October 2019
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 News: Running Dinner & Tour Pages 4-7
Cover Story: Interest Groups Connect Us Pages 10-19
Profile: Joanna Brittingham, Owner of Das Powerhaus Pages 34-35
Feature: National Museum Volunteers’ 50th Pages 46-47 Thani Talk is generously sponsored by: September 2019
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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 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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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
Sally Elliott
NNRThaiChair@gmail.com
Vice Chairperson
Liz Garrigan
lizgarrigan@gmail.com
Treasurer
Francesca Whitehead
nnrthaitreasurer@gmail.com
Activity/Tour Coordinators
Pascale Kervyn Maida Muslic-Kovar
nnrtour@gmail.com
NNR Socials
Chantal Bremner
nnrsocial@gmail.com
Charity & Volunteer Coordinator
Jenna Deacon-Potter
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), Graphics Consultant (Bill Fear, Rose Marie Academy), Restaurant Reviewers (John Marinos, Vara Sumetanon), Grapevine Tips Coordinator (Position Open), Distribution Coordinator ( Birgit Sund). 2 October 2019 T h a n i Ta l k
Letter from NNR’s Chairperson
New NNR Chairperson Takes the Helm As you can see, we have had a little shuffle on the NNR Board; Liz Garrigan and I have switched places! A post-graduate degree on the horizon for Liz is crunching her time, so she will continue to serve as Vice Chair, and I will take over as Chair. We both have a huge heart for helping those in need, and our focus will continue to point the NNR, and our community at large, in the direction of supporting the disadvantaged in our surrounding local community. And, to that end, our largest fundraiser is coming up! You will see promotions for the NNR Bazaar on November 9th—so save the date! If you haven't experienced this before, you are in for a treat. A true community event and wonderful Christmas shopping galore. This year the Bazaar is on a Saturday, so all the family can join too. In fact, the Bazaar is a perfect microcosm of the goals of the NNR—to foster connections within our community, and to raise money to make a difference for our neighbors in need. I look forward to see what the coming year brings! Sally Elliott, New NNR Chairperson
Inside This Issue NNR Social
Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach
A volunteer group serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994
Oct. 13 King Bhumibol Adulyadej Memorial Day Oct. 14 Memorial Day Observed Calendar of Events
Letter from NNR’s Chairperson NNR Social: NNR Tour: NNR Bazaar: Save the Date NNR Distribution Volunteers Cover Story: Groups That Connect Us Community Fitness & Activities Nonthaburi & Beyond Community News PEOPLE: Joanna Brittingham Travel: Day Trips: NaSatta Travel: Da Nang, Vietnam Feature: NMV’s 50th Restaurant Review
3 4 5 6 7 10 22 23 28 34 41 42 46 49
Oct. 4- 5: Bangkok Int’l Choir Festival, p.27 Oct. 5: NNR Social, Running Dinner, p. 4 Oct. 9: AWC Bollywood Fundraiser, p. 23 Oct. 11: NNR Tour: Tattoos, Orchids, OTOP, p. 5 Oct. 11: Comedy Den (Proceeds for NNR), p. 44 Oct. 13: King Rama 9 Memorial Day Oct. 20: NMV Guiding Workshop, p. 46 Oct. 31: Halloween Haunted House, p. 9 ** Full calendar listing on p. 23 **
Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach October 2019
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Cover photo by Anna Jison Wat Salak Nonthaburi, Thailand 3
NNR Social:
NNR Running Dinner Saturday, October 5, 2019 Looking for an easy fun night out? Interested in connecting with your neighbors? Want to enjoy a three course meal in a fun way? The Running Dinner is for you! The Running Dinner kicks off at 7 pm. Messages will be sent to participants telling them where they will begin their evening. 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. For more information or to sign up for the Running Dinner, please email: runningdinner5@gmail.com. 4
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October 2019
NNR Tour:
Friday October 11 : NNR Tour Back by Popular Demand!
Hidden Treasures of Nonthaburi What do spiritual tattoos, scented soaps and orchids have in common? You can experience them all on the October NNR excursion, and they are all in Nonthaburi! Join us for a day trip to the famous temple, Wat Bang Phra, where people receive tattoos from revered monks. Tattooing yantras on the skin has been part of the Khmer and Thai culture for over 2,000 years. Wat Bang Phra is a center for mystical tattoos and is also a working, historic Buddhist temple. We will then stop at an OTOP (One Tambon One Product) factory and showroom which specializes in lovely scented soaps, essential oils and lotions made from natural coconuts. Our last stop will be an orchid farm where you can see an amazing variety of gorgeous flowers (and take a few home). There will be time to enjoy a (self-pay) coffee and light lunch together. Pascale Kervyn and Maida Muslic-Kovar, NNR Tour Coordinators
When: Friday, October 11 Time: 7:45 am to 2 pm Where: Meet in front of ISB’s Chevron Theatre Cost: 400 baht per person To sign up: Please email nnrtour@gmail.com Hurry. space is limited to 11 participants!
Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach October 2019
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NNR Bazaar: Save the Date
Save the Date!
SATUR Novem DAY ber 9t h
THE NNR BAZAAR 2019!!
WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE AND DO SOME FABULOUS CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY SHOPPING? OUR ANNUAL FUNDRAISER IS COMING!! WHERE: NICHADA THANI TIME: 9 AM – 3 PM WHAT: JEWELRY, FURNISHINGS, SPA PRODUCTS, BAGS, PHOTOGRAPHIC PRINTS, HANDICRAFTS, TOYS, BOOKS, CLOTHES, AND MUCH MORE!
NNR supports 10 local charities which are close to our hearts and rely on donations…this is where YOU come in! Come shop for a great cause! The NNR Bazaar raises funds to support orphans, children rescued from human trafficking, the destitute, disabled, street women and their children, and abandoned kids, amongst others. We also support a wonderful free neighborhood library providing access to books for all. Many of these charities focus on helping the less fortunate to acquire schoolng, life skills and job skills. SUPPORTING OUR CHARITY FUNDRAISER MEANS THAT YOU ARE NOW A PART OF THESE WONDERFUL ENTERPRISES! COME ALONG AND HAVE A LOVELY TIME, WHILST BEING PART OF SOMETHING LARGER AND MEANINGFUL
SEE YOU ON NOVEMBER 9TH!!! 6
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October 2019
NNR Distribution Volunteers
Need Your Thani Talk Magazine? For delivery information, please contact Birgit Sund at: nnrttdist@gmail.com.
Distributors Needed for Danicha Gardens and Parkview.
A Big Thank You to Our Distribution Team! Regent (Jennifer Zwierzynski) Premier Place I (Marion Den Hartog) Premier Place II (Megan Nistler) Premier Place III (Miriam Sheldon) Raintree (Rosemary Laila Jorgensen, main distributor) Downtown Distributors (Lynn Fonseca, Sandra Wilson) Palmtree (Kathy Mannikko) Prestige (Heather Clary) Forestville A+B (Kelly Kabat, main distributor) Treetop (Natalie Sanders) Natakorn Park (Tina Chada) Sunshine (Ginny Condra) Veranda (Birgit Sund, Distibution Coordinator) Gharan (Sibyl Trosse) Nichada Park (Natalie Sanders) Maison (Natalie Lollback) Villa (Napisa Pant) Estate (Eriko Sugawara) Raveevan (Birgit Sund) Casa (Chantal Bremner) Baan Samarnmit (Eriko Sugawara) Vongsdhavi Garden (Sassy C & Gordon Gorman) Lakefront (Brigitte Hansen, main distributor) The Niche (Piper Day)
Promsook (Birgit Sund) Lake Home (Lisa Burlas) Prime Place (Brigitte Hansen) Pineview (Janelle Thornton) Lakeshore West (Birgit Sund) Lakeview Residence (Lisa Burlas) Garden Condo (Birgitte Hansen) Lakeside Residence (Yukiko Saito) House Niche (Birgit Sund) Nichakorn Place (Meyung Robson) Baan Rimlake (Lisa Burlas) Clover (Birgit Sund) Tropical Residence/Condo (Kathleen Muhlhauser) Lakeshore North (Birgit Sund) Lakepoint (Daniela Botelho) Nichakorn Premier (Patsy Remijan) N1/N2 (Birgit Sund) Mansions in the Park (Liz Lu) Green Park (Birgitte Hansen) Terrace Condo/ Villa (Stephanie Romasanta) The Miracle/ I-Park (Patsy Remijan) Samakee Place (Melody Herber) Lakeview Suites (Birgit Sund)
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Volunteers Needed for Distribution Team Opportunity for Teens to Earn Service Hours
Join the Thani Talk distribution team! Birgit Sund, the magazine’s Distribution Director, is looking for adults and teenagers to staff the distribution team. Volunteers make it possible for the monthly magazine to be delivered free to nearly 1,400 households in and outside Nichada. Birgit welcomes high school teenagers in search of volunteer work. Interested? Please contact Birgit at: nnrttdist@gmail.com.
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Cover Story: Groups That Connect Us
Interest Groups Sports, Hobbies, Clubs & More One thing about our community is that folks are super active, participating in a wide range of activities to fit every interest. There’s almost no need to Google the Meet-Up groups in Bangkok, because right here in our own Nonthaburi neighborhood we have plenty of activity groups to keep you busy. Setting aside clubs and sports leagues for children, this month’s Thani Talk offers a quick overview of interest and support groups for adults. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we start off with local breast cancer support groups that offer emotional support in Thai and English. Next comes a relatively new group, Nonthaburi Animal Welfare Alliance, that extends a helping hand to
four-legged neighbors. Sports groups ranging from bikers runners, swimmers to dancers are also introduced. On pages 17-18, we also share updated information about religious groups and venues in our community. Although Thailand is a majority Buddhist country, the Thai neighborhood outside Nichada is Muslim and is served by two mosques. The international community inside the Bubble have worshippers of every faith, so we once again share a list of groups and venues for religious worship. I hope that the groups and venues listed provide a good starting point for everyone, especially newcomers, to better connect with neighbors. Liz Lu, Editor
Breast Cancer Support Groups
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Beyond Boobs: We are a diverse group of women who meet twice a month for coffee. We are at different stages of our breast cancer journeys, but through friendship and understanding we support each other through the various challenges that we are confronted with after a breast cancer diagnosis. Please contact us for a chat or to find out more details about where and when we meet. www.facebook.com/beyondboobsbangkok beyondboobsbangkok@gmail.com Jane Crowder 10
The Bangkok Breast Cancer Support Group (BBC) began nearly twenty years ago to help breast cancer patients with accurate and relevant information as well as offering emotional support. The group consists of volunteers including breast cancer survivors. Part of the BBC is also made up of an active fundraising group, the ‘Pink Ladies.’ The Thai speaking group of volunteers and survivors Friend to Friend offers emotional support, free bras, bespoke prostheses and wigs. Both groups are based at the Queen Sirikit Centre for Breast Cancer (QSCBC) which provides the most modern facilities for underprivileged women and organizes breast and cervical screening in the slum communities. The QSCBC Foundation which raises funds for the QSCBC projects. Helped by the Pink Ladies group, the Foundation is completing the Pink Park hospice and cancer rehabilitation home, which will serve the poorest in society. For more information, please contact: jane.crowder66@gmail.com lemieuxray@ gmail.com duen_w@hotmail.com K. Fa (Thai speaker) at 087-023-3465 Manjit Walia - Pink Ladies Fundraising Group manjit.w@brickhousehostel.com
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Khunying Finola Chatamra October 2019
Cover Story:
Nonthaburi Animal Welfare Alliance (NAWA) Animals in Need of Your Help
If you live in Nichada and want to create a safer environment for soi dogs and community members, the Nonthaburi Animal Welfare Alliance (NAWA) could use your help. What is NAWA? Nonthaburi Animal Welfare Alliance (NAWA) is a community-supported volunteer organization working to sterilize, provide medical care, and home street animals in and around Nichada Thani. Founded in July 2018, NAWA has had a modest but meaningful first year; the fledgling group handled 71 sterilizations of street animals, and completed 10 adoptions, many vaccinations, and treatment for a number of animals with non-routine medical conditions. The group has also formed a successful community dog-walking program of local volunteers for a group of dogs living inside a Nichada run. To support NAWA or volunteer, email Liz Garrigan at lizgarrigan@gmail.com. Liz Garrigan NAWA supporters include Boy Scout Robert Yepes (top rt) who worked with his troop to build dog shelters; and Girl Scouts (bottom rt) who raised and donated money to NAWA.
Pathum Thani Jakayans
For more information or to join, please visit the Facebook page for Pathum Thani Jakayans and sign up. October 2019
“Local” bike rides are held several days a week in the Pathum Thani area on the west side of the Chao Phraya River. Jakayan means “bicycle” in Thai. Most riders ride mountain bikes; however, there are a couple of cross-bike riders who join. We ride our bikes from Nichada Thani to the Pakkred Pier (7 km) and take the ferry across the river (it’s the tradition: 5 baht per rider, and we take turns paying). Then we cycle out into the countryside, often visiting different wats (temples) along the way. As long as it is dry, we ride quite a bit of offroad/rice field trails but when it is rainy, we are confined to the paved/concreted roads. All rides leave from the Sichaithong (back) gate of Nichada. Weekend rides leave at 7 am and weekday rides at 7:30 am.
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Chris Oglesby 11
Cover Story
Volleyball Spikers For all you volleyball enthusiasts, there is an adult volleyball group that plays each Monday and Thursday from 7-9 pm in Rajendra Hall (the large high school gym). Just before the start of each month, we post reminders on the Expats of Nichada Facebook page to include any schedule changes due to ISB events and holidays. Typically, we have around 8-12 players at each session, and it has been amazing to watch the dramatic improvement of players over this past year. It’s a great way to make friends and get exercise, and there have only been a few minor injuries and some aching joints (don’t worry, we haven’t moved into full contact volleyball yet). So please feel free to come check it out! Contact Quintan at quintanwik@gmail.com. Quintan Wiktorowicz
Tennis Lovers In Nichada Thani, we have several tennis groups with different levels of playing. Some groups play on the Nichada tennis courts, others at First Serve (just outside the Sichaithong gate) and still others at ISB. The groups (8 players each) are formed already, but they are always in need of substitutes. Starting as a substitute is the way to get into a group. Tuesday: Intermediate level, from 8 - 10 am. Contact person: Mary Ann Banker: 095-846-1801. Nichada courts or at First Serve. Thursday: Intermediate level, from 7:30 - 9 am. Contact person: Yukiko Saito: 092-280-1292. Nichada courts. Friday: Intermediate/Advanced from 8 - 10 am. Contact person: Hilde Tellmann: 087-594-9047. Nichada courts. Monday: Intermediate/Advanced from 4 - 6 pm. Contact person: Mariela: 097-067-1387 and Marion: 087-065-1435. ISB uncovered courts. We also have a “LINE” group, of mostly men. It is a fun group of players and the level varies from intermediate to advanced. Mostly they play at ISB during the week after 6 pm and during the weekend sometimes at 6 am or late afternoon. If there’s any other information you may need, please give me a call (087-065-1435). It would be great to welcome new players to our tennis community. It is a lot of fun, sometimes hard work, and it’s a great way to make new friends while playing your favorite sport! Marion den Hartog 12
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October 2019
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Masters Swimming
I am not absolutely sure when Masters Swimming began, but it was probably around 2006. Previously the sessions were coached by Andy Myers. After he left ISB, our group became self coaching. The group meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:20 am at the Nichada pool. The workouts are very flexible. Usually someone will prepare an approximate 2,000-meter swim plan, but everyone just swims what they are able. There is no cost to participate. The only cost is equipment. We often use swim workout fins and
pool buoys, so most members purchase these. I am guessing there are about 10 people who show up each day. We have a Facebook page that people can join - https:// www.facebook.com/groups/513346442035109/ The best part of Masters Swimming is we have coffee, etc. at Starbucks after our workout. Great time to catch up. For more information, please contact Kerstin Wild at kerstin.bangkok@gmail.com.
Kevin Sypolt
Ultimate Frisbee courts. Games take place from 4:30 pm to 6 pm, weather permitting. If you are interested in meeting with active members of the Nichada community for a family friendly game of disc tossing, just show up with a pair of running shoes and a good attitude on Sundays at 4:30 pm. Players use a Line app group for communications. For info: Contact Joey Poret at joeyporet@outlook.com
Joey Poret
The ISB Ultimate Disc Group (or Frisbee to the uninitiated) is an eclectic gathering of amateur athletes who meet on Sundays at ISB to have fun and get a little exercise. The members range from ages 10 to 65 and all ranges of athletic ability are welcome. We typically have between 10 and 16 members on any given Sunday, and we play at the field between the high school cafeteria and the old tennis October 2019
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Zumba in the Mornings Zumba is for everybody! No experience necessary. We mix low intensity and high intensity moves set to Latin and other world rhythms for a fun fitness dance party. A total workout combining all elements of fitness—cardio, muscle building, balance and flexibility. You control the intensity. Zumba classes in Nichada were started by Mary Turner in 2010. We are so grateful for the community she created here and hope she is proud of how Zumba is still going strong with many wonderful instructors and students participating over the last 9 years. All classes are held in the Cheangwattana Community Church on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 7:45 am In lieu of class fees we accept donations. The proceeds of which are donated to charities in Thailand. For more information please join our Facebook page Zumba Nichada Thani. Come join us! Music, dancing and working out with friends is a great way to start the day! Heather Clary
Bollywood Belles of Bangkok
"We dance with our heart and our feet follow…" Bollywood Dance is so colorful, expressive, exotic and captivating that it has long burst the borders of its homeland, India. This cannot be more evident than in the wonderful group of dancing ladies, the Bollywood Belles of Bangkok. This group is the epitome of the magical microcosm that is Nichada Thani. Think of any country and we have (or have had) dancers from there! And the unifying factor? A passion for dance and a mutual respect for each other’s cultural backgrounds. Bollywood Dance is inherently a GROUP dance, and when the group members have a special bond between them, it shows. 14
I started the Belles when I arrived in Nichada in Sept 2011, having lived in India where I trained and became a Bollywood dancer and performer. It became such a passion, and I felt that I had to share it. This group is very dynamic, as every year the Nichada expat way of life brings with it new ladies who join us in dance, while some others move onto other places. Dance classes are always so fun and exciting, we learn intricate dance sequences; it's really focused on the dance aspect. The laughs, the workout, the great music, and the cameraderie—that's just the bonus. For the "divas" among us (myself included!) there are fabulous performance opportunities at community, school and charity events. So at the next community event, look out for the most spectacular looking group of ladies with the most colorful and lovely costumes who give an unforgettable show-stopping performance—the Bollywood Belles of Bangkok! Come and join us! Classes meet on Wednesdays 5-6 pm OR Thursdays 11-12 am @ Nichada Studio above Starbucks. For further information, contact Irit 0860044840, iritmike@gmail.com
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Irit Namatinia October 2019
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Nichada Pub Quiz
The Nichada Pub Quiz kicked off its tenth year in August. Our current home is ‘Myth My Tree Society Bar and Bistro’, which could be a quiz question in itself! Most of us will still know the place as ‘Joe Café’ just out the Sichaithong gate of Nichada on the way to Central. The quizzes are set and run by the participating individuals and teams who sign up for a convenient week within our schedule. The quizzes generally follow a regular Pub Quiz format i.e. 6/7 rounds of 10 questions on subjects ranging from General Knowledge, Sports, History, Movies, Music etc although innovation is encouraged as is Internationalism! The emphasis is very much on a fun evening as opposed to an intellectually challenging ordeal! Teams are made up of four people but come along even if you don’t have a full team as there are always vacant spots.
The Bar offers cheap, cold beer and drinks, tasty food and snacks and a welcoming atmosphere. The quizzes are normally held on Thursday evenings kicking off at 8pm and finishing by 10:30 pm latest. We send out email reminders and also post on The Expats of Nichada Facebook page. Come along and be befuddled, baffled and bamboozled! If you would like any further information please contact Andrew McRobbie amcrobbie63@gmail.com Andrew McRobbie
Upcoming quiz nights: October: 3, 17, 31 November: 14, 28 December: 12
Encouraging Women Bible Study The Women's Ministry of Chaengwattana Community Church (CCC) is know as Encouraging Women or EW. It is a group of international and inter-denominational women coming together to study the Bible, glorify God, and build community. It is a supportive and encouraging environment where all women are welcome, whether attending Bible study for the first time or looking to deepen their knowledge and understanding. Our mission is to develop and disciple women into spiritual leaders who can make a positive impact serving in the Nichada community and local area. Encouraging Women meets on Wednesday mornings from 10 - 11:30 am at CCC for a time of Bible study and fellowship. Childcare is available. One of the small bible study groups on Wednesday mornings is specific to women learning English. We October 2019
also offer an evening group, meeting every other Monday from 6:30 - 8:30 pm. We would love for you to join us! If you have any questions, please contact cccewomen@gmail.com.
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Moms RUN This Town/ She Runs This Town
Moms RUN This Town/She Runs This Town” or MRTT/SRTT, is a FREE international running/ walking group for women that was started in the USA. We now have over 800 chapters globally with over 22,000 members connected through social media. Dianna Gibson started the Bangkok/Nichada MRTT/SRTT chapter just one month after moving here in August 2016. We now have 175+ members in the Nichada Thani & downtown Bangkok area. The women in this group come from all different stages of running or walking…beginner, prior runner
& getting back into it, marathoners, & walkers. To be a member, you just have to be a woman with a positive attitude & be willing to encourage other women to do things they’ve never dreamed they could do. If this sounds like a group you’d like to join, look for us on Facebook at Bangok/Nichada Moms RUN This Town-She RUNS This Town, https://www. facebook.com/groups/BangkokMRTT/ . Dianna Gibson
Book Club at Bumble Bee Free Library There are lots of local book clubs in the community. Most meet in member homes. Asking around and checking with friends is one way to find a club. For newcomers still in search of a neighborhood book club, please note that Bumble Bee Free Library just outside Nichada will be launching a book club program soon. Meetings will be held in the library’s upstairs “living room” space, and sign-ups each month will be open to all, on a first-come, first-served basis. First book on the reading list will be the English translation of a Thai classic, “Letters from Thailand.” If interested in being on the mailing list, please contact: bumblebeefreelibrary@gmail.com. Liz Lu 16
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October 2019
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Religious Groups & Venues
Mosque Soi Prasert Issaram Mosque 8 Moo 3 Soi Prasert Issaram, Pakkred, Nonthaburi The Soi Prasert Issaram Mosque is one of two Sunni mosques in our neighborhood. It serves more than 500 Muslim families representing more than 3,500 people. Friday prayers attract local Thai neighbors as well as immigrants and expats from Pakistan, India and Africa.
Catholic Mass in Nonthaburi Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church 69/13 Moo 1, Tiwanon- Pakkred Rd, 56. Pakkred. English Mass: Sundays at 4 pm. Our Lady of Mercy also offers a Faith Formation Program with Sacramental Preparation for First Communion and Confirmation. Contact: ourladyofmercyparish@gmail.com Facebook Page: ourladyofmercyeng St. John Bangkok Website: www.saintjohnbkk.com
Buddhist Temple Wat Bua Khwan 1 Moo 9 Ngamwongwan Road, Nonthaburi 02-952-8062; Watbuakhwan.com There are more than 40,000 temples in Thailand, so nearly every neighborhood is dotted with active temples. One of the local temples that’s only a 15-minute drive from Nichada is the Wat Bua Khwan temple. which offers merit-making, prayer, blessings and funeral services.
Catholic Church in downtown Bangkok c/o Salesian Sister Foundation Mass in Italian, Spanish, and Thai available 124 Saladaeng Road, Bangkok Phone: 02-233-3430; 02-632-2636 Pastor Fr. Carlo Velardo, SDB Daily Mass in Thai at 7 am, Sunday Mass in Italian at 10:30 am, Saturday Mass in Spanish, at 5 pm. Contact: carlo.velardo@gmail.com
October 2019
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Synagogue Beth Elisheva Synagogue, Mikveh & Jewish Center. 121 Soi Sai Nam Thip 2, Sukhumvit Road, Soi 22, Bangkok Tel: 02-663-0244; Fax: 663-0245 Thailand Progressive Jewish Community Contact: Alec Goldman Telephone: 081-459-8049 Website: www.tpjc.org Activities: Monthly Shabbat dinner and service, High Holiday celebrations, Community Passover Seder, and other Jewish holidays.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 50/33 Moo 4 Chaengwattana Road Pakkred, Nonthaburi Sunday Worship Service - 10:30 am (in English). English worship service may change starting time beginning in January 2020, depending on rotations with the church’s two Thai congregations. Youth Group - Wednesdays, 6:30 pm (Youth ages 12-18 welcomed) Contact: Bishop Josiah Pierce (Tel: 091-803-4904) 18
International Church of Bangkok Sunday Morning Service (Traditional): 10:00-11:00 am at Bangkok Christian College near Surasak BTS. Children’s Sunday School during morning worship. Sunday Evening Service (Contemporary): 6:30-7:30 pm at Bangkok Christian Guest House, Sala Daeng BTS/Silom MRT. Contact: http://www.icbangkok.org/
Unitarian Universalists An informal Unitarian-Universalist group gathers on Sundays in homes around Nichada. Members take turns organizing conversations, activities and outings grounded in the seven principles of the UnitarianUniversalist Association. We welcome neighbors of any faith background to join our little group of UUs. Learn more about Unitarian-Universalism at www.uua. org and reach out if you’d like to join us! Contact: Jen Whitman (nichadaunitarians@gmail.com) Website: www.uua.org
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Chaengwattana Community Church Sunday Service - 9:30 am (Nursery and Sunday School provided) Encouraging Women Bible Study - Wednesday mornings at 10 am Thai Bible Study - Thursdays, 7pm ESL Classes - Tuesday evenings, 7-9 pm Twice monthly visits to Immigration Detention Center Contact: Office Tel: 02-911-6700. Website: www.cccthailand.org
Sri Maha Mariamman temple 2 Pan Rd, Khwaeng Silom Khet Bang Rak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10500 Dev Mandir Hindu Temple 136/1-2 Siripong Road, Sao Chingcha, Bangkok 10200 Vishnu Temple Khet Sathon Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10120 M O ac yt o2b0e1r 9 2 0 1 9
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: Atchara Walton Tel: 02-530-7417. Email: info@bahai.org.th Additional activities: Devotional gatherings, children’s moral education classes, study circles.
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Community Fitness & Activities Yoga & Fitness Classes Nichada Neighborhood Kundalini Yoga - Baan Shakti Alignment Based Yoga with Napisa Community Fitness & Activities Listings Kerstin Wild, 086-372-9750 Napisa Pant, 086-975-7187
Ashtanga Yoga with PanZen PanZen, 097-227-6999 panzenyoga@hotmail.com http://panzenyoga.wix.com/panzen
napisapant.yoga@gmail.com FB: yogawithnapisa
Ashtanga & Yin 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
Nice to See U Yoga - For kids & family Kay-Rosukon, Certified Kids Yoga Instructor www.budharasyoga.com, 087-929-9641
Monday Kundalini Yoga 7:45-9:15 Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:20 Napisa Restorative 8:45-10:15 Mixed level Meditation Monday with Marie 8:00-9:30 Kerstin Yoga for Kids Kids 3:00-3:45 pm Tweens 4:15-5:00 pm
Tuesday Hatha Yoga w/Katja 7:45-8:30 (Baan Shakti) Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:20 Gong Bath & Meditation 9:30-10:15 Underdog Wellness 9:30 Booty Barre 10:30 Yoga Ashtanga Yoga PanZen 3:45-4:45
Weekly Schedule Wednesday Kundalini Yoga 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 Napisa Restorative 3:45-4:45
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 Charity Vinyasa Flow Kelly Poret - yogaporet@yahoo.com
Thursday
Friday
Hatha Yoga w/Katja Kundalini Yoga 7:45-8:30 (Baan Shakti) 7:45-9:15 Iyengar Yoga Napisa Alignment Flow 7:50-9:15 7:45-9:00 Beg-Level 1 Underdog Wellness Iyengar Yoga 9:30 Mat Pilate 7:50-9:20 Gong Bath & Meditation 11:00-11:45 **Saturday** Ashtanga Yoga PanZen Charity Vinyasa Flow 3:45-4:45 8:30-9:30 Das Powerhaus Napisa Teen Yoga 5:00-6:00 pm
Meditation 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
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
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. Weekend rides - Sat & Sun at 7:00 am - Contact: Chris Oglesby, caoglesby@hotmail.com Tennis with Coach Sagi - Nichada tennis courts; Contact: Sagi Luft, 092-271-2110 or sagiluft@hotmail.com Bollywood Dance Colorful, expressive, exciting & sexy! Morning Class: Friday 11:00am-12:00pm Afternoon Class: Wednesday 5:00-6:00pm Contact Irit: 086-004-4840 or iritmike@gmail.com
Dance
Zumba - Chaengwattana Community Church Mon, Wed & Friday FB: Zumba Nichada Thani - Class fee donated to charity!
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SpiritDance Learn to move your feet & body to a variety of fun styles of dance and music! Morning Class: Wednesday 11:00am-12:00pm Afternoon Class: Tuesday 5:00-6:00pm Contact Irit: 086-004-4840 or iritmike@gmail.com
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Nonthaburi & Beyond
Exhibitions and Events Event: “Shipwrecked!” by Bangkok Community Theatre. Recommended for adults & kids age 6+. Date: Oct. 4 -5. Location: Creative Industries, M Theatre, New Petchburi Rd. Bangkok Tickets: 800 baht, at bangkokcommunitytheatre.com
Calendar of Events
Event: Pet competition and exhibition; Shop pet gear Date: Oct. 3-6 Location: Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani Tickets: 20 baht Info: www.pet-variety.com
October 2019
Oct. 3-6: Pet Exhibition, p. 23 Oct. 4-5: Bangkok Int’l Choir Festival, p. 27 Oct. 4-5: Shipwrecked, BCT, p. 23 Oct. 5: NNR Social - Running Dinner, p. 4 Oct. 9: AWC Bollywood in Bangkok, p. 23 Oct. 11: NNR Tour, p. 5 Oct. 11: Comedy Den (Proceeds benefit NNR charities), p. 44 Oct. 13: King Rama 9 Memorial Day Oct. 14: King Rama 9 Day Observed Oct. 20: NMV Guiding Workshop, p. 46 Oct. 31: Halloween Haunted House at Secret Garden, p. 9 Nov. 9: NNR Charity Bazaar, p. 6
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ISB International School Bangkok
Latest Events at ISB
Arts, sports, educational and cultural events open to the public.
Join these exclusive events with Jill Enfield: Wednesday, October 2nd Exhibition Opening 6.30pm Chevron Theater Free Entrance
Saturday, October 5th Wet Plate Collodion Process Workshop 9am - 5pm Baht 5000 - Limited to 10 people (materials + lunch included) RSVP: events@isb.ac.th
Monday, October 7th Talk by the Artist 10:30am Free Entrance MPB #1 Free Entrance
Jill Enfield is a fine art photographer, author and educator who has accomplished international acclaim, in all three of these capacities, and is a leading authority in Alternative Photographic Processes.
Bangkok International Choir Fesitval (BICF) Chevron Theater | 4-5 Oct | 2:00pm
Some of the most talented student performers from around the region perform in the choir festival gala concert.
www.isb.ac.th
OCTOBER – NOVEMBER 2019
Panthers FC Soccer League Championship Week ISB Soccer fields | 12 Oct | 8:00am - 1:00pm
Our Panthers FC Soccer League has come to the Championship weekend. Please come and cheer up our kids at the fields from 8.30am to 12.15 on Saturday, 12 October 2019.
ISB International School Bangkok
NOVEMBER 2019
Swimfest ISB Swiming Pool | 9-10 Nov
ISB swim team would like to take this opportunity to invite you all back to ISB’s largest swim meet of the year.
Spirit Night Main Field | 23 Nov
The culmination of Spirit Week at ISB with a host of sports on the go, tons of vendors and large crowds. Spirit Night has an awesome atmosphere and is a great night out for families!
Follow us to find out more about ISB events
www.isb.ac.th
Community News
Halloween in Thailand Halloween is celebrated on October 31. In our community, trick-or-treating is not limited to just the little ones. Pre-teens and high school teens all get dressed up and join the trick-or-treating festivities. Chaperoned by parents, youngsters usually start trick-or-treating at around 5:30 pm. Older kids and teens tend to start about 7 pm, and some are still at it until well past 10 pm. On Halloween night, keep in mind the hot weather when selecting a costume. For safety, bring flashlight or take other measures to stay visible. Bring water bottles to keep kids hydrated. Beware of golf-carts on the main roads. At the Secret Garden on Oct. 31, Nichada is offering Halloween activities such as a Haunted House featuring “Soft Scream” for small children and “Hard Scream” for older children and adults. For kids shorter than 100
cm, it’s free. For kids over 100 cm, it’s 300 baht (see p. 9 for details). On Halloween night, access to Nichada will be restricted. Only homeowners, residents, employees and guests will be allowed after noon. If inviting guests into Nichada to celebrate, residents should contact Nichada security at security@nichada.com. To indicate you’re handing out treats, simply provide Halloween decorations outside your home and turn on your entryway light. If you’re opting out of trick-or-treating festivities, or if you run out of candy, just turn off your front entryway lights. Bulk candies can be purchased at local supermarkets, including Big C and Villa Supermarket, as well as at wholesale outlets such as Macro. For costumes, the White Elephant thrift store on the 2nd floor of Oasis shopping center on Samakkee Road usually offers a good selection of used costumes at affordable prices. Local stores, ranging from 20 baht discount stores to department stores, often carry simple Halloween decorations and costumes as well. Have a fun and safe Halloween, everyone! Liz Lu
After The Boxes Wraps Up Fall Tours; To Return in January Jen Ludlow, Livonia Winkles, Kelly Mott, Stacey Byrne Kandes Tobin and Jill Ebert for volunteering their time and effort to welcome new neighbors and make them feel at home in our host country. Even after the conclusion of scheduled ATB tours, volunteers continue to host special get-togethers, such as birthday luncheons, for newcomers. For more information, please contact ATB leaders at: aftertheboxesnichada@gmail.com.
After the Boxes (ATB), the volunteer group that offered a wide range of free local tours to newcomers in August and September, finished up their tour program on Sept. 17th and will take a break until January, when a new batch of neighbors arrive next semester. In September, ATB treated newcomers to orientation trips such as river taxi rides, shopping trips to the Christmas Shop and MBK center downtown, BTS Sky Train rides, and an excursion to the IKEA store in Nonthaburi. Our community is indebted to ATB team members 28
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Community News
NNR Welcome Coffee Highlights
Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach
The NNR team cannot thank all of the amazing community representatives and sponsors enough for supporting the 2019 Welcome (Back) Coffee. We were excited to see all the new and returning families attend this welcome event and hope that everyone had a chance to chat and learn a little more about the wonderful world the NNR bubble has to offer. Thank you so very much to our hosts Drew and Jennifer Ludlow for opening their beautiful home for the second year in a row to the community. Special thanks also go out to the wonderful organizations who prepared a lovely array of nibbles for everyone to enjoy. Cafe Kabul - located outside Nichada's main gate
offering, in addition to a wide choice of dishes, an amazing buffet dinner every Sunday. Beatriz & Carla - a full service catering company offering wonderful food options and tasteful table decor. London Pie - free delivery to your home in Nichada Thani offering a huge selection of food including pies, bacon, sausages and so much more. Cherry Sweet Kitchen - located upstairs above Villa, offering a lovely place for fresh homemade sandwiches, quiche, smoothies and so much more! Olive Restaurants - serving wonderful Mediterranean cuisine at the Ekamai location and a wonderful selection of dips which can be found at our local Villa Supermarket. Chantal Bremner
New Pizza Shop Outside Nichada’s Main Gate Premium Craft Pizza’s (PCPizza) second location in Bangkok opened in early September just outside the gates of Nichada serving traditional New York and Italian (Roman) styles pizzas with thin, crispy crust; a variety of spaghetti dishes ranging from carbonara to spaghetti tomyum; salads, local, favorite side dishes including chicken wings and calamari plus desserts! Tu, manager of the Nichada branch of PCPizza, explained that owner, Anuwat Chaikittiwanich, brought in pizza makers from New York and Italy to train his local chefs how to make the pizzas in the traditional style. Stop by Premium Craft Pizza’s stylish new space for carry out orders or call in (or message by Line) for delivery orders. Line - @pcpizza Tel: 02 105 4555 Ginny Condra October 2019
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Yoga of Awareness Kerstin Wild
Integral Sound Healing What is it? Sound Therapy is effective in not only achieving a state of relaxation but it also has a way of moving through blockages in the body. Sounds or vibrations are well known to treat conditions as stress, shock, anxiety, high blood pressure, depression, specific health issues & symptoms, pain, addiction or drugissues… Group classes are weekly available Private classes - Only few time slots They are tailored to meet the needs of each individual person.
Kundalini Yoga Class – 90 min Mondays,Wednesdays, Fridays 7:45-9:15am 450.00 Thb drop in / 400.00 Thb 10-times-ticket First class The 300.00
Sound-Gong-Bath&Meditation-45min Tuesdays: 9:30-10:15am Thursdays: 11:00-11:45am
Which tools can be used in a private session? - Kundalini Yoga - Pranayama Exercises - Meditation - Mantras - Reiki - Gongs - Singing Bowls - A variety of other sounds Please contact me for more information and to register to classes.
250.00 Thb drop in / 200.00 Thb – 10-times-ticket
Yoga for Kids 6-9-years-old Yoga for Teenies 10-14-years-old Mondays: 3:00-3:45pm (Kids) 4:15-5:00pm (teenies) 250.00 Thb drop in / 200.00 Thb – 5-times-ticket
Hatha Yoga with Katja - 45 min Tuesdays, Thursdays 7:45-8:30am 250.00 Thb drop in / 200.00 Thb –10-times-ticket (tickets are valid 6 months)
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October 2019
SERVING CHILDREN AGES
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FREE PICK-UP FROM NICHADA THANI 0-2156-6222 OFFICE@MAGICYEARS.AC.TH
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October 2019
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PEOPLE: Joanna Brittingham
From Paper to Pilates to PowerHaus: An Entrepreneur’s Journey
Like many businesses in Bangkok, Das PowerHaus —the Muay Thai, fitness boxing and Pilates studio down an alley across from Nichada Thani’s Samakee Gate—owes its origins to a set of random connections and serendipitous events. About six years ago, its American owner Joanna Brittingham, was working in the marketing department of a paper company in Germany when she discovered Pilates. “A friend of mine in Heidelberg suggested that I try a Pilates class. As soon as I did, I knew that was what I wanted to do for a living.” She pursued that dream and eventually opened her Das PowerHaus Pilates studio in Germany. When she met Till Morstadt, the brother of a German friend who lives and works in Bangkok, a match was struck. Primed with a sense of ambition and adventure, Joanna started scouting for an opportunity to open a fitness studio in Bangkok. Serendipitously, she met Stephen, a friend of Till’s who owned a boxing and conditioning studio called Max Fit in Sichaithong Village. Stephen was thinking of selling. Joanna jumped on the opportunity. “Everything is connected in Bangkok,” Joanna remarks. Till’s connections helped Joanna to find a trainer to offer the Muay Thai and boxing classes to continue Max Fit’s core business, before expanding it to include Pilates. Just before she touched ground in Bangkok 34
in 2017, a young trainer named Pah Maurice Awuy had lost his job. Maurice had been General Manager of Fighting Spirit Muay Thai Gym in Bangkok’s Silom area when, suddenly, the gym was forced to close. “That’s a funny story,” Maurice recalls. “The landlord suddenly ‘discovered’ that the gym was located on ancient Chinese burial grounds and forced us to close within the 24 hours.” (He later learned that the premises were soon occupied by another commercial business.) It was perfect timing for Joanna, who hired Maurice as Das PowerHaus’s manager and head fitness instructor. “Maurice helped me get the gym started and now is really the backbone of the gym,” says Joanna. Indeed, Maurice comes from a background uniquely suited to serve Nichada’s community: the son of a Thai mother and Dutch father, Maurice navigates both cultures seamlessly. What’s more, he has serious fitness credentials. “I began kickboxing and Thai boxing in my teens,” Maurice recalls, “and when I started competing, it clicked. I was like ‘hello, this my thing.’” After serving for two years in the Dutch Royal army that included stints in the Congo and Afghanistan, Maurice resumed Muay Thai training and moved to Bangkok in 2013 to train as a competitor and coach clients. “I want to see how far I can push myself.” Together, Joanna and Maurice have expanded the gym to serve the Nichada community’s diverse fitness appetites. In July 2018, they moved to their current location—the former site of a Muay Thai gym called Phoenix. The gym is located outside Nichada’s front gate. “The move here is the best thing we could have done,” Joanna recalls. “We could not have been able to grow otherwise. We added two trainers and an upstairs Pilates studio, and business has been good.” But it hasn’t always been easy running the business here, says Joanna: “Everything has been an issue,” she says. “Setting up the bank account, the work visas, the VAT, and passing our annual inspection. It might be
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PEOPLE
easier if we had paid bribes, but we want to make sure that everything is 100 percent legitimate.” Joanna’s attention to detail has paid off. These days, Das PowerHaus offers daily classes in beginner through advanced Muay Thai training, high intensity interval boxing, and circuit training. Joanna teaches group and private classes in a professionally equipped Pilates studio. “It’s a fairy tale job,” she exclaims, “and we have really cool customers. They’re great, down-to-earth people, and we’ve really formed a community,” says Joanna. Laura Dodge October 2019
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Feature & Travel Writers & Photographers Wanted
Got a flair for writing? Awesome with a camera? Terrific at meeting deadlines? Contact Liz at nnrnews@gmail.com
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DENLA BRITISH SCHOOL (DBS) is ranked as one of “THE BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN BANGKOK AND THAILAND 2019” One of the leading premium international schools in Thailand, emphasising all-round education and preparing students for world-class universities
Outstanding and different with The Unique DBS Vision.
Mr Mark McVeigh,Principal of Denla British School, who is an expert in education and has all-round experience from leading schools in England and South East Asia, comments that DBS has been created from a vision “Nurturing Global Leaders” that aims to promote educational excellence and leadership in a happy and enthusiastic environment. To build and support students’ successes, DBS operates with the 4 pillars of The Unique DBS Vision, which are An Enhanced British Curriculum, Academic Excellence for All, Entrepreneurship and Creative Thinking, and Community and Global Perspectives.
The curriculum from British independent schools is considered the best UK curriculum.
The British international study programme is the most popular curriculum in the world. The UK curriculum is delivered by 2 sectors in the UK: independent (also called private) schools, and state schools. The UK curriculum for independent schools is intense and comprehensive. DBS is the only international school in Bangkok that implements an enhanced UK curriculum from the best practice of independent schools in the UK. All teachers are native English-speakers (apart from Thai and Mandarin teachers) and they are very experienced. The uniqueness of DBS’s enhanced UK curriculum includes its approach to Personalised Learning. Personalised Learning is about focusing on each student according to their skills and preferences. It can range from individual to small group teaching under the supervision of teachers and learning assistants. Students in Year 13 - 18 years
Visit https://www.dbsbangkok.ac.th Tel.02 666 1933 Email: admissions@dbsbangkok.ac.th
old are nearing their graduation from Senior School, and are approaching a very important period of preparation for the IGCSE and A Level examinations. Eligibility for world-renowned universities, either in the UK, US, or anywhere else in the world, requires good academic qualifications and life skills, such as leadership, social interaction, and passion. These special talents can’t be cultivated overnight, but have to be developed from childhood. With the outstanding feature of an independent UK school curriculum, including an additional 1.5 hours of learning and teaching (also known as the Extended Day system), students at DBS study 8 hours per week more than other international schools at no additional cost for the parents. Students’ time is filled with more than 40 subjects to choose from, which includes academics, robotics, music, sport, dance, cooking, and leadership courses. In this way, students can focus on their preferences and try new things, under the close supervision of more than 60 expert teachers and 40 assistants. This constitutes an important foundation to develop students to advance to world-class universities. “We are proud to have exceeded the standards for membership to the International School
Association of Thailand (ISAT) and Council of International School (CIS), both of which are leading organisations that assess the quality of educational standards of international schools. DBS is also included in the “THE BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN BANGKOK AND THAILAND 2019”, from the school website ranking: www.world-schools.com (https://worldschools.com/the-best-international -schools-in-bangkok/, https://worldschools.com/best-international-schools -in-thailand /), which compiles and ranks international schools from over 100 countries worldwide. DBS students have improved significantly in all areas. They have won various academic awards, as well as prizes from other activities and sports. These all ensure DBS’s reputation as a leading international school that encourages future leaders and entrepreneurs. It is also clear that evaluations from prestigious international school organisations show that DBS is well placed to nurture its young leaders who will compete on the world stage, fully committed to the school’s motto; “Always to Greater Things”, Mr McVeigh concludes.
Travel: Day Trips: NaSatta
Day Trip: NaSatta Escape to Village Life in Ratchaburi Province
A day trip that I highly recommend if you would like to view and learn more about traditional Thai lifestyle from different regions is only about an hour and a half from Nichada Thani. NaSatta, located on 42-rai in Bang Pae district in my native Ratchaburi province, is well-kept and suited for walking in a clean landscape surrounded by beautiful nature. This culture park is organized around the concept of living together with mother nature as well as learning our history. Lots of organized food stands in the area offer a wide range of dishes and snacks that you can try during the tour. The park even prepares umbrellas in case of rain. Not far from NaSatta is a traditional clay jar factory, where you can see how some of the unique products of the province are made. The most well known of these and a symbol of Ratchaburi is the Dragon Jars that you’ve probably seen everywhere in shops and households. I grew up in this province but was still amazed by the environment you will experience when entering the work area. Check out more information about this place from the site http://www.ruangkongong.com/ . I hope you visit these places when you can and spread the word to others who want a different and interesting day trip! Wipha Risser Website: www.nasatta.com October 2019
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Travel: Da Nang, Vietnam
Da Nang and Hoi An, Vietnam Climbing Marble Mountain
In September, a last-minute trip to Da Nang and Hoi An, Vietnam, turned out to be the best weekend get-away for my husband and me. If you’re looking for a relaxing break from it all that includes beach, mountains, shopping and a refreshing change in culture and cuisine, I highly recommend hopping on a plane for the 1.5 hour flight from Bangkok. For U.S. passport holders, remember to appy for a visa online (Many options and prices are available. The service I used charged US$95 for the visa application and letter). Also prepare US$25 in cash or equivalent for the visa-stamping fee upon arrival. The visa-stamping process was straightforward at the Da Nang airport, and tourists paid in US dollars or Vietnam dong. Officers did not ask for visa photos I had prepared. We flew out of nearby Don Muang airport on Air Asia, and by midmorning we were already in Da Nang and ready to roll. Like other travelers, we had purchased SIM cards online ahead of time, so upon arrival, we headed to an airport coffee shop that’s the designated spot for SIM card pickup. ATMs at the arrival terminal made it easy to get cash instantly. Since the exchange rate was 25,000 dong to the U.S. dollar, it took a bit to adjust to all the zeros and figure out that the stack of one million dong from the ATM is just US$40 of getting-around money. Another recommendation is to download and set up a Grab Taxi app on your phone. Although plenty of taxi drivers were at the airport vying for customers, it was much easier, safer and cheaper to use the Grab app and get picked up by a Grab car and driver who is in the system. There was no confusion about the destination, since the driver simply follows your pin drop. There’s a wide selection of accommodation in town, but if you have a beach venue in mind, opt for one of the hotels along Da Nang Bay. We ended up at the VinPearl by the bay (there’s also one in the city center). It turned out to be an excellent choice not only because of the modern and comfortable accommodations and sumptuous breakfast buffet, but also because it is within walking distance of the famous Marble Mountain. 42
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vietnamparadisetravel.com
Travel: Da Nang, Vietnam
Climbing and exploring Marble Mountain turned out to be the highlight of our stay in Da Nang. Its many well-maintained caves, trails, and panoramic views made for an exhilarating morning of hiking. We arrived at Marble Mountain by 7 am to beat the crowd. Elevator was not open yet, but the hike up the stone steps offered a great morning workout. Here’s an insider’s tip about Van Thong Cave: after you climb in and visit the grotto with a Buddha image inside, don’t turn back! Continue climbing up towards the “sky light” - an opening at the top of the slope. You will be rewarded when you emerge from the top of the cave to the apex of a hilltop. Ignore the bottles left behind by other tourists (sad state of affairs) and enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of the surrounding area. Shopping in Da Nang included marble souvenirs such as jewelry and mortar and pestle, etc. A good restaurant find was Madame Lan, where we enjoyed the obligatory Pho noodles and the best and cheapest abalone steaks we’ve ever had. For shopping of clothing and local crafts, we took a taxi ride to nearby Hoi An city. With boat rides, walking streets, restaurants, and lanterns at night—plus a zillion tourists, it seems—Hoi An was bustling with activity. It was a great place to pick up an inexpensive Ai Dao, Vietnamese dress. Before leaving Da Nang, one final stop was the Han Market, where stalls for fresh fruits, rattan crafts and clothing were packed into a 2-story building. All in all, it was a fabulous weekend! Liz Lu October 2019
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Feature: NMV’s 50th National Museum Volunteers Group Celebrates 50th Anniversary
Imagine being a tour guide at National Museum Bangkok! That dream can come true if you take the guide training workshop offered by a volunteer group called National Museum Volunteers (NMV), which will celebrate half a century of cultural and guiding work in November. On November 22 at 10 am, National Museum Volunteers will hold its annual general meeting and celebrate the group’s 50th anniversary! All are warmly welcomed to attend this event which will be held at the Anantara Siam Bangkok Ratchadamri. There is no cost for admission. For those with a keen interest in Thai culture and history but who may not be interested in becoming a full-fleged museum tour guide, taking the NMV’s much-lauded guiding workshop is well worth the time and effort. Those interested in attending the workshop 46
should send an email to nmvguidechair@gmail. com. The grounds of National Museum Bangkok were developed at the same time as the Grand Palace to house the vice king and to stand as the buffer between the river and the Grand Palace. The vice king (or “Maha Uparaja”) who resided there was the second most powerful ruler in Bangkok and oversaw an army to help protect the city against possible enemy attacks. Travel down the river to “Old Town” Bangkok and you can easily imagine what life was like when the early kings of the Chakri Dynasty lived within the walls of the Grand Palace. But did you know that it’s even easier to experience the original nearby palace, chapel and audience hall of the vice king by touring National Museum Bangkok? As the city evolved, the palace of the vice king
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Feature
was used for various purposes, including at one time storing the king’s collections. Eventually it was designated as National Museum Bangkok, and in 1969 National Museum Volunteers was founded, with the mission of training guides to give foreign visitors tours in English, Japanese, German and French. Today, under the auspices of the Fine Arts Department, this mission is accomplished by providing training workshops to those interested in learning more about Thailand. The English workshop is typically offered once each year and includes a combination of lectures, museum visits and excursions. The program runs about two half-day sessions per week for 8-10 weeks. Those attending may choose to volunteer as museum guides when they’ve completed the program if they wish. Many attend simply to learn as much as possible about Thailand’s cultural, religious and historical background. (Please note: It is not necessary to attend 100% of the workshop sessions which may be a concern when you live in Nichada. It is a wonderful educational experience, even if your schedule doesn’t permit you to attend every session and outing.) Taking the workshop also requires becoming an NMV member. However, you can become a member without taking the workshop. National Museum Volunteers members are privy to many activities that further enhance their knowledge about Bangkok and Thailand including lectures, special tours, events, outings, and city walks. NMV’s informative cultural publication, Sala, can further open the door to the unique and beautiful culture of Thailand. As a museum guide and NMV member, I am always happy to talk to those interested in either the National Museum or the guiding workshop—both of which have definitely impacted my experience while October 2019
living here in Thailand. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or would like more information about the National Museum! One suggestion I have is that if you visit the National Museum, go on the tour as you visit the palace and buildings. I guarantee you will have such a greater impression and understanding than if you were to walk through without a guide. Free tours are available in Japanese, German, French and English. Guides are standing near the ticket booth each Wednesday and Thursday morning at 9:30 am.
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Kelly Kabat
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Restaurant Review
Sawasdee Café de Pakkret
Lately there seems to be so many new restaurants and cafes popping up along the Pakkred Bypass Road (the road that connects Chaengwattana Road with Soi Samakee). For example, Haris, Trees O’Clock Café, Prom Beef & Beer, Shabuku, Pukeeprik (the name is only in Thai, but the sign is with the red smiling crab and a big chilli), Sawasdee, etc. Since most of these new eateries are in our neck of the woods, I decided to try one out. I picked the one that seemed to be a local favorite judging from their parking lot that’s always full. Sawasdee Café de Pakkret was my choice. It is located on the Pakkred Bypass road right before Home Pro and opposite Tawan-Daeng German Brewery. The dark blue paneled glasshouse, high-ceiling café is decorated tastefully with hanging plants on the ceiling, rustic wood and metal shelving, and wooden furniture that evoked a warm and homey ambience. There is a separated café area with shiny espresso machines, cabinets stocked with yummy looking cakes and a wrap-around sitting area facing the curved bay windows.
The menu is extensive, offering everything from Thai food (rice and noodles), to salad (both Thai and western), to soup and other main dishes. Sawasdee was moved October 2019
from their original location by Big C where they were known for their noodles; both pork and beef noodles are offered. But the noodle menu is only served till 6 p.m. I tried their Num Tok (spicy) beef noodle which was quite good but a bit sweet for my palette. The portion is a bit small. But the good news is that it leaves room for me to try more things! My family tried a variety of different things including ham smoked chicken wings, which the kids said taste like both ham and wings (lol) and they liked it; onion rings; Korean noodle with pork rib; Yum Woon Sen (Thai style glass noodle spicy salad), crispy pork belly with fruit Som Tam (spicy papaya salad), and others. We also got pineapple smoothies served in whole pineapples. The drink was not on the menu, but was highly recommended by the wait staff. There is no sugar added to the drink, and it was very delicious. They even gave us the pineapple crown to take home with instructions on how to grow them yourselves! (Result to be reported at a later date.)
Other than the smoothie choices, their drink offering offers choices that should please everyone in the family, including milk tea with boba! However, cocktails are not available; wine and beer are only served by the bottle. Sawasdee has plenty of parking spaces, not just out front, but also in the back of the restaurant. The outside seating area looks cozy as well. I saw a family with a little dog dining outside, so I am pretty sure small pets are welcome but seating has to be outside. All in all, I am quite impressed with what Sawasdee has to offer in terms of food choices. The prices are quite reasonable. Dishes range from 55 baht (for noodle), to 59 baht (appetizers such as onion rings and fries), to 100 baht and up for salads and main courses. The dessert menu looks very enticing as well, but only if you have room. We did not, so we have yet to try any. Sawasdee is opened every day from 11 am – 10 pm.
T h a n i Ta l k
Vara Sumetanon 49
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