Vol 13 issue 08 1 15 january 2014

Volume 13, Issue 08

1 - 15 January 2014

What’s Inside:

30 BAHT

GIANT PROPERTY EXTRAVAGANZA UNDER ONE ROOF AT HILTON Universal Group’s Savanna Sands, one of the property developments to be showcased at the exhibition

T

he Pattaya Property Show unfolds next week at the Hilton Pattaya, where more than 50 leading developers and realtors will showcase condominiums, luxury villas, houses, and commercial properties from throughout Thailand. Several yet unannounced luxury launches also will be unveiled, benefiting from the wow factor of Pattaya’s largest-ever property exhibition.

Admission to the four-day extravaganza, Jan. 9 to 12, is free to the public. Opening times are 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Venue

for the show is Hilton Pattaya’s massive 17th floor ballroom above Central Festival Shopping Centre.

Pattaya Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome welcomed the exhibition as encouraging more buyers and investors to the region. “Locals, expats and international visitors will have the opportunity to seeing a huge number of real estate choices conveniently all under one roof at the Hilton Pattaya,” the mayor said. He called the real estate industry “essential for the future plans of Pattaya” inasmuch as it brings large-scale investment as well as new employment opportunities.

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News Con man robs Turkish couple A couple from Ankara lost US$900 after a stranger in a supermarket asked to see their banknotes. Kamil Isik and his wife told police that a pleasant man approached them and asked what country they were from. After saying they were Turkish and answering other questions, the couple said they were using US currency. The stranger explained that he had

never seen US money before, at which point they produced a wad of $50 and $100 dollar for his inspection. Only later did they discover that half of them were missing when the con man returned the wad of bills. At the police station the couple asked how long it would be before their cash was returned. Officers did not reply categorically.

Ladyboy drugged and robbed

In a man-bitesdog tale, a 26-year-old transvestite rushed to the police station to report that she had been drugged and robbed. Chakarn Ariaue said she had met and drank with a Thai man in a North Pattaya café, then went to the stranger’s hotel where a waiter served her a spiked drink. When she awakened from her deep sleep, she found that she had been robbed of two gold necklaces, three gold rings, a watch, a mobile phone and 1,000 baht.

Immigration Police nab scammer A Thai man was arrested on the heels of numerous complaints that wouldbe travelers paid him up front for air tickets that he never delivered. In some instances he did refund cash with checks. However, the checks invariably bounced.

Petch Hotarat was arrested

by Immigration Police at Suvarnabhumi airport as he waited to board a flight to South Korea, presumably with his ill-gotten gains in tow.

Did you hear the one…?

A Kiwi walks into a bar (no joke) and a katoey says to him, “Maybe we go room together you me good time.”

The New Zealander agreed and off they went. Upon getting to the room, however, the New Zealander realized he had run out of money so, of course, he handed his ATM card to the transvestite, told her the PIN number, and instructed her to withdraw no more than 10,000 baht. Subsequently, the ladyboy opened a bottle of beer

Murder victim found in reservoir

The lifeless body of 30-year-old King Suwankham was found in Mabprachan Lake. The man had bullet wounds on his hands and face.

Thongsuk Maliwan said he was

fishing nearby and heard four or five shots ring out in the night. Police said later that the deceased was a food vendor on Walking Street. He had lived with his grandparents.

but before giving it to him she shook the bottle vigorously, explaining that the routine gets rid of foam and improves the taste. So the Kiwi sipped the foamless beer and soon enough passed out. He awakened with a headache but without 300,000 baht in cash and jewelry. Police said the tourist did not know the ladyboy’s name, nor could he describe her appearance. They will investigate but, like the farang whose toilet was stolen, there was very little to go on.

Tourist injured under bus wheel

An Irish tourist was badly hurt when hit by a bus when crossing the road near Walking Street. Eugene Lyons, 41, was rushed to Memorial Hospital once his trapped leg was freed from under the bus’s wheel. The driver of the school bus said he did not notice the man before it was too late to stop.

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News

Siam Royal View offers free berths

Siam Royal View is offering free berth to those who sail to their Koh Chang marina and stay for three nights. The offer, good through the end of June, includes free power and water. Siam Royal View Marina can accommodate wet berths for 75 boats up to 90 ft. long, plus a further 7080 boats, up to 45 ft. long in their dry dock.

Roland Steiner, one of the development principals said, “The largest boat we have received so far was 72 feet long, and we had a catamaran 12 meters wide. However at high tide we can handle up to 90 feet, and our concrete pier can even handle super yachts well over 100 feet.”

With larger yachts being forced to moor in many bays elsewhere, another problem has been insurance. Insurers won’t touch a boat that’s tethered to a mooring in a bay, worried that a typhoon could blow it out to sea or damage it. At Siam Royal View all boats are securely moored, with electricity and water provided on each pier.

Siam Royal View Marina is part of the real estate development which was named Best Villa Development on Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard

The period 25 December to January 1 was marked as usual by many concerts and special events welcoming the New Year, including spectacular firework displays at by the Thai Property Awards; more recently it was named one of the Best Asian Resort Residences 2013.

Yachtsmen and their guests can sleep on their vessels in the new marina or in the resort’s holiday homes with a private, adjacent mooring.

The development also features a Marina Pub, the beach club restaurant, infinity swimming pools, a nine-hole golf course and private beaches. Villas for landlubbers are also available beachside.

For more information go to www.siamroyal-view.com, or visit the Pattaya Property Show at the Hilton Pattaya Jan. 9 through 12.

Online shopping comes to Pattaya Tesco Lotus has extended online shopping to Pattaya and has introduced a new “Click and Collect” service enabling shoppers to order online and pick up their orders from a local store.

Online shopping service was started in Bangkok six months ago, according to Wanna Swuddigul, Tesco Lotus marketing director.

After choosing from among more than 20,000 product lines, the customer can select one of six delivery timeslots available from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days

Russian killed on motorbike A single vehicle accident in North Pattaya left a 26-year-old Russian man dead, according to police. Chore Dnichonko, reportedly speeding on a motorbike, lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a metal barrier. The severely injured man was pronounced dead by the time Sawangboriboon volunteers arrived at the scene.

No other people or vehicles were involved.

Countdown to the New Year

a week. Orders are delivered in specially designed vans with separate compartments for frozen products, chilled

products and non-perishable groceries. As an option, customers may elect to pick up their orders.

the Bali Hai pier area. City Hall estimated that 200 million baht was spent by nearly a million tourists during the last week of 2013.

World Aids day noted

World Health Organization representatives visiting Pattaya School Number 8 on World Aids Day stressed the importance of sex and

drugs education. That topic is particularly vital in Pattaya, said Councilor Choosak, because of the city’s many sex workers.

Another low-cost airline planned Nok Air and Scoot have signed a memorandum of understanding to form NokScoot, a low-cost airline based at Don Mu eang International Airport. It will operate wide-body aircraft on medium and long-haul international routes. Nok and its alliance will have a 51 percent stake and Scoot will have 49 percent. The initial investment will be 2 billion baht. The parties await regulatory approval.

Peddle for good health

Pattaya Court party

Dusit Thani Pattaya sponsored a Cycling for Health Campaign to encourage strong bodies and a greener environment. Chatchawan Suphachanont, hotel general manager, also arranged tree planting and for contributions from local school children who are cycling enthusiasts.

Apichart Thepnu, head judge at Pattaya Provincial Court, threw a New Year’s party for employees.

Highlight of the festivities were the singing judges who donned vintage costumes.

Lawyer pledges fairness

Jo m n a n g Pi e m p o n g s a n h o s t e d a professional ceremony to welcome her new law office to Jomtien Pratumnak Soi 5. Specializing

in debt matters, tax affairs, bail and contract law, Jomnang promised that she would be fair in all criminal and civil cases.

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News Investors welcome ASEAN community German and Japanese companies have opened an automobile spare parts assembly plant in Pin Thong 3 in Chonburi. Bernd Boegel, European president of Daito Lang Mirror, and Masahito Nakamuta, head of the organization in Japan, said they have invested 90 million baht to double growth rate in preparation for the onset of the ASEAN Economic Community in late 2015.

Marriott plans Executive Apartments in Pattaya Marriott International Inc. plans 128 Marriott Executive Apartments in South Pattaya as part of a 249-unit luxury apartment complex. Onyx Development Co., Ltd., which is already marketing the 121 residential apartments on floors 14 to 29, has signed on to manage the executive units on the first 12 floors.

The apartments are to be built in the Pratumnak Hill area, a short walk from beaches

and a short drive to the heart of Pattaya.

The Marriott Executive Apartments South Pattaya will feature spacious studio, oneand two-bedroom apartments with sea views. A restaurant, swimming pool, pool bar and fitness center are planned for the 19th floor.

For further information email info@onyxpattaya.com, visit www.onyxpattaya.com, or call +66(0)80 535 6777.

Christmas concert at Central

The Encounter Church Pattaya and Central Festival Pattaya Beach presented a Christmas concert and Flash Mob at the mall, bringing together some of Pattaya’s most

talented musicians, singers and dancers. Pastors Allan and Rhonda Ward, who assumed leadership of Victory International Family Church last February, changed its

name to The Encounter Church.

Sunday services are open to all at the Royal Twin Palace Hotel, Second Road, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Thai and Russian translations are provided.

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News

PROPERTY EXTRAVAGANZA Exhibition organizer Mike Bridge pointed out that “there is huge rental and ownership potential in Pattaya for its various market segments,” including Pattaya and Bangkok expats, international tourists and the vibrant Thai domestic market with a keen interest on owning second homes on the Eastern Seaboard.

Observers attribute Pattaya’s success in property sales partly to value for money as cities such as Singapore and Hong Kong are four times as expensive. They also cite the upgrading of infrastructure, particularly the multi-lane highway between Pattaya and Suvarnabhumi airport, the prospect of a high-speed rail link by the end of the decade, and Pattaya’s relative immunity to flooding compared with vulnerable areas such as the Central Plains and Bangkok itself. Furthermore, Pattaya now offers accommodations, restaurants and leisure facilities on a par with those of Bangkok in terms of quality and variety.

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Universal Group said, “We are delighted to be the platinum sponsor at the first Pattaya Property Show as it is an excellent initiative to promote the city and the region as a first-class seaside resort.”

Gold sponsor A+ Properties is promoting a lucky draw during the exhibition. Visitors to their stall will be able to enter a lucky draw for the first 30 buyers booking or reserving a unit to win a Nissan Almera.

Another gold sponsor, Blue Sky Group, said the exhibition is an ideal opportunity to promote their projects such as Atlantis Condo Resort, Grande Caribbean Condo Resort, and Venetian Signature Condo Resort.

Exhibitors, who include all the big names in local property, confirmed they would have Thai, English and Russian speaking staff at the show.

For additional information go to www.pattayaproperty show.com or call 082 478 4666 or 086 152 4511.

Hat trick foiled Arrests

down slightly

A foreigner at Mike Shopping Mall was spotted slipping a hat into his clothing, then rushing off without paying. The 52-year-old security guard, Sompong Iampinyo, said the

tourist’s behavior aroused his suspicion; a quick stock-check confirmed that there was a missing hat worth 690 baht.

Police arrested the man who argued that it was a simple mistake.

Colonel Suwan Chiewnavinthawat, superintendent of Pattaya Police station, reported that there were 11,025 arrests in 2013 compared with 11,638 in 2012. He said, however, that the figures disguised many features including a rise in the number of street crimes and a drop in crimes against property.

Six Thai men beat lone tourist A 48-year-old man was badly beaten after he quarreled with a motorbike taxi boy who then brought his friends into the fray.

Maltese Michael Gassar and his Thai girlfriend had bought jewelry and enjoyed some drinks before taking a motorbike taxi to an ATM. When the cash machine snatched his card and refused to dispense his card or any cash, Gassar became angry and repeatedly kicked the

machine. The taxi driver tried to restrain the foreigner to no avail.

Instead, the two argued while the farang continued to assault the ATM. At this point, the Thai man reportedly called upon six friends who readily attacked the lone Maltese man—beating him with a metal rod and a beer bottle. Neither the victim nor his girlfriend could identify the assailants. Gassar is in hospital recovering from his injuries.

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News Elephant parade Children’s day conference Hotel celebrates enlightenment

Sakchai Taenghor, Banglamung district officer, presided over a conference to encourage young people to understand discipline, order, responsibility and democracy. He allowed a group of children into his office to see the radio communication equipment and other technology.

Sontaya Kunplome, former culture minister, presided over the opening of a “lantern elephant parade” at Pha Khao Cheechan Park near Sattahip. The parade was joined by cadets and school children in traditional garb. Sontaya said the parade celebrates 2,600 years of Buddha enlightenment.

More birthday wishes

Chanyuth Hengtrakul, chief executive of Sophon Cable, was among many VIPs on hand to extend birthday wishes to Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome as he turned 40.

Pattaya marketing improved

Pattaya City Council has introduced a Geoinformation System to promote local tourism in a freshly-designed website which shows the geographical location of attractions and displays photos of local facilities. The website, www.pattaya. go.th, enables businesses to promote their goods or services, and is accessible by mobile applications.

More temples renovated

Central Festival Pattaya Beach, Pattaya Waterworks and Nong Nooch Gardens funded improvements at several more Chonburi temples, including Wat Chaimongkhol, South Pattaya. Toilets were installed or improved, and gardens created to improve the appearance of these popular religious centres.

Banyan Tree Bangkok voted Leading City Hotel Banyan Tree Bangkok was voted the World’s Leading City Hotel at the 20th World Travel Awards in Doha, Qatar.

Nopparat Aumpa, hotel general manager, said, “Winning this recognition is a testament to our associates’ dedication in offering first-class service. Our commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences is at the heart of everything we do and, I believe, what has led to our receiving this wonderful accolade.”

In a press release, the hotel described itself as an “iconic destination for leisure and business travellers alike,” offering “a sanctuary for the senses with unparalleled panoramic cityscapes, elegantly decorated guest rooms, world-class cuisine, renowned

legendary service and the Banyan Tree Club Lounge with integrated spa facilities”

in the heart of Bangkok’s central business and embassy district.

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News

20 bands compete Pattaya in 2013 Perhaps the most remarkable thing about Pattaya over the past 12 months has been its independence from Bangkok, a mere 100 km away. Although the capital was in political turmoil for the last few weeks of the year, the cash registers of Pattaya continued to ring regardless. Indeed, it is arguable that the attempted people’s coup (prachaa phiwat) in the metropolis actually stimulated Pattaya commercially as tourists, expats and locals exited from Bangkok during the height of the disorder.

Absolutely nothing must interfere with the business of making money in our fair city.

Scams and rip-offs Pattaya’s bad publicity has been of its own making. Tales of Jet-Ski rip-offs have persisted throughout the year in spite of periodic attempts by local bureaucrats and policemen to say the issue has been “resolved”. The establishment of a tourist court has been helpful, although many commentators have exaggerated what it can do. This court is not a separate entity but liaises with other elements of the judicial system. Thus the tourist court does not prosecute or judge offenders but can adjudicate civil disputes provided both parties agree. We also discovered that this court can award compensation–again assuming all parties agree to the adjudication.

More than 20 bands competed at Central Festival Pattaya Beach. Composed mostly of young people, the

bands competed in marching, concert, drum line and street parade, amongst other categories.

Charity bowl at SFX Cinema

Poisonous drinks Also on the negative front, there appears to have been a rise in the number of Mickey Finns--a drug-laden beverage which an unsuspecting tourist drinks whilst expecting sex from the prostitute he has hired. The tourist falls asleep and later wakes up with a thick head but without his money and other valuables. It may be significant that many of the thieves apparently break into room safes with great ease. The best advice is to avoid street pickups.

Ladyboys again It may or may not be true that the majority of Pattaya’s ladyboys have jobs in banks, restaurants and hotels. But it’s best to assume the ones standing under palm trees watching for coconuts are not of this kind. As European, Australian and American tourists have wised up to the activities of these transsexual prostitutes, they have increasingly turned their attention to the more recent tourist nationalities who may be more naïve. Thus Indians and candidates from the Middle East have been at the forefront of the many ladyboy scams. Maybe the Chinese will be next.

Who knows?

And the good news There has been lots of it. The Pattaya property market has remained intact even as more and more construction sites are seen around town. Occupancy rates in many hotels have run ahead of 2012 levels. As the number of Europeans and Americans has declined, at any rate relatively speaking, the majority of Pattaya tourists are now Russians, Chinese and Indians. As an example, it has been noted that more people from the sub-continent visited Pattaya in the last year than did Brits–traditionally the biggest stakeholders in the city over the past 20 years. The main leisure outposts of the Europeans now appear to be the Pattaya quiz leagues and the bridge club.

The Mayor’s Cup went to the winners of the 2013 Charity Bowling Competition at SFX Cinema Pattaya Beach.

The event raised funds benefiting local groups including eyeglasses for the elderly and scholarships for youngsters.

Catwalks for the young

Embassies and stuff The British embassy opted out of Pattaya in 2013 and any assistance still offered here is either non-existent or low key. It’s a far cry from 2009 when the then ambassador explained a fully-staffed office was needed to give the Pattaya Brits the quality attention they deserved. Meanwhile other countries have been appointing honorary consuls in Pattaya to serve their nationals, the latest being the Indians. It can only be a matter of time before the Chinese join the line, although the Chinese obsession with package tours and group travel (for reasons of economy) may reduce the number of disasters befalling them.

The Awards Anyway we end the year with the Around Town service prizes for 2013: Most ingenious scam: The gang of masseuses who serviced customers whilst one of their number hid under a bed to empty the pockets of discarded trousers whose owners were enjoying themselves.

Biggest boob: Surely the surprise visit by the regional top cop to our local police station which found that there was a general lack of cleanliness and some disgusting toilets. Actually nothing new there.

Child models compete in the finals of Thai Super Model at Fashion Island. The winners, Olven Meldrum

and Reya Tyler, were judged based on skills, personality and catwalk gait.

Beach Football meet in Jomtien

Best excuse: The man riding pillion on a motorbike who said he had no idea that the driver was a snatch-thief who went around stealing from pedestrians. Both the riders were arrested after snatching a gold necklace but the pillion guy denied the charge of aiding and abetting, saying that he was merely hitching a lift.

Best road improvement: The one way system introduced at the bottom of the hill on Thappraya Road, adjacent to the overhead pass. Vehicles must now turn left or right but cannot proceed straight on to Second Road. The move has actually improved traffic flow against all the predictions.

Second best improvement: The Pattaya beach road widening scheme has been beneficial all round. At first the extra lane was used as a parking option for cars and buses, but the system now seems to have sorted itself out. For once, well done City Hall. And a happy New Year.

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

Pattaya Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome presided as teams from 12 European, Asian and African nations competed

in Jomtien in the Ninth International Beach Football Tournament.

Pattaya Today's lifestyle, travel and culture guide

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Vol. 02 No. 01 | Jan 1-15 2014

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Surat Thani’s Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan

Top three drives 2013

Le Strogonoff

explore L6

automotive L15

gourmet corner L10

Liver spots, excessive pigmentation and other skin blemishes!

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by Mick and Di Barker

Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas

Phuket’s ultimate resort experience This stunning new eco-friendly resort on Mai Khao Beach on the northwest coast of Phuket offers 11 km of undeveloped sands and oceans--part of the Sirinat National Park. Phuket International Airport is conveniently nearby.

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Vol. 02 No. 01 | Jan 1-15 2014

Pattaya mayor turns 40

Level 34, Hilton Pattaya

eve n ts c a le n d a r THE BEACH ELECTRONIC MUSIC FESTIVAL 2014 Date: 20-21 January 2014, Monday-Tuesday Venue: Maya Beach Club (South Sairee Beach, Koh Tao) Activities: After last year’s success, Maya Beach Club proudly presents The Beach Electronic Music Festival 2014. It's happening again and it’s going to be bigger and better than last year. A first of its kind, the two-day electronic music festival features some of the biggest DJs to tour Thailand.

For more information or reservations please contact: www.thebeachkohtao.com

THE 18TH TRANG UNDERWATER WEDDING CEREMONY Pattaya’s young mayor is getting older. Itthiphol Kunplome’s 40th birthday last month was celebrated by monks in the early morning and a day-long party which drew young and old citizens alike—some of whom had already celebrated their 100th birthdays and more.

Itthiphol, who earned law degrees in America as well as Thailand, is the brother of Sontaya Kunplome, minister of Culture, and Wittaya Kunplome, chairman of the Provincial Administrative Council of Chonburi and member of Parliament.

Hilton Pattaya wishes mayor happy birthday

Birthday cake for Pattaya mayor

Date: 10-12 February 2014, Monday -Wednesday Venue: Trang Trang invites all lovers and special guests from all over the world to participate in and witness the romantic and fantastic wedding ceremony at one of Thailand’s best known sand beaches with peaceful atmosphere.

Activities: The procession of brides and grooms parades through the city streets to the traditional Thai wedding ceremony. The spectacular ceremony is complete with the underwater registration procedure in which the brides and grooms are required to be certified divers.

For more information or reservations please contact: Trang Chamber of Commerce Tel : +66 (0) 75 225 353, +66 (0) 75 210 238 Email : info@underwaterwedding.com www.underwaterwedding.com

As Pattaya Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome (center) celebrates his 40th birthday, he is joined by a number of business and community leaders including Rudolf Troestler, general manager, and Treamprom Klinhom, marketing communications manager, Hilton Pattaya.

The management of Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa present a cake to Pattaya Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome on his 40th birthday. In photo (from left) are Asanee Intaring, marketing communications manager; Itthiphol’s mother, Steel Kunplome; Itthiphol; Terapan Chuaprasert, executive assistant manager, and Matthew Fryar, hotel director of operations.

Centara Grand celebrates mayor’s birthday The management of Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts Pattaya extend birthday greetings to Pattaya Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome (centre) while his mother, Steel Kunplome (third from left) welcomes guests to the mayor’s residence. Others in photo (from left) are Usa Pookpant, PR manager, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort; Wuthisak Pichayagan, EAM on food & beverage, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort; Panas (Alex) Jureeratana, general manager, Centara Grand Modus Resort & Spa; Dominique Rongé, general manager, Centara Grand Phratamnak Resort, and Benjaporn Charoenjit, sales & PR manager, Centara Grand Modus Resort & Spa.

Kim sings at Hard Rock fundraiser Hard Rock Hotel & Cafe Pattaya hosted A Night with a Diva, Jennifer Kim, this year’s annual charity fundraiser concert.

Following a cocktail reception and a buffet dinner, Kim, accompanied by the soulful sounds of Koh (Mr. Saxman), performed songs from her album as well as Kid Teung Tur Took Tee (Tee Yoo Kon Diow), Mai Yom Mod Wang, Ruk Kham Khob Fah, Ruk Tae, Yue Liang Dai Biao Wo De Xin, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, and I Love the Night Life.

The night also featured the auctioning of limited edition photographs of His Majesty the King, a gold-plated sculpture of the Buddha from Bodh Gaya from India, a 99.9 percent gold-image of Lord Ganesha crafted by Prima Art, a hand-made tea set of Royal Bone China, hand-painted Thai Benjarong, and elephant paintings donated by General Kanit Permsub. Finally, Kim’s signed guitar sold for 51,111 baht, bringing total proceeds to more than 1.2 million baht, which will be donated to H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Charity Fund, Baan Nok School, Wat Sawang Arom School, Rock the Farm, and Rock the Lunch.

AVRIL LAVIGNE LIVE IN BANGKOK 2014 Date: 11 February 2014, Tuesday Venue: Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani Activities: Pop-punk princess Avril Lavigne is on her way back to Bangkok to kick start 2014 in high style. The talented singer, songwriter and punk fashion trendsetter first burst on the music scene at the age of 17, with her breakthrough debut album, Let Go, in 2002 featuring the smash singles Complicated and Sk8r Boi. Lavigne’s biggest hit to date, Girlfriend, was the top digital track of 2007, selling more than 7.3 million downloads in eight different languages. Avril has just released her latest, self-titled album which has debuted in the Top 5 album charts across the globe. During her twelve years in the music industry, Lavigne has racked up an amazingly consistent catalogue of chart-topping songs and she’ll be delighting the crowd at Impact Arena with one hit after another.

For more information or reservations please contact: Thai Ticket Major Tel: 02 262 3838 www.thaiticketmajor.com

SILVERLAKE MUSIC FESTIVAL 2014 Date: 1 March 2014, Saturday Venue: Silverlake Vineyard, Pattaya Activities: Rock your senses of wonder with the return of one of the greatest outdoor international music festivals in Thailand. This time, they are bringing the top international bands from around the world to perform at the festival, including many well-known local bands.

Experience live performances from international bands Nine Inch Nails, The Hives, Foals, The Used, Taking Back Sunday, and Rebelution.

For more information or reservations please contact: Thai Ticket Major Tel: 02 262 3456 www.silverlakemusicfest.com

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Year-end thank you party at Hilton Pattaya

Nearly 80 corporate and travel agents were at Hilton RACE—the year-end thank you party hosted by Rudolf Troestler, general manager of Hilton Pattaya. The day-long event began with team synergy activities that included the Pattaya Floating Market and Mimosa, then went on to a cooking competition, lunch buffet at Seaboard Ballroom, team bowling at SF Strike Bowl at Central Festival Pattaya Beach, and sunset session at Horizon where prizes were presented.

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Holiday Festivities Santa visits Bazaar at Bangkok Hospital Pattaya Bangkok Hospital Pattaya’s annual Charity Christmas Bazaar saw the return of Santa with a hefty load of gifts for children, while the event featured an equally hefty load of activities for kids as well as adults.

In addition to games, the day included performances from organizations such as the Father Ray Foundation, Seven Flowers Kindergarten, International School of Chonburi, Mercy Center, St. Nicholas Church, Pattaya Christian Church and others.

The BHP event also provided an opportunity for Pattaya community groups to sell their products to support the needy. Product booths were set up by Mercy Center, Ban Jing Jai, Father Ray Foundation, Fountain of Life, Pattaya Orphanage, Jesters Care for Kids, Scandinavian Expat Club, Pattaya International Ladies Club, German Speaking Ladies Club, Sparrow Home of Children, Foreign Police Volunteers, Take Care Kids Thailand Foundation, Women with a Mission, Rayong Bakery, YWCA, Rotary Clubs, Lions Clubs, Marriott Hotel, Bella Villa Group and Best Western Pattaya.

Revenue generated through the event was donated to the needy in the area.

Christmas Wine Experience

Oxford’s year-end party

After a break of several months, the Wine Experience returned at the Amari Orchid Pattaya for the Christmas season, this time outdoors in the Amari Garden Lounge. Fine food coupled with a range of wines including quality red, white and sparkling wines. Highlight of the evening was the German Christmas favorite: hot mulled red wine, which was carefully prepared by one of the Amari’s female staff. The wines were paired with tapas, a big roast turkey, hams with potatoes and sushi. Entertainment was provided by the Amari’s singing duet.

The evening finished with desserts, such as rich Christmas cake and the heavy English ‘plum pudding’ that went well with the sparkling wines. The next monthly Amari Wine Experience, normally around 890 baht, will be at the end of January.

Nongprue Mayor Mai Chayanit, guest of honor at Oxford Junior School’s year-end party at the Amari Orchid Pattaya, stressed the importance of education in an address to participants. The evening showcased performances by nursery, kindergarten, and primary students. Highlights were Music in Real Life, which reflected typical school day activities, and the presentation of presents to students.

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SATURDAY DINNER BBQ SEAFOOD BUFFET

THB 899 NETT

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Diplomats at Amari Orchid Pattaya

Sririta Jensen at Centra Central Station

South Korean’s consul general, Jun SungSoo, and embassy counselor Shin Sung-Chul (second and third from right, respectively) seen at Amari Orchid Pattaya with Kris Jeeramongkol (left), counsellor to Pattaya’s mayor, and Brendan Daly (right), hotel general manager.

Actress Sririta Jensen seen here during her stay at Centra Central Station Hotel Bangkok. In photo (left to right) are Natthanicha Gurvani, hotel senior sales manager, Sririta, and the hotel’s Asdang Sukwises, general manager, and Kiattiyos Aprachitpairin, front office manager.

Chula Ratchamontri at A-ONE hotel Pattaya Muslim community leader Dr. Aziz Pitakkumpol (center) seen on his arrival at A-One The Royal Cruise Hotel. Also in photo are Somkiet Ratanaopath (fourth from right), hotel managing director, and members of the management team.

First guests at Centara Grand Modus Resort & Spa Pattaya

His Excellency Mom Rajawongse Thepkamol Devakula, privy councilor, and his wife, Khunying Kwanta Devakula, the first guests at the newly-opened Centara Grand Modus Resort & Spa Pattaya, were welcomed by Alex Jureeratana (far right), general manager, and Kanokros Sakdanares (far left), corporate director of marketing communications of Centara Hotels & Resorts.

Khunying Suchitra Mongkolkiti at Centara Hotel Hat Yai

Opas Damrongkul (far right), general manager of Centara Hotel Hat Yai, with Khunying Suchitra Mongkolkiti (third from right), honorary advisor of board committee of Central Plaza Hotel Public Company Limited, Mookda Uahwatanasakul (second from right) and Rattana Norapallop (third from left) as guests arrive at the hotel during a trip to inspect Hat Yai province. Also seen in the photo are Jirapong Sungthong (far left), room divisions manager, and Suwanna Saikeaw (second from left), executive housekeeper.

Celebrity at Regent Phuket Cape Panwa

Celebrity model Sonia Couling and her husband seen here while vacationing at the Regent Phuket Cape Panwa, where Brice Borin is general manager.

The couple enjoyed the beach, fine dining, and tennis lessons from the Regent’s professional coach.

PR exec visits Centara Grand Mirage

Robert John Lohrmann (centre), general manager of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, presents Festive Hamper to Earth Saisawang (third from right), president of the Thailand Hotel PR Association, on her visit to The Lost World’s Theme hotel. Also in photo are Usa Pookpant (third from left), hotel PR manager, Thanvalai Vorapojphaisan (right) and Arpaphicah Suwannapan.

SATURDAY 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM CALL 038 933 888

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Vol. 02 No. 01 | Jan 1-15 2014

Level 34, Hilton Pattaya

Surat Thani’s Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan PHOTOS COURTESY OF TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND (TAT)

Koh Nang Yuan

Koh Tao

It takes only 15 minutes to get to Koh Nang Yuan by speedboat from Koh Tao. The island actually consists of three islands that connect forming a Y shape. You can stroll from one to the other during the low tide.

Do Climb up to the viewpoint. Even taking the steps is going to make you sweat, but the view of the three connected islands is breathtaking and well worth the walk. The venue is ideal for snorkeling along the shore for shallow coral reefs, or for sea kayaking around the island. If you have enough energy left, row back to Koh Tao for more of a challenge!

Koh Tao (Turtle Island) is one of the most beautiful islands on the Gulf of Thailand. Initially uninhabited, the island later earned recognition following a visit to the island by King Rama V in 1899, when he engraved his ‘Jor Por Ror’ monogram onto a huge rock near Sairee Beach. Today, the spot has become a significant tourist site.

Some 50 years after the King’s visit, a senior government representative took his family to officially open Sairee Beach, and the population has continued to grow ever since.

By the late 1980’s, Koh Tao started enjoying a reputation amongst backpackers and divers for its beautiful marine life and coral reefs, and is today one of the major dives sites in Thailand.

Do The island is the place to go for scuba diving lessons, with various courses and programmes run by professional schools. Explore the underwater world with an ‘eat, sleep and dive’ package. You might even catch a glimpse of the gentle giant whale shark. Try Ban’s Diving Resort (www.bansdivingresort.com), one of the island’s most reputable diving schools located at a resort. Big Blue Diving Resort (www.bigbluediving. com), a world-class diving school, is popular amongst Japanese. Big Bubble (www.kohtao-diving.com) is a long-established dive school.

Crystal Dive Resort (www.crystaldive. com) is an award-winning PADI dive centre. New Haven (www. newheavendiveschool.com) is one of the first on the island. Or take off that heavy old oxygen tank and dive free at Apnea Total (www.apnea-total. com), a free-diving (no air!) training course. Hold your breath and dive deep!

Get mobile, and rent a motorcycle, ATV, or mountain bike to get around

the island, though you’d need to leave your passport (for foreigners) or ID before taking out your ride.

Alternatively, take one of the island’s many taxis, but be warned, negotiate a price before the ride! Or put on a good pair of walking shoes and tour the island on foot. For those with a vehicle, drive along the main road connecting the north and south of the island, and rediscover the beaches with wind in your hair!

Don’t forget to drive up to the Dusit Buncha Resort, where two natural rocks make up the gateway to the beautiful Koh Nang Yuan view point.

They say that someone once swam from to Koh Nang Yuan, but be warned: this is not for everyone! At the south end of the main road, take the rocky route to the John-suwan Mountain Viewpoint.

Shop For a tiny island, there are plenty of mini marts and supermarkets for food and other essentials. As for scuba equipment, the variety is amazing. Check out: Aqua Lung (Mae Had post office Road), and Dave’s Diver’s Den (main road to Chalok Ban Kao), where you’ll also find funky beachwear, ethnic and unique jewelry made from coconut shells, bamboo, silver and precious stones.

Eat Blue Wind (north Sairee Beach) for freshly-baked bread and pastries served in a lovely house and restaurant. Café del Sol Restaurant and Pizzeria (Mae Had, daily 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.), homemade pasta and pizza with wine selection plus free Wi-Fi. Chalok Harbour Restaurant (www.kotaoresort.com, daily 10 to 10, serves western and Thai food, Rim Lae Restaurant (www. kohtaocabanaresort.com, daily 8a.m. to 10 p.m.), offers authentic Thai and international dishes with BBQ

grill plus free Wi-Fi. Starlight (www. charmchureevilla.com, daily 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.), enjoy a romantic candle-lit dinner with Thai and Asian cuisine under the stars, overlooking the picturesque Jansom Bay. Play Buddha on the Beach (Chalok Ban Kao at Buddha View, daily 4:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.), an atmospheric beach bar where you’ll find the best mix of indie, rock, funk and soul music. The Castle (www.thecastlekohtao.com, daily 10 pm. till late), an open-air, multi-level nightclub and on-theisle party paradise. Club h2o (lower Chalok Ban Kao Road, daily 10 p.m. till late), with open-air dance floor, is set in a Miami-style villa resort and features international guest DJs. Elvis (www.charmchureevilla.com, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.), an afternoon beach bar with tasty snacks, shakes and cocktails. FIZZ beach lounge (north Sairee beach, daily 4 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.) offers funky sounds and a chilled-out ambience.

Top 5 things in

Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan 1. A whole new world Discover a glorious underwater world and make friends with the fish and other creatures! Sign up for a course at one of the many dive schools on the island.

2. Discover the island Explore the island’s beautiful secluded beaches by trekking, mountain biking, motorcycling or rock climbing.

3. Shore swimming The clear blue sea us perfect for swimming close to shore; if you’re a strong swimmer, try swimming Koh Nang Yuan.

4. Go home with a tan Take it slow. Pick up your favorite book, get comfortable and lie under the sun for a beautiful holiday sun tan.

5. Marine exploration Salute the island’s calm turquoise-blue sea, whose gentle waves and currents make it an ideal venue to kayak along the shores.

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Happy Hour at our pool bars BUY 1 GET 1 FREE

Vol. 02 No. 01 | Jan 1-15 2014

SUNDAY - THURSDAY 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM CALL 038 933 888

Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas >> from L1

The main highlight of this extraordinary resort is undeniably the Splash Jungle Water Park which is Phuket’s largest water themed attraction with 12 waterslides including the exhilarating Boomerango and Super Bowl slide, a wave pool, and 335 metres of meandering lazy river. Access to the water park is complimentary for all in-house guests. The beachside oval-shaped pool has a designated children’s area plus another swimming pool with a separate Jacuzzi and jet streams nestled amongst the guest rooms. Health and well-being are also featured and facilities include a state-ofthe-art fitness centre, the famous Centara Spa Cenvaree. Meditation and yoga classes are held several times a week. Younger guests are well taken care of with the signature Kids’ Club which features Camp Safari for children aged four to nine and E-Zone for teenagers.

Leisure activities are plentiful and varied including beach volleyball, Thai boxing, water polo, sunset bike tours and initiation to scuba diving in the main pool while excursions for island hopping and snorkeling can all be arranged.

Resort accommodation totals 275 rooms, suites and villas, many of which boast ocean views and feature self-catering facilities thereby delivering additional flexibility and comfort for guests. Total living space ranges from 30 to 495 square metres with all units decorated in a soothing colour

palate with natural wood. Three and four penthouses and villas are exclusively equipped with a majestic pool of up to 40 square metres and are ideal for families and groups who long for the ultimate resort experience. Guests staying in designated penthouses and villas enjoy a host of additional benefits including access to the private Club Lounge, five meal presentations daily and evening cocktails.

When it comes to dining, guests are spoilt for choice with a variety of locations and cuisines which can be enjoyed poolside or at the heart of the Water Park. Sunset Breeze Restaurant & Bar offers all-day dining with international and Thai fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Azzurro, the resort’s signature Italian restaurant, serves a full a la carte menu of authentic dishes in a convivial ambiance. The latest Thai restaurant called Suan Bua delivers spicy Thai flavours in traditional

surroundings. The Jungle Deli offers comfort food and dishes with an international and Thai flavour while Coconut Café and Splash Bar, located inside the Water Park, offer even more culinary delights for the whole family. In-room dining includes the very best of Thai and international cuisines and guests staying in villas can enjoy a pre-arranged barbeque in their very own garden.

With accommodation options ranging from beautifully appointed deluxe rooms to generous penthouses and luxury villas with private pools, this eco-designed resort takes the family-friendly concept to a whole new level.

Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas Mai Khao Beach Phuket Tel: (07) 637 2000 Fax (07) 637 2017 Email cgwp@chr.co.th www.centarahotelsresorts.com

HOT SUMMER PROMOTION 20% off everything except set menu

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SUNDAY BRUNCH

THB 1,500.- free THB 2,200 .free flow soft drinks flow drinks & wines Vol. 02 No. 01 | Jan 1-15 2014

SUNDAY 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM CALL 038 933 888

Mick & Di The Food Lovers

thefoodloverspattayatoday@msn.com

Glancing back at 2013 Glancing back at our reviews in 2013 we were amazed to discover how many restaurants we reviewed were signature establishments in hotels rather than standalone bistros or restaurants. Gone are the days of yore when Basil Fawlty and his trusty waiter Manual and chef Terry bumbled through their service patronising and even insulting their guests, hilarious as it was, times have changed and changed dramatically too. Certainly here in Pattaya five-star hotel dining has never been better. Hotels now strive as much for independent recognition as they do to offer hotel guests a showpiece culinary outlet. Even the accepted practice of “plus, plus” is dwindling and gourmet meals and wine dinners are offered at competitive prices. Here are a few of the hotel restaurants in which we had the pleasure to dine during 2013.

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort on Wong Amat beach, North Pattaya, is host to a coterie of restaurants offering the gamut of all day dining to the excellence of their Italian signature restaurant, Acqua. Chef Alberto has carved out a special niche for Acqua.

He choreographs the restaurant with professionalism and style and his signature dishes dazzle with contemporary chefery. The abundance of impeccably-sourced luxury ingredients contributes to place this stylish restaurant firmly in Pattaya’s upper culinary circle. A 3-course meal for one without drinks would cost in the region of B.1,200.

Tel: 038 301 234 www.centarahotelsresorts.com.

The Hilton Pattaya is another dazzling venue. The astonishing Horizon Restaurant and Lounge floats atop the architectural phenomenon that is Hilton Pattaya. This is a top table dining destination on so many levels.

Situated on the 34th floor with jaw dropping views over the bay of Pattaya it is one extraordinary venue with an haute cuisine to rival any. While chefs in their Flare restaurant have dug deep into their traditional roots to produce a menu of “resurgence” Thai cuisine reintroducing the flavours and ingredients of yesteryear.

Thaitastic flavours with astounding presentations. Daily changing gourmet buffet lunches and dinners are offered in The Edge restaurant with exceedingly reasonable prices starting at B.420 net for weekday brunches with the full scale gourmet Sunday brunch receiving many accolades.

Tel: (03) 825 3000 or visit www.pattaya.hilton.com.

Centara Grand Phratamnak Resort in Soi 5, Phratamnak Hill is the latest and glitziest member of the group to open in Pattaya. Situated on the penthouse floor (9th) with stunning views, extraordinary décor complete with moon jelly fish aquariums, it presents progressive Italian cuisine with chef Luca Pulese’s contemporary twist. The food is truly amazing showcasing the traditions of classical Italian cuisine but with cutting edge cooking. This is a stunning addition to Pattaya’s entire restaurant landscape. A 3-course meal here (without drinks) would cost in the region of B.1,200. There is also a pizza menu.

Mantra Restaurant & Bar, although a standalone restaurant, is under the auspices of the Amari Orchid Pattaya. Its originality lies in the fact that it comprises of seven regional specific kitchens offering Japanese, Indian, Chinese, Mediterranean (including pizzas), the grill and lava stone area plus the huge fish tanks. The ambiance is chic trendy and dynamic. It can be relaxed and cool in the main dining area, private and intimate snuggled into one of the romantic coves on the upper balcony, or an evening of candlelit enjoyment on the al fresco terrace. Sunday brunch comes highly recommended. It is a popular stylish venue offering a wealth of cuisines, to suit all pockets, served in a beautifully chic architectural phenomenon. A three-course meal for one (without drinks) would cost in the region of B.800.

Tel: (038) 306 337 or visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.

Tel: (038) 429 591 or visit www.mantra-pattaya.com.

The Royal Cliff’s awardwinning restaurants offer gourmet cuisine from around the world: Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Italian, Thai and new world European, but the jewel in the crown must be their Royal Grill Room & Wine Cellar. From the moment you enter and are shown to your table (ladies receiving an orchid corsage) you just intuitively know how wonderful the evening is going to be. From its stylish interior bedecked in the richness of teakwood and the soaring arched windows, the cool wine cellar, the sound of the resident pianist tinkling the ivories, it just oozes with luxury, extravagance and pleasure. The daily set 3- and 4-course menu is a charmer and at only B.750++ and B.850 ++ respectively is also a real bargain.

Pullman Pattaya Hotel G has a different culinary event most nights of the week in their Beach Club Restaurant but one of our favourites is their Tuesday night Bistro menu.

This 3-course set menu is B.690 net with bottles of French wine from B.450 or by the glass B.100. This weekly changing gourmet menu offers luxurious and extravagant choices. From the appetisers, Mick chose the Parma ham and Brie cheese while I opted for the pan seared foie gras with maple syrup and summer greens. Both were top notch items worthy of any fine dining restaurant. The foie gras in particular with its silky richness was absolutely sublime. Seafood and porcini chowder soup was another option or seared beef tenderloin served with Provencal vegetables. Check their website for more culinary events. Pullman Pattaya Hotel G is on Wong Amat Beach, (off Sois 16 or 18) Naklua Road.

Tel: (038) 250 421 or visit www.royalcliff.com. Closed Tuesdays.

Tel: (038) 411 940-8 or visit www.pullmanpattayahotelG.com.

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F&B Promotions Celebrate Chinese New Year

Strawberry Lovers

Thai Culinary Class

at Benihana, Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa

at Vistas Lobby Lounge, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya

at Elements Restaurant, Sheraton Pattaya Resort

Throughout the month of January, strawberry lovers are in for a treat during January at Vistas. Chocolate strawberry tart and an apple jelly crumble with vodka mousse are certain to delight the sweet toothed.

The prices start at just only 110++ baht.

Vistas Lobby Lounge is located in the main lobby of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya and opens daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Special buy 1 get 1 free on all cakes during happy hours between 07:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Celebrate Chinese New Year, authentic Chinese flavours prepared by our talented team of Teppanyaki chefs.

Our Wealthy set menu features steamed red garoupa with soya sauce, tiger prawn with Chinese curry powder and shredded lamb with garlic and chilli.

Indulge in our Longevity set menu, steamed snow fish with soya sauce, scallop with black peppercorn sauce and beef tenderloin with Cantonese onion sauce.

Both menus also include spicy Szechuan soup with crab meat, deep fried soft shell crab salad with ginger dressing, Hong Kong kale with oyster sauce, steamed Japanese rice, fresh seasonal fruits and a selection of Chinese tea.

For more information or reservations, please contact (038) 301 234 ext 4280.

For reservation please contact Benihana, Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa at 038 412 120 ext 1395.

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya would like to invite you to join on the beach for a magnificent Chinese banquet to welcome in the year of the horse. Be entertained by traditional Chinese dancing and watch the dramatically loud lion dance to ensure health, wealth and prosperity to the year ahead.

From 18:00 hrs to 23:00 hrs on Friday, 31 January 2013, on the beach. Price 1,999++ baht including soft drinks.

Love is in the air at The Okura Prestige Bangkok The Okura Prestige Bangkok aims to match the mood of the most romantic weekend of the year with a choice of dining options, new signature cocktails created by guests, sweet sensations at La Pâtisserie and a Limited Edition Valentine’s Hamper as the perfect love gift.

Valentine’s Day, named after the 3rd century Roman saint, is traditionally the romantic day of the year but the celebrations at The Okura Prestige Bangkok extend throughout the entire weekend (14-16 February 2014).

Chinese New Year Kung Hei Fat Choi at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya

For more information or table reservations, call (038) 301 234 ext 4397 or email: irdcmbr@chr.co.th

“Lui e Lei” Valentine’s Day Romance at Rossini’s, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit

The hotel’s romantic dining choices begin at the signature Japanese restaurant Yamazato with a set lunch priced at 800++ baht. Dinner options include a special Teppanyaki menu featuring grilled lobster and Japanese beef sirloin priced at 3,500++ baht.

Up & Above restaurant offers a four-course set menu priced at 4,200++ baht per couple.

Elements restaurant provides a sparkling choice with a fivecourse set dinner created by new chef de cuisine Henry Jordan that includes a complimentary bottle of pink sparkling wine. This special Valentine’s dinner is priced at 9,900++ baht per couple.

From 10 to 17 February 2014 at Up & Above Bar, guests can create their own signature love cocktails by choosing from a tray of ingredients and mixing with Prosecco (2,500++ baht) or Champagne (5,500++ baht). The best cocktail created on Valentine’s Day (14 February 2014), as judged by hotel sommelier Marc Bittner, will win a dining voucher for two.

Above prices are subject to service charge and government tax.

Finally, La Pâtisserie, the hotel’s retail outlet on the first floor, offers a tempting selection of themed items including a red velvet Valentine’s cake priced at 700 baht net. The hotel has also created a Limited Edition Valentine’s Hamper. Each red Hamper simply oozes affection and includes a selection of top quality items such as a bottle of pink sparkling wine, caviar , ‘love creations’ from the pastry chef including a Valentine’s cake, pralines, macaroons and cookies plus, of course, a red rose. These limited edition Valentine’s hampers are priced at 6,999 baht net.

Reservations are recommended, please call 02 687 9000 or email fb@okurabangkok.com or visit www.okurabangkok.com for more information.

Delight your sweetheart with a romantic Valentine's Day dinner at Rossini’s. The award-winning restaurant’s intimate Tuscan villa setting is the perfect venue for an unforgettable night of romance, fine dining and exceptional wines.

To help you celebrate your love for each other, from February 10-16 Chef Paride will present a special 5-course “Lui e Lei” menu with a different dish for her and him.

The romantic meal for two begins with an appetizer of seared foie gras, grape sauce and celery root for her and seared lobster, baby globe artichoke and basil oil for him. There’ll also be porcini mushroom soup with parmesan ice cream and herb croutons followed by asparagus risotto with lobster for her, and potato crème soup with egg yolk and truffle, and capellini pasta with blue crab, pachino tomato and fava beans for him.

With the restaurant’s knowledgeable sommelier on hand to recommend wines from the award-winning “primoVino by Rossini’s” wine list diners are also assured the perfect pairing for the extraordinary menu of modern Italian cuisine.

The gourmet evening continues with monkfish with olives and wild chicory for her and succulent grilled Angus tenderloin, chanterelles and confit potato for him before ending with heavenly desserts of iced blackberry lollypop with lemon cream and pistachio sponge, and chocolate creme and fresh strawberries. The memorable dinner for ends with coffee or tea and a selection of sweet treats.

With an award-winning wine list from “primoVino by Rossini’s”, impeccable service, and a distinctly romantic ambience, dining at Rossini’s will ensure you win your lover’s heart on Valentine’s Day. The unforgettable “Lui e Lei” Valentine’s Day dinner at Rossini’s is 6,000++ baht (subject to 10% service charge and 7% government tax) per couple.

The Grande Club members enjoy special privileges.

Rossini’s is open for lunch Monday to Friday from 12:00-14:30 hrs, and for dinner from 18:00-22:30 hrs Monday to Sunday.

For further information or reservations, please call 02 649 8364, email dining.sgs@luxurycollection.com or visit our website www. sheratongrandesukhumvit.com.

If you love Thai food, love cooking in general or are just plain curious about the Land of Smiles' exotic cuisine, now is the chance to have some fun learning how to DIY. Being carefully guide through each step of making some of delicious Thai dishes by our award-winning chefs at Elements Restaurant in Sheraton Pattaya Resort.

You will be amazed and delighted by what you accomplish in just a short time.

Join us for a culinary adventure that will change the way you cook at home and wow your guests forever.

The price are 2,000++ baht for one person, 3,200++ baht for two people, and 4,400++ baht for three people, including a copy of the recipes and ingredients to take home.

For more information or reservations, please dial 038 259 888 or visit website: www.sheratonpattayaresort.com or facebook: www.facebook. com/sheratonpattayaresort

Great Tacos at Oasis restaurant, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya Throughout the month of January, chefs at Oasis restaurant are proud to present “Great Tacos” for you. Beef, chicken or fish will be packed into crisp tacos and accompanied by tomato salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and Jalapeno chillies. If you love Mexican food, this is your place.

Prices start at only 250++ baht (subject to service charge and VAT).

Oasis restaurant is located at lower lobby near the water park of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya. Open daily from 6:0023:30 hrs. Call to reserve at 038 301 234 ext 4260-61.

Romantic Beach Dinner at Sheraton Pattaya Resort

You can make a special moment for your loved ones on a private beach at Sheraton Pattaya Resort, one of Pattaya's most beautiful backdrops. Romance the ocean with our romantic set dinner, meticulously crafted from the essential essences of love, candle-lit dining table laid with finest linen, crystal and silverware with fresh tropical flowers arranged into a fragrant posy.

As the sun sinks beneath the horizon, sit down to a special meal together under the stars, cooled by sea breezes at ocean’s edge on the resort’s private white sand beach. Specially prepared Western or Thai set menus are guaranteed to make for a truly soulful occasion.

Choose from: Modern Thai Set Menu Option I 2,500++ baht per person Option II 3,500++ baht per person Option III 5,500++ baht per person Modern Western Set Menu Option I 2,900++ baht per person Option II 3,900++ baht per person Option III 5,900++ baht per person Reservation is required 24 hours in advance For more information or reservations, please dial 038 259 888 or visit website: www.sheratonpattayaresort.com or facebook: www.facebook. com/sheratonpattayaresort

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

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thefoodloverspattayatoday@msn.com

Le Strogonoff A neighbourhood gem This neighbourhood gem has been quietly serving its French cuisine to appreciative eaters for quite some time now. Pierre Yves Pujo is chef/ patron of this charismatic bistro who over the years has honed and refined his set menu to reflect his love of food and his determined desire to offer his guests quality cuisine at value for money prices.

Hailing from Paris chef Pierre not only comes from a classically trained culinary back ground but has worked extensively in Spain and France where he learnt his skills in Michelin starred restaurants in Normandy, the Auberge de Maitre Corbeau in Ezy Sur Eure to name one.

The phenomenon of prix fixe menus originated in France and are still the most popular and economical method of dining and much loved by the French. Mick and I are devotees of this sensible gastrosystem and here at Le Strogonoff Pierre has created a four-course menu with astonishing variety and diversity (15 choices of starters, main

courses and desserts plus soup of the day). There is a small a la carte menu but most visitors elect to choose from the prix fixe. A host of root French dishes appears on the menu and the price I hear you asking – well it’s only B.390.

Mick and I revisited Le Strogonoff recently and were happy to see the place was packed with happy eaters. The ambiance is laid-back and friendly with two connected dining rooms and a small terrace.

Once seated we ordered two small carafes of the house Chilean Merlot and Chardonnay wine (B. 260) while we browsed through the menu. The wine list contains some interesting labels with prices starting from around B.800. We also spotted not often seen here in Pattaya – Sangria, offered in a litre jug for B.350.

While making our choices we were enthusiastically spreading our hot crusty bread with the scrumptious homemade tapenade (extra virgin olive oil, garlic, anchovies and parsley).

Starters include crispy Brie and smoked salmon, puff pastry of mussels and baby scallops in a curry cream, duo of pate, duck liver salad, salad of marinated raw fish (poisson cru), blue cheese salad with walnuts, scrambled eggs with Camembert and more. I chose the garlic prawns and mushrooms while Mick decided on the herring salad with red cabbage and potatoes.

Come hungry to Le Strogonoff you will need a good appetite to do justice to these portions. Before tucking into our starters we enjoyed the soup of the day (vegetable) liberally sprinkled with croutons.

Yummy garlic butter played the perfect host to the prawns and mushrooms while across the table the mound of mixed salad escorted the small mountain of potatoes and red cabbage abundantly mixed with the marinated herring. Delicious hors d’oeuvres both.

Main courses next. Choose from beef fillet with pepper sauce, sirloin steak with mustard sauce,

skirt steak with shallots (bavette a l’esalote), lasagna of salmon and leek, pork fillet with honey and balsamic sauce, penne with Gorgonzola and zucchini, coq au vin, or bouf Bouguinon, the list continues making decision making even more difficult. It was a tough call but we finally settled on choucrote garnie (an Alsatian dish of sauerkraut with wine, sausages, pork and juniper berries) and a fish fillet with sweet pepper and sesame sauce. Le Strogonoff’s specialty is that traditional North African dish so

beloved of the French – cous cous.

If you are a cous cous lover (which Mick and I decidedly are) or want to try it for the first time, this is the place to come. Five varieties are on offer, vegetable, Merguez (spicy sausage), lamb and the regal Royale with prices starting at B.390.

It was now time for dessert. Again 15 delicious options from crème caramel, profiteroles, a chocolate plate, crepe suzette, strawberry melba and Cointreau and even an assortment of cheese (+ B.60).

There’s something for everyone with a sweet tooth on this dessert menu.

To complete our dining experience at Le Strogonoff we chose to finish with a sherbet colonel. Lemon water ice is drenched in vodka to make a mouth-watering confection which even increases in enjoyment as the sherbet melts softly into the tanginess of the vodka.

Chef Pierre has carved out a winning formula for his restaurant.

Do visit and experience for yourself how canny pricing and delicious French food can be so pleasing not only in the tasting but also when you come to pay your bill. Mangez bien at Le Strogonoff!

Le Strogonoff Open daily from 12 noon to 3 p.m. and 6:30 till 11 p.m.

Pratamnak Hill just before Soi 4 Tel: (038) 306 541 or 0819825964

M

IXOLOG

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

MIXOLOGIST Boonyarit Rattanapahira

The Emerald INGREDIENTS 1.5 oz 0.5 oz 1.5 oz 10 pieces 3 oz

vodka Midori sour mix lemongrass, sliced soda water

GARNISH

SIGNATURE DRINK Mojito

lime maraschino cherry

FAVORITE SPIRIT – PREFERRED BRAND Havana rum

HOW TO MIX

CERTIFICATION/ACHIEVEMENT Havana Bar’s specialist

Put sliced lemongrass into a long drink glass. Use a muddler to crush the lemongrass. Add vodka, Midori, sour mix and ice cube. Shake well. Pour in viva foot glass and topped with soda water. Garnish with lime and a maraschino cherry.

GLASS TYPE Viva foot glass

CATEGORY Cocktail

Available at Havana Bar

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Vol. 02 No. 01 | Jan 1-15 2014

Level 34, Hilton Pattaya

Pizza Chinelino INGREDIENTS Pizza Dough

Pizza

1½ cup plain flour

tomato sauce

pinch salt

mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon yeast powder

parmesan cheese

150 ml warm water

Chinese XO sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil

New Zealand mussel squid fish fillet dry chili

METHOD Pizza Dough Sift flour in the plate, and then sprinkle a pinch of salt on top around the corner.

Add yeast powder in the middle and mix it together.

Add warm water gently then add olive oil.

Combine everything together and begin kneading.

Once you have kneaded the dough, shape it into a ball and then you will leave the dough for 2 hours as the yeast will improve the texture, flavor and elasticity of the dough.

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e: Ru pizza Full nam d, pasta, o o f i a h T : food Specialty Mexican

and ort Dara Res e p a C : @ g in Perform Pattaya Chinelino h: Pizza dis Featured

Sprinkle some flour on the dough and cover the dough with plastic wrap then place it in a warm place.

Tip: Do not mix the yeast and salt together directly as the salt will inhibit yeast action.

Pizza Stir fry Chinese XO sauce in the pan for a few minutes.

Cape Dara Resort Pattaya is located at 266 Dara Beach, Soi 20, Pattaya-Naklua Road, Pattaya 20160 Tel: 038-933-888

Layer tomato sauce on the pizza dough and put mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese.

Pour Chinese XO sauce on top and the rest of the ingredients.

Preheat the oven at 250°C then put the pizza into the oven and bake for 3-5 minutes.

Special Feature Seafood BBQ buffet dinner at A-One Hotel Pattaya A-One The Royal Cruise Hotel Pattaya now features a seafood BBQ buffet dinner with more than 40 items on offer. Set beside the hotel’s pool, the al fresco seafood barbecue and international buffet is only 900 baht per adult and 630 baht per child.

A drink menu with a selection of non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks.The restaurant serves Chilean and Australian house wines by bottle or by glass with a choice of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz Cabernet.There’s a promotion on drinks between 6 and 9 p.m.

The buffet contains a full range of seafood and meat grilled fresh and includes crab varieties, shrimp, rock lobster, squid, salmon, mackerel, beef, pork and chicken. Grilled dishes are served at your table along with a vegetable side.

Also on offer is a variety of sushi and tempura, a salad bar, a roast Peking duck and crispy roasted pork belly station, and pasta as well as Thai dishes. Fruit, ice cream and Thai desserts provide a finishing touch.

For more information and reservations call 038 259 555 ext 4232, email: a-onehotel@aonehotel.com or visit www.a-onehotel.com.

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STRONGER, BRIGHTER, FITTER. eforea spa at Hilton Pattaya

fairness-fitness-finery

please dial 038 253 000 for inquiries and reservations

Vol. 02 No. 01 | Jan 1-15 2014

Spa Promotions Spa Cenvaree, Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok

Think and Grow Slim: 5 Mind Tricks to Help You Lose Weight Fast

by Gwen Vasquez, www.UrbaneWomen.com

Do you find yourself struggling to lose weight and repeatedly find that achieving your ideal weight loss is much more difficult to do than you’d like it to be? Also, do you find yourself succumbing to food cravings regularly?

If you find yourself doing this, you can use some simple mind tricks to help you reach your weight targets a little more easily. We will show you in this article, five of the top mind tricks that have been proven to be the most effective at helping you to lose weight fast.

Blessing you with a pampering New Year spa break

Spa Cenvaree at Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok features a relaxing spa treatment to welcome the year with A Pampering New Year Spa Break. The price is 2,500++ baht per person or 4,400++ baht for a couple for the two-hour spa treatment, available from now until 31 January 2014.

The spa treatment begins with an invigorating detox diva chocolate and black pepper body exfoliation that will relax and warm your body and eliminate the free radicals with its special ingredients of chocolate, black pepper, shea butter, yoghurt, and blended black and white sesame. This is followed by a festive body inch loss with black pepper body wrap and vanilla shea butter, blended with yoghurt, white clay and milk powder to help your body be more fit and firm. Complete your spa journey with a luxurious body shea butter massage that releases tension and helps improve blood circulation to make you feel on top of the world at this time of the year.

For more information or reservation, please contact Spa Cenvaree at Tel: 02 541 1234 ext 4292 and 4567 or email: spacenvareecglb@chr.co.th

Happy Holiday Festive Treats

9018 Flyer for Season Greeting Happy holiday

at Breeze Spa, Amari OrchidA5Pattaya To celebrate happy festive season, indulge in one of ‘deeelightful’ 3-hour packages and get a FREE special gift set valued at 700 baht! For couple bookings, enjoy a complimentary bath or steam on us! Available from now until 31 January 2014

Terms and Conditions • Cannot be used in conjunction with any other discounts and promotions.

• Reservations must be made in advance and cannot be changed without prior notice.

• Subject to availability and cannot be changed without prior notice.

Breeze Spa is located on the 4th floor Festive of Amari Orchid Pattaya Ocean Tower. treats

happy holiday

Happy Festive Season - to celebrate, indulge in one of our deeelightful 3-hour packages and get a FREE special gi set valued at 700 Baht!

For more information or to make an appointment, pleaseenjoycall 038 418bath418 oronemail For couple bookings a complimentary or steam us! orchid@breeze-spa.com Terms and Conditions

Stellar Sanctuary

• Cannot be used in conjunction with any other discounts and promotions.

• Reservations must be made in advance and cannot be changed without prior notice.

• Subject to availability and cannot be changed without prior notice.

at Devarana Spas, Thailand

1. Eat Your Food on Smaller Plates

As food portions have increased in size, so has the size of the plates that food is served on. The problem is this causes food portions of a regular size to look small, encouraging you to put more on your plate to fill it.

By placing your food onto a smaller plate you will trick your mind into thinking you are eating more food than you actually are. Also, do the same with sugarlaced fizzy drinks where you pour them into small glasses.

Doing the above will help you eat and drink less.

2. Put Your Snacks Out Of Reach The old adage of “Out of sight and out of mind?” should ring a bell when it comes to food and losing weight.

You’ll want to place your snacks in a place where you will not see them – such as in the cupboard (high up on a shelf), or in the lower part of your fridge (away from the front or center of the shelves) If these snacks are out of sight, then you will not be tempted to have one as an impromptu snack, and this will greatly reduce the number of times that you feel tempted to have an unplanned snack.

3. Use Our “Reverse Pavlov” Trick The next time you see a big packet of crisps sitting right in front of you, instead of reaching your hand out to grab a handful, try and think about them negatively, such as: View the potato chips as being a fat, overweight body that has little arms and legs poking out from the corners of the bag. Doing this will start to train your mind, and associate things that are unhealthy with being nasty and having excess fat.

By using this simple trick, you will begin to be drawn naturally to more healthy foods and start to visualize your body in a much better light.

4. Visualize Yourself Slimmer One of the most powerful mind tricks that you can use is visualization. You use this trick by programming your brain to choose foods that align themselves with you having a nice, slim & healthy body by visualizing you having the body you really want.

You can choose to visualize whatever you want. It might be losing weight to fit into that little black dress you love so much, or just simply liking the slimmer person that appears in your mirror.

By doing this, you will train your subconscious mind to seek support of the images you visualize by changing what and when you choose to eat as well as your behavior toward food.

5. Build Up Weight Loss Momentum

Last but not least, it’s vital to build & maintain a huge momentum when it comes to the ability to not just lose weight but keep it off successfully on a permanent basis.

Anyone has it within themselves to lose as much weight as they want to. It can be done easily by breaking things down into lots of small little steps, which enables them to achieve dozens of mini-goals throughout each day, and do this consistently.

So make sure that you set out lots of small goals to reach every day, week and month. This will enable you to chart how many times in a row that you can tick off all of the goals and objectives you have achieved.

Doing this will help build positive habits into your mind and enable you to gain powerful motivation, which can work amazingly well!

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

Hate to exercise? Take heart If your hectic pace of life has left you feeling totally exhausted, allow your luminous star lead you to select stress-relieving treatment which best suit your personality traits according to your zodiac sign, star influence and body element.

Devarana Spa has designed four unique stellar sanctuary spa programs includes Deluxe Detoxifying Program, Essential Energizing Spa Program, Ultimate Reviving Program and Luxury Stress Relief Program. Each program classified by the twelve zodiac signs and four body elements of earth, water wind and fire.

From the astrology texts, they believe that there is a connection between the zodiac and the body so all the massages should be performed in the specific areas that affect each element and zodiac sign. From these reasons, the massages and the body polishes used for these programs are selected uniquely for each one.

These two-hour stellar sanctuary spa programs are available throughout 2014 at all Devarana Spas in Thailand for 4,000++ baht (subject to 10% service charge and applicable local government tax).

For more information, please contact Devarana Spa at Dusit Thani Pattaya at Tel: +66 (0) 38 371 044, visit website: www.devaranaspa.com or facebook: www.facebook.com/ devarana.spa.page

If you hate to exercise, here’s some good news: Even brief, intense physical activity can help you lose weight.

The American Journal of Health Promotion reports that data compiled from more than 4,000 women and men showed that every minute spent engaging in high-intensity, short bouts of exercise was linked to a .07 decrease in body mass index (BMI). Each participant in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey wore accelerometers to track their physical activity.

Researchers studied the amount of exercise people were doing based on the intensity and duration of each session. Participants were either categorized as exercising in high intensity bouts for greater or less than 10 minutes, or low-intensity bouts lasting greater or less than 10 minutes.

The conclusion was that for preventing weight gain, the intensity of the activity matters more than duration, and that’s important because few adults reach recommended levels of physical activity in

a week. If you know that even short bouts of brisk activity can add up to a positive effect, it may encourage you get active and promote better health.

Additionally, the research revealed, each minute of high intensity exercise was associated with a 5 percent decreased chance for obesity in women and a 2 percent decreased chance for obesity in men.

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fairness-fitness-finery

Vol. 02 No. 01 | Jan 1-15 2014

Liver spots, excessive pigmentation and other skin blemishes!

With age, our skin accumulates dark pigments, and these show as brownish patches on the hands and the face--not to forget the cranium of bald men. Lentigines, also known as sun spots, age spots or liver spots, are harmless, flat, brown discolorations of the skin which usually occur on the back of the hands, neck and face of people older than 40. These spots, more than anything else, give away a person's age. We frequently call these ‘liver spots’ (nothing really to do with your liver function!) These unsightly patches can be removed with the help of the Perfect Laser Dual Yellow.

Other conditions that appear with age are those small blood vessels that creep up on the side of the nose or on the cheeks. This condition is called telangiectasia. These small capillaries can also be eliminated with the use of Perfect Laser Dual Yellow.

Very small spidery varicose veins are treated the same way. A careful examination is needed for these

as larger varicose veins require a different treatment and will not respond to Perfect Laser treatment.

In people with dark-pigmented skin there also is the insidious appearance of melasma, usually on the cheeks of those who suffered severe acne when young. Long-term sun exposure also leads to these melanin deposits.

Melasma is a difficult condition to completely eliminate. Repeated treatments, usually five, are required.

Results will vary with each patient depending on the amount of pigmentation present.

Using the laser without the need for surgical excision can also eliminate small skin tags.

Other forms of skin growth--like freckles, moles and nevus--may require two or three treatments due to the depth where the pigments are located in the skin.

Safe and showing results immediately, this procedure does not have any down time. You can resume your normal activities immediately after the treatment.

A local anesthetic cream is applied to minimize discomfort during the treatment.

Some very dark lesions may require a second treatment two to three weeks after the initial one.

Perfect Laser is specially calibrated to attack red or brown pigments with

bursts of light. The normal skin is not damaged during the process. The laser scans the surface of the skin and the wavelength touches only these dark pigments.

For skin rejuvenation, treatments can be repeated monthly, but for dark pigmentation a two to threeweek interval is all that is needed.

The dermatologist will consult with you to establish a program tailored to your skin problems. Each individual has different needs and careful attention is assured.

Why look in the mirror and see the same blemish day after day when all it needs is a short treatment? Then you can be more pleased with your reflection in the mirror.

Laser treatments can be combined with fillers and Botox but may need to be spaced so not to interfere with each form of treatment. The dermatologist will advise you on the ideal schedule to give yourself a self-image boost that will make a marked difference in your life.

Start the New Year with confidence and a rejuvenated look. You deserve the best! Project a fresh image!

Forget where you put your keys?

It may just be age-related forgetfulness‌almost everyone suffers from poor memory as we age. But that symptom may be eradicated in the future, because researchers have determined that it is related to diminished brain protein.

Age-related forgetfulness may be due to a deficiency in a brain protein that helps form memories, a study found. Targeting the gene that produces that protein could lead to new therapies. Scientists identified the protein, called RbAp48, in human brain cells and showed that inhibiting it in mice made the animals forgetful while raising the protein improved their memories. That suggests that age related memory loss may be reversible.

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diversions

Vol. 02 No. 01 | Jan 1-15 2014

upcoming movies Captain Phillips

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2

12 Years a Slave

Lead Actors

Tom Hanks, Barkhad Abdi, Barkhad Abdirahman

Lead Actors

Lead Actors

Director Genre

Release Date

Paul Greengrass Action | Adventure | Biography | Drama January 2, 2014

LG 105-INCH CURVED ULTRA HD TV Feeling proud of that brand new 60-inch you bought yourself as an early Christmas present? Well, that's all about to change once you lay eyes on the LG 105-Inch Curved Ultra HD TV. This TV is appallingly huge — we don't even know who would have the space for something like this — but that doesn't make it any less incredible. It boasts a staggering 11-million pixels across its 105-inch curved screen (which is pretty hard to fathom), as well as an amazing 21:9 aspect ratio. While pricing hasn't been announced yet, we're assuming it should resemble something like the average American's yearly income. But hey, you can't put a price on these kind of bragging rights.

LOGITECH POWERSHELL CONTROLLER You know by now that your phone is way more than just a phone — in fact that may be the thing you use it for the least — whether you're using it to keep up with Fantasy, message friends, manage your schedule, or pass the time playing games. But when it comes to the latter, it could always be better, and with the Logitech Powershell Controller (3,270 baht), it can be.

It takes your phone, which is already a pretty good gaming device in its own right, and upgrades it, adding a directional pad, button cluster, and shoulder triggers so you don't have to sit there poking at a multitouch screen. And with a built-in battery, it also charges your phone while you play, so you won't have to worry about it dying in case you need to actually take a call.

PLOWZ Snow days used to be fun. But there's nothing fun about waking up on a cold morning, bundling up in your warmest clothes, pulling on a pair of boots, and shoveling all the freshly-fallen flakes from your driveway just so you can get to work. With Plowz (820 baht and up) you can easily schedule a snowplow to come do all the hard work for you, so you never have to worry about shoveling again. They work with local plow providers, so you don't have to, letting you pay, tip, and schedule directly from the app. You pay based on the length of your driveway, and schedule the work on your time, taking all the pain out of winter weather.

SOUNDMATTERS DASH7 SPEAKER The next time you're out traveling, don't settle for the mediocre speakers on your smartphone or laptop — upgrade your mobile audio with the Soundmatters Dash7 Speaker (8,180 baht). One of the slimmest, lightest high fidelity Bluetooth speakers available, this little unit measures threequarters of an inch high and weighs less than half a pound, while still packing plenty of sound. It features Bluetooth connectivity for wireless listening, or an auxiliary input if you don't mind being connected. With 12 hours of Bluetooth battery life, and as much as 20 hours if you use the auxiliary cord, you won't have to worry about it dying on you. Available in range of colors, this speaker also includes an international charging kit, cables, and a carrying case.

Captain Phillips is a multi-layered examination of the 2009 hijacking of the U.S. container ship Maersk Alabama by a crew of Somali pirates. It is - through director Paul Greengrass' distinctive lens - simultaneously a pulse-pounding thriller, and a complex portrait of the myriad effects of globalization.

The film focuses on the relationship between the Alabama's commanding officer, Captain Richard Phillips (Tom Hanks), and the Somali pirate captain, Muse (Barkhad Abdi), who takes him hostage. Phillips and Muse are set on an unstoppable collision course when Muse and his crew target Phillips' unarmed ship; in the ensuing standoff, 145 miles off the Somali coast, both men will find themselves at the mercy of forces beyond their control.

Bill Hader, Anna Faris, Will Forte

Director Cody Cameron, Kris Pearn Genre Animation | Comedy | Family Release Date January 9, 2014 After the disastrous food storm in the first film, Flint and his friends are forced to leave the town. Flint accepts the invitation from his idol Chester V to join The Live Corp Company, which has been tasked to clean the island, and where the best inventors in the world create technologies for the betterment of mankind.

When Flint discovers that his machine still operates and now creates mutant food beasts like living pickles, hungry tacodiles, shrimpanzees and apple pie-thons, he and his friends must return to save the world.

Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Brad Pitt

Director Steve McQueen Genre Biography | Drama | History Release Date January 16, 2014 Based on an incredible true story of one man's fight for survival and freedom. In the pre-Civil War United States, Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a free black man from upstate New York, is abducted and sold into slavery. Facing cruelty (personified by a malevolent slave owner, portrayed by Michael Fassbender), as well as unexpected kindnesses, Solomon struggles not only to stay alive, but to retain his dignity. In the twelfth year of his unforgettable odyssey, Solomon's chance meeting with a Canadian abolitionist (Brad Pitt) will forever alter his life.

music / new release

The Fray – Scars and Stories After Scars and Stories, there were rumours The Fray had promised a fourth album by the end of 2013. In October 2012, in an interview with Rolling Stone, Isaac Slade said that The Fray would be starting work on album fourth album in the New Year, with the target release date of Christmas 2013. If this were to happen, the space between Scars and Stories and the fourth album would be only 22 months - the shortest space of time in between Fray albums.

On June 4, 2013, The Fray announced on Facebook and Twitter that they had begun recording their fourth album. Two song names from the new album include "Wherever This Goes" and "Hold My Hand". The first single, entitled "Love Don't Die", was released to radio on October 15, 2013 and iTunes on October 21, 2013. Helios will be released on January 14, 2014. During two shows, the band introduced new songs entitled "Hurricane" and "Break Your Plans". The lyric video for "Love Don't Die" was released on October 21, 2013. The music video for "Love Don't Die" was filmed Nov 13, 2013 at Cowboy Palace Saloon in Chatsworth, California.

1. Heartbeat 2. The Fighter 3. Turn Me On 4. Run for Your Life

5. The Wind 6.1961 7. I Can Barely Say 8. Munich

9. Here We Are 10. 48 to Go 11. Rainy Zurich 12. Be Still

Switchfoot - Fading West Fading West is the title of upcoming ninth studio album by the American alternative rock band Switchfoot, scheduled to be released on January 14, 2014 through Atlantic.

It is also the title of an accompanying film/documentary, which will feature a behindthe-scenes look at the band and follow them to their surfing destinations. The film premiered on September 20, 2013 during the first concert of the Fading West Tour, and was released digitally on December 10, 2013.

1. Love Alone Is Worth the Fight 2. Who We Are 3. When We Come Alive 4. Say It Like You Mean It 5. The World You Want

6. Slipping Away 7. Ba55 8. Let It Out 9. All or Nothing At All 10. Saltwater Heart 11. Back to the Beginning Again

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automotive new Mitsubishi Pattaya Today's top All Pajero Sport V6 3.0L three drives 2013 Vol. 02 No. 01 | Jan 1-15 2014

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

SUV

Cutting to the chase, Pattaya Today's automotive editor and driver-in-residence, John K. Lindgren, picks three vehicles out of the 12 sedans, pick-ups and SUV's he tested in 2013: The MINI Cooper D (Diesel), the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, and the Honda Civic CNG.

MINI Cooper

LUXURY For the family man and family woman with enough room for the kids, the nanny, the canines or a mega shopping spree at IKEA, I'd recommend the petrol powered 219 horsepower, mighty, muscular Mitsubishi Pajero Sport V6 (retail price 1,305,000 baht). Fitted with all the bells and whistles that not long ago were found only in luxury imported SUVs--like cruise control and F-1inspired paddle shift, satellite navigation, 12.5-inch DVD, a rear-view parking camera, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity. This is a sport utility vehicle for all seasons--come hell or high water. Trust me! http://pattayatoday.net/life-leisure/automotive/all-new-mitsubishi-pajerosport-v6-3-0l/

Honda City CNG ECO

The MINI. Would I buy a MINI Countryman, Clubman, One, Coupe, or convertible (cabriolet)? Maybe not. Would I buy a MINI Cooper D Hatchback at a cool 2,490,000 baht. Yes, Sir! I’d purchase one immediately--if I were a high net worth individual. Why? Because it’s built by BMW, Deutschland, and they make the best diesels in the world. This compact machine is breathtakingly fast, with tons of torque, and it can take me (when I want to escape) all the way to the hills of Chiang Mai on one full tank of diesel fuel. No kiddin'. http://pattayatoday.net/life-leisure/automotive/mini-cooper-hot-hatch-goes-diesel/

Finally, for the nine-to-five, everyday home-office commuting, go for the Honda City CNG (659,000 baht). With fuel prices, petrol, gasohol and diesel averaging 36 baht per liter, why not save thousands of baht and switch to gas--not gasoline but compressed natural gas (CNG), aka Natural Gas Vehicle (NGV) selling at 10.50 baht per kilogram? Currently, the PTT fuel monopoly operates more than 469 pumps nationwide. The demand is high and more pumps are being built.

Enter Honda City CNG. Honda’s urban bi-fuel sedan that is powered by a preppy i-VTEC 1.5 liter engine capable of running on either CNG or petrol, gasohol. Honda City is a perfect, compact, good-looking four-door sedan with a 5-speed automatic gear box, dual front airbags, ABS and EDB. Solid form and function and high resale value like all Honda passenger cars. http://pattayatoday.net/life-leisure/automotive/honda-city-cng-clean-valueadded-energy/

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

GM Outlook: “Our basic aim at Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa is to create the future of travel.”

— Matthew Fryar

Director of Operations

Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa

page P8/32 >>

Volume 2

What's Inside: Legal Advice Prenuptial agreements in Thailand

page P4/28 Expat Money Corner A reasonable, secure return – is it too much to ask?

page P4/28 Property Siam@Siam opens softly in North Pattaya

page P5/29 Property Thailand: Regime is not "Democratically Elected"

page P6/30

Classifieds

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

page P10/34

Issue 24 1-15 january 2014

AERAS Embrace the elements of extraordinary style

Already with a number of successful real estate projects in Pattaya and Bangkok, The Urban Property is now turning to ancient Greece for its latest condominium venture.

Living up to its name, meaning ‘the airy wind’ in Modern Greek, AERAS condominium complex invites you to revel in the natural elements. AERAS aspires to bring out the luxurious feeling of the elements and infuse them with design innovation to cater to customers’ needs. AERAS is meticulously designed as a residential complex with a perfect balance between beachfront serenity and the vibrant life of urban living offering panoramic views of the sea. AERAS’ daring cliff-inspired facade serves as a symbol of stability of Mother Earth, especially as represented by airiness throughout the complex and by a water

theme associated with the nearby beach.

Located along the pristine Jomtien Beach, the complex consists of two luxury buildings: an impressive 38-storey highrise, AETHER tower, and an exquisite 4-storey low-rise, AEOLUS tower, both of which have been designed using prime natural materials and offer direct beach access.

The AETHER high-rise allows you to experience life ‘up in the air’, with 304 residences continuing all the way up to penthouses on the top floor. You really will feel like a Greek God in your kingdom in the sky.

Continued on page P2/26

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Volume 2

Advertorial AERAS

Continued from page P1/25

Units have been designed to cater to all family sizes; from singletons to married couples with children.

They include studios, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, duplexes and penthouses.

The two largest condominiums come with private sparkling plunge pools as well; so you can take a cooling dip while marvelling at the breathtaking views below.

As for AEOLUS, the low-rise tower, this is particularly befitting to people who value privacy and space, as the four-storey building consists of just 13 various sized units – 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom and duplex.

What makes AERAS unique is the attention to detail The Urban Property has paid to its design. Standout features include the special lighting system, high-quality materials, digital door locks and video door phones.

Furthermore, The Urban Property has a long tradition of providing fivestar facilities in all its projects which will include at AERAS lounges at lobby and sky level, an elegant library, gymnasium, stylish crystal clear pool, squash courts and everything imaginable for the kids – games room and kids’ room. There are also 24-hour security guards on hand and CCTV cameras, so you can rest assured that your security will be taken care of.

For those who crave the serenity that comes with beachfront living but also like to enjoy the conveniences of urban life, AERAS is the perfect option.

AERAS Sales Gallery is now open, located at Jomtien Beach Road between Soi 17-18. Fully furnished units at pre-sale start at 2.2 million baht. For details, contact 038 231 238 or visit www.aerascondo.com

Chambers of commerce Christmas Party Christmas decorations were abundant at a lavish party hosted by the Australian Chamber of Commerce, the American Chamber of Commerce, and the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand at the Amari Orchid Pattaya. Children from the School for the Blind sang Christmas carols, and the Amari presented an impressive fireworks display.

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1-15 january 2014

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Volume 2

Issue 24

Property The Cloud hosts party A party for local estate agents at The Cloud Cozy Beach was hosted by Global Top Group and Trong Co., Ltd., developers of the new luxury condominium project. Winners of a lucky draw received an iPad Air, an iPad Mini, and a Samsung 4S.

1-15 january 2014

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Volume 2

Issue 24

1-15 january 2014

Legal & Expat Money

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Prenuptial agreements in Thailand by: Magna Carta Law Office What is a prenuptial agreement?

A prenuptial or ante nuptial agreement is a written contract between two people in anticipation of marriage.

It normally lists all of the assets each person owns, specifies the rights and obligations of the parties, how finances will be managed during the course of marriage, and specifies what each person's property rights will be if the marriage is terminated either by death, divorce or cancelled by court.

Who generally needs a prenuptial agreement?

Prenuptial agreement may sound odd because most couples are not open to discuss money matters, property ownership or even possibilities of separation, but these agreements are fairly common and essential, especially if either or both parties have substantial assets, valuables, stocks, inheritances, bonds or collectibles that he or she wants to keep as separate property; or both parties want to clarify financial obligations to a parent or a child from a previous marriage and even extensive debts that they will bring into their marriage.

Why is it important?

A prenuptial agreement sets the financial arrangements and agreements between couples before their marriage.

Future concerns about money, work, children, home, and any other mutual issue can be discussed openly. Both parties can retain personal properties and financial assets they owned prior to marriage which can prevent disputes over property in the future. By setting forth a formal agreement, both parties will be assured that their valuables will be disposed of according to their intentions and both will be aware of what to anticipate in the event of dissolution of marriage.

Can a prenuptial agreement protect us and our assets from being liable to extensive debts incurred before our marriage?

Under Thai law, this agreement can be used to protect assets of the other spouse from being used or seized to satisfy all separate debts incurred before the marriage. Without it, your future spouse's liability and negative credit history can become your own, and creditors can go after the marital property even though only one spouse is the debtor.

How does a prenuptial agreement protect my family business, family members and family heirlooms?

Protecting Family Business A prenuptial agreement keeps control and protects ownership of assets, finances and properties belonging to a family business. In the absence of a premarital agreement, a court could award some of your ownership rights in a family business to your partner that can lead to a potentially difficult situation in case the marriage fails.

Protecting Family Members Often a prenuptial agreement is used to designate responsibility and to protect the interests of children from a prior marriage as well as children from the upcoming marriage. By signing a formal agreement, you can ensure that your children receive the assets, property or money you want them to have in the event of separation.

Protecting Family Heirlooms Heirloom could be anything valuable passed down from generations to its family members. A prenuptial agreement can ensure that family heirlooms are kept out of the marital estate as this is important when there are children from a prior marriage or other relatives for whom they are intended.

What is the significance of a prenuptial agreement in a divorce?

This could help as a guideline between the couple on how to divide the properties upon divorce. By entering into a prenuptial agreement, there is less stress and bitterness and less to fight about in a divorce procedure. Divorce may be far less expensive if the spouses’ respective rights are prearranged.

What are the important points to consider when preparing a prenuptial agreement?

Prenuptial agreements need to be in writing and signed before the marriage with at least two witnesses present and must be registered in the local office where the marriage will take place. This must be written in both Thai and English or the spouse’s native language for better understanding of both parties. It is important to consider that prenuptial agreements cannot be altered except by authorization of the court. It is extremely important that both parties understand exactly all the rights and obligations that go along with the signing of the agreement; that is why each party needs legal counsel from their own respective lawyers.

Will a prenuptial agreement drafted in Thailand be valid to cover my assets in other countries?

It is recommended that you also obtain legal advice from a legal professional under the other jurisdictions involved because a prenuptial agreement you make in Thailand under Thai law may not always be fully recognized in other countries as there may be a conflict of laws between the different jurisdictions.

Can a prenuptial agreement cover child support or child custody?

Prenuptial agreements do not deal with child custody or child support issues. The court makes the final decision on custody, and parties cannot set child support since no one can predict all the circumstances which will arise at the time of a dispute. The court shall have the power to decide what is in the child's best interest and will not deny a child the right to financial support or the opportunity to have a relationship with an able parent.

What if my spouse and I decide, after years of marriage, that we no longer want to have the prenuptial agreement in effect?

Most well-written prenuptial agreements will stipulate a condition that dictates exactly how to withdraw the prenuptial agreement, or a provision for automatic cancellation after an agreed-upon number of years.

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

www.magnacarta.co.th

Expat Money Corner

by Tim Whiteley

A reasonable, secure return – is it too much to ask?

The financial debacle of recent years has, no doubt, left many frightened and wishing only to protect capital, especially if one’s hardearned nest egg has been exposed to the world’s stock markets.

There are cautiously inclined fund managers out there that are doing considerably better than the banks, consistently producing 8 percent plus with, in some cases, absolutely no drop in value over a number of years.

The difference between 2 or 3 percent and 8 percent, for those of us living on hard-earned capital, is more than sufficient to elevate one’s standard of living significantly and very welcome, as long as it doesn’t increase our risk to any great extent.

Take an example of someone with their own house and a 250,000 GBP or approximately 400,000 USD tucked away. The interest yield at 3 percent on deposit with the bank amounts to 625 pounds per month, or 1,000 dollars. Were 8 percent achieved, then those figures become a shade over 1,665 pounds or 2,665 dollars monthly!

How can this be done with little or no real increase to the risk profile? The answer lies in carefully selecting investment options whose area of operations provide a very strong demand curve into the foreseeable future, with large international banks as custodians, controlling the funds’ finances. It is also reassuring to have these investments approved by international institutions for inclusion in their accepted securities lists.

For the most part, the old saying “reward is commensurate with risk” applies, and when it comes to our money, we all want the same thing – a decent return with little or no risk. The fact is there are several options available that do actually get close to that ideal.

At 8 percent per annum, after costs, a withdrawal of 5 percent income could potentially leave a reasonable 3 percent in to battle the investor’s enemy, inflation. By comparison the figure the bank is likely to offer substantial term deposits is perhaps 3 percent.

Trying to counter inflation, by not touching the interest, leaves no income.

For retired and/or semi-retired people, one of the main concerns is trying to ensure savings will not be depleted during our lifetime. This spectre really emphasises the importance of making one’s money work to produce sufficient income that lasts at least as long as we do! When examining candidates for investing our money we should be aiming for secure, consistent, worthwhile returns over the medium term and, as part of the ongoing process, it’s important to review performance regularly.

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 expatriates and international investors 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

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Volume 2

Issue 24

1-15 january 2014

Property Blue Sky beach party Blue Sky Group, developer of Atlantis Condo Resort, Grande Caribbean Condo Resort, and Venetian Signature Condo Resort, hosted a beach party at the Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya for its staff and local media. The party theme transformed from Hawaiian to mini carnival with booth games, performances, a fashion show, and lucky draw.

Siam@Siam opens softly in North Pattaya Three months prior to its grand opening in March, Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya threw open its doors to welcome its first guests as well as local dignitaries in a soft opening and merit-making ceremony.

The 25-storey tower in North Pattaya features 268 rooms—from budget to luxury, two swimming pools, a pool bar, fitness centre, and The Roof Mixology for cocktails, tapas and eating.

Managed by Siam@Siam Ltd., which manages the award-winning Siam@Siam Design Hotel & Spa Bangkok, the new hotel combines industrial art with old wood and steel, Thai and oriental styles, and unusual bright colors.

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Volume 2

Issue 24

1-15 january 2014

Property

Regime is not “Democratically Elected” The above headline relates to yet another Thai political point of view from Tony Cartalucci, a Bangkok-based foreign journalist, geopolitical researcher and writer who focuses on world events from a Southeast Asian perspective. He has been published on many alternative websites, including Alternative Thai News Network, LocalOrg and his own www.landdestroyer.blogspot.com--known as the Land Destroyer Report.

I have introduced in my columns a number of favourite local writers both Thai and foreign; Tony has impressed me with his courage and solid research which together bring forth a truthfulness well worth sharing with my readers. Herewith, the piece in question: Regime is not “Democratically Elected” Earlier this year, the New York Times wrote in

By Tony Cartalucci its article, "In Thailand, Power Comes with Help from Skype," “Millions of people across the globe have cut the tethers to their offices, working remotely from home, airport lounges or just about anywhere they can get an Internet connection. But the political party governing Thailand has taken telecommuting into an altogether different realm.

For the past year and a half, by the party’s own admission, the most important political decisions in this country of 65 million people have been made from abroad, by a former prime minister who has been in selfimposed exile since 2008 to escape corruption charges.

The country’s most famous fugitive, Thaksin Shinawatra, circles the globe in his private jet, chatting with ministers over his dozen cell phones, texting over various social media platforms and reading government documents e-mailed to him from civil servants, party officials say.

What sounds like the making of the next banana republic, is instead a fact now being conveniently buried, as anti-regime protesters struggle to purge the proxies of Thaksin Shinawatra, with his foreign backers throughout the Western media claiming that his proxy government, headed by his own nepotist-appointed sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, is both the legitimate government of Thailand and "democratically elected."

This is perhaps the most pervasive myth surrounding the current conflict in Thailand and is perpetuated by Western media sources and the regime itself.

Elections did indeed take place, and in those elections, the current regime did garner the most votes, but the same could be said about elections held anywhere, even in nations that are decidedly very undemocratic. Despots throughout history have used elections as a veil of legitimacy behind which they hide - and hiding a despotic, hereditary regime is exactly what the Shinawatras are doing in Thailand.

The campaign slogan in 2011's general election literally was, "Thaksin thinks, Puea Thai (his political party) does," indicating that his sister Yingluck, like her two predecessors, Somchai Wongsawat (Thaksin's brother-in-law), and Samak Sundaravej (who literally declared he was Thaksin's proxy to TIME), is merely filling a superficial role.

The West's Defense of "Democratically Elected Government" is really the Defense of their Investment in Shinawatra.

So why the West defending what is is clearly a dysfunctional democracy, clearly abusing the mechanisms of real representative governance, to perpetuate a very undemocratic regime? To understand the answer to that question, one must examine the immense investment the West has made in the Shinawatras over the last decade.

Thaksin had been prime minister from 2001-2006. Long before Thaksin Shinawatra became prime minister in Thailand, he was already working his way up the Wall Street-London ladder of opportunity, while simultaneously working his way up in Thai politics.

He was appointed by the Carlyle

by Clayton Wade Managing Director

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

Group as an adviser while holding public office, and attempted to use his connections to boost his political image.

Thanong Khanthong of Thailand's English newspaper The Nation, wrote in 2001, "In April 1998, while Thailand was still mired in a deep economic morass, Thaksin tried to use his American connections to boost his political image just as he was forming his Thai Rak Thai Party. He invited Bush senior to visit Bangkok and his home, saying his own mission was to act as a "national matchmaker" between the US equity fund and Thai businesses. In March, he also played host to James Baker III, the US secretary of state in the senior Bush administration, on his sojourn in Thailand."

Upon becoming prime minister in 2001, Thaksin began paying back the support he received from his Western sponsors. In 2003, he committed Thai troops to the US invasion of Iraq, despite widespread

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 for

protests from both the Thai military and the public. Thaksin also allowed the CIA to use Thailand for its abhorrent rendition program.

Also in 2003, starting in February and over the course of 3 months, some 2,800 people (approximately 30 a day) were extra-judicially murdered in the cities and countrysides of Thailand as part of Thaksin's "War on Drugs."

Accused of being "drug dealers," victims were systematically exterminated based on "hit lists" compiled by police given carte blanche

by Thaksin. It later was determined by official investigations that over half of those killed had nothing to do with the drug trade in any way. Human Rights Watch (HRW) confirmed this in their 2008 report titled, "Thailand’s 'war on drugs'," a follow up to the much more extensive 2004 report, "Not Enough Graves."

During Thaksin Shinawatra's 2003 "War on Drugs" it wasn't only drug users who were brutally, extrajudicially murdered in the streets, but

and currently also includes banking houses Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Chevron, Exxon, BP, Glaxo Smith Kline, Merck, Northrop Grumman, Monsanto’s GMO doppelganger Syngenta, as well as Phillip Morris.

Thaksin remained in office until September of 2006. On the eve of the military coup that ousted him from power, Thaksin was literally standing before the Fortune 500-funded Council on Foreign Relations giving a progress report in New York City.

Since the 2006 coup that toppled his regime, Thaksin has been represented by US corporatefinancier elites via their lobbying firms including, Kenneth Adelman of the Edelman PR firm (Freedom House, International Crisis Group, PNAC), James Baker of Baker Botts (CFR), Robert Blackwill of Barbour Griffith & Rogers (CFR), Kobre & Kim, and currently Robert Amsterdam of Amsterdam & Peroff (Chatham House).

over 50 percent of the 2,800 killed during the course of 3 months, were completely innocent, involved in no way with either drug use or trade.

The following year saw the Tak Bai incident which saw 85 protesters killed in a single day in Thailand's Deep South. And despite Thaksin's atrocious human rights record, by far the worst in Thai history, and even challenging regional lows, the West continued to support his regime.

Also in 2004, Thaksin attempted to ramrod through a US-Thailand Free-Trade Agreement (FTA) without parliamentary approval, backed by the US-ASEAN Business Council who just before last year's 2011 elections that saw Thaksin's sister Yingluck Shinawatra brought into power, hosted the leaders of Thaksin’s "red shirt" "United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship" (UDD).

The council in 2004 included 3M, war profiteering Bechtel, Boeing, Cargill, Citigroup, General Electric, IBM, the notorious Monsanto,

Robert Amsterdam of Amsterdam & Peroff, also simultaneously represented Thaksin's "red shirt" UDD movement, and was present for the inaugural meeting of the so-called "academic" Nitirat group, attended mostly by pro-Thaksin red shirts (who literally wore their red shirts to the meeting). Additional support for Thaksin and his UDD streetfront is provided by the US State Department via National Endowment for Democracy-funded "NGO" Prachatai.

It is clear that the regime of Thaksin Shinawatra is in fact, really the regime of immense foreign interests that have built him up and have kept him relevant for years.

The myth of Thaksin Shinawatra's proxy government in Thailand being "democratically elected" is simply another buttress built by the West to keep his regime from crumbling under the weight of the true dimensions of his corruption, crimes, and illegitimacy.

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 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

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Volume 2

Issue 24

1-15 january 2014

GM Outlook

Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa creates a legacy

by Barry Kenyon

Occupying eight acres of tropical gardens with towering palm trees, shady lotus pools and lush vegetation, this majestic hotel has been a flagship for quality hospitality in Pattaya ever since 1978.

d

irector of Operations, Matthew Fryar, says the uniqueness of Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa lies in the reality that it offers a natural peace and tranquillity yet is just steps away from the best of the resort’s entertainment and shopping facilities and, of course, the main Pattaya beach.

Matthew, an extrovert Australian with a flair for international travel and with more than 20 years experience in hospitality, is especially proud that the hotel recently won top accolades for excellence in the ninth Thailand Tourism Awards 2013 organized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Having won three consecutive awards, Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa

was thus elevated to the Hall of Fame by the tourist authority.

Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa is the first and only hotel in Thailand to receive such recognition. These much soughtafter accolades, also known as the Kinnari Awards, are seen as the country’s benchmark of the very best in the hospitality industry.

The 298 rooms Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa, including 30 suites, all face the ocean or lush tropical gardens. These days top hotels are expected to have a “wow” factor to impress guests.

This complex of two imposing buildings with 10 and 4 storeys has several candidates. Over the years, many have commented on the expansive, welcoming and breezy lobby of traditional wood which never looks crowded even during the busiest periods. This leads to a most breathtaking oasis of lush gardens, a swimming pool

Matthew Fryar

Director of Operations

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Volume 2

Issue 24

1-15 january 2014

GM Outlook Our basic aim at Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa is to create the future of travel.

Kinnari Awards trophies

and stunning open air pavilions.

Another candidate for the “wow” factor is the consistency of the Thai cuisine with every dish prepared fresh on a daily basis.

Over the years, the hotel has maintained its emphasis on traditional Thai hospitality, a trait which has been adopted by three of its trendy eateries: Benihana Japanese steakhouse, the Garden Cafe, and Dicey Reilly's. Benihana features teppanyaki tables and entertaining chefs; Garden Cafe, with lobby lounge and swim-up pool bar, offers classic international as well as Thai fare, and Dicey Reilly's is the popular Irish pub and restaurant immediately adjacent to the lobby.

Matthew Fryar is conscious that he has a long tradition of excellence to maintain at Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa. As director of operations he is the public face of the hotel and spends a lot of his time interacting with guests as well as coordinating the various internal departments. “I never stop looking and examining,” he says, “as guest expectations move forward and become ever higher.”

Matthew is very much an auditor, ensuring that customer requirements are met on a 24/7 basis. “Our aim is to secure guest recognition by providing brilliant service.”

This attitude is reflected in the close attention paid by the hotel to user remarks

on leading internet sites, particularly TripAdvisor. While some Pattaya hotels respond formally only to praise, Matthew insists that every submission – even if it’s gripes – is replied to in close detail. “We can learn so much of individual needs by this sort of feedback and we benefit by repeat customers both Thai and foreign. In fact it is a vital part of our self-improvement strategy. Yet even a casual examination of the TripAdvisor remarks about Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa shows that the compliments there heavily outweigh the grumbles."

Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa’s client profile, of course, is changing is the city continues to evolve. There is an expanding Asian visitor base which will doubtless be even more significant in years to come and especially after the ASEAN Economic Community starts in two years time. “Obviously we have both leisure and business travellers, but our biggest segment is the corporate sector on a repeat

basis.” This is doubtless due to many factors including the hotel’s reputation, its business and social facilities and its ideal location. Many domestic and international companies now hold seminars at the hotel, whilst away-days and staff training are fast becoming a norm.

A novel feature of Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa is its five-rai hydroponic garden located near Wat Yansangwararam, a few kilometres out of Pattaya in the Sattahip district. Open for three years, the garden grows its own organic vegetables, including five varieties of lettuce: red oak, green oak, red coral, butterhead, and cos, on a farm-to-table basis (providing the hotel with much of its fresh produce), as well as organizing on-site cookery classes and offering guided tours of the facilities.

The mini-hydroponic garden located at the hotel is also in process of regeneration.

Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa is the only hotel in Pattaya to offer a separatelyidentified facility off-site which is both

environmentally friendly and a tourist attraction in its own right.

It has been said that guests can enjoy the best of both worlds at Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa – the vibrant delights of the city with its relaxing beach scene and also the resplendent gardens and traditional Thai hospitality of this attractive hideaway.

“In its 35-year history, Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa has witnessed so many changes,” says Matthew, “yet its single greatest strength is its customary Thai warmth and culture which is not as easy to find in the Pattaya of today.”

Matthew is at the heart of the action, both to respond to the ever-changing Pattaya scene and to ensure that customers keep coming back. It’s a mammoth task and I asked him how he took time out to relax. “I love golf and sailing,” he announces proudly. They do say that the most successful business people also have active social lives. Matthew Fryar certainly fits into that mould.

10 ZZ/34

1 - 15 January 2014

Articles for Sale

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(ptmbo-w0913)Shop House Jomtien Beach Soi 4, 150m to the beach. Newly renovated 8 units, 6 levels, full rented. New furniture.

All with kitchen, bathroom, balcony, central A/C, flat TV, microwave. Cable TV, Wi-Fi, security cameras, electronic card entrance, wash machine. 60sq meter penthouse for the owner, 2 levels, Jacuzzi, 50” 3D flat TV, wash machine. Price 7.9 mil baht. Owner finance up to 5.mil. Owner 0808218326 E-mail wrm215@aol.com Fantastic Investment with Great Rental Return! 12 Million Baht only for Five (5) spacious 160 square meter 3 bedroom 3 bathroom multiplex houses on 37 Tarang Wah (148 square meters) of land each. That is only 2.4 Million Baht per house! All five (5) houses are currently rented and bringing in 80,000 baht per month total. 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 (PR6164) Grand Estate Home or Resort with Restaurant for Sale with Great Business Opportunity! 8 Guest Suites all with en suite Bathrooms!

Americana Antiques in Every Guest Suite! Over 2 Rai of Beautiful Gardens (847 TLW) Absolutely Gorgeous Swimming Pool! 1950’s Rock n Roll era Siam Country Club Roadside Restaurant.

For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and

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081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR5796) Restaurant for Sale in Prime Location Jomtien(T happraya Road) rent 25K THB p/m.

3+3 year lease. Sale Price: 1,690,000 THB includes everything furniture, fixtures stock-good cash flow please call 0823440822 Email to dew@bbpasia.net S k y V i e w Pe n t h o u s e Re s t a u r a n t f o r S a l e / Lease: Stunning views of Pattaya and Jomtien Bay Decorated in Vietnamese and French Style. 500 sqm Rent 45k THB p/m. SALE PRICE: 4,950,000 THB includes everything please call 0823440822 Email to dew@bbpasia.net Guest House/Coffee Shop Soi Buakhao: 6 rooms Leasehold: 3+3 Rent: 30,000 Baht/Month. 19% cash return annually SALE PRICE: 2,100,000 THB please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email to dew@bbpasia.net Guest House/Pub Dongtan Beach: 4 rooms Leasehold: 3+3 Rent: 23,000 Baht/Month. Fully occupied SALE PRICE: 1,499,000 THB please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email to dew@ bbpasia.net French Restaurant for Sale/Lease: Established 11 years in the same location in Jomtien rent 25K THB p/m. 6 year lease. Sale Price: 3,950,000 THB includes e ve r y t h i n g p l e a s e c a l l 0823440822 Email to dew@ bbpasia.net A Leading English Language Magazine for sale, 2 Million baht. Call 089 607 9850 for more details (ptmpt-bo00)For Sale or Lease. 23 Nice Two Room Apartments located in 3 buildings on a one rai land parcel in a very central location south Pattaya.

W i t h i n 5 m i n wa l k i n g distance to walking street, however still a quiet and secure area. For more info contact 081 9099098, No agents please

French Restaurant for Sale/Lease: Established 11 years in the same location in Jomtien rent 25K THB p/m. 6 year lease. Sale Price: 3,950,000 THB includes e ve r y t h i n g p l e a s e c a l l 0823440822 Email todew@ bbpasia.net BUSINESS – Na Jomtien In a great beachfront location this popular restaurant with living accommodation above is offered for sale with 3 years remaining on the lease. Seating for more than 20 with bar, refrigerators, cooler, commercial kitchen, 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and great sea views. Monthly rent is just 16,000 Bt. For Sale: 860,000 baht. Website Ref: BUSS031. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-property.com BUSY INTERNET & TRAVEL AGENTS IN A ‘5-STAR’ LOCATION - Single four-storey building in the busiest foot traffic location in Jomtien and near to several hotels and guesthouses. Ground floor internet and travel office with 3 rooms and small office above. Can convert to massage or retail premises.

For sale: Only 500,000 Bt including computers and furniture, monthly rent of 25,000 Bt and 100,000 Bt key money. Website Ref: BUSS031. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-property.com B A R - T H A I RESTAURANT WITH ROOMS IN BUSY ‘5STAR’ LOCATION Single three storey building in the busiest foot traffic location in Jomtien, presently a Thai restaurant with 4 rooms above, easy to convert to office, massage or retail premises. For sale leasehold: 700,000 Bt, monthly rent of 20,000 Bt and no key money.

Website Ref: BUSS026. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property. com. www.pattaya-jomtienproperty.com OFFICE – RETAIL WITH ROOMS – Ideally located on a highly visible corner location in Soi Korpai. A single unit 4 storey building with ground floor office and furniture plus 3 rooms on the upper floors, in a really great traffic location in this busy Soi. For Sale Leasehold: Only 175,000 Bt (this includes security deposit) and a monthly rent of just 12,000 Bt and no key money. Website Ref: COMS027. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-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 maid’s room. An established business. For Sale: Leasehold 3.3m Bt, monthly rent 30,000 Bt. Website Ref: BUSS019. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com GUESTHOUSE - A single unit guesthouse in a central location in Jomtien, 4 storey, 6 bedroom recently been renovated and partly furnished. The ground floor is suitable for restaurant, office, massage, beauty salon etc. the upper floors have either one very spacious bedroom with AC, en-suite bathrooms with showers, large LCD TV, fridg e, kitchenette and microwave, Wi-Fi, and balcony or 2 smaller bedrooms with AC, en-suite bathrooms with shower, large LCD TV, fridge, kitchenette and microwave, Wi-Fi and balcony. A 60 sqm penthouse for the owner, Jacuzzi, 50” LCD TV, washing machine.

A great value property in a location surrounded by shops, guesthouses and bars.

For Sale 6.9m Bt (Owner finance available). Website Ref: BUSS026. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-property.com

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

HOUSES FOR SALE

Charming Tropical Bangsarey Home! Selling Price 12.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 160 Sqm/183 TLW. (PR2799) Beautiful Home in Jomtien Yacht Club!! Selling Price 29 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/4+1 Bathrooms, 390 Sqm/212 TLW (PR5846) Great Phoenix Lakeside Family Home! Selling Price 10.5 Million Baht 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 180 Sqm/200 TLW. (PR5035) Spectacular 7 Bedrooms Luxury Resort Style Residence on 3 Rai ! Selling Price 39 Million Baht and 7 Bedrooms/4+2 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/3 Rai. (PR6004) Stunning New 8 Bedroom Beachfront! Selling Price 65 Million Baht, 8 Bedrooms/8 Bathrooms, 650 Sqm/850 TLW. (PR6536) Great Family Home Near Town! Selling Price 24 Million Baht, 5+1 Bedrooms/7 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/660 Sqm. (PR6363) Stunning Townhome on Jomtien’s Dongtan Beachfront! Selling Price 22 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/4 Bathrooms, 25 TLW/400 Sqm. (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. (PR6075) Beautiful Home in Tadarawadi Village For Sale! Selling Price 42,075,000 Million Baht, 4 Bedroom /4 Bathrooms, 526 TLW/769 Sqm. (PR5758) Great Jomtien Park Villa with Very Nice Modern Furniture! Selling Price 34 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 238 TLW/500 Sqm. (PR4176) Gorgeous Lake View Thabali Home! Selling Price 7.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 90 TLW/206 Sqm. (PR4465) Great Home in the very popular Siam Royal View! Selling Price 29.9 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/360 Sqm. (PR4211) A Really Unique Estate on One Rai of Land! Selling Price 50 Million Baht, 6 Bedrooms/7 Bathrooms, 1000 Sqm/440 TLW. (PR5052) Great Home in View Talay Villas! Selling Price 12.9 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 160 Sqm/72 TLW. (PR4854) Great Private Estate Home! Selling Price 14.9 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 375 Sqm/500 TLW. (PR5365) Fantastic Estate Home For Sale! Selling Price 39 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/6+1 Bathrooms, 600 Sqm/291 TLW. (PR4516) Grand Estate Home or Resort with Restaurant for Sale with Great Business Opportunity! 8 Guest Suites all with en suite Bathrooms! Americana Antiques in Every Guest Suite! Over 2 Rai of Beautiful Gardens (847 TLW) Absolutely Gorgeous Swimming Pool! 1950’s Rock n Roll era Siam Country Club Roadside Restaurant. (PR5796)

HOUSES FOR RENT

Fantastic Home in Great Developement! Rental 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.premierinternational.com (PR2184) Gorgeous and Brand New Marina Home! Rental Price 90,000 Baht/Month, 3+1 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/120 TLW. (PR3982) Impressive Lakeside Estate Home! Rental Price 125,000 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. (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. (PR2977) Wonderful Beachside Homes! Rental Price 80,000-110,000 Baht/Month, 3-5 Bedrooms/4-5 Bathrooms, 188-280 Sqm./75-100 TLW. (PRH133) Nice Rental Home in Phoenix Golf Course Area! Rental Price 95,000 Baht/ Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/600 TLW. (PR5230) Fantastic Home in the Mabprachan Lake Area! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 5 Bedrooms/3+1 Bathrooms, 360 Sqm/400 TLW. (PR0193) Stunning and Gorgeous Home for Rent! Rental Price 90,000 Baht/Month, 3+1 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/120 TLW. (PR3982) Beachfront Villa with Impressive Interior Design! Rental Price 130,000 Baht/ Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 350 Sqm/400 TLW. (PR6017)

CONDOS FOR SALE

Spectacular Penthouse For Sale! Selling Price 23.9 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/4 Bathroom, 363 Sqm.(PR5414) Wonderfully Designed Luxury Apartment! Selling Price 10.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 134 Sqm (PR5559) Beautiful Apartment with Sea Views! Selling Price 12.6 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 135 Sqm.(PR4136) Foreigner Ownership in Jomtien’s La Royale! Selling Price 11.95 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 148 Sqm . (PR4015) Great Sea Views and In Town Location! Selling Price 29.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 268 Sqm. (PR5786) Great Jomtien Beach Area Apartment! Selling Price 3.5 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/2 Bathrooms, 80 Sqm. (PR5084) High Floor View Talay III Condo Apartment!! Selling Price 14.4 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 198 Sqm. (PR5075) Nicely Decorated Apartment in Town at Northshore! Selling Price 9 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 67 Sqm. (PR4990) Great Sea Views and Stunning Décor in North Pattaya! Selling Price 7.474 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 74 Sqm. (PR4862) Wongamat Bay Sea View Apartment....This Month Huge Reduction! Selling Price is 13.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 210 Sqm. (PR3990) Best priced Apartment in Na Jomtien’s Pine Shore Condo! Selling Price is 8 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 91 Sqm. (PR4987) Sea, Sunset and Island Views at Jomtien Beach! Selling Price 10 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom. 165 Sqm. (PR6410)

CONDOS FOR RENT

Very Impressive Sea View Apartment!! Rental Price is 40,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedrooms/1 Bathrooms, 64 Sqm. (PR5045) Beachfront Living at its Best for Rent! Rental Price is 42,000-227,500 Baht/Month, 2-5 Bedrooms/2-5 Bathrooms, 77-450 Sqm. (PRC084) Beachfront Life Style for Rent! Rental Price is 85,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 266 Sqm. (PR0737) North Pattaya Beachfront Apartment....Definitely a 5 Star Lifestyle! Rental Price is 100,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 311 Sqm. (PR4262) Modern Designed Beachfront Apartment! Rental Price is 48,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 101 Sqm. (PR5423) Stunning Apartment for Rent in Northshore! Rental Price 40,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 64 Sqm. (PR4570) Fantastically Designed Apartment at Grand Condotel! Rental Price 42,000 Baht/ Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 95 Sqm. (PR4187)

LAND FOR SALE

Pratamnak Beachfront! Selling Price is 45 Million 203 Tarang Wah. (PLD0903) Na Jomtien Beachfront! 21 Rai 348 Tarang Wah from Sukhumvit 400 meters deep to a 45 meter beachfront! Two low rise buildings with 4 units each set upon a large swimming pool. Purchaser can build up to 70+ floor high rise. 24,188,384 Baht per rai and 60,471 Baht per tarang wah and the entire 21+ rai can be purchased for a selling price of 529,000,000 Baht. (PLD0866) Phoenix Golfcouse Area! Selling Price is 15.8 Million 7 Rai 200 Tarang Wah. (PLD0928)

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Fantastic Investment with Great Rental Return! 12 Million Baht only for Five (5) spacious 160 square meter 3 bedroom 3 bathroom multiplex houses on 37 Tarang Wah (148 square meters) of land each. That is only 2.4 Million Baht per house! All five (5) houses are currently rented and bringing in 80,000 baht per month total. (PR6164) Grand Estate Home or Resort with Restaurant for Sale with Great Business Opportunity! 8 Guest Suites all with en suite Bathrooms! Americana Antiques in Every Guest Suite! Over 2 Rai of Beautiful Gardens (847 TLW) Absolutely Gorgeous Swimming Pool! 1950’s Rock n Roll era Siam Country Club Roadside Restaurant. (PR5796)

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

E-mail: premier@loxinfo.co.th

www.premierinternatinal.com

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

Classified

Services Provided

Home Maid Ser vice &Design. Cleaning Services, Built-in Fur niture and Kitchen, Curtains Wall Paper, Renovations and General Maintenance. “One Call for All Service”. Tel: 081 657 5972, 089 9957078; E-mail: homemaidpattaya@gmail. com PAC Co., Ltd. Can renovate yo u r c o n d o a t a ve r y reasonable price with very good standard of work. Ring 087 139 1539 for estimates Eng, 087 150 4845 Thai If You ar e Having a P r o b l e m w i t h Yo u r Computer either software or hardware, please phone 0868202577 or 0812951310 (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 some printed matters at reasonable price, please phone 0868202577 (Thai) or 0812951310 (Thai &Eng)

Education & Training

Learn Fruit and Vegetables Carving from a Professional teacher with more than 18 years experience. For inquiries contact Yui at tel no. 0863209569 and/or 0852385453 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 & Deutsch.

Apartments for Rent

(ptmafr-r1413)AROMDEE APARTMENTS, quiet, clean, well maintained, with European management.

Fan/Ac rooms for rent start from 4000, baht monthly.

Free Wi-Fi, Cable-TV, Gym, and Car park. Inside Minimart, breakfast dishes, coffee bar/bar, 24 h laundry, and CCTV security coverage.

Within walking distance of Big C, Tesco Lotus, and BKK Bus Station North Pattaya. Phone Thai/Eng.: 082-304-3907, Phone Norwegian/Eng.: 087329-0300, Office/Fax: 038-370-861 Web: www. aromdeeapartments. c o m E m a i l : aromdeeapartment@ hotmail.com

1 - 15 January 2014

11 ZZ/35

Hostel for Rent

(ptmhfr-w0913)Hostel in Jomtien Beach 200 baht/ day - 6000 baht/month.

150m to the beach on Soi 4. Bed, kitchen, bath, AC, cable TV, free Wi-Fi. PS. No additional charg es. +66 0808218326 E-mail wrm215@aol.com

Houses for Sale

Bel-Air Villas Bang Saray From 3,950,000 THB. 0815760035 www. countrypropertyservices.net (ptmhfs-c0913)Jomtien Pa l a c e Po o l V i l l a . 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, European/Thai kitchen.

New pool with Jacuzzi.

Reduced from 12.9 to 8.9.

Finance possible. Email: colindjpattaya@gmail. com, pattayahouse_4rent@ hotmail.com, Phone: 0812907310 (English), 0922280687 (Thai). (ptmhfs-o0813)Beautiful ‘New’ 3 Bed, 2 Bath House Near Mabprachan Lake on 1 rai 45 TW of land with fruit trees/private water well.

House 165 sqm. Internet/ cable connected. 7-11 and Lotus Express only 1 km from the house and 6-8 mins. to Central Pattaya on highway 36.Reduced price for quick sale 5.3 million.0831029293 Pool Villa For Sale – Jomtien - A very nice renovation, the detached single storey villa, land area 248 sqm, living area 130 sqm. Stylishly furnished throughout with top quality fittings, 3 bedrooms, 2 luxurious bathrooms, full European white kitchen with oven and microwave, dining area, living room, flat screen LCD TV in every room, private pool, pool side terrace, water features, remote closing gates, communal pool, 24/7 security and just 600m to Jomtien Night Plaza, food market, restaurants, shops and bars. Great value.

Price: 4.99mBt.Website Ref: PLVS142. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-property. com Pool Villa For Sale – East Pattaya - A spacious and stylishly fur nished throughout, executive style pool villa in one of the most popular developments in East Pattaya offering 3 ensuite bedrooms , 230sqm land 480 sqm with built-in units, 4 luxurious bathrooms, fully fitted European kitchen with oven, Thai kitchen, open plan living room and dining area, private 10m pool, terrace, lovely tropical landscaped private gardens, covered parking, 24/7 security and 10 minutes drive to central

Pattaya. Must be viewed to fully appreciate what’s on offer. Sale Price: 6.95m Bt. Website Ref: PLVS190.

Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Pool Villa For Sale – East Pattaya - A spacious and stylishly fur nished throughout, executive style pool villa in one of the most popular developments in East Pattaya offering 3 ensuite bedrooms with built-in units, 4 luxurious bathrooms, land 480sqm, living area 230 sqm, fully fitted European kitchen with oven, Thai kitchen, open plan living room and dining area, private 10m pool, terrace, lovely tropical landscaped private gardens, covered parking, 24/7 security and 10 minutes drive to central Pattaya. Must be viewed to fully appreciate what’s on offer. Sale Price: 6.95m Bt. Website Ref: PLVS190.

Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com House For Sale –Bang Saray - 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. Website Ref: PLVS092. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-property.com House For Sale – East Pattaya - An ideal budget single storey home in a small village just 5 minutes from Sukhumvit Road, offering 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, land 22 Tw, living area 65 sqm, Thai style kitchen, c ove r e d p a t i o t e r r a c e, unfurnished except for one bedroom. Price: 1.5M. Ref Code: HSES121. Tel. 085 129 5657 Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property. com www.pattaya-jomtienproperty.com

Gorgeou s L ake Vi ew Thabali Home! Selling Price 7.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 90 TLW/206 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com.

(PR4465) Great Home in the very popular Siam Royal View! Selling Price 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. premierinternational.com.

(PR4211) 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. premierinternational.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.premierinternational. com (PR4854) G r e a t P r iva t e E s t a t e 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. premierinternational.com (PR5365) Fantastic Estate Home For Sale! Selling Price 39 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/6+1 Bathrooms, 600 Sqm/291 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR4516)

P.A.C. Co., Ltd.

Tel: 087 139 1539, 087 139 1570 (English) 081 004 6497 (Thai) E-mail: info@pacpattaya.com For details and pictures www.pacpattaya.com

View Talay Residence 2 Near Soi 5 Immigration.

200 meters from beach, 86 sqm, 1 bedroom apartment overlooking swimming pool.

Beautifully furnished, big screen TV, big Euro kitchen, nice big balcony. Very sensible priced, only 3.9 Mil Baht. In foreign name. *** GOOD LOCATION *** Beach Mountain 2 Condominium Jomtien Off Soi Chaiyapruek 1. 800 meters to beach (Built 2010). 7th floor 37 sqm studio, big balcony for distant sea views, fully furnished, big screen TV, kitchen, big bathroom, pictures, plants, etc., Facilities such as swimming pool, fitness center, shop. Good quiet location. Very cheap price 1.4 Mil Baht. In foreign name.



House For Sale –East Pattaya - Located on a spacious corner plot in this popular, quiet and secure village less than 5 minutes from Sukhumvit Road and Central Pattaya, the single storey property is offered living area 150 sqm , land area 390 sqm ,unfurnished with 3 bedrooms, 2 luxury b a t h r o o m s, E u r o p e a n kitchen, living room, dining area, landscaped tropical gardens, communal pool and clubhouse, 24/7 security.

An ideal property for those looking for a quiet and secure village yet near to all amenities..Price: 4.99m Bt. Website Ref: HSES096. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property. com. www.pattaya-jomtienproperty.com C h a r m i n g Tr o p i c a l 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. premierinternational.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) Great Phoenix Lakeside Family Home! Selling Price 10.5 Million Baht 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 180 Sqm/200 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR5035) Spectacular 7 Bedrooms Luxur y Resor t Style Residence on 3 Rai ! Selling Price 39 Million Baht and 7 Bedrooms/4+2 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/3 Rai. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR6004)

Stunning New 8 Bedroom Beachfront! Selling Price 65 Million Baht, 8 Bedrooms/8 Bathrooms, 650 Sqm/850 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR6536) Great Family Home Near Town! Selling Price 24 Million Baht, 5+1 Bedrooms/7 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/660 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PR6363) S t u n n i n g To w n h o m e on Jomtien’s Dongtan 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 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com. (PR6083) Char ming 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.premierinternational. 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.premierinternational. com. (PR5758) Great Jomtien Park Villa with Very Nice Modern 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.premierinternational. com. (PR4176)



Houses for Sale

Classified

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

Majestic Jomtien Condominium. 700 Meters Jomtien Beach. 60 sqm, 1 bedroom, 1 living room apartment, 3rd floor. Beautifully renovated with fully equipped Euro kitchen, all matching furniture, 2 big screen TVs, 2 ACs, big bathroom, 2 big balconies overlooking garden and swimming pool.

Very cheap price 1.6 Mil Baht. In foreign name.

Jomtien Beach Paradise, Right on the Beach.

42 sqm studio, 9th floor with lovely sea views.

Completely renovated to high standard with Euro kitchen. Lovely quality matching furniture, big screen TV, oil paintings, etc. Fantastic location.

Only 1.7 Mil Baht. In foreign name.

Beautiful 30 Sqm Studio, 4th Floor Overlooking Big Swimming Pool in the Majestic Jomtien.

Just been completely refurbished with lovely matching furniture, A/C, small kitchen on balcony, fridge, big screen TV, sofa bed, oil paintings and plants, everything you need. A real must see, reduced to 850,000 baht. In foreign name.

D L SO

*** Five Star Condo ***

View Talay Residence 4, Soi 5 Jomtien next to immigration and150 meters to beach. This lovely 4th floor, 56 sqm studio, over-looks the swimming pool with some sea views. Beautifully furnished with big Euro kitchen, marble showeroom, big screen TV and a huge balcony, 24 floor secutity.

Only 2.9 Mil Baht (in foreign name).

D L SO

Porchland II Jomtien Resort 700 meters from the beach, 38 sqm, 1 bedroom, 1 living room.

Unit on 7th floor with beautiful view of lake and sea view. Two LCD TVs, built-in wardrobes, Euro kitchen, 2 ACs, all matching furniture, everything new. This is an ex show unit must be viewed at 1.9 Mil baht (in foreign name).

D L SO

***For Rent***

D E T N RE D E T N RE

Pratamnak Soi 6 Jomtien 200 meters to beach 42 sqm studio, 6th Floor with big balcony for sea views. Fully furnished, Euro kitchen, everything you need. Nice swimming pool. Excellent location.

Only 12,000 baht per month.

Pratamnak Soi 6 Jomtien 200 meters to beach 84 sqm, 2 bedroom,, 1 living room apartment with two balconies, 3 ACs, 3 TVs, Euro kitchen. Fully furnished top floor for sea views. Only 24,000 baht per month.

CONDOS BOUGHT FOR CASH WE HAVE SEVERAL STUDIOS STARTING AT 500,000 BAHT IN FOREIGN NAME.

All the rooms from P.A.C. have been renovated by ourselves to the highest standard, you will find

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1 - 15 January 2014

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12 ZZ/36

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

Houses for Sale

Grand Estate Home or Resort with Restaurant for Sale with Great Business Opportunity! 8 Guest Suites all with en suite Bathrooms!

Americana Antiques in Every Guest Suite! Over 2 Rai of Beautiful Gardens (847 TLW) Absolutely Gorgeous Swimming Pool! 1950’s Rock n Roll era Siam Country Club Roadside Restaurant.

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 (PR5796) Tropical Jomtien Villa with Private Swimming Pool: Thai-Bali Style, 3 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms, And 524 Sqm Sale Price: 7,950,000 THB. (Co Name) Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email to dew@ bbpasia.net J O M T I E N PA L A C E ESTATES- Modern style 6 bedrooms home, 3 bath, and 3 beds upstairs and downstairs. Living Area 280 SQM 10.9 million (Co name) please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email to dew@bbpasia.net View Talay Villas with Private Swimming Pool, Jomtien 1 bed 1 bath 4.49 mil (thai name) Freehold.

Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email to dew@bbpasia.net 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. (Freehold) Thai Name Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085910-5124 (Thai) Email to dew@bbpasia.net Pob Choke Garden Hill – Just Built - New House 2 Bed 2 Bath. Located in Bangsaray just off hwy. 331. Sale Price: 1,699, 000 THB (Freehold) please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email to dew@bbpasia.net

Nirvana Pool Villas 1 - 3 Bed 3 Bath House with Private Pool/Fully Fur nished/ Enclosed Garage 364 SQM. Sale Price: 5.9 Million THB co. name (Freehold) please call 0823440822 (eng) 085910-5124 (Thai) Email to dew@bbpasia.net Baan Suay Mai NgamNewer 3 Bed 4 Bath House/ fully furnished/private pool/ owner must sell 3.25 Million Thai name. (Freehold) please call 0823440822 (eng) 085910-5124 (Thai) Email to dew@bbpasia.net View Talay Villa with Private Swimming Pool, Jomtien 2 bed 2 bath 8.9 million (co name) Freehold.

Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email to dew@bbpasia.net

Houses for Rent

(ptmhfr-c0913)Jomtien Pa l a c e Po o l V i l l a . 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, European kitchen. New pool with Jacuzzi. Rent short or long term, available after 24 th January. Rent rate in February – 4,000 THB per day. Rent rate in March – 60,000 THB per month. One year rent contract – 50,000 THB per month. Email: colindjpattaya@gmail. com, pattayahouse_4rent@ hotmail.com, Phone: 0812907310 (English), 0922280687 (Thai).

J O M T I E N PA L A C E HOME- 3 Bdrm 3 Baths modern 140 SQM Fully fur nished with private Jacuzzi, towels, and linens.

30,000 per month for (1 year lease) please call 085910-5124 Email todew@ bbpasia.net View Talay Villas with Private Swimming Pool, Jomtien 2 bed 2 bath 55,000 THB/Month (1 Year Lease) Fully Equipped Please call 085-910-5124 Email to dew@bbpasia.net House For Rent - Stunning detached single storey property in this exclusive d e ve l o p m e n t , j u s t a 5 minutes drive to Jomtien Beach. The property offers 2 bedrooms, 2 ensuite bathrooms, European kitchen, open plan lounge, living area 120 sqm ,land area

Classified

240 sqm, covered sun terrace, covered parking, communal pool, gym, restaurant, tennis court, park and children’s play area, key card entry, 24/7 security and just 5 minutes from Tesco and downtown Pattaya. Minimum rental period of 6 months applies.

Rental Price : 30,000baht per month. Website Ref: HSER026. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-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. Website Ref: HSER011. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-property. com Pool Villa For Rent – Jomtien - Located in this exclusive new development near to the new Jomtien 2nd Road this moder n design single storey pool villa is stylishly finished and furnished throughout offering 2 en-suite bedrooms, 2 luxurious bathrooms, 125 sqm , land area 210 sqm ,high gloss European kitchen, open plan living room and dining area, UPVC windows, private pool, poolside sun terrace, car parking, small park outside the property, 24/7 security and just 700m to the food market and shops and 1km to Jomtien Beach.

Minimum rental period of 6 months applies. Rental Price :55,000Bt or 45,000 baht for 1 year contract. Website Ref: PLVR289. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-property. com

Pool Villa For Rent – Silk Road - Stylishly finished and furnished throughout, single storey family home in one of Jomtien’s 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. Website Ref: PLVR298. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-property. com Fantastic Home in Great Developement! Rental 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. premierinternational.com (PR2184) Gorgeous and Brand New Marina Home! 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) I m p r e s s ive L a ke s i d e Estate Home! Rental Price 125,000 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

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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) Resor t 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) Wonderful Beachside Homes! Rental Price 80,000110,000 Baht/Month, 3-5 Bedrooms/4-5 Bathrooms, 188-280 Sqm./75-100 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. premierinternational.com (PRH133) Nice Rental Home in Phoenix Golf Cour se 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)

13 ZZ/37

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)

Condos for Sale

(ptmcfs-p0713) Pratumnak Park Royal 3 Brand New 45 Square mtr 1 bedroom.

Modern Professionally and stylishly decorated. Fully furnished. Thai Name, & includes free Company.

Price: 2.5M THB. For more information please call: Call: 082-340-0064 Email: peterbarker10@yahoo. com

14 ZZ/38

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Condos for Sale

View Talay Residence This is one of the most stylish furnished studios 57 Sqm available in these very popular modern low rise buildings, ideally located at the top of Soi 5, just 150m to the beach and 75m from the new Jomtien Night Plaza. This pool facing unit offers 1 luxurious bathroom, European kitchen, spacious and stylishly decorated living area with fitted wardrobes, large balcony overlooking the pool, UPVC double glazed windows and doors, key card entry, 24/7 security, covered parking and surrounded by restaurants, shops and easy access to taxi route. A really great value studio offered at well below normal price. Price 2.9M. Ref Code: CDOS745. Tel. 085 129 5657 Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property. com www.pattaya-jomtienproperty.com Avatara - With great sea views from Koh Larn down to Bang Saray and just 40m back from the beach, this high floor unit is superbly finished and stylishly furnished throughout with a stunning interior renovation by one Pattaya’s leading interior designers offering 68sqm 1 bedroom with fitted wardrobes and large balcony, 1 luxurious bathroom with open shower, fully fitted European kitchen with breakfast bar, open plan living room with large balcony, roof top infinity pool, Jacuzzi, fitness, key card entry, 24/7 security, Wi-Fi and just 40m walk to the beach, numerous fish restaurants, shops, and taxis. A contemporary building, which does set it aside, in a quiet secluded location. This is a ‘must view’ , to fully appreciate this beautiful beachfront location and the extensive interior design..For Sale: 6.9m Bt in foreign name. Website Ref: CDOS582. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-property. com Jomtien Beach Condo A really great buy studio 27sqm ,with new furniture throughout, bathroom,

Classified

new AC, water heater, bed, fridge, microwave, LED TV, internet, cable TV, balcony, communal pool, fitness, 24/7 security, cafes, bars, mini-mart, laundry all onsite and just 250m to the beach! Price: 890,000 Bt. Ref Code: CDOS715. Tel. 085 129 5657 Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property. com www.pattaya-jomtienproperty.com The Gallery - Very popular new moder n 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. Website Ref: CDOS128. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property. com. www.pattaya-jomtienproperty.com Neo Condo - With soft dimmer lighting and a new stylish interior this mid floor studio 37 sqm offers great value for money with European style kitchen, luxurious bathroom, well designed living area, balcony with furniture, communal pool, key card entry and a very short walk to numerous restaurants, shops, bars and taxis. For Sale: 2.7m Bt. Website Ref: CDOS635.

Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Spectacular Penthouse For Sale! Selling Price 23.9 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/4 Bathroom, 363 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) Wonderfully Designed 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.premierinternational. 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. premierinternational.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. premierinternational.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)

Gr eat 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) Sea, Sunset and Island Views at Jomtien Beach!

Selling Price 10 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom.

165 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 (PR6410) The Residence Jomtien Beach - Large Studio 52 sqm fully fitted and furnished 1.79 Million THB (foreign name) High Floor please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email to dew@ bbpasia.net View Talay 5C – 2 bed / 2 bath 146 sqm direct ocean front corner unit cool side, fully fitted and furnished 5.95 Million THB (foreign name) 3rd Floor please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email to dew@ bbpasia.net Sunset Boulevard Residence I, Corner Unit 1 Bedroom-1 Bathroom, Total Size 52 Sqm (co. name) Sale Price: 2,995,000 THB++ Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email to dew@bbpasia.net

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

Classified

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

Condos for Sale

Sunset Boulevard Residence I, (2) Studio Rooms, Total Size 36 Sqm each. Side by side 5th floor units with sea views Sale Price: 1,995,000 THB. Each++.Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email to dew@ bbpasia.net Jomtien Condotel – 81 sq meter 1 Bedroom 1 bathroom 3.59 million T H B ( Fo r e i g n N a m e ) please call 0823440822 (eng) 0859105124 (Thai) Email to dew@bbpasia.net 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 to dew@bbpasia.net

Condos for Rent

(ptmcfr-p0713) Jomtien Soi 8 Galler y Low rise Brand New 34 Square mtr Studio Ground Floor plus Private Court Yard. Modern professionally and stylishly decorated. Fully furnished with everything. Just bring your suitcase. Private quiet Soi. 2mins Walk beach. Roof Top Pool and Gym. 18,000 BTH Month. 1 Year Rental.

Call: 082-340-0064 Email: peterbarker10@yahoo. com Fo r R e n t i n S o i 6 . 2 bedroom, 1 living room, 84sqm apartment with two balconies. Fully furnished, 3 TVs, kitchen, 2 AC’s.

Excellent location. 24,000 baht per month. Call: 087 139 1539 For Rent in Soi 6 Pratamnak Jomtien. 42 sqm studio with big balcony for sea views. Fully furnished, kitchen. Everything you need. Excellent location.

12,000 baht per month. Call: 087 139 1539 Park Lane Resort Jomtien 1 bedroom 1 bath 36 sqm.

15,000 per month. (1 year Lease) Fully furnished linens, cooking utensils and are Pool View please call 085910-5124 Email to dew@ bbpasia.net Paradise Residence - Stylishly finished and furnished throughout in these new modern buildings just 100m from the beach and Jomtien 2nd Road, offering 1 bedroom 53 sqm, with fitted wardrobes, 1 luxurious bathroom, European kitchen, living room with large LCD TV, dining area, large balcony overlooking the communal pool, key card entry, 24/7 security and a minute walk to numerous restaurants, shops, bars and taxis. Minimum rental period of 6 month applies. Price: 20,000 Baht per month, long term lease only . Ref Code: CDOR390. Tel. 085 129 5657 Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property. com www.pattaya-jomtienproperty.com

Jomtien Beach - A low floor studio32 sqm, in these popular buildings, nicely furnished throughout with fitted wardrobes, luxury bathroom, European kitchen, balcony, huge communal pool, key card entry, 24/7 security, mini-mart, laundry, cafes, bars, internet, travel agents all on-site and just a short stroll to numerous restaurants, shops, bars and taxis. Minimum rental 1 year..

Price : 10,000 Bt per month.

Website Ref: CDOR392.

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) 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. premierinternational.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.premierinternational. com (PR4262) Modern Designed Beachfront Apartment!

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. premierinternational.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.premierinternational. com (PR4187)

4 units each set upon a large swimming pool. Purchaser can build up to 70+ floor high rise. 24,188,384 Baht per rai and 60,471 Baht per tarang wah and the entire 21+ rai can be purchased for a selling price of 529,000,000 Baht . 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 (PLD0866) Phoenix Golfcouse Area!

Selling Price is 15.8 Million 7 Rai 200 Tarang Wah For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www. premierinternational.com (PLD0928)

Job Vacancies

Land for Sale

(ptmjv-n0713)Ger man couple is looking for full time HOUSEMAID (6 days/ week) at the Mabprachan area. Start date is January 02, 2014. We are looking for an honest, trustworthy, English speaking person.

Job experience would be an advantage. Nice working environment, g ood and increasing salary and additional incentives. Please call 0817622682 or email tonh.seiter@gmail.com Accountant wanted for condominium project: 1 position available.

Minimum 1 year experience.

Computer skill – MS Excel, MS Word. English is a plus. Female. Must be able to work overtime. Maid wanted for sales office and showroom: 2 positions available. Female not older than 45.Hardworking with service mind. Messenger/ driver wanted: Male. Must have driver license for car

(ptmlfs-c0913)Land for Sale. 4 Rai next to Indoor Stadium. Reduced to 2.5 million THB per Rai. Email: colindjpattaya@gmail. com, pattayahouse_4rent@ hotmail.com, Phone: 0812907310 (English), 0922280687 (Thai). (ptmlfs-c0913)Land plots around Bang Saray, 081 576 0035 craigrhodes48@ gmail.com Pratamnak Beachfront!

Selling Price is 45 Million 203 Tarang Wah For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0903) Na Jomtien Beachfront!

21 Rai 348 Tarang Wah from Sukhumvit 400 meters deep to a 45 meter beachfront!

Two low rise buildings with

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and motorcycle. Must be able to work overtime and travel.

Please call K. Passanee 081 293 3390 or send resume to passanee@ therivierapattaya.com Assistant to Condominium Manager Wanted. We are looking for a female who is interested in working with property management. Job description: customer service to the condo community residents, proper ty 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 Wa i t r e s s Wa n t e d f o r International restaurant.

Must speak English. Good salary + tips. Call 091 240 4331.

Vehicles for Sale

(ptmvfs-l0913)2003 Mercedes 180C, 117,000 kilometers. Good care by 2 engineer expat previous owners. Black with light grey interior in great shape with new tires, 1800cc engine has

ZZ/39 15

low fuel consumption and always serviced with Mobil 1 oil, 1 month warranty 50/50: 750,000 baht or best offer.

Call 081 782 2617 Honda Jazz 1.5, Auto 2010.

Leather interior, remote central locking, 2 airbags, 55,000 km, grey colour. As new, 420,000 baht. Call 083 102 9293 2005 NISSAN TEANA 230JM- Diamond Black/ Cream Leather interior, all options, new paint, serviced

by Nissan, low miles, 559,000 call 0841580785 Audi A4 1.8 Automatic 1996. Colour Red, 17” BBS Genuine alloy wheels, C.D., alarm. Excellent all round condition. Thai owner.

Only 196,000 baht. Call 086-820-2577, 086-383-6853 Toyota FORTUNER, 3.0 TURBO DIESEL, Automatic –Toyota Fortuner, 3.0 turbo diesel, automatic 4x4 2005, champagne gold, tan leather (top model). 1 foreign owner from new, 150,000 km, full service history, all original and immaculate, inside and out. Must see for only 690,000 baht (in foreign name). Call Alan (owner): 087-139-1570 (English)

Solution Sudoku Issue 08

2 3 6 5 1 7 4 9 8

4 9 7 8 2 6 1 3 5

8 5 1 9 3 4 6 2 7

1 8 9 6 7 2 3 5 4

7 4 2 3 5 8 9 6 1

3 6 5 4 9 1 7 8 2

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Deadline Issue January 16-31

Please forward your classifieds by 5:00 PM on January 6

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net

Fax: 038 374 535

or drop off at our office 221/3 Moo 11 Sukhumvit Road, Nongprue Banglamung, Chonburi 20150

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Tips & Advice

What Our

Readers Say

Politics and Tourism We asked 100 international tourists in Pattaya their opinions as to their holiday plans in the light of recent political troubles. Around 70 percent said what happens in Bangkok has little or no bearing on their plans. Below is a selection of views.

I think that tourists are not staying in Bangkok but moving directly to the provinces, especially Pattaya, Phuket and Koh Samui. Room occupancy rates in Pattaya right now are very good. (Steve Kerrigan) I can only tell you that Walking Street was packed when I was there last weekend. I think some Chinese arrivals have been put off by the political woes but the Russians are here in big numbers. (Zebco Stattin) What worries people is a military coup or a seizure of the international airport by a group of protestors. I think it’s clear that neither of these things will happen.

The army and the yellow shirts have learned from their mistakes in the past. (HK) It’s the social media these days which can influence people on a day-by-day basis. If you look at Facebook’s contributors, for example, it’s clear that the dislocation in Bangkok was only at the city centre. Mostly, life is normal. (Kathleen Warner) Thailand has to sort itself out in the medium term or risk a downturn. It’s not only tourism but all the other sectors of the economy. It’s too often forgotten that

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Visa to Dhaka Q: I read on the internet that a UK citizen can visit Bangladesh without a prior visa provided he or she cannot get to a Bangladeshi embassy or consulate.

I am a handicapped person, so does this apply to me. I will be visiting my relatives in February and I am based in Thailand.

A: You need a prior visa. The exceptions, as far as Brits are concerned, are those applying from a country which doesn’t have a Bangladeshi embassy or consulate. There is an embassy in Bangkok so you must obtain a visa there.

You could contact the embassy to see if a third party could act on your behalf. There does not appear to be a facility for completing the process online.

British passport Q: I am pleased to see that British citizens in Thailand now apply direct to London for a renewal passport as the Hong Kong business was rather silly and obtaining Hong Kong dollars difficult to say the least. Otherwise is the procedure by post the same as it was before?

A: Not entirely. You now have to submit a colour-copy of every page of the expiring passport, including blanks, whereas you only needed to send the ID page copy to Hong Kong. You must not send your actual passport by post as, under Thai law, you must have it here for ID purposes. The British government is aware of that.

Visa to India Q: Along with most EU nationals I need a visa to go to India. I did apply for a single entry but in fact the visa is a double entry and valid for six months. I read

the ASEAN Economic Community starts in just over two years. (Jean Bodin) Looking back, I think Thailand is finally waking up to the need to reform politics and end corruption.

If something positive emerges from the current problems I think they will have been worth it. (FV) I hear the number of retirement visas being issued is actually greater than in 2012. The trend is being helped by the rise in the value of some currencies such as the pound and the euro. Don’t forget the property market is doing well also. (Hermann K) Obviously political troubles play a part I’d say, but the problems of Pattaya are not that. The real problems here are petty crime, scams, Jet Ski rip offs. These are the issues that the Pattaya authorities need to address.

(El Bono) People tell me that the crowds are moving elsewhere, but I doubt it. There has been rioting in Cambodia too, and Malaysia or Vietnam are hardly the places I’d choose for a great time. But what Pattaya needs is a 24-hour permission to serve alcohol. (Jack the Lad) Actually tourists are more sophisticated than many commentators believe. I rarely hear about political problems, but many people are concerned about the lack of safety measures here. Look at the terrible boat accidents and road crashes. (PY)

somewhere that two months have to elapse before you can use the second entry. Is this true?

A: No longer. There was indeed such a 60-day gap rule but it was rescinded for most nationalities a few months ago. Incidentally, the Indian government always issues double-entry visas (even if a single was requested) to EU nationals. The fee is not reduced if you insist on one entry.

Ninety days problem Q: My visa is valid until April 2014 and I last entered the country on my re-entry permit on August 7, 2013.

Somebody has told me I should have reported my address in early November, but surely this is unnecessary for a work permit holder? Am I in big trouble?

A: All foreigners who are in Thailand three months after they arrived, and want to stay longer, must report their address to the immigration. It is irrelevant which kind of one-year visa you have. It’s best to go the local immigration office as quickly as possible and pay the 2,000 baht fine. There are no other consequences. The three months’ reporting rule is quite separate from your visa.

Two or four weeks Q: I have a 30-day stamp on arrival from Suvarnabhumi airport and I understand I can apply for a week’s extension at the immigration. But I need to stay another three weeks. So what is the best thing for me to do?

A: In the past you would have received only 15 days if you had done a visa run to the Cambodian border. However, earlier this year, some nationalities were approved to receive 30 days. Britain is one of the lucky countries. So take a day trip to the Cambodian border just before your 30 days expires and you’ll receive another 30 days.

Elite card holder Q: I hold a Thailand elite card and I need to renew my visa soon at the Thai immigration. My question refers to procedure. Am I allowed to jump the queue or must I wait in line if it happens to be a busy day when I visit?

A: Most immigration offices will allow you to jump the queue as one of the perks of the elite card. Best to check with the reception or enquiries section of your local office.

Snap Judgment A messy New Year Most expats, including their embassies, are having difficulty understanding why anti-government protestors oppose a general election to settle the ongoing political crisis.

After all, what could be fairer than letting the people decide on a one man and one woman ballot basis?

It’s true that elections are the key to a robust democracy, but they mean little in isolation. Former Thai Prime Minister Anand Panyarachun once said that democracy, in order to be sustainable, must also embody tolerance, the rule of law, freedom of expression, accountability, and decentralization, amongst other criteria.

Democracy in Thailand is not like the British or American systems. Could you imagine David Cameron parking many billions of assets with hired help to avoid paying taxes and then pleading it was an honest mistake? Could you imagine Barack Obama giving his blessing to a war on drugs in which 2,000 people died and then declining an independent investigation? Could you imagine any western political party rejecting a binding ruling of the constitutional court? These things happened here.

Maybe Thailand is indeed different. The achievement of Suthep Thaugsuban, the anti-government protest leader, has been to put political change firmly on the Thai agenda. Even the government now agrees that political reform in the country is necessary, although to what extent it is sincere is questioned by some. So the government wants another general election, which it would likely win, whilst the opposition looks for a long delay in which some constitutional reforms could be enacted by the somewhat nebulous People’s Council.

In the old days, the military would have instigated a coup to sort out the matter on a temporary basis, but that is no longer an option. The Army top brass know that tanks on the streets would lead to strong resistance and the danger of an Egypt-type massacre emerging. A civil war might even ensue.

Thailand would become a pariah state at the very time when the free-trade ASEAN Economic Community is about to come on stream. Thailand’s economic prospects would literally shrivel.

Political polls suggest that the public at large is weary of both major political parties. Pheu Thai is still popular in the rural north and firmly backed by the red shirts. However, the enthusiasm is not quite as forceful as before as the controversial general amnesty proposals, now withdrawn by the Yingluck government, would have allowed those who ordered the Army to fire on the red shirts in 2010 to go scot free as well as whitewashing Thaksin. That would have been a bitter pill to swallow.

So how can the current crisis be resolved? What’s the point of a general election if the mobs return to the streets almost immediately? Will the courts intervene as they have in the past, to find this political party or that worthy of dismemberment?

Will the Army eventually to be forced to intervene if the troubles get out of hand? Could clause 7 of the constitution be invoked to install a royalist prime minister to engineer talks and compromise between the hostile groupings?

These are weighty matters that mere farang cannot influence, nor should they. But it is well known that one of the most recognized Thai characteristics is the spirit of compromise. It is rumored that secret meetings in high places are taking place. Certainly there is immense scope for a political settlement; where there is a will there certainly is a way. One solution could well be a public referendum on the need for political reform.

In the meantime, the high season in Pattaya is well under way. As has often been the case, the resort has benefitted from troubles in Bangkok as visitors head directly to the provinces. If the numbers on Walking Street and the feedback from hotels are any guide, the cash tills are ringing merrily.

So a Happy New Year to us all. And let’s hope those secret meetings are actually under way.

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Local Sports Local and International Motorsports Report Recent Race Updates: 2014 FIA Formula One World Calendar SEASON FINISHED UNTIL 2014 (SCHEDULE FORTHCOMING) www.formula1.com (free live timing and scoring online) **All events will be shown on Star Sports Asia 2014 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series SEASON FINISHED UNTIL 2014 (SCHEDULE FORTHCOMING) www.nascar.com (free live timing and scoring online) **All events will be shown on Star Sports Asia 2014 Indy Car Schedule SEASON FINISHED UNTIL 2014 (SCHEDULE FORTHCOMING) www.indycar.com (free live timing and scoring online) 2013 MotoGP Grand Prix SEASON FINISHED UNTIL 2014 (SCHEDULE FORTHCOMING) www.motogp.com (free live timing and scoring online) **All events will be shown on Star Sports Asia **Local Thailand Motorsports Schedules 2013** Thailand Super Series 18- 22 December Bangsaen Street Festival (TSS) 2013 The final event of the 2013 Thailand Super Series was held at Bangsan Street Cirsuit on 18-12 December 2013.There were no less than the following cars in Class I and II and the Lotus Cup Thailand Niche cars.

Final results of points standings and Champions in next issue due to 7-day waiting period for any driver or team protests to be determined by the FIA and or organizers of the event 6 Lamborghini Galarrdos

1 Mazda

8 Porshes 997 and GT3

1 Holden

3 Toyotas

2 Aston Martins

3 Ferraris

2 Mitsubishis

1 Subaru

1 Ginneta

KTA Thailand Christmas Race Special Thailand’s Narapichit “Yo” Pudla and Germany’s Kathrin Borgwardt opened their bids to retain their Kite Tour Asia (KTA) course racing titles with dominant displays as the season kicked off in Phuket’s Chalong Bay. Over three days of intense racing, 23-year-old Pudla and 37-year-old Borgwardt scored bullets in all the formula raceboard heats they contested in the men’s and women’s divisions, giving them perfect scores in the KTA Christmas Race Special.

One of the event’s biggest surprises was Lisa Nikitina (UKR) victory in the twin tip class, which was run in separate alternate races from the raceboard class, allowing indefatigable riders to contest both divisions.

Nikitina, 23, a relative novice to racing, scored four bullets in the concluding third day, outpointing the experienced Borgwardt.

Perhaps more remarkable in one race was her crossing the line first; she beat all the men racing in the same fleet as the wind dropped and her weight advantage told.

The Phuket event– presented by sponsor Tamarind Villas and hosted

by Kitezone–was the first twin tip race competition since it achieved class recognition by the International Sailing Federation (ISAF), giving competitors the opportunity to score International Kiteboarding Association (IKA) world ranking points.

“I’m very happy, and a bit surprised,” said Nikitina. “In one race I even got a first place and beat all the guys, including ‘Yo’. I feel I’ve learned so much about racing and tactics in the

potential in the conditions that lightened as the day progressed.

Pudla’s exertions in the five raceboard division clearly told on his performances in the twin tip class, where he had turned

changeable, but still OK for racing,” said Pudla. “You have to look out over the course to see where the gusts are coming.

That’s the game. When I feel a gust I’ll try to point higher going

past few days: where it’s best to be on the course and how much to point upwind or go off the wind, depending on the conditions.”

Equally Doque Delos Santos (PHI), the reigning KTA twin tip champion, has every reason to be pleased with his performances which helped him walk off with a win for the first round of the season.

In the final day’s four races he scored two bullets, a second and a third to help him overhaul his closest rival in the class, Pudla. Atte Keppel (SWE) also had a good day on his twin tip, scoring two bullets by using his foil kite to its full

in strong showings on the first two days. But on day three he failed to win any of the races and was slightly off the pace.

But none of the men could touch him in the raceboard class. The wind that started out at around 16kts and dropped progressively to just over 10kts, also played to his advantage because of his slight stature.

Pudla’s blistering pace on the downwind legs of the windward-leeward track, using firstly his 13m kite and later the 17m, was too much for Adrian Geislinger (AUT) who in some races appeared quicker in the upwind tacking duels.

“The wind today was very

upwind and when it drops I bear off a little and go for speed.”

Fellow Thai and training partner Chanon “Jack” Phrakew, 32, was disappointed with his third-place overall finish. “I made a lot of mistakes,” he said. “The wind was better outside on the starboard side of the track, so I should have gone there.

Geislinger went out there and kept his speed better than me.

But at least I feel I’m getting closer to Yo, especially when the wind’s stronger.”

Borgwardt has also been forced to re-evaluate her strategy, at least for the twin tip class. She believes a larger board should help for the upcoming KTA round two in Bintan, Indonesia, this month. But her dominance of the raceboard class remains a source of satisfaction.

“I won every race in the raceboard class,” she said. “It’s been a great competition. We had five races on each of the final two days. It’s great when you get a lot of races. So, I’m happy.”

14 Lotus Elise and Exige V6 (one make race Niche Cars) www.thailandsuperseries.net Bobby Brooks™ Follow me on Twitter: @racebobby

Bunker Boys @ The Ranch

by Geoff Parker

Pleasant Valley G.C. (Stableford) We were scheduled to play at the Navy course today, but when our organiser rang up the day before to book a caddy, we discovered that our booking had been cancelled to accommodate a tournament—of course, without anybody from the course bothering to tell us. After some hasty phone calls we were able to arrange a suitable tee time at Pleasant Valley and set off up the 7 motorway in bright, sunny weather. We tee’d off on schedule and the course was in good shape although the greens were slow and grainy–almost at Navy course speed. Gordon Melia is certainly not a great fan of this course and normally would probably have taken a day off, but this was his last game before returning to U.K. for a

Christmas break, and his last chance to secure more points to consolidate his lead in the race for the Golfer of the Month title. Gordon certainly seized the opportunity with both hands, and a great back nine score of gross 38 (playing off a handicap of 18) gave him a massive total of 43 points to secure the win. Gordon also managed to take the near-pin prize on the par three 17th hole, topping his tee shot which went skimming down the fairway heading directly at the pin, but coming up 12 inches short, leaving a straight uphill putt for an unlikely birdie. Colin Greig took second place on a count-back ahead of Geoff Williams with Tony Scambler claiming the final podium position a point further behind.

We welcomed back Blair (Skinny)

Newton today at the start of his annual visit; he’s turned over a new leaf, forsaking Heineken for tonic water !

Results: 1st Gordon Melia (hcp. 18) 43 points 2nd Colin Greig (hcp. 9) 37 points 3rd Geoff Williams (hcp. 14) 37 points 4th Tony Scambler (hcp. 9) 36 points Near pins: Colin Greig, Gordon Melia, Tim Winder, and Tony Robbins.

Bangprakong Riverside G.C. (Stableford) Another bright, sunny and cool (some said “chilly”) morning as we set off from The Ranch for the 85km trip up the 7 motorway to Bangprakong. With a course length of over 6,700 yards from the white

tees, this course is not short, but it’s always in good condition and is more forgiving than many other local courses, so we usually expect someone to card a good score. Today though the scores were exceptional, with Geoff Williams truly hitting top form and leading the way with a fantastic 44 point total. Following a disappointing first few games, Geoff’s form has gradually improved and we can only guess what heights he might achieve before the end of his visit – certainly his handicap will be substantially reduced! Tony Robbins must have been very disappointed to find that his 41 point total was only good enough for second place, and a count-back was needed to separate Rab McDonald and Colin Greig for the minor places. The only disappointing aspect of the day was that the crowded course resulted in numerous holdups, so we were forced to endure our first five-hour round of this high season, meaning there

were some very tired golfers when we eventually returned to Pattaya.

Results: 1st Geoff Williams (hcp. 13) 44 points 2nd Tony Robbins (hcp. 14) 41 points 3rd Rab McDonald (hcp. 14) 37 points 4th Colin Greig (hcp. 9) 37 points Near pins: Colin Greig, Geoff Williams, Mark Stanley, and Tore Elliasen.

The Bunker Boys are a PSCaffiliated golf society who play out of The Ranch bar on Pattaya 3rd Road (in front of the fire station, and almost opposite the Buffalo Bar). We play three times per week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. If you enjoy a fun day out and a friendly but competitive golf competition, why not come and join us? We meet at The Ranch at 9 a.m. for breakfast and transportation. New players are always welcome. Contact Buff on 086 046 5091 or 080 605 5663.

For news, schedules and results go to www.bunkersociety.com.

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Tips & Advice QUICK TIP

If you’re reheating leftover pizza, skip the microwave. Instead, put the slices in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove and set the heat to medium low. Heat until warm. That will keep the crust crispy—not microwave soggy.

Beginner’s Pluck I just bought a house and expect to do some work (improvements and repairs) for the first time in my life, having recently retired. But while I now have ample time, I have no tools. Should I just pluck a few basic items from the shelves of home improvement stores? Or can you tell me what tools I might need in general? Remember, I’m just a beginner when it comes to DIY. Cecile Good Question, Cecile.

Too many people wait until they actually need a tool before purchasing it. But what do they do if their plumbing springs a leak in the middle of the night? So what tools should you have on hand? Be guided by your budget. Buy as many as you can afford—but don’t buy cheap items. First off, you will need two each (small and larger) good quality flathead screwdrivers, Phillips screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers. Also buy one claw hammer, a tape measure, and a flashlight (torch).

Those items are essential.

If you can afford more, get yourself a box knife with retractable blade, a small handsaw, wire cutters, a toilet plunger, and an awl.

If you’re really serious about tools and working around the house, you might also consider an electric drill and bits.

Sorta Mortar A numb-nut question maybe but do you know if any of the home decor or building material style shops sell small packs of premix sand and cement? I have looked around a bit but so far without success. I don't need a full bag of cement as I only potter about and do quick and small repairs to the house and outbuildings, and cement obviously has a limited shelf life before it sours. Any help would be appreciated.

Taff Not at all a numb-nut question, Taff. If you literally are looking for a premix of cement and sand, that is called mortar, which is available throughout Pattaya and beyond (in stores, that is). I have not seen any minuscule quantities that would allow you to repair only a tiny pavement crevice or hairline wall crack, for example, but you can readily find small tubs that will store for months at a time before souring. Mortar (premixed cement and

sand) is available at home improvement, hardware and other stores for as little as 159 baht for a five-kilo container.

Tightly resealed and kept in a dry spot, these tubs of mortar will have a shelf life of months or longer.

Off Track Fretting Our condo have sliding screen door go to balcony.

If open and close carefully, no problem. But many time must rush and push door not careful and fall off track.

After they jam up and very hard open and close. What I can do?

Satat Remove the problem door from its tracks, Satat, and locate the adjustment screws on the left and right side edges of each frame.

As you tighten the screw (turning to the right) or loosen it (turning left), the spring corresponding to the adjacent-track wheel should make the wheel rise or fall. You probably want to elevate the wheel or wheels to create a more snug fit, thus preventing the door from separating from the rail when moved. If the wheel does not react to the turning of the screw, the corresponding spring may have to be replaced (take it to a shop

Frank, Forthright & Frigid Dear Agony Ivy, My Dad’s Clothes I have the most embarrassing domestic problem and I really do not know what to do about it. Every week I visit my mother on a Sunday.

She is now well into her 70s and not all that well. The problem is that she invariably criticizes the way I dress and orders me to change into my father’s somber suits which she kept even though he has been dead over ten years. She then insists that I go shopping and I look absolutely ridiculous walking down the street or going round the supermarket in a striped suit and waistcoat. I have tried reasoning with my mother but she just switches off her hearing aid.

Nervous Norman

Agony Ivy writes: Dear Nervous Norman, I see what you mean and the photo you sent me does clarify just how stupid you look at the Tesco checkout wearing a bowler hat and sweating profusely.

There appear to be two solutions to your predicament. You could decide to put on a lot of weight, thus making it impossible for you to get into dad’s clothes. I see from the photo that you are half-way to this solution in any case. Alternatively, you could turn up at your mother’s house one Sunday in female clothes, a total drag as it were. If you choose this solution I guarantee that your mother will not switch off her hearing aid.

Dear Agony Ivy, Forlorn love I recently met a rather glamorous man

that specializes in screen doors). Before replacing the door on the track, lubricate each wheel, and thoroughly clean and lightly lubricate the tracks. After replacing door—careful to ensure each of the four wheels is properly set on rails, fine-tune your adjustments by raising or lowering the wheels until the door has minimum play as it opens and closes.

Getting Old Before moving to Pattaya, there was a time when almost everyone I knew was antiquing furniture. Which is to say that they would take an ordinary bureau or sideboard and somehow paint over it to make it look old. If memory serves, it required several coats of paint in several colors. Anyway, I’m wondering if there is an easier way to do the same thing with some tiredlooking pieces of furniture that I have here.

Ruby The easiest antique paint effect, Ruby, is called “crackle painting.” Just use an old rag to spread a coat of wood glue onto any wood surface. After about an hour or so, use a paint brush to apply a top coat of flat latex

paint. The paint will begin to crack, making it appear as if it had been there for a century.

Got It Covered I plan to paint our kitchen and both of our bedrooms, Andy, and I don’t know how to estimate how much paint I will need. Any suggestions?

Ronnie Roughly speaking, Ronnie, you can figure that a gallon of paint covers between 350 to 400 square feet (32 to 37 square meters) of wall space depending on how porous the surface is. Calculate the area’s measurements by multiplying the width by the height of each wall.

Frozen Fix Our house has all kinds of hardware that seems to have frozen into place.

For example, I couldn’t detach a water pipe without using excessive force. That resulted in damaging the fixture. I’ve tried using a lubricant, but that doesn’t work. Can you help?

Harold You’re not alone in thinking that applying lubricants will free up frozen

who bought the house opposite mine. He is always very polite and friendly even if rather reserved. He is approximately the same age as me (I was widowed after my husband accidentally fell asleep on a zebra crossing) and I have the gut feeling that he rather fancies me. He has already offered to return my books to the library which is a good sign. He does not seem to have any visitors, except for one man who visits every Wednesday afternoon.

I can’t help but notice that the curtains are drawn shortly after that. My friend says that they are probably watching videos. What do you think?

Lonely Laura Agony Ivy writes: Dear Lonely Laura, The jackpot question in my mind is what kind of videos they are actually watching. It’s possible that they are classic movie fans, or enjoy cartoons to excess, but you can’t be too careful in this day and age. My suggestion would be to ring the door bell about 15 minutes after the curtains are closed. If your glamorous man fails to respond to your persistent ringing or appears in a

parts, Harold, but they don’t.

Lubricants are not solvents.

They do not dissolve rust.

Use vinegar to do that. White vinegar cuts the rust better than any other commonly available product, and it is cheap and safe. Using a spray bottle, hold a piece of cardboard or a rag behind the item you're spraying and give the frozen item one or two good squirts. Then walk away. Let the vinegar work for 10 to 15 minutes. When you return, work the part back and forth gently but firmly, if it's a hinge or a pulley or some similar moving piece. If you have a nut on a bolt, perhaps on an old toilet seat, try turning it with the right size six-sided socket or closed-end wrench, or with the right size open-end wrench. This is not the time to use an adjustable wrench or pliers because you need to minimize the chance of slipping and rounding the shoulders on the nut or bolt.

If the piece won't budge at all, try treating it one more time. If it will move now, but only haltingly, you might apply some oil to smooth its recovery.

Signs of the Times Sign seen in a London department store: BARGAIN BASEMENT UPSTAIRS --Handy Andy

bath robe then you know the worst. In that eventuality you can start looking elsewhere.

Dear Agony Ivy, My wife of 35 years has just informed me that she is no longer interested in sex and that, from now on, we must sleep in separate beds. This is not a great tribulation for me as she has bad breath and wears hair curlers. Indeed I can say to you honestly that the whole thing is something of a relief. But we have decided to find hobbies or leisure interests together to ensure that our relationship as a whole does not collapse.

We can’t resume playing bridge because we used to argue all the time. So have you any better ideas?

Simple Simon Agony Ivy writes: Dear Simple Simon, I am sending you my pamphlet Sexual Alternatives in Late Life which has all the various options that you require. However, please note that there are no bingo palaces in Pattaya at the moment.

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Our Community Green Pattaya cleanup From Russia with care Large numbers of Russian expatriates and tourists joined the effort to make Pattaya clean at the 11th Green Pattaya cleaning outside The Royal Cliff Condos and Sheraton Hotel. On this extra cleaning day honoring the birthday of His Majesty the King, the volunteers filled 20 garbage bags.

One resident expressed his appreciation for the clean-up effort and

promised to appeal to his property management board to help keep the area clean in the future.

This is the ultimate goal of Green Pattaya-- 11th Green Pattaya cleaning not to do all the cleaning but to make the community aware and vans parked at night. When interiors to have everyone keep their own areas of vehicles are cleaned, the trash is mindlessly discarded, inasmuch as there clean.

Most rubbish comes from buses and are no rubbish bins.

12th Green Pattaya cleaning

International cleanup Green Pattaya and City Hall returned to Big Buddha Wat Phra Khao Yai where they filled a truck with rubbish that had been inconsiderately piled up and/or burned in the area.

Green Pattaya pointed out that the “pattern of the people living and squatting around this area needs to change since there is no doubt that some of them are dumping their rubbish there. If they live on free government land why can they not, at the least, keep the area clean?”

Volunteers reported even seeing a security guard dump his garbage in the forest below the temple grounds, noting “there are no bins in the area and it takes only one person to start dumping their rubbish and others follow totally forgetting it is a temple mountain and should be kept clean.”

The 15 volunteers were from Hawaii, Denmark, Serbia,

Ukraine, Argentina, Russia and Sweden; some were local Rotary members.

The local environmental group also collected eight bags of donated clothing and supplies for the homeless and sick that will be distributed by charities in Pattaya.

This was the 12th cleaning for Green Pattaya.

The public is invited to help Green Pattaya clean Cosy Beach on Saturday, Jan. 11, at 10 a.m. City Hall and local businesses are also invited to lend their support. “Dirty beaches do not sell properties or encourage tourism,” the group pointed out. A few recycle stations and public education efforts are in the planning stages.

For additional information see Facebook www.facebook. com/GreenPattaya, write to green@donate2thailand.com, or phone English/Thai 083 017 0632.

Pattaya Sports Club and Jesters improve the facilities

by William Macey

Families from all over Thailand, particularly from the north, come to Pattaya seeking opportunities for a better life.

Unfortunately, many learn too late that the streets here are not paved with gold; they are forced to live in slum conditions, some resort to scavenging, some become street vendors or find other means of generating meager income. What happens to the children of those families? And what becomes of children who run away from abusive homes, become street kids, or are victims of trafficking? Often lacking proper identification, they are precluded from attending school or receiving medical care.

Enter the Fountain of Life Center for Children.

In 2002, the Centre For Children relocated to a new building where the Good Shepherd Sisters were able to provide more help and opportunities to children in need. Jesters Care for Kids have been a big supporter of this centre for many years, and other groups have also contributed financially or helped in a variety of ways.

The Fountain of Life collects children from around Pattaya, providing them with education, medical help, nutritious meals and help in securing official documents, before returning them home at the end of each day.

Pattaya Sports Club and Jesters were asked to inspect the

toilet facilities at the centre which caters to more than 100 children every day. William and Woody discovered there was always a queue for the three toilets. Not only was there a need for additional facilities, but the existing toilets needed repairs.

Immediately Pattaya Sports Club and Jesters launched another joint venture to ensure that new toilets were built— exterior WCs for boys; interior for girls. Perhaps not an apt Christmas present, but certainly most welcome at the center’s Christmas party when the new facilities were officially opened.

The party was a great success with children performing The Nativity, singing Christmas carols, and showing their dancing skills, which delighted the many guests. All visitors came away aware that the children are happy and look forward to spending their days at the Fountain of Life.

Sister Joan, 80 years young, is the recognizable face of the centre. She came to Pattaya from Ireland after stops to do her good work for years with the Good Shepherd Sisters in a number of other countries reflected in the visa stamps that fill her passport.

To make a donation or to learn more about the Fountain of Life, contact William on 086 152 2754 or Woody on 081 344 4680.

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Youth Focus Inspiring creative writing through drama

by Ms. Nicola Ireland, Year 1/1, Mooltripakdee International School In ‘Connecting drama and writing: seizing the moment to write’, Teresa Cremin et al (2006) discuss a research study into the relationship between drama and process writing.

They concluded that one of the most significant ways in which drama can be used to engage students’

writing is through the opportunity it provides for creativity.

First, they researched a genre-specific approach in which they concluded that ‘the purpose of the children’s writing was compromised; it was produced to demonstrate textual competence, albeit

composed in an imaginative context’ (Cremin et al, 2006, p.276).

Rather than the genre approach, Cremin et al preferred what they called the ‘seize the moment’ approach to writing. Instead of prescribing a genre for the students to write in, students were free to choose, as the teacher intuitively chose a key moment within the drama lesson for the students to write.

Significantly, the children were more enthused to write, and the writing they produced was more effective and engaging.

Cremin et al discuss how the children wrote with greater urgency and took to the task more quickly due to the sense of purpose that the drama had

given their writing. They suggest that this is due to the creativity that drama enables: ‘This approach increased the children’s ownership and control over the compositional process since their writing was an integral part of the dramatic experience and often fed back into it. Such autonomy can positively engender creative responses’ (Cremin et al, 2006, p.277).

The fact that the

students were on task and wrote quickly suggests that the atmosphere in the classroom, created through the drama provided them with a desire, even a need, to write about their experiences because they felt real and exciting.

However, a drawback of this study is that in allowing the students to write in whatever genre they choose, it assumes a prior knowledge of different text types. In

order to write a letter, a newspaper or a diary entry, students must be taught how this text type should be structured and produced, what tone and style of language is appropriate to use.

Therefore, although the ‘seize the moment’ approach to writing is very effective in engaging students and producing effective writing, this can only be done with prior teaching of genre.

Cambridge recognizes student excellence

by Mark Beales Hyo Kyung (Sarah) Chi and Sirin Pornthipsakul (Yeen), Garden International School (GIS) students, achieved world-class exam results. Sarah was named first in Thailand for IGCSE Music and IGCSE Combined Science following the May 2013 examination sessions, and Yeen was named first in the world for IGCSE Thai.

Both students and their families were at Shrewsbury International School, Bangkok, for the Cambridge Outstanding Learner Awards, where British Ambassador to Thailand, HE Mark Kent, presented Sara and Yeen with special awards. Also in attendance was Chris Stokes, IGCSE coordinator at GIS. Yeen and Sarah are now in the GIS International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

For more on GIS, based in Ban Chang, visit www. gardenrayong.com.

Christmas Fun Day

by Mark Beales

Father Christmas paid a special visit to Garden International School (GIS) in Ban Chang as part of an action-packed Christmas Fun Day. Students brought their parents along to school to enjoy food and drink as well as stalls that included a coconut shy, ‘soak the teacher,’ a darts competition and Santa’s grotto where youngsters could whisper their Christmas wishes.

More than 100,000 baht was raised to support the school. Friends of Garden PTA raised around 24,000 baht.

For more on GIS go to www.gardenrayong.com.

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You & Your Pets Top Five Dog Grooming Basics

by Thonglor Pet Hospital Dog grooming is one of your dog's basic needs and an important part of dog ownership. Just like people, dogs need physical maintenance to look and feel their best. Fortunately, dogs do not need to bathe as often as people, but you do need to learn how much grooming your dog actually needs and keep it on a schedule. Generally, a dog’s grooming needs depend on the breed and hair type. If your dog has a skin, ear or nail condition, follow your veterinarian’s instructions regarding grooming. It is also important to use the appropriate grooming tools.

Here are some grooming basics:

more or less depending on the rate of growth. An alternative to nail trimming is the use of a rotary tool to file down nails. Consider the Peticure Grooming Tool for this task.

Cats for You in Pattaya

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/

Chockchai

3. Bathing

A small wee girl found wandering, lonely and frightened in a local village. She is now fully recovered from her sore eyes and flea problems, so all she needs now is a loving home to go to.

1. Hair Brushing

Tic, Tac, Toe

Most dogs enjoy being brushed, and sessions will strengthen the bond with your dog while maintaining a healthy coat. A dog’s minimum brushing needs depend on hair type. Choose the right tools and follow these guidelines.

• Long-haired dogs usually require daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling of hair.

• Medium-haired dogs may be prone to matting and tangles and should be brushed at least weekly.

• Short-haired dogs can typically go up to a month in-between brushing.

Regardless of hair type, you can brush your dog daily -- especially if he enjoys it. More frequent brushing during shedding season can help prevent hair build-up and excess shedding. Consider products like the FURminatordeShedding tool or the Bamboo Shedding Blade.

2. Nail Trimming

Nail trims are often detested by dogs and owners alike. Most dogs dislike even having their paws handled and know how much it hurts when nails are cut too short. Dog owners are often uncomfortable with the process for fear of hurting their dogs. Dogs will develop an aversion to nail trimming once they experience the pain. The best way to avoid this is to learn how to trim nails correctly and exercise caution.

Ideally, a veterinary technician, vet, or groomer should teach you how to trim your dog's nails. Most dogs need monthly nail trims, but your dog may need

A male emperor angelfish lives together with up to five female mates? If the emperor angelfish dies, one of the females turns into a male fish and becomes the leader of the group.

Bath time does not mean fun to most dogs and owners. It may bring forth an image of a wet dog running from the tub, dripping all over the house.

Bathing does not have to be this way if your dog can get used to it. He may not like the bath, but he’ll be easier to manage. Learn how to bathe your dog properly and make the experience as positive as you can for you and your dog. Most dogs should be bathed monthly, but bathing as often as once a week is not considered harmful. Always use a soapfree shampoo that is intended for dogs. Depending on the condition of your dog’s skin and coat, your veterinarian may recommend a specific shampoo.

In this case, be sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions about bathing.

4. Ear Care Your dog's ears can be a haven for bacteria and yeast if not kept clean. Some dogs can go their whole lives without ear problems, and the only routine ear cleaning needed is during the monthly bath. Other dogs have chronic ear disease and require multiple daily cleanings. Ear problems can often be traced to genetics. Dogs with floppy ears or long hair tend to be predisposed to ear problems because the ear canal simply does not have as much air exposure. Many ear problems are a sign of allergies. If your dog has excess debris or foul odor in his ears, your veterinarian will likely prescribe special ear cleaners and medications.

If your dog's ears are relatively healthy, you can help keep them that way with proper ear care.

5. Haircuts Dogs with continuously growing hair, such as the Poodle or Shih Tzu, typically need their hair cut every 2 to 4 weeks depending on the breed of the dog and the style of the cut. This task is often best left to professional groomers, though many dog owners are able to learn some basic maintenance haircuts. If you are interested in learning professional dog grooming skills, consider dog grooming school.

Three babes who were left alone after their mum was killed in a road accident. They are just starting to eat solid food now and, by the time you read this, they will be ready to go to new homes.

Felix

A fine and big mature fellow who just loves all the comforts of home as shown here! He is known as the Big Boss and is a champion hunter as well.

Moccha

A beautiful girl around four years old. She adores to be cuddled and requires more love and attention than we can give her in such a big family. She’s Queen of the Household.

Cat Corner Tip

by Dr. RJ Peters to Pattaya’s cat lovers

A common mistake new cat owners make is overfilling the food dishes, water bowls, and even the litter boxes. Clean, fresh water always should be available, of course, but food should not be left out all the time. Provide only the amount of food your pet will eat at one meal. When the cat has had its fill, remove the bowl until the next feeding time. This prevents the food from becoming stale or infested.

The litter box needs very little sand in it if you clean it throughout the day.

Having too much litter in the box often is the reason for a sandy trail around the box as the cat will scatter it while covering its deposits. They are not equipped to understand our desire for neatness, and some cats are quite the little excavators! If you have such a cat, use a box with high sides to keep the sand inside.

Dr. Peters’ informative and entertaining book, Our Amazing Cats, and her newest feline publication, Our Amazing Cats Vol. 2, are now available from Amazon Books and at www.ouramazingcats.com. Even more recently The Cat Lady has penned a compelling book on our canine friends, “Our Amazing Dogs.” To download ebook versions of any or all of the three books (only about 200 baht), go to http://youniquesolutions.com/3Books.html. For additional tips, or to subscribe to Dr. Peter’s free newsletter, The Kitty Times, go to: http://www. theproblemcat.com.

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1 - 15 January 2014

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Games

CROSSWORD Across 1.

4.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

16.

18.

20.

21.

24.

25.

26.

27.

miserly (5) remains of a fire (6) pulled at christmas (7) revolving arm (5) female peer (4) conveyance (7) diocese (3) magnesium silicate powder (4) naked (4) colliery (3) encroacnments (7) boom (4) try to get a lift (5) study of ufos (7) blush (6) dim with tears (5)

Down 1. equipment 2. type of piano 3. mongrel 5. trader 6. tempted 7. test for suitability 8. serious 13. letters game 15. high and dry 17. from of address 18. pretentious person 19. earnest request 22. demonstrate the truth of 23. search carefully

(6) (5) (4) (8) (7) (6) (5) (8) (7) (6) (5) (6) (5) (4)

Solution Issue 07

Brain Tester

This week’s subject GENERAL KNOWLEDGE 1. Who was the first female US secretary of state?

2. A bobolink is a bird, a fish or a plant?

3. Who plays an ordinary man mistaken for the messiah in a 1979 Monty Python movie?

4. Which British monarch instituted the DSO? 5. Who was Time’s man of the year in 1940?

6. Jirasan national park is in which Asian country?

7. In which movie did Donald Pleasence play Himmler?

8. Which five letter country has the most UNESCO world heritage sites?

9. In which decade did Starbucks start operations in US?

10. In which US city did Starbucks open their first branch?

11. Who is the Crafty Cockney?

12. In which year did Peter O’Toole die?

13. In which year did Joan Fontaine die?

14. How many times was Silvio Berlusconi prime minister – 3 or 5 or 7?

15. The ulna is in which part of the body?

16. The milk of which animal makes Roquefort cheese?

17. Which vegetable is most commonly used in cooking worldwide?

18. In which decade did Stalin die?

19. What number Benedict was the previous pope to the present one?

20. Who played the principal German spy in the movie Eye of the Needle?

o f f e r u r o t r o o p e p w e u l n a t f i o ch e e t u me r i t e b t l aw a r e l i r mo l e s t

Sudoku

1. Madeleine Albright; 2. Bird; 3. Graham Chapman; 4. Victoria; 5. Winston Churchill; 6. South Korea; 7. The Eagle Has Landed; 8. Italy; 9. 1970s; 10. Seattle; 11. Eric Bristow; 12. 2013; 13. 2013; 14. Three; 15. Arm; 16. Sheep; 17. Onion; 18. 1950s; 19. Sixteen; 20. Donald Sutherland.

• A small boy swallowed some coins and was taken to a hospital. When his grandmother telephoned to ask how he was, a nurse said, 'No change yet.'

• A chicken crossing the road is poultry in motion.

• The short fortune-teller who escaped from prison was a small medium at large.

• The man who survived mustard gas and pepper spray is now a seasoned veteran.

7 5 8

9

f e n a t r h e a u t a c o e m e i t

6 7 2 2 5 4

4 9 1

n d a e s h r e d h m h e t p t l h e

Solution on Page 39

3 6 2

4

Answers:

PUNS

o f b o r r o e no w x a r ow n d i s un k m i t

7

3 9 5 6

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Beachfront Jomtien Residence Najomtien, Sattahip, Chonburi 20150 Thailand Mobile: (+66) 082 256 4849 Website: beachfront@compasspattaya.com 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