Hua Hin Today November 2013

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Volume 11 Issue 1 November 2013

VINTAGE & CLASSIC CARS AT THE 11th HUA HIN AUTOMOBILE CONCOURS AND CAR PARADES 2013

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entara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin with Dr. Prachin Eamlumnow, President and CEO of Grand Prix International Co Ltd, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Hua Hin Municipality and the Prachuap Khirikhan Province with the support of five-star hotels in Hua Hin, is organising the 11th Hua Hin Automobile Concours 2013, to celebrate the 86th birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and the 81st birthday of Queen Sirikit.

Different Surprising Top-rated on T.A. Poon Sook Rd., opposite Burger King

A NEW PHASE, 11 YEARS IN THE MAKING

The Hua Hin Automobile Concours features a fun-filled program of activities and fine dining.

There will be a grand parade of more than 50 hard to find classic cars.

Highlighted cars include a RollsRoyce Silver Dawn, displayed by Dr Prachin Eamlumnow. This was an exclusive model built in England during 1949-1955. The vehicle was a birthday present for Chao Phaya Ramakob upon his return to Thailand, hence its affectionate nickname, “Ramprapath”. Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom also used this majestic vehicle during her State visit to Thailand when she visited His Majesty King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit.

Another classic car at the event is a 1928 Packard 626, displayed

by John Smith. The vehicle has not been shown anywhere else before. A 1964 Corvette Stingray used in the movie “Stingray” will be displayed by Syam Sethaputra The Event is the largest of its kind in along with vehicles belonging to Poj Thailand’s history and will be held Vitjittranon, Sawad Horrungrueng from 29th November to 1st December and Dr Surakiet Satienthai.

2013. Revenue generated from the Event will be donated to the There will be music and dining at the end of the first day’s event which Chaipattana Foundation. is Friday, 29th November at The Initiated by His Majesty King Venezia and Majestic Creek Hua Bhumibol, the Chaipattana Hin, and a gala charity dinner that Foundation is renowned for projects will take place at Centara Grand dedicated to improving the quality Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin on of life and self-reliance. The aim of Saturday, 30th November 2013. the rally is to raise awareness of Hua Hin as a destination for organising Anyone interested in attending or unique events and to give the public bringing their own cars to participate a chance to view these superb in the event can book classic cars.

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leven years ago this month two new English language ventures were born in Thailand, coincidentally both because of the vision of someone called George.

The founding fathers of these ventures were George Mastronikolis, who began Hua Hin Today and George Anderssen, the originator of ThaiVisa.

ThaiVisa and Hua Hin Today have entered into a joint venture.

Commencing with this issue of Hua Hin and Cha-am Today, this new venture will benefit both companies in a variety of ways, ThaiVisa will promote the huge user base and more than 20 web sites that Hua Hin Today has built over the years, the massive lane of followers on Facebook and Twitter (more than 150,000) and most importantly activate and organise the ThaiVisa Hua Hin Forum. As we all know ThaiVisa has the biggest and strongest forum about Thailand in the world, and with more than 160,000 plus registered members, ThaiVisa years of experience will help to maximize the benefits of our e-paper and connect the people under the forum of ThaiVisa.

ThaiVisa existing members and readers will now be able to read and learn more about Hua Hin and the

surrounding areas.

The new venture will give the opportunity to the advertisers of both companies to reach a massive number of readers (more than 300,000) on a daily basis with newsletters and breaking news to our followers and registered members and our e-paper will be delivered every month to all this readers.

ThaiVisa, the Forum and website will carry news and content from Hua Hin and Cha-Am Today. Being the oldest English licensed newspapers in this region, covering news from Petchaburi to Ban Saphan, with a combined readership of 16,000 + through our print and on line portals www.huahintoday.com and www. huahintoday.net, Hua Hin and Chaam Today was the selected choice for ThaiVisa.

With sales offices in Hua Hin and Cha-Am and soon to be opened in Kao Takiab, the partnership between ThaiVisa and Hua Hin and Cha-Am Today made a lot of sense.

Here are some of the important information about ThaiVisa, Thai Visa is very well known worldwide, being the biggest website in the world covering topics about Thailand, with more than 70,000 unique visitors per day and a record Continued on Page...3

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Dear Readers,

We have many big news items for us in Hua Hin Today as from 1st of November we are moving our current offices in Naresdamri to Kao Takiap to make space for our expanding businesses (Property, Newspaper and Trading) and to make space for our new media partners ThaiVisa. Read more about this new partnership in this issue.

The new office of Hua Hin Today in Kao Takiap is at 119/4 .

Nongkae opposite Cicada Market. It is spacious and it has more convenient parking access for parking for you our readers if you wish to visit with enquiries.

We also opening a dedicated Sales Office to present our projects Greenscape & Regal Residence at Hilton premises next to World News Cafe as we think this will be more convenient location for you to visit us. Of course we still retain our Property & Newspaper offices in Cha Am! As we are now in the month of Loy Kratong I can see love is in the air and I hope everyone can enjoy this happy day! Check our promotion listing inside for more ideas about this special day!

Best Regards, Eleni

A New Phase....Continued from Page1 of 32,000 users on line simultaneously. Over 7,500,000 pages are viewed each month on ThaiVisa. Virtually every Farang in the country checks out the threads now and again.

A group of 40 people spread over several continents in all the time zones administer the website. With a wealth of knowledge about the Land of Smiles, accumulated in some cases over more than a decade, the team describes their goal as building “the most complete information portal for the expatriate community in and outside of Thailand” ThaiVisa Classifieds are Thailand’s largest on line second hand market and 25% of their web traffic.

With the head office and administration in Bangkok and offices in Hong Kong, ThaiVisa is now expanding their office network to Hua Hin and Cha-Am through the new partnership with Hua Hin Today and Cha-Am. ThaiVisa recently launched a property website and will start a country wide Golf website from the 1st of November 2013.

ThaiVisa is a powerful marketing platform and one of Thailand’s leading generators of e-commerce relating to hotel bookings, travel and local business and investment opportunities, being a Premium Partner with Google Inc. ThaiVisa has many other media partnerships and news feeds from sources including The Nation, Agence France-Presse (AFP), MCOT, Phuket Gazette, The Phuket News, Chiang mai Mail, Pattaya One, Pattaya Mail, Pattaya 103FM, NNT, Coconuts Bangkok, Scand Asia, Irrawaddy, BNO News etc..

This new partnership with Hua Hin and Cha-Am Today will take the readership to a complete new level, creating opportunities for the local and regional businesses to advertise and reach for a far bigger consumer base. Both companies believe that by combining the strengths of both businesses, we can create a fantastic exposure for new and existing customers. Hua Hin and Cha-Am Today newspapers, the combined force of our readers and internet followers and the ThaiVisa subscribers will now have a reach of

over 400,000 monthly viewers.

We welcome the many benefits available to the community with this exciting development. The partnership offers daily access for the thousands of ThaiVisa website visitors both in Thailand and across the globe to understand more about Thailand and this region in a very user friendly and convenient package.

Some Comments From HUA HIN & CHA-AM TODAY Owner; George Mastronikolis “In the past Hua Hin Today was really a part time enterprise and almost a hobby. I never really had the people in management to take it to this new level. Customer loyalty and other commitments have always been a priority and it is important to deliver what is offered.

With my daughter in the management chair, her commitment to perfection and a completely new team, it was time to open new doors. All our new partners are well established companies both here and in China and Hong Kong. Previously it was not possible to start these ventures when I was unsure that I could deliver my obligations.

We think of this venture with ThaiVisa as part of a new era for Hua Hin & Cha-Am Today. The burgeoning opportunities now available to our customers and readers alike will give our region a higher and broader exposure for the benefit of all.”

Some comments From THAIVISA Marketing Director; Barry Main “We are very excited about this venture, says Barry Main, Marketing Director of Thaivisa. This extends the userbase for us, and we see synergy effects and marketing possibilities working with a Hua Hin news organisation to provide an English language internet community forum.

With this growth in the user base we hope to increase the variety of content and reach a wider section of the foreign and Thai community,” says Barry Main.

“We are happy to be working with Hua Hin Today and the ThaiVisa Hua Hin Forum. It’s a newspaper with a long history of credibility and substance, and Hua Hin Today has an extremely strong presence in the major search engines, particularly Google. Working together has already resulted in an increase in traffic, a trend which we expect to continue,” “We’ve brought a Hua Hin news icon into our pages, and the opportunities for continuing development and expansion of the partnership into other areas are looking pretty good,” he added.

www.thaivisa.com/forum www.huahintoday.com

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HUA HIN ON NOK AIR RADAR

ok Air will offer flights from Don Mueng Airport (Bangkok) starting on 15th November in a latest bid to raise its domestic feeder route footprint.

The budget airline will be the first carrier in many years to offer a scheduled service to Hua Hin as a popular holiday destination for both Thai and foreign visitors.

Nok Air executives said the route will be served by a Saab 340B turboprop aircraft with 34 seats chartered from Siam General Aviation Co. through its Nok Air affiliate.

It will offer a service on three days each week, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, departing from Don Mueng at 7.15 PM and returning from Hua Hin at 8.10 PM. This may be increased according to demand.

Hu Hin is the latest feeder route in Nok Air’s strategic plan to tap the potential of smaller cities not served by larger aircraft.

Nok Air’s executives said a 30 minute flight will provide an alternative to road transport which takes up to three hours.

To stimulate demand for the new route Nok Air is offering a promotional all inclusive one way fare starting from 1,299 THB. Vintage & Classic Cars ... Continued from Page 1

their accommodations or their seats by contacting Public Relations Department, Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin. Tel: 0 3251 2021-38 or email: proffice@ chr.co.th

Special Promotions and Scholarships please contact: 090-198-5799

Mr. Kwanchai Praphatphong, President of the Vintage Car Club of Thailand, Mr. Christoph Leonard, General Manager of Amari Hua Hin, Mr. Montree Chuphu, Deputy Mayor of Hua Hin Municipality and Mr. Suriyan Sorin, Assistant Director of TAT-Prachuab Khiri Khan Office recently organised a press conference to announce the “11th Hua Hin Vintage Car Parade 2013”. The concept of this Event is entitled “We Left Our Hearts in Hua Hin”. The press conference was hosted by Mr. Pierre Andre Pelletire, General Manager of Amari Watergate Bangkok.

This Event is being held between 13th and 15th December. More informstion about this event will be posted in our December edition!

Skål Hua Hin/Cha-am meeting November Meeting A Guest Speaker from Agoda

The next Skål Hua Hin/Cha-am meeting will take place on Friday, November the 15th. Agoda, the online service of for accommodation will present its facts and views about Hua Hin; a priceless opportunity for the hospitality industry in Hua Hin and Cha-Am.

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City News

Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

THE ROTARY CLUB OF HUA HIN 2013 ANNUAL CHARITY BALL

he “Ratree Rotary Ball 2013” is the annual Charity Event of the Hua Hin Rotary Club.

This will be at the Queen Sirikit Memorial Park on the evening of 22nd November 2013. A highlight will be music on stage performed by Four Singles, a famous band, well known from the past to present times. The band will perform both Thai and international music for the guests. Rotary Club members and guests can enjoy classical Thai and ballroom dances.

The Rotary Club Chairperson Ms. Wannaporn Pinjinda and Advisory Board’s Members Mr. Suwit Rienrungreung and Mr. Patiphan Maneethong have advised that tickets for this event are available at the Hua Hin Shopping Mall, Deerek Food Centre and the the Honda Showrooms.

A single ticket is 2,400 Baht and includes a table service dinner for groups of 8 persons. There are only 300 tickets on sale.

Ms. Wannaporn added that the charity night of this year would be the biggest since she was elected Chairperson in 2013. She would like to wish all Members happiness for the New Year.

She commented that “in the 26 years since the establishment of the Club, we have seen a lot of progress with great social contributions, projects and policies from both Rotary Clubs in Thailand and international bodies. Projects of the Hua Hin Rotary Club have included the construction of new buildings, new waiting areas for taxis and public transport, building dams, reforestation, encouraging students to join an environmental campaign on mangrove forest preservation, giving local people of Hua Hin professional training, sending Thai students overseas to stay with foreign families and giving scholarships to Thai students. All of those projects rely on the Club’s budget and

other supporters, particularly the Bunrawd Brewery Ms. Wannaporn also commented on UNICEF Public Company Limited and public organisations in America being concerned about the disabled in Hua Hin.” in Thailand. They have given the Rotary Club of District 3330 some wheelchairs and the Rotary All proceeds from the ticket sales will be used for Club of Hua Hin has received 35 of them. The future campaigns, programs and activities for local disabled or their relatives living in Hua Hin can schools, communities and other sectors in need. contact the the Club to request a free wheelchair.

Champagne and Oyster Cocktail Ladies from Chicky Net Hua Hin Dine in Style at Hotel de la Paix Reception At The Putaracsan

hicky Net Hua Hin members recently enjoyed a special dining experience at Motion Restaurant, C Hotel de la Paix, Cha Am. After a welcome cocktail in the hotel’s Red Bar, the ladies were seated for a four course meal, specially created by Executive Chef David Heidermann, which included: mussels in

white wine or carribean samosa to start, and poached salmon with horseradish and beetroot risotto or chicken caprese for main course. The food was complemented by a glass of Long Neck Chardonnay, Long Neck Sauvignon Blanc or Cabernet Sauvignon with each course.

utahracsa Hua Hin hosted a Champagne and Oyster cocktail reception on the 5th October at the P Oceanside Beach Club and Restaurant to kick off their “luxury October” promotion with Delamotte Champagne from Aroy Italy and imported Oysters. Music for this Event was provided by their resident DJ who performs every weekend.

The team at Putahracsa is now preparing their festive season culminating in the New Year’s Eve Gala with a ‘Roaring Twenties” theme. For more information, please contact 032-531-470

13thof December: Swedish Lucia celebration at Dusit Thani

About Chicky Net Chicky Net is the online social network for women who live in Thailand or who are visiting for a specific period of time. The website offers an exiting and fun way to meet other ladies and to best of all make new friends with whom to share their Thailand experiences.

The network has sub-networks all over Thailand, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin and Phuket.

Here women can interact with each other, meet at events and even join specialist groups that suit their own interests. Women not living in these areas are also welcome to join. Joining the network is free; all that is required is a quick registration so others know a bit about you and your interests.

Please visit them at www.chickynet.com, For further information email: info@chickynet.com

TAT AWARD FOR OUSTANDING PERFORMANCE Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin

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he Swedish Association in Hua Hin, Sanuk – Svenska skolan (Swedish School) Thailand and Dusit Thani Hua Hin are arranging on 13th December a traditional celebration of Sankta (Saint) Lucia Day. It is a special festivity for the local Swedish community in Hua Hin, connecting to a long tradition during the darkest winter month back in the Nordic homeland. The celebration is of course open to all nationalities to participate !

Dusit Thani Hua Hin is becoming a special place for the Swedes in Hua Hin, as the rather newly established Swedish Consulate is located there.

Last year, the Lucia celebration was also held there, for the first time.

Background

St. Lucia’s Day, on the 13th of December, is celebrated most commonly in Italy and in Scandinavia, with each emphasizing a different aspect of the story. In traditional celebrations, St. Lucia comes as a young woman with lights and sweets. It is one of the very few saint days observed in Scandinavia. In some forms, a procession is headed by one girl wearing a crown of candles (or lights), while others in the procession hold only a single candle each.

Although no sources for her life-story exist other than in holy stories, very similar to other female martyrs of that time, St. Lucia is believed to have been a Sicilian young woman who suffered a sad death in Syracuse, Sicily, around AD 304.

On 13th December, in each Swedish community, a young girl will be selected as Saint Lucia. She dresses in a long white gown with a red ribbon tied at the waist, wearing a crown of fresh greens and

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he Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin has received an Award candles on her head. In a procession, she enters a dimmed room with appropriately attired boys and for an Outstanding Performance for Resort Hotel Tourism Accommodation (80 girls, to the harmonious chords of a Lucia song.

Rooms and Over) in the Western Region.

Alongside Midsummer, the Lucia celebrations Initiated by the Tourism Authority of represent one of the foremost cultural traditions Thailand (TAT) in 1996, The Thailand in Sweden, with their clear reference to life in the Tourism Awards is one of the Thailand’s peasant communities of old times: darkness highest accolades in Travel and Tourism and light, cold and warmth. Her feast originally industry.

This is an assurance of coincided with the Winter Solstice, the shortest outstanding quality and reliability of day of the year before calendar reforms, so her tourism products and services. “We are feastday has become a festival of light. proud to receive this prestigious sixth award in twelve years and we continuously strive to strengthen our resort to deliver the individual service Text of a Lucia song: that as part of Thailand’s genuine hospitality, and will remain the excellent standard of management and service which in turn, has earned us a strong position as one of the leading hotels of the world”, Jacques The night treads heavily Mury said. around yards and dwellings

In places unreached by sun, the shadows brood Into our dark house she comes, bearing lighted candles, Saint Lucia, Saint Lucia.

MARIA SHARAPOVA HEADING FOR HUA HIN

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orld number three Maria Sharapova of Russia is scheduled to compete at an exhibition match in Hua Hin, Thailand in December. The four-time Grand Slam champion has already skipped the rest of the reason due to continuing rehabilitation of her right shoulder injury.

The Russian superstar has already withdrawn her participation at the season-ending WTA Championships where she finished runner-up a year ago. The defending champion of the elite eight-woman event is Serena Williams.

“I will start my off-season preparations early and use my exhibition matches in December in Bogota, Mexico City and Thailand to get some matches going,” Sharapova announced via her official website.

She was sighted last in Spain and she’s been updating her fans on what she’s been doing lately via her official Facebook page and Twitter.

Sharapova participated in the Thailand event in Sharapova has been travelling the past few weeks. 2010 where she defeated Venus Williams.

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

TRADITIONAL LONG BOAT RACING KING’S CUP 2013

25th and 26th September 2013 at the Hua Hin, Khao Tao Reservoir

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r. Weera Sriwattanatrakul, Provincial Governor opened this Annual Event which was organised in cooperation with the Hua Hin Municipality, Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul the Mayor of Hua Hin Hua Hin and the Chief Executive Commander of the Provincial Police Region.

A fleet of five ceremonial boats provided a colourful welcoming feature and ‘escort’ for the racing boats. These boats show some of the cultural heritage of the Event. Crews represented most of the Provinces of Thailand. It is well known that water and Thai people are inseparable and long tail boat racing is embedded in Thai traditions. It also depicts the way of life of Thai rural community This is the 6th Annual event and on the final day located next to rivers.

(26th September) many spectators including tourists lined the shores of the reservoir to cheer The Long Boats have crews which vary from on the competitors. From the official program the 55 paddlers to 30, 23, 7 or 2 rowers. The two boats are called ‘Traditional Long Boats’ however person crew event was a novelty event with the they may also be known as ‘Long Tail Boats’. The forward paddler being ‘deaf’ and the rear paddler main trophy is the ‘King’s Cup’ for crews of 55 is ‘blind’. Hard to get the direction right with that paddlers. combination!

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin

This is the only hotel in Thailand to win the Thailand Energy Awards 2013, which was held on 18 September 2013 at the Government House Building in Bangkok. This year, a total of 263 projects entered the competition, and 72 were selected for the award. Jacques Mury, General Manager, expressed appreciation for the resort’s Green committee which put it’s efforts into making this great achievement. They will continue their commitments as a sustainability of green resort that has been awarded the Silver Certificate by Earth-Check. They are proud to receive these recognitions and will continue doing their best to cherish their resorts’ green concept and environmental initiatives for the excellent energy management.

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Putahracsa Staff Party 2013

The annual Team Member party was a fun filled evening with many activities and grand prizes sponsored by their owner, management and valued partners. Putahracsa wanted to say “thank you” and appreciation to all their team members for their hard work and dedication throughout the year.

HILTON HUA HIN – GLOBAL WEEK OF SERVICE

n celebration of Hilton Worldwide’s second annual Global Week of Service, October 6 – 12, more than 100 volunteers from Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa lead by Michael Schmitt, General Manager and team members were involved in a School Backyard Garden Project at the Baan Kok Chang Pattana School. This provided an opportunity for students to improve their selfsufficiency by growing organic vegetables to help improve the diet of local children.

Baan Kok Chang Pattana is a primary school, located at Tambol Nong Plub Amphur Hua Hin, about 45 km away from the hotel. There are 80 students from nursery to primary classes. Most of students are from poor agricultural and farmer families.

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Hua Hin to Host Red-Whiskered Bulbul Contest

n 3rd October 2013, the Mayor of Hua Hin Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul, with the Chairman of the Association for Red-whiskered Bulbul Breeders in Thailand Mr. Suithep Bunyawatwanit, the Chairman of an Association for Red-whiskered Bulbul Breeders in Western Thailand Mr. Sumet Suphithip and a member of Hua Hin Municipal Council Mr. Cheewin Phiewon, attended a press conference to describe the red-whiskered bulbul contest in Hua Hin. The contest will take place from 2nd to 3rd November 2013 at the field of Somdet Phra Suriyothai Military Base. Winners will be awarded Royal Trophies of Their Majesties the King and Queen. Red-whiskered bulbuls are

much favoured among Thais throughout the country. They are highly prized and kept as pets in many families. Birds can fetch as much as 300,000 baht. The best ones have to be carefully protected against bird thieves. This can pose a problem because the red-whiskered bulbul (nok krong hua juck) enjoys being out in the sunshine.

experts who take notes and award points. Birds patch and thin black moustachial line. The tail is are placed in categories and eventually winners long and brown with white terminal feather tips, emerge. but the vent area is red.

The Hua Hin contest has two main rules: internationally recognised rules and 4-round based rules in two main categories: the international and the golden voice ones. For Red-whiskered bulbul contests, designed to the golden voice category, 140 trophies will be find the bird with the best voice, are organised awarded to the winners. throughout the country, including in Bangkok.

A Brief description Each week, there are no less than 5 contests.

The Red-whiskered Bulbul is about 20 A good singing bird can sing smoothly and centimetres (7.9 in) in length. It has brown uppermelodiously. The length of the song is not a parts and whitish underparts with buff flanks and consideration. a dark spur running onto the breast at shoulder Contests are judged by experienced bird-song level. It has a tall pointed black crest, red face

The loud and evocative call is a sharp kink-a-joo (also transcribed as pettigrew or kick-pettigrew or pleased to meet you) and the song is a scolding chatter. It is more often heard than seen, but will often perch conspicuously especially in the mornings when they call from the tops of trees. The life span is about 11 years.

An unmissable event for bird lovers and bird watchers, the Hua Hin red-whiskered bulbul contest welcomes both Thai and foreign participants and attendants. For more information, please contact 085 7024988.

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

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asa Mia has been around for over 5 years, delighting customers with authentic Italian food and award winning Pizzas.

Pizza Casa Mia now proudly announces the introduction of the new Executive Chef, Mr. Pasquale Parisi, bringing their kitchen to a new level. Open from 3PM – 10 PM every day. 1/146 Nongplub Road (opposite Hua Hin school). Reservations, Home delivery and Enquiries call: 032 535 332. Website : www.casa-mia.asia. Facebook : https:// www.facebook.com/PizzaCasaMia

t’s our great pleasure to announce that a new reality has emerged on the furniture market in Hua Hin. Homeless furniture is no ordinary thing. Let us explain why:…….

cheap to expensive high end design items.

All the products displayed are AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY as they keep own stock of each product available at all times.

The Hansson family has a deeply rooted furniture culture for 2 generations. Having worked for decades with international furniture companies such as IKEA, CALLIGARIS, B&B Italia and DEDON managing purchasing and product development. Once they had the chance to open their own retail shop they jumped at the opportunity.

They have used their vast network around Asia for the pleasure and benefit of their customers.

Please visit their newly opened showroom and let them show you what makes Homeless furniture such an interesting alternative.

Casa Mia Homeless furniture focuses mainly on living room and outdoor furniture, directly imported from various Asian countries. All their suppliers have collaborated with them for many years during their sourcing adventures.

They source and import a selected range of furniture which satisfies any budget, from the extremely

36/139 Nongplub road ( Opposite Big C Market ) Tel: 032 511 861 Website : www. homeless-furniture.asia

WEATHER MONTHLY AVERAGES

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FOR NOVEMBER 2013

he information presented below gives detailed historical monthly average weather conditions along with exceptional weather occurrences. To maintain relevance to current weather trends the displayed information has been calculated using data collected over the past two decades.

The climate profile is taken from closest available data source to Hua Hin.

Temperature Throughout the month of November daytime temperatures will generally reach highs of around 30°C that’s about 86°F. At night the average minimum temperature drops down to around 24°C, that’s 74°F.

In recent times the highest recorded temperature in November has been 38°C that’s 100°F, with the lowest recorded temperature 16°C, about 61°F.

Relative Humidity The average daily relative humidity for November is around 71%.

Precipitation The average monthly amount of precipitation

has been recorded at around 135 mm, that’s 5 inches.

Throughout the month you can expect to see rain or drizzle falling on 4 days of the month.

Estimated Hours of Sunshine per Day We calculate

sunshine hours per day using our past forecast data. For November expect the sun to shine for an average of 8 hours per day. This represents the average number of hours in the daytime that the sun is visible and not obscured by cloud e.g. the average number of hours the sun is actually out and shining. Note we calculate hours of sunshine per day using our past forecast data, not observation data, thus it is an estimate and not actual.

Wind The average daily wind speed in November has been around 5 km/h, that’s the equivalent to about 3 mph, or 3 knots. In recent years the maximum sustained wind speed has reached 28 km/h, that’s the equivalent of around 17 mph, or 15 knots.

Swimming and Water Temperature The temperature

of water an individual will feel comfortable in is very much personal preference. What feels unbearably cold to one person for a swim might be fine for another. We have created our own Swimming Water Temperature Index offering a guide to water temperature and comfort levels for swimming; In November, for the nearest coastal location, the temperature of the sea averages around 29°C, that’s 84° Fahrenheit. Our index indicates for swimming in this is considered very warm and would be enjoyed by all. With this temperature you can stay active in the water for extended periods of time without feeling uncomfortable.

WHAT THE KIDS THINK

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ur winner for November is from Class 3/6 of the Salesian School in Hua Hin. Rasnicha Manmai is nicknamed ‘Donut’ and her essay on ’My Hobby’, is a very sweet piece of Work!

We hope that your singing hobby can become something even more than a hobby, “Never say never”.

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Dinner at la Grappa

Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

FINE DINING IN A COZY ATMOSPHERE!

e were invited by Mr. Andreas Bonifacio were accompanied with a fine wine “Le Cupole” to try his signature dishes, he is the Trinoro, Rosso Toscana. owner and the chef of La Grappa.

The first main course was “spagetti with rock Thursday evening; the restaurant was full of lobster, light cherry tomato and basil”. It was people who love good Italian food. The weather fantastic. The spaghetti was cooked al dente was great and we preferred to stay outside. The and it was so flavoursome. It was the second smiling waitress greeted us with a glass of cool time I have had this dish and I enjoyed it the Prosecco. Before Mr. Andreas came I had a same as the last time; perfect. look at the menu. In the menu you can find most The second main course was “veal shank of the popular traditional Italian dishes. I didn’t ossobuco with safran risotto”. This dish is hard know what to order so we asked Andreas to to find to on menues in Thailand. It’s a Milan suggest what to have. It’s great to always ask style recipe slowly cooked for 24 hours and it’s the the chef for suggestions. served with beautiful safran risotto. The meat We started with a selection of antipasti which melted in your mouth and you didn’t even need a knife to cut it. It was amazinly soft and tasteful. You could taste all the different spices and together with the safran risotto.

The third main course was “fillet snow fish panfried and served on a bed of green asparagus and reduction of lobster sauce”. This is my favorite.

The fish was cooked perfectly; soft and tasty. The lobster sauce and asparagus gave a nice tone to the dish.

Even if you are full you always have space for the dessert. When we were asked if we wanted to try included parma ham, grilled Italian sausage, “meringue Italian style with fresh strawberry and buratta mozzarella, octopus salad and chantilly cream” could we say no? We both traditional eggplant “Parmiggiana” served with looked at each other and said at the same time tomato sauce and fresh basil. Everything was “yes”! We made the right decision, the dessert delicious. The octopus, which I know is difficult was fantastic. The meringue was crunchy as it to cook, was amazing. The eggplant has an should be and if you tried to have one bite with unique taste and I always like the combination of the strawberry and the cream together; wow! of tomato sauce and basil. All the ingredients were fresh and imported from Italy. The antipasti Mr. Andreas asked us how we enjoyed the food,

but it was easy to see as we had returned the plates almost empty. We were happy and full; and it showed in our eyes.

La Grappa is an authentic Italian Restaurant, with good food, good ingredients and a list of good wine from Mondo Vino. We had a great time! Choose la Grappa for your special days, when you want to reward yourself or to please your customers. You cannot go from La Grappa unhappy. Tel: 032 516 510

22/65 Naeb kaehat Road, Hua Hin Sub-district, Hua Hin District, Prachuabkhirikhan 77110

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

PROMOTING PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION FOR NURSES

Ms. Suwanna Anantakitpaisal, the Deputy Governor of Prachuab Khirikhan, Mr. Pornchai Thomkrachang, the District Chief of Hua Hin, and Dr. Rungrot Sileaungsawas, the Chairman of Cha-Am/ Hua Hin Tourism Business Association, chaired a ceremony to present certificates to nursing students of Anantarak Nursing School. Led by the Manager of the school Ms. Pornrawee Sileaungsawas, 59 students who completed the nursing courses received certificates on 13th October 2013. Congratsa!

SUPPORT FOR HUA HIN RED CROSS

The advisor to Hua Hin’s mayor Mr. Chumphol Choksuchart, the chairperson of the Lions Club Hua Hin Mr. Somchai Krajaejerm and the Club’s committee members donated 20,000 Baht cash to Hua Hin Red Cross and the Dok Lam Duan Club for the seniors in Hua Hin. This donation will be used for activities of both organizations. Presentation of the donation was also attended by the advisor of the Office of Royal Affairs of Thailand Khun Thanom Praisri.

NEW DIRECTOR FOOD AND BEVERAGE @DUSIT THANI HUA HIN

Hot on the heels of new Executive Chef, Horst Kocsisek, comes new Director of Food & Beverage, Andreas Herzig, who arrives at the Dusit Thani Hua Hin from a similar role at Siam Kempinski Bangkok.

Andi, as he is known, is a 35-year-old Bavarian graduate of César Ritz Colleges Switzerland. His CV also includes managerial assignments at Munich institution Café Luitpold; Kempinski properties in Italy, Czech Republic, Spain and Bulgaria; a 3-year stint as Director of Outlets and Director of Banquet at the St Regis Aspen Resort, USA and the Schloss Elmau Luxury Spa & Cultural Hideaway near the Austrian border.

Being located in Thailand does present challenges in pursuing keen interests in skiing and lacrosse for Andi, who excels in both sports and has represented Germany in the latter.

V VILLAS HUA HIN WELCOMES CELEBRITY OFF-PONGSAK AND DJ BOOKKO-EFM

V Villas Hua Hin, led by Resident Manager Mr. Chainarong Pipitweeranund, recently welcomed the popular singer from Thai pop band AF 1, Mr. Off Pongsak along with well-known EFM DJ, DJ Bookko. Their visit was for a Thai Channel 7 TV filming which took place at the hotel’s luxurious Presidential Beachfront Pool Villa.

V VILLAS HUA HIN WELCOMES CELEBRITY CHRIS HWANG

V Villas Hua Hin, Resident Manager Mr. Chainarong Pipitweeranund) recently gave a warm welcome to Ms. Chris Hwang, Thai celebrity and model, during her visit for a fashion shoot of TOUCH Magazine. This took place in the hotel’s luxurious Presidential Beachfront Pool Villa.

V Villas Hua Hin recently received the Thailand Boutique Award in the luxury seaside class for its architecture and design. The resort was also included in the Luxe List in DestinAsian magazine, a leading travel and lifestyle publication in the Asia-Pacific region. In addition it was voted Best Luxury Hotel - Anywhere Travel Award by readers of Anywhere magazine, one of Thailand’s top lifestyle and travel magazines.

Villazzo Restaurant recently also received the “Thailand’s Best Restaurant 2012 & 2013” award from Thailand Tatler’s Best Restaurant Guide.

Talk to Andi and you’ll immediately get a feel for how close skiing is to his heart, not surprising when considering where he was born, has studied and worked. Taking up the sport at a young age, he has become a more than competent downhill skier.

Travelling off the beaten track is another passion, which Andi likes to combine with his wining and dining interests.

Look out for amiable Andi at Dusit Thani Hua Hin as he looks to add his magical ingredients and move their wining and dining options to the next level in the process.

NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF AND ROOMS DIVISION MANAGER @ SHERATON HUA HIN RESORT & PRANBURI VILLAS Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Pranburi Villas has announced two new appointments to its management team; Mathias Olsson, as Executive Chef, covering their properties in Hua Hin and Pranburi, and Jomkwan Jailak (Khun Koy), as Rooms Division Manager, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa. Jomkwan is already a member of the Starwood Hotels family, having previously worked as the Front Office Manager at the Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa, Vietnam and Le Meridien Khao Lak, Thailand. She will bring valuable experience to our Rooms Team.

Mathias, originally from Sweden, has an outstanding culinary background spanning three continents, including positions in five star hotels in Ghana, Dubai, Singapore and Switzerland. Prior to joining Sheraton Hua Hin Resort and Pranburi Villas, he led the culinary department preopening team at Kempinski Gold Coast City, Accra, Ghana.

According to Chef Mathias, he couldn’t be happier in his new role; “Cooking is my passion, I guess one could say that cooking is in my blood. I can’t think of anything else that I would rather do than cook. I enjoy learning and creating new recipes with new and different foods from around the world, using quality ingredients and styles to meet our customers taste”.

NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGER @THE PUTAHRACSA HUA HIN The Putahracsa would like to introduce their newest employee, Khun Tanu Panthong (Chef Nu) joining the Resort staff as the Executive Chef. He previously worked at Maikhao Dream Villa Resort & Spa Phuket.

Mr. Natchakit Singsom (Tan) is now the Housekeeping Manager, he previously worked at Centara Koh Chang Resort.

Welcome to Chef Nu and Khun Tan to the Putahracsa’s family.

EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP The Chief Judge of the Hua Hin Court, Mr. Santi Chukitsappaisarn granted education scholarships to children of police officers in Hua Hin on the occasion of the National Day of Police of Thailand on 13th October.

NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF @ HYATT REGENCY HUA HIN

Sammy Carolus, general manager of Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, has appointed Mr. Christoph Trocker as executive chef of the resort. An Austrian national, Chef Christoph has a strong culinary background with over 19 years of professional experience. A graduate from the College of Hotel Management in Austria, Chef Christoph began his career in 1994 and has enjoyed the opportunity to work with various hotels in Switzerland, Austria and Germany. After gaining years of experience in Europe, Chef Christoph decided to explore other part of the world to build the diversity of his culinary skills. In 2004 he moved from Austria to Dubai and worked at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, where he was appointed chef de cuisine.

Since Chef Christoph is keen to explore new experiences, in 2009 he relocated to China and welcomed the new challenge and of a new culture. It was his first time working with Hyatt.

He joined the pre-opening team of Grand Hyatt Shenzhen as chef de cuisine and was responsible for the opening of Belle-Vue, the classic European restaurant. His dedication and outstanding performance over two years at Grand Hyatt Shenzhen was recognised, and he was then promoted to executive sous chef at Hyatt on the Bund in Shanghai in October 2011, where he worked prior to his latest promotion.

In his newly appointed position, Chef Christoph oversees Hyatt Regency Hua Hin’s four restaurants and bars, as well as the catering for the hotel’s event facilities for up to 400 people, and off-site events.

Commenting on his appointment as executive chef of Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, Chef Christoph said, “I am happy to work and live in Hua Hin, as this will give me an opportunity to learn more about Thai culture and people who are naturally friendly and service minded. This is important aspect for us to consistently to deliver authentic hospitality to our guests. I will endeavour to help enhance the quality of food at Hyatt Regency Hua Hin to make a difference to the dining experience of our guests.”

Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

TRAVELLING THE SCENIC ROUTE NORTH FROM CHA-AM

‘Get you motor runnin’ Head out on the highway Lookin’ for adventure And whatever comes our way’ (Steppin’ Wolf; 1968)

the state of the world. As a place of peaceful relaxation, you won’t find any better. If you head south along the narrow tree lined road you’ll see some beautiful beach frontage houses for a kilometre or so. Many seemed unoccupied, perhaps only used as a holiday home. There is at least one ocean frontage block for sale if you are looking to build your own ‘slice of heaven’ on o you have a favourite music to play in the a wide, clean sandy beach. car on a long drive? For me it’s Pink Floyd (‘Momentary Lapse of Reason’) but for others it may be more classical or even Barry Manilow?

On our road trip, the ‘navigator’ was in charge of the music. Just to make sure it would be a calm and relaxing day she chose – AC/DC (‘Highway to Hell’? - NOT) !

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Our trip was to explore the scenic route which heads North from Cha-Am, following the coastline for most of the way then linking with the main Bangkok Highway about 100 KM North of Cha-Am. This route is a great day trip slowly meandering along the coastal plains and Thirty Five Kilometres On exploring a variety of ‘side trips’. The return can Out next stop was just before Chao Samran then then be made via the main highway at a Beach, as we turned towards the ocean before quicker pace. the traffic lights where most will turn to visit this We were fortunate to have the use of a Toyota location. There’s a great little coffee shop (Bryde’s test car for the journey. Our thanks to the Khun Coffee) and restaurant (Khuakhunya Restaurant) Chackrit Vesvanut, the Managing Director behind the Chao Samran Beach Resort. The of Toyota Muang Petch, for the use of this smell of fresh baked cookies at the coffee shop fantastic car. Our test vehicle was the latest was hard to resist as an accompaniment to my model Toyota Camry Full Hybrid but more Minty Pineapple Spritzer. about that later. You’ll find this Toyota dealer in Alternatively stay on the main road then turn Cha-Am on Petchakasim Road just north of the right at the traffic lights (a very unusual sight). rail line flyover on the left.

At the end the road it’s worth having a wander around another sandy beach though with shady Getting Started trees and benches to sit. There is a bandstand/ Travel towards the beach from the traffic lights on pagoda structure and a tree that has been long Petchakasim Road in the centre of Cha-Am City. deceased painted in gold. This tree was alive Take the first turn left at the T junction after about until struck by lightning several years ago then 500 metres. That’s it, you are now on the on the gold when it was apparent that it had died, way; past the hospital then follow the distinctive perhaps to remind the God’s that lightning signs showing the scenic route logo for the rest should never strike the same place more than of the way. After crossing the bridge over the once. inlet you will near to veer right where there are signs steering you towards Puktien Beach as The stones islands parallel to the coast line where put there about 4/5 years ago to prevent well as the frequent scenic route signs. the sand being lost on the beach. This innovation Along The Way has been a great success and has re-established Here’s our description about what you expect a previously eroded sandy shoreline. to find along the way. Of course the distances provided will vary somewhat depending on how many ‘side trips’ you chose to make.

After Twelve to Seventeen Kilometres We previously described two of Cha-Am’s attractions along this road which can be seen on the Hua Hin Today facebook page along with the articles online in previous additions. These are the ‘Boat Temple’ and Puktien Beach. They are both well worth a visit as a smaller day out, but we didn’t stop this time.

However a road heading south from the beach front takes you past a number of accommodation options if you are considering an overnight (or longer) stay. Amongst those on offer on this stretch are resorts with names such as Fisherman’s, Sea Sky, 91 Hotel and Restaurant, Village and many more. One resort has wooden boat shaped bungalows but our favourite was the Paradise Resort.

of the best.

The Final Stretch

Keep heading towards the town of Ban Laem and turn right at the traffic lights. After about 90 kilometres from Cha-Am you will finish this

Where else in the world would you have the opportunity to stay overnight in a converted aircraft? Perhaps it’s a Douglas DC 3 (produced in the 1930/40’s) and was transported from Bangkok by the enterprising Thai owner (Khun Visit). It now provides two ‘apartments’ inside as a unique opportunity to almost join the ‘mile high club’, but only at ground level! Of course the resort also offers more conventional accommodation with many bungalows situated alongside shaded garden lanes leading towards the sandy beach. A swimming pool almost on stage of the trip 10 or so kilometres later at the intersection with the Bangkok highway. We the beach provides another cooling option. stopped just short of the intersection at a Thai This resort is less than two years old with Thai restaurant for some Khao Pat Kung before management provided by former Bangkok returning back to base. residents. However with experience of over 30 years managing cafeterias on the US Harvard The return journey is about an hour’s drive, University campus, there is no language veering left as the signs indicate, through Petchaburi City, Tha Yang then Cha-Am. It is problems and their hospitality is undoubted. a similar return distance to the more scenic route Forty Kilometres From Cha-Am but at the legal 100 KPH and without side trips, a much quicker way home. This is round trip of Heading towards Ban Lam you will be travelling close to 200 kilometres and a full day road trip. across open flat land where there are both prawn farms and salt production fields. The sandy beaches have now almost disappeared in favour of mangroves and marshy fields.

Turning towards the ocean at a sign for the Verano Beach Villa you will arrive at a beautiful beach alongside an inlet with some fishing boats safely moored. There was a suggestion that this inlet was destined to be a marina but there appears to be little happening to provide such a facility.

Heading back towards the main road there are two smaller roads heading south. The road further away from the coast leads you towards a temple with beautifully maintained gardens and many new monks (judging by the bright colours of their robes) sitting in contemplation. This road is solely as access to the temple grounds so We noticed a Thai gentleman just sitting on remember to be respectful if you slowly take this his motorbike gazing out to sea contemplating side trip.

About Our Test Car Toyota Camry Full Hybrid

Just before crossing a bridge over an inlet with many fishing boats is an area known as Lumpa Bia, famous for bird watching. You can park outside one of two small stores, either on the main road or on the south side of the inlet. If you walk further towards the ocean alongside the inlet for almost a kilometre, try to meet Mr Daeng a very popular guide when it comes to bird watching. He will take you on a small boat through the mangroves and to a sandy spit for an hour or so as a popular side trip.

My usual form of motorised transport is either a motorbike or an old and somewhat dilapidated manual car. My first car was a 1949 Austin A40 which probably explains a lot!

My current car doesn’t have keyless entry/go, dual-zone climate control, USB/iPod/Bluetooth connectivity, guidance systems, reversing cameras or any of the benefits that this test car had to offer. The gasoline/electric Camry is aimed squarely at those who want a ‘greener’ car than a regular Camry can deliver and Prius shoppers looking for something more powerful Unfortunately the many attractions already and more traditional. This is a very attractive visited didn’t allow us time to enjoy this vehicle in every sense of the word. opportunity although we now have Mr Daeng’s phone number to book a future trip and to take But if you really want an expert’s review of this model try: www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2012/.../ the time to explore more in this area. review-2012-toyota-camry.

Judging from the very complementary comments made by bird watchers from all The problems with moving from my old ‘bomb’ over the world in the ‘guest book’, including to this luxurious vehicle began with actually those from bird watching clubs or societies, Mr starting the engine. Just press the ‘go’ button Daeng’s reputation as guide is well deserved. and the steering wheel gently glides into position I’ve often wondered about Cha-Am’s bird and ignition lights glow. However you must watching locations, now we know of one remember to press down on the brake pedal Continued on page 47

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Volume 11 Issue 1 November 2013

HUA HIN & CHA-AM GOLF FESTIVAL FINALE The Champion of Champions – Imperial Lake View

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n a rain soaked Sunday the final Event of the Hua Hin & Cha-Am Golf Festival was held at the Imperial Lake View Golf Course on Sunday 6th October.

The weather conditions were unusual for Cha-Am with almost constant steady rain testing the competitors who qualified in earlier Events during the Golf Festival. Usually no weather problems for these month so a great time for visiting golfers to enjoy golfing on the Regions many fine golf courses.

The Champion of Champions day was the culmination of two months (August and September) of reduced Green Fees and competitions, an annual feature of the region’s golfing calendar.

An additional feature of this year’s Event was a luck draw for a brand new Honda Brios car.

The lucky winner was Miss Patarawadee Muen-aum who hails from Pranburi.

Another lucky winner with a cash prize of 100,000 THB was Mr.Somboon Morparn.

This feat was achieved on Hole Number 11 at the Sawang Golf Resort Course.

The overall winner was a lady, Ms.Manussa Ceemakorn, with a gross score of 73 playing off a handicap of 2.4.

Congratulations to all the competitors who battled through the conditions and to the organisers and sponsors of the Event.

More Results:

Flight A1 Flight A2 Flight A3 Flight B1 Flight B2 Flight B3

Flight C1 Flight C2 Flight C3 Ladies 1 Ladies 2 Seniors 1 Seniors 2

Mr.Chinakorn Ka-ungku Mr.Nikorn Klaprabjone Mr.Dhanadej Sookmuang Col.Noppasit Kongchinsart Mr.Poomsak Niamera Pol.Lt.Col.Yudhana Poengkijsuwan Mr.Rachata Kiewsudhi Mr.Varong Saengmuang Mr.Den Su-arsa Ms.Preenaphan Pumklai Ms.Ratkusuma Maj. Thongchai Narknaem Pol.Sen.Sgt.Maj.Songkram Roopsom

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

‘I’m singin’ golfin’ in the rain Just singin’ golfin’ in the rain What a glorious feelin’ I’m happy again!’

H Small towels will be useful for obvious reasons.

H Consider an extra shirt, there’s nothing wrong with changing if you become saturated.

H Wet weather gear (jacket/trousers) is not

frequently worn by golfers in Thailand. Perhaps that’s because it’s not so cold here. I would also Let’s be honest; it’s not really a ‘glorious feeling’ suggest this part of golfing equipment doesn’t at all, I’ve yet to meet a golfer who is happier really deliver what it promises, but that’s your to play in the wet rather than the dry. To choice. golfers, RAIN on golf day is a four letter word.

It complicates the game, means carrying extra H Think more about a change of clothing equipment and can even result in a round not (including footwear) for after the game. If you are the sort of golfer who usually showers after being completed – very frustrating! returning home, wet weather may change that.

However the reality is that sometime or another every golfer will need to cope with a rainy H Think about how you will protect the score day. In Thailand it’s usually less of a problem; card (a zip-lock plastic bag?). Marking, signing rain may appear as a short, sharp burst then and reviewing a wet card that is falling to bits is disappear and it’s typically not going to leave difficult. you freezing cold even if you are soaked.

On The Course It’s worthwhile thinking about wet weather golf f The golf course will play longer because it’s before this happens to you (again) and being soft with less carry. Taking a club higher than prepared. normal will allow for an easier swing and can compensate for the lost yardage. The good Before The Game news is that soggy fairways and greens are more H Check the weather forecast before you receptive. The fairways and greens become, in head off to the Golf Course. It’s very simple effect, wider and bigger, respectively, because to get a local forecast, including the likelihood your shots don’t bounce into trouble as much. of rain via the internet or even a phone app.

Here’s one website: www.wunderground.com/ f On a rainy day, the greens will be slow. Hit weather-forecast/TH/Hua_Hin.html‎. However your putts harder than you do when the sun is recognise that the weather in Thailand can be shining and remember that the ball won’t turn unpredictable and very localised. When in as much. doubt, be prepared. f In a bunker, the sand will be firmer; you H It may seem unnecessary to say, but the won’t have to swing as hard to get the ball out. umbrella really is a golfer’s best wet (and hot) f Try not to let the conditions affect your weather friend. If for some strange reason you normal routines, don’t rush. The best wet forget, most Golf Courses will be able to rent weather players always take their time and stay you one. patient.

H Consider your choice of footwear. Wet feet f Reduce the rain-induced challenges by really add to wet weather discomfort. wearing a baseball-style golf hat that helps to H Always have a rain cover for your bag. keep the rain out of your face.

Keeping your clubs dry, particularly the grips f Hang your small towel and spare gloves are important. from the inside ‘spokes’ of the umbrella so that H Extra gloves and caps will allow you to they stay dryer and are easily accessible. change them if needed. f Don’t drive a buggy across casual water or rain affected areas to avoid wheel ruts.

(Apologies to Gene Kelly!)

f Make sure all pitch marks are repaired as there will be more than usual.

f Consider your caddies. They are more likely to be more concerned about your comfort than their own. Help out every caddie more than usual, everyone’s comfort is important. Maybe a bigger tip; some players even take an extra umbrella just for the caddie.

f If there is a heavy shower take some shelter and ‘time out’; it may quickly pass by.

Wet Weather Rules of Golf

v A Local Rule may be made to allow

lies on very wet days (‘winter rules’). v Rule 25-1 deals with casual water, defined preferred Without such a Rule being made, preferred lies as an “accumulation of water that is not in a water hazard and is visible before or after the player takes his stance.” If your ball or stance is in visible water you are granted free relief by dropping the ball within one club-length of the nearest point of relief, no closer to the hole.

cannot be legally taken.

v Rule 14-2 states that a player must not make

a stroke while accepting physical assistance or protection from the elements, including by an umbrella held over the player or ball.

v Rule 25-2 allows lifting, cleaning and After The Game dropping the ball, without penalty, as near as b Remember to towel dry your grips and shafts possible to the spot, not closer to the hole (optional). These rules apply anywhere on the course (including the ‘rough’) except when the ball is in a water hazard or a lateral water hazard, on the teeing ground and the green of the hole being played.

completely after playing in the rain. Drying water will loosen the glue that holds the grips in place and will also remove the tackiness and elasticity from the grips. Rusted metal shafts are also not a good look!

Clean your shoes of mud and take v If the ball is in a bunker with casual water b advantage of the Golf Course ‘air gun’ to get you can drop by the same rule but must remain in the bunker. You can take a one stroke penalty and drop out of the bunker.

the drying process started for your shoes.

b Take a warm shower and change your

to avoid staying damp and risking v On the green, relief (placing the ball) is clothing colds or the ‘flu. also allowed if casual water intervenes on the player’s line of putt.

Unfortunately there will be days when conditions unplayable, especially when there v It must be a matter of virtual fact whether a become is lightning in the area. That’s frustrating, no ball is lost in casual water. In other words there options but to grin and bear it – the Golfing must be reasonable evidence otherwise the ball Gods have struck again! must be treated as a lost ball. golfer standing on a tee overlooking a v If the ball is not immediately recoverable A river sees a couple of fishermen and says to from this condition, another ball may be his partner, “Look at those two idiots fishing substituted. If the original ball is recoverable, it in the rain.” may be cleaned.

Coming to the Dusit Thani Hua Hin Win the toss and book first

@ The 19th Annual Hua Hin Cricket Sixes Tournament 5th–10th April 2014 A record twenty-one teams took part in the 18th edition of the annual Hua Hin Cricket Sixes, sponsored by Bangkok Post in 2012, this event and hotel where there are no strangers, just friends you have yet to meet.

Such was the camaraderie generated that many of those twenty-one teams have already reconfirmed their reappearance for 2014, leaving only a limited number of places available for the 19th Annual Hua Hin Cricket Sixes that will take place between Saturday, 5th April and Thursday, 10th April.

participating, early booking is seriously and sincerely recommended before December.

Entry fees are Baht 40,000 per squad of a maximum eight players, or Baht7,000 per individual who will be found a team. This rate includes the following: H Registration and Tournament Entry H Welcome Dinner at Dusit Thani Hua Hin H Farewell Dinner at Dusit Thani Hua Hin H 16 x Hua Hin Sixes Team Shirts per team

With the 2014 tournament being limited to a H 8 x Hua Hin Sixes Cap per team maximum 24 teams, if you are interested in H 1 x Souvenir Programme per player

Dusit Thani Hua Hin offers unbeatable rates to players and accompanying family members, friends or spectators during the tournament and for anyone wishing to extend their stay before or after the tournament. There are also entitlements to enjoy special food & beverage privileges throughout the tournament.

Please contact the hotel or, alternatively, tournament organizer Thanasak ‘Tom’ Karnasuta at thanasak.karnasuta@shell.com or thanasak. karnasuta@gmail.com . A dedicated tournament website is also being set up and we hope to be able to announce it has gone ‘live’ in the next issue of the Hua Hin Sun.

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HHSSY, THE FINNISH ASSOCIATION OF HUA HIN

he HHSSY was founded for Finnish people staying in Hua Hin or nearby regions such as Cha - Am in 2009. In the beginning the purpose of the Association was to help members´ stay and comfort in every day life and add to their knowledge of Thai culture.

The key interest point became The Library, where more than 1600 books are available for Members to borrow. It has been THE most popular spot ever since.

Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

TOUR DE THAILAND 2014

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ens of thousands of people each year take cycling holidays. It’s possible that like-minded individuals can take these cycling holidays with more in mind than just another bicycle ride in a foreign land. Imagine a premium quality cycling tour that is fully supported, environmentally friendly, and a meaningful adventure that will change the world one smile at a time. The Tour de Thailand is a tour with charity at its heart that provides a whole lot of customer satisfaction to make sure our riders enjoy their efforts each and every kilometre along the way.

Although the majority of members are Finns, there are also Thai, Swedish and British nationals.

Around November and December is the most

SKAL NEWS -October Monthly Speaker

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Khun George Somapa

hun George Somapa was speaking at the monthly Skål gathering that took place at Mondo Vino on Thursday the 17th of October.

George Somapa commented that “Hua Hin is unique in several aspects. All the golf courses in and around Hua Hin are beautifully located between the Tenasserim Mountains and the sea.

Greater Hua Hin offers excellent accommodation in various price classes and the seafood is excellent”, he explained.

“Not only the golf facilities themselves, but also the accommodation, entertainment and restaurants are very good. Location and facilities make Hua Hin unique.” “The golf courses themselves offer a wide variety, ranging from the PGA-standards courses like Black Mountain, Banyan and Springfield and the more the affordable ones like Sawang, Kaengkrachan and Milford. Possibly two more golf courses will be build in Pranburi and one close to Black Mountain.”

Riders can choose from the Eastern Seaboard, North-eastern, Northern, Central or Southern Regional rides. These rides are life-changing rides—not races—through Thailand’s rich and diverse culture with breathtaking scenery, compassionate riders and caring support staff.

The 2014 Tour is on between May and July. Strat planning early (and training!) so you can become a part of this great Event.

The big difference with the Tour de Thailand is that each participant raises a minimum of $1,000 US Dollars per section for Operation Smile, an organisation dedicated to providing free surgical treatment to children and young adults in developing countries who are suffering from facial deformities.

For more information contact the organising Communication with Members is via e-mail and The 10th Annual Tour de Thailand is throughout Company Tour de Asia Bicycle Touring Co. Ltd. the interactive home pageson the website. If you the length of Thailand in 30 days over 1500 miles They are located at 15/120 Petchakasim Road are interested in the Association more information / 2400 kms which includes 24 days of riding and 6 (between Soi 27 and 29) Hua Hin. strategic days off for sightseeing, relaxation, and to Phone: 081 734 469 or email: info@tourdeasia.org. can be found at the website or by email. take it all in. www.huahininseudunsuomalaiset.fi or huahininseudunsuomalaiset@gmail.com

In March 2013, HHSSY rented a new home base near the Grand Plaza Hotel. There are two meeting rooms upstairs and the library downstairs as well festive season with a Father´s Day Dinner, as a small kitchen. One of the meeting rooms has Finland´s Independence Day Party and a traditional Christmas Celebration, ”the Little Christmas Party”.

WIFI and a computer for the members to use.

Ther are now over 230 Members with different Regular visits to concerts in Bangkok have also activities arranged every week day during the been on list of activities. winter season. We can bike together, go to the gym, discuss the challenges of IT, practice Thai language or have a typical sauna on Saturday afternoons.

Bikes are ridden each day taking in all the sights along the way, with dinner parties and a comfortable night’s sleep after a day in the saddle. There will be plenty of rest stops along the route to refuel your body, fill your water bottles, and, should you need it, provide a repair for your bicycle. After arriving at the hotel, its shower time, then perhaps a massage or a cool drink in the pool while our bike techs maintain your bike in peak condition!

LET’S SEA HUA HIN ALFRESCO RESORT – ECO INNOVATION

From the resort that introduced daily minibar credits comes another innovation that challenges the status quo. Hotel guests the world over are familiar with in-room requests to reuse towels but how many actually offer rewards for participating?

Let’s Sea now does with new Eco-Coupons.

Let’s Sea guests can choose to help the environment by reusing their linen and therefore directly reducing the amount of chemicals used in the laundering process. In turn they are immediately rewarded for their efforts with a 200 THB EcoCoupon per day to spend at any of Let’s Sea’s food and beverage outlets, Gaia Spa and even for Khun Suwit Raenroonruang, Deputy Mayor, who Z-Luxe Club privileges. masterminded the annual Hua Hin Golf Festival, To participate, guests simply place the Eco-Chic said at the Skål gathering: “I hope Hua Hin can be flag outside their door before 9am and an Ecolabeled as the best golf destination of 2014. It will Coupon is soon delivered. This one small action boost tourism, which means business and jobs for has immediate benefits for both the environment the Thai community”. and guests at Let’s Sea. The gathering ended with a Charity raffle for the This the first property in Thailand to implement this Skål for the Children’s Literacy Program. unique Eco-Coupon program, Let’s Sea is also

helping to ensure that the natural beauty of Hua Hin and its relaxed way of life will continue to be enjoyed by many more guests in the future.

For further information and reservations please click on www.letussea.com

Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Webster Wins Business Excellence Award

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ebster University Thailand (WUT) has been awarded the prestigious Prime Minister’s Business Enterprise for 2013 in a ceremony on September 25th. Webster University Thailand is the only University among the 23 firms in 8 categories selected for the award this year.

The Prime Minister’s Award was established in 1992 by the Thai Ministry of Industry and recognises exceptional Thai enterprises, particularly those that compete in the global marketplace. With this award, Webster University Thailand joins a very exclusive club of business institutions in Thailand.

WUT attracts students from more than 60 countries with 85% of the student body coming from overseas. Students are attracted to the internationally recognized programs and the diverse student body is complimented with faculty

members from over 25 countries.

“I am delighted that our effort in promoting Thailand as an education destination and our quest for excellence has been recognized by the Thai Government“said Rector Ratish Thakur.

“Webster University is honored to receive a Prime Minister’s Award, the highest government recognition for excellence in service in Thailand,” said Elizabeth “Beth” J. Stroble, President of Webster University. “As we advance a mission to provide learning experiences that transform students for individual excellence and global citizenship, we are proud to welcome a globally diverse community of faculty, staff, and students to Webster Thailand. This recognition affirms the importance of our university’s vision and

mission, and for that we are grateful.”

Recognition and awards are nothing new for WUT, earlier this year the University was a recipient of the Thailand Trust Mark, an award that recognizes the American University as a leader in the educational institutions in Thailand both locally and internationally.

WUT is evaluated as “excellent” by The Office of National Education Standards and Quality Assessment (ONESQA).

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WORLD WILDLIFE FOUNDATION PETCHABURI A Place Where Wildlife Gets A Second Chance

he World Wildlife Foundation Thailand (WWFT) is an Animal Rescue Centre established in 2001 in Petchaburi Province. After humble origins the Foundation, thanks to its founder Dutch born Edwin Wiek with staff, volunteers and limited sponsorship now provides a haven for over 400 rescued animals on a property with 29 hectares of land and with the support of the Abbot of the nearby Kao Look Chang temple.

Visiting the Centre provides an opportunity to gain some understanding of the real threats faced by native animals but also a real life experience to see the progression of rescued animals from being mistreated towards rehabilitation and gaining a quality of life. At one end of that scale there are monkeys with broken limbs and even serious brain injury being treated with expert Vetinary care but at the other end there are those clearly enjoying as close as possible to a natural life. This is provided in surroundings that mimic a natural habitat and free from the dangers of their previous existence.

an animal rescue is when an animal has been kept as a pet but when that cute furry baby reaches adulthood, especially if it begins to display aggressive behaviour. Its keepers are then either unable or unwilling to provide the necessary care required. Perhaps the parents of the baby were killed by poachers; just adding to the animal’s trauma.

Prevent hunting and promote conservation of all natural resources, fauna and flora alike.

Educate local people, tourists and the international community to appreciate, understand and protect wild animals and their rainforest habitat. Cooperate with and assist the Royal Forestry Department and other organizations concerned with the rescue and conservation of wild animals.

Accordingly a recued animal which has never learnt to socialise with its own kind, is often stressed and physically in bad shape upon arrival. These animals need specialist care and a place where they are unthreatened, Gather knowledge to start up a unshackled and free to roam, becoming part of release program for those animals that qualify for re-introduction into the wild. their own ‘community’.

There are no elephant rides here, with these magnificent animals free to wander around unchained. You can also see the patience of the carers with sun bears too stressed to leave a confined shelter gradually being encouraged to re-enter open spaces.

Community education is an important part of reaching the objectives of the Centre so that everyone understands that keeping these There are huge enclosures for colonies of animals as pets or for commercial gain is cruel gibbon, islands where there is very little human and no longer acceptable. intervention as well as individual attention for animals which need to learn for the first time Just One Example how to live a ‘natural life’ as their own species, ‘Bo’, a pig tailed macaque monkey was rescued not some sort of ‘pseudo human’. Edwin is from Petchaburi temple after being beaten and very pleased with recent rainfall now swelling suffering from a broken leg. He was left on the nearby lake as the gibbon colonies on the a chain without treatment for a week before four islands of the lake were evacuated during being discovered by concerned locals. Bo is drier times. Low water levels in the lake were still recovering from this ordeal. If he finally causing concerns to the security of the colony. stops pulling off the plaster cast, he now has Progress towards rehabilitation may be a long the chance of a pain free life. and difficult road particularly when animals have So What Are The Main Objectives? been isolated from their own ‘kind’ and keep in captivity in cruel and confined enclosures for Rescue wild animals from places where they many years. One of the typical scenarios for are maltreated and/or neglected, and help them to spend the rest of their lives in a sanctuary as close to the natural environment as possible with the best possible care. In particular, provide sanctuary for those animals that no-one else is prepared to care for, e.g. the sick and disabled.

What’s On Offer?

The Centre offers either a full day or half day experience to visit, learn and contribute to the Centre’s future. This includes an arranged pick up from regional hotels, tours of the Centre with experienced and knowledgeable guides and the chance of walking (not riding) with the elephants and getting up close and personal after the walk to shower and feed them. This is not about tourist ‘entertainment’ and without the performance of trained animals in displays of unnatural behaviour, but interacting with the wildlife in a way which does not compromise animal welfare values.

‘March For Elephants’ in Bangkok, calling for a complete ban on the ivory trade in Thailand.

Worldwide condemnation of this trade is rapidly gaining pace, including condemnation in Thailand. Edwin was able to gain an assurance from the Minister of Natural Resources that the Prime Minister has ordered for changes to Thai law in relation to elephant protection, however further action is still likely to be needed before the aims of the WWFT are met.

How Can You Be Involved?

Contacts: Phone 0822458598, 032 458135.

Email daytrips@wfft.org,Website: www.wfft.org

At these contact points you can find out about how to join a tour, volunteer or donate to the There is also a volunteer program for those who WWFT. Casual visitors are not encouraged. want to contribute in a very practical way with Book your visit to fully appreciate the Centre’s accommodation on site and expert guidance. activities.

Not just for overseas students (often interested Where: in a future in biological sciences) but for those who are looking for some quiet time away The Centre is about 20km from Cha –Am. Look from city life with a focus on helping Thailand’s for the green and white signs after travelling about 5 km from Cha-Am towards Bangkok on wildlife future. the left side of the main highway. Just follow The Centre has its own battles to fight both on the signs along a winding road in OK condition; the wider environmental front and in securing it’s not hard to find. The main gate is the last of the safety of the animals in its care. four as you arrive.

Finding a native deer literally stolen after cutting through the fencing then killed with its antlers removed by ‘poachers’ was a harrowing scene.

Founder Edwin was quickly on the scene after a phone call from a staff member finding the abandoned body off the property some days after the event. Police involvement and a reward for the discovery of the perpetrator were immediate, but as Edwin comments, there is a limit to the amount of security that can be provided. ‘Do we really need security cameras?’

Educate people, particularly children, to stop cruelty to animals.

In particular campaign against the illegal trade in wild animals for the pet industry and discourage the use of animals for entertainment, for example in performing animal The WWFT also co-organised the 4th October shows.

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Volume 11 Issue 1 November 2013

A gracious welcome to

HRH Princess Chulabhorn Walailak

SANTORINI CONCERT AND CARNIVAL 2013 P

ink Elephant is presenting the Santorini Park Concert and Carnival 2013. The music festival will feature some of Thailand’s favourite artists such as Room 39, J Jetrin, Lipta, Ben Chalathit, Tor Saksit, Q Flure, Two Pobthorn and many more. There will also be a surprise show that will absolutely get concert goers in the New Year mood.

There are many facilities provided such as parking area at Premium Outlet Cha-Am and Santorini Cha-Am, Shuttle bus services from Premium Outlet Cha-Am to the show area. Saturday 21st December 2013 at Santorini Park Cha-Am from 17.30 – 2.00 hrs. Ticket price 1,200 baht available at Thaiticketmajor or buy tickets at Santorini Park Cha-Am.

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ua Hin Thailand, Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Walailak was graciously welcomed to Dusit Thani Hua Hin by Vipada Donavanik, Assistant Vice President-Dusit Group; Her Royal Highness was staying at the hotel while making visits to thank the volunteers serving the Princess Mother’s Medical Volunteer Foundations around the provinces of Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Petchburi and Prachuab Khiri Khan.

JOYS OPEN GOLF TOURNAMENT 2013

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ne of the most popular tournaments on the Cha-Am golfing calendar will be held on 14th November 2013 at Palm Hills Golf Course.

Well known Cha-Am identity Kolbjorn Moe is hosting the Event for amateurs only for the fifth time and bookings are now open. Participants will also be able to enjoy pre game breakfast and dinner as a part of the Event.

Sponsors for the event include OrkideExpressen (The TourOperator of Norway), Callaway, Odyssey, Stiklestad Golfklubb and many local companies. The Cha-Am Golf Club is also an active supporter.

Further information and online bookings can be made at www.thaimat.no/golf. You can also book by sending an e-mail to: kolbjorn.moe@gmail.com

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

ASANEE- WASAN – ‘BROTHERS IN ROCK’

here is a significant difference between various Thai rock bands that appear at entertainment venues around Hua Hin and Cha-Am and the ‘real thing’. To Western ears many sound repetitive; with one song much the same as the last or an ordinary cover of some all too familiar songs (heard Hotel California lately?). Some have synthesised ‘help’; it’s always disappointing when the lead guitar break happens without the on stage guitarist playing a note.

However this is not only a Thai phenomenon with bands worldwide ‘cheating’ in a variety of ways.

Amongst foreigners in Thailand, there is generally little knowledge or appreciation about what’s on offer at the serious end of the Thai rock industry. If you like rock music and get the chance, you definitely should visit a concert of one of the more famous Thai rock bands, they’re good!

The latest of these concerts in the Region was on 28th September at the Rama VI Army Centre and the band? - The legendary Asanee-Wasan, a very real Thai rock band, live on stage. Our thanks for access to the concert from the Cha-Am Municipality Mayor’s

Office (Khun Beer) and the Singha Corporation (Khun Tik).

This was a HUGE Event with over 10,000 attending. Apart from the reputation and fan base of the band, having an open venue midway between Hua Hin and Cha-Am and a rain free day/night also made a difference. The crowd attending a recent Carabao concert in Cha-Am was probably one third the size.

Unfortunately that was a wet day and may not have been promoted to the full extent in Hua Hin. This time with the cooperation of the promoters, Hua Hin & Cha-Am Today was able to let our readers know in advance about the Asanee – Wasan concert in our September issue. Maybe that helped?

Thai rock concerts seem to have a reputation for crowd disruption which, similarly to the Carabao concert, the promoters, the Singha Corporation now have under control; another reason for non-Thais to ‘tune-in’. A warm night, the crowd tightly packed, but an atmosphere of excitement and no ‘agro’.

This band recorded their first album in 1986 and has undertaken world tours in the past including venues in Singapore, Los Angeles, London, New York, Sydney and a number of cities in India. The band is fronted by brothers Asanee “Pom” and Wasan “Toe” Chotikul.

The younger brother Khun ‘Toe’ took a lesser role in this performance. His orientation towards more ‘gentle’ and acoustic sounds was evident with his older brother, the rocker of the two, leading the way in the concert. We were treated to a wild drum solo with everyone else taking a short break as the drummer carried on to energetically ‘rev up’ the crowd.

It’s hard work being a drummer in this band!

The band also featured two lady backing singers, adding to the depth of the sound. We are told that one is of Italian origin, but that is

unconfirmed.

Asanee-Wasan plays a fairly commercial though distinctive, ‘soft rock’ style of music, not at the blues or heavy metal end of the spectrum. It’s easy listening and for those who don’t understand the Thai lyrics it doesn’t really matter. However we noticed the ‘peace sign’ on the ‘Les Paul’ Gibson guitar wielded

by Khun ‘Pom’ so maybe there is an element of a political message somewhere.

The very few ‘falang’ in attendance were clearly enjoying the concert as well as the Thai fans.

The occasional scream of appreciation from the young ladies in the crowd often greeted the opening chords and riffs for those familiar with the band’s hits.

To get a taste, here’s a you tube link you may enjoy: http://www.youtube.com / atch?v=7ZL83R3Hj Sk&feature=share&list=TLtm5S3PoBfesXVIfgT B9BvNckQ0V6A_L3 Next time there is a real concert near you, we’ll try to let you know; check it out!

FOOTNOTE: Yes, plectrums (‘picks’) were thrown into the crowd as a trademark of an Asanee – Wasan performance, but nowhere near me!

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Cha-Am to Launch An Aerobic’s Festival

PEOPLE IN BUSINES

hun Chakrut Vesvarut or as he is called Jackie’s. business place was not having much luck on the day we talked to him at Toyota Showroom

To begin with machinery operating on the road works outside the Company showrooms had thrown up a stone which managed to hit and shatter one of the rather large glass panels of the showroom frontage.

Secondly as I wandered around the showroom checking out the latest Toyota models the cream coloured tile seemed somewhat sticky though I didn’t really pay much attention.

Inspection complete, I was shown to the customer lounge where I would be introduced to Khun Jackie. I noticed a series of black footprints across the showroom floor then, to my embarrassment, realised that the trail lead to the place where I was sitting. Apparently I had stepped into some liquid tar/asphalt from the road works before walking into the showrooms and I was responsible for the Khun Jackieis the managing director of Toyota Showroomand apart from his usual nickname he aforementioned footprints! could be referred to as ‘Mr Toyota’. Khun Jackie Along with his good humoured staff Khun Jackie has an extended family, including his brother and was unflustered by my sabotage of the showrooms sister all with interests in Toyota. His brother and very quickly the mess was cleaned up. They operates a certified Toyota reselling business which even produced some asphalt-specific cleaner for is very useful when customers are looking to trade the job. Perhaps I wasn’t the first! in their current vehicle on a new Toyota.

HUA HIN SEA DISCOVERY

NOT Sea Explorer; our apologies!

Hua Hin Today made an error in an article published in our October issue.

We were obviously so excited with a trip on the Hua Hin Sea Discovery that we mistakenly referred to the ocean going high speed cruiser as the Sea Explorer, whoops! For us it was an exploration but we apologise to the operators and to our readers for using that name in the article.

For more information about the fantastic ocean discovery trips that are available on

Hua Hin Sea Discovery: www.huahinseadiscovery .com

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to Honour His Majesty

he Cha-Am Municipality is organising a big aerobics festival to promote a healthy lifestyle for local people and to celebrate the 86th birthday anniversary of His Majesty the King. Taking place at the Cha-Am lookout, this event will be enjoyed by 1,000 participants, most of whom are aerobics lovers.

The Municipality is providing financial support for local communities which proposed a project to promote and maintain good health. Among many other local communities that submitted proposals the Fah Sai Cha-Am Suay Group has received funding for the project to promote exercise in the Cha-Am’s municipal area.

Realising the benefits of this project, the ChaAm Mayor proposed that it should be organised as a big festive event so that everyone living in the city could participate.

It is expected that up to 1,000 participants will join the activity, said Mr. Nukul Pornsomboonsiri, the mayor of Cha-Am.

Starting at 5 p.m. on 30 November 2013, the event includes a ceremony of expressing Importantly, this event will in advance celebrate gratitude to His Majesty followed by an aerobics the birthday anniversary of the long-reigning exercise until 7 p.m. Anyone interested are welcome to join, added Mr. Nukul. monarch who is now staying in Hua Hin.

Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

THE CHA-AM HOSPITAL – Things May Be Changing

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t’s fair to say, deserved or not, that the Cha –Am Hospital has an image problem. Apart from the stories that are told (often second or third hand) which quickly circulate and perhaps grow out of perspective and context; it just doesn’t look good.

minute drive to Hua-Hin may be the difference between life and death.

Cha-Am really needs a fully equipped and functional local hospital. It’s currently very busy and straining at the seams.

The hospital appears to be much like an older style country town hospital; Cha-Am isn’t like that However, on examination things aren’t as bad as anymore and further growth and development is the first appearances may suggest. There are 24 hour emergency services although the lack of happening every day! signage and visible directions for new admissions However plans are afoot, with promised funding, cannot be described as ‘user friendly’, especially to change that with a development program over for foreigners. The admission staff is eager to the next three years. Although the ASEAN future understand what the health concern is and a cannot be the ‘be all and end all’ of the stimulus welcoming smile on the face of the admissions for change, that’s part of the reason. officer was clear and genuine without any prompting from our reporters. Apart from the At a local level, this is the only hospital in Cha- common ‘bad news’ stories we have also been Am. In emergency situations there is a need for told by a former grateful foreign patient about a Cha-Am critical care facility apart from the need real lifesaving intervention from the available to provide simple surgical procedures, diagnostic emergency services. services and in-patient care. An extra twenty The hospital spokesman Dr Prakasit Chomchuen (or Khun Mhor Den as his is better known) is an orthopaedic specialist and the Deputy Director.

He completed his early medical training at the Chiang Mai University, his home City. After working at various hospitals in Chang Rai and then completing specialist training at Rajavithi Hospital in Bangkok, he was appointed to his present position in October 2012.

to increase the bed capacity from the current 90 to 120. He also described plans to enable minor surgical procedures and an overall ‘facelift’ over the next three years. He understands that improvements are required, including the ability to communicate in English.

Khun Mhor Den is all too familiar with the common issues of motorbike accidents, gastric symptoms and dengue fever. These are frequent health issues that he is confident that the hospital staff can manage in a professional and efficient manner. Emergency admissions may take over an hour to attend however critical cases will always be prioritised with immediate care on hand. And small reminder, if you can, don’t forget to bring The Hospital Director is Dr Panuwat Sapkiree, BA, your passport.

MD. Khun Mhor Den described the current staffing arrangements (around 100 in total) which include ten doctors ,including those with specialties in paediatrics and gynaecology apart from his own specialty. He talked about expansion plans

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN

PHETCHABURI WIN FIVE AWARDS

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he Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently organised the 9th Thai Tourism Industry Award Competition 2013. The awards are made to enhance and improve the quality of tourism and to raise the awareness of travellers and entrepreneurs about cultural and natural attractions. The awards were presented to the winners on 27th September 2013 at Muang Thong Thani in Nonthaburi and are recognised worldwide.

Park won an award for recreational site to promote learning. The park specialises in energy saving and environmental-friendly campaigns in the form of exhibits and multi- media, naturally built classrooms and mangrove forest.

Ban Tham Sua Tree Bank won an award for a tourist attraction created by a local community. It is well known for interdependent living close to nature, launching a tree agriculture-based tourism, Many tourism attractions in Phetchaburi bank, entered the competition and won five reforestation, cooking organic food and home stays with local people. awards as follows: The awards celebrate tourist attractions in Phetchaburi which deserve recognition.

Interested visitors and students can arrange a study tour and participate in the activities taking place at the award winning attractions.

For more information, please contact 032 459 293 for Kaeng Krachan National Park, 032 592 100 for Queen Mother Srinagarindra Park, 032 508 40510 or 032 508 379 or 032 508 352 for Princess Kaeng Krachan National Park won Sirindhorn Environmental Park and 089 an award for the best natural tourist 810 1806 for Ban Tham Sua Tree Bank. attraction. At the park visitors can join a reforestation activity, natural dam construction, butterfly and bird watching, trekking while admiring various kinds of plants and wildlife.

Queen Mother Srinagarindra Park (Chai Pattana Foundation) won an award for agriculture-based tourist attraction. The park is outstanding in terms of ecotourism, herbs, ecosystem studying and various activities including making traditional Thai balm, tea and herbal compress balls.

Princess

Sirindhorn

Environmental

world-wide, funding will be an ongoing issue.

There also will always be room for sponsorship and community based financial and practical support.

For example, the Cha-Am Golf Club is currently raising funds for the latest model AED (Automated External Defibrillator to ensure that this device is more available for those suffering from potentially fatal heart failure symptoms.

Perhaps it’s time for other local organisations to become involved in supporting the hospital in the best interests of the Cha-Am community.

Footnote: Our reporters noticed that the admission form for essential personal information requested upon attendance at the hospital is not The most common given reason for well written and confusing in its English language motorbike accidents? – stray dogs! content. We have now forwarded a (suggested) ‘revised version’ as a small gesture towards Cha-Am Today hopes that our report may be a helping the hospital ‘come of age’ and become a further stimulus for change, although recognising more respected community facility. We hope that that in common with government medical services helps just a little!

Paramotoring “It’s More Than Just Breathtaking” SKY CLUB THAILAND - Pak Nam Pran

They are occasionally seen in the skies of Hua Hin and surrounds. You can see a small seated figure suspended below a fabric wing flying slowly with the propulsion of a small motor.

It looks very peaceful and bird-like, although those with any degree of acrophobia (fear of heights) may instantly cringe at the thought!

The term paramotoring was first used by Englishman Mike Byrne in 1980 and popularized in France around 1986 when power was added to the then-new paraglider wings. This form of flying is also known as powered paragliding. It combines the flying characteristics of a paraglider with the autonomy and range of powered flight.

Paramotors are said to be relatively easy to learn to fly and do not need an airfield or runway. They can take-off from an open, flat field with no need to find a hill site facing into wind, or even to wait for the wind to blow.

They are quickly and easily rigged and de-rigged, and once dismantled can be put in the boot of a car or taken to exotic locations as hand baggage.

Paramotor flight has been described as is one of the safest forms of aviation. The primary reason is low air speed and inherent stability. The research and technology that is constantly being applied to paramotoring has made this form of flight extremely accessible and safe for the general public.

What exactly is a paramotor?

This simplest of all powered aircraft consists of a small motor driving a propeller, worn like a backpack under a paraglider wing and providing thrust to take off, climb and maintain level flight.

Once airborne, the paramotor can be used to motor along and watch the world go by beneath or, if conditions permit, soar with a thermal lift to make long cross-country flights.

Many paramotor pilots are paraglider pilots looking for more flexibility in their flying; many others are new to flying but become interested in paramotoring, and then also in pure paragliding flight.

Sky Club Thailand The local venue for paramotoring is located 25 minutes south of Hua Hin city centre at Pak Nam Pran near Dolphin Bay. Sky Club offers a unique aerial experience for all ages.

They have three internationally certified pilots, each with over 10 years’ experience. This includes commercial paramotoring as aerial photography and filming is ideally suited to this form of flight. Aerial surveillance, including the assessment of environmental damage such as illegal logging is also on the resume.

All the pilots are certified instructors with various international organisations such as FAI (Europe), ASC (USA) and Royal Thai Flying Club.

On offer are comfortable, safe and exciting 10 min, 20min or 30min excursions as a passenger. If you really want to get into this form of flying yourself and become your own pilot, a comprehensive training program is also on offer. The time needed before you can fly solo is approximately 25 hours. Of which 20 hours will be hands on training and 5 hours of flight and weather theory.

No experience is needed for you to be a passenger with one the Sky Club pilots at the helm. Just sit back and enjoy the cool breeze and big skies around spectacular Sam Roi Yod National Park and along the beaches of Dolphin Bay, Pranburi.

However the best description of paramotoring can only come from someone who has experienced a flight first hand. Here is an unedited version from one intrepid first time passenger!

When I told friends “I’m going para-motoring”, their first response was always “para-what?” When I explained that I explained that

I’d be strapping myself to an oversized fan and a giant parasail before attempting to fly, they said their final goodbyes.

Undeterred I set off for Pak Nam Pran near Hua Hin on a warm, clear Friday morning. Driving in, the Sky Club hangar is a welcoming sight. There’s coffee, sandwiches and a dozen people running around. My eyes though are drawn straight to the beautiful machines lined up in the centre of the expansive space.

Waiting for us is instructor Mark Silverberg. He reassures me by talking about (a) his 12 years of experience (b) the risk averse, middle-aged family men who make up the usual paramotoring demographic (c) how the flight is so gentle and relaxing that he considers it “air. therapy. “Most reassuring of all is that Mark himself will take me up today and do all the work - all I have to do is take in the view.

“It’s not about going from A to B, it’s about enjoying the air,” Mark says, explaining that they fly only in clear, calm weather. Though you can go as high up as 18,000 feet, it’s clear that flying low is the real pleasure in para-motoring - so low that the tips of your toes brush the tops of trees. It’s interesting to learn that paramotoring lures in photographers, map makers and explorers because of the kind of unparalleled access it offers to wild places. It’s better than a plane for low flights, and cheaper than a helicopter, plus you don’t have the rotor backwash bending the trees in half and scaring away the birds.

I’m going on the Para-motoring Discovery Flight, but Sky Club also offers training - a week or roughly 20 to 30 hours will be enough to prepare you for your first solo flight. For those interested in para-motoring, the two-stroke gasoline engines come in different sizes depending on how much weight they have to heft. There’s the foot launch option for the single paramotorist, chiefly recommended for an easy take off in cramped conditions, and the stronger motors that can help two people seated in a three-wheeled frame lift off.

I now know all I need to know and Mark says the weather is clear enough for us to attempt a flight. We head out to the bumpy runway, my helmet is already strapped on, my earpiece and mike sorted and as I stride bravely forward I allow myself to momentarily savour the illusion of being in the Thailand’s edition of Top Gun. Soon I’m being strapped in to my little cloth seat restraints across the thighs, another around my torso. Mark is saying soothing things in my ear set, but the roar of the giant fan whirring behind me has me clutching my armrests with sudden white-knuckled desperation.

I’m certain we’re going to drive off the edge of the runway when I feel the tug and we rise steeply into the air. I can’t help whooping, deafening Mark and scattering a flock of white birds that choose to take off in a picturesque formation at the same time as us. Below me is the area around Sam Roi Yod National Park. To one side is a pure white, sandy line of beach and an emerald ocean, to the other the beautyful mountains of sam roi yod.; Just below the lovely white dome of a stupa framed by temple buildings. You’d think I’d be used to Thailand’s beauty by now, but the view takes my breath away anyway.

Mark heads down to the beach, doing lazy spirals over a lovely expanse of ocean before flying low along the line where the curling wave meets the sand. The spirals and wing overs help him control height and it’s where the adrenaline junkies can get their fix. (Go up high, and you can also turn off the motor and simply glide with your parasail.) Though my reaction to high buildings is usually an urge to jump off the edge, I’m entirely at ease and just drinking in the view. All too soon it’s time to land. In moments the break in the weather will give way to rain. As we walk back to the hangar, little drops setting the puddles around us rippling, Mark tells me that once he’s had a chance to go up in the air, he always feels like his day is set, that very little could upset him now. I know just what he means.

SKY Club Thailand. Phone: +66 (0) 8740 11113

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Bicycle Racing Championship in Hua Hin

Ford Thailand Showcases 1.0L EcoBoost Engine combined with the ‘Small but Powerful’ Self-Defence Workshop for Women

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he Klai Klangwon Bicycle Club of Hua Hin, with the cooperation of the Hua Hin Municipality and other organisations, is hosting the Hua Hin Bicycle Racing Championship on 5th December 2013.

Aimed to promote good health amongst local people, especially youth and to encourage them to stay away from illicit drugs, the Event also celebrates the King’s birthday on 5th December 2013 and aims to boost tourism in Hua Hin. Winners will be awarded the trophies of Their Majesties the King and Queen, reported the chairman of Klai Kangwon Bicycle Club of Hua Hin Mr. Somchai Krajaejerm.

The competition will be held between 30th November to 1st December 2013 at the Hua Hin Clock Tower and the Boh at 9 a.m. from the Clock Tower to the Hin Lek Fire Fai Shooting Field. There are two categories: Hill. mountain bike racing for the King’s trophy and the Mountain bike racing is sub-categorized into 3 road bicycle racing for the Queen’s trophy. groups: Group A (40 kms.), Group B (25 kms.) and Road bicycle racing is divided into 9 sub- Group C (10 kms.). It will begin at 11 a.m. on 2nd categories: 130 km. racing for males, 115 km. December 2013 at the Boh Fai Shooting Field. racing for 30-30 year old males, 115 km. racing for 40-49 year old males, 100 km. racing for females Application fees for each of the above mentioned and males of over 50 years old, 100 km. racing sub-categories is 350 Baht per person. for youths, 100 km. racing for males of over 40 For further information, please contact 082 240 years old, 70 km. racing and 35 km. VIP racing. All 9471 and 081 429 4488 or Hua Hin Municipality at categories will take place on 1st December 2013 tel. 032 511 047 ext. 100/102.

BANYAN GOLF CLUB ‘PINEAPPLE PAIRS’

Banyan Golf Club, Hua Hin is proud to present “Banyan Pineapple Pairs 2013”on Sunday 10th November 2013.

Tee times available from 11.00 am and limited to 24 pairs H Format of play: Better ball stableford 3/4 H/cap allowance H Max H/CAP: Men 24, Women 32 H Entry fee: THB 4,400 per pair (Inclusive of tournament fee, green fee, caddy and buffet dinner) H Golf Cart: Optional THB 750 (1 per player)

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Royal Hua Hin - November 7th - 10th 2013

The event also incorporates both individual and team competitions, with golfers from 14 countries including the United States and Canada confirming their participation.

omen are often viewed as being at a physical disadvantage because of smaller build, making them generally weaker than men and therefore unable to protect themselves against potential threats. Is that how you view them?

To help women realise their hidden strength, Ford Thailand arranged the “Go Further with EcoBoost” self-defense workshop for women to educate and remind them that, despite their smaller build compared to men, they can bring out the fighter within.

Ford’s EcoBoost powertrain shares the same idea, being smaller than conventional engines, yet more powerful.

The new Ford Fiesta with 1.0 EcoBoost engine was recently awarded the Women’s World Car Ford joined the experts at the Legend Thai Boxing of the Year and the Women’s World Car of the school to develop a self-defence workshop that Year Economy Car. The judges praised its fuelfuses the art of Thai boxing and contemporary efficient engine, which reduces fuel consumption self-defence, to make an ideal class for women. by 20 per cent. The car was also applauded for Participants can take the skills that they learned being environmental-friendly and reducing the and apply them to real-life situations, especially CO2 emissions by 15 per cent, delivering subfor women who drive, travel or live alone.

100 g/km CO2 emissions. Ford will launch the “Through the Go Further with EcoBoost new Fiesta with 1.0L EcoBoost engine as the first campaign, we are introducing Ford’s innovative model in Thailand this year. engine technology that delivers maximum power The trainers at Legend Thai Boxing also provided Prizes: and performance despite its small size. The some basic self-defense tips for women. If the H Best Stable ford points: 1st, 2nd, 3rd 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine is small enough to fit attacker approaches in close-range, the hardest H Nearest the pin: all par 3’s #2, #4, #15, #17 in the overhead compartment on a plane, but it parts of the body which are the elbows, knees, H Longest drive: Men #9, Women #18 comes with the same power of a 1.6-litre engine fists and the head can all be used as a weapon H 2’s competition: Extra THB 100 – all while delivering one of the best fuel-efficiency to hit the attacker. For women who aim to defend figures of vehicles in the same segment,” said Timetable: themselves, attack only the weak points: nose, Tidayut Nophaket, communications director, Ford H 10.00 am Check in Tea, coffee, juice and pharynx, below the diaphragm and in the groin.

Thailand. pastries available at the Terrace Restaurant When elbowing the attacker, the blow needs to H 11.00 am First tee time (photo on 1st tee) “Similarly, although women may be smaller in be in the ribs or to the chin only. This is because H 04.30 pm Buffet opens size, Ford believes that they have hidden potential women’s size allows a good attack in the two H 05.30 pm Prize giving presentation inside that can be used efficiently to maximise areas. Most importantly for self-defense, do not For further information or reservation please contact power. We organized this workshop to illustrate attack the same areas too many times, or the 032-616-200 or reservations@banyanthailand. the concept of ‘small but powerful’ in an engaging attacker will know to break way. The key is to deliver a debilitating blow with the first hit. manner.” com, www.banyanthailand.com

THE 6th SINGHA THAILAND JUNIOR WORLD GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP

here will be four age categories in each gender competing at the Thailand Junior World Championship at Royal Hua Hin Golf Course between 7th and 10th November 2013. The older A and B classes will be playing 72 holes while the C and D divisions compete over 54 holes and three days.

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No.1 Insurance Company Founded in Hua Hin

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first rated insurance company of Thailand has lately been officially opened in Hua Hin, asking concerned public officers and Hua Hin Hospital staff to inform it of any insurers who were injured or killed from motorcycle accident so that compensation will be immediately paid to them or their relatives.

The director of the Claims Department to Road Accident Victims Protection Co. Ltd. (RVP) Mr. Somchai Sudsanorh said that the company’s headquarters was located in Bangkok and there were many branches throughout Thailand.

Rungsrid Luxitanonda, the Thailand Golf Providing coverage for motorcycle insurance, the Association President, is looking forward to company already gave such insurance to a total of 13 million motorcycles in Thailand. The range welcoming young golfers from around the globe. of insurance payment varies: 161-323 Baht per “We’ve received increasing interest from golfers year for a motorcycle of 75-125 CCs. and 376-645 around the world for the Thailand Junior World Baht per year for a motorcycle of 125-150 CCs. or Championship, which has been held for six motor taxis. consecutive years. The event not only offers the opportunity for our golfers to compete against Once an insurer completes insurance application, foreign players, it also provides a chance for he/she will receive 15,000 Baht for medical cultural exchange among the athletes, which treatment at hospital in case of road accident. The helps boost the country’s tourism in one way or RVP also provides 50,000 Baht compensation if an insurer is injured from road accident and 200,000 the other.”

Baht for the insurer’s relatives in case of death from road accident. In addition, the company will pay the insurer 200 Baht on medical treatment at hospital every day, but no more than 20 days.

At present, 23-30 people are killed from motorcycle accident on the road in Thailand, whereas 1,700 are injured. The death rate from motorcycle accident is higher than any death rate from other diseases and illnesses. Therefore, the RVP has to pay compensation to its insurers or their relatives almost every day.

In Prachuab Khirikhan, there is a branch of RVP in Muang District. Since the rate of motorcycle accident is increasingly high in Hua Hin, a new branch of RVP was set up at Hua Hin Hospital.

The company is now asking members of Sawang Hua Hin Foundation, police officers, the media and especially staff of Hua Hin Hospital to inform it of any road accident involving motorcycles so that its insurers or their relatives will receive financial support right away.

The RVP is a public company with the Finance Ministry taking care of its policy and practices, said Mr. Somchai.

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SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Hand AWARD – MERMAID CRUISES T

or twelve consecutive years, the Skal F International “Sustainable Development in Tourism” Awards have been presented during the

Opening Ceremony of its Annual World Congress.

Skal recently closed its 74th World Congress aboard the Carnival Glory, the first time this yearly event took place on a cruise ship. This year, Mermaid Cruises & Shipping Co. won an award in the category of Transportation.

Mermaid Cruises & Shipping Co. Ltd. was founded in 2004 in Paknampran, a fishing village on the Gulf of Thailand not far from Hua Hin. The region’s tourism includes many water-based activities. All sea and river tours in the area up until then were on traditional fossil-fuel powered craft with the associated pollution. With its base on the banks of the Pranburi River, an area renowned for its mangrove forests and wildlife, the company decided to develop a silent river boat that would not pollute the water and air or disturb the wildlife, while also enhancing the overall experience for tourists.

Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Washing Promotion

he manager of Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin, Ms. Sasipen Piyasuth, with the hospital’s staff, has launched a campaign to promote 6-step hand washing for good hygiene on the occasion of the Word Hand Washing Day. This campaign was exclusively carried out with the hospital’s solar, wind, and mains power. clients. For more information, please contact Khun Chedtapon ‘Khaek’ Maneechai, the P.R. Officer The company has also completed its third electric of the Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin at tel. 032 616 888 or 086 300 3052 (mobile) or e-mail: Chedtapon. boat (The Firefly): a 22-seater long-tail craft used Ma@bgh.co.th. at the floating market in Amphawa (near Bangkok) to take visitors on tours of the local rivers to see the fireflies after dark. This area had been plagued by noise pollution problems caused by dieselpowered boats, leading to residents even cutting down the trees where the fireflies reside so as to stop the boats visiting the area. The aim of Mermaid Cruises is to achieve the best possible practical balance between power provision, ecofriendliness, and cost efficiency. The company’s boats run on just one-tenth of the cost of the fuel needed for conventional crafts.

The absence of engine noise, fuel smell, and vibrations also make it a much more enjoyable experience for passengers. The company organises free tours for local schools and orphanages to enable local children to enjoy their environment and also teach them something about how to live in a more ecologically-friendly The result was a 12-seater, electrically-powered way, especially in relation to garbage disposal and boat called The Kingfisher, built in the style of a mangrove/shoreline preservation. traditional Thai long-tail craft. The company then also decided to develop a larger craft to take over Mermaid Cruises is the only company in S.E. Asia from its conventional diesel-powered, day-cruise that develops, builds and operates electricallypower boats. The company’s 3 craft are the only vessel. electric boat registered in Thailand. Mermaid The concept was to construct a comfortable boat Cruises has also built electrically-powered road for around 40 persons, incorporating luxury and vehicles to transport passengers to and from its fun features, but operating so as to cause the marina. least harm to the environment while providing For more information, visit www.huahincruises. maximum comfort levels for the passengers. Sun com, Skal is a member of the International 1. Is it the TRUTH? 2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?

Cat 1 was completed in December 2010 and is a Coalition of Tourism Partners (ICTP) .

3. Will it build GOODWILL and 3-way hybrid craft, with its batteries powered by

BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? 4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

THE ROYAL ROTARY CLUB OF HUA HIN

The Rotary Four-Way Test

HALIO INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HUA HIN

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alio is a community school run by parents for the benefit of their children. The school provides two educational programs: Primary for children aged 7-12 and Secondary for children aged 12-18. The Kindergarten program began in September 2013.

The school’s mission is to prepare children for the evolving demands of a rapidly changing and highly technological future.

With an intimate atmosphere and individual attention the school aims to cultivate academic excellence, confident self-expression, a strong sense of community, personal responsibility and a lifelong commitment to growth and learning.

Halio is committed to producing well-rounded, independent, proactive young adults equipped with the necessary 21st Century Skills, mindset and academic qualifications required to succeed in an unpredictable world.

The Halio Secondary Program (established in 2012) enables students to further their education at the same remarkable pace in the nurturing learning environment to which they have grown accustomed. Students continue with their modern innovative courses, and at the same time, study the internationally recognized material from the Cambridge iGCSE program. The Cambridge iGCSE program is the world’s most popular international curriculum for students age 1416. Students who would like to take the exams can do so at the British Council in Bangkok.

Upon completion of the iGCSE program, students study both core subjects and academic electives which prepare them for their High School Diploma and the American Standard Achievement Tests (SATs). The SATs serve as an entrance exam qualification for Universities and Colleges around the world. For students who do not meet the academic level required for SATs, Halio provides The Halio Primary Program was started in 2006 an alternative track that prepares students for the

by Padma Fischer-White and four like-minded GED High School Equivalency Examination. families. Dissatisfied with the quality of existing Halio’s results are evident. Children who have schools in Hua Hin, the founding parents been at the school for over a year are studying decided to start their own school and do the job at levels one to two years higher than their peers. properly. Since those humble beginnings, Halio They are happy and eager to learn, and possess a has become licensed as a language school and passion and care for their school and each other. grown to accommodate students from age seven to adult. http://www.internationalschoolhuahin.org

The projects are designed to assist those in our community who are poor, ill or disadvantaged in various ways, with a specific emphasis on projects that provide direct benefit for children in Rotary is an organisation of business people, rural schools and low income professionals and other well-meaning citizens communities. Each project must who volunteer their time and effort to helping pass a rigorous assessment and approval process those who are less well off in the community. before it is undertaken, so sponsors, donors and By helping to build sustainable prosperity, supporters can be assured that their contributions Rotarians hope to help raise people to the are used both wisely and productively. level where constructive dialogue, rather than Since official Charter in 2010, Rotary has installed destructive conflict, is the choice for our generation 7 reverse osmosis water purification systems to and for generations to come. Service projects provide clean drinking water for local schools. provide the vehicle for members to become Thailand is generally blessed with ample water involved with one another. Rotary became the resources, but the availability of clean drinking first all-volunteer service organisation. There are water is often an issue, particularly in undeveloped now some 1.2 million members in more than 33 areas. Many students in rural Thailand drink either thousand clubs in over 200 countries worldwide. untreated or poorly treated water at their schools, In 1930 a visiting Canadian to Bangkok established which could make them ill and cause them to miss the first Thai club. Since then, over 300 clubs have their classes. sprung up all over the Kingdom. Today, it is a A standard RO system produces sufficient water rare town that does not boast at least one Rotary every day for up to 400 students. An annual budget club. Naturally, all but a handful of these clubs is provided for regular, professional maintenance are Thai-speaking. Up until recently, there have so each system is able to provide clean water been English speaking clubs in only Bangkok, for up to 10 years or more. In collaboration with Chang Mai, Pattaya, Samui and Phuket. Hua the Rotary Club of Bangkok, a continual facility Hin has been long overdue, given its large foreign renovation project including the canteen and community. toilets is underway at the Rotary Bangkok School The Rotary Club of Bangkok South with some in Hua Hin. former members now living in Hua Hin, teamed Our Rotarians also participate in Christmas with the Rotary Club of Hua Hin to establish the parties for children with disabilities, activities newest Rotary club in Thailand, now called The for Thailand’s National Children’s Day, and local Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin. With the assistance beach clean-ups. The Rotary Club of Royal Hua of Past Presidents, Alex Mavro from Bangkok Hin partners with other Rotary Clubs for various South and Khun Suvit Reanroongraung from events as well. An example being the Rotary Club Hua Hin along with ex Bangkok South members of Bang Kapi’s handicapped children’s outing living in Hua Hin, Mike Smith and Alan Cooper, annually held in Thailand. the first informal gathering of interested persons took place in Khao Takiab on September 11th MEETINGS: 2009. Things progressed and the club achieved Each Friday at 12:00 noon, with the 1st Friday provisional status on December 18th 2009. of every month at 6:00 pm, at Baan Laksasubha The club was formally Chartered as the Rotary Resort at 57/3 Naresdamri Road (Hua Hin beach Club of Royal Hua Hin on April 12th 2010, with next to Sofitel). Members try to arrive 15 or 20 36 members. A 12 member Charter Board of minutes before the meeting starts to enjoy the fellowship of other members.

Directors was elected by the club.

Through fundraising events and sponsor Interested, prospective members can get a feel donations, the Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin has for the club activities by reading through the several ongoing as well as completed sustainable newsletters ‘News & Views’ and are invited to development projects in the locale of Hua Hin, contact the club for additional information. www.rotaryroyalhuahin.org Thailand.

Villa Market second outlet now open in The Venezia Hua Hin

The official opening was on the 24th October. The shop is in the back area of Venezia and larger than the one in Hua Hin but with all the same great products. Hint: To avoid parking lot jams take first road to the left after Stamford University entrance, drive the road straight and the first right will bring you straight in to Villa market area car park and avoid the long queue.

Happy Shopping!

Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

“There are several signs in Hua Hin quoting OTOP, and in recent weeks I’ve seen it mentioned in Ratchaburi, Kanchanaburi and Ayutthaya.

Somebody put me out of my misery please. What is OTOP?” This is a question posed by a contributor to a online forum and here’s the answer!

H OTOP is – ‘One Tambon, One Product’.

A Tambon is a ‘sub district’ or local community.

H OTOP is an entrepreneurial stimulus program designed by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

H OTOP drew its inspiration from Japan’s successful One Village One Product (OVOP) program.

H OTOP encourages village communities to improve local product quality and marketing.

H OTOP ensures that there are retail outlets across the country where OTOP products can be purchased.

H OTOP aims to support the locally made and marketing of products of each Thai tambon while encouraging village communities to improve their products’ quality.

H OTOP selects one superior product from each tambon to receive formal branding as a “starred OTOP product”, and provides a local and international stage for the promotion of these products.

H OTOP products cover a large array of local items, including handicrafts, cotton and silk garments, pottery, fashion accessories, household items, and consumables.

This is a strategy to develop, produce and market unique quality Thai products to benefit both small communities and the Thai economy.

The OTOP Project has strong government support on many levels; identifying potential OTOP products, providing advice on production, quality control, packaging and designs that make them even more attractive to domestic and export markets.

The entire OTOP product cycle comes under the supervision of a National OTOP Committee, with regional and provincial level committees to assist in identifying, developing and grading OTOP products.

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n December 2012 The Thai government announced the revival of OTOP with a major promotional campaign.

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra said the government will see to it that the qualities and values of OTOP items, indigenously manufactured cottage industries throughout Thailand, will be improved and increased so that they will be exported to the world markets, beginning in 2015, the year in which the ASEAN bloc will become an ASEAN Economic Community.

The Department of Community Development, which is primarily in charge of promoting and funding the OTOP industry nationwide, will be a leading force behind the efforts to develop the qualities and values of OTOP items so that they will be ranked as five-star products which will be qualified for export, according to the Prime THE OTOP CENTRE IN HUA HIN Minister.

Many visitors to Hua Hin will have noticed the In June 2013, the Prime Minister expressed her OTOP sign and logo on a three story building gratitude to OTOP producers, who she said play in the town Centre. This is the primary OTOP a vital role in promoting economic growth.

Centre in Hua Hin. It is relatively new and has “The OTOP industry involves some 30,000 now developed into a ‘must visit’ place for the indigenous manufacturers nationwide and we best Thai products available in the Region. It’s a believe many more will follow. The OTOP industry one stop shop for everything Thai! has made an estimated 70 billion baht (2.3 billion The Centre is not only a retail outlet but able to U.S. dollars) in sales profits annually and that sum supply these products to resorts, spas or for will probably go up to 100 billion baht (3.3 billion export.

U.S. dollars) by 2015,” said the Prime Minister.

On the ground floor you will find consumable In October 2013, the Commercial Ministry of products such as food & drink and creams & Thailand signed a memorandum of understanding lotions that are unique to Thailand. Check your with the King Power Company on selling own country’s Customs Regulations if you are products under a One Tambon One Product thinking about souvenirs to take or send home, (OTOP) program at Suvarnabhumi International especially food, plant material or wooden items.

Airport, with the expectation of earning 30 billion If that’s not allowed, there’s nothing wrong with THB a year. Under the agreement, King Power will sampling before you leave Thailand. act as a distributor for food, clothes, decoration items, and spa products at the airport. The OTOP One floor up and you’ll find clothing, artworks and a variety of other examples of Thai handicrafts. stores expect to be running in November.

Once again an easy way to see what’s on offer The Ministry also plans to open more stores in either as souvenirs or personal items of quality – other international airports such as Don Muang made in Thailand absolutely! and Chiang Mai, with an expected annual revenue On the third level you can experience a real 70 billion THB. Thai massage at very reasonable prices. You You can expect to find OTOP products at either may choose oils or lotions for your massage permanent venues or at trade shows and OTOP experience from the range available for sale on fairs throughout Thailand, including around the the lower level. This is an opportunity to test Hua Hin and Cha- Am Region. In Cha – Am there how your body reacts to these products and to are frequent OTOP fairs at the beach view point, delight in the aroma and health benefits available. the last being in the middle of October.

If you are uncertain about what’s on offer at other

local massage salons, this is the place where you can feel relaxed and confident. It’s set up to be visually appealing and with calming background music to complete the soothing effect of the massage. We’ve sampled the massage and can vouch for its value and pleasure. Recommended as finale to your day’s shopping!

Where is OTOP Hua Hin? At the intersection of Damnern Kasem Road (this road finishes at the Railway Station) and Petchakasem Road there is a set of traffic lights.

If you are travelling along Petchakasem Road South (towards Khao Takiab) it’s on the left, just before the traffic lights.

Open: Everyday: 9.00 AM to 10.30 PM. Contact: Phone 08-7171-3030, email : admin@otopprachuap.com, website www. otoppprachuap.com

For shoppers (retail or in bulk), thinking OTOP is a practical way of knowing what you are seeing and buying is authentic Thailand. You will also be contributing to the economic circumstances of Thai people and small communities that have demonstrated their skills and handiwork to ‘produce the goods’.

So that’s what OTOP is all about!, it’s not short for ‘Over the TOP!

Footnote: The OTOP Centre in Hua Hin is yet to be internet ‘search friendly’ and a variety of websites providing information about Hua Hin are yet to recognise this important attraction. We hope this changes soon!

LIFE FOR A FALANG AT THE MONESTERY

his is a story with a difference. Our contributor has offered a first-hand account of his decision to live the life of a monk at the temple on Khao Takiab. These are his own words and experiences.

That was how I found myself on the doorstep of Wat Khao Takiap speaking with a monk and several Thai friends about the future. A plan was forged whereby I would do some tasks around the temple and the monks would provide me with room and board while I studied Buddhism and learned the ways of the Order.

“Sun and sand, peace and tranquility are the promises of the ‘Land of Smiles’ and yet there is so much more a traveler can find in Thailand.

The first task was to clean out a small room that was to become my home at the temple. For those who are As a westerner living here, Thailand has been good familiar with Wat Khao Takiap, you’ve probably also to me. Possibly a little younger than many of my heard of it referred to offhandedly as ‘The Monkey expatriates, I came here for work more than a decade Wat’. It is home to a sizable population of monkeys ago. Others were making it a home for their retirement that act as a draw card for local and foreign tourists. with their working days behind them. My job was The temple itself is a highly regarded place of religious good and provided for me and my significant other worship and carved into mountainside of Khao Takiap, with friends coming and going. Life in this tropical has breathtaking views of Hua Hin and the ocean. paradise seemed grand.

These elements make for a much greater challenge A change in the business, a turn in the economy in preparing my new place home. The mountainous peppered by more than one ill-fated decision would terrain makes for backbreaking labor moving even bring all of that to an end. While the job ended abruptly small items. In addition fifty or more monkeys had other things like my relationship with a wonderful made it their business to tear open, inspect, topple and young Thai woman carried on for some time always then otherwise destroy any packages or furnishings offering hope that things would turn for the better. that we brought out to clean and organise. The final Sadly they did not and my partner had to make a challenge was that the room already had numerous decision for her future, which meant leaving me. residents of the rodent and insect variety.

I made the decision to convert to Buddhism years The two young ladies who helped me prepare my ago and feeling down on my luck and life in general, new accommodation also happened to be nurses I decided to let my spirituality and beliefs guide me at local hospitals. They kept a running tally of shots forward. and vaccinations that they would be giving me at the end of the day. Rabies injections were already high on the list after a monkey decided to take an exploratory gnaw on one of my arms. I also heard one girl say to the other, ‘Hi tet-neese do-aye ka’, (tetanus as well) as she watched me move wood full of rusty nails. This only garnered exhausted laughs at that point.

The aged monk sat outside watching progress with mild amusement and with his trusty ‘weapon’. This was a small wooden slingshot and stones to fend off the simian interlopers when he could. His advice was not lost on me when he commented, “They don’t like that”, referring to my efforts to keep a couple monkeys at bay with a bamboo pole. “Thanks”, I answered simply as I tried to get back to work.

common to monks, a table, chair sidled by stacks of boxes, bookcases and many Buddhist and Thai images. It was amazing what they had accomplished and while it was a world away from where I ever thought I would find myself, it was home.

Since then my daily work has included dividing up and passing out the alms collected. Starting my mornings early at 5 am the day stretches surprisingly long until evening prayers. I am now an unorthodox but welcomed member of the fraternity, a student of Buddhist and Thai teachings. For the first time I feel that I am giving something back to a community that has given, and continues to give me so much.

Sitting on the mountainside after the overnight rains with the first light of the day ahead I like watching the fishing boats come back to harbour with their catches.

I can enjoy the cool breeze of early morning with the light shimmering off the surf below. The monks emerge from their houses for morning prayers and to collect alms. One stopped alongside me taking in the view before starting off on his morning climb saying only, “It is a simple life”.

the monks and I sort through the alms dividing them into three basic categories: 1.) Perishable; 2.) Nonperishable; 3.) Buddhist/Temple goods like flowers, decorations, amulets, statues, etc. All the plastic bagged wrapped perishable items are put on a table to be eaten or handed over to other members of clergy, devoted Buddhist visitors or those in need. Dry “Yes it is Prae”, I agreed. It certainly is a simple life of goods are usually passed off for the same intent. If a untold experiences and beauty in ‘Amazing Thailand’.” fellow monk needs something, the local hospitals or others, the items are passed on.

A Day of Life at the Wat “The average day for me has meant waking up quite early at 4-5 am and making basic preparations for the day and getting ready. Still in darkness, monks begin their travels for rounds at the local markets such as the one familiar to foreigners as the ‘Night-market’ area in downtown Hua Hin. At this early hour each day the market resembles more of a food and produce market with a clear emphasis on alms for the monks.

Some of the monks will walk a round or two through the marketplace stopping to accept alms and pray with the devotees who call upon them. Other monks choose to sit in one place and to receive from the faithful their alms and prayers as they come by.

We arrived in darkness just before 6 am, but commerce was notably coming into full swing. Three hours later we were making our exit. By now business is at the At the day’s end the sun was setting over the mountain fever pitch you’d expect for a Thai market and the top to abate the scorching heat. The ladies called me monks have all but disappeared. The sun above is into ‘my new home’, and showed off their fine work. now pushing up the temperature to a low boil.

They had arranged for me a small, thin mattress Escaping the market and now back at the temple,

Now it is ‘lunch time’ or breakfast; depending on your view. I choose a few of the food items provided by the faithful and we eat.

Midday into early afternoon is often used for prayer, meditation; teaching/learning that might simply consist of a meaningful discussion with one of more of the monks, or attending to chores.

By early evening as the sun is setting a sort of ‘potluck’ dinnertime meal is served to residents of the temple ion an informal way. People just come and go at their leisure over the next hour or so, sometimes gathering to talk.

Evening prayers begin around 7 pm when people from the community gather and the well-known Balinese chanting of Buddhist prayer by the monks can be heard far and wide throughout the temple grounds and beyond.

Everything draws to a close usually well before 9 pm when the temple grounds have once again grown quiet and still, resting before the new day.”

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

H

ua Hin is full of beautiful resorts and we have happily been allowed to visit many of them but not their rooms. With our new section in Hua Hin Today I am happy to say we get to test rooms and facilities so you can get our tips on what might be suited for you or for your visiting friends. I was lucky to be allowed to stay one night in one of most beautiful hotels in the heart of Hua Hin. And I am talking about Putahrasca Hua Hin. Located on Hua Hin’s quiet shores, Putahrasca blends a quiet residential feel with chic urban decor, allowing the guests to relax and escape on holiday with its proximity to the beach and “beachy” design feel.

I have dined many times at the Oceanside Restaurant@ Putahracsa Hua Hin and I always wondered how the rooms looked like. The hotel environment is very calming & Zen and just entering into the hotel melts away any residual stress immediately. K. Nuch (the executive secretary to the manager) welcomed us to the beautiful outdoor reception with a cold towel and a cool tea. She was kind enough to bring us on a small hotel tour to see all the different types of villas & rooms. All the rooms and the villas have been designed in a very spacious calming and relaxing way, full with wooden details and all in shades of cream and white.

After the tour, we checked into ou room in a very easy and stress free procedure. I decided to invite some friends down to Oceanside for dinner to keep us company. While we were waiting for our friends to come we hung out

with a cocktail in hand at a romantic two bed lounge in Oceanside overlooking the sea. I have to mention their cocktails are really great and we had the luck to be there during happy hour so they brought us two more cocktail’s for free. After a while our friends came and we moved to the restaurant side which is beautifully decorated and we were all ready to order. For your consideration at the restaurant or in the Villas you can have BBQ at your table

(or rooftop in the Villas) this is what I call “a la systems (the best!!!!) and beautiful décor and cart dining”. I am not going to say many things we slept like babies. about the food but as always it was delicious..

Overall the hotel is beautiful and the staff is After the cocktails and the food and a very long warm and very professional. What I love most day we went back to the room. I was glad that I about this hotel is their beautiful big library didn’t have to drive back to our own place and that is beautifully decorated (really you got we had the privilege to stay in one of the 34 units to see this) but yet homely and relaxed and I around the main pool in a Silk and Sand room. actually stayed there in the morning to read my All the rooms are designed uniquely to provide newspaper. to their guest their own individualized space.

Well done Putahracsa Hua Hin, you have They have all the mood cons for a boutique created homely luxury in a wonderful location! hotel plus 400 thread sheets (I am guessing, the sheet were so soft), BOSE entertainments Tel: 032 531-470

Heaven’s Kitchen Hua Hin – Food For The Gods I t was a great pleasure to be invited to taste the food at Heaven’s Kitchen at Soi 55, Chomsin Road. The restaurant serves a mix of Thai and Western food and is known for its great lunch deals. It is centrally located and has a cozy ambiance. You can choose to sit outside watching the daily happening in town or sit inside if you so prefer.

I had heard from many sources that they serve excellent Thai food. This advice came from my Thai colleagues, so I knew if they say it’s good it’s going to be great. Michael, who runs the restaurant alongside his wife, joined us for a meal and our group become bigger and bigger

as regulars that enjoy the restaurant also joined us. Michael chose for us pork knuckles with mash potatoes and two sauces. We also had Fish prepared in two ways with a crunchy salad called Sea bass Duo which is new on the menu.

The first thing I have to say is their prices are very reasonable and their portions are huge!!!

The pork knuckles were prepared to perfection, moist inside and crisp on the outside with homemade amazingly good mashed potatoes.

I am picky with my mashed potatoes, lumps are a no go for me, but this was smooth and tasty like it should be. The pork knuckles were served with a choice of two sauces. The portion

was so large we had to ask for some help to just 169 THB. Just because you want European eat it all. food, you do not have to rob a bank to afford it.

The fish (as you can see in the accompanying picture) was served on its belly with two totally different sauces; sweet & sour with peppers on one side and with a crunchy pad Thai type of sauce on the other side. These two were very good. Heaven’s Kitchen obviously knows their food and uses fresh ingredients to make sure the meal is extra delicious.

Please also note that the Heaven’s Kitchen gang also has an outlet in Soi 51 next To Family Mart and the Raruk Market Hua Hin. I was told they do hot pot there, both Korean and Thai style, plus all the other popular items from their main restaurant. This is also a great place to have a beer on the weekend when the Raruk market really gets going.

Heaven’s Kitchen serves great German specialties too; so if that’s what you are hankering for, this is your place. Prices start at

Try Heaven’s Kitchen once and you will be sure to be back!

Heaven’s Kitchen Tel: 032 513 805

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

The Annual Gala Dinner of the Hua Hin Women’s Club

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his Event was held on the 5th of October at the Hilton Resort & Spa. Elegance, sophistication and beauty were the key words for the night.

It was the perfect event to look glamorous and take out of your closet your best sleek evening gown, cocktail dress or sexy short one. From Classic designs to trendy dresses, ladies, you all made sure to of being noticed.

BOLD ORNEMENTAL BLACK

It is not a secret that all-black is one of those non-colours that never really goes out of style and is the most sophisticated. Adding gold ornaments, sparkle stones, laces, and a sheer touch to suggest a bit of skin; we couldn’t think of a sexier, but classy, way to wear black for the event.

VIBRANT RED

Siren Alert!!! Inspired by a touch of Spain many of you showed off your passion for red. In any tones, any fabrics, wearing this colour that night proved how sophisticated you can be.

ELECTRIC BLUE

More edgy but ultra-feminine, some of you dared to embrace shades of bright royal blue tones, from see-through laces, to satin-finished and cobalt blue jewelry.

ICY GRAY SILVER

Sweet and Romantic with a mix of Icy-cool tones and a bit of silver shine for a subtle look. of nude-toned dresses, flirting with a bit of champagne and lilac tones. This was fashion NATURAL NUDE hit latest New-York Fashion week.

Along with the brighter colours, we were PRETTY PINK transported in a dream with an abundance The Girliest style and by far our favorite with

beautiful floral pomegranate pink tones.

In honour of Women, all men were wearing I love a rich print and the colours together! black tuxedos for the occasion. Our eyes Directly from the last catwalk in Milan for also caught this beautiful family with perfectly matching outfits; really lovely!

Spring-Summer 14.

Hua Hin Today’s Fashion Guide for the Next Season

ome of you may know, some other might S not, but Fashion Month is over, and we’ve finally had a minute to take in all the big themes for Spring 2014. We are going to share with you what will be the most suitable fashion to wear for the next Spring-Summer 2014 in Hua Hin and Cha –Am.

If you didn’t manage to keep a track of the fashion, fear not. Our eyes are everywhere from New York to London, Milan, and Paris to make sure you can keep up with trends without much effort. Even better there’s already trend items you can find in our town.... you don’t believe us... ? Then check this out.

NAUTICAL

TRENDS

TRIBAL & BOHEMIAN

Fashion’s favorite tribal influence, is now derived from the Aztec of Central Mexico. The ever so popular Aztec prints take centre stage once again, while the characteristic bright colored Aztec prints were realized at Mara Hoffman.

Look at our picture to the right... the outfit is from our own CICADA MARKET for under 500baht.

They have designas in skirts, long pants, and over floral and tribal patterns. You do not have to be rich to look good.

Taking inspiration from the French Riviera in the twenties, collections have a slick nautical theme perfect for ladies.

Once on the lips, now this colour has moved into the wardrobe. Orange is definitely the new-black for next Spring; as we spotted in all the Spring 2014 ready-to-wear shows. You will just have to find the perfect orange shades for your bag and shoes.

The opposite of body formed outfits or formfitting trousers and shorts, the slouchy silhouette is relaxed and, most importantly, comfortable. The pajama-like trouser is still here and long; Bermuda shorts with a built-in casual vibe were spotted frequently, too.

ORANGE ALL OVER

BERMUDA & CROPPED LOOSE PANTS to LARGE TROUSERS

CLASHING PRINTS TOGETHER

USE YOUR WORDS

This trend is not for the faint of heart... for those of you who enjoy the spotlight there’s no better way to get your daily dose of attention than wearing full-on electric colours!

A whole host of designers got literal; printed tops, jerseys, and even legs (yep!) with scrolling words. Whether it’s a straightforward message or something a bit more puzzling, one thing’s It’s all about putting two prints that most would for sure: it’s all there for us to read and figure out. never expect to see together...

Sweet and Fun... It’s just like a Candy Bar atmosphere... Mixing with Oranges tones....

And you will have the Must Look of the Season.

SPORTY

Athletic influences are manifested in hooded pullovers, zippers, mesh, ponchos, and shorts.

Designer crafted sportier wear with a modern eye and a sexier feel. The result is a look that wasn’t made for playing sports at all.

There was the classic, sharp-as-ice variety as well as some architectural tricks that require a lean-in to see whether it’s a true pleat or not.

Either way, there’s a look for everyone.

PINK FEVER

Crisp clean whites offset with navy adding to the ‘by-the-seaside’ feel of the collection.

More like the feeling of 90’s, with a minimalist sporty silhouette found in most of the collections at Paris, New York, London and Milan. Casual play is not only reserved for sporty labels we see now courtiers are also working their charm into sporty apparels. The use of cycling shorts is very prominent and an interesting styling trick for short dresses. Sweat pants and jumpers are can create a casual yet chic ensemble. The shorts were seen at Mugler, while Mouret put his boxy-shouldered jackets right in centre focus. Micheal Kors is all about the scuba suits type apparel.

at the women’s wardrobe. The major trend on just about every runway is men’s wear inspired by black and white looks. Colour-blocking and graphic prints with classic black and white color trends are in!

SHAPES IN TREND

CROP TOPS

This trend is just appearing more after its introduction last year. It’s like we’re all back in Dusting yourself off with some mineral shades the 80’s showing off our midriffs but in a more will bring the outfit to a higher level... metallic sleek yet fun way. colors are no longer saved just for the nights Below is an Easy DIY crop top with Wording. out, you can wear them during the day too... it’s Midsections were out on display this Fashion Follow us and Express yourself.

Week, exposing the entire stomach or just a just a matter of balance. tempter. We think it is time to renew your gym membership, and get your midriff into shape for next summer, trust us! It is never too late; don’t BLACK & WHITE use a crop top up over a muffin belly Whether shown on the runway as a crop top, ASSEMETRICAL and PLEATED SKIRTS striped skirt, suit, coat, colour-blocking print, or head scarf one things for sure, designers can’t get enough of the classic black and white combo. Black and white is definitely a trend that has carried over from season to season and still as strong as ever. And it doesn’t stop METALLICS

TRENDY COLOURS

Light and easy, with a natural movement that can’t help but be graceful, all the pleats heading down Paris’s runway definitely made us smile.

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

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LOY KRATHONG - Some Fashion Tips

oy Krathong festival is called the “most romantic” holiday in Thailand; a chance to celebrate love with your other half.

Prepare yourself in the best way to make this night memorable with you beloved one.

I’m suggesting you, to pamper yourself or with your friends, some of you might opt for an appointment to the hairdresser, or the nail salon.

For others you will start the morning cocooning at home and prepare this homemade hair mask to apply on your hair....

HOMEMADE HAIR MASK

Remember, you can have the perfect outfit and beautiful makeup, but if your hair doesn’t look right it can throw the entire look. Getting a hair treatment at a salon can be pricey, follow our tips below and see how you can create a hair mask at home designed perfectly for your hair issue!

Creating a mask at home isn’t as difficult as it sounds. Most of the ingredients are things lying around your kitchen anyway and you’ll be saving money too. These five DIY hair mask ideas are simple to make and will take no more than 30 minutes of your time:

Whether it’s on your lips, nails, eyes, or cheeks, this vibrant look will be rockin’ under the lanterns’ light. An easy way to wear this trend is to match it with a basic neutral beige eye-shadow with just some black eyeliner – this will allow a focus on your bold lips.

this season is no different.

Little Black Dress Facts: Always in style: a kneeish length (right above, at or below) sleeveless.

Don’t hesitate to pick one with the back with lace details or fishnet mesh cut out. Feel free to embellish the look with sparkly earrings, huge A lot of you are afraid of rockin’ red lips, so go for necklace, bag and cover-up because the simple Orange!! With a great variety of shades, we are black dress carries accessories well. sure you will find the perfect one to flatter any skin Again from Market village some dress ideas: tones.

1- “Pansuk” Shop on 1st floor.

Here are a few of our tips to keep in mind when Long dress white top in chiffon and bottom in you choose your colour tone: black jersey 590 Baht Shorts one 490 Baht 1. Consider Your Skin Tone True orange shades look great on blondes and women with caramel-colored skin or darker, but medium and olive skin tones should opt for corals and reddish oranges.

2- “D design” Booth on Ground floor.

Short and maxi dress in jersey under a 1000 Baht

When sporting a melon mouth it’s best to keep the rest of your look subtle. Avoid colourful shadows and opt for natural lips or a simple swipe of your favorite mascara.

4- “CPS Chaps” at the main entrance on The Right.

A Long dress with sexy back in Jersey for 2190 Baht

2. Keep It Simple A Mask to Fight Frizz!

What you’ll need: 1/2 cup of yogurt 1/2 cup of honey 1 tbsp of almond oil

Mix the three ingredients together and apply all over your hair. Leave it in for 20 minutes and then rinse off with a shampoo. Your frizz will be under control if you do this at least once a month.

A Mask to Repair!

What you’ll need: 1 egg 1 banana 2 tbsp of honey 1/2 avocado 3 tbsp of virgin olive oil 3 tbsp of butter

Mash the banana, egg and avocado together.

Once you have a smooth mixture, stir in the butter, honey and olive oil. Apply it all over your hair and let it sit for 20 minutes before rinsing. You will be left with revived, healthy-looking hair.

A Mask to Shine it up!

What you’ll need: 3 tbsp of olive oil 1/2 cup of coconut milk 1 avocado

3. Go Matte

Get the bold impact by opting for a matte lip look.

We made a trip to Market Village and here the top 5 we found: from the lowest cost to the most expensive.

5- “Jaspal” at the main entrance on The Left.

A lot of trendy choice around 2290 Baht

The choice of hairdo, trendy simple and romantic...

1- In Boost SEVENTEEN 115 Baht Promotion instead of 230baht Playful orange 2- In “Cutie Delight” Beauty buffet booth Gino Mc Cray 175 Baht 04 Oranda

3- In Watson

By Maybelline 199 Baht Promotion at the moment instead of 299 Baht BoldMATTE Mat 3 (this is my favorite one personally) Mat 4 (is more reddish) 4- In Boost Catrice 215 Baht Ultimate colour 060

5- In Boost Mash up the avocado until it’s smooth then add L’Oreal the coconut milk and olive oil. Once everything 399 Baht is mixed together heat it up in the microwave for Color riche - wild tango C411 20 seconds. Apply all over your hair and after 30 minutes wash it out.

A Mask to Fight Oily Hair!

What you’ll need: 5 tbsp of plain yogurt 1 tbsp of baking soda 1 tbsp of lemon juice

Mix the three ingredients together and rub all over your hair focusing on the roots. After 30 minutes rinse off. If your hair is extra oily try doing this mask once a week.

3- “Majung” on Ground Floor.

Short dress and jumpsuit with lace details under 1290 Baht

SMALL BRAIDS AROUND THE HEAD

Once the treatment is done and washed-off, dry your hair and follow our easy hairstyle by choosing small braids, and position them on the back, front, side, centre: it doesn’t matter. For a date night-out; braid your way with neatly plaits, from each side of your head. This is an easy and great way to spice up your hair. It works perfectly with either straight hair, curly, long hair or short (about shoulders length).

What You Will Need Bobby pins.

Tiny rubber bands transparent or matching your hair colour.

Step 1. Draw a line with your finger upwards right above your ear and split your hair in half. Take a chunk of hair in a circle about as thick as you want your braid to be from just behind your ear and braid it up!

A LITTLE BLACK DRESS

While your mask is left on your hair, you can start taking care of your make-up....And The must Since Coco Chanel introduced it in 1926, the little have in your make-up drawer is The Tangerine black dress has become the piece of timeless fashion. It is the answer to “What should I wear lipstick.... tonight?, I have nothing to wear!!!” The little black TANGERINE LIPSTICK dress has even represents an ideal of a perfectly Embrace this festival of lights with “Orange/ simple, but yet sexy and sophisticated. Through Tangerine” on your lips. Without a winter season the years, the little black dress has undergone in Thailand, let’s extend this summer beauty trend. hemline, shoulder, strap and fabric variations and

Step 2. Pull the braid over to the other side of your head and secure right above your ear with a bobby pin or two. Repeat the process in step 1 on the other side of your head.

Tease your hair a bit on the high of your head for more volume if you like, straighten a little, or finish off with a few freshly curled locks, if you leave them down, or even finished it up with a low bun with the rest of your hair.

You’re good to go!!

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Events & Promotion

Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Events & Promotion

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

SOLVING WASTEWATER PROBLEMS IN KHAO TAO

The Biological Solution

ANANTARA – ASIA’S LEADING GREEN RESORT

Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas scooped multiple awards at the World Travel Awards Asia & Australasia which took place in Dubai on October 1st. Anantara Lawana in Koh Samui was named Asia’s Most Romantic Resort, Anantara Hua Hin was awarded Asia’s Leading Green Resort, and Anantara Bangkok Sathorn was named as Thailand’s Leading Lifestyle Hotel. In addition, Mr. William E. Heinecke, Chairman and Chief Executive of Minor Hotel Group, Anantara’s he Prachuab Khirikhan Governor, the Hia Hin “The wastewater treatment at Ban Khao Tao’s reservoir owning company, was honoured as Asia’s Municipality, Department of Irrigation and MRO was proved more environmentally friendly and cheaper Leading Travel Personality.

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Asia Co. Ltd. has recently monitored progress in solving wastewater problems at Ban Khao Tao’s reservoir. This project is a Royal initiative of His Majesty the King for the development and improvement of local communities.

than using foreign modern technology,” said Mr. Weera. “As the Governor of Prachuab Khirikhan with responsibility for sub-districts and district areas in the Province, I would like to encourage using the EM Balls to solve wastewater problems.

resources for local communities. The reservoir is currently suffering from wastewater nearby released from nearby townhouses. To make things worse, some local people are farming fish there despite the critical condition of the water in the reservoir.

have been exported to over 150 countries worldwide.

The prestigious awards ceremony was attended by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum and was hosted at Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, the most recent addition to the Anantara The Governor Mr. Weera Sriwattanatrakul, commented The advisor of MRO Asia Mrs. Somlak Pongdit said that fold, which opened in September marking that the Khao Tao reservoir was built 30 years ago the EM Balls was produced by Thai people . Initiated the upscale Asian operator’s first opening under His Majesty’s project that aims to ensure water 10 years ago by Gen. Pichet Wisaijon, the EM Balls in Dubai.

A solution which is in an environmentally friendly has been trialled using EM Balls, a biodegradable substance in the form of a ball and liquid. The EM Balls transform wastewater into alkaline and in a liquid form, when sprayed on the water surface, makes wastewater clear and reduces bad smell. This kind of natural and biological way to treat wastewater is effective because it leaves nothing toxic or chemically dangerous in the water after the treatment.

In the form of a ball costing only 15 Baht each, the “effective micro-organism“ (EM) balls comprise of mud mixed with micro-organisms that have regenerative qualities. In liquid form this costs costing 90 Baht a litre. The liquid has undergone a fermentation process of the ingredients until it becomes brown. Both can be used in private and public areas and are becoming famous in Thailand as the country is now concerned with tackling environmental problems with biological and biodegradable substances. The EM Balls are another example of a sustainable solution because of they are environmentally friendly, low cost and provide effective results.

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With its 14 acres of luxuriantly landscaped gardens and lagoon pools, Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa has received ‘Asia’s Leading Green Resort’.

Echoing the design of an ancient Thai village, the resort features 187 garden and sea-view guest rooms and suites, plus a range of facilities and activities to suite every traveller, including meeting facilities, seven restaurants and bars, an awardwinning Anantara Spa, a fitness centre, tennis courts and two infinity-edge pools.

Its renowned tropical gardens were the creation of globally acclaimed landscape designer Bill Bensley who describes the results as “biologically interesting by making five distinct sub-gardens; the white garden, the heliconia garden, the red garden, the palm garden and the yellow garden”.

SUPPORT FOR HUA HIN HOSPITAL

Nuns from Wat Suk Samran Buddhist Monastery in Hua Hin, Phathu Huadhin and Patjama Sathukan donated 50,000 Baht cash to the Hua Hin Hospital Director M.D. Niran Jantrakul on 11th October 3013. The donation will assist in the construction of a new Hua Hin Hospital.

TRADITIONAL THAI MASSAGE – Make Sure It Is Traditional!

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A Thai Buddhist prayer offered by the masseur -‘We pray for the one we touch, that they will be happy and illness will be released from them.’

espite many who claim that traditional Thai massage is nothing but pure hellish pain, there are ways you can enjoy this centuries old tradition.

Traditional Thai Massage, also called Thai Yoga Therapy, Nuad phaen boran or Nuat Thai, is a therapeutic technique that dates back thousands of years. Its precise origins are unknown, but practitioners traditionally trace their lineage, also known as Shivago, who was a personal physician to the Sangha, a friend and physician to the Buddha and renowned as a healer in Buddhist tradition.

Traditional Thai medicine is a natural, holistic approach to health and well-being, developed over thousands of years, which includes proper nutrition, physical exercise, the use of medicinal herbs and therapeutic massage. Traditional Thai medicine is not only concerned with curing diseases and ailments: its primary goal is maintaining health and well-being, as ancient Thais believed that “the absence of illness is the best blessing”. The medical knowledge developed by Thai people through many generations has come to be known as the ancient wisdom of Thailand.

most likely offers “Traditional Thai Massage”.

You may also want to stick with establishments where massage in progress is visible. That is you can see the massage cubicles from the entrance and you are not being taken upstairs to an unknown destination. Recommendations from those who have their favourite masseurs are also worth following; just ask about their personal experiences.

herself and the client. This compassionate state of being is termed “metta”, which usually translates as “loving kindness”.

Massage is Healthy for the Body

Visions of pointy elbows and knees poking into one’s body are usually the typical image of “traditional Thai massage”. While this type of massage does use those sharp-angled body parts, fans will be quick to point out that the massage itself is actually very pleasurable and healthy. Traditional Thai massage improves blood circulation, relaxes muscles, increases alertness Diagrams inscribed on the walls at the temple of and flushes out toxins from the body.

Wat Po in Bangkok illustrate one of the fundamental principles of traditional Thai medicine: that energy Newcomers to traditional Thai massage might be flows through the body along ten major channels, intimidated by what may seem as brutal bodyor sen lines. If an obstruction occurs in any of pounding torture, but there are actually ways to these channels it is believed that pain or disease train oneself to enjoy and get used to it. Be careful, results. In this sense, traditional Thai medicine is though, because it can be addictive! similar to many other ancient healing systems, It’s All In The Name which believe that illnesses are caused by an imbalance or obstruction within the individual, or What newcomers must understand first is that by an imbalance between an individual and his in Thailand, there are two different types of “Thai Massage”. Those who are after the wholesome, environment. traditional Thai massage should make sure that Ancient Thais treated a number of ailments by the massage shop does provide “Traditional Thai using massage to restore the flow of energy Massage”. In other words, the word “traditional” throughout the body. Traditional Thai massage is must be present on the menu. Plain “Thai a deep, full-body treatment, which includes both Massage” (without the word “traditional”) may be stretching of the joints and muscles and applied another, more questionable kind of massage. pressure to the sen lines.

Other ways to check whether a massage shop The Buddhist spiritual practices associated with sells “Traditional Thai Massage” or the raunchier Thai massage cultivate humility, awareness, and “Thai Massage” is to survey the establishment’s concentration in the healer designed to bring the employees. If they are mostly older (30-40-50 practitioner to a deeper level of awareness of year-olds), average-looking women, then the shop

a masseuse is slim and petite). A newbie might have to demonstrate the right massages pressure to the masseuse, but this is actually quite easy to achieve, based on the newbie’s vocal levels.

A good, firm pressure might be manifested as a strong, noisy exhalation of the customer, while any stronger and a whimper or some other expression of pain may occur. Luckily, most experienced masseuses are extremely adept in adjusting their massage pressure based on their Preparation For A Traditional Thai Massage customers’ vocal feedback. Remember the Thai After one establishes the fact that a shop word for pain is ‘Jep’, so don’t be afraid to use it offers the traditional kind of Thai massage, a if necessary! masseuse will usually arrange for the customer’s feet to be washed. Some customers might feel To completely enjoy traditional Thai massage, a uncomfortable with the idea of someone else customer should completely relax all muscles and washing their feet, but feet-washing is mandatory trust the masseuse’s skill. It is not advisable to tense because the masseuse will actually massage the any muscles during a traditional Thai massage, as whole body, including the feet. Having a customer this will result in feeling ticklish (especially when with sweaty or smelly feet would result in an the feet, legs or armpits are being massaged) or unpleasant experience for both the customer and outright pain. Some might be shocked when the masseuse steps on their thighs or back while lying the masseuse. spread eagle on the mattress, but rest assured, The customer may also be asked to change this is actually the typical process of a traditional into loose-fitting cotton pyjamas. Again, this is Thai massage (thus the need to wear the pajamas to ensure that the massage experience will be mentioned above). comfortable and pleasurable. The cotton pyjamas serve two kinds of purpose: one is to absorb One useful point to remember is: exhale when sweat (because body temperature will most likely pressure is applied and inhale when pressure is rise during a traditional Thai massage), and two released. This will also coordinate breathing with is to keep customer’s modesty, as the body will the massage rhythm and create a very soothing, be bent and twisted into unimaginable positions pleasurable feeling for both masseuse and customer. which can cause some prudes to blush.

Customers should not expect any massage oils Is it not advisable to fall asleep during a traditional to be used for traditional Thai massage. There Thai massage, as an unconscious brain will fail to are two reasons for this: the first one is that the register the massage’s pressure, thus negating its weather in Thailand is usually hot and humid, healthy benefits. The rule of thumb should be: if therefore it is not advisable to slather oil all over one is falling asleep during a Thai traditional Thai the body, unless one wants to develop body massage, it means the masseuse is not pounding, acne. The second reason is that traditional Thai twisting, and kneading hard enough to maintain massage needs strong grip and pressure to consciousness, improve blood circulation and induce sweating, therefore any kinds of massage promote sweating (in order to flush out toxins).

oil will actually hinder the masseuse’s ability to What to Feel After A Traditional Thai Massage achieve traction.

Customers will usually feel alert after a traditional What To Do During the Traditional Thai Thai massage, not groggy. The body and legs Massage will feel light, and the shoulders are less tense. It Most traditional Thai masseuses have incredible is safe to say that having regular traditional Thai grip strength; irregardless of their body size massages will keep one healthy and happy in the and muscle mass (so do not underestimate if long run.

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

BECOMING A BUDDHIST MONK – What’s It All About?

You may have seen groups of Thai people taking over the road with much dancing in a party atmosphere and a young man dressed in white being carried on a mobile platform looking a little nervous. He’ll soon be a new monk.

Being invited to a Monk Ordination Ceremony in Thailand is a privilege and indicates that you have gained some respect from the family. It’s an opportunity to learn more about Thai culture and Buddhism. Some information about the ceremony and what you may expect will be useful.

This is what it is all about!

The Importance of Being a Monk for Thai Men Most men in Thailand will eventually become a monk. Not as long-term as it would be in the West, being a monk in Thailand can be as short as for only a day or as long as the rest of the man’s life. Most Thai men fall in between. A week, a few weeks or a month or two is quite common with most Thai businesses allowing unpaid leave so a Thai man can become a monk.

Becoming a monk for a man in Thailand shows his commitment to his Buddhist faith. It also is usually a precursor to marriage, with some families refusing to allow their daughter to marry a man who hasn’t been one. Deciding to join the brotherhood at the local temple helps to avoid problems with a bride-to-be’s family.

What About Thai Women?

Women in Thailand who want to enter the temple are called mae chi or mae ji, a term of unknown origin. They may shave their heads, take vows and wear traditional robes which are white (not saffron) in colour. However they have no official status and are not ordained. There is also no ceremonial aspect comparable with the process of men entering monkhood. They are neither clergy nor laypeople or they are both, depending on circumstances.

Because giving alms to mae chi doesn’t confer the same merit as giving alms to monks, Thai laypeople give the mae chi much less support.

Since they are not ordained, the mae chi may not teach or perform rituals. Many Thai women enter the temple for short periods of time (no head shaving required) especially when they are looking for the time and space to meditate on difficult personal circumstances to help them regain their composure

and peace of mind.

In modern times there has been debate about the status of women in Buddhist temple life. This remains as a controversial subject within Thai society.

Before Ordination into Thai Monkhood There is likely to be a big party prior to the ordination ceremonies, perhaps something akin to a 21st birthday party of a young man in Western countries. Before the day of ordination, the prospective monk visits all family members to ask their forgiveness for past misdeeds, in order to sever the bonds of human relationships.

On the eve of the ordination, usually at home, a ceremony is held in which he has his eyebrows and head ritually shaved. The first few locks are cut off by his parents, grandparents and other family members according to rank. This ritual shaving is a form of denial of sexuality and vanity.

Now comes the donning of the white robes and the Tham Kwan Nak ceremony. This is conducted by an expert in these affairs and for approximately two hours or so he will recite verses recounting the sufferings endured by the parents in raising their child. After this comes the feasting, the young man’s last indulgence before he renounces the world of the flesh and embraces the austere life of a monk.

What Does the Ordination Ceremony Entail?

Of course, many Thai villages and towns have slightly different ordination ceremonies, depending on the temple the young man is joining however there are some things generally included in all ceremonies.

On ordination day there will be a procession to the Temple. This is the most public part of the ceremony with friends and family (including Mum and Dad) dancing and celebrating as they slowly move towards the destination. There may be an amplified band (battery powered) playing somewhat raucous Thai music and other traditional musical instruments amongst the followers.

Traffic will give way with well-wishers joining in along the route.

A variety of vehicles can be used to carry the person including open carts, modern motor vehicles or even an elephants!

The novice monk is then carried to the temple on the shoulders of his friends where they progress around the temple three times, scattering coins in a symbolic gesture of renouncing material possessions.

The young man’s father leads his son into the temple where, in front of the assembled monks, he presents his son with a saffron robe. Having prostrated himself before the monks and paid his respects, the candidate now vows to observe the 10 basic vows of the novice monk – the fundamental precepts that all Buddhists should follow.

One of the monks will ask him, in Pali (that’s the language of the Thai temple), a series of questions that he must answer correctly in order to be accepted as a full novice monk. The questions may include things like “Do you have leprosy?” (correct answer “No”), “Are you at least 20 years old?” and “Are you human?”

If he answers all the questions correctly, the monk goes back to

the other waiting monks to say he has answered correctly and ask the abbot for permission to accept him. Once accepted, the young man is now a novice monk or Phra (meaning Father) and his family crawl to him on their knees to give him offerings of things he will need while he living at the temple.

You’ll hear a lot of chanting in the Pali language, the young man will give offerings to the monks, then he will be taken to the back of the temple where he’ll change into the saffron orange robes of a monk and given an alms bowl (the bowl the monk uses every morning to ask people in the community for food).

What Happens After the Ordination Ceremony?

Although a solemn occasion, Thais also love to have fun. Once their loved one is officially a monk, one by one or in groups, members of his family and friends will sit in front of him to have their photos taken with the new monk. This will continue until everyone has had their photos taken. Everyone except the monk is allowed to smile for the photos.

Lunch is served but, as Buddhist monks must finish eating for the day before 12 Noon, the monks and the new monk are served first while the rest of the gathering waits. Only when all the monks have finished eating and left to go back to the temple for daily chores can everyone else eat. Expect a huge, celebratory meal with lots of courses, loud Thai traditional music and other entertainment.

What Should You Wear or Take To an Ordination Ceremony?

Thais are very relaxed so the dress code is simple. You can wear jeans, pants, a dress, a skirt, anything that’s comfortable. The only things you should not wear are shorts, very short sleeved or sleeveless shirts and anything that is black. Black is the color for funerals, so Thais do not wear it for the temple at any other time, particularly for special occasions. Bright colours however are fine.

As far as taking something to the ordination ceremony, for most special occasions in Thailand, family and friends give a gift of money. Put a few hundred baht in an envelope with your name on the front and hand it to the mother or father of the man who is going to be a monk. The monk ordination ceremony is extremely expensive, so the money is used to help pay for the cost.

Thai people love to have fun so even on solemn occasions you’ll still have a relaxing and fun time. If you do anything wrong, don’t worry. If it’s a genuine mistake, Thais will always make allowances and will probably laugh right along with you. You’ll be encouraged to join in the dancing, regardless of your ‘style’, why not? The more involved you are, the more the family will appreciate it. Most importantly, enjoy the unique experience and take lots of photos. You’re allowed to take them at any time during the ceremony.

The Daily Life of a Thai Monk The Sangha World in Thailand consists of about 200,000 monks and 85,000 novices at most times of the year. However, these numbers increase during the Buddhist ‘lent’ to 300,000 and 100,000 novices. Young boys may become novices at any age, but a man cannot become a monk until he reaches the age of twenty. He can then remain a monk for as long as he wishes,

even for just one day. Three months is more usual, although some choose to remain in monkhood for the rest of their lives.

There are over 29,000 temples in Thailand and the daily routine of the monks in all of them is pretty much the same.

4.00 am - The monks wake up and meditate for one hour, followed by one hour of chanting.

6.00 am - The monks walk barefoot around the neighbourhood while the local people make merit by offering them food.

8.00 am - Returning to the temple, the monks sit together to eat breakfast, then make a blessing for world peace.

Before 12.00 noon - Some monks choose to eat a light lunch at this time. This is the last solid food they are allowed to consume until sunrise the following morning.

1.00 pm - Classes in Buddhist teaching begin. Some monks may attend school outside the temple.

6.00 pm - A two-hour session of meditation and prayer begins.

8.00 pm - The monks retire to do homework.

Besides these duties, all monks are given specific roles to play in the day-to-day running and maintenance of the temple and its surroundings.

After being in the monkhood for several years and demonstrating extreme dedication to both social work and spiritual study, a monk can be promoted gradually until he reaches the Sangha Supreme Council; the governing body presided over by the Supreme Patriarch.

All monks must follow 227 strict precepts or rules of conduct, many of which concern his relations with members of the opposite sex. When a monk is ordained he is said to be reborn into a new life and the past no longer counts - not even if he was married. Women are forbidden to touch monks and should not even stay alone in the same room as a monk. If a woman wishes to offer an object to a monk, it must pass through a third medium, such as a piece of cloth. Monks always carry a piece of cloth for this purpose. The monk will lay the cloth on the ground or table, holding on to one end. The woman places the offering on the cloth and the monk then draws it away.

Thai monks can be seen wearing various shades of robes, from dark brown to the familiar brilliant saffron. There are no rules, but the darker shades are preferred by monks in the Dharmmayuth sect and Thu-dong or forest monks.

All ordination ceremonies are conducted in much the same fashion with one or two variations depending on area and the money available for the ceremonies. In the northern areas, around Mae Hong Son, the Shan people have mass ordinations held over two or three days accompanied by spectacular ceremonies.

Ordination is one of the most important events in the life of Thai men, marking the transition from youth to adulthood. This period is dedicated to Buddha and during this time, nothing is allowed to interfere with the gaining of merit. When he returns to the real world, he can take up his life as before but in accordance with the teachings of the Lord Buddha.

LOY KRATHONG – ‘Float Away All Your Troubles’ Loy Krathong is a unique Thai festival when you can send your bad luck, guilt, negativity and pretty much everything rotten about your life down the river or out to sea.

Full Moon - Sunday evening, 17th November.

‘November full moon shines, Loy Krathong, Loy Krathong, and the water’s high in the river and local klong, Loy Loy Krathong, Loy Loy Krathong, Loy Krathong is here and everybody’s full of cheer, We’re together at the klong, Each one with his krathong, As we push away we pray, We can see a better day.’

T

he tradition of Loy Krathong has been observed in Thailand for no less than 700 years since the Sukhothai period (1238 - 1438). It is based on a Hindu tradition of thanking the Water Gods for the waters (Pra Mae Khongkha) or as homage to the legendary footprint the Buddha left on the bank of the River Narmada in India.

One year, a beautiful woman called Noppamas, who was the chief royal consort, made some special lanterns for the festival. She made them from banana leaves and shaped them like lotus flowers. The King was impressed and announced that Krathongs would be floated on the water every year.

Loy (float) Krathong (container) occurs on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar, which is November 17th this year. The full moon shining on waterways which are flooded after the rainy season makes this one of the most beautiful and popular festivals in Thailand.

During the evening, many people will go to their local klong (canal) or river to float their Krathongs.

They believe this will bring them good luck and is a symbolic way of letting go of all grudges, anger,

(An English translation of an old Thai children’s song)

and negative thoughts so they can start their life fresh on a better foot.

Krathongs contain a flower, a candle and three incense sticks which are lit before being placed on the water. In the old days people also trim their nails and put a bit of hair in the Krathong, wishing that it will take the bad luck and illness away. A few added coins may appease the great water gods. The people usually make a wish at the same time. Some people believe that if the candle remains burning until the Krathong is out of sight then their wish will come true. Alternatively couples release one Krathong each, hoping they and I took a vow. After, I played fire crackers with will float away together, a sign of everlasting love. my brother. Then, we went to watch the Miss Noppamas Competition.”

By the end of the evening, there are hundreds of flickering lights bobbing up and down on the Sunatee: “Loy Krathong means to float a banana water. Quite often there are also firework displays leaf cup on water. We do this to ask Mother of as well as shows. Overall it is a really memorable Water to forgive us for polluting the water. On Loy evening. On the beach, a more modern trend is to Krathong Day there is a full moon in the sky and release flying lanterns and a pretty impressive sky there is full water in the river. We float our krathong in the river with our parents. On Loy Krathong Day can be seen at night. we feel very happy.”

The memory of that woman who made the first Krathong is often remembered in beauty Sasiprapa: “Yesterday was Loy Krathong Day. contests called “The Noppamas Queen I made a krathong with my aunt. I used banana leaves to make my krathong. I decorated my Contest”. krathong with flowers. I played fire crackers with Around Hua Hin and Cha – Am there will be plenty my brother. I then put 1 baht in my krathong. of eating and partying at local venues. Just head I lighted the candle and incense sticks and as I for the beaches and waterways to be involved. floated it on the river I made a vow.”

The most popular locations for local people is where a waterway flows into the sea. Krathongs Make Your Own Krathong then start their journey in the waterway before You will find Krathongs for sale by vendors heading out to the open ocean. wherever there is water. However for the personal What the Kids Say About Loy Krathong

Wararat: “On Loy krathong Day the moon was full in the sky. I made a krathong to float on the river.

Then my family went to the river by motorcycle. I saw many people come to float their krathongs on the river to thank the Mother of Water. I lighted the incense sticks and candle in my krathong

trunk is recommended because it easily serves as the Krathong’s natural floating base.

2. Attach some leaves of banana around the sliced banana trunk with the leaves are pointing upward. Use small pins to hold the leaves into place.

3. Attach another layer of banana leaves but this time attach the leaves over the joins of the first layer.

4. Trim the lower parts of the banana leaves so that they are level with the base of the sliced banana trunk.

5. Beautify your Krathong with flowers until only a small space is left to place a candle and other items.

7. Finish the Krathong by placing a small candle, three incense sticks and some coins on the base.

Betel nuts are optional additions. The candle stick will serve as a light as the ceremony is celebrated at night. Candles and incense sticks are used to drive away bad spirits and coins symbolise prosperity. Betel nuts serve as food offering to the touch and especially for children, making your own gods. You can add your own personal ‘symbols’ results in the festival being even more memorable. in keeping with the spirit of the occasion.

You will need access to a ‘slice’ of a banana trunk for authenticity, but any base that is stable and Finally set alight the candle and incense sticks and set it free on the water. Think about letting go floats will work. of any anger, grudges and other negative feelings.

1. Cut a slice of banana trunk (around 20 to 30 mm A great start to the new season to come! thick) – this will be the Krathong’s base. Banana

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

“Now it’s time to find your ideal property”

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

CIVIL AVIATION TRAINING CENTRE Learning to Fly in Hua Hin Basic Requirements: Completion of High School Education Good command of written and spoken English Aptitude in mathematics and physical sciences Minimum 18 years of age (no maximum) Pass the Aviation Medical examinations (physical and psychological)

Alongside the Hu Hin Airport there are a separate series of buildings operated by the Civil Aviation Training Centre (CATC). This is a State enterprise under the Thailand Government Ministry of Transport responsible for training and development of aviation human resources, aircraft maintenance services and other aircraft related resources.

related to range of industry requirements including aircraft maintenance engineering, communications maintenance, aircraft instruments and commercial pilot licencing (aeroplane or helicopter).

PRIVATE PILOT LICENCING

Learning to fly is a frequent item on many people’s ‘bucket list’ that may be in reach for The CATC in Hua Hin is one of three Centres Hua Hin residents as private aeroplane and in Thailand. The Centre is Bangkok has helicopter licencing is available at the Hua Hin administrative and ground - based training CATC. responsibilities with Hua Hin being the country’s main flight training and aircraft maintenance There’s a process to follow for applications centre. Flight training programs are also which will include lodging an application in person in Bangkok and some requirements available at Khon Kaen Airport. before you start but if you are really eager it’s At CATC Hua Hin you will find programs possible.

Duration and Content: 20 weeks duration Ground training 154 hours Flight training 45 hours Current Cost: 386,000 THB (subject to WHAT ABOUT ‘JOY’ RIDES? amendment) The private pilot’s licence will be fully It’s not widely known that joy rides through the accredited by the Thailand Government and resources of the CATC are on offer. This has the International Civil Aviation Organisation never been developed as a ‘commercial’ or a tourist attraction and begs the question – why (ICAO) that will be recognised worldwide. not?

There are currently some 14 instructors at the Centre and some 90 students in a variety of As an example a one hour flight over Sam Roi Yot, then heading inland and North over courses and stages of their training.

Kaeng Krachan National Park and following the You are likely to meet Captain Chinnakrit coastline back over Cha – Am back to Hua Hin. Munchawna, the Acting Director of The Flight This has the potential to be a popular attraction Training Division. He has a background of pilot for those to see the countryside (and coastline) and instructor training in both the Royal Thai with a bird’s eye view.

Airforce and Army and had logged some 4,500 hours flying before joining the ACATC nine years Hua Hin & Cha-Am Today has been invited to ago. His experience now adds up to over 8,000 take a ‘joy ride test flight’ and we will report on hours flying. The Captain introduced us to the this adventure in the next edition! flight simulation ‘machines’ as well as a tour of www.catc.or.th the other CATC facilities, very impressive and professional.

Everyday People - Fixing Your Teeth Doesn’t Equate to Pain

I had the great pleasure of meeting sisters Dr Varissara Naowrungroj and Khun Urai Playsuwan that own the chain of Nadpob Clinic’s in Hua Hin. They have two outlets in Hua Hin, at the Colonnade Mall which was opened some 3 years ago and their latest “baby” Nadpob Dental Clinic at Soi 102.

I have a morbid fear of dentist to the point were I used to pretend that I had a severe cough in the hopes of skipping the appointment. But this is a dental office with the difference; two lovely sisters, Khun Urai running the business side and Dr Varissara being a qualified dentist with many years of experience. Dr. Varissara believes that dentistry should be done gently in a relaxing atmosphere. DR. Varissara does all kinds of dentistry but specialises is implants, bridge work, cosmetic dentistry and braces.

SAFETY FIRST AT SHERATON HUA HIN RESORT & SPA

The dental premises at Soi 102 are beautiful decorated with a great emphasis on relaxation in the form of a small garden visible from the dentist chair and many other homely yet classy touches.

The sisters are very serious about the hygiene and high technology aspect of their business. They even have a separate room for dental implants, which has been built to maximum hygiene standards which are so important for this kind of work. The dental surgery has a dedicated X Ray machine (no need to move from you chair to have a small X Ray) as well as a full scale X Ray machine in another dedicated room; impressive facilities and standards to say the least.

The Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa in cooperation with the Cha-Am Fire Brigade, recently organised the “2013 Annual Fire Drill and Fire Evacuation Practice Training” to maintain a high standard of fire precaution and to be ready to deal promptly with fire emergencies.

The training was attended by Sitthirat Hothongkam, Hotel Manager and many Sheraton Hua Hin staff receiving professional instruction delivered by the firemen team of Cha Am. The purpose of the drill was to provide tactical experience, sufficient knowledge and training as well as to empower everyone to calmly face and handle fire incidents that may arise.

Staff at the Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa take pride in their work and their community. They have a The sister are originally from Bangkok but Khun strong commitment to excellence in workplace safety as well as delivering the best services to exceed Urai moved from Bangkok 18 years when she guests’ expectations. graduated from Hotel Management School because she found Hua Hin to be so beautiful plus Golf Citizen Open Series Thailand Grand Final Qualifiers the proximity to the sea and fresh air.

Three lucky players qualify for the GOLF CITIZEN Open Series Thailand Grand Final

The DR. Varissara graduated from Dentistry school in Bangkok and did her initial years of work in North East Thailand and Bangkok. She still returns to North East Thailand to do charitable work by donating her time as a dentist in poorer towns and villages. Incidentally DR. Varissara wanted to become a dentist because she suffered from many cavities as a child so she wanted to become a dentist to help others by creating a place where people could receive treatment in a comfortable and cozy atmosphere.

I asked how DR. Varissara also ended up moving to Hua Hin, the answer was that she used to visit her sister Khun Urai in Hua Hin and fell in love with it. Three years ago they set up business together.

Khun Urai says she doesn’t have much free time but her dentist sister likes to swim, be involved in charity work (in the form of dentistry in poorer areas) and to visit the gym.

The Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin held its second qualifying round of the www.golfcitizen.com Open Series Thailand on Saturday October 12th. All players registered to play on www.golfcitizen.com in order to qualify for the Open Series Thailand Grand Final which will be held at Banyan Golf Club on December 14th. Three places were on offer during the event.

The Stableford format was played off the Blue Tees for men & lengthened Red tees for ladies. The top three placed players on the day have now been invited to participate in the Grand Final, where 3 lucky players will win a once in a lifetime prize of a VIP trip to Dubai to attend the 25th Anniversary Omega Dubai Desert Classic & to play alongside a European Tour Pro in the official Pro- Am. The top Three Players Where: Steve Brighton (42 points) Ampika Sangwichai (38 points) Alan Thomas (35 points) Banyan Golf Club’s Director of Operations, Stuart Daly commented, “ it’s great to see these players in a with a chance to win at the Grand Final. Khun Ampika was a last minute sign up for the event, and I’m sure she is delighted to be in the Grand Final. Both Steve and Alan both played great golf and Alan scraped in with a back 9 countback. I know than many others who failed to qualify today will be joining the forthcoming events to secure their places in the December Grand Final. After all, how often do you get the chance to win prize like these?”

Visit & register on www.golfcitizen.com for details on the next qualifying events and special offers on Tee Times.

Just in case you are in the market for new teeth or shall we say improved teeth, implants can cost anything from 55,000-75,000 and braces are from 35,000 to 75,000.

Consultation for implants is free and the good news is both sisters speak good English especially Khun Urai who can act as a translator.

Tel: 032 513 264

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013 (the clutch pedal is usual for me). The next problem is you can’t hear a starter motor or any engine sound. Many readers will probably see that I have not been in tune with the ways of modern vehicles so my apologies for these antiquated comments. Not a criticism of the Toyota, just recognising that cars have changed significantly for the better.

out on what there is to be seen. Don’t make this mistake! Many years ago I once drove past the turn off to the most picturesque golf course in the USA, Pebble Beach. As a golf fan I still regret not stopping to this day.

I would also not recommend listening to AC/DC as the music tends to ‘rev you up’ rather than slow you down. You’ll probably want to get out Inside the Camry and it feels like a big car. of the vehicle more if Barry Manilow is playing!

The vision all around is excellent and really If you are without your own vehicle don’t after a few kilometres to acclimatise an easy expect to have a test car offered but local taxis and relaxing drive. My ‘navigator’, the music or minibus drivers are always available. This arranger, took some time to find the way to load scenic drive is not well known and a little off a CD, but then the sound system easily coped the beaten track, but an easy drive on a well with AC/DC at volumes making conversation signed road offering new Thailand experiences difficult. and highly recommended.

Without AC/DC as a distraction the ride is quiet So finally take your time with an early start so and smooth (no swearing at speed humps that you can get the full sense and feel of this required) and with ventilated electronically different part of the countryside. controlled adjustable seating, I couldn’t imagine a more comfortable trip. No suffering Get your motor runnin’! from my usual backside problems after sitting for several hours.

I can also vouch for the braking systems as an old lady on a bicycle didn’t bother to check behind before wobbling across the road into my path. The horn also gives the right note, operated by my ‘assistant’ against my better judgement! No point in scaring the lady on the bike after she had crossed the road?

Again our thanks to Muang Petch for the opportunity to consider what a new Toyota has to offer and really adding to the enjoyment of our road trip. This is a really friendly crew offering great service.

Some Final Comments

If you are in the mood for a different route between Hua Hin/Cha-Am either to or from Bangkok, this is a way to avoid the traffic for this section of the trip (a similar distance) although your speed will be restricted. One of the pleasant aspects of the journey is the condition of the road; an excellent ‘black top’, undamaged by the recent rains and in much better condition than the main highway.

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Cover Story

b& Captain Doug’s Pu Guesthouse town run

and Guesthouse in There is a new Pub , usually Philippe Dougound n

by Swiss/ Canadia alike. rs me sto cu d an s nd known as Doug to frie opposite in Khao Takiap just The pub is situated an Huadon ob Mo i So to n tur from where you would ce is not by the Sea. The pla house towards Anantasila e ng ora only 3 storey hard to find as it’s the d the gang serve standard an on that corner. Doug We heard course Guinness. drinks, beer and of ould be sh it s just the way they serve Guinnes a Hin. Hu in s es inn Gu st be served; some say the with huge mely in classy way, The place is very ho u can watch yo ere wh r ba the TVs in two areas of ve all the matches as they ha your favorite Sports rs where rne co are also small channels! There de deck. tsi ou an d an s nd h frie made you can chill out wit me (ho rs rge serving bu and gs Soon they will be win en ts), proper chick with fresh ingredien u might yo d an nk dri a for wn other snacks. Go do us music y also have a serio stay all night as the you entertained. Don’t be ep system set up to ke t Captain Doug’s! the last know abou s road turning toward Address: Opposite 83 69 9 10 3 08 l: Te Sea. Anantasila by the

The Navigator’s Comments

“As the Navigator my only complaint(s) about the trip was the long time it took us to get a proper CD collection complied for the trip. We spent most of the morning trying to start the car, but instead of starting the car we ejected a CD from the player or made digital maps appear out of nowhere.

Mirabelle – For te All Your Favouri s French Delicacie ndy

Now the Toyota Camry is a magnificent car, but we are people used to driving cars that cough to life and rattle the rest of the time. Sometimes One of the features of this scenic route is the we couldn’t even figure out if the car was on or frequent signed ‘view points’, typically offering not. Not the cars fault just inept drivers! a short description of the location at the side Besides that comment, my driver has a of the road. However there are far too many penchant for hitting the gas and swishing past to stop at and they don’t really offer the best beautiful view points. Sometimes ignoring views. I would suggest that you consider our comments such “stop here I want to use the recommendations then make up your own bathroom”, Swish…. We also went past many mind where to pause during the journey. nice eateries, cafes, beaches, temples, dogs, If you choose to shorten the journey there are people and so on. four signed roads which lead to Petchaburi City An OK jokes aside, the car is too swell for along the route. I wouldn’t really recommend words, although giving us a white car is asking this option as you will miss out on the full ‘road for mud splatters and may not have been a trip’ experience, but if time is short it may be good idea. I have to say the car (and the driver) considered. drives beautifully.

Red number plates are issued for new vehicles It’s so spacious and comfortable we could have in Thailand before the permanent plates added 10 toy boys (or girls) in the back and arrive. The rumour is that red plated cars are nobody would have noticed. unofficially given more right-of-way by other drivers, perhaps because of the status that As for the trip I have always been taken in by is assigned to a new car owner. Strangely “Verano” Beach; I think the best beach North enough I can confirm that rumour. Almost of Cha-Am by far. I also fell for Chao Samran everyone gave way regardless of whether they Beach & Village. should have or not!

It’s very relaxing and rural, so rural that I actually Bicycle enthusiasts could also think about a screamed “7 Eleven!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” when I saw the tour, perhaps over several days. It’s flat and first 7 Eleven after driving for hours straight. maybe not so many traffic hazards.

Quite a feat if you ask me.

tre newly opened Mirabelle is a ything er ev g llin se n se French delicates ys of wa e th or want in you could imagine y.

French gastronom ts range of produc They sell a wide ts and spices from en including condim des, , jams & marmala es bl ied fruits & vegeta dr d of ve n er tio es lec pr , se ps rld, syru mprehensive co ve ha ey all around the wo Th . eads. scuits & cookies ettes and other br vinegars, oils, bi s & butters, bagu se ee ch , es ag us d wine “Burgundy (aged) hams, sa ing beef stew in re lud inc , ay rd sauce, aw ke ta t pork with musta be eaten in or as n ro ca , s ial tils ec len sp & ily fit Da com e? ot-au-feu”, duck need we say mor style”, French “p tato gratin (yum!); po d an rk po th wi with yummy stuffed tomatoes eat coffee & teas ch gallette gr of p cu a y jo day you can en oissant and Fren On top of that, all I must also mention chocolate cr eese & egg) - yes! s. ch , rie uffed with ham cakes and past st e ak nc pa t ea ckwh sort Hua Hin (traditional thin bu posite Amara re op , 94 i ari!)

So e th d on (note: not the Am Address: Locate

Our thanks to Keith Hillman, a local resident at A month ago I requested a story called “Where Chao Samran, for his valuable tips on what to does that road go (North of Cha Am)?” Now look out for on the way. that we know I feel it was really worthwhile. If you decide to go exploring, just make sure you I know that I have a travelling problem in not a have a nice car, a driver who stops once in a stopping often enough on a journey and missing while and plenty of time. Rock On!”

recommend We have meant to e time as m this place for so staff use e fic of r ou of t mos ast, lunch kf ea br this as a place. The and takeaway prices very e th food is great, the service is reasonable and ecial favorite fantastic. Our sp s the food. ok co at is the lady th e also local t latte! There ar ea gr th wi t as kf icy sauce. ea rves western br th fried rice and sp ick with The restaurant se thai, pork with basil, fried pork wi tly . We mos st pad eak and smoothies st , tti favorites such as he ag sp e s. ies includ The western good r their low cost and yummy portion fo es great English rit vo fa l the loca the cook speaks ai, Th ing rn lea e n become a e to eat. If you ar n. This place ca This is a great plac t with your Thai prounouncatio ou , it’s addictive! but loves to help ngout. Be warned ha g nin ing time is 5pm. favorite mor Please note clos Cool Breeze) pposite sdamri Road (O 636 Address: 7 Nare Tel No: 032 530

Baan 7 Restaurant

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Princess Chulabhorn Opens

O

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Kasetsart University Vetinery Teaching Hospital Hua Hin

n 5th October 2013, Princess Chulabhorn officially opened the Kasetsart University Vetinary Hospital Hua Hin. This was a grand occasion with representatives of all levels of government and practitioners and academics in the field of Vetinary Sciences in attendance.

qualified Vetinary professionals on site, the facilities have the capacity to provide world’s practice and research in Vetinary science as well as the best of care for animals in need. Vetinary services are available to the public and according to one guest at the opening are absolutely first class. As someone proving care Royal patronage of the University has been instrumental in this for stray dogs, Josette Fisher (Temple Dogs) is a frequent visitor.

This is her account of experiences to date: exceptional project being now a reality.

Professor Doctor Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn ‘The recent opening of the new Kasetsart University Veterinary Princess Chulabhorn studied Chemistry and graduated in 1979 Training Hospital in Hua Hin has been a real blessing for me. I from the Faculty of Science at Kasetsart University, with a have had my share of bad experiences with some vets around Bachelor of Science, First Class Honours. She continued to study this area. Now I take all the dogs to the new hospital and I cannot Science at Mahidol University, where she received her Doctorate be more positive about the place. In my experience the staff has been extraordinarily kind and understanding. All the vets can in 1985. speak English. They are all young and work with the meticulous Her Royal Highness is heavily involved in the promotion of professionalism of newly qualified doctors. It gives me confidence scientific research, and regularly receives awards and prizes. She and hope. The place is modern and the grounds it stands in are held the position of a guest lecturer in Chemistry at the Mahidol beautiful. I hope to use the new hospital for many years to come.

University. She also serves as the President of the Chulabhorn The manager of the hospital is one of the professors and he has Research Institute. She was awarded the UNESCO Einstein helped me by reducing the fees in certain cases. I really rave Medal for her efforts in promoting scientific collaboration in 1986 about them.’ and was the first Asian to be invited to join the Royal Society of STAGE TWO – The Princess Chulabhorn International Chemistry in the United Kingdom as an Honorary Fellow.

Conference Centre The hospital teaching facilities aim to provide diagnostic and Construction is now underway for the next stage of facilities at

events with a less academic focus.

The construction responsibilities are with the Port and Marine Corporation Co. Ltd. (PAM) with their staff also being invited the University opening. Khun Siripaporn Boonrod (‘Elle’) is a civil engineer on site. She has been with this Company for the past 4 years and has relocated from her home town of Nakhon Sawang to take a leading role in project’s engineering requirements. She explained that construction will be over the next two years and is clearly very proud of the project and the status of the building to come.

In due course another Royal opening seems likely with continuing patronage from the Thailand Royal family demonstrating a strong commitment to these world class facilities.

Kasetsart University Veterinary Teaching Hospital Hua Hin

Address: 9 Petchkasem Road, Nong Kae (next to Suan Son), Hua Hin Phone: 032527605-8, Emg: 0870645225

Open Hours : Monday - Thursday : 8.30am - 4pm, Friday : 8.30am therapeutic services in small and large animal practices. This this site. The Princess Chulabhorn International Conference - 11.30am new campus is dedicated to international training in veterinary Centre features accommodation and conference facilities which Saturday, Sunday & public holidays : 9.30am - 1.30pm are destined to be the envy every Province in Thailand. This will education in South-East Asia Region. be another major attraction to the region, attracting international Open Every evening : 5pm - 7.30pm Already fully operational with University students and highly standard academic and research based conferences as well as

B

BLOOD DONATIONS – EVERYONE WINS!

lood donations play a vital role in saving human life. Because scientists have yet to succeed in discovering a suitable artificial replacement for blood, blood donation remains the most important means for transferring blood from one human to another. Donating blood may be your way of giving something to the community and also feeling good about yourself.

A DONOR’S PERSONAL COMMENT

Maintaining a ‘Blood Bank’ of the various blood types to be ready for any emergency is a worldwide necessity, including in Thailand. There are also differences in the frequencies of blood types between different countries, for example blood group A is associated with high frequencies in Europe, especially in Scandinavia and Central Europe. For this reason donations by foreigners can be important in Thailand.

This is an account by a blood donor who recently attended the Blood Donation Centre in Hua Hin. The donor happened to be a staff Member of Hua Hin and Cha-Am Today who is a regular donor and prompted this article after talking about her experience.

Blood donations refer to giving extra blood that is unnecessary for the body to someone in need. Giving blood is by no means dangerous because the human body normally contains 17-18 glasses of blood, of which only 15-16 is actually used. The extra portion can be donated to others.

What’s In It For You? Blood donation can be made as often as every 3 months. This is because when some blood has been donated, the bone marrow produces new blood cells to replace the blood loss to maintain the same blood volume. The donation process usually takes about 15 minutes. About 350-450 c.c. of blood is taken, depending on the donor’s weight.

H Blood donors can take a personal pride in knowing that they have made a difference by giving.

H Blood donors can receive a free physical check-up every 3 months. Because every unit of donated blood is examined through laboratory processes, the donor is screened for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, AIDS as well as other health factors including blood pressure levels.

H Blood donors receive information about their blood type-both ABO and RH. What Is Required To Become A Blood Donor?

When you attend a blood donation facility you will be asked to complete a comprehensive questionnaire to ensure your suitability. These are the basic requirements covered in that questionnaire.

H 17-70 years of age.

H Good general health, with a weight of over 45 kg.

H No history of significant illnesses including: hepatitis, jaundice, malarial fever for the past 3 years, sexually transmitted diseases, infectious diseases, haemophilia or other blood-related diseases, asthma, epilepsy, long-term skin diseases, kidney diseases, heart problems, diabetes, thyroid problems.

H No unprotected sexual activity by you or your partner outside of your primary relationship.

H No history of intravenous drug use.

H Not diagnosed as HIV positive or participating in high risk activities.

‘I always think that it is not easy for us to find something simple, but very powerful in making a donation to the community. I am a blood donor 4 times a year. It’s easy to become complacent; but when you have a good body you have the opportunity to help others.

I think about people in the world competing for food, water and even H Blood donation is not recommended for 6 air. I can’t do much but giving blood makes me months after a medical operation, child delivery feel proud and I am glad that I can do a little to or abortion. help others.

H Allow 1 year before giving blood after I want to invite others to think about this simple receiving a blood transfusion.

H Female donors should not be menstruating way of helping the lives of others. It won’t cost you anything and you will learn more about your or pregnant. own health. You are investing in your health and Before Blood Donation the overall health of the society. It doesn’t hurt; the nurse was so gentle and kind. Giving blood H Have a good night’s sleep; at least 6 hours.

H Stay healthy; free from colds and medications. will make you feel great!’

H Prior to the donation, eat non-fat digestible WHERE AND WHEN? food.

H Do not drink alcoholic beverages for 24 hours In Hua Hin go to the Thai Red Cross Society Hua Hin branch next door to the Hua Hin before the donation.

H To enhance the blood-purifying capacity of Municipality offices. The Cha-Am Hospital also the lungs, quit smoking 1 hour before and after accepts blood donations although this is a newly established facility. the donation After The Blood Donation H Rest for a while. Getting up abruptly may lead to nausea.

H Drink fluids provided and a lot of water for the following 24 hours.

H Make sure you feel OK before leaving the facility; tell the staff if you feel dizzy or nauseous.

H Take any prescribed iron tablets.

H Prevent bruises and swelling by avoiding too much use of your arm (the site of the blood withdrawal) for 12 hours.

H Avoid activities that use too much energy and cause perspiration.

You may have to be persistent in your efforts to be a blood donor and it’s fair to say that neither service is very easy to find or well signed, but that’s only the first time!

Red Cross Hua Hin Opening Hours.

Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8.30 am – 7.30 pm., Tuesday, Thursday 8.30 am. – 4.30 pm., Saturday 9.00 am – 3.30 pm.

Tel 032 512 2370, http://www.redcross.or.th/., www.facebook.com/RegianhuhinNBC

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

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That Girl! Hua Hin Attitude

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e have just met lovely Pisa Cheng the creative founder of Uniqueness Ltd, in her trendy Atelier & Showroom on Nongplub Road right opposite Big C Market. Pisa was born and grew up in Hong Kong as an only child.

symbol means happiness and since it is repeated, it should bring you a double happiness.

She recently came up with a fantastic idea to help “Temple Dogs”. She has designed hand-made key chains with pictures of the temples puppies. They Uniqueness has started as a speed-dating are no more than 200 baht each, and all the profits company back in 2007 in Hong Kong and operated will go to help nurturing female dogs at “Temple for around 3 years. As a hobby Pisa made her Dogs”. own bags, clutches, and small accessories with Her beauty and fashion essentials: a simple whatever materials she could find, selling some of concealer and mascara that she won’t leave the them on either E-bay or Etsy website. She noticed house without applying. Pisa has an obsession that people were stopping her in the street or when with high heels, but this is now kept for her night’s she was going out, to know where she bought this out in Hong Kong. Her favorite place in Hua Hin, is or that bag. She decided that is was time to start a little bar by the sea near the Hilton, she is not sure her own business. What a great way to make a of the name, but she calls it “Panda Bar” because living about something you are passionate about. the dog they have there has that name. On weekEarlier this year, that Pisa and her husband and her ends Pisa loves to relax with her Husband by the decided to move from Hong Kong and set up a pool, playing with their dogs. furniture business for him, with her shop next door. Her favorite place to escape and relax, after Hong Her concept is “One of the Kind”; in the shop there Kong where her family is based, is Fiji. It was her are materials such as paper, plastic, fur and leather honeymoon destination, and she loves the friendly materials. There are gorgeous and bold bright and kind the people there. If you get a chance, stop colours to more neutral shades. Our favorite one by you will not regret it. As Christmas is around the is “The Woooool” in grey marl color. But you can corner, you might find the perfect gift to offer to go and actually create your own if you would like friends and family. And if you are “double-lucky”, to make some changes from what she has already. Figo their beloved dog will be happy to say hi and Just go and discuss with her. won’t say no to being petted.

Pisa’s personal signature is her logo: this symbol 36/139 NongPlub Road (Opposite Big C Market) signifies happiness and is pronounced “sheung Tel: 032 511 861 Website: www.uniqueness.asia hei” in Cantonese. In Chinese calligraphy, this Facebook : www.facebook.com/Uniqueness.Asia

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

SIX AMAZING COURSES OF MICHELIN TWO STAR CUISINE

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Villas Hua Hin invited us to experienced the finest creations from the sea and enjoy a six course dinner made to perfection by world renowned Michelin Two Star Chef Alexandre Couillon from France.

Walking to V Villas along a path from the Reception to the Restaurant makes you feel ready for relaxation with footlights helping you to find the way. At the end of the pathway it seems like you are close by to the ocean but it is really the silent swimming pool surrounded by tall palm trees.

I had the luck to sit outside at a lonely table with romantic candles and flowers. It was not totally silent because behind you could hear water falling and light chill-out music. The green lights from the fishing boats were decorating the sea so beautifully.

The whole atmosphere here brims with expectation and a desire to please.

Khuyn Pang, my waitress welcomed me with a cool glass of white wine, a basket of homemade bread, butter and a complimentary gift from the chef, natural sea salt. The first dish arrived!!!

‘Oyster with bacon bouillon and squid’; you could smell the sea with this dish. The dressing from the ink of squid was amazing.

Second dish was ‘Langoustine, green peas, raspberry and minted yogurt’ . The langoustine was cooked perfectly and together with the green peas, the base of the dish was a great combination.

The raspberry gave you a sweet and sour taste in every bite. The second glass of wine was a little bit stronger.

At V Villas Hua Hin

Third dish was ‘Cod, zucchini, goat milk and melon’.

The plate was like a picture, the upper section of the fish had all the colours of the rainbow. The fish was super moist and soft, it could easy melt in your mouth. The sweet zucchini and melon against the bitter and strong taste from the goat milk created a well balanced dish. The goat milk was like foam, as it has to be. I was trying to keep to small bites avoid finishing this plate but it wasn’t easy. The chef had selected the 2011 Domaine Vacheron Sancerre, a French wine to compliment the dish; it was the best glass of wine I have had in a long time!.

The next dish was the one I was waiting for from the beginning; ‘Lobster with grilled asparagus, mussel and Salicornia’. My words cannot describe this perfection. This is how ambrosia must taste. So perfect it made me feel guilty to taste it as a mere mortal. Salicornia has such a unique taste and a little bit salty which makes it perfectly suited to fish dishes. The grilled asparagus was wonderful. Even if you taste them all together you could experience the difference between every ingredient. Most importantly, the lobster keeps its own flavour. This dish is one of the chef’s signature dishes, now I know why!

Before the fifth dish, a glass of 2009 Chateau Cantemerle, Haut-Medoc from France arrived to prepare me for the change in taste from the fish to meat. This dish was ‘Saddle lamb, grilled cucumber and crab juice’. The lamb was cooked rare and the taste of the cucumber was exceptional and different. It wasn’t the usual flavour not a fresh, but a grilled taste. The dish had a touch of apple and lemon. With every bite I tried to combine all the flavours as they are meant to be experienced; such a beautiful dish.

La Marine restaurant in the small fishing village of L’Hermbaudiere, on Noirmoutier Island in the Vendée coast of France. He has earned numerous distinctions for his unique talent with seafood.

He has been awarded the coveted “Hope Trophee”, recognising young chefs deemed to best represent the future of French gastronomy and in 2007 earned his first Michelin star. The following year, he was named the Grand Chef de Demain by respected critic Gault Millau. Finally he achieved his Time for dessert! The name does not prepare second Michelin star in 2013. you for how gorgeous is really is. It was called Chef Alexandre has also been called a superb ‘fish ‘chocolate and maritime pine’. I was prepared for and seafood cook’ due to his excellent handling a simple chocolate taste but this is not the style of the changing catch of the day with stylish and of a Michelin Two Star Chef. Oops!, I forgot the complex recipes. He is often mentioned because Champagne to cleanse my pallet before the desert. of his own restaurant, La Marine. There it is not After Khun Pang served the dessert I was trying to considered necessary to ask for the menu, as see where the chocolate was hiding under the ice everything he puts on the table is guaranteed to be cream and dressing from grated nuts and biscuits. delicious.

It was a very nice dessert.

This is his first time in Hua Hin and he really like Time to Meet Chef Alexandre Couillon it and wants to return. However he likes cooking Alexandre Couillon is chef and owner of renowned in his home country as this is where he finds his

inspiration. He loves to cook fish and seafood. He admires many French chefs and he mentioned Michel Bras, a Michelin Three Star Chef. He loves all his dishes but those with lobster are his favorites.

We hope to see you again Chef Alexandre and we thank V Villas for giving us the chance to have such a special night in Hua Hin. Tel: 032 616 039

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013 C

Condos and Land for Sale by Owner

THAI LANGUAGE & CULTURE LESSONS TAILORED-MADE To Suit Learners

Baan Chai Talay ( next to Hyatt on Hua Hin Main Beach) 2brs/2 bths 129 sq.m. 2nd Flr.

Baan Saechuan (opposite Market Village on Hua Hin Main Beach) 2 brs/2 bths 99 sq.m. Ground Flr. Boathouse (near Palm Hills Golf ) 1 br/1 bth 67 sq.m. Ground Flr. 1 br/1 bth 60 sq.m. Ground Flr. Both with terrace direct into pool

Palm Pavilion (very good deal, opp. Makro on the beach)

Conducted by a certified Thai facilitator

Land on Palm Hills Golf 1.5 Rai - 2.400 sq.m.

Located in Palm Village on main lake with great scenery

Interested please contact:

2 brs/2 bths / 2 balconies 120 sq.m. 3rd Floor Lake View

homestay.ak@gmail.com Call : 087-9869863

For price and nego please contact

M: 081-829-5478, 086-003-6920 E: claus@lct-asia.com

Condominium for Rent @Hin Nam Sai Suay Fully furnished one bedroom apartment in perfect condition, located at Hua Hin Soi 7 Fully equipped with kitchenette, furniture and split level bedroom.

Includes facilities such as pool and gym. 10 baht Mini bus to town is available every 15 minutes.

For more details contact: Khun Supranee Tel: 081 981 2997 or Email: supranee224@yahoo.com

Apartment 45 m² for long term rent

I would like to buy or rent a Private Condo on the beach

Hua Hin Highland, land sea view panorama.

Fully furnished. 1 bedroom AC, 1 bathroom, livingroom, kitchen, Cable TV. And 25 m² living terrace. 5km to city.

(Note: not from agent or agency) Needed: 1 or 2 bedroom 60-80sq apartment Optional: For Rent of condo lease starting from 3 years up.

Please send me photo & price on my email kemod@gmx.de

5,500THB per month. Tel.087-7601063

To advertise in this space Tel: 032 909 095 or Email: editor@huahintoday.com

Sale or rentals to be paid in euro (cash)

Like Hua Hin Today on Facebook to be one of the first to receive more information

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

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STARWOOD HOTELS EXPANDS PRESENCE IN THAILAND WITH THE DEBUT OF SHERATON HUA HIN PRANBURI VILLAS

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tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced its world-renowned Sheraton brand has expanded its footprint in Thailand with the opening of Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas in Prachuap Khirikhan, a province famed for its sandy coastline and popular resort towns of Hua Hin and Pranburi. The converted and rebranded 55-villa property is owned by Honor Business Company Limited, a Bangkok-based property development firm that also owns the 240-room Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa.

Support for Hua Hin Red Cross

“We are thrilled to partner with Honor Business Company on this conversion in Prachuap Kirikhan, a popular seaside retreat on the Gulf of Siam,” said Lothar Pehl, Senior Vice President, Operations and Global Initiatives and Regional Vice President, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam; and Japan, Korea and Guam, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “Through its conversion-friendly strategy, Starwood offers owners the opportunity to reposition existing properties and affiliate themselves with strong global brands that resonate with travelers in markets worldwide.”

The advisor to Hua Hin’s mayor Mr. Chumphol Choksuchart, the chairperson of the Lions Club Hua Hin Mr. Somchai Krajaejerm and the Club’s committee members donated 20,000 Baht cash to Hua Hin Red Cross and the Dok Lam Duan Club for the senior in Hua Hin. This donation will be used for activities of both organizations.

Presentation of the donation was also attended by the advisor of the Office of Royal Affairs of Thailand Khun Thanom Praisri.

Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas is the newest addition to Starwood’s dynamic portfolio of 21 properties in Thailand under eight of its brands: St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, W Hotels, Sheraton, Westin, Le Méridien, Aloft and Four Points by Sheraton. Sheraton currently operates four hotels in the Thai kingdom, including Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort, and Sheraton Pattaya Resort.

Tee Time Thailand Invitational Hosted by Black Mountain Golf Club, Hua Hin

The Tee Time Thailand Invitational is billed as the year’s most fun golf event in Hua Hin. There is ฿500,000 worth of prizes with a First Prize valued at ฿100,000 Lucky Draw First Prize valued at ฿30,000.

This will be held at Black Mountain as a two day Event on 5th and 6th December.

The two ball better ball team Stableford format will be managed by local golfing identity and ‘entrepreneur’ Marten Norragard. The highest Stableford score for a two person team is counted on each hole. If you don’t have a partner another golfer can be found to join you.

Entry includes: Shotgun start: 12:30 p.m. (both days) BBQ Brunch from 10:00 a.m., 1 Beer or soft drink before and after golf, Fenix event shirt, Golf & Caddie. BBQ Brunch from 10:00 a.m., Golf, Caddie, 1 Beer or soft drink before and after golf, Lucky Draw & 3-Course Prize-Giving Dinner.

To register for this tournament or for further details: Email: ulf@teetimethailand.com Tel: 032-531-301 www.teetimethailand.com or marten.norragard@gmail.com Tel: 080-021-5101

regimens based on an “East meets West” technique, a soothing philosophy that harnesses elements of the natural environment to augment massage treatments.

Dalah Restaurant and Bar, the hotel’s signature all-day eatery, offers Thai, Asian and western dishes in a rustic and airy pavilion with garden and pond views The seasonal menu includes premium organic produce and healthy options from Color your PlateTM. For relaxing evenings amid good company, the Dalah Bar presents the Sheraton Social HourSM wine tasting event three times a week. In late 2014, the property will open an additional food and beverage venue, the main swimming pool, a Kids’ Club, and a well-equipped gym with the brand’s revolutionary health and fitness program, Sheraton® Fitness

by Core Performance™.

An easy and scenic three-hour drive from Bangkok, Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas boasts a prime beachfront location, approximately Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas also offers a shuttle service to Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa should guests wish to utilize the 22 kilometers south of Hua Hin. Resort’s existing facilities, including the Shine Spa for SheratonTM Guests can choose between one-bedroom Pool Villas, Pool Villa and several restaurants. Guests will enjoy the convenience of signing Suites with an additional living room, and Duplex Pool Villa Suites privileges at such venues, charging their account at the Villas. with a ground-floor living room and bedroom on the first floor. For Other Resort amenities, including the fitness center, swimming pool larger groups, the hotel also offers the Pranburi two-bedroom Pool and Kids’ Club, are also available to the Villas’ guests without any Villa Suite. All Villas boast a private swimming pool, sun lounge, additional charge. wall garden and the service of professional villa butlers. Rooms are equipped with the king-sized Sheraton Sweet Sleeper™ Bed with a As part of a special opening package, Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi plush mattress and cozy duvet; sunken outdoor bathtub surrounded Villas is offering guests a stay in the newly revitalized Pool Villa at an by serene lotus ponds and a rain shower in the garden; LCD flat panel exceptional 50% off the standard rate, starting from THB 8,000++. television; DVD player, including a I-Home docking station; spacious For more spacious suites, the Duplex Pool Villa Suite will be available from THB 11,000++, and for the ultimate in luxury, the Pool Villa Suite work area; and High Speed Internet Access. is available from THB 16,000++. All Villas include a gourmet breakfast Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas features all the Sheraton brand’s at Dalah Restaurant and Bar. popular amenities and services including the signature Link@ Sheraton® experienced with Microsoft® and a Link Café. Guests For more information or reservations, please visit www.sheraton. can enjoy spa services by the private pool and a range of personalized com/huahinpranburi

Contemporary Art Exhibition

by Richard Skene at YaiYa Hua Hin

ASIAN TOUR ANNOUNCES DETAILS FOR 2014 QUALIFYING SCHOOL IN HUA HIN AND CHA-AM

YaiYa Hua Hin is proud to present Richard Skene’s exhibition of contemporary art, “The Road of Excess leads to the Palace of Wisdom” at YaiYa Hua Hin from November 15, 2013 – December 15, 2013.

The opening reception will be on Friday, November 15, 2013 from 6.30 – 8.00 pm.

In addition to having a Thai flavour, a common theme of Richard’s collection is the “pursuit of happiness”, which is one of the three “unalienable rights” in the United States of America’s Declaration of Independence and The Asian Tour has announced the dates for its 2014 Qualifying a key principle of Buddhism.

School, which will be held in Hua Hin and Cha-Am from late Visitors will enjoy a special tour of the art and an January till mid-February next year. explanation by the artist, Richard Skene, either at Sponsored by the Sports Authority of Thailand, the Qualifying the opening reception or by arranging a specific time School will be held over two stages. during the exhibition with a complimentary glass of The First Stage will be held over two sections, with Section A to wine. For more information, please contact (66) 032 be held at the Imperial Lakeview Golf Club and Royal Thai Army 406 117-8 Sports Center, Suan Son Pradipat from January 29 to February 1.

Section B will be staged over three courses - the Imperial Lakeview Golf Club, Springfield Royal Country Club and Royal Thai Army Sports Center - from February 5 to 8. hether you believe in Ghosts or are a sceptic, there is no denying that the paranormal has a profound effect on the Thai society and The all-important Final Stage, where players will fight for top-40 everyday lives. It is so ingrained in their culture that what may appear to be strange or bizarre for people from a Western culture is finishes to earn playing rights on the premier Asian Tour in 2014, just accepted as normal for the majority of Thai society. The strong belief in Ghosts and Spirits affect every aspect of Thai life, from will be held at the Springfield Royal Country Club and Imperial their religious beliefs, TV programs/ films and can even influence business - most businesses will have a Spirit house installed and provide Lakeview Golf Club from February 12-15. offerings of food and gifts to placate the Ghosts and Spirits that may dwell in their property and attract good luck. The Thai word for ghost is ‘Phi’, pronounced ‘Pea’ as in peanut.

Explore the Ghosts and Spirits of Thailand

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Here’s a sample of some of these ghostly beliefs!

Phi Nang Tani - A female tree spirit which lives in banana trees and appears on a full moon night. It is regarded as a good ghost and will give bananas as food and occasionally may fill the alms bowls of itinerant monks. Similar to Phi Nang Ta-kean and for same reasons the Thais do not like this type of tree if haunted.

Phi Phrai - This unfortunate spirit is of a woman who has died during childbirth. If that was not enough of a burden their body has been used in a ceremony to extract Phi Thai Hong lotion - this lotion is said to provide the magical ability to drive men wild and attracted to the woman that administers the concoction. The lotion is obtained by a sorcerer who will extract essential oils from the corpse by putting a lighted candle under the deceased persons chin.

Phi Pa - A spirit that dwells in the forest. Hunters may leave a piece Phi Poang Khang - A spirit in the shape of a black monkey which of their catch to appease and show respect to the spirit, normally a likes to suck the big toe of people sleeping in the jungle. It is said to bit of the eyelid, lip, tongue or foot of the killed animal. live near salt licks.

Phi Pawb - The spirit of someone that has died violently and sits on Phi Pob - A devious ghost which will infest it’s victim and eat away the shoulders of their victim causing the victim to appear lop sided. their entrails before leaving their victims body. In public if infested with Phi Peta - A hungry ghost. It is said that anyone that is more Phi Pob the victim will pretend to be ill but when given the opportunity preoccupied with material attachments and exclude the spiritual will it will steal uncooked meat to eat at night. be reborn as a Peta once they die. They have a giant belly and a Phi Tai Ha - The spirit of a woman who has died of malaria, the ghost mouth as small as the eye of a needle with an enormous appetite also has the ability to spread the deadly disease. for almost everything, food, money, power or sex. A Peta ghost can sometimes be heard whistling at night, looking for someone to make Phi Tai Tong Glom - This is a seriously evil ghost. The Phi Tai Tong merit for them. This ghost is ill tempered and aggressive as they Glom is a female who died giving birth and her baby died also. This doubles the evil strength of this spirit and is definitely one to avoid. constantly remain unsatisfied.

This ghost is actually a variant of Phi Tai Hong and is sometimes referred to as Phi Tai Hong Tong Glom.

Phi Thuk Khun - The lifeforce of a living person which has to leave the physical body and be sent out on astral journey on a weekly basis. If this does not happen then harm will come to its owner.

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE

“Signature Salt Pot Muscles Melter” @ Cenvaree Spa

’m like most indulgent people out there and love massages. I get really tight muscles and so I’ve been having quite a few massages recently! This week, I had a massage at the Cenvaree Spa@Centara Grand Beach Resort.

I wanted to go to the Cenvaree Spa for a number of reasons. Firstly, it’s at a Five Star hotel, and secondly, the Cenvaree Spa is located about 10 minutes from my home. I wanted to experience a massage in this luxury hotel, then go back to work. I was greeted by the lovely Spa Manager Khun Boulyhadar who took me through the garden and showed me the beautiful spa, offering me a cool tea and a fresh cool towel.

She explained that the name Cenvaree is a combination of the name Centara and Varee which means water. When you will arrive to the spa you will see their logo “In love with life”; this place is really where you can enjoy life.

After a short discussion with the spa manager, I met my therapist. Her name was Khun Nim and she has 15 years of experience in massage and spa. The reception of the spa looked very nice with wooden detail and calming music. Even the bathroom was relaxing. They had Cenvaree’s own spa range of soaps and moisturizers, and proper towels in a basket which I always love.

The room we were in was lovely and smelt like

ginger and lemon. More relaxation music was playing and there were candles and oils burning.

Khun Nim applied a foot scrub of sea salt and ginger then removed it with hot tea which has an antibacterial and antiseptic action. As it was the first time I tried this treatment, my therapist give me more information about it.

My treatment started by covering me with smooth towels to protect my skin from the hot pots and to keep me warm. Khun Nim had prepared the pots beforehand so that when the treatment started they were at the right temperature. She placed some of the pots on my energy points and some she used to massage my body. With different pressure she passed the warm pots all over my body. She used different pressure to different parts of my body to release my stress and muscle pain. The perfect massage for de-stressing and pampering yourself. I highly recommend this style of massage at Cenvaree Spa.

This therapy is locally inspired as a combination of deep tissue massage and hot salt pot compress to release tension in the shoulders and lower back muscles. Each pot contains a blend of coarse salt and medicinal herbs to provide relief to tired muscles. Therapeutic oils such as Pettigrain, Eucalyptus and Lavender penetrate deeply into muscle tissue.

Book a treatment or visit their beautiful spa, as

there are such lovely and professional people.

The massage itself was really fantastic. My massage wasn’t so gentle because I asked for strong pressure; this is something you will be asked at the beginning of the therapy. My therapist focused on my upper back and neck as I had asked, releasing my pain in a very gentle way. Khun Nim used a bell at the end of the therapy to bring me wake me up from my sweet dreams.

Book your next massage at Cenvaree Spa at Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin and you will not regret. If you are lucky Khun Nim will take care of you. For more information visit their website www.spacenvaree.com .

Homocysteine, An indicator of Coronary Artery Disease

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e would like to present you a new way to detect Coronary Artery Disease. This indicator operates by checking the level of Homocysteine, an amino acid, which indicates the risk of Coronary Artery Disease.

Homocysteine is the amino acid that generates other amino acids by using vitamin B6, B12 and folic acid. Without these vitamins, Homocysteine will not transform into other amino acids, high levels of Homocysteine in blood will damage Arterial Wall and trigger blood clot.

Core risk factors of Coronary Artery Disease are age, blood pressure, less HDL level, smoking, and heredity factors. Another factor that does not included in the list aboveis a high level of Homocystein. Lacking of vitamin B6, B12 and folic acid can be the cause.

How does Homocysteine cause Coronary Heart Having too much Methionine (from meat, egg, Disease? milk, and cheese), lacking of exercise, having certain chronic diseases such as kidney Excessive Homocysteine in a blood-vessel can disease, receiving stimulants such as alcohol, directly cause damage to the arterial wall and coffee, cigarette, and some medicines such as make it rough and be attached by atheroma. anticonvulsive, or antacids can also be a cause.

Finally, it will cause blockade and eventually angiostenosis. This indication will affect whole If a high level of Homocysteine in blood is found, body blood vessels, especially the small blood you can alleviate the situation by consuming vessels such as coronary artery blood vessels, more B6, B12, and folic acid. B6 vitamin is found B12 is found in pork, fish, cheese, milk and milk and lead to myocardial infarction or cerebral in pork, beef, fish, brown rice, soybean, peanut, products. Folic acid is abundant in all kind of embolism. banana, grains, vegetables, and fruits, while green vegetables, orange, tomato and bean.

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Volume 11 issue 1 November 2013

Published at Panyachonkarnpim Add: 96 Moo 8 Tambon Nawoong Amphur Muang Petchaburi 76000 Thailand. Advertisement Editor : Piyawan Eiamudom Add: 59/135 Soi Moo Baan Hua Na, Nongkae, Hua Hin, Prachuabkirikhan. Editor : Pol.Maj Gen. Noi Wannapaiboon Business Owner : Pawadee Sangchat 59/135 Soi Moo Baan Hua Na, Nongkae ,Hua Hin ,Prachuabkirikhan.