Hua Hin Today October 2013 by Hua Hin Today

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

Volume 10 Issue 12 October 2013

Maritime Exclusion and Restricted Zones for Royal Security

ith the arrival of their Royal Majesties at the Klai Kangwon Palace on 1st August this year security arrangements for marine areas has been ‘beefed up’.

areas for conducting beach activities and fishing.

The prohibited area on the beach, starting from the Royal Residence itself, covers a semi circled area of 3,000 yards. This area can be easily Tourists, local fishermen and water sportspeople observed on the beach from the Anantara Hua have both prohibited and restricted in some Hin southwards to Centara Grand Beach Resort. It is marked by a long line of safeguarding vessels to the east. The area permissible for sailing and fishing is located 2,000 yards further from the 3,000 yard prohibited area. It is divided into two zones. The first one starts from Anantara Hua Hin northwards to the Hua Hin Airport; the second starts from Centara Grand Beach Resort southwards to Marrakesh Resort and Spa. There is one more area where sailing, not

fishing is allowed. It is located from the Imperial Hotel to the Hua Hin fishing pier in the south and covers 2,000 yards in the eastern side starting from the point where the royal navy is anchored.

Fishing is strictly prohibited in this area and boats should not be anchored beyond the three yellow buoys there.

Local people and tourists in Hua Hin are asked to observe these rules which may be amended later by concerned authorities. Areas where ships and boats are For most these measures will be of little allowed to anchor include the beach inconvenience as similar restrictions have been in front of the local fishermen’s village. in place over a long period of time.

Cha–Am An Unlikely Formula One Venue

ha-am is not likely to be a venue for a Formula One race, Sports Authority of Thailand Governor Kanokphan Chulakasem has stated.

Trendy.Classy. Top-rated.

Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone reportedly gave Thailand the green light to host its first Grand Pix in 2015 but the plan to organise a race in Bangkok has been shelved following protests. Cha-am is amongst candidates to become a venue but Khun Kanokphan said the location may not meet the governing body FIA’s standards.

He said he personally wanted a new circuit to be built. Although it would not be complete by

2015, it could be used for several purposes later, he said.

A contract with Mr Ecclestone has not yet been signed as this needs approval from the

government, KhunKanokphan said.

“If the government thinks it is not worth an investment, then it should put an end to the plan,” he said.

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

Dear Readers, We are entering into the high season and very excited see many new Food and Beverage businesses in town such as Molina Wine & Italian cuisine, a new Cuban Cafe, and Captain Doug’s burger joint in Kao Takiab and so on. Everybody seems to be gearing up to High season and the same goes for us. It seems like every month the newspaper is getting thicker and thicker and we are getting valuable input from TAT, the two municipalities of Hua Hin and Cha-Am, local businesses and you the readers. We truly appreciate everyone’s help. Hope you enjoy this edition of the newspaper with what we hope is a mix of local news, local social events, lifestyle and of course integral to the area Golf info and news. We are very excited that through our collaboration with Bangkok Post our local stories from Hua Hin & Cha Am today can be found on www.bangkokpost.com under the heading “Regional”/ “Hua Hin”. In the future we are looking forward to expand this collaboration and we will keep you posted on the progress. P.S The next Hua Hin Today Full Moon Party is in the works so do add on to the Hua Hin Today & Cha Am Today Facebook page as the first information will be posted there as soon as the details are hammered out. Best Regards, Eleni

MALAYSIAN ROYALTY FLY INTO HUA HIN

The Malaysian king, accompanied by his wife, was granted an audience with the King and Queen of Thailand at Klai Kangwon Palace, on Monday 2nd September, the Thai Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The royal couple flew in directly from Malaysia before proceeding to the palace. Their visit is part of a three day State visit to Thailand. Thailand bestowed the highest honours on visiting Malaysian King Tuanku Abdul Halim a Mu’adzam Shah and Malaysian Queen Tuanku Hajah Haminah during their visit to Hua Hin. The Crown Prince of Thailand, Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, presented ‘The Knight of the Most Illustrious Order of the Royal House of Chakri (Thailand)’ to Tuanku Abdul Halim and the Knight Grand Cross (First Class) of the Most Illustrious Order of the Chula Chom Klao (Thailand) to Tuanku Hajah Haminah. After Indonesia and Brunei, Thailand is the third Asean country to be visited by the Malaysian king, following his installation as the king of Malaysia for the second time in April last year. His visit is aimed at strengthening existing relations and cooperation between Malaysia and Thailand,

Hua Hin Today Full Moon Party

coming up in November 2013! Like Hua Hin Today on Facebook to be one of the first to receive more information

Some Important Regional Contacts

Organization

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

Hua Hin

Cha Am

032 514 477 032 512 770

032 471 159

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

Transport

Bus Station Railway Station

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

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

City News

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

Jumbo clash at Thai elephant polo

HUA HIN - Elephants lumber across a manicured pitch as riders wielding extra-long handled mallets chase a small white ball in the tropical heat. Welcome to polo -- Thai style.

bout a dozen teams from around the world, including former New Zealand All Blacks rugby players and transgender beauty queens, are competing in the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in the Thai seaside resort of Hua Hin.

Even polo professionals taking part in the annual event say the pachyderm version is far harder than they are used to. “The horses naturally move much quicker. The elephants don’t actually trot which was a surprise,” said Steve Thompson, owner of the Polo Academy in Dubai. “We thought they’d run a little bit but they just walk very fast and as a result the gait that they use makes it quite unstable, so your hand-to-eye coordination is quite affected on the approach to the ball and of course it is much higher.”

The tournament has come in for criticism from animal rights activists, who say elephants in captivity are often mistreated. “Thailand should be focused on protecting these majestic animals in nature, not exploiting them for a fleeting moment of human amusement,” said Ben Williamson of the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta).

But the people behind the polo tournament insist the animals -- who spend the rest of the year working in tourist resors -- are well cared for during the event. “They have a proper vet check up. They are fed. We look after them,” said King’s Cup organiser Tim Boda.

moments and new champions. After the shock loss of last year’s winners King Power earlier in the week, the final had two stellar teams, first timers Bangkok Bank (BBL), captained by former Olympian James Manclark, and Mercedes, captained by Niffy Winter, The King’s Cup -- which raises money for elephant head to head in a thrilling match. projects across Thailand was held in August 2013. With the crowd expecting an easy win for the Bangkok Bank triumphed over Mercedes 13-10 experienced Mercedes team, Bangkok Bank in the final of the 12th King’s Cup Elephant Polo looked strong early on in the first chukker with the Tournament in Hua Hin. combined offensive might of 73-year-old veteran player Manclark and his younger team-mates, After five days of fun festivities and elephant polo fellow Scotsman Alister Archibald and Michael that had sixteen teams from all over the world Goodwin. Mercedes star polo players, Winter and participating in it, including Thai supermodels, New the rock solid defence of the Goetz brothers Hugo Zealand All Black rugby players and Tiffany Show and Dirk, saw the Bangkok Bank team on the Pattaya, the final offered plenty of memorable defensive but BBL still managed to outmanoeuvre and outplay the German team to finish the first half leading by one point 8-9. “If any of these elephants were not in the right condition, or not happy to play, they would be immediately retired. They stay with us for a week, basically a spa holiday in Hua Hin.”

BBL’s Alister Archibald received nearly all the scoring glory in the second chukker, batting in three goals for his team. Manclark served up surgically precise assists, and fellow professional polo player Goodwin provided the same impenetrable wall in front of the goal that kept the Mercedes team on the defence for most of the game. The final score was 13-10 to novice team Bangkok Bank. The exciting event has not only

been about fun and games - a generous sum of Bt4.3 million was raised for various elephant charity projects at the Anantara Hua Hin gala dinner which hosted a gathering of top dignitaries and well known celebrities the previous night. Final leaderboard: 1. Bangkok Bank; 2. Mercedes; 3. King Power; 4. Audemars Piguet; 5. Rueang Chang; 6. Sara Story Design; 7. PTT; 8. Johnnie Walker Blue Label; 9. Pricewaterhouse Coopers; 10. Whisgars; 11. Citi; 12. Mekhong; 13. Anantara Hotels, Resort & Spas; 14. CDD The Devil; 15. Arabian Knights; 16. Tiffany Show Pattaya. The tournament kicked off in the royal seaside town of Hua Hin, with the opening day offering a spectacle of a 50-strong elephant parade. A Brahmin placed sacred garlands over the necks of the elephants and blessed them with scented water. Thailand’s last elephant spirit men (Khru Ba Yai), who are said to possess spiritual control over all elephants, also presided over the rituals. In addition, school children from across the region joined ‘Chang Noi’ Day, a special event designed to teach children about elephants in Thailand. All elephants taking part in the tournament are street elephants that receive essential vitamin supplements, full veterinary checks and care for the duration of the tournament. All funds raised from this year’s King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament will be donated to projects throughout Thailand. To date the tournament has raised almost Bt16 million.

Ladies Fashion Day @ King’s Cup Elephant Polo 2013

n Saturday 31st of August at the King’s Cup Elephant Polo a day was dedicated to the ladies with a Ladies’ Fashion Day Best Dressed Prize Competition. This informal competition for the best dressed was fun and a complete success. Many people came dressed for the occasion and made the day colourful for those in attendance. The 1st Prize was no less than a stay at Anantara Maldives Resort. That in itself must have been a motivation and all the ladies looked amazing. We noticed six trends for this year’s best dressed competition, and here they are: Timeless Classic Black & White - “treschic” and always sophisticated, you can’t go wrong with this combo.

Vibrant pink - Refreshing vibrant pink is for the Floral - We saw the full gamut with romantic bold and daring! flowers, tropical blooms and even some more Safari Style - A desert queen look, in neutral dramatic flower creations. beiges, reds and dull brownish-yellow

colours, and also delicate accessories such as tribal umbrellas. Cruise Style - chic and luxurious. Striped prints, anchors and shiny gold buttons all appeared in a palette of blue tones, white and a touches of red. And last but not least…. Burlesque - One of the hottest trends in the world of fashion at the moment. Pioneered by the actress and star of burlesque Dita Von Teese and recently featured in “The Great Gatsby”. The winner was a lovely lady with her daughter by her side whom transformed themself into a green burlesque outfit for the day. The outfit was custom made with their secret tailor in Bangkok. They were Congrats to both of them! To see all pictures from both really elegant, and gave their own the 31st August event go to interpretation of Burlesque with a fabulous Hua Hin Today Facebook page. combination of vintage styles, bright lime colour and a touch of modernism.

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

A RIGHT ROYAL DESTINATION

rom 2nd - 3rd September, His Majesty Almu’tasimu Billahi Muhibbuddin Tuanku Alhaj Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Badlishah and Her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Hajah Haminah, respectively the King and Queen of Malaysia, became the latest in a long line of royals to enjoy the comforts of Dusit Thani Hua Hin.

Adulyadej and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, His Majesty even showing his jazz prowess with an impromptu jam in the Polo Bar in the early days. Dusit Thani has also been a regular haunt for Thai and overseas princes and princesses, many on private visits. All three of Their Majesties King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit’s daughters have stayed at one time or another and so too the wife of the heir to the throne.

On arrival they were graciously welcomed by Victor Sukseree, Dusit Thani Hua Hin’s General Manager and Sinee Thienprasiddhi Executive Director of Dusit International. Their Majesties stayed overnight at the hotel during a very rare state visit outside Bangkok and the Malaysian royals were later granted an audience with Their Majesties King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit at the Klai Kangwon Palace in Hua Hin.

Back in 2009, when the Dusit Thani Hua Hin was proudly selected to host not one, but two ASEAN Summits, Samdech Hun Sen, and the Sultan of Brunei based themselves at the hotel along with the then Thai Prime Minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva, while Their Imperial Highnesses Prince and Princess Akishino have enjoyed Dusit Thani Hua Hin’s regal service a total of five times.

Dusit Thani Hua Hin was opened by Her Royal Highness the late Princess Galyani in December 1990 and down the intervening years, has had the honour of hosting His Majesty King Bhumibol

Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin Welcomes Chinese University Lecturers

The Director of the Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin Som-art Wongkhomthong M.D. gave a warm welcome to lecturers from Kunming Medical University, China. The Chinese delegates recently visited the hospital on a field trip.

AN EXCLUSIVE WINE DINNER AT THE SHERATON HUA HIN RESORT & SPA

Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa recently held an unforgettable “Geoff Merrill Wine Dinner” for discerning guests and wine lovers alike. The wine dinner event was co-sponsored by Mondo Vino, the first Aperitif Wine Bar in Hua Hin. Wine enthusiasts were welcomed and introduced to a selection of rare light wines fermented using only the natural yeast of the grape to provide a remarkable lightness and crystal clarity of flavour. The elegantly-attended event commenced with a predinner cocktail at @Black, the Sheraton’s ultimate disco place. In a fashionable atmosphere wine lovers were treated to Zardetto Private Cuvee Brut accompanied by the Director of Culinary & Service, Andreas Schimanski’s deluxe canapés and savory bites. To accompany such outstanding wines, Andreas Schimanski and his talented culinary team created a sumptuous four-course menu of international delicacies. Andeas introduced Mr. Peter Kirketerp, a Director and representative from Mondo Vino, who was the evening’s guest speaker and wine expert. Guests enjoyed the first of four beautifully executed dishes, a delicately prepared, Lobster Mango Salad sweet chilli, vanilla dressing and coriander oil. This was accompanied by the first wine of the evening a 2011 Geoff Merrill Foothills Sauvignon Blanc. This was followed Duo of Quail; pan fried quail breast, braised quail leg stewed Puy lentils with Portobello mushrooms paired with 2007 Geoff Merrill G&W Cabernet Sauvignon. Then slow roasted premium lamb loin wrapped in herb crepe with sautéed Savoy cabbage, red wine jus and rucola pesto balanced with 2005 Geoff Merrill “Reserve Shiraz”. The Reserve Shiraz was passionately described as “the best of the night”. The memorable evening ended with a specially devised dessert of chocolate raspberry gateaux served with a traditional sweet wine, the 2011 P.J. Valckenberg Gewurztraminer. This combination combined beautifully to give a fruity, sweet end to a wonderful evening.

PUTAHRACSA CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

The Famous Oktoberfest 2013 Celebration in Hua Hin

Oktoberfest at the Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa is one of the Resort’s biggest events. Authentic Bavarian German cuisine will include Bratwurst, Thueringer, Knuspriger Schweineroast Braten mit sauerkraut and mash potatoes, Roast Pork knuckle, Bavarian onion soup and much more and of course we can’t forget abou the Paulaner Hofbraeu beer. Live Entertainment will be provided by the world famous Anton & The Funny Guys as well as typical Oktoberfest fun including beer drinking contests, sawing & hammering etc. The Oktoberfest starts on November 7 - 9 at 6.00pm -11.00pm at Beer Garden and after party at the Beerhouse till early morning!

THE TOP 25 BEST LEISURE HOTELS IN ASIA

On 12th September the Team from the Putahracsa Resort Hua Hin donated stationery kits to Putahracsa has been named in the top 25 Best Leisure Hotels in Asia by Smart Travel Asia Ban Song Pi Nong School, the elementary school under the Queen’s Patronage, at Kaeng based in Hong Kong. The Award has given out for the last nine years and is based on guest Kacha, Petchburi. experiences and word of mouth.

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

About The Weather

MONTHLY AVERAGES FOR OCTOBER

he information presented below gives historical monthly average weather conditions. 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 October daytime temperatures will generally reach highs of around 31°C that’s about 88°F. At night the average minimum temperature drops down to around 25°C, that’s 76°F. In recent times has been recorded at around 261 mm, that’s the highest recorded temperature in October 10 inches. Throughout the month you can has been 40°C that’s 104°F, with the lowest expect to see rain or drizzle falling on 14 days recorded temperature 21°C, about 69°F. of the month. Relative Humidity Estimated Hours of The average daily relative humidity for Sunshine per Day October is around 79%. We calculate sunshine hours per day using our past forecast data. For October expect Precipitation The average monthly amount of precipitation the sun to shine for an average of 7 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.

Refreshed After a 2 hour Refresh Package @Spa

at Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa

Wind The average daily wind speed in October has been around 3 km/h, that’s the equivalent to about 2 mph, or 2 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 In October, 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 he Hua Hin Today team was invited to try the new very warm and would be enjoyed by all. With Refreshing Package at Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa. this temperature you can stay active in the Khun Aor, Hilton’s own marketing wonder girl personally water for extended periods of time without welcomed us to the spa and suggested we try their new feeling uncomfortable. promotion package. To be honest we did not really have the

time to do research on what treatment would be beforehand, although we knew it be good whatever it was; we just didn’t know how good! Khun Mui, one of our therapists served refreshing cool tea while we were gossiping with Khun Aor about the latest news in town. It is always nice to combine work and good company! Once my colleague and I managed to be dragged away we were brought into a treatment room beautifully decorated in Thai style with an additional outside treatment room and a sunken bath. The room is like the room of dreams. I kept notes to make sure if I ever have my own house I want a terrace just like the one they have. The first part of our treatment happened on the garden treatment room where two made up beds were waiting. Khun Mui applied herbal scrub to my whole body to remove all the dead skin. This took approximately 40 minutes after which a Vichy shower mixed with hot water started raining down to wash off the scrub. The water jets moved up and down across the body just like a massage. It was amazing! All my stress just melted away and I felt relaxed even before reaching the final part of the treatment. My skin was now smooth and glowing. My colleague and I could hardly stand up from the bed and move to the room inside to start the second part of the therapy; refreshing massage with ginger oil. The oil they use is the most exceptional I have encountered in all the treatments I have had, there is no way to explain so just take my word for it. Any attempt to explain would just sound wrong. Many places do oil massage but the way our therapist did it is rare, in a very good way. From the first minute while she was applying the ginger oil to my back she could sense with her hands where the pain and knots were located. Smooth moves and the right pressure released me from the pain. After 2 hours a hot towel with an orange aroma on my eyes and the sound of a bell woke me up. My colleague mentioned that during her massage she was trying to think of work only to wake mumbling in a dreamy conversation, this is in our mind a good sign. Excellent massage, rooms and service! If you would like to experience a five star treatment then go to the Hilton Hua Hin Resort and Spa and try the new luxurious refreshing package for 2 hours at their Spa @ 3000THB only. Special for Hua Hin Today readers - a 30% discount applies to all treatments. Hilton Spa Tel. 03 253 8999

International Housekeeping Week 2013 at Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa

Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa recently organised the ‘International Housekeeping Week 2013 Program’ to celebrate the housekeeping team’s effort in making guests’ stay smooth and perfect. The International Housekeeping Week at Hilton also paid tribute to the hotel’s outstanding housekeeping team for their commitment to excellence, great support and hard work. All team members were delighted with the special treat and recognition!

n Wednesday night my colleague and I were invited to the Molina Restaurant. It is conveniently located next to the Cicada market. The entrance has a small terrace with a few tables with candles and with a large ornate tree . When you see it you know this is an Italian restaurant! The owners of Molina told me that in few months some tables will be put on the balcony upstairs and I cannot wait to see how that will look. At this restaurant you can find a big selection of great Italian wines but of course that’s not the only thing. The food was impressive as well! For starters we had “Bruchetta with mozzarella cheese, blue cheese, honey,

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

garlic and basil” and a selection of “cold cuts” and feta cheese. This is what you call a mini feast! Also for the first time I tried blue cheese with honey and it was really delicious. The cold cuts were fantastic; I especially loved the mortadella with olives on the side. I forgot to mention that to accompanieng this was a big basket with homemade bread, olive oil and balsamic to compliment the starter. Next came the dish that I was the anticipating the most, “classic risotto with porcini mushroom”. I am in love with this dish! It had the taste of perfection! The risotto was as creamy and rich as it should be and with just the right consistency. Porcini is one of my favorite ingredients in risotto; it has a unique woody flavour and intense aroma! Molina certainly

provides the best fresh ingredients. Next dish to arrive was the “roasted lamb chop with grilled vegetables and wine reduction”. As lamb is one of my favorite meats, I really enjoyed this dish. The meat was very tender and cooked to perfection! With starters and two main courses I did not have the dessert but I have heard their “Mamma Giusy’s Tiramisu” is fantastic. Molina is a great place to start your night or a place to unwind. It definitely a place for people that love Italian wine and good food! The prices are reasonable with an average for two meal dinner with wine at 750THB per person!

Molina Italian Wine and Cuisine Tel: 089 505 1006

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

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

BANGKOK HOSPITAL DONATION FOR THE DISABLED

The Director of Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin, Som-art Wongkhomthong MD and the Public Relations and Marketing Manager Ms. Niphathon Sawangwit recently announced the donation of cash and first aid kits to the Disabled Association of Prachuab Khirikhan. Ms. Sasi-orn Phattharanansombat, the Secretary of the Chairman of the Association said that the donation will be used by the Association to benefit its opertaions.

HYATT REGENCY HUA HIN THE SECOND RUNNER UP

IN THE 19th PETCHBURI – PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN CONFEDERATION CUP

Recently, Hyatt Regency Hua Hin was the second runner-up in the 19th Petchburi – Prachuap Khiri Khan Confederation Cup organised by Hua Hin – Cha Am Tourist Associate. This annual football tournament helped strengthen the relationship among the hoteliers in Hua Hin and Cha Am areas.

New Director of Sales & Marketing@ Anantara Hua HIn

The newly appointed Director of Sales and Marketing, Benjawan Meksakul is a Thai national, with over 10 years of experience in hotel sales and marketing. Khun Benjawan has a proven track record with many renowned hotel brands, including The Peninsula Bangkok, Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort, Banyan Tree Phuket, Moevenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket, Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers, and Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort. Benjawan joined Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas in 2011 as Director of Sales and Marketing at Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa before being repositioned to oversee the sales and marketing team at Anantara Bangkok Sathorn. In her new role at Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa, she will oversee sales activities and continue to develop public relations initiatives promoting the resort to key markets.

NEW GENRAL MANAGER FOR ANANTARA RESORT AND SPA

Mr. Thomas Barguil has been appointed General Manager at Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa. Thomas, who is French, joins Anantara from The Residence Maldives, where he was General Manager since late 2010 during the pre-opening and opening period. Thomas has worked in the hospitality industry for almost twenty years, starting his career at the Inter-Continental in Cannes working in both Food and Beverage and Rooms. He then specialised in F&B and worked his way up through the ranks in hotels in a number of countries including Egypt, Morocco, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mauritius.

Putahracsa Team Building 2013

To build stronger bonds between departments and to emphasise the importance of teamwork, the entire staff of the Putahracsa Resort Hua Hin went on a Team Building Trip. Teamwork for staff has now been enhanced with the memories from this trip.

Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa Second Runner-Up In Thailand Bartender Championship 2013 Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa has announced the success of their talented staff member, Piyathida Chuaysamret who recently won the 2nd runner-up at Thailand Bartender Championship 2013 at BITEC Bangna, Bangkok.

Piyathida’s impressive performance, skills, presentation, taste, technique, decoration and hygiene were on display when mixing her creative drink, “Screwdriver”. As one of the Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa’s most outstanding and committed staff, she also showcasing her skills and abilities which attracted excellent scores and earned the award that made her one of the champions, and receiving the prize of “The 2nd Runner-Up of Thailand Bartender Championship 2013” in Classic Category. Hotel Manager, Sitthirat Hothongkam of Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa proudly congratulated the success of Piyathida in her achievement and confidently to invite all of the guests to experience her talents and techniques in mixing the best cocktails.

NEW BAKERY AND PASTRY @CHEF AT PUTAHRACSA

Chef Alexandre Fonteneau is the new Bakery and Pastry Chef at Ob-Oon Bakery at Putahracsa Hua Hin. Alexandre is French and has joined the Putahracsa Team after a two year assignment at the Crowne Plaza, Dubai where he held the position of Bakery Chef. Prior to this Chef Alexandre worked in various traditional French Bakeries and Patisseries in Paris, France.

In Thailand Thomas has worked at the Novotel Bangkok Siam Square, Le Meridien Phuket (which sadly closed whilst Thomas was working there, following the tsunami) and The Evason Hua Hin Resort & Spa. Thomas is married with two young daughters.

New Restaurant Manager@ Crepe & Co

Crepes & Co Hua Hin’s first Manager has returned to Bangkok and Mrs. Pinanong Santipongsak (Khun Pin) has taken the reins of chain newest branch as Restaurant Manager. Khun Pin is a native of Prachuab Kirikhan and a graduate from Phetchaburi’s Rajabhat University majoring in Hotel & Tourism industry. She brings many years of food and beverage experience gained in 5 star hotels such as the exclusive boutique resort, Six Senses Hideaway in Pranburi as well as the luxury resort Intercontinental Hua Hin. Her high standards of personalized service and dedication to excellence with knowledge of the regional market helpsl enhance Crepes & Co. Plus her customers’ service experience helps even further. It is with great pleasure that Khun Pin is welcomed the team of this award winning restaurant chain!

New Chef@Bell’s at Black Lotus

Peter Mosselman was born in Johannesburg, South Africa but then the family moved to Stuttgart Germany where he spent his growing years. He describes his nationality as very mixed with a Dutch Father and a Mother who is half Australian and half German. In 2005 he finished his apprenticeship as a Cook and Chef working in many different restaurants and catering services. He moved to Thailand in 2007 and worked for 6 months for the Dusit Resort in Hua Hin making pizzas. Peter then opened his own restaurant next to the Dusit at the VIP Condochain to cater for the Webster university students who stay there. In 2008 he opened an Italian Restaurant in Soi 94 called Bella Mia. In 2011 Peter sold this restaurant and opened another Italian Restaurant called La Familia in Soi 102 but this business has now been sold with his appointment as the new Chef at Bell’s. Peter commented that expats around Hua Hin know him for his good pizzas!

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

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*ASK FOR CONDITIONS....FREE QUOTES..COMPARE!! EMAIL: franckracinesiamconsulting@gmail.com MOBILE: 085 9622232 WEBSITE: www.siam-consulting.asia 250/129 SOI 94 -PETCHKASEM ROAD (opposite Smile Hotel). 77110 HUA HIN PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

HALLOWEEN 31st OCTOBER C

elebrating Halloween is not very popular in Thailand yet but in the past few years, especially in Bangkok, different bars and clubs have started celebrating this tradition.

Halloween is an occasion for dressing up, getting together and having a goulish party. Hua Hin is still new to this idea however we thought for the October issue we would share with you some tips about how to make a great Halloween party for the kids and the grown up “kids” at home. Follow our ideas for Halloween table decorations , cocktail presentations , food recipes and kids Halloween treat-bags. There are also easy Halloween outfits you can make so that this Halloween is a memorable one for everyone. But First the History of Halloween. Halloween originates dates back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced sow-in). The Celts lived 2,000 years ago in the lands that are now Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom and Northern France. They celebrated their new year each November 1st. This day marked the end of summer and the harvest and the beginning of the dark, cold winter. This was a time of year that was often associated with death. Halloween was a time of celebration of all things “dark” and superstitious.

Fashion & Lifestyle

Place baking powder, olive oil, salt and bit of water in the sculpted into scary faces or using black grapes inserted into middle of that volcano shape. lychees to make it look as though the eyeballs are floating in the Use your hands and start to mix all the ingredients together punch bowl. slowly until there is a pastry ball shape. Take a bowl, put the pastry in it and with knife make the shape of the cross on the top of it. Cover with a towel to keep a little humidity and keep it for at least 6 hours in a dark corner of your kitchen. To be safe you can prepare the pastry in the morning to make the pizza at night. Spread out the pastry on the table and spread a little of butter or olive oil on the surface. Start to make a round shape with your fingers. Then use a rolling pin to spread the pizza according to your taste, thin for a crispy pastry or thick for a soft and airy pastry. Spread the tomato sauce that you have previously prepared on the top. Top with anything you like such as mushrooms, veggies, ham, anchovies, black olives or Italian sausage. Place in the Oven at 225C for 20 to 25minutes, depending upon the power of your oven Remove the pizza and spread mozzarella over it. Put it back in the oven for another 5mins. Keep an eye on the pizza, the mozzarella has to melt not to burn. *If seafood is added it must be cleaned and boiled before it is added to your pizza. *If using Parma Ham, add it to the cooked pizza with some rocket salads just before to serving.

Celts believed that on the night before the New Year, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred. On the night of October 31st they celebrated Samhain, when it was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth. In addition to causing trouble and damaging crops, Celts thought that the presence of the otherworldly spirits made And if you don’t have time to make it yourself, visit Gianni it easier for the Druids or Celtic priests to make predictions Restaurant, 42-2/3 Dechanuchit Rd. Hua Hin, to enjoy his about the future. For a people entirely dependent on the volatile yummy pizzas and delicious pasta dishes. natural world, these prophecies were an important source of comfort and direction during the long dark winter. Many ideas from these times still survive in the United States and in other Western countries. Halloween is one of them. But How Did We Get the Name Halloween? In the 8th Century, the Catholic Church declared November 1st to be All Saints’ Day. The church calendar already had a number of days honouring saints. November 1st was picked to be the day to honour saints who didn’t already have a day named in their honour. The mass that the Catholic Church celebrated on November 1st was called ‘Allhallowmas’. This meant “mass of all the hallowed [saintly people.]” It was commonly called “All Hallows’ Day.” The night before became known as Allhallowe’en, short for the “evening before All Hallows’ Day”. It was then shortened to what we now call Halloween. Why Do People Dress Up as Ghosts, Goblins, Vampires, and Other Scary Creatures?

The people who started this Halloween party business many years ago believed that if they appeared scary, they would scare Skull Sangria away the spirits of the dead who were roaming the earth on All Hallows’ Eve. These people also carried food to the edge of Giving your Sangria a scary look is easy using apples that are town and left it there, hoping the spirits would eat that food and not come to raid the village. Trick-Or-Treating: Trick-or-treating has been around for quite a while in America. However now it’s mostly about treats for kids. Along with other Halloween customs, trick-or-treating comes from Ireland and Great Britain and has to do with the souls of the dead coming back to earth. People would go from house to house asking for “soul cakes,” little baked items that people inside the houses would give in exchange for having a prayer said for their soul. People would also leave food and drink outside their houses in the hope that the spirits roaming the earth would take the offering and leave the house alone. It was said that both the people asking for the “soul cakes” and the spirits who didn’t find any food or drink outside a house would play a trick, or practical joke, on the people who lived in that house. Some people still play practical jokes however most people prefer to give treats to the kids who say, “Trick or Treat!” Scary But Yummy Pizzas: To make a Halloween pizza at home for four people follow these wonderful tips of Khun Gianni from Gianni Restaurant: Ingredients: 500 grams of flour for pizza 20 grams of baking powder. 1 pinch of salt. 2 tablespoons of olive oil. A little bit of water at room temperature. Your choice of toppings, including mozzarella cheese. Tomato sauce. Method: Place all the flour on a clean surface like a kitchen counter or a table and create a volcano-like shape in the centre of the flour.

DIY Trick or treat Bags: DIY your own treat bag for all the kids in your neighborhood: Ideas such as easy to make ghost lollipops made with tissues and black/orange ribbons, candies put inside a rubber glove or a paper bag with scary prints on top. DIY your own outfits and accessories: *Monster claws gloves *DIY baby clothes -ghosts, pumpkins or skeletons, on your clothes. *Rip an old white T-shirt to make a skull shape on your back, or do the distressed look to black t-shirts and leggings.

Higher Alcohol Prices From 3Rd September

rinkers are now facing higher prices on beer, wine and liquor after midnight Tuesday 3rd September, following cabinet approval on new alcohol tax rates. The Excise Department has ordered its officials to be on alert to prevent the smuggling of untaxed alcohol and the hoarding of liquor following the decision. The alcohol tax is divided into two parts product value and alcohol content. The maximum tax for beer will be maintained at 60% of the product’s value, but the effective tax rate per litre of 100% alcohol content will rise from 100 baht to 300 baht. The tax hike will effectively drive up beer prices by about three to seven baht per bottle. For wine, products worth less than 600 baht per bottle will be exempt from the value-based tax, while those priced above 600 baht will be taxed at 36% of retail value. In terms of alcohol content, all wines will now be taxed at 1,000 baht per litre of pure alcohol, up from 100 baht. Liquor prices will increase 7-15%, depending on alcohol content. The Finance Ministry released full details of the new tax policy on 4th September. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Kittiratt Na-Ranong said the ministry had ordered the department to monitor the sales of alcoholic beverages following the tax overhaul. The department is responsible for monitoring liquor standards and preventing the smuggling of untaxed alcoholic beverages.

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

The Magic Tree Doctor

A New Children’s Book with a Message

he talented children of the Hua Hin BECC School have contributed to a new book, The Magic Tree Doctor. This new children’s book was given its first public airing on Saturday 7th September in Hua Hin. The Magic Tree Doctor is authored by Neil Ray and illustrated with drawings by children from the British Education Children’s Centre. Introduced by the book’s sponsor, Astrid Bakker of Innovative Eco Management (I.E.M), Neil explained the origins of the idea to an audience of teachers, parents, and children as well as Members and the President of The Royal Hua Hin Rotary Club. Also present were visitors and the media. Displaying their support for the venture, the World Wildlife Fund Thailand, had a counter of badges and information on tiger protection. Chang Garden Resort of Chiang Rai also supported the project.

someone called ‘The Doctor’. ‘Nosy Tree’ passes on information whilst ‘Clever Tree’ shares his knowledge. Overseeing all is ‘Grumpy Tree’. The book has both English and Thai text so it can be used in language lessons as well as a host of This book has a purpose. Woven into the story are other purposes. important messages about energy conservation, To conclude the event, Neil Ray praised the work water sustainability and wildlife protection to of the children and spoke of a new adventure for name just three. It is set in a mango orchard The Magic Tree Doctor when he goes to sea and irrigation project near Hua Hin, and features addresses the topics of overfishing and shark fin characterised trees which discuss the arrival of harvesting. The book will be on sale directly from the publishers for 119 Baht, but initially several thousand copies are to be donated to schools across Thailand with budgets that cannot always stretch to new books. For information on book purchases please contact Nichas-Ray Publishing by email: neilr549@gmail. com

‘CONQUEST OF PARADISE’

For information on I.E.M and the irrigation system please visit: www. iem-apac.com The WWF website is www.panda.org, and Chang Garden is www.chang-garden.com

High Speed Cruising on the Hua Hin Sea Explorer

t’s Hua Hin’s latest addition to the already vast range of tourist attractions, but this time it’s maritime. It’s fast, comfortable, safe and convenient. It offers day and overnight trips from the Hua Hin beachfront to see Islands, hidden and secluded beaches, views of the seafront you are unlikely to have seen before as well as another way to visit Pattaya. It’s called the Hua Hin Sea Explorer. Hua Hin and Cha-Am Today was invited on a ‘test cruise’ to see what is on offer and to experience first-hand what visitors to Hua Hin (and locals too) can look forward to enjoying. The Sea Explorer is probably best described as a high speed ocean going cruiser, but more of the technical details later. She (all boats are female) was delivered on 30th August this year by road transport from the boat builders in Pattaya. September 9th saw the Buddhist blessing ceremony for the boat, crew and operating Company. During the remainder of the month, trials to trim and test were completed in addition to adding important finishing touches and crew training. Now she’s ready to rumble! This has been a labour of love for the owners, including Belgian Harry Patry, a major shareholder who has vast experience in operating charter boat operations for over 10 years in the South of France. Harry was our host on the test cruse which was also enjoyed by staff from the Hyatt Regency and the Anatasila Resorts. Harry described a long and detailed approval process so that all the necessary assurances could be provided to the various authorities involved with full and detailed insurance for passengers being an understandable requirement. This included discussions with Mr. Weera Sriwathanatrakoon, the Governor of Prachuap Khirikhan Province.

The Sea Explorer’s home is at the Pranburi Marina however passengers can embark from the beach front at the Anatasila Resort (about 5 kilometres) South of Hua Hin. We also picked up

the Hyatt staff from the beach directly seaside of that Resort. She is specifically designed with a shallow draft and just one of the three powerful outboards gently and carefully ‘backs up’, allowing passengers to easily climb abroad after wading out in knee depth water.

and looking very nautical in their blue and white stripped sailors gear.

Of course safety is a given with the boat fully equipped with lifesaving equipment, fire extinguishers, radios, GPS and speed. Harry reminded us that in some waters (not around Hua Hin, but nor far from Pattaya) piracy can be an issue. However with a cruising speed of 40 – 50 KPH and a top speed of up to 75 KPH it’s hard to imagine any pirate boat being able to pose a threat! Hua Hin also is protected by a variety of army and navy units so a helicopter or even a naval frigate is generally not far away. This sort of reassurance hardly seems necessary, but it may still be nice to know.

OUR TRIP We boarded the Sea Explorer on a rather dull but pleasant morning and first impressions were – Wow! It’s something like a giant speedboat. The welcoming sounds of “Conquest of Paradise” were immediately recognisable through the boat’s sound system. This is a 1992 song recorded by Vangelis with a nautical flavour and a stirring anthem adopted by a number of sporting teams and events. If you want to hear more just visit the Company website (details below) and you will Many of us have never really had the opportunity hear and understand just how appropriate this is! to survey the coastline from the ocean. We often read about our region’s ‘beautiful coastline After gently pulling away from the beach on one and beaches’ however this is really the way motor all three motors were engaged and the Sea to appreciate these natural attractions. You’ll Explorer very quickly rounded the Khao Takiab also see some impressive resorts and private headland towards the Hyatt pick-up point. residences that you never knew were there. Additionally many small coves and untouched If you remember outboard motors as noisy, smelly, secluded beaches come into view. vibrating and generally an unpleasant form of boat propulsion you are in for a very pleasant surprise. Approaching Sam Roi Yot we passed close These motors seem to hum rather than roar. It’s to many small islands which will provide the like comparing the sound of a modern motor opportunity for a swim, snorkelling and perhaps scooter with that made by the exhaust of a Harley checking out if the monkeys are interested. Our Davidson. Some may like the Harley sound, but trip was really a ‘test run’ without these visits on not when there are three of them and you want to the agenda but that will certainly be part of the real relax, have a conversation and enjoy the ride. So cruising experience in the future. Also calling in that’s the first of our many positive reports, she’s for lunch at one of the beachside restaurants and not too loud! river cruising will be a feature. After picking up the group of exuberant passengers we headed south towards Sam Roi Yot. Our onboard hostess Khun Mai introduced the other four Thai crew, including Captain Khun Sompob Aonpraiwaan. He has a wealth of local knowledge including about safe beach access. After all Hua Hin is ‘Stone Head’; not all shallow waters have only sand below, Harry said the Captain knows every rock underwater and is a local legend. The crew were all eager to be passenger friendly

On the return trip to our embarkation point the ‘skipper’ was eager to put the boat through its paces. The Sea Explorer undertook some high speed manoeuvres without any hint of instability and without any passenger discomfort; very impressive. I recalled some advice offered by others before the trip about how the journey was likely to be unpleasant because at speed the boat would be ‘bouncing’ and the ride would be a jarring experience. Not so; even in choppy and windy conditions the ride can be described with one word – SMOOTH. Our crew offered seasick pills before commencement but that was not an issue for anyone on board. No wallowing in the swell just cutting through the swell and more like an aircraft ride than a boat at sea.

to complete your conquest of the ocean around the region! That is certainly the feeling as you once again listen to the theme music as you return to the beach. We had a great day on the ocean and look forward to another opportunity to experience what’s on offer from the crew at Hua Him Sea Explorer. Check out the (still developing) web site for more information:

www.huahinseaexploer.com

WHAT’S ON OFFER? There are three trips available and described in more detail on the Company website: 1. One Day Day Trip To Sam Roi Yot – 110 kilometres. Visiting Ko Sai (Lion Island), Ko Sadaao (Turtle Island), up the river at Mae Nam Pran Buri, Monkey Island, Dolphin Bay, Prayanakoren Cave. Departing 9.30 AM, returning at 4.00 PM. 2. Two Day Prachuap Khirikhan Tour – 220 kilometres. Visiting unseen scenery, snorkelling, swimming, relaxing on the beach with good food and drinks and staying one night at a beach front hotel in Prachuap khirikhan. At the second day visiting Sam Roi Yot National Park. Departure 9,30 am , returning 3.00 PM the second day. 3. Two Day Pattaya Golf Tour – 220 kilometres An early departure from Hua Hin to the Ocean Front Marian at Jomteim Beach Pattaya. Play golf on the afternoon of the first day and on the morning of the second day. Returning to Hua Hin around 5.00 PM. However these options are only those currently planned by the Company. You may wish to discuss and plan your own ‘conquest of paradise’. This could be any Club, corporate group or just a group of friends or family members. It’s also worth mentioning that there is likely to be some changes to the tours above as the experience of the operators and the preferences of customers is developed.

SOME TECHNICAL DETAILS Builders: NPSK Boar Co. Ltd, Pattaya Thailand, NPSK 470 Commercial, Design: Single hulled ‘V’ Design, Dimensions: Length: 14.32 metres, Beam 3.49 metres, Engines: 3 x 250 HP 4 Stroke So if many regard Hua Hin and surrounds as Honda Outboards Fuel Capacity: 400 litres, ‘Paradise’, the Sea Explorer now provides a way Seating Capacity: 40 You know that rather unpleasant experience of feeling of like you swaying from side to side and still ‘all at sea’ well after return to dry land? It doesn’t happen after a trip on this boat.

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

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

Sale / Rent / Mortgage / Sell on Consignment Properties Work Permit & Visa Service Car & Motorbike Rental Airline Ticket & Golf Booking Please find contact us at www.star-property-huahin.com or Call us at : tel +66 (0) 81 8593118, 66 (0) 32 530 123 e-mail : info@star-property-huahin.com

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

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

Amari Chef Excels In International Culinary Competition

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

Swedish Association in Hua Hin: Membership Meeting 31 October

It will be an exceptional and memorable meeting. We promise! Hotel Hilton will do what they can to make this meeting their best so far.

in February, including bus trip to Ikea, Lucia celebrations at Dusit Thani Hotel and some other activities.

Split pea soup and pancakes will be served. Participants wishing something else will be offered sandwich. Hua Hin Today will attend the meeting. This has long been a strong desire on our part and one of the goals for 2013. The magazine will of course talk about their focus and activities. However, they will also answer our questions about what is happening in Hua Hin. Additionally, M.D. Birger Rexed will present a company who is supplying medical information and advice from Thailand, in Swedish, to patients in Sweden. Above all, he will tell us how he managed to get through the Thai bureaucracy. Perhaps also the Swedish residents in Thailand can utilize this service! Barbro Rehnberg will, with the kind assistance of her husband Per, present proposals for trips to Burma, Saigon and Kuala Lumpur. In addition, the participants will get the latest news on immigration issues.

n 9th September 2013, Mr. Natthaphol Pholyiem, one of the best chefs from Amari Hua Hin, and other top quality chefs from Hua Hin’s deluxe hotels, namely Hilton, Marrakesh, G Hotel, Springfield and Sheraton, celebrated their success from the recent international culinary competition in Pattaya.

Information will also be given about coming meetings and events, until the annual meeting

Representing Hua Hin as a member of the team entitled, Culinary Academy Hua Hin, Mr. Natthaphol was ranked third in the competition and won a trophy awarded by Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The team celebrated their success at Shoreline Beach Club, Amari Hua Hin with the Hua Hin Mayor Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul and municipal staff. A member of Pranburi Provincial Council who represented Mr. Chalermchai Sri-ona Member of the Thai Parliament, gave the Mayor a medal of honour for his constant moral support for the winning team. The biggest international competition of gastronomic and service industries in Thailand, the Pattaya City Culinary Cup showcases professional chefs and judging committee members from Thailand and many countries: Singapore, Taiwan, Malaysia, Hong Kong, the Czech Republic, Australia, Myanmar, England, China, Cambodia and South Korea.

THAILAND TOURIST AUTHORITY COMES TO TOWN

Five Regions Festival in Cha-Am

he Tourism Authority of Thailand had a very visible presence in Cha-Am during September. Coinciding with the 15th Shell Eating, Bird Watching and Squid Catching Festival started on 13th September, the Travel to Five Regions of Thailand @ Cha-Am Festival was held from Sept 13-15. The opening ceremony took place at Raya Resort Cha-Am in conjunction with trade talks for tourism business operators.

During this period seminars were held at the Regent Beach Resort and Raya Resort providing the opportunity for the providers and ‘buyers’ of tourism services such as travel agents the opportunity to discuss, understand and learn from each other how the tourism industry is developing and what the future holds. There were also complimentary tours for participating buyers to visit tourist attractions in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan and Samut Songkhram provinces. A highlight was a Consumer Fair on the beach for people to shop for tours, car rental and accommodation packages, air tickets and local handicrafts. This was held on the Cha-Am beach, where individual displays were on show to the public to stimulate domestic tourism, create interregional links of tourism and highlight each region’s uniqueness. The roadshow is touring various other venues in Thailand in the TAT new initiative designed to partially drum up domestic tourism. The five Regions are the Northern, Central, North Eastern, Southern and Eastern. The Thailand Tourism Authority chose this venue for the Festival in recognition that Cha-Am and Hua Hin are the main focus of the tourism industry of the Central Region.

his month we arranged with the Cha-Am Municipality 1 School, a government school in Cha-Am. Children attending Pratom 6/1 class were asked to write an essay in English with the the topic chosen by the teacher. Their topic was ‘ The winner was chosen by the school was Nattanich Thaisong Name: Nattanicha Thaisong How old : 12 for a teacher reply …ka Class : pratom 6/1 Name of school : Cha-am Municipality 1 school

All Swedes are invited to an exciting night at the Hilton! Swedish Association in Hua Hin

Mötesfakta

Tid: Torsdagen den 31/10 kl. 18.00 Plats: Hotel Hilton, Hua Hin Hilton bjuder på maten! Ärtsoppa och pannkakor. De som så önskar erbjuds sandwich. Dörrarna öppnas 17.15 och då bjuder Hilton på något gott att dricka. Som vanligt är entréavgiften 100 baht. Dagens program börjar 18.02. Vi beräknas vara klara 20.15. De som har bil parkerar i Hiltons garage utan kostnad. Glöm inte att få din parkeringsbiljett stämplad!

Vill du bli medlem?

Kom till nästa medlemsmöte, t.ex. den 31 oktober. Det räcker! Ingen medlemsavgift! Ta gärna med ett litet foto, så tillverkar vi ett medlemskort till dig! Vill du komma på föreningens sändlista, sänd din adress via e-post (info@svenskforeningenhuahin. se) till oss! Föreningens hemsida: www.svenskforeningenhuahin.se

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

Courtroom for aggrieved foreigners opens on 23 September 2013

he Hua Hin Today Team is happy to share a new experience you can have in Hua Hin with Tarot Card readings at Deya Deli.

Two of us had Tarot Card readings, and we thought we have to write about it even though we knew we would have to reveal something of ourself in the process. Deya Deli has been touted as one of the greatest Mediterranean Restaurants in Hua Hin, but it also happens to have a very special resident artist, restaranteur and tarot card reader in the form of the owner’s son Jaime. Jaime is a very talented artist but he has also started applying his skills as a Tarot card reader after many years of getting to know the cards. We love anything new in Hua Hin so we thought it would be great to see what Jaime would find out about our inner workings and current life.

he Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) approved the establishment of the court Tuesday 17 September 2013. The court will be a branch of the Samut Prakan provincial court and will handle cases of crimes against foreigners at the airport. It will be the first court of its kind in the country.

But before getting into how messed up we are (according to the cards), let us describe a short history of Tarot cards, facts about Tarot readings and also find out what the Tarot cards actually tells you.

History of the Tarot

Telling the history of Tarot cards is tricky because many myths and mysteries surround the birth of the cards and nobody truly knows where they originally came from. The word Tarot comes from the Italian word Tarocchi which apparently does not have any real meaning but refers to the original use of the cards as a card game called Taroc. Some say that the cards were brought into Europe by gypsies, while there are plenty of other beliefs that place the cards for the first time, in the hands of Chinese, Indian, or Egyptians. No matter who was the first to invent the Tarot cards, it seems that Europeans were the most enthusiastic users of the system.

Synchronity Principle’s and/or even Quantum Physics with a dash of “inner guides” guiding the way. Nobody has proven it one way or another. Its just one of those things that works and we do not know why.

So what happened to us? As a talented artist Jaime, uses a drawing of his based on the layout of the Tarot card reading as well as Buddhism, Hinduism and Jaime-“ism” as a base. I thought the reading was spot on. During the very detailed reading it emerged that I am a workaholic with no life. Well it wasn’t as straight forward as that, but the message was pretty spot on. It also showed that I wanted to be like other people that can relax and let go.

Acting AOT president Pongsak Semsan said that from January to August this year, 1,980 crimes were reported at Suvarnabhumi airport, involving 1,047 suspects. Most of these were petty crimes.

AOT chairman Sita Divari said his authority had donated the space for the court and also provided it with office equipment and a video conference Suvarnabhumi director Raweewan Netarakavesystem to connect to Samut Prakan provincial sana said the courtroom, which measures 46 sq court, where judges can consider cases remotely. m, replaces a reception room on the third floor The airport court should improve the tourism of the passenger terminal. It will later be moved image of the country, reduce crimes at the airport to a permanent location on the sixth floor of the and facilitate justice, Sqd Ldr Sita said. He airport’s car park building, where it will have more added that the court will be flexible if aggrieved space, Ms Raweewan said.

New Italian Restaurant @ Molina

It is said that the Tarot can enlighten you about what is in your mind and the choices you have. The cards don’t tell you what you should do or what specifically is going to happen in your future; rather the possibilities depending on the path you take.

Our experience

foreigners wanted to leave the country early and would schedule their cases appropriately. Sqd Ldr Sita also plans to establish similar courts at Don Mueang and Phuket airports.

Northern Italian, Carlo Alberto Molina ( Carlo) with several years of professional food & beverage experience and a passion for fine wine and Italian food. Mattana Kumsa-ard ( Mink ), a professional Account Executive who believes that drinking good wine, eating good food and enjoying life is a must.

The reading takes about 40 minutes and touches on many aspects on where you are in life and your inner thoughts and where you are at the moment. I apparently need a man in my life to balance my general “nuttiness”, although Jaime did not advise where such a well-balanced man should be found. I kept joking afterwards that I was going to list myself under the classifieds ads as “Unstable workaholic looks for a stabilising man, urgently call XXX immediately”. The reading was very interesting and I would like to follow up on how I have changed in the future. Jaime also did th During the 15 century in France, the cards were my boss’s cards, which was great as I am going to used for entertainment but at the same time, use this information to my own advantage ;). the Germans also used Tarot cards for teaching people about the structure of society, as well as Jaime has started doing people’s Tarot cards by polite manners. During Medieval times, Tarot accident or by divine intervention depending on cards even suffered a ban from the church, and how you look at it. Make an appointment if you it was suggested that the cards were created want your cards read as he also runs Deya Deli. by Satan and should not be used. The cards As the Tarot card reading is not on the menu, a were used most by high class society and the generous donation is appreciated. Of course be Media Meet and great with Anantara Hua Hin’s brand new GM Thomas Barguil and Director of Sales ban against them did not last long. A French polite and buy a drink whilst @ Deya Deli. & Marketing Benjawan Meksakul. clergyman, Antoine Court de Gēbelin, was the first May your future spin bright and hopefully does not person to mention Tarot cards with an element of spirituality in a book written in 1781. However it include a lack of free time or social life! was not until later on that fortune tellers started to Deya Deli use Tarot cards to predict the future. The first one Address: Petchakasem Rd. next to Villa Market to do that was a certain Mr. Alliette from Paris in Tel: 089 927 1255 1785 who started using the cards to predict future events affecting the person for whom the reading he ‘Thailand Tourist Police Road Show The campaign is aimed at ensuring police was made. 2013’ has been launched to boost tourists’ readiness for security protection at tourist Tarot card readings confidence in their safety and convenience. attractions nationwide, especially during the high A tarot reader will usually have one dedicated Tourist Police Chief Major General Roi Engkapairoj tourist season at the end of the year. It consists of pack of cards that they use for readings and feel along with the Director General of the Department five Tourist Police mobile stations, each equipped bonded to. However it is not just about the pack of of Tourism recently presided over the launching with a toilet, sofa bed, kitchen, LCD TV, security cards but the gift that the tarot reader possesses. ceremony of the campaign at the Railway Park, surveillance system, office equipment, an ipad and wifi for searching tourist information. They must be perceptive to connect with the Bangkok. person having the reading. A person will enter a The mobile stations will be sent to four reading and choose certain cards from a shuffled tourist cities, namely, Ayutthaya, Phuket, pack which they then turn over in sequence. The Pattaya, and Hua Hin. order of the cards, along with the perception of The project is expected to boost the the tarot reader, will enable the messages and image of Thai tourism and help the symbols to be conveyed. country raise 2 trillion baht in tourism It is said that Tarot cards work to tell the inner revenue annually during the next five workings of people and their future due to Jung’s years as targeted by the government.

Tourist Police road Show Heading for Hua Hin

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

DUSIT THANI HUA HIN RESORT

It’s Not Pretentious; It’s Gracious

his is a first for Hua Hin & Cha-Am Today; the opportunity to be a ‘virtual guest’ at one of the Region’s premier resorts for an overnight experience. Our thanks to all the management and staff and especially to Willem Hagedoorn, Director of Rooms, for his generous approach to our visit.

Driving into the Dusit Thani the first thing you notice is the row of palm trees which are tall with distinctive pale trunks. The drive is past a grassy field and I recognised the white sight screens used for cricket matches. Then past tennis courts and you feel as if you are entering an aristocratic English estate. Through the understated entrance to the Resort and then we were ushered to the Club Lounge where our welcome from the staff and management awaited. The Club Lounge offers the opportunity to relax and enjoy refreshments, very much appreciated especially if you are feeling a little jet lagged or suffering after a long journey. In our case this was only a drive from Cha-Am (15 minutes), hardly an arduous trip but it was pleasant to feel recognised as a valued guest before settling into the room.

Guests from overseas would appreciate the Thailand guidebook to peruse and of course information about what is available, both within the suite, within the resort and how to explore the Region. If you just want to relax ‘at home’ there are two televisions (lounge and bedroom) with numerous stations as well as a vast selection of movies if that’s your mood. To make that experience even more pleasant there is every type of room service available as well as a very extensive range of drinks and snacks from the mini bar. On arrival fresh flowers and fruit added that special touch that is always appreciated.

The bathroom (a suite in itself) was a personal favourite, especially the very large free-standing tub, but that was saved for later! If a quick shower to refresh is what you need, the shower recess has a handmade layered glass recess and dual shower heads with ample pressured hot water. Bathroom accessories included many large (fluffy) towels, a variety of soaps, shampoos and body lotions and afterwards there were towelling gowns and ‘slippers’ for personal comfort.

The suite was decorated in a classic style of dark wood cushioned furniture and accessories too many to mention. As a fan of wooden flooring I noticed a central insert of timber in both the Club Lounge and suite.

To summarise, the suite lacked nothing in either ambience, comfort, amenities, accessories or but safe to say the variety is staggering with visual appeal. You can easily feel ‘at home’ with many international and Thai culinary experiences a feeling of warmth and casual atmosphere being awaiting. We met the relatively recently arrived my response to what was on offer. Food and Beverage manager Andreas Herzig. It was hard to ‘escape’ this somewhat seductive He’s in the process of reviewing what is on offer suite, however time to explore! The Resort and promising some surprises. grounds offer many varied experiences, some After an hour or so wandering around the grounds about the pool and beach but others about dry it was time to return to the suite to relax before land. Here’s a sample of what we found: dining. As the evening approached the sounds of H Stables and the resident horses and ponies birds returning to their home in the trees as well as offer a chance to pursue your equestrian skills. traditional Thai music from an ensemble located in Apparently the Resort was originally called the a pavilion alongside the Thai restaurant below was Dusit Thani Polo Resort. It’s easy to imagine polo a very pleasant background as the Resort lighting as a sport of the aristocracy being played on the took over. Once again sitting out on the balcony grounds. We met a number of friendly residents with a cold pre dinner drink was my choice for including ‘Vanilla’, ‘Maytree’ and ‘Season’. relaxation and contemplation. H The sports field with football goals but also Dinner was at the Resort main restaurant known awaiting the annual cricket match held around simply as ‘The Restaurant’. The restaurant offers Songkran (April). We understand this is a six a a different ‘format’ for dining each evening and side international competition which attracts in the next month’s edition you will find out more players from a variety of countries where this sport about this experience. Monday night is carvery is close to a religion. night, our dining experience complete with a H The Fitness Centre offers all the training fine bottle of imported Chardonnay. This was a equipment that you need if staying fit and ‘buffed’ perfect conclusion to the evening before returning is important. Squash Courts reminded me of my to our ‘new home’. Our thanks to Khun Chan own (limited) sporting background, complete with for providing her personal service in a friendly, all the equipment you may need to ‘borrow’ if you efficient and unobtrusive way. are not prepared. However before retiring, I couldn’t resist the H The Royal Dusit Ballroom is a huge multi- temptation to try out the bathtub together with a functional facility. During our visit the TATA Dealers nightcap. Reclining up to my neck in warm water were holding a conference there. We had a sneak ensured a good night’s sleep was to come. My preview for the evening’s performance. Looked only complaint ……….. no bubble bath! like a good night to come! Rising early for another full day, breakfast in the H Lots of grassed areas including tracks for joggers but also gardens and trees for those just wanting to stretch their legs and enjoy nature.

As a matter of trivia I would say that in both cases these were Australian species. Don’t quote me, but I think the Club lounge was a timber known as Brushbox (Tristiana Conferta) and the insert in the suite was Western Australian Jarrah (Eucalyptus Marginata). Having said that, I know that some South East Asian timber is very similar in appearance to these species. In any case I always appreciate the warmth and individuality of timber flooring which adds real quality to any décor.

Wining and dining is another experience to be savoured by guest and visitors alike. This is not the time for descriptions of all these dining possibilities

Or should I say rooms? Our Club Suite was something akin to a one bedroom luxury condo with separated lounge, kitchenette, bedroom and bathroom and spacious balconies (2). I have a particular dislike for rooms (including hotel rooms) which lack an ‘open feel’, that is the windows are very small or there is no opportunity to see the surrounds even if the view is not special; perhaps mini claustrophobia? We were on the 7th floor with double sliding glass doors from both the lounge and bedroom. No fear of feeling enclosed here, but what about the outlook? Panoramic views of the resort grounds across the huge swimming pool towards the beach and open ocean meant that taking time out to sit outside on the balcony offered as calming experience and a great opportunity to ‘settle in’ and to see at least a part of what is on offer.

Restaurant was the perfect start with continued genuinely friendly service. It doesn’t matter what your preferred style of breakfast may be, it’s on offer and delicious. If you are in a hurry, it’s efficient and convenient or if you have the time to relax, the surroundings will only help. Check out is also efficient, organised and without that sometimes painful wait that I have experienced elsewhere in the past, especially if time is an issue. I have to admit that typically I’m not a five star sort of person. I really don’t like the sort of intrusion and protocol that seems to be demanded in that environment. However at the Dusit I found myself settling in and really relaxing. After only one night I was feeling at home (a theme of this report), destressed and ready for more. The Resort is often the choice for visiting VIPs, including Members of the Thai Royal family (the Crown Prince is coming soon) and recent guest have included the King and Queen of Malaysia. As a non-aristocratic mere commoner, I wouldn’t expect to feel comfortable in that sort of company, but it was easy. Once again thanks for the welcoming genuine service and friendly approach to our visit, it was a pleasure to experience luxury in such a stately and relaxing atmosphere. Footnote: After returning to my humble abode a polite request was received by email for some feedback. I guess this is a standard way for many Resorts to gauge how they are travelling and to review any areas that may be deficient. It was my pleasure to offer full marks in every category. However nowhere for me to suggest bubble bath for that very minor request!

Of course this only just a sample. You will also find kids’ play areas (inside and on the beach), salons, boutique shops, the spa and even the Swedish Consulate on site. Perhaps he is the chaperone for the Swedes to celebrate ‘St Lucia Day’ at the Resort on 14th December. That’s not to mention swimming pools, natural ponds and pavilions. Each of these deserves an individual description.

NEW GYM IN TOWN POWERFIT 102

here is a new Gym open up on Soi 102, owned by Dean & Cake. POWERFIT 102 operates slightly differently from other gyms we have seen. Powerfit use what’s called “Functional Fitness”. What is Functional Fitness? Functional Fitness means that the exercise helps your body to function better, stronger and easier.

Additionally the gym is not your typical, linear Health Club or Body Building type of gym, but a “Play Ground” of many different kinds of equipment, objects, toys and routines. Dean states that at “at POWERFIT 102 you will not get frustrated or bored with your routine… because we don’t have any “routines”.

Trainer and Yoga Instructor. This is a pair that is brimming with health and can help you achieve the results you desire and deserve much as they have done. Cake and Dean are also trained in post rehabilitation exercise therapy and can help those with loss of mobility that has been the result of injury, surgery or body part replacement. Every class, every session is different and Nutritional guidance for weight loss and weight challenging. Their WOD’s, (Workouts of the day) gain is also available. are designed to push clients to their limits, both Opening Promotional rates for the gym are now: in body and mind, developing strength and agility Daily Gym rate: 200 THB, Weekly Gym rate: 800 in a little as 15 minutes. The gym does have a THB, 1 Month: 1,600 THB, 3 Months: 4,800 THB good variety of Free Weights for traditional weight (4,560 THB - 5% discount), 6 Months: 9,600 THB training, an Olympic Bench press, a real plate (8,640 THB - 10% discount), 1 year: 19,200 THB loaded heavy duty 45 degree leg press, squat (15,680 THB- 20% discount) rack, various benches and a full line of dumbbells Most Classes are included in membership dues. from up to 30kgs. BUT they still emphasize overall Special classes and seminars may include extra body development even while using free weights. costs. Personal Training: 1200THB per session. They also have Yoga classes for those so inclined. They also do boot camps the rates are: 3 week Dean has over 25 years’ experience as a Martial Boot Camp Challenge: 3500THB, 6 week Boot Artist/Self Defense Instructor, Professional Camp Challenge: 6000THB, Minimum 6 people Strength and Conditioning Coach, Personal per Challenge.

If this is all the motivation you need to get started to train. The good news is that readers of Hua Hin Today get a 5% discount on the Monthly Rate. (All you have to do is to mention that you are a Hua Hin Today reader) POWERFIT 102, Powerfit Tel: 032 900 533 www.lifebalancethailand.com

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

SANTORINI FANTASTIC WATER FANTASY “Santorini Park’s aquatic options will entice guests with innovative offerings from Polin Waterparks

and Pool Systems, a world leader in the aquatics industry”

n 20th September members of the media from Bangkok and Cha-Am & Hua Hin Today were invited to a ‘sneak preview’ of Cha-Am’s latest attraction, the Santorini Water Fantasy. Also attending the preview were representatives of the Region’s Resorts so that they can give a personal description of what guests can experience. They were also treated to a concert on the ‘water stage’ by Thia rock bands Modern Dog and Jetset’er. A VIP guest at the preview was Thailand superstar actress “Mew” Lalita (Panyophat) Sasiprapa. Also in attendance was Ms. Nasvera Tantichirasakul a Managing Director of the developers, Theme Plaza Development Co. Ltd.

Built at a cost of 100 million THB (US$3.25m), Santorini Water Fantasy is on about 4-acres (1.6 hectares). ‘Water Fantasy’ will be officially opened in later in October but is already operating and ready for business. The attraction is part of the Santorini complex, but a separate attraction some 200 metres away. You can visit one or both; it’s up to you.

What Can You Expect?

H Rides, Rides, Rides………………. There are eight main water slide rides. They vary in style: some scarier than others, some open, some enclosed in a tube. Some you ride on a mat or inflated float and some as just a ‘body slide’. Some down fierce drops and some whirling you around a vortex then ‘spitting’ you out.

H Food and drink choices to satisfy your needs and with a system of prepaying and being equipped with a water proof wrist device which is ‘swiped’ when you need to make a purchase. H A very cunning ‘Facebook’ photography arrangement unique to Thailand. You are given the option of being guided through a log-on process to your facebook account. When photographs are taken with cameras positioned at strategic positions on the rides, you have the opportunity to download directly to your facebook page. H Lockers so that your valuables stay safe and dry. H Pool-side Cabanas are available to rent. They are enclosed (air-conditioned) with an outdoor ‘terrace’ and their own bathroom. Great if you what some respite or are just watching others getting wet. H Shopping for the latest fashion gear for swimming or pool-side leisure clothing.

The signature ride would probably be the ‘King Cobra’. Featuring bold red, black and white scales, the ride’s imposing veneer extends along its massive 50 feet (15.24 metres) height and 260 feet (790 metres) length. The slide features fog, sound, lights and a unique configuration that enables two riders to race along a circular path of twists, turns and surprises. Riders reach speeds of up to 32 mph (51 kmh) via water pressure of 3,875 gallons (14,668 litres) per minute through open and closed tubes. The ride ends just after they endure a heart-pounding plunge of nearly Where is Santorini Water Fantasy? 25 feet (8 metres) down a 50 degree slope which ends at speed and sending you up a final slope One of the big advantages is that it is easy and convenient to visit especially from Cha-Am. It’s on towards a huge cobra mouth. the main Bangkok – Cha-Am/Hua Hin Highway, There are also more gentle rides on an inflated about 5 kilometres travelling from Bangkok before tube along a flowing stream and other water born reaching Cha-Am on the right hand side. You ways for children or the less adventurous to enjoy will see the Santorini Ferris Wheel as a landmark themselves. on the Highway with Water Fantasy being less H A HUGE swimming pool with man made obvious and behind the complex. waves and watchful ‘lifesavers’ standing by. Opening Times? Lifejackets and flotation equipment is available. For the month of October open 9.00 am to 9.00 pm; for November open 10.00 am to 6.30 pm. On the weekend open from 9.00 am to 9.00 pm (subject to change). Santorini Water Fantasy is the second of three water parks that will be one more reason to visit the Region. We already have the Black Mountain Water Park and the Vana Nava Hua Hin Water Jungle is due to open in 2014. However it will be hard for visitors travelling from Bangkok to go past this fantastic opportunity to get wet, be thrilled and just have fun.

Some Other Facts:

H A further 8 acres at the site is earmarked for a three-star resort.

n stroke play, a player’s ball comes to rest on the apron (fringe) of the putting green. A large amount of sand has been splashed out of the bunker and lies on both the apron and the putting green.

Question 1: May a player remove sand that lies on the apron of the green that is on their line of play? Question 2: May a player remove sand that lies on the putting green that is on their line of play?

Question 3: If a player moves their ball while removing sand that is on the apron of the putting green what is the ruling? Answer 1: No., Answer 2: Yes., Answer 3: The player incurs a total penalty of two strokes. Rule 13-2. Definition of Loose Impediments;

Sand and loose soil are loose impediments on the putting green, but not elsewhere.

Note: A single act resulted in two ua Hin Women’s Club will host a Rules being breached; removing gala dinner to raise fund for the sand from the apron of the putting disadvantaged and the poor in green and causing the ball to move. Part of Decision 1-4/12 rules that in Hua Hin. The event will take place on these circumstances only one penalty 5th October 2013 at Hilton Hua Hin Resort and Spa from 6 p.m. A ticket applies. costs 2,000 Baht and proceeds will be Question 4: A player’s ball comes spent on charities supported by the to rest on the apron of the green. In Club to help the poor and construction order to identify it she moves it slightly of a new building for patients of Hua to check her identification mark and Hin Hospital. returns it to the exact spot without taking her finger from the ball. What is According to the Chairperson of Hua Hin Women’s Club Mrs. Lisa Uengheng, the ruling? not only do Thai people like to stay Answer 4: The player is penalised one in Hua Hin but also many foreigners. stroke. Some foreign visitors are marry Thai Note: If a player has reason to believe a ladies and settle here. To give those ball at rest is theirs and it is necessary women some assistance on legal, to move the ball in order to identify it, they may lift the ball, without penalty, in order to do so. However, to avoid incurring a penalty under Rule 18-2b(i) they must follow the procedure laid down in Rule 12-2; Before lifting the ball, the player must announce his intention to his opponent in match play or his marker or a fellowcompetitor in stroke play and mark the position of the ball. He may then lift the ball and identify it, provided that he gives his opponent, marker or fellowcompetitor an opportunity to observe the lifting and replacement. The ball must not be cleaned beyond the extent necessary for identification when lifted under Rule 12-2.

H Perissa Beach in Santorini, Greece also has a Water Park, albeit much more modest than ‘Water Fantasy’. Now you know why there is reference to ‘Perissa of Santorini’ on the promotional brochure! H It’s not a good idea to quote entrance prices which may be subject to variation. However the stated entrance price of tickets for Thais is less than for tourists. What this really means is Thai residents compared with foreign tourists. If you are a non-Thai resident you will need to provide evidence of your residence status (driving licence?) to qualify for the lower rates. We do know that Kids can enter at half price if they are under 1.3m tall. For more information: Phone 032 890400, Website:www.santoriniwaterfantasy.com

professional and business affairs, Hua Hin Women’s Club was established and has been working closely with the Hua Hin Municipality and other private and public organisations. Its major work includes allowing members to participate in creative pastime activities, giving advice to Thai women who marry foreigners about basic human rights and legal affairs, coordinating with public offices to solve problems on crime against women, sexual harassment and drugs and helping foreigners in Hua Hin. In addition, the Club has taken part in activities that aim to foster local intellect and traditional culture in Hua Hin and organised some events to promote tourism in the city.

Both Thais and foreigners are encouraged to join the gala dinner charity. For more information, please contact Hua Hin Women’s Club at tel. 081 916 6637.

Schools may reintroduce ‘repeat year’

he Education Ministry may reintroduce the policy of requiring students to repeat a class year to improve the basic standard of education in Thailand, Education Minister Chaturon Chaisaeng said.

“These processes impact the quality of students and of overall education. In many cases students who are essentially illiterate continue their studies at secondary school,” Mr Chaturon. said

He said that currently students are automatically moved up to higher class each year, even though they may have failed many subjects, in the expectation they would pass the exam later.

He favoured a revision of the exam re-sitting method, and the standard of evaluation. There should also be some form of special tutoring for failed students until they are good enough However, it was questionable how to move up to a higher class. Simply some students still get a pass because forcing failed students to take the same in some schools they do not re-sit the class again is not the solution, he said. exam at all. The ministry would discuss these ideas Some female students may be assigned and possible solutions further with the to work on flower arrangement and appropriate related parties. some male students help with cleaning the school - and they get a pass mark. In some cases, parents pressure schools to give their children a pass mark.

Mr Chaturon also said that the Office of Basic Education Commission and the Office of the Private Education Commission would need to revamp

the foreign language teaching system, and introduce foreign language camps lasting two to three weeks, to improve the learning process.

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

SANTORINI FANTASTIC WATER FANTASY “Santorini Park’s aquatic options will entice guests with innovative offerings from Polin Waterparks

and Pool Systems, a world leader in the aquatics industry”

What Can You Expect?

Some Other Facts:

H A further 8 acres at the site is earmarked for a three-star resort.

n stroke play, a player’s ball comes to rest on the apron (fringe) of the putting green. A large amount of sand has been splashed out of the bunker and lies on both the apron and the putting green.

Sand and loose soil are loose impediments on the putting green, but not elsewhere.

Both Thais and foreigners are encouraged to join the gala dinner charity. For more information, please contact Hua Hin Women’s Club at tel. 081 916 6637.

Schools may reintroduce ‘repeat year’

he Education Ministry may reintroduce the policy of requiring students to repeat a class year to improve the basic standard of education in Thailand, Education Minister Chaturon Chaisaeng said.

“These processes impact the quality of students and of overall education. In many cases students who are essentially illiterate continue their studies at secondary school,” Mr Chaturon. said

He said that currently students are automatically moved up to higher class each year, even though they may have failed many subjects, in the expectation they would pass the exam later.

Mr Chaturon also said that the Office of Basic Education Commission and the Office of the Private Education Commission would need to revamp

the foreign language teaching system, and introduce foreign language camps lasting two to three weeks, to improve the learning process.

Events & Promotion

Volume 10 issue 12 October 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.

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

illions of women and men have cellulite and look for a way to reduce its appearance. There are many different cellulite treatments on the market but I have found the best one. I went to try the Anti-Cellulite Body sculpture (60 min 2,500 thb )at Breeze Spa and I left impressed. Breeze Spa is located near the main pool in Amari Hua Hin. It’s a beautiful building with wooden floors. Khun Nick the Manager of Breeze Spa gave me all the information I needed for the treatment I was eager to try. Their pamphlet states that “Our anti-cellulite treatment is designed to reduce the appearance of cellulite by a combination of vigorous techniques of skin rubbing, kneading, twisting and rolling. The techniques are used to stimulate blood circulation and breakdown fat deposits. Special massage cream with plenty of plant extracts and aromatherapy oils aids in the removal of toxins and excess fluids by boosting circulation, metabolism and lymphatic systems. The treatment ends up with a body wrap to maximize the treatment’s benefits using your own body heat while our luxurious warming massage table keeps you comfortable during the treatment.”

Apple came and guided me to the room, as I heard that anti cellulite treatments are painful yet effective. The treatment room was big and very nicely designed. The temperature was ideal and the aroma of the room made you feel I had prepared myself to feel pain when Khun relaxed straight away. After I had a foot scrub

with lemon, I lay on the warm massage table and the feeling was amazing! I was feeling very relaxed. When you go to the Breeze Spa look for my therapist, her name is Apple and she is very knowledgeable and experienced. Although she is tiny when she started massaging me I realised how strong she was I was impressed. She scrubbed all the dead skin off my body, then she stared to massage me with firm strokes. Although it was pleasant, after some time I started feeling a soft warm sensation all over my body that I guess was the treatment stimulating the cellulite. When I turned on my side she wrapped me and left me for some minutes so all the ingredients will act to remove the cellulite. A shower after this treatment is necessary. The good thing with this treatment is that for the whole day afterwards your body feels tingly, so you know the treatment is working. My friend told me that she saw an improvement to my body after this therapy! I’ll go again for sure! Breeze Spa @Amari Hua Hin www.breeze-spa.com

enerally a person with Diabetes must always check blood sugar levels with a Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) test. The FBS has to be tested in the morning after the person has fasted for 8 hours. This test can show if the person has been taking care of himself recently. There is another test that can check how well the person caring himself over time, this is the HbA1C. HbA1C is the average blood sugar of the person in last few months, which shows information about the person’s diet. When Hemoglobin, part of blood cell, combines with blood sugar, the interaction will form two substances; Hemoglobin A1C or HbA1C. If blood sugar is high, HbA1C will be high as well. As a blood cell has an average life cycle of 120 days, the percentage of HbA1C will clearly show the average of blood sugar in the last 4-12 weeks. This can help inform Diabetes patients how healthy the food is that they are consuming. For example, some patients stop eating sweet food before blood testing for a week. FBS will decrease as a good sign. But when they test for HbA1C, it can show that they just stop eating

sweet food and taking care of themselves only for the short period. To Diabetes patients, the best way of caring yourself is to control your diet. Last but not least, to diagnose Diabetes, the doctor will refer only to FBS at 126 mg/ dl or higher. Now the HbA1C describes 6.5% or less as Diabetes disease. People who have Diabetes should stabalize HbA1C below 7%. Do not forget to take care of your health, it’s up to you! Article courtesy of Healthlab Medical Laboratory

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

An Ambassador of Thailand With a Message

epresenting Thailand in New Zealand, Tonga and Samoa is the Ambassador of Thailand to these countries Khun Noppadon Theppitak. When Hua Hin Today interviewed Khun Noppadon at the Veranda Resort & Spa Hua Hin / Cha-Am, he was undertaking one of the more pleasurable aspects of his duties; being a VIP escort for the Miss Universe New Zealand contestants during their visit to Thailand. He is taking time out from his more formal responsibilities to introduce these 20 contestants to Thailand and ensuring that their experience will be one that has a positive effect on the relationship between the people of both countries.

communicate and explain events during Thailand’s own period of political unrest when the reaction of the New Zealand government was to reconsider diplomatic relationships with Thailand. Khun Noppadon has now completed a four year period in New Zealand but he will soon have a one year extension before embarking on yet another diplomatic ‘adventure’. He commented on the need for international diplomats to be versatile and diverse in their areas of expertise rather than becoming specialists in particular regions or roles. He is also a former Fairbright Scholar and studied International relations in the USA. He is a native of Bangkok and a family man with his wife and two daughters. Khun Noppadon was approached in New Zealand by the Thailand Tourism Authority to consider how Thailand could be a part of the Miss Universe Thailand finalists’ experience. Perhaps unlike diplomats in other countries, he realised that this could become a great opportunity for contestants to become ‘unofficial ambassadors’ for Thailand after experiencing Thai culture and hospitality. There are currently about 8,000 Thai citizens in New Zealand including 3,000 students. About 130,000 ‘Kiwis’ visit Thailand each year. There has been considerable interest in the visit of the contestants to Thailand and he is very eager to draw on that publicity to spread the word that Thailand and New Zealand are both very desirable destinations for travellers from both countries.

Khun Noppadon is a very experienced diplomat on behalf of the Thailand Government. His last diplomatic post was in Cairo in Egypt. This was very clearly a challenging posting during a period of political instability for that country when the emergence of the ‘Arab Spring’ was imminent. He has also provided diplomatic services in Singapore and at the United Nations in New York. Reading between the lines, his current posting in Wellington New Zealand may be regarded as recognition of his ‘service under fire’ as the New Zealand requirement has been somewhat more benign. However one of the challenges, particularly in the early period of his posting, was to

One of the impacts on Khun Noppadon personally in his contact with the Miss Universe New Zealand contestants has been their certainty that they are first and foremost proud New Zealanders. The young ladies have diverse backgrounds including those with Indian, Asian and Pacific Island heritages but always reject the relevance of that background in representing their united country. His message is that these young ladies can be seen as a great example for Thai people of all political, ethnic and religious persuasions to understand that they are first and foremost Thais who must put aside any factional interests for the united future of their own country.

HEADROCK DOG RESCUE – ON THE JOB

Headrock Dogs Rescue has Saved 500 Puppies, Adopted Out 440 and Neutered 580 In The Last 5 Years

t’s 6.00 a.m. and the morning chorus has just finished at Headrock Dogs Rescue. We never need to worry about sleeping late explains Verity, who’s been running HRD with her husband Thep in Bang Saphan since 2008. It was never their intention to take over HRD from Dawn Poole who left for the UK in 2009. This is 65 year old Verity’s story about her never ending animal welfare work. At least we don’t have to worry about neighbours complaining as we’re at the end of a soi with no houses nearby just the sea and coconut groves. A perfect place for locals to dump their puppies and dogs! Back then we were given 2 weeks by the Hua Hin Tesaban to close and were told any dogs left would be sent to their Dog Pound. If you’ve seen the poor creatures there you can understand my determination not to let any of our dogs suffer that fate. After 2 weeks of high stress and pressure negotiating and begging other Thai rescue organisations for help we got about 50 dogs re-homed or re-located. That left 38 older puppies most of whom had already fought for their lives surviving distemper. How could we let them go to hell?

land. Thep was overseeing the building and on site every day so he took care of the tiny puppies and I managed the de-parasite and vaccination program. We had over 30 puppies dumped in under a year and we had them all adopted.

It was then I offered to take the Hua Hin dogs as all the puppies had been adopted so I could concentrate on these young dogs. The fact is that since 2008 my records show we’ve cared for 280 puppies on our land. Some were dumped on the beach, some on the road outside our house, some pushed through the gate, some thrown in the undergrowth; it has been endless. I have all their names and I remember them all. In fact that figure may be nearer 300 as some very tiny puppies didn’t survive the trauma of being put in a sack or box and thrown into the undergrowth or on the beach. It has been a 5 year exhausting challenge caring for these tiny creatures but the joy is in getting some 270 puppies adopted in that time.

lungs we’ve been caring for the Temple dogs and puppies with 2 or 3 visits a week. At that time no Temple dogs were neutered, there were vicious fights between the male dogs and puppies were being born and dying everywhere. It was a terrible sight.

Four years on I’m happy to say all the female Temple dogs are neutered, there haven’t been any puppies born in the Temple for the last 2 years and all the dogs are in very good condition. We run a monthly anti-parasite program and if any dog looks sick we take them to the vet immediately. The biggest problem is blood parasites and tick fever.

On the positive side our neutering program at the Centre and at the Temple together with the two German women’s street dog neutering program is starting to make a difference. This is the first year we’ve had fewer puppies dumped on us both at Erection of the puppy pen by Thep and a local the Centre and at the Temple. Sad to say we had 5 builder has been a great help as it not only protects tiny puppies dumped at the Temple today. the puppies from being killed by Temple dogs but it Our biggest problem is donations. We have been helps us to socialise them. There have been both very fortunate with donations until this year when Parvo and Distemper outbreaks. When there’s an Thai donations have almost dried up except for a outbreak I bring the puppies to the Centre where few thousand baht and 5 or 6 thousand baht for they can get 24/7 care otherwise their chances of sponsoring a few dogs. We only have a handful survival are minimal. It’s exhausting, but we care of donors to enable us to carry on with our work about the puppies and dogs. and every month is nail biting. We really need more We’ve had over 200 puppies dumped in the Temple puppy pen and my first year caring for some 30 puppies in a tiny hut with poop everywhere was horrendous.

This is only half the story of Headrock Dogs Rescue. On 5th February 2009 we were asked by Lung Por (Abbott) of Wat Tam Ma Rong a beautiful but very poor Temple in Bang Saphan for help. He is a great dog lover and I’d helped him occasionally care for his puppies. The Temple dogs were in terrible I offered to take them to Bang Saphan for a year conditions most suffering from appalling mange and get as many as I could adopted and then and crawling with parasites. Temple puppy adoptions have numbered over 170, send the remaining ones to Soi Dog in Phuket in Since that day when we rushed two tiny white some of which occurred without my knowledge. an agreement with John Daley. The problem was puppies to the vet with high fevers and infected I’d arrive at the Temple and a Monk would tell me he understandably wanted quite a lot of money that another 3 puppies have been adopted. Or, to set up a Headrock Dogs run not so good, another 6 have been with dedicated workers. Verity dumped often with their Mother. explains, ‘We couldn’t afford it so All of the dogs are fully vaccinated we worked hard to get these dogs and all females are neutered. We adopted and in 2 years 32 of them vaccinate the puppies as soon as had a new home. Four more they are strong and then neuter found homes later and today there them. Many of the dogs were are 3 remaining. puppies in my first year and sadly many of the original dogs have That should be end of the story. died. Road accidents and snake We’d achieved our goal and I was bites are a common killer. ready for a rest. I’d already done 5 years volunteering with Hua Hin Five years on and there is no end Dog Rescue and HRD and felt in sight for our work. If there’s ‘dog’ tired. But it didn’t work out anyone in Hua Hin who would like that way. We started to build our to come to Bang Saphan and help house by the sea with 2 rai of land me for a year to get all the Centre where we planned to build a small dogs adopted I would be over the resort, however the locals again moon! started to dump puppies on our

people to sponsor our dogs.

Our monthly outgoings range from 18,000 baht to 30,000 baht a month when we have 30 or 40 puppies to care for and neuter or we need to do some building work. We don’t employ any workers as we need all our donations to go to the dogs. This is the first year we’ve had a steady flow of volunteers and it’s helped so much. If people can’t afford to donate we have some beautiful healthy dogs which need loving homes. Adopting is another form of donating and we’re so happy to see our dogs go to loving homes. Local adoptions have fallen off badly this year and we suspect we’ve saturated the market! Every dog loving family has adopted one of our puppies. Bang Saphan is 50% Muslim area which greatly reduces our puppy and dog adoption chances so we must look further afield. If readers want to know more about Headrock Dogs Rescue in Bang Saphan look at their website www.headrockdogs.org.uk or visit their Facebook Headrockdogs Rescue

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

Volume 10 issue 12 October 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 mÂ˛ for long term rent

Hua Hin Highland, land sea view panorama. Fully furnished. 1 bedroom AC, 1 bathroom, livingroom, kitchen, Cable TV. And 25 mÂ˛ living terrace. 5km to city.

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

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

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

he Putahracsa Hotel has an unbeatable location in the centre of town. It is tranquil and beautifully designed in a modern cozy style. Oceanside is the signature restaurant located not even a stone’s throw from the beach. The restaurant has a beautifully decorated dining area and a chill out area where you can almost touch the water.

Putahracsa arranged for us to sample a variety of dishes but we started with the bread and the “butter”. Why mention it all? Putahracsa has always had experienced pastry chefs and you definitely notice the difference. I definitely noticed it as I ate my bread, my boss’s bread and I would eaten more if I have been given the chance. I am not really sure what was in the butter but I suspect it involved garlic and something else. Needless to say my boss and I were very happy What a great way to start the dinner. to be invited to try the food there. Oceanside restaurant specialises in Thai seafood and a The first course was fresh tuna “tataki” served beach BBQ and drinks to share with loved ones. with Thai pomelo salad and chili oil. The tataki This is the perfect location to have a romantic and pomelo was just perfect. Definitely a dinner with the waves lapping, sea breeze, cozy highlight, if you are going to order just one thing lights and fabulous food. Our dinner wasn’t this generous dish should be it. I cleverly moved romantic per se, as I was with my boss. If I had the plate closer to me so I wouldn’t have to given her smooch and cuddle I might have been share too much ;) The Tuna was served together in more trouble than I usually am, but if I did with a Crab and Avocado Salad which was find myself in the mood to eat well and If you fresh and crisp, it utterly melted in the mouth. I want a beautiful setting, I definitely recommend was tempted to move that closer to me as well Oceanside. though I showed some constraint. So what did we eat in this gorgeous place? The main dish was soft crab with black pepper The great marketing & Management people at served with mushrooms and as much rice as we

could eat. Soft Shell Crab is always good but the cook excelled making it fresh and not greasy as it sometimes can be. We also had a curry named Kashmir that was unlike anything I have tasted before, with tiger prawn, pineapple and banana it was sweet and thick. The curry served with the slightly more spicy soft shell made for a perfect combination.

f you were fortunate enough to be a guest or visitor to the Veranda Resort in late August you would have been surprised (and probably delighted!) to encounter a bevy of beauties from New Zealand. These ladies were the finalists for selection as Miss Universe New Zealand 2013. One of these finalists will be announced as the winner in Auckland in early October. Their journey to Thailand began with a flood of entries which was cut back to 80 contestants who all attended boot-camps in Auckland and Wellington, where the final 20 were chosen. An additional Ambassador on the journey here was the Thailand Ambassador to New Zealand, Khun Noppadon Theppitak.

On August 27th, the girls were in the spotlight at a televised Breakfast Show on National New Zealand TV when the secret location of the ‘Finalists’ Retreat” was announced. They arrived in Bangkok on August 28th and then to the main venue for their selection process in Cha-Am. They spent two nights at the Veranda Resort, which included a bikini photo shoot; after all wearing bikinis in New Zealand at this time of the year was not likely to be a pleasant experience! The journey then continued to Ayutthaya before returning to Bangkok and homewards. The final event of the trip was a formal reception at the Thailand Department of Foreign Affairs. Support from this Department and the Tourism Authority of Thailand was the main reason for Thailand being the destination of choice.

and were really eager to represent their country in the pageant. We met medical, psychology and law students. Twenty one year old Emily Coates has just completed her Real Estate licence and Kylie Tan is a Pre School teacher. Hayley Robinson, a 20 year old from Palmerston North said that after her selection as a finalist and learning of the trip to Thailand ‘I kind of went into shock. The other girls were amazingly beautiful; I was just so excited and happy.’ ‘As for coming to Thailand; WOW, we love it!’

Apart from spending time meeting the contestants we were also able to talk with the ‘main man’ of Miss Universe New Zealand, Executive Director Nigel Godfrey. Nigel is well known both behind and in front of the camera in New Zealand. He first became Hua Hin and Cha-Am Today was privileged to have involved in beauty pageants in London in 1986 when exclusive access to these charming young ladies at he worked for the Miss World Group and Thames the Veranda Resort thanks to the hospitality of the TV (England) on the international final of Miss World. Executive Director of Miss Universe New Zealand, Nearly 30 years on he is delighted to once again be Nigel Godfrey and the General Manager of the involved with such an exciting project. Veranda Resort & Spa Khun Panit Boonyaratvej. ‘Three decades is a long time and society’s approach There was clearly some excitement and anticipation at Veranda as a guard of honour was formed awaiting the bus arrival from Bangkok. As some of the contestants had never travelled out of their home country before and many were wide eyed and a little bewildered as they disembarked. They returned the greeting with big smiles and some embarrassment. After all they were only told about the trip to Thailand two days ago and were really out of their comfort zone!

The girls are certainly were certainly not just selected for their external beauty and proved to be both articulate and with personality to match, beautiful ambassadors from a beautiful country. They come from diverse professional and educational backgrounds

to women and beauty competitions has changed immeasurably in that time. I am incredibly excited to be involved in reinventing the fantastic brand that is Miss Universe New Zealand that has unfortunately been allowed to languish in our country for far too long. The road to discovering Miss Universe New Zealand 2013 will feature innovation, integrity, entertainment and viewer involvement,’ said Nigel. Our thanks to the Veranda Resort & Spa management and the pageant organisers for this opportunity to meet these superb ambassadors from New Zealand ‘up close and personal’ and to get some insights into why this competition has such a high international profile.

We were going to have dessert but I couldn’t have eaten a morsel more. Next time I am coming to raid the dessert menu of Putahracsa, be warned. Verdict: great food, beautiful place to chill and the place to bring a loved one’s. Oceanside Restaurant Tel: 032 531-470

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

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Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

he Prachuab Khirikhan Governor, former Members of Thai Parliament from Phetchaburi, Buddhist monks and local people attended a funeral bathing ceremony of Luang Pho Eed, the Abbot of Wat Khao Takiab Buddhist Monastery, who has recently died of cancer.

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

Korapat Pruekchaikulm, The Deputy Director of the Centre of Energy for Environment Dr. Sinjai Hawanont, the Phetchaburi Provincial Fisheries Department, public chief officers and civil servants of Phetchaburi’s governmental offices took part in a ceremony releasing sea crabs on 12th September 2013.

prize from the UN as a world Buddhist preacher. In 1990, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn gave Luang Pho Eed a gold wheel of Dhamma to honour his contributions and using Buddhism to develop the local community.

Apart from honourary awards, Luang Pho Eed held many positions in Buddhism administration and development in Thailand. He was an Abbot of Wat Khao Takiab, a diplomatic Buddhist monk of Thailand, Chair of the Dhamma exam committee and recently given the title “Phra Luang Pho Eed suffered from prostate cancer for Sassana Sophon Siripha Watjana Rapho” by the two years. He was admitted for medical treatment Sri Lankan Buddhist head monk. at Hua Hin Hospital before being transferred to Born on 6th April 1936 in Bangkok, Luang Pho Chulalongkorn Hospital in Bangkok. His body will be put in a glass coffin after the 100 night funeral so that people and his disciples can pay respect to him. Anyone who would like to sponsor the funeral is welcome to contact the administration office at Wat Khao Takiab. The funeral bathing ceremony held on 12th September 2013 at 4 p.m. At Wat Khao Takiab Buddhist Monastery was presided over by Phra Thep Sutthaporn, a venerable and highly revered monk from Wat Indarawihan in Bangkok.

Ordained on 18th November 1978 at Wat Pho in Bangkok, Luang Pho Eed moved to Wat Khao Takiab and started a development project for the temple. The monk was a well know speaker admired by both Thais and foreigners because he could preached in Thai and English. In 1989, the United Nations invited him to deliver an English speech in New York. He was awarded the U-Than

oi 112 in Hua Hin is fast progressing into a very desirable location with projects sprouting from one end to the other at a rapid rate. If the name is not familiar, you may just know it as the way to the floating markets or to the Banyan Golf Course. It commences from Petchakasem Road just after the overpass heading South (towards Pranburi) and runs away from the coast (west). The start of the Soi is adjacent to the Vana Nava water park currently being constructed. Apart from the attractions already mentioned the huge MahaSamutr Development project which will soon be a feature of this location.

Eed’s former name before ordainment was Mr. Weerasak Phetsing. He graduated with a Master’s Degree in Economics from London University after completing his education at Amnuay Silpa School in Thailand. With his excellent English skills, Mr. Weerasak’s prodessional career include positions at Kasetsart University and Air France in Asia and the Pacific. He decided to become a Buddhist monk on 18th November 1978. He was a monk for a period of 33 years before passing away at the age of 77. Luang Pho Eed has one brother, Mr. Niran Phetsing, who is a former Governor of Phetchaburi.

This activity was carried out as a project to promote raising and increasing sea crabs in Thailand by the Sirindhorn International Environmental Park in Phetchaburi. The aim is increase the numbers of sea crabs in the Gulf of Thailand.

They are very aware of how desirable this location is and Khun Warinya added that a Thai professional golfer has already made one enquiry. This golfer was well aware of the proximity of the Banyan Golf Course as well as the other nearby courses at Black Mountain and Majestic Creek. The Concept

Khun Warinya is an architect by background although she doesn’t want to take credit for the final design. However together with her sister who was an exchange student in Italy, it was her idea to create an Italian styled housing project and ensure that an element of romance was included. There will be two types of villas Very soon the Soi will be widening to four lanes so available and to add to the romantic theme they that access to and from the Southern end of Hua are named after the world’s most famous lovers; Hin becomes much easier and less congested. Romeo and Juliet! This is the location for Villa Amore, about 5 As the land area is triangular and restricted to kilometres on the left from Petchakasem Road. 5.5 Rai (8,800 square metres). The clever design Hua Hin Today was invited to learn more about has a vehicle access lane to the perimeter with this new development ‘on site’ and to meet with parking for either two or three cars to the rear of the Managing Director of Warin Asset Co. Ltd., each villa. This means that the central landscaped Wariya Sriwattanatrakul. This is a Hua Hin based garden area is free from vehicle intrusions and will family Company which has just been waiting for be very quiet. the right time to go ahead with the development. The other important aspect of the design is wide

R Individual swimming pools for each Villa R Full 24 hour security R Landscaped gardens R Car parking for 3 or 2 cars. The Schedule

The first display villa is under construction and will be open for viewing by the end of the year. open spaces with full height Completion of the project is then anticipated by windows and mezzanine the end of 2014. spaces to add to the feeling Contact: Daranee Praserjit is the Marketing of spaciousness. Relations Manager who is now available at the onsite office and sales office from 10 am Features R 28 three storey Villas: to 6 pm every day. Khun Indy as she is better Romeo Villas have 8 metre known joined the Company after completing frontages, 300 square her marketing studies in Bangkok. She was just waiting for an opportunity to escape the frantic metre usage areas. Juliet Villas have 6 metre pace of Bangkok and eager to move to Hua Hin. frontages and 250 square You’ll find Indy to be a very eager to please and a competent English language communicator. metre usage areas. Each Villa has balconies on Phone: 0812 558 555, 0812 559 555 both the second and third Email: daranee@waerinasset.com levels Website: www.villaamorehuahin.com

he Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects to see a total of 26.1 million visitors, most of them from China and Russia, visiting Thailand by the end of the year. That would be a growth of roughly 20% in total arrivals compared to 2012. The expected revenue from tourism could reach THB 1.17 trillion, the equivalent of US$36.7 billion. It would be 17 % higher than earlier forecasts.

ebster University Hua Hin has reintroduced the “Quick Start” for the Fall 2 intake. Applications are now open.

Visit the website for information about either the Undergraduate Course Schedule or the complete Graduate Course Schedule for Fall 2, 2013. New Student Orientation and start of Fall 2 will take place on October 21, 2013. Webster University Thailand (www.webster. ac.th) is an American accredited university with an undergraduate campus located near Hua Hin and a graduate academic centre in Bangkok. This is an international university that offers education with a global outlook, part of a network of seven USaccredited campuses under the leadership of Webster University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

TAT, Airports of Thailand Sign Pact to Boost Aviation Links to Thailand

wo of Thailand’s top state enterprises involved in promoting travel and tourism have joined forces to boost the number of air travellers to the kingdom and meet the national objective of better spreading the benefits of tourism nationwide.

Thailand has provided a prominent, high-profile presence at Russia’s largest travel fair, the Moscow Autumn Travel Industry Week (MATIW) Leisure 2013 which was held on 17th September until 20th September 2013.

On August 23, Mr Suraphon Svetasreni, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Mr. Pongsak Semson, Vice Chairman and Acting Managing Director, Airports of Thailand PLC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will see the two organisations pool recognises the importance of promoting tourism their resources to achieve a broad level of to Thailand and the need to project a positive tourism promotion goals. image of the country.

Thailand’s 19th year of participation in the show was be marked by a presence of about 39 Thai representatives from hotels and resorts, tour operators and travel agents, spa, and travel related operators from Pattaya, Phuket, Hua Hin, Samui, Krabi, and Bangkok.

Also attending the signing ceremony was Mr. Sansern Ngaorungsi, TAT Deputy Governor for Asia and South Pacific, and Mr. Siroj Duangrat, Deputy Managing Director (Business Development), AOT.

For the vast majority of our tourists, Thailand’s international airports are the first point of landing, and it is important to make the arrival process pleasant and efficient. We will be working together to forge a common strategy to penetrate target markets and increase flight To be effective for three years from 1 September, services to the international airports.” 2013, to 31 August, 2016, the MoU is the first of its kind ever signed between the two state- Mr. Suraphon said the agreement will also owned enterprises. boost the entire aviation sector and attract more airlines from both the short-haul and long-haul AOT is a largely government-owned but publiclymarkets, including scheduled and charter flights. listed company which owns and operates the six It will also reduce congestion at Suvarnabhumi key international gateway airports of Thailand: Airport by helping promote more flights to the Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Hat Yai, provincial airports, thus better dispersing visitor Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. arrivals around the country. More than 80% of Thailand’s total visitor arrivals The joint activities will also help enhance the come by air via these international gateways. position of Thailand as an “aviation hub” of Asia. The TAT-AOT MoU will see the two state In recent years, AOT has joined with TAT by enterprises undertaking a broad range of attending major international travel fairs; such marketing, promotional, research and human as, ITB in Berlin, World Travel Market (WTM) resource development activities to increase the in London, as well as a number of tourism number of both arriving and transit passengers promotion roadshows in Asia. going through these airports. In his comments, Mr. Pongsak said AOT has In a statement, Mr. Suraphon said that the MoU invested heavily over the years in upgrading will be of significant benefits to the many airlines Thailand’s international airports to better service flying to Thailand, especially in the build-up to passengers and airlines. He said that in terms the upcoming integrated markets of the ASEAN of both passengers and cargo, airports are the Economic Community when air connectivity most important conduits for national economic will be critical to opening up access to both the development and provide the connectivity that gateway and secondary cities of ASEAN. is becoming increasingly critical in a global The two state enterprises will also work on economy. promoting domestic travel, especially during Mr. Pongsak added, “AOT and TAT are both the off-season months. They will also organise linked by shared interests in facilitating the air joint seminars, carry out research, exchange transport sector and tourism promotion. Aviation information and feedback, publicise travel and linkages will be critical for the success of the tourism news, and work together with their ASEAN Economic Community in 2015 and there respective partners. is no doubt that we can be more effective by Mr. Suraphon said, “TAT is very pleased to join pooling our resources and expertise.” forces with the management of AOT which

The Importance of Learning Chinese

ith over 80 million Chinese tourists spending more than $100 billion on international travel in 2012 you can’t ignore the numbers. If you work in the hospitality industry in a city like Hua Hin, tourism is the main source of income. The numbers have been steadily climbing since 2000 when only 10 million Chinese nationals travelled abroad. This remarkable growth is due to the relaxed restrictions on foreign travel by the Chinese government and the rise of middle class Chinese family with disposable income. Many tourism authorities are implementing programmes to both attract and facilitate the Chinese traveller, but the pace of growth appears to be outstripping the pace of change required to meet demand in the hospitality industry.

One local business recognised 6 months ago there is a need for Chinese language courses in Hua Hin. Since then Insight English language Schools in Hua Hin & Cha-am have been developing course outlines and materials for beginners wishing to learn General Chinese and Chinese language tailored for the hotel industry. Just speaking a few words of Chinese could be the difference you need to ensure your business is recommended to other likeminded tourists.

Swedish /Thai SNUS

Are you serious such a thing exists?

e might start by stating that we are in no way condoning or promoting the use of Tobacco products but when you find that a truly Scandinavian tobacco product, SNUS, is being made in Thailand with success it is worth writing about.

For those of you that are not familiar with SNUS it is a moist powder tobacco product. It is consumed by placing it under the upper lip for extended periods of time. In Scandinavia many variations of SNUS can be found. Loose SNUS that must be packed by the user before use (called “Prilla” in slang) or sachet type SNUS which is pre-packed. The demand for loose SNUS has been largely replaced by portioned varieties. Many users of SNUS today prefer the discrete nature of the latter. The nicotine content of SNUS varies between brands, with the most common strength being 8 mg of nicotine per gram of tobacco. The producers of SNUS also cater to many different “tastes”. It is said that the origins of SNUS was discovered because of a Christopher Columbus voyage across the Atlantic. A monk who travelled with Columbus to America saw Indian priests draw up a powder into their noses. This powder included tobacco. In the 19th century, Swedish producers began to manufacture moist snuff (SNUS) placed under the upper lip which did not require spitting. It became known as SNUS. The brand “Ettan” (Swedish meaning “number one”), was first registered in 1822 and is the oldest brand of SNUS still sold. In 1919, 7,000 tonnes of snuff was sold in Sweden, an impressive peak which amounted to 1.2 kg per Swede! With World War II, smoking increased sharply in Sweden and the number of SNUS users decreased. At the end of the 1960’s reports that smoking was harmful to health, lead to SNUS being returned as the most popular tobacco product. In 1998 sales of SNUS reached an annual consumption of 5,350 tonnes. Today one million Swedes use SNUS and in 2000 Swedes used 6,200 tonnes of SNUS of which 45% was the portioned variety. When Sweden and Norway joined the European Community, exemptions for the legal production and use in these countries were granted after much campaigning from SNUS lovers.

Snus Co., Ltd as the production company. This Swede, Göran Andersson lived with his Thai wife Nantakan in Pak Chong, between the cities of Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima. He passed away two years ago but his wife continues the business. Swedish SNUS is typically made from ground tobacco mixed with water, salt, and an alkalizing agent. Today this agent is sodium carbonate. Viking Snus sells SNUS with natural ingredients and their tobacco is grown without pesticide. The tobacco is the highest quality of a five grade scale applied in Thailand. Their SNUS only contains; tobacco, sea salt, spring water and spices. No chemicals are added and the SNUS can be stored for four months in a refrigerator.

After a year of struggling to explain SNUS to local authorities, Viking Snus received permission in 2007 to sell Svenskt Snus throughout Thailand. Selling SNUS in Thailand is prohibited unless the product contains 100% Thai ingredients. The company sells many varieties including Svenskt Snus Pouch, General and even a Thai Ettan. Khun Nantakan continues to provide desperate SNUS lovers with Thai SNUS by mail in Thailand and sells to Swedish businesses.

Studying another language can be a rewarding challenge. By using proven learning methods the process can be easier and more fun than initial expectations. Learning Mandarin with a native speaker in a classroom or workshop environment, where live instruction creates interaction between the students develops confidence in using the language. Insight English Language Schools in Hua Hin & Cha-am has been quick to introduce Chinese to complement In 2008 an expat Swede, missed his SNUS in For more information on Thai Snus go to: its programmes of English and Thai courses due Thailand and started Viking Snus with Svenskt http://www.vikingsnus.nu/english.html to demand. Learning Chinese will prepare you to do business with the ever growing number of Chinese visitors. The Chinese tourist, now out numbers any other nationality visiting Thailand. Learning Chinese will become essential if you want your business to thrive from millions of Chinese tourist spending billions of dollars every year. Call Insight English now to find out how they could help your business succeed in this highly competitive world, 0848818396.

Mandarin is the most widely spoken language in the world with more than 800 million speakers. Mandarin may appear to be a difficult language to learn but many elements of the language are fact simple. For example verbs and nouns have only one form. Many people who study Mandarin Speaking a few words of Chinese could be the also find the beauty of character-writing, exciting difference between success and failure in the and a break from tradition. future.

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

Confirmed Halloween Parties in Hua Hin: Hilton Hotel

Dates: 31st October – 2nd November 2013 Halloween weekend Entrance fee: n/a Details: Come and enjoy angel and devil coyote dancers, with ghoulish DJ and live band. For more information: 032-538-999

Bell’s@ Black Lotus

Date: On November 2nd 2013 Entrance fee: Adults at THB 1,499 per person, kids from 4 – 12 years at THB 299 per person Details: Halloween Costume Party from 4 – 11 pm, best costume contest and DJ, Halloween Buffet start from 6-9 pm with free flow soft drinks, 4 kinds of beer, red & white wine only Kids Corner with lots of gamesFor more information: 081 94 31 632

Poonsuk Road

Most of the bars have Halloween themed parties around Poonsuk Road. So get your horns on and jump from bar to bar.

El Murphy’s

Cover Story

Date: 31st October Entrance fee: n/a Details: These guys get all into Halloween with deco, prizes fancy dress, Halloween themed drinks and a Halloween rock band. For more information: 032 511 525

Gozen Restaurant

nt serves Chinese The Gozen Restaura with a choice of style noodles/rice siew pork and ar ch roasted duck, nton. roasted pork with wo seriously good, This restaurant is and authentic ce with great fast servi affordable rates. Chinese food at during lunch for The place is packed suspect they we d an obvious reasons roasted items are close when all the sold. k them for their Do remember to as ste to go with pa ili ch special sweet ner is Mandarin your meal. The ow do tell him “Nin so Chinese speaking you) when you see hao ma!” (How are him. MUST try! tchkasem Road Address: 83/8-9 Pe Tel: 032 512 252

Le Bar

Date: 27th October Entrance fee: n/a Details: A Hawaian style Halloween party

Where to buy Halloween decorations, candies and stuff

We have heard that Halloween centric deco, candy and some masks can be bought at Villa Market, Market Village and Grand Market during Halloween.

g. called Phanchan Phanchaopneng ber in Hua Hin s. to rio Oc cu T l 1S ca lo e th d ed on antiques an

s filled with A new shop ha and selling old café and bistro a ly er rm fo s ssion of collecting wa pa eir th to e Phanchang tim w reverting full The owners are no ming) and local antiques. to fra (& es visit . They used pictures, fram this is the place to on sale perhaps e m ho ur yo in n s old Hua Hi of the item If you want part of latte but maybe if you buy some n ee gr st ! be pe make the al. Let’s ho e latte in on the de 5 they will throw th 5797, 081 221599 a Hin. Tel: 032 51 Hu , ad Ro ri am Address: 6 Naresd

D SHOP place to have breakfast A E R B G IN N R O t M Soi g Bread is a grea d conveniently on décor, The Mornin

locate white European With a fresh & hip ead shop. The Morning Bread is us and authentic br io l lic ca lo de t e ak m ey Th and a grea . n) posite G Hua Hi 94 (diagonally op t. Rd. a “mean” breakfas e rv Hin , Phetkasem breads and se rk G House Hua pa r ca e th e sit i 94, oppo Address: 8/32 So Tel: 089-1676535

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

HOW TO GET MARRIED IN THAILAND

If You Want to Get Married in Thailand, Here’s What You’ll Need To Do!

lot of Westerners come to Thailand, fall in love and marry a Thai person. Others come with a western boyfriend or girlfriend and get married while they’re here. Getting married in Thailand is actually not that difficult and it’s a lot cheaper than in the US or Europe. Whether you’re a foreigner living in Thailand and marrying a Thai woman or man, or whether you’re a western couple coming to Thailand to get married, the same rules pretty much apply. If you plan on getting married in Thailand, here is how to do it and what you’ll need to bring with you to make sure it happens.

ceremony, fees for the monks, flowers, Amphur fees and everything else included in a wedding. They’re actually a great deal as many of them are in nice hotels and the total cost is far less than any western wedding I’ve ever been to.

Legalisation and Naturalisation Division, Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Address: 123 ChaengWattana Rd, Laksi District, Bangkok 10210 Tel: 02 575 1056 59 If you’re living in Thailand, you can get a similar Open: 08:30-14:30 Monday to Friday package, minus the airfare, through many OUR THANKS TO PRANBURI LAW wedding planners. Again, it includes most of FOR THEIR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE the things involved with a wedding and, if you’re AND CONSULATION not Thai and don’t speak the language, this may be for you. For only a couple of thousand US dollars, you get everything and you’ll end up getting married in a much more romantic Documents You Need: place than in a typical American or European H Your passport with two copies of the wedding. photograph page and also two copies of the The Dowry page showing your visa into Thailand. Your It is an accepted part of Thai culture that the passport must be valid for at least six months. groom pays a dowry (sin sod) to the bride’s H Original death or divorce certificate translated family. This has long been part of marriage into Thai if either party has been married before. although it is becoming less prevalent with the H An Affirmation of Freedom to Marry, which younger generation. you can get at your home embassy and a certified translation of this document in Thai. Sin sod is property given on the part of the You’ll then have to take this document to the man to the parent or guardian of the woman Legalization and Naturalization Division of the in return for the woman agreeing to marry. If Department of Consular Affairs (see address and the marriage does not take place the man may contact number below) to get it authenticated. claim the return of the Sinsod. Before the man It normally takes two working days and you’ll shall give or transfer the property (money, gold, Traditional style weddings in Thailand vary from have to return there to pick it up. However with ring, house, land, car etc.) which is a betrothal region to region and many of the early traditions promise (Khongman) to the woman and have faded. The forms of the wedding an extra fee it may be available the same day. evidence that the marriage shall take place. ceremony are now able to be ‘shaped’ as Thai Citizens Will Need: The amount of the dowry should be arranged the families and couples wish. However here H An Identification Card. with the woman’s parents before the wedding, are some of the common practices for that H A House Registration Document (a blue but can be anything from 10,000 baht to several important wedding celebration that Thai people book). million. There are also situations when after the may be expecting. This part of marriage is not Once you have all these documents in order, wedding, the money is returned (ttraditionally about the legal status of the marriage but about you should go to an Amphur (District Office) and this money is not returned but now it’s depend symbolism, Buddhist practices and fun. apply for a Thai marriage license. Be prepared on the bride’s family who may return 50% or at H Although an engagement is expected, this with multiple copies of everything! all). In this case the payment may be seen as may be arranged on the day of the wedding If either party is under the age of twenty, symbolic to prove you can support your future to be practical and to reduce expenses. The written permission from both parents (with Thai wife but also an indication of her ‘value’ as a engagement ceremony commences with a translation) may be required. wife and also pay to the bride’s family in return parade (Khan Maak) accompanied by music for their supported of the bride since was a and dancing. This was traditionally from the Getting Married baby. Groom’s family home to the Bride’s family Most people in Thailand will have a wedding home although in modern times this may not be The payment may be in cash or take the form ceremony (usually Buddhist) to celebrate the practical and just start nearby the Bride’s home. of property, gold or any other assets, and wedding. Be warned though, if you get married Upon arrival, traditionally there are ceremonial traditionally serves to prove that the groom is in a ceremony but then don’t register at the gates to pass with young ladies as ‘guards’ in a position to take care of his new family and Amphur office, the marriage is not legal. It requiring a form of payment before entry. There must be registered at an Amphur office and a is generous in nature (an important trait in Thai may be two gates; the golden gate (Pratoo culture). Negotiating the ‘price’ may be difficult marriage certificate issued. If you get married Thong) and the silver gate (Pratoo Ngeurn). with one of the many package deals available in and some families may try to milk the foreigner After passing through the gates the dowry is Thailand the company organising the package for as much money as they can get. It’s up to offered along with other presents to the Bride’s wedding will usually arrange to have an official you to find a way that is ‘reasonable’ for you but parents. Traditionally a pair of banana trees from the Amphur office at the wedding so it also taking into account the Thai family ‘saving represents fertility; a pair of canes represents can be registered and made legal as soon as face’ as the amount will be discussed with the sweetness and trays of meat, fruit and desserts the religious ceremony is finished. If not you extended family members. However most pays respect to ancestors. must go to the local Amphur office to have the families will be thankful for a modest amount and know their daughter marrying a foreigner Once the dowry and presents are accepted the marriage registered. is a bonus! traditional time for the couple to ‘meet’ is at hand Getting the Marriage Registered and then engagement rings are exchanged. Letting Your Home Country Know at the Amphur Office The parents then tie a holy thread (Sai Sin) on You’re Married the wrists of the couple to bless them and wish There is no wedding ceremony at the Amphur office. All you do is take all your paperwork and In Bangkok, go to the embassy or consulate of them luck. These threads should be worn for at pay the necessary fee. The Amphur office will your home country and give them the original least three days. issue your marriage certificate and that’s it, marriage certificate. The embassy will then H The dress code for weddings would expect you’re married. This is why most Thai couples send this to whichever registration department a Thai bride to wear a form of traditional dress have a separate ceremony, as you hardly is near your home. Make sure though that you which may vary according to her home region. feel married if you’ve just filled in a couple of have a photocopy of the marriage certificate in The groom, including Europeans, would also pieces of paper and been given your marriage your records before you hand over your original normally wear a form of modified Thai dress marriage certificate. Some of them have been certificate. known to disappear and you want proof that although this is not always required. Probably the best advice would be talk this over with the Getting Married With a Wedding you’re married. bride and don’t be lazy or disrespectful to her Package Getting married in Thailand is easy. The cost family. The usual comment about it being her Many foreigners come to Thailand on a wedding of an average Thai wedding is not high and a day applies. Above all black should not be worn package holiday. What that means is you pay far cry from the costs in the western countries. (including when by guests) as it is reserved for a set amount and it will include airfare, hotel, Getting married in Thailand is a unique funerals or other solemn occasions. food, traditional Thai wedding dress, traditional experience and you’ll end up with some pretty H The Thai wedding ceremony is non-religious suit for the groom, all costs of the wedding cool photos.

TRADITIONAL THAI WEDDING CUSTOMS

or those readers based in Cha-Am, the chances are that at some time or another you will have seen the subject of this month Everyday People. He is somewhat conspicuous both because of his personal appearance but also because of the appearance of his motorbike and ‘sidecar’. His name is Mr. Udom Thubthong though better name by his nick name of ‘Dom’. You may have wondered where you have seen his distinctive hairstyle, moustache before then realise that he is a look alike for Pi Ad, the lead singer of the very famous Thai Rock band Carabao. He was featured on many posters around town some months ago when they were plying a concert in town,

work for others as a furniture painter but clearly wasn’t suited to working as an employee. He describes a previous life as a ‘very silly life; drunk with no money’.

Khun Dom is 68 years old and a native of Amphur Krathumban, Samut Sakhon Province. He came to live in Cha-Am when he was 25 year old. He describes himself as single though he says he has fathered three children. He used to

even though monks are involved. No vows are made but still strongly symbolic to ensure a good start for the couple. H To ensure happiness and prosperity, the date and time of the wedding must be chosen carefully and consultation with a monk may be involved. H Only parents and close relatives and friends attend the early monk’s blessing in the morning with other guests attending later as they are invited. H The attendance of monks is very important and will be early (5.00 – 7.00 AM). Spiritual credit for the couple requires the donation of food and other gifts. Additionally a practice of liberating caged birds or fish may also occur. The monks will pray while a lit candle is placed above a bowl of holy water. This water will later be used to bless the couple and guests. After praying a meal will be offered to eat before resuming prayers and the senior monk will bless the couple and may use a white powder to mark both the groom and bride’s forehead (the ‘Jerm’). The monk’s meal is finished before others in attendance eat. The monk’s then return to their temple before the ceremony proceeds. H The Water Blessing Ceremony (Rod Nam Sang) is the next stage with the newlyweds sitting next to each other with the groom on the right and facing either North or East. The parents or another senior couple place the ‘circles of luck’ (Saii Monkol) made from white thread (previously blessed by monks) on the heads of the couple and flower garlands around their necks. This symbolically bonds the destiny of the pair as a couple but also maintains their individual spirit. A shell is then used to pour flower garnished holy water from their wrists to finger tips while blessing them. Guests who are older than the couple then proceed in the same manner. H The Bridal Bed Ceremony is generally only attended by family members. A bed is made and flowers and rice grains are spread over. Other meaningful items may also be placed on the bed such as a cock (you know ……… a male chicken!) for diligence; a cat for family orientation; a cane for long life; a gourd for equanimity and grain seeds for vitality. The senior couple will lie down and feign sleep for a short while then the newlyweds do the same awakening to tell their spouse of dreams of a bright future, prosperity and children. H The following wedding reception itself may not be dissimilar to Western weddings with speeches, toasts and cake cutting. Even the departure of the couple’s car suitably sabotaged is becoming ‘in vogue’! Guest may appear without invitation! Guests are expected to offer some money (always in a discrete envelope) and sign a blessings book. Money rather than other wedding gifts is usually preferred. After the formalities it’s on with the party, including music, dancing and all the rest. The ‘drunk uncle’ is just as likely in Thailand as in other countries, but what would a wedding be without one? OUR ADVICE? Roll with the flow and you will be steered in the right direction at each stage. You won’t be expected to know exactly what to do, if you get it wrong there is likely just to be laughter not criticism.

Above all if after a long day you start to get ‘tired and grumpy’ keep smiling, THAT’S IMPORTANT!

between 5 to 9 AM, usually around the southern end of the beach. However this is a flexible approach to business, so he may decide to head for the Wednesday market or for that matter just about anywhere if customers and friends can be Then one day he decided his life must change found. as he didn’t want to die. He created the design and ‘features’ of his bike with Carabao in mind. Khun Dom says that he has been ‘dry’ for over ten For him that is an image of a free & easy and years. He is proud of changing from being very independent lifestyle. His bike is decorated with poor (mainly because of the booze) to being able the buffalo horns (as well as other decorations of to live a comfortable and easy life. He in content all kinds) that are a recognised logo of the band. in Cha-Am in part because of the good weather This outfit has attracted the attention of the media and the people he meets here. Being a minor from across the country! celebrity has it’s reward as business is good and his business ‘premises’ is very photogenic it’s only His business is selling non-alcohol drinks (hot and polite to become a customer if you want to join his cold) of many varieties starting in the morning ‘fan club’.

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

MEDITATION TRAINING IN ENGLISH

HUA HIN AIRPORT

More Entrepreneurs Required?

here is often conjecture about the Hua Hin Airport, particularly about the future of regular scheduled flights, either domestic or international. After all this is a significant facility with a capacity to cater for international arrivals and a runway large enough to land a Boeing 737. However to date regular commuter travel has been limited, only recently bolstered by the commencement of the regular (three days a week) Hua Hin to Kuala Lumpur flights provided by Berjaya Air.

Currently there are no other regular domestic commuter services available (including to Bangkok) and no signs of plans for these services. The last scheduled Bangkok – Hua Hin domestic flights were discontinued in 1990, apparently because of the length of the runway. However a development plan carried out from 1997 to 2000 saw the extension of the runway to resolve this issue.

n September 15th 2013, at the Willpower Institute 18 Kao Tao Temple, Hua Hin, over 40 foreigners attended a 1st training meditation course in English by Master Vuttikorn Sathan-art.

Chin-na sa meditation was developed by Long Por Viriyang Sirindharo from his own experience in teaching meditation both in Thailand and abroad for 65 years. As a recognised monk teaching Buddhism in Canada and USA, he has established 6 Thai temples in these countries which are now centres for Buddhists. This was the first training meditation course in English in Thailand for foreigners having an interest in meditation. Without language problems, they can learn the true Buddhist way and how to implement it in their daily life. This practice can provide peace to our human minds and continuous happiness in our lives. This meditation teaching, based on the Buddhist

Support for the Police Flying Division, parachuting activities of the Border Patrol Police, the Agricultural Aviation Division, Electricity Generating Authority, the Civil Aeronautical Society and the Thai Flying Club.

Anybody from any country and any religion is most welcome to these open training meditation sessions. For more information; Willpower Institute located at Kao Tao temple ,Hua Hin Soi 101 or Tel 081-4453305

Quick Facts: H The runway has a length of 2,100 metres and a width of 35 metres. It has high runway light intensity. H There are three taxiways with a combined length of 320 metres. H A concrete apron beside the terminal covers an area of over 12,000 square metres. H The passenger terminal has an area of 7,200 square metres with air conditioned arrival and departure lounges to manage up to 300 passengers at any time. H The control tower is 7 stories for efficiency in managing air traffic control.

FEET IN THAI CULTURE

The head is considered to be spiritually above everything else. It is considered very rude to touch someone on the head, where it is believed the soul resides. If you go to a Thai barber of hair dresser, the person touching your head will probably apologise in advance...

Conversely, the feet are considered dirty, profane. You absolutely must not point your feet at images of the Buddha, step over such images, use your feet to point at, or nudge people. If you accidentally touch someone with your feet, don’t panic, just apologise with sincerity.

Some people may even be offended if you use your feet to touch items associated with the head, such as pillows or hats. Offense may also be caused if you step on coins of banknotes, which have images of the King, a highly revered figure in Thailand.

Stepping over people as the sit and eat (Thais often sit on the floor to dine) is very rude indeed. Without fail, you must remove your footwear Don’t even step over their food. Walk around or before entering someone’s home. Thais like to keep their homes clean and unlike wait for them to move. westerners, can’t stand the idea of dirty Never sit with your feet resting up on something shoes being worn indoors. In many places of else, therefore showing the bottom of your feet work and government offices, you will also be to others. This will be exacerbated if you have required to removes your shoes. raised your feet above the heads of others. When visiting temples, do not sit with your feet While accidentally using or placing your feet out in front of you and pointing at Buddhist inappropriately will in most cases be forgiven, statues etc, rather, sit with your legs and feet the potential to cause great offense, and long term misunderstanding, is very real. pointing behind you.

Scientifically Proven: Nuts Are Not Fattening

aily nuts consumption reduces by 28% the risk of cardiovascular disease and associated mortality.

There are charter flights available with a variety of Companies offering tailored flights though these are likely to be beyond the resources of most potential passengers. Notable recent VIP passengers arriving at the airport by charter recently were the King and Queen of Malaysia on an official State visit. We are told this included an escort by the Royal Thai Air Force For more information about the airport and how its facilities can be accessed we suggest that over Thai air space. you visit the information desk at the airport. The Statistics for the period January to end July 2013 airport public relations Manager is Khun Bow, describe a total of 5,053 scheduled international a very helpful and informative staff Member. passenger arrivals and 109 domestic arrivals. Together with Khun Rujapa Homjan, the Acting Not a busy airport for a Region of this size and General Manager these ladies welcomed the level of tourism importance. The proximity of visit of Hua Hin & Cha-Am Today reporters many of the Regions resorts and hotels to the checking out what is on offer at the airport. airport is potentially a bonus for those flying in Footnote: One request made by our hosts to Hua Hin. So what are the issues? was for copies of our publication for incoming v Proximity to Bangkok means that road passengers so they can be informed about transport, despite traffic issues, remains as the happenings around town. Sounds like a good preferred travel mode. idea! v Future plans for a high speed rail link may dissuade service providers from planning future domestic flight services. v The promotion (including low cost accommodation packages) of direct flights from Australian airports to Phuket or Chiang Mai but not to Hua Hin. One shining light on the horizon is the provision of direct flights between Hua Hin and Kuala Lumpur every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. The current emphasis for this service is on Malaysian golfers travelling to experience the Region’s range of fine golf courses.

For around 6,000 THB return this flight could also be a real ‘Visa Run’ option. This is a two hour forty minute flight which would require a minimum of two nights stay in Malaysia. Perhaps an opportunity for a package deal; airfares, transfers and accommodation for a very convenient and pleasant getaway to cater for those needing a short exit and re-entry from Thailand?

Some Other Potential Services: v There are suggestions that with an influx of Chinese tourists heading for Hua Hin a direct flight from China may be in the pipeline but this cannot be confirmed. v The impact of ASEAN commuters from the Member nations could impact on the need for flight services. v There is a suggestion that scenic flights Recent scientific studies show along the coastline and hinterland could be the benefits of regular intake of offered. However there is no promotion of this nuts, not only associated with potentially appealing option for visitors to date. cardiovascular health but also demonstrates that eating nuts is not associated v A link with the 2014 (and beyond) Hua Hin with renal function, diabetes, and Cha-Am Golf Festival. cognitive function, atherosclerosis, metabolic with a higher risk of weight gain, and even syndrome, inflammatory biomarkers, etc. It is reinforce their importance as sources of key Other Services Available: H Emergency medical evacuations. important to highlight that scientific evidence nutrients. Leading scientists have released the latest results of the large scale trials related to nuts consumption and health, particularly in myocardial infarction, stroke and cardiovascular diseases.

services available on demand. H Hangar and aircraft maintenance site for the flight testing branch of AEROTHAI (Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd.). H Hangar and aircraft maintenance site for the Flying Unit of the Search and Rescue of Aircraft in Distress, Air Safety Division. Flying Training Division of the Civil Aviation Training Centre. This includes a pilot training program for anyone wanting to ‘test their wings’.

way of life, is open to everybody regardless of their own religion.

ou can’t address Thai culture without talking about feet. Your understanding of the way Buddhism and tradition influences Thai thinking is critical to avoid certain faux pas. The degree to which Thai people are influenced by these social norms is varied, but it’s best to assume you should follow the advice on this page at all times.

H Immigration, customs and health control

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

Volume 5 Issue 2 October 2013

Volume 10 issue 12 October 2013

Events & Promotion