Vol 13 issue 09 16 31 january 2014

Volume 13, Issue 09

16 - 31 January 2014

30 BAHT

What’s Inside:

Tourist Police on the Move

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attaya’s 50-strong Foreign Tourist Police Assistants (FTPA) have announced plans to expand their activities assisting the work of local tourist police superintendent, lieutenant colonel Aroon Promphan, throughout the city. Until recently, FTPA and a larger number of Thai volunteers have been largely restricted to helping tourists and sorting out public order problems in the busy Walking Street area. They operate principally from a mobile minibus unit which is stationed nightly until the wee hours. “We have already begun a motorbike patrol several times a week with Thai volunteers and the regular tourist police to offer a visual presence in other entertainment districts in Pattaya, Naklua and Jomtien,” said FTPA group leader Wayne Walton. “There is radio contact with headquarters so that the team can be dispatched quickly to any trouble spot in the city.” Agreement has also been reached to establish a second mobile office in the Soi Buakhao area to be

operated by the tourist police and volunteers.

Wayne explained, “The foreign assistants are now working more closely with the Thai volunteers under a new ‘buddy’ system, which means that they patrol together, have access to more languages and can communicate more easily with the general public.” The 50 members of the FTPA can speak 20 languages among them, although only a small number are fluent Thai speakers. Applicants are screened through several processes including police checks here and abroad and a lengthy induction and training program. Most, but not all, FTPA members have a police or army or security background in their career profile. It is also necessary to hold a one-year Thai visa.

The FTPA has also strengthened the regular tourist police at the local headquarters on Buddha Hill by a daytime rota of volunteers to

Continued on page 4

Wayne Walton, FTPA group leader (left), with national tourist police chief Roy Inkapairoj (centre) and FTPA team leader Gianni Fari

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16 - 31 January 2014

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News Credit card scammers arrested

Two Romanian tourists found in possession of 300 fake electronic cards, an ATM skimmer, and 32,000 baht in cash, were arrested by Chonburi police. At a press conference, it was revealed that Oleg Sveatobog, 32, and Vasile Dodon, 30, admitted their guilt.

They said much of the skimming had been done in UK, but the actual withdrawing of the cash was performed in Thailand, Pattaya in particular. The proceeds were sent to Romania, they said, after the pair took their cut.

Money lenders Elderly tourist attacked and robbed kidnap wrong man

Franz Eibl, a 75-year-old German tourist, was attacked and robbed of 1,000 euros in Jomtien. Police were called to a hotel in Jomtien by security staff who found the man sleeping.

Eibl later told police he had

been out drinking and was attacked as he was returning to his room. The assailants broke the man’s nose. Eibl had been picked up from the pavement by a security guard, where he promptly fell asleep.

A group of five men abducted a Vietnamese man identified as Nguyen Van To, 33 years old, in the Soi Buakhao area and bundled the man into their van. The man’s alarmed wife hopped onto a motorbike taxi and followed the kidnappers’ vehicle. When

the victim was asked by a teenage gang member why he had not repaid a loan, the Vietnamese responses revealed that the gang had kidnapped the wrong man. Gang leader Chainarong Harnchana, 26, later told police it was simply a case of mistaken identity.

Marital dispute Navy sergeant leads to death killed in accident

A woman claimed she attacked her husband with a pair of scissors when he threatened her during a drunken confrontation.

Arriving at the scene in Nongprue, police found the corpse of 56-year-old Sawat

Jaiprasit. He had a large stab wound in his shoulder. His wife, Pornwilai Thipsena, told investigators that Sawat was a very quarrelsome type and, on the night in question, had tried to kill her with a knife, so she stabbed him in self-defense.

Ariya Uthisinthi, a 28-year-old Navy sergeant stationed in Sattahip, was killed when his motorbike collided with a van.

The driver of the van, Krit Krittiyawong, said he was turning right turn from Sukhumvit Road when the motorbike suddenly appeared at a high speed and crashed into the side of his vehicle, instantly killing Ariya. Police are investigating.

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News Premier Pattaya Property Show at Hilton

Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome and other government officials were at last week’s opening of the Pattaya Property Show organized by Mike Bridge and produced by Exact Trading and City Hall. The exhibition, first of its kind in Pattaya, was in the Grand Ballroom of Hilton Pattaya. It was sponsored by Universal Group (Seven Seas, Savanna Sands), Blue Sky Group (Atlantis, Grande Caribbean, Venetian), and A+Property. The event was designed to attract Thais and foreigners to the local real estate market, and to create a positive identity for the city and promote its increasing value and economic development.

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News Continued from page 1 help members of the public reporting problems there including thefts, credit card losses and scams. Future plans, not yet finalized, will see FTPA patrolling on Koh Larn beach and perhaps assisting at the Suvarnabhumi airport tourist assistance centre.

Wayne said, “Traditionally FTPA have been translators for the regular tourist police

Tourist Police on the Move but we are now diversifying our activities under the supervision of regular Thai officers.”

The national commander of the tourist police, major general Roy Inkapairoj stated recently that his force is around 2,000 officers short of the number necessary to deal with the kingdom’s ever-growing tourist market

especially from China, South Korea, India and the Middle East. He added that Thai and foreign volunteers were very important in this context.

The FTPA in Pattaya has its own wide-ranging website at www.ftpapattaya.org.

Applications to join are very welcome and full details are provided there.

Barry Kenyon, the FTPA

media affairs officer, said a short in-house video of the work of FTPA was now being finalized and would be publicly available on the website and on YouTube next month. “We felt it was time to have our own short film on what we do and what we don’t,” he said. “Things are moving at a very fast pace right now.”

Police commander orders less crime

General Adul Saengsingkaew, commander of the Royal Thai Police, said there will be a crackdown on street crime and scams to make Pattaya a safe environment for tourists.

Dog saved from grisly end Sawangboriboon volunteers rushed to Sugar Resort where they rescued a dog trapped in a drain in front of the Jomtien hotel. The animal was pulled out of the hole with a rope after a local woman heard the dog’s yelping in distress and summoned the authorities. It is thought the animal had been trapped for several days for it drank and ate a great deal on being freed.

Cop slaps Russian woman A video clip taken from a security camera showed a policeman striking a female tourist near the Chai Mongkol temple in South Pattaya when language barriers caused communication

problems. The incident arose when two Russians were stopped for a minor traffic violation. The visitors could not understand what the officer was saying and an argument ensued. Following

an investigation by police superiors, the officer apologized for slapping the tourist, and he pointed out that he struck out when pushing away one of the Russians’ mobile phone.

Shooting suspects arrested Police surrounded a house in Nongprue, Banglamung, and took into custody four Thai men who were suspected of involvement in the shooting and dumping in the forest of a teenager who lived at the same residence. Investigators believe that the murder occurred after the victim refused to tip up the proceeds of a methamphetamine sale. One of the alleged murderers accidentally shot himself in the leg. Police found a gun on the premises and sent it for analysis to determine if it was the murder weapon.

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News Lisicki heads line-up at 2014 PTT Pattaya Open T h e W o m e n ’ s Te n n i s Association’s 2014 PTT Pattaya Open retains its date behind the Australian Open, increases prize money to US$250,000, and features an exciting line-up of stars headed

by Wimbledon finalist Sabine Lisicki of Germany. Winner of the tournament, which will be played at the Dusit Thani Hotel from Jan. 26 to Feb. 2, will get a check for $43,000, plus 280 ranking points.

Lisicki, currently ranked 15 in the world, makes her second appearance in Pattaya; she reached the finals here last year, going down in a three set marathon to Russia’s Maria Kirilenko. At Wimbledon she beat Serena Williams before falling to Marian Bartoli in the final hurdle.

Making her comeback appearance in Pattaya is crowd favourite Vera Zvonareva of Russia. She missed the 2013 season after having surgery on a shoulder injury. She is hoping to recover the form which led her to back-to-back wins in Pattaya in 2009/2010 and to the dizzy heights of No. 2 in the world.

Another crowd favourite returning is Romania’s Sorana Cirstea. She has an excellent record in Pattaya, reaching the semi-finals in 2012 and 2013.

A newcomer to Pattaya is Russian Ekaterina Makarova who, along with fellow Russian and doubles partner Elena Vesnina, won the French Open doubles title and were runners-up in the year-end WTA Championships. The pair is also accomplished singles players finishing the year at 24 and 25 in the world respectively. Another new face here is Germany’s Julia Goerges who, after a relatively poor year in 2013, is looking to climb back up the rankings.

The PTT Pattaya Open is celebrating its 23rd anniversary in 2014, making it one of the longest running tournaments on the WTA calendar and the oldest women’s professional sporting event in Southeast Asia.

Play beings with the qualifying rounds Jan. 26 and 27, with main-draw matches starting Jan. 27 beginning at 3 p.m. each day until Jan. 31. For the final two days of the tournament, Saturday Feb. 1 and Sunday Feb. 2, matches will start at 4 p.m.

For more information on the tournament and tickets, call 02-3113414/5 or go to www.pentanglepromotions. com. Tickets are also available at Thai Ticket Major 02-262-3456, or www.thaiticketmajor.com

Students help motorists

Water factory opens in Sattahip

Vocational students from Pattaya Technical College joined officials from the Department of Land Transport in Banglamung to help motorists check their vehicles for safety. The volunteers

Navy Commander Admiral Vijarn Theeranet presided over the opening of the iPure Water factory in Sattahip. Chokperm Poonsarp Co., Ltd., was established last year to produce drinking water through filtration by natural methods and reverse osmosis without the use of chemicals. The location in Sattahip was chosen because of its growing customer base and ideal weather conditions to produce the drinking water from natural underground water sources.

set up the free help sites at several PTT stations around the city. Motorists called the service useful, saying that it helped to identify problems such as bald tires, fading batteries and body rust.

Rahim named pastry chef at Centara Grand Mirage Robert John Lohrmann, general manager of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, appointed Abdur Rahim pastry chef. Rahim, from Bangladesh, has 24 years of baking experience with international hotel chains such as Holiday Inn and Marriott in Kuwait, and Westin hotels and Starwood International in Bangladesh.

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News

Mike Shopping gifts vendors

Surat Mekavarakul, president of The Group of Mike Companies, presented flower baskets and gifts to the new shops as Mike Shopping Mall turns 35 years old.

Chastity urged for headsmen

Pattaya government officials organized a meeting of local village headsmen and advised that their principal function is keeping the peace in their jurisdictions. They were also encouraged to maintain a chaste life free of crime, gambling, and drugs.

Deer found in Nong Palai pit

Unlicensed drugs seized

A rare chital deer was rescued after being found trapped in a pit near the Nong X Ae Pattaya Factory. The animal was kept under guard until its owner--Pattaya Sheep Farm-was found. Aekaphan Chaklang, 23, said he was going to the toilet at the back of the factory when he heard the animal crying for help. Fearing that the deer might be killed and eaten by locals, he pulled the trapped animal out of the hole. If the deer’s owner had not been traced, the animal would have been released into the wild by the Wildlife Conservation Office and Banglamung police.

Public health officials led police to a pharmacy in South Pattaya where they seized unlicensed packs of vitamins, herbs, medicines and cosmetic products. There had been rumors for months that unlicensed guides had been taking customers to the store to stock up on contraband goods. Three staff members were cautioned and taken to the police station.

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News Elderly club make merit

Pattaya Elderly Club members, headed by its president, Pranee Maneesarn, attended a merit-making ceremony at the

Health Department offices, where Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome and civic officials received a delegation and a gift basket.

Overcharging taxi drivers warned

Komsan Ekachai, deputy governor of Chonburi, lectured local transport operators that they must stop overcharging tourists. At a meeting of drivers, Komsan reminded them that

the illegal practice is a slur on Pattaya’s image. He said that the safety and security of tourists was a policy aim of the government, and that operators of taxis, tours, buses, vans and motorcycle

taxis must act in a more disciplined manner. The meeting also heard that ill-disciplined parking was adding to the traffic chaos at busy periods in the city centre.

City Hall celebrates Children’s Day

Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome led the annual celebration of Thailand’s National Children’s Day at City Hall. The city hall prepared games and activities and teamed up with Pattaya organizations which provided booths for children and raise awareness about their role in the nation.

New Years countdown at Mimosa

Jirachote “Nicky” Kaewsathean, owner and president of Mimosa Pattaya The City of Love, hosted a cabaret show, musical fountain and countdown to 2014 at the contemporary venue.

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News New motorbike helmet campaign

The best breakfast Well, it’s certainly the biggest and the most impressive. The Rovers bar in Soi L.K. Metro is offering to donate a 50,000 baht kitty to the Father Ray Foundation if anyone can polish off at one sitting a dozen sausages and bacon rashers, ten fried eggs and enough beans, tomatoes, toast and black pudding to make a day to remember. Unsurprisingly, nobody has yet managed the feat. Surely eleven sausages would be enough?

New Year jams Wow, the traffic queues over the New Year holiday must have set an all-time record for long delays. That’s in spite of the opening of Jomtien Two Road which links to Sukhumvit. Some observers believe the situation will soon get even more congested as more and more tourists and Bangkok residents escape to Pattaya to avoid the looming shutdown of the capital.

Pedestrian joys There have been many attempts to solve Pattaya’s traffic woes – pelican crossings, cops taking more tea money at street corners, etc. But the city gurus have now added new hazard–speed bumps on Beach Road to slow down cars and motorbikes and help people to cross the road. Has it worked? Of course not. There are actually more accidents as drivers insist that their particular vehicle can safely speed over bumps.

Council members from four districts of Pattaya are encouraging motorbike drivers and riders to wear crash helmets. Deputy Mayor Wattana Chantanawaranon pointed out that not wearing the helmets is illegal and leads to more severe accidents. The government aims for a 100 percent success rate in the campaign and, toward that end, has donated more than 200 crash helmets.

MICE still going strong Thailand’s MICE industry (meetings, incentives, conventions, exhibitions) exceeded its targets last year in terms of both numbers and revenue. The country welcomed more than a million business travelers--an increase of 13.21 percent over 2012. The income generated was 88,485 million baht, an increase of almost 11 percent.

The plans for continued increase in 2014 include building cooperation networks internationally, classifying

strategic markets, and being creative to ensure that Thailand remains at the heart of Southeast Asia’s MICE segment. A number of upcoming international exhibitions in the country, including METALEX 2014, are expected to bring more business travelers to Thailand. Five-star hotels report record business in Pattaya, especially company conferences and niche markets such as weddings and medical tourism.

The Bibimbab sizzles

Stations without personnel It was a great idea to install lifeguard stations on Koh Larn, but they forgot to hire any lifeguards, so the whole exercise is pretty pointless.

More generally, Pattaya’s marine safety is indeed a pressing problem as embassies understandably worry about the deaths of their nationals in accidents. Over the New Year period, there were no nightly crossings between Pattaya and the islands. We all know why.

The numbers game On a recent visit to Pattaya, the national police chief hinted that the troubles in Bangkok had not led to a reduction in tourist numbers coming to the provinces. He added that the police had also helped by guaranteeing the safety of all visitors to the Kingdom. So that’s OK then.

But at the same time, the Tourist Authority of Thailand said Russian and Chinese arrivals had nosedived 20 percent.

Foreigners stealing jobs The Russians are in the soup again after reports that too many of them are taking jobs as tour operators and depriving the natives of the right to work. Some of the foreigners don’t even have a work permit, or so it is alleged. One suggestion would be for Thai tourist authorities to introduce crash courses in Russian for Thai graduates with a tourist or hospitality diploma. Language is the main problem.

Ladyboys again Over the holiday season there was a record number of scams or assaults perpetrated by the transgender community on or near Beach Road and Walking Street. Let’s be clear–there are many decent and trustworthy ladyboys and cross-dressers in Pattaya working honestly in bars, restaurants, hotels and offices. But you are not likely to meet them in the middle of the night offering you a horizontal leisure pursuit.

Phnom Penh alternatives Is it true that people are flocking to Cambodia to escape the Thai political battles? Not really. The capital city, Phnom Penh, is having its own demonstrations over politics and wages. Both Siem Reap and Sihanoukville are busy, but they always are at this time of year. Cambodia’s best attraction is its low-cost for everything except petrol and electricity.

Smokers love it as they are not hassled, for better or worse.

Drunk set free A Russian female tourist, who certainly appeared drunk, was not prosecuted even after her car collided with a roadside pole. Police said no action was taken as there had been no human injuries--a defense that doesn’t invariably work, it must be said. Bystanders said the woman was allowed to walk away from the scene because she spoke Russian and nobody could understand what she was muttering. Oh well!

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

The Bibimbab, the new Korean restaurant on Second Road adjacent to Tiffany’s, celebrated the New Year with the biggest bibimbab in Southeast Asia at Pattaya

Countdown. The restaurant also features Seoul Grill on its second floor with special, sizzling barbeque on its stone grill.

Economy and politics color Bangkok real estate market As Thailand’s economic growth softened throughout 2013 owing to the combination of lackluster export figures, rising household debt, and declining consumption and investment, long-standing political tensions flared up late in the year, further dampening the economic outlook for the end of the year into 2014. While most economists expect the country’s GDP in 2013 to grow by less than 4 percent and are now revising 2014 forecasts downward, Bangkok’s property market made it through the year relatively unscathed, yet it is expected to feel the impact in 2014, according to Jones Lang LaSalle.

Suphin Mechuchep, managing director of the professional services firm specializing in real estate, said the Bangkok property market “finished strong in 2013 despite unfavorable conditions throughout much of the year. Demand across property sectors was robust, as reflected by both steady growth in selling prices and rents, as well as the successful introduction of new supply.”

In the condominium sector, she pointed out, most new projects were

well received by buyers. Those near existing rapid-transit stations and those under construction had the highest pre-sales rates. Average selling prices continued to grow in 2013, though the growth rate was less than in 2012 due to stiff competition and ample supply.

Bangkok’s commercial property sectors performed well throughout 2013, according to Jones Lang LaSalle, as limited supply and strong demand drove occupancy rates and rents to all time highs in the office sector while the prime retail market is experiencing near-record high occupancy and rent levels. Across Bangkok, office occupancy has reached 90 percent, while rents have been increasing for nine consecutive quarters. In the prime retail market, occupancy is above 94 percent; rents have been increasing for 13 consecutive quarters, due largely to limited supply and strong demand from both local and international retailers.

“Strong fundamentals helped save the Bangkok property market in 2013,” Suphin said, “but at this point, it remains hard to predict where the market is heading in 2014.

The major concern by most parties is on the current political turmoil. We have already seen property developers, owners, investors and occupiers becoming more cautious, with some of them adopting a wait-and-see approach. The fact that some property developers and owners have become reluctant to invest in marketing and promotional campaigns exemplifies this trend.”

She went on to note, “Though experience from previous bouts of political unrest that Thailand has faced over the last decade suggests that short-term impacts from individual incidents of unrest on the property market have been limited, there has been longer-term uncertainty created by these events, as is evidenced by the fact that growth in Thailand’s foreign direct investment has not kept pace with its ASEAN neighbors in recent years.”

“With all eyes on elections scheduled for February 2nd this year,” the managing director concluded, “the most important factor in the outlook for 2014 is how quickly and smoothly the current political situation is resolved.”

Pattaya Today's lifestyle, travel and culture guide

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Vol. 02 No. 02 | Jan 16-31 2014

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Akvavit Grill & Bar

Pasta Pasta

Chevrolet Colorado with Duramax Diesel engine

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gourmet corner L10

automotive L11

Kyushu

Captivating Experience the enchanting beauty of ‘The Gateway to Japan’

Story and photos by Mike Perez

‘Enjoy a trail of famous castles, volcanic caldera, onsen spas, unique accommodation, shopping, and abundant nature along with the delights of the Jigoku Mushi dish and the famous Fukuoka City roadside stands offering ramen (noodles) in Kyushu.’

As TG 648 approaches Japan’s airspace, a wonderful scenery unfolds on the horizon; my first sunrise in the Land of the Rising Sun. All the thrill and excitement kick in as soon as the cabin speakers blurt out, “Ohayo gozaimasu” (good morning). My destination: Kyushu Island. It looks like a good morning, indeed, and I just can’t wait to see what adventure lies ahead.

Kyushu, in the southernmost part of Japan, is the third-largest of the country’s four main islands. Being isolated much from the Japanese mainstream, Kyushu still evokes a feeling closer to the “old” Japan -- a Japan that is more idyllic, rural and relaxed. Generally off the beaten path for many visitors, it is in fact the closest part of Japan to the Asian continent, and that is why it is called, "Gateway to Japan."

There are many points of attraction for tourists. Here are just the major ones, which we were fortunate to explore:

It took seven years to build. It was designed by feudal lord (daimyo) Kato Kiyomasa, who then ruled the area.

Only a few structures from its original construction in the 1600s, including the Uto turret, have survived the centuries and remain intact. Most parts of the castle were reconstructed in 1960. With its large 5.3km castle grounds, Kumamoto Castle offers one of the most complete castle experiences in Japan.

In the center of Kyushu is Mount Aso, with its gigantic and still active volcanic caldera. This ancient caldera -- the Mount Nakadake Crater

Sakura-no-baba Josaien

Kumamoto

Kumamoto, the government and economic center, is situated roughly in the center of the Kumamoto Prefecture and boasts valleys, virgin forests, and beautiful mountain sights. One of Kumamoto City’s main attractions is the Kumamoto Castle. Along with the Himeji and Nagoya castles, this castle is one of the most impressive in Japan.

Kumamoto Castle

Aso Sarumawashi Theater

crater of which has a circumference of over 100km -- ranks among the world's largest. In the caldera’s center stand the mountain's active volcanic peaks, Mount Nakadake’s spectacular 4km-

crater is easily accessible to tourists by a toll road or a ropeway.

Mount Aso is also part of the massive national parks system with plenty of walks and scenic stops along

Just down the hill from Kumamoto Castle is an Edothemed shopping complex called Sakura-no-babaJosaien.

There are numerous restaurants offering everything -- from noodle soups to more traditional teshoku (set meals) and buffets – making it a great stop for tourists. Expect local products such as Kumamoto’s lotus root stuffed with spicy mustard, sake, all kinds of Japanese desserts.

the way. One attraction is the “Aso Sarumawashi Theater,” which features performing monkeys.

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events

Vol. 02 No. 02 | Jan 16-31 2014

Amari Orchid Pattaya hosts media parties

eve n ts c a le n d a r CHINESE NEW YEAR 2014 CELEBRATIONS Date: 24 January – 4 February, 2014 Venue: Major destinations across Thailand

Amari Orchid Pattaya treated local media to two nights of food and drink.

The first night, a cocktail party at the Ice Bar, featured food, drink and the requisite lucky draw. The second, at the hotel’s Mantra Restaurant & Bar, guests enjoyed a five-course meal and free flow wine.

Activities: The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has lined up several celebrations to mark the Chinese New Year 2014 in various major cities with spectacular highlights, including: Bangkok (Yaowarat Road): Cultural performances from China, dragon parades and lion dances, street stalls selling Chinese cuisine, lantern decorations, and an exhibition of Yaowarat’s Thai-Chinese community, 31 January to 1 February.

Chon Buri (Pattaya): Spectacular lion and dragon dances on a high wooden pole, modern Chinese cultural performances with multimedia, magic shows, and Miss Pattaya China Girl talent contest, 30 January to 1 February.

Nakhon Sawan (Paknam Pho): Spectacular procession Chao Pho-Chao Mae Paknam Pho and Chao Mae Kuan-im (Guan Yin), acrobatic performances, dragon parades, lion dances and angel parades, 24 January to 4 February.

For more information: www.tatnews.org

11TH KHON KAEN INTERNATIONAL MARATHON Date: 26 January 2014, Sunday Venue: Golden Jubilee Convention Hall, Khon Kaen University Activities: The marathon is open to everyone from professionals to fun runners under a range of race and age categories. It will feature a full marathon for participants of 18 years or above, a half marathon for participants of 16 years or above, a mini marathon for participants of 12 years or above, and a fun run. All race divisions start and finish at the Golden Jubilee Convention Hall, Khon Kaen University. The marathon route features a scenic, loop course that travels past academic areas and through cultural and ethnic communities of Khon Kaen town.

For more information: Tel: 043 202 388-9 Email: info@khonkaenmarathon.com, khonkaenmarathon@gmail.com www.khonkaenmarathon.com

Hilton Pattaya hosts media dinner

MODERNDOG LIVE AT HARD ROCK CAFÉ PATTAYA Date: 31 January 2014, Friday Venue: Hard Rock Café Pattaya Activities: Hard Rock Café Pattaya presents Moderndog, one of the most successful alternative rock bands in Thailand with a massive following. Rock on from 11 pm onwards. Ticket at 600 baht including one drink. Bottle Package starts from 3,299 baht including entrance for four persons.

For more information: Hard Rock Café Pattaya Tel: 038 426 635 Email: hrcpr.pty@hardrockhotels.net www.pattaya.hardrockhotels.net

THAILAND INTERNATIONAL JAZZ CONFERENCE 2014 Date: 31 January – 2 February 2014, Friday-Sunday Venue: College of Music, Mahidol University (Salaya) Well known for bringing in superbquality jazz music, TIJC will, again, feature the greatest jazz musicians of our time from all over the world.

Top quality local jazz artists are also featured to make this Jazz Conference complete with great variety and quality.

Hilton Pattaya hosted a media dinner replete with live musical entertainment and a lucky draw. Prizes for best costume were awarded to guests.

Activities: By joining the TIJC Jazz Education Series, you will have great chances to meet and learn from the jazz masters from all over the world.

Workshop topics will range from jazz performance, solo improvisation, jazz show making, recording session, to topics for general jazz lovers. A TIJC solo competition is a jazz improvisation competition with reliable and comprehensible performance regulations using internationally recognized adjudicators.

For more information: Tel: 02 800 2525 ext. 150 Email: nicha_darin@hotmail.co.uk www.music.mahidol.ac.th/tijc

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events Centara jungle style party Keeping up with the resort’s Lost World theme, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya celebrated its thank you party in jungle style. The team led by general manager Robert John Lohrmann showed appreciation to its guests for the support provided to the resort. The event, which took place at the Centara’s Zulu Bar, saw the attendance of the resort’s patrons transformed into wild costumes. Resort management, including Centara Grand Modus GM Panas “Alex” Jureeratana, Centara Grand Phratamnak GM Dominique Rongé, and Centara Pattaya GM Austin Robinson, joined in handing out prizes to the winners of jungle costume contest and raffle draw prizes.

Vol. 02 No. 02 | Jan 16-31 2014

Level 34, Hilton Pattaya

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Vol. 02 No. 02 | Jan 16-31 2014

Holiday Events

Dance of the Decades at A-One hotel

A-One hotel’s New Year’s Eve is Fantasy Night

The A-One hotel celebrated New Year’s Eve with the theme of Fantasy Night. The gala dinner poolside featured seafood and international dishes, while entertainment included an Irish Fire Show, four regional dances, and fireworks on the beach.

Pattaya’s A-One hotel celebrated Christmas Eve with the Dance of the Decades poolside on the beachfront featuring Christmas carols, a cabaret show, Hawaii dancing, live band, games and lucky draw.

The hotel’s Christmas Eve Grand Dinner served seafood and international dishes including roast turkey, honey ham and homemade cookies. Children were photographed playing with Santa and everyone’s attention was captured by fireworks on the beach.

New Year's Eve Gala Dinner at Sheraton Pattaya Sheraton Pattaya Resort guests enjoyed an extravagant Gala Buffet Dinner on the beach, starting with a poolside cocktail reception and entertainment and dancing on the beach followed by fireworks at midnight.

HOT SUMMER PROMOTION 20% off everything except set menu

A very merry Christmas at Mantra

by Mick and Di

Mantra created a gourmet 6-course menu to celebrate the joys of the season on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. A smooth terrine of foie gras with wild berry compote launched the culinary festivities swiftly followed by Fine de Claire oyster chowder. Both these starters were sensational. Is there another terrine which produces such a feeling of well being than foie gras? We think not. The creamy oyster chowder with its underlying layering of flavours was another star dish. The clean, nutty taste of these epicurean oysters shone through and the discovery of a sweet, firm oyster bedded in the emulsion proved a surprise Christmas gift from chef Leonard.

A mid course of vodka and Japanese cantaloupe granite pleasingly cleansed the palate in preparation for the next courses whilst the angelic voices of the Father Ray choir filled the air with carols and seasonal songs evoking the true spirit of Christmas. Father Christmas then made an appearance to the delight of the many children present.

Three options were then presented for the main course: pan fried Tasmanian salmon fillet, 120 days grain-fed beef tenderloin served with grilled king prawn, baby beetroot and a Shiraz jus but we opted for the traditional choice of turkey breast. Served as a roulade and filled with a ricotta, mushroom, and chestnut stuffing it was delicious and a clever yuletide twist on the popular ballotine dish. Dessert presented a warm Christmas pudding with brandy Anglaise sauce and Stollen to bring our gastronomic Christmas Eve celebrations to the sweetest traditional finale.

Mantra is certainly a modish, modern restaurant which serves a massive selection of global cuisine

from the a la carte menu. Think extreme around-the-world dining.

Their Sunday brunch is a fabulous affair commencing at 11 a.m., it continues until 3 p.m., offering a new gourmet high for buffet food.

From seafood to Peking duck to prime roasts and Indian curries to the decadent chocolate fountain, it is sensational. It costs B.1,690+ with an additional B1,150+ for their top notch free flow wine buffet. If you haven’t already visited Mantra it deserves to be up there on your bucket list today.

Mantra is set on the grounds of Amari Resort on Beach Road, Pattaya.

Tel: (038) 429 591 or visit www. mantra-pattaya.com. Open daily from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., and Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.

L5

rendezvous

Vol. 02 No. 02 | Jan 16-31 2014

Dusit Thani Pattaya turns 26

Dusit Thani Pattaya marked its 26th anniversary last month with a merit making ceremony performed by nine monks from the Jittapawan Temple. The staff and management team, including GM Chatchawal Supachayanont (seated, fifth from right) are here on the hotel’s vast gardens after they paid homage to the spirit houses around the hotel grounds.

10th Visit to Sheraton Pattaya Resort, Plant a Tree Recognition

Flowers to the new Chiang Mai governor

Sheraton Pattaya Resort launched a program recognizing loyal guests who have stayed at the resort 10 times. On their tenth visit, guests are invited to a “Plant a Tree Recognition” event, planting a tropical fruit tree such as mango, rose apple, and jack fruit.

In photo are Tomo Kuriyama (right), hotel general manager, and Rajpal and Ratana Sachdev (third and second from right, respectively).

Somsak Saisawad (second from right), executive assistant manager of Centara Duangtawan Hotel Chiang Mai, congratulates Wichien Puthiwinyoo (second from left), who has just been appointed governor of Chiang Mai, at Provincial Hall. Also seen in the photo are Aungkana Kangphrome (left), public relations manager, and Parawee Kumpiranont (right), assistant director of sales.

Diana Group donates rice to Father Ray Foundation Father Peter, president of the Father Ray Foundation, was presented with 406 kilograms of rice by Sopin Thappajug, managing director of the Diana Group, and friends and guests of Diana Garden Resort. The donation will help feed the 850 underprivileged children and students with disabilities being cared for at the Father Ray Foundation.

Goods welcome New Year at Centara Grand Mirage

Celebrities holiday at Centara Grand West Sands

Actress Patricia Good and her family brought in the New Year on holiday at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort, Pattaya. In photo at the resort’s New Year’s Eve celebration jungle style are (from left) mom Piyanute Sae-ton; Robert John Lohrmann, resort general manager; dad David Good, Centara’s vice president of operations, and Patricia Good. In front is brother Matthew.

Pataratida "Tangmo" Patcharawirapong (left) and Amena “Mo” Pinit (right), actresses and models, seen on their arrival at Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas Phuket with Dechanont Wangthong, resort executive assistant manager.

L6

explore >> from L1

Oita

Vol. 02 No. 02 | Jan 16-31 2014

Captivating Kyushu

In northeastern Kyushu, Oita is popular among local and international travelers for its seafood trade, hospitality, and abundant hot-spring resorts and culinary delights.

One of the favorite destinations here is the Onsen Town called Yufuin. Nestled in a valley beneath the spectacular Mount Yufu (Yufudake), Yufuin’s pristine landscape condenses the Japanese beauty.

A must-visit spot includes Lake Kinrinko (or Kinrin), a small lake at the end of the town's main walking route.

At the bottom of this lake are hot and cold onsens, whose magical mists give the surrounding a fantasy-like setting.

Yunotsubo Street in Yufuin is another top attraction in Oita, one that provides special dining and shopping spots along the main street.

After exploring Yufuin, head off to one of Oitas’ famous hot spring resorts city, Beppu--home to eight major

KujuHanako-en

Just a short drive from Kumamoto's Aso region is KujuHanako-en (Kuju Flower Park), where fields of flowers are arranged and grouped together according to how they take turns to bloom. They bloom for most of the year, except winter. The park, located at 800m altitude in Kuju Plateau, covers some 49 acres of land and has wide paths leading through various flower fields. About three million plants of more than 500 different varieties grow here, including cosmos, lavender, salvia, tulips, sunflowers, and poppies. There is also a greenhouse, which exhibits tropical plants, and souvenir shops selling scented items and other plant products.

Umi Jigoku (the Sea Hell)

hotspots, referred to as the "eight hells of Beppu." The “hells” (also known as jigoku) are a collection of colored hot springs, including the famous Umi-jigoku. Ironically, this “hell” is in heavenly locations with massive lily ponds fed by steaming cobalt-blue and blood-red waters and volatile geysers.

Some burst as high as 20m into the air.

The water is so hot you can boil eggs.

Want to experience something out of the ordinary? Visit Beppu Kaihin Sunayu

Yunotsubo Street

Lake Kinrinko

(Beppu Seaside Hot Sand Bath), known for its open-air sand bathing found right along Beppu Bay. It might look weird, but being covered in red-hot volcanic sand is a fun-filled experience.

And wherever there's a hot spring or spa, there’s generally a ryokan, where visitors can enjoy the hospitality of a traditional Japanese inn. Of the many hotels in Beppu, Hotel Seika is unique. Located along Beppu’s bayside, its mixed modern and traditional ryokan-style accommodation makes it one of the outstanding onsen resorts.

Jigoku Mushi Kobo Kannawa Jigoku Mushi Kobo Kannawa (steamed dish kitchen) where they can try the specialty, Jigoku Mushi (hell-steamed) dish cooked by geothermal steam. This dish was introduced in Kannawa before the Edo period (1603–1868). A crash course is available for those who want to learn this traditional way of cooking.

"Jigoku Mushi"

The "Yatai"

Fukuoka Fukuoka is the largest and the most populous city in Kyushu. It used to be a Buke-town; Hakata has a history of being a successful international trade port and a town for merchants.

The modern Fukuoka is a product of the fusion of two cities, the port city of Hakata and the former castle town of Fukuoka became one in 1889.

Today’s Fukuoka is a vibrant, trendy metropolis renowned for cosmopolitan business centers, upscale nightlife venues, and wide range of hotels, restaurants and shopping malls.

It’s airport is in the central part of the city. The Marinoa City Fukuoka is the largest outlet mall in Kyushu, with a massive Ferris wheel, restaurants, open-air cafes' and 169 stores.

A most recommended activity is eating at the famous Yatai. Open-air roadside food stalls are possibly the city's best-known symbol and typical dishes to be Hakata Ramen enjoyed at Yatai are grilled chicken skewers (yakitori), hotpot (oden). Visitors can enjoy and watch as the entertaining chefs as whip up the popular Hakata ramen. There are various alcoholic drinks available, helping to make the Yatai a great place to get in touch with the locals.

How to get there: Thai Airways (THAI) operates daily roundtrip flights from Bangkok to Fukuoka (TG 648) with an Airbus 330 that seats 36 Royal Silk Class and 263 in Economy. The flight departs from Bangkok at half past-midnight and arrives in Fukuoka at 8 a.m. local time. The entire flight lasts approximately five hours. Enjoy the “Smooth as Silk” experience as the in-flight entertainment offers loads of games, music, TV programs, and movies. THAI also offers flights to other destinations in Japan, including, Sapporo, Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka.

(Ed’s Note: Special thanks to THAI, Kyushu District Transport Bureau, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Tourism (MLIT), Oita Prefectural Tourism Association, and to Miss Chonnakarn Akrapreedee for making this trip a delightful experience.)

Hotel Promotions Hilton Worldwide Launches New Thai Language Booking Engine with Two 72-Hour Time Sale Deals

Celebrate Chinese New Year with special privileges at Holiday Inn Pattaya

Guests enjoy 50% off room rates in participating hotels and resorts

Holiday Inn Pattaya celebrates Year of the Horse by offering Great Value Package that ensures you will have a memorable celebration. Available for booking until 30 April 2014, guests can experience their holidays in contemporary surroundings at Holiday Inn Pattaya.

Chinese New Year is the most important traditional Chinese holiday filled with great wishes and celebration among families. Holiday Inn Pattaya invites you to celebrate together with friends and family.

Book the Great Value Package by 30 April 2014 to enjoy free daily breakfast for two people, free daily restaurant credit of 1,300 baht per room while children 12 years and under will enjoy Kids Eat Free program.

Hilton Worldwide launched a refreshed Thai language website http://hilton.co.th/ introducing a new Thai language booking engine for Thai customers to have an easy end-toend booking experience for all properties within Thailand. In addition to browsing for information and rates, customers can now confirm their booking and receive their reservation confirmation in their native Thai language.

To celebrate this launch, the participating Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts and DoubleTree by Hilton properties in Southeast Asia are offering two 72-hour Time Sale deals that will give vacationers compelling reasons to plan their getaway in the first quarter of 2014 and save 50% on room rates at participating Hilton Worldwide properties in popular city and beach destinations in the region.

Exclusively in Thailand, Singapore, Maldives and Malaysia, the special offers for city breaks and beach holidays are scheduled from January 14 to 16 and from January 21 to 23, respectively.

For escapades to experience the vibrant cities of Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia, guests must make their reservations

between January 14, 12:00 am GMT+8 and January 16, 11:59 pm GMT +8, and complete their stays by March 31, 2014.

Sun-loving guests can take advantage of this special deal and plan their beach holidays in exotic locations such as Hua Hin, Koh Samui, Phuket, Maldives as well as Bali.

The booking window for these resort destinations starts from January 21, 12:00 am GMT+8 to January 23, 11:59 pm GMT +8. The stays must take place between January 21 and March 31, 2014.

For more information on this promotion or to make reservations,Thai customers can visit http://hilton.co.th/ or en.hiltonhoteldeals.com/72hrssale. Both offers require full non-refundable prepayment at time of booking and are subject to availability.

Terms and Conditions: - Subject to availability.

- 10 days’ advance booking is required.

- Full pre-payment is required at time of booking.

- Room includes daily breakfast for two persons.

- Room includes Food & Beverage credit of 1,300 baht per room per day. Note: The credit cannot accumulate and must be used daily.

- Kids ages 12 years and under eat free from the all-day dining restaurant with an accompanying adult guest.

- Offer is not available to groups of 10 or more rooms.

To make a reservation, please call 038 725 555 or visit www.holidayin.com/pattaya

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

L7

fairness-fitness-finery

Vol. 02 No. 02 | Jan 16-31 2014

Cellulite treatment by Thermage It is estimated that Cellulite afflicts about 90 percent of women over the age of 30.

Although primarily a problem with women, men can also have cellulite in the same

by Dr. Natnicha Loichuen areas of the body.

Cellulite is the name given to the dimpled (sometimes called orange peel or cottage cheese) appearance of skin caused by a bulging out of fatty deposits under the top layer of our skin. That layer of fat below the skin’s surface has always been there; it is only when the bond or connective tissues between the collagen layer and the fat starts to weaken that the process gets underway. When this layer of collagen gets too thin or too large, holes start to appear, and then the fat underneath starts to bulge out. This is what causes the bumps on our skin to form.

What causes cellulite?

The causes of cellulite are not well understood, but there are several theories that have been put forth as explanations. Among these are: •Hormonal factors – Hormones likely play an important role in cellulite development. Many believe estrogen, insulin, noradrenaline, thyroid hormones and prolactin are part of the cellulite production process.

• Genetics – Certain genes are required for cellulite development.

Genes may predispose an individual to particular characteristics associated

with cellulite, such as gender, race, slow metabolism, distribution of fat just underneath the skin and circulatory insufficiency.

• Diet – People who eat too much fat, carbohydrates or salt and too little fiber are likely to have greater amounts of cellulite.

• Lifestyle factors – Cellulite may be more prevalent in smokers, those who do not exercise and those who sit or stand in one position for long periods of time.

• Clothing – Underwear with tight elastic across the buttocks (limiting blood flow) may contribute to the formation of cellulite.

What are the two types of cellulite?

Research has identified two types of cellulite. The first is from any ‘pinch’ or ‘compression’ of tissue in the thighs or buttocks. An example of this is when you see the ‘orange peel’ look in your thighs when crossing your legs while seated.

This is very gender-typical to almost all women of various ages, and is suggested to be the compression of the fat-cell chambers underlying the skin.

The second type of cellulite is the ‘orange peel’ appearance that a woman may have in her natural stance or when lying down.

The cellulite procedure by Thermage The Cellulite procedure by Thermage is the result of 21 months of clinical and technology development. The

advanced, deep-heating ThermaTip CL rebuilds collagen connective tissues and improves blood flow to the tissue, helping to improve the smooth appearance of the skin’s surface without surgery, injections or downtime.

The Thermage system consists of one device platform with a large selection of single-patient treatment tips (i.e., face, body and eyes), each of which features a unique heating profile to target treatments for a specific area, including skin tightening, body contouring and the temporary improvement in the appearance of cellulite.

The special Body and Cellulite Tips deliver pulses of heat deeply into the subcutaneous layer. This tip uses the same mono-polar capacitive radio frequency technology as other Thermage tips, but penetrates much deeper into the sub-dermal and fatty layers of the skin, restoring collagen connective tissue and equilibrating fibrous septa elasticity to improve the smooth appearance of the skin’s surface. It also improves circulation and metabolism in celluliteprone tissues to reduce fluid and significantly improve the lumpy bumpy appearance of cellulite.

Most other cellulite treatments require multiple procedures.

Clinical evaluations have demonstrated that Thermage technology noticeably reduces the appearance of cellulite after just a single treatment. Ideal candidates for this treatment are patients who have a normal weight and a mild to moderate cellulite problem.

For more information and to book a FREE consultation, call Tel: 038 411 190, 038 411 990 or visit Nicha Clinic on Pattaya Second Road (opposite View Talay Beach Condo and Central Festival Pattaya). Website: www.nichaclinic.com, facebook: Nicha Clinic Beauty and Beyond

L8

top tables

Vol. 02 No. 02 | Jan 16-31 2014

Mick & Di The Food Lovers

thefoodloverspattayatoday@msn.com

Akvavit Grill & Bar

Jomtien’s Swedish kitchen We’ve reviewed this Swedish restaurant several times now and always leave having enjoyed immensely the cuisine and the cordiality of this most convivial restaurant/bar.

Swedish chef/owner Pele Peterson is the hands-on proprietor and regularly recreates his menu with new dishes to attract his regulars but retains the old favourites which have tourists and locals alike filling his tables nightly. He is the Scandinavian light in this kitchen, ensuring that all dishes receive his Swedish touch, but he also finds time to happily appear restaurant-side to chat with his guests and make informed recommendations.

The striking frontage is eyecatching with a contemporary lit bar lighting the restaurant’s façade and a white canopy ceiling. The ground floor, with a further two levels, offers al fresco or an air conditioned dining room.

Chef Pelle’s homeland sparkles through his food. Seafood and meat form the core of the typical Swedish menu, along with the ever-present potato. The term “husmanskost” is used to describe a sort of everyman’s cuisine: basic, unpretentious and traditional. The most famous example is, of course, the Swedish meatballs.

Other classic dishes include pickled

and fried herring, gravadlax (cured salmon) and pytt i panna (a potato hash). Even the most avant-garde chefs admire simple, old-school husmanskost and many seek to acknowledge its influence while putting an innovative twist on their dishes.

Being a lover of herring I immediately plumped to start with these luscious luvvies. Herring spoils so fast it is almost always eaten salted, pickled or smoked. I’ve eaten them in all these forms but there is something about Swedish marinated herrings that make them so special with the added bonus that these fish are among the foods highest in healthy omega-3.

Mick decided on smoked tuna fish (B.295) and while sipping on a glass of house white wine (B.170) our starters quickly arrived. The home smoked tuna was accompanied by an avocado cream and a wasabi honey sauce which made very good

friends indeed with the smokiness of the fish. The herrings were divine, soft, succulent and bursting with flavour. They were served, as is the tradition, with a skagen mix (small shrimp in dill mayonnaise) with sour cream, chopped onion, boiled potato, hardboiled egg and crisp bread. Other starters include wine boiled blue mussels in white wine sauce, toast skagen, and naturally a homemade marinated pepper/lime salmon.

Burgers have always been a popular choice especially the house Akvavit burger which comes with coleslaw, dressing, aioli, tomatoes, onions, cucumber, bacon, cheese, jalapeno chilies and French fries.

The planked steaks and fish seemed another popular choice. We noted many a laden wooden board heading across the restaurant but we opted for another big seller, a diced beef fillet dish called soute while I chose grilled red snapper fillet served with a dill Champagne sauce with pressed potatoes (B.475). The diced tenderloin of beef had been cooked with pepper, onion, Chanterelle mushrooms, red wine, cream and brandy. Served with a creamy mash it was a deeply robust dish.

Salmon of course is the star of Scandinavian cuisine and here it is served grilled with duchesse potatoes, hollandaise sauce and fresh vegetables. Skewers are another house speciality and come in huge portions in the meat of your choice, either chicken, pork, beef or lamb fillets (from B.470). Swedish meatballs are served in a creamy gravy with mashed potatoes and lingon berries

while the classic dish of “elephant ear” (a very large and very thin beef slice) is flavoured with butter and accompanied by a light Merlot sauce and French fries. Along with all this, the Australian steaks come highly recommended or Schnitzel Scandinavian style served with anchovies and capers with a red wine sauce and French fries (B.395). The Thai menu offers 18 dishes from tom yum soup to whole fried sea bass with garlic and pepper.

Recommended desserts include wonderful basil marinated strawberries in black pepper escorted by an ice cream scoop, also served with a whipped cream layered creation incorporating meringue, ice cream and chocolate. Apple pie with vanilla sauce or a new addition yoghurt cloudberry mousse topped with cloudberry and cinnamon are two desserts not to be missed.

Serving Swedish cuisine with a twist Akvavit successfully gives us a peep into this interesting cuisine.

Wine Cellar Pattaya

Famous Restaurant & Wine Bar - An exceptional selection of over 300 wines from around the world - Finest beverages at the lowest prices - Large selection of imported cheese and cold cuts - Premium single malt whiskeys and Cuban cigars

Pelle is always on hand to help and recommend before darting back into the kitchen to direct his chefs. Their weekend buffet is also proving a great success. From 12 noon to 4 p.m. for only B.295 you can take your fill of Swedish meatballs in cream sauce, chicken fajitas, roast beef, pastas, Swedish hash, grilled honey ham, BBQ ribs and much more. Here’s a beachside restaurant where you can enjoy the drink of your choice and snack on their scrumptious shrimp baguettes. The “After Beach” menu (3 to 6 p.m.) offers bargains on beers, mixed drinks, sandwiches and burgers. So many reasons to visit this gastro-bar restaurant – come here for a taste of international cuisine with chef Pelle’s Swedish twist.

Catering service available.

Akvavit

Jomtien Beach Road, corner of Soi 3 Open from 11 a.m. till late Tel: (038) 233 672 www.akvavitjomtien.com

Open Monday-Saturday 09:00-22:00 Happy Hour!

17:00-19:00

Two glasses of house wine for the price of one when order with the cheese & cold cuts platter

555/32 Moo 5, Naklua Rd. Soi 12, Pattaya City, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel.: 038 22 60 54, Fax: 038 22 60 55, Email: ro@foodcomthailand.com, www.winecellar-pattaya.com Wine Cellar Pattaya is a venture of FOOD COM (Thailand) Co., Ltd., www.foodcomthailand.com

L9

top tables

Vol. 02 No. 02 | Jan 16-31 2014

F&B Promotions Light Bite Wraps

New Lunch Concept

Mango Madness monthly dessert

at Oceans restaurant & Waves, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya

at Elements, The Okura Prestige Bangkok

at Elements Restaurant, Sheraton Pattaya Resort

Throughout the month of January, enjoy Light Bite Wraps at Oceans restaurant & Waves of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya where various fillings of chicken, tuna and salmon plus their complementary fruits and leaves will be offered with a vegetarian option of feta cheese and grilled seasonal vegetables.

Prices start at only 190++ baht (subject to 10% service charge and 7% tax).

Oceans is located on the beachfront of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya.The restaurant opens daily from 11:00-18:00 hrs.This promotion is also offered at the resort’s poolside Waves. Call to reserve at (038) 301 234 ext. 4272.

Elements restaurant of The Okura Prestige Bangkok introduces a new lunch concept starting 14 January. Newlyappointed Chef de Cuisine Henry Jordan has prepared an evolving set menu that provides the perfect blend and balance of nutrition, convenience and value.

The lunch menu features four dishes for each course plus flavoured table water and tea/coffee for a set price of 910++ baht.

Starter choices include salad, soup, Carpaccio and fish. Main course dishes always feature pasta, meat, fish and a vegetarian option, and the desserts include such items as ice cream, mousse, crème brûlée and fresh fruit.

Price is subject to 10% service charge and 7% government tax.

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

Elements restaurant’s awardwinning chef proudly presents the stunning presentation and delicious mango menus: Chocolate Mango Mirror, Mango Pudding, Sticky Rice Mango Strudel, and Mascarpone & Mango Terrine.

Enjoy the tasty promotion all day and every day at Elements Restaurant, Sheraton Pattaya Resort with the price of 320++ baht per dish.

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

Salmon Delighted Pizza at Havana Bar & Terrazzo

Seasoned Seafood Expertise

“Kung Hei Fat Choi” BBQ Buffet Dinner

at Kisso, The Westin Grande Sukhumvit Bangkok

at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya

Chef Shinsuke Yonekawa has located two premium winter-time delicacies – monk fish and oysters – as part of an à la carte menu of special dishes available from now until 28 February for lunch and dinner.

Dishes on Kisso’s seasonal menu featuring monk fish (ankoh) are priced from 220 to 1,200 baht and include: Monk Fish Liver Misobased Hot Pot, Sea Bream Sashimi Roll with Monk Fish Liver, Monk Fish Liver Sushi, and Grilled Monk Fish and Monk Fish Liver with Balsamic Teriyaki Sauce.

Oyster dishes are priced from 580 to 980 baht. The menu features Live Fresh Japanese Oyster with Original Vinegar, Breaded Fried Japanese Oyster with Homemade Tartar Sauce, Grilled Fried Japanese Oyster with Red Miso Sauce, Sautéed Rolled Oyster in Bacon with Yuzu Ponzu Butter Sauce, Oyster and Organic Tofu in Small Paper Pot. Kisso is open for lunch daily from 12 pm to 2:30 pm and dinner 6 pm to 10:30 pm on the 8th floor of The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Bangkok.

For more information, please call 02 207 8000, email kisso.bangkok@ westin.com, or visit www.kissobangkok.com and www.facebook.com/ kissobangkok

Celebrate Chinese Year of Green Horse in 2014 at Sheraton Pattaya Resort

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya invites you to join the magnificent Chinese banquet on the beach 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.

Celebrate Chinese New Year 2014 at the Mirage Beach of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya with “Kung Hei Fat Choi” BBQ Buffet Dinner on Friday, 31 January from 18:00 to 23:00 hrs. Price at only 1,999++ baht including soft drinks (exclusive of tax and service charge).

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

Celebrate Chinese New Year at Benihana, Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa 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.

Indulge in a Romantic Valentine's Dinner

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

For more information or reservations, please call 038 725 555.

Romantic Candlelight Dinner on Valentine’s Day at Hua Chang Heritage Hotel Bangkok

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

According to Chinese astrology theory using Yin-Yang five elements, 2014 is Year of Wooden Horse, wood referring to tree or green.

Sheraton Pattaya Resort’s associates prepared to give a warm Ni Hao (welcome) at Elements restaurant on this special celebration.

Come and start Year of Horse as we offer Chinese and BBQ dinner buffet with your family on Saturday, 1 February, from 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm.

Award-winning chef and his team proudly presents Chinese cuisine in this special occasion which includes assorted dim sum, fried shrimp golden bag, steamed bun, fish maw soup with crab meat, chilled chicken in Chinese wine, double-boiled capon broth with aromatic Chinese herbs, and many more. There is also an irresistible choice of desserts such as black sesame dumpling in hot ginger syrup, sweet mashed taro with gingko nuts and custard, chilled honey dew sago, live BBQ cooking station, and much more.

Grab yourself a fortune cookie and see what the future holds.

Join and celebrate Chinese New Year. Price 1,499++ baht per person and half price for children aged 4-12 years old.

Havana Bar & Terrazzo present the first signature pizza of 2014 “Salmon Delighted Pizza”.

Savour the taste of smoked salmon, red onion, and grilled asparagus topped with cream cheese, capers, dill, olive oil and lemon served on thin and crispy pizza base.

Salmon Delighted Pizza is priced at only 395 baht net and available throughout January. Receive 50% discount from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm daily.

Havana Bar & Terrazzo restaurants are well known for serving home-style Italian cuisines such as signature pizza, antipasti, salads, pastas and Thai dishes.

at Holiday Inn Pattaya Honouring the most romantic day of the year, Holiday Inn Pattaya invites guests to share the ultimate Valentine’s Day with someone special by choosing the perfect journey to suit your culinary desires and mood.

Begin the memorable night with sparkling wine under Pattaya Bay lights followed by an exclusive 5-course Valentine's set menu created by executive chef. Each course will be served with fine wine selected to complement the meal. A dessert sampler will be served individually. This special Valentine’s menu will be offered on February 14 at 4,999 baht per couple.

For reservations, please call 038 725 555.

Create an unexpected surprise for your loved one with romantic candlelight dinner at poolside bar, Hua Chang Heritage Hotel Bangkok. Indulge an unforgettable moment with an exquisite Thai set menu at 850++ baht per person inclusive of red rose and rose wine.

Tantalize your taste buds under the stars with a set dinner of deep-fried chicken roll with taro, crispy deep-fried golden basket, prawn satay, crab meat salad with green mango, Thai spicy shrimp paste dip, grilled prawn river, green curry with seafood and fresh tropical fruits come with homemade sticky rice &mango and there will be tea or coffee to end.

Let’s just fall in love… again at Hua Chang Heritage Hotel Bangkok, start from 6:00 to 10:30 pm.

For more information and reservations (strongly recommended), please contact: +66 (0)2 217 0721, +66 (0)2 217 0777 or e-mail info@ huachanghotel.com, or visit www.huachangheritagehotel.com

Enjoy the Taste of German Beer at Sapphire Bar,The Sukosol Bangkok Nothing refreshes more than German beer with its fabulous taste. Sapphire Bar at The Sukosol Bangkok is very pleased to present Weihenstephaner, premium German beer from the oldest existing brewery in the world. Experience the wonderfully rich yeasty taste of wheat beer for only 180++ baht. On top of that, don’t miss the special set of beer with delicious French fries for only 295++ baht.

For reservations or more information, please call +66 (0)2 247 0123 ext. 1811 or visit www.thesukosol. com or www.facebook.com/ sapphirebarbangkok.

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

L10

top tables

SUNDAY BRUNCH

THB 1,500.- free THB 2,200 .free flow soft drinks flow drinks & wines Vol. 02 No. 02 | Jan 16-31 2014

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

thefoodloverspattayatoday@msn.com

Pasta Pasta Traditional yet contemporary cuisine

It had been over a year since our last visit to Pasta Pasta and we were looking forward to re-visiting and reacquainting ourselves with their menu. Pasta Pasta is set in the grounds of Ambassador City and although not visible from the road it has been gaining an enviable reputation and has acquired quite a following not only from the local tourists but also from Bangkok weekenders who frequent Jomtien.

To get there, drive through the security gates and head down to the beach and there set before you you’ll find a new imaginative lifestyle development. The first (of many) restaurants and bars have already opened and the area is set to become the snazziest gastro-beachfront in the area. The setting here is spectacular, a glorious sandy beach and azure ocean presenting the perfect location for a gleaning swimming pool and two dazzling white, architect-designed restaurants. The appealing white pavilion complete with clock tower is the home to this charming Italian trattoria.

M

A huge terrace graces the forecourt of this appealing restaurant comfortably furnished with masses of seating for that languid lunch overlooking the sea or al fresco

IXOLOG

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MIXOLOGIST Nirun “Run” Juntausa SIGNATURE DRINK The Biggest Mai Tai in Pattaya BIO One of the most popular bartenders at Drift on level 16

dining under the stars. Inside the décor is elegant resonating with Italian ambiance, the colour scheme echoing their tri-coloured flag. The restaurant provides cosy red-velvet seating set against brick faced walls with a huge state-of-the-art woodburning pizza oven just out of sight.

Chef Claudio Viale is the master chef in charge of this kitchen. His culinary travels have taken him across many continents and his knowledge of Italian cuisine is huge.

After our introductions, chef Claudio suggested we enjoy a bottle of their promotional sparkling wine which at B1,200 proved a bubbly start to the evening. For starters chef Claudio had prepared his promotional dish of smoked salmon rocket salad. The peppery leaves had been picked that morning from the restaurant’s own hydroponic garden and the well-sourced soft, smoky

salmon complimented the flavours to produce a simple but delicious combination.

What else could we sample now but the eponymous pasta. There is an official statistic for pasta consumption in Italy, where it is believed that the average Italian eats something like 28 kilos of pasta per year.

That’s a lot of pasta, so no surprises that it is so close to every Italian’s heart.

Here at Pasta Pasta the extensive menu encompasses spaghetti, linguine, penne, egg fettuccine, cannelloni, pappardelle, ravioli, and lasagna served with a myriad of sauces.

Chef Claudio has created some memorable and innovative pasta dishes. Mick chose his pasta from “Chef’s Recommended” list, spaghetti all’aglio con gamberetti e bottarga di tonna (spaghetti sautéed with garlic and chili with prawns and sun dried tuna eggs). The piquancy of the roasted chili, the pungency of the tuna roe and subtleness of the prawns had all been adroitly sauteed in a fruity virgin olive oil. I chose another pasta dish from chef’s specials, namely the spaghetti with tiger prawns.

Secondi (main courses) run the gamut of Italian fare from fritto misto to mussels in tomato sauce to Italian pork sausages with sautéed mushrooms and baked potatoes.

Meat lovers are well served with beef tenderloin with green peppercorn sauce and rib eye grilled with garlic and rosemary, but chef had prepared two more promotion dishes showcasing his love of fish and his creative sauces which accompany them. The first to be tried was his signature pan fried sea bass served with a tri-colour of sauces, pesto, lemon and a spicy pepper. We loved this dish, each distinctive sauce complimenting the freshest of fish.

Next to be sampled was sword fish with mixed berry sauce (B.650). The coupling of the fruity sauce with the unique taste of the strong flavoured fish was an exciting marriage of taste sensations.

I haven’t even told you about the pizzas yet. Two sizes here, small (from B.130) and large (from B.250). Toppings cover the traditional options: Quattro stagioni, Margherita, prosciutto e funghi to the creative with mushrooms, prawns, sun dried tomatoes and smoked scamorza cheese and pizza with cream, sautéed spinach, pine nuts and heart of artichokes to the popular calzone (a folded stuffed pizza). Chef Claudio reiterated that all his products down to the smallest caper are imported from Italy. Attention to detail is critical and here the sum of the parts contributes to a bona fide Italian experience from the authentic ingredients to the hydroponic lettuces which are handpicked from just outside the wine cellar door.

You will not be able to resist the desserts at Pasta Pasta; we couldn’t.

Before calling it a night we just had to sample probably the most renowned pud in Europe, tiramisu.

Chef Claudio’s version is exquisite.

His personally made rendition, was fluffy and light with a dash of espresso and liqueur--oooh my goodness, it was heavenly.

Pasta Pasta On the grounds of Ambassador City at the beachfront end Open daily from 11.30 a.m. until 11 p.m.

Tel: (038) 255 501

The Biggest Mai Tai INGREDIENTS 3 oz Pampero rum 3 oz Captain Morgan rum 2 oz dry orange liqueur 2 oz orgeat syrup 3 oz lime juice 6 oz pineapple juice drops Angostura bitter GARNISH sliced pineapple orange zest mint sprig HOW TO MIX Add all the base liquid into the mixing bowl. Instantly stir well with

three scoops of ice. Flame a few orange twists and gently drop into the bowl. Place sliced pineapple on top. Sprinkle with orange zests.

GLASS TYPE Glass Bowl Available at Drift on Level 16, Hilton Pattaya

L11

automotive

Chevrolet Colorado Vol. 02 No. 02 | Jan 16-31 2014

“Gee-Emm's” New global power pickup General Motors’ 4x4 Chevy Colorado Duramax 2.8L diesel is the haul-anything-and-go-anywhere type of new generation heavy-duty vehicle.

Tons of power, torque but also saloon car apps, comfort and drivability. Painted in-eye popping “orange rock color”. What a truck!

In the USA, the birth country of Chevy Colorado, this 5.2-meter long, 2 ton vehicle is

by John Lindgren called a mid-size Editor-in-chief: truck. Up-size carsanook.com or down-size me? Here in the Thai Kingdom all the pickup trucks are just pickup trucks, or in Thai, “lott-ka-ba.” Midsize? I think they are already big enough.

Colo-rah-doh. Not a bad name for a pickup built by the 100-year-old General Motors’ Chevrolet brand.

Chevy is as American as apple pie (and baseball), but the new Colorado is very much a global vehicle having been designed and developed by GM teams in Thailand and Brazil and undergone millions of kilometers of road testing in eight countries. Voila! The final automotive product is now being assembled at the GM factories in Brazil and Thailand to be sold in more than 60 countries.

Design Chevy fans will instantly recognize the characteristic billet grille and the iconic Chevrolet gold textured, big bow-tie badge. This

truck design is rugged and powerful.

The side view reveals the bulging wheel arches. Big slanting headlights in the front and the massive vertical taillight cluster at the rear make a statement.

Our test vehicle is the top-of-the-line Colorado 4x4 LTZ1 with high ground clearance, standing tall ready to rock 'n roll come hell or high water.

Engine & Interior For the Thai market there are two heavy-duty diesels: the 2.5 and 2.8 liter units, both built at the new GM Rayong plant on the Kingdom's Eastern Seaboard. Our demo vehicle's 2.8 liter big block four-cylinder common-rail high-tech Duramax diesel pumps out 200 horsepower and 500 Nm torque and is mated to a six-speed stick-shift drive train. There's also a six-speed automatic available.

Manual transmission is fine with me, especially when driving upcountry and going off-road. More control and just perfect for the occasional wheel spin–if you want to show off! And when you need to haul stuff, there's enough power to tow 3.5 metric tons. Big stuff!

The interior: Colorado offers a large number of choices between cab-chassis and utility bodies; 2WD and 4WD; single-cab, extendedcab and dual-cab; four specification levels (DX, LX, LT and LTZ), including high- and low-stance configuration. Our sparkling orange rock-painted tester is the top specification manual transmission

extended cab LTZ 4WD with a 2.800 cc engine. Price: 871,000 baht.

Climb aboard. Cockpit and cabin is more SUV fit and finish than a tammada pickup. Cool, grey fabric upholstery and a black dashboard welcome the driver and passenger. In the driver's seat it's all functional and user friendly including the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel. The top-of-the-range Colorado LTZ1 is equipped with the upscale MyLink that features a seven-inch screen with an integrated satellite navigation system and a nine-speaker sound system, with DVD-movie capability and an USB/Auxiliary port. Safety equipment includes front passenger and side airbags, ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and cornering brake control, electronic stability program and traction control.

The drive: During the test drive in Bangkok city and on the motorways and highways plus some 4WD off-roading in the hills of Kamphaeng Phet province, GM's new global pick up proved a versatile and a tough vehicle.

Verdict: The Chevrolet Colorado is a damn good pickup truck with distinctive style offering power, comfort, space and with plenty of kit in the LTZ model.

Whether you like the old school stick shift or the new-age automatic transmission–a test drive is highly recommended. There are 150 GM/Chevrolet showrooms throughout the Kingdom. “Drove my Chevy to the levy...”

Chevrolet Colorado 2.8L X-Cab LTZ 4WD M/T Engine: 2.8 liter Duramax diesel Max power: 200 horsepower Torque: 500 Nm Top speed: 160 kph Fuel consumption: combined 15kpl Price: 871, 000 baht www.chevrolet.co.th

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

GM Outlook: “We expect to exceed our clients’ expectations in every way with our principle of Happy Team Happy Guests.”

— Rudolf Troestler

General Manager

Hilton Pattaya

page P4/24 >>

Volume 3

What's Inside: Property Politics, Protests and the Property Market

Issue 01 16-31 january 2014

City Garden Tropicana

page P2/22 Legal Advice Thailand Work Permit

page P6/26 Expat Money Corner The green shoots of recovery – how real are they?

page P6/26

Classifieds

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

page P7/27

Luxurious Tropical Lifestyle Experience your tropical lifestyle with the luxury and comforts of City Garden Tropicana. With state-of-the-art facilities and amenities, convenience is in the palm of your hand. Surrounded by elegant designs and beautiful tropical landscaping, City Garden Tropicana is guaranteed to be a desirable residence for many.

Developed by Global Top Group, City Garden Tropicana is an ideological continuation of the project City Garden Pattaya and offers the same high standards of construction and design. City Garden Tropicana is located in a quiet corner of North Pattaya, a short walk from the shops and massage parlors and with easy access to the beaches of Long Beach and Wongamat Beach.

Located at Naklua Road Soi 16/1, City Garden Tropicana is set in a total land area of 2 rai (3,200 sqm) with 188 units of varying types

including studio, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom units. The eight-storey low-rise project features chic design lobby, two swimming pools, one reflective pool, fitness center, sauna and steam room, playground, and roof terrace with barbecue area. Other services include 24-hour video surveillance system and free Wi-Fi internet.

For more information on this project, phone 038 225 627, 038 225 628, email info@citygardentropicana.com, or visit www. citygardentropicana.com.

P2 / 22

Volume 3

Issue 01

16-31 january 2014

Property

Politics, Protests and the Property Market Thailand has endured so much over the past ten years or so. We have made it through the tsunami, bird flu, red shirts rioting in downtown Bangkok, yellow shirts shutting down Suvarnabhumi Airport, and severe flooding that displaced more than 5 million people.

Personally, I am always pretty upbeat and positive about Thailand and its future, but some high-ranking members of the real estate industry are starting to show concern over the effect of the long-term protests threatening to paralyse Bangkok.

Is it possible that real estate demand is being affected by the prolonged political situation that has divided Thailand and its citizens like no other time in its history?

Athip Pichanon, president of the Thailand Home Builder Association, stated two months ago that the current political climate would dampen demand and interest for home buyers. As a result, he revised downward his growth forecast for the Thai real estate market this year from 10 percent to just 5 percent.

That was two months ago and, as we all know very well, an awful lot has happened in these past 60 days of government protests.

Thamrong Panyasakulwong, president of the Thailand Condominium Association, voiced concern that the condominium market is being affected by politics and protests; the condo sector has been particularly negative for the year-end sales market. Thamrong

pointed out that the property market could not help but be affected as the growing lack of consumer confidence dampens demand in the market.

This is particularly disappointing as condominiums have experienced very healthy growth over the past six to 12 months, with 705,000 new units having come onto the market, which was a record high.

As if the political protests were not enough, we also have witnessed Thailand’s declining export figures, rising household debt which left Thais with much less disposable income, and declining consumption and investment in general.

With Thailand’s economic growth having softened throughout 2013, these long-standing political tensions could not have come at a worse time, further dampening, as they do, the economic outlook into 2014.

Jones Lang LaSalle last week reflected, “While most economists expect the country’s GDP in 2013 to grow by less than 4 percent and are now revising 2014 forecasts downward, Bangkok’s property market made it through the year relatively unscathed, yet it is expected to feel the impact in 2014”.

by Clayton Wade Managing Director

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

Suphin Mechuchep, managing director of the professional services firm, Jones Lang LaSalle Thailand, said, “Strong fundamentals helped save the Bangkok property market in 2013, but at this point, it remains hard to predict where the market is heading in 2014. The major concern by most parties is on the current political turmoil. We have already seen property developers, owners, investors and occupiers becoming more cautious, with some of them adopting a wait-and-see approach.

The fact that some property developers and owners have become

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

reluctant to invest in marketing and promotional campaigns exemplifies this trend.”

Following the last five consecutive months of decline in the sentiment index--to 46.9, Thailand’s private sector expects investments to decline, a trend expected to continue for at least three months.

So with the bleak Thai economy, what impact would a prolonged shutdown of the capital have on the nation’s business and its property markets?

The international media have been quick to voice their opinions, viewing the protests and the shutdown as potentially catastrophic.

We are seeing mixed reaction in the Thai press. Some foresee the end of the Magic Kingdom, others think this is just another calamity that the country will move beyond in six months or less--just like it has with all the other crises of the past ten years or so.

On the positive side, the stock exchange (SET) and major shopping centers reported no intention to close down in the face of continued protests and the shutdown.

On the not-so-positive side, the Energy Ministry has advised commercial traders to reserve enough oil and gas in preparation for

bringing in the first 53 General Motors executives for the start-up phase of Thailand’s General Motors manufacturing facility and had a three-year exclusive with the company. Following that experience, he placed most of the start-up executives for the Eastern Seaboard’s BMW manufacturing facility.

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

The American-born entrepreneur is known

a prolonged shutdown, adding the government has warned that petrol stations may also be affected.

Since 1932 there have been 18 coups d’état here, but the Thai economy has barely been affected; it has continued to develop and prosper throughout all such government upheavals.

In many of his lectures and talks throughout the region, Dr. Mark Mobius, described as a pre-eminent emerging-market guru, opines, “The local Thai economy and its politics usually act as if they’re barely acquainted.”

That often seems to be the case in the Magic Kingdom. I mean, it appears that nothing affects or brings down the spirit of the Thai people, even though their own government has been an absolute circus for years.

Are we going to emerge from the Bangkok shutdown even stronger than before?

Will this be but a mere hiccup in the Thai real estate market’s incredible decades-long growth?

Long term, things could not look better, so let’s all hope that this current political turmoil will end soon so that Thailand can get back on track with the real estate industry doing great business…as usual!

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

P4 / 24

Volume 3

Issue 01

16-31 january 2014

GM Outlook

Hilton Pattaya Under New Management

Rudolf Troestler recently took the helm

The new general manager at the five-star Hilton Pattaya has been in post barely three months. But confident Rudolf Troestler, Austrian by birth, knows a thing or two about the hospitality business and has 23 years experience working his way up from being a waiter to food and beverage operations, financial control and all managerial aspects in quality hotels throughout the world. Prior to his current post he was general manager at Hilton Colombo in Sri Lanka.

Photo MIKE PEREZ

“

by Barry Kenyon

i

t’s a privilege taking up my position in the vibrant city of Pattaya,” Rudolf said, “and I am working with other colleagues to cement Hilton Pattaya as one of Asia’s top hotels for both business and leisure travellers.” Hilton Worldwide manages eight other properties in Thailand and will open Waldorf Astoria Bangkok next year.

Top hotels usually have a Wow factor or two, but Hilton Pattaya surely has a long list to choose.

Trip Advisor, the best-known consumer guide to Pattaya on the internet, has hundreds of reports from clients who have stayed at Hilton Pattaya. The overwhelming majority are in the excellent or very good categories.

So what impresses guests the most?

Certainly the location comes first. Unique by design, the hotel rises 34 levels above

CentralFestival Pattaya Beach which is Southeast Asia’s largest beachfront shopping complex.

There are spectacular views over Pattaya Bay and the Gulf of Thailand, and all 302 rooms and suites feature 180 degrees of unobstructed ocean views with private balconies. Pattaya beach is just a stone’s throw away and many of the resort’s entertainment, dining and recreational features are nearby.

Many guests point to the hotel’s lobby area as an initial Wow feature with its spaciousness and attentive service with decor and a colour scheme reminiscent of the sea and beaches. Unlike other hotels, the lobby is situated on the 16th floor and is accessible only by elevator. After a 20 second or so journey, guests and visitors step out into a remarkable introduction to Pattaya Hilton excellence.

Another frequently mentioned Wow factor is the quality of the

restaurants. Particular mention can be made of Edge, which offers a range of international and Asian favourites in an environment which is casual by day and stylish by night. The open show kitchen allows guests naturally to interact with the cooks. Flare, by contrast, has a magnificent wall of exquisite wines providing a unique and distinguished setting which combines the traditional Thai tastes with fine ingredients from around the world.

Rudolf appreciates that Pattaya is still evolving in its dynamic history. “It’s true that our guests and repeat customers are truly cosmopolitan with more coming from Asia, including China and Japan, and there is now a good balance between leisure and business travellers,” he says. “Pattaya is increasingly a sophisticated resort, and its well-known night life is just one element in the top-class facilities here.” Indeed, it can be shown

that Pattaya’s accommodation, shopping and entertainment options can rival Bangkok or any other Asian city.

As a family man, Rudolf is interested in the city’s infrastructure to provide education and health care.

“More families are coming here, not only as tourists but as longstaying residents for work or retirement. That’s why it is so important for the resort to have top-class hospitals and schools to cater for the diverse needs of family living, both Thais and foreigners.”

A strong trend over recent years has been the rise of the corporate market. “We are fortunate that Hilton Pattaya has two floors of facilities incorporating a business centre, secretarial services, state-of-the-art technology for sound and vision, and stylish board rooms and meeting rooms. The 635-square meter ballroom is a much sought-

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Volume 3

Issue 01

16-31 january 2014

GM Outlook after exhibition area which recently housed the January 2014 Pattaya Property Exhibition which attracted local and international buyers to all the major property companies in the area.”

Focusing on the hospitality industry as a whole, Rudolf believes that the policy in five-star hotels must be to exceed customer expectations as a matter of course. “But we also must be mindful to develop talent amongst the team members to prepare them for future leadership. That’s why working at Hilton Pattaya is such a useful tool in this context as it can help to identify the managers of tomorrow.” In fact the essence of the business philosophy here is “Happy Team, Happy Guests.”

Another of Rudolf’s priorities is to develop the community involvement

We expect to exceed our clients’ expectations in every way with our principle of Happy Team Happy Guests Rudolf Troestler

General Manager, Hilton Pattaya

programme which is already off to a flying start. Hilton Pattaya participates in the Youth Career Development Program, in partnership with UNICEF, which provides a 20week hospitality training programme for selected students to equip them with the skills needed in food and beverage, kitchen, housekeeping and engineering.

Hilton Pattaya also joins in the Hilton Worldwide’s annual Global Week of Service, with 120 volunteers from the hotel supporting underprivileged children in Pattaya through the Father Ray Foundation, The Redemptorist Foundation for People with Disabilities and the Child Protection and Development Centre. The volunteers have wide roles beyond organizing games and gifts. These include a DIY bakery, a juggling showcase and a Day at the Hilton front desk to name but three.

The project allows team members at Hilton Pattaya to share their skills with children in need and provide them with tips they can apply to their daily lives.

Under Rudolf’s leadership, Hilton Pattaya will not only be a centre of excellence for the increasingly sophisticated Thai and international travelling public, but a model for community service which is embedded in Hilton Worldwide’s culture. Sounds like a winning combination.

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Volume 3

Issue 01

16-31 january 2014

Legal & Expat Money

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS THAILAND WORK PERMIT by: Magna Carta Law Office What is the importance of obtaining a work permit?

If you are a foreigner intending to work in Thailand, you are subject to the Alien Employment Act, which requires you to have a work permit issued by the Ministry of Labour except for an approved temporary and urgent work for a period not exceeding 15 days. In accordance with the format and procedures prescribed under the Ministerial Regulations, a work permit defines the locality you are permitted to work, length of time permitted to work, category or nature of work and the employer for whom you will be working. Failure to comply with Thailand’s employment regulations shall be punishable by fines and/or imprisonment.

What are the typical jobs in Thailand that are open to foreigners?

Any work may be performed by foreigners provided that it is a job that will not in any way compromise national security or career opportunities of Thai people, and if the demand for foreign labour is necessary for national development. Here are some of the jobs that foreigners are likely to perform: -Teaching English and Translation -Computer and Information Technology -Engineering -Writing and Editorial -Sales Professionals -Hotel Management and Culinary -Music and Entertainment -Specialized Skills -Opening Your Own Business What type of visa I must secure prior to work permit application?

Any foreigner who intends to work in Thailand must have a residence in Thailand or must be authorized to enter Thailand temporarily in accordance with the Immigration Law. The first step in the work permit application process is to obtain the correct visa. In most cases, the applicant will be required to apply for a Non-Immigrant Type “B” Visa which can be obtained in your home country or any neighbouring countries of Thailand. This allows the applicant to stay in Thailand for the initial 90 days which shall give ample time for the application of a work permit to take place.

What are the important points to consider in order to be granted a work permit?

-It is important to consider the registered capital of the company that you will be working for. One foreigner can be hired by a company for every 2,000,000 baht registered paid-up capital, but shall

only be allowed up to a maximum of 10 work permits per company. However, certain considerations apply in certain situations.

-There are compulsory requirements for a minimum number of Thai employees per foreign employee depending on the status of the company. The standard ratio is 4 Thai employees to 1 foreign employee.

-Tax and Social Security funds are compulsory paid by every company. Companies that are not complying with the laws of Business Development and Revenue Department are not eligible to apply for a work permit for you.

Who has the right to keep the work permit booklet, the employer or the employee?

You, as the work permit recipient, have the right to keep your work permit, but it shall be your responsibility to make it available at all times, especially during working hours. However, for security purposes, this can also be kept at your workplace so as to be made available any time a competent official or registrar demands proof of employment authorization.

Should your employer demand to secure your permit in the company premises, you may request its release whenever needed.

What is the standard validity of a work permit?

A work permit is issued for a period of one-year and may be renewed every year thereafter which shall then be valid only as long as your visa allows you to remain in Thailand. If the duration of employment of a foreigner is less than one year, a work permit will be granted for not longer than the period requested.

Can I work anywhere in Thailand other than the location specified in my work permit, considering that the job is in the same field I am allowed to perform?

Any intention to change or increase the category of work, employer, working locality or conditions shall be effective only upon the approval of the registrar in accordance with the rules and procedures prescribed under the Ministerial Regulations.

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

The green shoots of recovery – how real are they?

Whilst nobody could say we are clear of problems, the data and indicators are pointing to a marked improvement in most of the larger western economies, especially the US and UK. Having got the US budget deadlock out of the way, at least for the time being, the green shoots are looking more sustainable.

Germany has ridden out the storm well; data from the US should continue to improve, and the UK is set to grow by up to 2.4 percent this year. This is an altogether better picture than we’ve been used to over the last 5 or 6 years.

The pundits are polarised on many economic issues but largely speak with one voice when it comes to some of the macro (national) economies and sectors, going forward; the major indices of the UK, US, Japan, Europe and the healthcare/biotech are all tipped for upward movement. Nearly all perceived wisdom is ‘bullish’ about the prospects for investors across these markets and the healthcare sector.

Japan is leading the way as the favourite of the western economies amongst commentators, with its declining currency helping exports and a return to an inflationary cycle, rather than the decades of deflation it has suffered.

America’s path back to normality is gaining pace, although whilst the current level of $75 billion stimulus is still being pumped into the economy every month, normal is not where we are as yet.

Nonetheless, corporate America is doing well and the jobless rate is under 7 percent. Still a way to go but there is definite improvement that looks increasingly sustainable.

The UK’s ‘austerity’ path doggedly stuck to by Chancellor George Osborne has turned things around markedly, at a price for UK citizens. Again though, we can see real improvement in some of the fundamental pointers in the economy, and it is said that by 2030, the UK could be the largest economy in Europe because of its immigration policy, amongst other factors, as apposed to Germany, the current number one, with its declining population. Growth predicted of up to 2.4 percent this year is a far cry from either recession or the minimal growth of recent years.

Europe’s problems have been exhaustively covered in the last few years. The issues are well known, yet Europe, including the UK, is still the largest trading block on the planet. With banking union on the horizon, the Purchasing Managers Index several notches better, and other economic indicators looking more favourable than they’ve done for years, the outlook is set for a patchy but genuine recovery.

The healthcare/biotech industry is likely to get a boon from new drugs available this year. Fund manager Samuel Isaly is very optimistic about 2014. He says he expects multiple new blockbuster drugs to come to market this year, each with the potential for annual sales of more than $5 billion and all with their origins in biotech.

“2014 is the year of the biotech blockbuster drug,” he says. “These are not hopes and prayers for profits in 10 years; we are talking regulatory approval and sales this year.”

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

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

Classified

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THB p/m. 6 year lease. Sale Price: Portable mobility scooters, 3,950,000 THB includes everything latest models. Full service from please call 085-910-5124 Email to Thailand’s mobility scooter bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com specialist. Call 081 875 0860 or 02 A Leading English Language 964 8405-07, www.ecobrand.net, Magazine for sale, 2 Million info@ecobrand.net for prices and baht.Call 089 607 9850 for more brochures. Contact us now for details your free test ride at your home! (ptmpt-bo00)For Sale or Lease.

Business 23 Nice Two Room Apartments Opportunities (ptmbo-w0913)Shop House located in 3 buildings on a one Jomtien Beach Soi 4, 150m to the rai land parcel in a very central beach. Newly renovated 8 units, 6 location south Pattaya. Within 5 levels, full rented. New furniture. min walking distance to walking All with kitchen, bathroom, balcony, street,however still a quiet and central A/C, flat TV, microwave. secure area. For more info contact Cable TV, Wi-Fi, security cameras, 081 9099098, No agents please electronic card entrance, wash BEACHFRONT RESTAURANT machine. 60sq meter penthouse for – Na JomtienIn a great beachfront the owner, 2 levels, Jacuzzi, 50” location this popular restaurant 3D flat TV, wash machine. Price with living accommodation 7.9 mil baht. Owner finance up to above is offered for sale with 5.mil. Owner 0808218326 E-mail 3 years remaining on the lease.

Seating for more than 20 with bar, wrm215@aol.com Fantastic Investment with refrigerators, cooler, commercial Great Rental Return! 12 Million kitchen, 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms Baht only for Five (5) spacious and great sea views. Monthly 160 square meter 3 bedroom 3 rent is just 16,000 Bt. For Sale bathroom multiplex houses on 37 Leasehold: 860,000 baht.

Tarang Wah (148 square meters) Website Ref: BUSS031. Tel: 085 of land each. That is only 2.4 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayaMillion Baht per house! All five jomtien-property.com. www.

(5) houses are currently rented pattaya-jomtien-property.com and bringing in 80,000 baht per SHOPHOUSE IN BUSY ‘5month total. For appointment and STAR’ LOCATION - Single four private viewing, call the Premier storey building in the busiest foot Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. traffic location in Jomtien and near at (038) 231-931 and 081-634- to several hotels and guesthouses.

2915 or by Email: premier@ Ground floor presently used as loxinfo.co.th or visit our website internet and travel office with 3 at www.premierinternational.com rooms and small office above. Can (PR6164) convert to bar, massage or retail Grand Estate Home or Resort premises. For Sale Leasehold: with Restaurant for Sale with Only 350,000 Bt including Great Business Opportunity! computers and furniture, monthly 8 Guest Suites all with en suite rent of 25,000 Bt plus key money.

Bathrooms! Americana Antiques Website Ref: BUSS031. Tel: 085 in Every Guest Suite! Over 2 Rai 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayaof Beautiful Gardens (847 TLW) jomtien-property.com. www.

Absolutely Gorgeous Swimming pattaya-jomtien-property.com Pool! 1950’s Rock n Roll era SHOPHOUSE WITH ROOMS Siam Country Club Roadside IN BUSY ‘5-STAR’ LOCATION Restaurant. For appointment and - Single three storey building in private viewing, call the Premier the busiest foot traffic location Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. in Jomtien, presently a Thai barat (038) 231-931 and 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ restaurant with 4 rooms above, easy loxinfo.co.th or visit our website to convert to office, massage or at www.premierinternational.com retail premises. For sale leasehold: 700,000 Bt, monthly rent of 20,000 (PR5796) Restaurant for Sale in Prime Bt and no key money. Website Location Jomtien(Thappraya Ref: BUSS026. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Road) rent 25K THB p/m. 3+3 Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienyear lease. Sale Price: 1,690,000 property.com. www.pattayaT H B i n c l u d e s e v e r y t h i n g jomtien-property.com furniture, fixtures stock-good GUESTHOUSE & BAR cash flow please 085-910-5124 Ideally located profitable 10 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@ room guesthouse and bar.

Located in a busy Soi in Central gmail.com Sky View Penthouse Restaurant Jomtien and close to the beach for Sale/Lease: Stunning views of is this 3 unit building with the Pattaya and Jomtien Bay Decorated ground floor running as a bar in Vietnamese and French Style. with pool table, music system 500 sqm Rent 45k THB p/m. and large flat screen TV. There is SALE PRICE: 4,950,000 THB ample room to install a kitchen includes everything please to offer breakfasts and food to call 085-910-5124 Email to the guests and customers, thus bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com increasing the profits further. The Guest House/Coffee Shop Soi upper floors contain 10 renovated Buakhao: 6 rooms Leasehold: and fully furnished guest rooms, 3+3 Rent: 30,000 Baht/Month. a store room and maids room. An 19% cash return annually SALE established business. For Sale PRICE: 2,100,000 THB please Leasehold: 3.3m Bt, monthly call 085-910-5124 Email to rent 30,000 Bt. Website Ref: bobbybrooksproperty@gmail. BUSS019. Tel: 085 129 5657. com Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienGuest House/Coffee Shop Soi property.com. www.pattayaBuakhao: 6 rooms Leasehold: jomtien-property.com 3+3 Rent: 30,000 Baht/Month.

Services Provided 19% cash return annually SALE (ptmsp-k1213)New Storages & PRICE: 2,100,000 THB please Warehouses & Lockers for Rent. call 085-910-5124 Email to Short/long Term okay, Located in bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com South Pattaya.Start from 600Bt/ Guest House/Pub Dongtan Month!! Call 081.107.1717 www.

Beach: 4 rooms Leasehold: 3+3 WonderStorages.com Rent: 23,000 Baht/Month. Fully Magna Carta Law Office can occupied SALE PRICE: 1,499,000 assist you in securing loans THB please call 085-910-5124 from a minimum 700,000 up Email to bobbybrooksproperty@ to a maximum of 50 Million gmail.com Baht through various financial

16 - 31 January 2014

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Articles for Sale

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

Home Maid Service &Design.

Cleaning Services, Built-in Furniture 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 your condo at a very reasonable price with very good standard of work.

Ring 087 139 1539 for estimates Eng, 087 150 4845 Thai If You are Having a Problem with Your Computer either software orhardware,please phone 0868202577 or 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 someprintedmatters 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 telno. 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.: 087-329-0300, Office/Fax: 038-370-861 Web: www.aromdeeapartments.com Email: aromdeeapartment@ hotmail.com

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 charges. +66 0808218326 E-mail wrm215@aol.com

Houses for Sale

(ptmhfs-n1213)3 Bedroom House, Village Chalita-2.

Detached, 2 bathrooms, living room, kitchen, carport, garden, 60 wah (240 sqm), security. New houses 2.79Mb. This resale 2.4Mb (financing possible). 085 7955 383

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16 - 31 January 2014

Houses for Sale

Bel-Air Villas Bang Saray From 3,950,000 THB. 0815760035 www.countrypropertyservices.net (ptmhfs-c0913)Jomtien Palace Pool Villa. 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-o1013)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 House For Sale – East Pattaya - An ideal budget single storey semi-detached 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, covered patio terrace, unfurnished except for one bedroom. The owner has the adjoining house for sale which can be purchased together to make a wonderful and spacious 3 bedroom property. Price: 1.5m Bt each.

Ref Code: HSES121. Tel. 085 129 5657 Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com www. pattaya-jomtien-property.com 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 bathrooms, European kitchen, living room,

Classified

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@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-property.com House For Sale – Ban Amphur - Very well renovated and nicely furnished single storey house near Phoenix Road offering 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms including a huge one as master bathroom , European kitchen, open plan lounge/dining area and car parking. A 5 minute drive to Sukhumvit Road and Ban Amphur Beach, 12 minutes to Tesco Lotus and Jomtien. Bargain buy family home. Price: 1.6m Bt. Website Ref: HSES027. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-property.com Charming Tropical Bangsarey Home! Selling Price 12.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 160 Sqm/183 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

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

G re a t P h o e n i x L a k e s i d e 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 Luxury Resort 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 081-6342915 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 081634-2915 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 o n 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 081634-2915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com.

(PR6083) Charming Detached House with swimming pool and lovely gardens in Wongamat Location!

Selling Price 25 Million Baht, Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathrooms, 300 TLW/300 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081634-2915 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 081634-2915 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 081634-2915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com.

(PR4176) Gorgeous Lake View 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 081634-2915 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) 231931 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 081634-2915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR4854) Great Private Estate Home!

Selling Price 14.9 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 375 Sqm/500 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081634-2915 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 081634-2915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (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. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (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 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com JOMTIEN PALACE ESTATESModern style 6 bedrooms home, 3 bath, and 3 beds upstairs and downstairs. Living Area 280 SQM 10.9 million (Co name) please call 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com View Talay Villas with Private Swimming Pool, Jomtien 1 bed 1 bath 4.49 mil (thai name) Freehold.

Please call 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com

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. (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

Houses for Sale

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 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com 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 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com Nirvana Pool Villas 1 - 3 Bed 3 Bath House with Private Pool/ Fully Furnished/Enclosed Garage 364 SQM. Sale Price: 5.9 Million THB co. name (Freehold) please call 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com Baan Suay Mai Ngam- Newer 3 Bed 4 Bath House/ fully furnished/ private pool/ owner must sell 3.25 Million Thai name. (Freehold) please call 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com View Talay Villa with Private Swimming Pool, Jomtien 2 bed 2 bath 8.9 million (co name) Freehold. Please call 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@ gmail.com

Houses for Rent

Single-detached house in Wat Nong Ket Noi. 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 2 aircon/fan. Fully furnished. 15,000 baht per month for one-year contract and up.

2-storey with garden. Call 038 425 532. (ptmhfr-c0913)Jomtien Palace Pool Villa. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, European kitchen.

New pool with Jacuzzi. Rent short or long term, available after 24th 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).

JOMTIEN PALACE HOME- 3 Bdrm 3 Baths modern 140 SQM Fully furnished with private Jacuzzi, towels, and linens. 30,000 per month for (1 year lease) please call 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com 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 bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com House For Rent - Stunning detached single storey property in this exclusive development, just a 5 minutes drive to Jomtien Beach. The property offers 2 bedrooms, 2 en-suite bathrooms, European kitchen, open plan lounge, living area 120 sqm ,land area 240 sqm, covered sun terrace, covered parking, communal pool, gym, restaurant, tennis court, park and childrens play area, key card entry, 24/7 security and just 5 minutes from Tesco and downtown Pattaya. Minimum rental period of 6 months applies.

Rent: 30,000 Bt 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@ pattaya-jomtien-property.com. www.pattaya-jomtien-property.com Fantastic Home in Great Developement! Rental Price 11 0 , 0 0 0 B a h t / M o n t h , 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 440 Sqm/300 TLW. For appointment

Classified

and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081634-2915 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 081634-2915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (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. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5679) Resort Living just 50 meters from the Beach in Jomtien!

Rental Price 75,000 Baht / Month, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/25 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081634-2915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR2977) Wonderful Beachside Homes!

Rental Price 80,000-110,000 Baht/Month, 3-5 Bedrooms/4-5 Bathrooms, 188-280 Sqm./75100 TLW For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PRH133) Nice Rental Home in Phoenix Golf Course Area! Rental Price 95,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/600 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5230) Fantastic Home in the Mabprachan Lake Area! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 5 Bedrooms/3+1 Bathrooms, 360 Sqm/400 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081634-2915 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 081634-2915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR6017)

Pool Villas for Sale

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: 4.99m Bt.Website Ref: PLVS142. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Pool Villa For Sale – East Pattaya - A spacious and stylishly furnished throughout, executive style pool villa in one of the most popular developments in East Pattaya offering 3 en-suite 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.

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 furnished throughout, executive style pool villa in one of the most popular developments in East Pattaya offering 3 en-suite 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.

Price: 6.95m Bt. Website Ref: PLVS190. Tel: 085 129 5657.

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

16 - 31 January 2014

Pool Villa For Sale Bang Saray New pool villa built and electrical wired to European standards with double block walls, high quality white UPVC windows and doors. This exclusive partially furnished 180 sqm property offers 2 en-suite bedrooms with built-in furniture and walk-in wardrobes, 2 luxurious bathrooms with intimate lighting, large fully fitted white European kitchen with center island and breakfast bar, spacious open plan living room, store room, 9m x 4m private pool, covered pool side terrace, koi carp pond, covered parking, underground water tank, remote control garage gates and ocated in a very popular expat area just 5 minutes from the beautiful un-spoilt Bang Saray Beach. Price: 6.5m Bt. Website Ref: PLVS193. Tel: 085 129 5657.

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

Pool Villas for Rent

Pool Villa For Rent – Jomtien - Located in this exclusive new development near to the new Jomtien 2nd Road this modern 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.

Rent: 55,000Bt for 6 month lease or 45,000 Bt 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 Jomtiens most popular and exclusive developments. The property offers 3 en-suite 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

ZZ/29 9

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. Rent; 70,000 Bt for 6 month, 65,000 Bt for 1 year contract. Website Ref: PLVR298. Tel: 085 129 5657.

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

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 Bt. Ref Code: CDOS745. Tel. 085 129 5657 Email: lam@pattayajomtien-property.com www. pattaya-jomtien-property.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 Pattayas 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, Wifi 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@ pattaya-jomtien-property.com. www.pattaya-jomtien-property. com

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Condos for Rent

(ptmcfr-p0713)Jomtien Soi 8 Gallery 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: 082-3400064 Email: peterbarker10@ yahoo.com For Rent in Soi 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 PratamnakJomtien.42 sqmstudio 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 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@ gmail.com 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-jomtien-property.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@pattayajomtien-property.com. www. pattaya-jomtien-property.com

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.

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

The Gallery - Very popular new modern low rise buildings ideally located in Central Jomtien, just 150m from the new Night Plaza and the beach. This high floor sea view studio, 29.5 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 : 1.89m Bt in foreign name. Website Ref: CDOS710.

Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property.com. www.pattaya-jomtien-property. com Park Lane Resort - REDUCED: High floor 36 sqm unit offers some sea views in this new low rise resort style building just 800m from Jomtien Beach, offering 1 bedroom, luxurious bathroom, European kitchen, stylishly furnished, huge 1600m lagoon style pool, 24/7 security.

For Sale : 1.57m Bt in foreign name. Website Ref: CDOS225.

Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property.com. www.pattaya-jomtien-property. 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 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR5414) Wo n d e r f u l l y D e s i g n e d Luxury Apartment! Selling Price 10.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 134 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-6342915 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 081-6342915 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 081-6342915 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 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR5786)

Bathroom, Total Size 52 Sqm (co. name) Sale Price: 2,995,000 THB++ Please call 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@ gmail.com 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 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com Jomtien Condotel – 81 sq meter 1 Bedroom 1 bathroom 3.59 million THB (Foreign Name) please call 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@gmail.com View Talay 2B - 10th floor Jomtien Seaview 1 Bedroom 1 Bath 76 (Sqm): 2.890.000 THB. (Thai Name) please call 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@ gmail.com

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

Condos for Sale

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 081-6342915 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 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR5075) Nicely Decorated Apartment i n To w n a t N o r t h s h o re !

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 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR4990) Great Sea Views and Stunning Décor in North Pattaya! Selling Price 7.474 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 74 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-6342915 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 081-6342915 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 081-6342915 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 081-6342915 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 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@ gmail.com 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 085-910-5124 Email to bobbybrooksproperty@ gmail.com Sunset Boulevard Residence I, Corner Unit 1 Bedroom-1

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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Classified

16 - 31 January 2014



10 ZZ/30

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

Condos for Rent

Very Impressive Sea View Apartment!! Rental Price i s 40, 00 0 B ah t / Mo n t h , 1 Bedrooms/1 Bathrooms, 64 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-6342915 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 081-6342915 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 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR4262) Modern Designed Beachfront

Apartment! Rental Price i s 4 8 ,0 0 0 B a h t / M o n t h , 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 101 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-6342915 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 081-6342915 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 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PR4187)

Land for Sale

(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 P r a t a m n a k B e a c h f ro n t !

Selling Price is 45 Million 203 Tarang Wah For appointment

Deadline Issue February 1-15

Please forward your classifieds by 5:00 PM on January 23

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

Classified

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 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 081-6342915 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 081-6342915 or by Email: premier@ loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational. com (PLD0928)

Investment Property

East Pattaya - Two storey semi-detached houses 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, clubhouse, communal pool and 24/7 security. Outstanding value for such large family homes. The seller has in total six of these rental properties, all with tenants in place, that are rented for between 17,000 Bt and 20,000 Bt per month on medium to long term leases bringing in a return of 8%. They can be purchased individually from 1.99m Bt to 2.2m Bt each or all six houses together for 11.9m Bt. Only for sale because of the owners continued ill health problems.

Website Ref: HSES071. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property.com. www.pattaya-jomtien-property. com

Job Vacancies

Experienced Sales Person / Customer Service Wanted. We are looking for a female who is interested to work in a property industry. Requirements: Good written and spoken English / Chinese / Russian. Must be customer service-oriented. Must be sales driven, enthusiastic and hardworking. Send CV/Resume to john@citygardenpattaya. com or call 0903855595.

Assistant to Condominium Manager wanted for a condominium located on Jomtien Beach. We are looking for a male/female who is interested in working with property management. Responsibilities include: The Assistant Building Manager works directly under the Building Manager, and oversees building and swimming pool maintenance, utilities and communications infrastructure, repairs and upgrades, and supervises the

staff. Coordinates building, pool and grounds maintenance and repairs with maintenance staff. Provides co-owners with updates of electrical, water and other service outages, fire drills and scheduled shutdowns.

Oversees building security. Issue invoices and collects payments from co-owners for maintenance fee, water charges etc. Oversee daily accounting to be presented to the Building Manager each month. Coordinates fire drills and emergency equipment maintenance. Requirements: Good written and spoken English, independent, well organize, good computer and accounting skills. CV with photo and salary requirement to allott25@hotmail.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 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, property inspections of the common areas, building’s accounting and more. Requirements: Good written and spoken English, independent, well organize, good computer and accountant skills. Experience is a plus.

Salary according to skills.

CV with photo to allott25@ hotmail.com Urgent! Experienced Waitress Wanted for 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 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 2005 NISSAN TEANA 230JMDiamond Black/ Cream Leather interior, all options, new paint, serviced by Nissan, low miles, 499,000 call 0841580785 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 T oyota F O R T U N E R , 3.0 TURBO DIESEL, A utomatic – To y o t a 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. Only 670,000 baht for quick sale (in foreign name). Call Alan (owner): 087139-1570 (English)

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Tips & Advice

What Our

Readers Say

The best and the worst in 2013 We asked our readers what in their opinion was the best or the worst thing about Pattaya last year.

Here’s a selection of their replies.

The Best The widening of Beach Road has been a real blessing. Now that cars have been stopped from double parking, the traffic flows much more freely.

(Sam Stevens) Some really great restaurants opened up in 2013.

The choice of really good eating places in the resort is now second to none in Thailand. (Jules G) The best thing was in December when the baht fell a long way. As a British tourist I need as many baht to the pound as I can find. (Ken Lawson) I was very impressed by Chic Republic and Decco, two great interior decor stores which were purpose built on Sukhumvit Road. The quality and range of these goods is now up to European standards. (Elsie Hetherington) I would choose the opening of Pattaya City Hospital on Soi Buakhao. I can buy my medication there for a fraction of the cost in other establishments.

I also like the advent of the tourist court in Jomtien.

(PL) The City Hall fireworks at Christmas were certainly the best ever. I have been impressed by the way City Hall has successfully marketed Pattaya over the past

Your Visa

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

Fax: 66 38 710 163

Sponsored by

www.visacentergroup.com

www.visa2britain.com

Confusing scenario Q: I am very confused by the differing regulations for different nationalities coming to Thailand. I am an American and I recently received 30 days on arrival at the Pong Nam Ron border post. But my travelling companion from Belgium received only two weeks.

The officer on duty refused to explain but simply said his decisions were correct and final.

A: All countries have complex visa rules, in my experience. They sometimes mirror how easy it is for the nationals of host countries to travel to the tourist’s country. As regards the specific issue you raise, visa-less foreigners receiving a stamp on arrival at Thai border posts; there currently is a pilot scheme for some countries which include the US but not Belgium.

Muddle over tourist visa Q: I had a 60-day tourist visa but the officer at the airport only gave me 30 days, so I am now on overstay by two weeks. I also need the 30-day extension as my total time in Thailand will be three months. What should I do?

A: You need to visit the local Immigration Office to sort things out. They should be able to change the mistake made at the airport and award you the proper 60 days. In the circumstances you describe there should be no overstay fine. Separately, you need to obtain a 30-day extension on your 60-day visa. The fee for that is 1,900 baht.

Education visa Q: I have a one-year education visa but I have been sick and have not attended any classes for two months now. Will this problem get me into trouble?

year, making it the most popular beach resort in the country. (Vladimir H) The Worst Definitely the traffic! It goes from bad to worse and is made much worse by badly sequenced traffic lights and too many coaches all over the city clogging the roads. (Peter Frost) On my trip this year I have been very disappointed with the amount of uncollected rubbish on main roads, even including Sukhumvit Road in places.

Tourists these days expect a clean city. (OM) It’s got to be the street crime. I personally have had no problems but I read about robberies and assaults every day in the papers and on TV. It’s time the police cracked down. (Jason Williamson) Barking dogs for sure. Our street has several of them yapping all night. It’s made worse by owners who leave them chained up all day. (GF) The worst thing concerns the thieving ladyboys.

The police say they have removed most of them from Beach Road and Walking Street, but it seems to me that there are more of them than last year. (Len Madren) Although Pattaya wasn’t affected in 2013, the worst thing was the threat of street demonstrations and violence in Bangkok. Thais are having problems with their so-called democracy, I know, but tourists expect safety in all its aspects to come back here.

(Yvonne Sales)

A: Probably not, although the Immigration Bureau is increasingly looking for evidence of study in a language school. The best thing is to obtain a medical certificate and then visit the school to take their advice on procedures in circumstances such as yours.

Overstay for sick Q: I have accidentally overstayed my visa owing to a bad case of flu. When I leave the country I shall have eight days overstay. Am I right in assuming that I won’t be charged for overstaying provided I can prove I was ill?

A: You are not right. The regulations don’t allow for free overstays based on sickness, so you will need to pay 4,000 baht at the airport. Remember that you could have asked a friend to obtain your extra time at Immigration.

They would have needed your passport, one photo, proof of address (or hospital), and a medical letter.

Volunteer police Q: I am considering applying to join the foreign police volunteers or similar group, but I have been told I need to obtain a work permit. Is that true?

A: Not true. All foreigners formally assisting the police or the Tourist Police are given a special ID card issued and signed by the commander or superintendent.

Although one can have a debate about the alien labor legislation, in practice you won’t have any problem with that documentation should someone question you.

Cambodian business visa Q: I soon will visit Cambodia on a business trip and will arrive at Siem Reap airport. Must I obtain a visa in advance or can I obtain one on arrival?

A: Siem Reap and Phnom Penh airport authorities issue both tourist and business visas for 30 days; the fee for the business type is US $25. Business visas can be extended indefinitely, and it’s also possible to obtain a one-year multi-entry visa by applying at the Immigration Police in the capital or using an authorized agent.

Snap Judgment Media and Politics The Thai political crisis seems to change every day in a fast-moving scenario. Statements of apparent hard facts one day are flatly contradicted the next. Whether there will actually be a general election on February 2 or whether there will be overt or covert intervention by the Thai military nobody can know for sure.

One of the paradoxes of Thai politics is that although one side never listens to what the other side is saying, there is an uncanny ability to reach a compromise at the end of the day. Thus, most of the 20-odd coups or attempted putsches in the past 60 years did not result in substantial bloodshed.

Once one side accepted that they were outgunned, they threw in the towel. Yes there were exceptions to this routine, but not many.

In the current impasse, we certainly see that the protestors led by Suthep Thaugsuban and the Shinawatraled government are both in entrenched positions. The former want reform before an election and the latter the exact opposite. There is no shortage of pundits on either side ready to defend one of these positions. Although the possibility of talks or mediation has been mentioned, there is no real sign of compromise either on the streets or at Government House.

Polarizing positions ever harder in this political crisis is the social media. Networks such as Facebook and Twitter have been key factors in keeping the protestors and government supporters well-informed about the positions and actions of their respective leaders. But the social media is designed to exploit personal vanity and assemble like-minded friends, family, contacts and networks. There is absolutely no way in which Facebook or Twitter act as invitation platforms to those that hold contrary views and preferences. Consequently, divisions become entrenched because like-minded people reaffirm their beliefs in social groups and refuse even to contemplate any opposing perspectives.

Much the same can be said of political TV channels.

The government protestors tune into Blue Sky (actually the Democrats’ channel) or ASTV to hear nightly propaganda, whilst the red shirts have their own media outlets such as Asia Update. This media divide, which is total, means that nobody ever changes his mind as a result of watching TV. In Pattaya, there is one TV cable operator that airs mostly anti-government rallies and viewpoints whilst another does precisely the opposite.

It is actually pointless to expect Suthep Thaugsuban and Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to sit down at a table and hammer out a compromise. Their agendas are totally different and indeed contradictory. The government will keep parroting the need for democracy (by which they mean a general election they will surely win) and the opposition will keep calling for the abolition of the Shinawatra-led system of government (or rather of corruption, as Suthep would say). The question is whether you can improve democracy by delaying a general election to impose reforms in advance.

How the conflict will end is impossible to say. Realistically it will be up to the army, the only grouping in Thailand strong enough to impose its will. Both the protestors and the government have openly lobbied the military chiefs who, to date, have remained relatively impartial so far as anybody can see. But Suthep cannot win if the army backs the government and the Shinawatras cannot succeed if the army rallies to the opposition. This does not necessarily mean an army coup actually occurring with likely bloody consequences. The matter may eventually be settled by a word in your ear. Let’s hope so.

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Local Sports Local and International Motorsports Report Recent Race Updates: 2014 F1 News: No changes with F1 star Michael Schumacher after serious skiing accident on Dec 29, 2013. The clinical state of Michael Schumacher who remains in a medical coma is considered as stable and is constantly monitored by the medical treatments that are administered to him. However, the medical team responsible underlines that they will not stop to consider Michael's condition as critical.

Next Race: Mar 14-16 2014 - Australian GP, Albert Park www.formula1.com (free live timing and scoring online) **All events will be shown on Star Sports Asia 2014 NASCAR News: 2013 NASCAR Driver of the Year goes to Matt Kenseth (Joe Gibbs Racing) Next Race: Feb 15 2014 - Daytona International Speedway (Daytona, Florida) www.nascar.com (free live timing and scoring online) **All events will be shown on Star Sports Asia 2014 Indy Car News: Former Indianapolis 500, F1 and NASCAR race winner Juan Pablo Montoya will return to Indy car with Team Penske in 2014 after 7 years of absence while driving in NASCAR Next Race: Mar 30 2014 - Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg (St. Petersburg, Florida) www.indycar.com (free live timing and scoring online) **All events will be shown on Star Sports Asia 2014 MotoGP News: 2013 MotoGP Star of the Year goes to Spanish Rookie and 2013 MotoGP Series Champion Marc Marquez.

Next Race: Mar 23 2014 - Qatar MotoGP www.motogp.com (free live timing and scoring online) **All events will be shown on Star Sports Asia **Local Thailand Motorsports** Thailand Super Series Final Race18-22 December at Bangsaen Street Festival (TSS) 2013 The final event of the 2013 Thailand Super Series was held at Bangsan Street Cirsuit on 18-22 December 2013. There was non-stop action all weekend and the Super Car champions were crowned in Class I and II. Top 3 drivers final results and points standings: Super Car Class 1 1) Wutthikorn Inthraphuwasak - Porsche 997 GT3R 2) Piti Phirompakdee – Porsche 997 GT3R 3) Chonsawad Udsawaheam – Lamborghini Gallardo LP600 Super Car Class 2 1) Natthapong Horthongkarm – Toyota 86 Team Thailand 2) Craig Corliss - Holden VE Commodore V8 3) Akekarat Ditjaroen – Porsche 997 GT3 Cup www.thailandsuperseries.net Bobby Brooks™ Follow me on Twitter: @racebobby

PSC Golf from The Growling Swan

by Peter Blackburn

Treasure Hill – Stableford After a couple of last minute cancellations and inclusions we settled for a field of 28 starters to take on the challenging Treasure Hill layout. We assembled at The Growling Swan and handed out welcomes to Richard and Carole Kubicki from Cyprus, UK, Andy Todd from Hartfield Country Club in Perth, Western Australia, Peter Long and Gary Williams from Melbourne, Victoria and Dave Fletcher back again for some R & R, and Jack Robertson joining us once again. Sadly it was time to say bon voyage to dear friend Volker Buley who returned to Germany after four weeks in Pattaya, and Mick “Bear” Wilks who returned to Melbourne. Once again all were on time so our three mini vans got away at 8:25 a.m. we arrived at the course 45 minutes later. It was reasonably busy and another large group arrived just after us so we quickly got ready and managed to get onto the first tee and send our first group away 20 minutes early.

The weather was great once more and the golf course was looking good although a lot of the greens had residual sand All in all not too bad. Some of the fairways were quite wet as the sprinklers were on. Workers scurried to turn them off as we approached.

The pace was quite good with no-one ahead of us until we got to the “crocodile hole.” Lo and behold there was a group of six Thais on the 17th green, obviously doing some “hole hopping” as we had not seen anyone in front of us all day. As they proceeded to the 18th tee, I wandered over and asked where they had come from. I only received blank stares, so a series of gestures from myself seemed to get the message through and they disappeared fairly quickly.

It wasn’t one of our quickest rounds but certainly an enjoyable one and we finished in four hours and 25 minutes.

We had three divisions – A for handicaps 0 to 17, B for golfers on handicaps of 18 to 28, and C for 29 and over, with three places in each division.

There were also rewards for nearest-the-pin on the four par 3’s and longest first putts on the 9th and 18th greens.

Mark “Westy” West continued his good form and won Division A with a fine 38 points, 2 points ahead of your writer, Peter “Blacky” Blackburn, in second place, with Andy Todd finishing third on 35 points. Carole Kubicki easily won the B Division with 38 points, and in a count-back for second and third with two on 32 points was Stephen Newton (17 point back nine) who prevailed over Tiziano Dal Pastro (16-point back nine) in third spot. In C Division, Andrew “Turtle” Allen was victorious with 36 points and Ian Masterson was second with 34 points. Another count-back was required to determine third spot as there were two on 26 points and it went to Volker Buley (12 point back nine) with Vince Romeo (11-point back nine) just missing out.

Results for Treasure Hill: Division A – 0 to 17 1st – Mark West (15) - 38 points 2nd – Peter Blackburn (13) - 36 points 3rd – Andy Todd (12) - 35 points Division B – 18 to 28 1st – Carole Kubicki (24) - 38 points 2nd – Stephen Newton (27) - 32 points 3rd – John Davis (18) – 36 points 4th – Tiziano Dal Pastro (26) - 32 points Division C – 29 and over 1st – Andrew Allen (34) – 36 points 2nd – Ian Masterson (36) - 34 points 3rd – Volker Buley (31) – 26 points NTP’s 2nd – Ken Hole 6th - Tiziano Dal Pastro 13th – John Davis 17th – Steephen Newton LFP’s 9th – Richard Kubicki 18th – Ted Morris

Bunker Boys at The Ranch

by Neil Griffin

Crystal Bay G.C. Thirty-four golfers turned out to tackle one of the more reasonably-priced courses in the area. Another lovely day in the Land of Smiles saw the field being directed to tee off at A course before being redirected onto the less busy B course. Generally good scores are returned here and today was no exception, especially from A flight where Tony Berry edged out Gerry Cooney on countback, the latter also just missing out on a hole-in-one. In the lower positions, another count-back was needed to separate 3rd and 4th places, with Tony Scrambler just victorious over Colin Greig.

B flight was not so tight and 38 points saw “steady eddy” Ken Young take the honors from Jack Robertson. If he’s not careful with his upturn in form we’ll soon be accusing him of being a golfer!

Incident of the day occurred on the fairway of hole number 7 where a 4-foot long monitor lizard managed to get itself stuck head down in a storm drain grating. Neil Griffin took pity on the animal and as he attempted to pull it free by the tail, the animal managed to jackknife 180 degrees to bite the Good Samaritan on the hand. A bloody wound resulted with a ripped golf glove for good measure. Fortunately the damage was minor and with the help of an eight iron the caddies shoehorned the animal into the drain. Bet he doesn’t try that again!

A Flight 1st Tony Berry (hcp. 12) 39 pts.

2nd Gerry Cooney (hcp. 13) 39 pts.

3rd Tony Scambler (hcp. 8) 38 pts.

4th Colin Greig (hcp. 7) 38 pts.

B Flight 1st Ken Young (hcp. 28) 38 pts.

2nd Jack Robertson (hcp. 27) 36 pts.

3rd Daryl Whyte (hcp. 25) 35 pts.

4th Dave Keats (hcp. 35) 33 pts.

Near pins: Gerry Cooney, John Graham, Daryl Whyte, and Tony Scrambler

The Growling Swan NAGA Award, (awarded to the golfer who has the worst score on the day and discreetly their score is not made public) was won by Growling Swan mine host Peter (Pizza) Grey who accepted the award like the good sport that he is. Andrew then kindly paraded Deefa the Dog and of course collected many donations for the needy in Pattaya from our generous Growling Swan golfers. Back at The Growling Swan afterwards there was a good crowd and it was great catching up with the Kubickis again although they had somewhat of a thirst on which caused Peter Grey to place an urgent order for more Singha which duly arrived in the nick of time. It had been another quality day out which all enjoyed and we all look forward to many more.

Growling Swan Golf, the home of friendly golf in Pattaya, welcomes golfers of any persuasion – low and high handicappers alike, female golfers and beginners. We generally play Mondays and Thursdays, meeting at The Growling Swan on Soi Chaiyapoon at 8 a.m. with transport departing at 8:30. For bookings or more information contact Peter 0806 351 386 or email: petermalcolmblackburn@gmail.com We also play bowls out of the Growling Swan every Wednesday and Sunday.

Sunday is Lawn Bowls and Wednesday is Indoor Bowls. All are welcome. Transport leaves at 10 a.m. each morning. For more information contact Paul Rennison 084 345 4005.

Green Valley G.C. (Medal) The course was busy when we arrived. We had to wait for caddies but fortunately we got away on time. The weather was hazy but quite a bit warmer than in recent weeks. Fairways were in good condition, but the greens played a lot slower than our previous visit two weeks earlier. December Golfer of the Month, Colin Greig (hcp. 7) managed to record his first NR in living memory (Bunker records only go back 15 years!), after carding a 13 on the par 5 eighth hole followed by OB on the 10th.

In A flight there was a first win for Mark Stanley on his eighth attempt since his return, edging Geoff Parker by a shot, who managed to recover from a 9 on the par 5 first hole. In turn, Geoff edged out Keith Norman into third by a count-back with all three golfers bettering par. In B flight the scores were nearly as good with Gordon Melia marching on with a winning 2 under par net 70 (sure he puts his cards in for handicap?) Keith Hemmings finished a single shot behind and Mike Corner a further shot adrift but still shooting par.

A Flight 1st Mark Stanley (hcp. 10) Net 69 2nd Geoff Parker (hcp. 14) Net 70 3rd Keith Norman (hcp. 13) Net 70 B Flight 1st Gordon Melia (hcp. 18) Net 70 2nd Keith Hemmings (hcp. 16) Net 71 3rd Mike Corner (hcp. 21) Net 72 Near pins: Patrick Kelly, Keith Hemmings, Keith Allen, and Mark Stanley The Bunker Boys are a PSC- affiliated golf society that now plays out of The Ranch bar on Pattaya Third Road (in front of the fire station opposite the Buffalo Bar). We play three times a week (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, and new players are always welcome. Contact Buff on 086 046 5091 or 080 605 5663 for all enquiries. You can find all the news, schedules and results at www.bunkersociety.com.

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Tips & Advice QUICK TIP

Common places for animal nests are underneath decks and exterior steps.

To avoid sharing these spaces with wild animals, block all openings and/or surround such areas with fencing material or latticed wood. Make sure to sink the barrier several inches into the ground to discourage animals from burrowing under.

Filter Tip We have friends who smoke (we don’t) and after they’ve been here to dinner or a party or something, our condo smells like smoke for days. We’re thinking about buying an air filter but we’re not sure how effective they are in really cleaning the air. Any tips?

Charles Before buying an air cleaner, Charles, you should know that such devices are not designed to remove tobacco odors; they only remove smoke and dust.

Gases from smoke stick to walls, furniture, and clothing and over time seep back into the air. Those items—and everything else, i.e., floor, ceiling, drapes, windows-must be thoroughly cleaned, preferably with products that contain ammonia and glycol.

Meanwhile, keep windows open, fans on high, and place small bowls of white vinegar or ammonia in each room.

Hot Spot We plan to redo our small kitchen and would appreciate any advice you can offer before we begin the project. Anything would help.

Jan If you like to work in an efficient kitchen, Jan, think in terms of a work triangle--the sink, range and refrigerator being between 2 to 3 meters from one another. To help with space issues, consider toe drawers below your cabinets;

use heavy-duty extension slides for the drawers; if you aren't sure how to fit them in, have a local carpenter do the installation.

Focus on clutter-free counter tops which allow more work area. Toward that end, mount appliances under cabinets, out of your way. Have a drawer near the stove for cooking utensils. If buying major appliances, compare energy efficient ratings and annual operating costs. A more expensive refrigerator, for example, could pay for itself through lower utility bills.

Wax and Wayne Do you have any suggestions on how to prevent wax candles from melting and sticking to the inside of candleholders?

Wayne There’s nothing you can do to prevent the wax from melting, Wayne, but you can prevent it from sticking to the candleholders.

Before inserting the candlestick, pour a bit of water into the holder, then place the candle on top. The next time you find hardened wax stuck to your candleholder, pop it in the freezer for an hour or so. The wax will then chip right off.

Oil and Water My wife and I just bought a house on the dark side, Andy, and it’s going to need lots of work—like a new roof, tile floor, etc. We’ll hire the work out, but before we start having the place painted, I want to know if we should use oil-

based paint or water-based? That may sound like a stupid question to you and your DIY readers, but house painting is new to me. Most of my friends advise using latex paint, others insist that oil is better.

Which is it? I would rather not leave the decision to the hired help.

Otto

and areas of the home that are more vulnerable to staining. Also, surfaces subject to more wear are better off with oil-based paint— which has a harder finish and is easier to clean. You also want the durability of an oil-based product when you paint furniture, which normally gets more wear.

Water-based latex paint is the more popular choice for interior projects, Otto, because it doesn’t smell as bad or for as long as oil based paint, it dries more quickly, and it’s easier to clean up. That applies as well to brushes, rollers, etc. After painting with an oilbased product you need to use a paint thinner or solvent to remove the paint. Not so for latex, which requires only water to clean.

Also, latex paint is thinned with water, so you don’t need to deal with paint thinner. An oil-based product will usually be a better choice if you’re painting an area that requires superior adhesion—a chalky surface, for example, or a surface that previously has had several layers of oil-based paint applied to it. To further ensure adhesion, first use an oil primer or the oil-based paint may flake later.

Latex is usually more forgiving and is not as likely to flake and peel if not primed. That said, it nevertheless is a good idea to seal wallpaper with an oil primer before painting with latex paint.

Because of its durability and stainresistance, an oil-based paint is also the better choice for painting bathrooms, kitchens, interior trim,

Critter Twitter Two questions, Andy: Firstly, I have funny little elongated insects that crawl up the wall, stick themselves to the cornicing on the ceiling and die. That cannot be the end of their story. How do these critters get to my 18th floor condo?

Second, I have minute, fast-moving ants that swarm in from nowhere when even a tiny particle of food falls to the floor. Spraying has not worked. Any advice would be welcome.

Richard

Frank, Forthright & Frigid Dear Agony Ivy, Sleep woes My husband and I have been married for 12 years and have two children. Our marriage has had its share of ups and downs but we have always managed to survive the bad times. My problem is that my husband sleeps on the couch 95 percent of the time instead of in our bed. He makes excuses such as he “fell asleep watching the TV” or he “forgot about the time”.

I don’t like sleeping by myself every night and I have tried to explain how upsetting this is for

me. But my husband just refuses to change his behaviour. I took courage a few nights ago and said I would sue for a divorce if he didn’t start coming back to bed. His reply was along the lines of the sooner the better. I am turning to midnight feasts as a sex substitute. What can I do to save my marriage?

Lonely Lill Agony Ivy writes: Dear Lonely Lill, I am not at all sure you have a marriage worth saving. Actually, there are many reasons why people sleep

apart. Your husband could have body odor, or so might you, come to that. He may find you physically repulsive, especially as you are putting on so much weight. I suggest you visit him on his couch in the middle of the night looking your best.

For example, remember to put your false teeth in and take out those hair grips. If this fails to make your husband feel sexy, then best to call it a day. In case worse comes to worst, I am sending you a copy of my helpful pamphlet, “Taking Pride in a Sexless Partnership”.

Inasmuch as there are some 10 million species of insects in the world (most unidentified), I’d be hard-pressed to identify the bugs in your condo, Richard. As to how they got to the 18th floor, maybe they took the elevator, or hid in grocery bags, or attached to furniture, or were in building materials when your condo was under construction. Ants, which comprise nearly 12,000 of the 10 million insect species, may have gotten up there by any of those same means, or they may have made the long climb; they are tenacious buggers. To combat ants, soak wads of cotton in a paste made of

Dear Agony Ivy, Club trouble I am a widower of 68 as my dear wife passed away suddenly last year. This has left me feeling extremely lonely for the company of the opposite sex.

To meet other people I tried a number of ideas but none of them have worked out. I tried playing bingo, which is popular with women, but could not hear the numbers properly as I am a bit deaf. People got very annoyed indeed when I asked the caller to repeat the number. Even during the interval nobody talked to me. It was a total waste of time-not to say expensive. I then joined a computer club as I have always wanted to learn how to send and receive emails. This was another complete waste of time as there were no women members at all. I am getting very desperate so I am pleading

equal parts boric acid and sugar in warm water, and place in the ants’ path. Meanwhile, store foods such as sugar, syrup, honey, and pet food in closed containers.

Thoroughly clean all spills.

Toss garbage daily.

Stain Bane Is there an easy and effective way to remove stains from upholstery?

Minnie It depends on the fabric and the staining agent, Minnie. You’ll have most success with fabrics that don’t fade or shrink. In general, anti-stain procedures call for immediate action. Blot up liquids with absorbent cloth or paper towel; scrape off any residue with a dull knife or other blade-like device. Now, mix about a half liter of water (cool or warm) with 2 teaspoons of mild dish detergent. Dampen a soft white cloth in the foam of the solution (apply sparingly), and gently wipe or pat the stain. No harsh rubbing.

Repeat as necessary, then rinse with a damp sponge. Use a blow dryer or other device to encourage rapid drying. If your furniture has cushions, do not remove the covers in order to clean them.

Signs of Our Times In an office: Would the person who took the step ladder yesterday please bring it back or further steps will be taken.

--Handy Andy

with you to make some sensible suggestions about meeting some nice women to brighten up my dreary life. Please do not suggest old time dancing as it makes me breathless.

Bereft Bert Agony Ivy writes: Dear Bereft Bert, This is a case of the harder you try, the less likely you are to succeed.

No need to make any special arrangements. When you are in the supermarket, try smiling at the ladies or even offer to carry their bags.

Start chatting when you are at the bus stop and ask them where they are going.

I am also sending you the contact details of a 24-hour emergency legal service as you may try speaking to the wrong lady who insists on calling the police.

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Our Community

Locals donate to monks More than 100 monks from Pattaya temples proceeded along Soi Yume (behind Big C Extra) to receive food and gifts from local residents. People throughout the Kingdom have been presenting alms to monks from nearby temples to make merit and receive blessings for the New Year.

Pattaya Sports and Hand to Hand visit the darker side of the City

by William Macey

There are many reasons why visitors come to Thailand. Excellent year-round weather, good food, and hospitality. It is easy to embrace the glitz and glamour of Beach Road, Walking Street and Second Road, but there is another side to Pattaya that is largely unknown not only to tourists, but to those of us that have made Thailand our home.

Shut away along small, unknown sois is a world that is foreign to most of us and we are unaware that there are hundreds of families living in abject poverty existing on just a few hundred baht per week.

Some charities go out of their way to help, whenever possible, those families that live in slums around the city. Hand To Hand is one where a woman named Pie makes regular visits to slums. In particular,

she visits slum No. 7 to determine how Hand To Hand can help. It goes without saying that she comes away with a shopping list on every occasion and her recent request to Pattaya Sports Club is a case in point.

No.1 request. A 70-year-old man, unable to leave his bed for many years, living in a tin hut with only a 150 cm clearance making it unbearably hot and humid in the sun. The roof had to be removed and replaced, at a more reasonable height, with plaster sheeting and some vents used for air circulation.

No.2 request. A 65-year-old lady, again unable to leave her bed, living in what is left of her home. The recent heavy rains congregated on the floor, to a depth of 60 cm making it necessary to elevate the bed on bricks for weeks to keep her from

being saturated. The solution was to build another home for her on higher ground.

No.3 request. A man was evicted from his home which was being replaced with condos by a developer, but slum No.7 had no home for him to live in. A new home was built.

Pattaya Sports Club was approached for the finance and, following an inspection of their predicaments, the decision to help was easy for the committee to make. All three families are happy with the improvements and will sleep better at night.

It is difficult to describe the appalling conditions in which these families live.

Donations of clothes, food or toys are always welcome. If you are able to help, contact Pattaya Sports Club or William on 086 152 2754.

Pattaya Sports Club celebrates Children’s Day

by William Macey

Children’s Day is always a happy event in Pattaya. Some 3,000 children had the day off from their studies and came to be entertained by a boy band, lady dancers, side shows and, of course, food--particularly noodles. Mayor Mai opened the event and acknowledged the contributions of Pattaya Sports Club and its friend Nigel Oakes.

When Nigel visits these families his concern is obvious—reflecting that something must be done. His substantial

donation together with the contribution from Pattaya Sports Club go a long way to ease the problems for these families.

There are many severely handicapped people, both young and old, around Nongprue, unable to live normal lives.

Some are restricted to spending every day at home and in bed. Others need help to move around the area. Most need 24/7 care and attention. One parent or family member must be in attendance at all times

and, therefore, unable to earn a living. They need many essentials each day and that eats into their limited finances.

Nongprue municipality ensures that these families receive some essential supplies monthly. That includes fortified milk, pampers, rice and other items.

The mayor or deputy mayor is there to present these items. And that is when the contributions of Nigel and Pattaya Sports Club make the difference.

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Youth Focus Amazing Animals

by Nicola Ireland, Mooltripakdee International School Animals come in all shapes and sizes. Big and small, cute and furry or scary and dangerous. Every kind of animal is amazing.

In this last half semester

of Theme, Year 1 explored the world of animals in Pets and Animals That Work. In our pet lessons we talked about common pets such as cats and dogs,

rabbits, fish and turtles. We found out that some people keep unusual pets such as snakes, rats, spiders, pigs and scorpions. The children brought in pictures of their pets and we drew pictures of unusual pet homes keeping in mind their needs such as food, bedding and size.

We had some interesting looking homes.

The topic of Working Animals and Animals That Used to Work was the most interesting. The children never thought of animals having a job. What kind of animal would have a job and what would they do?

What animal used to work

but doesn’t now?

We did a little bit of research and found out.

The different animals we talked about were elephants, horses, camels, dogs and

pigeons. The children were so interested in this that I thought it would be a great extension of what we learned in class to do research on their own at home. They

Is cursive behind the curve?

A debate has recently broken out in the United States over whether there is still any point in children learning joined handwriting (or 'cursive') - a difficult, time-consuming and, arguably, increasingly irrelevant skill.

Back in England the Department for Education evidently thinks there is, inasmuch as the new National Curriculum for primary schools unequivocally states that by years 3 and 4 "joined handwriting should be the norm."

So, given that education policy-makers consider the learning of cursive to be important, what are the key arguments in favour of it?

A bit of light research has them coalescing into three propositions: t it has a positive impact on cognitive development, (the idea being that it stimulates brain activity and neural networking) t it helps in the development of fine motor skills (the ability to control and coordinate the small muscles in the hand and fingers) t it is a cultural tradition, an 'art form' even, worth preserving.

Whilst these arguments initially seem quite persuasive, they may be less so on closer scrutiny.

Ideas about interventions to stimulate cognitive development in children are seductive but invariably turn out to be incredibly difficult to test in any kind of rigorous way. Rather like the claims made for playing Mozart to sleeping infants, it is something many of us feel ought to be true but for which there appears to be little or no credible scientific evidence.

Far less disputable is the idea that learning cursive helps with fine motor skills. This is undoubtedly true, but then so do many other activities (scissor or ruler skills, for example) that don't require their own scheme of work and timetabled lessons.

As for the notion of preserving a cultural tradition, there are numerous cultural traditions/art forms that enthusiasts believe are worthy of preservation--Morris dancing and brass rubbing are two that come to mind. But would anyone seriously propose their mandatory inclusion in an already over-crowded curriculum?

There are also a number of arguments against the teaching of cursive, two of which I find particularly compelling. The first is a straightforward question of available time. This time consideration is especially significant for a school where the majority of students have English as a second or additional language. The core elements of language learning are speaking, understanding, reading and writing. Each of these elements represents a magnified challenge for non- native English learners, so why complicate matters further (and,

were to choose one of the animals discussed working or non-working and bring a report to class.

The children’s reports were so wonderful and interesting that we made a display and hung it on the wall outside for everyone to see. They did such a fantastic job that I am sure to give more assignments like this in the future. Good work, Year 1. You are amazing, too!

by Matthew Bolton, Mooltripakdee International School

moreover, expend precious lesson time) by introducing the additional challenge of learning cursive?

However, to my mind, the most compelling argument for abandoning the teaching of cursive is that of relevance and usefulness. When was the last time you received or produced a significant hand-written document? Personally, I can't remember. The vast majority of our written communications, personal and professional, involve typing words onto a screen. Surely the key skill our students need to acquire is mastery of the keyboard rather than the pen alongside the ability to use the programs that facilitate the production of documents.

Whilst we undoubtedly have a responsibility to teach our children about the past, do we not have an equal responsibility to prepare them for the world they are growing into?

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You & Your Pets Saying ‘goodbye’ to a little friend

by RJ Peters We usually don’t give any thought to the eventual passing of our dogs, cats and other animals that we accept into our homes as little members of our families. Particularly if the adopted pet enters your home as a pup or kitten and is so much closer to birth than to death. But, sadly, die they will eventually, and all animal lovers would be well served to prepare for that day.

Here are some thoughts on what you can do to help ease that experience--both for your pet and for you. It can be an emotionally difficult time for you; I’m hopeful that these tips will help you and your beloved little friend get through it with minimum suffering.

One question that immediately comes to mind is, Should I hold my dying pet? The answer best comes from the dog or cat itself. If he wants to be comforted, he will come to you and curl up on your lap or in your arms. Let it be.

In any event, stay close and remain available for anything that might be needed: water, handfed food, a special treat, a gentle hug, or a quick cleaning that might be necessary.

Talk to your little friend calmly and soothingly to let her know she is loved.

Do what you can to ensure that the animal is

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

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

comfortable. Keep the room warm—or cool, as the case may be--and quiet. Provide soft bedding and any preferred dolls or soothing toys. And avoid loud noises, such as a blaring television, raucous children tearing through the house, or yelling and arguing. (Surely you can keep things quiet for a little while.)

Do you have other pets? If so, allow them to visit the dying animal for a moment so that when it is no longer around, they will not go crazy searching for it. They will recognize and understand the "death smell."

Is your furry friend hurting from its fatal ailment? Ask your veterinarian for medication to help control pain. If euthanasia becomes necessary, stay with your cat or dog until the end, but do your best not to cry. Your sobbing will make him feel like he's done something wrong. Hold your tears until later.

Finally, after your cat or dog has passed away, you and/or your family may need closure as well.

It might be a comforting gesture to arrange a brief burial service or ritual of some kind.

Dr. Roberta Peters is the author of three informative and entertaining books about household pets. They include Our Amazing Cats, and Our Amazing Cats Vol. 2, now available from Amazon Books and at www. ouramazingcats.com. Even more recently she has penned a compelling book on our canine friends, Our Amazing Dogs. To download ebook versions of any or all three books (only about 200 baht each), go to http://youniquesolutions. com/3Books.html. Dr. Peters also publishes a free newsletter, The Kitty Times. To subscribe, go to: http://www.theproblemcat.com.

Tic, Tac, Toe

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 cat’s brain is biologically more similar to a human brain than it is to a dog’s? Both humans and cats have identical regions in their brains that are responsible for emotions.

If your cat insists on taking portions of food out of the bowl to eat somewhere else, it might be related to a feeling of competition. In the wild, animals that eat with others or in groups, such as a pack or a pride, need to ensure that they get enough food to survive. It's just an instinct. You can help your little lion feel safe by feeding him or her in a private space, or at another time if there are other cats in the house.

Even your presence could influence them, so you may find it helps if you walk away, too.

Roberta Peters is the author of three informative and entertaining books about household pets. They include Our Amazing Cats, and Our Amazing Cats Vol. 2, available from Amazon Books and at www.ouramazingcats. com. Now she has published a compelling book on our canine friends, Our Amazing Dogs. To download ebook versions of her books (only about 200 baht each), go to http://youniquesolutions.com/3Books.html.

Dr. Peters also publishes a free newsletter, The Kitty Times. To subscribe, go to: http://www.theproblemcat.com.

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Games

CROSSWORD Across 1.

4.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

16.

18.

20.

21.

24.

25.

26.

27.

country (5) yearn for (6) place to walk (7) overturn (5) songbird (4) aggravate (7) the night before (3) preciptaion (4) consumes (4) out of date (3) improve by alteration (7) celebrity (4) bring into agreement (5) drastic (7) milliner (6) one of the senses (5)

Down 1. urges 2. church feature 3. show boredom 5. fought in a disorderly way 6. immediate 7. high regard 8. eagle's nest 13. fill with wonder 15. cause suffering to 17. initiate for discussion 18. willow 19. ornamental band 22. layers 23. let it stand

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

Solution Issue 08

Brain Tester

This week’s subject is GENERAL KNOWLEDGE 1. Which gas reminds you of Superman?

2. On which island is Wall Street?

3. What number Baker Street did Holmes live?

4. Which William wrote a poem about daffodils?

5. Which baron was Red in world war one?

6. In which year did the Lusitania sink?

7. Which ology is ringing bells?

8. Who wrote the novel Dr Zhivago?

9. In Billy Elliot, what does the father want his son to become?

10. Who was prime minister of Britain at the beginning of 1940?

11. Which of the deadly sins begins with a letter G?

12. In five letters where in your body is the pituitary gland?

13. Who first noticed the sun has spots?

14. In which city other than London do you find Cleopatra’s Needle?

15. During which war was the movie Platoon set?

16. Who directed the movie Born on the 4th of July?

17. Who introduced every episode in the TV series Thriller produced in the 1960s?

18. In which US state was Elvis Presley born?

19. Which Abba album had a French title?

20. Who recorded the album Sleeping with the Past?

1.Krypton, 2. Manhattan. 3 221B. 4. Wordsworth; 5. Von Richthofen. 6. 1915. 7. Campanology. 8. Boris Pasternak. 9. Boxer.

10. Neville Chamberlain. 11. Gluttony. 12. Brain. 13. Galileo. 14. New York. . 15. Vietnamese. 16. Oliver Stone. 17. Boris Karloff. 18. Mississippi.

19. Voulez-Vous. 20. Elton John.

Answers:

PUNS

• A backward poet writes inverse.

• In democracy it's your vote that counts. In feudalism it's your count that votes.

• When cannibals ate a missionary, they got a taste of religion.

• Don't join dangerous cults: Practice safe sects!

t i gh t a r y c r a c k e k n e l a d y e s e t a l c m r g i n r o a d s o b t h u m b e n l r e d d e n

g r a v e

e m e r c e h a n i t

b e n o t i i c e u d

p s s p e c r u f o l o d m v b l e

Sud oku

r s c o r e l e n e p a r a g y e a r

Solution on Page 30

9 7 3 4 9 6 5 7 4 9 2 8 1 6 8 5 2 1 7 9 5 1 2 2 3 8

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