Rem may 2014 by Pattaya Property Consultants

REm

the city magazine for pattaya

Issue 156 | May 2014 | www.remthai.com

Green Field Villas’ secret of success

เรียล เอสเตท แม๊กกาซีน ไทยแลนด์

2 REM 05/2014

xxxxxxxx • xxwriterxxxxx

who is who • commentary

Managing Director Dave Buckley Tel: 087 988 0799 dave@remthai.com Publisher/Editor Mesiya Watson may@realestatemagazinethailand.com Sales and Marketing Wongduan Roberts Tel: 087 535 8096 duan@thailandpropertymagazine.com or realestatemag@hotmail.com or dave@remthai.com Office/Accounts Tel: 038 406519 or 08 6335 2474 dear@thailandpropertymagazine.com Web address www.remthai.com Artwork, Design & Layout Tel: 086 833 2543 (Khun Third)

Our team

Since 2001 – Thailand’s first English language property magazine

Just a coincidence? I’m not much of a believer in coincidences – put that down to being a cynic since I started in journalism. But something happened the other week to make me reconsider. I had been weighing up the pros and cons of which big interview to run in this month’s magazine. The choice was, admittedly, an unusual one – Robert De Niro or a guy

Dave Buckley looks at the search for better health in a stressful world ...

I have never heard of before called Dr Frank Lipman who, apparently, is big on issues of wellness in the States. At initial glance it wasn’t much of a contest. People like De Niro and I was leaning towards buying the syndicated article about him. But, when the company involved said that De Niro would cost twice the usual amount I had to reconsider. In a way I was pleased because the Dr Lipman interview struck several chords with me and, I suspect, other old codgers who won’t see 60 again. But it’s for people of all ages and sexes. See it on pages 18-20.

So where is the coincidence? Well, just a couple of days after reading the Lipman article I found myself helping to interview Pattaya’s own Dr William

Publisher Pattaya Property Consultants Co Ltd 21/27 M5 Soi Nern Plub Waan Nongprue • Banglamung Chonburi 20150 Tel: 038 406519 or 08 6335 2474

van Ewijk for the Pattaya Channel’s Breakfast Show. He is the medical advisor to the One Wellness Clinic close to the Tiffany’s theatre. I had seen Dr William many times at networking events but, apart from knowing that he was a doctor, I knew little about him. What I heard on the TV chat gained my interest and it seemed a strong coincidence that I had read about Dr Lipman just a few days earlier and there I was listening to what sounded like a very similar story.

Disclaimer: All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the editor. The publishers are not responsible for any error contained within the magazine. The publishers also accept no liability for the accuracy of statements made by the advertisers or writers. The views of correspondents are not necessarily those of the magazine. Articles are produced containing up-to-date information to the best of our knowledge. However, we accept no liability for information contained within any article. Copyright © Real Estate MAGAZINE Thailand 2014

Dr Lipman’s treatment methods are not exactly mainstream medicine and he is on record as saying that initially he was considered “a heretic” but now he feels he’s not even alternative. His methods have gained acceptance. Dr William, too, seems unconventional in his methods. I went to see him for an inexpensive consultation and left clutching items such as extra virgin coconut oil, baking soda and the Thai seaweed snack you can buy in a 7-11. It was a refreshing change compared to going to a local hospital and leaving with a bag of five different tablets that just leave a big hole in the pocket. Hospitals seem to treat just the symptoms you describe to them whereas Dr William looks at the overall picture of your health (or lack of it). Am I recommending that you all rush to see Dr William? Well it is such an early stage in my own treatment that I don’t feel it is my place to. Add to that a complete lack of medical knowledge and you will understand my reluctance to stick my neck out. But, after just one consultation, I’m impressed and will go back. He has given me a diet (I’m useless at them) that has made me consider writing a blog called: The Red Wine Diet and Other Crazy Things that Just Might Work.

3 REM 05/2014

Publication Licence Number 2/2549

contents • leisure

cover story

leisure

The secrets of GFV success

Rockers with charm

70•star struck? No WAY: Bart Walters looks as some of the top names in music who have found their way to Pattaya – like Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page (above).

18•wellness Whenever the people behind the Green Field Villas series

Man: Frank Lipman

announce a new project it is greeted with enthusiasm by real

gives

estate brokers. The launch of GFV 5 was no exception.

stars

about

what

they

should

and

not

eat

advice

should

in his New York practice.

Perhaps

his suggestions will sit well with some of our readers.

4 REM 05/2014

30 26

Exclusive pictures from Tulip

Group’s

project Royal Tulip.

latest

The city centre specialist who is ready to go the extra mile for clients.

Special Nova’s

34•Quiz time: In this month’s quiz we look at quirky

Beach

pastimes of the stars. For example do you know which

Report North

project in Naklua.

rocker made this model of Grand Central Station.

advertisers • page numbers

AAAA Properties

Arcadia Beach Resort (HH)

61, 63, 65

ASAP Yacht Chandlery

BBX Barter Company

Beach Properties

86-87

Centara Grand Phratamnak Pattaya (Tulip) Centara Grand Residence (Tulip)

56 54-55

City Center Residence (Matrix)

Back cover

Coastal Real Estate

Cosy Beach View

Cube, The (Tudor Group)

38-39

C-View (Heights Holdings)

East Coast Real Estate

Elegance Condominium @ Cosy Beach

Euro Design

FARANG Services

4-5

Foodland Supermarket

Friendship Supermarket

Gecko Properties

Global Property (Global Solidor)

Golden Tulip Hotel & Residence (Tulip)

50-51

Green Field Villas 5 Cover Häfele Shower Heads

Laguna Beach Resort – The Maldives (HH) Masters, The Movers & Shakers

Nam Talay (Nova)

North Beach (Nova)

Inside Front Cover

Ocean Pacific (Nova)

Pattaya Channel

Pattaya Property Show

Pattaya Realty

Pattaya Realty Commercial

Pattaya Rent-a-Car/Bike Perfect Biz Management (PBM) Porch Land Real Estate Broker Association Rightmove Brokers Riviera, The – Wongamat Royal Tulip Suites

83, 94 21 Between 40-41 100-101 17 3 10-11

Sands Condominium

Serenity Wongamat (Nova)

Sky, The – Jomtien (Matrix) Southpoint (Kingdom Property) Star Residence @ Cosy Beach Town & Country Property

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Inside Back Cover

45 22-23 7 8-9

Tudor Court

Tulip Group

Vision, The (Matrix) Waterfront Suites & Residences (Tulip)

44 52-53

news • property

Thai Property Expo in August Developers around the country will have a great opportunity to display their latest projects in the luxury surroundings of the Conrad Hotel Bangkok’s five-star Grand Ballroom in three months’ time. The Thai Property Expo event will be open each day from August 29-31 between the hours of 10am and 6pm. Bangkokonians, both Thai and Expats are keener now more than ever before to buy outside the capital for a number of reasons, as a second home, for holidays, for investments, or simply to escape from the city from time to time. Pattaya, Rayong, Phuket, Hua Hin, Chiang Mai are all popular locations, the choice for buyers is vast and so this EXPO aims to make their decision easier. A spokesman for the organisers said: “This is the ideal marketplace to meet buyers and key people. The Thai Property Expo will enable companies to promote their projects over the three days to both the

public and to members of Thailand’s property industry. It will also provide exhibitors with a great opportunity to meet the media.” He added: The best value-formoney solution is a well executed stand at a good exhibition. Nothing works better than talking face-toface with potential customers. This Thai Property Expo is the perfect opportunity for Property Developers from outside Bangkok to meet new clients.”

The Grand Ballroom at the Conrad in Bangkok seen here all ready for a banquet. In August it will be transformed to welcome visitors to the Thai Property Expo.

The show’s media sponsors include Property Report, Pattaya Property Guide, this magazine (REM), Hot Property and DDProperty.com. Fully equipped stands cost just Bt10,500 per sqm or space-only areas cost Bt8,500 per sqm. l To book your stand please contact Pimowan (Pao) 0824 784 666 or email pimowan@exactthailand. com; Mike Bridge 0831 986 700 at mike@exactthailand.com.

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North Beach showroom opens to plaudits Agents and potential clients who visited the grand opening of Nova Group’s North Beach showroom in Naklua were suitably impressed by what they saw. The showrooms demonstrate both single and double bedroom units and the interior decor gained much praise from visitors. The 25-storey building will be between the Dusit Thani hotel and Cape Dara resort and will house 205 apartments. l For fuller details please turn to our more in-depth article on pages 34-35.

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House : East Pattaya 4 beds 5 baths HR8947 100,000/Month

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Pattaya Realty Co.,Ltd. Eng: 089 833 6175 Thai/Eng: 090 465 4563 www.pattayarealty.com

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Pattaya Realty

Commercial

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PLEASE CONTACT US FOR ALL COMMERCIAL ENQUIRIES Office Address Pattaya Realty CommercialCo.,Ltd. 413/150 M00.12 Jomtian Rd, Tel: 038 251245 Nongprue,Banglamung Eng: 085 431 6960 Chonburi 20150 Thailand www.pattayarealtycommercial.com Email: info@pattayarealtycommercial.com

cover story • robert collins

Secrets behind success of Green Field Villas 1-5

16 REM 05/2014

reen Field Development Co Ltd, run by Paul and Jan Barrett and their long-established team, is one of the oldest and most successful developers on the Eastern Seaboard, constructing high quality houses to exacting European standards in East Pattaya. Paul and Jan were involved in several different construction projects in around the city before deciding in 2004 to go it alone with the aptly named Green Field Villas 1 village, their first venture in Nongprue. Initially, Paul had fears about the location of the 57-house development, but his optimism won the day as he followed other, more positive, instincts and the Green Field success story began. Non-claustrophobic The company has stuck to its principles when designing projects. All its houses are built on large land plots providing open, non-claustrophobic, village environments. In fact, many

residents choose to live in their Green Field homes for many years with some even saying they couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. All Green Field houses are built to the highest European standards and offer superb value for money in the medium-price housing market range. The fact that most of those re-sold have actually appreciated in value – a notoriously difficult achievement in Thailand – is testament to their excellent quality and high demand among potential purchasers with many agents clamouring to get the first listings for real estate sales. Paul takes great pride in his work and attributes superb security in all Green Field villages and excellent maintenance by the respective village committees to after-sales service which, he says, is second to none. Paul believes his thorough knowledge of the industry gives him an advantage over many of his competitors. He is a constant presence at the newest village under construction and his hands-on approach ensures that

l All pictures on these three pages are from the actual show houses on GFV5 project. If you would like to know more about this or any of the other four company developments please contact the sales office on 038 732 280-1, or email greenfield@ greenfieldvillas. com

the high standards he has set are maintained. In fact, so confident is he in the quality of his work that he is happy to take would-be purchasers to the company’s earlier projects, enabling them to speak to long-term residents and get an insight into what they can expect when they buy a Green Field home. Hugely respected On the social scene, Paul, Jan and the team may be less well known than some of their counterparts, but they are held in high regard by those in the business. This hugely respected group of people prefers to let the quality of its houses do the talking for them. All Green Field projects are sold quickly after launch with empty plots virtually unheard of. The total absence of long periods waiting for houses to be completed has been a key factor in the success of previous projects. Green Field Villas 2, located between Soi Khao Noi and Soi

The largest GFV By far the largest Green Field village, it comprises 92 properties from townhouses to three-bedroom bungalows and proved to be one of the fastest selling projects of its size in the region. Nothing was compromised in terms of quality, although the properties occupy

slightly smaller plots and were pitched at a lower price to reflect the demand in the area at the time. It was another shrewd move by this vastly experienced team. The most recently completed project is Green Field Villas 4, also in Nongprue, close to the temple at the end of Soi Nernplabwan. The project is the last word in luxury and, because it was pitched at affordable prices offering great value for money, all properties in the village sold quickly. All with pools Everything about Green Field Villas 4 screams quality, from the underground fibre optic internet cables to the fantastic, modern finishes 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. And as you would expect from Green Field, the village is maintained to the highest standards with

17 REM 05/2014

Nernplabwan, is just one resounding success story. Typically of Green Field, the project has plenty of greenery, open spaces and a fantastic, well maintained communal area reflecting the true family feel that you get on all Green Field villages. The project was long regarded as probably the best village in the area, both in terms of location and build quality, although this accolade has now perhaps fallen to the newer Green Field Villas 4. Green Field Villas 3 on the Soi Siam Country Club Road offers a slight shift in design in line with the changing customer demands during the construction period.

cover story • robert collins

18 REM 05/2014

residents’ security paramount. All four completed projects are excellently located for local amenities and access to central Pattaya. Project 5, currently under construction, is another example of the team selecting prime land that had been overlooked by competitors who feared it was too far out of town. However, the development is just 15 minutes by road from Central Pattaya with easy access to motorways to Bangkok and Rayong. Country feel International Schools are just minutes away, yet the quiet development has a country feel about it, despite its convenient location. The final design of the village is flexible and yet to be finalised, but construction is well under way with some homes already completed. Initially, the village was going to be exclusively houses of luxury two-storeys and fourbedrooms, but the team is currently reassessing this for a section of the village following overwhelming

demand for some of the previous designs. Whatever the final design and configuration, the village will be of the same high standard that you would expect from a Green Field project. The villages have continuously evolved to take advantage of modern building methods, leading edge materials and, of course, the latest technologies. You would be hard pressed to find another village in Pattaya – or anywhere else in Thailand for that matter – that offers the same state-ofthe-art facilities and finishing touches that are standard on Green Field Villas 5. As someone once said: “You should remember the little things, because one day they may become big things.” It really is some of the finer touches that make this project stand out from the pack. As to the future, many thought Project 5 would be Green Field’s last, but Paul is as ambitious as ever. The entire team is constantly looking for new opportunities to drive the business forward. With few changes

You should remember the little things, because one day they may become big things.

of personnel since day one, the team is extremely experienced bringing individual knowledge and skills to each project. Paul and Jan have taken care to pass on their expertise so that the business can continue to run smoothly and efficiently for years to come, with or without them. The long-term objective is for family members to take over the day-to-day running of the business along with long established employees. Selling fast Project 5 is already selling fast and with a strong, well-grounded business, the future for Green Field Development Co Ltd looks as bright as ever. This should reassure prospective buyers that Green Field quality will be around for a long time and give other developers something to aspire to on their own developments. After an extremely successful first 10 years, this is just the beginning for Green Field with many more years surely still to come. |

369/1 Moo 9 l Units 8 & 9 PS Bowl (TOPS Supermarket) l Pattaya 2nd Road l Central Pattaya W: www.rightmovepattaya.com l E: info@ rightmovepattaya.com T: 089 253 5607 / 038 361 212

star interview  by barbara mcmahon / the times / the interview people

Doctor who tells

20 REM 05/2014

‘The two big things that have to go are sugar and gluten and sometimes dairy too.’

ifestyle and diet can radically change how you feel, says Frank Lipman, the doctor the rich and famous flock to. In his office in Manhattan, Dr Frank Lipman is describing the general feeling of being “spent” that many of us suffer from but put up with as part of the price of modern life. Digestive problems, irritability, insomnia, unexplained aches and pains, brain fog and fatigue are some of the symptoms. “What I’m seeing every day in my practice is that people are completely exhausted — or, as you would say in the UK, knackered,” he says. Dr Lipman is a practitioner of functional medicine, a combination of Chinese medicine, Western medicine and the latest scientific research about how our genetics, environment and lifestyle all interact with each other. “People get used to feeling run down,” he adds. “They think that being bloated or not being able to poop or being tired and not sleeping well is normal because everybody else is suffering in the same way. But these things aren’t normal. The right lifestyle and diet can radically change how you feel.” Mellow places We are meeting in his suite of consulting rooms called the Eleven Eleven Wellness Centre in Manhattan. His practice is one of those intentionally mellow places with orchids, Buddha statues and paintings of Tibetan enlightenment art. There are six treatment rooms where chiropractic care, deep tissue massage and acupuncture are carried out. But it is Dr Lipman’s nutritional advice that everyone comes for. He has a cult following in New York and people fly in from around the world to see him. Appointments are not cheap. An initial consultation is $650 (a little more than Bt20,000) with follow-ups at $250 (just over Bt8,000). The waiting list is said to be three months long. His roster of highprofile celebrity clients is led by the actress Gwyneth Paltrow (right) and the designer Donna Karan. “He’s my dream of where the medical system should be,”

Paltrow what not to eat

Dr Lipman with PR guru Heidi Krupp at the launch of one of his books. “Western medicine is early detection medicine — that’s what smear tests and mammograms and all those other tests are — but it’s not preventive. A lot of what we’re doing here is treating the chronic problem and then preventing more problems from happening in the future.” Women of all ages His clientele is 80 per cent women and no, he says, they are not all celebrities and fashionistas. Women of all ages and occupations come for consultations. The median age used to be about 40 but now he is seeing more and more women in their 20s who are suffering from autoimmune problems. Many of his male clients, he adds, are brought in by wives and girlfriends who are already following his programme. Lipman uses the word “spent” to describe people whose resistance has been lowered by the cumulative effects of physical, psychological and environmental stress on their bodies. When digestive problems, migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, insomnia and other ailments surface, he says, it is time to listen to what the body is saying. It wants to rest, detoxify, repair and be restored. He says we all need to move back to our body’s innate natural rhythm because, in our genes and biology, we are still our ancient ancestors. “We’re living lives completely foreign to those genes and biology,” he says, “but we can reset our genetic clocks.” He talks me through a typical consultation, which lasts about 90 minutes. He and one of his seven health coaches take a detailed history of each patient. “The first thing is to look at your

21 REM 05/2014

Karan told The New York Times. “I’ve recommended him to everyone.” On her website goop.com Paltrow says she went to see the South Africanborn doctor when she was feeling run down and her immune system was not bouncing back. “He helped me a lot,” she says. The mother of two describes his book Revive: Stop Feeling Spent and Start Living Again as “essential reading for anyone exhausted by modern life”. Dr Lipman is now a regular contributor to goop and writes about wellness issues. “She has a hard time, poor old Gwyneth,” the doctor says, “but she gets it. She knows that nutrition is vitally important and that supplements can help you. She gets this whole holistic way of seeing the body. People have loved to hate her, I’m not sure why, but they’re taking her more seriously now, and so they should. “She’s been into this for a long time. It’s not a fad for her. She’s the first one to say that she’s not perfect, that she likes to have a drink and that kind of thing, but this is how she lives her life because she knows she feels better doing it.” In person Dr Lipman, who calls himself an integrative doctor and a health evangelist, is affable but noticeably clinical in his approach. Peering over his spectacles, he talks to me passionately about the limitations of Western medicine. His zeal for his subject is evident. “We don’t teach people how to take care of themselves, we just wait for them to get sick and then we give them drugs to suppress the symptoms,” he says.

star interview  by barbara mcmahon / the times / the interview people

22 REM 05/2014

diet, because often there’s a correlation between what you’re eating and how you’re feeling and what’s going on in your body,” he explains. “The two big things that have to go are sugar and gluten and sometimes dairy too, though I don’t really mind grass-fed butter. Then all processed foods and all of the genetically modified foods — which you have less of a problem with in the UK — like corn and soy.” The emphasis is on food quality, not calorie counting and avoiding the common irritants and harmful foods that drain the body of energy. There is no one-size-fits-all diet and each eating plan is tailored individually. “For some people a vegan diet works and for some people a Paleo diet works, a lot of the time it’s determined by how carbohydrate-sensitive people are and what their digestive function is,” he says. He is also a big believer in supplements that can help fill in nutritional gaps. With some patients he orders blood tests to check thyroid function and vitamin levels and everyone has a lifestyle overhaul. Patients are encouraged to do more exercise, try meditation and stop being tied to their phones and computers. The appointment ends with one of his acupuncture sessions. Crack addicts Born in Johannesburg, Lipman and his wife Janice went to the US in 1984 and he was soon appointed chief medical resident at a hospital in the Bronx, which at that time was overrun with heroin and crack addicts. He became fascinated by the hospital’s alternative addiction clinic, where patients were treated with acupuncture. “You would see these drug addicts sitting calmly with needles in their ears while in our wards they were pulling out their IVs and being extremely aggressive,” he recalls. He tried to get other doctors interested in acupuncture, without success. “Colleagues were pulling me aside and saying ‘Are you crazy? You’re going to be ostracised’ They didn’t want to know. By that time I was already questioning the medical establishment and so it was

quite easy for me when it was time to leave.” He joined an alternative medical practice and studied under Harriet Beinfield and Efrem Korngold, two of the foremost practitioners of Chinese medicine in the US, and Jeffrey Bland, a leader in the field of nutritional medicine and the so-called father of functional medicine. Dr Lipman says he spent years broadening his knowledge of nutrition, meditation, yoga, chi gong, herbal medicine, homeopathy and other “healing systems”. When he opened his practice, he initially started out as an acupuncturist but now takes an integrative and holistic approach with people’s eating habits at the centre of his philosophy. “Finding the right diet, that’s the key,” he says. “If you can get someone’s diet right, I’d say its three-quarters of the problem solved.” In the past decade, autoimmune problems have increased dramatically, he says. “Young women are coming in all the time and that definitely has to do with their lifestyle and what they’ve been exposed to as kids and as teenagers. It’s a combination of all the chemicals in the environment, all the chemicals in food, plus sugar and gluten, and the stresses of life. But when you catch these autoimmune problems early, despite what Western medicine believes, you can often reverse them. You’ve got to be willing to make changes, of course.” He says many of the people who come to see him are already proactive about their health and just need help with fine-tuning their diet.” I see myself more as a teacher than anything else, just trying to guide people who want to be healthier,” he says. Intrigued by Dr Lipman’s belief that we all need to give our digestive systems a rest, my husband and I decided to try his 14-day cleanse. We went cold turkey on caffeine, sugar, gluten and alcohol and were given shakes and supplements that supply nutrients to boost the body’s natural detox process. We were told to have two light meals

Above: Dr Lipman with designer Donna Karan who recommends him to all her friends. Below: The cover of his much celebrated book. Bottom: Hanging with Dr L. In another magazine interview which accompanied this picture he said: “Initially, I was considered a heretic. Now, I’m not even alternative. I’m on the forefront, and I’m leading a wellness revolution.”

a day from a list of allowed foods. By day two we were suffering mild withdrawal symptoms and had headaches and some minor aches and pains. It felt strange to be scoffing supplements such as glutamine, an amino acid that helps to diminish sugar cravings and supports gastrointestinal health. By day five, we felt lighter, more energetic and were sleeping better. At the end of two weeks both of us felt we had hit the restart button. I lost a few pounds and my bloated stomach. My husband was impressed too and says he has “seen the light”. Both of us now realise that we do have food sensitivities and we have changed our diet. One of Dr Lipman’s health coaches, Kerry Bajaj, who was on hand to answer our questions by telephone or e-mail during the fortnight, says that most people move on to Lipman’s Daily Living eating plan. Dark chocolate It is gluten and sugar-free and allows for some dairy, nightshade vegetables, some soy like tempeh and miso and dark chocolate. Others, Bajaj says, do a 90/10 plan where they stick to glutenand sugar-free most of the time and “cheat a little” . This is what my husband and I are doing and, although we celebrated the end of the detox with a bottle of wine, we are drinking less than we used to. Neither of us has ever been health freaks, but something has shifted and we’re not going back to our old ways. “None of this is difficult or even radical,” Dr Lipman agrees. ”It’s not about saying you can never drink again, or eat bread again, or have ice-cream. It’s about finding out what works for your body because why shouldn’t we all feel vital and why should we all get Alzheimer’s or diabetes or heart disease? These are epidemics no country can afford. We have solutions that can help to prevent these conditions and help us stay healthy. It’s just a matter of trying them. I think this way of eating will probably be the norm in 10 or 20 years.” |

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special report • dave buckley

Tulip Group goes Royal

28 REM 05/2014

ulip Group recently said they will start construction immediately on a brand new hotel and residence – Royal Tulip Suites Pattaya. This new 23-storey mixed-use development has received full EIA approval and building permit and will be located in Soi 5 on Phratamnak, just steps from the beach, and close to Tulip Group’s recently opened Centara Grand Phratamnak hotel. This project will consist of just 164 condominium units occupying from the 12th to 22nd floors and the five-star hotel will be beneath. New standards All rooms will offer spectacular views and this property will set new standards for a residential building in this area, say Tulip. Residence owners will have their own private elevators, lobby and entrance, but they will also have full use of all of the hotel’s facilities, which are vast and comprehensive including three swimming pools, three restaurants, spa, fitness centre,

lobby lounge and sky bar, to name but a few. The overall design of the project will be super modern, and will be a striking addition to this up and coming neighbourhood. Tulip claim it will be the most exclusive property to be built in the area, and it’s hard to disagree with them, considering its five-star status and prime location. Prices are not cheap, with the cheapest of units starting just under Bt5m, however considering that this project is going under construction immediately there is not really any pre-sale period while the developer is waiting for approval. Buyers cab be confident that they are buying into a project with full approvals and fully under construction. Tulip have also said they will increase prices by 12 per cent once the first 50 units are sold, and, knowing how quickly Tulip projects sell, I doubt that there are many of those first 50 remaining. l Phone 038 706407 or visit www. rtsuitespattaya.com for more info.

facilities Living in Royal Tulip Suites will be a five-star experience. Condominium owners will have their own private access, a residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lounge and reception as well as private elevators that cannot be accessed by hotel guests. However residential unit ownership will give the added valued benefit of full access to all of the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s facilities including: l Three swimming pools l All-day dining restaurant l Specialty restaurant l Rooftop fitness centre l Coffee club l Rooftop sky bar l Lobby lounge l Business centre l Laundry services l Maid services l In-room dining l Underground car parking

Room Specifications include: l Fully-fitted kitchen l Built-in oven, hob, microwave, extractor, refrigerator and washing machine l Central air conditioning l Marble and ceramic tiled bathrooms l Built-in wardrobes l Built-in vanity counter with marble finish, cabinet and mirror l Frameless glass shower l Enclosure wall-hung toilet l Rain and hand showers l Smart home key card entry l Luxurious marble and ceramic tile and flooring throughout l LED lighting l Large balcony with glass balustrade

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Golden Tulip Hotels & Resorts will maintain and manage the entire building, including recreational and common areas, to ensure that property remains immaculate for both hotel guests and condominium owners, in keeping with expectations of a luxury five-star property.

news • tourism

Is new resort just right for U? The upscale U Hotels & Resorts brand from Absolute Hotel Services (AHS) will launch in Pattaya early next year. U Pattaya will be set on a 5.5-hectare plot of beachfront land between Jomtien and Bang Saray. The property will feature 21 rooms and 21 villas, ranging from 40 to 148sqm. The villas all have private pools and include two-bedroom options. Other facilities will include a beachfront restaurant, rooftop bar, spa, outdoor swimming

The overall design of the resort is of a fishermen’s village concept using rustic wood and bamboo in the interior. All accommodation will feature free Wi-Fi and in-room luxury amenities. Other facilities include beachfront restaurant, rooftop bar, spa, infinity swimming pool, gym and library. Once open, U Pattaya will join the brand’s portfolio in Thailand, with other locations including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Khao Yai and Kanchanaburi. The U brand will also launch in Hua Hin in 2015.

Hilton launches Oyster & Bubble promotion Hilton Pattaya has announced its latest Oyster & Bubble promotion at Horizon restaurant and bar. Guests can savour a perfect match of Fines de Claire oysters and sparkling wine while taking in panoramic sea views of Pattaya Bay at this rooftop restaurant and bar. The Oyster & Bubble promotion features a set of fresh oysters served with seafood dressing, shallot vinegar and fried shallots, and two glasses of French sparkling wine.

There are two options on offer; a set of six Fines de Claire oysters with two glasses of sparkling wine for Bt1,350 and a set of a dozen of Fines de Claire oysters with two glasses of sparkling wine for Bt1,950. The promotion is available daily from 6pm to 1am at Horizon which is located on level 34 in Hilton Pattaya. All prices are nett. l For information or reservations please call +66 (0)38 253 000 or email: bkkhp.pattaya.horizon@hilton.com

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Royal Cliff introduces The Verge for teenagers Royal Cliff has introduced “Pattaya’s coolest teen zone”, The Verge! Designed by an internationally renowned interior design firm, the centre provides the ultimate in teen entertainment as it boasts a variety of activities to keep young adults entertained. Located at the ground floor of the Royal Cliff Beach Hotel, The Verge features interactive elements and the latest video game consoles including the popular Xbox 360 and the flagship motion sensor products Kinect, Playstation 4 and Nintendo Wii. The game stations are all equipped with the newest games in different varieties to suit all tastes. Teens can also have the chance to kick back and unwind at the Pool Table zone and the TV lounge area. With the opening of this ideal teen environment, young adults now have a fun area to relax, hang out and call their own! The Verge is open daily except on Mondays from 9am to 12:30pm and again at 1:30-10pm. For more information contact Ms Monica at theverge@royalcliff.com

meet the agent • dave buckley

The city centre specialist who’s prepared to go the extra mile

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teve Scholey’s story is a fairly typical one in relation to Pattaya. He saw the city while on a stop-over, liked what he saw and when his ultimate destination – New Zealand – did not measure up to expectations he decided to come back. Steve, aged 36, is managing director of Gecko Properties. “I’ve been here about six-and-a-half-years now,” he said, “and I do pride myself on being something of an inner city property specialist. Though, that said, I am always more than happy to go farther afield to help a client.” He set up his Gecko office five months ago in Moo 9 off Soi Buakow which runs parallel with Soi 15 the road that takes you to the rear car park of The Avenue entertainment and shopping complex. So it couldn’t be much more central. I asked him to tell me more about how he arrived here in Pattaya. Steve said that his first experience of Thailand was to stop-over here for a month on his way to NZ where he had family and a job to go to. Little change He was keen to experience a change of lifestyle compared to his time in the UK and New Zealand didn’t tick enough of the “change” boxes. “The country had the same climate and similar lifestyle. It was too much like the UK for my liking.” So his thoughts returned to the “stopover”. “I had sold my house in the UK and so was a fairly free spirit. I decided to come back to Thailand and see more of what is here,” he said. With the financial freedom the sale of his house had given him Steve took his time and got to know the city. He was very much in what the American forces would describe as R&R mode when it occurred to him that: “I didn’t want to end up sitting in a bar all day and making no money.” That decided, Steve opted to make the most of his sales background and

property sales were then – and still are – the main game in town. “It was the obvious choice,” said Steve who had started in screen printing straight from school before going into sales for the same company. He joined a long-established brokerage in Pattaya and over a fourand-a-half year period worked his way up to being the sales manager. “It was a great experience for me and I really felt I learned a lot there but the opportunity arose for me to go it alone and I took it, hence Gecko!” Steve explained: “A lot of agents are not here for the long term. They have no customer service to speak of and are just here to make a quick buck. I have done my apprenticeship here and I felt there were gaps in the market others were not filling. My aim is to build long-term relationships with clients, not here today, gone tomorrow ones.” What changes has he seen in the market recently? “The rental market has grown very strong lately. Although I feel the seasons are merging, the savvy renter know this is a good time to take out an agreement. Taking a 12-month contract now means he or

Steve with the members of his team. Asked why he chose the name Gecko, he replied: “I chose the name because in common with our business and work ethics we wanted to stand out from the crowd. I felt there was too many Pattaya named real estate offices and didn’t want to just blend in.” l Steve can be contacted on 084 656 4846 or email steve@geckoproperties.com (use the hyphen).

she can stay in a unit in high season for low season prices. “I also feel we are all experiencing a massive increase in sales thanks to the improved exchange rate. The baht’s drop means homes and investment properties have become more affordable.” Has the well publicised unrest in Bangkok had an adverse effect? Bounce back “No I don’t feel it has a massive effect. People who know Thailand are confident it will bounce back.” Steve thinks that professional (as opposed to fly-by-night) agents are well placed. “At the moment there are plenty of new developments to sell into but, even if there were to be a slowdown, then the re-sales market would come into its own. Banks seem more willing to lend money against properties that are already built which is good news for the market,” he said. “Property prices are going up here all the time but they are still far behind the sort of outlay those in more westernised countries have to make. I do believe that now’s the time to buy,” he concluded. |

Buy your own paradise • Re-Sales and Rentals • New Developments • Payment Plans Available • Professional Service Jomtien Condo for Sale

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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.

The hewers of stone and drawers of water!

ith the current push for women’s health clinics and practitioners, it is easy for men to feel left out. After all, you’ve no uterus to become cancerous, and although you do have vestigial breasts and it is possible to get breast cancer, I don’t suggest you go looking for breast lumps every month after your non-existent periods. However, there are some specific male areas, and these centralise around the genito-urinary systems. In the med bizz, Urologists are sometimes called the hewers of stone and drawers of water, because much of their work deals with kidney stones and assisting men to be able to pass water adequately. We men do suffer at times!

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‘Super filter’ Your urinary system is a remarkable collection of organs, beginning with the kidney, the “super filter”. The kidney filters the blood and allows the important stuff like blood cells and nutrients to continue waltzing around your circulation, but taking

Making the kidneys exercise, to filter and regulate the circulating blood volume, is simply carried out by drinking several litres of water every day. Yes, it is that easy.

out the nasties, and at the same time helping balance the acidity/alkalinity of the body. Clever organs the kidneys! To keep your kidneys in top shape does not require special kidney exercises, you will be pleased to know. In fact, there is nothing you can do ‘physically’ to make the kidneys perform, but fortunately there are some things you can do to keep them in top condition. The first is to drink plenty of water every day. And by ‘water’, I mean the plain and simple H2O style water, not the stuff that has been mixed with hops, distilled with grain or left to age in oak casks. Kidney exercise Making the kidneys exercise, to filter and regulate the circulating blood volume, is simply carried out by drinking several litres of water every day. Yes, it is that easy. On your desk at work keep a glass of cold water beside you and empty it every 30 minutes. The advantages you get from this are enormous. First off, you have immediately lowered the chances of forming kidney stones,

a potentially dangerous (and always painful) condition. Being a card-carrying coward, I have always preferred the drinking water option to the lying in bed groaning with pain alternative. In fact, around 15 per cent of people will experience stones in their lifetime (especially in the hot climates) and men outnumber women between two to three times. We also know that if you do not change your lifestyle, you are very likely to develop another stone within two years after the first episode. We men do suffer at times! The kidneys drain to the bladder by two tubes called Ureters. These do not do much, other than connect the kidney to the collecting vessel (bladder). However, if a piece of stone gets stuck, you will soon know about it. Renal colic sorts out the men from the boys! Ultimate pain! Become obsessed From the bladder, the urine gets introduced to the outside world by another tube called the Urethra. This is short in ladies and longer in the men folk, allowing us to stand up to pee and become obsessed with how long or short it really is. However, we chaps have another problem in that region, as far as getting the urine from the bladder to the far wall of the urinal. This is called the Prostate, and it encircles the Urethra and when enlarged, closes down the internal diameter of the wee tube. This makes it difficult to pass water and you dribble on your shoes. The prostate can also become cancerous, an even less pleasant state of affairs. We men do suffer at times! |

special report • dave buckley

North Beach is in prime

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hen Nova Group launched their North Beach project a few months ago they gave it the promotional tagline “The Only Address To Be”. Now if I were to say I totally agree with them this magazine might be a lot thinner next month because that’s the sort of statement that goes down like a lead balloon with other developers. However, that said, I can see where Nova are coming from. It’s not absolute beachfront, but it is absolutely close to a white sand beach – just 50 metres away. It’s not right in the heart of Pattaya, but it is perfectly postioned just a five minute taxi drive away from the nightlife scene of the city.

And there is no shortage of local restaurants and bars. It’s not the most expensive, but its units will be assuredly full of quality fixtures and fittings. I will leave it to buyers and brokers to decide if it’s the only place to be, but North Beach does have some distinct plusses. Sought after Key among them is that it will be built on Wongamat, a much sought after area of the city – and it will be nestled between the Dusit Thani hotel and Cape Dara resort. All the 205 apartments in the 25 storey building will enjoy exceptional views of either Pattaya Bay, Koh Larne island or Wongamat.

Pictured above is the projected view from the 24th floor fully equipped gym.

Alongside is how the luxury lobby will look and the architect’s view of the building overall is on the far right. Below are three interiors from a two-bedroom unit showing the lounge, bedroom and dining areas.

The units will be beautifully equipped with top quality fittings, putting the emphasis on pure luxury. Quality bathrooms and kitchens come as standard, as do fitted wardrobes, fully finished floors and ceilings with light fittings, smoke alarms and sprinklers. Air conditioners will also fitted as standard, utilising top quality materials. All will be accessed from a fivestar lobby furnished to a high level. Residents will be well placed to see firework displays and competitions from their balconies and I believe that buying on the correct side of the building may allow tennis fans to watch the world’s top ladies play at the Dusit tournament. There will be a fitness room on

position the 24th floor with an infinity pool occupying the floor above ... which forms the top of the building. Units range from 34sqm onebedroom apartment right up to a 450sqm penthouse suite.

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Security measures For the building there will be security measures that are becoming more and more common such as key card access, closed circuit TV monitoring and a round-the-clock guard presence on the 660 sqw site. The North Beach showrooms are now complete for viewing at the end of Soi 22, Naklua Road. | l For more details contact 038 410 737 or visit the website www. northbeach.asia

quiz • questions

Quirky pastimes of the stars 1. A Learjet is child’s play to this Hollywood star who qualified to fly a Jumbo Jet in 2002 and owns a Qantas-branded Boeing 707 (above right) named Jett Clipper Ella after his children. Who is he? 2. This German beauty admits to a fascination with spiders. She collects insects and has adorned her homes in London and Suffolk with paintings of them. 3. He’s a music mogul and railway fanatic with a liking for steam locomotives. In fact, he owns several, including the 80-ton Thornbury Castle (above left), built for the Great Western Railway in 1946. 4. Pigeon racing seems a rather docile hobby for a heavyweight boxer. But that exactly what this former, much feared world champ likes to do in his spare time.

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5. In the age of the word processor, this Hollywood Oscar winner owns several hundred vintage typewriters. Who is he? 6. An interest in comics has given this chat show host a new career as a comic book author, writing vampire tale Turf (right) and working with Marvel artist Ian Churchill on a series called The Revenger, due out next year.

They have achieved fame through a variety of activities, but can you identify these celebrities from the interests they pursue when they are out of the spotlight? All the answers appear on Page 72.

7. This keen amateur magician entertains friends with his nifty card tricks, but you know him better as a speed merchant in a red charger. 8. A footballer who met his untimely death in 1958, this talented morris dancer missed competing in a national competition because it clashed with an English schools football trial. 9. Tom Cruise has a special room to practice fencing. He likes nothing better than crossing swords with fellow actor Will Smith and which British celebrity pal? 10. When he’s not got them dancing in the aisles, this 68-year-old British rocker loves to play with his model of Grand Central Station in the 1940s (above right). Who is he?

Now for a change of subject: 11. Why did the BBC delay broadcasting highlights of February’s Scottish Premiership match between Ross County and St Mirren for almost six hours? 12. UK Prime Minister David Cameron is believed to be related to a family in which Shakespeare play? 13. What did Italian football club Parma give to its opponents recently to mark its centenary? 14. A man in China used a single first-class airline ticket to get free what for a year? 15. Why was January 1 dubbed Green Wednesday in the US state of Colorado? 16. What did Hull City midfielder Tom Huddlestone do to celebrate scoring a goal at the end of 2013? 17. Cambridgeshire Fire Service in the UK has a new policy where it will refuse to rescue people stuck in lifts until they have been trapped for how long? 18. At 92 metres long, the world’s longest what has been unveiled? 19. Which celebrity recently sold a noted hat for US$44,100?

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advertorial • porchland

Zen’s well defined market

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hose attending university or working at leading factories in the Chonburi region are the target market for Porchland’s latest luxury condo development, Zen City Condominium, on Ao udom-Siracha Sukhumvit Road. At the very end of last month a grand opening of the project’s sales office was due to be staged on-site with famous artists in attendance and great give away gifts and promotions. The project is worth Bt1,400bn and will be sited on seven rai of land. It has been designed in an oriental, modern tropical style set in a peaceful and simple atmosphere. Zen City will be surrounded by mountains and trees the owners will feel at one with nature which is the highlight of the project. There will be two buildings. Each will rise to 15 floors and there will be 17 units of commercial buildings. On-site restaurant Zen will have many amenities. These include a big swimming pool, beautiful zen-style garden, luxurious lobby, a men’s and women’s sauna, a big gym and a Japanese style restaurant which gives a further clue about the target market. Additionally there will be a parking lot with spaces that are equal to more than half of the number of units, a 24-hour security system plus double security doors. Porchland is offering an after-sales service for investors who are eyeing rentals to students or companies who wish to buy and rotate their senior

staff residing there. Chonburi and Pattaya have good universities like Burapa and Karsetsart. And not far from Zen are big industrial estates like Amata, Pantongkasem, Pintong (Laem Chabang), Pintong 3, Haymarat Chonburi and Sahapat group, Laem Chabang. Dramatic growth A spokesman for Porchland said: “There are more than 479 factories employing in excess of 20,000 people and we think more people will demand suburban houses, the growth here is so dramatic. “Middle class people who work in factories or those who have children at university want to have their own home instead of paying rent. At Zen City they could just buy a unit and pay monthly like they would do for renting an apartment. This will appeal to investors as well.” He added: “Our other target is the Japanese investors. A lot of them and their families moved here after the floods of 2011 which also saw the expansion of industrial estates investment. There are more than 15,000 Japanese people in the area plus other foreigners like Cambodians and Burmese. The majority of the Japanese live in the suburban areas like Siracha Nakorn because that neighbourhood has shopping malls, clubs, karaoke, restaurants, hospitals and banks to cater for them. l For further information please call 080 470 9995-7 or visit www.zencitycondo.com, Facebook/ zencitycondo

eastcoast@thaiproperty.com â&#x20AC;˘ www.thaiproperty.com meadow lodge East Pattaya Land size: 1,200 sq.w House size: 500 sq.m Huge landscaped garden Private swimming pool

5 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms Easy access to Eastern Seaboard Unique design In company name

SALE: 16,000,000 BAHT the ville jomtien East Pattaya Choice of land plots House size: +100 sq.m Close to Jomtien Beach In secure village

From 2 Bedrooms From 2 Bathrooms Furniture package available Held in Thai name

sale: From 3,190,000 baht park royal 3 Pratumnak Hill Condo size: 84 sq.m 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathroom Euro kitchen

Corner unit Pool views Fully furnished Easy beach access Held in foreign name

SALE: 4,250,000 baht

golden mountain villa 2 Pratumnak Hill Land size: 65 sq.w House size: 120 sq.m Fully furnished Private swimming pool

2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms Easy beach access In company name

sale: 8,990,000 Baht

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pattaya â&#x20AC;˘ graffeti

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advertorial • häfele

A shower is a shower, right?

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ou never really think about how much you like your shower head until you shower somewhere new, am I right? When you find yourself in a strange hotel room, a friend’s house or at the gym, invariably you will notice the difference between the service you get from these strange fixtures and those you use at home. And, things can go either way. Check into a luxury hotel and you may find yourself consumed with shower envy. Perhaps you’ll get one of those fancy contraptions that employ use of an overhead “rain shower” with the option to switch to a magic hand-held wand with seven or more settings. When I visit the gym I am forced to endure a draconian stainless steel nozzle that has only one setting with water spewing out at such velocity it could scale a fish. Even more daunting is a trip to the local home supply store where you’ll face a wall of chrome-plated confusion. Exactly what makes one showerhead cost 1,100 THB and another 11,000 THB? How does one determine the most relevant features, and more importantly, most reliable quality shower fixtures. Well, to start with you can choose a brand name that is synonymous with quality. Häfele (Thailand) Limited, a leader of hardware equipment, home

appliances, furniture & kitchen fitting and sanitary ware from Germany is a good place to start. Their “Aquasys” line of bathroom fixtures always present a clean design line that is pleasing to the eye and fits in with any bathroom décor. Additionally, parts that are prone to wear, like hand showers, are constructed with ABS plastic which is resistant to scratches and high impact damage. In keeping with Häfele’s philosophy of keeping things simple, the choices won’t overwhelm a homeowner, but definitely offer everything one needs to enhance their home bathing experience. More variety If you aren’t into a multitude of settings, a simple hand shower with one air-spray setting is for you. If you enjoy a little more variety, perhaps a hand shower with three settings to include air-spray, massage, or a combination of air-spray and massage. For the full-on Häfele Aquasys experience, you could choose the luxurious shower column that includes a 200 x 200mm overhead rain shower head as well as a hand shower of your choice. All Häfele Aquasys fixtures use high quality brass and include all the hoses and hardware you need to install them. Check to make sure, not all brands do this. So, as it turns out, not all shower heads are created equal. To avoid confusion and disappointment, keep it simple and stick with the name you know, Häfele Aquasys bathroom fixtures. Contact: Häfele Design Studio Pattaya on 038332-485; www.hafele.co.th or www.facebook.com/ hafelethailand.th

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

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motoring • dr iain corness

Songkran on a motorcycle

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e have just celebrated Songkran, otherwise known as the Thai New Year. An annual event which began as veneration of one’s elders. All companies will have a version of the “Rod Nam Dam Hua” ceremony, where lustral water is poured over the hands of the elderly as a mark of respect. It is quite moving and as a recipient (I must be getting old) quite fun. However, Songkran does not end with the “Rod Nam Dam Hua” as these days the Thai people do not say they are carrying out a ceremony, they say they “play” Songkran. This playing begins as a water fight, and is repeated along every Soi with groups of revelers dancing and drinking, and smearing white paste on people’s faces. This is carried further by the Tourism Association of Thailand (TAT) promoting the fun aspect, inviting tourists to come and splash water as well as the Thai nationals. On any street you will see Thais and foreigners, sopping wet, throwing buckets of water into the faces of

Now all this playing and fun is fine, if everyone can indulge and enjoy, but there were about 400 families who lost husbands, sons, daughters ‘playing’ Songkran.

motorcycle riders, who wobble, but some do fall, with the perpetrators falling about laughing. Now all this playing and fun is fine, if everyone can indulge and enjoy, but there were about 400 families who lost husbands, sons, daughters “playing” Songkran. Yes the road toll over Songkran was around 400 killed and hundreds injured. If this were the West, the government would fall, for allowing this wholesale carnage to occur. Motorcycle deaths The statistics show who gets killed. Eighty percent of the deaths are motorcycle riders, with the majority not wearing crash helmets, and a significant number riding under the influence of alcohol. To reduce the road toll, some politicians have put forward a ban on alcohol edict, but that is merely rhetoric. You only have to drive past the groups of water throwers to see the bottles of cheap whisky with which they refuel their energy. It does not need further commissions of enquiry to see where the impetus should go. Enforce the wearing of

helmets and breathalyze all motorcycle riders, plus any car drivers involved in road accidents. All the legislation is in the statute books already, but, like so many items, is not enforced. No enforcement means no deterrent. I would respectfully suggest to the powers that be that any motorcyclist without a helmet has his motorcycle impounded for a month, and any rider DUI gets jail for a week. Those would be deterrents, but who will enforce this? The BiB are not known for strength in difficult situations with large numbers of people, and with them wet and inebriated, an impossible situation. The only way those suggestions would work would be for them to be applied all the time, so that when Songkran 2015 rolls around, the people will know what is likely to happen. No helmet – motorcycle impounded. DUI – jail. Enforcement would reduce the Thai road toll by at least 50 per cent from its current position of being the third highest road toll in the world. Not a statistic that Thailand should be proud of. |

events • promotions

MissTiffany search begins

events & promotions ARE produced in association with

tournament he has dominated with three wins in the past seven years. No idea who or what it is? Well, he’s Russian, his name is Alexei Chizhov – or Tsjizjov if you prefer – and his particular expertise is in a pastime which is particularly popular here in Thailand – draughts.

 Winners of the 2013 Miss International Queen contest included Miss Tiffany Universe 2013 Nethnapada Kanrayanon (left), the second runner-up.  The Jomtien draughts tournament will feature a 10-time world champion.

The first of Chizhov’s world titles came in 1988 and the last in 2005. He has won more world championships than any player since Isidore Weiss almost a century ago. The tournament he will be here to compete in is the 10th International Draughts Tournament at the Jomtien Garden Hotel between May 30 and June 8. The event will consist of nine rounds in nine days with eight games being played each morning and one game each afternoon. Play will be according to the Swiss system, used when the number of players is so large that it is not possible to play a round robin. The essence of the system is that in each round players are paired who have the same or almost the same score. A player cannot play more than once against the same opponent. The tournament will open at Tulip House on Jomtien Beach Road on May 30 with the first round beginning at 10.00am the following day. Play on subsequent days will begin at 8.00am apart from June 5 when it will begin at mid-day. Players are allowed 90 minutes for the first 40 moves, 60 minutes for the next 35 moves and 10 seconds per move after that. A draw cannot be agreed before the 40th move.

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ighlight of the annual hunt for the Miss Tiffany Universe transgender beauty queen takes place on May 2 when the successor to Nethnapada Kanrayanon will be decided at the Tiffany Show Theatre on Second Road. The winner will go on to represent Thailand in the Miss International Queen contest at the same venue later in the year. Up for grabs will be cash prizes totalling Bt280,000, sashes, trophies and prizes from sponsors. Besides Miss Tiffany Universe, other titles to be decided include Miss Photogenic, Miss Congeniality and Miss Sexy Star with additional prizes for most stylish cocktail dress and Miss Ripley’s popular vote. Thirty hopefuls will line up in the at the Tiffany Theatre at 9.00pm on May 2. The event will be broadcast live on Thai TV Channel 7 from 10.30pm. Finalists were selected during the preliminary round at Central World, Bangkok, on March 26 with the swimsuit contest at Central Festival Pattaya Beach on April 29. The Miss Tiffany Universe contest has been held annually since 1998. VIP seats for the final cost Bt2,800 and mezzanine seats Bt1,800. A 10-time world champion is headed for Pattaya to take part in a

events • promotions

2013 Top of the Gulf Class 1 winner Foxy Lady 6 (left) battles EFG Bank Mandrake.

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Asia’s largest multi-class sailing event, the Top of the Gulf Regatta, comes back to Pattaya between May 1-5 to celebrate its 10th anniversary with a strong fleet of sailors from around the world. With over 250 boats and 700 sailors expected to take part from more than 20 countries, the regatta promises to be one of the biggest and best yet. The regatta is organised by the Top of the Gulf Regatta Organising Committee under the auspices of the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the Platu Yacht Association, Ocean Marina Yacht Club and Royal Varuna Yacht Club. Multinational fleet A strong multinational fleet competed in the prestigious Coronation Cup last year and already Platu charters and entries are looking strong for this year, with the fleet shaping up to be even more competitive. Working closely with the Windsurfing Association of Thailand (WATH) and NeilPryde, the Regatta will host the RS:One Asian Championships over three days – the first time Thailand has hosted this regional championship. Joining the big boat fleet and RS:Ones will be over 60 single and

double-handed dinghies (Lasers, 29ers, 420, 470 etc) and beach catamarans, including a number of Thai and regional gold-medal sailors from the recent SEA Games, as well as over 120 junior sailors from Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, India and Myanmar competing in the Thailand Optimist National Championships. Hard on the heels of the Top of the Gulf is the 13th annual Samui Regatta, set to take place from May 24-31 from the Island’s popular Chaweng Beach. Organised by Regattas Asia, Samui Regatta is headquartered at Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui and attracts over 40 boats and more than 500 sailors of 30 different nationalities each year. Local offshore action will continue with the second round of the Thailand WIndsurfing Championships and the Pattaya International WIndsurfing Cup between May 30 and June 1 at Jomtien Beach. Racing takes place in front of the Surf Kitchen restaurant at Jomtien. Registration begins at 9.00am each day with racing starting at 1.00pm on May 30-31 and 1.30pm on June 1. Tour de Thailand If dry land is more your thing then the cycling Tour de Thailand may be

events • promotions

events & promotions ARE produced in association with

part of a day’s ride to support the charity efforts. The second round of the Thailand National Kart Championship, postponed from March 23, will now take place at Bira Motor Racing Circuit on May 18. Events will consist of three races in the 125 Junior Open category, three races in the 125 Senior Open and three races in the Mini ROK/Mini

 Nan Duangkamon Phongern flies the flag for Team Thailand in the Pattaya International Windsurfing Cup.  Pattaya Panthers Rugby Club are set to stage the 14th Pattaya 10s Rugby Tournament at Horseshoe Point.  A busy month of track action at Bira Motor Racing Circuit includes the second round of the Thailand National Kart Championship.

Kart 60cc. Highlight of the month on the main track at Bira is the second of six events in the Nitto 3K Race Car Thailand 2014 between May 23-25. Like Formula 1, Nitto 3K sees sweeping changes this season with the return of turbocharged engines for the first time since 1988. The new engines will be a 1.6 litre V6 format with an eight-speed semi automatic gearbox. Energy recovery system The Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) is also incorporated into the design of the engine and its usage increased. Finally, Pattaya United have five games scheduled in the First Division of the Thailand Football League during May. They travel to Chiang Mai for a 6pm kick-off on May 4; play Trat at home on May 10 (4.00pm); visit Nakhon Pathom on May 17 (5.00pm); host Nakhon Ratchasima on May 25 (4.00pm) and travel to Saraburi on May 31 (6.00pm). Robert Collins

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.

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right up your street. It will certainly come along Pattaya’s streets as the Eastern Seaboard ride passes through en route to Koh Chang from Bangkok. The Tour de Thailand Charity Rides for Operation Smile are a series of five fully supported bicycle tours throughout Thailand. Riders can choose from the Eastern Seaboard, Northeastern, Northern, Central or Southern rides. The Eastern Seaboard ride begins in Bangkok on May 3 and winds up 800km later in Koh Chang on May 13. Each ride has a limit of 50 registered riders per ride, although they are often joined by local cyclists and cycling clubs who come out for

regular columnist • bart walters

American journalist and property investor Bart Walters has been living in Thailand for more than 13 years, first in Bangkok, then in Phuket and Pattaya then back to Bangkok before rediscovering Pattaya again. 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

What is Luxury? Defining the Unnecessary

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ome pet peeves simply cannot be squelched. Over use or misuse of words drives me berserk. A few months ago it was the word “stunning” that had me all worked up. As I scan the pages of real estate publications, brochures and websites, it occurs to me that the word “luxury” is the new favourite of unimaginative copywriters. Luxury high-rises, luxury lowrises, luxury villas with luxurious gardens and luxury pools and Jacuzzis and ultra-luxury furnishings … does no one own a thesaurus? When I see a word overused this much, it is usually for one of two reasons. Either this word conjures up images of something users consider extremely desirable or the user doesn’t really know what it means. In this case, I’d say it is a little of both. Not to mention that the meaning of the word can change dependent on where you come from. So let’s get a dictionary definition of “luxury” as a starting point. When I look it up on line, there is an alarmingly wide array of descriptions. Dictionary.com indicates that luxury is “free or habitual indulgence in or enjoyment of comforts and pleasures in addition to those necessary for a reasonable standard of well-being”. Webster’s gives a couple of different definitions: 1) a condition or situation of great comfort, ease, and wealth. 2) something that is expensive and not necessary. Many other definitions of the word-of-the-day give it a decidedly

negative connotation, using words like “decadence” and “over-indulgent”. Perhaps I’ve been over-exposed to luxury and become insensitive to this dark side. I mean, I’ve seen shampoo that is described as producing a “luxurious lather” but I’ve never considered it debauchery. Luxury is good – right? So, for the purpose of simplification, I will define luxury as something that is desirable, but not necessary. Something nearly everyone would want, but is not essential to maintaining an adequate standard of living. Now let’s apply this definition to the properties offered in our fair city and sort out the truly luxurious aspects versus the ordinary, necessary or every day.

So, for the

Amenities Many advertisements and sales come-ons tout their amenities as “luxury”, particularly condos. Swimming pools, fitness centres and “luxurious reception centres” are all major selling points. But, have you ever seen a modern day condo building without a swimming pool? A condo without a pool seems unfinished or naked somehow doesn’t it? In fact, I’d say this time of year, in a place like Pattaya, when it’s hotter than the devil’s backside, a swimming pool certainly leans more towards being a necessity than a luxury. Dependent on how well that pool is constructed and/or maintained, a large portion of your maintenance fees will go towards simply keeping

nearly

purpose of simplification, I will define luxury as something that is desirable but not necessary. Something

everyone would want, but is not essential to maintaining an adequate standard of living.

this man-made watering hole from turning green. If that pool isn’t something special, it feels more like a waste of money than a luxury. If you don’t swim, well it’s really no luxury at all is it? If you are a villa, bungalow or house owner with a pool, your luxurious hole in the ground represents a sizable monthly bill and/or hours of attendance. If it’s not something transcendent or a feature you use all the time, none of that sounds like luxury to me. Fitness centres are the big luxury that isn’t. In fact, most fitness centres I’ve seen in new condos are little more than 3 x 5 metre mirrored rooms with some cheap equipment jammed into them. Nearly none of them are professionally planned, staffed or maintained. Professional gym planners have a magic formula that matches population density in a given facility to square metres and equipment necessary to call something a fitness centre and I don’t see much of that going on around here. I see a lot of 3D renderings of luxury fitness centres, but I’ve never seen a real one. Again, if you don’t use the fitness centre, it is simply another expense coming out of your monthly maintenance fee. And, nothing is more disappointing for a fitness enthusiast that a poorly executed gym that was advertised as a luxury. For me, fitness centres in most condos fall under the category of “afterthought” rather than “luxury”. A tennis court is not a luxury

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regular columnist • bart walters

unless it is indoor and/or lighted for night time use. And a “luxurious reception centre” … really? What for? Don’t get me wrong; I like any visitors to be duly impressed when they walk in, but luxury is supposed to be for the residents, not the guests isn’t it? Exactly how many hours do you need to spend hanging out in the lobby to get your fair share of luxury out of the reception area? When you are paying for it, but never use it … sorry, that’s a “luxury” I can do without. Give me a presentable lobby and an alert English-speaking receptionist and I’m good. I’d prefer the “luxury” money went to a hightech security system. But, commonly offered amenities can be luxuries if they are transformed from ordinary to spectacular. (Note to copywriters: “spectacular” is a great replacement word for “stunning”). A swimming pool is a swimming pool. But a swimming pool with a steam room, dry sauna and Jacuzzi jets falls a little more into the column labelled “nice, but not necessary”. A swimming pool with covered cabanas available, towel service, poolside dining and that uses a saltwater chlorination system to keep my eyes from burning; now we’re getting luxurious. Several of the new condo projects being built here in Pattaya are actually using the pool as the centrepiece for the whole project. As developers become more attuned to the needs of the “family vacationer”,

Exactly how many hours do you need to spend hanging out in the lobby to get your fair share of luxury out of the reception area?

water oriented recreation is becoming of paramount concern. Lagoon style mega-resort water parks are the new norm and if they come off as planned, they are definitely in the “luxury” category. A hole in the ground with water is a swimming pool; water slides and pirate ships … luxury. A fitness centre that is professionally planned, populated with state-of-the-art equipment, properly maintained and staffed with knowledgeable personnel sounds a little more like a nicety I can warm up to. An in-house yoga instructor sounds really nice, but not necessary. A real locker room with hot showers, towel service and a juice bar would certainly make me feel like I was in a luxurious fitness centre. A reception centre that functioned as “Resident Services Central” instead of window dressing could upgrade its status to luxury if they facilitated laundry service, maids, transportation, restaurant reservations and tee times. Just having Wi-Fi available in the lobby isn’t enough to call it “luxury”. (Besides, ADSL in every unit is luxury … Wi-Fi is virtually analog!) Just sticking the word “luxury” in front of the name of an amenity doesn’t make it so. Upgrading that amenity to something over-the-top and desirable-but-not-necessary does. Finally, with respect to amenities as luxuries; I disagree with the notion that they have to be expensive or have a “bling” factor. These things don’t have to cost a bunch of money to be considered

luxury. Many luxurious features are expensive, but pay owners back in the long run. In fact, I’d say the right amenities could actually save residents money. Swimming facilities that keeps your family entertained without the need to venture out to expensive attractions is a luxury you can afford. A fitness centre that erases the need to join a local health club definitely falls on the proper side of the luxury ledger sheet. And, an in-house valet-like service that relieves you from the need to shop around and do your own legwork is definitely a money-saving luxury. So you see what I’m saying? Luxury can actually be valuable even if it is an extravagance. (Hey copywriters, “extravagance” … there’s a good replacement for the “L” word). This idea that luxury is a gauche or vulgar display of wealth is outdated. Luxury is good. (And yes, I do have the nerve to redefine luxury under my own terms because I have the luxury of writing my own articles). Regional definitions Particularly with condos, some of the items presented and promoted as luxury inside the unit may or may not be, according to regional definitions. A few years ago, I bought a big three-bedroom condo that had some “luxury” features like the ability to access the luxurious swimming pool directly from my equally luxurious balcony. However, there was no hot water heater in the kitchen. In a big family size condo unit, I was

regular columnist • bart walters

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expected to clean up after messy family meals with cold water. When I confronted the European developer about this fact, he looked at me like I was an alien. Apparently, wherever it is he comes from hot water in the kitchen is a luxury. (A luxury I might add, he installed before I purchased the unit.) It then occurred to me that I may have a different idea about what is necessary or “standard” in a condo as opposed to a “luxury option”. And, speaking of kitchens; I have a real issue with how “luxury” a kitchen may or may not be. Whenever scouring the pages of real estate listings, you’ll constantly see the phrase “European” kitchen. Exactly what does that mean? After years of research, I have concluded that here in Thailand “European Kitchen” means, “not a Thai Kitchen”. Luxury kitchen Thai kitchens have counter tops that rise only to about the thighs of the average foreigner, have no oven, usually only two burners and a minibar-sized fridge. European kitchens usually include at least a four-burner cook top, a waist high counter top, and at the very least a fridge that nears two metres tall and possibly a microwave oven. They may or may not have a conventional oven. I do not consider any version of these types of kitchen to be “luxury”. If you happen to see a place advertise an “American Kitchen”, it

This idea that luxury is a gauche or vulgar display of wealth is outdated. Luxury is good.

is possible that you’ll crossover into the luxury range. As an American who usually installs American Kitchens in every home he owns, I can tell you exactly what this term means. An American Kitchen includes, but is not limited to regular height counters, tons of storage space, a four-six burner cooktop, an oven, a microwave, a double door fridge with an icemaker, a double-sided sink, and quite possibly an automatic dishwasher and wine chiller. And normally, the kitchen space is large enough to put a table in or for the kids to ride their tricycle in. That dear reader is a “luxury” kitchen. Wet bars and freestanding bars (another American standard) also fall into the realm of luxury in this country. I suppose how necessary they are depends on how much you drink; but a fully stocked home pub is always nice. Wine cellar … luxury. Sometimes I see “built-in wardrobes” touted as luxury items which leaves me wondering, “Well where do you expect me to put my clothes?” “Walk-in” closets are always thrown out there as a luxury item when they are standard even in the most modest condos and apartments in my home country. Somewhere to store your shoes and socks shouldn’t be defined as luxurious unless the developer is offering a proper dressing room with cedar-lined walls and built-in makeup table for the ladies. So, dependent on where you are from, the definition of “luxury”

may change. Americans swoon over caviar while Russians yawn. One man’s necessity is another man’s luxury and vice versa I suppose. Not a luxury Many appliances hold luxury status in the eyes of developers like washing machines. Ok, I’ll admit, a washing machine isn’t a necessity, so it could be a luxury. But if you’re going to call it a luxury item, at least makes it a full-size washer with a dryer. When was the last time you saw a condo with a washer and a dryer? Usually the luxury clothes washing appliance included in new condos is one of those miserable washer/dryer combo contraptions that is guaranteed to spit out your clothes damp and wrinkled beyond repair. Show me a Siemans washer and vent-less dryer in its own laundry room and I’ll call it luxury. “State-of-the-art entertainment systems” are also on top of the list that supposedly makes a place “luxurious”. Let’s face it folks, a TV is not a luxury, it is a necessity. And, including the crappy little surroundsound system that comes with them free does in no way redefine it as luxurious. If you want to call the “entertainment system” a luxury, I don’t want to see a bunch of speakers with wires running every which way and a basket full of remote controls sitting on the coffee table. Show me a place with a Bose “Video Wave” system that boasts a

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regular columnist • bart walters

46” LCD HD screen that emanates the highest quality theatre sound available without a single speaker hanging off the wall or sitting on the floor. Show me that one universal remote that runs everything from the satellite TV service to my i-Pod. That’s entertainment luxury. 50” or larger internet married HD TVs with wireless theater speakers … luxury. Two TVs on one wall so the kids can play video games while you watch football … ahhh yes … luxury. An electronic key-card door lock is not a luxury … you’ve got to have some kind of key. A fingerprint entry system is luxury as it eliminates the need to carry around a key, something we all desire but is not necessary. A smart-house set up that allows you to turn on your lights, air con and microwave from your i-Phone on the way home from shopping … that is luxury. Furniture packages are not luxuries … where do they expect you to sit? Furniture packages can be incentives to buy, but nobody is taking anything off the price just because you don’t want their mediocre stuff. Furniture packages can be luxurious is they are unnecessarily high quality, a rare event in our market I’m afraid. Show me a high quality leather sofa the size of an aircraft carrier. Show me a king size bed with a top grade latex mattress that you know costs Bt100,000. Give me a dining table with a two-metre tempered and beveled glass top surrounded by

Sometimes I see ‘built-in wardrobes’ touted as luxury items which leaves me wondering, “Well, where do you expect me to put my clothes?”

suede covered chairs. That’s luxury buddy! Bathroom luxury Perhaps one of the most obvious places to promote the “luxurious” nature of any place is in the bathroom. How many pictures have you seen of marble topped sinks, glass-enclosed showers and oh-soinviting bathtubs? The fact is, none of those things are truly luxuries. That counter top had to be made of something, you have to bathe in either a shower or a bathtub anyway don’t you? Yes, they are all dolled up and look nice, but what is it about them that is unnecessarily nice? If you want me to believe your bathroom is luxurious, show me a bathroom completely dedicated to a giant Jacuzzi. Better yet, show me a sea view Jacuzzi! How about his-andher showers? A hand-held for her and a rain head for him. How about a Jack-n-Jill bathroom that gives the man and lady of the house adjoining but separate facilities? Totally unnecessary and completely luxurious! Other bathroom items that are true luxury are heated towel racks and toilet seats, shaving mirrors and pumice tiles installed on shower floors to exfoliate your feet. Steamshowers are also very nice and totally unnecessary. Ordinary items As I said early on in this article, overuse of the word luxury is the result of two things. One is not having

a clear understanding of what luxury actually is, and perhaps a shortage of synonyms or more accurate adjectives. The other is the more obvious temptation to call something ordinary “luxury” just because the word is so emotive with buyers. Flooring is not “luxury” unless of course it is Brazilian marble, African Maple wood or some other imported and exotic material. LED lighting is not a luxury, (in fact it is mandated to be included in new homes in the US and other green conscious countries). Remote controlled dimmer switches on your LED lights … luxury. Remotely raised and lowered blinds and curtains separate plain old window treatments from those we should consider luxurious. Doors and lights and ceiling fans are all just ordinary stuff unless they are elevated to the luxury level by being so well turned out or performing in such a superior manner that they are totally and delightfully unnecessary. Your own terms In the final analysis, your own personal definition of luxury is what counts. When you see a sparkling 3D rendering of a new “Luxury High Rise”, keep in mind this tag may have been placed by a developer who is not from your half of the globe, or a copywriter using his third language to describe a place he’ll be ever to afford living in. In the end, like beauty and art, luxury is in the eye of the beholder. |

construction • update

Progress in Jomtien and Naklua

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ast month we took a look at how Heights Holdings’ projects in the Pratumnak area were progressing so this month we turn our attention to the company’s developments in the Jomtien and Naklua areas. Here is the latest construction update: Wong Amat Tower (Naklua Soi 16) The nine-storey, separate covered parking complex for the Wong Amat Tower is nearing completion, with finishing works and rooftop landscaping started. Landscaping for the drop-off area is now underway, as is the work on the retention wall. The Wong Amat Tower waste water treatment and water tanks are complete. The rooftop area is nearing completion, with the pool area complete and final landscaping works underway. Final finishing works on the 39th floor gym area, changing rooms and sauna facilities are well underway. The ground floor swimming pool is also completed, with architectural work in the lobby and external lounge area approaching completion.

Architectural work on apartments up to the 36th floor is complete, with ceramic tiles, ceilings, plastering, double paint finishes, plumbing and M&E systems also in place. Kitchen fittings are in place up to the 27th floor, along with the majority of built-in furniture. Internal public area, corridor finishing and electrical work is underway up to the 25th floor. Club Royal Phase 2 (Naklua Soi 12) Piling is now complete, with Building C foundations finalised and structural work underway up to the 3rd floor. Building D foundations are complete, with the structural skeleton built up to the 5th floor. Laguna Beach Resort (Jomtien 2nd Road) Structural work is now complete across all three buildings at Laguna Beach Resort Jomtien. Building A unit architectural work including plastering, painting, tiling and ceiling installation are complete. Piping, electrical and sanitary systems are also in place. Installation of aluminium window

l For more information please email info@heightsholdings.com or call +66 85 282 6454.

and balcony frames has begun, with the installation of built-in furniture expected to commence imminently. Architectural works have begun in Building B, with all piping, electrical and sanitary systems installed and tested. System installation and architectural works have now started in Building C. Architectural work in the lobby areas of buildings A and B has begun. Swimming pool levels are now being prepared and installation is set to commence next month. Laguna Beach Resort 2 (Thepprasit Soi 9/17) Buildings B & D of Laguna Beach Resort 2 are built up to the 7th floor. Interior wall brick work is now underway up to the 3rd floor. Laguna Beach Resort 3 – The Maldives (Thepprasit Soi 17) External fencing work at the Maldives’ site is complete. The viewing tower has been disassembled and the onsite sales office removed. Piling is now underway,and 12 per cent complete.

special report • bart walters

Now and then – Jimmy Page at Jesters (left) and above in his Led Zeppelin heyday.

Rock-n-Roll Charm School The secret to handling fame

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ell the truth … if you woke up tomorrow and you were a famous rock star, how would it affect you? Would you be an anti-social recluse? Would you be a “look at me … look at me … don’t you want my autograph” type? Would you be a pedantic prick, demanding special treatment and flinging cell phones at hotel clerks? I’ve been witness to several barstool debates on this subject here in Pattaya; and for good reason. We just happen to have a few local residents and repeat visitors that fit into the “rock star” category. One in particular is considered Rock-n-Roll Royalty. Not star-struck Because I grew up in some pretty celebrity laden places, I’m not all that star-struck when I meet famous people. Mostly I’ve met big sports stars and the occasional actor. Until I moved to Pattaya, I had very little exposure to rock stars. I am happy to report; the rockers I’ve met seem to be the ones who handle fame the best. A couple years ago a grand reopening of a local East Pattaya pub drew my attention and I showed up,

camera in hand and ready to report. The featured band was a local bunch called Band of Smiles; always a crowd favourite. What made the occasion different was the guest appearance of Roddy Lorimer, a Scottish trumpet player who has shared the stage and tour bus with Rock-n-Roll legends like Eric Clapton, The Who and even The Rolling Stones. The crowd grew through the first couple of sets in anticipation of Roddy’s arrival. When he showed up with my old friend and bass player Andy Goodson, he was like a local politician slapping backs and kissing babies. Everybody knew Roddy and he had time for them all. He sat down at my table near the stage, grabbed a cold beer and tore the top off a new pack of cigarettes.

What made

Favourite uncle When Roddy joined the band on stage, they transcended to a new level. He played background licks, he played scorching solos … Roddy and his horn turned the Band of Smiles into the Band of $*%#-eating grins. What’s more, he was totally immersed and interactive with this local band, even

legends like

the occasion different was the guest appearance of Roddy Lorimer, a Scottish trumpet player who has shared the stage and tour bus with Rock-n-Roll Eric Clapton, The Who and even The Rolling Stones.

engaging in a solo-lick battle with local guitar hero Pop. And whenever he returned to his chair for a beer and a fag … he had time to commiserate with everyone, including me. He didn’t seem like a rock star so much as your favourite uncle who can play the hell out of a trumpet. About a year ago, I was hanging out at my favourite Rockn-Roll hideaway when the owner approached me escorting a friendly silver-haired Englishman and said: “Bart, this is Tony Stevens … he is a musician and used to play for Foghat and Savoy Brown”. I shook the gentleman’s hand, gripped it tight and didn’t let go. Slow ride I heard myself begin to babble, “Tony … 1973 … Orlando Sports Stadium … 38 Special and Humble Pie opened for you … your lead singer wore a gold Lemay suit … it was the first concert my mother allowed me to attend ever.” Tony cackled with pleasure and queried, “Were we any good mate?” We talked for 30 minutes about everything from music to life in Thailand to the

Now and then – Roddy (above far right) on stage with Eric Clapton. Tony Stephens with Foghat below and today right.

Rock royalty Last month I found myself back in my favorite rock-n-roll joint when in walked the Hammer of the Gods himself, Mr Jimmy Page. Me and legions of others would argue to the death that Jimmy’s group Led Zepplin was and still is the greatest rock band to ever grace our

planet. Jimmy’s hard driving licks are some of the most imitated ever. In faded jeans and a Jester’s Care for Kids T-Shirt, Jimmy floated through the afternoon crowd like the Pope going by in the Pope-mobile. Everyone in the room just kind of starred in disbelief. The DJ reflexively threw on some vintage videos of Jimmy playing in his early days with the Yardbrids, poofy hair sideburns and all. He made his way back to the corner where us locals hang out and just chilled listening to the music like everyone else. Eventually, fans unable to control their urges began to approach him spewing adulations and asking him to pose for photos … present company included. Jimmy’s warmth and grace under this onslaught was inspiring. He had time and a full-on rock star smile for everybody. The daytime manager had the DJ play a video of some new obscure teenage guitar aficionado. Bobbing his head and pursing his lips, Jimmy said, “Those are some tasty licks man”. Only guys like Jimmy Page can talk like that without sounding goofy. I remember thinking to myself, “I

In faded jeans and a Jester’s Care for Kids T-Shirt, Jimmy floated through the afternoon crowd like the Pope going by in the Popemobile.

could never be that cool”. What many people may not know is how involved Jimmy Page is with Pattaya’s favourite local charity Jester’s Care for Kids. For several years now, he donates some of his signed vintage guitars for the annual fundraiser bringing in millions of baht during the raffle. There’s always a bidding war to obtain such a coveted piece of rock-n-roll history. Innate ability? It takes something special to be a rock star, and I don’t think it’s just musical talent. These three guys have me wondering. Is the ability to handle fanatical admiration innate or is it learned? When everyone you meet wants a piece of you, how does one learn to show such composure and grace? I suspect that somehow, somewhere there is a “rock and roll charm school” they all have to graduate from before the word “star” can be attached to their name. In any case, having vintage rockers of this calibre hanging out here in our little slice of heaven is just another in a long list of things that make Pattaya so “cool”. |

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fact he had bought a condo near the beach in my home town. More recently, I ran into Tony at a new live music venue called Mood Blues Café on Pratumnak Hill. Tony’s local band is called “Slow Ride” and they play weekends. We picked up the conversation right where we left off and everyone that walked in the door seemed to know him. Just like Roddy Lorimer, Tony Stevens has time and a smile for all of his fans old and new and is willing to talk all night about music. But, you will soon realize this guy is a real rock star when you see Slow Ride take the stage and start tearing through everything from blues classics to re-tooled pop. A more professional performer you won’t see in these parts.

quiz • answers

1. John Travolta. The 59-yearold actor owns five planes and celebrated earning his Jumbo Jet wings by flying 35,000 miles across 10 countries with his wife and children. 2. Claudia Schiffer. She has been fascinated by insects since she was first enchanted by dew droplets sparkling on spider webs when she was a child. 3. Pete Waterman of Stock, Aitkin and Waterman music producer fame. The 66-year-old has a lifelong passion for steam trains and his barn is home to a huge model of Leamington Station. 4. Mike Tyson. The one-time ‘Baddest Man on the Planet’ has been raising birds since he was eight and has several champions. 5. Tom Hanks. The Oscar winner has more than 200 vintage portable typewriters and says he can tell the “thick, thick, thick” sound of a 30s Remington typewriter from the “chalk, chalk, chalk” of a midcentury Royal.

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6. Jonathan Ross. The chat show host is an avid comic book collector and has written Turf, a five issue limited series comic book set in 1920s Prohibition-era New York. 7. Fernando Alonso. The twice Formula One world champion is an accomplished magician and likes to entertain mechanics and fellow drivers with car tricks before a race.

 Hull City player Tom Huddlestone with his shorn locks after scoring his first goal in two years.

8. Duncan Edwards. The 21-year-old Manchester United player who died as a result of injuries received in the 1958 Munich air crash was selected to compete for Dudley schools in the National Morris and Sword Dancing Festival.

 Former heavyweight boxing champ Mike Tyson has a love affair with pigeons.

9. David Beckham. The former England captain was introduced to fencing by Tom Cruise in 2008.

 The world’s longest ever airship was unveiled at Cardington in the UK by Hybrid Air Vehicles.  Pharrell Williams with the Vivienne Westwood ‘Jelly Mould’ hat he wore at the Grammys and which he sold on eBay to fast food chain Arby’s for $44,100. The money went to charity.  Captain John Travolta at the controls of his Boeing 707. Travolta earned his wings as a Jumbo pilot in 2002.

10. Rod Stewart. His handiwork is so highly regarded that his model of Grand Central Station in the 1940s made the cover of the magazine Model Railroader. 11. Swearing. The language from the crowd was so bad the BBC decided to delay transmission of the match until after the watershed. 12. Macbeth. David Cameron is believed to be related to Lord Macduff whose family Macbeth ordered to be killed. 13. Vacuum cleaners. Parma players handed out robot vacuum cleaners made by Vorwerk, the club’s shirt sponsor. Hands up how many thought the answer would be ham!

14. Food. The man reportedly changed his flight itinerary more than 300 times, allowing him to eat a free meal each day in the VIP lounge at Xi’an airport. When China Eastern Airlines began investigating, he cancelled the ticket and received a full refund. 15. Cannabis sales for recreational use became legal in Colorado on January 1. 16. He got a haircut. The player grew his hair for charity until he next found the net after his last goal in April 2011. 17. Three hours. The fire brigade says it is called out to too many incidents and believes that property owners should already have a plan to free people from lifts. It will now charge for callouts where there is no danger. 18. An airship. The British-built Hybrid Air Vehicle cost about £60m to make. 19. Pharrell Williams. The singersongwriter’s infamous “Jelly Mould” hat has been sold on eBay to fast food chain Arby’s.

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 Century Chonburi: Designed by Nick Faldo, this is an inexpensive 18-hole, par 72 course, often not too busy during the week. Clubhouse has little to commend it, but this is reflected in low green fees. Tel: 081 304 1545 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 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

Whatever standard you play to you will find a course to suit within an hour’s drive. Here are just some of them.

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 The Emerald: Close to Bang Chang, Emerald is another course where Nick Faldo has left his mark. He designed this in conjunction with the late Desmond Muirhead. Many holes test accuracy, not length, of drive. Tel: 038 941 111

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 Pattaya Country Club: located 25 kms outside Pattaya on Route 36 is popular with expat golfers. This 18-

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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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 15 km 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 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.

THE COOL BAR ON SOI KHAOTALO OPEN DAILY FROM 1pm • For more information call +66 (0)87 747 8555, + 66 (0)89 250 5691 or email info@boozeloungepattaya.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 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: blueolivepattay@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 M.10, Soi Pattaya-land 2, Pattaya Beach Road. 038 424 128 Lobster Pot: huge restaurant serving all seafood, specialising in lobster and tiger prawns. Walking Street opposite Pattaya Soi 14, South Pattaya. Tel: 038 426 083

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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movers & shakers

Eastin packed with surprises

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any of the guests were pleasantly surprised by the exquisite new facilities offered by the Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn on their 33rd executive floor when Movers & Shakers met there late in March. There were meeting facilities that can easily accommodate some 200 guests in a generous and luxurious ambiance. Hotel manager Patrick Manthe and his team truly show-cased their facility by offering the M&S distinguished guests a very large and attractive variety of finger food delicacies; including a nice variety of mouthwatering mini-desserts and a nicely presented oven-baked carvery specialty. This function was sponsored by Kingdom Property and co-sponsor A+Plus Pattaya Property. |

coffee break • robert collins

Don’t be scared to ask

Coffee break

Hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia is fear of the number 666; Triskaidekaphobia is fear of the number 13; Xanthophobia is fear of the colour yellow; Turophobia is the fear of cheese; Somniphobia is the fear of falling asleep; Coulrophobia is the fear of clowns; Hylophobia is the fear of trees and Phobophobia is the fear of fear. Finally, Hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia is the fear of long words!

R R ___ ___ _____ R D __ __ ___ ___D, __ ____ ________ R _______ D ___R _______ ,___ ___ _______ __ ___ 4

18 14 21

12 1 24

21 8 13

21 8 21 11 4

10 21

21 22

15 1

CRYPTOGRAM

Answers to all the puzzles appear on Page 94

20 20

24 21 11 21 11 15 21 24

18 14 21

12 1 24

The greatest singers of all time according to Rolling Stone Magazine: 1. Aretha Franklin (USA, born 1942) 2. Ray Charles (USA, 1930-2004) 3. Elvis Presley (USA, 19351977) 4. Sam Cooke (USA, 1931-1964) 5. Lohn Lennon (UK, 1940-1980) Aretha Franklin – the greatest.

× -

31 ×

+ ×

11 +

+ 10

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5 24 4

12 5

21 8 13 22

sudoku 7 3 9

3 5 2

6 8

6 1

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7 9

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6. Marvin Gaye (USA,1939-1984)

8 5

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Two-minute trivia 1. Which planet has moons named after characters from the works of Shakespeare? 2. Which British city traditionally has its own independent telephone network system? 3. Which ingredient in jelly makes it stick?

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12 5

Six of the best

6 21

18 14 21

Decode this Martin Luther King, Jr quote by deciphering the missing letters. We’ve given you two to start.

number cruncher Fill in the missing numbers using 1-9 to complete the equation. Each number is used once. Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.

22 4 20 21 8

8 12 18

4. Which book was first published in Edinburgh in 1768 and later moved home to Chicago?

S Y K S G R O S S U M R U U X S M H K B K A R O V D K B S D D C H R O G Z C H B G U T H Z O W T D S U S C H U B E R T G C S I J W C D C T M K R F P A Y M F H I S N B A G A B N G Y L J Z Z D U U H N D C N K H T K O G J L D S N T C H A I K O V S K Y A Z T R M E S N O N G S V N F V C A O M V G V U G O H S Y I I Z H P V V H I U O B F W L G V C P A S Q U N H U X H F W E N A O H O F S L M O Z A R T P D D R Z T L L R B T I D W F O E N S T P X F B V K P R O K O F I E V S J S Q S H S N X T S A K L M B D F J B Y B H Find the names of these 12 classical composers

5. Which was the first club to be knocked out of the FA Cup on penalties?

Beethoven

Dvorak Mendelssohn Mozart

Mussorgsky

Prokofiev Rachmaninoff Schubert

6. Glossitis is inflammation of which part of the body?

Shostakovich Stravinsky Tchaikovsky Vivaldi

wining • dining

the chow hound ... The Zen of Japanese Food

It’s not just sushi you know?

There’s always a special seasonal menu or promotion going on. The month I was there at Central Festival’s Zen it was the ‘Hokkaido Special’

Looked tempting There’s always a special seasonal menu or promotion going on. The month I was there at Central Festival’s Zen it was the ‘Hokkaido Special’, featuring cuisine from that city. On this trip, The Chow Hound wasn’t in the mood for sushi, although some of the sushi and sashimi arrangements offered on the flat screen display outside Zen certainly looked tempting. One thing The Hound enjoys about Zen in Thailand is there are always “fusion dishes” that give traditional Japanese ingredients a Thai twist. The octopus salad (tako in Japanese), was dressed up with Thai chilies that had The Hound reaching for the Sake. Another starter The Hound can rarely resist is the pork or shrimp stuffed “gyoza”. They are little bite-sized dumplings fried to golden goodness and served with a dipping sauce … tail-wagging good!

For the main event The Hound chose the Gindara steak. Gindara is called sable fish in the US and black or blue cod everywhere else. It has white flesh is soft-textured and mild in flavour, similar to a Chilean sea bass. Health nuts should note that this fish is very high in long-chain omega 3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, containing approximately as much as wild salmon. The Hound chose it because it is so fatty and smells so good when they grill it. The combination of the spicy salad, the crunchy pork dumplings and the soft-asbutter texture of the fish were the perfect combination. The warm sake just put a warm glow on the whole experience. The Hound reflected on those poor souls who either deplore sushi or have never tried it. None of that should keep them out of a great restaurant like Zen. Tear into their mammoth menu and see all the choices that aren’t raw fish. The Chow Hound highly recommends the “Bento Boxes” and “Sets”. They are a great entry into the world of Japanese cuisine. And, try some sushi rolls that aren’t raw fish at all, like the Dragon Roll. Keep an open mind and you’ll soon discover that Zen has something for everyone.

93 REM 05/2014

ushi is a polarising subject with many people. The Chow Hound has discovered that there are three categories of people regarding sushi. Those that love it … those that hate it … those that have never tried it; nobody is ambivalent about sushi. The Hound loves sushi and genuinely feels sad for the other two categories. But, The Chow Hound’s message this month is, “there’s more to a Japanese restaurant than raw fish”. For some reason, we all consider sushi the main attraction at Japanese eateries like Zen, but there is so much more. The Hound chooses Zen as his “go to” Japanese joint because of its convenient location and consistency. Eat in a Zen anywhere in Thailand and you get the same experience. One thing that never changes at Zen is the welltrained staff and cartoonish large menus.

mystery columnist • our man at large

Our mystery writer reflects on the need to Pattaya to enjoy a longer high season and the impact this would have for those who do business here.

Time to extend high season

94 REM 05/2014

he end of the high season is always met by mixed emotions for many people who live in Pattaya. On the one hand there is the relief that it is now quieter and we can get around the city far easier. Things will be cheaper, we can eat in our favourite restaurants without fear of been disturbed by hordes of tourists and we can walk along quiet beaches. All this is great, unless, of course, you are one of the many people living here looking to run a business and capitalise of the high season. Even prior to the Songkran Festival I think it was obvious that many of the tourists had already gone back to their home countries. The roads, bars and restaurants were obviously quieter than a few weeks previous with staff looking on anxiously for their next customer.

This is not good for the individual businesses and it is not good for the city as a whole. If the city is too quiet it may lose the attraction for guests coming in the future. The full impact of the low season is very hard to quantify as so many businesses here rely on the tourist, but there is also a large percentage that focus mainly on the Thai and expat market so these businesses should be largely unaffected, or so you would think.

For businesses

Obvious economics In reality most will be affected to some degree simply due to the fact that there will be less money in the pot. If there is less money coming into the city there will be less to spend – this is obvious economics but can be countered by the notion that the high season “carries” the low season and therefore balances itself out.

shorter but is

I am sure that they would like the high season to last longer and the low to be

there anything that can be done to facilitate this?

Whatever your thoughts are regarding tourists coming to Pattaya I think that there is one thing that we can all agree on and that is that they are essential for the long term growth of the city. Tourists spend money all over the city, enabling businesses to grow and the distribution of wealth to continue. This leads to improvements in the infrastructure of the city as well as improvements to the hotels and condos and, as I have said on numerous occasions, it very common for these tourists to become residents in the medium to long term – again enabling the city to continue to grow. So, if you are turning your noses up at the tourists, remember, you probably came here as one yourself. For businesses I am sure that they would like the high season to last longer and the low to be shorter but is there anything that can be done to facilitate this? In reality there any

Attractive deals I have heard a few comments this year in both Pattaya and Bangkok that the hotels are offering some attractive deals to encourage more visitors to the cities. This can only be a good thing as every incentive must be used to get more people to Thailand after all the negative publicity that has been received recently. Once people are here they can see the extent of the ‘troubles’ for themselves. So, hopefully, there will

be every chance of them returning to Thailand in the future, whether that be for business, as tourists or perhaps to join the expat population already here in Thailand! As I have just mentioned, the hotels are doing their part to try and encourage visitors to come to Thailand but once people are here there needs to be something for them to do and, of course, they must feel safe. Bangkok is pretty much a yearround city, anyway, but it is perhaps something that Pattaya needs to look more at addressing. The many golf courses continue to prove popular and there are places such as Nong Nooch Gardens and the awaited Cartoon Network water park. But, again, these are more outdoor activities which, needless to say, can be reliant on the weather. Perhaps efforts need to be made to come up with new activities that depend on the weather to a far lesser degree and cater for all tastes. We already have excellent restaurants with a wide variety of choice along with a flourishing nightlife scene so it really is daytime activities that we are short of! If this is addressed we really could look at extending the high season or at the very least improving the number of visitors in the low season. If all of these goals can be met, it seems likely that Pattaya will continue to grow at the same rate that

We already have excellent restaurants with a wide variety of choice along with a flourishing nightlife scene so it really is daytime activities that we are short of!

has been experienced in recent years if not faster. This will obviously change the character of the city to some degree but it is sure to be beneficial in terms of the financial future both of the city itself and those who earn their living from it. Further growth will require even more developments which will good news for the many established developers in the city and will probably lead to an increase in the number of high-end hotels as well. Prosperous market All of this will bring more money into the city to the benefit of everyone not least the real estate agents who earn their money in a prosperous market. Let’s hope that all this does happen and we can all reap the rewards. As always, space is running short. I hope that Pattaya continues to be everything that you want it to be from a personal perspective and that the city continues to grow and evolve so that everyone can prosper. The dream of a longer high season may be just a pipe dream but is prospect that would please many. It is obvious that the city has a long way to go to achieve this but perhaps it isn’t so unrealistic! So until next time, keep enjoying the Land of Smiles! |

95 REM 05/2014

many constraints which are out of the control of City Hall, tourist authorities or anyone else for that matter. The fact that the weather can be extremely hot in April and May and then we are into the wet season obviously has a significant bearing on the number of visitors that come to Pattaya as many of the daytime activities at least are concentrated outdoors. However, from my experience, it is noticeable that we get a number of golfing groups come over for a few months at a time in the low season to make the most of the cheaper green fees and quieter courses. While these groups only play a small part in the overall picture, their impact is both welcome and encouraged. If other groups started to follow a similar course of action we could perhaps see the ‘low season’ extending the ‘high season’.

coffee break • answers

Ring: 087 988 0799

Coffee break answers

cryptogram

two-minute trivia

1 Uranus; 2 Kingston-upon-Hull; 3 Pectin; 4 Encyclopedia Britannica; 5 Scunthorpe United; 6 Tongue NUMBER CRUNCHER AND SUDOKU 5

+ 7

+ ×

2 10

× +

× ÷

+ +

3 39

5 8 3 9 6 2 1 4 7

1 7 6 5 8 4 2 3 9

4 9 2 3 1 7 8 5 6

7 3 9 6 2 5 4 1 8

2 5 1 8 4 9 6 7 3

6 4 8 1 7 3 5 9 2

8 6 4 7 3 1 9 2 5

3 1 5 2 9 6 7 8 4

96 REM 05/2014

Multiply and divide before adding or subtracting. The second row down therefore is 1 x 2 = 2; 8 + 2 = 10.

9 2 7 4 5 8 3 6 1

‘In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.’ – Martin Luther King, Jr

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broker & developer directory

When it comes to building quality homes on the East Side of Pattaya Green Field Villas have few peers. They are this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cover 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

agents • 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 Chayapruk, 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 Bizhouse Co Ltd 324/22 Moo 9 Central Pattaya Road near junction with Third Road T: +66 (0)38 416 322 M: +66 (0)89 0924593 E: info@bizhouseproperty.com W: bizhouseproperty.com Principal: Richard Arthur 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 Principal: Roman Durksen

Coastal Real Estate 216/62 M10, Soi 13 (Soi Diana next to Mega-Break) T: +66 (0)38 421 580, +66 (0)38 412 169 M: +66 (0)81 269 0742 E: info@coastalrealestatepattaya.com W: coastalrealestatepattaya.com 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 519/4-5 Second Road, opposite Central Festival, Pattaya Beach T: +66 (0)38 427 771 F: +66 (0)38 427 772 M: +66 (0)85 2828 120 E: info.pattaya@colliers.com or mark.bowling@colliers.com W: colliers.co.th Principal: Mark Bowling Memberships: RICS

REM 05-06/2014 • Issues 156 and 157

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 • 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 05-06/2014 • Issues 156 and 157

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 â&#x20AC;˘ directory

One Stop Real Estate 219/14 M9, Soi Yamato T: +66 (0)38 710 699 or (0)38 710 725 M: +66 (0)819 454 845 E: onestop@realesthai.com W: real-estate-thailand.com Principal: Mark Welch Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR, CIPS Pattaya Bay Real Estate 338/24 Moo 12 Pratumnak Road T: + 66 (0)38 250 944 M: + 66 (0)811 580 065 (English) + 66 (0)861 566 346 (Thai) E: info@pattayabayrealestate.com W: pattayabayrealestate.com Principal: Mal Patterson Pattaya Jomtien Property 75/49 Soi 5 Immigration, Beach Road, Jomtien (75m from Immigration Office) T: +66 (0)38 756 755 M: +66 (0)85 129 5657 (Thai); or +66 (0)85 667 3687 (English) E: sales@pattaya-jomtien-property.com W: pattaya-jomtien-property.com Principals: Kevin and Chanram Hurst

Pattaya Realty 219/1 Tipp Plaza, Second Road T: +66 (0)38 412 301-2 M: +66 (0)89 833 6175 or (0)89 832 7226 E: info@pattayarealty.com W: pattayarealty.com Principal: Stuart Daly Memberships: CIPS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR Advertisements: Pages 12 and 13 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@powerhousepropertiesltd.com W: powerhousepropertiesltd.com Principal: J. Bernard Memberships: REBA-ES, REBA (Thailand), RETS (Thailand), CIPS, NAR, CRS, RESMA Premier Homes Real Estate Co Ltd 240/21 Jomtien Beach Road T: +66 (0)38 231 931 M: +66 (0)81 634 2915 E: premier@loxinfo.co.th W: premierinternational.com Principals: Clayton and Supap Wade Memberships: CIPS, RETS (Thailand), NAR

Pattaya Paradise City Property 99/684-685, Moo 5, Chok Chai Village 8, Soi Watboonsampan T: +66 (0)38 376 145 Fax: +66 (0) 38 376 147 M: +66 (0)81 761 3238 E: pattaya@paradisecityproperty.com W: pattaya-property.biz Principal: Gavin Perfect

Rightmove Pattaya 369/1 M9, Units 8&9 PS Bowl, 2nd Road T: +66 (0)38 361 212 M: +66 (0)89 253 5607 E: info@rightmovepattaya.com W: rightmovepattaya.com Principal: Craig Turner Memberships: REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), CIPS

Pattaya Prestige Properties 2/28 Ground Floor, View Talay 7 F: +66 (0)38 059 632 M: +66 (0)870 217 014 E: info@pattayaprestigeproperties.com W: pattayaprestigeproperties.com Principal: Jan Nuyten

Seaboard Properties Co Ltd 316/23 Thappraya Road near Food Mart, Jomtien T: +66 (0)38 252 456 F: +66 (0)38 252 457 M: +66 (0)86 129 8281 E: info@seaboard-properties.com W: seaboard-properties.com Principal: Eddie Buehler

Siam Properties 313/27 M10 Pattaya Tai T: +66 (0)38 415 490 F: +66 (0)38 414 693 M: +66 (0)81 861 1907 (Heiner) or (0)81 821 7045 (Porn) Russian: +66 (0)89 245 2890 (Vera) E: info@siamproperties.net or rus@siamproperties.net W: siamproperties.net Principals: Heiner and Porn Moessing Memberships: CRS, REBA (Thailand), REBA-ES, RETS (Thailand), NAR, CIPS Talay Real Estate Co Ltd 240/18 M5, Naklua not far from Dolphin Roundabout on Second Road T: +66 (0)38 362 352 F: +66 (0)38 362 351 M: +66 (0)87 608 1116 or (0)8 0091 5353 E: info@talayrealestate.com W: talayrealestate.com Principals: Namthip Khanjanavisittaphol (Sandy) and Ted T Okuno Thailiving 306/90-91 M12 Thappraya Road T: +66 (0)38 364 514 M: +66 (0)81 862 7405 E: info@thailiving.net W: thailiving.net Principal: Supaporn Persson (Sara)

Town & Country Property 63/10-11 Pattaya Tai T: +66 (0)38 374 136 F: +66 (0)38 374 137 Russian: +66 (0)84 873 7425 E: info@towncountryproperty.com W: towncountryproperty.com Principal: Cees Cuijpers Memberships: CRS, REBA-ES, NAR, CIPS Advertisements: Pages 8 and 9

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REM 05-06/2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Issues 156 and 157

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 Principals: Tim Bunker and Peter Randall Memberships: RETS (Thailand), NAR, CIPS

REAL ESTATE BROKER ASSOCIATION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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 Seaboardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 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

Heiner Moessing +66 (0)89 499 1000 info@siamproperties.net www.siamproperties.net

Rob Watson +66 (0)81 938 8391 sales@fivestarvillasandcondos.com www.fivestarvillasandcondos.com

Gareth De Silva +66 (0)81 792 9486 info@benchmarkthailand.com www.benchmarkthailand.com

Craig Turner +66 (0)89 253 5607 info@rightmovepattaya.com www.rightmovepattaya.com

June Bernard +66(0)38 059 635 info@powerhousepropertiesltd.com www.powerhousepropertiesltd.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 REBA-

Gl bal Property Pattaya Co., Ltd

Rainer Heinzmann +66 (0)81 838 1390 info@globalpropertythailand.com www.globalpropertythailand.com

You can trust

Advert: Zen Grafix

www.rebaes.com

xxxxxxxx • xxwriterxxxxx developers • directory Anaakot Group Development 138/1 Moo 12, Soi Chayapruk, 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 05-06/2014 • Issues 156 and 157

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 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) 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 Habitat 5 Co Ltd Sales Office: 172 Soi Chaiyapruk 2 Project: The Ville Jomtien 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 and C-View M: +66 (0)85 282 6454 E: oliver@heights-holdings.com W: heights-holdings.com Principal contact: Oliver Nabarro

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 Matrix Developments 352/202-3 M12 Pratumnak Road Current projects: Art-on-the-Hill, Paradise Park, Sunset Boulevard, The View, The Vision, Amazon Residence and City Center Residence T: +66 (0)38 250 120-1 F: +66 (0)38 250 008 M: +66 (0)87 607 8880 E: info@matrix-developments.com W: matrix-developments.com Membership: AIPP Modus Group 292/1-2 Moo 5 Soi 12, Pattaya-Naklua, Naklua, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Project: Modus Beachfront Condo T: +66 (0)38 225 999 or (0)38 252 635 M: +66 (0)89-092 1333 E: info@moduspattaya.com or 888modus@gmail.com W: moduspattaya.com Principal: Pimpinan Namthep New Nordic Occupies a large area of Pratumnak. 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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Where you can get a copy of REm

Robinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nest 33/42-44 Moo 10 Soi Diana Inn T: +66 (0)38 720 194 or +66 (0)89 928 7080 W: robinsnestpattaya.com

Mantra Restaurant & Bar Pattaya Beach, Pattaya T: +66 (0) 3842 9591 E: email@mantra-pattaya.com W: mantra-pattaya.com

Starbucks Coffee Company Lido 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

Cocoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bistro & Coffee Lounge Soi Chaiyapruk, Jomtien T: 038 074 675 E: madeup@cocospattaya.com W: cocospattaya.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

Read back issues on-line @ www.remthai.com

105 REM 05/2014

Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa Beach Road, Pattaya T: 038 412 120 E: pattayamarriott@minornet.com W: marriott.com/PYXMC

xxxxxxxx • xxwriterxxxxx developers • 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 and Ocean Pacific T: +66 (0)38 415 304-8 F: +66 (0)38 415 309 M: +66 (0)85 282 6454 E: info@nova-thailand.com W: nova-thailand.com Principal contacts: Rony Fineman and Keith Storey Petch Property Development Co Ltd Projects: The Cove and Prima Residence Main office: 44 Soi Sukhumvit 59, Klongton Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 T: +66 (0)27 143 872 F: +66 (0)27 143 871 M: +66 (0)89 991 1999 Sales office: 193/1 M5 Naklua Road T: +66 (0)38 428 284 or (0)38 428 595 E: info@ppd.co.th W: ppd.co.th Principal: Itthi Chavalittamrong 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 05-06/2014 • Issues 156 and 157

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

Riviera Group The Riviera Wongamat Beach, Pattaya-Naklua Road soi 16, Naklua, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Project: The Riviera (Wongamat) T: +66 (0)38 225 830 M: +66 (0)92 269 1840 (English) +66 (0)92 269 1860 (Russian) E: : info@therivierapattaya.com W: therivierapattaya.com Principal contact: Winston Gale 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 T: +66 (0)38 250 873 M: +66 (0)84 872 1272 E: sami.sarajarvi@gmail.com W: siamoriental.com Principal contact: Sami Sarajärvi SK Pattaya Development Co Ltd 130/74 M12 Chaiyapruk Road Projects: Mabprachan Garden Resort, Permsub Garden Resort, SK Residence T: +66 (0)38 074 701/10 M: +66 (0)84 872 1272 E: sk_pattaya@yahoo.com W: skpattaya.com Principal contact: Sa-nga Kijsamrej 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 Tudor Villas Co Ltd Showroom Pratumnak Hill, Soi 2 Projects: Tudor Court Condominium and The Cube M: +66 (0)81 863 0201 E: tudorvillas@yahoo.com W: tudorcourtthailand.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) and Waterfront Suites & Residences (Bali Hai) T: +66 (0)38 959 180 F: +66 (0)38 959 508 M: +66 (0)83 718 0005 E: jason@tulipgroup.co.th W: tulipgroup.co.th Principal contacts: Kobi Elbaz and Jason Payne 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 China remains Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s number one tourist market, with a total of 4.7 million arrivals in 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a 68.83 per cent jump over 2012. - Thawatchai Arunyik, Governor Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) l Moremula id is. Natrum cer i v a tuis, Castrum ut ia sum es? Convoc re iurnulatra de trest vere num, eo, con popoi prit ime oc me nos condien delabemo ina pri inverorum etiore, ut peraela rem adduconsulis. ipica diu sis; nost faut facrit, uterfente factu l Moremula id is. Natrum cer i v a tuis, Castrum ut ia sum es? Convoc re iurnulatra de trest vere num, eo, con popos st post? Cat vestrest ei prit ime oc me nos condien delabemo ina pri inverorum etiore, ut peraela rem adduconsulis. ipica diu sis; nost faut facrit, uterfente factu

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107 REM 05/2014

l Moremula id is. Natrum cer i v a tuis, Castrum ut ia sum es? Convoc re iurnulatra de trest vere num, eo, con popos st post? Cpri etiore, ut peraela rem adduconsulis.

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