Krabi Magazine

Race On! Adventure Racing comes to Krabi

The Pulse News from Krabi and beyond

Holiday in Heaven?

Christmas in Thailand

Elegance, Peace, Perfection. Yours The Pelican:Â New luxury residential development in Krabi

News, Eating, Travel, Activities, Reviews, Sport, Nature

The Houben Hotel Koh Lanta luxury rooms for rent

The Houben Villa Koh Lanta luxury villas for sale

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Welcome to Krabi Ho Ho Ho Merrry Christmaaass!!!

Ok, there you have it - how does that sound as you sit lounging in your lounger, gazing out at the heat, sand, ocean and lots of folks wearing not a lot? Feeling festive? No, don’t blame you. It’s hard to get into the Christmas spirit when the weather here in Krabi actually gets hotter and the days longer, as opposed to the opposite back “home”.

But hey - that’s no excuse not to go a bit nuts at this time, in fact it’s the best reason for a party and the Thai people grab this with both hands and run away with it. If you are looking for a little festive cheer at the end of the month, then take a peek at our special Christmas Eating Guide for places to stuff yourself silly with all manner of tasty tidbits.

We also have a regular, ever expanding guide to the best places to eat, drink and get away from it all, if that’s your bag.

This is a bumper 100 page edition, which had blood, sweat and more than a few tears in it’s making. It’s not all fun and games here at KM Towers, you know - we strive to get the best info for you to have the time of your life here in Krabi, and we live to tell the tale.

One of the highlights of the month of December is the Birthday of His Royal Majesty, King Bhumibol Adulyadej on Dec 9. This is a day for intense celebrations all over the Kingdom as the Thai population pay homage to their beloved monarch. It’s a wonderful day and a touching sight to see so many happy faces. A great run up to Christmas indeed.

Being a bumper issue, we have some major events for you. The Sheraton Adventure Race being one of the biggies of the month. We went along to witness the insane and not-

EDITOR: Paul Stretton krabimagazineeditor@gmail.com - 087 266 4876 DIRECTOR Pamela Huxley krabimagazinemarketing@gmail.com - 088 451 2178 MARKETING Zina krabimagazinemedia@gmail.com - 080 770 5734 POST-PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR: Thomas Gennaro krabimagazine@gmail.com - 089 908 5990 ART GROUP

Graphic Director: Nattapat Sunthonphuriwat [Pat®] tonidesign@gmail.com - 089 7727858 Design: Andy Dayton - daytonatdesign@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

Paul Stretton, Ekkehard Schwadtke, Punch Whitfield, Stewart Whitfield, Ton Company, Darren Johnson, Jeffrey Dietrich, Ben Cottrell

Krabi Magazine

December 2012– ISSUE 82 www.krabi-magazine.com © Krabi Magazine 2012

so-much pit their wits, endurance and relationships against one another in an amazing battle of fitness. The icing on the cake was the winner, a young lady from right here in Krabi - you can read all about it within.

Another young lady has a go at Thai massage for the first time and recounts her experience in hilarious detail for us to learn from. We get in the ring with resident Muay Thai Guy, “Doc” Docto as he trains a young man from the USA up to fight in the Ao Nang Stadium, and we even take a look at something blue and beautiful that eats bees.

As if this wasn’t enough, we throw in some new book releases, a crossword, info on real estate, visa tips, how to say things in Thai, restaurant reviews, Tech news, local happenings and a great section called “Meet the Locals” that takes a look at some of the colourful characters that have made Krabi their home.

As we all need a laugh now and again, we also included something to hopefully give you a giggle at the back.

How about that then? How good are we?

So from all of us here at Krabi Magazine, have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and we’ll see you in 2013.

Enjoy!

DISTRIBUTION AO NANG – KOH LANTA KOH PHI PHI – KRABI TOWN - KOH JUM KitDee Media & Design – 075 637459 DISTRIBUTION KOH SAMUI - PHUKET BANGKOK - CHIANG MAI - PATTAYA Bookazine - AsiaBooks Bangkok KitDee Media & Design Company Limited 247/13 Moo 5, Ao Nang, Krabi 81000 Tel: 075 661144 - 075 637459 - Fax: 075 637460 E-mail: krabimagazine@gmail.com www.facebook.com/krabimagazine 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: krabimagazine@gmail. com

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Please send submissions to: krabimagazineeditor@gmail.com

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.

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Contents december issue 82

2012

TRY YOUR THAI

10

Stop speaking slowly and loudly to the Thais - try out these handy phrases to impress your friends instead.

A WINDOW ON KRABI

12

Highlights of this amazing province: town to temples, beaches to Islands, natural hotspots to cultural places.

TOP 10 ACTIVITIES

28

16

Krabi Province is a haven for sun worshippers and pleasure seekers and is also one of the world’s best destinations for activities such as rock-climbing, scuba diving and kayaking.

HOTEL PR NEWS

18

Brands, products and services from our sponsoring hotels.

THE PULSE

22

Some local and International things of interest happening now.

VIEWPOINT 24 We get on our soapbox for a bit and have a blurt about things we think are worth debating.

30

TRAVEL ADVICE

26

Timetables, prices and general good advice on getting here and getting away again

THAI CUSTOMS

28

There are some pretty big “Dos” and “Most Definitely Do Nots” here, and it pays to tell them apart...

THE KING’S BIRTHDAY

30

We pull on our yellow shirt and take a look at His Royal Majesty as the whole country pays their respects.

EATING GUIDE

38

32

A selection of great places to go to eat and drink in the region. We’ve tested them ourselves, so we know. Yes, we do.

IT’S CHRISTMAS!

38

Yes, it is. So what’s the deal with yuletide in Thailand? Read on….

CHRISTMAS EATING GUIDE

40

We scour the area for places laying on traditional Christmas feasts for you. Tough job.

RESTAURANT REVIEW

44

More food? Why not. You’re on holiday, yes? We head over to Sheraton Krabi for an evening of wine pairing that ends in chaos! No, not really. It was fun though.

46

MEET THE LOCALS

46

Loving this section now as Krabi local ex-pat Stewart from Krabi Imaging grabs his camera and heads out to meet the weird and wonderful characters that live here.

ADVENTURE RACING

48

Krabi hosts it’s first ever Adventure Race. A what? Well, turn over and see.

MUAY THAI

48

50

Trainer Daniel “Doc” Docto mentors a young man from the US of A and he makes it all the way to the ring in Ao Nang stadium. Did he survive?

SECRET CORNER

53

This month we discover a little place that serves the best - the BEST Chiang Mai noodle soup. Right here in Ao Nang. Ha.

Contents december issue 82 HOLIDAY READS

55

There can be fewer finer things in life than to kick back with a good book. So we take a quick look at some new releases to keep you riveted on those long days on the beach.

CONSERVATION 56 Local volunteers at Projects Abroad take some amazing kids out for a few days of fun and education here in Krabi. Touching stuff.

KRABI VISA

59

Local lass in the know, Punch, tells us more little-known info on visas, work permits and more.

LOCAL PRODUCTS

56

60

We take a look at the One Tambon, One Product initiative to see how you can help the local community and bring home some tasty souvenirs at the same time.

KOH LANTA

66

Get the most out of Koh Lanta. Highlights, maps, reviews and articles: Koh Lanta Highlights: Lanta Features Activities: What to do on the paradisiacal isle. Yes, that is a word Resort Review: We get “Castawayed” and don’t ever want to be found…

Diving Review: Dive & Relax take us out for a dive, and we relax Health: A young lady tries Thai massage and lives to tell the tale Eating Guide: A guide to the best eats on the island

KOH JUM

60

78

Where? Exactly. That’s why we’re here.

Getting There: Well, do you know?

Nature: The Blue-Tailed Bee Eater under the microscope. Not literally, of course.

TECH NEWS

81

Recent developments in the tech world coming to Thailand.

REAL ESTATE

82

72

Purchasing and making real estate investments made simple with Krabi Magazine.

Architect Tips: Local architects Ton Company produce stunning homes Legal Matters: This month, we look at one way a foreigner can own land in Thailand Interior Design: Make your insides as pretty as the outside with Rattan furniture Quirks: Thai spirit houses. If you don’t know what they are, you need to.

RUSSIAN SECTION

92

4 pages of information in the Russian Language

JUST FOR FUN

75

96

Some amusing things we came across that we thought we’d share with you.

Worth a Thousand Words…: Funny signs from Thailand.

Words of Truth: You know you’ve been here too long when you laugh at any of these...

Krabi Magazine Around the World: We make it all the way somewhere else entirely!

Crossword: A crossword. Well, it is.

88

2012

Try your

Thai

Krabi is well-used to foreigners and most of the Thai people that

deal with tourists on a daily basis will have a smattering of English to get by. The employees at your resort, for example. But if you want to try out a little of their own language, you will be rewarded by even bigger smiles and even the odd giggle. The Thais really do appreciate you making an effort to speak their language and just the odd word here and there can make all the difference in your relationships with them.

If you plan on staying in Krabi for a little longer than a holiday, a great way to boost your vocabuary and become more integrated into the Thai way of life is to sign up for some Thai language lessons. These are usually small classes that make learning personal and fun, as well as giving you real motivation to get learning!

As an added bonus, you can get an Education visa that is valid for 1 year if you are studying the Thai language here.

Not a bad way to spend a year, in my opinion!

Hello (male speaker)...........................................“Sawadee Krap” Hello (female speaker)....................................... “Sawadee Kaa” How are you?..................................................... “Sabai Dee Mai?” I’m fine.............................................................................“Sabai Dee” How much is this?...............................................“A Nee Tao Rai?” What is this?..................................................................“Nee a Rai?” Yes............................................................................................... “Chai” No....................................................................................... “Mai Chai” Sorry/Excuse me............................................................. “Kor Toht” I can’t speak Thai............................... “Poot Passa Thai Mai Dai” Can you speak English?..“Khun Poot Passa Angrit Dai Mai?” I don’t understand..................................................“Mai Khao Jai” Do you understand?.............................................“Khao Jai Mai? Help!...................................................................... “Chooey Dooey!”

Spicy.............................................................................................. “Pet” Not spicy..............................................................................“Mai Pet” Is that tasty?................................................................. “A Roy Mai? Hot (Temperature).............................................................. “Rawn” Cold.............................................................................................. “Yen” Water....................................................................................... “Naam” Where is the restroom/toilet?.... “Hong Naam Yoo Tee Nai? Can I have the bill/check?...........................................“Kep Tang” Where are you going?..................................................... “Pai Nai? See you soon........................................................... “Pop Gan Mai”

And the one that rules them all - the 3 words that every Thai lives by and that can teach us stress-monkeys a thing or two about life…

It doesn’t matter No big deal Don’t worry about it Never mind

“Mai Pen Rai”

Alongkorn Language School Learn Thai the easy way!

Fully licensed by the MOE Experienced teacher with Thai Language Teaching Certification Develop Thai and Speaking skills in the fastest way Learning method includes textbook, exercises and many activities ED visa provided with 1 year Thai course

Numbers 1 - Noong 2 - Song 3 - Sam 4 - See 5 - Haa

6 - Hock 7 - Jet 8 - Ped 9 - Khao 10 - Sip

www.aonanglanguageschool.com Tel. 075-695-437 , 081-806-4493

Window

12

the beaches

NATURAL HOTSPOTS

Ao Nang, at 20km from Krabi Town, is the most developed of Krabi’s beaches, a long stretch of white sandy beach with limestone mountains as a backdrop. It has a wide range of accommodation and services and the main shopping street features restaurants, bars, pubs, souvenir shops, dive centers and tour agencies, massage centers and spas. 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 at weekends. 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.

Railay 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, rocky islands emerging from the sea. Railay can only be reached by boat, a 15 minutes ride from Ao Nang or 30 minutes from Krabi Town. Enjoy a cocktail in one of the beach bars, visit the Phranang Cave, challenge yourself on a rock climbing course, hike the limestone massif to a lagoon and a viewpoint, or simply chill out. Neighbouring Tonsai lies at the base of a cliff that divides it form Railay West. Tonsai has a shallow beach with slow gradients out to sea which is profoundly affected by the tide.

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 couples, it is here that you really get the so deserved repose, surrounded by pristine nature.

Tubkaek beach is another real place to hide away; long, clean and peaceful, the area has breathtaking views over Koh Hong islands archipelago, and charming sunsets. From there you can venture inside the National Park and try a walking trail to a viewpoint and a waterfall.

Koh Lanta beaches have a wide selection of resorts for all tastes and pockets. Lanta Yai island has long stretches of gleaming 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.

Limestone mountains or karsts characterize most of the inland Krabi area, the most spectacular being the massifs of Sai Tai. Susaan Hoi is a 40 million year-old seashell cemetery; once a large swamp where freshwater crustaceans proliferated, today home to 40 centimeter thick, shell encrusted limestone slabs, a geological uniqueness not far from Ao Nang. One must find a broken edge to see the shells clearly, since all of those on the upper surface have been walked on and worn down by the elements and are hard to identify.

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.

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

on krabi hundreds of birds’ species.

Phi Hua Toh Cave, in the nearby Bor Thor area, surrounded by mangrove swamps and reachable by boat or kayak, is where to see pre-historic rock paintings depicting animals and humans.

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 of Klong Thom, natural Jacuzzis in which to lift away tensions and relieve body and mind with the mineral enriched waters falling into rocky ponds.

THE ISLANDS Hop on or hire a longtail, the local wooden boats with their picturesque prows. Sail away to Koh Poda, surrounded by turquoise waters, or to Koh Kai, shaped as a chicken and therefore called the Chicken Island, from where a walk on a sandy pathway connects it to Koh Tub. Make a longtail boat or speedboat trip to the Koh Hong archipelago, a group of limestone islands with hidden caves and lagoons perfect for kayaking or snorkeling.

Join an organized tour to amazing Koh Phi Phi islands, full of marvelous bays, limestone cliffs, waters rich in marine life, caves where swallow nests are harvested, and much more.

Visit Koh Jum and Koh Siboya, small, unspoiled tropical hideaway that have a unique atmosphere. These islands give visitors the time to relax and re-charge their batteries. Or venture out on Koh Lanta, the developing island at the southern end of the province home to sea gypsies communities, where you will meet nature and tradition. A National Park area that comprises many different islands surrounded by coral reefs, such as Koh Ngai and remote Koh Rok.

THE CULTURE

Ban Natin, on the way from Ao Nang to Klong Muang, is the place to experience the peaceful lifestyle of the local Muslim community. Home accommodation is available, or you can simply make a stopover and see the production of handmade products such as batik paintings, pineapple-fiber paper and coconut shell carving.

Wat Klong Thom Museum features various kinds of beads, stone tools, and stone and earthen ornaments in animal shapes of approximately 5,000 years old, uncovered during archeological excavations.

Fire dancing, part of the beach culture, is a popular evening activity on the beaches of Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi, performed by acrobatic boys who swing burning torches around their bodies, creating sparkling artistic pictures.

Ban Sang-Ka-U is a sea gypsy’s settlement in south-east Lanta Yai. It is there that an old clan of traditional v Ley try to preserve a disappearing way of life in this fast-developing island.

THE TOWN Small, charming, silent at times, nice for a day’s walking tour.

Krabi Town is full of old buildings, bars and restaurants, local exotic marketplaces and food stalls at the old Chao Fa pier where to sample the local food. The Krabi motto is: “lively town, lovely people”; Krabi’s simple people are definitely proud of their town and of their warm and generous character. Hop on a longtail boat at Chao Fa pier and visit Khao Kanab Nam, the unique pair of hills facing each other on the opposite banks of the Krabi River, symbols of the town; or embark on a journey to Koh Klang, an island next to town on the mouth of the river, where you will experience lives lived by the local fishing communities; or charter a boatman for a visit to the mangrove backwaters.

13

The Pelican Advert Full Page

14

THAI MADE EASY If you’ve never learned a new language, the very idea of it may seem intimidating. The learning environment is important for the student to obtain and retain, while discovering the joy of speaking the Thai language. All of our teachers are native Thai nationals who are able to teach you to understand and speak Thai easily. If you want to have fun while learning then ALS is for you.

Learning a new language can take years. ALS can help to make this a simple and fun process. We believe that the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing can be taught to you quickly through the ALS method.

We will get you beyond simple greetings of “Hello”, “Sawasdee ka”, to a place where you can communicate, read and write in Thai with ease.

Alongkorn Language School (ALS) has established a new location in the heart of Ao Nang, Krabi. The atmosphere in the classroom as well as the learning facilities provide a quality learning environment. We offer a variety of teaching techniques to provide unique learning methods. Our classes are student centered and focus on student participation. Allowing only up to 5 students per class, we provide you with one on one time as well as the opportunity to practice what you are learning. Individual classes are also available. We offer short course study of 10, 20 or 40 hours, at an affordable cost. You have the option of choosing the day and hours you want to learn.

If you are already a student of the Thai language and want to increase your knowledge to an intermediate or advanced level, with consent from the Ministry of Education, ALS can provide you with advanced language training. ALS can provide an ED visa for students who want to advance their Thai language acquisition. We will assist you in preparing the necessary documentation to help guide you through the application process. Regardless of your nationality, we are here for you. Students are required to study at ALS for one year at 4 hours per week, 1-2 days per week.

Visit our website or visit the school at

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15

top 10 Krabi Activities

Kayaking This is a hugely popular activity in Krabi. The mangroves, caves and of course the beaches, provide plenty of great opportunities for kayaking. The Ao Nang/Railay area is popular as it’s close and convenient but if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, book yourself on a tour to Ao Thalane or Bor Thor in Tarn Boke Koranee National Park. The caves, grottoes and lagoons make for a great day of fun and adventure.

Wat Tham Suea A hike to Wat Tham Seua, otherwise known as Tiger Cave Temple is exhausting, exhilarating and ultimately hugely rewarding.

Once you’ve climbed the 1,257 steps that lead to the hilltop temple, you’ll be met by stunning views over the surrounding Thai countryside having been transformed into swathes of lush greenery by the monsoon rain. Combine the temple with trips to other destinations like Sa Morakot or visit as a separate Krabi Town day trip and combine with trips to the market.

SUNSET STROLL ALONG AO NANG ESPLANADE/ NOPPHARAT THARA BEACH Sunsets over Ao Nang and Nopharrat Thara are probably some of the best you are ever likely to see. The monsoon rain brings

16

Krabi Province is a haven for sun worshippers and pleasure seekers and is also one of the world’s best destinations for activities such as rock-climbing, scuba diving and kayaking. Krabi Magazine gives you our top 10 list of activities to try here in Krabi: storm clouds that hang ominously in the sky, creating spectacular sunsets that bathe the bay in a sumptuous light. Walk along the esplanade to get some great views of the longtail boats bobbing on the water, or just sit on a bench and watch as the sky transforms.

Evening in the Last Fisherman Bar After a sunset stroll there’s no better way to finish off your evening than chatting over a cocktail or two or indulging in some great seafood. If you finish your walk in Ao Nang continue along the road by the police box until you come to the Last Fisherman Bar, one of Ao Nang’s best night-spots. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink by the ocean. The seafood restaurants at the other side of Ao Nang Beach or by the very end of Noppharat Thara beach are a must for local fish fare.

Rock climbing and Railay Beach Combine a trip to Railay Beach with some rock climbing and serious beach time and then sample some of the local nightlife. Krabi is among the World’s best destinations for climbing. The Railay peninsula is home to the local climbing scene and is considered a mecca for the sport. There are hundreds of bolted routes in the Railay area as well as rock-climbing schools that can provide guides and equipment. Railay, once the sole preserve of backpackers, has

become a favourite holiday destination, combining 2 world class beaches, excellent dining and some funky after hours haunts to down a few bottles of local brew.

Markets Experiencing the hustle and bustle of a local market is great fun.

Krabi and Ao Nang are blessed with some great markets, with Krabi town boasting the largest covered market in southern Thailand. There’s a market operating on any given day of the week selling everything from fruit and vegetables, household items, clothes and shoes, snacks, BBQ meat, Muslim curries and more.

Try the Thursday market or Saturday markets in Klong Haeng.

Sa Morakot A trip to Sa Morakot or the ‘Crystal Pool’ can be combined with trips to other beauty spots such as the hot springs. The so called ‘Emerald Pool’ is fed by a natural spring and gets its name from the glorious colour of its water. Perfect for swimming, it makes a great day out and a nice break from the beach. The rainy season is a great time to go as there is more water and less people. The best way to visit is on a tour, making it easy to combine it with a trip to nature’s own hot tub – the namtok ron (hot springs) a series of splash pools fed by a natural thermal spring.

Koh Hong Archipelago No trip to Krabi or Ao Nang is complete without a trip to Koh Hong, the stunning group of islands lying off the Krabi coast. The beaches of Kong Hong never cease to amaze visitors with their crystal clear water and stunning white sand. The beaches in Ao Nang can become rough and windy in the wet season, but the beaches on the islands lying in the Andaman Sea remain calm and good for swimming. Koh Hong has two glorious beaches, a lagoon and national park land – a real island paradise.

Local Nightlife If drinking prodigious amounts of local brew is on your agenda then seek out one of Krabi Town or Ao Nang’s more lively night spots. In Ao Nang, Luna Bar is a popular joint for movers who want to bust some shapes on the dancefloor. Vodka or whiskey buckets are usually the order of the day. If you want to party ‘Thai style’, then head to Centerpoint in Ao Nang or Kansas Saloon in Krabi Town. With lots of whiskey on ice flowing, these places are an experience. Live music, dj sets and semi-clad dancing girls are what you can expect. For a less salubrious night out, try Soi Salai opposite McDonald’s in Ao Nang. This clusters of neon-lit ‘beer-bars’ are often friendly and good fun and many have cable TV and free pool on offer. The next place for entertainment are the bamboo huts opposite Siam Commercial Bank for a relaxed chillout evening.

Longtail boat trip to Krabi mangroves The mangroves that fringe the coastline of the various islands divided by the maze of canals are thick and impenetrable. A nature longtail boat tour of the Krabi mangroves-populated canals, with great views of local wildlife and scenery, will enhance your Krabi experience. Charter a boat driver at Chaofa old pier for the longtail trip, usually lasting 3 hours.

17

Pimalai Resort & Spa, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the world, has just been voted “Winner 2012 Luxury Villa Resort - for the Kingdom of Thailand” at the annual World Luxury Hotel Awards. This is the third year in row that Pimalai scoops awards – for the resort & for its spa - it at this prestigious event.

The World Luxury Hotel Awards gives recognition and thanks to the hotel industry. The award stands testimony to dedication, enthusiasm and leadership in the high demand luxury hotel industry. The independent judging process was based on hotel guest votes and the feedback and votes from a selected global panel of hotel industry professionals.

Pimalai, a stunning beach resort property, and a pioneer of deluxe hospitality on the island of Lanta in Krabi province, is set on 25 hectares of lush tropical land with direct access to 900 meters of pristine beach. It boasts exceptional facilities, including Deluxe rooms, Suites and Pool Villas, numerous restaurants & bars, conference facilities, an award winning spa, a Gold Palm PADI scuba diving center and a wide range of recreational facilities.

The name “Pimalai’ is a derivation of the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit and translates, appropriately, as “A little patch of Heaven”; Pimalai brings you a different kind of luxury; “the luxury of being in a unique and exclusive environment, without all the fuss that goes with it”; “The luxury of experiencing an out of the beaten track destination”; finally “the luxury of being pampered by island natives people who have retained this unique genuine & friendly way in not only performing their duties, but bringing that little extra that makes the difference”.

Peace, Serenity, Solitude….. These are the words that come to mind for Pimalai. Add to that elegance, natural surroundings and genuine friendly service. Be it for a honeymoon or a break from it all, Pimalai nestled in a lush tropical forest, is the destination to set your sights on. The resort combines all the right ingredients – subtle five star comfort, natural beauty, far from the crowds, with no noise except the sound of the waves sliding in and out and slowly breaking onto a pristine sandy shore.

One of Koh Lanta’s beaches, the stunning and pristine Kantiang bay that is the location for Pimalai Resort & Spa

Asia’s Leading Spa Resort & Asia’s Leading Boutique Beach Resort

Christmas at Amari Vogue, Krabi

Mr. Graham Cooke (1st from right) President & Founder, World Travel Awards (WTA) was pictured presenting an award to Mr. Stefan Heintze (2nd from left) General Manager of Layana Resort & Spa for winning the “2012 Asia’s Leading Spa Resort & Asia’s Leading Boutique Beach Resort”. The awards ceremony was held in the Grand Ballroom of the Intercontinental in Singapore.

Dreamt of celebrating Christmas on sandy white shores cocooned by the tranquil blue of the Andaman Sea? Amari Vogue’s special Christmas package offers a variety of excellent benefits including round-trip airport transfer and a 20% discount at our Breeze Spa, perfect for your winter in the sun. Book now and share lifetime memories at Amari Vogue Krabi.

World Travel Award (WTA) is a prestigious body awarding top performers in the Travel and Tourism Industry. The grand ceremony was attended by many hotels & resorts, travel agencies, tour operators and airlines from across the Asian Region. Amongst the many Spa & Boutique Beach Resorts in Asia and Australasia, Layana Resort & Spa takes pride in being chosen to be this year’s number ONE resort in Asia.

Each package includes:

With the utmost and ongoing commitment to our guests and partners, Layana will continue to maintain our high standard of service to retain this position awarded as the most preferred resort in Asia.

About Layana Resort & Spa

Layana Resort & Spa is an exclusive boutique resort facing a fine white sandy beach and set against a picturesque backdrop of forested hills. Laid out amid tropical gardens and designed to harmonize perfectly with its natural surroundings, the resort comprises of low-rise, contemporary Thai-style buildings that combine spaciousness with an open, cool and natural ambience. The guests have the opportunity to appreciate an idyllic island world far from the pressures of the city. As an exclusive haven of luxury, Layana Resort & Spa aims to offer the ultimate in individualized service. Throughout, guests appreciate the hospitality that is unobtrusive to preserve privacy, and yet attentive to give a sense of privilege and to fulfill every wish.

• Round-trip Krabi Airport Transfer • Round-trip airport transfer from Krabi Airport by car or minivan. On your arrival, meet our representative holding an Amari Vogue Krabi placard at the arrival area.

• Enjoy free access to our hotel kayaks to use during your stay. (Subject to availability).

• Enjoy a 20% Discount on Spa Treatments at Breeze Spa. Not applicable to any promotion/ special events/functions or mini-bar.

• 3 nights in Deluxe Room • Extra Nights at Normal Internet rate Package Available from 22 Dec 2012 - 26 Dec 2012 from 42,500 THB for a Deluxe Room.

About Amari

Amari is the centrepiece of the ONYX portfolio of hotel brands reflecting the warmth and energy of an evolving modern Asia. Amari’s network of properties spans Thailand and beyond, from scenic seaside locations to vibrant urban settings including Bangkok, Pattaya, Koh Chang, Samui, Phuket, Krabi, and Hua Hin. New Amari properties scheduled to open in 2012 and 2013 include Amari Hua Hin, Amari Doha in Qatar, and Amari Ludhiana in India. Visit www.amari. com

19

Maprao Lounge

Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort launchs the newest venue in december

“Maprao Lounge” A beachfront lounge perfectly located for daily sunset celebrations. Sip sparkling wine, Sofitel signature cocktails or soft drinks along with various canapés served fresh every day.

Soak up the relaxing atmosphere combined with stunning views of the tropical gardens & Andaman Islands - Comfortable beanbags & the perfect mix of chilled out tunes – the place to enjoy happy hour before dinner time.

Maprao Lounge Open everyday until Sunset Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort 200 Moo3 Klong Muang Beach, Nongtalay, Muang Krabi THAILAND 81000 Tel: 075-627800 Fax: 075-627899 fbsales@sofitelphokeethrakrabi.com

21

The pulse TPL stars attract attention from European giants

Ao Nang Beach to Get “Safe Zone” and Security Cameras

SCG Muang Thong United’s Teerasil Dangda and Buriram United’s Frank Acheampong, two of the best strikers in the Thai Premier League, could be heading for Europe.

It has come to light that the Tourism Authority of Thailand is going to establish a “safety zone” on Ao Nang beach in an effort to bolster confidence after a rape case hit the headlines earlier this year.

TAT Krabi office director, Wiyada Srirangkul, said the office will partner with the province and the private sector to set up a safety zone at Ao Nang bay after a the Dutch father of the 19 year old victim posted a song on YouTube on how the police responded to his daughter’s rape.

The video showed images of the man suspected of the crime, who was apparently freed on bail shortly after arrest.

TAT also stated that there would be an increased police presence in and around the beach areas.

Tourism and Sports Minister, Chumpol Silpa-archa, said he has ordered the tourism office to revive tourist confidence, but said very little about the increase in crime against tourists, especially attacks on single women travellers.

Muang Thong striker Teerasil Dangda, right, could be sent to Spain or the Netherlands on loan.

Director Ronnarit Suewaja said TPL champions Muang Thong were ready to release Thailand striker Teerasil to join Spain’s high-flying club Atletico Madrid or Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven on loan.

“We want our players to play in Europe,” Ronnarit said. “We may allow him to join Atletico Madrid or PSV Eindhoven on loan. Both clubs are our partners and he should get around 500,000 a season.

“We are not Real Madrid or Barcelona. We are ready to sell any player if the price is right. We have sold some of our good players and been able to find their replacements.”

The season ended on Sunday with Muang Thong completing an unbeaten campaign in which they scored in every game.

Teerasil was the joint top scorer with BEC Tero Sasana’s Cleiton Silva, each finding the net 24 times.

Direct Flights to Southern Thailand from London Thompson Holidays brand TUI plans to commence direct fights from several airports in the UK to destinations including Phuket from this time next year. With the addition of 8 brand new Boeing 787 “Dreamliner” aircraft in the wings, this is going to be the first UK holiday company offering direct flights from the UK. The Dreamliner airliner uses groundbreaking technology to burn up to 20% less in fuel than aircraft of similar sizes, as well as being faster with a cruising speed of Mach 0.85 Bookings for Thomson and First Choice holidays on Dreamliner flights opened in November 2012. A source close to the airline’s management reported there had already been unprecedented interest in the forthcoming service.

Central World on 4 October, 2012.

He did claim that the ministry would provide 200 million THB from its 2013 fiscal year budget to install CCTV in popular tourist destinations including Ao Nang.

Police in Krabi uploaded their own video clip to YouTube, Monday, called “The Truth from Krabi” to explain legal process in connection with the sexual assault of the Dutch tourist by a Thai tour guide. They attempted to counter the claim by the victim’s father that the authorities allowed “easy” bail for the suspect.

But it had a single, incredible short-coming. The four-anda-half minute clip was in the Thai language, with no English subtitles to present the police message to an international audience.

Police argued that Krabi’s tourism was damaged by the “Evil Man from Krabi” clip posted on the internet last month by the father of the 19-year-old model, while there was no mention of empathy for the victim. Critics claim the authorities’ response is a standard one in the face of a highly publicized issue.

According to the father, the tour guide was able to avoid the police for about a month and then he was allowed “easy” bail by the authorities after his capture. He also claimed in the song there were other violent incidents in the Ao Nang area involving tourists that he said were covered up by the authorities.

However, the Krabi police argue that they strictly followed legal process and that the laws in Thailand and the Netherlands are different.

The police said the father of the rape victim might not understand the Thai justice system and that led him to create the “Evil Man from Krabi” video.

However, the police explained the system in Thai language only and that is likely to backfire on them as a callous and demeaning response lacking respect for rape victims, or providing any meaningful information for those who cannot understand Thai.

In the interim, it is unclear when the increased safety conditions in Ao Nang will be implemented.development!

Local & National news that matters to you

Agents count on China market

Bangkok launches cycle rental

China continues to be the strongest market for Thailand’s inbound tour operators according to the latest data released by the Association of Thai Travel Agents.

The association’s member companies handled 2,761,415 international tourists at Suvarnabhumi Airport in the first 10 months of 2012 representing an improvement of 11.36% on 2,479,733 visits during the same period last year.

ATTA released its data based on fees member agencies pay to the airport to provide a meet-and-greet service for international clients. It is considered an accurate barometer of how the country’s traditional tour firms are performing, but is limited to travel through Bangkok.

For January to October this year, China continued to be the strongest supplier for travel agencies, with 804,261 trips increasing 46.87% from 547,601 trips during the same period last year.

There was a decline of 2.66% in the Russian market (second place) on 342,750 trips compared to 352,123 trips in the previous year.

Bangkok kicked off its first bicycle rental project to encourage cycle commuting as an alternative mode of transport in the heart of the city.

But very little was said during the media launch about the serious negatives Bangkok’s streets present leading off with safety, weather and pollution that are formidable obstacles that could derail the project.

Indian Film Industry Awards Thailand as Best International Destination for Film-Making Mumbai, November, 2012: The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) received the most coveted ‘Best Destination International’ Award on behalf of Thailand at the prestigious “Cinemascape” hosted in Mumbai on 24th-25th October, 2012 at Trident, Nariman Point, Mumbai. Now in its 6th year, Cinemascape is the annual gathering of the Indian film fraternity & small screen patrons’ to meet with international tourism destination promoters. This year’s show, organized in concurrence with the 14th Mumbai Film Festival, was attended by representatives from Thailand Film Office, Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Thailand, and the TAT.

Accepting the award on behalf of the TAT, Ms. Suladda Sarutilavan, Assistant Director of TAT Mumbai Office, said, “Thailand is one of the few international locations today which has established a niche in the Indian mainstream cinema. About 464 Indian films were shot in Thailand in during January to September 2012 alone, the second highest number after Japan.

Indian filmmakers tell us they find great variety of locations with attractions ranging from shopping, nightlife, eco-tourism products, beaches, culture, and cuisine. Extremely good costs and high professionalism of the production crew are also major contributing factors. We are ecstatic to have received this award and extend our thanks to the Indian film industry”.

Bangkok deputy governor, Teerachon Manomaiphibul, said city hall aims to encourage people to use public transport instead of private cars to help the city’s environment and ease traffic jams. Cycles for hire are part of the campaign to encourage residents to use them for short hops.

The project will expand to 50 stations with 500 commuter cycles in inner city areas by February next year.

The three major challenges for the service are the capital’s weather, air pollution and its notorious traffic. Heat, humidity, pollution from twostroke motorcycles and poorly maintained buses; and lack of an adequate bicycle lane infrastructure currently pose serious challenges to the success of the project.

Boossabakorn Spa has the perfect location for enjoying a totally memorable spa experience.

We are located just 5 minutes from the bustling centre of Ao Nang and only 40 minutes from Krabi Airport.

Find your oasis of calm and tranquility at Boossabakorn Spa.

Free trasfer from your hotel

The pulse TAT Launches “Thainess” Concept in Indonesia The Tourism Authority of Thailand is anticipating a significant increase in arrivals from Indonesia, the largest country in ASEAN, after a successful participation in the country’s largest consumer travel fair in early November.

The annual fair, Garuda Indonesia Travel Fair (GATF), is organised by Indonesia’s national airline, Garuda Indonesia, to promote its domestic and international destinations.

This year, it was attended by an estimated 60,000 middleincome Indonesian consumers looking to take advantage of special offers and discount deals offered by more than 100 exhibitors, including travel agents and overseas tourism boards.

This was the second year of TAT’s participation. In order to stand out amidst the competition, the TAT highlighted its primary marketing theme, the concept of “Thainess,” with Thai cultural performances and Thai Fine Arts demonstration by artists and performers from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya Rajabhat University and Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre. This proved to be of great interest to the visitors.

Mr. Nithee Seeprae, director of the TAT Jakarta Office, said, “We see a lot of growth potential for Indonesian market, especially in the buildup to the ASEAN Economic Community. Indonesians don’t need visas to visit Thailand and there are numerous low-cost airlines operating between Jakarta, Surabaya, Medan, and Denpasar to Bangkok and Phuket.”

He added, “This year was a good opportunity for us to

present the concept of Thainess to the Indonesian market.

We specifically highlighted the Loi Krathong Festival which will be held nationwide at the end of November, as well as new products and attractions for kids and family in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket. Both are very important for the Indonesian family market.”

Mr. Nithee noted that as two million Indonesians visit Malaysia and Singapore each year, the time is ripe for them to travel beyond and see Thailand.

In 2011, arrivals from Indonesia numbered 370,681, up by 29.76%. Their expenditure per person per day was 4,500 baht (US$147) with average length of stay of six days.

In January-October 2012, Thailand welcomed 361,964 Indonesian visitors, up 14.81% over the same period of 2011 and is projected at over 420,000 for the full year, Mr. Nithee said.

Top five destinations for Indonesian visitors are Bangkok, Pattaya, Hat Yai, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. On the aviation front, as of November 2012, there were 57 direct scheduled flights per week between Thailand and Indonesia being operated by five airlines – Thai Airways International, Garuda Indonesia, Thai AirAsia, AirAsia (Indonesia), and Mandala Airlines.

Mr. Nithee complimented the fair organisers, Garuda Indonesia, noting that the airline was undergoing a significant change as part of a strategy known as “Quantum Leap 2015.” This involves a sweeping upgrade of all products and services, expansion of the fleet and route-net and improved distribution channels.

Viewpoint As much as it pains me to have to sit down and write this, we here at Krabi Magazine felt that we should throw in our two pennies worth on recent and disturbing events that have occured right on our doorstep.

There is a better than average chance that you have at least heard about the attacks on young tourists in the Ao Nang Area.

The most recent of which was the brutal hacking of a young man and his girlfriend with machetes and knives one night on the Noppharathara road.

The young man in question, Jack Cole and his girlfriend, April Clifton, thankfully survived the ordeal and they are now back in the UK with their families, recuperating and - no doubt - reflecting on their experience.

It was a horrific, unprovoked attack by several teenagers wielding these large knives that sparked outrage in the community and across the world. It’s fair enough that some are now seriously re-considering their forthcoming trips to our shores because of this story, which has made it as far as the British press. But is this warranted?

I have spent almost 4 years here in Ao Nang and have spoken to many residents that have been here for a lot longer than I. One of them, Andy Chan from the Ao Nang Haven Guesthouse here had a point of view that puts things into perspective. He said: “The attack happened near Nopparathara Pier which is a few kilometres from Ao Nang Beach. Just to give you a background, almost the entire stretch of Nopparathara beach is poorly lit and very dark after sun fall. The place also sees very little pedestrian traffic at night.

The couple had been staying on Phai Plong Beach - the private beach where the luxury Centara Grand Beach Resort is located.

The resort is mostly only accessible by boat except for a trail that leads to it. The resort thus provides free boat shuttle service from Nopparathara Pier on certain timings in the evening so their guests can return to the resort after spending their evening in Ao Nang.

Sadly, nobody can totally prevent this sort of an attack, be it whether you are in Thailand, Europe or America. Danger lurks in the darkness. While Ao Nang is generally safe, no one should take safety for granted. Let’s wish the couple a quick recovery...

minding their own business when the attack happened - it’s what we can do as outsiders to this country to protect ourselves from mindless - and mindless is what this was - violence that befell these two.

In our home countries, only the insane and murderous start hacking random strangers in the street with machetes - or have I been away for too long?

Here, these people are very different from us, with as polar a background as you can possibly imagine.

15 - 20 years ago there was no “Ao Nang” as you see it today.

Rubber trees, coconuts, monkeys and fishermen were the predecessors to the bars, restaurants, parties and plastic of today.

Such an enormous change has happened to these people in such a relatively short period of time, it’s easy - and misleading - to assume that this is a home-away-from-home that we can wander through at will, with emergency services just a phone call away to rush to our aid if need be.

That’s not the case.

Yes, there are police and medical services that, in this case thankfully, were on the scene very quickly. For several days after the attack they were stopping and searching local teenagers on motorbikes, the results of which caught some of the gang.

But we need to appreciate that this is still an emerging society that has had to adapt rapidly to the Tourist Trade, and this is going to take time to bolster and refine.

We love this place, which is why we want to stand in it’s corner at this time, and to let you know we are not afraid. Fear will not win out on this, but common sense will.

Ao Nang and Krabi is one of the most spectacular, beautiful and unforgettable places in the world in it’s location, scenery, geology and local Thais that have made it what it is.

The last thing we want is for those that want to see it’s wonders be frightened off by the inane actions of a few teenagers.

This is an isolated incident where safety has been taken for granted. Having said that though, crime is definitely not tolerated in Ao Nang. Tourists and locals alike are advised to be careful when travelling in poorly lit places such as Nopparathara Beach and other places away from the main Ao Nang Beach. Police have already acted swiftly and have caught the culprits. Authorities have also checked and replace any faulty street lamps in the area.”

While Ao Nang is generally safe, no one should take safety for granted.

There is a lot of sense in his statement and visitors to our town need to be aware that, as with most places after dark, extra vigilance is needed. This may seem like a slap in the face to those that come here looking for a getaway from the crime and violence of other countries, but it’s unfortunately just as present here and this needs to be realised and addressed.

• For any emergency - Dial 1669

Common-sense should prevail and if you keep your wits about you, stay on well-lit paths after dark and travel in pairs, the odds are in your favour. This has long been the mantra for any selfrespecting traveller in SE Asia since time immemorial, and it stands as a testament now more than ever.

I understand and completely appreciate that these may seem like empty words to Jack and April who were harming no one and

Remember this and your time here will be nothing short of spectacular!

Handy Numbers • TAT (Tourism Authority of Thailand) Regional Office: 075 622 163 • Krabi Tourist Police: 075 611 111 • Ao Nang Tourist Police: 075 637 208 • Marine Police: 07.561.2756 and 2757 • Krabi Airport 7 km east of Krabi Town: 075 636 541 and 6549 • Immigration: 075 611 097 • Krabi Hospital: 075 611 202, 075 611 210, 075 611 220 • Krabi Bus Terminal in Krabi Town: 075 611 804 and 1184

25

Flight Times

AK 1968/ 1969

TG 745/ 746

PG 265/ 266

FD 3225/ 3226

TG 743/ 744

TG 741/ 742

FD 3227/ 3228

15:00

13:40

13:35

13:15

11:45

09:30

08:25

08:00

ARR.

15:50

15:30

14:25

14:10

13:45

12:15

10:00

08:55

09:10

DEP.

FD 3223/ 3224

TR 2182/ 2183

AK 1968/ 1969

TG 745/ 746

PG 265/ 266

FD 3225/ 3226

TG 743/ 744

TG 741/ 742

FD 3227/ 3228

DK 5913/ 5914

DK 5913/ 8014F

FLT NO.

17:00

16:20

15:20

15:00

13:40

13:35

13:15

11:45

09:30

08:25

08:00

06:20

06:20

ARR.

19:55

17:40

16:50

15:50

15:30

14:25

14:10

13:45

12:15

10:00

08:55

09:10

07:55

07:10

DEP.

TR 2182/ 2183

AK 1968/ 1969

TG 745/ 746

PG 265/ 266

FD 3225/ 3226

TOM 746/ 747

TOM 746/ 747F

TG 743/ 744

BLX 843/ 844

BLX 843/ 844F

TG 741/ 742

FD 3227/ 3228

DK 1921/ 8922F

DK 1921/ 1922

FLT NO.

15:00

13:40

13:35

13:15

11:45

10:50

10:50

09:30

08:45

08:45

08:25

08:00

06:55

06:45

ARR.

15:30

14:25

14:10

13:45

12:15

12:50

12:50

10:00

10:45

10:45

08:55

09:10

07:45

08:00

DEP.

TG 739/740

FD 3221/ 3222

FD 3219/ 3220

TG 747/ 748

FD 3223/ 3224

TR 2182/ 2183

AK 1968/ 1969

TG 745/ 746

PG 265/ 266

FD 3225/ 3226

TG 743/ 744

TG 741/ 742

FD 3227/3228

FLT NO.

19:50

19:25

17:00

16:20

15:20

15:00

13:40

13:35

13:15

11:45

09:30

08:25

08:00

ARR.

20:35

19:55

17:40

16:50

15:50

15:30

14:25

14:10

13:45

12:15

10:00

08:55

09:10

DEP.

THURSDAY

TR 2182/ 2183 15:20 16:50 TG 747/ 748 19:25

WEDNESDAY

FD 3223/ 3224 16:20 17:40 FD 3219/ 3220

TUESDAY

TG 747/ 748 17:00 19:55 FD 3221/ 3222

MONDAY

FD 3219/ 3220 19:25 20:35

FLT NO.

FD 3221/ 3222 19:50

TR 2182/ 2183

AK 1968/ 1969

TG 745/ 746

PG 265/ 266

FD 3225/ 3226

TG 743/ 744

TG 741/ 742

FD 3227/3228

16:20

15:20

15:00

13:40

13:35

13:15

11:45

09:30

08:25

08:00

ARR.

19:55

17:40

16:50

15:50

15:30

14:25

14:10

13:45

12:15

10:00

08:55

09:10

DEP.

TG 739/740

FD 3221/ 3222

FD 3219/ 3220

TG 747/ 748

FD 3223/ 3224

AK 1968/ 1969

TG 745/ 746

PG 265/ 266

TR 2182/ 2183

FD 3225/ 3226

TG 743/ 744

TG 741/ 742

FD 3227/3228

FLT NO.

19:50

19:25

17:00

16:20

15:20

13:40

13:35

13:15

21:15

11:45

09:30

08:25

08:00

ARR.

20:35

19:55

17:40

16:50

15:50

14:25

14:10

13:45

12:45

12:15

10:00

08:55

09:10

DEP.

TG 747/ 748

FD 3223/ 3224

TR 2182/ 2183

AK 1968/ 1969

TG 745/ 746

PG 265/ 266

FD 3225/ 3226

TOM 456/ 457F

TOM 432/ 433F

TG 743/ 744

TG 741/ 742

FD 3227/ 3228

TOM 432/ 433

FLT NO.

16:20

15:20

15:00

13:40

13:35

13:15

11:45

11:00

10:45

09:30

08:25

08:00

06:55

ARR.

16:50

15:50

15:30

14:25

14:10

13:45

12:15

13:00

12:45

10:00

08:55

09:10

09:35

DEP.

AK = AIR ASIA (KUALA LUMPUR) TR = TIGER AIRWAYS (SINGAPORE) BLX = TUIFLY NORDIC (DENMARK, SWEDEN, FINLAND) DK = THAMAS COOK AIRLINES (SWEDEN, NORWAY) TOM = THOMPSON AIRWAYS (HELSINKI, ARLANDA)

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

TG = THAI AIRWAYS SMILE (BANGKOK) FD = THAI AIR ASIA (Don Muang, Bangkok) PG = BANGKOK AIREAYS (SAMUI)

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS

TG 739/740

16:50

15:50 17:40

15:20 16:20

19:55

FD 3223/ 3224

17:00

20:35

20:35

TG 747/ 748

19:25

19:50

FD 3219/ 3220

19:50

TG 739/ 740

TG 739/ 740

FD 3221/ 3222

FD 3223/ 3224

17:00

20:35

SUNDAY

TG 747/ 748

19:25

SATURDAY

FD 3219/ 3220

19:50

FRIDAY

FD 3221/ 3222

19:55

17:40 20:35

17:00 19:25

FD 3219/ 3220

19:50

00:05

FD 3221/ 3222

23:25

TG 739/ 740

8B977/ 8B977

TG 739/740

FLT NO.

Travel Tips Full Page

Getting Around There are busses, taxis, tuk-tuks, motorcycles, minivans, coaches, scooters, sawng-thaws, longtails, speedboats and more all awaiting you with a smile. What can be tricky sometimes is knowing how much a trip costs, where to buy your tickets and how long a journey should take - things that are starting to become more obvious now than they were before.

From Krabi Airport

Air-Con Bus

Nice, clean, air-con cars are available to take you anywhere you want to go and can carry up to 4 people. Or you can buy a seat in a minivan for less, but as it can take up to 10 people you may have to wait until they fill it.

There is now a regular shuttle bus that runs between the airport and popular destinations like those mentioned above. It also stops at piers where ferries leave for places like Railay and Tonsai.

This can be a great option if you are on a budget, but can take a while to get to where you want to go.

Car

Minivan

Car

Krabi Town

350

600

Krabi Bus Station

80

Ao Nang

600

1050

Krabi Town

90

Klong Muang

700

1100

Lanta Pier

90

Tub Kaek

800

1200

Ao Nang

150

Railay Pier

150

Tonsai Pier

150

Phuket - Aonang Phuket - Aonang Phuket - Railay (pass Ao nang) Phuket - Railay (pass Ao nang) Phuket - Lanta (pass Ao nang , Railay) Phuket - Phi Phi

O/W O/W O/W O/W O/W O/W

Ao Nang - Phi Phi Ao Nang - Lanta Ao Nang - Phuket Ao Nang - Phuket

O/W O/W O/W O/W

Railay - Phi Phi Railay - Lanta Railay - Phuket Railay - Phuket

O/W O/W O/W O/W

Phi Phi - Phuket Phi Phi - Railay Phi Phi - Ao Nang

O/W O/W O/W

Lanta - Railay Lanta - Ao Nang Lanta - Phuket (pass Railay,AoNang)

O/W O/W O/W

Depart. Arrive.

08.30 - 10.15 am.

13.30 - 15.30 pm.

08.30 - 10.45 am.

13.30 - 15.45 pm.

08.30 - 12.45 pm.

08.30 - 10.00 am.

Depart. Arrive.

09.30 - 11.30 am.

10.30 - 12.45 pm.

10.30 - 12.30 pm.

15.30 - 17.30 pm.

Depart. Arrive.

09.45 - 11.30 am.

10.45 - 12.45 am.

10.30 - 12.30 pm.

15.15 - 17.30 pm.

Depart. Arrive.

14.30 - 16.00 pm.

15.30 - 16.45 pm.

15.30 - 17.00 pm.

Depart. Arrive.

13.30 - 15.15 pm.

13.30 - 15.30 pm.

13.30 - 17.30 pm.

243 Moo 2, Ao Nang Beach, A. Muang, Krabi 81000 Tel: (66) 075-637152/3, 075-637730 Fax: 075-637153 60/57 Moo 3, T. Rassada, A. Muang, Phuket 83000 Tel: (66) 076-353211-2 Fax: 76-353212

www.aonangtravel.co.th

27

Thai

Customs Thailand is one of those countries that have customs very different to what we might be used to in our home countries - and the Thais are extremely proud of that.

As we are a visitor in their country, it’s only right and proper that we take a little time to understand some local customs - does and don’ts - that can make a huge difference in your encounters with the locals. They will really appreciate you making the effort and it can go a long way in making your stay here more fulfilling.

H

ere are a few of the more important things to remember - they are simple, cost nothing and are all based in common sense.

Dress

It’s one of the great ironies of life that the one place in Thailand that has the best beaches, ocean and blazing hot sun, is also one of the most conservative when it comes to dressing. The predominantly Muslim population here in the South can take real offense to any tourist wandering into their shop with just a bikini on, or tiny shorts for the guys. I know, you’re on holiday and you deserve that tan - I understand. But here, bikinis are for the beach and only the beach.

Please, please, please try to appreciate the cultural differences here and cover up a little when heading to and from the beach.

Guys, just pull on a pair of board shorts and T-shirt. No-one wants to see another pair of fluorescent Speedos making their way around the town.

Ladies - simple. Sarongs. Dead cheap, available everywhere, take up no space, dry in a heartbeat and can be used a hundred different ways. Wrap one around your waist or shoulders when heading off the beach and you’re sorted.

Royalty

The Thai Royal Family is revered and there can be no worse “faux pas” than joke about the King. Some have actually been thrown in jail for making “uncivil remarks” about their beloved leader. It’s serious business and you should take note.

You’ll see his image absolutely everywhere, which should give you a good idea of the respect and love he has from the Thai population.

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Just use common sense and you’ll be fine. If in doubt about what you should do in any given situation - just do what the Thais around you are doing and you can’t go wrong.

Religion

Respect is the name of the game when visiting a temple or encountering a wandering monk. Again, no speedos. As a rule of thumb, make sure that your shoulders and knees are covered (especially the ladies) and you’ll be fine.

Remember the mantra - “bring a sarong and you can’t go wrong”.

Monks

Buddhist monks are forbidden to make direct physical contact with women. This means that if a woman has to give anything to a monk, she must first hand it to a man who then can pass it on. Sometimes the monk will lay out a piece of his robe on the ground, where the lady can then place the object and he can pick it up.

Buddha

Sacred and revered. Even if it’s a ruined, half destroyed statue of the deity - treat it with the utmost respect and you’ll shine in the eyes of the Thais. Common sense again - don’t clamber up onto one and make bunny ears behind it for a photo.

If you want to take a picture of a statue, please do so respectfully and, if possible, ask a passing monk if it’s ok to do so. It may seem a bit odd to us, but it’s a real big deal to Thai people - so who are we to argue?

Head & Feet

In Buddhism, the feet are seen as the lowest part of the body and the head the highest - both literally as well as figuratively. This means that you should never point your feet at a Thai, a monk or a statue of Buddha.

Instead, sit with your feet under your knees like the statue of Buddha here or even cross-legged if you have glass joints like mine.

Also, try never to step over someone who is lying in your path (sleeping, presumably) as the act of passing the soles of your feet across them can be just as bad or worse than the feet-pointing.

The head is seen as the most “holy” part of the body and as such, should not be touched. This means no playful ruffling of that cheeky boy’s hair or patting of kids heads. I know, to us it’s a gesture of affection. To Thais, it’s very offensive.

Shoes

Easy, this one take your shoes or flip flops off at the entrance to any indoor space. If in any doubt, look for other flip flops at the doorway and leave yours there with them.

Resorts are the exception to this, as are

most restaurants - but absolutely take them off if entering a Wat (temple) or a Thai’s home.

Saying “Hi” - Thai Style

The “Wai” is the traditional Greeting here in Thailand - similar to the handshake in the west. It’s usually performed by a “lower class” of person when greeting a superior, who can then return the gesture.

You’ve all seen it as soon as you arrived at your resorts - I have no doubt. The “Wai-er” places the palms of their hands together like their about to pray and then bends forwards at the waist.

It’s good practice to return the gesture too and the Thais really appreciate it.

Just put your hands together with the tips of your fingers touching your chin and bend forward a little while saying “Sawadee krap” if you’re of the manly persuasion or “Sawadee kaa” if a lady.

You may notice that sometimes you are addressed as “Mr. Bob” or “Miss. Jane” instead of your family name. This is just the way Thai people address their peers, usually with the first name.

Kissing

Public displays of affection are a big no-no all over Thailand, and should be avoided. No snogging in the restaurant please - or you will be faced with a sea of red-faced Thai’s all avoiding you.

Shopping

Thailand is an excellent place to pick up some bargains, and haggling is expected amongst customers and vendors.

Remember to take the “softly-softly” approach and don’t be aggressive. In some parts of the world, haggling can take the form of a shouting match with arms flailing, spit flying and lots of walking way and pulling back. Not so here. That kind of behavior will get you nowhere. Smile and ask what their best price is and take it from there. Keep your voice calm and quiet and never, ever lose your temper.

So there you have it. Try these simple tips and feel pleased with yourself for making the effort. It’s not as difficult as you might think, and it really doesn’t matter if you get it wrong!

Some of the best things to buy here in Thailand are: • • • • • • • •

Leather Jewelry Silk Wooden carvings Art (Paintings, Batik, etc.)

Ceramics Silverware Precious gems

Long live the King!

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If you are in Thailand for the month of December, then you are lucky to be here during one of the best times of the year. As well as Christmas and New Year celebrations, December 5th marks one of the most auspicious dates in the Thai calendar - the King’s Birthday.

The King, His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej, is also known as King Rama IX and is officially the longest serving current headof-state, as well as the longest reigning monarch in history - the current Queen of England coming in a close second. His Majesty ascended to the throne on 9th June, 1946 - over 66 years ago.

Also known as Father’s Day, this is also a day given to spending time with families and friends, with many businesses closing to mark the occasion.

This year sees His Majesty celebrating his 84th Birthday, having come into the world in 1927. It is a time for his country to celebrate his life, his achievements and the tireless work for the

people under his reign that has made him loved and respected by everyone.

It is a day of yellow! You will see almost every Thai wearing the colour yellow to mark the occasion, and thousands of wellwishers gather together in Bangkok to try and catch a glimpse of His Majesty as the royal motorcade passes by. A frenzy of flagwaving, screaming and general hysteria is usually the case as the crowd displays a collective outpouring of genuine love for their leader.

There are a few interesting facts about the King that you may not be aware of. For one, he was born in the USA; Cambridge, Massachusetts to be precise. When he was 6 years old, his mother took her family to Switzerland, where he studied French Literature and Science at the University of Lausanne.

It was here that he had his unfortunate car accident on the road to Geneva that cost him the sight in his right eye. While he was recovering in hospital, he was visited by the daughter of the Thai ambassador to France, who later want on to become his wife, Queen Sirikit. They were married in 1950, just a week before he was crowned King of Thailand.

The King is widely known as an accomplished painter, photographer, author, translator and even a jazz musician - the alto saxophone being his instrument of choice. He was the first Asian composer awarded honorary membership of the Academy of Music & Dramatic Arts in Vienna, at the age of just 32.

Sailing is also another love of the King, and His Majesty is an accomplished sailor and even a designer of the vessels. He was won numerous medals and awards in regattas and races, made even more impressive remembering the fact that the lack of sight in his right eye leaves him with no depth perception.

The King also has one of the longest official titles in the world! His unabridged, official name is, “Phra Bat Somdet Phra Poramintharamaha Bhumibol Adulyadej Mahitalathibet Ramathibodi Chakkrinaruebodin Sayamminthrathirat Borommanatbophit” This roughly translates as “Strength of the Land”, and it is this strength that makes him one of the most effective, well-respected and talented monarchs in history Happy Birthday King Bhumibol!

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Eating Guide CARNIVORE - Steak & Grill Soi Klong Haeng opposite Thai Village Resort, Ao Nang.

They say that the prof of the pudding is in the eating, and the same goes for steaks. The quality of what this kitchen produces is extremely hard to beat - and the experience of the owner Gidi is evident as you walk into the elegant and pristine restaurant. Gidi worked for 15 years in the restaurant business before starting Carnivore back in 2003 - and he has never looked back.

All main courses come with salad and a choice of six different potato dishes that include home-made french fries and mashed potato to die for.

Average price: 400-900+THB What to Try: The “Carnivore” signature Steak Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Open daily from 3pm - 11pm.

(Kitchen open from 4pm - 10pm) Tel:+66 (0)75661061 Website: www.carnivore-thailand.com

As well as the 5-star meat selection, Carnivore also offers some of the finest salads, soups, crispy baguettes, grilled sandwiches and warm starters around - as well as no less than 60 beers from around the world. Yes, 60.

DA CARLA - Italian and Thai Restaurant Noppharathara Beach, inside Sabai Resort.

For some of the best Italian food you will find in Ao Nang and beyond, you should look no further than this place. Nestled just off Noppharathara Beach and next to Sabai Resort, Da Carla & Poan is a small, informal place owned and managed by an Italian couple who are long-time residents here.

As well as great Thai food, this is the place for some real-deal homemade pasta just like it should be made. The hand-filled ravioli and homemade desserts that are on the menu are very hard to argue with. Great meat selection too, with quality steak and the freshest seafood you could hope to find.

Average price: 250+THB What to Try: The hand-filled ravioli Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Open daily from 7:30am - 2:30pm and 5:30pm - 9:30pm Tel:+66 (0)75637791 Website: www.sabairesort.com

As you would expect, a good selection of imported wine is also available, as well as imported Belgian beers.

THE IRISH ROVER - Irish Pub & Restaurant Heading towards Ao Nang beach on the “Mc Donalds Road”, look for the pint of Guinness...

The Irish Rover has one of the largest draught beer selections in Southern Thailand, including Kilkenny and a very nice pint of Guinness. Irish ciders Magners and Strongbow are also available for those hot days when nothing else will hit the spot.

The kitchen is open until 1am, serving excellent food in generous portions. Expect to see homemade pies, tender steaks, juicy chops, shepherd’s pie (made with Guinness) as well as ploughman’s lunches, bangers and mash and more.

Happy hours & drink specials are worth watching out for. Air-conditioned, live sports, pool table and a darts board all complete this little slice of Ireland right here in Ao Nang.

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Average price: 250+THB What to Try: The home made pies Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Open daily from 4pm - 1am.

Tel:+66 (0)75637607 Website: www.irishpubaonang.com

Eating Guide Smiling Dog Café - Crêperie Located on main street, opposite KL House in AoNang The wonderfully titled Smiling Dog Café offers gourmet food without the gourmet price tag. Serving a wide variety of hot and iced drinks and breakfast all day, as well as some of the finest filled crêpes you’ll find anywhere in the South of Thailand.

An extensive menu that includes traditional sweet treats like their famous banana and chocolate filled “Chunky Monkey” or “Caramel and Apple”, the Smiling Dog Café also offers plenty to cater for those who prefer a savoury bite. Salmon & cream cheese, Tex Mex and vegetarian options are some of their highlights, and you can even create your own with a wide selection of tasty ingredients.

Average price: 89 THB What to Try: The Chunky Monkey or Tex Mex Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Open daily from 7am - 8pm.

Tel:+66 (0)809-298-297 Website: www.thesmilingdogcafe.com

With freshly ground coffee, comfy seating inside and out, a selection of local and International newspapers and free WiFi, the Smiling Dog Café is a great little place to ease into your day in comfort and style.

The Red Devil - Grill & Lounge Just outside Ao Nang at the Ao Nammao junction. Big red building.

With their focus set firmly on comfort and quality, the Red Devil offers a mouthwatering selection of gourmet steaks, burgers, salads, pizzas and pastas - all top quality and cooked to exacting standards by Italian chef and owner, Umberto.

The jewel in the crown of the Red Devil is it’s upstairs VIP lounge area that’s open to the public as well as being bookable for private functions like Birthday parties, meetings and get-togethers with friends.

Sumptuously decorated with oversized cushions, low tables and carpeting throughout, “lounging” is almost obligatory. Soft lighting, a dedicated music system and even a “waitress call-button” all make for a wonderfully unique and relaxing atmosphere that really has to be seen to be appreciated.

Average price: 200+THB What to Try: The steaks, pasta & burgers Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: After Dinner...

Tel:+66 (0) 83 175-6938 Website: www.reddevilaonang.com

New lunch specials are now available, offering great discounts on set meals. Call for details or pass by and check the chalkboard outside

BELLINI @ Amari Vogue Resort & Spa 149 Moo 3, Tambol Nongtalay, Amphur Muang Krabi 81000 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.

LOTUS @ Amari Vogue Resort & Spa Take your tastebuds on a world tour at Lotus restaurant. This laid-back Krabi restaurant features authentic Thai cuisine to suit every craving. With an elegant dining room as well as a terrace for outdoor dining, Lotus is the perfect choice for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Average price: 400++THB What to Try: Bellini’s seafood and Lotus’s carpaccio Free WiFi?: For hotel guests only Opening Hours: Daily. Bellini from 11am - 11pm and Lotus from 6:30am - Midnight Tel: +66 (0) 7560 7777 Website: www.amari.com/vogue

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Eating Guide Venezia @ Sofitel

Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort

200 Moo.3 Klong Muang Beach, Tambon Nongtalay, Muang, Krabi Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort’s Ristorante Venezia serves up gourmet cuisine featuring traditional Italian recipes, pizzas straight from the wood-fired oven & a large selection of wines from all over the globe. Located on the first floor of the resort & next to the grand lobby, tables are available for either indoor dining or on the outdoor terrace, al fresco style, with panoramic views of the ocean and tropical gardens.

Specialties include the Albero di Antipasti, at THB++600, a delicious selection of 6 of your favourite anti pasti choices, perfect when you can’t decide from their extensive menu choices.

Average price: 400++THB What to Try: BThe antipasti & ravioli frutti di mare Free WiFi?: No Opening Hours: Open daily from 6pm - 11pm.

Tel:+66 (0)75627800 Email: fbsales@sofitelphokeethrakrabi.com Website: www.sofitel.com/6184

Another must try is the Ravioli Frutti di Mare at THB440++, delectable homemade ravioli stuffed with the freshest Andaman seafood and served in a mouthwatering creamy crab meat sauce!

Gecko’s restaurant @ The Sheraton Resort & Spa 155 Moo 2, Nong Thale, Krabi The signature restaurant of Sheraton Krabi features fresh pastas, salads and delicious selections from authentic Italian home cooking to pizzas baked in a traditional wood burning oven. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and the Andaman Sea breeze while dining at this prestigious resort, known the world over for it’s top quality dining experiences.

With a mouth-watering array of choices on the menu, you are quite literally spoiled for choice when it comes down to it.

Great food in a 5-star location with meticulous attention to detail. What more could you ask for?

Average price: 400-900++THB What to Try: The pizzas Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Open daily from 11am -11pm.

Tel: +66 (0)75628000 Website: www.sheraton.com/krabi

Cleopatra - Egyptian Restaurant & Shisha

On the main road to Ao Nang beach, after Mc Donalds

This is without a doubt one of the best things to hit the Ao Nang dining scene this season.

The food here is North African and Arabic, so think home-made hummus, baba ghanoush, eggplant curry, falafel and kebabs and you get some idea of what to expect. They have a vast array of dishes that ranges from lamb biryani and pasta to T-Bone steaks and mashed potatoes. Although you must banish any image of a greasy, late night kebab house - this place does it in style.

This is the only place around that offers the traditional shisa pipe along with a variety of fruit flavours that are all worth a go - especially if you haven’t tried them before.

They use a non-tobacco formula that is pretty unique, and a lot better for you as well.

They compliment their dishes with a selection of 6 different breads that are all baked on-site in a large outdoors bread oven. Their BBQ grill is just as impressive and there can be nothing better than sitting on the terrace sipping a cool drink and watching your selection being cooked in front of you.

If you fancy a change from Thai food during your stay in Krabi, this offers some delicious respite in very comfortable surroundings and wonderful service - right in the heart of Ao Nang.

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Average Price: 250+THB Shisha: 200 - 450THB What to Try: Hummus, breads, lamb Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily from Noon - 2am Tel: +66 (0)82 1951982 email: cleopatra_krabi@hotmail.com

Eating Guide The Frog & Catfish - Restaurant & Country Inn Din Daeng Noi, Nong Thale, Krabi Town 81000 Owned and ran by Gary and his wife, Bua, the Frog & Catfish is located in the Din Daeng Noi locality just a 10 minute drive from busy Ao Nang and is a gem of a place. With handcrafted furniture by Bua, chunky wooden tables and chairs are nestled amid a tropical garden and large pools of water with trickling waterfalls and frolicking catfish. The food here is nothing short of spectacular, with people coming from as far as Railay Beach just to eat for the evening. Top resorts have been sending their head chefs here to see what all the fuss is about, and with good reason.

With a wide selection of Thai food, you need to read the menu twice to see the difference.

They have the usual favourites of Pad Thai and curries - but with a twist. Think duck curries and freshwater fish. Lemongrass and mango fused with chilli and herbs.

Sushi roll-style spring rolls with a 7-herb dip. You get the idea. They use locally sourced ingredients and organically grown fish from their own stocks. There are also have a few western items on the menu that include their own take on the classic fish & chips with “proper chips”, a full English breakfast and fillet steak as well as pasta and a few others all prepared in their own impeccable style And for the hungry mouths amongst you - there’s plenty of it on the plate!

Average Price: 150+THB What to Try: Whole fried fish in Boraan Sauce, Duck curry Free WiFi?: No Opening Hours: Daily from 10am-10pm Tel: +66(0)84 773 0301 Website: www.frogandcatfishkrabi.com

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL A full-on Christmas dinner with all the trimmings on 25th promises to be a feast of epic proportions!

The location is stunning, the hospitality equally so and the food downright delicious. If you are looking to get away from the bustle of Krabi or Ao Nang for a while, this is the place to go.

U&P Homemade Bakery 401/4 Ao Nang, Krabi. End of Na Thai Road.

U&P Homemade Bakery has been around for a few years now and has secured itself a place in the hearts and stomachs of many locals and ex-pats in the Ao Nang area. Being 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.

They have a fairly extensive menu as well, meaning you can get more than just a decent cup of coffee and croissant in the morning. Lunchtime is sorted with a great selection of western and Thai dishes - the sandwiches being a firm favorite thanks to the freshness of the bread being used and the decent sized portions served up. Their early morning opening is perfect if you want to get a head start on your day, and the free WiFi makes hanging out here a longer pleasure as you can catch up with work or friends online.

What to Try: Sandwiches Free WiFi?: Yes Average Price: 100THB Opening Hours: 6am - 5pm Tel.: 081-8956670

Located a little out of town for most of the tourist trade, they are certainly worth a look in if you find yourself in the Na Thai area on the outskirts of Ao Nang. You won’t be disappointed!

Khao Thong Terrace This place is the restaurant equivalent of a pot of gold at the end of a particularly spectacular rainbow. I’d bet my left arm that there is no way you would ever find the Khao Thong Terrace in a gazillion years until now. Heck, we had no idea it existed until a Thai friend told us about it.

The food here matches the view - simply amazing. If you tire of the usual “Thai Tourist” fodder then imagine a herb salad consisting of ginger, lemongrass, carrot, lime, spring onion and chilli with a Thai sweet sauce relish. This is the first item that greets you as you open the elegant menu.

The rest doesn’t disappoint, with the stars of the show being “Laab Pla”, aka spicy, crispy fish salad and an amazing yellow curry with crab that has Thai locals honing in here from miles around.

Don’t be worried that this is exclusively a Thai place though, as they cater for both local and notso local palates. Crunchy spring rolls, chicken satay sticks, fresh fish fried with turmeric, homemade fish cakes and chicken any way you like it is possible, and all fresh from the water you gaze at while devouring. The young owner called “Pair” is a Thai who graduated from Uni in Australia, so her English is excellent.

Washed down with a fresh cocktail - or even a mocktail for the drivers - Khao Thong Terrace promises to be an evening you won’t, and shouldn’t, forget.

Average Price: 120THB What to Try: The crab curry Free WiFi?: Thankfully not Opening Hours: Daily from 11am-10pm Tel: +66(0)83 107 4400 Email: khaothongterrace@gmail.com

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Eating Guide Cafe Del Mar Restaurant 126/2 Moo 3, Ao Nang, Krabi

This well-known eatery is the partner restaurant to the Baan Bandalay Resort next to it, and is a great place for some good Thai food close to the center of things.

With an impressive view of the towering green jungle-covered cliffs opposite, you can very happily while away some time here sipping a fresh fruit shake or partaking in one of the classical Thai dishes the South has become renowned for.

Curries are good here and the Massaman in particular has been singled out by many as one to look forward to. They also offer sizzling platters that come to your table for that something a little different!

Good food, local ingredients and well presented - Cafe Del Mar is hard to beat.

Average Price: 120THB What to Try: The Mussaman currry Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: All day Tel: +66(0) 75 638 085/6 Email: reservation@baanbandalay.com

Bussaba Thai Restaurant 129 Moo3, Ao Nang Beach, Ao Nang, Krabi

The Bussaba Thai Restaurant is a terrific place to start if you have just arrived in Thailand. That’s not to say it’s only for newcomers - not by a long shot - but for a first introduction to this country and it’s cuisine, it hits the spot.

The location, for one, is close to Ao Nang beach which makes for a pleasant stroll to and from the place, to get your juices flowing. Once you arrive, the combination of delicious cooking aromas coming from the kitchen will again give you a better idea of what’s to come.

Seafood is the name of the game here, and its as fresh as you can get. Crab, snapper, king prawns and more can be steamed, fried, battered and minced with the freshest ingredients to create something for everyone.

For those of you adverse to the chilli, they can serve sauces on the side or recommend a host of other options, including lime, garlic, lemongrass and plum sauces to compliment your dish.

Average Price: 250THB What to Try: Seafood Free WiFi?: Nope Tel: +66(0) 75 661 409

Formerly known as “E-San Seafood”, there is a distinct Northern twist to the food, which means traditional recipes at a lower price than a lot of the other restaurants in the area.

Cheap, tasty, simple and with friendly service, the Bussaba Thai Restaurant is hard to beat for that real-deal Thai food experience. One happy customer even went on to state, “I could eat here every day for the rest of my life” Enough said, I suppose...

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• FREE tapas available to all guests on Friday & Saturday evenings from 5:30pm - 7pm

• Open from 8am to 8pm • Contact: 083 175 6938

The Longtailboat located at seafood street, offering spectacular views over the bay of Ao-nang.

We’re dedicated to providing our guests with brilliant times in a chic and relaxed setting with our good service, here you will find a superb dining experience and great memories.

Our experienced chefs proudly present you our authentic Thai and European cuisine.

Fresh seafood is a must with great quality from the fisherman boat at reasonable price.

Information:

Menu sample :

Contact: 075 638 093

01. our "The princess of ao nang" signature experience of Assorted seafood deep fried with sweet plum sauce.

Average cost per person: 500 Bt.

02. " Stir fried snapper fish with black pepper sauce" with garlic butter fried rice

House wine per bottle: 900 - 1,800 Bt.

03. " Massaman Tiger prawns" served with Roti bread

Credit Cards: Visa, Master

04. Barbecued "Jumbo prawns" with vegetable and sweet sour sauce served with steamed rice

Service & Tax: No Charge Popular dish: "Guarantee fresh Seafood"

European sample:

delivery every day from the fisherman boat

01. Lasagna classica bolognese

(most fishing from Ao nang sea)

02. Pizza "Quattro Formaggi"

Open from: 13:00 last order 22:30

03. Cozze al vino bianco - new zealand mussels in our creamy white wine sauce . A traditional Italian recipe

facebook page: Thelongtailboat restaurant,Krabi

04. Australian Angus "Tenderlion" with red wine sauce served with baked potato and grilled vegetable

e-mail: thelongtailboat@gmail.com

05. Grilled Fillet of Sea Bass with White Wine cream Sauce - served with fresh salad and garlic bread

For taxi: รานอาหารเดอะ ลองเทลโบท อยูในซอยอาวนางซีฟูด ริมทะเลหาดอาวนาง

* Vegetarian Selection

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Christmas

in Thailand

S

o here you are, in the Lind of Smiles at this festive time of year and you might be wondering if you are going to have a tinsel-free time or there might just be the faint sound of sleigh-bells off in the distance. Well, depending on your outlook on this time, the following mey or may not be good news!

Christmas is most definately here. Yes, you will indeed be able to stuff yourselves silly with all manner of delicious offerings on the day, as well as for severl days leading up to and out of the end f the year.

A certain jolly gentleman will indeed be popping over with his reindeer (although he does change into some fur-lined board shorts and a Chang T-shirt), much to the delight, or dismay, of many tourists and residents alike. As with anywhere in the world, there are 2 camps in which to place your flag when it comes to Christmas - love it or hate it.

While it’s true that there are those that have come to Thailand in order to escape the hyper-commercialism that modernday Christmas has become, there is no escaping that fact that celebrating the feast of St. Nick in the tropics is a tempting experience - and why not?

For those of you that think Christmas is a load of mass commercialist bunkum designed to force you to slash out on gaudy trinkets that no one really wants, well, you’re in the wrong place. Thailand, as a predominantly Buddhist country, leverages out what little remains of Christianity in the holiday and filles the gap with pink sparkly things that repeat “jingle

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bells” ad nauseum. They love a party and they love pink sparkly things even more, so this is like hogs heaven to them.

Yes, there is no denying that Christmas here is aimed squarely at foreigners and consumers. So as a foreign consumer, watch out.

You will notice that a lot, if not all shops, stores and businesses remain open on the day, making it a tad more convenient to pick up any last-minute pieces for your celebratoty shenanigans. Much like back in your home country, there will be decorations, Christmas trees and the odd Santa dotted around major shopping areas, especially in Bangkok and major tourist-centric areas.

If you are dead set on having your roast turkey wiht all the trimmings, as long as you aren’t crashing with the hill tribes on Chiang Mai, you should be sorted. There are more and more places every year offering the obligatory bird with mash, roasties and all the neccessary yummy bits that make it what it is. Just be prepared to have it taste not quite like it does at home. Be fair though, mashed potatoes and brussle sprouts are hardly the staples of Thai people. How would you like to whip up a traditionsl fish-head curry for them on their New Year? No, didn’t think so.

Whatever price bracket you opt for, you can be sure that a specacular trade-off lies in eating your turkey and pulling crackers while wearing shorts, T-shirt and not much else. Having your Festive cheer on the beach while the delicate tones of Perry Como drift through the balmy air and you wiggle your toes in the sand flies in the face of everything we grew up with in the chilly, dark and decidedly “indoors” Christmasses of our past.

It is something to be celebrated in itsself, whether or not you believe in the ethos of Christmas, the pure fact that we have the opportunity to do this makes it almost rude not to.

If you are staying at a resort at the moment, the chances are you will already have a seat booked for you at a dinner already planned and organised for you on the day. They usually charge for this, of course, but it will be the most hassle-free yuletide time of your lives, as well as giving you the chance to eat your Christmas dinner outside (when’s the last time you did that??) and celebrate the day with somplete strangers from all over the world (and that?)

If you are at a bit of a loss, then take a peek at our Eating Guides

for Krabi and Koh Lanta, where there will be some tidbits of information on places laying on something special for the day.

Whatever you are up to, and whoever you are with, we here at Krabi Magazine would like to wish all of our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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Christmas Eating Guide Amari Vogue Resort & Spa If you are looking for something a little different this Christmas then the Amari Vogue are the ones to watch out for - especially if you have children wondering if a “certain someone” will be able to convince his reindeer to make it all the way over to our sunny shores!

They are having a buffet Christmas Eve Dinner on 24 December for just 5,180 THB per person, which promises to be an amazing spread of all your Christmas favourites, prepareed to the highest standards you would expect from the Amari Vogue.

This is an all-in price that includes the buffet, music, shows and a special visit from Santa!

Festive Layana Season 2012 If you are looking for something a little different this Christmas then the Amari Vogue are the ones to watch out for - especially if you have children wondering if a “certain someone” will be able to convince his reindeer to make it all the way over to our sunny shores!

They are having a buffet Christmas Eve Dinner on 24 December for just 5,180 THB per person, which promises to be an amazing spread of all your Christmas favourites, prepareed to the highest standards you would expect from the Amari Vogue.

This is an all-in price that includes the buffet, music, shows and a special visit from Santa!

Le Cirque de Layana Count Down Party 2012

Join on 31 December 2012 the Layana Resort & Spa New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner, which is themed around “Le Cirque de Layana” with special Artistic Shows during the Gala Dinner on the Lawn, Private Fireworks on the Beach and Dancing at the Sundowner Bar with the two Resort’s Resident DJs A and B until dawn.

The ticket price is TBH 6,000 net per person and includes Welcome Cocktails, Gala Dinner Buffet, Medley of Le Cirque de Layana Performances and Lucky Draw. The dress code is “colorful & magic cool”.

Pimalai Resort & Spa Winner of several awards, the Pimalai Resort & Spa is celebrating the festive season in style, culminating with a New Year’s Eve party right on the beach.

For just 5999 TH net per person, enjoy a sumptuous International buffet with cuisine from all the best regions of the world, including homemade duck foie gras, imported oysters, the famous Phuket lobster and more, before partying into 2013 with “JAGGER”, a seven-piece band specially brought from Bangkok followed by DJ Pong who will be mixing old and new grooves in an evening dubbed “The all White party!

Don’t miss neither the superb fireworks that goes off at midnight to kiss good bye to 2012 and to welcome a 2013 which we all wish to be a great year! www.pimalai.com

Carnivore Christmas!

What better time of the year can there possibly be to indulge in lots of meat? None. It’s always been the tradition to stuff ones self with all manner of meaty goodness from turkey, ham, chicken, duck and more.

So when I heard that Carnivore is hosting a Christmas Eve special that includes 5 courses, I subconsciously loosened my belt buckle a notch.

Carnivore Xmas special meal is 1450 THB With a cold starter, soup, warm starter, main course and a dessert to work through, you better not have a large breakfast - that’s all I’m saying.

This is one of the most well-loved restaurants in the area and Chef Gidi knows how to satisfy his guests.

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Christmas Eating Guide Sheraton Xmas Special “Enjoy a cozy dinner at Gecko’s Italian restaurant this December at the Sheraton Krabi Resort & Spa as they offer a fantastic deal to usher in the New Year.

Take pleasure in an authentic Italian family style dinner with unlimited house wine, beer or soft drinks every Sunday for only THB1,399 per person.

This is the gift that keeps on giving as it will be extended into 2013, so take advantage now and book your table at Gecko’s Restaurant for a celebration in style!

Joyeux Noel In the Land of Naga Celebrating Christmas at Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort this year will definitely get you in the festive spirit. Krabi’s most stylish resort combines French excellence with wonderful Thai hospitality, a real cultural blend. With Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort as your base, you can experience all that Thailand has to offer at this magical time of the year!

Maya Garden: A Christmas Feast set al fresco Christmas specialties. Adults 2,500++/ person. Children 1,000++ / person (Children 5 to 11 years old) Venezia Ristorante: Wine & Dine in true Italian style Adults 4,999.++/person.

White Lotus : Authentic & Modern Thai cuisine Adults 3,000.++/person. Children 1,200++/person (Children 5 to 11 years old) Prices are subject to 10% service charge and applicable government tax

Bonne Année 007 Bond, James Bond 2013 New Year Eve Countdown to the New Year with an exclusive gala dinner set under sparkling chandeliers in the majestic Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort lobby. Our Executive Chef Indrajit Saha has masterminded a truly Magnifique culinary feast. Welcome in 2013 with an exclusive line up including eclectic live entertainment, themed to the effortlessly cool 007. Our New Year party is shaken, not stirred!

New Year’s Eve “JAMES BOND” Gala Dinner at the Grand Lobby Baht 7,000++/ Adults.

Baht 3,500++/ Children. (Children 5 to 11 years old) Prices are subject to 10% service charge and applicable government tax

THE NAKED CHEF’S NIGHT!

WHAT HAPPENS? • The Men & boys meet up at precisely 5 p.m.

(Ladies & girls can come at sunset 18:30 & relax at the beach bar) • Eat around 20.30

Since it was so much fun the last 8 years, we are bringing back this special event.

Here is a chance for the men to show off their culinary skills, as well as other “attributes” The guys do the cooking (with some Brandy to help), then serve their tasty “food-of-art” to the ladies

MENU • 3 types of MUSSEL dishes: - Thai style - French style - Spanish style • BBQ chicken & scampi SATAY • Tangy coconut soup (vegetarian) • Massaman curry (vegetarian) • Garlic bread • Mango Sticky Rice & Chocolate mousse

• Dining on the beach • We go out in longtail boats to see the fireworks at 11.30, with super punch on board !!!!

• A special night to remember

Reserve your tickets in advance - Limited space.

1400 Baht per person (Children under 12 years 500 THB)

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Only thirty minutes away from Ao Nang and Krabi Town is Tree Top Ao Luek Krabi, a familyfriendly place to experience breathtaking views of Krabi’s jungles and forest canopies. They sport a fun array of activities and obstacles to go through as well as a zipline, giving you panoramic views like no other as you fly through the air.

Water, fruit and a Thai lunch will be provided as well as any equipment you might need for the course. All you need to do is bring your happy self in comfortable outdoor clothing and sneakers! It is also advisable to not wear any jewelry that could get tangled in the process.

To book your group please call +66(0) 84-4623443. We include free transfers.

The activities are not only limited to ropes courses, however. Games such as the “flying bicycle” and “air surfing” are integrated into the obstacles. If you are afraid that you or your child won’t be able to do certain activities, please note that experienced and qualified operators will be guiding you throughout the activities and ropes course. Children under 14 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

There will be a mandatory safety briefing on the ground, teaching you how to use the equipment safely. Safety is guaranteed by public liability insurance valid for the activities on the premises, and double slings from your harness will assure that you will be attached to the life line at all times.

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formation: For more in abi.com. opkr www.treet krabi om/treetop .c k o o b e c a om. www.f bi@gmail.c treetopkra

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For Those of us About to Dine…..

As much as we love our Leo and spring rolls after a hard day slaving over a hot laptop in the pursuit of excellence, there comes a time when one needs a break from the routine. So when we were invited by the Sheraton Krabi to come and take part in a “Wine Dinner”, we were there with bells on.

There can be no better pairing of words in the English language than “wine” and “dinner”. This we discovered as we took our seats at the splendiferous tables set out to accommodate around 50 diners in the opulent surroundings of the resort’s “Gecko’s Restaurant”.

We were to feast like Tudors on 6 courses of 5-star food, all expertly paired and explained by the sommelier voted as the best in Thailand. All the wines were from the vineyards of “Domain Ste. Michelle”, a producer based in California that has a great selection in it’s repertoire. Ran by winemaker Rick Casqueiro, he took the reins from his Father and Grandfather who immigrated to the USA from Portugal, where they had a long family history in wine production.

As his childhood memories mostly included picking grapes, crushing them and partying like it was 1999 with his extended family, it’s of no real surprise that he fell into the same groove worn out by his parental influences.

The wines of the evening were served

in spotless glasses and we were talked through the aroma and taste of each and how they came to be paired with each dish.

It was actually very interesting to have this commentary and I felt knowledge, as well as alcohol, seeping into my grey matter. Was I drinking and learning at the same time?? Impossible - yet true. If I had realised this talent before, my schooldays would have panned out very differently.

most of whom had recently arrived from the North of England. As it turned out, we were a collective from Australia, Newcastle, Liverpool, Switzerland and Ireland. It was almost like a bad joke with all of us thrown together with free-flowing wine at the same table. It was, as we say in my part of the world, “the best craic” as we worked our way through the seemingly endless glasses and plates that kept appearing at our sides.

The food was, as you would expect from the Sheraton Krabi, beautifully presented explosions of flavour. Although the testtubes of gazpacho soup were a headscratcher, as some at our table didn’t quite know what to do with them. It was a good ice-breaker as we collectively debated on the best method of how to extract the thick tomato liquid inside. Some sucked mightily and others tapped the bottom like a ketchup bottle. A lady poked inside with a straw and others just gave up and had some more wine instead.

As we finished our meal and drained the last drops of the wonderfully sweet Riesling that accompanied the panacotta dessert, we realised what a downright fun evening we had had - and not just thanks to the wine. True, it helped “oil the wheels” somewhat, but the idea itself was a winner.

To sample some really great wines, properly paired to the dishes we were eating and to have the reasoning behind it explained was a great idea.

Entertaining, informative and a testament to the winemaker and the ingenuity of the management at Sheraton Krabi.

Hic...

By the middle of the meal, and after our 3rd generous glass, we were chatting well and getting to know our table companions,

Those wines in all their glory….

1st Course Chardonnay, 2009 Tuna Tartar, buffalo mozzarella & rocket salad served with mint gazpacho

4th Course Cabernet Sauvignon, 2008 Baby chicken, confit potatoes, young vegetables and rosemary sauce

2nd Course Sauvignon Blanc, 2009 Stuffed tiger prawns with Sauvignon Blanc sauce and parmesan risotto

5th Course Merlot, 2009 Goat cheese in puff pastry with arugula salad, balsamic vinegar and extra-virgin olive oil

3rd Course Lemon sherbet with home-made limoncello

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6th Course Riesling, 2010 Coconut and basil panacotta with crunchy chocolate

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Meet the Locals Ekachai O-Phang This month our intrepid interviewer Stewart from Krabiimaging.com tracks down another colourful character who resides in Krabi and gets a chink into his fascinating life. An avid collector of all things interesting, this gentleman has a shop that is a wonderland of trinkets and memorabilia that has to be seen to be believed...

KM: Please can you introduce yourself to our readers?

E: My name is Ekachai O-Phang. Krabi is my birth place. I was born in Baan Peung village in Neua Klong District in 1957. When I finished secondary school in Krabi I went to teacher’s college in Nakhon Sri Thamarat.

Upon graduation I moved to Bangkok and started my career as a teacher, which lasted 30 years. I am retired now and returned to Krabi with my family just eight years ago and opened this shop.

KM: Have you been interviewed before?

E: Haha, this is the fourth time now. The first two were from a magazine in Bangkok that came to Krabi to visit me. The third was by Krabi Cable TV last year. They came with their cameras and did a story about my shop.

KM: Now, I understand that you consider yourself a collector, not a dealer. Can you tell us when you first started collecting and what was it that you collected initially?

E: When I was 15 years old I began collecting books. At that time I never thought I would become a collector but because I am a bookworm and loved books very much it just happened. I came from a very poor

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family and at that time I would save every Baht I could to spend on books. Naturally after I had read the book from cover to cover I would want to keep it as I had worked so hard to save the money to own it. At that time a new book cost between 2 to 5 Baht. That sounds so little now but 40 years ago it was a lot for a young boy.

My father gave me one Baht every day for school and I would save 25 Sathang from that to put towards buying books.

KM: So I can see by looking around your shop that books are now just a small part of your collection. Is it fair to say that now you are a collector of antiques?

E: I can not call my collection an “antique collection”. The term antique would suggest to me items of very high price or value and that is not exactly true. I have tried to collect the normal things from every day life in the past. Much of my collection is from the 30 years I spent living in Bangkok.

Every year I would travel to different parts of Thailand and come home with different things I collected on my travels. Much of it comes from small villages and rural areas.

KM: So now it seems that you are selling off your collection - what is the reason behind that?

E: Well like I said before - I have retired and moved back to Krabi with my family. I didn’t really have anything to do. As a retired teacher on a pension the government pays me half of my salary. I like to say that the government supports one leg but the other leg is up to me. I thought to myself - I will share my love of collecting with other collectors. So I opened “The Unseen Collections Shop”. I am getting old now and I dont think I can bring my collection with me to the next life, so the best thing is to sell it.

KM: Well yes - you wouldn’t want to start your next life with all those bags it’s true.

how to get the money to them and how I can collect it.

E: (Laughing) Exactly! It doesn’t mean I don’t love my collection. I still love it but I want to share it with other collectors. That was the real reason I opened the shop actually - to share with other collectors.

KM: Now I see a lot of things here in your collection but I’m sure there is more. Where do you keep the rest of it?

KM: There’s a lot of stuff in this shop - can you remember the story behind every piece?

E: Haha, I can remember every single piece.

Where I found it, and who I bought it from.

I never bought anything from a shop like this. I bought all of my collection directly from the owner or it was given to me.

Some of the things in my collection are from other countries -those have normally been bought in flea markets in Bangkok or given to me. I have a good American friend who visits me every year. He too brings me something every year.

30 years of teaching in Bangkok has left me with many, many former students all over Thailand. Many of them call me when the see something they think may interest me, they buy it for me and we work out after

E: Aha - this is the 2nd question everyone asks me. First question is what is the most valuable thing I have and 2nd is where is the really good stuff. People think I am selling off the things that I don’t care about anymore and at my house are the priceless antiques that I love and don’t want to sell.

That is not the truth I’m afraid. Everything is here and while it’s true that some of the pieces are marked “not for sale” all of it is here......

KM: Are you still collecting?

E: Yes. I still travel around Thailand and I still add to my collection every year. Now that I am selling my collection I am worried that soon it will all be gone, so yes, I still look for old things to collect and I still travel around the country looking for things.

KM: And where is the best place to find old things in Thailand?

E: It can be all over Thailand but if you are looking for certain things then it’s true that some places are better than others.

If you want to find handicrafts then the best places are in the North of Thailand. But if you want to find old farming tools for example then the best place is in Nakhon Sri Thamarat.

If you want to find really ancient things like pottery or old tools then Krabi is great. These things here (motioning to old pottery shards) I dug up from a cave in Krabi just two weeks ago.

KM: Now Khun Ekachai, I’m sure all collectors have a favorite piece. Is there anything from your collection that has a special place in your heart?

E: Mmmm, I would have to say that my favorite thing to collect is still books. I love the old Thai paper back novels that I used to buy when I was a kid. I used to save for two weeks to buy a 5 Baht novel. The other things I love the most are old movie posters. I have a lot here and I am a movie lover too.

Most of the posters I have are from the 60’s and 70’s. Many of them I remember watching as a kid...........

KM: Well thank you so much for talking to us today Khun Ekachai. Your shop is fascinating and I will be back for certain. I think I can see some of those older-than-me movie posters framed on my wall soon.

E: Your welcome. I have some old copies of Krabi Magazine here somewhere, they don’t sell very well though. Perhaps they are not old enough yet.......

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ADVENTURE RACING MEETS KRABI

The beautiful province of Krabi had its share of the limelight on Saturday, November 3rd as they held their inaugural “Krabi Adventure Race Sheraton Krabi Trophy,” a much anticipated event hosted by the Sheraton Krabi Resort, MBK Center, PTT, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand. The event attracted nearly 160 contestants from more than 10 nations and was the first of its kind or stature in Krabi.

Adventure Racing is a multi-discipline endurance team race that is gaining popularity throughout Thailand and Asia as a whole . The “Krabi Adventure Race Sheraton Krabi Trophy” is organized by one of the leaders of adventure racing in Thailand: the Active Management Asia (AMA), who are in their 7th year of operation and have much to do with adventure racing’s current popularity in Thailand, consequently gaining International recognition for their “solid logistics and challenging race courses.”

While adventure racing comes in different shapes and forms and covers an array of different terrains and activities such as hand-gliding, horseback-riding and mountain-climbing, the Krabi adventure race required its two-person teams to go through four endurance disciplines: running, cycling, kayaking and swimming.

The race offers two divisions: extreme (a

48 48

long course) and adventure (a short course) with five different categories: men, women, mixed, masters men, and seniors men.

participated in over a hundred adventure races all over the world from Switzerland to Morocco, was no exception.

The race started and ended within the Sheraton Krabi Resort’s sprawling 16-hectare property, nestled just off Klong Muang Beach. Sheraton’s reputation for attention to detail shined through as the resort used nothing short of the best entertainment and hospitality Krabi has to offer, pulling out all the stops for the event as guests arrived and dined on their palatial property. The turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, the lush vegetation of a national park, as well as stunning views of the ocean surrounding their property sold itself as an ideal place for an adventure race.

Competitors overall have extolled the beauty of Krabi. Carl Fey, an American dean in a business school in China who has

“This is by far one of my top three favorite places I’ve competed in. It is really beautiful, with lots of wooded areas, narrow trails, and the sea! It’s just so clear here!” said Fey. While the race has garnered a lot of International notice from the extreme adventure racing crowd, it has not failed to capture the attention of one local fitness enthusiast who is on a mission to inspire Thai people - especially women - on the virtues of having an active and healthy lifestyle.

Faa Parichat Phasee, 23, a local of Ao Nang, won the mixed adventure race division and it is easy to see how she won! Phasee is the vision of mental and physical health,

sporting a healthy tan and rock-hard abs that most women would be envious of.

It helps that she leads a very active life, training in Muay Thai and working in a local dive shop. She is usually seen running the streets and beaches of Ao Nang.

“I want people to see how sports give back to you, and how we as locals should be thankful that we are living in one of the most beautiful places on earth. We should help each other promote and take care of our home. We need more events like these!” said Phasee.

To Phasee, life, like the race, was less about the challenge and more about how you overcome that challenge. She owes her win to the fact that she challenged herself more than she challenged the other competitors.

What makes her win even more astounding is the fact that this is Phasee’s first time competing in any race.

“I told myself to never give up. You need challenges in life to grow, and when you’ve overcome them, they become experiences

that make you stronger as a person. Life also becomes more exciting!” said Phasee.

It is Phasee’s attitude and commitment to a healthy lifestyle that attracted the sponsorship of another fitness enthusiast and local business owner who is also looking to inspire healthy lifestyles in the local area and represent the only local team to compete in the race. Umberto Barbieri, an expat from Italy who has lived in Ao Nang for the past 12 years, is the owner and chef of Red Devil Grill and Lounge. He has known Phasee for 6 years and is well aware of her dedication to fitness.

others in the area to follow suit by pursuing a healthy, fit, lifestyle.

Congratulations to Faa and Umberto!

“It’s not easy to find a Thai woman who is involved in fitness at Phasee’s level. Fitness is not just about working out, it is a lifestyle.

It is eating healthy, it is putting everything in moderation and being happy...It’s great that the only local team to compete was so successful!” said Barbieri.

Hopefully their success will encourage

49 49

Get in the Ring!

Justin is from South Carolina in USA and he came to Thailand to experience the other side of the world and to learn Thailand’s amazing national sport of Muay Thai.

Justin wants to be a MMA fighter in the usa, he has good martial arts and wrestling back ground but he knew if he wanted to be good he should learn from the “king of the ring “is the same as Thailand Muay Thai.

The word “Muay” means to fight, and “Thai” refers to Thailand, so it is known as “Thai boxing “or “Thai fighting” There are over a 1,000 training gyms in Bangkok and there are fights almost every day of the year somewhere in Thailand. So when Justin’s trainer told him, “get into the ring”, he was excited and he knew that is the experience he wanted when he travelled to this amazing country.

Justin has stepped into the ring three times in a three month period of time - which is just amazing and very few people have done this. There were 3 main things Justin learned in Thailand through Muay Thai in the ring:

1. End

ur anc

e

ysical r the ph fo y d o b ared his as he could in oon s lly prep h Justin fu sport as muc to Thailand he ness. is t fit h o t l g f a o e ic hys en h part vel of p wrestling but wh , le a w ic e r e n s Am ve hole th, he lo red a w ut discove natural streng strong guy. B t, a s ou a ’s b h e i h a in g so y Th Just ht-liftin pete in a Mua ig not e s e w o d d an lly com d as it e fu t s c s en you e fe r c be pe are - wh u in to suc t u s o u y m d yo ille nce endura w strong or sk s cannot help ht, g fig ho in t r h s t e r t fi t e s a is m d, tho t in h e u t o s sson u is a le h h t und it is a are ex fo d n in a t , s o u d . J ng”. rs the ring rst-time fighte “get into the ri , fi u as most arned when yo le quickly

50

2. as importanHumbleness is t as streng th Ju

stin found out there is an em otional and sp to Muay Thai th iritual side at he could ne ver have really America. Mua learned in y Thai’s founda tion and power humbleness. comes from To a young, stro ng, confident American, this make sense be does not cause most co mbat sports in not humble at America are all. The numbe r one thing a Th will tell a foreig ai trainer n fighter traine e is, “sabai saba literally transla i krap”. This tes as “relax, re lax”. It may se relax when ab em weird to out to fight so meone, but th effect of increa is can have the sing enduranc e levels by alm well as allowin ost 50%, as g a fighter to be faster and give the ability to fe s a fighter el and see thei r opponents co and movemen mbat strikes ts. This is a secr et that most fo not learn … ev reigners do en if they train in Thailand. Ju out in his seco stin found this nd fight and it is a lesson quic when you, “get kly learned into the ring “

ly is your 3. Who real o p p o n e n t?

Justin learned Thai principle Another Muay that the g into the rin is about stepping ring is e th in nt oppone number one 1 research on e fighters do som yourself. Most ho they face w is at because th nt ne po op r ei th in was getting one time, Just in the fight. At d coming fight about his up an really nervous rs told him an ne ai uay Thai tr M s hi of e on until old tale…

From the Thailand Royal days when the Kings themselves fought Muay Thai, they decreed that all Thai people should train in the sport as it makes a person learn about their self and thus makes them better person if they embrace the true teachings of Muay Thai. The trainer told Justin that every time he fights in the ring will be a step to making him a better person, even if he lost. The main person in that ring that he would be fighting is himself.

Every time a fighter steps into the ring, every part of their “self” becomes a part of the fight. Where there is a weakness, a fear and a place of doubt it will come out. At that moment there is a chance for change. Justin found this out in his third fight and it is a lesson quickly learned when you, “get into the ring “ Justin embraced Thailand, he truly wanted to learn the Thailand way of Muay Thai and he had many amazing experiences here that has set his life on a divine path that will really effect his future. You can do it too!

If you want to watch Justin’s fight, go to www.youtube.com/ docthailand Daniel C Docto aka khru “Doc”

If you want to learn more about Muay Thai or even take a lesson please feel free to contact khru “Doc” at docThailand@gmail.com – cell 087-810-2177 www.facebook.com/muayThaimissions

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Secret Corner This month Krabi Magazine stumbled across a little place called “Northern Food Restaurant”, just on the outskirts of Ao Nang on the main road to Krabi.

I say “stumbled” as, if there wasn’t a sign on the road proclaiming their existence, you would never guess that there was food for sale inside.

A

fter parking on the grass in front of a building that, quite frankly does not look much like one from these parts, we were greeted on the steps by Mark, the Englishman who decided that this was the place to start a Thai restaurant with a twist.

Instead of offering the usual pad thai, green curries and spring rolls, the Northern Food Restaurant specialises in cuisine from - you guessed it - the North of Thailand, such as Chiang Mai and the Isaan province.

The restaurant was designed and built by mother and daughter team Namkhang and Phurichaya and despite Phurichaya’s age (14) she clearly has a strong work ethic for a youngster still at school and a great deal of talent. She is the one who decided where every table should go and even down to the photos on the walls.

The restaurant currently has 8 tables and has been designed to allow cool air to filter through the restaurant naturally via the hand-made wrought-iron lattice work and the exterior is surrounded by lush greenery providing a natural relaxing environment.

As we stepped inside, the first thing that struck us was the styling of the interior.

The inside of the restaurant is unique in the Krabi area and is full of interesting items from around the world, including an old Honda motorcycle. Table legs are old Singer sewing machines and there is a wonderfully relaxing area where you can sit and have a cold beer or glass of wine while contemplating a menu you might never have seen before.

The menu, it has to be said, is not an epic read. With a grand total of 6 items on it, it keeps things easy - which I like. I am notoriously awful at choosing from menus and the more items there are, the less friends I seem to make at the table.

Not today. We were here for one particular item that is the speciality of the house here, “Khow Soi” - the most well known of all Chiang Mai dishes.

Khow Soi is a soup that is made using fresh local coconut and a “secret chilli paste from the North”. (This is all the owners would tell us) This smooth, slightly sweetened soup is then poured over fine yellow noodles and a chicken leg whose meat simply falls

off the bone. The soup is then topped with fried yellow noodles and freshly chopped coriander, as well as a selection of fresh, raw veggies like green beans and cucumber, sliced shallots and pickle.

When it arrived, we were - to be honest - a little surprised at what was placed before us. Not just some soup slopped into a plastic bowl (as can sometimes be the case in Thailand) but a beautifully presented meal in a fine white ceramic bowl, with a long serving platter of the mixed vegetables. “Proper” metal cutlery accompanied it.

As beautiful as it looked, we demolished it with gusto and when we were asked if it was ok, we could only respond with slurps and grunts. A good sign, I suppose.

After the soup, we were treated to some traditional spicy sausage that had uncountable ingredients within. Suffice to say that there were lots of herbs and spices, all of which were blended together with the fresh meat by hand and “sausaged” right there on the premises. Delicious.

We washed all this down with a fresh fruit shake that was equally delicious and hit the spot beautifully. If the sun were over the yardarm at the time, I would have most likely been tempted by one of their cold beers that are only 50 Baht - yes, 50 Baht each, or even a glass of wine for just 90 Baht. But a 40 Baht fruit shake is a much better idea when it’s 11:45am, there’s writing to be done and your wife is sitting across the table from you. Trust me on that.

After a good chat with Mark, we were invited in to see the kitchen, which was spotless. I mean spot-less. I was looking around for discarded take-away cartons as I found it difficult to comprehend that food had been prepared in there. They were good, I’ll give them that.

So proud are they of this, they openly invite any and all guests to check out the kitchen to allay any concerns they may have over the preparation of the food. Nothing to worry about here, I can assure you.

The kitchen itself is well hidden, giving the impression that you are in someone’s home and not a working restaurant. There are no clattering pots and pans, refrigerators

or coffee machines in sight, so when the smiling lady arrives with your food, its almost a surprise to see her standing there.

This food is “traditional”. This means no cloying, creamy, curries that have had all their flavour removed to cater for the western palate. This is the real-deal Northern Thai stuff that has been passed down from generation to generation for centuries.

While it can be spicy, it won’t blow your head off as you can have it the way you like it. Northern food also uses more herbs for flavour than the food you might find here in the South of Thailand, and don’t be afraid to ask for a little taste of anything before you decide what to eat.

And the icing on the cake? Well, as if this weren’t enough, the most expensive item on the menu comes in at just 90 Baht. The other 5 items are only 70 Baht.

So it’s without a second’s hesitation that Krabi Magazine awards the Food of the North Restaurant it’s “Secret Corner” of the month. Although I have a feeling that it won’t be quite as secret from now on….

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BUNGALOWS AND RESTAURANT BAR - GAMES ROOM - DIVING EUROPEAN MANAGEMENT 90mt from Noppharat Thara Beach

Noppharat Thara

tel 075-637791 - fax 075-695117 sabairesort@hotmail.com - www.sabairesort.com

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The Lost Years

By Mary Higgins Clark Published by Simon & Schuster UK Ltd. ISBN : 9781849837132 In The Lost Years, Mary Higgins Clark, America’s Queen of Suspense, has written her most astonishing novel to date. At its center is a discovery that, if authenticated, may be the most revered document in human history—“the holiest of the holy”— and certainly the most coveted and valuable object in the world.

Biblical scholar Jonathan Lyons believes he has found the rarest of parchments—a letter that may have been written by Jesus Christ. Stolen from the Vatican Library in the 1500s, the letter was assumed to be lost forever.

Now, under the promise of secrecy, Jonathan is able to confirm his findings with several other experts. But he also confides in a family friend his suspicion that someone he once trusted wants to sell the parchment and cash in.

Within days Jonathan is found shot to death in his study. At the same time, his wife, Kathleen, who is suffering from Alzheimer’s, is found hiding in the study closet, incoherent and clutching the murder weapon. Even in her dementia, Kathleen has known that her husband was carrying on a long-term affair. Did Kathleen kill her husband in a jealous rage, as the police contend? Or is his death tied to the larger question: Who has possession of the priceless parchment that has now gone missing?

It is up to their daughter, twenty-eightyear-old Mariah, to clear her mother of murder charges and unravel the real mystery behind her father’s death. Mary Higgins Clark’s The Lost Years is at once a breathless murder mystery and a hunt for what may be the most precious religious and archaeological treasure of all time.

Everyone likes to read a good book on holiday, so we take a look at 3 popular new releases this month that are perfect for whiling away your lazy days here in Krabi.

All area available through Asiabooks stores in Krabi town.

Holiday

Reads

Tony Lommi Iron Man

Apocalypse

By TJ Lammers

Published by Simon & Schuster UK Ltd. ISBN : 9780857204752

Published by Simon & Schuster UK Ltd. ISBN : 9781849833219 The name ‘Tony Iommi’ sends shivers down the spines of guitarists around the world.

As lead guitarist and songwriter of Black Sabbath, Tony Iommi is considered to be one of the most influential musicians of the past four decades and the inventor of heavy metal. From working class, Midlands roots, his unique playing style - a result of a disfiguring hand injury he suffered working in a sheet metal factory -- created a dark and gothic sound unlike anything that had been heard before and which captured the mood of its time. Sabbath went on to become a superband, playing to massive audiences around the world and selling millions of records, and Iommi led the life of a rockstar to the fullest - with the scars from all the drug-fuelled nights of excess and wildness to show for it. In Iron Man, Iommi goes on the record about Black Sabbath and recounts his life story in detail and depth. It is the exclusive account of the life and adventures of one of rock’s greatest heroes.

By Dean Crawford

A private Learjet filled with scientists travels across the ocean toward Miami. As it passes through the Bermuda Triangle, strange effects disturb the instruments and violent weather envelops the aircraft until it plummets out of control and vanishes without trace. In Miami, Sheriff Kyle Sears arrives at a murder scene. A woman and her daughter have both been shot through the head. But while Sears is still on the scene he receives a phone call from the woman’s husband. With uncanny accuracy, he predicts the immediate future just as it unfolds around Sears, before revealing that he, too, will be murdered within 24 hours.

The man gives him the name of someone he must contact. Ethan Warner. As Ethan Warner and his partner Nicola Lopez race to investigate, they are thrown into the centre of a mind-boggling plot to blow a hole in the space-time continuum.

55

The Kids are Alright The delightful children and volunteers of Baan Unrak arrived from at the Dawn of Happiness at Ao Nam Mao on Sunday 7th October to participate in a week-long Green Camp organized by Projects Abroad, Thailand. Baan Unrak Children’s Home is located in Sangkha Buri, Thailand, just 22 kilometers from the Burmese border. Baan Unrak Children’s Home is a non-government, non-religious, non-political community development organization that was founded in 1991 in an effort to protect the growing number of abandoned and orphaned children in the area.

Their primary focus is supporting children and single mothers in the community, as the surrounding area suffers from instability and families are at risk of being destroyed by disease, poverty, and lack of economic opportunity. Baan Unrak reaches out to those in need in the area, and offers positive solutions to ensure a better future for them. Baan Unrak currently provides a loving home, an education and healthcare to over 130 children.

The goal of the Green Camp was to inspire awareness and to educate the children of Ban Unrak about the importance of protecting our environment, show them the essence that makes Krabi, to provide our own Projects Abroad volunteers with the opportunity to see life from the perspectives of the Ban Unrak children and the abundance of love and appreciation they have for all things, and of course to ensure that everyone is having a grand time!

We started off our first day with a brief introduction of the children, volunteers and staff from both Projects Abroad and Ban Unrak. Followed by some ice breaking activities and teaching the kids about the rubbish system and recycling, hoping that this would create a habit amongst them during the rest of their stay in Krabi and

to also bring this knowledge back with them back home and to inspire other people they know to do the same. We then lightened up the theme a little with some arts and crafts, making paper mache and what a surprisingly imaginative and creative bunch of children we have! After the light activity and some food in our bellies, the lovely team from FORRU gave a presentation and then the children, with the help from the FORRU staff and Projects Abroad conservation volunteers, proceeded to plant their own trees with a sticker with their names on it. This task was seemed easier for the children of Ban Unrak than it was for the Projects Abroad volunteers as they children are used to caring for their own garden and planting their own vegetables for food.

The next day we had a “Local Culture Day” which started off with painting batik that is native to the south of Thailand. The children and volunteers were really creative and even input their own design leaving the lady running the show amazed! All-in-all it was great fun and we discovered many young talents at the Batik shop!

After heading back to base camp and some lunch, it was then time to tackle the 1237 steps to the Tiger Cave Temple. As predicted, the children ran up the steps leaving all the volunteers eating their dust! Once at the top they had a chance to appreciate the magic that is Krabi and had a chance to say a little prayer to the massive Buddha sitting up top. For many children this was one of the highlights of their trip. Once the children and the volunteers reached the bottom they went into cave where the monks reside and where all blessed and also given little good luck charm bracelets.

The day after, the children took part in our “Natural Resources Day”. On this day the

56

children had lessons about different kinds of Natural occurrences around the globe.

Natural disasters were also covered, letting the children know about the Boxing Day tsunami that happened so close to their home was an intense image for the kids.

The children then learned about Evacuation procedures and handling emergencies.

They then followed on to do what we call “The volcano Experiment”, this was to simulate a volcanic eruption, the process included mixing baking soda, glitter and vinegar, resulting in a oozing /explosion of beautiful “Lava”. The day continued with Paper Mache and painting pots for plants that the children will then take home as souvenirs.

Then followed the most exciting part of the whole “Green Camp”, they day the children were taken out by Aqua Vision and our volunteers to discover scuba diving for the first time! We had a feeling that not all the children would be participating, as most of them hadn’t even seen the sea. But on that day we are happy to inform that all the children tried diving and were all extremely good at it. Many of them even suggested they would like to come back and find a career in diving!

This amazing experience was made possible due to the generosity of Aqua Vision whom organized everything for us and the children.

The Projects Abroad community team tutored the children about the various beaches, islands and tourist attractions in Krabi and quizzed them on it. After which, the children were very well acquainted with the different spots in Krabi and could very well have become tour sales agents for the place! We then proceeded to do a beach clean-up on Ao Nam Mao where the children discovered and were surprised by all the different kinds of trash left by

people, and the staggering amount of cigarette smokers on the beach!

With the trash we gathered, the children were then coached to recycle them and with all the plastic bottles they collected, they set about making freestyle beach-trash art. Such abstractions they managed to come up with! When all the creative energy had been projected, it was time for a scavenger hunt! They scoured the beach area for clues to find different sea creatures (just a drawing of them, not the real thing!) buried in the sand. After that the children, staff and volunteers enjoyed a relaxing day at the beach with fun and games including bingo in the rain, football, volleyball, Frisbee and just floating in the sea. So much smiles and laughter on everybody’s faces!

We organized a special activity for the children to have fun and explore some of the highlights Krabi has to offer. This included a trip to see the mangrove walkway, the twin rocks of Krabi, a longtail boat ride and even releasing some fish with the local fisheries department.

After all morning activities were finished, they were all getting ready for the closing ceremony. We assigned the children to come up with a performance for the goodbye party.

By the end of the day, before the dinner started, children were given their certificate of succeed campers. Fire dancers and a remarkable

We are really happy to have a chance to provide these children with good opportunity to enjoy one of Thailand’s famous holiday destinations. We’re totally thankful to everyone that took part to help make this happen - local business, government organizations, support from the community leaders, etc. Everyone did a really good job and the children were so impressed with what volunteers have given to them.

All in all it was one of the greatest weeks we have had at Projects Abroad Thailand, saying goodbye to these lovely children was extremely difficult. We are all happy to say that the children, the volunteers and all of the staff got something great out of this. We look forward to having these kids back next year!

Phone : 66-75-661409 , 081-8946486 Fax : 66-75-661409 129 Moo.3 T. Ao-nang, A. Muang, Krabi 81000

firework display wowed them and the looks on their faces was priceless.

They performed GANG NAM dance and of course it was so much fun that volunteers couldn’t stop themselves from joining the dance.

On Saturday, which was kind of a bonus day, the kids were picked up by three long tail boats from Dawn of Happiness and taken to Railay where they all tried Rock Climbing for their very first time, followed by trekking through the caves where the children had a chance to abseil down the cliff face with the beautiful view of Railay west as the backdrop. Many of the children climbed with no shoes and a lot of them put the professionals to shame!

To end the day, we had ice-cream while watching the sun set and many of the kids went straight into the sea to have their last chance at enjoying the ocean. This day was made possible by Andaman Sky who organized all the climbing guides for the kids and Miss Annie Gorges who organized and paid for all the transportation.

Bussaba Thai Restaurant is a modern eating experience devised to feed you with minimum fuss. The diverse but lection of Thai salads, noodles, curries and stir-fries with an authenticity and freshness that surpasses expectations.

of Asian-inspired juices, smoothies, gent selection of wines.

The combination of its stylish interior, chattering atmosphere and mouthwatering food has drawn a loyal following of customers since its inception 9 and a half years ago.

Bussabathairestaurant@live.com 0818946486@aisinbox.com Phone : 66-75-661409 , 081-8946486 Fax : 66-75-661409 129 Moo.3 T. Ao-nang, A. Muang, Krabi 81000

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bussaba-Thai-Restaurant-Hostel-Krabi/161159264025565

+66 (0) 75 638 098, +66 (0) 819-797-89-5

info@wedding-in-thailand.com

info@krabi-spesialisten.com

Island Hopping

Hong Island by Luxury Thai Longtail Boat

“Hong” in Thai means “room” and the literal translation of the Island’s Thai name is “the island with the room”, due to the gorgeous lagoon located at it’s centre.

During this relaxing day-long excursion, as well as exploring Hong Island’s exotic beaches and it’s lagoon, you will also get to visit the surrounding sister islands of Bak Bia & Paradise Island. You will have lots of time to snorkel, swim and enjoy the sights and sounds of life on these incredible beaches! The journey to the islands takes about an hour aboard our special longtail boat which has been specifically designed & built by Krabi-Spesialisten with your comfort in mind.

Itinerary 09:00 – 09:15 09:15 – 09:30 09:30 10:30 11:30

13:00 15:00

16:00

Pick-up Klong Muang / Tub Kaek Hotels (on request at Sheraton beach) Pick-up Ao Nang Hotels Departure from Hat Nopparathara Pier Arrival at Paradise for relax, snorkeling & swimming the beach.

Leave Paradise island and cruise towards Bak Bia, where you can swim and relax while we set up a private, beautiful and delicious lunch.

Departure Bak Bia to Hong Island and visit lagoon on the way Departure Hong island back to Ao Nang Arrive at Ao Nang beach and return to hotel

* Program can be changed according to the water level and weather conditions

Krabi Spesialisten Co., Ltd.

126 Moo3, Ao Nang, Muang, Krabi 81000, Thailand Tel: +66 (0)75 638 098, Fax: +66 (0)7563 8089 Mobile: +66 (0)80 691 5119 www.krabi-spesialisten.com, info@krabi-spesialisten.com

Krabi Immigration is all that’s needed (in theory)

Krabi Visa was set up by Krabi local Punch Whitfield when she realized there was a lack of services in Krabi for those needing honest, reliable, up-to-date information relating to immigration laws and the mysterious Ministry of Labour.

Punch provides advice and administration services for all matters relating to work permits, visas and company registration.

Each month in Krabi Magazine we look at a different immigration issue facing foreigners here in Krabi and what options you have with regard to working and living permanently in Thailand. This issue we look at how to change your tourist visa into a non-immigrant visa so as to reside permanently in Thailand - without actually leaving the country. A single visit to

Tourist visa to Non-immigrant visa at Krabi Immigration??

Impossible? We all know that to get a nonimmigrant visa you have to gather together a seemingly endless mountain of supporting paperwork, then head off to the nearest border eventually making your way to a consulate that issues Thai visas. Once you get there, you find out that there is a two day public holiday, and then it’s the weekend. Four days later you join the queue at the consulate visa section to apply for the said visa, only to be told by a smiling clerk that you are missing a piece of documentation.

You then frantically get the missing paperwork faxed to your hotel and return to the consulate only to be told “visa section closed - come back tomorrow”.

Now I know there are bunch of readers out there smiling to themselves as they recall that exact thing happening to them. At the time you were thinking - I wish I could’ve done all this in Krabi Immigration and saved all this time and hassle.

Well, guess what? Now you can!

Let’s not go into too much detail here about all the paperwork required - as that depends on which non-immigrant visa you are applying for and on what grounds. If it’s a “B” visa you will need all the supporting paperwork from the company that is sponsoring you - be it your company or one that is offering you employment. If it is an “O” visa then you are either married or retired and you will again need all the right paperwork

Who are

Krabi Visa?

just as though you were applying at a Thai consulate outside of Thailand.

Your tourist visa must have at least 15 days left on it before expiring, so if you entered Thailand on a 30 day visa then you better get busy as it normally takes a few days or a week to get all the supporting documents together. If you crossed at a land border and only have a 15 day visa then, unfortunately, you’re out of luck.

Once everything is in order (and remember - if it is an “O” visa you need to show financial records also), head on down to Krabi Immigration and ask for the TM87 form. Fill that in along with the actual visa application, hand in all your paperwork, your passport, the right size photos and - you guessed it - the fee. The fee varies, so contact me for current pricing. The processing time is 14 days, though if it takes longer you will be granted an extension. Your visa will only be valid for three months and only a single entry.

The logic behind that is it gives you ample time to apply for a one year extension on that visa which you renew annually and live happily ever after in lovely Krabi.

Sounds easy right? Need more information? Give me a call and find out if you qualify for a nonimmigrant visa and how to go about getting all the documents together.

Next month we look at the education or Non-immigrant “E” visa. This visa allows you to remain for up to one year in Thailand without doing border runs, providing you are genuinely studying during your stay.

59

OTOP Invasion!

By Emily Huang-Ramirez What is OTOP? Maybe you’ve recently noticed the One Tambon One Product (OTOP ) branded acronym around lately, popping up faster than bar turnovers on Ao Nang Soi. If so, well then, congratulations keen observers!

OTOP is making it big time.

OTOP is a national entrepreneurship stimulus program gaining serious momentum around the nation lately, evidenced by the rise of products perforating everywhere from small restaurants to large businesses.

OTOP is a program that encourages village communities to improve the quality and marketing of local products by unifying their efforts with the financial and administrative support of the government.

Inspired by the successful implementation of similar programs in the Philippines and Japan, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra initiated OTOP in Thailand

60

during his tenure. After a brief hiatus following the military junta of 2006, it has since been revived and rebranded, and this train is a-rollin’ strong.

The project was renamed Local and Community Products, but because the OTOP name was seared into public recognition beginning in 2001, the OTOP brand has remained and continues to grow.

How does OTOP work?

Each tambon, or sub-district, collectively uses their area’s unique raw materials to craft high quality products that suit modern lifestyles, showcase traditional Thai heritages, and appeal to national and international markets alike.

By having each sub-district focus on a specialized product, all sub-districts – especially rural ones- learn to create self-sustaining income while promoting tourism in Thailand down to the tambon

level. The project enhances the exchange of information and ideas, while also improving communication across various tambons. Refining locally available resources intentionally raises product standards to an international level.

Secondly, the project works to increase internet technology to rural villages via the Tambon Internet Project, a website that facilitates the buy-and-sell procedure, in addition to making the products available globally in a comprehensive database system.

It’s win-win for everyone, in a coconut shell.

What OTOP products are available?

OTOP products aim to preserve folklore and Thai heritage. Products include, but are not limited to: textiles, handicrafts, wooden furniture, paper products, wickerwork, pottery, decorative items, and food products. Since the onus of each tambon is to produce high-quality products, they

must meet certain standards to receive the seal of approval.

Naturally in Krabi, a myriad of seafood and pastry items are produced. Since these products can also be shipped within regulation outside of Thailand, you can save yourself your diabolical outragethe natural response to human injustice if you ask me – at any potential customs detainments if you’re unsure.

To better understand what is on offer, I took a gander at a few local souvenir and department stores in and around Krabi town; beautiful silk woven pillows, Thaistyle dried spicy shrimp and chili pastes, and tarot cakes to name a few. As the ‘Red Car Syndrome’ (or Bader-Meinhoff Syndrome if you’re a nerd and proud) would have it, within hours of searching for OTOP, I immediately began to see OTOP banners everywhere: in front of restaurants around Ao Nang, cooking meals with OTOP products; a quaint OTOP café that now front lines a popular supermarket, and even a new OTOP section in an aisle of a well-known department store. OTOP proliferation has indeed begun.

As the nation successfully boasts a solidary effort to further economic and quality-oflife growth at home, the program is now focusing towards the future and expanding its markets internationally. With the ongoing assistance from the Foreign Affairs and Interior Ministries, Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra recently requested ambassadors and consuls general to shift the OTOP paradigm in foreign countries by promoting these products in their assigned territories, utilizing their extensive knowledge of their host country’s markets.

The OTOP products represent Thai wisdom and are considered highly valuable; helping to sell these products abroad will strengthen the national economy in line with the current administration’s policies.

So please, take a gander at these wonderful items that represent both Thailand’s past and future. As I mentioned, it’s hard to miss the wave of OTOP these days. We are all looking forward to the continued success of the program, as well as the influx of prime Krabi cakes, of course.

Nom nom nom!

What’s the plan, Stan?

61

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Connecting Krabi Tour

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Centara 2

AO NAMMAO PIER

KRABI AQUARIUM

TO SHELL FOSSIL

WEDNESDAY SATURDAY MARKET

TO KRABI TOWN

BOATS TO PHRANANG KRABI & RAILAY BEACH

AO NAMMAO VILLAGE

U&P Bakery

@AoNang Villas

Jungle Village

AO NANG SCHOOL

TO KRABI TOWN

MONDAY-TUESDAY FRIDAY MARKET

Ao Nang Mountain View

Vipa Resort

TON Company

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Spa korn l & Tour e saba Boos ang Trav nts sulta Ao N i Con

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Montessori International School Just Deli

DAILY MARKET

Krabi Apartments

Glur Hostel

Pams Pub

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Alongkorn Language School

Yamaha Service Center

Ao Nang Mosque

AO NANG VILLAGE

Fullmoon House

POST OFFICE

The Art of Yoga Ao Nang Whisky

Oceanmart t sor t Re SK Optik ng auran a Bernies N Krabi t Ao Res yon CENTER POINT Resort n Ba Luna Can Beach La lack Irish Rover B Terrace

NIGHT FOOD STALLS

Lae Lay Grill AONANG Restaurant VIEWPOINT La Playa Resort

Baan Bandaley Krabi Spesialisten Carnivore Steakhouse AO NANG Centara Bussaba Thai Restaurant BOXING STADIUM

Palm Paradise Emerald Gardens ChaWan Resort Pavilion Queen's Bay

SATURDAY MARKET

Klong Haeng Mosque

Bergers

Cobra Show

SupsaengDao Resort

THURSDAY MARKET

KLONG HAENG VILLAGE

WALKING STREET MARKET ON WEDNESDAY

Ao Nang Gardens

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Kitdee Media & Krabi Magazine

CTOP Nice Nature Homes Nice Day Resort

The L Resort

Boat Restaurant

Tattoo de Cafe’ Burger King

Nadivan Apartm a en

Ben Beach Bar

TO KRABI TOWN

Aning Restaurant Ao Nang Beach Resort

TO KLONG MUANG

Hippy Bar

Azzurra Restaurant Jeanette's Restaurant

Klong Muang is just a few kilometers outside of Ao Nang, yet can seem like another world away.

After the arrival of many up-market resorts such as Amari Vogue, Ritz-Carlton and Sofitel, the area has become the domain of the discerning traveller. With not a lot of activities or shopping in the area itself, Klong Muang is the place to come if you want to do a whole lot of not much at all.

With a soft, sandy beach and almost no tourists to be seen, you have space, time and tranquility in bucketloads to relax, and rejuvenate body and soul.

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Huay Toh Waterfall

Khaothong Terrace 4

Khao Thong 4033

4

Hang Nak Nature Hike Hong Nak Nature Reserve

4034

Ananda Pools Desjoyaux Pools

Elephant Camp Pong Cape

Sofitel Phokeethra Resort & Spa

Elephant Camp

Saitai Canooeing M

ah

ar ad

4202

KITDEE MEDIA&DESIGN

Natin Spicy Garden

The Pelican

i

Klong Son Temple

The Krabi Sands Resort The Beach House Restaurant

Ban Chong Pli

Ban Chong Pli School

4203

Nakamanda Resort&Spa

Cobra Show

Ban Klong Muang

Ut

ta

Morning Market

Marina Yoga

Hemthanon

Nathai Resort Tharue

Rd.

Rd.

Kaew grovaram temp

Soi 1

Treansport Department Labour Department Krabi Immigration

Ban Nammao School

Boats to Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Koh Jum Passenger Port of Krabi

Klong Heang Long Beach

Po

Passenger Por Port of Ao Nang Boats tto Lanta, Phuket o Phi Phi, Lanta, Phuket

Siew Bay

Krabi hospital Rd .

4204

@Sea Condo

Klong Muang Plaza

Law

ha ai T nS

Ba

4034

Ban Klong Son

Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort

Sai Tai Temple Thanee

Krabi Cart

. kit Rd Uttara

Nong Thale School

Villa Rattana

Elephant Camp

Ban Tup Kaek

Sabai Ba Bar

.

Rd

Ban Nong Thale

Nong Thale River Residence

KOH HONG ISLAND

Klong Muang Beach

ad ar

4200

Tup Kaek Bay Beach Phulay A Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Bus Station

ah M

Anyavee Tubkaek Beach Resort The Tup Kaak Tup Kaek Sunset Beach Resort

Frog & Catfish Restaurant

ad Nathai Ro

Amari Vogue Resort

Krabi Thai Village

Long Tail Boats to Railay

Ao Nang

Mosque

Post Office Full Moon 4203

Pakasai Resort

Long Tail Boats to Railay

Ban Ao Nammao Thip Residence

Ban Leam Pho

Ao Nang Villa

Long Tail Boats to Railay The princess’ Residence

Hong Naak Cape

Gastropod Fossil Susaan Hoi - Shell Cemetry

Ao Nammao Bay

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Koh Lanta highlights Koh Lanta is situated at the southernmost tip of the Krabi province.

I

t 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 the tourist operations.

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 bulk of the Lanta beaches lie along the west coast of the island and can all be reached by road: Khao Kwang, Khlong Dao and Phra Ae a l l

have long stretches of white sand facing the Andaman sea, while Khlong Khong, Khlong Nin and Ba Kan Tiang and other smaller bays are all nice to relax and swim.

T

he east coast of Koh Lanta Yai is flat and has many local villages scattered along its coastline. Koh Lanta has a very diverse cultural mix of people who have lived on the island in harmony for hundreds of years: ThaiMuslim, Thai-Chinese and the original sea gypsies still inhabit the place in harmony. The biggest town on the island is Lanta Old town. Boat trips to Koh Lanta are available during the monsoon-free period from October to April. May to November sees the closure of some of the island businesses and of the boat passenger services due to rough seas. A minibus service is the alternative way to reach the island via land.

Lanta Old Town It was once called Ban Si Raya and was the 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 home to an ancient community that was established on the island long ago. It is a picturesque place with Chinese

timer shop-houses dating back 100 years, from the old days of sea trading. Near the shacks along the coast, local fishermen dock their longtail boats giving the whole scene a very Thai look.

Ba Kantiang Beach Spectacular crystal–clear seawater and soft white sand, romantic sunsets in utmost privacy. This is why Ba Kantiang has come to symbolize a hideaway in Lanta for relaxing in natural surroundings.

Lighthouse on Lanta Located in Tanod Cape on the southernmost tip of the island, the lighthouse tower of Lanta is the perfect symbol of solitude. It is the place where immaculate nature still survives as it is rarely reached by tourists due to the rugged road conditions.

Koh Lanta National Park The park covers a marine area dotted with several small sandy islands surrounded by coral reefs. The headquarters is located on the island’s southern extremity.

Ban San-ka-u A sea gypsy’s settlement in 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 fastdeveloping island.

Eco-tours These are run all year round from the east coast of Lanta Yai, not affected by the low season rough seas.

Make your way to Thung Yee Pheng village for a trip with a local community, or book a tour with friendly and experienced local companies.

Nature Because of its bio-diversity and richness of natural resources, Lanta is a good place for trekking. Explore limestone cave chambers and passageways in the Lanta caves, or walk upstream to the spring water waterfall where you can swim in cool rock pools.

Fire Dancing This is definitely one interesting part of the Lanta beach culture. A fire dancing show is usually performed by young boys performing twisting acrobatics swinging burning torches and ropes lit on fire around their muscular bodies. A distinguishing show that sparkles in the dark.

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What to do?

Scuba Diving & Snorkelling

Y

ou do realise that you are in one of the best locations in Thailand and beyond for diving, don’t you? Yes? If you did - good for you! If you already have your certification or never tried it in your life - you’re in luck. There are no fewer than 19 dive operators on Koh Lanta and most of them - if not all - will be qualified to take first-timers out for a fully supervised scuba dive. Trust me, as a diver myself - you won’t regret it!

Dive sites nearby include the worldfamous Phi Phi islands as well as the Koh Haa archipelago - all of which are within easy reach. The price you pay will generally include all equipment rental, lunch, fruits and drinking water and as a bonus, the dive sites and boats will be much quieter at this time of the year.

A lot of the dive operators speak a variety of European languages, so there’s a good chance you can get an instructor that quite literally - speaks your language.

Check out our diving section “Into the Blue” for more information.

If you’re dead set on staying well and truly within reach of the water’s surface, then no problems at all. Snorkelling is the way forward and many of the dive boats also welcome snorkellers on board as well as divers. This is great for families

with children, where some members want to dive and others snorkel. Usually the operators will provide the masks, snorkels and fins, as well as a dedicated staff member to guide the snorkellers in the water.

Thai Cookery Thai food in the west is generally quite expensive, creamy and “toned down” in comparison to what you find in this country. Here, in contrast, it’s very cheap, plentiful and packs much more of a punch.

Learning to cook authentic Thai food in Thailand is about as good as it gets, and many of the kitchens are open-air or even

on the beach front - just to add to the experience.

Classes are a great way to spend a morning or afternoon if the weather is a little wet for other outdoor activities, and you get to eat everything you make too - so you don’t have to worry about what’s for lunch!

Rent a Moped and Explore Mopeds are everywhere in Thailand, and Lanta is no exception. They’re cheap, easy to operate and are hard wearing - judging by the state of some I’ve come across that are held together with string and a prayer…

In Saladan you can hire them absolutely everywhere. You might have to leave your passport with the rental agency, but don’t worry - this is standard practice. Everyone does it. It’s an insurance for them that you’ll bring the bike back, is all.

As tempting as it might be (and it is!) to roar off into the sunset, laughing madly with the wind in your hair - don’t. Those that do often round a bend, collide with a passing goat and end up in a sobbing mess

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in the local clinic. Wear a helmet. That’s all. Simple, yet effective at prolonging your holiday to the last day Bike fuelled and helmets on, the roads are yours to explore. Head south out of Saladan and you will discover another side of Lanta that is very different to the bars and restaurants of the north.

Isolated beaches, rockier roads and local residents are all here, and the feeling you are stepping back in time is overwhelming.

You will come across a junction after a while, with a right turn towards Klong Nin. This is filled with smaller beach-bungalowtype places to stay and similar bars & restaurants to match. Expect to find locals lounging in hammocks strumming guitars and sipping cold beers. This is a good indication of how they do things here…

If you don’t take that right turn, the road will turn into a winding, twisting hilly serpent that leads you to the east of the island, where the “sea gypsy” people have lived for 500 years. This is a very interesting part of the island, but visitors here should respect the privacy of these “Chao Ley” people and remember they are not a tourist attraction.

That aside, they are a warm and welcoming people and are fascinating to experience.

Remember to take a map with you just in case, and keep your eyes open for the “gasoline shacks” that dot the roadsides, just in case. Watch the fuel gage and you’ll be fine.

Biking around Lanta is the best way to truly explore all it’s nooks and crannies, and you might even come across a few surprises along the way….

Have a Massage If the thought of even standing upright is just to much - congratulations: you have successfully integrated into the Lanta way of life. If you have reached this point in your stay here, then it’s time for a massage.

Only in Thailand can you engage in an “activity” while lying perfectly still for a hour. I love this country…

If you have never had a Thai massage, you’re in for a treat. Unlike the more traditional notion of a massage, the Thai version does not use soothing strokes as it rubs scented oils into your tired body. Oh no. It uses a

What to do?

Koh Lanta “pressure point” method that means lots of hard pressing, twisting, cracking of joints and squealing. That last part is usually from me.

and after a hour of this, you feel like you’ve had a great workout and your body will be rid of any niggling aches and pains - I guarantee it.

But it’s not anywhere as bad as it might sound - otherwise n one would do it. It’s invigorating and totally relaxing all at once,

You can have it as hard or soft as you like - and your masseuse will usually ask you if the pressure she is using is ok for you, and will adjust accordingly.

Probably one of the best things about getting a Thai massage in Thailand is it’s availability to everyone on any budget.

You can choose to luxuriate in one of the breathtaking spas that Lanta has on her shores, or you can find a small massage hut somewhere. While the surroundings will not be on par with the spa’s, you can still get a great massage for a couple of hundred Baht, which can’t be argued with.

LANTAwww.lantaluxuryvillas.com LUXURY VILLAS Private houses and apartments for rent

Owners: list your property free of charge

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KOH LANTA YAI NORTH

BUS TIMETABLE: to Krabi every hour 6am to 5pm to Trang every hour 8am to 3pm to Phuket every hour 7am to 4pm

KAW KWANG BEACH

Lanta Diver main office

Passenger Ferry

Car Ferry to Lanta Noi & mainland

POST OFFICE Kaw Kwang Resort

MARKETS: Ban Saladan Sunday mornings Lanta Old Town Monday mornings Klong Nin Saturday mornings

Lanta Diver Ko Lanta Diving Center Blue Planet Divers The Frog

BAN SALADAN

Minivan Station

SUNDAY MARKET

Blue Planet Divers Costa Lanta Resort

TO LANTA OLD TOWN

Laguna Beach Club

Lanta Diver

Mike’s Collection Eden Bar&Dining

Noble House branch

Lanta Pizzeria

Cafe’a

u Lait Deli

Lanta Diver

NEED HELP ON LANTA? Tourist Police - 1155 Police - 075 668 192 Lanta Hospital - 075 697 176 Dr. Salarin - 075 684 522 Clinic in Saladan - 075 668 170 NEED HELP ON LANTA? Tourist Police - 1155 Police - 075 668 192 Lanta Hospital - 075 697 176 Dr. Salarin - 075 684 522 Clinic in Saladan - 075 668 170

Southern Lanta branch Southern Lanta Resort

Fix the girl

Lanta Car Rental SK Optik

The Retreat

Chaba Bungalows Maneelanta

Lanta Island Resort

KLONG DAO BEACH

Minivans to Krabi/Phuket Congrit Resto

Everything Shop Ancient Realm Resort & Spa

Elephant Trekking

Time for Lime

Cooking School & Restaurant Holiday Villa Lanta Resort Lanta Sand Resort Funky Fish Indo Furniture Lanta Palm Beach

KLONG DAO BOXING STADIUM Lanta Tavern

Escape Cabins

Dreamy Spa I-Yarade Real Estate

Lanta Law Thanee

Layana Resort & Spa

Tides Restaurant

Lanta Casuarina Resort Dive & Relax Irish Pubs

PHRA AE LONG BEACH

White Flower Apartments White Flower Bajen Sports

Bajen Steakhouse & Nintendo Wii Minigolf

Lanta Castaway Resort Siam Pharmacy Lantanian Center

Desjoyaux Pools Andaman Sunflower

Red Snapper

ESCAPE CABIN FEB09+.pdf

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Relax Bay Resort Lanta Diver

2:06:43 PM

Lanta Manda Resort Faim de Loup bakery Bootshaus Retro Restaurant

Lanta Loft

Relax Bay branch Elephant Trekking

... escaping into the nature and seclusion

TO LANTA OLD TOWN & EASTERN ISLANDS Lanta Animal Welfare

Phra Ae, Koh Lanta TEL: +66 (0)8-4446-8909 FAX: +66 (0)75-684-240

stay@escape-cabins.com www.escape-cabins.com

Sunrise Creek Villa Project Custom Homes

KLONG KONG BEACH

Chaw Ka Cher Resort

Saneh Villas

Stylishly decorated cozy villas nestled

LPH Kirikan

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LPH Klong Kon Villas

In-room PC, LAN / Wi-Fi internet, satellite TV and DVD player Fine quality Belgian mattresses for your restful night every single day Never crowded swimming pool with panoramic view of lush tropical nature Single to family size, with or without kitchen, daily to monthly

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Visit our web for availability calendar

BUS TIMETABLE: to Krabi every hour 6am to 5pm to Trang every hour 8am to 3pm to Phuket every hour 7am to 4pm MARKETS: Ban Saladan Sunday mornings Lanta Old Town Monday mornings Klong Nin Saturday mornings NEED HELP ON LANTA? Tourist Police - 1155 Police - 075 668 192 Lanta Hospital - 075 697 176 Dr. Salarin - 075 684 522 Clinic in Saladan - 075 668 170

WINNER 2009-2011

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Lanta Castaway

Resort Review

A

s we crossed on the ferry to Saladan, images of a bedraggled Tom Hanks in the movie of the same name made me smirk, and I wondered how my suggestion of going feral for a few days, running about in the buff and talking gibberish to myself would go down with the wife. I quickly came to the conclusion that she probably wouldn’t notice any difference, so I let it go.

We arrived at the resort in the early evening and stepping from the truck was like stepping into another world. The name of the resort is spot on, as there is no indication that you are connected to anything resembling a “real world” once you are there.

Individual bungalows are scattered amongst pristine tropical vegetation, and the central meeting point is the reception area.

All open plan, the reception is located next to the restaurant, info center and dive shop.

We were greeted warmly and were shown to, and around, our “Sea Breeze” bungalow.

These are a far cry from the bamboo shacks of backpacker days, let me assure you. With 19 of these newly built luxury units, they come fitted with all you could possibly need for a stay in opulent comfort.

They have loads of room inside, with king sized beds, cable TV, air-con, hot showers, personal safes, minibars and more. They had even thoughtfully made up a cot for our little one, and it was ready and waiting for us inside.

After dumping the 3.5metric tonnes of equipment that comes with transporting a small child further then the length of your arm, we headed out into the fading daylight to see what we could see. It turned out to be a stunning view of the Koh Haa archipelago and a bar - each sight equally as beautiful as the other.

The Mad Bull beach bar is right on the beach and demands to be lounged around in at that time of the day. Chairs, oversized mattresses, loungers and a wooden bar stools were occupied by mostly everyone staying at the resort, watching the breathtaking spectacle that is a Lanta sunset unfold with icy beverages.

With no icy beverages of our own, I made a bee-line for the smiling young lady in

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The very title of this place conjures up images of a tropical getaway that jellifies ones bones in anticipation.

Being castaway-ed was something I was in dire need of after a long and arduous month, slaving away in the basement furnace at Krabi Magazine Towers. I had somehow made it to Koh Lanta with my wife and baby girl with the sole purpose of doing not much at all for a couple of days.

charge of the drinks cabinet and procured a couple of cold beers for us to send the day off in a fashion we have become accustomed to.

We were soon joined by Darrin, the owner and manager of the place who welcomed us to his place and instructed us to enjoy ourselves, no matter what. Not wanting to upset our host, we graciously accepted his offer and chewed the fat with him before the smell of something delicious cooking in the kitchen turned our thoughts to more important matters...

After putting baby to bed, we meandered the few meters back into the Beachcomber Restaurant, and took a table.

Soft candlelight dotted the lawn as couples and small families wandered in for the same purpose as us, no doubt lured by the same entrancing aroma. Now, I was pretty excited at this point, as this place has a specialty on top of the usual Thai and European fare that most resorts offer.

I’m pretty sure that the last time I had decent Tex-Mex food was in 1995. Anything since was either instantly forgettable or to dire to bear the name “Tex-Mex”. But Lanta Castaway is renowned for doing it very well indeed, and this was the source of my salivation.

The menus we were given were staggering

to read. The sheer choice of food available was very surprising, ranging from all the Thai classics through to burgers, pasta, salads and more. There was even a kids menu which was a nice touch, but we were here for the other stuff, and we ordered some beef fajitas and chicken quesadillas to share, and ordered another beer.

When it arrived, it was immediately obvious that this was no amateur outfit. No soggy

chicken and pallid tortillas here. No way, José. This was the real deal and it was amazing. With refried beans, mexican rice, shredded cheese, guacamole, fresh salsa, onions, peppers and more arriving at our table in little individual pots, we felt like kids on Christmas morning, mixing and matching our way through the lot. Darrin hails from the U.S of A and spent several years in Texas.

One of his friends, when visiting him at the resort, decided to train the cooks to prepare Tex-Mex food the way it was meant to be. That explained a lot!

Stuffed to the brim with beans and cheese, we decided to take out leave and return to the bungalow before the wind started to pick up - if you catch my drift…

The next morning we woke up early and had breakfast at the restaurant while I got prepared for my dives that day. As everything is located so close to each other, I actually had my dive briefing at my table while I devoured my eggs.

This was a first for me, and I was very impressed at the logistics!

Highlights • Real-deal Tex-Mex food properly made • Spotlessly clean rooms & manicured grounds • Individual bungalows for real privacy and luxury • A host of activities available for booking right at reception • Quiet and right on the beach • Expertly crafted cocktails at the bar • Super friendly staff • Massage and dive center on -site

After I returned from my underwater antics in the early afternoon, I took over the baby duties while my wife went for a well-deserved massage on the beach front - another service offered by the resort. Baby and I went for an educational walk around the grounds, touching leaves, flowers and weird hairy things before the cleaning ladies descended on us and whisked our bemused daughter away in a flurry of giggles, cheek-pinches and indecipherable Thai.

It has to be said that the staff are incredibly friendly here, and it makes all the difference to not see a surly face sloping around when you are supposed to be on holiday. Even the man who seemed to spend every waking hour picking up leaves was beaming “good morning” to us whenever we were in sight.

I stopped to chat to a couple of friendly Ozzies who couldn’t praise the place enough and were physically distraught at the prospect of their departure the next day. I could relate, as we had only been there 24 hours but were already feeling like we were on our own deserted island - complete with bar.

My wife returned renewed, invigorated and rubber-boned after her massage, and we spent the rest of the afternoon doing nothing at all.

It really is

quite the art form, and we were both embarrassingly bad at it when compared to those that had been there for a week or so already. We tried desperately not to touch any kind of iDevice throughout the day, but failed miserably when we discovered there was free WiFi throughout the resort. No rest for the wicked…

We pottered, chatted, lounged and meandered around the place until the disappearing sun drew us all towards the bar yet again for a repeat of the previous evening’s alcoholic ritual.

I had earlier noticed a blackboard proclaiming that a cocktail happy hour would be in effect from 5pm - 7pm, along with the words “margarita” and “frozen”. I was sold.

When our creations arrived, it was another nice surprise to see that the drinks were expertly prepared and presented in proper cocktail glasses.

They were ice-cool and delicious and seemed to be a real hit with the other guests, judging by the amount of brightly coloured creations that were being delivered to our neighbouring tables.

In a shameful repeat of the previous evening, I opted for more Tex-Mex grub as the waiter came to take our menu.

While Pamela opted for a change in the form of a whole BBQ’d grouper, I decided to go all out and went for a chimichanga - a deep fried burrito. Well, it’s not every day I get the chance.

As good as the previous night’s offerings, the food was beautifully presented and delicious. With our bellies full and the effects of our days activities wearing upon us, we retired for the night.

Leaving the Lanta Castaway Resort is an odd sensation. The next morning as our truck nosed out of the gates and we approached the main road on Lanta, we felt like we had indeed been castaways as we stare boggle-eyed at the traffic and people going about their daily business. Even though we aren’t exactly talking downtown New York here, even this minor amount of activity seemed like a step into a big city compared to what we had just left behind.

We are very glad to have discovered the Lanta Castaway Resort, as it truly is a real hideaway that has been honed to perfection by it’s owner and staff. If you are looking for a place to hole up in and relax for a while in style and comfort, this is the place to be.

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Dive and Relax The wonderfully titled “Dive & Relax” is the 5-star PADI dive center located on the premises of Lanta Castaway Resort. The dive shop is right next to the reception and restaurant of the resort, so there was zero commuting involved the next morning.

I was greeted by my dive buddy for the day, “Oh”, right at our breakfast table.

Oh is a Thai lady that has been diving professionally in Koh Lanta for 12 years, and has racked up over 4000 dives here alone. I didn’t even need to stand up from my table as she pulled out her iPad and went through our dive briefing right there as I devoured my muesli, showing me dive site maps and images of the marine life we could encounter. I was beginning to see the “Relax” part of the center’s name was taken more seriously than I thought, and I liked it!

Myself and the other divers were led the 10 meters down to the beach where we were met by the sleek speedboat that would take us to our destination of Phi Phi Island in 35 minutes. Our total group size of 13 people included no fewer than 5 staff members, not counting the captain and boat boy. It was a good number for the journey, giving us enough room to be as comfortable as you can get on a speedboat, without always being in someones face. The equipment was already set up onboard, the spotless dive gear strapped to shiny tanks and all secured neatly in rows, with no hanging hoses, errant masks on the floor or dripping wetsuits on seats. We were offered plenty of drinks, cool water, fruit juices and cokes before we departed. Once we were all set, off we roared towards the horizon.

I could now talk for several pages about the diving we experienced once we arrived, but I won’t. You can find a wealth of articles online about the incredible marine life, warm waters and generally stellar dives you can experience.

I think it’s more important to highlight the trip itself and they way it was handled by the staff and crew onboard.

The owner, Cameron, is a veteran of the Phi Phi diving scene and having worked • • • • • •

on the island for several months, he was determined to make something different here, and inject the “Relax” part into his venture.

One of the first changes he made was to employ more “mature” staff members.

This means that the youngest Divemaster/ Instructor here is a respectable 29 years old.

This has the effect of drastically reducing the chances of having large egos on board, which can be disastrous for all concerned.

There was no “pomp”, no showing off and no bragging of any kind - just a lot of laughter, chatter and lounging in the scorching sunshine.

into our named bags under the benches, all while we sipped cool drinks and talked excitedly about the dive. We took our seats and were soon speeding off towards the coast of Koh Lanta, where we arrived 35 minutes later. After a short walk up the beach, we were met at the resort by another staff member who welcomed us back with a smile. We flopped collectively into the same chairs we had our morning coffee in just a few hours earlier, and eyed the lunch menu hungrily.

The name “Dive and Relax” is inspired, as this is exactly was you get here. Dive trips done the way they should be. Simple.

Even though there were very experienced divers mixing with those doing it for the first time, the atmosphere was social, calm and, yes - relaxed. The logistics of getting your gear on in a small boat of 12 others is not easy, but they had done it so many times before, it was a well-oiled machine and I was in the water before I knew it. I was also delighted to discover that my “Medium” wetsuit zipped up all the way.

I little more snug than I remember, but it was on!

In-between the 2 dives, we were served a delicious lunch that made us fall silent for the first time of the day as we devoured our meal.

Back on the boat an hour later, after our second dive, the “machine” was back in action as our gear was quickly disassembled and packed away neatly

Dive and Relax are beginning their 4th season on Koh Lanta Dive groups are strictly limited to 10 divers per boat With 2 speedboats, they can offer 2 different dive destinations each day - with enough interest They have 18 staff members The minimum age of staff members is 29 years. They are all very experienced with no recently qualified Divemasters or Instructors.

With a strict “No Classroom” policy for PADI learners, they give students portable DVD players so they can watch their instructional videos on the beach with a fruit shake!

• The speedboat captains and boat crew for Dive & Relax are trained to PADI Rescue Diver standard • Dive & Relax are ranked Number 1 on Trip Advisor for tours on Koh Lanta

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Twist and Shout!

By Suzi Hall Massage is a cornerstone of Thai culture It is also one of the many reasons why I live here as it is respected and socially acceptable. As a practitioner you aren’t the receiver of raised eyebrows or seedy men calling asking for extras (some of my fond experiences from the UK).

The traditional massage is called “nuat phaen boran”. Its literal meaning is “ancientmanner” massage. Nuat phaen boran consists of a series of deep static rhythmic pressures and yogic style stretches applied while lying on the floor. The Buddhist spiritual practise encompassed in Thai massage should bring the therapist closer to a deeper level of understanding of their client and a compassionate state referred to as “metta”, which usually translates as “loving kindness”.

Regular massage can deliver many benefits in addition to relaxation of body and mind.

These are a couple I believe to be important Rehabilitation of tight overused muscles, by breaking down the myofibril tissue to replenish and build new, stronger muscle tissue.

It stimulates lymphatic drainage, which is our body’s natural defence system.

An article regarding massage published in the Wall Street Journal in March 2012 reported that; “The benefits go beyond feelings of relaxation and wellness that people may recognize after a massage. The American College of Physicians and the American Pain Society now include massage as one of their recommendations for treating low back pain, according to guidelines published in 2007.”

To experience a real Thai massage I would advise you to visit a temple rather than basing your experience on a mushy one from the beach. You should feel like you’ve done 5 rounds with a 350 pound wrestler, and not - as is usually the reality, a diminutive 50 pound lady who gets immense pleasure from kneeling on your back while discussing what they ate for lunch on their phone.

My most recent experience was with a very small, extremely flexible and feisty Thai woman. I’ll begin with the highlights of my two-hour massage at the temple in Nakhon Si Thammarat. I say ‘high’ light. The only high I reached was through my yogic deep breathing to help me endure the excruciating pain.

I was prodded, pulled and yanked into all kinds of positions. The woman had a deep satisfaction for cracking my fingers, doing it four times and pulling them as though she wouldn’t be completely happy until they were no longer connected to my body.

The pinnacle of the experience was when she put her knee in my hamstring and said “oh so strong”, and then put her elbow in my hip and bum while rubbing my IT band (that tight part on the outside of your leg).

I felt like I could really take off then - either that or cry and run away, (if I could get up

which I doubted at this point).

In walks her daughter and she insists I say hello, still with her knee in my hamstring. I gasped a “swadee ka” and they descended into laughter. I’m not sure why Thai people often seem to laugh at us awkward, big foreigners. Then the daughter gets on and I have a tag-team situation going on with my hamstrings. “I know this will do me good, I know this will do me good”.

I mention that my neck hurts and the mum brings out a wooden instrument with tiger balm on. She proceeds to use it on my neck, and it is out–of-this-world-nice (a few days later there is more laughter as it dawns on me that my neck looks like it’s had some love bite action) So, these were the points I remember between almost blacking and blissing out.

I stood up and felt as though I had a new body, with my muscles feeling all lovely and loose again. I paid 240 Thai Baht for two hours (a bargain) Usually massages can cost from 120 in a temple to 250 upwards elsewhere. I would enthusiastically encourage any visitor to Thailand to experience a Thai massage, I try to have a one every six weeks and it’s without doubt the best money I spend in Thailand.

That and sticky rice, obviously.

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Eating Guide koh lanta Seven Seas Wine Bar & Restaurant @ Pimalai Resort & Spa 99 Moo 5, Ba Kan Tiang Beach. Head south, turn right at the Klong Nin junction and keep going.

A truly stunning place that demands you stand slack-jawed as you walk into it. Open-plan everywhere - even the kitchen - with some of the best views you can hope to witness whilst enjoying your meal. Their chef is a talent to behold, and the food from the kitchens here is topnotch indeed.

The restaurant and its show kitchen offer a comprehensive “a la carte” fusion style dinner menu which means that superior ingredients from all over the globe are marinated, cooked and served together on the same plate - generating a symphony of flavours. The presentation of the food is beautiful and it’s a feast for the eyes even before you pick up your fork.

A wide-ranging collection of international wines has been assembled from which you can select an ideal accompaniment to your meal.

Average price: 400-900++THB What to Try: The Boeuf Charolais Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: 6:30am - 10:30am & 3pm - 11pm Tel: +66 (0) 75 607 999 Website: www.pimalai.com

Tides Restaurant @ Layana Resort & Spa 272 Moo 3 Saladan, Phra-Ae Beach, Ko Lanta. Head South and look for the sign on the right side.

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.

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.

The menu quality is matched by an extensive wine list to compliment the food perfectly.

Average price: 400-900++THB What to Try: The Healthy Spa Cuisine Menu Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: 6:30am - 10:30am & 11:30am - 6pm Tel: + 66 (0) 75 607 100 Website: www.layanaresort.com

Time for Lime - Fusion Restaurant 72/2 Moo 3, Saladan, Koh Lanta 81150. Head South and look for the sign .

This place has been one of the best little places on Koh Lanta since it opened it’s doors 7.5 years ago. Owned by Junie, a Norwegian who loves animals as much as her food, Time For Lime has become a haven for those who want to indulge in both of her passions.

Her workshops in Thai cookery are legendary as she has a unique fusion style that differs from the usual Thai lessons you normally find. During her classes, expect to re-create dishes such as the signature Time for Lime soup, scampi wrapped in wild pepper leaves and even the wonderfully titled “sesame seed crusted barracuda balls with ginger on a bed of white radish & wasabi dip”.

A great, friendly, laid back atmosphere is only accentuated by the jazz and chillout music that plays around the beachfront kitchen, and the homemade mojitos that come from here have been copied, but never matched.

Average price: 150 - 500 THB What to Try: The 6-dish tasting menu Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: 5pm - 10:30pm Except Mondays Tel: +66 (0) 75684590 Website: www.timeforlime.net

Beachcomber Restaurant @ Lanta Castaway Resort 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.

The atmosphere is relaxed, the staff is friendly, and the setting is beautiful with a lovely garden and a terrific view of Long Beach and the Andaman Sea. You’ll also want to enjoy a before and/or after dinner drink at our beach bar which serves up a wide variety of cocktails and delicious frozen drinks.

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Average price: 250-350THB What to Try: The Tex-Mex food Free WiFi?: For bungalow guests only Opening Hours: Open daily from 7am - 9pm.

Tel: +66 (0) 75684851 Website: www.lantacastaway.com

DID YOU KNOW....

Our profits are donated to the charity LANTA ANIMAL WELFARE So.. come Learn, Eat & Drink your hearts out!

AND FEEL GOOD

Cooking School thai & fusion Restaurant Beach Bar

Fun & Professional evening Cooking Classes on the Beach Front

HAPPY HOURS 3 - 6 pm On our FAMOUS Cocktails

FANTASTIC 6 dish Tasting Menu that changes every evening

Bungalows

8 cozy air-con & fan

9 years with Quality & Funky Atmosphere Closed Mondays

KLONG DAO BEACH - KO LANTA Tel: 075 684 590 www.timeforlime.net

Koh Jum Island - Plugged In but still unplugged Story by : Jeffrey Dietrich

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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 on this tranquil island. 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 from the mainland. So now that Koh Jum is plugged in, has it lost its reputable unplugged character that has attracted intrepid travelers over the past couple of decades?

We are pleased to report that Koh Jum is as tranquil and laid back as it always has been. In fact, what is noticeable are the lack of noisy generators at most of the resorts.

Folks come to Koh Jum to unplug; the island’s nature and culture still dominates the minimal tourist infrastructure. The

existing resorts on Koh Jum all have their own family run character ranging from the back packers paradise Bo Deng run by two laughing souls, Dila and Rosa, all the way up to the stunningly beautiful Koh Jum Beach Villas, an eco villa resort with exquisite villas tucked in an incredible botanical garden.

Koh Pu Mountain is the dominant geological feature on the island at over 400 meters. A great hike for the adventurous and a vital refuge of native habitat still harbouring Asian Pied Hornbills and Burmese Pythons. The three villages, Koh Pu, Ting Rai and Koh Jum are situated on the back side of the island amongst the mangroves. Resorts are located facing the open Andaman Sea. This division allows the villages to remain authentic without any significant tourist infrastructure while

the resorts are all located on the beaches.

Access to the island is by longtail taxi boats located on the mainland 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 that stops at two locations on Koh Jum out at sea where long tail boats come out to meet passengers to take them ashore. The lack of any deep ports on the island keep the ferry boats out at sea and also prevent large masses of tourists from ever 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 Getting to Koh Jum can be very simple or a bit of a nightmare - all depending on how much you know about getting there. This is where we come in - we decided to make the journey ourselves and tell you exactly how and when to get there with the least amount of hassle.

There are 2 ways you can get to Koh Jum by passing ferry or longtail boat. There are ferries that leave from Koh Lanta at 8am and Krabi at 11am, which will stop as they get alongside Koh Jum and longtail boats will come and take you the rest of the way.

Koh Phi Phi also has ferries leaving at 2pm that operate on the same principle.

The second way is to get to a place called Laem Kruat and take a longtail boat for 40 mins to the island, and this is what we decided to do.

If you are driving, it takes about 1 hour to get from Ao Nang to Laem Kruat. You just head to Tesco and continue until you see the large overhead signs that tell you to turn right for “Koh Jam”. This road will

lead to to the small locality of Laem Kruat, where you will find a large pier.

If you don’t have transport of your own, you can catch a blue and yellow “sawngthaew” the local bus that has benches in the back.

It has the words “Krabi, Bus Station, Tesco, Big C, Laem Kruat” written on it, which is easy to spot. This will leave from all of these locations at intervals throughout the day and will take you to the pier.

Now, the pier is a bit misleading. We waited at the end of the pier before realising the longail taxis were passing us by and docking at the mainland. 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.

We got on and soon we were chugging along through the mangroves with a boat full of happy local Muslim women that looked as if they hadn’t changed a bit since 1925. We arrived at Koh Jum 45 minutes later, paid our 70 Baht fare each 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 - well worth the experience.

If you know the name of the pier on Jum you need to get to, just ask anyone in this area and they will direct you to the correct boat.

Koh Jum Koh Jum, also confusingly called by it’s other name of Koh Pu, is actually named after the 420 meter high mountain that dominates the horizon of the north part of the island.

Located midway between Krabi and Koh Lanta Yai, 25 km from Krabi Town, Koh Jum is predominantly a large Muslim populated sub-district of Krabi and is home to 1,500 inhabitants that live in three tiny fishing villages.

The locals of these villages engage mostly in fishing, rubber cultivation and the local craft of cloth weaving as cottage industries. While the north is mountainous, the south comprises dense jungle, cashew nut trees, rubber plantations, casuarinas and nipa-palms.

The string of beaches on the west coast has several simple, wooden bungalow resorts and a community of private beach homes sitting among the palms, each offering sunset views over the silhouettes of the Koh Phi Phi archipelago.

Koh Jum is ideal both for young travelers who want to rest their

bones after some hard backpacking and for families with kids, looking for a worry free holiday in a place where children can run and swim in complete safety. Nature is at your feet there, and if it’s serenity you’re after, you can’t go wrong. Electricity just arrived in Koh Jum only relatively recently and some smaller resorts are still powered by generator. Progress is imminent and already in motion as more resorts and restaurants look set to open up soon.

Getting There There is a ferry terminal about 35 - 40km south of Krabi town, in a place called Laem Kruat, that can take you to the islands, the last one departs at around 3pm. It costs around 50 Baht per person.

Another option is to take a ferry directly from Krabi or Koh Lanta.

This might be an easier and more reliable option for most people.

A new ferry service has started from/to Koh Phi Phi Islands.

A short stop into your nearest travel agent will furnish you with the latest times and tickets for your journey. Contact the resort you wish to stay at for assistance with transportation.

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Nature Series Koh Jum

Blue-Tailed Bee-Eater Story : Jeffrey Dietrich

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owards the end of October and into November, avian visitors on the wing migrate into Krabi Province from the north. Migratory birds mark the changing of the seasons and one of the most spectacular and easily seen visitors is the Blue-Tailed Bee-Eater. They frequent open coastal areas and can often be seen in groups on solitary trees and electrical wires in open rural areas. Here on Koh Jum Beach Villas they arrive at the end of October and are found regularly along the entrance road usually perched in the open on Melaleuca trees. They are present during most of the high season and head back up north to their breeding areas in March.

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he Blue-Tailed Bee-Eater like most of its tribe feeds on stinging insects along with other large insects like dragonflies and butterflies. They sally out from their perch and capture their prey on the wing by gaining speed and sweeping down on them. For this reason they are usually found perched at least 7 meters above the ground which happens to be the relative height of electrical wires where they are frequently seen in rural areas. When they catch a large stinging insect like a wasp or bee they can often be observed whacking the insect on a branch before feeding.

They are acrobatic flyers and fortunately they have adapted to disturbed areas like open roadside habitats and the margins of agricultural areas and rural human settlements. They can be found in scrub and forest habitats, in mangroves and grasslands. The Blue-Tailed Bee-Eater breeds, forages and migrates in large groups. Sometimes up to 50 birds can be seen in open areas feeding together and up to hundreds have been observed roosting in the evening.

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ake a walk here on Koh Jum in the late afternoon along the beach and dip inland just 50 meters or so in open scrub habitat and you can observe these spectacular birds in beautiful lighting sallying forth in large groups foraging for their last bees, wasps, dragonflies and butterflies before going off to their secret roosting areas.

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Tales of Telecom Hybrid Cars Finally Affordable in Thailand

By Emily Huang-Ramirez

By Jesada Chandraprasert, Techonology Thailand

To say that Thailand lags behind other Asian countries in telecommunications networks is an understatement. While many of our neighbors are busy implementing their 4G networks-Laos implemented their technology this past November- Thailand has yet to launch a proper 3G service, more than a decade after it was first introduced in Japan. Currently, Thai mobile operators are using limited 3G, which is actually upgraded 2G technology. We know…*Gasp!* Those tricksters!

Not content with holding the title for bestselling car in many markets, Honda is looking to corner the Thai hybrid car market with the recently released Jazz Hybrid, or Fit Hybrid as it’s known in a few other markets.

The auction of 3G licenses held by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) kicked off in November.

Incessant domestic political and business disputes are to blame, and the path to 3G might face more challenges as investigations have been carried out to see whether the auction results or the NBTC violated any laws.

Despite this, mobile operators continue to ready themselves for the advent of 4G technology while still attempting to bring Thailand up to full 3G speed. Advanced Info Service (AIS) has been running 4G trials in Bangkok and Maha Sarakham since May, but Total Access Communication (dtac) is looking to be the frontrunner in this race, with recent publication of their successful 4G tests in Bangkok. Dtac has 15,700 base stations across Thailand with over 5,000 of them set to be fully 3G enabled by the end of the year.

“Our current network system would enable us to switch on 3G and 4G signals less than 15 minutes at each base station and bring state-of-the-art services, as well as new possibilities and limitless opportunities to our customers nationwide,” said Darmp Sukontasap, Dtac chief corporate affairs officer.”

Marketed as the affordable hybrid, Honda has undercut the price of Toyota’s Prius line of hybrid vehicles by nearly half a million baht with a 769,000 baht (US$24,417) sticker price. Add in the government subsidy for first time car owners and you can almost buy two of these babies for the price of a midrange Prius.

Hybrids have long since been viewed as something of a middleclass luxury as prices start at just over one million baht. Honda’s current hybrid offering is the CR-Z and has a sticker price of just under two million baht.

Toyota currently has three models for the eco-conscious to chose from, in the form of the Camry, Prius and Prius-C hybrids. Soon to be added to its stable of green machines is the Yaris hybrid.

It’s finally time for green to be affordable here in Thailand.

So, be patient grasshoppers; faster, more reliable networks are on their way. On the bright side, at least we’re not Myanmar.

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The Krabi villa with everything Introducing Ao Nang’s first beachfront pool villa for the holiday rental market

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magine a beautiful contemporary villa, nestled in a small private cove, on a 2,000 m² plot whose garden of tropical fruit trees leads down to a sandy beach fringed with ancient mangrove forest. On one side is the sparkling emerald sea with a string of islands on the horizon; on the other a backdrop of majestic limestone cliffs that divide this area from the famed Railay peninsula, considered to be the most stunning stretch of coast on the Thai mainland.

The villa is luxurious and totally private.

Completely cut off from the package tourist crowds of Ao Nang, yet within a few minutes’ drive of its excellent shopping and dining.

The Beach House is a unique property in the Ao Nang area – the one and only absolute beachfront villa with convenient road access, allowing guests to explore with ease both the marine and inland attractions that Krabi has to offer, plus be within half an hour of Krabi International airport.

“We believe this location makes this villa very special,” says Pierre-Yves Loriers, Managing Director of Krabi Riviera Co., Ltd, which manages the property. “The beach is private

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and the surroundings are quiet and green, so guests can enjoy complete seclusion, without the problems found in other similar Krabi villas – taking luggage on longtail boats, having no access to shops, being forced to eat in the same few restaurants every night.”

Part of Krabi Riviera’s signature service, available in all of its villas, is an on-demand tuk-tuk taxi service, which takes guests anywhere in the local area from 9am – 10pm, from local markets to boutiques and fine dining restaurants. Should guests

prefer to stay home, the villa concierge can organize a private Thai chef to cook and serve tailor-made meals.

The villa itself sleeps up to 10 people. There are four individual king-size suites, each with en-suite bathroom, plus a TV / media room with a double sofa bed. All are air-conditioned, and three rooms are sea-facing, with panoramic views. Communal space is centered round a (covered) al fresco kitchen and dining area that opens out onto the pool deck.

The swimming pool has an infinity edge, as well as seating and a Jacuzzi area.

“We expect that most guests will be honeymooners, or groups of friends looking for a luxury getaway. In fact, the private beach in front of the villa would make an ideal location for a small, intimate wedding, with reception held in the villa afterwards,” says Loriers.

The Beach House is in its final construction phase.

Work is to be completed in March 2013 and bookings are being taken from May 2013 onwards.

Krabi Riviera Co. Ltd. provides exclusive pool villas for luxurious, yet surprisingly affordable holidays in Krabi. All our villas are located in or near to the sought after Krabi holiday resorts of Ao Nang Beach.

Krabi Riviera boast a desirable selection of the best villas in Krabi, that come fully equipped with designer kitchens, sumptuous bathrooms and private pools set in secure and secluded grounds.

Krabi Riviera Co. Ltd has built a solid reputation in Krabi for delivering outstanding customer service that combines the best elements of western professionalism and hospitality.

Guests are treated to unlimited and complimentary taxi service within Ao Nang from 9 AM to 10 PM, a private concierge and a range of optional extras that include personal catering, in-house massage and beauty treatments and excursion booking.

To find out more about Krabi Riviera

properties take a look at: www.KrabiVilla.com We can be contacted at: 084 154 08-08 or 075 695-633 or by email at: info@KrabiVilla.com

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Foreign Ownership in Thailand If you are thinking about buying land or property in Thailand, there are several ways you can do this. This month we look at one option, the Condominium Condominium: Acquiring a condominium is gaining in popularity amongst foreigners. A condominium is a building that can have its separate portions sold to individuals or groups for personal property ownership.

Foreign purchasers are allowed under Thai law to purchase and own condominiums in Thailand.

There are five classes of criteria which alternative qualify foreigners as owners of condominium:

a. Holding a residency permit under Thai Immigration law, or b. Permitted to stay in Thailand under the Investment Promotion law (BIO), or c. A Thai registered entity with at least 51% of share held by Thai shareholder, or d. Foreign juristic entity in receipt of a promotion certificate under the Investment Promotion law (BOI), or A foreigner or foreign entity remitting a foreign currency into Thailand, or withdrawing money from Thai Baht account of the persons residing abroad, or withdrawing from foreign currency account.

Fortunately, the last criteria applies to most foreign condominium purchasers and therefore it is the most typical way for foreigners to buy a condominium in Thailand.

According to the condominium act, foreigners or a foreign legal entity normally can acquire up to, but not exceeding 49% of a condominium block (direct freehold).

If a foreigner wants to register the purchase at the Land Office he has to submit a letter of guarantee from the condominium juristic person which proofs the proportion of foreign ownership among other documents. If the quota of 49% is already used, he can set a Thai company to purchase a condominium without restrictions.

Another option is leasing. Condominium leases, like land leased are generally prepaid for 30 years with options of renewing for two additional 30 year periods.

In effect, the pre-paid rent is the same as a freehold or purchase price.

the Land Department when the foreign purchaser registers the purchase. The amount of money fixed in the FET form must cover the whole of the condominium price. Should the remittance be less than $20000 USD, the bank will issue a “credit advice” in English which is not acceptable by the Land Office as proof of remittance for the condominium purchase. In case of this, the purchaser has to ask the bank to issue a “letter of guarantee” as evidence of remittance.

Info from www.propertyguidethailand.com

A further restriction according to the Condominium Act is that a foreigner must bring currency into Thailand to finance the purchase of the condominium. However, expats which are working in Thailand can use funds earned in Thailand on condition that their funds are paid into a non-resident account.

Further, the purchaser must obtain a Foreign Exchange Transaction form(FET) from the bank as proof of the remittance. This form will be issued by the receiving bank and is filed at

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computer generated image

It’s

no exaggeration to say that The Pelican Krabi makes the dream of living in paradise a truly attainable reality. Located on Klong Muang beach on Krabi’s millionaire mile, it shares the neighbourhood with an array of highend luxury resorts such as The Sheraton, Sofitel and Phulay Bay - a Ritz Carlton reserve.

Overlooking some of the world’s finest beaches, the Pelican complex is nestled amid 40 rai of lush tropical rainforest.

With warm breezes flowing through your hair, coupled with breathtaking panoramic views of the coast and the sparkling sea beyond give residents some of Asia’s most spectacular and enjoyable scenery.

With many new destinations being serviced with direct flights to Krabi, paradise is easily accessible for those caught in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Situated only 1 hour from Bangkok, Kuala Lampur and Singapore, Krabi has experienced a new wave of urbanites making the simple journey for a few days of unbeatable pleasure and relaxation on Krabi’s transcendent coast.

With every season that passes, more and more travellers are talking about their time in Krabi and more and more are coming to see for themselves what makes this place so special. The recent opening of Krabi airport’s second terminal has brought a wave of new international flights to Krabi; Moscow, Frankfurt, Stockholm and Beijing, to name a few.

The Pelican is at the forefront of this growth, being the largest mixed residential complex in the region. The Pelican guarantees residents an unprecedented level of

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privacy and access to an array of facilities and services that constitute the ultimate in rest, relaxation, entertainment and recreation.

Once completed The Pelican will consist of 96 condominium units ranging from 1-3 bedrooms and between 80-180 sq. meters.

The recent signing of Jones Lang LeSalle to manage the condominium after its completion has brought new-found investors. Not only does Jones Lang LeSalle offer great property management experience but also great rental management opportunities. Now owners can rest assured their investment is not only a second home, but is also earning them an income .

Once completed, the condominium will feature such common amenities as a 90 meter saltwater purified swimming pool, 24 hour security, a fitness center as well as a deli and lounge area for all residents.

As residents enjoy these facilities, they will also feel comfortable and

at peace in their private homes with high vaulted ceilings, wide open spaces and a large private veranda where they can watch the sun melt into the horizon. The freehold condominium units come fullyfurnished with everything one could need and start at 6.8 million THB for the 81 sq. meter units.

Construction is well underway now and is expected to be completed and ready for transfer by the middle of 2013. The sea-facing show building A will be ready for viewing this coming December and will provide a model for all visitors to see.

Located at the top of our property, we have our largest villa complete and ready for walk-through inspections.

The Pelican development also comprises a beach-side exclusive restaurant and lounge area where residents and guests can enjoy local cuisine such as tom-yum goong (spicy lemongrass shrimp soup), gang keaw-wan (green curry) or a simple pad-thai (Thai noodles) as they relax with their feet in the sand and their minds at bliss. In addition to the beach club The Pelican development will also contain a 140 room branded hotel and 20 other private villas ranging in size from 250 sq. meters to 470 sq. meters.

It stands impressively on the hill with 470 sq. meters of living space divided into 3 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, overlooking the Andaman bay below - seeing this alone is worth the trip to visit us!

The Pelican development also comprises a beach-side exclusive restaurant and lounge area. The restaurant will consist of 3 floors; the top being a sundeck and lounge area where you can intimately dine and enjoy the sunset. The second floor will feature trendy and modern cuisine and be more suited for large groups while the first floor will be a modern Japanese style restaurant where guests and residents can enjoy succulent sushi, sashimi and teriyaki glazed chicken strips and other traditional Japanese dishes as they relax with their feet in the sand and their minds at bliss. In addition to the beach club The Pelican development will also contain a 140 room branded hotel and 20 other private villas ranging in size from 250 sq. meters to 470 sq. meters.

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hether it is a condominium, an investment or a private villa The Pelican can help you with many of your needs. We warmly invite you to visit our sales office and construction site during your stay here in Krabi, we are open daily from 9:30-6 and if you call first we would be happy to pick you up from your hotel at your convenience. We are located on the beach road in Klong Muang next to The Sofitel and Krabi Sands resort, if you drive through Klong Muang you cannot miss us.

If you like the prospect of investing in a seaside condominium or villa, please visit our website at www.THEPELICANKRABI.com or contact us directly at sales@Thepelicankrabi.com or call our office line at 083-585-9955 with any questions you might have.

Property Management

thepelicankrabi

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Rattan Designs It’s really amazing the way humans employ technology to turn objects from nature into different shapes and forms. Rattan furniture is one such example. Rattan furniture is actually made from cane. Cane, as you may know, is one of the toughest materials in the whole wide world. You can’t really just go into the wild, harvest some cane and transform it into another different thing with some kind of technology.

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owever, nothing can stop human beings from adapting to the environment. Rattan cane is readily available in many Asian countries like Thailand, Indonesia or Philippines. They are harvested, and then treated with a special process so that it’s soft enough to work with. First, the cane is heated up at extremely high temperatures. When exposed to heat for some time, the cane starts to soften. Cane is then put through special machines to be cut into smaller pieces so that they are easier to work with. Furniture frames made from wood, plastic or steel are prepared. Once the cane has been processed, it is then weaved around the furniture frame: a piece of brand new furniture has been born.

Images from http://www.daro-cane.co.uk

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Today, the most commonly seen weaving method used in furniture is with caning, perhaps because weaving canes is the quickest method: the pattern is simple, with canes overlapping one another at right angles. As you can see, cane becomes a very versatile material when treated; hence it can be used to make a wide variety of furniture.

The personal taste of homeowners has been constantly evolving, and furniture manufacturers have had to respond quickly to continue catering

to the ever-changing needs of the market. You can find all sorts of rattan furniture - L-shaped sofa sets, coffee tables with modern designs, bar seats, comfortable armchairs, and more!

Rattan furniture can be used indoors or outdoors (under cover). It creates a natural relaxing ambient. That’s why rattan furniture is commonly used in holiday resorts and hotels: they get people to relax! You can achieve the same effect in your very own home when you place use furniture in your house. You can place them in places where people are supposed to relax.

Some examples are study rooms, personal reading corners or poolside.

Some rattan furniture has cushions on them. When cleaning rattan furniture, simply remove the cushions and wipe the furniture frame with a slightly wet cloth. Allow it to air for a couple of hours before replacing the cushions.

If the furniture is caught in the rain, dry it immediately with a dry cloth once the rain stops.

Thanks to its cheap pricing, beautiful designs and durability, rattan furniture is becoming one of the most popular choices among homeowners... Join the club!

Nong Thale River Residence

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Custom designed villas & holiday rentals

c i g a Live am magic life!

Experience the difference

Modern minimalistic Villa Ao Nang

Nong Thale River Residence l l l l l l l

www.nongthaleriverresidence.com

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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 Environment aware construction Project management and rental service Good accessibility for seniors Opportunity to experience on site before buying

350 m

4034 Krabi

4024 Klong Muang

Wat Klong Son

info@kamalot-ltd.com

+66 (0) 818940675

Kamalot

Co. Ltd. Land & Development

บริษัท กมล๊อต จำกัด

89

Thai Spirit Houses Story : Steve Crawford

W

hilst travelling in Thailand it is more than likely you have seen a ‘Spirit House’. Spirit worship or animism is as old as mankind itself. It was a religion by which the entire world lived at one time, and when Buddhism came to Southeast Asia, it developed side by side with this ancient spirit religion.

The spirit house is one of the most visible fundamental features of Thai life and culture. There are spirit houses everywhere in Thailand, and just about every home has one, this can also encompass schools, businesses and even petrol stations. The purpose of the ‘Spirit House’ is to provide an appealing shelter for the spirits, or celestial beings, who would otherwise reside in the heavens.

A spirit house, or ‘san phra phum’ in Thai, is a shrine to animist spirits found in the Southeast Asian countries such as Cambodia, Laos and Thailand. Most homes and businesses have a spirit house placed in an auspicious spot, most often in a corner of the property. The location is often chosen after thorough consultation with a Brahmin priest, with the spirit house normally in the form of a miniature temple mounted on a pillar or dais. When people build homes on the land it is believed that they disturb the local spirits. In order to pacify these spirits you need to build them a house more splendid than your own. This house is intended to provide a shelter for spirits which could cause problems for the people if not appeased.

There are numerous gods and other celestial beings in Thai folklore. The primary spirits the Thai’s are concerned with, however, are called the ‘Phra Bhum Jowthee’, or guardian

THANEE ATTORNEY & COUNSELOR AT LAW

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spirits of the land. According to folklore, the spirits themselves are either good or evil, but most are just finicky and mischievous, demanding respect from humans and capable of disastrous consequences if they don’t get their way. Offerings are left at the house to pacify these spirits. Traditional offerings may include flower garlands, betel leaves, bananas, rice, chicken, duck, and a wide range of other edibles and no edibles. Candles are often used while incense is usually lit daily before a spirit house. The house may be permanent or

temporary, made of wood, concrete or brick. There are nine spirit guardians and each offer a different type of protection.

The guardian of the House and the guardian of the Garden are so frequently consulted with and prayed to that they are the only two that have permanent spirit houses specifically built for them.

The houses are decorated with statues, small figures, or symbols of many other sorts in the center within the spirit house.

In addition, there may be various animal figures, such as elephants or hones; figures of people, such as a married couple or

other images; and even furniture. Outside, around the balcony that usually surrounds a spirit house, incense holders, candle sticks, and vases for flowers are placed.

Thai families who believe wholeheartedly in the spirit house and its importance light incense every morning and ask the spirit to watch over and protect the home. Others do it on ritual occasions. Various temporary spirit houses are built when requiring the mediation of a particular spirit, and can be constructed at any time and at any place.

At certain times the spirits are invited down only for special occasions and this is when temporary spirit houses are built, while the size may vary from the very small to a large walk-in, ground-level affair.

The style and construction of a spirit house may be as simple as a typical Thai-style shelter or as elaborate as a Thai palace. The exact style often depends on two factors, which spirit the person wishes to invite, and how much one can afford for the construction. This is a specialized field and only an expert Spirit House builder would be considered for proper construction. His responsibility, in addition to construction, is to be familiar with all the necessary rituals involved so that the spirit to be invited will find it an acceptable earthly abode.

So what happens to old spirit houses? When changes dictate that a new spirit house be created, a ceremony will be held to transfer the spirit from the old spirit house to the new one. After that, the old spirit house can be discarded. Many are discarded near a temple or ‘wat’, but usually at a place where other spirit houses have been discarded so it is common to see many old spirit houses jumbled together.

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Путеводитель по

краби

ПЛЯЖИ Ао Нанг находится в 20-ти км от города Краби и является одним из самых развитых пляжей Краби, с белым песком и отвесными скалами. Ао Нанг предлагает широкий диапазон услуг для проживания и сервиса. На главной улице есть рестораны, бары, пабы, магазины сувениров, дайвинг-центры, туристические агентства, массаж и СПА центры. Ао Нанг является отправной точкой для путешествий на лодке по морю на близлежащие острова. Пляж Ноппаратара протяженностью 3 км. находится за пляжем Ао Нанг. Этот пляж все еще мало развит и имеет всего лишь несколько ресторанов и баров. Привлекательный, естественный вид пляжа собирает по выходным местную молодежь и их семьи насладиться закатом. Попробуйте местные мусульманские сладости в “макашницах”, которые расположены в конце пляжа. Также, насладитесь морепродуктами в местных ресторанчиках, которые находятся у офиса национального парка Ноппаратара. Во время отлива, пройдитесь по набережной, вместе с миллионами маленьких крабов, по песчаной косе до ближайших островов. Пляжи Рэйлэй разделены от Краби и Ао Нанга большими известняковыми горами. У полуострова Рэйлэй есть 2 стороны, Восточная и Западная, которые просто восхитительны: кристально чистая вода, песчаные пляжи, дикие горы, скалистые острова выступающие из моря. Рэйлэй находится в 15-ти минутах от АоНанга

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и в 30-ти минутах от города Краби, вы сможете добраться до него только на лодке . Насладитесь коктейлем в одном из пляжных баров, посетите пещеру “Прананг” проверьте себя на курсах по скалолазанию, поднимитесь на вершину горы, и спуститесь в лагуну или просто расслабьтесь на пляже. Соседний пляж Тонсай “Tonsai” распалагается в основании скалы и разделяет Рэйлэй на Западную и Восточную часть. Это небольшой, красивый пляж с пологим дном. Пляж Клонг Муанг находится в 20-ти км. от Ао Нанга, и в 40 км от Краби. Это новое место с развивающейся инфраструктурой, в котором вы сможете провести великолепные выходные. Именно здесь вы получите незабываемый отдых, в окружении девственной природы. Пляж Туб Каек (Tubkaek) - это еще один чистый, спокойный пляж, в котором можно оставаться в дали от цивилизации. С него открывается потрясающий вид на архипелаг островов Хонг (Koh Hong) и очаровательные закаты. С пляжа, вы можете дойти до национального парка и подняться на вершину горы и посмотреть водопад. На пляжах Ко Ланты (Koh Lanta) огромное количество курортов на любой вкус и достаток. Остров Ланта Яй (Lаnta Yai) славится длинными, белыми, песчаными пляжами переходящими в изумрудное море. Гуляя, по южной части острова, вы можете наткнуться на уединенный райский уголок с высаженной тропической растительностью.

ПРИРОДНЫЕ ИСТОЧНИКИ Известняковые горы и отвесные скалы характеризуют местность Краби, а наиболее зрелищным и массивным является Сай Тай (Sai Tai). Не далеко от Ао Нанга (Ao Nang) есть уникальное геологическое место - Сюзан Хой (Susaan Hoi) “кладбище ракушек” . Плиты у побережья моря, напоминающие куски старого, потрескавшегося асфальта, на самом деле – плиты, спрессованные из остатков древних моллюсков, чей возраст более 40 млн. лет. Территория кладбища ракушек была в доисторические времена пресным болотом, на дне которого тысячелетиями накапливались ракушечные отложения. Впоследствии, болото пересохло, а останки его обитателей теперь виднеются на поверхности в виде песчаных плит 40-сантиметровой толщины. К кладбищу моллюсков примыкает живописный мангровый лес, в котором проложены специальные туристические тропы. Крупнейший природный парк провинции Краби Као Пханом Бенча (Khao Phanom Bencha), находится всего в 20 км. от города Краби. Этот Национальный парк является домом для множества редких растений и диких животных, среди которых леопарды, пантеры, тигры, тапиры и гиббоны. Гора Phanom Bencha (1350 м.) является территориальным и туристическим центром всего заповедника. С горы сбегает 5 водопадов, крупнейший из которых Хуай Тох (Huay Toh), расположен всего в 500 метрах от входа в парковую зону. Еще одной популярной туристической

карбоната кальция. Вода в пруд поступает из горячих источников и имеет в разных местах разную температуру от 25°С до 49°С градусов. Здесь можно поплавать, полежать и отдохнуть душой и телом. Термальный источник Хот Спрингс в Клонг Том (Hot Springs of Klong Thom) представляет из себя смесь водопада с парной под открытым небом. Вулканические горячие ключи нагревают поток до 30°С – 40°С, превращая водопад в естественную сауну, вода в которой, к тому же, насыщенна полезными минералами.

достопримечательностью заповедника является пещера Tham Khao Pheung, украшенная живописными сталактитами и сталагмитами. Национальный парк Тарнбок Корании (Tarnbok Khoranee) находится в северной части региона, состоит из известняковых гор, зеленых тропических лесов, пещер, и красивых островов. Хорошо известен различными видами деревьев, растущих вокруг большого природного кристально чистого бассейна, и более сотен видов птиц. Пещерный комплекс Пи Хуа Тох (Phi Hua Toh) расположенный в районе Бор Тора (Bor Thor), состоит из нескольких пещер, каждая из которых уникальна. В некоторые из них, вы можете попасть на лодке, только во время отлива. Здесь вы сможете полюбоваться потрясающей красоты сталактитами и сталагмитами, древнейшими наскальными рисунками и следами доисторических поселений. Са Маракот (Sa Morakot) изумрудный бассейн. Это чудо природы, пруд с бирюзовой водой, питаемый горячими источниками в центре джунглей. Берега пруда представляют собой желтоватый камень, такой цвет ему придают отложения

ОСТРОВА Отправьтесь на остров Ко Пода (Koh Poda), который покрыт пальмами и почти полностью окружен мягким белым песчаным пляжем. Коралловый риф находится примерно в 20 метрах от пляжа с богатым разнообразием морской жизни. Также, вы можете посетить соседний остров Ко Кай (Koh Kai) или “Куриный остров”, который получил свое название от необычной формы скалы с одного конца острова, которая выглядит как голова и шея страуса или курицы. Одна часть острова состоит из крутых скал, другая имеет красивые пляжи. Теплая и чистая вода острова с богатым миром кораллов является популярным местом среди любителей снорклинга и дайвинга. Оттуда можно прогуляться по песчаной косе до острова Ко Туб (Koh Tub). Можно взять тур на лодке или на катере до архипелага островов Ко Хонг. Это группа островов из известняка со скрытыми пещерами и лагунами, которая идеально подходит для каякинга и подводного плавания. Возьмите тур на острова Ко Пхи Пхи (Koh Phi Phi) с живописными морскими бухтами, окруженными потрясающими известняковыми скалами, устремленными в небо прямо из океанских глубин, в пещерах гнездятся ласточки, вокруг богатый подводный мир, насыщенный морской жизнью, и многое, многое другое. Посетите острова Ко Джам (Koh Jum) и Ко Сибойя (Koh Siboya) скрытые от глаз человека, наполненные тропической растительностью и уникальной природой. Эти острова дают посетителям возможность расслабиться и прекрасно провести время. Также посетите остров Ланта (Lanta) в южной части провинции, который сейчас активно развивается. Ланта также является домом для морских циган, где вы сможете увидеть их традиции и познакомиться с их укладом жизни. Национальный парк включает в себя много различных островов, окруженных коралловыми рифами, такие как Ко Нгай (Koh Ngai) и Ко Рок (Koh Rok). КУЛЬТУРА

Текс переведен и отредактирован: Шинарита Стоун

Бан Натин (Ban Natin) - это место находится по пути из Ао Нанга (Ao Nang) в Клонг Муанг (Klong Muang), где вы сможете увидеть мирную жизнь местной мусульманской общины. Вы можете приехать туда на несколько дней или просто остановиться и посмотреть на изделия ручной работы. Музей Ват Клонг Том (Wat Klong Thom) главный исторический музей провинции Краби. Доказательством того, что провинция Краби была одним из первых мест на карте современного Тайланда, где возникли человеческие поселения, служит этот музей. В нем выставлены различные артефакты, найденные во время археологических раскопок. Экспозиция музея включает в себя доисторические каменные и бронзовые орудия, образцы древней керамики, монеты, предметы прикладного искусства и старинные кровати, возраст которых превышает 5000 лет. Огненное шоу, это часть пляжной культуры и очень популярно в вечернее время суток на пляжах Ко Ланты (Koh Lanta) и Пхи Пхи (Phi Phi). Невероятная хореография, удивительный рисунок танца и множество завораживающих глаз моментов делают шоу с огнем просто незабываемым. Бан Санг-Ка-Ю (Ban Sang-Ka-U) место проживания “морских циган” на юговостоке острова Ланта Яй (Lanta Yai). Именно там живет старый клан В-Лей (v Ley) пытающийся сохранить исчезающий образ жизни в этой быстро развивающейся части острова. ГОРОД Очаровательный, маленький, тихий город. В Краби много старых зданий, баров, ресторанов и местных экзотических рынков с продуктовыми лавками на старой пристани Чао Фа (Chao Fa), там вы можете отведать блюда местной кухни. Девиз Краби: “Прекрасный город, Прекрасные люди” местные жители Краби гордятся своим городом и своим теплым и щедрым характером. С пирса Чао Фа (Chao Fa) можно отправиться на лодке до главного природного символа города Као Нам Канаб (Kho Nam Kanab) – 100-метровые скалы-близнецы расположены по обе стороны реки Краби и являются своеобразными водными воротами в Краби-таун. Также посетите остров Ко Кланг (Koh Klang) расположенный в устье реки, где вы сможете проникнуться жизнью местных рыболовных общин, и побывать в мангровых зарослях.

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топ

10

Лучших мест

для отдыха

Провинция Краби является раем для тех, кто любит солнце и ищет удовольствие, а также это одно из лучших мест в мире для скалолазания, дайвинга и каякинга. Журнал Краби предлагает вам топ 10 видов отдыха, которые стоит попробовать здесь, в Краби: КАЯКИНГ Это очень популярное занятие в Краби. Мангровые леса, пещеры и, конечно же, пляжи, дают много возможностей для каякинга. Ао Нанг и Рэйлэй пользуются большей популярностью, так как находятся близко и до них удобно добраться. Если же вы хотите больше приключений и хотите познакомиться с красивейшими местами провинции, уголками девственной природы и их обитателями, то отправьтесь в тур в Ао Талэин (Ao Thalane) или в Бор Тор (Bor Thor), которые находятся в Национальном парке Тарн Бок Корани (Tarn Boke Koranee). Пещеры, гроты и лагуны, сделают ваш день незабываемым. ВАТ ТАМ СУА (Wat Tham Suea) Храм «Тигровая Пещера» ВАТ ТАМ СУА (Wat Tham Suea) — одна из интереснейших достопримечательностей Краби. Храм расположен прямо под сводами пещеры. С вершины горы, в которой распалагается пещера с храмом, открывается потрясающая панорама на окрестности. Однако, чтобы попасть туда, вам предстоит преодолеть 1237 ступеней. В этой пещере археологами были найдены многочисленные древние артефакты, ныне хранящиеся в музее. А в пещере можно увидеть отпечаток ноги Будды и его величественную статую. Объедините поездку в Храм с другими достопримечательностями, например посетите еще Са Маракот (Sa Morakot) изумрудный бассейн или местный рынок. ЗАКАТЫ Основной достопримечательностью пляжа Ао Нанг (Ao Nang) и Ноппарат Тара (Noppharat Thara), конечно же, являются закаты . Муссонные дожди приносят тучи, которые зловеще нависают в небе над морем, создавая незабываемые закаты. Самая красота складывается из непостижимого и величественного “рисунка” подсвеченных облаков. Чем более “размазаны” облака по небу и чем более невероятны их формы, тем красивее закат.

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БАРЫ И МОРСКИЕ РЕСТОРАНЫ АО НАНГА И НОППАРАТ ТАРЫ После вечерней прогулки, завершите день бокалом коктейля в одном из баров на пляже или порадуйте себя ужином с морепродуктами. С правой стороны пляжа Ао Нанг находится улочка с ресторанами, где блюда из морепродуктов представлены в большом разнообразии или вы можете попробывать местную рыбную кухню в самом конце пляжа Ноппарат Тара. СКАЛОЛАЗАНИЕ ПЛЯЖ РЭЙЛЭЙ (RAILAY BEACH) Пляжи Рэйлей (Railay), Тонсай (Tonsay) и Прананг (Phranang) находятся на полуострове в Railay Bay совсем рядом с Ао Нангом и по праву считаются одними из самых красивых мест в Таиланде. А первоклассные маршруты для скалолазания на многочисленных скалах делают это место настоящей “Меккой” для скалолазов со всего мира. Практически на всех пляжах острова есть богатый выбор вулканических скал, по которым проложены 700 маршрутов разной степени сложности. И профессионал, и новичок в скалолазании найдут здесь подходящую скалу, магазины альпинистского снаряжения с доступными ценами или пункты проката, а также опытных инструкторов, которые смогут гарантировать безопасность во время занятий. РЫНКИ Как и во многих восточных странах, в Тайланде особое место занимают рынки. На местных рынках можно купить свежие овощи и фрукты, живую рыбу и различные морепродукты, мясо, яйца, одежду и обувь. Любой человек, пришедший сюда, моментально попадает в пестрый круговорот ярких цветов и запахов, доносящихся с прилавков уличных торговцев едой. Обычно, рынки работают со второй половины дня, когда солнце уже не сильно печет, примерно с 3-х часов дня, и до часов 7 вечера. Посетите рынок в районе Клонг Хенг на Ао Нанге, который работает по четвергам и субботам.

радует порхающими разноцветными бабочками и юркими ящерками. И вот за деревьями появляется Изумрудное озеро с целебной водой, насыщенной минералами и природными солями. Чуть дальше есть Голубое озеро, поражающее цветом своей воды, им можно только любоваться и наблюдать, как из-под земли бьют горячие источники. АРХИПЕЛАГ КО ХОНГ (KOH HONG) Ни одно посещение Краби или Ао Нанга не будет полным, без поездки на острова Ко Хонг (Koh Hong) - это потрясающая группа островов расположенных у побережья Краби (Хонг в переводе с тайского - “комната”) Пляжи Ко Хонг никогда не перестанут удивлять кристально чистой водой, большим количеством разнообразных рыб у берега, и белоснежным песком на пляже. В скалах можно обнаружить узкий проход в закрытую бухту, внутри которой, вы сможете увидеть мангровые деревья, уходящие своими корнями в воду.

МЕСТНАЯ НОЧНАЯ ЖИЗНЬ На Ао Нанге имеется большое количество баров, ресторанов и ночных клубов, рассчитанных на все вкусы. Однако Ао Нанг хорош и своей демократичностью: местные цены доступны практически всем, причем качество блюд, напитков и обслуживания от этого не страдает. Стильный бар «Last Fisherman» настоящий эталон пляжных баров. Бамбуковый навес, столики на песке, звезды, отличная музыка – что еще нужно для счастья? Барный комплекс Central Point распалагает несколькими залами, в которых звучит живая музыка и всемирно известные хиты прошлых лет. На Ао Нанге очень много пивных баров и ирландских пабов, где подается недорогое, но хорошее пиво и всевозможные закуски к нему. Стоит отметить, что, несмотря на то, что нравы в Ао Нанге более сдержанные, чем в Паттайе или Бангкоке, все же любители “клубнички” смогут побаловать себя, познакомившись с доступными девушками. Они работают в местных гоугоу барах, расположенных на улице Сой Салай (Soi Salai). Пляж Ноппарат Тара, порадует вас колоритнейшим баром «Хиппи» и ярким пляжным баром Luna, в котором имеется великолепный танцпол. ЛОДОЧНЫЕ ТУРЫ В МАНГРОВЫЕ ЗАРОСЛИ Это интересное путешествие для любителей экотуризма. Манговые заросли, которые окаймляют побережье различных островов, создают каналы с лабиринтами. Во время прогулки на лодке, можно увидеть и посетить множество интересных мест: удивительный лес мангровых зарослей, пальм и лиан; скалистые острова с гротами и пещерами; большие и маленькие каньоны, где обитают красивые тропические птицы. Отправиться в это незабываемое путешествие можно со старого причала Чаофа (Chaofa).

СА МАРАКОТ (SA MARAKOT) Изумрудное озеро Са Моракот по праву считается изюминкой Краби. Вода здесь прозрачна в любое время года и меняется в зависимости от времени суток и угла падения солнечных лучей. Дорога к Изумрудному озеру великолепна: тропинка ведет среди переплетающихся лиан, плутает в ровных зарослях бамбука, теряется между деревьями, Текс переведен и отредактирован: Шинарита Стоун

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Worth a Thousand Words...

English mistakes should be an Olympic sport here in Thailand, as the country excels in the weird, wonderful and downright funny translation category.

If you have been here for more than a couple of days then the chances are good that you have come across some yourself. A lot of the time, they are food items seen in menus that almost beggar belief.

As we’ve just had lunch, we thought that we’d spread the love and hopefully give you a giggle with a few choice selections we’ve come across.

Bon Appetit!

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You Know

Thailand too Long When...

You’ve Been in

Part 2

• You no longer enjoy Songkran. Instead, you stay home with a stack of DVDs • You think fairy lights wrapped around a T.V. looks beautiful • The footprints on the toilet seat are your own.

• Your sure there’s room for one more on the bike that already holds 5 people and a pig • You now speak to friends back home in broken English • You wear a suit to work then change into flip-flops upon arrival • You put a plastic bag on your head when it starts raining • You think the first thing you are supposed to do after being in a car accident is to run away.

• You don’t know or care what day of the week it is.

• Curry is perfectly acceptable breakfast food as long as it has an egg on top.

• You keep a roll of toilet paper on your dinner table, but not in the bathroom.

• You think 15kbs of upload speed is quite fast.

• You pick at your face in the mirror when stopped at traffic lights • You tell someone the time is about 11 o’clock when in fact it’s a quarter to 12.

• You use a whistle when parking your car.

• You are always thinking it must be time for the next meal.

• You begin to enjoy Thai TV programs.

• You can sleep standing up on the bus.

• You can keep your bus fare in your ear.

• If you meet someone called Steve you call him “Sateve”.

• You never seem to get round to cutting your little finger nail • You no longer go into a bar unless the price of a beer is less than 59baht • You find that everything you own is counterfeit.

• You frankly never really have a clue what’s really going on

97

Krabi Magazine Around the World

Another month and another copy of this stupendulous publication sneaks out of the kingdom in the perspiration-soaked undergarments of another Krabi-ian(?). This time all the way to Oman, courtesy of the one and only Umberto Barbieri.

He looks rather pleased with himself, does Umberto, and well he should. You see, you too have the chance to get your grinning mug within the pages of the best magazine in the known universe and beyond, simply by nicking one and taking a photo of yourself with it somewhere that’s not here. Simples.

WE want to see the front cover clearly please, and something interesting and foreign-like in the backfround.

Not your grandmother’s basement.

(I’m talking to you, Steve from Manchester…). Also send us your full name, nationality, what you liked about your time in Krabi and any more nice things about us.

crossword

Email them to moi at editor@krabimagazine.com and wait with baited breath for a month.

DOWN 2.

Opera solo 3.

Struggle for breath 4.

Books of maps 5. Behold 6.

Gasoline classification 7.

Tidy up 8.

Chunk of eternity 9.

Military rank 10. Faithful 11.

Sweet potatoes 17.

Children’s game 19.

Actor ____ Hanks 22. Adolescents 23.

Make amends 24.

Common verb 25. Acquire 26.

Make again 28. Goodness!

29. Strange 32. Soldier 35.

Additional ones 36.

Styling foam 37. Wrath 39.

Highway curve 40.

Military supplies 41.

Show the way 44. Leer 45. Oceans 46. Miscalculates 48. Recline 49.

Recipe unit (abbr.)

ACROSS 6 Uno 9 Pig’s pad 12 Box 13 Business VIP 14 Pitching stat 15 Church walkway 16 Burst of bad temper 18 California wine valley

19 Make lace 20 Epochs 21 Caveman’s era (2 wds.)

24 Concurrence 27 Time past 30 ____ Witherspoon of “Sweet

Home Alabama” 31 Had 33 And so forth (abbr.)

34 Proposed as a candidate 38 Renovator

40 Pub drinks 42 Shade 43 Stood up 47 Childhood disease 49 Golfer ____ Woods 50 Bathroom rug 51 Tax org.

52 ____ eclipse 53 Lyric verse 54 Compass dir.

55 Printing machine

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