act B.E. 2535. This basic insurance provides up to 80,000 THB for medical expenses and 300,000 THB for death or permanent disability to third parties involved in a car accident. The Por Ror Bor’s coverage is limited, so you will need a comprehensive insurance to protect you better.
Paying for your yearly insurance coverage in one lump sum can be heavy on the pocket initially but this can save you money in the long run. Paying your premium on a monthly basis may mean having to pay a little higher than if you paid for it one lump sum.
Drive Carefully and Take Advantage of No Claims Bonus
Some insurance companies have a ‘No Claims Bonus’, which is a discount on your premium if you make no claims on your insurance plan. Just another reason for you to drive safely! Information provided by All Risks Insurance Hua Hin
Car insurance providers in Thailand offer products that can be categorized into three basic levels. 1. First Class Insurance. This type of insurance provides the most comprehensive covers and may cover the vehicle, the life of the driver and the passengers and the medical expenses incurred when the car is involved in an accident. 2. Second Class Insurance. This type of insurance provides collision coverage for the cost to repair the car if it is involved in an accident. 3. Third Class Insurance. These car insurance products cover the life of the driver, medical
expenses for the driver and the passengers and third party liability coverage.
Filing a Claim
The process for filing a claim on your car insurance can differ depending on your insurance provider. You should read the claim procedure stated in your policy. In general, you’d need to contact your insurer immediately in the event of a motor accident. You will also need to contact the traffic police or local official so they can produce the documents you’ll need to file a claim, especially if the accident isn’t your fault. If there is another driver involved you’ll need that person’s contact information. Always keep a copy of your insurance policy in your car and keep the number of your car insurance provider saved on your phone.
HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
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335 Paragliding for a Bird’s Eye View of Thailand
A little north of Cha Am and west of Phetchaburi, on a bright sunny day you might see paragliders soaring high in the sky, near a summit named Khao Den.
Sarapee Montong is your paragliding host at Khao Den
Thailand with a bird’s eye view These aren’t the gliders you sometimes see on the beach with a huge motor, strapped to the pilot’s back that resemble a huge floor fan, known as paramotors in Thailand, or a hang glider, where the person is suspended by a triangular frame. These paragliders have an elliptical shaped parachute with a reserve of course! Enthusiasts launch themselves from a cliff edge or mountainside. Watching the clouds for signs of thermals and the direction of wind, scanning the horizon for a flock of birds ascending rapidly, they ride the uplifts for many hours. Paragliding is one of the few sports that can offer the freedom of the skies to soar like birds that take you places unimaginable on the ground. One of the major reasons for the sport’s popularity is the ease in which you can learn and the compact nature of the equipment. One late Saturday morning, I met up with an international group of paragliders; Swedish Ake, a New Zealand couple, Pen and Matt, and two French guys Pascle and Bob at the landing site. This is open land, ideal for landings, before clambering into a 4 wheel drive pickup for a trip to the launch site of Khao Den. Sarapee Montong, once a paraglider herself, owns land at the landing site and at the Khao Den launching site drive us in her 4 wheel drive pickup to this significant paragliding site. In 2014 a paraglider flew over 80kms, landing somewhere very close to the Burmese Border! With winds from the E/SE, at 290 metres elevation this foot launching site is the highest in the region with hills to the north and east and flat lands stretching 30 kilometres east to the coast, Khao Den offers a great paragliding launching point. Typically a paraglider will wear a harness, a waistcoat with many places to attach hooks for the chute, steering and brake toggles. They will have a knife should they have the misfortune to land in trees or scrub, a radio to communicate with the ground, a variometer to check descent or ascent and a GPS for unfamiliar territory or in competition paragliding. Water and some snacks come in useful too. Prior to take off, the elongated chute is laid out on the ground. The chute is connected to the harness and there is double check of steering, brake and other lines. After waiting for the chute to rise with the wind, and walking steadily backward, lift off can be achieved.
Launching from 290 meters elevation over the Phetchaburi hinterland Sarapee can organise transport to the landing/launching sites from Hua Hin, Cha-Am or Had Chao Sam Ran and local accommodation if required. Her advice and practical help is indispensible. If the landing is site is missed very friendly locals offer transport back to the landing pad and Sarapee is on hand to assist. A phone call to her will lead to a discovery of the exact location. It can be quite an adventure! Regulations vary country to country, but it is strongly advisable to take a course with experience trainers, before starting. Courses are available locally 35kms south of Hua Hin at Sam Roi Yot at the 300 Peaks Paragliding School which offers instruction and starting packages. Sam Roi Yot means 300 peaks and the coastline is stunningly beautiful with a majestic backdrop of mountains, free of high rise buildings, which help! A tandem paraglide with an experienced paraglider is a great way to discover whether you will like the experience. A course with hired equipment and expert instruction may be the best way to start. The most favourable conditions for paragliding roughly coincide with the main foreign tourist season, November to March. For more information see: www.300peaks.com and www.thaiglider.com
Playing From the Correct Tee-Box
It was a sunny Saturday morning on the golf course and an eager golfer was beginning his pre-shot routine on the first hole, visualising the upcoming shot, when a voice came over the clubhouse public address: “WOULD THE GENTLEMAN ON THE WOMEN’S TEE PLEASE BACK UP TO THE MEN’S TEE.” The golfer remained deep in his routine, seemingly impervious to the interruption. Again the announcement rang out louder; “would the MAN on the WOMEN’S tee kindly go back to the men’s tee.” The golfer simply ignored the request and kept concentrating, when once more, came the clubhouse call; “would the man on the women’s tee back up to the men’s tee, PLEASE.” He finally stopped, turned, looked towards the clubhouse and shouted back; “would the person in the clubhouse please be quiet so that I can play my second shot”.
LUCKY-AWNINGS
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836 World Golf Handicap System Given the Green Light for 2020
The way golfers around the world will calculate handicaps is to be transformed by a new system developed by the USGA and The R&A, designed to provide golfers with a consistent measure of playing ability.
The 2018 US Masters provided a world-class leaderboard and plenty of final round thrills, but Patrick Reed outlasted them all to win his first major championship.
Reed receives the customary green jacket from 2017 champion Sergio Garcia who lost any chance of retaining his title after a 13 on the 15th hole with 5 balls in the water After shooting in the 60s each of the first three days of the tournament, Reed only needed a one-under 71 on Sunday to win, finishing at 15 under overall. He handled the flows of championship and not flinching when Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowler reached 14-under to put pressure on the 27-year old Texan. Reed did it all while playing with Rory McIlroy, who didn’t provide the one-on-one thrills many expected, but instead shot a 2-over 74 while paired with the eventual champion to finish in a tie for fifth.
The new World Handicap System, to be implemented in 2020, follows an extensive review of systems administered by six existing handicapping authorities. Features of the new system: Flexibility in formats of play, allowing both competitive and recreational rounds to count for handicap purposes and ensuring that a golfer’s handicap is more reflective of potential ability A minimal number of scores needed to obtain a new handicap; a recommendation that the number of scores needed to obtain a new handicap be 54 holes from any combination of 18-hole and 9-hole rounds. A consistent handicap that is portable from course to course and country to country. An average-based calculation of a handicap, taken from the best eight out of the last 20 scores and factoring in memory of demonstrated ability for better responsiveness and control. A calculation that considers the impact that abnormal course and weather conditions. Daily handicap revisions, taking account of the course and weather conditions calculation
2018 US Masters – Reed Holds off A Field of Champions
A limit of Net Double Bogey on the maximum hole scores (for handicapping purposes only). A maximum handicap limit of 54.0, regardless of gender. Mike Davis, CEO of the USGA (pictured), commented, “For some time, we’ve heard golfers say, ‘I’m not good enough to have a handicap,’ or ‘I don’t play enough to have a handicap.’ We want to make the right decisions now to encourage a more welcoming and social game.” www.randa.org/News/2017/04/WorldHandicap-System-to-be-developed-for-golf
Reed’s final round partner Rory McIlroy (left) couldn’t catch the 2018 champion “It was just a sigh of relief. To dream about winning the green jacket as a child growing up, you know, having all those putts on the practice greens with all your friends… to have that dream come true is, it’s just a surreal moment. It hasn’t fully set in yet,” said Reed.
Hua Hin Sixes – 23 Years of Cricket at the Dusit Thani
The original name of the Dusit Thani was the Dusit Resort and Polo Club, but that doesn’t mean the land in front of the resort was originally a polo ground. The grounds were created as a purpose made cricket ground, perhaps the first in Thailand.
David Lewins Golf Tuition Private golf lessons from a PGA Thailand professional On course anywhere in Hua H in or Cha-Am Single players 800 THB per hour Doubles 1,200 THB per hour or
10x 1 hour packages for 6,000 THB
095 760 1696 lewinsnam@hotmail.com teerati.dave Teerati Lewins HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
These days it is also used for a variety of other sports, for example the Dusit Thani Hua Hin Football Academy, offering a wide range of football courses for children from 4 – 15 years of age. However it should not be forgotten that in 1994, the plan to convert what was a swamp area into a cricket ground was first hatched and in 1996 the first Hua Hin Sixes tournament was being played. Thanasak Karnasuta – ‘Tom’ tells the story of being drafted as the first President of the Thailand Cricket League in 1993.
He quickly found out that a first priority for the League was to have it’s own grounds. No more playing second fiddle to other sports with cancelled fixtures being a common problem. His entrepreneurial efforts secured funding from sponsors such as the Singha Corporation and then the support of the Dusit International Group Owner Khun Chanin and the Resident Manager John Gill. These days the grounds are in great shape with a brand new extended Astro Turf pitch installed. The 2018 Sixes saw 24 teams competing for the Cup or in the Masters and Veterans Divisions over seven days between April 5th and April 10th.
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38 10 Getting into a Pickle at True Arena Hua Hin!
Pickleball has got nothing to do with gherkins, being preserved or anything similar. But it is one of the fastest growing sports on the planet and can be played by anyone, young or old. There is now a strong following in Hua Hin after being established here four years ago. So why does this sport have such an odd name? Pickleball was invented in 1965 by US Congressman Joel Pritchard at his home near Seattle. The most common theory is that it was named after his dog ‘Pickles’ as the first games were played using this dog’s play-ball. Pickleball’s unique name raises curiosity and hints at the fun and enjoyment that is experienced by all who play the game. This is a hybrid sport combining many of the elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong; played on a court similar to a badminton court with a waist-high net.
Tournament play keeps interest high for the better players with Alison partnering Bill Evans to win the January 2018 Hua Hin championships. A big ambition for the Hua Hin club is to host the first Thailand International Open event in 2019, bringing players from around the world. Anyone that has played other racquet sports such as tennis, badminton or table tennis will adapt quickly to this game. The social nature of pickleball is part of the allure that is causing so many people to play and become so enthusiastic about it. For further information please contact Elaine Shallcross : elaineshallcross@hotmail.com Alison Fulton : hectorhouse@msn.com
Some very enthusiastic pickleball players on court at the 100PLUS Hall, True Arena Hua Hin Alison Fulton introduced pickleball to Hua Hin and True Arena is now the home of the Hua Hin International Pickleball Club. Play is available on Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturday mornings. There are more than 100 regular players from around 16 different countries. Wednesday (3 – 5 PM) is set aside for novice players to be introduced to the sport with the current British Open ladies doubles title holders, Alison with Elaine Shawcross are on hand as coaches and mentors. Pickleball is easy for beginners to learn, and attracts players of any age or gender. The game can be played at many different levels. It can be introduced as a fun game, where the pace is gentle but it can also be a fast-paced, competitive sport. The focus of the Wednesday training session we attended was clearly about strategy. Like other ‘bat and ball’ games stroke play, agility and reflexes may be important, but wily older players of pickleball are often able to match it with younger opponents with a more crafty approach.
Young Thais Heading to ‘Football for Friendship’ in Moscow Ittipolchana Kaewsawad and Preechayan Piyachatiwongs, 12 year old football enthusiasts from Thailand, have been selected as country’s representatives at the global FOOTBALL FOR FRIENDSHIP (F4F) social program.
About the Rule The Pros Getting it Wrong
Many golfers will have incurred a penalty of two strokes for playing their ball from a wrong place, Rule 20-7. A common scenario is when a player is asked to move their ball-marker to the side, because it is close to the line of putt of another player, but forgets to replace it before putting out. 20-3a and 20-7c). The competitor incurs no penalty for having putted from the right place after holing out from the wrong place. After his round Lehman said; “I am ticked off at my caddie (yes, the caddie should be monitoring his player’s actions) and myself. Ultimately the burden is on me to make sure that things are right. For two of us to miss that is nearly, I think, inexcusable.”
The F4F program, supported by Gazprom and FIFA aims at developing youth football and a healthy lifestyle as well as promoting tolerance, open-mindedness and respect of different cultures and nationalities between children from across the globe. Thailand joins the program for the first time and will participate alongside 210 other countries and regions. Ittipolchana will join young footballers from around the world in Moscow in June 2018. The children will be a part of the 32 International Teams of Friendship and play against each other in the Gazprom FOOTBALL FOR FRIENDSHIP International Championship. The friendly tournament aims to bring together children from around the world and celebrate the unifying spirit of football. Preechayan will act as the young journalist and report on all the local and global activities of the F4F program as part of the International Children’s Press Centre. He will also spread awareness on the Nine Values (friendship, equality, fairness, health, peace, devotion, victory, traditions and honour) of the F4F program. Ittipolchana and Preechayan will also HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
participate in the Sixth Football for Friendship International Children’s Forum in Russia, which will allow youngsters to meet their peers from other countries, share their experiences, and discuss with famous footballers and journalists on how to promote key values of the F4F Program around the world The sixth season of the F4F programme will conclude with a visit by the participating children to the opening ceremony and the first match of the FIFA World Cup 2018. Speaking on the selection of the young ambassadors by the Football Association of Thailand, International Relation Officer Mr. Parkpoom Potivetgul said, “The selection of the young ambassadors from Thailand is an extension of our support to this unique global initiative. The program is a wonderful opportunity for the ambassadors to build ties of friendship among children from around the world and foster peace and harmony through the beautiful game of football. We wish our young ambassadors all the best for the program and look forward to their contribution in promoting the key values of the program, in Russia, as well as in Thailand”
Tom Lehman rues his error US golfer, Tom Lehman, forgot to replace his ball after marking it to the side on the second day of the 1997 Open Championship. The problem came after his ball was in Vijay Singh’s line of putt, so he marked it and moved the mark to the side. When it was his turn to putt he forgot to return the ball to its original position and played it from where he had marked it, incurring a penalty of two strokes for a breach of Rule 20-7. Afterwards he admitted that he thought that he might be disqualified because he didn’t correct his error by putting out from the right place. Decision 20-7c/1 clarifies that this is not the case; Question: In stroke play, a competitor in replacing his ball on the putting green inadvertently put the ball in a wrong place nearby and holed out. The error was then discovered and the competitor put his ball in the right place and holed out. What is the ruling? Answer: Provided that the competitor had not committed a serious breach, the score with the ball played from the wrong place counts and the competitor must add two penalty strokes to that score (Rule 16-1b or
A useful tip is to turn the putter upsidedown and hold it by the putter head. This is a reminder to replace the marker before your putt. Remember that when you mark your ball to the side, you must exactly reverse the procedure to show that you are replacing your ball at the exact spot that it was originally marked. The player should place a ball-marker where their ball is at rest, lift the ball and put it aside (e.g. in their pocket), measure the putter head width(s) and put down the ball-marker. In other words, take the ball out of the measuring process. However, it does not matter what method is used, providing the steps to move the ball or ball-marker to the side are then strictly reversed when the ball is replaced.
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12 40 Asset Sales Provide Capital Injection for MahaSamutr Developer
Pace Development Corporation Plc., the owners of the MahaSamutr Country Club and luxury villas in Hua Hin has secured 14 billion THB from the sale of assets at the country’s highest building, MahaNakhon, to duty-free retailer King Power International Group. The company is now seeking a partner for a joint venture at MahaSamutr and to change the concept to that of a wellness hotel. Pace chief executive Sorapoj Techakraisri said the proceeds from the sales, together with 3.89 billion THB available from a capital increase in February, will reduce company debt and allow for the continuation of four existing projects. Information was provided at a press conference in Bangkok last month. Pace recorded total debt of 30.16 billion THB, against total assets of 32.42 billion THB at the end of 2017. It reported total revenue of 9.27 billion THB and a net profit of 171.12 million THB for that year. The company has been mired in debt after it bought and expanded American restaurant chain Dean & DeLuca four years ago and the realisation of the MahaNakhon tower and other prime real estate projects including MahaSamutr.
Deal makers King Power’s CEO Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha and Pace Development’s CEO Sorapoj Techakraisri
MahaSamutr in Hua Hin mooted to become a wellness venue Pace is the developer of the MahaSamutr luxury villa project in Hua Hin, worth 3.9 billion THB with 3 billion THB remaining for sale. The company plans to seek a partner in a joint venture at the Hua Hin site and change the concept to that of a wellness hotel. Under the MahaNakhon agreement, Pace Development is selling land, the 154 room Bangkok Edition hotel, the tower’s observation deck, the MahaNakhon Cube retail building, interiors, operating licenses and related contracts to King Power, Thailand’s largest travel retailer.
Ac c o rd i n g t o K i n g P owe r C E O A i yawa t t Srivaddhanaprabha, the proposal is for the 77 storey tower to be renamed King Power MahaNakhon, although this remains a topic for discussion with the other owners. The company is also considering buying 53 residential units of Ritz-Carton MahaNakhon, which is part of the MahaNakhon project, he said. “We believe this is a winwin for both sides, as we gain a new business and Pace gets capital to operate its business.” MahaNakhon is located on Narathiwas Road in Bangkok’s Sathorn district and formally completed in August 2016. It exceeded the Baiyoke II Tower to become the tallest building in Thailand at a height of 341 metres. However last month access to some parts of the main building was not possible.
In an Ageing Thailand, Developers Race to Supply Locals and Elderly Expats At 79, Thai businessman Boon Vasin’s latest $500 million venture is a bet on a market he knows well – looking after Thailand’s rapidly growing population of old people. Not only is Thailand ageing faster than its neighbors, but it is also becoming an increasingly popular retirement option for foreigners attracted by its agreeable climate, low living and health costs and culture of service. “We will look after them from their waking hours until they go to sleep,” said Boon, chairman of the Thonburi Healthcare Group Pcl. “This group has big spending capacity.”
His Jin Wellbeing County is a ‘medical city’ for Thai and foreign retirees being built across more than two hectares (5 acres) on the outskirts of Bangkok. The first of nearly 500 housing units being sold in an initial phase are being marketed for nearly $130,000, plus additional fees of 7,000-8,000 baht ($224 – $385) a month for meals and services ranging from fitness sessions to excursions. Boon predicts care services will yield recurring profits of up to 240 million baht each year from the project, plus unit sales and medical services. Together with China, Thailand is aging faster than its regional neighbors. By 2040 it is expected to have the highest share of elderly people of any developing country in East Asia, according to the World Bank. Thailand has 7.5 million people aged 65 and over, a figure projected to swell to 17 million by 2040 – more than a quarter of the expected population. HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
That’s partly due to improving medical care extending life expectancies, but also a fall in birth rates from an average of more than six children per woman in 1960 to 1.5 in 2015. In the past, generations of the same Thai family lived under the same roof and elderly were cared for by their offspring. But the changing population balance, as well as a shift from the countryside to towns, means that’s increasingly impractical. Real estate developers are already tapping the market. A residential project worth $160 million by developer Magnolia Quality Development Corp., which is scheduled to open in 2022, will include a wellness center offering elderly care services with specialists in areas such as dementia, said chief executive Visit Malaisirirat. All the homes in SC Asset Corp.’s $350-million luxury brand are equipped with designs aimed at the elderly, the group’s marketing head, Nattagit Sirirat, told Reuters. This includes shock absorbent floors and wheelchair access. “We worked with Siam Cement, which designed a shock-absorbing compound to use in flooring,” he said. The company was “closely studying retirement homes and communities” and was considering a partnership with a local private hospital operator to build a retirement community, he added, while declining to divulge predicted returns. For his care home, Boon is focusing on people with an income of over 100,000 baht a month – and not just Thais. The aim is to sell at least 20% of the project to foreigners, who are targeted along with locals in marketing materials. “We have Chinese and Japanese buyers who are interested,” he said. Boon has partnered with a Chinese agent to sell 90 units worth 671 million baht to Chinese customers. Many parts of Thailand away from the well-known expatriate enclaves fall decidedly in the developing countries category. But it is becoming an increasing draw for retirees. The number of foreigners over 50 who have applied for retirement visas to stay in Thailand almost doubled to nearly 73,000 in 2017 from fewer than 40,000 in 2013, according to immigration bureau data. At the top of the list are Britons – and last year the government launched a campaign to specifically attract British pensioners once Britain leaves
the European Union and closer destinations such as Spain become less attractive. Bryan Walker, 78, is one of those retirees attracted by Thailand’s food and climate. “It’s just so good,” said Walker, a former humanitarian aid worker who is considering a number of retirement facilities in the north of Thailand. “I’ve lived and worked in so many countries. Here the cost of living is wonderful, the climate is superb, although it’s a bit hot at times. But the range of food is like nothing I’ve ever experienced.” Peter Brown, owner of the Care Resort Chiang Mai, a care facility in the northern Thai city, set up his business after seeing his mother in a care home in Britain. “I found problems in how they do care. Basically, not enough nursing staff,” he said. “I decided on a better way to do this.” The resort began operation in 2012 and around half the guests are now from the United States, he said. An allinclusive stay, not including medicine, costs around $1,500 a month. “A lot of Americans are not getting healthcare free,” he said, emphasizing the importance of Thailand’s service culture as a draw. “You can see it everyday in the way the staff interact with the elderly.” – Reuters
41 May 2018
Hua Hin International Jazz Festival 2018: “Open to the New Shades” – It’s FREE! This year’s, International Jazz Festival will be held on Friday 18th and Saturday 19th May at the Hua Hin beach, under the theme “Open To The New Shades.”
An assembly of officials, promoters and performers at a recent press conference The theme is part of a campaign by the Tourist Authority of Thailand to promote tourism in Thailand by encouraging Thai and foreign visitors to explore Thailand in new ways. The festival is packed with many famous world class Jazz artists. Some of the headliners include: Shakatak; jazz funk band from the United Kingdom Dimension, jazz fusion band from Japan with their first performance in Thailand John Di Martino; acoustic artist from The United States of America Nina Van Horn; blues artist from France Ulf & Eric Wakenius; acoustic guitarist duo from Sweden Veronica Nunes & Ricardo Vogt; Latin Bossa Nova artists from Brazil Simone Kopmajer; the famous jazz diva from Austria. The shows start from 5 PM on both days and continue until midnight. There are 2 stages that the visitors can enjoy. One is the open stage for new generation Jazz artists such as Funktion, Sax Pack Girl and Sincharoen Brothers. Another is the BEACH STAGE which is the main stage of world class international artists.
“The Sound of Siam”; led by Koh Mr. Saxman; the acclaimed Thai jazz artist Visitors can relax to the world class Jazz music along with the sea breeze. This is a free Jazz festival that should not be missed.
Getting there: From the traffic lights in central Hua Hin on Phetchakasim Road, head towards the beach down Soi 61 (Damnoen kasim Road). The Beach stage is a short distance along the beach to the right (south) behind the Centara Resort. Parking nearby is likely to be an issue so an alternative is to park at the Market Village Shopping Mall with a regular shuttle service in clearly marked transport available. For more information visit : www.huahininterjazz.com or Facebook Hua Hin International Jazz Festival.
FOOD & Entertainment, May 2018
2 42 Brunching at the Centara First Easter and Next the Jazzy Sunday Brunch
Sunday Brunch is becoming one of the most popular outings for both visitors and locals who take advantage of the weather, the ocean scenery and the amazing cuisine available at Hua Hin restaurants that have embraced this concept.
The Centara Grand Resort & Villas offers one of the most amazing Sunday brunches which we last experienced on Easter Sunday. When you have a dining stage overlooking Hua Hin‘s iconic main beach (soon to be the International Jazz Festival Beach Stage), flaunt it! I always think it’s strange when dining, particularly day time dining, means retreating to a restaurant well away from the ocean when an absolute ocean frontage is available, what a waste! The Coast Beach Club and Bistro at the Centara certainly flaunts their ocean frontage with guests feeling the sands between their toes, sitting on a decked terrace or retreating to air-conditioned comfort away from summer heat or inclement weather. Either way the ocean sights and
sounds are not far away as well as a trio of talented musicians adding their laid back soothing sounds from the adjoining pavilion. Even if it’s back to work or some other mundane activities on Monday, your Sunday will become a summer holiday for the day. There’s a bevy of welcoming staff on hand to make sure that a cooling drink of choice gets you started before visiting the food stations from time to time to savour the many choices of fine cuisine on hand. You are bound to visit more than once, but there’s no hurry. Sunday Brunch is intended to be a social experience with conversations with friends or family enjoyed over several hours sharing priority with the dining. This is a very civilised though casual outing with guests taken far away from the stresses and cares of the world. When Monday does arrive you’ll be refreshed, refueled and ready for the week to come. The next Sunday Brunch at the Centara follows the International Jazz Festival with one of the Festival headliners, John di Martino, providing the entertainment for this special occasion. Bookings are highly recommended for a Jazzy Sunday Brunch on May 20th. Phone: 03251 2021
FOOD & Entertainment, May 2018
433 Rain or Shine; ‘The Beat Goes On’ at the BaBa Beach Club Untimely stormy weather was no deterrent to party-goers at the March ‘Beat of Life’ day on the beach, alongside the fashion catwalk and on the lawns for the after dark entertainment at the BaBa Beach Club.
On the beach meant getting on board surf cats, paddle boards or witnessing the thrills and spills provided by a display of hydroflying. That’s a recently introduced sport with the ‘flyer’ being thrust high into the air mounted on jet nozzles linked to a nearby jetski.
Mr. Ditawat Issara and Mr Boonkiet Chokwatana
Sunset saw umbrellas competing with fashion from ELLE & ETC. poolside as an array of models strutted their stuff with some succumbing to the attractions of the clear blue waters of the pool to get much wetter than the continuing showers had caused. Stage three involved a welcome from the resident saxophonist on the lawns ocean side of the Baan Chok colonial styled venue as the rain abated before enjoying the food and entertainment with Burin Boonvisut, who long reigned as Thailand’s “king of disco”, providing the evening’s finale.
Baba Beach Club events promise to become iconic gatherings at this exclusive venue within the Thew Talay Estate just a few kilometres south of Cha-Am. Beautiful surroundings, beautiful entertainment and beautiful people on the beach at this music lover’s destination.
FOOD & Entertainment, May 2018
44 4 WEEKLY MONDAYS Luna Lanai by the Sea, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa
Discover the delights of Cha Am Barracuda freshly caught from local waters. As you scope the ocean from a gentle elevation, savor the sleek, spineless, fleshy fish in four delicious ways. Prices start at 290 Baht net. SPG members enjoy up to 20% off food and beverages everyday throughout May-June. 10 AM - 10.30 PM. Culinary Treasures of Japan, Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin
TUESDAYS
WEDNESDAYS Coral Lounge, Amari Hua Hin
Reef Deli and Wine Lounge, Amari Hua Hin
Indulge in some sweets for a delightful afternoon tea menu served small and large. The menu includes Brie and bacon, spinach panini, Chicken wrapped in pandan leaves, Ratatouille, mozzarella cheese quiche, lemon honey, Chocolate brownies and raspberry cheese cake and Fruits scones with cream and berry sauce. The price is at THB 550 net for small and THB 950 net for Large.
Savour the sweet, soft and succulent tast of the Siam River Prawn every day at Reef Deli. Executive chef Pichit Plaibua has recently crafted six exceptional gastronomic dishes that blend the natural rich flavours of the Siam River Prawn with innovative style of preparation, such as Phad Thai Goong Mea Nam, Grilled River Prawn served with Thai Spicy Seafood Sauce; Goong Mae Nam Tod Kra Tiem and many more. Discover the mouth-watering and exceptional taste of the Siam River Prawn every day from 11:00 to 22:00, Price per menu item starts from 390++.
Luna La Pran Restaurant, Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas
Every Monday from Salas, Sheraton Hua Hin 6p.m. - 10p.m. at Hagi Resort & Spa Japanese Restaurant, Japanese buffet enjoy a wide variety of Japanese specialties such as Sushi, Sashimi, Tempura, live Teppanyaki and much more... Price: Baht 1,100++ per person.
It’s prime time to bring ashore the famous Pranburi squid and Luna La Pran’s specialty chefs are pumped. Savor salty-sweet, tender succulence: stir-fried salted egg; stuffed with minced pork; chargrilled salad/roasted rice, and Luscious Lychee Surrender to the poached/plum sugar. Season, Centara Grand irresistible combination Indulge in eminently Beach Resort & Villas of authentic Italian delicious Pranburi squid Hua Hin cuisine with some at the only rooftop of the tenderest and restaurant in town. tastiest lamb on the Prices start at 290 Baht planet. Salas Restaurant net SPG members enjoy presents a remarkable up to 20% off food menu starring prime and beverages. 11:00hrs Daily from 10am to 6pm Australian lamb with -23:00 hrs everyday at The Museum Coffee & baby spinach & salad; Tea Conner. The Museum lamb ragout/homemade throughout May and June 2018. welcomes a refreshing pappardelle; grilled lamb season with latest lychee rack/Parmesan crust; Thai Temple Fair, dessert creations. Made braised lamb shank. Centara Grand Beach using only the juiciest Resort & Villas Hua Hin Prices start at 320 Baht and sweetes lychees. net. SPG members enjoy The sweet-and-sour up to 20% food and selection gives just a beverages. 11:00hrs perfect hint of tropical 21:00hrs. flavor promising a OH-FISH-CIALLY The wonderful freshness Best Fish in Town!, words can’t describe. Centara Grand Beach Starting from Baht Resort & Villas Hua Hin 150++. Taste of the Northeast, Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin
Daily from 12 to 22.30 hours. Challenge your taste buds with Suan Bua’s special à la carte menu highlighting seductive flavours and unique aromas of Thais’ best-loved Northeastern cuisine in many flavourful dishes such as Gaeng Om Gai, PlaNueng Nam Prik and many more. Starting from Baht 230++.
Every Tuesday from 7:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. at COAST Beach Club & Bistro. Choose your fresh fish fillet of tuna, salmon, seabass or snapper along with your favorite sauce and side order then we will pan sear it and deliver to your table. Your fillet includes a selection from the chef’s salad buffet. Price: Baht 450++ (200g portion).
Wednesday – 9th, 23rd from 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. at Suan Bua Thai Restaurant. Submerge yourself into a genuine Thai cultural event and experience culinary delights from all over the Kingdom whilst listening to indigenous music from throughout Thailand. Price: Baht 850++ per person.
THURSDAYS Aqua, Amari Hua Hin
FRIDAYS Sundara Sports Lounge, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa
SATURDAYS InAzia, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa
Enjoy breathtaking Aqua pool bar presents view of the sunset while a poolside favourite Sipping your favorite dishes with a unique drink at half price from Thai flavour and a 5-7 p.m. Buy 1 get 1 free Mexican touch together. at Gravity Sky Bar and Pool side promotions experience the best include Moo Krob Nam Rooftop bar in Hua Hin. Chim Jeaw - Crispy Gravity Sky Bar is a new pork belly served with 360° rooftop venue chilli and lime sauce, located on the 24th floor Sheraton Hua Hin Peek Gai Tod Nam Pla Resort & Spa’s 10° of Novotel Hua Hin Cha - fried chicken wings Am Beach Resort & Spa. Wine Cellar is a famous with fish sauce served housing for some of Sundara Sports Lounge, the world’s finest wines. with Thai style spicy Sheraton Hua Hin sauce, Kung Thod with Join us as we sample Resort & Spa traditional Tom Yum our sommelier’s finest Sauce, and a Mexican selections, from wineries twist on Roasted such as Gerard Bertrand, Marinated Tentacle Robert Mondavi and Squid with Chipotle and Prieler, paired with a 5 Pickled Vegetables. Price course masterpiece by per menu starts from Chef Jakub Mares on 220++. International Wine Day. Tuck into the best of 18:30hrs onwards, 2,200 Steak Out, Centara British cheese dishes. Baht net per person. Grand Beach Resort & Four appetising Villas Hua Hin arrangements Luna La Pran await cheese lovers. Restaurant, Sheraton Hightlighs: potted Hua Hin Pranburi Villas stilton/port wine & rye bread toast; Welsh rarebit – melted cheddar, Worcestershire, mustard, Guinness on multigrain Every Thursday from bread; Irish cheese 7:00 p.m. - 10:30 pm. fondue; and English at COAST Beach Every Saturday, enjoy cheese platter, dried fig Club & Bistro. Select jam/quince paste. Prices a fantastic BBQ feast your preferred steak at Luna La Pran by the start at 320 Baht net. from Australia or New sea. Featuring a large Zealand. Cooked to your SPG members enjoy up array of local seafood order and accompanied to 20% off food and beverages. 11hrs - 24hrs, and premium imported by the chef’s salad meats grilled before Everyday throughout buffet of fresh cut your eyes. Healthy May and June 2018. vegetables and greens salads, sushi, Asian - truly a meat lovers Reef & Beef, Centara dishes and homemade delight! Price: Baht Grand Beach Resort & desserts are also 990++ (200g portion). Villas Hua Hin available. Savor the Taste of Seasonal refreshing sea breeze Flavours, Centara Grand and panoramic view Beach Resort & Villas of the Gulf as you dine Hua Hin from 6:30-10:00 PM. 18:00hrs-22:00hrs Prices Friday – 4th , 18th at THB. 1,234 net for an from 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 adult. p.m. at COAST Beach Afternoon Tea Club & Bistro. Discover Selections, Centara the variety of coast Grand Beach Resort & side dishes and a Wednesday to Sunday, Villas Hua Hin wide assortment of dinner only, from 6:00 tempting appetisers, p.m.to 10:00 p.m. at fresh fish, seafood, prime Railway Restaurant. quality meats and live Savour the subtle taste entertainment. Baht of the springtime from 1,200++ per person. Railway’s latest menu PURE MUSICAL featuring wide-ranging SOPHISTICATION, “White Asparagus” Centara Grand Beach classics. The seasonal dishes are served with a Resort & Villas Hua Hin variety of classic savory Friday 25th May 2018 garnishes, diners are From 6:30 pm. to 10:30 Monday - Saturday from sure to enjoy. Price: pm. at Colonial Hall. 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Starting from Baht Centara Grand Beach at The Museum Coffee 220++. Resort & Villas promises & Tea Corner. We offer a night of pure musical Corner 112 three different types sophistication as the of High Tea set for you award-winning “Lee to indulge in. Choose Trio” sets to bring their between Hua Hin set, passionate performance Heritage set or Colonial of classic repertoire, set, all served with a presenting the beautiful premium selection of Corner 112 has bought interpretation of classical coffee and the finest to Hua Hin an updated music. Baht 700 net per TWG tea. Price: Starting version of the Korean person(with canapés from Baht 450++ per BBQ. Corner of Soi Hua set. Hin 112 and Soi Hua Na 1. and evening drinks).
PHONE NUMBERS Amari Hua Hin: 032 616 600 BaBa Beach Club Hua Hin: 032 899 130 Cape Nidhra Hotel Hua Hin: 032 516 600 Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas Hua Hin 032 512 021
HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
Corner 112 Grill Restaurant: 083 006 1300 Dusit Thani Hua Hin: 032 520 009 Intercontinental Hua Hin Resort: 032 616 999 Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa: 032 904 666
SUNDAYS Exclusive Lounge, Amari Hua Hin
Indulge in the cosy setting with friends and family whilst savouring an array of delicious delights at Coral Lounge. Nibble on a variety of canapes, cheeses and cold cuts alongside a wide selection of wine, beer, soft drinks, cocktails, and more. Enjoy free flow every day from 18:00 to 19:30 at Coral Lounge, Lobby bar of Amari Hua Hin. Special price per adult 699++ THB. Sunday Roast @ COAST, Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin
Every Sunday exclusive for Dinner at COAST Beach Club & Bistro. Choose your own favourite portion of Roast Tender Pork, Juicy Beef or Tasteful Lamb, served at your table with freshly cooked root vegetables and assorted home made sauces. Price: Starts from Baht 690++ per couple. Japanese Surf & Turf, Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin
Daily from 5pm to 10:30 pm (except Monday) at Hagi Japanese Restaurant. Hagi’s perfect pairing of gourmet steak and seafood such as Beef strip-loin with Atlantic scallops and Australian tenderloin with Tiger shrimps - all guaranteed to have your taste buds celebrating in the Japanese style. Price: Starting from Baht 620++. Biggest Australian Cuts, Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin Daily from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at COAST Beach Club & Bistro. Try one of the biggest steaks from the latest “Biggest Australian Cuts” that features super-sized portions of your outback favourites served alongside mouthwatering classic side dishes. Price: Starting from Baht 1,350++ for two persons. Advertise with
Novotel Hua Hin Beach Resort & Spa: 032 708300 Putahracsa Hua Hin Resort: 032 531 470 Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa: 032 708 000 Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas: 032 909 900
Hua Hin Today Tel: 086 369 3604 visa@huahintoday.com www.huahintoday.com
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Camp Palapon Martial Arts & Holistic Fitness Camp ศิลปะการต่อสูแ ้ ละการออกกำาลังกายแบบองค์รวมค่าย 武术馆&健身训练营
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Monsoon Valley Vineyard Award-winning wines crafted using old world values with new world enthusiasm. A whole new world of wine discovery.
Address: Between the famous Thai resorts of Hua Hin and the fabulous Takiab Beach Tel: 086 803 9085 Email: info@palapon.net Web: www.palapon.net 71
Health Lab Hua Hin Medical Laboratory, Blood Testing บริการเจาะเลือดและสารคัดหลัง่ 放血、刺穿及试样处理
Address: 1 Moo 9 Baankhok Chang Patana, Nong Plup, Hua Hin Tel: 081 701 0444 Email: info@monsoonvalley.com Web: www.monsoonvalley.com 62
Address: Soi Hua Hin 45 and Soi Hua Hin 45/1 Tel: 032 515 920, 094 494 5649 Email: info.healthlab@gmail.com Web: www.healthlabclinic.com
Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin
Hua Hin Home Art
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A total of 45 hospitals throughout Thailand & Cambodia รวม 45 โรงพยาบาลทัว ่ ประเทศไทยและประเทศกัมพูชา 45家医院遍布泰国和柬埔寨
Hua Hin Home Art has the largest collection in Hua Hin of stone and wood art to make your home, business, resort and garden.
Address: 888 Petchkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 616 800 or 1719 (local calls only) Email: huahin@bangkokhospital.com Web: www.bangkokhospital.com/huahin/en/
Address: 180 Moo 7, T. Taptai A. Hua Hin J.Prachuap Khiri Khan Tel: 093 175 3566 Email: huahinhomeart@hotmail.com Web: www.huahin-homeart.com 73
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True Arena
Sivana Gardens Pool Villas
True Arena Hua Hin is Asia’s premier tennis, sports and recreational center, located in the heart of Thailand’s seaside resort town of Hua Hin.
Located in Khao Tao, Sivana Gardens Pool Villa offers an outdoor pool and year-round outdoor pool. Free WiFi is provided throughout the property and free private parking is available on site.
Address: 52/52 Petchkasem Road, Nong Kae, Hua Hin Tel: 032 909 633 Email: info@truearenahuahin.com Web: www.truearenahuahin.com
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Address: Soi 126 Hua Hin, Phetkasem Rd Tel: 082 840 8080 Email: info@sivanagardens.com 74 Web: www.sivanagardens.com
Water Jungle Vana Nava Hua Hin
Lotus Sports Club (Muay Thai)
Tropical environment, amazing slides, rides ... สภาพแวดล้อมเขตร้อนสไลด์ทน ่ี า่ ตืน ่ ตาตืน ่ ใจ, ขี่ สถานทีท ่ อ ่ งเทีย ่ ว 热带环境，绝色美景，游乐设施和景点...
Shadow boxing, bag work, Muay Thai techiniques, sparing, stretching, swimming, running, rope jump, pad work, bags, clinch, kness or low kick ...
Address: 129/99 Soi Moo Baan Nong Kae, Hua Hin Tel: 032 909 606 Email: info@vananava.com Web: www.vananavahuahin.com
Address: 112 Soi 102 Tambon Thap Tai, Hua Hin, Chang Wat Tel: 032 510 106 Email: info@lotushuahin.com Web: www.lotushuahin.com
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Black Mountain Golf Club It is the only course in Thailand ever named in Golf Digest’s Top 100 Courses Outside the US. Black Mountain高尔夫球场建立于2007年，在4年的营业中获 得“亚洲最好新球场”的美誉 Address: 565, Moo7, Nong Hieng Rd, Hin Lek Fai Tel: 032 618 666 Email: info@bmghuahin.com Web: www.blackmountainhuahin.com
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Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin The Banyan is set in a valley basin with some spectacular views and Golf East, the Thai design company 自 2008 年俱乐部开业以来，Banyan 高尔夫已经连续三年被《 亚洲高尔夫月刊》评选为最佳三大球场之一 Address: 68/34 Mooban Hua Na, Nong Gae, Hua Hin Tel: 032 616 200 Email: reservations@banyanthailand.com Web: www.banyanthailand.com
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Fine Wood Shutter Fine Wood Company is the leading shutters specialist in Thailand-Crafting professional quality natural wood shutters is our expertise. Address: 146/60 Phechkaseam Road, Tambol Nongkhae, HuaHin Tel: 02 662 4476, 086 424 9936 Email: info@finewoodshutter.com Web: www.finewoodshutter.com Line ID: Finewoodcompany 76
Mason Appetite MasonAppetite is an authorized representative for premium home products. We dedicate to source & select only reliable quality with great design & function. Address: Baan Mai, Pak Kret, Nonthaburi, 11120 Tel: 029 841 155, 083-0969099 Email: mason.appetite@gmail.com Web: www.masonappetite.com
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Hua Hin Today Translation Services
HH Home Living
Certified translation services are available in any language as needed for official purposes. Quick turnaround and competitive rates.
Bathroom, Decking Fencing, Furniture, Hotel & Restaurant Supplies, Jacuzzi, Kitchen, Lighting, Stone, Swimming Pool, Window, Ceramic, Linen & Towels
Address: 62/69 Soi Moobaan Hua-Na, Nongkae, Hua Hin Tel: 086 3693 604 Email: visa@huahintoday.com Web: www.huahintoday.com
Address: 62/69 Soi Moobaan Hua-Na, Nongkae, Hua Hin Tel: 061 815 2680 Email: info@hh-homeliving.com Web: www.hh-homeliving.com
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Kiteboarding Asia Hua Hin
Asian Secure Hua Hin-Vaults
Book kitesurfing & SUP lessons, buy kites, kiteboards.. หนังสือ ไคท์บอร์ด และบทเรียน ซับ, ไคท์บอร์ด 预定冲浪活动，SUP课程，风筝以及冲浪板...
Top security Hi-tech Steel Vault - Protected by 24/7 Monitoring of Alarm & CCTV. Deposit your valuables, documents, jewels in safety. Deposit boxes with dual locks. Address: 59/118 Soi 116 Nongkae, Hua Hin Tel: 086-3547352, 086-5046405 Email: asiansecure01@gmail.com
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Address: 143/8 Soi 75/1, Hua Hin Tel: 081 591 4593 Email: huahin@kiteboardingasia.com Web: www.kiteboardingasia.com
10% VIP
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Nadpob Dental Clinic
Boonthavorn Hua Hin Your centre for tiles, bathroom, kitchen, furniture and living. 200km free delivery. บุญถาวรหัวหิน จุดเริม ่ ต้นของการ สร้างสรรค์อนาคตสะอาดใส และหลากหลายไอเดียแต่งบ้านทีค ่ ณ ุ สรรค์สร้างได้ดง่ั ใจ เปิดให้คณ ุ สัมผัสแล้ววันนี้ Open: 8:00 am. - 20:00 pm. Address: 4/48 Moo Ban Bofai, Hua Hin Tel: 032 522 555 Fax: 032 520 141 Web: www.boonthavorn.com
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Except, Implant, Orthodontics, Treatment ... ตกแต่งทันตกรรมรากเทียม และอืน ่ ๆ 牙科美容，植入手术等 Address: Huahin Market Village, floor 1 st Tel: 089 910 1033 Email: nadpobdental@hotmail.com Web: facebook.com/pages/Nadpob-Dental-Clinic
10% VIP
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HUA HIN TODAY, November HUA HIN TODAY, May 2015 2018
6 646 Alphabetical list
30% VIP
30% VIP Alphabetical list Discount up to 30% for Hua Hin Today VIP Card holders Discount up to 30% for Hua Hin Today VIP Card holders
Da Mario Italian Restaurant
Azure at InterContinental Hua Hin
Cuisine: Italian ประเภทอาหาร: อาหารอิตาเลีย ่ น 菜肴: 意大利菜
Cuisine: Seafood, Mediterranean, Thai, Grill ประเภทอาหาร: อาหารทะเล, ทะเลเมดิเตอร์เรเนียน, อาหารไทย 菜肴: 海鲜, 地中海菜, 泰国菜
10% VIP
Address: Naresdamri Road 20/24 Hua Hin Tel: 085 473 1441 and 032 530 170 Web: www.da-mario-huahin.com
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20% VIP
Address: 33 Petchkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 616 999 Email: ichh.rsvn@ihg.com Web: huahin.intercontinental.com/azure
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Luna Lanai Seafront Restaurant
InAzia Restaurant, Sheraton Hua Hin
Our seaside bar & restaurant in Hua Hin is the perfect place to chill out, a huge selection of alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks as well as delectable Thai and Western dishes.
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese, Indian and Japanese อาหารเอเชีย, อาหารจีน, อาหารอินเดีย, อาหารญีป ่ น ุ่ 菜肴: 亚洲菜, 中国菜 , 印度菜, 日本菜
Address: 1573 Phet Kasem Rd, Tambon Cha-am, Phetchaburi Tel: 032 708 000 Email: reservations.huahin@sheraton.com Web: www.sheratonhuahin.com/dining 2
Address: 1573 Petchkasem Road, Sheraton Hua Hin Tel: 032 708 000 Email: reservations.huahin@sheraton.com Web: www.sheratonhuahin.com
20% VIP
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Luna La Pran Restaurant, Sheraton Hua Hin
COAST Beach Club & Bistro Cuisine: International Cuisine & Authentic fresh-made Pizza, Grilled meats and Seafood ประเภทอาหาร: อาหารนานาชาติ, พิชซ่า, อาหารทะเล 菜肴: 国际菜, 披萨, 各类烧烤, 海鲜 Address: 1 Damnerkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 512 021 Email: chbr@chr.co.th Web: facebook.com/COASTHuaHin/
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Cuisine: Thai, Western, Fusion and Fresh Seafood ประเภทอาหาร: อาหารยุโรบ, อาหารไทย 20% 菜肴: 海鲜, 欧洲菜, 泰国菜
VIP
Address: 9/22 Moo 5, Pak Nam Pran, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77220 Tel: 032 909 900 Email: fb.huahin@sheraton.com Web: www.sheratonhuahinpranburi.com
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Ban Benjarong Royal Thai Cuisine
The Restaurant Dusit Thani Hua Hin Our all-day dining restaurant serves an array of international and local favourites in elegant surroundings with stunning views.
Cuisine: Thai ประเภทอาหาร: อาหารไทย 菜肴: 泰国菜
Address: 1349 Petchkasem Road Cha-am, Petchburi Tel: 032 520 009 Email: dthhrsvn@dusit.com Web: www.dusit.com/dusitthani/huahin/dining/the-restaurant/
Address: 1349 Petchkasem Road, Cha-am Tel: 032 520 009 Web: www.dusit.com/dusitthani/huahin/dining/ban-benjarong/
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14 Corner 112 Grill & Thai Restaurant
Mamma Mia Cucina Italiana & Pizza Cuisine: Italian, Pizza ประเภทอาหาร: อาหารอิตาเลีย ่ น, พิชซ่า 菜肴: 意大利菜, 披萨
15% VIP
There are a variety of booths to select Issan food, noodles, grilled pork, grilled chicken, grilled ribs as well as the Korean BBQ Buffet.
10%
Address: 8/4 Naresdamri Road, Hua Hin VIP Tel: 032 512 250 and 081 852 2136 Email: claudio.mammamia@gmail.com Web: facebook.com/pages/Mamma-Mia-Cucina-Italiana-Pizza
Address: Soi 112 Hua Na Tel: 083 006 1300 Web: www.facebook.com/corner112.huahin
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Siam Bakery Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa The Siam bakery is located inside the Marriott in Hua Hin with access from the main road as well. Coffee is served to perfection and it offers a great menu for all day dining.
15 Railway Restaurant Centara Hua Hin Taking its design inspiration from Hua Hin railway station originally erected in the early 1920s, The Railway restaurant offers a worldly selection of cuisines for breakfast and dinner.
Address: 107/1 Phetkasem Rd, Hua Hin, Hua Hin District, 77110 Tel: 032 904 666 Web: https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/hhqmr-hua-hinmarriott-resort-and-spa/ 6
Address: 1 Damnernkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 512 021 Email: chbr@chr.co.th Web: www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centaragrand/chbr/ restaurant/
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Greek Taverna Hua Hin
Big Fish Marriott Hua Hin
Cuisine: Greek, Thai, Vegetarian ประเภทอาหาร: อาหารกรีซ, อาหารไทย, อาหารมังสวิรต ั ิ 菜肴: 希腊菜, 泰国菜, 斋菜
Taste the ocean with the fresh catch of the day at Big Fish, our
Address: 58 Naresdamri Road, Hua Hin Tel: 098 463 3622 Email: bell@regalthailand.com Web: www.facebook.com/greektavernahuahin
Address: 107/1 Phetkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 904 666 Email: bookhuahin@marriott.com Web: www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/hhqmr-hua-hin-marriottresort-and-spa/ 17
signature grill and seafood restaurant, located directly next to the beachfront with indoor and outdoor seating.
20% VIP
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La Botte Ristorante & Pizzeria
Mozza Mia Hua Hin
Cuisine: Italian, Pizza ประเภทอาหาร: อาหารอิตาเลีย ่ น, พิชซ่า 菜肴: 意大利菜, 披萨
Cuisine: Burrata, Cold cuts, Fresh and hard cheese, Wine, Italian coffe and Croissants no Service Charge Parking: Street
Address: 123/56 Nongkae close to Cicada Market Tel: 032 655 078 Web: www.la-botte-huahin.com
Address: G Mall, Shop A106, Soi 94 Phetkasem, Hua Hin 77110 Tel: 032 900 250 Facebook: Mozza Mia Hua Hin
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10% VIP
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Shoreline Beach Club Amari Hua Hin
Gusto Et Cosy Beach Restaurant Cuisine: European, Thai, Seafood ประเภทอาหาร: อาหารยุโรบ, อาหารไทย, อาหารทะเล 菜肴: 欧洲菜 , 泰国菜, 海鲜
Located directly on the Khao Takiab beachfront, this BBQ beach side lounge offers simple, grill favorites by day and a more extensive barbecue 10% choice in the evening.
Address: Khao Tao, Hua Hin Tel: 093 887 7688 and 032 900 500 Email: sales@theblueskyresort.com Web: www.theblueskyresort.com/HuaHin/
Address: 117/74 Takiab Road, Nongkae Hua Hin Tel: 032 616 600 Email: reservations.huahin@amari.com Web: www.facebook.com/ShorelineBeachClub/
VIP
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Aqua Pool Bar Amari Hua Hin The menu blends international poolside favourites with “Tastes of Thailand”. Both Thai and foreign guests alike will enjoy snacking noodle soups, satay, 10% fresh fruits and other dishes.
VIP
Address: 117/74 Takiab Rd, Nongkae, Hua Hin Tel: 032 616 600 Email: reservations.huahin@amari.com Web: www.amari.com/huahin/restaurants.aspx 10
HUA HIN TODAY, TODAY, May November 2018 2015
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Lotus Villas Restaurant Cuisine: International ประเภทอาหาร: อาหารนานาชาติ 菜肴: 国际菜 Address: Tab Tai, Soi 112, Hua Hin Tel: 032 510 106 & 081 943 1732 Email: reception@blacklotus.asia Web: lotushuahin.com
10% VIP
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30% VIP Alphabetical list
Discount up to 30% for Hua Hin Today VIP Card holders
Seara International Sports Fitness System Thailand. Hua Hin. Sports Engineering And Recreation Asia Ltd. We provide high quality products and services to many market sectors including private homes,health and fitness facilities hotels and resorts too. Address: 70/129-130 Soi Mooban Huana, Tambon Nongkae, Ampur Hua Hin, Prachuapkhirikhan, 77110, Thailand. Tel: 032-510 866-7 Email: info@searasport.com Web: www.searasports.com
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Sala Monsoon at Putahracsa Hua Hin A restaurant where the ambience is relaxed and chic. Start the day with a sumptuous buffet breakfast and indulge in simple Thai dishes, fresh salads, creative pasta dishes and innovative sandwiches for lunch. Address: 22/65 Naeb Kaehat Rd. Hua Hin Tel: 0 3253 1470 Email: info@putahracsa.com Web: www.putahracsa.com/sala-monsoon-restaurant
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Bakery Shop at Marrakesh Resort & Spa Home for Creative Bakery, Pastries, Coffee, Drinks by the Sea อร่อยเพลินริมชายหาดกับเบเกอรีม ่ ด ี ไ ี ซน์แห่งใหม่ลา่ สุดของหัวหิน
Address: 63/411 Petchkasem Road (between Soi Hua Hin 83/185), Hua Hin Tel: 032 616 777 Email: reservations@marrakeshresortandspa.com 15% Facebook: facebook.com/MarrakeshResortandSpa VIP Web: www.marrakeshresortandspa.com 31
Oceanside Beach Club Restaurant at Putahracsa Hua Hin Cuisine: Seafood, Mediterranean, Barbecue, Thai ประเภทอาหาร: อาหารทะเล, ทะเลเมดิเตอร์เรเนียน, อาหารไทย 菜肴: 海鲜, 地中海菜, 烧烤, 泰国菜 Address: 22/65 Nahb Kaehat Rd., Hua Hin Tel: 032 531 470 Email: booking@putahracsa.com Web: www.oceansidebeachclub.com
10% VIP
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Putahracsa Ob-Oon bakery shop
Ocean Terrace Restaurant Novotel Hua Hin
Hua Hin’s newest French-style bakery and pastry shop ใหม่ลา่ สุดในหัวหินของเบเกอรีส ่ ไตล์ฝรัง่ เศสและร้านขนมพาสตี้ 华欣最新的法式面包糕点店
A popular Hua Hin Restaurant, the Ocean Terrace offers an casual open-air restaurant overlooking the ocean.
Address: 22/65 Nahb Kaehat Rd. Hua Hin Tel: 032 531 470 Email: fbm@putahracsa.com Web: www.oboonhuahin.com
10% VIP
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Coral Restaurant & Bar at Banyan The Resort
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Devarana Spa at Dusit Thani Massage Oil, Body Treatments, Water Treatments ... นวดน้าำ มัน, นวดบำาบัดร่างกาย, กายภาพบำาบัดในน้าำ ... 按摩油，全身护理，水疗
Cuisine: Thai ประเภทอาหาร: อาหารไทย 菜肴: 泰国菜 Address: Banyan The Resort, 68/223 Hua Na, Hua Hin Tel: 032 538 888 Web: www.banyanthailand.com
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Spa & Wellness at InterContinental Hua Hin The serene environment of InterContinental Hua Hin Resort is an ideal place for wellness therapy, whether you would like to detox, relax, energize, or simply recharge. Address: 33/33 Petchkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 616 999 Email: ichh.rsvn@ihg.com Web: huahin.intercontinental.com/spa-wellness
Address: 854/2 Burirom Road, Cha Am Beachfront, Petchaburi Tel: 032 708 300 Email: rsvn@novotelhuahin.com Web: novotelhuahin.com/hua-hin-restaurants/ocean-terracerestaurant/
20% VIP
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Address: 1349 Petchkasem Road, Cha-am Tel: 032 520 009 Email: info@devaranaspa.com Web: www.devaranaspa.com/en/huahin.html
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Shine Spa at Sheraton Hua Hin
Unwind, relax and rejuvenate at Shine Spa of Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, the perfect place to start your relaxation holiday. For guests seeking the ultimate in relaxation and efficiently, our bi-monthly promotion is designed for a sophisticated and holistic experience. Address: 1573 Petchkasem Road, Thambol Cha-Am, Hua Hin Tel: 032 708 000 ext. 6201 10% Email: spa.huahin@sheraton.com VIP Web: www.sheratonhuahin.com 35
Spa at Lotus Villas & Resort Hua Hin
Spa at Rest Detail Hotel Hua Hin
Lotus Villas & Resort Hua Hin Massage & Spa offers various treatments in our spa. You can also enjoy a massage in the privacy of your villa.
Body Treatment, Signature, Special Treatments ... รักษาร่างกาย, การบำาบัดประจำา, พิเศษตามรายการ ... 全身护理，局部护理
Address: Tap Tai, Soi 112, Hua Hin, 77110 Prachuap Khiri Khan Tel: 032 510 106 Email: info@lotushuahin.com Web: www.lotushuahin.com/en/facilities/massage-spa.html 26
Address: 19/119 Soi Hua Hin 19, Hua Hin Tel: 032 547 733 Email: rest@restdetailhotel.com Web: www.restdetailhotel.com/spa.html
SPA Cenvaree Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin Set amongst a tranquil landscaped tropical garden, the spa features 9 treatment rooms and outdoor Thai massage sala.
20% VIP
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Quan Spa Marriott Hua Hin Quan Spa, located here within the resort, offers a wide range of soothing massage therapies and beauty treatments. Pamper yourself during your Hua Hin visit, and be sure to explore our excellent spa packages.
Address: 1 Damnernkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 512 021-38 Email: spacenvareechbr@chr.co.th Web: www.spacenvaree.com/spa-cenvaree-at-centara-grandat-beach-resort-and-villas-hua-hin 27
Address: 107/1 Phetkasem Road Hua Hin Tel: 032 904 666 Web: www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/fitness-spaservices/hhqmr-hua-hin-marriott-resort-and-spa/ 37
Cape Spa Cape Nidhra Hua Hin
Breeze Spa at Amari Hua Hin
Located in the fabulous Cape Nidhra Hotel in Hua Hin, the newest Cape Spa reflects the luxury and style of this new Cape property.
Discover Breeze Spa at Amari Hua Hin, where an array of fun and easy treatments awaits you. Let us send you to a peaceful state of body and mind, to help you to rejuvenate from the rigors of everyday life.
Address: Petchkasem Road, Hua Hin, Hua Hin Tel: 032 516 600 Email: reservations@capenidhra.com Web: www.capenidhra.com/spa.php
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Noora Spa at Marrakesh Resort & Spa Hammam Spa with finest argan oil from Morocco, Hot candle massage with gold powder, Red wine bath. ฮัมมัมสปาตำารับอาร์แกนออยล์จากโมร็อกโก, นวดเทียนร้อนผสมผง ทองคำา, แช่ไวน์แดง 30% SPA套餐包括按摩浴缸和桑拿
VIP Address: 63/411 Petchkasem Road, Hua Hin Email: nooraspa@marrakeshresortandspa.com Tel: 032 616 777 Web: www.marrakeshresortandspa.com 29 Orchid Massage
Address: 117/74 Takiab Road, Nong Kae, Hua Hin Tel: 032 61 6600 #7801 Web: www.breeze-spa.com/amari-huahin/
20% VIP
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Dayspa at Putahracsa Hua Hin Body Massages, Spa Packages, Hand and Foot Care ... นวดร่างกาย, แพคเกจสปามือและการดูแลเท้า ... 全身按摩，水疗套餐，手部和脚部护理 Address: 22/65 Nahb Kaehat Rd. Hua Hin Tel: 032 531 470 Email: booking@putahracsa.com Web: www.putahracsa.com
10% VIP
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In Balance Spa Novotel Hua Hin Resort
Thai Massage, Foot Massage, Oil Massage นวดแผนไทย, นวดฝ่าเท้า, นวดน้าำ มัน Address: Soi Samorpong, Tippawan Village, Krong Road, Hua Hin Tel: 087 366 8829 Web: www.facebook.com/Orchid-Massage-687683044722139/
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In Balance Spa by Novotel is designed according to the concept of Hua Hin. Where you can relax and replenish your health and “Free babysitting during spa treatment at Novotel Hua Hin” Open Daily: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm Address: 854/2 Burirom Road Cha Am Beachfront Tel: 032 708 300 Email: rsvn@novotelhuahin.com Web: www.novotelhuahin.com
30% VIP
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HUA HIN TODAY, November HUA HIN TODAY, May 2015 2018
848 Alphabetical list
30% VIP Discount up to 30% for Hua Hin Today VIP Card holders
Amari Hua Hin
Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin Set on the beachfront, with a wide expanse of gardens perfect for strolling and enjoying the sea breezes. Address: 1 Damnernkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 512 021 Email: chbr@chr.co.th Web: www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centaragrand/chbr/
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Sophisticated comfort and exclusive service await you at Amari Hua Hin. Situated near the glittering Gulf of Thailand, the resort offers thoughtful accommodation in an idyllic garden setting. Address: 117/74 Takiab Rd, Nongkae, Hua Hin Tel: 032 616 600 Email: reservations.huahin@amari.com Web: www.amari.com/huahin/ 51
Blue Sky Resort
Dusit Thani Hua Hin Overlooking an idyllic beach on the Gulf of Thailand and surrounded by lush greenery, provides the ultimate resort experience in a historic destination.
The concept of The Blue Sky Hua Hin is to combine Modern architecture with nature by the sea with each room type has its own characteristic and design.
Address: 1349 Petchkasem Road Cha-am, Petchburi Tel: 032 520 009 Email: dthhrsvn@dusit.com Web: www.dusit.com/dusitthani/huahin/
Address: Hua-Hin 101, Nong Kae, Hua Hin Tel: 02 247 7310-11 Email: sales@theblueskyresort.com Web: www.theblueskyresort.com/HuaHin/
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Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa
Marrakesh Hua Hin Resort & Spa
Nestled right on the pristine beach in sunny Hua Hin, Thailand, our hotel offers travelers an unparalleled resort experience.
It’s hard to stand out in a sea of selfies these days, but the unparalleled architecture of Marrakesh Hua Hin Resort & Spa provides something uniquely outstanding.
Address: 107/1 Phetkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 904 666 Email: bookhuahin@marriott.com Web: www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/hhqmr-hua-hin-marriottresort-and-spa/
Address: 63/411 Petchkasem Road, Nong Kae, Hua Hin Tel: 032 616 777 Email: reservations@marrakeshresortandspa.com Web: www.marrakeshresortandspa.com
InterContinental Hua Hin Resort
Lotus Villas & Resort Hua Hin
InterContinental® Hua Hin Resort lends to Thailand’s premier seaside community unrivalled style, sophistication and comfort.
This unique Residential Resort offers you luxury, space and privacy. The villas have their own private gardens & feature all standard facilities expected in a 4 star resort.
Address: 33 Petchkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 616 999 Email: ichh.rsvn@ihg.com Web: huahin.intercontinental.com
Address: 112 Soi 102 Tambon Thap Tai, Hua Hin, Chang Wat Tel: 032 510 106 Email: info@lotushuahin.com Web: www.lotushuahin.com
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Banyan The Resort, Hua Hin
Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am Resort & Spa This Hua Hin Resort offers recreation and entertainment options for singles, couples and families. Address: 854/2 Burirom Road Cha Am Beachfront Petchaburi, Hua Hin, Phetchaburi Tel: 032 708 300 Email: rsvn@novotelhuahin.com Web: www.novotelhuahin.com
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Putahracsa Hua Hin
Banyan The Resort is located minutes from the centre of Hua Hin town and is the ideal holiday destination for families, couples and golfers. Address: 68/223 Hua Na, Petchakasem Road, Nong Kae Tel: 032 538 888 Email: booking@banyanthailand.com Web: www.banyanthailand.com/en/resort/the-resort
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BaBa Beach Club Hua Hin Luxury Hotel by Sri Panwa
Putahracsa Hua Hin allows guests to combine the charms of small town leisure together with a beach hideaway. Address: 22/65 Naeb Kaehat Rd. Hua Hin Tel: 032 531 470 Email: info@putahracsa.com Web: www.putahracsa.com
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Experience the unique Baba Beach Club style, limitless luxury, live acts and performances, and gastronomical ventures.
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Address: 758, Thewtalay Estate, Phetkasem Rd., Tambon Cha Am, Amphur Cha Am, Phetchaburi 76120 Tel: 032 899 130 Email: huahin@bababeachclub.com Web: www.bababeachclub.com 56
Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa
The 88 Condo Hua Hin
Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa is situated on Cha-am beach north of Hua Hin where memories are made at every turn.
Comfortable condo with kitchen, near Khao Hin Lek Fai View Point, with one 7 storey and two 8 storey buildings and a total of 251 units, located on Soi 88 and easy access to the beach.
Address: 1573 Phet Kasem Rd, Tambon Cha-am, Phetchaburi Tel: 032 708 000 Email: reservations.huahin@sheraton.com Web: www.sheratonhuahin.com
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Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas Welcome to Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas, where 53 private Pool Villas provide the ultimate in peaceful seclusion. Address: 9/22 Moo 5 Paknampran, Pranburi Tel: 032 708 000 Email: sheraton.huahinpranburi@sheraton.com Web: www.sheratonhuahinpranburi.com
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Address: 88 Hin Lek Fai, Amphoe Hua Hin, Chang Wat Tel: 099 441 4152 Web: www.88condohuahin.com
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Thew Talay Estate Designed to offer a unique experience of coastal living, the coveted enclave is bountiful in comfort of amenities and beauty of seaside surroundings Address: 779 Phetkasem Road, Cha Am, Cha-am District, Phetchaburi 76120 Tel: 096 681 1828 Web: www.facebook.com/ThewTalayEstate/
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Cape Nidhra Hotel, Hua Hin
Sansara Black Mountain, Hua Hin
The Cape Nidhra Hotel, Hua Hin is a member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and part of the luxurious Cape Hotel Collection.
Exclusive luxury apartments and golf course pool villas come with round the clock hospitality at an accessible price.
Address: Petchkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 516 600 Email: reservations@capenidhra.com Web: www.capenidhra.com
Address: 565 Moo 7, Nong Hieng Road, Hin LekFai, Hua Hin Tel: 02 683 0088 Email: customercare@sansara.asia Web: www.sansara.asia
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Amber Kitchen Hua Hin Marriott Resort
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The Park Hua Hin
Amber Kitchen is the bright, family-friendly restaurant at Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa, offering classical and contemporary dining with a colonial twist.
Choose beauty. Choose quality. A collection of two, three and four bedroom Luxury Pool Villas are available for you to choose.
Address: 107/1 Phetkasem Rd, Hua Hin Marriott Resort and Spa, Hua Hin, Hua Hin District, 77110 Tel: 032 904 666 Web: https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/hhqmr-hua-hinmarriott-resort-and-spa/ 50
Address: 244 Moo 9, Tab Tai, Hua Hin Tel: 098 398 9831 Email: sales@lotusvillashuahin.com Web: www.lotusvillashuahin.com/en/the-park/
HUA HIN TODAY, TODAY, May November 2018 2015
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Cornering the Korean Style BBQ Market in Hua HIn
Corner 112: Soi Hua Hin 112 into Soi Hua Na 1 HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
10 50 Songkran 2018; the Joys and the Sorrows
As the main summer break the Thai New Year as a family oriented celebration and a time to get amongst revellers for the biggest street party of the year; Songkran should be the happiest time of the year. A Final Celebration; Lanna Style
Last year was a very quiet celebration on the streets with the mourning period for the late King being observed however reports from many checking out the street this year, describe a relatively quiet scenes. For some this was a relief with the ‘water attacks’ largely being limited to one day rather than 3 days of constantly trying to avoid a soaking.
Hua Hin’s Northern Society held it’s annual event on Friday 20th April. Hua Hin’s Mayor, Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul, along many other local dignities and representatives of the Hua Hin Cha-am Tourism Association were in attendance.
Foreigners on the street not in traditional in ‘dress’
Songkran Lanna style
Some of the more traditional elements of Songkran on show Sheraton GM Bruce Dupuis as the ‘Songkran sheriff’
The Lanna Songkran tradition of Rod Naam Dam Hua is a traditionasking for forgiveness and blessing. Dignitaries were seated at a long table as those in attendance filed by to pour rose and jasmine scented water over their hands. Apart from asking for blessing, it is also believed to wash away bad things in life and welcome good fortune. Over 200 guests joined in the celebrations, with everyone in colourful and grand traditional Thai or northern Thai dress. Local singers entertained the crowd and there was also a traditional Miss Songkran beauty pageant.
The Sorrow of Songkran
Due to the horrific toll on life and limb due to road crashes fuelled by speed and alcohol
The Cha-Am Beach Patrol
Cha-Am’s Songkran included a mini kite festival this year
Despite all the protestations by officials about the need to abide by the rules of the road, not to drive drunk, tired or at speed, the 2018 ‘bad and ugly’ statistics show that nothing has changed with the toll exceeding the 2017 fatalities. A total of 418 people were killed and 3,897 others injured in 3,724 road accidents during the seven dangerous day of Songkran period from April 11-17, according to the Road Safety Centre. This year’s figures surpassed those of last year when 390 people died and 3,808 injured in road accidents during the sevenday road safety campaign.Drunk driving was the main cause of fatal accidents or 40.28% while most accidents, or almost 80%, involved motorcycle.
NakhonRatchasima is the province with highest death toll of 20 persons, followed by Phetchabun (13), Chon Buri and SakonNakhon (12 each).Chiang Mai came with the highest road accidents of 133 cases, followed by Nakhon Si Thammarat (120) and Phitsanulok (106). NikornChamnong, a member of the Leadership Council of the Global Network for Road Safety Legislators and President of the People’s Safety Foundationclaims that there is a habit among locals to appease each other over road safety violations, which he sees as “part of the country’s DNA.” Stricter laws were put in place, such as driving without a license, which can carry a prison sentence of up to three months instead of the previous maximum penalty of only one month. However road crimes that account for the majority of accidents, such as speeding, drink driving, not wearing a helmet and driving through red lights, remain poorly enforced. HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
11 51 The Legend of Dusit Thani Hua Hin Modern History in the Making
It was in Late 1988, Khun Kampi Suwanarat and particularly Thanpuying Chanut entrusted Khun Victor Sukseree to open and be the first General Manager of a new five-star Dusit hotel to be built in Hua Hin. Previous experience working for Dusit had apparently put him in pole position to undertake this extravagant investment in what was then a relatively new international Thai hospitality destination. Hua Hin with strong historical Royal connections had long been favoured by Bangkok families seeking a gentle less commercialised respite from city life; you might say a more relaxing and refined alternative to the more flamboyant destination of Pattaya. Thus from the onset, the style and design of the hotel was to be grand and opulent. Khun Victor’s brief from Thanpuying Chanut was to run and develop the hotel as if it were his own. The hotel’s 1990 opening was a grand affair most graciously presided over by our beloved late King Bhumibol’s sister HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana. The name of the hotel at that time was the ‘Dusit Resort and Polo Club’, hence, the reason why till this day the hotel is still fondly referred to by many people involved in the early days as ‘Dusit Polo’. Well, 30-years on, Khun Victor looks back on his time at the hotel as a labour of love with so many landmark moments that only a few may be included here. 2003 saw
the grand opening of the hotel’s renowned Devarana Spa, later to be followed by the Royal Dusit Hall. With facilities and expertise to host almost any kind of hospitality related events, including two ASEAN Summits when international leaders and statesmen crossed the hotel’s impressive threshold, following in the footsteps of many royal guests, contributed to making the hotel a landmark in the history of Hua Hin in its own right. The hotel also became the home of the Swedish Consul Office in Hua Hin upon the appointment of Khun Victor as Honorary Consul to Sweden. Khun Victor’s love of theatre both as an entertainment media and with regard to providing the ‘wow factor’ in hospitality is well known with many MICE related events coming to expect the unexpected and be delighted by the unique experiences the hotel reliably delivered. This ultimately led to their annual return as part of their organisation’s highlight of the year. Part of the spin off this had was that many very well know celebrities of stage and television have over the years generously attended and performed at the hotel’s legendary New Year Parties. Attracting up to 400 guest each year, the surprising fact is that so many of the guests knew each other, attending every year making it as much of a reunion of friends as a fitting and spectacular international celebration.
Over the years the hotel has received numerous accolades from highly respected industry recognised bodies, but Khun Victor says that it is when guests come back year after year, often staying for months at a time and tell you that the hotel is their home from home that one really feels a sense of achievement and measure of success. Khun Victor’s passion for hospitality excellence has driven him to succeed based on his ethos that there are no half-measures on the path to success. He is also driven to inspire and pass on to others what he has learned along the way, lecturing at colleges and training programmes plus radio and TV ventures that he says will continue throughout his retirement from management. Well there have been hundreds of weddings, no doubt many conceptions also, at the hotel and life will continue as
Khun Victor’s masterful baton passes to a new conductor with the brief that the show must go on. Nothing stays the same, says Khun Victor, vouching for the fact that hospitality now is very different from when he started out. The hotel will undoubtedly keep pace with new innovations and industry trends, implementing Dusit identity into the mix. The hotel has continuously occupied almost half of Khun Victor’s life and he admits to feeling like a parent must feel when their child leaves home and ventures out into the world on their own. My interview with Khun Victor concluded with him saying that he has great expectations plus confidence that the ground work and preparation for the hotel’s future is sound and wishes his successors as rewarding an experience as he has enjoyed, fondly adding: ‘thank you Dusit Polo’.
FOOD & Entertainment, May 2018
12 52 Playing Polo for Princess Pa
Beachside at the InterContinental Resort Hua Hin was the venue of last month’s 2017 Princess Pa’s Cup, the Asian Championship of Beach Polo. Apart from the main polo event, other equestrian events included horse racing, barrel racing and the all-important fashion parade on horseback.
Hot competition for the 2018 Princess Pa Cup. The opening and official cup awarded to a team from Malaysiay
Some of the ‘after-party’ celebrations
Sponsored by the InterContinental Resort, Proud Real Estate and B. Grimm, this was the annual event fund raising for the Nabha Foundation under the patronage of HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha. The Foundation gives a chance to the disadvantaged and marginalised; especially to give a new start in life to current and former prison inmates.
All Pizza 220 baht
HUA HIN TODAY, May 2018
Into the evening, high fashion continued to be on show with a blue theme for the cocktail dinner and fund-raising auction. More winners were in the fashion stakes as high society and high fashion added that essential touch of glamour that is always a part of Beach Polo in Hua Hin.