December 2018
N o w o n l i n e a t : w w w. i s s u u . c o m / n n r t h a n i t a l k
Thani Talk NONTHABURI NEIGHBORHOOD REACH
Serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994
NNR Bazaar: Thanking Sponsors & Donors Pages 6-11
Grapevine: Helpful Tips Pages 20-21
Travel: Island Hopping in Thailand Page 28-29
Community: Fundraiser, Anniversary, Grand Opening Pages 34-38 Thani Talk is generously sponsored by: September 2018
T h a n i Ta l k
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 by hosting the NNR Annual Charity Bazaar. Additionally, NNR hosts monthly socials and organizes monthly tours. There are no membership dues, and anyone living in Nonthaburi is already a member.
Connect with NNR
facebook.com/nnrthailand
issuu.com/nnrthanitalk
Unofficialnichada.com
Thani Talk Ad Rates 1 page
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2160 baht
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Rates per issue; discount for 8 and 4 month contracts Based on space availability Deadline for all ads is the 10th of each month Contact nnradverts@gmail.com for more information
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 2018-2019 Chairperson
Henrietta Bullinger
NNRThaiChair@gmail.com
Vice Chairperson
Sally Elliott
sallyelliott@me.com
Treasurer
Sandra Wilson
nnrthaitreasurer@gmail.com
Activity/Tour Coordinators
Pascale Kervyn Maida Muslic-Kovar
nnrtour@gmail.com
NNR Socials
Chantal Bremner
nnrsocial@gmail.com
Charity & Volunteer Coordinators
Liz Garrigan Imogen Lee
nnrcharity@gmail.com
Advertising Director
Ginny Condra
Thani Talk News Team
Liz Lu (Editor) See below for Thani Talk Team
nnrnews@gmail.com
Distribution Coordinators
Birgit Sund
nnrttdist@gmail.com
Communications Director
Kiki O’Connor
nnrcommunications@gmail. com
095-247-5692 nnradverts@gmail.com
Thani Talk Team: Advertising Director and Proofreader (Ginny Condra), Rose Marie Academy Graphics Consultant (Bill Fear), Restaurant Reviewers (John Marinos, Vara Sumetanon, Barb Lewis), Grapevine Tips Coordinator (Laurie Burin), Distribution Coordinator ( Birgit Sund). 2 December 2018 T h a n i Ta l k
Letter from NNR’s Chairperson
The Importance of Kindness I would like to thank all of you for your generosity in supporting those less fortunate than ourselves. In particular I want to take the opportunity to thank our wonderful Sally Elliott for all her hard work and dedication that made this year’s NNR Charity Bazaar such a success, both as a fundraiser and as a community event. This is the second year that Sally has been the bazaar coordinator and she has shown us that this bazaar is more than just a shopping extravaganza; it is a reflection of our unique community. Our charity bazaar comes at the beginning of the holiday season and reminds us how much we have to be grateful for; it reminds us of the importance of kindness and collaboration. Wishing everyone an enjoyable, peaceful, and relaxing end to the year, and all the very best for 2019. Henrietta Bullinger NNR Chairperson
Inside This Issue NNR Social
Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach
A volunteer group serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994 Calendar of Events
Letter from NNR’s Chairperson NNR Social NNR Tour NNR Charity Bazaar Highlights Feature Heard It Through the Grapevine Fitness & Activities Nonthaburi & Beyond Travel Community News Highlights: NNR Tour Restaurant Review
3 4 5 7 15 20 22 23 28 34 42 49
Dec. 5: Birthday anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Also Thai Father’s Day. Dec. 7: ISB Black & Gold Ball, p. 27 Dec. 14: Comedy Den, p. 18 Dec. 14: Grand Opening, Sweet Poppy, p. 19 Dec. 25: Christmas Day Jan. 11: NNR Tour, Bangkok Art Biennale, p. 5 Feb. 9: NNR Social: Running Dinner, p. 4 Full Calendar listing on p. 23
Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach December 2018
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Cover photo by Laurie Burin “Reclining Buddha” Photo taken at Wat Pho Bangkok, Thailand 3
NNR Social
Running Dinner
Saturday, February 9, 2019 - Looking for an easy fun night out? - Interested in connecting with your neighbors? - Do you have another person to sign up with you? - Want to enjoy a three course meal in a fun way? - The Running Dinner is for you! Sign up for the Running Dinner at runningdinner5@gmail.com by February 4, 2019. The Running Dinner starts at 7pm. Courses are hosted in homes within golf cart range in Nichada. Your partner does not have to be your spouse. You can bring a friend along! Please include your name, partner’s name, address, phone number and any allergies when you sign up!
Chantal Bremner NNR Social Coordinator Email: nnrsocial@gmail.com 4
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December 2018
NNR Tour
Visit Exhibits Featured in the Bangkok Art Biennale NNR Tour for JANUARY, 2019 Bangkok Art Biennale (BAB) runs from October 2018 to February 2019. A host of exhibits are shown in many different places across Bangkok. The BAB showcases Thai, ASEAN and internationally recognized contemporary artists. The tour will take us to the Alliance Francaise where two Chinese artists display their work. Then we will go to the brand new One Bangkok building where an impressive collection of pieces by international artists are on display. We will finish with a (self paying) lunch, time allowing. Your NNR tour coordinators, Pascale Kervyn Maida Muslic-Kovar Date: Friday, January 11, 2019 Time: 8am - 2pm Where: Meet in front of Chevron Theater Cost: 400 baht per person To sign up: Email nnrtour@gmail. com Hurry - Space is limited to 12 participants!
Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach December 2018
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Thank you to Nonthaburi Neighbors for Supporting the NNR Charity Bazaar Well! What can I say? Except a HUGE thank you to all those involved in helping to make this 24th year of the NNR Bazaar such a wonderful event! I cannot thank Nichada and its customer relations manager Scott Roman enough for their magnificent support. The 2018 NNR Charity Bazaar moved from the Chaengwattana Community Church back to the Nichada Club this year. I also want to thank my fabulous team of Helpers (with a Capital ‘H’!). You know who you are, and I salute you for your cheerful brilliance! Natalie, Cigdem, Jelena, Stephanie, Jamna, Ginny, Sara, Birgit, Chantal, Liz, Imogen, Barb, Pauline and all the others who contributed to our day. In all, 61 superb vendors helped over 300 of us tick off our Christmas shopping lists. A café of fabulous proportions topped us up throughout the day; Khun Nong, our on-site bazaar masseuse, pampered our tired limbs; and an exciting raffle tempted us with prizes. These events give us a taste of what it is like to be a part of something that is bigger than ourselves. NNR raised over 600,000 baht which will help our ten charities bring a little more comfort to those in our community who are in need. Thank you, to all of you who came along, for your fabulous generosity!! Sally Elliott, Chairperson, NNR Charity Bazaar
NNR-Supported Charities & Non-Profits
Construction Workers Camp Baan Kredtrakan Home for Girls (I-Care Foundation) Baan Poomwaet Home for Boys (I-Care Foundation) Bumble Bee Free Library Christian Care Foundation for Children with Disabilities in Thailand (CCD) Home for the Destitute Home for Hope 1Step2Step Sailom Project Thanksgiving Home
Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach
NNR Charity Bazaar Highlights
Thank You to Our Fantastic Sponsors for Making the NNR Charity Bazaar Possible
December 2018
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Thank You to Our Generous Friends & Family Donors NNR’s Friends & Family Donor Program The following donors each contributed 10,000 baht to support NNR charities Khop Khun Maak Kha!
Chaengwattana Community Church (CCC) Happy Teeth Dental Clinic Dr. Sayan Veterinary Clinic MedConsult Clinic Vic and Gill Adams Jan Van Ekeren and Kevin Sypolt Rick and Terri Thomas Sally and Graham Elliott The Babra-Bullinger Family
Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach
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December 2018
With Appreciation to Raffle Prize Donors Non-Vendor Raffle Prize Donors
Minor International Public Co. Ltd., including: Anantara Riverside Bangkok Hotel The St. Regis Bangkok Parichat Court, Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel Coffee Club, Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel Bamboo Spa Butcher Beef and Beer Restaurant Das Powerhaus Expat Holidays Thailand Indus Restaurant Asian Kitchen Tailoring Le Bouchon Restaurant Panipa Punjaab Grill, Radisson Suites Sukhumvit Que Pasa Restaurant Raja’s Fashions Royal Copenhagen China SJ Jewelry Spice Roads Cycling Adventures Sandra’s Bavarian Delights
December 2018
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With Appreciation to Raffle Prize Donors
Vendor Raffle Prize Donors Ablerind Arlani Design Group Audrey & Honor Babypicks Below Eleven Ice-cream Bespoke Lingerie Blooming Bodhi Creations Carry On Let Chamaliin Christian Care Foundation Dainty Jewelry Desert Diamonds Ellie Edlehoff Photography Felt & Co. Forever Living Gioia/Viva La Casa Home for the Destitute iCare Incredible Edibles ISB Social Ventures Jaab Cards Design Co. Janice Santikarn Books K. Nid Porcelain Kathy Mannikko Photography LandMine Design Lao Song Crafts lil n hip 10
Living Recovery Centre London Pie Company Lorimoon Kids Lotus Reiki & Yoga Mekong Quilts Mon Voyage Ms. LUXE Nancy Chandler Nina Heyer Bags O’ Henry Olive Mediterranean Restaurant Pandit Carpets Pure Harmony Spa Products Refugee Support Royrak Ruby Slippers Sala Stainless Steel SAPA STYLE SCBKK Signature By Laurence Sop Moei Arts Stories of Silver and Silk Tata and Ali Thanksgiving Home TOM K. Just be Jewellery Urban Pantry XOCO Chocolates Yesterday Once Again
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December 2018
Cover Story: Charities
Photos submitted by Kiki O’Connor & Sally Elliott
December 2018
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December 2018
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Feature
iFound iPhone: Journey of a Lost Phone Every now and then, I spot a Facebook post in Expats of Nichada that describes a predicament so unique that the story cries out for a followup. It happened back in March when Line Kjaergaard announced in the FB group that she had forgotten she left her running shoes to dry on the roof of her golf cart. She later drove off and the shoes fell off in different parts of the neighborhood. But lo and behold, neighbors spotted them, and she was reunited with her shoes. So, when Cassie Waters recently left her iPhone behind in a taxi but miraculously found it, the saga called for another first-person tale. Liz Lu, Editor On November 10th I departed Dentajoy at The Avenues on Chaengwattana Road with a cranky tween. I found I could not log in to my Grab app on my days-old iPhone XS. Frustration set in, but I found the security at Villa willing to help find a taxi. The driver was good humored with my Thai directions and got us home. Panic set in later when I realized I’d left my phone in the taxi! My husband and children began calling it. My daughter texted “If you are kind and nice you will return the phone to Nichada Casa.” I logged in to the Find iPhone app on my son’s phone. He sounded the lost signal repeatedly as we tracked the phone going further away down the Sirat Expressway. I made a desperate plea to the Expats of Nichada Facebook page for any “hope”. I was receiving FB guidance to check with the closest police station, my neighborhood guards, and even a local radio station that might make an announcement to drivers. Luckily, the driver answered one of my daughter’s many calls to my phone, and she asked him to please bring the phone back. Would he chuck it? Another call was answered, but the iPhone tracker showed the phone going deeper into downtown Bangkok. I went to the Nichada guard booth as a FB member had suggested. The guards write down license plates every time someone goes out. I called the license info in to Nichada Security who were able to contact the driver. A guard came to say it should be back in 30 minutes. We watched as the phone moved closer. I updated the FB posts of our progress and waited. The driver arrived to my immense gratitude. He was in good humor. Thai humanity is different than American. I thought how this wouldn’t have been as likely in the United States. I reached out to Facebook for hope. I found it in December 2018
one cab driver who was more “nice and kind” than my daughter ever could imagine. I paid the fare from Bangkok and a generous tip. After all, he’d returned over $1,000 US dollars to me, along with a deeper belief in human kindness. Cassie Waters
What to do if you leave your phone behind in a taxi: * Contact the nearest police station to where it was lost and make a report * Track it on the Find iPhone app if it’s an iPhone. Track it on the Find My Device app for Androids. * If you took a photo of the driver ID displayed inside every taxi ( a good practice to follow), see if the photo has been uploaded to the cloud * Check with your Nichada guard for the license plate number and engage Nichada Security (Tel: 02-960-4352) * Call the Cab company * Contact radio station Surf 91 ( Tel: d1644) to make an announcement to drivers * Breathe and have faith
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Heard It Through the Grapevine
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.
Time to Get Festive at The Christmas Shop at Nonthaburi It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Time for candy canes, Christmas carols, and decorating your house in lights, tinsel, and anything red and green. The Christmas Shop at Nonthaburi has everything you could possibly need for your holiday decorating. The shop is filled from floor to ceiling with artificial trees, wreaths, ornaments, ribbon, and decorations. Everything sparkles and makes you want to skip around the store singing “fa-la-la-la-la”. Don’t miss this unique store especially at this time of year. Your Christmas decorating won’t be complete without it. Laurie Burin 124 Soi Liangmuangnonthaburi 15, Nonthaburi Tel: 029-669-1678 Website: thaiartborne.com Email: contact@thaiartborne.co.th Facebook: Christmas Shop at Nonthaburi Hours: 9am - 5pm
Desert Diamonds: What Women Want
Desert Diamonds Email: ddgloballtd@gmail.com Facebook: desertdiamondsjewelry Website: www.desertdiamondsjewelry.com 20
Sometimes it’s nice to treat yourself. Desert Diamonds offers premium grade Diamond Simulants, set in rhodium plated sterling silver or solid gold (18k or 14k) at an affordable price. I’ve visited their booth at two craft fairs, and have gone to their showroom. Each time I see their rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings I’m in awe at how real they look. The quality is fantastic, and their designs are timeless. I bought a beautiful pair of earrings from them and have received many compliments. Sally Crowley, Managing Director at Desert Diamonds, is wonderful and happy to help you place an order. If you’re looking for a fantastic gift for someone special, or just want to treat yourself, you won’t be disappointed!
T h a n i Ta l k
Laurie Burin December 2018
Heard It Through the Grapevine
JumNails: Local Nail Salon Offers Top Service
Looking for a beautiful manicure or pedicure for a holiday event? Or, just want to have gorgeous nails to show off? I highly recommend JumNails. Khun Jum has been in the Nichada neighborhood for 4 years and I’ve had the good fortune to be her customer since she arrived. Intricate nail art is one of her specialties – check out her handiwork on Facebook at Jum naildesign. Personally, I’ve had great luck with her long-lasting gel manicures. She has the largest selections of colors I’ve seen anywhere in Thailand or the U.S. and all services are provided in a very comfortable salon setting. JumNails’ shop hours are Monday to Saturday from 8.30am to 7pm
and on Sunday by appointment. Her salon is located just outside the Nichada front gate to the right on Samakkee 18. Please give her a try – you’ll be very happy you did! Jan Van Ekeren Tel: 084 754 1395 or 02 952 3635. Facebook: Jum Naildesign Line app: jum_nail.
ST Trading Handicraft Decor & Gifts Just Outside Nichada’s Main Gate You’ve probably seen the friendly owners of ST Trading Handicraft at craft fairs and Secret Garden, but did you know they operate a shop right outside Nichada’s main gate? (35/2 Soi Prasoet Islam 16). Tucked right next to New York Diner, this little shop is packed full of traditional Thai and Indian home decor items. We bought a very unique bronze frog rain drum table from them, and it has become a conversation piece whenever people come to our home. You might want to pop into this cute little store right now to find a selection of unique handcarved Santas that would make a wonderful addition to your Christmas decorations. Laurie Burin Tel: Ali 081-736-3749. Facebook: tata syed Email: abbas.syed419@gmail.com December 2018
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Fitness & Activities Community FitnessNeighborhood & Activities Listings Nichada
Yoga & Fitness Classes Community Fitness & Activities Listings Alignment Based Yoga with Napisa Kundalini Yoga
Ashtanga Yoga with PanZen PanZen, 097-227-6999 panzenyoga@hotmail.com http://panzenyoga.wix.com/panzen
Napisa Pant, 086-975-7187 napisapant.yoga@gmail.com FB: yogawithnapisa
Ashtanga Yoga with Marie Marie Massard, 098-882-8990 marie.massard@gmail.com Class fees donated to BBFL.
Underdog Wellness Fitness Classes (UW) Yoga, Booty Barre, Mat & Reformer Pilates Stacy Klob, scklobhome@icloud.com FB: Underdog Wellness
Iyengar Yoga Juan Bodan, 081-285-3050 Monday
Weekly Schedule Wednesday
Tuesday
Iyengar Yoga Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:20 7:50-9:20 Napisa Restorative Kundalini Yoga Beginners 8:45-10:15 Mixed level 9:30-11:00 Napisa Evening Yoga Underdog Wellness 5:00-6:15 pm 9:30 Booty Barre 10:30 Yoga Ashtanga Yoga PanZen 3:45-4:45
Kundalini Yoga All Levels 7:45-9:15 Napisa Alignment Flow 7:45-9:15 Level 2 Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:20 Underdog Wellness 9:30 Yin Yoga Ashtanga Yoga PanZen 3:45-4:45
Kerstin Wilde, 086-372-9750 kerstin.bangkok@gmail.com www.yoga-of-awareness.com Private classes available
Das PowerHaus Pilates + TRX Reformer, mat with props, TRX Joanna Brittingham, 089-846-6610 joanna.brittingham@gmail.com FB: @daspowerhausnichada
Thursday
Friday
Iyengar Yoga Kundalini Yoga All Levels 7:50-9:15 7:45-9:15 Underdog Wellness Napisa Alignment Flow 9:30 Mat Pilates 7:45-9:00 Beg-Level 1 Ashtanga Yoga PanZen Iyengar Yoga 3:45-4:45 7:50-9:20 Napisa Teen Yoga Ashtanga Yoga Marie 5:00-6:00 pm 9:30-11:00 **Sunday** Ashtanga Yoga Marie 7:30-9:00
Meditation Learn TM (Transcendental Meditation) Expert instruction by a 35-year teacher of meditation. Â Contact Ellie: eedelhoff@hotmail.com www.TM.org www.DavidLynchFoundation.org
Meditation - Dynamic & Vipassana Meditation Monday 9:00-10:30, Terrace Residence/Nichada Thani Teaching, meditation and Q&A Marie Massard, 098-882-8990 (What’s App & Line) marie.massard@gmail.com
Dance Bollywood Dance Suitable for all levels! Wed & Thurs 9:30-10:30 Afternoon Classes: Tues or Wed 5:00-6:00 Contact Irit: 086-004-4840 iritmike@gmail.com Zumba Chaengwattana Community Church Mon, Wed & Friday FB: Zumba Nichada Thani Class fee donated to charity!
Sport Masters Swimming - Nichada Pool, Tues & Thurs 7:30-8:30 Contact: Kerstin Wild, kerstin.bangkok@gmail.com Biking - Meet at Sichaitong gate! Weekday rides Mon & Wed at 7:30 am. Contact: Henrietta Bullinger, hbullinger@gmail.com. Weekends at 7:00 am. Contact: Chris Oglesby, caoglesby@hotmail.com Tennis with Coach Sagi - Nichada tennis courts Contact: Sagi Luft, 092-271-2110, sagiluft@hotmail.com
Tutorials World English - Oral English & composition instruction, 30 yrs exp. Deborah Funthorn, BA, MFA, TESL, 083-055-9785, debhata@yahoo.com Piano Lessons - Exp. professional from Westover School in Connecticut capricio310@gmail.com, 091-878-6283
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December 2018
Nonthaburi & Beyond
Exhibitions and Events Thailand Furniture and Houseware Fair Exibition of furniture direct from factories, including built-in options. Also showcasing a wide range of home appliances at special discounted prices. Date: Dec. 8-16 Time: 11am-9pm Location: BITEC (Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre), Hall EH103-104 Website: www.worldfair.co.th Facebook: world fair expo facebook: world fair expo
Jim Thompson Sale The annual Jim Thompson sale offers the store’s famous silk products, including scarves, handbags, fashion accessories, and fabrics for home furnishings. Organic fruits and vegetables from the Jim Thompson Farm will also be available Date: Dec. 7-9 2018 Time: 10am– 5pm Location: Hall 106, at BITEC (Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre) Website: www.jimthompson.com
Calendar of Events
Baby & Kids Best Buy A shopping fair for families looking for baby products such as strollers, car seats, breast pumps, baby clothes, and organic products. Date: Jan. 31, 2019 - Feb. 3, 2019 Location: IMPACT Muangthong Thani. Website: www.babybbb.com Email: thailandbabykids@gmail.com
December 2018
Dec. 5: Birthday anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Also Thai Father’s Day Dec. 7: ISB Black & Gold Ball, p. 27 Dec. 8: Movie Night at Secret Garden, p. 12 Dec. 12: ES Festival of Lights, p. 27 Dec. 13: Artists Under the Stars, p. 27 Dec. 14: Comedy Den, p. 14 Dec. 14: Grand Opening, Sweet Poppy, p. 19 Dec. 15: Christmas Day Jan. 1: New Year’s Day Jan. 11: NNR Tour, Bangkok Art Biennale, p. 5 Jan. 17: TEDxYouth@ISBangkok, p. 27 Jan. 24: ISB Pathways Career Fair, p. 27 Jan. 29: Chinese Food Fair, p. 27 Feb 1: Next issue of Thani Talk Feb. 9: NNR Social: Running Dinner, p. 4
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Yoga of Awareness Kerstin Wild
Kundalini Yoga is a tool to support your life to live it in a mindful and conscious way by doing Pranayama (breath) exercises, Kundalini Sets and Meditations as taught by Yogi Bhajan. Classes: Tuesdays: 9:30-11:00 am Wednesdays: 7:45-9:15 am Fridays: 7:45-9:15 am Cost: per class THB 450.00 10-times-ticket THB 4,000.00 (valid 6 months)
first class
THB 300.00
Private classes are tailored to meet the needs of the individual and are available on request, THB 1,500.00. Please register with me. Certified KY Teacher Level 1, Level 2 and Radiant Child
Classes will be held in Danicha Condo 39/289 till Baan Shakti is ready by mid/end November
Baan Shakti 163 Nathakorn Park
Buy 1 Suit Get T1h aComplimentary Shirt 25 n i Ta l k
December 2018
ISB International School Bangkok A community that creates, learns and enriches
Upcoming events at ISB A list of upcoming sports, music, cultural and educational events at ISB that are open to the public.
Sign up today for the ISB Pathways Career fair
High School Bands Holiday Concert ISB CC Theater | 03 Dec, 6:30pm Featuring the Wind Ensemble, Intermediate Band and Jazz Band with guest vocalist Todd Amatayakul. Selections to be played include several holiday favorites in addition to contemporary works for the wind band. Enjoy a fun evening of your favorite Carols and other seasonal music to get you in the Holiday Spirit! Free admission and all are invited!
www.isb.ac.th
DECEMBER 2018 – JANUARY 2019
Amorn Group Kids Triathlon International School Bangkok | 05 Dec
The Amorn Group Kids Triathlon will be a great 20th annual ISB multi-sport (swim, bike, run) event on the morning of Wednesday, December 5 – Father’s Day public holiday. Please make sure this event is on your calendar and register here: www.gotorace.com/events/trikids-thailand
Enjoy a delicious 4 course dinner, exceptional entertainment, and an opportunity for parents, staff, and alumni to socialize and raise funds for 2 worthy causes.
Elementary School Festival of Lights Chevron Theater | 12 Dec, 6:30pm
Come join the ES music ensembles for an evening of beautiful holiday music from around the world. We will be celebrating many different cultures and communities through music, drama and creative movement. This performance will be presented by the ES Orff Ensemble, String Ensemble, and Panther Choir. We hope to see you there!
Artists Under the Stars ISB Cafeteria Plaza | 13 Dec, 6:00-8:00pm
Get ready for a cozy evening of awesome performances and a holiday themed event!.
January 2019 TEDxYouth@ISBangkok ISB CC Theater | 17 Jan, 6:00pm - 8:00pm Come and listen to our high schools share their big ideas!
ISB Pathways Career Fair ISB CC Theater | 24 Jan, 10:25-10:55am CC Foyer | 24 Jan, 10:55-11:35am
ISB is hosting a Pathways Career Fair and we are asking current professionals or businesses in Thailand to join a panel discussion and fair for ISB High School students. It is a chance for you to share your experiences and expertise with students who are currently navigating their choices of study and career.
Chinese Food Fair ISB | 29 Jan
Come and enjoy a range of delicious treats.
www.isb.ac.th
ISB International School Bangkok
ISB Black & Gold Ball Renaissance Bangkok Hotel | 07 Dec
Travel
Island Hopping in Thailand Which Island is Right for You?
To say that we live in paradise is an understatement. After all, there aren’t many places in the world where you have a plethora of breathtaking islands within a short plane ride or drive. And by breathtaking, you know what I mean. Warm aquamarine water shimmers, beckoning you to come swim. Jungle hilltops offer million-dollar views. Rainbow fish dance around you as you snorkel in crystal clear water. The list is endless. Movies have been made in our waters and many people put the islands of Thailand on their bucket list of places they must go before they die. Yes, we are fortunate indeed. However, if you’re like me, offer me too many choices and I just can’t make a decision. I literally have to study a menu before we go out to a new restaurant because I know I won’t be able to decide. That being said, I hope to narrow down some of your choices for island hopping through Thailand by giving you three great choices. (Koh is Thai for island). Koh Samui This was the first island we visited in Thailand. Living in Shanghai at the time, we knew we wanted a place with lots of things to do, one that offered a good sense of Thai culture, and one that might not be quite as busy as Phuket. If these are the things you are looking for in a local trip, this is the island for you. While there, we went on a jeep tour, saw temples, a mummified monk (a huge hit with our boys), watched elephant, monkey, and crocodile shows, visited a waterfall, and much more. We were also able to shop to our tourist heart’s content in some large villages and even found a mall. Truly a wellrounded island experience. Where we stayed: Kanda Resort I would recommend this resort. We had a pool villa, made pizza with the head chef, and had some wonderful spa treatments. One thing to consider, Kanda doesn’t offer much in the way of a sandy beach, but it does have a great pool. 28
Koh Lanta
Love, love, love this island! Although this one is the most time consuming to get to (fly to Krabi, drive an hour to the pier, then take a 45 minute speedboat to the island), once you get there you’ll become a believer in love at first sight. While there’s plenty to do on the island: markets, Lanta Animal Welfare, Thai cooking classes, etc., it’s the least touristy and most laid back one we have visited. We took a fantastic boat excursion stopping at some nearby islands. One of our stops: Emerald Cove, was worth the trip in and of itself! Where we stayed: Pimalai Resort Our favorite resort of all time! I can’t say enough good things about it. We stayed in a hillside twobedroom pool villa and were spoiled by a milliondollar view right from our room. Koh Chang
This is an easy trip from Nichada. We drove to Ao Thammachat Pier and caught a car ferry to the island. In all, the drive took about 5 1/2 hours. This island offered more than we expected. One of the largest in the Gulf of Thailand, there are many activities to be found. Waterfall hikes, a treetop adventure park, ATV
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December 2018
Travel
rides, etc. Again, something for all ages. This island felt a bit like a hidden secret since it lacked many of the international tourists you find on other islands. Where we stayed: Seaview Resort and Spa While much of this resort feels a bit dated, we had the opportunity to experience a soft opening of a new private pool villa and it was phenomenal! So great in fact, that we ended up just staying at the resort, kayaking, paddle boarding, enjoying beach time, playing games, and relaxing. Although living in Bangkok opens the door to many wonderful vacation possibilities, take it from me, the Koh’s: Samui, Lanta, and Chang offer something for everyone. You can get a taste of your own little piece of paradise from any of them. So if you’re planning a trip, look no further than island hopping from your own backyard. Whether driving or flying, they’re easy to get to from here and you’ll love them so much you will want to return again and again. Laurie Burin December 2018
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SERVING CHILDREN AGES
Magic Years International School provides a challenging program that balances the body, mind and soul, understanding that they are of equal importance to nurture each individual as a lifelong learner.
IB WORLD SCHOOL SINCE
5
0-11 YEARS
2012
GOLF CART MINUTE DISTANCE FROM NICHADA THANI
FREE PICK-UP FROM NICHADA THANI 0-2156-6222 OFFICE@MAGICYEARS.AC.TH
FACEBOOK/MYISONLINE | INSTAGRAM/MAGICYEARS | TWITTER : @MYISONLINE
Travel Writers & Photographers Wanted
Call Khun Jum to make a booking for your next holiday!
Located in Nichada Secret Garden
Got a flair for writing? Good with a camera? Good at meeting deadlines? Contact Liz at nnrnews@gmail.com December 2018
Community News
Church Hosts Dec. 8 Dinner Show to Raise Funds for Upgrade of School Kitchen Let me tell you about Thoo Mweh Khee Learning Center. It’s not easy to find, up near MaeSot on the border of Thailand and Myanmar. The kids are from the Karen minority group and are essentially stateless. Neither Thailand nor Myanmar want to claim them, but luckily this group of people in need has found a few friendly faces to help out. Michael Andreassen, a Chaengwattana Community Church (CCC) member who also works for a non-profit called iCare Thailand, led a group of volunteers up to MaeSot in Tak province about four years ago. CCC has been providing care to a few other schools and camps in the MaeSot area for over 10 years, so many church members already knew the way up to MaeSot. The church fell in love with the kids and camp at Thoo Mweh Khee. These were kids clearly in need and clearly grateful for any assistance; but more than that, they loved the connection. The following year, the Children’s Church at CCC in Nichada, led by Kathy Mannikko, decided to have a “kids helping kids” project that would have a simple, specific goal. The Children’s Church raised money to repair a roof over a main classroom building, so the kids wouldn’t have ruined notebooks and soggy floors for their classrooms. That year, 2016, church members raised enough additional funds to erect some toilets for the learning center as well as the roof repairs. Last year their project was to rewire the girls’ dormitory and add a second door. The faulty wiring and single door were clearly fire risk factors that spoke to the children. This year the Children’s Church group will focus on renovating a very rustic kitchen. This kitchen serves the 721 kids who come each day to study -- 320 live in dorms on the property with the rest walking many kilometers to learn. These kids are between the ages of 5 & 20 and will graduate and head back to their villages where they will be the most educated people in their villages, oftentimes being the first person in their family to receive formal education. They will become the teachers, the nurses, the leaders. You can have a chance to meet these kids! They will come down for a special field trip from December 7-9 and stay with hosts in Nichada Thani. They will perform a show for the community December 8 beginning at 6pm. They will also perform special music at the church on Sunday, Dec 9. This is their third field trip to Nichada, but the first time we’ve invited the community to see them perform. They are amazing! If you are interested in tickets to A Cross-Cultural 34
Christmas Celebration, dinner and a show, they will be on sale at the Chaengwattana Community Church office Dec 4, 6 & 7 between the hours of 1-4pm. Or you can email: office@cccthailand.org. or text Kathy at 086-413-7561.
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Kathy Mannikko December 2018
Community News
Kitchen Renovation Needed: (Above): The rustic and rudimentary kitchen at the Thoo Mweh Khee school serving ethnic Karen children in Tak province. The Children’s Church group at Chaengwattana Community Church in Nichada is sponsoring a visit and dinner show by visiting Karen children to raise funds to upgrade the kitchen.
Community News
Comedy Den Celebrates First Anniversary As Comedy Den prepares to celebrate its first anniversary show in December, Delfin Soloman is especially appreciative of the audience members who have come out and enjoyed the shows this year. Bringing quality entertainment to the Nichada community is one of Delfin’s goals and a loyal following has emerged to share laughs at Comedy Den. To maintain that sense of community and help grow interest, he regularly posts about upcoming events, advertises in Thani Talk, offers early bird discounts, personalized ticket delivery to your home and monthly drawings for free tickets. Delfin pays special attention to quality performers and has assembled an entertaining crew of local Bangkok comedians who frequently open for Comedy Den shows. “They love performing up here because it’s evident that the audience is there for a laugh,” said the 2005 ISB graduate-turned-entrepreneur.. “There’s a familiarity emerging with the local acts who open the shows.” It’s mutually beneficial. While bringing laughs to audiences in Nichada, the comedians are learning with each performance, he said. It’s easy to recycle material for the transient audience downtown but performing here in front of a loyal following encourages them to improve the quality of their act, he said. In addition to the regular line up of shows planned for 2019, Delfin sees an untapped potential for Nichada residents to enjoy comedy at special performances for social gatherings and private parties and for clean acts to involve families, kids and ISB students. All of these are opportunities to maintain the sense of community here in Nichada and for residents to enjoy the convenience of an evening out enjoying time and sharing a laugh together. Comedy Den returns to the Nichada Club for the first anniversary performance on December 12th with Singaporean comedian Jacky Ng, guaranteed to be a very funny night with special rewards and prizes to further tempt you. Keep the laughs coming Delfin and thanks for bringing Comedy Den to Nichada! Ginny Condra
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Community News
Bumble Bee Free Library Opens at Bigger Venue
Thai and expat neighbors gathered on Nov. 4 for the grand opening of Bumble Bee Free Library’s new home -- the blue house opposite Que Pasa restaurant. The big move was made just 3 days earlier thanks to Asian Tigers, which donated its moving services. At the new venue, there will finally be enough room for BBFL’s 3,000 + English books and 2,500 + Thai books, as well as for its budding international collection. The house is several times bigger than the library’s former home in a little shophouse down the street on Soi Prasert Issram. With more elbow room, the library will be better able to serve children attending its popular Story Time program for toddlers, and its Sunday English classes for Thai neighborhood children and adults. BBFL is planning to introduce additional community activities such as Meet the Author nights, workshops, and book clubs. At the Nov. 4 celebration, reprentatives of major sponsors including NNR; Dee and Andrew Pennels with the high school club at Chaengwattana Community Church; and the Julian and Panida Ting family, were on hand to cut the ribbon. Girl Scouts painted faces, and Boy Scouts Troop 701 entertained kids with a bean bag toss game. For more information about BBFL, please visit the library’s Facebook page: Bumble Bee Free Library. Liz Lu Photos by Piercarlo Abate December 2018
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Wishing Everyone Happiness and Safe Travels During the Holidays!
Dec. 2 - 10: Hanukkah Dec. 6: Feast of St. Nicholas Dec. 8: Bodhi Day Dec. 12: Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Dec. 22: Winter Solstice Dec. 25: Christmas Dec. 26 - Januray 1: Kwanzaa Jan. 1: New Year (Gregorian Calendar)
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Need Good Reads for the Holidays? Index to Major Thani Talk Articles
2012 - 2018
Archive issues can be viewed at:
issuu.com/nnrthanitalk
Cover Stories: Editor’s Picks 2014 April: Meet Our Muslim Neighbors 2014 December: 10th Anniversary of the Southeast Asian Tsunami. 2014 September: 20th Anniversary of Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach (NNR) 2015 December: Religious venues: Meet Our Diverse Community: Worshipping and Living Side by Side 2017 October: In Honor of King Rama IX 2018 April: Growing Trend: Men as Trailing Spouses
Cover Stories: News Round Ups 2015 September: International Clubs in Bangkok 2016 October : Charities and Volunteering 2015 November: Sports Roundup 2016 March: Libraries of Bangkok 2016 April: Massages 2018 March & October: Interest Groups
Cover Stories: Tips for Newcomers
* Note: Tips in archive issues may be out of date. 2012 September: Getting Settled 2013 September: Medical Resources 2017, 2018 September: Mega Edition, Grapevine Tips
Annual Travel Issue 2014 February: Aurora Borealis in Sweden, Bungee jumping in New Zealand, Beaches of Thailand, Disneyland in Hong Kong. 2015 February: Skiing in Canada, Safari in Tanzania, Safari in South Africa. 2017 February: Ballooning in Myanmar; Motorcycle roadtrip in Thailand; Hanoi to Sapa in Vietnam; Exploring Kyoto; Iceland by Mini Van. 2018 February: Nepal, Red Lotus Lake in Udon Thani Thailand, Koh Rong Samleon in Cambodia
Other Travel Articles 2014: Nov. (Yunan, China) 2015: (April) Dubai (May) Guilin, China (Sept) Australia by Camper Van (Oct): Korat Zoo (Nov) December 2018
Cambodia (Dec): Bhutan 2016: (Sept) Taiwan 2017: (March) Lotz, Poland (April) Katmandu, Nepal (May): Myanmar 2018: (Oct) Shanghai (Nov) Trekking in India
Annual Farewell Issue May issues of 2013- 2018 (Where are folks off to next?)
PEOPLE: Profiles 2014 April: Cover story includes mini profile of Shawn Akbar, owner, Cafe Kabul and Shawn’s Carpets 2014 September: Alex Janney, owner of Que Pasa 2014 October: Bill Reinsch, co-founder, Transpo International Ltd./ Asian Tigers. Reinsch Field at ISB is named after him. 2016 March: Liz Lu, founder, Bumble Bee Free Library; Editor, Thani Talk. 2016 April: Rose Marie Wanchupela,owner, Rose Marie Academy 2016 Sept, 2018 May: Mare Harvey, former chairperson and Charity Chair, NNR. 2016 October: Madison Warta, founder, Madison’s Chicken 2016 November: Bruno Marchal, owner, Le Bouchon. 2016 December: Wanda Grove, former co-chair, NNR Charity Committee. 2017 February: Cherry Thamthai, owner, Cherry Sweet Kitchen. 2017 April: Merritt Gurley, co-owner, Thailand Summer Camps. 2017 May: Secillia Schudel, co-founder, White Elephant; former owner, Baan Kimchi. 2017 September: K Veerapong Netiwinyoo , owner, New York Diner. 2017 October: Milkman K. Sa-oat and wife K. Maew 2017 November: Meyung Robson, owner of Xuan Mai 2018 Feb.: Haakon Brekke, ISB grad, KAFK Chair 2018 March: Gunjan Mullick, owner, Mon Voyage 2018 April: Delfin Soloman, owner, Comedy Den 2018 Nov.: Pascale Kervyn, volunteer
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Highlights: NNR Tour
Climbing to the Center of the Universe NNR November Tour Highlights
“Jump, let’s go, please quickly. Everyone on? Un, deux, trois…treize” - with a final head count our fearless tour coordinators, Pascale and Maida, gently confirmed we hadn’t lost any Nichada-ites getting on the boat at the Saen Saeb khlong! On Friday morning, 13 of us joined seasoned commuters moving east to west on a long-tail commuter boat. Boarding at Asoke pier, we sped past the Jim Thompson house, Bobae market and a steady stream of ubiquitous food stalls, not to mention laundry on the line and graffiti coloring the walls. Our destination was the final stop, Pamfa Leelard pier. A short walk from the pier and we began our ascent of Wat Saket. One of the city’s oldest temples, its 80m tall mountain, Phu Khao Thong (Golden Mountain) houses a golden chedi (stupa). The golden mount replicates Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology. We were lulled by the sound of a waterfall with each ascending step. En route we rang large gongs, chimed picturesque temple bells, and found a small cafe, which provides a treetop view and chance to revive from the heat. At the top is an important albeit relatively small temple complex, accompanied by the background sounds of chanting monks. Visitors may offer incense, a lotus flower to the main Buddha statue, or shake a box to receive a fortune stick. Nichada NNR Insiders’ Tour Tip: Do remember to continue to the very top to view the golden chedi protected on four sides by Devatas. Enjoy the sweeping views over the City of Angels, with the stillness and calmness of an orchestra of chiming bells punctuated by gongs. The cool breeze carries prayers, tied to the 42
bells, across all corners of the earth. The stunning views contrast the old city roofs with architecturally interesting skyscrapers. Walking from the temple complex we aimed for our final destination: Ban Bat. This small artisan neighborhood is filled with families specializing in crafting alms bowls for monks. The artisans trace their
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Highlights: NNR Tour history to the time of the Ayutthaya migration to Krung Thep (Bangkok). The loud hammering to coax hard, flat triangular sheets of steel into round bowls starkly contrasted with the peaceful sounds of Wat Saket. Peeking inside, as we walked the back alleys, we realized we had briefly stepped back in time -- where factory floor and home were indistinguishable. Unassuming alms bowls, remarkable in their simplicity and connection with austerity, are linked to the traditional practice of making offerings to monks. Some of the finished pieces are adorned with copper, others have a thin black border with a golden script-like pattern. We each took turns to bang a small thick stick against different finished pieces, each bowls’ hammer pock-marks revealing its handmade authenticity. Serendipitously, we met an orange-robed monk from upcountry who had come that morning to get his own alms bowl. As we left, one recently made large bowl was upside down, being fired on an open gas flame. This proved we had entered into active working quarters, not a tourist trap, black smoke filling the humble front room as it must have since the time of Ayutthaya. Dhooleka Sarhadi Raj Photos by Piercarlo Abate
Nichada NNR Insiders’ Tour Tips for Wat Saket: * The coffee shop walls with temple history is worth visiting, and it is best done on the way up since the descent is by a different route. * The temple hosts an annual 9-day festival during Loy Krathong, the 12th full moon, in November.
Nonthaburi Neigborhood Reach December 2018
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LakeShore North Condo For Rent The Most Beautiful Kitchen‌ We Have Ever Cooked In (come see the rest of the house)
Lakeshore North 16A THB 85,000 per Month 420 sq. meters (4500 sq. feet) 3 Refrigerators / 2 Kitchen Sinks Cook Top Stove and BBQ Grill Custom German Leicht Kitchen Gaggenau Oven, Steam, & Warmer Available January 1, 2019 Call: 0906 5252 85 johnduran.lambert@icloud.com
Restaurant Review
Five Crossing
Upscale Dining Close to Home
There is something of a hidden gem quite close to our Nichada neighborhood. Located on Bond Street, in Muang Thong Thani, is a cozy Italian restaurant called ‘Five Crossing’. Their specialties are wood-fired pizzas and grilled steaks. The prices are comparable to what you would encounter in an upscale restaurant downtown but so is the quality of the food. The pizza menu offers the usual varieties, although noteworthy is that four of the options feature delicious truffle cream. It is about 300 baht for a small pizza (pictured) and 400 baht for a large. There are soups and salads on offer, including their popular (and yummy) truffle mushroom soup. There are typical Italian appetizers available including mussels, garlic bread and calamari. The selection of pastas include gnocchi, spaghetti and tagliatelle. Their grill menu offers some surprises. Grilled Maine Lobster (priced by weight), grilled lamb chops, foie gras and pork chops. As for steaks there is a fillet steak from Australia, filet mignon from Argentina, as well as a selection of wagyu ribeye. Again, the prices are high, but so is the quality. There is a selection of wine available, served to you in a decanter. The menu is on an iPad. The décor is slightly eccentric rustic Italian, I suppose. It reminds me of something you would find in California. I was there twice and there was good live music (in English) December 2018
both times. Another thing I like is the commitment to fresh ingredients. This means not everything on the menu is always available. I went a while ago on a busy weekend and the service was excellent. I went recently on a quiet Wednesday, to write this review, and the service was a bit bumpy. It was almost comically hard to communicate in English even with the usual menupointing and smiles. I hope it was just an off-day, as I really want to love this restaurant. The food is unquestionably great, and it is about 15 minutes from Nichada even with the traffic quagmire that is Chaeng Wattana. https://www.facebook.com/fivecrossing/
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John Marinos 49
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Interested? Contact Ginny: nnradverts@gmail.com Delivery Restaurant
Phone
Local Business
Phone
Baan Kimchi Korean BBQ/Thai Cuisine
02-952-0031
Bamboo Spa
02-583-9871
Burger King/Pizza Company
1112
Bank Krungsri
02-582-2669
Cafe Kabul (Indian & Afgan)
02-960-3368
BeWitch Salon
087-099-4569
Cherry’s Cakes
081-446-2646
Blue Sky Cafe
081-811-8455
KFC & Pizza Hut
1150
Clark Hatch Fitness Center
02-960-4326/27
Le Bouchon Food Delivery
02-038-3020
Foot Heaven
061-541-6353
The London Pie Shop
02-381-5818
4 Legs Pet Shop Grooming
084-424-6545
Hair by Jib
085-115-3093
McDonald’s
1711
Happy Teeth Dental Clinic
02-960-3988
Mr. Enzo’s
02-960-0412
Great Massage
02-960-3691
New York Diner
081-624-2099
ISB
02-963-5800
Pinocchio’s
02-573-5646
Le Studio Hair
084-022-9928
Que Pasa
02-960-3821
Nichada Customer Relations
02-960-4300
Pandit Carpets
081-828-2562
Salad Factory
02-001-5659
Panipa
02-960-3934
Scoozi
02-715-8555
Rex Pharmaplus
081-834-1306
Subway
02-960-3232
Rose Marie Academy
02-960-3663
Sudhathai
02-583-2694
Shawn Carpets
090-564-8927
Slider Shack
086-773-4140
Starbucks
02-967-9686
Villa Market
02-960-3585
Vapor Restaurant
02-832-0055
Wash-N-Dry
085-945-4132
Xuan Mai Restaurant
087-077-0605
December 2018
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