1
April 2014
CHAKRI MEMORIAL DAY Prior to the establishment of the Chakri Dynasty (the current royal lineage), the Kingdom of Siam (former name of Thailand) was in turmoil. Aggressive Burmese troops occupied the Northern Kingdom of Lan Na and were proceeding down south to the Siamese Royal Capital of Ayutthaya. A young man of noble Ayutthaya descent named Thong Duang (born in
1737) commanded the bitter fights in the Northern war. Despite the efforts to fight back, they were gradually forced to fall back until the Burmese had a grip on the Royal Capital. Ayutthaya fell on April 8th, 1767 and the Siamese people fled to the city of Thonburi located further downriver on the mighty Chaophraya River. Continued on Page...4
“Suk San Wan Songkran”
Continued on Page Cover story...10
PRINCESS PA’S CUP ASIAN BEACH POLO CHAMPIONSHIP Top Rated
Wine Bar
Exquisite Cocktails Friday Wine Buffets, AIR-CON., opposite Burger King
The InterContinental Hua Hin Resort together with the B.Grimm Group are hosting the ‘ASIAN BEACH POLO CHAMPIONSHIP’, the only beach polo tournament in Asia.
The Tournament will take place on Saturday 19th April 2014 on the beachfront adjacent to the Intercontinental Hua Hin Resort. The Tournament teams will compete for a Royal Trophy, the Princess Pa Cup, and raise
funds for the ‘KAMLANGJAI PROJECT’ or Inspire by Princess PA. This project was initiated by HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha to reach out to women in prison, including pregnant inmates and women with babies. Six professional polo player teams from Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore, and our host Thai teams will compete. Besides the excitement of the
CRICKET LEGENDS
at The Hua Hin Sixes Former Cricket Legend Craig McDermott along with a long list of former test players will play at the 19th Hua Hin Cricket Sixes, to be played from April 5th 10th. The event has attracted record number of entries with 21 teams from around the globe. In addition, eight former Australian Test great and current Australian State players will be joining 250 players and their families at the picturesque Dusit Thani Hua Hin cricket ground. Continued on Page...25
polo tournament, spectators will have the chance to immerse themselves in variety of activities including a beachthemed fashion show on horseback, a local horse race, a kids’ polo match, games, and luxurious beauty shopping. This year a party with the theme of ‘Hua Hin Sweet Old Days’ will be the climax to the fun-filled Event. For more information call 032 616 999 or rsvn@ ichuahin.com
HUA HIN REMINISCES 2014
This festival will take place on 26th April – 5th May 2014 at Queen Sirikit’s Memorial Park in Hua Hin. This all about ‘retro’. That is music, dancing and costume. For more information, please contact the Hua Hin Municipality at tel. 032 516256 ext. 14
2
Chill-out and Dine by the Beach… Fea tur Liv ing eP erc DJ WET uss & ion CLI SG fr & W IL o C ist & T K Ba m As D SO N at S rum r’s h ia’s ho pet otte no. GKR reli A 1 ne Satu st DJ part N PA s Ho rday plu y cre RTY s w tlin , e fo 12 th A inter , Ban na g p r ti cke ril 20 tiona kok I n 1 ts: l 084 4, fro DJs vade rs 427 m 1 6 208 :00 to 2 01: 00
Located directly on the Khao Takiab beachfront, Shoreline Beach Club offers the freshest seafood and meat or poultry barbecued to perfection. During the day relax beachside and enjoy refreshing cocktails, by night, feel the vibe change with laid-back tunes and sundowners. Be sure to mention Hua Hin Today Magazine to our staff and receive “buy one get one free” on your first order of drinks (bottles excluded) and a 15% discount on your following food & beverage order.
Shoreline Beach Club: open daily from 11:00 to 23:00; Khao Takiab beachfront, behind Amari Hua Hin.
hrs
3 Contents
Editor’s NOTE
The time has passed fast, this is something I heard a lot last month and it’s so true. It has already been 5 months since we moved to our new office to Kao Takiab and it feels like this happened only yesterday. Looks like our new neighborhood is becoming the “in” place in Hua Hin and we love that.
06 FASHION & LIFESTYLE 08 PEOPLE IN BUSINESS 10 COVER STORY 12 GOLF 15 SPORTS 16 WEEKEND AWAY 22 WHERE TO GO TO CELEBRATE SONG KRAN 31 MOTORING 38 WORLD NEWS
April has arrived, with warmer weather and the sea is calling us to jump in and forget about all our concerns. Can you already feel the summer? Here we do and it makes it difficult to work and concentrate for all of us. But soon we will have our big break on 1415-16 this month when we all will be going to town to celebrate Songkran and splash each other. There are so many events during these three days and that’s why we make a special tribute in this issue with all the places “Where to celebrate Songkran Festival”.
Additionally, this month we had the pleasure to interview Han Hakvoort , one of the first foreigners coming to Hua Hin ,you will love his story!
Food and dining are important subjects in the editorial mix of this Newspaper and in our May issue we want to devote a full article to these interests alone. We have realized that trying new restaurants, tasting regional flavours, and visiting markets are increasingly important motivations for going out into the world. So we wanted to see which of all these places we have been to, is your favorite and we will give away a Dinner Voucher for Two for the best comment received before the 20th of April 2014. All past reviews will be posted on our website and Facebook. Looking forward to reading your comments on our Hua Hin Today Facebook. Best Regards, Eleni
Who is in charge?
General Manager: Eleni Mastronikoli eleni@huahintoday.com Editor: Pol. Maj. Gen. Noi Wannapaiboon Sales Manager: Sangnapa Phetpankan (Joy) advertising@huahintoday.com Assistant to the editor: Rotjana Saitakam (Nok) ea@huahintoday.com Graphic Designer: Grit Promprasert, Nicolas Cheimonidis Accountant: accounting@huahintoday.com Journalists: Chamnan Puengjoh, Supansa Kraiwaad, Soravit Eiam-Aek
Group Directors: Business Director: Consultant:
Eleni Mastronikoli Michael Van Doornewaard
Where to find us! Hua Hin Today Co., Ltd Address: Website: Facebook: Twitter:
59/135 Soi Moo Baan Hua Na, Nongkae, Hua Hin Prachuab Khiri Khan Tel. 086 338 2203 / 086 369 3604 huahintoday.com facebook.com/huahintodaynews twitter.com/huahintoday
INSERTS : Food & Wine Lovers Property Today
Some Important Regional Contacts Organisation
Hua Hin
Cha-Am
Police 191 (Emergency) 191 (Emergency) 032 511 027 032 471 321 Highway Police 1193 Tourist Police 1155 Fire Station 199 (Emergency) 199 (Emergency) 032 511 666 Ambulance 1554 Medical Emergency 1669 Electrical Call Centre 1129 Alcoholics Anonymous 089 587 682 Bangkok Hospital 1719 033 616 800 San Paolo 032 532 576 Cha Am Hospital 032 471 808 Hua Hin Hospital 032 520 401
Transport
Bus Station Railway Station
032 514 477 032 512 770
032 471 159
Government Muncipality Immigration Tourist Info Centre Water Supply Post Office Power Board
032 511 047 1132 032 522 656 032 511 047 032 471 005 032 511 677 032 477 646 032 511 063 032 477 252 032 512 215 032 472 069 HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
4 NEWS Thai National Elephant Day By Anantara
...Continued from Page 1... CHAKRI MEMORIAL DAY The beautiful city of Ayutthaya was destroyed by the Burmese, temples plundered, gold and jewelry looted, monks and women were cruelly affected. But the Burmese had suffered heavily in the taking of Ayutthaya and knew the Siamese would return to take up battle. Knowing they could not hold Ayutthaya, the Burmese retreated after only one week. War campaigns continued over the years, ebbing and flowing, until the Siamese armies united during 1779 in Thonburi. Thong Duang now known as Chakri became the military commander. He realized that the Royal Court of King Taaksin was in such disharmony because the King, weary of wars, and had resorted to religion rather than addressing the needs of his subjects. The lack of leadership caused rebellions to break out. Rebels marched on Thonburi, calling for the overthrow and replacement of King Taaksin with their beloved “Chakri.” As a result Chaophraya Chakri took the title “King Ramathibodi” and reigned as King Rama I from April 6 1782 until 1809. As an experienced military campaigner, King
Rama I of the Chakri Dynasty knew that the city of Thonburi was vulnerable to possible Burmese attack from the west. Accordingly, he commanded that a new Capital be established across Chaophraya River. And so Krung - Thep (Bangkok) was created. Chakri Day commemorates the founding of the Chakri Dynasty in 1782 by King Rama I. In the new capital city of Bangkok, King Rama I built the Grand Palace that now houses the Emerald Buddha. In addition, he helped release Thailand from Burmese control, after Ayutthaya succumbed 14 years earlier. In commemorating “Chakri Day” on 6th April, the national flag is proudly displayed by the people of Thailand and both government officials and members of the community participate in traditional ceremonies, making offerings of flowers and garlands at the many statues of Kings in the House of Chakri.
HUA HIN HOSPITAL THREE NOW OPEN
The sounds of proud trumpets, squeaks, chirps and rumbles droned out the harmonious voices of monks during the traditional blessing of the Golden Triangle’s gentle giants on National Thai Elephant Day, when a ten day old baby boy named Nong Sam was shown off to the world for the first time and stole the limelight from the customary age old proceedings. Born on March 3rd at the world famous Elephant Camp at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort outside Chiang Rai, the 85 kilogram baby elephant stands 84 centimetres tall at the shoulder and measures 129 centimetres from forehead to tail. Whereas elephants normally give birth in the night, this healthy boy was born at 11.15am to forty-five year old Boon Jan, her fifth son.
and has since been diversified to include welfare projects that incorporate broader philanthropic and cultural objectives with unprecedented success. Since 2006 the camp has operated under the auspices of the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation (GTAEF).” National Thai Elephant Day takes place every year on March 13th. The aim of the day is to draw attention to the elephant which is the national animal of Thailand and plays an important part in culture, religion and tradition.
He was nicknamed by his mahout (elephant carer), as is tradition, meaning “three” in Thai and alluding to his birth date on the third day of the third month. Being a Garieng elephant, Nong Sam will choose his own formal name at the age of three in a special ceremony involving bits of paper wrapped around sugarcane. According to John Roberts, Anantara Resorts’ Director of Elephants, Nong Sam was the fourth elephant born at the Elephant Camp and the seventh baby raised there. “The Elephant Camp was set up in 2003 to improve the plight of Thailand’s elephants,
Hua Hin Red Cross Launches Holiday Blood Donation Campaign
The Hua Hin Red Cross will conduct the annual blood donation campaign from 8th to 12th April 2014. Entitled, “Blood Donation with Goodwill in Summer”, the campaign aims to save blood for patients in Hua Hin hospitals and neighboring areas for the long holiday of Songkran.
Those who would like to donate blood can do so between 8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. on Wednesday and Friday, between 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday and between 9 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. on Saturday. The Red Cross Clinic is located in Soi 76. On 27th February 2014 the Director of Hua Hin Hospital Dr. Niran Jantrakul with Chairs of the Lions Club and the Rotary Club Hua Hin, the Senior Advisor of the Princess Sirindhorn International Environmental Park Mr Ruud Jansen and others attended an opening ceremony of Hua Hin Hospital Three. The recently opened hospital is located in Soi 89 at the entrance to the Khao Takiab Community and Wat Khao Santi Buddhist Temple. The hospital provides basic and advanced medical treatments for Thai and foreign patients. In the near future, it will have the same medical services as the Chiva Som, a well-known spa and wellness centre of Hua Hin. The hospital has two doctors, two nurses, four other health professionals with ten staff working full-time everyday. It can accommodate up to 100 patients from Khao Takiab, Ban Nong Kae, Ban Mai-Hua Na, Khao Tao and Suan Son Pradipas. The hospital has four zones. The first zone is open from Monday to Friday and reserved for general patients suffering from minor illnesses. Those whose symptoms are serious will be transferred to the Hua Hin Hospital near the Airport. The second zone is the dentistry section which
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
provides dental care, tooth extraction and decalcifying. The third zone provides Thai and Chinese alternative medical treatments, such as acupuncture, foot massage, traditional Thai massage and herbal treatments. The fourth zone, known as Phathra Narakul after its benefactor, is the life and body rehabilitation zone providing medical care for patients with bone, joint and muscle problems and those who have paralysis or paresis. This zone has highly-qualified physiotherapists and modern equipment. In the future the hospital will provide kidney dialysis and liver detoxification. Donations for medical equipment are now being sought. Dr Niran commented that the hospital is 16 Rai land and when completed its surroundings will become a ‘health garden’ similar to the Chiva Som. “The garden will be like a resort for Thai and foreign patients, featuring fully-equipped accommodation. Medical treatment will vary from kidney dialysis, liver detoxification, healthy food consumption and 3-day or 1-week alternative medical courses. Patients will be able to tune their body and mind according to both scientific and natural principles,” concluded the Director.
According to Mr. Wichien Phetnajak, the Chief Officer of the Hua Hin Red Cross, this annual campaign will raise awareness among Thai people of how much important blood donations are to patients and other people who are urgently in need. During Songkran, Thai people usually spend time with their family at home or travel together, resulting in a lower number of blood donors. However more blood is required throughout the period because the longer the holiday is, the more people are injured in accidents. This increases every year.
Although Songkran is a holiday period, hospitals have to work round the clock. Many hospitals in Prachuab Khirikhan still need blood for medical treatment and about 80 to 100 units of blood are required daily. Anyone interested in donating blood can ask for more information from the Hua Hin Red Cross at tel. 032 512 370.
FEET FIRST: LOCALS QUEUE
with their flip-flops during lunch break
That’s probably what the people in the photo wanted to say, but even better, they let their shoes do the talking. This photo of Thais smartly queuing using an innovative, flip-flop technique was recently going viral after being shared to Twitter with the caption “Queue: Thai Level.” Although there are no details of where or when the picture was taken, Twitter @ top10thai suggested the photo was captured
when citizens waited through a lunch break for officials to resume service.
5
6 FASHION & LIFESTYLE Fashion & Tips
Thirdly, you should press your hair with the help of towel in order to remove/dry water from hair.
With Songkhran around the corner, let’s highlight on some ideas of what to wear and tips to enjoy the most famous Thai celebration of the year and hit the town feeling comfy and beautiful.
Then, brush your hair with the help of a comb/ brush, now the gel can be used to give a wet look to the hair. Keep some gel on the hand & use it on the hair.
Songkhran undoubtedly calls for skin-baring bikinis, strappy rubber sandal options, and of course stylish hairstyle and make-up. Make Songkhran 2014 the most stylish one.
*ziploc or DIY rubber swim cap with a zipper to keep electronics devices dry and safe from any water bomb and powder attack! Ready for some fun in the sun, surrounded by water guns? There will be some Fashion Police around town, so don’t be surprise to see a picture of you in the next issue....
Make-Up
I’ve selected a few pictures to give you some ideas as you head to town with your friends.
your lashes would be a fashion faux-pas. - Maybelline The Rocket Volum’ Express Waterproof Mascara - SEVENTEEN Waterproof Mascara - No7 Intense Volume Waterproof Mascara Hot pink lipstick: - Rimmel Kate Matte Lipstick - 110 col. - No7 Sheer Temptation Lipstick-Blooming pink - SEVENTEEN Stay Pout Lipstick - Delenquent - L’Oreal Rouge Caresse Lipstick - cheeky magenta 07 - Maybelline Colour Sensational Vivids - fuschia flash Personally, I love to match nails and lips, but for Songkhran go for an ethnics nails looks like the pics below... Picked your design yet?! Then book right away an appointment to the nail salon and ask for a semi-gel manicure!!! With all the water, powder and the “fights” around town you will need something which last for a while.
Now you can give any wet hairstyle to your hair. How to: wet look hair with a twist! Prepare your hair by putting on some mousse to create volume. Work it from the ends to the roots using your fingers and then comb it through using a natural brush.
From trendy accessories to flirty outfits and classic styles, you can’t go wrong scooping up these looks! Next, dry your hair using a blow dryer and a diffuser. Use your fingers to lift your hair at the roots as you dry your hair to prevent it from flattening out. Now it’s time to create that twist. From the nape, gather your hair and twist it going upwards. Tuck the ends under the twist you created – you can use an end of a tail comb for this – and then secure with bobby pins. To create an edgier look, pull a few bits of hair going down to your nape carefully. Make sure you don’t make the hairstyle lose its shape by doing this.
Sizzling Summer Brights - Waterproof and Colourful all the way during Songkhran.
We can already hear the splashes calling your name, but first let’s decide how to sport the best Songkhran celebration looks! From flirty see-through tops and bikinis to denim shorts, you don’t need much to get ready! Have fun and incorporate new trends into your wardrobe by rocking florals or crop tops.
To make this look work, the key is to keep the eyes as natural as possible – almost no eye makeup, only a touch of mascara if anything. The skin also has to be flawless, so a good tinted moisturizer and concealer is essential. For a trendy look, go for a matte finish. You can use any lipstick you already own – just add a thin layer of powder on top to mattify.
Secure the hairstyle with hairspray.
Hairstyle
The wet hair look dominated the Spring and Summer 2014 runways. Songkhran is the right occasion to put it out in the streets of Hua Hin without looking like we just came out of the shower! So let’s getting in on the action. While it might not be a look for every day, the key in re-creating the slick style is to use wet gel on dry hair — not on wet.
You’re sure to turn heads when you step out in style.
Check out the following instructions and choose the look you want and suits you the most!! Before any style is picked, prepare your hair by firstly washing of your hair with the help of shampoo. Secondly, you must use conditioner for making hair silky & soft.
We also recommend a pair of patterned coloured or black shorts, and a simple tee to look totally casual and cool. Flaunt the cutest sheer coverups and don’t forget to grab your rubber flip flops.
Songkhran Accessories Essentials
*accessories: water guns, buckets, colour powder are easy to find in Tesco, Toys ‘r’ Us... *rubber flip flop from Havaianas: You can find them in Night Market for less than 200baht. Overwise Market Village has 2 shops dedicated to rubber shoes with brands like Crocs and a selection for men and kids. It is on the 1st floor. *bikini or swim-shorts
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
Try mixing two tones for an ombre look. I love a fuchsia & hot pink together – so unexpected but fresh. To really pop a neon lip, I like to apply a touch of concealer or colour-neutralizing primer all over lips before applying a bright shade. This really helps to show the true shade of the lip colour you are applying rather than it competing with your natural lip colour. Here’s my picking from either Boots or Watsons: Waterproof mascara: in black of course. Any other colour to put on
How to: Wet chignon! Apply a volumising mousse all through towel-dry hair and let it dry naturally. If you’re in a rush, flip the damp hair forward and blast the hair dryer on high from underneath. This will give your strands the volume they need. Now focus on getting the wet look. For that, I suggest to apply Argan oil all through the hair using fingers. This will give a silky shine. Remember to only do this once your hair is completely dry. Use your fingers to pull the hair back into a low ponytail. Tie is loosely with a hair tie at ear level. Do note that there isn’t a parting in the hair. For a quick bun: Take small sections of your hair as shown on the picture and band them at the back. Make a bun with the rest of the hair and you are ready to go. ...Continued on Page 7...
FASHION & LIFESTYLE 7 ...Continued from Page 6...
How to: Full wet look hair! Distribute the gel evenly in the palms of your hands and pull it through your hair from the roots to the ends. You are good to go!! So it’s up to you now how to work it. Gel the front liberally and place the rest back in a ponytail, or go for a retro, mad men kind of vibe with a semiglossy faux bob. The shiny style also provides the perfect way to stretch out ‘needs-to-be-washed’ hair with an avant-garde twist. Enjoy your Wet Songkhran!! From Head to Toe....
Intercontinental Polo Fashion Advice
Prefer luxurious and fluids fabrics and accessories in simple silhouettes will be much more appreciated. Here some tips for Every ladies on choosing a hat and outfit for a polo match: 1. Ladies, please do not wear shoes with stiletto heels. A polo match might be held in a beautiful club environment, but you will inevitably walk sands at some point. It completely ruins an overall look if you are constantly pulling your feet out of the sand and feeling uncomfortable. Our solution? A fantastic wedge heel or an elegant and embellished flat sandal can not only complement your outfit, it can make your day so much easier. 3. The ultimate goal for one’s outfit should be to combine comfort with style and polish. I find the easiest way to do this for women, by utilizing the footwear and head accessory tips above, is to throw on a dress. A jersey or sun dress in a sleek, modern cut or a long maxi dress with some statement jewelry pieces can be great for those warm weather matches. Prefer light and pastels colors, like beiges, mocha, lavender, lime and blush pink tones.
With April coming along, it rings the bell of Beach Polo, which will take place at the intercontinental on the 19th of April 2014.
First, it is important to consider what type of match you will be attending, and like any special event, take note of the time and location. There are a few specific tips on what can be both appropriate and comfortable, but overall my opinion is that an “Casual-Chic” approach will fit perfectly for the day.
2. There is no better accessory than a hat for a polo match, as it can both complete a total look and save you from the sun on your head during the hours that you are watching the games. Again, when considering a hat for polo, it is better to leave the long feathered, structured, multi-tiered bonnets at home, and instead reach for a chic panama, more “beach” type hat. Put on great use by wearing your oversized dark sunnies at polo matches, pulling out the “Pretty Woman” side of you.
The collection Offers only high quality Panama Hats; which typicallty refers to the tightness of the weave. The collection comprises a wide choice of designs; including a range designed for kids also”
“To get the total look you will be able to shop The Panama Hats at “Mon Panama” Booth at the Intercontinental on the same day as the Polo.
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
8 people in Business This month Interview with Han Hakvoort in history Before
1968 Martin Luther King Jr.Assasinated on April 4
1997 Tiger Woods at 21 years old. He became the youngest ever golfer to win the Masters Tournament on April 4
During my study as a teacher in physics and biology in Holland, a friend and I were DJ’s at night to make some extra money. From there we started several businesses, including slot machines, which I didn’t like and we decided to separate the business. Financially this was a stupid thing, because he became very rich with this, but I did not like the people associated with this business. Later on we started with some other friends a recruiting business, which became very successful till the economy went down in 1997. In the end we decided it would be better not to continue and we closed down the business.
We then started travelling a lot in search of the perfect place to live. On a rainy in Holland we made a list with criteria to find the right place for us to live. We wanted to live on the beach in a warm tropical climate. It had to be safe, affordable and with good medical facilities available. Great food, wines, cigars and cheeses were also on the list and importantly it should take no more than 24 hours to reach Holland.
Finding Hua Hin
We travelled to many countries and continents and fell in love with beautiful places in the world, like Portugal, South Europe etc. Then we came to Costa Rica, absolutely beautiful but more than 24 hours away from Holland. I wanted to go Thailand, but Petra was not keen due to the reputation it had. Due to a pending business deal I had to attend to, Petra travelled by herself to Koh Samet and we met after 14 days. When I finally arrived in there, I saw the happiest person I have ever seen. She loved the food, she loved the weather, she loved the people and she loved Thailand!
1912 Titanic Strikes an iceberg and sinks on her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York on April 14
We travelled around and decided to go south, the train made a stop in Hua Hin. We had never heard of Hua Hin, but decided to check it out. We got out of the station and found a tuk tuk, the driver had a big scar on his face, so we called him the “contract killer”. We said to each other, if this goes well, then Thailand is the country for us. He brought us to the Nilawan guest house, next to the Marriott. The beach was beautiful, the lady who ran it, Khun Pu, made us feel so welcome. We planned to travel the next day, but decided to stay for 6 days. We continued our trip to the south, but meanwhile Hua Hin had stolen our hearts, three weeks later we returned to Hua Hin. We started reading up on Hua Hin and took out our list again. It was and is a very safe place because the King is staying here and with daily direct flights Holland was well within the 24-hour reach. The Thai food was amongst the best in the world and because the Baht had crashed, it was also one of the cheapest places on earth. Cigars, wine and cheese were not available at that time. Hua Hin scored the highest on our list, an 80% score, so we decided to give it a try. We bought the a piece of land in Koh Tao with sea view and encountered our first bad experience in Thailand, in short we had to buy the land twice, an expensive but good lesson!
2013 The Boston Marathon bombings were a series of two attacks targeting spectators and attendees of the city’s annual marathon race on April 15.
Initially we thought to live half in Thailand and half in Holland, but to give Hua Hin a real chance, we decided to live here full time. We sold our house in Holland and we brought here all our personal stuff. Christmas 1997 we moved into our first house, that we still have. With 7 languages between us, we spoke no Thai, so we took Thai lessons, but ended up teaching them English instead! Wanting to do something in Hua Hin, we looked at many options including growing flowers because of the agricultural history of my family, but foreigners were not allowed in this field. Hua Hin was not as it is now, with just 16,000 people in the greater Hua Hin at that time, to put this into prospective last year 18,000 condos were launched here. There are now many more condos here than there were people living when we came.
The Developer
People started asking about our house and how they could have a house here. And that is when I started White Lotus 1 in 2002. I believe I was the first one in Hua Hin building luxury
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
villas for westerners with the possibility to pay for the lease in yearly installments, considerably reducing the initial investment. My previous experience building houses, working with architects and floor plans came to good use. We didn’t use agents, Arnold Ruys, who had bought a house in White Lotus 1 helped a lot with the sales.
course and valley at the end! Try it next time you are there. Unfortunately issues developed with some shareholders and after a 2,5 year process a settlement was reached ending my connection with Banyan. We had been through a tough time and decided to take a break from all this to find our lives back.
At that time there was only other big developer, Per Ericson, who was focusing on the Swedish community. The 10 planned properties were sold in 6 months. For all materials you had to go to Bangkok, there were no local suppliers. Getting the Thai contractors to build a western style house was a real challenge, but then I found a group of people from Udon Thani that really wanted to learn and we formed a great team.
Finally I was ready to do something again and after seeing that the market had changed, I came up with a new concept “Kao Yai Apartments”, that is half a house, half a condo. All that you want from a house without the hassles of a house (garden & pool maintenance, security etc). Close to White Lotus 2, we found beautiful land overlooking Hua Hin and the sea. There is a huge demand for second homes, but people nowadays want to invest less than before, given the present economic circumstances. The concept is not revolutionary, but new in Hua Hin and I believe this will fill a gap in the market.
In my experience as a developer, I have come across a few customers who are buying houses here at a fraction of the cost in Europe, but they cannot accept the little mistakes that happen. People that want top quality, forget that top quality in Thailand is also expensive because this means that you have to import everything and some times that makes it even more expensive than Europe. I know that some developers cut corners, but over 90% of the developers want to get it right because they want to do phase 1, 2 and 3. They want to have a good reputation. After White Lotus 1, came White Lotus 2, with some of the new buyers ready to finance the additional land. Interestingly, at that time foreigners could not own a car, bank account or even a sim card in their name. House sales in Hua Hin really took of in 2004, when we started the Sanuk project. The Tsunami in Phuket brought Hua Hin even more in the limelight.
Banyan Estate and Golf Course
One of the White Lotus 2 buyers wanted to know what other plans I had, so I showed him the 280 rai land where now the Banyan Estate is. He and some others decided to finance this new project and once the word got around several more investors wanted to be part of this, then came a very wealthy investor asking what other plans there were. I had discovered much cheaper land over the hill behind the Banyan Estate, a whole valley actually, beautiful but with no electricity and roads. Golf was getting big in Hua Hin and having a golf course belonging to the Banyan Estate was the perfect marketing tool to sell these properties. The land was bought over night, approaching the landowners with cash and contracts in hand. We had no experience building a golf course, so we needed help and found the right guy for this, a Thai golf designer K. Op from GolfEast. I wanted to leave the terrain and trees as much as possible in tact. The location of the clubhouse was chosen by me to give the most beautiful valley views and sunsets there are. We wanted to integrate the Thai wooden house style in the clubhouse, mixed in with modern elements. A lot of people don’t know how to look at the club house, when you enter from the pro-shop you see an alley and the views from the club house expand the more you walk through the alley on both sides with a complete panoramic view over the golf
Kao Yai Apartments
Retirement
Retiring in Hua Hin brings a great life with it, but I always like to stay active, I like to advice stay involved in something that I love, or give advise to younger people starting in business.
The Future of Hua Hin
The city is growing fast, it needs a master plan to cope with all the new developments around and in town. The traffic is already a problem and some parts of the beach are not clean enough. I think we should have more lively spots in the city. Places like Cicada Market, the shopping malls, water parks etc add to the lustre of Hua Hin, but being a beach destination, we could do with many more terraces in town and on the beach. Most foreigners want to have their drink outside and watch the people going by. With biking becoming very popular, it would be great to have dedicated bike paths to attract more visitors. The mountains around Kao Yai and Banyan and towards Pranburi are beautiful when experiencing these by bike. With all the huge developments by Thai companies, I am sure that there is a great plan ready for Hua Hin, I hope that this will cover the needs for Thai and foreigners
Core Values
I think this is a combination of how I was brought up, when you give your hand or word, you stick to it. My grandfather bought a ticket in the lottery and the main prize was a bicycle (a big prize in those days) and he said my mother who was a little girl at that time; if I win this the first prize I give it to you. He won and gave her the bicycle because he had given his word. If you have a commitment, you stick to it even if it costs you money, you can put it on the table and you can discuss it, but you don’t run away.
Doing Business in Thailand
If you come as an uptight European and you don’t take advice forget it. You will face a thick wall that you are fighting. You need be patient and don’t expect that you can bring your European attitude to work here, you will not succeed. The Thais are lovely people but you have to give them time and you have to give them respect, which is very important. Hua Hin is where we are at home and we thoroughly enjoy our lives here, our “list” was right!
9
10 cover story SONGKRAN 2014 IS COMING Not A Dry Eye In The House! For centuries, the Songkran Festival has been observed as a symbol of hospitality, love and the importance of maintaining strong relationships within families, communities and society as a whole. Timed to coincide with the Aries period on the astrological chart, an auspicious occasion intended to help people cool off from the mid-summer heat, show respect to family elders and receive their blessings and pray for near and dear ones who have passed away.
However over the years, the holiday has evolved into a nationwide water fight and a fantastic reason to travel and party. Mr. Thawatchai Arunyik, Governor of TAT said, “Though a distinctly Thai celebration, Songkran has become popular with people from around the world who love coming to Thailand for this, sometimes boisterous, often moving festival. “This is a special time when families travel long distances to spend time together, perform traditional merit making ceremonies at the temples and reconnect with loved ones. Songkran allows everyone to take a welldeserved break and the TAT wants to ensure that both Thais and foreigners alike enjoy a happy and memorable Songkran.” This year, the date of the Maha Songkran or the ‘New Year’ is set for 13th April, when day and night are of equal length. This will be followed by Nao Day (Middle day) on 14th April, and the New Year itself on 15th April. Songkran marks the beginning of the new solar year and the summer season in Thailand. The Festival anticipates the commencement of the ‘wet season’ and pays tribute to the role of water in Thai culture and society.
H The custom of pouring water onto the hand of elders’ (people above 60 years old), is to show respect and seek their New Year blessings. H Sand pagodas (Chedi) are built as a way of making merit. H A special cleaning day is held in homes, towns and villages nationwide. This greatly contributes to the sense of community. To get a real feel for how Thai people feel about Songkran in the modern era, a recent survey was conducted with 27 Thai students. Eighteen of the twenty seven think that the Songkran Festival is the best holiday in Thailand. Here are some other responses to survey questions: 1. What is the first thought that comes to mind when you think of “Songkran”?
Exciting and attractive people playing, water wet laugh, funny wet enjoy, water (5), happy (2), exciting (2), visit my family (2), water funny, water festival, water and friends, water and people, hot, fantastic, exciting water, happy relaxation, don’t work, long holiday, time to relax. 2. Do you mostly spend time with family or friends? Family (18), both (5), friends (4).
3. What is the Songkran Festival for you?
A time for me to get wet, enjoy people in Thailand, it’s time for family, go out and eat at some restaurants, meet my family (10), play water with my friends (4), have a party with my family (3), a time relax (3), drink, a time that I go to my house, a time to see movies. 4. What kind of food does your family usually eat for Songkran?
(my grandma cooks for everyone!), ice drinks, ice cream, and perhaps some alcohol, seafood (12), Chinese food (3), pizza (2), many kinds of soup (2), seafood- crab/shrimp/squid, Issan food, grilled seafood, roasted chicken, tomyum gung, suki yaki, noodles, som tam. 5. What is your favorite thing about Songkran? Traditional Activities
Temple activities are the most important aspects of the Thai New Year (Songkran) celebration. Traditionally, families and friends celebrate Songkran by visiting temples and splashing water on each other as a wish for a year filled with good luck. H In the morning, make merit and listen to temple sermons to gain their blessings. As this is a New Year festival, temple activities are the most important aspects of the celebration. H To purify the Buddha or other statues, water should not be poured directly onto the head, rather on other parts of the statue’s torso.
I’m soaked, everyone is happy, put the water with water gun to people, shooting water guns and eating seafood, playing water (6), visiting my family (2), playing water with friends (2), stay home and play games, go to the temple, meet new people, going back home enjoying the long weekend, go out with friends, holiday to relax.
6. Do you or your family have any traditions? Build sand castle at temple (old Thai tradition), go to the temple (17), anoint parents and grandparents (5), anoint Buddha (4), give foods to monks (2), go to grandmothers house on first day (2), stay at home and make dinner, talk to each other, go to the beach, drink wine with my family, visit relatives, make merit, have lunch together, go to the sea Getting wet - You will be fair game, anytime - any place. If you go outside, even dressed in your ‘Sunday best’, you will get wet; mai pen rai, don’t get mad, get even!
So Where Are The Best ‘Wet Spots’?
There really is no designated ‘party place’; it doesn’t matter where you go, if there are
people around you will be welcomed to join in the fun. To get things started there will be an ‘official’ opening and procession on the morning of Sunday 13th April featuring traditional costume, decorated floats, music and dancing.
Hua Hin: The main morning procession and focus of the revelry is at the beach end of Soi 55, then meandering south through the small bar/restaurant area and past the Hilton Hotel. Cha-Am: Head for the Beach Road north, outside the Long Beach Hotel. The procession then travels south, turning into Narathip Road and heading towards the town centre.
If you’re not a Songkran veteran, here are some Top Tips before you hit the streets: H Fight with clean water -- either tap water or containers with clean water.
H Hot water will not be appreciated (room temperature is fine), but, given how hot it is outside, expect to be soaked with ice-cold water, chunks of ice are not OK; but it will happen. H You can fight with water pistols, water buckets, plastic cups (avoid glass) and even garden hoses. For safety reasons, high pressure guns or hoses are off-limit. H Most people on the streets are fair game, but try not to shoot passersby in the eyes, as this is potentially dangerous and irritating. H Dress properly; you are going to get soaked to the skin, so dress for the occasion. First, don’t wear white, unless you’re confident about what lies beneath those clothes. Swimwear underneath may be a good idea if you want to protect what little dignity remains. Don’t wear thick fabrics, such as jeans, as these will get really heavy and uncomfortable. Basically, dress as if you’re going to the beach. T-shirts, board shorts and flip flops are fine. This is the time to get out your most gaudy, tasteless and outrageous clothing, the more colour the better!
Some Words of Caution
Last year government authorities made a list of ‘forbidden’ behaviours for Songkran. Some of these ‘Rules’ were the source of rather cynical social media comment. For example - “Don’t carry barrels of water on pickup trucks, don’t stand or sit in the back of a pickup truck with the intention to play water fights, don’t sell alcohol in designated water fight areas, don’t use high pressure water guns, don’t put ice in the water, don’t play music loudly, don’t buy or sell things on the side of the road and don’t use talcum powder. No news of any similar directives this year; perhaps it was recognised that such a list was doomed and unenforceable. However this is not to say that Songkran doesn’t need any rules. A little civil order doesn’t hurt and safety is always a priority. H Don’t drink and drive: It’s illegal to drink alcohol in a vehicle even as a passenger. H Riding a motor bike is extremely hazardous. We all know that it is stupid (and very dangerous) to throw water over a mobile motorbike, but the reality is that it will happen. Leave your motorbike at home. H Respect those who are innocently on the street minding their own business and obviously are not dressed for the occasion. There will be plenty of other more acceptable ‘victims’. H If you have had a drink or two and amongst the crowd, a ‘call of nature’ may be difficult to manage in a dignified manner. It’s probably one time when ‘peeing in your pants’ doesn’t really matter and no-one will notice! On a More Sombre Note …………………………….
H Ladies, be careful. Some alcohol-fueled Songkran revelers are known for being overly touchy-feely, so be on guard when you’re out playing. Women should be wary of wearing tight clothes or ones that are light in colour and/or made of thin fabric. When wet, such garments can become quite revealing.
Songkran is always full of carnage nationwide, and drunk drivers are usually to blame.
H Bring a waterproof bag if you’re planning to head into the action, put your electronics and valuables in a waterproof bag. Even a Ziploc or plastic waterproof pouch will do.
In the first three days of the holiday there were 1,447 road accidents which caused 173 deaths and 1,526 injuries. The Thai word for ‘War’ is Songkram, so this year let’s keep the celebrations as a real Songkran; make love not war!
H Allowing someone to apply wet powder to your face is considered a nice way to
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
experience Songkran. The powder stays with you as a little “blessing,” even after your clothes have dried. But be warned. Some of those hands aren’t so clean. If you have a dry bag, consider carrying a bottle of clean water to wash the powder off with.
Last year 72 people were killed and 688 injured in 656 accidents on the Saturday, the third of the “seven dangerous days” of Songkran (April 11-17), the Interior Ministry’s Road Safety Centre reported.
11
12 GOLF India’s leading industrialists recognise Thailand as “The Best International Golfing Destination” Thailand has been conferred “Best International Golfing Destination” award by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The award was conferred at the 6th Asia Golf Industry Show organised by CII from 1st-3rd March, 2014, at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi.
Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand New Delhi Office, Ms. Runjuan Tongrut received the award against the backdrop of a movie clip of Thailand’s Golf Ambassador in India, Gaganjeet Bhullar teeing off at one of the many spectacular golf courses in Thailand. Commenting on the award, Ms. Runjuan said, “This award is especially meaningful for us because the CII represents India’s leading industrialists and business leaders. We are all aware that much business is done on the golf course, and I am overjoyed that India’s eminent businessmen and women find Thai golf courses worthy of such a prestigious award.” She added, “We are very delighted to have Gaganjeet Bhullar on board. He is one of
India’s most promising golfers and a huge inspiration to golfers in India. He has often been to Thailand and enjoys playing golf there. We believe that this brand-building partnership will be of a long-term benefit to both Thai and Indian golfers. He also takes care of junior golfers under the
Gaganjeet Bhullar Foundation, which TAT has supported.” Recently, Hua Hin was voted the #1 Golf Destination in Asia at the IAGTO awards in Spain. Hua Hin boasts world-class golf resorts with well-trained caddies.
MAGIC AT THE BLACK MOUNTAIN DRIVING RANGE Black Mountain was delighted to welcome world renowned Trick-Shot maestro David Edwards. During his visit to Hua Hin, he described Black Mountain as one of the best courses he has ever played, which is high praise indeed. David is widely regarded as having one of the best Trick Shot Shows in the business. He has taken his show onto the world stage, performing at the Ryder Cup, Solheim Cup and three times at the Dubai World Championships. He is hugely popular in Asia. Last year he made no fewer than seven trips to China alone – and the 2014 Volvo China Open is on his schedule for this year. Already in 2014, David has performed in Florida and Dubai and has now delighted fans and made new friends at Black Mountain Golf Club.
Don’t try this at home!
2013 REFLECTIONS WITH PROM MEESAWAT HUA HIN’S ‘BIG DOLPHIN’ Asiantour.com talks to Prom Meesawat of Thailand, who shares his thoughts on a memorable 2013 season where he was denied victory in two play-offs.
Assess your 2013 season? I had a good season and I’m happy to finish inside the top-10 on the Asian Tour Order of Merit again. I’m glad I played well at the end of the 2013 season. What was the main highlight for you? I didn’t expect to play so well at the Hong Kong Open. Even though I lost in the playoff but that event was still the highlight for me. If that was the high point, what was the low point? I injured my left knee in June and I had to stop playing for six weeks. If there is a shot that you can replay in 2013, which one would that be?
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
I want to re-hit my putt on the 17th hole again! If I made that birdie then I would have won the tournament. What was your favourite tournament? Hong Kong Open for sure! It was a good tournament even though I finished second. What did you learn about yourself last year? I learnt how to stay focus and patient. I was very focus in every shot that I made and didn’t think ahead. What will you train on for 2014? I will train hard on my fitness. That will help my game a lot in 2014. Who do you think will be the next big star on the Asian Tour in 2014? Gunn Charoenkul. He is a good player and he trains very hard.
13
14 GOLF EDUCATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS FROM THAI AND KOREAN GOLFERS A Thai and two Korean golfers have granted scholarships to students in Hua Hin as well as financial support for bachelor degree courses in Thailand and overseas. Mr. Dusit Charoen commented that after working in the US for several years, he returned to live in his hometown of ChaAm where he and met two Korean golfers
Mr. Sueng Lee Park and Mrs. Enya Wang. They expressed a desire to help students at seven municipal schools in Hua Hin who have excellent academic performance but have limited financial resources. In appreciation of this gesture, Mr. Dusit added his own money to establish a fund for eleven scholarships valued at 66,000 Baht.
This is the second year that the scholarships have been granted to Hua Hin students. The three donors are also supporting students who would like to pursue bachelor degree courses. Mr. Dusit said to Hua Hin Today that he was born in a poor family in Ratchaburi. When he was young he had very little money for lunch at school and almost no money for tuition fees and school uniforms. However he did not give up and kept studying until he completed a university degree. Because of his childhood, he is now determined to help those in need and repay Thai society. Mr. Dusit and the two Koreans have been awarding scholarships since 2000. Initially scholarships were granted to 250 students in Seoul, South Korea and then the project was extended to those studying in Tha Yang, Cha-Am and Hua Hin. Scholarship students are screened and selected by teachers from seven municipal schools.
Golf Tip 2
Chipping made Easy
A monthly feature by John Withers, PGA golf professional at the Banyan Golf Club. Many of my students come to me and find that although they feel that they are striking the ball well from tee to green, they are losing their score around the green by either fluffing or thinning their chip shots. My tip this month should enable you to
Correct Distance in Stance
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
Mr. Dusit added that financial support is
crucial for the educational advancement of Thai students. “If students do not have any money to continue their study, this will result in not only a lack of educational advancement but also human resources with low quality in the future. Scholarships support Thai students who lack financial means but still have a strong will to improve their life� he said.
make more solid contact resulting in closer shots to the hole.
may also find that you have to bend your arms slightly.
The main problem I find with my students is that they let the golf club dictate their stance, this normally means that they end up standing too far away for the ball., fine for a full shot but not good for a chip shot.
Now make one or two practice swings making sure that you hear the grass being cut as you make your swing.
Here is my easy step to get a constant strike on your chip shots Make a stance with your wedge and make sure that your club head is no farther than 12 inches or 1 foot away from your shoe and that your left hand is almost touching the middle of your left leg.To enable this you may have to grip down on the club and you
How to address ball and watch ball position inside right foot
The scholarships are not limited to students in Hua Hin but extended other students in Phetchaburi and Prachuab Khirikhan. Students who would like to apply for a scholarship can contact Mr. Dusit Charoen for more information directly at Springfield Condo Room No. 2103, Cha-Am, Phetchaburi 76120.
Now step up to the ball and using the same swing try a concentrate on only the sound of the grass that is under the ball being cut, you should find that your chip shots are far more consistent resulting in lower scores. Good luck and happy golfing
Tel 0811 426216 Email johnw@gls.asia Website www.huahingolfacademy.com
Maintain wrist position in back swing and through the swing
Head remains still while maintaining wrist position till swing completed
SPORTS 15 HUA HIN / CHA-AM GOLF FESTIVAL 2014
The prospect of overseas golfers taking part in the 13th Hua Hin / Cha-Am Golf Festival is now a reality with an early announcement of arrangements for this year’s Festival.
The Golf Festival invites golfers to play any day during the months of August and September this year on eleven Regional Golf Courses. This is a fantastic opportunity to take advantage of greatly reduced Green Fees with plenty of time for overseeas golfers to arrange their holidays and touring groups.
Nine Golf Courses are offering Green Fees of 1,000 THB: Imperial Lakeview Royal Springfield Palm Hills Kraeng Krachan Sawang Majestic Creek
Suan Son (Sea Pines) The Eagle Milford Royal Hua Hin Green Fees for offered for 1,800 THB: Black Mountain Banyan.
THEY LOVE LAWN BOWLS; BUT THEY’RE BIASED!
Some say lawn bowls is an ideal sport for Thailand. That sounds like a rather glib comment but one that can be justified; here are some reasons: winners isn’t important and some friendly banter after the game is a part of the scene over a beer or two.
H It’s suitable for a warm/hot/humid climate, day or night without stress or severe exertion. H It’s cost friendly, without the need for expensive equipment. H It’s able to be played by all ages, genders and physical abilities. H It can be learned quickly and played competitively without years of experience. H And last but not least … it is one of the few sports with jokes about it! (more later)
Don’t be confused with other sports which involve bowling, tossing or otherwise propelling a ball (or bowl) to a designated target. It’s different from 10 pin bowling, pétanque or even cricket (they do bowl a ball in cricket!). The object is to get as many of your bowls - or your team’s bowls - nearer to the little white ball (the Jack) than your opponents. This is similar in some respects to curling or shuffleboard or bocce. That sounds simple; however blocking bowls and many other tactics will come into play. It’s played on a tennis court sized ‘green’ either on grass or artificial turf. Your bowls are about 12 to 15cm in diameter and weigh up to 1.5 kg. They are black or brown in colour and are flattened on one side, so that they curve when rolled. They are designed to be propelled with an underarm motion; the skill of the bowler guides the angle of attack and the speed or ‘weight’. Lawn bowls has been around since the 14th
Century, although at the one time banned in France and England because archery was losing popularity and soldiers’ archery skills were essential. Probably the most memorable historic moment took place on Plymouth Hoe (in England) on July 15th 1588. Francis Drake insisted on finishing his game before taking on the attacking Spanish warships. The game is most popular in English language countries such as Canada and New Zealand, along with Australia and the British Isles, but it has also caught on in pockets of Asia, Scandinavia and USA. It’s played in over 40 countries and in the Commonwealth Games since 1930. It’s a huge participation sport wherever it’s played.
Further information may be obtained from the TAT Offices at: Prachuap Khirikhan email: tatprachuap@tat.org.th or Petchaburi : email: tatphet@tat.org.th Local golfers are encouraged to put this Festival on the international map. Contact you home overseas Golf Course and really make it happen!
HUA HIN CITY FOOTBALL CLUB FIXTURES 2014
One of the advantages of lawn bowls is that you can be a part of the competition very soon after your first attempt. Once you understand the influence of the bias of the bowl and get speed and accuracy right you won’t be embarrassed.
Here are the next two months fixtures for the Division 2 (Central West) League. This is the Division where Hua Hin City features. The home team is mentioned first. Hua Hin City home games are played at the Fort Thanarat Army Base stadium, just North of Pranburi.
This was my first attempt to play a real lawn balls game and I did manage to win a point or two. New players are always welcome either as visitors or perhaps joining the Club.
Saturday 05/04/2014 16:00 THONBURI CITY Vs HUA HIN CITY Saturday 26/04/2014 18:00 MUANGKAN UTD Vs HUA HIN CITY
Where? The Hua Hin Bowls Club is based at Sea Jays Resort, about 6 kilometres inland from Hua Hin. Visit the website for directions and a link to the Lawn Bowls page.
Saturday SEEKER
www.seajaysthailand.com Phone: +66 (0) 833 111 787
Saturday 17/05/2014 16:00 HUA HIN CITY Vs SAMUT SAKHON
As promised – a Lawn Bowl’s Joke! A little old man boards a bus with a lawn bowls ball in each of his front pockets. He sits down next to a beautiful young lady, and she can’t help but glance quizzically at the man and his bulging pockets. It’s an uneasy few minutes before, finally, the little old man can take no more. “Bowls balls,” he nods reassuringly. The lady seems a little shocked, and stares on. Moments later, she says: “Does it hurt as much as tennis elbow?”
Sunday 25/05/2014 16:00 RATCHAPRUEK Vs HUA HIN CITY
Saturday 03/05/2014 16:00 HUA HIN CITY Vs THAI FLEET 10/05/2014 17:00 Vs HUA HIN CITY
Central West Region Table
Lawn Bowls in Hua Hin I was invited to join the Saturday morning completion of the Hua Hin Bowls Club. This is the only bowls green in the region and as we understand it, other in Thailand are in Bangkok or Pattaya. The Club has regular players although the flavour is more social than competitive. That doesn’t mean that ‘bragging rights’ for the
Source: www.thaileaguefootball.com
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
16 A weekend away
Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas
Although just 30 minutes away from Hua Hin, the moment you enter this beautiful hotel, you feel like you are on a holiday far away. Right from the entrance of the hotel, you come to a tropical paradise, with lush exotic gardens, wooden walkways surrounded by water with blooming lotus flowers. Whatever stress you took with you, you loose it there straight away, it is amazing how this place calms you and lets you relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Trtopics I was cordially greeted by Khun Oom and the reception, like the other buildings, is an open building, just the way you imagined the tropics. All the staff are very friendly and moving around on bicycles adding to the natural atmosphere. I was then taken to our private pool villa, surrounded by high walls finished off with loam and straw to give them a very natural look. Using natural colours and materials, the villa’s atmosphere is very relaxing and so tropical with complete privacy. The villa is large with a half wall separating the bedroom from the bathroom and the private garden behind it, where the outdoor shower is. The overflow pool in front of the villa with levels so that you can lie in the water and the sunken
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
sala next to it, makes you never want to leave the villa. Even when the hotel is full, you would never know, because all guests enjoy their villas so much that they just stay there all day. From wherever you sit or lie in the villa, what you see is tropical in the most beautiful way and all you can think about is how relaxing and enjoyable the place is. You forget about your phone, the internet (although it is there of course) and the TV, just the way a perfect holiday should be. Right outside the bedroom there is a sunken bath, a perfect to way to relax in the evening. This villa surpassed all my expectations of what a truly tropical and relaxing holiday should be like. The next morning I went for breakfast, the buffet had a great selection of western and Thai foods, as always the staff was so attentive and friendly. I went back to my room, it was time to check out, but I just did not want this beautiful experience to end. One more jump in the pool, one more look around the villa and then it was time to pack my bag. This was a truly unique experience, a perfect stay that will stay in my memory for a long time! For more pictures please check on our Facebook Hua Hin Today
17
18 Events & promotions Calendar
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
19 April 2014
NEW PETCHABURI ADMINISTRATIVE COURT TAKING SHAPE It’s About Citizens’ Rights Construction of the 293 million THB Petchaburi Administrative Court commenced in May last year and is due for completion in December this year.
The new Court building is an impressive four story structure. There will be 14,200 square metres of floor area with courtrooms, judicial tribunal meeting rooms, litigation consulting rooms, conference and meeting rooms, a
litigation support department and library. This is located on the western side of Petchakisim Road about 15 kilometres North of Hua Hin. So What Is An Administrative Court? Following the promulgation of the 1997 Thailand Constitution (including a reference to Administrative Courts), an enabling Act was passed in 1999 and the Administrative Court started operations in March 2001. Since then it has progressively strengthened its operations, making it easier for citizens to lodge their complaints. The Administrative Court’s main jurisdiction is to settle litigation between private citizens and the State; including government ministries, departments and independent agencies. Although in no way limited to matters related to the environment, this is an area that the Administrative Court has chalked up its greatest successes on behalf of citizens hurt by sins of
This year’s Hua Hin Regatta takes place along the beach
omission or commission by state agencies.
Unofficially it’s increasingly referred to as the ‘People’s Court’, defender of last resort of the people’s rights and protector of the environment. There are currently 14 Regional Administrative Courts operating with the Chumphon Administrative Court having jurisdiction over the Provinces of Chumphon, Prachuap Khirikhan, Phetchaburi and Ranong. The Administrative Statement
Court’s
Mission
To try and adjudicate cases impartially and swiftly in order to assure the protection of rights, liberties and administer justice to the parties in dispute. To set precedents in the area of administrative law as the guidelines for good practice in public administration for State agencies and officials.
The vision is “to adjudicate administrative disputes, to render justice with a view to maintain equilibrium between the people’s rights and liberties and the public interest”. This is delivered by the Administrative Court’s use of an inquisitorial system, under which it is empowered to ascertain facts and evidence on its own, as opposed to the accusatorial system used in the Courts of Justice. (References: www.admincourt.go.th , Office of the Official Information Commission)
Cha Am Summer Fun Festival 2014 The Phetchaburi Municipality and the Tourism Authority of Thailand are staging “ChaAm Summer Fun Fest 2014”, a special music festival held to celebrate the arrival of summer. There will be a combination of musical artists, hip-hop’s acts as Joey the Boy, Zero Hero, Cyber Japan, followed by a fashion show with dancers, bands and other performances.
by the Regent Chalet Cha-am Resort with 7 days of racing from April 21–27, 2014
See you on Saturday, April 5, 2557, at Cha-Am Beach. Shows start from 5.00 pm to midnight, free of charge.
The Regent Cha-Am Funds New School The Regent Group Corporation, a wellknown hotel business for over 30 years, has realised the importance of human resources development this business. In response it has recently established the Regent Cha-Am Hospitality School (RHS) to support the Thai tourism industry and resolve the shortage of operational staff for Thai hotels.
The TCT is collaborating with the Department of Labor Protection and Welfare to formulate a plan and set up criteria for a competencybased academic qualification exam. The new criteria will be standardised and used in all ASEAN member countries so that students who graduate from the RHS can use their degree to work overseas.
According to the chair of Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) and a Management Board Member of The Regent Group Corp. Ms. Piyaman Techapaiboon, Thai tourism business increased by 19% last year with 8 million people employed. The need for more staff is increasing each year.
Another Management Board Member of the RHS Mr. Akkaphol Prueksawan also said that Thailand was lacking a skilled operational workforce as many Thai students did not want to pursue vocational education. To make things worse, some university degrees do not respond to the need for service and hospitality businesses.
“The increasing need for more workforce results in the lack of well qualified operational staff at hotels and tourism offices in the country,” said Mr. Piyamarn. “Therefore, the RHS was founded.” “Believing that effective human resources are very crucial for service and hospitality works, the RHS aims to create graduates fully equipped with theoretical and practical knowledge. The students here will study with experienced and highly qualified instructors who have worked for hotel and tourism businesses for quite a long time. They will become a potential workforce to enhance competitiveness and leadership for the tourism business in the future,” added Ms. Piyamarn.
“The RHS will serve such increasing need because it can create knowledgeable, practical and qualified personnel who will be able to work full-time for the hotel and tourism business and strengthen their professional future,” added Mr. Akkaphol. “Here, we emphasize students’ professional skill and efficiency. Our graduates will see more chances for career promotion thanks to the high standard curriculum that responds to ASEAN requirements. Apart from specialised courses, students have to study English and Chinese for future careers because knowing these languages will enable them to work outside the country.” For the academic year of 2014, the RHS offers
4 9-month courses: Front Office, Food and Beverage Service, Housekeeping and Food Production. “Each course will be taught by highly qualified instructors and students will undergo professional training in order to successfully graduate. The class-based learning takes 6 months and the on-the-job training another 3 months. Tuition fee for Front Office and Housekeeping is 83,000 Baht whereas the rests cost 98,000 Baht,” said Mr. Akkaphol. The RHS’ director Ms. Phimpha Methathamrongsiri added that the tuition fee were reasonably priced because it included learning materials, textbooks, uniforms, a training venue, 3 meals daily and safe and
convenient accommodation for all students. “Studying together at the RHS not only enables students to share experience with their peers but also encourages them to study and work closely with their instructors,” said Ms. Phimpha. “The first batch at the RHS includes 120 students, 30 of whom will take one of the four courses provided. Interested students can send us application and take a general English exam and an interview from now on until April. The courses will start in June,” said the RHS Director who finally concluded that not only did the school aim to help students become professional service providers but it also provided knowledgeable human resources.
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
20 Cha-am NEWS SEASUNFUNFLY
2014 International Kite Festival Cha-Am The Cha-Am beachfront is always a colourful scene. On the weekend of 8th – 9th March it reached new heights in more ways than one. Apart from the clear blue skies and beachgoers, the weekend of the 2014 Thailand International Kite Festival provided the most colourful skies the beach has ever seen. Kites gracing the skies came in all shapes and sizes. Some huge and designed as a mythical and real animal (dragons, horses, cats,fish), cartoon characters and even Father Christmas. Some whirling in the brisk south easterly breeze or ‘fleets’ of highly maneuverable stunt kites in choreographed displays to a musical accompaniment. The International aspect of the Festival was in evidence with Kite Teams from Germany, Italy, New Zealand, Singapore, France, Malaysia, China, Indonesia as well as three Thai Teams. One of the features of the Cha-Am beach is the ‘kites’ on sale every day. The local version is a polystyrene aeroplane, which is not very durable (hard to get it home in one piece) but very popular with the kids. I couldn’t help but feel sorry for the local vendors during the Festival; very hard to compete with either
Riding Motorbikes in Heavy Rain
The Thai Raining Season is Coming The raining season is coming and we should practice for bad conditions. Riding in the wet is inevitable in the Thai raining season, but crashing isn’t. Give yourself the best chance possible to not only stay upright, but to enjoy riding in the wet as well.
the spectacle provided by the ‘visiting kites’ or the new varieties of kites on sale to beach goers! Previous Kite Festivals directed the Tourism Authority of Thailand have been held on at the Army Camp midway between Cha-Am and Hua Hin. Moving the 2014 Festival to the wide expanses of the beach at the northern end of the main Cha-Am beach proved to be a great success with easy access, high visibility (easy to find by accident) and the background of the Cha-Am beach scene. Same again next year please!
Knowing the road is an important part of wet weather riding because you’ll know where puddles form, mud gathers or corners are slippery. If you know the corner ahead has a manhole in the middle, or the road under the flyover gathers water in heavy rain you can be prepared. Having said that, a road surface can and will change on different days so reading the ever-changing surface is extremely important. You’ll need to be more observant at this time of year, constantly scanning the surface, watching other traffic, adjusting lines and adjusting speed. Don’t forget that many a car driver will hit the brakes when more than 7 rain drops land on his front window. Don’t tense up when you see something you don’t like hard braking is a sure-fire way of tipping you off. Learn to ride around problems smoothly and use more rear brake at this time of year to gently drop off speed without testing the front tires as much. Look after your visor. Clean your visor before every trip, inside and out. Then apply water repellent coating to the outside and de-mister to the inside. Heavy rain wet roads take longer to dry, but rush hour traffic has a habit of drying where
JUST A WALK IN THE CHA-AM FOREST PARK
If you enjoy exercise by way of a gentle stroll, ‘power walking’, bicycle riding or even breaking into a jog, there’s probably only two places to do this within a few kilometres or so of the Cha-Am town centre.
This is a small but very beautiful Forest Park just a couple of kilometres south of town off the main road. The 665,600sqm area was established on the 4th March 1992 and part of Don Masang National Reserved Forest. It sits on a lowland area covered in shady trees and a wide range of tropical plants. Crisscrossing the park, a large, freeform lake is home to species of water birds and an
When it comes to the physical aspects of wet weather road riding, think about being relaxed, you know you shouldn’t fight what the motorcycle is telling you and you’re constantly looking at your lines and how to make the most of the available space. Swap speed for smoothness, plan and keep an eye out for oil and you might find you end up enjoying yourself. Getting to your destination in one piece should be your primary goal. A final word…..Songkran is the most dangerous time of the year to ride a motorbike………..DON’T!
The Amarin Outdoor Unlimited International Triathlon 2014
island with a colony of white-handed gibbons. It offers long walks protected by shady trees and unique flora and fauna. Families and couples come here to chill out and picnic. You will see a mix of Thai people and expats who have found an alternative to ‘elbow exercise’ at the bar. There’s also an area to set up overnight camps around the lakes, as well as park-operated bungalows and restaurant. It’s not a campout in the jungle but rather a relaxing overnight excursion in beautiful natural surrounds. This is not a sophisticated park and some maintenance issues could be considered. One example is the growth of imported grasses into the waterways. However as a convenient ‘chill-out’ venue for family outings and school groups looking for relaxed parkland away from the traffic it’s ideal. Where: About 3 kilometres south of the traffic lights in Cha-Am town. It’s an easy bike ride AND free. Contact: Tel. 0 3243 3661, E-mail reserve@ dnp.go.th
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
It’s not being cocky looking at weather forecasts, it’s being sensible. Choose yourself a reputable forecasting website and make it your homepage, that way you’ll always know what to expect.
This inaugural and exciting new International Triathlon took place at the Nasuaran Camp on March 16th 2014 in Cha-Am. Supported by Amarin, the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Singha, The Amarin International Triathlon is set to become one of the largest Triathlons in South East Asia with an attendance of 500 racers from around the world.
After all it’s no fun trying to negotiate the ‘footpaths’ which are far from user friendly if you don’t appreciate dodging street vendors, stray dogs and bicycle hire shops. The likelihood is you’ll spend more time on the road with ‘footpaths’ crowded by of everything except pedestrians. One alternative is the beach. But if that’s not your thing, or for that matter a bicycle ride is preferred, then the Cha-Am Forest Park is the place. An asphalted path invites you to meander through the forest setting, perhaps in the early morning or late afternoon. There’s also some low key equipment for your stretching exercises.
tires and engines have driven over it. So pick your route.
Winners
Standard Triathlon: Swim: 1.5km, Bike 40km, Run 10.8km First Men’s Ben Hammond First Women’s Carole Fuchs Second Men’s Jaray Jearanai Second Women’s Lyndesy Fraser Third Men’s Erik Bohm Third Women’s Sarah Wheeler Sprint Triathlon: Swim: 750m, Bike 21km, Run 6.8km First Men’s Vinnie Santana First Women’s Second Men’s Saranon Chantaraj Second Women’s Third Men’s Songsak Sripiboonbunjeart Third Women’s
Ceri Ruzzi Suzanne van de venne Magali Josselin
Duathlon Run: Run 5km, Bike 40km, Run 10.8km First Men’s Second Men’s Third Men’s
Sutat Kamlayankiti Ekkarat Phanthip Pravit Wongpinich
First Women’s Nathalie Leger Second Women’s Chorthip kanouam Third Women’s Leonie Plaistowe
TEAMS FIRST: SECOND: THIRD:
Wiriya Chanaman / Atiptorn Lue-gnam-iam/ Songphon Sripiboonbunjeart Tungsomboon Monton / Panyathip Saksri / Atinan Jetiya Jeff Laguito/Chaiyasit Kanjanapas/Siriporn Sothikul
The triathlon event is being organized by Active management Asia, a reputable sport event management company specializing in athletic events such as marathons, triathlons, trail running, road & MTB races and adventure races. AMA is operating in Thailand and Southeast Asia.
21
22 WHERE TO go to celebrate songkran Hua Hin Today would like to suggest where you and your family can celebrate Songkran or the “Thai New Year”. This may be to one of the many fantastic resorts or hotels around town to enjoy a meal or some entertainment. You may also wish to take part in one of the festival events we have listed. One thing is for sure; there is no shortage of things to do to make your Songkran 2014 the best ever! BOOK YOUR SPECIAL WINE & DINE OCCASION ANANTARA RESORT
regions of Thailand. Sunday 13 April 2014 from 19:00 to 22:00. THB 999 net per person for adults and THB 450 net per child for children 12 years and under. (Free for children under the age of six)
Celebrate Thailand’s famous New Year Songkran festival with a truly Thai night to tantalise your palate and stir the senses. Savour a lavish buffet of Thailand’s finest Regional specialties. We immerse you in the Kingdom’s vibrant cultural heritage with long drums, traditional music and enchanting dance performances. Sunday 13th April 2014 at Sai Thong Restaurant from 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm.
For guests looking for a Thai New Year lunch gathering, Aqua Pool Bar is offering the Songkran “Summer Splash”, a great family fun day at the poolside with special games and activities throughout the day with prizes and traditional hawker style Thai food and drink stations around the poolside. Songkran “Summer Splash” Live Hawker Style Thai Street Food Stations around the Pool on 13 and 14 April 2014 from 11:30 to 16:00.
BANYAN GOLF CLUB HUA HIN
THB 999++ per adult and THB 449++ per child (aged 6 - 12 years) Prices are per person and subject to 10% service charge and 7% government tax.
Offering food and gift sets to the 19 monks, each set can be purchased for THB 200.-
BANYAN MASTER 2014, Sunday, 13th April 2014. Each player will be drawn with a golf professional competing at Augusta National the same weekend. The final results will be the combined nett score of both players. Saturday’s scores from Augusta National will be used. Sign up now for the Banyan Masters 2014. Tee times from 12.00 p.m. Great prizes to be won.
‘EVERYONE IS WELCOME’ local Events Hua Hin
Sonkgran Foam Party 2014 - on 1st Floor at Hua Hin Market Village.
THB 3,200 per person and THB 1,500.- for club members (inclusive of green fee, caddy and awards ceremony BBQ dinner. Golf carts is optional at THB 750.-, (one cart per player) THB 1,000 for dinner only
CENTARA GRAND Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin
‘Yuk Wan Wan’ Songkran at Baan Phon” this event will take place at the Phon Kingphet Memorial Park in Hua Hin.
For more information call 032 520 250
AMARI HUAHIN
Amari Hua Hin invites guests to celebrate this Thai New Year with a Songkran Special Buffet Dinner. Showcasing an array of truly distinctive and traditional culinary delights from the four
Celebrate Songkran at Banyan The Resort, Hua Hin. Experience Thai Traditional activities, various Thai signature street food and cultural performances from the North. On Sunday 13th April, 2014 Morning Thai Traditional Activities:8.30 am. The pouring of scented water on a Buddha image for the New Year blessing. (Meeting at the resort lobby) at 9.30 am.
A Remarkable Songkran Sunday, 13 April 2014 7.00 p.m. - 10.00 p.m. at Palm Terrace. Price: THB 1,900 net per person dress code: Colourful Smart Casual
Reserve your ultimate experience - Tel. +66 (0) 3251 2021-38 or E-mail : chloehu@chr.co.th
REST DETAIL HOTEL
‘Plearn Songkran’ - at Plearn Wan shopping arcade, Petchakasim Road, Hua Hin.
“Songkran talad nam hua hin sam pan nam” is at the Floating markets to celebrate the reign of Rama 6.
CHA-AM
Sunday, 13 April 2014 Splash night BBQ seafood and around the world buffet from 6.30 pm. 10.00 pm.
THB 1,500 person excluding drinks. For more information call: 032 547 733
PUTAHRACSA
13th APRIL 2014 AT THE CHA- AM MUNICIPALITY
7.00am. food offerings to the monk’s alms bowl, 9.00-10.00am. cleanse Buddha images and sprinkle water on older people., 12.30pm. Songkran parade starts from Long beach Hotel to the municipality offices., 7.30pm. Concert: Lulu & Lala, Ponglang R Siam, Comedians and fireworks
PRANBURI
Saturday 12th April 2014: Don’t miss out on Hua Hin’s Best Beach Chill out for the Thai New Year/ Songkran. Spend a fabulous Saturday night with us and savour our cool BBQ Beach Buffet along with great chillin’ sounds from “Jazzohol”, a bottle of Chandon and a one of a kind beach atmosphere. At the Oceanside Beach Club & Restaurant 1,699 THB++/person. From 18.30 – 21.30 pm. More information call: 032 531 470
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
You are invited to celebrate Songkran with traditional activities, sport on the beach, a parade and local tradition dancing (Ram wong) - 12th -13 April 2014. For more information contact at TAT Prachuabkirikhan call: 032 513 885, 032 513 871
23
24
NEWS 25 Continued from Page...1 CRICKET LEGENDS AT THE HUA HIN SIXES Australian legend Craig McDermott along with his Australian Internationals colleagues Shaun Graf, Dutchy Holland, Michael Taylor and Mick Lewis will join former and current State players in South Australian speedster Dan Worrall, hard hitting Victorian Michael Hill, all rounders Mike Dighton and Aaron O’Brien. This promises to be an exciting week in Hua Hin.
Phetchaburi Journalist Day
The Phetchaburi Governor Mr. Monthien Thongnit Chaired the opening ceremony of Phetchaburi Journalist Day on 5th March 2014 at Royal Diamond Hotel Phetchaburi. The Chairman of Phetchaburi Media Association Mr. Suraphol Naknakorn is pictured with Board Members of the Association.
Four highly competitive teams will play in the Cup competition where Melbourne Red will be defending along with Melbourne Blue and local favorites Thai Thevada and Thailand Colts. In the Masters competition, seven teams including Thai Masters (locally known as Siam Cricket Club), Western Australian Black Swans, Melbourne Masters, Victorian country side Euroa, Coorparoo CC from Queensland, Also inclueded are Lardna Follies led by Australian legendary diplomat Brett Farmer and star studded Bangladeshi side
‘HORSING AROUND’ ON THE BEACH
Narayanganj CA with a list of former test players. Surprisingly, the most popular competition of all, the Veterans will field ten highly competitive sides of golden Oldies (over 50s) from Australia, Indonesia and Thailand. The Victorian country side, Baden Powell will look to defend the trophy it won in 2013 with challenges coming from other Australian sides in Leongatha Woodchoppers, Western Plain, Old Xaverian CC, Melbourne Vets, Gold Coast Tigers and Cluden Veterans. Indonesia will be represented by Larngna Follies while Hua Hin Hopalongs and Soi Cowboy will fly the local flag. The tournament organizers would like to thank the Dusit Thani Hua Hin, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Bangkok Post, UOB Asset Management and Singha Beer for their supports. Matches start at 8AM on April 5th and end on April 10. The Dusit Thani Hua Hin and Tourism Authority of Thailand will host Grand Opening and Farewell Awards dinners on 5th and 10th April, 2014.
Like it or not, horses on the beaches of Hua Hin and Cha-Am is a one of the defining scenes of our coastline. Although not unique to local beaches, we all expect to see a passing horse or two during our time on the sand. They’re very visible but not obtrusive. Their handlers are very eager not to cause too much disturbance or inconvenience to beach-goers.
Probably the only opportunity Thai kids will ever get to experience a horse ride is during the family holiday to the beach. It’s also a photo opportunity that many find hard to resist.
The Thai Pony or Thai Country Bred is a native horse of Thailand. While they are thought to have come from Mongolian stock, their origins are a mystery. These animals have been used as pack horses in mountainous areas for many years. Due to this isolation they have developed without the influence of outside breeds for the most part, although more recently an attempt to improve them has introduced the blood of some Australian, New Zealand and English pony stock.
We were invited behind the scenes to meet one of the horse owners, Khun Jung, a horse ride operator for the past ten years. Like the majority of the horse owners he operates a family business with just a small number of horses, four in his case.
All horse riders on the beach must hold a government issued permit. You’ll always see them wearing a vest with a number displayed. It’s a bit like a taxi license; restricted in numbers and able to be bought and sold. One of the conditions is that the horses are inspected every three months and must satisfy authorities that they are in good health, vaccinated and have suitable stable conditions. Another incentive to maintain the condition of the horses is their appeal to potential customers. No one wants to seen riding a horse that is unattractive because of lameness, poor nutrition or skin ailments. Khun Jung’s property is just inland of the railway line. This is adjacent to Springfield beach where he and nine other families have the ‘rights’ to operate. He must make a judgment about when it is worthwhile to take a horse or two to the beach, typically on weekends and holiday periods. This involves crossing the main highway, perhaps a hazardous journey but one that is not daunting to either horse or rider. We met ‘Jackpot’, ‘Pepsi’, ‘Sri Mok’ (cloudy) and ‘Khan Mahk’. Jackpot is the favourite partly because his cream coloured coat is appealing to customers, clearly good for business. All horses are male, some gelded,
some not. Apparently keeping to one gender resolves any ‘relationship issues’ between horses on the beach! We understand that a female horse on an adjoining property is a major distraction enroute to the beach for Sri Mok! Pepsi (the colour was right) will soon be sold off to a breeding farm, perhaps lucky for him, but really because his behaviour on the job is causing Khun Jung some concerns. Kicking is the problem, an unacceptable trait. Horses have a potential working life of about 15 years. Training takes about two months and the younger horses may be two years old at this time. Horse prices are in the vicinity of 60 -70,000 THB, no small investment for these families. Another cost to be added is the saddlery which can only be purchased in Bangkok. Horse rides generally cost around the 600 THB mark. Perhaps this sounds a little pricey at first glance, but considering the investment these families make and the operating costs, maybe a reasonable rate. Next time you are taking one of those mandatory beach photos with a horse featured in the shot, think about a decent tip to the horse operator, they’ve earned it.
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
26 island Awards Thailand’s Island Gems voted among the world’s best by TripAdvisor travellers Some of Thailand’s most pristine islands have once again been acclaimed by international visitors who recently voted them among the world’s best. In the latest international poll for TripAdvisor’s 2014 Travellers’ Choice Awards, Ko Tao in the southern coastal region of Thailand was named the 10th best island in the world.
Ko Tao
Ko Tao is a popular scuba diving destination Ko Tao was also voted the Number 1 island destination in Asia, along with Ko Phangan (No. 3), Ko Lanta (No. 4), Phuket (No. 7) and Ko Samui which came in at No. 9.
Mr. Thawatchai Arunyik, Governor of TAT, said, “These votes in the TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards mean a great deal because they come from travellers who’ve enjoyed real experiences around the world.
“The high ratings of Ko Tao, and other islands in the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea, show how people have come to not only appreciate the pristine state of these lovely places, but also the fact that they all offer a wide range of accommodation to suit a range of budgets. And all travellers get to experience the wonderful hospitality for which Thailand is famous.” Located just off the mainland province of Surat Thani in southern Thailand, Ko Tao can be reached by speedboat or ferry from Samui and the mainland. Once there, travellers can enjoy powdery, white sandy beaches washed by the waves of crystalclear sea water.
Ko Tao – which means Turtle Island – was given the name because its pristine beaches have long been breeding and egg-laying sites for green turtles. Today, the island is Thailand’s most popular scuba diving destination and there are many diving schools, shops, resorts and diving tour operators which cater for beginners and experienced divers alike. There is also an ongoing drive by the local people and authorities to preserve the natural wonders of Ko Tao and keep it clean and pristine, while trying to cater for the many young people who go there, with a range of food and nightlife options. Also found in Surat Thani, the island of Ko Phangan is well known across the world for its pristine beaches and breathtaking scenery, while nearby Ko Samui, which can offer holiday experiences to meet a range of tastes, has long been famous for its lush interior and lovely beaches.
Ko Phangan Phuket
On the western coast of the Thai Peninsula, Phuket continues to enjoy its reputation as the Pearl of the Andaman and one of the top travel destinations in Thailand. The island has its own airport which is currently being expanded to handle some 12.5 million passengers a year by 2015, and increasing numbers of international airlines are introducing direct flights to Phuket.
Also on the west coast of Andaman Sea is Ko Lanta, which lies between Krabi and the islands of Phi Phi. Though not long established on the tourist trail, Ko Lanta has won the hearts of travellers from all over the world with its stunning scenery, shady private beaches and surrounding emerald waters. Thailand’s islands can be visited all year round. For more information, visit: www. tourismthailand.org
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
Events & promotions 27
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
28
29
30 Last month
Mr. Alexander Parry General Manager of Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am Beach Resort & Spa presenting the trophy to the winners at “The Amarin Outdoor Unlimited International Triathlon 2014” which took place at Naresuan Camp Hua Hin on 16th March 2014.
Congratulations to the new SIYA-KT clinic for Health & Beauty using oriental medicine.The grand opening was on 23rd of March 2014.
On 1st March 2014 players teed off in the Mondo Vino Hua Hin Wine Experience Charity Golf Tournament at the Banyan Golf Course.
Putahracsa Baristas Learning The ‘Espresso di Manfredi’ Way
Putahracsa Team Members from the Ob Oon Bakery have taken the opportunity to enhance their barista skills. Espresso di Manfredi is more than just coffee. The Putahracsa Team Members can now ensure that guests will always experience ‘coffee culture’ at the highest level. Mastering this world famous blended coffee style provides coffee not only for taste but also as a memorable visual experience.
V VILLAS HUA HIN AWARDED CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE BY TRIPADVISOR
V Villas Hua Hin recently announced that the multi award-winning the hotel has added yet another feather to its cap. TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel website awarded it a “Certificate of Excellence” for the year 2013 as a testament to the hotel’s high standards based on feedback from guests. The Certificate of Excellence honours businesses that consistently earn top ratings from TripAdvisor travellers. With a rating of 4, V Villas Hua Hin has earned a place amongst the very best! The award which is given only to the most exceptional performers in TripAdvisor’s global business community, is a significant achievement for the hotel that has already won numerous other awards.
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
An Exclusive “Marqués de Murrieta” Wine Dinner at Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin
An exclusive Marqués de Murrieta Spanish Wine Dinner was held recently at The Palm Terrace, Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas Hua Hin. Pictured are Jan Weisheit (1st left, back row), Director of Food & Beverage and Albert Jan Van Beusekom (1st right), Food & Beverage Manager. This special event also attended by Ivan Aquino, Export Director of Marqués de Murrieta Winery, Kritsadarng Vijitpanya (2nd left, back row) Hua Hin Branch Manager and Pongsak Tiamsuttikarn (2nd left) Marketing and Sales Director from World Class Wine.
NEWS 31 Introducing New Indian travel agents visit Tourist Police Commander new Thai tourism products, gets confidence boost The new Tourist Police Commander has discussed with the local press about how Thai tourist police provide safety for both local and foreign visitors in Hua Hin.
On 26th February 2014 Commander Pol. Maj. Gen. Aphichai Thi-amat joined other police officers cleaning up the beaches and collecting garbage in preparation for the upcoming high season in April. Also assisting were staff from Hua Hin Municipality, Centara Grand Hotel, Hilton Hotel and members of many local associations and clubs of Hua Hin. According to the Tourist Police Commander tourist attractions in the country such as Hua Hin beaches, Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai, Koh Samui in Surat Thani and Phuket, are the main responsibility of the Thai tourist police. They are also keeping a look out for criminals who may cause problems for tourists in Bangkok and other Provinces. He commented that these problems have decreased in recent times.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Aphichai explained that he has asked police officers to set up small teams to patrol areas under their supervision at night and work cooperatively with local police officers in areas at risk. In addition, more CCTVs have been installed on major roads and night markets for tourists’ safety.
Supervising all tourist police from 35 stations throughout Thailand and another 700 police officers, Pol. Maj. Gen. Aphichai found that in major tourist regions such as Koh Samui and Phuket more police are required. “The more foreigners visit Thailand, the more income the country and its people will earn. Chinese people are increasingly coming to Thailand. We also welcome Malaysian and European people, including those from Scandinavian countries. Thai police are responsible for ensuring that they will travel safely here,” concluded the new Tourist Police Commander.
Spectacular new travel and tourism products emerging all over Thailand were the primary focus of a familiarisation trip for 30 top travel agents from the Indian market organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand between 3-10 March, 2014. The group visited Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, and Bangkok. On March 6, the group had a table-top business networking session with members of the North Thailand travel trade and then visited the Chiang Mai Convention Centre before departing for Hua Hin, via Bangkok. On 7-8 March, the agents visited Hua Hin Railway Station (Thailand’s most beautiful train station), Plearnwan live museum, Cicada night market and Santorini Park before taking some time to shop at the Venezia Mall.
The importance of European & German visitors to Thailand
The agents departed for Bangkok in the afternoon of 8 March, 2014, and were hosted to a business networking dinner with the Thai travel trade at the Dusit Thani Hotel. All the participating agents said they were most pleased and impressed with the organisation and content of the trip, which they said will go a long way towards helping them design creative and interesting tour packages for their clients. TAT Governor Mr. Thawatchai Arunyik said, “Although the focus of this trip was more on introducing the range of new products, we also included some long-standing natural and cultural attractions which are very popular with families, especially children.”
INDIAN AND RUSSIAN TOURISM MARKETING NEEDS REFINEMENT
Thailand’s hotels, tour operators and meetings companies need to move their marketing from the national level down to city, language or demographic niches if they want to be more successful in reaching tourists from India or Russia, say industry experts Backpackers these days are just as likely to arrive with a laptop, tablet or smartphone and they need to know they can stay connected, say travel experts.
Industry operators need to avoid the “sin of over-generalisation” and closely observe visitor behaviour in order to create rewarding travel experiences those visitors will talk about when they go home, said Prof Philip Pearce of James Cook University in Queensland. “Listen to the stories they tell and don’t just rely on satisfaction indexes,” he said. “Successful marketing now requires the ability to provide an ‘experience economy’
that is in tune with generational changes, sustainability and new technology.
Prof Pearce said that “techpacker havens” were increasingly important - places where travellers, luxury or budget, can plug in social media devices, use large screens, hold Skype conversations with families back home, download music and service mobile and social devices. Ravi Bhatia, Director of Indian Host, an India-focused hospitality group in Bangkok, has called for Thailand and India to “reconnect” their deep historical and cultural similarities. “The number of Indian tourists visiting Thailand could easily double in two or three years,” he said. However, Thais need to pay more attention to Indian culinary and wedding needs. “Tofu isn’t found in any Indian restaurant,” he said. “And don’t present vegetarian food to look or taste like meat - Indians will not choose it. He recommended that Thailand concentrate on the Indian wedding market and having Bollywood films made on location in the country.
The European market has long played a major role in the development of Thai tourism. In 2013, European visitor arrivals totalled 6.3 million, up 11.62% over 2012. In 2014, European visitors to Thailand are expected to reach 6.73 million. In addition to the number count, European visitors are very important because they have the longest average length of stay. For example, the average length of stay
of visitors from Germany is 18 days, as against 7.15 for India and 7.95 for China. Germany was once the top source of arrivals from Europe. Its drop to third-place status is due to stronger growth in arrivals from other markets; such as, the UK and Russia, as well as competitive pressure from other destinations and uncertain economic conditions in Germany generally.
Andrey Snetkov, the Contract and Marketing Manager of TEZ Tour, which specialises in the Russian market, said 90% of trips to Thailand were still arranged by Russian travel agents as the online booking and credit card networks in Russia were still not trusted. He lamented that many Russian travel agents lacked first-hand experience of Thailand so their recommendations to clients were frequently ill-informed. Familiarisation trips for travel agents are an important way to remedy this.
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
32
NEWS 33 ‘SHOCK THE MONKEY’ CELLAR-BRATING SALT ‘The Art Of Salt’ Festival 2014 A meandering monkey saboteur survives 22,000 volts
The humble salt cellar on our dining table doesn’t get much thought. Although salt may be considered one of the essentials of life, whether that be in relation to enhancing food flavour, preservatives, cleaning, health spas or it’s many industrial uses, we tend to take the good old NaCl for granted. After all, salt has been around for literally centuries.
However in Thailand and particularly Petchaburi salt is big business. ‘The Art of Salt’ is an annual festival which celebrates salt production on the brine ‘salt farms’ on the coastal plains to the north of the Province. Driving from Cha –Am along the scenic route north (the ‘salt road’), after about 30 kilometres, you travel through one of Thailand’s most unusual landscapes. This flat, desolate coastal region with its natural mangrove vegetation and bird life is also where much of Thailand’s salt is produced, ‘farmed’ in large squares of brine. Production takes a month over three stages; first, briny water is pumped from the nearby Gulf of Thailand into the flat paddy-like squares and left to evaporate in the tropical sun. As it dries, the crystallised salt is raked and rolled smooth, fields glistening in the sun like ice rinks. Finally, the salt is piled into little pyramids, collected by workers carrying bamboo poles balanced with wicker baskets to be cleaned and bagged. Considering
Thailand produces around 1.2 million tonnes of salt each year, this is labor-intensive work! On three days in March at Ban Laem the second annual “Art of Salt’ festival offered a wide range of activities all about salt. These included special talks at the folk salt museum, workshops on making plain salt, an experiment salt spa, and bird sculptures made of salt, as well as learning about salt farming and the history and life of salt farmers. You could even get to ‘test drive’ a salt-grinding vehicle. The event also highlighted famous desserts and souvenirs from Ban Laem, as well as booths selling fresh and dried seafood products from nearby fishing villages. The event was planned as a collaboration of the TAT, Phetchaburi’s Office of Commercial Affairs and the Phetchaburi Rajabhat University (PRU)
Happy 100th for Don Mueang, Asia’s Oldest Airport It’s been a battlefield, and it’s been bombed, strafed and given up for dead.
But Don Mueang, Asia’s oldest airport, was running strong on March 8th as it celebrated 100 years of service. DMK is expected to see 18 million passengers this year, according to airport chief Chaturongkapon Sodmanee, with new airlines such as Thai Air Asia X, NokScoot and Lau Central to launch service there.
That’s a far cry from seven years ago when the airport was shut down, only to fully reopen due to demand in 2012. In its storied history before that, the airport was damaged in fighting during a 1933 royalist revolt, occupied by WWII Japanese forces, bombed by the Allies, and was allegedly the site of a CIA “black prison” in 2002.
One meandering monkey knocked out the power for hundreds of Hua Hin residents on 12th March. Hua Hin police and electricity officials rushed to the residential compound of the municipality office on Phetkasem Road after reports that a male macaque had been seriously injured from being electrocuted. They said the animal may have lost its way, wandered into the town and climbed an electricity pylon supporting 22,000 volt power lines before it was electrocuted. The animal’s mishap caused a power outage to the area around the municipality office for an hour. Full power was restored to the town by 10.30am. After the monkey’s lights went out, so did those of Prachuap Khiri Khan. Though seriously injured, the macaque was not killed and is now under the care of veterinarians at
English teaching reform in Thailand to begin this year Caretaker Education Minister Chaturon Chaisang has urged all English teachers nationwide to create new standard for English teaching in a bid to improve students’ English communication skills as soon as this year.
Speaking at a meeting on English language educational reforms today, Mr Chaturon reported about one million students were able to read in Thai but needed improvements, while more than 100,000 students could not read at all, no need to mention that vast majority of the students have such poor English skills.
Now if we could just agree on how to spell its name in English.
Rice prices dropped to 8,000 - 8,200 baht per ton The prices of rice have dropped to the range of 8,000 - 8,200 baht per ton for grain with 15% moisture content with predictions that prices may dive even further down to 7,000 baht per ton. Rice millers are now offering the said prices only for off-season rice, as rice farmers have begun to unload their freshly harvested crops, reports indicate, citing that 7,000 baht per ton price is the lowest level in 6 years. Currently, rice traders are keeping their eyes on the government’s policies on the
management of its stockpile of rice, as its rice pledging scheme will soon come to an end. Analysts pointed out that the government might rush to sell the stockpiled rice to obtain the money to pay rice farmers who have yet to receive the rice pledging program money, forcing the prices to drop further. According to the Commerce Ministry’s record, the price during the first 3 months of 2009 was quoted at 2,125 baht per a 100-kilogram sack of white rice; currently, millers offer only 1,475 for each 100-kilogram sack.
Berners-Lee, the World Wide Web Foundation and the World Wide Web Consortium asked people to take action to protect and enhance the open Web in 2014. W3C will convene experts at a symposium on the future of the Web in October. the Web Foundation is spearheading the Web We Want movement, a global campaign to ensure the legal protection
of Web users’ rights in every country.
Recalling his tweet during the 2012 Olympics, “This is for Everyone”, Berners-Lee said: “The Web’s billions of users are what have made it great. I hope that many of them will join me in celebrating this important milestone. I also hope this anniversary will spark a global conversation about our need to defend principles that have made the Web successful, and to unlock the Web’s untapped potential. I believe we can build a Web that truly is for everyone: one that is accessible to all, from any device, and one that empowers
to be more accurate compared to normal teacher-centred classes. The Minister said he had instructed Ministry personnel to outline implementation drafts in order to reform English teaching in Thailand, otherwise Thai students will be behind their peers in other countries. The implementation plans will be applied in other schools as well, not only those supervised by the Office of the Basic Education Commission of Thailand (OBEC). The reform outlines will be based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, teaching, assessment (CEFR), the internationally recognised framework that describes students’ language ability on a scale of levels from A1 for those who completed sixth grade, A2 for those who completed ninth grade and B1 for those who completed twelfth grade or those with high-vocational certificates. The reform is mainly inspired by how students learn to speak Thai at home and later learn to read and write Thai in schools, Mr Chaturon said, adding that from now on, English lessons will be focus more on class interaction to improve student’s communication skills.
At present, many Thai students could not speak English fluently even after learning the language for 16 years as teaching in the past focused only on improving student’s reading and writing skills. Mr Chaturon, however, noted that electronic devices used in education allow teaching
The World Celebrates 25 Years of the Web Web users across the globe share birthday messages on 12th March to mark the day Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web. People everywhere joined the Web inventor in wishing the World Wide Web a happy 25th birthday.
the Kasetsart University Hospital Maybe Hua Hin needs some Monkey Police.
all of us to achieve our dignity, rights and potential as humans.” The Web has transformed society in a very short time. However, difficult challenges lie ahead: H How do we connect the three in five people around the world who are not online? H What fresh, inclusive solutions can avoid a fragmented Web? H Our ability to have a say and organise collectively online is under threat from censorship and surveillance, whilst anyone online is threatened by cybercrime. How can
The ministries will first catagorise Thai schools into three level of readiness ranged from high to low, so that different teaching method will be implemented appropriately for each school. Thai teachers will also need to improve their skills, while more electronic devices will be used in the classrooms to improve Thai education. ICT devices will be used as well as special classes being set up to promote academic performance in Thai students.
we meet needs for online freedom, privacy, and security? H Globally, fewer than 10% of key government datasets are free to re-use online, drastically limiting Web-powered innovation. How do we unlock the power of open data? H The Open Web Platform must be capable of expanding to meet industry demands across many connected devices. How do we tackle the challenges raised by such diversity? H How do we promote a rich ecosystem of innovation for the long-term, rather than less fertile walled gardens?
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
34 MOTORING The New Ford Fiesta The new Ford Fiesta in Thailand delivers large car quality in a compact car designed to exceed the highest expectations of customers downsizing.
The stylish new Fiesta meets the global trend for downsizing by setting a new quality benchmark with a dynamic exterior and a harmonious and ergonomic interior offering new and enhanced features. “The new Fiesta takes craftsmanship and ergonomics to the next level in the compact-car segment, and will shift customer perceptions of what a compact car should deliver,” said Ernst Reim, Chief Interior Designer, Ford of Europe. “We’ve worked incredibly hard to improve the new Fiesta experience for customers,”
smoothly and eagerly. In fact, it’s so strong that there’s little point in upgrading to the 123bhp Ecoboost.
Ride & Handling Star rating : H H H H H
The Fiesta changes direction with an immediacy that many an exotic sports car would be proud of. Factor in minimal roll in corners and plenty of confidence-inspiring grip, and you don’t have to drive very far to realise that the Fiesta is the sweetest handling supermini you can buy. It also rides more smoothly than most supermini rivals.
On the road, new Fiesta continues to offer class-leading driving quality and comfort while retaining Fiesta’s signature sporty handling.
a bit of suspension noise over patchedup surfaces. The pedals are consistently weighted, too, while the gearshift is slick and supremely accurate.
Behind The Wheel Star rating : H H H H J
Performance
The big-car refinement of the Fiesta is matched by big-car comforts in the front of the cabin. There’s loads of seat travel, plenty of support for your back, and two-way steering adjustment so that most people can find the ideal driving position. The funky, mobile phone-inspired dashboard works pretty well, too, although the on-screen menus that need scrolling through to access minor functions could be more intuitive.
Star rating : H H H H J Ford offers nine engines, but the 99bhp Ecoboost petrol is the pick of the range. It pulls strongly from low revs and revs
1.1 Refinement
Star rating : H H H H J The Ecoboost petrol engine hums a bit when you put your foot down, but otherwise there’s little to disturb the peace, aside from
Power and the Glory Unveiled Switzerland may have a rather staid reputation but that sure as heck-fire doesn’t extend to its Geneva Motor Show.
LAMBORGHINI HURACAN
BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT SPEED
It feels as if Bentley release a new scorching car at every motor show - and Geneva was no
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
Star rating : H H H H H
All Fiestas come with stability control and seven airbags, including full-length curtain ’bags and a driver’s knee ’bag. The car also received the maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash tests. Deadlocks and a visible vehicle identification number make life difficult for thieves.
Star rating : H H H J J
The Fiesta is roomier than many of its rivals, so most people will have plenty of space in the back. There’s a decent boot, too,
MASERATI ALFIERI
That’s not a pair of typos. Apparently the rear wing generates 830kg of down force when the car’s travelling at... 440km/h. Needless to say, the One:1 could well be named the fastest production car ever very soon. If your interest is piqued, then you’ll have to move fast: only six will be made. ALFA ROMEO 4C SPIDER
different. Its Continental GT Speed saw some tweaks to its styling but the headliner was its fine-tuned 6.0-litre W12 engine which is now capable of getting the big rig up to 331km/h making it the fastest production Bentley ever. McLAREN 650S
A new Lambo doesn’t come around all that often, so it was still a big deal when the Huracan broke cover in Geneva, despite the Italian company already releasing details and images of the car a couple of months back. The stylish Gallardo replacement will get to 100km/h in 3.2sec thanks to a 5.2-litre V8 engine throwing out 448kW and 560Nm.
Safety & Security
Space & Practicality
The 2014 edition, which kicked off last month, had some particularly spectacular cars make their debuts, the sort of vehicles with spec sheets that make jaws drop and looks that make you drool. True, they’re also cars most of us will never even have a chance to see in the flesh let alone park in our garage - but we’re allowed to dream, right?
but when you want to enlarge it, the rearseat backrests merely flop onto the bases, leaving a step in the floor.
It’s pretty amazing what car builders can do these days. A 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 is a hefty piece of machinery to be sure, but certainly isn’t outrageous in the world of supercars. But what is impressive is the performance McLaren gets out of such an engine in its 650S: 0-100km/h in 3.0sec flat, thank you very much. Also worthy of applause: the 650S Spider convertible on our cover can hit 200km/h in 8.6sec - 0.2 slower than the coupe.
Arguably the sexiest-looking car of the bunch, Maserati has called its Alfieri four-seater a concept. But it certainly looks close to production and, hopefully, the marque doesn’t make any major design changes should it opt to roll out a similar mid-sized coupe en masse in the coming years. KOENIGSEGG ONE:1 Never mind your sports/super/ hyper cars; Swedish auto makers/ mentalists Koenigsegg are calling their One:1 a “megacar”. That’s not just marketing spin. Its 5.0-litre twin turbo V8 purportedly offers - brace yourself - 1000kW (aka a megawatt) and 1371Nm of torque.
Those not among the 120 or so who have already forked over money for the midengined coupe may want to wait even longer. Alfa showed off the arguably even more attractive Spider version at Geneva and, despite weighing in 60kg heavier than its coupe sibling, Alfa says the soft-top retains the 4C’s trademark dynamics. AUDI TT
In the more affordable category Audi was busy as ever, showing off its new S1 and S3 Cabriolet. But it was its new TT that was of most interest. Looks-wise, it harks back to the model’s roots, while there is a range of diesel and petrol engines. A 2.0-litre 228W turbo-petrol unit on the TTS tops the overseas offerings.
MOTORING 35 BEST CARS MAKE THEIR MARQUE
The votes have been counted and the finalists for the 2014 World Car of the Year awards have been announced, with topend vehicles, people movers, SUVs and affordable passenger cars all in the running for the title. In their 10th year, the awards see 69 independent motoring journalists from 23 countries collectively choose 10 finalists in the categories of World Car of the Year, Luxury Car of the Year and Performance Car of the Year. The Car Design of the Year and Green Car of the Year categories are whittled down to five finalists by separate panels of design and environmental experts. This year saw cars receive an equal number of votes, meaning there are 12 cars in the running. BMW is the best represented company across all categories with four models making the cut - including two in the running for the major prize: the 4 Series and i3. The electric i3 is also the most nominated model after being voted into three categories: World Car of the Year, Green Car of the year and, somewhat surprisingly to many, for its car design. The finalist list shows buyers of all budgets can get themselves into a great car, with the Mazda3, Octavia, and other possible winners in the Ford Mondeo and Peugeot 308 certainly not solely in the buying range of the wealthy. The winners will be announced at April’s New York Motor Show.
WORLD CAR OF THE YEAR
Lexus IS
Skoda Octavia
LUXURY CAR
PERFORMANCE CAR
GREEN CAR
Alfa Romeo 4C
Audi A3 Sportback e-tron
Audi RS 6 Avant Honda Accord Hybrid
Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
CAR DESIGN
Audi A3
Cadillac ELR
Ferrari 458 Speciale Cadillac CTS
BMW 4 Series Maserati Ghibli
Cadillac CTS
Ford Fiesta ST Citroen C4 Picasso
Porsche 911 GT3
Lexus IS
Porsche Macan
Jeep Cherokee
Rolls-Royce Wraith
Volkswagen Golf GTI
Volkswagen XL1
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
36
Tel : 032
512 503 Fax : 032 535 618
Back to school party On the 25th of March 2014 something big was happening at Baan Nokkachan bar in Kao Takiab, a birthday party with all ladies and many men dressed in school uniforms! The girls especially looked great in their uniforms.
The great location, right next to Cicada, the live music from the house band and the friendly staff helped making this party one of the best in town. The pictures tell it all, this was a great evening with many people from the real estate business present. Kao Takiab is getting a more and more popular place to go out and enjoy.
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
st rchh 22001144 Maarc m 0011st M ““FFro rom ry BBaakkeery in H a st in u H H a st O 4 u 1 H 0 2 4 1 t c 0 2 t c 1 O -- 331 uunnddaayy”” S ry e S v e ry e e v s e lo e c s l il lo c w l il w
Coming up 37 HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2014
THAI GIANT MAKES Consumer Electronics Show AN IMPRESSION
Tromsø, Norway’s Snow Festival 2014
One of the fearsome giants of a Thai myth, and a popular character from the kingdom’s ancient Khon masked dances, took his place among other great characters in much a colder land than old Siam. Despite being crafted from snow and sitting in freezing temperatures, the giant sculpture kept his Thai smile and impressed visitors to the Tromsø International Snow Festival, recently held in Norway. Here are some of the highlights and trends seen at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, USA:
linking to the cloud were numerous. And the show saw the introduction of some powerful new “phablets,” as well as bendable displays.
1. Wearables: From connected socks and bras to baby clothing, wearable technology with the ability to transform computing was an overriding theme at the huge electronics fair. There was no showing of Google Glass, but other connected eyewear and apps for Glass were prominent, as was the first-ever “wrist revolution” zone.
6. Robotics: For play, work or entertainment, robotics took up an increasing amount of floor space. Robots designed to teach children programming as well as “telepresence” robots were showcased.
2. The Internet of Things: A connected toothbrush, basketball and tennis racket showcased the many uses of embedded technology in everyday objects. 3. Televisions: The major manufacturers showed off their biggest displays, including “ultra HD,” curved screens and interactive features. The tech and entertainment industries unveiled new partnerships to deliver highdefinition content which can benefit from the format. 4. Automobiles: A record nine automakers were at CES, highlighting the importance of technology in the vehicle. A fully self-driving car was not part of the show, but driverless parking was demonstrated. And General Motors announced some cars would have 4G Internet connections. 5. Smartphones: If the smartphone was already the centre of personal technology for many, it has now become the foundation for many innovations at the show. Apps leveraging the computing power of the smartphone and
7. Drones: Grabbing a lot of attention was a handful of exhibitors of personal drones to be used as toys, or for professional photography and cinematography. 8. 3D Printing: Advances in 3D printing technology on display at CES suggest this technology is ready for the masses. Singaporebased Pirate 3D introduced its Buccaneer home printer that sells for $497. 9. Smart homes: Home appliance titans LG and Samsung added their might to a trend of letting people command and even exchange text messages with stoves, washing machines, vacuums and other household equipment for tending to the demands of daily life. Another new twist at the show came from makers of Internet-enabled door locks. 10. Intuitive computing: Technology firms want to get rid of the mouse and touchpad. New computer and gaming hardware at the show was imbued with software that recognizes gesture, voice and even eye movements as people are freed to interact with devices naturally instead of having to click on icons or use touchscreens.
Thailand Presents “Thainess” Theme at ITB 2014
The giant’s creators were three renowned Thai ice sculptors who made up one of five teams of 14 professional sculptors from nations including Norway, Russia, Germany and Italy. These teams were all invited to exhibit their work in the lovely square near the Nestranda in Tromsø to mark the inaugural Tromsø International Snow Festival 2014. Among those who saw the displays, there was little doubt that the five masterpieces set a standard which will be challenging to beat in the years to come. The four-day snow festival was organised by the Thai Tromsø Forening in conjunction with the Royal Thai Embassy in Oslo, the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) Stockholm Office, Thai Airways International’s Stockholm Office and The Norwegian Barents Secretariat.
Introducing World Cup 2014 box, offering live broadcast of every match
In anticipation of the upcoming World Cup 2014, a first-ever phenomenon has been introduced to the Thai market to allow viewers to watch the matches 24 hours a day. Over 100 Million baht has been invested to introduce the World Cup 2014 box to expand its distribution base to reach every target group including satellite dish distributors and 7-Eleven. With this box, viewers can watch the World Cup 2014 matches anywhere, anytime in Thailand. All of the 64 matches will be broadcasted live, plus highlight programs and re-runs throughout the day, exclusively on World Cup Channel. An added bonus is free viewing of La Liga 2014-2015, as well as RS quality content and digital TV channels. The box is priced at 1,590 baht and is available at satellite dish distributors and 7-Eleven nationwide, starting April 18. A one-minute TV commercial will hit the screen to raise awareness and reach the potential clients. RS expects to sell over a million boxes in the first phase.
Thailand’s core marketing theme of “Thainess” was at the heart of the kingdom’s presence at ITB 2014, the world’s largest travel trade show. This year, ITB 2014 marked the 49th anniversary since its inauguration in 1966. It also marked Thailand’s 40th year of participation. Over 110 Thai exhibitors and travel and tourism operators were participating. The team included senior executives of hotels, tour operators and travelrelated agencies. In line with the “Thainess” theme, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) also proudly presented a new global marketing and promotion tagline “Amazing Thailand. It begins with the people.” At the Thai Pavilion, all guests and visitors were welcomed with “Thainess” by extending the Thai greeting “Sawasdee” (meaning “well-being”). TAT Governor Thawatchai Arunyik said, “Both
the ‘Thainess’ theme as well as ‘It begins with the people’ tagline reflect our core values as a people and society, as well as the increasingly human-centric aspect of Amazing Thailand. “It deepens the emotional value of visiting the country, a value that is linked to the people in their attitude, hospitality and spirit. Today’s travellers are choosing destinations and services that satisfy deeper need for participation, creativity, community, and idealism.” TAT has organised a number of activities to ensure that Thailand maintains a high-profile presence at the trade show, which is attracting record participation due to the phenomenal growth in the global travel and tourism industry. As such, TAT has to ensure that it maintains the country’s competitive edge in the face of many emerging new destinations worldwide,
Mrs. Nalinee Pananon, Director of TAT Stockholm Office said, “We’re supporting this festival as a way of showing off some evocative elements of Thai culture to other nations. This is a part of our Thainess meets the world tourism activities. “The elaborate snow sculpture – a three-metre high head of the mystical Thai giant or Yak was expertly carved by our team of three professional ice sculptors.”
The box also offers other content to attract other groups of viewers such as all 380 matches of La Liga 2014-2015, Copa Del Rey, the Spanish national team’s home matches and other RS programs for everyone in the family such as soap operas, movies, music and variety
programs from all five of RS’s channels namely Channel 8, Channel 2,Starmax, YOU Channel, Sabaidee Channel and Sun Channel. The box can also receive every digital free TV channels based on each channel’s broadcasting signal condition. The World Cup 2014 box is priced at 1,590 baht and will be available at 7-Eleven and satellite dish distributors nationwide starting April 18. For more information, call 1781.
and their strong marketing campaigns.
Other activities at the Thai pavilion included:
At the Thai pavilion, visitors enjoyed a Thai spa demonstration by RarinJinda Wellness Spa, a winner of the Thailand Tourism Awards and a popular spa amongst local and foreign consumers.
1) “Happy Hour Reception”
Over 35,000 brochures promoting more than 50 types of travel opportunities in Thailand were distributed. Special focus was placed on promoting beach resorts; such as, Ko Samui, Ko Chang, Phuket, Pattaya, Khao Lak, Hua Hin; Natural and Cultural destinations like Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Ayutthaya and Kanchanaburi, and promoting special-interest activities; such as, diving and golf.
2) “Thailand Green Excellence Awards Germany” HRH Princess Ubol Ratana presided over the ceremony to present the awards to travel agents and media in Germany who have promoted eco-friendly tourism to Thailand. 3) “Thailand Mini Mart @ Berlin” TAT overseas offices in Europe invited buyers from new and niche markets to arrange pre-appointments with sellers from Thailand.
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
38 world news Missing flight MH370: now the plane is ‘lost’, what next?
Without any confirmed sighting, the mystery of what happened to MH370 is very much unresolved. So what happens next?
Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has announced that a “credible” sighting had been made in the Indian Ocean, about 2,500km south-west of Perth, based on satellite imagery of two large objects. The announcement by Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak that MH370 is assumed to have crashed into the southern Indian Ocean, with no survivors, had a degree of finality to it.
But without any confirmed sighting, let alone recovery of any part of the plane, the mystery of what happened to MH370 is very much unresolved. Inmarsat, the British firm handling the electronic “pings” said to have been sent from MH370 for hours after its last contact with the ground, said it had now determined that it must have flown south. While the search had
already been focused on the southern of two “corridors” indicated by the plane’s final ping as a potential final location, it had still been officially possible that it could have ended up somewhere to the north. The US navy is also moving a black box
locator into the region, called a Towed Pinger Locator. In a navy statement, Commander Chris Budde said: “If the wreck site is located, we can hear the black box pinger down to a depth of 20,000ft. Basically, this supersensitive hydrophone listens for black box pings.”
OFF BEAT WORLD NEWS Strange news stories from around the world
GERMANY: Flatulent cattle behind farm explosion
A German farm shed has exploded due to a buildup of methane gas from cows, police say. The shed, in the central German town of Rasdorf, was home to around 90 cows, Reuters reported. The explosion damaged the roof of the building and one of the cows was treated for burns. It’s believed high levels of the gas emitted by the cattle had built up in the shed. Police say a static charge caused the gas to explode with flashes of flames.
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
JAPAN: Police officers ‘forced to eat 15 burgers at a time’
A police sergeant in Japan has resigned his post after he was reprimanded for forcing subordinates to binge on 15 hamburgers at a time to “toughen them up”. The unidentified traffic sergeant, 40, stepped down from his position in the western megacity of Osaka. The mass-circulation newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun said. He repeatedly ordered four younger officers to, in one sitting, stuff themselves with bulk meals such as 15 hamburgers, 15 donuts, four large-sized cups of instant fried noodles, or 3-4 litres of coffee-flavoured milk, the report said. “After finding they were not working hard enough, I did it in order to toughen them up,” the unnamed sergeant was quoted as telling investigators of the Osaka prefectural police headquarters.
ENGLAND: A croc may be on the loose.
Police in southwest England are on the alert after a 1.83m crocodile was reported to be on the run. Nick Gargan, the Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police, says the reptile has been spotted under a bridge in Bristol. “One of our officers was flagged down by a bus driver today, claiming to have seen a 6ft crocodile under Coronation Bridge. We can’t find it,” he wrote on Twitter. When asked whether there was a crocodile on the loose, Mr Gargan replied: “it may mean precisely that, madam. No need to stay indoors - but you may want to think twice before you go water-skiing.”
USA: Snake-handling pastor dies from bite
A snake-handling American pastor Jamie Coots had been handling serpents for more than 20 years, citing a passage in the Bible from the book of Mark that reads, in part: “They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them. Coots was handling a rattlesnake during a Saturday night service at his Full Gospel Tabernacle in Jesus Name Church in Middlesboro when he was bitten, said preacher Cody Winn. “Jamie had one of the rattlers in his hand, he came over and he was standing beside me. It was plain view, it just turned its head and bit him in the back of the hand,” Winn said. When an ambulance arrived at the church, they were told Coots had gone home, but an hour later, he was dead from the venomous snake bite.
39
40 Spa & HEALTH
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR AN ESCAPE ? The Escape Spa is inspired by the tropical sea. The way from the spa reception into the treatment room is through carved walls with small openings on the top which let the sun come through and create an amazing atmosphere. Escape Hua Hin offers you ultimate indulgence rejuvenation and pampering experience. A unique tropical retreat like no other, Escape Spa offers a seamless combustion of heavenly relaxing spa treatment alongside beauty and health
The Venue:
programs; providing a one step service for optimizing your health, appearance and well-being in body and mind.
We all have passed the red walls on Petchkasem road and have seen the sign ESCAPE. In my case I didn’t know what was hidden behind these walls and I got a great surprise. Escape Hotel belongs to Sansiri developments and as always the result is beautiful.
The treatment:
Blue Wave Massage This signature Escape Spa massage is designed to reduce the body stress and tension while simultaneously using unique massage techniques to remove harmful toxins from the body system. My therapist K. Khem first did a food scrub with butter milk, cumin and salt to remove the dead skin. The movements and the pressure on this treatment are like a moving wave. K.Khem used orange oil for the treatment which was very refreshing. With her professionalism she set the standards very high and the way she is doing the treatment makes you forget where you are and let your mind go to the
oceanside. The oceanic healing properties are also brought into a pure relaxation that I thought I was almost hearing waves on the beach. Escape Spa is an escape you deserve! Rate: 1,600 Special offer: 25% Discount Contact details: 032519061-6
MUSCLE DEGENERATION TESTING CPK (Creatine Phosphokinase) or muscles enzymes can be found in our bloodstream when our body has muscle disintegration.
The normal range of CPK is between 15 - 220 units/litre. If the CPK range is higher, it means that our body is using the compounds resulting from the process of muscle disintegration.
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
A CPK range 5 times higher than normal may be considered a sign of Multiple Sclerosis and result in Myolysis as a symptom. This can occur to muscles in every part of our body, including the heart muscle. It may affect the kidney and lead to kidney failure. Untreated muscle disintegration can be life threatening. It recommended that symptoms of Cataplexy/Myasthenia Gravis with heart disease, (other than a person who is taking Hypolipidemic agents) should result in a CPK test. It is recommended that a person taking Hypolipidemic agents should have a CPK test every 3 to 6 months. Doctors may also suggest that patients have a CPK test. When our body goes through excessive
muscle disintegration, systems which excrete waste will have to work harder, especially our liver and kidney. Therefore, it is recommended that these patients check their liver and kidney (especially the kidney) frequently. Protein elimination process causes the kidney to work hard and may be lead to kidney failure. We often detect the kidney problem first because it is usual to run a kidney test, but it is rare incident for people to have a CPK test. Medical examinations should be made on a regular basis to detect any problems. I hope that this information can be beneficial to patients with symptoms of Cataplexy/ Myasthenia and heart disease. Of course
it is always better to keep healthy and disease-free. This article was submitted by Healthlab Medical Laboratory. Readers who have a query may contact the “Healthlab Medical Laboratory” located close to Petchakisim Road, between soi 45 and 45/1.
Classifieds 41 Condos and Land for Sale by Owner
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
Great Car Deal
Nissan sunny 14 years, power windows, central locking, good tires, good painwork.
Only 110,000 THB
080 0522 840 swed, engl. 081 1939 520 Thai
Palm Pavilion (very good deal, opp. Makro on the beach) 2 brs/2 bths / 2 balconies 120 sq.m. 3rd Floor Lake View
One of the best Condos
For price and nego please contact
main beach) 2 beds/2 baths, 120 sq.m, 2nd floor, complete with solid furniture, A/C in all rooms.
Land on Palm Hills Golf Course 1.5 Rai - 2.400 sq.m. Located in Palm Village on main lake with great scenery
M: 081-829-5478, 086-003-6920 E: claus@lct-asia.com
Baan Chai Talay (next to Hyatt on Hua Hin
For long term rent or sale Email: bau.info@gmx.at
Best Buys
LAND
HOMES RENTALS H Land for sale 1.5 rai 2.9 m. H Mountain view lots near Banyan Golf H 2 Story Villa, 2 beds/ 2 baths with beautiful mountain view, 2.9 m for Sale or 15,000 for Rent per month Many properties Available Thai 087 882 4453 Eng 089 911 6536 Email: sumvee@gmail.com
Monthly apartments from
8,000 THB, Villas up to 90,000 THB
Look at www.coyshus.distudio.se 080 0522 840 swed,engl. 081 1939 520 Thai
45m2, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, fully furnished, 8th floor
CHA-AM BEACH AREA Town house For Sale
Contact: 0819812997 or 0909213547 Email: debbelt2011@gmail.com
The Learning Centre Fully accredited by the Ministry of Education
Education Visa for Eligible Applicants
Sirada The Learning Centre
Ground Floor 83/14 Wongchomsin Bldg. Phetkasem Road Hua Hin (between Soi 63/1 and Soi 65)
Phone: 032 532 650 083 801 1335
www.learningcentre.co.th Email: info@learningcentre co.th
(Note: not from agent or agency) Needed: 1 or 2 bedroom 60-80sq apartment Optional: For Rent of condo lease starting from 3 years up. Please send me photo & price on my email kemod@gmx.de
Sale or rentals to be paid in euro (cash)
10,000 THB per month Available from 1st of April
at Sirada
I would like to buy or rent a Private Condo on the beach
Villas & Apartments for Rent
Condo for Rent
Learn Thai or English
Unique Open Plan Design * Modernised * Balconies w/- Scenic Views
Offers Around 3,000,000 THB Email for more details and photographs davidwa@yahoo.com.au
Looking to Sell or Rent out your Condo or Villa?
Regal Thailand Real Estate wants your Property! We have many inquiries and we need more listings. With offices in the Hilton Street and opposite Cicada
Contact us on : sai@regalthailand.com or call : 090 990 7898
Looking for Garage
I am looking to rent a garage place for one car in Hua Hin. Period Mid March-Mid November 2014
Email: alferd@klaar.at
VINTAGE STYLE CONDO
• Fully serviced 1bed/1bath poolside apt in The Breeze Khao Takieb. • Recently decorated with brand new vintage style furniture. • Showroom condition.
29,500
THB /month. Special rates for long term stay.
Sale: 4.2 million including furniture. Phone: 0897711683 (Eng/Thai) email: breezemail2@gmail.com
HUA HIN TODAY, April 2014
42
43
44