Newspaper Hua Hin Today January 2014 by Hua Hin Today

January 2014

TOURISM BODY SIGNS ZONING AGREEMENT WITH PHETCHABURI & PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN PROVINCES

he Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan Provinces on tourism zoning. Under a sustainable-tourism plan, four zones are to be established: highend beach, family beach, agricultural tourism, and eco-tourism. One of the objectives is to promote Hua Hin, Cha-Am and Pak Nam Pran as high-end beach destinations to attract foreign tourists. Hotels will be asked to join the scheme by upgrading their facilities. This area has a competitive advantage over other places, offering various tourist attractions including mountains, beaches, palaces, and royal projects. The tourism position is far different Continued on Page...3

AN URGENT AGENDA FOR TRAFFIC PROBLEMS IN HUA HIN

he Prachuab Khirikhan Governor, Mr. Weera Sriwattanatrakul, the Mayor of Hua Hin Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul and representatives of organisations with an interest recently attended a meeting about how to actively and effectively solve traffic problems in Hua Hin. Participants at the meeting agreed with a measure for one-way routing on main roads in Hua Hin. The organisations concerned will now propose an operational plan. The Governor would also like to carry

Exquisite Cocktails

Top-rate on T.A.

Friday Wine Buffets! Opposite Burger King

out a public hearing before implementing this plan with a public relations campaign so that local people and visitors are aware of the changes. Public Officers will also be required to help drivers in need. The one-way routing measure in Hua Hin will cover Sra Song Road (from a junction at Damnern Kasem Road close to the Division of Waterworks northwards to a junction at Chom Sin Road opposite Sawang Hua Hin Thamma Sathan Foundation), Chom Sin Road (from a

junction at Sra Song Road eastwards to an intersection at Phetkasem Road), Decha Nuchit Road (from a junction at the road paralleling the railway eastwards to Phetkasem Road), and Amnuay Silp Road (from a junction at the road paralleling the railway to an intersection at Sra Song Road). In addition a budget allocation will be sought for a roundabout at Phra Chan Bend to effectively manage traffic flow and a new road will be built to connect the Bend with Soi Hua Hin 68 (Soi Rong Lek). The progess of each project will be presented in details at the next meeting, concluded the Prachuab Khirikhan Governor.

January 2014

Dear Readers, As the New Year unfolds, I hope it brings new joys, beautiful moments and surprises for you to cherish forever! While I was writing down ideas of my 2014 resolution and how it will be the best year ever, the more I like the idea of making small improvements that would add up a big boost in everyone’s overall happiness. My first resolution is for volunteer activities and support for all these organisations that we have here in Hua Hin to make other people’s lives nicer and happier. We will try to have more articles about how and where Hua Hin people can volunteer for a better life quality for everyone. In 2014, the Hua Hin Today team, one year older and wiser, is here again to lend you a big, helping hand. This year it is vitally important to pull together. That’s why we are focusing on your businesses more than ever, with consumer news and product showcases for every section of the Hua Hin market and providing you with more options to advertise and market the products and services you provide. Together with our reconstructed website and the help of ThaiVisa there is no better way to get the good news out about you and your business than in Hua Hin Today. Every issue of our beautiful publication is anticipated by our thousands of readers, who make us by far the best read newspaper in Hua Hin. In every issue of Hua Hin and Cha-Am Today you will see our new entertainment section Food and Wine Lovers with new columns on great food, restaurants and bars. Our Property section features all the breathtaking Hua Hin properties with plenty of information for developers and buyers. In addition our Golf pages are getting better and better with more ideas to improve that section coming soon. Best Regards, Eleni editor@huahintoday.com

Continued from Page 1...from those of busy Pattaya and Phuket, which have focused more on entertainment and nightlife. The signing ceremony was held in December 2013 in Cha-Am. Prachuap Khiri Khan Governor Weera Sriwathanatrakoon and Phetchaburi Governor Monthian Thongnit attended the event, along with Dr Nalikatibhag Sangsnit, DASTA’s Director-General. The three vowed to work more closely, especially with local communities, to promote the area’s simplicity and sustainability of its tourist allure. Dr Nalikatibhag said the area’s development would be completed via a 10-year strategic plan. Improvements in infrastructure and city landscapes would a focus. DASTA is looking for a place in Chaam to set up an office to work with local communities more closely and push ahead future projects. Tourism in Hua Hin and Cha-am has grown quickly but could develop without clear direction. The two areas have encountered problems such as garbage, environmental damage, shortages of parking, and congestion in some tourism areas. Details of the strategic plan will be clearer in the new year. A tourism

slogan will be chosen that will differentiate the area from other destinations. Local people are proud of hosting the King’s summer palace and 70 Royal Projects, claimed to be the highest number in Thailand. This will be cited in the promotional slogan. According to DASTA, about 2.46 million tourists visited Hua Hin last year and about 2.1 million went to Cha-am. Hua Hin was the country’s 11thlargest contributor of tourism revenue last year, and Cha-am No 12, with about Bt9.21 billion (1.14 per cent of the total) and Bt8.85 billion (1.09 per cent) respectively. Nartnadda Nitibhon, Secretary of the Phetchaburi Tourism Association, welcomed DASTA’s move and said it would boost tourism in both Hua Hin and Cha-Am. She hoped it would help attract tourists who like a simple lifestyle and also increase tourism revenue in the two areas. Currently 70 per cent of tourists in the area are Thais. The average Thai tourist stays one night with a total spending of Bt2,000. The average foreigner spends four nights, spending per head per day Bt3,000. There are about 16,000 rooms in total in the region.

n 19 December RICD Wheelchair project arranged a very special visitor to surprise to two very young patients of RICD Wheelchair project at Hua Hin Hospital.

Santa Claus and lovely Khun Lizzy, a long time benefactor and champion of RICD Wheelchair showed up to bring gifts and cheer to this two youngsters. There was much cheering and excitement when presents were given but the most touching was when little SomO (5 years old), a full time resident of Hua Hin Hospital got to hear and dance to the singing of Jingle bells. To see the video go to the Hua Hin Today Facebook page and look up RCD Wheelchair Project. This Project helps children and adults with disability all over of Thailand, including Petchaburi and Prachuap Khirikhan - (www.wheelchairproject.com )

HUA HIN INFRASTRUCTURE REFORM

Waterworks and public transport needs more investment and modification

ue to continuous urban expansion, the 87 sq. km. Municipality of Hua Hin is seeing new development, especially the construction of new buildings mushrooming on a daily basis. Real estate and property investment from public companies and land developers in Bangkok prefer Hua Hin as an ideal place for condominiums so much that some new construction projects are now taking place in the foothills in the western part of the city. Hua Hin needs city reorganisation urgently. Highly concerned with this problem, the Department of Public Works and Town and City Planning will formulate a new Hua Hin City Plan this year after the former plan expired almost 10 years ago. This new City Plan will expand the Municipality of Hua Hin to cover the 97 sq. km. area of Hin Lek Fire SubDistrict. To deal with the current increasing urban expansion, the DPWTCP will also set up additional infrastructure to effectively and extensively facilitate the need of people in Hua Hin.

Hua Hin is facing infrastructure and public transport requirements as its modernisation and development is growing fast. During summer, face water shortages or so bad water quality will require investors to pay for their own waterworks. “Hua Hin needs remodeling and reorganisation as it is growing without practical direction. It has water shortage, wastewater and traffic jams. The new City Plan will address these issues so that Hua Hin will remain charming and attractive to visitors worldwide,” said the Director of DPWTCP Mr.

Monthon Sudprasert. 900 Million Baht to Tackle Water Shortage The Mayor of Hua Hin Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul has accepted that traffic jams and water shortage have become major problems of the city for several years and were tending to become more critical without practical solutions. The city is considering many big public projects, namely double-track railway trains and high-speed trains which will make the train station a main stopover for passengers traveling to the south of Thailand. The Hua Hin Municipality should prepare better infrastructure to facilitate fast urban growth in the future. Recently, the Municipality has proposed a 988.65 million Baht budget from the government to lay water pipes of 20 kilometres from Pran Buri Dam to a reservoir. The proposal was made twice in the national fiscal years of 2012 and 2013, but it was not approved. If the budget is approved, Mr. Nopporn says the project will take 3 years from 2014 to 2016. Its main activities are: 1. construction of a water piping plant in Khao Laeng and Hua Na for up to 173.23 million Baht; 2. laying water pipes from Pran Buri Dam to Hua Na Waterworks Plant and to a treatment plasnt in Khao Laeng, from Hua Na Waterworks Plant to a reservoir in Damnern Kasem and Boh Fai’s and Bo Fai’s clarifier treatment plants to the water pipes used currently. This will cost 734.66 million Baht; and 3. construction of a waterworks plant that can produce water at a capacity of 250 cubic metres per hour in Boh Fai and a 100,000 cubic metre reservoir for up to 80.76 million Baht. Water Business Booming Water shortages in Hua Hin are now becoming a commercial opportunity for local business owners as they introduce drinking water industries. “Currently, those industries are being built outside the municipal area next to the Provincial Waterworks Authority of Hua Hin. Construction for

each costs around 400 to 500 million Baht. Once completed, the industries can produce 700-800 cubic metres of drinking water hourly each day. The owners are asking for permission from the PWA to sell drinking water to Hua Hin Municipality for the cost of 6 to 8 Baht per cubic metre. Currently the Hua Hin Municipality sells drinking water for the cost of 3.50 Baht per cubic metre, so the price proposed by the industries is a bit higher,” said the Mayor of Hua Hin. Monorail Trains to Solve Traffic Jam To resolve traffic problems in Hua Hin, the Hua Hin Municipality would initiate a 7-8 kilometre monorail train line on Phetchakasem Road from the centre of the city of Khao Takiab, said Mr. Nopporn. Initially the line will end at the Cicada Market. “I’ll soon propose this project to the Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning and ask them to study how possible it will be. The construction and design will depend on results of the project’s study,” added Mr. Nopporn. The Mayor of Hua Hin also commented that he was thinking about building a new 4 to 6 lane road for those who want to avoid traffic in the centre of Hua Hin. With a total distance of 15 to 16 kilometres, the road will be in between Hua Hin railways and Phetchakasem Road (Highway No. 4), starting from the Boh Fai Airport to Soi Hua Hin 112. “The DPWTCP has approved both projects, so we have to launch them immediately as Hua Hin has serious traffic jam during weekends. We’re now digging a tunnel along Phetchakasem Road to facilitate more traffic. In the future, we’ll build a new parking lot and charge all cars parked on the roadside,” said Mr. Nopporn. Building and Fixing Highways is a Must The Director of the Prachuab Khirikhan Provincial Expressway (Hua Hin) said that the Department of Highways were fixing highways in and around Hua Hin, starting an extension of Phetchakasem Road and renovating the 1-kilometre landscape of the Hua Na-Pran Buri route. This will cost over 30 million Baht.

“The current Phetchakasem Road will be expended to become a 4-6 lane road so that cars pass in both directions. The road will facilitate increasing traffic in Khao Takiab, Hua Na and Thab Tai,” said the Director. In 2014, the Department of Highways will receive a budget to coat the surface of Phetchakasem Road from the tunnel to Nong Kae Sub-District as well as in Soi Hua Hin 102. Safety systems and electricity on highways in the city will be checked and improved. These are a few projects under the new budget of twomillion Baht. Nakhon Pathom-Cha-Am Motorway Mr. Surachai Srilenawat, the Director of the Bureau of Planning, the Department of Highways, said that the 250 kilometre road from Bangkok to Hua Hin will be known as the Phra Ram II and Phetchakasem Routes. Both of them have a capacity of up to 140,000 cars daily. As a result, traffic congestion in Hua Hin is inevitable. The Department of Highways, realising how serious the problem is, will launch a project to renovate both the Phra Ram II and Phetchakasem routes with a budget of over 6 billion Baht. Over a billion Baht will be used for the 75 kilometre road from Bangkok to Samut Songkhram and another 5 billion Baht for the Phetchakasem Road, 290 kilometers from Nakhon Pathom to Hua Hin. The Department of Highways has already considered an extra highway to facilitate more traffic on Phetchakasem Road to the south of Thailand. This covers a 35 kilometre distance between the connecting road at the Wang Manao junction and highway No. 3510 (Nong Ya Plong). The project is now being considered and, if approved, it will be completed next year. The Department of Highways has also received a 50 million Baht budget to study and design a project to construct a 120 kilometre motorway from Nakhon Pathom to Cha-Am, another 105 million Baht to study a 50 kilometre elevated road on Phra Ram II Road. All the projects will facilitate more convenient travel to Hua Hin and the south of Thailand.

CENTARA WORLD MASTERS GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP 2014

Destined to Become Asia’s Largest Amateur Event for Club Golfers at 4 Hua Hin Golf Courses

he Centara World Masters Golf Championship – from 15th to 21st June, 2014 – is expected to attract 600 amateur golfers from around the world. The event will be played at four courses in Hua Hin – Black Mountain, Banyan, Majestic Creek and Imperial Lake View. Prizes valued at more than $US70,000 will be on offer for participants who will play in 15 different age and handicap divisions. The event is open to all club golfers (men and women) over 35 years of age with a verified handicap. It features 72-holes of Stableford competition, lots of gifts and prizes, plus nightly parties and entertainment. The Event is based on the highly successful Mitsubishi Masters tournament that has been held on the Gold Coast, Australia, for the past 18 years. The Centara World Masters Golf Championship will quickly build a reputation as Asia’s best week of golf for club golfers. Golfers from around the world will be drawn to Thailand’s royal retreat for a great value week of golf, fun and entertainment. Organiser, Peter McCarthy, the principal of Go

Golfing in Australia, says the entry of TaylorMadeAdidas Golf as a major sponsor is a great endorsement for the tournament. “TaylorMade and Adidas are brands synonymous with excellence in sporting equipment and apparel and so we are delighted to welcome the company as a sponsor,” he said. “We now have leading brands in their respective fields involved in the event – Centara Hotels and Resorts, the leading hotel brand in Thailand; Thai Beverage, the brewer of Chang beer; Thai Airways, the kingdom’s respected national carrier; and Coca-Cola, the world’s leading soft drink producer. “In addition, the Centara World Masters is backed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand and we have signed D’ablo Sportswear, a local Thai apparel producer, to supply official tournament shirts for participants and staff.” Accommodation for the Centara World Masters will be at the Centara Grand Beach Resort and Banyan Resort, Hua Hin.

Lively social and entertainment events are scheduled for each night of the tournament, headlined by international acts at the welcome and farewell celebrations. The Centara World Masters is being organised in collaboration with Asia’s leading dedicated inbound golf tourism operator, Golfasian. Khun Nopporn Vuttikul, Lord Mayor of Hua Hin added his welcome to the Event. “Hua Hin City is proud to support this event through my office, recognising the importance of golf tourism and welcoming golfers specifically to Hua Hin and generally to all of Thailand’s excellent resorts. Events like this are not only a great source of community pride; they also bring social and economic benefits to the host community. Golf tourism is one of the largest contributors to Hua Hin’s economy and supporting events like the Centara World Masters will help us achieve our goal to be recognized as Asia’s best golf destination.

I would like to thank the participants, local community, sponsors and event organizers for their terrific efforts in bringing a great golf event to Hua Hin and the Kingdom of Thailand.”

For more information, visit www.ThailandWorldMasters.com

City News

CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT & VILLAS HUA HIN – WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR FOOD & BEVERAGE

V Villas Hua Hin has been named Asia’s Top 5 Villa Hotels NOW Travel Asia Awards 2013

HUA HIN HIN ON THE RISE

ua Hin is now among the top 10 popular destinations in Asia, H according to TripAdvisor’s 2013 Travellers’ Choice™ Awards that focuses on “destinations on the rise”.

an Weisheit is a German National, who has been appointed as the J new Director of Food & Beverage at the Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin. Jan graduated with an apprenticeship

for Food & Beverage from the Schlosshotel Reinhardsbrunn, Friedrichroda, Germany with expertise in teaching and training. His career includes hotels such as the Marriott Hanbury Manor Hotel & Country Club, Ware England, Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Villas Hua Hin VIE has announced that it has won a award in Travel Indian Wells, California, Sofitel Hotel “Bayerpost”, Munich Germany , Asia Awards 2013’ in the category of ‘Asia’s Top 5 Villa Hotels’ where he was part of the opening team. by influential Now Travel Asia Magazine. This is in recognition of the hotel’s exceptional design, as voted by the discerning readers of His journey to Asia brought him from the Renaissance Zurich Now Travel Asia Magazine; Asia’s Premier Travel Magazine Devoted Hotel in Switzerland to Thailand. Prior to joining the team in Hua to exclusive Luxury Travels throughout Asia. Hin, Jan worked at the Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi for over two years. Jan Weisheit is now looking forward to meeting and NOW Travel Asia is a bimonthly magazine published (6 times a year) greeting Hua Hin Residents. aimed at promoting Asian luxury travels and lifestyles.

BHH Donates First Aid Kits

January 2014

“NOW Travel Asia Magazine intends to be a luxury magazine in Asia, allowing our readers to see all the specialties of the region. To do so, we start our long journey from Thailand, the major hub of the World’s tourism industry and outstanding lifestyle and design.” said by Kanapot Sitthiwong, Editor-in-Chief and Publisher.

Released in December, the latest TripAdvisor awards indicate Hua Hin was ranked fifth following Kathmandu in Nepal; Sapporo in Japan; Hanoi in Vietnam; and Siem Reap in Cambodia. The website said: “A favorite getaway for Bangkok residents, Hua Hin is a pretty beachside town. Family friendly and relaxed, it lacks the all-night partying and seedier aspects that make other nearby beach resorts a haven for unsavory characters.” The remaining five destinations on the list were: Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia; Sanur in Indonesia; Macau in China; Jaipur in India; and Busan in South Korea.

Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas Hua Hin Celebrates Candle-Light Ceremony on his Majesty the King’s 86th Birthday

Putahracsa Donate blood

he Manager of Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin, Ms. Sasipen Piyawisut, T on behalf of the hospital’s Director, donated first aid kits to Pol. Lt. Col. Sathaporn Sa-nguansuk, who represented the 7th Tourist Police Office of Hua Hin.

The tourist police will use the donated first aid kits to help Thai and foreign tourists who have minor injury on Hua Hin beaches.

utahracsa’s Team Members and Khun Manuel Lang, Hotel Manager, in cooperation with Hua Hin Hospital, donated blood, to For more information, please contact the P.R. Officer of BHH Mr. Chedtapon ‘Khaek’ Maneechai at tel. 032 616 800 ext. 1007 or 081 give a royal charity upon His Majesty the King’s birthday on Thursday November 28th, 2013. 649 4659 (mobile) or e-mail: Chedtapon.Ma@bgh.co.th.

National Thai Chidren’s Day 2014

The Hua Hin Mayor Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul commented that National Thai Children’s Day normally falls on the second Saturday of January.

People that know that snow boarding or wakeboarding is easier but you do not have to be ultra fit and to learn kite boarding. I managed to sit down and talk to one of the Forshlager brothers Raveh who answered some of my basic questions about kite boarding.

This annual event aims to raise awareness among Thai people of the What are the requirements to able to be importance of Thai children and youth as the country’s future. able to learn kite boarding? For example The first National Thai Children’s Day was held on the first Monday are there any age restrictions? of October 1955, following a recommendation of the representative Currently we have a 70 year plus gentleman to the United Nations Social Welfare Fellow Mr. V M Kulkarni whose contribution to children’s welfare in India is internationally recognised. The National Children’s Day of Thailand took place on the first Monday of October from 1955 to 1963. In 1965, the date was changed to the first Saturday of January as it is a holiday and it unlikely to rain in the month. With a major aim of promoting international child rights and Thai children’s social responsibility and self-discipline, the festival of National Thai Children’s Day throughout the country offers young participants activities that boost their knowledge and entertain them at the same time. The Hua Hin event includes stage performances by Hua Hin students and quizzes and free foods and drinks. As an organiser of the event, the Hua Hin Municipality would like to invite parents and children to join the festival.

For more information, please contact the Education Division of the Hua Hin Municipality at tel. 032 532 433 ext. 402-3.

Resort and Villas Hua Hin. The management and staff sang “San Sern Pra Baramee” and “Sadudee Maharacha” songs to show their loyalty. The guests joined the candle lighting ceremony to celebrate his Majesty the King’s 86th birthday on December 5th recently.

Learn to Kite with KBAkiteboarding.com

pproximately 13 years ago the Forshlager Brothers opened their first KBA Kite boarding outlet now they 15 shops spread over Thailand & Vietnam. Their shops sell & rent kite boarding equipment plus teach kite boarding lessons to any age group. They decided to open their first shop in Hua Hin as it has favourable winds & weather for seriously good kite boarding. The winds are good for beginners as well as for advanced kite boarders. The weather is so favourable for kite boarding that in 2010 and 2011 The kite boarding World Cup was held in Hua Hi, in the future there is a plan to hold it here again but the brothers are so busy running their businesses that will have to be some time in the future. he festival to celebrate National Thai Children’s Day 2014 will take T place on 11th January 2014 at Queen Sirikit’s Memorial Park in Hua Hin from 6 p.m.

acques Mury (left), General Manager and Miguel Yaun (right), J Executive Assistant Manager of Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villa Hua Hin lead the candle-light ceremony at Centara Grand Beach

that is kite boarding with us. People seem to think that you have to be ultra fit to kite board. This is not necessary as most of the weight of the kite is taken by the kite boarding harness and your arms are only there to steer and control the kite surfing kite, not to hang on.

How long does it take to learn to kite board? It takes for most people 3 days to learn to kite board for some a few extra days might be required if they do not feel comfortable to go it on their own. The 3 days course is never more than 2 students per trainer but here in Hua Hin we mostly do one-on -one training. The training consists of theory, safety, how to use the equipment and practice controlling the kite in the water without the board. Also students are taught how to control kite with one hand so you can put on your board in the water , then board practice and when the student is ready they learn how to water start and then they know all they need to kite board. If students still need more time to learn that is easy to arrange.

as getting the kite back up etc. Plus all our students are insured. We have not had any accidents so far and we plan to keep it that way with vigilance and training. When is the best time to kite board? The best months by far are Feb & March as the winds are consistent but you can kite board any time of the year but you have to keep your eyes on the weather report to catch the most favorable winds if you are a serious kite boarder.

Is kite boarding a sport and how does it How serious are you about safety? benefit you health? We have jet skis and boats that can collect kite boarders but we make sure that all our Kite boarding strengthens your core muscles students are trained in self rescue such and one of our riders is an Osteopath and he has said he believes kite boarding is one of the greatest ways to gain core strength which improve your balance and stability. How much does it cost to take the 3 day course? The 3 day course costs 11,000 which include 6 hours training on one on one basis including insurance. After doing the course most people can kite board by themselves. After finishing course the students receive an IKO certificate. On top of this there are refresher courses and We even have instructor courses in Pranburi. If you want to learn this highly addictive sport pleases call: 081 591 4593 and check out this website: http://www.kiteboardingasia.com

January 2014

New Year’s Resolutions 2014 N

ew Year’s resolutions are a great way to swimming, or taking a cardio class at your gym are start a brand new year. Many people are all excellent options. all coming with new resolutions like weight loss, finding love, spending more time with family 6. Want to lose your belly bloat? Sit-ups aren’t gonna do it for you, trust me!!! etc. One of the first thing you can do for a flat stomach is to kick the salt out of your diet. And not just in the salt-shaker, but hidden in sauces, coldcuts, packaged foods, restaurant dishes, almost everywhere! Consider salt an enemy which is secretly trying to make you fat. So stay away from it!! 7. Introducing your three best friends in the detox. We all know that very few of these resolutions are followed beyond the first few days or weeks.

*Lemon is basically a detox present wrapped in a yellow peel. Antibacterial, antiviral, antiinflammatory and immune-boosting, lemon naturally detoxifies the body, stimulating digestion and cleansing the liver. Bet you didn’t know it also helps abandon acne, abolish anxiety and fight fatigue. So Squeeze, squeeze it please!

of us aren’t hungry in the morning for a reason, we shouldn’t force food into our bodies when we do not want it. Some of us, need an hour when we wake up to allow our bodies to slowly wake up before putting food into it. Unfortunately, work makes it difficult for people to snack during the day, but if you can, bring breakfast to work so you can eat it when you feel ready, not just stuff yourself for no reason.

REMEMBER 3 The facts you most need to know, the result of a flat belly, 80% is in what you eat... And only 20% of exercises. No miracle you have to stop carbs and junk food!

I like to combine both lemon and ginger in boiling water. It is the perfect drink to follow you during the day... Too bitter, add one spoon of Honey! It is yummy!

Ideas and facts you need to know to get results *Cucumber, a favourite of all beauty experts around fast: the world. This green veggie is a fabulous diurectic, 1. Start your day with a cup of hot lemon water or which removes bloat and puffiness from your belly, the same way it relieves inflammation when green tea. places on your eyelids. It aids in weight loss by 2. If you’re trying to lose weight, burning calories encouraging the elimination of waste in your body through exercise is key. But if you’re not burning and is favoured as the perfect weight-loss snack enough, keep reading to learn what you might be due to its low caloric count and high water content. doing wrong when it comes to burning calories. Other ways to incorporate these detoxing foods 3. Many women skip out on breakfast before into your diet: their morning workout to either save calories or to prevent digestive upset. It’s one of the worst Flavour your food with lemon instead of sauces. things you can do because eating first thing not Squeeze lemon onto salads, into your drink, in your only boosts your metabolism, it also gives you green tea, on your fish or turkey- the possibilities energy to get through your solid calorie-burning are endless! workout. Without the proper fuel, you’ll end up with Munch on ginger on the side. Sushi always comes a headache, dizzy spell, Not only are you losing with a side of pickled ginger, which is great to have muscle by exercising hungry, but since you have along with your Japanese food. Ginger can also no fuel to work out, you won’t have the energy to be used to flavor chicken, eggplant, in dressings exercise as long or as intensely as you would if you or wraps. had eaten. Snack on cucumber. Cucumber reduces water Since devouring an enormous plate of scrambled retention, which makes it the perfect snack to eggs, bacon, pancakes, and hash browns is also have before a night-out in your tight dress. Sip a bad idea, my favorite pre-workout snack is a on cucumber-infused water while munching on banana sliced with 2-3 tablespoons of Oat meal sliced cucumber with lemon to get a flat belly, fast. in a yogurt , or mixed it into a blender to get a Try bulking up your salads and sandwiches with smoothie . It can be made with others fruits if you cucumber slices, which will fill you up with minimal like. Try to not workout until 15 to 30 mins after you calories because it’s high water content, plus it have eaten. increases the amount of time it takes you to finish since it’s so crunchy- not to mention, it doesn’t It can also be: - Half a slice of whole wheat bread with one matter how much you eat! - - - -

This detox super-drink combines these three toxinkilling superfoods into one refreshing summery cocktail (minus the alcohol) that is light and refreshing, with a kick. Green Detox Pressed Juice 1/2 bunch spinach or kale 1 cucumber 1/2 lemon, peeled 1 celery stalk 2 apples 1-inch slice of ginger All squeezed in a juicer. The detox super drink: 2 lemons, juiced 2 tablespoon ginger, grated 1 cucumber, small, sliced. In a blender, combine sliced cucumber, grated ginger and juice of two lemons.

Blend until smooth and pour into glass, topped with sparkling water. You can also blend with ice tablespoon crunchy peanut butter. 8. Additionally, for the next week consume a for a smoothie. An ounce of cheese with some crackers. vegetable-protein based diet for your lunches and Two tablespoons cottage cheese mixed with dinners. Veggies can be steamed, in soup or stir You can even add in with this purifying juice: a quarter cup of sliced grapes. fried. (just not too much of oil), Proteins meats and parsley, pineapple, grapefruit and kiwi... Handful of pretzels dipped in hummus. fishs will be grilled, baked in oven or steam.. Just a Finally, a drink where the more you sip, the cleaner Half an avocado spread on toast or crackers. bit of olive oil and squeeze a lemon... you’ll feel. (And after an heavy night you won’t any

It all depends if you prefer savory or sweet taste in 9.Though fruits are essential to our health because the morning. of the high amount of vitamins and minerals they Don’t forget to eat a little something once your contain, to really get that sugar craving out of your workout is complete. Your body needs a combo system try to avoid fruits for the week so you stop of protein and carbs to build and repair muscle craving fructose. Some fruits, such as berries, and quickly recharge lost energy. Don’t go crazy watermelon and papaya, have less sugar content just a little something which will keep you full than others like bananas and mangoes.

hangover with this one!)

You now have all the keys to start your one week detox to reboot your system and start clean, from inside out. This detox is your chance to repent yourself for your sins of chocolate and cheeseburgers and all sorts of junk food!

As much as we love good food, we know our All can be incorporated into a healthy diet, but for bodies need a break from time to time to repair the detox week, try to stay completely sugar free. themselves from the over-indulging with the power of food. It benefits us all to take one week to REMEMBER 1 transform our bodies and minds by reforming our Practice mindful eating. Simply taking the time to lifestyle addictions to sugar, salt, alcohol, junk food, sit down and savor your food may be the key to nicotine, high glycemic carbs, stress and anger. your weight loss. Do not multitask while eating, sit in front of the TV or even on our laptops (we all do I would go even further by telling you to have it!) When we lose focus and no longer pay attention once a week a day with Just Juicing. Just pick to what we are, we become out of touch with the day which suits you and stick with it. We have our bodies. This makes us over-eat and feel less no excuses, we live in a country with a thousand 4. Not exercising often enough is one reason satisfied from our meal. Please readMindful Eating- variety of fruits and veggies!!! you’re not seeing the slimming results you’re after. How Thinking About Your Food Will Change Your Don’t loose anymore time and go to the supermarket To make that scale budge, kick it up a notch and Life to take the first step towards mindful eating! and fresh market to stock up with healthy stuff!!! exercise three to five days a week. REMEMBER 2 Have a look in your cupboard and clean up any 5. Taking a brisk walk is a great way to lift your mood During those days where you won’t start your day sugary and bad food, to avoid the temptation and improve your circulation, but unfortunately, it’s with a workout but will keep it for lunch time or during the detox week. not a huge calorie burner. If weight loss is your goal, evenings. I advise to listen to your body- even if you must exercise for at least an hour a day, and it means holding off breakfast! Many nutritionists Good luck and see you next month, slimmer and it must be the heart-pumping kind that burns tons may shoot me for saying this, but I believe some sexier than ever, just on time for Valentine’s day. of calories. Jogging, hiking, biking, jumping rope, until lunch. Here are some ideas for post-workout snacks, all under 150 calories: - Lowfat cottage cheese mixed with half a cup of diced fresh pineapple, or kiwi, grapes. - One small apple with one tablespoon peanut butter. - Baby carrots with two tablespoons of hummus. - 1 container of Peach with Greek yogurt. - One small banana with raw almonds. - Trail mix made with peanuts and a mini box of raisins.

Everyone is making plans for a fresh start for this year, and if one of your goals is to save money, making a few changes here and there can save a little or a lot of money. Remember little things, do add up! Read this list below on suggestions for saving money and pick a few for a prosperous year in 2014.

But not only in the morning try to listen your body And more than saving money, you will be a small all along the day and learn to make the difference contributor to make our planet better. between “I’m Hungry” and “I need to fill myself”. Here is our top 55 tips:

So this year, let’s be different and spend this first month by building the foundation of what will follow -DETOX DRINKyou all along the year. We have prepared some tips, to insert into your everyday life, new habbits, nothing much but at the end you will make a big *Ginger is also a superfood for its ability to stimulate change in your life. We are all the same, we are all circulation (no more cold hands and feet!), aid digestion and cleanse the body of toxins. Sipping full of motivations but at the end it never last.... ginger tea is a great way to relieve your belly after So the key for anything you are starting is overeating, plus ginger’s spicy kick curbs cravings consistency!!!! for other sweet additives. Detox Plan Follow our detox plan, exercises ideas, and do your best to make it a way of life and not just for the first few weeks.

Tips to save money This year!

1. Bring lunch to work 2. Reassess your savings accounts 3. Cook more and eat out less often 4. Make a list before grocery shopping (we always end up buying more than we have to) 5. Grocery shop at lower-priced shops such as Makro, and if you have space in the house to stock up! Even better! 6. Buy generic products like batteries, anything for the house... 7. Don’t go to the grocery store when hungry 8. Entertain at home 9. Explore free activities on the weekend 10. Wait on purchases before buying them. Take time to study if it is cheaper somewhere else. 11. Buy generic medicine 12. Skype instead of making long distance calls 13. Turn roaming off and rely on WiFi when traveling or simply in the house, use less 3G as you can. 14. Reassess your Internet and cable provider and see if you can find a cheaper plan 15. Turn off lights that aren’t in use 16. Turn off the air con when you are not in the room 17. Unplug electronics when not in use. If you didn’t know, they are using energy even switched off. 18. Use cold water to wash your clothes 19. Hang-dry your clothing instead of tumbling them in the dryer. You might prefer smooth towels but did you know that having them a bit “scratchy” make a natural scrub for dead skin on your body. 20. Handwash your clothing instead of taking it to the dry cleaner’s when possible 21. Consider investing in a filter and start to drink tap water instead of bottled water. Plastic bottles are not good for your health, because they all contain particles of plastics that we end-up drinking. More than anything avoid the bottles stocked up outside of Seven Eleven and Family Mart, the heat brings out even more particles of plastics in those bottles. 22. Cancel cable and watch your favourite shows online. Everything can be found online now. 23. Workout outdoors, play sports, or go to a friend’s gym instead of paying for a gym membership, or YouTube has millions of videos to follow. 24. Shop at fresh markets 25. Swap clothes, bags, and accessories with friends 26. Renegotiate your cell phone plan, find a new carrier, or cancel some features to save money 27. Use a prepaid phone instead of signing up for a phone plan 28. Make your own coffee at home 29. Do not hesitate to return the purchases you need to return 30. Sell your old things 31. Buy second hands, with research and patience, you might actually find the best deal. 32. Automate payments so you won’t forget and be charged with late fees 33. Recycle your old items instead of throwing them away 34. Book trips early 35. Stock up on holiday decor after the holidays 36. Don’t feel obligated to say yes to every invitation (this includes weddings, dinners, events, etc.) 37. Eat right, exercise and get enough sleep so you won’t have to pay with your health 38. Pay bills online to save on postage 39. Stop smoking 40. Stop drinking soda 41. Compare gas prices to find the most affordable gas station 42. Start to use beauty treatments with homemade recipes. 43. Keep plastic takeout containers for future use 44. Avoid out-of-network ATMs 45. Keep track of your money with a spreadsheet. 46. Plan out your meals for the week 47. Brush and floss every day and take care of your teeth to prevent pricey dental bills. 48. Always comparison shop 49. Check out bed and breakfasts instead of hotels 50. Travel during an off-peak season or time 51. Travel to an underrated place instead of famous tourist spots 52. Use reusable grocery bags 53. Feed your pet the right foods and keep it in shape to reduce vet bills 54. Review your receipts to make sure you’re not being charged for odd items 55. Watch movies on streaming instead of going to the theatre or buying opies. All these thing are not much but they can make you save a lot. So why not to try a few of them, if not all.

January 2014

Finnish Association Seminar at Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin

Crepe & Co Hua Hin

HYATT REGENCY HUA HIN SPREADS HAPPINESS AND JOY

Crepe & Co celebrated their 1st year anniversary on Saturday 14 Mr. Sammy Carolus, the Hyatt Regency Hotel’s General Manager, December with many glasses of Spanish Sangria. the management team, hotel staff and guests celebrated the commencement of the festive season by lighting the Christmas tree The Deputy Director of the Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin, Weerasak in the lobby. Pongpattanapan M.D., gave a warm welcome to Mr. Pukka Venekoski, the Chairperson of Finnish Association, and Finnish Members from Hua Hin and Cha-Am for a seminar, “Ophthalmic and Orthopedic Diseases”. This event took place at the Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin.

Environmental Conservation

Ready for the up coming Putahracsa festive season

On this special day, the event was even more meaningful with the launch of the “Bags of Care” Project to support Chonlapratan Pranburi School (Baan Wang Pla) by producing bags painted by the students. The proceeds will go towards purchasing the books for the school’s library.

The campaign included students from Boh Fai Municipal School and their teacher Ms. Kanokwan Khaikaew and coincided with the annual concert organised by the Preserve Hua Hin Group on Hin Lek Fire Hill.

The hotel’s staff and management provided some happiness for 14 needy students from the school by inviting them to stay one night at the hotel and experience breakfast at Figs Restaurant. A variety of games and recreational activities were also arranged to bring a smile to their faces.

he Mayor of Hua Hin Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul and delegates from the Hua Hin Municipality attended activities for an environmental conservation campaign with the Chairman of Preserve Hua Hin Group Mr. Krib Rojanasathira on 7th December 2013.

Manuel Lang and the Heads of Department at Putahracsa were enjoying their outing at Suanson Pradipat on November 26th, 2013 for better communication, to create environments where creative ideas, problem solving, affection, and caring can flourish because they believe that successful communication means not just understanding the words or the information being communicated, but also understanding how the speaker feels about what they are communicating.

Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa Staff Party

They are ready for the up coming festive season. Let’s make it together!!

Chef Tanu Panthong

aving worked in five star hotels and resorts in Hua Hin, Koh Samui and Phuket, Chef Tanu brings over nineteen years of experience in Asian, Mediterranean, Western, New Asian, Molecular Cuisine and Fusion Cuisine to his new role. He joins Putahracsa from his most recent role as Executive Sous Chef of the Maikhao Dream Villa Resort & Spa Phuket and before that as Executive Sous Chef of the Outtrigger Senenity Resort Phuket. Prior to working in Phuket, he worked for several five star hotels and resorts including Evason Hua Hin, Six Senses Spa, Dusit Resort & Polo Club Cha-am, Hua Hin and Sofitel Central Hua Hin. His new role at Putahraca enables him to express his passion for cooking and creating unique, imaginative and flavourful cuisine.

New Food & Beverage Manager

anyan The Resort Hua Hin is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Sirirat Murphy (Nok) as Food & Beverage Manager. Ms. Sirirat has a Master Degree from Thames Valley University, London with over 17 years of experience, working as a General Manager for several successful restaurants-chains within the UK such as Chaophraya Restaurant (part of the Thai Leisure Group) and Mango Tree with a turnover of over £1 million within one year of her appointment. The restaurant ranks as one of the best Top 5 Thai restaurants in the UK for many years and has won numerous awards for its cuisine. Mango Tree was featured in BBC Master Chef Series and a runnerup for Gordon Ramsay ‘Best Restaurants’ as well as Kitchen Nightmare on Channel 4 programme. Nok brings a wealth of international experience with her to the Food & Beverage team and with her knowledge and skills; she will further contribute to the success of the Resort.

n 14th December 2013, Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa arranged a Team Member Party under the theme of “Hilton Hua Hin Sport Party”, to thank you our team for their dedication, professionalism and the full support always received throughout the year. This is their 13th year annual party.

January 2014

MAHOUT EXPERIENCE AT

January 2014

National Teacher’s Day

HUTSADIN ELEPHANT FOUNDATION Teacher’s day is celebrated every year on January 16th in Thailand

Wai Kru Day is the day of the year when Thai students show respect to their teachers by participating in school ceremonies. They thank their teachers for the knowledge they have given them, for the gift of learning, and wish them good luck in the future school year and in their future lives.

he mahout experience has been set up and run by volunteers at the foundation who want to give a more ‘hands on’ approach to visitors who are interested in learning about the day to day care of our elephants.

you will get a tour of the foundation, meet all 6 of our elephants, get to prepare food for the old lady (90 ish), feed 2 retired elephants, help to clean up their shelters, take one for a walk and then give her a wash.

It is only available on a Monday, Wednesday or Friday morning 9.00 a.m. to midday and booking by e mail - hutsadinhuahin@hotmail.com is required. The cost of this is 1,000 Baht per person. This includes a basket of fruit and a t shirt per person.

If necessary you will get to give any medications due, and you will probably get to see the youngest elephant give her show if you would like.

You can also have a basic vegetarian meal for free! You will have an English speaker with you at Just to give a general rundown of what to expect on all times who can answer any questions you might the day : There is no strict itinerary, depending on have. Please wear clothing and shoes that you what needs doing at that particular time, however, don’t mind getting wet and dirty.

HISTORICAL MONTHLY AVERAGES FOR JANUARY

T T

he information presented below gives detailed Estimated Hours of Sunshine per Day historical monthly average weather conditions We calculate sunshine hours per day using our past along with exceptional weather occurrences. forecast data. For January expect the sun to shine o maintain relevance to current weather trends for an average of 9 hours per day. This represents the displayed information has been calculated the average number of hours in the daytime that the using data collected over the past two sun is visible and not obscured by cloud e.g. the decades. The climate profile is taken from closest average number of hours the sun is actually out and shining. Note we calculate hours of sunshine per available data source to Hua Hin. day using our past forecast data, not observation Temperature data, thus it is an estimate and not actual. Throughout the month of January daytime temperatures will generally reach highs of around Wind 30°C that’s about 86°F. At night the average The average daily wind speed in January has been minimum temperature drops down to around 22°C, around 4 km/h, that’s the equivalent to about 2 mph, or 2 knots. In recent years the maximum that’s 71°F. sustained wind speed has reached 56 km/h, that’s In recent times the highest recorded temperature in the equivalent of around 35 mph, or 30 knots. January has been 39°C that’s 101°F, with the lowest SWIMMING AND WATER TEMPERATURE recorded temperature 11°C, about 52°F. The temperature of water an individual will feel Relative Humidity comfortable in is very much personal preference. The average daily relative humidity for January is What feels unbearably cold to one person for a around 71%. swim might be fine for another. In January, for the nearest coastal location, the Precipitation The average monthly amount of precipitation has temperature of the sea averages around 28°C, that’s been recorded at around 0 mm, that’s 0 inches. 82° Fahrenheit. Our index indicates for swimming in Throughout the month you can expect to see rain this is considered very warm and would be enjoyed by all. With this temperature you can stay active or drizzle falling on 1 day of the month. in the water for extended periods of time without feeling uncomfortable.

On Wai Kru Day students come to school with flowers and gifts for their teachers. Many of them dress in traditional Thai costumes. At many Thai schools, the students make their own floral arrangements. They use traditional Thai flowers and plants, banana leaves and incense in the larger arrangements, all of which have different meanings (for example, patience, respect and discipline). These are given to the teachers at an elaborate ceremony during which time every child at the school is expected to wai their teachers (hold their hands in the prayer position) and pay them respect.

teachers were our benefactors and persons who gave light to our life they should have a day of their own so that their students would get an opportunity to pay respect to them. He continued, “On other auspicious days such as New Year’s Day and the Songkran Festival we pay a tribute to both our living and dead relatives and make merit in dedication to their souls. Since our teachers play an important role next to our parents, I would like to propose the idea to this gathering and ask you to consider it in principle.”

As a result of his remarks, the Teachers’ Council unanimously agreed to set up Teachers’ Day in order to hold a ceremony to pay a tribute to the teachers, to promote unity among teachers and to promote better understanding between teachers and the general public. On November 21, 1956, the Cabinet passed a resolution to announce January 16 of every year as Teachers’ Day and the school The History holiday was celebrated for the first time on January In 1956 Prime Minister Field Marshal P. 16, 1957. The event has been held since then and Pibulsongkram, addressed a gathering of teachers is held nationwide. from throughout the country and suggested that as

INTERNATIONAL SUSTAINABILITY AWARD FOR PRACHUAB KIRIKHAN BASED MERMAID CRUISES

he Prachuab Kirikhan-based shipping company Mermaid Cruises has won the Skål International Award for Sustainable Tourism in the Transportation category. Barry Stone, founder of the Mermaid Company was delighted. “The award recognizes our company’s commitment to the environment. In addition to our electric boats and road vehicles protecting the environment by virtue of being virtually emission-free, we also endeavour to make our customers, staff and local residents aware of the vulnerability of the environment. We network around the ecologically sensitive area of don’t simply play at looking green, we are green!” Amphawa/Samut Songkram. Our latest vessel Barry Stone received the award at a ceremony is a 3-way hybrid coastal catamaran for up to 40 at the Hua Hin Hills Vineyeard, close to Hua Hin. people. The Award for Sustainable Development President Andrew Woods of Skål Thailand handed in Tourism promotes tourism that does not destroy over the prize together with Michael Schmitt, nature. That is exactly what Mermaid Cruises is president of Skål Hua Hin. An earlier doing.” prize-giving ceremony took place as part Chances of the Skål world congress aboard the cruise ship Carnival Glory that departed Barry Stone is retired and leaves the from New York harbour, where the award running of the business to his Thai was handed over to the Thai delegation. wife, Tan. “I have seen many changes Skål is a worldwide organization that over the years”, says Barry. When brings together leaders from all layers we started, there were no provisions of the hospitality industry. Thailand’s under Thai law that allowed the representative on board Scott Smith, legal operation of electric boats or the director of Young Skål Thailand, cars. Today, all of our electric boats received the award. Thailand receives this are legally registered - this required a major shift Transportation award for the first time. in policy the Thai Shipping Authority in Prachuab Environmentally friendly

Founder Barry Stone is a retired professor of linguistics. “Five years ago I decided to build an electrically powered, environmentally friendly boat to cruise along the Pran Buri River. We have also built a second electric riverboat for use in waterway

Kirikhan. We also received great assistance from the Mayor of Amphawa, who warmly welcomed our electric riverboat there and even provided us with a special mooring. At the end of the day, though, we cannot do it alone. Mermaid Cruises needs support. This help is coming from the changing attitude of civil servants, a green mayor and, of course, we hope this international award will also help our cause”, Barry concluded.

January 2014

Vintage and classic cars take to the road for 11th Hua Hin Automobile Concours

he first motorcar arrived in Thailand in 1900. Presumably the first traffic jams arrived soon after, as the Thais enthusiastically embraced cars, buses and motorcycles, and the canals that had given the city the sobriquet “Venice of the East” were filled in to make new roads. The 11th Hua Hin Automobile Concours 2013, which was held from November 29th to December 1st displayed a few cars that would have been at home on the city streets during those very early days of motoring, the oldest vehicle being a 1904 Darracq, still in magnificent working order. There is a small but dedicated band of enthusiasts in Thailand that collects and restores antique autos, and the annual Concours is a raiser of charity funds that has become one of the most colourful events in the resort town of Hua Hin, on the Gulf of Thailand. The event is based on the Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin, one of the classic hotels of the East, which had begun its life in 1923 as the Railway Hotel. Centara Hotels & Resorts acquired the hotel in the mid-1980s, and sensitivity towards its original ambience, the company expanded and upgraded the facilities to meet the needs of today’s travellers. Today, the hotel is a five-star property that is a

member of the Leading Hotels of the World. The hotel is the lead organiser of the Concours, along with Dr Prachin Eamlumnow, President and CEO of Grand Prix International Co Ltd, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Hua Hin Municipality and Prachuap Khirikhan Province and with the support of other five-star hotels in Hua Hin. The event was held in honour of the 86th birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and the 81st birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, with the net proceeds being donated to the Chaipattana Foundation, which is under the patronage of the King. The Concours actually began in Bangkok, with the more robust of the vintage and classic automobiles lining up outside the Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao. One by one, led by a 1929 Rolls-Royce, they emerged into the kind of traffic that would have astounded their former owners, and set off for Hua Hin, a distance of almost 200 km. Ten of the cars did the journey under their own power, with another 40 being trucked into Hua Hin. Once they reached the outskirts of the resort town, the roadworthy vehicles went first to Chang Hua Man Royal Project, an agricultural project that

THAI to launch in-flight internet services soon

he national flag carrier, Thai Airways International, will soon provide in-flight internet services for passengers now that the Telecommunications Committee of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission has granted a licence to the airliner.

January 2014

was initiated by the King, where participants and visitors took part in a traditional Buddhist ceremony releasing fish and turtles into the lake, along with the planting of a number of trees, with the cars lined up majestically by the waterside. After the ceremony the cars headed for Hua Hin, where they were cheered by crowds of visitors and residents and after touring the town centre they entered the grounds of the Centara Grand, where they took up position in the driveway and on the lawn. Dinner that night was at Venezia, a large new precinct and mall on the outskirts of Hua Hin that features its own canal and gondolas, and a number of the cars drove out for the event, led by the 1904 Darracq, with a triumphantly fruity blast from its horn. Next morning saw a presentation of bicycles to 86 children – the number commemorating the King’s 86th birthday – from four schools in Hua Hin, followed by lunch at Majestic Creek Golf Course, again with the cars in attendance. The range of cars covered many decades. There was a tiny

1922 Austin Seven, a two-door car that was parked proudly at the entrance to the hotel grounds. A 1928 Packard whose owner had bought it as a wreck and had lovingly restored it complete with the boat-tail that was briefly fashionable in the 1920s. There were at least four Rolls-Royces. Two vintage Jaguars - a 1955 Mark 7 and a 1956 XK140 – drew admiring comments from the crowds, as did American cars of a similar vintage, including Chevrolet Bel Airs from 1953 and 1957, a 1959 Cadillac Eldorado and a 1960 Ford Thunderbird. The final evening of the Concours saw a gala dinner on the lawn of the hotel, with the ocean in the background, a fine selection of food, and an energetic fund-raising auction. The final morning saw breakfast presented to 87 monks, another Buddhist tradition. Then it was back to Bangkok. The amount donated to charity this year by the 11th Hua Hin Automobile Concours was 735,749 baht, exceeding last year’s donation. Now the planning begins for the 12th Concours, with every expectation that 2014 will see yet another very popular and successful event in the royal resort town of Hua Hin.

Cultural Beauty Queen

n 10 December 2013, the chairperson of Hua Hin Cultural Council Ms. Wanna Choksuchart and the Council’s members awarded the first prize to Ms. Sirin Thepthapthim as the most beautiful lady of Hua Hin Cultural Council. The first runner-up was Ms. Chadanut Sukmak and the second runnerup Ms. Wanwisa Ritthiphat. The beauty pageant was a part of the Sueb San Watthanatham Thai Saiyai Chumchon (literally, Thai Culture Fostering and Local Community Strengthening) internet services on six A380 and seven A330- festival held by Hua Hin Cultural Council. 300 Airbus aircraft in the initial stage with plan to expand the services to more aircraft.

Mr Korkit Darnchaivichit, vice chairman of the NBTC, said that a licence to operate inflight internet services had been granted to THAI by the Telecommunications Committee and the next step is for THAI to submit The NBTC board also endorsed the IC charge required documents to the committee plus a for operators of the third category of telecom reconfirmation that it will provide the services services which include cellphone, basic phone THAI has informed the Telecommunicatioins and international phone serive at 45 satang per Committee that it plans to provide in-flight minute.

Dhamma Preaching Winner

Happy New Year Swissotel

he Director of Khao Phithak Municipal School Dr. Wirat Maneepruek and teachers congratulated Chanikarn Thong’ngamtrakul, a primary student from Grade 6, who won the prize for a Dhamma Preaching Contest at Hua Hin School. The event was organised by the The Executive Director of the Swissotel Nai Lert Park Bangkok, Ms. Duangpat Pothirattanangkul Director of Hua Hin Cultural Council Ms. Waraphan Sudtham. gave a New Year present to the Mayor of Hua Hin Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul.

January 2014

Swedish Association in Hua Hin:

Membership Meeting th January 30 , 2014 H

January 2014

The Annual Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa

Tree Lighting Celebration 2013

ua Hin is for many of us sunshine, swimming, good food and friendly people. But it is also for some, unfortunate, accidents of various kinds. Not the least because of what is hidden in the nature in the form of insects, poisonous snakes and other unpleasant things. How can we protect ourselves?

Dr. Sithichsai from Bangkok Hospital gave a much appreciated lecture on this topic at one of our recent ladies’ luncheons. His illustrations and clear language made translation redundant. The starting point is “first-aid in emergencies”.

Another problem in Thailand is the poor state and control of the power grid. Perhaps more various immigration issues. correctly; deficiencies at installation. The meeting on January 30th held at the Hotel Too many people risk being seriously injured Hilton in Hua Hin and will start as usual 6:00 in the shower due to improper power p.m. management. Mr. Ingemar Jansson and his We plan to open the doors to the meeting room colleague Khun Warun will talk about at the around 4:45 p.m. The entrance fee is 100 Baht next meeting. They will give us clear advice on with pea soup / pancakes or sandwich costing what should be addressed. These instructions 200 Baht. should urge everyone to reflect. Very welcome to this important membership We will continue with the individual meeting meeting! “stations”. Among other things, you will have an opportunity to get individual counseling in Swedish Association in Hua Hin

he Hilton Hua Hin started the 2013 Christmas festive season on 18th December with a Tree Lighting Ceremony and is ready to welcome the 2014 New Year. The event was led by Mr. Michael Schmitt General Manager, Ms. Nuwanna Anantakijpaisarn Deputy Governor of Prachuap

KING’S CUP GOLF HUA HIN

SIGNS FIVE-YEAR AGREEMENT WITH ASIAN TOUR

onda and SAT become Presenting Sponsors of record US$1 million tournament at Black Mountain GC, Hua Hin from January 16-19, 2014

The King’s Cup Golf Tournament in Thailand will offer a record US$1 million in prize money when the prestigious tournament is staged at the Black Mountain Golf Club in Hua Hin in January, making it the penultimate event of the 2013 Asian Tour Schedule. Officials announced in a press conference today that the King’s Cup Golf Hua Hin will take place from January 16-19, 2014, with the 2013 Asian Tour season set to conclude in the following week in Malaysia. Suwat Liptapanlop, Chairman of the Organising Committee, said: “As one of Thailand’s most prestigious sporting events, we look forward to preserving the great stature of the King’s Cup Golf Hua Hin through a long-term partnership with the Asian Tour, which is the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia. “There are three main objectives for this tournament - firstly, the tournament itself will develop Thai golf as a whole, especially for local golfers, by providing them the opportunity to have access to more international arenas of play. Secondly, the tournament honours Thailand’s beloved King, who has donated the prestigious and legendary King Trophy to the event. Finally, as an added bonus, events such as this will help promote and support tourism to Hua Hin, and Thailand as whole, through the worldwide television exposure it will receive. Various channels of communication will be bringing the excitement of golf in Thailand to millions of global viewers in the international market.” Suwat added: “We look forward to a very successful staging of the King’s Cup Golf Hua Hin, which will be played at the Black Mountain Golf Club in Hua Hin, with an unprecedented US$1 million in total prize money. It will be a fantastic celebration of golf which will pit the finest Thai players against the best international players from the Asian Tour.”

Chayapat Sunayont, President of the Professional Golf Association of Thailand, said: “The PGA Thailand signed a landmark five-year agreement to stage the event on the region’s premier golf Tour until 2018, which is a significant boost for the game in Asia. The staging of the King’s Cup Golf Hua Hin is collaboration between the Asian Tour, the Thailand PGA, and The Agency. The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) will fund the US$1 million prize money as a presenting sponsor, while Honda has also signed up as a presenting sponsor.” King’s Cup Golf Hua Hin. For the first time ever, the King’s Cup Golf Hua “From an initial US$300,000 prize purse Hin will be broadcast live, over four rounds tournament in 2009, it is fantastic to see on the Asian Tour’s global television platform the King’s Cup becoming a US$1 million which reaches over 180 countries and 640 championship, which is fitting for a tournament million homes, ensuring extensive exposure of such great stature. Through a long-term for the popular beach resort town of Hua Hin, association, Thai golf fans will be able to watch as well as the sponsors, and the Kingdom of the finest collection of players from across Asia Thailand itself. competing in the King’s Cup Golf Hua Hin, SAT Governor Kanokphand Chulakasem said: alongside many of Thailand’s top golfing stars. “On behalf of the Sports Authority of Thailand, “I would also like to express my fullest we are delighted to become a presenting appreciation to SAT for its great support as sponsor of the King’s Cup Golf Hua Hin, which is presenting sponsor, as well as Honda. The one of the most prestigious golf championships Asian Tour will also work closely with the in our Kingdom. Thailand PGA to ensure the successful staging “Through our involvement, we believe the of the King’s Cup Golf Hua Hin,” said Han. staging of the King’s Cup Golf Hua Hin will Harald Elisson, General Manager of Black further develop professional golf in Thailand and Mountain Golf Club, said the club was maintain our nation’s proud tradition of creating delighted to host another world-class Asian great champions such as Thongchai Jaidee, Tour tournament following the staging of the Thaworn Wiratchant, Boonchu Ruangkit, Black Mountain Masters in 2009 and 2010, on Prayad Marksaeng and Kiradech Aphibarnrat the region’s premier tour which is celebrating its on the Asian Tour.” milestone 10th season in 2013. Pitak Pruittisarikorn, Executive Vice President “We look forward to welcoming the best of Honda Automobile (Thailand) Co., Ltd., said: players from the Asian Tour for the King’s Cup, “As a presenting sponsor of the King’s Cup Golf to be held in January, 2014. I am sure it will be Hua Hin, we are very pleased and honored to a very exciting golf tournament for golf fans in partner with the Asian Tour and the Agency to Hua Hin, and television viewers from around organise the tournament. We are proud to be the world, and we will endeavour to prepare part of this effort to promote golf in Thailand our championship course so that a worthy while also promoting tourism to strengthen champion will emerge,” said Elisson. the Thai economy. Through our partnership with this great event, Honda will help to drive The King’s Cup Golf Hua Hin made its debut the growing popularity of golf and interest in on the Asian Tour in 2009, with Chinese Taipei’s Chan Yih-shin lifting the trophy in professional golf across Asia.” Thailand’s Khon Kaen province. The following Asian Tour Chairman Kyi Hla Han year Thai favourite Udorn Duengdecha won hailed the long-term partnership the championship, however the 2011 edition with the King’s Cup, saying it will of the tournament was postponed due to the positively impact the tournament unfortunate flooding in Thailand, and specifically and professional golf across Bangkok, that year. When the tournament Thailand and Asia. Thailand resumed in 2012, Arnond Vongvanij claimed a already annually hosts three other popular home victory, and will defend his title Asian Tour golf events. this January. For more information, please contact: “The Asian Tour is delighted to ASIAN TOUR sign a five-year agreement with Calvin Koh The Agency. This is a very positive Communications Manager development for the tournament, +65 6720 8990 (O) and we will work closely with +65 97948354 (M) all parties to further develop calvin.koh@asiantour.com the stature and prestige of the

Khiri Khan Province, Pol. Lt. Col. M.L. Kitibodee Pravit Deputy Governor of Phetchaburi Province, Mr. Montri Chupu Deputy Mayor of Hua Hin and guests of the hotel. They all joined the countdown to light the Christmas tree at the Hilton’s Hua Hin Resort & Spa lobby with great food, drinks and live music.

Swedish Association December 2013 Swedish Association was very busy during the December month With the following annual events

IKEA TRIP to Bangkok-4 Dec 2013

The IKEA trip was done on the 4th of December and one whole big buss plus one small buss of Swedes headed to Bangkok’s Mega Bagna IKEA to do there Christmas shopping. The buss left at 8pm from the Clock Tower (on the dot by the way) and in true Swedish style the trip started of with refreshment of sandwiches and coffee. The buss reached IKEA and Bangkok a little before lunch.

The next 4 hours was left for the members to walk around Megabagna and IKEA at their own leisure. Many Swedes had pre planned there shopping from IKEA catalogues and came back to the buss at 4pm laden with blue IKEA bags full of Christmas goodies. At 4pm sharp the buss headed back to Hua H in a little bit more subdued fashion after the mad shopping frenzy. This trip is an annual and is well worth it the price of 500 THB with refreshments and return buss ticket plus the Swedish camaraderie is free of charge. Santa Lucia at Dusit Thani Hua Hin Hotel-13 Dec 2013 The annual Santa Lucia festivities at Dusit Thani Hua Hin saw another successful Christmas event arranged by the Swedish Associations, Dusit Thani Hua Hin and Sanuk Swedish School in Hua Hin. As per our story in December issue Santa Lucia is a traditional event happening in December all over Sweden. Usual a young child is chosen to represent Santa Lucia an Italian martyr dressed in white with real or fake candles on her head singing the song Santa Lucia. She is always followed by appropriately attired little boys and girls. No Christmas is realy quit the same without this Santa Lucia tradition in Scandinavia.

At Dusit Thani the dean of Sanuk Mrs. Monica Fernqvist and her daughter started the event by explaining the tradition of Santa Lucia followed by the traditional performance of Santa Lucia procession by the students of Swedish Sanuk School in Hua Hin. Aproximatlt 150 non Dusit Thani guests attended the event. After the event the Santa Lucia children gave out traditional Christmas cookies and there was a buffet with Scandinavian delicacies. For more information on the Swedish Association go to: www.svenskforeningenhuahin.se/

January 2014

Prachuab Nun Bestowed Honoured PHD. hono

he Rattanakosin Rajamangala Technological University has bestowed a Ph.D. degree to a nun in Prachuab Khirikhan, honouring her invaluable contribution to Buddhism. Congratulated by Thai universities, schools, public offices and Buddhists, she is the first female priest in the province to receive this honourary degree. According to the President of Rattanakosin Rajamangala Technological University Asst. Prof. Siwa Sutharaphiwat, the Faculty of Hotel and Tourism Industry already bestowed the Ph. D. in tourism to Ms. Phathu Huadhin, also known as Mae Chee Lek (Nun Lek), from Wat Suk Samran Buddhist Temple in Hua Hin on 13 December 2013.

Mae Chee Lek has stayed at Wat Suk Samran since Venerable Samran was the temple’s Abbot. In 2012, she was a part of the temple members who successfully mobilised the temple to become the major Buddhist temple of Hua Hin. She also published a book on Thai herbal medicineand helped building and renovating two Buddhist temples: Wat Tham Khao Noi in Kui Buri and Wat Khao Tao. She also rd helped upgrade Wat Suk Samran as a learning center on ethics and er Royal Highness Princess Srirasmi graciously bestowed a bouquet morality, and worked as a trainer on Buddhism for the Dhamma Youth donations to Klai Kangwon School, Princess Mother’s Medical Volunteer Foundation, Buddhist Monk Foundation of to Khun Sinee Thienprasiddhi, Executive Director of Dusit Thani Preservationists at many schools and universities every year. Public Company Limited, and Khun Victor Sukseree, General In terms of other social and public works, Mae Chee Lek has constantly Hua Hin Hospital and a new patient building of Chulalongkorn Manager of Dusit Thani Hua Hin, in the hotel lobby on the occasion of provided financial support for learning and teaching materials at Hospital. Thanks to her great contribution on social and public Dusit Thani Hua Hin’s 23rd Anniversary. schools, universities, municipal and district offices. She also made works, His Majesty the King has recently given her the Knight Commander (Second Class) of the Most Admirable Order of the Direkgunabhorn.

23 Anniversary of Dusit Thani Hua Hin

Mae Chee Lek has also co-organised with academics and Buddhist monks a trip for Thai Buddhist to historical sites where the Lord Buddha was born, gained enlightenment and passed away in India, Nepal and Sri Lanka. The upcoming trip will be on 5 February 2014. A very inquisitive person, she already visited Europe, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar and Singapore to study about local people’s lifestyle and the world heritage sites of those places. Asst. Prof. Siwa said that Mae Chee Lek was happy to help the university, particularly for the program on Thai civilization and Buddhist heritage for tourism apart from giving financial support for the students and research scholarships for the lecturers. Deeply grateful for her contribution, the Rattanakosin Rajamangala Technological University has therefore bestowed her the Honoured Ph.D. degree. After Mae Chee Lek received the Degree, she was congratulated by many distinguished people of Hua Hin, especially the mayor of Hua Hin Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul and the Hua Hin District Chief Mr. Pornchai Thomkrajang.

Some Important Regional Contacts

Organization

Hua Hin

Cha Am

032 514 477 032 512 770

032 471 159

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

Transport

Bus Station Railway Station

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

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

January 2014

Princess Sirindhorn International Environmental Park Photo Contest

LIVE MUSIC IS ALIVE AND WELL IN HUA HIN

Chez Loulou, go south on Petchkasem to Rd Soi 104 after Market Village, Jam Session, Jazz and more, Wednesdays at 8 pm.

he Princess Sirindhorn International Environmental Park is pleased to invite amateur and professional photographers of any age to join the photo contest 2013-2014. All photos submitted for the contest should depict and express beauty of the Park.

Sirindhorn International Environmental Park is located in the Rama VI Camp, Amphoe Cha-am. The park was established by the cooperation of the Border Patrol Police Bureau, Huai Sai Royal Development Study Center and the Foundation of Mrigadayavan Park under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Bejaratana, on the occasion of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s Forty-eighth Birthday The artwork should not be photoshopped. More Anniversary in 2003. terms Conditions apply please check website for The winner for the contest will be awarded a details (in Thai). Website: www.sirindhornpark. trophy by HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn or.th.122.155.171.22.no-domain.name/TH/news_ and over 100,000 Baht cash. To take part please detail.php?id=396 . Each contestant must submit send Email siep@sirindhornpark.or.th up to 28 a contestant form which can be found on(in Thai): of February 2014. All participants should submit http://www.sirindhornpark.or.th.122.155.171.22. their photo artwork in jpg picture 8000,000 million nodomain.name/backoffice/ckfinder/userfiles/ files/App_Photo_Form2557.pdf. pixel on a white background.

HISTORY OF THE NEW YEAR IN THAILAND

he traditional Thai New Year Day started to change from April 1st about 124 years ago (from the Thai year of 2432) onwards. For many people especially the rural areas New Year is still part of the festival of Songkran.

ua Hin is the Jazz City of Thailand, or even Asia. Not only jazz is played but also live music in general, like blues, rock, country, Latin and so on.... Maybe nowhere else in Coco51 Restaurant & Bar at Soi 51, by the sea. Tel Thailand, you will find such a concentration of live 032 515 597 www.coco51.com music of all kinds. Soft Jazz Live every night 7.30pm to 10.30, but Hua Hin is the only city in the world which can boast sometimes variable and a little later. Musicians are of residing a jazz playing monarch, His Majesty Uri and Maraya /// Kh. Bom and Bay King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the King of Thailand. His Majesty is an accomplished musician, playing El Murphy’s Irish Pub at Sela Kam Rd not far from many instruments and the composer of more than hotel Hilton. Live music nightly at 9pm. The Stone one hundred songs, many of them popular and Band is one of the best modern & classic rock often heard around Thailand. band. Musicians from all over the world gather in Hua Hin every high season to play together and of course with the many excellent Thai musicians. There are many live music venues in Hua Hin and these listed alphabetically below are only a few of them.

In the year 2484 (70 years ago) the government more formally adopted January 1st as New Year’s Day with April 1st being known as Songkran Day. Why did the government change New Year’s Day? 1. Not inconsistent with Buddhism. 2. It brings out how a Brahmin came across the Deliver bouquets of flowers or send Buddhist doctrine. a greeting card. 3. The international level of use in countries Decorating the Buddha with flags. around the world. 4. To refresh the culture, ideology and customs of Clean the house Recognise those who have passed away the Thai nation. during the year. Activities for Thai people on New Year’s Day: New Year’s Day is regarded as a great opportunity To earn merit; either at home or to go to temples or places where they may be invited. to review the past and to change what has happened for the better. Give respect to elders and greet friends.

Mekong Café at Petchkasem Road next to and left of Market Village entrance Tel/Fax: 032 532 833 www.mekongcafe.info Saturday night Blues Night, 7pm til late. Musicians: Peter, Flemming, Paul

Cantaloupe Island Bar Bistro/Margaritas at Ray´s Place at the crossing Sra Song and Damnernkasem Road opposite the police station. Amnuaysin Road between Hua Hin Temple and Tel 032 514 448 www.cantaloupe-huahin.com the railway, Jam Session, Jazz, Blues, Country, Music every night 8pm til late. Saturdays, Dixieland Latin, Mondays and Thursdays 8pm until 11. Jazz, Kh. Boy and friends. Souay Vista Social Club at Soi 94 over the Thursdays, Latino Night, Kh. Boy, Maria and railway, go 1 km and after Oy restaurant. Info on Facebook. Every Saturday, Great Blues Band. Felipe. Fridays Great Blues Band

TRADITION THAI CUSTOMS AND BELIEFS

PREGNANCY, BIRTH AND THE EARLY DAYS OF THE NEWBORN

here are many traditional beliefs associated with pregnancy. However in most cases modern health practices are now carried out through out Thailand. Traditional cultural practices may still influence the behaviour of Thai families to some extent and provide an insight into how pregnancy and child birth may be viewed. According to Central Thailand beliefs; conception occurs when a khwan (soul) flies into the womb during a sexual encounter. A woman whose period stops and who starts craving sour foods is thought to be pregnant. Once a woman finds out she is pregnant, she is to tell her partner first, followed by her mother and her mother in law. Infertility is seen as imbalance in one of the essences. Certain acupressure points, however, could be utilized to resolve the issue. In Thai folklore there is a ghost known as Krasue (กระสือ) haunting pregnant women in their homes just before or after the childbirth. Village legends say that it hovers around the house of the pregnant woman uttering sharp cries to instill fear. It uses an elongated proboscis-like tongue to reach the foetus or its placenta within the womb. This habit, among other unmentionable things that this spirit does, is believed to be the cause of many diseases affecting mainly rural women during their pregnancy. Diet During Pregnancy Since pregnancy is considered to be a ‘hot’ condition in Thai Medicine, foods to maintain warmth are preferred, such as ginger tea, coconut milk, young coconut meat, salty foods, tamarind, fish, garlic, onion, and warm liquids. Those who consume pak plang, a slippery vinelike green vegetable, would have an easy birth, since it will make the baby’s body slippery. Ya tom herbal medicine could be prepared as tea and would make the baby strong and easy to deliver if the pregnant woman drinks the tea three times a day for three consecutive days However, khong salaeng (allergic foodstuff) must be avoided by pregnant women, since it may cause unwanted problems during labour or for the unborn child. Khong salaeng foods include papaya salad,

pickled food, spicy hot food (baby may be born hairless), coffee and tea (baby will be not intelligent), shellfish (prevents perineum from drying after delivery), and Thai eggplants (may cause anal pain after delivery). Women are also advised to eat only half a banana, since birth may become obstructed if she eats a whole banana. Behaviour During Pregnancy According to traditional beliefs, strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting, farm work, and even driving a car may lead to a miscarriage or stillbirth, however this may sometimes be unavoidable by the rural poor. Regular activity promotes easy birth by making the abdomen ‘loose’ (tong klon) and therefore aiding in the downward head rotation of the baby. Idleness and frequent resting, on the other hand, would complicate birth. Although pregnant women are prohibited from attending a funeral, wearing a brooch on the abdomen would counteract any negative effects on the foetus. Women should also not make any advanced preparations, such as buying or making baby clothes, as this may result the death of the baby. Other pregnancy-related beliefs include not sitting in the stairway (causes obstructed birth), not burying anything in the soil (difficult birth), and having magical showers (to promote easy delivery and emotional calmness). These showers should be “blessed with sacred words known as ‘nam mon’ by mor mon (a magical healer, or even a monk); they are usually done in an open-aired space from eighth to ninth month of pregnancy. During the last weeks of normal pregnancy, a woman may choose to go to a masseuse for “lifting of a uterus (yok thong) to increase comfort.” Labour and Birth Setting In 1960’s, 99% of the women in villages delivered at home. Today the number is very much lower, as most Thai women give birth in hospitals and clinics, generally where they go for antenatal care. Traditionally, Thai women would give birth at home, either in the bedroom or the kitchen. The delivery room at home is usually decorated with Yant Trinisinghé, “small flags inscribed with sacred numbers from one to nine” or with letters and sings; each flag is a “symbol of a long mantra passage, believed to have power to ward off evil spirits.” Buffalo leather could be used instead of the flags. Birth Assistant and Attendants The traditional delivery assistant, who is usually a woman, is called ‘Mo Tamaye’ in the Central Thailand and Mae Jang in the North. It is generally accepted that the labour starts when the waters break. If the family

cannot get to the nearest medical facility, or does not want to, Mo Tamaye is called. Usually, the husband and Mo Tamaye are present during delivery, but relatives and children may attend as well; however, the woman in labour must be covered from the waist to knee. Traditions During Labour Culturally, there is no need to keep silent during the birthing process. In case of birth complications, the traditional birth assistant would give the woman some holy water or press on her belly. There were no specific foods mentioned to eat during labour. To promote an easy delivery, all windows and doors must be open and the woman must be facing East to symbolize the emergence of new life. The husband should also pile logs outside facing East. Any fastened nails must be undone, and no one should be punching nails to avoid stalled birth. To be born with an umbilical (holy) cord wrapped abound neck was considered a sign of fortune The Cord and Placenta Following a traditional delivery, Mo Tamaye would milk the umbilical cord three times away from the baby “to remove dirt,” then push it back, tie the cord in two places with a special cotton string, and cut the cord in between the two fastened places. The cut cord is then burned, and placenta is buried, usually by the father. Woman’s Rite of Passage After a woman gives birth to her first child, she is considered an adult. She then undergoes the Jufaj when she must lie near fire for an odd number of days, usually around 11 days, so that her uterus will shrink back to the normal size. After each following births, the number of days spent near fire may be decreased. Also, a wooden box with a fire pot may be placed on the woman’s stomach to serve the same purpose. Fire is also said to scare off evil spirits, especially combined with the lemongrass aroma. After a Jufaj, a woman is allowed to move out of her parents’ residence, where she would live before and during the pregnancy, since she is now a mature adult. Postpartum Diet and Behaviour As with the pregnancy diet, warm foods are encouraged, such as hot curries. A woman’s diet must consist of rice and vegetables in the first few months after pregnancy; meat, with exception of fish, must be avoided. From a Traditional Thai Medicine perspective, “sour tastes [do] not dry out the body, but built up water; egg [is] too cooling; jackfruit [brings] in wind [air]; glutinous rice and the sugar of sweets wet the uterus; fruits [do] not give strength and [are] excessively cooling.” Teas out of herbs (naam puu loey) should be consumed, and showers with herbal water (naam puu loeyand naam bai paw) should be taken daily without washing hair the

first two weeks. Woman’s household duties would be taken care by the husband, female relatives, and older children. Traditionally, the female relatives would also check on the new mother.

Newborn There are many variations in traditions across Thailand. Central Thai people say the baby is tog fag (falls on bamboo) when he or she is born. After Mo Tamaye cuts the umbilical cord, she washes and beautifies the baby with yellow and white powder. On the third day after birth, Lon Dek Nai Kadon rite (translates to “rock the cradle in which a new born baby is sleeping”) is carried out. A baby is placed into a basket with a pencil and a notebook (for brightness), and money (for richness); girls are also given knives (to cut and comb hair) and cooking utensils. The basket with the baby and instruments is then handed over to “a respectable man in the village. This means that the baby became his adopted child temporarily, which reflects that the parents expect their baby to be rich and respectable like the adoptive.” Another tradition includes making offerings at a temple (wat) on the third day after the baby is born to obtain a blessing from a monk. Fire-Shaving ceremony takes place when the child reaches the age of one month and one day, which involves cutting of the baby’s hair. As a precaution, babies must be kept away from the rain. Care for the Baby For the first month of the baby’s life, the mother must stay very close and “breastfeed the newborn on its slightest demand.” Babies are also sometimes given a mixture of banana, honey, and water to prevent diarrhea. If the baby cries too much and cannot sleep, it is believed that the baby’s guardian spirit, Mae Sue, is teasing the newborn too much. Usual interaction with Mae Sue is normal, during which the baby will play and laugh by itself.

Naming Traditionally, a name is given to the child on the fourth or fifth day after birth by the father; however, there could be variations in this practice across Thailand. Today, both the mother and father can take part in deciding on a name. A child may not hold the same name as Royalty.

Twins There is a variation in the view of twins. While some view twins as needing more resources and being too demanding on a family, others see having twins as lucky, since it is convenient to take care of them at the same time.

January 2014

SOME INVESTMENT ADVICE – WHAT IS YOUR PROFILE? Some thoughts from a Financial Advisor

his is the time of year when most people in the West start thinking about how much they have spent over Christmas and how much liquid cash they will have to face a cold bleak New Year. One of the great things about living in Thailand is that you can celebrate life every week and not need to depend on too much money for a good time with your friends or family. Religious people will have celebrated Christmas for the birth of Christ and celebrated and spent on their families and friends.

person who leaves his savings to some bank, (let’s face it, not many people I know have had a great relationship with their banks during their working lives. But now they are happy to let their bank feast on their lifetime earnings while they live on the interest pittance the bank gives them annually.

balanced portfolio over time looks after itself. It will return a lifestyle appropriate to the individual needs of its owner. If he wants to go to the USA, Europe or Japan for a vacation or an emergency then there is no problem.

I think my FBI profiler would say this individual If you fit this profile has it taken you a year or longer looked for a few weeks at different houses then to finally purchase a house in Thailand at one tenth bought the best he could afford. A year later his the price of a house in your home country. bank friend is still thinking the property bought a Have you studied the brochures on every car year ago has increased in price. Then he decided on the Thai market for a year and then bought a to rent a car for 6 months before deciding that it It is generally not a time when people think too Honda Wish motorcycle? Please don’t get me was possible to drive in Thailand every day without much about saving and investing, but Thailand wrong. I admire thrift in people but when people damage to life and limb. contains such a diverse mix of people. I am sure let the investment tail wave the lifestyle dog then It has often been said that fear is a dominant right now someone is considering how best to I sometimes think that these people would be emotion in many peoples life. My profiler tells me invest the capital from a property sale in their home happier with a simple monthly pension and their life that people who let the banks control their lifestyle country, how best to live here and leave their money mapped out for them. have a huge fear of loss. The problem is that they secure in a first world currency or simply how to get I have stated here before that this investor type may also have a fear of loosing the gains their portfolio a better return on their investments. leave all their money in a bank but today do you not friends make. Then the hideous four horsemenIf you are that no risk investor and leave everything have to ask what bank can I trust? Terror Bewilderment, Frustration and Despair come in an offshore bank rather than a balanced portfolio and haunt their lives with fear again. then last year you would have lost out with paltry Then there is the person who takes advise puts Perhaps after all under the mattress is the best some money in speculative funds the majority in deposit returns. balanced funds and a little in guaranteed funds. place for this guy’s wealth. I would love to have had the training of an F.B.I. They usually understand the concept that a well To be serious though, tailor your investments and profiler. I would really like to know the profile of a

ANSWERING SOME QUESTIONS ABOUT SNAKES

savings to what best suits your mental makeup. If you are content to let the banks profit from your wealth then let them. If on the other hand you want to take advantage of recovering equity markets then contact your adviser. He may not be an FBI profiler but make sure he is a good Financial Profiler. These comments have been contributed by a Financial Advisor should not be construed to be the opinion of Hua Hin Today management or editorial staff.

TELEVISION IN HUA HIN

hailand has five channels of free television service: Channel 3, Channel 5, Channel 7, on the property. These are ideal places for snakes to lay Channel 9 and Channel 11. All the other their eggs. They provide both warmth and humidity ideal Thai channels are technically owned by the Thai for incubation. These also provide a regular food supply government.

iving snakes are found on every continent and throughout the world except Antarctica, Iceland, Ireland, Greenland and New Zealand. Most snakes are found in tropical regions which includes South East Asia and this includes Thailand!

in the form of rats and mice. *Wood piles are also a favourite haunt of snakes. Once again they provide ideal shelter and food supply. *Building rubble, garden refuse, and junk heaps also provide snakes and their prey with refuge. *Derelict outhouses are ideal breeding sites for rodents and therefore ideal for predators such as snakes. * Day to day household refuse also provides ideal breeding and feeding grounds for rodents and therefore their predators. * Unkempt gardens and overgrown yards. * Aviaries and bird cages. * Ponds and artificial wetlands.

As Thai TV is in the Thai language, and since most expats can’t understand Thai well, then you will only be interested in getting English language TV. Please note that the information below is subject to change and negotiation with costs being indicative only.

Hua Hin Cable TV Cable TV is available in most tourist places. It’s usually cheap (about 350 to 450,- Baht (month) but you have to check the channel list first. At some places, they put only the free TV Channels Snakes are found in many habitats including in the By eliminating all of the above you will discourage, but on the cable which you could also receive with you own dish. Hua Hin Cable TV makes a water, forests, deserts and prairies. Most species are not stop snakes from entering your property. relatively cost-saving choice to viewers in Hua nonvenomous and those that have venom use it primarily What should I do if I encounter a snake? Hin, with 63 local and overseas channels offered to kill and subdue prey rather than for self-defence. The clear objective is to move away; withdraw slowly and at the rate of 300 baht/month. New subscribers Snakes are really one of the least harmful things quietly! Also keep any pets away and don’t try to attack pay a 200-baht installation fee. you could ever come across for several reasons ………….

1. They have no legs or arms. They are basically a long tail. They cannot move fast on the ground, that is fast in comparison to humans. We can easily outrun any snake that exists. 2. There are about 8 deaths per year due to a venomous snake bite in Thailand. Probably every one of them are plantation workers that get bitten, apply some “magical salve” made of ground leaves and roots, and then, when they realise their foot or hand is gangrenous – go to the hospital too late. Occasionally a snake handler is bitten and dies – they tease the snakes mercilessly, day after day, and eventually a snake gets in a lucky bite. 4. You have to really annoy snakes before most of them will bite… or, be too close. So, don’t get close and don’t aggravate them. Snakes do NOT want to see humans and will get away at every opportunity. However fear of snakes is one of the most common human phobias or extreme irrational fears.

Humans are susceptible to a lot of myths about snakes. Lots of us grew up thinking they’re slimy, dangerous, all poisonous, scary ... some psychology experts even claim fear of snakes is inborn.

or use any sort of ‘weapon’. Make room for it to escape, Hua Hin Cable TV offers a fair range of local don’t corner the snake.

cable television channels like.VH1 (the US), TV5

Call for assistance if you have reason to believe the (France), RAI International (Italy), DW (Germany), snake has remained nearby to homes. Snakes cannot hear, so if you are in an area where there might be snakes, say on a golf course, it’s wise to carry a golf club or length of wood with you to beat the ground, especially if you’re venturing into long grass. A snake’s sense of feel is highly developed and the vibrations the “beating” causes will make most snakes scurry off before you even see them. Should I kill all the snakes I see around my house? No!, because ………………………………..

1. The snake may bite you first. 2. Many species are endangered and protected. 3. There are Thai snake guys in town that can take the snake away for you without killing it. Reach them by having a Thai person call the police and asking them to send the snake guys to your location. What should I do if bitten by a snake?

1. Remember as much about the snake as you can and get to the hospital immediately. Snakes are very hard to identify. This may include the length, thickness and colour and patterns of colour of the head and body. 2. Don’t waste time sitting around before going to the So I guess that’s why we are asked so many snake hospital. Find someone to help you get to the hospital questions; here are the expert’s answers! immediately – don’t wait for symptoms and don’t drive Are there snakes around Hua Hin and Cha-Am? yourself. There are plenty of snakes around; just like the rest of the 3. While you are waiting : Clean the wound with water. Be continent. You may get them in your garden and they will gentle, don’t scrub harshly. also venture into town occasionally. However, if you treat Immediately apply a pressure bandage or wrap a piece your encounter with one correctly, you will have virtually of cloth around the bite as well as above and below the no chance of being bitten. bite. Elastic wraps that you use for ankle sprains work Are there snake repellants?

well. Wrap it snugly, but you should still be able to put a There are snake repellent” products available on the finger under the bandage. market that claim to discourage snakes from entering Do Not: your premises. Don’t be misled, nor waste your money. Use a tourniquet These products do not work and are no products Use ice over the wound available that will prevent snakes from entering your Drink alcohol, food, or use aspirin – Paracetamol is property. OK for pain, better if you take nothing before going How are snakes most likely to be attracted to my to the hospital. Use herbal remedies home?

These are the areas of your home that are most likely to Medical Sources: Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Thai Red Cross attract snakes: * Compost heaps. If you’re a keen gardener then you will Society, Bangkok, Thailand (662) 252-0161-4 more likely than not have a compost heap somewhere

channel MGM, National Geographic Adventure, American celebrity show Star World, cartoon channel ANIMAX) while the main ones in each category remain.

TrueVisions Silver Package (905 baht / month) the Silver Package features a few missing pieces to the Gold Package. However, main international channels that are shown through the Gold Package are absent (CNN, CNBC, BBC, ESPN, Discovery Channel, National Geographic, Animal Planet, HBO, Star Movie, Cartoon Network, etc).

BBC World (England), Fox News (the US), CCTV (China), Australia International (Australia), sport channel Real Madrid (Spain), wrestling show Z TrueVisions Knowledge Package (also known (Japan), variety television Channel Nepal (Nepal) as the Bronze Package) (495 baht / month) the Knowledge Package, or the Bronze Package, and ZEE Smile (India). mainly carries TrueVisions-owned channels, For subscription, call 032-512-558, 032-530- covering multiple categories of contents 217 or 032-530-218 imported from the overseas as well as locally produced. Almost all of the internationallyHua Hin Satelite TV Cable TV carrying a selection of foreign language produced/owned channels are excluded from channels is available in most areas. Alternatively, this package. you may wish to subscribe to UBC satellite TV In subscribing, you are required to pay a 2,000also known as TrueVision. UBC Satellite Pay baht deposit and a certain amount of activation TV delivers an acceptable TV program with up fee. The rate of activation fee varies according to 75 channels in the Platinium package. When to promotions in effect at the time, which means you sign up for UBC, watch out for their Promos, new customers are not charged for the system sometimes you get real good offers. activation in some periods. The 2,000-baht TrueVisions Platinum Package (2,115 baht / deposit will be refunded when you terminate the month) subscribers to this top package enjoy service after at least 6 months of subscription. the full range of 76 leading channels presenting To subscribe to TrueVisions 02-615-9000 ext. an extensive array of entertainments (Sony- 6209. produced AXN, sport channel ESPN, movie channe lHBO, dispenser of popular US-produced Free Satellite TV celebrity shows Star World, etc), knowledge In recent years not only the number of satellites (Discovery Channel, National Geographic, The that serve TV station signals have increased History Channel, Animal Planet, etc) and reports dramatically, also the number of stations per of world events as well as international sport satellite have gone up significantly. scenes (CNN, CNBC, BBC, Bloomberg, etc). To get the most out of your satellite Television TrueVisions Gold Package (1,567 baht / month) viewing experience, if is sometimes necessary coming to the second close to the Platinum to upgrade your satellite receiver’s firmware. Package, the Gold Package presents to its Besides possible updates of your system viewers 67 channels out of the full range. Some software, these updates usually include the latest entertainment channels are missing (movie updates / additions of satellites, transponders or TV frequencies and if you have not been updated these manually, you may find that there are a lot news TV stations to watch after each upgrade / update. Satellite Dishes are available as static or moveable and cost between about 7,000 Baht and 18,000 Baht. For the satellite available in Asia you need at least a 1.8 or 2 metre dish. You will not receive anything worthwhile with a small 0.6 or even 1 metre dish. There are several satellites in the area, the one with the most channels is probably Asia SAT.

January 2014

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January 2014

REST DETAIL HOTEL HUA HIN ‘RESTFULLY YOURS’

January 2014

t’s a bit disconcerting when the welcome drink placed at your table in the Hotel lobby starts to topple to one side and then pivot in a circular motion. The first instinct is to reach out to make sure there is no spill but then you quickly realise that’s what it has been designed to do. The glass has a deliberate ‘bulge’ on the base and filled just to the point that when it is rested, it leans to one side but not a drop escapes! This was the first surprise and an indication of the ‘quirky’ nature of the REST DETAIL HOTEL’S approach to being just that little bit different. Another welcoming ‘gift’ was a wristband with small wooden beads as well as three small metal ‘cubes’ with the letters R, D & H, obvious referring to the hotel name. A very appealing extra, which I’m still wearing today as I write. Although the wristband is only decorative and no suggestion that guests should continue to wear their ‘gift’, I couldn’t help but notice that everyone did. Perhaps useful if you take the 5 minute trip into town and have a memory fade? That was our introduction to a night’s stay at the Rest Detail Hotel. We were greeted upon arrival by Khun Prawate Khumchrt (Jack) the Director of Sales and Marketing and his Administrative Assistant, Khun Pirawan Bua-Ngam. The two seemed to enjoy my reactions to the ‘glass problem’ and quickly commented on the Hotel’s deliberate attention to the ‘small things’. After the warm welcome, a guided tour of the premises was on offer, but then they were back to their Bangkok base in the afternoon, confident that we would be looked after by the Hotel hospitality staff. After all there is 125 staff available and with a guest capacity of 65, that’s a ratio of close enough to 2 staff per guest! This hotel is not part of a ‘chain’ or under some sort of corporate oversight. It’s a once-off privately Thai owned and staffed establishment (at every level). There is attention to detail that I’m sure some hotel management would love to be able to control at that personal level. Clearly there has been a vision and with the assistance of a team of professional designers it has been fulfilled. It celebrated a fifth birthday in October this year and in 2013 was the proud recipient of A ‘Trip Advisor’ award. Incidentally I couldn’t help but compliment several of the staff on their English language competence; no communication problems for me. Our tour included a visit to the different accommodation options ranging from the 48 square metre ‘Rest Green’ and ‘Rest Spirit’ rooms through to the ‘Pool Village’ – featuring 12 Units with a dedicated ‘village pool’ at each Unit doorstep. There are also 260 square metre 2 bedroom pavilions or the huge 485 square metre Grand Pavilion with 4 bedrooms and self-contained facilities (including a private pool AND your own butler) for a group of family or friends.

louvered doors allows you to decide. If you wish you can relax in The décor and colour schemes throughout the hotel, including the bath and enjoy the view (or TV) or close off the area and be more accommodation areas have a consistent theme. Perhaps a little secluded. Scandinavian in its cooling and simple tones, but never austere or There’s a huge double bed (or was that triple?) central to the room as dull; just subtle, gentle but inviting. There are no bland walls with well as a study desk and lounge seating. No shortage of space or the texture of wall or ceiling panels in evidence and semi concealed lighting. At night the lighting is understated but effective illumination comfort. But now for some of the smaller details…….. Pillows which have been selected because of their orthopedic quality, where it’s needed. The feeling is one of being in a peaceful and reassuring space without a care in the world. duck-down filling and memory foam.

We didn’t need anything of that scale; our stay was to be at one of 12 ‘Rest Horizon’ rooms on the 4th (top) floor of the hotel which was a Television viewing which includes premium high definition movie channels. more than spacious 65 square metres. Wooden flooring, perhaps of the white oak variety? Time to check out our ‘Resting Place’…………………. Guest-friendly casual and pool side garments including an umbrella, First of all the view; a sweeping panorama over the main swimming slippers, ‘flip flops’ and bathrobes. pool below, then an uninterrupted ocean vista. Only a few naval ships A very deep bath, complete with bath salts – in our case lavender at sea in sight and at night lit with a rigging of Christmas lights ready and eucalyptus. for the fireworks display to come in a few days’ time. This would be A fresh fruit platter. a great viewing platform, but instead we had the advantage of a full Tasty morsels of the sweet variety in glass containers - yum! moon lighting the waters. An iPod docking station for you own favourite music. The view was courtesy of a full room-width private terrace balcony Last but not least, two of the more unusual features complete with a Jacuzzi and oversized circular day bed. You may …………………. be interested to know that the ‘Jacuzzi’ was introduced in the USA A telephone next to the ‘loo’. I guess if you are alone, you never know in 1968 by Candido Jacuzzi who first brought to market this first self- when the call is coming (that is nature or the phone!). contained, fully integrated whirlpool bath by incorporating jets into A towel rack which is a bit like a ladder against the wall. the sides of the tub. The real point of these lists is that there is nothing left to chance. If Inside a combination of living and on-suite areas can be as open you just want to chill out, day or night, visual and creature comfort plan or as private as you choose. This is because a series of sliding and convenience is assured.

Water, in one form or another is always on view throughout the grounds. This Hotel has direct ocean frontage. Dependent on the tide, a sea wall may be the only separation from the ocean with a man-made white sandy ‘beach’ available on the inland side. Apart from swimming pools there are numerous water features with the relaxing effect of running water outside wherever you are. Incidentally across the road from the hotel’s entrance is a football pitch (on the hotel’s private land) when staff are in the mood for some exercise or competition. Dining, especially the evening meal and breakfast is an important part of any ‘away from home’ enjoyment. In our case dinner at the Rest Detail was special. This was a casual candlelit setting alongside the main pool with an extensive À la carte menu of both European and Thai selections. Seafood is a definite option and beef, sometimes a Thailand ‘delicacy’, also prominent. Even Australian rack of lamb is a choice. For me a combination; scallops with roasted asparagus to start, then the classic ‘surf and turf’ with chargrilled mixed vegetables. All this washed down with a bottle of local Monsoon Wines Chardonnay. Strawberry choices was the desert of the night. With cordial, attentive and watchful wait staff on hand and the full moon on display, this was a memorable gourmet dinner guaranteed to be followed by a sound night’s sleep. Morning offers the rising sun if you choose and the vista over the ocean opens up once again. Breakfast is served on the lower terrace with all the choices, including freshly squeezed fruit juice and more selections than anyone could need. This included two of my favourites; French toast and croissants with eggs cooked on the spot as you like them. Check out is simple, efficient and speedy, no need to wait for any unavailable accounts or paperwork. A small annoyance for me at some hotels (not this one) is when the front desk staff doesn’t accept an assurance that you have not used the room minibar. I guess that means the standard of the guests is about the same as the standard of the hotel, with one not respecting the other.

Some Final Comments It would be reminiscent of me not to mention the ‘Three Wise Monkeys’, a logo used by this Hotel and seen everywhere. The source that popularised this pictorial icon is a 17th century carving over a door of the famous Tōshō-gū shrine in Nikkō, Japan. To me logos are important because you are always reminded of your experience in relation to any product whenever the logo comes into view. It is true to say we didn’t see any evil, speak any evil or hear any evil on this visit. In addition we didn’t taste anything evil (it was all delicious), smell anything evil (very pleasant aromas only) or feel anything evil (always comfortable). Forget about evil!, there was nothing even remotely unpleasant! The next time I see the ‘Three Wise Monkeys’ I expect that I will be able to reminisce about this extremely restful experience and be inclined to talk about the subtle, yet quirky (or is that quirky but subtle) details of this most enjoyable overnight stay. Make Rest Detail Hotel ‘restfully yours’ soon!

January 2014

50 Best Father Awards of 2013

Mark National Father Day of Thailand

Social News

Golden Sculpture of ‘Uncle Tuck’ Erected in Hua Hin

January 2014

BANGKOK HOSPITAL HUA HIN STAFF PARTY

wo Prachuab Khirikhan fathers were recognised and awarded as the best father of the year on 5 December 2013. The awarding ceremony took place after His Majesty the King delivered a speech and thanked the Prime Minister of Thailand, the Chair of the Thai Parliament, the Chair of the National Assembly of Thailand, the military chiefs and Thai people who were given an audience and celebrated his birthday anniversary at Klai Kangwon Royal Residence in Hua Hin, said the Prachuab Khirikhan Governor Mr. Weera Sriwattanatrakul. Mr. Chumphol Chokesuchart, the Chair of the local scout group of Hua Hin, was awarded the best father of 2013 for his contribution to family and social work. He is also a successful businessman and local politician. His children are also well recognised because some of them are social workers and one of them is currently working as the Deputy Mayor of Hua Hin. Mr. Sawap Phaoprathan, a businessman from Thap Sakae in Prachaub Khirikhan, was also awarded the best father of 2013 for his hard working and being an exceptional role model for his family. His son is now a Mayor of Thap Sakae and dedicating himself to for the local people there. Before the awarding ceremony, many people gathered together on Phetchakasem Road because they would like to greet His Majesty the King. Once the long-reigning monarch of Thailand granted them an audience, all the people said, “Long live the King”, together. To celebrate the King’s birthday anniversary, the Prachuab Khirikhan Provincial Office and Hua Hin Municipality organised a Buddhist ceremony of alm offering for Buddhist monks at Hua Hin’s Clock Tower early in the morning on 5th December. Later in the afternoon, a ceremony of expressing gratitude to His Majesty the King took place at Queen Sirikit’s Memorial Park. It features a candle lighting ceremony to give best wishes to the King and singing of the Royal Anthems by participants.

he Hua Hin Muang Nai Fun (literally, the Dream City of Hua Hin, in Thai) Club, in cooperation of Hua Hin Municipality, has created a gold sculpture of the City’s senior citizen Mr. Tuck Dechapanya, locally known among Hua Hin people as Uncle Tuck. According to the Chairperson of the Club Mr. Thawee Kasa-ngam, the gold sculpture is now completed and erected at the Artist Village in Khao Dan. Mr. Tuck Dechapanya is a very important figure in Hua Hin thanks to his constant dedication and hard work in the political, administrative and media affairs of in Hua Hin throughout his life. The sculpture will remind everyone in the City of his contribution to society. It will also The Deputy Director and Chairperson of medical operational staff of Bangkok Hospital M.D. Chartree Duangnet, along with the Director promote tourism in Hua Hin, serving as a historical monument. of Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin M.D. Som-ard Wongkhomthong, hosted a staff party or “BHN International Night Party”. This festive event took place at the football field of the hospital.

STAMFORD UNIVERSITY 14th GRADUATION CEREMONY

Besides the sculpture of Uncle Tuck, the Hua Hin Muang Nai Fun Club will ask Hua Hin Municipality, the Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand, the former Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Suwat Liptapanlop and the Executive Chair of Chiva Som Mr. Krib Rojanasathira to install monumental sculptures that symbolise traditional images of Hua Hin, such as fishing boats or sailing ships, along Phetchakasem Road, starting from Hua Hin Airport to the City centre. Those sculptures contribute towards making Hua Hin a beautiful and artistic city similar to some European and American towns. More importantly they will represent the City’s background and unique identity over time. Mr. Thawee added that, once the sculpture project is completed, the Club would launch a project to establish a Hua Hin Local Museum in 2014. A philanthropic person has donated a plot of land to construct the museum. The Club’s Members are brainstorming about objects and artifacts to be exhibited there. Above all, there will be a section about those who contributed to the development of Hua Hin, such as the former Mayor Kromphra Kamphaeng Phet Akarayothin. If this project is successfully completed, it will be a symbol of unity and show the culture heritage to younger generations in the City. “I’m not a native of Hua Hin but love staying here. That’s why I founded the Hua Hin Muang Nai Fun Club and formed this committee. After meetings and discussions, we agreed to create something that concretely represents its identity,” concluded Mr. Thawee.

On 15th December 2013, Stamford International University held the 14th graduation ceremony at the Royal Grand Ballroom, Dusit Thani Hotel Hua Hin. Chaired by the University President Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bunmak Sirinaowakul, the event saw over 500 graduates, 20% of whom were foreign students from 22 countries worldwide. Stamford International University offers teaching and learning under practical curriculums in line with the needs of the current business and labor market. The students are ready to work after completing their study because they are equipped with strong professional and academic knowledge as well as effective English communication. Many of them are recognised and accepted in the business sphere and many students get their dream job within a year of graduation. Thanks to their outstanding English communication skills, Stamford students enjoy higher salary rates than average.

January 2014

Cover Story

SMILEY SEA Eco-Tainment Project Launched in Bang Saphan

he Plant Genetic Conservation Project(PGCP) under the Royal Initiative of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn recently launched the Smiley SEA Eco-Tainment Project in cooperation with the Koh Talu Island Resort and nine other sponsors. This project aims to promote the activities of the PGCP and raise awareness amongst youth and adults in Bang Saphan about the conservation of marine resources.

The newly launched project will focus on a campaign about fishery resources management and coral reef resources as breeding areas for fish. It also creates a database on resources of the Gulf of Thailand and promotes ecotourism in Bang Saphan. All of the activities will encourage local people to take care of their local resources and realise how important they are for local development, especially maintaining and

enhancing the natural abundance of the Gulf. The aim is to inspire younger generations to improve fishing skills as a local business in Bang Saphan and enable them to earn a higher sustainable income. The Smiley SEA Eco-Tainment Project includes four camps about marine sciences which take 3 days and 2 nights to complete. It also features a contest to write a project proposal about rehabilitation and development of marine resources in Bang Saphan Bay. The winning proposal will be used from 5th December 2013 to 5th December 2014. For more information, please contact Siam Marine Rehabilitation Foundation, 111/1, Moo 10, Bang Saphan Sub-District, Bang Saphan Noi District, Prachuab Khiriphan tel. 086 087 7675 or fax 032 692525.

EVERYDAY PEOPLE

fé & Bar t ks called The Marke The Market CMaarke inly Pizzas and snac dern mo is n sig de t Village serving ma He floor.

& Bar at ground There is a new Café ilt Plaza area on the ng. Check it d the in the newly bu en a business meeti ev ate d loc an are nk ey dri r Th r. d/o Ba an & al me a for ce pla great and fresh and this a . s arrived to Hua Hin 47 out Bangkok chic ha nald Tel: 081 174 46 t Village Close MCdo rke Ma or Flo nd ou Address: Gr

Khun Teauw and “Teauw’s Laundry”

inda Sahasram runs a laundry in Cha-Am. However when we spoke to Khun Teauw (her nickname) she was suffering; the result of a motor bike accident with bandages on one swollen leg and limping around on crutches.

him a customer. The question put to him was ….. “Are you busy?” Unfortunately his answer was ….”Yes!”, so off went the customer! He’s learnt what that question means now and will never make that mistake again.

Teauw’s account of the accident was that she stopped outside a 7 Eleven then a car ran into her bike without any rhythm or reason. She says the driver was a 17 year old Thai lady who she thinks may have been drunk.

Khun Teauw is usually full of smiles and even the current injury has not altered her very friendly disposition. She is also known by many ChaAm locals because she helps out from time to time with the catering and drinks at functions when a restaurant or bar is looking for some temporary staff.

Was she wearing a helmet?; NO ………………. Why not? …………… because it was in the morning! So perhaps she was a bit lucky that only her leg was injured and as her 3 year old son who was also on the bike escaped with only a small scratch.

Why does she like Cha-AM? Because things aren’t too expensive; not because of the beach. She doesn’t like too much sun exposure. What doesn’t she like? Stray dogs; a common complaint around town. Holidays? Always back to her home Province of Burriram or perhaps to her husband’s previous home near the town of Nan, not far from the Laos border. At least they always travel in style!

Khun Teauw comes from Burriram and moved to Cha-Am about eight years ago to help her sister run a small bar. However when she saw the need for a laundry service around town she bought one washing machine for the bar. A year later it was A very simple white sign with the word ‘Laundry’ moved it to the current laundry shop where there (in English and Thai) can be seen outside the shop. are now 4 machines operating and bicycles for rent. Teauw says it it’s really called “Teauw’s Laundry” Khun Teauw has been married for ten years and but her husband thinks that a sign with the full there are two sons in the family. They live on the name is too expensive! business premises although as the boys grow The laundry is open 7 days a week from 8AM to 8 older (now 9 and 3 years old), the family is eager PM and easy to find. It’s on Narathip Road (the to move to a bigger place so there is more room main road to the beach) about 200 metres from to move. Husband Yuan bought a brand new the beach road on the right hand side heading for minibus (one million THB) about a year ago and the beach. You’ll also see a Taxi sign outside. operates a private taxi service. We can recommend both the laundry and Both husband and wife speak some English, at mini bus services as friendly and efficient least enough to be able to understand what their operations. If that’s what you are looking for, respective customers need. However Yuan told call in and say hullo or phone 0856 343 631 one story of a small misunderstanding that cost you’ll be impressed!

SWEA Bakery akery in Town New Swedish B bread and

u who love good Hotel has For those of yo y good news. Peon called the pastries there is ry ke Ba ish Swed sured that opened a new as be d you can An ry. ke Ba EA ish bakers SW ey have two Swed rience in it’s authentic as th pe ex with extensive Robin & Jimmy cipes such tional Swedish re ention a di tra t ou g nin ur ch to m kokosbollar just as wienerbröd , sbollar is a ko ocolate the ko ch e lik u yo If few. balls covered ollar chocolate must try, kokosb yum!!. The also make bread s with coconut flake plus cakes, ing dark bread, lud inc rts so all of a coffee with c. You can enjoy sweet pastries et

your e bakery, or get your pastry in th rant au st re l ony Hote order served at Pe do take away. This t outside area or jus pular place so get po a be to ing go is yone else. there before ever ri Hotel, Naresdam Address: Peony 42 46 3 76 1 08 l: Road, Hua Hin Te

HUA HIN DESIGNER OFFERS ONEOF-A-KIND T - SHIRTS

ometimes it’s exhausting to follow fashion trends all the time. As the saying goes, “fashion fades, but style is eternal” – so let’s be versatile yet stylish, by wearing the most comfortable, simplest and easiest thing: a T-shirt – Tees from Phappims. “Customers can order whatever they want to have on their T-shirts,” said 27-year-old Anusorn ‘Q’ Praneeratchalert, owner of Phappim Drawn T-shirts, who can be found at Cicada Market in Hua Hin on Friday to Sunday from 5pm12am. “I can draw anything from animals to celebrities and I only take about 10-15 minutes, which is our advantage since customers don’t have to wait for too long to get their T-shirts,” he said. “What customers like about my work is the fine little details, like the stains on animal skin or human hair. I have my own drawing style which can enhance all these details. Even when I draw the same picture, it will never be the identical because I use different line patterns each time. “As Hua Hin is a world-famous holiday destination,

my customers come from everywhere and the requests are anything they can imagine. Some have asked me to draw them taking a bath or to draw their daughter drinking vodka. One person asked me to draw him beheaded with blood splattered all over. I respect every imagination – it’s their T-shirt and they want something that is original and different,” said Q. “Ever since I was a little boy, I’ve always wanted to be an artist. I want to work with what I have studied in college, which is art. “I thought of something that can be used every day and a T-shirt was the first thing that popped into my head. So I wondered: why don’t I turn an ordinary T-shirt into something that is unique and recognisable? That would be something I can be really proud of.” T-shirts can be worn with anything. You can mix them with jeans to create a sporty look or you can even make dresses out of them by selecting the long ones to make you a bit girly. But sometimes, an ordinary T-shirt can be dull and indistinctive. Phappim T-shirts might be another option.

in Kao Takiab relaxing place to Dream Coffee o Takiab as a great Ka in e ffe Co m ea s Dr

mend Hua Hin Today recom e in a tranquil and cozy setting. t ffe co ice or te is so charming it jus have a lat okies but the place co st, & pa e ing ffe co om zo to e d if befor nu limite takeaway coffees so The café has a me Coffee does a lot of m ea Dr r. tte ma n’t does way. me side of the take a break or takea se to Wilaiwan on sa clo ted ca Lo . Rd p ng Kae-Takia Address: 121/9 No Takiab. s more towards Kao tre me few a road but

January 2014

Cover Story

January 2014

Detox Yes!... but allow yourself a little Chocolate treat!

Starting the New Year Fresh and Clean!

hat a better time to start and clean up the house, and donate whatever you won’t use anymore. Not only it will make space in your home, or better get back a little bit of money, but it will also help, and make someone else happy.

The history of Chocolate

hen most of us hear the word chocolate, we picture a bar, a box of bonbons or a bunny. The verb that comes to mind is probably “eat,” not “drink,” and the most apt adjective would seem to be “sweet.” But for about 90 percent of chocolate’s long history, it was strictly a beverage, and sugar didn’t have anything to do with it.

Classifieds are free of charge when they are posted by a private person and not on behalf of a business. If it is a job vacancy - exception for businesses, if it concerns private property or belongings, if it doesn’t offer (commercial) services or if the sale doesn’t result of any commercial gain.

Where to Donate Hua Hin Red Cross

Any classified that does not meet the above requirements is considered a commercial classified with an advertising fee of 500 THB per classified. If you plan to post multiple classifieds, discount packages are possible. Classifieds older than 2 weeks will be removed. Members (NOT businesses) that want to earn some extra cash are welcome to add Baby, House and Pet Sitting, Private Tutoring, Cleaning / Maid services or private properties that you would like to rent without charge. Please Contact them on their contact page if you wish to post a commercial ads.

They provide: Medical services - In and Out Patients Care Emergency assistance during disasters Blood service Community service (Family Search, Adoption Bahtsold.com Search, First Aid, Medicine, Medical Supplies) You can also drop clothing, blankets, foods for donation. Damneonkasem Road (Between Hua Hin Municipality and Pone Kingpeth Memorial Park) (032) 512 526, 567

powdered chocolate by removing about half the natural fat (cacao butter) from chocolate liquor, pulverizing what remained and treating the mixture with alkaline salts to cut the bitter taste. His product became known as “Dutch cocoa,” and it soon led to the creation of solid chocolate. By 1868, a little company called Cadbury was marketing boxes of chocolate candies in England. Milk chocolate hit the market a few years later, pioneered by another name that may ring a bell – Nestle. In the 20th century, the word “chocolate” expanded to include a range of affordable treats with more sugar and additives than actual cacao in them, often made from the hardiest but least flavourful of the bean varieties. Now you know more about Chocolate, during this period of Detox, allow yourself a little treat with this delicious snack, a bit bitter, a bit sweet, a bit tender, a bit crunchy, and a bit chewy. Follow our Recipe below:

“Chocolate is the best-known ingredient that “Orange Dark Chocolate” nobody knows anything about,” am I wrong? Do Ingredients you know anything about Chocolate? The term “cacao” refers to the plant or its beans before processing, while the term “chocolate” refers to anything made from the beans, “Cocoa” generally refers to chocolate in a powdered form, although it can also be a British form of “cacao.” Etymologists trace the origin of the word “chocolate” to the Aztec word “xocoatl,” which referred to a bitter drink brewed from cacao beans. Many historians have estimated the chocolate to have appeared around 2000 years ago, but recent research suggests that it may be even older.

THE BLUE & YELLOW HUA HIN BOOK EXCHANGE They have over 10,000 books in stock: fiction, nonfiction, biographies, science fiction books in many languages, including English, French, German, Swedish, Dutch, Danish, Finnish and Norwegian. They sell and exchange books for 50% credit reclaimable against any books you choose. book prices from 140 - 180 THB So take a look at your shelves and give them a Website: BahtSold.com is a website who offers fresh air! advertising services for individuals and businesses across Asia. 114/23 Phetkasem Rd. Hua Hin How does it work? Prachuab Kirikan Basically, you advertise second hand goods 77110 THAILAND including vehicles, home furniture, clothing, phone: 0912802328 appliances, books, baby stuff, collectibles, renting jas@huahinbooks.com or sale houses and apartments.... Everything that you can possibly think of! Let the Eco friendly person inside, you let someone Chickynet Classified else enjoy your belonging... And who knows you Website: http://www.chickynet.com/thailand/ might find that special item you’ve been looking for classifieds so long in there, at a really attractive price.

It’s hard to find out exactly when chocolate was born, but it’s clear that it was loved by everyone from the beginning. In pre-modern Latin America, cacao beans were considered valuable enough to be used as currency.

- 200gr of dark chocolate tablet (75% cocoa minimum) for the sweet... -A few drop of vanilla flavour for the tender... - 1 Orange Zest my personal touch for the bitter... -1/2 Cup. of cranberries for the chewy... Both the Mayans and Aztecs believed the cacao -1/2 Cup. Of sliced almond for the crunchy... bean had magical or even divine properties, suitable for use in the most sacred rituals of birth, Instructions marriage and death. Line a baking pan with aluminum foil. Sweetened chocolate didn’t appear until Europeans discovered it with the Spanish explorer Hernando Cortes who brought it back with him and organized a banquet that included drinking chocolate. As it didn’t suit the foreigners’ taste at first –one described it in his writings as “a bitter drink for pigs” – but once mixed with honey or cane sugar, it quickly became popular throughout Spain. By the 17th century, chocolate was a fashionable drink throughout Europe, believed to have nutritious, medicinal and even aphrodisiac properties (it’s rumoured that Casanova was especially fond of the stuff). But it remained largely a privilege of the rich until the invention of the steam engine made mass production possible in the late 1700s. In 1828, a Dutch chemist found a way to make

Lay out almond slivers on baking sheet. Bake in an oven at 200C until light brown, shaking the baking pan occasionally to mix them around, about 10 to 15 minutes. Melt the chocolate in the microwave 30sec, stir and another 30sec until it is smooth. Mix in the cranberries, sliced almond and orange zest. Pour into prepared pan. Smooth the chocolate mixture out into an even layer. Cool to room temperature and then refrigerate until hard, at least 1 hour. Use a knife to break up chocolate into jagged, varied sized bars. Not fans of cranberries? Not a problem; change it for raisins, dry apricots... Enjoy it with Moderation!

Wear Sweatpants Out of the gym?! Who said that sweatpants are only for the gym?!

It’s time to redefine any and every idea of sweatpants. No longer sloppy, workout wear has taken a significant turn for the better. This year, sweatpants and joggers are not the type of trouser that you will wear to the gym or to lounge in: they are officially acceptable to wear out! Most of the high street brands are having them in their collections and they are getting more refined (using bold colours, fine fabrics and slimmer, more tailored cuts).

Stylish enough for both work and workout, they On the bottom (shoes): Pairing them with heels, are the perfect pieces which combine the two sandals, stilettos or platforms guarantees that no one will think you’re on the way to the pharmacy functions. for cold medicine. However, if you are looking for something to wear for work, your best way is to invest in a monochrome/ Stick with the shades of grey or the usual black, anything too bright will look too party-ish. neutral colour palette. On the top: A smart/elegant blouse, for a No saggy butts. They should fit like regular pants, tight around your derriere. professional look. A structured fitted top, a fluid cropped blouse or a crop top for a girls night out drinking - nothing too long or too baggy, you don’t wanna look like you just got out of bed.

The best part about this item is double use; it makes no matter if it’s worn from day to night.

From casual elegance to all over comfy, just make sure to never lose your confidence!.

fter a big month in Hua Hin over December with the Royal celebrations, many flags have been flying. There are two main royal flags, one for the King of Thailand, Bhumibol Adulyadej, popularly known as the “Ninth king” (Rama IX), and the other for Queen Sirikit. Both flags are in plain colors with their respective royal cyphers. Other members of the royal family, like Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and Princess Chulabhorn Walailak also have their own plain-colour flags, but these are not seen very often, except at ceremonies personally led by them. The royal flags are not only used officially, but also unofficially. They are displayed by Thai citizens of any social class or background at any location, usually beside the Thai flag, in homage to their King and Queen. Honoring the royal family is a characteristic feature of Thai culture. These flags are sold at most small stores and grocery stores in every town and village of Thailand. They come in many different sizes. Usually the symbol is printed only on one side of the flag. Flag of the King The King’s flag is in yellow, the color of Monday, the day of his birth. It always has a symbol in the middle. There are a variety of symbols,[1] but recently most king’s flags have either the symbol marking his 80th birthday or the

THE ROYAL FLAGS OF THAILAND

one commemorating the 60th anniversary of his accession to the throne.[2] Both emblems in the center of the flag are quite complex, involving Buddhist iconography and ancient royal symbols of authority as well, like the multi-tiered white umbrella.[3] The kings’s symbols are always topped by the royal crown. Sometimes light rays are emanating from the top of the crown, these are also an element of royal symbology. In simplified versions of the flag the central symbol may come simply outlined in red. Yellow is the color identified with the king in Thailand. Many Thais like to wear yellow shirts as an informal homage to their king, especially on Mondays, the day of his birth.

in 2007. King’s flags decorated with the Symbol marking the 60th anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s accession to the throne Flag of the Queen The Queen’s flag is in blue, the colour of Friday, the day of her birth. Unlike the flag of the king, her flag has always the same symbol in the middle. The symbol is her acronym, the white letter intertwined with the dark blue letter, below a yellow or golden royal crown, sometimes with a pink scroll with Thai writing underneath. In simplified versions of the flag this symbol may come simply outlined in white on the blue ground. This flag is mostly displayed around August, the month of the Queen’s birth.

King’s flag with Royal cypher “ภ.ป.ร.” and crown

Flag of Queen Sirikit of Thailand, blue flag with her acronym “ส.ก.” under the royal crown.

King’s flag with the symbol marking his 80th Anniversary

January 2014

Queen Sirikit’s flag with the king’s flag and the flags of Thailand.

A picture of Queen Sirikit with Thai flags and flags of her 72nd Anniversary in 2004.

Australian and Indonesian scientists jointly prove 98alive™

kills all four strains of the dengue virus

two year phase three clinical trial conducted by leading researchers and scientists at Airlangga University in Indonesia has found that the active ingredient in 98alive™, Melaleuca alternifolia leaf extract (MAC) is an effective antiviral agent against dengue fever. Sponsored by the herbal medicine’s developer, Australian company 98 Alive Pty Ltd, the double-blind, randomised and placebo-controlled trial involved 530 patients in whom dengue infection was shown by Ns-1, IgG and IgM positive detection. Approved by the Medical Research Ethical Committee of Soetomo Hospital in Surabaya, East Java, it found that at a dosage of 300mg twice daily, MAC completely decreased the viral load of all four strains of the dengue virus at a rate of 96.67%. Principal investigator of the trial and leading doctor and scientist Professor Nasronudin states the results clearly indicate 98alive™ is a breakthrough treatment for the highly infectious disease. “This finding is an innovation in treating dengue fever which up until now has had no vaccine or treatment therapy available,” Professor Nasronudin stated. “It showed that MAC not only kills the dengue virus at a rapid rate, with symptoms significantly reduced by day 3 and having disappeared by day 5, but that it also strengthens the immune system with patients’ CD4 ‘helper T’ cells increasing to 14.47% and CD8 ‘killer T’ cells increasing to 13.97%.” Cells that are an essential part of the immune system, these findings are consistent with the results of 98alive™’s Dengue Fever Phase Two Clinical Trial which was jointly conducted in Jakarta and Jogyakarta by the University of Indonesia and University of Gajah Mada. 98alive™ product developer, Australian scientist Professor Max Reynolds adds that MAC regulates the immune system, strengthening the recipient’s ability to fight the viral infection. “Our unique process of distilling the Melaleuca alternifolia leaves ensures that the end product retains the plant’s highly beneficial anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties whilst reducing the bulk of the potentially toxic monoterpene components that have, until now, prevented it from being absolutely safe to ingest,” Professor Reynolds said. A disease transferred to humans through A.aegypti mosquitoes, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), dengue fever is estimated to affect 100 million people every year with 2.5 billion people now living in areas where transmission occurs. Professor Reynolds states he specifically selected Indonesia as the base for his dengue fever clinical trials due to its high and increasing rate of dengue infection. “Dengue fever has been projected to increase even

further over the coming years as global warming causes the habitat for mosquitoes to expand,” he said. “That’s why it was so important to develop a viable treatment, particularly given the fact that many at risk countries such as India, Indonesia, Africa and all of Asia and South America suffer high fatality rates due to current therapies not being affordable, effective or easily accessible.” This is the third and final phase of 98alive™’s Dengue Fever Clinical Trials. Phase One was conducted in 2009 in Jogjakarta by Gadjah Mada University and Phase Two was also conducted in 2009 at the University of Indonesia in Jakarta. Phase One was conducted to evaluate the toxicity and safety of MAC on 29 healthy subjects, whilst Phase Two was conducted to seek the efficacy and safety of MAC in treating 54 dengue hemorrhagic-infected subjects. In addition, MAC has also undergone acute and sub-acute, 30 day and 90 day oral ingestion studies to determine the active ingredient’s toxicity, which showed the product was safe for human ingestion and topical application. Research into 98alive™’s impact in treating dengue fever dates back to 2006, when Professor Umar Achmadi of the University of Indonesia visited Griffith University in Queensland, Australia as an Adjunct Professor, interested in Professor Reynolds’ works. “We have been researching and conducting trials on 98alive™ for 12 years in Australia, the United States of America and Asia in order to verify its efficacy in treating and preventing a number of prevalent illnesses,” Professor Reynolds stated. “Through this credible evidence and research which has been undertaken by independent scientists and facilities, we now have what we believe to be a treatment for dengue fever that can be mass produced efficiently and affordably.” Containing a unique make up of 98 active compounds, 98alive™ is currently available in Australia in three different forms, 98alive™ Immune System Strengthener capsules, 98alive™ Flu and Cold capsules and 98alive™ Pain Relief Oil. All three products are listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods and the product’s active ingredient MAC is currently going through the approvals required to be registered by Indonesia’s National Agency of Drug and Food Control. Developed in Australia, which is known for its strict medical and product regulations, 98alive™ has undergone rigorous testing at world leading research facilities in Australia, the United States and Asia. 98alive™ is available globally on both an individual and commercial scale. For more information on 98alive™, please visit www.98alive.com.

January 2014

ROYAL THAI NAVY LAUNCHES MARINE

CHA-AM INCLUDED IN CHARN ISSARA PLANING OF 4.2 BILLION THB IN PROJECTS

he SET-listed developer Charn Issara (CI) plans to expand in Cha-Am, Phuket, Phangnga and Bangkok with projects worth 4.2 billion baht next year.

The Phuket project will include a hotel on a five-rai site near Sri Panwa Hotel. CI Managing director Songkran Issara said the will invest 500 million company will focus more on Provinces, particularly baht to develop 30 pool villas with room rates from major tourist destinations where urbanisation is 10,000 baht per night. growing. “When choosing a destination for new In Phangnga, the company will develop two projects, we will take into account convenient seaside single houses sized 600 square wah and transportation, border trade, revenue per head priced 120 million baht each, 18 pool villas priced and benefits that provinces will get from Asean from 12 million baht and a hotel on a 20-rai plot. The integration,” he said. project is valued at over 1 billion baht. The Bangkok project will be a seven-storey condo with only 28 units sized 120-200 square metres in Sathon’s Nang Linchi Road area worth 800 million baht. The company has also launched a condo project in Chiang Mai worth 1.8 billion baht, aiming to tap the middle-to-high-end segment. Information from banks’ branches in the northern city shows an increasing number of higher-income earners using mortgage loans this year, he said.

Mr Songkran said CI expects this year’s revenue to be unchanged from last year at 2.1 billion baht, but profit should triple after the sale of Sri Panwa Hotel into a property fund. The developer has a massive Charn Issara will launch a new phase, Baan sales backlog of more than 3 billion baht, of which Thew Talay 3, on an eight rai site in Cha-Am with 60% will be realised next year and the rest will be 500 condo units worth 1.9 billion baht. in 2015.

VOLUNTEEER PROGRAM

he Royal Thai Navy in cooperation with the Chair of Pran Buri Fisherman Association, has recently organized a training for volunteers on protection of the Gulf of Thailand.

The Chair of Pran Buri Fisherman Association Mr. Atichart Chaisri said that the training took place in Pak Nam Pran of Pran Buri with 100 trainees, most of whom were local fishermen. The aim of the activity is to enable the participant to realize current problems in the Gulf of Thailand, particularly in the coastal area of Prachuab Khirikhan. The main problems concern trespassing of water territory by foreign vessels and natural disaster. Since the participants are local fishermen who have their own fishing boats, when they find any problems in open water, they can contact Naval authorities of and give information about the problems for further investigation.

will finally affect the number of fish caught in the Gulf of Thailand. This is a major concern of fishing business owners in Thailand. Another problem with the Thai fishing industry comes from Thai people themselves. Some fishermen are catching baby clams along the shoreline and damaging the shore, thus leaving some small marine animals no place to breed. Mr. Atichart added that, as the chair of Pran Buri Fisherman Association, he was responsible for taking care of around 500 fishing vessels in Pak Nam Pran. Most of the vessels belong to Thai people who legally hire crews from Myanmar and Cambodia to work for them. However, the number of working crews is insufficient as each fishing vessel normally has a 20 man crew. In the future, after ASEAN Community is started, the Thai fishing industry will certainly face labor shortages because crews from neighboring countries will go back home. The labor shortage

In terms of deep water fishing, some big fishing boats catch a lot of anchovy with a big closeknitted seine. The fish is crucial for the normal food chain in the sea. The more anchovy is caught, the less food for other fish, namely dolphin, will become. “Now, I’m working with some concerned organizations of Thailand to install artificial coral in Hua Hin and Pak Nam Pran so that small marine animals like squid, threadfin and mackerel have a place to stay and breed. This activity will start in January, 2014,” concluded Mr. Atichart.

January 2014

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512 503 Fax : 032 535 618

January 2014 C

Condos and Land for Sale by Owner 2brs/2 bths 129 sq.m. 2nd Flr.

Learn Thai or English at Sirada-The Learning Centre

Boathouse (near Palm Hills Golf )

Education Visa for Eligible Applicants

Baan Chai Talay ( next to Hyatt on Hua Hin Main Beach)

Fully accredited by the Ministry of Education

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

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

Palm Pavilion (very good deal, opp. Makro on the beach) 2 brs/2 bths / 2 balconies 120 sq.m. 3rd Floor Lake View

Land on Palm Hills Golf 1.5 Rai - 2.400 sq.m. Located in Palm Village on main lake with great scenery For price and nego please contact

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

Best Buys

LAND

HOMES RENTALS Restaurant / Bar for Sale or Rent 3 prime buildable lots 800,000 B ea. mountain view lots near Banyan golf 2 story 2 br 2 ba mountain villa 2.9 m baht ………..Many Properties Available……….. Thai 087-882-4453 ENG 089-911-6536 Email : sumvee@gmail.com

Apartment 45 m² for long term rent

www.learningcentre.co.th Email: info@learningcentre co.th

CONDO FOR RENT 85m2, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, European style furnishing, living room, kitchen, 8th floor 18,000 THB per month 45m2, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, fully furnished, 8th floor 10,000 THB per month

Contact : Tel. 0819812997 or 090 9213547 email at debbelt2011@gmail.com

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

Hua Hin Highland, land sea view panorama. Fully furnished. 1 bedroom AC, 1 bathroom, livingroom, kitchen, Cable TV. And 25 m² living terrace. 5km to city.

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

INVESTORS WANTED for new project in Cha-Am 7 rai approx, close to beach, excellent location for residential development, easy access to Cha-am town ( 1 rai = 1600sqm )

For more details contact Rote mob: 0849262828 Email: rote_taget@hotmail.com divers3388@gmail.com

(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)

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

January 2014

An Affordable Massage Alternative Chiang Kham Massage & Spa

on two treatments for me; foot spa @THB 200 (I am not sure if they looked at my feet and decided I needed it..) and hot stone body massage @ THB 500 one hour.

ecently we tested a more affordable massage alternative in town at a place called Chiang Kham Massage & Spa. They are located opposite Heaven’s kitchen on Chomsin Road close to the Fishing pier. The wonderfully friendly staff at the spa decided

CICADIAN RHYTHM

n this issue we talk about the Circadian Rhythm (or biological clock). Some of you might have heard about it, some might not. Let’s see the relationship of each time period during the day and organs in our body and how should be behave during each of period to make us healthy. We will start from the early morning until late evening.

Sufficient oxygen is necessary, especially for the brain. If the brain does not get sufficient oxygen, it will affect memory in the long term. The period from 4.00 – 5.00 a.m. is the period that body temperature is at it’s lowest point. We should have warmth and avoid low temperatures. This is the most suitable period to wake up to get some fresh air and exercise to further improve lung efficiency. Those who have breathing or lung problems, especially those who have asthma, should be careful because symptoms could occur easily during this period. 5.00 – 7.00 a.m. is the period of the colon which when our body will excrete waste and also produce the cortisol hormone that makes the body to more

The owner of Chiang Kham was nice enough to ask me how well I could tolerate heat. Because I am one of those people-pleasers who will say ‘OK’ whilst thinking they’ll I was not really sure what the foot spa was all burn holes in my back, I said I would about but I thinking about some sort of horrible be OK with anything. skin scraping that could possibly hurt. How wrong I was, the foot spa consisted of foot As usual my very over active brain cleaning and after that a special skin exfoliating was imaging things. The stones cream was painted onto my feet then sealed were very hot but instead of laying with cotton wool and then you soak your feet. them on my back, they used the stones to massage. They remained Not painful at all but very relaxing. After the in constant motion, although I am emulation has some time to permeate the dead not sure how the poor masseuse skin, my feet were dried off and some very gentle managed to hold onto them. The scraping with pumice removed it all. Note I said stones are round with no rough all your dead skin, because I think the last time edges. The massage was great for my back that my feet were this soft I was a baby. I was amazed is often in pain from excessive computer use. how they managed to make my feet look nice. This massage is an ideal way to relax muscles, I could imagine putting on nice strappy heels. the warm stones also increase blood flow. This treatment is highly recommended and very affordable if you want your feet and heels to look I have to say that towards the end I started nice for the warm season. dozing off. To me this is always the sign of a good massage. After the massage my back was Next came the one hour hot stone body massage. pain free and I felt relaxed.

vigorous. We should drink water to stimulate the excretory system. The blood pressure will gradually increase from this period until nightfall. Those who have poor health may have some difficulty breathing while those who have asthma should be careful because the symptoms could occur easily during this period.

The Chiang Kham Massage does many types of massage; everything from Traditional Massage, Foot Massage, Oil massage as well as facials, body scrubs, pedicures and so on. For great service at great prices at a good location visit Chan Kham. Address 163/ Chomsin Road, Soi 55 (Opposite Heaven’s Kitchen) Hua Hin

which is the most important organ, pumping blood and nutrition to feed the whole body. Blood pressure is still increasing, so those who have heart disorders will sweat a lot and feel hot and humid.

01.00 – 03.00 p.m. is the period of the small intestine which digests and absorbs 7.00 – 9.00 a.m. is the period of the stomach nutrients. If you do not have sufficient lunch, because the body needs energy. We should have you will feel hungry and tormented during breakfast. Those who suffer from migraine, allergy, this period. and rheumatic disorders should be careful because 03.00 – 05.00 p.m. is the period of the symptoms could occur easily during this period. bladder which stores waste water from 9.00 – 11.00 a.m. is the period of the spleen and kidneys. Around 5 p.m. is the period that arteries pancreas. Spleen produces immunity for our body and muscles are strong, thus it is suitable to and also destroys deteriorated red blood cells while exercise. the Pancreas produces enzymes to help digestion in the small intestine. The body is very active during 05.00 – 07.00 p.m. is the period of the kidneys this period, thus it is suitable for working / doing which filter waste from blood and harmonise the body. Around 6.30 p.m. blood pressure will reach activities. its maximum. We should drink some water (but 11.00 a.m. – 01.00 p.m. is the period of the heart not cold water) and should not sleep during this

period because it would make us sleepless during the night. Have you ever behaved yourselves according to these periods? For those who have not, you can try to adapt this biological time table to your life style. Even if you cannot adopt completely, just adapting to some time periods is still good. Next issue we will look at the rest of the time periods. Article Courtesy of Healthlab

THE THAI SPA INDUSTRY: AIMING TO BECOMING THE GLOBAL WORLD LEADER

hai spa services are internationally recognised, thanks to the hard work and successful perceptions of customer satisfaction to provide improved services and business at international standards to clients from around the world. The Thai Spa Association (TSA) was founded a decade ago, with the objective to promote and preserve the well-being of the spa industry and safety for its consumers.

Phattiraporn Khiewsanun, TSA vice president, said that to celebrate its 10th anniversary this year, the association wants to continue what it has been doing -- educating therapists and entrepreneurs alike, as well those interested, so as to push Thai spa to become the leader of global spa businesses. institutions to the Commerce and Foreign Affairs Ministries when it comes to international trade. Apart from spa education, the association focuses on standards and innovation to attract a To welcome the ASEAN Economic Community wider international clientele and yet maintain the (AEC) in 2015, Phattiraporn said the association is a main player in pushing Thai spas to their authenticity of Thainess in Thai spa services. outstanding status in the region, and beyond. Several government agencies play a part in promoting Thai spas and the work of the “The Thai Spa Association was assigned to draft association, starting from the Ministry of Education documents and meet with related agencies in all dealing with spa courses taught at educational 10 ASEAN countries. Spa businesses in some

countries are already mature, as in Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, while Myanmar and Vietnam have just entered the business and say they want Thailand to lead,” said Phattiraporn.

“Our fundamental courses are outstanding. They include anatomy, physiology and body massage. These subjects are very popular. We don’t teach only these. Our students get to take related courses such as spa development and management. Those coming here don’t have to be masseuses or therapists. They may be entrepreneurs and want to open a spa business,” Krod said.

In Thailand, Phattiraporn said there are more than 100 schools, institutions, colleges and universities teaching spa businesses throughout the country. Some courses are offered within tourism industry and hospitality management subjects. Courses are at the certificate level -- giving Located in Bangkok, Chiva-Som Academy recognition for attendance and professional offers spa courses to the general public and accomplishment.

to its future staff serving its original business, Seventy per cent of the students are Thai, while the ‘Chiva-Som International Health Resort’ in foreign students come from a diversity of countries upscale Hua Hin. -- the Philippines, India, the Middle East and Kenya. After its success in Hua Hin, Chiva-Som founder Krod said some of them only fly to the country Boonchu Rojanastien thought if the company to take courses and return home to open spa wanted to expand its business in Thailand or businesses. That is why the school was chosen overseas, it should have its own training centre so a decade ago to be founded in the capital where travel is convenient. as not to depend on others. Krod Rojanastien, sales and marketing manager of Chiva-Som Academy, said what makes his institution different than others is its foundational approach to classes.

In Thailand, the services part of the spa business grows continuously at 6-10 per cent annually. The Thai Spa Association said that in 2013, it was expected to generate Bt18 billion, exclusive of spa products and related wellness tourism.

January 2014

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