Thani Talk 2016 October by Thani Talk NNR

2016

Thani Talk Serving the Nonthaburi community and suppor ng local chari es since 1994

Now online at: www.issuu.com/nnrthanitalk

COVER STORY Day Trips: Train, Bike, Boat pp. 10‐15

PEOPLE Profile: Madison Warta p. 34

NNR BAZAAR Save the Date! Nov. 3 p. 6

Thani Talk-October 2016

About NNR & Thani Talk

NNR (Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach) is a not-for-profit organization of volunteers dedicated to serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994. We achieve this by publishing Thani Talk, a free monthly magazine that has a distribution of 1,400 copies, as well as hosting an annual charity bazaar. We host monthly socials and organize monthly tours. There are no membership dues, and anyone living in Nonthaburi is already a member. Connect with NNR NNR Guide

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DISCLAIMER: The placement of advertisements and articles in this newsletter does not constitute or imply endorsement by the NNR of any product or service. The NNR accepts no responsibility for any claims made in any advertisement and the opinions expressed in any articles are not necessarily the views of the NNR committee.

NNR BOARD 2016-2017 Chairperson

Henrietta Bullinger

Hbullinger@gmail.com

Vice Chairperson

Sally Elliott

Treasurer

Livonia Winkles

Activity/Tour Coordinators

Susanne Rodrigues Elizabeth Bredin

092-458-3505

suratoru@yahoo.co.uk esbredin@gmail.com

NNR Socials

Denise Warta

090-013-8490

cdwarta@yahoo.com

Charity and Volunteer Wanda Grove Coordinators Sandra Wilson

091-884 9335

wandagrove14@gmail.com nnrcharity@gmail.com

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Laura Sadowski Ginny Condra

089-924-5306

nnradverts@yahoo.com

Thani Talk News Team

Liz Lu (Editor) Catherine Miller (Grapevine Leads) Laura Sadowski, Ginny Condra (Proofreaders)

nnrnews@gmail.com

Distribution Coordinator

Shana DeHaven

sdehaventhai@hotmail.com

nnrthaitreasurer@gmail.com

NNR November Bazaar : Barbara Lewis (Coordinator), Livonia Winkles (Treasurer), Wanda Grove and Indebir Broca (Raffle Prize Team), Ginny Condra (Raffle Ticket Sale Coordinator), Vara Sumetanon (Vendor Coordinator), Natalie Lollback (Volunteer Coordinator). 2

Thani Talk-October 2016

Contents & Calendar of Events

Meet some of Our NNR Board of Directors

(Lt. to Rt.) Shana DeHaven, Henrietta Bullinger, Wanda Grove, Sandra Wilson, Denise Warta, Susanne Rodrigues, and Ginny Condra. Not pictured: Sally Elliott, Livonia Winkles, Elizabeth Bredin, Laura Sadowski, and Liz Lu. (See opposite page for Board positions)

Inside This Issue

NNR & Community Events Breast Cancer Awareness Month

NNR Social: Running Dinner

NNR Tour: Textile Workshop

Cover Story: Day Trips

Fitness, Tutors

Grapevine Tips

Charity News

Highlights: NNR Museum Tour

Highlights: NNR Sept. Coffee

PEOPLE: Madison Warta

Community News

Religious Venues

Travel: Jakarta

Restaurant Review: Mediterranean

Oct. 4

Zumbathon at Sheraton Grande

Oct. 6-30 Art Exhibit at Neilson Hays Library Oct. 8

CanCham Maple Leaf Ball at Pullman Bangkok Grande Sukhumvit

Oct. 14

NNR Tour: Textile Workshop

Oct. 15

NNR Social: Running Dinner

Oct. 29

An American Halloween Fundraiser at Holiday Inn Sukhumvit

Oct. 31

Secret Garden & Zombie Haunted House at Nichada Plaza

Oct. 31

Halloween

Cover photo by Nicole Ostmeier www.nophotography.de 3

Thani Talk-October 2016

NNR October Social

● A night out for you and your spouse in the neighborhood. ● Meet 9 other couples in 3 hours. ● Get a three meal course. ● One course in three different houses where you might host one of them. ● Running Dinner is within golf cart range of Nichada and starts at 7pm. Sounds like fun, right? Sign up for the event at runningdinner5@gmail.com before October 4th. We just need your name, your spouse´s name, address, phone number, allergies. We ask that you are able to host a meal for 8 people. One week before the event, you will be asked to host a starter, a main course or a dessert. The day before the event, we will tell you where you are going for your first course. You will not know who will join you until the course begins. At the end of the course you will be told where to go next, and so on… At the end of the dessert, everyone will find out where the after party will be, and you can meet up with everybody else who joined this event. Remember: There are no standards for what kind of food you can serve when you host. It is your dinner party. (except if one of your guests has an allergy) This event is meant for people to meet and mingle in a fun way. If your spouse is unavailable, you can bring your neighbor or best friend for this evening. 4

NNR October Tour

Thani Talk-October 2016

NNR October Tour: Thai Tex les Workshop Sponsored by Asian Tigers As you may have experienced, Thai textiles can be colorful, glamorous, and captivatingly lovely. For this hands-on workshop, we are honored to welcome our presenter, Khun Sek Mangmee, a noted Thai fabric designer involved in the resurgence of traditional Thai costume in the current fashion scene. Khun Sek will introduce us to the history and culture of the lai yang--a Thai royal textile--from the era of Ayutthaya to the royal Rattanakosin period. In addition, Khun Sek will discuss traditional block print motifs and techniques, and how he uses those in the creation of his own bespoke fabric patterns. Participants also will have the opportunity to try the intricate wraps and folds of both the lai yang and the Thai sarong. Each participant will receive a Thai buckle so that she (or he) can replicate sarong fashion at home. Please wear knee-length spandex, leggings or exercise pants, and a closely fitted T-shirt or tank top. If you already own a 3-meter length piece of cloth, please bring it, and we will show you how to fold and wear it. Otherwise, we will provide some sample pieces for participants to use. Light refreshments will be served. NRR extends sincere thanks to our sponsor, Asian Tigers, for generously supporting this program and to Lisa Middleton for opening her house for the event. Each time we learn more about Thai culture, our friendships deepen. Susanne Rodrigues and Elizabeth Bredin, NNR Tour Coordinators

Date: Friday, October 14, 2016 Time: 10 am‐1 pm Where: 39/228, Soi 6, Nichada Park Cost: 400 Baht To sign up: Please email ESBredin@ gmail.com Space is limited 18 par cipants. 5

Save the Date! NNR’s Annual Charity Bazaar: Nov. 3

! y! m um

Vendors Galore! All Proceeds Go to Charities

Thani Talk-October 2016

Cover Story: Day Trips

Day Trips! By Train, Bike, Boat & Pedicab For those who are not going out of town for the upcoming October school break, here are some wonderful day trip options that’ll make you feel as if you’ve gotten away for a nice holiday. No need to go far. The trips included in this month’s cover story articles are all in Nonthaburi and the Greater Bangkok area. Each offers a unique mode of transportation- train, bike, boat, or pedicab - and each gives you an up-close-andpersonal look at the cultural richness of everyday living here in Thailand. Mass Transit: Instead of whizzing downtown in a chauffeured car, try out the new MRT Purple Line between Nonthaburi and Bangkok.

Bicycle: Instead of speeding past nearby neighborhoods in a taxi, try exploring our community’s roads and alleys and rice fields on a bicycle. Go solo or join a bicycle club and make friends. Boat: Hire a long-tail boat to soak in the energy of life on the Chao Phraya River, join the locals on commuter boats, or hop on a ferry to nearby Kokret island and walk or bike along the tiny lanes of this ethnic Mon pottery village. Pedicab: Take a pedicab, known in Thai as samlor (3-wheelers) near the fresh markets of Pakkred Pier. Great way to see the neighborhood. Have a wonderful time! Liz Lu Editor, Thani Talk

Nonthaburi to Bangkok Adventure The new Purple Line in Nonthaburi that opened for service in August runs on 23 kilometres of elevated track from Khlong Bang Phai to Tao Poon. The original passenger target for the new MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) route was 60,000 to 70,000 riders per day. However, the Purple Line currently averages only 20,000 riders per day. So what’s the problem? Why isn’t anyone riding the Purple Line? Two weeks ago, in mid September, I decided to find out for myself. The MRT, launched by the government entity Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand, is the underground mass transit system in Bangkok. It is operated by private concessionaire Bangkok Metro Company Limted (BMCL). Here in the suburbs, MRT’s new Purple Line extension is elevated. The BTS (Bangkok Mass Transit System, also known as the Skytrain) is run by a different private company that has a concession from the capital’s governing body, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. The new MRT Purple Line was supposed to allow easy transfer to the BTS and whisk commuters from the northern suburbs to downtown Bangkok. Unfortunately, the MRT’s new Purple Line has yet to connect to its Blue Line, so the missing 1-kilometre link necessitates a shuttle bus. 10

Bangkok Post

Via the New Purple Line

It’s necessary to buy separate tickets for the two rail systems: MRT and BTS. How easy is it to navigate the new route? Here is the story of my Purple Line adventure. I was to meet some friends at EmQuartier in downtown Bangkok on a Friday afternoon. As the traffic is always especially bad on Fridays, and I wasn’t in a hurry, it was a good time to experiment and find out how long it would take to get from Nonthaburi to Bangkok by mass transit rail. I left my home in Nichada Thani at 2:13 pm, and my husband drove me to the Ministry of

Cover Story: Day Trips

Health Station. Another choice would have been to take Sanam Bin Nam Road to Central Rathanatibet and get on at the station there, but the policemen and traffic were not cooperating that day, so we ruled out that option. I arrived at 2:32 pm at the Ministry of Health station and found a very wide, clean, covered entry way -- much nicer than the concrete staircases of the BTS. As I tapped my ticket to enter, the train above was just pulling into the station so I ran upstairs and jumped onto the train just in time. The train was very clean and extremely empty. There were only 5 to 6 people in my car, so there was plenty of room to sit down. After a brief eight minute ride, I was at the end of the Purple Line. So far so good. Next, it was a scavenger hunt to transfer to the shuttle bus that would take me to the Blue Line. Signage was poor, so I finally had to ask the security guard for directions. Once on the bus, the wait didn’t seem long. We were soon on our way to the Bang Sue Station of the MRT system. I rode down the escalator and found myself in a very long, large hallway. It was

Thani Talk-October 2016

a long walk! By the time I got to the station and on the train, it had already been 17 minutes since disembarking from the Purple line! Once I got on the MRT’s Blue Line, I headed towards Sukhumvit Road. At the 1- hour point, I was at the Thai Cultural Center, and at 3:20 pm, we pulled into the Sukhumvit station. The ride from the Bang Sue station had only taken 23 minutes! Not bad, considering we stopped at ten stations along the way. Next was the trek up to the BTS system for the last leg. That alone took five minutes. It was now 3:25 pm. Once at the Asoke intersection, it took only seven minutes on the BTS to my destination- the EmQuartier on Sukhumvit Road! I had arrived by 3:33 pm -- an hour and 20 minutes in total. Not too bad, I thought.

In general, the trip on the Purple Line was pleasant and easy. Always being on the move helped the time pass, which might have been quite different had I decided to take the expressway to the Sanam Pao BTS station like I usually do. The longest parts of my journey was the 20 minutes from Nichada to the Ministry of Health station and the 17 minutes between the Purple Line and the Blue Line. That is often enough time to catch a taxi from Nichada to the Sanam Pao BTS station. Using that route, I can usually reach The EmQuartier in 1 hour or less. From a frustration standpoint, the 17 minute transition from the Purple Line to Blue Line was the worst part. That’s probably why not many people are riding the Purple Line. But I’m glad I tried out the new MRT route. It was an adventure! If you have time, challenge yourself to take the ride as a way of exploring the city. Wendy Van Bramer 11

Cover Story: Day Trips

Thani Talk-October 2016

Nichada Bike Club: Pathum Thani Jakayans Rice fields, Coconut Trees and Smiles

Have you noticed those svelte, lycra-clad, hard-bodies on their sleek-looking, single or dualsuspension mountain bikes (hard-tails or soft-tails for you in the know)? Did you also wonder where they were going? And if you happen to have seen them coming back into Nichada around noon, did you notice the big grins on their faces and asked why in this 40+ degree Celsius, muggy, sticky, humid weather do they look happy? Well, I want to help answer those questions and perhaps a few more with the hope that you will join us. The original “bike” group was a group of employees from Unocal (Chevron’s precursor in Thailand) who rode Saturdays and Sundays on the west side of the Chao Phraya River. At that time (2000-2005) there was no Rama IV Bridge and once across the river, there was no traffic and nearly all of the roads were dirt; seriously no pavement…NICE! Our rides were usually around 45 km, plus or minus. Enter 2016 and in the words of Bob Dylan, “the times are a-changing”. This informal group of weekend riders has now morphed into a much 12

bigger and more active group. Rides are no longer limited to the weekend as weekday rides are now common, a welcome change that was initiated by Meg Sine, Denise Frontczak and a few other ladies. At their initiative a Facebook page, the “Pathum Thani Jakayans” (jakayan is Thai for bicycle) was created and now serves as a sounding board for the weekly rides and a riders’ forum. Joining the group page is easy….you just ask to join from the website. Fast forward to the present and now there are regularly-scheduled rides on Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. The rides vary in length and difficulty from easy/slow. Here is my interpretation of the weekly rides: Monday: approximately 40 km at a speed of 20 km/hr or less. Some dirt roads and rice field single-track. Leave at 7:30 am and return around 10 am. Wednesday: 40-50 km but at 25km/hr+. More riding on paved roads/tarmac, occasionally off-road. Leave at 7:30 am and return around 10 am. Saturday: 60-80 km, 20-25 km/hr.; speeds

Cover Story: Day Trips vary. As much off-road riding in the rice fields as the weather will allow. The longest rides of the week leave at 7 am and return 11 am - noon. Sunday: 50-60 km, 20-22 km/hr. A “relaxing” ride (compared to Saturday) at a slower pace but still long enough to be a good workout. Leave at 7 am and return around 11 am. Other rides pop up during the week. If someone wants to go, they will post on the Facebook page. As much as these rides are for exercise and fitness, you will find the comradery and friendship is a big part of the attraction. Bikers are great people! Biking also allows you to experience life and the world at a slower pace. While in a car you blast by the world, on a bike you see so much more plus you experience the sites, sounds and smells of living in Thailand. I can close my eyes….breathe in the acrid, pungent, burning sensation of roasting chilies and know, I am in Thailand; only on a bike…..ask any biker! Ride Logistics: All rides leave from the Seechaitong gate (back gate) of Nichada Thani In order to ride you MUST wear a helmet. No helmet, no ride…period. You should bring 1.5-3 liters of water or electrolyte drink with you in bottles or hydration pack. Bring a spare inner tube and patch kit (and a

Thani Talk-October 2016

tire pump). Riders normally ride mountain (mostly) or cyclocross bikes as we do ride off road, and having some suspension is a plus. There are road bike groups riding out of Nichada as well…try the Facebook “PTJ” webpage for assistance. I hope to see some new faces on our rides soon. Join our growing group of friends and come experience Thailand at a slower pace. For information or questions about the rides, you may contact myself (caoglesby@hotmail.com) or Henrietta Bullinger (hbullinger@gmail.com) for details or go to our Facebook page (Pathum Thani Jakayans). Chris Oglesby

Thani Talk-October 2016

Cover Story: Day Trips

bangkok.com. Photo by Willy Thuan

Long‐tail Boat Rides: Best Ac vity with Visitors

yourthaiguide.com

Hands down, my favorite thing to do with visitors is a private long-tail boat ride on the Chao Phraya River. It’s so easy and never fails to amaze guests by exposing them to the quiet backwaters of a usually loud city. We booked our last ride on Klong Noi for three hours and we asked to stop at the “Artist’s House” and the Royal Barge Museum before our final drop off point at Wat Pho.

Royal Barge Museum Here’s how: Exit the Saphan-Taksin BTS platform walking toward the river and look for the guys with the large cardboard maps of the klongs. Let them know where you’d like to go and what you’d like to pay. (The going rate is 800-1,000 14

baht per hour, maybe more for a larger party). Parties from 2 to 10 are then escorted to the end of the pier and led over a boat to your own private longtail boat. My recommendation is to request to ride on Klong Noi where you’ll see both traditional and modern homes and get to ride through two locks. I also never miss a chance to see the Royal Barge Museum! When there, pay the extra 60 baht for a camera pass that allows you to take photos and be sure to see both movies in the back corner. (You will likely have to wake up the staff member and ask him to play the films. The films last about 10 minutes and talk about the training of the rowers and the significance of the barges.) By starting your day before 9 am and requesting a drop-off at Wat Pho, you’ll be in time for a lovely lunch at Sala (through the hotel) or at Eat Sight Story (more casual) both providing a view of Wat Arun across the river. For a really big day, you can then visit both Wat Pho and the Grand Palace! Kelly Kabat

Cover Story: Day Trips

Thani Talk-October 2016

Maipo.net

Flickrhivemind.net

Pedicabs, Tuk‐Tuks & Ferries: Exploring Village Life at Pakkred Pier

Visiting local wet markets and strolling on streets lined with mom-and-pop shops is one of the best ways to see and experience the real Thailand. Exploring the nearby Pakkred Pier neighborhood about 15 minutes from Nichada makes for an excellent day trip. At Villa supermarket, buy a Nancy Chandler map of Nonthaburi and head north on Tiwanon Road until you reach the famous Ha-Yaek intersection (5-way intersection). Turn left towards the Pakkred Pier, park your car at one of the many public parking areas under the ramp to Rama IV bridge. Parking costs only five baht an hour. Stroll down the street towards the Chao Phraya River. On some of the side sois (alleys), you’ll find 3-wheeled, man-powered pedicabs called samlor. Try a ride; you’ll need to negotiate a price beforehand. Short rides can be as little as 20 baht. Motorized Tuk-Tuks can also be found near the pier. Again, you’ll need to bargain. To really soak in the ambiance slowly, opt for a stroll. You’ll see shops selling everything from school uniforms to fabrics to household goods. Street vendors hawk grilled pork sticks, chicken and Thai sweets. At the end of the pier, you’ll find people feeding fish or relaxing by the river’s edge. There are boats and canoes for hire. A ferry ride to cross the river costs 3 baht, rides on commuter boats to other points on the river cost 30 baht. There are also larger boats for hire, ranging in prices from 500 baht to 1,800 baht. Staircases at the pier take you up to the Rama IV Bridge, where you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the river scenery. Afterwards, double back on the other side of

the street to complete your horseshoe shaped route. You’ll pass a large wet market on your left where you can stock up on Thai fruits and other fresh produce. At the end of your trip, you will have seen a genuine slice of Thailand. Liz Lu

Community News

Thani Talk-October 2016

Trick or Trea ng Oct. 31 in Nichada Monday October 31 is a school night, but a good guess is that not much homework will be done. Secret Garden that night will feature a Haunted House (tickets go on sale beginning at the Oct. 1 Secret Garden.) Typically, toddlers start trick-or-treating just after sunset, trailed by their chaperones. Grade schoolers and teens join in later, joined by children

and adults from the Thai community. A few caveats: Opt for costumes that hold up well in a hot climate. Add reflective tape to increase visibility at night. Be prepared for crowds, especially at Regent, where U.S. embassy families are famous for their American candies. Watch out for speeding golf carts on the main roads. Bring a bottle of water to help little ones stay hydrated.

Where to Buy Halloween Costumes, Candies & Decor

White Elephant Thrift Shop: The closest and most affordable Halloween shopping option may be our neighborhood thrift shop, White Elephant, which is located on the 2nd floor of the Oasis Shopping Complex on Samakkee Road. (Go out Nichada’s main gate, past Subway sandwich shop. Turn left at Samakkee Road. Oasis is the first shopping strip on your left. The shop currently offers a great selection of children’s Halloween costumes, from princess dresses to action hero outfits. Adults trying to put together a Halloween ensemble can find hats, scarfs, shirts, dresses, and costume jewelry. White Elephant is a non-profit group that donates earnings to charities. Hours are: Mon., Wed., Fri. and Sat. 10 am to 2pm. ; Tue. and Thurs. 10 am to 4pm. Macro Wholesale Market & Villa Supermarket Bulk candies are available at Macro (on Chaengwattana Road) and Villa (local candies and American candy bars). Party Guys (at T-intersection outside Nichada’s main gate). Western candies sold by the piece. 18

Daiso Dollar Store: At the Central shopping complex at Rathanathibet Road, a Japanese dollar store called Daiso features Halloween decor. Department Stores: Central Dept. Store at Chaengwattana, Robinson’s Dept. Store at Rathanthibet Road, The Mall at Ngamwongwang. Pratunaam Wholesale District: The Pratunaam district near is located at the corner of Petchburi Road and Rajdamri Road downtown. It’s a maze packed with clothing and knick-knacks, a perfect place to hunt for Halloween treasures. Chinatown: The narrow alleys of Chinatown’s famous Sampeng Lane will have ready-made costumes as well as fabrics, ribbons, buttons and decorations to create your own. It’s also the place to buy glow-in-the-dark sticks. Nonthaburi homeless shelter crafts team: The homeless residents will again be making orange, cloth Halloween bags. To order, contact Rebecca Armstrong at: andybeccakids@gmail.com.

Thani Talk-October 2016

Community Fitness and Activities

The Community Fitness and Activities page lists local classes/groups that meet regularly. Some have fees associated with them, while others are free. Please contact each group leader for more information. If you would like to list your group here, please submit your announcement by the 15th of each month to nnradverts@yahoo.com.

Yoga & Meditation

ASHTANGA YOGA With PanZen

Be the Master of your Mind: Tuesdays 9:30am‐ 11:00am and Fridays 7:45am‐9:15am Train your Body and Mind: Wednesdays 7:45am‐ 9:00am All levels are welcome! Danicha Condo 39/289. Private classes available. Contact Kers n Wild kers n.bangkok@gmail.com 086‐372‐9750 FB: yogaofawareness

A great way to improve your flexibility, core strength and get balance in your life…. Breath, Body and Mind Working with all levels Beginner to Advanced. ‐ Tuesday 3:45‐4:45 pm (Intermediate) ‐ Wednesday 3:45‐4:45 pm (Advanced) ‐ Thursday 3:45‐4:45 pm (Intermediate) ‐ Saturday 9:30‐10:30 am (Beginners) 097‐227‐6999 panzenyoga@hotmail.com For more informa on please visit my website at h p://panzenyoga.wix.com/panzen

YOGA WITH NAPISA, 500 RYT

IYENGAR YOGA

KUNDALINI YOGA

Mornings: Monday, 8:45‐10:15 am: Restora ve Yoga, all levels. Wednesday 7:45‐9:15am: Level II. Friday 7:45‐9:00 am: Beg I‐II A ernoons Wednesday 4:30‐5:45 pm: Beg I‐II Thursday, 4:30‐5:45 pm. Restora ve Yoga. All Levels @ Nichada Fitness Studio above Starbucks. "Nava Apprecia on Package" special for ISB teachers, spouses & staﬀ. Prenatal & Private classes available. Contact Napisa C. Pant, 086‐975‐7187, napisapant.yoga@gmail.com, FB: YogaWithNapisa

Iyengar yoga classes at the Regent, from Beginners to Advanced Asanas. Every weekday Monday to Friday from 07:50 am‐09:20 am. Contact: 081‐285‐3050, Juan Bodan, Iyengar and Ashtanga yoga Cer fied. For more informa on about Juan please visit h p://kripa‐yoga.com/

MEDITATION COURSES ‐Individual or Group Learn TM (Transcendental Medita on). Relieves stress and anxiety. Improves health, academic, athle c, and professional performance. Anyone can learn. Expert instruc on by a 35‐year teacher of medita on. Contact Ellie Edelhoﬀ eedelhoﬀ@hotmail.com www.TM.org or www.DavidLynchFounda on.org

Tutorials PIANO LESSONS FOR ALL AGES and ALL LEVELS ????? By experienced professional with a Masters from University of Ariz. in Piano Performance and experience teaching at Westover School in Connec cut. Place: 39/891 Regent Price: 1000 baht per 30 minutes Contact Info: capricio310@gmail.com Tel: 091‐878‐6283

WORLD ENGLISH Enjoy refining skills in oral English and composi on with American, DEBORAH DUNTHORN, BA, MFA, TESL Cert. 30 years interna onal experience coaching academic, professional, and other clients of all ages and levels of proficiency. To discuss private or group tui on contact 083‐055‐9785 or debhata@yahoo.com. 20

Thani Talk-October 2016

Community Fitness and Activities

Exercise Classes

Sports

BOLLYWOOD DANCE

BIKING

Bollywood dance is an exci ng and upbeat fusion of Western and Eastern dances with tradi onal classical Indian dance styles. It’s funky, it’s sexy, it’s fun... and it’s a great workout! If you love to dance – this is for you! Wednesdays or Thursdays or Fridays 9:30‐10:30am All classes held in Nichada Studio above Starbucks. For further informa on, contact Irit: 086‐004‐4840 iritmike@gmail.com

Weekend bike rides, leaving from back gate at 7am, 50+km on mtn bikes. Contact Chris: caoglesby@hotmail.com Weekday rides leave the back gate at 7:30 a.m. Distance and terrain varies with groups for both road bikes and mountain/hybrid bikes. Contact Henrie a Bullinger: hbullinger@gmail.com

LATIN RYHTHYMS DANCE CLASS Come to move your hips, salsa, merengue, bachata, regueton, zamba, rock and roll, cumbia, pop (English & Spanish), quebradita, and more! Come and try this fun and very cardio class, feel the music. Improve your dancing skills. No dance Experience needed. Beginners: Tuesdays 7:15 to 8:15 am (half of my funds on Tuesdays go for Charity) Saturdays 9:30 to 10:30. Studio above Starbucks. 150 THB per person. Advanced: Mondays 8:30 to 9:30 Wednesdays 8:30 to 9:30 . (For advance class informa on, contact me ) Contact: Blanca de la Vega 086‐348‐3287 or blancadelavegacid@hotmail.com

ZUMBA Zumba meets everyday at the Chaengwa ana Community Church. Thursday @ 7:45 Monday @ 7:45 Friday @ 7:45 Tuesday@ 8:00 Wednesday@ 7:30 The cost is a dona on basis and it goes directly to the surrounding community non‐profit organiza‐ ons. If there is a class cancella on or changes to the schedule students can find out via our FaceBook page, Zumba Nichada Thani or Google Group,h ps://groups.google.com/forum/#! forum/zumbanichada.

MASTERS SWIMMING Nichada Pool, Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:30‐8:30. Every swimmer is welcome. Contact Catherine Miller: solviken66@hotmail.com 06‐2001‐0000, or Kers n Wild: kers n.bangkok@gmail.com 086‐372‐9750

TENNIS WITH SAGI Cer fied tennis coach, teaching the Play & Stay method at Nichada tennis court, for all ages and levels. Private lessons and groups of up to 4 players. 7 days a week, flexible hours. Tennis is EASY, FUN and HEALTHY, see you on the court! Contact Sagi Lu at 092‐271‐2110 Email: sagilu @hotmail.com

PILATES classes by NICOLE Mondays 7:45‐8:45 in Pres ge club room Wednesdays 9:00 ‐ 10:00 in Pres ge club room and 5‐6 in Regent Fridays 7:45‐8:45 in Pres ge Club room Contact Nicole at info@nophotography.de

Writers Needed

For Arcive Issues of

Thani Talk Sept. 2012 to Sept. 2016 Got a flair for wri ng? Good at mee ng deadlines? Contact Liz at nnrnews@gmail.com

Visit: issuu.com/nnrthanitalk

Heard It Through The Grapevine

Thani Talk-October 2016

Heard It Through the GRAPEVINE This column offers a chance to share all those good finds and tips that are helpful to others. If you have tips to share, please send them to Liz at nnrnews@gmail.com.

Random Thainess: Workshops to Explore Thai Culture Have you ever wondered about: Thai Pretties, Why there are no flies in Bangkok, or The whys behind Thai wais? Random Thainess is a series of talks to explore various topics about Thailand and Thai culture. Every first Monday of the month, Random Thainess is hosted at the organizer’s home, 46 Sathorn Soi 9, from 7pm - 9:30pm. Six speakers are invited, to talk 6 minutes each, about 6 random topics relating to Thailand and Thainess. The setting is very informal; the group of people attending is a good mix of Thais, short- and long-term expats and some travelers. Food and drinks are provided. Tickets are 300 baht, 50% of which is donated to a charity. Emilie Huisman

For more information: http://www.meetup.com/Random-ThainessBangkok/photos/ https://www.facebook.com/random.thainess/

Add a Splash of Color: Unique Homewares by Expat Mom The boxes are unpacked, and now it’s fun to bring in some color and Thailand-inspiration to your new home. Shortly after I moved here, I was lucky to meet Adele, owner of The Twine&Ink and Twig Studio, a talented expat “city” mom and graphic artist who designs beautiful pillow cushions, tea towels, canvas wall art and cards—most with a Bangkok theme or inspiration. I love her work and that it’s made in Thailand. Many of her homewares also make wonderful gifts that easily pack in a suitcase. Check out her products at https://www.facebook.com/TwineandInk/. I’ll also host Adele here in November for pre-holiday shopping. Colleen Fielkow 24

Heard It Through The Grapevine

Thani Talk-October 2016

Impact Arena: Exhibi on Center & Shopping Paradise

Impact convention and exhibition center, Muang Thong Thani, located only 15 minutes from Nichada, is known as the venue for international concerts, sports and entertainment events. It also hosts exhibitions throughout the year that are of interests to expat families. Exhibitors from all over Thailand and Asia come to these shows to present their products to the public. It is a great single stop shop-

ping experience for specialty items, such as electronics, furniture, Thai craft and more. Even if you are not in the market for anything, this is a good place to spend a few hours browsing aisle after aisle of products that showcase designs in Thailand and beyond. We purchased TVs and small appliances in the electronics show when we first arrived in Bangkok. The OTOP show is a good occasion to shop for Thai craft. We have gone to several furniture shows and have been gathering ideas on home furnishing and interior design. The jewelry and gem show, the pet product show and the orchid show are just a few more examples of fun events. Download the "Impact" app or follow them on Facebook for upcoming events. There is something going on almost every week! Sharon Wang

Sudathai: A culinary p for all new‐comers ! Some of you might know this little gem already, a very local small Thai restaurant right outside our back gate in Seecheitong. It’s located just opposite a pet shop, on the right hand side coming from Nichada, facing Chaengwattana. They are open from 10am-10pm everyday and is a perfect little place for an Authentic Thai lunch. Over the summer, they have also boxed in the once outdoor restaurant, and are very proud to welcome us into their new air-conditioned room. ;) The menu is classic Thai: Spicy & tasty, but if you ask for " Mai Phet" (not spicy) they will adjust the chilli for us farangs. Some of our farvourites are : the Wing-bean salad with Shrimps, Pork with ginger , Chicken Cashew, Som Tam with young mango instead of papaya, and fried Morning Glory in Oyster sauce. For children they are happy to make fried rice , as

plain as you want, and their fried eggs are a winner. Everything is always fresh & delicate, proudly prepared by an old grandma in the open kitchen on the corner of the building. They also do take away orders. Ask for a menu next time you drive by. You have to pick up yourself, as they don’t deliver. Tel: 02-2583-2694 Anne Gry Ranchil

Charity News

Thani Talk-October 2016

NNR Dona on Helps Handicapped Boys Make Music

The percussion instruments in the photos on this page were donated by NNR some time ago and are still being used at Baan Rajawadee. A few fellows from the Home went to the IQ Plus Music showroom a few years ago to help pick out many of the instruments. Over time the boys have practiced playing “Happy Birthday” and other simple tunes on the octave bells set. They enjoy jamming whether they were in the sensory room at Baan Rajawadee (which is now closed for renovations) or at the Play Therapy Garden. Listening to music brings a smile to their

faces. Participating by using various percussion instruments, such as bells, shakers and blocks, brings even more happiness. The instruments were selected so that they are easy to hold in your hand or to strap to your wrist with Velcro. Besides the pleasure of making music, the young men developed their eye-hand coordination, stimulated their listening skills, and improved their rhythm. They worked together as a group or “chilled out” as they tried to ‘compose’ a tune on their own. Thank you NNR for providing these durable music makers that have been used over and over. If you are musically inclined, and enjoy simple, spontaneous tunes why not consider coming to visit the boys once a week or month? Bring friends and your own instruments and enjoy making music with the young men for an hour or two. Interested in helping? Contact Dorothy at sailom@projlife.com or 085 320 4523. Dorothy Klynstra

Highlights: NNR September Tour

Thani Talk-October 2016

NNR Sept. 14 Tour: Na onal Museum Bangkok

A meeting at 7:30 am on a Wednesday at the Chevron Theatre, ISB. Sounds a bit like the start to a school trip, but in reality it was the beginning of an enjoyable day at National Museum Bangkok. A group of 13 NNR ladies, plus one gentleman, travelled downtown, ready for the lengthy trip we know all too well. We were extremely surprised to find ourselves, in record time, at the site of “the Front Palace,” or “Wang Na,” which was constructed in 1782. We stopped at the coffee shop The museum, pleasantly air-conditioned, is host to a large collection of antiquities, including statues of Buddha and Vishnu. It was as if we were transported to a different time, and for only 200 baht. Like most museums there are self-guided tours, made possible by a set of headphones with a perfect description in English (and a myriad of other languages) of each piece displayed in the main new building. On Wednesdays and Thursdays beginning at 9:30 am, trained guides from National Museum Volunteers offer free guided tours in Japanese, French, German, and English. The museum complex itself used to be the residence of five Viceroys, or Deputy Kings. Once we dodged the scurrying school children, presumably on a field trip, we meandered to ‘The Buddhaisawan Chapel’, housing the most richly coloured and elaborate murals, the second most respected and sacred Buddha in Thailand, the Phra

Buddha Singh and, outside, a mounting block was available should you come by elephant. We then moved onto what can only be described as a cavernous hall. Encased in the refurbished structure were the royal funeral chariots, a fascinating sight to behold. Overall, it was an excellent trip. There were an endless number of beautiful pieces of art to see, very well set up, and a joy to visit with the benefit of air-conditioning, and being a stone’s throw from the Royal Palace. There is also an opportunity to train as a National Museum guide with the group National Museum Volunteers (NMV). NMV is dedicated to sharing the values, traditions, culture and history of the Kingdom with visitors and residents alike. If you’d like to visit, you can do a guided tour, excursion, listen to lectures, participate in workshops, and more to better understand the country that we live in and its people. Thank you to Susanne and Elizabeth for organizing the trip and being our tour guides for the day. Debra Laidlaw

Highlights: NNR September Social

Thani Talk-October 2016

Highlights: NNR Welcome Back Coﬀee

The NNR Welcome Back Coffee was Friday, September 9 at Shana DeHaven's house. Over 70 people attended, both new and returning residents of Nichada. It was nice to see so many new faces and also many others we haven't seen all summer, to catch up on everything. Representatives from several area clubs and organizations were also present so newcomers could learn what activities are available in the community. Also thank you to Baan Kimchi, Cafe Kabul, Scrumdiliumcious by Cheryl, and Vapor for providing food, and Le Bouchon for providing wine for everyone to enjoy. Six lucky people got a surprise by looking under their chair for a gift certificate provided by Bamboo. A big thank you to all those local businesses. This coffee would not have been possible if Shana DeHaven had not opened up her home. Thank you! Denise Warta

Highlights: NNR September Social

Thani Talk-October 2016

Above: Our hostess Shana DeHaven

Thank you, Shana!

Photos by Ibolya Jeszenszky 31

PEOPLE:

Thani Talk-October 2016

Madison Warta: Teen with Business Sense & Sense of Purpose It’s not every day that you see a 17-year-old high school student juggling school work, friends, three varsity sports a year, church, family, plus her very own profit-making business. Madison Warta, an ISB senior, manages to do it all. And, she is a generous philanthropist to boot. The pretty blonde teenager with a big, bright smile is also the first individual to be a major sponsor of NNR’s Annual Bazaar. It is her personal donation from money she earned herself. That’s right, along with the names of major company sponsors on the NNR Bazaar banner this year, you’ll also see a new logo: Madison’s Chicken.

Madison, who moved to Bangkok with her family three years ago, is a Third Culture Kid whose father’s work with Cargill took the family to Korea when she was in Pre-K, China when she was in Kindergarten, back to Minnesota where she attended 1st through 8th grade, and then to Thailand for her high school years. Madison loves international life. “Living internationally gives me the opportunity that a lot of people don't have.” When her parents, Chuck and Denise Warta, told their three children, including daughter Aubrey and son Carter, that the family would be moving to Thailand, Madison was really excited. Even though some of her best friends are in Minnesota, said Madison, she was ready for a change. She immediately made her mark in her new host country. In her first year at ISB, Madison made the Varsity volleyball team. She also shined in track, specializing in the 400-meter hurdles, and running in relays and medleys. In both sports, Madison is a 4-year varsity player. There’s also Touch Rugby, making Madison a 3-season athlete. You’d think that would be plenty to keep an ISB high school teen busy. But on top of it all, 34

two years ago, Madison launched a chicken business. She had always been entrepreneurial, selling lemonade with older sister Aubrey when they were little. In 5th grade, she and a friend launched a nail business. Customers were her mom, sister, and friends. She got the idea for Madison’s Chicken when her father fried and served batches of Cargill chicken for participants of the Amazing Race hosted by their church, Chaengwattana Community Church. Madison said people were going up to her dad and asking, “Where did you get this chicken? It’s delicious!” Being ever so resourceful, Madison told her dad, “We should sell this!” So it was that Madison’s Chicken was born. Madison buys the chicken directly from Cargill. She takes orders through word-of-mouth publicity, the family driver picks up the chicken from Cargill, and Madison sorts the orders before personally delivering the chicken in the family golf cart.

PEOPLE: At 300 baht per bag with deliveries every two weeks (now cut back to once a month this year), Madison makes enough to cover the cost of the chicken inventory and still have money for herself, as well as for charity. “I save a lot of it for college,” Madison said of the money she has earned from her chicken business. She keeps one-third of the earnings, and half of that is put into savings for her education. “It's also my allowance,” said Madison, adding that her parents pay for her clothes and other living expenses, but that when she goes out with friends, she doesn’t have to ask them for cash, “because I make my own money.”

All those chicken orders added up quickly, enabling Madison to personally donate a 50,000 baht playground and benches to children living at the Nichada workers’ camp. This fall, Madison chose to support the NNR Bazaar by donating 30,000 baht as a major sponsor. “My mom suggested it,” she said. “I thought it was a great idea.” Aside from donating chicken proceeds, Madison has also donated her laptop computer to the neighborhood Bumble Bee Free Library. Her parents had given her a computer, but when ISB also issued her a computer, she and her family decided to donate her computer to the library. Madison could have kept the chicken profits all to herself, but from Day One she has been donating one third of her earnings to charity. “I definitely think that people here and everywhere have way more than what we need,” she said. “Even when you walk outside Nichada you realize that and want to do something about it.” By sponsoring this year’s NNR Bazaar, Madison said she can support a wider range of charities. “It helps more people than what I could do.” NNR supports eight charities on a regular

Thani Talk-October 2016

basis, as well as numerous other non-profits. Most intriguing is how a teenager such as Madison is inspired to do what she does. “Ever since I was young, we've had a family mission statement,” said Madison. She pointed to a wall near the staircase of her family’s 2-floor Nichada apartment, where a stenciled message was surrounded by eight unique crosses her mother had collected through the years. "The Warta Family Mission Statement: In our family, we take responsibility for ourselves, our health and our behavior. We respect and help each other. We share what we have, use good manners, and live by God's ways." “Every time there's conflict,” said Madison, “we go back to the mission statement. My dad quotes the mission statement. When I have kids, I’ll probably use it too” Her parents have been important role models in her life. "My dad. He's the most hardworking person I know,” she said. “He always has something to say that makes me think differently. And also my mom. She's been there for me all the time. They are so selfless.” Madison’s faith is also a source of strength that centers her. “I have always been Christian.,” she said. “I believe in God. I give back. Giving back to the community has always been a goal. We are all so blessed.” The slogan for Madison’s thriving chicken business is “Chicken You Can Feel Good About”. She explained the reasoning behind the slogan. "You're buying something for yourself, but at the same time you're also giving to other people. So, you can feel good about eating the chicken, because it's going to a good cause." Liz Lu

To order Madison’s Chicken, email: warta.madison@gmail.com 35

Community News

Thani Talk-October2016

Save the Date! Cocktails and Characters Nov. 12 Bumble Bee Free Library Bumble Bee Free Library, a neighborhood library that opened in a little shophouse just outside Nichada last fall, will be hosting a Cocktails and Characters fundraiser Nov. 12. Proceeds will help fund free activities such as library services, English classes, and Story Time for mom and tots, for our entire community. Bumble Bee is dedicated to encouraging reading, learning and bringing the Thai and expat communities together. Guests at the Cocktails and Characters event are invited to attend dressed as their favorite book character. The evening starts with fun cocktails

such as “Tequila Mocking Bird” and includes fine food, games, music and friendship. The event will take place poolside in a resort -like setting, at Mansions in the Park. Guests will also be invited to visit the Bumble Bee Free Library, located right next door. To join Cocktails and Characters and support a non-profit service right here in our own neighborhood, mark your calendars now for Nov. 12. For more info or to buy tickets, please email Kim Ellison at: bumblebeefreelibrary@gmail.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the Facebook page: Bumble Bee Free Library.

Zumba Team Nichada Dances to Support Breast Cancer Preven on Our Zumba Team Nichada started five years ago with Mary Turner, a Nichada mom. It is still going strong, growing stronger, brighter and bigger. We now hold zumba classes every weekday at the Chaengwattana Community Church in Nichada Thani. Class times are as follows: Monday, Thursday, Friday (7:45 am) Tuesday (8 am) Wednesday (7:30 am) Our Zumba instructors now are Stacey, Janel, Heather, Ynna and Myra. All donations (minimum100 baht per class) are split between paying for the venue (Church Hall) and giving back to the community. All the donations go to various charity projects selected by Zumba Team Nichada. Thank you to everyone in the community. We dance, spread the joy and give back, to those who are less fortunate. Pink October is devoted to helping women and fighting the beast: Breast Cancer. How can we fight it? We are not scientists, but we are dancers, mothers, women. We spread love and joy through awareness. So we dance. 38

Zumbathon is back. This year all the funds will go to the Queen Sirikit Breast Cancer Foundation. The foundation aims to build Thailand's first non-profit Holistic Care Center for breast cancer patients -The Pink Park Village - a hospice and convalescence home for underprivileged breast cancer patients. It is a day care & activity center, learning & training center, as well as a breast cancer diagnostic center for all women. All donations will go directly to support the village. Care and support will be provided free of charge to women facing incurable, advance stages of breast cancer. The Village will also help educate and diagnose those who are at risk. The charity Zumbathon will be held on October 4th, from 7pm to 9pm, at Sheraton Grand Sukhumvit. Tickets cost 500 baht (early bird) and 700 baht (at the door). Private donations are also accepted and appreciated. Please contact partyinpinkthailand@gmail.com/ 081-898-8187). Additional info available at: www.sheratongrandesukhumvit.com Come dance and join us for this good cause! Sanja Stanley

Community News

Thani Talk-October 2016

Religious Venues

Worship Venues:

Chaengwattana Community Church Sunday Service—9:30am Encouraging Women—Wednesdays, 9 am Community Prayer—Thursdays, 10 am Youth Alpha Group (high school) Thursdays, 7 pm Youth Group (middle school) Thursdays, 5:30pm Contact: Andrew Pennels, Interim Pastor Tel: 02-911-6700 Website: www.cccthailand.org

Mosque Soi Prasert Issaram Mosque 8 Moo 3 Soi Prasert Issaram, Pakkred, Nonthaburi Neighborhood mosque near Nichada Thani.

Buddhist Temple Wat Bua Khwan (วัดบัวขวัญ) 1 Moo 9 Ngamwongwan Road, Nonthaburi 02-952-8062; Watbuakhwan.com Popular local temple offering merit-making, prayer, blessings and funeral services. 15 minutes from Nichada.

Synagogue Beth Elisheva Synagogue, Mikveh & Jewish Center. 121 Soi SaiNamThip 2, Sukhumvit Road, Soi 22. Tel: 02-663-0244; Fax: 663-0245 Thailand Progressive Jewish Community Contacts: Narissara Udomvongsa, Alec Goldman, Elissa Miller-Kay or Michael R. March (Members) Telephone: 02-023-5019 or 081-257-2411 Address: 39/722 Lakeshore North, Nichada Thani. Activities: Monthly Shabbat dinner and service, High Holiday celebrations, Community Passover Seder, and other Jewish holidays.

Thani Talk-October 2016

Religious Venues

Worship Venues:

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 50/33 Moo 4 Chaengwattana Road Sunday Worship Service--11am (in English) Family History Research Group--Mon. 9-12 p.m. Book Group--2nd Wed./month, 11 a.m. “Foodie” Group--1st Tues./month,10 a.m. Youth Group—Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. Contact: Bishop Doug Dent (0982805705) fddent@gmail.com

Catholic Mass in Nonthaburi Our Lady of Mercy Church 69/13 Moo 1, Tiwanon Rd. Ban Mai, Pakkred. English Mass: Sundays at 5:15pm Contact us at: ourladyofmercyparish@gmail.com Discover the Rosary, contact Chris at hushh@hotmail.com International Church of Bangkok Sunday Morning Service (Traditional) : 10-11 a.m., at Bangkok Christian College near Surasak BTS. Children's Sunday School during morning worship. Sunday Evening Service (Contemporary): 6-7 p.m., at Student Christian Center, Ratchatewi BTS. Contact: http://www.icbangkok.org/

Bahá’í Worship services Address: 40/265 Chaengwattana Soi 28, 6/F Royal Tower Condominium, Pakkred, Nonthaburi Website: www.bahai.org; www.bahai.or.th (Thai) Contact person: Ms. Sulee Kaewprasert Tel: 02-530-7417. Email: info@bahai.or.th

Hindu Worship Venues Dev Mandir: The Hindu Samaj Association 136/1 -2 Siripong Road, Sao Chingcha, Bangkok.Tel: 02 223 8494 Digambar Jain Temple: Building # 143/3, Soi Putha Osot, Maha Set Road, Bangkok Geeta Ashram Thailand: 444/4, Soi Sowaneet, Yaek C-One Mansion, Sukhumvit Soi 50, Phra Khanong, Khlong Toey, Bangkok. Email: info@geetaashramthailand.org 41

Thani Talk-October 2016

Travel:

Jakarta Inspira ons:

Flickr.com

Sprawling Megalopolis Infused with Cultural Charm

Jakarta is the largest city in Southeast Asia. According to ASEAN statistics, the population is just over 10 million, slightly larger than Bangkok at 8.3 million. The more accurate metric of this massive urban sprawl known as the Jakarta “megalopolis” is 30 million people, more than three times the population of the Bangkok metropolitan area. I didn’t know these exact numbers before I moved here six months ago, although I was a bit apprehensive that I might be swallowed up by legendary traffic jams, flooding and horrible pollution. In addition, there is no place in Jakarta to live in a self-sufficient suburban neighborhood like the Nichada Bubble, with that quick backdoor exit to rural bliss (*sigh*). In Jakarta, we live integrated into the big city and I can honestly say, it has been one big pleasant surprise after another! Perhaps it is my eternal sunshine optimism, or having been a resident of other Asian megalopolises like Beijing and Manila. Yes, Jakarta is big and noisy, and evidence of grinding poverty is not hard to find. However, Jakarta is actually a beautiful city if you look past the problems and concentrate on the character of its unique attractions (worthwhile tourist attractions!) and proud cultural heritage. 44

I am still in the tourist phase here. I have wandered around some landmarks in Batavia, the Old Dutch colonial part of the city; the National Museum; an assortment of traditional markets like Mayestik, Santa, and Tanah Abang; and a VIP tour of the neighborhood school attended by US President Obama when he was a young boy. Jakarta also has amazing hotels, oodles of restaurants, lots of open spaces, trendy office centers and huge (or as Bernie Sanders would say, “Yuge!”) shopping malls.

Travel:

Thani Talk-October 2016

Recently I had the chance to attend a class to try my hand at making batik. It was fun, but challenging to use the authentic “canting” tool to apply a thin line of hot wax on a piece of white cloth following a line of pencil outlining a simple, traditional pattern. It took over two hours to decorate one handkerchief size piece of cloth! After a dip in dye then in hot water to remove the wax, I got to take home my DIY batik masterpiece. I am thankful for this new inspiration to continue to explore batik and other tourist adventures in this giant city. Meg Sine

kids.britannica.com

Indeed, I learned on a tour of the Museum Tekstil, with many gorgeous examples of batik on display, that UNESCO has recognized Javanese batik as an “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.” Traditional designs and colors are used all over the archipelago to denote geography, tribe and social rank. Batik design is also used to symbolize spiritual beliefs connected with childbirth, marriage and funerals.

Suara.com

easyfreepatterns.com

Twitter.com

So far, the one thing that has truly captured my imagination, however, is batik. This textile art form exists in Africa, India, Southeast Asia and the Arab world, but Indonesia (Java) has brought this wax resist technique to greatest acclaim. Walking around Jakarta, infinite styles and colors of batik seem to be the national dress for both genders and the inspiration of many decorations. Batik is definitely an important part of the cultural identity of the Indonesian people.

Thani Talk-October 2016

Restaurant Review

Jan Suai: Beau ful Plates Mediterranean Eatery Relocates to Pakkred

The Thai words “Jan Suai”, the name of the restaurant reviewed this month, literally mean beautiful plates. The name was inspired by the collection of beautiful plates that adorn the restaurant walls. This place not only has beautiful plates, but its dishes are succulently delicious as well. I have frequented Jan Suai ever since they were located on Soi Sukhumwit 39 in downtown Bangkok. My family especially loves the liver pate (even the kids! but I told them it’s called pate, conveniently omitting the “liver” part), and the lamb stew. So whenever I’d go downtown, I’d call them and order some pate to go. Last year, I called the restaurant to place my order as usual only to find out they were closed. Devastated, I searched online and got a cell phone number. I called that number and discovered they’d not closed, only relocated. “Where to?” I asked. “It’s kinda far,” was the answer I got. My heart sank when I asked, “Where exactly?” They replied “Pakkred”!!! Wow! What a great coincidence! Jan Suai is located on the Bypass Road (on the opposite side of Paulaner’s), roughly half way between the Tawandaeng German Brewery and Soi Prasert Islam. Their purple and yellow sign advertises Mediterranean Cuisine. They maintain their décor of warm yellow tone, flowery-patterned table clothes and decorative plates on the wall, similar to their original restaurant downtown. What hasn’t changed is their menu, which comprises of a decent selection in each category. For starters, you must try their liver pate served with warm, freshly toasted bread and butter. The garlic bread cut into small pieces can be ordered as a starter or to complement your other dishes. The owner said that their eggplant au gratin is also another one of their popular dishes. In the soup and salad category, we’ve tried the spinach soup and the tomato soup, which I guess are freshly made because they take quite a long time to come. The tomato soup is the perfect combination of just the right amount of cream and a taste of real tomatoes. Another one of our family’s favorites!

Their selection of main dishes ranges from baked dory in garlic and olive oil to grilled chicken with chilli to duck breast in peach sauces and pork with blue cheese cream sauce. We obviously haven’t tried everything, but the duck breast stands out as well as the pork belly with rosemary. Unfortunately, our other favorite, the lamb stew, was taken off the menu due to the difficulty of sourcing quality lamb.

If you are concerned what your little ones will eat, they have a wide variety of pasta dishes. My little one’s favorite is the baked macaroni with ham and cheese. Their desert menu varies depending on which day you visit. On a particular Friday when we were there, it was home-made apple crumble. We were too stuffed to try it, but I am sure it wouldn’t disappoint. Jan Suai also has a very limited selection of wines. But bring your own! They never charge me a corkage fee. In conclusion, Jan Suai is a restaurant definitely worth trying. It’s not often you can get a downtown restaurant relocated right into your neck of the woods! It’s a very small establishment giving you the feeling of eating at home. They are not usually busy even on weekends, possibly because not a lot of people know about them. It would be a shame for a decades-old restaurant with great food and decent prices to close down. So why wait? Give them a try! Vara Sumetanon 49

Delivery Restaurant

Phone

Baan Kimchi Korean BBQ/Thai Cuisine

02-952-0031

Burger King/Pizza Company

1112

Café Kabul (Indian and Afghan)

02-960-3368

Cherry’s Cakes

080-070-0180

Indian Darbar

084-671-8318

KFC and Pizza Hut Le Bouchon Food Delivery McDonald’s Mr. Enzo’s New York Diner

1150 02-960-3011 1711 02-960-0412 081-624-2099

Pinocchio's

02-573-5646

Que Pasa

02-960-3821

Salad Factory

02-001-5659

Scoozi

02-715-8555

Subway

02-960-3232

Sudhathai

02-583-2694

Slider Shack

086-773-4140

Vapor Restaurant

02-832-0055

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Phone 02-583-9871 02-582-2669 087-099-4569 081-811-8455 02-960-4216 02-960-4326 / 27 085-042-6054 061-541-6353 02-960-3783 02-960-3988 02-960-3691 02-963-5800 084-022-9928 02-960-4300 081-828-2562 02-960-3934 081 834 1306 02-960-3663 090-564-8927 02-967-9686 02-960-3585 085-945-4132 02-960-4189