REm Thailand
REALESTATE e n i z a g a m incorporating pattaya living
Big happenings in Bang Saray:
New condo project from CW Asset
Issue 131 • April 2012
Cartoon Network puts its name to water park
Issue 131 • April 2012
เรียล เอสเตท แม๊กกาซีน ไทยแลนด์
Since 2001 – Thailand’s first English language property magazine Managing Director Dave Buckley Tel: 087 988 0799 dave@thailandpropertymagazine.com Publisher/Editor Mesiya Watson may@realestatemagazinethailand.com Sales and Marketing Wongduan Roberts Tel: 087 535 8096 duan@thailandpropertymagazine.com or realestatemag@hotmail.com or dave@thailandpropertymagazine.com Office/Accounts Tel: 038 406519 or 08 6335 2474 dear@thailandpropertymagazine.com Web address www.realestatemagazinethailand.com Artwork, Design & Layout Zen Grafix • Tel: 038 406519 Publisher Pattaya Property Consultants Co Ltd 21/27 M5 Soi Nern Plub Waan Nongprue • Banglamung Chonburi 20150 Tel: 038 406519 or 08 6335 2474 Fax: 038 041158
Our team
who’swho
Water park is no joke I’ve developed a bit of aversion to the use of the word very. It’s probably something to do with my journalistic training from way back in the late ’60s before computers, mobile phones and the Internet took over our lives. Ask REm columnists how many times they have tried to slip the word into their articles only to see it disappear.
Dave Buckley looks at an exciting project on its way outside Bang Saray
It has almost got to the stage where I hunt it down using “seek and find”. All verys and extremelys should be committed to the words scrapheap in my estimation. But, yes, some do still creep through, so please don’t waste time looking for them. So why is it that am I chuntering on about this? Well, I was considering how to describe the news that a water park branded by the Cartoon Network is coming to Bang Saray. Interesting? Bit tame. Very interesting? There’s that very word again. Extremely interesting? No, none of these quite sums it up, in my opinion. Perhaps I should just plagerise the words of a friend on the internet who wrote via Facebook: “Wow! Is this true?” Yes,
“wow” is getting there because this news really is a wow for all those who see their futures in and around Pattaya. Wow and double wow. And perhaps I could add a few “cripes” and “yippees” and “yikes” which are good old cartoon exclamations. Because if, as my friend asks, this is true, then another few wheels have been added to the “Pattaya as a family destination” bandwagon by the news. But is it true? Well, what reason is there to doubt it? I can’t imagine an executive
Publication Licence Number 2/2549
of a company that is part of Time-Warner making it up. Can you? It wasn’t even
Disclaimer: All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the editor. The publishers are not responsible for any error contained within the magazine. The publishers also accept no liability for the accuracy of statements made by the advertisers or writers. The views of correspondents are not necessarily those of the magazine. Articles are produced containing upto-date information to the best of our knowledge. However, we accept no liability for information contained within any article.
sounds exciting to me.
Copyright © Real Estate MAGAZINE Thailand 2012
2•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
April 1 when he said it. Even if you apply the “this is Thailand” note of caution it still The park would create jobs and it is estimate than more than three-quarters of a million people might visit it each year. Now that is something to sit up and take note of. It will surely have a positive impact on short-term rentals and local hotel bookings. And the restaurants and bars might not fare too badly either. Work is already well under way. We might even have it for next year. But, let’s not get carried away. The Cartoon Network isn’t Disney nor is it Universal though the word Disney has also cropped up lately. See Page 7. But it is a big, internationally-recognised brand name and another sure sign of the direction in which Pattaya is heading. Big name hotels, large shopping malls, giant new residential projects and now a holiday attraction that will grab the attention of families with young children (who need entertaining) from all over the world. All sounds pretty good to me. I welcome the water park – and I can’t even swim!
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OURadvertisers AAAA Properties 32 ACI Design & Construction/ACI Ocean Properties 34-35 A.D Condominium 67 Alan Bolton Property Consultants 12 Amari Residences Pattaya (Nova) 63 Amazon Residence (Matrix) 78m, Back Cover Art on the Hill (Matrix) 77 Atlantis Condo Resort Pattaya 33 Bang Saray Beach Condominium Cover Benihana Restaurant 113 Big Mango Properties 58-59 CARS Pattaya (map sponsors – Tulip) Inside back cover City Center Residence (Matrix) 76 City Garden 3 Coastal Real Estate 26 Colliers International 81-88 C-View (Heights Holdings) 51, 55 Dicey Reilly’s Pub & Eatery 115 Dusit Grand Condo View 42-43 East Coast Real Estate 41 Elegance Condominium @ Cosy Beach 27 Euro Design Furniture Back cover of LIVING, 103 FARANG Services 4-5 Global Property (Global Solidor) 62 Golden Homes Real Estate 10-11 Green Field Villas IV 22-24 Heights Holdings Inside front cover, 1 InfraredGuard 79 Laguna Beach Resort 2 (Heights Holdings) 49, 53, 57 Lion Bar, The 123 Matrix Group 75 Meridiem Condominium (Domum) 37 Mövenpick Resort Between 56-57 Mydestination.com in association with REm 111 Nam Talay (Nova) 45 Novana Residence (Nova) 69 One Stop Real Estate 25 Palm, The (Nova) 15 Paradise Ocean View (Global Tower) 16-17 Pattaya Business Center 60-61 Pattaya Real Estate Connections 79 Pattaya Realty 14 Platinum Suites (Beach Properties) 79 Porch Land V (La Santir) Between 40-41 REBA-ES (Real Estate Broker Association) 92-93 Rightmove Pattaya 30-31 Siam Properties 28-29 Talay Real Estate 38-39 Town & Country Property 8-9 Tropical Dream 20-21 View, The (Matrix) 74 View-talay-condos.net 36 Vision, The (Matrix) 73 Waterfront Suites & Residences (Tulip) Inside Directory, 95 Vineyard III, The (La Residence) 65 Zen in the Park Between 24 and 25 4•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
OURCONTENTS
cover story
pattaya
A new chapter in luxurious living
living
104: W(H)etting your appetite – the advent of Songkran heralds a month of watery Thai New Year madness in Pattaya. We offer
12
advice on the best places to go (or avoid)! Big things are happening in Bang Saray on both the development and tourism front (see facing page). CW Asset has announced the launch of its latest condo offering – CW Ocean View Condominium which will offer fully furnished units for less than Bt1m.
100: style that fits! This month we de-mystify all the different
house
and design styles so you can avoid (con)fusion about Tropical Modern and Contemporary Asian.
18 50
The 5th of the 5th ’55 – is special for Atlantis Condo. They will give away this car at a party that day.
Goin’ South II looks at Bang Saray (pictured) and The Good, the Bad and the Ugly in Ban Amphur.
6•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
64
The developers of The Vineyard
124: moving and shaking bangkok!
series of projects are in line for
The networking event that started in Pattaya
another top award this month.
has switched its attention to the Big Mango.
NEWSREPORT
Top TV channel branding for Bang Saray water park The first phase of the project, Cartoon Network Amazone, is being developed with the local Amazon Falls Co and will open next year, according to a report in the Bangkok Post. The water park is being built on 35 rai at a cost of Bt1bn on part of the site formerly planned for The Beaches project. It will feature a lush Amazon rainforest and cartoon heroes like Ben 10, the Powerpuff Girls and Johnny Bravo. Attractions will include a giant wave pool, a winding adventure river, speed-racing slides, family raft rides and one of the world’s largest interactive water-play fortresses. When fully operational, the park is expected to attract 800,000 visitors a year, said Sunny Saha, a senior vicepresident and managing director of Turner Broadcasting System Asia-Pacific. He added: “We are very proud to have Thailand as the spectacular backdrop for the world’s first Cartoon Network-themed water park. Thailand’s reputation as the Land of Smiles and perfect weather will ensure a memorable visit for guests of all ages.” Liakat Dhanji, Amazon Falls’ chairman, said the Cartoon Network partnership marks Thailand’s first internationally branded water theme park. He said Amazon Falls has used a world-class team of designers and attraction specialists to build the project. Atchaka Sribunruang, secretary-general of the Board of Investment (BoI), said the park will raise the profile of Bang Saray and create jobs. She said the BoI will support the project and offer as much assistance as needed.
It should be pointed out that we have been unable to gain independent corroboration for this story. Meanwhile the Thai Asean News Network has reported that the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) will propose to the government that it aids the construction of a Bt20bn Disneyland Park in Thailand to attract more tourists. ATTA chairman, Siddiwat Cheewarattanaporn, revealed that his group, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and the Thai Hotel Association would make the suggestion when they met Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra at Government House to try to resolve various problems that are affecting the tourism sector. There was no mention of any contact with the Disney people in the report or of where the park might be sited.
The Palm asks for blessing as building starts In preparation for the start of construction on The Palm Wongamat Beach a traditional blessing of the land was carried out at the end of Soi 16. Spiritual people were in attendance to help bring good spirits to the project. As is the custom, the wives of the owners were asked to pray to welcome these good spirits in and guard over the project. In the background cranes and heavy plant gear of the Ital Thai Trevi were standing by in readiness to get underway after pre-construction preparations had been completed. The Palm looks to finish the stunningly located 46- and 26-storey towers three years from now. l Three contracts signed at The Palm – see page 44.
realestate e magazin
Vipharat Fineman, Sukanya Gale and Kazuko Kasemsri Na Ayudhaya pray for the good spirits to bring prosperity to The Palm.
fast facts • Bridgestone Tyres are set to invest Bt19bn (US$617m) in a plant in Amata City manufacturing tyres for off-road construction and mining vehicles. • Electrolux is setting up its first ASEAN-based factory in Rayong manufacturing refrigerators, with 80 per cent of its production for export. • Thailand is the fastest growing market for Ford Motor Company and sold more than 29,000 units last year, up 144 per cent on the previous year. • Thai Oil has announced plans for a Bt300m linear alkyi benzene facility at its oil refinery in Chonburi’s Si Racha district. • Toyota Motor Corporation of Japan announced a Bt6bn investment in increasing its engine production at its Amata Nakorn plant. Expansion will begin immediately, with it being fully online by 2014. – British Chamber of Commerce, March 2012
For the well read ... 04/2012•Issue 131•REm•7
COVERFEATURE
CW Asset build on sales success with the launch of a new project B oosted by the big sales successes at their Bang Saray Beach Condominium project, CW Asset have launched a second development – CW Ocean View Condominium at Bang Saray. Ocean View will be an eightstorey single block development with many extras included to appeal to buyers. It will be built just a short distance away from the company’s first two eight-storey block 150-unit project where construction has already started. Ocean View will be 250 metres from the beach and some 60 per cent of the units will enjoy a sea view. A significant difference between the Bang Saray Beach Condominium and Ocean View is that the units in the latter will come fully furnished. Prefer furnished A spokesman for CW Asset said: “Current market trends suggest that people prefer to buy furnished units. They seem to feel it is worth paying a little
How the company’s first development – Bang Saray Beach condominium – will look.
12•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
“All luxury units will have balcony with glass railing and are fully furnished with curtains, clothes washer and dryer, air cons in each room, hot water, glass shower door, water-saving bathroom fixtures, refrigerator, microwave, cook top with exhaust hood, kitchen cabinets with sink, queen-size bed, wardrobe, desk with chair, sofa, dining table with chairs and LCD TVs in each room.”
extra to save the hassle of furnishing it themselves.” When launched two years ago, the unfurnished Bang Saray Beach Condominium had a studio start price of Bt750,000; the fully furnished Ocean View one-bedroom units will still start at less than Bt1m. CW Ocean View Condominium at Bang Saray will offer 70 one-bedroom 30sqm and
36sqm units starting at Bt990,000. Two-bedroom apartments of 60 and 72 sqm can be formed by combining them. Ocean View features a rooftop fitness centre and infinity pool with 270° views over the bay. The spokesman added: “In this new project we want to create a resort environment with everything included for the room furnishings and appliances.
Signing up He added: “During pre-sale registration we have had more than 100 customers sign up to reserve units.” CW Asset will be opening a sales office with showroom at the project site. The company also has a sales office for both projects at 212/13 North Pattaya Road in Naklua. l Address for the Ocean View project is 72/3 Moo 2, Tedsaban 5/6, Bang Saray, Sattahip, Chonburi 20250. For more information visit the website at www.CWoceanCondo.com or email at CWoceanCondo@cwasset.com
An architect’s rendering of the CW Ocean View Condominium from the East side and (below) a close-up view of the rooftop.
04/2012•Issue 131•REm•13
SPECIALFEATURE
This Ford Fiesta Sport is top prize in a free draw for buyers on 5-5-55
All the fives are a good omen for Atlantis buyers I
n Thai the number five in pronounced “ha”, well, 5555, should be a good omen for a lot of laughs and fun at the Atlantis One Million Baht Give-Away party, which is scheduled for 5 May 2555 (according to the Thai calendar). Anyone who knows Thai and Chinese cultures will understand the importance of dates to the Thai people. They often organise business meetings, product launches and even deliveries around the lucky days according to the advice from monks, the stars and so on. So it may come as no surprise that this day was chosen by the Blue Sky developers of Atlantis 18•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
to celebrate with a lavish party at Centara Grand Mirage Resort (CGMR). The date is auspicious in itself and May will also signal the expected completion of sales and the start of inserting the foundations of the project. Everyone who has bought a unit in Atlantis before the 5th of next month will be in with a chance of winning one of the great prizes on offer. Special Edition top prize The main prize is a Ford Fiesta Sport, Special Edition, worth Bt720,000. In addition there will be three different Honda motorbikes, Apple iPads, some
Samsung flatscreen TVs, gift vouchers to use at CGRM and quality bottles of wine. Blue Sky, are promising a great evening. The fun begins about 7pm at CGMR and there will be entertainment and music throughout the evening. Atlantis Condo Resort Pattaya’s sales office opened in last October and more than 900 of the 1,038 units have been sold in just six months. Construction starts this month and first concrete foundations are due to be added in May. Spokesman for the project, marketing manager, Charlie Warner said: “A combination of good location close to the beach,
together with amazing on-site facilities, combined with excellent design and competitive pricing and payment plans, made this project an attractive proposition for both Thai and foreign buyers.” Fully furnished Atlantis unit prices started from Bt1.3m for 34.5 sqm one bedroom units, up to Bt4.9m for 69 sqm 2 bedroom unit, all fully furnished. Facilities include a full-size wooden galleon that will form the clubhouse and sundeck, there are five Jacuzzis, water slides, children’s submarine playground, a huge waterfall and wooden footbridge across the 2,600 sqm swimming pool.
The galleon clubhouse and the wooden footbridge are just two of the special features that owners at Atlantis will enjoy.
04/2012•Issue 131•REm•19
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SHOWHOUSESHOWCASE
Green Field Villas 4 Nongmaikan 3, Nongprue
Quality, value and tranquility on the Dark Side
I
f plenty of space and value for money are high on your list of priorities, then the ‘Dark Side’ east of Sukhumvit is definitely the place to head for. Add a splash of luxury and you have all the ingredients that make up Green Field Villas 4, the latest small, but exclusive, development from English architect Paul Barrett. With just 28 units, Green Field Villas 4 is in a quiet location 400 metres north of Wat Sutthawat at the eastern end of Soi Nern Plub Wann. Three different house types are available – two bungalow styles and a two-storey house, each with sufficient space for a private swimming pool, although there is a communal pool on the 15-rai site. The two-storey Type A detached house offers a huge 256 sqm of living space and comprises four bedrooms, five bathrooms and a granite staircase with stainless steel handrail. As with all properties on Green Field Villas 4, the house has a fitted kitchen with appliances, uPVC windows, vinyl guttering, a living/ dining area, ceramic tiled floors, Cotto sanitary ware, veneered doors with quality fittings, CPAC tiled roof with foil insulation and a covered carport for two cars. The larger of the two bungalows, Type B, has three bedrooms and three bathrooms – one a master bedroom en suite – in 178 sqm of living space. The smaller Type C bungalow has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, one an en suite, in 148 sqm. 22•REm•Issue 131• 04/2012
Prices start at Bt7,538,000 for a two-storey house on a 129 sqw plot, Bt6,868,000 for the larger Type B bungalow and Bt5,968,000 for a Type C bungalow, both on 144 sqw. Because of the high reputation and popularity of Green Field’s three previous developments, Green Field Villas 4 has sold quicker than expected. As a result, the company has abandoned speculative development in favour of building to order. The advantage for the buyer, of course, is greater flexibility when it comes to floor plans and design. Electronic gates Houses are being constructed with the superior Q-Con blocks for durability and are equipped with an injection system for pest control and electronic gates with remote operation. Security is further enhanced by a high perimeter wall, 24-hour guards and CCTV. Communal facilities include a clubhouse, complete with gymnasium and large swimming pool, and a landscaped park. Large plots and wide roads heighten the sense of spaciousness and underground electrics eliminate the overhead clutter which is prevalent in many other villages. With Pattaya town centre less than 15 minutes away by car or motorbike, Green Field Villas 4 is likely to prove a big attraction to families seeking a quieter suburban life with space to grow without paying a king’s ransom.
04/2012•Issue 131•REm•23
SHOWHOUSESHOWCASE factfile Development: Green Field Villas 4. Location: Nongmaikan 3, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chon Buri 20150. Near Wat Sutthawat and Nongprue Stadium at the eastern end of Soi Nern Plub Waan. Developer: Green Field Development Co Ltd, 311/6 Moo 6, Soi Pornprapanimitr 15, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150. Prices: Type C detached bungalows from Bt5,968,000 (144 sqw); Type B detached bungalows from Bt6,868,000; (144sqw); two-storey Type A detached houses from Bt7,538,000 (129 sqw). What’s also included: • Double Q-Con block construction • Fitted kitchen • Kitchen appliances • uPVC windows • Vinyl guttering • Landscaped garden • Underground electrics • Remote-controlled electric gate • Covered carport • Pest control injection system • Hot water system • Veneered doors and cupboards • Stainless steel stair rail (Type A house) • 24-hour security with CCTV • Foil insulation in roof • Chandelier • Clubhouse • Communal gymnasium • Large communal swimming pool • Landscaped park Further information T: +66 (0)38 732 280 F: +66 (0)38 731 459 E: greenfield@greenfieldvillas.com W: www.greenfieldvillas.com
24•REm•Issue 131• 04/2012
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newsREPORT
Porchland launch sixth project as others sell out
The proposed entrance to The FeelTure by Porchland VI.
P
orchland Group is maintaining their momentum and are looking to close the sales of all their first five projects within the next three-four months. Their current projects are Porchland 1-2, The Blue Residence by Porchland 3, The Time by Porchland 4 and La Santir by Porchland 5. Porchland can rightfully claim to be one of the most successful developers in Pattaya with the concept of “ready to live in, just bring your luggage”. Their units come fully furnished in a modern style and are priced at an affordable level. A spokesman said: “These attributes make the projects under the Porchland Group name 40•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
worthwhile investments. At Porchland, we make sure that our customers get the best things. “Customers’ want quality residences and we supply that need. We continue to improve our projects to ensure that our customers receive unit which is worth the money. We provide easy payment plans which is one of our strengths. At Porchland, we are highly confident about the quality of our project.” Pleasing feedback He continued: “We are very proud of our success in providing the right products to our customers and we are very pleased with the feedback we get. Hence, we continue with creative ideas to make our projects more
than just a residence. It’s not just about the modern interior design, we also consider every part of the project to make it functional. The prominent character of our projects is a vast communal area for maximum relaxation of our owners.” Porchland’s projects are harmoniously designed to integrate with their surrounding environment. They seek a noncrowded concept with efficient airflow. The spokesman added: “We provide 24-hour CCTV, security guards at entrance and key card entry system to ensure the maximum security for our customers. “We have had a positive feedback from our customers
after the launch of all our projects and we still receive them. This is the proof of our reliability. We will continue developing our projects to give the best value to the customers.” Latest project Porchland Group is now planning to launch a new project under the name of “The FeelTure by Porchland VI” the name being a combination of “feeling” and “nature”. The spokesman concluded: “We welcome potential customers to visit our new project or our existing ones at our sales offices or visit our website at www.porchland.com. We hope to have you as part of the Porchland family.”
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newsREPORT
Three contracts at The Palm project management The Palm Wongamat Beach is pleased to announce that the project has gained EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) approval following delays when flooding in Bangkok halted all planning department work. This means building work has been able to start without further delay. On top of this, the developers have appointed Cornerstone, one of Thailand’s most respected project management companies, to carry out the three-year construction contract. Richard Bell, Cornerstone’s managing director, said: “I am delighted my company has been appointed project managers for such a prestigious project. “We have a strong presence in Bangkok and it is good to see Pattaya growing at a pace and Cornerstone now being a strong apart of Pattaya’s real estate expansion.” Representatives from the developers and the project managers are pictured (left) after the signing ceremony.
sole agents Following an incredible year of sales at CB Richard Ellis, one of Thailand’s leading property consulting agencies, have had their contract extended by further 12 months by the developers at The Palm. CBRE re-entered the Pattaya market after a few years away with The Palm as their first development in December 2010. Since then, they have successfully sold 75 per cent of The Palm, which represents more than Bt2bn worth of sales totalling 421 units. Most recently they scooped up five awards at the Thailand Property Awards and have expanded their interests in Pattaya with a further three high-profile projects. The continuing relationship between CBRE and The Palm is testament to their mutually beneficial working relationship. Simon Swain, partner in The Palm, said: “We are delighted to renew our contract with CBRE and look forward to a strong further 12 months of sales.”
piling contractors Construction work on The Palm Wongamat Beach began late in February after Ital Thai Trevi were awarded the piling contract for the twin towers. Ital Thai Trevi are one of Thailand’s best known and well respected piling specialists. They have undertaken many of Bangkok’s high-profile projects as well as some here in Pattaya. “This will be our first time working with Ital Thai Trevi and we are looking forward to building a strong relationship with them over the coming months,” said Winston Gale, codeveloper in The Palm. The piling contract is for five months with above-ground construction continuing afterwards. August will therefore be the milestone for the main construction company to start work on the main structures. The name of the main builders is still to be announced. 44•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
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SPECIALFEATURE
New condo has water, water everywhere ...
features l Large L-shaped rooftop infinity pool with children’s section, water slides and various water features; l Another, large ground-floor pool with landscaped islands, fountains and a relaxing pool bar; l Rooftop botanical garden and sun-deck; l Fully-equipped rooftop gymnasium suite with sauna facilities; l In-house gourmet restaurant and coffee shop; l Free wireless internet throughout; l Luxurious lobby area with hotel-like reception and concierge services; l Access-controlled covered parking plus 24-hour security with CCTV. 46•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
T
he Water Park Condominium is the latest addition to the Heights Holdings portfolio. With pools on both the rooftop and ground floor plus several other aquatic features it pretty much named itself. A boutique development on Pratumnak Hill, Water Park occupies a land area of 1.49 rai. It will be an eight-storey condominium, with 210 units comprising 25 and 26 sqm studios, and a variety of onebedroom apartments from 35 to 56 sqm. Combination units The units are modular in design, meaning that multiple apartments can be combined, without extra charge to create larger, two-bedroom options. The development enjoys a stunning tropical-green location, nestled between Soi 4 and 5 in Pratumnak in a very quiet area, surrounded only by a few
townhouses and villas. It is only five minutes from Walking Street on one side or Jomtien Beach on the other. Fantastic views With no neighbouring buildings above three storeys, Water Park offers fantastic ocean and Koh Larn views from the 4th floor and upwards. A spokesman for HH said: “Panoramic sea views on higher floors are simply stunning. Water Park is similar in building design to Laguna Bay 2, another of our successful offerings in Pratumnak. “It’s L-shaped, with sea view units looking outwards to the west and north-west. All units on the inside of the condominium overlook the large ground-floor pool area. So the vast majority of units in the Water Park offer excellent views. “It also boasts luxurious interior design elements,
with optimal use of space and first-class European standard fixtures and fittings, very similar in interior design to our acclaimed Pratumnak high-rise, The Peak Towers.” The spokesman added: “Apartments in the Water Park Condominium are assured superb capital appreciation between now and December 2013 completion. Furniture package “It’s an ideal resale or rental investment with studios starting from just Bt1.39m and two-bedroom apartments from just Bt2.09m. “There are superb promotional payment terms with 80 per cent payable on key for Thai ownership and a complimentary furniture package with every apartment sold.” l For further information please email info@heightsholdings.com or alternatively call 089 092 1122.
04/2012•Issue 131•REm•47
newsREPORT Craig Muldoon started in financial services in 1987 with Refuge Assurance in the UK. Some 12 years later, he decided to set up Westminster Financial Management, an Independent Financial Adviser practice in Devon. He has achieved the latest qualifications set by the UK’s Financial Services Authority and is therefore qualified to provide holistic financial planning. He also holds a mortgage advice qualification. In September 2010 he moved to Thailand to further his development and joined the Business Class Group in their Financial Services Department. He can be contacted at info@fsplatinum.com.
A recession-proof investment
H
igh yields? A totally “handsoff” investment? Strong nationwide rental demand? Income generating? Student accommodation has it all. There is a widespread difference of opinion regarding what will happen in the residential and commercial property market right now in the UK. One thing that few experts disagree on is the potential for both capital growth and surety of high rentals that comes with well-located student accommodation in key cities with prestigious universities. Furthermore, as always happens in times of financial downturn and higher unemployment, student numbers increase, providing the investor with a recession-proof investment. Over the past six years rental incomes in this sector have increased at five per cent per year, in contrast to 0.6 per cent for the commercial market as a whole, and the occupancy rates for student accommodation currently sit between 97-100 per cent. Compared to residential tenants who only sign up for six-month contracts, this provides incredible stability that is very hard to achieve in the global economic climate, which has made this opportunity so popular with both UK and overseas investors. A passive income and hands-off investment Most property investment is rarely as passive or hands-off as we would like. However, by working with a very experienced and established management company that specialises in the student accommodation market, this provides you with that truly ‘armchair’ investment where you can sit back, relax and see your regular monthly income hit your bank account. 48•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
‘‘
By working with a very experienced and established management company that specialises in the student accommodation market, this provides you with that truly ‘armchair’ investment where you can sit back, relax and see your regular monthly income hit your bank account.
’’
By craig muldoon Student accommodation has become an asset of recommendations for my company’s investors, whether they’re looking to add to their existing property portfolio, or if this is their first property investment. Our reasoning for this is quite simple: it’s a low risk, high yielding and totally “hands-off” investment. Perfect time to take advantage With UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) reporting a 12 per cent rise in applications for 2010-2011 and a huge national shortage of student accommodation, this is still a perfect time to take advantage of current investment conditions. With high rental yields (typically between 6-10 per cent gross, dependent upon the property type) and totally handsoff, hassle-free ownership, student accommodation ticks all the boxes for investors. Knight Frank have reported through their own independent research, that only 50 per cent of all students in the UK have access to high-quality purpose-built student accommodation. This figure drops dramatically to 20 per cent when you compare the student purpose-built housing ratio in London alone. This means there are nearly 100,000 students in London who do not have access to purpose-built student accommodation, helping to create a huge demand in a market with very limited supply, ensuring rents remain high and your property stays tenanted. Alongside I list 10 reason why this is our investment of choice.
the 10 plusses l Cashflow positive, long-term investment. Typical rents are significantly higher for student properties than a comparable BTL property in the same city. l More students attending universities, creating a solid and sustainable demand. Student numbers are set to continue to rise in coming years. l Minimal voids – tenanted for almost all of the year and you typically know seven months in advance that your property is tenanted for the next academic year due to pre-lettings. l Hassle-free investment – private halls are managed by on-site management teams who will handle all bills and ground rent, meaning you only have one management fee to pay. l Rental income has increased by five per cent each year for the past six years in the student accommodation property sector. l Student property has continued to be one of the most resilient investment sectors in the UK. l New build properties available – houses and/or flats, as well as refurbished homes. l Competitive finance available – by equity releasing from your current assets the purchase becomes 100 per cent funded. l Exit strategies – although we recommend student accommodation as providing long-term income investment, provable high income on a property makes it much more desirable to other investors. l All of this helps to reduce the risk to the investor!
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American journalist and property investor Bart Walters has been living in Thailand for 10 years, first in Bangkok, then in Phuket and now in Pattaya. Bart publishes his inside views on Pattaya and its property market in various print and online publications including International Living and Escape America. He can be contacted at bkkbart@gmail.com
Goin’ South II – the Real Thailand By bart walters
S
tick around these parts a while and you most certainly hear some old Asia hands lament: “Well Pattaya’s not really Thailand, is it?” I am from Orlando in the US, the very definition of a tourist town. And, I can tell you, it hurts when someone from somewhere else says, “Well, Orlando’s not really Florida is it?” Of course Pattaya is Thailand … you’ve just got to get out of the beer bar and find it! Last month I found part of Pattaya-land that is really Thailand when I ventured to the extreme southern beaches in Ban Amphur and Bang Saray. In Goin’ South I, I rediscovered parts of this coast I had forgotten about. Last Sunday I went back for another taste. Since school just ended for the local kids, I figured it was better to get out early as the beaches were sure to get crowded. Bang Saray beach in the morning is magic. If you’ve ever wondered how Thai people enjoy the 50•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
beach, this is where you’ll see it. At first there were just a couple of young Thai guys who had backed their pick-up truck under the palm trees, sipping their morning coffee and playing some mellow reggae music. Next to arrive was a family of six, spreading out mats under the coconut trees and grazing on a variety of spicy looking dishes. Cool music, kids splashing in the water … good food; that’s what Thai people do at the beach. What do they catch? The closer I walked to the main pier, the more I found what Bang Saray is really all about … fishing. Four fishermen were standing around bartering and trading their morning catch. I’ve always wondered what they catch out there and the answer is … everything. Sharks, grouper, sea bass … tuna … you name it, they catch it. Bang Saray’s long concrete pier stretches out into the Gulf of Thailand and appears to be crusted with colorful barnacles on each side. Fishing
Looking back at Bang Saray from the end of its pier.
‘‘ If you have
ever wondered how Thai
people enjoy
the beach, this (Bang Saray) is where you’ll see it.
boats of all sizes and colour cling to the sides like tropical Christmas ornaments. As I walked to the end of the pier I felt the place waking up. Murmurs of music creeping out from the windows, the smell of khao thom wafting through the air, Bang Saray pier was coming to life. Walking in from the boats I got a full wide angle view of the pier, the boats and the big temple in the background. I challenge anyone to convince me this isn’t “Real Thailand”. Making a note to chow down at Rimhad Seafood for lunch, I decided to investigate a couple of the property developments located on the beach. My first stop was “Le Beach”, pretty much in the middle of Bang Saray Beach. Le Beach is a housing development that encompasses about 65 villas. The style is best described as Bali-Thai with modern amenities. The lots are slightly different sizes, and many can accommodate a swimming pool should the owner desire. Le Beach features only one size and style of house. The land area
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averages 93 square wah (about 375 square feet), and the house footprint is 220 square feet. The construction appears to be pretty good, but I must say that the houses are quite close together. Strategic garden design helps to create some privacy. The interiors are finished and designed to fit a wide variety of tastes. The colours are light and bright in a tropical modern motif. While this project appears to be aimed at attracting foreigners, I would guess that the buyers are more than 50 per cent Thai. I have to guess because the only sales person working on a Sunday was a young lady who spoke no English and had no ear for a farang speaking Thai. Her entire sales pitch was to politely hand me a photocopy of the price list. The total price is Bt7.95m. Probably the three most positive selling points of Le Beach are the professional security, the proximity to the beach and the reasonable price. Next I wandered into another Bang Saray beachfront development called Talay Sawan. This place was a definite step up in design and finish. Talay Sawan is a small development with 29 villas set on 11 Rai featuring properties ranging from 300-700 sqm. Prices start at Bt9.45m. Higher standard The houses definitely appear to be a higher standard of construction than many I have seen. Recessed air conditioners, central hot water heaters and indirect lighting are some features than stand out. All the pumps and noisy machinery one needs to run a house are located in one convenient and sound-dampening engineering 52•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
Le Beach – one house style and reasonably priced. Talay Sawan – photo taken from the outside because they would not allow any to be taken from inside.
‘‘ These houses (at Talay Sawan)
definitely
appear to be a
higher standard of construction than many I’ve seen.
room; another feature we don’t normally see in these parts. The rooms are open and spacious with plenty of windows for natural light. The style is modern tropical with a touch of Thai accents. Prudent use of some really nice natural materials like hardwoods and stone give these places a relaxing closeto-nature feel. Interiors are well coordinated and complete in the show unit. By design these houses caress their best feature; the sparkling saltwater swimming pools. This development also attempts to attract foreign investors, but according to the pleasant young sales lady, about half of the buyers are Thais from Bangkok. Security for this project is quite prickly, even forbidding me to take pictures. When I left, my lasting impression was one of surprise. I was surprised at the quality and design of these villas and equally stunned by the amateurish marketing and sales effort. Then again, I suppose it is better to have a really great product and a lackluster brochure than the other way around. With more than half the units sold already, Talay Sawan should have no problems selling out despite their lack of sales prowess. Property shopping makes me hungry, so I retraced my steps back to the pier and Rimhad Seafood Restaurant. Without a doubt, the pierside open air Thai seafood joint is my favourite venue to relax, sip on a cold beer and watch the world go by. The raw oysters were fresh and tasty. The just-alive-until-a-few-minutes-ago sea bass was cooked to perfection in a sweet and spicy sauce.
By now the weekend crowd had started to trickle in and several tables with large Thai families were in full consumption mode. Giant kettles of tom yum goong bubbled away in the middle of tables along with a dazzling array of whole fish and curry crab dishes. Observing the controlled chaos of a big Thai family plowing through mountains of seafood is a lesson in social behaviour. They seem to have a special ability to squeeze the most enjoyment from an afternoon of eating and drinking with the family. Again, I challenge anyone taking in such a spectacle to state with any conviction that this isn’t “Real Thailand”. Never considered Belly full and refocused on property hunting, I found myself meandering North on Sukhumvit towards Ban Amphur. On the west side an impressive façade and front gate drew me in to a housing development I’d never considered before, Baan Talay. I pulled up to the guard shack and requested directions to the sales office. After 15 minutes of scratchy walky-talky conversations between the security guard and whomever he was trying to get permission from, he agreed I could enter. But, not without taking my driver’s licence, writing down my plate number and having me fill out a visitor entry form. With my visitor’s placard prominently displayed, I followed the frantic hand signals of security guard number two to the sales office. When I parked, the uniformed guard opened my door and
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proceeded to shadow me like a bad smell. I felt like I was being guarded by a top defensive player in a basketball game … when I picked up my foot he put his down in the vacated spot. This overzealous behaviour continued all the way into the showroom. A polite English-speaking sales lady proceeded to show me the model of the project under a glass bubble. The 68 houses used in the model are modern, modified Cape Cod style; very popular on the East Coast of the US. All the houses are two storeys with swimming pools. The whole project is built on a gradual slope towards the sea, so I’m quite sure all of the second storey balconies have excellent views. The sales girl handed me the layout of the project, colour coded by which land plots were sold and available. Roughly two-thirds of the units appear to be sold. The prices shown for remaining units reflect a price range of Bt75,000-120,000 per sqm. I have no idea if this is a good deal as there is no show model to look at, nor was I allowed to even look around.
Part of the walkway down to the observation room at Krissida Golden.
Few farangs The sales associate told me that most of the owners were Thai from Bangkok and not many farang were living there. With the security guard still breathing down my neck, I couldn’t help thinking perhaps farang were not welcome either. I received no brochure, no business card … not even directions to a website. The security guard remained all over me like white on rice all the way to my car. As I pulled away from the guard shack, I hung out the window take a picture of the Baan Talay sign on the entrance wall. The security guard ran
gorgeous
The wide “V” that forms Baan Samprasong.
‘‘
54•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
For those in
the middle the view is a two-
for-one affair as you look over
the manicured gardens and swimming pool out onto the golden sand and aquamarine Gulf of Thailand.
down the drive blowing his whistle in a dead sprint. His intentions remain unknown as I pulled away quickly. While this project appears to be five-star quality, I’ll never know because the staff was practicing business prevention this Sunday. If you’ve lived here long enough you’ll know, that’s “Real Thailand” too. Slightly discouraged, I headed towards Ban Ampur Beach and remembered my promise from Goin’ South I. There are several intriguing older condominium developments in this hidden little fishing hamlet that warrant investigation. On Sunday I looked at three older buildings that could fit neatly into the categories of “The Good, The Bad and The Ugly”. The Good: Baan Samprasong is a sprawling low-rise on the north end of Ban Amphur Beach near the lighthouse restaurant. The complex is comprised of a plethora of different sized condominiums and two-storey houses. The security is adequate and the grounds immaculately kept. The condo building right on the beach is in a wide “V” shape and every unit gets a spectacular sunset view directly on the best part of this quiet little beach. The corner units would seem to be the most desirable, but for those in the middle, the view is a two-for-one affair as you look over the manicured gardens and gorgeous swimming pool leading out onto the golden sand and aqua-marine Gulf of Thailand. With covered balconies big enough to play badminton on, Baan Samprasong residents are sure to spend more time outside than in. The units I saw were spacious and open. The friendly manager showed me a couple that were for sale, but
was more proud of the three condos and one house currently under renovation. A couple of new owners and some older inhabitants were giving their ample units big face-lifts. The presence of those big black work trucks from Euro Design Furniture in the parking lot is testament to the quality of these makeovers. Like no place else Units in Baan Samprasong are all over the place price-wise, dependent on condition. Units in need of work are going for between Bt75,000-90,000 per sqm. Renovated units, if you can find any for sale, will be priced more than Bt100,000 per sqm. While these units aren’t exactly cheap, they simply don’t make them like this anymore. The building is gorgeous, well maintained and located like no place else on this coast. Any reasonable purchase in this complex would be a sound investment in my opinion. The Bad: Krissida Golden is a towering high-rise on the south end of Ban Amphur Beach. From a distance, this place really sticks out and is quite impressive. Once you motor up the tropical garden drive to the building, you may still be impressed, but start to see some of this grand old dam’s wrinkles. Security is non-existent. In the middle of a Sunday afternoon no one was in attendance in the lobby. I strolled around the pool area and gardens taking pictures unmolested. The gardens and grounds are as well kept as I’ve seen. Krissida is built on the top of a slope that rises about 25 metres above the beach. There is a long, shaded walkway leading down to an observation room stretching out over the beach. The
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view is breathtaking. This part of the beach is totally uninhabited. Then again, I noticed that the whole place seems to be void of humans. A lone sun-lover was perched under an umbrella reading and sipping a mineral water poolside. After 20 minutes of wandering, I saw no one but a couple of security guards eating somtum under a tree. I rode the elevator up to the 31st floor to see the legendary swimming pool someone told me about. To be sure, this dome-covered round swimming pool hanging 31 floors above the beach is where I’d spend most of my time if I lived at Krissida. And, I’d have it all to myself as there was nobody enjoying that view either. Standing in the front parking lot I gave this building the once over visually. I could see many units with boarded up windows or remnants of some half -finished repairs on the balcony. The lobby was barren except for some plastic chairs scattered around behind the reception desk. I could see empty spaces adjoining the cavernous lobby area that had once housed coffee shops or other tenant service-oriented businesses. The place was a ghost building.
A paint job is planned – and, boy, does it need one – the STS Beach Resort. That said, those who live there can enjoy views such as the one top right.
Inner voice My inner real estate investor voice was whispering: “There is something you don’t know going on here.” The place wreaked of potential and bad management … trust me I know what that smells like. I did manage to find a price list of units for sale in a stack of papers on the reception desk. The size of the units available ranged from 78 sqm on up to 196qm. The prices are all
regard to
‘‘
56•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
All three of the
older buildings I looked at
started out about the
same time and just took different paths. With real estate developments that’s ‘Real Thailand’ too.
over the place and went as low as Bt45,000 per sqm up to Bt85,000. I have no idea what condition any were in as there was nobody present from building management to show them to me. Krissida Golden is intriguing if nothing else. The management is obviously lacking, but there is simply no way to know how bad it is until speaking to someone who owns a unit there … a task that, at least on this Sunday, was a real challenge. The Ugly: STS Beach Resort was the last building I looked at. Sandwiched between Krissida Golden and Baan Samprasong, it looks like a sickly soi dog, shivering cold on the beach. Some 15 years of wind, rain and sea breeze have blasted just about every flake of paint off this once proud 17-storey mid-rise building. If you squint your eyes you can almost imagine how cool it was in 1997 … just before the Thai Baht took a dive and yanked the rug out from under all the seed investors. Still STS survives and boasts the most gorgeous sunset views in Ban Amphur. To be sure, the building is old and ugly, but when I arrived the security was awake, reception staff cheerful and the swimming pool clean. The elevators worked, the garden relatively well maintained, and common areas were clean, including the private walkway down to the beach. STS has a secret enclave of foreigners who have purchased units at less than Bt20,000 per sqm and then totally renovated them. Since the building is in disarray, renovators are free to do pretty much what they want. Some owners install
storefront windows … some enclose the small round bedroom balconies to make Jacuzzi tubs … others reclaim portions of the huge balconies as part of their indoor living room. But now the rumour mill has it that things are about to turn around at this diamond-in-the-rough. After the Bangkok floods, many of the original owners reconnected with STS and have banded together to force a management change. The building is currently getting a much needed paint job. Things are looking up. Rock bottom prices Every imaginable size and condition of unit is available at STS. From threebedroom bare shells to partiallyfinished studios; the prices are rock bottom and the view simply cannot be beaten. For you property investors with an adventurous streak, STS may be worth looking at. All three of the older buildings I looked at started out about the same time and just took different paths. With regard to real estate developments ... well … that’s “Real Thailand” too. Due diligence is your only friend. So, I spent a beautiful Sunday doing the two things I like to do best; eating seafood at the beach and looking at property. And I did all of it without driving any further north than Na Jomtien. Later that evening I got a call from an old friend I usually see at a popular brunch venue on Sundays. He was concerned about my absence and asked: “Hey, where were you all day?” I just chuckled and replied: “I took a drive down South … to see Real Thailand.” Bart Walters
Michael’s “Top 5” Countdown 5. View Talay 2A, Jomtien – 1 BR, 86 sqm, 3.5 Million Why I like it – I know what you’re thinking; why View Talay 2A?
This spacious 1 BR unit is on a high floor, has excellent sea views, and is tastefully fit out and furnished. Tray ceilings, teak wood appointments, and exceptional furniture make this a winner. Basic units on lower floors sell for higher prices; exceptional value.
4. Northshore, Pattaya Beach – 1 BR, 68 sqm, 6.5 Million Why I like it – Northshore Condo is arguably the most prestigious
address on Pattaya Beach. Well-maintained, top security and superb location make this a winner. Fully and tastefully furnished, sold in Thai Company name. Pricing less than 100,000 per sqm is almost unheard of in this building.
3. Nova Mirage Penthouse – 3 BR, 315 sqm, 13 Million Why I like it – This is one of the more popular buildings in
Wongamat because it is close to the beach and prices are quite reasonable. Open living area, spacious bed rooms, large balconies and excellent sea views from most rooms. Where else can you get a duplex penthouse with seaview at 41,269 per sqm?
2. The Park, off Jomtien 2nd Rd – 2 BR, 210 sqm, 20 Million Why I like it – This penthouse unit overlooking the pond & gardens is an exceptional property. Tiles imported from Italy, custom made furniture, designer kitchen, Smart home system and finest quality furnishings. 70% financing available with 30% down payment. This is a must view home if you want the best.
1. Northpoint, Naklua 16 – 3 BR, 133 sqm, 24,999,000 THB Why I like it – The buyer did an exceptional job in fitting out this
South Tower corner unit. Open floor plan to take fullest advantage of the stunning views. Gourmet kitchen, electronic blinds and top quality furniture. Corner unit on a mid-level floor provides sweeping, unblocked views of Pattaya Bay.
Call Michael at 089-685-2198
or e-mail michael@bigmangoproperties.com Michael Barricelli
www.bigmangoproperties.com
The “Two Norths” of Pattaya – Northpoint & Northshore Northpoint is a 2-tower high rise along a wide stretch of
Wongamat Beach. 5-star all the way with all the finest amenities. Customized to enhance the layout & sea views.
Feature – 3 BR corner unit with 180 degree views – 24.99 M
• 3 bed rooms, 133 sqm, 2 full & 1 half bath rooms • Corner unit positioned on 21st floor • Stunning, uninterrupted 180-degree sea views • Significant modifications made to open up the living area and maximize the views • Designer kitchen with hidden refrigerator & dishwasher, convection oven & “soft close” cabinets
Northshore is an iconic exclusive residence steps to Pattaya Beach. If you expect only the best combined with a central location, nothing can compare to this fine property.
Feature – 1 BR North facing on high floor – Only 6.5 Million
• 1 bed room, 68 sqm, & 1 bath room • Very high floor facing North; “cool” side • This is the real view from your balcony! • Fully furnished, fitted kitchen & all appliances • Priced at only 95,588 per sqm; very rare to find anything for less than 120,000 per sqm. • Owned in Thai Company name
Call 089-685-2198
or e-mail michael@bigmangoproperties.com
www.bigmangoproperties.com
Prices From 2.7MB Tel. 038 252 996
www.thelegendpattaya.com
newsREPORT
fast facts The website TripAdvisor. com has issued a list of its top 10 beaches to visit in Asia. No less than seven of them are in Thailand. Top spot went to Boracay in the Philippines closely followed by Koh Phi Phi Don, the beach made famous in the film of the same name. Next was Ko Lanta (3); Ko Phangan (4); Koh Tao (5); Kata Beach (6); Candolim in India (7); Chaeweng (8); Nusa Dua in Indonesia (9) and Bophut (10) completes the list.
The Vineyard nominated for Asian property ‘Oscar’ The Vineyard developments near Lake Mabprachan are in line for yet another major property award. The company behind The Vineyard, Bravo Thai Lifestyle, is one of three Thai companies nominated in the Asia Pacific region’s “Property Single Unit” class of the prestigious International Property Awards. In each of the past two years the company has been highly commended in the Thailand Property Awards. “It’s important to point out that we have been chosen from the entire country,” said Bravo’s boss, Terrence (Terry) Allen Collins. “Our successes in the Thailand Property Awards were just about the Eastern Seaboard.” Terry values his company’s inclusion in these latest awards highly. “I regard them as the ‘Oscars’ of global real estate. Just to be nominated and invited to attend the awards ceremony is a great honour for us,” he said.
Bravo will be represented at the awards which will be revealed at a gala presentation dinner held at the end of a two-day Property & Hospitality Summit at the JW Marriott Hotel in Kuala Lumpur on April 26-27. Covering residential and commercial categories, the prime focus of the International Property Awards is to seek out the best real estate professionals across the globe. Asia Pacific region The KL ceremony will be specifically for the Asia Pacific region. Winners from AP will compete with other top companies from Europe, Africa, the Americas and Arabia later in the year to be confirmed as the world’s best. Last year the AP region scooped 13 of the world’s best awards and this time the region has produced a record number of entries from 17 different countries. No other region has come
close to matching this feat in the 18-year history of the awards. Stuart Shield, president of the International Property Awards, said: “We were amazed and delighted by the enormous number of entries received for the Asia Pacific region this year. “The standard was also extremely high. Any company that wins one of these awards will have shown exceptional levels of professionalism and competence in their respective field. We look forward to seeing how many more ‘world’s best’ accolades the region can win when competing against the rest of the globe.” In an article printed in this magazine two months ago we quoted Bravo’s Terry Collins with reference to the Thailand Property Awards as saying: “If we were to get an award we would regard that as the icing on the cake.” We wish Terry and every company representing Thailand all the best in KL.
Matrix look to the middle of the city The Matrix Group which has made a name for itself with developments in the Pratumnak and Jomtien areas has now turned its attention to a more central site with the announcement of its new City Center Residence project. The development will sit on 4.5 rai between Third Road and Soi Arunothai opposite where the old X-zyte disco used to be. Its three eight-storey buildings will offer studio, one- and two-bedroom fully furnished units. They may have a different location but pre-launch prices will start at less than Bt1m. Our main picture shows the restaurant and gym area which will overlook the large pool. We hope to carry a more detailed report about this project in our May issue. 64•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
MYSTERYcolumnist
This month our insider takes a frank look at the pros and cons of a developer throwing a launch party. It’s not all about who lays on the best food and the most drink. But sometimes it helps! Also, he uncovers a little on the vexed subject of commissions ...
Parties – a case of w(h)ine and dine! By undercover AGENT
‘‘ No matter
how many
beers were supplied, the fact
was that we could see the Pictures from the Grand Opening of the Centara Grand Residence – a no-expenses-spared party that left brokers convinced this is a project where quality will be a prime consideration (this page and overleaf).
T
he past few years has seen a rapid increase in the number of new condo developments springing up around the city. Like all agents we get invited to a number of opening days and events with developers keen to show off their new projects. In the past three months alone I think I must have been to at least five openings. This got me thinking about the effects, both positive and negative, these open days can have on agents and the eventual client. I came to the conclusion that on many occasions, we agent are a fickle bunch! Of course meeting a customer’s needs is always the most important thing for agents. That said, I think several of us have been known to feel that those needs might best be
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served by developments that have refreshed us with alcohol and food! It’s not just about the food and drink. Often these projects are of a higher quality. I genuinely believe that one developer has the best condo developments. It may be by coincidence, but this developer also has the best launch parties! Several months ago there were two projects opening on the same night. Several agents I know intended to go to both, spending half of their time at each. Poor quality food However, the first project had excellent food and beverages, the second had poor quality food and soft drinks. I think on average, most people stayed around 15 minutes there and returned to the original party, praising their project – based
purely on the food and drink! In fact, after talking to other agents, very few of us could actually remember anything about the second development. Obviously the alcohol has a stronger impact than what we thought! So launch parties can work both ways and have been known to put agents off projects. I recently went to the launch of a condo aimed at the lower end of the market. I was talking to a number of agents and we all thought that the build quality was of a low standard. No matter how many beers were supplied, the fact was that we could see the project being built, and the quality, or rather lack of it, didn’t convince any of us that this was a ‘must sell’ project. A few of us were made to feel uncomfortable when we were
project being built and the quality, or rather the lack of it, didn’t convince any of us that this was a ‘must sell’ project
MYSTERYcolumnist
asked to explain our thoughts to the construction manager. I think embarrassment, if nothing else, may stop us from returning! Most of us have been to projects that, to put it politely, have been overhyped. I have been to projects where what is on offer is clearly not ‘what it says on the tin’! On a number of occasions I have listened to a sales pitch only to come to the conclusion that the developer must think that we have fallen off a Christmas tree or just turned up on the last boat! Timeshare under different name A few months ago we were invited to project that was basically timeshare under a different name. The developer was intent on pushing parts of the project, consistently telling us that it was not timeshare just a partial ownership programme! After realising that some of us were a little suspicious, to say the least, several glasses of wine were quickly sent to our group along with an attractive company representative to bring us more food and drinks and explain the project in greater detail. As far as I am aware, no one has actually taken any customers back to this project but at least we all left well fed and watered! Another problem we frequently come across is visiting projects where there is a sole agent managing sales. No matter how enthusiastic the developer is we often find that, at best, the sole agent is unhelpful, but some cases out and out obstructive.
‘‘
Feel unwelcome A colleague and I went to project around a year ago and were genuinely impressed. We have both been back on a few occasions to be made to feel very unwelcome by the sole agent staff there. In fact I took a friend to the project and he thought that the staff had a major problem with him as they made a point of ignoring him! No matter how good the opening event food or the alcohol was, I think it highly unlikely I will be returning to this development unless a customer specifically wants to go there. A major factor both agents and 68•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
It’s often perceived by clients that we get paid, regardless, and some think they are actually doing us the favour of saving our time by going back to a condo or house on their own.
’’
clients take into consideration before visiting projects is the reputation of the developer. Clients, naturally, don’t want to buy in a project that might not get built, and agents don’t want to show them to avoid embarrassment if something goes wrong. I have been to a few projects where the sales manager has been very cagey about when building will start, what finance is in place and what guarantees the developer is prepared to offer. I went to one where the sales manager actually said if you pay for this condo in full now it means we can continue with the project! Not surprisingly my customer felt that he would be better investing his money in an alternative building! Commission is always a very sore subject with developers, clients and, of course, we agents. It’s often perceived by clients that we get paid, regardless, and some think they are actually doing us the favour of saving our time by going back to a condo or house on their own! In fact this usually results in the agent not getting paid! I wonder how many people would happily do their job without receiving any financial reward? It is not just the clients who are cautious about commission. Many developers do all they can to avoid paying commission, too. Many agents have a good working
relationship with each other, so the word gets around and these developments receive fewer customers from us. Certainly fewer than those developers who make you feel confident you will actually get paid! Other developers have a policy of paying your commission over a sliding scale – apparently some now and some on retirement! These are often the people who come to our office asking why we are not promoting their project! An insight I hope that this has given some of you an insight into how agents actually get paid. Also, I hope it gives you an idea about what influences our decisions with the projects we like to show clients! On a serious note, we genuinely have a customer’s best interests at heart as it usually makes our job a lot easier in the long term and hopefully earns us more money. Experience gives us a good idea what a customer is actually looking for so we really are in a position to offer good advice. As always space in running a little short. I hope you all enjoy the Songkran holidays – which I am sure for many of you will be a new and eye-opening experience! So until next time, keep enjoying our unique city and look for some sensible property investments!
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marketanalysis
Why Russians buck gloomy global trend T
he global housing market suffered its worst performance for more than two years in the third quarter of 2011, according to international property consultants Knight Frank. The Euro-zone crisis has sent many property buyers and sellers into freefall and the press has been full of doom and gloom articles. Planned changes to the French capital gains tax system will also damage their international property market. China crisis A leading developer expresses worries about China’s imploding home price crisis and the worsening outlook for the nation’s property market. Even the United States must assess its distressed property if it wants to recover as cut-price sales continue to drag down prices according to information provider CoreLogic. Bucking this trend, it would seem, are the Russians! They have just announced
70•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
their lowest consumer price inflation of 6.1 per cent in 2011, the Federal State Statistics Service (Ross tat) reported. The Russian government has been struggling for years to achieve low-digit inflation to create a favourable investment climate and lure foreign investment. Another reason for this
Russians are taking advantage of buying up distressed real estate in Spain plus countries including Bulgaria, Turkey and Italy. Asia is expected to become their next target. Russian optimism is that only 24 per cent of Russians take out loans and only 18 per cent have deposits with banks, while most Europeans use two to four financial products, and some, five to six, according to Ivan
Svitek, chairman of the board of Home Credit Bank. Domestically Russian property is quite buoyant. For example, for months rumours were swirling that a Morgan Stanley real estate fund was interested in Galleria, a swishy five-storey shopping mall in the centre of St Petersburg. Staggering price Now the fund and the seller – Meridian Capital CIS Fund of Kazakhstan – have agreed on a price, people close to the deal say it went for a staggering US$1.1bn. If accurate, the figure will make the Galleria sale Russia’s largest commercial property deal ever – and coincides with other possible good signs for the Russian property market. According to data from Jones Lang LaSalle, 2011 was a bumper real estate year for Russia with $8.2bn in commercial property deals. The group includes yet-to-be-signed deals such as the Galleria sale on its list. Real Capital Analytics,
which counts only finished deals, records just $6.4bn of sales in 2011 versus $7.5bn in 2010. According to Svetlana Andyryukina, the editor of International Residence, Russia’s leading overseas property magazine, “almost all Russians have low out-goings and reasonably low income tax of just 13 per cent on their declared earnings. Their reluctance to also rely on their own banking system has fuelled a huge appetite for overseas investments with an estimated US$12bn earmarked for real estate markets abroad.” Andyryukina added: “Either purchasing personally or through an off-shore account, Russians are taking advantage of buying up distressed real estate in Spain plus countries including Bulgaria, Turkey and Italy. Asia is expected to become their next target.” Packed exhibitions Russian overseas property exhibitions are packed with middle class Russians hungry to have their own bricks and mortar abroad. According to Kim Waddoup, CEP of the aiGroup, the leading organiser of overseas real estate exhibitions, business is booming. Waddoup said: “Almost as soon as we closed the doors to our 2011 series of eight property exhibitions, 90 per cent of the exhibitors re-booked. I only wish we could find more exhibition space to cope with the large number of overseas companies wishing to join and exhibit in 2012.” Russians are also taking to the internet in a big way.
Internet penetration in Russia continues to grow fast. At the end of 2010 there were 59,700,000 users, 42.8 per cent of the population. The increase from 2009-2010 was in excess of 31 per cent. Russia has the second highest penetration of internet users in Europe, only beaten by Germany with 65m users. Yandex, Russia’s leading search engine, recorded a 37 per cent increase in searches for Bulgarian property in just four months up to last August. Spain came second with a 23 per cent increase with 70,337
searches. www.1-property.ru, a popular real estate portal, is regularly getting more than 5,000 visits a day from Russian property investors. Amazing increase Another statistic released recently by market research C9 Hotel Works announced that Thailand’s island of Phuket saw an amazing increase of 109 per cent in Russians vacationing there in the first half of 2011. They now have direct flights and travel there all year round. Russians are also big spenders of real estate in
Pattaya where many realtors have Russian-speaking sales staff to deal with enquires. According to the pundits Russians are likely to pour in excess of US$12bn into overseas investments and it would seem that the international property Industry is starting to take the Russian investor very seriously. Can they really afford to miss out? l Articles on this spread appear with the kind permission of International Residence, the Russian overseas property magazine.
focus on the us east coast Russian billionaire Mikhail Fridman is launching a real-estate fund that will focus on buying distressed properties from Boston to Miami, in the latest example of a deep-pocketed foreigner placing some chips on the US real estate market. Fridman, founder of the Russian financial-industrial conglomerate Alfa Group, is part of a venture that plans to invest a total value of about US$1bn. Most of the money will be his own. 04/2012•Issue 131•REm•71
guestcolumnist
Dan Cheeseman is co-founder and director of CondominiumPattaya.com. Previously he has worked in other forms of media in the city. Before coming to Thailand he spent 10 years with Coca-Cola Enterprises in various sales and marketing positions before going on to work in a consultancy capacity, developing business propositions essentially with the Post Office Ltd in the UK during its transition from being Government owned to becoming a more commercial proposition.
Impact of tomorrow’s tourist on your condo
T
here are some fundamental questions you need to ask yourself when buying a condo in Pattaya for investment purposes – and each of us will have slightly different levels of expectations and acceptable returns when answering. Questions usually asked include what returns will I make each year from renting to how and will the condo appreciate in value – and by how much – each year? These all seem fairly typical for any property investor, but my question is: Should they be looking at the tourist trends more when deciding what to purchase? Perhaps this is the vital question that needs to be addressed. After all, if you read the future correctly then the condo purchase today will be aligned to, and therefore very rentable in, the future. Commercially it’s the right question for anyone wanting to maintain or grow revenues in the future. Profiling tourists and the expected changes can be quantified.
72•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
‘‘
By dan cheeseman The Russians have continued to arrive in droves and nearby countries are now starting to come in numbers. My advice is to keep an eye on where Pattaya City Hall is marketing. They have been spending increased time in Japan, Malaysia, South Korea and India. These are among the countries they believe will grow tourism here. City Hall is also regenerating Pattaya under its ‘Greenovative Tourism’ project that will be more environmentally-conscious in its decision-making. This hardly bodes well for the single man, sex tourist industry proposition, which it seems, is perhaps going out of fashion. The possible implications Now consider the implications and what this could mean for your condo investment. Is that small, studio still looking so appealing? If we see more couples and families arriving and looking for a place to stay does your condo now, or the condo you are considering buying, fit their likely criteria?
Hedge your bets at least, if you really want to buy studios then consider buying two next to each other so you have flexibility.
’’
Hedge your bets at least, if you really want to buy studios then consider buying two next to each other so you have flexibility. You could link them if the market really does move towards couples and families over the coming years. What you don’t want to do is leave yourself exposed to a changing tourist profile. Make sure what you own is competitive not just for now, but the future. You could be making healthy rental margins in today’s market but that could easily be cannibalised by significant rental losses in future if you find you can’t rent it out. So, in summary, yes do continue to look at likely rental margins now but make sure you consider the tourist of tomorrow as they will be your customer of tomorrow, too. The single guy will no doubt still be visiting these shores for the next few years, but the real market could be the emerging couples and families as this is where the Thailand Tourist Authority and Pattaya City Hall want to take Pattaya.
Pattaya Real Estate
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we work with all the major developers 04/2012•Issue 131•REm•79
guestcolumnist Imorn Luekhamharn is managing director of CW Asset Co Ltd, the Pattaya property developer currently building two Bang Saray Beach projects – the under construction BangSarayBeachCondo.com and a new second project, CWoceanCondo.com Ms Imorn has an undergraduate degree in marketing and is a graduate master of business administration. These qualifications plus years of experience as an insurance and real estate agent have prepared her well to take charge of the family property business. She can be contacted at info@cwasset.com
Less than Bt1m trend
C
ondominium prices in Pattaya after the 1997 financial crisis were not much of an issue for foreign buyers. With the collapse of the Baht suddenly buyers with foreign currency were making amazingly low US Dollarpriced purchases of condominiums. At that time in Pattaya there was very little condo inventory for sale. Many projects had gone bust and the few that did survive were selling 40sqm bareshell studios starting at Bt300,000. Those units turned out to be quite good investments. By mid-2007 the value of them had more than doubled. Condo, houses and land prices increased nicely from 1997 to 2007 and Western foreigners were active in the Pattaya property market. Pattaya was growing and starting to attract international hotel and shopping brands to the city. This, in turn, was attracting an increasing number of Thais and foreigners. Radical changes No one was quite ready for the changes that came in 2008 as Wall Street’s financial health declined. Thailand’s finances, conversely, have been strong since then and the value of the Baht has grown. This dynamic has radically changed the Pattaya property market. Pattaya condo prices after 2008 suddenly looked quite expensive to Westerners. The Baht had been getting stronger over the years and Western currencies bought much less than before. The Baht, however, has not been as strong when compared to other countries in Asia and this 80•REm•Issue 131•04/2012
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By imorn luekhamharn has delivered a whole new group of condo buyers to Pattaya. There is strong demand for condos by this new group of Russian and Asian buyers. They and Thai buyers have been snapping up new units in record numbers. One of the main factors in this surge is that many developers are offering units for less than Bt1m. This is three times the price of pre-1997 condos of similar size but by today’s standards they are considered a bargain. Perhaps the most significant change in condo developments since 1997 is the trend towards smaller and smaller units. Pattaya condo prices per sqm have increased year after year and this is the main contributing factor to the reduction in unit size. Smaller sizes mean smaller sale prices and buyers have demonstrated they like that. The ever-increasing numbers of new condos that are sold out is proof that buyers really like this idea of small units, small prices. Leading the way in Pattaya toward smaller units are some Stock Exchange of Thailand-listed developers. Notable among these is the LPN company. Since last spring LPN has launched close to 4,000 condo units here, the majority of
Developers have been coming up with a multitude of offers to entice people to buy. These range from free furniture to the chance to win a car.
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which are units as small as 22sqm and at prices starting at Bt750,000. Thai buyers have responded strongly to new low-cost condos. With unemployment in Thailand being one of the lowest in the world at less than one per cent, almost everyone is working. Not only are more Thai employed, they also have the prospect of government-mandated higher wages coming soon. Cheaper to buy So the middle class will keep growing and more Thais will decide it is cheaper to buy than rent. You could say that due to the low prices, free furniture packages and resortstyle projects, an ever-larger number of Thais have opted for ownership. Developers have been coming up with a multitude of offers to entice people to buy. These range from free furniture to the chance to win a car. As well, prices have never seemed lower for new development condos. Every developer seems to have embraced the trend for smaller and lower-priced studio, one- and twobedroom condos. The competition among developers seems to driving the low price points. The less than Bt1m price is a good trend for Pattaya as it seems to satisfy both buyers and sellers. It has kept the local property market moving forward and is helping to create an incredibly dynamic city. New condo developments in prelaunch sale mode are always a good place to look for the best new condo investment at less than Bt1m. My own company is active in this area and we are launching a new project (left) to fit this price profile. More details on Pages 18 and 19.
Colliers ad pre-printed by Homes & Condos
Colliers ad pre-printed by Homes & Condos
Colliers ad pre-printed by Homes & Condos
Colliers ad pre-printed by Homes & Condos
Colliers ad pre-printed by Homes & Condos
Colliers ad pre-printed by Homes & Condos
Colliers ad pre-printed by Homes & Condos
Colliers ad pre-printed by Homes & Condos
a g e n t s AAAA Properties Jomtien Plaza Condotel 406/37 M12 Jomtien Beach Road T: +66 (0)38 756 370 F: +66 (0)38 757 015 M: +66 (0)86 144 1312 E: info@aaaaproperties.com W: aaaaproperties.com Principal: Louis J Van den Bergh ACI Enterprise Co Ltd (incorporating ACI Ocean Properties) 672/20 M5 Soi 18, Naklua Road next to Northpoint, Wong-Amat T: +66 (0)38 41 6060 F: +66 (0)38 41 6061 M: +66 (0)81 762 2627 E: info@aci-enterprise.com W: aci-enterprise.com and pattayaoceanproperties.com Principal: Markus Probst Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR
glossaRY The following are among the trade organisation memberships or qualifications held by some of the agents. Note that, in some instances, the qualification is with the individual employee – not the company overall. AIPP: Acronym stands for The Association of International Property Professionals which is a not-for-profit organisation whose aim is to improve the standards of professionalism in the international property market, helping both the industry and the public. Members have voluntarily signed up to follow the AIPP Code of Conduct. CIPS: Certified International Property Specialist – this is a members-only group which is for international practitioners of the National Association of REALTORS®.
d i r e c t o r y
Benchmark Asia Property Co Ltd 315/309 M12, Thepprasit Road T: +66 (0)38 304 133 M: +66 (0)81 792 9486 E: info@benchmarkthailand.com W: benchmarkthailand.com Principal: Gareth De Silva Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR
Big Mango Properties Main office: South Pattaya – Soi Big Mango off Third Road T: +66 (0)38 713 118 Second office: North Pattaya – Wong-Amat Residence, 505/1 Moo 5, Soi 16 Naklua Road T: +66 (0)38 725 001 Third office: BNT Building 155/4-6 Asoke Road, Bangkok T: +66 (0)2 258 8421 F: +66 (0)2 258 8420 M: +66 (0)89 685 2198 E: michael@bigmangoproperties.com W: bigmangoproperties.com Principal: Michael Barricelli
D E T N I R PRE-P E U S S I T LAS
Property Consultants
All Siam Properties M: +66 (0)87 068 5159 E: info@allsiamproperties.com W: allsiamproperties.com Membership: TREA Arise Asia 477/25 View Talay 5C, Thappraya Road T: +66 (0)38 075 610 M: +66 (0)85 228 8911 or (0)89 107 9807 E: info@ariseasia.com W: ariseasia.com Principal: Thanyamai Totharong (Thanya) Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR
NAR: National Association of Realtors is North America’s largest trade association representing more than 1.2 million members. Members can call themselves REALTORS®. NAR also functions as a self-regulatory organisation for real estate brokerage. REBA (Thailand): This is the nationwide Real Estate Broker Association with affiliation to the international Council of Residential Specialists. REBA-ES: The Real Estate Broker Association for the Eastern Seaboard.
RETS (Thailand): Real Estate Training School (Thailand) – brokers seeking membership of REBA must have staff attend and pass their test. More overleaf
Bizhouse Co Ltd 324/22 Moo 9 Central Pattaya Road near junction with Third Road T: +66 (0)38 416 322 M: +66 (0)89 0924593 E: info@bizhouseproperty.com W: bizhouseproperty.com Principal: Richard Arthur
Coastal Real Estate 216/62 M10, Soi 13 (Soi Diana net Mega-Break) T: +66 (0)38 421 580 M: +66 (0)81 269 0742 E: info@pattayarealestateservices.com W: pattayarealestateservices.com Principal: Kevin Mattson
AGENTS DIRECTORY • Sponsored by Tulip Group • 03-04/2012 • Issues 130 and 131
Alan Bolton Property Consultants Unit C102, 399/9 M10 The Avenue Shopping Mall Second Road near Villa Market T: +66 (0)38 416 728-9 F: +66 (0)38 416 730 M: +66 (0)81 996 2489 E: info@pattaya-property.net W: pattaya-property.net Principal: Alan Bolton Memberships: REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), TREBS
CRS: Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) is the top professional designation awarded to REALTORS® in residential sales. Held by fewer than five per cent of all REALTORS®.
a g e n t s
d i r e c t o r y
glossaRY
Colliers International Thailand 519/4-5 Second Road, opposite Central Festival, Pattaya Beach T: +66 (0)38 427 771 F: +66 (0)38 427 772 M: +66 (0)85 2828 120 E: info.pattaya@colliers.com or mark.bowling@colliers.com W: colliers.co.th Principal: Mark Bowling Memberships: RICS Delight Real Estate Co Ltd 308/58-59 M12 Thappraya Road T: +66 (0)38 251 415 F: +66 (0)38 251 416 M: +66 (0)89 542 3041 (Eng/Ger/Dutch) or +66 (0)89 253 8842 (Thai) E: info@delight-realestate.com W: delight-realestate.com Principal: Anne-Marie Adriaans
RICS: Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors – an independent body which regulates the conduct of property professionals and surveyors in the UK and other sovereign nations. RICS provides education and training standards, protects consumers with strict codes of practice and advises governments and business. TREA: The Thai Real Estate Association aims to be the hub of the real estate profession here by encouraging entrepreneurs to operate to standards of quality and ethics; to create the maximum benefits for developers, government and consumers altogether.
Jomtien Property 315/185-6 Thappraya Road near entrance to View Talay 2 T: +66 (0)38 303 243 M: +66 (0)86 108 6575 E: info@properties-in-thailand.com W: properties-in-thailand.com Principal: Stu Sutton KCR Homefinder Co Ltd Siam Country Club Road, near the Maneke Pis bar/restaurant M: +66 (0)81 442 2846 E: mail@kcrhomefinder.com W: kcrhomefinder.com Principal: Paul Davies North Shore Property Co Ltd 315/414 M12 Thappraya Road T: +66 (0)38 303 825-6 M: +66 (0)87 833 5066 or (0)86 323 4607 E: info@ns-property.com W: ns-property.com Principal: Mesa Wongsida
D E T N I R PRE-P E U S S I T LAS
AGENTS DIRECTORY • Sponsored by Tulip Group • 03-04/2012 • Issues 130 and 131
East Coast Real Estate Co Ltd Office 1: 414/19 M12 Jomtien Complex T: +66 (0)38 267 030-1 F: +66 (0)38 267 029 M: +66 (0)81 862 8034 Office 2: 485/4 M10 Second Road T: +66 (0)38 723 615-6 F: +66 (0)38 426 193 E: info@thaiproperty.com W: thaiproperty.com or thaiproperty.net Principal: David Gray
TREBS: The Thailand Real Estate Broker School provides training for real estate professionals. The course includes real estaterelated laws, broker law, broker ethics, listing and sales techniques, reconciliation techniques, property evaluation, property transfer procedure and tax calculation.
E: sales@fivestarvillasandcondos.com W: fivestarvillasandcondos.com Principals: Robert and Mesiya (May) Watson Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR, TREBS
Farang Property Services 223/32 M9, Third Road T: +66 (0)38 052 495 F: +66 (0)38 052 496 M: +66 (0)89 938 7433 E: info@farang-services.com W: farang-services.com Principal: Manfred Ehrenheim Advertisements: Pages 4 and 5
Global Property Global Solidor Enterprise Co Ltd Main office: North Pattaya – 157/142 Moo 5, Naklua Road Second office: Jomtien – Foodmart Supermarket, Thappraya Road T: +66 (0)38 427 364 M: +66 (0)82 469 5550 E: info@global-solidor.com W: global-solidor.com Principal: Rainer Heinzmann
Five Star Villas & Condos Main office: Pratumnak – Tara Court 388/109 M12, Pratumnak Road Second office: Jomtien – B30, The Village Shopping Centre, junction of Sukhumvit and Soi Chaiyapruk M: +66 (0)81 938 8391 Robert or (0)0809 16667 Mesiya
Golden Homes Real Estate Co Ltd 33/39 M9 Soi Diana Inn T: +66 (0)38 720 892-3 M: +66 (0)86 826 8821 E: info@goldenhomespattaya.com or Ploy1@csloxinfo.com W: goldenhomespattaya.com Principal: Yupaporn Sangpagdee (Ploy)
NT Realty Asia Main office: 215/15-18 Second Road T: +66 (0)38 426 242 or (0)38 425 836 F: +66 (0)38 426 243 E: info@nt-realty.com W: realestatethailand.com Second office: Jomtien – 315/183-4 Thappraya Road near Hanaman Statue T: +66 (0)38 252 435-6 F: +66 (0)38 252 437 T&F: +66 (0)38 374 667 M: +66 (0)80 636 1818 Philippines office: 11 Malabanias Road Angeles City, Pampagna 2009 T: +63 (0) 45 892 5719 Principals: John Seymour, Tim Bunker, Peter Randall (directors) and Paul Sutton (regional manager) Memberships: REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR One Stop Real Estate 219/14 M9, Soi Yamato T: +66 (0)38 710 699 or (0)38 710 725 M: +66 (0)819 454 845 E: onestop@realesthai.com W: real-estate-thailand.com Principal: Mark Welch Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR
a g e n t s Paradise City Property 116/27 M9, Pattaya Klang opposite Big C Extra (formerly Carrefour) T: +66 (0)38 373 966 M: +66 (0)81 761 3238 E: pattaya@paradisecityproperty.com W: paradisecityproperty.com Principal: Gavin Perfect
Est. 2001
PATTAYA REALTY Follow us:
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Pattaya Realty 219/1 Tipp Plaza, Second Road T: +66 (0)38 412 301-2 6,968,000 M: +66 (0)89 833 6175(CS5049) orSale(0)89 832 7226 Sale 11,900,000 (HS5005) Central Pattaya - Foreign Name: E: info@pattayarealty.com W: pattayarealty.com (HR1449) (CR3816) Principal: Stuart Daly Memberships: CIPS, REBA (Thailand), VJ Vil age REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR int size 190 m sq, ext size 540 m sq, 3 beds, 3 baths, fully fitted kitchen, high quality furnishings, Internet, close to local amenities, security alarm, covered car park, 24hr Security.
Pattaya Estate Agents (PEA) Car Park, Tesco-Lotus, Sukhumvit Road, South Pattaya F: +66 (0)38 075 313 M: +66 (0)819 458 650 (Thai) or (0)86 080 3098 (Eng) E: info@pattaya-estate-agents.com W: pattaya-estate-agents.com Principal: Sununtha Bun-um (Boom)
@pattayarealty
Brand new condominium in Pattaya int size 104 m sq, 3 beds, 3 baths, fully furnished, fully fitted kitchen, communal gardens, communal swimming pool, car park, 24hr Security.
(HS4959)
Rent 25,000 / month
Sale 6,990,000
Rent 20,000 / month
South Pattaya: int size 55 m sq, 1 bed, fully furnished, fully fitted kitchen, TV, DVD, Hi-Fi, close to local amenities
: int size 225 m sq, ext size 328 m sq, 3 beds, 2 baths, fully furnished, fully fitted kitchen,private gardens, private swimming pool, covered car park, 24hr Security.
East Pattaya :Ext size 420 m sq, 4 beds+ maid's room, 3 baths, fully furnished and kitchen, security alarm, private gardens communal swimming pool, covered car park, 24hr Security.
Rush! Premier Homes RealBeat TheEstate Co Ltd 240/21 Jomtien Beach Road T: +66 (0)38 231 931 M: +66 (0)81 634 2915 E: premier@loxinfo.co.th W: premierinternational.com (HS0247) Principals: Clayton and Supap: Wade Memberships: CIPS, RETS (Thailand), NAR (HR1041)
(CR4944)
Situated on top of Pratumnak hill, Spectacular sea and city view For special pre-launch prices in the highest building in Pattaya!
Baan Balina I
Rent 35,000 / month
Rent 16,000 / month
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Na jomtien:Bali Style,Int size 300 m sq, ext size 560 m sq, 3 beds, 3 baths, high quality furnishings and fully fitted Euro style kitchen, maid's room, Private gardens, private swimming pool, covered car park, 24hr Security.
Pratumnak:int size 48 m sq, Studio apartment, fully furnished, fully fitted kitchen, beautiful sea views, communal gardens, communal swimming pool, car park, 24hr Security.
E
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(HR1306)
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d i r e c t o r y
W: siamproperties.net Second office: 334/14 Soi Welcome, Jomtien Hotel off Jomtien Beach Road T: +66 (0)38 059 637 Third office: Wong-Amat Soi 18 (View Talay Residence 6) T: +66 (0)38 371 385 Principals: Heiner and Porn Moessing Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR Talay Real Estate Co Ltd 240/18 M5, Naklua not far from Dolphin Roundabout on Second Road T: +66 (0)38 362 352 F: +66 (0)38 362 351 M: +66 (0)87 608 1116 or (0)8 0091 5353 E: info@talayrealestate.com W: talayrealestate.com Principals: Namthip Khanjanavisittaphol (Sandy) and Ted T Okuno
D E T N I R PRE-P E U S S I T LAS Rent 44,000 / month
Sale 29,000,000 Jomtien: Fully renovated to a very high standard with 4 beds, 4 baths, fully furnished,
fully fitted kitchen, Jacuzzi, large private gardens, private swimming pool, security alarm, covered car park, 24hr Security.
Opposite Bangkok Pattaya Hospital East Pattaya:4 beds, 3 baths, fully furnished and kitchen, washing machine, Private gardens, private swimming pool, covered car park, 24hr Security.
Sale 12,950,000
The Regents Superior detached, two storey house, int size 650 m sq, ext 1400 m sq,
4 bedrooms + en suite, 5 bathrooms, fully fitted kitchen + food storage room, Jacuzzi, private landscaped gardens, large private swimming pool, separate self-contained 1 bedroom + en suite guest house with AC, security alarm, covered car park ,electric gate.
Our office address: 219/1 Tipp Plaza, Pattaya 2nd Road. Next to Mike Shopping Center, Nongprue Chonburi 20150
www.pattayarealty.com
Email: info@pattayarealty.com
Rightmove Pattaya 369/1 M9, Units 8&9 PS Bowl, 2nd Road T: +66 (0)38 361 212 M: +66 (0)89 253 5607 E: info@rightmovepattaya.com W: rightmovepattaya.com Principal: Craig Turner Memberships: REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand) Advertisements: Pages 30 and 31 Tel:66(0)38 412 301/2 or 089 833 6175 089 8327226
Pattaya Jomtien Property 75/49 Soi 5 Immigration, Beach Road, Jomtien (75m from Immigration Office) T: +66 (0)38 756 755 M: +66 (0)85 129 5657 (Thai); or +66 (0)85 667 3687 (English) E: sales@pattaya-jomtien-property.com W: pattaya-jomtien-property.com Principals: Kevin and Chanram Hurst Memberships: AIPP (International)
Pattaya Prestige Properties 2/28 Ground Floor, View Talay 7 F: +66 (0)38 059 632 M: +66 (0)870 217 014 E: info@pattayaprestigeproperties.com W: pattayaprestigeproperties.com Principal: Jan Nuyten
Seaboard Properties Co Ltd 316/23 Thappraya Road near Food Mart, Jomtien T: +66 (0)38 252 456 F: +66 (0)38 252 457 M: +66 (0)86 129 8281 E: info@seaboard-properties.com W: seaboard-properties.com Principal: Eddie Buehler Siam Properties Main office: 313/27 M10 Pattaya Tai T: +66 (0)38 415 490 F: +66 (0)38 414 693 M: +66 (0)81 861 1907 (Heiner) or (0)81 821 7045 (Porn) Russian: +66 (0)89 245 2890 (Vera) E: info@siamproperties.net or rus@siamproperties.net
Thailiving 306/90-91 M12 Thappraya Road T: +66 (0)38 364 514 M: +66 (0)81 862 7405 E: info@thailiving.net W: thailiving.net Principal: Supaporn Persson (Sara)
Town & Country Property 63/10-11 Pattaya Tai T: +66 (0)38 374 136 F: +66 (0)38 374 137 Russian: +66 (0)84 873 7425 E: info@towncountryproperty.com W: towncountryproperty.com Second office: B23 The Village Shopping Centre, junction of Sukhumvit and Soi Chaiyapruk Principal: Cees Cuijpers Memberships: CRS, REBA-ES, NAR Advertisements: Pages 8 and 9
AGENTS DIRECTORY • Sponsored by Tulip Group • 03-04/2012 • Issues 130 and 131
Pattaya Ocean Property 405/23 Soi Bongkot (opposite former X-Zyte Disco) T: + 66 (0) 38 374 623 F: + 66 (0) 38 374 623 M: + 66 (0) 811 580 065 ( English) + 66 (0) 807 247 476 ( Thai) E: info@pattayaoceanproperty.com W: pattayaoceanproperty.com Principal: Mal Patterson
Sallmanns (Eastern Seaboard) Ltd Near Hanaman Statue, Jomtien T: +66 (0)38 252 588 M: +66 (0)87137 0392 E: pattaya@sallmannsthailand.com W: sallmannsthailand.com Principal: Tim Gladwin
Thailand-Property-Gate Head office: 82/9 Langsuan Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Eastern Seaboard office: 449/84, M12, Thepprasit Road W: Thailand-Property-Gate.com E: Stefan@thailand-property-gate.com M: +66 (0)81 835 99 23
REAL ESTATE BROKER ASSOCIATION – EASTERN SEABOARD
ticks all Members of REBA-ES are respected
professional
Member companies in REBA-ES are part of an established and respected real estate organisation which has the support of the Thai Government
Clients of REBA-ES members can be confident that they are dealing with honest, reputable and properly trained real estate professionals
ETHICAL
The high standards we set conform to internationallyapproved rules, regulations, strict codes of ethics and dispute resolution policies
D E T N I R P PRE E U S S I T LAS
INFORMed
Our members network closely, giving all of them access to the Eastern Seaboard’s largest real estate association
For comprehensive property listings and professional real estate consulting contact our members at www.rebaes.com
www.rebaes.com
REAL ESTATE BROKER ASSOCIATION – EASTERN SEABOARD
the boxes ... Sponsoring REBA-ES members
D E T N I R PRE-P E U S S I T LAS
John Seymour +66 (0)38 426 242 info@nt-realty.com www.realestatethailand.com
Mark Welch +66 (0)81 945 4845 onestop@realesthai.com www.real-estate-thailand.com
Stuart Daly +66 (0)38 412 301-2 info@pattayarealty.com www.pattayarealty.com
Markus Probst +66 (0)81 762 2627 info@aci-enterprise.com www.pattayaoceanproperties.com
Heiner Moessing +66 (0)89 499 1000 info@siamproperties.net www.siamproperties.net
Rob Watson +66 (0)81 938 8391 sales@fivestarvillasandcondos.com www.fivestarvillasandcondos.com
Rainer Heinzmann +66 (0)81 838 1390 info@global-solidor.com www.global-solidor.com
Craig Turner +66 (0)89 253 5607 info@rightmovepattaya.com www.rightmovepattaya.com
... if your answer is ‘yes’ to all, check out the REBA-ES brokers in this
Gareth De Silva +66 (0)81 792 9486 info@benchmarkthailand.com www.benchmarkthailand.com
You can trust Advert: Zen Grafix
www.rebaes.com
DEVELO P ERS d i r e c t o r y
Major Development PCL 141 Soi Thonglor 10, Sukhumvit 55, Klongton Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Local project: Reflection Jomtien Beach Sales office: Jomtien Beach Road, adjacent to Suttangrak Restaurant T: +66 (0)38 233 111 F: +66 (0)38 233 730 M: +66 (0)89 247 7158 E: sales@reflectionpattaya.com W: majordevelopment.co.th Principal contact: Chiddao Promma (Bay) Walk
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Domum Holding Co Ltd 391/109 Thappraya Road. Corner of Soi 13, next to Mata Hari Restaurant Project: Meridiem Condominium T: +66 (0) 38 251 464 M: +66 (0) 8888 10311 F: +66 (0) 38 251 733 E: info@domum-holding.com W: domum-holding.com
Katalina Co Ltd 396/66 M12, Pratumnak Projects: Katalina I, II and III T & F: +66 (0)38 306 616 M: +66 (0)80 570 44 33 (English and Russian); +66 (0)81 983 00 68 (English, Dutch and French) E: rogge_tony@hotmail.com or albertdewilde@hotmail.com W: katalinaresidence.com
Chiyapurk
DEVELOPERS DIRECTORY • Sponsored by Tulip Group • 03-04/2012 • Issues 130 and 131
CW Asset Co Ltd 212/13 North Pattaya Road Project: Bang Saray Beach Condominium T: +66 (0)38 414 405 M: +66 (0)85 272 8338 (English) or +66 (0)85 272 8228 (Thai) E: info@cwasset.com W: cwasset.com or bangsaraybeachcondo.com Principal: Ms Imorn Luekhamharn Membership: TREA
Heights Holdings Co Ltd Thappraya Road next to Bruno’s Italian Restaurant Projects: Park Royal I, II & III, Pattaya Heights, Club Royal, Laguna Bay I & II, Laguna Beach Resort Jomtien I & II, Laguna Heights, Wong Amat Tower, Water Park Condominium and C View M: +66 (0)85 282 6454 E: oliver@heights-holdings.com W: heights-holdings.com Principal contacts: Oliver Nabarro and Danny van Harten
Noi
CSP Projects Chaiyapruk 2 over rail track on left opposite Baan Suan Neramit Projects: Coconut Grove, Coco Palms and Palm Grove T: +66 (0)38 076 285-6 E: md@csp-construction.com W: csp-construction.com Principal contact: Tom Coghlan
Global Tower Group Co Ltd Banglamung Soi 16 Project: Paradise Ocean View M: +66 (0)8 222 66 077 E: info@paradiseoceanview.com W: paradiseoceanview.com
Soi Kha
Bravo Thai Lifestyle Co Ltd Projects: The Vineyard I, II & III near Lake Mabprachan M: +66 (0)89 8677 969 E: terry@siamdevelopments.com W: siamdevelopments.com Principal contact: Terrence Allen Collins
Dusitpattaya Co Ltd Soi Wat Yan off the Sukhumvit near Ban Amphur Project: Baan Dusitpattaya and Dusit Grand Condo View (Jomtien) T: +66 (0)38 343 586 F: +66 (0)38 343 585 M: +66 (0)81 0584 930 (English and Thai) M: +66 (0)868 486 704 (Russian) E: baandusit@gmail.com W: baandusitpattaya.com or domvtae.su Principal contact: Darwan Bunting (Meam)
Soi Khao
AEH Development Co Ltd 92/45 Sathorn Thani Building (Tower 2), 16th Floor, North Sathorn Road, Bangrak, Bangkok 105000 Local project: Baan Talay (Bang Saray) T: +66 (0)22 34 1000 F: +66 (0)22 34 4000 W: baantalaypattaya.com
Matrix/Iguana Developments 352/202-3 M12 Pratumnak Road Current projects: Art-on-the-Hill, Paradise Park, Sunset Boulevard, The View, The Vision and Amazon Residence T: +66 (0)38 250 120-1 F: +66 (0)38 250 008 M: +66 (0)87 607 8880 E: info@matrix-developments.com W: matrix-developments.com Membership: AIPP Modus Group 292/1-2 Moo 5 Soi 12, Pattaya-Naklua, Naklua, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Project: Modus beachfront condo T: +66 (0)38 225 999 or (0)38 252 635 M: +66 (0)89-092 1333 E: info@moduspattaya.com or 888modus@gmail.com W: moduspattaya.com Principal: Pimpinan Namthep New Nordic Occupies a large area of Pratumnak. Go down Soi 4 and look for the orange signs on the right Current projects: New Nordic Suites, New Nordic VIP Condominium I, II and III and IV are planned T: +66 (0)38 250 025 F: +66 (0)38 306 299 M: +66 (0)89 605 4114 E: sales@new-nordic.com W: new-nordic.com Nova Group Nova Park, 80/164 M9, Soi Sukrudee (Soi AR) near Jameson’s Pub Projects: Amari Residences Pattaya, The Cliff, Nova Ocean View, Novana Residence, The Palm and Nam Talay T: +66 (0)38 415 304-8 F: +66 (0)38 415 309 M: +66 (0)85 282 6454 E: info@nova-thailand.com W: nova-thailand.com Principal contacts: Rony Fineman and Keith Storey Petch Property Development Co Ltd Projects: The Cove and Prima Residence Main office: 44 Soi Sukhumvit 59, Klongton Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 T: +66 (0)27 143 872 F: +66 (0)27 143 871 M: +66 (0)89 991 1999
inside back cover
D E T N I R PRE-P E U S S I T LAS
DEVELO P ERS d i r e c t o r y
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Shining Light Co Ltd Project: City Garden Pattaya Soi 15, Second Road close to The Avenue T: +66 (0)38 416 690 F: +66 (0)38 724 249 E: info@citygardenpattaya.com W: citygardenpattaya.com
Tulip Group Co Ltd 88/58 Moo 4, Bowin Sub District, Siracha, Chonburi Projects: Centara Avenue Residence & Suites Pattaya (behind The Avenue), Centara Grand Residence Pattaya (Na-Jomtien) and Waterfront Suites & Residences (Bali Hai) T: +66 (0)38 959 180 F: +66 (0)38 959 508 M: +66 (0)83 718 0005 E: jason@tulipgroup.co.th W: tulipgroup.co.th Principal contacts: Kobi Elbaz and Jason Payne
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Royal Oak Developments / Royal Jomtien Property Services Co Ltd Projects: Acqua Condominium, The Gallery, SP Townhomes, SP Villages I-V, The Urban, The Urban Suites T & F: +66 (0)38 231125-6 M: +66 (0)86 323 1908 E: theurbanproperty@gmail.com W: thegallerycondo.com, theurban pattaya.com, theurban-property.com Principal contact: Thanyarak Meesuk
Tropical Dream Pattaya Co Ltd Showroom Pratumnak Road, Soi 6 Projects: Tropical Dream I (II coming soon) T: +66 (0)38 252 299 F: +66 (0)38 252 209 M: +66 (0)82 202 0880 E: tropicaldreampattaya@gmail.com W: tropicaldreampattaya Principals: Gery Kis and Sylvie Schäffer
Chiyapurk
DEVELOPERS DIRECTORY • Sponsored by Tulip Group • 03-04/2012 • Issues 130 and 131
Ratanakorn Asset Co Ltd 300/6 M10 Pattaya Tai Current Projects: Life Star City Tower, Pattaya Klang Center Point, Ratanakorn Park View, Ratanakorn Villages 12 and 13, R-Con Residence, TW Garden Hill, TW Jomtien Beach Resort, TW Park View, TW Wong-Amat Beach Resort Condominium, Vela Casa. T: +66 (0)38 421 534 or +66 (0)38 421 274 F: +66 (0)38 428 795 M: +66 (0)81 762 6080 E: marketing-ratanakorn@live.com W: ratanakorn.com
Noi
Raimon Land PLC 22nd Floor The Millenia Tower, Bangkok Projects: Northpoint, Zire Wong Amat and Unixx South Pattaya T: +66 (0)26 519 601 M: +66 (0)81 3717 888 E: info@raimonland.com W: raimonland.com Principal contact: Piaras Moriarty
Town & Country Property 63/10-11 Pattaya Tai Projects: The Meadows, The Residence, Whispering Palms F: +66 (0)38 374 137 Russian: +66 (0)84 873 7425 E: info@towncountryproperty.com W: towncountryproperty.com Second office: B23 The Village Shopping Centre, junction of Sukhumvit and Soi Chaiyapruk Principal: Cees Cuijpers
Soi Kha
Poompatta Co Ltd 450 M9 Nongprue, Chonburi 20150 Project: Patta Village T&F: +66 (0)38 371 555 E: info@poompattapattaya.com W: poompattapattaya.com
The Siam Oriental Trading Co Ltd 267/4 M12, Pratumnak Projects: Siam Oriental Condominium, Siam Oriental Garden, Siam Oriental Twins T: +66 (0)38 250 873 M: +66 (0)84 872 1272 E: sami.sarajarvi@gmail.com W: siamoriental.com Principal contact: Sami Sarajärvi
Soi Khao
Sales office: 193/1 M5 Naklua Road T: +66 (0)38 428 284 or (0)38 428 595 E: info@ppd.co.th W: ppd.co.th Principal: Itthi Chavalittamrong
Vistas Development Chateau Dale Complex, Jomtien Projects: The Peak Towers (solo), Park Royal II and Water Park Condominium (in co-operation with Heights Holdings) English: +66 (0)87 803 3329 Thai: +66 (0)740 8999 Russian: +66 (0)80 826 6992 E: sales@vistasdevelopment.com W: vistasdevelopment.com Principal contacts: Menachim (Meny) Borenstein and Jason Young Tudor Villas Co Ltd Showroom Pratumnak Hill, Soi 2 Projects: Tudor Court Condominium M: +66 (0)81 863 0201 E: tudorvillas@yahoo.com W: tudorcourtthailand.com VKK Real Estate Co Ltd Sukhumvit 87 just before the rail track and the new road Projects: Porchland I, II, III (The Blue Residence), IV (The Time), V (La Santir) T: +66 (0)38 757 375-7 M: +66 (0)82 444 1147-8 E: theblue@porchland.com W: porchland.com VSPN Property Co Ltd 162 Moo 2, Sukhumvit Road (next to soi Banglamung 16), 500 metres past Kratingline Tri-junction Project: Seabreeze Villa Pattaya M: +66 (0)84 460 5335 F: +66 (0)38 241 340 E: seabreeze_villa@hotmail.com W: vspnproperty.co.th Principal: Ukarin Kerdkitsadanont Wandeegroup (Thailand) Co Ltd Thappraya Road on the left as you go up the hill towards Jomtien Project: The Touch® T: +66 (0)38 364 321 E: info@wandeegroup.com W: wandeegroup.com Principal contacts: Mario Kleff and Nittaya Wongsin Wise Power Land Co Ltd City Office Tower 1, Rama 3 in Bangkok Project: La Royale, Na-Jomtien T: +66 (0)26 826 255 E: info@wiseassetgroup.com W: wiseassetgroup.com
inside back cover
e v e n t s / p r o m o t i o n s
Nothing to beat a wet weekend!
A
Inn Pattaya will be offering revellers an international buffet dinner from 6.30pm to 10.30pm at Café G on the fourth floor. Food selections will include fresh BBQ seafood, fresh fruits and salads and Japanese, Thai and European dishes along with a wide selection of chef’s special desserts creation. Soft drinks are included for Bt988 per person while kids under 12 years old eat free. Call 038 725 555 for a reservation or visit www. dining-experience.com/pattaya. The Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya will provide a wide variety of Songkran activities based around Pattaya’s largest sand pool between April 11-23. Room rates range from Bt4,200 per night to Bt6,700 and suites from Bt7,200 to Bt9,200. A minimum two-night stay will include breakfast at Starz Diner for adults and two children; a complimentary water float; a ‘buy-one, get-one free’ massage at Rock Spa; a buffet dinner at Starz Diner; 10 Songkran access coins for activities around the
Revellers get into the Songkran spirit with a thorough drenching for passers-by. It’s the one time when youngsters can get their own back on adults without fear of a telling-off! Crowds admire the sandcastle creations at Bangsaen.
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
long, wet weekend is in store for many between April 13-15, but people in Pattaya can expect the deluge to last up to a week. It’s Songkran, of course, the annual festival when the normally level-headed become possessed with the urge to douse anyone and everyone with copious amounts of water. Songkran, which celebrates the Thai New Year, was previously calculated according to the Thai lunar calendar, but in recent years has been fixed on the Western calendar. Songkran falls on April 13-15 yearly, though the celebrations usually start before and end days after the official holiday. In Pattaya, for instance, the big day is always April 19, but if Songkran frenzy takes a hold of you, then head up to Sriracha on April 17 and Naklua on April 18. Sriracha’s Ko Loi Park will be the focal point of the town’s Songkran activities and Kong Khao Festival, a ritual to thank Mae Po Sop, the Goddess of Rice. Entertainment will include folk plays as it will in Naklua’s Lan Pho Public Park the following day, where alms will be offered to monks and scented water poured on a Buddha image. Sandcastle building One of the more unusual events during Songkran is the sandcastle building competition on Bangsaen Beach on April 16-17. Crowds flock to the beach to see amazing works of sand art created by the locals. Other attractions will include Muay Thai boxing and stalls offering local products and food. Pattaya stages a number of sporting events, some of which are highlighted here, to coincide with Songkran and many local hotels and hostelries offer Songkran specials. On April 18, the Holiday
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PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
e v e n t s / p r o m o t i o n s
pool (April 13-17); a free Songkran Wanlai concert on April 19 and a daily ‘Rock Star Web’ package for unlimited internet and movies. The Dusit Thani Hotel will celebrate Songkran with its Songkran Splash, which includes a 25 per cent discount on the hotel’s best rate and a complimentary buffet for two. The offer is valid for a minimum two night stay between April 1-30 and each guest will receive a Songkran survival kit, comprising an etiquette card, a Mo Hom shirt and a plastic wallet – essential for keeping your phone or money dry! Although Songkran dominates April, there’s plenty more going on in and around Pattaya for those preferring a little less mayhem. For example on the 6th a fundraiser will be staged at Shenanigan’s in Jomtien as part of ANZAC Day celebrations. Actual ANZAC Day is the 25th. The event supports members of Kanchanaburi’s One More Bar Cycling Team who plan to ride from the infamous Hellfire Pass to the current River Kwai bridge to raise funds that will allow a muchneeded wheelchair facility to be installed at Hellfire Pass.
The fun starts at 6pm on the 6th at the cost of entry is Bt750 (all proceeds to the wheelchair fund). For the money you will get the Shenanigan’s Carvery and two hours of beer, wine and soft drinks all free of charge. The event is also sponsored by members of the Royal British Legion Thailand, AustCham Thailand and Australia’s Emu Park RSL (Returned & Services League) that cares for forces’ veterans. Soccer kicks off In a complete change of pace ... after a month’s break, the Thai Premier League began the new season in March and the Dolphins of Pattaya United have already played three home games at Nongprue Stadium. They will be looking to build on their fourth place finish last season and play two home and two away games during the next month. The April home games are against Chainat on April 8 and Esan United on April 29. Both games kick off at 6pm. Chainat, runners-up in Division One last season, have risen to the Thai Premier League in just three seasons since their formation
A Spring Regatta cat battles the breezes off Pattaya. A gruelling course awaits riders in the Mountain Bike Challenge 2012. Japan’s Ryuki Kozawa, Pattaya’s latest soccer signing from Gainare Tottori. Eager youngsters get under way on an adventure dash.
while Esan, formerly Sisaket Muangthai FC, finished last season in 12th place in the TPL. Dolphins fans will be keen to watch the progress of new striker Ryuki Kozawa, signed recently on a one-year contract from Japan’s J-League Division Two team Gainare Tottori where he scored 11 goals in 29 appearances. The 24-year-old has also featured in a handful of games for J-League Division One team Tokyo and replaces Kengne Ludovick of the Cameroon, the 2010 TPL top scorer with 17 goals who has moved to Pattaya’s local rivals and TPL runners-up Chon Buri. Bira Kart Circuit will see round two of the Kart Championship of Thailand on the weekend of April 7-8. Racing will be in six classes – KF2 (two-stroke 125cc engine); 125 Senior Open; 125 Junior Open; KF3 (11-16 year olds); Mini ROK and Mini Kart 60cc (7-12 year olds). The national championship consists of six rounds of racing. Rounds three, four and five will be held at Saraburi with the series concluding at Bira on November 4. Bira’s main circuit will feature the Singha Racing School on the weekend of April 28-29 in which
Adventure Dash Back on dry land, the Pattaya Trophy Adventure Dash 2012 at Pattaya Beach takes place on April 7 starting at 8.15am, The event includes mountain biking, trail running, kayaking and swimming, all with surprise obstacles. The Adventure Dash travels
Earth, Wind and Fire in concert during 2009. The band will perform in Bangkok as part of their Guiding Lights Tour. Close racing is guaranteed for round two of the Kart Championship of Thailand at Bira. The Singha Racing School gives less experienced drivers the chance to cut their teeth over eight laps of the Bira circuit.
along Pattaya Bay and explores the trails of Pratumnak Hill, although the precise start location had yet to be announced at the time of going to press. There are five categories – men, women, masters, grand masters and students. Adventure racing is a new sport contested over fun, but not too crazy, courses and has exploded in popularity across Asia. Medals will be awarded to the top three in each category along with cash prizes of Bt3,000, Bt1,500 and Bt1,000 to the top three finishers in the men, women and masters categories. The more serious mountain bikers will take to the trails on the weekend of April 28-29 for the Pattaya Mountain Bike Challenge 2012. The competition will be on Pratumnak Hill where riders will be faced with gruelling courses, each about 6.5 kilometres long. Last year more than Bt100,000 in prize money was up for grabs. The competition will consist of separate downhill and cross-country races in various age categories for both men and women. The Challenge starts with the downhill competition at 7am on April 28 followed by the crosscountry on April 29.
Finally, if all this exercise is a bit too much for you, I suggest you spend a nostalgic evening at the Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok, on April 2 and enjoy the music of legendary funk and R&B band Earth, Wind & Fire on their Guiding Lights Tour. EW&F have sold more than 90 million albums, putting them seventh on the list of best-selling American bands. Hits include September, After The Love Has Gone, Boogie Wonderland and Fantasy. Rolling Stone magazine once described EW&F as “innovative, precise yet sensual, calculated yet galvanising” and also declared that the band “changed the sound of black pop”. Throughout their career, EW&F have received numerous awards including six Grammys and four American Music Awards. In 2000, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Tickets are available at Bt2,000, Bt3,000 and Bt4,000 from thaiticketmajor.com or from the call centre on 02 262 3456. By the way, pop sensation Lady GaGa is due to be performing in Bangkok in May. More details will appear in our next issue. Robert Collins
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PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
the less experienced Pro Car drivers compete over eight laps in three classes – up to 1500cc, 15002000cc and over 2000cc. Bira will also stage a Speed Drag on April 21 in which locals compete to see who is the fastest over 220 yards. Offshore, the Royal Varuna Yacht Club completes its two-day Spring Regatta for catamarans and dinghies on April 1 and stages part one of its Spring Series, again for both cats and dinghies, on April 14-15. Part two will follow a fortnight later. The cats will also compete for the Short Course Varuna Championship on the weekend of April 21-22. Still with sailing, Gulf Charters will stage its third Overnight Race to Koh Chang on the weekend of April 7-8. The race starts at Ocean Marina Yacht Club and finishes 120 nautical miles away at the Gulf Charters base in Koh Chang.
i n s i d e r
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A style that fits
C
‘‘ ’’
ontemporary Asian? Tropical Modern? Minimalist? Can you define your style? Listen to a roomful of interior designers long enough and your eyes are sure to glaze over from the sheer volume of jargon being thrown about. Designers and architects seem to have created their own language to describe how a home or office or shopping mall is decorated. But don’t be put off just because you don’t know what someone means by “Rococo PostModernist Design”. It’s just like building a wardrobe … learn the basics then make your own style.
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
Box of crayons The standard for defining décor styles is pretty basic. Think of décor style as a box of crayons with eight very basic colours. Then compare it to a deluxe box of crayons with 64 colours to choose from. In the smaller box you
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The key to mixing the two styles is to understand the role colour and shape play with our perception of style.
A little Asian flair goes a long way.
might select a crayon labelled “Contemporary”. In the big box, you could easily find yourself selecting “Contemporary Asian Minimalist” or “Bali Modern”. The combinations are endless. And then, of course, there is the ever-elusive “Eclectic” look. Many styles simply do not lend themselves to the tropical environment we have here in Thailand. Overly traditional furniture with big, heavy draperies are really out of place and impractical. When I shipped a container of furniture from the US, I was sure it would be acceptable. Even though my stuff was working for me in Florida, a sub-tropical environment, it all seemed too bulky and heavy for my lifestyle here. Perhaps the hottest styles going here in Pattaya are the fusion categories of Tropical Modern and Tropical Asian. Most foreigners want a fresh look and to pay homage to their adopted country for its culture and natural beauty.
But modern clean lines seem to harmonise with life in a seaside city. Modern styles are also perceived to be low maintenance and devoid of clutter; a notion that appeals to most holiday makers, expats and retirees alike. A contradiction? Tropical Modern seems like a contradiction. When one thinks of the tropics, visions of jungles and monkeys and pristine beaches are conjured up. How does that mix with modern furnishings? The key to mixing the two styles is to understand the role colour and shape play with our perception of style. Certain hues of red will always make us think of them as “Chinese Red”. Long horizontal lines will always be considered Japanese with their Zen-like calming effect. Use of materials like stainless steel and mirrored walls will give us a feeling of modern, contemporary design. The shape
of a table, no matter how modern, will always look Asian somehow if the legs are at a certain angle and made of a certain wood. Sliding, or disappearing pocket doors, no matter what colour or texture, will always be thought of as Asian influenced. Mostly, a tropical feel is all about colour and openness. In the tropics, homes are designed with a great amount of concern placed on cooling. Open plan rules Hence, the “open plan” rules the roost. Certain materials make themselves ubiquitous because of their function. Ceramic tiles are the order of the day for flooring here. Mostly because they are resistant
to moisture and insects … and they are cool. Nobody wants a hot floor. Natural materials like slate, travertine and hardwoods can also mark a place as tropical simply by using indigenous products in your décor. Rattan, bamboo and even coconut wood are sure signs your look is tropical and Asian. More than anything, colour triggers the tropical memories in our brains. Fruit colours like tangerine, mango and Watermelon Red always take me to a sandy beach under a palm tree. Ocean Blue/Green gives you an entirely different feeling than Forest Green. The combination of strategically placed tropical colour with natural materials gives us the base for our Tropical Modern style.
The shape of these contemporary tables gives them an Asian feel.
Combining colors and styles for a fusion look.
So, how do you inject the modern? First of all, disguise modern shapes with tropical finishes. Take an art deco/ modern style sideboard finished in teak veneer. It has a modern shape but a familiar and tropical appeal because of the teak. A contemporary shaped sofa looks infinitely softer when wrapped in rich distressed leather and adorned with silk tropical printed throw pillows. Same technique Use the same technique in your kitchen. High gloss finish in any kitchen will always denote it as “modern” or “contemporary”. Blend the kitchen into your look by using high gloss on the upper cabinets
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
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and a bold patterned wood veneer on the bottom. If your house is to be “Tropical Modern”, nowhere should it be more apparent than in the kitchen. The use of tropical wood tones down the reflectiveness of the high gloss. You could go a step further and make the high gloss in a wild tropical colour like tangerine or mango yellow. This approach could be dragged around the entire house. A built-in entertainment centre with highgloss, natural wood and glass shelves in the living room; a highgloss modern style bed resting on an Oriental rug and teakwood floor; the combinations are endless. Less clutter Minimalism is a cousin of any “modern” style. Less clutter seems like a modern thing. When deciding on furniture, think “less is more”. Instead of populating your living room with several pieces of furniture, go for one stylish sofa in a really rich natural material. By the simple fact you are using less furniture, the tropical pallet you have chosen is being altered by the use of minimalism. Less furniture is more modern no matter what other style variables are present. The same goes for bathrooms.
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Combining natural materials with modern shapes; very tropical modern!
‘‘ Add furniture slowly, letting each piece find its place in your home. By the time you get to lamps rugs and artwork ... you are simpy fine tuning the look.
Try to eliminate any need for glass doors or shower curtains. One aspect of classic contemporary design and Asian design is simplicity and function in bathrooms. Design the room in a way that has no need for doors or curtains. You’ll score big points for both modern and Asian design. When it comes to blending Asian elements into your Tropical Modern design, a little goes a long way. A few Asian elements are really all you need. Obviously a Buddha in the house will always make it have an Asian feel. Take care to display the image properly in a respectful way. Certain types of artwork, no matter where they come from, lend an Asian flair. Batiks, paintings of koi, Khmer statues, and oriental rugs … all of these things can give your place just the right splash of Asian flair. But, don’t overdo it. When clients come to my company asking for something like a “Tropical Modern with an Asian flair” décor plan, I think giving the colour pallet over to tropical; the furniture to modern and the accessory and artwork to Asian sensibilities is the best of all worlds. Use the built-in furniture like the kitchen and bathrooms to transition with looks that reflect
all the flavours you want to blend. It is also a nice twist to create vignettes where you showcase the marriage of three styles, perhaps displaying a modern lamp on an Asian style table with a water colour beach scene painting. Such displays tie the house together stylistically. Don’t hurry The important thing is not to get in a hurry. Trying to build your hybrid style in a day can be disastrous. You run the risk of a place that looks contrived, like a new Irish pub that tries to build an old patina overnight. Choose a pallet of colours and select some natural materials to lay down your base design. Then add furniture slowly, letting each piece find its place in your home. By the time you get to lamps and rugs and artwork … you are simply fine-tuning the look. And remember; don’t take the style too literally. “Modern” doesn’t necessarily mean “space age”. “Asian” doesn’t have to mean dragons and tigers. And “Tropical” doesn’t instantly indicate bananas and coconuts. Take a look at the shapes and colours associated with these styles and make them fit you, not the other way around. Bart Walters
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A truly Titanic event...
1 The Titanic, pictured above leaving Southampton on April 10, 1912, on its fateful maiden voyage, was built at which shipyard? 2 When it sank, claiming 1,517 lives on April 15, 1912, the Titanic was en route from Southampton to New York. But where was its last port of call?
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
3 RMS Carpathia was the first rescue ship on the scene after the sinking and picked up 710 survivors. However, another ship was much closer to the Titanic but failed to go to her aid. What was this ship called? 4 The Titanic had two sister ships. What were they called? 5 A 1958 film about the disaster starred Kenneth More and won the 1959 Samuel Goldwyn International Award at the Golden Globe Awards. What was the film called? 6 In what year was the wreck of the Titanic discovered? 7 What were the names of the two main characters in James Cameron’s 1997 film Titanic, played by Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet (pictured right)? 8 The youngest passenger on
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board the Titanic was also the last survivor to die – at the age of 97 on May 31, 2009. Who was she? 9 Almost 100 years after the sinking of the Titanic, the Italian cruise ship Costa Concordia foundered off the west cost of Italy resulting in 32 deaths. Which was bigger, Titanic or Costa Concordia? 10 The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra will perform The Titanic Requiem, on April 10 in London, the 100th anniversary of the Titanic leaving Southampton on its ill-fated voyage. Which former pop singer collaborated with his son to create the work? Now for a change of subject: 11 China has long had a one-child policy. The city of Shanghai
April sees the 100th anniversary of the world’s most famous maritime disaster. But how much do you know about the sinking of the Titanic? Find the answers to our quiz on Page 118
announced in February that it was introducing a new onewhat policy? 12 Following a law change, British pubs and restaurants can now sell beer in two-thirds of a pint measures called what? 13 August 2011 marked the 40th birthday of the Mr Men book series. Mr Tickle was the very first of the men, but who was the first Miss? 14 The iconic Hollywood town sign (pictured above) has graced LA’s Santa Monica mountains since the 1920s. In the 1970s the original letters were replaced and sold. Where are they now? 15 In the 1980s, the restaurant on the first level of the Eiffel Tower was dismantled and bought by a French businessman. It was then traded to a different country and reassembled where? 16 Frenchman Louis Paulhan won Britain’s first long-distance air race and a Daily Mail prize of £10,000 on April 28, 1910 by flying between which two cities? 17 Who is the oldest living artist to have a chart-topping album in the UK?
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Dr Iain Corness (right) is a medical doctor who has worked in the UK, Europe and Australia, before coming to Thailand in 1997 to become a consultant at the Bangkok Hospital Pattaya (email: inquiry@bph.co.th). He has been writing for newspapers and magazines since 1967 and is currently a special correspondent for the Pattaya Mail, technical editor for Asean Autobiz, and contributor to many coffee table magazines in Thailand.
No blood pressure is a dangerous situation ...
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
I
certainly do hope you have blood pressure (usually known as BP), because if you don’t you are definitely dead! So, having no BP is certainly dangerous. However, if your BP is too high, it can also mean you could be claiming early on your life insurance policy – or your relatives will, on your behalf. High BP (hypertension) is known as the “silent killer” as there are very few symptoms of an increase in blood pressure, until a vessel bursts somewhere, generally catastrophically! The good thing is you are dead within minutes, so you won’t linger. Blood pressure is needed to supply all the organs of the body with oxygen which is in the blood. This is done by the red blood cells which carry the oxygen, with the pump to drive the system being the heart. The tubes from the heart are the arteries, and those returning the blood to the heart are the veins. Pumping pressure This heart-arteries-veins-heart system is a “closed” circuit. In other words, no leaks, otherwise you would be continually losing the life-preserving blood, but to make it go around, there has to be a pumping pressure (just like the oil pump in your car). So what is your correct BP? Optimal: less than 120/80 Normal: less than 130/80 High-normal: 130-139/85-89
‘‘ ’’ If your doctor tells you that you have
‘hypertension’
on one reading
tell him politely you disagree,
but will come
back for further checks over
the next few weeks.
High blood pressure (hypertension): Stage 1: 140–159/90–99 Stage 2: 160–179/100–109 Stage 3: 180 or higher/110 or higher The problem with running at high pressure is that the heart is having to work harder, and therefore may be subject to heart failure. The arteries are also subjected to higher pressures than they were designed to cope with and can burst, making the risk of stroke so much higher. Other organs don’t like working at the high pressures either, and kidneys, in particular, can go into failure mode. So how do you find out (before it is too late) if your BP is too high? Quite simply by
repeated measurements. Note I write “repeated”. Just as one swallow doesn’t make a summer, one elevated reading does not mean your BP is always high. If your doctor tells you that you have “hypertension” on one measurement tell him politely you disagree, but you will come back for further checks over the next few weeks. Dynamic situation You see, blood pressure is a dynamic situation. Lying down you can have one BP. Get almost run over by a baht bus and you instantly have another much higher BP. Blood pressure tends to be higher in the morning and lower at night. Stress, smoking, eating, exercise, cold, pain, noise, medications, and even talking can affect it. The single elevated reading does not immediately mean you have high blood pressure. In fact, the average of several repeated measurements throughout the day would be a more accurate picture of what is going on than a single reading, but quite frankly, you do not have to go to that extreme. Once a week for a few weeks is enough. As part of the routine in most good hospitals and clinics is the measurement of your blood pressure. You should get this done at least twice a year, in my opinion. Rising or elevated readings do mean you should get medical advice. Have it checked today.
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the chow hound Hunting down meals and deals ... It’s a beach of a month for The Hound as he heads down Na-Jomtien way to take in the local delights.
you can’t beat the view
There are, of course, a whole host of Thai seafood favourites, but menu planners PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
at The View pride themselves on some very creative fusion dishes.
This month The Hound returned to one of his all-time Pattaya favourite beachfront restaurants, The View. Turn towards the beach about 50 metres north of The Ambassador City Complex on Sukhumvit Road, and you’ll find the restaurant most likely to make out-of-towners say, “This is Pattaya?” The View is a big indoor/outdoor seaside seafood extravaganza. The Hound enjoys the extra beachy feel of this place. From the water sports school in the front, to the immaculately clean sand on the beach, The View reminds The Hound of the beach from his childhood. Seeing the students from the water sports school zipping out to sea on their windsurfers or flying overhead attached to brightly coloured kites sets The Hound’s tail to wagging. Besides the fact that the View is decidedly more upscale and clean than most of the rustic Thai style eateries, the menu is quite a bit different as well. There are, of course, a whole host of Thai seafood favourites, but menu planners at The View pride themselves on some very creative fusion dishes. International flair Many dishes show off an international flair indicated by the use of items like enoki mushrooms, and New Zealand mussels. On a recent Sunday, The Hound treated himself to a serving of New Zealand mussels finished with savoury soy dressing, Japanese mushrooms and finely sliced red peppers. The Hound also
recommends the mussels finished with Thai green curry (gaeng kiew wan). The Hound’s favourite main course is any whole fish entrée. While he really digs the fried grouper with tamarind sauce, it is almost impossible for The Hound to pass up the whole steamed snapper in lime and garlic (pla nueng manao). The always-too-big white snapper comes to the table suspended above a flame with a side bowl of sauce to continue basting the fish. It just doesn’t get more fresh and healthy than that. Meat choices, too The View boasts a wide variety of Thai and fusion-style fresh salads as well as a really nice sushi selection. For those not so wild about seafood, fear not … The View also has great beef and pork selections including a spicy beef salad (yum nua) that is a real hunger stopper. Besides the food, three other advantages of The View keep The Hound coming back. The decent and affordable wine selection; the live music in the evening; and the show on the beach all add up to make The View the perfect place to chill, eat fresh seafood and just people watch. The Hound’s windsurfing and kite boarding days have passed him by, but he still likes to sip on a nice Chardonnay, slurp down some raw oysters and watch the spectacle from the shade. The other Sunday the scene was so perfect even The Hound was heard to say, “This is Pattaya?”
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The 2012 season slips into gear
A
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
fter an agonising three month wait, the international motor racing season has begun. For the premier category, Formula 1, this year we will see 20 Grands Prix, provided that political instability in Bahrain does not lead to cancellation of that round, as was the case in 2011. Last year was a Red Bull whitewash (should that be a redwash?), with Sebastian Vettel recording his second World Driver’s Championship title, and the Red Bull team claiming their second Manufacturer’s Championship too. On the Button This year looks as if many of the other teams have caught up with Red Bull, and if the Australian GP is anything to go by, McLaren has more than ‘caught up’ – Jenson Button’s first place shows that Red Bull can be beaten. As well as McLaren, Mercedes with Michael Schumacher is now
challenging for a top spot, and a huge surprise down-under was the form of the Lotus team (previously known as Renault) where young Frenchman Romain Grosjean (pronounce “Grow John”) was third on the grid after qualifying. Lotus also has the services of ex-world champion Kimi Raikkonen, who, although not performing well in Qualifying and having to start from way down the order, still can in seventh at the end of the race. Other teams which are now much closer to the front than they were last year include Sauber and Williams, while the shock poor performance goes to Ferrari, with another ex-world champion, Alonso, wrestling with his car for the whole GP and ended up fifth. His team mate Massa was nowhere, and is in danger of being dropped. Ferrari does not like being an also-ran. The Grands Prix in April and
sport of a very different sort ... football golf A new attraction has opened in East Pattaya that allows you to combine football and golf skills. The course has been added next to a bungy jump and, perhaps not surprisingly, it’s now called the Jungle Bungy Jump and Football Golf. It can be found on Soi 87 Sukhumvit Road. It’s quite a way up the road so don’t give up and think you have missed it (as I did). It’s the left turn
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off Soi 87 that will take you to the Elephant Farm. The new attraction is a little like Crazy Golf with, of course, the major differences being the size of the balls and the holes. Someone unkindly said that I couldn’t get a ball in the large holes even if I were playing with a golf ball. People can be very cruel! Dave Buckley l Ring 038 249 401 to learn more.
The McLaren team seem to have caught up with Red Bull (above, left) as the Australian Grand Prix showed.
A delighted Jensen Button celebrates after taking the checkered flag in Melbourne.
May are the Chinese on April 15 and Bahrain April 22 and then the Spanish on May 13. Local motorsport at the Bira Circuit is also getting underway, and in my category, the Retro Racing Championship gets going on May 4, Saturday May 5 (Round 1) and Sunday May 6 (Round 2). Regular competitors Much work has been done by the regular competitors such as Urs Schoenenberger (Holden V8), Gavin Charlesworth (EBC Brakes BMW V8), Henk Kiks (B-Quik Porsche 944) and ourselves (Securitas Mk1 Escort) and we will be joined by many new competitors such as Bobby Brooks (BMW E36) and Riccardo Neri (Valentino’s restaurant Mk 1 Escort). International motorsport is looking good for 2012, and also for the local races at Bira circuit. Drop by and say ‘Hello’ to the Securitas Team on Sunday May 6. Dr Iain Corness
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Starting on April 2 REm will link up with the new local portal of this major global tourism web site to present the property pages on www.mydestination. com/pattaya
For the well travelled ...
a t t r a c t i o n s / g o l f
Attractions
Underwater World: on Sukhumvit Road 200 metres south of Tesco Lotus at Pattaya South has a collection of marine species from the Gulf of Thailand. Walk through the 100-metre long pedestrian tunnel and witness more than 200 species of fish swimming by. Open daily from 9.00-18.00 (last tickets 17.30). Tel: 038 756 879 or Fax: 038 756 879. Pattaya Elephant Village: is 7km from Central Pattaya on Phonpraphanimit Road. Shows daily at 14.30 and last an hour. A one-hour elephant ride is available from 8.00-17.30 and rafting, trekking (three hours including a meal) is available at 9.00, 10.30, 12.30 and 16.30. Tel: 038 249 818. Khao Kheow Open Zoo: 35 km north of Pattaya. A huge zoo with many animals that are on the endangered species list including six rare white tigers exchanged by the Memphis Zoo in the USA. Open daily 08:00-18:00. Tel: 038 298 188.
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
Sriracha Tiger Zoo: A zoo with various shows at 341 Moo 3, Nongkham, Sri Racha (30 minutes away). It claims a population of 200 tigers and around 10,000 crocodiles, the largest of such in the world. Tel: 03829 6556. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden: 163 Sukhumvit Road (15 minutes east of city towards Bang Saray). Beautiful gardens with waterfalls, “Cultural Extravaganza” performances four times a day. Tourists experience religious ceremonies, martial arts demonstrations, massages and elephant shows. Various restaurants are available. Tel: 03842 9321 Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum: on the third floor of Royal Garden Plaza. Access from both Second Road and Beach Road. Open daily 11.00-23.00. Tel: 03871 0294/8 Sanctuary of Truth: this wooden giant can be found in North Pattaya. The entrance is at Soi 12, Naklua Road. Every inch of the building is covered with wooden carvings
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to reflect Ancient Vision of Earth, Ancient Knowledge, and Eastern Philosophy. It is open daily from 9.00-18.00 Admission is 500 baht. 038 225 407/038 367 229 www. sanctuaryoftruth.com The Million-Year Stone Park and Crocodile Farm: lies a 15 minute drive from central Pattaya. It features an exotic zoo, and crocodile, fire-swallowing and magic shows, as well as the garden and stone park. Open 8.0018:30. Tel: 03824 9347-9 or www. thaistonepark.org for information. Mini Siam: is on Sukhumvit Road, surrounded by Soi 33. This model village celebrates the heritage of Thailand with miniature replicas of the most famous monuments and historical sites. Replicas of Tower Bridge, Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty and Trevi Fountain are also displayed. There is a small go-kart track. Open daily from 7.00-22.00. Tel: 038 421 628 for information. Koh Larn: is reached by ferry from Bali Hai pier or by speedboat. It has several beaches boasting white sand and clear blue water. The many activities include para sailing, snorkeling, jet ski, banana boat, swimming in tropical waters, and there is even a shooting range there. Koh Larn is also suited for bicycling and hiking. www.kohlarn.com Pattaya Park and Tower: at Pratumnak features a large whirlpool with giant sliders and a tower with a revolving restaurant. Visitors can also enjoy several games and rides on the tower and in its playground. Open daily from 10.00-19.00 (20.00 on Saturday). Tel: 03836 4110-20 or 02579 96124 or www.pattayapark.com for more information. Bira International Circuit: is the only internationally certified racetrack in Thailand. Its extensive facilities include a full-service karting track, an off-road test track, and the FIA certified 2.41km racetrack. It can be found about 15 km away on the Pattaya-Rayong Road (Highway 36). Tel: 022 803 547/025 221 731/8
Here we list just a few of the things tourists and expats can do to make their time here more enjoyable ...
Golf
Many local bars organise golf days, often at better prices than casual golfers can negotiate with the course direct. If you plan to play regularly, consider membership of the Pattaya Sports Club as production of its membership card can help secure worthwhile discounts. The one-off registration fee is Bt400 plus Bt500 a year membership. Most golfers find they can save these sums within just a few rounds. Bangpra International: is one of several five-star courses in the area. This is an 18-hole, par 72 course with plenty of water on the front nine. Clubhouse recently renovated – even the toilets are automated! Tel: 038 341 149-50 Burapha Golf Club: is a fourstar, 36-hole, par 72 course. The Eastern course suits up-andcoming golfers, while the Western challenges the more experienced. Reserving a tee-off time is advised. Tel: 038 372 700-1 Century Chonburi: Designed by Nick Faldo, this is an inexpensive 18-hole, par 72 course, usually not too busy during the week. Clubhouse has little to commend it, but this is reflected in low green fees. Tel: 081 304 1545 The Emerald: Close to Bang Chang, Emerald is another course where Nick Faldo has left his mark. He designed this in conjunction with the late Desmond Muirhead. Many holes test accuracy, not length, of drive. Tel: 038 941 111 Greenwood (formerly Noble Place): is well designed 27-hole, par 72 course. A well-kept course with few water hazards allows good scoring for high handicappers. Tel: 081 484 9066, 081 484 9069 Laem Chabang International: this Jack Nicklaus-designed, 27-hole, par 72 course is one of the top ones. Set in spectacular surroundings on mountain, valley and lake nines. Carts are compulsory here. Tel: 038 372 273
b a r s / r e s t a u r a n t s
Bars
Bamboo Bar: live music nightly in this busy bar and streetside lounge. Close to Walking Street entrance. Tel: 038 232 315, Fax: 038 232 315, email: bamboopattaya@ hotmail.com Caddy Shack: as the name suggests, it’s a haven for golfers. Airconditioned with outdoor terrace and swimming pool and rooms to rent upstairs. 388/385 M10, Soi 17. Tel: 038 300 683, Fax: 038 300 682, email: enquiries@caddyshackpattaya.com Green Bottle: cosy, well-run pub with a good reputation and central location. 216/3 M10, 2nd Road. Tel: 038 429 870, email: dianagrp@ loxinfo.co.th Jameson’s: Irish pub with strong food offering. Popular with locals and tourists alike. Good place to unwind. 80/164 Moo 9, Soi Sukrudee (Soi AR) right next to Nova Park. Tel: 038 361 873-4 Fax: 038 361 873, email: info@jamesonspattaya.com
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
Metro: an air-conditioned sports bar boasting free pool tables and numerous screens on which to watch top sports events. Soi LK Metro, 33/85-36, Moo 10 close to Soi Buakhow. Tel: 038 425 874, email: info@metro-apartmentspattaya.com Punch & Judy: this is a Londonstyle pub with good food and competitive prices. Frequent promotions. Almost opposite the Caddy Shack in Soi 17. Tel: 038 413255 Shamrock: fun and lively British-run ‘family’ bar, an oasis of sanity among the bars of Pattayaland, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 425 417 email: pattayashamrock@yahoo.com Witherspoons: A typical Britishstyle pub with inexpensive meals available while you watch the football on one of its numerous screens. Rooms also available. Soi Buakhow near Soi Diana Inn. Tel: 038 721 121
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Need to be fed and watered? You’ll find a warm welcome at any of the following ...
Restaurants
Ali Baba: Good quality Indian restaurant with a fine selection of authentic dishes. 1/13-14, Pattaya Central Road close to the beach. Tel: 038 361 620 Alt Heidelberg: German sausages and imported sauerkraut dominate the menu, good location. 273 M10, Pattaya Beach Road, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 421 258 Bruno’s: Renowned for serving classy reasonably expensive French cuisine, more than 150 wines available. A place to impress. 306/63 Chateau Dale Plaza, Thappraya Road, Pattaya. Tel: 038 364 600-1, Mobile: 081 861 5612, Fax: 038 364 602, email: reservations@brunos-pattaya.com Cherrys: You get a lot for your money here. European and Thai food. Be careful not to fill up on the salad bar which is free when ordering a main course. Their buffet nights get crowded. In Third Road opposite the former X-Zyte Disco. Tel: 086 3145819 Ciao: Decent pizza and pasta in this established Italian restaurant in town centre. 4 Pattaya Klang Road. 038 710 614 Hard Rock Café: International restaurant cum bar with large cocktail menu and mainly American influenced cuisine. DJs spin discs and house band performs cover versions. 429 Moo 9, Pattaya Beach Road. Tel: 038 428 755, Fax: 038 421 673. Open: Mon-Sun 11.00 to 02.00 JJ Pizza Bar: authentic pizza cooked in wood fire ovens, reasonably priced. 325/85 M.10, Soi Pattaya-land 2, Pattaya Beach Road. 038 424 128 Lobster Pot: huge restaurant serving all seafood, specialising in lobster and tiger prawns. Walking Street opposite Pattaya Soi 14, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 426 083 PIC Kitchen: classy Thai food in a traditional atmosphere. Soi 5, Pattaya 2 Road. Tel: 038 428 374, 428 387, Fax: 038 422 773, email: picpih@loxinfo.co.th
Pig and Whistle: British pub grub in ample portions served by welltrained staff. 217/34 Moo 10, Pattaya City. Tel: 038 361 315, Fax: 038 361 272, email: info@ pigandwhistlepattaya.com Queen Victoria Inn: traditional English pub with excellent menu and a good selection of imported beers on tap. 437/137-8 Soi Yodsak (Soi 6), Pattaya.038 425 418, 362 523, Mobile: 086 060 6210, Fax: 038 424 941, email: mail@ queenvicpattaya.com Rice Mill: Cantonese restaurant offers dim sun and all-you-caneat buffet on weekends. Royal Garden Plaza, 218 Beach Road, Pattaya. Tel: 038 421 120 Royal Cliff Beach Hotel: huge complex containing 10 restaurants, including the delicious Maharani Indian restaurant. 353 Pratumnak Road. Tel: 038 250 421, Fax: 038 250 511, 250 513, email: info@ royalcliff.com Shenanigans: bars and restaurants serving traditional Irish pub-style fayre and drinks with daily food specials. Two venues. First is up one level at The Avenue Pattaya. Tel: 038 723 939-40, Fax: 038 723 941, email: info@shenanigans-pattaya.com. Second is in Jomtien Complex which also has daily promotions such as “Toss the Boss”. Tel: 038 303 490. The Sportsman: traditional pub fayre with Thai food. Top Sunday carvery, extensive wine list and many imported beers. Soi 13, Beach Road. Tel: 038 710 609 Sugar Hut Restaurant: in hotel of the same name, expensive, but worth it. Thai cuisine. 391/18 Moo 10, Thappraya Road. Tel: 038 364 186,251 686, Fax: 038 251 689, email: sugar-hut@cnet.net.th, opening: 07.00-24.00 Tips Restaurant: more than 12 set breakfasts served in this popular, yet inexpensive, restaurant. 22 Pattaya Beach Road, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 423 418. Open Hours: 07.00-24.00
Coffee break
Did you know...
Violet Jessop was a stewardess aboard White Star Line’s Olympic when it collided with HMS Hawke off the Isle of Wight on 20 September 1911. She transferred to Titanic and when it sank on 15 April 1912 was rescued by the Carpathia. Finally she worked as a nurse aboard White Star’s biggest Olympic class ship, Britannic, and was hauled into a lifeboat from the sea when the ship struck a mine and sank on 21 November 1916, claiming 30 lives.
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CRYPTOGRAM Answers to all the puzzles appear on Page 129
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Two-minute trivia
1. The Black Death wiped out 30-60 per cent of Europe’s population in which year? A) 1349 B) 1456 C) 1512
2. Which was the first country to colonise SE Asia? A) France B) England C) Portugal 3. Who was the youngest Queen of England? A) Elizabeth I B) Victoria C) Elizabeth II 4. Who was/is the oldest reigning British Monarch? A) George III B) Victoria C) Elizabeth II 5. Which 2000 movie starring Russell Crowe won Oscars for Best Picture and Best Actor? A) A Beautiful Mind B) LA Confidential C) Gladiator
The six greatest books according to Time Magazine. 1 Anna Karenina (Leo Tolstoy) 2 Madame Bovary (Gustave Flaubert) 3 War and Peace (Leo Tolstoy) 4 Lolita (Vladimir Nabokov) 5 The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (Mark Twain) 6 Hamlet (William Shakespeare)
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P O J Z H E R V R N R B M A N Q S R Y O O O E N X A T G R W S U X Z G C R W C A M Y V L U O S Q V S L X V S T L E E H N B H X Y H L C N I J X R C S X V U Q A M A M Q I S U B A R U X X S Y N R I I Q W U H D F L X V X Y I B V O T M A Z D A M W E U V O F M W J S I D U I U J W L F E H D N I W U O N K Q T L E O B C C O T V J B M O I F H O V A C D V K Z P N I P H W F C R Y E W L F C Y E R S H W Z E N O T O R P N X P F U H Y U N D A I P O T S Q F L G Q I S P B W N D D R J A W T D D K Q B Z K L L T T V J Y L B D N Find the names of these 12 Asian car manufacturers: Daewoo
Infiniti
Mazda
Subaru
Honda
Isuzu
Mitsubishi
Suzuki
Hyundai
Lexus
Proton
Toyota
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PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
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Six of the best
Leo Tolstoy – best book?
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Decode this Groucho Marx quote by deciphering the missing letters. We’ve given you two to start.
NUMBER CRUNCHER
Fill in the missing numbers using 1-9 to complete the equation. Each number is used once. Multiplication and division are peformed before addition and subtraction.
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1 Harland and Wolff, Belfast. Six workers died on the ship during construction, two more were killed in workshops and sheds and one died at the launch ceremony when a piece of wood fell on him. 2 Queenstown, Ireland, now renamed Cobh in County Cork. 3 The SS Californian had been only a few miles from the Titanic but had not picked up her distress calls or responded to her signal rockets.
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
4 The Olympic and the Britannic which was originally going to be named the Gigantic. The Britannic sank in 1916 after hitting a mine while the Olympic was scrapped in 1937. 5 A Night To Remember, directed by Roy Ward Baker. 6 The wreck was discovered on September 1, 1985, at a depth of 2.5 miles (4 km), slightly more than 370 miles (600 km) south-east of Mistaken Point, Newfoundland. 7 Jack Dawson and Rose DeWitt Bukater. 8 Millvina Dean, who, at two months and 13 days, was a the youngest passenger on board the Titanic. Her father, died on the ship while Millvina, her mother and brother, survived. Millvina died on the
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Millvina Dean, who was the youngest of the 1,316 passengers on board the Titanic and, in 2009, became the last of the survivors to die. Dame Vera Lynn, who topped the UK album charts at the age of 92 in 2009 with We’ll Meet Again: The Very Best of Vera Lynn. The Bee Gees’ Robin Gibb composed
The Titanic Requiem
with his son, RJ. It will be performed on April 10.
Louis Paulhan touches down at Didsbury, Manchester on April 28, 1910 to win the UK’s first long-distance air race and claim a Daily Mail prize of £10,000.
98th anniversary of the Titanic launching while her brother died, aged 81, on 14 April 1992, exactly 80 years to the day Titanic struck the iceberg.
1981, was the first Miss in the Mr Men series. The series started in 1971 and a total of 120 million Mr Men books have been sold worldwide.
9 The Costa Concordia was heavier and longer but slower – 114,137 gross tons to the Titanic’s 46,328; 952 feet long to the Titanic’s 882 and a maximum speed of 23 knots to the Titanic’s 24.
14 They were bought by American artist Bill Mack in 2007 for $450,000 (£288,700) in an online auction. Since then, he has been using metal sheets from the original signs to paint portraits of past Hollywood stars.
10 Singer/songwriter Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees composed the work with his son, RJ Gibb.
15 New Orleans. Some 11,000 pieces of steel and glass were traded to a barter company in New York. The pieces were sent to New Orleans and reassembled as Le Restaurant de la Tour Eiffel. It was later renamed the Cricket Club.
11 Shanghai has introduced a onedog policy. Officials said too many owners were abandoning their pets. Last year, more than 140,000 people told Shanghai police they had been bitten by unlicensed dogs. 12 The new measure is called a schooner. 13 Little Miss Bossy, created in
16 London and Manchester. 16 Dame Vera Lynn, whose album We’ll Meet Again: The Very Best of Vera Lynn, topped the charts on August 30, 2009, when she was 92 years old.
Find us at The Avenue shopping centre
08 1177 5333
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
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Coffee break answers two-minute trivia
1 A) 1349; 2 C) Portugal; 3 B) Victoria (18); 4 C) Elizabeth II (85) 5 C) Gladiator. NUMBER CRUNCHER AND SUDOKU 2
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Remember to divide before adding, so the third line down is calculated 9 ÷ 3 + 6 to arrive at 9.
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‘A child of five would understand this. Send someone to fetch a child of five’. – Groucho Marx
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PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
Friendship Supermarket South Pattaya Road near junction with Third Road
b a r s t o o l
d e b a t e
Generation of hi-tech ‘duckers’
A
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
m I imagining things or is it getting easier to avoid confrontation in these hi-tech days? Time was when you had an awkward message to convey to someone you either wrote to them, phoned them or said it to their face. How things have moved on. Now it’s easier to duck out of sticky situations. Let’s take the break-up of a relationship as an example. Thirty years ago you might have received a ‘Dear John” letter saying it was all over. Maybe a difficult phone call with a few tears thrown in for good measure. Or, there was the only decent way, in my opinion, and impart the news face-to-face. Now you can be ditched by email, by sms or maybe even on Twitter. As case of parting is such tweet sorrow? Yes, there is no doubt about it, the hi-tech era makes conveying bad news simpler and less personal. A few years ago I received an sms from a lady of my acquaintance saying it was not a good idea that we meet any more. Dumped by sms! The ignominy of it all. But apparently I’m in good company as the actor Charlie Sheene has received similar treatment.
Back on again Of course, four or five weeks after my dumping (when money was running low) it was all back on again. “I sent you an sms saying goodbye? No, don’t be silly.” That’s the thing about sms or email rejections. They don’t really count, or do they? While I’m on the subject of confrontation I would just like to make an observation about the Thai attitude to it. When I arrived here I was told by several well-meaning people that the Thais do not like confrontation. But, then, who does? Now I would like to refine that observation by adding a caveat. My thinking is that Thais do not like confrontation when they feel they are in the wrong! I’m sure the more jaundiced
When the 9/11 attacks were in progress an aide to the then British Government sent out an email suggesting it might be a “good day to bury bad news”. Footballer Rio Ferdinand is into social networking in a big way, making him a right Twitter in the estimation of non-Man United fans!
among you will have an opinion about how often this is the case. But I reckon it’s an important distinction to make. Anyone who has faced up to one of our hosts when they think right is on their side will know that they can take some confrontation and are actually very good at it – provided it’s an argument they ought to win. But really are they any different to anyone else on the planet in this respect? Who does like to engage in an argument when they think that they are in the wrong? It’s not my favourite pastime, for sure. Of course you might be the type who actually relishes a heated debate. Up to you. For myself I prefer to avoid confrontation. I’m the type of guy who if the wrong meal turns up I would maybe even eat it rather than complain. I’m not saying this is the right way to be, by the way. I feel uncomfortable if I’m seated at a restaurant table and one of the people I’m with complains to the waitress. Some folks seem to revel in such discussions. They say they are standing up for their rights. Perhaps so. I often think they are just being a bully. I’m sure the right way lies somewhere in between these two extremes and that I need to toughen up a little. But back to hi-tech and its role in confrontations. Are more and more professional footballers using
their Twitter accounts to get their gripes known? No need to speak to the Press after a match any more. Just Twitter what’s upset you and the media will soon pick up on it. Google the words Ferdinand and Twitter together and you will see how often the Manchester United defender gets into hot water over his Twitter account. Cynical approach Let’s not leave good old email out here. Back in 2001 an aide to the then Labour Government sent out an email while the 9/11 World Trade Center attacks were in progress suggesting it might be a “good day to bury bad news”. The aide was confident that all the TV and newspaper coverage would concentrate on the attacks. A highly cynical approach which drew a lot of criticism at the time. I should make it clear that I feel I am guilty as anyone of misusing the newer technologies. What’s really sad is that I now often find myself taking up five minutes to compose and send an sms when probably a 30 second phone call would have covered it and given me a response. As Cliff Richard once sang: “We don’t talk any more”. The art of conversation is dying. I plan to email, text and put it on Facebook so all my friends take notice! Dave Buckley
sports SPECIALS FOR APRIL 2012 Roar on your favourites at lion pub
Golf: US Masters at Augusta •5-8 April • Highlights each following day
Aussie Rules: Collingwood V Richmond • Saturday 7 April • 3.40pm
The Lion Pub is the newest Sports Bar in Pattaya where sports fans get together to watch live games on 8 big-screen TVs. Our state-of-the-art satellite system ensures you can watch any sport from around the world. We have ice cold beer and a complete range of spirits.
Rugby: Munster V Ulster Heineken Cup QF • 8 April • 7.45pm
Our kitchen serves a large selection of your favourite bar snacks and Thai food, all served in a relaxed, fun and air-conditioned bar environment by our friendly hostesses. 380/81-84 Moo 10, Soi 17, Suksabai Villa, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20260
Formula 1: China Grand Prix • 13-15 April • Times vary
T: 038 301 030-3 E: info@lionpubpattaya.com W: www.lionpubpattaya.com Bar and kitchen open 10am until late
Soccer: Man City V Man United • 30 April • 2am on Tues morning
check out our 18-room guesthouse above the bar
m o v e r s
&
s h a k e r s
Bangkok gets M&S message
T
he smart people could see it coming – and really it was only a matter of time before Bangkok’s best discovered what the Eastern Seaboard has known for some years ... that the Movers & Shakers experience is one to savour. Late in February the first Movers & Shakers corporate and charity networking evening took place in the R-Bar at the capital’s Renaissance Hotel. The hotel’s name means rebirth, but for the majority in attendance it was a whole new experience. Indeed close to 200 people were in attendance – a amazing turnout for an inaugural event. Perhaps the only man not really surprised by the showing was Cees Cuijpers, the boss of Pattaya’s Town & Country Property company whose idea it was to take M&S to the Big Mango.
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
Grow and grow He said: “Of course I was very pleased by such a big attendance but the effort my team put into publicising the event reaped it’s proper reward. Now we have one ‘under our belts’ I expect future events to just grow and grow.” For the uninitiated (where have you been hiding?) M&S is about great networking in great locations. A nominal charge is made for entry but that sum does not attempt to cover the cost of the food and drink consumed. That’s where the sponsors – in this case major Pattaya condominium developers Height Holdings – come in. And the nice thing is that, at the end of it all, donations are made to various charities. As REM was going to press another top venue was in line to stage the second gathering – the St Regis Hotel in Ratchadamri Road. Look it up on the web and the word that keeps repeating is “luxurious”. Sponsors were the Tulip Group who have three up-scale projects mixing condominiums and hotels released in Pattaya.
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PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
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l i g h t h o u s e
c l u b
Lighthouse Club PATTAYA BRANCH
Aliis cum humanitate • Consideration for others
REM is the official magazine of The Lighthouse Club Pattaya The LHC is an international benevolent fund established to raise awareness of safety issues in construction and to assist in the provision of safety and schooling for the underprivileged construction workers’ children of Thailand web: www.lighthouseclubpattaya.com • email: events@lighthousepattaya.com
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
March double-up leaves April without a meeting
B
y the time you read this the Lighthouse Club will have staged its second meeting of March – on Friday the 30th at the Holiday Inn’s Havana Bar. In case you are wondering what LHC have got against April the answer is nothing .... other than the fact that holidays make it difficult to fix a date this month. Friday the 6th clashes with a Buddha holiday (no drink) and had the committee tried to put it back a week that would have been into Songkran. So the decision was taken to move it forward and go to
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the Holiday Inn on the 30th of last month – a four week gap from the great – if slightly hot – meeting at the Dusit D2 Baracuda Hotel on the 2nd that had been sponsored by Global Tower Group, the people behind City Garden and Paradise Sea View. Pensions specialists Sponsors at the Havana Bar were Asia Pacific Pensions, the QROPs specialists whose principal partners boast a combined experience of more than 50 years in the pensions advice field. It was to have been the first
visit to the Havana Bar this year but, such is the popularity of the venue for, among other things, its indoor-outdoor combination, we feel sure it won’t be the last. A spokesman for Asia Pacific Pensions said before the event: “We are glad to be back at the Havana Bar. We have always enjoyed the venue and I’m sure that clients and new contacts will feel the same.” l Pictures on this page were taken at the Dusit D2/Global Tower event. The magazine went to press a few days before the Havana gathering so we hope to feature it in our next edition.
dates to note Meeting dates are as follows: l No April event as two were held in March. l May 4 – Tropical Dream condominium. l June 1 – sponsorship is available. l July 6 – sponsorship is available. l August 10 – sponsors are Siam Developments. l September 7 – sponsorship is available. l October 5 – sponsorship is available. l November 2 – sponsors are CEA Projects.
p h o t o
f i n i s h
PATTAYA LIVING sponsored by Euro Design Furniture • 04/2012 • Issue 131
Taken to tusk: Elephant Round-Up at Srinarong Stadium, Surin. The photographer, Peter Kraemer, can be contacted on +66 (0)84 864 9370 or mail@kraemerphotoart.com • www.kraemerphoto art.com
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