Vol 12 issue 14 1 15 april 2013

L1 - L16

Volume 12, Issue 14

1 - 15 April 2013

30 BAHT

No-Booze & Car zones in Pattaya for Songkran?

Pattaya has been directed to establish alcohol free zones for Songkran.

I

n an effort to reduce injuries, accidents and crime, the Thai national police have directed Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket and other tourist-orientated provinces and cities throughout the country to create zones free of both booze and vehicles throughout the Songkran festival, officially April 13 to 15 for most areas of Thailand.

No details were available at press time related to which areas of Pattaya will be affected, nor were local authorities yet aware of the exact dates and times that restrictions would be imposed.

In Pattaya, Beach Road and Second Road are traditionally the scene of the most widespread mayhem and suffer

the highest volume of water-throwing antics during the city’s unique weeklong celebration.

In the past it has been suggested that water revelers be directed to The Buddha Park Hill and outer Jomtien, but nothing ever came of these proposals.

Continued on page 4

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News Another Pattaya casino closed down Illegal entertainment in the resort took another nosedive after police raided a casino behind a restaurant in Soi Siam Country Club and arrested 39 dice and card players. Prayut Charoenkarn, aged 39, admitted he was the owner of the establishment and attracted customers by word of mouth since it was impossible to advertize in the normal way. Various paraphernalia were taken away as evidence including many packs of cards and a roulette wheel. Police said they had received complaints about the casino’s existence and had sent in an undercover agent to check out the matter.

Student drug dealer caught in sting Concerned about college of technology students involved in selling prohibited substances, police used an undercover agent to arrange to meet 25 year old Thongchai Wiansamut outside a petrol station in Banglamung. Regular police then seized the suspect who took police to his home where they found 200 gms of the ice drug in six sealed plastic bags.

Thongchai admitted he had bought the drugs from Not Phansak and sold them at a modest profit in order to pay for his tuition fees. However, he had no idea how to find Not as the two men had only ever met in an unlit street. Judicial proceedings are underway and an initial application for bail has been rejected.

Underage teens again found in clubs Officers from the Department of Special Investigation, the Bangkok-based plain-clothe police elite which was set up to investigate serious crime, roamed recently in South Pattaya after 2.00 a.m. to check whether nightclubs and bars had underage patrons. The investigators concentrated on the Bali Hai and Walking Street area and found 60 persons under the legal age of 20 to be customers in good-time establishments. Lights were

switched on in several establishments as officers combed the seats, tables and alcoves looking for evidence of tarnished youth. The parents of the naughty youngsters were contacted by police on their mobiles with requests to come and collect their ribald offspring. The raids followed other recent investigations into allegations that some clubs were hiring underage staff, but none were found on this occasion.

Dead guard hidden in bushes An inebriated senior security guard hit on a panic plan after bludgeoning to death one of his staff. According to witnesses, Muek Inmarong, 50, was behaving in a drunken fashion as he checked his staff during a routine patrol in south Pattaya. When he came across 45 year old Somchai Kumphusan, who was sleeping on duty, there was a fracas and the younger man was

struck by a hard object which caused a huge loss of blood. A few minutes later, Muek returned to the scene with an unknown woman to check if the man was dead.

Because it was obvious he was, Muek then requested the assistance of other security guards to hide the body in bushes behind a large tree. Police are currently following up on this tragic incident.

Stepbrothers fight to the death A large crowd gathered at Soi 12, South Pattaya, after learning that a man had been stabbed to death.

A witness told police that the deceased, 25-year-old Amphol Pansawang, had been involved in a noisy quarrel with his stepbrother Jo earlier in the day, which was reportedly common for the two. On the day in question they fought in a garage and when Amphol picked up a baseball bat to use as a weapon, his stepbrother produced a knife and allegedly stabbed his opponent., Jo promptly fled the scene and later gave himself up to police. He was charged with murder. Several witnesses opined to police that alcohol had likely caused several of the fights for which the duo were renowned.

Huge debts lead to suicide Police rushed to an apartment near the Thepprasit Road boxing stadium after receiving reports that a man had been found with a hole in his face. Songla Ninkampheng, aged 66, was discovered in a very bloody state with an 11mm handgun lying

nearby. There was a suicide letter explaining that impossible debts made it imperative that he leave this mortal coil even though he realized the solution would come as a dreadful shock to his relatives and friends.

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News Dusit Thani names Event and Convention director Yuvarat Traisutrampornd has been appointed director of Event and Convention Management of Dusit Thani Pattaya. She will manage the department, train staff, and supervise the Catering and Convention Services. Yuvarat had worked for ShangriLa Hotel Bangkok and The Peninsula Bangkok, where she acquired a strong background in banqueting and events management.

Sunee Vaewmanee named public relations manager of A-One Hotel Sunee Vaewmanee has been named public relations manager of A-One The Royal Cruise Hotel Pattaya, according to Somchai Ratanaopath, managing director.

Sunee was graduated with a Masters in Mass Communication from Chulalongkorn University. She is former PR manager at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya.

Cross my palm with silver A press conference was held at the Amari Orchid Pattaya to publicize the upcoming Fortune Teller Festival to be held at Central Festival Pattaya Beach next month. There will be 10 astrologers in attendance with specialisms in astrology, palm reading, tarot cards, oracle cards and fortune signatures. Prices start at 500 baht for a Thai reading of 20 minutes, but a reading in English will cost double. There is an extra charge too if you insist on having the services of the president of the institute of fortune tellers.

A similar event at Central Center Pattaya last year was extremely popular. Proceeds this year will be divided amongst several worthy charities campaigning for better school facilities.

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News Prime Minister issues tourist caution Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has indicated that she feels Thailand should concentrate on quality and high-spending tourists rather than counting raw numbers for their own sake. This year Thailand is expecting to welcome 24 million visitors from overseas, but many will be budget travellers who spend an average of 3,000 baht a day. Yingluck would like the average spend increased to 4,000 baht and would like the Thai tourist authority to

concentrate in its marketing on wealthy tourists and those seeking a privileged niche such as medical care or sports. The prime minister is adding her voice to those in the past who have expressed concern about the negative impact on the environment of unrestricted mass tourism, fearing that the numbers game will cause Thailand to frighten away the really high spenders towards other Asean rivals such as sophisticated Singapore or relatively unspoiled Vietnam.

Gay marriage not quite on the cards The Thai parliament is set in the next session to consider a bill offering civil partnerships to gays after public hearings are finalized next month.

The bill is expected to offer gays and transgender persons in same sex relationships the same rights as heterosexuals as regards property, possessions and inheritance. But Thailand is not yet ready to endorse full gay marriage or

to allow adoption. The bill, in fact, is quite likely to pass in both Houses after leading politicians from Pheu Thai and the Democrats spoke positively about gay rights in the last general election and in the recent Bangkok governor elections. If passed, the act would be the first in any Asian country to endorse civil partnerships for single sex unions.

No-Booze & Car zones in Pattaya for Songkran?

Continued from page 1

In Bangkok, water-throwing will principally be on Saturday April 13, but Pattaya celebrates from April 13 until April 19—the Friday when the city erupts in a massive soaking.

The dry zones in Bangkok will be Khao San, Rama Nine and Silom.

Ruangsak Jaritek, deputy national

police chief, suggested that people will be allowed access to the restricted areas on foot only. Cars and motorbikes will be strictly prohibited, and anyone caught driving while drunk will be subject to six months jail time. Furthermore, police will be out in greater force to help ensure compliance. To help prevent traf-

CBRE Thailand wins big at Asia Pacific Property Awards CBRE Thailand took top-three rankings in 25 categories across 13 countries in the Asia Pacific Property Awards. In the event, part of the International Property Awards, the company exceeded in all real estate categories in nearly every major market across the region from New Zealand to China.

“We are proud to build on our success in last year’s awards with Malaysia and Korea joining the ranks of CBRE winners, said Rob Blain, chairman and chief executive officer, Asia Pacific for CBRE.

David Simister, chairman of CBRE Thailand, added, “For CBRE Thailand, this takes our running total of International Property Awards up to 36…including past wins such as World’s Best Commercial Real Estate Website in 2009, Asia Pacific Best Real Estate Agency in 2012, and Best Property Consultancy in Thailand in 2011 and 2012.”

Stuart Shield, president of the International Property Awards, said, “The entries that we receive from the Asia Pacific region become more impressive year after year. The winning companies

Debt drove woman to suicide A distressed woman’s nephew found her body hanging by an electric cord on a bedroom door. Athiporn Udomchat, 53, left a suicide note in which she stated that overwhelming money problems had led her to take her own life. She added in the note that she did not

want to be a burden to her family and wished her body to be donated to medical science to avoid cremation costs.

The nephew said he called at the house to see his aunt but could not find her downstairs.

He went upstairs and made the discovery.

have outshone their peers and proven exceptional levels of professionalism and competence in their field.”

The Asia Pacific Property Awards was founded 19 years ago to distinguish excellence in the property industry worldwide and to promote an international standard. Later this year, the highest scoring winners from the Asia Pacific Property Awards will compete against other winning companies from Europe, Africa, the Americas and Arabia to find the ultimate ‘World’s Best’ in each category.

Gamblers arrested on Pratumnak Hill Construction workers of the Power Lai Company were disturbed in an illegal activity after police raided their labour camp.

A game of high-low was in progress and Lampueng Tiamlert, 37, confessed she was the ringleader. Police suspect that the group are illegal aliens but are awaiting confirmation from the Immigration Bureau to continue with the case. Several gang members said they were paid very low wages and saw gambling as a way of raising their standard of living.

Jealousy leads to nasty stabbing A sixteen year old was beaten and stabbed near Soi 6, Pattaya Beach Road, after a drinking party with his uncle and three young women who elected to join them. The uncle Pichai Krasesom told police that neither he nor his nephew knew the young women but raised no objection when they sat down. Suddenly, two men appeared out of the darkness and attacked the younger man asking “Why did you swear at us yesterday?” Police arrived at the scene after being summoned by a motorbike taxi boy and said it was likely that the two attacking strangers were jealous that the women – perhaps their girlfriends – were drinking with other young men. Officers appealed for witnesses to give a description of the knife-wielding guys as they have no leads at the moment as to identity.

fic accidents, police are setting up some 12,000 checkpoints nationwide.

Officers on duty at the city police station claimed not to know any details at this point, but it seems that banning all motorbikes, cars, buses and trucks would be a challenging—if not impossible--effort.

Nasty accident Sri Lankan wannabe follows marital row workers arrested Prapha Janon, 35, was rushed to hospital after piercing her leg on a spiked steel fence outside her apartment in Central Pattaya Road. The apartment manager said he was sleeping in the caretaker’s room when he heard screams of agony coming from the roof of a nearby building. It transpired that Prapha had had a serious argument with her husband and was trying to escape

through an upstairs window when she made a wrong move.

Her husband, Pongsak, tried to comfort his wife as a rescue team brought a hydraulic cutter to cut the steel fence before administering first aid. The woman was taken to Banglamung hospital for emergency treatment. Neighbors said the couple rowed frequently with Prapha often threatening to leave her husband.

Chonburi Immigration has arrested 11 Sri Lankan males after reports that they were hiding in a small room in an apartment house on Third Road, Pattaya. They all had valid visas to enter Thailand, but questioning by officers revealed that they were voluntarily-trafficked workers who were waiting for instructions to go on to a third country where they

were willing to work for very low wages. They are believed to have entered Thailand through Laem Chabang port and were waiting for instructions to leave by the same point when the traffickers had a work assignment for them. Many Sri Lankans are thought to be working illegally in Southeast Asia as fishermen or manual workers on construction sites.

More privileges for Russians Laos has followed Thailand in making Russian visitors a privileged visa category. In Thailand, Russians are allowed 30 visa-less days on arrival whether they arrive by air or cross at a land border.

Now Laos has announced that arriving Russians will not need a visa or pay a

fee. Visitors to Laos are expected to pay between US$25 and US$45 depending on nationality, and the exemption now granted to Russians is thought to be related to the large Russian investment in Laos and to encourage more Russians to visit the country as tourists. An immi-

gration source said that more ASEAN countries are likely to follow suit in granting extra privileges to Russian nationals, especially as research showed they spend on average more money abroad than visitors from western Europe or America.

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News

Stronger baht not affecting real estate Strengthening of the Thai baht in recent weeks has not had any major impact on real estate transactions to-date, according to observations by Jones Lang LaSalle, the professional services firm that specializes in real estate.

The baht has climbed to its strongest level since the Thai currency was floated in mid 1997 when the Asian financial crisis erupted. While the stronger baht has pushed Thai property prices up in US dollar terms, Jones Lang LaSalle says there nevertheless are no signs that property sales have been or will be influenced by the rising baht.

“As the baht currency is strengthening, a concern over the possible impact on real estate is growing, particularly in sectors that rely on demand from foreign buyers such as Bangkok high-end condominiums and resort properties in key holiday destinations,” said Suphin Mechuchep, managing director of Jones Lang LaSalle.

However, she added “we have not seen any effect from the strong baht on Thai real estate so far. In fact, we do not expect the present baht strength to have any significant impact on most property sectors across the country, unless the Thai currency strengthens at a much faster

pace, which is unlikely to be the case according to economists.”

Baht not impacting Thai and Asian buyers Suphin explained that most of the property sectors in Thailand “rely mainly on domestic demand at present.

In addition, while demand of buyers from Americas and the Eurozone has subsided significantly due to financial turbulences in the two regions, the majority of foreign demand for Thai real estate over the past recent years has been from Asian countries, most of which have also seen stronger local currencies against the US dollar or the Euro,” Based on year-to-date enquiries Jones Lang LaSalle has received, interest of foreign buyers in Thai properties including condominiums in Bangkok and resort condominiums and villas in key holiday destinations has remained stable. The firm has also received continued enquiries from overseas companies looking to acquire manu-

facturing/logistics facilities in Thailand.

“Despite the stronger currency, Thailand remains one of the cheapest real estate markets in Asia Pacific. This is one of the key factors that have kept the country’s real estate markets competitive,” said Suphin.

Thais encouraged to buy overseas properties She reflects that in the present environment, Thai corporations and individuals may take advantage of the baht’s strength to acquire overseas properties.

Kingdom Property sells The Suites Tower at Southpoint

Kingdom Property has sold The Suites Tower--the twintower Southpoint Pattaya project--to an unnamed Thai investor. The local buyer plans to develop the 224-unit building into internationallymanaged serviced residences.

The purchase represents approximately 30 percent of the saleable area of the 672 condominium project, ac-

cording to Kingdom Property, which says it has amassed a project pipeline valued at 10 billion baht in Pattaya.

The developer claims that interest in Southpoint “has been strong since its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval in November last year” and ahead of the opening of its sales show room in April. Buyers are

mostly from Thailand, Japan, China and Russia.

“Pattaya has very strong fundamentals as a destination offering an attractive investment proposition, superb access and infrastructure as well as an enviable lifestyle with sailing, golf, waterparks, shopping and dining as key draw cards,” said Nigel Cornick, Kingdom Property CEO.

“There are a number of investment opportunities available in the world’s well-established real estate markets such as gateway cities in the US and London, from individual residential units through to residential investment blocs, commercial buildings and hotels.

With the baht strengthening and capital values of real estate assets in these markets remaining attractive, it may be a good time for ultra-high net worth Thai individuals and corporates to consider these investment opportunities and act quickly,” said the Jones Lang LaSalle managing director.

“We are delighted with this transaction as it is not only a good sale for us, but it will add greater value to those seeking units in The Residences Tower - or those who have already made a purchase - and further compliment the Pratumnak area where we are located.”

Southpoint Pattaya is on Pratumnak Hill, a short distance south of Bali Hai. It offers extensive sea views and is walking distance of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club. The 2.5 billion-baht development is on a four rai freehold plot and will be completed in 2015.

Unit sizes range from studios of 30sqm to two-bedroom units of 61 and 97sqm. Prices range from 70,000 baht to 120,000 baht per square metre.

Features include a dedicated sky deck in each tower with an infinity edge lap pool and fitness center along with a landscaped family zone with a children’s pool and playground.

For Southpoint Pattaya sales visit www.southpointpattaya.com or call 038 416 441.

Foreign tourist police assistants needed The Tourist Police are a special division of the Royal Thai Police. The FTPA assist with carrying out the functions of the Tourist Police including assistance to tourists and local community members, helping to resolve misunderstandings and disputes, offering general advice to tourists and providing services for international events from time to time. We operate primarily in the Walking Street/Beach Road entertainment area, nightly from 9.00 pm to 2.30 am.

We are currently inviting qualified male and female foreigners living in Pattaya to join the group.

It’s important for members to have a friendly and relaxed attitude, to enjoy helping others and to be able to spare one or more evenings a week. A probationary period, including initial training, is part of the program.

Our initial requirements are: • You live in Pattaya most of the time • You have a current and renewable one year visa • You have language skills or relevant backgroud experience • You have a verifiable clean police record in your home country and Thailand Applicants should send a short email telling us about yourself to ftpapattaya@gmail.com We will send you an application form and try to answer any questions you have. Feel free to visit us on Walking Street any night and don’t hesitate to see us if you need any assistance.

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News

Compulsory insurance for expats and tourists?

The government is considering forcing foreigners to buy health insurance before traveling to Thailand.

Public health minister Pradit Sinthawanarong said that 2.5 million foreigners out of a total of 22 million visitors appeared at Thai hospitals last year, but a significant minority were unable to pay which resulted in a financial burden for local hospitals. He explained that the

main problems concerned foreigners hospitalized in emergencies, especially traffic accidents and heart attacks, and the costs associated with taking care of corpses, particularly autopsies and cold storage.

The situation is particularly acute in tourist-dominated resorts.

The state-run Banglamung Hospital, near Pattaya, estimated that unpaid bills from foreigners amounted to

2 million baht in 2012. The government Vachira Phuket Hospital claims that free treatment for foreigners is costing them 3 million baht a year. Total costs nationwide are in the region of 70 million baht annually.

The Association of Thai Travel Agents’ president, Sisivachr Cheewarattanporn, noted that most foreigners visiting the country in

a group or through travel agencies generally have insurance, but many stand-alone tourists and expats do not. In particular, older expats on one year visas are finding that the cost of medical insurance is rising dramatically. Some may not be able to obtain medical insurance at all because of pre-existing conditions or gigantic exclusion clauses.

A Pattaya insurance agent told Pattaya Today, “Our advice to expats is to obtain cover on arrival, and certainly below the age of 60. The private hospitals won’t show much interest without valid insurance or a sizeable cash deposit by friends or relatives. This throws the burden on the government sector hospitals which also are not in the business of free medical care for aliens.”

Foreign embassies these days usually wash their hands of hospital bills. The British embassy, for example, will contact friends and relatives but will not pay for any medical treatment under any circumstances.

This even applies to cremation costs, which again throws the problem to the local authorities or to voluntary organizations such as the Sawangboriboon Foundation.

The problem is what to do about this state of affairs. In the short term, Thai authorities will resort to exhorting overseas visitors to buy

travel or health insurance. But a combination of rising numbers of tourists and the ageing profile of the Thai population means that a regulatory framework is in the offing.

One idea is to collect hospital fees through embassies, but they are likely to decline any participation fearing with great justification they will be out of pocket. Another proposal is to introduce a “health” tax on airfares or hotel accommodation, but the complexities of implementing such a scheme are truly awesome.

As regards older expats on one year visas, the most likely outcome is that applications will need to be accompanied by valid medical insurance or proof of a greater income or cash deposits than is currently required (800,000 baht for a retiree visa and 400,000 for a farang with a Thai spouse).

A spokesperson for the Immigration Bureau said there were no imminent financial changes to the one-year visa rules, but the matter is under review. In the 1990s, he explained, there was a requirement to provide a certificate of good health before a long-stay visa was granted.

“The rule was dropped because the letters were often issued after a very cursory medical examination or no examination at all.”

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News Centara Udon Thani welcomes Prachuab Chaiyasan

Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard event

Chaiphun Thongsutham (right), general manager of Centara Hotel & Convention Centre Udon Thani, welcomes Prachuab Chaiyasan (left), Thailand’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs and president of Ramkhamhaeng University Council. Prachuab was at the Centara to preside over a seminar.

New spectacles shop opened

Thanawan Chaiwatana (left), managing director, Magnolia Finest Corporation Ltd., developer of Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard, together with Chanintr Sirisant (right), CEO of Chanintr Living Company Limited, and Phol Tanthasathean (middle), guest chef for the occasion, at Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard sales gallery. The luxury condominium development hosted an event that featured Land Rovers, culinary samples, and business class flights to and from New York for those who bought condos.

Jamie Miller appointed cochair, AmCham Travel & Tourism Committee

Monks were invited to give blessings to the latest eyewear shop Good Glasses which recently opened in Soi Nern Plabwan, Nongprue. The owner, Wacharaphong Thepnarong, said that there were many styles of glasses to suit varying personalities.

Nongprue police station upgraded Jamie Miller, Rembrandt’s hotel manager, has been appointed co-chair of the Travel & Tourism Committee of The American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand (Amcham). The appointment signals a renewed focus on the travel and tourism industry to enhance Thailand’s overall tourist and travel experience by helping it maintain a competitive advantage relative to neighboring destinations.

The regional police commander of region two formally opened Nongprue police station at a ceremony to mark its establishment as a full police station rather than an ancillary unit of Banglamung police author-

ity. The commander, Police Colonel Somnuek Changate, said that the process had taken two years but that now Nongprue was ready to assume full status. There are 62 officers on roll as well as Thai and foreign vol-

unteers who are present to serve the general public with information, advice and assistance. Nongprue police station is located at the far end of Soi Nern Plabwan, behind the sports stadium.

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News Thonglor presented pet car seminar

ROMAN ORGIES The mammoth Coliseum-type building on Thepprasit Road is coming on apace and should be ready for thousands of eager tourist bottoms by June. Contrary to rumor it isn’t another McDonalds or a huge car park or the new immigration office, but a replica (more or less) of the original Coliseum in Rome. But rather than throwing Christians to the lions, it will provide extravaganza shows to rival Alangkarn, Tiffany and Alcazar.

GREG’S OPENING HOURS

The popular British-style eatery in Drinking Street, north Pattaya, now has revised hours. Now open seven days a week from 4 p.m. until very late (formerly was closed on Mondays), but on Sundays the restaurant will now open at noon. This is because many fans of Greg’s roast dinners – chicken or beef or lamb – have campaigned for an earlier Sabbath start, although the full menu is also available.

JOINT VISA BLUES

Not many tourists seem interested in the new Cambodian- Thai joint visa available at their embassies and consulates worldwide. The new visa allows you one visit (no re-entry) of up to 60 days to each country.

But you have to pay 1,000 baht to obtain it and then pay a separate fee at the border or airport. Flagged as a kind of European-style Schengen visa, it is very far from being that. One problem is that many visitors to Thailand don’t pay any fee at all for a stay of one month.

NEW CHINESE RESTAURANT

The Chow Box, Thappraya Road opposite Mata Hari, bills itself as offering tempting British-style Chinese food. The emphasis is on British-style. We tried it, it’s OK and we’ll return. But a couple of things need sorting. The portions are quite modest in size and some of the dishes taste a tad too sweet. The nearest alternative is China Garden in Soi Lengkee which has been open much longer and has found its market.

COLLAR YOUR PETS

If you own a cat or dog, best to ensure he or she has a collar. City Hall officers do occasionally do sweeps of street animals – there was one recently in Soi Post Office – and take away any they can lay hands on. If a pet has a collar, there is much less chance it will be carried off.

Where all these captured animals go is not entirely clear, so there may be a problem tracking your four-footed friend later.

CLOSING YOUR COMPANY

A reader asks how much it costs to close a shell company which has not been trading but is simply a framework to own a villa or house, usually on a 30 year leaseback. The answer is that it costs a lot more than to start one. To begin with, you have a tax bill as technically the company is selling the residence, not to mention various other legal fees and assuming your annual audit is up to date. In short, you won’t have much change out of 100,000 baht according to a contact at the Land Office.

FAKE BANK NOTES

There’s a worrying story running at the moment on Andrew Drummond’s Bangkok-based website about someone in all innocence tendering a fake British 50 pound note at a Thai foreign exchange bureau. The consequences have been truly awesome. Apparently British banks are now admitting that occasionally fake notes are given out because forgeries these days can be very difficult to detect! More to the point, they are stressing that they are not legally responsible for any consequences or for replacing bad notes for good.

SONGKRAN IS COMING

Over the years there have been many promises – that throwing water would be restricted to certain days or times or that ice water would be banned or that large water guns would be confiscated.

Nothing of constructive consequence has happened as a result – the horror will continue unabated. For those not in the know the most abominable day in Pattaya will be Friday 19 April (Naklua the day before), but lunacy will likely rain down constantly from Saturday April 13.

The editor and management of Pattaya Today don’t necessarily share the views expressed in this column

Thonglor Pet Hospital’s veterinary team described the proper care for domestic cats and dogs for the benefit of pet owners and wannabe pet owners. The program at Fashion Island Mall in Bangkok was led by Dr. Piyawan Phurahong, DVM, the resident doctor at Thonglor Pet Hospital. He and his team remained on hand to answer a barrage of questions from the assembled throng which included many children.

Centara’s first Sri Lanka resort prepares to open Michel Horn (far left), vice president for operations at Centara Hotels & Resorts, and Ranga Dias (second from left), managing director, Sun Tan Beach Resorts (Pvt) Ltd, unveil the signage of Centara Passikudah Resort & Spa Sri Lanka, which will have its soft opening on April 1. Also seen in the photo are Alexandre Glauser (second from right), area general manager, and Teddy Roland (far right), hotel manager of the new resort. Centara Passikudah Resort & Spa Sri Lanka, on Passikudah Bay, offers facilities appealing to couples, families and those longing for active holidays.

New Mediterranean restaurant in Jomtien Mukayil Aygu, a chef for 35 years, has opened his new restaurant in Jomtien Soi 8, specializing in delicious pizzas and other Mediterranean recipes, all prepared using the freshest ingredients.

Pattaya Today's lifestyle, travel and culture guide

Vol. 01 No. 07 | April 1-15 2013

L iv I N G

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stY L e

New Citroen DS3 So Chic

Pattaya Sea De Vine Wine Club Sand Sun

automotive L15

escapades L6

Delightful brunch at Cape Dara The Radius restaurant at the luxurious Cape Dra Resort, North Pattaya, offers a 300-plus delicious item menu for the spectacular Sunday brunch held weekly from 11.30 am to 3.00 pm. The eat-as-much-as-you-like choices include a large selection of seafood, a succulent grill and carving station, dimsum, sashimi, magnificent dessert trolley and healthy vegetarian options and fresh juices. The price is 1,500 baht ++ per person (free-flow soft drinks) or 2,000 baht ++(free-flow red and white wine). Children under 12 go half-price and those under 6 are free if accompanied by their parents. Phone 038 933 888 for reservations or refer to www.capedarapattaya.com

gourmet corner L10

L2

events

Vol. 01 No. 07 | April 1-15 2013

Steve Jobs figure at Madame Tussauds Bangkok

eve n t s cal en d ar Dok Khun Siang Khaen Songkran Festival

At Madame Tussauds Bangkok for the unveiling of the wax figure of the late Steve Jobs (Apple founder) were Noppadon Prapimpunt (second right), head of Bangkok Cluster, Merlin Entertainments Group, C – Chatpawee Trichachawanwong (second left) or ‘IT Princess’, the renowned IT TV programme host, Thee Wanichnunthatada (left), and Fan Pun Tae – Steve Jobs ‘Max Sunart’ (right).

The figure will be displayed until June 15 at the Siam Discovery venue.

Seven Seas blessing ceremony

Date: April 5 – 15, 2013 Venue: Khon Kaen As part of the traditional Songkran Thai New Year merit-making ceremonies in Khon Kaen province, the locals perform bathing rituals to pay homage to revered Buddha images and shrines, present merit-making offerings to monks and pay respect to elders by pouring lustral water over their hands in a bathing ritual.

The rest of the Grand Songkran holidays are filled with festive fun with hours of friendly water-splashing, Miss Songkran beauty pageants and a variety of uptempo traditional Northeastern folk entertainment.

Universal Thailand, developers of Seven Seas Condo Resort Jomtien, marked the start of construction with a blessing ceremony and lunch at the Seven Seas showroom on Soi Chaiyapruk, Jomtien.

More than 500 units have been sold to both locals and expats.

Activities: The activities highlights include giving food offerings ceremony, Songkran procession with many beautiful flora cards, Miss Dok Khun Siang Khaen contest, stalls offering local products and food, paying respect to elders by making ritual offerings, and the famous “Human Wave” activity on Khao Nieo road.

Phra Padeang Songkran Festival: In front of the Phra Padaeng District office, Samut Prakan Province For more information please contact: TAT Bangkok Office Tel. +66 2250 5500 ext 3485-9 Website: www.songkran.net

A Royal Cliff Opera Evening Date: April 6, 2013 Venue: Grand Hotel’s Head of State Chamber, Royal Cliff Hotel Time: 6:30 p.m.

Activities: The Royal Cliff Hotels Group proudly presents world-renowned Tenor Kim Jun Man and friends in the Grand Hotel’s Head of State Chamber. Kim Jun Man made his professional debut at the age of 30 at Roma Theatre.

He has performed in a variety of productions around the world including Rome, Switzerland and in Vienna. He has performed more than 1,200 galas and solo concerts in Europe, Australia, Asia and the U.S.A. His repertoire includes several arias and over 1000 Italian Canzone, Spanish compositions, Latin American tunes as well as pop and jazz.

St Patrick’s Pattaya parade held Deputy mayor Ronakit Ekasingh formerly launched the annual St Patrick’s Day Parade held annually on March 17, the reputed anniversary of the death of Ireland’s patron saint. There was a glittering city centre parade starting at the Alcazar cabaret theatre with hundreds of participants all wearing green, the color associated with the Emerald Isle. Fundraising was in favour of the Father Ray Foundation and many Irish businesses in the city put on free drinks and food in a massive show of collaboration.

For more information please contact: Telephone: (038) 250 421 E-mail: gro-grand@royalcliff.com Website: www.royalcliff.com

Nop Phra Len Phleng Festival Date: March 26 – April 04, 2013 Venue: Kamphaeng Phet The Nop Phra Len Phleng Fair is held during the celebrations of Makha Bucha (around February).

A tradition since the times of Sukhothai, it is described in the inscription stone found at Nakhon Chum of how processions were organised to pay homage to the town's major religious sites. The fair today consists of colorfully decorated parades of participants dressed in ancient attires crossing the Ping to pay homage to the Holy Relic on the Nakhon Chum side of the river.

Activities: The visitors can experience the parade to pay respect to Phra That Nakhon Chum and other activities which related to the Buddhist religion. There also the local products selling, the exhibition of agricultural products, cultural performances and light and sound presentations.

For more information please contact: Kampeangphet Province Office Tel. 0 5570 5004

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ROMANTIC DINING ON THE BEACH THB 3,600 nett.

events

Inclusive of 5 course set dinner Table reservation 038 933 888 Vol. 01 No. 07 | April 1-15 2013

Pattaya supports Earth Hour

Earth Hour 2013 Hilton Pattaya countdown

Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa Earth Hour 2013

Earth Hour 2013 Hilton Pattaya with GM Philippe Kronberg

Sheraton Team ready to light their candles

Dinner with a cause at Elements Restaurant Sheraton Pattaya

Hilton Pattaya was one of many internationally owned hotels which joined in Earth Day electricity savings campaign which was held on March 23. Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa also helped in the energy-saving and anti-global warming enterprise by turning off as many light as reasonably safe for a period of one hour. Sheraton Pattaya organized a dinner by candlelight in similar vein.

Star gazing at Cape Dara Invited by Khun Surat Mekavarakul, president of the luxurious Cape Dara Resort, North Pattaya, a group of Thailand’s star gazers and amateur astronomers assembled to use the telescopes set up near the infinity swimming pool. Khun Oh gave can illuminating talk about the heavenly bodies and their characteristics.

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rendezvous Happy Birthday Malinee

Vol. 01 No. 07 | April 1-15 2013

Emergency Medical Technician Course

Bangkok Hospital Pattaya presented certificates of completion of training to the 2nd group of graduates from the Emergency Medical Technician–Basic(EMT-B) course. The certificates were presented by Dr. Prayut Somprakit, CEO – Group 3 and Southern region and Dr. Piyaporn Tippayarat, a chairwoman of training committee.

Trat governor visits Centara ChaanTalay

Korean actresses choose Cape Dara Resort Pattaya

Benjawan Anpruang (left), governor of Trat, enjoyed lunch and a social gathering at Centara ChaanTalay Resort & Villas Trat. He is seen here with Chainid Ngow-Sirimanee (right), chief executive officer of Property Perfect Plc, which owns the resort, and Kris Vanitchanont, the resort’s general manager.

Korean actresses and models Yura Seo and Eun Jung An seen here during their stay at Cape Dara Resort Pattaya. Also is photo is Pattamon Mekavarakul (centre), hotel assistant general manager

TV execs holiday at Centara Grand Hua Hin

Centara Hat Yai welcomes Pod Moderndog

Jacques Mury (right), general manager of Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin, seen here with TV Channel 3's Thitima Sangkhapitak (centre), producer, and Yutthana Lorphanpaibul (left), director, during their holiday.

Pattavee Pongnonthakul (right), general manager of Centara Hat Yai, welcomes actor-singer Pod Moderndog, otherwise known as Thanachai Auchchin (left), on his stay at the hotel.

Malinee Suwansaenee, managing director and publisher of Pattaya Expat Magazine, recently celebrated her Birthday at the Montien Hotel and Diana Resort.

Best to the newly weds

Amnat Panit (right) and Sainab Panit (left) led the Islam wedding ceremony for son Iyavin Panit (second from right) and his bride, Lalita Piromsee. In attendance were members of the Provincial Council and other local politicians.

Movers & Shakers hits Havana Bar

Organic green garden at Centara Sandy Beach Resort Movers & Shakers held in conjunction with Kingdom property and Mix 88.5 FM recently organized ‘The first quarterly premier corporate networking event in Pattaya’ at Havana Bar, Holiday Inn Pattaya.

Picture from left, Irina Breslavtseva, marketing manager, Kingdom Property Co., Ltd.; Garth Solly, general manager, Holiday Inn Pattaya and Chutima Konfai, director of sales, Holiday Inn Pattaya

Vatthanachai Phipatthontant (left), general manager of Centara Sandy Beach Resort Da Nang, Vietnam, takes guests to tour the resort's organic green garden, showing them the source of the fresh produce they enjoy during their stay. Resort staffs also lend a hand caring for the crops. Also seen in the photo are Tran Thanh Sang (centre), executive chef, and Nguyen Nhat Tien (right), housekeeping manager.

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Centara AndaDhevi Resort & Spa Krabi welcomes Ambassador of Chile Wayne Duberly (centre), general manager of Centara AndaDhevi Resort & Spa Krabi welcomes HE Javier Becker (left), Ambassador of Chile to Thailand andAna Regina Gonzalez-Molina (right), his wife on their arrival to stay at the resort for their holiday.

GTA at Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa

An UAE Travel Agency Group, led by GTA, visited the Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa. Seen here are Unchulee Meesri, sales manager (standing, right), Mittana Chamoyklang, assistant catering sales manager (standing, second from right), and Nattarat Yeamklin, administrative assistant to Sales (standing, left).

Mantra hosts wine dinner Italian Sandrone Wine Dinner at Mantra Restaurant & Bar was cohosted by Piyawan Niruntraporn (left) from Vanichwathana (Bangkok) Co., Ltd., and attended by (left to right) Dr. Cristian Maddalena, export manager, Sandrone Lusiano; Richard Margo, resident manager, Amari Orchid Pattaya, and Supparatch Piyawatcharapun, Mantra social director.

White Party on Beach at Pullman Pattaya Hotel G Lit up with a glorious night of fun at the White Party G Session at the Beach Club in Pullman Pattaya Hotel G, guests celebrate life, love, great times and everything hip and happy. The shimmer of highly attractive white outfits shone bright at many tables--laden with food and drinks--and glistened on the dance floor. More than 100 guests enjoyed the music of Olga Ola and mingled with the sexy DJ Jo. The next G Session Beach Party will be Saturday, April 6, from 9 pm. Free entrance with GIP bracelets, and weekend accommodation packages available.

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Hotel Promotions The Sukosol Introduces “Songkran Package” The Sukosol, Bangkok invites you and your families to spend Thai New Year celebration with the special offer “Songkran Package”.

Book this 2-night of “Songkran Package in a Deluxe Room for Bht 6,300++ for 2 persons, this wonderful package comes with unlimited complimentary WiFi connection with daily sumptuous breakfast, you and your loved ones will enjoy 2 signature drinks at Sapphire bar, special late check-out at 15:00 hrs., enjoy exotic family buffet dinner at Patummat International Restauramt, complimentary Songkran Survival Kit including plastic covers for valuables for guest staying between April 13 and April 16, and 25% discount for booking the extended night at The Sukosol.

Celebrate Songkran Festival on Thai New Year 2013 with the “Songkran Package” at The Sukosol, available from 1-30 April, 2013.

For more information and make reservations, please call 0-2247-0123. Ext 11031108 or email at reservations@sukosolhotels.com or www.sukosolhotels.com or www.facebook.com/TheSukosolBangkok.

PATTAYA SEA SAND SUN

RESORT AND SPA

Luxury on the Beach,Oasis by the Shore

Hilton Pattaya Participates in ‘Hilton HHonors Treasured Moments Promotion’ Hilton Pattaya, together with Hilton Worldwide’s portfolio of hotels and resorts in Asia Pacific, today kicked off its holiday getaway offer ‘Travel and Save 20% Off Rooms and Dining for Those Treasured Moments’. Available for booking between March 8 and April 30, 2013, guests can enjoy 20 percent off rooms and dining at participating hotels and resorts from the Hilton HHonors portfolio for stays from March 13 to December 31, 2013, guests can experience their dream holidays in a stylish environment and indulge themselves with contemporary dining options at Hilton Pattaya.

Thailand is a tropical paradise for sun seekers, shoppers and adventurers alike. Rich in culture and warm in hospitality, this colourful destination promises unforgettable experiences. From the bustling city of Bangkok to the pristine beaches of Phuket, Pattaya, Koh Samui and Hua Hin, guests can be assured a complete luxury experience worth sharing!

To book, call +66 (0)38 253 000 or visit pattaya.hilton.com Terms and conditions • Book between March 8, 2013 and April 30, 2013 and stay at participating Conrad Hotels and Resorts/Doubletree by Hilton properties/Hampton by Hilton properties/Hilton Hotels & Resorts/ Hilton Garden Inn hotels/Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts between March 13, 2013 and December 31, 2013.

• Some hotels may extend offer period. Subject to availability.

• Full non-refundable prepayment required at time of booking. Your credit card will be charged immediately for the total amount quoted for the entire stay as reserved and refunds or credits will not be issued. Charges cannot be applied to other stays, services or merchandise. Booking cannot be changed.

• Must book at least five (5) days in advance of arrival, except where noted.

• Discount is 20% off Best Available Rates and total food and beverage bill (excluding tax and gratuity) at participating outlets at each property.

• Blackout dates may apply and vary by property. Food and beverage discount may not be used in conjunction with any other food and beverage discount, promotion or offer.

• Additional terms and restrictions apply. Visit www.hhonors.com/moments for full terms and conditions.

The Peninsula Bangkok Offers The Suite and Green Package The Peninsula Bangkok together with the Thai Country Club is offering and exclusive golf experience combined with impeccable hospitality and great savings.

The Thai Country Club plays host to some of the best professional golfers and prestigious professional golf tournaments in Asia, and has been named Best Golf Course in Thailand and Best Clubhouse in Asia-Pacific by readers of Asian Golf Monthly magazine.

Golf enthusiasts will enjoy a round of golf complete with caddie at the Thai Country Club and one night’s stay in a Deluxe Suite with spectacular river views The Suite and Green package is priced at THB 19,888* available from 1 May to 31 August 2013 and includes: One night accommodation in a Deluxe Suite Daily buffet breakfast at River Café and Terrace for two persons Green fees for two persons and one caddie each (excluding gratuity) Round-trip van transfer shuttle to the Thai Country Club Late check out until 6:00 pm (subject to availability)

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

A masterpiece of luxury is Pattaya’s Sea Sand Sun Resort and Spa, a perfect choice for your vacation. This 60-room boutique hotel combines style, elegance and comfort. Enjoy the warm ambiance of a Bali tropical garden complemented by 27 oversized individual private pools, villas suites and garden suites with relaxing Jacuzzis.

Pattaya’s newest ultra-luxury resort combines natural beauty with stunning private beachfront accommodations in Ocean Boutique, Garden Boutique, DeLuxe Pavilion and Garden Villas.

Indulge your senses in the pampering world of the Spa; allow the competent hands of experts to ease your tensions and set aside your worries. Or enjoy any number of rewarding experiences and lavish services. Dine intimately at the luxurious Horizon Sea View Restaurant, or simply reminisce over cocktails as a romantic sun sets on the Gulf of Siam. Or focus on fitness in the fitness center or enjoying outdoor activities.

Located in Chonburi Province, Pattaya Sea Sand Sun Resort and Spa is about 15 kilometres south of Pattaya and 163 kilometres from Bangkok--a mere 90 minutes from Bangkok or Suvarnabhumi International Airport.

Accommodation The 60 luxurious guest rooms blend modern Thai décor with the inspiring experience of a tropical Bali garden-setting. All rooms are strikingly appointed. Some have king-size beds, others have twin-beds, all have cozy duvets. Most have a private balcony and modern, open-style bathroom.

Each Garden and Pool Villas Suite is secluded by a wall of lush vegeta-

tion to ensure your privacy, and each has its own executive private-plunge pool. A rustic bathtub and a tropical Bali garden setting adds to the ambiance of these suites.

Dining The Horizon Seaview Restaurant, located on the seaside, serves a wide variety of gourmet Thai and international cuisine prepared and served by a first-class staff.

The resident chef personally supervises individual recipes and the selection of fresh ingredients-seafood, meat and vegetables-to assure quality and flavour. A sensational BBQ dinner is a specialty of the house. The Seaside Bar offers after-dinner relaxation over pleasant drinks and cool sea breeze. A wide array of drinks is available, as well as imported and local wines, beers, soft drinks and and fruit juices.

Spa A serene sanctuary allows guests to indulge their senses while undergoing invigorating treatments.

Rhythms of expert touch deliver the ideal massage at the Sea Sun Sand Spa. Relax and refresh in the luxury of specially-blended aromatic oils. The Spa’s signature treatment encourages balance and the flow of energy, promoting well-being while smoothing the skin and combating excess fat and cellulite.

And after a long day in the sun, Facial De La Mer’s skin experts are ready to provide facial treatments for sensitive skin, including a facial scrub to stimulate circulation, clean and freshen your skin, and induce a state of deep relaxation.

Pattaya Sea Sand Sun Resort and Spa 78/4 M.8 Sukhumwit K.M. 163 Nachomtien, Sattathip, Chonburi 20250 www.pattayaseasandsunspasesort.com

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I had assumed that visiting North Korea as a tourist would be wellnigh impossible and ridiculously expensive, yet neither is actually true. But why bother in the first place? Well, North Korea is the world’s last remaining hermit kingdom, or rather republic, which is always in the international news. I’m no communist, but I really wanted to try and understand a little bit about what makes the place tick. In other words, is there a case for Kim Jong-un?

Independent travel as we understand the term is not allowed by Pyongyang, although you can easily join a group doing the strangest things including a fishing holiday. I wanted a short trip of a week or so centred on the capital city. Koryo Tours (www.koryogroup.com) is a long-established company with standard tours. A seven-day package is typically about US$2,500, but you can go for as few as three days.

The price includes flying into Pyongyang from Beijing (one way).

Your tour price assumes you will be leaving by train back to the Chinese capital. But you can pay a premium and fly back as well. Contrary to widely held belief, Americans can visit North Korea but they must fly out – the rules actually forbid them departing by train. On our trip of 16 people there were five Americans.

Some people travel to North Korea just to have the splendid visa stamp in their passport.

Koryo Tours insists you arrive in Beijing the day before your flight for a comprehensive briefing on what to expect and for warnings on unacceptable behavior, such as the

slightest sign of disrespect to the ruling Kim dynasty. You fly in Soviet era planes and the snack on board will never win a gourmet prize as you may guess. The flying waitresses were fine and the only unpleasant feature was a scowling air marshal, obviously a secret policeman, who walked up and down the central aisle more or less continually.

Pyongyang airport is quiet and a welcome relief from the crowds at Suvarnabhumi or Heathrow. A trusty guide or government minder is with you every step of the way and no chance you will be cheated. What kind of hotel you find yourself in depends how much you paid for the trip. They are roughly two-star European standard and you simply must try the local beer Taedonggang for around $1 in the bar. It’s good practice to offer your tour guide a drink. Typically they are ex-army, speak English and are friendly as long as you steer clear of sensitive subjects such as the leader’s waistline or cyberspace attacks on South Korea. Contrary to hostile propaganda, hotel rooms are not bugged (I think).

North Korea – a new travel idea

There are many restrictions on the movement of foreigners in North Korea, although you can stroll alone in the gardens of your hotel as long as you are not carrying a camera. Our group stuck to the standard locations in Pyongyang and the Mount Myohyang area. In the capital city propaganda is king and everywhere you see posters of male and female soldiers running with missiles or AK47s in their arms as a sign of “peaceful” research. You can easily buy souvenirs of every kind at tourist shops, especially those near the Arch of Triumph which, incidentally, is bigger than its brother in Paris .

North Korea’s capital city and the tourist areas are not short of things to see. One of the international Friendship Halls boasts the presence of the bulletproof limousine which Stalin gave Kim Il-sung in the 1950s.

You can also see a treasure trove of all the gifts over the years given by visiting statesmen to the Kim dynasty. There are also opulent train carriages which once upon a time carried statesmen such as Mao Zedong to Pyongyang. We also visited the demilitarized zone and

the armistice village of Panmunjom where the two Koreas stare at each other through binoculars.

Of course, there is much not to love in North Korea. The militaryfirst policy means that the bulk of the population is in fear of the authorities, no denying that, but a foreigner won’t have the opportunity of discussing the situation with ordinary citizens. We saw no evidence of starvation or gulags, but then we wouldn’t would we? There is a pervasive eerie calm wherever you go, or rather are taken, and the streets are just too clean and the monuments to military might just too perfect.

I visited just after North Korea exploded its third atomic device in early 2013. There was and is much talk about war, provocation, assaults and turning cities into a sea of fire. On the other hand we found the demilitarized zone quiet and certainly no sign of troop movements. More interestingly, it was business as usual at the Kaesong industrial zone which houses over a hundred South Korean companies making basic goods and employing

by Frank Carleton

50,000 North Koreans on basic salaries.

Was it worth the trip? Absolutely.

North Korea is certainly safe for tourists and the market is growing with 3,500 western tourists visiting in the last year or so. But don’t forget that there are around 30,000 Chinese visitors to add to that total. North Korea is certainly unique and you never have a dull moment. You are likely to make new friends quickly with the others in your group. Every visitor will certainly be affected by soaking up the atmosphere of the workers’ paradise.

“Don’t forget,” our guide said, “North Korea is a small country surrounded by enemies who are dominated by the United States.

American troops devastated Pyongyang during the Korean War, but we have never bombed Washington or New York.” I was tempted to reply “Not yet anyway” but thought better of it. I wouldn’t want to be put on the black-list as I would like to return for a further dose of enlightenment in due course.

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Mick & Di The Food Lovers

The Atrium at Ambassador City Multi-choice pan-Asian kitchens at pleasantly affordable prices

We pass Ambassador City quite a lot but had never ventured inside until late last year when we were invited to review the stand-alone Italian restaurant, Pasta Pasta, which overlooks the pristine beach and sea. At that time we were also invited to return and review Atrium, the signature restaurant in the Ocean Wing.

The first impression of Ambassador City is that it is huge. With 4,200 rooms on 40acres overlooking the beach, it consists of five hotel buildings, eight restaurants, bars, nightclubs, convention center, and fitness

facilities and also claims to have Asia’s largest swimming pool. This is indeed a city. As our mission was to review the Atrium restaurant we entered through the Ocean Wing building. It is an astonishing new edifice; gaze upwards and 18 floors of trailing plant-covered balconies soar into the glass roof. Eight panoramic lifts whizz up and down taking occupants to their luxury accommodation. It is one imposing, massive space and a sight we never expected to find when we stepped into the foyer.

We were now seated in the Atrium restaurant and could take

stock of our striking surroundings.

This is one glitzy space dominated by a spectacular circular performance platform elevated above the restaurant where a trio of musicians entertains nightly.

The menu is also huge. A quintet of kitchens offers Asian cuisine (Japanese, Thai, Chinese and noodle) plus their popular Steak and Grill. We were to be served a tasting menu from all chefs and while waiting sipped on a very acceptable Jackaroo Chardonnay.

All prices are net and the wine is available from only B.800 per bottle.

Primarily we wanted to try the

pan-Asian kitchens but did spot many interesting western items on the Steak and Grill menu such as imported steaks, kebabs, beef stroganoff plus lots of fish options including the ubiquitous fish and chips for only B.300.

First to arrive at our table was a splendid bowl of glistening, polar fresh sashimi. Either you love this Japanese delicacy or you don’t – no two ways about it. We adore it with a vengeance and the Atrium’s mixed combination was a wonderful example, fresh, succulent and superb (and at only B.220). The Japanese menu also features an extensive choice of teppanyaki dishes and various mixed or individual servings of sushi. Teppanyaki sets offer U.S. or New Zealand beef, Kurobuta pork or chicken, salmon, saba, snow fish or a mixed seafood platter, all are served with garlic fried rice, miso soup, mixed salad and kimchi. We tasted the grilled scallop set and it was very good. Big, bouncy scallops lightly grilled and presented with its accoutrements made for an ideal culinary collection.

From the Chinese kitchen we were served baked rice with seafood in a clay pot (B.180) which again is another personal favourite, the heady flavours of the fish infusing the sweetness of the rice. There are more than 10 baked rice variations to please all tastes plus a myriad of stir-fried or deep-fried creations such as sweet and sour chicken, prawns or fish, stir-fried young kale with salted fish, and stir-fried sea bass with black pepper. Prices are in the B.150/180 range. Noodle lovers listen up – there are 30 different variations to please your palates including some Vietnamese favourites.

We haven’t even mentioned the Thai kitchen yet! We were served deep-fried shrimp cakes swiftly followed by an eye-rewarding prik

nam pla too (shrimp paste dipping sauce and Thai mackerel). This Thai dish is a speciality of Chef Panus and was just a treat to gaze upon. Masses of cooked and raw vegetables nestled around a bowl of fiery spiced splendour with a crisply-grilled mackerel just crying out to be dipped into the chili paste (B.160). A wonderful dish and one that we would happily return to eat again on a private visit. Tod mon gung again was delicious, giant whole prawns served in doughnut like shapes threaded onto sticks of fragrant lemon grass. Massaman chicken curry was another tasting dish to hit the table, redolent with aromatic spicing it was perhaps a little on the sweet side for our palates but an adept dish nevertheless. Lots of red and green curries, soups and stir fried dishes with Thai sets (from B.175) the likes of jasmine rice with red curry paste and crispy pork crackling served with salted egg, or what about fried shrimps with roasted chili paste served with rice and deep-fried crispy dried squids?

We have to say we would never have thought about popping into Ambassador City for a sashimi platter, sweet and sour chicken or to tuck into a plate of prik nam pla too, but now we most definitely will! For such a venue the pricing is reasonable in the extreme especially at night when you are also entertained by a very accomplished trio of musicians. So next time you’re in a quandary as to where to go for lunch or dinner – why not head down to Ambassador City and give the Atrium a run for your money?

Ambassador City

Sukumvit Road, Na Jomtien The Atrium is open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

All prices are net (inclusive of service charge and VAT).

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F&B Promotions Flames Restaurant

Seafood

When meat meets foie gras @ Flames Restaurant

Flavors of the sea at Radius, Cape Dara Resort Pattaya

From now until end of April, you are invited to discover new harmonious dish. The Rossini touch comes to Flames restaurant at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort, Pattaya with Australian beef tenderloin on baby spinach and mixed berry balsamic sauce; grilled duck confit with foie gras terrine and grilled French beans; braised pork belly with foie gras and rich herb sauce or grille black cod with foie gras terrine on a light white wine sauce. Prices are started at only THB 510++ (subject to service charge and VAT).

What's Cooking?

Marriott chefs feed Aussie sailors

The Radius offers the best value Seafood for lunch and dinner. Enjoy a wide selection of your favorite seafood items fresh from the ocean and prepared just the way you love it. Prawns, Crab, scallop, and more. Make sure you save some room for dessert!

Enjoy varieties of cakes, fruit and ice cream. Indulge you with our Seafood and true warm hospitality.

Available everyday from 6:00 to 22:00 hrs.

Flames is located on the beachfront of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya.The restaurant opens daily from 19:00-22:30 hrs. Call to reserve at (038) 301 234 ext. 4272.

For reservations or information, please contact 038 933888

Vietnamese Food

Benihana Buffet Lunch

Vietnamese Food Promotion at Flavors, International Restaurant Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel

It’s time for a spectacular start to your buffet lunch at Benihana, Pattaya.

Imagine the sounds of chefs cooking, guests laughing and the sizzle of succulent food on the grill. Enjoy the best of Japanese cooking while you catch the action of our chefs, they will keep you entertained until you walk out the door!

Our talented chefs will cook live in front of you at our Teppanyaki stations, as you enjoy the selection of our fabulous food. Our buffet features a great range of cuisine, such as soups, pasta, salads and much more!

Flavors, International Restaurant invites you to discover 13 days of the authentic dinner buffet and rich Vietnamese cuisine with culinary talent of guest chefs from Saigon.

Among a list of healthy dishes prepared by Chef Phung Thi Thuy and Chef Nguyen Binh Hinh will be Pan fried spicy river prawns, Roast lemongrass honey chicken, then enjoy live cooking includes Pho noodle and Vietnamese crepe (Banh Xeo). Price starts at THB. 1,390++. Promo start now until April 10, 2013.

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

Two Thai cuisine chefs, Phanita Salapirom and Boonma Intaraksa, from the Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa seen here visiting HMAS Parramatta at Jook Samet Wharf for a cooking class.

On arrival they were greeted by the Petty Officer Aaron Keillor and escorted to the galley where they were met by seamen Tony Randall, Stuart Helps, Jai Kinsella, Luke Hartup, Michael Burridge, Valentyna Bezugla, Matthew Bowen and Rose Arber. Recipe books were distributed and the two chefs prepared Tom Yum Goong, Spicy Pork Salad and Panang Curry for an appreciative crew. Certificates were presented to all chefs in the galley and in return the Thai chefs got a Ships Ball Cap.The Navy League Siam Council set up the culinary exchange for the visiting Australian Navy ship.

For further details and reservations, please call 02 125 5010 or 02 125 5000 # 8200

lobster and seafood Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya invites to taste “A wealth of lobster and seafood” at Acqua Restaurant March is the month for lobster and the best of the rest. Chef Alberto Bruni from “Acqua” Italian Restaurant, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya has special sourced the freshest lobsters of the season; a crustacean trilogy of king prawns, rock lobster and sea scallops; steamed Phuket lobster on Catalan salad; Canadian lobster with spaghetti and artichokes or grilled crustacean and seafood deluxe platter with sauces and condiments of Canadian lobster, king prawns, rock lobster and crystal prawns.

Available for dinner throughout March 2013. Priced starting from THB 890++ (subject to 10% service charge and 7% VAT).

Acqua Italian restaurant is located in the Main Lobby of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, and opens daily from 18.30-22.30 hrs.

Call now for reservations, at +66 (0) 3830 1234 ext. 4266

Dusit Gourmet – Mango, Emperor of the Fruits

The Cascade Restaurant – Cuisine from Chiang Mai

Enjoy the rich flavour of Mango presented to you in such mouthwatering dessert creations as Chocolate Mango Mousse, Mango Shooter Sponge Cake, Mango Pie, Mango Macaroon and Fresh Mango Tartlet. All items are priced at THB 140 net per piece. Until 30 April 2013 Dusit Gourmet is near the Main Lobby of Dusit Thani Pattaya Open daily from 7am – 10pm

Satisfy your craving for Chiang Mai cuisine from the northern part of Thailand with dishes such as Sai Aua (Northern Thai Spicy Sausage with peanuts, chili and shaved cabbage at THB235); Khanom Jin Nam Ngiao (Rice Noodles with red curry spice and pork spare ribs at THB295); Lanna Larb Pla (Spicy Minced Fish with cucumber, green beans, chili powder and northern herbs at THB 275) as well as Khao Soy (Northern Yellow Curry Soup with chicken, crispy egg noodles, shallots and lime at THB 285) and many more.

Until 30 April 2013 The Cascade is located near the Main Lobby of Dusit Thani Pattaya Open daily from 6am- 1am

For more information, please call (0) 3842 5611-7 Ext. 2497

For reservations, please call (0) 3842 5611-7 ext. 2153

Noodle Affairs Noodle lovers, be prepared for the coming up of the noodle affairs at Ming Xing Restaurant, Cape Dara Resort. 24 variety noodles selections are to fill up your appetite during lunchtime. The meal start with salad appetizer, follow by an unlimited serves of noodle affairs at your choice, then wrap up a meal with a dessert. The affairs start from 1st March and last until 30th June 2013 for only THB 390 nett per person.

Ming Xing opens daily from 11:00 pm – 2:00 pm.

For private room or table reservation, please call 038 933 888

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

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Level 34, Hilton Pattaya

thefoodloverspattayatoday@msn.com

Royal Californian wine dinner at De Vine Wine Club Pattaya’s foodiegentsia and oenophiles gathered recently in the opulence of the Royal Grill Room and Wine Cellar to enjoy the latest De Vine Wine Club dinner. The host for the evening was the distinguished sommelier, David Milliere who selected six excellent and varied California wines to accompany the exquisite food of executive chef Walter Thenisch. Graciously presided over by Panga Vathunkul, managing director of Royal Cliff Hotels Group, these occasions are eagerly anticipated and enthusiastically attended.

At the reception area we enjoyed a glass or two of a California sparkling wine, namely Beringer White Zinfandel which paired well with the extensive selection of creative canapés. The ambiance was energized as we were all filled with high expectations for the six-course pageant of tastes to come. Moving into the stylish interior of the Royal Grill Room, with its traditional rich teakwood décor and the soaring arched windows (plus the dulcet notes of the piano player) it just oozed with luxury and extravagance.

A plate of golden baked goat cheese launched this prestigious event paired with the chosen Chateau Sauverian Chardonnay, Alexandra Valley 2006. This proved to be an excellent curtain raiser, the slightly acidic goat cheese was served on grilled Peckham pear slivers with a grape and endive salad laced with roasted nuts and a grapeseed oil dressing.

Complimented by the fresh lemony aromas and creamy texture of this

accomplished wine it was a delightful opener.

Pan seared Pacific scallops were then served with a pouring of Chateau St. Jean Fume Blanc, Sonoma 2006. Soft and juicy the scallops were pillows of deliciousness resting on a mound of vanilla flavoured celeriac mash with the added zing of the jalapeno emulsion providing a subtle yet significant moment of heat. The Fume Blanc was crisp and refreshing accompanied by fragrant aromas and another ideal pairing with the deluxe seafood.

So far so gastro. It was now time to move on to the pre-main course, seared Magret duck breast with fig and shallot compote on a roselle reduction. Succulent

and satisfying it was seared to exactness with textbook rareness. The sweetness of the fruity/ oniony compote was cleverly balanced by the roselle (a type of hibiscus) reduction. We had now progressed onto the reds and the selected wine to accompany this meaty course was a Beringer California Collection, Cabernet Sauvignon 2010. It poured a deep, ruby red and smelt of sweet red berries, raspberries and a touch of blackberry. With light tannins it made easy friends with the gourmet duck.

It was now time for the main event and silver cloched plates materialized across the room. After serving and on a “one, two, three” command, the domes were lifted revealing the culinary star of the evening, roasted US beef tenderloin on a Jerusalem artichoke vegetable tart with a truffle butter sauce. To harmonise with the beef we were served Chateau St. Jean, Pinot Noir, Sonama 2007.

Rounded tannins and a creamy texture agreeably escorted the big beefy flavours of the main course.

After all this gleeful eating the prospect of another course was a little daunting but the aptly named last course, “sweet temptation” propelled us to reach for our dessert spoons. Dark chocolate blueberry delight with vanilla crème brulee was a sugar soothing finale to this stunning meal.

Accompanied by a Chateau Souverin Merlot, Alexander

Valley 2005 we were indeed in a happy place. We consider that chocolate and red wine have a blissful affinity and this match of the Alexander Valley Merlot with its classic aromas of ripe black plum, blueberry and currant did not disappoint. Royal pralines, coffee or tea nicely lowered the curtain on this grand epicurean event.

These extraordinary wining and dining occasions at The Royal Cliff Resort offer the unique opportunity to taste vintage wines from around the world matched to a perfectly balanced menu. Exceptional food, exemplary service and attention to detail make for a very special and memorable gastro-occasion.

For more details about the wine club and membership, please email: wineclub@royalcliff.com.

The Royal Grill Room and Wine Cellar The Royal Cliff Beach Resort, Pratanmak Road, Pattaya. Tel: (038) 250 421 or visit www.royalcliff.com Open evenings from 6:30 to 10:30 (last orders) and closed on Tuesdays. Amex, Visa and Mastercard accepted. Dress code applies.

L11

top tables

Vol. 01 No. 07 | April 1-15 2013

Level 34, Hilton Pattaya

Yum Pla Foo Fried fluffy Seabass with green mango tossed in a spicy lime dressing

Ingredients 150g Seabass 500ml Vegetable oil 5g Plain flour 100g Green mango,

Cooking Method

sliced 10g Chinese celery, sliced 10g Spring onion, sliced 1 Red chilli, chopped 5g Shallots, sliced

Stream the fish fillets in a steamer for about 10 minutes Remove the fish fillets from the boiling and use a fork to break the fish into pieces Heat the oil in a medium, heavy-based frying pan, deep enough for the oil to cover the fish

20g Frisee lettuce

Coat the fish pieces in the flour

20ml Fish sauce 25ml Lime juice 20g Sugar

Deep fry until golden brown Remove the fish from the oil and drain on kitchen paper Transfer the fish piece to serving plate

10g Peanut, deep fried

tee Chef May kolrat g Thaimon od al Thai Fo n io it d a r :T aya Specialty ilton Patt H , e r la F : ing @ Perform Pla Foo ish: Yum

e: Full nam

Featured

d

Top with frisee lettuce and deep fried peanuts To make the dressing, combine lime juice, fish sauce and sugar in a small bowl and whisk until sugar is completely dissolved.

Add sliced green mango, shallots, chopped chilli, sliced Chinese

Hilton Pattaya 333/101 Moo 9 Nong Prue Banglamung, Pattaya Chonburi, Thailand 20260, Tel: +66 (0)3825 3000 Fax: +66 (0)3 825 3001. pattaya.hilton.com

celery and spring onion Serve together with Yum Pla Foo

Green Tean Cured Salmon with Spiced Yuzu Gelée, Micro greens, Basil leaves and Stuffed Longan Berries F O R T HE CU R ED SALMO N: I was planning on presenting a meat dish for this issue, but since it will be Thailand’s Songkran Festival, I thought it would be fitting to celebrate water! And since I love seafood, here’s a play on one of my award winning dishes. This is such a simple dish with quite a complex flavor profile! It plays on sweetness, sourness, saltiness and bitterness with a whole lot of freshness! Just like the Thai flavors I love! I hope you enjoy it and Suksan Wan Songkran!

1 filet of salmon 2 lbs. Salt 1 lb. Sugar ¼ lb. Green tea leaves 3 tablespoon each Peppercorns (pink, green, tellicherry black) 2 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns Zest of 1 Lime Zest of 1 Lemon - Pat the salmon filet dry. Mix all the ingredients for the cure and cover the salmon filet with this, making sure all of the meat is covered thoroughly and wrap it with a plastic wrap, air tight. Hold in the fridge for around 16 to 18 hours. When done, wash under cold running water, and make sure the salt is washed out. If there are zest and green tea left on the fish, it’s ok. Pat dry, really well, and reserve for later use, in the fridge.

F O R T HE SP I CE D Y U Z U GE LE E : 1 cup water 1 tablespoon sugar 3 tablespoon yuzu juice 2 tablespoon sriracha 3 sheets of gelatin - Bloom the gelatin by adding it to a bowl of water. Heat up the 1 cup of water, yuzu and sugar to almost boiling.

Squeeze the water out of the gelatin and add it to the mixture. Stir until the gelatin melts and add the rest of the ingredients. Cool it down and place in the fridge, until ready to use.

T HE R EST OF TH E I NGR EDI ENT S: Picked basil leaves Longan berries (fresh or canned) Micro greens

TO P LATE: Slice the gelatin into cubes and stuff them inside the longan berries. Slice the salmon into thin ribbons and place on the plate, add some basil leaves, micro greens and the stuffed longan. Break down the left over pieces of the gelee with a fork and add a little bit on the plate. To make it spicier, add a couple of dots of the sriracha on the finished plate.

L12

fairness-fitness-finery

Vol. 01 No. 07 | April 1-15 2013

Promotions Spa Songkarn Promotion at Royal Garden Spa Capture this season’s vibrant radiance and let your natural beauty shine with a body treatment journey, available throughout April 2013.

Pamper every inch of skin with a 90 minute Thai Herbal Compress and treat your complexion to a complimentary Aromatic Floral Bath or Aromatic Steam. Emerge transformed from head to toe, and leave with a complimentary Anantara Sun Soothing Spray.

Baht 2,800++.

Royal Garden Spa at Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa is designed in the classic beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Lanna era, with luxurious spa suites offering an inspirationally traditional hideaway in the heart of Pattaya’s bustling city center.

Terms & conditions: • Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount, voucher or promotion.

• Offer is available throughout April 2013.

• Advance reservation required.

• Offer is subject to availability and can be changed without prior notice.

For more information and reservations please contact Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa Tel: (66) 038 412 120 Ext.1711 E-mail: ms_pmrs@minornet.com

Juicy Mani Smoothie Pedi at eforea A Uniquely Indulgent Experience Makes It Easy to Have a Healthy Lifestyle Hilton Pattaya promotion ‘Juicy Mani Smoothie Pedi’ at eforea: spa at Hilton. Available on Level 17 between 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, guests can enjoy a new healthy range of juices or smoothies while they soak their tensions away and their hands and feet are soothed and nourished in the luxurious spa retreat surroundings.

A blend of effective antioxidant and detox formulas naturally helps support and protects the body from many negative effects of modern day life. With all ingredients sourced from local produce, these juices and smoothies are great ways to kickstart a new regime or maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Guests will indulge with luxury manicure and pedicure treatments including cuticle sculpting, nail shaping, gentle exfoliation, hydrating mask and effervescence soak to brighten nails and revitalize tired hands and feet. The treatments are finished off with a massage and polish.

Discover the new Juicy Mani Smoothie Pedi at eforea: spa at Hilton located at Hilton Pattaya with a luxury manicure or pedicure treatment available between THB 1,200 nett to THB 1,600 nett.

For more information, call +66 (0)38 253 000, email pattaya.info@hilton.com or visit Hilton.com/eforeaspa.

Fitness and weight-loss Health, fitness and weight loss with Centara On board for the launch of the health, fitness and weight-loss program at Centara Grand at CentralWorld are Daniel Remon (left), founder of Fitcorp Asia and Luxury Health Retreats, and Paul Snow (right), corporate operations manager, Centara Hotels & Resorts. The programme was implemented at Away Suansawan Chiang Mai, Centara Boutique Collection, and then followed at other Centara Hotels & Resorts.

Not Sleeping well at Night?

Seven Tips To Help You Sleep Soundly

by Elizabeth Smith, UrbaneWomen.com

Do you find yourself tossing and turning through the night? Not being able to sleep can be very frustrating. Everything that happened during the day is racing through your mind. Every little sound keeps you awake. You lie there thinking what can you do to get some sleep?

You do not need sleeping pills to sleep soundly tonight. The following seven tips will help you to get that needed rest. If you can implement one or more of the tips we share in this article, we guarantee that you will sleep soundly tonight!

1. Your Daily Routine Should Include Some Physical Activity If you wish to fall asleep faster and to enjoy a deeper sleep, you need to start a regular routine of physical activity.

Better sleep is promoted by regular physical activity.

Having said that, however, you need to be aware of your timing. Exercising too close to bedtime may prevent you from falling asleep, as you may be way too energized after physical activity.

This issue can be avoided if you exercise earlier in the day.

2. Remove Distractions There is only one thing your bed should be used for. Okay, make it two.

But for now, we are talking about sleep.

The bed is not the place to pay your bills or answer e-mails. Do not watch TV in bed, as the flickering light from the screen will only keep you awake.

3. Make A Schedule and Stick To It Remember when you were young and your mother always made you go to bed at the same time? She had the right idea. By keeping to a schedule, your body naturally sets its internal rhythm. This allows you to consistently awaken every day refreshed at the same time.

Keep to the same schedule even on the weekends.

This will keep you from feeling overly tired the next morning.

4. Make Yourself Comfortable Your room should be ideal for your sleeping needs.

Quiet, dark, and cool are often the perfect conditions.

In order to create an ideal sleeping environment, you may find you need a fan, or perhaps room-darkening shades, possibly even earplugs; do whatever it takes to make yourself comfortable at sleep time.

5. No Napping We know that a nap is a good way to recharge, especially if you are older. However, if you take a nap, you may well be making your insomnia worse.

If you suffer from insomnia, consider eliminating naps. If you must take a nap, do it in the early afternoon, and limit such breaks to a maximum of 30 minutes.

6. Avoid Alcohol at Bedtime No doubt drinking some alcohol before bedtime will allow you to fall asleep easier, but you’ll tend to wake up in the middle of the night as the effects from the alcohol wear off.

Also, as your body digests the alcohol, it will begin to suffer from the results of withdrawal. This often will cause both nighttime awakenings and even nightmares for some people.

Hence, avoid drinking alcohol at (or just before) bedtime.

Avoid eating at least two hours before going to bed.

Give your body time to digest your food.

Allowing your body to digest or at least start to digest your food long before you go to bed will allow it to rest while you sleep, instead of churning away at your food.

For additional information on healthy eating, and for other tips on beauty, health, fitness, romance and more, go to www.urbanewomen.com

L13

STRONGER, BRIGHTER, FITTER. eforea spa at Hilton Pattaya

fairness-fitness-finery

please dial 038 253 000 for inquiries and reservations

Vol. 01 No. 07 | April 1-15 2013

To Botox Or Not To Botox?

By Di Barker

How Is Intradermal Botox Different?

Everyone knows about Botox, the line-erasing, complexion-enhancing treatment. However, there is a new Botox buzz around and it is known as Intradermal-Botox. The injections are not into the muscles responsible for facial expressions but into the erector pili--the fine muscles in the skin that control pore size. These muscles are literally within the skin, hence the name. They are the ones that make your hair stand on end or cause goose bumps. This specific procedure is gaining favour for its oil-inhibiting, pore-reducing suppressant that is often the result

of living in a tropical climate.

Apparently, botulism toxin is just as good as a quick fix for those who suffer from oily skin, enlarged pores, and acne scars as those seeking to tighten their face just a touch in order to ensure a fresher and younger appearance.

At Thonglor Clinic in Jomtien, the resident doctor is a professional injector qualified to administer this treatment. He remarked that many of his patients come from overseas for this treatment and that although the procedure has been around for a while it is only recently that it has started to pick up momentum. The same vials used to freeze drooping facial muscles

are injected into the top of the skin as a means of controlling the oil-producing sebaceous glands and tightening the tiny surface muscles that can lead to visible pores. He commented that his patients typically see results in about two weeks, but that he has had some people tell him that they saw improvements within a couple of days, adding that effects last for about four to six months.

Smaller pores result in a smaller skin surface area, thus stretching the skin more over the face, which results in a face lift effect.

If you have oily skin, acne or fine lines and wrinkles on your face and neck, Intradermal-Botox is an effective, fast-acting treatment that may be a great solution for you. If you wish to learn more about this cutting-edge technique–or if you want to schedule a consultation, contact Thonglor Clinic, Jomtien on (038) 252 055, and you’ll be taking the first step toward younger, healthier looking skin.

Thonglor Clinic Jomtien Is located on Thappraya Road, about 100 meters before Bruno’s, coming from Pattaya.

Tel: (038) 252 055. Fax: (038) 252 056 www.thonglorclinic.com.

The most common cancers diagnosed in men are lung, prostate, and stomach. Among women the most commonly diagnosed are breast, cervix, and colorectal cancers.

Sneeze much? >>> If allergies or hay fever are making you sneeze--or causing a stuffy nose or itchy eyes, it may help to avoid second hand smoke, polluted air, and cats, dogs and dust mites.

Smoke from cigarettes and cigars can make your immune system pump out three times more histamines-the compounds responsible for those miserable allergy symptoms. So steer clear of smoky venues. Post a “No Smoking” sign on your front door, and when out, ask smokers not to light up. Do whatever you can to distance yourself from those polluting the air and their lungs.

Polluted air has similar negative effects. Fortunately, smog is not a problem in Pattaya, but if you sense that the air is impure, don’t exercise outdoors. In general, avoid being out when traffic is heavy.

Those who are sensitive to cat or dog dander or dust mites are advised to keep pets out of the bedroom. Shower several times daily and bathe your pet often. Cover bed pillows and mattresses with dust mite-proof cases, and use air cleaners around your home.

New test may detect Alzheimer’s sooner A new test for Alzheimer’s being developed by British researchers could lead to a diagnosis in the disease’s earliest stages. That means the dreaded disease could be caught decades earlier and perhaps be treated better or even avoided.

The new test, reported last month, looks for proteins linked to Alzheimer’s.

Researchers said it could be technically possible to distinguish between a healthy person and a person with Alzheimer’s. If the test is successful, it could determine what risk someone has of getting the disease—and could target the disease for those who are at risk.

Botox Fillers Laser Facelift Liposuction Breast augmentation FOR

PATTAYA TODAY READER

20% OFF

L14

diversions music / new release

by Jason Lipshutz

Justin Timberlake, 'The 20/20 Experience': Track-By-Track Review When "FutureSex/Lovesounds" was released in September 2006, Justin Timberlake was 25 years old, in a relationship with Cameron Diaz that was about to end, and for all intents and purposes, still a kid trying to prove himself and sustain the post-*N SYNC momentum of 2003's "Justified." Today, Timberlake is 32 years old, married to Jessica Biel, and has nothing left to prove. He has, in fact, been hounded for a half-decade to release new music, and not been frantically tossing out stopgap singles to remind the world of his presence. When Timberlake announced his return to music last January, pop fans prayed that "The 20/20 Experience" would feel a lot like "FutureSex/ Lovesounds"‌ but realistically, that could never have happened.

Timberlake is no longer where he was in September 2006, and as his latest album reflects the euphoria seeping out of every one of his immaculate, 32-year-old pores.

Six-and-a-half years after effectively conquering pop music with a highly sexual, fashionably futuristic album, Justin Timberlake has returned as a more relaxed version of himself, with a brand new palette of musical shades. Despite the reunion of Timberlake and "FutureSex/Lovesounds" producer Timbaland, "The 20/20 Experience" is not a sequel of that groundbreaking album as much as a document of growth, crystallized within the medium of classic R&B. The propulsive moans and aggressive come-ons of his 2006 smash single "Sexyback," for instance, have been traded for big-band brass, creeping bass and open-hearted professions of love on songs like "That Girl," "Mirrors" and "Tunnel Vision." Timberlake has always been a vocal force, but the main accomplishment of "The 20/20 Experience" is the expansion of Timberlake's vision: aside from Jay-Z's guest verse on snappy single "Suit and Tie," the album features no guests, and often allows its tracks to run past the seven-minute mark.

One of the year's most anticipated pop releases is also one of the genre's weirdest -- and most fully realized -- efforts in ages. There will be many people longing for the immediacy of songs like "My Love" and "Rock Your Body," but Timberlake has offered us something more complicated, although no less accessible.

Check out Billboard.com's extensive track-by-track breakdown of Justin Timberlake's long-awaited new album.

Vol. 01 No. 07 | April 1-15 2013

upcoming movies The Croods

The Host

The Last Exorcism Part II

Lead Actors Nicolas Cage, Ryan Reynolds, Emma Stone,

Catherine Keener

Lead Actors

Lead Actors

Director Genre

Release Date

Kirk De Micco, Chris Sanders Adventure l Animation l Comedy 4 April 2013

Surviving in a volcanic world is tough enough, but caveman Grug (Cage) gets a rude awakening when an earthquake forces him to leave behind the only world he knows. With his family in tow, he ventures out into the volatile world in search of a new home. The situation becomes even more complicated when Grug's family - but in particular his eldest daughter - become smitten with a nomad (Reynolds) they encounter on their dangerous journey.

This quirky, imaginative stranger's search for 'tomorrow' is at odds with Grug's reliance on the traditions of yesterday.

Saoirse Ronan, Diane Kruger, William Hurt

Director Andrew Niccol Genre Sci-Fi l Romance Release Date 4 April 2013

Director Ed Gass-Donnelly Genre Horror, Thriller Release Date 11 April 2013

Parasitic aliens called "souls" have invaded the Earth and have begun to possess the minds of humans. Melanie Stryder's body has been inhabited by a soul named Wanderer, but she refuses to fade away. Wanderer starts to see Melanie's memories, in which she sees her loved ones and eventually finds a connection with them, too. Melanie is trapped inside Wanderer's mind, speaking to her mentally, when both decide to set off and find Melanie's loved ones.

Continuing where the first film left off, Nell Sweetzer (Ashley Bell) is found alone and terrified in the woods. Back in the relative safety of civilization, Nell realizes that she can't remember entire portions of the previous months only that she is the last surviving member of her family. Just as Nell begins the difficult process of starting a new life, the evil force that once possessed her is back with other, unimaginably horrific plans that mean her last exorcism was just the beginning.

Canon EOS Rebel SL1 by gearpatrol.com

1. Pusher Love Girl 2. Suit and Tie feat. Jay-Z 3. Don't Hold The Wall 4. Strawberry Bubblegum 5. Tunnel Vision

6. Spaceship Coupe 7. That Girl 8. Let The Groove Get In 9. Mirrors 10. Blue Ocean Floor

Ashley Bell, Andrew Sensenig Judd Lormand

The latest addition to the EOS family takes the crown as the smallest and lightest DSLR on the market today. Though it weighs a mere 14 ounces, it still packs a 18-megapixel APS-C sensor as well as other goodies like a touch-enabled LCD screen — making it a perfect entry-level option for the nonmanhanded among us.

The world may be going more digital by the second, but live is still the big cash driver for the top 20 earners on our annual musician Moneymakers list.

L15

automotive

Vol. 01 No. 07 | April 1-15 2013

New Citroen DS3 Hot-Hatch So Chic Made In France

by John Lindgren Editor-in-chief: carsanook.com

A stylish, premium and practical two door hatchback - fun to drive too

The French? “Vive La Differance!” .

Oh, yes. They have their wines and their champagnes; Château Margaux, Romanée-Conti and Dom Pérignon. Les Fromages, their 350 different gourmet cheeses and the iconic French fashion marques: Chanel, Lacoste and Louis Vuitton. What about the French cars, les voitures? The PSA Peugeot Citroën group is the second largest Europe-based automaker after Volkswagen Group and the eight-largest in the world. Production in 2012 hit 2.97 million vehicles.

In 1955 at the Paris Motorshow the original DS, the shark-shaped goddess, aka “the most beautiful car of all time” was launched and reached a whooping 12,000 orders on the first day. While the name DS was a play on the French

word 'deesse', meaning goddess, the new Citroen DS3 badge stands for Different Spirit. The vehicle is still sporting the iconic double chevron logo conceptualized in 1919 by the founder, French industrialist André-Gustave Citroën (1878–1935). The new chevron logo carries the message: ‘Creative Technology’ Every Citroen passenger vehicle stands out. Always. Including the new Citroen DS3 So Chic which is a head turner from every angle. This chunky yet refined three-door hatchback comes with dynamic lines that spell out performance. Unique styling elements are the reversed 'shark fin' B-pillar that sweep toward the 'floating' roof and the cool LED vertical, daylight running lights

wrapped round the corners of the wide bumper. Check out the chunky wheel arches and the striking tail lights. The Pattaya Today demonstration unit is painted in attentiongrabbing two-tone sport metallic yellow and a white roof and white wing mirrors.

Plus cool 17-inch white wheels.

The DS3 is compact in size measuring 3.95 meter in length, 1.71 m width and 1.46 m high. Which makes it nippy to drive and park in the busy urban environment. The interior, the cabin boasts black leather upholstery.

Metallic white body-colour dashboard

panels. Rally-inspired front seats, a low driving position and a performance style flat bottomed leather steering wheel indicates this is a serious driving machine. The rear seats offer more head and leg room than the competition in Thailand consisting of the MINI and the Fiat 500. And cargo space that can swallow 285 liters. Safety features, six airbags, stability control and ABS, EBD, EBA as standard plus a five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating.

The drive: Two words, comfort and agility. I first notice the adjustable steering column with rake and reach for optimal driving position. Fire up the 1.6

consistent and light enough for all those u-turns and reverse maneuvers.

Handling and balance including stopping is reassuring thanks ABS, EBD, EBA and the McPhearson struts in the front.

During a short test drive in Bangkok downtown Vipahavee-Rangsit highway and Bagna-Trat motorway. We managed a top speed 170 kph. No worries, very steady. This compact Citroen So Chic model impressed me in all aspects.

Acceleration, torque, braking, lane switching, tight u-turns and parking.

When did I last enjoy so much driving a French car? – Not even the Peugeot 206 CC (coupe convertible) was as much fun to drive as the DS3 hatchback loaded with with what the Citroen engineers call: Créative Technologie’.

Vive La difference!

Verdict: The DS3 model, So Chic has a compact classy cabin and sporty cockpit and is well equipped. A stylish, spacious, fun to drive French hatchback.

It will certainly match your Louis Vuitton loafers, LV suitcase and Lacoste polo shirt. Tres Chic!

DS3 So Chic

liter, petrol engine mated to a 4-speed automatic with ample smooth power.

The front wheel drive enables tight cornering. The steering feel is precise,

Engine: 1.6 liter Horse power: 120 Torque: 160 Nm Top speed: 190 kph Fuel consumption: 16.0 kpl (combined) Price: 1,599,000 baht www.citroen.co.th

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

GMs Outlook: “Pattaya has had a very exciting past but the best is yet to come.�

- Sittidej Rochanavibhata

General Manager Cape Dara Resort

page P8/32 >> Volume 2

Issue 06 1-15 April 2013

Subaru opens Pattaya showroom page P2/26

What's Inside: Seven Seas approved Recently receiving EIA approval, construction was set to begin three months ahead of schedule.

page P3/27

http://pattayatoday.net/newspaper/property-business/

Classifieds

Expat Money Corner

Location Spotlight

Holiday Leisure Parks - a 'Bull' Market'

A look at up-andcoming residential areas in and around Pattaya

What's the Difference?

See us online at www.classifieds. pattayatoday.net

page P4/28

page P5/29

page P6/30

page P10/34

P2 / 26

Advertorial Sontaya Kunplume, minister of culture, was on hand for the grand opening of Showroom Subaru Pattaya. Ronakit Ekasingh, Pattaya deputy mayor, also joined the event along with Aphichai Thamsirarak, general manager of Motor Image Subaru (Thailand) Co. Ltd, and Wanchai Chelin, chief executive officer of Submahasarn Auto Company Limited.

Chonburi's first official Subura showroom is at 62/1 Moo 8, Sukhumvit Road.

(Tel 038-241552, 038 241 339)

Volume 2 Issue 06 1-15 April 2013

P3 / 27

Volume 2 Issue 06 1-15 April 2013

Business News

Seven Seas Condo Centara to open third Resort approved Maldives resort

A blessing ceremony marked the start of construction of Seven Seas Condo Resort, Jomtien, according to Universal Group Thailand. Introduced last October, Seven Seas have sold 560 units to locals and expats. Recently receiving Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval, construction of this 15-rai development was set to begin three months ahead of schedule. It will comprise eight low-rise buildings, a 6,000-sqm swimming pool with seven themed islands as well as a cave pool, volcano slide, shaded cabanas and sun lounge areas, submerged ship with watersides and fountains, spa pool and a child's playground. Prices start at 999,000 baht.

Centara Hotels & Resorts will open its third resort in the Maldives next year following the signing of a management contract with RPI Private Ltd, according to Thirayuth Chirathivat, chief executive officer of Centara Hotels & Resorts. Centara Hudhufushi Resort & Spa is currently being planned as a US $36 million, four-star resort with about 110 rooms.

Centara opened its first resort in the Maldives, Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives, in late 2009. The second resort, Centara RasFushi Resort & Spa Maldives, opens this month. “Our international presence has grown extremely strongly during the past few years, and the Maldives has been a major success for us,� says Chris Bailey, Centara senior vice president for sales and marketing.

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Volume 2 Issue 06 1-15 April 2013

Legal & Expat Money LEGAL CORNER Mr. Ponthep Werachon Thai Solicitor

Mrs.Darunee Werachon Thai Solicitor & Accountant

WERACHON LAW OFFICE

315/304, Moo 12 Theppasit Road (Soi 12) Nongprue,Banglamung, Pattaya City Chonburi 20260 Kingdom of Thailand Tel: (038) 304 084, (038) 251 533 Fax: (038) 304 027 Mobile: 081 423 4255, 089 889 6483 Website: www.thaisolicitor.com, e-mail: thai@werachonlawyers.com

Expat Money Corner

by Tim Whiteley

Holiday Leisure Parks – a ‘Bull’ Market In fund managers’ on-going attempts to cherry pick sectors that will offer consistent, worthwhile returns to investors over the recent turbulent years, funds have been set up to specifically avoid the machinations of the worlds’ stock markets in arenas that enjoy a very strong demand curve, despite the economic conditions. Although stock markets have rallied in recent months, the fact is that only very recently have they surpassed 2007 levels. Simply put, had your

How to make a last will and testament under Thai law Continued from last Issue

Public Documented Will A will may be made by a public document, that is to say : 1) The testator must declare to the district chief before at least two other persons as witnesses present at the same time what dispositions the testator wishes to be included in the will 2) The district chief must note down such declaration of the testator and read it to the latter and to the witnesses 3) The testator and the witnesses must sign their names after having ascertained that the statement noted down by the district chief corresponds with the declaration made by the testator 4) The statement noted down by the district chief shall be dated and signed by official who shall certify under his hand and seal that the will has been made in compliance with (1) to (3) above No erasure, addition or other alteration in such will is valid unless signed by the testator, the witnesses and the district chief.

Will in Secret Document The will can be made by a secret document by the closed up document with the testator’s signature across the closure. The closed document must be produced before the district chief and at least two witnesses.

Verbalized Will A will may be verbalized in case the testator is going to die causing him not able to make the will by other ways. There must be at least two witnesses who are required to report promptly to the district chief to notify the date and details of the will. The district chief will note down and ask the witnesses to sign.

The Executor of Estate The testator may appoint the executor of estate, which can be

the heir or any third parties. The executor of estate will compile the estate to allocate to the legatees.

Trustee The concept of trustee is not acceptable by Thai laws. However, to safeguard the interest of minor heirs, you may set forth a condition to prohibit the sale or disposal of real estate until your heirs become major at the ages of 20 years old, or even appoint a controller of estate, which can be either individual or corporate to look after until your minor heir becomes major.

Probate of Will In Thailand, there is no outof-court system to probate the will instead of going to the judicial process. However, in our experience, we have always found some banks agree to pay to the legatee who have a clear and precise will and is legally reliable by local notarization.

The court process to recognize the will, which is clear, precise and legally reliable, will be one-stop.

The petition to probate the will is a non-contentious process unless there is a contest by a third party. If there is no contestation, the court will verify the authenticity and form of the will especially witnesses who will have to testify in court for the mental and voluntary status of the testator. If case the testator and legatees are foreigner, the identity must be checked by their passport.

Contestation of the Will The will may be contested by the statutory heirs who are disappointed by the will. The contestation must be made within one year from the date of awareness. In case of contestation, the probate process will become contentious whereby the litigants will have to prove the facts they assert. The contestation

is always on the mental and voluntary status.

It is advisable to make the will with the medical practitioner and psychiatrist or shrink who will make the affidavit with the video or photos showing that the testator was of sound mind without fraud or duress.

The qualified notary public should be also the witness for the execution of the will.

The court will have a judgment in your favor or dismiss the petition. If the judgment is in your favor, you may show to the bank or land office to hand over money or transfer the land and house to you.

If you are foreigner, you have to seek a permission from the Minister of Interior to hold the land not more than one rai (please see the details in the Land Code).

Jurisdiction of the Will The testator should seek the proper advice from the local solicitor about the jurisdiction of the will. Each country has her own unique laws and requirement. The legal booby traps under Thai law should be carefully verified.

Language of the Will The will can be made in any language. If it is made in Thai and another language, the Thai version will be prevailing.

The English language with the Thai translation is widely acceptable by Thai courts.

Please note that a will is a juristic act, which will be effective after the death of the testator who will have no chance to be aware if it is good or bad. It is advisable to study and discuss further details in any specific issues with competent legal counsel to obtain first hand information.

The testator may any time revoke his will wholly or partly by a new will

money been linked to the main indices all that time, only now would you have got your original investment back, plus a little extra, with nothing there for inflation. Six years is a long time to wait for your holdings to claw back their original paper value.

One interesting sector that’s been attracting attention is the holiday leisure park market. Apart from the fact that it’s on a growth path, a significant number of UK Local Authority Pension Funds have invested in such funds, along with many big UK corporate household names. Consequently, we have looked into this area in depth.

In the volatile financial world we all now find ourselves, it is not often we’ve been able to identify a particular fund that has demonstrated the business acumen required to deliver good investment performance throughout the turbulence. The UK leisure park business is currently a ₤3 billion per annum business.

The purchase/rental of prime sites and significantly upgrading the facilities is one part of the equation. ‘Camp’ sites are being replaced with modern, fixed units and amenities, resulting in both increased capital values and higher Income streams.

The institutional funding has allowed their operation to put in place an impressive development and acquisition schedule over the coming years, which is likely to ensure continuing performance, in excess of the stated target returns of 8-12 percent.

Keep in mind, there is no correlation between this fund’s strong performance of 2.40 percent last month, 6.3 percent over three months and the stock markets. Once again, we see the scenario that has proved so successful in recent times: a dominant position in a specific sector that’s enjoying very strong demand, with continually rising turnover/income, away from the vagaries of the markets.

As with all property linked funds, there is always the question of liquidity. The holding of real assets, by its very nature, means they cannot be disposed of overnight. Nonetheless, the liquidity level maintained in this fund is above the industry norm, whilst still providing a very worthwhile return. Despite the lingering malaise in some of the developed economies, there is this ‘bull’ period in the UK leisure holiday park market which is generating substantial profits. Nonetheless, it will not carry on at this level indefinitely.

The industry experts forecast a 10-year window in which the UK’s domestic leisure parks will be brought up to world class standards. In the meantime, there could well be an opportunity to reap rewards from this increasingly successful business.

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

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

IFA International does NOT provide discretionary portfolio management, securities advice, forex trading, or local brokerage / insurance products. The services that IFA International Group provides are for international investors and expatriates only and are not applicable to local nationals. This is NOT a solicitation to sell or market securities. Questions to the author can be directed to: timwhiteley@ifainternationalgroup.com

P5 / 29

Volume 2 Issue 06 1-15 April 2013

Property

Location Spotlight

by Guy Van Harten BSc (Hons)

A look at up-and-coming residential areas in and around Pattaya

Everyone familiar with development in Pattaya is well-aware of the startling pace of growth in and amongst the heart of the city and other central areas such as Naklua, Pratumnak and Jomtien. Almost every week a new development is launched; whether a sprawling resort or towering high-rise, the vast majority are situated in the aforementioned locations. Although there has always been a niche market for properties in Pattaya’s outlying regions, it has now become increasingly ‘mainstream’ for residents and investors alike to seek out opportunities in less traditional areas. This month, we will look at several of the most popular suburban destinations and provide insight into their progressive popularity.

Na Jomtien: Na Jomtien is located due south of Jomtien, and is an area which has begun to flourish dramatically within the last year or so.

Well-established landmarks such as Ambassador City, Ocean Marina, Phoenix Golf and Ban Amphur beach have traditionally attracted

people looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of Pattaya. Tulip Group have helped to shine the spotlight on this area through the launch of their super-luxury project, Centara Grand Residence, attracting clients to some of the best and most tranquil beaches in Pattaya while still enjoying easy access to the heart of Pattaya City. As well as residential projects, there has also been a large influx of commercial ventures to the area – including the brand new and popular shopping village, Mimosa.

Bang Saray: Bang Saray lies some 25 kilometers south of central Pattaya. It is a seaside town which is becoming increasingly fashionable with property buyers looking for a holiday home and a relaxing beachfront lifestyle. With its white sandy beaches, clear water and great sea and mountain views, Bang Saray offers peace and tranquillity at an affordable price; prospective clients can find quality real estate in this area at prices below those of the more established beachfront

locales of Pattaya. There has been a large upsurge of interest in this area in recent years, with two huge theme parks, Cartoon Network Water Park and Ramayana Water Park set to open in 2013 and 2014 respectively. Each park will be looking to attract between 500,000 and 1,000,000 visitors to their sites every year, which will undoubtedly continue to raise interest in the immediate surroundings.

Silverlake: Silverlake is located approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Pattaya, and covers a vast swathe of lush mountainside land. The main attraction there is the Silverlake Vineyard, which is situated on 1,200 rai and is the only vineyard in the eastern region of Thailand. The other landmark of interest in this area is Khao Chee Chan or Buddha Mountain, which is a tall cliff face with a huge Buddha image carved into the rock. This is a spectacular location which is breath-taking in its beauty; a cluster of quaint Tuscan buildings, colourful flowers with the placid waters of the lake in

the background. Both the winery and the area itself have developed tremendously in recent years, playing host to a variety of events including music and arts festivals, as well as Burapha bike week in 2013.

The development of Silverlake is set to continue apace and is seen by many in the industry as an excellent medium-to-long-term investment location.

Mabprachan Lake: Mabprachan Lake is different from the other areas I have highlighted as it lies due east of Pattaya, not south. Due to the growth of Pattaya City as well as the new Highway 7, this area has come to be considered a lot more central than it has been previously. However, I still felt it worthy to include it on this list as many people are not fully aware of this spectacular setting and the quality development taking place.

This area is hugely popular with retirees, long-term residents and expatriate families due to its close proximity to international schools, the main Bangkok highway which links the industrial zones of the Eastern Seaboard and provides the main access route to most of the international standard golf courses around Pattaya (of which there are many).

Properties in this area predominantly consist of villas, either in gated communities or private land plots.

This area is home to renowned villa developer BravoThai, developers of The Vineyard Phases I, II and III as well as the newly-launched Amaya Hill development. The Mabprachan Lake area is a green zone and thus protected from overdevelopment, providing a perfect setting for buyers looking for a genuine suburban lifestyle in the tropics with excellent access and local infrastructure already in place.

P6 / 30

Volume 2 Issue 06 1-15 April 2013

Property

What’s the Difference?

I recently was reading an article by a good friend, Alex Shlaen of Singapore, who is a colleague and fellow writer for the Property Report Asia magazine. The article, titled, ‘The Heat is On’, was about how the Hong Kong and Singapore governments are regulating and guiding their great cities in very successful and profitable directions.

Alex noted, “The Hong Kong government is planning to build up a land reserve by reclamation, as well as to speed-up public and private housing development, increasing their housing supply by 18 percent over the next five years.”

He went on to mention, “Sin-

gapore is preparing for a population increase of 30 percent by 2030” and “Successive Singaporean governments had made the local population one of the richest in the world.”

Reading about these two mega cities in our very own Southeast Asian region made me think, and I asked myself, “What’s the difference? What’s the difference between Singapore and Hong Kong and our own Eastern Seaboard/ Pattaya?”

Obviously, Pattaya is a former fishing village that is blossoming rapidly into a bone fide city with metropolitan intentions and super city visions for its legions of tourists that grow in number each

Alex Shlaen

by Clayton Wade Managing Director

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

and every year; but both Hong Kong and Singapore had very humble beginnings themselves and not all that long ago either.

Then it struck me that the difference between Singapore and Hong Kong and our region is well organized government bodies and good and proper governance.

Yes, the Eastern Seaboard is growing very fast, and yes we are new at the game, but please… do you think that Hong Kong and Singapore have the level of financial and personal risk that is involved with the real estate industry that we have?

Don’t get me wrong; this is not merely a matter of corruption for I am sure those two great cities have their share of ‘special economics’, but what they do have that we may not have is experienced governments and experienced government officials.

Aside from making that ‘extra money’, Hong Kong and Singapore officials know what it takes to organize and regulate their real estate industries toward well managed success instead of a haphazard ‘try anything, do anything and then fix it when it breaks down’ mentality, which is exactly what we have seen in the past here.

Notice I said ‘in the past’, as I thought that I should do a little research and investigate what our current Pattaya and Eastern Seaboard governing bodies are doing proactively to protect the interests of developers, laborers, materials suppliers and--most importantly-end users or consumers.

Has there been any governmental speculation on just how our condominium construction industry is doing and in what direction it is going?

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

Clayton Wade has been running Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd., with his wife, Khun Supap, for more than 17 years. He himself has been in the real estate industry going on 27 years, having started his career in the United States where he was licensed and practiced both real estate sales and property management in Seattle, Washington.

Clayton personally was responsible

Well, back in November 2012, Bangkok and the Eastern Seaboard were introducing so many new construction projects and so quickly that ‘streamline’ was the buzzword of the day.

In fact, it was that month that developers were complaining so much that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) license approval process under rules and regulations current at that time were vague, giving too much influence to a committee whose judgments were felt to be too subjective.

So much so that no condominium unit could be transferred to any purchaser if the project did not pass an EIA investigation, which was greatly affected by rules backed by groups of residents whose neighborhoods had been endangered by the skyrocketing growth of condo blocks along with their partnering environmentalists.

It was at that time that an amendment to the EIA rules was proposed by Santi Boonprakub, secretary-general of the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) and if that amendment was adopted, it was speculated that all complaints would simply disappear.

Developers would no longer be subjected to the judgments of the EIA committee as long as they could meet a set of criteria that was clearly specified and standardized.

The EIA agency has over the past several years been reviewing about 30-50 EIA reports a year, in line with these past several years and the ‘boom time’ mentality produced by the increasing demand for high-rise condominiums.

But we must now ask ourselves if ‘streamline’ is the buzzword of today’s new condominium construction market or if ‘deadline’ is more appropriate.

That’s deadline in that we may be heading into a situation that is not healthy for the environment or more specifically an inability to protect the interests of the developers, laborers and materials suppliers long term and most

for bringing in the first 53 General Motors executives for the start-up phase of Thailand’s General Motors manufacturing facility and had a three-year exclusive with the company.

Following that experience, he placed most of the start-up executives for the Eastern Seaboard’s BMW manufacturing facility.

Clayton Wade is a Council Member with the Gerson Lehrman Group, the New York based international research and consulting firm, and has been a national panel judge with the Thailand Property Awards for many years.

The American-born entrepreneur is

importantly the end user or consumer today!

An environmental impact assessment has been defined as “A method of analysis that attempts to predict the likely repercussions of proposed property development on the social and physical environment of the surrounding area and (if negative impacts are predicted) to propose alternative methods of carrying out the project that might help to prevent or mitigate the negative impacts”.

Notice the term ‘social impact’ as this is just as important and critical as the physical impact and one very important property development issue that could affect the current momentum of new condominium construction on the Eastern Seaboard.

As are both Hong Kong and Singapore, Thailand’s Pattaya and Eastern Seaboard also are putting on the breaks as acquiring Environmental Impact Assessment approval is currently far from being streamlined and in fact is getting more difficult by the day, including of course the ‘special economics’ at Pattaya City Hall.

Don’t forget, it was towards the end of the last property boom, the ‘mini boom’ of 2003 to 2007 in which according to Skyscrapercity.com on Sept. 28, 2011, the infamous 91 story Ocean 1 Tower Condominium failed to get approved by EIA eight times, and it does appear that we are already seeing the agency and the new condominium construction market as a whole quickly moving into a ‘checks and balances’ mode.

Yes, Pattaya is a former fishing village and along with its impressive growth, metropolitan intentions and super city visions, it just might be learning from its Hong Kong and Singapore neighbors that a well-organized government body and good and proper governance is the answer for controlling property development here on the Eastern Seaboard.

So maybe, just maybe, the differences between our Hong Kong and Singapore neighbors are even less than one might think.

known throughout the Asia-Pacific region for his writing, public speaking and television presentations. His many accomplishments in promoting real estate on Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard include having been a guest speaker with several of Thailand’s top political and business figures on CNBC’s Managing Asia.

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

P8 / 32

Volume 2 Issue 06 1-15 April 2013

GMs Outlook

Closer to the stars at Cape Dara Resort

GM Sittidej Rochanavibhata plans the future

by Barry Kenyon

Photo MIKE PEREZ

With unrivaled panoramic sea views, five star luxury awaits the guests at the seafront Cape Dara Resort. Situated in a quiet residential district of north Pattaya, only a stroll from Beach Road, the hotel stands a magisterial 26 storeys amid lush, tropical surroundings which include its own beach.

Driving to the exotic and expansive entrance, you are struck by the tranquility of a full developed seaside retreat which is the property of the local Mekavarakul family. Yet the remarkable thing is that you are just minutes from the pulsating centre of one of the world’s top beach destinations for business and leisure.

It is no coincidence that “dara” means “star” in Thai because the 264 guest rooms, suites and villa compounds seem to bring the visitor closer to the heavenly bodies. Cape Dara is the only resort in the Wong Amart area in which every room features exhilarating glimpses in every direction, including open-sky views across Pattaya and its majestic bay.

Newly appointed general manager Sittidej Rachanavibhata – Dun for short – a youthful-looking career specialist who represents the new generation of Thais leading international hotels in Asia and beyond, has held three previous GM posts: Ibis Bangkok (Sathorn), All Seasons Bangkok (Victory Monument) and Glacier Hotel (Khonkaen).

“As Pattaya continues to grow in size and popularity, north Pattaya is of prime importance as the city slowly achieves its aim of becoming the Thai Riviera,” says Sittidej. “Cape Dara offers an upscale luxury-stay experience through its unique architecture and thrilling panoramas.

We pride ourselves on being truly world-class in the contemporary hotel industry.”

Cape Dara Resort reflects the changing tourist market which is Thailand today. Although Germans and Austrians have long been associated with north Pattaya and still maintain a strong presence there, there are now growing numbers of Chinese visitors (including Hong

P9 / 33

Volume 2 Issue 06 1-15 April 2013

GMs Outlook Kong and Taiwan) as well as Koreans, Japanese and other growing market segments. This is very plain to see at Cape Dara Resort’s expansive entrance where the lobby and its world-famous infinity swimming pool present a buzzing and friendly mix of cosmopolitan Pattaya as it exists today: Europeans, Americans and Asians mingling together.

The facilities are world-class too. After an easy day at the Twinkle or beach-side Walala pool swim-up bars, many guests sample the breathtaking views of the 24th floor Sphere lounge overlooking the majestic sea and horizon.

The open-air panoramic Radius restaurant offers all-day-dining and also hosts the fabulous buffets which are a hallmark of the cuisine at Cape Dara Resort. Sweet desserts and snacks are available at the lobby-side Mellow Bakery Cafe.

Also to be noted is the new Chinese era Ming Xing restaurant located on the third floor. Serving authentic Cantonese Chinese cuisine with varied seating, including banqueting and curved wall niches, signature dishes include deep-fried prawns with mayonnaise salad and wok-fried Hong Kong style beef steak. The noodle lunches, offering 24 different varieties plus salads

“

and desserts, and the Chinese set dinners have attracted a great deal of favorable media attention and are remarkably good value for money.

Resort facilities and amenities include a luxury spa, fully equipped fitness centre, two swimming pools and a kids’ club with a featured programme of guided activities.

Older children and adults can choose from a daily schedule of beach-side and aquatic fun. The resort also has its own high-tech karaoke lounge. The concierge can help with requests to visit the many tourist attractions of Pattaya and the eastern seaboard including the spectacular choice of sports activities for which the area is already famous.

A growing part of Cape Dara’s role is to provide MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) facilities. It offers a choice of combinable convention and meeting rooms, making it attractive to professional planners, corporate meeting organizers or those wishing to prepare a significant social event including product launching or weddings or upscale parties.

At 552 square metres surface, the Vela grand ballroom is the largest venue on site and is capable of accommodating 700 people. All the meeting rooms can be equipped

Pattaya has had a very exciting past but the best is yet the come

”

with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and free wifi internet. Recent corporate guests have included BP Castrol and LG Electric.

When asked to comment what is the key to running a successful business enterprise such as Cape Dara, Sittidej says, “Absolutely no doubt about that, it’s making sure the

customer’s needs and expectations are paramount. Indeed, I would go further and say that our aim is to exceed those very expectations. One of the key indicators is the number of our guests who are repeat business. My staff and I feel confident when we see our visitors coming back every year or even every month in some cases.”

Cape Dara Resort is in an excellent position to benefit from

Pattaya’s phenomenal growth which shows no sign of slackening.

The hotel has a unique position and complements the line-up of exclusive international hotels in the most elegant part of north Pattaya which retains its lush tropical feel with acres of unspoilt greenery adjacent to the Resort. As Sittidej puts it, “Welcome to Cape Dara Resort where you are closer to the stars.” Indeed you are.

10 ZZ/34

Classified

1 - 15 April 2013

Articles for Sale

(ptmas-e0009)Mobility Scooters -- Free test ride at your home! Portable mobility scooters, latest models. ull s e r v i c e f r o m T h a i l a n d ’s mobility scooter specialist.

Call 081 875 0860 or 02 964 8405-07, www.ecobrand. net, info@ecobrand.net for prices and brochures. Contact us now for your free test ride at your home!

Boats/Yachts

Fiber Glass 6 Metre Speedboat with Mercury Force 120 HP Outboard Motor, seats 6 people, only 2 years old, complete with trailer and all papers for transfer. Real bargain 390,000 baht. Call 087 139 1539.

Business Opportunities

(ptm-wm1412)STORE OR OFFICE FOR RENT JOMTIEN BEACH SOI 4 – 150m to beach. 10,000 baht monthly. 2 A/C, 1 bathroom with shower. Call 080 821 8326 (ptmpt-bo00)For Sale or Lease. 23 Nice Two Room Apar tments located in 3 buildings on a one rai land parcel in a very central location south Pattaya. Within 5 min walking distance to walking street,however still a quiet and secure area.For more info contact 081 9099098, No agents please Commercial Shop house – Foreign Name: at Jomtien Plaza Condotel, 3 Story 175 SQM turn-key opportunity, Sale Price: 6,990,000 THB (Freehold) please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com Guest House/Coffee Shop Soi Buakhao: 6 rooms Lease: 3+3 Rent: 30,000 Baht/Month.

19% cash return annually SALE PRICE: 2,500,000 THB please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com Guest House/Pub Dongtan Beach: 4 rooms Lease: 3+3 Rent: 21,000 Baht/Month.

Fully occupied SALE PRICE: 1,500,000 THB please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com BEACHFRONT RESTAURANT – Na Jomtien - This has to be the best beach front business opportunity available.

A 3 storey single unit bar and restaurant right by the beautiful Na Jomtien Beach with seating for 22-24 persons, commercial

kitchen, two bedroom accommodation, a roof top terrace which offers scenic views over the beach and the ground floor patio looking directly over the beach. The business is only for sale due to the owners ill health.

For sale leasehold at only 750,000 Bt with rent 15,000 Baht per month and NO key money!! Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com APARTMENT BUILDING - Easy to r un business opportunity. This new three storey 21 room apartment building in a central location, not far from Siam Country Club Road, has been built to European standards with 3 one bedroom apartments and 18 studio apartments all with spacious bathrooms and balconies, most are furnished and have AC units fitted, ideal for long stay expats and holiday lets. Included in the sales price is an adjoining plot of land approx. 450sqm that can be used to extend the building and add a communal pool or to build a private villa. The building has its own water bore and a water filtration system is in place. Total land area 1,465 sqm. For Sale: 12.5m Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com GUESTHOUSE & BAR Ideally located profitable 10 room guesthouse and bar. Located in a busy Soi in Central Jomtien and close to the beach is this 3 unit building with the ground floor running as a bar with pool table, music system and large flat screen TV. There is ample room to install a kitchen to offer breakfasts and food to the guests and customers, thus increasing the profits further. The upper floors contain 10 renovated and fully furnished guest rooms, a store room and maids room. An established business. For Sale: Leasehold 3.3m Bt, monthly rent 30,000 Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-property.com

Education & Training

Learn Fruit and Vegetables Carving from a Professional teacher with more than 18 years experience. For inquiries contact Yui at tel no. 086 320 9569 and/or 085 238 5453 or email at yuibua@hotmail. co.th

(pta-tk0008)Do you want to Study Thai Language or Thai Culture in Fun & Easy Way? Come to Thankful Knowledge Learning Center. Learn with the native professional teachers.

Affordable price & friendly environment call 038 373 175 or 038 416 493. We speak Thai, English, German&Duetsch.

Apartment for Rent

(ptmaf-r0712)AROMDEE APARTMENTS, quiet, clean, well maintained, with European management. Fan/AC rooms for rent start from 3,800 baht monthly. Free Wi-Fi, CableTV, Gym, and Car park. Inside Minimart, breakfast dishes, coffee bar/bar, 24 hr laundry, and CCTV security coverage.

Within walking distance of Big C, Tesco Lotus, and BKK Bus Station North Pattaya.

Phone Thai/Eng.: 082-3043907, Phone Norwegian/ Eng.: 087-329-0300, Office/ Fax: 038-370-861 Web: www. aromdeeapartments.com Email: aromdeeapartment@ hotmail.com

House for Sale

A property in Pattaya with the special touch of Thousand and One Nights! 3 Bedrooms; all of them include a bath and a dressing room. Spacious parlor and kitchen, beautiful swimming pool, equipment room and car por t for 2 passenger cars. The staff/ guesthouse includes 3 rooms and 2 showers, as well as an outdoor kitchen. To top off this beautiful property, there is a generously proportioned pavilion with an awesome view overlooking a pond. This Garden of Eden is available for 760,000 USD. A dream estate for people who can afford it. Contact: rw-treuhand@ bluewin.ch Pool Villa For Sale – North East Pattaya - Spacious individually designed 257 sqm family single storey pool villa offering the best value for money in the city and ideally located by the Route 36. The European style property offers 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, European kitchen with oven, hob and hood, office, open plan lounge and dining area, TV room, laundr y room, private pool in 1,040 sqm landscaped gardens, detached en-suite maids room, covered car parking. Price:6.9m Bt.Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property.com. www.pattaya-jomtien-property. com Pool Villa For Sale – East Jomtien. T he seller has reduced the price from 7.95m Bt for a quick ‘no hassle’ sale. Single storey 185 sqm villa in a quiet secluded small development on land plot 420 sqm, stylishly finished and furnished throughout, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, European kitchen, living room, dining area, covered terrace, sun deck, lagoon style private pool, covered parking, 24/7 security, less than a 5 minute drive to Sukhumvit Road.

Sale Price: REDUCED to 5.95m Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com

House For Sale – Bang Sarey - Nicely designed new single storey house, Living area 132sqm, Land area 400sqm, one of two side by side, in this popular area of Bang Saray.

The properties are built to European standards offering 2 - 3 bedrooms, 2 luxury bathrooms, European kitchens with ovens, spacious living room, dining area, patio terrace, car parking and landscaped gardens. Really great value for money and less than 5 minutes to the beautiful beach, shops, restaurants, bars and 20 minutes from Jomtien. Price: 2.95m Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com House For Sale – East Pattaya - Two storey semidetached houses, living area 120sqm, land area 160sqm in a very quiet secure development just a 5 minute drive from Sukhumvit Road. Very spacious, well furnished, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, living room, dining area, European kitchen with oven, car parking, clubhouse, communal pool and 24/7 security. The seller has in total six of these rental properties, some with tenants in place, that are let for between 18,000 Bt and 20,000 Bt per month on medium to long term leases bringing in a return of almost 8%. They can be purchased individually or all six houses together, only for sale because of the owners continued ill health. Prices From: 1.99m Bt each. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com House For Sale – Jomtien - Ideally located in Central Jomtien fully furnished single storey 130sm house, land 58 Tw, offering 3 bedroom, 2 luxury bathrooms, European kitchen, living room, dining area, covered parking, small patio, 24/7 security, short stroll to restaurants, shops, bars, taxis and 1km to the beach.Price: 5.4m Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Charming Tropical Bangsarey Home! Selling Price 12.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 160 Sqm/183 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR2799) Beautiful Home in Jomtien Yacht Club!! Selling Price 29 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/4+1 Bathrooms, 390 Sqm/212 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5846)

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 374535

HOUSES FOR SALE

Amazing Pratamnak Luxury Estate! Selling Price 60 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 634 Sqm/330 TLW. Oriental Thai House in Jomtien Location! Selling Price 15.9 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 450 Sqm/155 TLW. Beautiful Balinese Style Estate Home with large swimming pool! Selling Price 12 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 362 TLW/280 Sqm. Great Home in the very popular Siam Royal View!

Selling Price 29.9 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/360 Sqm. Great Private Estate Home! Selling Price 14.9 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 375 Sqm/500 TLW. Stunning House at Santa Maria For Sale! Selling Price 37.5 Million Baht, 4+2 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 900 Sqm/650 TLW. This is an exceptional home built with the best of materials furnished with only the best.

Great Bungalow with wonderful interior décor on Pratamnak Hill! Selling Price 11.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 170 Sqm/100 TLW. Charming Tropical Bangsarey Home! Selling Price 12.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 160 Sqm/183 TLW.

HOUSES FOR RENT

Gorgeous Seaview from Bang Sarey Hills! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 470 Sqm/600 TLW. Fantastic Home in the Mabprachan Lake Area! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 5 Bedrooms/3+1 Bathrooms, 360 Sqm/400 TLW. Stunning and Gorgeous Home for Rent! Rental Price 90,000 Baht/Month, 3+1 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/120 TLW. Beachfront Villa with Impressive Interior Design! Rental Price 130,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 350 Sqm/400 TLW. Exclusive Home in Family Friendly Village! Rental Price 110,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4+1 Bathrooms, 500 Sqm/400 TLW. Resort Living just 50 meters from the Beach in Jomtien! Rental Price 75,000 Baht / Month, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/25 TLW. Fantastic Home in Great Developement! Rental Price 110,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 440 Sqm/300 TLW. Impressive Lakeside Estate Home! Rental Price 95,000 Baht/Month, 5 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 650 Sqm/600 TLW. This is an absolutely fantastic family home right on a lake next to Phoenix Golf Club and in the country just minutes from town.

CONDOS FOR SALE

Wonderfully Designed Luxury Apartment! Selling Price 10.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 134 Sqm. Beautiful Apartment with Sea Views! Selling Price 12.6 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 135 Sqm. Foreigner Ownership in Jomtien’s La Royale! Selling Price 11.95 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 148 Sqm. Great Sea Views and In Town Location! Selling Price 29.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 268 Sqm. Great Jomtien Beach Area Apartment! Selling Price 3.5 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/2 Bathrooms, 80 Sqm. Wongamat Bay Sea View Apartment....This Month Huge Reduction! Selling Price is 13.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 210 Sqm. Best priced Apartment in Na Jomtien’s Pine Shore Condo! Selling Price is 8 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 91 Sqm. Fabulous and Low Priced Apartment at Ocean Marina!

Selling Price 19 Million Baht, 4 Bedroom/4 Bathroom, 274 Sqm. Sea, Sunset and Island Views at Ocean Marina! Selling Price 17.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/3 Bathroom. 177 Sqm.

CONDOS FOR RENT

Beachfront Life Style for Rent! Rental Price is 85,000 Baht/ Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 266 Sqm. Modern Designed Beachfront Apartment! Rental Price is 48,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 101 Sqm. Stunning Apartment for Rent in Northshore! Rental Price 40,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 64 Sqm. Fantastically Designed Apartment at Grand Condotel!

Rental Price 42,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 95 Sqm. Stunning Apartment for Rent in Jomtien Beach Area!

Rental Price 27,500 Baht/Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 102 Sqm. Modern Designed Beachfront Apartment! Rental Price 60,000 Baht/Month, 2+1 Bedroom/3 Bathroom. 214 Sqm. Beautiful Apartment with Spacious Living Area! Rental Price 55,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom.

340 Sqm.

Call Premier Homes Co., Ltd. 038-231-931 and 081-64-2915

www.premierinternatinal.com

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 374535

EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR FOR PATTAYA Established manufacturer and supplier of cleaning solutions and chemicals are looking for an exclusive distributor/franchisee within Pattaya for their complete product range. A solid sales base has already been built up within area with a turnover in excess of THB 3 million. Interested parties must be motivated to grow sales.

Franchise For Sale THB 2 million

For further information contact Sven on 087 283 5349 or email sven.tbac@gmail.com House for Sale

Great Mabprachan Lake Family Home! Selling Price 11.9 Million Baht and Renting at 90,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 330 Sqm/350 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR2694) Nice Home with Large Swimming Pool & Garden!

Selling Price 13 Million Baht and 6 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 560 Sqm/400 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR3895) Amazing Pratamnak Luxury Estate! Selling Price 60 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 634 Sqm/330 T LW. Fo r a p p o i n t m e n t and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5946) Oriental Thai House in Jomtien Location! Selling Price 15.9 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 450 Sqm/155 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5972) S t u n n i n g To w n h o m e o n Jo m t i e n ’s D o n g t a n Beachfront! Selling Price 22 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/4 Bathrooms, 25 TLW/400 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com.

(PR6083)

Charming Detached House with swimming pool and lovely gardens in Wongamat Location! Selling Price 25 Million Baht, Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathrooms, 300 TLW/300 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com. (PR6075) Beautiful Home in Tadarawadi Village For Sale! Selling Price 42,075,000 Million Baht, 4 Bedroom /4 Bathrooms, 526 TLW/769 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com. (PR5758) Great Jomtien Park Villa with Ver y Nice Moder n Furniture! Selling Price 34 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 238 TLW/500 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com. (PR4176) Beautiful Balinese Style Estate Home with large swimming pool! Selling Price 12 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 362 TLW/280 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com. (PR4802) Great Home in the ver y popular Siam Royal View!

Selling Price 29.9 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/360 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com. (PR4211)

Classified

1 - 15 April 2013

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FOR SALE - MANUFACTURER AND SUPPLIER OF CLEANING SOLUTIONS AND CHEMICALS The company manufactures and supplies cleaning materials to the commercial market – hotels, restaurants, guesthouses and numerous other businesses under a brand name. The hard work has been done in setting up the business and establishing a good customer base. Last year the business turnover was in excess of THB 5 million.

The owner has to reluctantly sell due to personal reasons, however is willing to stay on for period of time to oversee the transfer of the business to a new owner.

Sale Price THB 7.9 million

For further information contact Sven on 087 283 5349 or email sven.tbac@gmail.com A Really Unique Estate on One Rai of Land! Selling Price 50 Million Baht, 6 Bedrooms/7 Bathrooms, 1000 Sqm/440 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5052) Great Home in View Talay Villas! Selling Price 12.9 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 160 Sqm/72 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4854) Great Private Estate Home!

Selling Price 14.9 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 375 Sqm/500 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5365) Stunning House at Santa Maria For Sale! Selling Price 37.5 Million Baht, 4+2 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 900 Sqm/650 TLW. This is an exceptional home built with the best of materials furnished with only the best. For appointment and private viewing, call

the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5790) Great Bungalow with wonderful interior décor on Pratamnak Hill! Selling Price 11.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 170 Sqm/100 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4365) Royal Park Village (Jomtien) House that is 2 Bed-2 Bath, Total Size 140 Sqm 500 Meters from the Beach, SALE PRICE: 4,500,000 THB. , (co. name) Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com Tropical Jomtien Villa with Private Swimming Pool: Thai-Bali Style, 3 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms, 524 Sqm Sale Price: 8,995,000 THB. (Co Name) Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com Jomtien Palace EstatesModern style 6 bedrooms home, 3 bath, 3 bed supstairs and downstairs. Living Area 280 SQM 10.9 million (Co name) please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks. com

View Talay Villas with Private Swimming Pool, Jomtien 1 bed 1 bath from 4.79 mil 2 bed 2 bath from 8.55 mil (co name).

Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email to admin@bobbybrooks.com Jomtien Palace Estates, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, private pool 300 Sqm total area. Sale Price: 6,900,000 THB. (Co Name) Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com The Park Village off Siam Country Club Road. There are 3 Bed, 2 Bath, Total Size 288 Sqm. (Co Name) Sale Price: 1,990,000 THB. Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooksproperty.com Nice House 2 Bed 2 Bath for Sale off Soi Khao Talo: 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms, 1 Living Room, Total Size 156 Sqm 1,899,000 THB. (T hai Name) Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com Pob Choke Garden Hill New House 2 Bed 2 Bath.

Located in Bangsaray just off hwy. 331. Sale Price: 1,699, 000 THB please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com

House for Rent

(ptmhfr-1512) OCCASION! Beautiful townhouse (South Pattaya), 2 minutes to city or beach, peaceful and green environment, superbly full f u r n i s h e d , 3 b e d r o o m s, 2 t e l e v i s i o n s, A D S L , 4 aircondition, garage. Contact: 081 862 9710

House For Rent – Jomtien - Ideally located just 800m from Jomtien Beach in a quiet and secure development, this two storey family home offers 4 bedrooms two with balconies, 3 bathrooms, fully fitted European kitchen with oven, dish washer and washing machine, open plan living room, dining area, covered patio, covered parking, garden, electronic remote garage gate, 24/7 security. Minimum rental period of 6 months applies.

A minimum rental period of 6 months at 45,000 Bt or a 1 year lease at 40,000 Bt per month. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com House For Rent – East Pattaya - A two storey townhouse in a very quiet secure development just a 5 minute drive from Sukhumvit Road. Very spacious, well furnished and offering 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, open plan lounge, dining area, European kitchen with oven, car parking, clubhouse, communal pool and 24/7 security. Outstanding value for this large family home. A minimum rental period of 6 months applies at 20,000 Bt per month or 18,000 Bt for a 1 years lease. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com

12 ZZ/36

Classified

1 - 15 April 2013

House for Rent

Pool Villa For Rent – Jomtien - Stylishly finished and furnished pool villa, living area 80sqm, land area 240sqm, ideally located just 250m from Jomtien Beach offering 1 bedroom, 1 luxurious bathroom, European kitchen, living room, private pool, sun terrace, communal pool, restaurant, 24/7 security, 150m to numerous restaurants, shops, bars in Jomtien Night Plaza on Jomtien 2nd Road and taxis. Minimum rental period of 1 month applies at 40,000 Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Pool Villa For Rent – Silk Road - Stylishly finished and furnished throughout, single storey family home in one of Jomtiens most popular and exclusive developments.

The property offers 3 ensuite bedrooms, 3 luxurious bathrooms, 350sqm ,land area 520 sqm, European kitchen, living room, dining area, detached self contained guesthouse or maids room, private pool, covered patio, landscaped gardens, double covered garage, communal pool, fitness, kiddies play area, tennis court, CCTV throughout the development, key card entry, 24/7 security, just 1 minute drive to Sukhumvit and less than 5 minutes to the beach and Tesco Lotus. 70,000 Bt for 6 month, 65,000 bt for year contract. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Fantastic Home in Great D e v e l o p e m e n t ! Re n t a l Price 110,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 440 Sqm/300 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR2184)

Exclusive Home in Family Friendly Village! Rental Price 110,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4+1 Bathrooms, 500 Sqm/400 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR1601) Impressive Lakeside Estate Home! Rental Price 95,000 Baht/Month, 5 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 650 Sqm/600 TLW. This is an absolutely fantastic family home right on a lake next to Phoenix Golf Club and in the country just minutes from town. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5679) Resort Living just 50 meters from the Beach in Jomtien!

Rental Price 75,000 Baht / Month, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/25 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR2977) Gorgeous Seaview from Bang Sarey Hills! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 470 Sqm/600 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR2424) Nice Rental Home in Phoenix Golf Course Area! Rental Price 95,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/600 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5230)

Fantastic Home in the Mabprachan Lake Area! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 5 Bedrooms/3+1 Bathrooms, 360 Sqm/400 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR0193) Stunning and Gorgeous Home for Rent! Rental Price 90,000 Baht/Month, 3+1 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/120 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR3982) Beachfront Villa with Impressive Interior Design!

Rental Price 130,000 Baht/ Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 350 Sqm/400 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR6017) Jomtien Pllace Home 3 Bdrm 3 Baths modern 140 SQM Fully furnished with cooking supplies, towels, and linens. 35,000 per month for (1 year lease) please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com Jomtien Palace Estates 4 Bed 4.5 Bath with Private Swimming Pool for Rent: 95,000 THB/Month (1 Year Lease) Fully Equipped Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 374535

View Talay Villas with Private Swimming Pool, Jomtien 2 bed 3 bath 45,000 THB/Month (1 Year Lease) Fully Equipped Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email to admin@ bobbybrooks.com

Condo for Sale

Large Corner Unit High Floor - 36TH Floor. 146 square meter, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lovely corner unit.

C o m p l etel y r em o d el ed .

Completely furnished.

Metro Jomtien Condotel.

Price reduced from B 15M TO B 11.25M. Phone for viewing appointment 080 809 3603. (ptm-cfsd1312)The Cliff on Phratamnak Hill, 18th Floor Thai ownership, 74 sqm, 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, 2 balcony. Beautiful front ocean view. Ready to move in. Asking price is 5,688,000 Baht. Also, have 2 studios 37 sqm each, side by side with full ocean view. Asking price is 2,688,000 Baht. Please contact Danny: 083 240 3191 or email firemate54@yahoo.ca. No agents please.

View Talay 5 D - Stylish finished and modern furnishings in this mid floor studio 48 sqm on the Pattaya side of these very popular beachfront buildings with stunning sea views over Koh Larn Island. The studio offers a truly luxurious bathroom, fitted wardrobes, a fully functional European kitchen , stylishly furnished living area, large balcony, huge communal pool, CCTV, 24/7 security, a couple of minutes stroll to the beautiful Dongtan Beach and numerous restaurants, shops, bars and taxis. For Sale 2.75m Bt in foreign name. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com

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Condo for Sale

Porchland - The owner has carried out a really top class and stylish finish on this 37 sqm mid floor unit in these new modern low rise buildings off Soi Chaiyapruk. Stylishly furnished throughout with expensive wall papers, modern fitted units, European kitchen, fully furnished living room, 1 bedroom, luxury bathroom, balcony, communal pool, key card entry, 24/7 security, a short stroll to restaurants, cafes, shops, bars, taxis and 900m to the beach. For Sale: 1.7m Bt in foreign name. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Baan Suan Lalana - Very well renovated 2 bedroom unit in this highly popular tropical resort style development, stylishly furnished throughout offering 2 luxury bathrooms, living room, European kitchen, large balcony, communal pool, gym, sauna, tennis court, mini mart, tropical gardens, excellent 24/7 security... just 800m to Jomtien Beach. A bargain buy. For Sale: REDUCED to 2.4m Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com The Gallery - Very popular new modern low rise buildings ideally located in Central Jomtien, just 150m from the new Night Plaza and the beach. This high floor sea view studio, 26 sqm has been stylishly and expensively furnished throughout with

fitted wardrobe and LCD TV, luxurious bathroom, European kitchen, roof top infinity edge communal pool, sundeck, fitness, key card entry, reception, 24/7 security.

For Sale : 2.1m Bt in foreign name. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Fabulous and Low Priced Apartment at Ocean Marina!

Selling Price 19 Million Baht, 4 Bedroom/4 Bathroom, 274 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5414) Wo n d e r f u l l y D e s i g n e d Luxury Apartment! Selling Price 10.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 134 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5559) Beautiful Apartment with Sea Views! Selling Price 12.6 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 135 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4136)

Foreigner Ownership in Jomtien’s La Royale! Selling Price 11.95 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 148 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR4015) Great Sea Views and In Town Location! Selling Price 29.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 268 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5786) Great Jomtien Beach Area Apartment! Selling Price 3.5 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/2 Bathrooms, 80 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5084) High Floor View Talay III Condo Apartment!! Selling Price 14.4 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 198 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5075)

Nicely Decorated Apartment in Town at Northshore!

Selling Price 9 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 67 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR4990) Great Sea Views and Stunning Décor in North Pattaya!

Selling Price 7.474 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 74 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR4862) Wongamat Bay Sea View Apartment....This Month Huge Reduction! Selling Price is 13.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 210 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR3990) Best priced Apartment in Na Jomtien’s Pine Shore Condo!

Selling Price is 8 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 91 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR4987)

LIFE’S A BEACH AND YOU COULD BE LIVING THIS PRIVILEGED LIFE STYLE TOMORROW Two spectacular beach side apartments have just come on the market. Situated on Na Jomtien’s sandy quiet beach they both offer a piece of paradise.

The Penthouse is a 240 sq/m, 2-storey (4th & 5th floors), 3 bedrooms, 2 shower rooms, 3 toilets with extra large balconies rear and front with full sea view. Semi furnished.

Price: 58,000 Baht/month on 1 year basis (other terms can be arranged).

Apartment 1 is 140 sq/m, 2nd floor, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms/showers. Semi furnished. Extra large balconies rear and front with full sea view. Price: 34,000 Baht/month on 1 year basis (other terms can be arranged).

Contact: Tony Trail – Drifters Café and Apartments Tel: 087-7432319 info@driftersbeachcafe.com www.driftersbeachcafe.com

Sea, Sunset and Island Views at Ocean Marina!

Selling Price 17.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/3 Bathroom.

177 Sqm, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinter national.com (PR3834) View Talay 5C-Stunning Beachfront Condo 2 Bed 2 Bath for Sale on Top Floor 98 sqm: (Foreign Name). SALE PRICE: 5,690,000 THB. , Please call 0823440822 (eng) 0859105124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com Jomtien Condotel – Studio 36 sqm Pattaya Sea view mid floor with Beach access (Foreign Name).

SALE PRICE: 1,990,000 THB. Please call 0823440822 (eng) 0859105124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com

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Park Lane Resort –Reduced 200,000 now 1.49 million THB. 1 bedroom 1 bath (Foreign name). Pool and lagoon view please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com Sunset Boulevard Residence I, Corner Unit 1 Bedroom-1 Bathroom, Total Size 52 Sqm (co. name) Sale Price: 2,595,000 THB++ Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com Sunset Boulevard Residence 1, (2) Studio Rooms, Total Size 36 Sqm each. Side by side 5th floor units with sea views Sale Price: 1,795,000 THB. Each++.Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com

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Condo for Sale

View Talay 5D – (Foreign Name) Large Ocean Side Corner Unit 1 Bed 2 Bath for Sale on High Floor in Jomtien, Total Size 144 Sqm. 10,900,000 THB. Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com The Gallery Condo for Sale in Jomtien Beach: 1 Bedroom-1 Bathroom, Total Size 36 Sqm. SALE PRICE: 2,350,000 THB. (Foreign name) Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com Jomtien Condotel – 81 sq meter 1 Bedroom 1 bathroom 3.8 million THB (Foreign Name) please call 0823440822 (eng) 0859105124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com LK Legend Condo - 1 Bed 1 Bath Nicest unit available in Central Pattaya. Total Size 86 Sqm. 5.900.000 THB (Foreign Name) please call 0823440822 (eng) 0859105124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com View Talay 2B - 10th floor Jomtien Seaview 1 Bedroom 1 Bath 76 (Sqm): 2.890.000 THB. (Thai Name) please call 0823440822 (eng) 0859105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com

Condo for Rent

(ptmcfr-wm1412)Jomtien - Soi 4 150 Meter To Beach. New unit in low building including: furniture. Kitchen, bathroom, cable, flat TV, Wi-Fi. From 6,000/month. Willy 080 821 8326 e-wrm215@aol.com (ptm-cfrwm1412)View Talay #6 Pattaya Beach next to Central Festival Shopping Mall. 24th floor, beach view, 48 sqm. Including: kitchen, Jacuzzi, 50” flat TV, cable, WiFi, washing machine. From 19,000/month. Willy 080 821 8326 e-wrm215@aol.com (ptm-cfr1412) Jomtien Soi 8 – Gallery. Low rise brand new 34 square meter studio ground floor plus private courtyard only 2.1 million Baht. Modern beautifully fully furnished with everything new including fridge, microwave and 42” LED TV. Private quiet Soi, 2 minutes walk beach (or rent 18,000 baht monthly – long term only). Tel No. 082 340 0064 Park Lane Resort Jomtien 1 bedroom 1 bath 36 sqm. 12,000 per month. (1 year Lease) Fully furnished linens, cooking utensils and are City Side View Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com

The Gallery - Already these are very popular rental units ideally located in Central Jomtien, just 150m from the new Night Plaza and the beach. This mid floor unit has been stylishly and expensively furnished throughout offering 1 bedroom ,39sqm with fitted wardrobe and LCD TV, luxurious bathroom, living room with LCD TV and DVD player, European kitchen with breakfast bar, balcony, roof top infinity edge communal pool, sundeck, fitness, key card entry, reception, 24/7 security.

Minimum rental period of 1 month applies, 22,000 Bt high season and 18,000 Bt per month low season. Website Ref: CDOR356. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com View Talay 5 C - A really stylish finish and modern furnishings in this mid floor studio 48 sqm on the Pattaya side of these very popular beachfront buildings with stunning sea views over Koh Larn Island. The studio offers a truly luxurious bathroom, fitted wardrobes, a fully functional European Kitchen with hob, hood and breakfast bar, stylishly furnished living area, large balcony, huge communal pool, CCTV, 24/7 security and a couple of minutes stroll to the beautiful Dongtan Beach and numerous restaurants, shops, bars and taxis. For Rent 25,000 Bt per month or 20,000 Bt on long term lease.

Minimum rental period of 1 month. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com

Thip Condotel - A newly r e n o va t e d a n d s t y l i s h l y furnished 30 sqm studio with European kitchen, luxur y bathroom, washing machine, balcony, communal pool, 24/7 security and a minute walk to numerous restaurants, shops, bars, Jomtien Night Plaza, taxis and 150m to the beach. Price : 12,000 Bt per month. Minimum rental period of 1 month applies.. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Vi e w Ta l a y Re s i d e n c e -Spacious high floor pool facing 55sqm, studio with new stylish furnishings throughout offering European kitchen, large luxurious bathroom, large balcony, UPVC double glazed windows, tropical lag oon communal pool, fitness, 24/7 security, 75m to the Jomtien Night Plaza, numerous restaurants, shops, taxis and 150m to the beach. Minimum rental period of 1 month applies at 20,000 Bt high season and 17,000 Bt per month low season . Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Very Impressive Sea View Apartment!! Rental Price is 40,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedrooms/1 Bathrooms, 64 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5045)

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 374535

Beachfront Living at its Best for Rent! Rental Price is 42,000-227,500 Baht/Month, 2-5 Bedrooms/2-5 Bathrooms, 77-450 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PRC084) Beachfront Life Style for Rent! Rental Price is 85,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 266 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR0737) North Pattaya Beachfront Apartment....Definitely a 5 Star Lifestyle! Rental Price is 100,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 311 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4262) Modern Designed Beachfront Apar tment! Rental Price is 48,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 101 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5423)

Stunning Apartment for Rent in Northshore! Rental Price 40,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 64 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR4570) Fantastically Designed Apartment at Grand Condotel! Rental Price 42,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 95 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4187) Stunning Apartment for Rent in Jomtien Beach Area! Rental Price 27,500 Baht/Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 102 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR4464) Modern Designed Beachfront Apar tment! Rental Price 60,000 Baht/Month, 2+1 Bedroom/3 Bathroom.

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

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5166)

THE LOTUS ESTATE at the Springfield Golf Course and Royal Country Club, Hua Hin – Cha-Am THAILAND A Hidden GEM, this exceptional property in, Cha Am, Hua Hin Thailand, embodies all the characteristic one looks for in a perfect home, including opulent living areas both indoor and outdoor that leads to expansive Terraces, Infinity horizon outdoor and vertical covered swimming pool with pool bar offering an excellent family retreats.

Newly built, the Lotus Estate by The Lotus Group Switzerland is an extravagant and artful blend of classical and Thai designs. It is nestled in a green oasis of the Springfield Golf Course, Cha-am region, Gulf of Thailand, and by any measure is a world-class residence. Even a famous Hollywood producer Kent Smith of FoFilm intends to shoot a film on these luxurious premises.

Only a short drive to the Gulf of Thailand and twenty minutes from the town of Hua Hin, home of the Thai Royal Family, this prestigious private residential resort provides an easy access to shopping malls, Thailand’s state-of-the-art hospitals and internationally recognized Webster and Stamford International universities.

Looking over one of the most challenging golf courses with panoramic mountain views, the Estate comprises of the main villa, two guest houses and a Thai sala (open pavilion) for meditation. It occupies a total of 9,600 square meters or 103,333 square feet.

Price approx CHF 2.7 million or approx US$ 2.9 million

For further Information contact by e-mail bossbkk4you@gmail.

Classified

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 374535

Condo for Rent

Beautiful Apartment with Spacious Living Area! Rental Price 55,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom. 340 Sqm, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5491)

Land for Sale

(ptm-lfs0012)Land for sale. 3.2 Rai 49 TLW, Close to Jomtien 2nd Road. Call: 084 754 4214

Services Provided

(ptmsp-1412)Architect Engineer. Houses Condos 081 295 8038 (ptmsp-1412)Building Contractor. New work maintenance 085 083 4221 PAC Co., Ltd. Can renovate your condo at a very reasonable price with very good standard of work. Ring 087 139 1539 for estimates Eng, 087 150 4845 Thai If You are Having a Problem with Your Computer either software orhardware,please phone 0868202577 or 0811574561 (Thai &Eng). I will go to service at your place.

If you are Looking for a Computer Graphic Designer,Web designer or would like to make someprintedmatters inreasonable price, please phone 0868202577 (Thai) or 0811574561 (Thai &Eng) or email: info@ssallinone.com Repair Service, Repair electrical appliances of all kinds, Monitor LCD, Services to home. Tel : 087 687 2993, 086 183 7971

Job Vacancies

Want English Speaking Driver for D4D Van. Good Salary. Contact: B B mobile 081 147 6767

(ptmjv-a1212)Wanted Thai Staff for working in Restaurant.

Contact Mr. Joshi – 088 820 2024. Annapurna Restaurant, 159/154, Moo 5, Soi 4, opposite World Gems Collection, Pattaya Nua. Ju n i o r G r a p h i c , Ju n i o r Accountant at True North, Production Manager at URS’s behalf. Requirements: Secondary 6/Vocational - Salary based on ability - Full-time; Sr. Account Representative John. - No age limit. Requirements: Bachelor Degree- Salary based on ability - Full-time- The experience will be an advantage. Call: K. Nid 082 478 6444, email: nidjarin@ silvermover.com Assistant to Condominium Mana ger Wanted.We are looking for a female who is interested in working with proper ty management.Job description: customer service to the condo community residents, property inspections of the common areas, building’s accounting and more.Requirements: Good written and spoken English, independent, well organize, good computer and accountant skills. Experience is a plus.

Salary according to skills.

CV with photo to allott25@ hotmail.com Urgent! Experienced Waitress Wanted for Inter national restaurant. Must speak English.

Good salary + tips. Call 091 240 4331.

Restaurant Casa Pascal has Following Vacancies. Service: 1 Captain (Female or Male) Good command of English is essential, 2 Waitress / Waiter acceptable command of English is required. Part–time are also welcome. Kitchen: 1. Chef de parties, acceptable command of English is required; 2. Cooks/ Cook Helper. Part–time are also welcome. Admin: 1. Cashier/ Accountant, good command of English is essential. We

pay extremely good salaries and excellent benefits to the successful candidates.

Remuneration package includes: Duty Meals, Salar y, Sales Commission, 71 paid holydays, Overtime paid, Service Charge, Monthly Performance Bonus, Tips sharing, special incentives.

Applicants please call 038 723 660 / 0850964374 for interview. www.casa-pascal.com BulgamaSauna.Sauna, restaurant & massage. Newly Opened Korean-Style sauna is looking for Thai staffs to start as soon as possible.

Good Salary + incentive. Thai Massager, Foot Massager 10 positions; Cook Thai, Chinese or European 2 positions; Cook Assistant 3 positions.

Contact: Khun Poon: 089 422 8280, Office: 038 170 951, E-mail: bulgama@hotmail. co.th, Address: 45, Moo 7, Nongplalai, Banglamung, Chonburi20150

Vehicles for Sale

(ptmvs-a1612)Honda CRV 2.0 Automatic Future Classic Blue Metallic 2001, Perfect Condition, power windows, ABS, Airbags Aloy wheels.

Radio/CD. Central Alar m System and Locking. Farang owner from new, maintained

by Honda dealer, 210,000km new engine by 180,000km.

All bills available 365,000 baht only. Call 089 015 4072 or 089 030 8891 Email: schovol@ gmail.com Nissan March, 1.2 E CVT 2012. Automatic, silver, electric windows, central locking, CD player, 16,000 kms, with service book and A1 insurance. As new 420,000 baht. Call 087 139 1539 Honda Jazz Top Of The Line. Silver gray, 2009 year model. Only 21,000 kms.

Expat sell for 440,000 Baht, new 700,000. Served by Honda.

Call 087 108 0995

Deadline Issue April 1 - 15 Please Forward Your Classifieds by 5:00 PM, March 22 E-mail : info@pattayatoday.net Fax : 038 - 374 535 Or drop off at our office 221/3 Moo 11 Sukhumvit Rd., Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150

Tel : 038 - 374 534

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Tips & Advice

What Our

Readers Say

How to solve Pattaya traffic woes (John Vernon says) Pattaya simply cannot function when hundreds of coaches are allowed to park willynilly all over town. They also cause mayhem at junctions because they are very slow-turning, thus making nonsense of the traffic light sequences. Pattaya’s roads, especially in the suburbs, were not constructed to carry all this weight of traffic.

(Doreen Hetherington says) There are far too many motorbikes parked along main thoroughfares such as Beach Road. When you add to this problem all the coaches disgorging Chinese tourists to go to Koh Larn every morning (to be picked up in the afternoon) and the temporary stalls selling trinkets and clothes every time there is a festival, then you have a recipe for traffic chaos. And that is what we have.

(GK says) In the fourth century AD, Rome banned all wheeled traffic by day because of the sheer numbers living in the city. Although that may seem a bit drastic to introduce into Pattaya, there may be some mileage in restricting larger vehicles, such as trucks, during certain peak times. After all, vans and trucks cannot access Walking Street during the night period.

(Ken Wild says) It is a tragedy that local public opinion – read baht bus and taxi mafias – turned down a proposal last year to have an elevated electric train serving the downtown areas of Pattaya. Until there is a sensible public transport policy you can forget all about Pattaya having an environmentally friendly atmosphere.

(LY says) The only way to solve the traffic problems is to make the motorist pay more. Perhaps a toll plaza on the outskirts of Pattaya, along Sukhumvit

Your Visa

Queries Answered Mr. Chang @ VISA SERVICE IN PATTAYA E-MAIL: changvisa@gmail.com 183/27 M.10 Soi 13/2 Nongpure, Banglamung Chonburi 20150 Mobile: 66 81 7549342 Tel: 66 38 711 145

Fax: 66 38 710 163

Sponsored by

www.visacentergroup.com

www.visa2britain.com

Visa for wife Q: I am a work permit holder in Thailand with a Filipina wife. She is not working, but I obviously want her to live with me here without having to apply for separate visas all the time. How can I do this please?

A: Your wife can share your non immigrant “B” visa, based on your work permit, for as long as you continue in legal employment. She needs a non immigrant (any type) three month visa, passport and marriage certificate. You need to provide some documents too – work permit, passport and company registration and tax certificates. The Immigration Office with which you deal can then bring your wife’s visa into line with yours.

Joint visa query Q: I am shortly going to visit Thailand and then Cambodia by air only and each for about three weeks, so do I need to apply for one of the new joint visas issued by the overseas consulates and embassies of these countries?

A: Not really. The new joint visa allows you to enter both countries once for up to two months, but you have to pay a fee at the airport or border post when you enter them. As you are an American, best to come to Thailand free (30 days at the airport) and then proceed to Cambodia where you will get a visa on arrival for US$20 at Phnom Penh or Siem Reap airport. The new joint visa might be more suitable if you were coming to Southeast Asia for a longer stay.

Sickness strikes Q: I was admitted to hospital three months ago with heart trouble and only now am I ready to return to UK after an operation went badly wrong. In all the confusion, my visa was overlooked and I am now in overstay for a period

Road, would reduce the number of vehicles coming through. There would need to be a huge car parking area and free public transport into Central Pattaya and Jomtien.

(Paula says) It seems to me that what is lacking is police enforcement of local traffic regulations. There is little serious attempt here to fine drivers who park on yellow lines, or other prohibited spots, and I am surprised there is so little interest in parking outrages by the powers-that-be.

(Phil Fotheringay says) Frankly Pattaya is a fun city and if there is traffic chaos and snarlups, then that is a sign that business is booming. As Winston Churchill once put it so eloquently “This is something up with which we shall have to put.” [sic] (DS says) It’s obvious that the only meaningful answer is to build more roads. The new Jomtien 2 Road is a good example of what works well and the popularity of that area takes some of the pressure away from central Pattaya.

(Kevin H says) The long term solution is to build a long, underground tunnel from North Pattaya to Jomtien for through traffic, leaving the current Sukhumvit Road to deal with short-term and turning traffic for the city centre. Frankly, until that happens way into the future, you and I will have to grin and bear it.

(Jesse Wainwright says) If you want people to stop using their cars, then you have to provide a decent alternative. The idea of a high speed train from Bangkok is excellent but remember to ask the question what happens when hundreds of people leave the station. You need a transit system and not hundreds of waiting taxis, all guzzling fuel.

of several weeks. I am concerned that I will be arrested when I get to the airport next week which my friend says I will be.

A: Not so. Thai immigration rules are flexible when it comes to serious incapacity. When you arrive at the airport carry with you the air ticket (of course), 20,000 baht maximum overstay visa and a letter from the hospital outlining the medical problems encountered. It is simply untrue that casualties in your situation are jailed.

Blacklist or not Q: As I ran out of money I am afraid that my visa will be three weeks over by the time I reach the airport. I have the overstay fine ready to pay – 500 baht a day up to a maximum of 20,000 baht – but I am concerned that I may be blacklisted and refused entry again to Thailand. This would be very difficult as I have a young Thai daughter.

A: Immigration staff have wide powers, but overstayers in your situation are not arrested or blacklisted provided they can pay. The blacklist is usually reserved for crimes such as drugs possession or trafficking, child molestation or serious violence.

Blacklisted already Q: I was blacklisted two years ago after being convicted of a serious indecency offence in Thailand. I recently applied for a 60-day tourist visa with a new passport at one of the consulates in UK. Does this mean that I can return to Thailand without difficulty now?

A: No it doesn’t. Consulates abroad sometimes issue visas without access to the Thai immigration blacklist. When you arrive in Thailand, the officer may well refuse you admittance – which he/she can under the Immigration Act of 1980 as amended. In this eventuality you would not be able to leave the airport pending a return flight to your home country.

Renew driving licence Q: What documents do I need to replace my Thai driving licence which expired three weeks ago? Does it make any difference that it has expired? I quite forgot to renew it on time.

A: Same documents as usual – new certificate of residence from Immigration, your passport and expired driving licence plus the fee. You must be careful not to drive on the roads with the expired licence as you will invalidate any insurance in case of an accident.

Today's Editorial Hi-speed train chugs ahead In spite of doubts from seasoned political observers and cynical expats, it looks like the much publicized hi-speed train from Bangkok to Pattaya will actually go ahead – barring accidents – with an operational date scheduled for 2018. The costs will be met from the pool of 2 trillion baht which the government is keen to borrow internationally in order to pay for many infrastructure improvements over the next five years.

Although there are four proposed railway lines, the government says it will employ only one winner for all the hi-speed routes in order to avoid different technologies and signaling equipment which would push up maintenance costs dramatically. Train manufacturers from China, Japan, Spain, South Korea and France have so far shown interest in building and running the trains. All these countries already have hi-speed trains of their own.

Once it is running, hopefully in 2018, the eastern train to Pattaya will be extended to Rayong and probably Chantaburi and Trat. There is also a suggestion that U Tapao airport should have a station in view of ambitious drawing-board plans to extend dramatically the number of international flights landing there. However, these extensions are unlikely to be built, if at all, until well into the 2020s.

The three other hi-speed ventures which have been agreed in principle are from Bangkok to Phitsanulok (later to Chiang Mai), Nakhon Ratchasima (later Nong Khai) and Hua Hin (later to Padang Besar and the Malaysian border).

Further suggestions to link Thailand to both southern China, Cambodia and Vietnam by hi-speed trains are on hold for the time being. Railway investment is indeed for the long term.

If Pattaya is to be connected to Bangkok by hi-speed rail within five years, a great deal of work will need to be accomplished very quickly. At present there is no surety about where the tracks will be, although experience in other countries suggests they will be laid alongside existing routes. Nor do we know where the stopping places will be, although Suvarnabhumi airport must surely be on the planners’ minds even though the current slow-track does not go there.

Pattaya currently has two railway stations but they are not close to the city centre, which poses questions about what will happen when passengers unload. One idea being touted is an overhead railway linking the station (wherever it is) with Pattaya city centre. This would be a different venture from the overhead cable car idea discarded last year as the new proposal would specifically be an access facility to and from the hi-speed train.

Experience in other countries suggests that hi-speed trains are a popular means of transporting both goods and people, provided they are convenient for visiting centres of population. In other words, where exactly the rail-head is located means a very great deal in marketing terms. The downside of hi-speed trains is the very high cost of maintenance and the need for very sophisticated technology, especially relating to signals and safety issues.

Trains travelling well over 100km per hour can’t pull up on a sixpence.

It is precisely this kind of infrastructure improvement which Pattaya needs if it is to become the leading resort of the Thai “Riviera”. But a lot else remains to be done. Road improvements also need to be made. The suggestion to build a tunnel under Sukhumvit Road to reduce the traffic holdups and chaos in central Pattaya has been sent back to the drawing board for further research. Pattaya can only achieve its rightful position in the hierarchy of Thai resorts if it is clean and environmentally friendly. We are a long way indeed from that at the moment. But, at least, the issues are finally under active debate.

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Local Sports Local and International Motorsports Report The 2013 F1 season got the Green Flag on March 17th, and in addition to St. Patrick’s day and everyone sporting a bit of green. Kimi Raikkonen fired off the first shot and drove a text book race from the 17.03.2013- Race, Kimi Raikkonen (FIN) Lotus F1 Team E21 green flag to the chequered to calmly outwit Fernando Alonso and Sebastian Vettel to win the first GP of the year in Australia. (Top 3 race results below) 1. Kimi Raikkonen Finland Lotus-Renault 58 laps 1hr 33m 03.225s 2. Fernando Alonso Spain Ferrari-Ferrari +00m 12.4s 3. Sebastian Vettel Germany Red Bull-Renault +00m 22.3s

2013 FI World Calendar (Feb-Apr) 03 2013 FORMULA 1 UBS CHINESE GRAND PRIX (Shanghai) 12 - 14 Apr 04 2013 FORMULA 1 GULF AIR BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX (Sakhir) 19 - 21 Apr 05 FORMULA 1 GRAN PREMIO DE ESPAÑA 2013 (Catalunya) 1 0 - 12 May www.formula1.com (live timing and scoring online) **All events will be shown on Star Sports Asia

Date 4/7/13 4/13/13 4/21/13 4/27/13

Day Sun Sat Sun Sat

2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (Feb-Apr) Race Site Martinsville Texas Motor Kansas Richmond International

Location TV Race Speedway FOX Speedway FOX Speedway FOX Raceway FOX

Start ET 1:00 PM 7:30 PM 1:00 PM 7:30 PM

www.nascar.com (live timing and scoring online)

2013 Indy Car Schedule (Feb-Apr)

Date Race name April 7 Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama(31) April 21 39th Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach(32) www.indycar.com (live timing and scoring online)

Date 07 Aprl 21 April 05 May

Location Birmingham, Alabama Long Beach, California

2013 MotoGP Grand Prix (Feb-Apr)

Grand Prix Qatar* Americas Spain

www.motogp.com (live timing and scoring online) **All events will be shown on Star Sports Asia

Circuit Doha/Losail Austin Jerez de la Frontera

Other Motorsports Events of Note:

Top Thai riders are Kiteboard Tour Asia Thailand champions

Thai kiteboarders from around the country descended on Pak Nam Pran, Pranburi last month to challenge international comers at the second stop of the Kiteboard Tour Asia 2013.

In an event that saw 85 discipline entries from 21 countries overall, the 14 Thai riders showed expertise in all three disciplines, but excelled in the Raceboard (RB) Class. RB is considered the pro race class and almost gained a 2016 Olympic Games slot. The thermally driven wind conditions in Pak Nam Pran were perfect for highlighting this discipline with every day of the competition starting with RB class racing.

Yo Narpichit Pudla (THA), the current Thai and Asian champion was streaks ahead of his rivals, winning all 13 races run during the week. Ken Nacor (PHP) held back any advances from the other two top Thai riders, Pravit Buajuturas (THA) and Jack Chanon Phrakeaw (THA) who battled it out for the third spot on the podium. Buajutaras from Hua Hin may have had home ground advantage and beat the Pattaya-based Phrakaew who is a top racer and came second at the Thai Nationals the weekend before.

The Thai women’s champion, Fon Benyapa Jantawan, who before the event said: “I am nervous because I would like to do well here”, showed good home water knowledge to unseat Germany’s Kathrin Borgwardt from her normal first place on the podium in the women’s division. Early on in the event Jantawan and current Asian champion Aya Oshima (JAP) were swopping top spot, but by day four Jantawan, who trains in these waters, fixed her first place position.

As the top Thai freestyle kiters, Pudla and Jantawan were also the riders to watch in this division. On day three of the event the wind came through strong enough and the freestyle heats were started. It was not a good start for team Thailand, with the three other Thai entrants coming up against the top riders in Asia in the first round. Pudla worked his way up the ladder and found himself in the final against Japan’s Hironobu Nakano who is much improved from last season and in a powerful battle beat the Thai Champion.

The women’s freestyle was a very international affair, with current Asian champion Aya Oshima fighting for a third spot against Ali Dudfield (AUS) and the challenge for top spot was between KTA’s new face this season, Brazil’s Estefania Rosa, and event winner from last season, Estonia’s Kristiin Oja. Oja’s power came through and gave her a hard-fought and welldeserved win over Rosa.

The TT racing class was all about equipment choice, with many riders battling to finish the first races of the event and the top Thai rider in the division Teera Sudpum Kaew ending in sixth. Sweden’s Atte Kappel, who won everything at the first tour stop in Indonesia, struggled with the lighter wind conditions which let Philippine racer Doque de los Santos back in to take his first season win on the tour.

The women’s TT class also saw a change with the USA’s Anny Barlow taking top spot and close at her heels was a completely new face to the KTA from China and at only 13 years old, Yue Cheng Jing is already showing she is going to be a force to be reckoned with.

Top three for the KTA Thailand Freestyle Men 1. Hironobu Nakano (JPN) 2. Yo Narapichit Pudla (THA) 3. Michael Khromykh (UKR)

Freestyle Women Kristiin Oja (EST) Estefania Rosa (BRA) Aya Oshima (JPN)

RB Class Men RB Class Women 1. Yo Narapichit Pudla (THA) Fon Jantawan Benyapa (THA) 2. Ken Nacor (PHL) Aya Oshima (JPN) 3. Pravit Buajutturas (THA) Kathrin Borgwardt (GER) TT Class Men TT Class Women 1. Doque De Los Santos (PHL) Anny Barlow (USA) 2. Xiao Cheng Deng (CHN) Yue Chen Jing (CHN) 3. Jay Ortiz (PHL) Lisa Nikitina (UKR)

The start of the 12 Hours of Sebring March 16th 2013

The 61st annual 12 hours of Sebring hosted by the American Lemans Series was held in Florida on its annual date the same day as the start to F1 season. Unsurprisingly, Audi with Hybrid Power took the overall win, but the Ferrari-Corvette-BMWPorsche-Viper battle was tight. Next up for the series is the annual Gran Prix of Long beach along with the Indy Car™ series double header on April 21st 2013.

1. Lotterer/Fassler/Treluyer Audi Sport Team Joest Audi R18 e-Tron Quattro 378 laps LMP1 * 2. McNish/Capello/Kristensen Audi Sport Team Joest Audi R18 e-Tron Quattro 377 laps LMP1

**Local Thailand Motorsports Schedules 2013** Thailand Super Series Schedule (TSS) 2013 May 25-26 Sepang, Malaysia July 13-14Pattaya’s Bira Circuit October 5-6 Pattaya’s Bira Circuit December 13-15 Bang Saen Street Circuit, Chonburi Nitto 3K Racing Series Schedule 2013 Pattaya’s Bira Circuit on 3-5 May Kaeng Krachan Circuit 5-7 July Pattaya’s Bira Circuit 6-8 September Bonanza Speedway 1-3 November Pattaya’s Bira Circuit 6-8 December

Pro Series Schedule 2013 June 29-30 - Pattaya’s Bira Circuit July 27-28 - Pattaya’s Bira Circuit September 28-29 - Kaeng Krachan Circuit October 26-27, 2013 - Kaeng Krachan Circuit

OMP Challenge Series Schedule 2013 April 21 - Pattaya’s Bira Circuit June 16 - Pattaya’s Bira Circuit November 17 - Pattaya’s Bira Circuit December 22 - Pattaya’s Bira Circuit Great comprehensive local and international motorsports websites to bookmark: www.crash.net www.live.autosport.com www.motorsport.com www.tunespeed.com (Thai Language you can use Google translate) www.motorsportlives.com (Thai Language you can use Google translate)

Bobby Brooks™

PSC Charity Classic

by William Macey To arrange any golf tournament takes weeks of organization.To arrange a major tournament, like last week'’s Charity Classic-where there were prizes on every hole, prizes for the top 10 pairs, sponsors to obtain, shirts to order as well as negotiating for a golf course at an attractive price, with a shotgun start and a buffet--is no exception Add to all that the preparation of start sheets, which was a two-person scramble, and the collecting of entry of fees, takes time and energy and today PSC golf chairman Joe Mooneyham excelled in masterminding the arrangements with help from office manager Mai. Efforts provided 140 PSC members with a successful and profitable, for charity, golf tournament.

Help was provided by fellow committee members Tony, president, William, charity chair, and Nigel, social chair.

The day started with putting up sponsors' signs and leaving the appropriate markers on each hole.

Joe and Nigel worked the registration desk; Tony and William passed out shirts donated by Chris Balzai of Sinto Shirts. Burapha was in pristine condition, as expected, with superb greens, closely mown fairways, hot and sunny conditions but with just a slight breeze to keep the temperatures at a reasonable level, perfect conditions in which to play golf. With a full complement of 144 players, it was about 5 hours later that the teams returned to the clubhouse and presented their scores. Then the sheets for the 20 technical prizes arrived to be recorded.

Joe thanked all who participated in today’s tournament with special thanks to the support of the sponsors. Although many have been sponsors for a number of years, new sponsors were brought to the attention of everyone present. Special thanks to today’s hosts and in particular the Burapha general manager – Mike – for the support of both Burapha and The Eastern Seaboard Golf Association with whom PSC have built up a firm relationship over recent years. Many complimentary green fees were provided by the ESG.

A special relationship has also been developed with Singha, a company that supports many golf tournaments in Thailand.

They provided our winners with Singha Golf Bags and many free drinks for everyone. During this time two lovely ladies, Wendy Chetland and Noi Emmerson, moved around the tables selling raffle tickets for many splendid prizes provided by our sponsors.

The final ticket was to receive 60 percent of the ticket sales.

Nigel then read out the winners of the technical prizes, and as this was a ‘pairs’, the respective partner also got a prize.

So to the final results – the top 10 pairs winning a prize. Runners up were the team of Max Bracegirdle and Stu Rifkin with a net 62.8 off their combined handicap of 8.2 losing by just .2 to the winning team of Bob Watson and Max Scott with 62.2 net of their 1.4 handicap. They were welcomed with great applause for an excellent score. Then some great prizes were presented to the winners of the raffle including Pro V golf balls and Fairway Woods donated by City Golf.

So ended another successful Charity Classic where there were many winners – the main one being Charity as more than 400,000 baht was raised through this event.

In addition to those mentioned above, special thanks must go to those that were sponsors on the day.

Gold Sponsor – Jakalope Hole sponsors: Lewiinski’s Hotel Drunken Duck YWCA Outback Golf Bar The Players Lounge Pattaya Mail The Golf Club Growling Swan Casa Pascal Restaurant Classroom “A” Go-Go TQ Masters Links Hotel and Golf Bar Take It Easy Rentals Jesters Care For Kids Walter Baechli he Beaver Bar Choice/Inspire Pattaya Best Wine Lovers Personal Sponsors: Steve Milne Elias Magnusson Dave Richardson Jan Nielson Richard and Carole Kubicki

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Tips & Advice

QUICK TIP

Use top-quality typewriter correction fluid to cover nicks, chips, and scratches on enameled ranges and refrigerators, porcelain tiles, and sinks. It comes in a variety of colors, and it works like a charm.

Size Matters Hello, Andy. I recently partitioned my home to create a separate bedroom, but the small room is stuffy and needs an air conditioner. How do I determine what size to buy? Or does size matter?

And can I install it myself?

Barton

of 17,500. You’d opt for 18,000 BTUs. In any event, Seamus concurs that “an air conditioning unit should only be installed by a qualified engineer.” Irish Aircon (089 608 7808) sells, installs and services air conditioning units for residential and commercial customers throughout Pattaya.

In my former life I once installed a window air conditioner and that was hard enough. Anything more complicated than a window unit is not really a DIY project. But for an authoritative answer to your questions, Barton, I turned to one of Pattaya’s leading air conditioner experts, Seamus at Irish Aircon Company. He advises, “Size certainly does matter. You don’t want something too small or too big.

To get the correct BTU for any room in a condo or house with standard wall heights (approximately 2.9 meters); multiply the square meters of the room by 700.

(For bars or restaurants, multiply by 1,000.) Aircon BTU sizes in Thailand to suit most rooms are: 9,000, 13,000, 18,000, 24,000, 28,000, 30,000, and 35,000.” Therefore, Barton, if your “small room” is say 25-square meters, you would multiply that by 700 for a total

Got Namman Son? Do you know where I can find turpentine and kerosene in Pattaya, Andy?

David None HomeWorks carries both turpentine and kerosene, David.

They are in the paint section at the rear of the store--which itself is behind Big C (South Pattaya Road at Sukhumvit). If you don't see them, ask a clerk for namman son (turpentine) and gat (kerosene).

Same Same But… Khun Andy, now have husband farang want eat brown rice.

I never make before. You can tell me how to do?

Nit I don’t want to turn this into a cooking forum, Nit, but inasmuch as I encourage everyone to switch to brown rice, I’ll tell you briefly

that brown rice can be prepared same same as white rice if you use a rice cooker, just add a little extra water and do not wash the rice because that will remove nutrients.

For stove top, measure rice into a sauce pan and cover with twice as much water plus (I use nine cups of water to four cups of rice.) Bring to a boil, cover, and then simmer for about 40 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir, fluff and let sit, covered, for 10 to 15 minutes.

Grass Class I planted grass seeds in our front yard, Andy, and the lawn has come in very nice, thank you. Actually, it’s already too tall. I need some cutting tips. Actually, I could use an entire class on lawn care.

Adam To keep your lawn healthy, Adam, both mowing height and frequency are important. Cutting your grass short can harm your lawn in the long run. Longer lawns limit weed growth and reduce the need for watering.

Mowing with a low blade height removes nutrients stored in leaf blades and exposes the soil to Pattaya’s blazing sun. Taller grass is better able to compete with weeds, thanks to a larger root system and a higher tolerance for heat. It also shades the ground, allowing the soil to retain water more effectively. Given these benefits, it's a good idea to cut your lawn at a height of about 3 to 5 centimeters for most types of grass, and 5 to 9 centimeters for Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass and St. Augustine varieties. After mowing, leave the smaller clippings, which decompose more easily and nourish your soil. So don’t collect and discard these

Frank, Forthright & Frigid Dear Agony Ivy, Embarrassing undies My son Kevin is now 58 and I have given up all hope of a normal life for him.

He has always been a hoarder and over the years has built up an amazing collection of old newspapers and coloured bottles which date back to the Suez crisis of the 1950s.

In recent times he has kept his bedroom door locked but he recently had a bout of flu which gave me my first chance in years to enter his domain. You can imagine my horror when I found inside a huge pile of ladies’ underwear – bras and panties – and even worse he was actually wearing a black, flimsy nightgown meant for someone thirty years younger.

He looked completely ridiculous. At first he denied all personal involvement in the thefts and tried to blame the cat.

However he then remembered that we don’t own a cat. He then said it was all my

fault as I had not given him proper food when he was a baby.

You will understand that I am now an elderly woman with a sick son and I don’t know where to turn. I am going out of my mind with worry as I don’t know what will happen to him after I am dead.

Anguished Ada Dear Anguished Ada, I wouldn’t worry too much about what will happen after you pass on as he is clearly a criminal who is not difficult to spot at night as a pensioner in a negligee.

It’s amazing he hasn’t been arrested until now. In your own interests you need to protect your home. Send all this stuff immediately to Oxfam or to a jumble sale so that there is no incriminating evidence if the police should call. As regards stopping nigh night-time jaunts in future, the best solution is probably sleeping tablets in his cocoa.

clippings. Never mow a lawn when it's wet (the moisture can damage mower blades) and never cut the grass more than a third of its current length.

Apples and Oranges My condo is measured in meters, but when I went to buy floor tiles recently, I found they were measured in inches. That problem is easily solved, but similar confusion is found time and again in relation to measures used for a variety of products ranging from adhesives and cleaning solutions to recipes and medications. Can you provide a simple list of equivalent weights and measures?

Margaret “Simple” is not the first word that comes to mind when comparing (a kilo of) apples and (2.2 pounds of) oranges. That said, Margaret, here are some conversions you can use as a rough guide: *1 inch equals 0.025 meters; 1 foot (12 inches) equals 0.305 meters; one square foot (144 square inches) equals 0.092 square meters. Conversely, 1 meter equals 39.37 inches or 3.28 feet; one square meter equals 10.764 square feet or 1,550 square inches. That should help when buying floor tiles. *As to measured amounts, one liquid ounce is the same as 29.57 milliliters. One liter converts to 33.8 ounces or 1.057 quart. A teaspoon equals 4.93 milliliters, while a tablespoon (three teaspoons) is 14.79 milliliters. One cup is the equivalent of .237 liters. There are two cups in a pint (.473 liters), four cups in a quart (.946 liters) and 16 cups in a gallon (3.79 liters).

Dear Agony Ivy, Exposing your bottom I recently attended a concert and was horrified to see that there was a woman in front whose rear end was exposed as she sat on a chair. People were giggling and one even took some photos and posted them on Facebook. My concern is for the woman’s family and I can’t think of a tactful way to tell her that her knickers are the wrong shape. What do you suggest I do?

Mystified Myra Dear Mystified Myra, The person who invented low-rise pants for women should frankly be sent to the stake. They flatter noone especially when the wearer bends over or sits. If it’s not the flesh drooping over the waistband, it’s the Great Rift Valley clearly visible from the back.

A great poet once said that if we could see ourselves as others see us, we would make far fewer mistakes.

I suggest that you show your friend one of the photos on Facebook. To lessen the blow, you could ask someone to take a photo of yourself in ill-fitting knickers and post that on Facebook too. Your friend, with luck, will readily understand that a problem shared is a problem largely solved.

*For weights, an ounce is 28 grams; a pound equals 453.59 grams, and a kilogram is 2.2 pounds.

And She Does Windows Khun Andy, how I can clean aluminum window frame and other aluminum?

Annie If your aluminum is painted, Annie, just rub with a mixture of water and mild detergent, then rinse and wipe dry. Avoid strong cleaners or scouring powder as these may damage the paint.

Clean the frames before cleaning glass so the solution does not spot glass panes. Clear or colored anodized aluminum frames will resist weathering and can be washed with mild detergent and water. Solvents can be used to remove grease spots from anodized frames. Never use abrasives as they will scratch. Finally, bare, unfinished aluminum gradually weathers and turns gray.

It forms its own oxide coating which protects it. (A coat of clear lacquer will prevent this.) In early stages of weathering, washing with soap and water will restore brightness. If severely weathered, you can restore brightness using stronger cleaners or mild abrasives. Test any new cleaner on a hidden spot. If the aluminum is too hot to touch, do not clean it. Always rinse off all traces of cleaner thoroughly. Really weathered window frames may be washed with soap and water, rinsed thoroughly, and painted.

Closing Line Nostalgia isn't what it used to be.

--Handy Andy

Dear Agony Ivy, The perpetual noise I have been married to Bert for 20 years but we no longer sleep together for reasons which will now become crystal clear. I am sorry to be vulgar but Bert is a “farter”, especially at meal times. Whilst we are having our dinner he will let out several of these disgusting noises which quite puts me off my food. We have tried going to the marriage guidance counselor but all she did was to open all the windows. It was a complete waste of time. Our social life has gone to zero as nobody invites us out any more. We were even barred by the Gilbert and Sullivan Society. I am writing to you as a last throw of the dice in the hope you can offer me some straight advice.

Downhearted Daphne Dear Downhearted Daphne, I can’t help but think that Bert’s noises might hold a personal message for you – for instance that he is seeking a divorce. As regards the immediate problem, it may be useful to have a radio or TV near the meal table. As soon as there is any suggestion of involuntary movement or smells, you can turn up the volume and enjoy the rest of your meal in comparative peace and tranquility. Sometimes the simplest remedies are the most successful as we all blunder our way through this tedious, earthly existence.

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Youth Focus Clear Cognitive Thinking, Self-Esteem, Communication:

If Your Child Is Having Problems In Any Of These Areas, Learning A Second Language Could Be The Answer.

by Tirina Simons, Development Director for ESL Program Childhood represents a period of time when growth and development happen at an extremely rapid pace. Other than infancy, there is no other stage in the human growth cycle that is more noticeably profound. It is a stage of development when the brain has the greatest capacity to acquire and retain

knowledge. Research has confirmed that this is the best time to introduce a second language.

There has been wide-spread linguistic research done in the area of childhood development. Studies have shown that when children learn a second language, they are positively affected in several areas; among them are: cognitive ability, self-esteem and communication.

Language learning has been clinically found to strengthen a child’s cognitive ability.

Cognitive ability refers to the “processes of

thinking and reasoning” (Cambridge Academic Dictionary). Some parents are reluctant to introduce a second language, fearing linguistic confusion. But on the contrary, knowing another language will actually help to strengthen the child’s understanding of his/her native tongue.

Children also have a great ability to distinguish even the slightest nuance between different languages, which is much harder to do as we mature in age.

Knowing a second language also has been found to raise a child’s aptitude in other academic areas. Dr. Laura-Ann Petitto, a professor and Cognitive Neuroscientist at Dartmouth College, in her research has reported that “bilingual children can perform certain cognitive tasks better than monolinguists”.

Learning a second language actually strengthens the brain muscle, helping it to function in a greater capacity. Children who are bilingual have also been found to have higher scores on standardized tests.

Learning a second language can promote higher self-esteem. Children take great pride in their ability to communicate with others.

It improves their confidence and mitigates alienation from their peers. Since children have a great aptitude to achieve fluency at an early age, self-confidence in their ability to learn is also positively affected.

International Day at Garden International School

by Abhi Khullar (Year 9) Garden International School (GIS) held a spectacular International Day with music, food and activities from every corner of the globe.

With students from around 35 countries, it was a great chance for everyone at Garden to learn more about each other’s culture.

This year’s event started with the Samba Band from Africa followed by a flag parade.

Then, as each national anthem was played, students from their countries took to the stage and proudly waved their flags.

After this, Years 6 and secondary students attended the point-earning International Quiz or took part in internationally-themed activities, such as cricket, football, Thai-cooking, the ‘Arty Party’, Ceilidh dancing and other games from around the world. The quiz involved answering questions on everything from international cuisines to famous Asian monuments.

The winner was Team Tiger, with 46 points, closely followed by Team Gecko with 44 points.

In the evening everyone returned for performances and mouth-watering, luscious dishes provided by the International Baccalaureate (IB) students. The night ended with two elegant Chinese dances and the Ceilidh Band, Korean Band and finally Rohit’s Band performed ‘We Didn’t Start the Fire’. All the performers then went on stage for a fitting end with the song “We are Children of the World.”

GIS is based in Ban Chang near Pattaya.

For more, visit www.gardenrayong.com

As children learn a second language they become better communicators. During the early stages of development, much of what children learn comes from “mimicking” those around them, especially when it comes to language. As sited earlier, children have

a profound ability to hear even the slightest variance that may exist between different languages, such as in “tonal” languages like Thai. And with early exposure to a second language, they have a greater aptitude to become fluent.

There are scores of documented reports on the subject of children learning languages outside of their native-tongue. Since a child’s mind is capable of processing incredible amounts of information, it is during this stage of development that introduction to a second language will be most effective. Learning a second language will help your child think and solve problems more easily, build selfesteem and become a better communicator.

If your child could use a boost in any of these areas, learning a second language may be the answer.

Quality confirmed: GIS gets CIS

By Mark Beales Garden International School (GIS) is celebrating after being given official accreditation by the Council of International Schools (CIS).

GIS, which is based in Ban Chang near Pattaya, went through a detailed assessment, with inspectors visiting the school to check CIS’s high standards were being met.

Like many schools, Garden International School has been a member of CIS for many years, but is now fully accredited by CIS – making it the first international school on the Eastern Seaboard to be given the prestigious honour.

This is fantastic news for the school and everyone associated with it, as it confirms it is keeping to the internationally-recognized high standards that it sets itself.

CIS is a global non-profit membership organization. It helps schools that have a 'desire to provide students with the knowledge, skills and abilities to pursue their lives as global citizens; and a commitment to high quality education'. The award of Accredited Status shows that GIS has achieved 'high standards of professional performance in international education and has a commitment to continuous improvement.'

Principal Dr Stuart Tasker said: “The process of accreditation is an arduous one.

Many people - staff, students and parents - contributed to a major self-study on philosophy, systems and processes.

“The CIS visiting team then made their own judgments against their set standards, with the decision of awarding full accreditation the very pleasing result. It was a major undertaking for our community and we are very proud to be awarded such privileged status.”

Garden International School was founded in 1994 and teaches children aged from 3 to 18. It has been offering the International General Certificate of Education (IGCSE) since 1996 and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme since 1999. GIS has more than 400 students from 35 countries, making it a truly international school.

As well as offering boarding to students, it has a range of facilities, including a swimming pool, football pitch, specialist music rooms, electronic whiteboards, science labs, computer suites, library and two halls.

For more on the school, visit www.gardenrayong.com.

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Our Community Dusit Thani Pattaya donates to Chai Pattana Foundation

Centara employees clean Maldives beach

HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn accepted a donation from Dusit Thani Pattaya on behalf of the Chai Pattana Foundation under the patronage of HM the King. The annual contribution from hotel staff and management was presented

by Chatchawal Supachayanont , hotel general manager, at the Chitralada Palace.

Ulrich Hoffgen (back row, 2nd left), general manager of Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives led management and staff in an operation to clean the beach and area surrounding the resort. This environmental conservation activity was arranged as part of Centara’s corporate social responsibilities and environment policy.

CBRE Clean Water Charity Project

CBRE Thailand constructed a clean water system for Baan Huay Mai Sang, a remote village in Mae Hong Sorn province, as part of the real estate marketing company's 25th anniversary celebration.

A group of 10 CBRE Thailand volunteers were selected from across all business lines to construct a supply and distribution system with a filter tank, 2 water storage silos and 12 latrines.

Working with Karen Hilltribes Trust, which designs, supervises, and monitors these projects, the volunteers also brought stationary and clothes to children in the village.

“I believe our volunteers who lived with the villagers for the duration of the project have gained through experience as much as the villagers and we hope to maintain a longterm relationship with Baan Huay Mai Sang,” said David Simister, CBRE Thailand chairman.

Cruising around

by Derek Franklin

While cruising the waters of Southeast Asia, the luxury liner Crystal Cruises sailed into Thai waters and docked at nearby Laem Chabang. Many guests rushed off to see the sights of Bangkok or spend their money in the shops of Pattaya. One group arrived in Pattaya and spent their time volunteering

at the Redemptorist Vocational School for People with Disabilities. As well as learning about the school and meeting the students, the visitors also spent several hours painting the surrounding fence on the sports court, and they did a wonderful job.

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You & Your Pets Common veterinary questions from readers

by Denise Parker Q: My cat is always inside and there’s no chance she will get pregnant. There are tomcats in the neighborhood but, since she is never outside, why should I get her spayed?

A: Excellent question! One reason to spay your cat is to prevent her from coming into heat (estrus cycle). Cats are seasonally polyestrus, which means they have several short heat cycles during a season of the year. Outdoor cats usually go into heat in late winter, but indoor cats could begin the estrus cycle anytime. During a cycle they often seem very affectionate, vocal and may act like they have fleas or a skin problem. In fact they can become very annoying for days and weeks at a time and seem to be annoying themselves too. Some unspayed cats will develop a problem where the uterus fills with mucous, which is likely to affect the cat’s health. In serious cases, emergency surgery can even be required.

Q: I was always told that a dog or cat should go through at least one cycle before they get spayed as, otherwise, they will never be happy and contented animals. Is this true?

A: No. It’s simply not true. The only proven side-effect – other than being unable to have offspring – is that a spayed animal will experience a decline in daily calorie needs. That means you can feed your cat or dog less after it is spayed or neutered. But many owners go on feeding the same amount after the operation which is why you see so many overweight animals in some people’s houses. Some owners think that the operation itself caused their cat or dog to get fat. It’s not true. Cats and dogs cannot prepare their own meals so it is the owner’s responsibility.

Cats for You in Pattaya

Paul and Sandra, both British expats with big hearts, moved to Pattaya several years ago and decided to devote their time to saving and rehoming sick and abandoned cats and kittens. They have more than 40 cats and kittens ready now to find loving and caring homes in return for all the affection and fun they will show in return. The animals are given to their new owners free-of-charge.

(Most are already vaccinated).

Cats for You is a great and much needed service in our area, but Paul and Sandra point out that adopting a cat or kitten is a longterm commitment with costs such as feeding and veterinary fees.

Many adopters find it’s a good idea to adopt two animals so that they can enjoy each others’ company as well as yours. Contact Paul and Sandra on 0852875004 or look at their useful website http://cats4youinpattaya.webs.com/

Tammy

gingival) to give a general guess about age. Often it’s not possible to be precise. This is because many factors may adversely wear or damage teeth or gums: genetics, diet, trauma and behavior all affect the cat’s or dog’s mouth.

Q: Why do some dogs get ear problems and others not? I have heard that Cocker Spaniels are particularly prone to ear diseases.

A: There are a number of factors which promote infections in external ear tissues. Many breeds tend to have oily skin and coats. The ear tissues including the canal are lined with very thin skin which can become infected with yeast or bacteria. Just add a little moisture from bathing, swimming or ear cleaners and any organisms present will reproduce even faster. Many dogs can swim and do all sorts of things without ever having ear problems, whilst others are prone to infections, scar tissue buildup, ulceration and general discomfort. A proper diet can assist in some cases to help the animal resist infections of all kinds. Placing cotton in the ears can help eliminate water and soap from contacting ear tissues whilst bathing. The gentle removal of any waxy or oily buildup in the outer ear removes material in which infectious organisms can thrive. In chronic cases there may be polyps or a tumor and surgery may be necessary.

Tammy is a really friendly black and white puss living in a cage at our local animal hospital. Sadly she has been diagnosed with feline leukaemia which means she must be an indoor pet so that she cannot pass on the disease to other cats. She needs no special care, just regular vaccinations, and is expected to live a normal lifespan with careful monitoring.

Fab Four

The Fab Four (John, Paula, George and Ringo) were dumped outside a house close to where we live. Luckily the owner of the house heard their cries and brought them into her home for safety. We now have them as temporary adoptions in our shelter. They are still very young but will be ready for new homes in a few short weeks.

Tigger

Tigger, as you can see, is on the naughty side and is now 12 weeks old. For someone special she would make a delightful pet and also has three sisters and a brother also seeking re-accommodation.

(Information contained herein is for informational purposes only and is not meant to substitute for professional veterinary advice.)

Q: How can I tell how old my dog is? My vet thinks she is ten but I feel she is much younger.

A: It’s possible to give an approximate age of a dog or cat when they are very young because their front six incisors, or baby teeth, start to fall out by four months.

With older animals it isn’t so easy. An experienced vet or animal caretaker will look at the degree of tartar, enamel wear and general state of the teeth and gums (called

Did you know?

Flatfish (halibut, flounder, turbot, and sole) hatch like any other “normal” fish. As they grow, they turn sideways and one eye moves around so they have two eyes on the side that faces up.

Sharks and rays also share the same kind of skin: instead of scales, they have small toothlike spikes called denticles. The spikes are so sharp that shark skin has long been used as sandpaper.

Sharks are immune to almost all known diseases.

The largest giant squid ever recorded was captured in the North Atlantic in 1878. It weighed 4 tons. Its tentacles measured 10 m (35 ft) long.

A snail has two pairs of tentacles on its head. One pair is longer than the other and houses the eyes. The shorter pair is used for smelling and feeling its way around. (Some snail species have only one pair of tentacles, thus they have just one eye.)

The tongue of a blue whale is as long as an elephant.

Flip and Flop

Flip and Flop are two young cats who were disabled at birth and cannot walk.

They still enjoy happy and reasonably active lives and, surprisingly, they don’t need much special care. But you need to have plenty of time to give them all the love and attention they need.

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Games

CROSSWORD Across 1. NECKWEAR 4. CARD SUIT 9. LINGERED 10. AT NO TIME 11. SPY 12. PERSON OF HIGH RANK 13. FEMALE ANIMAL 14. ROW 16. RISE & FALL OF SEA 18. DISTRESS SIGNAL 20. DEADLOCK 21. UNACCOMPANIED 24. MASS COMMUNICATIONS 25. SEVERE 26. CHANCED 27. RE-TAKE AN EXAMINATION

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Down 1. PLOT 2. IRON BLOCK 3. REVER CROSSING 5. HANGING JEWELS 6. SEPARATED 7. HERB 8. PROVERB 13. TYPE OF HORSE TRAINING 15. OBSTRUCTS 17. NOT AS BRIGHT 18. DIVIDE BY CUTTING 19. POWERFUL 22. COOKING DEVICES 23. RISE FROM SLEEP

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Solution Issue 12

Brain Tester This week’s quiz is on VILLAINS and MONSTERS

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11. Who played the evil Sir Brack in the 1950s film Prince Valiant?

12. In which decade of the 19th century did Jack the Ripper operate?

13. In which century did the Marquis de Sade put pen to paper?

14. Which number Rillington Place was best avoided?

15. Which Titanic survivor was the number one scapegoat?

16. In which decade did Stalin die?

17. In which year was Hitler born?

18. In which movie did Karloff and Lugosi play chess?

19. Which ship was blamed for ignoring Titanic’s plight?

20. Who was the only villain hanged in Israel since its inception?

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Want to get that Lady Gaga song out of your head? Scientists are now recommending that the way to get a song out of endless loop is to read this page and focus on anagrams, puzzles, riddles—anything challenging to force the music out of your recent memory.

Although this may sound like a lot of work for some, scientists said a good novel may also work. The key is to keep the mind so stimulated so that the lyrics to “Born This Way” won’t keep working their way back in there. But don’t get carried away and try to read Proust; researchers pointed out that if the cognitive task is too difficult, the mind could just shut down and you’ll be back to humming once again

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1. Ghengis Khan; 2. Bride of Frankenstein; 3. Pit and the Pendulum; 4. 20,000; 5. Two; 6. Mrs Bates; 7. USA; 8. Richard III; 9. Five; 10. Two; 11. James Mason; 12. 1880s; 13. Eighteenth; 14. Ten; 15. Bruce Ismay; 16. 1950s; 17. 1889; 18. The Black Cat; 19. Californian; 20. Eichmann.

NEED A CURE FOR SONGS STUCK IN YOUR HEAD?

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1. Which famous and cruel ruler of medieval times ruled the largest empire ever seen?

2. What was the sequel to the 1931 film Frankenstein called?

3. Which of Poe’s horror stories was made twice by Roger Corman in his long career?

4. How many fathoms down was the monster in the movie title?

5. How many murders are committed on screen in Hitchcock’s movie Psycho?

6. Who was supposed to be buried in Green Law Cemetery?

7. In which country was William Joyce, Lord Haw Haw, born?

8. Which English king was buried underneath a car park?

9. How many people were hanged together for the murder of Lincoln?

10. How many monsters appear in the movie Gorgo?

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Pattaya Today is published & edited by Lucksika Natham for Siamese Vision Media Co., Ltd. Office : 221/3 M.11 Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150. Tel: (038) 374-534 Fax: (038) 374-535 E-mail : info@pattayatoday.net Printed at Print 87 Co., Ltd. Naklua, Pattaya City 20150