Samui Phangan Real Estate Magazine June / July 09

SAMUI-PHANGAN The Definitive Guide to Samui & Phangan Real Estate

Real Estate June / July 2009 | ISSN 1686-8838

Legal Information Now in Chinese

Ё᭛⠜⊩ᕟ䌘䆃 Glass Half Empty?

Surviving the credit crunch

To the Rescue

Samui volunteer services Developers Real Estate Agencies Holiday Villas Construction Swimming Pools Kitchens Interiors Landscaping Legal Information

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IN THE NEWS

Child Protection Agreement Samui Villas and Homes Co., Ltd. (SVH) and Phuket Villas & Homes Co., Ltd. (PVH), recently signed an agreement with Mr. Pravit Ekcharoensook, the head of ECPAT (End Child Prostitution Child Pornography and Trafficking of Children for Sexual Purposes), an organization that works to protect children in the travel and tourism industry.

An official signing ceremony took place at Dhevatara Residence, Koh Samui on Friday 17th of April attended by members of both organizations, as well as the head of the Samui Municipality and the island's police chief.

As part of the agreement, SVH and PVH will implement training regarding The Code of Conduct for the Protection of Children from Sexual Exploitation in Travel and Tourism. The company will also take action for the successful implementation of the code as an integrated part of its daily operations.

The 8th Samui International Yacht Regatta

With a new title sponsor and now known as the Sawadee.com Regatta 2009, Samui. the island's 8th International Regatta takes place from the 1st-6th June. A popular event for both competitive and social sailors, the five-day regatta is one of Asia’s leading sailing events and is also part of the Asian Yachting Grand Prix Championships. Entries will include boats from Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai and further a field.

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The regatta is also about parties and already established as ‘must attend’ event on the international sailing circuit. As in previous years, the headquarters will be at the Centara Grand Beach Resort, which has been the home of the regatta since its conception and helps with organization and entertainment, playing host to a spectacular Gala Dinner and prize-giving event..

“Every year the regatta has gone from strength to strength and we’re really looking forward to a memorable 2009 event." said Callum Laing, Chairman of the Regatta for the second year. "In 2008 we welcomed over 300 participants from 10 countries and registrations received so far point toward the biggest Samui Regatta to date."

The 2009 regatta will also include opportunities for individuals, families and groups to join-in on one of the spectator boats and follow the races up close whilst enjoying famous Thai hospitality.

Infinity Samui Remains Confident In the face of the current economic downturn around the world, many prospective buyers are assessing potential risks, particularly looking at whether the slowdown will lead to forced sales and capital value reduction.

According to Infinity Samui, at present the economic conditions have had minimal impact on their property values. The current credit crunch is less severe than during the Asian financial crisis in 1997, where developers’ debt-to-equity ratio was too high and their investments were leveraged at only 20-30%.

By contrast, current leverage figures indicate a 50-60% level. What's more, as Infinity Samui is positioned in a cash-buyer market, the risk of forced sales is eliminated and hence the prices are not affected adversely.

"Presently our property prices remain stable." said a spokesperson from the developer. "The 2008 / 2009 high season has seen a healthy number of prospective buyers looking to buy and continued interests in Infinity Samui. The only negative impact is a slowdown in the decision-making process of potential buyers. We, as the developer of InfintySamui, are in a strong position to build and deliver the project to the market as scheduled".

The company believes that a shortage of luxury properties, combined with growing investment demand means buyers at Infinity Samui will enjoy unique capital gain potential upon resale.

As one of the only high end projects scheduled for completion in 2010. Infinity Samui will be well positioned when the global economy is expected to pick up.

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MARKET UPDATE

Are Prices Going

Higher or Lower?

By Rodney Waller

Several articles have appeared recently in the press trying to predict the future direction of property values for Thailand resort markets. Some commentators believe prices will fall 30% in line with other property markets, such as Hong Kong. Other commentators believe prices have already hit the bottom and it is just a question of when prices will rise again. Who is right?

The answer is, it depends. Property prices depend on the individual circumstances of the seller, especially so in Thai resort markets where there is a general absence of mortgage financing and purchases have been with cash. For example, if a plot of beach land in Koh Samui has been in a Thai owner’s family for generations and he is not desperate for money, and if a neighbouring plot sold for 20 million Baht (US$ 575,000) per Rai last year, he will want 22 million Baht (US$ 630,000) per Rai, regardless of what is happening in the global economy, and will just hold out until someone is willing to pay it. On the other hand, if a British expat was asking 20 million for his villa last year and desperately needs cash to cover failed investments in the UK, he is likely to be motivated to accept 14 million Baht (US$ 400,000) (which would incidentally be a 30% reduction).

So have property values dropped 30% in the Samui market? The answer is No. With the exception of cases where there are 'motivated sellers.' While many market commentators would prefer to think in simplistic terms, there is not a clean, consistent market-wide drop in prices. Prices depend on individual circumstances. This is how we must look at the market. Instead of painting it with a broad brush, we need to understand the market on a deal-by-deal basis.

As with the majority of property markets worldwide, recent buying activity in Thai resort markets, including Samui, has been low due to the global recession. There are investors and retail buyers looking around but they are expecting bargains. And 'completed' bargains, as opposed to 'off-plan' bargains.

The question is, what is a ‘Bargain?’ How does a buyer recognise a bargain? A villa that was listed on the market for 30 million Baht last year and has an asking price of 15

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million Baht this year does not necessarily mean it is now a bargain. Last year's price could have been simply plucked out of the air, based on irrational optimism. This is where independent valuations become crucially important to determine 'market value.' A bargain is presumably a property priced below market value. So how does a valuation determine the market value of a property?

Valuations are fundamentally based on an informal combination of a 'bricks and mortar' calculation and comparisons, with far greater emphasis placed on the latter. A bricks and mortar calculation - determining the construction cost and land value - basically gives you a 'book' value. Market value, however, is more concerned with comparisons or comparables with other recent property transactions for similar properties in similar areas, and inherently reflects the prevailing market sentiment. With the current property market in Samui herein lays the problem. In the present 'recession' market, with such a low number of transactions, it is difficult to identify a sufficient number of comparable recent transactions to be able to accurately estimate a market value.

In a more transparent market, with readily available and reliable transactional information, together with a steady flow of transactions, market prices can be quickly assessed in relation to other similar transactions. If an apartment next door sold last week for US$ 3,000 per square metre, it is quite easy to estimate the value of your apartment. In Samui, first, it is difficult to get reliable information related to property transactions, and secondly, in the current market most property agents would consider themselves lucky to complete one or two sales of disparate land or properties each month. Thus reliable market comparables just don't exist. There are not enough transactions to note a trend or that can be extrapolated to use as a predictive market tool.

In summary, with prices being largely dependent on the individual circumstances of the seller, villas are worth precisely what buyers are prepared to pay. It is a case of "every buyer for himself".

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LEGAL UPDATE

ARBITRATION: CHOOSING THE ARBITRATOR(S) Probably one of the most important decisions Parties involved in arbitration will make is the choice of the number of arbitrators and the qualifications of the arbitrators which can be recorded in the arbitration agreement. This is an advantage arbitration has when compared to litigation and may have a serious cost or time impact on the arbitration and the eventual outcome of the arbitration. It is less expensive to have one arbitrator than three arbitrators and it is less time consuming to coordinate meetings etc. with one arbitrator than three arbitrators. By choosing arbitrators familiar with the subject matter of the dispute they should be in a better position to understand and determine the dispute more quickly.

Where the Parties do not specify the number of arbitrators in the arbitration agreement this would normally be determined by the reference to the chosen arbitration rules or the law chosen to govern the arbitration. Normally the number of arbitrator would be one or three to avoid a deadlock situation where no majority decision could be made.

The Parties are normally free to determine the qualifications of the arbitrators, e.g. nationality, years of experience, what profession he is to come from etc., but these qualifications may also be determined by the chosen arbitration rules and the law chosen to govern the arbitration. An overriding qualification required by all arbitration rules and laws is that the arbitrators must be impartial and independent of the Parties and nominated arbitrators are normally required to make a written statement to this effect. Where an arbitrator is partial and/or lacks independence this would normally be grounds for the removal of an arbitrator.

Generally where there is one arbitrator to be appointed the Parties are to jointly agree on the arbitrator. Where there are three arbitrators each party will appoint a co-arbitrator and the two co-arbitrators will then jointly agree on the third arbitrator. Most arbitral rules provide default provisions for the appointment of the sole arbitrator, a co-arbitrator or the third arbitrator by an arbitral institution where this cannot be agreed upon by the Parties or co-arbitrators.

Where there are no default provisions for the appointment of arbitrators the Parties may have to apply to a court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of the arbitrator which may be time consuming in some jurisdictions. The Parties have very little influence on the appointment of arbitrators made by arbitral institutions or the courts.

Conclusion Wherever possible it is recommended the Parties specify both the number and qualifications of the arbitrators to be appointed in the arbitration agreement failing which these matters may be determined by the chosen arbitral rules or law governing the arbitration of which the parties may have limited knowledge. Where no default appointing body is named in the arbitration rules a default appointing body should also be specified in the arbitration agreement to avoid having to refer to local courts for the appointment of an arbitrator. Wherever possible the Parties should agree on the appointment of the arbitrators as generally this is preferable to having the arbitrators appointed by an appointing institution or a local court over which the Parties would have limited influence. Despite the temptation to a appoint ‘a friend’ to be an arbitrator expecting him to fight your cause it would be unwise to do so as this could result in his removal and disruption of the arbitration proceedings.

For more information of arbitration and dispute management contact the offices of Charndell 02 514 9170 to 71 vsmith@charndell.com www.charndell.com

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LEGAL UPDATE

UNDERSTANDING THE IMPORTANCE OF GOOD MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS IN REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS In property transactions involving “Off-Plan” managed developments, the investor’s attention is understandably focused upon the key terms of the deal such as price, payment terms, unit and project specifications and anticipated completion dates. Often the developer’s proposals for the future management of the development are either overlooked or not scrutinized with the same diligence by investors. Poorly conceived management arrangements can have a serious, adverse impact upon the future value of real estate assets and the desirability of the property to future buyers in the mid to long term. Christian Glanville, Partner in the law firm Limcharoen, Hughes & Glanville (Samui) examines the importance of good management principles in managed developments in Koh Samui and Koh Phangan and identifies steps that can be taken by investors to improve the framework for the future management of their property investment.

Whilst investors into condominium projects are afforded certain statutory protections with regards to future management arrangements under the Condominium Acts, investors into freehold or leasehold projects do not enjoy the same protections. For such investors the terms of the proposed management arrangements should be set out in a draft Management Contract provided by the developer. This is paramount to the long term success of the development.

The Management Contract usually contains an estimated monthly maintenance fee for the provision of management services which is usually expressed as being proportionate to each per square metre of living space or common area, or a combination of the ratio between the two. The investor should raise enquiries of the developer to establish how the estimated maintenance fee has been determined and, as far as possible, whether or not the management services can be provided to the relevant standard for the maintenance fees stipulated. If the maintenance fees are set too low, there will not be sufficient funds to maintain the buildings and common areas and the development will begin to look worn and neglected. This in turn will adversely affect the re-sale and rental value and of course, the owners enjoyment of the property.

The Management Contract should also include a provision allowing the service provider to increase the maintenance fees from time to time in response to the increasing costs of providing the services (including salary increases, insurance premiums and inflationary pressures). However, there should be clear restrictions upon the level of any increases in the maintenance fees set by the service provider.

This can be achieved by limiting any increase in maintenance fees to a specific percentile increase each 11

year, or restricting increases in maintenance fees to no more than the Consumer Price Index. The service provider should be required to be transparent about the costs of providing the services and be contractually obliged to provide audited accounts in each financial year setting out how the maintenance fees have been utilized in the preceding year. The Investor should understand and appreciate, however, that the service provider is providing the services for a profit and that the margins are actually not that high in comparison to other real estate segment activities.

The services provided under the Management Contract should always reflect the actual development’s facilities as opposed to being a standard non-applicable list. For example, if the development includes landscaped gardens and a communal swimming pool, the scope of services provided under the Management Agreement should include gardening services and pool cleaning services. Investors should note that silence in the Management Contract with regards to a particular service, usually means that the service will not be provided as part of the maintenance fees.

There should also be provisions relating not only to the type of services to be provided but also the scope of those services. For example, a provision in the Management Contract that 24 hour security is to be provided should clearly set out the scope of those services such as detail of CCTV, alarms, number of security guards on duty and regular inspections of the development.

Maintenance of a sinking fund by the service provider on behalf of the owners to finance expensive repairs which will arise from time to time should also be provided for in the Management Contract.

Without a sinking fund, the financing of major works will be slow and the enjoyment of the property could be severely restricted if parts of the development, for example elevators, are out of order for long periods of time due to lack of sufficient funds to effect urgent repairs.

The Management Contract should include clear sanctions against the service provider in the event that the service provider (without reasonable cause) fails to provide any of the services; or alternatively, fails to provide the services to a sufficient standard. The Management Agreement should provide a mechanism whereby the owners collectively can take over the management of the development or alternative nominate a new manager to provide the management services in the event that the service provider fails to deliver a service of a satisfactory standard.

In summary, the proposed management arrangements offered by a project are of considerable importance and must be carefully scrutinised to ensure that the correct framework will be in place to ensure the effective management of the development from completion. The terms of the Management Contract should be considered in detail by the investor and the terms negotiated and agreed with the developer prior to any financial commitment being made to the development by the investor.

This article was written by Christian Glanville, Partner of Belmont Limcharoen (Samui)) for further information, please contact our Koh Samui offices on 07 6342 – 882-4 or e-mail Christian@Limcharoen.comOther offices located in Bangkok, Phuket and Ho Chi Minh City.

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CONTENTS Living on Koh Samui & Koh Phangan 34 35 38 132 133 134

Koh Samui Map Living on Koh Samui Personal Profile: Mr. Gerd Wenderoth Koh Phangan Map Living on Koh Phangan Phangan Scene

Island Life

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6 62 112 146 148 150

In The News Main Feature: Credit Crunch Smart Samui: Blue Water International School Expo: Samui Rescue Green File: Recycling Island Life

House & Home Tips

148

36 104 106 108 110

Shopping Architect's Talk: Danger Termites Interior Tips: Home Office Garden Guide: Garden Living Home Maintenance: Home Safety Tips

Property

106

8 10 11 46 66 68 70

Market Update Arbitration Legal Update Developer Profile: “The Place” Building a Home Building Regulations Property Developments

Holiday Villas

59 Phathong Residence 157 The Park Samui: Tropiculture 159 Plumeria Place Residence

128 Villas Letting 129 Villas Letting Agents

Koh Phangan Developers and Estate Agents Legal Tips 130 Thong Naipan Estate 76 78 80 82 84 86 88

Land Title Deeds Tips for starting a new business: Tips for starting a new business: Tips for starting a new business: Tips for starting a new business: Tips for starting a new business: Visa and Work Permits

English Chinese German Russain French

Legal & Accounting Services

Home Directory

74 89 90 91 93 93

152 Home Directory

Financial Services

Koh Samui Developers and Estate Agents

92 GFS AUSTRALASIA

2 4 13 14 15 16 17 24 30 32 40 45 50 58

Insurance Service

Tropical Island Company: TIC CD&P Halcyon Samui Properties Samui Quick Sale Bambuh Infinity Samui Bophut Hill & Banyan Villas (Palm Construction) Samui Prestige Homes The Emerald Thongson Townhouse for sale Samui Villas & Homes Dhevatara Horizon Homes Ocean Residence

Belmont & Limcharoen McEvily&Collins Charndell Dispute Management Services FrontDoor 24 Project Planning & Supervision Thailand Law Online Big Business

94 Ensure Asia

Audio Visual Interior Design 114 TechWorx Projects

Graphic Design 142 Lighthouse Creative

CONTENTS Interior Design

Photography

96 100 114 116 156

98 Oriental Living 136 Fantasy@work

Oriental Living Surat Baansuy TechWorx Projects BMP System Furniture Eternal Flame

International School 160 Bluewater International School

Kitchen & Hardware Leisure Samui 116 BMP System Furniture 117 Kitchen Studio 118 Hafele

Sport Engineering

154 154 155 155 162

Haveli Indian Cuisine BBC CafĂŠ Sense Day Spa Sea Breeze Restaurant by: Secret Garden Oceans Elite Charters

124 Seara Sports

General Service Swimming Pools 126 CP Pools 127 Desjoyaux Pools

Security 122 B-Smart Systems

Construction & Project Management 17 72 73 91 102 60

Palm Construction Tri Asia Pacific(Thailand) DMA: Development Management Asia FrontDoor24 Project Planning & Supervision Advantage Contractor First Choice Construction: FCC

120 123 138 143 144 158

TS-teak European Rain Guttering Bangkok Airways Fireworks Shop Samui Green Eco 100 Degrees East Diving School

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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 latest issue of Samui Phangan Real Estate Magazine.

Samui's top business and lifestyle publication offers practical tips for investors and residents, and also includes profiles of the islands' leading projects, products and professionals.

Having survived a difficult first half to 2009, local businesses have already begun to re-position themselves and respond to new market trends. Prices have come down in many sectors and special promotions and offers abound. Economic challenges remain, but the islands' entrepreneurs still have the confidence to meet them.

In this issue we look at new trends emerging on Samui that contradict the common belief that austerity prevails. New concepts and marketing approaches are keeping Samui firmly on the tourism map, while also attracting an increasing number of new residents to the island. We also look at government projects and initiatives that will maintain Samui's appeal as an attractive residential and tourist destination in years to come.

Samui Phangan Real Estate Magazine is full of useful information, news and practical ideas that support the islands as they face new challenges and prepare for the push for success that lies ahead.

                     

บรรณาธิการ

Samui Prestige Homes The Place Town House

Samui Prestige Homes The Place Town House

Samui Prestige Homes The Place Town House Villas Exclusive agenta for Samui’s most Prestigious Beachfont Development

Samui Prestige Homes The Place Town House Villas Exclusive agenta for Samui’s most Prestigious Beachfont Development

Samui Prestige Homes The Place Town House Villas Exclusive agenta for Samui’s most Prestigious Beachfont Development

Samui Prestige Homes The Place Town House Villas Exclusive agenta for Samui’s most Prestigious Beachfont Development

The Emerald Tongson

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

0% Finance options available 8/10 Moo 5 Bophut Koh Samui 84320 Thailand

Townhouse in Bang Rak

SALE

Beautiful two bedroom townhouse in Ban Rak • • • • • • • • •

Great Location, close to all Island Amenities Master Bedroom with on suite bathroom Large Living Room and separate bathroom Kitchen Small Garden & car parking area All rooms air-conditioned 100m to the beach Government Water and Electric at normal rates Perfect for office, Home or both

For More Information Call: 08 1341 4755 32

Koh Samui Map Living on Samui Shopping Personal Profile Developer Profile

KOH SAMUI MAP

DMA Development Management

Bam Buh

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Living on Samui There is a fast growing expatriate community on Koh Samui, with people moving from Europe and beyond to escape the stresses of western life.

Thailand is known as one of the most welcoming countries in the world and as Koh Samui has developed over the years it has gradually begun to offer all the comforts of home, but in a tropical island location.

Living on Samui is easy; the island now offers a range of excellent locations for shopping, including two large, well stocked supermarkets: Tesco Lotus and Tops. In fact, with all the modern conveniences now available it's sometimes easy to forget you are in Thailand at all. New shopping malls and entertainment centres are on the way, and Western treats like good wine and imported food that foreign residents may have once missed, are now readily available.

People who live on Samui enjoy a vast choice for wining, dining and entertainment. Thai food of course abounds, and is both tasty and extremely good value. There is also a huge choice of international cuisine with everything from fine French cuisine to fast food chains. For those who like drinking and socializing, many Western style pubs and clubs not only serve local alcoholic drinks but also offer many favourite international brands. A number of bars also show live international sporting events, so it's possible to enjoy a cold beer in the sun whilst watching your favourite football team play in the cold wind and rain back home.

Of course Thailand wouldn't be the same without its people. It is mainly because of their friendly nature that foreign visitors keep coming back and end up living on Samui. Most local people speak a certain amount of English, which means that speaking Thai is not necessary, although life becomes much easier if you do make the effort. Don't expect tobe living an authentic Thai life though; around 80 percent of the population on the island is made up of visitors or expats.

Samui is fast becoming a comfortable, sophisticated haven in the sun, but it is also important to remember that there are significant cultural differences that may cause frustration. Local people enjoy a relaxed approach to life, and this can take some getting used to. As long as you are prepared to meet the local people half way, living on their tropical island can be a pleasure indeed.

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SHOPPING

Hanging Candle Holders set From Eternal Flame Tel: 089 772 1589

Oriental Aroma Candle Square size : 10x10x8.9H cm.

Oriental Aroma Candle Round size : Dia10x10 cm.

From Oriental Living Tel. 077 247 675

Beach Hammock / red wine color with Teak Wood Stand from Discount Store, Bo-phut call-086-6982499

If you have any new products to display in our magazine please contact Samui-Phangan magazine sales.

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Home control Panel: Elegantly replace all your remotes with touch screen Technology.

From TechWoeX Project Tel: 081 080 3773

Acrylic Painting ( Mother & Son) from Discount Store, Bo-phut call-086-6982499

Teak Dining Table Size: 2.5m.(l) x 1m.(w) Or Custom order to suit every need From: Kitchen Studio Tel: 077 423 073/ 081 893 4935

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PERSONAL PROFILE

KnowThe

House KnowThe Man

What is a house? Some would say a home, others would combine this with an investment opportunity. Others might proclaim their house to part of them, something they built up with their personal ideas and dreams. Rarely though, is a home a complete combination of all three.

One beautiful villa on the mountainside in Bang Po, built for a very well-known and successful litigation lawyer from the Koln area of South Germany, seems to reflect his every aspiration.

This stunning property sits on the side of the valley with unrestricted views over the ocean to Koh Phangan.

Approaching the villa, it is quickly apparent that something special is nestled between the surrounding houses, natural vegetation and trees. Passing the road, the large luxurious swimming pool catches the eye and straight away you notice that there appears to be a water slide from one of the rooms on the middle floor. This was definitely worth closer inspection and I was very pleased when Mr Gerd Wenderoth gave me the keys for a thorough walk through.

Mr Wenderoth is the German owner of Tropical Island Company and has been a resident on Samui for 8 years. He has been in charge of this villa and construction since the concept was first developed and the last beautiful pieces of designer furniture were installed after the build completion.

The villa itself has 502sqm of living space comprising of 3 bedrooms, all with luxury en-suite bathrooms, and a large living room with inside and outside areas. The kitchen and dining area features top of the range German smeg appliances.

Mr Gerd had arranged for his staff to open the villa for me and as I arrived it was wonderfully cool so I made myself comfortable in the living room with my laptop. I was still keen to find out about the mysterious water slide from the mid floor, so I made my way down the beautiful wooden staircase to the master bedroom. It was one of those "wow" moments on entering the room and I wasn’t quite sure what took my breath away first.

The tasteful four poster bed lays centre piece in the room with stunning views out over the water to Koh Phangan and into the room to one of the largest flat screen televisions I’ve ever seen.

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On the other side, an elegant Jacuzzi is waiting in the corner, while for those who still need a cooling off, the water slide starts from the master bedroom and drops right down to the pool.

Like the house itself, the whole room is stylishly furnished with stunning original paintings and Asian artifacts. It was a pleasure to sit behind the impressive teak desk that sits elegantly in the far side of the room in front of a substantial teak bookshelf. The room was beautiful and spacious but very obviously decorated by a professional interior designer. Just being there had a wonderful, calming effect with the natural light from outside and the amazing views. But I had to move on and I did not want to miss any of the other rooms.

The second bedroom was adjacent to the master bedroom so had access to the large balcony and water slide. Here, as the views were partially restricted, the owner had all the underside and roadside areas covered with natural stone features.

Every room seemed to have something special that reflected the owners' impeccable taste. The third bedroom was no exception, with its own private Japanese walkway leading around the outside of the house to the pool and outside sun areas.

I finished off writing my notes upstairs in the main living area where the views were fantastic from a height. As it was later in the day, I turned on the lights - 100 small halogen bulbs lit up the ceiling displaying a beautiful star-like effect. Everywhere I looked there was something unique and it was obvious that much attention had been given to detail and only the best materials had been used along with the finest components.

The living room boasted fine whiskeys on the shelf and the kitchen, only the best wines in two individual wine coolers, of course one for red and one for white. The kitchen, European of course, was all top of the range Smeg and the long dining table was set as if expecting some special guests for dinner with cut crystal wine glasses and decanters.

I spent a few hours in the relaxing atmosphere and quiet ambience of this luxury villa, enjoying it as if it was my own. The Villa is certainly a masterpiece of construction work and build quality. It shows how well an owner and his construction team can work together with design and quality to end up with the villa of your dreams.

For further information about this Luxury Villa and others or professional construction work please contact (German, English and Thai) Mr Gerd Wenderoth Tropical Island Company Tel +66(0) 77 247710, Fax +66(0) 77 247722, Mobile +66(0) 81 956 1636 info@artrium-thailand.com, www.artrium-thailand.com

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EXCLUSIVE PROPERTIES LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS Samui Villas & Homes is proud to announce the launch of Exclusive Properties as a new brand for our multi award winning Estate Agency division. Exclusive Properties has evolved naturally, in a similar manner to our other branded services, out of a need to target our clientèle more effectively and to offer those clients specific and tailored services to suit their requirements. Exclusive Properties only features properties that offer the very best in value, location and finish quality at each price point.

Our name has changed, but the same high level of service and client satisfaction remains. We would like to thank all of our current and past clientèle for their continued support, and look forward to continuing to serve you in the future. - Your EP Team

11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: + 66 [0] 77 430 326 www.epsamui.com Email: sales@samuivillasandhomes.com

BAAN RAK TALAY

BAAN BUA SAWAN

HB045

Price : 27 million Thb.

Baan Rak Talay offers five luxury villas, ranging in size from 4-6 bedrooms each with private landscaped grounds and pools.

The largest villa also has a second pool and tennis court. Outstanding finish quality.

MAENAM HEIGHTS

HG037

Price : 13.75 million Thb.

A large, luxury 4 double bedroom villa with 50 sqm pool, set on the northern slopes within the coconut canopied rolling hills above Maenam, the property is within easy reach of the Island’s ring road and the glorious unspoilt beach of Maenam.

The Mandalay Villas are ideally situated on the northeastern corner of Koh Samui, in the stunning unspoilt area of Choeng Mon, the home of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The villas are within a few minutes walking distance from two of the most beautiful beaches on Samui.

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 this home in pristine condition.

THE HEAD LAND VILLAS

BEACH VILLAS 6br.

Price : 38.5 million Thb.

Price : 42 million Thb.

The spectacular views are undoubtedly the highlight of the headland, and the four villas, each with its own swimming pool and private sun-deck, have been designed to best take advantage of them. All rooms and fittings have been angled with the vistas in mind and in the main living areas, the villas feature glass doors, bringing the outside indoors. Clean-lines, a monochrome palette, and an uncluttered decor ensure the view, and the mind, is never overwhelmed.

HB013

This spacious beachfront villa sits directly on Bang Por beach, offering stunning ocean views across to Koh Phangan island. The sandy beach and shallow waters make it very suitable for young children and adults alike. A constant gentle breeze tempers the tropical sunshine. Fantastic value!

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: + 66 [0] 77 430 326 www.samuivillasandhomes.com.com Email: sales@samuivillasandhomes.com

LAEM SET 3243sqm.

V153

LAMAI ROCK 7.5rai

BOPHUT HEIGHTS

V152

Price : 6 million Thb.

Peaceful 2 Rai plot with quiet surroundings in Leam Set. Perfect for anyone who is looking to build their dream home on Samui or for a future investment. Land in Development with full infrastructure.

This beach front land is located near the famous Grandma - Grandpa Rock in Lamai.

The beach frontage of 110 meters blends with natural big granite rocks and has a famous local seafood restaurant next door, so make this plot more special.

Exclusive Seaview plots set on the hillside overlooking Fisherman’s Village, each plot enjoys panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and the azure seas of the gulf of Thailand with the beautiful sister island of Koh Phangan as the backdrop.

LAEM SET 1.65rai

V151

B124

Price : 32,287,500 million Thb.

A rare opportunity- enjoy the best of both worlds that are sea view and beachfront land. It comes with concrete roads enabling 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 nearby.

A Rare opportunity to acquire on of the very few remaining plots of smallish beach front land available on Koh Samui. The land consists of approximately 3.5 rai offering substantial beach front length of approx. 80 metres. The location offers fantastic island and sunset views. Buyers will benefit from full architectural plans for 2 villas, designed by the highly acclaimed Bali based architect. Perfect also for a boutique hotel concept.

Enjoy the best of both worlds (sea view and beach front) this beautifully terraced property steps down to your own private piece of beach. This piece of land is in a very exclusive part of the island with very good neighbors (Kamalaya Resort).

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: + 66 [0] 77 430 326 www.samuivillasandhomes.com.com Email: sales@samuivillasandhomes.com

CHOENG MON Location Land Size Price Ownership

B153

: Choeng Mon : 1834sqm. : 35 million Thb. : Freehold

Rare opportunity to purchase 66 meters of oceanfront Property in the best location on Samui. Total beach view and access. Perfectly sloped to take in the breezed and views of Koh Phangan. Walk the beach to 5 star Resort Hotel Melati which has great restaurants, bars and gym membership available. Comes with approved plans to build world class homes from an award winning Hawaiian architectin conjuction with a Thai architect. Plans for 2 houses on 2 plots or buy just one plots. Price is 20 million baht for 1 plot or 35 million for both together. Ready to build with underground electric, water and concrete Sale includes complete set of approved plans for 2 luxury villas.

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: + 66 [0] 77 430 326 www.samuivillasandhomes.com.com Email: sales@samuivillasandhomes.com

THE PARK

AG003

Location

: Choeng Mon

Land Size

: 123sqm. 2br.

Price

: 6,270,000 million Thb.

Ownership

: Freehold, Condominium Title

Designed to ďŹ t 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. Developer ďŹ nance also available.

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: + 66 [0] 77 430 326 www.samuivillasandhomes.com.com Email: sales@samuivillasandhomes.com

SAMUI VILLAS & HOMES Estate Agency Holiday Villas Construction Thailand Property Awards DHEVATARA

DEVELOPER PROFILE

The Place to Be Mark Landers has used 28 years of real estate experience to make a success of his latest project, The Place, a beachfront Development in Lip Noi . Managing Director of Samui Prestige Homes, Mark has a vast experience in the Real Estate industry obtained working both in his home country of Australia and also in Asia.

Samui Prestige Homes have developed The Place, which is an eclectic mix of million dollar beachfront villas and features a variety of stunning garden villas and townhouses, all with private swimming pools. Located on the west coast of Samui in one of the last remaining natural beachfront areas, white sands and coral reefs still predominate. This exclusive gated community sits on 28 rai of land with over 300 meters of prime beachfront boasting amazing sunset views of the Five Islands.

The landscaping at The Place is a highlight, with the beautiful natural setting including water features and plenty of native tropical plants. Every effort has been made to ensure that the

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landscape remains as aesthetically pleasing as it has always been, and this adds to the sense of location. The project is currently 80% finished and is due for completion in September 2009. There are eleven beachfront villas, each one sitting on a plot of approximately 1 Rai. These villas have been carefully designed to incorporate separate pavilions and each one includes a private freeform swimming pool. In addition, there are 35 boutique villas being constructed which will also have their own private pools. One and two bedroom villas are both available, all with extensive furniture packages included in the price. The modern,

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on-site restaurant at The Place is the ideal choice for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sundays feature live jazz bands and top DJ’s play the latest music, and of course sunset cocktails can be enjoyed overlooking breathtaking views.

The Spa complex is another contemporary architectural delight and offers amenities such as a fitness centre, sauna, separate steam room, cold plunge pool, squash court, tennis court and juice bar. Absolute treats can be experienced in the form of Thai oil massages, pedicures, manicures and herbal baths.

There is a large variety of activities available at The Place, and you can choose between beach bars, restaurant bars and even VIP bars. These are all ideal places to meet friends and to relax in the afternoon or evening with a cocktail or fruit shake.

A range of water toys are provided for owners and guests too. Snorkeling equipment, kayaks, and boats are all included in the facilities, and The Place catamaran is also available to whisk you away to the nearby Anthong National Marine Park. Day cruises are a popular choice, as are the dinner and sunset tours. If you have always wanted to learn how to be a skipper then this is the ideal opportunity. A dive shop is also onsite and offers courses and trips suitable for beginner to advanced divers.

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For those looking to invest on Samui, freehold titles are available at The Place with the flexibility of complete owner usage and the opportunity for excellent rental returns while the villa is not in use, plus substantial capital gains. Villas are also available for short or long term rent.

The market for these luxury properties is demand

driven

and

appeals

to

wealthy

travelers who are looking for privacy and a high level of service. Much of the demand currently comes from expatriates living in Singapore and Hong Kong, and these are areas that Samui Prestige Homes are specifically targeting at the moment with direct marketing.

According to Mark Landers, it is the company’s aim to offer a home that also feels like a resort and his marketing strategy is to advertise the whole ‘lifestyle’ concept of the development.

The idea is that everything is on hand, and there is no need to actually leave The Place with such a variety of services and facilities at your doorstep.

Mark is a firm believer in the concept behind the development. “This type of development has been very successful in the Mediterranean, and recently it has spread to more exotic destinations such as Bali and now Koh Samui,” he said. “Thai people also provide an excellent level of service which makes our job so much easier.” Even in these difficult economic times there are enough wealthy people out there who demand luxury, quality and flexibility, and for these people The Place might be just what they are looking for.

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PROUD TO BE A MEMBER OF

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors T H E MARK OF P ROP E RT Y PROFESSIONA L I S M WORL DWI DE

I n te r n at i on a l ly L i censed Ag ent

For more information please contact: 10/11 Moo 5, Bohput, Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand, 84320, Tel: +66 (0) 77 417 005 Fax: +66 (0) 77 417 007 Email: info@horizonhomes-samui.com www.horizonhomes-samui.com

Office: +66 (0) 77 417 005 50

HS0222

Fea t u re d L ist ing s

A stunning two bedroom Garden Villa built within a gated community in Samui’s most sought after location, Choeng Mon. The Villa which offers partial sea-views comprises of a spacious living / dining area and a set back fully equipped Western kitchen. There are two bedrooms with the master bedroom having its own en-suite bathroom. The Villa comes fully furnished, by one of the Island’s leading Interior designers. The Villa also comes fully equipped with a state of the art AV system, iPod docking station, fire detector, alarm system, ADSL and safe deposit box. This Villa offers excellent rental returns due to its design, location and communal facilities.

Price: 12,000,000 THB

Location: Choeng Mon

HV0074

Fea t u re d L ist ing s

3 bed/4 bath fully furnished villa, living room with spacious sofa, western style kitchen with open bar & store room, Terrace, tropical landscaped garden with automatic sprinkling, sala with open living, Infinity pool with fully automatic system (Chlorine free), automatic robot and sundeck, Jacuzzi with overflow, Children pool with overflow, Garage 2 cars with 2 storerooms and automatic door, Full hot water, water tank and filter supplied Located in a quiet area, nice neighborhood, nice mountain view, partial sea view and only 5 minutes to all amenities.

Price: From 90,000 THB/month

Location: Bophut

Mobile: +66 (0) 862 822 794 51

After the successful completion and sale of their 1st condominium the 2nd condo complex has been launched and selling fast. Construction has begun and the framework is nearing completion, these condo’s are available in studio, 1 bed, 2 bed & 3 bedrooms in size from 33.22 to 77.5 Sqm’s. Units start from 2,205,000 THB for a studio and go up to 5,190,000 THB for a 3 bed unit. The condo’s have a full size & childs size pool, underground parking, BBQ, gym, roof top driving range, 24 hr security & CCTV and a on-site office.

FREE FURNITURE PACKAGE JUNE / JULY Location: Boh Phut Price: start from 2,050,000 Baht HS0139 Located on Boh Phut Hills, 200m from Boh Phut Hills Golf Club, 10 mins drive to Big C & Tesco. A sensational three bedroom Bali style villa, newly completed and ready to move into, boasting a private pool & separate Jacuzzi. The master bedroom features a bathtub with separate shower area. Beautifully presented lounge through to dining room and western style kitchen with dishwasher, hob, oven etc. Laundry room, large parking space, lovely illuminated gardens with features, statues etc. European designed and project managed at every stage of construction and finish

Location: Boh Phut Price: 17,500,000 Baht

HS0175

This beachfront Villa comprises of 3 pavilions: Pavilion 1 includes a western fitted kitchen, dining room and living room which has floor to ceiling windows that take advantage of the view. Pavilion 2 comprises of the spacious master bedroom suite with walk in wardrobe and en-suite bathroom. Pavilion 3 has both guest bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. Walled around the sides and rear with the front left open to the beach and views. Landscaped gardens and a large pool next to the beach provide an idyllic setting in which to relax. The quality of Baan Dalah as well as its beachside location and close proximity to all amenities will ensure that the property can enjoy substantial rental returns.

Location: Bang Rak Price: 39,000,000 Baht.

HS0114 Elegant and stylish is the only way to describe these two storey modern townhouses located close to the "Fisherman’s Village" of Bophut. The houses are set within lush tropical gardens overlooking a large communal swimming pool. Well maintained gardens helps to preserve the tranquil atmosphere. The terraced town house comprises of two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, living room, western style kitchen and guest bathroom. The upstairs balcony looks down onto the large pool & sala area. The master bedroom has a newly installed spa bath. This property comes fully furnished and includes a state of the art entertainment system.

Location: Boh Phut Price: 4,900,000 Baht HS0136 A magnificent Villa offering unrivalled panoramic views across to Koh Phan Ngan & Koh Som. This spacious four bedroom Villa is nestled on the mountain side looking across the whole north coast of the island. Each of the bedrooms with its own en-suite bathrooms has the same breath taking views to wake up to. The Villa comprises of a large living/dining area with a fully equipped Western kitchen. The entire property comes fully furnished, and there is also a separate maids quarters. The outside living area has a large terrace around the pool and a sala which is suitable for dining or just to relax. There is also a BBQ area for entertaining guests.

PRICED FOR QUICK SALE Location: Bang Por Price: 28,000,000 Baht HS0209 Located only minutes from the picturesque Boh Phut "Fisherman's Village", this popular small resort makes for an ideal investment proposition. The resort which is only 200m from the main ring road comprises of 5 X One bedroom Chalets, 3 X Two bedroom Chalets, 1 X Master House and a Maids Quarters. Each unit is generally rented on a long term basis due to the popularity of the location and its quiet surroundings. The bustling town of Chaweng and the airport are only 10 mins away.

Location: Boh Phut Price: 23,000,000 Baht

CS0026

Visit our website to check out our many listings www.horizonhomes-samui.com

Office: +66 (0) 77 417 005 52

The villa is located in residential area of Bang Rak, 400m from the beach, 5 minutes to Boh Phut & Fishermen Village, 5 minutes to the airport, 15 minutes to Chaweng beach. The villa is fully furnished and situated close to all amenities and facilities. There are total of 3 bedrooms, each equipped with A/C, en-suite and queen size bed, total of 4 bathrooms with shower and a w/c. Fully equipped western style kitchen with oven, gas hob, extractor, kettle, toaster, microwave.

Open plan living with dining and kitchen area, TV, DVD player. Hot water boiler system throughout the villa. Swimming pool is 38 Sqm, Jacuzzi, large decking area, sala, outdoor hot shower, landscaped garden, wall & gate.

HV0071

Location: Bang Rak Rates: 50,000 – 70.000 THB/month

Located within the exclusive Horizon Villa community, this lux 3 bedroom Bali style villa has expansive views overlooking Choeng Mon Beach which is just a 5 min walk away. The master and 1 guest bedroom have sea views and all bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms. The main building has an open plan fully equipped western kitchen, guest bathroom, dining area and living room. A Futronix mood lighting system provides the ambience with a plasma TV, UBC and music system for entertainment. This new villa is decorated and furnished to a very high standard which compliments the luxurious setting.

(Discounted rates due to some construction works on parts of the site)

AHV0061 Location: Choeng Mon Rate: 450-600 USD/night(Introductory Rate) Villa Shimoni is absolute beach front villa comprising 3 air-conditioned double bedrooms (1 king size four poster, 1 queen size and 1 twin) all with luxury modern en-suite bathrooms. Open plan fully equipped kitchen/dining/lounge area adjoining spacious outside wood decking leading to landscaped area, with tropical plants and coconut trees. There is a fully equipped Western kitchen with granite worktop. This Villa is situated on a tropical palm fringed sandy beach with fabulous views across the Gulf of Siam to nearby uninhabited tropical islands. Step out of your beach front villa for a long leisurely stroll along the safe sandy beach and in the early evening marvel at the sun setting behind the golden Big Buddha.

Location: Plai Laem Price: USD 300-500/Day

LV0070

Baan Eastwood is located on the hills in Boh Phut, just 5 mins drive from Boh Phut Hill golf club. A very private 4 bedroom serviced villa with sensational views of Koh Phan Ngan & ocean. The outside comprises of an infinity pool, large gardens with sala and BBQ area. 4 air-conditioned bedrooms all with en-suite bathrooms, 42 inch plasma TV, DVD players & surround sound system. Internet is also available. There is also a fully fitted Western kitchen with separate laundry area. Continental breakfast included. Linens changed every three days and towels on request. An excellent vacation home private, walled in a gated residence in one of the most sorts after areas on the island

Location: Boh Phut Rate: USD 425–600/Day

LV0058

With spectacular views of the Nathon bay and the five islands this 5 rai piece of fantastic real estate can be subdivided and sold as a single 1 rai plot or as a whole.

The land comes with chanote papers, building permits and road access. The land is close to the pier of Nathon, the Four Seasons Resort, and many seaside shops and restaurants. Prime real estate investment

LS0152

Location: Baan Makham Price: 4,000,000 Baht/Rai

Almost two Rai of absolute panoramic Sea-View land looking across the north coast of the Island directly at Koh Samui's sister Island of Koh Phan Ngan. This rectangular shaped plot of gently sloping land is just a short 5 minutes drive from the main ring road and a further 5 minutes to the popular Fisherman's Village of "Boh Phut"

Location: Maenam Price: 9,500,000 Baht

LS0177

10/11 Moo 5, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand, 84320 Email:info@horizonhomes-samui.com www.horizonhomes-samui.com

Mobile: +66 (0) 862 822 794 53

Horizon Villas

Horizon Villas, is introducing a new era of development and construction on Koh Samui, Thailand that will set itself apart from all other developments in Asia. Horizon Villas is located in Choeng Mon on 43 rai of sea view land. The development is unrivaled when it comes to location, beauty and design.

Horizon Villas has unprecedented facilities for all residents. A community restaurant, sports facility, tennis courts, 24 hour gated security, playgrounds for the children, and sea views that will leave you breathless.

Horizon Villas comes with a 20 year guarantee on the roof and a five year guarantee on the structure assuring that Horizon Villas will be around for a long time. Horizon Villas will ensure a high – end finish on all construction.

Office: +66 (0) 77 417 005 54

A two minute walk to the beach

Koh Samui's only residencial development with a developers license. Located on the hillside in Choengmon Beach.

Luxury villa's, all with fantastic sea views. Plot sizes range from 400 sq.m - 1600 sq.m.

Mobile: +66 (0) 862 822 794 55

Horizon Homes Present

Horizon Homes welcome you to the showcase properties of their flagship development, Horizon Villas. Horizon Villas will become one of the most sought after developments in Asia.

Located near Choengmon Beach Villas built by Profmil, unrivalled in finish Includes: Gym, Restaurant, Tennis Court, Wireless internet, Three phase underground electric, 24 hour security An expected ROI of 8% per year based on holiday rentals

Starting at 11.5 million THB 56

Horizon Villas is supported by a government license for development, and underwritten by the Siam Commercial Bank.

10/11 Moo 5, Bohput, Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand, 84320, Tel: +66 (0) 77 417 005 Fax: +66 (0) 77 417 007 Email: info@horizonhomes-samui.com www.horizonhomes-samui.com 57

RESTAURANT & RESIDENCE

ocean eleven 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 58

Phathong Residence

ผาทอง เรสซิเดนส์

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

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FCC FCA Creating 7 Building Your Vision architecture & landscaping interior & furniture Design Quality construction european management design Concepts architectural drawings structural engineering 3d renderings

Main Feature Building a Home Building Regulations Property Developments

MAIN FEATURE

Is The Glass Half Empty?

Are you sick of phrases like 'economic recession', 'downturn', 'looming depression' ?

Well, unfortunately they are sure to be banded about for a while to come. Everyone you talk to seems to have an opinion on the global crisis. Some say we are heading into a depression which will re-formulate the economy as a whole, others call it a stagnation period before a recovery over the next two years, many even believe a period of growth will soon follow with full recovery just around the corner. What is the best advice for those owning properties on the islands, and what are property companies doing to entice new investors?

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Carl Meerveldt is one expert who leans toward more pessimistic predictions. He is a finance investment senior executive with 27 years experience in the investment research industry. “Don’t expect a fast recovery,” he says. “The world economy is not out of the woods yet.” When asked what advice he would give people who still have assets and an income he says, “hold on.” He suggests that things are going to get worse before they get better, so people must get rid of as much debt as possible by liquidating some assets and keeping property, but definitely not re-mortgaging. Meerveldt believes that in 2010 inflation will return and put up property prices, although it will also increase the cost of living.

With economies in Europe and the US facing further tightening, many foreigners have begun to sell their properties in order to build up cash flow. This has created a glut in the market and buyers are now coming into the property market expecting large discounts.

This in turn creates a downward spiral where prices are being kept low and economic stagnation sets in. But that's not the story in every sector. On a more positive note, Alex Armitage from Horizon Homes believes the market is already improving, especially with regard to lower and mid-range properties. “Over the past four to five months at Horizon Homes we have seen a noticeable increase in property purchases," he said, "and we have high hopes that by Christmas we will see a remarkable turnaround.”

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Alex says that banks are now lending again in the UK, which should make a big difference. “Approximately half of the buyers on Koh Samui are from the UK," he added.

"The biggest problem they have is the strength of the Baht and weakness of sterling. We hope that within the next six months The Pound will get stronger and people will start buying again.” Horizon is seeing more and more customers from other parts of Europe now because the Euro is still reasonably strong. Alex believes that although the prices of properties have definitely dropped, they are now reflecting their true market value.

“People were greedy, and now they have to sell at a reasonable price." he said. "Land hasn’t depreciated but houses are now going for what they are actually worth.”

Horizon Homes has started to offer a new enticement to buyers in the form of quarter share options. For approximately 3.5 million Baht an investor will receive a quarter share in the development and will be able to use the property for four months of the year, or receive rental returns from those months. The leasehold is put in the investor’s name, which is still a big draw, and rental returns represent an average 6-8% of the investment annually. Experts suggest that Koh Samui will be the hardest hit in this downturn. But Alex doesn’t completely agree. “Rentals are actually still doing very well here,” he added, “especially the lower end villas in the 50-200 US Dollar a night range.”

For another opinion on the situation we spoke to Emma Johnson from Overseas Property Portfolio. She moved from the European/North African property market over a year ago to Samui with the perspective that this market was going places. People were looking to invest and buy a holiday home further afield to get better return on their investment. This has of course slowed down but talking to Emma she still feels that Asia offers more than the European market, specifically Thailand.

Baan Tai Beach Koh Samui Photo by: Steve Bray

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“Credit crunch, recession…..all this can sound quite negative, but it's also positive in the real estate world," she explained. "Bricks and mortar can be a good investment in today’s market, as long as you are buying the right property in the right location and at the right price, which can be done with the right advice. There are a series of options available to the buyer. Off-plan or new build means negotiating with the developer so a key factor here is to have on board a good agent who negotiates the best possible price and the best payment schedule to match your financial capabilities. This coupled with the current economic climate makes this a buyers market with more flexible developers."

Emma believes that because mortgages aren’t easily available for foreigners in Thailand, some developers will be able to offer finance and this is worth researching - a service that Emma provides with her clients. With regards to resale properties, there are plenty of purchasers who bought when the baht was very high, so now when they are looking to sell and take their money back to their home country, the property can be sold for virtually the same price as it was originally bought for.

So what do we believe? Is the market stagnating, worsening or slowly improving? It really does depend on who you talk to. However, even if you are a ‘glass half full’ type of person Carl’s advice should stand. “Don’t have debt hanging round your neck that you can’t service between now and when inflation sets in.” Don’t panic. Hold on to property if you can as a long term investment, but liquidize other assets to make sure that you don’t owe any money when inflation does hit. The common belief is that now is the time to sit tight, look for yields and and wait for the good times to return.

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BUILDING A HOME

Choosing a Reliable Agent Whether you choose to live in a gated development, purchase a stand-alone home, or for the even more adventurous, buy a piece of raw land on which to build your future dream house, you will be in need of the services of a good real estate agent. Choosing the right agent is essential as a reputable firm with good local contacts can help you avoid many of the pitfalls that a less informed buyer might encounter.

There are now so many different agents on the island, it is difficult to choose between them.

Ideally though, your agent should be able to demonstrate a solid background in the industry and offer examples of successful deals they have handled that are similar to your own plans.

It is also vital that your agent has good local connections with Thai partners and the authorities. Paperwork and local procedures can sometimes be daunting, but if you have the services of a quality agent with good local knowledge, almost all of the potential stumbling blocks can be swiftly traversed with little or no headaches for you, the buyer.

It is vital, for example that you know you are buying or leasing the right type of land. There are various different land titles, the most sought after is the 'Chanote' title. This indicates that the land has been officially surveyed with the use of GPS and its boundaries are now fixed.

Be warned that buying land without professional help could mean purchasing what looks like a bargain piece of land that may turn out to be unusable due to the land title. Other pitfalls include road access and the availability of utilities such as electricity and water, not to mention the processing and checking of legal documentation and ownership rights.

Once you have found a property, you will have to consider the various purchase options carefully. Foreign individuals may own a property on a renewable 30-year lease, but in the past, many opted to set up a Thai company in order to purchase the property freehold. The latter is less easy than it was a few years ago, but your agent should have a full understanding of both procedures and will be able to explain the pros and cons. Owning a Thai company involves legal and tax issues that you should be well aware of before pursuing this avenue.

With so many things to consider, it is easy to see why the services of a good and reputable agent are not just advisable, but essential. By working closely with them to find the solution that best suits your needs, you should enjoy a smooth and painless experience when setting up your new island home.

Building a Property Having a home built to suit your own tastes and needs can be a cost efficient, not to mention rewarding experience. It does take time, patience and energy however, and you need to be absolutely certain that the people you employ to build the property are capable of delivering the house you have in mind.

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Once the land is purchased and ready for development, thoughts can turn to the design of your house. Of course, you can be as involved in the design process as much as you wish, from merely requesting certain facilities or features all the way to designing the floor plan in its entirety. Either way, your ideas will have to go through a certified architect in order to ensure the plans are both practical and legal. Many laws exist in Thailand to ensure that buildings do not move too far away from Thai cultural traditions. Once the architect has completed your official plans, your builder, if you have already secured one, should then be able to work out a detailed quote to construct the property to the specifications.

When choosing a builder, don't be afraid to ask for references. Some contractors may even offer to take you around some of their previous projects so that you can see the quality of their work and perhaps gain some inspiration for your own home. Several contracting companies are foreign run or employ foreign representatives, which can save time and confusion due to communication problems. It is always good to try and strike up a rapport with the Thai partners and staff too though, as their local knowledge will often prove invaluable.

Once you have chosen your contractor, as always make sure your investment is protected by the correct documentation. It would be advisable to have an independent law firm check any paperwork for potential grey areas. If you have ever had a home built in the West, you would have received certain assurances from the building company, including an agreed schedule for completion, a performance bond and a warranty on the finished product.

Providing such guaraantees is not always common practice in Koh Samui so the kind of guarantees you are offered should have a significant bearing in your initial choice of construction company.

A performance bond is a guarantee issued by the contractor's bank to secure any advance payments you have made. When building on Koh Samui, you will likely need to pay an initial deposit in order for the builder to obtain materials and retain a workforce. Thereafter, you will pay an agreed amount of instalments, which will likely be tied in with certain pre-agreed stages in your home's route to completion. The initial deposit, which could be around a quarter to a third of the total amount, will remain unsecured if no performance bond is issued.

In terms of warranty, you should insist on at least twelve months coverage from the completion date. This should be plenty of time for any major building defects to become apparent and resolved at the cost of the building company.

With the plans cleared, the paperwork checked and your deposit paid, building can commence. If possible, it is a good idea to make regular visits to your property during the construction phase. This is perhaps the best way to avoid problems or a misinterpretation of your wishes and also means building good relations with the workforce. It will establish your authority as the paying client and seeing your property gradually come together is almost as rewarding as the first night you'll spend in your new tropical home.

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Building Regulations on Koh Samui In order to build on Koh Samui you must first obtain a building permit from the municipality office and your building must meet certain requirements, depending on the location of the land on which you wish to build.

There are 4 defined areas for land depending on its distance from the beach.

(See diagram on opposite page) Stage 1. Land up to 10 Metres from the beach. The law states that no construction is permitted within this area.

Stage 2. Land up to 50 Metres from the beach. Within this area you are permitted to construct a single storey building only It's height cannot exceed 6 Metres (including the roof) and the building cannot exceed the maximum allowed area of 75 Square Metres.

Stage 3, Land up to 200 Metres from the beach. Within this area you are permitted to build up to a maximum height of 12 Metres (including the roof). The maximum allowed size is 2000 Square Metres.

Stage 4. Land located more than 200 Metres from the beach. Within this area, buildings of up to 12 Metres in height (including the roof) can be constructed.

In addition, all buildings must now be constructed with peaked roofs, flat roofs are no longer permitted.

Information courtesy of Manit Tajew Senior Lawyer Miklaw Associates

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PROPERTY DEVELOPMENTS

Residential Developments There are pros and cons to purchasing a property within a purpose built residential community, as opposed to investing in a stand-alone property or building yourself. One definite advantage is that the complete infrastructure will already be in place when you move in, with electricity, water and access roads provided by the developer. Many communities also have an impressive list of communal facilities, which can include swimming pools, shops and other social amenities. Generally there will also be some kind of onsite management, as well as security for the safety concious.

On the other hand, whilst there is often a choice of different designs available on residentail projects, these can be limited and some buyers prefer the thrill of finding a unique style, or building a home to their particular tastes, rather than opting for a more uniform theme. Privacy may also be an issue with some developments placing homes quite close together in order to optimize space. It is up to the individual buyer to weigh up the pros and cons for their particular needs. If developed and managed by a reliable compay, residential communities take a great deal of the stress out of not just purchasing a property on Koh Samui, but also living in and maintaining a new island home thereafter.

Upkeep and maintenance Once you have bought or built your dream home, you will obviously want to protect your investment by ensuring the property is well looked after and cared for. For residents living on Koh Samui full time, this should present no problem, but not every home owner will be living on the island all year round.

For these people, a residential community may well be the best option, as they often include maintenance contracts to ensure that the property is well looked after in your absence. Be sure to find out what exactly is covered in the maintenance agreement however, and measure the cost of the service as part of the buying process, so that you don't face any surprises or extra bills later on. Remember that communal facilities in these residential communities must also be well maintained. A clean and well-kept community can only help protect your investment and enhance the development's reputation.

If you own a property outside a residential development there are a number of management companies on the island who can offer you a similar kind of maintenance contract whilst you are away. As above, ensure you are fully aware of your coverage and costs before making a long-term commitment.

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Risks and Concerns Purchasing a home can often be stressful, not to mention when you are looking to set up a new life in a foreign country. The best way to avoid any problems is to thoroughly research your options before jumping into a major purchase without thinking everything through. Buying a home is exciting, especially when you're talking about a tropical island retreat, but it's important to keep your feet firmly on the ground and youe head on high alert.

Explore all of your options thoroughly, whether you are looking for an agent, developer or contractor. If possible, do some research on the companies you're interested in. Can they provide you with references? How long have they been operating? Do they have a sound track record? One of the best ways to research is by talking to people. There are plenty of people already living on the island who have taken the same leap you're now considering. Their advice and opinions could just save you a great deal of time and stress.

Whilst common sense will help you avoid many potential pitfalls, it is also advisable to obtain the services of an independent and reputable law firm, before you go ahead with any endeavour. Documents such as title deeds or other legal agreements will need to be translated and checked for you. A reputable law firm can ensure that both the purchase process runs smoothly and that the paperwork involved is efficiently produced and legally sound.

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Whatever or wherever your construction project may be, we guarantee to deliver a comprehensive ‘start-to-finish’ professional consultancy services which not only allows you to concentrate your expertise on the job in hand but also ensures your project is completed on time and to budget.

We are specialized in: Development Management Project Management Construction Management Quantity Surveying Current projects include: Imperial Tara Hotel Terragro Fertilizer Head Office CH Hotel Dusit Hua Hin Main Kitchen Renovation CONTACT: TRI ASIA PACIFIC (Thailand) Co. Ltd. 195 Empire Tower, River Wing East, 47th Floor, South Sathorn Road, Yannawa Sub District, Sathorn District, Bangkok 10120 Tel: 02 686 3413 Fax: 02 686 3433 E-mail: office@triasiapacific.com 72

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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

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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.

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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

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⊩ᕟ䌘䆃

㢣ṙቯ Ꮹᑆ ߯Ϯᦤ⼎ Դᠧㅫᓔྟ佪⃵೼⋄೑߯Ϯ஢˛ བᵰᰃ䖭ḋˈ៥ӀᏠᳯᦤկ᳝⫼ⱘֵᙃᐿ ࡽᙼⱘӕϮ೼ℷ⹂ⱘ䔼䘧Ϟࠡ䘆DŽ ໪೑Ҏ᳔ㅔऩ੠᳔ᆍᯧⱘϔ⾡ᇣൟӕϮ݀ৌᔶᓣᰃ⋄೑᳝䰤䋷ӏ݀ৌDŽ ೼ ⋄೑ˈ᳝䰤䋷ӏ݀ৌᰃϔ⾡ৃҹᢹ᳝໮䖒 Ͼ㙵ϰˈ݅ѿⳌৠⱘଚϮⳂⱘ ˈᑊᔶ៤䌘ᴀߚ᨞ⱘϔ⾡݀ৌᔶᓣDŽ

䀁ゟ݀ৌܹ䮼 ៤ゟϔϾ݀ৌˈԴᖙ乏‫ܜ‬᳝Ꮖ㍧䀏‫݀ⱘݞ‬ৌゴ⿟໛ᖬᔩDŽ 㽕ℷ⹂䀏‫ᙼˈݞ‬ 䳔㽕৥ᔧሔᦤկ䌉݀ৌⱘ䌘᭭੠㟇ᇥ ৡ㙵ϰⱘ䆺㒚⏙ऩ˄ৃҹᰃ⋄೑៪໪ ೑೑⇥៪ϸ㗙ⱚৃ˅ DŽ೼ᙼ৥ᔧሔᦤկ䌘᭭ⱘ㟇䖳 ໽Пৢˈᙼৃҹী䭟㄀ ϔ⃵ⱘ㙵ϰӮ䆂এ䖒៤㙵ϰण䆂ˈϺ䆒ゟ݀ৌⱘϮࡵ㾘߭DŽ ೼䖒៤㙵ϰण䆂Пৢˈᙼህৃҹ೼ৠϔ䀏‫ஂݞ‬ԡ⬇䇋ଚϮⱏ䆄DŽ ‫؛‬བᙼϡ ৠᛣᶤѯ݀ৌ㾘߭ˈԴৃҹᇛṱ᭛ᦤѸࠄ⇥џ੠ଚ⫼⊩ᒁⱘড়ӭ݇㋏ϢӕϮ 䚼䭔⬇䇋㺕≎DŽ

㙵⼼ 䰸њଚϮⱏ䆄ⱘ䯂乬ˈԴ䖬ᖙ乏⹂ֱᙼⱘ݀ৌⱘ㙵⼼ӋؐϡԢѢ↣㙵 ⋄䪶 DŽབᵰ䆹݀ৌ≵᳝⹀ᗻ㾘ᅮ䖭ϔṱ᭛ˈ䖭ѯ㙵⼼ৃҹ䕀䅽ˈ⫮㟇ߎଂDŽ ↣ৡ㙵ϰᖙ乏㒭ќӑ乱䆕кˈϔӑֱ䆕ҪӀ԰Ў㙵ϰⱘ䑿ӑ᭛ӊDŽ བᵰӏ ԩҎᏠᳯҪӀⱘ㙵ӑ䕀䅽㒭঺ϔᔧџᮍˈҪӀᖙ乏฿‫ݭ‬䕀䅽Ҏ੠ফ䅽Ҏⱘ㙵 ᴗ䕀䅽⹂䅸кDŽ 䆹݀ৌ䖬乏ᢹ᳝݊㙵ϰⱏ䆄‫݊ˈݠ‬Ёࣙ৿᠔᳝݀ৌ㙵ϰⱘ䆄ᔩDŽ 㗠ℸ䆕к ᇚ㸼ᯢϺ⹂ᅮ䆹݀ৌ㙵ϰⱘ䑿ӑDŽ

㙵ϰ੠Џᐁ ᳝䰤݀ৌⱘ㙵ϰৃҹᰃ⋄೑៪໪೑೑⇥៪ϸ㗙ϺᄬˈԚ⬅໪೑೑㈡㙵ϰ᠔ᣕ ᳝ⱘ㙵ӑ↨՟ᇚ‫އ‬ᅮ䆹݀ৌⱘ೑㈡ˈ䖭ৃ㛑Ϲ䞡䰤ࠊ䆹݀ৌⱘᴗ߽ˈབೳഄ ᠔᳝ᴗDŽ 80

བᵰϡࠄ ˁⱘ݀ৌ㙵ӑ⬅໪೑㙵ϰ᠔ᣕ᳝ˈᙼⱘ݀ৌ㹿䅸Ўᰃ⋄೑݀ৌ DŽ Ԛᰃˈབᵰ໪೑㙵ϰᣕ᳝䍙䖛 ˁⱘ㙵ӑˈ䌉݀ৌࠛᰃϔᆊ໪೑݀ৌDŽ ೼⋄೑ˈ⋄೑੠໪೑݀ৌП䯈Ꮒ߿᳔໻ⱘᰃ೼ѢҪӀ䌁ф੠ᢹ᳝᠓ഄѻ៪݊ ҪӕϮⱘᴗ߽DŽ ಴ℸˈ䞡㽕ⱘᰃˈ⡍߿ᰃᇍ䙷ѯ೼᠓ഄѻ੠ഄѻ䭟থⱘӕ Ϯˈ㽕њ㾷੠䆄ԣˈ䰸䴲Դⱘ݀ৌᰃ⋄೑݀ৌˈձ᪮ᬓᑰ㽣ᅮˈ䰸䴲ᬓᑰ㌺ Ѣ⡍ᴗˈ೼䖭Ͼ೑ᆊԴᰃ⛵⊩পᕫᑊᢹ᳝᠓ഄѻⱘDŽ ໪೑݀ৌгফ䰤Ѣ⡍ᅮⱘଚϮ⌏ࡼঞ㸠ЎDŽ೼䖯㸠ᶤѯϮࡵˈ䆹݀ৌᖙ䷜⬇ 䇋ᬓᑰᡍ‫ޚ‬DŽ ೼䖭⾡ᚙ‫މ‬ϟˈ⬇䇋ᇚ㹿㾚ЎϾḜDŽ ҪӀгᇚ䴶ЈϹᆚⱘⲷ ⴷ੠ϹḐⱘẔᶹDŽ 䖭ѯ݀ৌⱘ䰤ࠊㄝৠ໪೑݀⇥೼⋄೑Ꮉ԰㗙DŽ བᵰᙼᰃ⊼‫ݠ‬Ў⋄೑݀ৌˈԴህゟࠏᢹ᳝䌁ф੠ᣕ᳝᠓ഄѻ៪݊ҪӕϮⱘᴗ ߽ˈ݊ᴗ߽㽪ৠ⋄೑݀⇥DŽ✊㗠ˈḍ᥂ᮄⱘゟ⊩ˈ᳔䖥Ꮖᓔྟ⫳ᬜˈ೑ᆊೳ ഄ䚼䮼ⱘᎹ԰Ҏਬ⦄೼ᖙ乏ᕏᑩ䇗ᶹᙼⱘ⋄೑㙵ϰⱘᬊܹᴹ⑤DŽϔᆊ݀ৌⱘ ⋄೑㙵ϰབ℆䌁фӏԩ䌘⫶ᖙ乏⬇᡹݊ᬊܹˈ৥ᔧሔᦤկ䆕᥂ˈ䆕ᯢҪӀ᳝ Ϣ݊Ҫ໪೑㙵ϰ݅ৠᡩ䌘ⱘ㛑࡯DŽ া᳝ᕫࠄᔧሔᡍ‫ޚ‬㗙᳝ᴗ䌁ф੠ᢹ᳝ೳ ഄDŽᕫࠄ೑ᆊೳഄ䚼䮼ᡍ‫݀ˈৢޚ‬ৌेৃҹⴔ᠟⬇䇋ೳഄ᠔᳝ᴗ߁䆕៪݊Ҫ ড়Ḑ䆕кⱘՓ⫼੠ᢹ᳝DŽ ݊ᅗ䞡㽕џ乍 ᳝䰤݀ৌ䷜ᢹ᳝㞾Ꮕⱘ㨷џӮҷ㸼݀ৌⱘৡН㸠џDŽ㨷џӮ䷜䙉✻㙵ϰᡍ‫ޚ‬ ⱘᴵ՟੠ण䆂㸠џDŽ㙵ϰࠛᢹ᳝㨷џⱘӏੑঞ䂓ࢩᴗDŽ ೼㒧ᴳ䆹݀ৌⱘ䋶ᬓᑈᑺৢˈ Ͼ᳜‫ˈݙ‬䆹݀ৌ᳝Нࡵᦤฅ݀ৌ䉵ࢭฅ㸼㌺ Ꮉଚথሩሔ˄'HSDUWPHQW RI %XVLQHVV 'HYHORSPHQW˅ DŽ᳾ᦤฅ݀ৌ䉵ࢭ ฅ㸼㗙ˈ䆹݀ৌᇚৃ㛑㹿㔮催䖒 ⋄䪶ⱘ㔮ℒˈ䖲ҷ݀ৌⱘ㨷џӮгৃ 㛑㹿㔮ℒ催䖒 ⋄䪶DŽ བᵰӏԩྨਬӮᢦ㒱ᬃҬ㔮ℒˈ䄺ᆳৃҹ৥⊩䰶 䆝䇋䘂ᤩҸˈᑊ᥻ਞᢦҬᮍDŽབᵰ݀ৌϡ৥ᔧሔᦤկᖙ㽕ⱘฅ㸼᭛ӊˈ᩸䫔 䆹݀ৌⱘଚϮⱏ䆄ࠛᰃ঺ϔ。݀ৌৃ㛑䴶Јⱘ໘㔮DŽ

7UDQVODWLRQ FRXUWHV\ E\ RI -DGH )DQJ ᴀ䌘᭭Ё᭛㗏䆥 ᮍ㡃⥝

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Visas and 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 profession als 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 50000 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.

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Car Insurance, What You Should Know.

There are lots of vehicles driving around Thailand that are NOT insured. In the event of a motor accident, If the other vehicle has insurance then you may be able to claim against them. If they don’t you have to rely on your own insurance cover.

There are two types of motor insurance cover, Compulsory & Voluntary:Compulsory This is the ‘sticker’ which resides in the top left corner of your car window. It is also what the police initially look for. Most vehicles will have this insurance as it’s very obvious when it’s missing.

Voluntary - There are 4 basic types of voluntary cover, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3 & Class 3+. These relate quite well to the UK’s Comprehensive - Third Party Fire & Theft & Third Party Only respectively.

There are other important features that you need to ensure are covered correctly in your policy. Bail Bond - This needs to be 200,000 Bt. minimum and is necessary if you should be arrested and detained by the police. Also check that the cover for Personal Accident, Medical Treatment and Third Party Liability are at the levels you require.

Named or Any Driver - It may surprise you that in Europe the driver is insured, however in Thailand it’s the vehicle. Naming a driver might reduce the premium but will restrict payout if someone else is in the driving seat when an accident occurs.

No claims bonus - It is possible to obtain a discount if you can provide proof of No claims, even from abroad. It pays to shop around or better still get your broker to do the work for you. You should have your old policy to hand when you call your broker to ensure you get the best rate. In all walks of life, you get what you pay for and insurance is no different. The cheapest quotes are not always the best, look for value for money, good cover at a reasonable price. There are around 70 insurance companies in Thailand, not all provide the level of service you may desire. Beware especially of those companies that are known to be reluctant to pay out in the event of an accident.

Why use an independent company rather than going direct? The answer is simple, if you go direct you will receive a quote from that company ONLY. An independent company however, will find the most suitable cover and the most competitive quotation from a selected range of companies. Also, in the event of an accident the broker can liaise with the insurance company on your behalf, if you go direct, you’re on your own. This is the case for all types of insurance.

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INTERIOR TIPS

CREATIVE

HOME OFFICE SOLUTIONS

The way we use our homes is changing, particularly with the advent of the economic slow down. Satellite offices are becoming the new buzz words and people are retreating from the hustle and bustle of city life to the serene and chilled tropics where life is slower and the standard of living is more affordable with a higher quality of life. With this new mind set is the essential addition of the home office space. Whether you run your own business, work freelance or have children who need somewhere to study, the home office is a vital space that has to be considered.

The perfect home office should look as stylish as the rest of your home yet maintaining its practical side, be ergonomic and functional, too. It is very important that your needs for this space are assessed. A great starting point is to make a comprehensive list of the things that are essential items in your office and how you need those items to work for you. Consider who will be using the space – just yourself or will it overspill to your family too? Will it be purely business? Will clients visit you there? Will there be a need to accommodate another person during the working hours? Is shelving needed for reference material such as books, magazines or space to archive papers or past projects?

Designers may have specific design tables, lockable cabinets for private documents or expensive equipment. The key point here is to always overestimate the amount of storage you think you will need.

Another important issue that often gets over-looked, is the right light. Poor lighting can cause serious eye damage and also create an ambiance that is flat resulting in less productivity.

So, an oversized cupboard area with no windows completely enclosed is not the perfect office space. Ideally you need lots of natural daylight and if you have any opportunity for some sort of a view, be it a stunning sea-scape or a small jungle garden, do it, you will be shocked by how this can get those creative juices going.

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Now, if you are not building from scratch and already reside in a house that has all bedrooms occupied, it’s time to get creative. At first glance you may think there is no room for a dedicated work space, but don’t despair there is an area you can put too good use.

If you only use a computer or desk for short periods of time, then you may be able to accommodate an office on a landing or under the stairs. Samui homes are not always furnished with stairwells, but if your home is lucky enough to have one, this often makes a great work station too, as long as lighting is considered. Alternatively some stairwells have a small area to the side of them often used for storage. With a cleverly purpose built desk for that area, some shelving and draws, you have a self made office without the need to pack away each day, as its completely out of the way. Drop down desks are also perfect for those of us that are often on the go work wise and so work at a desk in shorter bursts so there is no need to dedicate an entire room to a work space. The desk can be integrated into a shelving unit with open storage so when open all work items are accessible and then once closed there is no sign of the work space.

The ultimate in super storage can be designed in a living room where part of the wall is actually a false panel. When pulled from the wall the panel reveals a complete floor to ceiling office space with shelving and a desk. Sat behind the panel there is an element of privacy and when work is over, the panel is closed, thus appearing like part of the wall, simple and effective. A screen can also work brilliantly in multi functional spaces dividing the room without permanent commitment.

If working at home for you is more permanent, with perhaps a lot more equipment needed, then an entire room is a sensible plan as anything else may be counter-productive. A spare bedroom away from the hub of the house leaving you able to crack on undisturbed is the best way forward. Good shelving from floor to ceiling and storage will aid smooth working. If however there is no room inside the house but you have a good sized garden then why not consider an external building to conduct your work. This may not need to be a permanent structure and there are many building outfits on the island that can offer advise on how a simple structure can be set up independent to the house without costing an arm and a leg.

Finally, something to consider is sitting comfortably. This can really get over looked and yet is of paramount importance. Sitting badly can raise the load on your lumbar discs almost 200% compared to standing. Bending forward for extended period of times is also damaging so a good chair is a very wise investment.

Office spaces in your home are a lot easier to set up then we sometimes think. Step back, make a plan and get creative.

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GARDEN GUIDE

How to make your garden a comfortable living space.

Living in Thailand is all about creating seamless divisions between indoor and outdoor living.

Being as lucky as we are residing in the tropics, it's important that we all maximize the garden spaces to fit the way we live our lives. With gardens offering so many different dimensions, tapping into these can create endless opportunities. One space can have the ambience of a sanctuary for simple relaxation when it feels like its time to retreat and take some chilled down time. Sumptuous floor cushions with low level tables surrounded by fragrant shrubs and tress can create an atmosphere of serene privacy. Then, by night, twinkling tree lanterns, the scent of jasmine in the air and a gorgeous candle lit dinner table can set the stage for becoming that extension of your home for al fresco pleasures that are such a feature of our island lives.

It’s good sometimes to try to strike a balance between the indoor and outdoor spaces of your home by maintaining a level of quality that is congruent with the style and quality of your house and furnishings. This has just been made that much simpler by a great addition to the market of synthetic rattan furniture. One of beauties of these furnishings is the high quality rattan fibre is absolutely weatherproof, which makes the furniture exceedingly long lasting, light and stable. The icing on the cake is that it is extremely low-maintenance and can easily be wiped clean, so maintenance is not an issue. Synthetic furniture comes in a staggering variety of colours shapes and sizes which in turn helps us to create the differing dimensions our gardens can offer. Create a delicious outside lounge area with beautiful sofas ready for you to lie back and unwind on, or perhaps a round canopied day bed that seats 3 for that chilled 'curl up like a cat' feel. To get a good idea of exactly what’s on offer try Michael at Oriental Living, as he has a great collection of this furniture with optional colours and sizes. Certainly worth stopping in to check it out.

Ambient lighting is a big consideration when planning areas in a garden. There is no point relying solely on the main garden lights as it leaves that magical personalized feel out of the picture. Stunning lanterns hanging from a tree close to your outdoor lounge help create that special feel. Free standing iron or bamboo lights add to that lounge room lizard feel, while a few token candles with wind breakers so you don’t spend your night having to walk around with a lighter can really create a soft warm tropical feel. Eternal Flame has a beautiful array of lights for both indoor and outdoor lighting. A lot of the lamps have been individually designed by young designers and have that cutting edge feel. If a more rustic boho look is what youre after, then this too is available. It’s too good a shop to miss if you’re looking for something extra special in the lighting department.

Now, is any home complete without the obligatory island life hammock? Whether it’s an old school single cloth Thai hammock in an interesting yet vibrant colour complimentary to the garden surroundings or a classic Mayan hammock for that soft cotton decadent colonial feel

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or a gorgeous double bamboo bed hammock that just swings in the breeze calling you to come and relax, a hammock is a garden must. Trees are of course the perfect stand but don’t be shy to make a total hammock chill out lounge, its fun and funky and works a treat. Hammock lounges can be perfectly accented with hanging lanterns and beautiful local hanging flat baskets, which make the perfect table accessory for a drink or book. There truly is something mind-freeing about swinging in a hammock in the comfort of your own home, paradise at its simplest and best.

Your home and your garden are always considered to be a true extension of you. Don’t be shy in making your garden work for you and with the stunning variety of furniture, dÊcor accessories and local building materials which are available here on Samui, the perfect outdoor living area is easy to attain. With a few simple steps in mind, your garden and its accessories can fulfill all the requirements needed to create those different spaces so that the fun and good times that can be had in them will be endless.

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HOME MAINTENANCE

Home Safety Tips Most accidents occur in the home, and the majority of them are preventable so it is important to keep your home and property as safe as possible. Parents are used to focusing on safety concerns with young children, but there are many home safety tips which are advisable for everyone to be aware of and most are quick, easy and generally pain-free.

Fires are one of the major concerns in the home, especially in hot and tropical climates. One of the first things you should do when purchasing or renting a home is to make sure that smoke detectors are installed. They should be located near bedrooms and there should be at least one on every floor. Batteries need to be replaced annually or when a ‘chirping’ sound is heard.

Consider using fabrics such as 100% polyester, nylon wool or silk to furnish your house, as they are difficult to ignite and tend to self-extinguish. Replacing a correct size fuse with a larger one can be a serious fire hazard. If the fuse in the box is rated higher than meant for the particular circuit then excessive current will flow and possibly overload the outlet and wiring to a point where a fire could start.

Electrics and wiring are often a bone of contention in Samui and Koh Phangan. If outlets or switches appear unusually warm or hot then this may indicate that an unsafe wiring condition exists. Call an electrician and immediately unplug cords from outlets and don’t use switches. Also, improperly grounded appliances can lead to electric shocks so make sure you check with an electrician if in doubt.

Outside the house, you need to make sure that lead based paints have not been used as they are a major source of lead poisoning for children and can also affect adults. You can

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ask a painting contractor to come and tell you if the paint contains lead, and if so it can be removed and repainted with lead-free materials.

If you have a spa or hot tub, these need to be checked regularly by a professional. Drain covers need to be in good working order and not cracked or missing. You should know where the cut-off switch is for the pump, so you can turn it off in an emergency and never let the temperature of the water rise above 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

On Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, safety standards are not as rigorously upheld as in Europe and the rest of the Western world. Therefore, whenever an electrician, painter or contractor comes to do work on your house it is a good idea to talk to them in detail about what materials they are using or about the work they are carrying out. Sometimes it is better to pay that little bit more to have something installed or fixed correctly, rather than possibly exposing yourself to an avoidable hazard.

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SMART SAMUI

BUILDING A COMMUNITY Bluewater International School has seen a lot of new developments take place recently, and is in the process of implementing quite a few more.

Headmaster, Jeremy Lees has taken this school from small beginnings in 2006 to a thriving, community based International school with an excellent and well deserved reputation on the island.

The school recently had a very successful inspection by the Council of British International Schools (COBIS) as part of the lead-up to a full inspection by the UK independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). This is all part of making sure that parents on Samui are aware of the quality standards being consistently implemented all across the curriculum.

Over the past year the school has undergone many changes, adding not only a number of new pupils but also more facilities, buildings and services. A popular recent addition was the swimming pool, which has been embraced by students and teachers alike. Swimming lessons are now part of the curriculum for every class and it is common to hear splashing and laughter ringing through the school grounds.

In early June, a synthetic grass sports pitch will be installed that will allow children to play tennis, football, volleyball, basketball and netball. This will increase the already broad range of extra-curricular options for students and members of the island community. On Sundays, sailing lessons are offered free of charge courtesy of the Samui Yacht Club and other activities such as music clubs, Thai dancing, computer clubs, gardening clubs and language lessons are also now offered to pupils of the school. Five new classrooms are already planned for the Senior School, which will allow the facility to grow into its potential and expand at a comfortable rate.

Bluewater does not confine its focus to current students. The school also aims to become an important part of the community and to that end has encouraged skilled professionals to offer classes after school hours to adults and children alike. These are open to everyone and have received an enthusiastic response. On Thursday afternoons, for example, David runs Capoeria classes for pupils, and later for adults. This combination of martial arts and dance from Brazil has been a big hit and already becoming a new trend in exercise on the island. Next, on

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Wednesday afternoons, Heather Millburn runs a circuit training class for adults. Although many of the participants are parents or teachers it has also brought in friends and exercise buffs who contribute further to the community feeling at the school. One attendee that regularly attends the Wednesday afternoon circuit classes, met a number of parents and teachers and has now become part of the volunteer crew, conducting extra reading sessions for the primary classes. “I love the feeling of the school,” she said, “and it’s nice to give something back to the community. The children love reading and I enjoy watching them improve week after week.”

Part of this spirit also involves teaching the children about the importance of recycling. When people visit the school they not only see information sheets about recycling, but may also notice different bins all over the property, labeled to take different kinds of litter and rubbish.

The children themselves have been instrumental in setting up the system and have taken part in activities surrounding the issue. The idea is that not only will this provide learning opportunities for the pupils and create a ‘green’ school, but the children will take their knowledge out into the community and help make Samui a more environmentally friendly place in the future.

Another way Bluewater has extended itself to those outside the school is the recent AIS English summer camp which it ran over four days. Children from all over Surrathani were chosen to come to Samui and attend a camp, which helped them improve their English and taught them about recycling as well. These children were generally more disadvantaged than the school's regular pupils and they jumped at the chance to be sponsored under such a scheme.

Bluewater International School is becoming well known around the island. Not only for its commitment to education, employing only well-qualified teachers and staff, but for reaching out into the community and providing a broader education for all.

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VILLA GETAWAYS Information provided courtesy of Samui Villas and Homes LTD Koh Samui is an island with endless opportunities for luxury accommodation, with a developed market and established tourism facilities. People choose to holiday here for honeymoons, in groups of friends, to attend weddings or events or to simply relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches and pulsating nightlife. In the past the majority of visitors chose to stay in the myriad of hotels on the island, but now there are more options, making the accommodation decision that much harder.

Renting a villa on Samui is becoming a popular choice. In the past it was seen as outside most Akuvara people’s budget, often reserved only for the very rich or large groups attending weddings or family events who pooled together to afford the privacy and exclusivity of a villa set on a mountainside or by the beach.

Now however, new developments are underway to make renting a villa a more affordable and attractive option. Mark Ribail from Samui Villas and Homes, the island's largest villa rental operation, is encouraging smaller groups to rent villas on a room basis. “We can rent out a large, seven bedroom villa to less people now,” he explained, “closing off some bedrooms but keeping the living areas, kitchen and other rooms in the villa available at guest’s disposal. This means guests have all the advantages of a private property and we are able to reach more people and keep things affordable.”

Villas on Samui offer all the benefits of five-star hotels, with maid service, 24-hour concierge assistance and help organizing tours and airport transfers. Companies like SVH even offer a personal chef to prepare delicious Thai and western meals on demand.

While not offering the social interaction that a hotel stay generally guarantees, renting a villa does ensure a greater amount of privacy. The properties are usually set in lush gardens, with private infinity pools, outside dining areas and sometimes even a personal gym.

Architecturally, styles vary from chic neo-classic designs to fusion inspired Thai spaces with separate pavilions. Additionally an owner’s personal touch with artwork, accessories and design ideas help to create the kind of ‘home away from home’ feeling a hotel cannot provide.

Regular visitors to Samui increasingly seek out villas for their added benefits. “Five star hotels are great for a while,” says Maria Gerrish, a dedicated villa guest, “but for a stay longer than a week I’d rather have more space and appreciate the personal touches.” Maria and her husband have now purchased a property and are renting it out themselves. “We’ve had such amazing feedback from people who have stayed in our villa," she explained, "they really appreciate the effort we put in to making it a comfortable home, but somewhere that’s also a little bit decadent.”

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Suralai

While Samui's hotels are in no danger of going out of business, private villas do provide another option and with the market expanding at an ever increasing rate, the choices are almost limitless.

Agents will help you find the perfect getaway for that romantic holiday or family vacation and many offer a range of extra facilities and services. In these challenging economic times, the promotions and deals on offer make villa holidays a very attractive alternative.

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231 625 892 6372 061 4280 289 0025 427 311 417 005 246 100 430 399 474 1837 230 606 377 018 813 5715 430 043 430 399 2667572 895 4132 245 136 979 0679 430 326 427 774 683 4592 247 710 5359100 238 954

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UNIQUE PHANGAN Koh Phangan has always attracted what most would consider a more alternative crowd and the island is also becoming a more permanent host to visitors, with residential developments beginning to spring up on the beaches and mountainsides.

It may be the unique stream of visitors that has lead some developers on Koh Phangan to look at more forward thinking ways of appealing to potential investors, but it is also undoubtedly the unique nature of the island’s environment.

The island prides itself on its less than modern atmosphere, and many things such as seafood, transportation, accommodation and souveniers, are cheaper than on the other more developed islands.

Koh Phangan offers a suprising variety of attractions and activities for all types of tourists.

An island that was once considered the 'back-door escape' from Samui, has now established itself as a destination in its own right. Regular boat and ferry services take thousands of people to Koh Phangan and places of interest include four, year-round waterfalls, a cave temple situated near a typical Thai village and some fabulous offshore islands.

Several new restaurants have opened in the last year on Koh Phangan and are doing very well. The island now boasts Thai, Thai fusion, Italian, Indian and even Swedish cuisine.

All these new restaurants are part of a general shift up-market, which is driving both the tourism and property markets. Meanwhile the local government is planning a beautfication programme for the island’s roads and a campaign to re-inforce Koh Phangan’s appeal as a natural destination.

Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach, Koh Phangan

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PROPERTY ON KOH PHANGAN Baan Tai village characterizes the original atmosphere of this unique location in the Thai Gulf, with its narrow winding footpaths and old Chinese architecture. The village front faces a sandy beach and is nestled against a lush green tropical hillside with footpaths that meander like a labyrinth up through the village and into the surrounding jungle.

A more contemporary version of the island can be found at places like Sitara Village and Tong Nai Pan Estates, both low-density projects aimed at buyers who are environmentally concerned about the future. Such low-key residential projects have been doing very well on Koh Phangan, even without excessive marketing. They include many eco-alternative features to standard built housing, including solar power options, compulsory water containment, organic waste treatment as well as tree preservation and even a community centre directed at involvement in environmental awareness and island issues.

In addition to the above projects, new residential develpments are now happening around the island in Haad Salad, Chalobaankao and Ban Kai. These developments will be like nothing Koh Phangan has previously seen. All of the developments will include full infrustructure and properties are expected to be offered at half the price or less then comparable residences on Koh Samui.

With such higher scale developments and new upscale restaurants and resorts making their presence felt in the market, locally based property professionals believe that the benchmark is already being set with regard to future development. The developers of these projects hope to learn from the mistakes that have been made in other parts of Thailand and say they will preserve the natural beauty of Koh Phangan, while building quality, eco-friendly homes for a new type of conscious investor.

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Expo Green File Island Life Directory

EXPO

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Samui Rescue is an island-wide emergency service run entirely by volunteers. If you have an accident, lose your bearings or even stumble on a snake in the garden. They are less than 5 minutes away and will arrive ready and equipped to heal and help you.

Established 19 tears ago, Samui Rescue is part of a nationwide network of rescue teams that compensate for Thailand's lack of a public ambulance service. On Thailand the team is 200 strong, around fifty of them women, with more people based on Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. Surprisingly on this island, only three of the volunteers are foreigners. This may be because the organization has never been widely publicized and the Thai volunteers simply get on with the job as a public service.

Samui Rescue charges no fee and even refuse payment if it is offered at the scene of an emergency. The volunteers pay for their own equipment, vehicles and expenses, constantly ref-filling their bags with more bandages, antiseptic creams and saline solution. Additional help comes through donations to buy much needed essentials like oxygen, CPR masks and KED body braces for accident victims. The team also has several ambulances, although not all of them come fully equipped yet as funds are always tight. But what they lack in equipment, they more than compensate for in dedication to duty.

Eight teams are based in various locations around the island. Two at Nathon, also at Raja Ferry Pier, Saket, Lamai, Plai Leam, Mae Nam and Napalarn.

The teams communicate via two-way radio to make sure they cover every accident and emergency swiftly and efficiently. Incredibly, 75% of the Samui Rescue team remain on permanent stand-by. They work, eat and sleep with the radio close to hand.

Alan Brewis has been a rescue volunteer for 2 years and explained how he learned to live on-call. "Even when we're asleep we automatically respond to familiar words and phrases that suggest help is needed," he said. "It's just part of what we do, everyone is totally dedicated to the task. It's a very pure form of motivation and I'm proud to be part of the team."

With 7 or more emergency calls a day to answer, life is never dull for a Samui Rescue volunteer. Incidents range from car accidents to murders, suicides, drownings, snake bites and drunken falls. Local people know the service well and the police also contact Samui Rescue whenever there's an accident reported.

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The team enjoys a particularly close relationship with Nathon Hospital and volunteers even assist the medical staff there when they arrive with accident victims that need emergency care.

Hospitals such as the one in Nathon and Bangkok Samui Hospital also provide training for Samui Rescue volunteers. Newcomers spend up to six months training and shadowing more experienced team members before they are issued with an official Rescue ID card. According to Alan, the biggest challenge they face is dealing with emergencies without the proper equipment, but they have learned to use the tools at hand. "It's my dream to get 200 CPR masks so that every volunteer can administer emergency assistance on the spot," he said. "Of course, we also need more sophisticated equipment like 'Jaws of Life' to cut people from car wrecks, but these are expensive and take time to source. I would be happy just to have the basic equipment covered first."

Donations have certainly helped Samui Rescue buy much needed equipment. Rocky's in Lamai recently paid for a KED body brace, Samui Paradise bought an Ambu (resuscitator) bag, the Rotary Club donated 10 neck braces, SOS made a size-able contribution for oxygen, fire extinguishers and other essentials.

Meanwhile Profmil construction are helping build a small station office for the team based in Napalarn.

They currently use a makeshift awning and therefore have nowhere to store equipment and radio receivers.

Of course, more donations and volunteers are always required. Samui Rescue is a unique and valuable free service for both Thais and foreigners. Without help from these dedicated volunteers, countless people from Samui and around the world would have suffered serious injuries or even died. Helping them means helping yourself.

To request emergency assistance or find out where you can make a donation call 077421 444.

For English speaking help call Alan on 087 263 4371.

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GREEN FILE

RECYCLING MAKES THE WASTE GO ROUND Article courtesy of Samui Villas and Homes Ltd

The ‘three R’s’ – reduce, reuse and recycle make sense. But how much recycling actually takes place in Thailand? Do you recycle, and if so how do you go about it? Countries such as America, Australia and Denmark have set new standards in recent years for recycling waste products, but Thailand has been slower to join the recycling frenzy and has only recently started new initiatives to protect the environment.

In 2004 the Thai government implemented an environmentally friendly waste disposal system to enhance the waste disposal capacity of local authorities. It also promised to promote the private sector’s role in research and development for the recycling of raw material and the use of clean technology. The aim is to minimize 30% of total waste generated within 2009.

But most recyclable materials in Thailand, more than 70% in fact, are collected informally. ‘Sa leng’ or commercial waste collectors act as recyclers and commonly use tricycles or motorbike sidecars to collect waste, which they sell on to recycling plants. Municipal garbage collectors also sort and collect recyclables for sale on an informal basis to supplement their income.

There are also several thousand waste pickers or scavengers who collect waste from large land-fill sites and sell it to make a living.

Currently the materials that are regularly collected for recycling include plastic and glass bottles, food tins and cartons, paper and cardboard. Some of these items are sold to recycling

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factories and some are used directly to make new products. In the technological sector, some companies are starting to offer hardware recycling services. Take in your old computer equipment and it will be considerately disposed of.

It is broken down and the material

classified into different categories such as iron, aluminum, glass and copper.

Education is an important element in encouraging people to recycle. The Green Island Project on Koh Samui was established in 2007 and aims to encourage more environmental awareness. One of the ways they are doing this is creating schemes to educate children and adults about recycling. There is also a new Green Book being distributed to businesses and individuals to raise awaress of environmental issues on Samui. You can down l load or read it online at www.thegreenislandproject.org/greenbook_samui.pdf Here are four simple ways to start recycling and looking after the island: • Don’t accept plastic shopping bags – take your own re-usable bag.

• Use glass drinking water bottles and make sure they are returned to the company to be used again.

• Separate foodstuffs and try composting your organic waste.

• On Koh Samui you can also take your household waste to the incinerator in the south of the island.

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ISLAND LIFE

New Community Spirit The new Samui government is keen to build bridges and instill a spirit of community on the island.

Current projects and initiatives are based on a new kind of open door policy that has previously been impossible.

A new project to create a smarter Samui was recently initiated with a number of local schools being "handed back" to the Thesabaan by Suratthani's Provincial Governor. These schools will become models for future education and the plan is to increase training, improve facilities and introduce approaches that generate a more positive attitude to learning and pride in local culture.

"We have to start making changes now that will effect future generations," said Khun Sinn, advisor to the Mayor. "It's time for people to get involved. To step out of their houses and say "I am part of this island'."

This policy also applies to foreign residents and their families. The Mayor's office is positively seeking ideas and projects that will improve the island, while at the same time putting together a series of long-term strategies to deal with Samui's most urgent issues. "The island is such a blend of cultures," continued Khun Sinn. "We have local people, Thai people from the mainland, foreign residents and tourists all sharing the land and facilities. This mix of experience should be seen as an advantage, not an obstacle. We we need to work together to make Samui into a winning combination."

Other local education projects include a new drug re-habilitation programme for young people, while on the foreign side, the local government recently met with the Australian Ambassador to Thailand and his Consul General to discuss the possibility of a twin city agreement to facilitate educational exchange and generate more cultural and business links.

As a further demonstration of their commitment to help Samui's growing foreign community. The government has also been involved in negotiations surrounding legal proceedings against two large, wayward foreign-run residential developers. When the Samui court ruled in favour of the residents on these troubled developments, government representatives stepped in to help individual homeowners reclaim control of their public amenities and building rights.

The recruitment of Noel Kelly as a foreign liaison officer to the local government has greatly increased co-operation between the foreign and Thai communities on the island. With new initiatives in place and a government that's actively seeking ways to improve standards and practices. The Mayor and his team believe now is the time for both Thai and foreign individuals to bring their skills and ideas to the public table.

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Cleaning Up The Beach On 25th April volunteers joined the Green Island Dive Operators Association to help remove rubbish from the southern end of Big Buddha Beach starting under Seatran Pier.

A fantastic turnout saw 165 people attending the event, with staff from 14 resorts and 11 Samui dive operators. A couple of the resorts also provided lunch and Bangkok Hospital provided water for everyone.

The volunteers cleared plastic, glass, rubber, cans and even speedboat oil filters buried in the sand, which had all been thrown on to the beaches and into the sea having a devastating long-term affect on the Island, the sea and the marine life in it.

The Samui Municipality office kindly provided a dump truck to remove the debris and rubbish and re-cycle it where possible. GIDOA would like to say a big thankyou to all who helped make the event another success.

Nikki makes a Splash Asia’s jet set descended on Samui at the end of April to strut their stuff at the much anticipated Nikki Beach "White Party", which drew a crowd of over 2,000 socialites, VIPs and Jet Setters.

The party of the year has placed the island high on the list of locations for the hugely successful luxury lifestyle brand, enhancing Samui's reputation as a luxurious getaway for wealthy travelers eager to dine, dance and party.

Four spotlight beams welcomed revellers, along with smiling, white-clad hostesses who led guests past dancing elephants, through the ultra chic interior of the Nikki Beach Club to enjoy Bacardi Mojitos and ice cold Grey Goose Vodka.

During the celebrations, revellers were treated to a series of special performances that included acrobats, stilt-walkers, roaming drummers and traditional Thai dancers. A spectacular fireworks display wowed the crowd, while international DJs spun the hippest dance floor tunes.

Nikki Beach Samui is marketed as "the sexiest place on earth" and features an expansive sunset terrace, free form swimming pool, opium beds and beach bars combined with sophisticated ambiance, top-end entertainment, personal service and haute cuisine.

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HOMES DIRECTORY

PROPERTY DEVELOPERS/ ESTATE AGENTS ADVANCE INTER DEVELOPMENTS ADVANTAGE PROPERTY AMANDARA CONDOMINIUM AMARA GOLF VILLAGE BY LYNX DEVELOPMENTS AMERA KOH SAMUI BY SAWADEE GROUP ANGTHONG APARTMENTS AQUALINA SAMUI BAAN FAA SAI BY ANGTHONG HILLS BAAN RAK TALAY BAAN SARNIA BAMBUH CD&P CHAWENG POINT COUNTRYSIDE PROPERTY DD EVOLUTION DHEVATARA PROPERTY DREAMCOAST DEVELOPMENTS DREAM PROPERTY EXOTIQ REAL ESTATE FIRST CHOICE PROPERTY FLAMINGO RESIDENCE FUNCTION HOMES GLOBALLOOKS GRAND HILLS APARTMENTS GREEN CORE HIMMAPAN BEACH SAMUI HALCYON SAMUI PROPERTIES HORIZON HOMES IN ASIA INFINITY K2D KOH SAMUI LAND & HOME KARMA SAMUI KOHABITAT PROPERTY KOH SAMUI PROPERTY KP PROPERTY KALARA INTERNATIONAL PROPERTIES KIRIKAYAN LOTUS TERRACES LYNX MINI GOLF NIASSANCE VILLAS PEARL PROPERTY PHATHONG RESIDENCE PLANTATION HEIGHTS PLATIUM ASIA PROPERTIES PLUMERIA PLACE PROJECT PARTNER PROPERTIES RENT SAMUI.COM ROYAL SAMUI HEIGHTS SAMRAN GARDENS SAMUI PHANGNAN PROPERTIES SAMUI QUICK SALE SAMUI SANCTUARY

077 231 625 081 8926 372 077 349 184 084 386 257 084 745 0720 077 430 326 0843224680 086 256 555 077 430 326 087 280 3838 086 061 4280 081 924 9574 077 425 370 089 866 2062 077 960 927 077 430 326 081 082 9355 077 245 869 077 230 688 081 893 8521 084 308 0967 077 430 540 077 425 578 077 422 248 077 377 018 02 257 0499 077 427 311 077 417 005 077 448 078 089 666 0610 077 247 805 089 474 1837 077 413 901 077 430 399 077 230 606 077 377 018 077 246 036 077 247 867 089 972 3043 084 838 6257 081 787 9148 089 724 8700 081 370 2480 089 813 5715 077 234 203 086 271 3800 077 430 043 077 248 300 077 430 399 077 414 222 089 474 1837 081 979 0679 081 082 4030 084 689 7081

SAMUI ESCAPES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SAMUI VILLAS & HOMES SAGE LAND & HOUSE SAMUI BEACH VILLAGE SAMUI DIAMOND PROPERTIES SAMUI PRESTIGE HOMES SHAMBALA SINTHORANEE PROPERTY STERLING INVESTMENT ASIA RENT SAMUI THAI PROPERTY THAILAND RETREATS THE EMERALD THONGSON THE PLACE THE PHUFAR RESIDENCE THE POOL APARTMENTS THE ROYAL MOUNTAIN THE SEA KOH SAMUI THONG NAI PAN ESTATE THONG NAI PAN VILLAS BY GREEN ISLAND LEISURE TIC WOW PROPERTIES YUM YUM HOUSE

077 245 136 077 430 326 089 016 9750 077 430 326 087 895 4132 077 430 410 077 236 632 077 414 222 077 417 148 077 430 399 086 948 443 077 427 774 081 893 5996 077 430 410 0815359100 081 683 4592 081 956 1636 077 961 982 083 391 8159 086 281 0006 077 247 710 081 079 2642 084 746 2057

LEGAL SERVICES LIMCHAROEN HUGHES & GLANVILLE BIG BUSINESS BLUMENTHAL RICHTER & SUINET CHARNDELL DISPUTE MANAGEMENT MCEVILY & COLLINS MANIT ASSOCIATES NAT ACCOUNTING NAI ADREW PARK NSP & LAWS FIRM SUKHOTHAI INTER LAW TLVH & ASSOIATE THAILAND LAW ONLINE

077 246 185 077 413 764 077 231 732 02 514 9170 077 414 083 077 458 135 077 246 249 081 830 4462 077 458 204 077 430 642 077 245 869 076 279 970

LIGHTING SYSTEMS FIBER OPTICS IHOMES KUNINI: FUTRONIX

077 448 077 081 170 0201 077 230 839

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

152

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 BSMART SYSTEMS KUNINI IHOMES

077 248 362 077 230 839 081 170 0201

JOHNSON HEALTH TECH NITE STONE SAMUI MASTER WATER SEARA SPORTS

076 304 040 077 247 769 077 427 726 076 355 040

ENGINEERING SERVICES AUDIO VISUAL INTERIOR DESIGN EASTERN TECHNICAL ENGINEERING AVIVA TECHWORX PROJECTS

02 685 3676 077 961 910

GARDEN & LANDSCAPE BOTANICAL DESIGNS LANDSCAPING HELICONIA LANDSCAPE GARDEN MAYAN LANDSCAPING

084 315 9742 081 090 5489 087 895 6396

081 968 5324 02 236 9777 077 423 073 077 423 073 02 662 3571-3

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

INSURANCE SERVICES CT TRADING INSURANCE ENSURE ASIA

KITCHEN HARDWARE BMP SYSTEM FURNITURE FRANKE KITCHENS HAFELE & VEKA KITCHEN STUDIO RS VENTURE

077 295 316

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

038 420 618 077 417 015

PROJECT MANAGEMENT DMA FRONTDOOR24 STERLING PROJECT MANAGEMENT TRI ASIA PACIFIC (THAILAND)

085 790 1520 089 097 9516 077 430 303 02 686 3413

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES EXIM STUDIO FIRST CHOICE CONSTRUCTION HAPPY ELEPHANT PALM CONSTRUCTION SEA B.C.

02 934 7921 077421 611 077 422 651 077 425 548 077 960584

MAINTENANCE SERVICE MANAGING SAMUI SQUEAKY CLEAN WINDOWS

077 430 010 087 013 7650

DESIGN SERVICES OTHER 3D ARCHITECT ARCHITECTUAL VISUALISATIONS BOTANICAL DESIGNS LANDSCAPING FIRST CHOICE ARCHITECTURE LIGHTHOUSE CREATIVE DESIGN MEEPAIN DESIGN OPEN DESIGNER

077 238 962 077 247 862 084 315 9742 081 893 8521 077 458 247 089 161 5947 089 890 4960

BANGKOK AIR WAYS FIREWORKS SAMUI LEXOOS SAMUI RESCUE TESCO LOTUS TOGA CAFE TS-TEAK

077 422 512-9 087 263 4371 0819243626 077 421 444/087 263 4371 077 245 400 077 960 616 081 893 4933

PHOTOGRAPHY LEISURE SAMUI CHAONOS DYNAMICS FANTASY AT WORK ORIENTAL LIVING SKYCAM ASIA

081 894 4513 087 270 4972 077 247 675 081 170 0201

HOME SERVICES AUTOMATIC GATE CERIS LAFARGE ROOFING ENSAVER EUROPEAN RAIN GUTTERING FAR THAWEE PORN

081 892 1066 02 586 5600 080 522 4400 077 423 073 077 245 570-1

100 DEGREE EAST DIVE CENTER BABYLON BBC CAFÉ BLUEWATER INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HAVELI INDIAN CUISINE HARLEY DAVIDSON BANGKOK MAGNOLIA SPA OCEAN 11 OCEANS ELITE CHARTERS SEA BREEZE RESTAURANT SENSEDAYSPA

153

077 245 396 085 792 8806 077 425 089 077 484 548 082 8183 416/417 02 934 4855 077 601 133 077 245 134 077 427 244 077 245 255 077 246 295

Haveli a new edition to the Koh Samui fine dining scene welcomes you to savor the flavors of North Indian Mughlai Cuisine. Watch the tantalizing tandoori kebabs being cooked through the open glass kitchen and savor the rich curries and breads prepared by our experienced chefs specially flown in from India for a truly authentic culinary experience.

Directions; Just before Panpreeda Resort & Coral Grand, Bang Rak. Tel: 082 8183 416/417

B B C RESTAURANT รานอาหาร บีบีซี ้

The Best Sunset Restaurant on Koh Samui Thai, European, Seafood & Barbecue – plus live music, cold beer and great cocktails Open 9am to late

Call (077) 425 089

www.bbcrestaurant.com

SenseDaySpa at Secret Garden Resort, Big Buddha Beach Tel: 077 246295

A Spa treatment you can sense and taste This is the perfect way to enjoy red wine without a hangover AND say goodbye to ageing. Wine treatments firm the skin and reduce the signs of ageing because grape seeds contain polyphenol with antioxidant potency twenty times greater than Vitamin C and E. Red Wine Spa - 120 minutes. To begin, a refreshing red wine gel scrub is applied from top to toe which gently removes dead skin and boosts circulation. The therapist then performs a 60 minute deep-tissue massage with red wine massage oil that helps soothe aching muscles. Afterwards, the red wine body mask is applied leaving your skin feeling soft and supple. A complimentary glass of red wine completes your experience.

Open Tuesday to Sunday 11am to 8pm

at Secret Garden Resort, Big Buddha Beach Tel: 077 245255 Open Tuesday to Sunday 9am to 3pm 6:30pm to 10:00pm 155

Light at the end of the Tunnel

Eternal Flame

FREE DELIVERY AROUND SAMUI Bangrak, Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand M:+66(0)8 9772 1589 www.eternalflamesamui.com Email:contact@eternalflamesamui.com 156

The Park Samui Sold as condominium with direct foreign ownership Koh Samui

Take it easy!!

Come & Join Us……Private boat charter to the islands hidden jewels.

T: +66 (0) 77 245 936 M: +66 (0) 8 6282 2983 caz@100degreeseast.com,

Plumeria Place Residence Exclusive Tropical Villas

BLUEWATER SAMUI FOR A BETTER FUTURE FROM NURSERY TO UNIVERSITY

BLUEWATER SAMUI FOR A BETTER FUTURE FROM NURSERY TO UNIVERS

Luxury Yacht Charters with a professional, safety conscientious approach. We endeavor to exceed our guest’s expectations and tailor our charters to suit individual requests, whether exploring remote beaches, hooking into some big game or diving with whale sharks our experienced crew will ensure that your time spent as our guest aboard will be an unforgettable experience.

“La Madrina” Built in 2008, at the Princess Shipyard, Plymouth, England “La Madrina” is a V45 Sports Cruiser with sleek lines, smooth curves and a serious punch.

Powered by twin Volvo 370 hp engines, with a deep v hull “La Madrina” is capable of comfortable speeds up to 35 knots.

Length overall: 47 ft (14.35m) Beam: 13 ft (3.99m) Draft: 3ft 6” (1.07m) Destinations: Koh Tao, Koh Phangan Marine Park, Nang Yuan, Samui Activities: Diving, Snorkeling, Fishing, Coastal Exploration.

Charter Options: Full Day, Half Day, Sunset, Overnight.

Delivering Dream Charters Daily...

Luxury Yacht Charters

Yacht Management Yacht Brokerage For more information please call 077 427 244, 0892886404 33, Moo 4, Bang Rak, Bophut, Koh Samui.

info@oceanselitecharters.com www.oceanselitecharters.com