Krabi magazine, October 2011

KLONG THOM HOT SPRINGS • NEWS • TRAVEL • CULTURE • LEISURE • NATURE • REAL ESTATE •

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OCTOBER 2011– ISSUE 69 EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Thomas Gennaro krabimagazine@gmail.com 089 9085990 ART GROUP Creative Director: Nattapat Sunthonphuriwat [Ton®] tonidesign@gmail.com - 089 7727858 Graphic Designers: Dayton Designs® Andy Dayton - Shuric Galkin www.dayton-designs.com Bandit Kanjanavarodom [Lim] CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Thomas Gennaro – Nattapat Sunthonphuriwat Stefano Gonella – Ton Company - Thom Henley 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 MARKETING Thomas Gennaro - 089 9085990 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 - Please send submissions to krabimagazine@gmail.com

Welcome to Krabi Krabi Province is considered to be one of the most beautiful regions in a beautiful country. Krabi has it all, from the limestone karsts that characterize the region to world-class beaches, islands, temples, markets, nightlife and shopping, the list is seemingly endless. Gastronomes will find Krabi a sanctuary of fine dining and lovers of the great outdoors will find plenty to keep them occupied - waterfalls, hot springs, national parks, elephant treks are all on offer and Krabi is also one of the world’s premier destinations for rock climbing and scuba diving. The coral reefs of the Andaman Sea are among the world’s best and the Railay Peninsula attracts climbers from all over the world.

Combining an experienced editorial team, a new innovative graphic design team, and contributions from local and passing-by writers, Krabi Magazine has established itself as a must-read for anybody in Krabi. In this month stories include a trip to Klong Thom Hot Springs, a visit to the nearby museum, and a whole range of interesting articles to make your stay in Krabi pleasant and worry-free. Ever-popular Krabi Magazine is being successfully distributed all over Thailand in most Asia Books/Bookazine stores, including at the main Thai airports. This helps tourists plan their trip to this province in advance, it will make Krabi an interesting option for potential visitors to the area, and it will give our sponsors a much wider exposure.

After 6 years of production, Krabi Magazine this month introduces a new fresh graphic cut; just a sample of the future: November issue will be totally redesigned, eye catching and full of surprises! Watch out for it! Krabi Magazine will be massively available to visitors to Krabi and Islands during high season, helping you with your search for the best eats, nightlife, activities, boats and buses timetables, doctors and banks, events; an endless array of information to make your stay reasonably organized from Kitdee Media & Design. Find it in your hotel lounge, in restaurants and pubs, at airports and boat piers or in your favourite local travel agency. Look out for our logos, and BEWARE OF IMITATIONS!

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.

We hope you find Krabi Magazine inspirational and helpful whether you come to Krabi to eat, drink and relax on the beach or participate in any of the numerous activities on offer here in Thailand. And if you are not in Krabi yet, what are you waiting for? Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/krabimagazine or read us online at www.issuu.com and search for Krabi Magazine - Enjoy your reading, and above all enjoy your holiday in Krabi!

Thomas Gennaro Executive Editor

Cover picture courtesy of: : Krabi Magazine

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October 2011, issue 69

A Window on Krabi

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

Klong Thom Hot Springs

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An amazing Sunday spent at Klong Thom Hot Springs turns out to be an enthralling nature trip with amazing memories. Read on…

PLUS: Factfile: Thung Tiao Forest - Khao Nor Chuchi Forest - Hot Springs

Wat Klong Thom Museum

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Wat Klong Thom Museum features various kinds of artifacts discovered during excavations within an area called “Khuan Lukbat” (bead mound) behind Wat Klong Thom.

Unique Sculptures in Krabi Town

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Provincial and sleepy Krabi Town has some of the most unique scupltures I have ever seen, and it is indeed worth a visit if you are waiting for your ferry to the islands.

Dangerous Animals

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The sun, coral seas, welcoming people, spectacular landscapes and fantastic food more than compensate for the small risk of encountering something nasty in Krabi…

Country Markets

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Country Markets should be one of the highlights of your holiday.

Reiki

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Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing.

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OPEN ALL YEAR 6

Frangipanis

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One of the most popular flowers all over Thailand, indeed the whole of South East Asia, is the Frangipani.

Mindfulness Meditation

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A powerful tool to increase your level of concentration. Learning to meditate can truly change a person’s life.

Koh Lanta Paradise Island

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Get the most out of Koh Lanta. Highlights, maps, reviews and articles: Koh Lanta Highlights: Lanta Features Health & Living: Mindfulness Meditation At a Glance: Riding a Bike

Krabi Property Guide

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Purchasing and making real estate investments made simple with Krabi Magazine: Real Estate News: Extra Demand for Krabi Property Property Report: 2011 Krabi Tourism Boom Traditional Architecture: Thai Pavilion and Tropical Garden Land Matters: The Thai Rai Living: Interior Design

Directory

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Media Kit and Businesses listed in the Krabi Magazine

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AO NANG BRAND NEW

CENTERPO NT Kr Bar & Pub

Oldest established in Ao Nang Newly refurbished bar with original design and features Real fishpond, waterfall and lots of traditional woodwork. Friendly staff and good value drinks.

The Airport

Getting into the mile-high club has never been so easy! Real scale 1:10 Boeing 767 hanging from the ceiling. Staff dressed up as pilots and air stewardesses.

Former Apollo Bar

The Cave

A full bar that boasts a cavernous interior.

Beers, wine and cocktails - exceptionally friendly staff.

MAP CENTER POINT Top Charoen Optic Soi Seafood

Burger King

Aonang Beach

The Airport The Cave KR pub

the beaches

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.

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Photo by Helicam

Picture by: Herlicam.com

NATURAL HOTSPOTS

Limestone mountains or karsts characterize most of the inland turquoise water with an average temperature of 30-40C, fed by Krabi area, the most spectacular being the massifs of Sai Tai. a hot spring in the middle of the jungle.

Susaan Hoi is a 40 million year-old seashell cemetery; once a Hot Springs of Klong Thom, natural Jacuzzis in which to lift away large swamp where freshwater crustaceans proliferated, today tensions and relieve body and mind with the mineral enriched home to 40 centimeter thick, shell encrusted limestone slabs, a waters falling into rocky ponds. 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 THE ISLANDS Hop on or hire a longtail, the local wooden boats with their elements and are hard to identify. picturesque prows. Sail away to Koh Poda, Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, surrounded by turquoise waters, or to Koh at 20km from Krabi Town, comprises Kai, shaped as a chicken and therefore Koh Phi Phi islands, full of waterfalls, streams, lush forests and caves.

It is home to all kind of flora and wildlife marvelous bays, limestone called the Chicken Island, from where a walk on a sandy pathway connects it to and to the highest mountain in the region Koh Tub. Make a longtail boat or speedboat cliffs, waters rich in marine from which it takes the name. One of the trip to the Koh Hong archipelago, a group features of the park is Huay Toh Waterfall life, caves where swallow of limestone islands with hidden caves and where water runs down onto several huge lagoons perfect for kayaking or snorkeling. nests are harvested, and pools.

Join an organized tour to amazing Tarnbok Khoranee National Park, in the much more.

Visit Koh Jum and Koh Siboya, small, north of the region, consists of limestone unspoiled tropical hide-away that have mountains, verdant tropical forest, caves a unique atmosphere.

These islands give and beautiful islands. It is well known for visitors the time to relax and re-charge their batteries.

Or venture its different species of trees growing around a large natural out on Koh Lanta, the developing island at the southern end of crystal clear pool, and for the hundreds of birds’ species.

Phi Hua Toh Cave, in the nearby Bor Thor area, surrounded by the province home to sea gypsies communities, where you will mangrove swamps and reachable by boat or kayak, is where to meet nature and tradition. A National Park area that comprises many different islands surrounded by coral reefs, such as Koh see pre-historic rock paintings depicting animals and humans.

Sa Morakot, the Emerald Pool, is a natural wonder: a pond of Ngai and remote Koh Rok.

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“lovely town, lovely people”

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 Chao Ley try to preserve a disappearing way of life in this fast-developing island.

THE TOWN

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.

THE TEMPLE

Located just 9 km from Krabi Town the Wat Tham Seua, or Tiger Cave Monastery, is one of south Thailand’s most famous and interesting forest temples, as the monks live, meditate and worship within a maze of natural caves in an overgrown jungle valley. Many Thai women live out their old-age there as nuns.

Explore the inner cave used by monks for meditation. Climb the 1,237 steps up a limestone tower to see the statue of the Buddha and the “footprint of the Buddha” embedded in the rock, and to enjoy one of the best viewpoints of the area. Take the circular walk through Krabi’s rarest of all features, a pocket of primary lowland forest, a circular rocky basin enclosed by high cliffs. Here, along a pathway used by monks to meditate and amongst a number of magnificent trees you can be amazed in front of the largest flared root base of any tree remaining in Thailand.

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: “lovely 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

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Nature Trails Story by : Thomas Gennaro Photos by : Nattaphat Sunthornphuriwat

Klong Thom Hot Springs This story is about a beautiful nature trip. Read on and prepare to be enthralled…

Last Sunday I gathered a few nature reserve is home to one of the most friends and headed to Klong popular natural features in the region, the Thom hot springs for the day. The Namtok Rhon (hot waterfalls and spring). intrepid travelers met in Ao Nang bakery This is also the only habitat in the world, for a earthy breakfast and left at 9:00am. where you can find the extremely rare, After a quick and formerly thought to be extinct, Gurney’s Pitta discussion about the itinerary we During old times, Klong bird. were on our way.

Thom was a trading post Back to our journey, I The area we were going to explore drove along the river along the ancient was the Khao Nor road, where, thanks to marine silk route.

Chuchi Wildlife an exceptionally low Sanctuary, also tide, we were able to see called Khao Phrathe tangle of mangrove Bang Khram, a place of extraordinary roots standing out of the water. We beauty situated in Klong Thom, a scooted past Krabi International Airport southern district of Krabi Province. This and entered Nuaklong District. It was

a glorious day with the sun striking the top of Wat Tham Seua – the tiger temple - making it shine like a beacon.

This was rural Thailand and even only a few kilometers from town the landscape changed. We saw swamps and endless fields with buffalo grazing at a leisurely pace, forests of bamboo with huge trunks, date palm plantations, mosques, messy gasoline stations, modern villas and shanty shacks. Over the small busy broadways that follow one another without a break, against a backdrop of lush green hills, the impenetrable jungle is master. We were traveling on Highway number 4, the backbone of the south that runs all the way to Malaysia. It was incredible to think that we could leave this traffic clogged and smoggy road by taking one of the small side roads. These would quickly take us on a maze of tracks through farms and villages, where hard working farmers spend their busy days unaware of the daily routines of the townsfolk.

Millions of ancient beads and artifacts have been found in this district and are on display in the museum of Wat Klong Thom. Klong Thom is less than 50 kilometers south of Krabi town and the main intersection, home to a daily market that was buzzing with activities.

There, blue signs prompted us to turn left onto Route 4038. We followed this

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The water is between 38C and 40C and contains a high level of minerals making it a perfect hydrotherapy bath.

road for a few more kilometers until we reached two signs that said Hot Springs and Crystal Pool, which took us to Route 4021. The last part of the road was a dirt track, but easily negotiable by any car.

Most tourist attractions in Krabi are now easily accessible via tarmac road.

We arrived at the parking lot, where snack and drink facilities are located, just to be welcomed by the green season in its own language: RAIN. Complaining is hardly the way to make things easier, so we stopped moaning, got the bags and raincoats, paid the entrance fee

and followed the first nature trail. The gentle rain kissed my face and trickled down, then grew shy before it eventually stopped. This is a peculiarity of the green season in Krabi: there is rain, yes, but usually in form of brief spells, fast greetings. After only a few meters we saw our first wildlife: a baby monitor lizard, previously camouflaged by the leafy floor, jumped in the water as soon as it spotted us. A couple of minutes later, we spotted a shiny green white-lipped pit viper moving in a bamboo bush.

It looked harmless so we took time to observe its slow motion as, thankfully, it

slithered away from us. Generally, if you are in the jungle, observe only and do not touch unless you are with someone who has a good knowledge of this kind of environment, as even plants can set you scratching if you don’t know what they are.

We reached the site where steaming water generating from the thermal springs converges on a slope to form lovely cascades flanked by big bamboo bushes and other plants. The pools are basins of old smooth rock hollowed-out by water from a hot waterfall, so that the

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basins upriver contain the hottest water decreasing in temperature as the water descends towards the river, eventually emptying into the cold stream below.

The water is between 38C and 40C and contains a high level of minerals making it a perfect hydrotherapy bath.

I submerged myself, and time slowly disappeared. Locals and foreigners were coming and going at their own pace while I sank into warm water, then into the cold river.

It was so relaxing to plunge into the cold stream, showering in the hot water

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from the springs above, or just lying in one of the pools, back against smoothly rounded rocks, having a hot bath that relieved stress and tension and soothed aching muscles. It was all within me: steam, silence, birds, leaping hot water drops, forest melodies, deep breathing in... breathing out... smiles from exiting kids playing with the cold river water, tiny warm waterfalls massaging my back, couples hugging inside the friendly water, a soft wind dancing with tree leaves, another deep breathing in... The pool area was shady and spending a long time in this Jungle Jacuzzi was tempting.

We were advised not to exceed slots of 30 minutes in the warm water. We learned that this water could even be drunk in small amounts, its minerals stimulating your metabolism. So healthy!

After a few hours of intermittent baths, we reluctantly left the hot springs for our journey back to town. Once again I was reminded that Krabi is an amazingly diverse region with sun, sea and sand, as well as the wildest nature and biodiversity only a few kilometers away. Why don’t you amaze your friends at home with tales of a jungle adventure?

Factfile Thung Tiao Forest Located in the area of Khao Pra-Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary next to Bang Tiao Village, 18 km from Klong Thom County. This lowland forest is endowed with many interesting things to attract nature lovers, such as natural ponds, rare species of flowers and birds. There is also a 2.7-kilometre nature trail for studying the environment.

Interested persons can obtain information from the Wildlife Sanctuary Office at Bang Tiao Village.

Khao Nor Chuchi Forest This is a luxuriant lowland rainforest that is an important part of Khao Pra-Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary. It is an ideal place for bird watching where more rare species of birds are found more than any other places in the South.

Visitors can also walk through the trails to admire the unspoiled dense forest and swim in the clear pools.

Hot Springs Natural hot springs are believed to have certain healing powers. The heat and minerals produced by a hot spring are thought to cure some illnesses, release mental stress, alleviate certain skin problems, relieve backache and muscle soreness, and promote physical well-being.

Natural hot springs have been discovered in several areas in Thailand. Some of them have been developed into tourist attractions.

Klong Thom Hot Springs The hot springs are located in the forest in Klong Thom Nua Sub-county, about 12 km. from Klong Thom. The springs are located in a shady forest area flanked by a scenic range of over 500 metres high mountain. Hot springs and cool streams converge on a slope to form lovely cascades of warm water with a temperature of 4050 degrees Celsius. The most suggestive times to visit is from 7.00 am to 8.00 am and from 4.00 pm to 5.00 pm.

How to get there To reach the waterfall visitors should travel 45 kilometers from Krabi town to Klong Thom, then take Sukhaphiban 2 Road for another 12 kilometers. The admission fee is 20 baht for Thais and 90 baht for foreigners.

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Cultural Story by : Thomas Gennaro Photos by : Nattaphat Sunthornphuriwat

Situated within the precincts of Wat Klong Thom between km.69-70 on Phetchakasem Highway direction Trang, one km from the District Office, the museum features various kinds of artifacts discovered during excavations within an area called “Khuan Lukbat” (bead mound) behind Wat Klong Thom. The discoveries include stone tools, stone and earthen ornaments in the shapes of animals and particularly beads from some 5,000 years ago.

The towns of Krabi, Ao Nang and the surrounding beaches and islands will provide a full itinerary of activities whilst on holiday in Thailand as well as some excellent opportunities for relaxing and soaking up the sun. But for anyone who wants to discover a little more, we recommend a visit to Wat Klong Thom museum, one of the only museums of its kind in the area.

Here it’s possible to learn about an area of Krabi history often overlooked and unknown to most people.

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In Klong Thom lived an ancient community during the late pre-historic to early historic periods, hence it is an important archeological site. Unearthed artifacts include stone tools, bronze implements, metal coins, pottery shards, ceramic and stone decorative art and colored beads believed to be 5,000 years old. It’s believed the artifacts are from a time when a semi-mythical local town called Kuan Lukbat, from around the 5th century onwards, acted as a gateway port for emissaries crossing the southern Thai peninsula. Inscriptions and stamps found on ornaments have been dated to around 5th-7th century AD and objects from overseas have also been found, indicating that the town was on an important trade route between India and Southeast Asia and that it was probably one of the biggest

industrial bead sites in Thailand. Also, Klong Thom was thriving as an ancient trading port with seafarers doing their trade from India to China. The ancient Klong Thom community is believed to have been a seaport and a gateway that linked the trans-peninsular trade route from west to east via the Sin Pun Canal to the Tapi River to Ban Don Bay in the Gulf of Thailand, avoiding the Straits of Melaka during the monsoon season and making their way cross the Isthmus of Kra from Klong Thom to the old town of Nakhon Sri Thammarat and seaward to ancient China.

Relatively small and obscured, Wat Klong Thom Museum, established by Phra Kru Arthorn Sungworakit, the abbot of Klong Thom Monastery, exhibits an impressive and varied collection artifacts discovered during excavations area of Khuan Lukbat, a bead mound behind Wat Klong Thom, the temple in the grounds of which the museum is situated. Since 1966, artifacts and antiques have been looted or smuggled from the Khuan Luk Pat site. Venerable Arthorn Sungworakit was afraid that the national treasures would be lost forever, and started collecting

the objects ever since and had them displayed in the temple museum. He has since been active in promoting research on the site. Some of the artefacts include pottery shards, stone tools, stone and ceramic ornaments in animal shapes, metal coin, ‘ face beads ‘ and religious coloured beads.

In 1992, HRH Princess Sirindhorn presided over the official opening ceremony of the museum. The museum is a two-storey building; the first floor displays antiques on iron shelves, mostly pieces of glass and pottery, stone mortars and pestles, sharpening stones and ancient tools and utensils. The second floor is divided into two sides: the right side displays bangles, rings and stone axes of different sizes and shapes in glass cabinets, the left side is more interesting and systematic. The objects on exhibition include humanfaced beads presumed to be the Sun God, multi-color glass and melted glass.

It is believed that the area was a glass and bead production site. The beads were inscribed with Pallava script, aged between the 6th and 8th centuries. Many of these beads appear to have been made in the area, while some others are most

probably imports. The museum housed other artifacts – such as Greek & Roman coins, Indian and Chinese crafts, and more. Recently, the Ministry of Culture pledged its support to the renovation of Krabi’s Wat Khlong Thom Museum. There were talks in 2009 that the province may provide a 10 million baht budget for the renovation of the museum. The then Culture Minister added he would entrust experts from the Fine Arts Department to oversee the museum development, seeking both academics and culture experts help to register and declare the place as historical sites.

The Monks at the temple act as curators, showing visitors the museum and the actual site where the beads were unearthed. In addition to the exhibition, the museum organizes outdoor exhibitions and other activities for students to raise their awareness about preserving antiques in the community.

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Oddity Story by : Thomas Gennaro Photos by : Nattaphat Sunthornphuriwat

Provincial and sleepy Krabi Town has some of the most unique scupltures I have ever seen, and it is indeed worth a visit if you are waiting for your ferry to the islands.

Sea Crab (Mangrove Crab) officials confirmed its presence indicates The area in which these crabs are located that mangrove areas in the Andaman is on Uttarakit Road alond the Krabi River coastal provinces are still in fertile (the shortest river in Thailand), as it runs condition. A second giant crab of ‘only’ past the city; a pleasant spot in the cool 1.6kg was brought to the center on that evening, where they also run a small same year by a villager from Koh Lanta. evening market. Don’t get confused: According to the record, this crab was there is no alliterative reason why Krabi quite fierce and wild. town has a giant crab on its Krabi river shoreline. The crab has no plaque and White-bellied sea eagle (Nok Awk) looks more like a decorative item than a The White-bellied Sea Eagle is a large sculpture; yet, it is a symbol that reflects diurnal bird of prey resident of India the sea husbandry history of the town through southeast Asia to Australia; it and province. The crab also signifies the lives on coasts and major waterways, fertility of the mangrove forest, which breeds and hunts near water, and eat plays a key role in maintaining the fish and a wide variety of animals. It has ecological balance recently declined in of the entire area. parts of Southeast Not much more I can Most of the monuments Asia and especially in say about this giant Thailand. The Whitein Thailand are built to crab, on a small dais, bellied Sea Eagle honor former monarchs sculpture is not too surrounded by three smaller crabs. All of far from the giant or personalities around them are black and the country. In Krabi, they crab, marks Krabi’s look fierce.

Km Zero (the point Upon a better Internet rather have crabs, elephants, from where all the research, I find a piece provinces distance primitive men and of news dated 2009 measurements are sea eagles… that states that a large made), and it does 2.4kg green female have a plaque which crab was caught by a local fisherman reflects the goals of the town. Apparently near a mangrove forest in Krabi. Its size the sculpture symbolizes comprehensive and look invariably attracted interest knowledge, self-sufficiency, responsibility from villagers and tourists. The rare and consideration for others. As at many giant crab, estimated to be about 5 years coastal locations in southern Thailand, old, eventually made its way to a local White-bellied Sea Eagles are commonly market stall to be sold. There, officials seen and are spectacular sights. In town, from the Coastal Fisheries Research and a pair of White-bellied Sea Eagles is often Development purchased it for breeding, spotted near iconic landmark of Krabi as they believe releasing giant crabs back Khao Khanap Nam mounts, nesting on to nature can bring to a more fertile and their peaks. healthy local ecosystem. Indeed, fisheries

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Elephants (Chang) Elephants are of immense importance in Thailand, and have been revered in proverbs and sayings; they were once featured on the country’s national flag, royal emblems and royal decorations.

The elephant holds pride of place as the national symbol of the Kingdom of Thailand, and still play an important role in Thai culture and the Thai way of life.

They are a traditional symbol of royal power, an essential feature of Buddhist art and architecture, and a spiritual mentor for people of all walks of life.

One little known aspect of Krabi’s history is the huge number of wild elephants that used to roam its vast lowland forests, particularly around Phanom Bencha mountain. Phra Sawet Adulyadej Phahon is the name of the first Royal White Elephant; born in a jungle in the Krabi Province, it was caught in 1965 in Amphur Lamtap of Klong Thom district in the far south of the province.

Following tradition, Krabi province presented His Majesty King Bhumibol

Adulyadej with the ultimate gift nearly half a century ago. The king has owned a total of twenty one royal elephants during his reign. Phra Sawet Adulyadej Phahon was the first white elephant raised to royal rank during His Majesty’s reign. There are several monuments in town to the important role these beasts played in Krabi’s development: Maharat main road has graceful lampposts along it boulevard, each post depicting an elephant rising to its hind feet, as well as a main post topped by the sculpture of an elephant holding a sword in his trunk; similar poles have been erected along the road to Wat Tham Sua.

Primitive Man (Manut Boran) Traffic lights have never been fun, and they rarely qualify as points of interest.

Krabi Town saw that as an opportunity to take pride in its history, and introduced a kitschy set of traffic lights junction along the Maharaj Road at the corner of Soi 10, where a Neanderthal prehistoric man sit on top of the columns and hold the stopand-go signals like heavy shopping bags.

As a background, two pieces of wellpreserved fossilized jawbone excavated in an abandoned lignite mine in the Nuea Klong district of Krabi in 1995 led to the exciting discovery of a Manut Boran, or Ancient Man, a new type of primate named Siamopithecus Eocaenus, and

later presented by Nature magazine as “Siam Ape, a new primate species”.

This is thought to be around 35 million years old, 3 million years older than any similar primate found in Africa, adding heft to the controversial theory that man originated in Asia. If you want to go deeper into the subject, pay a visit to a small museum entirely devoted to Manut Boran, and located near the EGAT lignite mine, opposite the Pakasai Golf Club, in the Nuea Klong Town District, where original fossils and the models of the primates are exposed.

So, on your next detour to Krabi Town, do look out for these amazing sculptures.

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Geographica

Let’s face it, there is always a downside and it’s always a good idea to be prepared for the bad things that might happen health and safety-wise.

The creatures described below are not being published to discourage you from visiting one of the world’s great holiday destinations.

The sun, coral seas, welcoming people, spectacular landscapes and fantastic food more than compensate for the small risk of encountering something nasty.

Snakes In Thailand, these are always scary and often dangerous. If there is grass or undergrowth, there is a chance there are snakes, even in city parks or hotel gardens. The good news is most will run (or slither) away if they see you coming. The bad news comes if you stand on one. Beating the grass with a stick might look silly, but if you have to

20

cross open country it’s not a bad idea for your personal safety. Spitting Cobras are capable of spraying venom into a persons’ eyes from three metres, so if you see a snake, give it a wide berth. Trying to kill a snake is an especially dangerous activity. The genuinely dangerous varieties - especially cobras and pit vipers - will not try to escape: they will attack. If the worst comes to the worst and you are bitten, don’t worry about identifying the snake, go straight to a hospital. Thailand has an excellent health system that is well used to snake bites. If you receive care within an hour or two you should be fine. Roughly 7000 snakebites occur every year but there are only thirty or

so deaths. In Thailand, travel insurance is recommended since treatment can be costly - around 200 dollars a night, depending on location.

First Aid for Venomous Snake Bites First aid for snakebites involves washing the wound with soap and water, immobilizing the bitten area and keeping the wound lower than the heart. If a hospital is more than half an hour away a bandage can be used a few inches above the wound to reduce the spread of venom. The bandage should be loose enough to work a finger beneath or restriction of blood flow can cause injury.

Giant Centipedes Giant centipedes are found all over Thailand, in urban areas as well as forests and can grow to the size of a man’s forearm. Like a lot of insects in the tropics, if it rains heavily, giant centipedes like to come indoors to avoid drowning. A shoe or bag can provide a handy place for the creatures to hide and if they are surprised and can’t escape they will bite.

Their bite does not kill but for three or four days the victim will be in serious pain - even a shot of morphine from the local hospital will only take the edge off. The bite marks are similar to those of a small snake and centipede bites can be mistaken for snakebites in the dark. The victim requires antitetanus, painkillers and rest. In the case of allergic reaction, breathing support may be necessary. They are plenty big enough to notice in the day but for your own safety never walk around without shoes in the dark.

Local Life Text by : Thom Henley Photos by : Nattaphat Sunthornphuriwat

One of the highlights of the trip...

Almost anywhere along the back roads of Krabi province one is likely to see a lively market under way. Each village sets aside its own special day of the week for this regular event, so in the course of passing a halfdozen settlements, you will surely come across a market. Country markets, like Krabi Town’s morning market, are at their best in the earliest hours of the day when they literally throb with life. Many stalls will stay open until late morning, but

22

the whole market goes into dull, sleepy doldrums as the temperature rises. It’s always best to be there early.

As much a social event as a shopping spree, this the time for neighbors to barter and trade goods, compare produce and livestock, catch up on gossip, exchange political views, and invite one another to upcoming weddings, funerals, or other important community events. A few foreigners wandering into this beehive

of activity are not seen as an intrusion so much as an opportunity for something more to talk about. Very likely, you will be the first farang (foreigner, nde) that the locals have ever met, and once the initial surprise and shyness wears off, they’ll have you tasting everything and posing for photos. Try it. The few tourists who are ever bold enough to make an impromptu stop at local market en route to their destination for the day describe it as the highlight of the trip.

Wellness

Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. The word Reiki, pronounced “RAY-kee”, is formed of two Japanese characters. REI means spirit, essence, or soul, and on a deeper level, Divine Intelligence. KI means vital life force energy or breath.

So the word formed by joining these two kanji embodies the concept of a universal life force energy directed by Divine Intelligence. This is an energy that can nurture and heal body, mind, heart, and spirit. We are all born with Reiki. All living beings have it and the Universe is filled with it. It is the force that helps us heal when we are injured or sick, because its function is to return living beings to health and wholeness. So it will direct and empower the healing of injuries.

Because it works on mental, emotional, and spiritual levels as well, it will also help an individual to healthier states of mind and heart; it even helps one reach out to connect with the greater Wholeness of life itself.

MARINA

Mikao Usui originated Reiki in 1922 after a twenty-one day retreat involving meditation, fasting and prayer. Usui said that by mystical revelation he had gained the knowledge and spiritual power to apply and attune others to what is called Reiki. This marvelous medicine for all sickness involves simple concepts like Do

not be angry, Do not worry, Be grateful, Work with integrity and Be kind to others.

Reiki is administered by lying on hands.

The treatments feel like a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and around you. Reiki treats the whole of your self, including body, emotions, mind and spirit.

• therapeutic exercises to provide relief to severeback pain • global postural re-education • stretching and strengthening paraspinal and abdominal muscles • correction of posture MARINA

Yoga & Reiki

NA THAI ROAD

YOGA

SOI AO NANG 1 500 METERS

FOLLOW THE ROAD OUT OF AO NANG FOR 4 KM AND TURN RIGHT INTO SOI AO NANG 1, AT THE NA TAI INTERSECTION TO KRABI

Mikao Usui originated Reiki in 1922

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Email : yoga.krabi@gmail.com • www.marinayoga.com

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Flora of Krabi Story & photos by : Paul Stretton

Something that you just can’t fail to notice during your time in the Krabi province will be the sheer abundance of beautiful flowers and exotic looking fruits. One of the most popular flowers all over Thailand, indeed the whole of South East Asia, is the Frangipani - also known as the Plumeria flower in other parts of the world.

The name frangipani has disputed origins. Some claim that it comes from the Italian nobleman, Marquis Frangipani, who created a perfume used to scent gloves in the 16th century. When the frangipani flower was discovered, its natural perfume reminded people of the scented gloves, and so the flower was called frangipani. Another version has it that the name, frangipani, is from the French frangipanier which is a type of coagulated milk that the Plumeria milk resembles. There is a theory that Catholic missionary priests spread frangipanis

around the world as they travelled. This Apart from its sweet, heady aroma, the may explain why the frangipani is so frangipani has been used for many years in traditional medicine. popular and common Its bark, roots and sap, in the Philippines and Thailand (where it is Frangipani is one of for example, can be used to treat everything from called Leelavaddee) the most popular tremors and anxiety to skin but very rare in China inflammation, indigestion, and Vietnam. Thailand flowers all over high blood pressure, fever, and the Philippines Thailand welcomed the Christian dysentery and indigestion.

It’s not surprising that the missionaries while, in flower and indeed, the China and Vietnam; they were persecuted until around the 1850s. whole tree, are treated with respect and reverence in most of Asia. Due to the facts that they are able to produce leaves and flowers after being uprooted, and that they only burn in temperatures over 500 degrees, they are seen as symbols of love and immortality in some cultures.

In India, for example, it is often planted near temples and graveyards, where the fresh flowers fall daily upon the tombs.

The frangipani is regarded as a sacred tree in Laos and every Buddhist temple in that country has them planted in their courtyards. Even in China, the flower is considered extremely rare and even more precious than orchids. So, when a person gives frangipani flowers to a sweetheart, it is the closest thing to saying ‘I love you’ in a culture where expression of personal feelings is frowned upon.

Frangipani trees were once considered taboo in Thai homes because of superstitious associations with the plant’s Thai name, lantom, which is similar to ratom, the Thai word for

24

sorrow. As a result, frangipanis were thought to bring unhappiness. Today, however, the blossoms are presented as fragrant offerings to Buddha and Thai people wear them on special festival days like Songkran (Thai New Year). They are also commonly used as decoration in homes, hotels, spas and restaurants - again thanks to their wonderful scent as well as their colouration. The most common are the while blossoms, although they can also grow in yellow and pink colours as well.

So while you enjoy your time in our beautiful part of the world, keep an eye out for the frangipani and its wonderful aroma.

FACTSHEET The Leelavaddee was originally called Lantom in Thailand, meaning regret and sorrow. It has changed its connotation since a princess changed its name, and is now an expensive and sought after plant that produces a flower that is the national flower and official symbol of People Republic of Laos, where it is called Champa. For the Lao people, Champa flower represents sincerity and joy in life. The flower is often used as a decoration in ceremonies or made into a garland for welcoming guests.

Its common English name is Frangipani (botanical: Plumeria).

A native plant to warm climatic areas, it is treasured for flower arrangements and for Thai headsets, and also for medical purposes.

Frangipanis grow as high as 10 metres in Thai tropical regions; they have succulent, spaced well apart thick branches with long leathery, fleshy leaves in clusters. Frangipani trees prefer dry, sandy soil in full sun.

Frangipanis flowers come in a vast range of stunning colors that range from white, pink, yellow, and multiple pastels to deep red, with wonderful, intoxicating fragrances which are even more prominent in the late afternoon, evening and at night. These invigorating scents are known to affect the way people feel. It is arguably the most popular flower in the world, and it is used to produce an exotic and expensive essential oil renowned for its aromatic qualities such as soothing, relaxing, toning, promoting self awareness, confidence and motivation.

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GREEN SEASON HAPPY HOUR

4.00PM – 8.00PM LIVE MUSIC , LIVE SPORTS A/C, FREE WIFI, KITCHEN OPEN UNTIL MIDNIGHT

GREAT FOOD, LIVE MUSIC, LIVE SPORTS

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Muslim Food Stalls

Minibus to Krabi

PPHARAT THARA BE O N

Noppharat Thara Pier, Boats to Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Phuket

Minibus to Ao Nang-Krabi

Tsunami Memorial Sculpture

HOLD ME CLOSE

Food Courts Fish Restaurants

Soi 8

ACH

Restaurant

Mosque

Bergers

The Airport The Cave KR Bar

CENTER POINT

Burger King

Soi Centara

Boat Noodle

Lai Thai Apartments

Crazy Gringo TexMex

Longtail Boats to Railay

olice Traffic P Boats tickets Longtail rt offee Ideary Clden Beach RTehso e last an Go fisherm cafe The last

Starbucks Somkiet Buri Resort On the Rock Subway Pizza Company Taj Palace Svensen soi RCA Krabi Heritage Resort Dragon Peace Laguna Resort Bernies The Verandah Resort SK Optic Ao Nang Villa Oceanmart Irish Rover Dive Equipment shop

Minibus to Krabi

to Shell Fossil

Ao Nang Aquavision Diving Paradise Resort Chandee Buffet Siam Comm. Bank Nasha Russia Restaurant Mod Kaew Pub Entertainment Spaghetti House Vogue Pranang Thailandia 2

Clinic

Blue House

Mosque

Ton Company

Scandinavian Residence

Pams Pub

AO NANG VILLAGE

Jult Deli Krabi Consultants

Ao Gift’s Bakery New Rock Blue Nan Market Mountain gW hisk Full y mo Pranang Ale on Corner Hou Titt x & Fr se i Ho iend u se s Local Market Araya Rest.

To KRABI Boossabakorn Spa TOWN

Post Office

AO NANG B EACH

age se Vill adi s Ao Nang Pararden hasi ort T m l Beach Road Boxing Stadium Pa ald G ang ort Re N es er Em o Ao an R 's Bayey n l W c e i a a Att Chn Que Band e Lae Lay Grill ilio aan ous Restaurant Pav B eakh ents stendia nt e Stpartm i r l Lazy Pub o a i niv j A es ilan ra CarTolmaabi Sp ThRa estau rt Kr ee eso sort asd is R Re Bay Al kasai Saw g Mercure Pa Nan Ao ice ort ls Pol Res t a e y l stal a rist a l u h P o C ort od a Minibus to T s L o s f i Res t h Sw Ao Nang ang rant Nig N Ao tau Ban Res W Lu na anyon u na Se ang L La lack C Ba afo sai Happy Bar B r od s chce a oat e s a r B r Longtail Boats to Railay ail B te o bi rt Ter ngtts ar Ech a o r C L K eso e tick R Beach Road NG AO NDAPARADE O SEAFO

Saturday Market

Minibus to Krabi

Sabai Resort

Pharmacy

Noppharat Thara & Phi Phi Islands National Park Headquarter

St.Agnes Church

Sabai Residence Mandawee

Alta Marea Italian Restaurant

NOPPHARAT THARA

KLONG HAENG VILLAGE

Ao Nang Gardens

Wanna’s Place Brazil Grill

Minibus to Ao Nang

Tattoo de Cafe’

Thursday Market

Ao Nang Beach Resort

Nadivana

Hippy Bar Ben Beach Bar

AO NANG BEACH NOPPHARAT THARA BEACH Aning Seafood Aning Restaurant

Cobra Show

Azzurra Restaurant Jeanette's Restaurant Kings Tailor Eden Restaurant

Kitdee Media & Krabi Magazine

Absolute Tailor

SupsaengDao Resort

Nok Minimart

To KLONG MUANG

Ayudhya Suites

TukTuk Minimart

To KRABI TOWN CTOP Nice Nature Homes

WALKING STREET

Boat Restaurant

Centara Krabi Resort

Koh Lanta Highlights

Koh Lanta is situated in the southernmost tip of the Krabi province. It consists of two islands, Koh Lanta Noi and Koh Lanta Yai. Koh Lanta Noi is the smaller of the two islands and does not have tourist facilities.

Visitors traveling by road from the main land pass through the smaller island on the way to Koh Lanta Yai, the center of the tourist operations. Ban Sala Dan village, in the north 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 new comers 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 all 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.

The east coast of Koh Lanta Yay 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: Thai-Muslim, 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 see 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, these Chinese timer shop-houses date 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 to 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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Health & Living Text by : The Lanta Retreat

A powerful tool to increase your level of concentration

Learning to meditate can truly change a person’s life. I have many students who will agree on this statement. Because they get a device that helps them to stay in the presence instead of the past and the future.

Through the practice we also get excellent tools to be used handling our emotions and thoughts, an achievement of personal development, how much of which you decide. This is a perfect method to handle a stressful life and lots of demands.

The impact daily meditation and mindfulness practice has in humans life is indescribable. It truly can make the difference between career success and long sickness due to immense stress. Sadly, I experience this very often. But just as often I am fortunate to meet people with self insight who get hold of themselves before it is to late, and use a couple of weeks to learn how to regain control over their body and mind. Many of them use some of their vacation, every year, to come back and boost themselves again.

My meditation technique starts with the body. Often we are totally cut off from our body, often as high up in the body as the chest, which makes it impossible to inhale properly. We breathe shallow instead of filling our lungs with air. Often it takes a while to learn to breathe correctly. It is also hard work to get to know your body

again and learn to relax every muscle, but you quickly get your reward. You will feel that breathing truly is life; no breathing = no life. You realize that it is the breath that controls your body and mental response to stress. And when you rapidly relax your entire body before sleep, you experience the joy of regaining control over your muscles. When the body is totally relaxed and the breath is deep and slow, you easily fall asleep. You experience high quality sleep and you wake up refreshed, ready for a new demanding day.

The mind is our big issue, and it will remind you about its existence frequently during the meditation course. The mind will battle with you, trying hard to get your attention away from practice, both with flatter and threat. But due to very effective mind-control-tools, you will succeed in conquering the mind. You will learn to increase your level of concentration. Your mind will obey you eventually; it just takes time and daily practice. You will experience the happiness of a quiet mind, and stay in the presence; this is what I call true happiness.

This article is provided by Annelie at The Retreat, located in Klong Dao Beach.

Contact them for more information on 08 46751094 or check www.theretreatthailand.com

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At a Glance

…without becoming another statistic With ‘Green Season’ nearly over and plenty of glorious sunshine MIXED with a bit of rain, it’s a perfect opportunity for the ‘novice’ motorbike enthusiast to summon up the courage and take a leisurely ride around the Island of Koh Lanta Yai. Many resorts as well as private operators have bikes available for hire all year ‘round, at quite reasonable prices. With the freedom of your own transport you can set your own pace along the easy to follow road system that loops around the Island. There are many interesting places to explore, all of which are not too far off the beaten track, from the National Park and the Sea Gypsy Village in the South to the port of Ban Saladan in the North and many small villages and secluded beaches in between.

Some important safety points to consider before setting off should include:

•Ride as close to the left-hand side of the road as possible •Always wear your helmet •Practice and become familiar with all aspects of your bike’s handling •Remember to put up your bike kick stand •Use you mirrors, often •Using your back brake first is the safest method of stopping •Use your indicators and horn when overtaking •Don’t turn right from the middle of the road •Ride in single file only •Don’t speed, as you are a danger to not only yourself but local villagers and wildlife •Alcohol and bikes are a bad, bad combination

By following these simple road rules you can avoid damage to you and your bike and at worst becoming another motorcycle statistic. Go on. Give it go.

Every day is different. With a little effort you are sure to discover some the hidden secret spots on one of the safest places in Thailand for the novice bike rider.

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KOH LANTA YAI NORTH

Passenger Post Office Ferry Car Ferry to Lanta Noi & mainland

KAW KWANG BEACH Kaw Kwang Resort Blue Planet Divers

Lanta Diver Ko Lanta Diving Center Blue Planet Divers The Frog

BAN SALADAN

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Elephant Trekking

Time for Lime Cooking School & Restaurant Klong Dao boxing stadium Holiday Villa Lanta Resort Lanta Sand Resort Lanta Tavern Escape Cabins Lanta Diver Funky Fish Indo Furniture Dreamy Spa I-Yarade Real Estate Lanta Palm Beach Lanta Law Thanee Layana Resort & Spa Tides Restaurant

ar B n ing e d E Din &

Enjoy tasty Thai dishes European Food New Zealand Beef Fillet Pizza & Pasta Wines & Cocktails

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PHRA AE LONG BEACH

Klong Dao Main Road Beside PT Petrol Station For Reservations Contact Khun Supavadee [Azmi] : 086 8840052 - Mr. Markus : 083 1066606 www.eden-restaurant-lanta.com, e-mail : mail@eden-restaurant-lanta.com

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White Flower Apartments Bajen Steakhouse & Nintendo Wii Minigolf

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Elephant Trekking to Lanta Old Town & eastern islands

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MARKETS: Ban Saladan Sunday mornings FEB09+.pdf Lanta OldESCAPE TownCABIN Monday mornings1/19/09 Klong Nin Saturday mornings

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2:06:43 PM

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Fun & Professional evening Cooking Classes on the Beach Front FANTASTIC 6 dish Tasting Menu that changes every evening

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Fråga efter SVT World på ditt hotell – du får en naturbok!

Skriv kortfattat vad hotellet svarade på din fråga. Notera hotellets namn, och e-postadress samt om SVT World finns i alla rum, bara i lobbyn eller inte alls. Skicka uppgifterna till oss.

Posta: SVT World, Sveriges Television, SE-105 10 Stockholm E-post: svtworld@svt.se eller fyll i blanketten på vår hemsida: svt.se/svtworld För abonnemang: ConNova TVX, svtworld@connova.se +46 (0)141 - 20 39 10, www.connova.se

Real Estate News Text by : Ton (Pierre-Yves) Loriers Managing Director, Ton Company Ltd.

Extra Demand for Krabi Property Breathtaking Krabi in Southern Thailand is receiving record numbers of visitors this year. Voted second in the Australian travellers 2011 ‘The Worlds Ten Most Popular Beach Resort Destinations’ for its picturesque resort at Ao Nang, it is hardly surprising that Krabi is more popular than ever!

With an expansion expected to complete at Phuket International airport in 2012 and new flights scheduled to arrive at Krabi international Airport from Oslo and Munich later this year, Krabi can look forward to ever increasing numbers of tourists at its stunning islands, National Parks and on its famously white sandy beaches.

To meet the extra demand for tourist accommodation, Krabi developers are tirelessly working on stunning new Krabi hotels and resorts in addition to impressive residential properties to cater for the increased number of property investors choosing the area. These quality properties combine innovative Thai engineering and design techniques with traditional Thai architecture to produce extraordinary buildings to extremely high specifications.

Increase in Krabi Construction Activity There is significant activity in the construction of major hotels and resorts, with the much anticipated Mercure Krabi Deevana in Ao Nang and the Beyond Resort Krabi in Klong Muang, likely to be up and running by the end of 2011. The opening of these two luxury Krabi hotels and resorts will be hotly followed by the Centara Grand Lanta located in Koh Lanta and the Ibis Krabi in Ao Nang. There are other high profile real estate projects in Krabi currently underway, including the Krabi Port

Takola, a marina development set to include both residential and holiday accommodation, the Krabi Boat Lagoon, a similar concept and sister site to the popular Phuket Boat Lagoon and the Krabi Royal Marina, a desirable beachfront development with a selection of luxury Krabi condominiums and villas.

And it is likely that another exciting development will begin shortly, as a prime piece of oceanfront land (200 meters) in Had Yao is currently up for sale – rare plots of premium land such as this do not stay on the Krabi property market for long!

South East Asia Property Awards 2011 With so much activity in Krabi construction and real estate, it is hoped that some of Krabi’s talented developers will receive nominations for the prestigious South East Asia Property Awards 2011. Perhaps Krabi’s own leading architecture and construction business, Ton Company Ltd, will receive a much deserved nomination for Best Developer (Thailand), Best Villa Development (Thailand), Best Condo Development (Thailand) or the coveted Best Architectural Design or Best Interior Design.

For more information on the comprehensive villa design, construction and management services offered by Ton Company Ltd, please contact us at (075) 695-633 or by email at: Ton@TonCompany.com. www.KrabiArchitect.com - www.TonCompany.com - www.KrabiVilla.com

Property Report

Krabi Tourism Boom: 2011 the Busiest Year Ever!

Just like its close neighbour Phuket, Krabi is enjoying a massive boom in tourism, which looks set to continue until the end of 2011 and beyond.

The sudden surge in tourist numbers is providing a welcome economic boost for the myriad of Krabi hotels and resorts, from budget backpacker hostels in Railay Beach to the luxury resorts in Ao Nang, who are all witnessing a huge growth in occupancy rates.

Tourists have been flocking to Krabi for many years, but this year they appear to be arriving in ever increasing numbers, keen to explore the breathtaking scenery and enjoy the exhilarating sporting and leisure activates on offer in this beautiful province.

So what is the reason for this sudden influx of tourists to Krabi in 2011, particularly during such a challenging global economy?

Well, tourism is on the increase in Thailand overall, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) projecting that revenue from both international and domestic tourism will reach 1 trillion baht and that the total number of international visitors will surpass 15 million in 2011. TAT has been focusing on promoting Thailand as the destination of choice for new niche tourist markets such as female and wellness travellers and their sustained campaigns and marketing activities seem to be paying off, luring more tourists to Thailand than ever before.

Krabi is more than capable of satisfying the demands of these modern tourists and is fast developing a strong reputation for top quality eco tourism, in addition to its traditional holiday market. Tourists with new, disposable income from many of the developing countries such as China, South Korea and Russia are also discovering Krabi, adding to its army of devoted fans from Europe, the US and Australia.

This year, the months of January and February alone saw a substantial increase in Krabi villa and hotel bookings, partly

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attributed to the poor winter in Europe, Chinese New Year and half term holidays. Tourists desperate to escape the bleak economic downturn and dismal weather in their own countries are turning to the beautiful Krabi climate and the outstanding value for money that Krabi holidays offer, for a much needed vacation. So much so, that many resorts and hotels in Krabi are complaining that flights to Krabi are over booked and insufficient to cater for the increase in demand.

A number of projects designed to improve passenger numbers at Phuket international airport should have a positive, knock-on effect for Krabi resorts and hotels – a long-term expansion project is due to begin in 2012 and complete in 2014. Krabi International Airport itself will benefit from a new and regular, non-stop service from both Oslo and Munich to Krabi, which will begin in December 2011 and provide much needed extra capacity.

To cope with the dramatic swell in tourist numbers, Krabi construction companies are busy with a number of new high profile projects that will significantly improve the number of quality hotels and resorts in the region. Both the Mercure Krabi Deevana in Ao Nang and the Beyond Resort Krabi in Klong Muang are scheduled for completion in the last quarter of 2011.

The Centara Grand Lanta Island resort in Koh Lanta will begin welcoming its first customers in 2012 and the Ibis Krabi Ao Nang is expected to open its doors in 2013.

Whatever the future holds, Krabi is well on course to achieving record tourism figures simply because it is flexible and willing enough to adapt and offer its world famous hospitality to an ever changing and fickle holiday market.

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Traditional Architecture

Thai Pavilion and Tropical Garden

Dazzling in the sun, its golden roof tiles shining, a Thai Pavilion is an exquisite example of Thai craftsmanship. Some Thai Pavilions are constructed without nails or screws, and in some Thai public areas, a Thai pavilion is surrounded by reflecting pools and a serene Thai-style garden. Some Thai Pavilions are real work of art: teakwood structures boasting red lacquer finish with sometimes intricate decorative details and gold leaf accents. The Thai word for this type of open-air structure is “sala” (pronounced sa-LA). Salas are commonly used as shelters from heat and rain. In Thailand, where access to water is associated with good health and prosperity, salas are often located near water.

The planting design for a Thai garden where a Thai Pavilion is placed should emphasize texture and form. Plants include ornamental grasses such as bamboo and large-leaf plants typical of a tropical Thai garden. A Thai garden design also includes common elements like glazed water jars and clipped tree art, called “mai dat” and practiced since the 13th century.

Fragrant plants with gold-colored and patterned foliage should grace the garden.

THANEE ATTORNEY & COUNSELOR AT LAW

E-mail: info@thaneelaw.com www.thaneelaw.com

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INTERNATIONAL LAW OFFICE STANDARDS YOU CAN TRUST

- Legal advisory - Project management - Company formation - Work permits - Visa and immigration - Business contracts and licenses - Wills and testaments

- Tax and accounting - Real estate expertise - Litigation and dispute resolution - Notary public - Marriages and divorces - Insurances - Mortgages

Land Matters

Land in Thailand is measured in rai, ngan and wah, and land prices are usually expressed in baht per rai or baht per wah for smaller plots.

Metric measurements are normally used in construction and measurement of buildings.

A rai is a unit of area equal to 1,600sqm (for example 40m × 40m), used for measuring land areas. Its current size is precisely derived from the meter, but it is neither part nor it is recognized by the modern metric system, the International System. One Rai equals 4 ngaan or 400 tarang wah, aka square waa. It is commonly used in Thailand and equals 16 are, another unit based on the meter and commonly used in several countries recognized, though not encouraged, by the SI. Many westerners use inches, feet and yards, others us the metric system of meters and hectares. The tables below should help you convert measurements to the ones you are most familiar with.

1 sq. wah = 4 sqm 1 Rai = 4 Ngan or 1,600 sqm 1 acre = 2,0471 rai or 43,560 sq.ft.

1 ngan = 100 wah or 400sqm 1 hectare = 6.25 rai or 10,000 sqm

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Volunteers & donations are greatly appreciated and NEEDED. PLEASE HELP US TO CONTINUE THIS WORK www.lantaanimalwelfare.com 084 304 4331, 089 967 5017

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lLocation: Ao Nang – Krabi - Thailand l Bedrooms: Studio, 1 and 2 bedroomsl lFeatures: Air-con, lift, terraces, private entrance l Price: From 3,000,000 Thai Bahtl For more information contact:

EN: Thomas +66 (0) 89 9085990 TH: Ton +66 (0) 89 7727858 Web: www.exotiqproperty.com Email: thomas@exotiqproperty.com

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Italian Home Furnishings

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PHUKET

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Living

Interior Design

Nowadays, there are several companies in Thailand providing complete interior design service to assist new and existing homeowners in turning their dreams into a reality. Whether you are looking for a fresh new look for your retirement home, a fabulous theme for your new luxury house, the exclusive tropical villa, an executive office, board room, a new night club and bar or the ‘wow’ factor for that 5 star hotel/resort.

Interior design is now an integral part of both residential and commercial properties in Thailand. It is an essential aspect of any major hotel chain or resort and vital to bring exciting new concepts to the market place. Long gone have the days when hotels could suffice with standard rooms and furniture; to compete on the international market it is vital each has their own special theme, which soon becomes part of their overall trademark.

A trademark, which if created correctly will have their customers coming back time and time again.

The right colour schemes to calm the mind, soft, tasteful furnishings to relax the body and enchanting sculptures to muse upon. These and many more unique concepts not only enrich your lifestyle but also put you on a new path of artistic discovery. You will welcome the new soothing effects of the right use of colour and wallow in the luxuriant nature of your dazzling new property.

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From Chiang Mai to Phuket, and Khon Kaen to Krabi, exciting professional, creative people service offices, corporate boardrooms, apartments, villas, bars/ restaurants, exotic tropical resorts and hotels. They continually bring creative and exciting new concepts, rich in fashionable colours, beautiful designs and lush comfortable furnishings; whether you have ideas or not, it is of no matter as Thai seasoned professionals guide through a wonderful realm of enchanting and inspirational suggestions; restricted only by their fervent imaginations and your specific desires.

If you are a homeowner in this magnificent corner of the world, this truly is a chance to open the doors on a whole new world of Asian interior design.

This article is provided to you by Exotiq Real Estate Brokers. With offices in Ao Nang, Krabi, Koh Lanta and other destinations in Bali and Thailand, they offer the largest selection of villas and land for sale in the area, with access to an impressive online database. Visit www.exotiqproperty.com or contact 089 9085990 (EN-FR-IT) for Ao Nang, Krabi and Koh Lanta enquiries. You can also email Thomas@ exotiqproperty.com for enquiries and advice related to real estate.

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Directory Businesses in this magazine DEVELOPMENTS Sunrise Creek Villa Rattana Nong Thale River Residence The Lai Tai Attico Ao Nang Coconut Bay Lanta

REAL ESTATE Exotiq Property Attico Condominium Ton Company MD Houseware Desjoyaux Pools Krabi Consultants

DIVERS Lanta Diver Blue Planet Divers

RESTAURANTS Carnivore Steak & Grill Time for Lime Eden Bar & Drink The Irish Rover Paddys Klong Muang

ENTERTAINMENT Ao Nang Centerpoint The Irish Rover HOTELS & RESORTS Sabai Resort & Residence Layana Resort & Spa VisitLanta.com Lanta Island Resort Lanta Castaway Resort Escape Cabins Lanta Amari Vogue Krabi Sheraton Krabi Beach LAWYERS Thanee Law

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SERVICES Marina Yoga Lanta Animal Welfare The Lanta Retreat Mike Collection Tailor NewspaperDirect Krabi Lanta Car Rental TOURS & ACTI VITIES Sea Kayak Krabi VILLAS Koh Jum Beach Villas Krabi Villa

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