Hua Hin Today May 2021

HUA HIN • CHA-AM • PRANBURI

ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

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BANGKOK RANKED 31st FOR THE WORLD’S BEST CITIES IN 2021 A significant rise from last year as Covid-19 success is recognised p.9

PRACHUAP PROVINCE PROVING rd A SUCCESS AT FIGHTING 3 WAVE 27th April saw just seven new cases in Hua Hin as infections continue to fall’ ‘Pressure on HH hospital eases p.2

THE SIRINDHORN INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL PARK A wonderful must visit location midway between Hua Hin and Cha am p.30

Majestic Creek Golf Club & Resort is one of the most unique golf courses in Thailand since there is a 27 -hole gem, lying in the beautiful undulating countryside close to the mountains separating Myanmar from Thailand and only 25 minutes outside the Royal town of Hua Hin. There will be a very warm welcome for you here at the Majestic Creek Golf Club and Resort and we look forward to seeing you soon.

MAJESTIC CREEK GOLF CLUB & RESORT 164 Moo 4,Tab Tai, Hua Hin 77110, Thailan Tel: +66 (0) 3251 0672 Mobile: +66 (0) 81 942 3619 Email: bookings@majesticcreekcc.com www.majesticcreekcc.com

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ISSUE 225 • APRIL 2021

Cover Story

PRACHUAP PROVINCE PROVING A SUCCESS rd AT FIGHTING 3 WAVE

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pril 2nd was the day that Hua Hin hospital confirmed the discovery of the city’s 9th Covid-19 infection, the local community wondered if it was an isolated case. Then it emerged that the infected person worked at The Crystal Pub in Bangkok, already cited as the site of a ’superspreader’ event and mentioned daily in newsreels, a worrying revelation.

She had travelled to Hua Hin to visit family with her boyfriend, he soon became case No 10, and whilst here went they to the Maya Pub with a group of friends, and also visited many locations across the municipality, fears grew. Our expectations were soon confirmed and local infection numbers started to grow much more quickly than at any time during 2020, the dreaded 3rd wave was upon us.

The new outbreak was occurring just before the long Songkran holiday and local businesses feared the worst, however Hua Hin/Cha-am Tourism Business Association was quick to point out that quarantine measures only applied to people that had been in certain infected locations, others were free to come from Bangkok, many of us were sceptical. Whether fear of catching the virus in Hua Hin, or fear of being asked to quarantine was the reason, 30% of hotel bookings were cancelled, (a much lower cancellation rate than suffered across Thailand).

It must be said that both the Governor and Prachuap Public Health in general stood up to be counted and set about their business to minimise disruption, and get the region back on track as soon as humanly possible.

They started issuing regular and precise information about new infections, their source, and the locations in the region they had visited, they made their instructions clear that anyone that had been in these locations should get tested and/or self-quarantine if they had any symptoms. Any relatives or friends that had come into contact with an infected person MUST self-quarantine for 14 days. They also strongly advised people not visit busy or risky locations unless absolutely necessary.

As the end of the month draws near we can say that the measures and restrictions appear to have paid dividend and the end of the 3rd wave in the

region looks close. Infection numbers are falling daily and are on course to be totally eradicated soon. Success is being achieved across Thailand but generally speaking our region is outperforming most of the others and for that we should all be grateful.

Restrictions look likely to be lifted soon and those that choose to can return to a near normal life, socialising will again be allowed and business owners can hopefully begin paying off their debts and looking forward to a rosier future.

Vaccination rollout is slow and disappointing so we cannot allow our guard to slip and must keep practising the essentials of washing hands, wearing a mask and keeping a distance. New initiatives like SHA and SHA Plus, sanitary safety standards, are being strictly introduced across hospitality and service providers. This should make any new outbreak less likely and more controllable if it should occur before vaccinations can become more effectively used.

Acknowledging that the government is in the process of acquiring 100 million vaccine doses to inoculate 70% of the population, Project ‘Re-charge’ was presented to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Health, Anutin Charnvirakul, on his recent visit to Hua Hin. The project is a joint venture between government, private agencies and TAT and its goal is to vaccinate everyone in the region and fully reopen on October 1st.

From the Editor

HUA HIN TODAY

MANAGEMENT Honorary Chairman: Dr Thanachai Theerapattanavong Chairwoman: kittikorn Theerapattanavong CEO: Titikorn Theerapattanavong CFO: Duangsuda Pirompin

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Dear Reader,

s Editor of Hua Hin Today I can say there has never been a harder time to write this letter in the time I have been in the post. There is very little to write about that isn’t Covid-19 related, even stories that are not directly about the pandemic usually have a footnote connecting them to issues of lockdown and the like.

The government had created a special long holiday as a boost for the economy, and local businesses were delighted and prepared to welcome tourists visiting during the ‘Songkhran week’, which all entrepreneurs look forward to and expect to be able to make some much needed money. And then everything changed and I realised the meaning of, “the World can change in a single day”, it seemed that the world had stopped spinning for a while after the unexpected happened and happened so quickly, Hua Hin became unnaturally quiet.

We have experienced a wide range of economic, social and medical impacts since the Covid-19 epidemic began over a year ago, economic issues, social impacts, national programs related to health that were affected. And now due to the third wave the pandemic is having an even greater impact on jobs, business, travel and other sectors, ultimately affecting the socio-economic equilibrium.

What can we say? That we are careless and angry that we didn’t set our guard high enough? That we weren’t prepared enough to plan our vaccination program? Because all hope is surely now in the vaccine. It can be seen that in countries with high infection rates, where vaccination programs have been well planned and carried out quickly, such as in America and the UK, there has been a sharp decline in their infection rates and deaths. I still have confidence in the Thai government that they are in control compared to many other countries, however, need they cooperation from all of us as well.

The officials of all departments in our home province are dedicated both physically and mentally in order to resolve the situation back to normal soon, and we as entrepreneurs, should cooperate and take good care of ourselves, to be healthy and get strong in order to be ready to run again.

Perhaps shining a wee bit of light, PM Prayut Chan-o-cha confirmed that at least 100 million doses, enough to vaccinate 70% of the entire Thai population will be available within this year.

What’s scarier than a Covid-19 infection is the lack of a bed to sleep in at night!

Yours truly, Ms Visa Chimdee (Editor-in-Chief)

EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief: Visa Chimdee Sub-Editor: Martin Cooke Art Director: Panyaporn Panyachote ADVERTISING Visa Chimdee Tel: 086 3693 604 e-mail: visa@huahintoday.com MARKETING Digital Marketing: Kayes Nihon PRODUCTION Production Manager: Lamai Wongwanakul JAYNALYN MEDIA Co Ltd (Hua Hin) Address: 87/3 Soi Hua Thanon 19, KhaoTakiab Road, Nong kae, Hua Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan 77110 Website: huahintoday.com Facebook: facebook.com/huahintodaynews Twitter: twitter.com/huahintoday Tel: 086 3693 604, 032 900 150 Email: visa@huahintoday.com JAYNALYN MEDIA Co Ltd (Head Office) Address: 194 Soi Pridi Banomyong 46 (Soi Chit Wari), Sukhumvit 71 Road, Klong Tan Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: 02 391 9595

COMMERCIAL COOKING GAS REGULATIONS TIGHTENED T

he Cabinet has approved the ministerial regulation to tighten the rules for gas distribution stores, they will no longer be allowed to store gas or trade from buildings of multiple commercial use. Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, Deputy Spokesman for the Prime Minister’s Office, revealed that the Cabinet meeting approved the proposal by The Ministry for Energy to regulate the cooking gas store business to a higher safety standard to prevent serious accidents.

The new regulation will state tightened rules on location, layout and construction quality for all gas storage and distribution as follows:

Do not set up a store that sells LPG cylinders in condominiums, shopping malls, exhibition buildings or liquefied petroleum gas service stations.

• A storehouse located within 6 metres from other buildings must store no more than 2,400 litres of liquefied petroleum gas, but if located more than 6 meters from other buildings, it can store liquefied petroleum gas no more than 12,000 litres.

• Type 2 stores (stores with more than 500 litres of liquefied petroleum gas) must have a distributed fire protection and suppression system, and a fire suit that can be sprayed with water to cover the area where the LPG tank or gas canister is stored.

Existing businesses must comply within 1 year of the new Ministerial Regulation coming into force, and existing distribution shops located in commercial buildings shall be exempted from obtaining the consent of the owner of the neighbouring commercial building with a joint wall.

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ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

Local News

HUA HIN AIRPORT SET FOR MORE INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

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n exciting plan has been announced by The Phoenix Group & the Department of Airports. Under the name ’The Phoenix Plan’ the project aims to upgrade Hua Hin Airport and make Hua Hin “open to the World”.

By utilising private enterprise and government levers they intend to create a “best in class airport experience”. Commercial partners will benefit from innovative opportunities to conduct a broad range of activities ranging from duty-free shopping, meetings, conferences & exhibitions, to tourism loyalty programs, hanger space and private jet logistics. (The Phoenix Group is a collaboration between Phoenix Aviation International Ltd Hong Kong & Phoenix Aviation Thailand Ltd).

For passengers, the plans promise significantly more international flights arriving at Hua Hin Airport.

On April 7th, Khun Apisit Ubolkomut, Director of Hua Hin Airport, Khun Udorn Olsson, Chairman of Phoenix Aviation Thailand Ltd, & John Laroche, CEO of Phoenix Aviation International Ltd of Hong Kong presented the ‘The Phoenix Plan’ at an event held at the airport.

The plan described by Dr Pullop Singhaseni, Governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, as “the single most important initiative for Hua Hin Airport since its inception 30 years ago”, he went on to say “ The Phoenix Plan will not only have an impact on Hua Hin but will positively affect Prachuap Khiri Khan, Cha-am & Phetchaburi too”, bringing more tourists that stay longer and spend more”.

Khun Udorn went on to say he believed “the timing of this announcement could not be better, as the World awakens from the Covid pandemic and Thailand re-opens for tourism and business”.

John Laroche explained further that The Phoenix Group were targeting small regional airports that had been largely overlooked and cited a Japanese model as the foundation base for their plans. The critical issue according to Khun Udorn is “the need to create critical mass prior to introducing a host of new routes and services.

The link between the airport & the town is the breakthrough concept that the Phoenix Plan will deliver, a genuine partnership that will offer passenger services, unique sponsorship partner opportunities, and genuine tourist services in the town and the airport”. Companies interested in partnering will be invited to join a special digital network serving visitors, residents, service providers, hotels, restaurants, retail and attractions. Anyone visiting these partners will be encouraged to download the App to fully benefit.

The projected market is direct flights to and from locations within a 7 hour range, including China, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, India, Australia & the Middle East. The project has a target of 100,000 passengers in 2022 rising to 1,000,000 bay 2025. Special emphasis is planned for medical tourism and health & wellness. Current partners include Chubb Insurance & NYC English.

BORDER PATROL STATION 146 THE FIRST IMMIGRANT QUARANTINE FACILITY

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order Patrol Station 146 in Prachuap Khiri Khan province has recently been renovated, and secured by a surrounding barbed wire fence in readiness to receive immigrants fleeing from Myanmar. The two-storey building can accommodate up to 100 people and will be used as a Covid-19 screening and quarantine facility. Immigrants will be held at the building in Khlong Wan sub-district, tested and quarantined before being brought into the legal proceedings.

Border patrol officers will be pleased that this will reduce the risk they previously faced during a busy period of high numbers illegally crossing the border. Their aim is to now educate people in the area to present themselves rather than acting unlawfully and presenting a health risk to innocent border villagers on the Thai side.

HUA HIN TODAY

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ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

Local News

PUBLIC HEALTH REMINDS PEOPLE TO DISPOSE OF THE USED MASK PROPERLY

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inistry of Natural Resources and Environment expects a soaring waste problem caused by mask wearers during the Covid-19 outbreak. Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Mr. Jatuporn Athipat, said that people must strictly adhere to the anti-infection measures by using a face mask at all times, but this has created a monumental task of mask disposal, these masks are classified as infectious waste due to bodily secretions such as mucus and saliva and must be disposed of accordingly whether or not the wearer had suffered from the virus.

To correctly dispose of this type of waste it has to be sorted into a closed container, and collected in trash clearly labeled ‘infectious waste’, disposing of masks within general waste is strictly prohibited. It is vital not to create an environmental catastrophe in the natural environment which would have an enormous detrimental impact on nature, wildlife and people.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment asks for the cooperation of the people, that when disposing of masks, be sure to separate the mask waste properly by cutting, breaking, rolling or folding the side that touches the face inward and putting them into sealed bags and writing on the front of the bag, ‘Disposable face mask waste’. This will enable responsible agencies such as local government organisations or public health agencies to properly collect and separate the used masks for destruction.

WILD ELEPHANTS IN KAENG KRACHAN AND KUIBURI

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meeting was held at Hua Hin District Office to discuss the management of wild elephants in both Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces. Mr. Sarawut Nuangjamnong, House of Representatives member and Chairman of the Extraordinary Commission to consider and study the problem of wild elephants, has visited the area to monitor the management and solutions to the problem, and all people affected by the problem were invited to attend the meeting.

The meeting, attended by representatives of local government agencies, acknowledged the growing problem in the areas of Kaeng Krachan National Park, Phetchaburi, and Kuiburi National Park, Prachuap

Khiri Khan, and discussed ideas and suggestions on how to improve the situation and the problems and obstacles with these ideas. So far the National Parks have erected semi-permanent elephant protection fences, and excavated ‘elephant ditches’, but not all affected areas have yet been covered. In addition, real-time wildlife cameras have also been installed to monitor when the elephants leave the protected areas to feed, and then officers are dispatched to attempt to return them to the safe confines of the parks, this tactic has so far proven to be very effective.

However, there are of course many problems, the elephants are reluctant to return if they have found a good feeding spot, and sometimes the hilly terrain and the villagers’ agricultural land means there is not a simple return route. The meeting resolved to build an additional barrier fence to cover the affected areas, and to build water facilities and create additional food sources in the forest, it is hoped these measures will prove a success and there will be less incidences of damage to farms and property of the villagers.

Local News

HUA HIN TODAY

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HUA HIN RECHARGE PROJECT D

eputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Health, Mr Anutin Charnvirakul, arrived at Hua Hin airport via private jet on April 22nd. He was visiting to see at first hand the effect the Covid-19 third wave was having on the town and in particular Hua Hin hospital. On arrival he was met by Dr Phallop Singhaseni and a group of local business people led by Mr Krod Rojanasthien and Miss Wassana Srikarnchana.

The group of local entrepreneurs handed Mr Anutin their plan for Hua Hin to recover quickly, re-emerge from lockdown, and come back to being even better than before, they have called it ‘The Hua Hin Recharge Project”. In it they request that vaccination is prioritised to the region due to the large numbers of short term visitors, both foreign and Thai, they feel that if residents and workers receive the vaccine early, it will enable a faster return to normal due to the confidence felt by potential visitors. Mr Anutin said he will take the matter to the cabinet to expedite further consideration.

Economic analysts have expressed a belief that if the government is able to hit its target of vaccinating 70 percent of the population, the economy could still grow 3-4% this year, urging the private sector to help fund the undertaking.

Acknowledging that the government is in the process of acquiring 100 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine, enough to inoculate 50 million people, or 70% of the population, the faster the process is carried out the quicker the economy can return to growth. The chamber believes that if the 70% target is reached this year 3% growth in the 3rd quarter and 4% in the 4th quarter is possible when high season starts.

The largest wine vineyard in Thailand, where you can experience award winning Monsoon Valley wines in the most spectacular of settings. There are many outdoor activities for families and adults including our vineyard tour, elephant sanctuary, wine bottle painting, cycling and enjoy a panoramic picnic.

Enjoy delicious local and international food and find your favorite bottle to drink in or take home.

Our Wine Bar setting gives you the option to enjoy either our lush terrace or inside while admiring the colorful décor. Follow us on social media to discover a range of great events and special occasions.

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ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

Thailand News

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BANGKOK RANKED 31 FOR THE WORLD’S BEST CITIES IN 2021

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ancouver based global consultancy group, The Resonance Consultancy, placed Bangkok 31st best city in the world for 2021, a rise of 27 places from 58th last year. The rankings were compiled for major World cities with a population of more than 1 million people. For 2021 The Resonance Consultancy has added three new factors that will certainly have helped with Bangkoks dramatic rise: • The impact of COVID-19 and the cities response • The city’s population unemployment rate • The number and severity of COVID-19 cases.

1st London - England (Sixth consecutive year placed 1st) 2nd New York - United States of America 3rd Paris - France 4th Moscow - Russia 5th Tokyo - Japan 31st Bangkok - Thailand

MASSAMAN VOTED ‘WORLDS BEST’… AGAIN C

NN named Massaman curry the ‘World’s Best Food’ in its recently updated list of the 50 most delicious dishes ever created. Massaman, a coconut based meat curry, was described by CNN as “The king of curries and perhaps the king of all foods”, due to its strong flavours, “the dish masterfully blends spicy, coconut, sweet, and savoury flavours”. The other Thai dishes that made the list were: Tom Yum Goong, or shrimp soup - 8th, Nam Tok Moo, an Isaan dish of grilled pork, toasted rice, onions, mint sprigs and chilli - 19th, Somtam, or papaya salad - 46th.

Meanwhile, in CNN previous readers polls SEVEN Thai dishes won the hearts of people around the World and were voted for, emphasising Thai foods status as one of the Worlds leading cuisines.

As well as Tom Yum Goong in 4 th, and Somtam in 46 th, Pad Thai was voted in 5 th spot, “If there was a ‘Hall of Fame’ for food, Pad Thai would have without a doubt earned itself a spot”, said Tim Cheung, a travel writer at the news giant.

CNN also wrote: “The Land of Smiles isn’t just a marketing catch-line, it’s a result of a way of life in a land where the World’s most delicious food is sold on nearly every street corner. If only the Thai government felt the same way and would stop making street food vendors disappear.

If you’re gonna share your opinions for free on the Internet, why not do it for a chance to win some exciting prizes? Take our 2021 Coconuts Reader Survey now!

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SIVANA HIDEAWAY VILLAS : Soi HuaHin 126, Phetkasem Road, Nongkae, HuaHin, Prachuabkirikhan Thailand 77110

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ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

Community

ORCHID PARADISE PUNKS

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s we all know the last year has been one of the most difficult in living memory for many people, due to the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns.

Many families have had no work and therefore no substantial income to support them, families that were previously entirely self-sufficient have had to rely on help from others, and The Orchid Paradise Punks Motorcycle Club have certainly stepped up and played their part.

This is the third year that ’The Punks’ have hosted presentations for local children, sponsoring 50 kids spread over four different schools for the school year 2021-22. The schools being, Ban Nong Khon School, Ban Nong Hiang School, Hua Hin Municipal School and Hua Hin School. Each of the children sponsored was provided with a complete school uniform, sports uniforms, and scout uniforms including shoes, socks and school bags. The presentation was well attended by the group members

CHARITY HUA HIN THAILAND C

harity Hua Hin Thailand, (CHHT), has been operating since 2010 when a Director of Hua Hin Hospital initiated a project to provide much needed wheelchairs in the city.

The wheelchairs were donated by The Wheelchair Project under the Royal Patronage of The Rajanagarindra Institute for Child Development in Chiang Mai, and CHHT volunteers carried out home visits with hospital staff to assess and manage their provision. The project later also donated shower and toilet chairs, and CHHT now provides everything that the disabled need to realise basic living conditions which we may take for granted.

Since then CHHT has been a very active organisation in the city organising events raising over THB 500,000 for excellent causes. In 2019 a ’Study Fund’ was launched to enable children from families in poverty to enjoy a proper education, this pays for school fees, books, uniforms, sports clothes and travel costs for kids between the ages of 4 and 17, many of these children are now finding a route out of poverty and dependency.

During these times of Covid-19 more people have found themselves struggling and CHHT volunteers have been able to assist around 50 families every month, 100% of donations are spent catering for the needs of families with a disabled member as CHHT volunteers bear all their own costs.

For full information about the people and families CHHT support, or if you would like to help with a donation or volunteer, click the button below to visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/charityhuahinthailand, or for more information about Charity Hua Hin Thailand, visit www.charityhuahinthailand.com

HUA HIN TODAY

HUAHIN TODAY MAGAZINE SIZE: 29.5 x 42 cm.

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Offbeat News

ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

YOUR COUNTRY’S NATIONAL DAY

9th MAY IS NATIONAL SLEEPOVER DAY National Sleepover Day is a day when kids can persuade their parents that they need to go and stay over at their best friends’ houses.

Sleepovers can play a big part in helping kids develop friendships and in creating lifelong memories, to chat, tell stories, sing songs, dance, and cry and confide with the people they feel closest to at that stage of their lives.

20th MAY IS NATIONAL DOG RESCUE DAY Millions of dogs enter shelters around the World every year and this is a day to stir your thoughts to maybe adopting one of these abandoned furry friends. Instead of spending big money on that cute pedigree that may have been born in a pet farm, make enquiries locally about shelters and rescues and give a loving life to an animal in need. They will have all shapes and sizes to suit what you’re looking for and will give you and your family a lifetime of pleasure.

17th MAY – NORWAY Constitution Day can be referred to as Syttende Mai, Nasjonaldagen, or Grunnlovsdagen. The day is a public holiday observed every year by Norwegians on the 17th May, it commemorates the signing of the Constitution of Norway at Eidsvoll in 1814 that declared Norway an independent Kingdom, those instigating the act were keen to avoid being ceded to Sweden after Denmark/Norways devastating defeat in the Napoleonic wars. Originally celebrations were started by students and young people and was at one point banned as it was considered a protest, it became more formal in 1833 and fully established in 1864 when the first children’s parade took place.

11th MAY IS NATIONAL EAT WHAT YOU WANT DAY A day observed by those that like the idea of freeing themselves from diets and strict fitness/ eating regimes. A day off to indulge with no guilt and no regrets. Whether you love burgers, doughnuts, cake or cookies you can go for it with no holds barred.

16th MAY IS NATIONAL BARBECUE DAY

21st MAY – MONTENEGRO 21st MAY IS NATIONAL BIKE TO WORK DAY On the 3rd Friday in May, National Bike Month, people are encouraged to try to bike to work if it is a possibility for them. Not everyone can take part but this day asks people to give it a try and they just might fall in love with the practice. Cycling is growing exponentially worldwide and the benefits will be seen long into the future as people’s health improves as a consequence. There is also the green benefit to the planet. Please use the roads carefully, Thailands roads are not as safe as those found in many parts of the World.

Don’t worry if you forget because the aroma wafting down the street will quickly remind you of this day. Be it charcoal, wood or gas the BBQ’s will be well alight on this day. Pork is the original and still most popular meat of choice, but maybe beef, lamb, chicken, burgers or sausages is more to your liking.

25th MAY – JORDAN 31st MAY IS NATIONAL SMILE DAY

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We find the answers to all your questions about business in the digital era.

The Balkan Nation of Montenegro borders Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia Herzegovina and Albania and has a coastline on the Adriatic Sea. The name Montenegro means black mountain and was first used in the late 15th century before the country fell under the rule of the Ottoman empire. It regained independence in 1696 as a theocracy, then a principality and in 1910 became a Kingdom. After World War l it became part of Yugoslavia and then following the break up of that country it federated with Serbia. Following a referendum in May 2006 it once again became an independent Nation. It is now an established European country.

Surely we can all endeavour to join in with this one, what’s not to like about smiling? Try it with the first person you see on leaving the house, likelihood is you’ll get a great response, (be careful if it’s a beautiful girl with a big fella though). Smiles are powerful, the more you smile the healthier your brain can be as smiling has a direct link and helps to reduce our stress levels and make us feel more confident about ourselves, you might just lift someone else’s spirits and make their day too.

Celebration of independence from the United Kingdom is observed each year on May 25th. An Arab country in the Levant region of Western Asia, on the East bank of the river Jordan. Bordered by Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria and Israel and with coastlines on the Dead Sea and Red Sea. Occupied throughout history since the Paleolithic period Jordan has constituted a part of many empires including the Persian, Roman and Ottoman, and the caliphates of Rushidun, Umayyad & Abbasid. After the great Arab revolt during World War l in 1916 the Ottoman Empire was partitioned by Britain & France and the Emirate of Transjordan was born in 1921 and became a British protectorate. In 1946 Jordan became an independent sovereign state in its own right. A constitutional monarchy, a founder member of The Arab League and one the most stable countries in a very volatile region.

HUA HIN TODAY

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ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

Opinion

MARIJUANA IS ‘LEGAL’ IN THAILAND NOW, BUT NOT YET 100%

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orld Cannabis Day falls on April 20th each year, but this year it is a product that enjoys a different status in Thailand compared to the day in recent history. A Royal decree signed by his Majesty the King means there are now numerous legal ways to possess and use cannabis. Thailand’s first cannabis cafe, ’Taste of Ganja’, opened in Prachin Buri and another called ’The 420 Cannabis Bar ‘opened in Bangkok recently. These outlets focus on using the leaves of the plant and possession of said leaves is totally legal.

The Department of Thai Traditional & Alternative Medicine recently held a 2-day informational event at the Museum of Public Health & Medicine in Nonthaburi, in order to inform people the ‘cans’ and ‘cannots’ when it comes to growing and using Marijuana.

For individual use there are possibilities for people that have specific health conditions that can be improved by the intake of cannabis, but first they must obtain a license or a prescription by a duly qualified person. Conditions deemed to be improved by the intake of cannabinoids, CBD, include: • Nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy treatment • Epilepsy • Multiple Sclerosis • Nerve Pain

Other conditions under consideration include: • Terminal Cancer • Parkinson’s Disease • Alzheimer’s Disease • Anxiety Disorder • Demyelinating Disease The DTTAM is actually encouraging sufferers to attain the necessary approval and grow the plant for themselves, as long as the psychoactive component Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is only found in very low traces and is not used or sold you are unlikely to face any problems.

In terms of growing, seven people can join together to form a ‘Community State Enterprise’ but each of the seven may grow no more than six plants. They must also enter into a contract with a local community health promotion or a government agency and each application will be considered according to the suitability of the site, have surveillance cameras installed, and undertake certain control guarantees.

One thing is clear, we are only in the earliest stages of an enormous growth industry. The list of attainable benefits from controlled use of the cannabis plant are immense. And then there are the benefits of decriminalisation and the potential reduction in crime.

Hotel News

HUA HIN TODAY

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BANYAN TREE GLOBAL FOUNDATION L

ast month, Banyan Tree Global Foundation announced a new partnership with EARTHDAY.ORG’s reforestation program, working with groups around the world to plant trees for a greener future.

Banyan Tree Krabi, has taken matters into its own hands by launching a beach clean-up campaign starting on Earth Day, April 22. And they are enlisting the help of guests at the resort by turning what some would call a mundane task into a fun activity, including environmental awareness tips for kids and kayaking.

Banyan Tree Samui also organised a similar activityfor Earth Day yesterday when they conducted an underwater cleaning campaign, freeing some 38 kg of ropes, plastics and other non-biodegradable waste from the coral reefs that flanks the resort From April 22 to May 5, an Earth Day Getaway will be available at 39 Banyan Tree resorts globally, including Banyan Tree Samui and Banyan Tree Krabi, where they will offer up to 35 percent savings, plus the hotel will donate $2 for each night’s stay towards tree planting.

MELIA CHIANG MAI HOTEL

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alcony Media Group is now representing new five-star hotel Meliá Chiang Mai in Thailand’s mountainous north, slated to open September this year. We’re preparing an initial release on this now and expect to send on official notice in May. Meliá Chiang Mai will cut the ribbon on 260 rooms and suites, as well as two restaurants, two bars and two lounges including a 21st-floor executive lounge with panoramic views of Chiang Mai. The resort will also be home to a spa, fitness centre, swimming pool, a ballroom and four other meeting spaces, and more.

With a design to pay tribute to Chiang Mai’s charming history and culture in a contemporary way, the hotel will tower over the River Ping and bustling Night Bazaar in the heart of Chiang Mai’s city centre. Its 360-degree rooftop bar on the 22nd floor will comprise two bars connected by a glass bridge and afford spectacular vistas of the River Ping to the city’s east and Doi Suthep Temple on the mountaintop to the west.

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ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

Health

By Dr. Kate Boonyakiat, DAOM, LAc – Terra Acupuncture

FINDING THE ROOT CAUSE OF YOUR HEADACHE: MIGRAINE HEADACHE In the last article I talked about tension headaches.

In this article, I will discuss migraine headaches.

WHO SUFFERS FROM MIGRAINE? Women are more likely to suffer migraines than men, due to the fact that oestrogen is a common factor in their cause, especially when levels are fluctuating during the menstrual period, specifically when oestrogen becomes low migraines are more likely to occur. Besides oestrogen, other factors include stress, lifestyle and diet, migraines can also be hereditary, as many migraine sufferers report having family members who also suffer from these headaches.

It is essential to learn what is likely to trigger your attacks, do your best to avoid them altogether, but where that is not possible make preparations for the forthcoming pain. Foods such as chocolate, cheese and monosodium glutamate are common causes, and emotions such as stress, worry and depression are also migraine triggers, so recall what occurred prior to your attack and take the necessary action to prevent it happening again.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? It’s usually a throbbing, intense, and debilitating pain and features nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and is exacerbated with head movement. Migraines mainly affect one side of the head, but some people experience pain on both sides. The episodes typically last anywhere from a few hours to several days, and they are recurring with warning signs beforehand. The frequency of migraine attacks occur differently from person to person, from once in a lifetime to almost daily.

How can acupuncture help?

Chinese medicine distinguishes between two primary causes of migraines: External and Internal. An external origin occurs when Wind-Heat, Wind-Cold or Wind-Damp invade the acupuncture channels located in the head. These are common syndromes occurring when environmental pathogens penetrate the body, and impede the movement of blood and Qi to the head. Internal causes include genetics, improper diet, emotional problems or chronic conditions caused by internal organ dysfunction.

We identify where the migraine has developed using a detailed diagnosis plan, its cause, (internal or external), and then select the suitable Chinese herbs and acupuncture points to treat the migraine at its root.

Health

HUA HIN TODAY

17

HOW GOOD IS MINERAL WATER?

I

t is surely one of life’s most known facts that water is both vital and beneficial for our bodies, but with so many options available in the bottled water sector we decided to look into ‘Mineral Water’, what is it? What’s in it?

What are its benefits? What should be avoided? Basically mineral water is groundwater that comes from a natural source that has the presence of various minerals, predominantly Calcium, Sodium, Magnesium, Potassium, Fluoride and Sulphur.

Mineral water benefits: • Helps maintain the body’s natural acid-base balance due to the co-function between Potassium & Sodium • Normalises the functionality of the cardiovascular system and blood pressure level to prevent arrhythmia.

• The Calcium, Magnesium and Fluoride levels can be a contributory factor in strengthening bones and teeth.

• Helps moisturise the skin as it contains high silica levels slowing down development of wrinkles. (Either by drinking or spraying directly onto the skin).

Although the benefits are almost totally felt across the board each individual mineral requirement can vary, each body functions differently and each person has different routines and health practices. Thus each person

should determine their specific needs and monitor any adverse reaction to heavy consumption. There are alternative means to get essential minerals into the body such as eating mineral rich foods, e.g. fruit and vegetables, cooking by steaming can maintain higher levels of minerals.

Although it is safe and generally beneficial to our health, those suffering certain health conditions should practice extreme care, these include: • People with Edema, Kidney Disease & Abnormal Heart Function should be cautious about drinking any mineral water.

• Patients with High Blood Pressure should avoid mineral water with high levels of Sodium & Sodium Chloride.

• People with high acid secretion and peptic ulcers should avoid drinking mineral water containing Sodium Chloride • Patients with respiratory diseases, especially bronchospasm, should avoid sulphur mineral water • Patients with gastrointestinal problems and ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract should avoid sulphate mineral water.

18

Golf News

ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

MAJESTIC’S REPORT T

he last 4 weeks at Majestic have been very different.

We have only managed to play our Weekly Competition on 2 occasions, first one 26th March when we had 28 players and 8th April with 26 players taking part. The game scheduled game on 15th April was cancelled as one of the Societies in Hua Hin had a 3 day away golfing trip to Kanchanaburi, which included the 15th, which left an insufficient number of players wishing to play in the competition.

As most of you will already know, the competition on 22nd was canceled due to the Coronavirus problem that has suddenly peaked in the Hua Hin Area. We had a golfer who had played at our course on the weekend of 10th/11th April, who we found out had been tested positive and after careful investigation and with relevant consultation with the Local Authority, the management decided to send the relevant Caddies and their spouses, who are on our staff, home to quarantine for 14 days, during which time they would be tested for the Virus. In this respect the Local area health authority came to the course on 22nd, lead by Mr Prayong Chantateng, Hua Hin District Chief, together with local health officers and local administrative agencies. They joined hands with Majestic Creek’s Management and staff to conduct a thorough cleaning process of the facilities, including the club House, Locker Rooms, Restaurant, Golf Carts and Garage, Kiosks, Resort and Swimming Pool. The Golf course was closed for 3 days, from the 16th April and reopened on Sunday 19th April.

The course is still in excellent condition and the results for our competitions are as follows.

25th March, 1st, Ian Wooldridge 39 points handicap 14 2nd Georges Santin 39 points handicap 16 3rd Dave Hammond 36 points handicap 22 Guest Prize We had 4 guests playing and Rob Jones 41 points handicap 18 came first Nearest the pins, Hole A4 Olivier Pinard Hole A6 Tim Mitchell

Ian Wooldridge

8th April, 1st Cecilia Harvey 38 points handicap 18 2nd Kirsty Mitchell 38 points handicap 19 (loosing on countback) 3rd Tony Southgate 38 points handcap 8 (losing on a countback) Guest Prize.

Rob Jones 40 points handicap 16 Nearest the Pins Hole A4 Colin Cunningham Hole A6 Pau Morris Hole B12 Paul Unthank Hole B17 Jim Harvey Any players wishing to take part in our Weekly Competition, can register at the Pro Shop, or by email to; bookings@majesticcreekcc.com Please make your reservation by Tuesday Evening and your Tee Time will be sent to you on Wednesday morning. If you are not a member, please include your current playing handicap when registering.

COME AND ENJOY YOUR GOLFING AT MAJESTIC CREEK

Cecilia Harve

HUA HIN TODAY

19

Law

20 ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

W

CHECKING BUILDING CONTRACTS

hat to do when a building contractor abandons the job that he is contracted to do for you, for example?

Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) reports to the Hua Hin Municipality that home construction is now important business as many people want to have their own homes.

To find a good contractor to build their homes, consumers may know about contractors from advertisement, brochure and friends and associates.

But consumers may also not know enough about the construction contract and find that a

contractor later abandons work unfinished.

The consumer protection office can conciliate in disputes between consumers and contractors, protecting consumers from falling prey to contractors.

OCPB said consumer complaints about contractors range from substandard or low-quality materials, not finishing the job in prescribed time, not being responsible for damage disclaimer or abandoning the project altogether.

Many things can go wrong during a construction project and OCPB urges consumers to check and thoroughly read the construction agreement.

Construction of business and residential buildings is subject to the contract control BE 2559 (2016) that sets out what a residential construction contract must specify: It must state details of the parties in the contract showing addresses and identification, corporate registration number, place and date of the contract, purpose of the construction, a description of the building and construction location.

Also it must show details of construction costs, inclusive of value added tax, details of quantity and price of materials and payment schedule in accordance with work in progress.

After acceptance of the work and if construction defects are discovered, the consumer has the right to inform the contractor to rectify those defects within a reasonable period of time.

If the contractor is unable to rectify the defects, as required by the legal contract, the consumer may engage a third party to carry out rectification work and charge all costs incurred to the contractor.

To clarify terms and conditions of a residential building construction agreement, browse www. ocpb.go.th or call hotline 1166.

WHAT TO DO WHEN A CONTRACTOR ABANDONS THE JOB

H

ua Hin municipality was informed by the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) that home construction becomes trendy business because many people want to have their own homes. To find a good contractor to build a home, consumers usually may know them from advertisement, brochure, associates, and so on. Sometimes, consumers may not be aware of the construction’s contract and contractor’s review; therefore, they end up with the contractor abandoning the work.

The OCPB revealed the complaints about contractors that were filed by consumers, such as: using substandard or low-quality materials; not finishing the job in prescribed time; not being responsible for damage disclaimer; and abandoning the project.

Although the OCPB tried to conciliate disputes between consumers and contractors, the complaints regarding “Home Construction” issue are still filed, and the consumers fall prey to contractors.

Since many things go wrong during the course of a construction project, the OCPB urged consumers to check and thoroughly read the construction agreement which should be under the Notice of the Contract Committee for the business of residential building construction which is subject to contract control B.E. 2559 (2016). The notification outlines several terms a contractor must contain in all residential construction contracts, such as: The details of the parties to the contract with the parties’ addresses and identifications/corporate registration number, the place and date of contract, the purpose of the construction, a description of the building, and the construction location; The details of the construction costs (inclusive of value added tax; Bill for quantity and price of materials; The payment schedule in accordance with work progress.

If a construction defect is discovered during the construction and after acceptance of the work, consumers have the right to inform the contractor to rectify any defects that arise during the reasonable period. In the event of being unable to rectify the defects as per the contract, the consumers may engage third parties to carry out the concerned rectification works, and back charge all related costs to the contractor.

If you have any questions about terms and conditions within residential building construction agreement, please browse: www.ocpb.go.th or call hotline: 1166.

HUA HIN TODAY

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22 ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

World Sports News

FORMULA 1: MIAMI TO HOLD FIRST GRAND PRIX IN 2022 Miami will hold its first Grand Prix in 2022 after Formula 1 secured a 10-year deal for a race in the state of Florida.

The move is the conclusion of years of work by F1’s owners Liberty Media, who wanted a race in a US “destination city” as they seek to promote the sport.

The event will be held on a 3.36-mile track around the Hard Rock Stadium, home of the Miami Dolphins NFL team.

Miami becomes the second race in the US, joining the popular United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas.

A date for the Miami event has not yet been announced, but F1 president and chief executive officer Stefano Domenicali said it would be “in the second quarter of next year”.

Miami Dolphins chairman Tom Garfinkel, the managing partner of the Miami Grand Prix, said: “The Hard Rock stadium entertainment campus in Miami Gardens exists to host the biggest global events to benefit the entire greater Miami region, and Formula 1 racing is as big as it gets.

CRICKET: GLOUCESTERSHIRE BEAT SOMERSET FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 28 YEARS Gloucestershire beat local rivals Somerset by eight wickets to register their first County Championship win at Taunton for 28 years.

James Bracey added an unbeaten 83 to his first-innings 118 to guide his side to victory on the final morning.

Having resumed on 28-1, Bracey and Kraigg Brathwaite (36) safely negotiated the first hour to ease any lingering Gloucestershire nerves.

The result, however, was really set up by Gloucestershire’s bowlers on the third day in skittling Somerset for 149 - after the hosts had held a slender three-run lead on first innings.

A first victory at Taunton since 1993 means Gloucestershire have now won each of their first two opening matches in Group One.

RUGBY: OWEN FARRELL LEADS BIG WIN AS ENGLAND PLAYERS STAR England captain Owen Farrell returned for Saracens to lead them to a big Championship win at Doncaster.

Farrell and fellow England players Mako and Billy Vunipola, Maro Itoje, Jamie George and Elliot Daly all started.

The English captain played 53 minutes, kicking three conversions as Saracens scored five tries before half-time. His neat grubber kick also set Scotland international Maitland clear for an early try at Castle Park.

All of the England players were withdrawn by the final quarter after Itoje had added to his two tries against Bedford late last month with their third score of the first half, a pick-and-go from close range.

CYCLING: MARK CAVENDISH WINS FOURTH STAGE IN TURKEY AS PIDCOCK MISSES OUT IN AMSTEL GOLD Tom Pidcock was beaten to Amstel Gold victory by Wout van Aert following a barely-discernable photo finish.

The 21-year-old Briton, who races for Ineos Grenadiers, appeared to round Belgian star Wout van Aert in the final sprint for the line in the Netherlands.

Organisers took 15 minutes, studying a digitally enhanced photo, before giving Jumbo-Visma rider Van Aert the victory.

Meanwhile, Mark Cavendish took his fourth sprint win of the Tour of Turkey in last month’s finale.

The Deceuninck-Quick Step rider had not won a race for nearly three years but the victories herald a major return to form.

At 35, Cavendish is one of cycling’s most successful sprinters, with 30 Tour de France stage wins, and it was thought he had lost much of his pace.

The Tour of Turkey is in the second division of elite cycling below the top-tier World Tour events, but many now believe Cavendish is capable of playing a part in some of the biggest races this season.

TENNIS: FEDERER TO PLAY AT FRENCH OPEN Roger Federer has confirmed he will play in this year’s French Open as he’s still recovering from his knee injury.

Federer, 39, is making his comeback after two knee operations and has not played a Grand Slam since January 2020. The 20-time Grand Slam winner made his return after 14 months out at the Qatar Open in March but has not played since.

During last month’s press conference, he said will play the clay-court Geneva Open in May followed by Roland Garros, which begins on 30 May. Federer, who won his only French Open title in 2009, overcame Britain’s Dan Evans in his comeback match in Doha in March but was then beaten by Nikoloz Basilashvili in the next round.

After losing to Novak Djokovic in the 2020 Australian Open, he had an operation on his right knee and after a further setback was ruled out of the entire coronavirus-hit season.

ATHLETICS: GATESHEAD TO HOST FIRST FIXTURE OF THE SEASON Gateshead will host the first Diamond League fixture of the season on 23 May because coronavirus restrictions in Morocco are stopping the event from behind held in its capital city Rabat.

The meet is an important build-up event for the rearranged Tokyo Olympics.

UK Athletics chief Joanna Coates said the UK was a “lower risk option for athletes” because of the success of the vaccine rollout.

She added that a home-based event will help British athletes’ preparations.

It is hoped some fans may be able to attend, subject to England’s easing of coronavirus restrictions as outlined in the government’s roadmap out of lockdown.

“We know our athletes need more opportunities to compete at a high level this year and that Covid-19 has been a challenge for us all,” she said. “Even with exemptions for elite sport, many athletes do not wish to take the additional risk of contracting the virus so close to the Games.”

HUA HIN TODAY

23

AT

At Black Mountain Golf Club, a very special and exciting new dining experience has arrived. Hua Hin town’s renowned Prime Steakhouse restaurant has come to Black Mountain, serving probably the best steaks in Thailand.

Everything from Wagyu rib eye, fresh fish, pasta, salad, desserts & European specialty dishes are exquisitly prepared by Anders and his master team.

A warm Thai welcome to Prime Steakhouse awaits you at Black Mountain.

Restaurant open from 6am to 9pm

To book a table: Email: restaurant@bmghuahin.com Phone: 032 618 620 Mobile: 089 028 3547

Free shuttle from Hua Hin for groups Tel: 089 028 3547

24 ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

EUROPEAN SUPER LEAGUE: “A CLOSED CHAPTER…” - GUARDIOLA Manchester City head Pep Guardiola said the failed European Super League (ESL) was a “closed chapter” after his team beat Aston Villa to move closer to becoming Premier League champions.

Man City were one of 12 clubs to sign-in and joined the controversial ESL on Sunday, 18 April, but had suddenly back-out from the league on Tuesday after widespread criticism of the proposals, which would have seen no promotion or downgrading and a divided movement for English football.

“As a club we accept and learn and focus on the reason why we’re here,” said Guardiola.

“It’s a chapter which is over, a closed chapter. They [the owners] don’t need to apologise [to me], I know them, I know how they are.”

In another news source, Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli says the ESL project ‘cannot proceed’ as AC Milan, Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid joined the six Premier League clubs in withdrawing.

Agnelli was one of the chief architects of the breakaway plans, which involved 12 clubs from England, Spain and Italy.

Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan had also announced their withdrawal on Wednesday, 22 April, followed by statements from Juventus and AC Milan.

Football News

ATLETICO CRUISES TO VICTORY OVER EIBAR Atletico Madrid raises their standing at the top of La Liga with a convincing win in their match against struggling Eibar.

Angel Correa scored twice just before half-time, heading in from close range and then stealing home Yannick Carrasco’s pass.

Atletico’s title charge has stumbled in recent weeks and injuries to key players Luis Suarez and Joao Felix have left them light in attack.

But Correa’s first goals since February gave them a platform and they cut loose after the break.

In a persuasive race for the La Liga title, Atletico have their destiny in their own hands but may need to win all their remaining games to secure top spot.

WHY SAKA COULD BE ARSENAL’S FUTURE CAPTAIN JUVENTUS’ CHAMPIONS LEAGUE HOPES IN JEOPARDY AFTER LATE DEFEAT AT ATALANTA. Ruslan Malinovsky’s 86th-minute sidetrack shot flew past a wrong-footed Wojciech Szczesny to win it for the home side, who over-leaped Juventus into third place in last month’s Serie A match.

Atalanta are two points behind second-placed AC Milan, who beat Genoa 2-1. Andrea Pirlo’s Juventus are fourth, two points above fifth-placed Napoli.

Napoli could have knocked Juventus out of the top four in Sunday’s late game but they were held to a 1-1 draw by leaders Inter.

The top four in Serie A will qualify for next season’s Champions League.

Without the injured Cristiano Ronaldo, Juventus were struggling trying to break down their hosts and Alvaro Morata lacked composure with two presentable chances.

The one thing which stood out most about Bukayo Saka from an early age was his desire to succeed.

His ability to beat a man and versatility were also crucial to his development with both Arsenal and England.

“He was a very quiet boy, incredibly respectful, a great listener, desperate to please and wanted to do his best,” says Neil Dewsnip, former England under18’s coach. “We played him at left-back in a very attacking 4-3-3 shape, in the same team as Mason Greenwood. Bukayo could also play as an attacking winger, and could even go over to the right-hand side, so he was very versatile.

“His ability to run past people with or without the ball was superb, as was his one-on-one dribbling, and he could score a few goals.”

“He’s still in that breakthrough stage, really. He’s made a really good start to his football career, but there is a long way to go,” he says.

“He was always so humble. When you are that good at something and you are playing against others who aren’t on the same level, it is important to remain a good sportsman. One day, he’ll be Arsenal captain,” Dewsnip added.

“For a coach, there is nothing better than working with a player who breaks in at national level, but equally, expectations need to be managed.

ONLINE ABUSE: PREMIER LEAGUE MOVE FOR SOCIAL MEDIA BLACKOUT IN MAY The Premier League is planning a social media boycott in May in response to unrelenting online abuse of players.

Reported by Daily Mail, the proposal from May 1 - 3 is for clubs to boycott online media for 24 hours around their games, while the league will go silent for all three days.

It comes amid an increase in incidents of players receiving racist abuse. Premier League clubs have been asked to confirm their support for the blackout by 14:00 GMT on Monday.

Championship sides Birmingham City and Swansea and Scottish champions Rangers recently had also held week-long boycotts.

Anti-discrimination charity “Kick It Out” has said it would back a Premier League-wide boycott and some Premier League managers have supported the move.

RANGERS ENDED CELTIC’S FOUR-YEAR CUP REIGN Rangers ended Celtic’s four-year Scottish Cup reign - and condemned them to a first trophyless season since 2010 - to reach the quarter-finals with Old Firm derby victory at Ibrox.

Steven Davis’ overhead kick and a Jonjoe Kenny own goal before half-time decided a gripping, chance-laden game.

Celtic’s wasteful finishing culminated in Odsonne Edouard’s weak penalty being saved in the closing stages. Steven Gerrard’s side host St Johnstone in the last eight next weekend.

Having crushed Celtic’s bid for a 10th consecutive league title, Rangers are now three wins from adding the Scottish Cup after extending their 100% home record in domestic football this season.

Five years and a day since their last Scottish Cup defeat, a shootout loss to Rangers, Celtic again fell to their biggest rivals.

Celtic had their moments. Plenty of them. Stephen Welsh missed a glaring opportunity for an equaliser and Edouard and Mohamed Elyounoussi were the main culprits after the break.

HUA HIN TODAY

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26 ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

Sport News

MANCHESTER UNITED OWNERS NAME THEIR PRICE TO SELL CLUB, SPOTIFY OWNER EYES ARSENAL TAKEOVER

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he owners of Manchester United have set 4 billion pounds ($5.55 billion) as the asking price to sell the football club, the Irish Mirror reported.

“City investors believe a bid close to their £4 billion asking price would tempt brothers Joel and Avram (Glazer), who effectively run the club, to relinquish control”, the newspaper said, without mentioning the source of its information.

Manchester United officials had not commented at the time of going to press.

A small group of Manchester United fans gathered outside the club’s training ground on Thursday to protest against the Glazer family’s ownership as the backlash continued after their involvement in the breakaway European Super League.

United were among six Premier League clubs that signed up for the new venture before withdrawing on Tuesday amid a storm of protest from fans, players and the British government. United co-chairman Joel Glazer on Wednesday apologised to supporters, saying the hierarchy failed to show respect to the “deep-rooted traditions” of the English game.

United were bought by the American Glazer family for 790 million pounds in 2005. The club has been listed on the New York Stock Exchange since 2012, but the Glazers retain majority ownership.

Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, one of the leading figures in the breakaway European Super League project, will step down from his role at United at the end of 2021.

Meanwhile, Daniel Ek, the billionaire CEO and founder of the music streaming service Spotify, said he would be interested in buying Premier League club Arsenal if under-fire American owner Stan Kroenke wanted to sell the north London outfit. Thousands of Arsenal fans have gathered outside Emirates Stadium to protest against Kroenke following the club’s part in the failed attempt to form a breakaway European Super League.

“As a kid growing up, I’ve cheered for Arsenal as long as I can remember. If KSE (Kroenke Sports & Entertainment) would like to sell Arsenal I’d be happy to throw my hat in the ring,” Ek wrote on Twitter.

Former Arsenal players Dennis Bergkamp, Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieria have come out in support of Ek’s proposed takeover of the club.

HUA HIN TODAY

Green Fee

% 50 (฿1,950)

Tel: 032 618 666 • Email: proshop@bmghuahin.com • www.blackmountainhuahin.com

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28 ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

ADVICE FOR COVID-19 SUFFERERS

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ua Hin Public Health has issued a warning to people in the city to continue to wear masks, keep a safe distance, (2 metres where possible), wash hands at all times and check in at locations using the ‘Thai Chana’ or ‘Mor Chana’ Apps. Anyone suffering from the symptoms of COVID 19 should visit a hospital or field hospital to be get tested, you can also use ‘Line App’ and contact @sabaideebot or call the hotlines on 1669, 1668, 1330.

NOPPORN DELIGHTED AND THANKFUL TO BE RE-ELECTED

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e-elected Mayor, Mr. Nopporn Wuttikul, revealed that he was delighted and extremely thankful to receive the trust and support of the people of Hua Hin to serve once again, a result the Election Commission is expected to confirm soon. He explained that as soon as the confirmation comes from the EC he will throw himself into working to fulfil the policies he campaigned on and the issues that are important to peoples everyday lives.

Foremost in his mind is the water supply issue that was consistently mentioned during campaigning, he pledges to make a 90% improvement during the next year. Already tap water is deemed to be clean and flowing well, and importantly is much cheaper than many other areas.

Mr Nopporn would very much like to thank everyone that trusted him and voted for him, however he was disappointed that five members of his selected team were not elected to serve with him, but he fully respected the result.

City Brief

P

28 MERCHANTS CERTIFIED TO SHA PLUS

rachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Public Health Doctor, Dr. Suriya Kuharat, revealed that the province is creating a new sanitary safety standard, SHA Plus, in readiness to welcome back tourists. Working with local businesses on compliance measures for what will become the ‘New normal’ for the region. SHA Plus requires operators and service providers, such as hotels and restaurants to pass the standard appraisal and evaluations are being conducted continuously.

To date 28 venues have passed certification and this number will grow quickly as tourist attractions, retail stores, entertainment venues and other establishments come forward for accreditation. It’s hoped the scheme will give confidence to potential tourists to the province in the wake of the latest Covid-19 outbreak and re-establish Prachuap Khiri Khan as the holiday destination of choice.

TREASURY UNIT OF HUA HIN MUNICIPALITY ACCEPTING LOCAL TAX PAYMENT VIA QR PAYMENT SYSTEM

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he Department of Local Administration has informed of new guidelines for local tax payment via Krung Thai Bank on the computer accounting system of the local government organisation (e-LAAS).

The local government organisation can now prepare assessment documents and bank payment forms from the e-LAAS system to send to the taxpayer and the taxpayer can pay taxes through the counters of every Krung Thai Bank branch. In this regard, Hua Hin Municipality has started to enable local tax payment via banks using bar code/QR Payment system. Hua Hin Municipality Office has now sent the documents to all persons responsible for paying tax by mail, and after the taxpayer has made the payment then Hua Hin Municipality will issue the receipt and send it by mail to your home later.

Payment options are: • Counters of Krung Thai Bank Public Company Limited, (every branch).

• Via ATM, Internet Banking, Mobile Banking of all banks participating in Cross Bank Bill Payment service.

• Counter of Hua Hin Municipality by cash, bill of exchange or cashier’s cheque, by cheque at a branch bank in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, payable on behalf of Hua Hin Municipality.

These new arrangements are in response to the latest coronavirus outbreak to prevent spread of the disease and reduce congestion for people who have no means other than to pay the land and building tax at the municipal office.

For more information, you can contact the Treasury unit of Hua Hin Municipality at 032-511-047 ext. 104

City Brief

HUA HIN TODAY

FLOWING HEART TO SUPPORT HUA HIN HOSPITAL O

n April 19th, Mr Suraphon Rukkosol, Director of Chiva-Som International Health Resort, along with Mr Krit Rojanasathien, President of Hua Hin Protection Club visited Hua Hin Hospital to deliver mobile toilets and shower facilities. Their visit and donation is in response to the growing numbers of Covd-19 infected people in the city, to use during their 14 day hospital quarantine period, at the time of the visit there were approximately 100 such patients.

Mr Suraphon said that Chiva-Som and The Protection Club had become aware of how hard the nurses and staff at Hua Hin Hospital were having to work during this new outbreak, they felt that with the governments help they really wanted to do something to help and felt this was an effective solution.

That same afternoon teams from the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Hua Hin, also visited to make a donation to help the hospital, headed by Mr Suraat Narongrit, Chairman of the TCC and Miss Nicharee Subma, President of RCHH, they brought 200 sets of personal protection suits, masks, drinking water and paper, to be used in the daily examination and care of infectious patients as well.

FACE MASKS COMPULSORY IN PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN AND PHETCHABURI

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a n y p ro v i n c e s a c ro s s Th a i l a n d , i n c l u d i n g i n Prachuap Khiri Khan and Phetchaburi, have made it compulsory for people to wear face masks when out in public.

The requirement to wear face masks is aimed at further preventing the spread of COVID-19.

According to the Ministry of Interior, a fine up to 20,000 Baht in accordance with the Communicable Disease Act will be imposed on those for not wearing masks in both indoor and outdoor public spaces.

Face masks are now compulsory in Bangkok and 50 other provinces, including: CENTRAL • Ayutthaya • Bangkok • Lop Buri • Kanchanaburi (only at markets, flea markets and floating markets) • Nakhon Pathom • Nonthaburi • Pathum Thani • Phetchaburi • Prachin Buri • Prachuap Khiri Khan • Samut Prakan • Samut Sakhon • Saraburi • Suphan Buri

EAST • Phuket • Chachoengsao • Ranong • Chanthaburi • Satun • Chon Buri • Songkhla • Prachin Buri • Surat Thani • Trat • Trang NORTH • Yala • Chiang Mai People in Thailand • Lamphun are also advised to • Phetchabun follow the DMHTT • Phitsanulok precautions as • Sukhothai outlined by the Thai • Tak government.

• Uttaradit These are: NORTHEAST D – Distancing, • Amnat Charoen M – Mask wearing, • Buri Ram H – Handwashing, • Chaiyaphum T – Temperature • Khon Kaen check, and • Loei T – Thai Chana • Maha Sarakham contact tracing • Mukdahan application.

• Nakhon Phanom • Nong Khai • Si Sa Ket • Surin • Ubon Ratchathani • Udon Thani • Yasothon SOUTH • Nakhon Si Thammarat • Narathiwat • Pattani • Phang Nga

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30 ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

Travel

THE SIRINDHORN INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL PARK

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ast month I shared with you my excursion to Khao Mong Lai and the joy of staying there in a tent, I hope that many of you enjoy following in my footsteps. I really love nature traveling and one place that I had wanted to go to for a long time but still couldn’t find an opportunity was The Sirindhorn International Environmental Park, well they invited me to visit and to tell my story to the people of Hua Hin. This park was created to be a centre of knowledge, publicity, and training of an international standard on the conservation of energy, natural resources and the environment, as well as promoting ecotourism in order to stimulate and implant public awareness in sustainable development. The park is located at Khlong Ban Tra Yai and Khlong Ban Tra Noi, inside an army camp not far from Huai Sai Nua railway station between Hua Hin & Cha-am. This area was once an abundant mangrove forest full of a variety of plants and animals, now attempting to be recreated.

The centre is part of a nationwide network of centres developed by HRH Princess Sirindhorn, and provides an excellent introduction to Thailands new and innovative approach to environmental

management. There are different areas set aside to focus on nature conservation, climate change, pollution, sustainable use, recycling, and energy efficiency. It also has meeting rooms and is well designed to host conferences. We look forward to visiting more of them in the future.

The Sirindhorn International Park is a great source of knowledge for students, young people and the public in general, both Thai and foreign, and it is hoped many more people will utilise the training facilities and better understand environmental issues. The park is managed by the foundation of SIEP and was officially opened in person by HRH Princess Maha Chakra Sirindhorn in July 2008, her visit and the ceremony delighted the board and staff greatly.

It really is a great place to visit and is very visitor friendly, there is a wooden walkway and bridges winding through the eco-system of the mangrove wetlands, and you are at all times close to the sea and the refreshing breeze certainly helps on a hot day. Take your time and observe the flora and the wildlife that inhabit the park, and please read the signs that are provided in both Thai and English. It is a great choice for all groups of traveler

from the single person to families and groups, and only 15 minutes from the centre of Hua Hin. The Sirindhorn International Environmental Park is open daily from 08.30 - 17.00 and will re-open on April 30th. Please call 032-508-352. 032-508-379.

Or 032-508-405 if you wish to confirm.

Last Month

HUA HIN SUMMER SKATE FESTIVAL 2021

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roud Group, a leading Thai Integrated Entertainment and Resort destination property developer, in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand held a press conference to announce the ‘Hua Hin Summer Skate Festival 2021.

The press conference was presented by Ms Suwat Liptapanlop, who was announced as the President and Consultant of the project.

‘Hua Hin Summer Skate Festival 2021’ is one of a number of events being created to stimulate tourism in Hua Hin and to help the local economy return to pre-pandemic levels. It is in line with the policy of pursuing the establishment of Hua Hin as a a ‘Destination Lifestyle City’. Skateboarding or Surfskate is a fast growing sport, especially amongst young people, and if Hua Hin can be established as a recognised centre for it then it will surely be a good revenue stream for businesses here and create a further buzz in the city.

MONSOON VALLEY PRODUCES A GREAT TASTING WINE THIS YEAR

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any people might still not be aware that Thailand can grow grapes and make good-tasting wine, if so they should really pay a visit to the 700+ rai of land owned by Monsoon Valley Hua Hin Vineyard, a short drive West of the city centre in the foothills of the mountains.

They grow a wide variety of grapes and many have reached a very high international standard, being in the mountains but also close to potentially cooling sea breezes has been the perfect combination for Thai growing conditions, the quality of the soil in the area also contributes perfectly to adding a distinct flavour. Monsoon Valley Vineyard grow many varieties including: Colombard, Chenin Blanc, Sangiovese Rondo and Shiraz, and this year they are very proud of the great tasting wine they have been able to produce and are very keen that more people should come along and try the wines for themselves.

This year, like every year, Monsoon Valley invited tourists to visit during their harvest and to enjoy the activities such as grape picking competitions, learning traditional wine-making methods and the vineyard tour, although it was a bit late this year due to the coronavirus problem. The atmosphere of this year’s grape harvest held from the 3rd-11th April was superb and those that visited left feeling very satisfied, hopefully many will have become regular drinkers of the produce.

After the recent short closure for Covid-19 measure Monsoon Valley Hua Hin vineyard is again fully open for business and they are looking forward to welcoming you to visit them at the Sala Restaurant.

HUA HIN TODAY

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32 ISSUE 226 • MAY 2021

Majestic Creek Golf Club & Resort Majestic Creek Golf Club & Resort is one of the most unique golf courses in Thailand since there is a 27 -hole gem, lying in the beautiful undulating countryside close to the mountains separating Myanmar from Thailand and only 25 minutes outside the Royal town of Hua Hin.

Please call +66 (0)81-942-3619, email bookings@majesticcreekcc.com, or browse our website: www.majesticcreekcc.com to reserve for Green Fee. There will be a very warm welcome for you here at the Majestic Creek Golf Club and Resort and we look forward to seeing you soon.

By Hua Hin Today Newspaper

To advertise please call: +66 (0) 86 369 3604