Samui Phangan Real Estate June July 2011

The Definitive Guide to Samui & Phangan Real Estate

June / July 2011 | ISSN 1686-8838

A measured approach at

THONG NAI PAN ESTATE

Moving Forward

On Koh Phangan www.samui-phanganmagazine.com

Private House for sale Beautiful House on Chaweng Hills in private residence with a breath-taking view

DESCRIPTION

Large, recent, very practicle private house on two floors, situated in a residence, on the hills of Chaweng, the most popular tourist area of the Island of Koh Samui. The house is shaped in a U form, facing East and opened towards a breath-taking view of Chaweng. The main top floor, on road level, is 240 square meters and consists of a large living/dining room, guest toilet, fully equipped kitchen, office, dressing room, bath room with shower and toilet, master bedroom, around a large patio and terrace in the middle of which are a fish pond and a Jacuzzi. On the road side is a very large terrace and side garage. Parking is possible for 3 cars. The second lower floor has two accesses: one from the main floor by a spiral metal stair case, the other from an outside door reached by the stairs going down from the garage to the garden. It consists of a long corridor leading to 2 guest-rooms, a bathroom between the two guestrooms, with 2 washing basins, shower booth with hot water, toilet, a store room and laundry room. House has internet and Ubc Satellite TV. Residence has Security and a common swimming pool.

House is used at the moment for a small Bed and Breakfast business, but can be used only for private residents. (Please look website for more pictures, description and plans) Land title Land size Owner PRICE

: : : :

chanote 500 square meters Thai Company 16,500,000 Baht (open to negociation)

CONTACT: Mobiles:+ 66 (0)81 089 82 49 (for Thai/English), + 66 (0)81 899 17 67 (for English/French) Website: http://www.premiumwanadoo.com/atmanasamui/ Email: manahome@wanadoo.fr

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

KOH S A M UI - NO RTH C OA ST

Superb 7 bedroom/ 6 bath freehold residence enjoying spectacular sea views to Koh Pha Ngan.

Arranged as two self contained villas each with their own lounge and western style kitchen facilities.

Study. Car parking for 4 cars. Beautiful gardens extending to 1.6 rai ( 2500 sqm ) with Nor Sor 3 Gor land title. Large swimming pool and separate children’s pool. Minutes from pristine beach and championship golf course. Total built area of villas 600 sqm plus additional 220 sqm swimming pool complex.

Suitable for multiple uses as residence and investment/ rental property. Wi-Fi enabled.

FREEHOLD PRICE: 34.5 million Baht - Negotiable

Email Contact : Chris1013@hotmail.com ( English ), Supatsara99@hotmail.com ( Thai ) Telephone : 089-785-5084 or 089-233-7363 FOR FURTHER DETAILS AND VIEWING

Island Update

Moving forward on Koh Phangan

This issue, the island update looks at development on Koh Phangan. We spoke to Mr. Pipit Ratanaraks or Khun Phoom, a member of the Surat Thani Provincial Administration and Executive Chairman of the Department of Tourism Promotion Division of Provincial Administration.

Mr. Pipit Ratanaraks

Khun Poom has been involved in the development plan of Koh Phangan for 7 years. He told us that the growth of the economy of Koh Phangan has been quite slow because most of the island is designated as forest reserve. Koh Phangnan residents are keen to protect nature and keep the island as it is forever, but growth is still taking place based on four main strategies.

Infrastructure: The roads are being expanded and improved.

Government tap water can now be used in many areas of the island.

Security Local police are active on the island to ensure public safety and CCTV has been installed in many areas. The island’s non-profit organization, Koh Phangnan Rescue Center in Thong Sala is also on 24 hour stand-by for any emergencies.

Environment With 75 per cent of the total area of Koh Phangnan designated as forest reserve, the remaining 25 percent is earmarked for local development. Koh Phangan residents are very keen to take care of the environment.

They also believe the environment is a major tourist attraction and it should be preserved for the benefit of the next generation.

The Royal Pha-Ngan Ship Museum

8

Participation Local government leaders and entrepreneurs are also involved in the island’s future.

The government has provided budgets for local development together with projects for environment protection. An island wide campaign to ensure garbage separation was used to raise the awareness of conservation. Training relating to environmental protection is also being taught in schools.

Infrastructure improvements such as the development of water resources and electricity systems like windmill power generation and solar cell energy are also now used on the island.

Once the electricity capacity is enough, the extra power will be used in ways such as to filter saltwater to freshwater which will not cause any environmental impact. The government is also proud to announce that Koh Phangan is awaiting approval as an official protected National Park.

Anther new project scheduled for the near future is the “The Royal Pha-Ngan Ship Museum”.

A ship was given to the Thai Royal Navy by the United States of America and named “Royal Phangan”. The vessel was retired several years ago and the local leaders on Koh Phangan requested to keep the ship as a memorial for children and visitors alike. To make the most of the ship, the local government will transform the ship into a museum and public library.

With regards to budgets and future construction, the government is also brainstorming a wider landscape plan for Koh Phangan. They have a budget for the port, to create proetection from storm waves and also funds for other projects, including a garden or park. These projects will cost around 200 million baht and will help develop a more sustainable and livable community.

As a representative of Koh Phangan, Mr. Poom invites visitors to enjoy the island and absorb its traditions as well as its natural beauty.

9

Legal Update

Liability for

Construction Defects In real estate acquisitions, in particular when it comes to new buildings, an important part of the process is managing issues related to construction defects. Such defects may range from small snags to major problems. From the legal point of view, the responsibility for the rectification of the defects stands in the foreground.

The defects warranty by the contractor (in the case of a construction agreement) or seller (in the case of a house sale and purchase agreement) includes an obligation to provide the building in a condition that was agreed upon in the contract between the parties, including exhibits such as copies of construction drawings, bill of quantities, etc. The warranty applies for a certain period of time, the defects liability period, which starts with the acceptance and handover of the building.

• Delivery and acceptance of construction works

If defects of a new building are discovered at an early stage, before or upon delivery of the works, there are generally two options for the employer of construction works:

• The construction works are rejected and not accepted as complete, due to major defects and/or works that are not according to the contractual specifications.

• The construction works are accepted as complete, however a list of minor defects is submitted to the developer for rectification and repair. In this case, these defects would be considered notified and the defects liability period would stop running, i.e. the liability period would not be an issue anymore for the employer with regards to these defects.

It should be noted that the use of a house by the employer in principle can constitute an implied acceptance. An implied acceptance however requires that the purchaser’s actions create the impression that he really wants to accept the construction works as defect free.

• Defects notice

If a defect is discovered after delivery and acceptance of the works, the developer, or seller respectively, should be notified immediately. Usually, the contract will set forth formal requirements of the notice which need to be observed, in many cases a specific and detailed procedure is stipulated in the contract. If the contract does not address this issue, the applicable Thai laws then need to be reviewed to determine the right procedure. Accordingly, the notification should be sent by registered mail and a reasonable time period should be given for rectification. The defects should be identified in a “defects list”.

10

The defects liability period is inhibited upon delivery of a formal notice. Therefore, the developer will still be liable for rectification of the defects if the notice period expires after delivery of the notice.

• Defects liability period

Primary means to determine the duration of the liability period for defects is again the agreement between the parties and its specific terms and if it does not address the issue, pertinent Thai laws need to be reviewed.

For construction works, the rules for the hire of works according to Section 587 ff. of the Thai Civil and Commercial Code (“CCC”) apply. According to Section 601 CCC, no action against the contractor can be entered into later than one year after the defect appeared. According to Section 600 CCC, the contractor is liable for defects of a building (except wooden building) within only five years after delivery of the work. This is the maximum defects liability period from delivery, also in the case of hidden defects. The terms of Section 600 CCC only apply if the contract does not say otherwise.

Section 600 II CCC sets forth that no limitation shall apply if the contractor has concealed the defect.

For the purchase of an existing house, as opposed to the hire of construction works, Sections 472 ff. CCC, apply. No action for liability for defects can be entered into later than one year after discovery of the defect. It is however important to note that the defect must have existed at the time of delivery.

If the duration of the liability is reduced to an unduly short period, consumer protection laws may to be taken into consideration as well.

• Liability period in case of purchase of a condominium unit

For the defects liability for units of a new condominium unit, specific rules apply. They are set forth in the Condominium Act and its respective regulations. An official template for condominium sale and purchase agreements, issued by the Ministry of Interior, sets forth a minimum defects liability period of two years for non-structural defects and five years for structural defects.

These minimum requirements are compulsory and cannot be abrogated by agreement.

Consequently, shorter defects liability periods would not be honored by a court and replaced by the minimum periods.

The standard agreement further sets forth an obligation of the seller to remedy defects within a time period of 30 days.

Please note that the aforementioned only applies for new freehold condominium units, not for resale transactions or apartment buildings without a condominium license or for leasehold interest in condominium units.

By Fabian Doppler, DFDL Mekong Legal and Tax Advisers, Tel. +66 (0) 77 484 510 samui@dfdlmekong.com, www. dfdlmekong.com

11

Legal Update

THE

CHARACTERISTICS AND POTENTIAL ADVANTAGES OF INVESTING IN

CONDOMINIUM UNITS IN KOH SAMUI AND KOH PHANGNAN

The most secure and straightforward option to foreign investors seeking to acquire an interest in real estate in Thailand is to purchase a foreign freehold condominium in a legally registered condominium building. The Condominium Acts provide a number of legal protections to buyers which are not afforded to buyers of other interests in real estate in Thailand. A number of reputable property developers are in the process of launching luxury condominium projects in Koh Samui presenting exciting investment opportunities for investors seeking a second home in the region. Christian Glanville, Partner in the law firm Limcharoen, Hughes & Glanville (Samui) examines the characteristics of condominium projects and identifies some important issues for would-be investors in condominium projects.

In accordance with the Condominium Act BE (2522) (1979) (as amended), foreign investors are permitted to own up to 49% of the private living space of a condominium building with a title akin to “freehold title”. The remaining 51% of the private living space of a condominium building may only be owned by Thai individuals or qualifying Thai companies. The take up of condominium units by Thai persons in resort areas such as Koh Samui is usually much less than in urban areas such as Bangkok, consequently, condominium units falling within the quota of units which must be owned by Thai persons are often leased to foreigner investors.

The land upon which the condominium building is built, the car parking areas, internal access roads, common facilities and utilities of a condominium project must be owned by a corporate entity called a Condominium Juristic Person. The Condominium Juristic Person (“CJP”) must adopt specific governing rules in the form set out in the Condominium Act which must be registered with the land office upon completion of construction of the condominium building.

The governing rules must set out (amongst other matters), the objectives of the CJP, the duties of the board of directors and the procedure for convening owners’ meetings. The CJP must appoint a manager to be responsible for the day-to-day management of the project.

The most recent amendment to the Condominium Act in 2008 provides considerable additional protections to condominium buyers which are not available to buyers of other legal interests in real estate in Thailand. The sale and purchase agreement in a newly built condominium project must contain standard “benchmark” terms and conditions. If the sale and purchase agreement 12

contains any terms which fall short of the “benchmark” minimal contractual provisions, such provisions shall be unenforceable. In addition the amendments stipulate that developers are legally bound by representations made in advertising and marketing materials, are no longer permitted to charge administration fees in the event of an assignment of the condominium unit by the buyer and permitted contractual extensions of construction periods in sale and purchase agreements are limited to a one year extension.

In both off-plan and re-sale purchase transactions it is important for the investor to undertake comprehensive due diligence into the both the land and the building structure before any payments are made to the Seller. A detailed title investigation tracing the history of the legal ownership of the land should be commissioned and should cover the entirety of the project land. It is important to note that a condominium building can only be built upon land which has “Chanote” title. Independent enquiries should also be made to determine whether or not full rights of access exist in leading to the project land.

Further independent enquiries should be made to establish the local building and environmental regulations which apply to the project land. Ministerial regulations restrict the height and footprint size of buildings depending upon the location of the project land. It is important to note that in accordance with planning laws in Koh Samui, the construction of condominium buildings is prohibited in certain zones. Accordingly, buyers must ensure that the construction of condominiums is not prohibited by ministerial regulation in the applicable “Zone” in which the project land is located.

In order to qualify to own a condominium unit in Thailand, the funds utilized to purchase the condominium unit must have been remitted from outside of Thailand in foreign currency.

Evidence of the remittance of foreign currency into the Kingdom must be provided to the land officer in order to register the ownership of the condominium to the foreign national. Upon registration of the transfer of the condominium unit to the buyer, the land office issue Title Or. Chor 2 evidencing the freehold ownership of the condominium unit to the buyer.

It is important for foreign investors to note that whilst there is no restriction upon the number of condominium units which can be purchased and owned by a foreign investor, the letting or renting of condominium units by foreigners is prohibited under Schedule 3 of the Foreign Business Act unless the foreign investor obtains an Alien Business License (which will not be issued for the sole purpose of renting condominium units).

This article is intended to provide investors with a brief insight into the key legal aspects of condominiums in Thailand. Condominiums are the safest, easiest and most secure real estate investments for foreign buyers/investors. As in any jurisdiction, it is important to appoint an independent legal representative to assist you to conduct the necessary due diligence checks into the land, and building and to ensure that the documents provided by the developer/seller are in accordance with the Condominium Acts of Thailand.

This article was written by Christian Glanville, Partner of Limcharoen Hughes & Glanville (Samui) for further information, please contact our Koh Samui offices on 07 724-6185 or e-mail Christian@Limcharoen.com. Other offices located in Bangkok, Phuket, Ho Chi Minh City, Bali and coming soon, Hong Kong.

13

Restaurant & Residence

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

Phathong Residence

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

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

* References available from existing clients.

All direct from owner- smooth transaction guaranteed.

Contact: Khun Jeed Mobile + 66(0) 89 813 5715 Phathong Residence 23/3 moo 4, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320. Thailand

info@samuitropicalland.com www. samuitropicalland.com

8

136

Soil 104

Living on Koh Samui & Koh Phangan

34 Koh Samui Map 35 Living on Koh Samui 38 Personal Profile:

Advance Inter Development 120 Koh Phangan Map 121 Living on Koh Phangan

Property 8 Island Update 10 Legal Update:

Liability for Construction Defects 12 Legal Update:

Investing In Condominium Units 52 Developer Profile:

Thong Nai Pan Estate 56 Main Feature: Samui Private Success 66 Building a Home 68 Building Regulation 70 Villas Letting 71 Villas Letting Agents 78 Tax Update

Legal Tips

80 Land Title Deeds 81 Chanote Land Title 82 Tips for starting a new business: English 84 Tips for starting a new business: Chinese 86 Tips for starting a new business: German 88 Tips for starting a new business: Russain 90 Tips for starting a new business: French 92 Visa and Work Permits

House & Home Tips

36 Shopping 100 Architect’s Talk:

How to Find a Water Leak in Your House 102 Interior Tips:

Get Your Clutter Under Control 104 Garden Guide: The Dirt on Soil 106 Home Maintenance:

Considering Building

Island Life

108 Smart Samui: Beauty of Stone 132 Expo: The Samui Regatta 136 Green File: Alternative Energy 138 Island Life

Home Directory

140 Home Directory Koh Samui Developers and Estate Agents

2 Beach Republic Real Estate 4 Private Villas 5 Mandalay Samui Developments 6 Sea View Properties 7 Laan Dara Samui 14 Horizon Homes 20 Ocean 11 Beach Front Residences 21 Phathong Residences 28 Samui Villas and Homes 40 Advance Inter Development 42 Bayan Villas 44 Palm Group Asia 60 The Emerald Tongson

62 Palm Greek Residence 64 Bang Por Villa 131 Mangrove Villa 142 Rock Samui 144 Mandalai Hotel 145 The Park Samui: Tropiculture 146 Siam Immo Company

Koh Phangan Developers and Estate Agents 61 Thong Nai Pan Estate 124 Sage Land & House

Legal & Accounting Services

76 IPM Samui 93 DFDL Mekong Legal & Tax Advisers 94 Limcharoen Hughes & Glanville

Finance Services 49 GFS Australasia

Architect & 3D

50 SIL Architects

Audio Visual Interior Design

51 Creative System Projects 98 AV Installation System

Properties Services

48 Managing Samui 51 Creative System Projects 72 Nemtek Electric Fencing 74 European Rain Guttering 99 Nite Stone 126 Ecomate 142 Jman Ltek - LED Lighting 143 Infinity Home Management

Interior Design

77 I.P.M. Samui 96 Surat Baansuy

Kitchen & Hardware

77 I.P.M. Samui 75 Häfele

Sport Engineering 127/129 Seara Sports

Swimming Pools

110 Desjoyaux Pools 111/115 Siam Pools Shop 112 TSP Swimming Pools 114 CP Pools

Security

51 Creative System Projects 95 B-Smart Systems

Construction & Project Management

33 RS Built 46 Palm Construction 150 Samui Villas & Homes

Photography

118 Fantasy@work

Leisure Samui

20 Ocean 11 Beach Front Restaurant 116 100 Degrees East Dive Team 128 Tesco Lotus 142 LomPrayah Hight Speed Catamaran 148 BBC Café

Management & Editorial

Thong Nai Pan Estate www.tnpestate.com

Distributed at Samui Airport & Suwannaphume Airport Courtesy

Published By: Satayu Publishing Co.,Ltd. จัดทำ�นิตยสารโดย Managing Director: Yuwares (Yu) กรรมการผู้จัดการ (66) 08 9772 1589 yu@satayu.com Sales & Marketing: Jiratchaya Nasompak(Fai) ฝ่ายขายและการตลาด จิรัชยา นาสมภักดิ์ (ฝ้าย)

(66) 08 5794 7696 sales@satayu.com Associate Editor: Julz K. Writer: Julz K. Legal Advisor: Surin Puangpakdee ที่ปรึกษาด้านกฎหมาย from NSP & Laws Firm Publication Design: Satayu Publishing Co.,Ltd. Graphic Design: Jeadsada Yeanyong Accounting: Yuwares (Yu) ฝ่ายบัญชี (66) 08 9772 1589 Distribution: Satayu Publishing Co.,Ltd. จำ�หน่ายและวางนิตยสาร Somsak Nasompak

Publisher License: ISSN 1686-8838 เลขมาตรฐานสากลประจำ�นิตยสาร ใบอนุญาตจดแจ้งการพิมพ์ สศก ๑๔ นศ/๒/๒๕๕๓ Publisher Office: Satayu Publishing Co.,Ltd. สำ�นักงาน 34/9 Moo 4, Bophut, Koh Samui,

Suratthani 84320 Thailand.

Tel/Fax (66) 077 484 616

Mobile: (66) 08 9772 1589 Homepages: www.samui-phanganmagazine.com Printing & Colour separation: Amarin Printing and Publishing Co.,Ltd สถานที่จัดพิมพ์ 65/101-103 Chaiyaphruk Rd., Taling Chan,

Bangkok Thailand 10170

Tel. 66 (0) 2422 9000 Disclaimer: All the information, discussions and opinions contained herein are not to be a comprehensive study nor to provide advice, legal or otherwise and should not under any circumstances be used as a substitute for specific advice, legal or otherwise, in respect of individual situation and circumstances.

Welcome to the new issue of Samui Phangan Real Estate Magazine As the island gears up for another busy season next month many companies in the tourism sector have been focussed on their marketing strategies. In this issue, our Main Feature looks at some of the sectors that are doing particularly well attracting new clients to Koh Samui.

Koh Phangan is also looking forward to welcoming plenty of visitors and our developer profile focuses on a residential estate offered to investors on one of the island’s most stunning locations - Thong Nai Pan. We also update you on other aspects of Samui’s sister island in our Living sections.

Samui and Phangan continue to attract not only first time visitors, but also those on repeat trips to the island and even long stay and permanent residents. To make your life’s easier on Samui, we therefore offer practical tips on your house and home, as well as legal advice and guides to the latest happenings.

Through our practical guides and features, the aim is to support and promote the businesses and individuals that make the most of this island while also looking after the island they call home.

ยินดีต้อนรับทุกท่านสู่นิตยสารสมุย-พะงันฉบับล่าสุดค่ะ ฤดูกาลท่องเที่ยวที่จะมาถึงในเดือนหน้านี้ ทำ�ให้หน่วยงานภาคธุรกิจการท่องเที่ยว หลายๆ บริษัท มีการวางแผนการตลาดเพื่อรองรับจำ�นวนนักท่องเที่ยวที่เพิ่มมาก ขึ้น นิตยสารฉบับนี้ของเรา จึงให้ความสำ�คัญกับเรื่องของกลยุทธ์การตลาดในการ ดึงดูดลูกค้าใหม่ๆ ในขณะเดียวกัน เกาะพะงันก็เป็นอีกเกาะหนึ่งที่กำ�ลังตั้งตารอคอยต้อนรับผู้ มาเยือนเช่นกัน เราพบว่านักพัฒนาอสังหาริมทรัพย์บนเกาะพะงัน กำ�ลังมุ่งเน้น การพัฒนาที่อยู่อาศัยแก่นักลงทุน บนหนึ่งในทำ�เลที่สวยงามที่สุดของเกาะพะงัน นั่นคือ ท้องนายปาน และในคอลัมน์ เกาะพะงัน เรายังนำ�เสนอข้อมูลด้านอื่น ๆ ของ เกาะพะงัน ซึ่งเปรียบเสมือนเกาะพี่เกาะน้องของเกาะสมุยอีกด้วย เราคงปฏิเสธไม่ได้ว่าเกาะสมุยและเกาะพะงัน ยังคงมีเสน่ห์ในการดึงดูดผู้มาเยือน อยู่เสมอ ไม่เพียงแต่เฉพาะผู้ที่เดินทางมาที่นี่เป็นครั้งแรกเท่านั้น แต่ยังรวมไปถึง นักท่องเที่ยวที่เดินทางมาที่นี่ครั้งแล้วครั้งเล่า ผู้ที่มาพักอยู่นานๆ หรือผู้ที่อยู่อาศัย บนเกาะเป็นการถาวรอีกด้วย และเพื่อเป็นแนวทางให้คุณใช้ชีวิตได้ง่ายดายขึ้น นิตยสารของเราจึงนำ�เสนอเคล็ดลับในการดูแลบ้านและที่อยู่อาศัยของคุณ ตลอด จนให้คำ�แนะนำ�ด้านกฎหมายและนำ�เสนอเหตุการณ์ล่าสุดต่างๆบนเกาะอีกด้วย จากการนำ�เสนอข้อมูลที่สามารถนำ�ไปใช้ได้จริงผ่านทางคอลัมน์ประจำ�และบท สัมภาษณ์พิเศษ นิตยสารของเรายังคงยึดมั่นในวัตถุประสงค์หลักเดิม นั่นคือ การ สนับสนุนและส่งเสริมทั้งภาคธุรกิจและเอกชนบนเกาะแห่งนี้ รวมถึงมีส่วนร่วมใน การดูแลรักษาเกาะแห่งนี้ เกาะที่พวกเราทุกคน เรียกว่า บ้าน

บรรณาธิการ

BANG PO – 4 BR

HG063

Price : 17,500,000 THB This delightfully spacious villa is centrally located in the quiet hamlet of Ban Tai, just 250 meters from the beautiful beach and various resorts.

Four air-conditioned bedrooms with three and a half bathrooms, master with Jacuzzi bathtub. 11m x 5m swimming pool with feature waterfall wall. Tropical gardens surround this beautiful villa. Fully fitted and furnished to the highest standards and includes 6mb wifi internet and separate satellite TV systems in all bedrooms, CCTV security system installed.

BAAN DALAH

HB 027

Price : 39,000,000 THB

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

MAE NAM - 4 BR

HB045

Price: 36,500,000 THB

THE HEADLAND VILLA

HB 047

Price: 29,250,000 THB

This is a truly exceptional villa with an interesting layout which is enhanced by an exquisite collection of furniture and artwork.

Having entered this private and exclusive luxury estate you’ll be immediately aware of the overall quality, beauty and the care taken to keep these homes in pristine condition.

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

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

www.epsamui.com

Email: sales@epsamui.com

BANG RAK - 4 BR

HV088

Price: 20,000,000 THB

HB057

Price: 18,000,000 THB

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

Rooftop area set up as BBQ deck with large sitting sofa set for party time.

BANG PO - 2 BR

BANG PO - 2 BR

HG062

Price: 11,000,000 THB

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

HG061

Price: 15,000,000 THB

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

CHOENG MON - 3 BR

BOPHUT - 5 BR

HG059

Price: 7,400,000 THB

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

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

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

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

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

www.epsamui.com

Email: sales@epsamui.com

TALING GNAM - 3.5 rai

B155

Price: 60,000,000 THB

V172

Price: 52,000,000 THB

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

BAAN TALAY - 1.25 rai

PHANG KA - 6.5 RAI

B149

Price: 19,000,000 THB

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

CHAWENG NOI - 6.5 RAI

V151

Price: 35,750,000 THB

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

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

A rare opportunity- enjoy the best of both worlds that are sea view and beachfront land.

It comes with concrete roads enbling access to the land. This plot size of 6.50 rai is located in an exclusive part of the island in Chaweng Noi area (North East of Samui island). It has fantastic views with a beautiful calm beach so that

BOPHUT - 1,200 sqm.

V169

Price: 4,000,000 THB

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

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

www.epsamui.com

Email: sales@epsamui.com

PHANG KA - 6.5 RAI Location Land Size Price Ownership

V172

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

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

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

www.epsamui.com

Email: sales@epsamui.com

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

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

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

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

www.epsamui.com

Email: sales@epsamui.com

Koh Samui Map

34

Living on Samui

Koh Samui’s enduring appeal as one of the world’s top holiday destinations has inspired many people to relocate to the island, either choosing to make it their permanent home or spending extended amounts of time living what those in less blessed locations would understandably consider an idyllic lifestyle.

In the last ten years, the island has developed into a full service destination and the range of facilities, amenities and services has therefore expanded considerably, making Samui one of very few places in the world where you can literally choose your preferences, both in terms of the way you pass your days and nights and also the amount of money you want to spend.

Although the island’s tourist and residential worlds often collide, they can also be very distinctive. But in terms of choice, both groups benefit from the island’s incredibly diverse and eclectic offerings, whether in terms of accommodation, retail, dining, entertainment, health or adventure. As a long term resident on Samui, if you stop to consider the sheer extent of comfort and convenience on offer around the island today it’s sometimes difficult to remember that you are living on a small island in the Gulf of Thailand. As soon as you leave the beach you are spoilt for choice - shopping malls such as Tesco Lotus and Big C stock all the daily necessities and more, specialist outlets like Tops Supermarket and Villa in Lamai offer indulgent imported goods, while 7Elevens, Family Mart outlets and local shops make impulse buying a an easy option, even at 4 in the morning. A selection of fresh food markets also cater to an ever growing Thai community with everything from rice by the kilo to fresh Tiger Prawns sold by the kilo at what are very reasonable prices when compared to the deli counters of most western supermarkets.

For those who prefer to dine out, Samui has developed a deserved reputation a s gourmet paradise with an enviable choice of restaurants, their menus often created by chef’s of international repute and wine lists that rival those in some of the world’s top city bistros.

Excellent Thai food is also readily enjoyed, either roadside at one of the island’s many affordable local eateries or in more opulent surroundings accompanied by five star service and stylised, cultural designs and entertainment.

The Samui party scene has also developed in leaps and bounds in the last few years, sophisticated Beach Clubs like Beach republic and Nikki Beach serve top class food and beverage choices in chic poolside surroundings. They also host regular parties with international DJs and performers. Western style pubs and nightclubs line the popular tourist strips, with sports bars like The Islander and Bondi in Chaweng showing live international sporting events.

Those in search of a more healthy, green lifestyle on Samui can easily avoid the tourist bustle. The quiet beaches on the island’s south coast still feel relatively untouched by development and many small residential communities have emerged in places like Baan taling Ngam and Lip Noi, where the pace of life is slow and the tropical landscape still untroubled by crowds and commerce. Spas and wellness centres offer a wide range of treatments and therapies to rejuvenate tired souls, while yoga, meditation and other more spiritually inspired activities can be studied and practiced at various centres around the island.

Families are increasingly well catered for on Samui and the island now boasts its very own International School (ISS), as well as several other learning institutions catering to to both Thai and expatriate students. The island’s clubs and organisations often organise family friendly gatherings, regular Walking Streets offer festival style outings and there are also several restaurants that cater for children’s parties.

With so much on offer to residents, Samui has now become as much a place to live as it is a place to visit. It is now a multi-faceted residential island with an enviable range of services and facilities to choose from, all of which combine to offer permanent and long stay ‘Samuians” one of the most appealing and diverse tropical lifestyle experiences on the planet.

35

Shopping

1

2

3

1 Candle Holder Tel: Nakalina 083 592 1006, 2 Soap Holder Tel: Nite stone 077 247 769 3 & 8 Candle Holder Tel: Eternal Flame 089 772 1589 4 Wall DĂŠcor Tel: Nakalina 083 592 1006 5,6 & 7 Room DĂŠcor Tel: Nakalina 083 592 1006

36

6

5 4

8

7

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

37

Personal Profile

38

39

Developer Profile

52

Thong Nai Pan Yai Beach, Viewing from Thong Nai Pan Estate Luxury Living Photo by Somsak Nasompak

Koh Phangan

Paradise Preserved on

Koh Phangan is developing into a sophisticated, global holiday destination that appeals to those who value peace, ecology and natural beauty over modern, urban living. Thong Nai Pan Estate is a unique residential project on Koh Phangan, overlooking one of the island’s most beautiful beaches.

53

The Thong Nai Pan Estate offers buyers 3-bedroom, single storey villas and 5-bedroom, 2 storey villas, as well as a dedicated clubhouse, which boasts a reception area, management office, restaurant and bar. Clients can also design their own interiors according to their needs and taste, so the 3 and 5 bedroom options provide a benchmark for price. The addition of an oversized communal, infinity edged pool, children’s splash pool and playground make this an appealing choice for families looking for the perfect second home investment.

The name of the headland is “Laem Tham Thong Rak” which means “The headland of the golden love cave” and the development sits 300 metres above the soft white sands, with full road access and amenities in place. The houses boast simple but elegant designs, with a focus on top quality building materials and techniques. In addition, to suit the location, they also feature important

54

environmentally friendly features, such as solar powered water heating, rainwater collection systems and recycling measures.

To service the villas, a large common area features a large infinity-edged swimming pool, a barbeque area and a clubhouse with restaurant, bar, and reception. The complex will be run like an exclusive resort with all the facilities that go with such accommodation, including satellite TV in every villa, room service and security. With the access road complete, 3-phase, high voltage electricity and a permanent water supply, Thong Nai Pan Estate is ready to set a new benchmark for small scale, residential developments on the island.

Thong Nai Pan Estate is a new class of development for Koh Phangan, providing quality residential alternatives with minimal impact on the island’s delicate natural

environment. The developers believe that the chance to live in comfort while remaining close to the beauty of nature will appeal to buyers in search of a more balanced, uplifting lifestyle, as well as those who want to spread their time between a busy life and a more relaxed, idyllic existence.

For more information contact Mr. Geir Isaksen, Thong Nai Pan Estate, sales@thongnaipanestate.com, www.tnpestate.com + 66 (0) 833 918 159 Photo Courtesy of Steven Willeboordse

55

Main Feature

Samui’s

private success

Koh Samui has faced some tough times in recent months. Unseasonal flooding in April caused damage to a number of properties and businesses around the island and also caused a slump in visitor numbers at a time when the island’s economy was already suffering from the effects of a world economic slowdown. But resilience appears to be - Samui’s middle name, and its undeniable appeal for visitors from around the globe, combined with the creative approaches applied by the many resorts and property companies on the island, means that once again, the future is looking positive, especially at the more exclusive end of the market.

56

Baan Kilee Photo Courtesy of www.thesignaturecollection.com

Personalised luxury The private villa sector is a good example of the way Samui has swiftly adapted to international demand while at the same time making the most of the island’s appealing environment, diversity and natural assets. investors worldwide continue to be lured by luxury properties on Koh Samui. The infrastructure, services and amenities have steadily improved to keep pace with demand from both domestic and international investors and as the stock of properties has increased, the island has also become one of the most popular options in South East Asia for high-end villa rentals, with an ever expanding customer base and increasingly powerful brand recognition.

Nowadays on Koh Samui, those in search of the ultimate private island escape enjoy a vast choice of luxury villas for rent, with properties catering to all tastes and budgets. A significant number of top class residences have been built in the forested hinterland and these combine every contemporary comfort with tropical surroundings and spectacular views. Samui also boasts more than its fair share of beachside villas, which are particularly popular with those in search of an idyllic break or even a wedding by the sea.

Most of the island’s rental villas are now fully serviced and professionally managed, either by established management companies or by experienced hotel chains. The demand for family orientated residences both for short and long term stays is rising year on year, and agents both on and off the island now boast an impressive portfolio of properties to offer prospective guests from around the globe.

57

Villa Mia Photo Courtesy of www.samuivillasandhomes.com

“2010 was definitely a difficult year for everyone but since Christmas we have seen things return to normal in terms of bookings”, says Wayne Hue, Director of Sales and Marketing for Samui Phuket Villas and Homes. “ We recently signed contracts with some major travel companies like Kuoni. This is a sure sign that people now consider private villas alongside hotels and resorts, so Samui is becoming one of the most popular choices in this respect.”

According to the team at Samui Villas and Homes, the last year has seen a definite shift in demand when it comes to private villa rentals on Samui. The number of bookings for villa weddings has doubled since last year and this also means group bookings are increasingly common, with people requiring more than one villa and also asking for properties that are close to each other so they can gather easily for the special event. Other than size and proximity, the main factors affecting people’s choices include services that add value such as on-site service staff and villa concierge to make bookings and recommendations. Price is also a significant factor, so deals and promotions attract more bookings. The busiest periods apart from Christmas and New Year are the Easter break in April and May, as well as the traditional European holiday season in July and August. People generally W Retreat book their villa around three months in advance, although last minute options are also increasingly popular, especially if there is a discount offered.

Smarter resorts To capitalise on the demand for personalised holidays, a number of resorts on the island also now offer villa style accommodation. Top end hotels such as the Four Seasons, 58

Six Senses and the recently opened Banyan Tree all offer their guests a range of unique, bespoke services, including personal butlers, private charter boat trips and tailor made wedding packages, which make their stay on Samui a particularly special experience. Many of these resorts also include private residences, which are attached to the hotel and allow owners to benefit from all the facilities offered to short stay guests, as well as a number of more exclusive options. The W Koh Samui takes things a step further with its ‘Whatever/ Whenever®’ concierge service that claims to provide whatever you want, whenever you want it (as long as it’s legal). “ The W concept attracts HNWI from around the world, particularly from Hong Kong , Singapore, Europe, China, Russia and India looking for a second or third home,” says Richard Skene, the new Residences’ Director of Sales & Marketing. “W Koh Samui has been designed as a modern paradise where the day is dedicated to individual moments in which guests can slip away from themselves and each other to refuel for what comes next.”

Such total lifestyle concepts are echoed in the island’s Beach Clubs, with popular venues like Beach Republic in Lamai and Nikki Beach in Lipa Noi also combining a chic, social scene with plush accommodation, acclaimed international cuisine and an attractive beachside ambiance. Competition is fierce, so each these different brand is developing carefully crafted strategies to attract particular types of types of guests and investors, with high style and modern designs only part of the overall appeal.

Part of the whole Obviously such exclusive luxury is only part of the broader picture when it comes to Samui’s popularity as a destination. The shift in global wealth to the East means that many resorts are now also proactively marketing to places like China and South Korea, where group bookings and comprehensive holiday packages appeal to Asian tourists in search Samudra of a full service break. It is also clear that despite Photo Courtesy of www.samuivillasandhomes.com the economic slowdown, there’s no shortage of personal wealth in the west and increasing costs in many European countries mean Thailand still has the advantage in terms of both value for money and quality of accommodation and services. On Samui in particular, improvements in the provision of important amenities such as healthcare and education also mean the island can now match the expectations of foreign retirees, long-stay visitors and second home buyers. This gives businesses broad scope Villa Mullion Cove to develop and target their products to the high Photo Courtesy of www.samuivillasandhomes.com number of potential clients that are still drawn by the island’s natural beauty and broad spectrum appeal. Consideration for the environment is also increasingly seen as a strong selling point, and people are now prepared to pay a premium for the chance to spend time with nature, especially without sacrificing home comforts.

Resorts, villas and property developers are already successfully implementing marketing strategies that will take Samui into new markets and point the island in a direction that ensures its continued growth. The concepts that are doing well are those that suit the island and its environment, while also offering visitors a more personal experience.

59

The Emerald Tongson

The Emerald Tongson Development results from a vision to create an innovative design with iconic modern, yet tropical architecture in an environmentally sensitive haven. This exclusive ocean front compound of only four 2 bedroom pool villas along one of the most inspiring shore lines of Choengmons Tongson Bay presents a new cool approach to exclusive tropical living.

Features: • Car park with 4 lots • Common entrance lounge • Built to marine environment standard • Low consumption LED light features • Copper/Silver mineral pool treatment • Total villa size: 200-220m2

Original Real Estate co.,ltd.

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

8/10 Moo 5 Bophut Koh Samui 84320 Thailand

NOW SELLING !

Picture by : Steven Willeboordse

Thong Nai Pan Estate sales@thongnaipanestate.com

www.tnpestate.com

Thailand: +66 (0) 833 918 159 Norway: +47 90 15 70 57

Luxury Living in Koh Phangan

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

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

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

Building a Home

66

67

Building Regulations

68

69

Holiday Villas

70

71

Tax Update

ILL-ADVISED TO USE A THAI LIMITED COMPANY TO OWN A HOLIDAY HOME ( PART II ) In our previous article we outlined the potential negative corporate income tax consequences where a Thai company is used to own a holiday home in Thailand.

We also detailed the potential personal income tax liability of a director using such holiday home as his residence as well as the potential withholding tax liabilities that the Thai company itself would incur as a result of such use. Income and withholding taxes are national taxes which are collected by the Thai Revenue Department pursuant to the Revenue Code of Thailand. However, there is also a local authority empowered to collect an additional tax payment for which such a Thai company may be liable. In this second part of our two part article, we take a closer look at this local tax, the House and Land Tax (“HLT”) and its consequences for a Thai company owning a holiday home in Thailand. Also, since it seems to be a common belief that the way to avoid the tax liabilities to which a Thai company is susceptible is to use an off-shore company instead, we also take a look at whether that is true. Is the use of an off-shore vehicle, such as a BVI company, to own such a holiday home in the Kingdom, truly a tax free proposition?

As stated, the HLT, in contrast to corporate income tax, personal income tax and withholding tax, is a so called “local tax”. Other local taxes are the Signboard Tax and the Local Development Tax. A local tax is not collected by the Thai Revenue Department. The municipality, or its equivalent depending on the location, is entitled to collect such local tax in order to use the proceeds to maintain and develop the area under its jurisdiction. The HLT is imposed at a rate of 12.5% on the owner of structures and land used in connection therewith if the owner of such structures and land receives, or should receive, rental income from these.

In simplified terms: if a Thai company owns a holiday home in Thailand, that Thai company will generally be liable to pay HLT. However, there are exemptions from HLT liability as provided by the House and Land Tax Act (“HLTA”).

The most applied exemption is found under Section 10 of the HLTA. It is applicable if the “houses or other structures (are) inhabited by the owners thereof or by the agent to protect the place (…). It is not unreasonable to think that this exemption might apply where the director of a Thai Company is the one staying in the house. And, indeed, the treatment of a Thai company that owns a holiday home in the Kingdom and whose director uses such holiday home in relation to this exemption from the HLT was legally disputed for quite some time.

78

One argument that the Section 10 exemption applies to a juristic person, like our Thai company, was made based on the juristic person’s legal representative, like the director of our Thai company, being an “agent to protect the place”. After all, the legal representative of a Thai juristic person is a legal agent of the said juristic person. Thus, it was argued, that by way of the legal representative living in the house the “agent” “protected” “the place”. However, in 2006, the Supreme Court, in its ruling no. 1410/2549, did not concur with this reasoning. Instead, the Supreme Court ruled that an “agent to protect the place” requires that the said agent be actually assigned to protect the building and not just allowed to live there. Thus, a juristic person owning a structure and having its legal representative residing in the building for dwelling purposes is not eligible to that part of the Section 10 exemption.

Alternatively, it was also argued that the Section 10 exemption should apply where the legal representative of a juristic person inhabited the building because that was equivalent to the juristic person, i.e. owner of the building staying there itself. However, a year later in 2007, the Supreme Court, in its ruling no.

689/2550, disagreed. The Supreme Court held that a juristic person can use a structure it owns as, for example, a registered address and in the course of its business and that, therefore, it does not need its legal representative to dwell there. Moreover, since the individual legal representative of a juristic person is a distinct legal entity from the juristic person itself the legal representative dwelling in the building for residential purposes is not the equivalent of the juristic person itself inhabiting the building. Therefore, the “owner” exemption provided under Section 10 of the HLTA does not apply to such a case.

On the other hand, many holiday owners are using off-shore vehicles to own their holiday house or condominium unit in Thailand. The common belief is that such off-shore corporations are an efficient vehicle to avoid any taxation in the Kingdom to which, for example, a Thai company is susceptible. However, this is often not the case with regard to rental income tax liabilities and generally not the case when it comes to HLT. In the case of HLT, as stated it is imposed on the owner of structures and land. As such the HLT and the Supreme Court rulings detailed above are equally applicable to any off-shore vehicle owning a house or condominium unit in Thailand. Thus, such an off-shore vehicle is not shielded from the tax liability that arises in accordance with the HLTA when its director resides in the company’s house/condominium unit. Like any Thai company that owns a holiday home in Thailand in which its director resides, the offshore entity is liable to pay HLT. The purported off-shore tax saving structure thus fails in relation to HLT and that puts the users of these off-shore corporate structures in the same potentially expensive disadvantage as those using Thai companies for such purposes.

In closing, but which will not be discussed in detail here, it should also be noted that the use of an off-shore company to own a holiday home here in Thailand may also attract corporate income, personal income and withholding tax liabilities similar to those discussed in Part I of this article in the case of a Thai company. And, in fact, the use of an off-shore “tax haven” company, such as a BVI may run the highest risk of such additional tax liabilities.

DUENSING KIPPEN is a multi-service boutique law firm specializing in property and corporate/commercial matters and is also the only such firm in Thailand that compliments its property and corporate/commercial legal expertise with a core tax law practice.

DUENSING KIPPEN can be reached at: samui@dktaxandlaw.com or for more information, visit them at: www.dktaxandlaw.com 79

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

Legal

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

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

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

As we have been saying all the way through if it is not clear 100%, seek the advice of a legal professional in this field, as there are also many other issues that are important to consider such as servitude, access and rights of way.

Land Measurement & Survey Land in Thailand is measured in Rai, Ngan and Talang Wah. • 1 Wah= 4 sqm • 1 Ngan= 100 Wah or 400 sqm • 4 Ngan= 1 Rai or 1600 sqm In comparison to Western Standards: • 2.50 Rai= 1 Acre • 6.25 Rai= 1 Hectare 80

Legal

Tips for starting a new business Are you planning to start your own business for the first time in Thailand? If so, we hope this useful information will help put your business on the right track.

The simplest and easiest sort of company for foreigners to form with a small business is a Thai Limited Company. In Thailand, a Limited Company is a company with up to 100 shareholders, who share the same business purpose and is formed with a Capital divided into equal shares.

Getting started To set up a company, you must first have the memorandum that can be acquired at the registration office. To properly register, you are required to provide the authorities with details of your company and list a minimum of three shareholders (who can either be Thai or foreign nationals or both). At least seven days after you first approach the department, you can call a shareholder’s meeting to reach an agreement on the purpose of your business and set up the company’s operational rules.

Having agreed on the purpose of your business, you can then apply for business registration at the same department. If you cannot agree on company rules, you can refer to those stated in the Civil and Commercial Code’s partnership and companies section.

Shares Besides the issues of business registration, you must also make sure that your company’s shares are worth no less than 5 baht each. These shares can be transferred or even sold if the company has no regulations on this matter.

Every shareholder must be given a share certificate, a document that guarantees their status as a shareholder. Should anyone wish to transfer their shares to another party; they have to fill in the share transfer form that confirms the deal between the transferor and transferee.

The company also has to have in its possession a register of shareholders that contains a record of all the company’s shareholders. The book is evidence that will identify the company’s shareholders.

Shareholders and Chairperson A Limited Company’s shareholders can be either Thai or foreign nationals or both, but the percentage of shares held by foreign national plays a significant role in determining the nationality of your company, which may impose serious limitations on the company’s rights, such as landownership.

If less than 49% of your company’s shares are held by foreigners, your company is considered a Thai company. However, if foreign nationals hold more than 49% of the shares, your company is a foreign company.

The significant differences between Thai and foreign companies operating in Thailand lie in their rights to buy and own properties or other businesses. It is therefore important, especially for those in real estate and development businesses, to know and remember that unless your company is Thai, you are restricted in the ability to possess and obtain land and property in this country without an exemption granted by the government.

82

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

83

84

85

Rechtsgrundlage

86

87

88

89

Legal

90

91

Legal

VISAS & WORK PERMITS I have recently been asked to clarify the way the Thai system works with visas and work permits if you are opening a company here and would like to have a work permit.

Firstly I must point out that each Thai province does follow slightly different guidelines and my information does in no way substitute you actually having a legal consultation with a reputable lawyer’s company if you actually intend to work.

There are those that believe the little they would do in reality would make a work permit hardly worth the trouble. This is a big mistake and one that could cost you more problems than you would believe. The Thai Immigration takes cases of foreigners working without a work permit very seriously and the penalties are harsh. If you are here on a tourist visa you cannot in any way participate in a job.

So let’s have a look at what’s actually required to apply for a work permit. Firstly you need to have a business class visa which in most cases will have to be applied for at a Thai Consulate outside of Thailand. There have recent changes to the system, whereby smaller Thai embassies such as the one in Penang, Malaysia, have stopped issuing multiple entry visas. Initially there were those who whispered that the only way to arrange these multiple entry visas was for the individual in question to return to their home country and obtain the visa from their local Thai embassy.

This however had been proved to be incorrect with the embassy in Kuala Lumpur still issuing multiple entry visas until recently, but currently the situation remains in a state of flux with even legal professionals unsure as to the long term guidelines. We therefore strongly advise obtaining up-to-date legal advice well in advance of pursuing your visa run, to ensure you are fully equipped with the documentation currently required for your business visa.

Those working in Samui who earn a salary of 50,000 Baht per month however, shouldn’t have to face these visa run hassles, as they’re entitled to a business visa that only needs to be renewed once per annum at an immigration office. Further details of this scheme can be obtained via a legal professional or at the local immigration office in Na-Thon. Either way, once you have the correct visa, you’ll be able to apply for or renew your current work permit.

Once again there are procedures required for this, which your legal professional will prepare for you.

This process might seem tedious, but it is nothing unusual, with every country having its own procedures and legal applications. Thailand is no different and don’t be fooled by the laid back and casual attitude of many Thai people on the island, as this is no reflection of the order required in any formal legal requests such as visa or work permit applications. When it comes to legal matters you need to ensure you follow the correct procedure and can produce the appropriate paperwork. All in all, it is easy to see why the services of a professional and thorough legal company are invaluable, saving you much confusion, stress and potentially time and money.

92

94

Surat Baansuy Ltd. Part หจก.สุราษฎร์บ้านสวย (คฤหภัณฑ์) CUSHION

WOODEN BLIND

TENSION MEMBRANE

AWNING

CURTAIN

SOFA

ด้วยช่างที่มีประสบการณ์กว่า 20 ปี จำ�หน่ายและรับติดตั้ง

ผ้าม่านทุกชนิด, มู่ลี่ทุกชนิด ระบบมอเตอร์ผ้าม่านทุกชนิด เบาะ, โซฟา, ผ้าใบ, หลังคาผ้าใบ, พรม, กระเบื้องยาง และ สินค้านำ�เข้าจากต่างประเทศอีกมากมาย 118/1 Robkoh Rd. Bo phut Beach Koh Samui (Opp Big C) Tel: 077-484-662-3, 081-691-1719 Lamai Branch Tel: 077-458-746-7

We are expert in curtain services for more than 20 years

Sale and Service Curtain, Roller Blinds, Bamboo Blinds, With Motor System Cushions, Sofa, Awning, Tension Membrane Carpet, Pvc Flooring, Import Product Ect Mobile: 081-536-6178 ( Mr. Jim) Email: jim@suratbaansuy.com

www.suratbaansuy.com

WATCH REAL FEEL REAL

Audio Visual & Electrical System Sales, Installations and Services • Audio Visual, Surround Sound System 5.1, 6.1, 7.1, 7.2 • 3D Cinema System • Projectors & HD Screens • TV Wall Brackets, Speaker On Walls & Ceilling • Media Center • Electrical LED Light Installation & Sales • Good Quality Products At Low Prices

Our Clients And More….

AV Installation System Limited Partnership

Panya Phlanisong (Poe) Managing Director

2/19 Moo 6, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320 Tel +66(0) 89 971 5775, +66(0) 87 889 8627 Fax. +66(0) 77 427 346 www.av-installationsystem.com Email: info@ av-installationsystem.com, avinstallationsystem@hotmail.com

Architect’s Talk

100

101

Interior Tips

Your Clutter

Get Under Control

Studies have shown that having a tidy home has a positive impact on a person’s emotional health. However, in trying to keep up with the daily demands of hectic schedules, many people find it difficult to keep their homes clean and organised. By just following a few simple tips, you’ll find that keeping your household tidy isn’t as daunting of a task as it sounds, and within a week you will be surprised by the noticeable difference.

102

Tips for a tidier home: • Clean as you go: Put things back in their right places once you are done. A toy here, a magazine there; when left to build up, can make a mess pretty quickly if you’re not vigilant about it.

• Throw away junk: Once you are done reading that flyer or brochure, or have taken a household item out of its container, don’t keep them around as clutter. You weren’t planning to keep them anyway, so why not throw them away once you are done with them?

• Try the “Five Boxes” technique: This could take some time so it’s better to do this on a holiday or over the weekend. Take five big boxes and label them “Keep”, “Give Away”, “Throw Away”, “Private” and “Miscellaneous”. Go through your room and put things into the boxes according to their importance to you. Get rid of the things in the “Throw Away” box, and make sure you pass on everything in the “Give Away” box. Store the “Keep”, “Miscellaneous” and “Private” boxes, and after about six months, re-examine the things that you have in the “Miscellaneous” box and either throw or give away the things you notice you don’t really use anymore.

• Be firm when getting rid of unwanted clutter: There are times when you just have to force yourself to let go of things. If you haven’t used something in a year, the chances are you may not really have a use for them ever again.

• Shop for things that will help organise your living spaces: You can find clear boxes, desk organisers, storage crates and other things which will help you keep your house in order.

• Clean and put away fifty per cent of your ornaments: Not only does this make dusting much easier, but with most your ornaments centralised in one place, you will not waste time searching for any particular items.

• Reduce the number of décor you have in your house. Little odds and ends that you found cool at some point in your life end up gathering dust faster than you can clean it. Before buying something that would “look good on your coffee table”, think twice if it will merely add to the clutter.

If you follow these simple (but perhaps more difficult than they look) steps, you will soon notice that your house or room is a much more orderly, spacious, and therefore healthier place to live, work and share time with friends and family.

Article & Photos Courtesy of www.schoolofinteriordesign.org 103

Garden Guide

The Dirt on Soil We aren’t always blessed with naturally ideal soil for the healthy garden of our dreams. However, there are steps we can take to remedy this, armed with just a few simple techniques and a little understanding of what plants need to thrive.

Soil provides a life-sustaining medium for plants by supplying them with three basic necessities - similar to human beings, water, food, and air. Water is required by all plants in varying quantities, depending on species, as are certain chemical substances dissolved in water that the plant can absorb as food. In addition, the plant needs an adequate supply of air to the roots.

Soil is composed of the earth’s minerals and other organic matter such as decaying leaves, roots, animal faeces and decomposing insects and animals.

The type of soil you have in your garden is defined by the size of its particles and this in turn defines its characteristics, strengths and weaknesses.

The smaller the particles, the more tightly packed they will be andthe more of the particles will occupy any given volume. Clay soil, for example, is made up of very small particles. In contrast, a sandy soil is composed of far larger particles.

The upshot of this is that the surface area of clay soil is more dense, giving it the ability to retain water more easily. The downside being that the compacted particles make it difficult for air to pass through. Likewise, sandy soil is well aerated at the expense of poor water retention.

It makes good sense that a mixture of both clay and sandy soil makes an ideal soil combination, but not without the presence or addition of organic matter. This decaying material, known collectively as humus, is broken down by microscopic organisms in the soil. These bacteria, of which there are countless millions in every shovel, feasts on the humus and reduces it to basic, soluble elements which the plant can then feed on.

So in a macabre sense, the plant effectively eats the remnants of its dead siblings and parts of itself in an unseen and perpetuating cycle of botanical cannibalism.

Besides its function as a source of food energy, the humus performs another important function. The physical texture and appearance of the soil is dictated by the quality of its humus content. Soil possessing this attribute is visibly rich with nutrient and has a pleasing consistency most suitable for strong rooting and plant growth.

104

(Of course, many species can survive in extreme conditions of depravation from water, air or nutrient, but these are not your everyday garden plants) Cultivation The term ‘cultivation’ refers to any adjustments we manually make to the soil in order to improve its texture and nutrient content and optimize the three aforementioned elements of water, food, and air.

By simple regular removal of weeds, soil quality is improved, and with less unwanted competition, more food is available for the plants we wish to nurture.

Soil-dwelling bacteria have such a voracious appetite for humus that it depletes any supply very quickly.

That being the case, it’s one of our gardening duties to replace and replenish this vital component on a regular basis.

Whether making your own compost or buying ready-made bagged compost from your local nursery, this is an important addition to your soil, and should not be skimped upon.

Another simple way to improve soil texture is by digging. Use a narrow border spade for small corners, and a larger broad spade for bigger areas. A garden fork can also be used cautiously as to avoid damage on the roots. Deep digging, particularly in heavy soils where the clay can compress, is an effective way of facilitating good aeration.

The local soil, as it is in most of the southern regions in Thailand, is slightly acidic. This can be neutralised by adding a little lime if available, or alternatively, a little bit of wood ash should be sufficient to restore balance to the soil.

When digging, remember to monitor the moisture levels around your plants. Shredded coconut fibre is abundantly available and is particularly valuable as an addition for its ability to hold large volumes of water, indispensible during the hot season.

Overall, monitor the appearance of your soil, mulch and compost regularly and keep on digging - your plants will love you forever.

Information provided courtesy of Botanical Designs www.botanical-designs.asia

105

Home Maintenance

Considering Building or Buying a

House in Thailand?

Throughout the number of years that Ecopestsamui has been operating on Koh Samui, we have seen a common pattern regarding house design and consequent pest control issues, particularly termites. If you are considering building or buying a house here on the island, don’t forget to consider the following suggestions.

Tips to Consider: Whenever possible, buy or build a property on stilts, rather than those with direct contact with the soil on the ground.

Termites are subterranean and can easily eat their way into your house through the floor. Within a few months, termites can devour a lot of the wood in your house, weakening the structure and leave you with a huge house repair bill.

Avoid choosing a house with nearby sources of still water with no fish in them.

As equally damaging to the termite is the mosquito, albeit in different ways. Mosquitoes live and breed in still water, and transmit serious diseases such as dengue fever.

Always consider termite resistant components within your house.

It is very easy to fall in love with beautifully designed wood items. But your love affair will soon end when, in years to come, you find that your lovely wood has had an affair with you neighbouring termite, and, just like losing a partner to another party, you end up spending large amounts of money to put things right or get a new one!

Do not be tempted to build a new room, underneath a property on stilts.

On many occasions we are called out to treat a problem of termites where a house has had an additional room built in the space beneath the house. The space between support pillars is there for a reason.

• To allow for natural ventilation beneath the house, which reduces humidity, and in turn, reduces the risk of having termites.

• To keep the house and the ground separated, preventing termites direct access to the floor boards of the house.

• To allow servicing of electricity and water systems.

Always position your air conditioning condenser units outside the main building and not in subvoids below the house.

Air conditioning units have condenser units which expel the warm, moist, humid air from your villa, which should be positioned in the external areas around the house in an area of good ventilation.

They should not be placed in the void beneath the house, as the moist warm air makes for a perfect environment for termites.

Always ensure the removal of wood after the construction process.

It is common during house construction for plywood to be used as a mould during cement pouring.

However, once the cement has hardened, any unused wood should be removed so as not to provide food for termites and consequent compromise on the building structure.

106

Always ensure that ceilings have access hatches.

Not only do indoor ceiling hatches provide access to electrify and water systems, but they also allow pest control operators to spot termite activity and take care of them before the problem spreads.

Look for ventilation grills in ceilings.

Insist on small ventilation grills to be put in the ceilings to ensure a constant air flow around ceiling voids.

This will help reduce humidity and the risk of termite infestation.

Block all possible entry holes from beneath the house with cement.

Insist that all pipes and electrical inlets are properly secured by the means of cement and other applications.

This will ensure that all routes into the house are blocked against termites, ants, snakes, scorpion, cockroaches, mice, rats, and other insects.

Install a pressure injection pipe system If a house is to be built close to the soil then insist that a termite pressure injection pipe system is installed. This will allow for the regular application of termite solution into the soil below the villa, which will help to reduce the risk of termite infestation. This process is only required to be carried out once annually and is very effective provided the pipes are installed and serviced by a competent operator who understands the requirements completely.

Arrange for a pest control survey before you buy or build.

Whether you decide to build or buy a pre-existing building, always have a pest control survey carried out prior to making any major decision. The grounds should be inspected and treated prior to construction. A pre-built house should be thoroughly checked and examined to establish any preexisting problems before you commit to the purchase.

For more information on these or any other pest, contact, ECOPEST SAMUI, www.ecopestsamui.com or 0857 912 496 107

Smart Samui

The enduring beauty

of

stone

Nite Stone provides customised cut stone and landscaping products for residential clients. The company only sources the best materials from around Thailand, and processes the stone in a variety of styles, matching the design and colours according to their application. NIte Stone creates free size culture stone, split culture stone, wave stone, and free form stone for various decorative uses with superior product selection and quality workmanship.

Stones Stones have long been used as a natural building material to cover both the internal and external floors of homes.

Rough stone slabs provide a practical flooring surface that are resistant to wear and tear, and rectangular slabs are commonly used to pave courtyards. Stone floorings also have decorative potential, and it is possible to introduce inlays and arrange panels of different materials to produce 108

an array of uniquely distinct motifs. Stone’s strength, durability, and natural beauty make it the perfect material to be used in the outdoor scheme or inside the intimacy of your home.

The beauty of natural stones, each with their individual markings, can also be applied to exterior walls, interior walls, furniture, and even fittings, giving each piece its own character and identity. When used for kitchen countertops or restaurant bar counters, the material exudes a permanence that cannot be achieved with other manmade materials. Stone materials are long lasting, requiring minimal maintenance but shrugging off everyday wear and tear. Besides being strong, stone is easily shaped even for smaller spaces like bathrooms, making for luxurious vanity sets. It is easy to bring designs to realisation using stone materials to create bespoke items, be it roofing, stair treads, fireplaces, tables, or other decorative features.

Outdoors & Landscaping When used externally, Nite Stone’s products withstand environmental elements, delivering natural stone flooring, flagstones, and patio sets that are permanent. Extremely practical and durable, stones can beautify your private gardens and external areas, adding a strong natural element amongst the soft tropical scenery. The slip resistant quality makes stones an excellent paving material. Nite Stone’s team of experienced designers are on hand to help you choose stones based on their tones and textures to bring to your dream house into reality.

Visit Nite Stone Shop at Baan Tai (next to Desjoyaux Swimming Pools) Tel. +66(0) 819 211 473 E: nite_stone@hotmail.com

109

Koh Phangan Map

120

The Evolution of Koh Phangan

Thong Nai Pan Estate Photo Courtesy of Steven Willeboordse

Stunning beaches, an affordable lifestyle and an appealing island environment have drawn a growing number of visitors and residents to Koh Phangan’s tropical shores. Many of the island’s visitors choose to stay longer than they originally planned and this has led to the establishment of a sizeable foreign community of long stay tourists, working residents, business owners and retirees. The number of foreign investors choosing Koh Phangan as their second home is increasing every year, with easy transport access, a fast developing infrastructure and a range of lifestyle and hospitality services all adding to the island’s growing appeal.

Koh Phangan is a rare island escape just a short boat ride from Koh Samui’s more developed and commercial environment. This means residents and visitors can enjoy the unspoiled beauty of some of Thailand’s finest beaches while still having access to the comforts and benefits of a modern lifestyle. The recent growth in the number of luxury hotels and private villas on the island has prompted the emergence of more upmarket retail, dining and entertainment choices, with cool nightspots and restaurants opening in the more popular beaches like Haad Rin and Thong Nai Pan. As Koh Phangan evolves from a backpacker haven into a full service destination, the island is attracting those with the spending power to combine natural escape with a sophisticated island lifestyle.

The Thai government and its tourism authority has long been promoting Koh Phangan as an eco-destination in order to transform the island’s reputation from party venue to tropical escape, promoting Koh Phangan’s natural beauty and untainted environment to the world.

Eco adventures and marine based activities are widely available to visitors and residents with mountain biking, diving, wake boarding and jungle treks all on offer to encourage a more sensitive approach to island life that also minimises the impact on the island’s eco-system.

On a practical level, the opening of a modest Tesco Lotus Supermarket, combined with a significant increase in the number of foreign run businesses has had a real impact in terms on the ease of living on Koh Phangan. Designer boutiques, international cuisine, real estate agents and developers are all gradually changing the island landscape, yet the laid back lifestyle has thus far survived and the local people are known for their commitment to 121

preserving their traditional culture. Whether selling the daily catch from their boats, chatting with friends in the shade of the village ‘sala’ or celebrating weddings with dances and local music, local people remain distinctively Thai in many ways. As for the foreign residents, the ease of life, natural beauty and diversity of lifestyle choices make Koh Phangan a unique destination as either a permanent or second home.

Koh Phangan real estate Koh Phangan’s real estate sector has grown as the island has developed and become more popular with visitors from around the world. Investment opportunities abound, whether it is raw beach and mountain land, off plan residential purchases or completed luxury villas for sale.

Prices are considerably lower than they are on Koh Samui, which often attracts adventurous Thong Nai Pan Estate Photo Courtesy of Steven Willeboordse investors looking for an affordable slice of paradise. Restrictive ownership laws in Thailand, however, mean buyers are advised to go through reputable law firms when considering any purchases on Koh Phangan. As is the case on Koh Samui or Phuket, it is important for anyone considering an investment to thoroughly research the laws and regulations, as well as to ensure that any land titles are thoroughly checked and that the most secure method of purchase is found to guarantee a trouble free, long-term investment.

Investors should also look into the track record of any construction firms they employ to guarantee that their reputation is solid and that any previous projects have been successfully completed.

Island development Recent road improvements have made Koh Phangan significantly more accessible to visitors and potential residents. Work is ongoing in several areas, particularly on the road that links Ban Tai with Thong Nai Pan, as well as the mountain pass that connects the west and east coast beaches. This means it is much easier to travel around the island and therefore also more convenient for long stay visitors to base themselves on a particular beach and head out for shopping, dining or entertainment.

Reaching Koh Samui is also very swift and easy with ferry companies offering regular services from Thong Sala to Big Buddha Beach and Nathon, including a car ferry service that also continues on to the mainland at Suratthani. The Haad Rin Queen ferry leaves and departs the south of the island for Samui four times a day, depending on the season. It is also possible to hire a speedboat, which can take as little as 15 minutes to cross the channel that separates the two islands.

A planned airport has yet to be confirmed on Koh Phangan with local people both for and against such a move. Various plans have been discussed, but the island’s geography 122

means construction of an airport would be expensive and complex and may even involve land reclamation or the creation of a floating runway.

Phangan Hot Spots Haad Rin was made famous by the monthly Full Moon Party and consists of two sweeping beaches known as sunrise and sunset and connected by a small but thriving tourist town on the east tip of the island. Haad Rin has become a bustling centre for shopping, with a large selection of retail outlets offering beach wear, jewellery, crafts and souvenirs. Haad Rin also boasts a handful of modest medical centres, but for serious conditions patients are transported to the larger and better equipped hospitals on Koh Samui.

Baan Tai beach is a small oceanside community situated around half way between Haad Rin and the port of Thongsala. Most of the beach resorts in the area have their own Thai and western restaurant, and the village that lines the road has developed into something of a modern hippy enclave, with a bakery and a handful of international cafes.

Haad Yao has long been a popular holiday location and is easily reached by road from Thongsala. The beach is known for its fabulous sunsets and the laid back feeling that Koh Phangan is well know for. A good selection of beach and village restaurants serve both tourists and long stay residents, with tasty Thai food and western favourites all available.

There’s also a good bakery serving fresh bread.

Chaloklum is one of the island’s largest fishing villages and still offers fishing boats a safe harbour during the storm season. The long, secluded beach is a picturesque idyll and the village that has grown along the coast now boasts a diverse bar and restaurant scene, known to many residents and regular visitors for its fine seafood restaurants and water sports centres.

Haad Salad is on Koh Phangan’s west coast is known as a quite, family oriented beach, lined with resorts but with some new residential offerings in the surrounding hills. Located down a steep hill from a hillside road, the beach has retained a remote feel but still offers plenty of good food and recreation choices.

Thong Nai Pan on the North East coast of Koh Phangan is home to what many people feel are two of the best beaches in Thailand. Tong Nai Pan Noi (small) is the location for some of the island’s most luxurious accommodation, while Thong Nai Pan Yai (big) features a range of mid-range resorts-restaurants and a luxury private development at Thong Nai Pan Estate. Both beaches are also the chosen location for new residential projects in the nearby hills.

Other popular beach areas on Koh Phangan include Bottle Beach, a peaceful desert island destination, Sadet beach, home to Koh Phangan’s most famous national park, as well as Had Thien and Had Yuan beaches, only accessible by boat and famous for their wellness centres and peaceful tropical surroundings.

123

At Ecomate we have the vision to make your business

your

and products more green. Through innovative technology and professional resource management we can help reduce power consumption and limit waste.

Applying a Reduce, Reuse, Recycle policy, we help preserve your natural resources and promote a more environmentally friendly society.

eco

Alternative Energy

Water Treatmeant and Water Reuse

Seawater Desalination

Heat Exchanger “Free Hot Water from Air Conditioning”

way

Contact person:

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

www.ecomate.co.th

The Definitive Guide to Samui & Phangan Real Estate

LET US HELP WITH YOUR MARKETING What do you get when you advertise with Samui Phangan Magazine?

Distribution to over 250 places around Samui, Phangan, Bangkok, Phuket, Suwannaphume Airport.

Free professionally written editorial for your company A profile of you, your products or your development* Free inclusion in our home directory (Even if you stop advertising with us we still keep you in the listings section) Free link to your website from our popular ONLINE

MAGAZINE

For Advertising Please Contract Jiratchaya Nasompak (Fai) จิรัชยา นาสมภักดิ ์(ฝ้าย) Sales & Marketing Manager Tel: 085-794-7696 , 089-723-9261 Email: sales@satayu.com www.samui-phanganmagazine.com *At Samui Phangan Real Estate Magazine discretion

Expo

10 YEARS of successful sailing

Samui has built a solid reputation for top class sailing in the last few years. The island’s tropical regatta is now in its 10th year and is known as one of the region’s most popular and enjoyable sailing events. Phuket is Thailand’s best known yachting destination, largely because it is also the location for the world famous King’s Cup Regatta every December, which is South East Asia’s biggest and most popular sailing event and therefore attracts boats from around the world. But as the final regatta in the Asian Yachting Grand Prix season, the Samui Regatta also draws some of the best yachts and crews in the region, as well as an ever increasing number of spectators who descend on the island every year to watch the races and enjoy the entertainment and special events that take place during this action packed week of tropical fun.

This year, the Sawadee.com Regatta 2011 includes up to six sailing classes including International Racing Class, Premier Class, IRC, IRC 2, Bareboat Charter and Multihulls. This means the on-water action is diverse and competitive, but also allows for a range of boats and crews with various levels of sailing expertise to enter the competition.

In the top racing classes, points are awarded based on the skippers’

Photos Courtesy of Sawadee.com Regatta 2010, Samui

132

133

and yachts’ performances through around ten, top class sailing events in a variety of countries that combine to form the annual Asian Yachting Grand Prix Championship.

The championship is well recognised among sailors, and winning the top prize and the skipper’s blue jacket is therefore considered a major recognition. The yacht owners and their crews must test their ability to compete at the highest level over an extended racing campaign in a range of Asian waters, but the final standings are often decided in Samui’s seas, creating a highly competitive spirit, backed up with plenty of goodwill and fun during the daily races.

Regular names on the AYGP circuit include Neil Pryde who sails the Welbourn 52 custom Hi Fi, Frank Pong with his Reichel Pugh 75 Jelik III and Ray Roberts, skipper of Transpac52 class Evolution Racing. The races involve both coastal sailing, a round the island course and closer contests sailing ‘around the cans’ directly off Chaweng Beach. Samui’s Centara Grand Beach Resort has hosted the regatta since the very beginning. The hotel provides competitors and spectators with a combination of excellent hospitality and high quality facilities, with post race parties at the resort’s special Regatta Tavern, as well as an impressive Gala Dinner on the final day with a delicious buffet and entertainment to complement the final AYGP awards ceremony.

During the day, spectators can enjoy the action from the comfort of a dedicated spectator boat, while in the evenings, the Samui regatta parties are famous and take place at various 134

venues around the island. The opening party at Zico’s Bar and Grill in Chaweng provides a fitting start to the week, with the restaurant’s famous Brazilian dancers turning up the heat and crews gathering to meet, great and jibe each other prior to the start of the competition.

This year’s regatta there will also feature a Luxury Network Party and Rachel S Swimwear Fashion Show at the KC Resort in Chaweng. The island’s favourite beach club, Beach Republic, will also host what is billed as “one of the wildest parties Samui has seen”, a true luxury lifestyle event with fine cocktails, free flowing champagne, top notch DJs, live performances and a spectacular fireworks display. Sound Bar in Chaweng will also host a late night extravaganza.

This year, a number of subsidiary events are being held on the island to coincide with the regatta. A beach clean-up has been organised with the International School Samui and supported by a number of local businesses and organisations. Golf lovers can join the stroke play tournament being held at the renowned Santiburi Golf and Country Club and photographers interested in developing their skills can attend an Underwater and Documentary Photographer Training seminar. In addition to these events and courses, a choice of professional business seminars are on offer, including a Social Media Marketing for Hotels and Small Businesses session and a Public Speaking Conference. Finally, for those interested in making Koh Samui their chosen holiday home location, a Property Exhibition is scheduled to take place at the Centara Grand Beach Resort, showcasing some the island’s best villas and apartments for rent and sale. Finally, motoring enthusiasts can drop in and admire the vehicles on display at the Supercar Rally, which is being organised by the Anantara Lawana Resort in north Chaweng.

Since professional Bangkok based event organisers MobyElite took over the Samui Regatta back in 2007 the event has become well known across the region and with Web Sawadee as the main partner, the regatta has continued to grow in terms of both popularity and reputation. As a fitting finale to the Asian Yachting Grand Prix season, Samui’s tropical island regatta is also a valuable promotional tool for the island and its multifarious attractions.

135

Green File

In Search of Alternative Energy

With population growth and power consumption both on the rise. Energy deficiency is becoming an unavoidable crisis. There is therefore a significant move to seek alternative energy as a substitute for energy that depletes the world’s natural resources.

The most common and best known types of alternative energy include the following:

• Solar energy (enhancing the sun’s power)

• Wind energy (generating electricity from wind)

• Geothermal energy (using hot water or steam from the Earth’s interior to heat buildings or generate power)

• Biofuel and Ethanol (plant-derived substitutes for gasoline to power vehicles)

• Hydrogen (used as clean fuel for airplanes and other vehicles) Hydrogen and nuclear energy are also frequently mentioned as the alternative sources of mass generated power. However, they are also the subject of ongoing disputes regarding their safety so it is still unclear how long these particular energy sources will remain marked as alternative and environment friendly energy sources.

Renewable energy vs non-renewable energy Renewable energy is generated from replenishable natural sources—such as sunlight , wind, rain , tides and geothermal heat. When comparing the processes for producing different types of energy, there remain several fundamental differences between renewable energy and fossil fuels. The process of producing oil, coal, or natural gas is a difficult and demanding process that requires a great deal of complex equipment, physical and chemical processes. On the other hand, alternative energy can be widely produced with basic equipment by enhancing natural processes. Wood, for example is on the most renewable and available alternative energy sources as it burns the same amount of carbon it would emit if it degraded naturally.

However in order to make it sustainable clear distinctions between different wood types and replanting cycles need to be applied.

136

Ecologically friendly alternatives Renewable energy sources such as biomass are sometimes regarded as an alternative to ecologically harmful fossil fuels. Renewables are not inherently designed for this purpose, however and may not always be suitable. For example, the Netherlands, once leader in use of palm oil as a biofuel, has suspended all subsidies for palm oil due to the scientific evidence that their use “may sometimes create more environmental harm than fossil fuels�.

The Netherlands government and various environmental groups are trying to trace the origins of imported palm oil, to certify which operations produce the oil in a responsible manner.

Regarding biofuels from foodstuffs, converting the entire grain harvest of the US would only produce 16% of its auto fuel needs, and biofuel production could also cause the decimation of Brazil’s carbon dioxide absorbing tropical rain forests. In many cases, research shows that placing energy markets in competition with food markets results in higher food prices and insignificant or negative impact on energy issues such as global warming or dependence on foreign energy. Recently, alternatives to such undesirable sustainable fuels are being sought, inlcuding commercially viable sources of cellulosic ethanol.

Which energy is recommended in the southern part of Thailand?

Thailand enjoys consistently strong sunlight for most of the year and covering a huge area.

Solar energy is therefore first alternative energy option that people think of. But in the southern part of Thailand during the rainy season it can also be cloudy all day and this season can last from is 6 to 8 months in some areas. This means that there is simply not enough sunlight to generate a constant supply of electricity.

Wind energy may be one solution, especially if it is used in combination to make up for deficiencies in solar panel use. In the southern part of Thailand the wind speed average is 5 m per second, which is enough for Wind Turbines to generate considerable amounts of power.

A hybrid system that links solar panel systems with wind turbines would therefore be one of the most powerful approaches, especially on islands with exposed coastal areas like Samui.

In many ways, tropical islands offer the perfect location to introduce alternative energies.

They generally benefit from high year round exposure to natural elements and even in areas with high levels of development, their energy needs are much lower than the demand for electricity in cities. Investment in alternative energy technology would help make islands like Koh Samui more energy efficient and self sustainable, as well as providing models for other destinations to follow.

For more information about water treatment please contact: Ecomate Company Limited 083-6378700 Email: info@ecomate.co.th www.ecomate.co.th

137

Island Life

Rotary Flood Fund Party The Rotary Club Samui recently hosted a Dinner Party at Farmer’s Restaurant in Maenam. Rotarian guests included Rtn. Hans Huber from RC Shanghai, one of only two Rotary Clubs in the Peoples’ Republic of China (the other being situated in Beijing). Also welcomed were President Stephen First and President Elect Marn Roeth, both from Rotary Club Hong Kong South.

Rotarian Jean Jacques Boyer from RC Paris Nord completed the support from other Rotary Clubs around the world, clearly demonstrating the recognition of RC Samui as a valued member of the organisation.

The proceeds from the Dinner Party are to be held in a separate fund that has been created following the disastrous rains and subsequent flooding in many areas around Samui in April. This fund, as and when necessary, will be used to purchase fresh water and non-perishable foods such as rice, which will be distributed around the island to those most in need should such a similar similar disaster occur again.

Following earlier publicity about the setting up of this fund, a number of Rotary members and friends made generous donations anonymously to get it underway. Rotary Club policy is never to give cash, but instead to purchase and donate goods to those in need where and when it is felt necessary.

Essential Elements Hidden on the south coast of Samui, Elements Boutique Resort and Spa is the perfect getaway for visitors or residents looking for a relaxing spot, far from the island’s more crowded beaches.

Located in secluded Phang Ka Bay, the resort looks out over peaceful seas and is surrounded by mangrove forest, a far cry from the noisy beach bustle of Chaweng. Those looking for luxury can choose to stay one of the resort’s luxury beach or garden villas, most of which boast a private pool. The main resort pool also offers a healthy dip, with a chlorine -free system guaranteeing fresh, clean water. The “Serenity Spa” at Elements Resort also offers an extensive menu of treatments that includes massage, facials, 138

manicure, pedicure, as well as natural treatments such as a marine mud wrap and Himalayan hot stone massage. There’s also a well quipped fitness centre, steam room and sauna with personal service provided by the resort’s efficient, friendly staff.

Visitors to the Elements Resort can enjoy fine food at the resort’s restaurant, with fresh, healthy ingredients used to prepare a wide selection of global cuisine, as well as a choice of Thai favourites. Meals feature everything from fresh seafood to mouthwatering Kobe Beef, and diners can also indulge in some delicious natural fruit juices. Elements is a perfect choice for a day trip, weekend break or longer stay.

Tel (0) 77 914678. www.elements-koh-samui.com

Remembering a Samui Legend

In May, the Samui community hosted a fundraising event at Beach Republic for Jeffrey Lord, one of Samui’s best known international chefs, who set the benchmark for fine dining creativity on the island, but was badly injured in a motorbike accident.

The party was supported by Beach Republic, and sponsored by the island’s food and wine suppliers who had known Jeffrey from the days when he first worked at Poppies in Chaweng in 1997, until he opened his own restaurant Betelnut and then moved it to the Buri Rasa.

The event was a chance for old friends and new to be together for a good community cause and to pay tribute to Jeffrey’s passion for life, food, art, and music. A long time resident on Samui, he had been largely unresponsive since August 2009, and cared for by his wife Samruay at his home on the island.

More than 200 people attended the event, which raised more than 250,000 baht to help Jeffrey’s wife Sam and his daughter Jennifer move with Jeffery to Sam’s home town of Wichianburi and open a small restaurant there. In the week following the event, however, while the family was packing and preparing to leave, Jeffrey contracted a bout of pneumonia, and on the day Sam had scheduled to leave Samui, he passed away at home at 2.45 in the afternoon.

Messages of condolence have since flooded in from around the world and we at Samui Phangan Magazine would also like to offer our thoughts and best wishes to Jeffrey’s family as they move forward after enduring a long and painful ordeal.

139

Homes Directory

PROPERTY DEVELOPERS/ ESTATE AGENTS ADVANCE INTER DEVELOPMENTS 077 231 625 ADVANTAGE PROPERTY 081 8926 372 AMANDARA CONDOMINIUM 077 349 184 AMERA KOH SAMUI BY SAWADEE GROUP 084 745 0720 ANGTHONG APARTMENTS 077 430 326 AQUALINA SAMUI 0843224680 ARTRIUM SUITES 087 607 6078 BAAN FAA SAI BY ANGTHONG HILLS 086 256 555 BAAN RAK TALAY 077 430 326 BAMBUH 086 061 4280 BANGPOR VILLA 081 341 4755 BAN SWEET COCONUT 089 500 9800 BEACH REPUBLIC 089 011 9538 CD&P 081 924 9574 CHAWENG SILA 077 430 779 COUNTRYSIDE PROPERTY 089 866 2062 DD EVOLUTION 077 960 927 DHEVATARA PROPERTY 077 430 326 DREAMCOAST DEVELOPMENTS 081 082 9355 DREAM PROPERTY 077 245 869 ECO REAL ESTATE ASIA 077 960 991 EXOTIQ REAL ESTATE 077 230 688 FIRST CHOICE PROPERTY 081 893 8521 FLAMINGO RESIDENCE 084 308 0967 FUNCTION HOMES 077 430 540 GREEN CORE 077 377 018 HALCYON SAMUI PROPERTIES 089 971 7194 HORIZON HOMES 077 417 005 IN ASIA 077 448 078 INFINITY 089 666 0610 IPM SAMUI 081 894 4093 KOH SAMUI LAND & HOME 089 474 1837 KARMA SAMUI 077 413 901 KOHABITAT PROPERTY 077 430 399 KOH PHANGAN HOLIDAY HOMES 087 898 3918 KOH SAMUI PROPERTY 077 230 606 KP PROPERTY 077 377 018 KALARA INTERNATIONAL PROPERTIES 077 246 100 KIRIKAYAN 077 247 867 LAAN DARA SAMUI 077 414 204 LOTUS TERRACES 089 972 3043 MANDALAY GARDEN 080523 4488 MANGROVE VILLA 081 374 0014 MINI GOLF 081 787 9148 OCEAN 11 BEACH FRONT RESIDENCE 089 813 5715 PALM CREEK RESIDENCE 081 374 00414 PALM GROUP ASIA 080 535 1725 PLAI LAEM VILLAS 085 782 4910 PEARL PROPERTY 081 370 2480 PHATHONG RESIDENCE 089 813 5715 PLANTATION HEIGHTS 077 234 203 PLATINUM ASIA PROPERTIES 086 271 3800 PLAY AT SAMUI 077 448 201-2 PLUMERIA PLACE 077 430 043 PROJECT PARTNER PROPERTIES 077 248 300 RENT SAMUI.COM 077 430 399 ROYAL SAMUI HEIGHTS 077 414 222 SAMRAN GARDENS 089 474 1837 SAMUI PHANGNAN PROPERTIES 081 979 0679 SAMUI QUICK SALE 081 082 4030 SAMUI SANCTUARY 084 689 7081 SAMUI ESCAPES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 077 245 136 SAMUI VILLAS & HOMES 077 430 326 SAGE LAND & HOUSE 089 016 9750 SAMUI BEACH VILLAGE 077 430 326 SAMUI DIAMOND PROPERTIES 087 895 4132

140

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

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

LEGAL SERVICES

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

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

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

HOME & DECOR

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

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

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

SECURITY SYSTEMS B-SMART SYSTEMS CREATIVE SYSTEM PROJECTS KUNINI IHOMES

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

AUDIO VISUAL INTERIOR DESIGN AV INSTALLATION SYSTEM

089 971 5775

AVIVA CREATIVE SYSTEM PROJECTS TECHWORX PROJECTS

02 685 3676 080 698 6811 077 961 910

GARDEN & LANDSCAPE BOTANICAL DESIGNS LANDSCAPING HELICONIA LANDSCAPE GARDEN MAYAN LANDSCAPING

KITCHEN HARDWARE FRANKE KITCHENS H.A.FELE I.P.M. SAMUI KITCHEN STUDIO RS VENTURE

084 315 9742 081 090 5489 087 895 6396

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

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

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

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

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

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRONOS DYNAMICS CLAUDIO / FANTASYATWORK.COM ORIENTAL LIVING SKYCAM ASIA

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

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

081 892 1066 02 586 5600 085 791 2496 083 637 8700 089-733-3672 077 423 073 077 245 570-1 077 426 608 076 304 040 077 247 769 077 427 726 076 355 040 085 783 1445 077 414 412 087 282 4930

FINANCE SERVICE GFS AUSTRALASIA

CT TRADING INSURANCE ENSURE ASIA 015

038 420 618 077 417

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

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

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

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

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

MAINTENANCE SERVICE MANAGING SAMUI SQUEAKY CLEAN WINDOWS

077 430 010 087 013 7650

OTHER BANGKOK AIR WAYS 077 422 512-9 BLUECHIP INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 089 651 0020 FIREWORKS SAMUI 087 263 4371 SAMUI RESCUE 077 421 444/087 263 4371 TESCO LOTUS 077 245 400 TS-TEAK 081 893 4933 LEISURE SAMUI 100 DEGREE EAST DIVE CENTER 077 245 396 BAAN TALING NGAM RESORT & SPA 077 429 100 BBC CAFÉ 077 425 089 BLUEWATER INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL 077 484 548 DANCING CRAB 077 425 519 HAVELI INDIAN CUISINE 082 8183 416/417 HARLEY DAVIDSON BANGKOK 02 934 4855 IDIVE THAILAND 077 484 737 KUDOS RESTAURANT 081 895 0734 MAGNOLIA SPA 077 601 133 OCEAN 11 BEACH FRONT RESTAURANT 077 245 134 OCEANS ELITE CHARTERS 077 427 244 PAUL ROPP SAMUI 086 270 3060 SEA BREEZE RESTAURANT 077 245 255 SENSEDAYSPA 077 246 295 THE GALLERY BAR & RESTAURANT 086 726 8482

ENGINEERING SERVICES EASTERN TECHNICAL ENGINEERING

080 535 1725

INSURANCE SERVICES

077 295 316

141

CHAWENG NOI - PRIVATE VILLAS FOR RENT&SALE Luxory lifestyle living in the exotic tropical paradise Beautiful 1,2,3 bedroom (40-120nm) villas available for short and long term rent. Located in Chaweng 2 minutes from the white sandy beach, 15 minutes from the Airpor. In a quiet coconut valley with all fasilties including:Family

LED

LIGHT

ARCHITECTURE

rooms, high speed internet, satelit tv (100+ channels), fullassistance, double swimming pool, rent car&motorbike, thai massage, non-smoking room,laundry service,24h full security, Guaranteed investment opportunity.

Expected 100% return in 6 years or less.

Tel:+66 (0) 8 4469 0211 Email: info@rocksamui.com www.rocksamui.com

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

l, te o H

t& an r u sta Re

E L SA

nd La

R O F

) ge a k ag (P

M A N D A L A I

BEST DEAL !

Boutique Hotel & Restaurant on the beach in Koh Phangan. With 12 suite rooms fully furnished including Jacuzzi baths.

Big Discount ! from 80 mb. down to 70 mb. *If you buy now get free beautiful mountain land 7 rai and fishing boat Call: +66 (0) 8 9220 9266 (Thai+English)

-no agent-

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

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

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

baht baht baht baht baht

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

BANGRAK : CHARMING 4 BEDROOMS HOUSE FOR SALE :

8.900.000 baht

A stunning 4 bedroom villa perfectly located in Bang Rak. Built to European standards with luxurious finishing’s throughout.

Private pool within beautiful landscaped gardens and a well appointed terrace for outdoor entertaining.

A sumptuous master suite with private terrace for that truly luxurious feel.

Two well thought out guest bedrooms privately contained with pool/garden views.

A “ must-see” villa at an incredible price!

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

BBC Restaurant /

ร้านอาหาร บีบีซี

The Best Sunset Restaurant on Koh Samui Big Buddha Beach

Tel : 077 - 425089 www.bbcrestaurant.com