ScandAsia Thailand - August 2011

AUG 2011

Thailand

SWEDISH

‘Hyde & Seek’ IN BANGKOK

Mostly Danish, Maybe...

NORWEGIAN Summit in Singapore

ScandAsia.dk

ScandAsia.fi

ScandAsia.no

ScandAsia.se

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Coming Events DWN Girls Night Out Date: 1 September 2011 Location: Nadimos Lebanese Restaurant

Your FREE ScandAsia Magazine in Thailand

www.lux-limo.co.uk

DanCham Field Trip - ECCO

ScandAsia is the only magazine that covers all the Danish, Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish residents in Thailand.

Date: 6 September 2011

We also publish a ScandAsia magazine in China, Singapore and the rest of South East Asia.

Please sign up for your own FREE copy: www.scandasia.com Publisher: ScandAsia Publishing Co., Ltd. 4/41-2 Ramintra Soi 14, Bangkok 10230, Thailand Tel. +66 2 943 7166-8, Fax: +66 2 943 7169 E-mail: news@scandasia.com Editor-in-Chief: Gregers A.W. Møller gregers@scandmedia.com

Many of you will be back from Summer time.

Now it is time to reunion with Danish friends and newbie in Bangkok. Come and join the Danish Women’s Network Girls Night Out at Nadimos Lebanese Restaurant, Sukhumvit 24. Registration should be made by 28 August 2011. If you want to be part of the Danish community in Bangkok, please contact dwnbkk@gmail.com.

SSS Wissen Cup

Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce invites members and friends to visit ECCO (Thailand) Co., Ltd. on Tuesday 6 September 2011.

ECCO is a leading manufacturer of shoes, designed by its mother company, ECCO in Denmark. The agenda will be announced at www.dancham.or.th. Register and inquiries, please contact contact@dancham.or.th.

Date: 3 September 2011 Venue: Thana City Golf Course The next golf tournament of the Scandinavian Society Siam will be at Thana City Golf Course for the first event of the 2011/2012 season, the Wissen Cup. It will be played on Saturday 3 September 2011. Golfer, who wants to swings with your Scandinavian friends, please visit www. zabaigolf.com for more information.

Advertising: Finn Balslev finn@scandmedia.com Piyanan Kalikanon piyanan@scandmedia.com Nattapat Maesang nattapat@scandmedia.com Graphic Designer: Supphathada Numamnuay supphathada@scandmedia.com Distribution: Pimjai Chaimongkol pimjai@scandmedia.com Printing: Lake & Foundtain Printing Co., Ltd.

Daily news and features here: www.scandasia.com

Flying Superkids Show Date: 30 September 2011 & 1 October 2011 Location: Thailand Cultural Centre On September 30th and October 1st, The Flying Superkids are flying from Denmark to Thailand to perform at Bangkok’s International Festival of Dance & Music. The Flying Superkids are 30 high-spirited Danish gymnasts, aged between 7-20 years, who impress adults and children worldwide with their gymnastic skills, and their singing and dancing. For more information about the Flying Superkids, please visit www. flyingsuperkids.com. More information about show time and tickets can be found at: www. bangkokfestivals.com.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BY SCANDINAVIAN SOCIETY

All Chamber Joint Sundowner

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joint Sundowner event, organised by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by DTAC, was held on 3 August 2011, at the Imperial Queen Park Hotel.

Around 200 guests attended the event which provided the opportunity to network with those from other chambers. Many members of Nordic Chambers (Swedish, Danish, Finnish and Norwegian) were present at this event as well.

Selected finger food, drinks, wine, and beer were served while the guest moved about meeting and getting to know each other.

The excitement heighted when Total Access Communication Public Company Limited (DTAC) Head of International and Corporate Business Division Mr. Petter Pedersen got up on stage, and announced the winner of the two lucky draws which were BlackBerry Bold 9780 and iPhone 4 White.

A joint Sundowner is not organised very often but was a success as the guests left contented with the food, drinks and people they met at the end of the evening.

1. President of the Thai-India Chamber of Commerce - Mr. Susheel Kumar Saraff (left); President of Thai-Finnish Chamber of Commerce Mr. Marc Spiegel (right).

2. From left: Ms. Jeanet Callesen, new intern of DanCham; New Executive Director of DanCham - Ms. Savija Pannark Korslund; Executive Director of SweCham - Mr. Peter Bjork; DTCC Secretary to Executive Director Ms. Grace Paranee Jansawake.

3. Total Access Communication Public Company Limited (DTAC) Head of International and Corporate Business Division - Mr. Petter Pedersen (3rd from right) and President of several chambers.

Bicycle Cake for Peter Waagensen Hans Henrik Melchior Married to Duangkamol Vephula

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eter Waagensen and Duangkamol ‘Prae’ Vephula celebrated their wedding on Saturday 23 July 2011 at the Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel in grand style. Among the guests were many of Peter Waagensen’s family members from Denmark and many more of Duangkamol Vephula’s family in Thailand and friends of her family.

The culmination of the stunning arrangement was the cutting of the wedding cake which the couple performed together with a huge cavalry saber.

“N

o neck ties, no speeches,” was the concept when Hans Henrik Melchior celebrated his 60 years Anniversary in EAC on 1 August 2011.

It was a surprise therefore, when fellow Vikinbg Wheeler Bent Laasholdt wheeled in a cake - with a bicycle on - at the reception at Hotel Grand Millenium.

Hans Henrik Melchior didn’t mind and thanked and cut the cake. The guests didn’t mind either and the cake was a welcome dessert after the delicious buffet of Thai and Western snacks.

6 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

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ScandAsia News Brief Admiral’s Pub Opens 1 September

Swedish Town Celebrates 114th Anniversary of Thai King’s Visit

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agunda municipality in Jämtland in northern Sweden is celebrating the 114th anniversary Thailand’s King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) visiting this Scandinavian kingdom in 1897.

The news appeared on the front page of the local newspaper, giving pride to Thais living there.

The King Chulalongkorn Memorial Building was built to honour the monarch in Ragunda Municipality’s Bispgarde, about 500 kilometres from the capital of Stockholm. The celebration takes place annually in July.

As Ragunda municipality and Bangkok are sister cities, a delegation of Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC) representatives, led by BMC council chairman Sutthichai Weerakoonsoontorn, were invited by Ragunda’s mayor to participate in the celebration to be held Tuesday at the authentically Thai-styled pavilion which attracts visitors from throughout Sweden.

Mr Sutthichai said the Council will take this opportunity to follow up discussion of sending medically-trained Thais to be employed as caregivers for Swedish elderly.

Negotiation started a year ago.

Jariya Boonpiem, a 32-year-old Thai living in Sweden, said King Rama V’s visit helped promote Thailand to Swedish people and that she was proud to be Thai.

In addition to Ragunda municipality, Bangkok is also a sister city to other 29 cities worldwide.

8 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

A

dmiral’s Pub will have a soft opening on 1 September in Hotel Mermaid on Sukhumvit Soi 29 in Bangkok. The restaurant will follow on 1 November when also the Hotel Mermaid will open.

The owners of the restaurant group, Wanna and Bent Laasholdt signed on Friday 13 July 2011 a Management Agreement with the owners of Hotel Mermaid, Jørgen Lundbæk and ‘Pete’ Parupkarsingh Singsachtep.

Still wearing their hard hats, the four partners sealed the deal with a glass of champagne. The third partner in the new hotel, Anker Stensig Andersen, was not present.

“The agreement allows us to run all Food & Beverage business in the hotel, the pub, the restaurant, room service, and outside catering,” explained Bent Laasholdt about the contract which runs for initially 3 plus 3 years.

In many ways, the new premises of The Admiral’s Pub and Restaurant are an improvement compared to the old place in Sukhumvit Soi 18 from where the restaurant was forced to move out several years ago as the owner wanted to build a condominium.

“The pub and bar is completely separated from the restaurant and much bigger than what we had upstairs in the old restaurant,” Bent Laasholdt explains while showing around.

“The restaurant is divided into an indoor area with seats for 80 guests and the outside area has seats for another 80 guests. In the middle by the stairs there will be the breakfast buffet serving both areas.”

The outdoor restaurant is called the Boat Deck, following the traditional marine style interior design with turn of the century images on the walls like the other Admiral’s Pub and Restaurants.

There will be a large wine cellar and in a separate basement room the draft beer system will be installed from where cooled pipes will lead the beer to the tapping stations in the pub and restaurant.

Taxation Conference for Norwegians

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migrant1 is announcing a conference about taxation to be held in Pattaya on 6 October 2011, the exact location to be decided. Emigrant1 is an organisation working for legal rights for Norwegian citizens living abroad. Main issues are taxation and pension.

The Revenue Department will attend the meeting and listen to the Norwegian citizens’ needs about easier ways to provide sufficient documentation demanded by the Norwegian tax authorities.

Arthur Sandberg from Emigrant1 tells that the Thai Revenue Department has showed interest and understanding for the challenge Norwegian citizens are facing.

More information about Emigrant1 and the coming event can be obtained by writing to info@emigrant1.org

Lennart Linner Back in Sweden In the previous issue of ScandAsia Thailand, we mistakenly stated that Swedish Ambassador Lennart Linner would take up a position in the Philippines. This is not the case. H.E. Lennart Linner has been transferred back to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Stockholm.

Sweden has no embassy in Manila.

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August 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 23/5/11 8:42:01 PM9

ScandAsia News Brief

Thai Berry Pickers Toiling in Lapland Mr. Grergers Moller and Mr. Frank Leong look forward to expanding ScandAsia in Singapore together.

ScandAsia Establishes Company in Singapore

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candAsia Publishing Pte. Ltd. was established on 20 July 2011 as a joint venture between ScandAsia in Thailand and Frank Leong, who has been Sales Manager for the ScandAsia Singapore since November 2010.

Frank Leong is a partner in S C Production LLP which sells advertisements for various other magazines. He will now dedicate more of his time to serve ScandAsia.

The Publisher of ScandAsia, Gregers Moller, is excited about the expansion.

“The perspective of having our own corporate framework in Singapore is exciting. Initially, we will employ Frank as our Sales Manager and next, a journalist will team up with him to cover the many activities in the Nordic communities in Singapore,” he says.

Among the benefits of establishing the company in Singapore is the first three years of tax exemption for profit below 100.000 Singapore dollars. The absence of monthly withholding tax reports and payments and exemption of GST if the turnover is below 1 mill Singapore dollars facilitates business startups further.

“Having just been through a similar process in Thailand, which took several months, the efficiency of the Singaporean government administration and bank system was amazing,” says Gregers Moller.

“We had prepared all papers, so with that in place, the whole process, including opening a bank account, was done in one afternoon!”

10 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

T

hai workers are picking berries in Lapland under harsh conditions.

Their work day starts at the break of dawn and continues late into the evening, and on top of that they get no free days to break the routine.

“We rise at three o’clock in the morning and return from the berry forests at nine o’clock at night,” says Boomturm Meesa.

Meesa came to Sodankylä from Khon Kaen in Thailand, which is located some 400 kilometres north of Bangkok. He has picked berries in Sweden before and heard from his friends that the job was also available in Finland where the berries were more.

Meesa paid for the trip out of her pocket. It cost him altogether 1,500 Euros. Meesa believes that the trip will pay itself off. He also mentioned that if he had

extra, he would use it for his children’s education.

Meesa came to Finland because he wasn’t earning enough in Thailand. He believes that he can get better wages in Finland. In Thailand, he was getting 200 baht, or about five Euros, per day.

Meesa admits that the work he’s doing in Lapland is very hard, but says he is used to it.

He says he is satisfied with the conditions of this stay.

Together with Meesa, 65 workers are staying in a former school in Sodankylä at the invitation of the company Korvatunturin Marja. The company has also hired a Thai interpreter and two Thai cooks to stay at the school.

There are several thousand foreign berry-pickers in northern Finland this year.

Korvatunturin Marja alone employs 550 Thai and 200 Ukrainian workers.

Swedish U-turn: Embassies Not Closing!

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he Swedish Embassies in Hanoi, Vietnam, and in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, will not be closed anyway, the Swedish Foreign Ministry announced on 2 August 2011.

The move came at a time where the two embassies had basically already been terminated, the furniture sold, staff employed elsewhere, and the shock of the closure among absorbed by the Swedish residents and business community. Still, most Swedes welcomed the decision.

In Vietnam, a Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said Vietnam welcomed the Swedish Government’s decision to maintain its embassy in Hanoi, confident that it would make positive contributions to promoting the two countries’ relations.

The announcement explained that Swe-

den’s Government and Social Democratic Party have agreed upon the appropriation to the government offices, which involves cancellation of planned closures of foreign representative offices including the Swedish Embassies in Vietnam and Malaysia.

It means that the funds for the government offices will be restored to the levels proposed in the budget bill for 2011 and the Swedish Embassies in Angola, Argentina, Malaysia and Vietnam will not be closed.

The press release from the Swedish Prime Minister’s office said that the Swedish government offices will be restored as of 2012 and for the remainder of the electoral period to the levels proposed in the 2011 budget bill.

This entails an appropriation increase of SEK 300 million, excluding future price and salary increases.

Thai-born Woman among Victims of Norway Massacre

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hai Foreign Ministry announced that a Thai-born woman was among those killed in the massacre in Norway that took place on 22 July.

Pornthip Adam, 21, was among the 68 victims of a gun rampage that took place on the Norwegian island of Utoya, which is about 50 kilometres from capital Oslo.

According to her mother Sawanya Adam, Pornthip was a naturalised Norwegian. She was born in Thailand to a Thai man and Sawanya, who took her to Norway at the age of two after the mother got married to a Norwegian man.

The Thai Embassy will hold a religious ceremony today at a local Buddhist temple to make merit for Pornthip and other victims of the rampage, the ministry said.

Anders Behring Breivik, a 32-year-old Norwegian, has admitted to carrying out the shootings on Utoya and a bomb blast in Oslo that killed another eight people.

The Thai Embassy in Oslo had reported Pornthip’s death to the ministry which was reported on the ministry’s website, www.mfa.go.th

www.scandasia.com/m Read on your mobile phone

Sign up for free delivery of the ScandAsia magazine on www.scandasia.com/m August 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 11

Swedish Cocktail Trio Gastro Bar in Bangkok Three Swedish cocktail experts are behind the pretty new kind of venue ‘Hyde & Seek’.

By Joakim Persson

T

he beginning of year 2010 marked the start of a “new” journey for the three Swedes behind Flow Cocktail in Thailand with the opening of Hyde & Seek Gastro Bar (H&S) in Bangkok, positioning them even more strongly as part of the Thailand bar and dining scene.

Prior to this, the brothers BenDavid (Bennie) and Dannie Sorum plus Mr. Thomas Anostam (who joined them more recently) had

already proven themselves on the Asian bar and cocktail stage. They had come to Thailand from bartender jobs in Australia.

Some five years later they were successful beverage and event consultants all over Asia. The timing for their arrival had been perfect as the drinking culture started to evolve substantially in Southeast-Asia and certainly in Thailand. Conjuring up cocktail creations was now synonymous with the growing ‘mixologist’ trend. And in Thailand, as young for-

12 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

eigners, they were certainly something new on the scene.

Thailand’s first national cocktail, Siam Sunrise, and a cocktail book called Tipple Thai based on Thai herbs and fruits, are also among their achievements.

After some years of consultancy circumstances lead them on to become restaurateurs.

“One must be ready for opportunities, to jump on the train.

And this wasn’t exactly planned; we had only thought of that we should

open up our own place sometime in the future,” says Bennie.

They were introduced to a site on Soi Ruamrudee, considered pros and cons - and believed there was great potential. With their by now in-depth knowledge of the scene it dawned upon them that many in Bangkok was indeed yearning for a different take on dining and drinking.

A Thai chef, Ian Kittichai, who has made it big abroad also dared to join forces with them in this bold venture introducing an untried concept here in the form of a Londonmeets-New-York-meets-Asia Gastro Bar. As they looked outwards for inspiration, and the consequences for many fine dining outlets due to the recent recession, they opted for a more price-friendly concept, and mixing it with a western bistro - a more noisy and less trendy kind of dining room and of course with a gigantic bar.

This segment was missing on the market aside the usual suspects such as Irish pubs, Italian eateries etc. A hidden better side, says Benny, with a hint at the name.

“We have refined classics in the bar and the kitchen, so come and experience a refined Bangkok!”

Thomas invitates.

And so far it seems the concept was right: since gradually opening they have enjoyed brisk business.

“What surprised us was how quickly it happened; it did not take many months until it filled up com-

Opens Now, one can enter on a night with full tables and not recognize anyone! And it’s fantastic that on any given Friday people dress up and go to Hyde & Seek to feast.

pletely,” says Bennie.

“We have been very positively welcomed and it’s great to see that people appreciate one’s vision. The idea behind it was really to create a place that oneself was missing,” comments Dannie.

The three Swedes, often seen in action at H&S, are themselves advocates a the come-as-you-are concept, wearing casual t-shirts and jeans.

Dannie explains: “Wearing suites can make a place a bit too stiff and exclusive - which we are definitely not trying to be. We present quality products and a relaxed, playful atmosphere. It’s not a big deal; just come and enjoy!”

The guest clientele appealed by their signature laidback and anything-goes atmosphere is also to their highest satisfaction.

“Compared to many other places here in Bangkok we have an extremely varied and mixed crowd,” says Bennie. Often in Bangkok you know exactly which people will be in this and that restaurant or bar, so there is no excitement.”

H&S attracts anything from high-level corporate Thais and “super hot” ladies to Korean tourists and the guys from the office down the street.

And he points out one specific observation: “The mixing of a bit upper class Thais with a younger crowd is quite unusual to see.”

And word of mouth spreading internationally makes new guests

flocking to H&S, giving more of a wow-effect than in the beginning when all their friends came.

“Now, one can enter on a night with full tables and not recognize anyone! And it’s fantastic that on any given Friday people dress up and go to Hyde & Seek to feast,” says Thomas.

Inside, H&S unfurls its timeless, interior with European wooden wall panels and vintage green and grey hues. And with its dark tropical timber bar stools and high tables it could fit well into a classic-styled, Euro-Asian setting.

As for the name, it is well thought-out and comes with many explanations: clearly a wordplay referring to the game Hide & Seek, but also Hyde Park-inspired and meant to reflect a playground for adults to hide in and play.

“You can hide from anyone or anything, while you’re also allowed to seek pleasure in food and beverage or whatever might be hiding,” smiles Thomas.

“It’s simply a place to be in where many things can happen. And that vision has come true with our very diverse audience which is in itself is a pleasure for adults.”

And as a core part of Flow Cocktail’s activities cocktails play an important role at H&S. “It’s our passion and we want to improve the whole drinking culture, not only to serve great drinks. It’s an ambition we’ve had since we first arrived to Thailand and something we

want to continue here at Hyde & Seek where our customers are curious and want to try out nice cocktails etc. More and more people are well-travelled and visit incredibly good bars where the drinking culture are light years ahead of what it is here and when they return it’s not that they don’t want to experience that again, it’s rather that they cannot find more than a handful of decent places in a town of 10 million, says Dannie.

This new platform also enables them to continue educating the consumers about the cocktail culture, and now more completely at venues where they are in full control, able to utilize all the things

learned and experimenting further.

And a lot, they reckon, can be done in Bangkok alone.

They will never rest on their laurels, thinking they have found a perfected formula.

“That won’t happen in this business,” says Dannie, “people change constantly and quickly get tired of something so one must stay one step ahead all the time.”

“There are so much one wants to improve and fine-tune and we haven’t shown our full capacity yet,” says Thomas.

“Keep your eyes and ears open for more new places from us in Bangkok. More will come,” ends Bennie.

August 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 13

Mostly Danish, Maybe..

Moving back and forth between Denmark and Thailand, “lookkrueng” Michael Chompookas Hansen feels at home in both countries.

I still think of Denmark as my ‘home.’

When I say ‘I will go home’, I mean to Denmark.

By Soffi Chanjira Larsen

F

or the past year, Michael Chompookas Hansen has been happy living in Hua Hin with his Danish girlfriend Helle Deleuran. The 26 yearold ‘look krueng’ was born in Denmark, but later he moved with his parents to live in Thailand.

Then, when he was about 13 year old, they moved back again to Denmark. And now he is back again in Thailand.

Everytime he has moved back or forth between the two countries,he has left a part of him in each country.

“When I am in Denmark I am Danish and when I am in Thailand I am Thai,” he says. But in neither culture he sees himself as either Thai or Danish only.

When Michael moved with his parents to Thailand for the first time, he was sent to an international school. But later his parents took an unusual step and placed him at a local school after his first years in the international school.

They wanted him to be good at both languages Danish and Thai, however his father said that Danish could wait and Michael only came to speak Thai.

cent Thai than ever since in his life, and now he had to give it all up.

“I had to give up all my friends in Thailand and that was hard,” Michael says.

The language barrier was the hardest part. He did not understand Danish because he never spoke Danish in Thailand and being the only child and having no one else to practice with, he was left on foreign ground. No one understood him and he did not understand anybody.

However, the new school in Denmark made a great effort and gave him extra lessons in Danish and soon he was able to communicate with his school mates. His new friends also took him under their wings and let him tag along to various activities like football, a sport he still plays. A couple of months ago, he played in the Viking Cup. “Little by little, I quietly forgot Thailand, because I got so many new good friends in Denmark,” Michaels says.

Had to give up all friends At about 13 years Michael's dad, who worked for the oil company, KosmoOil, was offered another job and the family moved back to Denmark. They also believed that the education system in Denmark was better than the Thai education system.

Michael did not look forward to moving to Denmark he recalls.

“I really did not know what I had to look forward too,” he says.

At the time he felt more 100 pro14 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

Farang Last year when Michael got the opportunity to move to Thailand, he took the chance. He had just finished his education as a building engineer and needed a job when the opportunity showed up. Some phone calls were made, an application was sent and soon he was on his way to Thailand with his girlfriend by his side.

Being back in Thailand is not a problem for Michael. He have been back to Thailand each year since he moved to Denmark and still has some Thai friends here whom he has known since his childhood. But he is constantly being taken for a 'farang', getting to pay the 'farang' prices, etc. etc. which annoys and bothers him.

It is difficult to convince the Thais that he is thai. When he finally speaks Thai and they hear him, they often get a shock because his Thai is clear and without any trace of an accent.

“Well, it's not so bad, you get used to it,” he says, outweighing the

good with the bad,” Michaels say in his strong north Jutland accent.

Lost his mother last year On Michael's right arm he has a tattoo that says 'Chompookas' in ‘Italic’ letters. It is his mothers name, but he has had the tattoo for years.

However Michael lost his mother last year in a car accident in Thailand. Michaels mother was the 'thai' part of him, but he does not feel that he has lost the link to Thailand.

“I am older now, but I think if I had lost her as a 12-13 year old, I would probably have lost my connection to Thailand completely. Now I am independent.” he says, again outweighing the good with te bad. ”It is the worst thing that can happen to anyone - to lose someone like this - because you did not have the chance to say what you wanted. But you cannot just sit and pity yourself.”

Michael did not skip any exams, work or other obligations. Only postponed some obligations when his mother passed away.

One more year Building up a career in Thailand is going well and Michael and Helle plan to stay one more year when his contracts expires within a few month. Currently,they plan to move to downtown Hua Hin so they can get closer to social life and work up a network of Thai's also.

“We have some Thai friends in Bangkok and Danish friends here but I would like to get to know some Thai friends here also,” he says.

Staying on for good in Thailand is, however, not the plan.

“I still think of Denmark as my 'home.' When I say 'I will go home', I mean to Denmark.” Michael says.

Three Days of Inspiration & Vision:

Norway - Asia Business Over three days from 29 September to 1 October, Norwegian businessmen from all over Asia will gather in Singapore for a high paced, top inspirational, visionary look at opportunities and challenges for doing business in a fast changing Asia.

By Gregers Moller

T

he Norway - Asia Business Summit is a major regional event for Norwegians in Asia. This year, the Norway - Asia Business Summit takes place on 29 September - 1 October 2011 in Singapore.

“The program has been put together to be of interest for Norwegian businessmen in Asia, Asian partners of Norwegian companies and Norwegians in Norway with business in Asia.

There is no need to be a member of any Norwegian Chamber or Business Association - anyone is welcome to attend the summit,” says Ms. Kjersti Thorvildsen, Head of Secretariat of the Norwegian Business Association (Singapore) - NBAS. Deadline for signing up is on 2 September and the fee is 750 S$ for the summit.

The Norway - Asia Business Summit was last year held in Shanghai in connection with the World Expo. This time it is back in Singapore where it will again take place on Sentosa Island at the Sentosa Resort & Spa. “The benefit of Sentosa Island is that it is near and still away from downtown Singapore. If you are doing business in Singapore, the temptation to drop out of a session to quickly take care of something in the office is not there,” Kjersti Thorvildsen explains.

The summit coincided with

16 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

the visit to Singapore of Norway’s Standing Committee of Finance and Economic Affairs, and the Chair of the Committee, Mr. Torgeir Micaelsen, will be a Key Note Speaker during the opening session.

Thursday 29 September Registration starts on Thursday at 16.00 at the Conference Centre Lobby at the Sentosa Resort & Spa. At 17.00, the Opening Address will be held in the Straits Ballroom

by Her Exellency Janne Julsrud, Ambassador of Norway to Singapore.

Welcome & Introduction will then follow by Mr. Erik Borgen, President of the Norwegian Business Association (Singapore) immediately after.

Mr. Torgeir Micaelsen, Chairman of the Standing Committee of Finance and Economic Affairs, will then deliver his Key Note Speech to the participants.

Mr. Yngve Slyngstad, CEO of Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM), will deliver a second Key Note Speech immediately after.

At 18.00, cocktails are served at the Straits Verandah of the Resort and at 19.00 the Buffet Dinner is ready in the Straits Ballroom.

Friday 30 September On Friday the program starts at 8.30 with a keynote address by Mr. Tan Choon Shian, Deputy Managing Director or Singapore’s Economic De-

velopment Board. Mr. Tan Choon Shian will share insights and practical examples how Singapore again and again is able to turn risks into rewards and adversity into competitive edge.

At 9.00 two speakers with exceptional insight and vision will speak under the title “Asia 2020; From West to East - the rise of the rest?” The first speaker will be Mr. Victor D. Norman, Ph.D. Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration and former Norwegian Minister of Labor and Government Administration.

The next speaker will be Prof. Jorgen Orstrom Moller, Visiting Senior Research Fellow, Institute of Southeast Asian Studies in Singapore and former Ambassador of Denmark to Singapore.

The two will talk about how Asia will look in 2020 in a worst case and a best case scenario. How will mega drivers within Politics, Finance, Energy & Transport, Environment, Demographic Composition and Manufacturing develop? What barriers and opportunities will this present for companies in the next decade.

After a short coffee break at 10.00, the Friday program continues.

At 10.30, Mr. Oliver Tonby, Senior partner and Managing Director, McKinsey Oil & Gas, Indonesia, will talk about “Cracking the code for Asia - what Norwegian busi-

Summit in Singapore nesses can do to capture the biggest growth wave of recent times.

This will at 10.50 be followed by a panel discussion between Mr. Oyvind Eriksen, CEO, Aker ASA, Mr. Carl Arnet, CEO, BW Offshore, Mr. Sigve Brekke, President, Telenor Asia, Mr. Thor Jorgen Guttormsen, President, Norwegian Shipowners Association, moderated by the former speaker, Mr. Oliver Tonby.

Are we up for it?

After lunch, the first session is headlined “Are we up for the challenge?”

The three speaker Ms. Aase Aulie Michelet, member of the board of Orkla ASA, Norske Skog ASA Cermaq ASA and Photocure ASA, Mr. Per M. Ristvedt, Managing Partner of Wikborg Rein & Co., Singapore, and the Swedish speaker on business creativity Mr. Frederik Haren.

After a coffee break, a panel discussion will sum up the day.

The panelists are Ms. Gunn Ovesen, President and CEO, Innovation Norway, His Excellency Knut Solem, Ambassador of Norway to the Philippines, Ms. Aase Aulie Michelet, member of the board of Orkla ASA, Norske Skog ASA Cermaq ASA and Photocure ASA, Mr. Victor D. Norman, Ph. D. Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration and former Norwegian Minister of Labor and Government Administration, and Prof. Jorgen Orstrom Moller, Visit-

ing Senior Research Fellow,Institute of Southeast Asian Studies in Singapore and former Ambassador of Denmark to Singapore.

At 18.30 there are cocktails followed by a BBQ Dinner by the poolside.

Saturday 1 October The morning session on Saturday is a closer look at five case stories or Norwegian companies that are and have been making a difference in Asia - and what can be learned from this.

The five companies will be Telenor Group, Sarawak Energy Berhad, PT Sulawesi Mini Power - Tinfos AS / KF Gruppen AS, probably Jotun China and finally a company from the Philippines to be selected later.

After the lunch at the Terrace, there is a Norwegian Business Chambers’ Meeting with limited participation to formally end the Norway -Asia Business Summit 2011.

days. Apart from that, a guided tour of Singapore followed by a lunch downtown is offered on Friday and in the afternoon a spa treatment is suggested at one of the Sentosa Resort & Spa’s tempting pampering spas.

The spouse program is flexible and can be selected for certain parts only.

Spouse programme

The latest program and application form can be downloaded from www.nbas.org.sg

Spouses are welcome to the cocktail receptions and meals on all three

Organized by:

In Cooperation with:

Main Sponsor:

August 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 17

The most important thing is that we give them a taste of our service.

Hotel Management the Bergvall Way Claes Bergvall feels he is a part of a huge caring family at The Peony Hotel in Hua Hin. The owners, his own Thai family by the way, the staff, and the tenants all take care of each other while they share the task taking care of the guest.

By Bjarne Wildau

C

laes Bergvall, the Swedish manager of The Peony Hotel in Hua Hin, knows it all as far as hotel business goes. Managing The Peony Hotel together with his family, he speaks of his experience getting into the time old business of hotels and resorts.

When Bergvall first arrived Thailand in 1999 he had already worked with hospitality back in Sweden. But it did not take him long to realize that he was ready to move here for good and contribute to this country the best he can.

“I was here during the winter season and I was hooked right away.

Thailand became the place for me.

Besides, I was 55 and I felt my life simply had to change.”

In 2001, Bergvall settled down in his first house in Hua Hin. A few years later, in 2003, he went on to buy a piece of land, which he quickly sold off to some other enthusiastic Swedish buyers.

Seven years with The Peony It was during this time that Bergvall met his current wife, Nin, who at 18 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

that time managed The Peony Hotel, together with her brother and her former husband. After some arrangements and time, Nin offered the hotel daily managements to Claes which he accepted and has been heading for the past seven years.

Not long after he had taken over the management, he began to discover the potential of the hotel.

He pointed out the possible usages of all the 36 unused rooms in the hotel, which were in fact in one of the best locations in Hua Hin. Slowly but surely he made use of the rooms by establishing attractive facilities such as a Thai and Swedish massage parlor, a restaurant, a beauty salon, a bar and more.

These were a huge success.

The restaurant is just taken over by the experienced Finnish Chef Sipi and hiss Thai wife. The two of them has been running a restaurant in Helsinki for more than 17 years.

“My way was not to hire lots of people and then fight with the staff on a daily basis,” he said explaining that he had instead sourced out all the facilities.

Trip arrangements Now, Bergvall has expanded his services to making trip arrangements for those interested in visiting the golf course. He would arrange their trip to a golf course of their choice and back to their hotel of their choice, even if it was not Peony.

“The most important thing is that we give them a taste of our service,” said Bergvall who personally plays golf at least five times a week.

Despite his busy schedule, Bergvall has found time to develop the Peony Resort fitted with 20 apartments and he is building six houses for sale. At this point, four of the six houses are sold.

Soft selling approach Bergvall is not much for pumped up sales talks. He enjoys his daily relaxed and easy conversations with his potential guests or buyers.

When guests talk about the resort and its privileges to their friends, it is a healthy advantage for the resort.

“We talk with our guest, they talk to each other and all of a sudden, some houses and apartments are sold,” he said.

Get more out of Living in Bangkok 2011 This year’s Living in Bangkok 2011 – held Saturday, September 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Bumrungrad International Hospital – is the mustattend event for expatriates to discover the people, organisations and community resources they need to unlock Bangkok’s enormous potential.

his year marks the 13th edition of the event, and it’s set to be

the biggest Living in Bangkok so far. More than 70 groups

will be showcasing the best and newest the city has to offer across a range of activities, services, products and organisations.

Visitors can discover new food and recreation activities, meet representatives from international schools and after-school groups for children of all ages, discover new travel ideas, and find worthy organisations where newcomers can make a difference across a range of community and charitable initiatives.

Giving back

To highlight the contributions being made to needy communities across Thailand, several Bangkok expats will share their stories and show how rewarding it can be to give to those most in need.

Thai and international cuisine, from Japanese takoyaki to English mince pie.

Those feeling a longing for a hard-to-

The new and familiar

Living in Bangkok co-organiser ThaiCraft will offer a wide selection of its popular, locally-made products. Discover modern and traditional handicrafts from more than 60 artisan groups, including textiles, jewellery, beauty products and baskets.

Get an early start on Christmas shopping, and feel good buying from an organisation

resources from Bangkok’s many and varied community groups and like-minded individuals, in one convenient location. At this year’s event, you can find everything from golf, tennis and boating clubs to women’s, parenting and baby groups, and many communitybased organisations.

One example is Soep Moi Arts, which produces high quality hand-made baskets, scarves, fabrics and textiles.

Proceeds from the sale of beautiful Soep Moi products go directly back to the individuals who made them.

Recreation

There will be plenty of ideas and experts on hand to enhance your leisure time pursuits. Whether you’re keen on adventure travel or just looking for new spots for walking tours, come meet the people and organisations that can help you discover a new city, a new country, and new destinations further afoot.

Entertainment and prizes

that provides Thai artisans a fair price for their work.

A new addition this year is Food Discovery, a zone dedicated to culinary delights from all over the city. Eight popular restaurants will sample delicious

find food item from home can meet the vendors who can satisfy those cravings.

Community connections

Living in Bangkok 2011 offers the opportunity to meet people and discover

There will be plenty of entertainment throughout the day, with music, art and pantomime performances by kids from international schools and community groups. Lucky draws will be giving away great prizes all day long, including free travel and hotel stays, free meals at great Bangkok eateries, plus spa treatments, gift hampers and more.

Save the date 9/10/11 Living in Bangkok 2011 takes place on Saturday, September 10, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Bumrungrad International Hospital. Complimentary shuttle bus service runs from BTS Nana station, exit 1 along Sukhumvit Road. Admission is free.

It’s All About the Sauce “As a chef you can buy the best meat or fish in the world.

But if you don’t put your soul into the sauce - you will loose it all,” says Kenneth Timonen the recognized chef behind one of Hua Hin’s gastronomic pearls, KK Restaurant & Bar situated in the garden of Peony Hotel almost opposite Sofitel Resort in the centre of town.

By Bjarne Wildau

I

t all started with a dream. As a teenager Kenneth would die for the opportunity to learn the trade from one of the best in the business in Sweden. The dream came true when he became a trainee of the world famous Swedish chef Tore Wretman.

“Tore Wretman taught me so much, I learned a lot from him and later I worked for and with him as a professional chef. One of the things, he could talk about for days, was how important the sauce is to the meal”, says Kenneth Timonen, who set up several different restaurants in Sweden before he went to Thailand for the first time in 2006.

“I am a friend of the manager of Peony Hotel and I took over the restaurant attached to the hotel three years a go. Since then more and more people have heard about my wife Kannika and I. When they

come here, we do whatever we can to make them happy so they come back”.

Make people happy!

“After all it’s about making people happy. Cook food they will never forget, and then they will bring their friends next time”.

Listening to Kenneth it is clear that he knows his trade and is even proud of what he is doing. ”I am a chef. It’s my life. If I am waiting at the golf course my thoughts wander to how to cook this or that. And where ever I am I always bring my cards. On the golf court or if I hear Swedish or Finnish in a supermarket I say hello to people and hand over my card.”

So what makes the guests come back time after time?

“It’s the sauce - in a combination with the whole setup,” he smiles.

20 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

“But if you ask what our guests prefer, Sole Fillet has been the most popular meal on our menu from day one,” says Kenneth.

Half year in Finland Kenneth Timonen is in Hua Hin almost six months per year and the rest of the day in Finland where he the last two seasons has had a restaurant at the Kartano golf court in Joroinen.

“I leave Hua Hin in April. Later, my wife Kannika joins me in Finland. Then when the Finnish season comes to an end, she will go back to Thailand a month before me,” he explains.

After all it’s about making people happy.

Cook food they will never forget, and then they will bring their friends next time.

Casa Seaside in Rayong:

It’s Where I Belong!

Casa Seaside projects have been developed close to the beach, in beautiful, natural, quiet and clean surroundings near to popular tourist destinations.

SEA BREEZE : 2 Bedrooms / 1 Bathroom - Total usable area: 102 Sq.m.

C

asa Seaside projects are located near to both conveniences such as grocery stores, shopping centers, restaurants, as well as, activities such as golf and water sports.

The projects are also developed with extensive facilities so that villa owners will have plenty of activities to do within the project itself.

Casa Seaside is developed by Casa Ville Company Limited, which is a fully owned subsidiary of Quality

House Public Company Limited (Q House). Q House is one of the top five largest residential property developers on the Stock Exchange of Thailand with a market capitalization of 14,750.57 Million Baht (as of June 22, 2011).

Currently, Q House is actively selling 24 single detached housing projects, 20 under the Quality House and Casa brands, as well as, 4 under Trust brand in Thailand out of which the vast majority are located in the outskirts of Bangkok.

22 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

Q House is also actively selling 6 condominium projects, one under the Q brand and two under Casa brands and 3 under the Trust brand in Thailand.

Q House also is also one of the largest serviced apartment providers in Thailand through its Centre Point brand. It also owns 3 office buildings as well as manages another 3 office buildings in central Bangkok.

It is also a large shareholder in Quality Houses Property Fund (QHPF), Home Product Center Pcl

(Home Pro), as well as, in Land & Houses Retail Bank Plc (LH Bank).

As of 1Q11, Q House reported Total Revenues of 2,347 billion baht and net profits of 157 million baht.

The Projects Casa Seaside projects are in innovative tropical modern style, featuring beautiful 2-3 bedrooms single storey villas with full facilities clubhouse.

Project location has been selected right by the beach in Rayong.

Pre-Selling now 10% Rental guarantee* Special Pre-Sales package Te l : Bangkok Office +66 (0) 2677 7071 Te l : Rayong Office +66 (0) 3865 5484 info@casaseaside.com www.casaseaside.com SEA GARDEN : 2 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms - Total usable area: 107 Sq.m.

The Facilities: Casa Seaside project have extensive facilities such has a club house, a 50-meter swimming pool, tennis courts, saunas and a fitness center.

Services: Villa buyers will benefit from available rental services, gardening service and maid services.

Villas Within The Projects: The villas are developed in modern tropical style with open living

space and functional living- & diningrooms. The large windows allow for plenty of natural light and provide a sense of living close to nature. Each villa has an extensive wooden terrace, a space to enjoy good times with family as well as a private garden.

Rayong The Casa Seaside Villa project by Hat Mae Rumphueng beach in Rayong is located approximately 199 kilometers from Bangkok.

Rayong is another delightful seaside province on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast. Most of Rayong Province is marked by mountains interspersed by flat plains and large tracts of fruit plantations and forests. However, the province is most well known for its pristine beaches stretching along its 100-kilometer coastline and its scenic waterfalls set amidst exotic surroundings. Aside from these natural attractions, Rayong produces an abundance of seafood products, such as shrimp paste, fish sauce, and

dried seafood, and grows a number of tropical fruits of which rambutan, mangosteen and durian are the most famous.

Rayong is most renowned for its quiet and unspoiled beaches, including Mu Koh Samet National Park, Rayong is a popular beach getaway destination for Bangkok residents and a renowned producer of seafood related goods.

The Casa Seaside Villa project in Rayong will feature 184 villas.

SEA ORCHID 2 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms Total usable area: 147 Sq.m.

August 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 23

Rayong Rich and Rising

Located approximately 220 kilometers from Bangkok, Rayong is another delightful seaside province on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast.

By Steen Poulin Nielsen

24 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

M

ost of Rayong Province is marked by mountains interspersed by flat plains and large tracts of fruit plantations and forests. However, the province is most well known for its pristine beaches stretching along its 100-kilometer coastline and its scenic waterfalls set amidst exotic surroundings.

Aside from these natural attractions, Rayong produces an abundance of seafood products, such as shrimp paste, fish sauce, and dried seafood, and grows a number of tropical fruits.

Historically, in the late Ayutthaya period following the razing of the capital city by the invading Burmese, General Tak led a troop of patriots who broke through the cordon of besieging troops and marched

to Rayong in order to build up his navy before proceeding onto Chanthaburi. Because of his courage and bravery, the soldiers and local population anointed him as “King” in Rayong. Once he had built up sufficient troop strength, King Taksin returned to Ayutthaya, routed the Burmese and set up a new capital in Thonburi, across the river from modern-day Bangkok.

Boasting indispensable sea-life resources, Rayong is one of the country’s major agricultural and industrial provinces. On the other hand, the province has maintained its traditions and customs in the daily lifestyles of the locals. Most renowned for its quiet and unspoiled beaches, including Koh Samet, Rayong is a popular beach getaway destination for Bangkok residents.

August 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 25

Where to Eat?

Offshore Bar and Restaurant in Ban Chang

Eating in Ban Phe

A

s you’d expect from a coastal town, Ban Phe serves up simple, tasty seafood. A handful of bars and seafood restaurants can be found on the eastern side of town, but the best place to eat is at Baan Rabeang Mai 2, opposite Mac Garden Resort.

With few people stopping in Ban Phe for long, you aren’t left with too many other dining options: cheap noodle shops line the main avenue and a couple of tourist restaurants near the pier offer basic fare. On the downside the noodle and stir-fry shops mostly lack English menus, but it shouldn’t be too difficult to order a simple som tam or fried rice.

For early risers, Chopana, located opposite Christie’s, has rich, dark coffee and a breakfast menu.

O

ne of the best restaurants in Rayong Province is the partly Scandinavian owned Offshore Bar and restaurant serving international food and some Thai specialities. The menu is quite comprehensive and covers British, Scandinavian, Italian, American (burgers) and Thai food. There is even a traditional English breakfast. Nice relaxed atmosphere. The owners make you feel welcome.

The food is always cooked fresh and is also great value for money.

Sports pub, pizzas, takeaway menu and beer garden. The Offshore is a favourite with expats and golfers and is usually busier in the evenings. This place is well worth a visit.

Source: www.travelfish.org

Offshore Ban Chang 1/38-39 Moo1, T. Pala A. Ban Chang Rayong 21130 Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 38 601 025 Fax: +66 (0) 38 602107

Finn’s Pizza Rayong

I

f seafood is not really what you are into, mayby Finn´s Pizza is the place for you. ”Finn’s Pizza” is known as Australian Pizza Style. Finn´s Pizza is found in Chiang Mai and has recently opened its outlet in Rayong.

Finn´s Pizza offers pizza with full fill with special toppings. All food is cometitive priced delivered with friendly services.

Open 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Holiday on every Monday.

Finn’s Pizza @Rayong 131/86 M.2 Tubma, Muang Rayong, Thailand Mobile Phone: +66 (0) 8 7782 8385

26 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

Cocohut Beach Resort & Spa

“Live with Nature, Party with the moon”

One of the most beautiful beach on Phangan island, and it’s just five minutes walk from Had Rin beach, Full Moon Party.

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We provide varieties of accommodations.

With nice private beach, you can really relax and enjoy the breeze.

Let have fun!

Cocohut Beach Resort & Spa 130/20 Had Rin Nai, Sun set, Leela or Seekantang Beach, Moo 6 T. Bantai A.Koh Phangan Suratthani 84280 Thailand Tel. +66 (0) 77 375 368-9 Fax +66 (0) 77 375 368 www.cocohut.com Email : rsvncocohut@gmail.com, info@cocohut.com

What to Do?

Khao Chamao/Khao Wong National Park

K

hao Chamao/Khao Wong National Park covers an area of about 84 square km. inland from Ban Phe, 17km north of the Km 274 marker off Highway 3.

Animals to be seen includes elephant, gaur, serow, bear, wild pig, deer, pileated gibbon and banded langur.

There are also 53 confirmed bird species including the wreathed and great hornbills..

You can stay at a camp site (per person 50B) or rent a 2-person bungalow (600B to 800B). To book, email reserve@dnp.go.th, or phone 0 2562 0760.

There is heavy rain from May to October about 3,000 mm. of rain per year, nicely cold from November to February, and summer from March to April with approximately 26-27 degrees Celsius all the year round.

Contact: Phone no. 0-3889-4378; reserve@dnp.go.th; admission 400 Baht; 8.30am-4.30pm http://www.kookgiggstour.com/his_supattra.php

Rayong Aquarium

L

ocated in the Eastern Marine Fisheries Research and Development Centre, Ban Phe, the aquarium keeps various kinds of beautiful fish and sea plants. The centre conducts study, research and testing regarding marine biology and behaviors of marine life. A large aquarium with a tunnel allows visitors to see various beautiful fish as well as economic-related creatures living in the mangrove forest such as cuttlefish, crab, giant clam, and horseshoe crab.

The outdoor aquarium also houses various marine life. The turtle pond houses hawksbill turtles, olive turtles, and leatherback turtles. The fish pond houses large species of fish. Visitors can witness the real underwater world in a special pond that houses starfish, anemone and sea cucumber. Various fishery tools in miniature are also displayed. The Fossil Museum exhibits stuffed and extinct animals as well as a display of rare animals such as humpback dolphin and Irrawaddy Dolphin. Seafood products are available on sale outside the building.

The Rayong Aquarium is open from Wed-Fri: 10.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. and on weekends from 10.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.

28 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

Visit a Fruit Orchard

R

ayong is renowned for its tropical fruit, and the best way to see where it comes from is to visit the large orchard, Supattra Land Orchard, that is open to the public to witness its fruit variety.

During harvest season, from April to June, the orchard organizes an orchard trip to explore the farm by car and enjoy fresh fruits for 30 minutes. The trip costs 120 baht per person. The orchard is open daily for tourists from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Accommodation is available Address: Nong Lalok, Ban Khai, Rayong 21120 Contact: Phone: 03889 2048

Fruit to be enjoyed: • Durian • Rambutan • Mangosteen • Longkong • Mango • Rose apple • Longan • Keo-mung-kon fruit (Dargon fruit)

Thai Thani Pool Villa Resort PATTAYA THAILAND

100/3 Moo 4, Soi Greg 4 T. Nongplalai A. Banglamung Chonburi 20150 Tel. +66 (038) 371-329 / Fax. +66 (038) 371-330 Email: info@thaithani.co.th, reservations@thaithani.co.th ww w. t h a i t h a n i p o o l v i l l a . c o m August 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 29

Where to Stay?

Villa Ravadee Resort & Spa

V

Villa Ravadee Resort & Spa 120/8 Moo 3, Tambol Chakpong, Amphor Klang, Rayong 21190 Thailand.

Tel: +66 38 647 842, +66(0) 8383-11112 Email: villaravadee@hotmail.com www.villaravadee.com

illa Ravadee Resort & Spa is located on Mae-Pim approximately two hours from Bangkok. Villa Ravadee is a tropical sea paradise offering a natural and relaxed atmosphere. The bungalows at the villa Ravadee are unique in design, blending bamboo with other natural material. Villa Ravadee design is elegant chic, blending traditional Thai and contemporary architecture.

The bungalows offer impressive views of the panoramic ocean, perfect for guests seeking relaxation and serenity.

There are 10 deluxe rooms and six family villas for big families. A deluxe room with breakfast can be found at a cost between 3,000-3,500 Baht per night. In a Family Villa up to six to seven people can stay at a cost of around 6,500 Baht per villa per night.

This nice little hideout in Rayong features also an infinity pool, separate living area and flat screen satellite TVs. The rooms are equipped with a refrigerator and mini bar. Complimentary fruits are offered on arrival.

Other facilities at the resort include a nice bar and restaurant, an Internet room and a function room to host meetings, conferences and other activities. You can also rent kayaks and snorkeling equipment there. Villa Ravadee will provide you with beach towels, snacks and beverages and a variety of swimming utensils.

Villa Ravadee’s beauty Home Spa offers a combination of exquisite treatments, professional caring service, using only high-quality natural products in a beautiful setting and tranquil ambience. The Spa is situated in the tropical garden of the resort and offers a complete programme of delightful indulging treatments, including Thai herbal steam and soak treatments, a variety of massage therapies, facial treatments and more.

X2 Rayong Resort

T

he X2 Rayong Resort by Design, Centara Boutique Collection (formerly X2 Rayong) is located on the idyllic and secluded beach of Laem Mae Phim, Rayong. It features 13 exclusive boutique-accommodation units for those who seek absolute tranquility in style.

With extensive private terraces, a swimming pool, state of the art facilities and stunning sea views, X2 Rayong Resort by Design, Centara Boutique Collection is a 5-star true tropical haven resort surrounded by lush tropical foliage.

Inspired by the beauty of Rayong’s Koh Samet Island, Laem Mae Phim was the place where Sunthorn Phu, the Shakespeare of Thailand, wrote his masterpiece. The beauty of its 100 kilometre coastline and nearby islands attracts many local and international travelers during the weekends and holidays.

X2 (pronounced “Cross-To”) is a truely designed property within the Centara Boutique Collection, catering to a cosmopolitan group of creative and stylish guests that enjoy living life and want a first class private holidays accommodation without the usually restrictive environment of luxury hotels & resorts. For those guests that appreciate a contemporary difference, X2 Centara properties allow you to cross to (X2) a whole new dimension of designed luxury and to experience life as it should be.

A Deluxe Ocean Facing room with breakfast can be found at a cost between 4600 Baht and 9100 Baht depending when you want to go.

30 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

X2 Rayong Resort by Design 215/3 Moo 3, Laem Mae Phim, Klaeng, Rayong, 21190, Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 3865 7378, 80 8014230 Fax: +66 (0) 3865 7379 Email: x2ry@chr.co.th www.centarahotelsresorts.com/x2ry/x2ry_default.asp

Lanna Style Hotel Near Suvarnabhumi Airport Experience a sense of Lanna at Mariya Boutique Residence Hotel at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Hotel Contact Details: Mariya Boutique Residence 1627/2 Ladkrabang Road Ladkrabang, Bangkok 10520 Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 2326 7854-5 Email: info@mariyahotel.com www.mariyahotel.com

M

ariya Boutique Residence is a boutique hotel in Bangkok that provides delightful accommodations with the intimacy of a bed and breakfast. Located only 5 minutes from Suvarnabhumi Airport, the only place providing Lanna (Northern Thai) charm in the area; Mariya Boutique Residence is a low-rise 4-storey building renowned for its exclusive service and boutique lounge.

The Mariya offers 37 guest rooms in an exquisite Lanna Style with the highest standards.

All first class amenities are meant to provide a unique sanctuary for you to relax in and enjoy your time before continuing your onward journey in and around Thailand.

All rooms feature very comfortable beds and top quality bed liner, multi-language TV Channels,

LCD TV, bathrobes and slippers, small pantry area with kitchenettes, microwave, private balcony and more for guests’ convenience and relaxation.

Standing out among myriads of other Bangkok airport hotels, the Mariya offers spectacular values for all guests with our strikingly different facilities: • Free Wi-Fi Internet connection • Free use of business center • Free round-trip airport transfer • Free access to the 24-hour boutique lounge in cozy atmosphere allowing guests to relax in and enjoy our fine selection of snacks, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, fruit juice, and fresh fruit at any time of the day.

“Mooncakes” at The Peninsula Bangkok Hotel chefs to prepare 3,000 mooncakes daily during 1 August to 12 September 2011

For further information, please contact: The Peninsula Bangkok Tel: +66 (0) 2861 2888 ext. 6205 / Fax: +66 (0) 2861 2361 E-mail: cvisith@peninsula.com www.peninsula.com 32 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

F

rom 1 August to 12 September 2011 The Peninsula Bangkok honours the popular and delicious mooncake, with the Mid-Autumn Festival 2011.

Mooncakes are traditionally eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival or Zhongqiu Festival.

One of the four most important Chinese festivals, it is for lunar worship and moon watching.

Mooncakes are considered an indispensable delicacy on this occasion and are offered between friends and colleagues and at family gatherings while celebrating the festival.

The Peninsula Bangkok’s Executive Chinese Chef Jackie Ho and his team will this year produce 128,000 mooncakes (the equivalent of 3,000 mooncakes per day) using approximately 25 tonnes of ingredients. The delicious treats are available in two flavours – Lotus Seed Paste and the best seller, Egg Custard, which is created from a traditional secret recipe.

The homemade mooncakes sell at THB 520 per box of eight. Bulk orders can be made at special corporate prices.

From 1 to 12 September, mooncakes are also on sale at The Emporium (on the 5th floor, opposite the supermarket entrance) and Siam Paragon Shopping Complex (Ground floor, in front of the Gourmet Market).

Sunda Resort Krabi RELAX & ENJOY THE NATURE AT ITS BEST!!!!!

Come stay with us at Sunda Resort, where you will always be welcomed with a warm, friendly smile. You will experience nature at its best in the tranquil, garden setting and are just fews minute to beautiful Nopparat Thara beach.

Make Sunda Resort your “Home Away From Home” and discover the true hospitality of Thailand - The Land of Smiles.

Sunda Resort 19 Moo. 3, Ao-Nang, Muang Krabi 81000 Thailand Tel: +66 7566 1262-4, +66 89 230 9019 Fax: +66 7566 1266 E-mail: info@sundaresort.com, sales@sundaresort.com Website: www.sundaresort.com

Feel Refreshed at Fineday

“Many a Fine Day” is what we would like you to experience here at Krabi Fineday Resort. We are located in the Aonang-Haad Noppharatthara area. Here you can enjoy nature at its best and fully appreciate the tranquility of life. All guestrooms are designed as Thai style cottages, nestled closely to the abundant nature, where the stunning landscape will remind you of a tropical garden.

Krabi Fineday Resort 239 Moo 5, Aonang, Muang, Krabi 81000 Thailand Tel: +66 7566 1040-1 Fax: +66 7566 1042 E-mail: reservation@krabifinedayresort.com, info@krabifinedayresort.com www.krabifinedayresort.com

Hilton Pattaya Launches eforeaTM Spa Membership eforeaTM Spa at Hilton features an exclusive menu of treatment journeys and innovative design elements

H

ilton Pattaya recently announced the launch of the eforea™ spa at Hilton membership program. Promising to take guests on a transformative journey that indulges the senses, there will be two comprehensive membership options to choose from:

ULYSSES (6 MONTHS) 1 voucher for eforea™ Signature Treatment of your choice 1 voucher for Thai Massage 90 minutes 1 voucher for Efficient Manicure & Pedicure 1 voucher for Hair Wash & Blow Dry 1 upgrade voucher; book any 60 minutes body massage treatment and receive an additional 30 minutes complimentary Value of membership is over THB 9,000 NETT Our price: THB 6,000 NETT

MONARCH (12 MONTHS) 1 voucher for eforea™ Signature Treatment of your choice 1 voucher for Customized Cleansing Facial 60 minutes 1 voucher for Realigning Sports Massage 60 minutes 1 voucher for Thai Massage 90 minutes 1 voucher for Luxury Manicure & Pedicure 1 voucher for Hair Wash & Blow Dry 1 voucher for 50% discount on any single spa treatment 2 for 1 voucher for High Tea at Drift for 2 guests 1 upgrade voucher; book any 60 minutes body massage treatment and receive an additional 30 minutes complimentary Value of membership is over THB 16,000 NETT Our price: THB 10,000 NETT

For more information Tel: +66 (0) 3825 3000 Email: pattaya.info@hilton.com Website: eforeaspa.com

In addition members will receive 15% discount on all spa treatments as well as 10% discount on all LI’TYA, Kerstin Florian and VitaMan products. They will also have complimentary access to steam, sauna, Jacuzzi, relaxation and locker rooms.

With both memberships guests will receive an exclusive eforea™ member’s card, eforea™ key tag, product samples from one of the three spa product brands as well as spa treatment vouchers all presented in a beautiful silk box. eforea™: spa at Hilton is a global spa concept created by Hilton Hotels & Resorts, the flagship brand of Hilton Worldwide. The new spa solution features an exclusive menu of treatment journeys and innovative design elements, all providing a turnkey spa solution owners can easily implement and customize.

Leveraging its global reach and expertise, Hilton pulled the best elements and practices from Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and the Americas to create a unique concept for today’s savvy global travelers. eforea™ will also be available for DoubleTree and Embassy Suites Hotels.

Central Cottage Resort

C

entral Cottage Resort is located in Thong Nai Pan Yai, One of Koh Phangan’s most beautiful beaches. It is also a short walking distance to Than Prawet Waterfall. With a great location, Clean rooms and an excellent restaurant. Central Cottage is a great value to your vacate. Welcomes you to enjoy the best of Koh Phangan.

For the low-cost backpacker or modern deluxe air-con bungalows with mini-bar, hot water and UBC satellite TV for those in need of more luxury. Central Cottage Resort, a popular getaway retreat for those seeking solitude and peace at one of the Koh Phangan’s most beautiful beaches.

For more information pleae contact: 6/3 Moo 5 Bantai, Haad Thong Nai Pan Yai, Koh Phangan, Suratthani 84280 Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 77 445 128 , + 66 (0) 77 445 031 Fax: +66 (0) 77 445 032 E-mail: reservation@centralcottageresort.com 34 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

The Colors Of Life

Phangan Bayshore Resort and Spa Haad Rin Beach Phangan Bayshore Resort and Spa is directly on Haad Rin Nok, at the heart of the action most suitable for the Full Moon Party

and to enjoy the exotic nightlife available at Haad Rin.

141 Moo 6, Haad Rin, Bantai, Koh Phangan , Suratthani Thailand Tel: 66 77 375224, 375227 Fax : 66 77 375226

Email : info@phanganbayshore.com

Exploring Koh Kret

Dating back to 1722, Koh Kret Island contains culture and heritage which comes to life through art and design.

The pottery and colourful handicraft, similar to the ones found in the north of Thailand, serves as a signature of the Mon tribe in these places.

By Kristene Silva Marie

K

oh Kret, also known as Koh Kred, is a small island on the Chao Phraya River, 20 km north of Bangkok in Nonthaburi Province. The island differs from many other islands in Thailand as it is popularly known for the interesting handicrafts, pottery and food rather than a beach experience.

Much of the goods offered on the island are largely influenced by the Mon tribe that settled down there many years ago.

The island dates back to 1722 when a canal was constructed as a shortcut to bypass a large bend in the Om Kret branch of the river. As the canal was widened several times, the section eventually separated from the land making it an island.

The island was and continued to be a refuge to the Mon tribe, who dominated central Thailand between the 6th and 10th centuries, and have retained a distinct identity in their flavor of Buddhism and, particularly at Koh Kret, their pottery.

Historical Background The Mons are an ancient and influential people of Southeast Asia.

They settled in south eastern Burma and the central plains of Thailand before the arrival of the Burmans in the west of their lands, and the Thais in the east.

They were one of the earliest civilisations of Southeast Asia. They 36 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

were Buddhist with a high literacy rate by that time. Their script, developed from the Indian Deva Negari script, was one of the earliest writing systems in the area, and is the precursor of modern Burmese writing.

In Northern Thailand they founded the city of Haripunjaya (modern Lamphun - an important city in the history of Chiang Mai and the Northern Thai kingdom of Lan Na. It was via the Mons that Buddhism was introduced to the Tai peoples who entered the region from perhaps the tenth century onwards.

New Mon settlers have been arriving in Thailand from Burma for centuries, usually as (welcome) refugees during the Burmese wars with Ayutthaya. Many of the ancestors of the Mon communities living in Nonthaburi and Koh Kret were settled in the area in by King Taksin after the Burmese sack of Ayutthaya in 1767.

Things to Do Since there are no roads, only pathways of concrete and wood which connects the temples, pottery villages, riverside hamlets and restaurants, it would be convenient and nice to rent a bicycle to tour the island. Bicycles are usually up for rent at 20 Baht per hour or 40 Baht per day.

Strolling along those paths on foot is also an option, of course, especially if the weather is pleasant,

however it is good to keep in mind that the total distance circling the island is approximately 5.3 km and can get lonely when approaching the center of the island. It will however be great to walk with some company to keep.

Strolling along the path, on foot or bicycle, you will pass Thai hawker food where you will find “Kwey Tiao Reua�, also known as Boat Noodles. The ingredients for this dish are contained in a small model boat, sometimes they are contained and prepared in a full size one in front of an open air restaurant, and sometimes just the name is used.

If you visit the dock at Pak Kret, prior to catching the ferry to Koh Kret Island, you will find mats set out with tables and chairs where noodles, cooked on a small skiff is sold. The noodles, whether narrow or wide rice noodles with beef or pork and bean sprouts, flavoured with deep-fried garlic, coriander leaf, spring onions, crushed peanuts and fresh Chillis, are delicious especially in soup.

The taste for Boat Noodles reflects memories of the time when there were fewer roads in Thailand and most everyone travelled by boat, including the noodle vendors.

Apart from that, a widely recognised attraction is the Pottery Village which takes up much of the eastern riverside. The village is complete with brick kilns though most

have ceased being used such as one, which is apparently a ‘turtle-back’ kiln, has not been used since 1997.

There is however a lot of earthenware pottery for sale, especially in the village center, which is signposted on the right of the main path. The main shop is well laid-out with many examples of the potter’s art and design although most are for decorative purposes.

Other attractions include the Wat Paramai Yikawat temple and Wat Paramai Museum. The temple was known in the Ayutthaya period as Wat Pak Ao, the temple at the mouth of the inlet. It was renovated during the reign of King Rama V,

who then gave it its new name in memory of his grandmother. He also placed within the Chedi a relic of Buddha.

To the southwest of the Ubosot is a Wiharn surrounded by a gallery of Buddha images and contains a reclining Buddha from the Ayutthaya period which measures 9.5 meters in length. Unfortunately, as with many reclining Buddhas, the building tightly surrounds the statue making it difficult to see it entirely at any one time.

The interesting museum is located just north of the Ubosot and is opened in the afternoons during weekdays but mornings and after-

noons in the weekends. There are no charges to visit the museum.

The lower floor consists mainly of pottery exhibits, together with a short history of local potterymaking, described on the wall posters. The upper floor, although less organized display some interesting items including several collections of palm-leaf manuscripts of Buddhist scriptures.

There are also many other items which has to do with the origins or the natives, their culture and religion.

be boarding the express boat home with a whole lot of newly shopped items.

Getting There The quickest way to get to Koh Kret without much hassle or fuss to wake up is to take the BTS Skytrain to the Victory Monument station and from there board bus number 166, which is air-conditioned, from the west side of the monument. The bus trip to Pak Kret typically takes around 20 to 25 minutes via Expressway and costs only 19 Baht.

There is also bus number 505, from Pratu Nam to Pak Kret or bus number 32 from Wat Pho which could take up to one hour or more.

The Chao Phraya express boat runs from Sathorn Pier to Pak Kret pier, but only between 06.15 and 08.05 in the morning, and 16.05 and 18.05 in the afternoon.

Koh Kret is an island different in what it offers and a valuable experience. Chances are that you would August 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 37

Ubon Ratchathani

View from top of Pha Taem Cliff Sao Chaliang in Pha Taem National Park

Ubon Ratchathani province is located as far to the East in Thailand as you can get and quite ‘unknown’ to many.

But actually, travelling to Ubon by air takes only one hour. You can also go by car from Bangkok in about seven hours or take the charming 12 hour train ride.

By Pimjai Chaimongkol

38 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

Candle Float Parade

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he province features a strong Buddhist tradition, has many natural attractions, an age old handicraft tradition and a fascinating cultural heritage. In July, when the Candle Festival takes place, is a popular time to go - but the province can really be visited at all seasons.

Candle Festival The largest annual festival in Ubon Ratchathani is the Candle Parade Festival. The festival is held in the days of Asanha Puja, which commemorates the Lord Buddha’s first sermon and Wan Kao Pansa, which marks the beginning of the lent.

At Thung Si Mueang Park, over 150,000 people both resident and tourist gathered this year to admire the giant candle floats and parades.

The festival is known as the start of the lent period which is the preparation of the rainy season. The Thai Buddhists donate items for personal use like fuel and candles - nowadays light bulbs can do, too! - to the monks who will stay in recluse in the temple during the coming three rainy months.

In the past, the villagers just

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donated a simple candle, but later they took the next step and created a bigger, crafted candle. In recent years, the candles have been ever more attractively decorated but the technique remains the traditional wax carving.

The temple is the center of the community. The whole village including craftsmen, artists, monks and villagers gather at the temple preparing the candle piece by piece throughout the elegant wax carving floats. The candles have been carved about a couple of months before the procession.

Apart from the giant candle, the event is a showcase for Isaan music, costumes and dance. Each village has their individual historical heritage.

Some villages have their roots in Vietnam or Laos or Khmer cultures.

Therefore they have their unique and fascinating performance. When all sections are mixed together, it becomes an outstanding procession.

Tourism Authority of Thailand supports the Candle Festival to be the major event of Ubon Ratchathani.

Recently, this support has added an interesting event to the traditional Candle Parade Festival, which is The International Wax Sculpture Exhibition. This year, the exhibition August 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 39

displayed eight different wax artists representing eight countries - Japan, Nepal, Belgium, France, Ukraine, Latvia, Brazil, plus of course Thailand.

the handcraft candle, please contact Khun Chalida by mutita_candle@ hotmail or see the online-collections at www.mutitacandle.com.

Baan Khampun Exhibition

Wat Pah Nanachat

Two days a year during the annual Candle Festival, it is also possible to visit Baan Khampun, which is wellknown high-quality silk fabric factory in Uon Ratchathani The Baan Khampun house is a mixture of the Central-Thai and Isan styles designed by the owner, Mr. Meechai Taesujariya. He and his parentage are dedicated to pass on their knowledge and techniques of silk weaving to others in the province.

For two day every year, visitor may observe the antique silk production equipment, the private collection of antique silk pattern, and rare objects. The exhibition is accompanied by live-Thai classical music performances, presentation of local Thai desserts. Herbal drinks are available for free for visitors.

If anyone wants to explore more about classical silk fabric production, please call +66 (0) 4542 4122 or +66 (0) 4525 4830.

Wat Pah Nanachat or The International Forest Monastery is located about 15 km. from Ubon Ratchathani city using highway 226. The temple is surrounded by forest and features the peaceful place. It was established by Venerable Ajahn Chah to provide English-speaking people the opportunity to train and practice in the way the Buddha taught his monks in the forests.

Anyone who wishes to stay for period of time, should contact the Monastery one month in advance.

For more information, please visit www.watpahnanachat.org.

Other attractions If you missed this year’s Festival, there is no need to wait until July next year. Ubon Ratchathani has many other attractions that are worth visiting all year round. Next, please find a description of some,

The International Forest Monastery that are my personal favorites.

Pha Taem National Park Pha Taem National Park covers Khong Chiam district, Si Mueng Mai and Pho Sai. The most stunning topview of the endlessly Maekong River forming the borderline to Laos is in Pha Taem. Here, you also find some stunningly clear, prehistoric cave paintings which are 3,000-4,000 years old and reflect the ancient lifestyle of the people who once lived in the area.

The famous symbol is “Sao Chaliang” which is the look-alikemushroom-stone carved by wind and water for millions of years.

Pha Taem National Park is located 18 km. from Khong Chiam using Highway 2134, then 2112. Turn

right at Km. 8 and continue for another 5 km. to Pha Taem.

Mutita Aroma Candles The most famous product of Ubon Ratchathani is Mutita Candle. In 2000, Khun Chalida Poonsup in collaboration with group of candle designers in Det Udom district founded the magnificent designed aroma candle-Mutita Candle. The group has been supported by governmental organizations to export in worldwide market. The most demand market is in Europe, South Africa and U.A.E. The unique styles of candles feature realistic flowers and natural foliage creating the beautiful aroma candle. It can be burned but most of them are for show. Tourist is interested to visit the factory or buy

Handmade Mutita Aroma Candles

Baan Khampun

Important Contacts • Tourism Authority of Thailand: 1672, www.tourismthailand.org Ubon Ratchathani office: +66 (0) 4524 3770 • Thai Airways: www.thaiairways.com / Bangkok office: +66 (0) 2351 1111 / Ubon Ratchathani office: +66 (0) 4531 3340 to 2 • Ubon Ratchathani Bus Terminal: +66 (0) 4531 2773 40 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

Medium

Strawberries with Black Pepper and Balsamic Vinegar For most Scandinavians summertime means strawberries. Lots of strawberries. Au naturel with cream and sugar or as the main ingredients in cakes, pies and currant pudding.

Evil

S

Are you done?

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hen you have completed the above puzzles, please send your solution by fax to +66 2 943 7169 or scan and email to puzzles@ scandasia.com. We will make a lucky draw among the correct answers. Five lucky winners will receive a ScandAsia polo shirt.

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Deadline for submitting your solution is 15 September 2011 42 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2011

aid with all due respect, strawberries from Thailand can not compete with Scandinavian berries. In Asia, you have the pineapple, the mango, the…… But we got the strawberries.

Conditions like growing up in the cool nights and with many hours of daylight gives the Scandinavian strawberries an unbeatable intensity in both flavor and aroma.

But you should not give up on the Asian strawberries, they just need to be upgraded. That is easily done by adding black pepper and Balsamic vinegar.

Black pepper and balsamic vinegar will intensify the flavor of the strawberries and bring out their sweetness, and now the berries are great with both sweet and savory dishes.

Try them in a green salad with goat cheese, or serve them for dessert over ice cream or cake.

Ingredients: • 500 grams of ripe strawberries, rinsed, hulled, and sliced • 3 tablespoons sugar • 1 1/2 tablespoons good-quality balsamic vinegar • Freshly ground coarse black pepper Preparation: • Place the sliced berries in a medium non-reactive bowl (such as glass).

• Sprinkle the berries with the sugar and balsamic vinegar, and toss gently to coat. Allow the berries to macerate in the vinegar and sugar mixture for about 15 minutes.

• Add 4 to 5 grinds of coarse black pepper to the berries, and toss to coat.

Allow the flavors to blend about 5 minutes more before serving.

Enjoy!

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