GET LUCKY WITH TOURISTS CARD APPLY NOW TO RECEIVE OFFERS AND CHANCE TO WIN RIMOWA
10 DEC 2016 – 31 MAR 2017
· FREE DTAC SIM CARD*
· 1,000 THB DINING*
WITH EVERY 20,000 THB SPENT (MAX 2 VOUCHERS / CUSTOMER / DAY)
(PRESENT YOUR PASSPORT)
NEW C OLOR FIRST TI ME IN THAIL AND
· ONE WAY LIMOUSINE HOTEL TO AIRPORT * WITH EVERY 40,000 THB SPENT (MAX 2 VOUCHERS / CUSTOMER / DAY)
10 DEC 2016 – 3 MAR 2017
· WEEKLY TOP SPENDER
RECEIVES SET OF 2 LUGGAGE FROM RIMOWA* For more information, please contact Customer & Tourist Service Center +66-2269-1000 ext. 1188 Social Media @TheEMDistrict
The EM District
*Terms and conditions may apply
@TheEMDistrict
6
Love yourself
8
Chiang Rai
contents
12
The Samoeng loop
14
Chiang Mai luxuries for Valentine's Day
18
Trains, bikes and ferries
22
When we missed the ferry
24
Laguna Lăng Cô., Danang, Central Vietnam
28
Taiwan, here we come!
32
Meet the Headteacher
38
Why international education matters more than ever
42
A happy mommy happy in business
44
Harvard College in Asia Programme
50
What can we learn from history?
52
Digital learning in the primary school
90
Ransomware
54
Great gratitude
93
Fun, fit, family
56
From the diary of a new mom
94
Marriage breakdown
58
Looking back and looking forward
96
Alsace
62
Dear Daniel
100
Your heart needs love too
64
Great Pagoda at Wat Paknam
102
Public speaking
66
A fresh perspective on India
104
Sun salutations
68
The toll of expat life
108
Family yoga
70
Dinner with a Thai family
110
Bilingual Bites
72
Meet the artist: Roberto Ferin
112
Nana Love
76
To come in 2017
114
Superwoman
78
Family
118
Thailand’s new ice hockey league
79
Bangkok Community Theatre
120
Fine dining in your home
80
Lost but not forgotten
124
Talad Nad
82
Christmas, two cultures, one spirit
126
Social diary
84
A family affair
128
Social diary
86
Family eating in the New Year
130
Connected by blood or circumstance
88
Floating away
Accounts Panumas Kayan (Daow) daow.elbkk@gmail.com
Administration Kantima Kawinchan (Gun) gun.elbkk@gmail.com
Art Dew Piyaman dew@elbkk.com
Account director Tassapon Sutthidetkul (Tass) tass.elbkk@gmail.com 093 584 6748
Publisher and managing editor Nick Argles nick@elbkk.com 089 721 3384 / 083 734 2333
For all advertising, editorial, marketing, social media or sponsorship enquiries please write to or call the publisher - nick@elbkk.com or tass.elbkk@gmail.com 384 Sukhumvit Garden City, Sukhumvit soi 79, Bangchak, Phrakanong, Bangkok 10260 Tel. 02 331 3266 Fax: 02 331 5261
Subscribe now Subscribe today to Expat Life in Thailand and have your issues delivered direct to your door! Simply send a bank transfer to Pareto Communications Co. Ltd. Bank of Ayudhya account number 001-9-46370-4 savings account and send a confirmation email to subscribe@elbkk.com confirming your payment and giving us your address, email address and telephone number in case of problems. One postal issue 250B or six issues 1200B
Visit www.expatlifeinthailand.com or www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand The information contained in this magazine or website, while believed to be correct, is not guaranteed. Expat Life in Thailand magazine or website and its directors, employees and consultants do not accept any liability for any error, omission or misrepresentation in relation to the information. Nor does it accept any loss, damage, cost or expense incurred by any person whatsoever arising out of or referable to the information displayed within Expat Life in Thailand magazine or website. Any view expressed by a journalist is not necessarily the view of Expat Life in Thailand magazine or website. No part of Expat Life in Thailand magazine or website can be reproduced or copied without the express consent of the publisher.
4
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
FEATURES
Love yourself
Shop and Mingle Trunk Show on 4th March 2017 concept which sources fashion designs from Indonesia from beautiful batiks to ikats and many, many more. The event will show only a handful of designers at each time to keep the feel - intimate and personal. There will also be a short fashion show with local and expatriate ladies as models which is always fun to watch and participate. To honour ourselves as women we are calling it Love Yourself. We cannot love others if we don't love and care for ourselves first. Our self-esteem needs to be boosted and brought up high before there is love to give. That is why we have decided to honour and share the work of Dr Pokpong Amornvit DDS a prosthetic surgeon who tirelessly helps to operate on the underprivileged who need surgery for their face caused by tumour or accidents. The Golden Jubilee Medical Centre Foundation has been operating since 2005 and still continues to help and support maxillofacial rehabilitation and research. Dr Pokpong operates on more than 300 patients a year. He will be present at the Trunk Show to give a short talk about his foundation. The Trunk Show will be held at the newly refurbished Metropole, located in Thong Lor.
Ratna and Ruth are old friends, they met 19 years ago on the expat trail and have managed to reconnect here in Bangkok again after so many years. They both love to give their time to charity and connecting people. The idea of a Trunk Show came about over coffee a year ago and they had their first in September last year. The event invites various new and established designers from South East Asia and beyond to show their current collection to an audience of local and expatriate ladies in Bangkok. Those that are interested in fashion and jewellery from different countries around Asia, which in turn makes it interesting and different each time as well as supporting various Thai charities. As the first event was a success they would like to continue the Shop and Mingle theme with new and upcoming designers from abroad to showcase and share their designs. There will be designers from Singapore showing their fashion and jewellery collection. A fashion designer from Bangladesh showing her collection of cotton outfits and Saxum a jewellery brand from the Philippines. Other brands participating are Javana, a jewellery brand in exquisite silver made in Nepal. Moniko a brand which makes 100 years old Japanese kimonos into the most beautiful clutches. SeDayu a boutique
6
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
Reviews
Your stay at the Metropole Bangkok will be an experience like no other serviced residence you have experienced before. It brings that sense of elegance, together with a familiarity and level of comfort from home. The Ascott Limited (Ascott) better known for its range of serviced residences under the brands Ascott, Citadines and Somerset has chosen Bangkok as the first venue for its prestigious Crest Collection in Asia. The other three Crest Collection properties are in Paris so the architecture fuses the Thai “Golden Age� into European style and charm. Bangkok being one of the most liveliest and busiest cities in the world and situated in the most accessible and upmarket area in Thong Lor, the Metropole caters to a unique travelling experience of individuals from all over the world and connects people to a real sense of living. The Crest Collection has a distinctive character which brings the highest level of accommodation to a prestigious neighbourhood. There are 116 comfortable luxury apartments range between a studio and a one bedroom of your choice. They come with a fully equipped kitchen, lounge and dining area and some units have a private balcony. To relax and unwind after a long day with sublime facilities including a swimming pool, fitness centre with cold Onsen, on site restaurant and a residents lounge. If you have friends, family or business guests staying from overseas then Metropole, The Crest Collection is guaranteed to impress and will cosset you and your guests providing the ideal home from home.
Thonglor / New Petchaburi Road, 2802, Bangkapi, Huaykwang, Bangkok 10310, Thailand. 02 314 8555 I enquiry.thailand@the-ascott.com
In Thailand, Ascott is the largest international serviced residence owner-operator with 17 properties and more than 3,000 units across Bangkok, Pattaya and Sri Racha. Seven of the serviced residences are scheduled to open progressively to 2024.
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
7
Travel
Chiang Rai by Alex Bannard
Alex spends some misty rainy season days in the mountains in Chiang Rai, revelling in lush serenity. We headed to Chiang Rai almost immediately the summer school holidays started, slap bang in the middle of the rainy season and booked into a mountain resort. It was fabulous with a huge suite room in which the kids delighted racing around and generally being annoyingly rambunctious, whilst we enjoyed the stunning views over the lush mountain; it was all very serene. If not a little quiet - we were one of only two of the 56 suites that were booked. Day one commenced with breakfast watching the mist on the surrounding mountains clear, before heading out on a bike ride around Chiang Rai. Our guide took us through the surrounding countryside, showing us water lilies which apparently taste 'a bit softer and not very like morning glory', so I'm guessing not that good, then? We saw fields of rice paddies, pineapples and forests of rubber trees with the bark pulled down to encourage the latex to drop into containers tied into the trunk. I loved the insight into rural Thailand.
8
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
Then we went to the white temple, Wat Rong Khun, which was designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat, a famous Thai artist. It is spectacular and so different to any temple I have seen yet. Quite macabre and yet strangely entertaining there are skulls hanging from trees, a moat of hands reaching up from 'hell' in as a bridge escorts you over them away from temptation towards redemption in the safe confines of the temple. It was heaving but lucky for us it closes from 12-1pm, along with a lot of attractions in Chiang Rai, so as we left we got picture perfect photo oops without the madding crowds. The kids and I also wrote out wishes on silver leaves to be hung from a nearby tree. They love doing things like this and diligently scrolled their wishes based upon a loving kindness meditation I've been teaching them. Thank goodness, I was dreading it turning into a silver leaf version of the annual letter to Father Christmas.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
golden triangle to view Myanmar and Laos from the gloriously tacky viewpoint on the Thai border. Then, although Mr P had eschewed the elephant experience at the Anataylia – just hanging out with them costs 19,000B for 2 hours, which weighs in at almost 100 Pound Sterling each. Personally I think that is worth it to support these animals and provide the children with a responsible experience but our self-appointed FD thought otherwise. However he was generous enough to take us for lunch there. We were so lucky to see 2 elephants were roaming freely around the gardens and the kids delighted in getting the binoculars out to watch them. We were also treated to a small herd of water buffalo thrashing through the chocolate coloured river. So all in all it was well worth it and a brilliant compromise, not to mention a more authentic and ethical elephant experience. We cycled further to a natural cave full of bats and Buddhas, a total of 28km expertly completed by my little Tour de Chiang Rai-ers. I loved it all. My 8 year old son had trouble with his 'peanuts' chaffing on the seat: cue a lesson from dad on 'positioning' within the old boxers and his fascinated little sister asking 'What's a scrote daddy?' Thankfully that comically put an end to the whining. Obviously the day ended with the ubiquitous ride down the river in a long tail boat. It was a great start to the trip and we were rewarded with well deserved beers on our return to the hotel. I absolutely recommend the bike tour as a way to see Chiang Rai. The following day, started again in the mist and rain at the tea plantation. Acres of rolling hills and green, green leaves. The smell of tea wafted from the 'wilting room' where millions of leaves are left to dry out. We had a lovely cuppa sitting on a table next to a Buddhist monk who was enjoying his brew with a scrumptious looking piece of cake and picked up some gifts for the folks back home. We headed to the
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
9
Travel
Onto Doi Tong for a tour of the King Mother's chalet in the mountains. A wonderful take on the blending of Swiss and Thai architecture as we toured this humble abode and heard tales of how well regarded she was as she restored Doi Tong and the surrounding area from a barren opium wasteland capable only of supporting drug trafficking, into the lush landscape which now supports local agriculturists, horticulturists and their families. After wandering through the Botanical Gardens we drove along the scenic headland for the mountain viewpoint of Myanmar and Laos. Up and down through winding mountain
10
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
roads we glimpsed stunning views, the border police playing footie but the famous viewpoint eluded us as the kids grew more and more impatient and car sick. When we finally pulled into the side of the road for a snatched shot we got a cry from the backseat, 'Was that it?!' Followed by huge sighs. Time to head back for the obligatory sunset Singha. On our final day we decided to visit the Black House, Baandam a museum celebrating the work of local artist Thawan Duchanee. This unusual collection of dark teak wood houses in a village on the outskirts of Chiang Rai is as fascinating as it is weird. Lots of houses full of skeletons, crocodile and snake skins, various furs, furniture made from buffalo horns and the occasional onion shaped concrete monstrosity filled with circles of giant shells. Utterly captivating and completely bonkers. The trip drew to a close with a visit to Wat Phra Kaeo, where in 1434 a bolt of lightening cracked the old Chedi to reveal the original Emerald Buddha which now resides in a temple in grounds of the Grand Palace in Bangkok after touring a variety of cities in the north of Thailand and southern Laos. A fake emerald Buddha now rests in this Wat, well it is Thailand: fake or original it's all the same, or as they say guaranteed original fake. A local monk thought my son in his orange t shirt had his eyes on a stint in the monastery and I relished the buzz and sense of community in this very real temple, as novice monks gathered in small groups and the real deal got on with all things divine. So luxurious elephant experiences or not, Chiang Rai is worth a trip, the scenery alone is stunning but the randomness of unusual temples, the lushness of the tea plantations and some unexpected attractions is oh so alluring.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
suvanamajcha 2
suvanamajcha 1
BY Chantaka Puranananda
khao tao hua hin thailand
prices from B80m
F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N A N D E X C L U S I V E O F F E R S
+66 89 672 5759 , +66 85 348 2890 , +44 772 072 1957 E m a i l : c h a n ta k a . p u r a n a n a n da @ g m a i l . c o m
w w w. wa n g m a j c h a . c o m
s u va n a m a j c h a 4 , 3
majchanu 4,3,2,1
6 pool villas and 4 semi-detached SEA-VIEW HOUSES fully furnished with bespoke furniture by chantaka design private beach tropical g ardens 25 meter pool gym and spa
Travel
The Samoeng loop by David Richards
The Samoeng Loop is in Chiang Mai Province in northern Thailand. It is a 100km circuit that starts and ends in the city of Chiang Mai. Its winding road into the mountains northwest of Chiang Mai is highly popular with both bicyclists and motorcyclists. With a population of 24,000 with hill tribes such as the Karen, Lisu and Lu working on the agricultural fields.
Located in a valley west of Chiang Mai, the only access to this district is via narrow, winding roads lined on both sides by farms. The route is fairly straightforward and roughly an hour away from the main city. Driving through the Samoeng loop is a breath of fresh air and it’s scenic landscape with rolling hills. You will find many agricultural fields growing a variety of crops. Strawberries, gooseberries, passion fruit. A typical farm in these parts can produce more than 3,000kg of strawberries per rai per year, for which quantity wholesalers will pay around 120,000B. This is a high value yield crop, compared to the revenue earned by other crops. The fruits raised in closed patches to protect them from insects and disease, farmers began catering to tourists once they realised the potential for money, many signs are erected in the Samoeng area where tourists can
12
February/March 2017
pick fruit for a modest fee. Retail prices for strawberries in Samoeng vary, ranging from 50B per kilogram all the way up to 250B/kg. On the entrance of the strawberry farm are wooden go carts where you
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
can have a race downhill for a small fee. These wooden go carts are a fun pastime for the young of the hill tribes. There are markets that sell a variety of clothing, fabrics and local handicrafts. The path is lined with
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
plenty of fruit sellers walking through the strawberry patches there are a variety of different plants and garden. Further up the mountains towards the peak is a camping site, we enquired to see if there were any camping spaces available but they were fully booked. The camping site overlooks the mountain range with a footpath. A small restaurant is located up the hill, serving Thai food and seasonal dishes. There is a cafe with excellent coffee from the royal project. Highly recommend are the portobello mushrooms, the carrot cake is excellent and the best I've had in Thailand. We continued further up the mountains to see more farm areas. There are a large selection of guesthouses and hotels to choose, Nov - Feb are peak times so it is best to book in advance as rooms go quickly. The guesthouses and hotels blend in with the environment, developers having been considerate
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
to the landscape while using using sustainable building materials. Spending the weekend in Samoeng is a breath of fresh air and anyone who wants to get out of the city.
The list of strawberry farms: - Suan Doi Kaew Strawberry Farm - Nop Phu Fha Strawberry Farm - Maejo 72 Strawberry Farm
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
13
Travel
Chiang Mai luxuries for Valentine's Day by Laura Gibbs
The once sleepy Northern city of Chiang Mai is growing up into a luxurious getaway. While Chiang Mai was once famed for being a budget location, with some of the cheapest and most delicious food in Southeast Asia, it is now becoming known for offering amazing value for money with regards to high end resorts and fine dining. Chiang Mai even boasts Trip Advisors best restaurant in Thailand - David’s Kitchen, a romantic, upscale restaurant on the east side of town. David’s Kitchen was also placed within the top 10 restaurants in Asia, also putting Chiang Mai firmly on the culinary map worldwide! Author, and long time Thailand expat, Laura Gibbs recently released a new book called ‘Luxurious Chiang Mai’. It covers everything from resorts styled as miniature kingdoms, 10 course meals fit for a king, 3 hour pampering sessions, and everything in between. A perfect guide for honeymooners and weekend getaways, Laura offers us some tips for where to little luxuries in Chiang Mai this Valentine's Day!
Start the morning with merit If you wake up early enough in the morning, then you will get a glimpse of the orange robed monks silently collecting their alms in the streets of Chiang Mai. Watching them walk mindfully through the small soi’s of the city offers an engaging and spiritual moment. Where past traditions transcend into the present, and where residents of the city come and wait
patiently to offer alms and wai to the monks. Visitors to Chiang Mai are welcome to give alms, but it best to ask for assistance from a Thai so as not to overstep any cultural boundaries. Siripanna Villa Resort offers a morning activity to give alms to local monks. The resort organises everything, from the food donation to the clothing that needs to be worn, and talk you through the official steps for giving alms. After making merit your day can officially begin. Spend the morning by a lake Since you are up early make use of the cool, crisp mornings for some reflection and time in nature. At Chiang Mai University, the Ang Kaew Reservoir is a tranquil, peaceful lake reflecting the green slopes of Doi Pui mountain on it’s surface. In the early mornings the lake is mostly deserted and visitors can take a stroll around the lake, take some pictures and smell the flowers. If you are the kind of person who needs coffee to start the morning, then head to Asama Coffee shop. Opening at 8am on the dot, this tiny cafe sits next to a
14
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
then a visit to Ristr8to cafe is a must - this cafe lives, breathes and serves amazing coffee!
small lake and offers impressive views of Doi Suthep and beyond. Asama also has some of the best coffee in town so treat yourself to a strong cappuccino to wake up, or even an espresso con panna for breakfast. Dip in a pool If the temperature starts to climb in the morning then you know it's a pool day. Pack your swimsuit, sun lotion and a good book and head to one of Chiang Mai’s stylish swimming pools. If your hotel doesn’t offer one, then head to one that does. The ShangriLa’s tree and lounger lined pool is a blue oasis on in a busy area of town. The Eco Resort has a large pool for those wishing to swim laps, while the Veranda Resort just outside of Chiang
Mai city has a gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the foothills of the national park. All pools can be used for a small fee or with a purchase off the menu. Mid morning pick me up Once you’ve woken up and started exploring the city you might need a little pick me up continue temple hopping or boutique shopping. In the old city head to Akha Ama, a Chiang Mai based social enterprise with great coffee and friendly staff. They are only a stone's throw away from Wat Phra Singh temple so visiting the two can be combined. Also in the old city is Graph Cafe, a tiny cafe specialising in using Thai beans to produce amazing espresso, cold brew and nitro coffee. If you are in the Nimmanhaemin area
Indulge in a long and lazy lunch Fine dining is one of the most romantic experiences a couple can do, so prepare yourself for multiple courses and multiple meals a day. Italics at Akyra Manor offer a great daily express lunch deal, with starters, a main and dessert for 450B, available from 1 - 3pm. Zest restaurant in Sireeampan boutique hotel is another delicious Italian, relatively unknown, offering a daily set lunch starting at 295B.
High tea in the afternoon One of the most popular indulgences in Chiang Mai is the high tea ceremony. A grand, colonial tradition originally thought to be brought to Asia by the British, the ceremony involves a range of afternoon sweet and savoury nibbles, a pot of tea and a plush lounge to converse in. For a deluxe high tea in Chiang Mai head to the 137 Pillars House or Dhara Dhevi Hotel, but be sure to go hungry as their pyramid of delights are all worth sampling. Thailand also has
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
15
Travel
a similar tradition of high tea but the contents varies slightly to the colonial version. The royals and upper classes of Thai society have an afternoon lunch, which features tea and a larger range of savoury snacks such as grilled chicken and fresh vegetables with spicy dips. Puripunn Baby Grand Boutique Hotel offers a wonderful Thai style high tea, fit for a king, but again go hungry as their high tea is a meal in itself.
are extremely beautiful so buy some orchids or lilies as you walk around to make a truly romantic and spontaneous gesture.
Two, three, four or five hours of pampering Spas in Chiang Mai are a fraction of the price of a western country, with a 3 hour pampering session costing around as little as $100. From facials
to body scrubs, seaweed wraps to four hand massages, indulging in a few hours of spa time is a must do activity when visiting Chiang Mai. Celebrate with cocktails After a hard day of indulging, it’s time to celebrate your relationship with some bright and delectable cocktails. For the best sunset and city views, head over to Rise at Akyra Manor and choose from their extensive (and expertly crafted) cocktail or wine menu. Be sure to arrive before sunset, both for the happy hour and to guarantee a seat at the small and intimate rooftop bar. Chiang Mai is a great place for a romantic getaway. If you are looking for a romantic holiday to remember, interested in experiencing the best
Flower market Between the intriguing Warorot market and the Ping River is the beautiful smelling, colourful and bustling Tom Lamyai flower market. Open 24 hours a day, the market is home to countless species and varieties of flowers coming from different regions of Northern Thailand. Its great to wander around in the early morning or evening when the flower deliveries are arriving. The flowers that Chiang Mai has to offer, or want to have a Valentine's to remember, ‘Luxurious Chiang Mai’ has you covered. A luxurious guide book to the best activities, resorts and experiences Chiang Mai and northern Thailand has to offer, make sure you make the most of your holiday or honeymoon in Chiang Mai and experience 5 star luxury with a two star price tag! This was a guest post by Laura Gibbs, a travel writer based in Thailand and author of ‘Luxurious Chiang Mai: The complete guide to having a 5 star holiday or honeymoon in Chiang Mai’ and ‘Becoming an expat: Thailand’. For more information visit www.luxuryChiangMai.com.
16
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
Travel
Trains, bikes and ferries to the Gulf of Thailand by Neil Brook
‘We usually do this tour on the weekend when the traffic is quiet’ our guide informs us as we grab our push bikes and head out onto the footpath before plunging into the stream of early morning traffic already bumper to bumper and creating more lanes than are marked on the roads. I am used to the Bangkok gridlock however my companion is not as the motorbikes weave in and out, adding to the chaos that both intrigues and terrifies visitors. We're heading to the sea, the Gulf of Thailand and negotiating the streets and alleys is the only way to get to the train that will take us an hour to the coast. We carry our bikes onto a ferry crossing the Chao Phraya River and head to the station. We missed the first train, given assurances by our taxi driver we were in the right place. We now know the difference between the Democracy Monument where we needed to be and the Victory Monument where we are dropped off and how far they are from each other. It's less than an hour until the next train pulls into the station. The station is more a train track that ends where food stalls and markets collide, lining the tracks where people refuel and grab take out for the journey. We have had an early start, too early for breakfast, as we dragged ourselves out of bed before the sun warmed the air. This time of year
18
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
the mornings are cool, 24 degrees which lulls you into a false sense that winter has arrived before 32 degrees beats down on you by midday. Stir fried noodles, sweet mini waffles jammed with raisins and fried banana and pumpkin provides the breakfast both of us need to the kickstart our bodies as we haul our bikes onto the train and sit facing forward ready for the journey ahead. Air conditioning is provided by fans oscillating on the ceiling and through open, shuttered windows. It's quite retro and the breeze cools sufficiently as we hurtle along. The tracks seem unusually narrow. Each carriage has a mind of
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
its own as they sway from side to side and I decide against crossing into the next as the gangway slips and slides, the two sides drifting apart before slamming back together. We stop now and then as people disappear into the countryside and others join from villages hidden from view. Banana palms sprout up along the river banks as if seedlings dropped by the winds chose the waterways by which to flourish as a carpet of pink lilies hugs the banks. At the end of the line we ride to the harbour and cross to the other side again by ferry. Side by side with motorbikes that drive straight on and off which is the perfect way to avoid hitting your head on the low ceilings. At the fishing port of Tha Chin the boats sit idle restocking with supplies that will sustain a crew of 30 or so when they venture out to sea for 2-3 days later in the afternoon. The fishermen are Burmese. the owners are Thai. Meanwhile nets are laid out and repaired, sailors sitting side by side sewing and chatting. The catch will be bountiful with lobster, calamari, prawns, fish ‌ The nearby temple is home to Buddhist, Hindu and Burmese. In the grounds an open air crematorium which is more like a shrine displays a white coffin next to photos and flowers while the family gathers. Later, guests will celebrate the life of the man, the husband, the father and the friend. In the evening the open doors to the furnace will be closed as the coffin is placed inside as the fire ignites and passes the body onto the next life. The family allows us to pay our respects. Grateful and respectful we thank them before moving on. We hit the dirt tracks muddied by recent rains, orange mud gripping our tyres and flinging it up. Just a bit here and there. My friend gets stuck reluctantly putting her feet down. It's either that or end up being covered as gravity takes over. A stationary bike stuck in the mud has nowhere to go but down. We approach the mangroves which are vital for a healthy ecosystem the world over. This is a regeneration project where giant mudskippers waddle across the marshes. The habitat is being extended as women sit in the mud under the baking sun slowly planting seedlings into the ocean floor. This dedication will ensure future generations enjoy the spoils of their labour.
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
19
Travel
Down narrow paths between fields or surrounded by water we continue to the salt farms. Here and there solitary figures are grooming and preparing the plains for the sea waters that will fill the canals and funnel into the patchwork of holding ponds that will eventually dry leaving salt ready for harvest. Thatched sheds provide the shopfronts where buyers and sellers negotiate sales. The smell of fish hangs in the air as we approach ladies sitting around buckets cleaning and gutting before laying out the flesh on drying racks. The sun catches the silver and white bodies and sucks out the moisture before they are bagged up and shipped to markets. Further along tiny pink shrimp are scattered over blue plastic that spills out on the road, a natural shrimp pink on one side and bright pink on the other, apparently more appealing to some tastes with added dye although not to our guide. It's a little disturbing to see the windowless houses, aviaries where birds are kept making nests for soup. We have worked up an appetite and lunch is just around the corner. The area is famous for seafood and here you'll get some of the best you've ever tasted. Our restaurant sits along the water under a string of woven roofs. The table next to us is well into their banquet as we settle. Hot pots bubbling, grilled whole calamari and some clam like things they offer as a taste. Fishy and chewy, they don’t find their way onto our table. Whole white snapper with lemon and chilli, tom yum soup on the side, prawns, stir fried vegetables and some fried pork for good measure. After lunch a forty minute dash and we are back at the station. We are running a little behind schedule due to our late start. The rocking helps lull us into a light sleep dozing in and out as we head back to Bangkok. This journey was to discover a rural Thailand away from the city and as promised we see no tourists during our ride which has been flat and relatively easy. Our guide tells us we have peddled 52 kilometres. Sitting in the back of our taxi in peak hour traffic we appreciate the deserted pathways meandering through the countryside. Rural Thailand is alive and well and is knocking at your door. Slop on some sunscreen and a sense of adventure and get out there. www.grasshopperadventures.com
20
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
International Butchers at Big C
If
you thought Big C was sitting back on its hands and only boasting about low prices, you couldn’t be further from the truth.
“Everyday Low Prices” might be the logo, but behind the scenes the Big C team has worked methodically over the past two years to develop a further guarantee of top quality products, in fresh food departments redesigned to international standards, and is selling more imported food than ever, alongside top quality Thai brands. Big C management noticed that demand for international style ingredients has grown over recent years, seeing the consumer demanding quality foods that they recognize for the most simple to the most eloquent dishes. Surveys found that more and more customers are choosing to eat at home, and want a clean, easy to navigate food store offering fresh, frozen and canned products but not at exorbitant prices.
Big C took that on board and have developed their newly designed hypermarket’s to meet the goals set by their customers. Big C sought experts in bakery, butchery, grocery and seafood from around the globe, each with experience and each with a commitment to excellence. After all, the changes had to be for real. The end result is a team made up of British, Canadian, Philippina and French. Each designated to the newly modernized stores in Big C Extra Rama IV, Big C Extra Pattaya Klang, Big C Pattaya (South Pattaya), Big C Extra Phuket (Jungceylon Patong) and lately to Big C Extra Chiang Mai.
What Makes Big C Butchers Different? That’s the million baht question isn’t it. Well all meat departments aren’t the same, some charge higher prices, some sell cheaper meats. But at Big C you will always find the best quality on sale for less. Whether its grain fed imported beef, fresh pork, Lamb, Chicken or Duck... Big C simply won’t be beaten on Quality, Service or Price.
High quality Meat at everyday low prices. The butchers at Big C prepare the meat on display throughout the day, all day, everyday, to ensure freshness and the very best for their customers. Consistently offering world class quality at the lowest prices. Our qualified Butchery staff are trained to prepare any and every cut, just as you like it. So, in addition to prepared meat, we can also cut your choice of meat to order too.
As we said right at the beginning, the Logo says “Everyday Low Prices” and that’s been Big C’s claim since it first opened in 1993, Today it could just as easily add “Best Quality“ into the logo too.
THE BIG C MEAT CHALLENGE Check out at other stores first. Match like for like prices. Compare Quality and Service. And We, at Big C know we will see you soon.
Big C Butchers Specialist
WHERE CAN YOU FIND THE NEWLY MODERNISED STORES?
Our International teams are working in the newly redesigned hypermarket at the following Branches. Why not give them a try next time you are out shopping : • Big C Extra Rama IV (RamaIV Road) • Big C Extra Phuket (Jungceylon Patong)
• Big C Extra Pattaya (Pattaya Klang) • Big C Extra Chiang Mai
• Big C Pattaya (South Pattaya) For more information : www.bigc.co.th Call Center 1756
Travel
Koh Chang: When we missed the ferry by Zydrune Juceviciute
All those who live or have been to Thailand know how helpful and friendly Thai people can be. Especially at the time you get into unexpected trouble. I’d like to share a story that happened to my partner and I three months ago when we missed a ferry from Koh Chang to the mainland.
Last September I was travelling to the island with my boyfriend for a relaxing 4 days holiday. It was perfect: We stayed in a beautiful, nature surrounded resort, enjoyed delicious Thai cuisine and coconut cocktails, went swimming in a chilly waterfall and hiking in a rainy jungle in the early mornings. I guess, some of you have visited Koh Chang before and know how unique and untouched this place is. However, all good things come to an end and so to our lovely trip. Early afternoon on day four, we had to catch a so called Songthaew taxi to drop us at the Central Point Pier to take the hourly ferry to the mainland. It was the rainy season so often heavy showers would start out of blue during our stay. It started to rain in the middle of our way back too. Due to the road being steep and slippery our driver drove slower and it took more time to reach the pier. We also forgot the exact time of ferry’s departure and ‘oh shoot!” in the end we missed the boat. It sailed away right in front our eyes. There was only one daily bus to Bangkok from Bang Bao Pier and we knew we were about to miss it too. Thankfully, we still had one free day in our reserve before we had to return to our jobs. We called the bus information centre to confirm that our bus tickets could be used the following day and hearing positive news from the operator, we decided to stay one more night in Koh Chang. We were standing at the shore all wet and smiling not knowing what to do next. Nearest White Sand Beach was around fifteen minutes away in a car! There were just a few tourists coming out from the arrived ferry and the Songthaew drivers refused to transport only us back to the city unless we paid extra. Being adventurous, we decided to walk back to the city. Covering our heads with an umbrella from the now hot sun,
22
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
we began walking along the empty road. But regrets came soon when we noticed the first hotel advertisement saying it is located ten kilometres away! My boyfriend made a joke that we could try stopping passing by cars to ask for help and could you believe that, it happened. Just as he raised his hand, suddenly one car popped out of the corner and stopped. A youthful Thai couple saw us walking in the middle of nowhere and offered us a ride. I never thought it would happen. They hardly spoke English and looked shy, however very open offered to help as they listened to our unfortunate story. In a half of an hour we safely reached White Sand Beach area, said our goodbyes filled with gratitude, booked a cosy bungalow, right on the beach, and enjoyed the extra day off. It was a special day, more special than the other three spent on the island. Sometimes misfortune isn’t the worst thing in the world to happen. Life is always filled with small gifts and good people, you just need to see it. As they say “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!”
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
Travel
Laguna Lăng Cô., Danang, Central Vietnam We arrived at Danang airport courtesy of Bangkok Airways and were given a 14 day visa on arrival. “Danang
is the largest city in central Vietnam with a population of roughly one million.” Met by a uniformed young lady with a broad smile we were escorted to a waiting car. The journey to the resort took roughly 1 hour climbing up the mountainside passing through the longest tunnel in SE Asia - 6.3kms on the main north to south highway QL1. We arrived at the Laguna Lăng Cô resort owned by The Banyan Tree Group where 2 resorts nestle side by side to form one of three Laguna estates worldwide. Laguna is a combination of the 5 star plus Banyan Tree, renowned worldwide for its exemplary levels of hospitality, service and accommodation, plus the more family orientated 5 star beach resort Angsana. The Laguna Lăng Cô complex is situated on a 280 hectare site with an 18 hole golf course of which Sir Nick Faldo is ambassador and is fronted
by a 3kms private beach. The 223 apartment Angsana sits on the beach and the 49 lagoon and beach villas of the Banyan Tree sit at the foot of the mountain with the luxury hill villas perched on the hillside. The room in the Angsana was akin to a well equipped and furnished apartment with everything that one would want for a short or long vacation. It has been designed for families - the majority of its rooms come with a swimming pool on the terrace and are luxuriously appointed. Of course being part of the Banyan Tree Group the Angsana has first class spa facilities. On the first night we ate dinner at the Rice Bar & Bowl and enjoyed a selection of Vietnamese specialities. The following evening on the sheltered terrace of Moomba listening to the sound of the surf caressing the beach. Market Place was the breakfast setting and the food at all three facilities was first class. Generally the service, facilities, environment and the ambience were all what you would expect from a
February/March 2017 2017 EXPAT LIFE LIFE in Thailand 24 February/March EXPAT in Thailand
Banyan Tree Group property - beyond expectations. For those wanting an adventurous holiday, besides the 18 hole golf course, the resorts provide a host of water sports - jet ski’s, kayaks, windsurfing and snorkelling, to name but a few, but we chose the quiet life and drank in the serenity that the destination offered. We sampled the spas in both hotels and were pampered as only Banyan Tree could provide. A choice of relaxing and invigorating therapies made us even more chilled than we were before.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
We were lucky to be able to enjoy both resorts during our 5 day stay but as a couple we much enjoyed the sheer luxury, serenity and solitude of the Banyan Tree. Perched on a forested hillside in central Vietnam 50kms outside Danang overlooking the beautiful Chan May bay watching the rain clouds subside. Who had the vision to build a 6 star resort here where the majority of the luxury accommodation is built on stilts or secluded villas in the green and verdant gardens embracing nature? We had room 302 high on the hillside overlooking the bay. It was like waking up to a picture postcard with the beach stretching out before us. Listening to the surf constantly embracing the granite boulders below, the clouds so low you felt you could almost reach them.
“45
“The
population of Vietnam is 90 million - 10M each in Hanoi the cultural and political capital and Ho Chi Minh the economic centre.”
million motorbikes in Vietnam - everywhere you look it seems as if one is targeting you.”
Both resorts offer guests the option of buying the apartment enjoying up to 60 days stay and then renting it out through the company receiving the lions share of its income. Their Sanctuary Club’s Exchange programme allows you to choose from at least 12 other destinations within the group whilst potentially reaping the benefits from the appreciating asset for years to come. We were taken on 3 excursions from the hotel. The first to a local fishing village, I thought to observe, but we were actually taking part! My partner went out in a boat with our guide Hung, who I thank for all the facts that he provided me for this article and the fisherman’s wife in a coracle (a round 1.5 metre bamboo boat coated with tar to waterproof it). and I accompanied the fisherman in a long narrow boat and we laid out the net. The second to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An 80kms away where we toured the ancient town on foot, parts of which date back to the 17th century. The Japanese bridge, old houses, temple, Assembly House and market. It was an hour and a half drive there and back to the old city and it gave us an insight into life in central Vietnam. EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
25
Travel
The third excursion was to the ancient cultural city of Hue 75 minutes and 65kms away. Its vast, 19th century Citadel, surrounded by a moat and thick stone walls encompasses the Imperial City, with palaces and shrines; the Forbidden Purple City, once the emperor’s home; and a replica of the Royal Theatre.
“ Vietnam
is the 3rd largest rice exporter in the world after India and Thailand. The 2nd largest coffee exporter after Brazil and the largest exporter in the world of cashew nuts and peppers.” We enjoyed the time alone in the luxury of our eerie in the sky overlooking the bay. Each time you looked there was something else to see, to focus on, in the ever changing landscape. We swam in the private swimming pool on the terrace and enjoyed the hot tub/Jacuzzi - the rest of humanity seemed so far away. On the last night we were treated to a barbecue cooked on the terrace at our villa. It was raining so we stayed inside but two uniformed staff arrived, set up and proceeded to cook a feast for us and served it to us as we sat at the dining table in our villa. The food
26
February/March 2017
was delicious and the sheer indulgence of having a private chef serve you at the table was a pure delight and something which brought our stay at Banyan Tree to a perfect end. Our stay at Laguna Lăng Cô was over far too quickly. I could become accustomed to the stunning views, the luxurious room and apartments, palatial surroundings and the ever present attentive staff. We checked out the following
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
morning and were chauffeur driven the return trip to the airport in silence as we watched the sights of central Vietnam out of the window. We flew to Danang with Bangkok Airways, Asia’s boutique airline, from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi to Danang and the journey took roughly one hour fourty minutes.` They fly to the destination four times a week as one of the 14 international destinations that they now serve and 10 locations in Thailand. www.bangkokair.com
Angsana Lăng Cô www.angsana.com/en/ap-vietnam-lang-co Banyan Tree Lăng Cô www.banyantree.com/en/ap-vietnam-lang-co Cu Du Village, Loc Vinh Commune Phu Loc District, Thua Thien Hue Province, Vietnam tel: +84 54 3695 800
Travel
Taiwan, here we come! by Netra Ruthaiyanont
Although Taiwan is only a little over three hours by plane from Bangkok, not too many people living here in Thailand think of it as an enticing holiday destination. But after spending five days there recently, we can happily conclude that Taiwan certainly is a place worth visiting. One fine November day, the four of us (Terri Thomas, Terri Alexander, Rose Marie Wanchupela and Netra Ruthaiyanont) flew to Taipei for a short holiday. We didn’t have great plans, just the intention to have a good time. A peek into the history of Taiwan Once we arrived in Taipei, the first item on our itinerary was to visit Dr Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall. It was a good place to get an understanding of Taiwan's history since he was the founding father of this island state of 23 million people. After passing the huge imposing bronze statue of Dr Sun Yat-sen in the hallway, we browsed through the impressive chronology of this eminent man’s life and the revolutions he led. Next was the visit to Memorial Hall of Chiang Kai Shek, former President of Taiwan from 1949 to 1975. Not surprisingly, feng shui (the ancient Chinese art of geomancy) played a role in the design of the building: octagon shaped to symbolise fortune and wealth in Chinese culture. The numbers of steps on the stairway leading to the main hall was 89, which was Mr. Chiang's age at the time of his death.
28
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
Taipei 101
We then got a glimpse of legendary man's personal life at Chiang Kai-Shek Shilin residence, the last home where he lived with his wife Soong Mei-Ling. Madam Chiang, as she was better known in many circles, was a highly influential international figure in public life, but in her private life, she loved to paint; it is her beautiful brushwork that brightens up the rather gloomy aura of the residence.
Dr Sun Yat Sen’s bronze statue at the Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall seems to continue to keep a watchful eye of the welfare of the people of Taiwan
The solemn atmosphere of the residence immediately changed for the better when we silently stepped out into the pleasant and refreshing Chinese and Western style gardens. It was no surprise that this place was the first ecological garden of Taipei City as the gardens are actually more beautiful and better maintained than Taipei's Botanical Gardens. The most popular spot in the residence is Victoria Chapel, a simple but charming little church where the first couple prayed regularly. (We were told Mr Chiang had to convert to Christianity in order to marry Mrs Chiang - which just goes to show the power of women and religion). Today, the church still serves as a popular venue for romantic wedding photos. View from above Continuing to play our tourist roles, the four of us made our way to the city’s most well known landmark, Taipei 101 Tower, to get a panoramic view of the city.
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
A crowded elevator took us up to the 89th floor in a matter of seconds. The ride was so quick that the elevator operator barely had time to finish her introduction of the tower, which she recounted in at least three languages. Originally known as the Taipei Financial Centre, the Taipei 101 Tower, with its 101 above ground floors and five basement levels, was once the tallest tower in the world until 2010 when it was surpassed by Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Although the skies were a bit hazy during the time we were there, the view of the city was nonetheless breathtaking. Taipei is certainly a mature, crowded city with its fair share of traffic jams. Chinese treasures The highlight of our tour was the National Palace Museum. The remarkable history of the museum began as far back as 1925 in the Forbidden City in Beijing on mainland China. In 1933, the museum collection was moved to southwest China to avoid being destroyed by the impending invasion of Japan. Then in 1948, when the civil war between the Nationalist government and Communists intensified, 600,000 objects of the collection were relocated to Taiwan by the then government. Today, the National Museum boasts more that 690,000 objects, making it one of the most extensive art and cultural collections in the world. The Palace Museum has something of interest for everyone: bronzes, Chinese jade through the ages, ceramics, painting and calligraphy, and pottery, amongst others. The four of us explored separately according to our interest in specific collections and came together to share numerous photographs, most of them widely different from one another. All the displays were amazing, unique and striking in their own way. We could have stayed at the museum all day but a more important activity came up - lunch! The aborigine symbol for “we are family”
The auspicious Jadeite Cabbage
Beautifully glazed vases
Stunning ceramics EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
29
Travel
Lunch was a delicious assortment of Chinese dishes. The saying “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” is certainly true when it comes to “Xiao long bao”, Chinese dumplings filled with soup and other delicious ingredients. And of course, we enjoyed the hot and spicy tofu dish that leaves one’s lips numb and puckered because of the chilli oil. Up to the mountains Also on our agenda was the trip to Hua Lian, which was a two hour train ride from Taipei, to tour the famous Taroko Gorge. After we arrived in Hua Lian, we stopped at a quaint little hotel for a typical aborigine lunch. We sipped millet wine from tiny boar shaped cups, and enjoyed our meal which included wild vegetable soup, wild boar skin salad and glutinous rice in bamboo tubes. Taiwanese aborigines make up about 2% of the country’s population and about 70% of them are Christian. We couldn’t help chuckling when we saw their version of a Christmas tree as it was quite unique looking. We left the restaurant with full stomachs and droopy eyes and arrived at Taroko National Park. A favourite but dangerous place for hikers, the authorities give detailed travel safety instructions on how to prepare for hiking - watch out for falling rocks and wild animals, wear a hard hat, good shoes and bring along food and drink. However, since no one in our group was an ardent hiker, we drove around and enjoyed the picturesque scenery of striking rocks and gushing stream waters, occasionally stopping to take photos in the midst of hundreds of noisy tourists waving their selfie sticks. We stayed overnight in this peaceful mountainous county and headed back to Taipei the next day. Our last night in Taipei was spent having dinner at the top of Mount Yang Ming and getting a spectacular night view of the bustling city. On the fifth day, our Taiwan excursion ultimately came to an end and we headed back to Bangkok, slightly exhausted but filled with good memories and a better understanding of this unique country.
30
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
Chang Chun Shrine at Takoro Gorge
Netra Ruthaiyanont is currently the development director at Rose Marie Academy, a internationally oriented PreK 12 school on the Nichada Thani Estate. She holds a BA in Communications from Stanford University, California, USA and a MS in Corporate Public Relations from Boston University, Massachusetts, USA. She is interested to write about the challenging lives of women, education and travel.
Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall
Education
Meet the Headteacher
Andrew Harrison St Andrews Green Valley
Where are you from? Originally I am from the UK where I was educated and initially worked in education before pursuing a career overseas which now spans over 25 years, four countries and two continents: Africa and Asia. How has that influenced you as an educator? My home country had a considerable influence on me as an educator both in a positive and at times in a less positive manner. The UK education system still has many strengths and remains highly regarded around the globe. Unfortunately, it has also suffered at times from far too much government influence, which occasionally has been more aimed at winning votes and reducing costs, rather than providing the education our students need and deserve. As a student in the UK I was lucky enough to attend a forward thinking school it had a strong community base, a passionate sporting tradition and was broadminded enough
32
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
to realise that development of a student’s character was equally as important as academic results. This has remained the foundation stone of what I wish to see at the heart of our school. Academic results are clearly an important passport but on their own they are no guarantee of success. It is the character that we develop within our young people which allows this passport to be fully utilised. What I am very confident about, is how my international experiences continue to shape my view on what is required in a global education. We strive to provide our students with opportunities and experiences that will help them to succeed. What attracted you to teaching in the first place? My parents would argue that I was probably born a teacher. They can recount many stories even in my early childhood, where I would thrive on playing and socialising with other children and was determined for us all to achieve.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
I think I started to realise teaching might be my calling, when I started to captain sports teams at a young age. Here, I found I thoroughly enjoyed trying to motivate others as well as myself, towards a common goal. As time went on and I developed greater knowledge of each sport or a skill, then I can remember gaining amazing satisfaction from helping others to improve. As I became increasingly involved in coaching, then teaching became a very obvious choice to take that passion and make it into my career path. Since embarking on this route the drive, passion and enjoyment has never faded. I still get as much enjoyment today as I ever have, when I see a child learn a new skill, or gain an opportunity that could make a significant difference in their lives. I still regard teaching as a privilege and one of the most important professions in the world. If one thing I can do, or the school can provide, can shape a child’s outlook or opportunities in life, then I can’t think of any greater reward than this. When did you become a Headteacher? Looking back I became a Headteacher at quite a young age. After working for ten years in various management positions in the UK and internationally in Africa and Asia, at the age of 34, I was asked to take on the role of Acting Headteacher (CEO) at one of the largest International Schools in East Africa – IST in Tanzania. This was a significant challenge with a school spread across three sites, an active board, a very diverse parent body and numerous building plans on the table. This leadership experience was invaluable and allowed me to continue along this career path and subsequently be appointed as Headteacher at St Andrews International School, Green Valley. How long have you been at St Andrews International School? I have had the privilege of being Headteacher at St Andrews International School for 12 years now. In Headteacher terms that is a very long time, when the worldwide average tenure is quoted at just 2.2 years! Within the Federation of British International School in Asia (FOBISIA) I am now the third longest serving head out of all 58 schools. Personally I can’t understand how schools
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
are able to progress if the leadership changes so often, as it causes so much disruption and lack of continuity. St Andrews has seen many changes and developments in my time and without the stability of our teachers and management, I think these would have been much harder to achieve or possibly not achieved at all. Together with the whole St Andrews community, I was so proud when the school was awarded the highest level of accreditation by CfBT - the Gold Standard with every area graded as ‘Outstanding’. This coincided with us maintaining the highest IGCSE results in the area and IB Diploma results that match the top schools in Thailand. That said, we all know we still have so much to do to remain relevant to our students and maintain the high standards we have set ourselves. Where were you before? As an educationalist who has experienced so many varied and different cultures whilst teaching overseas I feel very fortunate to be able to capitalise on all of these aspects and bring the positive elements of each cultural context to my current position. Each school has been incredibly diverse: from: basic resourcing and power issues at Sandford English Community School in Ethiopia; to the demands of city living and the fast paced academic expectations at Bangkok Patana School, and the challenges of designing effective systems and new buildings at the International School of Tanganyika in Tanzania. What attracted you to the school? St Andrews has a stunning location, nestled in amongst golf courses and for an international school it has a unique learning environment. As soon as I entered the school, I was immediately struck by the beautiful, green campus and the friendly, open community feel of the school. When I came
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
33
Education
for an interview the school was relatively small, but I could envisage the huge potential and the challenge of expanding this school to become the leading school in the area. This factor, together with St Andrew being an excellent fit for my family, were the major elements in deciding to take on the position of Headteacher. What do you consider has been your greatest success? The school and community have achieved so many great successes. I would say my most influential role in this has been recruiting and establishing a close knit and talented team of teachers, who alongside the students make this school the success it is today. The international job market for teachers is highly competitive. Thailand as a country is a natural draw for many and Green Valley offers something unique on top of that, so we receive many hundreds of applications every year, even though our vacancies and turnover are so low. Attracting high quality teachers who inspire, care and go the extra distance for every student in school is essential to create the supportive and happy learning environment that our students enjoy and thrive in. What is your leadership style? To be a successful leader I believe you have to be passionate about what you do and create a culture of high
expectations, but at the same time provide support for staff to take risks and push the boundaries in pursuit of excellent learning. I have always tried to create an open leadership style where teachers feel valued and acknowledged for their achievements, but also accountable. Whilst we should be extremely proud of our impressive accomplishments at St Andrews, I am never one to sit back as I think it is essential for a successful leader to be constantly striving to improve the school on a day-to-day basis and be energised to achieve new heights.
Your philosophy What are the benefits of an international education? In an increasingly challenging global society, I believe that a quality international education allows our students the greatest opportunity for success in making the world a better, safer place for their futures. The cultural experiences, together with the individualised learning our students receive, allow them to truly develop into strong characters where they have the motivation, self-esteem and social skills that will allow them to succeed. What are the challenges and how do you address them? The greatest challenge for any education system is not truly knowing what the future will bring for our students; the types of jobs our students will take on and the skill set required for an ever developing society. Our job is to prepare them to be as broad and balanced as possible so that they are able to adapt, compete and be successful in their chosen careers. The attributes at the heart of our school’s vision of developing independent, confident, lifelong learners supports this challenge and is evident in the whole educational process at St Andrews. Do you have a personal philosophy? ‘Achieving more than you ever thought possible’ has always been my mantra – St Andrews Green Valley is a perfect example of this. Twelve years ago it was only 160 students without a track record and now today we have students achieving the highest IB diploma point score in the world and going off to leading universities. At the same time, we challenge and inspire our students to grow in all aspects
34
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
St. Andrews
BIGGER & BETTER With 4 world-class schools in Thailand offering the English National Curriculum, IGCSE and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, St. Andrews International Schools offer your child a world of opportunity in education.
4 Convenient Locations Dusit Campus
Sukhumvit 107
Sathorn
Green Valley
Ages 2 - 11 253/1 Sawankhaloke Road, Dusit, Bangkok 10300
Ages 2 - 18 7 Sukhumvit 107 Road, Bangna, Bangkok 10260
Ages 2 - 11 9 Sathorn Soi 4, North Sathorn, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500
Ages 2 - 18 Moo 7, Banchang-Makham Koo Road, Banchang, Rayong 21130
Tel: +66 (0) 2668 6231 E: dusit@standrews-schools.com W: www.standrewsdusit.com
Tel: +66 (0) 2393 3883 E: sukhumvit@standrews-schools.com W: www.standrewssukhumvit.com
Tel: +66 (0) 2632 1995 E: sathorn@standrews-schools.com W: www.standrewssathorn.com
Tel: +66 (0) 3803 0701 E: greenvalley@standrews-schools.com W: www.standrewsgreenvalley.com
St. Andrews International School Dusit• Sukhumvit 107 • Sathorn • Green Valley
Book your personal tour www.standrews-schools.com
Education
and give them opportunities to shine whether it is battling it out on the sportsfield, overcoming nerves to take on the lead role in a drama production, rising to the challenge of learning a new instrument or taking on leadership roles within our community. What have been the biggest challenges in Thailand? Of all the countries I have worked in, I would confidently say that Thailand is one of the most supportive in terms of education. Clearly, there are challenges but when working in a country that values education and the international education sector, many of those challenges are relatively easy to overcome. On a local level one of our biggest challenges is building upon and celebrating the incredible diversity of our students and the communities and countries they come from. There is so much for us to learn from others and to appreciate their different outlooks on life. Tell us about the school in general St Andrews Green Valley is a world class school for our global family of 2 - 18 year old children. The environment at St Andrews is uniquely stimulating, focusing on the individual needs of each child within a close, supportive community located in the beautiful surroundings of Green Valley near Pattaya and Rayong. Our unique learning, sporting and recreational facilities are magnificent, and teaching of the arts is also superbly supported. Our curriculum is aligned with the English National Curriculum within the inquiry based International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, offering the best of international learning.
36
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
From the outset – the Early Years and Primary School follow the IB Primary Years Programme up to Secondary School children are taught to become competent learners within their individual ability, embracing the prime areas of learning whilst developing personally, socially and emotionally. In Secondary Year 10 and 11 students complete IGCSEs, moving on to the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Years 12 and 13 to prepare them for the challenges of further education. Our broad and balanced Secondary curriculum encourages students to take an important role in their own education. The parents’ relationship with the school is pivotal to each child’s success and happiness at St Andrews. We have a very active Parent Teacher Group and a Parent Café, where new expats receive a warm welcome and friendly advice in good measure. We are also fortunate to have the Cognita Education group as a solid backbone for our school, and through Cognita, a global school network of over 60 schools in 7 countries, we are able to make connections with Chile, Brazil, Spain, Vietnam, Singapore and Hong Kong. How do you see the future of education in Thailand? The future of education is very bright in Thailand as the government prioritises it highly and Asia is becoming an increasingly important hub in the global market. Thailand was one of the first countries in Asia to fully embrace international education and in particular to make it available to host country students back in the 1990s. I fully expect Thailand to remain a forerunner in the Asian education stakes.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
APPLY NOW FOR KIS FULL IB DIPLOMA SCHOLARSHIPS AND FULL SCHOLARSHIPS FOR GRADE 4 AND UP As a full IB World School, KIS has a history of excellent results on the IB Diploma. Our graduates are accepted by top ranked universities around the world, often with a university scholarship.
KIS scholarship students achieve great IB Diploma results and go to excellent universities.
KIS is offering one full IB Diploma scholarship, one full scholarship for Grade 4 and up and partial scholarships for all programmes to inspire individuals to be successful in life. Apply now if you would like to be considered for an academic scholarship at KIS for 2017-2018 and onwards. For more information or to apply go to www.kis.ac.th or email admissions@kis.ac.th.
Tel: +66 (0) 2274 3444 Email: admissions@kis.ac.th
nspiring ndividuals
Education
Why international education matters more than ever by Jared Kuruzovich
With its turmoil, uncertainty and polarised conflicts, 2016 will be remembered as a year that sparked dramatic changes in societies across the globe. Political upheaval across much of Europe and the Americas anticipated Brexit, shocking even those of us who had become accustomed to an anti globalised sentiment in our home countries. Yet the surprising decision in the UK proved to be just the beginning as Donald Trump defied almost all expectations by rising to power in the US. Following in the footsteps of these radical changes, a decidedly nationalistic, isolationist movement is growing, one that raises troubling concerns about the world our children will inherit.
Though this trend is undoubtedly complex, at least one key factor has played a significant part: the failure of education systems to adapt to the needs of a new generation. The focus in public school systems, whether in the US, UK or elsewhere, is still too often on traditional academic subjects and vocational education. Though this learning still holds great value, particularly in certain regions, it also fails to address how the world has changed over the past several decades. Our grandparents and parents grew up in a time in which learning a trade guaranteed a steady
38
February/March 2017
job and income to support one's family. They experienced a world in which travelling to another country was still exotic, and a trip to the local store most often meant seeing others who shared the same skin colour or at least a similar background. Our children are growing up in a very different context. Even in rural communities, immigrants seek new opportunities, trade creates a need for multilingual and multicultural communication, and tourism draws a wide range of diverse visitors. Stepping outside the doors of their homes, and sometimes even in their own families,
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
children are exposed to a spectrum of languages, cultures and perspectives. Schools have struggled to define the learning required to account for these changes, and international education has taken the lead in constructing viable models that provide both academic and values based learning. Despite representing numerous nations, curricula and approaches, virtually every institution within international education embraces diversity, multiculturalism and global citizenship. These core principles shape the learning that takes place and challenge students to consider views and opinions that differ from their own. While international schools encourage pride in one's heritage and culture, they also do so in the context of an global community founded on peaceful dialogue and cooperation. This simple yet powerful approach often fosters unique school cultures, particularly in the case of larger institutions, that serve as tangible examples of how radically diverse people can live and work together despite their differences. It stands in stark contrast to the isolationist claim that a violent clash of philosophies must always be inevitable.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
“Our children are growing up in a very different context.� In this model, being able to effectively communicate and cooperate with a wide range of people is equally, if not more, important than technical knowledge and skills. As the next generation reaches adulthood, their ability to function in this manner will more often than not determine their success in the future. This is not mere hyperbole. Annual survey research by the National Association of Colleges and Employers in the US and the UK Commission for Employment and Skills has consistently demonstrated that universities and employers more highly value these soft skills as well. Regardless of industry, an increasing demand has grown for competent, conscientious adults who can flourish within multicultural environments. Globalisation is not going away, technology will not regress and we can no longer afford to close the borders of our nations, hiding away behind a literal or figurative wall. For good or ill, the 21st century is shaping into a landscape in which we will all increasingly interact with others who do not share our values and experiences. Far from being a trend, international education offers children the foundation they need to develop into the global citizens who can collectively shift us toward a more peaceful, equitable world.
What can I do as a parent? Many in the expatriate community have the opportunity to enrol their children in international schools, helping shape them into globally minded learners. Yet every parent can also help foster these traits at home through a few simple strategies. Question Take every opportunity to ask your child to consider other viewpoints, even if they differ from your own. By doing so you help them to develop the ability to think critically and find value in diverse perspectives. Challenge Push your child to try new things outside of their comfort zone. Whether in the form of music, travel, service or other opportunities, this exposes them to people they may otherwise not interact with in their daily life. Encourage Focus on cooperation and the process of learning rather than the outcome. Offer praise for the attitude and effort that your child puts into working with others and understanding concepts as opposed to grades or awards. Guide Though it's common to want to be a friend to your child, it's more important to be a parent when necessary. Work with your child to establish expectations for treating others with respect and empathy ‌ and enforce those expectations.
Jared Kuruzovich is the Director of Communications at NIST International School in Bangkok. After growing up in rural Wisconsin, he joined the expatriate community in 2005 and has lived in Thailand since 2008. Connect with him at www.kuruzovich.com.
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
39
Education
FairNIST Coffee Co. In 2013 NIST students made their first trip to the village of Maeramit in Omgoi district, a remote part of Chiang Mai province, as a part of their service learning requirements. That single visit sparked a relationship that has continued to this day. The efforts of 2Develop, the student-led service group, to work alongside the villagers in meeting several development goals has been a key part of service learning at NIST. Yet their impact has extended much further and inspired other students to sustain the relationship with Maeramit in creative ways. In exploring ways to meet one of the goals, increasing agricultural opportunities, our students launched FairNIST, a social enterprise that has rapidly grown over the past year. Identifying coffee bean production as a sustainable opportunity for the region, the group worked with the locals to develop a full supply chain that now provides coffee for NIST, other schools and shops around Bangkok. By strengthening their partnership with local farmers in Maeramit village, Omgoi and Chiang Mai, as well as the local coffee industry here in Bangkok through roasters, cafĂŠs and suppliers, FairNIST has been able to establish itself as an ethical and successful enterprise. Throughout 2016 they built on that success of further testing and marketing their coffee on campus, where it is now available for purchase in pre-ground form and as whole roasted beans. They also broadened their scope of operations. By inviting other groups interested in setting up similar initiatives at their own schools, FairNIST proved to be not only an innovator, but a leader among their peers. Through sharing the knowledge and experience gained from developing this project and building key partnerships, they achieved something remarkable for students: a fully operational, non-profit company that has enriched the wider community.
40
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
FAMILY and RELATIONSHIPS
A happy mommy happy in business by Meghan Lynch
I met Thatchaporn Chumreansat (Auy) in a cafe in Bearing. She had her two year old daughter with her and a man, a friend of her’s named Nat Khanpraderm. Who, I come to find out was the one to push her into a talent she never saw herself and helped guide her and make it into a reality. You see, Auy after university worked at Mahidol University as a civil engineer. Her passion, design. She worked there for two years until she got pregnant. Her best friend Nat and her would talk about what she could do, what her options were to create a life and an income for her unborn child. His suggestion was to start drawing and creating baby clothes. He knew her talent as an artist was there, he knew his best friend from middle school had something to share.
Her Instagram posts, result in an interested buyers contacting her through Instagram, her mobile phone or LINE. That person could be a friend looking for a monogramed bib or a dress for their dear one for their first birthday party, they can easily get in contact with Auy. She has made Mommy and Me dresses, specialty bibs and baptism dresses that a mother would only dream of and worry she may not find in Thailand. . Auy buys only organic fabric, chemical free from the USA and Japan. She has many items in stock but if there is one that is not, or you have a custom order it may take 5-7 days until it is completed. Believe me it is well worth the wait! Her signature piece is her butterfly headband and her best seller, which also happens to be the item she enjoys creating the most. As her LINE ID says, she is a Happy Mommy and Happy In Business. Grateful to be able to support her daughter while doing what she loves and being able to see that passion on children from all over Thailand and soon she hopes, the world.
The birth of her daughter Ang Pao has helped make Organica what it is today. She uses her sweet daughter as her inspiration for new ideas. A young 10 month old company, she has created a line of vintage inspired dresses, headpieces, hats and well, if you have a request, she’ll make that for you too. What’s remarkable about Organica is the business is seen solely through Instagram. No official website, no Facebook page. No little shop on a small soi, no corner booth at a mall. She has gotten her line of gorgeous, well made and high end fabric sold through her Instagram account. It’s not that hard, when Thailand has the most users and followers of Instagram than any other country in the world. Lucky for Auy, I say.
42
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
Open House 210x295.pdf 1 16-Dec-16 10:42:12 AM
Education
Harvard College in Asia Programme 2017 Conference: Finding solutions to global health issues by Lynn Ocharoenchai
Each year, Harvard sends 12 of their finest delegates across Asia to discuss ongoing concerns and current issues. This year, the students return again to Bangkok for a week long journey to tackle the theme of “Mind, body, and society: Global health challenges of the 21st century” at Chulalongkorn University. You, too, can take part in overcoming the obstacles. The Harvard College in Asia programme, or more commonly known as HCAP, is a non profit organisation run by students at Harvard College. Acting as a platform for academic, cultural, and social exchange between future pioneers of the United States and Asia, HCAP has established a long term relationship between Harvard and its eight partnering institutes in Bangkok, Dubai, Hong Kong, Istanbul, Mumbai, Seoul, Singapore and Tokyo
44
February/March 2017
through a series of conferences and events. In January, around 64 selected candidates from Asian countries are invited to attend the annual conference held at Harvard to discuss and explore specific themes that bear a threat to our global society. Following in March, Harvard students then attend the conferences held by partnering universities in order to create special and holistic experiences, not only to address the topic issues, but also to engage in an
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
exchange in perspective and ideas. After constant reports of health crises and epidemics, such as the spread of Ebola from West Africa, the debate around disease control in European refugee camps, and the controversy surrounding mental health and US gun control laws, along with recurrent concerns of overpopulation, poverty, and obesity, this year’s theme aims to bring attention to finding alternatives to conventional fixes. To expand benefits beyond members of HCAP, the public is welcome to attend the seminar on March 13 - 17 and join the discussion. Throughout the one week conference, talks and discussions will be carried out by experts, professors, doctors, and students of each field. This year’s conference will highlight how each one of us is impacted by the communities that we live in, and the way healthcare affects each community differently. Throughout the week, guest speakers will be giving out unique tips, knowledge, and insight that can be
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
useful to your daily lifestyle and health. The sessions range from keynotes about “Global pandemics” (Monday 13 March, 5 - 7pm) and “Exploring global medicine trends: Where East meets West” (Thursday 16 March, 10 - 12pm) to panel discussions on “Understanding Sexual Violence: Individual, Socialisation and Restoration” (Friday 17 March, 10 - 12pm). Following, there will be a Q&A session (Friday 17 March, 4 - 6pm) for the audience to share with Harvard students their thoughts and ask unanswered questions of all sorts. Guest speakers include Jaded Chouwilai, Director of Women and Men Progressive Movement Foundation, Dr Krit Pongpirul, Adjunct Faculty of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Research Advisor of Bumrungrad International Hospital, Assistant Professor Dr Panrapee Suttiwan, Child Psychologist and
Board of Director of the Health Science Group of Chulalongkorn Unviersity, and Dr Panita Suavansri, Lecturer and Counsellor at Chulalongkorn University. All sessions will be held at the Blackbox (Petralai) Theatre on the 14th
floor of the Mahitaladhibesra Building at the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy of Chulalongkorn University. Participants can also reach the venue by MRT Sam Yan, using the exit to Chamchuri Square.
For further information, please visit the HCAP Bangkok Facebook page at www.facebook.com/HCAPBangkok or contact us via info.hcap.chula@gmail.com.
BRIGHTON COLLEGE BANGKOK BRIGHTON COLLEGE BANGKOK
Our Prep School allows pupils to be themselves, be happy, be excellent. Tatler UK
To visit us, please contact our Admissions Team: +66 (0)2 136 7898 admissions@brightoncollegebangkok.com BrightonCollegeBangkok.com Krungthep Kreetha 15/1, Srinakarin-Rama 9 Huamak, Bangkok, 10240
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL BANGKOK
Britain’s number one* co-educational school opens its doors for children up to 14 years. *The Sunday Times, 2016 Brighton College Bangkok’s Prep School will give every pupil a full and exciting school experience, the opportunity to achieve more than they thought possible and to develop the intrinsic motivation required to really ‘reach for the stars’. We aim to deliver outstanding learning opportunities through excellent and innovative teaching, where pupils are encouraged to become reflective learners who can create and develop their own targets. Beyond the classroom, Prep School pupils will be encouraged to explore new disciplines, skills and interests, to give everything a try, and, in doing so, learn to take risks and also to risk failure. It is our belief that we are enabling children to find their passions and those ‘things’ that really makes them tick. This passion will thereafter feed into everything else that they excellent training for our pupils, teaching them the do. Most importantly, at Brighton College Prep School, we fundamentals of exam technique and revision skills while ensure that pupils are able to do all of this, knowing that providing a strong foundation for Senior School. they are in a safe, secure and friendly environment.
Throughout the Prep School our innovative curriculum
Children join the Brighton College Bangkok Prep School in includes a strong emphasis on wellbeing, which is woven Year 4 where they will continue to have a Class Teacher for into all aspects of school life. It feeds into every single the majority of their subjects. When they reach Year 5 subject we teach and, as such, underpins all we do. pupils are ready for something different and, unlike many Wellbeing at Brighton College focuses on developing
other schools, specialist teaching is introduced across constructive, healthy and mindful habits, which in turn lead the curriculum. Children in Year 5 are at the right age to to creative thinking, resilience, empathy and respect. really benefit from this; their thirst for knowledge and love Our pupils will be busy; we want them to find out what they of learning makes them ready for the challenge. An really enjoy doing and where their natural talents lie. They increased level of learning is evident across all subjects as will be encouraged to explore new disciplines, to give children are stretched and challenged by teachers who are everything a try, to take risks and to know how it feels to enthusiastic and extremely knowledgeable about their conquer challenges. They learn to prioritise and to manage chosen subjects.
their
time
while
maximising
their
own
personal
Also unique to the Prep School system is that, in Year 7, achievement in the classroom. instead of becoming the youngest in the Senior School, Our expectations are high but children rise to these pupils begin two years at the top of the Prep School. They challenges and thrive on the opportunities that they are become young leaders and role models, gaining awarded. We will celebrate all their successes, big and enormously from this opportunity. The academic challenge small, as our pupils grow and develop into motivated, continues as pupils prepare for their first external compassionate and confident young people. examinations and sit the Common Entrance (set by the Independent Schools Examination Board, UK). This is
www.BrightonCollegeBangkok.com
A Real Community One of the most endearing and noticeable features of St Stephen’s is that there is always a warm welcome for parents of children at the school. At the beginning of the school day parents are not obliged to drop their children off at the school gate. Some do, but many park their cars and walk their children into school where they spend time together; up to an hour, either in the school canteen or in the play areas. Some parents talk to teachers as children enter classrooms and a number join ‘Flag Raising’ where the whole
school gathers each day to sing the national anthem. Groups of parents then congregate in the school reception area, catching up on news, before eventually heading off for a late breakfast or a visit to a local sports centre. This is a normal morning at St Stephen’s, very much a social occasion for many. The process is repeated in the afternoon, but in reverse, with many parents lingering, long after the end of the normal school day, whilst their children enjoy some additional playtime with their friends.
February 28: Early Years (age 2-5) March 8: Primary and Secondary (age 6-18) For reservations tel. 02 513 0270 Ext. 234 48
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
It is, though, not just at the beginning and end of the day when mums and dads can be seen in large numbers at the school. Parents are encouraged to come into school on a regular basis and involve themselves in their child’s learning. This can be through the regular curriculum meetings, where advice is given as to how they can support their children at home, or to watch their children at weekly assemblies, sports events or larger school productions. Parents also see the result of their children’s learning every half term when units of work are finished and they are invited to the school so that their children can demonstrate what they have learned. These ‘exit points’ are a great way of enabling parents to see their children’s progress and they are very well attended. “This, apparent, open house policy is quite deliberate on the part of the school” says Principal, John Rolfe. “Education is a partnership between parents, teachers and students and it works best when everyone knows what is going on. Parental presence in the school is, at times, significant, but not intrusive; parents trust us to educate their children, but they are keen for knowledge about their children’s learning, and that is what we give them. Everyone is happy; it is a real community”. For more information tel. 02 513 0270 email: info@sis.edu or website: www.sis.edu/bangkok
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
With clean air and lower temperatures all year round, beautiful scenery, and, of course, no traffic jams, St Stephen’s International School, Khao Yai campus, is the perfect location for boarding and day students. Staff, students and parents all enjoy the healthy lifestyle that is offered in the mountains of Khao Yai. The school sits on a 25 acre site, with the following facilities available: swimming pool, tennis courts, full sized football pitch, basketball courts and access to a 9 hole golf course. Khao Yai, while removed from the hustle and bustle of city life, is surrounded by fantastic restaurants, world class golf courses, and is close to Khao Yai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For those who still yearn for the city life, Bangkok is only two hours drive away, and bustling Korat city an hour away. If you are interested in your child having access to quality education in a clean and healthy environment, please contact our Admissions Officer, or pay us a visit. Contact our Admissions Officer at tel. 0931 262 444 or email: admissions_ky@sis.edu or website: www.sis.edu/khaoyai
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
49
FEATURES
What can we learn from history? by Julian Brosnahan, History Curriculum Coordinator, Bangkok Patana School
As a history teacher, I have often asked my students “What can we learn from history?” Frequently, their answers are that “we learn mistakes from history so that we do not repeat them”. This has certainly been the case at times. US foreign policy after World War II was all about containment of what President Truman saw as the Soviet threat. So, whilst the US took an isolationist view in the 1930s, by the 1940s they had learned from the mistakes of appeasement and isolationism. Instead of remaining aloof, the US reacted in 1948 with the Marshall Plan’s $17 billion of aid
50
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
to Western Europe. The US aimed to prevent another world depression, having witnessed the rise of the Nazis as a result of the collapse of the world economy in the 1930s. However, to say that events from history should always serve as a guide for the future is problematic. In the 1960s in Vietnam, the US applied those same lessons of the 1930s. As with the Soviets in Europe, they felt they needed to intervene. So, Ho Chi Minh became Hitler and South Vietnam the line in the sand (or jungle) which the US would “defend”. This analysis did not take into account the different conditions in South East Asia and, as a consequence, millions of people were affected by a vast folly. Perhaps the real lesson that history teaches us is that we should never fail to be surprised by the ability of people to do stupid things but then also to forgive, rebuild, to cope and to hope. It would have seemed unthinkable to a generation raised on images of the Vietnam War that Vietnam would one day be a major tourist destination and indeed a strong ‘friend’ of the US. Last summer, I was fortunate enough to travel through the Balkans region, formerly Yugoslavia but now seven
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
independent countries. The history of distant conflicts and more recent ones is everywhere in these stunning locations. Game of Thrones may be filmed in Croatia but it is the ghosts of other real life monsters that still haunt the region. I have always wanted to stand on the spot where Franz Ferdinand was shot; the shots that sparked World War I. It was an amazing moment, but the bullet ridden buildings still scarred by the 1990s civil war were equally moving. The way in which Croatians, Serbs and Bosnians interacted showed me that we can learn from history. There are still tensions at times but it is hard to imagine a return of armed militia to replace the armies of tourists. Calls by some to make their country great again fail to note the irony in such a statement. What exactly was great? Were the ‘great days’ great for everybody? Some politicians try to use a glorified version of history to inspire patriotism. This is not the job of history. History should teach us that tolerance and understanding of those from different places, who speak different languages and have different beliefs is the key to our survival. The night before he was shot Martin Luther King Junior gave his ‘mountain top’ speech. In that speech, he declared that “It is no longer a choice between violence and nonviolence in this world but non-violence or non-existence.” However, it is another of his quotes that is my favourite: “I want to be the white man’s brother, not the white man’s brother in law.” Inclusion and not exclusion is the key to our survival. In 2013 and 2014, I organised history visits with students to Beijing and Moscow. These trips underscored to me the amazing capacity of students to relate their classroom learning to the world around them. Their excitement at touring Tiananmen Square and humility at the tomb of the Unknown
Soldier in Moscow clearly showed their attributes as global citizens. To be excited, respectful and interested in different cultures, peoples and history is what it is to truly be a global citizen. However, along with such opportunities comes great responsibility. In their expat lives, our students may think it is normal to travel the globe but really, it isn’t. As they move on in life, they will discover that not everyone has travelled to exotic locations and not everyone understands the importance of thinking globally and respecting other cultures. It will be their job to teach others. In history, students learn about the danger of docility in the face of those who want to transfer blame onto innocents. They learn that there are different sides to a story. In our history classes, students learn the importance of argument. They learn the importance of debate and the danger of demagogues who are willing to label whole groups of people as evil. These are indeed some of the key lessons to learn from history and ones that students will take with them for life.
Education
Digital learning in the primary school
by Peter Howe Leader of Learning, ICT, and Brian Taylor, Assistant Principal, Cross Campus Curriculum Technology Integrator, Bangkok Patana School
The digital ecosystem is transforming learning in our schools, but have we really considered the significance of technology as a tool for learning, both in school and our daily lives? Building positive digital citizens What is the best way to learn to drive a car? From a textbook? Watching a YouTube video? Or getting behind the wheel with a driving instructor giving you real time feedback in a controlled environment? Information Communication Technology (ICT) is learning how to drive the car, the driving instructor is the ICT teacher. After we learn to drive we ask where do you want to go? The possibilities are endless, and with all/most of them, the technology (car) is merely a (transformative) means to an end - simply a tool. As educators and parents, we need to continually set our sights on the destination of the car; the journey of learning, rather than focusing too much on the potholes or dangers of the road.
“In
life, we all make mistakes. School is a place to make mistakes and learn from them. FAIL is simply a First Attempt In Learning.”
The debate on whether we bring technology into our classrooms remains divisive. The research and advice is continually changing. For example, The American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) recently changed their recommendations on the amount of screentime it suggests for a child under two. What is certain is that technology is now an integral part of our and our children’s daily lives, and that our students will be digital citizens for the rest of their lives. An integral part of our role has always been to guide our students towards responsible citizenship. By introducing technology into our classrooms we can better help our students become responsible digital citizens. We can address cyberbullying and build a sense of online community so that our students understand that hurtful words online are just as nasty as words said aloud. We can increase our students’ ability to think critically by teaching them how to differentiate between reliable and unreliable websites. We can help our students stay safe by educating them about the dangers of trusting people they chat with online, or the information they send to one another over the internet. By bringing this technology into our classrooms we can help our students learn the best and most responsible way to use it, to become better and lifelong digital citizens. Laptops for Learning in Year 6 In some schools, students a certain age and above each have their own laptop which they bring to school. At Bangkok Patana School, the Laptop for Learning scheme (1:1 laptops) has been in place in the secondary school since August 2011. This year, the programme
52
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
was extended into Year 6 and we are beginning to see the positive impact in many areas of learning already. Year 6 students and teachers have embraced the scheme and already the benefits are becoming clear. “Now we have all the devices registered on the school network, with software and virus protection installed, the Laptops for Learning scheme in Year 6 has really come alive. The students managing their own devices saves time, improves understanding and prepares them for secondary school in the familiar and safe environment of their primary class,” said a Year 6 teacher. The class teachers are able to make literacy, numeracy and connected learning more exciting and engaging. Keeping up to date with the constant redefinition of ICT in modern life and linking this with students’ learning whilst accessing cutting edge technology, software and resources are all benefits of the introduction of the scheme. Helping the students embrace the excitement whilst tempering the potential addictive and immersive nature of the digital world are all very important. It also provides a vehicle to promote an increased awareness and understanding of good digital citizenship, one of the most important areas of study. “I believe the students’ use of their own laptops, where it will enhance learning, is invaluable. It prepares them for further study and allows them to manage and learn with the tool that will almost certainly play a large role in their future lives,” said the Year 6 teacher. Use of their own laptops promotes independence and provides even more opportunities for students to choose the direction of and co-construct their learning. The development of the school VLE (Virtual Learning Environment) Firefly also increases the benefit of having 1:1 laptops. The students are beginning to create their own online presence with the introduction of an E-Portfolio: an electronic copy of learning evidence and reflections that can be shared and viewed by the student, their teachers and their parents. This portfolio will potentially be taken with the students as they move up through the school showing their progression, thoughts and reflections on all areas of learning. The best thing about the E-Portfolio scheme is that the students are in control of the evidence and reflections which are all stored in each student’s personal section of Firefly. Teachers and parents can comment and give feedback but ultimately the students are in charge of their own record of learning.
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
The benefits have been seen not only in the classroom and in their ICT and computing lessons, but also in other specialist lessons. Already the devices are regularly used in world languages classes and the art department have used them to create digital art based on Roald Dahl’s work. It has also opened a whole world of digital features for the music department to augment their learning. “This scheme has huge potential to develop many key skills in students. As well as the obvious ICT and device management skills, the students develop independence and a deeper understand of their learning and how they develop and make progress,” said Brian Taylor Assistant Principal and Cross Campus Curriculum Technology Integrator. Practice makes permanent; acting on feedback makes perfect.
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
53
FAMILY and RELATIONSHIPS
Great gratitude
How thankfulness can enrich your personal and family life by Amornrat Sachdev
Practicing gratitude is the simplest way to enrich your life. That is quite a bold claim from a very biased Positive Psychology fan, but let me provide some context.
The context The Positive Psychology movement aims to counterbalance the attention psychological research gives to ‘fixing’ our problems. Instead, it focuses on how human beings can flourish, rather than just ‘live’ or return to ‘normalcy’. One of the key research areas in Positive Psychology is the study of character strengths. There are 24 identified character strengths (ie forgiveness, honesty, patience) that all human beings recognise and have at varying levels, regardless of gender, cultural background, geographical location, etc.
hours devoted to sleep and exercise, as well as reduces blood pressure and feelings of pain. Secondly, there should be an increase in positive affect and a reduction in negative affect. These results have been shown in various experiments using different sample groups from college students to those with neuromuscular illnesses. How did they practice gratitude in the studies? - by doing simple exercises such as counting blessings everyday for a week, keeping a gratitude journal where they list three positive things in the day, and more.
Great gratitude ‘Gratitude’ is the most magical of the 24 character strengths because of its positive link to life satisfaction, wellbeing, and joy. Gratitude and what it means are relatively self-explanatory. However, according to the VIA Institute on Character, there are two phases of gratitude. The first is a recognition of all that is right in your life, and the second is acknowledging that this cause of goodness is beyond oneself.
Gratitude gets personal Besides physical benefits, performing thankfulness can have a positive impact on your interpersonal life. Firstly, people experience increased contentment with life, optimism, and happiness. (That’s a lot of ‘firsts’.) Furthermore, gratitude and materialism seem to be inversely related. The more thankful you are, the less appreciation you have for material items and the more you can part with them. Practicing gratitude is easy-peasy. Here are some activities that you can do alone or with your family.
Gratitude gets physical Researchers have shown that practicing gratitude (so acknowledging things you are grateful for and recognising where it came from) increases sleep quality, the number of
Sticker up Put stickers on different items around the house that you are grateful for individually or as a family. If you are thankful for having running water, perhaps you can put a sticker on
54
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
the tap in your bathroom. If you are thankful for a memory, you can put it on an item around the house that represents that experience. You can assign colours to various family members so that you can learn what it is your family values and vice versa. This idea is taken from David Steindl-Rast’s TED talk where he talks about ‘living gratefully’ rather than just appreciating the good aspects of our lives once in awhile. He is a monk and an inter-faith scholar, and after he came back from Africa, he noticed that he was so blessed just to have water and electricity. However, this excitement faded over time, so he put stickers to help him stop and live in the moment.
However, delivering them to the people that are responsible for your happiness will provide the same advantages as well. With social media platforms, making someone’s day is just a What’s app or Line message away. Growing old with gratitude It may be hard to find things to be grateful for in the beginning of any gratitude exercise, but with time, people start to appreciate the little moments, and tend to realise that there is much to be happy about already. The more you do it, the more you wire your brain to look for moments to be grateful for - and the act of searching for things to be grateful for is already biochemically and interpersonally linked to happiness and optimism. People tend to continue gratitude activities long after the assigned period is over. Join the gratitude bandwagon and make it a habit. References: The following references were used to inform this article: - "Character Strengths, Character Building Experts: VIA Character". Viacharacter.org. N.p., 2016. Web. 6 Nov. 2016. - McCullough, M.E., & Emmons, R.A. (2003). Counting blessings versus burdens: An experimental investigation of gratitude and subjective wellbeing in daily life. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 66 (2), 377–389. - McCullough, M.E., Emmons, R.A., & Tsang, J. (2002). The grateful disposition: A conceptual and empirical topography. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 82 (1), 112–127.
Thank you notes Write thank you notes. Simple. Write one for each day of the year (or any other timeframe you are comfortable with as long as it longer than a week). The thank you note can be extremely short and just contain the moment/thing you are grateful for, and its source. This activity was taken from John Kralik, the author of ‘A Simple Act of Gratitude: How Learning to Say Thank You Changed My Life’. Taking it to the next level If you privately practice gratitude or do the activities above, it will make you more joyful. However, if you share it with the individual who assisted you, it can bring you closer together. This is how the above activities increase social connectedness. Furthermore, there is a trickle down effect, where the person you thank will be more likely to do a good deed for someone else and/or feel more positive about him/herself. If you are putting stickers on different items in the house as a family, perhaps take some time to explain why you are putting the stickers there, and if a family member is directly responsible for a good memory or item, it would be an excellent time to acknowledge and value them as the source of your happy moment. You can make this a weekly ritual where you can keep adding stickers or changing them. If you write thank you notes for each day of the year, you do not necessarily have to share them with anyone.
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
- Polak, E.L., & McCullough, M.E. (2006). Is gratitude an alternative to materialism?. Journal of Happiness Studies, 7, 343.
This article is based on research and the experiences of Amornrat Sachdev who is currently a counsellor at Bangkok International Preparatory and Secondary School in Bangkok, Thailand. She has worked within the international school system for many years, helping children with anxiety, low self-esteem, negative relationships and more. As for her interests, she will only admit to writing, creating in the kitchen, and reading - but never to online window shopping. EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
55
FAMILY and RELATIONSHIPS
From the diary of a new mom by Shubhashree Pal
Becoming a mother in itself is a unique feeling. Motherhood is bestowed with divine instincts. It gives you the power of sensing the feelings of your child, his talents and abilities. It’s sensing and experiencing unlike any other in the whole world. Being a mother, is an adventurous journey and one that is at the same time, fun, rewarding, challenging, results driven and ultimately life changing. Remembering the Sunday morning when I discovered that I was pregnant with my first child, it was that very moment I fell in love with my baby. It was very special for me to share the news of my pregnancy with not only my family members but also with my office colleagues. My being pregnant itself doubled my responsibilities. From that very day my baby had started to be my “Josh”, my lovely “Joshua”. Believe it or not, a mother’s instincts are super strong which can make her predict the gender of her baby. Or maybe, her desire gives way of her intuitive ability. The moments that I shared with my partner throughout the pregnancy would remain fresh in my mind. Not all pregnancies are smooth ones, mine being the one with lots of nausea and morning sickness. My indifference for the usual Thai cuisine uncovered the hidden talent in my husband. For the first time in his life he cooked for me. I guess, that’s one of the finest ways to know that a man is serious about
56
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
you! We as a couple and our baby, soon to come, tried best to manage the situation because our parents didn’t have the chance to stay with us. Back in India, they were always worried about us, more so, because of us being the inexperienced ones. Motherhood is awesome, inspiring, an overwhelming feeling of togetherness. I had the profound urge to be with my parents, in laws … with my entire family. Now this is when you crave for affection and one of the greatest sources for it is your family. After the first trimester, when I saw the movement of my baby for the first time through ultrasound images, the only feeling I had was ….. I can’t wait to hold my little angel in my arms. Finally, the day came when Josh was born. Birth is such a miracle! I can still hear his loud cries, the moment the doctor brought him out of my womb. I tenderly hugged him, so scared of hurting him. Once, I had been asked by an office colleague of mine in her mid thirties who doesn’t have children as to how it felt being a mother? I couldn’t really find words to explain her. Now, this is something which is next to impossible to make someone understand. It’s a self-realisation, a variety
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
of feelings. Lots of love and belongingness for a prized possession that comes in with many sacrifices or rather with greater compromises. I am being able to love someone, be there for him, able to go to the farthest extremes for that loved one without least of expectations. For many new mothers like myself, responsibility crops up first as a caregiver. During the first few days of my baby's life, I learnt how to meet his basic survival needs, which includes how to feed him, bathe him, care for him when he is ill, and soothe him into sleep. There is so much in the beginning that goes into making sure that this tiny being is safe and healthy. Like any other new range of skills, it is time consuming to learn, and it can be overwhelming. My son fulfilled our family. He made me complete by giving me the privilege of being his mother. I understood the real essence of family when I saw his eagerness and struggle to be held by me after being back home from work. I felt the pang of guilt of having to leave him for 9 long hours. After the day’s long work, his smiling face makes me forget everything in the whole world. He just wouldn’t stop smiling getting his mom back … all for himself. It is soothing to make him at peace when I hug and kiss him. The new realisation of being a mother brings in that sense of extra responsibility. It awakens all the good values in you because you want to be the best example for your child. It’s kind of funny when I protest to my family members’ gossiping about some other kid who had some imperfections. I achieved the realisation that every child is perfect in his own way. There’s nothing like the word imperfect for a kid in the view of his mother. My husband would taunt me by saying that every single kid is very cute and good looking for his mother. I laugh out replying him, “Yes ….. I do know, mine is the best!” Every single moment that my kid shares with his father, his grandfathers, his grandmothers or myself, gives me that immense happiness which was long lost from my life. I found the same happiness in simple little things during my
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
childhood days. My needs then, were so easily satisfied. Once again, I feel myself lucky when I see our parents spending fun time with our kid. It gives me a kind of pride sensing the happiness that I could bestow on them by bringing our little one in this world. It’s not like feeling happy always. There are times when I feel that I can’t take it anymore …… so many extra tasks that has added to my already busy schedule! My husband and I picked fights at meagre issues just trying to find out whose responsibility it was for some definite job which needed to be accomplished that very moment. I try to be optimistic by thinking that the role of mother is more important than that of a father. But, it makes me all the more angry when I remember that my husband has not yet changed his son’s diaper even once, so far. Just when you think you can't take it anymore, a broad smile from your kid will appear like a rainbow in a dark sky. And right at the point when it all seems to come together, you take a second look and realise your responsibilities, the need of your services in an entirely different way. Now that’s what family is all about …… in its absence you will miss it whereas it takes a lot to play your part when you are in it. If you have experienced the role of mother, you are quite certain that it is quite different from any other you have played in your life up until now.
Shubhashree Pal is a lawyer who thinks writing is fun. Born and raised in India, Shubhashree now lives in Thailand where she works as an International Relations Officer for a Public University. Previously, Shubhashree has spent five years as a law teacher and researcher in India. She specializes in Business Laws and has authored 2 monographs and various other articles.
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
57
FAMILY and RELATIONSHIPS
Looking back and looking forward by Scott and Nori Brixen
2016 wasn't really that bad. Sure, lots of celebrities exited, the UK Brexited, broking is broken and Trump triumphed. But I remain employed, my wife still tolerates me and all four boys are still alive. Quite a lot to be happy about, really! In fact, 2016 was darn good!
The "big boys" (Tai and Logan) turned seven, are losing teeth like crazy and are now obsessed with Plants vs Zombies (a truly ridiculous video game) and their new skateboards. Tai is doing great in a challenging trilingual school (he crushes English, curses Thai and tolerates Chinese) and is making his Dad proud by loving soccer. Logan continues to be uniquely Logan: creative, loving, sensitive and spacey. Logan is also doing great in his studies thanks to teacher Mom and he knows
58
February/March 2017
enough about animals to stump David Attenborough. The "little boys" (Drake & Kiva) turned four, are nearly as big as the big boys, are starting to read and understand a crazy amount of Thai. They continue to argue like an old couple but are the best of friends - the top bunk in their room stays empty; they prefer to sleep next to each other. They have no choice but to follow the big boys' obsessions, so when I ask them how their day was, Kiva might
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
reply "Daddy! We unlocked Primal Peashooter and the Melon-Pult ... it was SO COOL!" I really have no idea what he's talking about. We spent a lot of time this year at our villa on Bintan Island, Indonesia. I think we did six trips altogether, with the boys loving the daily rhythm of swimming, kayaking to the islands or up the estuary, boulder hopping near the beach and critter hunting when the tide goes out. The days are long
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
and active and the nights are (finally) peaceful now that the construction of the smaller villas behind us has stopped! Nori celebrated her birthday there with close girlfriends and plans on doing the same this year. We're renting it out so check out http://www. ombaklagoibay.com/ if you're looking for a beachfront villa that sleeps 12 near Singapore! In July, we braved the rainy season and explored Lanta Island, Si Kao and Libong Island in Thailand's south. While it did rain a lot, it didn't stop us from finding some amazing critters (a drowned python, giant tokay geckos, a green pit viper) and spending a lot of time boogie boarding on empty beaches. We also explored Pai up north without the kids, Dolphin Bay in Pranburi with friends, and Scott also took the older boys to Chiang Khan in Loei Province - hoping he does more of these dad and boys trips this year! Nori also managed to get away for a girls weekend to Seoul with her girlfriend Victoria who she's travelled with to 14 countries. For most Thais, 2016 will be remembered as the year they lost their beloved King Rama IX. He had been the longest serving monarch
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
“King Rama IX's funeral will be held roughly a year after his death.”
on earth; now England's Queen Elizabeth II is. His death on October 13 roiled the financial markets (making Scott's job extra stressful) and everybody was worried about civil unrest. But the transition (to his son King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun) passed smoothly. While the official mourning
period was only a month, many Thais (and Scott's company) have chosen to mourn for an entire year. That means only black and white clothes in the office and no end-of-year parties etc. The city's buildings are draped in black and white ribbons, and half of the billboards are monochrome messages of condolence. Usually, on New Year's
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
59
FAMILY and RELATIONSHIPS
Eve, the city is lit up by fireworks for at least 20 minutes. This year, there were no fireworks. Zero. That was amazing in its own right. King Rama IX's funeral will be held roughly a year after his death. Between now and then, nobody is going to cause any problems. While Thailand remains politically fragile (split between 'red shirts' in the provinces and 'yellow shirts' in the cities), most people are united in their devotion to the former king. But after the funeral, things could heat up fast. National elections are set for 4Q2017; politicians will have been unemployed for nearly three years - a lot is at stake. While you don't see troops of soldiers or tank battalions on the streets, it's funny to think that we've lived under a military government our whole time in Thailand.
OK, back to fun stuff. One of the highlights of 2016 was our family trip to UAE and Oman. In Dubai, we got to catch up with Claudia (who we haven't seen in over 15 years!) and her family. We were also blown away by Qasr Al Sarab, one of the most amazing hotels in the world - we hope to return some day. Oman is a beautiful, peaceful country at the tip of the Arabian Peninsula. We rented a Land Cruiser and drove a big loop in the northern half of the country. Along the way we watched giant green turtles laying eggs on a remote beach, stayed in a desert camp on the edge of the "Empty Quarter", toured old mountain forts around Nizwa, and followed a huge pod of dolphins near the capital city, Muscat. But our favourite activity was exploring wadis (seasonal watercourses) - swimming up the sinuous canyons into hidden caves and jumping off cliffs into the deep pools. And the boys looks so cute in the Omani outfits we bought them! One of the great things about living in Thailand is that lots of people come visit! All of Nori's family came to visit but at different times. We even had
a visit from Nori's Aunt Mou and Uncle Keith from the US as well as her Aunt Maua from Taiwan. In March, Scott's sister Jennifer and her daughters Reese and Paige stayed with us in Bangkok. It was great for the cousins to get to know each other better and everybody had so much fun. We also got to meet up with friends from Singapore (Natalie, Zoe, Dora, Kirsten, Audrey, Jayne & Mark, Sarina and family), Australia (Liz, Rodrigo and their boys) and the US (Alex and his family). And we ended the year with a visit from our friends Patricia and Tyler and their son, Fritz. I think Fritz really enjoying being the '5th monkey' for a while and we loved catching up with his parents, who we've now seen in at least a half dozen countries! What will 2017 hold? It'll certainly be another busy year but looking forward to the travels and visits from family/friends! Love The Brixens
60
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
Expat Stories
Dear Daniel by Daniel Sencier
If you could write to yourself age 12, posting the letter back through time, what would you say?
Now I’m 65, I often look back at that poor lost boy Daniel, dipping his toes into life in the early 60s. Yes, 12 year old me at the start of a life adventure, oblivious to what lay ahead! I so want to tell him that things will work out, even though he feels empty and lonely. There’s nothing stopping me writing the letter, it should be fun, and it might help me to make sense of a time in my life, when nothing much did!
to worry about the family. Your Mum’s a simple young Irish girl who came to London looking for work, but should have stayed at home a little longer; maybe married a local farmer. You might think Mum and Dad are old and wise, but one day, you'll realise that they were just kids’ themselves when you arrived. All those religions you’re going to try? Forget it, go straight to Buddhism, it’s the nearest you’ll find to the peace you’ll always be searching for. Your handwriting is terrible! I’m sorry, it’ll never improve, but don’t worry about the spelling, they’ll invent something called, ‘spellcheck’ and it’ll make you look almost clever. Start pretending to your friends that you really stopped believing in Santa when you were 6, because they all did. They’re laughing behind your back; it's not just because you still wear short trousers to school! You know all those Dinky cars that are so cheap now? Buy one a week, store them carefully in their boxes; 50 years from now they’re worth more than their weight in gold! Next month you’ll go to a swimming pool for the first time. The people there will be what you’ll come to understand as, ‘treading water’, but you’ll think they’re standing on the bottom, so you jump straight in. They won’t notice you at first because you slide silently under, and you do drown! Your life will flash before your eyes; it won’t take long because you haven’t really had much of one. Once your lungs have filled with water, you'll enjoy the experience; you’ll stop choking and slowly relax as you drift away. But you’ll be rescued, pulled out like a freshly landed fish, and then revived at the poolside. Coming back to life will be far worse than dying, and it takes you over 30 years to have the courage to jump in
Dear Daniel, Stop wishing that your parents aren’t yours and that you were adopted. They are, and nobody else is coming to collect you! Don’t blame Mum and Dad; they had it fairly tough themselves. When you have children you’ll understand that life’s not the, ‘bowl of cherries’ you once thought it might be. Be more understanding. Your Dad has been badly damaged by nearly ten years of conflict; he’s barely coping with what’s in his own mind
62
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
again. Try and do it sooner, it’s wonderful, and one day you’ll scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef. The public smoke filled rooms that you hate and have to live with will be gone one day, but not until you’re about 50 and you’ll help pioneer this change by creating the first, ‘all non smoking pub' in Scotland. England win the World Cup in 1966 and the nation is ecstatic! Enjoy it; savour every minute, because it hasn’t happened again.
You know in the headmaster’s office at school, there’s that big black phone? Well I’ve got a phone now that’s smaller than a pack of cards, and thinner by a quarter; it can do amazing things! I have all my music and films on it, my social networks and Apps (don’t ask), it can tell me exactly where I am and direct me to where I’m going; oh it can do a million things! Best of all, I can carry it everywhere with me and it doesn’t need to be plugged in! On the downside, talking is a dying art as everyone is engrossed in their phone, their new best friend, it’s sad! Don’t tell Mum or Dad about this letter, they won’t believe you anyway, you were always making things up. You could though, warn Dad about nailing the toilet seat to the ceramic bowl tonight, because nails into ceramic don't work. It splits the toilet in half and you all have to go in a bucket for over a week. Next month, Dad’s in that same toilet, but you think it’s your brother Paul, so you wait around the corner, ready to jump out and frighten him. Don’t! Dad is a martial arts expert, a byproduct of his war service. As you hurl yourself out screaming, arms and legs in a star shape, he dropkicks you, allowing a clear flightpath to the bottom of the stairs. As you lay there, nose bleeding, he rushes down, you think to help. No! He just wants to confirm that if you ever do it again, he’ll finish you off! Please, please do not plagiarise (look it up) that short story from the 'Readers Digest’ and enter it into the school magazine competition. You’ll feel like a hero at the prize giving, you come first, but a month later, Mr Rayner spots it; he reads that magazine. You’ll suffer unbearable shame, but don't worry; that pales into insignificance when just a week later, Heather from 6th form (who everyone loves) runs off with the Physics teacher.
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
In April, you’ll drop a match into the petrol tank of an old car in the scrapyard, as you have done many times, just to hear the humming of the excess gas burning off. You’re in for a big shock this time, because it explodes! You are hurled like a singed rag doll across the yard; your friends think you’re dead! Your bones must be made of rubber because none are broken, though your eyebrows and hair are mainly missing and you’re coated in oily soot. Think of a better excuse for when you get home. “I was walking past this car when it exploded” just didn’t wash with the attending police. Stop throwing stones at the boy who keeps running out of the house nearest the school, waving his arms and shouting. He doesn’t want to harm you; he’s what we now call, ‘special needs’. Don’t run away from him, smile, hug him and be his friend; he just wants friends. Your mum will take you to Dr Bradley because you have pains in both eyes, they’re red and sore with a feeling that there’s grit in them. He’ll find that both your eye lenses have been burnt in some way and will question your recent activities. Nobody told you not to look at the sun through a magnifying glass, it wasn’t your fault, but I doubt you’ll ever do it again.
You’ll find a huge stash of German banknotes behind a loose brick in Aunty Betty’s mansion house in Ireland. Don’t take it to the local bank and try and cash it in. Fool! An Irish boy, aged 14, with an English accent, trying to exchange German Deutschmarks into English Pounds in a small town Irish Bank is just, well, suspicious! Your Aunt knows that the German doctor who owns the house has put it there for a ‘rainy day'. The bank manager will keep you and your brother talking, but will have already called your Aunt. She’ll be on her way to give you both a bigger beating than her size would suggest she could ever deliver. When you find that stash, bury it, leave a note somewhere; I’ll collect it one day. I know Mum keeps saying that, ‘”honesty is the best policy”, but take my word, you have to be selective. I’m not sending you any other information on how to get rich, because even though you’ll think it buys happiness, I’ve seen that it doesn’t. Mum and Dad are both gone now, but I still think of them fondly. I’m happy I made my peace and glad I got to know them better in later life. I miss them in a weird sort of way, but maybe if I get the chance, I’ll write to them. Your best friend, Daniel EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
63
Expat Stories
A ceremony to honour King Bhumibol Adulyadej Maharatchamongkol Great Pagoda at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, Chonburi by Carole Ann Eastgate
I am a member of the Soroptimist's of Dusit, Bangkok. The Soroptimist's are an international global volunteer organisation working to transform the lives of women and girls. Our society was very honoured to be invited by Khun Pattama, a long term Thai member of our club, to attend a prayer and chanting ceremony (Pra Abhitham) at the Maharatchamongkol Pagoda of Wat Paknam on Friday November 11th to honour and offer merit to King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Khun Pattama and our club were two of the four sponsors of the day and we gave donations to the temple and to the monks. Before the ceremony took place, we had an opportunity to visit the amazing four storey Pagoda which is 80 metres tall and whose sides are 52 metres wide! Its apex is covered with 100kg of gold and inside there is a magnificent chedi made of glass. The dome is decorated by very detailed hand painted art work. The temple complex, of which it is a part, was built five centuries ago and has beautiful gardens. It
64
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
sits at the junction of three klongs and has great historical significance both in its purpose and construction. We were one of the first groups to arrive for the ceremony and were the only expat group there. Nuns, monks, schoolchildren and members of the Thai community also attended. Before sitting down respect was paid to the portrait of the King.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
The four monks who were to do the chanting arrived so that the chanting could begin at exactly 3.52pm the time the King passed away. At the beginning of the ceremony Khun Pattama lit candles and incense sticks; two candles to Buddha, two to Buddha’s teaching (Pra Tham) and one to the King. Before chanting, the people in the temple requested the five precepts - not to kill, steal, commit adultery, lie or drink alcohol. The monks recited first and the people in the temple followed. After this, the monks chanted Pra Abhitham for people who had passed away. They were chanting for the King. This was followed by robes, gifts (Thaiyatham) and money (Patjai) being given to each monk for his own use so he could carry on Buddhism and the good work expressed in the 227 precepts. The offering was also a merit making and part of the four factors (Patjai 4) representing shelter, something to cover the body, medicine and food. Although during the chanting ceremony, we could not understand what was being said, it gave us time to reflect ourselves and to observe the portrait of King Bhumibol Adulyadej which was prominently displayed. After the chanting of the four monks on the dais, an
address was given by a senior monk who was sitting in a separate chair facing the King’s portrait. He spoke to honour the occasion and life of His Majesty. He blessed the event and the congregation for attending the ceremony. The nine of us who represented the Soroptimist's of Dusit felt it a great privilege to have been invited to such a special ceremony to offer our merit making to the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
Travel
A fresh perspective on India by Lisa Donaldson - Instagram @LisaTheRoadWarrior
I've just come back from my very first trip to India - Jaipur to be precise. I'll cut straight to the most important point: for a foodie, shopaholic or culture vulture, Jaipur is the perfect destination for a long weekend away. I've really just only scratched the surface of India, a country 3 times smaller than the United States, with a population 4 times greater. Truth is, I've been itching to go to India for a while and this road warrior isn't afraid to admit she was just a little bit intimidated. India gets a reputation and image that may be a bit extreme and unfair. But at least in Jaipur, in the northern state of Rajasthan, I didn't experience any of what I was worried about and flew home unscathed and healthy. I did take many precautions, drinking and brushing my teeth with only bottled water, disinfecting surfaces and hands frequently, selecting well cooked or hot food options
66
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
and ordering an Uber or a driver hired directly from my hotel everywhere I went. I had the opportunity to visit Jaipur to attend a friend of a friend's wedding. Indian weddings are epically big and long and this one was no exception. After 2 days of pre-wedding events, an elephant delivered the groom to the final day of ceremonies at the family palace and fireworks lit up the sky of this grand affair. I wore a sari covered in crystals and felt like royalty myself. The buffets were out of this world and I ate so well I forgot what hunger even felt like. Northern Indian cuisine has to be one of my
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
favourites: paneer, curry and legendary pistachio ice cream was always on the menu. There was food everywhere and everyone was trying to feed me more, making sure I tried every delectable delight. I was in foodie heaven. In the mornings, before the festivities began, I took to the streets to get my shopping fix. The shopping in Jaipur is something very special and unlike anything I've seen in Asia. The shops are strange, large, echo-y 4 storey buildings with one 'theme' per floor. Jewellery on level 1, textiles on 2, home goods on 3. Some bargaining is advisable, even when the signs say 'fixed prices' and it's best to go when you have time to browse and haggle. I found a lot of amazing pieces and the quality is so good that I know these items will be with me for a very long time. The best part is that the prices won't break the bank. I've spent more at Zara on a top I've accidentally shrunk on the first wash than my new black and gold Kashmir pashmina shawl. I drooled over the fine jewellery but managed to stay strong and resist most of the incredible, but unnecessary baubles. I invested in a rough stone necklace and some breezy, bright tunic tops and palazzo pants that would have easily cost 5 times as much in Singapore. I definitely recommend leaving extra space in your bags! I loved exploring the cultural side of Jaipur, which earned its nickname as the 'pink city' for its rosy hue. I hired a driver who expertly navigated me around his beautiful city, pointing out great spots to take a photo or telling me tidbits of history behind the crumbled pink walls. The traffic in Jaipur (and the rest of India) is a complex web of cars, motorbikes, brave pedestrians, camels and elephants all weaving in and out, magically managing to avoid collision. In my usual travel style, I did very little planning beforehand, so my hotel drew me a map of the best spots and sent me out for the day. Travelling with no plan means everything exceeded expectations. My very first stop at the Wind Palace took my breath away. The beauty and serenity of this building surprised me and every time I turned a corner, I was rewarded with a new
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
view and perspective of this rose coloured city. Even though it was early December, the city felt hot and dry, but climbing up the ornate towers lined with stained glass I could feel the refreshing breeze and the noisy streets below seemed to disappear. Perhaps my favourite spot to explore was Jaigarh Fort, next to the Amber Palace. I am not sure why tourists seemed to skip this spot, but I felt like I had the place almost to myself. The maze of rooms, passageways, courtyards and vistas kept me guessing what I would find next. It was blissfully quiet and peaceful knowing that I was far above the beautiful madness of the 3 million citizens of the city below. India will continue to be a place I return as I would love nothing more than to explore deeper into this strange and exciting country. I've seen India after visiting the single city of Jaipur is like saying I've seen the US after only going to New York! Even still, from what little I've seen of this amazing country, I know I'm hooked on India and can't wait to go back and discover more.
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
67
Expat Stories
The toll of expat life by Barbara Lewis
As many well seasoned expats know this life we lead takes its toll on us physically, emotionally and mentally. I have been a expat now for over 25 years and in this article I want to talk about a physical issue that I have had to deal with just about every time I have moved to a new location and country. If I talked about anymore than one aspect of the challenges that we face as expats moving to new locations every 3-4 years it would be a book rather than an article. Please don’t misunderstand me I love being an expat and don’t want to give it up for anything but with this life comes challenges as all paths chosen do. We have had the fortune to live in several different countries and with each country it seems one of the physical challenges that I have in the first couple of years of being in the new location is I gain weight. In each place it is slightly different and I have to be honest most people do not think that it is particularly a problem for me, as I am not a particularly heavy person of slightly above average height and physically quite strong and fit, but I do. I believe this happens because food is a comfort. When I am uncertain of my footing and am getting familiar with my surrounding I use food and drink (depending on the country) to reward myself when I manage challenges successfully and condolence when things are overwhelming, lonely and out of sorts. Usually my weight goes up until I get fed up with my clothes not fitting the way I like or I just don’t like the way I feel and
68
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
then I start disciplining myself in some manner, maybe not a diet per say but more exercise, restricted amounts of food, pure, simple, non-processed foods etc. Usually I can bring my weight down to a point depending on how much stress I am under but I admit as I get older and each time it gets harder. Bangkok was no different. I moved here just over 18 months ago. I had the added complication of going into surgical menopause because I had to have a total hysterectomy. I am 54 so the big ‘M’ was coming anyway and from everything I had read weight gain was all part of process but I was unprepared for how much. I gained the most I ever had during recovery from surgery and beyond. I really felt a bit hopeless that I would never be able to get rid of weight again and had even started giving all my clothes
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
away. From what I had read and researched experts said it was really hard to do get rid of the weight post menopause. I did start to try to make some doctor recommended post menopause suggested modifications to my diet and exercise but I didn’t see any changes. My activity levels had also been hampered since coming to Thailand by some reoccurring knee problems which meant no running at all, no Muay Thai - too much impact at this point and limited weightlifting because of the surgery. One day in my online reading I came across a programme called Bright Line Eating By Susan Peirce Thompson, which she has based on some of the concepts of the 12 step eating food plans. She is a professor of science nutrition and herself a recovering addict of food and drugs. The very first thing she does is ask people to discover through a set of questions their level/number on the susceptibility scale. I scored a 6-7/10, she is a 10++. I am not as addicted to food as she is but I have foods that trigger me. The susceptibility scale gives us insight into how we manage our food or if we live to eat or eat to live. The basis for Bright Line Eating is to take our susceptibility to food and manage it so that our eating patterns create a lifestyle change where we are in control of our food. The plan is meant to be long term in order to help people, as Susan says, “be happy, thin and free.” A “Bright Line” is a clearly defined rule or standard. These are the bright lines: three meals a day breakfast, lunch and dinner – no snacking in between of any kind, no sugar and flour of any kind, weigh and measure all food, and follow the plan. I read through her literature and I decided to talk to my husband to see if this was a lifestyle change that he wanted to make. About five years ago we embarked on an eating plan called the Four Hour Body by Timothy Ferris, which is focused on slow carbs. This was very successful for us but is quite high in protein. Since that time we now only eat chicken and fish, mostly, so it has made it harder to use his plan plus once a week you can have a binge day and eat whatever you want which neither of us really thought was a good idea as you get older and it gets harder to keep weight off. Having a binge day
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
once a week seems counterintuitive at our age. Bright Line Eating (BLE) is 24/7. Ken agreed we should try it. We each felt we had about 5-10kg to lose. I am happy to say that after approximately 8 weeks we both are down to our goal weights or lower, so yes we are happy and thin and fitting into clothes that we haven’t been able to for a few years and were ready to give away. I am not sure if we are truly free yet. I feel freer in the sense that we seriously eat so little processed foods that in itself has to set me free. It has freed up some of my willpower which is also part of the freedom of following a plan, weighing and measuring food the constant decisions are taken away from you, therefore not depleting your decision making power of which we all only have a limited quantity each day. We eat so much healthier because our diet is mainly fruit and vegetables with some protein in the form of mostly chicken, fish and diary. The food is healthy and wholesome. The meals I prepare are still tasty but just in a purer simpler form where the flavours of the foods and spices shine through. In the future we may go to an all plant based diet for the good of the planet but not as of yet. One of the things that I refused to give up from the beginning was my red wine so every night we have 5 ounces of red wine after dinner, this is not part of the BLE weight loss plan but it is ours and it has worked so far. I think I will truly feel free when I am still this weight at 2, 5, 10 and 15 years from now and I can do so with little effort or willpower. The power of BLE seems to be rules based eating allowing us to better control our diminishing willpower. For those people who are interested in getting further information on Bright Line Eating you can look it up online under the name or under Dr Susan Peirce Thompson. It is not free I will warn you. She just finished up a boot camp and I am not sure when her next one will be. She provides lots of support mechanisms if that is what you need. Dr Thompson is a professor of nutrition and neuroscience and has a foundational understanding of how to make plans like this work with the personal understanding of having kept her weight off food addiction under control for over 10 years using bright lines. EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
69
ArtS and Culture
Dinner with a Thai family by Jocelyn Pollak
As this issue focuses on family, I thought it would be nice to share some of my experiences and advice about a quintessential family experience: a Thai family dinner. I have been in Thailand for about four years and had the opportunity to share meals at the homes of many of my Thai friends. I have been invited to dinner with families of various financial, social and cultural backgrounds and there are a few things that were surprising and very different to me at first. Looking back, I would have loved some advice about what I could expect before, during and after a meal with a Thai family, so I have broken down what you can expect if you are asked to join a Thai family for dinner. Before: Arriving empty handed to dinner would be unusual even in Western culture. Depending on the social status of the family, you should plan to bring flowers or fruit. A bottle of wine is nice if the family is of greater financial status. You can expect to be offered a glass of water upon arrival. This custom comes from the days when water wasn’t always clean and upon arriving at a house, the taste of clean water from your host was a sign of good things to come. Meal preparation is typically a family affair and if you are a woman, you should offer to help in the kitchen. Typically everyone has a dedicated job. Usually Mom is responsible for making the curry, while the daughters assist mom wherever she may need it. Grandma may be overseeing the whole operation and can usually be found doing a task like preparing or peeling fruit or vegetables. If the family has the financial means to have servants, you may not see them in the kitchen at all. Families of lesser means may buy a majority of the food from a local market in which case you are off the hook for the position of farang assistant. After the meal is prepared, it will be set out on the table “family style”. If you are eating in a shop house, you can expect to be sitting either on the floor or on small stools at a
70
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
coffee table. At the homes of more modern family, a table and chairs is the norm. If you will be sitting on the floor, be careful not to wear a short skirt or you may have some trouble finding a comfortable position to sit in. During: Once everyone has been seated, you will receive a plate with some rice on it. In more polite families, a man in the family may serve food to you after serving the older members of the family. If it appears that you will not be served, it’s a free for all. Typically there will be a serving spoon in each dish which Thais call the "middle spoon". Use the serving spoon to dig into all the flavourful Thai dishes. Some families may not use the middle spoon, although this is fairly uncommon if a guest is visiting. If there’s a soup or curry, you will get a small side bowl to eat from. Be careful not to get your rice into the main serving dish, I have definitely made this mistake! As far as utensils go, you can expect the ubiquitous Thai spoon. You’ll likely also have a fork and if it’s a Chinese-Thai family, you can expect chopsticks. You’ll get a glass of water, but curiously no one seems to touch this until the end of the meal, no matter how spicy the food is; this is because they don’t want you to fill up on water. Don't expect to get a napkin to put in your lap. Just like at many Thai restaurants, there will be some tissues or a roll of toilet paper placed on the table to clean up with. As far as conversation topics go, all the usual taboos of western society are pretty much the same in Thailand as well. While politics may be talked about, be wary of how and when you express your opinion, if at all. A safe topic would be to talk about the positive parts of your day. Keep it light. After: Now you will see people drinking their water. As the meal comes to a close, you should indicate that you are finished by placing your utensils together. If you are eating with chopsticks, you place them together on the top of the bowl. If your utensils are in an open position, it can indicate that you’re not quite finished with their delicious Thai cooking. It’s always nice to offer to help with the clean up process. When it’s time for dessert, you may move to a different room and enjoy some of the fruit that you brought together. Some families with smaller houses will stay at the same table to eat their “kanom”, which is the Thai word for dessert. All of my tips stem from some kind of embarrassing mistake I made somewhere along the line. Thai people are incredibly welcoming and kind, and while they may giggle at your mistakes, it’s not in mean spirit. Most importantly, enjoy your time with your friends and cheers to a great evening.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
ArtS and Culture
Meet the artist: Roberto Ferin By Rianka Mohan
This issue, we depart from our usual coverage of artists and musicians to highlight an artist of a different order. Expat Life talks to Roberto Ferin, chef and proprietor of DiVino. “Be Italian!” goes a song in the Broadway play ‘Nine’ and thanks to DiVino, the longstanding gem of a restaurant in bustling Thong Lor, you can authentically do so right here in Bangkok. A warm summer evening found my husband and me with two of our friends walking into its understated dining room. You couldn’t help but immediately notice Ferin in the midst of it all, in chef’s whites with a colourful bandana tied around his head, his voice carrying over as he recommended a particular dish or asked after a couple’s wine selection. He came over to our table and, after a brief conversation about what we were in the mood for, he took the menus and told us to leave it to him. I rarely take a chef up on this option especially at a restaurant I’m trying for the first time but something about Ferin’s assured charm put me at ease. Alright, let’s trust the chef. Turned out to be the best decision we could have made because the dishes brought to us over the course of the next few hours were nothing short of sublime. I was immediately transported back to a road trip my husband and I took through Italy and how the food even in off-the-
72
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
beaten-path villages tasted fresh and wholesome, and left me feeling immensely gratified. One of the dishes we had at DiVino’s was fried potatoes, as basic as you could get, but my, if they weren’t the best potatoes I have ever tasted! And beans cooked in olive oil. I’m no fan of beans but these were something else! The T-bone steak cooked in a Florentine style, succulent with just the right blend of crispy redness, came in a large platter and seemed enough to feed a small army but we managed to polish it off among the four of us. And paired with a robust Sicilian red that Ferin recommended, we were in food heaven. Dying to learn more, the next day, I called and asked for an interview. However, Ferin doesn’t enjoy publicity and the restaurant’s manager, Giuseppe Sepe, had to convince him to meet me. Our interview over the course of a little less than an hour had me asking questions until finally, Ferin waved his hands up and down in the stereotypical Italian gesture, fingers of either hand brought together. “Basta! How much more you want about me? It’s enough that people come here, enjoy the food.” And added his characteristic warm smile that makes it hard to take offence. Be Italian. Ferin can’t help but be so despite years here and he brings that infectious spirit and attentive hospitality to his place. As I mentioned, he doesn’t particularly care for hype but one meal makes you a convert so it is fitting we give him his due and let our readers in on this culinary treasure that has caught the attention of even The New York Times. Ferin comes from a Milanese family of chefs so it felt natural that he too should follow in their footsteps, but unlike the rest of his family, his passion was also driven by a desire to travel. After proving his mettle in Europe, he arrived in Thailand more than sixteen years ago and has never looked back. He worked at many reputable restaurants in Bangkok before deciding to start out on his own. The year was 2010.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
“We started with 36 seats and five years later, we have around 90.” The political situation was uncertain and the economy still reeling from the aftershocks of the 2008 global meltdown. To a businessperson, that would seem the appropriate time to hunker down, not start new ventures. But to a chef with spontaneity and a keen zest for life, it seemed as good a time as any. He had also astutely observed that the beer bar in Penny’s Balcony community mall seemed busy every night and that Thong Lor was growing and seemed unaffected by the general slump. So he bought over the struggling noodle
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
shop next door. DiVino opened on January 1, 2011 and it quickly became a local joint, initially famed for its top notch wine. Today, the walls of the restaurant play host to over 300 wines. “When I started, I had a small crew – just me, my wife, and a couple of staff. And DiVino was more an enoteca, a small place with wine and cheese. But my customers kept asking me to add pasta, add food. So over time, we’ve built that up and have quite a full menu now.” Ferin bought more space and redesigned the restaurant with the help of interior designer, Massimo Gentile, into three distinct yet versatile spaces – an intimate dining room with ten tables, a more casual outdoor space with a TV, and a private dining room, which includes a library of some of his more prized collection of bottles. “We started with 36 seats and five years later, we have around 90.”
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
73
ArtS and Culture
comes from many wineries that import based on his recommendations. 85% of his wines are Italian with the rest from new producers around the world that he likes to try.
Five questions for the chef!
Now we get down to brass tacks – the delicious menu. Ferin is modest, only saying he prefers to keep things simple – “I like a small menu with fresh products that change with the season.” The menu is one page and selective but Sepe is quick to add that many longtime patrons of DiVino never look at it. “You have to understand. Here we have three menus: the à la carte, the specials, and Roberto! Many people, they come here and they just ask him to cook what he likes for them!” Ferin laughs and nods in agreement, “In Italy, that’s our culture, you come to a restaurant to eat, then it’s always a party, a festa. You spend a few hours, you eat good food, drink good wine. You don’t just order a salad and go home to sleep. You indulge all your senses. So I like for my clients too, to have a good time.” I recall our dinner and that was exactly how I would have described it – a feast. Good food does more than just fill an empty stomach; it awakens joy in you, like a warm hug from the inside. I still dream of the vegetables we had at DiVino and tell Ferin so. And yes, I admit, a part of me did think that I could reproduce it in my kitchen, if only I had his recipe because they did seem so simple; so devoid of artifice – no reductions or fancy sauces here. Ferin grins, “Italian food is the best when it is simple. The less you cook, the better. Olive oil, salt, and pepper usually form the backbone of what you add to cook vegetables. You have to bring out its taste, its texture, and its inner goodness. But in order to do this and have it be delicious, you have to have the absolute best quality of produce. That is key. You’ve to order fresh and cook it almost right away.” He tries as much as possible to source locally but for authentic Italian flavour, he imports from his homeland. “A restaurant thrives on consistency. My customer has to want to come back. Like, for example, we have a new dish on the menu, roast chicken, it comes from France. I would love to buy everything here in Thailand but often the best seafood here is exported to Japan and the US” His wine list is also constantly updated (“Too often!” notes Sepe with a wink, to which Ferin shrugs) and
74
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
What do you love about having a restaurant in Bangkok? I love Bangkok because it is so international and I love the open mindedness of Thais. In Thong Lor, you get a very upscale crowd of foodies who travel and know their food. They are extremely discerning in their tastes and appreciate quality cuisine. The approach to food is sophisticated and cosmopolitan. There are more than 10,000 restaurants in Bangkok with more than 100 chefs cooking Italian food. So for me, to own a restaurant is not a job; it’s a lifestyle. And I enjoy sharing it with a crowd that appreciates it. What’s your favourite food on the menu? I only cook what I enjoy eating myself. I love to cook appetisers and meat and unique dishes that are hard to find elsewhere like roast rabbit, and our baked pastas. I like risotto. I don’t put risotto on the menu because I believe that it can only be made to order. I don’t believe in pre-cooking risotto; it doesn’t taste the same. Sepe – Linguine lobster is our signature and is excellent and maybe because I’m from Milan, North Italy, I love our Florentine steak. You mention cooking unique things that aren’t available elsewhere. Do you find your audience open minded to trying new things? I’m fortunate in that I have a loyal clientele who trust me. And when people come here, even first timers, they know the standards are high and we don’t often disappoint. So I would say yes, people come here to eat and drink old favourites and to discover new things. Your favourite wine, both red and white? Both Italian of course! For reds, I like our Sangiovese grapes and South Italian wines – Negramaro being one. For whites, from North Italy – Veneto, Amarone. One thing people should not do in an Italian restaurant? Bring your own wine! (To which Sepe tongue-incheek adds, especially French!). Or at least, if it’s a very good bottle, you must share with the chef!
http://divinobkk.com
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
Food and Beverage
Thinking of having a fun BBQ with friends and family at home Where can you shop for the best barbecue grill and accessories in Thailand? We would like to introduce you to a new shopping destination for BBQ grills and accessories. You will find “Mason Appetite” shop-in-a-shop destinations at Siam Paragon (Living Zone, 4th fl.), The Emporium (Living Zone, 4th fl.), and BluPort in HuaHin (Beach Story Zone, 1sr fl.), and their range is also available at Villa Markets. They offer a wide range of BBQ products, such as gas and charcoal grills, BBQ accessories, wood chips and chunks. The BBQ grills they carry are well designed and of the highest quality.“Weber” and “Napoleon” brands are well known as the world’s No1 BBQ grills. If you are thinking of having a BBQ grill party with friends and family, enjoying the smell of barbecued steak’s, sausages, enjoying tasty smoked salmon and grilled vegetables it’s an ideal way of socialising in the comfort of your own home. Mason Appetite concessions also carry good quality cooking related merchandise. They have “Lodge” cast iron frying pans, “Good Cook” kitchen gadgets, and “Ball” mason jars. I love the Ball jars. They are ideal to use as drinking containers and we use them for preserving food - jams, chutney’s, marmalades and soups. They also stock the “FoodSaver” vacuum machine which keeps food fresh up to 5 times longer than if you put them in other containers. We use the FoodSaver machine to vacuum the Ball jars so that our dry food or jam or will stay fresh longer.
I also found the Ball Blender in their range. It is a chic blending machine which is good for making smoothies and juicing. It’s easy to create your own recipes blend-and-go with fresh, clean fruits and vegetables. A natural way of absorbing the essential vitamins and keeping you and the family fit and healthy. If you want to source quality products and be the envy of all your friends at the next barbecue that this is definitely a range that I can recommend. The Mason Appetite shop-ina-shop at the above outlets. I am sure that you will be impressed.
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
75
Expat Stories
To come in 2017 by Tassapon Sutthidetkul
Future may be something you predict, it may be your dream, it may be the goal that you set. When it comes to the new year looking to the future, is that all about what is in front of you or ‘what will become’ or are they the goals that are set to be achieved in the coming year - what people usually refer to as ‘new year resolutions’? What about looking at ‘you’ at the present moment and first start noticing and realising what change the past year brought; what you have become; what you have improved; what you have changed. ‘What change do you see now about you compared to the ‘you’ at beginning of 2016 to come into 2017. Every year I look for a change in me. Nothing physical but something from within. Change is something that produces that sense of familiarity to me. It is something I can expect.
76
February/March 2017
It strangely gives me that sense of comfort. Having lived in different cities and countries makes ‘change’ a familiar concept to my life - and what an irony. Life is not about staying in the same place, carrying the same routine everyday – not just in a literal sense of being in a physical place. I was changed when I lived 5 years of my life in Singapore as a teenager. My experience was different to where I was born and raised in Thailand when I was just a kid. Different cultures, faces of people, landscapes and lifestyles – all allowed for different experiences of me at a different growing stage of age. I saw myself differently, I became more independent and related to people in a different way than it was.
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
It was not about being dependent on my family to look after me anymore, it was about being able to live on my own and to a certain degree being able to depend and be depended on by my friends – people who were from another country. It was also about embracing another culture that was not the same as your own. You learnt that people have their ways of living - they have their beliefs, cultures and values, and how they relate to other people; their sense of identity to a place, which may be different from yours. Even language – this is interesting because people from different countries can speak the same language; English, but express themselves in a completely different way because of their cultures – the ones they were brought up with and were taught to believe in.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
I saw myself changed, it made me feel ‘different’ – I felt different about me and other people that surround me. I carried on my life differently without even realising then. And this is me reflecting; looking back from past years for how much I have changed, evolved and grown. The usual sense of familiarity no longer feels familiar, it is that difference in the environment; that sense of newness that became familiar to me. After living in Singapore, I stayed in Melbourne, Australia for 4 years before coming back to Thailand and now living here. I experienced what people called ‘culture shock’ in Australia being a foreigner there. This was where people went through a sudden change in their environment and how they went on with their everyday lives changed unpredictably and immensely. It was an entirely different manner and gesture of communication with people that surrounded you. They related and interpreted your behaviour in ways that you were not normally used to and did not even know what it meant. In the beginning their reactions to you were all too strange to comprehend and you simply wondered why they treated you the way they did. And when you stayed there long enough, you became adjusted and adapted to your new way of communicating and relating to other people around you in that environment. It gradually built a sense of comfort and there was that sense of belonging as if you came from that place even if you were born somewhere else. Everywhere that I went, I built an identity to that place, adopting its culture and people’s ways of living, even perceiving. Sometimes I put myself in their shoes and tried to see through their perspectives to discover something new, something I had not thought of and applied to my life in different situations. My surroundings never stayed the same, so I learnt to be creative with
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
how I lived my life, with my thoughts, with my ways of doing things, even solving problems in life. My life was all about learning something new and something different and adapted what I have learnt to the present. One of the most important things I discovered having been integrated into different cultures is that there is more than one way you can interpret a situation or an aspect of your life or even yourself. It is like when you stand on top of the mountain and you see the whole panoramic view. Instead of just facing towards one direction specifically, you turn yourself around and look at every angle you can possibly view. You see your view from different points of where you stand, not having to fix it to just one point. My definition of life when I was a kid was to go easy and live with something I was comfortable with, simply being contented with where I was at. Then there was something different about life through the difference of perspectives of people I came across and my life was not just about living with something I was comfortable with. It was also about putting myself out there, being out of my own comfort zone. Sometimes your life will challenge you out of what you are used to, and
you just have to give it a chance and let yourself discover something new. To move towards the future, I believe you have to be able to identify the key factor that brings change to you, what that affects you and has an impact on your life. I identified my key factor as the people that I met and came across at the different times and places in my life. Sometimes they came at random. Sometimes it was through one simple, unintended discussion with my friends. It did not matter. It just came unexpectedly. And I set my new year resolution, not for what I would do, but for who I would become – who I would change to be. It is something that is effortless to achieve but will have so much impact on me. For 2017, my goal is to become older - to grow with age. Over a year, life is an accumulated experience of many different things, many moments with different people in your life. To grow older, to be more responsible about myself and my health, to take responsibility with the things I do; to think and be aware of different possibilities of outcomes of a decision, and most importantly, to be who I am. Simply to live my life through 2017.
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
77
FAMILY and RELATIONSHIPS
Family by Sue Steel
Family: Social unit consisting of parents and their children, considered as a group, whether dwelling together or not: the traditional family. A social unit consisting of one or more adults together with the children they care for. I always believe that a family should do their utmost to stay together as a unit, sadly, in this day and age, it is not always possible. My time here in Thailand, firstly with my late husband Graham, then with my son Andrew, together with my beautiful daughter-in-law Debbie and of course my two lovely grandchildren Lauryn and Oliver has been an amazing part of my life as well as travelling to visit the family when they spent five years in Sri Lanka before they came to Thailand. We did not want to miss out on seeing the children growing up, keeping the family bond. I worked in banking for 27 years, Graham had been a fireman 30 years then worked in the Probation Service. October 2007 we said goodbye to Hull, East Riding in Yorkshire, the UK to start our new life in Thailand. One of the hardest things to do was saying goodbye to my son Stuart and my other lovely grandchildren Jak and Lillie as well as my family in Hull. Deciding on Jomtien, Pattaya so that the family from Bangkok as well as Hull could visit on weekends or holidays. Sadly, things did not work as planned, Graham lost his life to cancer just over a year later. Moving to Bangkok in December of that year, living with the family saved me from heartache, helping to look after the children was a blessing. Val my sister-in-law (Graham’s sister) went on secondment back in 1963 for the Hull General Post Office to Zambia, originally Northern Rhodesia, setting up the telecommunications then onto Malawi. How difficult it must have been for her to leave her mother, her home to travel to deepest Africa and survive living in primitive conditions. She did and is still in Malawi over 50 years later, loves visiting the
78
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
East and has spent many happy times each Christmas to be with family here in Bangkok. Debbie said “join the British Women's Group”. I did and I met some amazing people including Gale Bailey MBE. Everyone that I have met treats you like their own family, you are never made to feel left out. I believe it is being away from your home country that everyone tries to have a family of friends. It is interesting to see how the Thai people as well as other Asian countries look after their elderly relatives having travelled around much of Thailand and Asia. Years ago in UK, we did look after our parents, aunties etc. That is the way we were brought up, but now I feel it is an easy solution to use sheltered accommodation, visit when they have time. I feel it is sad for the aged who have brought up their families, often enduring hardship to enable their children to make their way in the world. When I look back on my life, I had lots of aunties, uncles, cousins. Friday's was a day that family used to come to my mother’s house for endless cups of tea. We had a family meeting place, if any drama, someone would be there to help and sort things out. Sadly as the older members of the family dwindled things began to change. The younger ones did their own thing, the world was changing. Growing up in the 1950s life was not easy, three brothers, a sister, our father was killed in 1953, we were poor but happy. We all pulled together as families did. Most people did not know any different. Our generation and previous generations can truthfully say, you do not know how easy you have it now. Thinking of when people moved abroad years ago to work after chatting with my friend Jane, who has lived in Asia around thirty years, how hard it must have been when only the telephone/fax/post or telegrams to keep in touch with your loved ones back home. Today, life is so much easier with free video calling, Skype, Facetime and so many other social websites. The time difference may be the only issue. It is a sad fact of life that some family values have been lost and will never be recovered. I would hope that future generations to come will look back on previous generations and think, that is how families should be.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
ArtS and Culture
Bangkok Community Theatre is entering their 45th season by Don Harrelson
2017 is Bangkok Community Theatre’s 45th season! Over these 45 years, BCT has presented shows of all kinds … musicals, comedies, dramas, dinner theatre, children’s show, pantomimes and everything in between. In our first two productions of this season BCT will be presenting a couple of plays that we think will highlight the Valentine’s Day holiday with stories of love, what people do for love and how people find love in desperate situations. The Vagina Monologues will focus on the rights of women. The “V-Day” charity performances will bring women together to celebrate women’s rights and the love that they provide to their families. V-Day is a global activist movement to end violence against women and girls that raises funds and awareness through benefit productions of Playwright/Founder Eve Ensler’s award winning play. You will cry and laugh with the performances of these dedicated women. The Vagina Monologues dives into the mystery, humor, pain, power, wisdom, outrage and excitement buried in women’s experiences. The
monologues have been performed to great acclaim throughout the world from Zagreb to Santa Barbara, from London to Seattle, from Jerusalem to Oklahoma City and now Bangkok. Performances are set for February 14. 17 and 18. A Midsummer Night’s Dream will bring the comedy of William Shakespeare, where nothing is what it seems, to the stage. We’ll be presenting the play in a stripped downclose up production featuring 5 women and 3 men. We want to make the play more accessible to our audience and to see it with fresh eyes. Shakespeare explores all sides of love, the agony, confusion and joy, as he sends his lovers and Bottom into the magical forest of Athens to meet The King and Queen of the fairies. Because this is a comedy where magic and imagination rule the day, all ends well and as Puck says ‘Jack shall have Jill, Nought shall go ill.’ Performances are set for March 23, 24, 25, 30, 31 and April 1. Formed in 1972 when The Amateur Community Theatre (mostly Americans) and British Bangkok Dramatic Society joined forces to shape the current theatre organisation. BCT is the largest and longest funning English language community theatre group in Thailand! A Christmas Carol, Cabaret, DeathTrap, Blithe Spirit, Honk,
Jack and the Beanstalk, Anne are just a few of the varied productions that have been staged in the past. Over the last year we presented (I think I’ve left one out) Almost Maine, Art and Aladdin. BCT is an all volunteer, non-profit organisation and has members from all parts of the globe. All of BCT’s shows depend on volunteers to help are on the production team, props, set design, costumes, light and sound, front of house and backstage crews, publicity, fundraising and more. On stage, back stage or front of house, BCT has a place for anyone who would like to participate.
For full details on BCT and all of their shows and activities, login to their website: www.bangkokcommunitytheatre.com or find them on Facebook.
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
79
Expat Stories
Lost but not forgotten by Phyllis Ansusinha
Robbed. There, I’ve said it. Through every emotion from joy to envy, I’ve finally spoken my secret truth. Robbed of nearly twenty years of ageing parents to guide me, scold me, and watch them journey into their golden years. But the other truth is that not having to factor them in made my decision to live the expat life much easier. Losing my parents in my thirties was such a loss to me. They were barely retired, in their sixties when the harshness of life’s diseases took them fairly swiftly from us. Lung cancer took my mother in a six week battle that to this day has traumatised me; I’ve seen much death in my life but I had never been hands on in what was the brutalist fight with a beast that tore her body apart and we could do nothing about it. The silent killer. My father would leave us two years
80
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
later from a heart issue that should have taken him more than twenty years before. Gone were the moments of sharing their grandchildren’s highlights at school and in their extra curricular activities. Gone was my dad singing “the pitter, pitter patter of tiny little feet” at each announcement of a new grandchild or great grandchild. Gone was my mom’s home canned pickles and jams and her spicy little attitude that kept us all on our toes. Gone was the maverick father who was a cross between John Wayne and Clint Eastwood while lending Paul Newman good looks, sending all the little elderly women in our small town into a hot tizzy. Gone was the love and pride they felt for us, the ongoing support in parenting our own brood, the support and advice in life’s sometimes major nuances. They were not there for my children’s graduations, my children’s personal adult decisions that are sometimes filled with elation and sometimes filled with pain, my bitter long divorce, meeting my soulmate whom I know they would have been so proud to have as a family member. They just missed it all. Yes, I know, they were with me through my formative years, shouldn’t I be happy for that? Jealous, yes jealous I’ve been. I’ve been envious as I’ve watched how cute my in laws and former in laws are when they try to comprehend the fast paced changes in technology. My heart feels a pang when I hear that someone’s parents are coming to visit in Thailand and see Asia for the first time. While I doubt we would have gotten
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
my mother on a plane to come here, my father would have been here in a heartbeat. His uncanny ability to remember historical facts, even without ever using the internet, he seemed to always be up on world news and he never forgot a thing. He knew all about Thailand and its King, the accomplishments of the Thai King long before I ever would have thought I would someday be here. My heart aches but yet it smiles, smiles knowing that they would be so happy for me right now. They would be proud of each of their family members who’ve moved along with furthering their education past high school as that was not an easy thing in their time, or really even mine. They would beam at the accomplishments of their grandchildren’s careers and their own growing families. They would think the fact that I am living in Asia and seeing the world “kick-ass”. That life’s constraints did not get the best of me would be the greatest gift I could give them. Now? Now as I see my expat companions, my cousins, my classmates, all struggling with the onset of ageing parents and its debilitating issues, perhaps I have changed my tune. It’s been a difficult year of blown out joints needing replaced, dementia, astronomical medical bills, assisted living, nursing homes, living wills, funerals planned from afar, and expensive emergency trips back to their home countries, decisions that
have to be made. I’ve had to be a part of it with my husband’s parents, one parent who prefers to spend most of their time in the USA and one who prefers their homeland of Thailand. How do we balance our time between the two of them as their needs reoccur more frequently? What do we do when they simply cannot live on their own anymore? Was it a disguised gift perhaps? Am I one of the lucky ones? Were they? They often asked us not to keep them alive just for us, they didn’t want to live if it meant they couldn’t enjoy life’s basic needs and elements. Forever sixty and vibrant, that’s how I will always remember them. I won’t ever know what it would be like for them to be unable to feed themselves, to sleep the days away, unable to communicate, unable to stroll through their colourful gardens and country roads. Yes they passed while still in the prime of their life and I’ve missed so much with them but I am grateful, grateful that they left this world their way. I hear the whisper of their voices every now and again, I smell them when I sit and meditate and I feel their excitement as I experience something new in the world. They are still with me, I’m sure of it; whether it’s spiritually, an energy, or just a molecular piece of matter, they stay with me.
Phyllis Ansusinha: President American Women’s Club of Thailand Health and Fitness coach, PN level 1 Nutrition, specialising on ageing population, metabolic training Options of healthcare for ageing parents in America often depletes them of their entire savings and assets. Please explore the idea of “wellness” for them while they are still agile and in good health as well as sound mind. Physical activity can improve osteoporosis, heart health, blood pressure, and blood sugar issues such as diabetes type 2 which is also known as adult onset diabetes. It also improves their mental wellbeing. Providing continued relationship opportunities will help with their mindset as well since social interactions can stimulate emotional support and brain function. It is also never too late for the benefits of good nutrition, balanced healthy meals and avoidance of high unhealthy fat intake, and over processed foods will help the organs function at their best ability.
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
81
Expat Stories
by Elisabeth Alidou
Christmas, two cultures, one spirit by Elizabeth Alidou
It was three years ago when I last celebrated Christmas with my family in Bangkok. I thought that I would feel homesick without white Christmas, beautiful show windows of Galleria Lafayette in Paris, flashing Christmas trees and the shopping rush. However, I found Bangkok looks life a fairy wonderland with all the creative lighting and various festivities
82
February/March 2017
happening around the city. Even though Christmas is not a traditional holiday in Thailand they brightly mark the holiday season. One thing I was always struck with was the fact that the streets are often the extension of Thai houses. Sometimes it looks like a theatre stage and you are a spectator watching the play called “life” with real people as actors in it. You can call it curiosity or voyeurism but it is hard not to be tempted to look at what is happening inside. On the 24th it was nice to see some Thai families wearing Christmas red and white hats seating around tables and celebrating this nonBuddhist holiday in their own way. This respect to Christmas was proven by the rich decorations in Siam
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
Paragon and other shopping malls. Several days ago my friends sent me photographs of the golden and white lighting and the huge Christmas tree in front of the CentralWorld. From what I could see this year’s ornaments are more sober than usually due to the recent tragic event of passing away of his Majesty the King of Thailand. But still the feeling from these pictures are bright and joyful. I think that being happy is in Thai people’s nature even during difficult periods in life. In Paris Christmas markets are endless and offer nice products of the French gastronomy like hot mulled wine, potatoes with melted cheese, dried ham but also handicrafts. This year I went to the Champs Elysées
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
“Look,
it’s a Christmas tree! Why did she bring it from home to the airport?”
market where you can take a ride on the Ferris wheel, and ice skate on a 1600m giant ice rink. If you go to Strasbourg you can enjoy a view of about 300 chalets located in the heart of the city. This market is considered as one of the oldest and largest one in Europe. Local bakers, winemakers, farmers and artisans brewers let you discover the traditional products. It is a pleasure to taste and talk with them about their passion. You might say that this is all a bit commercial where people spend money on food and presents. Indeed, it looks like that and I can feel it by my own wallet becoming much lighter after visiting these places. However, it is much more a tradition kept alive through the centuries during this sacred moment of the year. I have never spent one single Christmas without my family and hope it will stay this way for a long time. We always remind ourselves of the real meaning of this celebration - the birth of Jesus Christ. We also love it because it is the best reason to get reunited despite
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
what part of the world we live and work at this particular moment. We all gather around the table remembering the best times of the year and plans for the future with its new challenges, people and adventures. Of course there is a major contrast between Europe and Thailand festive times, between a winter fairy tales of the Grimm brothers and James Bond ventures on the busy streets and canals of Bangkok. Back to France we used to have a real Christmas tree every year and that became a tradition. Right now, while I am writing this article I am on flight to Bangkok with my Christmas tree in the plane’s luggage storage. I can guaranty you that people give me all kind of strange and curious looks when they see me carrying a tree on my shoulder. Some children shout to their parents at Charles de Gaulle airport: “Look, it’s a Christmas tree! Why did
she bring it from home to the airport?” Some people gave me broad smiles because it gave them a taste of festive time and others just laughed because they found it a bit absurd. Of course I brought French delicacies with me. Living in France for a long time it is difficult to imagine this party without foie gras, Champagne, French cheese and chocolate truffles. I am in love with the street food in Thailand but we need those little ingredients of happiness for our Christmas gathering. Last year I even brought a machine producing artificial snowflakes from France to make it feel more like home. My parents became kids again, they stared at the snow for an hour with indelible smile on their faces. Thai people passing by our house were even more astonished. It is undeniable, Christmas has a lot to do with nostalgia. Our heads are filled with our individual memories and senses. But what is united for everybody is that Christmas is a synonym of joy and relief. Whatever tough moments you had in the year they all step back in front of this sacred and cheerful holy day.
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
83
FAMILY and RELATIONSHIPS
A family affair by Meghan Lynch
From their time during the years of courtship in the United States where they met in DC through a designer friend, Mike and Piyada (a Thailand native) have always been on the edge of fashion, the edge of art and design. Mike an art director in DC and Piyada a graphic designer began to create their future for themselves with a few things in mind. After the horror of 9/11 many Americans around the country found themselves at a crossroad, a turning point, a wake up call had been made. Some quit jobs, asked that woman they'd love for years to marry them, told that friend they lost touch with 5 years back, they were sorry and asked to see them. For Mike, he decided to take a break from his job as a graphic designer and figure out what it was he wanted to do with his life. He and Piyada moved in together, the first step taken and then the next, they bought a house in Baltimore, Maryland and tried to settle down. They got married, they had a house, they were happy. Mike had begun his online company that creates fonts. Life goals started to become set and they both had travel and life experience on their lists. They began to travel around the United States and look at other places to live to see what else was out there for them. One flight home from San Francisco, Mike said to Piyada, what if we moved to Thailand, back to Bangkok. Piyada was surprised, and then not. Mike had enjoyed their holidays there since they were dating. There was an appeal for her to return, to be with
84
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
her family again, she had no full time job at that point and, they could travel more freely around Asia and beyond. And just like that they began the process. She moved first, to plan her wedding with her family, get them settled in. Mike followed a few months later in 2007. For the first few years they started a new chapter unfolded. Mike focusing on his company, and Piyada found herself back in school, for fashion design. She opened a shop, selling her clothes. Then, she got pregnant. The journey was longer than hoped and sensitive so they decided to make that the main focus, a calm and peaceful pregnancy. She closed the shop and just as the door closed, she joined Mike as an assistant in his newly registered Thai company. In 2011 Alpha, her first born son came into their world. A beautiful mix of American and Thai genes, Alpha is a dark haired, dark eyed boy. During the early months of taking on motherhood and all its new experiences and challenges there was one thing that stood out for Piyada about her son. That was, the comments, the attention, the business cards handed to her, the countless times she was stopped
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
on the street to have her son stared at and said how beautiful, cute, gorgeous her, “firstborn” (like the meaning of his name) son was. After some time she decided to call a friend she knew whose child modelled. She called the oldest and truest modelling agency in Thailand called Candy Group Modelling. Just as their journey together had taken them thus far, they took time, didn’t put any pressure on it, when the time was right they would take him in to be photographed as Piyada was told when she spoke to the Modelling Agency. At 7 months old, during the flooding in Bangkok, Piyada and Alpha spent time at the malls and on one certain day, she took him to be photographed after a wake from a nap he was as happy as a lark. That certain day happened to be a The Drypers, (a diapers brand) casting call for a commercial and advert for his age group. Some time later there they were with 100 other kids who were talented, experienced. Piyada took it all with ease and a cool like attitude, no expectation. For she knew it would be a long shot, so her phone call to see if he’d been chosen was taken with a shock. She was the last one to call, it was at the bottom of her to do list and she was the mother of the son who’d been chosen! Chosen he was.
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
That’s where it all began, a model for Drypers, led to signings with Infagrow and Dumex, very popular formula for babies were Alpha’s first jobs. Alpha’s career as a model has a fun, no pressure appeal. His parents say it has taught him some really good tools in life. Patience while waiting for his turn for the walkway, or the camera. To listen to other adults, to follow directions. He is nearly 6 and a bright eyed boy who is quiet and shy, that too like the meaning of his name, he has a quiet confidence. In his Mom’s eyes and words, Piyada tells me how, “he grows with the process, he chooses what he wants to do, he’s more independent.” She says she is trying to raise a normal child, who wants to play and not have to be told what to do and where to stand and how to smile. When he gets that way, she talks to him, asks him questions if he’s happy doing what he is doing, he always says yes even if at times he finds himself wearing something he might feel funny in. She assures him he looks great and hopes to help build up the confidence we all long for in our children. There is an added piece to this family, a daughter, a sister, Beta. Born December of 2015, has taken her role into the family hobby and naturally taken her spot in front of the camera. Piyada said she too enjoys it at this small age and they are having fun with seeing her in little girlie clothes, headbands and glitter and gold. While both children now shine on ads and magazine stands, on floors labels at department stores both Mike and Piyada support them and guide them as cool and calm natured as you can possibly be. Proving the apple is never far from the tree. EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
85
FAMILY and RELATIONSHIPS
Family eating in the New Year by Karla Walter
It’s the beginning of another year. Depending on where you come from, the 1st of January is the New Year, or for the Chinese New Year, the end of January. The Thai New Year comes in April. Plans are made during the year for such events as meetings, holidays, retreats, school activities, changing schools, moving house, moving countries, new jobs, the list goes on. How many people plan for their health in the coming year with healthy meals and stay with that plan for the whole year. I’m not talking about a fad diet or a quick fix, but a plan for you and your family’s health. What might this health plan look like? For example, take one week a month and make a plan for healthy meals. The first month might be to plan for 5 - 7 evening meals. No need to make the meals complicated or try to cook with ingredients you cannot find in Thailand. I have always said if you can read you can cook. The internet has an endless supply of recipes. Cookbooks are available in all countries and languages. This can be a way of getting the whole family involved to discuss what are healthy meals and how easy they can be to prepare. Once you have chosen your recipes, plan which week they will be prepared and make your shopping list. Shop with the attitude of bringing joy into your life by being organised and the pleasure of the family together for the evening meals. Having a meal plan is about reducing the stress of, “What do I make for dinner, or staring endlessly into the refrigerator for inspiration”. When you look at your meal plan for the week, make sure you have a variety of dishes. Keep in mind protein from fish, meat or chicken. If a vegetarian dish, legumes and grain make up the protein. Did you know that the variety of vegetables, salads and fruits is higher at home than when eating out? Families that eat at home have a higher intake of iron, calcium, fibre, vitamins, B-6, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin E and less saturated fats. Cook extra to have frozen homemade meals for other nights during the month.
86
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
Here are a few suggestions: 1. Thai rice noodle salad
“It
has become clear that cooking is a healthy behaviour.”
2. Steamed fish with rice salad or stir fried vegetables
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
3. Thai Chicken cakes with chilli sauce and salad
4. Pasta (salad or a hot dish)
5. Mushroom risotto
Another plan is to use one ingredient that you have never thought of eating and see what you can come up with. Whatever it is you choose to do, not only include your family but friends as well. Many people feel that their friends are also part of their family. Ask your friends to make a dish with this new ingredient and see what everyone comes up with. The next month, choose five days of breakfast meals that you make, or a family member is willing to prepare. This starts to include other family members who are old enough to cook and teaches them skills for the future. Perhaps plan a cooking class with the family and discover who may have the spark to become a chef. Bangkok and other towns in Thailand have fantastic cooking classes and schools. Research as far back as 2012 (National Centre on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University), has shown that children are less likely to participate in drugs and alcohol when eating at home and being in a family environment. The survey also showed that children tended to get better grades at school and were generally happier with life. Another area of research published in Public Health Nutrition a Cambridge University journal found that frequent cooking at home increased life span by 10 years. Factors that were taken into consideration were, cooking habits, household circumstances, shopping habits, diet, education, transportation and smoking. They followed 1,888 men and women over 65 for 10 years. At the end of the study they matched lifestyle answers to the 1,193 participants were still alive. “It has become clear that cooking is a healthy behaviour,” said lead author Professor Mark Wahlqvist in a statement. “It deserves a place in lifelong education, public health policy, urban planning and household economics.” When we plan just a few meals it is easy to implement. Choosing five days is not an overwhelming task. Start with simple steps and let it grow into a regular part of your health plan. What are the flavours and foods that inspire you to get cooking? Karla Walter Nutritionist and Health Coach www.living557.com Karla has completed extensive studies in Homeopathy, Nutrition, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Macrobiotics, Shiatsu Massage, Vegetarian cooking, Human Bio Science. She has been changing lives through private counselling, public lecturing and teaching around the world. She understands the complex relationship between the nutritional value of food and reactions on the body both physically and emotionally. She is a powerhouse of knowledge and enthusiasm.
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
87
Health and fitness
Floating away by Alex Bannard
Invited to sample a floatation experience, Alex experiences bliss like never before. The lovely people at Theta Float Centre invited me and a friend to sample their floatation chamber, so with my jet lagged bestie, who was visiting us in Bangkok, along for the ride we went to see what it was all about. We were met by McKee, a charming and extremely personable partner in this enterprise, who engaged us in conversation of all things floatation, holistic and Bangkok to the less charming but equally engaging, if not distracting back drop of CNN broadcasting the US election results. If this wasn’t the perfect day to escape from the stresses of modern day living for 90 minutes what was? The staff showed us the ropes or to be more precise the floatation room. We had opted for the room over the pod sensing as first timers it would be less daunting. There is, it has to be said something slightly daunting about going into a room, locking away the world outside, lying in a shallow, warm, pool of highly salted water in the pitch black and the staff answered all our questions and reassured us in an utterly professional and calming fashion.
88
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
And then it began: the pool is lit and music played for the first 5 minutes to allow you to bring your attention inwards, focus only on the music or your breath. It is perfect as it eases you into the experience gently. It is completely up to you when you turn the lights off, if indeed you do, I did. The salty water totally holds your body in the water enabling you to completely relax. I have to say it took me several minutes to feel comfortable with a small foam circular headrest to allow my neck to completely relax reassured that salty water would not slosh into my ears or face but once I did I could feel where I had been holding that tension in my neck and let go. The water is body temperature warm and again initially as I got used to the sensation, the tiniest bit of my body which was above the water felt chillier but it literally doesn’t last for long, just allow yourself to let go, to trust in the process and to just be. It is very easy just to let go and be: the room is totally soundproof so there is no indication about what is going on outside, the darkness and warmth are reassuring.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
Some say it reminds us of being in the womb, a sense of security and peace. And before I knew it I was not aware of anything … and then who knows how much longer later I was again aware of my surroundings and wondered if I had dozed off. I became aware of feeling like my body was moving towards the right but I never touched the sides of the tank. So then I started to play a bit, moving myself around to touch the edges. Then it just felt like the ‘right’ time to turn on the lights. It took me a while to find the switch and then to work out how to use it and as I was getting myself out, the music, which comes on during the final minutes to bring you back to the here and now, came on. My 90 minutes had gone by in a flash. After showering I noticed how heavenly soft my skin felt: no body wash, no moisturiser, just the effects of the magnesium salts working on my skin. But the most noticeable effect for me was the state of absolute bliss I felt. Completely at ease, peaceful, relaxed, revived and refreshed; if the effect on my skin was heavenly, the effect on my mind was divine. I have yet to return for another go to see what the experience is like once you understand more what to expect. Although of course having no expectations must surely be the best way to enter the tank every time. But I will return and I am keen to compare the first time experience to the second time and I will also try the pod next time. Many people use floatation tanks not just for relaxation, the lack of outside distractions is extremely effective for nourishing creative ideas and problem solving. The experience helped Vicky with her jet lag. There are other benefits too: the magnesium sulphates help to detoxify, regulate blood pressure, insulin production and enzymes
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
in the body. The freedom from gravity helps reduce inflammation and increases vitality. Floating brings benefits to insomnia, depression, anxiety, hypertension, arthritis, some even believe it slows the ageing process. Reducing the stress on the brain of the constant bombarding of the senses helps the brain self-regulate and self-heal. The experience triggers the relaxation response, which is the same effect we are aiming for in meditation, which lowers the frequency of the rhythm of the waves in the brain to what is known as theta brain waves. This activates the right side of the brain increasing brain functionality, creativity and insight whilst generating that powerful sense of flow, where time just disappears because we are so engaged and present with what we are doing we don’t notice time passing by. That same feeling I experienced at the end of my float, not knowing how long I had been there – it felt like forever and no time at all. The fight or flight response is calmed, balancing adrenal activity and strengthening the mind body connection, increasing self-awareness. So there are many benefits beyond the overwhelming sense of calm, peace, relaxation, bliss and just being and I simply cannot recommend it more highly. In fact the effects were so powerful, that on returning to the ‘real world’ and the alarming and shocking news that Trump had been elected President, a sense of acceptance that what can we as mere mortals do about this abhorrent news. Followed by a strong sense of hope that it will be the catalyst for much needed change in the corrupt, unjust, unethical political systems around the world … but there I go getting distracted and sucked in. Just be people and float, just float and be.
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
89
FEATURES
Ransomware by Bernard Collins
There is a great chance that you heard of a friend who had his computer locked up and had to pay a hefty sum to get a decryption key to recover his own data. This ever increasing criminal activity is taking massive proportions and reaches from single home users to the largest sophisticated organisation. There is not a single week in this past 9 months when we did not have a call from a computer user asking help to decrypt his hard drive or file server …
ran·som·ware ('ransəm we(ə)r/): noun ' a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid. "although ransomware is usually aimed at individuals, it's only a matter of time before business is targeted as well"
But in fact, how bad is it and what are the risks? This past year has seen some of the most devastating cyber-attacks and highly profitable ransomware for the perpetrators. They added up to astronomical costs for the companies and individuals that got caught. Despite the resistance to give in to the threat, some had no choice but pay extremely high value ransoms. The healthcare business was particularly targeted with ransoms in the thousands of US Dollars, paid in bitcoins to
90
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
recover access to their patient data, which in some cases were vital as their lives could have been at risk. Despite the increase in monitoring software and serious deployment of sophisticated automated technology with the latest generation of firewalls, anti-virus, intrusion detection, web traffic filtering and so on, specially crafted spear phishing attacks ultimately reached their high value target. But low value targets were also in the line of fire.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
Automated phishing targets anyone and the ransom is proportional to the size of the business. A home user or some very small companies got away with paying 0.99 bitcoin (mind you, today this means 700USD, not an insignificant amount), some got hit with a higher number, but it is always costly, a serious waste of time and energy, lots of frustration and stress, and you never know if you will get your data back, even if you pay. Moreover, even if you think you are clean and it’s over, there is no guarantee they haven't left a backdoor and won't be coming back for more ... Most of these problems have occurred because of a false sense of security, making people believe that their latest computer with sophisticated software was immune to attack and subsequent infections. There is nothing worse than a feeling of security when in fact you remain prone to infection, hacker attacks and virus of all sorts with a potential to create havoc on your computer.
My enduring advice on computer security:
“Do not solely rely on technology or systems to resist hackers, your first and best line of defence should always be your awareness and vigilance! Technology will assist and can also help in the recovery after a case of damage but first make sure your employees are trained to react appropriately..� www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
In many cases, we must admit the failure of the legacy perimeter defences to identify and stop the most basic phishing attacks. There is also an added serious risk that sooner or later one unprepared employee will click on a tempting email link that will bypass the lines of defence. Hackers are now adapting their email subject lines making it impossible to preemptively block them. Is ransomware slowing down? Not really, and we are trying to predict what's cooking for this 2017. Analysts are observing the skyline as the demise of Dyre malware in 2015 and evolution in 2016 seem to indicate a preparation of something far more dangerous. The next wave will probably propagate through worms crawling from site to site and disk to disk, and stay dormant for a long time before emerging. Which indicates that the last line of defence, the backup needs to seriously increase its coverage to keep data history unaffected. History of Backup allows you to go back in time to a version of the data without malware ... but how much recent development will you have lost? A serious preparation for all companies is paramount, and it is not clear how the next attack will develop.
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
91
FEATURES
The most disturbing trends are now: •P hishing emails are smarter with adaptive subject lines •P hishing emails are sent from friends who got infected •P hishing emails use fake company names targeting those close to you •W orms will stay dormant for longer limiting the capacity to recover
It is certain that mobile technology is the prime target as it is so pervasive in everyone's life. Some employees don't even have a PC anymore and manage their e-life on their phone with a bigger screen. As a result, most IT managers have lost total control and are desperate in their attempt to protect the company's network and assets. New tools are being developed, new defences are being crafted and it is a race with time to get a response as quickly as possible when the next threat emerges. Companies must deploy the latest technology for their peripheral protection and sharpen their intrusion detection tools, with a strong emphasis on behavioural analysis. However, is it available to all? And at what cost? Your chances of surviving an attack will increase with the amount of sophistication you can afford for your periphery but the first line of defence remains your awareness, and in a corporate environment, the education of your staff.
What you need to do: Be aware, be prepared, always make sure you have a recent backup of your data and a series of older, with history. If you have a business, train your staff, show them what phishing is, explain trojans and worms, and consult with a competent security company to reduce the risks. Be prepared if you get hit, so the damage is limited and you can recover without paying up. Remember that a backup is not a copy of your hard drive, because if you copy an un-activated malware, you have an infected copy as well. Backup means: •A utomated, or you will forget it when it was critical … •H as a history so you can go back in time before the infection occurred •B e stored remotely, not in the same place as the original data •E ncrypted if your data is sensitive •N ot on a connected remote drive that could also get encrypted … Always be aware of the threat and expect the worse so you are prepared to survive any incident. The government is not close to catching the bad guys, they are potentially far away and extremely well organised, so you need to take your security very seriously.
Bernard Collins is the CEO of SafeComs, a security firm based in Bangkok. He started SafeComs in 1999 in Australia and throughout his life consulted with large businesses in Europe and in Australia. His company has been awarded numerous prizes including SIPA (Software Industry Promotion Agency) in Thailand for creative software development.
92
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
FAMILY and RELATIONSHIPS
Fun, fit, family by Tara Conrad
Over the past several years there has been an epidemic surging through the United States. That epidemic is obesity, but not just obesity in adults, it is also making appearance in young children. Thailand has also been impacted by obesity. Children as young as 2 years old are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, which used to be referred to as ‘Adult Onset Diabetes’. As our world develops and we become busier and busier, having home cooked meals with our family, eating healthy and exercise become more and more difficult to fit into a hectic lifestyle. How can your family break out of the unhealthy loop and into a healthy lifestyle that will not only help you fight the battle of the bulge, but also promote positive habits that will last you and your family a lifetime? Read on! Getting healthy can’t be done alone, this is where the family comes in, if one family member is trying to get healthy, everyone should get involved. Families should look at their schedules and make family dinners a priority. Sitting down and eating dinner actually promotes healthy eating. A Harvard medical study suggest that families who eat together have a higher intake of fruits and vegetables and a lower intake of fried foods and sodas. Family dinners also have a positive impact on our emotions. Sharing and socialising helps alleviate stress and promotes positive attitudes, not only in adults but also in teenagers and younger children as well.
Exercising together is a fantastic way to get the whole family moving. Sign up for a family fun run here in Bangkok. Work out a schedule where you can train together on the weekends. There is a great website that lists all the runs that are happening here in Bangkok and beyond! http://www. runthailand.com/thailand-running-events-2016/ If running isn’t your thing, perhaps join an exercise class together, or sign up for some tennis lessons, Muay Thai or yoga, make it a priority. You will all feel better for it and this challenge of working hard and trying something new will bring your family closer together. Turn off the devices. I know this is easier said than done, but to really make a change and get moving you need to shut off your iPads and close down your computers. The first step in making this happen is usually the adults choice, they have to put down their phones and make interacting a priority, then our children will follow suit. Limit device usage to scheduled times and no smartphones at the dinner table! No matter what someone might tell you, parent’s - you have the largest influence on your children’s diet and lifestyle, no matter what you might think or how you believe peers influence might be stronger. Studies show that parent’s who have healthy lifestyles will have children who have healthy lifestyles. So the responsibility falls to you. Start by accomplishing the 3 simple goals above and you and your family are certainly on your way to getting healthy and feeling great! Larimore, Walt, MD, Flynt, Sherri, Super Sized Kids, How to rescue your child from the obesity threat. 2005
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
93
FAMILY and RELATIONSHIPS
Marriage breakdown and divorce in Thailand for foreigners by Philip Sweeney
Unhappily the breakdown of marriages appears to be on the rise in virtually every country in the world. As an expat living in Thailand, regardless of whether married to a Thai or another foreigner, one of the first questions that will arise is whether it is possible to get divorced in Thailand in the event of that situation arising whilst living here. The answer quite simply is yes, provided that either you or your spouse are currently residing within the Kingdom of Thailand. It is possible to apply for an uncontested divorce in the District Office (“Amphur�) where the parties married. If however the parties did not marry in Thailand, it is a slightly more complicated situation, and an Administrative Divorce may not be possible. It should also be noted that for such an Administrative Divorce to take place there can be no disputes arising over financial, maintenance, property or children matters. If there are assets to be divided, maintenance to be paid or child custody matters to be resolved, then the parties can themselves negotiate the terms of such financial or child settlement which should then be registered at the same time as the divorce. If no agreements can be reached then the application for divorce will have to be made through the courts. A divorce through the courts is possible, provided that one of the parties has grounds for taking proceedings, regardless of where the parties were married. The grounds for divorce are set out in the Thai Civil and Commercial Code and can be briefly summarised as follows:
94
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
1. The husband has taken another woman as his wife 2. The wife has committed adultery 3. A 3 year period of separation 4. One spouse has deserted the other for over one year 5. One spouse is guilty of misconduct (criminal or otherwise) 6. One spouse has been imprisoned for more than one year 7. One spouse has physically or mentally harmed the other 8. Lack of marital support 9. One spouse has had incurable insanity for at least 3 years 10. One spouse has broken the bond of good behaviour 11. One spouse has an incurable communicable disease 12. One spouse has a physical disability so as to be unable to cohabit as husband or wife. Any one of the above grounds has to be proved if the divorce is contested. The Thai Family Courts will be able to deal with disputes arising over assets, maintenance/alimony and child custody matters. It is important to note that Thailand is a Community Property jurisdiction which means that when a couple divorce, assets and property which was acquired before
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
marriage remains the property, generally, of the original owner. Whereas assets and property acquired during the marriage are regarded, generally, as community property. The courts will however look at all the circumstances of the case and will divide property in accordance not just with the law, but also the particular facts of the individual case. It is however possible, where agreement is reached by the parties, for the terms of any such settlement to be those arrived at and agreed by the divorcing parties and not therefore rigidly following the normal division of assets as stipulated by law. Notably, if the parties have entered into a pre-nuptial agreement then the division of assets will likely follow the provisions of that agreement. Another fact to note is that debts incurred before marriage remain the responsibility of the party incurring the debt, but debts incurred during marriage are normally the responsibility of both parties. The procedure for commencing divorce proceedings is that a complaint is filed with the Thai Family Court setting out the grounds relied upon and the proposed division of assets, amount of maintenance sought and the proposals for child custody. That complaint will be served upon the respondent party, and a time limit is given to respond. All documents are prepared and served on the court in the Thai language. It is therefore important to ensure that all such documents are translated into the native language of the affected parties. A date for a preliminary hearing will be set by the court, this is usually within 45 days of the application being made. On this day the court will set a timetable and issue directions for the case to proceed, if contested, or can pronounce a decree of divorce if not. It should be noted that Thai Family courts are strongly in favour of mediation and so are very likely to postpone the case at this juncture for the parties to attend before a Court Mediation Judge. It is to be hoped by the court at this stage, that if there is to be any chance of saving
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
the marriage, then the parties be allowed this opportunity to do so. Also, even if the divorce is to proceed, either contested or by agreement, the court prefers the parties to address the issues concerning assets, maintenance and children at this stage. The final outcome depends whether the grounds put forward by one party are contested by the other or acceded to. If contested, then evidence will be heard and the judge will make a decision based upon the evidence. The ancillary matters concerning financial and children matters will then be adjudicated upon. If disputes arise concerning arrangements for the children, then the court will appoint a court welfare officer to become involved in seeking a resolution to such issues. Will a divorce in Thailand be recognised in your own country? The answer to that question is yes, and that applies to a divorce ordered by a Thai court or a divorce registered through a district office. The principle for this is based upon the international law term known as “Comity� (courtesy and considerate behaviour toward others). Matters may however become more complicated if the divorce involves the division of property held overseas. Generally Thai courts will not get involved if there is a dispute over such property, they may however, make an order if the division of overseas assets is agreed by the parties. However difficulties may arise in enforcing such an order in a foreign jurisdiction. Philip Sweeney is a qualified Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales with over 30 years experience. He is the Director of Opus Law International and can be contacted by email at p.sweeney@opus-law.com, www.opus-law.com
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
95
Travel
Alsace
The white wine region of France. by Agneta de Bekassy
Alsace lies on the west bank of the river Rhine, between the Rhine and the Vosges mountains. It shares a boarder with Germany to the south with German speaking Switzerland and to the west with Lorraine. Alsace is divided into two regions, the Lower Rhine known as Bas Rhin with its capital Strasbourg and the upper Rhine called Haute Rhin with its capital Colmar. Alsace has, during the years, been passed from Germany to France and back again, today it belongs to France. Most people in Alsace or Elsass, as you would say in German, speak and understand Alsacian, which is a dialectal form of German. Alsace is one of the most charming regions of France with its small villages of brightly painted steep roofed, half
96
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
timbered houses. You will see houses painted in all colours of the rainbow, from sunny yellow to a deep blue. The style is known as ‘Alsacian’. The region capital is Strasbourg. Strasbourg is known for its yearly Christmas market ‘Christkindlmarkt’ the largest, oldest and most traditional Christmas market in Europe. Alsace has always been world famous for its white wines. Sylwaner, Riesling and the sweeter Gewürztraminers, are the most popular. These wines are not produced elsewhere in France, but are found in some German wine growing regions. These white wines are most often served in small glasses with green stems. When you visit Alsace, follow the clearly marked ‘Alsace Wine Route’ and explore the small villages of Niedermorschwir and Tuckheim, which don’t see the tourists who flock to the larger towns of Colmar and Strasbourg. Here you will find typical Alsacian houses and many small wine producers offering degustation (tasting) and selling wine by the bottle. In addition to Sylwaner, Riesling and Gewurtstraminer, the Cremant wines are highly popular. Cremants are the sparkling wines of Alsace. Most of the vineyards produce their own Cremants in at least, 60 different varieties … well worth tasting. Beyond this, Alsace is well known for its beers including Kronenburg and Meteor. When it comes to food, I suggest that you try a “Choucroute” (Sauer cabbages) and a Flammenkueche, a traditional dish that is not unlike a pizza, but much finer, crispier and without tomatoes. The cheeses and pate pastries are spectacular in both their wide selection and quality ….. the pate pastries are mouthwatering. Be sure to try the various pastries and soft salted pretzels during your stay. The townspeople in Alsace are friendly and down to earth. At the end of September and throughout October, they gather together to harvest the grapes. As far as you can see the hills of Alsace are covered with vineyards. Last year the harvest started late, as the weather had been mild and dry. Alsace is concentrated on the food and wines that provide its livelihood.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
Alsacian wines are exported to almost every country today and the prices for an Alsacian wines abroad are higher than other wines. Many of the local wineries are small; family owned operations and produce 20,000 bottles or less to sell to locals and tourists. If you are a wine lover I highly recommend a visit to Alsace. If you can, visit at the end of September or October, when the tourist season has slowed and head for the smaller towns where you will find the authentic Alsace. As a side note I found a wonderful gourmet restaurant ‘Auberge Le Bouc Bleu’ in the little village of Beblenheim.
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
This small restaurant, managed by a married couple, Marie-Pierre and her husband Daniel Freiss is a treasure. The husband is chef and his charming wife, greets and serves the guests. The menu lists five starters, 10 main courses and 4/5 desserts, all prepared with much love. The wines are provided by a small producer from the same village. I met a Swedish couple at the hotel where I stayed who had booked their trip specifically to dine at Le Bouc Bleu. When I met them, they had already spent three evenings enjoying Monsieur Freiss’s offerings. They happily described every dish to me.
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
97
Travel
I enjoyed a Rainbow trout, from a nearby river, as a starter followed by a duck with cranberry sauce and mashed potatoes …. cooked to perfection and so delicious. I choose a very dry Riesling to accompany my meal, a perfect match. If I was a dessert lover, I had a choice of tarte au pommes, a sweet chocolate cake and three more sweet and calorie rich temptations. The apple crumble was particularly inviting. When I return to Alsace, I will surely pay another visit to Le Bouc Bleu. If you are a lover of fly fishing, you can try your luck in the beautiful village of Kaysersberg. This little village was to me, one of the most picturesque villages. I couldn’t resist buying a freshly baked salty pretzel and some homemade jams to accompany a Munster cheese. If you would like to spend a night or more in Kaysersberg, one of the better hotels is the Chambard (www.lechambard.fr). The chef, Olivier Nasti, offers a wide variety of Alsacian specialties to include Le lobe de Foie Gras de Canard entire poche. Make it a point to try their Foie Gras. In Beblenheim, you will find the ‘Hotel Le Mandelberg’ which offers a spa with sauna, massage, solarium and an indoor pool. From the windows you have the most beautiful view overlooking the almond trees of the bottom of the hills. (www.hotelmandelberg.fr) I found the service at Le Mandelberg to be excellent. You must remember that all restaurants in Alsace only serve lunch until 2pm. I missed lunch on several occasions showing up at 2.15pm and had to snack on tarts and pretzels until the evening meal. Consider Alsace for your next European vacation.
98
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
Agneta de Bekassy is a wonderfully connected woman who literally knows everyone worth knowing in Bangkok. Elegant, sophisticated and the ultimate social butterfly, she conducts many of EL’s feature interviews and coordinates the social pages.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
Health and fitness
Your heart needs love too by Ror Alexander
At this time of year everyone talks a lot about their heart, but no one really gives it the respect it’s due. The heart is probably the hardest working muscle in your body, never resting, and hopefully never stopping for a quick break. But for interest sake, let’s look at some very interesting facts.
The average heart beats 70 times per minute, each pump ejecting about 70ml (2.5oz) of blood. This equates to roughly 6 litres of blood in only one minute, or 7,000 litres in one full day. Looking at the lifetime of the average heart, this equates to over 200 million
litres of blood, and a total of around 2.5 billion beats! Think about this. Do you know any other engine or pump on the planet that pumps or turns over 2.5 billion times without a breakdown, overheating or requiring maintenance? Probably not! So maybe it’s time to show our heart a little more love. Below I outline some simple actions to be aware of that can ensure a life long love affair with our heart. Optimised exercise Many people think that the best thing we can do to keep our heart happy and healthy is some cardio, and indeed they are correct, in a very broad sense. However typically, as we people do, we try to find the fastest and least time consuming fashion to get in our cardio and try to tell ourselves it’s all we need. Unfortunately, this is simply not true. What most people don’t know is that different aspects of the heart and body respond to different kinds of training, and to optimise our heart and to a larger extent our cardiovascular
100
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
health, we need to do a bit more than we ideally would like to think we do. Steady state cardio: This is the typical long distance, slower speed running that has fallen out of favour with the trendy fitness trainers, YouTube gurus and Instagram coaches. However it serves a very specialised purpose. Steady state training is the best exercise style to help increase the size of the left ventricle of the heart. With a bigger left ventricle, your heart can pump out more blood, or ‘increase stroke volume’. The result is a lower resting heart rate, and lower working heart rate. Both good things. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes twice per week. High intensity intervals training (H.I.I.T.): Typical H.I.I.T. helps the heart not by making the heart volume bigger and hold more blood as in steady state, but instead by increasing the thickness of the heart walls, leading to a harder contraction, or how powerfully the heart can beat. A more powerful beat means
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
a more forceful push of blood into the body. Aim for at least twice per week H.I.I.T. with bursts of all out effort for 20 seconds, followed by 40 - 60 seconds of low intensity effort repeated for about 12 - 20 minutes. There are other kinds of cardio training as well, that affect the body in different ways, increasing mitochondria, or activating different muscle type fibres, but for the general population, these 2 kinds are enough. Keep stress at bay The #1 killer in the western world is heart disease, and stress leads to more deaths each year than can be accounted for. The reason is stress releases excess cortisol, which is a hormone that deteriorates muscle tissue, and the heart is of courses a really important muscle. So we need to try our best to decrease stress, and in turn cortisol through activities like meditation (which I call Neurotation), yoga, breathing practices, getting into nature, or simple hobbies. Nutrition and supplements Following a diet high in coloured fruits and vegetables, limiting sugars, and toxic cooking oils is a must, as well as consuming healthy and lean meats and oily seafoods. However
there are also some supplements and natural additives that can be very heart healthy. Garlic: known as a powerful agent to help lower blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
CoQ10: an enzyme that is popularly used to help lower high blood pressure.
Fibre: yes, good old fibre. It has been found to help raise HDL, and lower LDL. Both good things. Omega 3 fish oils: best to get from fresh oily fish like wild caught salmon, fish oils have been very popular for a long time now for helping maintain a healthy heart. However, as with anything, there has been shadows cast on isolated fish oils recently, so try to get from eating actual fish. The sun: not typically considered a ‘supplement’, the sun does deliver a high boost of vitamin D production in our body. Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with increased cardiovascular risk factors. So maybe it’s time to finally hit that island get away weekend? Keep all this in mind, and going into the future keep your heart in mind. And if you want to give your special someone a treat, while giving your heart one as well, consider some dark chocolate this Valentines Day, as it’s also been shown to be great for heart health as well.
Ror Alexander Fitness – Nutrition – Lifestyle Consulting thriveLIFE Studios in Bangkok www.roralexander.com Follow him on Facebook, IG, and YouTube.
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
101
FEATURES
Public speaking by Andrew Maxwell
The late Christopher Hitchens, when asked by one of his students at the University of California, Berkeley for advice on how to write, responded with the question “before you try to write, ask yourself this: Can you speak? Yes? And when you speak, do others want to listen?”
“Before you try to write, ask yourself this: Can you speak? Yes? And when you speak, do others want to listen?.” Investment in people’s speaking skills has been very much neglected of late. Very few people are taught how to speak well and even fewer think to improve their oratory capabilities at all. We can all easily spot a great speaker and a poor speaker, but do we know what it is that separates the two? How can we learn to improve our own speaking skills? Heinrich Heine proclaimed that ‘a fool may talk, but a wise man speaks’. If you have ever caught yourself
102
February/March 2017
daydreaming during a presentation or struggling to follow a speech, it’s likely that the pontificator is merely talking, punctuating his twisted and long winded sentences with fillers and general disfluency. Linguistic research indicates that the overuse of such nonpathological disfluencies can provide a window into the speaker’s emotional state. It may not be a surprise to find that disjointed and chaotic speech is more likely to be delivered by those experiencing distraction and
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
an inability to focus. Stress may be a factor in this, although in certain people this can result in more succinct speech. In order to make sure you are fully focused on what you want to say, you need to prepare your body, not just your mind to deliver your thoughts and ideas. This means things like making sure you sleep well, get some exercise and control your breathing and levels of anxiety. Hitchens himself, usually renowned for his ruthless eloquence in debate, was occasionally found stumbling over his words when interviewed in the early mornings. One only needed to observe the dark circles under his eyes and his dishevelled hair to guess that he had been up into the early hours drinking, writing and repeating. If, like Hitchens, you can combine a readily accessible education with unfaltering logic and a rapier wit, you will undoubtedly be able to pull off giving speeches, presentations, debates and interviews with an obvious hangover. Many will still be impressed even though you are, in fact, winging it. Unfortunately, that is not the case for most of us. A good night’s sleep and a healthy body are pre-requisites for most oratory ventures. Don’t try to equate eloquence with wordiness. Use specialised vocabulary in order to convey precise meanings to an audience which can fully understand its meaning. If you are using jargon or ‘big words’ in order to impress your audience, you will fail, as
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
“A fool may talk, but a wise man speaks.”
will your message. Equally, keep any clarifying allusions to events which are readily accessible in the minds of your audience. Referencing the dispute between the German humanist Johann Reuchlin and the monk Johannes Pfefferkorn of the Dominican Order to an audience of investment bankers is not going to get them to write any cheques. Keep the message clear and concise – it will serve you well and you will be appreciated for it. Formulate your sentences before you speak, thus helping you to avoid contaminating your words with fillers and other oratory vomitus. Never be afraid to remain silent until you are ready. Your listeners will be thankful that you appear to be considering your words carefully rather than simply spraying your words around, shotgun like, in the hope that you will hit upon something worth hearing. Don’t reword and repeat your phrases unless for extra special emphasis. Shortening the length of your monologue increases the value of each word. Keep in mind the words of Cicero: ‘Brevity is a great charm of eloquence.’ Related to the first point about your emotional state is your confidence. Confidence in speaking can only be gained by practising. It is natural to
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
feel nervous and your audience knows that. Smile and think of something which brings joy into your life before you start. If you haven’t had much practice speaking publicly and feel intimated, let your audience know this. By presenting yourself as an underdog confronting a challenge you will gain both their emotional support and respect. Don’t speak too slowly and make eye contact with your listeners. If this is impossible due to the lighting arrangements, you will have to imagine some enthusiastic listeners to make eye contact with (often a much more pleasurable experience). In terms of preparation, it is worth doing a couple of trial runs in front of
the mirror. It is fine to keep notes to be used as prompts, but you should never insult your audience by reading from a script. You could simply have emailed them instead of wasting their time. Preparation over the longer term should involve plenty of reading and discussion in order to pick up vocabulary and build fluency. Lastly, if you can show your audience that you have an emotional connection with your words, you will have taken great strides towards winning them over. As Washington Irvine said, “There is an eloquence in enthusiasm that is not to be doubted.”
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
103
Health and fitness
Sun salutations by Alex Bannard images by Belinda Hornby
Sun salutations are the mainstay of any vinyasa yoga practice. This month Alex Bannard takes us through these dynamic poses, which can be practiced anytime, any place … very useful, you can do them anywhere. Vinyasa yoga is an energising style of yoga in which sun salutations are used to link standing poses to create a more fluid and challenging practice. Vinyasa means link or connection, taking you from where you are to somewhere else, gradually moving you in the right direction, connecting body, mind and breath. Surya Namaskara as sun salutations are known in Sanskrit connect the body and the breath, shifting the focus of the practice and thereby uniting mind, body and breath. They ignite the inner fire in the body and are commonly used as part of the warm up. They provide a complete work out, utilising every muscle, building strength, energising, working the heart and increasing circulation. Some say they are called sun salutations because they symbolise the sun’s warmth within our body. Other’s say they are so called because the best time to practice them is as the sun is rising. There is a specific energy associated with sunrise, making this the ideal time to practice. I have always believed if you were strapped for time doing several rounds of sun salutations followed by savasana provides the optimal workout for your body and mind available in limited time. And I always practice them when I am travelling. There are 3 kinds of sun salutations. I am going to take you through the beginner’s version, sun salutation C. Remember to move slowly and with awareness, breathing smoothly to enjoy the flowing movements.
104
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
Sun salutation C – Surya Namaskara C Many instructors have their own modified styles of Sun Salutation C, this is the style I practice. Tadasana Starting in tadasana, ground through the 4 corners of each foot, allowing the energy to travel up your legs, lifting the knee cap, engaging the quads, tucking in the bottom. Relax your shoulders away from your ears, face relaxed, hands at heart centre, enjoy a moment of stillness, gazing on your fingerstips. Reaching upwards Inhale as you reach the arms upwards and look up, reaching through the waist creating length. Folding forwards Exhale into forward fold. Relax the back of the neck, crown of the head towards the floor. Keep your knees very slightly bent to allow the spine to lengthen.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
Low lunge Step back with the right leg into a low lunge, placing the knee and front of the foot on the floor. Left leg is bent, lower into the pose to stretch the hip flexor and outer hip. Shoulders are relaxed away from the ears, face relaxed. Look up and breathe in. In this picture I have stepped back with the left leg, try and alternate which leg you lead with in each round to maintain balance in the body.
Lower As you exhale lower your knees and bring your chest down directly in between your hands, elbows tucked in, shoulders relaxed.
Plank Hold the breath as you step into plank. My shoulders are a little hunched in this picture, try and bring your shoulder blades together and down.
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
Low cobra Inhale as you sweep slightly forwards into low cobra, elbows remain slightly bent and tucked into the ribs, shoulders relaxed away from the ears, hands slightly behind the shoulders, looking up as you go into cobra.
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
105
Health and fitness
Downward dog Exhale into downward dog. Grounding evenly through your hands and relaxing the back of your neck gazing between your calves to your heels which are tucked behind your ankles, move the hips towards the ceiling and press the heels into the floor.
Low lunge Inhale stepping the right leg forward, left knee and foot remain on the floor, look up.
Forward fold Exhale bring the right foot to join the left at the top of the mat and come into forward fold. Reaching upwards Inhale arms overhead
Tadasana Exhale closing the pose. Repeat 3-5 times. Alternate leading with left and right legs.
You may substitute high lunge: and twisting lunge: as you repeat the vinyasa as become more experienced. At first trying to breathe and do the right movement can seem overwhelming and difficult. With practice the movements become second nature and the breath follows. There is a unity and freedom that starts to create a space and lightness in the mind, leading to awareness. Remember you are not supposed to be good at yoga, yoga is supposed to be good to you.
106
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
FAMILY and RELATIONSHIPS
Family yoga by Stella Ungphongphan
Family life can be beautifully hectic, particularly when there are kids in the household and settling in a new city like Bangkok. Our children live in a hurry up world of school pressures, incessant lessons, phone app games, shopping malls and wifi. While everyone knows a personal yoga practice does myriad for one's health, a family yoga practice has the potential to bring parents and their kids closer together. Why do family yoga? To both deepen the connection with those you love in a playful way while deepening your stretches and poses with the help of your all too eager family members. Family yoga also benefits a greater calm, a sense of spiritual connectivity, a healthy fun to the daily routine. Being a parent doesn’t have to mean zero personal time and a slimmed down social life. Today yoga classes are not just for the super fit, super flexible, and super serious. Anyone and everyone can find a class that suits his or her needs - including parents and children. Parent and child yoga classes deliver the same mental and physical benefits as any other yoga class: peace of mind, relaxation, and increased bodily strength and flexibility. The perks don’t stop there, though one hour a week of being present without expectations is a sweet gift and a huge bonding experience for families. For parents it is also amazing to have a place to come and exercise without having to also find a childcare, and where you can network with other parents, share advice on sleep tricks, stroller, nursing tips and parenthood. In Bangkok you can find Little Yogi Bangkok run by Kru Ying and Kru Banana offering happiness and fun classes which promote both physical and mental development for children. Kids and families will also be introduced to joy of body movement with the interactive class, allowing children to develop their creativity and imagination, while still allowing them to find calmness and a quiet energy. Your children will begin to feel stronger and calmer in their daily life as well having tools to feel confident is priceless. There are also Incy Wincy Kids yoga that goes into schools to teach kids yoga. Other family friendly yoga studio are The Iyengar Yoga studio in Thong Lor offering weekly kids classes as well as prenatal classes. Close by on Sukhumvit soi 26 is Prem Yoga Prana also offering classes for 8-14 years old and 14-24 years old for children with special needs.
108
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
leave apart giving it it’s due time and care with yourself and our family. At Theo Living the kids yoga classes never has a dull or quiet moment. For those wishing to conceive Theo Living also has crafted fertility yoga which combines the best of physical, emotional, mental and spiritual practices for curing infertility, promoting healthy, holistic fertilisation, a very sound pregnancy and a wholehearted childbirth. You might be tempted to ask this question “I’m a perfectly healthy woman/man. Do I need fertility yoga?” Why not give fertility yoga a try? - Little Yogi Bangkok www.littleyogibangkok.com
For a more personalised family yoga class, Adrian Cox the founder and director of Yoga Elements Studio, a highly regarded school of yoga and body mind arts. As a well known teacher of vinyasa based yoga for over 15 years. He applies the techniques and attitudes of Neuro-Linguistic Programming, into his teaching method as a way of enhancing learning and transformation. He is a licensed NLP Trainer with the Society of NLP by Christina Hall, Ph.D., and a certified NLP Trainer by NLP co-founder John Grinder. Adrian is also a certified coach, Master Practitioner of NLP, and clinical hypnotherapist, whose teachers include the renowned Stephen Gilligan and John Overdurf. His one-to-one work and group trainings of yoga and NLP draw upon an in depth study and practice of yoga, Ayurveda, meditation, philosophy, mind, and linguistics for over 20 years. He brings to his teachings a deep interest in change, healing, and personal development. You are able to book a class with Adrian for you and your family and he will guide and teach you that life may get a little complicated as your family starts to grow, but yoga doesn't have to! Another wonderful space for family yoga is at Theo Living at Sukhumvit Soi 20 offering a diverse class, kids yoga, a unique fertility yoga class, family workshops and a space to breathe and connect with yourself. Founded by the angelic Geetanjali Sood Jagota to offer a solution for the modern fast paced era which leaves us with little or no time to even think about our overall wellbeing,
- Iyengar Yoga Studio Bangkok 3rd floor fifty fifth Plaza Building, 90 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (at the corner of Thong Lor 2), Klong Tan Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 - Theo Living Mille Malle Mall Sukhumvit Soi 20 - Yoga Elements 185 Dhammalert Building 7th floor, Sukhumvit Rd., Klongtoey nua, Wattana, Bangkok
NGO
Bilingual Bites A celebration of world cuisine in English and Thai inspiration for the international foodie with a conscience
The closing weeks of last year saw the return of the Samutprakan International Ladies Club’s (SILC) hugely successful international cookbook: Bilingual Bites. Following a sell out first edition in 2012, “Bilingual Bites 2” was launched as the centrepiece of a culinary showcase at the Anantara Riverside. Guests from all over the globe were treated to a mouthwatering cookery demonstration by Executive Chef, Ashley Coleman, as well as SILC’s own Jimmy’s Kitchen. The event culminated in a glorious dance by the children of FORDEC Mahawong Preschool.
110
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
“Bilingual Bites 2 has been designed to celebrate the diversity of both the flavours we enjoy in this vibrant city and the food traditions of our members’ home nations,” said SILC Chair Jane Campton. The recipes are written in both English and Thai to enable a wider audience to sample over a hundred new dishes. The book can be purchased at the Anantara Riverside and Cheery’s Kitchen in Nichada, as well as by emailing silcwelfare1@gmail.com.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
All proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to projects supporting the health, education and development of less fortunate children in Thailand. The Samutprakan International Ladies’ Club: SILC are a group of women living in Bangkok and representing around 26 nationalities. Members meet to have fun, make friends and make a difference in the local community. The group’s focus is on sponsorship, education and better living conditions for children. Visit www.silcbangkok.com to find out more or download a membership form.
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
111
FAMILY and RELATIONSHIPS
Nana Love by Meghan Lynch
I just had my fourth son two months ago. My fourth and last son. He was first the son having been born in Thailand. It was my first pregnancy in Thailand. My first time shopping for newborn items in Bangkok’s shopping malls. He is, mostly, the first son I have had apart from my family, from our extended family. This became reality when the pregnancy test read positive. I knew then this entire experience would be different, full of unknowns, new conversations and the hardest part, the absence of my family. You see, the birth of a child for me and my family, goes hand in hand. We have a baby, the troops are called into help. Each family member has their role. After three children, a sort of routine and call to action takes place. The feelings and emotions behind knowing it wouldn’t look the same, feel the same or be the same, were hard to contain at times and hard to accept over the months. But I knew this and, I remained focused and steadfast that this was a part of our adventure here in Thailand, that this experience was meant for our family to come to be as our last born child was. Through the early months of pregnancy I ignored the question raised of having my mother come out to help us when I gave birth. I didn’t want to take her away from her role, caretaker of my sisters three children while both she and her husband work in the USA full time. Soon my stubborn like reply and attitude got too much for my sister and her husband. They took action themselves. It became a non issue, it was a fact. My Mom would come and help and stay with us when our newest addition entered this world, for as long as we wanted. Over the summer we set in a plan,
112
February/March 2017
a very strong firm plan. But you know what they say about plans right? I’ll make a long and drawn out story quick, as quick as our fourth son’s arrival into this world came to be. He came early, early as in five and a half weeks. Early as in one month before my Mom was set to arrive. Early as in the plans my sister and her husband had set up for the month of November with who was going to watch her kids, this day on that time and what week all became null and void. The plan went to pass and an action was after some time needed to be taken. My Mom came when we gave her the green light to come, my foggy brain and my stubbornness set in once the baby and I were in the hospital and he was stable. I said we’d be okay for sometime without her help. Those times I said, I wouldn’t need her and wouldn’t need her help, well it was obvious I was living in a fantasy world and having a
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
‘premie’ and spending 15 days in the NICU with him, her help was more of a need than ever before. Wasn’t I set straight and stubbornness was put to the waste side. It isn’t that we don’t have help, and it isn’t that we don’t live in a village where helping hands surround us on every corner of our Moo Baan. It’s just that we needed family, we needed a Nana, we needed familiarity. The boys, 7, 5 and 3 needed to feel the love and assurance from my Mom that she so
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
effortlessly and easily gives out. She is a nurturer and while I was away, and then days later brought the baby home, we all needed some tender loving care - more than usual and she was just the ticket. During those 5 weeks in the fog of feeding every 2 hours, diaper changes, and constant questions from the other boys there wasn’t a day, or sometimes an hour, that went by that I was so thankful, this woman was here with us, by our side, to hold a hand, wipe a face
filled with chocolate. 8,500 miles away from her home, away from my Dad who needs her and adores her more than anyone. Away from her grandchildren who for 9 years have relied on her everyday, her love, her attention, her Nana love. In total my Mom has spent 12 weeks with us here in Bangkok over the last 2.5 years. The first trip, was for 4 weeks to settle our family of 5 in. The next summer was to fly back with the kids and I while Pete had
returned weeks earlier to work. She flew back and took two of the older boys on while I had the youngest one. She barely slept, and our quick jaunt to Paris for two nights to lessen the length of the trip all at once, was less than glamorous and full of jet lag and hectic meals and walks around the Eiffel Tower that were filed with more reprimanding than history and culture. It didn’t matter to her. She's always smiling, always grateful for whatever direction the experience turned into. Sometimes I would say to her, how sorry I was. How sorry I was that this was so much work, or hectic or in some ways boring as this last trip she did no sightseeing at all. She just smiles and replies, “I am happy to be with you and watch your sons grow and spend time with them, that is all I need.” If I didn’t know her as I do, I wouldn’t believe her, but I do, she’s telling the truth. That’s why we call her Nana Love, full of, absolute unconditional love.
FEATURES
Superwoman
by Ravit El-Bachar Daniel Photos: Azusa in action - by Akira Maruyama Azusa, her children and her mum - by Heather Latva-Kiscola Superwoman: A woman who fulfils her many roles with apparently superhuman efficiency. Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition I've came across several Superwomen during the time I have been living in Thailand, and I have the honour to meet more of them. I have decided to dedicate a regular section for them – to bring their story, give them a little praise, and let all our readers get some inspiration.
Azusa Uchida - life between the lens. She had always planned to become a doctor, but life and motherhood directed Azusa into the world of photography. She believes her 'Superwoman' qualities rooted in her childhood – while being raised by a single mum in a poor home she has learnt to do all on her own, save and not waste, thrive to reach beyond the high expectations. And she never takes time off. If I had to choose three words to describe my personality they would probably be: parsimonious, competitive, and perfectionist. I am made from negative and aggressive emotions”, says Azusa. Hearing that coming from analways smiling calmlooking person is a bit surprising. Azusa, 36, is a busy women.
Moreover – a busy mum. We scheduled to conduct an interview just a few weeks before she was about to give birth to her 3rd baby. She emailed to apologise – the timetable will have to change as she just gave birth a bit earlier than expected; She left hospital only yesterday - can I give her few more days? I was smiling, because
this is Azusa – even when she gives birth – she is concerned by deadlines, commitments etc. She grew up in Japan and left the country for the first time when she was over 30. Being a mum to three young daughters under the age of 6, while doing lots of other stuff, is challenging; as a typical expat – each of her children was born in a different country: the first - in Japan, the second - in Singapore and the third was born few weeks ago – here, in Thailand. She started her professional life in Japan as a nurse at a neurology department, completed a Master's course in a graduate school and studied an intractable neurological diseases as a researcher. But it was only when her first daughter was a year and a half old when her romance with the camera started blooming. What brought you into photography? One day my husband bought a DSLR camera. At first I didn't have any interest in it because it seemed too difficult for me to use (I'm a very
114
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
analogue person and even don't know how to download an App to my smartphone; I actually got my first smartphone only recently). However once I started using it, I soon found it interesting.� How did the hobby developed into a real profession? When I just started with this hobby, people who got my pictures looked delighted and I liked it. So I started taking more and more pictures of my friends' kids as well as my daughters'. Back then I never thought I would become a professional photographer. It was only after I moved to Thailand when my thought started changing. Two encounters influenced it a lot: First it was an introduction with an amateur photographer, who became also one of my best
drinking companions; he makes beautiful pictures, knows all about photography and has lots of devices for photography, which I wasn't familiar with. He inspired me and gave me a lot of advice, which made me more curious about photography. The second encounter was a volunteer women's group, BAMBI, which gave me many opportunities to take pictures and grow as a photographer. I started taking pictures at my playgroup first, and later did it at the other group's playgroups and events. The biggest change happened about one year later when I found out that BAMBI News magazine was looking for a cover photographer; I decided to challenge myself and enjoy also the benefit of free advertising in the magazine. People saw the
covers and my ad and asked to have photoshoot session with me. That was how I actually started my professional photography. Last year I had my first solo photo exhibition in Bangkok which was focused on Motherhood. I don't really understand why I am so addicted to photography, but I hadn't met anything I could spend my time and money on until I got familiar with photography. I simply feel happy when I can capture a special moment and realise it makes others happy as well. What keeps you busy? How your typical week looks like? Before I gave birth to our new baby: teaching Japanese and
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
115
FEATURES
photography in an international school; volunteering as a playgroup leader and as BAMBI News Photo Editor (this included taking pictures at every playgroup and event, and providing photos for articles and covers); offering services to a company which is specialised in kindergartens events' pictures; I sometimes did family photoshoots too when these requests came up; and also dedicated time for English classes. My life was filled with volunteer work and practices until recently; now I've stopped many of these activities temporarilly, allowing myself adjustment to the new baby. I do all this in addition to all the house chores and taking care of my kids by myself, as I don't have a nanny or helper. I can't leave anything to others and feel comfortable when doing everything my own way.” Do you take time off? No, I don't. For me, most of what is
116
February/March 2017
considered 'pampering' activities are not worth my time and money. I feel good and excited when I take a picture and see what I've created. Nothing fascinates me more than photography. Where does it come from? Tell me a little about your childhood/teenage years. What type of child/teen were you? “My mother got divorced when I was 2, and raised my sister and I on her own as a single mum. Needless to say, my family was poor and it was natural for me to always save money. I was forced to be patient against my will, restrain myself. I did many things to survive when I was young so I am used to being patient and trying harder. I've learned that opportunities are everywhere and I shouldn't miss any. My mother repeatedly told me to get better and I always tried to meet her expectations. Although I was far from excellent, I had to try hard and accomplish little by little; I was happy whenever she was delighted. Making people happy has become one of my most important goals when I do something, and I've learned that people aren't surprised unless we get to a higher place than they expected. I never compromise when I do something I really want and I tend to demand the same from others. I was doing well at school and was liked by adults, though - as you can guess – many classmates thought I was a bit strange and hard to get along with. I didn't have many friends, but I didn't care. I felt more comfortable to be on my own than with others, and did what I wanted to do whenever I wanted to do it.
What are you proud of? I am proud of my family. They always support me with what I want to do, and their cooperation allows me to work. My husband is willing to take care of my daughters when I have work on weekends, and my daughters 'model' when I ask them to. I appreciate them helping me. Where do you see yourself in ten years from now? Actually I have no idea. My nature is not to stick to a specific plan. I don't know which country we will live in either. But I'll definitely find something I can do for others wherever I go. Your top tip to inspire other expats women in a foreign city? I am not a special person at all, but I have tried everything I can do, including things which were not related with my final goal, and I have finally found what I really want to do - and got a chance to do it in some different ways. I basically think we can get to higher place as long as we don't set a limitation. So my advice is - Keep on moving!”
What or who inspires you? The viewers of my pictures inspire me. Every time I hear they like my work – it motivates me. Any kind of beautiful artwork inspires me – it makes me want to create beautiful work that will impress people.”
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
Health and fitness
Thailand’s new ice hockey league by Scott Murray, contributors Christian Olofsson & John Schachnovsky photo by Tadamasa Nagayama
There is a new sports league in town and it is rapidly gaining fame and popularity. The Siam Hockey League (SHL) started play in mid November 2016 and its four member teams (Sport Corner/Titanium; Aware, the Sukhumvit Spitfires and Hooters Nana) will play until late April 2017. As word of the league grows there are plans to expand to 5 or 6 squads and maybe even add a second tier for less experienced players. Although the league is primarily composed of expats from countries including Canada, the USA, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Slovakia, and Switzerland, the referees all are Thai and serve under the capable tutelage of IIHF certified Sakchai “Jeab” Chinanuvantana. The league came about after John Schachnovsky, Scott Murray and Christian Olofsson organised a charity game for the Thai Red Cross in late May featuring NHL defenseman Johnny Oduya. They raised 80,000B on the night, but sensing a synergy they decided to try and
118
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
revive the expat hockey league, formerly known as the Thai World Hockey League (TWHL), which had lain dormant since April of 2015. The three took the titles of President, Vice President and Secretary, respectively, eventually adding Alex Manton as Administrator; Alasdair Fawcett as Treasurer, Pratch Siridhara as Head of Marketing and Jeab as Referee in Chief. They decided to make it a non-profit league, setting out to secure four team sponsors putting any extra revenue they earned back into the league, thereby making it cheaper for players to join the league. They also set out to make sure that the talent was divided evenly on all squads; consisting of 13 skaters and 1 goalie per team, aged 16 and above. Another 20 skaters are listed as
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
substitute players, filling in for those travelling, injured or in other ways unable to play on any given game night The 20 game schedule sees matches primarily played on Sunday nights at 8:30 and 9:30pm but there is the occasional Monday and Thursday night game. All games are played at “The Rink” on the 7th floor or the Central Grand Rama 9 shopping mall; admission is free. SHL players also participate in the Thai run Bangkok Ice Hockey League (BIHL), which operates when the SHL doesn’t – from May to September. The players also play weekly pick up shinny hockey and form the Flying Farang teams that compete in local and regional tournaments held in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Manila and Hong Kong. Heading into the holiday break, Sport Corner/Titanium sat atop the standings with three wins and six points; Aware was in second spot with five points (two wins and an overtime loss); Hooters was in third spot with four points (two wins) and Sukhumvit was in last with their lone win and two points. SHL president John Schachnovsky was the leading scorer with 10 points followed by Stephen Sproule with 6 points. A player of the game award is presented after each game, with the deserving winner getting a 400B voucher for a meal at Rolling Stone Wood Fired Pizza. Another commitment from the SHL League Committee is to be active on social media and have an online presence throughout the course of the season. Efforts have been made to provide interesting content and quality infographics that will motivate players as well as attract fans and sponsorship. The SHL has even appointed Dom Dumais, a podcaster and vlogger residing in Bangkok, to be the official podcaster of the league. He has in return become a big supporter of the league and his podcasts and interviews with players are fun and very entertaining (http://www.domdumais. com/shl-standing/). The SHL Facebook page is packed with high quality photos of the games, its players and the people involved in the ice hockey community in Bangkok. Come along and watch us or get in touch if you want to join in. See you at the rink! For more information www.siamhockeyleague.com/ www.facebook.com/Siam-Hockey-League-SHL-710630512425060/
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
119
Nutrition
Fine dining in your home by Agneta de Bekassy photos by ©Gula Bangkok
Sometimes we get tired of going to a restaurant for dinner with friends or family. Now you have the possibility to invite your guests at home for a cosy or extravagant dinner without putting your feet in the kitchen, you don’t even have to select and or buy the food … Get ready, enjoy the aperitif and carry on enjoying your guests without settling back and forward to the kitchen. Chef Jacobo Astray, will happily take your order and prepare a customised meal for you and your guests. I had to ask this young Spanish man, why he chooses to offer a private chef service instead of joining a restaurant or opening his own restaurant here in Bangkok. Jacobo answered “Bangkok’s gastronomy scene is blossoming. The city offers a wide variety of high quality fare that meets international standards and helps to promote Bangkok as a food destination. Today, globally, top chefs are looking for a more exclusive and personal approach to their art. The new trend in high end food preparation is to have fewer clients, a personalised service and inspiring set menus. I feel very comfortable delivering this intimate gastronomic concept”. Who are your clients? Any specific group of people? My customers are people who are open to explore new gastronomic formulas, people who would like to try a different food experience and those who think of eating as not just another daily activity, but a culinary adventure. How do your clients find out about you? Word of mouth mostly, apart from press, social media. I'm kind of a private person in a way and to be honest I don’t spend much time promoting my services. How do you see the private chef scene in Bangkok? Bangkok has the potential to accept many types of gastronomy. The variety here is amazing. I see Bangkok’s
120
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
private chef scene growing in numbers, but more importantly, in quality. We do not want to be just another Asian culinary stop over, but one that is “in tune” with the global trends and demands. How does your private chef service work? The entire process from the beginning? Once the client contacts me by email or phone, I need details as to the number of guests, the date of the event and information about the kind of food or dinner concept they would like to enjoy … for example; fine dining, a tasting menu, gastro-tapas, lunch menu, etc. I can then offer an initial menu proposal and arrange a personal meeting in their home a few days before the event to inspect the kitchen check the equipment, cooking utensils and finalise details. I can provide preparation implements that are missing to guarantee perfect dinner execution. My clients needn’t worry about anything other than hosting their guests. Do you have the other cooking/service venues or do you only work in your client’s home? I do not have my own venue yet, but often, restaurants and hotels contact me to present a Guest Chef special dinner, to participate in gastronomic events, food workshops, gourmet food markets or consulting programmes. In the near future I would like to open my own lab, a multipurpose working space, where my signature private dining concept can be developed further as well as for workshops, pop-up dinners, small events and food promotions. What has your experience been regarding the private dining experience you offer? When you literally cooking in front of your guests, you have the chance to experience the emotional reaction/ feedback of the people eating your food. We talk about food, restaurants, gastronomy as an art and best of all, we informally share our opinions and previous dining experiences. I learn a lot more from the customers experience than when I was working in restaurants. As I like to say, a private customised dinner is a close in culinary experience between my customers, me and the food I prepare.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
“I want my clients to say, This is different … this is exciting eating.”
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
121
Nutrition
Have your clients enjoyed the experience? As I mentioned earlier, we enjoy the experience together. My clients have the chance to see how the dishes are being made. There are not that many chefs/restaurants offering this opportunity. Moreover, they are able to enjoy the wines and alcohol drinks and don’t have to worry about driving home later as they are in the comfort of their own home. What’s been your best experience so far? My best experience has been when my clients are surprised by a new dish. For instance, when tasting the olive spheres (a recipe I learned during my stint at El Bulli), most of the clients don’t expect a full flavour explosion when they bite into the olive. Or the frozen caliente prawn’s soup, wherein the textures and the temperatures of the fish excite the senses, or when I introduce a starter dish of ice-cream ….. I want my clients to say, “This is different … this is exciting eating”. This is my ultimate goal in introducing to my unique services. So what must your customer be able to offer you? Well, obviously I need a kitchen space, but it does not necessarily need to be a fully equipped kitchen. I can bring some of the equipment with me that may be missing. For me the kitchen size is important in considering of the number of guests to be served. I have in mind to open my own space, a kitchen workshop, where I will be hosting private dinners, especially for those who feel more comfortable having a private dining experience away from home. Your website notes that your clients have the option of choosing a tasting menu, a customised menu, a blind menu and surprise menus. Please tell us more about each packages and prices. These menu packages were created initially to make our customer participate in their dining experience. I tend to be very flexible with the menu choice. Often the client would like to try a gourmet product that he/she is not familiar with …. This where the customised menu comes into play. Also I propose them to play a role trying to identify the flavour and technics in a menu that I won’t introduce when serving (as I usually do with the rest), it will make senses and intuition a part of the experience with the surprise menu,
122
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
enhancing the appreciation of certain flavours, textures, sounds and aromas. So far most of our guests choose the tasting menu, where they let me choose the components, starting from 2950B per person. El Bulli was a three star Michelin restaurant and rated as world’s number one restaurant for years. Let’s talk about your experience there. How long did you chef at El Bulli and what was your role there? What was your specialisation? I spent three amazing seasons at El Bulli before it closed down. The first season I served as a trainee. Every year since its opening, there was a list of over 500 trainee applications. Because of my previous schooling and experience with one of the Adrià brothers at Inopia in Barcelona, I was fortunate to be selected as a trainee. After the first season Ferran Adrià offered me a position on his kitchen team as chef de partie. My role as a chef de partie was serving in the cold kitchen area where most of the Ferran’s new cooking techniques and his “food magic” was developed (spherifications, foams, airs, liquid nitrogen, etc.). I was in charge of a team of 6-8 staff and produced 25-30 new dishes every season from a total of 80 new dishes that Adria and his creative team developed each season. Ferran built his business around his new approach to cooking and I was honoured to have played a role in El Bulli’s phenomenal success.” Can you give an example of your most impressive private service in Bangkok? “The most impressive private dinner I gave was for a group of 8 people, all gourmets which included local chefs, in a private dining room. I suggested a tasting menu. They gave me free rein in my offering any menu I liked. I decided to create a 12 course set menu, wherein techniques, flavour combinations, textures, temperatures would blend exquisitely using the finest quality foods. Lobster ceviche, frozen caliente prawn’s soup, sous-vide lamb and Iberico ‘presa’ were the dishes I prepared amongst others. The dinner was served over two and a half hours. I prepared the full menu in front of the guests at a specially prepared chef’s table where we chatted and shared gastronomic experiences throughout the evening. This was a special event for me and for the guests. We ended the evening inspired and looking forward to our next culinary adventure. For more information about chef Jacobo Astray; www.gulabangkok.com
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
ArtS and Culture
Talad Nad: The market of unexpected get togethers by Nanticha Ocharoenchai (Lynn)
Eggs, carrots, potatoes. Your local supermarket has it all - it’s named that way for a reason. But does it have sticky rice, live frogs and fried insects? Thailand’s local markets do. “Gin kaow yung?” could be considered the Thai equivalent of “How are you?” Precisely, the phrase means “Have you eaten rice yet?”, but culturally, it conveys more than just the fact that Thais consume an immense amount of rice, but also shows the significance of food and eating in the Land of Smiles. A way of showing affection, the phrase prioritises the hunger of a person as their wellbeing. In Thailand, a fully fed man is a happy man. For that reason, all of Thailand’s celebrated street food/s all come together in one place, twice a week. The talad nad is not just a place, but also, perhaps, an event - one in which people from different parts of the district show up to sell whatever they wish to. It literally translates to “market gathering”, explaining why it only happens twice a week. Although quite similar to the typical flea market, the talad nad sells, rather than rare gems and vintage furniture, just everyday food and items used by locals. Exhausted from a long day and hungry enough to eat anything, taking a 25 minute car ride to the supermarket was out of question for me. That day being a Saturday, I knew there was a talad nad going on in front of my street, soi as we
124
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
Thais call it. With a 7/11 three minutes away from my house and another one right across from it - I live in Bangkok, after all - I never really knew what the craze about going to the talad nad was. That day, I started a new routine. Walking through one of the may aisles, the aroma of frying oil greets me like an old friend. From stand to stand, food was being made right there and then. Banana fritters being scooped right from woks of bubbling oil and meat skewers being covered in a thick glaze then put on the grill, not a sight I was too unfamiliar with from the daily walks in the street of Bangkok. Next to a rice stand - or really just tables with packs of rice and price signs on them - was another stand, one with a variety of at least fifteen enormous pots of curries and soups, each on its own stove and gas tank. As if I was crossing an invisible border, I felt the heat waves from the boiling pots hit me like one conjoined force. Behind the wall of hotness was the vendor, pouring spoonfuls of boiling soups into flimsy plastic bags then tying them up with an elastic band. Too risky. I then remembered I was looking for ingredients for my evening meal, not sightseeing. Eventually, I stumbled upon a
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
stand of fresh fruits and vegetables. Giving me a warm smile, the lady sitting behind the heap of produce gently sprayed water on the Chinese kale, the broccoli, then the Thai basil. A bright pink basket was set on the table, conveniently for me to pick out my greens without dropping them. After selecting what would become my dinner, left in my basket were a few tomatoes, an onion, and some coriander tied up in a rubber band. Over the pyramid of vegetables, I handed the lovely vendor the basket with my full reach. She bent over to take hold of the basket, then carefully placed its contents on a manual scale putting them into a plastic bag. The whole batch costed me 30B, roughly a dollar. With no small notes with me, I had no choice but to hand the vendor a 500B note, of which she had no change for. However, it was no problem for her. Suddenly, she shouted across the aisle to her neighbour, trading my note for smaller ones. Besides the money, they exchanged banters between one another - her friend jokingly complaining that her lack of small notes was because of her exceedingly good business. Others joined in on the chitchat, laughing from various corners of the market. Google’s office seemed like the ideal workplace, until I found this warm, gleeful community. Once done with my first purchase, I moved on to exploring more of the vast market, my eyes stumbling upon mouthwatering snacks here and there. Most of them weren’t new to me - boxes of deep fried por pia spring rolls, bowls of guay tiew noodles, cups of refreshing cha yen tea - yet all of them made it hard to resist the temptation to buy everything. My feet shuffled through the fascinating street of food as my brain admired each delicacy - until something caught my eye. Neatly laid out on an ice filled metal crate, were frogs, their guts out for a disturbing display. It wasn’t long before I noticed the buckets nearby on the ground, nets tied over them to keep whatever that was moving from escaping. Inside each bucket were at least seven catfish all huddled up, gasping for the last of their breaths, the water slightly below their eyes. As if that wasn’t bizarre enough, I happened to walk right by the goong ten, or “dancing shrimp”. A net full of krill, taken out from water, was dumped into an aluminium bowl. The “dancing” then began as the vendor squeezed half a lime onto the tiny creatures, sending them off to a painful session of a struggle for life. It was horrifying, but all simply an honest
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
truth of what goes on behind some of the most delectable dishes. To clear my mind, I continued to another corner of the locale. From sushi costing 5B a piece to 20B chocolate crêpes, it was like an international food fair in its most affordable form. Not to mention, there was even an entire selection of pizza toppings to choose from, starting from 15B a slice, as well as 30B hamburgers and french fries. This is the paradise of a glutton - one on a budget. Aside from everything edible, the market had more to offer. Every vendor at the place enjoyed the same Thai look toong folk music, played by a CD shop with its blasting stereo and stockpile of tunes. Pirated copies of CDs were arranged on a table, all ready with different album covers to choose from. While listening to the music, customers can browse through the collection Buddhist amulets, provided with mini magnifying lenses to check their authenticity. Next to it, was another shop, this one selling all sorts of wearable items. Racks of secondhand blouses stood by piles of lingerie. Curtains of shoes hung down from the frame of the stand, each shoestring of the fake Nikes laced up together to create a convenient display. You can get anything here, from cheap no name clothing, to even cheaper branded clothing. The talad nad isn’t just a place of buying and sell, but rather a gathering in which people bring the best of what they’ve got and share it with others. The sense of community that comes with it is something that would be completely absent in a supermarket. Skip the usual trip to the supermarket and check out some of the Talad Nad Rot Fai around town …….
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
125
Social pages
126
February/March 2017
IWC's Christmas lunch 2016 at the Holiday Inn Silom
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
IWC's Christmas lunch 2016 at the Holiday Inn Silom
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
127
Social pages
128
February/March 2017
IWC's Annual General Meeting
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
IWC's Annual General Meeting
www.facebook.com/expatlifeinthailand
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
129
Life
Connected by blood or circumstance by Bea Toews
Bea talks about how grief is handled better with family – near, far, related by blood or by choice. When grief strikes, it’s the family that we call on. And if they can’t be there in person, technology helps. No one doubts the importance of family to shape the child. In most families eating, drinking, dressing, manners, ethics – most of a child’s behaviour is determined by family models. Mom and Dad do this, so it must be the correct way to do this. We go to school and new forces act on us. The influence of family seems to wane when we meet friends, become teenagers, leave our home country, meet partners; leave the family nest for many reasons. We change, and rightly so. We start making our own families too: our partners, our children, but other people as well. The perfectly simpatico neighbour or friend, the person we worked with but left when we moved to another country, the masseuse who became a friend then like family – all kinds of people became family in other cities and lands. As it should be. Families by choice not by blood. And sometimes, by death or disagreement, the size of our blood family dwindled. As long as we are putting one foot in front of the other; going to work, getting the job done, feeding the kids – all this depending on the stage of life we are in – we can feel pretty independent and in charge and take charge sort of people. That is, after all, the way we were raised. But when grief strikes, especially when someone dies, the need for family escalates to a burning desire for family embraces. The feel of our parents, our children, our friends’ arms and hands become essential to our wellbeing. We long for the shelter of strength outside our own to protect us from the misery in which we are drowning. And drowning we are. As expats, we often don’t have the luxury of the arms of our biological family. Sometimes we are alone. The family may come to our side for a week or a month. But the struggle with misery doesn’t end with the day, the week or the month of the death of our partner, child, or parent - so much as the respite is necessary when distant family joins us, it’s not enough. And this is where technology is vital. We must remember to connect our parents, children siblings, cousins, friends – our blood and circumstance family – to get devices to connect with us. Nothing replaces the arms of your family
130
February/March 2017
EXPAT LIFE in Thailand
around you, nor can nor should it. Technology helps. We need to use the world time clock and to keep the hours of distant family in our awareness. Often we can join a family member in the evening while we are having breakfast or vice versa. Talking on Skype or messenger or FaceTime, companionably eating a meal, is good. Not as good as being there, but good. Sending photos on phones and receiving them is good. Not like being there to see the flowers or people. But still good. When the world was larger, we tended to stay in one place more than we do now. Our immediate family and lifelong friends tended to be near to us and we could support each other physically. We have chosen not to do that. Let us stay connected by bonds of blood or circumstance: and let us use whatever technology it takes to support each other.
www.expatlifeinthailand.com
Extending the Learning in the Early Years
Announcing an extended school day from August 2017 Nursery children finish at 11.30am or 2.30pm Foundation Stage 1 and 2 finish at 2.30pm Year 1 and Year 2 finish at 2.30pm
More time to develop key skills in reading, writing and mathematics Greater opportunities for broader learning experiences Tel: +66 (0) 2785 2200 Email: admissions@patana.ac.th 643 Lasalle Road Bangna (BTS Bearing or Banga) Bangkok 10260
Celebrating 60 Years of British International Education Bangkok Patana is not-for-profit, IB World School accredited by CIS and NEASC