REm
New Nordic Atrium the condo with its own supermarket This plus other on-site facilities means you never have to leave
thailand • pattaya edition
Issue 171 | August 2015 | www.remthai.com
เรียล เอสเตท แม๊กกาซีน ไทยแลนด์
who is who • commentary
Publisher/Editor Mesiya Watson may@realestatemagazinethailand.com Sales and Marketing Pure Phanthong Tel: 087 618 6486 pure@remthai.com or purephanthong@gmail.com Wongduan Roberts Tel: 087 535 8096 duan@remthai.com or realestatemag@hotmail.com Office/Accounts Tel: 038 406519 or 08 6335 2474 dear@remthai.com Web address: www.remthai.com Publisher Pattaya Property Consultants Co Ltd 21/27 M5 Soi Nern Plub Waan Nongprue • Banglamung Chonburi 20150 Tel: 038 406519 or 08 6335 2474 Printer Royal Siam Printing Services Co Ltd 68/5 Jomtien Villa M1 • Jomtien Beach Rd Na Jomtien • Chonburi 20250 Publication Licence Number: 2/2549 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. They 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. Copyright © Real Estate MAGAZINE Thailand 2015
Reasons to be cheerful Those who know me reasonably well will attest that I am not the most cheerful of chappies. Actually that’s an understatement. I’m a miserable so-and-so, the man who put the doom in gloom. The character of Victor Meldrew in the BBC TV series One Foot in the Grave is the life and soul of the party by comparison. But even I am feeling a little more cheerful than I did a couple of months ago and the reason can be summed up in three words ... infrastructure, infrastructure, infrastructure. Before I venture any further let me repeat the timeDave Buckley honoured caveat for living here – TIT (this is Thailand). This thinks must be applied when reading the rest of this column. One thing this country has taught me is to believe Pattaya is on things when they have happened. “I’ll settle with you the road (rail tomorrow?” I believe it only when the money shows up on and air) to the statement. Healthy cynicism aside, the infrastructure plans for success. He the area around Pattaya could spell out a bright future for wishes this those in business and those investing here. Look at the evidence. A high-speed rail link is due to would kick pass through the area on its way down to Rayong. An in tomorrow expressway which will by-pass the city but have links off it is planned. U-Tapao airport, which may end up rather than being called U-Tapao Pattaya, is on course to welcome years down four times as many passengers as it does now and is the line. earmarked to become Bangkok’s third airport. Provided each of the above does actually happen – and I’m applying as big an “if” as any reader – Pattaya will become a serious tourism destination. Actually it is already ... so let’s say even more serious. A little way down the line there will be three water parks to the south of the city. That’s in addition to the fact that the area has developed into a true haven for golfers in recent years. As long as prices do not suddenly shoot up and/or the baht strengthens beyond all recognition why wouldn’t tourists wish to spend time here? Other popular tourism spots on the map especially around the Mediterranean have become less desirable in recent times for a variety of reasons. Tunisia has been hit by two terror attacks on tourists; Greece looks likely to be less cheap as austerity measures kick in with VAT rising considerably; political unrest in Egypt suggests you are taking a risk if you wish to visit the Pyramids; and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office also feels that Turkey may experience terror attacks. If fact, late last month they did. If it sounds like a bit of gloating is mixed in here perhaps it should be noted that Thailand is not without the odd travel warning or two, especially in relation to the border area with Malaysia. Those of us who live here and regular visitors have an understanding of the risks ... or, more accurately, the lack of them. The problems Thailand faces regarding attracting tourists are well known and you don’t need me to dwell on them. First time visitors may be inclined to look elsewhere. Let’s hope the passage of time changes their perceptions.
3 REM 08/2015
Managing Director Dave Buckley Tel: 087 988 0799 dave@remthai.com
Our team
Since 2001 – Thailand’s first English language property magazine
contents • leisure
cover story
off-beat
Condo with its own supermarket
Give your mum a treat
10 • win youR mum a spa visit: To help celebrate Mother’s Day we are offering three massage vouchers in a simple-to-enter competition.
12
Many projects have on-site restaurants, shops or convenience stores but we are not aware of any that have their own supermarket – that’s what New Nordic’s Atrium Condominium will have.
36 • what are the chances of a
womanchester united? Following on from England’s great showing at the World Cup will all the top English clubs their
soon own
have ladies
teams?
4 REM 08/2015
32 36
At Lake Side Court 5 the showhouses keep getting snapped up.
Opening an office on the Dark Side is paying off for Coastal RE.
24
Live in a branded condo
57 • cece back in pattaya! One of the city’s most
just 100m walk from
prolific networkers returned to check out the social
Ban Amphur beach.
scene and promote a Bali-based brand.
advertisers • page numbers
Arcadia Beach Continental (HH)
39
BBX Thailand
61
Biz House
22
Centara Avenue Residence & Suites (Tulip) Centara Grand Hotel (Tulip) Centara Grand Residence (Tulip)
44-45
Back cover 8-9
City Center Residence (Matrix) Inside front cover Coastal Real Estate
37
Collingbourne Auctioneers
64
Dusit Groups
3
Euro Design
55
FARANG Services
4-5
Foodland
53
Foodmart
49
Gecko Properties
17
Gio Home Kitchen
47
Global Property
49
Global Solidor
62
Golden Tulip Hotel & Residence (Tulip)
34-35
Green Field Villas 5
50-52
Lake Side Court 5
31
Lake View Properties Pattaya
64
MD Furniture
64
New Nordic North Beach (Nova) Orient, The (Matrix and Nova)
Cover, 18-19 43 7
Pattaya Digital Signage
62
Pattaya Realty
15
PFS (Pattaya Foreigner Services)
58
Real Estate Broker Association Riviera, The – Jomtien
68-69 11
6 REM 08/2015
Sands Condominium Inside back cover Sunny Property Investments
59
Thailand Properties.asis
64
Town & Country Property
27, 29
Waterfront, The (Tulip Group)
20-21
Willows, The
41
X2 Vibe Pattaya SeaPhere
23
news • property
Property awards next month Soon nominated projects will know if they have been shortlisted The Thailand Property Awards Gala Dinner will be staged at the Athenee Crystal Hall, in the Plaza Athenee Bangkok, a Royal Meridien hotel, on the 15th September starting a 6pm. The deadline for entries has passed and site visits to see the nominees have been carried out. Previous winners of the Best Condo (Eastern Seaboard) award, Amari Residences by Nova Group are expected to feature alongside projects such as The Riviera Jomtien (right). Last year’s winner of the Best Villa Development (Eastern Seaboard) – The Vineyard Phase III (left) is also thought to be among those in contention this time. But we will know more on 3rd August when a shortlist of those in line for the awards will be published.
8 REM 08/2015
Red Planet is singing out of Tune The number of hotels labelled Tune has effectively been cut in half following the decision of franchisee Red Planet to go their own way. Red Planet Hotels have taken just three months to re-brand all their 24 properties in South-East Asia leaving Tune with just 23 hotels in their Malaysian home market and the UK. Tune Group was started by Air Asia’s Tony Fernandes. The major change in emphasis is that prices at Red Planet hotels will be all-inclusive whereas Tune hotels, like the airline, charge a basic plus extras. Red Planet will continue with a low-cost strategy and offer a loyalty programme. Tim Hansing, chief executive officer of Red Planet, said: “More than 50 per cent of our guests have stayed with us in excess of four times, so we have also launched a loyalty programme called Remembered, aimed at rewarding our guests for their frequent stays. We are currently enrolling around 1,000 members a month to this programme and that number is growing sharply over time.”
Red Planet hotels comprises 3,783 rooms in Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia and Japan. Flagship properties are expected to open in Tokyo and Bangkok later in the year. Explaining Red Planet’s philosophy Mr Hansing said: “It’s all about value. Value for our customers and creating value for our shareholders. “When guests leave our hotels we want them to think they have made a smart decision by staying with us. We conducted extensive surveys with many thousands of our guests across the region and, among other things, we established that our new brand is about giving our customers more of what they want, and less of what they don’t. “Almost all of our guests are aged between 20-30, and this online generation is changing the dynamics of the hotel industry. To embrace this shift, we have invested heavily in our IT platform and are constantly listening to our customers and responding to feedback. We have significantly upgraded Wi-Fi speeds at our hotels to be among the fastest in the industry.”
mother’s day • offerl
Treat your mum to special massage SAMPLE ONLY
T
hailand has been celebrating Mother’s Day since 15 April 1950 but in 1976 the date was switched to 12 August to coincide with the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. The day has remained unchanged ever since. To help three lucky mums to celebrate the day REm is giving away vouchers for a two-hour Queen of Oasis Signature Massage at the Oasis Spa, Chateau Dale off Thappraya Road. Each of the three massages is
valued at Bt4,590.30. How to win? Just visit our Facebook page www.facebook. com/realestatemagazinethailand, and give us the thumbs up (Like us) and complete the following sentence in not more than 10 words ... I love my mum because ... Prizes will go to the most appropriate or amusing message. Include a phone number so we can bid to get the voucher to you before the 12th. Please note that vouchers must be used before the end of November.
What’s happening on the big day?
R
12 REM 08/2015
estaurants and hotels tend to announce their Mother’s Day plans a lot closer to the 12th so we have limited information available as we go to the printers. However, one thing that is guaranteed – your favourite eatery is almost certain to be doing something special. At the Holiday Inn Pattaya (pictured here) they have been running a “Kids Stay and Eat Free”
promotion for a little while now and are planning to keep it going over the period surrounding Mother’s Day. For big day itself the hotel will have a special Mother’s Day Buffet featuring international and seafood priced at Bt999++ per person with children aged under 12 eating free. A spokesman for Holiday Inn said: “Mother will get a complimentary drink plus a Bt500 spa voucher for her next visit.”
cover story • dave buckley
New Nordic shed light on their Atrium plans
Condo of 100 units above shops and supermarket
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14 REM 08/2015
he idea of incorporating plans for restaurants and shops into new condo developments is fairly commonplace here in Pattaya. But I’m not at all sure that the same can be said of building in a fully fledged supermarket! But that’s what New Nordic Group are planning for their latest development – Atrium on Pratumnak Soi 5 at the junction with Soi Trend Village. “It will be a supermarket very much in the style of a Foodland or a Food Mart,” said Group chief executive officer Kurt Svendheim, “with most of the products appealing more to foreign customers.” Floor of shops But the on-site offering will not end there. Above the ground-floor supermarket will be another floor full of retail shops and on the rooftop there will be a restaurant, fitness suite and swimming pool with pool bar alongside. There will also be an underground car park.
Atrium will further underline the New Nordic philosophy of providing just about everything their owners and guests need without having to travel too far from their unit. Already there are close to 50 shops and restaurants under the New Nordic banner all centred around their Pratumnak Soi 4 HQ. Atrium will be an eight storey project with floors 3-7 each having 20 units giving 100 in total. Already about 40 per cent of them have been snapped up. Sizes range from studio
l To learn more about New Nordic projects please ring +66 (0)3825 0025 or email sales@newnordic.com (note that the hyphen between new and nordic must be inserted). Below: CEO Kurt Svendheim.
to one- and two-bedroom apartments. The starting price is Bt3,320,000 for a 33.20sqm studio making the price per square metre on the lower floors easy to work out. The largest two-bedroom unit still available on the seventh floor covers 63.35sqm and is available at Bt7,602,000. Rental guarantee As an added incentive to buy New Nordic will offer a 10 per cent rental guarantee over five years. Details available on request. Prices for all units include kitchen, furniture and a decoration package and foreign ownership remains available on many of them. While group enthusiasm for the new project is high the New Nordic community on Pratumnak is already fairly self-sufficient even before the supermarket is built. Previously Kurt told me: “People really don’t need to leave New Nordic to enjoy themselves. We are big in F&B (food and beverage) and when our current plans are complete I
Please note that all photographs and 3D images on this spread are for illustrative purposes only.
Transportation For customers’ convenience and as an aid to running the business they have 45 cars and golf carts decked out in their distinctive orange livery – six years ago they had two. The number of swimming pools spread over their projects exceeds 20 and that figure will also increase soon. l Construction of the Atrium Condominium is due to start early next year with completion projected for the second quarter of 2017.
15 REM 08/2015
think we may become the biggest F&B operation in the city.” New Nordic’s wish to cater for every need means they have amenities such as their own petrol pump near their offices. They have car rentals and motorbike hire. They have their own travel agency with offices in Pattaya and Kurt’s home country – Norway – which helps ensure occupancy rates are always high. On any night they may have more than 5,000 people sleeping in rooms built by them.
one man’s view • dave buckley
the buck stops here ... a random selection of stuff and nonsense (Pt 1)
Water conundrum!
A
16 REM 08/2015
Ashes to hashes
What a mixed bag the first two Ashes Tests served up. At the end of the first one I was left wondering ... what do you say to a team-mate who put down the catch that probably cost you the match? I’m referring, of course, to when England’s Joe Root edged the second ball he faced to Australian wicket-keeper Brad Haddin (pictured) and was put down when his score was 0. Root went on to score 134 in that innings, earn the man of the match award and England won. But what a change at Lord’s. From having the upper hand after Cardiff England were humiliated. No other word for it. It was a big toss to lose but to concentrate on that would do the Aussies a dis-service. By the time you read this the third Test will be underway and maybe even finished given that neither of the first two lasted the whole five days. Who has the momentum? Must be Australia given their winning margin at Lord’s. Would like to be wrong!
few years back Bangkok was experiencing severe flooding yet recently the talk has been that a drought may result in tap water restrictions there! By the time this magazine is published the capital may have experienced enough rainfall to have seen off the problem. I hope that’s the case. My gripe, if you can call it that, is with some of the advice that was doing the rounds when the water shortage started being discussed. At the same time as advocating that all users be economical in their water usage the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority governor was quoted as saying that if the shortage became serious he would advise people to stock up on drinking water. He would also advise industrial users to stock some water in reserve. So let me see if I got this right ... what do you do when there is a water shortage? Stock up to counter it! Am I missing something here? Wouldn’t this “stock up” water come from already dwindling reserves? Anyone who has spent an amount of time here will tell you that when it rains, it really rains but where does all the precipitation disappear to? It’s tempting to prattle
on about how much water is wasted at Songkran. But I get sniffy when people try to tell me how to celebrate Christmas (or not celebrate it) so I think it best to take an “it’s your country” stance on the subject. Can we learn from the past, I wonder? Unfortunately, I am old enough to remember a drought that hit the UK back in 1976. Dirty cars At the time it was almost considered patriotic to drive around in a dirty car. A readymade excuse for me now. “Car looks crap!” “Yeah, I’m doing my bit to help out Thailand.” Hosepipes were banned and vans patrolled streets to ensure the ban was enforced. For reasons probably rightly regarded as very British the use of the toilet came in for a lot of attention. People were encouraged to place a brick in their cisterns to reduce the amount of water
used when flushing the loo. Or they were told to use the dirty water from the bowl used for dishwashing to flush the loo. It was the first time I can recall hearing the saying: “If it’s yellow, let it mellow. If it’s brown, flush it down.” I trust that needs no further explanation. Citizens were encouraged to shower instead of taking a bath. No hardship ... although showers were nothing like as prevalent as they are now. The suggestion was that baths should be taken in less than five inches of water and then the bath water be used to pour on the garden. There was even a group of housewives who forced a nearby golf course to stop using its sprinklers. Wonder how that would be received by the courses around here? So what plans does Thailand have if the drought really were to bite? They will dig artesian wells. It’s a plan!
How Daily Express cartoonist, Giles, saw the drought measures back in 1976 (left) when street standpipes were introduced (above).
Contact:
Eng: 089 833 6175 Thai: 090 465 4563
www.pattayarealty.com
Sale
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House 2 beds
Rent
ß40,000/month
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HS10216 East Pattaya
CR10803
North Pattaya
Sale ß11,000,000 Condo 2 beds
Rent
ß150,000/month
House 5 beds
CS10828 Naklua
HR10823 East Pattaya
Sale
ß19,700,000
House 3 beds
Rent
ß60,000/month
HS10849
Mabprachun
CR10848
Condo 3 bed
Wong Amat
Sale ß3,850,000
HS9482 East Pattaya
CS10819 CR10820
Sale ß14,500,000
House 4 Bed
Rent
ß27,000/month
Condo 1 Bed
HS10879 South Pattaya
CR10888 Pratumnak
Sale ß4,290,000 Condo 1 bed Rent ß27,000/month South Pattaya
Rent
ß80,000/month
House 4 bed
HR10833 East Pattaya
House 2 Bed
Rent
ß12,000/month
Condo Studio
CR10875 Pratumnak
GPS:Location 12.928045,100.883015 Our of�ice address 420/185 Moo.9 Pattaya 2nd Road 15, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel: 038 412301/038 412302 Email: info@pattayarealty.com
one man’s view • dave buckley
the buck stops here ... a random selection of stuff and nonsense (Pt 2)
Update these contacts
I
18 REM 08/2015
Is it time for a Womanchester United team? I saw an article on the BBC website after the recent Women’s World Cup Finals suggesting it was about time that Manchester United set up a women’s football team. Why not? is my response. A lot of big clubs such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Man City, Everton and Liverpool have them already so what’s holding United back? My hunch is that they feel there isn’t enough money in it, but I believe that soon the club might bend to popular pressure. I can’t see the ladies game catching up with the men financially or crowd-wise within my lifetime but the England team finishing third in the World Cup means there is probably never going to be a better time to take the plunge. By the by did you see the own goal that kept England out of the final? If the unlucky lady scorer tried another hundred times I doubt if she could have placed the ball more accurately in the top corner. Total unhappy fluke!
am not a fan of social media. It’s probably an age thing. There are too many aspects I find either downright annoying or too perplexing for me to get my 60+ year-old head around. A month or so back I sent a jokey happy birthday wish to the previous owner of this magazine after a prompt from Facebook reminding me that it was his birthday. Two of his sons replied saying that he had passed on. This embarrassed me greatly mainly because I felt bad that we had lost touch to the extent that I had been unaware of his passing. As a result I went on Facebook to try to see if there is any way I could report his demise. I couldn’t find any. Maybe it’s there and I just can’t work it out. To be clear – I don’t think it’s my place to say the account should be closed. That’s a call for close relatives. But I would hope there is a mechanism for turning off the birthday reminders. As a result, it is my intention not to send birthday wishes prompted by Facebook ever again. Mates might regard this as unfriendly but they will probably attribute my lack of good wishes to the fact that I am a miserable git and will not take umbrage. Facebook was founded in February of 2004 so it is about
11-and-a-half years old. I don’t know how many accounts are currently in the names of dead folk but, given the passage of time, I think it is easy to predict that further down the line this number may become unacceptably high. I’m not just singling out Facebook here. Linked-in keeps asking me if I know a Tim Coxon and would I care to add him to my professional network? Sadly Tim, who used to write for this magazine, also passed several years back. Who do you tell this to? Different jobs I also get asked if I want to link-up with all sorts of people who are no longer what they say they are. They are not charlatans, they have simply moved on in their lives. One friend has had four different jobs since he first signed up to my certain knowledge.
Staying in this digital age ... don’t mention the dangers of text messaging on mobile phones to me. Ever woken up and read the latest messages on your phone only to discover that you sent something fairly unpleasant to an old girlfriend at 2 in the morning? Unfortunately I have without any recollection of doing so which, in itself, is worrying. I believe that you can now get a “Drunk Mode” app for the iPhone that allows you, before you head out to imbibe, to block anyone you would prefer not to contact while feeling the worse for wear. You can unblock them at any time but have to be fit enough to answer a question such as what is 379+692+37 within a time limit. Yes we can all work it out – when sober! Sounds like a good idea to me. Now all I need to do is overcome the problem of signing in to the Apple store. Stupidly, when I bought my iPhone I got the lad in the store to load up many apps for me and now that they need renewing I don’t have his password. I’m sure there’s a way round this but I’m not convinced that I can stand the excitement. I refer you back to my article last month saying that I would be better off with a Dumbphone.
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events • promotions
Cyclists celebrate ASEAN founding
24 REM 08/2015
The month of August is dominated by Mother’s Day, the celebration of the Queen’s birthday, on the 12th. See Page 10. However, there are other events taking place this month worthy of note. One such is the One Ride for ASEAN, a road bike race, which will take place in picturesque Nong Yai district, Chonburi province. The race is
organised by AMA-events and sponsored by the CIMB THAI bank. It will be staged on Saturday 8 August, the date when ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) was established back in 1967 and the venue is the Nong Yai municipal district office. Three distances will be covered: 44km (one lap), 88km (two laps); plus a non-competitive fun ride of
20km for families. Entry fees are Bt688 per rider for one lap and Bt988 for the 88km race. The fun ride will also be Bt688 to enter. Part of these fees will be donated for youth’s activity, a CSR project by CIMB THAI bank, and they include the following for all riders taking part: souvenir T-shirt; a complimentary bike bottle in goodie bag; lunch buffet at finish line; medal for all finishers; trophies for three winners in each category with the exception of the fun ride. There will also be the chance to win special lucky draw prizes – five prizes of air tickets for two, domestic or ASEAN countries; Octo Bean Bag, two prizes each valued at Bt3,500; CIMB THAI luggage (pictured), two prizes each valued at Bt2,500. Email: info@active-asia.com or visit the website: www.amaevents.com for more information. For a complete change of pace fans of Swing music will be interested to note that on Friday 14th at 7.45pm there will be a Mantra Tribute concert staged. This year, the Mantra Tribute is dedicated to “The Kings of Swing”, which include Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Ray Charles, Michael Bublé and more. Their well-loved songs will be rendered by Barry Upton’s Swing Band. More than 40 swing songs
will be performed during the evening. Mantra’s chef is creating a special set menu to enhance the night of music, for only Bt2,600++ per person, including a five-course menu or à la carte with a supplement of Bt650 ++ and free souvenir T-shirt for everyone. For reservations and more information, please contact Mantra Restaurant & Bar at +66 (0) 3842-9591. Elephant polo Towards the end of the month (27th-30th) the popular King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament will see 16 teams vie for the trophy at the VR Sports Club in Bangkok. Don’t forget Jesters for Kids is early next month and Maroon 5 will be in concert at Bangkok’s Impact Arena in September as part of their Asia tour which also takes in an appearance at the Singapore Grand Prix. Also to look out for next month is the opening of Murphy’s Irish Pub in Soi Khao Noi on the site of what used to be the PJ bar. Steve Murphy, formerly of Murphy’s Law fame in Soi LK Metro, is the man at the helm and he plans to create a good venue for all the family. Sports lovers should note he is installing 10+ TVs.
Details of published events are correct at the time of going to press but are subject to change without notice. Readers are advised to check with event organisers.
special report • dave buckley
Five reasons why this condo project expects to succeed
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26 REM 08/2015
hen the X2 Vibe Pattaya SeaPhere development opened their showroom last month they had already reserved 60 per cent of their projected 65 units. The showroom is just a little way up the road from the actual development close to Ban Amphur beach in Na-Jomtien Soi 38. It’s an area that Chanin (Chane) Vanijwongse, chief executive officer of the Habitat 5 developers, believes has a great future. The positioning is one of the five key reasons why Chane is convinced X2 Vibe Pattaya SeaPhere will be a success. He lists them as... Project’s USP l Location: “It’s an outstanding location just 100m back from the beach and the majority of the units will have sea views,” he explained. A golf cart ferried me down to the beach so I could see the area for myself. It was such a short ride that I felt an little embarrassed about not walking. It was a Thursday and no deckchairs were allowed out so the area was a lot quieter than I expected. Chane added: “I think that Ban
1 Amphur has one of the most beautiful beaches in this part of Thailand. “Na-Jomtien is a growing area. Soon there will be three water parks (Cartoon Network, Ramayana and Nusa) to the south of us; there will be a new expressway linking Bangkok to Rayong which will have a spur road joining the Sukhumvit near Ocean Portofino; I understand that a station on the high-speed rail link will be positioned near the Ambassador; and U-Tapao will soon host four times as many passengers as it does now. “All these factors make this an ideal location for a second home for those resident in Bangkok and good for future growth.” l Branded: Habitat 5 decided to partner with the well known brand of X2 (Cross to) on the management of the development. Chance concedes this has resulted in quite a long name for the condo project (it was originally going to be just Pattaya SeaPhere) but he is sure that the addition of the X2 name has helped raise its profile. “X2 will manage the whole building on our behalf which means the apartments will have five star hotel-style services,” he said. “For example there will be a concierge
2 1: The rooftop pool looking towards the bar. 2: The planned exterior of the building. Corner units will have views to three aspects. 3: The skybar will have great views out to sea. 4: Interior of the rooftop restaurant. 5: The sunken garden which will run around the car park area. 6: Water features are an important part of the design. 7: The lounge area in a typical one-bed unit. 8: The bedroom area and ensuite bathroom. A sliding panel can separate the bedroom from the main living area.
and butler service available. On the rooftop X2 will maintain the poolside bar and restaurant.” Chane says that there are other branded residents being established in the area “but these are generally priced at Bt10m+ whereas our average price is below Bt5m.” Rental programme l Investment: Buyers will be welcome to take part in a rental programme organised by the developers. In this they can earn a return of seven per cent per year over a five year period which will be paid to them on a monthly basis. At the end of the five years they will have an option to renew. “This means that X2 will maintain the unit during that time and carry out any repairs,” said Chane. l Vacations: Those who enroll in the rental programme will be entitled to stay at their own development or other X2 resorts for days that equal up to seven times the daily rental value of their own unit. To explain ... if, for example, the unit an investor puts into the programme attracts a daily rental of Bt3,000 the owners will be entitled to Bt21,000-worth of nights in X2-run properties. So, if the project they wish
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High privacy “We could have included up to 100 units in our eight storeys but we decided to limit the number to 65 to give buyers high privacy.” Half of the unit sales have been to Bangkok-based investors who are involved in Habitat 5’s The Ville project close to Soi Chaiyapruk 2 and the railway line. Many of these are
in the 30-45 age bracket. When fully sold Chane expects there will be a 70:30 split between Thai and foreign owners. “At the Ville we are sold out and have just a handful of villas left to complete. We got good feedback on The Ville and have learned much from our experience there. This is part of the reason we wanted to partner with a top brand like X2 on the running of this new project.”
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Unit types The majority of the units are onebedroom ranging from 30-35sqm with a start price of Bt2.84m. There are 12 corner units which project from the rest of the building to allow threeway views. These 54sqm units are described as one-bed-plus because they have an additional room which could house a single bed or provide a nice-sized study area. Each will have a Jacuzzi-type bath on the balcony. In conclusion Chane said: “Several projects have been put on hold recently but we are not scared of the market situation because we are doing something different. This area is still growing a lot and I expect our focus to remain in and around Pattaya for the next three-five years.” |
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to stay in rents out rooms at Bt4,000 a night they could stay for up to five nights. Note that the offer is subject to some “black-out” periods. X2 have 10 projects in places such as Australia, Bali, Chiang Mai, Koh Koot, Kui Buri, River Kwai and Samui. A full list can be found on their website – www.x2resorts.com. l Furnished: All units will come fully furnished to five star hotel standards. If you visit the showroom it’s a case of “what you see is what you get” with the exception of some ornamental pieces. The units equipped right down to the linen on the beds and the curtains at the windows. Air conditioners are supplied throughout. “I believe that when you add all these consideration together our project is very different from the rest,” said Chane.
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irregular columnist • bart walters
American journalist and property investor Bart Walters lived in Thailand for more than 13 years, first in Bangkok, then in Phuket and Pattaya then back to Bangkok before rediscovering Pattaya. He is currently back in the USA but continues to have business interests in Thailand. Bart publishes his inside views on Thailand property market in various print and online publications including International Living and Escape America. He can be contacted at bkkbart@gmail.com
Casinos in Thailand? Pattaya could be the first to know
T
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he rumours of state sanctioned casino gambling in Thailand have simmered in the political saucepan for decades. But “simmer” is the operative word. For years I’ve overheard and participated in barstool banter and networking natter about legalised gambling in Thailand. But the clamour for casinos has never risen above a dull roar. Nobody has had a real plan. No influential politicians or business bigwigs have dared to throw down the gambling gauntlet. And everyone knows why. As long as the oldest of the old guard at the pinnacle of Thailand’s power structure are opposed to it … well it doesn’t matter how many jobs it would create or how many billions of baht in tax revenue it would generate … it’s just not going to happen. Out of respect … or out of fear … nobody wants to fight that fight. Audible din But the dull roar has amplified to an audible din in recent months. One outspoken soul in the person of about-to-retire National Police Chief Somyot Poompunmuang has piped up and expressed his desire
to see gambling legalised. He and a group of 12 members of the National Reform Council (NRC) calling themselves NRC Patriots proposed that the country follow the lead of its neighbours Myanmar, Cambodia and Malaysia and begin with a legal casino in Pattaya. People of means The national police chief clarified his concept when he weighed in on a proposal to legalise casinos by suggesting curbs be imposed on who could enter and gamble there. Even though General Somyot is only months from retirement, he said he would be happy to be the first police chief to implement the controversial idea. The general envisions a string of regional casinos which would be open to “people of means” and not to residents of the local area. A Bangkok resident could not try his luck in a Bangkok casino, but would have to travel further afield such as to Phuket, on the rationale he would be bringing income from a different area. In any event, the national police chief said all players must have “strong” finances, to help guard against poor people ending
The national police chief said all players must have ‘strong’ finances, to help guard against poor people ending up even poorer as a result of gambling losses.
up even poorer as a result of gambling losses. General Samyot has described illegal gambling in Thailand as “rampant” and his solution to the problem is legalising it. He says it is the only way to combat the scourge of illegal gambling. The general is pushing for a referendum vote so people all over the country can decide. He has said that a public opinion poll will be set up on-line starting September 1 to take the country’s temperature on the issue. General Samyot and his crew are hoping to attach the issue to the upcoming referendum on the new draft constitution. Pragmatic advantages While the police chief espouses this kind of “reverse psychology” cure for illegal gambling dens, other NRC Patriots focus on the list of pragmatic advantages that have been the platform for the casino movement all long. Proper casinos in Thailand would create thousands of jobs and breathe economic life into areas suffering economic strife. The flagging tourism industry could
irregular columnist • bart walters
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use the attraction of casinos to more effectively compete for tourists in the Southeast Asia region. The much sought after “high value tourist” like those visiting Macau and Singapore would be immediately attracted to new casinos in Thailand. Supporters also point out that money flowing out to neighbouring countries that have legalised gambling would be redirected back to Thailand instead; so there is a “screw your neighbour” facet that appeals to many Thais. More important to political leaders is the fact revenue from taxes would go a long way to fund all these new infrastructure projects the government keeps promising. Tuning up the Thai education system to help young workers compete with other countries in the AEC would also be an judicious use of the gambling windfall. Theoretically, all the money from evil and sinful practice of gambling would be turned into positive fuel for the Thai economy. Theoretically. Not Yes So let’s get this question answered already … are we going to get casino gambling in Thailand or not? We saw a very Thai version of an answer to this question last month. Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha had remained neutral on the issue, but then he announced: “I can tell you that no casino will materialise today. The government has not made any decision on it.” He added that he had instructed General Somyot to stop speaking in support of casinos. The Prime Minister also said he thought
casinos could not be set up in Thailand right now. The Prime Minister was asked if casinos would be created in Thailand during his government. “No, they won’t,” he responded. “The legalisation of casinos will take time. Studies and research must be conducted first.” He didn’t exactly say “no” … he didn’t exactly say “yes”. He offered up a very Thai alternative to the yes or no question … “mai chai” or “not yes”. So it sounds like the door is still open … or, to be more precise, “not closed”. Plan meet need About a hundred years ago when I was on high school debate team, we were instructed in the use of what is known as a “plan meet need” argument. For me, the answer to the casino supporters isn’t “oh my … no, no, no … gambling is immoral and sinful therefore we shouldn’t do it”. If we used that rationale large numbers in Pattaya would be unemployed. The real argument against legal gambling is to question its ability to meet urgent economic needs. If only well-heeled individuals are allowed to gamble, how would that stop the operation of illegal gambling dens? As long as law enforcers are willing to take bribes to look the other way, the illegal casinos are going to operate. Currently in Thailand, an illegal lottery system co-exists right alongside the state-sponsored game. It is likely that legalised casinos would have a similar non-effect on illegal dens.
He (the prime minister) didn’t exactly say ‘no’ ... he didn’t exactly say ‘yes’. He offered up a very Thai alternative to the yes or no question ... ‘mai chai’ or ‘not yes’. So it sounds like the door is still open ... or, to be more precise, ‘not closed’.
Could the government really stop the outflow of gambling money to other countries? If local players are forced to prove they are people of “means” and suffer gross invasions of their privacy, I doubt seriously you could keep them from flying, driving or walking across the border to fritter their money away in another country anonymously. Most importantly, would the revenue generated from legal casinos really be enough to energise this economy? There is no plan on the table that meets that need. General Prayut is correct to say we need to conduct studies and research. Legalised gambling is not a magic wand. When we say “casinos” are we talking about those shabby hovels across the Cambodian border with double decker buses parked out front? Or, are we talking about Marina Bay Sands in Singapore (pictured above)? No room for amateurs There are 22 “casinos” and “entertainment complexes” that rely on legal gambling in neighbouring countries and more are on the way. Since Thailand has no experience with setting up such facilities, how could we make sure we are doing it right? How could the government ensure that the right breed of tourist is attracted and a substantial amount of revenue is generated? How could they ensure that quality jobs are created? How could Thailand go from having only the lottery and horse racing to supporting full blown casinos packed with wealthy punters? Let the professionals do it … that’s how. Las Vegas subsidiary Marina Bay
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irregular columnist • bart walters
Sands has expressed its interest in running a casino and convention complex in Thailand. Marina Bay Sands Pte Ltd vice president for communications Krist Boo said that the company, if given permission, hopes to build a casino in Thailand similar to Singapore. “We have been searching for new investment not only in Thailand but also all places. Although Thailand has no casino act yet, if this [is] about to happen, it is very interesting,” said Boo. The comments were made to Thai journalists visiting the company’s Marina Bay Sands integrated resort in Singapore. It has also been reported that Sands executives had previously approached the Thai government about building an integrated resort in Thailand, but were turned down. Las Vegas Sands Corp has also expressed interest in opening a casino in Vietnam but conditioned its interest on a change of law there that would allow local residents to gamble. Sands chairman and CEO Sheldon Adelson also said during Sands’ 2014 Q4 earnings call that the company remains focused on potential development opportunities in Japan, Korea and Vietnam, believing that integrated resort development could bring benefits to these countries in terms of business and leisure tourism, employment and economic growth. Hopefully, should Thailand make the move to allow casinos, the powers-that-be will see the advantage of allowing a top notch money factory like Marina Bay Sands to build the first complex. If
the goal is to prop up the economy with Bt500bn+ in tax revenue, there is no room for amateurs. Location, location, location What should either excite or enrage folks around here on either side of this issue is the fact Pattaya is the favoured choice of location for a big gaming complex. In public statements by General Somyat and other members of the NRC Patriots, they have repeatedly pointed to Pattaya as the spot most likely to receive the most bang-forthe-buck in terms of a successful casino. Even if you don’t agree with the logic of legalised gambling, most of us would agree Pattaya is the ideal locale. By all accounts we have no shortage of empty hotel rooms begging for heads on beds. We are strategically located one hour from Suvarnabhumi International Airport. We have our own international airport at U-Tapao that is expanding as we speak. A chartered gambling junket flying straight into U-Tapao International is easy to envision isn’t it? Even though Pattaya is already a world renowned international holiday destination, the more jaded among us would point out that Pattaya is already infamous for all the social ills that usually come with legalised gambling. Prostitution, organised crime, drug abuse … we already have all that … how bad could a casino be? The only thing new a casino would bring to Pattaya is money. Sometimes “it couldn’t hurt” is an accurate answer to the gambling question.
A well turned out and classy casino complex in Pattaya would send it over the top as a world-class destination. Hotels would fill up ... local businesses would staff up and property prices would shoot up.
Those of us who prefer to focus on the positive side envision a sophisticated entertainment venue like those at Marina Bay Sands planted right on the southern beaches. (Somewhere around the Ambassador City complex would be perfect wouldn’t it?) For years Pattaya has struggled to somehow overshadow the spectre of being known as Thailand’s brothelby-the-sea. We’ve constructed ultraluxury high-rise condos. We’ve built swanky beachfront shopping malls connected to five star hotels. Water parks, Las Vegas-style shows and dozens of fabulous places to enjoy a cocktail and good meal have all gone a long way to help Pattaya expand its range of visitors and increase its attractiveness to a better brand of tourist. A well turned out and classy casino complex in Pattaya would send it over the top as a world-class destination. Hotels would fill up … local businesses would staff up and property prices would shoot up. Legalised gambling might not be good for Thailand overall, but it sure would help Pattaya out of its current slump. If this issue goes to a referendum, I’d expect Chonburi Province would end up in the “yes” column. Answer the tough questions So let’s answer the tough questions again shall we? Is Thailand going to follow its neighbours and legalise gambling? Probably. Will it be just what the doctor ordered to energise the Thai economy? Possibly. When will this miracle take place? We in Pattaya should be the first to know. Bart Walters
EY house
Security
special report • dave buckley
Showhouses are snapped up as fast as they can build them
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I
guess it’s a nice problem to have but it seems that no sooner do the people behind Lake Side Court 5 close to Lake Mabprachan get a showhouse built than a prospective buyer comes along, decides they love the house and wants to buy it. “Which plot are you interested?” “This one!” File that under “offers you can’t refuse”. But the developers are not at all troubled by this “must have it” trend. “Our houses are in varying stages of construction – we have five under way at present – so we are happy that we will always have something to show even if in some cases it will not be the fully finished article,” said partner Alan Wilson. Alan is a partner of Dr Veera Ladnongkun along with three others in VL Housebuilder Co Ltd who have previously developed four more Lake Side Courts plus Siam Gardens all in the same area over the past 12 years. LSC5 comprises 20 plots ranging in size from 162-191tw. The prices are Bt8.25m for the smallest plot; the
shopping mall might be involved. Whichever you believe I think it is safe to say that the land on the right travelling away from the city along Soi Siam Country Club just before the lake has been levelled for a reason. There are four golf courses with three kilometres of the project. LSC5 house designs are all substantially the same though if people reserve one early enough they can, of course, put their own mark on their properties. Arch inserted For example, in the house I was looking at an arch had been inserted to link two of the four bedrooms. “I understand the owner might use the second bedroom as a really large walk-in wardrobe,” said Alan. If he does, it will be enormous. The two-storey houses are marketed as having four bedrooms, all with en suite bathrooms. Plus there is a further bathroom on the ground floor. Also downstairs off the main living room lies a further
Three of the partners (from top down): Dr Veera Ladnongkun, Alan Wilson and Khun Rachapol.
room that could be utilised as a fifth bedroom or a large study. There is no shortage of space in these houses. If it doesn’t suit to use the ground floor room as a study there is more than enough space on the upstairs landing to place a desk, chair and computer. Other features of the houses are that all come with a decent sized swimming pool that has a Jacuzzi in the corner. Each will have its own bore hole for a personal water supply. European-style kitchens are included as standard. There is amply understairs storage and outside the car port can happily accommodate up to four cars. All the windows are uPVC and cabling will be ready installed to allow WiFi access. The site is well signposted from the lake and the site office is open seven days a week. “If you happen to find the office unattended just ring the number on the door and we can be with you in five minutes,” said Alan. |
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largest was Bt8.8m. It is one of the showhomes that has been sold. All houses have approximately 300sqm of living space. They have sold five plots in the first six months and are hoping that the whole development will complete within three years. “I doubt if you will find anything to compare with our prices in this area,” said Alan as he showed me around the largest plot which is very close to completion. “I believe we are very competitive in our pricing. For something matching our high specifications you could expect to pay more than Bt10m because this is a very up-andcoming area thanks to all the new infrastructure planned for here.” The developers say they can organise mortgages of up to 15 years for those who are resident in Thailand. Alan told me that nearby they were expecting a big name supermarket chain to set up on the large plot of land near the reservoir. I said I had heard perhaps a Robinson’s
meet the agent • dave buckley
Bright idea to open on the Dark Side
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bout nine months ago Coastal Real Estate decided to open an office in East Pattaya, the so-called “Dark Side”. It is a move they look back on with much satisfaction and no regrets. After considering a few locations to the west of the Sukhumvit Road, Coastal decided to opt for a corner plot, double shophouse location in Soi Siam Country Club just short of the main crossroads there. “Here we are right in the middle of the housing market,” Coastal managing director Kevin Mattson told me as we sat in the bright and airy office. “We can be in Huay Yai, Nongplalai or the centre of Pattaya all in about the same time. That works for us.” Kevin set up Coastal just over five years ago with an office in Soi Diana in central Pattaya which the company have retained. Then the staff comprised just him and a Thai lady named Tarm who remains with them to this day. Big enough “Now we have more than 15 people and we definitely needed to find an office big enough to accommodate everyone,” said Kevin. The first office in Soi Diana is very close to many inner city developments and, as such, has a thriving condo sales and rental business. As one might expect, the Soi Siam Country Club office is much more about houses than it is about apartments. “Soi Siam Country Club works
for us on several levels,” said Kevin. “Rentals, for example, are drastically different when compared to the middle of town. Also we get great exposure to home owners here. We have big signs outside on what is a major road. We have raised our profile, no doubt about it. Another important consideration is that staff really like working here.” Previously Coastal had a second office in Jomtien in a road that runs parallel with the Immigration soi. “Recruiting the right staff and retaining them was more of an issue there so we decided to call a halt on that experiment,” said Kevin. “Also we did not get the number of walk-in customers we expected.” Walk-ins are not really expected at the Soi Siam Country Club offices although there is ample space to allow potential clients to park up. “This office’s function is more operational. Most of our client base is gained from the Internet. We chose this space mainly because it’s a very pleasant working environment,” said Kevin, admitting the fact that he lives a 10-minute drive away didn’t hurt. A typical working day for Kevin is to visit the Soi Siam Country Club office in the morning to handle all emails and messages before heading into Soi Diana in the afternoon. Although Soi Siam Country Club seems well placed for the new infrastructure projects supposedly heading Pattaya’s way Kevin is reluctant to use these as a reason to promote the East Pattaya area. “When promoting property to
‘We get great exposure to home owners here. We have big signs outside on what is a major road. We have raised our profile, there’s no doubt about it.’ – Kevin Mattson who is pictured above with several members of his evergrowing team.
prospects we focus on what is rather than what will be,” he said. “Once these road, rail and airport projects happen, then we’ll start talking about them.” What is real for Kevin, however, is the influence of the Chinese on the local market. He has four Chinese speakers among his staff and he is definitely seeing the benefits. Chinese buyers “Six of our sales this month have been to Chinese buyers and it’s still only the 21st,” he said. “This is what’s happening in the marketplace at the moment. Business in the first six months of this year has exceeded that of the same period last year and I attribute a large percentage of that to the Chinese market.” The Chinese, he says, are mainly buying condos in the Bt2-4m price bracket but adds that house rentals are also increasing. He said: “I think the Chinese market will prove to be bigger than the Russian one. The Chinese have less than half the distance to travel to get here. Spending just a weekend in Thailand is not out of the question. The Chinese also have a much bigger population so a potentially much bigger client base.” Does Kevin look forward to the next five years with optimism? “Sure,” he said. “We’re straight and transparent people who work hard to give people the service they want. We seek long-term clients, not oneoffs and that’s why we expect to be around for a long time.” |
www.coastalrealestatepattaya.com
We Want Your Property!
We have customers from around the world currently looking to buy or rent property in the Pattaya area.
If you have a property in the Pattaya area that you would like to sell or rent. We would like to list it on our website or feature it in our monthly newsletter.
Please contact us at:
info@coastalrealestatepattaya.com 038-421-580 Mobile: 081-269-0742 (English) 086-571-4737 (Thai) 216/62 Moo 10 (Soi 13) Soi Diana
038-190-925 Mobile: 081-269-0742 (English) 080-222-4560 (Thai) 519/163-4 Moo 6, Siam Country Club
mystery columnist • our man at large
The publisher of this magazine recently responded to a ‘wish your friend a happy birthday’ prompt on Facebook only to discover that the friend had died. He asked me to offer my thoughts on the social media generation.
Ups and downs of social media
T
he last 10 to 15 years has seen a massive rise in social media with seemingly everyone from the Everyday Joe to the Pope having an account of some description. We can access social media from computers, tablets and, of course, our mobile phones so we are always available and can always catch up on the latest news. Our mobile phones are now tracking devices along with encyclopedias meaning that we can find anything we want as and when we need it.
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Important role Of course social media has a number of benefits and does indeed play an important role in the modern world. For those of us who live overseas social media is an excellent way to keep in touch with family and friends back in our home countries.
Another good thing about social media is the fact that news gets broken quickly, often by people who are at the scene.
We can leave messages, view posts as well as passing comments on their day-to-day lives and activities. We don’t feel that we are so far away and don’t feel like we have completely lost contact with everyone from our past. For this reason social media has certainly brought the world closer together. Another good thing about social media is the fact that news gets broken quickly, often by people who are at the scene. The can play an important role as a public service such as people avoiding the scene of an accident or people turning up to enjoy more positive events. The world can be informed in a matter of seconds when news breaks regardless of where it is on the planet. Some people may see this as intrusive but if it is used in a correct and responsible manner everyone can gain the benefits. Social media also serves an
important role when it come to getting messages into the mainstream. An example of this would be after the recent Himalayan earthquake when people were trying to track down relatives. This worked both ways, those that had been in the area were able to let people know that they were safe while those who were trying to find out if loved ones were safe could also spread the word in a manner that up until recently would have proved impossible. Useful tool Some people will argue that it is a bad thing but one thing that social media is frequently used for is advertising. There are always two sides to this ... if you are the business doing the advertising you will no doubt see it as a very useful tool, if you are the recipient of unsolicited emails or posts you may have other ideas! Most people are happy to receive
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mystery columnist • our man at large
some advertising so long as they are not bombarded by it so for this reason I have included it in the positive uses of social media. As with all things in life something that has a number of positives will also have its fair share of negatives and social media certainly has these. Gone are the days when we could pop out the house for a few hours and people couldn’t contact us. With Facebook Messenger and Twitter plus the other forms of social media that are around we are now always available – regardless of whether we want to be or not. Connected to this issue is the fact that our mobile phones and social media now let everyone know exactly where we are.
Gone are the
Tracking device Of course this has a number of bonuses but I am not sure I really want people knowing where I am when I have gone out for a quiet pint – I am more than capable of letting those people who I want to join me know when I am without some app doing this on my behalf when I haven’t taken the necessary precautions to disable my tracking device! Talking of going out for a pint, this can be another time when social media can be the ruin of people. I think most of us at one time or
and Twitter
days when we could pop out of the house for a couple of hourse and people couldn’t contact us ... with Facebook Messenger
we are now always available – regardless of whether we want to be or not.
another have posted something when we have been drunk that in hindsight was not very wise. Yes they can be deleted but usually after they have been read by everyone, especially those who you didn’t want to see it! We all know that we shouldn’t post these things be we can’t help ourselves when we have had a couple more than we should have! See “Drunk Mode” reference on Page 20. Uncanny knack Social media also has a knack of exposing you when you least expect it and when you least want it. The vast majority of people now have cameras on their phones so you never know when you may inadvertently appear on someone’s photos. These photos have an uncanny knack of showing you as being in places that maybe you shouldn’t be. The fact that we use social media to keep in touch with people is great but sometimes we lose contact. Sadly sometimes when we lose touch it is not in the best circumstances and we can quite easily put our foot in it when we don’t know the full story. This can prove to be extremely embarrassing as well as causing unnecessary pain when things are posted in the public domain. For example the publisher of this magazine recently sent a happy
birthday wish to someone he had lost contact with only for the man’s sons to reply saying that their father had died the previous year. Perhaps accounts should be suspended if inactive for six months or more in a bid to address this. My personal bugbear with social media is the fact that it stops people from actually talking to people who are in the same room as them. People are more interested in chatting with someone via a message than talking to the person sat next to them. This is when I feel that social media becomes anything but social and to be quite honest is thoroughly anti-social. Surely if you are in someone’s company you can actually talk to them and continue your messaging later? Unfortunately it seems too few people can manage to do this and in today’s modern world people seem to expect instant responses. Art of conversation As always space is running short. Social media plays an extremely important role in all of our lives and certainly has a number of plus points. Used in the correct manner social media can improve all of lives in so many ways but let’s not forget the art of conversation. Until next time, keep enjoying social media and the Land of Smiles.
Location Set in the stunning mountains of Bang Saray, The Willows exclusive development of 14 modern villas. Situated just off the highway 332 this making a fantastic location and very easy for travelling, only 30 minutes away from Pattaya and less than 15 minutes away from U-tapao international airport which has big plans for expansion with flights from Europe, Russia and China.
SHOW HOUSE NOW OPEN VILLAS FROM 7.8MB
Owner finance available on a 50% down payment with 0% interest for 3 years Villa types The villas offer Ultra-sleek design yet practical for everyday living, with a choice of 3 to 5 spacious contemporary bedrooms all with en-suites. The outside lounge-dining area is an architectural delight, as the floor above appears to be unsupported, this large open space is excellent for family time and entertaining guests. The estate consists of 14 villas with two types, “Villa A” is our single storey, 3 bedroom, 4 bathroom home with a total living area of 172 sq.m, prices starting from 7.8 million baht and “Villa B” our two storey house with 262 sq.m of living space starting from 10.75 million baht. Both types of villas include a carport for two cars and plot sizes range from 120 to 165 talang wah (480-660 Sq.m). Situated in a 24 hour gated community with CCTV.
Nominated for the Best Villa in the Eastern Seaboard of Thailand
Adam 092-472-5743 Eng Atirach 089-249-7047 Thai www.willowsbangsaray.com Info@willowsbangsaray.com
bars • restaurants
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 Booze Lounge: situated on the Dark Side in Soi Khao Talo this airconditioned bar combines low prices with good music. Tel: 087 747 8555, email: info@loungebarpattaya.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@caddyshack-pattaya.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@ jamesons-pattaya.com Metro: an air-conditioned sports bar boasting free pool tables and numerous screens on which to watch top sports events. Soi LK Metro, 33/8536, Moo 10 close to Soi Buakhow. Tel: 038 425 874, email: info@metroapartments-pattaya.com Punch & Judy: this is a London-style pub with good food and competitive prices. Frequent promotions. Almost opposite the Caddy Shack in Soi 17. Tel: 038 413255
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Shamrock: fun and lively Britishrun ‘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
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
Mata Hari: close to the Thappraya Road turn-off towards Pratumnak. Specialises in fine European and Thai cuisine at prices less than you might expect. Tel: 038 259 799, email: info@ mataharirestaurant.com
Alt Heidelberg: German sausages and imported sauerkraut dominate the menu, good location. 273 M10, Pattaya Beach Road, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 421 258
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
Blue Olive: Slightly tucked away off Thepprasit Soi 8 this restaurant it worth digging a little to find. Mediterranean food is the speciality. Chef also produces Mexican food. Tel: 038 416 285, email: blueolivepattaya@hotmail.com
Pig and Whistle: British pub grub in ample portions served by well-trained staff. 217/34 Moo 10, Pattaya City. Tel: 038 361 315, Fax: 038 361 272, email: info@pigandwhistlepattaya.com
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@brunospattaya.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 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 M10, 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
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-can-eat 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: bar and restaurant serving traditional Irish pub-style fayre and drinks with daily food specials. In Jomtien Complex which also has daily promotions such as “Toss the Boss”. If he loses the drinks are on him. 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, open: 07.00-24.00
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wining • dining
restaurant review ... New Nordic Steak Grill & Winery, Pratumnak Soi 4
Steaks from NZ is their speciality
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f you regard yourself as something of a carnivore then you will probably feel at very much at home in New Nordic Steak Grill & Winery which can be found in their resort on Pratumnak Soi 4. Look for the orange signs, you can’t miss them. It should quickly be made clear that, despite the restaurant’s name, steaks are not all they do. Don’t forget that the “grill” part of the name can be applied to all sorts of dishes. But I think it is fair to say that steaks, especially using meat imported from New Zealand, is what the restaurant prides itself on so it would have been remiss not to try one. But first I was encouraged to order a simple Scandinavian dish of shell-on prawns which they feature every Tuesday. The prawns are accompanied by three dipping sauces – a spicy chilli, Thousand Island dressing and my favourite, garlic mayonnaise. Messy, but nice! The bowl was big and the serving of prawns was generous, more than enough for the four people in my party. As is quite common nowadays at restaurants a selection of breads was served as a matter of course. These were also good for soaking up the three sauces with the prawns. Tenderloin split into three To follow I chose the “Trio Steak” which is a tenderloin fillet divided into three that has different rubs applied – Caribbean jerk, smokey paprika and cajun dry spice. I could have chosen the New Nordic Steak with pumpkin, the Parmesan & Salami Steak which is self-explanatory, or the Chevré Steak which is accompanied by a red wine sauce with honey. The more traditional offerings such as Pepper Steak are also available. I requested my steak be cooked medium
as I find too much pinkness off-putting. Philistine, huh? New Nordic Steak Grill & Winery use top quality meat and I know that the best steak can be eaten rare but too rare is not to my taste. The meat was cooked to perfection, I’m pleased to report. My wife ordered one of her favourites – Lamb Shank. She likes meat on the bone whereas I’m the opposite, feeling that taking meat off a bone is too much like hard work. Is that where the term “bone idle” comes from? Research purposes I sampled her lamb shank – just for research purposes it should be said. Excellent, it just fell away from the bone as expected. My wife could not finish the shank, just too much of it. So that left her feeling full. Me? When doing these reviews I try to have three courses for an all round (not referring to my girth) experience. I chose the Cheese Plate assortment, a good variety of cheeses neatly presented on a long, thin platter accompanied by strawberries and crispbread. This served to complete the meal nicely. Next time I might try the Parfait à L’Orange which is a frozen orange ice creamlike dessert with chocolate which has been infused with alcohol, usually an orange-based liquor such as Grand Marnier which is just fine by me. In closing I should make mention of the décor. As you can see in the picture at the top of the page the restaurant has a classic look to it. Not shown in the picture is the wall covered by a wine rack which adds to the refined ambience – and the restaurant’s name! As Arnie S said in his Terminator role: “I’ll be back!” |
motoring • dr iain corness
The toll on our roads
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sually I shy away from contentious subjects in this column, as it was designed to be a lighthearted look at things motoring. But sometimes a lighthearted look may not be appropriate. For the nation’s road toll, this is one of those times. What prompted me on this line of thought was the fact that recently I was almost run over by song taews running the red light on the zebra crossing on Second Road. For a while now Beach Road now has had pedestrian traffic lights every 200 metres. However, unfortunately, all these do is to instill a false sense of security for those on foot. Prime factors Now when we look at the road toll, what were prime factors? l 80 per cent of those killed are aged between 15-60 years; l 75 per cent of the people killed were male; l 80 per cent were riding motorcycles; l 85 per cent had no crash helmet; l More than 50 per cent of those injured had blood alcohol levels above the legal limit of 0.05. (Figures for blood alcohol levels of those killed are notoriously under-reported to avoid police/insurance problems.)
So what has been done? Even back in 2001 the BBC reported that the Thai government was considering cutting short the country’s main holiday to reduce the number of traffic accidents and discourage Thais from using the roads. Impractical and rejected That is like saying they will ban all motorcycles from the road over holiday weekends. Impractical and would be rejected by the population. In December 2010, the Thaksin University in Songkhla, published a treatise on their website, saying 12,000 Thai people per year are killed, or 33 per day and doubling during the Songkran festival and New Year’s Day. The item went on to say that, “There are three major causes of road accidents in Thailand that are drivers’ behaviours, mechanical failure, and road conditions.” This idea that mechanical failures are a prime factor has also been seized upon by previous governments, with a government spokesman saying that about 50,000 vocational students would be sent to checkpoints and car maintenance spots across the country to provide vehicle inspection services over the New Year break. It does not need a Mensa IQ
It does not need a Mensa IQ score to see that diverting attention to vehicle maintenance is not going to change the road toll. Above, left: A not uncommon sight – too many people on the bike and two youngsters in precarious positions, but the dad does have a helmet on! Above, right: Half and half for helmets earns a police caution.
score to see that diverting attention to vehicle maintenance is not going to change the road toll, but driver behaviour and alcohol are related and have a direct affect on the total number of people killed. However, the greatest numbers should be attacked as the first priority. Some 80 per cent of fatalities come from motorcycle riding. If it were possible to prevent these, you would have lowered the death toll by 80 per cent, but that is a Utopian notion and not possible. However, if you could get the 85 per cent who were not wearing helmets to wear one of a decent standard then you would produce an immediate lowering of the annual toll. Policed properly This is not Utopian. Legislation regarding the wearing of helmets is already in place – if this was policed properly, and it is not difficult to spot a motorcycle rider not wearing a helmet, then you would see a dramatic fall in the numbers. The salient figures are already there, the legislation is already there. The members of the Think Tank committees can finish their morning coffee and go home. But is Thailand ready?
advertorial • green field villas
Above: The A-type four bedroom, five bathroom style house.
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Below: The large lounge and kitchen featured in the A-type.
Green Field Villas – new variations on a successful formula
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ucked away in the quiet eastern Pattaya suburb of Nongplalai is the fifth offering from Green Field Villas – an exclusive development of just 30 homes which ooze luxury and space to spare. Despite its rural setting, nestling as it does in the angle formed by the intersection of highways 7 and 36, Green Field Villas 5 is nevertheless a mere 15 minutes by road from the centre of Pattaya. Behind its 2.5 metre perimeter wall lies a development of one and two-storey properties brimming with elegance and luxury. With construction now entering the final phase, demand for these spacious properties has been brisk
with Green Field Development Company benefiting from its hardearned reputation for high quality, European-standard construction acquired by its four earlier projects in the Pattaya area. House types Green Field Villas 5 consists of 17 ‘A-type’ two-storey homes, each offering a huge 256sqm of living space, and 13 ‘B-type’ bungalows, nine of which are a new, L-shaped variation of the company’s popular and well-proven design. A-type houses each consist of four bedrooms and five bathrooms, a car port for two vehicles, openplan kitchen and landscaped garden. All have uPVC windows and
doors imported from Germany and concertina-style flyscreens. Master bedrooms feature built-in, walk-in wardrobes and all bathrooms are fully-fitted with rain showers. Other features include ceramic tiled floors, Cotto sanitary ware, granite staircases and CPAC tiled pitched roofs. Optional extras include a swimming pool, air conditioners and security alarms. The few remaining A-type units are being offered for sale with free, fully-fitted European kitchens. Plot sizes range from 156 to 212 talang wah (624-848sqm). B-type bungalows feature an L-shaped variation. The top-of-therange B-type is constructed to the same high standard as the A-type with three and four-bedroom options,
each with three bathrooms and a twovehicle carport. Living space varies between 189 and 192sqm and plot sizes are 156 talang wah (624sqm). The L-shaped variation has twobedroom, two-bathroom and threebedroom, three-bathroom options occupying between 60 and 127 talang wah (240-508sqm) and feature built-in furniture, fully-fitted kitchens, uPVC windows and doors, a one-vehicle carport and a landscaped garden. Prices for two-storey houses start at Bt11m while top-of-the-range bungalows start at Bt10.7m. L-shaped bungalows start at Bt4.5m. The development also features a clubhouse, communal pool, gymnasium, 24-hour security, CCTV, city water and underground electrics.
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The B-type bungalow has three- or four-bedroom options. Below are two of the B-type interiors.
advertorial • green field villas
Here and below: The L-shaped bungalows exteriors and an interior.
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The people behind Green Field Villas are British architect Paul Barrett and his wife, Jan, who formed the company a little more than 10 years ago to develop and build Green Field Villas 1, a 57-unit village in Nongprue. Open spaces Its success inspired Green Field Villas 2, located between Soi Khao Noi and Soi Nernplabwan. The project has plenty of greenery, open spaces and a well-maintained communal area reflecting the family feel that you get on all Green Field villages. Green Field Villas 3 on Soi Siam Country Club offers a slight shift in design, reflecting changing customer requirements resulting for the 2008 global economic downturn when
the site was being developed. With 92 properties from shop houses and townhouses to three-bedroom bungalows, it is the largest of the five Green Field villages, although plots are generally smaller in response to the demand for lower prices at the time of construction. Green Field Villas 4 is the most recently completed project. It is in Nongprue near the temple at the eastern end of Soi Nernplabwan and is the last word in luxury living with underground fibre optic internet cables to all properties. Houses range from three-bedroom bungalows to luxurious two-storey, four-bedroom family homes, all of which are built on large plots with private swimming pools. |
l The head office of Green Field Villas Development Co Ltd is on site at Green Field Villas 5. Address: 53/23 Moo 2, Nongplalai, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150. T: 038 068 575/6; 086 788 3953; or 083 994 2373. F: 038 068 575 E: greenfield@greenfieldvillas.com W: www.greenfieldvillas.com
golfers • guide 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 thereafter. 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 has been renovated in style – even the toilets are automated! Tel: 038 341 149-50 Burapha Golf Club: is a four-star, 36-hole, par 72 course. The Eastern course suits up-and-coming golfers, while the Western challenges the more experienced. Reserving a tee-off time is advised. Tel: 038 372 700-1
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Crystal Bay: Many palms has led to Hawaiian comparisons. Testing par 3s are a feature. Water adds to the look of the course, not just as a hazard. Virtually no rough. Good chance to play to your handicap or better. Tel: 038 349 370-80
Whatever standard you play to you will find a course to suit within an hour’s drive. Here are just some of them.
designed this in conjunction with the late Desmond Muirhead. Many holes test accuracy, not length, of drive. Tel: 038 941 111 Great Lake: is a 36-hole, par 72, Nick Faldo design to the east of Pattaya. The 120 bunkers, water hazards and lovely setting make this a challenging course at moderate prices. Tel: 038 622 630 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 Chebang International: in terms of course, facilities and expense 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. Tel: 038 372 273 Pattana Golf and Sports Resort: Three nine-hole course – one of which features a par 6; another starts with an intimidating drive between two stretches of water that catches out many a high handicapper. The course is a par 72 set in more than 1,200 rai. Tel: 038 318 999
Eastern Star: near Bang Chang is an 18-hole, par 72 four-star course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. The course with a five-star clubhouse is set in an old coconut plantation and is popular with families due to its pools and sports club adjacent. Tel: 038 630 410-6
Pattavia Century (formerly Century Chonburi): Designed by Nick Faldo, this 18-hole, par 72 course, has recently undergone remodelling on some of the holes. And there is a new clubhouse to enjoy. Tel: 081 304 1545
The Emerald: Close to Bang Chang, Emerald is another course where Nick Faldo has left his mark. He
Pattaya Country Club: located 25 kms outside Pattaya on Route 36 is popular with expat golfers. This 18-
hole course gives value for money. Tel: 038 423 718-9 Phoenix: not far outside of the city this offers a five-star clubhouse and a four-star, 27-hole, par 72 course which is found between Pattaya and Sattahip in a well marked turning off the Sukhumvit. The three nines are called Ocean, Lake and Mountain. Tel: 038 239 391-5, 239 400 Rayong Green Valley: this is a Wolveridge and Thompson course of 18 holes, classed as five-star for both the course and clubhouse (which it shares with St Andrews). Suits all handicaps, but beware the water. Tel: 038 603 000-5 Royal Thai Navy (Plutaluang): reasonable green fees ensure this 36hole, par 72 venue is well used but is rarely too busy. Feature holes include The Lighthouse par 3 surrounded by water. Tel & Fax: 038 246 056-7 Siam Country Club, Old Course: is a three-star, 18-hole course, a fourstar clubhouse and a five star price. Gentle hills with large trees give it the feeling of Western golf courses. Host to the LPGA tournament early each year. Tel: 038 909 700 Siam Country Club, Plantation Course: 27-hole course opened in 2008 and is already regarded as one of the most difficult. Three holes share the same green – a first in Asia. Carts are compulsory. Clubhouse is a delight. Tel: 038 909 600 St Andrews 2000: is considered one of the best in the area. This course is a serious challenge. Carts are compulsory. Boasts two par 6 holes. Tel: 038 030 660-2
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social networking • dave buckley
W
hen Cecilia (Cece) Pitre left Pattaya a couple of years back to travel to India the city lost one of its uncrowned queens of networking, perhaps the uncrowned queen. While in India she organised several events but she retained a love of Thailand and opted to return, choosing Phuket as her destination – their gain, our loss. Now Cece is planning to be involved in Pattaya again and, I suspect, the social scene here will pick up considerably as a result. For those of you unaware of Cece’s work here (where have you been hiding?) she was, among other things, in charge of the social side at the Pullman Pattaya Hotel G on Wong-Amat where she organised “G Session” beach parties. Frenchwoman Cece also owns a company called BCBG Party (Bon Chic Bon Genre). She continues to run this though “the parties tend to be more private than public nowadays,” she said. Cece, who has been in Thailand for 11 years, is involved in so many ventures it is difficult to keep up. I’ll try to list them. She is ... l A party and events organiser;
l Manager of Le Versace which is a restaurant bar lounge and hotel in Patong, Phuket, where she has been since December 2013; l A part-time model and film extra; l Founder and president of the Phuket Professional & Fun Ladies Club (PP&FL) which now has 1,323 members. The club gets involved in running ladies nights, boat days, charity activities, fashion shows and workshops; l Ambassadrice for the Karmen & Marius, the French-inspired clothes, bags and accessories brand from Bali. She thinks both Phuket and Pattaya could take a few tips from what is happening in Bali. Finding time Given all the above it is difficult to understand how she night find time to get involved in Pattaya once more. But Cece is keen to make it happen. Last month she spent time here carrying out meetings and inspections of different venues. “I met old friends, introduced myself to new people here, did a few photoshoots and took part in a great radio interview,” said Cece. “Pattaya was my first love here in Thailand and I would like to bring what I describe as a Glamz Touch to
Pictured above model Cecilia, accessories from the Karmen & Marius brand, at Centara Grand Pratumnak hotel in the Breeze Beach Club, in her suite and in the lobby. Make up artist: Annette Jones; Pictures: Chaianan Moontreephakdee.
If you would like to know more about any of Cece’s ventures or wish to respond to some of her ideas you can visit either www. cecibcbg.com or www.leversace. com or email her on cecilia@ cecibcbg.com
the city,” she added. Among her plans she is considering bringing members of the PP&FL Club to Pattaya for a Ladies Weekend to celebrate the club’s first anniversary. The itinerary would include activities such as massages, photoshoots and, of course, shopping! “I think is would be fun to introduce a Pattaya Professional & Fun Ladies Club,” said Cece. “When I was here before I created La Ruski on Facebook. This was a form of ladies club which still has 174 members. Maybe it’s time to reactivate this and make a cool and fun ladies club. I would be interested to hear what ladies think regarding this (see contacts panel alongside).” As part of her fact-finding trip Cece checked out the party and entertainment options in the city. “I would like to get involved in collaborations to make events a bit more chic and glam maybe involving international artists. This is an ongoing process,” she said. In conclusion she said: “I would like to offer big thanks to Carl and Amy from the Centara Grand Pratumnak hotel, my partners who helped me so much during my stay. I think their Breeze Beach Club has a lot of potential.” |
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Will Cece make Pattaya comeback?
sightseeing • attractions 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 15km away on the Pattaya-Rayong Road (Highway 36). Tel: 022 803 547/025 221 731/8 Flight of the Gibbon: this attraction is ranked highly on the Trip Advisor website list of things to do. Cheap it isn’t but most of the reviews rate the experience and commend the safety measures employed. It can be found close to Khao Kheow Zoo. Tel: 0899 70 55 11 or visit website www. treetopasia.com Khao Chi Chan: etched and filled with gold leaf, this Buddha is more than 100 metres high and is thought to be the largest such image in the world. Next to Silver Lakes Vineyard which is also worth a visit. 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. 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
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Million-Year
Stone
Park
and
Crocodile Farm: lies a 15 minute drive from central Pattaya. It features an exotic zoo, and crocodile, fireswallowing and magic shows, as well as the garden and stone park. Open 8.00-18:30. 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. 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. Tel: 03842 9321. Pattaya Dolphin World and Resort: a comparative newcomer to the scene and parts of it were yet to be completed at the beginning of 2013. Recommended for families with young children but don’t expect USA-style shows. Tel: 038 051 790/6. Pattaya Elephant Village: 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.
Here we list just a few of the things tourists and expats can do to make their time here more enjoyable ...
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 9612-4 or www.pattayapark. com for more information. 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 11.0023.00. 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 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 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. 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.
health • dr iain corness
Dr Iain Corness (left) 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.
Does MERS-CoV signal another public health threat?
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he World Health Organisation (WHO) has said that as of June this year, 1,179 laboratoryconfirmed cases of human infection with Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) have been reported to them since 2012, including at least 442 deaths. Overall, 66 per cent of cases are male and the median age is 49 years. (The important fact to note is that these figures cover three years, so MERS-CoV is not something that sprang up yesterday.) To date, 25 countries have reported cases. These include: Middle East: Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia (KSA), United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Yemen; Africa: Algeria, and Tunisia; Europe: Austria, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Turkey and the United Kingdom; Asia: China, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia and Philippines and now Thailand;
Many communityacquired infections are thought to be associated with direct or indirect contact with infected dromedary camels or camelrelated products
North America: the United States of America (USA). The majority of cases (85 per cent) have been reported from KSA. Since May 2015 two new countries have been affected (China and the Republic of Korea). We got over Bird Flu, so where does this one come from? Most infections have occurred in the Middle East and among them, many community-acquired infections are thought to be associated with direct or indirect contact with infected dromedary camels or camel-related products (no joke). Minority of cases However, WHO then goes on to state that infection acquired by exposure to camels represents a minority of all cases. (Mass slaughter of camels would be far more difficult than chickens.) WHO states at this stage, enhancing infection prevention and control awareness and implementation measures is critical to prevent the possible spread of
MERS-CoV in healthcare facilities. It is not always possible to identify patients with MERSCoV early and for this reason, all health care facilities should have standard infection prevention and control practices in place for infectious diseases in general. If MERS-CoV is suspected, policies and procedure for rapid screening and assessment of potential MERS-CoV cases should be in place to ensure rapid care of the patient and to minimise the number of contacts among other patients, visitors and health workers. Droplet precautions, including eye protection, should be added to the standard precautions when providing care to any patient with symptoms of acute respiratory infection. So is MERS-CoV a public health concern? The real situation is that MERS-CoV ‘could’ be a real threat, but at this stage, watchful waiting is all that is necessary. And yes, we have infection control protocols in my hospital.
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broker & developer directory
This is a rendering of the Atrium Condominium planned by New Nordic showing the rooftop facilities. See pages 12 and 13 for full story.
Your at-a-glance guide to some of the major players in the Pattaya property market. We do not claim this is a comprehensive list of all the brokers and developers who can provide a service but we hope readers will find it helpful.
Sponsorship of this directory is now available. If interested to know more please contact Dave on
087 988 0799
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agents agents •• directory directory
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, CIPS 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 All Siam Properties M: +66 (0)87 068 5159 E: info@allsiamproperties.com W: allsiamproperties.com Membership: TREA Anaakot Group Property Consultants 138/1 Moo 12, Soi Chaiyapruk, Jomtien T: +66 (0)38 231544 M: +66 (0)8780 33329 E: info@anaakot-group.com W: Anaakot-Group.com Principal: Jason Young Arise Asia 415 Pratumnak Hill Soi 6 T: +66 (0)38 075 610 M: +66 (0)85 228 8911 (Thanya) E: info@ariseasia.com W: ariseasia.com Principal: Thanyamai Totharong (Thanya) Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR, CIPS
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®. 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®. 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.
Benchmark Asia Property Co Ltd Soi Post Office 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, CIPS Century 21 – B2 Real Estate 315/2 (Soi Lengkee 1) Moo 9, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 T: +66 (0)38 421 652 M: +66 (0)83 603 7989 E: century21@b2realestate.com W: century21-b2.com Century 21 – Seven Stars 157/523 Pattaya-Naklua Road next to Lumpini Ville Condo project T: +66 (0)38 410 510 E: info@travelnfp.com W: travelnfp.com Principal: Suradej Sroyrungrueng
Coastal Real Estate 216/62 M10, Soi 13 (Soi Diana next to Mega-Break) and 519/163-4 Moo 6 Soi Siam Country Club T: +66 (0)38 421 580, +66 (0)38 412 169 M: +66 (0)81 269 0742 E: info@coastalrealestatepattaya.com W: coastalrealestatepattaya.com or coastalrealestatepattaya.asia Principal: Kevin Mattson
TREBA (Thailand): This is the nationwide Thailand 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.
Colliers International Thailand Welcome Town, 47/84 Moo 9, Central Pattaya Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 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
REM 07-08/2015 Issues170 164and and171 165 01-02/2015 ••Issues REM
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
xxxxxxxx• •directory agents xxwriterxxxxx Compass Real Estate Co Ltd 131/56 Moo 9, Sukhumvit Road, South Pattaya, Chonburi 20150 T: +66 (0)800 958 854 M: +66 (0)901 360 747/+66 (0)80 767 1868 E: office@compasspattaya.com W: compasspattaya.com Principal: Rob Rowcett 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 E: eastcoast@thaiproperty.com W: thaiproperty.com or thaiproperty.net Principal: David Gray
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
REM 07-08/2015 • Issues 170 and 171
Five Star Villas & Condos 315/5 Moo 9, Soi Leng Kee, Pattaya Third Road M: +66 (0)81 938 8391 Robert or (0)809 16667 Mesiya E: sales@fivestarvillasandcondos.com W: fivestarvillasandcondos.com Principals: Robert and Mesiya (May) Watson Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), CIPS, REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR, TREBS Gecko Properties 420/146 Soi Buakhow Moo 9 (street with Asia Backpackers on corner) T: +66 (0)38 412 150 M: +66 (0)846 564 846 E: info@gecko-properties.com W: gecko-properties.com Principal: Steve Scholey
glossaRY 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. 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.
Gl bal
Property Pattaya Co., Ltd
Global Property Pattaya Co Ltd 565/56 Moo 10, near Big C South Pattaya T: +66 (0)38 426 231 F: +66 (0)38 426 232 M: +66 (0)81 838 1390 E: info@globalpropertythailand.com W: globalpropertythailand.com or global-property-pattaya.com Principal: Rainer Heinzmann Memberships: REBA-ES, CIPS 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)
Homes Direct Asia 99/34 Soi Khao Noi T: +66 (0)38 068 956 F: +66 (0)38 068 957 M: +66 (0)811 429 0111 or 0890 160 077 E: info@homesdirect.asia W: homesdirect.asia Principal: Matt O’Sullivan 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
JLL (formerly Jones Lang LaSalle) The Village Shopping Centre, Sukhumvit-Pattaya Road Services: Property sales and leasing; property management; consultancy; project management; and valuation T: +66 (0)38 074 663-5 E: info.thailand@ap.jll.com W: joneslanglasalle.co.th W: jllresidential.in.th Principal: Adam Bell Jump Real Estate 315/154 Thappraya Road T: +66 (0)38 251 859 M: +66 (0)879 015 229 E: garry@jump-realestate-pattaya.com W: jump-realestate-pattaya.com Principal: Garry Angerstein Knight Frank The Village Shopping Centre where the Sukhumvit meets Soi Chaiyapruk M: +66 (0)81 550 4099 E: anchalee.kasemsukthawat@ th.knightfrank.com W: knightfrank.co.th 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
agents • directory Siam Properties
NT Realty Asia 215/15-18 Second Road T: +66 (0)38 426 242 or (0)38 425 836 E: info@nt-realty.com W: realestatethailand.com Principal: John Boakes Memberships: RETS (Thailand), NAR, CIPS
Contact 313/27 M10 Pattaya Tai
Eng: 089 833 6175 +66465 (0)38 415 490 Thai: T: 090 4563
www.pattayarealty.com F: +66 (0)38 414 693
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 505/31 View Talay 7 Lobby T: +66(0)38 059 537 F: +66(0)38 059538 E: info@seaboard-properties.com W: seaboard-properties.com Principal: Eddie Buehler
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 Principal: Cees Cuijpers Memberships: CRS, REBA-ES, NAR, CIPS Advertisements: Pages 27 and 29
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REM 07-08/2015 • Issues 170 and 171
M: +66 (0)81 861 1907 (Heiner) or Pattaya Realty (0)81 821 7045 (Porn) 420/185 Moo 9 Soi Buakhow 15 Russian: +66 (0)89 245 2890 (Vera) T: +66 (0)38 412 301-2 E: info@siamproperties.net or M: +66 (0)89 833 6175 or (0)90 465 4563 rus@siamproperties.net One Stop Real Estate E: info@pattayarealty.com W: siamproperties.net 219/14 M9, Soi Yamato W: pattayarealty.com Sale ß18,000,000 HS9736 HS6871 HS8611 Sale ß24,950,000 Sale ß9,000,000 Siam Royal View House 4 beds (private pool) Mabprachan Villa) House 4 beds Principals: Heiner and Porn Moessing T: +66 (0)38 710 699 orHouse (0)384 beds 710 725 (Jomtien ParkPrincipal: Stuart Daly Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), M: +66 (0)819 454 845 Memberships: CIPS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR, CIPS E: onestop@realesthai.com REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR W: real-estate-thailand.com Advertisement: Page 15 Talay Real Estate Co Ltd Principal: Mark Welch 240/18 M5, Naklua not far from Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), Powerhouse Properties Co Ltd ß 35,000/month CR10009 Rent ß 30,000/month Rent ß60,000/month Rent CR7760 on Second Road Dolphin Roundabout REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR, CIPS View Talay Residence 4 CR5893 Pratumnak Central Pattaya Condo 1 bed Condo 2 beds Condo 3 beds 3 baths Central Pattaya T: +66 (0)38 362 352 489/2 Jomtien Soi 5, Pattaya, 20150 F: +66 (0)38 362 351 Pattaya Bay Real Estate T: +66 (0)38 059 635 M: +66 (0)87 608 1116 or (0)8 0091 5353 338/24 Moo 12 Pratumnak Road M: +66 (0)81 945 8002, +66(0)90 398 E: info@talayrealestate.com T: + 66 (0)38 250 944 6643 W: talayrealestate.com M: + 66 (0)811 580 065 (English) E: info@powerhousepropertiesltd.com Principals: Namthip Khanjanavisittaphol + 66 (0)861 566 346 (Thai) W: powerhousepropertiesltd.com HS9957 Sale ß6,500,000 Sale ß22,000,000 Sale ß78,000,000 HS9060 CS8856 (Sandy) T Okuno E: info@pattayabayrealestate.com Principal: J. Bernard Pratumnak House 3 beds (private pool) East Pattaya Naklua House 5 beds (privateand pool) Ted Condo 2 beds (sea view) W: pattayabayrealestate.com Memberships: REBA-ES, REBA Thailand-Property-Gate Principal: Mal Patterson (Thailand), RETS (Thailand), CIPS, NAR, (We Can Do It Co Ltd) CRS, RESMA 50/2 Moo 6, Huay Yai Pattaya Jomtien Property M: +66 (0)81 835 9923 75/49 Soi 5 Immigration, Beach Road, Premier Homes Real Estate Co Ltd W: thailand-property-gate.com Jomtien (75m from Immigration Office) 240/21 Jomtien Beach Road 120,000/month CR7116 CR10007 Rent ß Rent ß50,000/month Rent ß50,000/month CR10010 House 4 beds (private pool) Mabprachun Condo231 1 bed (sea view) Wong Amat Principal: Stefan Matter T: +66 (0)90 132 1891 House 3 beds (private pool) East Pattaya T: +66 (0)38 931 M: +66 (0)85 129 5657 (Thai); M: +66 (0)81 634 2915 Thailiving or +66 (0)85 056 9880 (English) E: premier@loxinfo.co.th 306/90-91 M12 Thappraya Road E: sales@pattaya-jomtien-property.com W: premierinternational.com T: +66 (0)38 364 514 W: pattaya-jomtien-property.com Principals: Clayton and Supap Wade M: +66 (0)81 862 7405 Principals: Kevin and Chanram Hurst Memberships: CIPS, RETS (Thailand), NAR E: info@thailiving.net W: thailiving.net Pattaya Paradise City Property Rightmove Pattaya GPS:Location 12.928045,100.883015 Principal: Supaporn Persson (Sara) 99/684-685, Moo 5, Chok Chai Village 8, 369/1 M9, Units 8&9 PS Bowl, 2nd Road nd Our of�ice address 420/185T:Moo.9 Pattaya Soi Watboonsampan +66 (0)38 361 2212Road 15, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 info@pattayarealty.com Thai Properties T: +66 (0)38 376 145Tel: 038 412301/038 412302M:Email: +66 (0)89 253 5607 M: +66 (0) 855-166-041 Fax: +66 (0) 38 376 147 E: info@rightmovepattaya.com E: paul@thaiproperties.asia M: +66 (0)81 761 3238 W: rightmovepattaya.com Principal: Paul Johnson E: pattaya@paradisecityproperty.com Principal: Craig Turner W: pattaya-property.biz Memberships: REBA (Thailand), Principal: Gavin Perfect REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), CIPS
REAL ESTATE BROKER ASSOCIATION – EASTERN SEABOARD
ticks all Members of REBA-ES are respected
Member companies in REBA-ES are part of an established and respected real estate organisation which has the support of the Thai Government
professional
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
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
REAL ESTATE BROKER ASSOCIATION – EASTERN SEABOARD
the boxes ... Sponsoring REBA-ES members Contact
Eng: 089 833 6175 Thai: 090 465 4563
www.pattayarealty.com
Mark Welch +66 (0)81 945 4845 info@1stop-pattaya.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
... if your answer is ‘yes’ to all, check out the REBASale ß18,000,000 House 4 beds
Sale ß24,950,000
HS9736
(Jomtien Park Villa)
House 4 beds
HS6871
Siam Royal View
Sale
ß9,000,000
HS8611
House 4 beds (private pool) Mabprachan
Rob Watson Gareth De Silva Heiner Moessing +66 (0)81 938 8391 +66 (0)81 792 9486 +66 (0)89 499 1000 sales@fivestarvillasandcondos.com info@benchmarkthailand.com CR10009 Rent ß35,000/month Rent ß60,000/month Rent ß30,000/month CR7760 CR5893 info@siamproperties.net www.fivestarvillasandcondos.com www.benchmarkthailand.com Pratumnak Central Pattaya Condo 1 bed Condo 2 beds Condo 3 beds 3 baths Central Pattaya www.siamproperties.net
Gl bal Property Pattaya Co., Ltd
Rainer Heinzmann Sale ß6,500,000 3 beds (private pool) +66 (0)81 838 House 1390 info@globalpropertythailand.com www.globalpropertythailand.com
HS9957 East Pattaya
Craig TurnerCS8856 Sale ß22,000,000
Condo 2 beds (sea view)
Naklua
Sale
+66 (0)89 253 5607 info@rightmovepattaya.com www.rightmovepattaya.com
HS9060 June Bernard +66(0)38 059 635 info@powerhousepropertiesltd.com www.powerhousepropertiesltd.com
ß78,000,000
House 5 beds (private pool) Pratumnak
You can trust Rent
ß50,000/month
House 3 beds (private pool)
CR10010
East Pattaya
Rent
ß50,000/month
Condo 1 bed (sea view)
CR10007 Wong Amat
Rent
ß120,000/month
CR7116
House 4 beds (private pool) Mabprachun
GPS:Location 12.928045,100.883015 Our of�ice address 420/185 Moo.9 Pattaya 2nd Road 15, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel: 038 412301/038 412302 Email: info@pattayarealty.com
Advert: Zen Grafix
www.rebaes.com
agents • •directory xxxxxxxx developers xxwriterxxxxx • directory Anaakot Group Development 138/1 Moo 12, Soi Chaiyapruk, Jomtien Project: Sixtythree@12 T: +66 (0)38 231544 M: +66 (0)8780 33329 E: info@anaakot-group.com W: Anaakot-Group.com Contact: Jason Young Blue Sky Developments Co Ltd 933 Ruamtanuthai Building, 11th floor, Mahachai Road, Wangburapapirom, Phranakorn, Bangkok T: +66(0)81 8180874 E: pornthepchawla@gmail.com W: blueskydevelopments.co.th Principal: Pornthep Chawla (Dev) Boutique Corporation 170/67 21st floor, Ocean Tower 1, Soi Sukhumvit 16, Ratchadaphisek Road, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 T: +66 (0)86 378 7777 E: pattama@boutiquecorporation.com W: boutiquecorporation.com Principal: Pattama Piyamaneeporn Bravo Thai Lifestyle Co Ltd Projects: The Vineyard I, II & III and Amaya Hill near Lake Mabprachan M: +66 (0)89 8677 969 E: terry@siamdevelopments.com W: siamdevelopments.com Principal contact: Terrence Allen Collins
REM 07-08/2015 • Issues 170 and 171
CSP Projects Chaiyapruk 2 over rail track on left opposite The Ville 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 Coglan 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
Domum Holding Co Ltd 391/109 Thappraya Road. Corner of Soi 13, next to Mata Hari Restaurant Project: Meridiem Condominium and Meridiem Park 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
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 M: +66 (0)89 247 7158 E: sales@reflectionpattaya.com W: majordevelopment.co.th
Dusitpattaya Co Ltd Soi Wat Yan off the Sukhumvit near Ban Amphur Projects: 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)
Matrix Developments 352/202-3 M12 Pratumnak Road Current projects: Art-on-the-Hill, Paradise Park, Sunset Boulevard, The View, The Vision, Amazon Residence, City Center Residence and The Orient 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
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
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
Habitat 5 Co Ltd Sales Office: 172 Soi Chaiyapruk 2 Projects: The Ville Jomtien and X2 Pattaya SeaPhere M: +66 (0)81 450 0001/2 E: chane@habitat-5.com W: TheVillePattaya.com 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 and III (The Maldives), Laguna Beach Resort Jomtien I & II, Laguna Heights, The Peak Towers, Wong Amat Tower, Water Park Condominium, C-View and Arcadia Beach Resorts I-IV (Pattaya, Naklua and Jomtien x 2) M: +66 (0)85 282 6454 E: oliver@heights-holdings.com W: heights-holdings.com Principal contact: Oliver Nabarro
New Nordic Occupies a large area of Pratumnak. Soi 4 and look for the orange signs Current projects: New Nordic Suites, New Nordic VIP Condominium I, II and III and IV are planned T: +66 (0)38 250 025 M: +66 (0)89 605 4114 E: sales@new-nordic.com W: new-nordic.com Norwegian Properties Group 315/175-180 Moo 12, Nongprue Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Project: VN Residences 3 T: +66 (0)38 303 310 F: +66 (0)38 252 548 M: +66 (0)89 936 6741 (Eng) or +66 (0)89 834 7664 (Eng and Rus) E: jeanette@vnresidences.com or liene@vnresidences.com W: vnresidences.com Principal contact: Jeanette Eiksund Heltne
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agents • directory
Where you can get a copy of REm
Robin’s Nest 33/42-44 Moo 10 Soi Diana Inn T: +66 (0)38 720 194 W: robinsnestpattaya1@gmail.com
Mantra Restaurant & Bar Pattaya Beach, Pattaya T: +66 (0) 3842 9591 E: email@mantra-pattaya.com W: mantra-pattaya.com
Starbucks Coffee Company Avenue Pattaya Royal Garden Pattaya Stylo Pattaya Beach Road Tuk Com South Pattaya Central Festival T: 038 710 087 E: customercomment@ starbucks-thailand.com W: starbucks.co.th
Sportsman Pub & Restaurant Soi 13, Pattaya Beach Road T: +66 (0)38 710 609 or +66 (0)86 834 3729 W: sportsmanpub.com
Star Books Soi Khao Noi 087 605 4326 E: books@starbookworm.com W: starbookworm.com
Holiday Inn Pattaya 463/68 Pattaya Sai 1 Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi T: +66 (0)3872 5555 W: holidayinn.com/pattaya
The Village Shopping Centre Junction Soi Chaiyapruk and Sukhumvit Road T: 038 074 647-8 W: thevillagepattaya.com
Shenanigans Irish Pub Jomtien Complex Condo Thappraya Road, Jomtien T: 038 303 490 E: info@ shenanigansthailand.com W: shenanigansthailand.com
Bangkok Hospital Pattaya Highway 3, Naklua T: 038 259 999 Emergency: 1719 E: inquiry@bph.co.th W: bangkokpattayahospital.com
Tequila Reef Cantina Soi 7, Pattaya Tel: (038) 414-035 E: info@tequilareefpattaya.com W: tequilareefpattaya.com
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REM 01-02/2015 • Issues 164 and 165 REM 07-08/2015 • Issues 170 and 171
Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa Beach Road, Pattaya T: 038 412 120 E: pattayamarriott@minornet.com W: marriott.com/PYXMC
agents • •directory xxxxxxxx developers xxwriterxxxxx • directory 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, Nam Talay, Serenity Wongamat, North Beach, Pacific Bay and The Orient 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 M: +66 (0)89 991 1999 E: info@ppd.co.th W: ppd.co.th Principal: Itthi Chavalittamrong Poompatta Co Ltd 450 M9 Nongprue, Chonburi 20150 Projects: Patta Village and Patta Town T&F: +66 (0)38 371 555 E: info@poompattapattaya.com W: poompattapattaya.com
REM 07-08/2015 • Issues 170 and 171
Powerhouse Properties Co Ltd View Talay Residence 4 489/2 Jomtien Soi 5, Pattaya, 20150 T: +66 (0)38 059 635 M: +66 (0)81 945 8002, +66(0)90 398 6643 E: info@powerhousedev.com W: powerhousedev.com watersedge-pattaya.com skylightjomthien.com habitusjomthien.com Principal: J. Bernard Memberships: REBA-ES, REBA (Thailand), RETS (Thailand), CIPS, NAR, CRS, RESMA 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
Tulip Group Co Ltd 88/58 Moo 4, Bowin Sub District, Siracha, Chonburi Projects: Centara Avenue Residence & Suites Pattaya and Golden Tulip Hotel & Residence (both behind The Avenue), Centara Grand Residence Pattaya (Na-Jomtien), Waterfront Suites & Residences (Bali Hai), Royal Tulip Suites 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 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 (The) Siam Oriental Trading Co Ltd 267/4 M12, Pratumnak Projects: Siam Oriental Condominium, Siam Oriental Garden, Siam Oriental Twins, Siam Oriental Elegance, Tropical Garden, Siam Oriental Plaza, Green Cascades T: +66 (0)81 305 3071 or 085 085 8284 E: siamoriental@mail.ru W: siamoriental.net Principal contact: Anastassiya Konchaphat Town & Country Property 63/10-11 Pattaya Tai Projects: The Meadows, The Residence and Whispering Palms F: +66 (0)38 374 137 Russian: +66 (0)84 873 7425 E: info@towncountryproperty.com W: towncountryproperty.com Principal: Cees Cuijpers
Universal Group Thailand 324/90 Moo 12, Thappraya Road Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Projects: Seven Seas and Savanna Sands T: +66 (0)38 074 625 E: universalplus@ymail.com W: universal-thailand.com Principal: Sonia Punjabi (The) Urban Co Ltd Projects: Acqua Condominium, The Gallery, SP Townhomes, The Urban, The Urban Suites, and Aeras 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 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), VI (The Feelture), VII (Del Mare) T: +66 (0)38 757 375-7 M: +66 (0)82 444 1147-8 E: theblue@porchland.com W: porchland.com
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l Located at beach entrance of Pratumnak Soi 5
l Featuring a 15th floor pool deck with stunning panoramic views l All units have sea views l 24-hr video surveillance l Four high-speed elevators l Wi-Fi and cable TV l Fitness and conditioning room l Five star lobby reception
Office 038 250 109 Mobile 092-484-6262 W: www.sandspattaya.com E: info@sandspattaya.com
Showroom open daily 10am-7pm