Thani Talk 2012 September by Thani Talk NNR

N ONTHABURI N EIGHBORHOOD R EACH

S EPTEMBER 2012

Thani Talk Serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994

Getting Settled It’s Not Just for Newcomers

ยินดีต้อนรับ ようこそ

환영

歡迎

Thani Talk is generously sponsored by

Thani Talk ~ September 2012

Board Information Chairperson’s Letter

Editor’s Desk

Welcome back old and new neighbors. I hope everyone had a nice summer and is ready to get back in the swing of the school and/or work routine. I have been involved in the NNR for the past 3 years and would like to tell you what it means to me. I was in Denver, Colorado during the wildfires and the Aurora shootings. As tragic as both of those events were, I saw communities pull together. I saw people taking water and snacks to the firefighters, the medical community doing heroic measures to help the victims of the Aurora shooting, and communities reaching out to each other. I saw this kind of support during the floods last year in Thailand as well. The NNR volunteers collected food, water, boats, clothes and first aid kits and distributed the goods to the flood victims. This is one of the many ways the NNR has been helpful in our host country of Thailand. You will find the Thai people a very appreciative and kind people. The NNR is a community organization that offers coffee mornings and organizes exciting local tours. You can also get involved by volunteering in a local charity or helping with our monthly newsletter. The NNR has been a very supportive community for me, and hopefully, it will be for you as well. I hope to see you at our first Coffee Morning. In the meantime, enjoy reading our monthly newsletter, the ―Thani Talk‖. Patricia Kenrick

Welcome back to Bangkok, and to newcomers, welcome to Thailand! Thani Talk, published by volunteers of Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach (NNR) and distributed for free to more than 1,000 expatriate families in Nichada and surrounding neighborhoods, is packed this month with helpful ideas for newcomers who are busy settling into their new homes. Everything from how to find a doctor, how to hire a maid, where to eat, and where to volunteer.....it's all here in this month's issue. In addition, we also have regular columns such as "Recipes", "Travel", "Health & Nutrition", and many more. The goal of Thani Talk is to provide as much community information as possible to make your stay in your "home away from home" as enjoyable as possible. For those new to Thailand, we hope the tips and articles will help you discover all that the Land of Smiles has to offer. For folks who have lived in Thailand for a while, we'll do our best to introduce fresh ideas and resources that you may not have known about. At the same time, we welcome editorial contributions from you. Perhaps you'd like to review a newly discovered restaurant, or share highlights of a special family trip. Send it in! Feel free to contact Layout Editor Laura Sadowski or me with ideas and articles you'd like to share. Laura and I are both new to the editorial team this year, and we are excited about the chance to bring the community together with timely and useful information each month. All the best, Liz Lu, Editor Thani Talk

NNR BOARD 2012 Chairperson

Patricia Kenrick

084 559 3674

Treasurer

Juliana Magalhaes

087 074 3666

Activities/Tours

Birgitta Damgard Alexandra Ries

085 480 1362 084 388 4457

Coffee Mornings

Sarah Glaze

081 793 0806

Advertisements

Marlena Yarbrough

02 960 3361

Newsletter Editor

Liz Lu Laura Sadowski (Layout) Casey Corning (Proof Reader)

089-924-5306

Distribution Coordinator

Heather Powell

083 293 2169

Charity Volunteer Coordinator

Susan Curtis

080 043 2735

Bazaar

Carla Zeitune

085 4495666

nnrtours@yahoo.com

nnrads@yahoo.com nnrnewsletter@yahoo.com

ADVERTISING 1 page

26.5 x 19 cm.

2,500 baht

1/2 page

18 x 13 cm.

1,500 baht

1/4 page

13x 9 cm.

800 baht

   

Rates per issue, discount for annual ad Please submit ads in jpg. Deadline for all ads is the 15th of each month. Ads must be paid in full prior to publishing.

NNR 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 a free monthly newsletter that has a distribution of 1000 copies. We host monthly coffee mornings, an annual charity bazaar and organize monthly tours. There are no membership dues. 2

Coffee Morning News/Tour Info

Thani Talk ~ September 2012

SEPTEMBER COFFEE MORNING Welcome Back and Welcome to Newcomers! Date: Friday, September 14th 2012 Time: 10.30am until 12.30pm Venue: At the home of Patricia Kenrick, 36/228 Nichada Park, Soi 6 ―Welcome‖ to all our new Nonthaburi residents and ―Welcome Back‖ to all those returning from summer holidays either locally or around the globe. We always start the new school year with a Welcome Back Coffee Morning, so please come along and meet some new people and/or catch up with old friends. If you can, please bring a plate of baked goods or fruit to share. For more information please call Sarah Glaze: 081-793-0806

NNR SEPTEMBER TOUR CHATUCHAK MARKET TOUR Friday, September 7, 2012 Our first NNR Tour after the Summer Break! Don't miss the fun! Chatuchak Market, the famous market located about 10 km north of downtown Bangkok, is home to more than 8,000 market stalls. At Chatuchak, you will be amazed by the sheer variety of merchandise, whether it‘s a Moroccan lamp or an antique chest, handmade Thai arts and crafts, or an exotic python. If you can dream it up, Chatuchak probably has it. Date: Friday, September 7, 2012 Time: 8:30a.m. Meet in front of Chevron Theatre at ISB. In order to be back in Nichada in time for school dismissal, the group will depart Chatuchak Market at approximately 1pm. Cost: You‘ll only need to pay for transportation. Price of ride depends on number of participants. Space is limited. If interested, please contact us at: alexandra.ries@yahoo.com or birgittadamgard@gmail.com

Cover Story: Getting Settled

Thani Talk ~ September 2012

5 Basic Tips for GETTING SETTLED in the Nonthaburi Neighborhood To all the new families in our community, congratulations on arriving in Thailand! Setting up a new home in a foreign country is never easy, but the good news is that here in Bangkok, plenty of people are ready and willing to lend a helping hand, and resources abound for newcomers to ease their transition to the Land of Smiles. As many Bangkok veterans know, the "Bible" for newly arrived expats is the thoroughly researched "Bangkok Guide" published by the Australian-New Zealand Women's Group. If your moving company's welcome basket did not include a copy, be sure to pick one up at the Villa market here in Nichada Thani, or at any of Bangkok's major English language book stores, such as Asia Books or Kinokuniya. Actually, the Bangkok Guide is such an excellent resource that simply reading its "Getting Settled" section and perusing other topics in the book will be plenty to get you off to a great start. What I'd like to add to the Guide are some basic tips gathered during more than 20 years of living here in Thailand. More importantly, I'll include suggestions specific to the Nichada and Nonthaburi areas.

1. TIPS ON LOOKING FOR DOMESTIC HELP One of the greatest luxuries of living in Thailand is the relative affordability of household help, be it maids or drivers. To find good, reliable help, start by asking friends and neighbors for referrals. Here in Nichada, the community bulletin board outside of Villa market is a popular location for want ads and notices from job seekers. Postings on the bulletin board require a stamp from the Nichada office. Be patient in waiting for someone who is the best fit for your family. First, identify what services your family needs. Do you prefer live-in or live-out Bulletin boards outside of Villa Market in NICC help? Do you require an Plaza are a good place to advertise. English speaker? Do you require child care, pet care? What working hours would you like to set for the maid? For example, a family with young children may need early morning care as well as late evening babysitting. Agree to hours and overtime rates. Generally, salaries paid in the Nichada area are higher than those elsewhere in Bangkok. Ask around to get a ballpark figure. For your reference, in April 2012, the minimum wage in Bangkok increased to Baht 300 per day. Maids and drivers who speak and/or read English are typically paid more than those who do not speak English. 4

Thani Talk ~September 2012

Cover Story: Continued

Other factors justifying higher pay include amount of work experience, extent of duties, work hours, and content of recommendation letters from their previous employers. Learn to read between the lines. If a previous employer is only willing to state the start and end dates of employment and a description of basic duties, with minimal or no praise, that letter is telling you the applicant's performance was less than satisfactory. If phone numbers are provided, feel free to contact the previous employer to ask for details or clarifications. Should you decide to hire an applicant, it is customary to ask for a copy of the person's Thai identification card for your own records. If you decide to hire a non-Thai applicant, be sure to ask to see a copy of a valid work permit. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of Burmese applicants seeking work in our community. Many speak English but little or no Thai, so an additional consideration is whether you prefer a Thai speaker in case of local emergencies. Some companies may have policies regarding the hiring of non-Thai domestic staff. Check with your employer regarding the company policy. Sample of a Thai identification card.

If you're interested in a top candidate, you can offer a job with the condition that the applicant pass a physical exam, especially if the person will be responsible for food preparation and/or child care for your family. Employers often pay for these tests. The Bumrungrad Clinic in Nichada, as well as Thai hospitals in Nonthaburi and nearby neighborhood clinics, all provide basic job physicals. Tests recommended include Hepatitis, Tuberculosis, and HIV. For drivers, you may want to add an eye test, and also go out on the road for a driving test with the candidate.

Household Humor

If the maid or driver you hire will be responsible for The Bumrungrad Clinic in Nichada can dropping off and provide physical exams. picking up your child from the ISB campus, you will need to apply for ID cards for them from the school. These ID cards, which must be renewed each year, can be obtained at the ID card printing office, temporarily located behind the school's Chevron Theatre, until the end of August. Each family is allowed 3 free ID cards for domestic staff. Additional ones cost 200 baht each.

Continued on next page

Cover Story: Getting Settled

Thani Talk ~ September 2012

2. TRANSPORTATION The majority of ISB families live in Nichada and surrounding communities, therefore many walk or bike, and some even skateboard to school (skateboards must be left at the school's front guard gate). There is on-campus parking for bicycles, motorcycles, golf carts, and cars, but space is limited. There is a helmet requirement for bicyclists and motorcyclists. Taxis are often waiting outside the main Nichada gate. Always make sure they use the meter. You can walk to the taxis or ask the guard at school or your housing complex to call a taxi to come and pick you up. Nichada shuttle carts can also be called if you need rides within the housing estate. A small fee is charged. To get to downtown via the expressway, private car is the fastest. But for those who would like to try public transportation, there is Bus #166 that takes you from Chaengwattana near HomePro to Victory Monument, from where you can hop on the Sky Train. Bus 166, as well as small passenger vans, leave from Victory Monument and head back towards Chaengwattana via the express way. Finally, there's the river boat option. Express boats can be boarded at the Pakkred or Nonthaburi piers, but it's a L-O-N-G ride to downtown. Very picturesque though, if you have the time.

Chaophraya River boat taxi.

3. HOSPITALS & DENTAL CLINICS Here in Nichada, the Bumrungrad Clinic is conveniently located near Villa market. Elsewhere in Nonthaburi and for in-patient care, hospital choices include Mongkutwattana Hospital near Big C on Chaengwattana Road, and Nonthavej Hospital near The Mall on Ngamwongwang Road. Downtown hospitals popular with the expatriate community include Bangkok Nursing Home on Convent Road, Bumrungrad Hospital on Sukhumvit Soi 3, and Samitevej Hospital on Sukhumvit Soi 39. To select a doctor, you can go to the hospital websites and check their credentials, specialties and office hours, as well as make an appointment. However, walk-in appointments are also accepted. The wait is usually not very long. At the above hospitals which have high numbers of international patients, the reception desk usually has a special international guest service representative who speaks English and other languages. With physicians and medical facilities all under one roof at most of the hospitals, consulting different specialists and doing lab work is a one-stop experience. Prices are often less expensive than similar services in other countries. In fact, the high quality of medical care in Thailand has spawned an entire medical tourism industry. As for dental care, nearly all major hospitals operate a dental department. Many offer Sunday and evening hours for their patients' convenience. In addition, dental clinics are also located in shopping malls and other convenient areas. For Nichada and other Nonthaburi area residents, one popular dental clinic is DentaJoy at The Avenue Shopping Complex on Chaengwattana Road. This location is part of a chain of three DentaJoy clinics offering professional services including cleaning, checkups, and orthodontic care. 6

Cover Story: Continued

Thani Talk ~September 2012

4. TIPS ON CULTURAL ETIQUETTE Many of you may have already figured out by the cluster of shoes outside homes here in Thailand, that it is customary to remove one's shoes before entering someone's home. There are a myriad of other cultural do's and don'ts, but Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ll mention just a few of the most common ones that have gotten foreigners into trouble. Of the many cultural taboos you may already have learned about, the top two are probably: 1) Do not touch another person's head, and 2) Do not point your feet at someone. The first rule applies even to children's heads, though I've seen exceptions to that. As for the second one about not pointing one's feet at another person, it's one of the reasons why Thais prefer to kneel sitting on their heels or with their legs and feet politely folded behind them. The feet rule actually got a friend of mine in trouble when, in order to be more comfortable during a car ride, she propped her feet up on the arm rest between the driver's and front passenger's seats. There they were: massive toes and feet just inches away from her driver's body. Her driver, usually a gentle, quiet man, was so distraught by this flagrant affront that he actually spoke up and asked that she put her feet down on the floor. Care should also be taken if you want to display Buddha and other temple images in your home. I once placed a Buddha head on a side table, much to the consternation and discomfort of a visiting Thai friend. She explained to me that the image should have been placed on a higher and more honored spot. Other etiquette rules that you may encounter include wearing closed-toe shoes at temples, taking one's shoes off before entering a temple, and covering one's shoulders and legs when visiting a temple (sarongs and shoes can be borrowed or rented at many temples)

5. TIPS ON TIPS In general, tips are not expected, but appreciated. In a small noodle shop where the bowl of wonton noodles cost 35 baht, there's no need to tip. At a medium sized sit-down family restaurant, Thais typically round up the total amount or leave a modest percentage, depending on service. At fancy restaurants or major hotels, a 10% tip, plus 7% Value Added Tax, are automatically tagged on. Diners may supplement that if they choose to reward exceptional service. Massages and other personal care services are tipped based on percentage, depending on the quality of the service provided. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but if you round up the total fare or add an extra 20 baht for good driving, you make their day. COMING NEXT MONTH: MORE TIPS AND IDEAS FOR SETTLING IN! Learn about book clubs, women's and other national clubs, sports clubs, volunteer opportunities, and much more!! Liz Lu 7

Happy Hour Invitation

Thani Talk ~September 2012

SEPTEMBER GIRLSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; NIGHT OUT: Happy Hour Prices All Night We have decided to kick start the new school year with a Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; Night Out in a fantastically convenient location within Nichada Thani itself. Come along for a fun, relaxed and social evening and meet up with friends old and new. Venue: The Olive Restaurant, Premier Place I (towards the expressway back gate next door to Rose Marie Academy) Date: Thursday, September 27th Time: 4.30pm onwards The Olive Restaurant has kindly offered us special, Happy Hour prices all night on mojitos, margaritas and sangria (red or white) at 100 baht net per drink. Wine by the glass will be 150 baht. Prices per bottle range from 850 to 1,450 baht. Elena Karoumpi, co-owner of The Olive Restaurant, has also kindly offered to provide a selection of her delicious Greek Mediterranean cuisine as bite size canapes for us to taste. Anyone wanting to order extra food will benefit from a 10% discount offer that night. We hope to see you there. No need to RSVP, but any queries please call Sarah Glaze: 081- 793- 0806.

Getting Settled: Trailing Spouses

Thani Talk ~September 2012

Are you a Trailing/Accompanying Spouse? What to do When You Can’t Work Landing in a new country as an expat can be challenging enough. But what do you do when you have to redefine your whole identity? Often spouses who have expatriated for their partner‘s career can‘t work in their new country. Usually it is because their residence visas don‘t allow it. There can also be language barriers and, in some cases, a simple lack of job opportunities for the trailing spouse‘s skill set. Without the possibility of employment, the accompanying spouse often experiences an identity crisis that compounds the stresses of settling in a new country. There are many ways to rediscover yourself even if you can‘t legally work in your new country. Consider one or more of the following: Pursue your hobbies: Scrapbooking, quilting, reading, travelling, biking, golfing, etc. Entrepreneurship: Start a business, invent a new app, etc. Learn the Language: Take a Thai class or consider learning a different language altogether. Take a Class: Want to finish a degree or start a new one? Online or in person classes can offer a lot. Volunteer: See our Charity Contact Information on page 22 of this issue for a list of local charities. Join a Club: See our Out and About in Nonthaburi on page 37 of this issue for a list of clubs. Raise Children: Take advantage of being the stay at home parent and enjoy this time with your children. Start a Blog: Write about what you love to do and be amazed at how many people share your passions. Not all of these solutions are right for everyone and you may try a combination of several options before you find what works best for you. Look at these days as an accompanying spouse as an opportunity to grow and discover who you are. Trying new things and following your passions is a great way to make friends, build your self confidence and discover ‗the real you‘. Adapted from the blog of Alison Cornford-Matheson http://cheeseweb.eu/2011/02/finding-trailing-spouse-work/

Thank You

Thani Talk ~ September 2012

May Coffee Morning Thank You On May 17th we held our annual ‗School‘s Out‘ coffee morning at Alexandra Ries‘s house in The Regent. It was a relaxed and informal get together with friends and neighbors, most of whom were planning to disappear around the world for the summer. There was an amazing spread of homemade, mouth watering goodies and everyone enjoyed tucking in. The date was also marked by a special occasion. Although she had tried to keep it quiet, a little bird told us that it was Susan Curtis‘s birthday – a rather special one, 16 again! She looks amazing for 16! Naturally we all sang ‗Happy Birthday‘ and Patricia Kenrick thoughtfully organized a plate of special cupcakes on her behalf. Patricia Kenrick, Susan Curtis, Sarah Glaze, and Alexandra Ries

Friends and neighbors took time to catch up on vacation plans and say farewell.

Richard Johnson from Maxfit (located outside the back gate of Nichada) popped in to tell us all about his China Charity Bicycle ride that he was planning to undertake during the summer. By the time you read this he should have rode an astounding 2,800km (1,750 miles) starting at Beijing and finishing in Guilin, travelling along some of the oldest sections of the Great Wall via Xian. Richard used his thigh power to gain sponsorship to raise money for one of our very own NNR Charities. All proceeds will go to buy lightweight wheelchairs and interactive learning books for the Baan Rachawadee Home for disabled boys. Any donations, no matter how small, would be gratefully accepted.

Fun for all ages!

Finally, a big thank you to Alexandra for being such a fantastic hostess and for welcoming us into her beautiful home, which was very much admired by all present. Sarah Glaze NNR Coffee Morning Coordinator 12

Restaurant Review: Ploenchit Area

Thani Talk ~ September 2012

Looking for a New Place to Break Bread? Try Fondue Sweet Home

This month's restaurant review is of Fondue Sweet Home located in central Bangkok. Traditionally, fondue is a Swiss dish of melted cheese served in a communal pot over a flame and eaten by dipping long forks with bread into the melted cheese. Today, it has been expanded to include other dishes in which food is dipped into a pot of hot liquid, such as chocolate fondue with fruit pieces, or fondue bourguignon, in which pieces of meat or seafood are cooked in hot oil. Fondue Sweet Home was a pleasant find. The inside is a bit plain but the food is good and reasonably priced. The rich cheese fondue with bread to dip (we also dipped our fresh vegetables and garlic Dipping into a cheese fondue with a bread) and the decadent chocolate fondue with fresh fruit and long-stemmed fork. marshmallows were the favorites. They have a nice variety of salads and soups as starters. It's a fun environment for kids to share cheese pots, pots for veggies, and pots of beef bourguignon, chicken, or shrimp. They serve wine. However, there is no corkage fee if you bring your own bottle. Have fun and enjoy your meal! Submitted by Dianne Letsch Fondue Sweet Home 20-20/1 Ruamrudee Village, Ploenchit Road, Lumphini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 02 255-9765. If using the BTS, it is a close walk from the Ploenchit Station. Toasted garlic bread.

Creamy lobster bisque.

Fresh tossed salad.

Health and Fitness

Thani Talk ~ September 2012

Understand and Practice Yoga Yoga is a life of self-discipline based on the tenets of simple living and high thinking. The body is seen as a vehicle for the soul, and has specific requirements which must be fulfilled for it to function smoothly. Yoga is the combination of five disciplines: Discipline #1, Asana (proper exercise): a term which means steady pose. Asana is meant to be held for some time, performed slowly and consciously. Asana goes far beyond mere physical benefits and becomes a mental exercise in concentration and meditation. Numerous modern physical culture systems are designed to develop the muscles through mechanical movements and exercises. Asana (yogic physical exercise) is designed to develop not only the body but also broaden mental faculties and spiritual capacities. Discipline #2, Pranayama (proper breathing): as a yoga teacher I can‘t say it enough: most people use only a fraction of their lung capacity. They breathe shallowly, barely expanding the ribcage. Shoulders are hunched, they hold painful tension in the upper part of the back and neck, and they suffer from lack of oxygen. Thoughtful management of breath can be a practical daily aid, contributing to health and vitality. Here is my suggestion on this: What most of us need these days is a breathing program that can help us at our desk, cars and computers. With Pranayama (proper breathing), even depression can be overcome. Place the shoulder blades as close together as you can without strain and exhale gently and fully. Pause, then inhale with a deep, slow, gentle breath until the lungs are comfortably filled. Breathe out slowly through the nose with a long sigh and without altering the position of shoulder blades. Do this a dozen times and tension will disappear. You will have stimulated the brain and eased nerve tension by providing a fuller supply of life-giving oxygen. Aaron and Dana Tegegn doing a pose of their choice.

Disicpline #3, Savasan (proper relaxation): Relaxation is nature‘s way of recharging. In order to regulate and balance the body and mind, it is best to learn to economize our energy. We can do this best by learning to relax. Yoga prescribes a period of complete relaxation, when practically no energy ―Prana‖ is being consumed. Perfect relaxation must be practiced on three levels: physical, mental, and spiritual. Discipline #4, Vegetarian (proper diet): The cycle in nature known as the ―food cycle‖ or ―food chain‖ begins with the sun, the prime source of energy for all life on our planet. Many people worry about whether they are getting enough protein, but neglect other factors. The quality of the proteins is more important than the quantity alone. Dairy products, legumes, nuts and seeds provide the vegetarian with an adequate supply of protein. A healthy motto is ―Eat to live, not live to eat.‖ Discipline #5, Meditation and Positive Thinking: When the mind is still, with no thoughts or desires, you can see the ―self‖. This state of calm is called ―yoga‖. Yoga recommends the control of mental agitation by two means, concentrating the mind either externally or internally. Internally, we focus on the ―self‖ or the consciousness of ―I am‖. Externally, we focus on anything other than the ―self‖ or ―I am‖. The mental ability to concentrate is inherent to all; it is not extraordinary or mysterious. Meditation is best achieved by the constant observation and calming of the mind. It involves setting aside a regular time and place for the specific purpose of discovering that infinite well of wisdom that lies within. All of the above is not difficult or new to those who know me through my practice or teaching. I combine and link all of the technique into a 60-minute Ashtanga style yoga class at Mansions in the Park. Feel free to contact me on my mobile 081-696-1038. Submitted by Serki Guadie 15

Community Bulletin Board

Thani Talk ~ September 2012

The purpose of the Community Bulletin Board is to provide information about local organizations and activities which are available for a fee. If you would like to advertise your business here, please submit your announcement by the 15th of each month to nnrnewsletter@yahoo.com. Cost per announcement is 400 baht. Vinyasa Yoga Develop strength, flexibility, balance, focus and awareness coordinating movement and breath. Thursdays 8.15-9.45 am: Clark Hatch Gym above Starbucks. All levels welcome. Contact: Ellie Edelhoff 087-000-2464 or 02-987-9677 Email: eedelhoff@hotmail.com Sunset Yoga Tuesdays 5.30– 6:45pm: Located at Ellie‘s home studio: 39/184 Natakorn Park START DATE PENDING INTEREST AND CLASS SIZE. 7 Places Available. Call and reserve. Meditation Courses (Individual or group) Learn to meditate-TM style. Relieves stress and anxiety. Improves health, academic, athletic, and professional performance. Easy natural, anyone can learn. Expert instruction by a 30-year teacher of meditation. Contact Ellie Edelhoff for more information. www.TM.org, www. tmeducation.org, www.DavidLynchFoundation.org Yoga Welcomes Everyone Alignment based yoga practice Stronger, flexible, and kind Level II: Wed 7:45-9:15 am. Challenging and dynamic. Level I: Fri 8:45-10:15 am. Foundation of the practice. Contact: Napisa C. Pant 086-975-7187

Pilates Group Classes The Pilates method strengthens the pelvic, abdominal and back muscles. It also improves central alignment and posture, increases balance and flexibility. The Swiss ball and BOSU ball are fun and challenge your core and balance. Class locations vary. If you prefer a more personal approach, private machine sessions (Reformer, Cadillac, MVe Chair ) are available for core strength training & rehabilitation. Mon: 8:45am Intermediate Matwork 4pm Matwork Tues: 7.30am Matwork 4pm Pool Pilates (Sept & Oct only) Wed : 7.30am BOSU Pilates 9:00am Pilates Tabata Circuit Training (intermediate) Thurs: 4pm Matwork Fri: 7:30am Pilates on the Swiss ball (intermediate) 9am Prenatal Join us for a 3D2N Barefoot Pilates Retreat in September 2012!! Introducing Tai Chi Chi Kung and the Five Tibetan Rites of Rejuvenation at the Retreat. Contact: Tiffany 081-860-9593 Suzanne 087-935-2020 Email: tiffanyhebard@gmail.com suzanne439@gmail.com

Velvetnotes, Music, Inc Margerie Mullings Adult singing ensemble: Mondays Glee Club 5yrs+: Mondays and Wednesdays Ashtanga, Vinyasa Yoga with Alignment and Tech- Piano/Singing/Guitar/Saxophone/Violin/Ukelele niques of Iyengar Yoga classes: Monday-Friday Beginners to Advanced: Telephone: 083 438 5075 Everyday Mon-Fri, 8am-9:30am ProClub 2nd Floor. Contact: Juan Bodan 081-285-3050 or visit website Ranger Boot Camp www.kripa-yoga.com Come join in the "FUN" & "GET FIT" Classes for all fitness levels Bollywood Dance Class Days: Monday - Saturday Bollywood dance is a fusion of Western dance with Times: Mornings, Afternoons, and Evenings traditional classical Indian dance styles. It‘s funky, Contact: Jack at 087-552-6007 sexy, fun... and it‘s a great workout! Email: rangerbootcamp@hotmail.com Classes every Tuesday and Thursday:10am Regent Dance studio, Nichada Thani. Contact: Irit: 086 004 4840 iritmike@gmail.com 16

Thani Talk ~ September 2012

Book Corner

AN AUTHOR AMONG US: INTERVIEW WITH M.G. EDWARDS It is always exciting to learn about the fascinating people who live along side us here in Nonthaburi. We, at the Thani Talk, recently learned that our neighbor and Nichada resident, M.G. Edwards, published a memoir earlier this year. The book, Kilimanjaro: One Man's Quest to Go Over the Hill, is available as an e-book and in print. In the interview printed below, we learn more about Mr. Edwards, his book, and his future projects. 1. Where are you originally from? I grew up in a small town in North Idaho. I lived in the Pacific Northwest most of my life until my wife Jing and I joined the Foreign Service and moved overseas. I didn‘t realize how beautiful my hometown was until I left the Coeur d‘Alene area and it became a popular tourist destination. When my family and I go back to visit, we feel like tourists! 2. How long have you lived in Nichada and what brought you here? Are you here with any family? M.G. Edwards visiting the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi. My wife, son Alex and I arrived in Nichada last year. Jing works at the American Embassy, and Alex is entering the fourth grade at ISB. I left the diplomatic corps last year to pursue my dream to write full time and couldn‘t be happier. I love living in Nichada and enjoy getting involved with the local community. 3. How long have you lived overseas and where else have you lived besides Thailand? My family and I moved overseas with the Foreign Service in 2005. We previously lived in South Korea, Paraguay, and Zambia. It‘s been a nonstop adventure living on four different continents in seven years. Thailand is shaping up to be one of our best experiences overseas. Nichada is incredible, but we‘ve also enjoyed getting out and seeing more of this intriguing country. 4. Have you always been a writer? If so, what else have you written? If not, what other work have you done? I‘ve been a writer for more than 30 years. When I was young, I dreamed of being an author but chose to pursue a traditional career path until I began writing full time last year. I started my first book, a mystery, at age ten and wrote an as-yet unpublished stack of novels, stories, and poems. Now I‘m making up for lost time! In 2011, I published some short stories in a collection called Real Dreams: Thirty Years of Short Stories available as an e-book and in print and a children‘s e-book I co-wrote with my son called Alexander the Salamander. Continued next page The author hiking Kilimanjaro. 18

5. What inspired you to write your memoir? What is your book, Kilimanjaro: One Man's Quest to Go Over the Hill, about? I write a popular travel blog called World Adventurers (worldadventurers.wordpress.com). Each week I publish one or two travelogues with photos from around the world. After I returned from my Kilimanjaro climb and started blogging about it, I realized that I had an inspiring story to tell and turned it into a memoir. It‘s the first of many travel memoirs I hope to publish in the World Adventurers Series. 6. When you said this to me: "This book is for anyone who feels over the hill and needs encouragement to make a life change in the face of difficult odds. It's also for the casual climber or hiker who is interested in climbing one of the world's tallest mountains. Filled with insights and advice for those who are contemplating their own Kilimanjaro climb, this book will put you on the mountain and inspire you to go over it." I imagine that you are speaking literally as well as figuratively. Is that true? Is this book a "How to" book for hiking Kilimanjaro as well as a "How to" book for making a significant life change? It‘s true…the book is both literal and figurative. I had two audiences in mind when I wrote Kilimanjaro…those who want to know more about climbing the highest mountain in Africa and those who need inspiration to tackle major challenges in their lives. The book has several chapters dedicated to helping would-be climbers prepare for their climbs. I also shared my difficulties to connect with those who face their own obstacles. I hope that the book will encourage readers to draw on their inner strength and persevere through adversity. 7. What other writing projects are you working on now? I‘m writing a psychological techno-thriller novel called Hyperlink that I plan to publish next year. It‘s a major departure from travel writing and will set the stage for more speculative fiction novels that will leave readers asking, ―Could this really happen?‖ The short story ―Verda‖ in Real Dreams is about humanity's efforts to colonize a fictional moon orbiting the Earth. The 1997 story explores themes of space exploration that scientists are now talking about in their quest to study and colonize Mars. Stay tuned for more speculative fiction! 8. Any idea what the second book in the World Adventurers Series might be? I have several books planned. The second book, Eurasia, scheduled for 2013 will chronicle my adventures as a college-age backpacker in China, Russia, and 19 European countries. A short excerpt is available to read in Kilimanjaro. It‘s another travel adventure I think Nichada residents will enjoy. Thank you, Thani Talk, for letting me share my story. I‘m happy to meet and get to know my fellow Nichada residents. If you‘d like to learn more about my books or buy your copy in ebook or paperback, please visit my website at www.mgedwards.com or contact me at me@mgedwards.com. A list of booksellers that carry my books are available on my website. M.G. Edwards is a writer of books and stories in the mystery, thriller and science fiction-fantasy genres. He also writes travel adventures. He is author of Kilimanjaro: One Man’s Quest to Go Over the Hill, a non-fiction account of his attempt to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain and a collection of short stories called Real Dreams: Thirty Years of Short Stories. His books are available as an e-book and in print on Amazon.com and other booksellers. He lives in Bangkok, Thailand with his wife Jing and son Alex. For more books or stories by M.G. Edwards, visit his web site at www.mgedwards.com or his blog, World Adventurers. Contact him at me@mgedwards.com, on Facebook, on Google+, or @m_g_edwards on Twitter. © 2012 Brilliance Press. All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted without the written consent of the author. Interview by Laura Sadowski 19

Charity Spotlight: Baan Rachawadee

Thani Talk ~ September 2012

NNR Supports the Boys of Baan Rachawadee Dorothy Klynstra is a Canadian-trained, occupational therapist who has volunteered at Baan Rachawadee (a home for mentally handicapped children). She shares with us photos, and a letter describing how NNR donations made possible the purchase of physical therapy toys and equipment for boys at the Home. Dear NNR, I am writing to let you know how some of the NNR funds given to me to use at Baan Rachawadee have been used. Recently I attended the BIG (Bangkok International Gifts) show in Bangna so that I could purchase a variety of therapeutic toys at a reduced price. Many boys benefited from educational and musical instruments bought at the show. As always, thank you for your ongoing support of the development of boys with intellectual and physical disabilities. The following were purchased with money donated by NNR:

A gym set with a set of a dozen brightly colored 6 inch balls, with 2 cones, portable net with closed bottom and tossing rings will be enjoyed by the boys at Physiotherapy, Baan Rachawadee. It took a few tries but success brings great joy.

Three sets of easy to grasp, brightly colored magnets and connecter balls. The boys will practice their fine motor skills with this enjoyable medium.

* This Plan play truck has a sturdy, heavy duty wooden body that can be used by the boys at Rachawadee in Physiotherapy. Love those wheels.

Musical instruments from IQ Plus Music caught the attention of the boys. By using the thunder tube, the boys develop coordination, new learning, and planning skills. The boys at Baan Rachawadee and the physiotherapy staff who work with them appreciate the new musical instruments. Some instruments, such as the cymbals, have been adapted to be easier to hold. There was â&#x20AC;&#x2022;a whole lot of shaking going onâ&#x20AC;&#x2013; with the egg shakers.

The boys were also able to develop awareness of their bodies in space, differences between sounds, colors, and names of fruits and vegetables, by using the IQ Plus Music fruit shakers purchased using NNR donations.

Magnet set from Logos Marketing Co. Ltd. I modeled how to use the magnet set donated by NNR to teach counting, colors, and shapes. The fine motor coordination needed to handle the magnets will help them develop their grip for holding a pencil. The students were fascinated by the science of magnets and copied complex 3-D designs. Dorothy Klynstra 21

Charity Contact Information You can make a difference right here in Nonthaburi. The NNR has supported many local charities through the years, but the real support comes from the volunteers who donate their time, energy and love to those less fortunate. Here are some of the charities we support.

Baan Feung Faa Address: Mission:

Tiwanon, Soi 1, Pakkret A government orphanage for mentally and/ or physically handicapped children. It houses over 500 children from birth to 10. Needs: Volunteers to play with, and stimulate the children, as well as drive children to medical appointments. Also needed are toys, clothes, musical instruments Contact: Louise Weavers E-mail: weavers.5@gmail.com Telephone: 081 867 4588

Baan Rachawadee (for Boys) Project OGAT Telephone: 02 583 8426 Ext 116 Address: 78/6 Tiwanon, Soi 1, Pakkret Mission: A rehabilitation home for mentally & physically handicapped boys ages 7 - 18. Needs: Money, art supplies, etc.; volunteers to provide compassion & to help with games, music, art & walks Contact: Dorothy Klynstra 085 3204523 Email: ogatpakkred@hotmail.com

Thani Talk ~ September 2012 For more information about how you can be part of this group of volunteers or to volunteer at any of the charities we sponsor, contact: Charity Volunteer Coordinator, Susan Curtis at 080 043 2735.

Klong Prem Prison (Men) Lad Yai Prison (Women) Address: Mission: Contact: Phone:

Nonthaburi Reception Home for the Destitute Telephone: Address: Mission: Needs: Website:

Needs:

Contact:

www.rachawadeeying.com 78/15 Tiwanon, Soi 1, Pakkret Provide residential care and rehabilitation services for mentally handicapped girls whose ages are between 7 - 18 years old. Sports equipment, money, art supplies, etc.; volunteers to provide compassion & to help with games, music, art & walks. Khun Pimban 02 583 6731 Ext 888

02 583 0044 / 02 582 0771 78/12 Moo 1, Tiwanon, Soi 1, Pakkret This organization offers food, shelter, medical assistance, & training to homeless adults. Adult diapers, clothes, toiletries & money www.thai.net/raiteepueng_non

Rainbow House Rehabilitation Center Contact: Website: Telephone: Mission:

Baan Rachawadee (for Girls) Website: Address: Mission:

33/2 Ngamwongwan, Chatuchak Help with prison visits and to care for terminally ill prisoners. Johara Nour 086 061 6608

K. Chariya Saenwian, Managing Director www.ccdthailand.org 02 503 1270 / 081 985-5517 A daycare facility run by Christian Care Foundation for children with disabilities. Caregivers & teachers prepare the children for normal home life & school.

Sang Tawan Children's Home Telephone: Address: Mission: Needs: Contact:

Khun Tat, Director 02 521-1744, 081 402- 7795 3/710 Phahonyotin Soi 48, Bangkok 10220 A home for abandoned children, providing a permanent residence for 10 children under 9 years. Donations are needed to meet their monthly living expenses. Tiffany Hebard 02 960 3730

Sparrow Home for Babies of Prisoners Central Welfare & Vocational Training for Women Contact: Website: Telephone: Address: Mission: Needs:

K.Piyada, Deputy Director www.vtcw.org 02 961 1882 / 02 583 8350 Tiwanon, Soi 1, Pakkret Provide vocational training for disadvantaged women enabling them to earn income to support their families. Money, fabric, computers, clothes, toiletries, personal hygiene products.

Telephone: Address: Mission: Needs: Contact:

K. Noi, Supervisor 02-503-5144/089 685 9974 20/1 Soi 63 Samakee, Pakkret The home is for children of female prisoners waiting to be reunited with their mothers. Volunteers are needed to play, feed & bathe the children. Claudia Stone 02 583 0550

YMCA of Pakkret Contact: Khun Saisom Komalasevin, Exec. Director Telephone: 02 583 0998 Address: 99/19 Chaengwattana, Pakkret

Recipe Corner: Thai Salad

Thani Talk ~ September 2012

Pomelo Salad (Yam Som O)

Party Size 2 cups 1/8 cup 1/2 c. fried 1/2 c. unfried 4 cups 3/4 cup

Chicken or Shrimp, cooked, steam or boil, shred chicken. Ginger, chopped Shallots, sliced, fry in oil until crispy, blot dry on paper towel Shallots, sliced Pomelo, peeled and break apart into pieces Spring Onion, chopped

Family Size 1 cup 1 tsp. 1/4 cup 1/4 cup 2 cups 1/3 cup

Mixed in and as a garnish Garnish Mint Leaves 1 cup Coconut Meat, cut & fried in a pan with no oil until toasted 1 cup Peanuts, toasted (in a pan with no oil)

Garnish 1/2 cup 1/2 cup

Sauce 1/4 c. 1/2 tsp. 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. 1/2 cup 2/3 cup

1/8 cup 1/4 tsp. 1/4-1/8 tsp. 1/4 cup 1/3 cup

Lemon Juice Salt Thai Chili Paste (optional) Water Sugar

Prepare the sauce first. Place water and sugar in a pan and over heat until dissolved. Let cool. Then add lemon juice, salt, and (optional) chili paste. In a large bowl, gently combine the chicken/prawns, ginger, shallots (fried & unfried), pomelo and spring onion. Just before serving, add the sauce and toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Add Mix-ins and garnish. Arrange some of the mint leaves on top. Options you can add in: You can add coriander/cilantro leave, to taste. For a spicier salad, cut & add Thai red chilies, to taste. If fresh coconut is unavailable, you can use shredded desiccated coconut. Submitted by Khun Wilai Klahan

Heard It Through The Grapevine

Thani Talk ~ September 2012

This is a column that we hope everyone will appreciate. It‘s a chance to share all those good finds and tips so that others can benefit. If you would like to contribute to this column, please send your tips to the editor at nnrnewsletter@yahoo.com.

ABC Amazing Bangkok Cyclist: A Fun Outing One of the favorite NNR tours of last school year, this company deserves another mention. A half day (cost: 1000 THB) or full day (cost: 1500 THB) biking tour of Bangkok is a great way to become more familiar with city life and local Thai culture. The adventure starts from Sukhumvit Soi 26, and the fee includes a tour guide, bike rental, snacks, fruit, drink, and long-tail boat ride. Lunch is included on the full day tour. The biking is easy and relaxed, and suitable for people over age 6 comfortable with riding. A minimum of two tour guides accompany every group and groups usually consist of 2-6 people. Private tours can be arranged. Hearing positive things about the NNR tour, I sent my four visitors on the half day tour last May. They reported that it was well organized, safe, and highly informative. They also took some great pictures. For more information see http://www.realasia.net/index.php. Laura Sadowski

Boat Bakery Restaurant Opens Near Nichada Boat Bakery has opened a two story restaurant conveniently located near Nichada; next door to The Paulaner Garden. Its extensive menu features both Thai and Western dishes. You‘ll find appetizers, soup, salad, pasta, fish, meat, vegetarian dishes, smoothies, floats, cocktails, beer, soft drinks, coffee/tea and a case filled with desserts. Wine is only sold by the bottle, so take along friends to share. Prices are reasonable. The food is good. Servers speak limited or no English, but each time we have found an English speaker. Menu items are in both English and Thai. The décor is modern. It‘s a nice addition to our neighborhood area restaurants. Cakes are available for various occasions. Boatbakery.net 087-260-1000 or 02-962-7100 Rufie Harr

New, But Not! For new families and returning friends, we'd love to share one of our favorite local restaurants, with its new "facelift". Le Bouchon, a.k.a. Bruno's, has had a summer make over. It still boasts the same great cuisine, while adding style, warmth and excitement. It is fantastic for a romantic dinner, a night out with the guys...or the gals! The bar has been lengthened and "showcased". There are 2 flat screen TV's for sporting events and an upgraded sound system with a wide selection of music/playlists available. We've always felt lucky to have a "downtown restaurant" in our backyard...we hope you will too. Rick and Terri Thomas

When Life gets Overwhelming Reach Out for Helpâ&#x20AC;Ś For 30 years, Carl Janowitz has provided counseling for adults, adolescents and families. Educated and trained in the United States, he also had a private clinic at Bumrungrad Hospital for five years. Now with two locations downtown and also in Pattaya, Carl specializes in clients dealing with life changes, relationship conflict, stress management, school problems, substance abuse and self esteem issues. For a confidential appointment please call 089 680 3503 or counselor_cj@bangkokhappy.com www.bangkoktherapy.com Carl Janowitz Marriage and Family Therapist First Tower Sukhumvit 1/1 (Behind Bumrungrad) 28

Travel Review: Eastern Africa

Thani Talk ~ September 2012

The Allure of the Spice Islands and Nile River in Uganda Born in southern Africa with an affinity for nature, I was happy when my son Matthew expressed his wish to catch the largest river monster, the Nile perch! Soon we were on Emirates Airlines bound for Tanzania en route to Uganda. Excitement intensified inside Dubai Airport when my daughter, Sarah spotted a slender shadow moving behind a tall palm tree. The dark silhouette of a Masai, a member of the ethnic group of people found in Kenya and northern Tanzania, gracefully passed us by, swathed in a red kikoi! Soon we landed in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and were greeted by clear blue skies and a bright sun, just in time for afternoon tea! The Hyatt in Dar es Salaam has beautiful sea views overlooking the port where, the next morning, we would catch a fast ferry boat to the island of Zanzibar, off the east coast of Tanzania. The Melia Zanzibar Hotel delighted us with a sumptuous buffet lunch upon our arrival! The Spanish-style resort is situated on a 100 acre estate with lush gardens and private white beach! We relished the temperate climate, basking in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean during the day and gazing at the sparkling stars winking â&#x20AC;&#x2022;goodnight,â&#x20AC;&#x2013; over the jetty bar! Hearing the call of deep equatorial Africa, we flew on to Entebbe, Uganda enjoying the sight of snow capped Kilimanjaro on the way, coming in to land on the far side of Lake Victoria. Driving down to Kampala, Matthew spotted a motorcycle laden with five gigantic Nile perch caught in Lake Victoria, and Sarah amidst the rapids, bottom somehow I knew it was a good sign! of Murchinson Falls, Uganda On the five hour journey to Paraa Lodge, driving on gravel tracks, we made some worthwhile deviations, such as veering off in pursuit of the top of Murchison Falls! Arriving in time to catch the river ferry was a fait accompli on its own! The charming cottage on the River Nile was perfectly isolated from the main lodge, so that we could be closer to nature with the hippos grunting and splashing only a few meters from our veranda. The next morning we set out fishing in a small tin boat, well aware we could potentially become Nile crocodile Jetty Bar at Melia Zanzibar. treats! Moving through the rapids at dawn, we captured bait to use to catch the big one! We saw elephants, baboons, waterbucks, crocodiles, hippos, and many species of birds! Would a whopping Nile perch at 75 kg surely give extreme angler Jeremy Wade a challenge to return?

Hippos basking in the sun.

Once you have visited Africa and experienced her vastness, only then can you know! Helen Poff Matthew after catching his river monsterthe Nile perch. 29

Around Nonthaburi and Beyond Impact Arena—www.impact.co.th/en/calendar Bangkok Wedding Fair, Bangkok Jewelry Fair, Bangkok Furniture Fair September 1-9, 2012 Time 11:00am-9:00pm Hall 1-4 The event features Furniture Fair; Wedding Fair; fashion and jewelry; 50th Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair 2012 September 13-17, 2012 Time 10:00-5:00pm Challenger Hall 1-3 The premier exhibition that showcases exquisite gems and jewelry from more than 1,000 companies all around the world. Handcrafted, contemporary, traditional, urban jewelry, precious and semi-precious stones.

Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC)—www.bitec.co.th 2012 Bangkok International Gift Fair and Bangkok International Houseware Fair (BIG, BIH) Open to Trade October 16-19, 2012 10:00am-6:00pm Open to Public October 20-21, 2012 10:00am-9:00pm Gifts, decorative items, home textiles, stationary, toys and games, artificial flowers and plants, handicraft, household products, and small electrical appliances.

Thaiticketmajor—-www.thaiticketmajor,com Great Artists of the World 2012: Broadway Hits Concert Friday September 7, 2012 8:00pm Thai Cultural Center, Main Hall Maroon 5, Live in Bangkok Concert 2012 Monday October 8, 2012 8:30pm Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani

****Daily Commute-Van Share**** Nichada to Wireless/Ploenchit/Silom/Sathorn/CBD We are a small group of commuters who work for organizations in Bangkok and we do a daily commute from Nichada. We have extra space in our van for riders making the same commute. Morning: Pick up (M-F) at Nichada front gate by 7-11 or other nearby areas at 5:50 am. Drop off at various spots in CBD at approx 6:30am. Afternoon : Pick-up at 3:45-4:00; Drop-off at 4:45pm. Cost: Depends on number of riders, about 6,000 THB/ month. For more information, write us at samakee.van@gmail.com.

Thani Talk ~ September 2012 ACTIVITIES and SERVICES NichadaTennis Leagues Tuesday-Intermediate League Mary McCarty— mrymccrty@yahoo.com Tuesday Evening 5pm-7pm— Intermediate League Sue Lin — suelin@truemail.co.th Friday - Intermediate/Advanced League Julie Collins - pjcollins13@hotmail.com Bangkok Quilt Group Meets Tuesday mornings in the Nichada area. Open to quilters of all levels. Contact Linda Kubota at siamquilter@gmail.com or 081.451.6336 Chaengwattana Community Church Sunday Service- Sundays 9:30am Life Groups- Tuesday and Wednesday evenings Encouraging Women– Wednesdays 9:30 HS House Groups- Sunday 11:30am MS House Groups- Thursdays 6:30pm Contact CCC for more information http://www.cccthailand.org It‘s almost time for Chaengwattana Community Church‘s annual High School Beach Retreat. This weekend is all about having fun, taking time to get to know your peers, relaxing in a breathtaking place and getting to know Jesus. The retreat is held Sept. 21-23 at Koh Talu, which is an island in the gulf of Thailand. It has only one resort and is the perfect place to get away from the crazy schedules, take time to enjoy nature, and recharge. The package includes buffet meals, organized snorkeling, squid fishing, kayaking, trekking and so much more. This event is sponsored by the Youth leaders at Chaengwattana Community Church and promises to be an unforgettable weekend! All high school students are welcome; sign up quickly as space is limited. For more information contact Andrew Pennels at andrew@cccthailand.org or 086-779-3547. Catholic Mass in Nonthaburi Our Lady of Mercy Church 69/13 Moo 1, Tiwanon Rd. Ban Mai, Pakkret, Nonthaburi 11120 English Mass: Sundays at 5:15pm Fait Formation (Religious Ed/CCD) Classes in English Just 15 minutes from Nichada Thani OurLadyofMercyParish@gmail.com CCT - Club Canada Thailand Monthly Coffee Morning and Activities www.clubcanadathailand.com BWG - British Women's Group Monthly Luncheon, Activities, Coffee Mornings. Open to all nationalities. Contact: Sarah Glaze 081-793 0806 www.bwgbangkok.com; info@bwgbangkok.com ANZWG -Australia and New Zealand Women’s Group Monthly Coffee Mornings, Tours, Newsletter & Activities Contact Sonia Williams at 085-910 5155 www.anzwg-bangkok.org American Women’s Club of Thailand Monthly Luncheon, Activities and Coffee Morning Contact: 02-712-3380/1 awc@awcthailand.org; www.awcthailand.org

T.C.D. Co., Ltd. Training Creativity Development 399/7 Soi Thonglor 21, Sukhumvit 55-21, Bangkok 10110 johnstcd2@hotmail.com Tel & Fax: 02-391-5670, tel: 02-712-8503

Private tutoring Dear Parents and Students, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ve been teaching in Bangkok for over 20 years in international schools and privately. TCD is a network of over forty experienced and qualified teacher/tutors for all subjects from middle school through 12th grade. We offer remedial or enrichment classes in Math, Sciences, Social Studies, Language Arts, Foreign Languages, E.S.L. including IB and AP courses. We also help with test preparation: the new SAT, all levels and subjects of IBâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s and Final Exams. We can teach in your home after school or on weekends. We also help with university applications. We are aware of the high standards at most international schools and are prepared to help you meet those standards. For further information contact me any time. Thank you.

Providing high high quality custom tailoring for more for than more 45 Providing quality custom tailoring years, Raja‘s Fashions has been featured in Men's Vogue than 45 years, Magazine, International Living, Worth Magazine, Esquire, Raja‘s Fashions been featured in Men'sGuide, Vogue Fortune, Bangkok has Guide, Lonely Planet, Frommer‘s Fodor‘s Guide, The Washington Post, Vivre A Bangkok, Magazine, Conde Nast Magazine and many other travel magazines. International Living, Worth Magazine, Esquire, Fortune, Bangkok Guide, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s Guide,

DRESS SHARP. LOOK SHARP. FEEL SHARP.

DELIVERY RESTAURANTS

PHONE

BUSINESS

PHONE

Au Bon Pain

02-101-0312

Bamboo Spa Bank of Ayudhya Bumrungrad Family Clinic

02-583-9871 02-582-2669 02-960-4216

Clark Hatch Fitness Center Crystal Holiday Travel Gain Florist Gifted Hands

02-960-4326 / 27 02-960-4469 081-644-0590 02-960-4434

Amporn‘s Food (Thai -Formerly Pum‘s) 02– 584-4003 BBQ Sandwich King

086-773-4140

Bukhara (Afghan/Indian)

082-443-1398

Burger King

1112

Food Loft

02-831-5588

KFC and Pizza Hut

1150

Le Bouchon Food Delivery McDonald‘s Milano‘s @ Pro Club

02-962-2850 1711 02-582-1555

Mr. Enzo‘s

02-960-0411

New York Diner

081-624-2099

NICC Club

02-960-4326

Olive Restaurant

02-960-3286

Pizza Company

1112

Que Pasa

02-960-3821

Scoozi

02-715-8555

Sharja (Indian, Arab, Thai)

087-811-7980

Subway

02-960-3232

Sudhathai Food Delivery Service Farangfooddelivery.com

02-583-2694

Hair By Jib Happy Teeth Dental Clinic Great Massage ISB

02-960-3783 02-960-3988 02-960-3691 02-963-5800 Nails 089-057-2398 Le Studio Hair 084-022-9928 Nichada Customer Relations 02-960-4300 / 9 #187 Nichada Club Pandit Carpets Panipa Rex Pharmacy Rose Marie Academy Smile Beauty Starbucks Twist Villa Market Wash-N-Dry 4 Legs Pet Shop & Grooming

02-960-4326 / 7 02-381-5850 02-960-3934 02-960-4001 02-960-3663 02-952-4927;081-828-1637 02-967-9686 02-911-6839 02 -584-5444 085-945-4132 02-960-4189 43