Samui Phangan Real Estate August September 2011 by Satayu Publishing Co., Ltd.

The Definitive Guide to Samui & Phangan Real Estate

August / September 2011 | ISSN 1686-8838

www.samui-phanganmagazine.com

mandalay beach villas exciting new project from an award-winning developer coming soon.

mandalaysamui.com

E X CE P TION A L SE A V IEW P R OP ERTY FOR S A LE

KOH S A M UI - NO RTH C OA ST

Superb 7 bedroom/ 6 bath freehold residence enjoying spectacular sea views to Koh Pha Ngan. Arranged as two self contained villas each with their own lounge and western style kitchen facilities. Study. Car parking for 4 cars. Beautiful gardens extending to 1.6 rai ( 2500 sqm ) with Nor Sor 3 Gor land title. Large swimming pool and separate children’s pool. Minutes from pristine beach and championship golf course. Total built area of villas 600 sqm plus additional 220 sqm swimming pool complex. Suitable for multiple uses as residence and investment/ rental property. Wi-Fi enabled. FREEHOLD PRICE: 34.5 million Baht - Negotiable Email Contact : Chris1013@hotmail.com ( English ), Supatsara99@hotmail.com ( Thai ) Telephone : 089-785-5084 or 089-233-7363 FOR FURTHER DETAILS AND VIEWING

Island Update

MAKING PUBLIC PROGRESS In the last two months, the Samui Municipality has been pushing forward on a number of important new infrastructure and community projects around the island. With significant changes afoot in both national and regional government offices, the Mayor’s office on Samui has maintained a practical and realistic approach to solving the main problems facing the island this year. Working within the existing public budget while they wait for special funds from the central government in Bangkok, local officials have focused on key issues and areas such as introducing a more sustainable water management and drainage system, as well as improving road access and providing community facilities while repairing the damage done by the floods earlier this year.

Chaweng Lake Project When the flooding in March caused Chaweng Lake to overflow, the government looked at ways to create a more affective storm drain in the area. Work started immediately, with special channels created to direct water down the main canal behind Chaweng when it reaches a certain level, allowing it to flow out into the ocean. In addition to this work, the municipality also began repairing the access road at the northern end of the lake, adding better drainage and rebuilding the road surface. “The project is progressing well and at a significant pace,” said Khun Sinn, Advisor to the Mayor’s Office. “We are also widening the road around the lake itself, as this is the main drop off area for most of the island’s 8

mini buses, which often results in congestion. In addition, we are building better, safer walkways for pedestrians, planting trees and adding more effective lighting to the area to create a functional and attractive recreational space for locals and visitors to use. This is a major project for the island with multiple benefits and we plan to finish the work as fast as possible.”

Waste and Water Other ongoing initiatives on the island include managing waste disposal and looking at new ways to store water. Sealed and secured landfill sites have been added close to the island’s damaged incinerator and some separation of waste is now taking place, with local communities also involved in the process. Organic materials are being removed at the site and used for composting, the results distributed via the municipality for use in planting and agricultural use. The incinerator itself is unfortunately still in urgent need of repair, but this requires expert knowledge and engineering capabilities, which has to be sought off the island. In terms of water catchment, recent studies into the creation of a new mountain dam and reservoir revealed that the work would simply prove too costly without massive investment from central government. As an alternative, the municipality is looking into re-instituting and upgrading the traditional dam and irrigation systems once used by farmers growing rice crops on the island. By re-establishing and extending the channels and dams once used, they will be able to effectively store water in the abandoned rice fields in the Namuang area. In addition, to prevent excessive run off from the hills (and the landslides seen during periods of heavy rain), the local government also plans to monitor and control illegal deforestation and the building of private roads more closely in order to prevent the unnecessary clearing of land that causes widespread erosion.

14 July 2011 19 July 2011

Education for the future

In a bold expression of their commitment to the future of Samui, the local government has now also taken responsibility for entry level education in the island’s local schools. As a “council that cares”, the Mayor’s office is keen to create a more open and co-operative environment for the parents, teachers and school pupils. “With greater direct involvement, both financially and in terms of assistance and support”, said Khun Sinn, “we hope to have a positive influence on the next generation of Samui citizens, inspiring greater pride in the island and also creating awareness of its natural resources and the need to protect them.” Thailand may have a new national government, which means the roles of the country’s various departments and offices are far from stable, but the current Samui Municipality remains committed to improving the island’s infrastructure. Their aim remains to maximise Samui’s potential as a tourist, residential and commercial destination, while protecting the island’s environment and making the most of its valuable resources. 9

Legal Update

Building wnership

ccording to Thai law, ownership of a land plot and ownership of a house situated on such a land plot can be separated under certain conditions. This enables foreigners to own the house on land which they lease.

If the house ownership is transferred separately from the land ownership, 30-days public notice is required before the transfer of house ownership can be registered. During this notice period, objections against the house ownership transfer can be filed. If land and house are sold jointly, no public notice is required. There are no title deeds for buildings and therefore evidence of ownership is not as clearly documented. Generally speaking, there is an assumption that the land owner is also the owner of a house that is situated on such land. Such assumption may however be disproved in particular by (1) a superficies (2) building permit and/or (3) an official house sale and purchase agreement. In this article, we will look further into the various options and also into the significance of the construction agreement and the so-called house registration book.

• SUPERFICIES

The Thai CCC sets forth a clear procedure of separating land and house ownership through registering a “superficies” (Sect. 1410-1416 CCC), which creates the right to own a house on a land plot that one does not own. The superficies is registered on the title deed, which evidences the ownership of the respective house and provides notice to third parties.

• BUILDING PERMIT

According to the rulings of some Thai courts and administrative practices, house ownership can also be established merely pursuant to Section 146 sentence 2 CCC which distinguishes and separates the land from a house built thereon, where the house is built “in the exercise of a right over [the land owner’s] land” and without a superficies. Thai courts consider leasehold to be a “right to another person’s land” and current administrative practice in Thailand takes the same position. However, current administrative practice may also require additional documentation that it deems to be evidence of house ownership. For the first owner of a house, i.e. the builder, this is the building permit for the house. Administrative practice considers the permit relevant indicia of house ownership

(for the first owner of the house only) purportedly because the land owner must consent in writing to the issuance of the permit and because the permit form calls the grantee the “owner” of the house to be built.

• OFFICIAL HOUSE SALE AGREEMENT

In the case where the building is purchased from a property developer, usually together with an interest in the land, the developer will have applied for the building permit. Then, the documentation of the house purchase will be relevant, in particular theofficial “House Sale Agreement”. The official agreements are issued by and are part of the file of the land office. And, thereby, ownership of the house in the name of the owner from the second owner on is officially registered at the relevant land office. A duplicate of the latest agreement is given to a new owner of the house. It should be noted that, as opposed to the building permit, the official house sale and purchase agreement serves as strong evidence for house ownership that is not easy to challenge.

• CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT

In combination with the aforementioned documentation, a construction agreement related to the house may also be brought forward as indicia for house ownership.

• HOUSE REGISTRATION BOOK

Despite a common misconception, the house registration book (in Thai “Tabien Baan” or “Blue Book”) does not serve as evidence for house ownership in any way. The house registration book states the address of the house and the persons who live in it. This will often be the owner, but this does not necessarily have to be the case. The house registration book is however an important document for any dealings related to utilities, etc. and it generally serves as certificate of residence. There are two types of House Registration book, the blue and the yellow book. The blue book is issued for Thai nationals or foreigners with permanent residence status, the yellow book for foreign nationals. In both cases please note that only individuals, not companies, can be stated. As a summary, we would like to point out that a review of the house ownership situation should be an important part of legal due diligence prior to acquisition of property in Thailand. There are means to clearly document the house ownership in the name of the purchaser, and these should not be overlooked. By Fabian Doppler (DFDL Legal and Tax Advisers) Tel. +66 (0) 77 484 510 samui@dfdlmekong.com, www. dfdlmekong.com

Legal Update

“SECOND HAND” PROPERTY Purchasing a

in Koh Samui or Koh Phangnan

here are a significant number of beautifully designed, robustly constructed, superbly located, and well managed residential projects and stand alone properties located on Koh Samui and Koh Phangnan which, although privately owned, are in high demand by prospective real estate investors with an astute eye for a desirable holiday home. Such properties can change hands very quickly when they are listed for sale by their current owners and real estate agents with a good local knowledge of such properties are keen to list them when they come onto the market. A further advantage to acquiring a second hand property is that a re-sale transaction can be less risky than “offplan” transactions because the risk of the property not being built is excluded, this can be a significant advantage in uncertain economic times. Prospective investors should be aware that they buy at their own risk and should therefore undertake a detailed and independent investigation into all aspects of a property prior to paying any portion of the purchase price to the seller. The scope of such investigations will depend upon the precise nature of the property but all investigations should include: - A title investigation to establish that the Seller is the legal owner of the property and that the title to the property has been legally issued in accordance with the laws of Thailand and has full legal rights of access. - An investigation to establish whether or not the property has been built in accordance with local building and environmental regulations. - A structural survey to ensure the structural integrity of the property and to ascertain whether or not any major repairs are required. - Physical testing of the facilities at the property such as the swimming pool pump and filter and air conditioning units to ensure that they are in full working order. Any defects, inconsistencies or concerns which are revealed by such investigations should be put to the seller in writing and the seller should provide further written information or documentation to satisfy the concerns of the prospective investor. Where appropriate, this should be independently verified. It may be appropriate in certain circumstances for the seller to provide contractual assurances with regards to matters or consider a reduction in the purchase price of the property to reflect corrective actions to be undertaken by the purchaser after acquiring the property. 12

A prospective investor may find that the seller does not own the property in their own name but through the ownership of shares in a limited company which owns the property. Such transactions will often involve the sale of the shares in the company to the investor rather than the sale of the property itself. In share transactions, the investor should also carry out detailed investigations into the company to ensure (amongst other matters) that the company is correctly formed and validly exists, has paid its taxes, has no outstanding liabilities and is the legal owner of the interest in property. In circumstances which involve the sale of shares in a limited Thai company by a foreign investor, enquiries must be undertaken to ensure that the company will comply with Thai laws once the foreign investor has acquired his/her shares. Foreign investors must be aware that Thai law prohibits the control of freehold land by foreign individuals and foreign companies and restricts the number of shares in a limited Thai Company which can be legally owned by foreign investors. The seller and buyer should negotiate a detailed sale and purchase agreement with regards to the sale of the property, or Share Transfer Agreement if the transaction relates to the sale of shares, setting out the respective obligations of the parties. The sale and purchase agreement should set out clearly the main terms of the agreement between the seller and investor including the purchase price, payment terms, completion date and the consequences of a breach of the agreement by either party. Any specific terms and conditions agreed verbally between the seller and investor, should be clearly set out in the sale and purchase agreement with clear consequences for failure to comply with the obligations. There will be a number of transfer and registration fees and taxes to be paid upon the legal transfer of the property to the buyer. The sale and purchase agreement should set out in detail who shall be responsible for the payment such fees and taxes as such fees and taxes can represent a significant cost to factor into the transaction. In transactions which involve the sale of property in managed developments, the terms of the agreement between the developer and the original buyer may require the seller, investor and developer to enter into a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Novationâ&#x20AC;? agreement under the terms of which the buyer agrees to abide by all of the agreements signed by the original buyer. In such transactions, the buyer should ensure that they are fully aware of the terms and conditions of the original sales contracts, management agreement, rules and regulations and in certain circumstances the rental agreement as they will be obliged to abide by the terms of these agreements notwithstanding the fact that they were not an original party to the original agreements. This article was written by Christian Glanville, Partner of Limcharoen Hughes & Glanville (Samui) for further information, please contact our Koh Samui offices on 07 724-6185 or e-mail Christian@Limcharoen.com. Other offices located in Bangkok, Phuket, Ho Chi Minh City, Bali and coming soon, Hong Kong. 13

BANG PO – 4 BR

HG063

Price : 17,500,000 THB This delightfully spacious villa is centrally located in the quiet hamlet of Ban Tai, just 250 meters from the beautiful beach and various resorts. Four air-conditioned bedrooms with three and a half bathrooms, master with Jacuzzi bathtub. 11m x 5m swimming pool with feature waterfall wall. Tropical gardens surround this beautiful villa. Fully fitted and furnished to the highest standards and includes 6mb wifi internet and separate satellite TV systems in all bedrooms, CCTV security system installed.

BAAN DALAH

HB 027

Price : 39,000,000 THB

Baan Dalah is a modern property situated on the beachfront in Bang Rak; on the northeast coast of Koh Samui. Consisting of three spacious bedrooms in a walled environment, this villa has the benefit of privacy and stunning views to neighboring Koh Phan Ngan. It’s also conveniently positioned to enjoy the local restaurants and bars. Samui’s busiest resort area of Chaweng Beach is only 10 minutes away.

MAE NAM - 4 BR

HB045

Price: 36,500,000 THB

THE HEADLAND VILLA

HB 047

Price: 29,250,000 THB

This is a truly exceptional villa with an interesting layout which is enhanced by an exquisite collection of furniture and artwork. Having entered this private and exclusive luxury estate you’ll be immediately aware of the overall quality, beauty and the care taken to keep these homes in pristine condition.

As part of Samui’s most exclusive, prestigious and private estate of just six properties this villa has an instant appeal. From the moment you arrive at the Headland estate you will be struck by the peace and nature of the location. A tree-lined stone pathway leads to the villa and also directly onto an absolutely idyllic white-sandy beach. From the villa, you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the Five Islands, the Ang Thong National Marine Park and over to the mainland.

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: + 66 [0] 77 430 326

www.epsamui.com

Email: sales@epsamui.com

BANG RAK - 4 BR

HV088

Price: 20,000,000 THB

HB057

Price: 18,000,000 THB

The Villa locate in Big Buddha area. This villa with panoramic views over the tranquil azure waters of the Gulf of Thailand is built on three levels. The main living area located on the first floor has sliding glass walls on the front and back, which allow the sea breeze to flow through the house while at the same time capture the breathtaking sea views on the 10 x 5 m infinity pool and pool deck. Rooftop area set upÂ as BBQ deck with large sitting sofa set for party time.

BANG PO - 2 BR

HG062

Price: 11,000,000 THB

This beautifully presented villa benefits from its own private pool and sun deck (garden is south facing for sun worshipers). High walls and gated entrance offering you total peace and quiet. Cable TV, 6Mbs broadband wifi connection. Large flat screen TV with surround sound and DVD player in the lounge with smaller TVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with DVD players in the bedrooms. Fully fitted western style kitchen, Large lounge with high vaulted wooden ceiling with feature beams, luxury bathrooms with rain head showers (bath tub in master en-suite). Both bedrooms benefit from air-conditioning and ceiling fans.

HG061

Price: 15,000,000 THB

The Emerald Beach Villas is a stylishly designed estate with houses benefiting from a blend of contemporary architecture with traditional Thai influences creating attractive and eye-catching beachfront properties. The beach at Laem Noi is secluded but only meters away from the main road that offer the views over to the Ang Thong Marine Park.

CHOENG MON - 3 BR

BOPHUT - 5 BR

HG059

Price: 7,400,000 THB

The villas are tastefully designed and built to blend with the tropical environment around them that Koh Samui is popular for. The villas are ideal for family and also perfect for whom that is looking to have a small business on the Paradise Island.

CONDO - CHOENG MON Price: 6,270,000 THB

Beautiful 3 bedroom villa set on a private estate with shared swimming pool. Single level house in a superb location within 10 minutes of joining all the amenities. Peaceful and quiet surrounding. The garden offers a Large decked area with a snooker table.

Designed to fit seamlessly into the landscape, The Park Samui provides 24 well-designed living units, two spacious swimming pools, lobby, reception, exercise room, lush tropical gardens and water features in view from every window, terrace and balcony of each unit.

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: + 66 [0] 77 430 326

www.epsamui.com

Email: sales@epsamui.com

TALING GNAM - 3.5 rai

B155

Price: 60,000,000 THB

V172

Price: 52,000,000 THB

A Rare opportunity to acquire on of the very few remaining plots of smallish beach front land available on Koh Samui. The government/Tesebaan build permits are already in place for 2 huge beach front mansions, electric, water and concrete road is also already installed

BAAN TALAY - 1.25 rai

PHANG KA - 6.5 RAI

B149

Price: 19,000,000 THB

A rare opportunity-a stunning plot of beach front land with wide frontage. This plot of beachland is located in Baan Talay area in the South West of the Island with a beautiful calm beach. The plot has full infrastructure in place of concrete road, electricity at corner of the plot. this plot is an ideal for private luxury villa or anyone who are looking for future investment.

CHAWENG NOI - 6.5 RAI

V151

Price: 35,750,000 THB

Ocean view land plot in Phangka, on the gently slop hill, fantastic 180 degree sea view of Phangka bay and Thong Tanote beach which has got the most beautiful sunset view on Koh Samui. Just 100 meters to the beach, the land face to Koh Taen, Koh Mud sum and The Five Islands.

BOPHUT - 1.3 RAI V166 Price: 5,000,000 THB Spectacular 180 degree seaviews from high up on Bophut Hill. This 1.3 rai (2,080 sqm) property offers an easy building site with fully infrastructure to the boundary.

A rare opportunity- enjoy the best of both worlds that are sea view and beachfront land. It comes with concrete roads enbling access to the land. This plot size of 6.50 rai is located in an exclusive part of the island in Chaweng Noi area (North East of Samui island). It has fantastic views with a beautiful calm beach so that

BOPHUT - 1,200 sqm.

V169

Price: 4,000,000 THB

The land situated in a very good spot, prime location but still remain privacy. Decent land size to build a dream holiday home, the upper floor of the house will get the partial sea view of the famous Bophut beach. Fully infrastructure, very reasonable price.

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: + 66 [0] 77 430 326

www.epsamui.com

Email: sales@epsamui.com

PHANG KA - 6.5 RAI Location Land Size Price Ownership

V172

: Phang Ka : 6.5 rai : 52,000,000 THB : Freehold

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: + 66 [0] 77 430 326

www.epsamui.com

Email: sales@epsamui.com

BANG PO - 4 BR Location Land size No. Bedrooms Price Ownership

: Baan Tai, Bang Po : 940 sqm. :4 : 17,500,000 THB : Freehold

This delightfully spacious villa is centrally located in the quiet hamlet of Ban Tai, just 250 meters from the beautiful beach and various resorts. Four air-conditioned bedrooms with three and a half bathrooms, master with Jacuzzi bathtub. 11m x 5m swimming pool with feature waterfall wall. Tropical gardens surround this beautiful villa. Fully fitted and furnished to the highest standards and includes 6mb wifi internet and separate satellite TV systems in all bedrooms, CCTV security system installed.

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: + 66 [0] 77 430 326

www.epsamui.com

Email: sales@epsamui.com

Living on Koh Samui & Koh Phangan 36 Koh Samui Map 37 Living on Koh Samui 40 Personal Profile: Khun Pisit Promlakan-Ecomate 126 Koh Phangan Map 127 Living on Koh Phangan Property

108

8 Island Update 10 Legal Update: Building Ownership 12 Legal Update: Purchasing a Second Hand Property 52 Developer Profile: Naresh Developments 56 Main Feature: Face of Island Life 68 Building a Home 70 Building Regulation 72 Villas Letting 71 Villas Letting Agents 84 Tax Update Legal Tips 86 Land Title Deeds 87 Chanote Land Title 88 Tips for starting a new business: English 90 Tips for starting a new business: Chinese 92 Tips for starting a new business: German 94 Tips for starting a new business: Russain 96 Tips for starting a new business: French 98 Visa and Work Permits

House & Home Tips 38 Shopping 108 Architectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Talk: Playing Size to Your Advantage 110 Interior Tips: Too Much Stuff in Your Home? 112 Garden Guide: The Magic of Water 114 Home Maintenance: Beetles Are a Bore Island Life 116 Smart Samui: EZ Dock (Thailand) 130 Expo: Samui Adventure Race 134 Green File: Biogasification 136 Island Life Home Directory 138 Home Directory Koh Samui Developers and Estate Agents 2 Beach Republic Real Estate 4 Minigolf Samui 5 Mandalay Beach Villas 6 Sea View Properties 7 Laan Dara Samui 14 Samui Villas and Homes 26 Horizon Homes 33 Blue Building 34 Ocean 11 Beach Front Residences 35 Phathong Residences 42 Banyan Villas

44 Palm Group Asia 50 Naresh Developments 60 The Emerald Tongson 62 Advance Inter Development 64 Palm Greek Residence 66 Bang Por Villa 124 The Phufar Residence 143 Beach Land for sale 144 Mangrove Villa 145 The Park Samui: Tropiculture 146 Siam Immo Company Legal & Accounting Services 82 IPM Samui 99 DFDL Mekong Legal & Tax Advisers 100 Limcharoen Hughes & Glanville Finance Services 49 GFS Australasia Architect & 3D 74 SIL Architects Audio Visual Interior Design 75 Creative System Projects 78 AV Installation System

Properties Services 32 Infinity Home Management 46 Managing Samui 75 Creative System Projects 76 Ecomate 77 EcoPest Samui 80 European Rain Guttering 105 Nite Stone 142 Jman Ltek - LED Lighting 148 EZ Dock (Thailand) Interior Design 83 I.P.M. Samui 102 Surat Baansuy 124 Eternal Flame Kitchen & Hardware 83 I.P.M. Samui 104 Ikon Kitchen Sport Engineering 79/81 Seara Sports Swimming Pools 120 TSP Swimming Pools 122 Desjoyaux Pools 123 CP Pools

Garden & Landscape 61 Botanical Designs Landscaping Security 75 Creative System Projects 101 B-Smart Systems Construction & Project Management 19 RS Built 33 Blue Building 46 Palm Construction 150 Samui Villas & Homes Leisure Samui 34 Ocean 11 Beach Front Restaurant 107 100 Degrees East Dive Team 125 Max Murphy’s 140 BBC Café 142 LomPrayah Hight Speed Catamaran

Management & Editorial

Naresh www.naresh.co.th

Distributed at Samui Airport & Suwannaphume Airport Courtesy

Published By: Satayu Publishing Co.,Ltd. จัดทำ�นิตยสารโดย Managing Director: Yuwares (Yu) กรรมการผู้จัดการ (66) 08 9772 1589 yu@satayu.com Sales & Marketing: Jiratchaya Nasompak(Fai) ฝ่ายขายและการตลาด จิรัชยา นาสมภักดิ์ (ฝ้าย) (66) 08 5794 7696 sales@satayu.com Associate Editor: Julz K. Writer: Julz K. Legal Advisor: Surin Puangpakdee ที่ปรึกษาด้านกฎหมาย from NSP & Laws Firm Publication Design: Satayu Publishing Co.,Ltd. Graphic Design: Jeadsada Yeanyong Accounting: Yuwares (Yu) ฝ่ายบัญชี (66) 08 9772 1589 Distribution: Satayu Publishing Co.,Ltd. จำ�หน่ายและวางนิตยสาร Somsak Nasompak Publisher License: ISSN 1686-8838 เลขมาตรฐานสากลประจำ�นิตยสาร ใบอนุญาตจดแจ้งการพิมพ์ สศก ๑๔ นศ/๒/๒๕๕๓ Publisher Office: Satayu Publishing Co.,Ltd. สำ�นักงาน 34/9 Moo 4, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320 Thailand. Tel/Fax (66) 077 484 616 Mobile: (66) 08 9772 1589 Homepages: www.samui-phanganmagazine.com Printing & Colour separation: Amarin Printing and Publishing Co.,Ltd สถานที่จัดพิมพ์ 65/101-103 Chaiyaphruk Rd., Taling Chan, Bangkok Thailand 10170 Tel. 66 (0) 2422 9000 Disclaimer: All the information, discussions and opinions contained herein are not to be a comprehensive study nor to provide advice, legal or otherwise and should not under any circumstances be used as a substitute for specific advice, legal or otherwise, in respect of individual situation and circumstances.

Welcome to the the latest issue of Samui Phangan Real Estate Magazine. With the European holiday season once again bringing large numbers of visitors to Samui and Koh Phangan, the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s businesses have been stepping up their operations to match the high expectations of visitors that arrive on the islands from all corners of the globe. Plush residential projects, super lux hotels, high-end private villas and indulgent spa and wellness centres are all now all signature features on Koh Samui and also becoming increasingly prevalent on Koh Phangan. At the same time, new attractions, events and activities attract an ever more diverse range of visitors, establishing the islands as must-visit destinations. In this issue we begin a series of articles highlighting Samuiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many faces. We also look at some of the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new condominium projects, developed by Naresh and attracting plenty of interest. In our Smart Samui section we focus on the latest in floating dock designs, while the the Expo feature invite fitness lover to take part of spectate at the Koh Samui Adventure Race. All this plus our regular columns on legal issues, interior design and environmentally friendly living. Enjoy the read!

กลับมาพบกันอีกครั้งนะคะ สำ�หรับนิตยสารสมุย-พะงันฉบับเดือนสิงหาคม-กันยายน 2554 ค่ะ เทศกาลวันหยุดยาวของยุโรปปีนี้ เป็นอีกปีหนึ่งที่มีนักท่องเที่ยวจำ�นวนมากจากทวีปยุโรป เดิน ทางเข้ามาท่องเที่ยวยังเกาะสมุยและเกาะพะงัน ภาคธุรกิจหลายๆหน่วยงาน ต่างพากันปรับปรุง มาตรฐานของการบริการให้สูงขึ้นตามความคาดหวังของนักท่องเที่ยว ที่เดินทางมาจากทั่วทุกมุมโลก โครงการที่อยู่อาศัยระดับหรู ไม่ว่าจะเป็นโรงแรมหรูระดับ Super lux วิลล่าส่วนตัวระดับ high - end สปาผ่อนคลายและศูนย์สุขภาพ ต่างทะลักเข้ามาเซ็นต์สัญญาสร้างกันบนเกาะสมุย แล้วยังขยับขยาย กระจายไปถึงเกาะพะงัน ในขณะเดียวกัน สถานที่ท่องเที่ยวที่น่าสนใจแห่งใหม่ๆ งานเปิดตัวต่างๆ รวมถึงกิจกรรมมากมายบนเกาะ ที่ได้ดึงดูดความสนใจจากนักท่องเที่ยวที่เข้ามายังเกาะของเราให้มี ความหลากหลายมากขึ้น เกาะยิ่งทำ�ให้เกาะแห่งนี้ กลายเป็นสถานที่ที่ต้องมาเยือนให้ได้สักครั้งใน ชีวิต นิตยสารสมุย-พะงันฉบับนี้ เรามีคอลัมน์ต่างๆที่นำ�เสนอเรื่องราวของเกาะสมุยในหลากหลายแง่มุม เริ่มจากโครงการคอนโดมิเนียมแห่งใหม่ที่พัฒนาโดย Naresh ซึ่งกำ�ลังได้รับความสนใจเป็นอย่าง มาก คอลัมน์Smart Samui ฉบับนี้เราจะนำ�เสนอเรื่องการออกแบบทุ่นลอยนำ�้ ส่วนคอลัมน์ Expo ก็ คงจะเป็นที่ถูกอกถูกใจคนที่คลั่งไคล้การออกกำ�ลังกายเป็นพิเศษ เพราะเราจะพาท่านไปรู้จักกับ Koh Samui Adventure Race กันค่ะ และทั้งหมดนี้คือสิ่งที่คุณผู้อ่านทุกท่านจะได้รับจากนิตยสารสมุย-พะงันฉบับนี้ รวมทั้งคอลัมน์ประจำ� ของเราเกี่ยวกับปัญหาด้านกฎหมาย การออกแบบตกแต่งภายใน และรูปแบบการใช้ชีวิตที่เป็นมิตร กับสิ่งแวดล้อม

บรรณาธิการ

Restaurant & Residence

24 Moo 4, Bophut, Bangrak Beach, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Thailand Restaurant Tel +66 77 245 134 Residence Tel/Fax +66 77 961 784 info@o11s.com www.o11s.com

Phathong Residence

Houses for Rent & Sale Secure, private complex(near Samui airport), large communal,

swimming pool, gym, sauna, 1-4 bedroom houses, several brand new, fully furnished, some with sea view. * Rent starts from 9,000.- per month * Sale starts from 4 Million THB (House&Land).

* References available from existing clients.

All direct from owner- smooth transaction guaranteed. Contact: Khun Jeed Mobile + 66(0) 89 813 5715 Phathong Residence 23/3 moo 4, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320. Thailand

info@samuitropicalland.com www. samuitropicalland.com

Koh Samui Map

Living on

Samui

Koh Samui’s enduring appeal as one of the world’s top holiday destinations has inspired many people to relocate to the island, either choosing to make it their permanent home or spending extended amounts of time living what those in less blessed locations would understandably consider an idyllic lifestyle. In the last ten years, the island has developed into a full service destination and the range of facilities, amenities and services has therefore expanded considerably, making Samui one of very few places in the world where you can literally choose your preferences, both in terms of the way you pass your days and nights and also the amount of money you want to spend. Although the island’s tourist and residential worlds often collide, they can also be very distinctive. But in terms of choice, both groups benefit from the island’s incredibly diverse and eclectic offerings, whether in terms of accommodation, retail, dining, entertainment, health or adventure. As a long term resident on Samui, if you stop to consider the sheer extent of comfort and convenience on offer around the island today it’s sometimes difficult to remember that you are living on a small island in the Gulf of Thailand. As soon as you leave the beach you are spoilt for choice - shopping malls such as Tesco Lotus and Big C stock all the daily necessities and more, specialist outlets like Tops Supermarket and Villa in Lamai offer indulgent imported goods, while 7Elevens, Family Mart outlets and local shops make impulse buying a an easy option, even at 4 in the morning. A selection of fresh food markets also cater to an ever growing Thai community with everything from rice by the kilo to fresh Tiger Prawns sold by the kilo at what are very reasonable prices when compared to the deli counters of most western supermarkets. For those who prefer to dine out, Samui has developed a deserved reputation a s gourmet paradise with an enviable choice of restaurants, their menus often created by chef’s of international repute and wine lists that rival those in some of the world’s top city bistros. Excellent Thai food is also readily enjoyed, either roadside at one of the island’s many affordable local eateries or in more opulent surroundings accompanied by five star service and stylised, cultural designs and entertainment. The Samui party scene has also developed in leaps and bounds in the last few years, sophisticated Beach Clubs like Beach republic and Nikki Beach serve top class food and beverage choices in chic poolside surroundings. They also host regular parties with international DJs and performers. Western style pubs and nightclubs line the popular tourist strips, with sports bars like The Islander and Bondi in Chaweng showing live international sporting events. Those in search of a more healthy, green lifestyle on Samui can easily avoid the tourist bustle. The quiet beaches on the island’s south coast still feel relatively untouched by development and many small residential communities have emerged in places like Baan taling Ngam and Lip Noi, where the pace of life is slow and the tropical landscape still untroubled by crowds and commerce. Spas and wellness centres offer a wide range of treatments and therapies to rejuvenate tired souls, while yoga, meditation and other more spiritually inspired activities can be studied and practiced at various centres around the island. Families are increasingly well catered for on Samui and the island now boasts its very own International School (ISS), as well as several other learning institutions catering to to both Thai and expatriate students. The island’s clubs and organisations often organise family friendly gatherings, regular Walking Streets offer festival style outings and there are also several restaurants that cater for children’s parties. With so much on offer to residents, Samui has now become as much a place to live as it is a place to visit. It is now a multi-faceted residential island with an enviable range of services and facilities to choose from, all of which combine to offer permanent and long stay ‘Samuians” one of the most appealing and diverse tropical lifestyle experiences on the planet. 37

Shopping

2 1

1,8 & 7 Candle Holder Tel: Eternal Flame 089 772 1589 2 Ceiling Lamp Tel: Nakalina 083 592 1006 3 Sharkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fin outdoor shower screen Tel: Nakalina 083 592 1006 4 Post Lamp Tel: Nakalina 083 592 1006 5 BEO movable sound system Tel: Aviava 02 685 3676 6 Candle DĂŠcor Tel: Eternal Flame 089 772 1589

6 7

If you have any new products to display in our magazine please contact: 089 772 1589 or sales@satayu.com

Personal Profile

A Friend to the Environment Most people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t realise how easy it is to implement habits and routines that will help the environment. Khun Pisit Promlakan built a business out of it. Khun Pisit used to work as Branch Manager for an international kitchen equipment Company. As part of his job he had to travel around the Koh Samui and also around Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, as well as along the east coast of the Thai Gulf. â&#x20AC;&#x153;On my journeys I found that many of natural the resources and scenery was being destroyed by local people

and investors,” he saud. “This saddened me so I decided to resign resign from my job and focus on my own company based on a philosophy of selling only Eco- Friendly and Energy Saving Products to reduce the stress on Thailand’s natural resources.

The result was “Ecomate” - ecology friendly and economic products. Beyond his green business practice, Ecomate’s founder follows the latest alternative energy news, environmental articles, and offers his clients energy saving tips. He believes people are accepting on alternative energy ideas because it is now being looked at as a means of fueling the economy. With not enough oil in this world to continue at current levels of consumption, eventually the supply will run out and the world’s economy with it. Ecomate is not alone in its pursuit of alternative energy and saving concepts. Solar energy is becoming increasingly common as an power source and ethanol is starting to creep into the gas tanks of cars in many parts of the world. Wind energy farms are also starting to become a more familiar sight in the countryside, which means people are waking up to the fact that our planet is slowly being destroyed by pollution and lack of responsibility. “Our vision is to help reduce the amount of energy we obtain from natural resources,” said Khun Pisit,” and help reduce global warming to make our world the heavenly place we use to live on. The concept we promote is “Ecomate Your Ecoways”

You can save the environment Ecomate believes that by making your concern for the environment a priority, you will be motivated to take the necessary steps to leave a smaller ecological footprint. Making a more energy efficient home is the first step and is easily achieved through techniques such as recycling your waste water (also known as grey water) and using it for gardening, turning off and unplugging your appliances when they are not in use, making your own fertilizer with a compost pile, setting your refrigerator temperature at 36 to 38 degrees and your freezer at 0 to 5 degrees, installing low flow shower heads and using safe cleaning solutions to clean your house. By utilizing just some of the tips above, you can make a huge impact on the environment. Companies like Ecomate have the passion, knowledge and resources to make a positive impact on the environment, either in your home, at work or in the hospitality sector. For more information about ecology friendly please contact: Khun Pisit, Ecomate Company Limited 083-6378700 Email: info@ecomate.co.th www.ecomate.co.th

ใช้ชีวิต..สะดวกสบาย

อย า งเป็ น ตั ว คุ ณ ่ Live as comfortable as you need.

Sale Office: Moo 1 Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani Tel: +66 (0) 77 426 944 E-mail: sale@naresh.co.th www.naresh.co.th

Naresh Lifestyle Condominium Chaweng มอบความสะดวกสบายที่เหนือกว่าให้กับคุณบนทำ�เลที่ดีที่สุดบนเกาะสมุยใกล้ห้างสรรพ สินค้าและ สนามบิน พร้อมการออกแบบที่ให้คุณได้ใกล้ชิดธรรมชาติยิ่งขึ้นด้วยพื้นที่สีเขียว รอบตัวอาคารพร้อมสิ่งอำ�นวยความสะดวกครบครัน เพื่อให้ที่นี่เป็นบ้าน ที่สอดคล้องกับ ชีวิตของคุณอย่างแท้จริง Naresh Lifestyle Condominium offers you elegant living with superior convenience at the best location on Samui Island. Our prime location allows you to enjoy all the conveniences and attractions of Samui Island. Specifically designed architecture which incorporates nature around the building andcentered around a cool blue modern swimming pool. Creative space use sculpts environments that allow your senses to experience nature as well as all the comforts of a modern home.

Naresh lifestyle condominium truly an oasis of relaxation!

Developer Profile

Naresh is a top quality developer with a successful portfolio of projects on Koh Samui and Phuket. Established in 2003, the company is responsible for a range of appealing developments that includes luxury apartments and condominiums, a hotel and a contemporary coffee shop.

The Managing Director of Naresh, Mr. Somsak Srikuruwan, originally ran a successful businesses as a contractor for many well known projects in Thailand. Between 2007 and 2009, seeing an increase in demand for medium sized condominiums on Koh Samui, he expanded into residential development with the launch of ‘Arisara Place’, a 50 unit property, and later in the same year, Naresh embarked on a second project called ‘Baan Arisara’, also with 50 units. Both of these developments offer an attractive lifestyle investment on Samui, surrounded by tropical beauty just minutes from the azure waters of the Gulf of Thailand. The word ‘Arisara’ actually means ‘Number One’ or ‘Being the First’ and it is definitely the most appropriate way to describe both of these condominium projects in terms of their quality and comfort. Mr.Somsak’s contract experience shines through in the fine details such as the glazed windows and aluminum frame doors fitted for each location, the wood and tile floor and wall finishings and the carefully tiled roofs, complete with special insulation and water proof membranes. In its latest project, Naresh Lifestyle Chaweng, the company has chosen to build another luxury condominium boasting an attractive living environment with 104 units offering mountain and swimming pool view and the ultimate in comfort and convenience, thanks in part to its superb location in Samui’s most popular tourist area, Chaweng.

Naresh Lifestyle Condominium offers residents elegant living in one of the the best locations the Island has to offer, close to the main dining, shopping and entertainment choices yet specifically designed to maintain a tropical feel with architecture that incorporates the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural appeal, centered around a cool contemporary blue swimming pool. Creative spaces are sculpted around the natural island environment, allowing for a combination of comfort, peace, convenience and functionality. In addition to the various residential options on Samui, Naresh also has a coffee shop, where you can sit peacefully, read and relax, or meet for a social appointment or business meeting. Over on Phuket, the company has also developed 173 units in a project named â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Art @ Patongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. All the Naresh projects are designed to facilitate the ultimate island lifestyle. Whether residents seek simplicity, enjoy shopping and nightlife or are looking for somewhere that is close to their business, the convenience and style on offer at Naresh projects guarantees a standard of living way higher than most people would expect back in their country or city of origin. Naresh hotline: +66 (0)77 426 944 www.naresh.co.th

Main Feature

Faces of Island Life

As Koh Samui and Koh Phangan develop and diversify, visitors and residents on both islands enjoy an ever expanding variety of lifestyle choices. From extravagant luxury to bohemian retreat, the amplitude of alternatives on offer around the islands now covers almost every taste, budget and personal desire. Brochures and websites often refer to Samui and Phangan as two of Thailand’s untouched discoveries. They go to great lengths to paint an idyllic picture of a secluded tropical paradise, swathed in white sand and fringed by beckoning palms. Although this side of both islands’ personalities still exists in some areas, for the most part they are now complemented by a slew of man-made additions, some of which infringe on the natural appeal, others actually enhancing it. What this means for international visitors and those lucky enough to live on Thailand’s favourite boutique isles, is that each has become something of a ‘genie in the lamp’, granting the many wishes asked of them and matching expectations across a wide palette of personal preferences.

A lux life When foreign investors first realised that Koh Samui was not only beautiful, but very affordable as a location to build or buy property, the funds came flooding in. Cash rich dreamers began buying up beach and hillside plots, which soon became private palaces boasting all the accoutrements of contemporary comfort. Obstacles such as regular power cuts and limited road access didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem to deter these high-end conquistadors and their ready supply of capital soon made an impact, not only on the island landscape but also the economy as a whole. Interest then spread to Koh Phangan, and ten years later, the islands are now a haven for many wealthy escapees from places as far reaching as the UK, Hong Kong and Russia, which has also made Samui and Kph Phangan some of the most sought after destinations in Asia for private villa holidays.

Many of the most salubrious island residences are almost invisible, hidden in the hills or tucked away on less developed beaches. Almost all of them feature private swimming pools, leading edge AV technology and indulgent design features like private spas and cinema rooms. Most people would be shocked to know there are well over a hundred of these top end homes scattered around the two islands. More amazing still is that during the most popular seasons all of them are occupied, either by their owners or by rental guests. Management companies and agents such as Samui Villas and Homes and Koh Phangan Holiday Homes cater to an ever expanding clientele from around the globe. The market is constantly shifting, but demand remains high and a healthy range of subsidiary services has emerged - from wine importers to pool cleaning firms - to keep pace with the requirements of luxury guests.

A healthy escape As the island’s reputation for luxury spreads, so does its fame as a top notch health retreat. Since Tamarind Springs first opened in 1998, wellness seekers from around the world have looked on Samui as a place to retreat and revitalize. More recent additions such as Kamalaya and Absolute Sanctuary have added to the global appeal and a good number of recognised experts in a variety of alternative therapies now regularly visit the island to lecture, give treatments and add there knowledge to the spa and wellness choices on offer to health conscious guests. Yoga is also a major draw, with classes held in a variety of disciplines and locations. Koh Phangan also boasts some popular health retreats, The Sanctuary being one of the most famous, while for more traditional Thai therapies, a visit to one of the smaller massage shops on both islands, or an hour spent enjoying a relaxing beach massage have become an integral part of life for many tourists and local residents. On the medical side, Samui’s three main private hospitals are well equipped and professionally staffed. As well as regular medical services, these facilities also now offer a range of subsidiary health choices to match increased demand for what is often described as “Medical Tourism”. A suite of of cosmetic procedures, laser eye treatments, plus various health and beauty packages allow visitors to combine a holiday with a physical makeover, an option that’s becoming increasingly popular and therefore adding significantly to the island’s appeal.

A place to celebrate Although Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party still tops the list in terms of the number of revelers it attracts every month (20 to 30 000 people in high season), the island’s smaller parties also attract plenty of fun seekers. On Koh Samui, the party scene has developed into a sophisticated calendar of regular events, with oceanside clubs like Beach Republic and Nikki Beach hosting international DJs to entertain the jet setter crowds at their regular parties and celebrations. The Black Moon party by Chaweng Lake is another favourite with both Thai and foreign dance lovers, while more modest but equally popular gatherings are organised by the island’s more established event management specialists like The Agency Asia. All these opportunities for fun and social time make the islands increasingly popular with long term visitors, with events attracting a good mix of old and new faces almost every weekend. 58

Destination weddings have also put Samui, and more recently Koh Phangan on the map when it comes to more private but equally memorable celebrations. The island’s popularity as a place to tie the knot is constantly on the rise, with hotels and resorts offering a range of wedding packages that includes everything from a traditional Thai style ceremony to an extravagant high society gathering on the beach. Once the vows have been exchanged, extravagant parties generally follow, with fine food and service, and the champagne flowing as fireworks fill the night sky. Private villas are also now popular wedding venues as they guarantee the ultimate personalised shindig with live performances and late night revelry fuelled by the island’s DJs.

The Thai side Despite the obvious international influences, Samui is still a very Thai island in many ways. Beyond the beaches and tourist centres Thai life continues in its own way, in some cases oblivious to the tourist crowds that fill the hotels and beachside restaurants. Nathon is a world away from Chaweng, and even in the latter, just a few hundred metres inland from the beach, Lam Din Market is a distinctive reminder that Thai culture is alive and thriving on Samui. Koh Phangan, those less populated also has a strong sense of identity and has developed more slowly than its sister island thanks to the local people’s desire to preserve the island’s natural character. Many of the most successful businesses in both islands are Thai owned and particularly in recent years, the local governments have been active in safeguarding their local heritage and making sure Thai people are involved in making decisions that will affect future generations. The multi-dimensional elements that co-exist on these two small islands in the Thai Gulf make it very easy for residents and visitors to either choose a niche and live it to the full, or switch between them for a constantly changing version of island life. In the next issue of Samui Phangan Magazine, we will explore more of the diverse and distinctive aspects that make up the whole.

The Emerald Tongson

The Emerald Tongson Development results from a vision to create an innovative design with iconic modern, yet tropical architecture in an environmentally sensitive haven. This exclusive ocean front compound of only four 2 bedroom pool villas along one of the most inspiring shore lines of Choengmons Tongson Bay presents a new cool approach to exclusive tropical living. Features: • Car park with 4 lots • Common entrance lounge • Built to marine environment standard • Low consumption LED light features • Copper/Silver mineral pool treatment • Total villa size: 200-220m2

Original Real Estate co.,ltd.

JMan Marina Co Ltd Mobile: +66 (o) 8 1893 5996 www.jman-marina.com Email: info@jman-marina.com Original_nikhomrat@hotmail.com

8/10 Moo 5 Bophut Koh Samui 84320 Thailand

Stunning Villa For Sale Delightful property built on a half Rai of land overlooking the stunning view of Bang Po beach over to Koh Phangan. Occupying 1000 sqm of living space this luxury house features it’s own waterfall and sizeable infinity pool with Jacuzzi. The property is protected by a state-of-art security and camera system • 5 Bedrooms (3 with En Suite Bathrooms) • 3 Bathrooms • 3 Living Rooms • 2 Kithens • 1 Dining Room • 1 Pool Room

• 1 Gym • 1 Office • Carport for two cars • Twin Motorbike Garage • Maid’s Quarters • Sold fully furnihed

Price on Application Tel: +66 (0) 8 1341 4755

Building a Home

Building Regulations

Holiday Villas

At Ecomate we have the vision to make your business

your

and products more green. Through innovative technology and professional resource management we can help reduce power consumption and limit waste. Applying a Reduce, Reuse, Recycle policy, we help preserve your natural resources and promote a more environmentally friendly society.

eco

Alternative Energy

Water Treatmeant and Water Reuse

Seawater Desalination

Heat Exchanger “Free Hot Water from Air Conditioning”

way

Contact person:

Pisit Promlakano 083-6378700 ecomatethai@gmail.com info@ecomate.co.th Ecomate Company Limited 27/29 Moo 5 Tumbon Maenam Koh Samui Suratthani 84330 Thailand Tel. & Fax: 077- 447259

www.ecomate.co.th

Tax Update

Your off-shore entity’s rental income tax

he use of off-shore entities, such as a company incorporated in the British Virgin Islands (“BVI”) to own real estate is not uncommon in Thailand. One reason often cited by investors using such entities organized under foreign law for such purpose is that they believe it will result in significant tax savings. Whereas this may be true with regard to any tax applicable to the “sale” of the real estate by way of sale of the off-shore entity itself, it may not be true with regard to other potential tax liabilities. This article will analyse the tax consequences of an offshore entity renting out real estate it owns in Thailand. In general, juristic persons “carrying on business in Thailand” are subject to corporate income tax (“CIT”) at the basic rate of 30%. CIT is applicable whether these entitles are incorporated under Thai law or some other foreign law. Entities organized under Thai law are subject to CIT on their worldwide income. However, entities organized under a foreign law are only subject to CIT if such income results from “carrying on business in Thailand”. If an entity incorporated under foreign law that is not “carrying on business in Thailand”, but receives payment of assessable income from or within Thailand, such payment is subject to a withholding tax (“WHT”) at a rate 10% or 15% depending on the type of payment, for example as follows:

INCOME DERIVED FROM:

WHT RATE:

Service

15%

Interest

15%

Royalties

15%

Dividends

10%

Rent

15%

Liberal professions

15%

Where the recipient of assessable income is an off-shore party, the Revenue Code of Thailand (“RC”) places the liability for filing the applicable WHT return and submitting the tax payment itself on the payer of the assessable income; in our rental income example, the lessee of the real estate owned by the off-shore entity. Thus, tax liability for such rental income depends on whether or not the off-shore entity is deemed to be “carrying on business in Thailand”. The RC does not define “carrying on business in Thailand”. Section 66, paragraph 2 of the RC states that juristic companies or partnerships organized under foreign laws and carrying on business in Thailand are subject to the same tax as those organized under Thai law, but only with respect to income arising from or in consequence of the business carried on in Thailand. In addition, Section 76bis of the RC states: “For a company or juristic partnership incorporated under foreign laws which has an employee, an agent or a go-between for carrying on business in Thailand and as a result receives income or profits in Thailand, such company or juristic partnership shall be deemed to be carrying on business in Thailand and the person who acts as an employee, an agent or a go-between for the business, whether he is an individual or a juristic person, shall be deemed to be representative of the company or juristic partnership incorporated under foreign laws and shall have the duty and liability to file a tax return and tax payment in accordance with the provisions of this Part, with respect to only the abovementioned income or profits.” The practical implication of Section 76bis is obvious. If the real estate owned by a foreign entity is leased out through an on-shore agent, rental pool, etc., such agent or rental pool company could be deemed to be an “employee, an agent or a go-between” of such foreign entity. The result would be that the foreign entity would then be treated like a Thai entity with regard to the income derived from its real estate located in Thailand and its rental income would be subject to the same tax regime. Furthermore, the on-shore liability to file the tax return and pay the applicable tax on behalf of the off-shore entity would be on the said agent or rental-pool company. It should be noted, however, that there are exceptions to the above. Depending on the jurisdiction in which such off-shore entity is registered such entity, and thereby any purported on-shore agent of the off-shore entity, may be able to invoke the provisions of a Double Taxation Agreement (“DTA”) between the jurisdiction in which the off-shore entity was incorporated and Thailand, thus limiting the potential and scope of exposure to full Thai CIT on such rental income. Unfortunately, however, investors using off-shore entities from jurisdictions that do not have a DTA with Thailand such as the BVI, will not be entitled to invoke the protection. Both their off-shore entity and its on-shore agent have a significantly heightened exposure to full Thai CIT liability on rental income earned in Thailand. DUENSING KIPPEN is a multi-service boutique law firm specializing in real estate and corporate/commercial transactional matters as well as arbitration proceedings arising therefrom. It is the only such firm in Thailand that also compliments its transactional expertise with a core tax law practice. DUENSING KIPPEN can be reached at: samui@dktaxandlaw.com or for more information please visit them at: www.dktaxandlaw.com 85

Jerrold Kippen & Olaf Duensing are senior partners at DUENSING KIPPEN Tax and Law, specialists in real estate related tax and legal issues in Thailand.

Legal

Land Title Deeds in Thailand There are two main types of land ownership in Thailand which we should explain

Rights of Possession Firstly there is the right of possession, for example, land that has been used by a family for generations to the benefit of the land and they have possession rights of the land under the civil and commercial code. Such titles are Sor Kor 1,Tor Bor 5 , 6 or Sor Por Gor 4. These titles basically are only family possession rights and generally only used for farming. These titles can not be bought or sold and no building rights or legal acts would be allowed on the land. I do know of cases where families being in possession of certain pieces of land for generations have been able to upgrade them to regular land title deeds but this is not generally the case and any serious investor would not normally give any credibility to these titles of possession.

Rights of Ownership Usually we are looking for land title deeds giving right of ownership not possession. Here there are basically three title deeds:- Chanote, Nor Sor 3 and Nor Sor 3 Gor. The most sought after titles are the Chanote and the Nor Sor 3 Gor as both these titles have legal documents of Rights of Ownership and can be sub-divided into smaller plots and planning permission and any such legal acts can be carried out immediately on the land.The only difference with the Nor Sor 3 is that although legal documents are issued for the land it has not been accurately surveyed which can lead to problems in verifying actual land area. And if any legal act is to take place on this land it must be published for at least 30 days. As we have been saying all the way through if it is not clear 100%, seek the advice of a legal professional in this field, as there are also many other issues that are important to consider such as servitude, access and rights of way.

Land Measurement & Survey Land in Thailand is measured in Rai, Ngan and Talang Wah. • 1 Wah= 4 sqm • 1 Ngan= 100 Wah or 400 sqm • 4 Ngan= 1 Rai or 1600 sqm In comparison to Western Standards: • 2.50 Rai= 1 Acre • 6.25 Rai= 1 Hectare 86

Legal

Tips for starting a new business Are you planning to start your own business for the first time in Thailand? If so, we hope this useful information will help put your business on the right track. The simplest and easiest sort of company for foreigners to form with a small business is a Thai Limited Company. In Thailand, a Limited Company is a company with up to 100 shareholders, who share the same business purpose and is formed with a Capital divided into equal shares. Getting started To set up a company, you must first have the memorandum that can be acquired at the registration office. To properly register, you are required to provide the authorities with details of your company and list a minimum of three shareholders (who can either be Thai or foreign nationals or both). At least seven days after you first approach the department, you can call a shareholder’s meeting to reach an agreement on the purpose of your business and set up the company’s operational rules. Having agreed on the purpose of your business, you can then apply for business registration at the same department. If you cannot agree on company rules, you can refer to those stated in the Civil and Commercial Code’s partnership and companies section. Shares Besides the issues of business registration, you must also make sure that your company’s shares are worth no less than 5 baht each. These shares can be transferred or even sold if the company has no regulations on this matter. Every shareholder must be given a share certificate, a document that guarantees their status as a shareholder. Should anyone wish to transfer their shares to another party; they have to fill in the share transfer form that confirms the deal between the transferor and transferee. The company also has to have in its possession a register of shareholders that contains a record of all the company’s shareholders. The book is evidence that will identify the company’s shareholders. Shareholders and Chairperson A Limited Company’s shareholders can be either Thai or foreign nationals or both, but the percentage of shares held by foreign national plays a significant role in determining the nationality of your company, which may impose serious limitations on the company’s rights, such as landownership. If less than 49% of your company’s shares are held by foreigners, your company is considered a Thai company. However, if foreign nationals hold more than 49% of the shares, your company is a foreign company. The significant differences between Thai and foreign companies operating in Thailand lie in their rights to buy and own properties or other businesses. It is therefore important, especially for those in real estate and development businesses, to know and remember that unless your company is Thai, you are restricted in the ability to possess and obtain land and property in this country without an exemption granted by the government.

Foreign companies are also restricted to certain activities and to proceed with certain operations the company will have to apply for permission from the government. In such instances, applications will be considered case by case. They will also face tough scrutiny and strict restrictions on their right to operate and ability to run their business. These companies will be treated in the same way as foreign nationals seeking jobs in Thailand. If you are registered as a Thai company, you are automatically granted the right to purchase and own properties and other business and will be treated the same way as a Thai citizen. However, according to new legislation that has recently come into effect, the Land Department’s staff are now required to thoroughly investigate your Thai shareholders’ sources of income. Thai shareholders in a company wishing to purchase properties in Thailand have to declare their income and provide the authorities with evidence that proves their ability to co-invest with other foreign shareholders in the same company. Only those successful in convincing the authorities are granted the right to purchase and possess land. Companies with approval from the Land Department can then proceed with their applications for land title deeds or other certificates of use and possession. Little things that matter A company limited has to have its own board of directors to act on behalf of the company. This panel will, however, act under the regulations and agreements approved by the shareholders. Appointing directors or removing any of them requires shareholders approval. At the end of the company’s financial year, within five months, it shall be the duty of the company to present the balance sheet to the Department of Business Development (DBD). If your company fails to present the balance sheet, the company will be fined up to 50,000 baht and the company’s board of directors may also be fined up to 50,000 baht. If the committee refuses to pay the fine, the police can appeal to the court for a warrant and file a lawsuit against the resilient parties. Withdrawal of the company’s business registration is also another penalty the company may face, should they not provide the authorities with the necessary statement. Information courtesy of Khun Surin Puangpakdee Senior Lawyer NSP&Laws Firm

Rechtsgrundlage

Legal

VISAS & WORK PERMITS I have recently been asked to clarify the way the Thai system works with visas and work permits if you are opening a company here and would like to have a work permit. Firstly I must point out that each Thai province does follow slightly different guidelines and my information does in no way substitute you actually having a legal consultation with a reputable lawyer’s company if you actually intend to work. There are those that believe the little they would do in reality would make a work permit hardly worth the trouble. This is a big mistake and one that could cost you more problems than you would believe. The Thai Immigration takes cases of foreigners working without a work permit very seriously and the penalties are harsh. If you are here on a tourist visa you cannot in any way participate in a job. So let’s have a look at what’s actually required to apply for a work permit. Firstly you need to have a business class visa which in most cases will have to be applied for at a Thai Consulate outside of Thailand. There have recent changes to the system, whereby smaller Thai embassies such as the one in Penang, Malaysia, have stopped issuing multiple entry visas. Initially there were those who whispered that the only way to arrange these multiple entry visas was for the individual in question to return to their home country and obtain the visa from their local Thai embassy. This however had been proved to be incorrect with the embassy in Kuala Lumpur still issuing multiple entry visas until recently, but currently the situation remains in a state of flux with even legal professionals unsure as to the long term guidelines. We therefore strongly advise obtaining up-to-date legal advice well in advance of pursuing your visa run, to ensure you are fully equipped with the documentation currently required for your business visa. Those working in Samui who earn a salary of 50,000 Baht per month however, shouldn’t have to face these visa run hassles, as they’re entitled to a business visa that only needs to be renewed once per annum at an immigration office. Further details of this scheme can be obtained via a legal professional or at the local immigration office in Na-Thon. Either way, once you have the correct visa, you’ll be able to apply for or renew your current work permit. Once again there are procedures required for this, which your legal professional will prepare for you. This process might seem tedious, but it is nothing unusual, with every country having its own procedures and legal applications. Thailand is no different and don’t be fooled by the laid back and casual attitude of many Thai people on the island, as this is no reflection of the order required in any formal legal requests such as visa or work permit applications. When it comes to legal matters you need to ensure you follow the correct procedure and can produce the appropriate paperwork. All in all, it is easy to see why the services of a professional and thorough legal company are invaluable, saving you much confusion, stress and potentially time and money. 98

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Interior Tips

Tooi n Much Stuff Your Home? Maintaining a singular theme with your interior design appears to be the most logical path to take in order to inspire harmony within your home. However, given that you have a sofa purchased when New Wave was blaring on the radio, a dining table bought when Clinton was running for President, and blankets that belong to the Facebook era, is it still possible to make all these room elements blend peacefully and come up with a unified design? The daunting task of clearing out your home from stuff that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fit with your design theme is something you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ignore since it keeps your home from going stale and out of style. However, planning on how you will deal with the potential problems is a good start on your way to a more harmonious home. This can be done by creating a folder that contains drawings of each room, their current function, and ideas how you can make them appear and function better. Once you have created a folder, there are three questions that you should ask yourself when dealing with the furniture, blankets, tables, and other products that you plan on removing from your interior spaces: 110

What should I get rid of? Imagine yourself without that particular product inside your home. Will the place improve without it? Now, imagine yourself with the product and try to find ways that will help it serve its purpose while fitting nicely inside the rooms. Does it stick out like a sore thumb regardless of how and where you put it? If the answer for both questions is a resounding “no,” then it’s time to get them out of your home as fast as you can. To get a better idea of what you should throw out, consider the form of the design objects. Successful interior designs have maintained a certain form or shape from its furniture, whether they are soft and round on the edges or tight and square. Determine the shape in which the particular room in your home is leaning to, then figure out the furniture that needs to get moved or out your home. Getting rid of your unwanted stuff can also be a profitable venture. Instead of disposing the furniture you don’t need, you can sell them to your local flea market and make money out of them, in which you can purchase stuff that you can actually use for your home.

What should I save? Unless the object is irredeemable and simply does not fit the context of your design theme, there is always a way to keep it from going to waste. Saving your stuff is easier than discarding it, but you should be smart enough to know the things you have to repair or improve. Therefore, you should be concerned of the inherent value of each design object before saving them. Antiques, period pieces, and similar objects – despite their damaged states – simply cost more than your regular furniture and are worth keeping.

What to keep? Keeping things is a very personal judgment. One good reason why you should keep the obsolete design objects is their personal meaning to you. A certain level of sentimentality with an object is inevitable due to several reasons and having that conviction for certain objects is good for design. They bring your interior space personality and character that distinguishes your personal style. Article Courtesy of www.schoolofinteriordesign.org

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Garden Guide

The Magic of

Water

Moving water brings a dynamic element into the garden. Water cascading from a waterfall or fountain creates a backdrop of sound and the combined visual and aural effect can emanate both vitality and a soothing hypnosis. With ‘usability’ being the key notion to keep in mind, when designing a home landscape in this part of the world, the more comfort and intrigue there is within the garden, the more reason there will be to spend time in it. To this end, the cooling effect of water in landscaping, that the Romans so ingeniously employed, is an equally essential device in the tropical climate A well appointed pond or, indeed, any water feature, can serve as a cool and atmospheric focal point or destination and can be creatively incorporated into pedestrian routes with stepping stones, bridges and ‘floating’ terraces. Water also makes for both an impressive and welcoming entrance detail, with the sound of moving water creating an inviting and defining effect when entering a dwelling. The introduction of fish and plants brings essential life into standing pools. Plants can serve to soften and embrace the structure whilst fish provide interest whilst controlling the breeding of mosquito larvae.

Types of water feature Most water features require the inclusion of one or more bodies of standing water. To avoid stagnation these must be aerated in some way. A waterfall of any size, or a fountain, will serve this purpose, creating a suitable habitat for both plants and fish. Landscapes containing more than one body of standing water can be linked by brooks, channels, waterfalls or a reclining cascade. Standing water, in any situation, can present safety issues, especially in households with small children. Waterfalls without ponds can be very effective. Here the water

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may cascade onto stones which cover a drainable structure. The collected water can then be circulated to a covered well which feeds the waterfall. Many variations on both natural and ornamental water features, not requiring ponds, exist or can be conceived, allowing the advantages gleaned from the presence of water to be enjoyed without concern for safety. Ponds come in many shapes and sizes but their shape can generally be split into two types; formal or natural. The natural freeform pond can be constructed to any desired shape and in any place which it could appear natural, whereas the formal variation will usually be of a balanced, geometric nature and will often be positioned to compliment or accent some related architecture.

Location As with most elements of the garden, when planning and positioning a water feature, the factors of sun, wind and rain must be considered. Ponds designed to contain plants and/or fish must be done so with consideration of how much sun they will be exposed to throughout the day. Sites in full-day sunlight should be avoided unless some additional shading can be provided by, maybe, planting a suitably developed tree. In order to maintain a conducive habitat for plants and fish, the water must not be allowed to become too hot, causing discomfort for fish in shallow pools and promoting quick evaporation. Deeper ponds, or at least ones that have a deep area, are more suitable for this purpose. Heavy rainfall during monsoon season and other sporadic times throughout the year will quickly fill and overflow ponds. This being the case, adequate drainage for overflowing water needs to be installed. This is usually addressed by including an aperture or low point for water to leave the pond to be directed toward a suitable area to dissipate, via either; a channel, underground pipe or â&#x20AC;&#x153;klongâ&#x20AC;?.

Lighting Underwater lights should be installed to create dramatic effect at night and should be planned from conception for maximum effect. Positioning of lighting should be done carefully with consideration made for the play of shadows from the waters surface on surrounding plant-life or structures. Waterfalls work best under-lit to maximize the effect of the dancing shadows created by falling water. A well conceived water-scape can be the beating heart of the garden, creating movement and sound to breathe life and music into your outdoor living spaces. Information provided courtesy of Botanical Designs www.botanical-designs.asia

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Home Maintenance

BEETLES ARE A BORE Wood-boring beetles are commonly found in Thailand. One most often seen is the Asian Long Horned Beetle, but there are several families of beetles whose larvae feed on wood and wood products. Wood-boring beetles play an important ecological role by tunneling through dead and decaying wood to aid decomposition. However to have wood boring beetle in your home can be very damaging and time consuming to treat, if not dealt with immediately. Wood-boring beetle adults lay eggs in the cracks and crevices of exposed wood. When these eggs hatch, larvae bore into the wood, producing tunnels as they feed. While adults who have emerged from wood may only live a few days or weeks, the destructive larvae often spend 2 to 5 years boring through wood.

What kinds of materials are commonly infested by wood beetles? Wood-boring beetles which attack harvested wood in structures can damage almost any wood product. These may include wooden pallets, crates, or shipping carts; firewood; and household wooden items such as picture frames, broom handles, bamboo and bamboo products, wicker baskets and furniture, carved wooden art objects, wooden artifacts, decorative driftwood, wooden furniture, and wood paneling. The adults of some species also bore into soft metals, plaster, and plastic.

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What are the signs of a wood beetle infestation? Since adult wood-boring beetles emerge within wood, look for round or oval exit holes that range in size from 1/32” to 3/8”. Fine sawdust or frass (food fragments and excrement) may fall from exit holes and create small piles on the floor or surfaces below the wood. Dust or frass reappearing within one to weeks of cleanup indicates an active infestation.

How to Prevent Wood-boring beetle infestations Prevention is the best management for wood-infesting beetles. • Inspect timber and wood products for holes when selecting, if possible, or when delivered to your home • Use wood that his been kiln or air dried to reduce moisture that is favorable to wood-infesting beetles • Reduce moisture inside the home with proper ventilation, drainage, and dehumidifiers • Treat unfinished wood with a appropriate sealants with added beetle protection built in For more information contact ECOPEST SAMUI Tel:-0857912496 115

Smart Samui

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A stable investment EZ Dock’s patented flotation design creates stability, which means that when you walk on an EZ Dock, you will immediately notice the difference when compared to other floating docks. These docks don’t just float, they actually enhance steadiness thanks to the compression and suction of the hollow chambers on the underside. The connection couplers are made of recycled material to prevent fatigue problems, and the coupler bolt and nut are composite, eliminating rust in all water conditions. Unlike traditional dock systems, where everything is put together as a one-piece unit, the EZ Dock system is engineered to move with the water when needed to accommodate for changing environments. This allows for dock pieces to flex and separate so that the pieces can move freely without damage during periods of bad weather and rough seas. Once the sun returns, you can easily put your dock back in its original position. EZ Dock offers several anchoring options to keep your floating dock safe and secure in any conditions. Pipes, deadweight anchors, piling brackets, and stiff arms are among the anchoring options available. EZ Dock also offers anchoring hardware to accommodate both freshwater and saltwater situations. Various gangway options are also available, including hardware kits that allow you to build your own wooden gangway with 2” x 12” boards. Polyethylene gangways up to 18’ are also an option, as well as various aluminum gangways.

Low maintenance technology In terms of maintenance, EZ Dock offers a long-life of relatively maintenance-free enjoyment. Normally a good rainfall is all that is required to keep the dock clean, although a wash with soap and water or a pressure washer from time to time may be needed to keep the dock looking new. The surfaces have a nonskid texture molded into the dock sections and also feature grooves to channel the water away. These two features work together to provide safe footing, even when the surfaces are wet. In direct sunlight, the light color of EZ Dock helps keep the surfaces cooler than most other dock surfaces. EZ Dock also incorporates a UV-8 inhibitor in all of its products. These inhibitors range from UV-1, the lowest protection to UV-8, the highest. EZ Dock also produces an extremely thick product of 3/8” average thickness with 1950 psi puncture strength for guaranteed resistance.

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Environmentally friendly In today’s world, we all have an ever-increasing responsibility to take care of the environment. EZ Dock’s patented system is purpose-built to be an eco-friendly alternative to wood and foam-filled docks, fishing piers and free-floating swimming platforms, which can release harmful substances into their natural surroundings. The floating, modular dock systems are composed of two parts: polyethylene sections and molded rubber couplers. Both components are made of materials that are completely harmless to the environment and can be recycled when the intended use is finished. In addition, EZ Dock modular sections a adhere to the following environmental safety regulations: • Manufactured with NRA-235 high-performance, general-purpose, UV-stabilized, rotational molding grade resins; these resins offer a balance of toughness, rigidity, environmental stress crack resistance and low temperature impact performance* • Resin conforms to FDA regulations (21 CFR 177.1520) regarding the use of polyethylene in food contact articles* • Suitable for processing by an approved recycling facility, or can be disposed of at any US government approved waste disposal facility* • Not listed by the EPA as a hazardous waste, nor is it formulated to contain materials that are listed hazardous wastes* • Does not exhibit the hazardous characteristics of ignitability, corrosively or reactivity, and is not formulated with contaminants as determined by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP)* • Requires no foam filling; when a product is filled with foam, that foam can escape if the product is punctured, thereby creating an environmental hazard • Uses no wood products, which could be treated with copper, chromium or arsenic (CCA); products that contain CCA can no longer be placed where they are directly in contact with water

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• Patented connection coupler (partially funded by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency) is engineered to be an environmentally friendly product; coupler is made from 90% pre / post consumer waste recycled rubber

Accessible for all EZ Dock is designed to ensure that anyone and everyone can use the dock. That’s why the product is engineered to conform to the United States Access Board’s regulatory guidelines ensuring universal accessibility. In 1993, the United States Access Board established an advisory committee to recommend accessibility guidelines for recreation facilities. Such guidelines were developed with significant public participation. Guidelines for both Accessible Boating Facilities and Accessible Fishing Piers and Platforms have been developed and updated over the years, and we make it a point to stay on top of the standards. Outside the US, EZ Dock works with clients to make sure your dock or marinas comply with local governmental or regulatory guidelines and accessibility standards. EZ Dock is a global organization with a worldwide distribution network of multi-lingual professionals who can help you create a marine facility that everyone can enjoy. For more information please contact: EZ Dock (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Tel: 077 426 955 ezdockthai@gmail.com

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House for Rent

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15,000 per month

Bedrooms: 2, Bathrooms: 2, Kitchen: Western, Furnished: Fully, House sq Mt: 112 Air conditioning: Bedrooms, Pool Type: Communal, Garden: Toppical, Security Cable/Satellite: UBC, Internet: ADSL Mobile: 081 535 9100 Email: truevisions_kohsamui@hotmail.com

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Koh Phangan Map

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The Evolution of Koh Phangan

Thong Nai Pan Estate Photo Courtesy of Steven Willeboordse

Stunning beaches, an affordable lifestyle and an appealing island environment have drawn a growing number of visitors and residents to Koh Phangan’s tropical shores. Many of the island’s visitors choose to stay longer than they originally planned and this has led to the establishment of a sizeable foreign community of long stay tourists, working residents, business owners and retirees. The number of foreign investors choosing Koh Phangan as their second home is increasing every year, with easy transport access, a fast developing infrastructure and a range of lifestyle and hospitality services all adding to the island’s growing appeal. Koh Phangan is a rare island escape just a short boat ride from Koh Samui’s more developed and commercial environment. This means residents and visitors can enjoy the unspoiled beauty of some of Thailand’s finest beaches while still having access to the comforts and benefits of a modern lifestyle. The recent growth in the number of luxury hotels and private villas on the island has prompted the emergence of more upmarket retail, dining and entertainment choices, with cool nightspots and restaurants opening in the more popular beaches like Haad Rin and Thong Nai Pan. As Koh Phangan evolves from a backpacker haven into a full service destination, the island is attracting those with the spending power to combine natural escape with a sophisticated island lifestyle. The Thai government and its tourism authority has long been promoting Koh Phangan as an eco-destination in order to transform the island’s reputation from party venue to tropical escape, promoting Koh Phangan’s natural beauty and untainted environment to the world. Eco adventures and marine based activities are widely available to visitors and residents with mountain biking, diving, wake boarding and jungle treks all on offer to encourage a more sensitive approach to island life that also minimises the impact on the island’s eco-system. On a practical level, the opening of a modest Tesco Lotus Supermarket, combined with a significant increase in the number of foreign run businesses has had a real impact in terms on the ease of living on Koh Phangan. Designer boutiques, international cuisine, real estate agents and developers are all gradually changing the island landscape, yet the laid back lifestyle has thus far survived and the local people are known for their commitment to 127

preserving their traditional culture. Whether selling the daily catch from their boats, chatting with friends in the shade of the village ‘sala’ or celebrating weddings with dances and local music, local people remain distinctively Thai in many ways. As for the foreign residents, the ease of life, natural beauty and diversity of lifestyle choices make Koh Phangan a unique destination as either a permanent or second home. Koh Phangan real estate Koh Phangan’s real estate sector has grown as the island has developed and become more popular with visitors from around the world. Investment opportunities abound, whether it is raw beach and mountain land, off plan residential purchases or completed luxury villas for sale. Prices are considerably lower than they are on Koh Samui, which often attracts adventurous Thong Nai Pan Estate Photo Courtesy of Steven Willeboordse investors looking for an affordable slice of paradise. Restrictive ownership laws in Thailand, however, mean buyers are advised to go through reputable law firms when considering any purchases on Koh Phangan. As is the case on Koh Samui or Phuket, it is important for anyone considering an investment to thoroughly research the laws and regulations, as well as to ensure that any land titles are thoroughly checked and that the most secure method of purchase is found to guarantee a trouble free, long-term investment. Investors should also look into the track record of any construction firms they employ to guarantee that their reputation is solid and that any previous projects have been successfully completed. Island development Recent road improvements have made Koh Phangan significantly more accessible to visitors and potential residents. Work is ongoing in several areas, particularly on the road that links Ban Tai with Thong Nai Pan, as well as the mountain pass that connects the west and east coast beaches. This means it is much easier to travel around the island and therefore also more convenient for long stay visitors to base themselves on a particular beach and head out for shopping, dining or entertainment. Reaching Koh Samui is also very swift and easy with ferry companies offering regular services from Thong Sala to Big Buddha Beach and Nathon, including a car ferry service that also continues on to the mainland at Suratthani. The Haad Rin Queen ferry leaves and departs the south of the island for Samui four times a day, depending on the season. It is also possible to hire a speedboat, which can take as little as 15 minutes to cross the channel that separates the two islands. A planned airport has yet to be confirmed on Koh Phangan with local people both for and against such a move. Various plans have been discussed, but the island’s geography 128

means construction of an airport would be expensive and complex and may even involve land reclamation or the creation of a floating runway. Phangan Hot Spots Haad Rin was made famous by the monthly Full Moon Party and consists of two sweeping beaches known as sunrise and sunset and connected by a small but thriving tourist town on the east tip of the island. Haad Rin has become a bustling centre for shopping, with a large selection of retail outlets offering beach wear, jewellery, crafts and souvenirs. Haad Rin also boasts a handful of modest medical centres, but for serious conditions patients are transported to the larger and better equipped hospitals on Koh Samui. Baan Tai beach is a small oceanside community situated around half way between Haad Rin and the port of Thongsala. Most of the beach resorts in the area have their own Thai and western restaurant, and the village that lines the road has developed into something of a modern hippy enclave, with a bakery and a handful of international cafes. Haad Yao has long been a popular holiday location and is easily reached by road from Thongsala. The beach is known for its fabulous sunsets and the laid back feeling that Koh Phangan is well know for. A good selection of beach and village restaurants serve both tourists and long stay residents, with tasty Thai food and western favourites all available. There’s also a good bakery serving fresh bread. Chaloklum is one of the island’s largest fishing villages and still offers fishing boats a safe harbour during the storm season. The long, secluded beach is a picturesque idyll and the village that has grown along the coast now boasts a diverse bar and restaurant scene, known to many residents and regular visitors for its fine seafood restaurants and water sports centres. Haad Salad is on Koh Phangan’s west coast is known as a quite, family oriented beach, lined with resorts but with some new residential offerings in the surrounding hills. Located down a steep hill from a hillside road, the beach has retained a remote feel but still offers plenty of good food and recreation choices. Thong Nai Pan on the North East coast of Koh Phangan is home to what many people feel are two of the best beaches in Thailand. Tong Nai Pan Noi (small) is the location for some of the island’s most luxurious accommodation, while Thong Nai Pan Yai (big) features a range of mid-range resorts-restaurants and a luxury private development at Thong Nai Pan Estate. Both beaches are also the chosen location for new residential projects in the nearby hills. Other popular beach areas on Koh Phangan include Bottle Beach, a peaceful desert island destination, Sadet beach, home to Koh Phangan’s most famous national park, as well as Had Thien and Had Yuan beaches, only accessible by boat and famous for their wellness centres and peaceful tropical surroundings. 129

Expo

130

The ibis Koh Samui Trophy

2011

International Adventure Race and Fun Run Adventure Racing is a highly visual and dynamic sporting contest that stretches competitors to their limits. It is a sport that is rapidly capturing the imagination of exercise enthusiasts all over Thailand and around the world and one appeals to both amateur and professional sports people, as well as spectators who can follow the action as it switches from the road to forest, mountains and the sea. The third edition of “The ibis Koh Samui Trophy” will once again bring this new, spectacular and fast growing sport of to the South of Thailand. Supported by ibis Hotels Thailand, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Tourism Association of Koh Samui and the Thai Hotel Association of Koh Samui, this year’s Adventure Race is set to attract 100 teams from around the world. Scheduled for September 17, 2011 and part of the Amazing Thailand Adventure Race Series, the race will start and finish on Bophut beach. “After the tremendous international success of the last River Kwai Trophy in Kanchanaburi, we are very excited to bring quality Adventure Racing in Samui again” explains Serge Henkens, the Race Director and managing director of Active Management Asia.. “We also want to involve local communities and people who are not keen to compete in a

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strenuous adventure race, so the event will also give the opportunity for all to participate in this unique sport’s day event. Schools will animate the activities throughout the day with dances, show and songs”. This year’s event looks even more interesting than the 2010 contest, with top Asian teams coming from China, Hong Kong and Singapore to challenge local champions and last year winners Saman Gunnan and Seree Ruansiri. The Asian champions Asia Pacific Adventure team led by Adventure Racing Star Ryan Blair will be the main contenders on Samui this year. Chiru Endurance team from Hong Kong is also looking for silverware.

A sports day for all The schedule for the “The ibis Koh Samui Trophy 2011” consists of 3 days of activities with an expo for sponsors to promote their products and services, parties and VIP hospitality, the spectacular sprint Adventure Race, a kids fun run in the fishing village of Bophut, shows, dances and songs from local schools and the final Trophy presentation party. The main event will offer 4 disciplines: Running, Cycling, Kayaking and Swimming. The competitors will hike and run through unspoiled jungle, paddle and swim on the turquoise waters of the gulf of Thailand and cycle over the hills with spectacular views on the ocean.

The main Adventure Race features 2 divisions: The Adventure division - with short course for newcomers and ‘weekend warriors’. The Extreme Division - with a long course for confirmed athletes and experienced racers. The teams consist of 2 racers with separate categories for men, women, mixed, Masters Men (over 80 years 132

combined) and Grand Masters Men (over 100 years combined). The winners of the extreme division are expected to complete the course in approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, while the fastest team in the Adventure division is likely to finish in around one hour less. “As we offer 2 divisions, the race is really accessible to everyone,” says Henkens. AMA strives to promote the sport for youngsters in Thailand and in order to make it a festive event and involve the Samui communities, they will also offer fun runs for all in parallel to the Adventure Race. This combination proved very successful last year with more than 450 runners taking part. All Samui schools have been invited and children and families are warmly welcome to participate in this unique event that promises to be one of the highlights of an active weekend. This fun run will raise participant’s numbers and create a festive, sporty and friendly atmosphere throughout the day.

Racing green As the Adventure Race is also eco-friendly by nature, the organisers, Active Management Asia, are keen to promote both wonder and awareness of our environment. Part of the aim is to encourage the upkeep and accessibility of nature for all to enjoy. The competitors in Adventure Racing are generally affluent, young urban consumers with a keen sense of adventure when it comes to trying new products and experiences. They have varied interests and their high

disposable incomes give them the means to keep up with their sports, hobbies and travel. The Koh Samui Trophy is therefore a valuable way to promote Koh Samui as a healthy destination, as well as to highlight the island’s natural beauty and appeal to people who will pass on the experience to their friends and colleagues. The local government and tourist organisations are providing their full support to this annual event and hope to see it grow into one of the region’s top new sporting occasions. For more information on Adventure races visit http://ama-events.com

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Green File

Alternative Energy through Biogasification

Biomass gasification is a century old technology, but it is increasingly viewed today as a practical alternative to conventional fuel. In the gasification process, wood, charcoal and other biomass materials are gasified to produce so called ´producer gas´ for power or electricity generation. A gasification system basically consists of a gasifier unit, purification system and energy converters - burner or engine. The history of gasification dates back to the seventeenth century but since the turn of the century the concept has passed through several phases of development. From 1901 to 1920, many gasifierengine systems were sold and used for power and electricity generation. In the 1930s, Nazi Germany actually accelerated efforts to convert vehicles to gas driven engines as part of a plan for national security and independence from imported oil. The British and French Governments also felt that automotive charcoal gas products were more suitable for their colonies where the supply of gasoline was scarce and wood that could produce charcoal was readily available. In 1939, some 250,000 vehicles were registered in Sweden and out of them around 90 % were converted to gas driven engines. Almost all of the country’s 20,000 tractors operated on biogas with 40 % of the fuel used being wood and the remainder charcoal. After the second world war, with plentiful gasoline and diesel available at low cost, gasificaton technology fell from grace and slowly became a ‘forgotten technology’. Many governments in Europe felt that the consumption of wood wood damage 134

the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forests, creating environmental problems, but after the 1970s, there was renewed interest in the technology for power generation on a smaller scale. Since then, research has concentrated on using fuels other than wood and charcoal. Important applications Gasifiers, when integrated with engines, can also provide mechanical power and be used for running automobiles and many types of machinery. The use of downdraft gasifiers fueled with wood or charcoal to power cars, lorries, buses, trains, boats and ships has already been proven. Before and during second world war, gasifiers were widely used to power vehicles. In fact, many of the gasoline and diesel driven vehicles during this period were actually converted to gasification drives. Rural areas in many developing countries are characterized by widely dispersed populations and a lack of infrastructure . Energy is the basic way to improve the living standards and productivity of the population. Energy is required in every household for lighting and running electrical equipment. Energy is also used in agriculture for operating irrigation pumps and other essential machinery. A gasifier-engine system, when combined with a generator, provides electrical energy for lighting, and other household purposes. Small scale gasifier systems of 10-30 kw are therefore appropriate for multitudes of village applications in developing countries. Reseach shows that compared to gasifiers fueled with wood or agricultural residues, charcoal gasifiers present less operational problems and are therefore the most suitable for village level applications. Micro scale gasification systems of 1-10 kw can be used by small and medium farmers to power irrigation system. The equipment is small, cheap, simple and transportable. If firewood is available in sufficient amounts, without any danger to the forest, gasifiers can serve as an essential option for energy supply in remote areas. Concern for the conservation of forests means gasification is not yet seen as universally applicable technology. However, as an integral component within a range of other regenerative energies. It can be a valuable supplement to wind, solar and hydropower. This is the first of a two part feature. For more information please contact: Ecomate Company Limited 083-6378700 Email: info@ecomate.co.th www.ecomate.co.th

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Island Life

Helping Children with Special Needs The Samui Learning Centre for Special Needs recently moved to a new location at the Maya Buri Resort in Bangrak. The centre’s mission is to stimulate development for children with special needs and prepare them to join society with the ability to interact with their peers, training the children to live happily as an important part of society. Samui Learning Centre for Special Needs was established by Mrs. Dalin Reuang Isoon, providing a learning centre on Koh Samui for children who suffer from neurological or developmental difficulties, such as brain disorders or autism. With financial assistance from the Koh Samui municipality, the Centre has been able to provide therapy and support to children with special needs free of charge, since opening its doors in March of 2009. The centre has achieved noticeable improvements in a number of autistic children. Once they are more developed and receptive to standard learning processes, they are even able rejoin the normal systematic educational system. During their time at the centre, the children’s basic knowledge increases and they learn to recognize colours, geometric shapes, Thai and English alphabets, as well as developing their written communication skills The centre welcomes donations of any kind, whether they be clothes, books, or financial help. If you or your organization wishes to help make a difference to these children’s lives, please contact the Centre Manager Khun Karaket at phone number +66 (0)85-886-5340.

Thai Navy sinks ship off Koh Tao In late June, the The Thai navy sank one of its own vessels off Koh Tao to provide an artificial reef and wreck diving site. The HTMS Sattakut was originally owned by the US Navy and during World War II participated in the assault and occupation of Iwo Jima and Okinawa, Japan in 1945. The PTT environmental group worked closely with the ‘Save Koh Tao’ organisation and a number of Marine Biologists that work on the island to identify the best location to sink the large decommissioned Thai Naval Vessel. The ship lies at a depth accessible to all divers and will hopefully take some of the pressure off Koh Tao’s crowded, natural dive sites, which are being threatened by over diving. The vessel had all pollutants and toxic substances removed prior to the , sinking and any entrapment or entanglement issues were carefully reviewed and solved.

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Fairways, Fair Play The first of its kind on Koh Samui, Fairways is an action-packed indoor adventure playground custom designed for soft play. In this 320-squaremetre Jungle Book-themed venue, just about every surface is soft, bouncy and brightly coloured. There are bridges, aerial runways, a ball pool, slides, swings and two bouncy castles-- everything children need to enjoy freestyle creative play in a safe indoor environment. Soft Play World at Fairways is now open seven days a week, 10am-7pm, and located right by Samui’s Airport Arrivals’ Terminal. The gigantic centre is fully air conditioned, making it a fantastic activity whatever the weather. Children aged eight years and under pay just 100 Baht to play all day. Fairways is fully supervised and you can call ahead for child-minding services. Little ones can also meet old friends and make new ones in the dedicated playroom on the ground floor. For families looking to make a day of it, Fairways has a smart air-conditioned café with a tasty all-day menu, and a wide variety of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, including freshly brewed Mokador coffee. While the kids play upstairs, parents can sit back and relax or hook up to the free wi-fi. Fairways is proving a popular place to host a party or event – and not just with kids. You can book the whole venue or just a part of it, and Fairways can provide all the extras, whether you need conference tables and a projector, a sound system and laser lights or a birthday buffet, banners and balloons. How to find Fairways? From Chaweng, follow signs to the airport and you’ll find the play centre on your left, 50 metres before Airport Arrivals on Thanon Sanam Bin (Airport Road). Tel (0) 89 8673844. www.fairwayssamui.com 137

Homes Directory

PROPERTY DEVELOPERS/ ESTATE AGENTS ADVANCE INTER DEVELOPMENTS 077 231 625 ADVANTAGE PROPERTY 081 8926 372 AMANDARA CONDOMINIUM 077 349 184 AMERA KOH SAMUI BY SAWADEE GROUP 084 745 0720 ANGTHONG APARTMENTS 077 430 326 AQUALINA SAMUI 0843224680 ARTRIUM SUITES 087 607 6078 BAAN FAA SAI BY ANGTHONG HILLS 086 256 555 BAAN RAK TALAY 077 430 326 BAMBUH 086 061 4280 BANGPOR VILLA 081 341 4755 BAN SWEET COCONUT 089 500 9800 BEACH REPUBLIC 089 011 9538 CD&P 081 924 9574 CHAWENG SILA 077 430 779 COUNTRYSIDE PROPERTY 089 866 2062 DD EVOLUTION 077 960 927 DHEVATARA PROPERTY 077 430 326 DREAMCOAST DEVELOPMENTS 081 082 9355 DREAM PROPERTY 077 245 869 ECO REAL ESTATE ASIA 077 960 991 EXOTIQ REAL ESTATE 077 230 688 FIRST CHOICE PROPERTY 081 893 8521 FLAMINGO RESIDENCE 084 308 0967 FUNCTION HOMES 077 430 540 GREEN CORE 077 377 018 HALCYON SAMUI PROPERTIES 089 971 7194 HORIZON HOMES 077 417 005 IN ASIA 077 448 078 INFINITY 089 587 7997 IPM SAMUI 081 894 4093 KOH SAMUI LAND & HOME 089 474 1837 KARMA SAMUI 077 413 901 KOHABITAT PROPERTY 077 430 399 KOH PHANGAN HOLIDAY HOMES 087 898 3918 KOH SAMUI PROPERTY 077 230 606 KP PROPERTY 077 377 018 KALARA INTERNATIONAL PROPERTIES 077 246 100 KIRIKAYAN 077 247 867 LAAN DARA SAMUI 077 414 204 LOTUS TERRACES 089 972 3043 MANDALAY GARDEN 080523 4488 MANGROVE VILLA 081 374 0014 MINI GOLF 081 787 9148 NARESH 077 426 944 OCEAN 11 BEACH FRONT RESIDENCE 089 813 5715 PALM CREEK RESIDENCE 081 374 00414 PALM GROUP ASIA 080 535 1725 PLAI LAEM VILLAS 085 782 4910 PEARL PROPERTY 081 370 2480 PHATHONG RESIDENCE 089 813 5715 PLANTATION HEIGHTS 077 234 203 PLATINUM ASIA PROPERTIES 086 271 3800 PLAY AT SAMUI 077 448 201-2 PLUMERIA PLACE 077 430 043 PROJECT PARTNER PROPERTIES 077 248 300 RENT SAMUI.COM 077 430 399 ROYAL SAMUI HEIGHTS 077 414 222 SAMRAN GARDENS 089 474 1837 SAMUI PHANGNAN PROPERTIES 081 979 0679 SAMUI QUICK SALE 081 082 4030 SAMUI SANCTUARY 084 689 7081 SAMUI ESCAPES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 077 245 136 SAMUI VILLAS & HOMES 077 430 326 SAGE LAND & HOUSE 089 016 9750 SAMUI BEACH VILLAGE 077 430 326

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SAMUI DIAMOND PROPERTIES SHAMBALA SIAM IMMO COMPANY SINTHORANEE PROPERTY RENT SAMUI ROYAL NATURE RESORT & SPA TALING NGAM TROPICAL VILLA THAI PROPERTY THAILAND RETREATS THE EMERALD THONGSON THE MANDALAY VILLAS THE PLACE THE PHUFAR RESIDENCE THE POOL APARTMENTS THE ROYAL MOUNTAIN THE SEA KOH SAMUI THONG NAI PAN ESTATE TIC TROPICAL HOME VILLA SOPHIA & VILLA COCONUT WHITE HOUSE WOW PROPERTIES X2 RESIDENCES YUM YUM HOUSE

087 895 4132 077 236 632 081 850 6475 077 414 222 077 430 399 089 0169 750 089 651 0302 086 948 443 077 427 774 081 893 5996 085797 0477 077 430 410 0815359100 081 683 4592 081 956 1636 077 961 982 083 391 8159 077 247 710 082 179 3933 087 823 7371 081 866 3065 081 079 2642 082 495 2525 084 746 2057

LEGAL SERVICES LIMCHAROEN HUGHES & GLANVILLE BIG BUSINESS BLUMENTHAL RICHTER & SUMET CHARNDELL DISPUTE MANAGEMENT IPM SAMUI DFDL MEKONG (MCEVILY & COLLINS) MANIT ASSOCIATES NAT ACCOUNTING NAI ANDREW PARK NSP & LAWS FIRM SUKHOTHAI INTER LAW VITTAYA BUSINESS LAW OFFICE WONDERFUL SERVICES

077 246 185 077 413 764 077 231 732 02 514 9170 081 894 4093 077 484 510 077 458 135 077 246 249 081 830 4462 077 458 204 077 430 642 077 484 470 081 086 5141

LIGHTING SYSTEMS CREATIVE SYSTEM PROJECTS FIBER OPTICS JMAN LTEK LED-LIGHTING KUNINI: FUTRONIX HOME & DECOR

080 698 6811 077 448 077 081 893 5996 077 230 839

AMBERELY FURNITURE BEAUTIFUL WORLD CERA ETERNAL FLAME ORIENTAL LIVING SALAK THAI SEASIDE DÉCOR SURAT BAANSAUY

077 430 329 081 956 0337 077 247 805 089 772 1589 077 247 675 077 234 368 083 390 3711 081 691 1719

SECURITY SYSTEMS B-SMART SYSTEMS CREATIVE SYSTEM PROJECTS KUNINI IHOMES

077 248 362 080 698 6811 077 230 839 081 170 0201

AUDIO VISUAL INTERIOR DESIGN AV INSTALLATION SYSTEM AVIVA CREATIVE SYSTEM PROJECTS TECHWORX PROJECTS

ENGINEERING SERVICES 089 971 5775 02 685 3676 080 698 6811 077 961 910

GARDEN & LANDSCAPE BOTANICAL DESIGNS LANDSCAPING HELICONIA LANDSCAPE GARDEN MAYAN LANDSCAPING KITCHEN HARDWARE FRANKE KITCHENS H.A.FELE IKON KITCHEN I.P.M. SAMUI KITCHEN STUDIO RS VENTURE

084 315 9742 081 090 5489 087 895 6396

02 236 9777 077 423 073 089 972 2789 081 894 4093 077 423 073 02 662 3571-3

SWIMMING POOLS CP POOL DES JOYAUX JD POOLS PURA POOLS SIAM POOLS TSP POOLS

077 430 034 077 247 588 077 427 356 077 960 565 077 602 444 077 234034

DESIGN SERVICES 3D ARCHITECT ARCHITECTUAL VISUALISATIONS ARCHVIZ ASIA BOTANICAL DESIGNS LANDSCAPING FIRST CHOICE ARCHITECTURE LIGHTHOUSE CREATIVE DESIGN MEEPAIN DESIGN OPEN DESIGNER SAMUI GRAPEVINE SIL ARCHITECTS

077 238 962 077 247 862 080 620 9964 084 315 9742 081 893 8521 077 458 247 089 161 5947 089 890 4960 080 620 9964 083 690 9700

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRONOS DYNAMICS CLAUDIO / FANTASYATWORK.COM ORIENTAL LIVING

081 894 4513 087 270 4972 077 247 675

HOME SERVICES AUTOMATIC GATE CERIS LAFARGE ROOFING ECO PEST CONTROL ECOMATE ELECTRIC FENCE EUROPEAN RAIN GUTTERING EZ DOCK (THAILAND) FAR THAWEE PORN INFINITY HOME MANAGEMENT JOHNSON HEALTH TECH NITE STONE SAMUI MASTER WATER SEARA SPORTS SUNFLEX ASIA THE STONE DOCTOR UNIVERSE LOGISTICS

081 892 1066 02 586 5600 085 791 2496 083 637 8700 089-733-3672 077 423 073 077 426 955 077 245 570-1 077 426 608 076 304 040 077 247 769 077 427 726 076 355 040 077 414 412 087 282 4930 086 344 4989

EASTERN TECHNICAL ENGINEERING

077 295 316

FINANCE SERVICE GFS AUSTRALASIA

080 535 1725

INSURANCE SERVICES CT TRADING INSURANCE ENSURE ASIA 015

038 420 618 077 417

PROJECT MANAGEMENT DMA PROJECT SOLUTIONS RS BUILT SIL ARCHITECTS STERLING PROJECT MANAGEMENT TRI ASIA PACIFIC (THAILAND) CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

085 790 1520 089 724 8511 086 271 0156 083 690 9700 077 430 303 02 686 3413

BLUE BUILDING EXIM STUDIO HAPPY ELEPHANT PALM CONSTRUCTION P&W CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT RS BUILT SAMUI VILLAS & HOMES SEA B.C. TROPICAL BUILDERS

077 430 411 02 934 7921 077 422 651 077 425 548 077 238 182 086 271 0156 077 430 326 077 960584 077 602 262

MAINTENANCE SERVICE MANAGING SAMUI SQUEAKY CLEAN WINDOWS

077 430 010 087 013 7650

OTHER BANGKOK AIR WAYS 077 422 512-9 BLUECHIP INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 089 651 0020 FIREWORKS SAMUI 087 263 4371 SAMUI RESCUE 077 421 444/087 263 4371 TESCO LOTUS 077 245 400 TS-TEAK 081 893 4933 LEISURE SAMUI 100 DEGREE EAST DIVE CENTER 077 245 396 BAAN TALING NGAM RESORT & SPA 077 429 100 BBC CAFÉ 077 425 089 BLUEWATER INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL 077 484 548 DANCING CRAB 077 425 519 HAVELI INDIAN CUISINE 082 8183 416/417 HARLEY DAVIDSON BANGKOK 02 934 4855 IDIVE THAILAND 077 484 737 KUDOS RESTAURANT 081 895 0734 MAGNOLIA SPA 077 601 133 MAX’S MURPHY 077 413 614 OCEAN 11 BEACH FRONT RESTAURANT 077 245 134 OCEANS ELITE CHARTERS 077 427 244 PAUL ROPP SAMUI 086 270 3060 SEA BREEZE RESTAURANT 077 245 255 SENSEDAYSPA 077 246 295

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BBC Restaurant /

ร้านอาหาร บีบีซี

The Best Sunset Restaurant on Koh Samui Big Buddha Beach

Tel : 077 - 425089 www.bbcrestaurant.com

LED

LIGHT

ARCHITECTURE

JMan Ltek Co Ltd Mobile: +66 (o) 8 1893 5996 Email: ltek@jman-marina.com 8/59 Moo 5 Bophut Koh Samui 84320 Thailand

2 OCEANFRONT LOTS F o r s a l e o n To n g S o n B a y

• 2 CHANOTE LOTS WITH A TOTAL OF 66 METERS OF OCEANFRONTAGE • CAN BE SOLD SEPARATELY OR TOGETHER • LOT “A” IS 0.50 RAI = 15 MILLION BAHT • LOT “B” IS 0.65 RAI = 15 MILLION BAHT • ALREADY HAS PAVED ROAD AND UNDERGROUND UTILITIES • DIRECT ACCESS TO WHITE SAND BEACH • 2 SETS OF COMPLETED HOUSE PLANS AVAILABLE . BEST LOCATION ON THE BEACH IN SAMUI

CONTACT KHUN MICHAEL THAI TELEPHONE: 08 4707 6396 US TELEPHONE: +1 (808) 870 - 1800 E-MAIL: baskindesign@gmail.com

BANGPO SOI 4 : LAND FOR SALE : 800 METERS FROM THE BEACH FANTASTIC PANORAMIC SEA VIEW 2 RAI 295w2 = 4.380 m2 SUITABLE FOR HOLLYWOOD STAR MANSION, HOTEL, VILLA PROJECT, CONDOMINIUM CONCRETE ROAD, GENTLE SLOPE. ONLY : 17.500.000 baht

BANGPO SOI 1 : 5 PLOTS 0F LAND FOR SALE 2 PLOTS WITH SEAVIEW 800 METERS FROM THE BEACH

PLOT 1 SEAVIEW : 162 w2 = 648 m2 = 2.150.000 PLOT 2 SEAVIEW : 184 w2 = 736 m2 = 2.100.000 PLOT 3 HILL VIEW 146 w2 = 584 m2 = 1.450.000 PLOT 4 HILL VIEW 167 w2 = 668 m2 = 1.650.000 PLOT 5 HILL VIEW 330 w2 = 1.320 m2 = 2.900.000 CONCRETE ROAD, ALL PLOTS HAVE WATER AND ELECTRICITY. TRANSFER FEES INCLUDED

baht baht baht baht baht

CONTACT : siam-immo@hotmail.com www.siam-immo.com TEL : (66) 081 850 6475

BANGRAK : CHARMING 4 BEDROOMS HOUSE FOR SALE :

8.900.000 baht

A stunning 4 bedroom villa perfectly located in Bang Rak. Built to European standards with luxurious finishing’s throughout. Private pool within beautiful landscaped gardens and a well appointed terrace for outdoor entertaining. A sumptuous master suite with private terrace for that truly luxurious feel. Two well thought out guest bedrooms privately contained with pool/garden views. A “ must-see” villa at an incredible price!

CONTACT : siam-immo@hotmail.com www.siam-immo.com TEL : (66) 081 850 6475

Why EZ Dock ?

EZ Dock Floating Dock System

BENEFITS: Versatile modular design Variety of Dock anchoring options Strength and flexibility Safe, Slip resistant Dock surface A Secure, Stable Mooring and Boarding System Aluminum Fixed Piers Railing varieties Variety of ladders Roof Systems Utility Stands

Contact: EZ DOCK (THAILAND) CO., LTD (South East Asia Distributor)

Koh Samui Office: Khun Wicha/Khun Thip 159/6 Moo 1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: (+66 77)426 955 Fax: (+66 77)426 954

Residential / Property Development / Hotels / Resorts / Marinas Whether you have a lakeside cottage, Oceanfront Property or are involved with a homeowners association, EZ Dock can create a Dock System tailored for your needs.

EZ Dock is an ISO certified Company that uses Stateof-the-Art engineering and manufacturing process to develop and deliver the highest quality dock products in the industry. EZ Dock’s designs utilize our patented hollow sections that eliminate the use of foam for floatation. Choose from many different sizes and shapes to get the exact dock configuration you desire. The patented EZ Dock system makes it a snap to install. Just lay out the sections, bolt couplers in place, and tighten down the bolts.

Shade & Swimming pool system

The beige color makes our docks more attractive, and helps them blend with the natural surroundings-but most importantly, it is cooler to the touch. EZ Dock’s patented flotation design creates suction and compression to increase stability. When you walk on a EZ Dock, you will immediately notice the difference, It’s not just floating, it’s actually creating stability by using the patented hollow chambers on the underside. The patented connection couplers allow the sections to move independently under high-stress conditions, while still providing unified firmness. EZ Dock’s polyethylene construction provides outstanding modularity, superb buoyancy, functionality, and safety. That makes for an extremely versatile dock system.

Appication for your Dock of Tomorrow

EZ Dock Koh samui Gurich Resort & Spa

Conrad Hotels & Resort