+ www.aliseaboutiquehotel.com info@aliseaboutiquehotel.com
BED AND BIKE, EXPERIENCE KRABI FROM ANOTHER ANGLE.
2 different trips to choose from: Alisea - Ao Nam Mao - Klong Muang beach
Try some of the side roads to explore local life and many secluded beaches total distance: 25-40Km This trip is over locals roads so there are many spots to stop for a meal www.krabi-magazine.com 4 +66 916476216, JM.CONASIAM@gmail.com
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NOW OPEN - LAYANA RESORT & LINGER LONGER SPA’S NEW WELLNESS ZONE
Koh Lanta, Thailand – 18 November 2015 - At Layana Resort & Spa we have always been forward-thinking about what it takes to create a true island escape, where nature, luxury, rest and relaxation create an authentic “Pause in Time” for our guests. To extend our commitment to the luxury of time and rejuvenation power of an island holiday, we took opportunity during our low season to completely re-design our wellness facilities and resort experience. It’s with great pride that Layana Resort & Spa announces our new Wellness Zone was completed on schedule and is now open, just as the famous winter high season arrives in Koh Lanta. Guests at the Layana Resort and the award-winning Linger Longer Spa can expect a completely new experience at our “Wellness Zone.” After and invigorating workout in our new gym facilities with separate lockers or pre/post a soothing massage experience, guests can relax and refresh at the new wellness pool. The half Olympic size lap pool is perfect for exercise sessions or just lounging and enjoying healthy refreshments from the brand new Healthy Juice Bar. If you savor a light and healthy snack, a freshly squeezed juice or an energy boosting smoothie, our new juice bar is ready to create a healthy pick-me-up during your wellness time. As with all Layana dining options, the freshest and healthiest local and imported ingredients will be skillfully prepared for your enjoyment. For those who rise with the sun, mornings can now be spent with specially designed yoga or meditation sessions overlooking the new pool and famous gardens from our newly added yoga platform. However you define your “Wellness” experience, Layana Resort & Linger Longer Spa aims to provide the most complete wellness sanctuary in Southern Thailand. We look forward to sharing these impressive changes with our loyal returning guests, and welcoming new faces to our Koh Lanta paradise. For reservations kindly call + 66(0) 7560 7100, or visit us online at http://www. layanaresort.com. Welcome to a new level of luxury.
Layana Resort & Spa, Koh Lanta Yai Layana Resort & Spa is nestled on Koh Lanta Yai Island in Mu Koh Lanta National Park. The park is a marine archipelago, home to verdant tropical rainforests and undersea kingdoms of colorful coral rich in natural marine diversity. The resort enjoys a spectacular beachfront location on three kilometers of white sandy beach, situated about two hours south of Krabi International Airport. Environmentally-conscious design throughout the property results in a simple and elegant Thai atmosphere; alfresco architecture combining contemporary design to provide an open, cool and natural feel. MBK Hotel and Tourism Co., Ltd., a member of the MBK PLC Group, has a vision to create a dynamic new standard for management and services in the hotel industry with the aim to achieve the highest public recognition in every potential area, both domestically and internationally.
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WWW.LAYANARESORT.COM Tel: + 66(0) 75 607 100
Fax: + 66(0) 75 607 199
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Email: resa@layanaresort.com
BEACHFRONT DINING AT BELLINI ITALIAN & INTERNATIONAL CUISINE
 For a beachfront location that will make you linger by the water all night long, pull up a chair at Bellini restaurant. Specializing in authentic Italian cuisine, Bellini has perfected a delicious menu of handmade pastas, gourmet pizza as well as taking full advantage of its seaside locale with delicious seafood specialties and international highlights. Bellini is open for lunch and dinner from 11:00hrs until 22:30hrs  Enjoy live music with our duo band from 17:30hrs until 21:30hrs every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday evenings
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KRABI magazine
EDITOR -Nezha Ouçama editor@krabi-magazine.com - 098-698-5690 MANAGING DIRECTOR - Joe Alonzo joe@krabi-magazine.com - 085 069 4752 PRESIDENT- Pamela Huxley pamela@krabi-magazine.com - 093 658 4415 FINANCE & ACCOUNTING - Punch Whitfield punch@krabi-magazine.com - 089 287 0163 OPERATIONS MANAGER- Pimpimol Wongkajorn “Mem” info@krabi-magazine.com - 093 658 4415 CREATIVE DIRECTOR - Paul Stretton paul@krabi-magazine.com - 093 658 4415 GRAPHIC DESIGNER - Bad Bull info@krabi-magazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Zina Docto Dr Daranee Khwaungaew Tykapics Peter Paka Show Park Aleshka Nazarova Exotic Property Nikki Thompson Fabrice Vincent
Published by: KitDee Media & Design Co., Ltd Tel: 093 658 4415 info@krabi-magazine.com www.krabi-magazine.com online.krabi-magazine.com Please send submissions and subscription inquiries to info@krabi-magazine.com Krabi Magazine is published and produced by KitDee Media & Design Company Limited and is protected by Copyright. No parts of this publication can be used or reproduced in any form – printed, electronic, photocopy or otherwise – without the written permission of the publishers. The publisher reserves the right to refuse to publish adverts, texts or advertising features. Advertising terms and conditions are to be obtained at: info@krabi-magazine.com
LETTER FROM THE
EDITOR MAKE MERRY IN KRABI If you are in Krabi during the Christmas period, be prepared to have a great time. There are plenty of things going on to make you feel at home or, quite the opposite, help you break your winter holidays habits. How about replacing the traditional turkey and the hot wine near the open fire of your living room with a fun filled, chilled out day on a half day cruise enjoying sailing, snorkeling, cliff jumping and sipping cocktails while watching the sunset. The world famous Thai cuisine is well-known for being refined and very tasty, so if you feel like you had too much of it and you need to give your body a break, try a very effective detox cleanse and go fully raw. After yuletide celebrations, this should be a good thing to consider. Learn more about this healthy way of life thanks to Cooper’s advices and recipes. More than being a great holiday’s destination, Krabi is one of the most romantic spots to get married with its amazing landscapes and mystic atmosphere. So, if you are planning on getting married right here in Krabi, read about all the processes it requires. Once the legal aspect is taken care of, enjoy one of the best moments of your life with your beloved one. In Thailand, New Year is a public holiday and Thai people are more than happy to join in when it comes to having fun and hosting a celebration. All the major resorts, restaurants, clubs and bars really go to town and a great time is had by all. So make sure you make the most of your time here in Krabi. We are keen to thank all the advertisers that support Krabi Magazine, so if you visit one of the venues that you read about please mention that you saw their advertisement in our magazine.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
DISCLAIMER
While great care has been taken in the receipt and handling of material, production and accuracy in this magazine, the publisher will not accept any responsibility for any errors, loss or omissions which may occur. The information and stories published are those of the writers and contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or the editor. The description of properties, the contents, whereabouts and price are given in this magazine as a guide only. Please request further details from the advertiser and seek legal advice before entering into any contract to purchase. All information and prices were correct at the time of going to press.
Cover by. KitDee Media Co., Ltd
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WHAT’S INSIDE. P. 26
P. 38
P. 52
FEATURES.
CULTURE.
GENERAL.
P.22 RAW DIET: Learn how to cleanse your body
P.26 THAI CUSTOMS: Show absolute respect
P.20 KRABI’S TREASURES: Dive in to the Emerald Pool
P.38 CORAL OR COAL: Become eco-aware
P.46 THAI FRUITS: A taste of heaven
P.52 WEDDINGS IN THAILAND: A magic lifetime commitment
P.48 LONG LIVE THE KING: Celebrate the Father of the Nation
P.56 NIGHTLIFE SECTION: Discover Ao Nang by night
P.50 THAI TALK: Get ready
P.60 CHRISTMAS IN KRABI A sunny way to make merry
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P.44 GLOBE TROTTERS: A four wheels’ dream
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December | 2015
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WINDOW ON KRABI
BEACHES.
AO NANG BEACH at 20km from Krabi Town is the most developed of Krabi’s beaches; a long stretch of white sand with limestone karsts as a backdrop. All of your accommodation, shopping and service needs are found here. This is the hub from which to plan your trip at sea and to the nearby islands on a typical longtail boat. NOPPHARAT THARA BEACH just around the corner from Ao Nang, is 3km long yet still undeveloped, with only a few resorts and bars. Attractive because of its natural setting, this is where local youngsters and families gather at sunset and on weekends with picnics. Savour some local Muslim snacks at the beach stalls, or fill yourself with seafood in the local restaurants at the very end of the beach, near the Noppharat Thara National Park headquarters. At low tide, walk out together with millions of small crabs on the sandy pathways to the small islands near the beach. KLONG MUANG BEACH is a further 20km away from Ao Nang; it is the up-market side of Krabi, the place to be if you are after a peaceful holiday. Catering to families and
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couples, it is here that you really get that well deserved repose, surrounded by pristine nature. RAILAY AND TONSAI BEACHES are split and separated from Krabi and Ao Nang by monumental limestone mountains. Railay has two sides, east and west, and its settings are simply marvelous: crystal clear waters, pure sandy beaches, lush mountains, and rocky islands emerging from the sea. Both beaches are known the world over for their majestic climbing routes. They can only be reached by boat, a 15-minute ride from Ao Nang or 30 minutes from Krabi Town. Enjoy a cocktail i n one of the beach bars, visit the Phranang Cave, challenge yourself on a rock climbing or cliff jumping course (yes, into the sea!), hike the limestone massif to a lagoon and a viewpoint, or simply chill out. KOH LANTA BEACHES have a wide selection of resorts for all tastes and pockets. Lanta Yai island has long stretches of gleaming
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white sandy beaches and shallow emerald waters. Lined with tropical vegetation, a private spot is never more than a short walk away on a southern beach at Lanta Yai.
You know those postcards with people walking on a sandy isthmus that connects to another island? Yep, here the second island is Koh Tub and is only accessible at low tide.
TUBKAEK BEACH Another real place to hide away; long, clean and powerful, the area boasts breathtaking views over the Koh Hong archipelago and provides for wonderfully charming sunsets. From Tubkeak beach you can venture inside the National Park and try the nature trail to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Krabi.
THE KOH HONG This island archipelago demands everyone’s attention as it is one of the highlight of Krabi province. The Archipelago, a group of limestone islands with many a hidden caves and lagoons make it perfect for snorkeling and exploration. Make sure you stop at Lading island after Koh Hong as it is much less visited and sports a blend of both lush jungle and tropical waters.
ISLANDS.
KOH PODA This is the iconic island of Krabi and the first and most dramatic one you seem from Ao Nang beach. Hop on a longtail boat the local wooden boats with their picturesque prow and sail away surrounded by turquoise waters.
KOH PHI PHI Private bays, limestone cliffs, waters rich in marine life and caves where swallow’s nests are harvested are all here on the island that Leonardo Di Caprio once rolled his hot bod in while filming “The beach” at the now iconic Maya Bay.
KOH GAI This should be next on your list as it is right next to Koh Poda. From the right angle when passing Chicken Island (Koh Gai) you can catch a glimpse of a chickens neck and head, some would argue more like that of a turkey but it’s up to you.
KOH JUM & KOH SIBOYA Both are unspoiled tropical hide-aways that have a unique atmosphere. Tune in to the slow culture here, imbibe the peace, and recharge your batteries with the soundtrack of lapping waves.
KOH LANTA the developing island at the southern end of the province known for its prime sunset viewing spots , heaps of activities, and glimpses into sea gypsy life, is where you will meet nature and tradition. It’s also a National Park area that comprises many different islands surrounded by coral reefs, such as Koh Ngai, Koh Mook and the remote Koh Rok.
JUNGLE AREAS.
LIMESTONE MOUNTAINS or karsts characterize most of the inland Krabi area, the most spectacular being the crags of Sai Tai. Susaan Hoi is a 40 million year-old seashell cemetery; once a large swamp where freshwater crustaceans proliferated, today it’s home to 40 centimeter thick, shell encrusted limestone slabs, a geological uniqueness not far from Ao Nang. KHAO PHANOM BENCHA NATIONAL PARK at 20km from Krabi Town, comprises waterfalls, streams, lush forests and caves. It is home to all kind of flora and wildlife and to the highest mountain in the region from which it takes the name. One of the features of the park is Huay Toh Waterfall where water runs down onto several huge pools that you can swim in. TARNBOK KHORANEE NATIONAL PARK in the north of the region, consists of limestone mountains, verdant tropical forest, caves and beautiful islands. It is well known for its different species of trees growing around a large natural crystal clear pool, and for the hundreds of birds’ species. SA MORAKOT, THE EMERALD POOL is a natural wonder: a pond of turquoise water with an average temperature of 30-40C, fed by a hot spring in the middle of the jungle. HOT SPRINGS Hot Springs of Klong Thom, natural Jacuzzis that melt away tensions and relieve body and mind with the mineral enriched waters falling into rocky ponds.
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NEWS
STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS Lucasfilm and visionary director J.J. Abrams join forces to take you back again to a galaxy far, far away as Star Wars returns to the big screen with Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The film stars Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong’o, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew and Max Von Sydow. Kathleen Kennedy, J.J. Abrams and Bryan Burk are producing with Tommy Harper and Jason McGatlin serving as executive producers. The screenplay is by Lawrence Kasdan & J.J. Abrams and Michael Arndt.
BANGKOK’S ILLUMINATIONS
among many others. Other sponsors include Thai Beverage, Kasikornbank, True Corp and Coca-Cola (Thailand).
The EM District attracts about 100,000 Bangkok’s first international lighting visitors daily and the lighting festival is festival takes place around two of the expected to increase traffic in the area largest shopping malls on Sukhumvit by 20%. road over the Christmas and New Year period with the expectation of attracting more than five million shoppers. The EM District, comprising The Emporium and The EmQuartier, in conjunction with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) organized “The EM District Presents: Bangkok Illumination 2015,” which will be held until January 3rd .
Filming began in April 2014 in Abu Dhabi and Iceland, with principal photography also taking place in Ireland and Pinewood Studios in England. Disney has backed the film with an extensive marketing campaign, and it is expected to break box office records with projected profits exceeding 1 billion USD. The Force Awakens will be released in Bangkok’s movie theatres (2D, 3D, and IMAX 3D) on December 18th,more than ten years following the release of the franchise’s last installment, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith.
The event transformed the EM District and Sukhumvit road into a lighting art exhibition with stunning displays of more than forty objects by both Thai and foreign artists, covering over one million square metres of space divided into fourteen major areas between Sukhumvit Road Soi 24 and 31. Participating artists include Digital Arti, Eiji Sumi, Frameless Collective, Duck Unit and Keep Your Eyes On
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BIKE FOR DAD A total of 607,909 people signed up to take part in the “Bike for Dad” cycling event during the nine-day registration period. The cycling celebration scheduled for December 11th is planned to mark His Majesty the King’s 88th birthday, which is on December 5th. A total of 498,105 people registered in the provinces, 99,999 in Bangkok and another 9,805 from overseas. Nakhon Ratchasima had the highest number of registered bikers outside the capital, with 29,766, followed by Sakon Nakhon (17,865), Kanchanaburi (14,113), Songkhla (12,684) and Si Sa Ket (12,348). Bangkok Post
CHRISTMAS EVE DAZZLERS AT SOFITEL KRABI PHOKEETHRA GOLF & SPA RESORT Celebrate the festive season in style at Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort with memorable gourmet dining and vibrant entertainment. Krabi’s renowned luxury resort combines French excellence with gracious Thai hospitality for a unique cultural experience. Our festive feast on Christmas Eve will include traditional European Christmas dishes, Thai specialties, our chefs’ signature dishes and fabulous cocktails created for the occasion. Carol singing and live entertainment will add to the magical ambience and make Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort the perfect choice for Christmas celebrations with your family. Christmas in the poolside garden: Adult: THB 2,000++ Children (5 – 11 years old): THB 1,000 Christmas Eve dining from 6.30 p.m. onwards For more information and reservation, please call +66 (0) 75 627 800 or write us an email to H6184-RE@SOFITEL. COM .
Sofitel, World Class Hotels & French Elegance Sofitel is the only French luxury hotel brand with a presence on five continents with 120 addresses, in almost 40 countries (more than 30,000 rooms). Sofitel offers contemporary hotels and resorts adapted to today’s more demanding and more versatile consumers who expect and appreciate beauty, quality and excellence. Whether situated in the heart of a major city like Paris, London, New York, Shanghai or Beijing, or nestled away in a country landscape in Morocco, Egypt, French Polynesia or Thailand, each Sofitel property offers a genuine experience of the French “art de vivre” December | 2015
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KRABI ACTIVITES Thai Cooking CLasses at Ao Nang Thai Cookery School
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling at Scuba Addicts
High in the sky at Treetop Adventure Park
If you want to take home some techniques of the famous thai cuisine you must stop off at Ao Nang Thai Cookery School, opened since 2001.
Scuba Diving in Krabi is how diving is meant to be: Safe, Fun and Relaxed. Visibility is generally very good (1235m), the water is warm (28-30 degrees), minimal equipment is needed and there is always something new to see.
No other activity in Krabi will give you such a burst of adrenaline and excitement as the Tree Top Adventure Park series of aerial rides through a dense jungle canopy and piercing limestone cliffs. You will experience exciting and thrilling sensations into nature.
Learn how to cook Royal Thai Cuisine with experienced chefs who will take you step by step through each recipe with the exotic herbs and spices that make Thai cuisine one of the world’s culinary delights. One of the main instructor SOW, whom has 10 years cooking and culinary experience in some of Thailand’s five star hotel and restaurants. At Ao Nang Thai Cookery School, you will be able to learn by choosing your own dishes to cook. Back home, impress your friends with green Thai curry fragrant soups or stir fried chicken with cashew nuts, spring rolls, chicken satay, pad thai and many more recipes. When the cooking is all over you can sit and enjoy all of your hard work. Ao Nang Thai Cookery School is just the thing you need when you want a break from the beach and discover the authentic thai culture.
Scuba Addicts Dive Centre offers diving and snorkeling adventures for all ages and abilities, that are tailored to suit your individual or group needs. Their aim is to make your scuba diving holiday in Ao Nang fun and memorable by discovering famous dive sites such as Phi Phi Islands, the King Cruiser Wreck/Shark Point Marine Sanctuary and the clear, secluded waters of numerous local islands of Krabi. They also offer night dives, cavern diving and Live aboard trips to the Similan Islands. Phone number : +66 (0) 75 637 394 www.scuba-addicts.com
This safe adventure offers to children and adults adventurers an assortment of games such as rope bridges, tarzan swings, flying skateboards, a tight ropewalk and giant zip lines. You can make your experience extreme or relaxing you just have to tell your guide how you want to play it, it is up to you. The half-day course at Tree Top Adventure Park includes fruits, refreshments, lunch, brand new challenges such as via ferrata, air biking and many more. Open everyday 9am-5pm Phone number : + 66 (0) 84 310 7600 www.treetopadventurepark.com
Phone number : +66 (0) 81 415 9358 / +66 (0) 75 695 478 www.aonangthaicookeryschool.com
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Catch some record setting monsters at Exotic Fishing Thailand
Enjoy an amazing unique show at Blue Dragon Cabaret
Improve your breathing and body at Marina’s yoga
Looking to hook massive fresh water species? Then look no further than Exotic Fishing Thailand situated in beautiful Phang Nga. You will find more than sixty species such as Jau Catfish, Vundu Catfish, Piraiba Catfish, Goonch, Chinese Black Carp, Yellow Cheek Carp, and dozens of others. Exotic Fishing Thailand offers a special stocking program to ensure that their fishing only gets better and more interesting.
Blue Dragon Cabaret Show gives you one of the warmest welcomes you can find in the land of smiles and does so in many different languages. Thailand is well known for ladyboys and Blue Dragon shows them doing what they love the most: dressing up and performing. Some of these ‘ladies’ have features that would make women jealous. The performers are keen to entertain and put on a good show and the best way to enjoy it is to don your imaginary feather boa and embrace their world of glitz, glamour and over-the-top drama.
If you want to have a break from the beach and try another way to enjoy your holidays and relax, take a deep breath and go to Marina Yoga.
If you want to enjoy an amazing show with beautiful costumes, fun dancing, great lip syncing, the Blue Dragon Cabaret show is a must see with very professional Lady Boys.
Yoga practice is the best way to workout, tone your muscles, get you in shape fast and also develop your whole body by putting the emphasis on awareness and control. The incorporation of mind and body helps to lower both physical and mental stress. Yoga is a unique exercise that can be practiced by anyone, regardless of age, strength, or flexibility.
The lake is over 25 rai (nearly 10 acres) and is one of the largest fisheries in southern Thailand. At Exotic Fishing Thailand, they offer fishing packages for all levels. Most of clients stay for a few days to have the chance to catch as many species of fish as possible. You will not be disappointed with the huge variety of fish stocked in this beautiful pond. It is also possible to enjoy a nice and reasonable priced meal or a real Thai cooking class at the Mountain View Restaurant. Exotic Fishing Thailand is only a short one hour drive from downtown Ao Nang. Open Monday-Friday 9am-6pm Phone number: (+66) 088-379-9377 www.exoticfishingthailand.com November | 2015
Blue Dragon is the first cabaret show in Krabi, very entertaining to watch, located in Ao Nang’s Center Point on the third floor. Three shows are scheduled every nights, at 8 pm, 9.30 pm and 11 pm and each one of them lasts one hour. If you go before and between the shows you may have the chance to take photos with the transgender performers trying to bring in more customers by parading on the sidewalk. Phone number: + 66 (0) 99 561 5684 www.bluedragoncabaret.com
Marina Yoga offers a systematic and flexible approach to yoga that will suit all your needs. The practice integrates the use of postures (Asana), breathing (Pranayama), relaxation (Shavasana), meditation (Dhana) to relieve pain, prevent injuries, and promote a general well-being.
At Marina Yoga, you can say goodbye to your aches and pains. You will gain energy instead of losing it and at the end of the class you will feel amazing and definitely want to come back. Phone number : +66 (0)87-898-1506 www.marinayoga.com
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THE GIFT OF HEALTH THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
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ecember is an incredible month. It’s the month that has been illuminated for hundreds of years and in many cases thousands of years as the month of religious and cultural celebration and festivity. Holiday goers spanning the globe are celebrating Hanukkah,Winter Solstice, Pancha Ganapati, Bodhi, Christmas, Kwanzaa and more during the month of December. Many too, take this month as the time to travel away from their frigged homelands and venture to travel towards tropical destinations to ward off much more than frost bite. Some want to curb the extra pounds that seem to culminate as they identify with nature and add poundage to the waistline as part of winter hibernation. Individuals wearing layers of clothing for months at a time and barely seeing their paling skin seem to justify avoiding physical movement and welcome warm and rich comfort foods. As the months escalate, so do the numbers on the scale, only to leave one’s self having the moody blues.This warrants the need to run from the ever looming depression that many find as Mr. Humbug rears his ugly head during the chill and often time’s, the gloom of winter. This can be a dismal time of year even for the most enthusiastic. As a health minister, I serve many clients specifically during the winter months who find themselves with lack of motivation, enthusiasm, suffer critical thoughts, depressed emotions and lower energy levels; simply having lost the luster of living. I encourage them in the fact that this is not an uncommon occurrence and that many, if not most people, experience many of these aforementioned from one extreme to the other. Too, that it is scientifically proven that as the weather cools and we see less sunlight, our bodies make physiological changes and there is no need to fear for this season, too shall pass. Many who baulk the holiday blues have chosen to forego the hustle and bustle and make their way to the tropical side of Thailand, namely Krabi. They have said ‘no’ to giving loads of gifts that may never be appreciated, to giving
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a memory making gift to themselves, maybe family or a few select friends. They find themselves during this holiday season exposed to warm weather, friendly Thai smiles and plenty of beaches to choose from to soak in the sun. Most are not aware that when they come to the ‘land of smiles’ they will still have opportunity to enjoy a festive party; Thai style. Many of the hotels and resorts offer holiday parties for their guests in December. They pull out all the stops to prepare lavish buffets with plenty of foreign and Thai food, a cornucopia of desserts and pastries, as well as fantastic entertainment; all with Thai flare. Thus, providing you a cultural experience that will never be forgotten.
The feelings of despair will begin to lift once you have felt the warm sand under your feet and the tropical heat snuggles gently against your skin. You may reflect on how only days or weeks earlier you were longing desperately to get out of the doldrums. Your physical environment has changed and suddenly you feel energized and revived. But why stop there? There are other aspects of your health and emotional well-being that can be tapped into during your holiday extravaganza; serving. You may ask, “what does serving have to do with my emotional well-being”? Therapist discovered that patients who had been in counseling for months and years made a huge turnaround through serving. They found that their spirits were lifted, they discovered a new outlook on life and even their physical health began to flourish. Their patients began to embrace personal purpose, which in turn, motivated them to begin to care for their physical health. In addition to their emotional health they found that their overall health and wellbeing was being healed by simply, serving. Experience for yourself the joy, “that it is better to give than to receive”. Here are only a
December | 2015
few suggestions that may be a perfect fit for you to experience during your tropical holiday. With a little imagination, you’re sure to create some of your own. *When visiting our lovely sea village take some time to pick up rubbish. As you stroll gazing upon the Andaman Sea, you can help to play a role in keeping our beaches clean and inviting *Although it’s not customary to tip nor are you expected to do so. A nice monetary gift will be sure to put a bright smile on your servers face. You may find this hard to believe as Thais dawn some of the most amazing smiles known to mankind. It’s no surprise that one of Thailand’s nicknames is the ‘land of smiles’ *Find a charitable organization to give to *Pay it forward with a random act of kindness *See a need and fill it. It’s funny how when you make yourself available to serve, the needs suddenly appear. Keep your eyes open; they are there
Zina is the founder of “i AM WOMAN”. Contact: www.iamwoman.fit or info@getjuicedforlife.com
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Crystal Clear
Among all the natural beauties in Krabi, the Emerald Pool is one of the unseen destinations that many Thais and foreigners would like to drop by. The Emerald Pool in Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve, also known as Crystal Pool (“Sa Morakot” in Thai), originates from a natural warm water stream in lowland of southern forest. It is a large natural pool that is filled with pure spring water at ambient temperature where you can enjoy a relaxing soak.
The Emerald Pool is 800 meters from the parking area and you can reach it thanks to a network of trails through the Khao Nor Chu Chi forest, so if you are making the trip, you should wear some comfortable walking shoes. The walk transports you to a lush, tropical jungle atmosphere, under trees for the most part, and the path is large and safe. There is another option that we highly recommended, a concrete raised walkway that goes over a wooden boardwalk through the woods and leads to amazing pools of fresh spring water that most tourists won’t see because they often take the short 800 meters walk. If you chose this path, you will see the amazing “Sra Gaew Pool”. Once you arrive at the Emerald Pond, you should continue up the hill and find the boardwalk on your left side. Keep walking another 400 meters and you will find the brightly colored Blue Pool, another must-see site in the reserve. Though the water looks magical and inviting, it is hot and surrounded by quicksand, so no bathing is allowed. You will pass by a series of clear mini-pools, waterfalls and streams and hundreds of species of tropical trees and plants. This area is also popular with birds as the forest is home to many rare species, including the endangered Gurney’s Pitta. The best time to visit is very early morning or late afternoon when the tour groups have left. Vendors selling Thai food and drinks can be found at the entrance to both sites until around 5.30 pm.
Location: Located in “Khao Pra - Bang Kram Wildlife Sanctuary” at Khlong Thom district of Krabi province. Getting there: The site is 55 kilometers from Krabi Town and 75 kilometers from Ao Nang. Take Highway Number 4 to Khlong Thom district and turn left to Route Number 4038 heading to Lam Hap Sub District. Looking for a guide post, the Emerald pool is located along the way. Open daily: From 8:30 am to 5 pm.
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RAWMAZING FOOD
If food is the culprit, food can be the answer. As we become mindful about what we eat, we can start to make choices that promote our health over illness. Food is consumed for nutrition but it is also consumed for pleasure. If we learn how to satisfy our pleasure receptors with healthy food, our lives improve.
Cooper Janos Horvath arrived in Krabi five years ago in order to start a new life. At first, he was here on holiday for three months and then he decided to settle. He found a job as a manager in the real estate industry and three years later, he quit his job to simply enjoy life through sports, travels, friends and food.
What are the building blocks that our bodies need to function? Enzymes, vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, protein, essential fats and fiber. These are all provided by our food and are involved in growth, repair and maintenance of the body.
Food became one of the most important thing of his life since two years ago he decided to go “fully raw”.
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Fully raw means feeling good enough about your perfect health to share the gift of life and health with others. At this moment in time, you may be searching
for health inspiration rather than giving it. The best way to describe what Cooper felt like when he went fully raw or adapt to a complete raw foods lifestyle is that he simply wants to jump on top of the world and yell, “I am free, I found happiness”. This is what it means to be fully raw, you want to give inspiration rather than search for it. A raw foods diet is made up of fresh, whole, unrefined, living, plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts and seeds. These are consumed in their natural state, without cooking or steaming.
www.krabi-magazine.com
Learning how to eat a raw food diet properly takes time, patience, and effort. Although there is a blueprint for doing it correctly, most people find it challenging to adopt the fully raw diet the first time out, unless they get professional guidance. It rarely occurs overnight and, in fact, can take years to accomplish. Because our taste buds have experienced the excitement of salt, sugar and spices, we may miss those tastes initially when they are no longer part of the daily diet. However, Cooper finds that the tradeoff for good health and longevity is worth it. Once the taste buds are no longer exposed each day to these “excitotoxins,� they once again develop an December | 2015
appreciation for the taste of sweet, fresh fruits and vegetables. To encourage people, he advises them to start the diet by drinking sweet smoothies, eating a lot of fruits and to slowly go greener with vegetables and seeds. According to Cooper, the best way to begin is by increasing the amount of raw food you eat, while decreasing the amount of cooked food. For example, you can replace cooked grains and milk (cereal, toast, etc.) for breakfast with seasonal fruits, such as watermelon, pineapple, melon and grapefruit. Later, a lunch made up of a sandwich (baked grains) and chips (cooked corn or
potatoes) can be replaced with another type of fruit or a banana/berry smoothie. Start the evening meal with fruit, and follow that with as much raw salad as you desire before committing to the cooked portion of dinner. Eventually, you can replace the evening cooked meal with a large salad made up of lots of leafy greens and some non-sweet fruits like tomatoes. Cooper’s life is now organized around the rhythm of his diet and he found a pretty good regular one. He always starts his day with a booster smoothie made of fresh fruits and/ or vegetables and seeds, followed by a cooked lunch and ends it with a dinner
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made of salad and green leaves. He maintains meat in his diet, but just enough to get the minerals that he needs. This diet allows him to save money, save time and keeps all the vitamins and enzymes that his body needs to digest and that intend to disappear with the cooking. In Krabi, it is not always easy to find all the aliments he needs to totally respect his diet, he manages to find fresh products in local markets and an organic farm, and frozen ones in Makro (mostly frozen fruits such as red berries and peaches to mix them with yoghurt or use them for smoothies). To complete his list he buys the rest on an online health food store called Good Karma, where we can find a lot of dried fruits, several types of nuts and seeds. Thanks to this diet, Cooper really enjoys being a cook and taking the time to make his own meals. Last summer he went back to his country of birth,
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Hungary, and took raw food and raw cakes classes with professionals. This is how he learned to make one of his favorite snacks, “the blissballs”. He kindly shared with us the recipe so you can bake them at home: The night before, soak Brazil nuts and pitted dates
in water to rehydrate them. The following day, put in a blender, the nuts, the dates, some cocoa powder, a pinch of salt, some chia seeds and a tablespoon of honey. Ground the whole of the ingredients until they turn into a thick mixing. Once it is done, make balls using teaspoons or your hands, drop them into ground cinnamon and coat completely. Cool and chill one hour in the freezer and enjoy your raw candy. “If cooking destroys the vital and essential nutrients that we need to stay healthy, eating our food raw does the opposite. It provides us with what we need for our health and wellbeing. I know from experience that when I am eating at least 80 percent raw, I have more energy, more mental focus, and all of the pesky things that irritate me on a daily basis, like acid reflux and my daily aches and pains, dissipate. I also know that I am feeding my body with what it needs to thrive, not just survive.”
For more information, you can contact Cooper on his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ coopertrainer?fref=ts www.krabi-magazine.com
290/19 Moo 2, Tumbon Ao Nang, Muang Krabi 81180 Tel: 081-2732-029 Fax: 075-695-134
December | 2015
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Customs of
The Head
Thai Dance
It’s believed to be the mot Traditional Thai dances can sacred part of the body so never be divided into three main touch a Thai person’s head ever. categories: Stop ruffling that little kid’s hair. 1.Khon, the most stylised form of Thai dance. 2.Lakhon, less formal than Khon and the dancers do not Sacred and revered. Even if it’s wear masks. a ruined, half destroyed statue 3.Fawn Thai, a form of “folkof the deity, treat it with the dance” accompanied by folk utmost respect and you will music of the province. shine in the eyes of the Thai. Common sense here, don’t Manohra dance is unique to the clamber up onto one or mimic south. It is a dance drama which a pose for a photo. Snap a shot presents the love story between respectfully and if possible, ask Prince Suthon and Kinnari a monk if it’s okay. Manohra, a half birdhalf-woman
Buddha
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Shoes
This ones easy, remove your shoes or sandals at any indoor space. When in doubt, look for other shoes at the doorway and follow suit. Resorts may be an exception, but absolutely take them off at a Wat (temple) and any Thai’s home.
Wai
A slight head bow and prayerlike gesture with the hands is the traditional greeting, thank you, sign of respect and goodbye. Wai-ing will certainly light upsome smiles of appreciation. www.krabi-magazine.com
Temples
Ladies, please cover your chests and shoulders, and wear bottoms that go past the knee. Women should never touch or hand anything directly to a monk. Anyone should donate some money if possible, to help maintain the temple. Again, use your common sense and you’ll be a star in Thailand.
of the most conservative when it comes to dressing. The predominantly Muslim population here in the South can take real offense to half naked bodies wandering into their shops and restaurants. You deserve that tan -we knowbut you can’t tan indoors anyway (at least not naturally).
ask for the best price, and take it from there. Keep calm and never loose your temper.
The King
The Thai Royal Family is revered and there can be no worse « faux pas » than to joke about the King or any Royal Family member. Some have actually been thrown in jail Thailand is an excellent place for making « uncivil remarks » about their beloved leader. It’s It’s one of the greatest ironies for bargains and haggling is serious business, so take note. of life that the one place in expected amongst customers Use common sense and you’ll Thailand with the best beaches and vendors. Remember to take be fine. and scorching sun is also one the « softly-softly » approach and don’t be aggressive. Smile, “LONG LIVE THE KING”
Dress
December | 2015
Haggling
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Changing lives, one smile at a time
T
his past month the newest resort in Krabi, The Dust Thani Krabi Beach Resort hosted an event to remember, an event to help change lives. Operation Smile is a worldwide organization changing daily since 1982, it has been in operation in Thailand since 1997 offering children born with cleft lips and cleft palates the chance to regain their intended smiles.
With over an estimated seven hundred children born with either a cleft lip or cleft palate in Thailand alone, it is an issue that needs addressing. For these unfortunate children born with the disfigurement, there are common cases of the individuals suffering from lack of self-confidence, ridicule at school and the work place and a general inability to be an active functioning member of the community. In as little as sixty minutes, this can all change for these children, and with surgical operations costing only an estimated 20,00025,000THB changing lives doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. The event hosted at The Dust Thani Krabi Beach Resort was a great success drawing in a great number of members from the local community as well as people from outside Krabi. One large group present was the Lamborghini Club from Bangkok who drove all this way to enjoy Krabi and also participate in the event. Merchandise was sold at the event, donations could be made to the organization and trips donated by The Dust Thani hotel group among other hotel chains were sold during the night. All of the proceeds from these sales were donated to Operation Smile and had a direct impact on changing lives and giving children the right and ability to smile fully. To get in touch with the organization visit their website: www.thailand.operationsmile.org
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www.krabi-magazine.com
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December | 2015
www.anandapools.com 084-022-9928 All major credit cards accepted
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CLOSE ENCOUNTERS WITH SEA URCHINS
By. Dr. Daranee Kwangaew Harper, MD at Wattanapat Medical Clinic One of the great things about vacationing in Krabi and its white sandy beaches and islands, are the variety of water activities that you can enjoy. Swimming, surfing, snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving and just playing in the water are a few of the fun things to try during your holiday here in Krabi. However there might be a down side, these fun activities put you in a new environment and sometimes in the path of some not so a little critters.
One of these that tourists frequently encounter is the Sea Urchin, which can also be called Sea Hedgehogs. They have a flattened to globe shaped body that is covered by long, sharp and pointy spines. They are found all around the world and are most often seen on the sea floor and among rocks and corals. They move slowly and feed themselves mostly on algae, putting them in a position to be stepped on by unwary tourists. Their first line of defense is their sharp spines, but closer to their bodies are groups of cells called “pedicellaria” that are able to inject tiny amounts of a mild venom when they touch any type of skin. The result of the venom is usually a painful stinging sensation much like the sting of a bee or a wasp. The pain can range from annoying to severe depending on the sensitivity of the person. The biggest problem is how to deal with being punctured by the spines. HOW TO TREAT SEA URCHINS WOUNDS YOURSELF Use tweezers to remove the spines that are in the wound, they are dark in color and easily seen but are also very fragile and break off readily, making them hard to handle. If any
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of the pedicellaria are present in the wound, they can be carefully removed by using shaving cream and gently scraping with a razor. Then, clean the wound with soap and water and flush the wound with lots of fresh water. Soaking the area in warm water bath as long as you can stand will sometimes help to ease the pain. It is important not to seal the wound with tape or bandages. Any embedded spines that you have not been able to fully remove will work their way out of the skin and lessen the chance for bacterial infections and the effect of the urchin’s venom. Soaking the wound in a slightly acid solution such as vinegar will help to dissolve the spines quickly. In fact, many locals swear by the use of warm lime juice or even urine to soak the wound. TIP: When doing any self-surgery, make sure your tweezers, razors and other tools are sterilized with heat or alcohol. After soaking the wound, it can be treated with a disinfecting medication such as betadine, hydrogen peroxide or an antibacterial ointment. Overnight, a vinegar soaked cloth can be placed against the wound and wrapped in a bit of plastic. Keep any dressing loose and don’t close off the wound in order to allow any remaining spines to work their way out of the skin. Tylenol, aspirin or ibuprofen are good choices to help manage the pain taking the recommended dosage every four to eight hours or until the symptoms lessen.
person has trouble breathing or any chest pain seek immediate medical help. If spines entered at or near a joint or if they have completely pierced the affected area like a hand, foot, finger or toe, see a doctor. If you are experiencing extreme pain or if the wound is located on a sensitive part. Get medical assistance if there are signs of infection (pus, redness, skin warmth or worsening pain). Last but not least, remember that prevention is usually superior to finding a cure, so wearing a pair of water shoes when swimming in an area where sea urchins are prevalent can help avoid potential injuries. Also, be aware of the location of hands, knees, legs and other body parts that could possibly come in contact with one of these spiny little critters and make your vacation safer.
WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL CARE As with any exposure to a mild venom, most people will experience mild pain and slight symptoms but a few individuals may have a severe reaction. If the www.krabi-magazine.com
December | 2015
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Nadivan Apartm a ents
SO I8
Exotiq Property
T O KRABI T OWN
PhuPimaan Resort
KITDEE MEDIA & DESIGN (Krabi Magazine)
CTOP Nice Nature Homes Nice Day Resort
SupsaengDao Resort
Cobra Show
Klong Haeng Mosque
THURSDAY MARKET
KLONG HAENG VILLAGE SATURDAY MARKET
Palm Paradise Emerald Gardens ChaWan Resort Pavilion Queen's Bay
Thai Village Resort
Andakiri villas The Hilltop Restaurant
POST OFFICE Fullmoon House
AO NANG VILLAGE
Emerald GYM Muay Thai Center
rant
The Lai Thai Condominium
estau le R Nood SOI 13
German Beer Gardern
Krabi Apartments
Ao Nang Whisky
1
I1
SO
Pams Pub
Glur Hostel
Boat
The Earth Cafe The D ive
Diver’s Inn
Ao Nang Haven GH Ao Nang Paradise Resort
Entertainment Bamboo Restaurants
First Standard Clinic Wattanapat Medical The Massaman Spaghetti House McDonalds
Ao Nang Villa
The
man her t Fis t Cafe’ Las Las The
Krabi Heritage Resort
Peace Laguna Resort
Somkiet Buri Resort Taj Palace
The Emerald Condominium Starbucks
Bernies
Walking Street BOATS TO PHRANANG & RAILAY BEACH
BEACH ROAD
Oceanmart
Ao Nang Mosque
Azzurra Restaurant Jeanette's Restaurant
CENTER POINT
Lae Lay Grill AONANG Restaurant VIEWPOINT
Umberto’s
t Theshi Hu Su
Italian Kitchen
Krabi Resort
Krabi Spesialisten Carnivore Steakhouse
Luna Bar
TOURIST POLICE
AO NANG Centara Anda Dhevi BOXING STADIUM Devanna place
WALKING STREET MARKET ON WEDNESDAY
Ao Nang Gardens
Sabai Resort
Tip Anda
Resort & Restourant
BOATS TO PHRANANG & RAILAY BEACH
Burger King
BOATS TO PHRANANG & RAILAY BEACH
SEAFOOD STREET
Ao Nang Beach Resort
T O K L ONG M UANG
ST.AGNES CHURCH
Mandawee
Natin Spicy Garden
T O KLONG MUANG
Connecting Krabi Tour
HOLD ME CLOSE Tsunami Memorial Sculpture
Ben Beach Bar
Foodies Deli & Catering
T O KRABI T OWN
U&P Bakery
Ao Nam Mao Pier
KRABI A QUARIUM
Andamana Beach Club
T O FOSSIL SHELL BEACH
WEDNESDAY & SUNDAY MARKET
T O KRABI T OWN
Jungle Village
AO NANG SCHOOL
MONDAY-TUESDAY FRIDAY MARKET
Ao Nang Travel & Tour
Vipa Resort
AO NAMMAO VILLAGE
Ao Nang Mountain View
Centara
Centara Grand Resort and Villas
BOATS TO PHRANANG KRABI & RAILAY BEACH
www.krabi-magazine.com
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NATIONAL PARK
NOPPHARAT THARA PIER, BOATS TO KOH LANTA, KOH PHI PHI, PHUKET
Hippy Bar
Sabai Residence
Ayudhya Suites
Everybody waits eagerly for the 31st of December and the 1st of January. It is the time when every person comes together to dance in the rhythm of New Years Eve and enjoy the festivities on their own. If you want to discover Asia on New Year holiday, Thailand is highly recommended.
December | 2015
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Dining guide / Krabi
CARNIVORE | STEAK & GRILL Soi Klong Haeng opposite Thai Village Resort, Ao Nang.
DA CARLA | ITALIAN & THAI Noppharathara Beach, inside Sabai Resort.
The quality of what this kitchen produces is extremely hard to beat - and the experience of the owner Gidi is evident. All main courses come with salad and a choice of six different potatoes dishes that include homemade french fries and mashed potatoes to die for.
As well as great thai food, this is the place for some realdeal homemade pasta just like it should be made. Great meat selection too, with quality steak and the freshest seafood you could hope to find.
Average price: 400-900+THB
Average price: 250+THB
What to Try: The “Carnivore” signature Steak
What to Try: The hand-filled ravioli
Free WiFi?: Yes
Free WiFi?: Yes
Opening Hours: Open daily from 3pm - 11pm.
Opening Hours: Daily from 7:30am - 2:30pm and 5:30pm - 9:30pm
Tel:+66 (0)75661061
Tel: +66 (0)75637791
Website: www.carnivore-thailand.com
Website: www.sabairesort.com
VENEZIA {SOFITEL | ITALIAN & SEAFOOD 200 Moo.3 Klong Muang Beach, Tambon Nongtalay, Muang, Krabi
U & P | HOME MADE BAKERY 401/4 Ao Nang, Krabi. End of Na Thai Road.
SOFITEL KRABI PHOKEETHRA GOLF & SPA RESORT’S Ristorante Venezia serves up gourmet cuisine featuring traditional Italin recipes, pizzas straight from the wood-fired oven and a large selection of wines from all over the globe.
One of the very few bakeries in town that bakes a good loaf of bread, U&P also have a great array - and display - of pastries, cakes, flatbreads, rolls, buns and even breadsticks to choose from.
Dining is available either indoors or on the outdoor terrace, al fresco style, with panoramic views of the ocean and tropical gardens.
Lunchtime is sorted with great selection of western and thai dishes.
Average price: 400++THB
What to Try: Any of the sandwiches
What to Try: Special selection of Rissoto’s by our Italian Chef
Free WiFi?: Yes
Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily from 6pm - 11pm Tel: +66 (0)75 627 800 Website: www.sofitel.com/6184
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Average Price: 100THB Opening Hours: 6am - 5pm Tel.: 081-8956670
www.krabi-magazine.com
Dining guide / Krabi
SUSHI HUT | JAPANESE, THAI & WESTERN Muang Krabi, Ao Nang Krabi, Krabi, 81000
UMBERTO’S ITALIAN KITCHEN| ITALIAN & SEAFOOD Located in the ground story of Alisea boutiquw hotel, Klong Heang Rd. Ao Nang
The Suhi Hut and Grill offers freshly prepared Sushi, Sashimi and other traditional Japanese cuisine, and a range of both thai and western food such as Australian steaks, American burgers and Thai curries. Come for a taste of Japan right here in Ao Nang.
Umberto’s Italian Kitchen is a newly opened restaurant in Ao Nang featuring a wide array of traditional Italian dishes complimented of fresh Andaman seafood and imported Australian steaks.
Average price: 200-450THB
Average Price: 200 - 600+
What to Try: The Nigiri rolls
What to Try: The Seafood pasta
Free WiFi?: Yes
Wifi: Yes
Opening Hours: Daily 11am-11pm
Opening Hours: 11am-10pm
Tel: 075-637-0305
Come and be amazed by the range of dishes.
Tel: 084 627 2991 Website: www.umbertorestaurant.com
KRABI VILLA CAFE | COFFEE & SANDWICHES Klong Muang Beach Road, opposite The Pelican condominium
AO NANG BUFFET | THAI & WESTERN 328, Moo 2, Tambol Aonang, Amphor Muang, Krabi
If you fancy more than a drink, there is an impressive array of sandwiches prepared with fresh bread as well as cakes and muffins. Even breakfast is catered for, with a selection of pastries as well as eggs, bacon and toast to start your day in style.
Our daily dinner buffet serves endless portions of BBQ, sushi, western favorites, and Thai cuisine. We have something for everyone, eat to your heart’s content for 459+THB, with kids always eating for free. Conveniently located next door to McDonald’s in Ao Nang with both indoor and outdoor seating available.
Average price: 100THB
What to Try: A little of everything
What to Try: Sandwiches, organic coffee
Free WiFi?: Yes
Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Tues - Sun from 9am - 5pm
December | 2015
Average Price: 459THB
Tel: +66 (0)75 600 141
Opening Hours: 6pm - 10pm
Website: www.krabivillacompany.com
Tel.:075 626888
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Dining guide / Krabi
DIVER’S INN | GERMAN & STEAKHOUSE Ao Nang, opposite the Siam Commercial Bank, Near Mc Donalds.
ANDAMANA BEACH CLUB | THAI-BEACH CLUB 328, Moo 2, Ao Nang,, Krabi Town 81000
Enjoy Australian Angus steaks, duck of chicken breasts or The Andamana Beach Club will impress anyone coming for a pork tenderloins. visit as it has been built with twisted bamboo stalks and large overhangings roofs. The beach club is truly a unique place to You can also enjoy traditional German wheat beers or a nice dine on those hot afternoons. imported wine like a German Riesling as you munch on tasty appetizers such as tempura shrimp or maybe a full plate of Open to public all year around and only a quick 5 minutes’ steamy spare ribs. drive to Ao Nang towards the Fossil Beach. Average price: 150 – 900+ THB
Average price: 180
What to Try: The Angus steaks
What to Try: Pad Thai
Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily from 11am - 11pm
Free WiFi?: Yes
Tel (Th/En): + 66 (0)75-637 297
Opening Hours: Daily from 10am-7pm
Tel (En/Ger): + 66 (0) 89 587 3533
Tel: 096-371-4656, 092-995-2039
TIP ANDA | THAI, SEAFOOD & FUSION
THE HILLTOP | FINE THAI 99 Moo 3, Ao Nang Krabi
79/45 Moo 3, Nopparat Thara Beach
The menu offers a wide selection of traditional Thai food, seafood and some international dishes including a specialty fusion Italian- Thai dish, the famous tom yum pizza. The chicken cashew nuts is particularly delicious and the steamed fish with lemon sauce is one of the finest Thai dishes you can find.
The Hilltop Restaurant is located on one of the most phenomenal perches for a panoramic sunset.
Average price: 100-300THB
Average price: 400-900+THB
What to Try: Tom Yam Pizza
What to Try: Southern Crab Curry, Duck The Hilltop Style
Free WiFi?: Yes
Free WiFi?: Yes
Opening Hours: Daily 7am - 10pm
Opening Hours: Daily from 11am - 12am
Tel: +66(0)75661179
Tel: +66 (0)75 637 195
Pamper yourselves with fresh Andaman lobsters, king prawns, crabs and giant oysters carefully chosen and prepared. Try new mouth-watering dishes such as ‘duck, the hilltop style’ and ‘southern curry with crabmeat & local herbs’’.
Website: www.thehilltopaonang.com
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www.krabi-magazine.com
Dining guide / Krabi
GECKO’S RESTAURANT | RUSTIC ITALIAN Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort on Klong Muong Beach
BELLINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT| ITALIAN & INTERNATIONAL The The Amari Vogue Beach Resort on Tubkeak beach
Treat your family and friends to a rustic home-style Italian feast at Gecko’s restaurant and enjoy choosing from fresh handmade pastas and zesty salads, delicious Italian selections from authentic home cooking to pizzas baked in a traditional wood burning oven with the true character of Italy.
Specializing in authentic Italian cuisine, the fare is designed, prepared, cooked and presented with creativity and skill. Bellini has perfected a delicious menu of handmade pastas, gourmet pizza and delicious seafood specialties
Average price: 190-420THB
Average Price: 300 - 800++THB
What to Try: VITELLO-TONATO
What to Try: Antipasti & Risotto arborio al zafferano e gamberoni
Free WiFi?: Yes
Wifi: Yes
Opening Hours: Daily 11am - 10:30pm
Opening Hours: 11am-11pm
Tel: +66 (0)75 628 000
Tel: 075-607-777
Website: www.dusitthanikrabi.com
Website: www.Amari.com
FOODIES RESTAURANT & DELI | FRENCH & THAI RUEN MAI | AUTHENTIC SOUTHERN THAI CUISINE 290/19 Moo 2, Tumbon Ao Nang Muang Krabi 81180
117 Moo 2, Sai Thai, Muang Krabi
Cooking various daily specialties from Waugh beef massaman Our daily dinner buffet serves endless portions of BBQ, sushi, curry to a robust and hearty ratatouille, you are sure to find western favorites, and Thai cuisine. We have something for everyone, eat to your heart’s content for 459+THB, with your senses tested. kids always eating for free. Conveniently located next door Foodies also caters private functions and parties, so if you to McDonald’s in Ao Nang with both indoor and outdoor seating available. have a special party give them a call. Average price: 120-500THB
Average price: 250THB
What to Try: lamb provincial
What to Try: burnt eggplant,
Free WiFi?: Yes
Free WiFi?: Yes
Opening Hours: Daily 11am-11pm
Opening Hours: Daily from 11am-2pm, 5pm-10pm
Tel: +66 (0) 81 273 2029 / +66 (0) 89 587 3533
Tel: +66 (0)75 621 387
December | 2015
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WHAT WILL KRABI’S FUTURE BE, CORAL OR COAL?
P
lans are underway for an 870 MW coal-fired power plant to be built in Nuea Khlong district, just a short drive outside of Krabi town, with a proposed seaport in the small fishing village of Ban Khlong Rua. The coal will be shipped across the Andaman Sea in 11,000 ton tankers from Australia, South Africa and Indonesia, passing by many of the popular tourist islands, including Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and Koh Jum, with over two million tons of coal imported every year. Krabi’s breathtaking beauty, rich biodiversity and unique history have all helped make it one of Thailand’s top tourist destinations, with around 2.3 million tourists visiting annually. As well as its pristine beaches and outstanding natural beauty, Krabi boasts at least two hundred species of fish and eighty species of coral.
38
Sadly, this could all soon be under threat from the proposed coal power plant. The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) plans to build the new coal plant on the site of an existing power plant in Nuea Khlong, currently generated by gas and oil but which was previously fueled by coal for thirty years up until 1995. The new plant will be over ten times larger than the former one and locals are very worried, particularly those who remember the damage caused by the previous coal plant – polluted waters, diminished fish stocks, damaged crops and uncommonly high concentrations of illnesses, especially respiratory diseases. Thailand’s Energy Minister has insisted the power plant must start generating electricity by 2019 and this would be the first of several more coal-fired
www.krabi-magazine.com
December | 2015
39
took place in Krabi town, where several hundred protesters marched from the crab monument to Thara Park, chanting ‘we don’t want coal’ and a live discussion with Thai PBS news channel took place.
power plants planned for Southern Thailand. Two plants are proposed for Songkhla, as well as plants in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Trang and Satun. EGAT aims to boost coal powered energy generation in Thailand from 14% to 23% by 2030. Although EGAT states that the coal plants will use modern cleaning technology to reduce pollution, many locals are not convinced that pollution levels will remain low enough to cause no damage to public health or the surrounding land and marine environments. Locals are also concerned that their livelihoods, namely tourism, fishing, and agriculture, will be badly affected. Residents and business owners from Krabi and its surrounding islands are increasingly protesting against the coal plant and the opposition movement has grown larger and more vocal over the last few months. A rally recently
Tourism leaders are pressing for Krabi to be a green city in order to keep attracting more and more tourists to the region. They are concerned that the government plans to make the Southern region of Thailand more industrial, and protestors argue that the South of Thailand should be conserved for tourism, not industry. Tourism in Krabi generates over nine million US Dollars a year, with many visitors returning year after year. If the coal plant goes ahead, it is highly likely that tourism will be very badly affected. Local people criticize the government’s current energy plan, which aims to increase the number of coal-fired power plants in Thailand, especially at a time when so many other countries are trying to move away from coal and adopt renewable energy instead. Several investment companies around the world have begun to announce their divestment from fossil fuels and G7 leaders recently agreed to phase out the use of coal by the end of the century. China, the world’s biggest burner of coal, has even started reducing its dependence on coal and is instead increasing its renewable energy. It seems that the majority of the world is now turning against coal at a time when Thailand chooses to embrace it. Protestors suggest the best option for Krabi would be to utilize a mixture of renewable energy namely wind, solar and biomass. However, EGAT claims that renewable
40
energy would be too expensive, despite the estimated cost of building, the proposed coal plant being two billion US Dollars. Opponents believe that, if the hidden costs of coal are taken into account, for example the damage to people’s health and the environment, and the loss of locals’ livelihoods, then renewable energy compares much more favorably cost-wise to coal. The costs of renewable energies have also decreased dramatically over the last decade and
look set to decrease even further over the coming years. The arguments stack up against Thailand embracing coal but which future will the government choose for the country? Will Krabi become a green city or end up losing its coral to coal?
You can follow and support the protest in English on the NoCoalLanta Facebook and Twitter pages and also sign the Avaaz petition ‘Don’t Let Our Corals Become Coal’. www.krabi-magazine.com
December | 2015
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Relax in a Natural Jacuzzi
R
elax in nature’s own hot tub in the South of Krabi province in Klong Thom district, around seventy kilometers from town and near the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve. Khlong Tom Hot Spring Waterfall is a natural hot stream flowing through the jungle with several small waterfalls. The water here comes from thermal springs, originating deep underground in volcanic chambers. Located in the jungle, this site features naturally hollowed-out ‘bathtubs’ in the smooth stone, filled to the brim with fresh running spring water at a pleasant 35-42 degrees. The heat and the stream of the pure mineral water in this waterfall are believed to have healing and restorative powers and the natural surroundings will bring a peacefulness and serenity. You can get rid of your aches
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and pains amid the stunning natural beauty as well. The mineral salts contained in the hot spring water are said to ease a number of ailments, including rheumatism, sciatica and skin complaints. Limestone rocks with steaming water will amaze you and some parts of the waterfall will provide ponds for you to dip yourself in and also let the natural spa rejuvenate your body. The effect of simply lazing in hot water up to your chin, watching the clouds go by certainly has positive health benefits. After a soak, take a refreshing dip in the cool river below. Due to the popularity of the springs, water from the source has also been diverted into larger man-made bathing pools on the same site and basic changing facilities are now available for visitors.
Originated from the lowland forest of Khao Nor Juji, supposedly Thailand’s last piece of lush forest, this hot spring is a must-see destination. Prepare to be impressed by spectrums of turquoise streams that shift in different light and time of the day. To experience the most intense emerald color, visiting at dawn or early in the morning is highly recommended. Location: Located at Amphur Klong Tom in Krabi Province, Thailand. Getting there: The site is 55 kilometers from Krabi Town and 75 kilometers from Ao Nang. Take Highway Number 4 to Khlong Thom district and turn left to Route Number 4038 heading to Lam Hap Sub District and you will see the Hot Stream sign. Open daily: From 08.00 am to 5.00
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15,000 200 32,000 Filler (Juvederm ultra plus) 15,000
LOCAL RESIDENTS RECEIVE 20% OFF TOTAL BILL
Reservaaons recommended, Palm Court Restaurant
THB 385++ (THB 450 - net)
THB 430++ (THB 500 - net)
THB 495++ (THB 580 - net)
Centara Anda Dhevi Resort & Spa Krabi 182 Moo 3 Tambol, Ao Nang, Muang Krabi 075-626-222 December | 2015
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Follow your dream
Text by. Aleshka Nazarova
Our new explorer, Aleshka, met with a German couple who decided to change their life. Ellen and Jonas bought a car and made all the necessary changes to make it as comfortable as possible to travel all around the world and start a new adventure. They have been on the road for more than 450 days.
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Who came up with the idea of travelling around the world in the first place? In 2011, Ellen and I spent a while living in Cairo, Egypt where I had the opportunity to study Computer Science for one semester. During this semester, I haven’t spent so much at the university, we preferred to get to know more about a different culture and tried to get around as much as possible. One day, we rented a car and started a little road trip from Cairo to the Sinai desert. It was a beautiful trip for both of us and while we were spending one night in a desert camp called “Camp Rocksea” in Nuweiba, we talked about how great it would be to cross the world in a car. This is how the idea was born and when
we went back to Germany we started to figure everything out to realize this idea. We bought a car, reconstructed it for more than a year and rebuilt the interior in order to travel all around the world in it. How did you get the money for your trip? Well, we worked for quite a while. As I mentioned, when the idea was born I was still at the University and the reconstruction of the car took place while I was studying. After I graduated, I found a well-paid job, which helped us have a decent life without spending too much for our flat. We spent most of our money getting all the essentials we might need for our trip, such as tools to reconstruct the car, and we quit buying superficial things nobody needs on the road. Long story short, we had to work extensively for two years to save the initial budget for our travel. What do you know about travelling? We don’t know that much, we are not adventurers deep down but we gradually learned what it means to live abroad and we always try to learn and understand the countries and cultures we are visiting. We wouldn’t say that we are travelling experts but we know how to organize ourselves and how to get used to each countries’ customs. Which country did you like the most? Why? We fell in love with Mongolia, even if we didn’t spend much time there, we really loved its landscapes and quietness and it felt like home. Experiences you live
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while travelling through a country are not objective since it mostly depends on what your personal experiences were. At the end of the day, each country has good and bad sides. Our answer regarding Mongolia is valid considering the aforementioned facts, we had a very good time and we will definitely go back there. What can you say about Thailand? Especially about Krabi? Unfortunately we won’t be able to stay in Krabi as long as we want due to visa expiration. It is our last stop in Thailand and we are having a really good time. We are staying close to the beach near a football field where some taxi drivers play after the end of their shift; we enjoy watching them and binding with
them. We met another couple from Switzerland, they have been travelling in a truck since seven years. We really love the peaceful atmosphere here, the beaches, the islands, the stunning cliffs and we even have the chance to enjoy climbing in Railay. We had a lot of good experiences in Thailand where we spent eight months. We met friendly people and discovered an amazing culture. What do you recommend for people who want to start travelling around the world? As I mentioned earlier, we developed our way of doing things which is probably not valid or good for others. Some people are travelling very slowly (as we do right now), others like to do December | 2015
it faster. Some are looking for a lot of attractions, others don’t. Some people prefer cities over the rural areas, others vice and versa. Some people like to travel by bike, others by public transport or their own car. The only advice we could give is, just make the first step and you will probably find by yourself the way that suits you the best. What are the pros and cons when you travel in a caravan? In a car you can go wherever you want, which is really great in countries such as Mongolia or Russia where public transports only take you from one city to another. You are independent of guided tours and expensive transportation. We can cook and sleep in the car, we have some water to take a shower, wash the dishes and we are able to transport quite a lot of food and personal stuff. So on the one hand, for us it means independence and on the other hand, it limits us when we consider that going to Australia means organizing the shipping which is around 3000 USD. However, we cannot enter countries like Vietnam, China or Myanmar without getting a guide and therefore without being controlled by someone around the clock. So it has advantages and inconveniences, we like it, others probably won’t.
Did you make any specific encounters during your trip? Yes, we made a lot of special encounters, with locals and foreigners. We also discovered some very special places and that is probably what encourages us to keep on travelling.
For more information, you can visit Ellen and Jonas website: www.intothefar.com
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Let us shed some light on the many exotic fruits of Thailand DRAGON FRUIT (GAO MUNG GORN) This is probably the most dramatic-looking of all the Thai fruits, and the outside appearance gives NO indicator of the inside appearance at all! The fruit is a bright pink oblong shape with pointed green leaves springing out from all sides – hence the name, as it DOES look a little dragon-like. Cutting it open down the middle of the fruit will display a white center, filled with tiny black dots. To eat this fruit, scoop out the filling with a spoon. This fruit is moist, sweet, crunchy and delicious! When picking out dragon fruit, “the redder the better” for ripeness!
G U AVA ( F A R A N G ) Looks like a bumpy/wrinkled green apple. Cutting guava is very pretty. Slice ½ way into it, wedge-like, and then slice all around the guava this way. We pulled out the wedges and ate them this way. This doesn’t taste like the Hawaiian fruit. Hawaiian guava fruits (called strawberry guava) are pink and sweeter. These were somewhat bland, crunchy and starchy – a little pear-like.
ROSE APPLE (CHOM-POO) This looks like a cross between a thin red pepper and an apple. Cut them into lengthwise slices and eat the thin pieces. These are delicious – sweet and crunchy. They are also called Bell or Mountain Apples
MANGOSTEEN (MANG-KUT) Mangosteen is a bizarre looking fruit with a round, deep purple shell. It has flavorful white flesh that is eaten in sections. This has a delicious, distinctive flavor that is also wonderful for juices. Mangosteen is becoming better known globally for it’s remarkable healing properties.
JACKFRUIT (KHANOON) This is a fascinating fruit that comes in a huge spindly ball. Opening it up, you can pull out separate pods, which are around 3” long. These pods have large seeds inside that can be peeled, boiled and eaten with salt. The flesh of the fruit has a pungent taste and smell, somewhat crunchy and a little sour/starchy feel to it. Sometimes they are very sweet, and other times they are pretty bland.
L O N G A N ( L A M - YA I ) Look like big brown grapes on a branch. They have a thin but hard shell that is easy to break open. The flesh is clear and very sweet with a pit inside. These are delicious but don’t eat too many at one time, as you can get cold sores or even a fever.
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DURIAN (DU-RIAN) One of the most bizarre fruits on earth. It is a rich, unique tasting fruit, but to some, it is a putrid-smelling, lousy excuse for a food. It has an extremely strong and unpleasant aroma, as well as a deadly look. Trying this fruit is a step into another world. Durian is quite expensive and due to it’s powerfully imposing smell; it is actually banned from many hotels, busses and planes.
LYCHEE (LINJEE) Covered by a red, roughly textured rind that is inedible but easily removed, the inside of a lychee consists of a layer of sweet, translucent white flesh with a grape-like texture. The centre contains a single glossy brown nut-like seed that should not be eaten.
R A M B U TA N ( N G O R ) The name is derived from the Malay word, rambut, meaning hair, which is a perfect name. The fuzzy, colorful covering of this fruit is unforgettable. Peeling this dramatic covering away reveals a firm, white, translucent flesh. It tastes like a sweet version of a pear, and is a lovely centerpiece for any dinner table.
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FATHER’S DAY
In Thailand, the 5th December, which is the birthday of the current King His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej or the King Rama IX of Chakri Dynasty, is considered the Father’s Day of the nation. It is the auspicious day since the King is venerated as the father of the nation from all of Thai people and also many people around the world. King Rama IX has reigned Thailand since 1950, making him the world’s longestserving current head of state and the longest-reigning monarch ever in Thailand’s history. The King’s father, Prince Mahidol, was studying medicine at Harvard University at the time of the King’s birth. Prince Bhumibol’s father died at an early age and his mother moved to Switzerland where the young prince started his studies. Prince Bhumibol’s interests during this time were photography, science and technology but he had to enroll in law and political science to prepare for his duties as head of state. While finishing his degree in Switzerland, Prince Bhumibol
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visited Paris frequently where he first met Mom Rajawongse Sirikit Kitiyakara, daughter of the Thai ambassador to France. A quiet engagement in Lausanne followed on 19 July 1949, and the couple were married on 28 April 1950, just a week before the King’s coronation. The King and Queen are revered for their generosity and caring for Thai people and the numerous royal projects aimed at improving their life and health Despite being a constitutional monarch, and not legally being allowed a role in politics, King Bhumibol has made several decisive interventions in the Thai political sphere and has been credited with helping
facilitate Thailand’s transition to democracy in the 1990s. In theoretical terms the king has limited powers in the dayto-day governing of Thailand. He does, however, have vast moral authority. His advice and counsel is sought on many of the important decisions of the Thai government. The holiday itself is a colorful affair. Buildings across Thailand display flags, bunting and portraits of the King, while around the Grand Palace area of Bangkok, the streets are decorated with thousands of marigolds. Marigolds are chosen for their yellow color, as the King was born on a Monday and in Thailand, yellow is the color for Monday and celebrations. In the early morning, people make merit at the temple for themselves and also for paying homage to the King. During the day, fathers and their children spend time together and some children give to their fathers the Canna flower (Dok Phuttharaksa), the symbolic flower of father’s day. www.krabi-magazine.com
COME TO WHERE THE PARTY IS
CENTER POINT
NIGHT CLUBS | LIVE MUSIC | BARS | DANCE
WALKING STREET
GREAT FOOD, LIVE MUSIC AND ALL YOUR SHOPPING NEEDS, COME AND TAKE LOOK AT THE NUMEROUS TREASURES THE WALKING STREET HAS TO OFFER.
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FULLMOON BAR At the Fullmoon Bar you can have a drink or grab some dinner or even both. So, enjoy some good food and drinks at a decent price while listening to great music performed by a few locals playing covers of new and old music. The atmosphere is fantastic and the staff very friendly. They have good starters, nice cocktails and brilliant live music, what else? Address: 159/23 Moo 2 Ao NANG Phone number: 081 894 1288 Website: http://www.fullmoonbar.in.th/
AFRICA LIVE Aning is one of the fanciest restaurants in Ao Nang, with very attentive service and a very diverse menu. But what makes the place so special is a unique band that has a first class blend of South African and Thai musicians named Africa Live. Their repertoire of music consist of all types of great artists stemming from the late seventies right up until today’s big numbers. Their live performance always leaves a lasting impression on tourists and the locals making the experience as memorable as a live concert. Address: 142 Moo 2, Ao Nang Phone number: 075 637 7667
BOOGIE BAR When you explore the beachfront of Krabi you will definitely be attracted by the music of the refreshing live band that performs at Boogie Bar. A very nice atmosphere with a really enthusiastic staff and a good location where the drinks are reasonably priced and come with good service. If you want to enjoy a great bar with fantastic music (mostly in English), then you are at the right place.
Address: Walking Street, Ao Nang Phone number: 083 388 4472
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FUNKY BAR Nice and cozy bar in Ao Nang with a great lounge atmosphere, tasty chicken kebab and cocktails. You can always find there good music and good friends. The Funky Bar is mostly visited by local people who want to have a nice time and enjoy a friendly ambience.
Address: Next to Slumber Party Hostel in Ao Nang Phone number:081-415-4359
ROOTS ROCK REGGAE BAR If you want to have a great time at night in Ao Nang then you should visit the Roots Rock Reggae Bar, you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy the live band and their classic rock, pop and of course reggae music. The very friendly and engaging staff will take good care of you in a happy atmosphere with awesome drinks.
Address 15, 420/14-15 4203, Ao Nang, Krabi Phone number: 080 693 2274
AMY’s BAR If you want to have a drink in a friendly atmosphere then Amy’s bar is the right place for you. Here you can taste local and imported beers, numerous whiskeys and cocktails. Either you want to enjoy watching some sports on the two large screens or just have fun in the huge oval bar, the twenty hostesses will take good care of you so you never have to leave your seat. Address: Soi RCA - opposite Mc Donald’s in Ao Nang Email: questions@amys-bar.com Phone number: 081-2738-819
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A
foreigner could marry a Thai, or another foreigner in Thailand. Thailand’s allure to foreigners as the perfect wedding locale must be from its pristine island beaches, the exotic jungle destinations, the colorful city, historic attractions, or perhaps the concept of the traditional Thai wedding. Apart from the wedding ceremony, here’s how a foreigner can legally register for marriage in Thailand. Like any other special occasion, marriage takes a lot of preparation. If you are planning to get married in Thailand, you need to be familiarized with several processes and legalities it entails. Securing legal assistance from a local attorney is the best way to ensure that your marriage carries weight in Thailand and abroad, and guarantee compliance to Thai legal parameters. This may sound tedious at first, but rest assured that you’ve done much of the legwork. After all, you’ve already found love, that’s supposed to be the hardest part. The marriage will only be recognized under the law of your home country if it is valid under Thai law. In other words, simply having a ceremony in Thailand doesn’t mean you are legally married. It is very possible to complete the process of getting the correct documentation together in one day. However, it is advised to leave a two-day window aside to complete the process just in case you run into a problem. Whether you are a foreign national marrying a Thai national, or a foreign couple coming to Thailand to get married, you will need to jump through a few hoops before you can legally register your marriage. Foreigners who are wishing to marry shall appear in person with their respective passports and arrival card at their Embassy in Thailand to complete a declaration called
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“affirmation of freedom to marry” attesting that you are single and free to marry in accordance with Thai Law. This affirmation is impossible to obtain from your country of residence in advance. The registration shall be effected by a Thai Diplomatic or Consular Officer. You need to take the completed declaration to a reputable translation office to have the contents of the declaration translated into Thai. Then, the documents together with translation and copies of passports have to be taken to the Legalization Division of Consular Affairs Department, where the Consular Official’s signature will be authenticated. This normally takes two days. These documents and translation are then ready for submission to a District Office, known as an ‘amphur’ or ‘khet’, where the District Registrar will register the marriage and issue the marriage certificate in Thai in accordance with and following the procedure led down in Thai Law. This application can be filed at any District Office or Minor District Office nationwide regardless of the birthplace of the couple. A marriage can take place on a declaration made by both the parties intending to marry by giving consent to take each other as husband and wife publicly before the registrar in order to have it recorded by him. Giving consent to the marriage may be made by: -Affixing the signature of the person giving consent in the Register at the time of registration of the marriage; -A consent document stating the names of the parties to the marriage and signed by the person giving consent; -Verbal declaration before at least two witnesses in www.krabi-magazine.com
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case of necessity. The consent having been given cannot be revoked. Now that all the paperwork is done, it is time you moved on to the next stage, which is living the most memorable experience with your beloved one. For many of those who are getting married in Krabi with family and friends, about every resort has a specialized wedding or events planner who can make sure that the Registrar comes to your resort. You will have to sign the declaration before the wedding ceremony starts and they will issue you with a Thai marriage certificate. Krabi is renowned as a premier destination for Thailand weddings where time stands still, allowing your extraordinary moment to unfold. With its amazing landscape and romantic atmosphere, most of Krabi’s
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resorts offer enchanting wedding venues to accommodate the wedding of your dreams. Just make a wish and experience unique celebrations such as a ceremony surrounded by lotus and orchids, a traditional blessing ceremony performed by Thai Buddhist monks or a refined candles ceremony at dawn. Depending on whether you prefer indoor elegant Thai style banquet rooms or an outdoor wedding ceremony on the beach, your dream will come true no matter what. Krabi’s stunning location and picturesque view on the islands make it the perfect location for your dream wedding and a mystic symbol of your new life together as a couple.
SPECIAL NOTE You should allow four working days in Bangkok prior to registering your marriage as you are required to have been a resident in Thailand for at least three days before you get married and you must allow time for the paperwork to be processed in Bangkok. This also allows you to visit some of the wonderful attractions of the Capital City. You may also wish to obtain a sworn translation of your marriage certificate into your native language so that it can be used as a legal document back home.
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Blending superbly with the natural beauty of the area, the hotel offers 79 tastefully decorated rooms and villas on the secluded “Tubkeak” beach with breathtaking views of the Andaman sea. A nyavee Tubkeak Beach Resort would like invite you to experience our liile piece of private paradise where sky meets the endless sea.
WWW.ANYAVEETUBKEAKBEACHRESORT.COM
December | 2015
+66 (0) 75 607 222
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thai talk
Hello (m) / (f) Thank you (m) / (f) How are you? I’m fine How much is this? What is this?
Sawadee Krap / sawadee kaa khopoon krap / khopoon kaa Sabai Dee Mai? Sabai Dee A Nee Tao Rai? Nee a Rai?
Yes
Chai
No
Mai Chai
I can’t speak Thai Sorry/Excuse me Can you speak English? I don’t understand
Poot Passa Thai Mai Dai Kor Toht Khun Poot Passa Angrit Dai Mai? Mai Khao Jai
Do you understand?
Khao Jai Mai?
Help!
Chooey Dooey!
Spicy
Pet
Not spicy Is that tasty? Hot (Temperature) Cold Water Where is the restroom/toilet? Can I have the bill/check? See you soon 56
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DID YOU KNOW....
We have built LANTA ANIMAL WELFARE’s Center & our profits support their daily cost? So, come on join the fun Learn, Eat & Drink your hearts out AND FEEL so GOOD
cooking school beach bar & restaurant
The first on the Island. QUALITY - FUNKY & FUN ATMOSPHERE SINCE 2003
HAPPY HOURS 4 - 6:30 pm on our famous cocktails. Supurb Tasting Menu that changes every day! Serving from 5pm.
Bungalows
9 cozy air-con & fan
KLONG DAO BEACH FRONT - KOH LANTA Closed SUNDAYS Tel: 075 684 590
www.timeforlime.net
COME AND VISIT US! open EVERY DAY: 9.30 - 5 pm
Tours, Doggie Walking, Kitty Cuddles & Adoptions A non-profit Organization
• Keeping the Island safe with spay/neuter & rabies vaccinations. • Treating sick, injured and abused animals. • Please help us to continue this important work, as we don’t get any government support.
MODERN
We’re in Pra-Ae opposite the school. Tel: 084 304 4331 If it wasn’t for Cooking School we wouldn’t be here. They are 3 km north from us on Klong Dao Beach front.
CONTEMPORARY
STYLISH CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 075-638-333 Info@tetrishotel.com www.tetrishotel.com December | 2015
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A new creative tourism destination
Paka Showpark, a place where imagination comes to life, is located in Krabi province. For a ten-acre area in Krabi town (opposite ‘Wat Thum Suea’), within a short five minutes driving distance from the Krabi international Airport, will rise the new complex of entertainment. Imagination and creativity are combined at this place which is probably stimulated by immersing yourself in the folklore and legends of Southern Thailand. Also, be ready to witness spectacular shows that can’t be seen anywhere else along with a seafood buffet and amazing souvenirs. Paka Showpark will take you to another level of experiencing a touch of nature and will provide tourist facilities with parking spaces that will accommodate up to two hundred cars, will offer 24 hours around the clock security and free WIFI throughout the entire project. The landscape at PAKA Showpark is comprises four interconnected zones that will certainly stimulate your senses through music,
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lighting and delicious food. The park’s unique design will make visitors feel fully immersed in the amazing Paka Showpark. All zone will be completed by 2018. The project will be launched with its first phase: Park Pakasai, a public space that is designed to welcome visitors with unique architecture that reflects the charm of Thailand’s
Southern Region. On the one hand, Park Pakasai will convey the spirit of the Andaman Sea, filled with beauty and on the other hand it will complete Krabi’s nightlife with activities, beer festivals and Thai cuisine. The festivities at Park Pakasai will start with Krabi Illumanorah 2015, the biggest LED light festival of Southern Thailand which will take place from
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December 1st 2015 to March 15th 2016. The event concept is “Happiness Everyday” with several stalls called shop, savor, chill, shoot, share and show. There will also be a special New Year’s countdown celebration on 31st of December 2015 that will promises to be impressive and unforgettable. Everyone is invited to participate at the night’s celebratory atmosphere with the seafood buffet and the show and we will also provide an exclusively “Halal food” station. Enjoy shopping at PAKA Market, a unique design that reflects our brand identity and the Southern culture. Besides, all the good products such as clothes, handmade decoration, jewelry and trinket will be selected for your appreciation.
and Thai cuisine to keep your tastes satisfied.
Following the parks opening, there will be a Promotional Period from 16 – 24 December Complimentary shuttle van transportation: this year featuring halfpriced tickets. The park The team at the Paka will be fully open and Showpark provides a free operational on the 25th shuttle van service for four December till March routes around Krabi town and Ao- Nang, they are as follows: 2016 -Route 1: City – pick up point at Chao- Fah Pier -Route 2: Ao Nang – pick up point at Hat Nopparhat Thara Pier -Route 3: Klong Muang -Route 4: Tup - kaak Beach
The climax highlight is an extraordinary show called “Illumanorah”, the first great world class performance ever in Thailand that combines folk dance and the new era of LED black light. Combined with a choreography and music, you will be transported to a Fantasy World thanks to the magic of the show. The opening house on 1- 15 this December will be free to the public and feature the highlights of the showpark to come. Such activities as the teaser of the Illumanorah LED show, an open air flea market, a local live band and plenty of seafood, as well as foreigner December | 2015
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WINTER SUN HOLIDAYS F
or most of European and North American people, Christmas is a winter holiday, helping to add some sparkle to the long and dreary December evenings. Traditional festivities and costumes seem to be made for cold weather: the satisfyingly rich food, the warm spices of mulled wine, fur-lined Santa hats, the garishly bright decorations and the sharp notes of carols on a crisp, chilly morning. The seasonal decorations are about as far as most Thai people will go to acknowledge the Yuletide festival (although the song, ‘Jingle Bells’, is very popular and is taught in schools all year round). Some people will give presents, this is a fairly recent phenomenon, and tends to take
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place around New Year. Festivities are mainly reserved for shopping centers, private parties and restaurants serving special holiday set menus. For most of the Thai population, Christmas is just a day like any other, which is perfect if you have come abroad to escape the excesses of turkey and mince pies. The vast majority of local tour companies and activity centers will be operating a normal schedule, so you can, if you wish, choose to spend your Christmas Day diving, kayaking, rock-climbing or simply pick-nicking on your favorite island without the spectre of Santa Claus looming on the horizon. Shops and banks will also be open for business as usual. T r a v e l agents and
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heading down to the nearest beach, where you will be able to see all the fireworks from the hotel celebrations, as well as float your own fire balloon for good luck in the coming year. Here are some tips for making the most of the New Year celebrations, as well as some advice about staying safe through the holiday:
big hotels often assume that you wish to celebrate as if you were at home and it is also possible to do so (minus the freezing weather). Most attempts to stage festivities for guests are usually following the formula of a buffet meal, with a few games, a band and schoolgirls Thai dancing. Whereas Christmas passes virtually unnoticed in Thailand, New Year (both 31 December and 1 January) is a public holiday and an excuse for wild partying. ‘Pi mai’, as the new year is known in Thai, is one of the year’s biggest celebrations, uniting all ages and religions. The bars, restaurants and hotels in Krabi will be rising to the occasion. If you are not tied in to a Gala Dinner, we would advise
www.crownlanta.com December | 2015
- Both December 31st and January 1st are public holidays, and the New Year is widely celebrated across the kingdom. - There is a countdown being held at Nopparat Thara Beach on 31 December, along with a market fair.
be parties in most areas; try Tonsai for a beach party, Luna Bar for the dancefloor or Center Point Plaza for live bands. If possible, avoid driving anywhere on New Year’s Eve. If you must, please be extra careful on the roads. Drink-driving is very common here and accidents, often fatal, increase exponentially during this time of year. - Stuck for a New Year’s resolution? Make one to visit (or revisit) one of the most beautiful places on Earth: Krabi. You won’t regret it.
- For the youngsters and young at heart, post-midnight, there will
rsvn@crownlanta.com
66 (0) 7562 6999
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hot Spiced Christmas Wine This spicy and sweet holiday wine is a traditional part of winter, and mostly Christmas, celebrations.
Ingredients for 12 servings:
- 2 oranges - 2 bottles of red wine - 1 bottle of white wine - 1 piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced - 3 cinnamon sticks - ½ teaspoon ground cloves - 1/3 cup brown sugar - Ÿ cup of brandy (optional)
Directions 1. Use a sharp knife or a vegetable peeler to remove the zest from the oranges in strips, being careful to remove only the orange part, leaving the pith behind. Then, juice the oranges into a large, heavy-bottomed pot. 2. Pour the red wine and white wine into the pot with the orange juice. Place the strips of orange zest, ginger, cinnamon sticks, cloves and brown sugar into the pot with the wine mixture; stir to dissolve the sugar. 3. Cover and heat over medium-high until heated through, but not boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and heat for an hour or longer to bring all of the flavors together. Adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar, as necessary. Strain and serve hot with a splash of brandy, if desired.
You can keep this wine over low heat (or in a slow cooker) for quite a while. As the wine heats, some of the alcohol in the wine will evaporate out.
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Thai Restaurant & Bar Sky Lounge & Lush Garden Free shuttle service
Chill out with your friends or enjoy a romantic dinner at The Hilltop Open Hours: 11:00 - 24:00 T: 075-637-195
M: 084-455-0096
Email: hilltop.aonang@gmail.com Web: www.thehilltopaonang.com
AO NANG MUAY THAI STADIUM FIGHTS EVERY
MONDAY AND FRIDAY NIGHTS START AT 9.00 PM
RINGSIDE 1,500THB | AREAN SEATING 1,000THB
075-621-042, 081-606-2888
FACEBOOK: AONANG KRABI STADIUM WWW.AONANG-THAIBOXING.COM
體育館 每星期日來看泰拳打架。 開始：晚上九點。 VIP票1500THB，場票1000THB СТОИМОСТЬ БИЛЕТОВ: VIP 1500 БАТ，ВТОРОЙ КЛАСС 1000 БАТ December | 2015
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Koh Lanta consists of two islands, Koh Lanta Noi and Koh Lanta Yai. Koh Lanta Noi is the smaller of the two and does not have tourist facilities. Visitors travelling by road from the mainland pass through the smaller island on the way to Koh Lanta Yai - the center of it all. Ban Sala Dan village on the north side of the island is Lanta Yai’s commercial center and the pier where visitors arrive on the island. It is a row of shops, seafood restaurants on stilts, dive shops, tour operators, banks and guest houses that cater for newcomers on the island.
The Sunset Island, Koh Lanta
The bulk of the Lanta beaches lie along the west coast - hence it’s often referred to name as ‘The Sunset Island’-and can all be reached by road: Khao Kwang, Khlong Dao and Phra Ae all have long stretches of white sand facing the Andaman sea, while Khlong Khong, Khlong Nin and Ba Kan Tiang and other smaller bays take in more dramatic views and less crowded for swimming.
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Ba Kantiang Bay has spectacular crystal–clear seawater, soft white sand, romantic sunsets in utmost privacy. It’s the picture of a postcard, symbolizing a luxe hideaway in Lanta for relaxing in natural surroundings. Known as Ban San Kau, this sea gypsy’s settlement is based on south-east Lanta Yai. It is there that an old clan of traditional Chao Ley try to preserve a disappearing way of life in this fast-developing island.
Once called Ban Si Raya, Old Town was historically a commercial port for Chinese and Arabic trading boats that sailed between the ports of Phuket, Penang and Singapore. Today it is a village with a few rows of stilted shop houses and home to an ancient community that was established on the island long ago. It’s a picturesque place dating back 100 years, from the old days of sea trading. Near the shacks along the coast, local fishermen still dock their longtail boats and make for an authentic snapshot of local life.
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LANTA ACTIVITES
Namaste at Oasis Yoga
Enjoy fire shows at Why Not Bar
Snorkeling and fishing at Lanta Dream & Paradise
Yoga is a great way to take back control over your holistic, mental and emotional health and Oasis Yoga is an exceptional place to do so.
Located right on the beach at Kantiang Bay View Resort, the Why Not Bar host live appearances from popular bands in Thailand and hold beach parties about once a month. With a live band every night, fireshows on the beach and great cocktails, there’s a buzz going on there every night.
Looking to discover the beauty of the Andaman Sea in a friendly and easy going atmosphere then look no further than Lanta Dream & Paradise, a company specialized in private snorkeling and fishing trips.
Situated at Klong Dao Beach, Oasis Yoga welcomes you to discover restorative health with laid back island relaxation and a chill seaside attitude. Whether you are a seasoned yoga practioner or want to try your first practice in a unique atmosphere, Farra Williams, a certified yoga instructor, is here to help you develop the tools to take the peace of holistic health home with you. Phone number : +66 (0) 85 115 4067 www.oasisyoga-lanta.com
Fire shows at Why Not Bar are some of the best you will see on the island and are a must see during your stay in Koh Lanta. They normally start after 10pm but if you want a good seat in the bar you will need to get there a little earlier. Just sit, relax and enjoy a laid back atmosphere, great vibe and a very entertaining and welcoming staff. Phone number : +66 (0) 83 644 1333 www.facebook.com/WhyNotBarKohLanta
Aboard authentic longtail boats with a professional team, Lanta Dream & Paradise offers you unique trips with exclusive itineraries by discovering and exploring the heart of Marine National Parks of Koh Phi Phi, Koh Bamboo and so many more. If you want to cut off of the world for a short time you can choose a camping trip program in Koh Rok and Koh Kradan or pass a fishing day on the sea in Koh Haa with Captain Boo. All tours include transfers go and back from your hotel to the boat, Marine National Park entrance fees, snorkeling equipment, Thai buffet, fresh water, fruits, fishing equipment (for the Fishing Trip), camping tents 2/3 people (for the Camping package), life jackets and insurance for passengers. Phone number : +66 (0) 890 999 423/ +66 (0) 861 114 054 / +66 (0) 855 790 178 www.lantalongtailboat.sitew.org
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Scuba diving at OK Club Diving Center
Thai cooking classes at Time for Lime
Help local animals at Lanta Animal Welfare
If you want to discover scuba diving and the amazing underwater world of Koh Lanta with all its great dive sites and marine life, Ok Club Diving Center will make your dream comes true.
If you are looking to learn how to cook authentic Thai food then you must stop by Time for Lime where cooking classes are conducted in an open-air beachfront cookery school kitchen by the foodie lover Junie Kovacs.
Rated on Tripadvisor as the No 1. Thing to do on Koh Lanta, Lanta Animal Welfare (LAW) is a non-profit organisation working to relieve the suffering of local animals through sterilization, vaccination and medical care.
Junie started Time for Lime out of a love of food. She wanted to give people amazing food experiences on a full-time basis. Her passion for food led her to create a well designed and laid-back atmosphere for people. Her work is known for its crosscultural and disciplinary surprises. She also founded Lanta Animal Welfare out of a love of animals and the profits from Time For Lime goes to LAW.
The rescue center is open daily to visitors who can tour the facilities and meet the animals. Whether you are interested in taking a dog for a stroll on the beach (some of the dogs love to swim) or are happier cudling one of the many affectionate cats, LAW is the place where you can get your furry fix while contributing to a worthwile cause.
Ok Club Diving Center is the opportunity to dive with highly qualified instructors in a very well organised establishment and learn through a friendly and professional approach. The courses and programs are available in english, german, italian, polish, french and russian. The Center offers unique sessions of cave diving, an extreme activity demanding high requirements for equipment configuration and reliability, as well as divers skills, physical condition and mental strength. If your wish is to explore some underwater treasures then opt for safari diving tours and choose between exotic Myanmar, the famous Similan Islands or Komodo Park in Indonesia.
Phone number : +66 (0) 75 68 4590 / +66 (0) 89 967 5017
Phone number : +66 (0) 84 304 4331 www.lantaanimalwelfare.com
www.timeforlime.net
Phone number : +66 (0) 88 019 5640 www.okclubthai.com
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Dining Guide / Koh Lanta LAZY DAYS BEACH RESTAURANT | WESTERN 775 Moo 2 T. Saladan Koh Lanta In our menu you will find a variety of western specialties such as fresh fish, meat or chicken as well as delicious salads and desserts. For breakfast we offer 4 different packages which always includes freshly baked bread, fresh fruit and western coffee. For lunch we serve cold dishes like chicken wraps and salads and from 17.00 we offer our full menu. Lazy Days restaurant is located on the beautiful Relax Beach and offers a stunning view at sunset, come join us for a sunset drink. Our professional and creative western chefs will do their best to satisfy your expectations and our staff will look after you with a smile
Average price: 150-400+ THB What to Try: Rack of Lamb Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: 7:30am - 10pm (monday until 4pm) Tel:+66 (0)93-636-8003 | 090-157-0201 Website: www.lantalazydays.com
TIDES {LAYANA RESORT & SPA| FINE FUSION 272 Moo 3 Saladan, Phra-Ae Beach A formal restaurant perched on the very edge of the beach overlooking the sea and open to the cooling sea breezes. Guests have the choice of a cool interior venue or an al fresco beachside setting on the deck in front of the restaurant. Serving a mouth-watering a la carte selection of international dishes, as well as traditional Thai fare and seafood specialties all made from the freshest of ingredients.
Average price: 400-900+ THB
The chef, Khun Apichai, grows his own herbs in a beautiful garden right on the premises and the presentation of his food is straight out of a Monet.
Free WiFi?: Yes
The menu quality is matched by an extensive wine list to compliment the food perfectly.
Tel: +66 (0)75 607 100
What to Try: Healthy Spa Cuisine Menu Opening Hours: 6:30am - 10:30am & 11:30am - 6pm Website: www.layanaresort.com
TIME FOR LIME | THAI & FUSION 72/2 Mo 3, Klong Dao Beach, Saladan. Look for the “lime green” sign. A small, funky un-snobbish place with passion and soul, on the beachfront for over 10 years. Not only a famous professional Cooking School, but also now a well know restaurant that serves a high quality 6 dish Tasting Menu (changes daily) with an extremely good value. They also serve great wine with low prices, and their cocktails are the talk of the town. In the tree top adult-zone you can you can relish the sea, while having a peek at what the cooking school “chefs” are creating down below. What also makes this place unique is that their profit goes to the charity Lanta Animal Welfare. So, while you enjoy wining & dining, you support a great cause too.
Average price: 490 THB for 6 dish Tasting menu What to Try: The lemongrass or chili Margarita Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Happy Hour on cocktails 4 – 6.30pm Tel: +66 (0)75 684 590 Website: www.timeforlime.net
BEACHCOMBER {LANTA CASTAWAY RESORT | TEXMEX & THAI 299 Moo 2 Phra Ae, Saladan, Koh Lanta. If you’re searching for a laid-back, yet stylish beach-front dining experience , then Beachcomber is the place for you. The restaurant features a terrific menu selection and is best known for its authentic TEX-MEX dishes. You’ll also want to try the large selection of savory Thai, Western and Seafood BBQ dishes. The open-air restaurant is situated near the beach and there is also plenty of outdoor seating on the beach-front deck and in the garden. You’ll also want to enjoy a before and/or after dinner drink at the beach bar which serves up a wide variety of cocktails and delicious frozen drinks.
Average price: 250 - 350THB What to Try: The Tex Mex food Free WiFi?: Bungalow guests only Opening Hours: Daily from 7am - 9pm Tel: +66 (0)75 684 851 Website: www.lantacastaway.com
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Ferry to Mainland
Boat
s to K Ao N oh Jum ,K ang, Raila rabi, Ph iP y, Ph uket hi BAN SALADAN
Koh Lanta Noi
Ferry to Mainland
Crown Lanta Resort
Thanee Law
Time for Lime
Klong Dao Beach Layana Resort & Spa
Mangrove Forest Agrotourism Center longtail boat trips
Lanta Castaway Resort
Phra Ae
Thung Yee Pheng village
Long Beach Lazy Days Bungalows
Lanta Animal Welfare
Klong Khong Beach Koh Bubu
Jee Lee village
Klong Tob Beach Rawi Warin Resort
Lanta Old Town
Thai Island Dream Estate
Klong Nin Beach
Mai Kaew Cave
Pier
Srilanta Resort
Koh Por Tham Seua Cave
Lanta Hospital
Klong Nui Beach
Koh Lanta Yai
Klong Hin Beach
The Houben
Waterfall
Koh Klang
Pimalai Resort
Ba Kantiang Bay
Koh Lek Ao Nui Bay Klong Jark Bay
National Park Headquarters
Sang Ka U sea gypsy village
May Pai Bay December | 2015
Koh Lanta
Lighthouse
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UNPLUG IN
KOH JUM The Unofficial guide to one of the hidden treasure of Krabi
K
oh Jum Island is still the quintessential destination in Krabi province if you are looking for authentic Thai village life and development that is still a small footprint.
Koh Pu Mountain is the dominant geological feature on the island at over 400 meters. It’s a great hike for the adventurous and a vital refuge of native habitat still harboring Asian Pied Hornbills and Burmese pythons.
Geography brought electricity to Koh Jum late in 2009 as the island was in the direct path of the new underwater electric cable connecting Koh Phi Phi to the mainland. So now that Koh Jum is plugged-in, has it lost its reputable character that has attracted intrepid travelers over the past couple of decades?
The three villages; Koh Pu, Ting Rai and Koh Jum are situated on the back side of the island, amongst the mangroves while the resorts are located opposite, facing the open Andaman Sea. This division allows the villagers to remain authentic without a significant tourist infrastructure while the resorts are all located on the beaches.
We are pleased to report that Koh Jum is still as tranquil and laid back as it always has been. In fact, what is most noticeable are the lack of noisy generators at most of the islands resorts. Folks come to Koh Jum to tune out; the island’s nature and culture dominate the minimal tourist infrastructure.
Koh Jum is predominately a large Muslim populated sub-district of Krabi, home to over 1,500 inhabitants. The locals of these villages engage mostly in fishing, rubber cultivation and the local crafts of cloth weaving and painting or ‘batik’ as it is known as here. While the north is mountainous, the south is comprised of dense jungle, cashew nut trees, rubber plantations, casuarinas and nipa-palms.
The existing resorts on Koh Jum all have their own family-run character, ranging from the backpackers paradise to luxurious beach villas.
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Since all the resorts face West, there are epic sunsets to be had all along the island. The
renowned Koh Jum Lodge is an excellent place to stay for a few days, and has superb views to boot. Access to the island is by longtail taxi boats which leave from the mainland at the port town of Laem Kruat. There is now a songthaew you can take direct from Krabi Town to Laem Kruat. During the high season most visitors come to Koh Jum using the Krabi-Koh Lanta ferry which stops at two locations on Koh Jum, both of which are offshore so local longtail boats will come from the island to pick up passengers. The lack of any deep ports on the island keep the ferry boats out at sea and almost prevent large masses of tourists from overcrowding the island. Getting here is an adventure and this ends up defining the interesting community of resorts and visitors that have made this island their home and the place they return to year after year. Getting to Koh Jum can be very simple or a bit of a nightmare, it all depends on how www.krabi-magazine.com
much you know about it. This is where Krabi magazine can help, we recently took the trip to Koh Jum ourselves and have decided to share the adventure with all of our readers.
signs which tell you to turn right for “Koh Jam”. This road will lead to the small locality of Laem Kruat, where you will find a large pier with boats going to Koh Jum.
There are 2 ways to get to Koh Jum- by passing ferry or longtail boat. There are ferries that leave from Koh Lanta at 8am and from Krabi at 11am, both ferries stop as they pass alongside Koh Jum and signal to longtail boats to come and pick up visitors to land ashore Koh Jum.
If you don’t have transport of your own, you can always catch a blue and yellow “songthaew” - the local buses that have benches in the back. On the side of the “songthaew” will be written – Krabi, Bus Station, Tesco, Big C, Laem Kruat, they are frequent and easy to spot.
Koh Phi Phi also has ferries which leave at 2pm and operate on the same principle as above.
These buses will leave from all of these locations at intervals throughout the day and will take you directly to the Laem Kruat pier.
The second way to get to Koh Jum is to go to the port town of Laem Kruat, from where you can catch a longtail boat directly to Koh Jum- this was our favorite of the 2 methods of travel. If you are driving, it takes about one hour to get from Ao Nang to Laem Kruat.
Now, the pier is a bit misleading. We waited at the end of the pier before realizing the longtail taxis were passing us by and docking at the mainland. Then we went back and followed our noses along past the shops until we saw a slipway with goods and people being unloaded. It was the second slipway we needed to get to “Moo Too”, the place on Koh Jum we were being collected from. If you know the name of the pier on Koh Jum
You just head to Tesco Lotus and then continue until you see the large overhead December | 2015
you need to get to, just ask anyone in this area and they will direct you to the correct boat. We got on and soon were chugging along through the mangroves with a boat full of happy local Muslim women that looked as they hadn’t changed a bit since 1925 We arrived at Koh Jum just 45 minutes later, paid our 70thb fare and were taken by “taxi” (a battered old pickup truck) through the winding dirt track until we reached our destination resort. Give it a go and you will see a different side of Thailand from years gone by.
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What Does the term Rai mean? A Rai is a a measurement used to describe an area of Land in Thailand. 1 Square Rai is equal to 1,600 Square meters (40M X 40M), all measurements related to the Rai have been derived form the square meter. The Rai equals 4 Ngaan each of which is 400 Talangwa aka. Square meter. On international land measurment systems all of the Thai units of measurements are acceptable units of measurement; The Rai, The Ngaan and The Talangwa. Converting Rai and Wah can be complex and create legal issues when people do not understand what it is that they are signing a contract for. Please always double check all of your figures prior to signing anything. Our sample land conversion table below can offer you a starting point to understand what your potential purchase is. These are the basics for land conversion in the land measurment system of Thailand. Thailand does not use the Imperial or Metric system for measuring land.
1 Sq. Wah = 4 Sq m. 1 acre = 2.471 Rai = 3,953.6 Sq m. = 42,556 Sq ft. 1 Ngan = 100 Wah (or 400 Sq. m.) 1 hectare = 6.25 Rai = 10,000 Sq. m. = 107,640 Sq. ft. 1 Rai = 4 Ngan (or 1,600 Sq. m.)
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Nong Thale River Residence Custom designed villas & holiday rentals
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Quiet and spacious residential area Near Ao Nang beach and entertainment Krabi International Airport 25 kilometer Spacious plots 1100-1600m2 Custom built villas Quality materials Environmentally conscious construction Project management and rental service Good accessibility for seniors Opportunity to experience on site before buying 300
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Nong Thale River Residence l l l l l l l l l l
350 m
4034 Krabi
4024 Klong Muang
Wat Klong Son
Kamalot
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December | 2015
Co. Ltd. Land & Development
บริษท ั กมล๊อต จำกัด
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Property listings Single level villa, Ao Nang (Central), Krabi A brand new project of 21 similar, two-bedroom villas, each with or without private pool. Located in a popular area of Ao Nang just 5-minutes from the beach and 35-minutes from Krabi airport. The project will join into a new managed resort by the same developer and on site rental services and staff will be available meaning these villas have very good rental income potential. The property consists of main living area to the front of the house, with dining and fitted kitchen to the rear. Master bedroom is at the rear of the property with ensuite bathroom. The second bathroom is shared with living area. The front of the property has covered off-road parking for one vehicle and could used for outdoor seating. A small garden and L-shaped pool finishes off the property. A low cost investment for a personal villa of this quality with excellent rental potential.
Environment: Countryside US$ 84,000 Freehold
2 bedroom(s) 2 bathroom(s) Private swimming pool 92 sqms floor space 220 sqms land plot Contact: Wlucas@exotiq.com, 084-848-0146
Single level villa, Ao Nang (Central), Krabi Well finished and presented villas for sale, all with jacuzzi pool and 400sqm land plots, just outside the busy Ao Nang area. Fast access to either the beach (5-mins) or the airport (30-mins). This is a project by a local Thai developer with experience over 4 projects. The furniture package is of a higher quality than most projects in this price bracket and the main living areas are very tastefully decorated and finished. Sliding doors open out onto the pool terrace and 7m long pool with children’s area and jacuzzi. An outdoor shower and well laid out terrace with LED lighting add some welcome features. The quality LED lighting continues throughout the home adding a modern touch and reduced power consumption. The master bedroom has fitted furniture with wardrobes and its own en-suite bathroom. Secondary bedroom follows a similar theme with bathroom shared with the main living area. A fully-fitted kitchen comes complete with refrigerator, gas hob and extractor. Prices start from 5.9m.
Environment: Beach US$ 167,000 Freehold
2 bedroom(s) 2 bathroom(s) Private swimming pool 131 sqms floor space 400 sqms land plot Contact: Wlucas@exotiq.com, 084-848-0146
Single level villa, Ao Nang (Central), Krabi A two-bedroom property situated just 5-minutes drive from Ao Nang, 7-minutes from Klong Muang beach with Krabi airport just 30-minutes away. This modern property for sale has clean styling and built to a higher standard which is clearly visible throughout. The property is set in a quiet and peaceful area against a picturesque mountain backdrop which allows anyone staying here to truly relax. A large land plot with pleasant garden with shrubbery and fruit trees and a 12-meter pool, which is perfect for general enjoyment and also swimming laps. The villa features open-plan living area which extends through quality hardwood sliding doors onto the outside terrace. The master bedroom and guest room are located adjacent to the living area and entrance hall and are fully en-suite. A handy guest toilet is also accessible from the living area. The villa has a detached car port and storage room. The property is priced very conservatively given the land size, quality and furnishing.
Environment: Countryside
US$ 339,000 Leasehold for 90 years
2 bedroom(s) 2 bathroom(s) Private swimming pool 163 sqms floor space 1,312 sqms land plot Contact: Wlucas@exotiq.com, 084-848-0146
Multi level villa, Klong Muang (Central), Krabi
This three-bedroom, furnished pool villa for sale is located in the Klong Muang district of Krabi and lies only 10-minutes drive from Ao Nang and 40-minutes from Krabi airport. Klong Muang beach is within 10-minutes walk from the property’s hillside location with partial seaview. The property is being sold due to the owner relocating and has been listed far below market value to attract a faster sale. The ground floor of the property houses the large living, dining and western kitchen with fitted appliances including microwave hob refrigerator and washing machine. Upstairs lies the lavish master bedroom and ensuite bathroom with tub. In the opposite building lies bedrooms two and three which both feature dressing areas with fitted wardrobes and ensuite bathrooms and open-air showers. The property has off-road parking for two vehicles. Sun Paradise, quality brand windows and doors. The property would suit a family or as a lowcost, premium rental investment.
Environment: Hillside US$ 381,000 Freehold
3 bedroom(s) 3 bathroom(s) Private swimming pool 290 sqms floor space 800 sqms land plot Contact: Wlucas@exotiq.com, 084-848-0146
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