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PATTAYA TRADER
Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
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CONTENTS COVER STORY 1 Kiss FM FEATURES 4 Chinese New Year 7 Coming to the Big Screen 8 Forthcoming Events 60 Pattaya Personalitites TRAVEL &ATTRACTIONS 24 Pattaya Attractions 26 The Call of the Wild and Mild SCHOOLS & EDUCATION 32 Book Review 33 St Andrews EXPAT LIVING 30 Bargain Hunter 31 Pattaya International Ladies Club 40 Dining in Detail 62 Do you sometimes feel your brain is drowning in information ? 75 Winner of Expat Writing Competition 76 Fool in Paradise SPORT & LEISURE 44 Pattaya Bike Week 46 Superbowl 48 Fishing 49 Golf MOTOR & MARIEN TRADER 54 Talking Wheels 55 Disabled Sailing Association CLASSIFIEDS 64 Classifieds
Dear Readers I hope you all enjoyed your New Year Celebrations and made plenty of resolutions . Were they the same as the previous year’s ? Lose weight, Get fit, Detox ? Or are you now thinking that a few new, extra improvements might be needed in your quest for a New You for 2016 ? If so and you think that you might just need a little professional help, then a visit to Dr Li may be in order - check out the article about The Pratumnak Medical Center on page 34. For many of us however, the New Year celebrations are not yet over as the Chinese New Year enters into The Year of the Monkey on the 8th of February. Read all about it on page 4 whilst on page 7 we have a new feature for you with the new film releases coming to a big screen near you. Hope you enjoy it as we're coming up to the Oscars when there are so many great new films to see There are also plenty of sporting events to look forward to both near: with the forthcoming Pattaya Bike Week and far; with the Spectacle that is the American Superbowl an early morning treat for those of us viewing in Thailand. There’s another new feature on page 60 “Pattaya Personalities” when each issue we shall be interviewing a colourful character around town. If you know of someone worthy of a mention - write and let us know…..and…... Best of all The Pattaya Trader has now moved into our new offices in Soi 1 Chaiyapruek, Jomtien and I personally am loving the escape from the Sukhumvit ! Editor Pattaya Trader is published by Chang Siam Publishing Co. Ltd. (part of Voova Group). The name Pattaya Trader is a trademark.
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Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
By Belinda Wilson
CHINESE NEW YEAR FEBRUARY 8TH 2016
C
hinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival would be a signal to farmers in China to begin their preparations for the sowing of their fields. There are many legends about this Spring Festival. In folk culture, it was also known as “guonian” (meaning “passing a year”). Legend has it that the “nian” (year) was a strong monster which was fierce and cruel and ate one kind of animal (including human beings) per day. The people were scared of it and had to hide on the evening when the “nian” came out. However they discovered that the “nian” was scared of fireworks and the colour red and so began the tradition of using the colour red and loud fireworks to drive the ‘‘nian” away. .
In China red has become the colour of fortune, wealth and prosperity and is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Therefore on New Year's Day, everyone will dress in new clothes to welcome a brand-new age in terms of all aspects and red underwear is also a must ! The wearing of it is believed to bring good luck, wealth and longevity. Kids are given red envelopes as gifts. Stuffed with cash the are the most popular gifts from grandparents, uncles, aunts and other elders As being one of the traditional Chinese festivals, it is the grandest and most important festival for the Chinese people.A time for the whole family to get together, rather like Christmas Day to westerners. Originating during the Shang Dynasty (about 17th - 11th century BC), it celebrates family reunion and hopes for the advent of spring and blossoming of flowers. Most employees have 7-12 days off work, and students are given a one month vacation. - So expect to see more Chinese visitors in Pattaya around this time Chinese New Year is represented by 1 of the 12 creatures of the Chinese Zodiac – 2016 is the year of the Monkey. People born within this year are believed to be witty, clever and intelligent, especially in their careers and with regards to wealth. They are lively, flexible, quick-witted and versatile. In addition it is said that their gentleness and honesty will bring them an everlasting love life. However their shortcomings are said to be an impetuous temper and tendency to look down upon others.
Celebrities born in the year of the monkey include
Tom Hanks
Daniel Craig
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Will Smith
Mick Jagger
Christina Aguilera
Daniel Craig
Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
A “Monkey Year” is forecast as being a lively, optimistic and progressive year where finances, politics, and real estate should see an upturn (fingers crossed ) although there may be an undercurrent of insecurity. Everyone wants to work the shrewdest angle, get the best deal, and win big. However, business decisions made this year should be based on fact, not emotion. Problems and chicanery abound, so nothing this year should be taken for granted, whether politically, financially, professionally, domestically or emotionally.
and can’t handle the stress will come unglued.
A particularly auspicious time for new inventions, the Year of the Monkey is for taking risks and being rebellious, a year when agile, inventive minds, sheer guts and bravado will win out. A time for courage, action, and devotion to even the wildest of schemes and a time to start new endeavors. But a word to the wise: those those who are dull or slow witted,
So the Chinese horoscope recommends that in the year of the Monkey we move forward, make strides, and stretch out for what may lay ahead. The Year Of The Monkey 2016 is a time for business usually considered risky, and where you should run with ideas, embrace the inventive, and don’t look back.
What Chinese Zodiac sign were you born under ?
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EVERY MONDAY FOOD AND DRINK
International Variety Breakfast Where: Cucumber Pub & Restaurant International Variety Breakfast including coffee or tea start from 150 THB to 230 THB Time: from 10am
SPORTS AND LEISURE
Cheese burger Monday Where: Dicey Reilly's Cheese burger with a pint of Chang for 199THB Time: from 10am
Game Night Where: Aqua Bar, Mercure Hotel Darts, table football and pool. Buy one beer, get one free. Time: from 5pm
Draft Beer Promotion Where: Witherspoons Pub Daily Pint Promotion 12-8 pm Heineken, Tiger, Chang 100 baht a pint Guiness 150 baht a pint Happy Mondays Where: News Steak & Grill Buy one meal from the regular menu, get another of equal or lesser value free of charge Time: from 6pm Happy Go Lucky Where: Latitude Lounge and Infiniti forensics, Sheraton Pattaya Resort Buy 1 Free 1 (choice of drinks in the list). Time: from 5pm Robins Nest Chicken Breast Chasseur with saute potatoes 189 baht Pizza & Pasta Buffet Where: Thai Garden Resort Poolside Great buffet for 399THB omly Time: from 6pm to 9pm Themed Buffet Where: Tavern By The Sea Different theme every night Time: from 6.30pm
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Bira Bike Day Where: Bira Circuit Motorbike practice. Time: from noon
Pattaya Bridge Club Where: Altos Restaurant Time: from 1pm
Six-a-Side Football Where: Planet Football, Soi Siam Country Club Time: from 6.30pm Zumba, Jazz, Hip Hop Classes Where: Tony's Fitness Center (3rd Road) Time: from 7.30pm to 8.30pm Pub Quiz Where: Shenanigan's Time: from 8pm
EVERY TUESDAY FOOD AND DRINK International Variety Breakfast Where: Cucumber Pub & Restaurant International Variety Breakfast including coffee or tea start from 150 THB to 230 THB Time: from 10am Pizza Tuesday Where: Havana Bar, Holiday Inn Hotel 279THB for signature pizza Time: from noon Draft Beer Promotion Where: Witherspoons Pub Daily Pint Promotion 12-8 pm Heineken, Tiger, Chang 100 baht a pint Guiness 150 baht a pint Happy Go Lucky Where: Latitude Lounge and Infiniti forensics, Sheraton Pattaya Resort Buy 1 Free 1 (choice of drinks in the list). Time: from 5pm
Monday Quiz League Fixtures list available by email: pattayaquizleague@ hotmail.com Time: from 8.30pm
Wine & Tapas Evening Where: Witch's Oyster Bar & Restaurant Gorgeous variety of great wine and tapas. Time: from 6pm
8-ball Pool League 12 Pattaya bars playing on a home/away basis. www. pattaya-funtown.com/ pattaya_pool_league Time: from 8.30pm
BBQ Buffet Where: Thai Garden Resort Poolside Great buffet for 399THB only Time: from 6pm to 9pm
MUSIC AND SHOWS
iBar Hip Hop Party Club Insomnia (in the middle of Walking street) 7pm Monday Night Party Where: Mixx Discotheque (Bali Hai Pier) Time: from 8pm
cheese or French Fries for free! Time: from 8pm Robins Nest Chicken Breast Chasseur with saute potatoes 189 baht
SPORTS AND LEISURE Bira Car & Truck Day wher: Bira Circuit Car and truck practice. Time: from noon Pattaya Darts Double-In League Visit: www.pattayadarts.com Time: from noon Yoga Class Where: Tony's Fitness Center (3rd Road) Time: from 6pm to 7pm Expats 6-A-Side Football: Where: Planet Football, Soi Siam Country Club Time: from 6.30pm. Pattaya Chess Club Where: Brau Haus Everybody welcome. Lessons available. Boards and clocks provided. Time: from 6.30pm Ladies 9-ball handicap Where: Megabreak Pool Low entry fees and great prizes. Time: from 8.30pm
Buy 2 get 1 free on Cocktails Where: News Steak & Grill Special Cocktails Time: from 9pm Wine Night Promotion Where: Access Inn All bottles 999THB, all glasses 99THB. Buy one bottle and gent terrine, Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
EVERY WEDNESDAY FOOD AND DRINK
International Variety Breakfast Where: Cucumber Pub & Restaurant International Variety Breakfast including coffee or tea start from 150 THB to 230 THB Time: from 10am Pizza Wednesday Where: Dicey Reilly's Pizza Margarita with a glass of wine 299THB Time: from 10am Wednesday Special Where: Robin’s Nest Beef & Tomato Lasagne with garlic bread & side salad 189 baht Time: from noon Draft Beer Promotion Where: Witherspoons Pub Daily Pint Promotion 12-8 pm Heineken, Tiger, Chang 100 baht a pint Guiness 150 baht a pint Happy Go Lucky Where: Latitude Lounge and Infiniti forensics Sheraton Pattaya Resort Buy 1 Free 1 (choice of drinks in the list). Time: from 5pm Thai Contemporary Night Where: Oceana Restaurant, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Enjoy a selection of traditional Thai dishes such as som tum, tom yum goong, choo chee curry, pad Thai and the Essan grilled specialties and Thai contemporary dance. 800THB per person. Beverages not included. Time: from 6pm Multi-Cuisine Buffet Where: Thai Garden Resort Poolside Enjoy live music and www.pattayatrader.com
delicious cuisine for 399THB only. Time: from 6pm - 9pm
SPORTS AND LEISURE Pattaya Bridge Club Where: Altos Restaurant Time: from 1pm
10-ball handicap Where: Megabreak Pool Low entry fees and great prizes. Time: from 4pm Six-a-Side Football Where: Planet Football, Soi Siam Country Club New players and spectators are welcome! Time: from 5pm Spinning Class Where: Tony's Fitness Center (3rd Road) Time: from 6pm to 7pm Polyglot Club Where: Anchor Coworking Space, Chaiyapruek Rd. Language exchange club. Free and open to all. Time: from 7pm Bingo Night Where: The Bondi Jomtien Beach Three games of one line, then two lines, then Full House! First two games in English and Thai but last game in Thai only, so bring along your Thai friends or choose your favourite waiter to help! Nine prizes of vouchers for the Bondi or local venues, bottles of alcohol and the chance to win the rollover Jackpot! When you pay the bill, you also have a chance to win the money in "Crack the Safe" game. Time: from 9pm
MUSIC AND SHOWS
Bodega Fever Where: Pullman Pattaya Hotel G Featuring Lorenzo Santos. Enjoy live music and Tapas and free flow wine or draught beer for 899THB Time: from 7pm to 10pm Charity Concert for Banglamung Elderly Home Where: Da Claudio Restuarant, Jomtien Plaza Featuring Dutch Baritone Ronald Willemsen. Time: from 8pm Don't stop the party! Where: Mixx Discotheque DON'T STOP THE PARTY WITH DJ ANDY P , DJ V , DJ CHAMPION , DJ JIMMY Time: from 10pm
SOCIAL EVENTS
Motor auction Where: Collingbourne Auctioneers Motorbikes and cars! Don't miss the best deal! Time: from 4pm to 6pm Rotary Club of JomtienPattaya meeting Where: Royal Cliff Beach Resort Time: from 6.30pm
PATTAYA IMPROV GROUP Weekly Improv Nights You are more creative and funnier than you think you are. Prove it to yourself at one of Pattaya Players' FREE comedy improv workshops! These will be held every Wednesday. Create original theatre comedy instantly, on the spot, under the direction of Sheldon Penner, Dramalog Award-winning playwright and director, and a former member of the Groundlings Sunday Show and the Thieves Theatre. We will play theatre games and perform for one another in a friendly, no-pressure, supportive environment. Everybody is welcome, from age 12 and over. No experience necessary - just the desire to play, laugh and have fun. Please come to take part or simply support the participants as a cheering observer! For more information and to reserve a place on the session, please contact Sheldon at sheldon@sheldonpenner. com. Location: White Horse Pub, Eastern Grand Palace Hotel, Soi Kho Talo, Pattaya Feel free to join us for dinner and/or drinks beforehand starting at 6 PM at the the White Horse bar, with the workshops starting at 7 PM. Click Like for the Pattaya Improv Group!
PLEASE NOTE: All dates, times and details were correct at the time of publication. Pattaya Trader is not responsible for the postponement, cancellation or relocation of events.
FB page: h t t p s : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / Pa t t a y a - I m p r o vGroup-595839277228367/
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EVERY THURSDAY FOOD AND DRINK International Variety Breakfast Where: Cucumber Pub & Restaurant International Variety Breakfast including coffee or tea start from 150 THB to 230 THB Time: from 10am Thursday Special Beef & Tomato Lasagne with garlic bread & side salad 189 baht Draft Beer Promotion Where: Witherspoons Pub Daily Pint Promotion 12-8 pm Heineken, Tiger, Chang 100 baht a pint Guiness 150 baht a pint Happy Go Lucky Where: Latitude Lounge and Infiniti forensics, Sheraton Pattaya Resort Buy 1 Free 1 (choice of drinks in the list). Time: from 5pm Sangria Night Where: Aqua Bar, Mercure Hotel Sangria only 150THB per glass. Buy one, get one free. Time: from 5pm Ladies Cocktail Night Where: Breeze Beach club, Centara Grand Pratumnak
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Only 250 Baht for Free flow cocktails. Hang out by the beach with your girlfriends and enjoy the "breeze". And for the gentlemen all local beers only 100 Baht Time: from 5pm to 10pm Pasta evening Where: Havana Bar, Holiday Inn Hotel Live music. Pasta and glass of wine for 450THB. Time: from 5pm German Buffet with Roasted Pig Where: Thai Garden Resort Poolside Enjoy live music and delicious cuisine for 399THB only. Different theme every night. Time: from 6pm to 9pm Buy 2 get 1 free Where: News Steak & Grill Special cocktails Time: from 9pm
SPORTS AND LEISURE
Pattaya Archery Club Where: Pattaya Shooting Park, Huay Yai All welcome; equipment and coaching provided. For more information visit the website: www.pattayaarcheryclub. com Time: from 10am to noon Pole Dancing Class Where: Tony's Fitness Center (3rd Road)
Free for members. 99 THB per class for non-members. Time: from 5pm to 6pm Pattaya Panthers Rugby Club Where : Horse Shoe Point, Soi Siam Country Club New players always welcome. For more information contact Damian McCoy 086 111 2816 or Adrien Simon 095 705 0822 email info@pattayapanthers.com. Time from 7:00 pm
MUSIC AND SHOWS
Latino Thursday Where: Sunset Lounge Bar, Baraquda D2 Hotel Featuring Lorenzo Santos Time: from 5pm Thursday Night Where: Mixx Discotheque DJ DOMINATION (WINNER BEST DJ IN ASIA, WINNER BEST VIDEO DJ IN THE WORLD!) DJ EDDIE PAY (FROM PAY & WHITE ,OFFICIAL FASHIONTV DJ DUO) + MIXX DJs TEAM Time: Happy Hours from 10pm to 12 am - buy 1 get 1 free
SOCIAL EVENTS
Rotary Club Eastern Seaboard meeting Where: Siam Bayshore Pattaya Hotel http://www.rotary-es.org/ rotary-new/index.html Time: from 6pm
PLEASE NOTE: All dates, times and details were correct at the time of publication. Pattaya Trader is not responsible for the postponement, cancellation or relocation of events.
Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
EVERY FRIDAY FOOD AND DRINK
Mojito Night Where: Aqua Bar, Mercure Hotel Mojitos only 150THB, buy one get one free. Time: from 5pm Thai Buffet Where: Thai Garden Resort Poolside Enjoy live music and delicious cuisine for 399THB only. Different theme every night. Time: from 6pm to 9pm
International Variety Breakfast Where: Cucumber Pub & Restaurant International Variety Breakfast including coffee or tea start from 150 THB to 230 THB Time: from 10am Irish Party Where: Murphy's Law Free food and shooters. Pattaya United Football supporters meet. Every Friday Time: from noon Robins Nest Fish & Chips 189 Draft Beer Promotion Where: Witherspoons Pub Daily Pint Promotion 12-8 pm Heineken, Tiger, Chang 100 baht a pint Guiness 150 baht a pint Happy Go Lucky Where: Latitude Lounge and Infiniti forensics, Sheraton Pattaya Resort Buy 1 Free 1 (choice of drinks in the list). Time: from 5pm
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Seafood Evening Where: Havana Bar, Holiday Inn Enjoy live music and Seafood platter for 1200THB. Time: from 5pm
MUSIC AND SHOWS
Latino evening Where: Siam@Siam Hotel Featuring Lorenzo Santos Seafood buffet and free flow wine or draught beer for 799THB Time: from 6pm to 10pm
Mix Tape Where: Hard Rock Cafe A roster of four guest DJs play soulful funk Deck y sounds, deep house, tech and all manners of groovy tunes laced with rock & roll. Time: from 9pm
William Strattan Touricks plays 60s/70s music Where: Shenanigans Time: from 7pm Funky Soul with John and Michael Where: Sunset Lounge, Dusit D2 Baraquda Enjoy these amazing performancers! Also Rooftop tapas & dinner served every night Time: from 5pm
Ladies Night Where: Access Inn Come with your friend and BUY 1 BOTTLE AND YOU GET 1 FREE! Time: from 8pm
SPORTS AND LEISURE Pattaya Bridge Club Where: Altos Restaurant Time: from 1pm
Six-a-Side Football Where: Planet Football, Soi Siam Country Club Time: from 6.30 pm Yoga Class Where: Tony's Fitness Wongamat Time: from 7pm to 8pm Fight Night Where: Pattaya Boxing World Real fights. No show! Tickets at door
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EVERY SATURDAY FOOD AND DRINK Robins Nest Fish & Chips 189 Super Saturday Specials Heineken Pint 89 baht Guinness Pint 160 baht Tiger Light Bottle 59 baht International Variety Breakfast Where: Cucumber Pub & Restaurant International Variety Breakfast including coffee or tea start from 150 THB to 230 THB Time: from 10am Steak and Wine Where: Dicey Reilly's Get a free glass of wine or beer with a rib-eye or t-bone steak. Time: from 10am Super Saturday Specials Where: Robin’s Nest Heineken Pine 89 Baht Guinness Pine 160 Baht Tiger Light 59 Baht Time: from noon Draft Beer Promotion Where: Witherspoons Pub Daily Pint Promotion 12-8 pm Heineken, Tiger, Chang 100 baht a pint Guiness 150 baht a pint Happy Go Lucky Where: Latitude Lounge and Infiniti forensics, Sheraton Pattaya Resort Buy 1 Free 1 (choice of drinks in the list). Time: from 5pm International Buffet Where: Thai Garden Resort Poolside Enjoy live music and delicious cuisine for 399THB only. Time: from 6pm to 9pm Delicious Seafood Market
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Buffet Where: Elements Restaurant, Sheraton Pattaya Resort Best dinner for those who enjoy seafood. Price per person in 1299THB Time: from 6.30pm to 10pm
SPORTS AND LEISURE International Tennis Players Academy Where: Ambassador City Tennis Courts For children and teenagers aged from 10-16 of intermediate level skill. Time: from 8.30am
Kiddy Kickers & Soccer School: Where: Planet Football, Soi Siam Country Club Time: from 9.00am. Pattaya Archery Club Where: Pattaya Shooting Park, Huay Yai All welcome; equipment and coaching provided. For more information visit the website: www.pattayaarcheryclub. com Time: from 10am Pattaya Cricket Club Practice Where: Horseshoe Point All welcome. For more information visit the website: www.pattayacricketclub. com Time: from 3pm
Where: Pullman Pattaya Hotel G Featuring Lorenzo Santos. Tapas and free flow wine or draught beer for 899THB. Time: from 7pm Latin Night Where: Havana Bar, Holiday Inn Hotel Special Mojito cocktail for 159THB. Time: from 8pm Sax on the roof Where: Sunset Lounge, Dusit D2 Baraquda Featuring Aht Gunlayanukupt, Thai Kenny G. Rooftop tapas & dinner served every night. Time: from 5pm
SOCIAL EVENTS Auctions at Collingbourne Auction Where: Collingbourne Auctioneers, Soi Chaiyapruek General Sale auctions are held every Saturday at 11.30am at the auction rooms in Pattaya. Prior to the General Auction we have the Motor Auction at 11am; selling cars, bikes, boats, jetskiis, pick-up, trucks etc. On Wednesdays we sometimes have clearance and no reserve sales, where you can grab a bargain. Time: from 11.30am
MUSIC AND SHOWS Balearica Where: Momento Beach Club The best house music around in the coolest spot in Pattaya. With Marco VDB, Large DJ and Rich Mander on duty. Free entrance. Time: from 2pm Bodega Fever
PLEASE NOTE: All dates, times and details were correct at the time of publication. Pattaya Trader is not responsible for the postponement, cancellation or relocation of events.
Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
EVERY SUNDAY FOOD AND DRINK International Variety Breakfast Where: Cucumber Pub & Restaurant International Variety Breakfast including coffee or tea start from 150 THB to 230 THB Time: from 10am Carvery Buffet Where: Dicey Reilly's Special carvery buffet for 399THB. Time: from 10am Sunday Calling Where: Momento Beach Club Djs and Barbecue at the swimming pool. 290THB for all you can eat. Time: from 2pm Draft Beer Promotion Where: Witherspoons Pub Daily Pint Promotion 12-8 pm Heineken, Tiger, Chang 100 baht a pint Guiness 150 baht a pint Happy Go Lucky @ Where: Latitude Lounge and Infiniti forensics, Sheraton Pattaya Resort Buy 1 Free 1 (choice of drinks in the list).
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Time: from 5pm Steaks and Skewers Buffet Where: Thai Garden Resort Poolside Enjoy live music and delicious cuisine for 399THB only. Different theme every night. Time: from 6pm to 9pm
SPORTS AND LEISURE Pattaya Archery Club Where: Pattaya Shooting Park, Huay Yai All welcome; equipment and coaching provided. For more information visit the website: www.pattayaarcheryclub. com Time: from 10am to noon Pattaya Sports Club Softball Recreational pickup games Where: Thai Polo Club New players welcome. For more information, contact John: scrabbleking@yahoo. com Time: from noon Pattaya Cricket Club Practice Where: Horseshoe Point All welcome. For more information visit the website: www.pattayacricketclub.
com Time: from 3pm 9-ball handicap Where: Megabreak Pool Low entry fees and great prizes. Time: from 6pm
designed for 10-15 players, last approximately 30 minutes and will be run in English. Time: from 7pm
MUSIC AND SHOW Acoustic by Yves Baron Where: Oceana Restaurant & Hotel Atrium Centara Pratamnak Time: from 6.30pm William Strattan Touricks plays 60s/70s music Where: Shenanigans Time: from 7pm
SOCIAL EVENTS Pattaya City Expats Club Where: Tavern By The Sea Time: from 10.30am Pattaya Expats Club Where: Mercure Hotel Time: from 11.30am Werewolves Game Where: Anchor Coworking Space Rules will be explained by game master Kaizoku in just five minutes. Games
PLEASE NOTE: All dates, times and details were correct at the time of publication. Pattaya Trader is not responsible for the postponement, cancellation or relocation of events.
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| WHAT'S HAPPENING ?
WHERE TO FIND! LIVE MUSIC AND SHOWS
Alangkarn Theatre (variety show), Sukhumvit Road (at 155km marker), Na Jomtien. Open 6pm onwards Thursday-Tuesday. Tel: 038 256 000 or 038 825 6007, www.alangkarnthailand.com Alcazar Show (cabaret), Second Road, North Pattaya. Open 6pm onwards. Tel: 038 410 2247 Ankor Night Club & Lounge (nightclub), Walking Street Soi 16 Aqua Bar (nightclub), Mercure Hotel, Soi 16, behind The Avenue, South Pattaya Bamboo Bar (live band), South Pattaya Road (20m to the left of Walking Street sign) Blues Factory (live blues band), Soi Lucky Star, off Walking Street. Open 8.30pm. www.thebluesfactorypattaya.com Colosseum Show Pattaya (cabaret), Thepprasit Road. Open 6pm. Tel: 038 906 530, email: rsvn@ColosseumShowPattaya.com, www.ColosseumShowPattaya.com Differ Pub (nightclub), North Pattaya. www.differ-pub.com Dusit D2 Baraquda Pattaya (live band), Second Road, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 769 999, email: d2pa@dusit.com FLB (live band), Walking Street Flexx Club (nightclub), behind McDonald’s, southern end of Walking Street Hopf House (house band & Italian tenor), Beach Road (cnr Soi 13/1) Insomnia (nightclub), Walking Street. www.clubinsomniapattaya.com Jazz Pit (jazz music), Soi 5, off Second Road, North Pattaya. www.pic-kitchen.com Lima Lima (nightclub), Bali-Hai Pier end of Walking Street. Tel: 089 990 2447 Lucifer’s Disko (live band), Walking Street Malibu (cabaret), Second Road, cnr Soi 13/2 (Soi Post Office) Mixx Discotheque (nightclub), Bali-Hai Pier end of Walking Street. www.mixx-discotheque.com Garden Resort). Cross Colours Band starts 9pm. Tel: 038 370 616, email: reservation@thaigarden.com Play Club (nightclub), Soi Lucky Star, Walking Street. Open 10pm-6am every day Roija Gentleman’s Club (live music, soul), Thepprasit Soi 7, South Pattaya Rolling Stone 2 Bar (live rock n roll band), Walking Street, cnr Soi 16 The Pier (nightclub), Walking Street. Tel: 080 480 6661. Open
7:30pm to late The Rendezvous Resort, Lake Mabprachan Tiffany’s Show (cabaret), Second Road, North Pattaya. Open 6pm onwards. Tel: 038 421 700, www.tiffany-show.co.th Tony’s Entertainment Complex (live band), Walking Street. Tel: 038 425 795, www.tonydisco.com Utopia (live band), Soho Square, Walking Street
THE BIG GAME I-Rovers, Soi LK Metro, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 489 494, www.i-rovers.com. Jameson’s Irish Pub, Soi AR (Soi Sukrudee), Central Pattaya. Tel: 038 361 873, email: info@jamesons-pattaya.com, www.jamesons-pattaya.com Kilkenny Bar, Soi LK Metro, South Pattaya. Email: info@ kilkennypattaya.com, www.kilkennypataya.com Legends Pool & Sports Bar, Pattaya Klang (nr Third Road). www.legendspoolpattaya.com The Players Lounge, East Pattaya. www.theplayerslounge.asia Witherspoons, Soi Buakhow (nr Soi Lengkee), South Pattaya. Tel: 038 721 121, www.witherspoonspattaya.com
FOOD & DRINK Access Inn, Third Road, nr Soi Lengkee, www.accessinnpattaya.com Akvavit Grill & Bar, Jomtien Beach Road. Open 9:30pm to midnight. Tel: 038 233 672, www.akvavitjomtien.com Bruno’s Restaurant & Lounge Bar, Thappraya Road, Pattaya. Tel: 038 364 600, www.brunos-pattaya.com Dicey Reilly’s, Second Road, next to Royal Garden Plaza News Steaks & Grill, Thappraya Road, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 267 174, www.newssteaks.com Robin’s Nest Restaurant & Guesthouse, Soi Diana Inn. Tel: 038 720 194, www.robinsnestpattaya.com Tavern by the Sea, Beach Rd, North Pattaya Tel: 038 418 418 Wine Cellar, Naklua Soi 12, North Pattaya Tel: 038 226 054 or 080 204 5551
PLEASE NOTE: All dates, times and details were correct (to the best of our knowledge) at the time of publication. Pattaya Trader is not responsible for the postponement, cancellation or relocation of events.
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Big C Cinema, Big C Shopping Mall, Second Road, North Pattaya Major Cineplex, The Avenue Mall, Second Road, South Pattaya. www.majorcineplex.com SF Cinema (6th Floor CentralFestival Shopping Mall), Central Pattaya. www.sfcinemacity.com
SOCIAL SCENE Anchor Coworking Space, Chaiyapruek Road. Tel: 038 231 540, www.anchorcoworking.com CouchSurfing, Triangle Bar, Soi Chaiyapoon, South Pattaya. www.couchsurfing.org Havana Bar, Hilton Hotel, Beach Road, South Pattaya Lions Club, Jomtien Branch, www.jomtienlions.org, email: jomtienlions@hotmail.com Momento Beach Club, Theprasit Soi 8, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 422 114, www.momentobeach.com Pattaya Expats Club, www.pattayaexpatsclub.info Pattaya City Expats Club, www.pcecclub.org Rotary Club Eastern Seaboard, Siam Bayshore Hotel, South Pattaya. www.rotary-es.org Rotary Club, Jomtien-Pattaya, Royal Cliff Beach Resort, Pratamnak Road. www.rotaryjomtienpattaya.org Royal British Legion, Tropicalbar Thailand 39/132-133 Moo 10, Boonsumpan, Pattaya 20150 . Meeting every Last Saturday of the month. Tel 089 807 2335 or 038 361 887 Veterans of Foreign Wars, Soi Diana Inn, South Pattaya. www.vfwpost9876.com
SPORTS & LEISURE Archery Club, Pattaya Shooting Park, Huay Yai. www.pattayaarcheryclub.com Backgammon, B.G. House & Restaurant, Thepprasit Road, South Pattaya. Tel: 081 664 9085, www.blot.asia Bira Circuit, www.bira.co.th Bridge Club, Altos Restaurant, Thappraya Road (nr overpass) Cheers Bar, Pattayaland Soi 2 (Soi 13/4), South Pattaya. Monday Quiz League and Wednesday League, pattayaquizleague@hotmail.com Chess Club, Brauhaus Restaurant, Second Road between Soi 7 & 8 Cricket Club, Horseshoe Point. Email: pattayacricketclub@gmail.com Darts, www.pattayadarts.com Hash House Harriers, PH3 www.pattayah3.com
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AT THE MOVIES
Hash House Harriers, PBH3 Bush Hash House Harriers www.pattayahash.com/pattayabush.html Hash House Harriers, PJMH3 Jungle Monkey Hash House Harriers www.pattayahash.com/monkey.html Hash House Harriers, PJH3 www.pattayajungle.com Lawn Bowls (indoor; for school-age and college children), Coco Club, behind Phoenix Golf, Baan Amphur. Sue: 087 1358357 Megabreak Pool, Soi Diana Inn, South Pattaya. Tel: 086 033 6617 Muay Thai, Pattaya Boxing World, Sukhumvit Road, North Pattaya. Tel: 038 726 203, www.pattayaboxingworld.com Nervous Wreck Bar, Soi Yamato (Soi 13/1), South Pattaya. Monday Quiz League and Wednesday League, pattayaquizleague@ hotmail.com Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Sukhumvit Hwy (km 157), Jomtien. Tel: 038 237 310, www.oceanmarinayachtclub.com Palmers Bar, Pattayaland Soi 2 (Soi 13/4), South Pattaya. Monday Quiz League, pattayaquizleague@hotmail.com Petanque, email: petanque.Th@gmail.com Planet Football, Soi Siam Country Club, Eastern Pattaya Tel: 038 248 212, www.pattayafootball.com Pole Dancing Classes, Tony’s Fitness Wong Amat Gym, Naklua Soi 16 Polo, Horsehoe Point, end of Soi Siam Country Club, East Pattaya. Tel: 081 835 2419, email: santithaipoloclub@yahoo.com Polo, Huay Yai. Tel: 02 663 045; 02 258 0194. www.poloescape.com Pool www.pattaya-funtown.com/pattaya_pool_league QueenVictoriaInn,Soi6,CentralPattaya.www.queenvicpattaya.com. Wednesday League, pattayaquizleague@hotmail.com Rest Stop, Soi Chaiyapoon, South Pattaya. Monday Quiz League and Wednesday League, pattayaquizleague@hotmail.com Royal Varuna Yacht Club, Pratamnak Rd, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 250 116, www.varuna.org Rugby (Touch), Horseshoe Point, next to Siam Country Club. Email: pjcrouch@hotmail.com Seafari Dive Center, Soi 12, South Pattaya. www.seafari.co.th Shenanigans, Jomtien Complex, Thappraya Road, Jomtien. Open 11:00am until late every day. Tel: 038 303 490, www.shenanigansthailand.com Softball, pickup games at Thai Polo Club. Email: scrabbleking@ yahoo.com Tennis, (for children and teenagers 10-16 only) Ambassador City Tennis Courts, Jomtien The Londoner, Soi Post Office (soi 13/2), South Pattaya. Monday Quiz League and Wednesday League, pattayaquizleague@ hotmail.com The Ranch, Third Road (opp. The Village), South Pattaya. Monday Quiz League, pattayaquizleague@hotmail.com The Sportsman Pub, Beach Road Soi 13, South Pattaya. www.sportsmanpub.com, Tel: 038 710 609 Yoga, Balaji Studio, Soi South Pattaya 24. Tel: 089 748 6204, www.balajiyoga.com
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TRAVEL & ATTRACTIONS
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| TRAVEL & ATTRACTIONS
H
ave you ever dreamed of become a pirate? Have you ever wanted to conquer the sea, take over enemies ships, get a talking parrot drink rum in the tavern, count the gold from the treasure chest?
It seems that life of freebooter is full of freedom, romance and exciting adventures. We can make your dream come true! Introducing Admirallica, this grand pirate ship is now available in Pattaya for day trip excursions and private charters. The mighty galleon offers a truly unique experience and is totally family friendly, with on board entertainers performing pirate shows and catering to all guests, whatever your needs may be. Admirallica guarantees maximum comfort for up to 150 people, with easy access to six bathrooms equipped with showers, a large dining area with ample seating to sit down and enjoy the delicious meals prepared by our chef. The upstairs lounge area is the perfect place on the boat to sit and enjoy drinks from the bar, with draft beer available as well as spirits. The bar is covered and shaded providing a relaxing area to enjoy the breeze. The second deck is also occupied by the DJ booth and dance floor, while the upper decks are perfect for relaxing and catching some sun on the lounge beds.
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The whole ship offers fantastic view points and ideal photo opportunities, with our on board photographer you can capture every moment! The islands around Pattaya offer gorgeous clear waters to swim, and all guests can enjoy the water from the swimming platform at the rear of the ship. Should any guests wish to venture to the beach, our tender Admirallica 2, will deliver you safely to the shore. Admirallica is the finest touristing vessel in Pattaya, safety and customer satisfaction are top priority and our staff are on hand to ensure you take full advantage of what the ship has to offer. Hope to see you aboard soon! The First and only Real Pirate ship in Thailand pattayapirate@gmail.com or +66899-321-045/+6691-590-8221 (Thai) www.admirallica.com
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| TRAVEL & ATTRACTIONS
By John Borthwick
THE CALL OF THE WILD AND MILD — THAILAND ANIMAL ACTS
T
hailand’s urban jungles are full of curious creatures, but the outdoors have even better ones (usually with four legs), not to mention close encounters of the elephant kind.
Elephant Elegance. "These elephants are regarded as Thai government employees," says Englishman John Roberts, head elephant honcho at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp Resort near Chiang Rai where the chang are on loan from the National Elephant Institute at Lampang. John and a team of Thai mahouts teach guests the basics of riding an elephant bareback, solo. I sample their Mahout Experience course, first learning to gently dig my heel in behind the elephant's ear, meaning, "go left," and so on. Other prompts are verbal, such as "bai" (forward) and "sok" (back). With one word in her delicate ear, my elephant, Lawan rolls elegantly forward like a stately ship of the jungle. I slip her in reverse with a confident "sok", and then back again into forward. Sok and roll! www.goldentriangle.anantara.com/elephantcamp.aspx Elephant Ethics. Scores of tourism operators across the country offer elephant rides, usually a rocking, reeling, rolling ride aboard a wooden howdah seat; however, these are now seen as eventually damaging to the elephant’s spine and progressive resorts have eliminated rides. At Elephant Hills tented camp near Khao Sok National Park the highlights are about getting closeup and almost personal with your elephant, by chopping food and hand-feeding it, and then by hosing and scrubbing Jumbo down. They’ll woof as many pineapples and bananas as you pass to their eager, dexterous trunks. Meanwhile, hosing down an elephant — it’s like a pachyderm car wash — is unexpected fun for both parties. Elephant Hills Luxury Tented Camp pride themselves on being: the most responsible and sustainable Soft-Adventure Tour Operator in Southern Thailand. We do not only respect and value our elephants (hence there is no elephant riding at Elephant Hills!), but we also take excellent care of the environment www.elephant-hills.com Buffalo Boys of Chonburi. The humble buffalo is the star of Chonburi’s unique, annual Buffalo Racing Festival. Just getting four kwai to point in the same direction at the start of each race is an event in itself. Then they’re off! Clouds of dust rise as they stampede down the 150-metre course with spindly jockeys hanging onto the haunches of their thundering mounts. The crowd goes crazy. The winning buff gets a bucket of water. So do the losers. The festival is authentically Thai rather than tailored to tourism, with plenty of local music, dancing and food. Beauty contests, of course, for both buffaloes and girls. www. event-carnival.com/thailand/chonburi-buffalo-racing Tiger, Tiger, Snoozing Light. The Forest Monastery, aka “Tiger Temple”, in Kanchanaburi Province is the only Buddhist temple in the world where you sign a danger waiver before entering. Here you may pat very large and tranquil (if not tranquillised) tigers that are tended only by skinny Thai teens and perhaps a monk. "Compassion nurtures the world," is one of the precepts here, and compassion — or it chemical cousin — has the giant moggies in a state of Zonker-like relaxation. I am led over to pat several big cats that hardly acknowledge the attention — for which I’m grateful, because the handler dude seems expert mostly in operating all models of digital cameras. Trophy photo done, I’m outta there.
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TRAVEL & ATTRACTIONS Pukka Chukkas. "Does the elephant hold the mallet in its trunk?" asked a friend before I departed for Thailand’s annual elephant polo tournament — a perfectly good, dumb farang question. In fact, two people ride the elephant — a Thai mahout and behind him a polo player wielding a two-metre mallet and calling instructions. The Kings Cup Elephant Polo Tournament is a four-day pukka sahib extravaganza, featuring Thais, Brits, Nepalis, Pakistanis, Argentineans and more. The Australians, for instance, distinctly lacking elephants at home, have been known to practice perched on hay bales in the back of utes; the Germans have done likewise, but much more seriously (of course) on Hummvees. Competition between the teams is fierce as the elephants thunder towards the goalmouth — but still the question arises: are the mahouts in cahoots? Too much monkey business. Never get between a mob of macaques and a free feed. The Lopburi Monkey Festival is strictly for watching, not participating. Each November at an ancient Khmer temple in Lopburi, monks lay out huge feasts of fruit and vegetables. Some 600 macaques from the surrounding forests swarm in like barflies to birthday party. Initially the gluttonous simians are held at bay by stick-wielding monks but once they’re allowed in, they ransack the piles of food, forgetting entirely their hard-learned table etiquette. Meanwhile, if you’re at Prachuap Khiri Khan on the Gulf coast, skip the kleptomaniac macaques that mug tourists on Thammikaram Worawihan temple hill. Keep going south of town to the Thai Air Force base where the Einstein-faced langurs are lovely and perfectly unlarcenous representatives of our forebears. www.thaifestivalblogs.com/lopburi-monkey-party
Elephant Authentics. Thailand’s most authentic chang event is the annual Elephant Roundup in Surin. Here I meet four elderly mahouts, known as kwan chang, quiet, dignified men who are the last tamers of wild elephants. In their youth — several are now octogenarians — they would enter into the jungle “armed” only with magic amulets and tattoos to capture elephants for logging work. Many of their companions did not return from the hazardous quests. With elephant logging phased out some two decades ago, the jumbos are brought together here in Surin each November for a grand and colourful festival. www.event-carnival.com/thailand/surins-elephant-roundup Jumbo Footnote: You’ll still see young elephants paraded through the tourist zones of Bangkok and elsewhere. The mahout sells over-priced bananas to well-wishers, who feed the animal and then grab a photo opp. The elephant in fact is often an orphan and is further traumatised by the traffic and crowds. Thai animal welfare agencies ask visitors to boycott entirely this form of exploitation.
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| LOCATION SPOTLIGHT
By Kevin Cain
Accolades and Acknowledgements for Pattaya-Based Developer, Heights Holdings It is that time of the year that everybody considers New Year resolutions and particularly their health and fitness concerns. Many people take up memberships of gyms, sports clubs and activity centers in January but fail to keep up the initial drive just a few weeks later. Pattaya is stacked full of air conditioned gymnasiums dotted all over the city and the choice is extensive, many are open 24hrs a day so really there is no excuse to exercise and keep fit. But if you explore Pattaya and delve into the dark underbelly of where the locals work out you will notice that there are actually many free places to keep fit and keep healthy.
PRATUMNAK HILL A very popular place for Joggers, Pratumnak Hill also has an area dedicated to fitness located at the Big Budha junction. The local motor bike taxi men have put together an eclectic open air gym together with some home made equipment.Often referred to as “Ghetto Gyms� these rustic but effective spaces have weights and other assorted paraphernalia that constitute quite a useful little gym. Anybody can use the facility and it is free to those who do not mind exercising in public.
AEROBICS ON DONGTAN BEACH After a hard day's sunbathing and a taxing day in a deck chair, Dongtan beach is the perfect way to loosen those cramped muscles. Around 5pm most days just next to the car park for Dongtan Beach is a free Aerobics class. It attracts locals and beach lovers alike and takes place under the tree canopy for much needed shade, although by that time of the day the sun is ready for bed anyway. There is even an adequate sound system and you can boogie away those extra Christmas pounds in your bikini or trunks depending on your flavour.
JOMTIEN BEACH About half way down Jomtien Beach close to the five-a-side pitch is a free outdoor gym area. Complete with working apparatus it is a great place to work on those Quad's and Ab's. It really does get quite hot down there especially during the day, and night time exercising is really recommended. But if you are one for oiling up your body and showing off your muscles Venice Beach style then this is the perfect place to do it.
THE DARKSIDE There are two free open air Aerobics classes in East Pattaya both starting around 6pm nightly. The first is on Soi Nernplubwan at the end of the Chinese cemetery. Everyday classes start around sunset and continue on into the early evening. The workout is totally free and an enthusiastic crowd gather to pump up the adrenaline and take some much needed exercise. The second venue is opposite the Uh Bor Tor office and again is totally free. There is a lively instructor who will lead you in a series of regimented exercise routines that will guarantee to shed those extra pounds.
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LOCATION SPOTLIGHT
TESCO LOTUS PATTAYA NORTH Why not combine your weekly shopping together with a good workout. Send the other half to do the donkey work and you can take time out improving your fitness. Located at Tesco Lotus is a free Aerobics class that takes place nightly at 6pm. You may have to dodge a few shopping trolleys during your routine and face the wrath of one or two irate shoppers but it will be well worth it. Perhaps a leotard is not quite the right attire for this location, but don some shorts and a T-shirt and get into the groove for some serious exercise. Infact since 2006 there has even been an annual competition as Tesco Lotus provides a wide space in front of its stores where sports enthusiasts can do aerobics in the evening free of charge. The group say it is part of their commitment to encourage people to maintain healthy lifestyles.Today, Tesco Lotus claims more than 8,000 participants around the country are engaged in aerobics at more than 80 stores nationwide each day.
THIRD ROAD UNDERPATH
Not exactly sure of dates and times but there are regular Aerobics classes at the junction of Thappraya Road and Third Road central Pattaya. It does not seem the most healthy of places to exercise as the traffic is pretty horrendous at times and the overhead road seems to concentrate the fumes. However, that is not a good enough excuse to pass up a free exercise class. There are many participants enjoying the benefits of a healthy workout, but perhaps a face mask would be advisable.
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a y a t t a P JAN/FEB 2016 BARGAIN HUNTER ARTICLE Welcome to the new mid month Bargain Hunter and the first Pattaya Bargain Hunter of 2016. My name is Belinda and before living in Pattaya I was a buyer in London’s West End. An important part of my job was to look out for items of quality, value and with that certain special something. Now I look out for bargains in and around Pattaya to share with you.
Grab Taxi phone App I hope you all had a great Christmas and New Year and if there is one thing that celebrating over the festive period has taught me. it is to leave the car at home. To be frank it’s getting harder and harder to justify having a car at all in Pattaya what with the road works on the Sukhumvit, coaches clogging up the main thoroughfares and day and night police check points slowing down the traffic flow. In the evenings I have often found myself driving to my destination to get a motorbike taxi home and then having to return to the “scene of the crime” the next morning and reclaim my vehicle. Therefore it was with great joy that I learnt of the smart phone app:“Grab Taxi”. Similar to “Uber” that has caused such a furor with black cab drivers in central London, Grab Taxi works by farming out your journey to available drivers in the area. Once installed on your smart phone it finds your current location and then allows you to put in your destination (if your exact spot isn’t available I’ve found going for a nearby hotel or landmark works well) and then finds you a taxi. The acknowledgement usually comes through in less than a minute with the price of the journey - so no annoying bartering or misunderstanding about the cost of fare when the journey is over and a picture and telephone number for your driver comes up on screen with a tracker to show just how many minutes distance the taxi is from you.
The Blue Olive When news of the death of Master Chef Raymond Schmale hit Thai Visa back in 2014 many wrote of their sadness for the loss of this popular bon viveur but also their concern at how the restaurant many of them quoted as being “one of their favourites in Pattaya” would fare without him. For known as he was as a great personality around town, he also was also an accomplished food wholesaler which obviously meant that the quality of produce offered at The Blue Olive was always excellent. Personally I always enjoyed my selections from the extensive menu and great value for money. However being big on ambience I have to say that my one criticism was that I found the lighting rather bright and harsh, especially in the evenings when I hankered for something a little softer than a bright Gastro kitchen. I was therefore very happy to see that this issue had been addressed in a recent visit for dinner at The Blue Olive. The menu is still very varied with Mediterranean, Mexican and Thai selections including some real specialities such as the Salmon Gravaleaux with sour cream and potato pancakes, lamb shank and really excellent steaks. The purchasing of the produce is obviously still well catered for and the presentation and care with which each course is served shows that Raymond’s traditions still live on. Also good news for the bargain hunter – their lunch offer is only 220 baht and the 3 course set dinner menu was only 695 baht with unbelievably generous portions (don’t be embarrassed about requesting a doggy bag ). Also wine was offered at a mere 550 baht for a 1 litre carafe with choice of house red or whites or 795 for a bottle of the promotion wine of the month. For anyone like me who has neglected this little gem in Soi 8 off Thepprasit Road for too long – go back and give it another try. Your stomach and your wallet will thank you – and Blue Olive management you may want to update your Facebook to show your customers that you are still a great little going concern. If you have any thoughts, suggestions or comments please write to me “Belinda Bargain Hunter” at:pattayabargainhunter@ outlook.com ALL PRICES AND OFFERS WERE CORRECT AT THE TIME OF GOING TO PRESS. NO RESPONSIBILITY CAN BE TAKEN FOR ANY OFFERS BEING WITHDRAWN OR OUT OF STOCK.
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Pattaya International Ladies Club welcomes ladies from all over the world with a common goal:“a wish to create a social network with lots of friendly faces.”
In fact “lots of friendly faces” will be there to greet you whenever you attend a PILC function. Established in 1987 The Pattaya International Ladies Club now has a membership of over 200 women of all ages, from 34 countries, and all walks of life. With the growth of PILC has come the opportunity to offer a wide range of activities and social events such as :
Coffee Morning at the Varuna Yacht Club If the shops seemed unusually empty on the morning of the PILC's coffee morning it was because 83 of the most fashionable shoppers in the city were enjoying an opportunity to meet their friends at the venerable Royal Varuna Yacht Club. Four new members, doubtless swayed by the beautiful view and friendliness of the group, also joined us that day – Deepika Bhateja from India, Donna Peck from Australia and Birgit Cruz Momiz and Evi Hoffman from Germany. Welcome ladies; we hope you had a wonderful time, met some new people and allowed yourselves to forget your diets for the day and enjoy the delicious spread prepared for us. Once again we have to thank Helle and her Committee (especially Sue Tait, our current Hospitality person) who arranged for us to enjoy a wonderful ‘day at the seaside’. What better way to lift flagging spirits than to watch the various vessels sail by and imagine ourselves enjoying a cruise to exotic places – preferably on a Khashoggi yacht, up to our armpits in comfort, champagne glasses in hand, wind running through our hair. Now is the time to start thinking about serving on the 2016 PILC Committee. This is a good opportunity for members to get involved and to see what we are all about. There is so much more to PILC than delicious food, beautiful venues, having fun and catching up with friends – delightful though all of that is. If you want to see what is behind the façade that most people see as they go about their daily lives in Thailand’s second city, ask about the Welfare Projects which your membership fees and profits from the various PILC events help to support. Or maybe you’re a whiz with figures and would like to help the current Treasurer? Or you’re a born organizer, or great in marketing and have creative ideas which you’d like to share? There are plenty of positions to go round and if you think you’d like to ‘have a go’ in some area, but don’t yet feel confident, most positions have ladies willing to support you or to share with you.
The PILC Annual General Meeting & Lunch takes place on Tuesday February 2nd 2016 at the :
Holiday Inn Hotel 463/68 Pattaya Sai 1 Road, Pattaya Beach Road Registration is from 10:30 with the meeting starting promptly at 11 a.m. So if you’re interested in any area, please contact Helle (our President): presidentpilc@gmail.com Remember, you only get out of life what you put into it and we promise that you’ll really enjoy yourself in the process.
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SCHOOL AND EDUCATION SPECIAL
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By Belinda Wilson
| HEALTH & WELLNESS
New Year New You ?
with the experts at Pratumnak Medical Center
S
o now that the hangover is over and you’ve had time to look again at your New Year’s Resolutions casting out the downright silly and concentrating on the more achievable and desirable, how about a long hard look in the mirror to see whether a few minor improvements might help with the “New You for 2016”. If you then decide that some help is definitely needed and exercise and diet alone just aren’t going to cut it, then you should really consider putting yourself in the capable hands of the staff at Pratumnak Medical Center. The place just oozes efficiency from the spotlessly clean and pristine surroundings to the confident, quiet charm of all the staff Previously known as Sure Cell this clinic at the top of Soi 6 Pratumnak offers so many treatments and medical procedures, they have decided to rename themselves and have found that their new name: Pratumnak Medical Center is far more suited to explain the variety of procedures available. In fact their cosmetic offerings alone are many and varied and Dr Li the resident expert in this field personifies everything you want in terms of efficiency with the added reassurance of explaining every step of every procedure before anything is done. He also has a gentle sense of humour that can relax you and take away any last minute jitters. Dr Li has spent over ten years in private clinics and really knows everything you need to know about the rejuvenation processes available, even keeping up to speed with recent and future developments to see which might be of use to his faithful clients. In fact over the years many of his clients have continued to ask for him by name for the many cosmetic procedures such as:
Botox where he has many years of experience in the field and is not frightened of telling his patients “enough is enough”. For just like the experience of having a tattoo it is also possible for people to get addicted to the continual needles in the face - we’ve all seen the much publicised results of this and the “wind tunnel effect” it can produce so No Mr Li will not continue to inject when he believes enough is enough but rather will discuss with you his recommendations and explain everything thoroughly before you begin. Fillers also have to be carefully administered. Again the celebrity magazines are full of faces that have been made completely unrecognisable by over use and it is essential that these be given by specialists as they can completely alter the shape of the face. Therefore Dr Li will use Botox and fillers but conservatively. He is far more interested in keeping a long term relationship with his patients rather than just going for the cut price quick fix. As he says the price wars often advertised on hoardings around town need to be approached with caution as often a cheapening of the price is achieved by the use of lower quality materials and less experienced practitioners - and you really don’t want to be taking a gamble on your face !
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
Thread Lifting
is another new term for a procedure where a thread is inserted at the side of the skin and pulls and lifts the skin (usually used on the lower ½ of the face) with the threads then disappearing in a couple of months. This is because they are made from protein which dissolves and helps with the healing process. All these are the non invasive, new age, no operation procedures and preferable to invasive processes that can be non reversible, nerve injuring and sometimes lead to infection.
PRP Treatment
However what is really special about this cosmetic department and as you would expect from a medical centre whose specialty is stem cell treatments, they of course offer Cosmetic PRP to their customers which is also a non invasive procedure with many benefits over the previously mentioned treatments . It lasts longer, can be used across the entire face and is a real alternative to botox injections of potentially harmful fillers and foreign substances using the body’s own ability to heal and regenerate itself. A small amount of the patient’s own blood is taken and separated into red blood cells and a platelet rich plasma portion. This portion contains white blood cells and growth factors which are then injected into the skin to stimulate the repair and regeneration of tissue. This helps to increase production of collagen and elastin and also fat cells to plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Also without the use of chemicals there are no adverse reactions and better, longer lasting results as the actual quality, elasticity and texture of the skin improves. This treatment not only combats lines and wrinkles but also gives the skin an all over improved look in terms of youthfulness and improved elasticity with the reassurance that no potentially harmful, foreign matter is being introduced into the body. So if your New Year’s Resolutions include giving yourself a more youthful appearance go see what the Pratumnak Medical Center can do for you.
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POPULAR THAI COSMETIC SURGERY
People get cosmetic surgery for a number of reasons. But one thing is certain it is personal choice and nobody forces plastic surgery treatment on anybody. There are occasions that it is due to medical advice, altering a birth defect or because of an accident or some traumatic event. But for most it is a case of an attempt to alter a feature they have never liked or that they wish to look younger. The decision is purely personal and one of the key pieces of advice is to set realistic expectations. Cosmetic surgery will not change your life and will definitely not make you look like somebody else but it can increase self confidence. In some countries and regions different styles and appearances are prefered to others. For instance in Asia often a Korean type, upwards pointing nose is very fashionable.
THAI POPULAR COSMETIC SURGERY In Thailand as in a lot of Asian countries one of the most popular areas for cosmetic surgery is the face, and in particular the nose. Nose Surgery can entail three different procedures: Alarplasty, Nose Implant and Nose Reshaping. The general term for nose surgery is Rhinoplasty and is the reshaping the nose. Rhinoplasty can make the nose larger, smaller or alter the tip of the nose changing the angle.
ALARPLASTY Alarplasty is a cosmetic technique for the purpose of narrowing wide nostrils. It is probably the best surgery treatment to opt for if you are not happy with receiving full rhinoplasty. To have effective Alarplasty you must be above 15 years of age as that is when the nose is fully developed. The surgical procedure involves making an incision at the point where the nasal wall meets the cheek. This makes it possible for tissue, skin and muscle to be trimmed or reduced. Alarplasty in Thailand is very effective as it produces very good results.
NOSE IMPLANT Nose surgery is popular across the globe but particularly popular in Thailand. It is the most defining feature of the face and has the most influence of the overall balance and aesthetic appeal of the facial features. Nose implants are generally used to lift and define the bridge and to accentuate the tip of the nose. The Korean pointed tip is extremely popular with Thai’s. Nose implants can also be used to correct trauma after an accident or genetic defect. The surgery can make a drastic change to the overall appearance of the face, defining the nose and thereby balancing the features of the face. The treatment is especially effective if the person has a low or flattened nose.
NOSE RESHAPING The nose is the most prominent feature of the face. The fact that it has the most dramatic influence of the overall appearance of a person it is the feature that attracts the most attention. Having a small or large nose can definitely affect the confidence of a person and it can lead to psychological problems. Such problems could increase low self esteem and a reluctance to join in socialising.
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| FOOD & DRINK
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Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
MUSIC
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| FOOD EXPAT& LIVING DRINK
by Kevin Cain
ALIBABA TANDOORI AND CURRY RESTAURANT Alibaba's is one of Pattaya's landmark restaurants and is known not just as one of the premier Indian restaurants in the city but one of the premier restaurants full stop. The location is enviable on Central Pataya Road, very close to Soi LK Metro and extremely easy to find. Just look out for the opulent exterior decorated as the outside of a stone cave, invoking scenes of the fabled and infamous Arabian Nights. Alibaba is also one of the city's oldest dining experiences,first opening its doors in 1984 and servicing Indian food lovers demands ever since. What surprises some people is the description Tandoori and Curry restaurant. For me there is a distinct difference between a Curry House and an Indian Restaurant. A Curry House, although also delicious, normally has three or four cauldrons of sauce perpetually on the boil and meat, fish or vegetables are added to make the final dish. A restaurant tends to make individual dished prepared and cooked freshly as customers order. On your arrival you will be greeted by a waiter clad as an Indian Hindu Groom and led up the stairs to the restaurant on the first floor. The dÊcor is plush to say the least, the ceiling is low and decorated in gold. This gives the impression of a very intimate restaurant although its four dining areas can accommodate up to 220 diners either in comfy, intimate booths or larger tables for groups. The menu is designed to be simple for choice and offers some mouth watering selections that are different from the normal run of the mill Indian fare. Try to go with the waiters’ suggestions as they are very knowledgeable about their cuisine and will definitely guide you down the right path. Alibaba is adept at offering scintillating meat and fish dishes in tandem with a rich
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FOOD & DRINK
and varied vegetarian selection. Apart from everybody's favourite dishes there are a few stunning surprises that are also on offer and worth serious consideration: Starters: All the usual suspects are to be found from Onion Bhaji's to Samosas and Pakoras, perhaps try Alibaba's rendition of Fish Fingers for something a little different. This is something that Alibaba should be good at as it features in their actual name. And the restaurant does not disappoint. There is a vast selection of sumptuous Tandoori platters to choose from but my advice is to go for one of the specialty offerings. Alibaba 20 Thieves is a mixed Tandoori selection for two people, it includes meats, seafood, vegetables and cheese. Or if your party is slightly larger opt for the Alibaba 40 Thieves platter, this is a fantastic mixed dish of chicken, lamb, fish, prawn, vegetables and cottage cheese all cooked in the onsite Tandoor oven.
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Curries: If you have a more simple pallet then all the old favourite curries are on offer using classic recipes and fresh ingredients. Simply delicious, proving there is nothing wrong with tried and proven dishes. Thalis: Not everybody has the addition of a Thali on their menus. Basically it is a tray (thali) filled up with selected tasters of small portions of food.The Shakari Tali is a vegetarian option where selected vegetarian dishes are chosen to provide an exciting mixture of tantalising tit bits for consumption. If you select a Masahari Thali then meat and fish are also included. Both Thali's include some sort of bread offering. Whatever your taste buds prefer, Alibaba Tandoori and Curry Restaurant has something for everybody. Sit in the opulence of the air-conditioned dining rooms, relax and let some of the old Arabian Night's atmosphere pamper you.
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| EXPAT LIVING
THE BURAPA BIKE WEEK 2016
By Kevin Cain
A
fter the massive success of the 2015 Burapa Pattaya Bike Week the crossbar has been raised for this year’s event to at least match if not exceed all expectations. This year the event is to be held at The Pattaya Sports Arena on the 13th and 14th February 2016. That is the official two days of the event although during the days that proceed and follow there are all kinds of bike themed activities being held everywhere in the city. Last year thousands of big bike enthusiasts from all over the world descended on Pattaya to celebrate the 18th Burapa Bike week. Really it was an opportunity for groups of bikers in the eastern provinces and other parts of the country to mingle with many like minded foreigners to have a get-together. The event was held in Eastern Region stadium and there were four main categories of bikes on display. Classic Bikes, American Bikes, Chopper Bikes and Indian Bikes each showcasing some of the best examples of their kind in Thailand. It was the biggest and best event held so far and exceeded everybody's expectations. The theme of the week was welcome home and it rubber stamped the feeling of a fraternity gathering and meeting old friends. An estimated 50,000 actual bikers attended the event with another 50,000 interested sightseers joining in on all the fun. Last yer the highly popular peace ride throughout the city, visiting Pattaya's famous landmarks was a huge success. Tourists lined the streets to watch the loud but riveting drive-by and were captivated at the awesome machines on display. Biker groups from Europe, America and Asia all attended the event and an estimated 10,000 extra hotel rooms were booked as a consequence.
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EXPAT LIVING On the evening of the 12th a spectacular pre-event concert took place in front of and inside Club Endorphin on Walking Street. A mixed crowd of bikers, tourists, models and musicians all gathered to witness Bumblefoot Thal of Guns N' Roses perform Sweet Child of Mine to a rapturous applause. But the fun did not end there as The Bonesmen took to the stage and rocked the house with Do It Again. It was a perfect curtain raiser for the whole weekend and had Pattaya buzzing in anticipation for the following days fun and events. However, there is a more serious side to the Burapa Bike Weekend and that is money. Firstly the bars, restaurants, hotels and local shops all benefit from the massive influx of Bikers that descend on the city and more surprisingly many charities also benefit from donations raised. Each Biker group selects their own charity and busily collects donations all over the weekend. Charities from all over Thailand benefit from the hard work and generosity of these noisy, fun-loving visitors and long may it continue. This all whets the appetite for the 2016 Burapa Bike Week and the anticipation that it will really live up to last year’s event. If you have not already booked your accommodation then it would be a sensible idea to do it quickly as the hype is that 2016 is going to be even bigger and better. Whatever is already penciled in your diary for 2016 ensure that the 13th and 14th of Februrary is free and make sure you get ringside seats for one of the best weekends held in the city.
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| SPORT & LEISURE
By Glenn Cowan
Are You Ready for the Golden Super Bowl? This year’s Super Bowl, which of course is the 50th edition of the sporting spectacle takes place on Feb 7th 2016. An advertising bonanza and often criticized (by me) for the game taking a ridiculous amount of time, did you know that a 30 sec commercial will set you back a cool $5M? It’s perhaps little wonder that they want to get as many ads in as humanly possible! To better put this into perspective, the 2015 event had just over 12 mins of actual football being played. The remainder of the mammoth 4-hour television show was littered with replays, halftime shows (more on that later), shots of players loitering between plays, and of course ads, ads and more ads…. Lets do some more numbers on this. Btw, I did actually research this - it isn’t made up! Without exaggerating, every single minute of gameplay, the 2015 Super Bowl generated over $45M in TV advertising revenue!
the Seahawks, having thrashed the Denver Broncos 43 - 8 in the previous years event. Other results were: • 2013 - Baltimore Ravens beating San Francisco 49ers • 2012 - New York Giants beating the New England Patriots • 2011 - The Green Bay Packers turning over the Pittsburgh Steelers I could have given all the scores, but believe me it would have been as boring for you to read as it would for me to write. Anyone wanting to know then please refer to Google.
Halftime Show Despite announcements that the half time show would feature “multiple acts” it has been confirmed that the show will be headlined by British supergroup Coldplay.
Those who are committed to watching the whole spectacle (perhaps they need commiting) will see plenty of airing from Anheuser-Busch InBev (Budweiser to you and me), Doritos and QuickBooks. Yawn…err, can’t wait!
The Golden Super Bowl Dubbed by many as the “Golden Super Bowl”, CBS will telecast the game in the United States.Canny readers might already be questioning why it’s being named Super Bowl 50, rather than the time observed fashion of adopting the roman numerals. This would have made it Super Bowl L, which of course is the roman lettering for 50. Unofficially it is believed that the marketing teams would have found it more difficult to get to grips with coming up with an effective design for the logo - madness rules
Recent History In one of the closest matches for some time, the 2015 final saw New England Patriots running out 28 - 24 winners over the Seattle Seahawks. This was a back to back final appearance for
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SPORT & LEISURE
It was thought that Adam Levine (Maroon 5) would have jumped at the chance to appear as the main act; however, on this occasion it was not to be. It is believed that the band did make it to the shortlist - better luck next time. Adam shouldn’t be too disappointed as there were quite a few mega stars that also missed out; including, Metallica, One Direction, Bruno Mars, Adele and Beyonce!
Not sure if we'll even get to witness the halftime show over here, given that Thai broadcasters do like to run an advert or two themselves! Truth be known, I would have much preferred Maroon 5 to Coldplay, any day of the week.
When and Where in Pattaya? Without trying to contradict the opening passage, the game is due to kick off at 6:30 AM on Monday 8th Feb. Of course this is our local time, so if you miss it please don’t blame me! Normally a Super Bowl event is a big event in town. What self respecting landlord would give up an opportunity to have a captive audience for 4 hours solid? Think of all that revenue to be made on beer, food and bar fines! lol Expect to be able to tune in at a wide variety of establishments, including: • I-Rovers • Jamesons Irish Pub • Kilkenny Bar • Legends Pool & Sports Bar • Witherspoons • Frasers
Terminology Okay, probably should have got to this bit a little bit earlier; however, here we go. For those who would consider themselves to be American Football “newbies” then this overview might help a little: Black Monday - The day after the final Sunday of the NFL season. Usually this day is connected with a good number of coaches either resigning or being fired from their positions. Blowout - A game in which one team dominates the other after opening the scoring. Running up the Score - Oddly, this practice is discouraged. However, it refers to a situation when it is obvious that one team will end up the winners by a clear margin and continue to pile on the score! Squib Kick - A type of kick-off when the ball is kicked low (intentionally) the ball bounces on the ground before being picked up, hopefully to prevent a long return. Hail Mary - A long pass, often late in the game. The ball is thrown towards a group of receivers located in or near the end zone. Pretty much last resort time! These are only just a handful of the phrases that are used during the spectacle of an American Football game. One that isn’t used, that perhaps should be is the name of the game itself. Americans have an insistence that it is called football; however, on closer inspection it might be better being renamed hand egg, as this is a closer reflection of what’s it’s all about. Not wishing to offend. The reality is the ball is egg shaped and spends most of the time in someone’s hand. This differs greatly from football which is played with a round ball and is kicked, with the foot! Let’s get ready to rumble (wrong sport?). Oh well, you know what I mean. Set the correct date and time in your calendar and organize where you are going to watch the Super Bowl 50.
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| SPORT & LEISURE
H
i Folks, I normally just do bottom fishing at the Hin Pra Nang reef 2 klms south of Koh Krok. However this time I came with live minnows which I got close to the dock at Naban. Whilst I had a bottom rig with squid out, I put a float rig with 2 hooks set at 3 metres down and my trolling rig 4lb braid with a 6lb fluorocarbon trace to a small hook with live minnows. I let this rig out about 15 metres and bait would be kept on the surface by the dropping tidal current. I thought this would work to catch horse mackerel and small queen fish. Oddly the rig kept coming back with no bait and no bite registered on the rod. I did not know what was causing the lost bait. Finally I baited up with a thin squid strip, let out the line and straight away the rod twitched. Striking the rod I missed a fish but twitching the rod got another hit and this small queen fish stayed on. It was almost none stop action as if I missed a fish, by reeling in quickly another would hit the bait. Good fun as these queens sometimes jump, and as their bigger 3 kg plus ones do, want to swim passed the boat. I also got 3 horse mackerel this way. Then as the tidal current slowed down, so did the bite, a lot of fun on light tackle. I went back on a rising tide but the wind coming from the north made it impossible to get the bait any distance from the boat. I usually go squidding close to the guest houses at Naban. Anchoring up in two metres of water at 4pm and cast into the shallows. However this time there was no bite, so I cast in all directions until I got some results. When twilight came I pulled up the anchor and counted twenty two squid. Then I went to my trolling spot and stayed until 7pm and counted another nineteen squid. A great outing, it was like three years ago, I just could not miss and when I got home the catch weighed in 2.3 kg or 5.5 lbs. My mechanic at Duck Square (if you have a Yamaha or Honda outboard this guy and his son are well recommended!) was very pleased when I dropped by with the squid and half a dozen horse mackerel.
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By Roger
I use the same rig as I do for trolling for horse mackerel, a light 6ft rod, 4lb braid onto a small swivel with 6lb fluorocarbon. The braid’s no stretch means that I can tell the difference between snagging a rock (a sharp tug) and a squid (a soft tug that gives). I lift high the long light rod as soon as a squid hits so any jetting by the squid the power is absorbed by the rod bending. With the less visible 6lb fluorocarbon, this is a deadly combination; if the squid are present I’ll catch them. Just the other day I was squidding in between the guesthouses, and I casted close to a house on stilts over the sea. I did not see the splash of the lure so I thought that the lure had landed on the balcony so I jerked the rod back hoping to see the lure land in the sea. Imagine my horror as the clothes stand with four shirts on it lurched towards the sea, only being stopped by the back legs resting on the wall. I motored and then paddled close in, and I was able to reach up and free the lure. Then using the paddle I was able to upright the clothes stand. Phew! Last year we did not have a “winter” it has stayed hot all the time, even with a north wind. I think this has affected the general fishing. Fish normally need colder water to spawn in, and so will head out into deeper water. Early last month when the temperature dropped I had a bumper day with my fishing buddy. Thirty four horse mackerel, most between 400gms and 500 gms and a couple of big ones all in one spot over a four hour period. Four days earlier we trolled all round Koh Larn in the heat and got nine fish, normally a bad summertime bite. Let’s hope next winter will be a real one! If you want any info on fishing tackle shops, or want to show your catch of the day (fish only!) it’s plamafia5@aol.com . Have fun Roger
Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
By Jeff Wylie
Bob Makes the Finale Count
SPORT & LEISURE
December 2015 PAGS Tournament from Emerald
The December PAGS tournament rolled around a little earlier than normal, to facilitate the Xmas/New Year holiday season. There were 103 keen golfers, which included a small group of Ladies, ready to take on the Emerald course, in what could only be described as good conditions. The course was in reasonable order, but with preferred lies on the closely mown surfaces, it meant accurate tee shots were rewarded. Firm fairways providing plenty of run, with the greens offering plenty of challenges in their own right. Clear skies, but combined with a 1 to 2 club breeze, which seemed to diminish through the day, meant there were still plenty of challenges for the gathered throng. This being the finale, with the Order of Merit very open and still to be decided, there was plenty of incentive for all the golfers, to go along with the usual array of Monthly prizes. While the breeze kept most scores down, the Ladies showed the way with some spectacular scoring. None better than the winner, Orn (14) with a day’s best of 43 points, also picking up the approach on hole #3. Low Gross winner for the month was Bob Watson (3) who shot a great 71 under the conditions and was able to consolidate his standing in the Order of Merit. Bob also took out the A flight with 40 points to go with his technical prize for the 55 – 64 Long Drive on #18. A series of countbacks was required to decide the minor placings in this flight after 2 players recorded 37 points on the day. 2nd position went to Pekka Tikkanen (12) with a Back 9 of 18 while 3rd was secured by Mike Allidi (2) after his 17 on the homeward 9. Both Pekka & Mike secured a technical prize to go with their minor placings. Equal top points scorer for the Men was winner of C flight for handicaps 20 +, Dave Mateer (28) with a fine 40 points, ahead of Graham Shand (21) and Matti Huomo (20) with 38 and 37 points respectively. In the B flight for handicaps 13 - 19, this month’s winner was Brian Green (15) who signed for 36 points, equal with Gary Saunders (15) with the countback going to the final 6 holes after both had 19 on the back 9. Brian just getting the nod 14 /13 over Gary, while Wolfram Krueger (15) got the bronze medal position with 34 points. Notable technical prize winners were Jack Grinvold and Mike Sanders, who both were able to win the maximum 2 technical prizes each. Drum roll please, and the final Order of Merit placings were Bob Watson well clear at the top with 582 points, with Gerd Riedler a deserved 2nd after leading during the year on 559. Wolfram Krueger secured 3rd spot with 555, ahead of Jeff Wylie, a solitary point behind, as was Tom Thompson in 5th a further point adrift of Jeff. John Fenwick was also recognised for competing in all 12 events. All who attended the final presentation passed on their congratulations to the winners, and gratitude to Shane, Dave and their team for providing another successful Pattaya Amateur Golf Series and look forward to participating again in 2016. Next year’s series kicks off on the 27th January at Phoenix, so make a note of the date, and contact Shane on 0859459689 to ensure your preferred tee time. On a final note for the year, the PAGS team wish all golfers, their families & friends a Merry Christmas followed by a safe and prosperous New Year, Hip Hip Hooray.
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| SPORT & LEISURE
Pattaya Sports Club Founded 36 years ago the Club now boasts a membership of over 11,000. They are all active members who have one thing in common and that is they either live in or visit Pattaya and are made up of people from all over the world. Being a member is more like being part of a community with many sporting events and functions being organized on a regular basis. The Pattaya Sports Club is a lot more than sport and is managed by a committee of ten people who are elected on an annual basis.
Sport
Golf is the most popular sport amongst members with tournaments organized on a monthly basis followed by a presentation and dinner. These tournaments attract up to 180 golfers of all levels who enjoy having a USGA golf handicap maintained as part of the membership package. Golf is run by the Golf Charmin and a committee who negotiate the best golfing rates available. Many golfers play with PSC Golfing Partners who organize golf competitions most days of the week at over 25 courses. Other sports include Badminton, tenpin bowling, cricket, fishing and softball. For a full rundown on all sports http://pattayasports.org/sports/
Charity
Over the last 12 years the club has donated over 30 million baht in cash, goods and services to the less fortunate in our community. Last year alone 3 Million baht was distributed. Charity is managed by the Charity Chairperson and a committee.
Member Discounts
Being a member not only gets great rates on sport but also real discounts on a range of products and services from hospitals, accommodation, meals, vehicle rentals, night clubs and bars to magazines and handyman services. For a full list of Discount Providers visit http://pattayasports.org/information/discounts/
Membership
Annual membership is 500 Baht with a one off joining fee of 400 baht. There is also an option of 6 year Gold Card memberships for 2500 Baht. The Gold Card not only has 6 years value for the price of 5 but also enables further golf discounts at certain golf courses for full details http://pattayasports.org/information/join/
Pattaya Sports Club and Pattaya Trader
In a new initiative Pattaya Trader and the Pattaya Sports Club have joined to bring you a monthly editorial on golf in our great city and surrounds. With over 25 courses within an hour’s drive, Pattaya has to be one of, if not the best golfing destinations in Thailand. So get ready it all starts in our December issue with the write up by Pattaya Sports Club Golf Chairman Maurice Roberts with some great golfing tips by resident golfing Guru Ozzie Bob Watson. Visit the Pattaya Sports Club website for full details about sport and a whole lot more Pattaya Sports Club Phone: 038 361 167 Website http://pattayasports.org/ Located just off 3rd road behind the Pattaya Driving Range
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Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
SPORT & LEISURE
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Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
| MOTOR TRADER
By Edd Ellison
ls e e h ng W
Talki
RECORDS SHATTERED IN BANGSAEN
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attaya race fans were served up a treat as the third season of Thailand Super Series ended on a high note just ‘up the road’ as the Bangsaen Thailand Speed Festival dished up a real thriller for its ninth edition. At the top of the racing tree, Super Car’s glamorous Class 1-GT3 and Class 2-GTM, ended the year with non-stop explosive racing, five races to be precise as for the first time the latter category enjoyed a pressure filled triple-header. The stakes were doubly high in Super Car as there was of course the glory of winning the most prestigious individual races in Thai motorsport but also the titles in both classes were still open. The records fell too as the first ever former Formula 1 driver to win a championship in Thailand, Tomáš Enge, took the prize in the top class while Class 2-GTM welcomed the youngest champion. In Super Car Class 1-GT3 The Czech superstar wound up the big Camaro in the first race, thundered away at the green lights and simply disappeared into the distance, his rivals had no answers to his pace and that was enough to confirm him as the champion. It’s a sign of the changing times here that a driver who has won the Le Mans 24 Hours and raced in F1 is now a champion in Thailand. In the second race a thrilling showdown between Tomáš and his teammate Jack Lemvard seemed all set to play out, a duel between master and apprentice, the highly experienced pro versus the Thai driver with probably more raw speed than any other. It didn’t last too long though as the Camaro soon cried enough and Tomáš couldn’t add to his three straight wins on the streets of Bangsaen. In Class 2-GTM B-Quik brought in guest driver Darryl O’Young for a second year to bolster their strength and for a second year no one had any answers to him at the finishline although he faced relentless pressure throughout the weekend. In the end though he walked away with three poles and three wins from the three races and added to his double pole and double win on his first visit here last year that made it five straight poles and five wins. If he chooses to come back next year for a third time everyone is going to have to dig much deeper. Then to the Super Car Class 2-GTM champion. When you are regarded as Thailand’s most promising young prospect and you are learning your craft in touring cars then the pressure isn’t really too high and even on your graduation year in Super Car when you are driving an unloved Porsche that is weighed down by ballast and about as unpleasant as it gets, then little is also expected. But when the championship winning team signs you up and gives you a front running Ferrari to drive the pressure goes straight through the roof.
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That was the state of play for our ‘local’ driver Kantasak Kusiri this year as Singha Motorsport Team Thailand called him up to drive alongside the reigning champion Voravud Bhirombhakdi. Few people at this level of motorsport get handed a front running car to drive, he was expected to win the title and he had to win the title. His team expected it, the paddock did and so did the fans. It was as simple as that. That’s a heck of lot of pressure to place on a small, slender, quiet 24-year-old driver.
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MOTOR TRADER In the first race of the year a technical issue hit Kantasak and that cost him a maximum points score meaning he would be fighting to recover lost ground all season. The pressure was really on him all year and when you are Kantasak every missed gear and every locked brake is noticed and pointed out. But when the going gets tough the tough get going and the ‘wonderkid’ dug in, soaked up the pressure and when it came to the final showdown on the streets of Bangsaen, where many big reputations have been broken, he put it all together superbly, calmly dealing with the established star names jostling around him for the victory on these narrow and treacherous streets and delivered three big points scores from the three races to wrap up the title in style. His engineer, Don Chiewcharnvlichkij, dubbed him 'The Rocket' and it seemed wholly appropriate. But that’s not to forget his rival Craig Corliss is a driver who never gives up and never gives less than 110%, but the streets of Bangsaen quite simply don’t suit the big Holden. He dug in and drove three totally committed races that saw him fighting up the order, in particular in the second race, where he disdainfully barged his way through a mid order that was seemingly unable to get the passes in, stands out. The big New Zealander left as a very deserved vice champion and reconfirmed his status as a crowd favourite. It didn’t stop there though and there was thrilling action throughout the running order in both classes and it was all fought out in front of thousands of fans in the blistering dry heat of Bangsaen which was tipping into the mid 30 degrees daily. So that was the ninth edition, the biggest and best to be held yet, while it really was the perfect curtain raiser to the prestigious tenth anniversary edition coming up in 2016.
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| MOTOR TRADER
By Edd Ellison
SENSATIONAL SUPER 2000 ACTION IN BANGSAEN
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hailand's top touring car category, Super 2000, is a firm favourite with the fans as it offers some of the closest racing action you are likely to find anywhere, contact is a way of life in this discipline and it breeds drivers that can take on just about anybody, anywhere. It's regarded as the most competitive touring car category in South East Asia and certainly boasts the biggest grids in the region. Unleash that Super 2000 ‘formula’ onto the tight, tricky and unforgiving streets of Bangsaen and you have a recipe for utterly explosive action and this year was to be no different. Not only was the glory of winning the individual races up for grabs at the 9th Bangsaen Thailand Speed Festival but also the title fight was mixed in. In terms of outright race wins there was a new name up in lights on the Sunday afternoon, Kittipol Pramoj Na Ayudhya. He's a relatively new name to top-level racing here and just five years ago he was pottering around in a beautifully finished classic racing Alfa Romeo. But Kittipol has steadily and surely worked his way up the ranks of Super 2000 and earned his spurs to become a solid podium fixture and really his first outright win was becoming overdue. In a category where ruthless mental strength and the ability to totally focus over a fast changing full race distance are paramount to attaining victory Kittipol has tuned himself up perfectly to the task in hand, he's now an accomplished marathon runner and the mental strengths needed to grittily and determinedly pace himself to the finish on foot while digging ever deeper and deeper into his reserves, translate straight to the cockpit. While other leading drivers couldn't stand the heat and quickly joined the 'DNF' ranks Kittipol emerged from the Super 2000 carnage on the streets of Bangsaen, albeit with a tiny little bit of luck, with not one but two outright victories to his name and clearly he must now be placed amongst the favorites for the championship title next year. In fact he also claimed double Class B victory and thus made four trips to the most prestigious podium in Thai motorsport.
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MOTOR & MARINE
Meanwhile the championship title went right to the wire and it had a sting in the tail. Bangsaen never adheres to the formbook – never, this is a circuit that demands utter respect and this year was to be no different. Jack Lemvard came into the weekend with a workable 10 point cushion at the top of the standings in Vattana Motorsport's handy BMW E90 over the RMI’s Racing Team Honda DC 5 driven by Pasarit Phromsombat. When the former was snarled up in carnage at the start of Race 1 and tried to limp to the finish the latter kept out of the worst of the trouble and does what he does best, grabbing points.
Last year Pasarit took the title fight in Super Production all the way to the last flying lap of the second race in Bangsaen to finally turn the tables on his neck to neck rival and win the title by a single point, this year he took the Super 2000 fight to the last race although not exactly to the checkered flag as when Jack's stand in car for Race 2 abruptly expired on the warm-up lap it was all over. Very impressive work by Pasarit, who now has two championship titles won in two different categories in consecutive years to his name. Great work by the irrepressible Jack too, it must be quickly added, and he wasn’t in anyway at fault that the title slipped from his grasp. Two great titans of Thai motorsport locking horns but there could be only one winner and the mean streets of Bangsaen were to decide the outcome. And in Class B Rudolf Yu came from behind, hooked it all together, kept out of trouble and got the job done.
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| MOTOR & MARINE
Disabled Sailing Association Thailand to set sail for the first time on January 16, 2016 Disabled Sailing Association Thailand is a group of people promoting disabled sailing in Thailand. Their inaugural event will take place on the 16th of January 2016. Around 60 disabled people will sail on three magnificent catamarans from Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Pattaya. The objective of the event is to introduce people with disabilities to sailing. The ultimate goal is for Thailand’s disabled sailors to represent their country in either the Sailing Para Olympics or Special Olympics. Currently, other Asian member states have disabled sailing teams, including Singapore, Malaysia, The Philippines and Indonesia. History shows that Thailand has a long tradition in sailing and racing. His Majesty the King of Thailand has led the way with sailing as a sport in Thailand. Like his father, a former military naval engineer, Bhumibol proved to be an avid boat designer and builder. His designs in the Moth class include the "Mod," "Super Mod," and "Micro Mod. He also won a gold medal in 1967. Disabled Sailing Thailand’s main objective is to teach sailing to disabled people. It will allow them to acquire new skills and to improve their confidence while enjoying a healthy sport. It will also open new opportunities for them to represent Thailand in an international competitive sport. The flotilla will be leaving Ocean Marina at 13:30 on Saturday the 16th of January 2016. For more information, check the website: www.disabledsailingthailand.com or contact info@disabledsailingthailand.com Peter Jacops 086 826 1669 (Eng.) Pat Tippawan 094 8214363 (Thai) Families are welcome to come and watch. The boats will be crewed by experienced sailors. The afternoon sailing will be an introduction to sailing for anyone with a disability.
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MOTOR & MARINE
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By Kevin Cain
PATTAYA PERSONALITIES
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attaya from it's humble beginnings as a small coastal fishing village has rapidly grown to the lively global tourist attraction that it is today. Not many people around the world if asked what they know about Thailand would fail to mention Pattaya. Consequently the rapid growth of the city has been down to a select group of early entrepreneurs who all share one common thread, they all believe in themselves and Pattaya. We decided that there must be so many amazing stories and tales of these early pioneers that it would be a great idea to feature the individuals who have made Pattaya what it is today.In the first featured article I was fortunate to be granted an interview with Khun Nicky the President of the spectacular Mimosa Pattaya and it proved to be as enlightening as the place itself. Mimosa opened its doors on Valentines day the 14th February 2013 and rapidly became one of the biggest tourists attractions in Pattaya and the whole of the Eastern Seaboard. Situated on Sukhumvit Road and just ten minutes from the centre of Pattaya it's location could not be better. Upon arriving I was ushered into an airy, bright office and was greeted by a very glamorous lady impeccably dressed all in white. It was my first meeting with Khun Nicky and immediately I was drawn by the engaging smile and the captivating voice. Her story began with a country boy trying to make a living in Bangkok whilst also studying at university. You may ponder at my change in sexual terminology but that will all become apparent later on.Khun Nicky started her working life as a seventeen year old washer up at Pizza Hut in Central Plaza Bangkok. Her duties included washing plates, cutlery, taking the garbage out and cleaning the floors. It was not an auspicious beginning to a highly successful business career but it gave her the foundation of the detail needed to succeed. She had heard stories about the growth of Pattaya and the opportunities that were arising for hard working and open minded people. So having graduated from university, majoring in English language and Humanities, Khun Nicky found herself on a bus from Bangkok to Pattaya with 1,400 Baht in her pocket. Immediately a big smile lit up her face as she relayed the memory and days long passed.
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Things were tough but an opportunity came to work as a receptionist in Surf House Jomtien. Khun Nicky paid particular attention to the tour operators who were sending guests to the hotel and little by little she edged into the tour operating business whilst continuing to work as a receptionist. Within three years at the age of twenty five Khun Nicky was running her own tour business and working as a tour guide. During this time in the evenings she was studying hard in the complex world of ERA Real Estate as she could see the large developers moving into Pattaya and money being made. There were opportunities arising. Ten years after her arrival in Pattaya, Khun Nicky found herself in controll of three businesses and was an expert in travel, real estate and the hotel industry. She had bought a large plot of land and resold it where the Lugana Bay 1 project now stands. It was during this period of her life that Khun Nicky also went through a transformation of another kind. Struggling with her sexuality from an early age as a young boy growing up in the countryside of northern Thailand she now had the money to do something about it. Still working twelve hours a day, Khun Nicky went through all the surgical procedures and counseling and finally became what she always wanted, a woman. She had come such a long way from her humble beginnings and her journey had taken her far from home and family but now she had everything she ever wanted. However her new found wealth and fame started to go to her head and just as fast as she was making money she was spending it. Bit by bit she lost nearly everything and was staring bankruptcy full in the face, her long time relationship was torn apart and things were looking bleak. It was a wake up call and she decided to change her lifestyle and even adopt a baby boy. It took her to 2013 to build her empire back up with a combination of hard work and sheer bloody determination to secure a future for her son. Things began to get back on track and an idea came to her to repay Pataya for everything the city had given her. The foundations of Mimosa were formulating in Khun Nicky's mind, a concept of building a unique tourist attraction that would bring thousands of visitors to the city and support all local businesses and fellow workers. Eventually, after long months and years of planning, Kuhn Nicky's dream finally became a reality and in February 2013 Mimosa finally opened. It became an instant success and more than 3000 people a day now flock through it's doors to visit the boutique shops and to watch the awesome Mimosa Show. Not only is Mimosa a roaring success but Khun Nicky has also started to collect a treasure trove of awards and recognitions including: The representative of the King's Good Person 2013 award, the Thailand Property award 2013 and the Quality Person of the year award 2013. Khun Nicky is also invited to be a guest speaker twice a year at Khon Kaen University to lecture on business development. Her determination to give something back to the community that helped her continues and Khun Nicky is the president of Banglamung Lion's Club and a member of Thailand's Speech Association. She employs around 200 people and brings tourists from far and wide to the area. Khun Nicky's story is really a true life Rags to Riches tale, it is an example to everybody that hard work and determination can produce the golden dream. But one of the things that really stayed with me as I left Mimosa was how grateful Khun Nicky was for her good fortune and her continued persistence to give back to her adopted home. Khun Nicky, a single working mum, is as dedicated to her passion now as she ever was and certainly is one of the people who helped Pattaya grow into what it is today. Mimosa recently dropped all entry fees for Thai Nationals and resident expats, so it is a great time to go and visit the magical kingdom
www.pattayatrader.com
PATTAYA TRADER
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| BUSINESS NEWS
By Dave Thrifty
Do you sometimes feel your brain is drowning in information?
O
ver the past few years it has become more difficult for me to follow the old guy’s advice-KISS, keep it simple stupid.
Right now I am suffering from gout, brought about no doubt by a life of excess as a young man. As soon as the horrible very painful ailment struck I was immediately on to Google to check out what caused it, how I could ease the pain and what was the best way to stop it recurring. I probably know more about it than the best doctors in the world. I can even store all the information on my windows phone and can consult it to check food low in purines said to be one of the causes of gout. This morning I knew nothing of this and the only reason I bring it up is to of course to court sympathy but seriously to just illustrate how much information we are bombarded with. As you know this is a finance and investment colum. Once you’re involved in the finance industry, it is virtually impossible to escape the hurricane flood of information. When I started in this business a few decades ago, I went to an office every day had a nice cup of coffee and ar-
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ranged to meet clients either in the office or at their homes who had money to invest. I worked with Legal & General in the UK and back then they had about nine funds 3 cautious, 3 balanced and 3 speculative. Clients were put in one of these categories dependent on their attitude to risk and most of the time they made money. The client received a written statement every 12 months and on a service call we decided how to proceed for the next twelve months.
Today it’s a different world. If you come to me to invest I can offer you any tradable asset on any world stock market-in other words hundreds of thousands of choices. You can check the valuation of your investment on the internet on a daily basis, receive all the information on a fund by googeling it, watch CNBC or Bloomberg the investment TV channels or download info from Reuters Finance. Most of this information is good. A lot of it is contradictory. One broker will tell you one thing another will tell you the opposite. It’s a bit like the health industry. Years ago I ate horrible margarine because the experts said it was good for you and butter was bad. I read a few months ago that according to the latest experts the opposite is true.
Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
So how near is your brain to being overwhelmed with information? I sometimes think an investor has succumbed when after we have sat down and planned a pension strategy over the next 25 years by picking emerging markets as a constituent, I get a phone call a month later to tell me he is worried that India for instance has dropped over the past month. Of course the customer is always right but maybe sometimes I am too adamant about sticking to an adopted strategy for at least a year. To close I want to tell you about the lifebelt I use to survive this nonstop assault and to finish up giving good advice to my clients. I go back to my Legal & General days and I select the best five fund managers (the best meaning those with the best performance record over the past five and ten years) I select the best five in each category of cautious, balanced and speculative. That gives me fifteen outstanding funds to recommend to clients again matching their investment horizon with their risk profile. Ironically my ability to do this is only brought about by the flow of statistics. What I also love about this strategy is that it is all based on fact, not on opinion.
david.thrifty@yahoo.com
www.pattayatrader.com
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Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
Automotive Seat Toledo 2003
Cars and trucks
Toyota Vios J model .2010. only 45000 km one owner from new FSH. 310,000 baht tel 0868425676 310,000 THB Email: mrbeauch@hotmail.com
100000 km, excellent condition.Call Joseph, 08 46533874 170,000 THB Phone: 08 46533874 Email: baertschi.peter@gmail.com
Seat Toledo 2003
Mazda Miata Roadster For Sell Mazda miata roadster 1.8 manual trans. With 2 original rooftop. (Soft&hard top) mileages 1xx,xxx kms. Excellent condition 650,000bath negotiable price.Please contact : Mr.thumLine id : Thummmkub 650,000 THB Email: aimx52499@gmail.com
Chevrolet Aveo 2010 4 Door Manual
Nice car, excellent condition. Call Joseph, 08 46533874 170,000 THB Phone: 08 46533874 Email: baertschi.peter@gmail.com
Mini Van Toyota For Sale Mini Bus for Sale. Excellent condition. One owner from new. 80,000 km car was used for personal perposes. Diesel D4D, 2010 y. Price THB750,000 750,000 THB Email: mister.rafat@gmail.com
Sell Mitsubishi Gto
Moving sale everything must GO all reduced to clear. Need to clear space stuff out moving in 8 weeks so lots to go for sale. Nice clean Chevy Aveo 4 door, Petrol, manual Gearbox, Cloth Interior, Cold Air MP3 Stereo radio. Silver Color Low Km only 69000km full 1st class Insurance 9 months left, Taxed. Remote key Alarm central locking etc. Quiet running can runs perfect no problems at all. Sell for 225000bt Pattaya 225,000 THB Phone: 038406492 Phone: 0897539751 Email: asianglory@gmx.com
Sell red Mitsubishi 3000 GTO (Japanese Ferrari). Perfect condition, everything original. Mileage only 7X,XXXkm. Automatic Transmission. Full option. 19inch Chrome wheels. Sony CD-Player. Remote control...etc. Price……… only 750,000 Baht 750,000 THB Email: thai_falang@yahoo.com
2014 Toyota Harrier
4 Door Toyota Vigo for Rent PattayaI rent my Vigo 4 door manual gearbox, Diesel, all the usual extras. Per Day 890bt Min 5 days, 1 week 5500bt 1 Month 18500bt Long term 6 months 17500bt 12 months 16500bt. Special Teacher Rate 6 to 12 months 15000bt.1st Class Insurance unlimited Miles.6k Deposit Copy Passport, Drivers License and Address. 890 THB Phone: 038406492 Phone: 0897539751 Email: asianglory@gmx.com Vintage Mersedes For Sale! Urgent sale! For sale unusual, vintage Mercedes-Benz body W116, 1970 model year, mileage corresponds to the age, color dark green, cream leather interior, air conditioning , automatic gear, audio, engine of Toyota 2491 cc, in excellent condition, on a good course, get and go. Price 270,000 baht reasonable objective bargaining at the examination. Саr is in Pattaya. Phone Moscow +79031773863 (Russian), Pattaya +66837804420 (RussianEnglish 270,000 THB Email: korostelevs@rambler.ru
Custom made Black Leather Honda Steed Seat will fit 400 or 600cc Bike. Please view all the photos as part of the description. Sell for 3900bt Pattaya 3,900 THB Phone: 038406492 Phone: 0897539751 Email: asianglory@gmx.com
Honda Msx 125 – 2015 – 55,000baht
HONDA MSX 125 - 2015 - 55,000Baht For sale due to relocation. lots of extras, great bike, low milage, full green book available. 1st to view will buy 55,000 THB Phone: 0907 713 674 Email: hgwarner1307@gmail.com
Reduced !!! Honda Pcx 150i Limited Edition Model (matte Black)
Mazda 323 Protege Lpg MAZDA 323. 4- door sedan.Blue metalic. 2000 year. 277000 km. Engine 1600cc. LPG+ Gasoline. New front tires.Cd radio,automatic transmission,rear sensors, central locking, power steering, power mirrors.Farang owner.Comes with full Mazda service history book.Andy 84,000 THB Email: andrej.urbanija@gmail.com
Motorcycle
Honda Integra Nc700
- You are welcome to test drive at any day and time. (Soi Khaotalo) - My old Price : 78.900 THB - NEW REDUCED PRICE : ★ 68.900 THB ( Discount 10.000 BAHT ) ★ - If you have any questions please call me : 0871351920 / English 68,900 THB Phone: 0871351920 Email: ilgincbirbilgi@gmail.com
7,000 Kilometers, White with black interior, almost new, paid 2,850,000 Loaded with leather, sun roof, etc. like a Lexus. 2,390,000 THB Phone: 0810010820 Email: lonballard@live.com
Year: 2013 Milage: 2100 km no scratches, no accident, as new 330,000 THB Email: zsaverzsavi@gmail.com
www.pattayatrader.com
Honda Steed Custom Leather Seat
Boats
Two Speed Boats For Sale Two speed boats for sale, each boat for 30 pax including captain. Each boat have two Mercure 300 engines. Shower and toilet on board. Boats bulid in Pattaya, one and half year old. Excellent condition. Price THB1,900,000 per boat 1,900,000 THB Email: mister.rafat@gmail.com
For Rent Pattaya 4 Door Toyota Vigo
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Honda Cbr1000rr 2008
8,200 km,euro spec 299 kph Invoice paper + import tax paid Pirelli diablo super corsa tyres, over racing exhaust,titax levers,BMC air filter,k+n oil filter,r+g radiator guard,afam fr+rr sprockets,d.I.d chain,quick action throttle,carbon:rear fender,seat cowl,side covers,chain guard,turn lights,led tail light with turn lights,renthal grips,engine covers,rearsets,hel brake line,hyperpro rear shock spring,MRA cockpit screen oil change every 1000km (motul 300v) always kept inside Excellent condition 350 THB Email: johndurnford24@gmail.com
Business Network Solutions For Your All Business Needs We are IT, power consultant & service providing solutions to small, medium & large organization for more than 3 years. Our solutions are NETWORK SECURITY, DATA STORAGE, UPS, POWER, PRECISION, CLOUD/ DATA CENTER SOLUTIONS, VOICE, PHYSICAL SECURITY, HIRE OF IT INFRASTRUCTURE. Contact mobile77780 26403 *By-CLI0383AA 22-1015 Email: cli0383AA@gmail.com
Business Equipment
Panasonic Pbax Tem 824 For Sale Complete Set Up
Model:kawasaki Z1000 Special Edition, Year : 2013, Mileage: 9335 Kms. (offers Considered)
FOR SALE MODEL:Kawasaki Z1000 Special Edition, YEAR : 2013, MILEAGE: 9335 kms. (Offers Considered) Photos taken on 26th September, 2015 of the actual bike for sale. A fantastic example of this naked sports bike. With 1043cc’s and 138 bhp with a weight of only 213kgs this is one of the lightest but most powerful naked sports bikes in its class. This particular bike is in immaculate condition, has been well maintained, serviced regular and ridden with care. Never been dropped, crashed or over revved. There are no scratches or marks on the paintwork. Plastics all are in as new condition. many extra’s, Vance and Hines Urban Brawler exhausts (COST 28,000 BAHT) Pirelli Diablo Rosso II tires Front and rear, only done 500kms (COST 25,000 BAHT) Tom Tom GPS System and Mount, Made specially for motorbikes. (COST 12,000 BAHT) R + G Engine and Fairing Protectors, both sides. (COST 9000 BAHT) Hyper Steering Damper. (COST 27,000 BAHT) Kawasaki History taxed ONLY 435,000 BAHT 0860295428 435,000 THB Email: jlbventures@gmail.com
Investors Dream Property
A fantastic investment;for sale with tenant, 3 year lease renewable,opportunity with very high returns on rental for 15,000 THB (7.5%). This house is situated in Nibbana Shade,with easy access to shops and markets in Soi Khao Talo, Offers 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, living room, Euro kitchen, fully furnished, 3 air-cons, Internet and cable TV. communal swimming pool,24hr security,Fitness room,Tennis court,Basketball court and Relaxation gardens. 2,500,000 THB Email: giogio225509@gmail.com
Panasonic PBAX TEM 824 for sale complete set up for sale. All you need for a small to medium business, with phones, cables, wires etc. Easy to use and install. Only used for 6 months from new. Open to offers / price negotiable. 9,000 THB Phone: 0854435720 Email: banks.adam@gmail.com
Investments
Am Looking For A Business Partner To Invest With. I have the sum of eight million dollars and am looking for a reliabe and trust worthy business partner that we can invest this funds in a good and profitable business,and i wil appreciates any ideas that you can come up with. 100 THB Email: hitechlaboratory295@gmail. com
PATTAYA TRADER
Businesses for sale
Mr Craig Fletcher
Urgent Sale Language School Pattaya Certified By The Ministry Of Education
- Certified by the Ministry of Education (MOE) - Located along North Pattaya Road - Up and running, good staff in placem, profitable with plenty of students - Possibility to give work permits School under Thai name, License can be transferred easily Please email me forsaleinthailand@gmail.com Direct buyers ONLY! 1,500,000 THB Email: forsaleinthailand@gmail.com
Spa-massage Shop For Sale In Udon Thani.
Nice swimming pool with bar. Possibility to create a big restaurant for with 60 seats. very nice area. 2 units 1 Bar 1 Sitting area both with aircon. 2 Large storage areas possible for staff living quaters 1 large cooking area.This is a private swimming pool with a direct owner contract. Deposit 50,000The rent is 5000 bahts monthly. 500,000 THB Email: canary22015@outlook.com
Business For Sale In South Pattaya Business for sale in South Pattaya. Would easily convert into a restaurant. Shop house with bar and four rooms.Two of which can be rented out.See Google places for business and look for Jasmine Bar south Pattaya you will see photos of bar and rooms. 650000 Baht or near offer. 650,000 THB Phone: 0848769270 Email: leeandmoreagain@gmail.com
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Bar Restaurant For Sale East Pattaya The darkside. Very popular in expat community with seating for 60 and 8 pool teams. Good profits and low overheads. Has 4 years left on 5 year lease. With no key money and low rent. Accounts available. Excellent business. 1.3 million + stock at value. 1,300,000 THB Email: john@dxthai.com
Crystal Spa,,, Massage Shop for sale in Udon Thani,,, All fittings less than one year old,,, Much time & effort put in to create this beautiful spa by myself & business partner Anne who is leaving due to lottery win. Includes 2 Thai massage mats,, 2 Aloma- deep tissue massage tables, 2 Foot massage chairs,,, 2 air conditioners,,, Stereo,,, Wi Fi,,, Printer, Storage cupboards,, for equipment. Along with separate side room with washing machine,,, sink, Fridge & cooker,,,, Small coffee- drinks selling counter outside with Large Patio for drinks & snacks outside. Next to Ruysuk Hotel on Aydunyaded road,,,, rent 8000pm. Building owned by good family who can extend lease as long as you needed,,,,,, 300,000 bht please ring Mark 0627928264. Or Anne. 0862313711. For Details & Viewing,,, 300 THB Email: yogimark@live.com
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Electronics
Aconatic Digital Set Top Box An2301t2 New
- Aconatic digital set top box AN2301T2 - Never used - Location : Pattaya / Soi Khao talo 4 - Price : ★ 1.000 THB ★ - If you have any questions please call me : 0871351920 / English 1,000 THB Phone: 0871351920 Email: ilgincbirbilgi@gmail.com
Active Plus Solar Water Heater Cli0388aa
ACTIVE PLUS - the name that stands for Quality, Reliability and Long life . Active plus solar, the manufacturer is one of the pioneers in promoting use of solar water heaters . Emm vee Solar manufactures eco-friendly and pollution free products that not only go a long way in helping global efforts in conserving the environment, but also helps customers in reducing their electricity bills thereby generating additional savings. Contact mobile96621 66770 CLI0388AA8-12-2015 Email: marvelcompserve01@gmail. com
Expat Television Tv For Expats WORKS WORLDWIDEWatch UK USA German French Italian norway sweden and denmark TV Channels all the mainstream plus sports channels such as Sky,BT Sports,Bien,Espn,Setanta,Fox,Star and Much more.We also provide 1000s of movies including the latest releasesThe box operates via the internet and we provide a free after service and free set up service via email,skype or 12 call phoneOne payment 3999 Baht NO MONTHLY SUBSCRIPTIONS FREE POSTAGE VIA EMS IN Thailand 3,999 THB Email: sugardaddyken100@yahoo. co.uk
www.pattayatrader.com
Mobile Phones
Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Platinum Gold 128gb
The Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Platinum Gold 128GB is brand new sealed in the box and unlocked with all its complete accessories in the box , it is factory unlocked comes with different colors. 400 THB
Factory Unlocked Apple Iphone 6s 64gb
Employment Offering work
Web Developers Wanted AWcode are seeking talented web developers to join our growing team in East Pattaya.If you have over 1 year relevant experience and are familiar with PHP, wordpress and MySQL please send us your resume. Phone: +66815884380 Email: m@awcode.com
Gardener / Handyman We are in need of full time gardener who can drive sometimes and do general maintenance helping owner at times. 5 day week Monday to Friday 07:00 > 16:00 Good salary and long term employment offered 12,000 THB Email: pdthai2013@gmail.com
Factory Sealed Apple iPhone 6S Brand New In The Box iPhone 6S Apple EarPods with Remote and Mic Lightning to USB cable USB power adapter Documentation 1 Year Warranty Skype: Live:mobilexinc Tel.: +12097105263 WhatsApp:+1(530)3640307 or +254710116711 Email: Mobilexinc@hotmail.com 700 THB Email: Mobilexinc@hotmail.com
Hobby and Sport Pool Table For Quick Sale. Excellent Condition - No Defect!
Desktop PCs
Due to storage space is needed, serious buyer needed for a near new pool table. Size 8x4 Ft. 6 legs with a S M Computer Services Computer granite top. Price 34K is inclusive of Sales And Services all accessories, installation, leveling S M Computer Services: computer by professional and delivery. Please sales and services. We deal in contact David 0954159959. computer system, networking, 34,000 THB Linux, server, laptop printer. All kind Phone: 0954159959 of Computer peripherals repairing Email: britishexpatthailand@gmail. and selling. For more information com contact us +91-9904080395 or mail us on smcomputersahd@gmail.com Email: hi5savigang@gmail.com
Cameras
Brand New Original Canon Eos 5d Mark 3 Camera Brand new original Canon EOS 5D Mark 3 Camera with complete accessories and 12 months warranty Skype: original.product1 35,950 THB Email: myrights001@gmail.com
Sell Brand New Yamaha Tyros 5 76 Key
Yamaha Tyros 5 76 Key Arranger Workstation Keyboard with stand speakers Accessories: Manual, AC Power Cable, Music Stand, CD-Rom Package Content : AC power cord Music rest and brackets CD-ROM Owner 1,700 THB
Buy New: Yamaha Tyros5-yamaha Tyros4-yamaha Psr S950-yamaha Psr S910-yamaha Psr S750-korg Pa3x KEYBOARDSYamaha Tyros 5 76 key Keyboard Yamaha Tyros 4 61 Key Keyboard Yamaha Tyros 3 61 Key Keyboard Yamaha Motif XS8 88-key Yamaha Motif keyboard XS7 76-Key Yamaha Tyros2 61-Key Keyboard Yamaha PSR-S700 61-Key Portable Yamaha PSR-S900 - 61-Key Keyboard Yamaha PSR-S910 - 61Key Keyboard Yamaha PSR-S950 - 61-Key Keyboard Yamaha 88-key synthesizer S90ES Yamaha MO6 61-key synthesizer Yamaha S08 Synthesizer 88 keys Yamaha LS9-32 Digital Mixing ConsoleYamaha LS916 Digital 48kHz Mixing Console with 16 ChannelsYamaha 01V96VCM Digital Mixing ConsoleKorg Pa3X Professional Arranger WorkstationKorg Pa2xpro 76 Key Pro Arranger Pro Keyboard Korg PA800 PRO ARRANGE Korg M388 88 Key Keyboard Workstation Korg TR88 88-key Workstation Korg OASYS 88 88-Key Workstation Korg Pa500 arranger keyboard 61 keys Korg PA50 Arranger Workstation 1,600 THB Email: enquiry-musicalstore90@ hotmail.com
Home and Garden
Music
Yamaha Piano For Sale Bought year 2008 and never used / All original invoices / Paid 168,000.00 THB / Asking now for only 70,000.00 THB or Nearest Offer(Buyer must collect) Contact; Chalieo Mitault @ 0899382778 70,000 THB Email: patrickmitault@gmail.com
Refrigerator With Small Ice Box Samsung, 49 inches High, 22 inches Wide, 22inches DepthVery clean and in very good condition. Also an Toshiba Curve same size also very good condition.Call or e-mail for photo.3000 baht each 3,000 THB Phone: 0848769270 Email: leeandmoreagain@gmail.com
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Land For Sale
Appliances
Smokeless Electric Grill
ที่ดินเปล่า ตลอดทางเข้าจนถึงที่ดินที่ขายมี โครงการต่างๆ ที่ดินเนื้อที่ 5 ไร่ 95 ตาราวา ขายยกแปลง ราคา 25,000,000 บาทถ้วน ใกล้ กับถนนบายพาส 7 มีทางสาธารณะ สองทาง
Land For Sale Land area of 5 acres 95 Tarawa sale on 25,000,000 baht close to Bypass Road 7 and has two public road. โทร/Call 085 - 430 - 7659 E-mail: Phanuthat@parusfm.asia id line: phanuthat_ea 25,000,000 THB
Land For Sale
ที่ดินเปล่า ตลอดทางเข้าจนถึงที่ดินที่ขายมีโครงการ ต่างๆ ที่ดินเนื้อที่ 5 ไร่ 95 ตาราวา ขายยก แปลง ราคา 25,000,000 บาทถ้วน ใกล้กับถนน บายพาส 7 มีทางสาธารณะ สองทาง Land For
- Clean and good working condition - I used only four times - Price : 800 THB - If you have any questions please call me : 0871351920 / English 800 THB Phone: 0871351920 Email: ilgincbirbilgi@gmail.com
Cleaning Liquid In Bulk Free Shipping In Thailand
Sale Land area of 5 acres 95 Tarawa sale on 25,000,000 baht close to Bypass Road 7 and has two public road. โทร/Call 085 - 430 - 7659 E-mail: Phanuthat@parusfm.asia id line: phanuthat_ea 25,000,000 THB
Furniture
Folding Table & Chairs For Sale Pattaya
Lighting
Led Lighting Various Products Suppliers
Chang Sin LED is one of the leading LED Lighting Company in bangkok, Thailand, China, specializing and providing Complete Range of LED products with best manufacturing technology and high class quality products. We provide a large range of LED products which are aimed to meet different lighting needs to various types of customers with the best LED Lighting Solution. Our LED Lights are applicable for Offices, Homes, Shopping Malls, Showrooms, Hotels, Home Theaters, Farm Houses, Architectural Lighting and almost all areas of lighting. We can also provide LED Lighting as per customer’s requirements on selective basis. We at Jear Hoaw Energy aim in increasing customer satisfaction by providing our customers with good quality products and services. We are always working on introducing new type of LED Lights as per the market needs and keeping pace with the new inventions of LED Lights in the International markets. We at Jear Hoaw Energy are 65 THB Email: kimbery2@gmail.com
- Folding table and & 2 plastic chairs with 2 chair cushions. - Location : Pattaya / Soi Khao talo 4 - Price : 800 THB - If you have any questions please call me : 0871351920 / English 800 THB Phone: 0871351920 Email: ilgincbirbilgi@gmail.com
Free shipping within ThailandWholesale and OEM Bulk Soap Gel and all Cleaning Liquid that needed in the spa, resort and restaurants.Minimum Order 330$USD (or 10,000Thaibaht), mixable with other products inthis category; soap and cleaning liquid in bulk onlyLead time: 3-30 business days depend on order.Price are NOT included VAT.FOB price at the company in Bangkok, Thailand. Free Shipping within Thailand 1-3 business daysOrder via the message box here orFactory is guarantee by standard of Food and drug association Approval, biodegradable, Excellent quality of ingredients (Food Grade) and guarantee from department of livestock department that our products can be used in slaughterhouse. 10,000 THB Phone: 0979636626 Email: royalbeau.com@gmail.com
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Thai Herbal Compress Ball Make To Order Wholesale
Miscellaneous
Thai herbal compressed ball for face3 choices 15g 0.83$USD per a piece(25thaibaht)minimum 100 pieces each kindFree Shipping within Thailand.Aloe Vera helps moisturizer,relaxTanaka helps smooth skin and lighterOriginal helps the face skin has good blood circulationBody Herbal Compress Ball 50,100, 150 200g made from more than 15 types of herbs50g: 1$(30thaibaht)100g: 1.50$USD(45thaibaht)150g: 1.60$USD (48thaibaht)200g: 1.67$USD (50thaibaht)Make to order only, please order in advance 7 - 15 days, as we always make it fresh for best quality.Benefit: Helps reduce muscle pain, flow the blood circulation, healthy skin. USE: soak in room temperature water then steam it till it hot. Wait till it warm, don’t let it cold, then compress it on face softly. 2,500 THB Phone: 0979636626 Email: royalbeau.com@gmail.com
Cosmetics and skincare
Whitening Body Bar Soap Cheap Wholesale
Dancing Table For Party / A-go-go Dancing table suitable for parties and Agogo bar 1,000 THB Phone: 0848769270 Email: leeandmoreagain@gmail.com
whitening bar soap Cheap FREE shipping within ThailandColorful whitening body bar soap 100gMixed berried whitening body bar soap 70gRetail 30 thaibaht per a pieceWholesale price50 pieces 20 thaibaht each piece100 pieces 12 thaibaht each piece1,000 pieces 11 thaibaht each piece10,000 pieces 10 thaibaht each piece20,000 pieces 9 thaibaht each pieceIf interesting to do OEM, ODM, or wholesale, please feel free to contact us at email aboveor Line : thaiherbcare 30 THB Phone: 0979636626 Email: royalbeau.com@gmail.com
Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
Wholesale Skin Care In Bulk Or Odm Free Shipping Within Thailand Wholesale skin care in bulkStart from small amount depend on productsFacial cream, body cream, whitening/lightening/fair ness cream, moisturizer cream, gold gel and anti aging cream and more. Free Shipping within ThailandMake to Order Lead time of production: 3-14 days depend on the queue. Food and Drug Association Approval, and Certificate of Free Sale letter availableFor make to order will take minimum 7 business days for letter inquiry.Order more than our minimum, please contact us for quotation. 800 THB Phone: 0979636626 Email: royalbeau.com@gmail.com
Pets
Clothing and Fashion
Leather Jacket
I have a collection of Leather Jackets in good condition. All sizes.. Both for Men and Women. n.If interested in seeing them please contact me... 500 THB Phone: 0890160950 Email: stcathjr@gmail.com
Harley-davidson Leather Jacket
Large Dog Kennel Large metal and wood Dog Kennel for sale.Call or e-mail me for photo. South Pattaya. 2,000 THB Phone: 0848769270 Email: leeandmoreagain@gmail.com
Wanted Adult Pure Persian Male Cat Hi...I am looking for stud service for my female Persian cat...she is now in heat!I am in Pattaya...Call me or send me an email! Phone: 091-993-1200 Email: gillaplante@gmail.com Genuine Harley-Davidson Jacket, in perfect condition Size 38 men size 500 THB Phone: 0890160950 Email: stcathjr@gmail.com
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PATTAYA TRADER
PROVIDED BY WWW.PUZZLES.CA
SOLUTIONS ARE ON PAGE 75 72 72
Finished the crossword? And the Sudoku? And the quiz?
Why not play
the Pattaya Trader Game? Grab a partner, a rope and your copy of the Trader and go to YouTube to find out how to throw the best party in town! www.youtube.com/PattayaTrader
Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
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TRADER GIANT X WORD JANUARY 2016 Important Phone Numbers Banglamung Police Station Sukhumvit Rd, Banglamung Tel: 038 222 100 Banglamung Post Office Tel: 038 428 225 Chonburi Immigration Office Soi 5, Jomtien Beach Road Jomtien Post Office Soi 5, Jomtien Beach Road (to 4.30pm Mon-Fri) Tel: 038 231 944 Naklua Fire Brigade Sukhumvit Rd, Banglamung Tel: 038 221 000 Pattaya City Helpline Tel: 1337 Pattaya City Hall North Pattaya Road Tel: 038 253 100 Pattaya City Hospital Soi Buakhow Tel: 038 420 562
ACROSS
Pattaya Electricity Banglamung office Tel: 038 221 007 Hotline: 1129 (for electricity failures) Pattaya Fire Brigade Third Road, South Pattaya Tel: 038 424 678 Pattaya Health Department Tel: 038 429 374 Pattaya Memorial Hospital Tel: 038 429 422 Pattaya City Police Station cnr Beach Rd & Soi 9 Tel: 038 429 325 Pattaya Post Office Sukhumvit Rd (nr Na Jomtien) Tel: 038 429 341 Pattaya Tourist Police Pratamnak Road, nr Fitness Park Tel: 1155 Tel: 038 429 371 Pattaya Water Works Tel: 038 222 462 Sawang Boriboon Rescue Service Hotline: 1669
1. Marine crustacean (7) 4. Type of duck (7) 8. Exactly the same (9) 12. Stone pillar (7) 14. Fatuous (7) 15. Musical note (5) 16. Throw out (5) 17. One who expects the worst (9) 18. Farcical (9) 19. Hankered (7) 21. Evidence (7) 23. Reading stand (7) 25. Parts of a book (5)
DOWN
1. Theft (7) 2. Australian throwing stick (9) 3. Attend to an ailment (5) 4. Stopgap (9) 5. Bounding (7) 6. Legal excuse (5) 7. Floating aimlessly (8) 8. High-minded (10) 9. Invigorating medicine (5) 10. Part (9) 11. Affair (7) 13. Insolent (8) 15. Decoration (5) 20. Relating to the nose (5)
26. Element (8) 28. Circumspect (8) 32. Risk (6) 34. Expectations (9) 36. Church (8) 40. Performed (5) 42. Suitable for cultivation (6) 43. Mute (6) 44. Incisors (5) 46. Exhaustive (8) 47. Arduous (9) 48. Vote (6) 52. Attuned to the feelings of others (8)
53. Cellar (8) 55. Garret (5) 58. Amassed (7) 60. Equipoise (7) 62. Graceful (7) 64. Villain (9) 66. Stamina (9) 68. Italian dish (5) 69. Disagree (5) 70. Environmental condition (7) 71. Liberate (7) 72. Disbelieving (9) 73. Hereditary (7) 74. Thin (7)
22. Complied with (6) 24. Pharmacist (7) 25. Spectacular ceremony (9) 27. Out of date (8) 29. Maps (6) 30. Indifferent (9) 31. Orientation (8) 33. Slogan (5) 35. Harvest (4) 37. Paragon (5) 38. Captured (6) 39. Bill of fare (4) 41. Fell (7) 45. Confine (6)
49. Astound (5) 50. Fiendish (10) 51. Airy (8) 52. Intricate (9) 54. Bizarre (9) 56. Surpass (9) 57. Slumbering (8) 58. Sled dogs (7) 59. Lament (5) 61. Sincere (7) 63. Movie preview (7) 65. Evening (5) 67. Pulled (5) 68. Platter (5)
SOLUTIONS ARE ON PAGE 75 74
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Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016
| EXPAT LIVING
By Mario Carrera
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNER OF OUR EXPAT COMPETITION MARIO CARRERA HERE NOW IS THE WINNING ENTRY: The Consummate Sports Spectator Sitting in the North Stand watching Pattaya United play football with just over 2700 of my friends is one of the joys of being a specialist sports spectator. So many thoughts, ideas, memories and sensory pulses flow as the game waves through time. Being a specialist sports spectator is an interesting position. There are many aspects to the joys of sports. Playing the game is one part but being in the banter, the raucousness of the fan base or murkiness of administration are others. After all where would the Dolphins be without the flag-waving, drum-beating Ultras? A fan base is important to any team even if that fan base is made up of reluctant family or trialists. Al Ain SC has the Purple Army while England’s cricket team have the Barmy Army, and Liverpool their Kopites. Why do we watch sports? Several reasons are obvious; ability, age, and expense are a few. However, there are those that are not so obvious, numbers, equipment, knowledge of its existence and simple interest. Sepak Takraw is popular in Thailand but not so in Venezuela. Mention Gaelic football or hurling and many people go blank. Our high school did not play rugby for the fear of injury despite being considered a sports school. Sports supply entertainment value to viewers despite ability, age or interest. Rugby 7s started as a fun run around by two Scottish butchers. That social connect binds us at the most primal level. What better ice breaker than what team do you support? Watching the early stages of professional football in Trinidad in the late 1990’s, there was a camaraderie among the supporters. About 40 of us turned up regularly to games in the Northern part of the country. As in the Dolphin stands where the regulars attend. We knew each other by faces, not names, yet enquiries were made if absent for a period. Whether a provincial game in Ireland or a World Cup game being in the stands gives us an opportunity for socialization, support and shouting. The universality of spectatorship is more than just a concept. Being in Germany for the 2006 FIFA World Cup or 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup can be just as exciting as watching Cork versus Tippery in hurling. The language of spectatorship is similar though an understanding of the game helps when supporting. It is funny and confusing to hear American football terms being used in the global football game. From MLS commentators to fans in the stands, the audio, is shocking. Watching sports television is probably the best way to learn a language. Good commentators are skilled users of the language with in-depth knowledge of the game. Tommy Smyth is a classic old school pro that entertains us, though some might go for John Motson. We all have our favorites, though after FIFA Brazil 2014 some men are considering Korean (Jang Ye-won). Some sports are difficult for spectators such as golf but being in the clubhouse afterwards listening to the stories of drives, slices and spectacular putts can deliver more adult entertainment than a 1980’s Playboy. I have tried playing golf and know why the term handicap exists ! Women’s sports are sometimes more interesting, entertaining and intense than the men’s game. Two instances highlight the phenomenon. Watching a women’s final Gaelic match in Bahrain 2009 showed me and a few hundred others how intense and competitive women can be. The men’s finalists were heard to say that they would be afraid to play the winning women’s team. FIFA Women’s World Cup 2011 was more entertaining than the men’s version. Sitting in a bar in Muscat, there were two screens with football on. Most started off watching the South American championship but by the end of the game most men
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were watching Japan versus Germany women’s game - one of the best games of football ever! Though silently supporting Sepp’s suggestion, women’s sports still earns their support. There are some conflicting situations, especially among expatriates or mixed couples. Thailand versus Brazil in volleyball, the wife is Thai and we are in Thailand. Careful negotiations are required. Surprises occur such as my first game supporting the Dolphins. The only other Trinidadian at the game scored two goals against Pattaya United when a masked cheer occurred. When players change teams some supporters do serious soul searching, even worse when they cross to the dark side. Rangers to Celtic, Everton to Liverpool, Mets to Yankees, evoke horror, confusion, and counseling for the diehards. “The team is always bigger than the player but…..” is the collective groan. Amateur sports can offer as much enjoyment as professional sports without the cost. Then what is amateurism? Athletics is supposed to be amateur, but many athletes are paid to “appear” or “participate” in events not race. One USA female sprinter likens international racing agents to pimps. “Go out there and get me my money,” may be something a Mama San says but also something athletes may relate too. Money in sports can (and have) produced a few doctoral dissertations. FIFA Scandals, 2005-2015 is my next doctorate topic. Some sports that are called sports are of a questionable nature. Sports fishing comes to mind though the editing for TV makes a gallant attempt at justification. Synchronized swimming is, to me, an art just as contemporary dance. As a sport question mark appears. Competitive cheerleading falls into the same category, but let the people decide. After all
a sport is defined as: using physical exertion and skill by an individual or group to compete against other individuals or groups, for entertainment. Then there are the non-sports that should be sports and we are not talking about discount shopping. . Bar hopping is a common one in Pattaya. Making it from one end of Walking Street to the other in a single night visiting each bar on one side of the road and having a beer is analogous to a marathon where the ultra-marathoners make it back up the next side. I have not been to an archery or dressage competition thus do not know about these. However with the array of events in Pattaya, they are on the bucket list. You may challenge watching F1 from my rooftop in Abu Dhabi but think about watching the ball in the last row at Eden Garden. So many sports events and only one me. Being a sports spectator is more than being an armchair coach. Most events require being there live or at least in a gathering. Where two or three are gathered, let there be a game on. It is about learning (so that is what an offside is); sharing (you get the tickets I get the drinks); experiencing something new (what is that?); challenging oneself (how much more of this horror); control (do not go on the pitch as that Indonesian football fan); socializing (love, there is a game tonight, gotta’ go), and all the things that are recommended for a long healthy life. Be proud of being a consummate sports spectator.
AND CONGRATULATIONS TO RUNNER UP CHRIS MUIRHEAD
SOLUTIONS
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By Neil Hutchison
Happy New Year
irst and foremost, I would like to wish a Happy New Year to all Pattaya Trader readers. Let’s hope 2016 is a brighter, more prosperous and happier year than its predecessors. New Year’s Day offers the perfect opportunity to start breaking all those New Year’s resolutions foolishly made less than 24 hours earlier. I began the day at the wee small hour of one o’clock in the afternoon, with a hangover and in a strange person’s house. That got rid of three resolutions without even trying. Then my standard twocourse breakfast of a cup of coffee and a cigarette sealed the deal. How useless is it to make ourselves promises we have no chance in hell of ever keeping? By 5 o’clock, with my hangover on the way down and my caffeine-induced cerebral activity on the way up, it was time for some hair of the dog and stimulating conversation. The evening found me at one of my local bars talking with friends over a beer about my resolve to reduce my alcohol consumption and therefore my entertainment budget to a manageable level. One problem I have with implementing such a policy of restraint is the lack of a successful precedent. Although quite good at geography, for most of my life I have been searching for a place called “Moderation” because, once I find it, I am going to move there. It seems every bad habit I have picked up over the years, especially the ones I enjoy, are fine as long as they are done “in Moderation”. People keep telling me that, but they never actually divulge where the bloody place is. One of my mates agreed, saying he too was on the Quixotic quest for “Moderation” following a recent incident. It seems he had started drinking a few hours earlier than usual and was well on the way to “Intoxication”, a place we both know very well, when he decided to catch a motorcycle taxi home. Unfortunately, the directions he gave the driver were unclear and he was dropped off in a soi nowhere near his home. Confused and tired, he knew the last thing he needed was more to drink. Deciding to collect his thoughts, he sat on the gutter where, resting his head against a post, he promptly fell asleep. Some hours later he was awakened by a girl from one of the nearby beer bars shaking his shoulder and asking if he was alright. As his brain stumbled into consciousness, she told him she would have woken him earlier had it not been for his “friend” taking care of him. Sudden panic gripped him as he realized he did not have any friends. Things got worse when he imagined this “friend” was possibly some enterprising thief who snatched the opportunity presented by a drunk, sleeping tourist to relieve him of his money. He felt his pocket and was surprised to find what remained of his money was all there. “What friend?” he asked the girl. She laughed and pointed to a large, brown dog hovering
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nearby and explained that within a minute of him falling unconscious the dog had sauntered over and sat firmly by his side. If anyone got too close to him, the dog growled at them and only left his side a few seconds after he began to wake up. That image amused him and he now understood why his money had remained safe. That dog had served him well and he made a note to treat his guardian to a juicy piece of steak. Another mate said he too was in search of “Moderation” after an unnerving experience due to the evil drink. The last thing he remembered was being in South Pattaya at around 8:00pm. He awoke at 5:00am to find himself in a very comfortable bed in a luxurious hotel suite. Totally disoriented, he was further surprised to find a Thai lady asleep beside him. Without waking his companion, he grappled on the floor for his clothing and checked his pockets for money. As far as he could calculate, he should have had around 600 baht left and it was all there. Deciding discretion was the better part of valour, he dressed quickly and slipped out the door without waking the lady. Down the elevator and into the foyer he discovered he was in one of Pattaya’s most up-market hotels. Panic set in as he realized his 600 baht would not cover the ordinary room rate let alone the suite he had occupied. His first impulse was to flee the scene, but he was not that sort of chap. He bit the bullet and approached the lone receptionist. Asking for his bill, he mentally rehearsed his plea to be allowed to go to an ATM for funds. The clerk smiled and presented him with a bill for 180 baht. He checked it closely to see if someone had left off a couple of zeros and found it was simply for two drinks at the bar; one a beer and the other a mixer. He nervously asked the receptionist if that was his total bill and she confirmed it was all he owed. He handed over 200 baht, told her to keep the change and made a hasty retreat onto the street. He reasoned the room must have belonged to the lady he found in bed beside him. Whether he picked her up or she picked him up, he did not remember. Whether they had been intimate or not was uncertain. All that was clear was they had consumed a drink in the bar before retiring to her room. The rest will forever remain a mystery. Alas, my friends and I concluded Pattaya was a town nowhere near “Moderation” and it is useless to make yourself promises here when you have little chance of keeping them. For me, giving up unhealthy food, taking regular exercise and all but cutting out alcohol will have to wait until next year. Something to look forward to.
Issue 183 | JANUARY 2016