Pattaya Today Vol 15 Issue 11 - 16-29 February 2016

Volume 15, Issue 11

16 - 29 February 2016

30 BAHT

Is Pattaya the Tops?

L

ast month’s BBC report claiming that Thailand is a top place to retire has caused a lot of comment amongst local expats. BBC author Rob Budden claimed in his article that Thailand was the seventh best choice in the world as it offers a slower pace of life, lots of sunshine, favourable tax rates, quality healthcare and a better standard of living. The ranked countries in the report were Panama, Ecuador, Malaysia, Spain, Malta, Portugal and Thailand.

The report stressed the importance of the Land of Smile’s friendly image for Thailand, which means that older people are respected whilst they enjoy a bureaucratic system which imposes no taxation on retirees from abroad. Author Budden gives strong emphasis to the reasonable financial regulations for over 50s wanting a one-year retirement visa – 800,000 baht in a Thai bank or an overseas income of at least 65,000 baht monthly or a combination of both.

Pattaya Today conducted an informal survey of about 60 elderly expats, mainly British, who have lived in Thailand from between 2 and 25 years. Those who agreed most strongly with the report lived in the Isan region of northeastern Thailand. Arthur Greenwood, living in Nong Khai, was typical of this group.

“I met a genuine Thai lady and built a home here. I agree with everything the report said. The people round here are very pleasant and the cost of living is cheap. The local hospital is very good.

Frankly, we just ignore all the bad things about the country as we don’t meet them here. Things like corruption, police harassment, violence and trouble in Bangkok just don’t concern us.” Arthur is also a member of a local expat group, composed of elderly men, which meets on a regular basis, if only in the local pub.

Nobody seemed to disagree strongly with Arthur’s assessment, although one man was disillusioned as his wife had deserted

Bizarre Bridge Games In a unique case, Pattaya bridge club, founded in 1994, was raided on February 3 and all 30 members playing there were arrested for gambling. The raid on rented premises on Thappraya Road, Pattaya, was not conducted by police but by the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) of the civilian licensing and registration authority known locally as the Banglamung District Office. They were accompanied by several army troopers. Officials had been given a tip-off by an informant that illegal activities were occurring there. Local media are reporting that the informant was a dismissed former staff member of Alto restaurant where the bridge club is based.

The DOPA could not find any evidence of cash being

him together with the proceeds of the entire joint bank account.

But we found rather a different reaction in the Pattaya area which is home to © Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) perhaps 30,000 expats, mainly European.

The general reaction to the report was Pattaya “has changed,” although what that means varies from person to person. Some retirees comment on the phenomenal growth of the city in terms of population and pollution, others are disturbed by the recent influx of Russian and then Chinese visitors, whilst still others maintain that it is becoming increasingly easy to be financially ripped-off here by lovers, business people and the police. Several correspondents gave as evidence the fact that there are fewer western Europeans taking up residence here. Frank Daley, who has lived in Pattaya for 12 years, said, “Most expats living in Pattaya are now in their late 60s or older. They are not being replaced by younger people.”

Continued on page 6

gambled but believed that the club’s offline computer, used for scoring, was somehow linked to nefarious activities. They also seized the club’s equipment and hundreds of packs of playing cards, not apparently aware that everything found there is typical of any duplicate bridge club in the world. DOPA was also not satisfied that the club’s operating licence, issued by the Bangkok-based Contract Bridge Association of Thailand, was valid in Pattaya and also believed there were technical offences under an act of 1943 relating to the number and type of packs of cards.

The 30 arrested players, none under 55 years of age and including several in their 80s, had to wait two hours before being shuttled in baht buses to the Pattaya police station for processing. They were not consigned to the cells but led to a Continued on page 4

2

16 - 29 February 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

News

Drug dealers busted

Seven members of a drug gang were arrested in Pattaya. They were identified as Weerayut Sripatranusorn, Panathorn Theeratham, Piyawat Chimkul, Noppadol Prempoe, Ornanong Huabjuabjoo, Uraiwan Narkjai and Arunothai Waikrut, caught with a total of 76,000 pieces of amphetamines or known as Yaba tablets, luxury

cars, motorcycles and several mobile phones. An informant called police and said that big drug dealers from Bangkok and Chonburi were coming to Pattaya. The officers arranged the operation and some pretended to be drug buyers. The police officers and the suspects met at a gas station where the arrests were made.

Nightclub raided at Bali Hai

A large number of police paid a visit to the Black Pearl on the Sea nightclub and found 200 customers, some with problems. There were several patrons below the age of 20, the minimum age, and around 30 others tested positive in a urine test. The operator, Arkom Wiengkam, 48, was accused

of serving booze after hours and selling alcohol to persons too young to purchase it. In progress was a college uniform party in which students wearing a university uniform were allowed to drink free. This discretion may have led to some drunken behaviour.

Woman claims lover stabbed himself

After a Finnish man was found stabbed with a knife wound in his chest, police arrested suspect Wassana Klomkamin in Trat. She admitted she had lived with Timo Juhani Tarra for four years and that he gave her some cash for jobs around the house. She was aware that he slept with other women but had

Woman dies in condo leap Police rushed to View Talay 2 Condominium after hearing that a Thai woman had jumped from the 15th floor. Jirawadee Uppanan, 29, was found dead but her Dutch boyfriend remained in the room to talk to police. Edwin Piers, 64, said that, prior to the jump, his lady had talked to him about her family and personal problems but she seemed convinced he was not really interested. He explained he gave to her 10,000 baht every month, plus 5,000 baht to the family, and there was nothing more he could do.

never complained. In due course, they had had a fight during which Tarra had threatened her with a knife. But he slipped and stuck the knife in himself by mistake. Wassana said she did not know what to do and had thus run away. Investigations are ongoing.

3

16 - 29 February 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

News

New building at Banglamung Hospital Sabai Group of companies’ head Chao Jiramongkol and his family led the merit-making ceremony of the new dormitory in Banglamung Hospital. It was the second building donated by the family as a dormitory for the hardworking nurses and doctors in the hospital. It was named Chao Jiramongkol Building 2.

According to Banglamung Hospital Director Dr. Narongsak Eakwattanakul, they don’t have enough space for nurses and doctors to stay while they are working in the hospital. This will help in hiring new nurses and doctors.

Chao and the Sabai Group had already donated a 3-storey building in 2015 valued at more than 13 million baht which brings his total donation to the hospital to about 55 million baht since 2001.

AirAsia holds Pattaya Travel Fair

AirAsia organized Pattaya Travel Fair to offer specially priced air tickets on all of its routes from U-Tapao Airport, both domestic and international, to residents of the eastern region as well as provide them with a myriad of fun activities to promote U-Tapao Airport’s potential as the airline’s fifth flight base, ready to accommodate a growing number of travelers, as well as to stimulate the local market.

Pattaya Travel Fair took place January 30-31 at Central Festival Pattaya Beach with Rattanachai Suttidechanai, chairman of the Tourism and Sports Committee of Pattaya City Hall. AirAsia donated 300 beach umbrellas to Pattaya City in support of its tourism sector.

Activities and souvenirs as well as a daily prize of two free air tickets were at stake for fair attendees.

Ittiphol Kunplome, mayor of Pattaya, pointed out that Pattaya City continues to attract a large number of visitors both domestically and

from abroad, and tourism is fundamental to the city’s economy, making the introduction of new airline services to the area very beneficial to it and its vicinity, spurring tourism growth.

Sirinun Kiatwanichsophon, Domestic Group brand manager for Thai AirAsia, remarked that the eastern region has high potential in terms of economic growth and tourism and attracts a large volume of travelers.

He asserted that U-Tapao Airport’s ability to keep pace with the growing number of visitors to the region is a boon to travel business operators and airlines, while the introduction of a capable airline serving a variety of routes to the region is a benefit to travelers.

Specially priced tickets offered during the travel fair included domestic flights, from U-Tapao to Chiang Mai, Udon Thani and Hat Yai, and international flights, from U-Tapao to Singapore, Macau, Nanning and Nanchang.

4

16 - 29 February 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

News Bizarre Bridge Games UK expats – Don’t miss out, you may be able to vote in the EU Referendum Continued from page 1

large office on the top floor for a confinement of a further 10 hours.

Water was provided after several hours but no food, although a local 7-Eleven convenience store was allowed to bring snacks to those who purchased them. Elderly members requiring regular medication were not given a concession although the oldest member, aged 84, was allowed to leave the premises two hours earlier than everyone else.

All members were fingerprinted and had mugshots taken as part of the due process. They were also told to sign lengthy confessions in Thai, not translated, and did so after being advised by a lawyer they could change their plea in court the following morning. After paying bail of 5,000 baht each, they were allowed to leave the police station at 3:15 am and told to reassemble at 10:30 the following morning for onward transportation in a police van to Pattaya court. One lady in her 60s refused to sign a confession or to pay bail but was released later after another member contributed the sum on her behalf.

On the following morning, members were told to wait to board the police van but no instruction was forthcoming and, after two hours, everyone was told to go home. This unexpected turn of events was likely influenced by the Pattaya police superintendent’s unease when he examined the paperwork. His officers, after all, had not been involved in the raid in the first place. Additionally, Khunying Chodchoy Sophonpanich, president of the Contract Bridge Association of Thailand, travelled down from Bangkok to explain to local officials how bridge clubs all round the world actually operated. Thus, bridge club members were never formally indicted in the court.

They are, nonetheless, still on police bail pending a final decision by the public prosecutor. He had given the police a further month to prepare new documentation which involved all members attending the police station singly or in groups. Barry Kenyon, the club’s founder and one of those arrested, said, “It was all very friendly and polite. We were asked to sign a new statement (not a confession of guilt) and to sign our mugshot photos. Our passports and driving licences were returned but not yet our bail money. This is because everyone is waiting for the public prosecutor to sign off all cases against the accused.” Barry added that he expected all bail money to be returned before the end of this month. “The matter is in the hands of the prosecutor. You can’t hurry the Orient.”

However, the club president, Jeremy Watson, 74, may be in a rather different position. He was singled out by DOPA as the key offender and had to pay bail of 80,000 baht. It is possible that Jeremy may still be charged over the question of the club licence and/or technical offences under the card playing act of 1943. If so, the charges will be fought as the club believes that the licence, issued by the Contract Bridge Association of Thailand, is valid and that a 1960 exemption excused duplicate bridge from the 1943 act. The public prosecutor has two months now to decide whether to bring these charges: nothing to do with gambling which has now been dropped from the agenda. If he does file charges the case could literally take years, as short hearings are held with long gaps (sometimes several months) between them and witnesses heard in lengthy rotation.

Khunying Chodchoy, who is president of the Bangkok Bank, and Barry Kenyon, a former official of the British embassy, have both indicated they will appear in Jeremy’s defence, if the charges persist.

In the days following the mass arrests, the news went viral on both Thai and international media of all types. The story made headline news in UK, America, Australia and Scandinavia. Khunying Chodchoy said she was very concerned that the arrests would deter quality tourists from coming to Thailand, not to mention the fact that visitors attending bridge congresses in Thailand may now feel threatened and believe that the country is unsafe for them. Barry Kenyon added, “The unbelievable amount of publicity this story has generated was initially created by our accusers who brought along the local media to ensure lots of publicity for the arrests.” That has certainly happened.

PS – Police later confirmed that the members’ bail money can be refunded to them in advance of the original deadline.

The UK Electoral Commission encourages British citizens living overseas to register to vote ahead of the referendum on the UK’s membership of the European Union.

With the date of the referendum as yet unknown, the Commission is advising UK expats to register sooner rather than later so they can be sure they are registered in time. Expats can now register online to vote in just a few minutes at www.gov.uk/ register-to-vote.

To register as an overseas voter, UK residents overseas must have previously been registered in a UK

constituency within the last 15 years. Once registered, overseas voters can then choose how they wish to vote. They can vote by post, by proxy (voting by appointing someone you trust to vote on your behalf), or even in person at their polling station if they will be in their local authority area on polling day.

It should be easier to vote by post for this referendum as the timetable for postal votes has been extended to allow postal votes to be sent out even earlier than usual, giving overseas voters further time to receive,

complete, and return their ballot pack to the UK. To register to vote, UK citizens should visit www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.

Dangers of cold weather explained In view of the recent period of cold weather, howbeit in an era of global warming, officials have been advising people how to keep cosy during a sudden drop in temperature. For example, they should wear extra clothes to keep warm and avoid becoming drunk lest they fall asleep without adequate protection and wake up shivering. Other advice included the warning that you must not light a fire in a small room or you might be overcome by smoke or even flames. Cold weather in tropical countries can result in flu, pneumonia, chickenpox and diarrhea.

Training course for emergency medical technicians Dr. Piyaporn Thipayarat, assistant hospital director of Bangkok Hospital Pattaya and chairwoman of training committee, presided over the Emergency Medical Technician–Basic (EMT-B) course to educate more than 80 participants with basic emergency skills.

New Asia Pacific Harley-Davidson University now fully operational Harley-Davidson showed off its new Harley-Davidson University Asia Pacific training facility located in Bangkok, which became fully operational in January 2016.

With a growing network of independently operated dealerships in the Asia Pacific region, HarleyDavidson seeks to support its dealers in becoming and remaining industry leaders in motorcycling expertise and customer service.

The new training facility aims to deliver best-in-class technical and business skills training, serving Harley-Davidson dealers in multiple markets – specifically Southeast Asia, but also the larger Asia Pacific region.

“Thailand was selected as the ideal location for our new training facility due to its central location within the Asia Pacific region, excellent air travel connectivity and support

from the Thai government,” said Marc McAllister, vice president and managing director, Harley-Davidson Asia Pacific. “With our new facility, we look to provide an exceptional training environment for our dealers, as they continue to serve Harley-Davidson customers across this region.”

The 1,512 square-meter facility located in 344 Rama III Road, Bang Khlo, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok, has the capacity to accommodate two technical training workshops, each with up to 16 technicians. In addition there are three conference rooms with capacity of up to 100 participants.

5

16 - 29 February 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

News Chevrolet adds ONYX Hospitality Group to list of Chevy Plus partners In its continued efforts to provide unsurpassed customer benefits to Chevy Plus members, Chevrolet Sales Thailand partnered with ONYX Hospitality Group to bring more benefits to Chevy Plus VIP members.

With the new partnership, Chevy Plus VIP members can stay at ONYX Hospitality Group properties including Amari, Oriental Residence, Shama, OZO and The Mosaic Collection with a discount of up to 1,000 baht from Best Available Rates.

This special privilege is applicable for bookings done via www.onyxhospitality.com/chevy-plus from today to September 30, 2016.

The Chevy Plus program, available to all Chevrolet customers,

Tourist Visa to UK Here are 10 commonly asked questions:

also includes free or discounted products and services from many popular brands, including SF

Cinema City, Coldstone Creamery, McDonalds, Bangkok Airways, and Thai Ticket Major.

Tree House Cafe is now open Pattana Boonsawat and his family welcomed guests to their newly open business, Tree House Café and Restaurant located in Huay Yai. The European country style-inspired restaurant is managed by Kritsana Boonsawat and Thai windsurfer Eak Boonsawat. Freshly-made food is served daily aside from the family’s famous sweets, cakes and Bingsoo desserts.

The restaurant is open from 11 am to 10 pm, except Wednesday.

Avail of 15 percent discount until February 29. For more information and directions, call 080 091 1118.

Burapha Bike Week 2016

Reasons for failure The most common reason is inconsistencies in the applicant’s story.

For example if the applicant claims to be working in a restaurant, then the embassy will expect to see documentation and evidence. If the applicant states that she (assuming it is a she) is financially supported by the sponsor, then there must be evidence. Never claim anything you can’t prove with written evidence.

What does the sponsor do?

In a typical case, the UK sponsor and the Thai applicant are in a relationship. So he (assuming it is a he) must provide evidence of his income and ownership or lease of the residence where the applicant will stay. Then there is the all important question of providing proof of the ongoing relationship.

Proof of relationship Certainly a bunch of photos taken over time. If the sponsor has met the applicant’s Thai family, then that’s helpful. There should be proof of phone calls or emails or contact by the social media. Make sure there is a record of this sort of communication – that is essential. In the old days, lovers corresponded by letter but that is ancient history now.

Anti-gay discrimination These days there is no discrimination on these grounds. Gays are treated the same as anyone else. Don’t forget that if a UK citizen wishes to marry a Thai in the UK, then the tourist visa is not the route. It’s called a fiancé visa and is under different regulations.

What is the process?

There’s a lengthy computerized form to fill in. There’s also an appointment form on-line. The applicant goes to Trendy Office in Bangkok to hand in the file with all the attached documentation. The applicant must also have an x-ray which is easy to arrange.

How long to wait?

The embassy says around a month but, in practice, the waiting period is less. During the waiting time, it is common for an embassy official to contact the applicant by phone to clarify some issues in the paperwork. If a visa is refused, the embassy gives its reasons in writing. Take professional advice before taking action on any appeal – the rules are very strict.

Visiting other countries A British visa does not entitle the holder to visit other countries, although there are special rules about Ireland. If a Thai national visa holder wishes to visit, say, a Schengen country, then that visa must be separately applied for in Thailand. If there is an intention to visit several Schengen countries, application should be made via the embassy of the first country to be visited.

Minimum sponsor income There is no minimum income or cash holding laid down for the sponsor of a tourist visa applicant. This is in contrast to the rules for a settlement visa where the sponsor must earn at least 18,600 pounds a year (more if Thai children are coming too). However, for the tourist visa, the sponsor must have “adequate” funds.

Another successful Burapha Pattaya Bike Week was held this month at the Eastern National Indoor Sports Stadium and Training Center in Soi Chayapreuk 2. It is a huge fun event that brings bikers together from all across Thailand and other countries for various activities, music and shows.

An estimated 50,000 people joined the event.

It is held every year in Pattaya and aims to raise money for chosen charity each year.

How many tourist visas?

No formal limit is laid down, but the embassy can refuse consecutive or regular tourist visas as they are meant to provide a route for continuous living in the UK. Also see next question.

How long for?

The visa is valid for a stay of up to six months. However, the applicant must give the expected duration in weeks or months on the computerized application form. If an applicant, for example, says she (if it is a she) will stay for three months but then stays longer, this can create problems in a later application. The key is to stick to what you promise on the form.

These notes were prepared by Visa2Britain, a successful Pattaya-based agency with 20+ years experience. The managing director Jessataporn Sriboo (known as Mr Chang) can be contacted on 081 754 9342 or 084 362 6574 or at his main office located by the car park of the immigration police bureau, Jomtien Soi 5.

6

16 - 29 February 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

News Is Pattaya the Tops? Elephants’ remains dug up Continued from page 1 A particular concern was the cost of healthcare.

Whilst all agreed that the quality of healthcare can be as good as back home, the expense of operations in Thailand’s private hospitals can equate with the UK. Frank explained, “It is all very well telling people to obtain medical insurance, but the companies don’t want ageing pensioners for obvious reasons. I know many people who were kicked out of their scheme once they reached 70 or thereabouts or found that the yearly premiums were rising dramatically.” Frank, who is 73, said he dropped out of his international scheme voluntarily after the annual premium rose to more

than 500,000 baht. He added that, sooner or later everyone has to become their own insurer.

But not all Pattaya-based expats agreed with that assessment. Bob Mason, 68, said he had moved to Pattaya seven years ago and had never regretted it. “I bought a house on the Dark Side because property prices there are much cheaper than in the city. I enjoy playing golf twice a week and spend most evenings meeting other expats in the local pubs. There are some excellent restaurants in East Pattaya (the Dark Side beyond the railway line) and they are great value for money.” He added that he deliberately had not sought a Thai partner, thus

avoiding the fate which has befallen some expats. “As regards health matters, I joined the recently-opened Pattaya City Hospital on Soi Buakhao and have no complaints whatever about their services and charges.”

Perhaps the basic lesson for expat pensioners living anywhere in Thailand is to live, partly at least, in a bubble. As retired British embassy officer Barry Kenyon wrote in his book Honorary Consul Pattaya, “The best advice is to live within your means and to mind your own business. Don’t flout the law and get mixed up with the Thai law courts. Be very careful about whom you trust, Thai or farang, and don’t believe everything you hear in the local pub.”

Tall tree collapses

Diggers at Banglamung Temple excavated the skeletons of nine elephants and hosted a meritmaking ceremony. Volunteers then cleaned the bones as a sign of respect to the animals. In the past, the skeleton of a whale washed up on the shore was found and put back together. Some of these prized remains are scheduled later to be put in a museum but it hasn’t been built yet. This ceremony of cleaning bones of animals is held very rarely these days but has a long tradition in Thai history.

Tourists need helmets too

Pattaya city hall is sponsoring a campaign to encourage overseas visitors to drive safely. Deputy Mayor Ronakit Ekasingh explained that an increasing number of farang were joining the ranks of the Big Bikers but added that they must do more to protect their own lives against accidents. All bikers were reminded that they must wear a safety helmet at all times on the roads unless they wished to end up in hospital or at the police station, and possibly both.

Drunk Thai man cuts himself

Strong winds toppled a 20-meter tree on Jomtien Beach blocking the road and creating a massive traffic jam. The same incident

happened on the east side of Pattaya which damaged electric posts and moving vehicles.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Monkeys banished after assaults

A Thai man, identified as Kriangsak Hongthong, was found unconscious and bleeding profusely in broad daylight on Pratumnak Road.

He had several cuts on his leg and neck. Witness Thonglor Chantrakul, a street vendor, said that he saw Kriangsak drinking and moaning about his broken heart, then suddenly he picked up a knife and cut himself several times.

First aid was given by concerned citizen and Kriangsak was brought to Banglamung Hospital.

Former Police Volunteer arrested for kidnapping

Three monkeys from a wood on Koh Larn have been sentenced to a permanent stay in the Banglamung Wildlife Breeding Centre after a Russian woman and a 4-year-old boy were bitten.

Civic officials have several times warned the public not to feed monkeys. Some are fierce and others come down from the hills in search of food.

They are easily upset and prone to biting humans whom they don’t seem to like. Notices have been put up on Koh Larn warning the general public not to encourage the monkeys nor to offer them food in the hope of befriending the animals.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Amphol Buarabphon presented to the media, Sattawut Wilasri, after he was caught in kidnapping a 20-year-old woman, Jenjira Silanoi.

According to the victim, she was withdrawing some cash at ATM when Sattawut approached her and pretended to be a police officer. Armed with fake gun, the suspect asked Jenjira to go with him for further inspection.

She was brought to Ban Kaew Resort and instructed to call a relative and ask for 20,000 baht as ransom money.

After she had fled, Jenjira immediately reported the incident to the police station and the suspect was caught in his residence. The suspect, a former police volunteer, admitted the crime and confessed wanting to use the money for drugs.

7

16 - 29 February 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

News Chiang Rai to host PATA Adventure Travel Conference and Mart

by Tourism Authority of Thailand, www.TATnews.org

Chiang Rai will host the Pacific Asia Travel Association’s Adventure Travel and Responsible Tourism Conference and Mart (AT&RTCM) 2016, February 17 to 19, the first Asia-Pacific travel conference to be held in this Far North tourist destination.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is supporting the landmark event to illustrate the readiness of secondary destinations to welcome international tourism.

Previously held in Nepal and Bhutan, this year’s AT&RTCM will position Chiang Rai as an emerging destination for both soft adventure and community-based tourism.

Highlighting the theme of “Creating Experiences, Sharing Opportunities,” the three-day event will bring together travel executives w h o p ro m o t e a d ve n t u re a n d sustainable travel options. Tourism experts, many of them architects of successful adventure and communitybased tourism projects in Asia, will complete a line-up of 20 speakers from 10 nations.

Two representatives of the TAT will speak at the event: Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, executive director – Advertising and Public Relations Department, who will speak

Snap Judgment Dengue vaccine soon

on Sharing Opportunities: Building Back Better after a Disaster, and Ben Fleming, marketing manager, TAT LA Office, who will talk on Sharing Opportunities: How to Design Effective Cooperative Marketing Campaigns.

Other topics featured in the programme include ‘Creating Experiences that Challenge, Delight and Inspire’; ‘Best Practices in Responsible Tourism from the ASEAN Region’; The Inbound

Marketing Playbook; ‘The New Adventure Market: Understanding the Indian and Chinese Adventure Traveller’, and ‘Crossroads: Adventure and Responsible Travel Off the Beaten Path’.

The Conference and Mart will be held at the Dusit Island Resort on the banks of the Mae Kok River that flows through the heart of Chiang Rai city.

For more information about the event, visit www.PATA.org/ ATRTCM-2016.

Tara Pattana hosts Family Fun Day

Tara Pattana International School held the annual family fun day activity not only for their students but all young

kids in Pattaya. The campus event featured fun activities, performances, car boot sale, farmer’s market and recitals.

Please protect your motorbike

In view of the escalating number of thefts, police are hosting a campaign to reduce the number of vehicle thefts. The main thrust of the campaign is to encourage motorbike owners to use two locks rather than one on their machines. The logic here is that two locks would

double the amount of time a wannabe thief would spend on his nefarious activity. The campaign is supported by Ball Racing Pattaya offering discounts on disc locks with an anti-theft alarm, available for 500 baht from retail price of 800 baht.

The most dangerous of the mosquito-borne diseases, dengue fever affects around 100 million people a year worldwide, with up to 10 percent suffering haemorrhagic symptoms which are potentially deadly. In Southeast Asia, dengue is one of the major causes of severe illnesses amongst children and one of the most serious health concerns for expats.

The dengue mosquitoes, contrary to common belief, are active on a 24-hour basis but most frequently during daylight hours, and can be identified by white spots or markings on their legs. There are four different strains or serotypes and, once bitten, an individual is safe from a second attack of that particular strain. It is theoretically impossible on this basis to have four dengue attacks in one lifetime.

The incubation period is from four to seven days. Most infections create few symptoms in the early stage, but then severe headaches, high fever, extreme physical weakness and back pain may ensue. Sometimes there is a measleslike, non-itchy rash over the face, throat and limbs. Symptoms usually subside after 10 days or so, but marked fatigue can last for several weeks more.

The unlucky few amongst infected patients develop the serious haemorrhagic fever which is responsible for multiple bleeding. The first indication is a rash with small red spots found anywhere on the skin. Bruising and bleeding from the nose or gums can follow, even internal bleeding in the most serious cases. If the life-threatening dengue shock syndrome sets in, confinement in an intensive care unit of a hospital is required.

Individuals who have experienced dengue once are statistically at higher risk of a more severe second attack than those who have no dengue fever history. This is referred to as “antibody dependent enhancement” and represents an additional challenge in vaccine development. Accurate diagnosis requires a simple test to detect the presence of the dengue virus in whole blood through immunologic techniques.

There is no specific treatment for this virus itself. Besides blood transfusions in high-risk patients, supportive therapy is provided to maintain the vital functions. In a proper medical environment, the mortality rate is below one percent as long as the disease is not spotted too late. Some victims of dengue believe initially they have a bad cold.

After 20 years of research, a vaccine is now produced by the French pharmaceutical company Sanofi. It is not yet available in Southeast Asia but is expected to be on offer in all ASEAN countries before the end of 2016. Administered through three injections at six-month intervals, the efficacy rate varies from 50 percent to 78 percent depending on the causal viral strains. The vaccine is said to be particularly effective at avoiding the need for hospitalization. At present the vaccine is recommended only for children over the age of 9 and adults. This situation is potentially serious as many dengue cases involve youngsters below the age of 9.

Because dengue fever is a significant public health concern in a growing number of countries, its effective control is going to depend on the successful introduction and implementation of government-sponsored immunization programmes. This in turn will depend on the political commitment of a country’s health authorities to control effectively this endemic disease. Thailand, which has a comparatively high infection rate, cannot afford to ignore the threats and the opportunities.

8

16 - 29 February 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

Our Community

Royal visit to Pattaya

by Derek Franklin

On the morning of Thursday, January 28, Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn arrived in Pattaya to preside over the opening ceremony of the Father Ray Center for Children with Special Needs.

H e r R oy a l H i g h n e s s was welcomed to Pattaya by Father Michael Picharn Jaiseri C.Ss.R., vice president of the Father Ray Foundation.

Dignitaries from the local Pattaya area as well as those from the wider province attended the ceremony, as did many local individuals and business owners.

Her Royal Highness was also welcomed by several hundred flag waving children and students with disabilities who are currently living under the care of the Father Ray Foundation.

The idea of the new Center was publicly announced in August 2013 to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the passing of the founder of the Father Ray Foundation, Father Ray Brennan C.Ss.R. It took a lot of hard work and persuasion to raise the required 36 million baht, but this was a project that the Father Ray Foundation had to complete. For many children

living with special needs in the local area, there are very few, if any, facilities where they can receive the therapy, education and support that they and their families need. Children who are autistic, or who have Down’s syndrome, cerebral palsy, ADHD and learning disabilities will now receive the help they need.

The new Center will offer early intervention therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, age and ability appropriate education, life skills and vocational training as well as counseling and training for families.

H e r R oy a l H i g h n e s s

PILC 2016 Annual General Meeting The Pattaya International Ladies Club (PILC) held its annual general meeting at Holiday Inn Pattaya. One of Pattaya’s longest running clubs and very well-known for its community work, PILC took the opportunity to thank its outgoing committee for their tremendous efforts throughout 2015. Last year saw a wide range of activities and successful events take place, as well as ongoing welfare projects helping communities in need in the area.

With over 60 members in attendance and in the capable hands of Election Officer Angela Poustie, it took only a little over 45 minutes for all the business to be attended to – a Club record! Angela introduced the new team of enthusiastic ladies who will take on the responsibility of guiding the Club’s activities for 2016.

They are Helle Rantsen, president; Sue Tait, vice president; Wendy Khan, secretary; Deepika Bhateja, treasurer; Kathy Greenleaf, membership; Pauline Elphick, activities; Lhen Lhen Mantela, welfare; Vanessa Beading, newsletter; Violette Gauthier, hospitality. Welcome also to Li

Jie Cao who is a late addition to the team and will look after special events. Congratulations ladies!

Helle Rantsen, reelected for her fourth term as president, said it was wonderful to have such a great team to take the Club forward into 2016. “PILC has around 200 members representing 18 nationalities and it is great to have a committee reflecting that diversity. We are looking forward to an exciting year and already have lots of ideas for events and activities for our members to enjoy.”

With the business of the day out of the way, everyone then proceeded to enjoy the always excellent lunch buffet

provided by the Holiday Inn Pattaya’s capable Food and Beverage team.

Pattaya International Ladies Club is a non-profit, non-political group which provides opportunities for social, cultural and philanthropic endeavours.

Most members are expatriate women who are living on the Eastern Seaboard permanently or visiting for extended periods of time.

If you would like to know more about the Club please contact PILC on email: infopilc@gmail.com, visit their website: www.pilc-pattaya. com or on Facebook: PILC Pattaya International Ladies Club.

presented 100 s pecially designed awards to individuals, charitable organizations and businesses who donated money and equipment to ensure the new Center could be built.

During the visit Her Royal Highness toured the fourstorey building and showed her interest in the children who will make use of the Center.

Several teenagers performed a variety of musical numbers using traditional Thai instruments, impressing Her Royal Highness who is herself a noted and talented musician.

Donors arrived not only from the local Pattaya area, but also from around the world. Several members of management and cabin crew

from British Airways attended the ceremony. Representatives from the UK-based Thai Children’s Trust, the Danish Den Danske Pattaya Fond, the French Les Amis de l’Orphelinat de Pattaya and the Hong Kong International

School all received an award as a mark of appreciation for their support and generosity.

The visit by Her Royal Highness was short, but the memories of the visit will last in the minds of the children forever.

Hilton Pattaya donates used calendars to Pattaya Blind School Hilton Pattaya’s Director of Business Development Phatrarika Phatraprasit (center) together with Hilton blue energy team donated used calendars to Pattaya Redemptorist School for the Blind led by School Manager Chid Sooknu (back row, second from left). Over 300 calendars of past years were collected from hotel’s team members and will be converted into a special notebook for blind and visually impaired children by the Pattaya Blind School.

Showing the Marriott Spirit at Home for the Elderly

Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa General Manager Somsak Tanruengsri (center) and several team members volunteered to create a wonderful occasion for the elderly and disabled of Karunyawet Home for Persons with Disabilities. The resort’s associates, including February birthday celebrants, hosted and served 410 meals for the home’s residents. Everyone was delighted in the joy of giving and even the recipients were filled with happiness.

Pattaya Today's lifestyle, travel and culture guide

Vol. 04 No. 04 | Feb 16-29, 2016

L iv I N G

i n

stY L e

Amari Havodda Maldives

Caprice – A Taste of Riviera

Chevrolet Colorado High Country 4x4

escapades L5

top tables L6

automotive L10

Banyan The Resort Hua Hin & MercedesBenz Road Cruise 2016

by John K. Lindgren

Concept: Annual charity event Organizer: Mercedes-Benz Club Thailand Host: Banyan The Resort Hua Hin Destination: Hua Hin, Prachuapkirikhan Activities: Corporate Social Responsibility visit to MEPSEC, the grandiose Seven Kings statues experience at Ratchapakdi Park, the Mercedes-Benz road cruise, and Banyan The Resort Hua Hin buffet dinner Recently the Mercedes-Benz Club Thailand led by Sayam Sethaputra, president, organized the second annual charity 'Banyan MercedesBenz Road Cruise 2016' from Bangkok to Hua Hin where the stunning 'Benz' caravan comprised of two dozen elegant German sport coupes and saloons driven by their owners, the members of the Mercedes-Benz Club Thailand, were welcomed at the luxurious Banyan The Resort Hua Hin by General Manager Sirirat Murphy.

The guest of honor was Dr. Prachin Eamlumnow, president and CEO of Grand Prix International Public Co., Ltd. Dr Prachin is a well-known organizer of the annual Bangkok International Motor Show 'BIMS' at Impact Muang Thong Thani.

The day under sunny clear skies included CSR activities, first a visit and mangrove planting at MEPSEC (Mangrove Ecosystem Preservation and Science Education Centre)

>> continued on L2

L2

events

Vol. 04 No. 04 | Feb 16-29, 2016

Banyan The Resort Hua Hin & Mercedes-Benz Road Cruise 2016 >> from L1

by Chiva-Som located near the iconic Hua Hin landmark Khao Takiab (Chopstick Mountain). This is the last remaining urban mangrove in Hua Hin sitting on piece of land donated by Khao Krai Lart temple. This ecosystem preservation project is developed and commissioned in honor and celebration of the 60th birthday anniversary of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Conceptual design by Silpakorn University.

In the afternoon the Mercedes-Benz Road Cruise 2016 caravan took all the participants to Ratchapakdi Park down southbound Petchkasem Road to pay homage to the seven great Thai monarchs. Seven giant, bronze statues in a 700-million-baht park is now a place for public education on Thai history and a tourist attraction.

Back at Banyan The Resort and time for tasting premium organic tea, Chaidim. Outside the entrance of Banyan The Resort Hua Hin the parking area looks like an exclusive car exhibition with 20 Mercedes-Benz motorcars; emblematic classic saloons; roadsters, coupes and the SLS Sports AMG super car variants.

The event ends on a high note with a gala dinner under the stars. Entertainment galore with a mini-concert by the legendary singers Joe and Kong of the Nuvo fame, Tang Mo and The Attention plus magic shows and raffle prizes with vouchers and gifts from Chiva-Som, True Arena, Mahasamutr Country Club Hua Hin, Bangkok Hospital, Bangkok Airways, Color Glo, Meguiar’s, PTT, Intercontinental Hotel Hua Hin and Banyan The Resort Hua Hin. During the evening 10 wheelchairs are donated to the Thai Red Cross in Hua Hin by Color Glo International Thailand, one of the main sponsors.

All proceeds of the funds raised at the charity dinner are donated to the Thai Red Cross in Hua Hin for various activities to serve the community.

This memorable event is supported by the governors of Prachuapkirikhan and Phetchaburi provinces, TAT Prachuapkirikahn by Khun Orasa Arwutkom, Mahasamutr Country Club Hua Hin by PACE Development Corporation Public Co., Ltd., Mercedes-Benz Thailand, Grand Prix International Public Co., Ltd., Meguiar’s Thailand Co., Ltd. and other sponsors.

Applause, high-five to the organizer, the sponsors and the participants of the memorable Banyan The Resort Hua Hin and Mercedes-Benz Road Cruise 2016.

eve n ts c a le n d a r PATTAYA VICE POOL PARTY Date: 20 February 2016, Saturday, 1-7 pm Venue: The Pool, Hotel Baraquda Pattaya Activities: With the weather heating up it’s time to don your Speedos or two-piece and join the first Hotel Baraquda Pattaya – VICE Pool Party of the year for an afternoon of fun, frolics and frivolity. With the theme of white or pink swimwear you’re guaranteed a splash-tastic time chilling to the happening House beats of DJs Dennis Frost, KC and VLADI while sipping on some cool drinks beside the uniquely-shaped pool. Admission fee is 300 baht with a free drink.

For more information: Hotel Baraquda Pattaya Tel: 038 769 999 Email: info@hotelbaraquda.com

SUNSET BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL 2016 Date: 20 February 2016, Saturday, 3 pm Venue: Ban Amphur Beach, Sattahip Activities: The music festival features artists including T-Bone, Job 2 Do, Singto Numchok, Srirajah Rockers, Zom Ammara, Thaidernlen, Mocca Garden, Miraculous, Gold Red, Deep ‘O’ Sea and Walrus. Door opens at 3 pm.

Tickets are priced at 900 baht and can be purchased via All Ticket Counter Service available at 7-Eleven outlets.

For more information: www.facebook.com/SunsetBeachMusicFest www.allticketthailand.com

SIT THE SKY – CHILEAN WINE TASTING Date: 27 February 2016, Saturday, 6:30 pm Venue: Sky Restaurant, Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya Activities: Pattaya’s wine lovers are invited to discover an all-new taste of Chilean wine presented by Independent Wine and Spirit (IWS) at the most valuable price of 799 baht net per person. The wine tasting will also feature live entertainment in a sky-high atmosphere on the 24th floor.

For more information: Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya Tel: 038 930 600 Email: fbd@siamatpattaya.com

HITMAN DAVID FOSTER & FRIENDS ASIA TOUR 2016 Date: 16 March 2016, Wednesday, 8 pm Venue: Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani Activities: A major music phenomenon for fans to experience the greatest timeless songs with the return of legendary songwriter and producer David Foster to Bangkok after his last concert four years ago. The Hitman will be collaborating with five world-class artists including Australian singer Natalie Imbruglia; American legend Peter Cetera; Melanie C of the famous pop group Spice Girls; contemporary music singer, songwriter and producer Richard Marx; and Gerphil Flores, a Filipino classical cross-over singer dubbed ‘Asia's Golden Girl’ on top-rated show Asia’s Got Talent. Tickets available at all branches of Thai Ticket Major.

For more information: Thai Ticket Major Tel: 02 262 3456 www.thaiticketmajor.com

L3

events

Vol. 04 No. 04 | Feb 16-29, 2016

Bangkok Hospital Pattaya hosts annual media party Bangkok Hospital Pattaya once again hosted a thank-you party for members of the media from Pattaya, Sri Racha, Bangsaen and Chonburi to express gratitude for their continuous support to the hospital.

The annual party held at Plathong Seafood Restaurant in Naklua was headed by Dr. Pichit Kangwolkij, CEO of Bangkok Hospital Group – Eastern Region, Siharat Lohachitranont, deputy hospital director, and Juthaporn Huyakorn, director of Business Development and International Affairs.

The hospital provided lucky draw prizes, which included appliances, watches and gold jewelry.

Level 34, Hilton Pattaya

L4

rendezvous

East Coast Kitchen Open 6.00am - 11.00pm Holiday Inn Pattaya Executive Tower, level 6 Call 038 725 555

Vol. 04 No. 04 | Feb 16-29, 2016

holidayinn.com

Tenor-Baritone Opera Recital at Intimate Hotel

Dusit Thani Pattaya gets the gold

D & M Music Studio and Intimate Hotel presented famous pianist, Piet van den Broek and Thai opera singers, tenor Surapong Wattananontachai, baritone Vuthiphand Pongtanalert and Mongkol Chayasirisobhon.

The concert featured songs like Ombra mai fu by George Frideric Handel, Lolita by Arturo Buzzi-Peccia, Mattinata by Ruggero Leoncavallo and Memory from Cats by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

For the next event, call Khun Mongkol on 081 682 8000 for more information and schedule. Tickets cost 700 baht and early bird booking at 600 baht to be paid one day in advance at Intimate Hotel and 200 baht for students available at the door only.

Dusit Thani Pattaya staff and management led by GM Chatchawal Supachayanont celebrate the Gold Certification achievement awarded to the Dusit brand hotel by EarthCheck, a leading scientific benchmarking, certification and advisory group for travel and tourism. The organization has assisted the resort and other properties of Dusit International in efforts to meet environmental standards to achieve higher levels of certification to show its commitment to global environmental issues.

Photo shows hotel Green Team committee which oversees operations and initiatives to maintain its eco-friendly status.

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort wins Pattaya Bed Race

Hilton Pattaya takes 3rd place in Bed Race

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya took first place at the 8th Pattaya Bed Race 2016. The fundraising activity was organized by Pattaya City Hall and the Rotary Club of Pattaya.

Miguel Maldonado, resort resident manager, led the 39-member team of hotel management and staff wearing The Flintstones-inspired costumes.

Hilton Pattaya’s General Manager Rudolf Troestler led the blue energy team members to third place in the 8th Pattaya Bed Race 2016, organized by Pattaya City Hall and the Rotary Club of Pattaya.

Out of 21 contestants, the Teddy Bear-themed Hilton Pattaya team won the third place; judging criteria included the most creative bed theme, attractive costumes, cheerful and fun parade, and finish position.

Centara Grand Mirage salutes Chonburi governor Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya led by Andre Brulhart (2nd left), area general manager, along with Sukanya Wongdornma (right), financial controller, and Daranat Nuchaikaew (left), director of Human Resources, presented a New Year’s hamper to Komsan Eakachai (2nd right), the provincial governor of Chonburi, at Chonburi City Hall.

Dicey Reilly’s hosts a wine tasting event

by Mick and Di Barker

Dicey Reilly’s, the popular Irish pub on Second Road, hosted a first-rate wine tasting event recently presenting a selection of wines from the life brand winery, Lightband from New Zealand. The company is owned and managed by Simon Prattley who produces premium quality grapes on his Mount Arthur Vineyard located in Brightwater, Nelson. He was present to introduce his product range and to discuss the merits of each label.

The first pouring of the evening was a straw yellow Chardonnay which, with its distinctive oak flavours and warm finish, made perfect partners with crispy, crunchy fried chicken legs and rock lobster canapés on potato discs. A golden Pinot Gris followed which was enjoyed with a selection of homemade burgers on black rolls and delicious succulent pork belly in oyster sauce. Our favourite of the evening was an exotic Gewurztraminer with its lower acidity and fresh fruit flavours (especially lychee); it paired brilliantly with nearly all of the creative finger food. However, a big red was needed to accompany the hearty but tender roast beef and Yorkshire pudding which attracted much attention and was a huge hit with guests who had never tasted this winning combination (especially drenched in the full flavoured gravy). A Pinot Syrah fitted the bill perfectly with its punch of flavours and peppery aftertaste; it was indeed a winning combination.

The cheese table was overloaded with a profusion of pickles and chutneys to accompany the Gouda, Emmental, Cheddar and Edam and the chosen wine which married so well was a Pinot Noir. Although lighter and lower in tannins than the Syrah, with its elegant balance and crisp finish, it is a wine that happily accompanies a host of flavours and cheese certainly is one of them.

100th birthday party at Royal Cliff Royal Cliff Hotels Group organized a memorable 100th birthday celebration for its top long-staying guest Franz Johan Ackermann at La Ronde – Pool Sensation of the Royal Wing Suites and Spa in the warm company of family, friends and the Royal Cliff team led by Managing Director Panga Vathanakul and General Manager Antonello Passa. A multilingual businessman and executive from Lugano, Switzerland, Franz has been a guest at the hotel for 34 consecutive years.

L5

escapades

Vol. 04 No. 04 | Feb 16-29, 2016

Amari Havodda Maldives now open

Private island hideaway features one of the largest infinity pools in the Maldives and a spectacular house reef Introducing Amari Havodda Maldives, a 120-villa private island hideaway located in the pristine Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll approximately 400 km south of the capital Male.

A lush tropical paradise in a secluded part of the Indian Ocean, Amari Havodda Maldives is situated within one of the largest atolls in the world, enveloped by stunning nature with tropical greenery, turquoise lagoons and white sandy beaches. A haven for diving, snorkelling and underwater discovery, the island is surrounded by a pristine house reef featuring spectacular coral zones and marine habitats.

The pristine setting of Amari Havodda Maldives is complemented by architectural detailing and interiors by Singapore-based French designer Isabelle Miaja, based on the concept of ‘natural simplicity’. Public areas and Beach Pool Villa

villas depict subtle elements from local island culture with carefully selected artwork, fittings and textures inspired by contemporary Maldivian motifs. The resort is also home to one of the largest infinity pools in the Maldives.

As part of a deep-rooted commitment to preserve and showcase the area’s natural environment, smart energy saving and harvesting systems are deployed throughout the entire island. The resort takes pride of its lush natural landscape, with over 95 percent of the island’s indigenous trees and plants catalogued and protected during construction. Overwater villas were built using special techniques and materials to minimise environmental impact to the pristine lagoon.

Construction and completion of the resort took just 14 months, making Amari the fastest hotel to be built and completed in the Maldives.

Pool

International food and Thai Cuisine Jomtien Bead Road Corner of Soi 8

Tel : 038 756698, 091 0564911 www.jomtien-boathouse.com

VISA

BRITAIN

NEW SERVICE

Renew Your UK Passport Without Visiting Bangkok The procedure for obtaining or renewing a British passport in Thailand is now complex. We can assist you, check forms and documents and submit the application and collect the passport on your behalf.

Overwater Villa

The latest offering in Amari’s growing collection of hotels and resorts across the Asia-Pacific region, Amari Havodda Maldives reflects the warmth and energy of an evolving modern Asia with brand-defining features such the market-style Amaya Food Gallery, Breeze Spa and contemporary space for sharing with loved ones, family and friends. Staffed by a multinational team, the resort is committed to creating memorable experiences that embody the spirit of local culture, as well as enhance the renowned traditions of Asian hospitality.

In celebration of its opening and Visit Maldives Year 2016, Amari Havodda Maldives is offering a special promotion.

Book now for arrival before April 30, 2016 to receive 40 percent off all villa categories. For more details, visit www.amari.com.

Amari Havodda Maldives

Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll Republic of Maldives Tel: +96 (0) 6844 888 www.amari.com/havodda-maldives

Our comprehensive visa services also include: - Visas for Thais visiting all countries worldwide - Visa extensions for foreigners in Thailand - Retirement, marriage and education visas - Company registration and work permits - Marriage service and registration - English teaching and test centre

Successful business record for almost 20 years

VISA2BRITAIN HEAD OFFICE 183/34 Soi 13/2 Moo 10 Pattaya City, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150

Mobile: 081 754 9342 or 084 362 6574 Tel: 038 711 145 Fax: 038 710 163 Email: changvisa@gmail.com

www.visa2britain.com

L6

top tables

Vol. 04 No. 04 | Feb 16-29, 2016

Mick & Di The Food Lovers

CAPRICE Chic, Sleek and Seductively Swish Located between Jomtien and Pattaya in a 64-acre private parkland estate overlooking the aquamarine bay of the Gulf of Siam regally sits the refined and elegant, Royal Cliff Hotels Group. From their coterie of restaurants and bars (11 plus 5), Mick and I were invited to dine at the award-winning Caprice.

Caprice is uber-chic, it’s sleek, it’s a seductively swish contemporary designer restaurant that oozes with sophistication and sweet charm.

Seating is either out on the graceful terrace or inside in its cool dining area which houses the white baby grand where its ivories are tinkled nightly by its resident pianist. It is a

Chicken Liver Pate and Pork Rillette

Prime Lamb Rack

Elderflower Mousse with Lychee Sorbet

What's Cooking?

350°F Homemade Bakery opens in Na Jomtien Malinee Suwansaenee, managing director and publisher of Pattaya Expat Magazine, opened 350°F Homemade Bakery on Sukhumvit Road between Soi Na Jomtien 32 and 30 opposite Chonburi College of Agriculture and Technology.

The new shop features bread rolls, cassava cake, toast, cold and blended drinks. It is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm.

Call 086 312 0141 for more information.

thefoodloverspattayatoday@msn.com must-visit for food and wine buffs to indulge in the good life Royal Cliff style; impeccable service by indulgent, caring servers, six-star cuisine and a wine list to match offers a privileged signature pick of the best labels from across the world. Not all wines are in the stratosphere of chateau bottled beauties as the resort prides itself on its carefully researched house wines for enjoyable quaffing at very reasonable prices from as little as B.1000++.

The weekly gourmet set dinner menu is only B.950 ++ per person and with the selected flight of wines still only B.1,510 ++. On the night we visited the menu started with a tomato and mozzarella salad, continued with coconut crusted shrimps with orange sauce, offered baked thyme and lemon flavoured chicken breast with sautéed Kenyan beans and grilled lemon concluding with an elderflower flavoured white chocolate mousse, coffee or tea and Royal Wing pralines.

Entry is through the Royal Wing Suites and Spa where you will be guided down to the sea-level restaurant. Inside, the ambiance is serene and tranquil with low-level lighting, muted colours and an aura of stylish calm.

Our evening commenced with a glass of Cornaro Prosecco, clean, crisp and fruity it was the perfect sparkler to launch the dishes to come. A green pea cappuccino admirably filled the role of amusebouche before our chosen appetizers arrived. Chicken liver pate and pork rillette plus beef carpaccio (B.350++) soon appeared on the table; gossamer slivers of premium beef peppered with shaven Parmesan and rocket were an instant hit across the table while I delighted in the silky

Chef Slava

softness of the liver pate with just an underlying hint of cognac. However, the absolute star of the plate was the other small preserving jar containing the rillette. This original version of pulled pork turned into a rich, powerful spread redolent with pork belly and herbs which surprisingly paired perfectly with the Italian bubbles.

Our main courses were then served, a roasted prime lamb rack for Mick and a chermoula spiced Antarctic toothfish medallion (B.950++) for me. Chermoula is a pungent Moroccan herb sauce (coriander, olive oil, cumin, garlic and more) which marries very well with all types of fish dishes. Here it had been used as a robust herb crust to pass on its tanginess to the superb portion of ice fish cod. The colour of mother of pearl it was served on top a verdant green pea puree with the added pleasure of two burnished endives. The rack of lamb was two cutlets treated with care and finesse, grilled to bronze, properly rested and accompanied by a flavoursome tangy ratatouille which Mick enjoyed with a glass of the house Cabernet Sauvignon.

We were then more than delighted to meet the man behind this pageant of gastronomy. He is

Chef Myroslav Pasechnyi, known as Chef Slava hailing from the Ukraine. A definite rising star in culinary circles; young, ambitious and enthusiastic he is to be congratulated on achieving this level of gastronomy so early in his career.

We couldn’t leave without trying at least one of the hotel’s legendary desserts. Chef chose for us an elderflower white chocolate mousse filled nougatine shell escorted by the best lychee sorbet we have ever tasted. This heavenly confection sweetly lowered the curtain on our dining out Caprice style.

Caprice fully deserves its Award of Excellence. Our dinner was a succession of triumphant dishes, beautifully cooked, perfectly seasoned, imaginatively presented and impeccably served. This is a place that does everything slightly beyond the call of duty. Ok, I’m gushing but the food was totally gushable and our evening faultless in every way.

Caprice – A Taste of Riviera Royal Wing Suites and Spa Restaurant open daily from 6:30 to 10:30 pm Bar open daily from 6 to 11 pm Tel: 038 250 151 www.royalcliff.com

L7

top tables

Vol. 04 No. 04 | Feb 16-29, 2016

F&B Promotions Chilled Asian Noodles at Oasis Restaurant, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya Casual Asian dining is elevated at “Noodles of the World” at Oasis. Beat the heat and enjoy the chilled noodle menu available throughout February 2016.

Oasis Restaurant is open daily from 6 am to 11 pm.

For reservations, call 038 714 981.

Miyazaki Beef in Teppanyaki Style

Salmon season is back at Terrazzo Restaurant, Holiday Inn Pattaya Terrazzo Restaurant invites salmon lovers to savour the delectable taste of Atlantic salmon in four different styles starting from 360 baht net, available daily from 2 to 10 pm until March 31, 2016.

Enjoy Salmon Papillote with spinach, Spicy Cajun Salmon with pesto-mashed potatoes at 650 baht net, Deep-fried Salmon and Tiger Prawn served with mixed salad at 680 baht net and Phad Krapow Salmon served with steamed rice at 360 baht net.

at Benihana Pattaya

For more information or reservations, call 038 725 555.

At Benihana – the renowned Japanese Steakhouse, “My Kitchen is Your Table” is brought to life through dynamic “eatertainment”. The joking, juggling chefs are ready to prepare some lip-smacking dishes with Miyazaki beef as the key ingredient. This exquisite cut of imported beef will tantalize your taste buds as you catch the action of the talented chefs!

Benihana Pattaya is located on the 2nd floor of Royal Garden Plaza.

Daily Promotions at Hooters Pattaya, Pattaya Beach Road Soi 13

For more information and reservations, contact Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa on 038 412 120 ext 1395.

Chiang Mai Strawberries at Vistas Lobby Lounge, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya highly recommends to taste Chiang Mai strawberries at Vistas Lobby Lounge. Picked at its peak this sweet juicy berry is featured in the resort’s sweet treats throughout February 2016.

Vistas is located in the main lobby of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, and opens daily from 9 am to 10 pm.

For more information or reservations, contact 038 714 981.

World-famous Magician on Wednesday at Mantra Restaurant & Bar, Amari Pattaya Mantra Restaurant and Bar has teamed up with Howard Posener, one of the finest close-up magicians in the world. Be amazed as he moves from table to table performing a large array of close-up magic.

Known as the ‘Millionaire's Magician’, Posener has performed for many monarchies throughout the world, and his personal clients include Dustin Hoffman, John Travolta, Sir Elton John and Barbra Streisand, to name a few.

Mantra Restaurant and Bar serves an international cuisine with a dynamic dining concept and is open from 6 pm to 1 am every day. Mantra Magic is every Wednesday from 7 to 9 pm.

For further information and reservations, contact 038 429 591 or email email@mantra-pattaya.com.

Enjoy Twice… for Once at Twilight Bar, Centara Grand Modus Resort Pattaya Enjoy the happy hour and get yourself a treat with two drinks for the price of one! Available daily from 5 to 7 pm and from 9 pm to 1 am.

This sophisticated restaurant, located on the 6th floor, offers highlight rooftop dining with wonderful view across Wong Amart Beach. Open daily for dinner from 5 pm to 1 am, the restaurant serves authentic modern bistro fare. Savour succulent tapas, handcrafted cocktails, and wines to pair.

For more information or reservations, contact 033 007 888 ext 33.

Hooters Pattaya offers daily promotions from 8 pm to 2 am: - Monday: All-you-can-eat chicken or cheese nachos + 1 free Moquila at 799 baht - Tuesday: All-you-can-eat BBQ ribs & a pint of Singha beer at 799 baht - Wednesday: All-you-can-eat wings at 599 baht and 2 for 1 on Magaritas - Thursday: All-you-can-eat quesadillas at 599 baht and 2 for 1 on Margarita jugs - Friday: All-you-can-eat fish and chips at 799 baht and 2 for 1 on all “Day of the Dead” shots from 11 pm to 12 am - Saturday: A bucket of Singha beer (6 bottles) + free fried jalapenos or pickles at 799 baht and 2 for 1 on all “Day of the Dead” shots from 11pm to 12 am - Sunday: All-you-can-eat burger sliders at 799 baht and all-day happy hour on drinks Call 038 415 318 for more details.

Shish Kebab at Flames, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya invites you to try the special Shish kebab available throughout February 2016.

Indulge in the flavours of the Middle East as Flames Restaurant showcases this old and ancient cooking method in the Chef's menu selections.

Flames Restaurant is located on the beachfront of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya and opens daily from 6 am to 11 pm.

Call 038 714 981 for reservations.

Japanese Sea Scallops on the menu at Infiniti Restaurant, Sheraton Pattaya Resort Plump and succulent sea scallops from the cold clean ocean off the coast of Hokkaido, Japan are being served from now till March 31, 2016.

Scallop salad with orange dressing, seared scallops with green pea sauce, roasted scallops with black ink clam jus, and scallops with cauliflower puree are all on the menu to be enjoyed against the magnificent setting of Pattaya Bay. Prices start from 850 baht ++ per dish.

For more information and reservation, contact 038 259 888 or info.pattaya@starwoodhotels.com.

For food promotions please email press release at lifeandleisure@pattayatoday.net

L8

top tables

Vol. 04 No. 04 | Feb 16-29, 2016

Sunset Lounge

thefoodloverspattayatoday@msn.com

HOTEL BARAQUDA PATTAYA M GALLERY COLLECTION Chef Vut

SEA Restaurant

Hotel Baraquda Pattaya (formerly Dusit D2 Baraquda Pattaya) is without doubt a futuristic structure sited in the heart of Pattaya’s nightlife on Second Road, adjacent to The Avenue leisure and shopping centre plus night market.

Once inside the wow factor is extraordinary. Dazzling white walls sculptured into waves, flowing pastel sofas, bleached hardwood floors and an ultra-modern greeting area pushes the envelope in hospitality zoning. We were there at the invitation of their charming Cluster Marketing Communications Manager, Thitima “Noon” Jaroonteeravanitch to join her for a cocktail and bite

to eat on their stylish Sunset Lounge located on the 6th floor with sensational views out over the vibrant skyscape of downtown Pattaya.

An industrial nautical theme resonates throughout the hotel and no more so than on the “deck” of this trendy lounge bar resembling the chicest cruise ship. It’s a great venue; snuggle into one of the comfy chairs, order a cocktail and watch the sun sinking into the Bay of Pattaya beyond. We were served their signature Baraquda cocktail as blue as the ocean with a profusion of special ingredients but with the underlying base of the

sailors favourite tipple, rum. DJ Uwi performs her exclusive set from 7 to 11 pm on Friday nights with the lounge closing nightly at 1 am.

It was now time to dip into their signature menu. Sunset mixed tapas (B.450) for Mick and Parma ham with honeydew melon (B.390) for me.

A quintet of savoury shot glasses contained spicy chicken satay, a crunchy fried fish finger, grilled salmon teriyaki, a Mozzarella kebab with plum tomatoes, a Parma ham wrapped crostini and a garnish glass containing fresh garden leaves to cleanse the palate between bites. It was a platter of pleasurable nibbles and we both enjoyed tucking into

the cocktail treats. I especially enjoyed the salty, meaty traits of the ham with the sweet melon providing an instant antidote to the slight thirst aroused by the saline factor.

Other starter dishes include seared duck foie gras with a berry emulsion (B.390) and any of the above mixed tapas served in starter proportions.

Main courses arrived showcasing their twin fish dishes (B.790), baked salmon fillet or sea bass papillote.

Tasty tagliatelle accompanied the sea bass baked in a foil parcel with roasted tomatoes whilst the salmon arrived on a bed of rainbow diced Mediterranean vegetables adding colour and another taste element to the premier fish. Dessert was well served with a fruity panna cotta (B.250), sweet and silky the Italian set custard was the perfect vehicle

for the soft fruits while the raspberry and white chocolate mousse (B.250) was a delight, again making very good friends with the fresh fruit.

It was then time to descend down to ground level and the all-day dining outlet called SEA (South East Asia) which offers an extensive pan-Asian menu from across the continent and beyond. The first attraction on the way was the stunning free-form swimming pool. An uber-high tech automation of changing colours with the backdrop of swaying palm trees and a profusion of leisure loungers and comfy seating.

We make no apologies for eulogising about the interior decor of this hotel; it is spectacular and the restaurant is no exception. The art is fantastic S.E. Asian-inspired pop graphics, the soaring glass walls evaporate into the avantgarde pool area, the spiral staircase offers elevated seating and the overall mood is young, vibrant and invigorating.

The five-star menu ranges from Mediterranean favourites such as French cold cuts (B.260), braised tomatoes with mozzarella and pesto, a trio of spicy satay, braised lamb shanks and croque monsieur before embracing the pan-Asian favourites.

Fried rice with pork, chicken, beef or prawns rub shoulders with stirfried pork with fresh chilli and basil or traditional Thai curries, plus a profusion of interesting Chinese soups and Thailand’s own Kao Tom. Pizzas are also available together with a kid’s menu to keep the little ones happy together with the ice cream and dessert menu.

The vibe at Hotel Baraquda Pattaya is young and laid-back with an energetic and enthusiastic staff.

It manages to combine glitz with groovy and contemporary chic with hip sophistication. For those with an appetite for something different – this is the place to visit.

Hotel Baraquda Pattaya MGallery Collection Signature Baraquda Cocktail

Sunset Mixed Tapas

Baked Salmon Fillet

Pattaya Second Road adjacent to The Avenue Tel: 038 769 999 www.hotelbaraquda.com

Hotel Promotions Beat the Bangkok bustle with a “spacation” at Amari Watergate Bangkok

Fabulous Weddings in the Garden at Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok

Ideal for those who want to extend the holiday season or just looking to beat the hectic city life, the Bangkok Retreat Spa-cation package will whisk guests off to a state of total relaxation.

The spa-cation experience includes a special in-room welcome from Breeze Spa comprised of delicious seasonal fresh fruits and specially selected bath ritual amenities, a two-hour Bangkok Retreat Treatment at Breeze Spa (feet rescue ritual followed by a full body massage), a deep-cleansing Oriental Rose Quartz facial, and a special gift to take home.

Package starts at 5,654 baht ++ per night in a Deluxe Room and available from now until December 31, 2016.

Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok offers a special wedding in the garden package starting from 190,000 baht ++ which includes flowers and floral decorations, a multi-tiered cake, scenic backdrops with bride and groom’s names, a complimentary luxurious dinner at one of the hotel’s grand restaurants, a complimentary one-night stay in a Honeymoon Suite inclusive of breakfast, two-night stay at Centara Koh Chang Tropicana Resort, plus an additional host of added benefits. The ceremonies and receptions will be held outside the hotel in the lush and ornate garden.

The package is available for reservation from now until June 30, 2016.

For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.amari.com/watergate/hotelpackage.

For reservations, contact Sales Department on 02 541 1234 ext 4210 or email cglbcatering@chr.co.th.

L9

Heaven for Spa Lovers

fairness-fitness-finery

Vol. 04 No. 04 | Feb 16-29, 2016

Be pampered with our special treatment

“After Festival Reviver” Devarana Spa, Pattaya Tel: (038) 3837 1044 Email: pattaya@devaranaspa.com

www.devaranaspa.com

Heart Attacks—Not for Men Only Does knuckle cracking cause arthritis?

Ladies, take note: Heart disease is as much a threat to you as it is to men.

Be aware of the symptoms and heed the warnings, because the disease is the leading cause of death in women as well as in men.

Such symptoms include: 1. Chest discomfort or pressure sensation 2. Arm discomfort 3. Shortness of breath 4. Sweating and clammy skin 5. Nausea 6. Stomach pain and feelings of indigestion Beyond which, during a heart attack women are more likely than men to experience unusual fatigue, sleep disturbances and anxiety, as well as throat, jaw and neck discomfort.

Unfortunately, women are at a disadvantage when it comes to heart health inasmuch as they are less likely than men to believe they're having a heart attack and,

therefore, are more likely to ignore the symptoms and put off seeking treatment.

People should not allow gender to influence their responses to heart concerns. If you experience the

above symptoms, don't delay calling for emergency assistance and reporting a suspected heart attack; the most effective window for treatment occurs during the first 60 minutes after symptoms manifest.

ABCs of dry skin care If you’ve got dry skin, there are several things you can do on your own to relieve the condition. Here are the ABCs of such care: Avoid long, hot showers. Hot water strips oils from the skin faster than warm water. Long showers or baths actually dry out your skin. Limit yourself to a single 5- or 10-minute warm shower or bath a day.

Baby your skin. Use a gentle cleanser or shower gel with moisturizer.

Instead of harsh cleansers, opt for unscented, soap-free, or mild soap cleansers.

Coat your skin with moisturizer while your skin is still moist. Pat (don’t wipe) your skin with a towel after you shower or wash your face or hands, leaving it damp. Apply a moisturizer within three to five minutes of washing to lock moisture in.

Many people who crack their knuckles have been warned that the habit causes arthritis. Well, the popping sound may annoy people around you, but several studies have determined that it probably won’t raise your risk for arthritis.

The “pop” of a cracked knuckle is caused by bubbles bursting in the synovial fluid, the substance that helps lubricate joints. The bubbles pop when you pull the bones apart, either by stretching the fingers or bending them backward, creating negative pressure.

Even if knuckle cracking doesn’t cause arthritis, there’s still good reason to kick the habit. Chronic knuckle-crackers are more likely to have swollen hands and reduced grip strength, and, according to some published reports, the practice can cause injuries as people try to crack their knuckles.

Energy levels typically skyrocket after you lose unwanted weight because carrying less weight means using less energy to simply get through day.

Additionally, weight loss improves oxygen efficiency, which leads to less huffing and puffing.

L10

automotive

Vol. 04 No. 04 | Feb 16-29, 2016

CHEVROLET

Colorado High Country 4x4 Truck Tough but a Smooth Rider

by Gee-Emm

True to its colors, its strong American DNA, the new Chevy Colorado High Country is a blend of style, comfort, technology, and diesel power.

by John K. Lindgren Chevy High Country Editor-in-chief: is the latest flagship carsanook.com model from General Motors Chevrolet Colorado pickup series. The entry-level High Country 2WD version costs 989,000 baht, while the 4WD variant retails for 1.049 million baht.

Miles away you'll immediately recognize the XL size iconic Chevrolet bowtie logo in front. Closer you'll see the dual-port grille in dark sport gray with chrome and slightly aggressive looking projector headlamps.

The side view reveals the bodycolored sports bar and the High Country badge DURAMAX referring to the engine and 4x4 at the rear indicates the off-road four-wheel traction. The Colorado High Country stands tall on the new bold 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels. Remember when pickup trucks came in three colors: black, white, and gray. Now, it's Sizzle Red Metallic or Orange Rock Metallic the paint job of our demo unit, which was easy to spot at the outdoor shopping mall crowded parking lots.

Interior, this is where the new Colorado High Country excels.

“Brownstone leather upholstery” is what Chevrolet calls it and it sure provides style and comfort. Pickup interiors never looked so premium. The new High Country is spacious, too. Four doors for easy ingress and egress plus ample space including armrest for rear seat passengers.

The driver has an electronically adjustable driver's seat for optimal driving position. The center console in shiny “Piano Black”. Piano black is the new terminology in elegant motorcar interior accents – now also in GM's pickup trucks.

The center console is also the hub

Spa Promotions Love Potions at Spa Cenvaree, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya Let Spa Cenvaree cast a romantic spell on you and your partner with this season’s Love Potions spa experience.

Hedonistic scents combined with sensual oils will create a memorable spell of romance.

The package includes floral foot bath, heavenly rose petal body scrub or romantic bubble bath, aromatic body massage with silky body oil, and a limited free gift of a special Potions Pouch filled with aromatic stones as a lasting memory of your romantic encounter.

Great deal for 90 minutes for 2,695 baht ++ per person. Available from February 1 until end of March 2016.

For more information or reservations, contact 038 714 967 or email spacenvareecmbr@chr.co.th.

Fruitful Love Passage at Devarana Spa, Dusit Thani Pattaya This month of love, let Fruitful Love Passage spa program convey your passionate messages to your sweetheart through Fruit of Love Body Scrub and Mellow Aromatic Oil Massage. Devarana Spa sets aside four different kinds of fruits and each one signifies romantic meaning – strawberry symbolizes love, watermelon signifies unity, grape stands for kindness and lemon means patience.

The cherished spa ritual starts with a 30-minute blissful skin polish using the fruits mixed with milk and griddled brown rice to deeply cleanse the skin. Complete the intimate experience in an evenly romantic setting with a 90-minute Mellow Aromatic Oil Massage, using gentle pressure to soothe tired and overworked muscles, relieving aches and pains and rebalance the body.

The 2.0-hour spa program is priced at 3,800 baht net per person or 7,000 baht net per couple and available throughout February 2016.

For more information, contact Devarana Spa at Dusit Thani Pattaya on 038 371 044 or pattaya@devaranaspa.com.

Delightful New Year for the MyLink bilingual infotainment connectivity with its 7-inch touchscreen. MyLink infotainment system with AM, FM, AUX, USB and Bluetooth connectivity through your smartphone applications. More goodies. Navigation System and for all the reversing routines: rear view or back-up camera. Without it parking and reversing would be a nerve-racking experience especially in obscure tight spaces with this tall and long vehicle. And Chevy's leather wrapped multifunction steering wheel for driver to control audio system and Bluetooth-connected phone. But, what I especially like is the cruise control on the steering wheel. So easy to operate.

One of the best in the business. When on the motorway, especially late at night, cruise control is recommended.

Saves fuel, too.

The engine under the hood is Chevy's state-of-the-art 2.8-liter, 4-cylinder, 16-valve Duramax turbo

diesel pumping out 200 horsepower mated to a smooth-shifting, 6-speed Active Select automatic transmission.

Tons of torque and impressive acceleration.

When High Country goes up-country, off-roading, there's HDC (Hill Descent Control) for a smoother, safer, more controlled descent and HSA (Hill Start Assist) prevents the vehicle from free-rolling when stopped or parked on a slope. It is automatically activated when the brake is manually released, holding the vehicle in place until the throttle is engaged.

Safety comes with double SRS airbags and safety belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

The Chevy Colorado steering wheel automatically collapses in the event of front impact.

Cruising around town, Pattaya, Bangkok and down the motorway was easier than I had expected including South Pattaya traffic jam. Commanding presence on the road and commanding view for the driver. The large side mirrors help to minimize blind spots. With millions of motorbikes – you need that.

The ride is comfy enough and high-speed stability is adequate. Notwithstanding, that this is a pickup built on a frame, but a high-tech, new generation pickup with a premium interior.

A truck for all seasons built by General Motors, Thailand Rayong manufacturing plant.

Chevrolet Colorado High Country 2.8L 4x4 Engine: 2.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo diesel Power: 200 hp Torque: 500 Nm Transmission: 6-speed automatic Top speed: 180 kph Fuel consumption combined: 13 kpl Price: 1,049,000 baht www.chevrolet.co.th

at Royal Garden Spa, Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa Celebrate the dawning of a brand new year with special packages designed to relax, rejuvenate and inspire radiant beauty throughout January, February and March 2016.

Melt away your tension, and pave the way for a perfect tropical experience: 30-minute aromatic steam and salt scrub followed by a 60-minute aromatherapy massage. Upon leaving, receive a complimentary Anantara body scrub, valued at 800 baht, to enhance your skin treatment ritual at home. Package price is 3,800 baht.

For more information and reservations, contact 038 412 120 ext 1711 or e-mail spa.pmrs@minor.com.

Shea Butter Skin Nourishing Package at Spa Cenvaree, Centara Grand Modus Resort Pattaya The 90-minute treatment starts with essence of mulberry tea and chrysanthemum flower scrub followed by a soothing massage with vanilla shea butter cream. Vanilla is more than just a pretty scent, the constituent of vanilla is a powerful antioxidant that helps skin repair cell damage.

Package includes foot ritual, mulberry tea and chrysanthemum flower scrub, and soothing vanilla shea butter massage.

Price is 1,800 baht ++.

For more information or reservations, contact 033 007 888 ext 21 or e-mail spacenvareecgmp@chr.co.th.

L11

diversions

Vol. 04 No. 04 | Feb 16-29, 2016

music / new releases This Unruly Mess I've Made – Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

upcoming movies at Major Cineplex The Avenue Pattaya ZOOLANDER 2

GODS OF EGYPT

Release Date Lead Actors

Director Writers Genre

Release Date Lead Actors

Director Writers Genre

More than three years after releasing their Grammywinning debut album The Heist, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis are back with their official sophomore LP, titled This Unruly Mess I've Made.

As with their first album, this next offering will be self-released, and is due out February 26, 2016.

The album arrives after the success of the group's comeback single, "Downtown," an ode to classic hip-hop that also featured pioneering MCs Kool Moe Dee, Grandmaster Caz and Melle Mel, which they performed at the MTV Video Music Awards last August. While the full tracklist has yet to be revealed, This Unruly Mess I've Made will also feature collaborations with Ed Sheeran ("Growing Up") and Leon Bridges ("Kevin"), the latter of which they performed at the American Music Awards in November.

99¢ – Santigold 99¢ is the upcoming third studio album by American recording artist Santigold, scheduled to be released

by Atlantic Records on February 26, 2016.

99¢ was preceded by three singles: "Can't Get Enough Of Myself" featuring B.C., which was released at the start of November 2015 along with the album art, "Who Be Lovin' Me" featuring ILOVEMAKONNEN released at the end of December and "Chasing Shadows" which was released mid January 2016, just after the album's release date was pushed back over a month.

Book Review

by Barry Kenyon

All roads lead to Rome There is no shortage of books on ancient Roman history, but new archaeological evidence is forever being dug up to change former perceptions. Even so, there is still much we do not know.

The city’s earliest history is lost in the myths of time. The traditional date for its founding is 753 BCE, but that guess was first made many centuries later by an ancient writer who was drawing up a chronological treatise.

Mary Beard (SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome, published by Profile) is certainly academic in approach, but it’s written in a breezy tone which invites a wider audience than other university professors like her. Beard’s major merit lies in debunking common legends about Roman history. Thus she is suspicious that Cleopatra committed suicide with an asp or any other kind of snake, a notoriously hazardous undertaking: poisonous reptiles were too big to hide in a fruit basket in any case. The snake story owes more to Shakespeare and Hollywood than ancient sources and it is just as likely that

February 18, 2016 Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Will Ferrell, Penélope Cruz, Kristen Wiig Ben Stiller Justin Theroux, Ben Stiller Comedy

Derek and Hansel are modelling again when an opposing company attempts to take them out from the business.

February 25, 2016 Gerard Butler, Nikolaj CosterWaldau, Brenton Thwaites Alex Proyas Matt Sazama, Burk Sharpless Adventure | Fantasy

The Egyptian god of darkness Set takes over the throne of the Egyptian empire. A mortal hero, Bek, allies with the Egyptian god Horus in a mission to save the world and to rescue his love.

the Egyptian queen was murdered by the Roman general Octavian (later Augustus) after he defeated her and Mark Antony at the battle of Actium.

Other commonly held notions, dismissed by Beard, are that Hannibal cracked open chunks of rock in the Alps which were barring his way – surely not – and that Caligula ordered his men to collect seashells as if they symbolized a victorious battle over the ocean. This latter story probably owes its origin to a confusion about the Latin term “musculi” which has two meanings – shells and military huts. So maybe the soldiers were dismantling their temporary accommodation rather than hunting shells.

This is certainly an entertaining book, full of the kind of stories which attract people to ancient history in the first place. Take for example the prevalence of war propaganda in Roman wars. When the Romans were besieging towns, they would hurl from catapults large stones with scribbled messages such as “May this hit your stomach” or “Now you die”, reminiscent of the chalked scribblings which were put on bombs destined to attack the Third Reich during the Second World War, such as “F*** O** Hitler”.

Statue of Beard also has some amazing Augustus tidbits of information about the private life of the emperor Augustus, drawn from the imperial biographer Suetonius, that he used to shave his legs with red hot nutshells to make them smooth.

STRICTLY BETWEEN US

By JANE FALLON 9781405917674 Tamsin and her best friend Michelle have been inseparable since they were teenagers. Even now they spend all their time together, along with Patrick, Michelle’s handsome husband. So when Tamsin hears a rumour that Patrick is having an affair, she is furious. Unwilling to ignore it, Tamsin plots a scheme to catch Patrick in the act...

Mary Beard

Yet the breezy tone belies the serious academic weight behind this tome of nearly 600 pages. The author wants us to understand that many of our assumptions about power, citizenship and daily life all come from the ancient Romans. We still use the term Pontifex Maximus, the head of the priests of the pagan gods, for the Pope in the Vatican today. The Romans fretted about traffic chaos in Rome – and tried to ban wheeled traffic by day – just as we worry today.

The very notion that officials should be elected is a Roman notion to which we still pay lip service today.

Was the British empire of the 19th century an attempt to create again its ancient Roman predecessor? Probably not. The Romans envisaged their empire lasting for all time, whereas the British imperialists who made one quarter of the globe technically belonging to Queen Victoria always knew the conquest could not last forever. The late Roman dilemma of what to do about the incursions of the Goths and the Vandals into the empire in some ways mirrors contemporary European preoccupation with the Muslim refugee crisis.

We can learn a lot from the Romans. If we choose to.

EMPIRE OF THINGS: HOW WE BECAME A WORLD OF CONSUMERS, FROM THE FIFTEENTH CENTURY TO THE TWENTY-FIRST

By FRANK TRENTMANN 9780713999624 What we consume has become the defining feature of our lives: our economies live or die by spending, we are treated more as consumers than workers, and even public services are presented to us as products in a supermarket. In this monumental study, acclaimed historian Frank Trentmann unfolds the extraordinary history that has shaped our material world, from late Ming China, Renaissance Italy and the British Empire to the present. Astonishingly wide-ranging and richly detailed, Empire of Things explores how we have come to live with so much more, how this changed the course of history, and the global challenges we face as a result.

Pattaya Today's lifestyle, travel and culture guide

L iv I N G

i n

stY L e

Life & Leisure is published forthnightly every 1st and 16th of the month and distributes a large number of complimentary copies to various high turn over establishments, including hotels, restaurants, hospitals, and coffee shops, and hundreds of copies are distributed via mail to the CEO’s, directors and managers of top companies across Thailand. Views of named writers are not necessarily those of the editors or publisher. The editor reserves the right to accept, reject or amend any submitted artwork, photographs, illustrations and manuscripts. LIFE & LEISURE is published by Siamese Vision Media Co., Ltd. Address: 263/119 Moo 12, Soi Chaiyapruek 2, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Phone: 038 076 062

publisher & editor Chanphen Prasinchai

printed by Print 87 Co., Ltd. Naklua, Pattaya City 20150

editorial graphic designers accounting Anantha Thiptong Suriyan Jarernphum Nattaporn Tepjantee Somboon Panich Sa-ard Noontabun

ditribution officer Thanaya Supphanuttanon

For advertising please call 089 607 9850 E-mail: lifeandleisure@pattayatoday.net SEE US ONLINE at www.pattayatoday.net/lifeandleisure

Property ONYX appoints Rijnders as senior VP and area GM in Pattaya

page P4/24 >> Volume 5

Issue 3

16-29 february 2016

Sands Pratumnak Beach Soi 5 hosts thank you party

Sands Condominium hosted a grand party to celebrate EIA approval, mark the beginning of construction, and thank all clients for their support.

Pattaya Deputy Mayor Ronakit Ekasingh and Rattanachai Suttidechanai, chairman of Tourism and Culture of Pattaya City Council, were guests of honor, while Thai singer Da Endorphine entertained guests with her one-hour concert.

Located on Pratamnak Soi 5, Sands Condominium is nestled in a quiet upmarket residential area near Yinyom Beach. Covering an area of 2 rai, the 27-storey

What's Inside: Property

Where are the buyers?

page P2/22

project will consist of 284 contemporary units looking onto a palm-fringed secluded beach. The design focuses on quality and modern style, combined with a fantastic location.

It was revealed at the event that 80 percent of the project sales have been reached (of which 60 percent Thai and 40 percent foreign buyers) and sold out expected by the middle of this year. Sales spiked after the project has been awarded with EIA approval.

Visit the onsite showroom open daily from 10 am until 7 pm.

http://pattayatoday.net/newspaper/property-business/ Business News Thailand's popularity across Asia drives tourism boom

page P6/26

Legal Advice Right of Superficies in Thailand

page P7/27

Classifieds

Expat Money Corner

See us online at http://pattayatoday. net/businessdirectory

page P7/27

page P8/28

Kids’ education – a major expense for expatriates!

P2/ 22

Volume 5

Issue 3

16-29 February 2016

Property WHERE ARE THE BUYERS? People who know me and/or have been following my articles for any length of time know that about once every year or two I come across another writer’s work that I really appreciate and think is interesting enough to get out to the public, so I offer my full page to share their thoughts.

This is one of those interesting, well-written articles; it appeared in Pattaya’s own Real Estate Magazine.

Although it begins as a negative overview of the local real estate market, I give the publication credit, as we both see a very bright future coming Pattaya’s way.

WHERE ARE THE BUYERS?

by Bart Walters, REM (Real Estate Magazine), www.REMthai.com

Bart Walters The language of real estate is chock-full of buzzwords and phrases; many of which aren’t fully understood or properly used.

Certainly everyone reading this essay has heard mention of a “seller’s market” or a “buyer’s market”. But, to accurately characterize a business environment, a deeper understanding and accounting for all variables is called for.

No sellers: Currently I reside in a

beach resort town similar to Pattaya, only in the United States. As of last month there was an estimated six months of real estate inventory. What that means is that if no new property came on the market for the next six months, we’d run out of condos and houses to sell.

More buyers than sellers … this is a classic example of a “seller’s market” … or at least it is supposed to be. But, because so many owners bought into the market at its peak in the early 2000s, they are still insolvent.

While prices have returned heartily in the past couple of years, many would-be sellers are reluctant to put their property on the market.

To use another real estate buzz phrase … they are still “upside down”. Not only can they not achieve any capital gain, they wouldn’t even recover their initial investment.

So, while the situation looks and smells like a “seller’s market”, we have the ironic phenomenon of a “seller’s market” with no sellers. The result is a stagnation waiting for prices to rise.

No buyers: Flip the property coin over and you’ll discover the situation you have in Pattaya. The amount of real estate inventory in that little slice of paradise needs to be measured in years, not months.

Even though developers have restricted the number of new launches in the first half of the year, some 18,000 units remain for sale from the 68,400 that were launched between 2011 and H1 2015.

So, with more sellers than buyers, this should define a classic “buyer’s market”. Too many sellers chasing too few buyers … bargain hunters and property vultures should be out in force … but they’re not.

by Clayton Wade Managing Director

Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. clayton@premierinternational.com

We have a “buyer’s market” with no buyers!

In the example of the seller’s market, we know why there aren’t enough sellers; namely the aftermath of a recent recession. But what flyin-the-ointment variable is stalling Pattaya’s buyer’s market? Where have all the buyers gone?

Russians, coups and currency: For most of the past decade, Pattaya has enjoyed a steady flow of buyers from Russia. But the Russian gold rush ended rather abruptly last year when oil prices plummeted, the ruble crashed and the US and its allies imposed sanctions on Mr Putin for messing with the Ukraine. The flow of Russians and their capital dried up in the blink of an eye.

In an article that appeared in the Bangkok Post, Surachet Kongcheep, associate director of Colliers International Thailand, said: “Foreign tourist arrivals have

speculated units were added.

And, the fact that a military junta took control in May 2014 put the brakes on a property market that was steadily heating up. According to The Nation, the imposition of martial law understandably affected consumer confidence in both locals and foreigners. Regarded by many as a second-home city, Pattaya’s market was especially vulnerable to potential buyers holding off on making purchases.

Baht beating: Perhaps the most significant barrier to attracting buyers has been the strength of the baht.

Holding steady at around 32 baht to the US$, property and all other things Thai just haven’t been the bargain they used to be.

[Notation: Since this article was written, the baht has slipped to about 36 baht to the dollar; buyers are still not attracted.]

Ten years ago an investor could buy with foreign currency, hold a few years and sell for the same price and realize up to 30 per cent gain on

dropped, particularly Russians, who were the main condo buyers in Pattaya.”

Surachet noted that the oversupply figure could climb up to more than 22,000 if the number of

currency alone. Who needs capital appreciation when you can get windfall currency gains? Those days are long gone … or are they?

After a long bullish run, the baht is finally weakening. In fact, all

Our very special thanks to Clayton Wade, managing director of Pattaya’s Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd., for preparing this Pattaya Today column.

Clayton Wade is managing director of Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd., the Eastern Seaboard’s leader in exclusive property sales and rentals, and managing director of Premier Land and Development Co., Ltd. Clayton Wade has been running Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd., with his wife, Khun Supap, for more than 20 years. He himself has been in the real estate industry for over 30 years, having started his career in the United States where he was licensed and practiced both real estate sales and property management in Seattle, Washington.

Wade is a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) and a CIPS certification instructor

with the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in the United States. He is an instructor with the Thailand Real Estate and Business School (TREBS) and heads the International Marketing Committee as vice president for the Real Estate Sales and Marketing Association of Thailand. He also is a council member with the Gerson Lehrman Group, the New York-based international research and consulting firm, and is a registered consultant with the Coleman Research Group in Hong Kong. He has been a national panel judge with the Thailand Property Awards for almost 10 years.

Having done business successfully in the Eastern Seaboard/Pattaya area for over 20 years, Clayton Wade is known throughout the Asia-Pacific region for his public speaking and television presentations as well as

Southeast Asian currencies are falling at an accelerating rate. Good news for exporters. Good news for foreign real estate buyers. Thailand comes in near the middle of the pack with a 6.4 per cent drop (see below).

More importantly, the pivot towards the burgeoning Chinese market is about to gain some serious traction. Even though China’s currency has swooned in recent months, it’s still up 19 per cent on the baht over the past five years, making property acquisitions by mainland Chinese oh-so-attractive.

And now the Chinese are actually being encouraged by Beijing to buy property in Thailand.

According to Property Report Asia: “The long-term outlook for Pattaya could still look up, especially as more Chinese investors become major consumers of real estate in the Kingdom upon the national implementation of the Qualified Domestic Individual Investor (QDII2) program in mainland China.”

The Beijing-led QDII2 program – which would allow Chinese investors to directly invest overseas in stocks, bonds and real estate – estimates that Chinese outbound investors could spend up to US$2.3trn on residential property alone due to the easing of capital export restrictions in China.

Andrew Taylor, co-CEO of leading Chinese real estate portal Juwai.com has said: “Chinese buyers are taking advantage of their strong currency and proximity to Thailand to invest in vacation homes and investment properties.”

Based on the latest data from Juwai.com, Thailand has advanced from the 10th most popular country with Chinese buyers to 9th place, with Pattaya, Koh Samui, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Bangkok (in that order) as the five most popular destinations.

Mr Taylor went on: “Chinese businessmen with commercial interests in Thailand were among the first buyers of local residential real estate. Now, you see vacationers and investors joining their ranks.”

New fuel: Perhaps it is unfair to characterize Thailand’s and, in particular, Pattaya’s property market as a buyer’s market with no buyers.

It may be more accurate to view the real estate market as a big diesel development machine in the process of switching fuel from Russians to the Chinese.

And as we all know … that’s a whole lot of fuel.

A very special thanks to Real Estate Magazine for a very good look at Pattaya real estate today!

having written regularly for leading newspapers and magazines (Bangkok Post, Thailand Property Report, Tropical Homes Magazine, Real Estate Magazine Thailand, Big Chilli Magazine, Tattler Magazine, Homes and Condos Magazine, etc.).

The American-born entrepreneur is known throughout the Asia-Pacific region for his many accomplishments in promoting real estate on Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard include having been a guest speaker with several of Thailand’s top political and business figures on CNBC’s Managing Asia.

Premier Homes is Pattaya’s leader in exclusive property sales and rentals. Visit their website at www.premierinternational.com. Clayton Wade may be contacted at +(66) (81) 634-2915 or at clayton@premierinternational.com.

P4/ 24

Volume 5

Issue 3

16-29 February 2016

Property ONYX appoints Rijnders as senior VP and area GM in Pattaya Thailand-based ONYX Hospitality Group has appointed Robert Rijnders as its senior vice president and area general manager for Pattaya.

Rijnders started working with Amari Hotels and Resorts since the early 1980s; the very beginning when Amari was still known as Siam Lodge Group of Hotels.

Being with the company for over 30 years, his multi-property operations experience has provided the firm better understanding of different traditions, cultures and business acumen of the hospitality industry.

Commenting on his executive move at ONYX, Rijnders said, “My journey with ONYX started in Pattaya, where I was the executive assistant manager at Nipa Lodge Hotel in 1981 when the company only had three hotels. I spent many of the early years in Pattaya, and I am very much looking forward to overseeing our existing properties here, as well as the up and coming ones. It is a very exciting time for ONYX, as we expand into new territories, and develop new and additional properties in existing ONYX regions. Scheduled to open in May, Amari Residences Pattaya will be the third Amari property to open in 2016 following earlier

launches in the Maldives and Koh Samui. The property will feature 173 modern units ranging from studios to two-bedroom units.”

With expertise in operational guidance and hands-on management, Rijnders will be overseeing the five existing Pattaya properties: Amari Pattaya, Amari Nova Suites Pattaya, Nova Gold Pattaya, Nova Park Pattaya and Nova Platinum Pattaya.

Rijnders will also manage the preopening and opening of ONYX’s two newest properties in the region: Amari Residences Pattaya and Nova Express Pattaya.

For more information, visit www.amari.com/pattaya-hotels.aspx.

Hayden Edgtton named GM of Movenpick Siam Hotel Pattaya Mövenpick Hotels and Resorts has appointed veteran hospitality professional Hayden Edgtton as general manager of the new Mövenpick Siam Hotel Pattaya.

The 262-room property opened on February 6, 2016, delivering the first five-star hospitality experience on pristine Na Jomtien Beach. It is a statement in elite beachfront accommodation, gourmet cuisine and superb destination choices such as yachting and island exploration.

"Hayden is an experienced, passionate and hugely respected hotelier who has long been an integral part of the Mövenpick family," said Andrew Langdon, Mövenpick Hotels and Resorts senior vice president Asia. "He has a great understanding of what makes us one of the world's leading upscale hospitality brands, and that invaluable knowledge and experience will be put to excellent use getting the Mövenpick Siam

Hotel Pattaya off to a flying start."

Edgtton has honed his hospitality, creative and business acumen from more than 20 years in the industry, beginning with his first job in 1994, at Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts in New Zealand, and continuing in Vietnam, Australia and the Middle East.

In 2004, he opened and operated his own Japanese restaurant and lifestyle magazine in Australia. His meticulous attention to detail, respect for local cultures and people, and management skills led him to Mövenpick Hotels and Resorts in 2010 as executive assistant manager of the pre-opening team at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers in Dubai.

Edgtton was promoted to general manager in 2012 and oversaw its successful opening.

Under his leadership the property was awarded top spot in the New Hotel Construction and

Design category at the Arabian Property Awards 2014-15. It was also honoured as a Green Globecertified sustainable business.

Hayden said, "It's a great privilege to be entrusted with the launch of any Mövenpick Hotels and Resorts. This job is particularly exciting, as Pattaya stands on the cusp of great changes towards a more family friendly destination, and we aim to be an agent of change in that regard.

"This is the dawn of an exciting new era of upscale hospitality at beautiful Na Jomtien Beach. What also awaits is an immaculate, highly personalised natural service that blends Swiss efficiency with Thai warmth, and I look forward to ensuring that's what we deliver to all of our guests."

Ocean Residential Property hosts Ocean Racing Day Ocean Residential Property hosted Ocean Racing Day for real estate agents at Easy Kart Bali Hai Pier. More than 200 agents and employees of real estate agencies and property developers participated at the event.

Naparat Tadsonthi, managing director of Ocean Residential Property, said that the activity is hosted to promote good relationships among the real estate agents and to stimulate the economy in Pattaya.

The go-kart race was divided into male and female categories and the top three winners were Thailand Property (1st place), Top Ocean Property (2nd place) and Plotter Property (3rd place) for male division and Ocean Residential Property (1st place), Premier Homes (2nd place) and ZET Estate (3rd place) for female division. Winners received a trophy and a cash prize.

P5 / 25

Volume 5

Issue 3

16-29 February 2016

Property Savills expands Thailand platform with new associate

Yangon’s Real Estate Market Cools Down in 2015

But demand in 2016 should improve as the new government is formed

Left to right: Savills (Thailand) Limited Director Mark Vinton and Robert Collins with Nexus Property Consultants Company Limited Executive Directors Nalinrat Chareonsuphong and Teerawit Limthongsakul.

International real estate advisor Savills has extended its Thailand network by forming a new association with Nexus Property Consultants Co. Ltd. (Nexus).

The alliance is the first of its kind between two leading real estate advisors in Thailand. The integration of Savills’ and Nexus’ service offerings combines international standards with local knowledge, allowing both companies to provide clients with a full range of real estate services and advice. Internationally, the alliance is well positioned to provide real estate solutions for foreigners interested in investing in Thailand, and for Thai investors seeking to gain access to international residential and capital markets. The alliance gives Savills an expanded foothold in the Thai real estate market and increases the firm’s presence in Southeast Asia to 59 operations across 17 countries in the region.

Robert Collins, CEO of Savills Thailand, comments, “We have observed increasingly strong growth in our Thailand business, covering all aspects of the property market. This association with Nexus will allow us to leverage their local expertise,

further strengthening the Savills brand across this dynamic region. We believe this association will allow us to provide clients with the very best service and advice across Thailand.”

Located in Bangkok, Nexus is a leading advisor, previously an independently owned member of Cushman & Wakefield alliance, with a strong background in real estate consultancy, valuation and new development sales. Nalinrat Chareonsuphong, executive director of Nexus Property Consultants Co. Ltd., says, “Savills has an established presence throughout Asia Pacific as well as a substantial global platform and international client base. We are very excited to be working with Savills, which will allow us to continue providing best in class advice and offer our services to clients throughout Thailand.”

Christopher Marriott, CEO of Savills Southeast Asia, adds, “We are very pleased to have formed this alliance with Nexus, which is part of our wider strategy to grow our Thailand business. In Nexus, we have a partner with distinct local expertise in research, valuation and project marketing.”

by JLL Over the past several years, Myanmar’s economic capital of Yangon has enjoyed a flurry of real estate activity following the loosening of military rule and a gradual process of liberalisation. However, 2015 proved to be a fairly quiet period for the city’s real estate as the market cooled in the run up to November’s elections and the torrent of foreign investment slowed, causing office rents to slide and residential sales to come to a halt, according to JLL, a professional services firm specializing in real estate.

“After peaking near US$100 per sqm per month in mid-2013, Grade A office rents have since tumbled by 35-40 percent as new supply has entered the market, yet despite the decline in rents, occupancy has fallen, most noticeably in existing projects,” explains Andrew Gulbrandson, head of Research and Consulting for JLL Thailand who is responsible for coordinating much of the firm’s ongoing consultancy work in Myanmar.

Observations by JLL shows most tenants have sought less expensive accommodations in newer non-prime buildings and other alternatives such as villas, hotels, and retail centres, while some have left the market.

“Based on feedback from our clients in the country, many occupiers are still in the wait-and-see mode adopted before the election.

As a result, it’s likely that the first half of 2016 will be relatively quiet before activity picks up in the second half when the new administration is in control,” says Gulbrandson.

Foreign investors have played an important part in the early development of Yangon’s real estate

markets with investment coming from all over Asia; from well-known developers based in Singapore, Korea, and Japan to lesser known but equally impactful investors from Thailand, Hong Kong, China, and Vietnam. The market is also attracting investment from more global investors, including the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank.

To date, IFC has disclosed investments totaling almost US$200 million in project specific engagements such as the Shangri-La Hotel and Executive Residences as well as entity-level investments, such as the recent USD 25 million loan to CityMart – Myanmar’s leading supermarket operator.

“Based on recent discussions with clients, foreign interest across sectors in Myanmar is still very high. However, with numerous limitations in a number of sectors, but most pertinently, banking, we may see lower levels of foreign investment in 2016 than in previous years,” says Gulbrandson.

Looking ahead, Gulbrandson believes that 2016 will be a year of moderation and perhaps even stabilisation in the city’s real estate market as a whole.

“Though many challenges remain, we believe the outlook for this dynamic landscape in 2016 to be positive,” says Gulbrandson.

“So far, the formation of the new government has been smooth, easing concerns over the postelection political uncertainty.

Ongoing ambiguity over the structure of the new government that has built up legislative backlog affecting a number of regulations should be eliminated when the new government is formed.

Many business activities that have been held due to these concerns should resume and should help encourage demand in Yangon’s real estate market. In addition, a more cautious approach that investors and developers have taken should lead to a decline in future development project launches, allowing the existing supply to be gradually absorbed,” he explains.

Buying property in Thailand: Some Pitfalls for Foreigners Thailand is a beautiful country with a wonderful cultural heritage.

Foreigners often want to buy property here, perhaps as a place to retire, or a second home for vacations, or as an investment.

News events out of Thailand can sometimes diminish foreigners' enthusiasm for buying property, but only temporarily. Overall, however, it is very resilient. After dipping for a few months, it always comes back.

People who look longer term realize that trouble happens all over the world and continue with their plans to live in Thailand.

Unwary buyers who don't take time to understand the Thai legal system can find the experience frustrating and expensive. For example, foreigners can own buildings in Thailand, but it is illegal for them to own land. That does not prevent unscrupulous people from taking their money. Fortunately, if you seek proper legal advice, as you

should anyplace in the world, you can avoid the pitfalls.

Proper legal procedures According to Siam Legal International, preparation to buy property in Thailand has some basic steps. First, of course, you need to find a local lawyer who can guide you through all of the legal processes and help you negotiate a proper contract.

Although as a foreigner you may not own land in Thailand, you can own a house or other structure built on the land. You can lease land or can set up a Thai Limited Company of your own, and the company will actually hold legal title to the land for you.

In either case, you can build a house on the property and own it. Most foreigners, however, simply purchase condominiums or apartments.

There are legal restrictions on the percentage of foreigners who may live in a condominium development or apartment house, but they are less

troublesome than obtaining land.

Clearly, you shouldn't navigate your way around these restrictions and regulations on your own.

You also need to work through a property agent. When you're purchasing property in your home country, you might be able to save some money by purchasing directly from an owner or developer. Even so, using a real estate agent can save time, trouble, and money. Just think how much more important it must be to find someone in a foreign country who knows the area, the housing that's available, and property values.

Once you have decided what you want to buy, you need to be sure that the seller has legal title. As is the case wherever you live now, a title search will trace ownership of the property from the first registered owner to the present owner. It will also tell you if there are any liens on the property, or if there are any zoning regulations or environmental conditions that will restrict what kind of structure

you can build, if that is your intention.

Next, you need to put down a deposit. At that point, the seller will start working on drafting the contract. Your lawyer should make sure that the contract includes a clause that will allow you to get out of the deposit agreement in case the title search doesn't show that the seller has clear and legal title or if you and the seller cannot agree on other terms of the contract.

Without such a clause, your deposit is nonrefundable.

Remember, the seller writes the contract. It will contain a clause that imposes a penalty on you for late payment. That is another reason you need to have a lawyer to review all of the terms and conditions in the contract and to make sure all of your interests are protected.

Finding the property you want Before you search for a lawyer or property agent, you can do a lot

of work online. A company like DDProperty will help you find your home on their website. You can search by province or district—or even neighborhood if you know the name of one. You can check homes for sale, or rent, or with an option to buy. You can choose a price range.

You can specify how many bedrooms you want.

With a little research, you can learn about neighborhoods and their amenities, such as transportation or shopping. You can decide if you want to live close to popular tourist destinations or farther away.

If you want to buy a property for investment, you can find advice on which locations will give you the best return.

Buying property in Thailand can be complicated. With careful research and the advice of your lawyer and property agent, you can work through the complications and find a property you will love.

P6 / 26

Volume 5

Issue 3

16-29 February 2016

Business News Royal Cliff and PEACH awarded Thailand MICE Venue Certificate for Excellent Service and Quality Royal Cliff Hotels Group and Pattaya Exhibition And Convention Hall (PEACH) has recently been awarded the Thailand MICE Venue Standard Certificate by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB).

Michael Goh (left), director of Events of Royal Cliff Hotels Group and resident manager of Pattaya Exhibition and Convention Hall, received the Certificate from Deputy Prime Minister General Tanasak Patimapragorn.

Meeting rooms in the Royal Cliff Beach Hotel, Royal Cliff Grand Hotel and PEACH exceeded the required standards.

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau or TCEB implemented an effective tool to measure

service excellence and quality, especially for MICE venues, in order to elevate MICE services and standards for operators in Thailand and ASEAN. This prestigious certification has to be

renewed every three years, in order to maintain the level of excellence and serves as business guidelines for investments, operations and management, and marketing support.

Thailand's popularity across Asia drives tourism boom

by Tourism Authority of Thailand, www.TATnews.org Powered by a surge in Asian tourists, Thailand’s visitor arrivals in 2015 hit an all-time record of 29.88 million (+20.44 percent) and generated around 1.44 trillion baht, up 23.39 percent over 2014 in Thai tourism revenue.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor, Dr. Yuthasak Supasorn, said, “It was another remarkable year in 2015. The performance endorses the scope and effectiveness of the 2015 Discover Thainess campaign and its success in restoring travel confidence.”

The latest data released by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports indicated 21,275,750 visitors, or a 71.20 percent market share, were sourced in Asia, which generated about 821 billion baht in revenue.

Asian markets dominated the country’s top-10 list.

China gained the top spot for the second year in a row

generating 7,934,791 visitors, up 71.14 percent on 2014.

Malaysia, in second place, delivered 3,423,397 arrivals representing an increase of 30.99 percent over 2014.

Four more Asian ‘plus million’ markets followed: Japan (1,381,690), Korea (1,372,995), Lao PDR (1,233,138), and India (1,069,149).

Delivering a respectable 4.30 percent increase, the UK market closed the year in seventh place with 946,919 visits, the highest performance in Europe.

Singapore followed in eighth place supplying 937,311 visits up 11.04 percent.

Russia, despite a decline, closed the year in ninth place with 884,085 visitors.

In tenth place, the USA market grew 13.62 percent to deliver 867,520 visits.

The regional overview

placed East Asia, which includes ASEAN, top with 19.87 million visits representing a market share of 66.5 percent. This region generates nearly 760 billion baht in income to Thailand.

Despite the economic situation, Europe remained second with a market share of 18.84 percent or 5.63 million visitors with 408 billion baht in revenue.

There were encouraging, bright spots in the region, indicating that Thailand’s traditional markets remain resilient.

Noteworthy examples were Italy, recording an 11.90 percent increase to 246,066 visits; Spain with 150,940 visits improving 29.03 percent; Germany with 760,604 visits up 6.34 percent, and France 681,097 visits up 7.25 percent.

South Asia was third with a market share of 4.70 percent on 1.4 million arrivals generated income to Thailand

Maya Bay, the main tourist attraction of Koh Phi Phi

ONYX and Singapore Hospitality Holdings enter strategic alliance ONYX Hospitality Group has entered a strategic alliance with Singapore Hospitality Holdings to accelerate the growth of the OZO and Shama portfolio across the Asia-Pacific and Middle East.

A newly formed joint venture established by both partners is targeted to open 46 OZO and Shama properties in key Asia-Pacific city and resort destinations by 2024.

The partnership will boost ONYX’s current portfolio of 24 OZO and Shama properties to 70 properties by 2024. During the initial period, the joint venture will invest in new OZO openings in Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya and the Maldives.

OZO is a select service hotel brand created for travellers who seek a great night’s sleep, a great breakfast, and great connectivity.

There are currently four OZO hotels in operation in Thailand, Hong Kong and Sri Lanka and an additional four hotels under development in Vietnam, Malaysia and China.

Shama is a leading provider of serviced apartments in prime gateway cities in the region. The current Shama portfolio consists of 10 properties in China, Hong Kong and Thailand, with an additional six properties under development in Malaysia and China. of 61.27 billion baht (+22.55 percent).

Another interesting growth is the Americas region with 1.23 million arrivals (+12.31 percent) generating revenue of 77.86 billion baht for the country, an increase of 15.82 percent over 2014.

The Middle East also had double digit growth at 10.07 percent to 658,129 arrivals and generated over 46.31 billion baht, up 17.67 percent in revenue.

The TAT governor said, “Looking at the 2016 prospects such as a severe winter and lower airfares, TAT could encourage more travel from Europe, but our 2016 goals focus on balancing the market share, driving higher spending and extending the length of stay by promoting secondary destinations and high value travel experiences.”

Peter Henley (back row, right), president and CEO, ONYX Hospitality Group, said, “This is a significant development for ONYX which will help us expand our reach in the select service and extended stay segments regionally. OZO and Shama both perform well and continue to exceed consumer expectations whilst attracting strong regional investor interest. This joint venture with Laith Pharaon and Singapore Hospitality Holdings will accelerate the growth and expansion of OZO and Shama and help us reach our strategic goal of becoming the leading midsized hospitality management company in Asia.”

Laith Pharaon (seated, left), owner of Singapore Hospitality Holdings which

is also a shareholder of the brand-new Amari Havodda Maldives, said, “There is strong growth and development potential in the select service and extended stay segments.

OZO and Shama are already achieving good success and expanding in their respective segments. We have enjoyed working with ONYX on the opening of Amari Havodda Maldives and look forward to working with them on multiple projects in the long term. This partnership presents opportunities for the growing OZO and Shama brands to expand even more strategically and benefit from the combined strengths of Singapore Hospitality Holding’s hotel development experience and ONYX’s hospitality management expertise.”

Ravindra Beach Resort & Spa receives Thailand MICE Venue Standard award

Ravindra Beach Resort and Spa has been awarded Thailand MICE Venue Standard on MICE Standard Day 2016 held at Royal Paragon Hall, Siam Paragon. The award was presented

by General Tanasak Patimapragorn, deputy prime minister and minister of Foreign Affairs, to group director of Marketing at Sunshine Hotels and Resorts, Ploywadee Dibbayawan.

The recognition certifies that Ravindra Beach Resort and Spa’s function rooms are above minimum standard from TCEB (Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau).

P7 / 27

Volume 5

Issue 3

16-29 February 2016

Legal & Expat Money

LEGAL ADVICE

by Magna Carta Law Office

Right of Superficies in Thailand

What is a right of superficies?

Superficies (See-Tee-Nua-Tee-Din) is a legal term referring to anything which is placed upon and attached to the ground, and most commonly refers to a building erected on land owned by another. A right of superficies is a real property right for a specified period whereby a landowner grants another person, regardless of nationality, called the superficiary, the use of their land and to own the structures built upon it, without obtaining ownership rights over the land.

The right of superficies is only valid and enforceable after the registration with the land department has been completed. The registration of the superficies shall make the public aware of the recorded burden on the property and is, therefore, enforceable against any third party such as a successor to the property.

For how long can superficies be granted?

A right of superficies may be created for a period of time, or for the life of either the owner of the land or the superficiary.

If it is granted for a period of time, the period may not exceed 30 years; if a longer period is stipulated, it shall be reduced to 30 years. The grant may be renewed for a period not exceeding 30 years from the time of renewal.

If no period of time has been fixed, the right of superficies may be terminated at any time by any partner giving reasonable notice to the other.

Will I lose my right of superficies if the landowner transfers the land ownership to another person?

The right of superficies is neither extinguished by transfer of ownership of the land nor by

the destruction of the buildings, structures or plantations even if the destruction was caused by force majeure.

Can the right of superficies be transferred or inherited?

The superficies can be transferred if you wish to sell the right to another person and can be bequeathed by way of inheritance.

What happens when the right of superficies comes to an end?

When the right of superficies is extinguished, the superficiary may take away his buildings, structures or plantations, provided he restores the land to its former condition.

If instead of permitting the removal of the buildings, structures or plantations, the owner of the land notifies his intention to buy the structure at a market value, the superficiary may not refuse the offer except on reasonable grounds.

What is the difference between usufruct and superficies?

Usufruct is a temporary legal ownership right, accorded to a person or party called the usufructuary, to use, enjoy and manage someone else's immovable property with the advantage of deriving income or benefit from it for a 30-year period or for the lifetime of the usufructuary and as long as the property is not in any way damaged or altered.

Superficies is similar to a usufruct, but unlike usufruct, wherein its rights and benefits expire upon the death of the usufructuary, the right of superficies is transferable and inheritable. A usufructuary cannot sell the property but he can transfer his rights on the property to a third party with up to 30-year lease.

MAGNA CARTA LAW OFFICE 193/126-8 South Pattaya Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi, 20150, Thailand Telephone : 038 373735-6 MOBILE NO. : 082 479 1204 Fax : 038 373672 Email : legal@magnacarta.co.th

www.magnacarta.co.th

Expat Money Corner

by Tim Whiteley

Kids’ education – a major expense for expatriates!

About the most expensive way to pay school and university fees is out of income at the time they’re due; that is for those of us who don’t have them paid by corporate employers.

If there is the chance to plan ahead, there are specially designed savings arrangements that may well fit the bill. Such schemes have a built in ‘drawdown’ facility that allows for fees to be withdrawn at the required times. Even a modest growth rate has the effect of discounting fees and the longer it goes on the bigger the cost savings.

The fact that, as expatriates, we can save offshore in a tax-free environment is a big plus.

Educational fees are climbing at a higher rate than inflation, so it’s prudent to build in an escalating estimate of the amounts likely to be required. As a rule of thumb, the approximate increase in fee costs runs out at around 5 or 6 percent, and, as a further safeguard, savings contributions can also be increased automatically year-onyear by specific amounts, or percentages.

University costs may well also have the additional expense of providing accommodation should the campus be some distance from the family home. The total cost, in this part of the world, to privately educate a child from the age of 5 to age 22, including university is estimated to be approximately 200,000 USD. If you now multiply these figures for two or three children, the need for early planning becomes even more evident.

Another possibility is to take out life insurance for the estimated amount required over the term needed to guarantee the fees are available should the worst happen to the family breadwinner(s); this, of course, gets more expensive as we get older.

The other option is to set aside a lump sum earmarked for the purpose. Funds can be invested and the necessary amounts stripped out as and when required. There are offshore platforms that allow access to all listed stocks and securities available on all major markets, as well as deposit accounts with major banks. This provides for enormous flexibility of investment and the money can be placed in trust to ensure that your wishes are carried out, should the worst happen. Either way, planning as early as possible is the most effective way of making substantial savings on the cost of your children’s education.

A personal illustration of the various schemes should be obtained to reflect your own particular circumstances, including the specific school’s tariff and the selected, potential university’s tuition fees.

Important Note - This article contains general information only and is not intended to be taken as specific financial, investment, or tax advice. A personal analysis should always be obtained.

Tim Whiteley of IFA International has over 25 years as an IFA, advising international investors and expatriates, both onshore UK, and offshore in Asia. With offices in Bangkok, and regular client visits to Pattaya, IFA specialises in wealth protection services, offshore trusts, QROPS UK pension transfers and QNUPS, creating tailor-made investment solutions for individuals around the world.

IFA International does NOT provide discretionary portfolio management, securities advice, forex trading, or local brokerage / insurance products.

The services that IFA International Group provides are for international investors and expatriates only and are not applicable to local nationals.

This is NOT a solicitation to sell or market securities. Questions to the author can be directed to: timwhiteley@ifainternationalgroup.com

P8/28

16-29 February 2016

Business Opportunities

(ptmbo-c0015)Business Partner required.50% share in busy prestigious beachfront bar on Dongtan Beach, Jomtien. 8 bedrooms, bar & restaurant, work permit available, new lease.

Call Colin on 084 350 9304 (ptmbo-sn1115)Resort for Sale. A beautiful resort set in over 2 Rai of land in a tranquil area of Pattaya, but within 20 minutes drive of the town centre. The resort comprises of 9 (nine) chalets, a swimming pool, a large clubhouse/bar/restaurant with full kitchen facilities and seating for over 100 customers + 2 staff rooms.

The land is leasehold with 11 years still remaining. The lease has been registered in a company name at the land office. The land rent is paid annually and is fixed for the full term of the lease at an exceptional rate. There is room for expansion and building permits can be obtained to build a further 9 chalets. This is a rare business opportunity and viewing is highly recommended.

The business comes with a limited company. Sale Price: THB 7.80 million.

Owner Finance Available.

Contact Sven on 087 283 5349, Email: sven.tbac@ gmail.com.

Services Provided

(ptmsp-kp1215)New Storages & Warehouses & Lockers for Rent.Short/ Long Term okay. Located in South Pattaya. Start from 600BHT/Month!

Call 081 107 1717 www.

WonderStorage.com Magna Carta Law Office can assist you in securing loans from 1 million up

Classified

through various financial institutions with no credit checks or black marks and no penalty for a bad credit history. All loans are secured against either land or property and we are able to lend you up to 50% of the appraised valuation of your asset. The funds will be available around 10 days from the start of the application. Loans can be for a period of 6 months to 1 year and can be extended for longer if needed. Call either 038-373735 or 081-9833620 to make an appointment.

N.P. Poolshop. Swimming pool equipment sales and service, maintenance, fitting.

Problem solving and repairs, all that you need for your pool, pumps filters, salt water chlorinators, chemicals etc. call or visit us for your competitive quote. Open mon. – fri 9 am. To 4 pm.

We are easy to find, leaving Pattaya use Sukumvit North, turn right at Road 36 towards Rayong for 1.5 kms. Turn left at 7-11, 100 meters turn left Soi 1, we are 80 meters on the left. Phone English Nittaya 087 065 6929 or 081 004 4971 email: nppools580@gmail.com 35/1 Nongplalai Service for set-up c o m p a n y, a c c o u n t i n g , balance sheet, visa, work permit, application of social security. Contact Korawit Accounting Co., Ltd. 084 754 4214 Nattakit Construction Renovation Company. Need office, home, garden, swimming pool improvements? Very reliable contractor, high quality standard job with reasonable price. Please call 038 373 145 (English), 086 831 8879 or 087 509 0102 (Thai)

PAC Co., Ltd. Can renovate your condo at a very reasonable price with very good standard of work. Ring 087 139 1539 for estimates Eng, 087 150 4845 Thai I f Yo u a re H a v i n g a P r o b l e m w i t h Yo u r Computer either software orhardware,please phone 0868202577 or 0972549072 (Thai &Eng). I will go to service at your place.

WORACHAI AIR Services o ff e r e d : A i r- c o n d i t i o n installation, cleaning, and repair. Refrigerator repair.

Call 089 513 7826 or 087 149 4976 (Khun Pom)

Education & Training

(pta-tk0008)Do you want to Study Thai Language or Thai Culture in Fun & Easy Way? Come to Thankful Knowledge Learning Center. Learn with the native professional teachers. Affordable price & friendly environment call 038 373 175 or 038 416 493.

Houses for Sale

B e a u t i f u l 5 - B e d ro o m villa w/pool in a very popular village in Jomtien 28,500,000 baht. 1,000 sqm land area, house is around 380sqm,with tropical garden, for more inquiries pls. contact Panida (thai) 083 909 7822 or Edward (eng) 081 491 8406, or you can e-mail us at info@4wallsthailand.com Luxurious 4-Bedroom house w/ pool near Mabprachan lake16,500,000 baht.

Includes 2 living rooms and a European-style kitchen, for inquiries please contact Panida(thai) 083 909 7822 or Edward(eng) 081 491 8406, you can also e-mail us at info@4wallsthailand. com House with private pool in Central Park 5 Village Pattaya 6,900,000 Baht, 3 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms, around 200 sqm area, for inquiries, pls. call Panida (thai) 083 909 7822 or Edward (eng) 081 491 8406, or you can e-mail us at info@4wallsthailand.com (ptmhfs-p0000)House for Sale in Siam Country Club. Land size of 56 Talangwa. Located in Soi Pronprapanimitr, 12/1 Central Pattaya Soi Siam Country Club. Price is 2.9 Million Baht. Call 081 487 5627 for more information. (ptmhfs-r0000)Townhouse for SALE 1.75M Soi Siam Country Club House, 2 Beds, 2 Baths, 100 sqm, 2 floors.

Call 082 479 1204 (ptmhfs-ao0000)Beautifully located 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house for sale in Casa Jomtien in the heart of Jomtien, just 100 meters from Jomtien Beach. Land size: 72 w2. Price: 10 Mill.

Baht. Facilities include communal swimming pool

and tennis court. Contact Allan Ottesen on 085 697 8245 Lovely Home and Spacious in Town! Selling Price 6 Million Baht 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms/Full Basement with spacious interior of 400 Sqm interior/129 TLW of Land. Fully Furnished including a fully European Kitchen. This will not be on the market very long before it sells! For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR0855) Great Pattaya Central Home! Selling Price 8.9 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 200 Sqm/71 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6600) Beautiful Home in Jomtien Yacht Club!! Selling Price 25 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/4+1 Bathrooms, 390 Sqm/212 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR5846) Great Phoenix Lakeside Family Home! Selling Price 9.9 Million Baht 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 180 Sqm/200 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR5035) Fabulous 5 Bedrooms Lakeside Home! Selling Price 24.95 Million Baht, 5 Bedrooms/ 6 Bathrooms, 500 Sqm/ 380 TLW, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. At (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR3346) Stunning New 8 Bedroom Beachfront! Selling Price 65 Million Baht, 8 Bedrooms/8 Bathrooms, 650 Sqm/850 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6536)

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 076063

Great Family Home Near Town! Selling Price 20 Million Baht, 5+1 Bedrooms/7 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/660 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR6363) Magnificent House with a Grand Palace Style! Selling Price 75 Million Baht, 5 Bedrooms/ 5 Bathrooms, 620 Sqm/ 320 TLW, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. At (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR6686) Charming Detached House with swimming pool and lovely gardens in Wongamat Location!

Selling Price 21 Million Baht, Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathrooms, 300 TLW/300 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com. (PR6075) Beautiful Private Home Village For Sale! Selling Price 16,000,000 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3+1 Bathrooms, 111 TLW/289 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com. (PR1158)

Great Jomtien Park Villa with Very Nice Modern Furniture! Selling Price 26 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 238 TLW/500 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com. (PR4176) G o r g e o u s L a k e Vi e w Thabali Home! Selling Price 7.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 90 TLW/206 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com.

(PR4465) Great Home in the very popular Siam Royal View!

Selling Price 33 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/360 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com.

(PR4211) A Really Unique Estate on One Rai of Land! Selling Price 27 Million Baht, 6 Bedrooms/7 Bathrooms, 1000 Sqm/440 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR5052)

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 076063

Classified Houses for Sale

Wat Yan & Bangsaray Are Home Villas For Sale!

Selling Price 5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 170 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR1154) Unique and Spacious Beachside Townhomes!

Selling Price 15.9 Million Baht or 28 Million Baht for both side by side Luxury Townhomes with each having 5 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 356 Sqm/89 TLW. Great layouts high standard interior design and just a few steps to the beachfront. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR7006) Fantastic Estate Home For Sale! Selling Price 32 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/6+1 Bathrooms, 600 Sqm/291 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR4516) Magnificent Country Estate Home or Resort for Sale with Great Business Opportunity! Selling Price 43 Million Baht, 7 Bedrooms/8 Bathrooms, 700 Sqm/2 Rai 285 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR6004)

Houses for Rent

Thai Balinese Designed Home! Rental Price 125,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/ 5 Bathrooms, 387 Sqm/ 282 TLW, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. At (038) 231-931

and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR4606) T h e Aw a r d W i n n i n g Development Home! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 200 Sqm/102 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR1090) Luxury & Modern Home Designed! Rental Price 135,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 480 Sqm/256 TLW. This is an absolutely fantastic family close to Bangsaray beach and Cartoon Network Water Park. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR7007) First Class and Exclusive Home! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 380 Sqm./125TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR5614) Lovely Thai Bali Style Homes! Rental Price 95,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 300 Sqm/125 TLW For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6902) Nice Rental Home near Phoenix Golf Course Area! Rental Price 85,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 420 Sqm/200

16-29 February 2016

TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR5086) Spacious 4 bedroom home with large private pool!

Rental Price 100,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/ 4+1 Bathrooms, 500 Sqm/ 1 Rai, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. At (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR1601) Very Impressive Nagawari Home for Rent! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 250 Sqm/98 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR2587) Baan Amphur Beachfront!

Rental Price 50,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 220 Sqm/74 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931

Criminal, Civil, Labor & Family Law Consultancy Bail Bond Company Set-up Visa & Work Permit Notary Service Legal Contracts Representation at Police Station

P9/29

and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6999)

Condos for Sale

Seafront condo with infinity pool, tennis - Banglamung - 153 sqm - 2 Bed, 2 bath see pictures at https://www. facebook.com/thailand. bayview - Sales: 4,000,000 Bht T: 082 122 4335 E-mail: bay.view@live.com 1 bedroom unit in Atlantis resort condo in foreign name 1,790,000. baht. 36.44 sqm, fully furnished, for inquiries, pls. call Panida (thai) 083 909 7822 or Edward (eng) 081 491 8406, or you can e-mail us at info@4wallsthailand. com Incredible Sea Views and Right on the Beachfront!

You will be impressed by this spacious 200 square meter fully furnished 2 bedroom 2 bathroom condo apartment with gorgeous sea views. It is a very good value for someone looking for a great beachfront home or a great rental property.

For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR0359)

Transfer of Property Ownership Real Estate Transactions Prenuptial Agreement Last Will & Testament Accounting Services Property Valuation Loan Assistance

SCAN THE QR CODE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

www.magnacarta.co.th CONTACT US AT

Tel: 038 373735 to 6 or 0824791204

193/126-8 South Pattaya Road Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi Email: info@magnacarta.co.th

P10/30 16-29 February 2016

Condos for Sale

Spectacular Penthouse For Sale! Selling Price 20 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 282 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR6517) Wonderfully Designed Luxury Apartment! Selling Price 9.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 134 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR5559) Charming Condo with Great Sea View! Selling Price 45 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/ 4 Bathrooms, 640 Sqm, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. At (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR1667) Spacious 1 Bedroom Pratamnak Hill Condo!

Selling Price 2.95 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 39 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR3478)

Classified

Great Sea Views and In Town Location! Selling Price 29.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 268 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR5786) Ocean front Super Luxury Condominium! Selling Price 24 Million Baht, 3+1 Bedroom/5 Bathrooms, 217 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6662) High Floor View Talay III Condo Apartment!! Selling Price 14.4 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 198 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR5075) Luxury Wongamat Beach Area! Selling Price 15.750 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 101 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR3104)

House for Sale

Beautifully located 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house for sale in Casa Jomtien in the heart of Jomtien, just 100 meters from Jomtien Beach.

Land size: 72 w2. Price: 10 Mill. Baht.

Facilities include communal swimming pool and tennis court.

Contact Allan Ottesen on 085-697-8245

Great Sea View and Well Located on Pratamnak Hill!

Selling Price 6 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 95 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6369) Wongamat Bay Sea View Apartment....This Month Huge Reduction! Selling Price is 14.375 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 210 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR3990) B e a c h f ro n t L i v i n g i n Dongtan Area Apartment!

Selling Price is 4.95 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 96 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR6646) Stunning and Gorgeous Pratamanak Area Apartment! Selling Price 6.39 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom.

68 Sqm, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR4979)

Condos for Rent

Great Marina Beachfront View! Rental Price is 70,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 157 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR5853) Beachfront Living at its Best for Rent! Rental Price is 42,000-227,500 Baht/ Month, 2-5 Bedrooms/2-5 Bathrooms, 77-450 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PRC084) Spectacular ‘Designer Apartment’! Rental Price is 25,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedrooms/1 Bathrooms, 104 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR3114)

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 076063

LAND FOR SALE Wat Yan Area! Selling Price is 41,250,000 Million 16 Rai 200 Tarang Wah. (PLD0325) Phoenix Golfcouse Area! Selling Price is 12,000,000 Million 2 Rai 1 Tarang Wah. (PLD0711) Huayyai Area! Selling Price is 23 Million 31 Rai 200 Tarang Wah. (PLD0718) Bang Sarey Beach Front Area! Selling Price is 48,000,000 Million 324 Tarang Wah. (PLD0706) Soi Tungklomtanmun Area! Selling Price is 21,000,000 Million 14 Rai. (PLD0964) Sukhumvit-South Pattaya Area! Selling Price is 170,000,000 Million 6 Rai. (PLD0018) Pratamnak Beach Area! Selling Price is 96,000,000 Million 2 Rai (PLD0003) Pratamnak Beach Area! Selling Price is 76 Million 2 Rai (PLD0004) Soi Chaiyapornvithi Area! Selling Price is 40,000,000 Million 7 Rai 200 Tarang Wah. (PLD0002) Pratamnak Hill Area! Selling Price is 34 Million 1 Rai. (PLD0978) Huayyai Area! Selling Price is 1.7 Million 1 Rai. (PLD0927) Na Jomtien Beachfront! Selling Price is 60 Million 1 Rai.PLD0983) Na Jomtien Beach Area! Selling Price is 22.078 Million 122 TLW. (PLD0988)

HOUSES FOR SALE Lovely Home and Spacious in Town! Selling Price 6 Million Baht 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms/Full Basement with spacious interior of 400 Sqm interior/129 TLW of Land. Fully Furnished including a fully European Kitchen. This will not be on the market very long before it sells! (PR0855) Great Pattaya Central Home! Selling Price 8.9 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 200 Sqm/71 TLW. (PR6600) Beautiful Home in Jomtien Yacht Club!! Selling Price 25 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/4+1 Bathrooms, 390 Sqm/212 TLW. (PR5846) Great Phoenix Lakeside Family Home! Selling Price 9.9 Million Baht 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 180 Sqm/200 TLW. (PR5035) Fabulous 5 Bedrooms Lakeside Home! Selling Price 24.95 Million Baht, 5 Bedrooms/ 6 Bathrooms, 500 Sqm/ 380 TLW. (PR3346) Stunning New 8 Bedroom Beachfront! Selling Price 65 Million Baht, 8 Bedrooms/8 Bathrooms, 650 Sqm/850 TLW. (PR6536) Great Family Home Near Town! Selling Price 20 Million Baht, 5+1 Bedrooms/7 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/660 Sqm. (PR6363) Magnificent House with a Grand Palace Style! Selling Price 75 Million Baht, 5 Bedrooms/ 5 Bathrooms, 620 Sqm/ 320 TLW. (PR6686) Charming Detached House with swimming pool and lovely gardens in Wongamat Location! Selling Price 21 Million Baht, Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathrooms, 300 TLW/300 Sqm. (PR6075) Beautiful Private Home Village For Sale! Selling Price 16,000,000 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3+1 Bathrooms, 111 TLW/289 Sqm. (PR1158) Great Jomtien Park Villa with Very Nice Modern Furniture! Selling Price 26 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 238 TLW/500 Sqm. (PR4176) Gorgeous Lake View Thabali Home! Selling Price 7.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 90 TLW/206 Sqm. (PR4465) Great Home in the very popular Siam Royal View! Selling Price 33 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/360 Sqm. (PR4211) A Really Unique Estate on One Rai of Land! Selling Price 27 Million Baht, 6 Bedrooms/7 Bathrooms, 1000 Sqm/440 TLW. (PR5052) Wat Yan & Bangsaray Are Home Villas For Sale! Selling Price 5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 170 Sqm. (PR1154) Unique and Spacious Beachside Townhomes! Selling Price 15.9 Million Baht or 28 Million Baht for both side by side Luxury Townhomes with each having 5 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 356 Sqm/89 TLW. Great layouts high standard interior design and just a few steps to the beachfront. (PR7006) Fantastic Estate Home For Sale! Selling Price 32 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/6+1 Bathrooms, 600 Sqm/291 TLW. (PR4516) Magnificent Country Estate Home or Resort for Sale with Great Business Opportunity! Selling Price 43 Million Baht, 7 Bedrooms/8 Bathrooms, 700 Sqm/2 Rai 285 TLW. (PR6004)

HOUSES FOR RENT

Thai Balinese Designed Home! Rental Price 125,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/ 5 Bathrooms, 387 Sqm/ 282 TLW. (PR4606) The Award Winning Development Home! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 200 Sqm/102 TLW. (PR1090) Luxury & Modern Home Designed! Rental Price 135,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 480 Sqm/256 TLW. This is an absolutely fantastic family close to Bangsaray beach and Cartoon Network Water Park. (PR7007) First Class and Exclusive Home! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 380 Sqm./125TLW. (PR5614) Lovely Thai Bali Style Homes! Rental Price 95,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 300 Sqm/125 TLW. (PR6902) Nice Rental Home near Phoenix Golf Course Area! Rental Price 85,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 420 Sqm/200 TLW. (PR5086) Spacious 4 bedroom home with large private pool! Rental Price 100,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/ 4+1 Bathrooms, 500 Sqm/ 1 Rai. (PR1601) Very Impressive Nagawari Home for Rent! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 250 Sqm/98 TLW. (PR2587) Baan Amphur Beachfront! Rental Price 50,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 220 Sqm/74 TLW. (PR6999)

CONDOS FOR SALE Incredible Sea Views and Right on the Beachfront! You will be impressed by this spacious 200 square meter fully furnished 2 bedroom 2 bathroom condo apartment with gorgeous sea views. It is a very good value for someone looking for a great beachfront home or a great rental property. (PR0359) Spectacular Penthouse For Sale! Selling Price 20 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 282 Sqm. (PR6517) Wonderfully Designed Luxury Apartment! Selling Price 9.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 134 Sqm. (PR5559) Charming Condo with Great Sea View! Selling Price 45 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/ 4 Bathrooms, 640 Sqm. (PR1667) Spacious 1 Bedroom Pratamnak Hill Condo! Selling Price 2.95 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 39 Sqm. (PR3478) Great Sea Views and In Town Location! Selling Price 29.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 268 Sqm. (PR5786) Ocean front Super Luxury Condominium! Selling Price 24 Million Baht, 3+1 Bedroom/5 Bathrooms, 217 Sqm. (PR6662) High Floor View Talay III Condo Apartment!! Selling Price 14.4 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 198 Sqm. (PR5075) Luxury Wongamat Beach Area! Selling Price 15.750 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 101 Sqm. (PR3104) Great Sea View and Well Located on Pratamnak Hill! Selling Price 6 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 95 Sqm. (PR6369) Wongamat Bay Sea View Apartment....This Month Huge Reduction! Selling Price is 14.375 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 210 Sqm. (PR3990) Beachfront Living in Dongtan Area Apartment! Selling Price is 4.95 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 96 Sqm. (PR6646) Stunning and Gorgeous Pratamanak Area Apartment! Selling Price 6.39 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom. 68 Sqm. (PR4979)

CONDOS FOR RENT Great Marina Beachfront View! Rental Price is 70,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 157 Sqm. (PR5853) Beachfront Living at its Best for Rent! Rental Price is 42,000-227,500 Baht/Month, 2-5 Bedrooms/2-5 Bathrooms, 77-450 Sqm. (PRC084) Spectacular ‘DesignerApartment’! Rental Price is 25,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedrooms/1 Bathrooms, 104 Sqm. (PR3114) Absolutely Beachfront Apartment....Definitely a 5 Star Lifestyle! Rental Price is 90,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 350 Sqm. (PR1704) Gorgeous Penthouse Jomtien Beachfront Condominium! Rental Price is 80,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 200 Sqm. (PR0359) Ocean front Super Luxury High Rise Residence on Jomtien Beach! Rental Price 120,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/ 5 Bathrooms, 217 Sqm. (PR6662) Absolutely Finest Designed Condo! Rental Price 90,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 153 Sqm. (PR1866)

Call Premier Homes Co., Ltd. 038-231-931 and 081-634-2915

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 076063

Condos for Rent

Absolutely Beachfront Apartment....Definitely a 5 Star Lifestyle! Rental Price is 90,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 350 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR1704) Gorgeous Penthouse Jomtien Beachfront Condominium! Rental Price is 80,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 200 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR0359) Ocean front Super Luxury High Rise Residence on Jomtien Beach! Rental Price 120,000 Baht/ Month, 4 Bedrooms/ 5 Bathrooms, 217 Sqm, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. At (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6662)

Classified

Absolutely Finest Designed Condo! Rental Price 90,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 153 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR1866)

Land for Sale

Wat Yan Area! Selling Price is 41,250,000 Million 16 Rai 200 Tarang Wah For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0325) Phoenix Golfcouse Area!

Selling Price is 12,000,000 Million 2 Rai 1 Tarang Wah For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0711) Huayyai Area! Selling Price is 23 Million 31 Rai 200 Tarang Wah For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate

RESORT FOR SALE A beautiful resort set in over 2 Rai of land in a tranquil area of Pattaya, but within 20 minutes drive of the town centre.

The resort comprises of 9 (nine) chalets, a swimming pool, a large clubhouse/bar/restaurant with full kitchen facilities and seating for over 100 customers + 2 staff rooms.

The land is leasehold with 11 years still remaining. The lease has been registered in a company name at the land office. The land rent is paid annually and is fixed for the full term of the lease at an exceptional rate.

There is room for expansion and building permits can be obtained to build a further 9 chalets.

This is a rare business opportunity and viewing is highly recommended.

The business comes with a limited company.

SALE PRICE: THB 7.80 million Owner Finance Available Contact Sven on 087 283 5349 Email: sven.tbac@gmail.com

Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0718) Bang Sarey Beach Front Area! Selling Price is 48,000,000 Million 324 Tarang Wah For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0706) S o i Tu n g k l o m t a n m u n Area! Selling Price is 21,000,000 Million 14 Rai For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0964) Sukhumvit-South Pattaya Area! Selling Price is 170,000,000 Million 6 Rai For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0018) Pratamnak Beach Area!

Selling Price is 96,000,000 Million 2 Rai For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email:

16-29 February 2016

premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0003) Pratamnak Beach Area!

Selling Price is 76 Million 2 Rai For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0004) Soi Chaiyapornvithi Area!

Selling Price is 40,000,000 Million 7 Rai 200 Tarang Wah For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0002) Pratamnak Hill Area!

Selling Price is 34 Million 1 Rai For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0978) Huayyai Area! Selling Price is 1.7 Million 1 Rai For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0927)

Solution Sudoku Issue 11 2 9 8 7 6 1 4 3 5

4 7 6 5 2 3 1 9 8

1 3 5 4 9 8 6 7 2

6 2 9 3 8 7 5 1 4

7 4 3 1 5 2 8 6 9

5 8 1 6 4 9 7 2 3

9 6 2 8 7 5 3 4 1

3 5 7 9 1 4 2 8 6

8 1 4 2 3 6 9 5 7

Na Jomtien Beachfront!

Selling Price is 60 Million 1 Rai For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0983) Na Jomtien Beach Area!

Selling Price is 22.078 M i l l i o n 1 2 2 T LW F o r appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0988)

Job Vacancies

Painter to paint our kitchen cupboards and also a carpet fitter to fit a carpet in our bedroom.Tel: 085 084 4270 The Ranch Steak House Requires Manager, Steak Chef, Steak Sous Chef, Pizza Chef, Captain, Bartender, Welcome Staff. Interested

P11 /31

call Mr Danny at 081 949 8702 Experienced Sales Person / Customer Service Wanted.

We are looking for a female who is interested to work in a property industry.

Requirements: Good written and spoken English / Chinese / Russian. Must be customer service-oriented. Must be sales driven, enthusiastic and hardworking. Send CV/Resume to john@ citygardenpattaya.com or call 0903855595.

Vehicles for Sale

(ptmvfs-1115) Ford Everest, very good condition - has been a strong and reliable family car. Well kept. Silver.

190,000km on the clock.

Manual. 2.5l diesel engine.7 seats, all with seat belts - the back 2 seats can be put up for max boot/trunk space. Roof rack. Based in Banchang, please call if you are interested in viewing/ testdrive. Price: 295,000 baht.

Call 090 927 5278.

Deadline

Issue March 1-15 Please forward your classifieds by 5 PM on February 23 E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net

Fax: 038 076 063

or drop off at our office 263/119 Moo 12, Soi Chaiyapruek 2, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150

33

16-29 February 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

Youth Focus

Field trips are great!

by Dan Nicholson

I don’t remember much about my primary school experience. But I do remember our class field trips. Field trips are more than a holiday from school; coupled with meaningful and relevant lesson objectives, a field experience can engage students in learning and leave a lasting imprint.

Sadly, in some countries the field trip seems to be in decline. This is a shame, as the school fieldtrip is a great opportunity to underpin classroom learning with real world experience. It brings together threads of learning from different subjects and firmly establishes crosscurricular links. The field trip also provides an opportunity for young children to safely explore a new learning environment with their school friends and experience learning and socialising in a new and interesting context.

A recent visit to an aquarium was a great opportunity for the children in Year 2 to apply some of the skills they had developed in the classroom, in the wider world. The children’s reading skills were immediately put

to use deciphering signs and identifying animals. However, their main task while at the aquarium was to use their scientific knowledge to classify the animals they saw, as fish or not fish. It sounds simple but this gave rise to some lively

debate over which animal belonged in which group and why. And of course, they had to record their findings.

There were opportunities to touch a shark and feed a sea turtle. Such close interaction with these animals is a truly amazing experience.

When the children returned to the classroom, they looked at their field survey notes to analyse the data; as expected, fish were by

Book Day & Science Day at GIS Books Come to Life Garden International School (GIS) held an actionpacked Book Day complete with dragons, dinosaurs and mystery readers.

Various surprise readers dropped in on Primary classes to read poems and tell stories about dragons and dinosaurs.

Students were also introduced to this year's Book Battle, where students read popular new books and then vote online to decide on the winners.

Year 6 students even put on a performance of some stories that had been specially written by students. These stories are on display in the Primary atrium.

Science Day The scientists of tomorrow revealed their ideas at a Science Fair held at Garden International School (GIS).

GIS students and pupils from its sister school REPS set up displays in the main hall, showing how they had come up with solutions to a range of problems. These included using solar power to cook food and using trainers to generate electricity.

The fair was organised by Sciences’ Prefect Abhigyan and other IB students.

Mark Beales is assistant head of Secondary at Garden International School.

by Mark Beales

far the most numerous. The next task was for the children to use their writing skills to recount the highlights of the day in words and pictures for others to enjoy.

The intention is that days out like this will encourage the children to see the relevance and interconnectedness of everything they learn in school and spur them on to achieve their best across the whole curriculum even in

subjects which are perhaps not their strongest or their favourite. In addition the shared experiences, such as coming face to face with a big cat or feeding a baby goat, can be relived and recounted with friends and will become memories which will live on long after the children have left school.

Dan Nicholson is a Year 2 Class 1 teacher at Mooltripakdee International School.

34

16-29 February 2016

This & That

www.pattayatoday.net

Robin Hood 2010 breaks tradition

Whatever happened to Errol Flynn?

If you count all the action movies (including the silents) as well as the spoofs and the cartoons, there have been over 200 renderings of the character Robin Hood in English over the past century.

But the definitive account was the 1938 movie starring Errol Flynn in perhaps his finest

only to help the poor. His consort Maid Marion has to be beautiful if able and even scheming. The nobles are a bad lot and mostly in league with Prince John whose aim is to prevent his brother Richard from returning home from the crusades or, better still, have him bumped off altogether.

Blood and guts all the way in 2010 swashbuckling role. Incidentally this was the movie that gave cinema audiences their love of action films in Technicolor which promptly became standard.

The 1938 film set the parameters of the legend of Robin Hood. He is a good man, committing crimes such as robbery

These parameters continued, more or less for 70 years in movie making. For example, you can see them in the 1952 film Ivanhoe starring Robert Taylor, although the actual role of Robin Hood (Earl of Loxley) is played there by bit part actor Harold Warrender. He’s not

central to the plot though.

In 1953 there was the first representation of Robin Hood on British TV with the hero played by Patrick Troughton.

But not much changed in the way Hood was depicted. In 1976, Sean Connery and Audrey Hepburn gave us Robin and Marion, a revisionist interpretation of the couple now in their old age. Yet, over the decades, the Nottingham hero retained the same characteristics – principled, devoted to getting a better deal for the peasants and a man of modest means.

Until 2010 that is. Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood is different because it is disconnected from the classic tradition. Played by 45 year old Russell Crowe, the lead character is a bum rather than a bandit and spends most of his time scowling rather than smiling or courting Maid Marion. Mind you, he has reason to look miserable after he gets involved in a bar fight and ends up helplessly in the stocks even as his peers storm the French castle.

The other characters are also different from the movie tradi-

tion. In 2010, Richard the Lionheart is chubby and megalomaniac but he doesn’t last long as he is killed by a chance crossbow bolt fired by a short order cook on the ramparts of a doomed town. Friar Tuck is portrayed as a fat cleric whose hobby is beekeeping and with a sideline in providing medieval mead for the really desperate drunk.

The violence is ever present, but Ridley Scott apparently decided to use short cuts to keep the gore to a minimum. Rather like the shower scene in Psycho, what you think you see is a lot less than what you actually see.

The climax of the movie is a French invasion of England in boats which never saw the light of day until Normandy in 1944.

The cuts mean that whilst the scale of the action is vast, it’s also too fast and scattered.

Marion, played by Cate Blanchett, gives her character strength and grace. A fierce and confident woman, she’s not afraid to threaten any unwelcome advances with castration of the interested suitor. But, in the end, this characterization of

Marion fails. Her actions in the final act of the film are nonsensical and she is wedged into the final battle scene just to show she’s tough. Marion is the glue which holds her village together but her role in the movie is awkward and unconvincing.

It’s pity too about Prince John, played by Oscar Isaac. Although he’s basically a bad egg – promising reforms to the nobles and then reneging – he is portrayed in the movie as continually making a fool of himself.

He apologises to his mother he has an erection in bed and tells Russell Crowe he can’t give him a present as Crowe’s dad hasn’t paid his taxes of late.

Naturally, there are some redeeming elements in the 2010 Robin Hood which is a really a prequel as it deals with Robin Hood before he becomes an outlaw. It’s a beautifully shot film and the scale and pedigree of Crowe and Blanchet appeal to the majority of cinema goers and DVD watchers. Some of the acting is very good, especially the Merry Men and, in particular, Mark Addy as Friar Tuck.

Errol Flynn as the “real” Robin Hood The general impression given in the movie is that the real story begins after the closing credits at the end. In other words, the prequel is in reality a test card for another movie about Robin Hood, this time when he’s in the familiar role as English outlaw in Nottingham forest. Given that Russell Crowe was 45 when he made the movie, the oldest to date, we can safely assume the next actor will remind us more of Errol Flynn in his heyday. With 200 movies already made on this subject, it won’t be easy to be original.

35

16-29 February 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

This & That Top 10 Worst Passwords of 2015

by Morgan Slain, www.teamsid.com

SplashData has announced the 2015 edition of its annual “Worst Passwords List” highlighting the insecure password habits of Internet users. “123456” and “password” once again reign supreme as the most commonly used passwords, as they have since SplashData’s first list in 2011, demonstrating how people’s choices for passwords remain consistently risky.

overtaken it as a popular password. Both appear in the Top 10 of SplashData’s list, with “football” climbing three spots to number seven and “baseball” dropping two spots to number 10.

When it comes to movies and pop culture, The Force may be able to protect the Jedi, but it won’t secure users who choose popular Star Wars terms such as “starwars,” “solo,” and “princess” as their passwords.

All three terms are new entries on this year’s list.

Other passwords appearing on the 2015 list that did not appear on the 2014 list include “welcome”, “login” and “passw0rd.”

SplashData, provider of password management applications including SplashID for consumers and TeamsID for businesses, releases its annual list in an effort to encourage the adoption of stronger passwords to improve Internet security. According to SplashData, the passwords evaluated for the 2015 list were mostly held by users in North America and Western Europe. The “Worst Passwords List” shows that many people continue to put themselves at risk for hacking and identity theft by using weak, easily guessable passwords.

“We have seen an effort by many people to be more secure by adding characters to passwords, but if these longer passwords are based on simple patterns they will put you in just as much risk of having your identity stolen by hackers,” said Morgan Slain, CEO of SplashData. “As we see on the list, using common sports and pop culture terms is also a bad idea. We hope that with more publicity about how risky it is to use weak passwords, more people will take steps to strengthen their passwords and, most importantly, use different passwords for different websites.”

Presenting SplashData’s Top 10 “Worst Passwords of 2015”:

In SplashData’s fifth annual report, compiled from more than 2 million leaked passwords during the year, some new and longer passwords made their debut – perhaps showing an effort by both websites and web users to be more secure. However, the longer passwords are so simple as to make their extra length virtually worthless as a security measure.

For example, “1234567890”, “1qaz2wsx” (first two columns of main keys on a standard keyboard), and “qwertyuiop” (top row of keys on a standard keyboard) all appear in the top 25 list for the first time, but they are each based on simple patterns that would be easily guessable by hackers.

As in past years’ lists, simple numerical passwords remain common, with six of the top 10 passwords on the 2015 list comprised of numbers only.

Sports remain a popular password theme. While baseball may be America’s pastime, “football” has

By Emily Irwin, www.UrbaneWomen.com

Unlock The Keys To A Happy Relationship With Your Partner With These 5 Tips You probably know one or two of those ‘perfect couples,’ the ones you can’t imagine ever breaking up, or even fighting. Whether they’ve been together 40 years, 15 years, or even just a year or two, they’re perfectly content and totally committed to each other.

Ever wondered how they achieved that perfect balance and happiness? All couples are different, of course, but here are five things those couples most likely did, and still do.

1. Accentuate The Positive People in happy, successful relationships understand that criticizing their partner too much does nothing but harm their partner’s self-worth and cause resentment.

If you want to stay happy in your relationship, criticize as little as possible, or even not at all, if you can. Instead, focus on your partner’s positive traits by giving compliments frequently and generously.

2. Strong Communication Leads To Strong Bonds Couples who are in happy relationships keep them happy by keeping the lines of communication open, and talking every day. They not only give each other support and affirmation with their words, but they also communicate their affection through physical touch, and have time in their day set aside for intimacy.

To bond with your partner more closely, share your own feelings, and truly listen to what he’s saying when he shares his own. Don’t forget to steal a kiss every now and then to keep your physical bond as strong as your emotional bond.

3. Your Partner Is a Real, Imperfect Person – Love Him For It! If your understanding of how relationships work and what they should be like comes entirely from the movies, TV, and novels, you need to be prepared for real life to surprise you, disappoint you, and ultimately broaden your perspective.

Difficulties crop up in every relationship. When they do, automatically assuming that you didn’t choose the right person and need to try again is a big mistake. Couples who have found true happiness found it by loving their partner just the way they really are.

SplashData offers three simple tips to help people protect themselves: 1. Use passwords or passphrases of 12 characters or more with mixed types of characters 2. Avoid using the same password over and over again on different websites 3. Use a password manager such as SplashID to organize and protect passwords, generate random passwords, and automatically log into websites For more information on SplashData’s last five years of research into commonly used passwords, visit http:// content.teamsid.com/worst-passwords-ebook.

4. Give Each Other Space To Pursue Individual Interests Couples with happy, healthy relationships have mutual interests, but they have separate interests, too, and they respect each others’ individual interests. They don’t do things together 100 percent of the time just because they think they should.

For example, if the couples’ dance classes you’re trying to take together is causing fights and anxiety every week, go ahead and spend that evening out with your friends, and tell your partner he should do the same.

When you take time to do things separately and give your relationship some space, you’re actually demonstrating a commitment to stay together.

Think about it – if you’re together all the time, you’ll never have an opportunity to look forward to seeing each other!

5. Surprise Your Partner Every So Often Maybe you and your partner have been together so long you can tell each others’ favorite stories from memory, but even then, doing something unexpected for your partner can really strengthen your relationship.

Think about breaking up the monotony of your everyday life in some small way, like catching a movie during the week, or just giving each other your undivided attention for a little while, with no electronic devices to get in the way.

Making the effort to do little things like these can work wonders for your relationship. Have fun making your relationship happier with these tips – you just may be starting on the road to becoming one of those happy couples you admire so much.

For additional information on romance, health, fitness, beauty, skin care, hair care and more, go to www.urbanewomen.com.

36

16-29 February 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

Local Sports Landis, Tom H, and Paul W Hanna sinks the Navy! sail home at Navy

by Derek Brook

Time once again for the Tropical Golfers to try their best at Navy (Plutaluang) golf course. A slightly smaller field of 18 golfers signed up to give it a go. After breakfast, during which there was much joking about fellow golfers who also play bridge, breakfast and beverages were finished, and cars were on their way.

Unlike last month there were plenty of caddies waiting for us. We were assigned the tough but scenic and quite interesting North and West courses. That means “The Lighthouse” was waiting!

The weather was sunny and breezy – breezy enough so that umbrellas had to stay folded most of the time, but overall good golf weather. The North and West courses are difficult and not a single golfer made handicap, but a few came quite close!

Landis Brooks and Tom Herrington after a good round at Navy

Three golfers tied with 35 points, so it went to complicated countback to determine who gets to be called winner. Countback went to Landis Brooks (h'cap 8) who showed his skill maneuvering around the tricky layout, followed by Tom Herrington (14), and big Paul

Weatherly (21). Well played all, at it just goes to show it pays to finish strong. Tom McDowell (20) won the last spot on countback over Don Carmody (25).

Near pins: Landis Brooks, Tom Herrington, Jack Calderini, Paul Weatherly Long putt: Tom Herrington

Buckers … It’s a gimme!

By Dilligaf

Three buses awaited the 29 players eagerly anticipating The Growling Swan’s visit to Mountain Shadow.

On the buses, there was the usual flatulence, but the serious subject of gimme’s arose. Now, we all know lots of ‘golfers’ play gimme’s (not supposed to in Pattaya) but, they are an important part of the game in match play. Most of us are ‘masters of the practice swing and the gimme putt’ and we should also ensure that ‘it is not a gimme if you’re still away’. In perfect conditions, we played off the blue tees and although at 6,200 yards, a little short for some (long for others), the tricky greens sorted out the majority.

Welcome returnee Graham Buckingham has unfortunately been lame of late. We are always aware of the injured golfer and on his return from a long layoff Buckers enjoyed a great day out. The lone soldier to break his handicap, Buckers loves his golf! He finds it much easier to get up at 6 am to get ready for golf than at 10 am to clean the condo.

A participant in the recent World Scrabble Championship in Perth, the eloquent Buckers suggests that every time he makes a birdie, he must subsequently make two triple bogeys to restore the fundamental equilibrium of the universe.

Graham Rice squawked his way to another podium finish and Ebrahim and Alex Field calmly claimed another good score. First gamer Paul Jackson also enjoyed a fun day to return a creditable effort.

Winners: A Grade (0-19) 1st Kevin Waycott (8) 34pts 2nd Ebrahim (17) 33 pts 3rd Alex Field (19) 32 pts 4th Graham Rice (13) 30 pts B Grade (20-36) 1st Graham Buckingham (26) 39 pts 2nd John Anderson (29) 33 pts 3rd Paul Jackson (36) 32 pts 4th Kae Dayton (20) 30 pts Near Pins 5 Kevin Waycott 8 Piere Cere

Green Valley – Stableford – White Tees T-1st – Julian Valvo (2) 37 points T-1st– Kevin Hamilton (16) 37 points T-3rd– Sakai Yasuo (10) 36 points T-3rd – Jeff Acheson (10) 36 points 4th– Paul Walsh (15) 35 points Apologies for the modest reports this week as the Mulberry Ryder Cup consumed much of the time for reporting. Green Valley is keeping in great shape and the numbers were strong for another full sign-up sheet.

The tourists equaled the locals today as we saw Julian and Kevin vie for the tie at 37 points.

We also welcomed back Paul Walsh for another session of Pattaya time and he starts off this trip with a decent 35 on the card to squeak onto the podium.

Mountain Shadow – Stableford – White Tees 1st – Corey Cusatis (23) 39 points 2nd – Peter Thomas (17) 38 points 3rd – Jeff Acheson (10) 35 points T-4th – Blake Hanna (19) 33points T-4th – Julian Valvo (2) 33 points T-4th – Higuchi (18) 33 points Good course, good comp were the reports from the lads returning from today’s adventure.

This was Capt. Phil’s last outing before he heads off down under for a few weeks break. A welldeserved break it will be as the last two months have been chock-a-block on most days and the so-called herding of cats takes its toll. We have not seen Mr. Smedley’s name on the podium for many weeks now so this hiatus should give the old boy time to recuperate and recharge the batteries. Have fun down there, mate!

Lots of the tourists on that leader board up there, and it seems only Peter Thomas and recent inductee Blake Hanna were the performers. Get used to seeing Dave Ferris at the helm, as he will be running the show whilst Phil is on holidays.

Plutaluang Navy– Stableford – White Tees 1st – Blake Hanna (19) 38 points 2nd – Don McMillan (10) 35 points 3rd – Ian Grant (14) 33 points You never really know what to expect when you book out here, but this time it all went swimmingly as no six-ball group of admirals and generals cut in front of us today.

Comments in the van were all positive; it is a lovely track that has maintenance issues so if you can deal with that you will have a nice day of golf here. It is cheap as chips compared to the other courses and hard to beat as a value for money venue.

The design of the course was by a military committee, and on this occasion they did a pretty darn good job of winding the course through the foothills of Rayong to produce a most pleasant layout of four 9-hole tracks. This is the best time of year to play out here, as Navy will never be in better shape.

Blake Hanna certainly seemed to like it here as he topped the field to turn in his best card of the trip so far! Blake will be with us for another couple of months so you had better get used to seeing his name up on the podium as I think there will be more victories to come.

Thanks to all who joined us this week at The Home of Golf in Pattaya, The Golf Club.

The Golf Club is “The Home of Golf in Pattaya” and located on Soi LK Metro. We broadcast all English Premier League, UFC, NFL, MLB and NHL games live.

Our kitchen is open from 7 am to 10:30 pm with our famous Steak Nights on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Just call 085 434 3377 or see our website www.golfclubpattaya. com, and for more information mail us at pattaya4golf@gmail.com and see updates at www.facebook.com/golfclubpattaya. All handicaps welcome!

PSC Tropical Golf from BJ’s From L-R: KevWaycott, Birthday Boy Russell Calcutt, Graham Buckingham with Sarah holding D-For. 15 John Anderson 17 Graham Buckingham Longest One Putt 9 Deefa & 18 Peter Grey Back at The Growling Swan, warm welcomes were extended to Graham Buckingham, Paul Jackson, Michael Beat, Paul Seaford and JC Lhoste.

Birthday boy Russell Calcutt led the return to the ’60s and ’70s (Happy Birthday, Russ!); we all had a great time revisiting our past.

Jock paraded charity dog ‘D-For’ who gleefully received significant donations from the happy clan.

Please keep in mind that all “D-For” donations, this month and next month, are going to the families of the two caddies who were killed leaving the Pattaya CC after work.

For some serious golf with a liberal dose of fun, The Growling Swan welcomes golfers of all persuasions. We generally play on Mondays and Thursdays at any one of the fine courses around Pattaya. Contact Peter Grey for bookings or any information on 0861503086.

Bowls The Growling Swan also caters to the bowls enthusiasts. Bus transport departs The GS on Sundays at 10 am for open grass bowling at The Retreat. Contact Paul Rennison on 084 345 4005 if you wish to partake. The cost including return bus transport, bowling fees and a hot lunch is less than 400 baht, so great value for a day out.

Greenwood (Stableford) Sadly this day turned into a bit of a bore after we went there two weeks ago and had a great day.

Probably because the course offered a great rate and that meant that many players from elsewhere decided to visit the course. They do say that a bad day on the golf course is better than a good day at work, well I have had some great days at work, but that is a story for another day.

Usually when we have odd numbers we tend to go with three-balls and four-balls as we did so on this day. That meant we started with three three-balls and followed up with three four-balls.

The idea is that the three-balls can set the pace and the four-balls try to keep up with them. We expect the three-balls to get around in well under four hours. Usually it works.

Sadly on this day the plan fell down as in front of us was a five-ball who, to give them their due, were constantly held up from in front. That meant that as our first three-ball we were held up for every shot and in fact took slightly over five hours. That really does spoil the round, however in past years this was pretty common, we are spoilt at present. I suppose we can be thankful for small mercies in that this year the slow pace took us by surprise. Mind some of the groups behind, particularly the four-balls, did enjoy the pace and enjoyed their round. It drove me up the wall.

However back to the plot, with the bad roadworks on the 331 we went with the new ‘Dick Route’, as it takes out all the traffic lights and bad roads. It seemed to work and we all got to Greenwood in a good mood and without suffering trying to miss holes in the road. I am told we came back the same way but sadly I was inspecting the inside of my eyelids. Amazing how arriving back in Pattaya tends to always make me come back to life.

The course was not too bad, and we did

by Steve Ellison

by Derek Brook

Flight winners with Dick Warberg have plenty of time to inspect it, just stood there looking around. Tom tells me he spotted one snake but then he had plenty of time to look.

The greens were not bad, in fact good, but the rough was just that, rough. The fairways were not too bad either, just a little sparse. We were all pleased to end what was a long round, although the weather played the game and was very nice.

Quick shower, a bite to eat and back to Pattaya as soon as we could. Mind it was late.

Back at BJ’s it was into the results rather quickly. In the A Flight, 0 to 20, the winner and with a fine round he won quite easily, was John Hackett with 43 points. In second was Tom McDowell with 38 points and in third was Mike O’Brien with 36 points on countback over Dick Warberg.

In the B Flight the scores were not as good.

The winner with 34 points was Dave Cooper ahead of Paul Weatherly in second with 32 points and Tom Cotton in third with 29 points. As they say you only have to get enough points to win.

It may not have been the best day on the golf course but with a good bunch of players and a great venue, the night went well. TTFN. Near pin: Landis Brooks, Doug Maiko, Dave Cooper, Jim Ferris

37

16-29 February 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

Local Sports Phantom Golf Cup No. 8: Jack Grindvold the low gross winner & Patrick Poussier gets an ace! by Peter Blackburn There was another fabulous response for the 8th Phantom Golf Cup as we had 54 players signed up and the weather was looking good so we were looking forward to a great day with once again an earlier than usual first tee time of 9 am. As usual we had a low gross prize up for grabs and there was keen interest again shown by the low handicappers with the first group that got away just a few minutes behind schedule consisting of Jack (3), Bob Watson (3), Gerd (8) and PSC Golf Chairman and President Maurice (11). Group 2 was also reeking of golf ability with Russell (2), Jason (3), Jeff (8) and Bob Edwards (10). The rest of the groups followed and things went extremely smoothly with most showing up on time (not mentioning Dave Edwards and Co. who had to be relegated to last group but at least, along with everyone else, they showed up and got away just about 10 minutes behind schedule which I feel was a very good effort for 14 groups off the one tee).

The weather was perfect and the golf course was in terrific shape with the greens being of a high standard which enabled some fairly

good scores in all flights. The Greenwood staff were very helpful so a big thanks to them and I must say this golf course is about the best value around, especially at this time of year.

In addition to the low gross prize we had three flights with A Flight for handicaps 0 to 12 playing stroke off the white tees, B Flight for golfers with handicaps of 13 to 22 playing stableford off the white tees and C Flight for golfers with handicaps of 23 and upwards playing stableford off the yellow tees and there were four places in each flight.

As usual there were technical prizes for the three flights on all holes – six for A Flight, six for B Flight and six for C Flight.

There was a clear winner in the low gross category with “Jumping” Jack Grindvold’s gross 75 getting the chocolates, and a countback was needed to decide the winner of A Flight with two golfers on net 69. This resulted in Ed Wyckoff getting the win with a net 35 back nine and Jeff Wylie came second with a net 36 back nine. In third place was Bob Edwards with net 73 followed by Landis brooks who finished fourth with a net 74. B Flight was well won by Thomas Nyborg with a fine 42 points and with two players on 39 points the countback resulted in Peter Hynard (21-point back nine) finishing second with Phil Mitchell (18-point back nine) in third spot. Larry Gibb finished in fourth place with 38 points. Glen Williams was the winner of C Flight with 40 points and another countback was required with two golfers on 36 points and that resulted in second place going to Marcus Earp (23-point back nine) with Odd Holm Hansen (16-point back nine) finishing third and Tony Cook was fourth with 35 points.

Special mention to Patrick Poussier who got his and Phantom Golf ’s first hole-

in-one; he celebrated by ringing the bell back at the bar – Well done, Patrick!

Results: Low Gross Winner – Jack Grindvold (3) – 75 gross Hole-in-one– Patrick Poussier on A2 A Flight – 0 to 12 1st – Ed Wyckoff (12) – net 69 2nd – Jeff Wylie (8) – net 69 3rd – Bob Edwards (10) – net 73 4th – Landis Brooks (8) – net 74 B Flight – 13 to 22 1st – Thomas Nyborg (14) – 42 points 2nd – Peter Hynard (15) – 39 points 3rd – Phil Mitchell (20) – 39 points 4th – Larry Gibb (22) – 38 points C Flight – 23 and over 1st – Glen Williams (24) – 40 points 2nd – Marcus Earp (30) – 36 points 3rd – Odd Holm Hansen (24) – 36 points 4th – Tony Cook (31) – 35 points It had been yet another successful monthly tournament with an excellent field and some great golf played on a fine golf course. We had a terrific buffet meal back at the Phantom Bar and thanks to Fleming and Jesper for that and also many thanks to Christian Boysen and Neil Smith of the Phantom Bar for sponsoring the event. We would also wish to thank Alibaba Restaurant, Colin’s Golf Bar and Hotel Dania for helping us with sponsorship.

Next month’s tournament will be held at Royal Lakeside on Wednesday, March 2 and on that day we will also be celebrating the birthday (wants me to keep the number quiet) of Phil Davies and Phil will be a massive sponsor on that day so put that in your diary.

Khan and Martin show the way Twenty-six punters gathered on Soi Chaiyapoon eager to take advantage of the 1,650 baht green fee, caddy and cart deal on offer.

Welcomes were handed out to Per Salberg, Bill Steinmann, Russell Goldsworthy and Geri Crilly. Pat Kavanagh and JJ Harney were farewelled, the last gent attaining the status of grandfather.

Congrats, mate, does that mean Silver Tees next? We do wish your daughter, sonin-law and the newest arrival (yet to be named) all the very best!

Climatically it was warm, the course in good condition and with the usual velodrome type greens being quite slow, it assisted in contributing to good scores.

Prior to hit-off Peter Grey said he had as much chance of winning as Brendan Fevola being appointed to the board of The Geelong Girls Grammar Finishing School for Charm.

He was correct.

Two grades today, with scratch to 17 being the senior one and 18 plus, the junior.

In the A grade Martin Toddhanded in 37 points and despite Mark Stapleton’s game sparkling like the duco on a new Ferrari, he was rolled on a countback. Third spot went to JJ Harney also on countback from Stu Rifkin both players finishing with 36 points.

B grade saw Khan Speechley score 36 points, Jim Carlson 35, Alex Field 34 and Pat Kavanagh propped it up with 32.

In a display of ineptness not seen since gallstones and coals of fire wreaked havoc on Sodom and Gomorrah, Mike Gosden

scored a miserable 25 points indicating retirement may be imminent.

Results for Pattavia: A Grade 0-17 1st Martin Todd (10) 37 points 2nd Mark Stapleton (16) 37 points 3rd JJ Harney (13) 36 points 4th Stu Rifkin (16) 36 points B Grade 18+ 1st Khan Speechley (19) 36 points 2nd Jim Carlson (20) 35 points 3rd Alex Field (19) 34 points 4th Pat Kavanagh (28) 32 points

by The Drut

persuaded to part with a few readies after a liberal dose of unguents to the wallet. Also to be known granddad deposited 2,000 baht after hearing what we have introduced with D-For. Golf The GS is a friendly golf outlet and caters for and encourages all golfers, male and female, to have a hit at any of our weekly outings. We generally play Mondays and Thursdays at one of the many fine golf courses in and around Pattaya. Contact Peter Grey if you are interested on 086 150 3086.

Near the Pins Denis Steele on 4th Bill Steinmann 7th Don Richardson 13th JJ Harney 17th Long First Putt Martin Todd 9th Don Richardson 18th A special note regarding D-For The Growling Swan had received a phone call thru the week. From L-R: Martin Todd, JJ Harney with a photo of his There is a tournament to take place on new grandson and Khan Speechley March 17 at Pattaya CC. All monies raised from this will go to the families of Bowls The Growling Swan also caters to the the two caddies that were tragically killed (hit by a truck) leaving the golf course after bowls enthusiasts. Bus transport departs work. We, as a group, have decided that “all The GS on Sundays at 10 am to play at The D-For monies”, from now till March will Retreat. Contact Paul Rennison on 084 345 4005 if you wish to partake. The cost go to the families of the two girls!

D-For was again in full flight, however, including return bus transport, bowling one unnamed player with a penchant fees and a hot lunch is less than 400 baht, for retaining his hard-earned was only so great value for a day out.

38

16-29 February 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

You & Your Pets Small talk

When tongues aren’t wagging but tails are Do you talk to your pets?

Come on, you can admit it. Most of us do. It may amount simply to uttering dolce fa niente (sweet nothings) during quiet moments, or it might rise to the level of angry complaints that we’re unwilling to reveal to less-furry friends. Not that there’s anything wrong with talking to your cat or dog—unless your four-footed friend is talking back to you. In that case, you might have a problem.

For the rest of us, pets are often an excellent audience. They usually are attentive. They don’t argue with us. They seem to know when to be still and listen, even compassionately at times. They are grateful for the attention. They can be trusted not to reveal our secrets. They are non-judgmental. And they let you talk about yourself constantly without requiring that you then must listen to their problems in return. Kinda like a cuddly therapist who doesn’t give you advice but doesn’t charge either.

On the other paw, fair is fair. So while you may chew off Fido’s ear day after day, or your soliloquies bore Felix to yawns, do your little friend a good turn: listen to what he or she has to say to you—silently or otherwise. Yes, they do talk.

Cat Eyes Pay attention to Ms Kitty’s eyes; they can be reflective of her mood. If her eyes are wide open and she is looking at you, she is listening to what you are saying. But only if she occasionally blinks.

If she is giving you a hard stare—eyes wide and no blinking—she doesn’t want to be bothered. In fact, she is telling you to stay away. Blinking is common for many cats; slow blinking in particular is a sign of happiness. When she is not blinking and her pupils become dilated, back away. She is probably feeling provoked.

A dog's eyes are equally expressive of his emotions. If he is stressed or frightened, his eyes are not as wide open and they appear smaller. If he feels really threatened, however, his eyes will widen.

The direction of your dog’s gaze also may indicate his mood. If he stares at you squarely in the eyes or—conversely— avoids looking at you in a way that lets

the whites of his eyes show, he's feeling defensive. Stay away.

Be aware, too, that oftentimes if a dog squints, it could mean that he is in pain.

Tall Tails When a cat holds her tail high, it can signal that she is friendly and relaxed. The higher the cat’s tail, the more confident she may be. However, if her tail is raised high with the fur erect and puffed out, it usually indicates alarm or potential aggression. As she becomes more unsure or fearful, her tail is more likely to slink lower.

When a dog holds his tail high, on the other hand, it often signals high arousal and the possibility of aggressive behavior. A dog that is agitated and about to attack may also flick his tail back and forth vigorously. When a dog is relaxed, he is more likely to carry his tail in a neutral position, extended out behind him.

Friendly dogs generally wag their tails loosely back and forth at medium height. When a cat’s tail begins to wag back and forth, an unfrienºdly encounter or predatory attack is likely.

Speak, Fido. Speak All interpretations of our pets’ body language must be considered in context; don’t rely on just one sign; check out other aspects of the animal’s posture and behavior. That applies as well to sounds such as barking and meowing.

Barking related to play generally is accompanied by a relaxed body and wagging tail; short barks or insistent yips might be telling you to stop whatever you are doing to him. If his body is stiff and he is growling, it may be a warning sign.

Sometimes dogs bark simply to get your attention.

Cats, on the other hand, are quite vocal—from purring to meowing. Cats meow only to humans, usually when they want something; it’s up to you to figure out what they want. And as you no doubt know, cats also growl, wail and sometimes chatter.

Now Ear This Cats that are confident in greeting people normally hold their ears forward and alert. But if your kitty’s ears move backward or twitch, she may be feeling insecure that the encounter is not going well. If her tail also is twitching, she is probably feeling agitated.

Like dogs, cats’ ears usually point forward when the pet is relaxed. Both

Cats for You in Pattaya

species are likely to move their ears up and all the way forward when they are excited or interested in something.

However, when the ears move backward and are flattened against the head, there’s often underlying fear or submission.

One sign of a friendly dog is that his ears move back just slightly. Dogs with erectly pricked ears and tail may be ready to stand their ground against another animal if necessary.

In general, relaxed cats have closed mouths; relaxed dogs may have a closed or partially open mouth. The more tense a dog is, the more tightly closed his mouth becomes. When a dog “grins,” it usually is a sign of submission. But beware: bared teeth can sometimes be a sign of aggression. Check out the rest of the animal’s body language; if his posture is relaxed and not stiff, he’s probably feeling passive.

Another sign of submission is when a dog lies on his back, though this may just as well be an invitation for you to rub his belly. Not so with cats. Very few cats actually enjoy having their belly rubbed and may respond aggressively. If a cat lies on her back, it probably is in self-defense; this position allows her to have all four paws, with claws drawn, ready to react to a threat.

Cats In Knead If you have a really happy cat, she will knead you with her front paws, gently and often, as if she were making dough. That's the cat’s meow for cat lovers. Equally rewarding is when she flutters her eyelids at you: she is showing that she trusts you.

Note, however, if Ms Kitty lets her tail droop, or if she otherwise is exhibiting a drastic change in other behaviors, it often means something is wrong—she may be sick or unhappy. Consider what the causes might be. The same is true when a dog’s behavior changes—if he becomes destructive, hides, or sleeps more. If you can’t work it out, visit your vet…or talk it over with your best furry friend.

You’re probably aware of family health measures, but do you know what issues are important to provide for your pet’s well-being?

This Pattaya Today feature may help answer some common questions.

Beware Chocolate, Coffee, Caffeine Keep the three C’s totally out of the reach of all pets. Chocolate, coffee and caffeine all contain substances called methylxanthines, which are found in cacao seeds, the fruit of the plant used to make coffee. It also is found in the nuts of an extract used in some carbonated beverages.

When ingested by pets, methylxanthines can cause vomiting

and diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death. It ain’t pretty.

Note that darker chocolate (which has health benefits for humans) is dangerous for pets, even more so than milk chocolate. White chocolate has the lowest level of methylxanthines, while baking chocolate contains the

highest. Better to keep all chocolate away from all pets.

Going to the Dogs...

The one absolute, unselfish friend that a man can have in this selfish world—the one that never deserts him, the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous—is his dog.

~ George Graham Vest

Cats for You is a great and much needed service in our area, but Paul and Sandra point out that adopting a cat or kitten is a longterm commitment with costs such as feeding and veterinary fees.

Many adopters find it’s a good idea to adopt two animals so that they can enjoy each others’ company as well as yours. Contact Paul and Sandra on 0852875004 or look at their useful website http://cats4youinpattaya.webs.com/

Dum & Dummer

These two tiny tots were found in a bin bag dumped at the side of the road. Luckily, although traumatised and very hungry, they are making a good recovery and should be ready to go to a new home by the time you read this article.

Felix

This handsome fellow is living in a cage at our local vets.

Sadly he has tested positive for the Felv which means that he must be an indoor cat so that he cannot transfer his disease to any other feline.

However he is not sick and is expected to live a long and normal life.

Jamie & Pan

This lovely brother and sister combination would love to go to a home together if at all possible. They are both very loving and playful and although can be a little shy with strangers at first, once they get to know you they are fine.

Bella

This lovely girl has been with us for quite a few years now.

She is very friendly and just loves to be made a fuss of. She generally keeps herself out of the way of the other cats here and enjoys lazing about the place as if she was the Queen of Sheba.

Cat Corner Tip Is your cat demonstrating obsessive or compulsive behavior?

Sometimes your cat just can't stop herself from doing something over and over again. It could be totally normal. In some cases, though, it can be a sign of a problem. Even obsessive grooming may be indicative cause for worry.

Yes, cats groom to look good and to calm themselves. But if they overdo it, it can hurt their skin. Have

your vet check for skin problems first. If your cat is grooming too much because of stress, such as a change in routine or a new pet in the house, reassure her by playing with her and helping her feel relaxed.

If you are concerned about any repetitive behavior, talk to your vet.

Also, give your cat fun, relaxing diversions, like structures to climb on or a fish tank to watch.

39

16-29 February 2016

www.pattayatoday.net

Games

CROSSWORD Across 1. Vinyl records (abbr.)

4. Darkroom item (abbr.)

7. Shaving mishap 10. Ump’s call 11. Sailor’s yes 12. Timber tree 13. Singer Rosemary 15. Regret greatly 16. Animal rights gp.

17. Blot 19. In case 20. Scarab 21. Critic Roger 23. Become less harsh 26. Actor Cronyn 30. Printer’s machine 31. Drop by unexpectedly (2 words) 32. Pub order 33. Gum brand 35. Atlantic fish 36. Long period 37. Also not 38. Pulver’s rank (abbr.)

39. Coloring agent 40. Towel off

1

2

3

4

10

Down

6

8

9

28

29

12

14

15

16

17

19

18

20

21

23

7

11

13

1. Union branch 2. Life sign 3. Brings to an end 4. Grandma 5. Needle’s opening 6. Old Faithful, e.g.

7. Insertion mark 8. Normal 9. Present 14. Groups of eight 18. Procedure 20. Affleck of “Daredevil” 22. Outstripped 23. Room to breathe 24. Synthetic fabric 25. Provides food 27. Tip a barrel 28. Unimportant 29. Way in 31. Long (for) 34. Cowboy Rogers

5

24

22

25

26

30

27

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38

39

40

Solution Issue 10

This week’s subject is Films of the 1990s 1. Which medieval hero was Prince of Thieves in 1991?

2. In which film did Mel Gibson play a Scots hero?

3. Which 1993 Spielberg film was shot largely in black and white?

4. Who played James Bond in GoldenEye? 5. Which US president did Anthony Hopkins play in 1995?

year back

first

give

after

time day

work

up think

way

know

well

want

make

good

come

people

look

WHAT’s the WORD? new

over

take

out

say

Answers: 1. Robin Hood; 2. Braveheart; 3. Schindler’s List; 4. Pierce Brosnan; 5. Nixon. other

get

Identify which word is being defined.

1. Definition: A collection of data: part numbers, product codes, customer information, etc. It usually refers to data organized and stored on a computer that can be searched and retrieved by a computer program.

First letter: D Answer: __________ 2. Definition: The center of a tropical storm or hurricane, characterized by a roughly circular area of light winds and rain-free skies. An _____ will usually develop when the maximum sustained wind speeds exceed 78 mph. It can range in size from as small as 5 miles up to 60 miles, but the average size is 20 miles. In general, when the _____ begins to shrink in size, the storm is intensifying.

First letter: E Answer: __________ 3. Definition: Something that is due to happen soon.

First letter: U Answer: __________ 4. Definition: The amount of money charged for a product or service, or the sum of the values that consumers exchange for the benefits of having or using the product or service.

First letter: P Answer: __________ 5. Definition: The printed document issued to the policyholder by the life insurance company which states the terms of the life insurance contract between them.

First letter: P Answer: __________

SUDOKU 1

2

8

4

9

3

6

7

5

Solution on Page 31

7 3 4 6 5 9 6 7 1 4 8 1 2 5 8 7 2 5 1 6 9 7 4 8

Answers: 1. Database; 2. Eye; 3. Upcoming; 4. Price; 5. Policy.

Pattaya Today is published & edited by Chanpen Prasinchai for Siamese Vision Media Co., Ltd. ISSN: 2351-0471 Publication License Number 5/04/2557 Office: 263/119 Moo 12, Soi Chaiyapruek 2, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel: 038 076 062 Fax: 038 076 063 E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net Printed at Print 87 Co., Ltd. Naklua, Pattaya City 20150