Pattaya City Uncovered Magazine

May 2014

www.PattayaCityUncovered.com

Pattaya by day & Night

Pattaya Living

Pattaya Restaurants

Pattaya Real Estate

Useful Tips for First Time Visitors to Pattaya 5 of the Best Restaurants in Pattaya

The Future of Pattaya Golf Tours Villa Rentals vs. Hotels

Pattaya City UnCOvErEd

Pattaya City UnCOvErEd

contents

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06 USEFUL NUMBERS / TOURIST INFORMATION

47 PATTAYA BY NIGHT

Important Phone Numbers & Visa Regulations

48 Live Blues Music in Pattaya 50 Sample the Sweetness of SugarBaby Agogo 52 Every Time is ike the First Time at Windmill Agogo 54 Trip the Light Fantastic at The Pier Nightclub 56 Alcatraz Agogo - Escape from Reality 58 Paradise is Calling at Pattaya’s Newest Agogo Club 60 Feel the Vibrations at The Booze Lounge 62 Oscars Agogo - The Most Unique Agogo in Pattaya 64 6 Things That Make a Unique Night Out in Pattaya

07 PATTAYA BY DAY 08 Explore the Abyss with Mermaids Dive Center 09 Useful Tips for First Time Visitors to Pattaya 10 Splashdown in Style at Pattaya’s First Adult Water Park 12 Pattaya Day Trip - A Guide of Bang Saray 14 Trip the Light Fantastic @ Planet Earth Beach Club 16 Walking on Water at Pattaya Floating Market 18 The Art of Haggling on Thai Markets 20 Luxury Cruises in the Gulf of Siam 22 Feel the Rush at Pattaya Bungy Jump

From the lofty heights of Pratumnak Hill to the murky goings on amidst Walking Street, and everything in between, Pattaya City Uncovered is a labor of love by those who live in Pattaya for those visiting the city for the first time, or if you are seeking out something a little different but don’t know where to look.

We are your one-stop-shop for the nitty and gritty in the city, so rub in your sunscreen, brush up on your pigeonhole Thai, strap on your seatbelts and enjoy the ride.

10 23 PATTAYA RESTAURANTS 24 Bruno’s Restaurant & Bar 26 Voodoo Restaurant & Pub in Jomtien 28 The Punch & Judy Pub 30 The Lion Pub 32 5 of the Best Restaurants in Pattaya

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36 Legends Pool & Sports Bar 39 Buying the Right Property Insurance Policy at the Right Price 40 Marrying a Thai National 44 The Future of Pattaya Golf Tours

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PattayaCityUncovered.com

We would like to welcome you to the premier issue of Pattaya City Uncovered Magazine.

This city on the Eastern Seaboard that we call home is one of the most eclectic and fascinating holiday destinations in the world, infamously known for its hedonistic nightlife scene. However, there is more to Pattaya than meets the eye.

Did you know that there are lots of activities and attractions for families visiting Pattaya?

Did you know that Pattaya has the highest concentration of golf courses in Southeast Asia? There are lots of things going on in the city that barely get mentioned… and this is where we come in!

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35 PATTAYA LIVING

Welcome to Pattaya City Uncovered

65 PATTAYA REAL ESTATE 70 Villa Rentals vs Hotels 72 The New Nordic Love Affair with Pratumnak Hill 74 Due Diligence on Thai Property Purchase 76 The Nova Group - Tried, Tested and Trusted

PattayaCityUncovered.com

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UsEFUl nUMbErs / tOUrist inFOrMatiOn

iMPOrtant Phone Numbers Suvarnabhumi Airport Call Center: 02 132 1888 don Mueang Airport Call Center: 02 535 1192 bUS TERMINALS - bANGKoK Southern bus Station (Sai Tai Mai): 02 434 5558 Eastern bus Station (Ekkamai): 02 392 2521 Northern bus Station (Mo Chit): 02 272 0299 AIRLINES Air Asia: 02-515.9999 bangkok Airways: 02 265 5555 Thai Airways Int.: 02 356 1111 Pattaya Tourist Police: 1155 or 038 414 669 Pattaya Police Station: 191 or 038 420 802 banglamung-Naklua Police Station: 038 221 800 Jomtien Police Station: 038 232 330 Tourism Authority (TAT): 1672 or 038 428 750 Immigration Pattaya: Jomtien Beach Road, Soi 5: 038 252 750 751 HoSPITALS bangkok Pattaya Hospital: 1719 or 038 427 777 Pattaya International Hospital: 038 428 374 Pattaya Memorial Hospital: 038 429 4224 Queen Sirikit Hospital Sattahip: 038 245 926 FIRE SERvICE Pattaya Fire brigade: 199 or 038 424 678 Naklua Fire brigade: 199 or 038 221 000

Pattaya by day

VISA Regulations Foreigners from most countries can obtain a visa on arrival which is valid for 30 days. Foreigners from most countries can apply for a tourist visa in their own country, which is normally valid for 90 days. However on arrival first you get only a stamp for 60 days and after that you have to contact the immigration office for an extension for the full 90 days.

Warning: Do not risk being here on an over stay.

If on departure you have an over stay, you will have to pay a penalty for every day of the over stay, except if the total over stay is only one day.

But worse than that, if the police obtain you somewhere else than at the airport or the border without a valid visa they may put you into prison and you might have a lot of problems. So always contact the nearest immigration office if you do not want to leave the country in time or if you cannot leave for serious reasons, i.e. health reasons. An extension for 7 days is normally never a problem.

There are also other types of visa are available. Please contact the embassy or the Immigration office.

N.B. This visa information is only a guide line and the regulations may change.

Also always have a copy of your passport and a copy of the entry stamp / visa with you. A copy normally is accepted, so you can leave your passport in your hotel safe.

N.B. Working in Thailand without a work permit is strictly forbidden for foreigners.

PattayaCityUncovered.com

Khao Chi Chan (buddha Mountain) see page 12

Another option is a so called "Visa Run", i.e. to Cambodia. You exit the country, even for only for some minutes and on re-entering the country you are granted a 30 day visa. However with this kind of visa you are not allowed to stay more than 90 days in the country within a period of 180 days.

People with an age of 50 years or older can easily apply for a retirement visa. They have to prove, that they have more than 800,000 Baht in a Thai bank account or they have to prove that their monthly income is more than around 70,000 Baht. Foreigners married to a Thai National get a 50 % "discount" on these amounts. The retirement visa allows you to stay in Thailand for one year without leaving the country. After that it can be renewed.

However people staying more than 3 months in Thailand have to report at the immigration office every 90 days with a document, which clearly shows their current address.

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PATTAYA

BY DAY

in this sECtiOn ... > Explore the Abyss with Mermaids Dive Center > Useful Tips for First Time Visitors to Pattaya > Splashdown in Style at Pattaya’s First Adult Water Park > Pattaya Day Trip - A Guide of Bang Saray > Trip the Light Fantastic @ Planet Earth Beach Club > Walking on Water at Pattaya Floating Market > The Art of Haggling on Thai Markets > Luxury Cruises in the Gulf of Siam > Feel the Rush at Pattaya Bungy Jump PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by day

Pattaya by day

MERMAIDS DIVE CENTER

Explore the Abyss with Mermaids Dive Center

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hailand is generally considered as one of the best scuba diving locations in the world, which is some accolade. Although Pattaya might not be at the top of list of the best dive destinations in Thailand, there is still a vast cacophony of dive locations and untouched marine life. Whether you are looking to do a spot of diving, wanting to try for the first time, or just want to explore the stunning corals in and around the Gulf of Thailand, then there is only one company to choose – Mermaids Dive Center in Pattaya.

As the most established scuba dive center in Pattaya, first opened in 1990 in Jomtien, today Mermaids Dive Center have two locations in the Pattaya and Jomtien areas, and also one at the Amarin Plaza in Bangkok. Known as the dive center you go to when seeking out reliability, Mermaids is highly recommended, especially for the first-timer to scuba diving.

Are you a first-time scuba diver?

Those who want to take their first soiree into the amazing world of scuba diving need to book with the most reputable company around… that really is essential. With Mermaids Dive Center you can dive today, even with no experience. You will be guided by one of their extremely competent dive instructors and even take 2 dives after learning the basic skills in the pool or in the shallows. The 1-day dive experience is for those aged 10 years and above, and once you have completed the course, you will receive a PADI professional dive certificate.

If you are already a qualified diver, Mermaids Dive Center will take you out to explore the Samaesan Coral Islands and the local shipwrecks. Operating 4 boats on a daily basis means you will be able to go out any time you want to explore the surrounding aquatic beauty.

The fantastic selection of scuba diving tours and dive training certificates on offer at Mermaids is

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Useful Tips for First Time Visitors to Pattaya

all you will need to either learn how to dive, to teach diving to others, or to simply explore all the best dive sites in the region. The list of dive training courses on offer includes Scuba Diving courses, PADI Specialty courses, Technical Diving and Training, DDI Programs and Certificates, and Scuba Diving Safety.

Pattaya is an incredibly safe tourist destination and if you use your common sense and do not do anything you would not do in your home country, your holiday should turn out to be one that you will remember for the rest of your life. That being said, we have put together a few tips that you should review and remember that will help to make your stay here even more enjoyable.

Alongside having the best health and safety policies, Mermaids Dive Center also have all the equipment needed for diving, although if you have your own gear, bring it along as it will save you money by doing so.

Tip # 1 – do NoT Wear Gold Necklaces or Jewelry – Pattaya has a gold shop on virtually every corner, which makes it very easy for a thief to quickly sell any gold that they acquire unscrupulously. Besides being caught not wearing a motorbike helmet, probably the most reported crime when it comes to tourists is gold necklaces snatches.

If you are new to diving, an expert seeking the best dive spots in the region, or are seeking certifications, Mermaids Dive Center is the one-stop-shop you have been yearning for.

For more information regarding Mermaids dive Center, you can visit: www.mermaidsdivecenter.com oFFICES: Mermaids Head office Jomtien 315/166-167 Moo 12, Thappraya Road Jomtien Beach, Pattaya City Thailand 20150 Tel: +66 (0)38 303 333 Fax: +66 (0)38 252 120 After Hours: +66 (0)86 143 5547 Mermaids Centara Grand (Pattaya) Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya Wongamat Beach, 277 Moo 5, Naklua Road Nongprue, Banglamung Thailand 20150 Tel +66 (0)38 371 528 Head Office +66 (0)38 303 333 Mermaids bangkok Amarin Plaza Building Unlimited Zone, 2nd Floor Ploenchit Road, Bangkok Thailand 10330 Tel/Fax: +66 (0)22 530 300

Tip # 2 – don’t Argue with a baht bus driver – The standard fare for a Baht bus ride is 10 Baht.

However, if you go a very long distance, the ride could cost you 20 Baht. If the driver asks for 20 Baht instead of the normal 10 Baht, just pay them because it is defiantly not worth arguing over.

The Baht bus drivers for the most part are very hard working honest people just scrapping by trying to feed their families and keep a roof over their heads. However, a very small percentage are not particular nice, so never, but never get into an argument with one of them, because you really do not know who you are dealing with.

Tip # 3 – Avoid violence at all Cost – If you are one of those types of people that thinks of themselves as being a tough guy that never lets anybody push you around, you are in the wrong country. In Thailand, nobody is going to take of you, but you, so never forget that.

Tip # 4 – do Not Smoke Marijuana or Use Any Illegal drugs – In many parts of the world today getting caught by the police smoking marijuana results in little more than a traffic ticket. However, that is not the case in Thailand if you are caught you will defiantly be deported, go to jail, and possibly be even sentenced to prison, and a Thai prison is pretty much the last place on earth that you want to be.

If that warning about marijuana was not enough to scare you, if you are caught with a more powerful drug in this country regardless of the quantity, you almost certainly will be facing a very long prison sentence.

Tip # 5 – Rent a motorbike to explore Pattaya – One of the most interesting ways to explore Pattaya is by motorbike. They are cheap, convenient and cool. There is no better way to get around the city to be honest, just make sure you have your license with you and always wear your helmet for obvious reasons. We would suggest that you only rent from our recommended list of bike rental companies to keep the stress to a minimum. Please also remember to never leave your passport with the motorbike rental companies, as a copy should suffice.

PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by day

Pattaya by day

in Style at Pattaya’s

First Adult Water Park Other mind-blowing rides at the park include the Wall Racer, Big Blue, Blob, Slip and Slide, Zorb Mountain and the Square Runner. Although the park is mainly geared towards adults, there is Zorb Mountain that is dedicated to children, so you can bring the family along and keep a friendly equilibrium maintained in your household without your kids hating you forever, so there is an upside to all of this. Alongside the rides, there is also an onside restaurant, bar and gift shops for when you need to get your feet back on the ground.

If you are an adrenaline junkie, daredevil, chancer, watersport lover, high-octane adventurer, thrill-seeker or just want to walk on water, then you need to visit Splashdown Waterpark this second with no hesitation.

Pattaya’s newest, bone-chillingly exciting and unique adventure attraction is waiting for you to make waves and splash down in heroic style.

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re you one of those grown-ups that have never grown up? There is nothing wrong with being a boy trapped in a man’s body, especially if you live in Pattaya, where it’s almost compulsorily, and defiantly an advantage, to be a man-child.

If you still love getting on a bouncy castle but have progressed onto classier high-octane thrills such as throwing yourself off a skyscraper with a parachute attached to your back or have become partial to a bit of bungee jumping, then we have something

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The park is open from 9am to 6pm, 7 days per week, and costs 1,500 THB per adult, although children under 10 years old get free admission to the park.

that will blow your socks off… literally!

Wouldn’t it be great if there was a water park in Pattaya, geared towards adults instead screaming little kids? What a coincidence, because Pattaya’s first and only water park for adults, Splashdown Waterpark, has recently opened.

Inspired by the American television series ‘Wipeout’ that has 39 spin-offs in countries around the world, Splashdown gives you the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Wipeout’s adrenalin-

pumping rides such as the tallest inflatable waterslide in the world at 15 meters in height and the show’s main feature, the ‘big red balls’. And big red balls are exactly what you will have after a few rides at the park!

Created and owned by Brit, John Wrey, and Yosita Phuangjampee, the park is set over 8 rai of land on Highway 36 near to the Bira International race track and the back-end entrance to Siam Country Club, all just a 10-minute drive out of Pattaya City.

SPLASHdoWN Co., LTd

105/2, M00 2, Tambon Pong, Amphur Banglamung, Pattaya, 20150.

Email: splashdown2014@gmail.com Website: www.splashdownwaterparkpattaya.com PHoNE: Eng 092-234-9679 Thai 092-228-6065 Russian 083-556-8186 PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by day

Pattaya by day Khao Chi Chan (buddha Mountain)

Bang Saray

Viharn Sien Temple

Nong Nooch Gardens

PATTAyA dAy TRIP

A Guide of

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Bang Saray

e are routinely asked, even by tourists who have been to Pattaya many times before, for day trip itineraries that encompass lots of the region’s attractions in a single day. This is the perfect opportunity to rent a car or taxi and get out of the sprawling metropolis and explore the surrounding areas of the region. For our first daytrip itinerary, we would like to take you on a journey to explore the Bang Saray area, which is under a 30-minute drive from downtown Pattaya, merging the best of culture, cuisine and the beautiful beaches you can find outside of the city.

8am: Nong Nooch Gardens If you want to discover the Bang Saray region, it’s a good idea we make an early start at 7:30am.

Our first stop for the day will be at one of Pattaya’s most popular attractions at Nong Nooch Gardens.

It will take approximately 30-minutes to get to the gardens, which open at 8am every day. The gardens are set over 500 acres in size, making it one of the biggest places of its kind in the country.

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Nong Nooch Gardens is most famous of course for its botanical offerings, but in fact this place has much, much more. For starters, the gardens offer some incredible cultural shows, demonstrating to visitors some aspects of Thai culture and leaving them with a better understanding of Thailand’s history and its people. The show also includes traditional Thai dancing, which is very popular, and even elephants (one of the national symbols of Thailand) performing incredible feats. The elephants can play football, bowl, and otherwise interact with guests of all ages and sizes. This is a great way to start the day, especially for families.

The admission price for adults is 500 THB per person, although it is cheaper for kids.

11:30am: bang Saray beach Literally over the road from Nong Nooch Gardens is one of the finest beaches in the area – a real rough diamond so to speak. Bang Saray Beach has a similar feel to the beaches you find in Southern Thailand; peaceful, beautiful and un-crowded. The views looking out across to Pattaya Bay are simply stunning. This is predominantly a Thai beach,

although you will see a few tourists here.

Surrounding the beach are vast amounts of seafood restaurants.

12:30pm: Seafood restaurants in bang Saray By this time, you will probably be eager to have a spot of lunch. Bang Saray Beach has several seafood restaurants, ranging from small beachside stalls to larger restaurants resting on stilts in the sea. Here you will find some of the most sumptuous and affordable seafood in the region to take advantage of.

2pm: Silverlake vineyard On your way back from Bangsaray Beach, you will see a turning for Silverlake Vineyard on the opposite side of Sukhumvit Road. Blessed with excellent soil and warm weather, Thailand is actually a fantastic spot for wine making and grape growing, and as such is seeing an increase in the number of vineyards and wineries opening up. Silverlake, as the name suggests, is a vineyard sprawled around a large lake. You can explore the exotic gardens and vines on a makeshift train that will take you around the entirety of its grounds.

Sample the wines and the ultra-tasty grape juice to complete the experience.

3:30pm: Khao Chi Chan (buddha Mountain) On the same road as Silverlake, you will find Khao Chi Chan, also known as Buddha Mountain, jutting out of the earth’s crust in spectacular fashion.

Opened to commemorate His Majesty The King’s Golden Jubilee in 1996, the main attraction is a mountain with a Buddha image skillfully silhouetted into the rock in gold. It’s free to enter and there are lots of gardens and pavilions to enjoy.

5pm: viharn Sien Temple Located on a side-road leading from Silverlake Vineyard, you will find Viharn Sien temple, which is one of the most impressive spiritual spots in Thailand. More of a museum than a normal temple, Viharn Sien houses an impressive collection of art and antiques from China and Thailand. Viharn Sien opened in 1987 with a royal blessing from King Rama IX, the current and widely respected monarch of Thailand. Ever since, history buffs and those seeking inspiration have come to take in the incredible amount of history in this place’s halls.

The small scaled-down model of the Terracotta Army really is something to behold.

7pm: back in Pattaya After nearly 12 hours of exploring Bang Saray, you will be back in Pattaya in time for your evening meal or just in time to have an hour’s rest before sampling the best nightlife Thailand has to offer.

PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by day

Pattaya by day

Trip the Light Fantastic @ Planet Earth Beach Club

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ouldn’t it be great if we had an Ibiza-style beach club in Pattaya. We have the climate, the atmosphere and most certainly the people to make it reality. The great news is that Planet Earth Beach Club in Jomtien was recently opened to a fanfare of praise and accolades, bringing a slice of the Balearics directly to Pattaya.

Planet Earth Beach Club is the creation of three interesting entrepreneurial minds, one of which is Stuart, whose 50th birthday at the club culminated in a party for the ages to behold. Eyes bulged out of their sockets as necks arched to view the drop-dead gorgeous party girls from Galaxy Cabaret gyrating to the hottest summer dance and hip-hop tunes expertly mixed by the club’s resident DJ. The temperature was reaching fever pitch and it was still only late-afternoon.

Planet Beach Club is located at the south-end of Jomtien Beach Road on Soi 15, just 100 meters from the ever-beautiful stretch of sand that is noted as one of the best in the region.

Created with decades of experience establishing venues across the Balearic Islands, the club is committed to only the highest service standards with fun, vibrancy and style as their hallmarks.

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Seamlessly blending together a sumptuous food menu, friendly staff, lots of relaxing lounge areas, a bar, massage and VIP areas, Jacuzzis, Wi-Fi internet, and of course a gigantic pool as the club’s focal point, all the planets have aligned to bring you something special, thought-provoking and ultimately, memorable.

exotic mix of beats to put you in the mood for fun.

As I strolled around the club on the afternoon of the birthday party, people were enjoying themselves like never before. The mixture of hot Thai and European girls alongside alpha males that wouldn’t be out of place on Venice Beach or Baywatch candidly flirted with each other as a host of Stuart’s friends, the beach club’s local clientele and media personnel such as myself intermingled together to create one of the most eclectic crowds I have ever witnessed assembled in Pattaya, let alone in Jomtien.

Just a few weeks ago, the hip-hop emcee of Fugees-fame, Wyclef Jean, paid the club a visit, showing you exactly the type of clientele that the beach club attracts, although Wyclef probably won’t be back until November! Beautiful, bold, chic, stylish, innovative and edgy are great ways to describe the club’s environment.

The great thing about Planet Beach Club is that you can easily access it from the major highways such as Sukhumvit Road. The only way to describe it is you are amidst the hot and humid, and sometimes challenging, motorways of Pattaya, and then you are launched into a heavenly state teetering on Nirvana just a few minutes later. It’s like being catapulted directly into another dimension.

Sample an uplifting coffee or Italian ice cream in the onsite coffee shop, or find yourself a beautiful beach-fashion item at the club’s shop. Whatever you are looking for, Planet Earth Beach Club has got it.

Make that special pilgrimage to Jomtien and absorb the exotic setting and five-star atmosphere of Pattaya’s most talked about and newest beacon of happiness and good vibrations. Open up a brave new avenue of fun and style at Planet Earth Beach Club and trip the light fantastic.

Planet Earth beach Club

Jomtien Beach Road, Soi 15 Jomtien, Pattaya, Chonburi Website: www.planetearth.in.th/en/

Take a dip in the pool, go for a swim or relax in the Jacuzzi. Enjoy your favorite drink at the bar or spend time with your friends on a private lounge bed. Pamper yourself with a massage or cool down in the chill-out area.

Kick back on the VIP deck that flanks the main pool with sun-loungers available for 6 up to 10 people. The vantage points from here are mesmerizing, meaning you can people-watch and take in the stunning surroundings by simply moving your head. Enjoy the best in music with live band performances, and sultry shows by professional dancers. Maybe you like to sit back and relax while nibbling away on tasty snacks and listening to the best international DJs, treating your eardrums to an PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by day

Pattaya by day

example, the southern provinces have more Muslim and Malay influences, and their proximity to water makes seafood a larger part of the cuisine.

This is in contrast to the Isaan region of the northeast, which has seen more Chinese, Vietnamese and especially Lao influence that can be seen in the area’s food, culture and even the appearance of the people.

The northern and central regions are distinct in their own way as well, and the Pattaya Floating Market is able to capture some of these distinctions that make Thailand so unique. Pattaya itself is considered part of the central region, and this is the culture that is dominant in the area.

The market offers not only food but also a wide variety of handicrafts and cultural items, in addition to the sort of clothes and souvenirs that can be found at any local market in the region. There are frequent buses to the floating market or visitors can take a taxi or tuk-tuk.

Walking on Water at Pattaya Floating Market

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f you want to experience a real slice of Thai life, visiting a local market will give you a fascinating insight into what makes the people tick. Indeed, markets in Thailand have long been not just a place to buy food, but also akin to a social gathering. Any man with a Thai girlfriend knows that it would take Richard Branson less time to circumnavigate the western world in a re-jigged weather balloon than it does for a Thai person to go to market and get back home.

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Every region of Thailand has its own special local delicacies, greatly differing from village to village, town to town, city to city. Wouldn’t it be great if all markets from every region in Thailand were all under one roof so you could see them all in one visit? Well, guess what? The Pattaya Floating Market is one such venue that combines the essence of market life from every region of the nation.

Floating markets have a long history in Thailand.

In older times, when canals and rivers were the

primary modes of transportation, Thai cities and villages of all sizes would house floating markets, as travelling and local merchants would offer their wares from boats, paddling up to people on the water’s edge and selling food and goods.

At Pattaya Floating Market, this tradition is still very much alive and well.

The market includes aspects and cultural tidbits from the four main regions of Thailand: the central plains, the south, the northeast (Isaan), and the north. These four regions are all very much distinct from one another, blending together to form what is today the Thai nation.

Historically, these areas have experienced a wide variety of influences and changes that have made a great impact on their culture and daily life. For

A favorite activity of many visitors is to rent a boat and cruise around the market, taking in the sights and sounds and smells of this unique cultural institution. The boats are called ‘long-tail boats’, and will have a large motor turning a propeller on a long pole, which the driver will use to steer.

They can be a bit loud but are ubiquitous along Thailand’s waterways and riding one is something of a cultural experience in and of itself. For those feeling a little less adventurous, there are also more comfortable options for seeing the market at water level or one could always walk around and take in the market on dry land.

Pattaya Floating Market Address: 451/304 Moo 12, Sukhumvi-Road Pattaya Nongprue, Banglamung Tel: +66(0)8-6313-7595 Email: info@pattayafloatingmarket.com Website: www.pattayafloatingmarket.com PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by day

Pattaya by day

THE ART OF HAGGLING

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By Alan Wass

on Thai Markets

he art of haggling has existed since the dawn of creation, as far back as ancient Mesopotamia and beyond. Now you know why Middle-Eastern people are so adept at battering down the prices of everything. They invented this game and have a couple of thousand year’s head start on the rest of us. In the Western world, we go to a shopping center, see what we like, check the price and pay the fee. We are very simple in the ways of consumerism, so it’s only understandable that we struggle on the markets of Thailand to haggle down the prices to something within the realms of affordability. But don’t let that deter you. Let Pattaya City Life school you in the ways of haggling on Thai markets to capture that bargain item. #1 - Knowing what you want Knowing what you want in life is one of the things that hold human kind back. We just don’t know

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what we want, so we drift along through time and space on this watery ball going from one thing to the next. Know what you want and go for it. Visiting a Thai market not knowing what you want will result in you purchasing a myriad of useless trinkets such as pieces of wood that sound like frogs, grotesque hill tribe garments and similar unwanted paraphernalia, which at the time seemed like a good idea. See what you want, know how much you want to pay for it, and go right for the jugular! #2 - don’t pay the first price you are quoted Standard practices of Thai market traders are to firstly offer you a vastly inflated price for an item.

Don’t be offended, you are seen as a rich person.

Surely that should give us a false sense of grandeur, which always feels good. The traders are especially insightful at smelling out fresh meat. The simple way to deal with this is to immediately slash the offer by two thirds. This will send out a clear

message that you are not to be messed with.

Playfully bounce the prices off the trader until you both come to an acceptable compromise. Although the language barrier can sometimes get in the way, the language of money is universal. #3 – Keep it light hearted You would be surprised how many times I have seen full-scale arguments over the smallest amounts of money between traders and tourists.

Getting the best deal is important, but please keep it light-hearted at all times. Always keep a smile on your face and control the situation with banter as opposed to aggression. Remember that this is their livelihood and they are just trying to feed their kids, their family and an extended entourage that would make Puff Daddy feel inadequate. If you are losing your cool, take a break from haggling and come back at a later date. #4 - Walk away if you have to One of the main maneuvers we have in our arsenal to ensure the traders know you have made your final bid is to simply walk away in the middle of the discussion. If the trader tries to chase you down the street agreeing to your last offer – you know you it’s a good bargain and purchase it

immediately. If they don’t call you back, there are another 324,584 markets to choose from.

You have the power; always remember that when haggling on the market. If you stand strong, hold your ground, always keep a smile on your face and know what you want, you will be going home with a vast choice of bargain items to remember your Thailand holiday for the rest of your lives.

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Pattaya by day

Pattaya by day

Luxury Cruises in

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hen on holiday, we like to push the boat out, excuse the pun, and do all the things we dream about when working through the monotonous hours of daily life back home in the land of grayness. We scrimp and save so we can savor those special moments when the universe aligns to make our dreams reality. Visiting Pattaya is something special by itself, but imagine booking a luxury cruise around the dreamlike islands of the Gulf of Thailand.

I was very fortunate this week to ‘live the dream’, experience a special slice of Pattaya and the Gulf of Thailand not often seen, by partaking in a luxury boat cruise courtesy of Pattaya Boat Charter. The company has been built around trust, quality, high service standards and obviously the beautiful islands in and around the Gulf.

With over 10 years experience I was immediately at ease as the skipper, if they still call them that, skillfully slalomed his way through the waves on our outbound cruise that started off at headquarters, otherwise known as Ocean Marina. Our first stop, Koh Rin, took approximately 40 minutes where we anchored off shore and snorkeled around the local corals. There is also a ship wreck

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the Gulf of Siam

nearby for those more adventurous, although I would’ve looked rather strange hunting for treasure in my armbands.

master suite and living/entertaining areas to rival any condominium, perfect for corporate entertaining or a luxury charter.

Whether you want to get out there and do a spot of fishing, steal a few romantic Robinson Crusoe-esque moments in deserted locations, get your PADI instructor qualifications or you just want to explore the surrounding islands and have a nautical experience to remember, then Pattaya Boat Charter is the one for you.

Other boats available are the Rhumba, which is a luxurious 52’ Sailing Catamaran, equipped with full music system, electric toilets and comfortable seating both inside and outside; the 67-foot Ice Party Catamaran that has been designed to accommodate large groups for corporate functions and private parties. The most unique boat in their fleet, and in Pattaya, is Lady Anita, which is a sailing yacht like no other. Set over 89-feet, the yacht is built for comfort in mahogany, and comes with full safety equipment, entertainment facilities, loads of water toys and spacious open decks.

Next we headed over to Koh Kram, which really blew my socks off. It was like being beamed up Star Trek-style to the dreamy and crystal clear waters of Southern Thailand. It was something that you would expect to see in and around Krabi or the Phi Phi Islands – truly remarkable. I was informed that tours including Koh Kram can only be enjoyed at certain times of the year as the Thai Navy use the island for several months to rear and conserve the local sea turtles.

Pattaya Boat Charter’s boats are new, custom designed and maintained to the highest standards.

Although we went out on their speedboat, the company has lots of vessels available such as the largest Thai-built super yacht called the Golden Boy, set over 90 feet with 3 guest cabins, a huge

recommend Pattaya Boat Charter. With private charters that start at only 21,000THB including transfers, fresh fruit, soft drinks and water and use of fishing and snorkeling equipment, it’s a win-win equation every time. All aboard!

Pattaya Boat Charter Ocean Marina Na Jomtien 20150

English: 087 132 3566 Russian: 083 476 8732 Thai: 087 121 8292 Email: niki@pattayaboatcharter.com Website: www.pattayaboatcharter.com

We finished off the day by visiting the infamous Monkey Island where some of the girls on the boat where submerged by primates… and I am not talking about the other guys on the trip! This is a real fun island where you get to feed the vast plethora of monkeys that make the island there home. Unfortunately, we had to head back to Ocean Marina and back to the ‘real’ world.

If you are on holiday in Pattaya, or an expat living here with aquatic tendencies, we strongly PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by day

t l e e F he

Rush at Pattaya

Bungy Jump

F

eel the rush, experience the thrill, take the bull by the horns and make it obey.

If you are a thrill-seeker looking to push the boundaries when on holiday in the region, Pattaya Bungy Jump on Soi 9 of Thepprasit Road is the only route to take. Established as far back as 1989, and with over 50 thousand jumpers over the course of the past 20+ years, and with a 100% safety record, Pattaya Bungy Jump is the place you go every time.

With the highest bungee jump in Pattaya, standing at a majestic 60 meters high and jump masters with combined experience of over 25 years, and full insurance coverage, there is not another bungee jump company in Pattaya that can compare.

Safety is the number one priority at the park, adhering to the guidelines published by the Standards Association of New Zealand (SANZ) and also by the British Elastic Rope Sports Association (BERSA) to bring you the safest bungee experience around.

Everyone likes videos and photos of their experience to not only capture the moment forever, but also

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Pattaya rEstaUrants

PATTAYA RESTAURANTS in this sECtiOn ... > Bruno’s Restaurant & Bar > Voodoo Restaurant & Pub in Jomtien > The Punch & Judy Pub > The Lion Pub > 5 of the Best Restaurants in Pattaya

for bragging rights when you get back to your home country. Most bungee jump companies will offer pictures and a helmet camera POV video that doesn’t really hit the spot, however, at Pattaya Bungy Jump; they have the latest state-of-the-art helicopter drone so you can actually see yourself jumping in the video, almost like an out-of-body experience.

Set in the heart of Pattaya ensures that wherever you are in the city, you are less than 10-minutes away. Alongside being the best and safest bungee jump in Pattaya, the park is also home to other high-octane adventures such as Go-carts, Paint Ball, Off Road Buggies and ATVs. For that one-stop-shop, adrenalin-filled experience, Pattaya Bungy Jump is the quintessential establishment to visit.

Pattaya bungy Jump

248/10 Moo12,Thepprasit Road Soi 9 Banglamung, Pattaya 20150 Phone: 038 301 209 Mobile: 0871 335 288 Website: www.pattayabungyjump.com PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Beef Rossini

Above: Prawn Salad

Right: Salmon >

A Great Reputation Bruno’s Restaurant and bar is managed by owner Fredi who comes from the Landmark Hotel in Bangkok before moving to Pattaya, where it is now a well-established fine dining experience.

Originally located in North Pattaya for 7 years the latest location has garnered a reputation for locals and visitors seeking a first class International dining menu that makes an exceptional treat from even the most devoted lovers of Thai and fine dining cuisine.

Signature dishes Bruno’s is famous for their signature dishes of lamb rack, Angus and Kobe steak. Also the Goose Liver which is pan fried and their Alaskan Scallops, although the full range of menu items extends to nearly a hundred dishes. Visitors to Bruno’s are known for returning time and again to experience the terrific food that aims to deliver a reliable standard of high quality dining. The lamb rack is twice cooked giving it a tenderness and succulence appreciated by those who demand the highest standards of cuisine.

Bruno’s Restaurant & Bar

Classic Fine Dining 24

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The Lounge bar The lounge bar serves as a great place for people to meet and enjoy beverages and snacks. There’s no need to eat in the main restaurant, so guests can enjoy a glass of wine or some lovely snacks from an extensive menu including Sashimi, Canapés, Skewers and Tapas style Fried Onion Rings as well as Shrimp, Squid and Oysters. The lounge bar serves as an ideal place for a lunch meeting with Wi-Fi available and free use of a computer, for those wishing to connect to the outside world. Bruno’s lounge bar performs well as a meeting place for business associates to gather, or like a typical hotel lounge bar, a place to unwind and take in the day.

décor & Setting The entrance to Bruno’s bar and restaurant sets up the mood for a nights’ fine dining. The elegantly lit entrance is spacious and inviting. Once inside the expansive lounge bar provides a setting for people who don’t wish to dine in the restaurant. The design is modern and arranged to provide a full view of the interior and guests. The layout provides an opportunity for those who like people-watching or even meeting new folks while lingering over a freshly mixed cocktail. The restaurant itself is a little cozier and modestly lit, allowing for a more intimate fine dining experience in a smart, chichi and modern setting. Guests will find the ambience an ideal place for a romantic get together or a destination for old friends to join together over exquisite fine dining. opening Times Bruno’s is open for lunch at 12 o clock midday until 2.30pm, but if guests wish to stay on, it’s no problem as the restaurant works double-shifts allowing guests to stay on all afternoon. There’s a different a la carte menu at lunchtime, that is smaller and lighter than the evening, it’s also less expensive if customers opt for the set-lunch which is modestly priced and provides excellent value.

Location Bruno’s is located on Thappraya Road at Chateau Dale Plaza.

Tel. 038 364600-1 or Mobile 081 861 5612 Fax 038 364602

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garnering a fantastic reputation as the place to go in Jomtien when seeking out a fun and friendly atmosphere with an eclectic selection of both Thai and International cuisine dishes, expertly prepared and cooked by excellently trained chefs.

Voodoo is a place that people visit to hang out with friends, play a few games of pool on the Brunswick pool table whilst gazing out towards the beauty that is Jomtien Beach and the Gulf of Thailand beyond.

Cuisine Corner

With a great selection of starters, Voodoo salads, signature grilled mains, Thai curry dishes, burgers, spicy Thai salads and pasta dishes, there is something for everyone, even if you are bringing along your Thai friends to have a great night out.

Voodoo Restaurant & Pub in Jomtien

I

t seems as each year goes by, the masses are becoming more interested in a vast array of cuisine styles from all over the world. This is probably due to an increase in travel, which broadens the mind, and the large selection of reality-TV chef programs inspiring home cooks to be more confident in the kitchen. All of this means that every restaurant now has to live up to high standards as the normal person on

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the streets has become more educated, almost like amateur food critics. If you are seeking that special restaurant in the region that passes the taste-test every time, the Voodoo Restaurant in Jomtien is right up your culinary side-street.

Located on the south-side of Jomtien Beach Road, just a stone’s throw from Chaiyapruk Road, Voodoo Restaurant, first established in 2012, is

Alongside the food, there is a wide choice of beverages available such as imported beers, cocktails, wines and spirits.

If you are seeking that one-stop-shop that has it all in terms of atmosphere, location, delicious food, friendliness and style, Voodoo Restaurant in Jomtien is a recommended choice that will keep you coming back for more, time and time again.

voodoo Restaurant Jomtien

131/50 Moo 12, Soi Chaiyapreuk 1, Nong Prue, banglamung, Chonburi, 20150 Phone: 080 633 9729 Website: www.voodoojomtien.com Email: voodoojomtien@hotmail.com Working hours: 10am until Midnight Closed on Mondays PattayaCityUncovered.com

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satisfaction in offering their customers a fine Roast Dinner as a specialty each Sunday starting from 12pm midday. The restaurant is well known for putting on one of the finest and most sumptuous roasts in Pattaya including the four essential carved meats of Lamb, Beef, Chicken or Pork, along with all your favourite trimmings and using locally grown ingredients that are fresh and seasonal.

The Punch & Judy Pub has an impressive selection of super clear wide screen TVs dotted throughout the pub displaying all your favourite and most loved sports. These include Premiership Football, Rugby, Australian Football (AFC), Tennis, Golf, Formula 1, Cricket and more. Just ask if they don’t have on display what you wish to watch. Also for the more proactive customer, they have a well-kept and professional style pool table for you to enjoy with your friends.

In the third quarter of 2014, the Punch & Judy Pub will offer guest rooms for visitors and tourists to Pattaya alike. Keep an eye on their website for more information as we approach the second half of the year for more details.

T

he Punch & Judy Pub in Pattaya on Thepprasit Road have worked hard to achieve an atmosphere and ambience of a proper English Pub. Great care has been taken to use the fixtures and fittings of a traditional English tavern as well as through the selective use of British art and artifacts dotted around the Inn. They also have a large outside beer garden for those who like to watch the world go by during milder Thai weather.

The heart of an authentic style English Pub is a good selection of quintessentially British draught beers and beverages. The Punch & Judy Pub has a refreshing and hearty range of cold imported draughts including Magners Cider, Guinness Stout, Stella, Heineken, Tiger, OLD Speckled Hen and Boddingtons. A range of drinks this extensive is difficult to find assembled anywhere else in Pattaya.

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oPENING TIMES

Many pubs in Thailand are a little restricted on their range of cold bottled beers from the fridge.

However, a fuller selection than normal is on offer at the Punch & Judy, for those who may be weary of the usual two or three bottled beer brands on offer elsewhere.

Great pride is taken in providing delicious and authentic English meals; although the international visitor can rest assured the Punch & Judy menu includes full main courses of English, European and Thai food. Daily specials are created from Monday through to Sunday, seven days a week for those looking to taste the chef’s unexpected daily cuisine creations. Food is available from 9am to 11pm every day and includes the Great British Breakfast as well as a la Carte Menu.

& LoCATIoN

The Punch & Judy traditional Engl ish Pub is open every da y from 9am till la te.

They are easily located betwee n Pattaya Third Road and Thepprasit Soi 8, 62/191 Moo 10, Nongpr ue, banglamung.

Telephone 038 41 3 255 Website: www.p unchandjudy.co .th/

No pub can claim to be fully English without a weekly Sunday Roast. The Punch & Judy take great PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Live

sports

and International Food satellite TV system with channels that include the SKY Racing channel, you can also watch live EPL Football, all the major UFC and boxing events, golf, tennis and every other live sporting event happening around the world.

S

ince the dawn of civilized society, the male of the homo-sapien species has reveled in watching sporting events, always have done even as far back as ancient Athens that saw the creation of the first Olympic Games. Thousands of years may have passed, however, our thirst for live sports is now at fever pitch, but in this day and age we like to watch our sports with a cold beer in hand with other likeminded individuals in a warm and embracing atmosphere.

This is why establishments such as the Lion Pub in Pattaya were conceived, to create that special oasis where we can get away from the stresses of life, or the wife, and cheer on our sporting teams and heroes with revelry and gusto.

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The best thing about the Lion Pub is that it’s also a great place to take your wife or girlfriend, as the choice of international and Thai food is excellent.

And if you are a single guy looking for some new friends or a bit of female companionship for the evening, this is your place. The selection of hostess girls have been trained to leave you be unless you want to talk to them of course. So there will be no hassles or troubles here.

Located on Thepprasit Soi 8 and/or Third Road Soi 17 (depending which way you go), The Lion Pub is like a gleaming oasis in the middle of a desert, offering sumptuous British/Aussie cuisine, draft beers such as Heineken and Magners Cider and a total of thirteen 51-inch flat-screen televisions showcasing the best of live world sports as they happen, all within a large and spacious bar area with air-conditioning.

The food menu has a great combination of Thai and International dishes, cooked with love and seasoned with delight. Choose from a sumptuous selection of burgers, pasta dishes, delicious appetizers and steaks. The choices of gut-busting English breakfasts are served from 8am to 2pm every day; although the kitchen is open until midnight. With an excellent Thai food menu, as we said before, this is a great place to bring along your Thai girlfriend to enjoy the food and atmosphere.

Lots of my mates always ask me where they can watch AFL and NRL games in a boisterous and exuberant atmosphere. Well boys, the Lion Pub was created just for guys like you, showing all the featured AFL and NRL matches simultaneously, including the Super 15s. With a state-of-the-art

Lee and Simon, who both manage the bar, are extremely friendly and always on hand to help you out in any way possible, whether it’s just local knowledge or the sporting events you want to see. Maybe you are

looking for great value-for-money accommodation, and with the adjoining Liberty Mansions Guest House next door, Simon or Lee can hook you up with a great price. To find out more about Liberty Mansions Guest House, you can visit: www.libertymansion.com/ For that special oasis of sport, food, alcohol, friendliness and camaraderie, the Lion Pub in Pattaya is a sports bar that will keep you coming back for more, day after day.

Lion Pub Pattaya

Thepprasit Soi 8 and/or Third Rd Soi 17 Phone: (038) 301 033 Website: www.lionpubpattaya.com/ OPENING HOURS BAR: 8am - Late KITCHEN: 8am - Late

Pattaya rEstaUrants

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of the Best Restaurants in Pattaya

Linda’s

Linda’s Restaurant Linda’s restaurant is easily one of the finest Scandinavian restaurants in town, serving international cuisine and specializing in classic Norwegian dishes, courtesy of its namesake and charming host Linda Eiksund. Linda’s Restaurant offers spacious and elegant décor that compliments the thoughtful and delicious menu. Visitors to Pattaya who are waning on their appetite for Thai food may wish to try some classic Norwegian meals such as Kjøttkaker med kålstuing, riflet makaroni, brun saus, rørte tyttebær, kokte poteter og flatbrød (Meatballs with creamed cabbage, grooved macaroni, gravy, cranberries, boiled potatoes and flatbread).

Linda’s Restaurant Address: 315/177-180 Moo 12, opposite Jomtien Complex. Theppraya Road, Jomtien.

Open seven days from 7 a.m. until late.

Tel: Reservations: 038 252 726, 087 813 0115, www.lindasrestaurant.com

With all the celebrity chef reality TV programs we see on television these days, it is hardly surprising that most people have become amateur food critics. We have more interest in restaurants and cuisine than ever before. Pattaya has a fantastic selection of eateries, so Pattaya City Uncovered has found five of the best restaurants in Pattaya, so you can dine in the knowledge that you are going to get a high quality meal.

Casa Pascal Casa Pascal was opened to great fanfare in March 2001 by the eponymous owner Pascal after his marriage to Kim. The restaurant is located on Pattaya South Second road and is striking in its size and fresh open feel. Pascal’s menu is deliberately eclectic covering a wide range of delicious meals from both Asian and Western Cuisine. The restaurant has a solid reputation as a breakfast, lunch and brunch destination, with particular attention to the first class Bavarian 32

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brunches. In the evening Casa Pascal transforms into a gourmet fine dining establishment, with signature dishes such as pan fried goose liver on potato pancakes with chives, scallops in lobster sauce, Wiener schnitzel and so much more.

Casa Pascal Address: 485/4 moo 10, South Pattaya, Second Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Pattaya City, City Centre, 20150 Phone: +66-( 0)38 723 660 +66(0) 85 992 04 82

Punch and Judy Punch and Judy is a quintessential British puppet show with its roots in Italian comedy art. The Pub in Pattaya is an authentic British venue that conveys the visitor from the outside Asian world into a familiar tavern setting, offering hearty British meals and thoughtfully selected fixtures and fittings from a continent away. Punch and Judy has garnered a terrific reputation for offering a range of British draft beers and beverages along with a classic English menu including one of the best English breakfasts available on the Thai Riviera (Pattaya).

Punch & Judy Address: 62/191 Soi 8 Moo 10, Nongprue, Banglamung, 20150, Thailand +66 38 413 255

Mantra Restaurant & bar The Mantra Restaurant is arguably one of the finest dining experiences in Pattaya. Part of the Amari Ocean Pattaya complex, located on North Pattaya Beach Road, the Mantra Restaurant has the solid backing of an international group and the scale to offer just that little bit more than most restaurants.

For example the open kitchens include Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Indian, Western, Mediterranean and Gourmet Seafood, and allow the customer to make their selection before heading back to their table which can include the themed Hedonists Harlem, Opium Den, Sultan’s table, Main Theatre or Opera Seats.

Mantra Restaurant & Bar Address: 240/2 Pattaya Beach Road, Pattaya 20150 Tel. +66 (0) 3841 8418 Fax. +66 (0) 3841 8410 Moonlight Fine dining Restaurant Moonlight Restaurant is the latest fine dining venue in Pattaya. Discretely located in View Talay Condominium 7, near Jomtien Beach off Thappraya Rd, Moonlight was opened in February of this year (2014) and offers a level of intimacy, quality and service that only a deluxe restaurant with five tables inside and five tables outside on the terrace can offer. Attention to detail is the most striking element in this restaurant for those who have experience of wining and dining in the best venues around the world. The menu includes a la carte French, Italian, Seafood, Steakhouses, Thai and Vegetarian. Keep an eye out for this restaurant to take an early lead as one of the finest dining experiences in Pattaya and Jomtien.

Moonlight Address: Moonlight Fine Dining Restaurant, View Talay Condominium 7, 505/18 Moo 12, Jomtien, Pattaya.

Nongprue, Banglamung Chonburi 20150 info@moonlightpattaya.com +66(0) 852 777 745 PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya living

PATTAYA LIVING in this sECtiOn ... > Legends Pool & Sports Bar > Buying the Right Property Insurance Policy at the Right Price > Marrying a Thai National > The Future of Pattaya Golf Tours

Green valley/St Andrews golf course - see page 44 PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya living

L

egends Pool Hall in Pattaya is the latest and newest pool and spectator sports bar in the Pattaya area. It was opened in March 2013 with the express purpose of providing a state of the art spectator sports, pool and darts environment for the sports-obsessed clientele in the region looking to enjoy fabulous viewing and playing facilities in a comfortable environment.

Legends Pool Hall offers 11 pro tournament tables that are Brunswick 9ft models. These are spaced evenly inside the venue to ensure the maximum pleasure and comfortable cue action for participants who love to play pool on the best and most professional surfaces available on the planet. Once you’ve played on a Brunswick table you’ll notice the difference and specifically enjoy the uniform experience that all tables provide compared to smaller bars where different tables offer a variable playing experience.

Whether you are a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the sport of pool, Legends Pool Hall welcomes all standards of player to enjoy their gleaming tables and friendly inviting environment.

In the middle of the hall there are three tournament tables with tournament sized pockets for the more accomplished players to use and which provide a little more of a challenge than the standard sized pockets we encourage for use by beginners and intermediate players.

Legends Pool Hall offers pool coaching lessons for the new or intermediate player to improve their game. Even long time players can benefit from a few lessons in how to play more strategically and improve their cue action up to a professional level.

Accuracy and positioning are the name of the game in pool and Legends has just the advice you need to raise your game a notch or two.

The pool hall aims to provide an exciting pool playing environment that leaves a memorable impression whether visiting for a tournament or turning up with a few friends to rack up a few tables of pool. Don’t feel too shy to come along if you are alone, as there are usually a few people waiting around that would appreciate a game on

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a spare table.

The pool bar takes a central location for easy action to keep guests and players fully refreshed with a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Comfortable seating is provided separately but close to the pool tables, so visitors and guests alike can enjoy watching either the pool games or their favorite sports on the wide screen televisions.

Legends provides several wide screen TVs that are 17” x 51” plasma screens for your viewing pleasure and a focus is on the international sports highlights and matches of the day from around the world whether that is football, Olympics or other

favorite sporting events.

A dedicated darts area with four Oches (darts throwing lines) has been designed to accommodate local and national competitions. The Thailand Darts Association has already held and event there with rave reviews about the comfortable and splendid darts throwing environment.

Location Legends Pool Hall is located on 342/10 Pattaya Klang 5 Phone 089 817 1084 or for reservations 038 412 955 info@legendspoolpattaya.com PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Buying the right property insurance policy at the right price

B

uilding, contents and Condo; three types of insurance you really cannot afford to be without. Rebuild cost, value of contents & personal items are what makes up the typical “All Risks” property policy – whether it be for house or condo. Finding a suitable policy the same basic principles apply when buying any product: make the most of a competitive market by shopping around via a Broker and, when it comes to renewal, read the policy to make sure it offers the cover you need, and be aware of the excesses and exclusions.

What are the key factors to be aware of when buying property insurance, and how can you save money when you come to buy?

Open 11am - 3am

Call for your free 2014 menu

YOUR PROPERTY

House insurance If you buy a house you should take out insurance to cover the full replacement cost of the building (which is quite different from the amount it is worth on the market). For example, a house valued at 10 million baht, may not actually cost 10 million to rebuild. The cost of the land will be a major portion of the house value, therefore when valuing a building for insurance purposes, the cost of the land needs to be deducted. A good guide is to calculate the size of the building (in sqm) and multiply by the latest per sqm building cost.

Therefore, a 100 sqm house at say 20,000 baht per sqm, would have an insurance rebuild value of 2.0 million baht. Obviously, the rebuild cost varies, but this is a good guide.

As well as the structure of the building, this insurance covers permanent fixtures such as baths and toilets, kitchen cupboards and interior decoration. You will be covered for damage to your home by events such as fire, falling trees and subsidence, lightning, water leaks and theft. You should be aware that in general ‘flooding’ which is different to ‘water damage’ is NOT covered in the standard policy, therefore this needs to be added as an extension.

Contents insurance Whether or not you own your own home, it is sensible to insure your possessions against fire, theft, weather damage and other risks. Standard policies cover furniture, clothes and other belongings in the home. You should list all items

that have a value above 15-20,000 baht. If you don’t and you make a claim, the insurer may not pay out the full value.

If you have specific valuables to be insured, for example, jewelry, important documents, antiques etc, these need specific cover, which is rarely part of the standard insurance package.

Although typically one does not need to list items unless they are over 50k it is always a good idea to list electrical items of a lower value e.g. TV’s, Home Theatres etc, Additionally make a note of any serial and model numbers.

Condominiums Condominiums are different than houses in so far the structure of the building is already insured (or should be, check !) by the Condominium Management. However you are responsible for all and everything inside your walls including any damage you may do to Third Parties e.g. water leakage to the unit below.

Reducing your premiums The obvious way is to use an Insurance Broker.

They will provide a range of quotations to suit your requirements. Some choose to go to a particular insurance company direct, in the belief they will get a better deal. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work like that. Not only do you lose the benefit of choice, brokers can more often than not get you a lower price, plus the added benefit of someone on your side when it comes to making a claim.

For ALL your INSURANCE needs Tel: 038 415 795-6 info@aainsure.net

www.aainsure.net

Motor $ Health $ House $ Condo $ Motorcycle $ Travel Personal Accident $ Yacht $ SME $ Shop $ Liability

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Pattaya living

Pattaya living Conditions for entering into betrothal and marriage agreement 1. Both parties must be at least 17 years of age.

A court order would otherwise be needed.

2. Neither party is insane.

3. Both parties are not in blood relations by direct ascendant or descendant line 4. Both do not have the same adoptive parents.

5. Neither party has a spouse at the time of the marriage.

Marrying a Thai National By: Magna Carta Law Office

M

arriage Dowry is still an integral part of modern Thai marriage customs and is considered absolutely normal.

Foreign nationals intending to marry a Thai woman are also expected to honor the Thai Dowry System. Traditionally, the groom will be expected to pay a dowry or sinsod to the family, to compensate them in exchange of the hands of their daughter and to prove that the groom is financially capable of taking care and supporting their daughter. There are many factors that determine how much the sinsod will be and they include the age of the woman, dependents, previous marital status, education level, job, and the status of her family in the community. In some cases, well-to-do Thai families return the dowry to their daughter or to the couple to help them start their new life.

Thai marriages can be solemnized with or without an engagement or a Betrothal Ceremony in ritual manner or through court. Betrothal is not valid until the man gives an engagement property to the woman called “Khongman� which shall be the property of the woman after the betrothal has taken place.

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If the woman is a widow or is divorced, the marriage can only take place after expiry of 310 days from her husband’s death or termination of the marriage.

The exceptions are when: 1. A child was born during this time; 2. The divorced couple are re-marrying; 3. There is a court order allowing the woman to marry; 4. There is a certificate from a doctor in a Thai hospital to state that the woman is not pregnant.

After the betrothal has taken place, if either party commits a breach of the betrothal agreement, such party shall be liable to make compensation. In case the woman commits a breach of the betrothal agreement or where there is an essential event happening to the betrothed woman that makes the marriage to the woman unsuitable, the man is entitled to renounce the betrothal agreement and the woman shall return the Khongman to the man.

In case where there is an essential event happening to the betrothed man that makes marriage to the man unsuitable, the woman is entitled to renounce the betrothal agreement and the Khongman need not to be returned to the man. If the marriage does not take place causing mainly from the woman or on account of any circumstances that makes the woman responsible for making the marriage unsuitable for the man or for making the man unable to marry that woman, the man may claim the return of the Sinsod.

Compensation may be claimed as follows: 1. for injury caused to the body or reputation of the man or woman; 2. for appropriate expenses or debt incurred in good faith by the betrothed , his or her parents or a person acting in the capacity of his or her parents in preparation for the marriage; 3. for the damage suffered by the man or woman through having taken appropriate measures affecting his or her property or other affairs relating to his or her occupation or earning in expectation of the marriage.

In case where the woman is entitled to the compensation, the Court may decide that the Khongman which has become her property is the whole or a part of compensation she will receive, or the Court may order for payment of the compensation without regard to Khongman.

PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya living

Pattaya City UnCOvErEd

WHY ADVERTISE IN PATTAYA CITY UNCOVERED? Pattaya City Uncovered offers advertising opportunities to reach the thousands of visitors and local residents who travel to and visit Pattaya. Everyday potential customers are checking into hotels, walking into visitor info centers, supermarkets, bars, restaurants and shopping malls. Pattaya City Uncovered allows potential customers to find you!

We offer you promotional advertising rates to suit your business. All available with 1,3,6 and 12 month contracts, making it easier for you to get a decisive edge over your competitors by being in some of the highest and exclusive tourist traffic areas.

We have 50 brochure stands which we sponsor (10 with TV screens) set out across all of the high traffic tourist areas in Pattaya City, as well as social media and radio advertisement.

So be one step ahead of the competition and advertise with us today!

Rates Full Page

Like to play

Football

in Pattaya?

Welcome to the ThaiGer Team 04

An International Hobby Football Team in Pattaya

We are a very friendly Football Team with players of all ages and from many different countries.

We meet 3 days a week to play Football together in Jomtien, Soi Wat Boonkanjana, Soi 5, opposite the Busaba Houses on an artificial grass pitch. (8 Players a side) We come together every Monday, Thursday and Saturday to play from 4pm to 6pm

For more info just visit us or call 086 15 85 472 42

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www.pattayacityuncovered.com info@pattayacityuncovered.com Tel: 0829 374 928 PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya living

Pattaya living < Chipping on 4th hole at Green Valley St Andrews golf course

and many more. The choice is astounding, and with over 20 courses within a 45-minute drive of each other, this is a golf-lover’s paradise. It’s like you died and went to fairway heaven.

Golf for Tourists There is something magical about playing golf in Thailand. Maybe it’s the all-year-round sunny climate, or the affordable green fees, or maybe the amazing hospitality of the courses which are famous for their beautiful caddies and onsite restaurants and spas. In honesty it is probably a mixture of all of the above.

Most avid golfers book their Pattaya golf tours before they even get here. There is a great selection of golf tour agents in the city, ensuring you can simply turn up with your clubs in hand while the agents organizes your green fees, tee-off times and all your taxi transfers to and from the courses.

Recommended golf tour agents in Pattaya: www.pattayagolf.net www.thaigerlinegolf.com www.pattayagolf.com www.thailandgolfholidays.com

The Future of Pattaya

W

inston Churchill once said, “Golf destroys a good walk.”

Obviously he was better at winning wars than hitting a 2-iron. Golf tours have become big business across the world, and with participation levels at the highest point ever, one would say this is a renaissance period for the sport. Pattaya is known for many things, but did you know there are over 20 golf courses within a 45-minute drive of downtown? Pattaya golf is the

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future, I’ve tasted it, and boy is it succulent!

There are not many destinations in the world, never mind Asia, which have the total package in regards to a golf tour holiday. With so many great courses of all levels and a perpetual holiday environment that brings you fantastic beaches, jaw-dropping nightlife, restaurants serving cuisine from the four corners of the globe and a wide selection of tourist attractions, it’s hardly surprising that Pattaya is being touted as the ‘next big thing’ on the golf holiday marketplace.

Golf Tours Pattaya Golf Courses The beauty of playing golf in Pattaya is you have so many courses of all design styles, prices and levels. From the immense challenges at Championship courses such as Siam Country Club and Laem Chabang International Country Club to the laid-back and easy-breezy rounds of golf at Emerald GC, Plutaluang Royal Thai Navy Golf Course and Eastern Star GC in Rayong with their amazing value-for-money green fees. Mid-range courses include St. Andrews 2000, Rayong Green Valley, Phoenix GC, Burapha GC, Bangphra GC

Golf for Expats When deciding where to live or retire in the world, Pattaya is a great choice for those expats wanting golf on tap 24/7. The majority of golf expats enjoy living in Rayong, which is just a 30-minute drive from Pattaya, because there are several courses all within a 10-minute drive.

Affordable green fees and value-for-money are the main facets that an expat golfer desires.

Locals take advantage of golf discount cards such as the Pattaya Sports Club card, which allows its members discounted green fees at nearly every course in the region.

You can get your Pattaya Sports Club golf discount card by visiting their office on 3rd road, although we would suggest you visit their website for more details at: www.pattayasports.org/ As you can see, Pattaya golf is bursting from the seams like a German tourist in speedo shorts on Beach Road. If you are already here on holiday and didn’t bring your clubs along but now fancy a round, all courses have club and golf shoe rentals, so what are you waiting for?

PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by night

English Beef & Pork Butchers Probably the longest running English butchers in Pattaya.Yorkies was established in 1999, Norman was a fully qualified English beef and pork Master butcher, who had many years under his belt running his own business in the UK. Eileen also had her own butcher’s shop for 10 years

Yorkies bacon and gammon is traditionally dry cured with no added water. We have several varieties of sausages, and we use only natural casings. True Yorkshire black pudding and traditional roast meats are amongst our specialities. We are always searching for new recipes, we have now produced some new items such as lamb mint & rosemary sausages, pork & black pudding sausages and a roast bacon meat loaf.

PATTAYA

BY NIGHT in this sECtiOn ... > Live Blues Music in Pattaya > Sample the Sweetness of SugarBaby Agogo > Every Time is ike the First Time at Windmill Agogo > Trip the Light Fantastic at The Pier Nightclub > Alcatraz Agogo - Escape from Reality > Paradise is Calling at Pattaya’s Newest Agogo Club > Feel the Vibrations at The Booze Lounge > Oscars Agogo - The Most Unique Agogo in Pattaya > 6 Things That Make a Unique Night Out in Pattaya

We produce a variety of pies and pasties daily, using recipes that have been in the family for over 60 years.

Supplying various outlets & supermarkets around Thailand, we recently introduced our products into Central Festival food hall Pattaya, and are now working with the group to extend our range to other Central food halls throughout Thailand.

TRY OUR TASTER OF THE WEEK where we have samples of our products ‘Try before you buy’ Our retail

shop is open 7 days a week 8 am - 6 pm

Yorkies Pork Platter Co, Ltd. Soi Chaiyapreuk 1. Jomtien

Tel: 038-074686 Fax: 038-074687

Email: yorkiesporkplatter@gmail.com

Pleased to meet you with meat to please you!

The Pier disco Club The ‘coolest club in Pattaya’ see page 54 PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by night

Pattaya by night

LIVE

blues MUsiC T

in Pattaya

he Blues, much like Jazz, is one of the original music styles created by the Afro-American communities in the US, known for its laidback beat, amazing guitar solos and a stark story-telling nature of the trials and tribulations of life itself. It’s art in its purest form. Bringing Blues music directly to the patrons of Pattaya, The Blues Factory, considered by many to be the Number 1 live music venue on the Eastern Seaboard, enjoys a great selection of traditional and modern music, combining together to make a truly excellent night out and live music venue.

They opened their doors in March 2001 with the goal of giving Pattaya’s visitors and residents a new kind of music by the best musicians in a standalone and quality environment. It’s true that the music scene in Pattaya can be narrower than Kat Moss’ waistline, with an absence of eclectic music styles... and this is where The Blues Factory takes it to the next level.

Live music can turn a good night out into a great night. The Blues Factory prides itself on their live bands, and with the recently assembles house band, “The Factory Band”, you are in for a world 48

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of funky fun. This is a new line up featuring the well known Pattaya Guitarist “Yo”, and along with our great drummer and fantastic singers they will have you dancing to quality music ranging from classic Rock to Modern Rock n Roll.

The Factory’s second band features another great new guitarist along with the venue’s famous rock line up, the “The Rock Machine” featuring Pattaya’s hottest Rock musicians, also playing classic and modern rock.

Lastly, The Blues Factory is proud to have Thailand’s greatest rock guitarist, The “Guitar King of Thailand”, known as the one and only Lam Morrison.

So for a wonderful night of entertainment check out The Blues Factory on Soi Lucky Star (just off Walking Street and Marine Plaza), perfect for couples or singles looking for a great hassle free night out.

The blues Factory

Soi Lucky Star (between Walking Street and Marine Plaza) Email: thebluesfactoryco@hotmail.com Phone: 0898 179 613 Eng , 0895 115 777 Thai PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by night

Pattaya by night

Sample the Sweetness of SugarBaby Agogo

I

really have a sweet tooth, and when I can’t find a confectionary store close at hand, I head down to SugarBaby Agogo to quench my unyielding thirst for all things sweet and sugary! SugarBaby is not your archetypal go-go bar, as it’s professionally operated and offers its discerning clientele more than just girls dancing on poles, although we also love that aspect as well.

As one of Pattaya’s newest go-go clubs, open just 16 months, everything is pristine and gleams newness. Offering more than your run-of-the-mill go-go bar, the club not only has beautiful ladies by the boatload, but also 4 LED flat-screen TVs that showcase all major sporting events such as the EPL football on Sky Sports, CTH and Astro. Girls and sport… sounds like the picture-perfect night out!

There are many new and innovative ideas that combine to create such a unique experience. With Japanese-speaking staff, Jacuzzi and a ‘play table’ where the girls sit and you can have your wicked way with them, and even more uniquely, SugarBaby accepts all major credit, debit and company cards, SugarBaby is unlike all the other such establishments in Pattaya.

SugarBaby prides itself on customer services, ensuring you can have a drama-free night out without any unwanted surprises, which really is important when frequenting a go-go bar.

There are three play-stage areas with a constant shower show that will really wet your appetite.

With the sexiest dancers in Thailand, screened and selected for their beautiful looks and ability to interact with customers, you are guaranteed an unforgettable night out.

Please Note: For those seeking out somewhere to hire for stag or birthday parties or similar functions, there is a brand new go-go room available to hire upstairs above SugarBaby Agogo. Please contact the venue for more details.

Located in the throbbing heart of the action on the corner of Soi 14 directly on Walking Street, SugarBaby Agogo is the place you go when you want a guaranteed great night of action with lots of the most beautiful girls around and a great selection of live sports.

‘Like’ SugarBaby on Facebook SugarBaby utilize the latest social media platforms to not only share their newest innovative ideas and promotions, but also to connect and interact with their customers, both long-standing and potential.

To connect with SugarBaby on Facebook, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/ sugarbabyagogopattaya?fref=ts

SugarBaby Pattaya A Go Go Club Soi 14, Walking Street Pattaya, Bang Lamung, 20150

Tel: 0800 168 499 Email: info@sugarbabypattaya.com Website: www.sugarbabypattaya.com 50

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PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by night

Pattaya by night

日本語を喋るスタッフ、 そして日本人マネージャーが在籍 しております。 We have Japanese speakers and a Japanese manager.

T 52

Every time is like the first time at Windmill Agogo

hose of us who live in Pattaya and patronize Walking Street from time to time know only too well that the go-go bar scene can be a bit sketchy at best. You can stroll into a go-go bar that has been quite busy over the past few months and then all of a sudden, it’s just not the same any more. The girls have changed, for the worst, the services can be a shadow of its former self and the atmosphere can be completely different… and not in a good way.

That’s why at Pattaya City Uncovered, we bring you only the hottest, most established businesses where a good night out is guaranteed.

donnas here, just fun, frolicking and a good time enjoyed by all. Windmill has been open for over 10 years, which says a lot about their quality of girls, the way they do business and the exciting atmosphere they have created.

Mentioning Windmill Agogo on Walking Street to any self-respecting go-go bar-fly is met with a twinkle in their eyes, like somebody knows something you don’t. With a motto that says “Pussy without Attitude”, it couldn’t have been described more aptly. No drama-Queens or prima

The bar is owned and run by westerners, for westerners, evolving and adapting to the customer’s wants and desires. And believe me, wants, desires and dreams are all fulfilled here. Newly re-furbished, and with staff that speak many international language such as English, French, German, Japanese

PattayaCityUncovered.com

Located on Soi Diamond, set amidst the pulsating heart of Walking Street, Windmill is known, by those in the know, as the naughtiest go-go bar in Pattaya, which is quite an accolade considering that we are talking about Pattaya here. But in honesty, it is so true. No-where else is the interaction between the girls and customers so wonderful and intense at the same time.

and Thai, there is no communication barrier whatsoever.

long, but also has the most repeat customers of any other go-go bar in Pattaya.

For a decade, Windmill has established itself as a part of Pattaya folklore and legend, building up a strong reputation for beautiful girls with interesting talents, and a fun-filled atmosphere that keeps you coming back time and time again to fulfill your fantasies. This is not just me saying it by the way, take a look at the testimonials on the club’s website and you will start to understand.

Windmill Facebook Alert!

As social media is rapidly becoming the place to interact with businesses, The Windmill Agogo invites you to ‘like’ their FB fan-page to get the latest news and promotions right from the horses’ mouth. To interact with the club and make suggestions please visit: https://www.facebook. com/WindmillClubPattaya?fref=ts

Features such as the Jacuzzi and ‘play tables’ where you can have some hands-on fun with the girls, alongside other nuances such as TV channels that include Sky Sports, CTH and Astro showcasing all major sporting events, you really have the world at your feet. All credit, debit and company cards are accepted here, which is one of the only businesses of this ilk that provides such a service. You can see why Windmill Agogo has not only been around so

The Windmill Club GoGo 29/79, Moo 10, Soi Diamond Pattaya, Chonburi Thailand

Tel: +66 800168499 Website: www.windmillpattaya.com/ PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by night

Pattaya by night

Trip the Light Fantastic at The Pier Nightclub in Pattaya

T

he Pattaya nightlife scene is something magical and hedonistic, awe-inspiring and jaw-droppingly unique and exciting. It’s the sort of city where anything and everything can happen, all within the space of 10-minutes.

You might be one of the world’s most animalistic party people, but if you have never been out at night in Pattaya, then you’ve never experienced it all!

Located in the throbbing heart of Walking Street, The Pier Disco Club, first opened in January 2013,

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has become the ‘place to be’ for the hippest and chicest crowd in Pattaya. Known as the ‘coolest club in Pattaya’, which is quite an accolade by itself, this is a nightclub that showcases the best in European dance music styles and hip-hop, set over three floors, with Thai and International DJs whipping the revelers into an absolute frenzy on a nightly basis.

Not only the most exciting and trendiest club in the city, it’s also the largest. With the latest in lighting and sound system technology, pretty coyote dancers, live shows, nonstop funky music

from top name DJs, and a very large dance floor, it’s a club you go time and time again and it never gets boring.

If you love a disco where partying is the center of the universe in a spacious environment that is much less-crowded than Lucifer and other similar establishments, that is also a great place to enjoy people watching and checking out pretty girls and boys, nothing in Pattaya comes close to The Pier.

The party starts at 10pm every night, so get ready to dance around your handbags, or someone else’s

if you are a man, until 5am in the morning.

For the best disco and party experience in Pattaya, visit The Pier and catapult yourselves amidst the coolest and hippest party center in the city. And guess what? It’s also free to enter!

The Pier disco Club

Address: Walking Street Pattaya Phone: 080 480 6661 Website: www.thepierpattaya.com Opening times: 10am until 5am every night PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by night

Pattaya by night

music, the party is defiantly off the hook every night. There are not many places in Thailand that successfully merge a go-go atmosphere with that of a high-class discotheque and keep you coming back for more every time. You would visit the coliseum when in Rome and the Pyramids when in Egypt, right? Well, you can’t visit Walking Street without a pilgrimage to pay homage to Alcatraz Agogo. drink at Alcatraz, as the magnetic allure and go-go tech atmosphere grips your being and wants you to spend the rest of the night here within its warm and hedonistic embrace.

The hallmark, the gold standard as such for go-go bars, is the quality of girls, atmosphere and the price of drinks. It really is as simple as that. With over 80 drop-dead-gorgeous girls performing feats that defy Isaac Newton’s laws of gravity, cheap draft beer as vast as the Mekong Delta all night long, a prison-themed interior and a throbbing atmosphere full to the rafters, Alcatraz is the place you go for the ultimate Pattaya go-go bar experience.

Alcatraz Agogo

escape S

ome might say that go-go bars in Pattaya are everywhere, and in most cases you would be correct. However, there are some businesses that do it better than everyone, and these are the places to visit; the establishments that last the distance by providing the best services and a guaranteed explosive night out.

Anyone who knows about Pattaya will tell you that Alcatraz Agogo in the pulsating heart of Walking Street takes it to the next level.

As the biggest go-go bar on Walking Street, and also the only themed go-go in Pattaya, the Alcatraz’ catchphrase: “Escape from reality – living the life because you can”, epitomizes the ethos of those visiting Pattaya to live the dream, get away from the rigors of modern day life and lay it all on 56

PattayaCityUncovered.com

Alcatraz is open 8pm until late, set over three levels with pole dancers on the first floor, dancers in caged ‘cells’ on the mezzanine and an opulent and chic, yet intimate, lounge bar on the third floor.

With state-of-the-art audio and visuals effects and DJs playing a great selection of old-school House

Competition Alert!

Alcatraz is all about interaction with their customers, evolving the way they do business to make everything perfect. At the moment, Alcatraz is looking for ideas for drink competitions for their “prison” theme, so if you have any ideas, you can contact them via their Facebook fan page (see below).

Alcatraz is looking for a new logo that will raise their brand awareness and image. So, all you budding graphic design artists and logo creators out there can visit their Facebook fan page with ideas.

Alcatraz Facebook Fan Page: www.facebook.com/ pages/Alcatraz/203812012963009?fref=ts

ALCATRAZ AGoGo

Location: Alcatraz Pattaya GoGo Bar is on Walking Street: between Soi 14 and Soi 15 Website: www.alcatrazpattayagogo.com/ Facebook fan page: www.facebook.com/ pages/Alcatraz/203812012963009?fref=ts

From Reality

the line during their holiday. Work hard and play even harder is a sentiment shared and upheld

by Alcatraz.

Have you ever entered a murky go-go bar, half deserted, with girls older than the New Testament, and thought “what am I doing in here?” This is why establishment such as Alcatraz exist, to cast shame on inferior bars that are simply doing it for the money and not for the enjoyment of the holidaymakers and go-go revelers.

The go-go bar carousel on Walking Street means exactly that: you go to the bar, have one drink, talk to the girls for a few minutes and then move onto the next go-go. You just can’t stay for one PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by night

Pattaya by night

Soi LK Metro in Pattaya. What’s so great about this new go-go bar then, I hear you ask? Well sit back and let me tell you all about it.

“I wanted to create a go-go bar that is a little different from the rest,” said the charismatic Liverpudlian owner, Kieran. His vision is all about creating a go-go that you never want to leave; somewhere addictive, somewhere special, culminating in the ultimate party atmosphere.

How many times have you sat in a go-go, waiting for a woman to give you the time of day, or to be completely submerged by girls all preying on you to buy them a drink? The answer would probably be in most go-go bars!

Paradise Agogo seamlessly manages to create the perfect balance. “I don’t want to sit around by myself in a go-go,” said Kieran. “At Paradise, we encourage our girls to interact with customers, but not to the point where they are too pushy, always asking for drinks.”

Visiting Paradise Agogo is like a real night out with a party atmosphere with the addition of fine go-go girls at every angle. Playing the kind of tunes that create that special vibe, the club is akin to a place you would go for a great night of fun, and defiantly not the run-of-the-mill go-go experience.

Even the exterior of the building gleams like the Holy Grail, and once inside, you will find a modern and chic décor that invites you into its warm and welcoming embrace.

Paradise is calling at Pattaya’s newest agogo Club 58

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W

hen you are a party person in Pattaya, the local go-go scene can become a bit predictable, not quite reaching the boring stage, but you do start to feel that nothing can surprise you anymore. And then, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, you stumble across a new establishment that makes you stand back in awe and reevaluate your whole attitude towards the go-go scene. One of the newest and most certainly one of the best go-go bars in town is Paradise Agogo, located on

“I have over 4 years experience running go-go bars,” said Kieran. “I have tried to take all the best features I have seen in go-go bars across Pattaya and incorporate them into my vision for Paradise Agogo.” It’s true that there is never a dull moment in Paradise, especially when Kieran is around.

When you are in Pattaya and looking for the ultimate night out, make sure you visit Paradise Agogo on Soi LK Metro for the amazing selection of sexy and fun girls, great music, and most importantly of all, a party atmosphere that makes you want to stay all night, which we are sure you will!

PARAdISE AGoGo

Soi LK Metro Email: info@paradiseagogo.com Website: www.paradiseagogo.com/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/paradiseagogopattaya.

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Pattaya by night

Feel the Vibrations at in the heart of Pattaya on Soi LK Metro, and the second one on Soi Khao Talo, in an area known as Pattaya Darkside. “We are creating a brand, so just like when you visit Starbucks, or another well known brand, you know you are going to receive the same familiar vibe, interior design and level of services. The plan is to open several chains of the Booze Lounge right across different locations throughout Thailand.”

The moment you enter the Booze Lounge, you couldn’t be anywhere else. The unique interior is based around the theme of retro art décor with lots of black and white, culminating in an environment that is warm, friendly and addictive.

“Our main emphasis is on providing resident expats, and Thais, with a bar they could call their local. We take lots of time to get on first name terms with our customers, and we believe it’s that personal touch which makes for such an inviting and warm atmosphere,” said Dave.

M

emories of the black & white era of comedy filmmakers such as Laurel & Hardy, Charlie Chaplin and Harold Lloyd had such a massive impact on western culture that we still enjoy and embrace them today decades after they were first created. The Booze Lounge in Pattaya is one such establishment that has conceptualized the theme of those hilarious black and white slapstick comedies and integrated it into the overall theme of their brand.

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The Booze Lounge on Soi Khao Talo has now been open over one year and continues to go from strength to strength. “I wanted to make something a little different on the Darkside,” said Dave. “We have hostess girls in the bar, and they are very friendly, but never too pushy asking for drinks all of the time. We want our guests to be able to come here, relax, enjoy the excellent mix of music from the 60s, 70s and 80s, and basically just have a good time.”

“I wanted to create a brand of bars across Thailand centered around the theme of these old black and white movie comedies,” said local DJ celebrity, Dave D, of Pattaya People Radio fame. There are currently two branches of the Booze Lounge; one

Making your way into the throbbing heart of Soi LK Metro in Pattaya, you will find the newest addition to the Booze Lounge portfolio. Open just 6 weeks, the bar is already making waves and creating a buzz. As the clientele amidst the main strip in Pattaya is slightly different to Khao Talo, this branch of Booze Lounge has live music, Killer Pool Nights (Thursday nights), Ladies Pool Competitions and Cocktail Nights.

When asked about what he enjoys most about running the Booze Lounge, Dave D said,

“Introducing new things to people. Black and white slapstick films are widely known across the western world, but we have Thai couples who come to our bar who had never heard of Laurel and Hardy, but after a short time watching the films on our flat-screen TVs, they become mesmerized by them, which really gives me a buzz.”

Whether you are amidst the heart of Pattaya or over on the Darkside, The Booze Lounge is essential for those that love a friendly place to enjoy the music, vibes and Happy Hour prices that start from 40 THB per beer. Find out what all the fuss is about today.

The Booze Cruise – 24th May, 2014 Those looking for new and exciting ways to party the night away need to check out the first ever Booze Cruise, in conjunction with Pattaya Boat Charter. Taking the seas from 6pm until late, you can step aboard the Foam Party Boat and jig the night away to a selection of music from the 60s, 70s and 80s, affectionately known as ‘Pop on the Sea’. For the price of just 2,000 THB, you get a free bar, free food and free transport. The premier Booze Cruise will take place on May 24, so make sure you contact the bar at the below contact details to book your place today because the places are limited.

Contact details: Telephone: +66 (0)87 747 8555 or +66 (0)89 250 5691 Website: www.boozeloungepattaya.com Make sure you visit The Booze Lounge and ‘like’ their page on Facebook to get the latest news and promotions at: https://www.facebook.com/ BoozeLoungePattaya?fref=ts PattayaCityUncovered.com

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Pattaya by night

The Most Unique Agogo in Pattaya out. I own The Booze Lounge on Soi Buakhao too, and if you go in there, you can see I wanted to make the vibe in a very similar manner.”

Oscars Agogo has special theme nights, twicenightly sexy shows courtesy of the club’s dancers, 70’s and 80’s nights, and an Happy Hour from 7pm until 9pm where you can buy bottled beers starting from 75 THB and draught beer from 69 THB.

I

f you say ‘Oscars’ to people from around the world, they immediately assume you are talking about the shiny golden trinkets given out to those in Hollywood who expertly pretend to be other people for money. However, if you say ‘Oscars’ when you are in Pattaya, it means a completely different thing. Oscars Agogo is set amidst the addictive hustle and Bustle of Soi LK Metro, jutting from out of the concrete like an old-style cinema from the days before ripped-off torrents, MP4s and copy-DVDs meant you never have to leave your home to watch a new movie again.

Local celebrity DJ Dave D, and his business partner Howard Miller, have created a go-go bar that is something a little different from the norm. “From the moment you first set eyes on Oscars from the street, you can see we have designed it as an ode to an old-style cinema building from the 1950s,” said Dave D. “The same concept runs through the entirety of the club with a retro flavor with hanging chandeliers and a friendly atmosphere.”

“The club has a real international flavor,” said Dave. “Although we get the usual clientele from Western-world countries, we also have many visitors from Korea, Hong Kong and other similar Asian countries which make the club’s atmosphere so unique.”

If you want a unique go-go experience, where the design of the club, appearance of the girls and the music are different from the normal run-of-the-mill go-go clubs, Oscars Agogo on Soi LK Metro is one such establishment that comes highly recommended by those who venture inside.

Please make sure you visit and ‘like’ the Oscars Agogo Facebook fan page to get the latest news, gossip and lowdown on upcoming events.

Oscars Agogo, Soi LK Metro

Telephone: 087 747 8555 Facebook: www.facebook.com/oscarspattaya

The combination of stunning females dancing on poles, the retro interior design with neon blue lights shooting out at every angle, a classic selection of music and of course, a friendly and welcoming atmosphere are already becoming famous across the city.

The club has been open for just 5 months, so is currently in its infancy, although the customer base is already widening by the day. “I have been in the nightclub and DJ game for decades,” said Dave.

“I have used all my experience in creating Oscars to make it a place where you go for a great night 62

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6 Pattaya by night

Pattaya rEal EstatE

things that make a unique night out in Pattaya

PATTAYA REAL ESTATE The Cliff

by Nova Group see page 76

By Alan Wass

Did you know that Pattaya has the highest concentration of bars of anywhere else in the world?

Me neither, I just conjured up that ‘fact’ out of the ether on a second’s notice as an ode to my shoddy journalism. However, I have never visited another place with so much going on in such a short space. It’s hardly surprising that there are still Vietnam veterans stumbling around Pattaya in a mind-blown state over 40 years after the war has finished. Most of them don’t even realize the war is over. What makes a night out in Pattaya so unique? Here are 6 reasons why.

#1

Closing Times Generally speaking, bars and clubs around the world usually close between midnight and 2am in the morning. Bars in Thailand are supposed to close at approximately 2am as well, but as Pattaya is its own self-governing republic, you can wander down Walking Street at 5am in the morning and it feels like the evening is just beginning. Be prepared to work the night shift hours when partying in Pattaya. This is the ultimate 24/7 party capital of the world.

#2

So Many different Nationalities When you go on holiday to Spain or some equally famous tourist destination, you usually find quite a lot of nationalities there. However, Pattaya seems to magnetically pull persons from every corner of the globe towards its embracing allure. I have danced around the handbags of Venezuelan females on a team-building seminar, talked Eastern European politics with a Kazakhstani, shared snuff with an iguana-breeder from Papua New Guinea, thrown rocks at ladyboys with a Pakistani-born ex-CIA agent with dubious links to Mossad, gulped aquavit with Mongolian goat herders and performed the moonwalk with Kosovan refugees on Soi 7. Pattaya really is that kind of place to meet some wonderful people from every country and walk of life.

#3

The Coconut bar Did you know you can have a great night out in Pattaya without entering a bar establishment?

Pattaya Beach Road, otherwise known as the Coconut Bar, is littered with all manner of colorful people (see above). It is standard practice to spend an entire evening buying alcohol from 7/11 while trawling down beach road and interacting with 64

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females plying their trade and hawkers selling everything from the latest counterfeit DVDs and CDs to sex toys and e-cigs. Anything can happen at the Coconut Bar, and usually does!

#4

Go-Go bars Is there anything more unique in Pattaya than its go-go bars? I don’t think so! You can find lap-dancing clubs and houses of ill-repute all over the world, but nothing can prepare you for the antics that manifest into reality in Pattaya’s go-go bars. It doesn’t matter if you are a man or woman, or a couple; you have to check out these dens of iniquity on a night out in the city. You would visit the Coliseum when in Rome and the Statue of Liberty when in New York, right?

#5

Ladies of the night Attracting single men in their thousands, Pattaya’s very own special ladies of the night are one of the instrumental reasons for visiting Pattaya. I can’t tell you what hasn’t already been said a million times.

Just have a great time and go for it. Try not to fall in love and you will be fine.

#6

The Third Sex To quote The Kink’s 1960’s pop hit ‘Lola’, “She looks like a woman but talks like a man.” Ladyboys really are a fascinating species, even described as the ‘Third Gender’. Nowhere else in the world accepts transsexuals like in Thailand, and that’s why you see so many of them, not just working the streets, but also with normal jobs working in 7/11 and such. The only problem is that if you are a man (or a woman) seeking some female company for the evening, you might be in for a shock when you peel off the wrapping paper.

It defiantly doesn’t do what it says on the label.

in this sECtiOn ... > Villa Rentals vs Hotels > The New Nordic Love Affair with Pratumnak Hill > Due Diligence on Thai Property Purchase > The Nova Group - Tried, Tested and Trusted PattayaCityUncovered.com

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PRICED AT 6.5 MILL BAHT NEW HOME WITH PRIVATE POOL AND LANDSCAPED GARDENS QUIET AND PEACEFUL LOCATION JUST OFF SOI CHAIYAPRUK 2 ONLY MINUTES FROM THE BEACH LAND SIZE 105 SQW HOUSE SIZE 165 SQM

3 BEDROOMS 3 BATHROOMS

UNFURNISHED

FOR FULL DETAILS AND ARRANGE A VIEWING PLEASE CALL: GARY (ENG) 0865 390 714

PRICED AT 6.8 MILL BAHT NEW HOME WITH PRIVATE POOL AND LANDSCAPED GARDENS QUIET AND PEACEFUL LOCATION JUST OFF SOI CHAIYAPRUK 2 ONLY MINUTES FROM THE BEACH LAND SIZE 105 SQW HOUSE SIZE 165 SQM

3 BEDROOMS 3 BATHROOMS

FULLY FURNISHED

FOR FULL DETAILS AND ARRANGE A VIEWING PLEASE CALL: GARY (ENG) 0865 390 714

Pattaya rEal EstatE

Pattaya rEal EstatE

Villa Rentals vs.

Hotels

The world is changing and evolving – it always has! Regardless of global warming, we were once amidst an ice age and we will be again, with everything evolving and fluctuating in between. The Thailand accommodation market is no different, always reinventing itself and metamorphosing to the needs of the modern day holidaymaker.

With the increased usage of the internet, holidaymakers have more options than ever before, enabling us to thoroughly research a destination for every detail such as location, price and accommodation type. This, in some ways, has opened up the holiday and tourism sector and heavily dented the profit margins of travel agents across the globe and twisted a few noses out of place. because of the changes, more holidaymakers are opting for villa rentals instead of hotels, but that doesn’t mean they are better overall.

Privacy Imagine you are travelling with a group of friends or a large family. Within a rental villa, you can have that special time alone without prying eyes or millions of screaming children (which are not your own) running around causing havoc. Having that quality time with the people you are travelling with is a much better way to spend your holiday time.

Staying in hotels might not provide total privacy,

but when you are on holiday, it’s nice to meet new people, and within a villa you can be a bit isolated from the world.

Facilities You would think that hotels easily outweigh villa rentals with their facilities – but this isn’t necessarily so! What you have to remember is that the vast majority of private villas have their own swimming pools, Jacuzzis, gardens and self-catering kitchen facilities. If you do not wish to cook for yourself, you can simply hire a cook at most villas or eat out like most holidaymakers do. Even though villas have facilities, hotels literally have it all with onsite spas, fitness centers, tour kiosks, swimming pools, restaurants, concierge services and lots of onsite staff to cater for you every whim. Hotels come out at the top every time in terms of facilities.

Personal Touch You cannot get a real personal holiday experience when staying in a hotel – FACT! Being that you have to share the hotel with hundreds of other strangers makes it a common sense assumption.

Fully-staffed rental villas will provide you with that up-close personal experience that we all desire when taking a vacation. Hotels play the high-turnover numbers game so it’s virtually impossible for them to provide you with a personal experience.

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Location When it comes to location, hotels win every time, especially in Pattaya. Hotels in the city are located in all the best beachside areas, within walkingdistance of everything Pattaya has to offer. Villa rentals are usually tucked away in private locations on residential developments, set further away from the beach, and if you don’t have a rental car or access to a trusted taxi service provider, your holiday experience won’t be as convenient as within a hotel or resort.

Price Comparisons Holidaymakers are becoming more educated when researching and booking holidays. There used to be a misconception that booking a Thailand holiday villa rental home was so expensive.

However, when you take into consideration the combined prices of booking separate hotel rooms for your family or friends, you will find that villa rentals are very competitive and in most cases more affordable overall.

Summary As with everything in the world, it depends on what you are seeking from your holiday experience. Hotels are the most convenient and have the best onsite facilities, while villa rentals provide the utmost in privacy for the more discerning holidaymaker.

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Pattaya real estate

Pattaya real estate

The New Nordic

Love Affair with Pratumnak Hill

P

ratumnak Hill in Pattaya has become one of the most desirable places to live and holiday over the past five years, strategically placed between Jomtien and Pataya Beach Road. One such group that has been instrumental in turning Pratumnak Hill into the center of tourism and real estate that we see today is the New Nordic Group. As the name suggests, the mainstay of the New Nordic Group is Scandinavians, essentially Norwegian, although people spread across 40 different nationalities have purchased real estate with the group over the years. With 43 projects on their books, 26 of which are already completed, they are the largest and most-trusted developer in Pattaya.

It has become well known that those seeking out a safe property investment on Pratumnak Hill go and see the New Nordic Group. They are tried, tested and trusted. One of the best investment features of the group is their rental return policy. If you buy a

property with the New Nordic Group, you can opt for a 5 or 10 year plan where you are guaranteed 10% return on your investment even if the property is off-plan and can’t yet be occupied, as long as you have paid up in full. This really is the ultimate rental returns scheme.

When asked about the group’s expansion over the past few years and looking to the future, Ronnie proudly stated that “We currently have around 3,500 beds, which will more than double to over 8,000 over the next four years. As you can see, we are not letting up at all.”

It seems that Ronnie and the New Nordic Group have created their own slice of Scandinavia in the heart of Pratumnak Hill. To finish off the interview,

Ronnie said “We are a family style resort where everything you could possibly need to holiday or reside is all close by. We adhere to a low-rise development policy in a healthy environment.

We have 17 swimming pools in total today (35 when completed), and shuttle buses that take our residents and guests to and from the beach.

We are always on hand to help any of our potential or long-standing clients. We actually see them as our friends.”

New Nordic Group

389/63 M12 Pratumnak Road, Pattaya Phone: 03 83 06 300 Website: www.new-nordic.com

“The Nordic Group was first established 12 years ago with big aspirations and dreams,” said Ronnie Heggertveit, Sales Manager of the group. “Myself and the current owners of the group came on board 5 years ago, providing real structure and direction to the business model.”

Ronnie is a very modest and unassuming man whose passion and enthusiasm for the group’s projects is palpable. They have created a Nordic Village, both old and new, with their projects on Pratumnak Hill centered around sois 2, 3, 4 and 5.

Because the New Nordic Group headquarters are on Soi 4, they are in the heart of the action to take care of everything for their residents. “I actually live upstairs above the offices,” said Ronnie with a broad smile on his face. “We are literally here all the time to take care of any unforeseen problems that can arise when dealing with so many projects and people.”

One of the group’s latest projects is the New Nordic Marcus Hotel, merging high-quality apartments with hotel-style facilities, connecting the New Nordic Village with the old. The creators of News Café, which is one of the most reputable restaurants in the Jomtien area, are currently making a brand new restaurant in the heart of the village that will open in mid-May. “Within our projects on Pratumnak, we have, and continue to, provide all the local amenities such as restaurants and shops to make everything convenient and close at hand… a real community.”

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Pattaya rEal EstatE

Pattaya rEal EstatE IMPoRTANT FACToRS To CoNSIdER IN CARRyING oUT dUE dILIGENCE •

dUE

DILIGENCE ON THAI PROPERTY PURCHASE

I

nvesting in real estate certainly involves huge amount of money. We cannot deny the fact that there are some fraudulent dealers and developers taking advantage of naïve investors who can easily get victimized with unscrupulous deals. Therefore, investors are advised to take extra precaution before finalizing any transactions. Due Diligence is a useful tool for estimating the status of a prospective project and the developer.

Due diligence is the research and analysis of a company, organization, or an individual done in preparation for a business transaction or investment.

A reasonable person takes extra precaution before entering into an agreement or a transaction with another party to prevent unnecessary harm as the procedure helps to identify potential risks and liabilities. Due diligence serves to confirm all material facts and legal parameters in regards to a sale or acquisition by investigation and evaluation of a potential investment.

By: Magna Carta Law Office

You need to be guaranteed that the seller is holding the said property under a true title of ownership. Land descriptions contained in any title deed must match with the records in the Land Department. It is necessary to establish whether or not the Chanote or Title Deed has been correctly and legally issued.

• You need to be aware of the burdens existing on the property. It is necessary to review the Register of Records stated at the back of the title document as this contains all the encumbrances and liens currently levied upon the property.

• You need to determine whether the seller is the one who holds title to the property who may therefore have the full legal rights to sell the property.

• You need to be aware of any pending or potential legal action involving the property.

• You need to make sure that the developer has all of the required permits and legal documentations for a project that is not yet built.

• You or your legal consultant may have some minor concerns with the sale contract details that can be corrected before signing to purchase.

• You need to be informed of the details and status of the developer. It is essential to know how long the developer has been developing properties in Thailand and the amount of their registered share capital.

• You must have a clear understanding of the rights and obligations of each party. This includes who pays which taxes and fees, when the deposit and balances gets paid, how long the project will take to completion and what remedies there will be if the project is not completed on time.

• It is recommended that you have a lawyer in Thailand to review the contract drafted by the seller to ensure it is prepared with proper terms and conditions that meets the standard terms as required by relevant laws and confirm that the contract does not contain terms of any hidden cost and drawbacks. Your lawyer will also negotiate and discuss with the seller on your behalf for proposed changes until both parties mutually agrees with the content of the final contract then set to meet for signing.

The need for thorough detailed due diligence begins prior to the signing of a binding contract.

The necessary title and background investigations provide the initial basis to confirm any safe purchase and ensure that both parties deal with each other in a fairly manner.

Completion of a Due Diligence procedure varies with each situation. Due Diligence is all about research that is why a reasonable schedule should be allotted to ensure that all essential aspects are scrutinized. Your lawyer or consultant will evaluate and define the timeframes in which due diligence will be conducted.

The failure to conduct the necessary safeguard in ensuring that the potential property to be purchased is what the seller claims or promised it to be usually results in terrible consequences such as serious financial and legal distress on the part of the buyer.

It must be remembered that almost always after all the transfer has been done, the seller will not hold responsibility for problems the buyer did not discover.

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Pattaya rEal EstatE

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aMari rEsidEnCEs hOtEl lObby

The Nova Group

Tried, Tested and Trusted

A

nyone who knows the climate of the real estate industry in Thailand will tell you that Pattaya is rapidly overtaking Bangkok as its major hub of activity. However, with so much construction and development creation happening in the city, it can be a potential minefield for buyers, although at the moment we have the ultimate buyer’s market in Pattaya. During such times of activity, you need to hook up with the most trusted developers with proven track records for providing quality at the right price, and who are also successful at achieving what they say they will. The Nova Group in Pattaya, is one such name

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that conjures up images of trust, reliability and confidence.

Established as far back as 1994 by the well-respected Rony Fineman, who has been living in Thailand for over 25 years, the Nova Group started out in the hotel industry. “Nova Group started with Nova Lodge Hotel,” said Rony. “Now we are a development group who specialize in the hospitality business which for us includes hotels, serviced apartments, pubs, restaurants and condominiums.”

Respected and well known for their ethos of creating high-class developments for a value-for-money price, some of the finest developments in their

portfolio include the Nova Mirage in Wongamat, Nova Atrium and Nova Avenue Residence in Central Pattaya. Their newest projects such as the Nova Ocean View and The Cliff Residence are currently under construction on Pratumnak Hill.

“I have been in the hotel business all of my life,” said Rony. “In England I was a hotel manager and group manager for Maxwells, which is an equivalent to the Hard Rock Café chain of restaurants and hotels. I actually started my career in the hotel industry in Ireland back in 1978.”

When asked about why the Nova Group has such a great reputation and a successful business model over the past decade, Rony said “As the owner of Nova Park serviced apartments, I met a lot of our customers interested in purchasing a unit. I figured they must be very happy with the service and products I have on offer, so maybe it was time to build condominiums. The last seven years have seen enormous success and growth for The Nova Group, firstly with their down-town condominium development, The Avenue Residence behind The Avenue shopping complex on Pattaya second road, a prime city centre development boasting 237 units starting from only 1.4mb was a huge success.”

It’s true that not many developers in Pattaya have the same track record as the Nova Group, and that reliability, alongside the construction of amazing condominium developments have combined to create something so popular and trustworthy that you can rest assured that your investment is in safe hands. “Affordable luxury is what we strive to give all of our buyers in our condominium projects, and I believe that is exactly what we give them,” said Rony.

If you are seeking the ideal developer to buy a condominium in Pattaya, the Nova Group is tried, tested and trusted. Give their offices in Na Jomtien a visit to find out the current offers and investment opportunities that have available.

Nova Group

Phone: 038 415 304-8 Website: www.nova-thailand.com/

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