ScandAsia Thailand - August 2012

AUG 2012

Thailand

With Open Arms ScandAsia.dk

ScandAsia.fi

ScandAsia.no

ScandAsia.se

Hotel Mermaid Bangkok

For our Guest - Just recently inaugurated by His Royal Highness Prince Henrik, The Prince Consort of Denmark, the Hotel Mermaid Bangkok stands tall as the new landmark of peaceful Sukhumvit Soi 29. Besides offering an elegantly relaxing ambiance to hotel guests, the Hotel Mermaid Bangkok is also home to well renowned Admiral’s Pub & Restaurant. This combination of warm hospitality and an amazingly diverse dining experience makes the Hotel Mermaid Bangkok truly exceptional. And why is that so? Because every room, every service provided, each delicious meal or refreshing drink enjoyed, is delivered with special consideration for each individual Guest – for You. The Hotel Mermaid Bangkok, located at Sukhumvit Soi 29, is a 8-minute walk to either Emporium Shopping Centre or Asoke BTS Sky train & MRT Subway Station, providing easy access to throughout Bangkok. The property is also an easy 8-minute walk to the Exchange & Interchange business office towers and Benjasiri Park, as well as to nearby entertainment areas of Nana and Soi Cowboy. It is a 10-minute drive to Queen Sirikit Convention Centre.

Suvarnabhumi Bangkok International Airport is a 1 hour drive away.

The hotel offers modern air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and LAN internet connectivity. The hotel is equipped with a swimming pool, 24-hour front desk and a sightseeing tour desk. All rooms are tastefully designed with artworks and discreetly coloured walls, rooms at Hotel Mermaid Bangkok come with a LCD cable TV, a minibar and a safety deposit box. All Suites have spacious en-suite bathrooms with bathtubs & showers and a private balcony. All other rooms have spacious bathrooms with rain showers. The hotel also operates the well known «Admiral’s Pub & Restaurant» which offers a variety of tasty cuisines including Thai, Asian, Scandinavian and International dishes, snacks and meals. Furthermore, guests can also enjoy meals and drinks on the open air Boat Deck restaurant. The hotel facilities also include one of the best Wine cellars in Bangkok.

Hotel Mermaid Bangkok Ltd., 6 Soi Sukhumvit 29, Sukhumvit Road, Kwaen Klongtoey Nua, Khet Wattana Bangkok 10110 Tel. 02 260 9026 l Fax. 02 260 9010 Email. welcome@hotelmermaidbangkok.com l www.hotelmermaidbangkok.com

Opinion

Witches

By Flemming Winther Nielsen

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

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 : 211 Soi Prasert Manukit 29 Prasert Manukit Road Chorakae Bua, Lad Prao 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 Assistant Editor: Wachiraporn Janrut wachiraporn@scandmedia.com Advertising : Finn Balslev finn@scandmedia.com Piyanan Kalikanon piyanan@scandmedia.com Nattapat Maesang nattapat@scandmedia.com Graphic Designer : Supphathada Numamnuay supphathada@scandmedia.com

he 23 of June fires are built on the hills in a country way up north in Europe. On this, the longest day of the year, dusk comes at 9 pm; it is then time to light the fires. The flames will moments later set fire to the image of an elderly woman, tied to a stake on top of the pyre.

These days the witch will not scream and curse the onlookers, since she is made of straw and dressed in scrap clothes.

But in the darker days of the country, thousands of women who dared to distance themselves from the norms of the majority were accused of witchcraft, tortured and killed.

In southern Europe, the inquisitors of the Catholic Church swept the countries accusing non conformists of heresy; in their prisons they tortured and killed in the most bestial ways – to spread fear and to discipline the population.

In the European culture there has always been a strong tendency towards rectification and discipline. There have always been scapegoats, from scientists to Jews and they have been accused of all evils. The powers of today will allow dissidence as long as it is regarded harmless, e.g. modern art, conservative gay sub culture, decadent haute couture or green movements, but will, with the assistance of the ‘silent majority’, try to marginalize those who try to set themselves free of mainstream norms and prejudices in order to master their lives their own way.

Erica Jong writes: “Most people are not free. Freedom in fact, frightens them. They follow patterns set by their parents, enforced by society, by their fear of ‘they say’ and ‘what will they think?’ and by a constant inner dialogue that weighs duty against desire and pronounces duty the winner”.

Of course also envy and hate are factors present. People of the majority often would like to follow the path of those who don’t care what their neighbours might think of them –but they don’t dare. It might therefore be a compensation to punish the ‘witches’ instead.

That’s why Lord Jesus once exclaimed: “Let the one who is clean, throw the first stone”.

O

ne of the most valuable and appreciated assets of Thai culture is the tolerance and the genuine acceptance of all things human. Nobody seems to like the role of being the judge of their neighbour.

It is no coincidence or only because of love that so many Europeans settle down in Thailand. They admit that they are also running away from the societal pressure of conformism and grayness in their home countries. It is no coincidence either, that for example the Norwegians, coming from one of the most socially rigid societies in Europe, have formed their ‘Norwegian federation on Esaan’. These many people are grateful towards the Thai’s, for not always being told by ‘those who knows better’, what to do and what to think.

Meanwhile those in power and those who know better on other peoples behalf, have started to copy the Western conformism. There is a campaign against smoking, there is a ban on alcohol ads, there are more surveillance cameras, also in places where there have been no crimes for the last 40 years. The newspapers and magazines are becoming more and more dull but politically correct.

Seen one by one these initiatives might be good and fair but seen together they limit the individual freedom; in the future there will be less and less space in Thailand for the singers and the dancers, the clowns, the fools and the poets – for those who prefer to be themselves. Thailand will loose its irresistible charm.

But maybe Thai’s will listen to Lord Buddha’s advice: “Believe nothing, no matter where you read it or who has said it, not even if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense”.

Distribution : Wanvisa Rattanaburi wanvisa@scandmedia.com Printing : Lake & Foundtain Printing Co., Ltd.

Daily news and features here: www.scandasia.com

Flemming Winther Nielsen is Senior Lecturer (retired) DSH. DK. M.Sc.soc. (Aalborg University). Guest Lecturer UTCC, University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, Bangkok. Free lance writer, Bangkok Post. Writer for Scandasia Magazine, Thailand. Member of the Board of Scandinavian Society Siam.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BY SCANDINAVIAN SOCIETY

CONTENTS 16

AUGUST 2012

8 Coming Events 10 ScandAsia News Brief 16 With Open Arms 18 Pole Dancing 20 How to Divorce in Thailand?

22 SEB Appoints New General Manager

24 Nang Boon Sri and Nai Rasmus Havmøller in Siam and Ebeltoft

Interview with Swedish priest Maria Eksmyr in Phuket By Dennis Krog

ScandAsia journalist took the pole dancing course and lived to tell

By Wachiraporn Janrut

18

Legal issues concerning divorce in Thailand

By Siriporn Denkesineelam at Siam Legal International

Interview with Fredrik Lager, General Manager at Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken (SEB) By Miklos Bolza

Historical article By Flemming Winther Nielsen

28 Vacation Assistance On Phuket for Swedes with Disability

New service in Phuket By Joakim Persson

30 Discover Your Head for Heights 32 TWO CHEFS Dynasty on Phuket 34 Travel Tips 42 Sudoku & Swedish Pancakes

Zipline Adventure By Kirsty Turner

24 32

Interview with Billy Agren, Founder and Partner of TWO CHEFS Bakery & Bistro By Dennis Krog

Inspiration for discovering Thailand

By Piyanan Kalikanon and Nattapat Meesang

Swedish Pancakes Recipe By Gregers Moller

Coming Events DanCham Monthly Networking Sponsored by Maersk Line (Thailand) Ltd. Date: Wednesday 15 August 2012 From 6.30 – 8.30pm Location: Grand Millennium Sukhumvit Danish Chamber of Commerce Thailand is organizing its regular networking event next on August 15 at Grand Millennium Sukhumvit Bangkok on Sukhumvit 21 Road in Asoke. Members and non-members can enjoy themselves mingling with other Danes in Bangkok, sharing business and summertime experience at the event. The event is sponsored by Maersk Line (Thailand) Ltd.

Made in Thailand 2012 Trade Days: August 15-17 at 10.00am – 6.00pm Public Days: August 18-19 at 10.00am – 9.00pm Location: Impact Muang Thong Thaini, Hall 5-8 Organized by Department of Export Promotion, Made in Thailand 2012 event will be held on August 15 -19.

According to the organizer, it is the largest exhibition on quality Thai products that made by Thai people. Many products in various categories such as food & beverage, fashion, health & beauty, home & living, electric & electronics, and auto services & parts will be exhibited.

For more information, contact 02 507 8409 or 02 507 8380-4 www.madeinthailandfair.com

An Evening Around Dr. Einar Ammundsen Date: Sunday 26 August 2012 – 7.30pm Location: The Admirals Pub & Restaurant, Sukhumvit Soi 29 Scandinavian Society Siam is showing a DR-TV’s film featuring Dr. EinarAmmundsen’s life after his 50 years in Thailand. The film was made just before he left Thailand in 1996.

Kristian Bø will give a small welcome speech together withFlemmingWinther Nielsen and Claus Gundersen, Custodians More veteran members, who knew Ammundsen back then. Admission Fee is THB 750 Net per person (including food and beverages). Binding reservations must be made not later than 5th August 2012 to Flemming Winther Nielsen - flemming_winther@hotmail.com - 0837 823 579 or Claus Weber Gundersen - clausgundersen@gmail.com.

CSR and Business in Myanmar Date: Tuesday 28 August – Friday 31 August 2012 Location: Bangkok, Burma/Myanmar, Naypyidaw

8 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

The Royal Danish Embassy will host a four-day event focusing on CSR and business in Myanmar. General CSR – This is a Free of charge service. It will cover CSR in general and therefore be of interest for all businesses. This will take place in Bangkok, and will be presented by the Foreign Ministry’s special CSR-adviser.

Phase One: CSR in Myanmar – Taking place in Bangkok, this seminar will cover the challenges regarding CSR in Myanmar. Issues as labour and legal, political briefing among others will be discussed.

Phase Two: Business in Myanmar – This part will take place in Yangon, Burma/Myanmar. It will be a fact finding tour, where businesses will get the opportunity to network and arrange one-onone meetings with Burmese business people.

Phase Three: Government contacts – The last day will take place in the capital Naypyidaw. Depending on the needs of the participating companies, the Embassy will set up meetings with relevant ministries, such as Ministry of Industry and Ministry of Planning and Investment. The presentations, insights and speeches will be given by experts and individuals who are well informed about the Burmese business environment.

For further information, please visit www.scandasia.com in the upcoming event section.

ScandAsia News Brief

Norwegian Toothbrushes to Clean Thai Teeth

J

ordan, the Norwegian toothbrush maker, plans to double its business in the Thai market over the next 3-5 years through a partnership with Moong Pattana International Plc. Jordan officially signed a three-year deal appointing Moong Pattana as the distributor of Jordan’s oral-care products in Thailand. Moong Pattana is taking over from DKSH, which was the company’s previous distributor, writes Bangkok Post.

Hew Thye Chan, Jordan’s general manager for Asia-Pacific, called 2012 a special year for the firm.

“Not only are we celebrating our 175th anniversary, but we will also put our mark on Thailand by teaming with Moong Pattana,” said Hew Thye Chan.

Jordan was founded in Norway in 1837, selling a range of products for oral care, painting and household cleaning. Oral care is its sole business in Asia-Pacific, and sales in the region contribute 20 percent of global turnover.

Thailand is a top-five market for Jordan in Asia-Pacific along with South Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam.

“We expect Jordan Thailand to climb to the top-three list in the next 3-5 years,” said Mr Chan.

Thailand Aims to Enter the Nordic Market

I

n response to a positive report from the Office of Commercial Affairs in Europe, Ministry of Commerce Thailand plans to encourage Thai businesses to penetrate the Nordic market. It also looks for Thai business partners to work together on Energy Development, (Information Communications Technology) ITC and Environmental Technology.

Mr. PoomSarapon, Deputy Minister of Commerce, reveals that he received a report that the Nordic countries have not been much affected by the world economic crisis and still projected considerably high economic growth rate. The Nordic countries also have plans to expand investments in Thailand.

The market sectors that the Nordic countries are interested in investing in Thailand are Energy, pharmaceutical and consumer products.

Since the Nordic countries ranked among the top five countries in the global innovative index this year, Thailand will benefit from applying their innovations and technologies to its production system and environmental resources management, thus helping the kingdom pursue a sustainable economy.

At the moment there are various products from Thailand in the Nordic market such as food products of CP Group, consumer products, rice and spa products. Since the Nordic countries plan to expand its investments in Thailand, Thai business people can then learn from them to enhance business capacity in order to export more to Europe and other markets worldwide.

Intern at Swecham

J

iraya Chanchon, 23, is currently an intern attached to the Thai-Swedish Chamber of Commerce.

She arrived in Thailand in the beginning of June this year and started her internship at the chamber on 25 June. She will be attached there for six months until Christmas this year.

Jiraya is a student at the Uppsala University in Uppsala Sweden. Currently in her third semester of her Masters Degree in Strategic Marketing and Management, she would be completing her studies mid-2013.

Having moved from Petchaboon, Thailand to Sweden when she was 14 years old, Jiraya is not completely unaware of the Thai culture and language. On top of that, she has also made several vacation trips back within the last 11 years.

She explained that one of the main reasons that drove her to choose Thailand for her industrial attachment was the fact that she is able to converse in Thai, English and Swedish. She felt that her multilingualism would certainly come in handy with working with the chamber.

Jiraya said it has been interesting since starting work as there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people at social and networking events.

“At first I didn’t think there were many Swedish people in Thailand, but when I go for these networking events, there seem to be much more than I expected,” she said.

10 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

Ombudsman Drafting New Land Law T

hailand’s Ombudsman was by the end of June reportedly drafting a law to protect Thai lands from illegal foreign nominee ownership. Ombudsman Siracha Charoenpanij said the new law would also punish law firms and consultants and others for offering advice to foreigners on how to hold Thai property.

The new law will reward anyone providing information about foreigners owning land through nominees with 20% of the market price of that piece of land after the plot is sold, he told reporters. The new law would also deport foreigners found guilty of holding land plots in Thailand illegally.

He will submit the draft to parliament this year, and Mr Siracha thinks there is backing for the bill.

Commenting on the news and the situation in general, Jens Brochner Nielsen, CEO of D2 Real Estate Company said he expects the inflow of foreign money to purchase small properties in Thailand to dwindle next year and not pick up for another three to four years.

“I think we will see an outflow of foreign currency. Foreigners who have bought a single house through a company or whatever are now trying to sell it and take the money out of the country. At the end of the day this will influence the Thai real estate market.”

The word “Ombudsman” is indigenous Danish, Norwegian and Swedish rooted in the Old Norse word umboðsmaðr, essentially meaning “representative”. In its most frequent modern usage, an ombudsman is an official, appointed by the government or by parliament with a significant degree of independence, who is charged with representing the interests of the public by investigating and addressing complaints reported by individuals.

In Thailand, the institution was established in 1999 and also given the role to to follow up and provide recommendations in compliance with the Constitution as well as matter for consideration in support of Constitutional amendment.

B a g s væ r d k o s t s k o l e gymnasium tid til talent

Bagsværd kostskole & gymnasium (Bk) er en udviklingsorienteret og traditionsrig skole grundlagt i 1908. elever, der vælger en uddannelse hos os, siger ja til fællesskab, faglighed, seriøsitet og individuel talentudvikling. det vi på Bagsværd kostskole & gymnasium kalder for: tid til talent. vi tilbyder: • • • • • • •

dansk uddannelse med et internationalt præg grundskole, 10. kl., studentereksamen (stX) danmarks første femårig Biotek-uddannelse 8.kl.-3.g sport- og talentklasse fra 7. kl. mulighed for morgentræning tirsdage og torsdage aktiv brug af it og internet i undervisningen enkeltværelser til kostelever, lektiehjælp hver dag

scan Qr koden og besøg vores hjemmeside www.bagkost.dk aldershvilevej 138 • dk-2880 • Bagsværd • telefon: +45 44980065 • e-mail: bk@bagkost.dk

August 2012 • ScandAsia.Thailand 11

ScandAsia News Brief

New Flood-Free Facility for BMC

B

angkok Mould Consultant (BMC) held a soft opening ceremony at its new facility in Bangbon on 11 July 2012. Officially opening the new facility together with the company’s Managing Director Alex Petersen was Danish Ambassador Mikael Hemniti Winther.

After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Ambassador gave a short speech about BMC’s new premises and expressed that he hoped it will be safe from the floods as they wish it to be.

Celebrating the opening together with Alex and his wife Sukanya, were some of their Thai customers, friends and family.

After all the formalities were over, Alex took the guests on a tour where he showed samples of moulds BMC produces and explained in detail how it is used by different equipment in everyday life.

Alex spoke to ScandAsia prior to the opening ceremony about the previous facility in Samut Sakhon and the idea to shift. He said it struck as soon as the floods hit Bangkok late last year.

Thai Ambassador Concerned about Thai Workers Going to Sweden

A

s berry picking season in Sweden began, many Thai workers left Thailand to go to Sweden with high hopes of making a fortune. H.E. Mr. Thanarat Thanaputti, Ambassador of Thailand to Sweden, has expressed concern about Thai workers going to Sweden because the weather this year is colder than previous years and might affect the yield of fruit.

“Thai workers should also be careful with the commission they deal with the recruiting agency as the yield of fruit this year might be less than previous years due to bad weather conditions in

Sweden,” said the Ambassador.

High commission rates and unreasonable amount of money that Thai workers have to pay to agencies before getting to work in Sweden is still a major problem.

“We want to take care of all Thai workers who come here to work,” said the Ambassador.

Lead by Mr. Surapon Petchwa, the officers at Thai consulate in Sweden recently visited one of the biggest berry farms in Umea, Sweden which is owned

by Mr. Dennis Westerlund, who showed the officers around the farm and the residential area for Thai workers.

Appointments of New Thai Ambassadors to Denmark and Sweden

O

n 17 July 2012, Deputy Government Spokesperson AnusornIamsa-ad announced the results of a recent cabinet meeting regarding the appointments of senior government authorities in Ministry of Foreign Affairs. For Scandinavian countries, there are two appointments of new Thai Ambassadors to Denmark and Sweden.

The announcement accounted for a total of 22 posts. Three of which were appointments of Ambassador to Foreign Affairs Committee and 13 of which were appointments of new Thai Am-

12 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

bassadors to foreign countries.

Director - General of Department of International Economics Ms. Somkid Kidchob is appointed as the new Thai Ambassador to Denmark where she’ll be based in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Thai Ambassador to the UAE (United Arab Emirates) H.E. Mr. Somchai Charanasomboon is appointed as the new Thai Ambassador to Sweden where he’ll be based in Stockholm, Sweden.

All new appointments will be effective on 1 October 2012.

Generous Norwegians Send Thai Kids to Norwegian Football Tournament

I

n Pattaya a Norwegian group, calling themselves “The Friendly Group”, has raised money to send a girls and a boys football team from the local orphanage, Baan Jing Jai, to participate in the Norway Cup football tournament, which is played every summer in Oslo The two Norwegians Morten Anderson and Thor Andersen started raising the money in January. The projeckt has been a huge success and gotten support from a big part of the local Norwegian community in Pattaya.

Norwegians companies such as Rambol and Moeller Eash have donated money to the project, which also saw an anonymous Norwegian donate NOK 50.000.

Besides the donations a minigolf tournament has been played on Sundays from which the tournament fees were donated to the cause.

In total 1.200.000 baht was raises, which is enough to see the 20 kids going to Oslo.

Norway Cup is providing the Thai – Norwegian delegation with accommodation and food during the stay in Norway.

Find one Private Banking advisor, then make sure he knows many specialists Wealth management today involves much more than selecting the best stocks and bonds. At Nordea Private Banking, we offer you an experienced personal advisor and a comprehensive overview of your wealth based on thorough research and rigorous analysis. One private banker, many specialists – making it possible.

Contact Nordea Singapore on +65 6317 6522, or e-mail eric.pedersen@nordea.com

Eric Pedersen, Private Banker

Nordea Bank S.A, Nordea Bank Finland Plc and Nordea Bank AB (publ) are part of the leading financial services group in the Nordic and Baltic Sea regions. Being the leading Nordic pan-European banking entity in Luxembourg, Nordea Bank S.A. focuses on international Wealth Management, Fund Distribution and Fund Management services. Our 400 employees serve a wide spectrum of international clients in more than 125 countries. Some products and services mentioned may, due to local regulations, not be available to individuals resident in certain countries. Published by Nordea Bank Finland Plc, Singapore Branch, 3 Anson Rd #22-01, Springleaf Tower, Singapore 079909.

AD_Ericpedersen_192x135_eng.indd 1

8/29/11 1:57 PM August 2012 • ScandAsia.Thailand 13

ScandAsia News Brief

ScandAsia and S Thai Property Guide in Cooperation

candAsia and Thai Property Guide (TPG) - a book published

by Thai-Swedish Chamber of Commerce - will join forces to approach Scandinavians in Singapore and China to promote second home and residential property investment in Thailand. The Thai Property Guide is the only project of its kind with official support and operated by a Chamber of Commerce in Thailand.

Scandinavians, in particular the ever-increasing number of Scandinavians living and working in China and Singapore, are very potential investors in the Thai real estate market where a large number of Swedes, Norwegians and Danes have already bought a home.

Executive Director Peter Björk of the Thai-Swedish Chamber of Commerce sees a clear trend of Scandinavians settling down permanently in Asia because of their current businesses, the many opportunities and the strong growth here.

“Many Scandinavian corporate employees have been in Asia a long time and prefer to invest here rather than back in Scandinavia.

Also, they prefer the warm and friendly people in a country such as Thailand with its world-renowned hospitality. Here they can enjoy higher quality of life than back home and at a reasonable cost,” he added.

Gregers Moller, publisher of ScandAsia, sees teaming up with the initiative of the Thai-Swedish Chamber as an obvious partnership.

“Our ScandAsia Singapore and ScandAsia China editions combined with our weekly newsletter reaches the large majority of Scandinavians in these countries,” he says.

By the end of this year a promotional events will be held in Singapore as well as in Shanghai and Beijing to present the new edition of the Thai Property Guide, which is expected launched by then.

Sometimes it is all about you.

Applying for a place at UWC South East Asia is one of those times.

UWCSEA in Singapore enrols students from Kindergarten to Grade 12, with boarding available in Grades 7 to 12. We are looking for families who are as committed to our mission and values as we are. For students who will embrace the opportunities provided by our learning programme.

No never-ending wait list. No concerns about date of application.

Apply online now for entry in August 2013. Or contact admissions at admissions@uwcsea.edu.sg or +65 6775 5344. www.uwcsea.edu.sg UWCSEA Dover is registered by the CPE CPE Registration No. 197000825H Registration Period 18 July 2011–17 July 2017 UWCSEA East is registered by the CPE CPE Registration No. 200801795N Registration Period 10 March 2010–9 March 2017

14 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

058ADV-1112

New Volvo Assembly Building Inauguration

S

wedish Ambassador to Thailand H.E. Mr. Klas Molin congratulated Volvo on the official inauguration of its new Volvo assembly building at the Thai-Swedish Assembly Co.,Ltd. Managing Director of Thai-Swedish Assembly Bo Palmqvist took Mr. Molin - together with other guests of honour who attended the event - on a brief tour where they saw new impressive Robotic Bodies in the assembly line.

Thai Brand ‘Kitchen Joy’ is No. 1 Asian Ready Meal in Scandinavia

C

haroen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CPF) aims to expand its ready meal products branded “Kitchen Joy” in Scandinavian market, where it plans to enter Norway in the last quarter of this year. Recently the company has sponsored the famous Danish reality show “Tempted season 2” aiming to increase the brand awareness among young professionals in Denmark, and to increase revenue by 40-50%.

Mr. Christian Juhl, Director at CPF Denmark, revealed that ‘Kitchen Joy’ brand has penetrated Finland, Denmark and Sweden last year.

According to Mr. Juhl, the brand was well received by Scandinavian market where it has a market share of 94% in Finland, 70% in Denmark and 14% in Sweden.

Since Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for Scandinavians, many of them are familiar with Thai food, thus making Kitchen Joy number 1 Asian Ready meal in Scandinavia.

The company believes that the market expansion is feasible due to its extensive products menu and increase in channels of distribution. The company expects the sales revenue of ‘Kitchen Joy’ to increase to 2,500 million baht by 2015.

August 2012 • ScandAsia.Thailand 15

With Open Arm

Maria Eksmyr has been the Swedish Priest in Phuket since September last year. The job is in some ways different from what she experienced back in Sweden, but the task on the island with the many temptations is a challenge that she is taking on with the help of her faith and her husband.

By Dennis Krog

M

aria Eksmyr and Ingvar Olofsson got married in September 2011, but the same month the couple also said ‘I do’, when asked if they wanted to move to Phuket, so a traditional honeymoon was not possible. Maria was to take over as the minister for the Church of Sweden in the southern part of Thailand, while Ingvar - a carpenter by profession - was to work as the assistant.

“It has been a dream for me for a long time to work abroad. I think it’s in my blood since I lived abroad as a child because of the work of my father. I guess you can say that I have inherited somewhat of a vagabond gene,” laughs Maria Eksmyr when explaining why Phuket was a move she wanted to make.

Maria finished her education as a minister back in 1993 and she immediately started working for the church in Lund. In 1995 she moved on to work in Stockholm and she has also worked as a minister in the diocese of Strängnäs before moving to Phuket.

In Sweden Maria Eksmyr used to meet people wherever they

16 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

were in the community, often driving around on her bike, talking to people she met, and of course she has welcomed people to the church. The latter will not be possible in Phuket since the Church of Sweden in the Island doesn’t have an actual church building. Instead she will travel around in the southern region as well as welcome people into her and Ingvar’s home.

A mobile church The Church of Sweden in Phuket covers the region of Phuket and the islands around Phuket, such as Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, which means that besides welcoming people into their Kata home every second Wednesday, Maria performs sermons around the islands, where especially Koh Lanta has a large population of Swedes.

“I think it is fantastic that we are a mobile church, because the tourists here - and even the Swedes who live here - are mobile. Therefore it is good that we are mobile as well and we meet people where they are,” says Maria The fact that the Church of

Sweden in Phuket is a very outgoing church also makes for some surprises in the community, but the surprise of meeting a Swedish minister while you are enjoying your holiday meal in a Phuket restaurant is often a shocker that makes for good conversation.

“It’s a fantastic way of breaking down barriers and most of the time we get a very positive response: ’Wow, the Swedish Church is here as well’ people often say, and then we are already communicating,” says Maria.

Although Maria Eksmyr admits missing giving sermons on Sundays, now more or less only getting the opportunity around Christmas, Easter and during visits to Koh Lanta, Maria tries to find other ways to get people to meet each other in Phuket, which she also did shortly after arriving in Phuket as she held a gathering in her private home for the Scandinavians on the island, a get-together that also saw the participation of the Swedish Ambassador Klas Molin.

“We believe that the interaction between people is important, and here in Phuket we want

ms

to bring people together too. The meeting with the ambassador and the Phuket society was really successful, not just looking at it from the church’s point of view, but also bringing people together who can help each other in their professional life here,” says Maria, who keeps emphasising the meetings between people as very important, especially in Phuket, where it’s not all sunshine and happy days.

Some people are very lonely For many people, Phuket is seen as perfect place to settle down after a life time of hard work back in Scandinavia. For others, Phuket offers an opportunity to start up a business, but no matter what the reason is for coming to Phuket it doesn’t always work out the way things were planned.

“There are a lot of people who actually end up getting very lonely here. They come out here to retire, but maybe it’s tough for them finding new friends, and then you are sitting here alone. That can really make you lonely,” says Maria Eksmyr, who calls it quite a challenge

facing the two opposites - extreme happiness and extreme loneliness which she sees in Phuket.

“The loneliness becomes so evident for people out here. They have friends and family in Sweden, but still some won’t take the defeat it is to pack up and go home – they choose the loneliness instead,” says Maria.

For some people the loneliness can lead to visits in the colourful Phuket nightlife, but even here the Church of Sweden and Maria are present, showing an alternative to the quick fix of happiness.

I don’t judge people Of course Maria is aware of the vibrant nightlife in Phuket, where alcohol and prostitution are not far away for both tourists and residents, not a place you would normally see a minister, but that doesn’t keep Maria away.

“Well, maybe especially in this environment it is important for me to come and show an alternative.

I want to show that there is an alternative to what you are doing to yourself and what you are doing towards others,” says Maria.

When Maria is meeting people she emphasises that she never judges them, knowing that nobody is perfect.

“Every human being makes mistakes, you and me included, but the task is to see the person behind the mistakes and then offer an alternative to that lifestyle,” says Maria.

Another big problem in Phuket is the massive intake of alcohol, which too often - especially this year - has left Swedes seriously injured and even killed, another area of attention for Maria and her husband.

“We will start the ‘bi water’ campaign by giving out free water in bars and trying to encourage people not to drink too much alcohol. Especially, we want to reach those people who would never drink and drive in Sweden, but for some reason do it here,” says Maria, while again addressing her point of meeting people as being important to her, mostly having the role as a listener, welcoming people when they come to her with a problem or just need someone to talk to.

“Hi, what can I do for you?” Maria will greet you.

I think it is fantastic that we are a mobile church, because the tourists here - and even the Swedes who live here - are mobile.

Therefore it is good that we are mobile as well and we meet people where they are.

August 2012 • ScandAsia.Thailand 17

Pole Danci On top of various health and fitness benefits, there are reasons that a typical Thai girl from a conservative background like me decided to learn Pole Dance.

By Wachiraporn Janrut

T

he song Angels from Within Temptation played loud in the background and I walked slowly around the pole. I moved along the symphonic rock introduction, and when the musical beat got faster I spun myself around the pole for the first time. The adrenaline rush shot right through my whole body. And I told myself, ‘this is awesome’.

It’s not an exaggeration to say that most people relate Pole Dancing to the act performed almost every night by girls in Bangkok’s red light districts. I personally have witnessed a few good pole dance shows, and I secretly admired the

moves when I took tourists for a mind-blowing experience in one of Bangkok’s alternative entertainment scenes. Regardless of how inappropriate it might sound, I found a few of them stirring and I enjoyed watching the girls performing.

But pole dancing isn’t just about titillation. It’s also a form of performance art which combines dance and gymnastics. It has evolved from being an erotic dance to be a form of acrobatics and stage performance, and today it has become an increasingly popular form of fitness practiced in gyms and dance studios internationally. A wide range of amateur and professional competitions are held in many countries around the world today.

Despite the fact that it is a form of dance workout that aims to keep your muscles toned and fit, pole dance is beautiful and erotic. Many women around the world like it because it’s fun, great for fitness, and is a great confidence booster…So why would I not be interested in joining the Pole Dance Class?

Spin the Pole

For more information and class schedule, contact rumPUREE World Dance Studio 5th Floor, Amarin Plaza Building, BTS – Chidlom Tel. 081 430 6684, 081 439 0200 www.rumpuree.com 18 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

Only a few dance studios in Bangkok offer pole dance classes. One of the leading dance studios with the class on offer is rumPUREE World Dance Studio. Apart from its good reputation, the school is conveniently located on the 5th floor of Amarin Plaza which is connected with the sky walk from Chidlom BTS station.

I called the school to ask about the pole dance classes for beginners.

To be honest, I was a little worried about my fitness level and whether I’d end up breaking my neck in the first class. After all, I’m just an average lady who hasn’t actively engaged in any kinds of sports for the past 2 years. Well, I was suggested to join the introduction class on a Thursday evening with teacher Maria.

All of the students are suggested to wear shorts or minimum clothes for safety reasons. Since many dance moves involve bare skin touching the pole, wearing long pants can only make it difficult to perform and can even lead to injury.

After almost half an hour of stretching and warming up, we started walking around the pole. We learned how to move and point

ing our toes when walking. Then we learned to turn and spin the pole.

All dance moves are more difficult than what I expected.

Beyond the erotic moves to perform, pole dance is clearly an exercise that requires strength and a lot of practice to be good.

“Relax. Don’t worry if you don’t get it the first time. You have to find a momentum and let go,” Teacher Maria said as I was about to land flat on my bum. That was obviously not my classiest move.

After some practice, the song Angels was played and we started by walking slowly around the pole, moving our legs up and down, turning and sliding on the pole. As the music got more upbeat, I spun around the pole for the first time. It was an amazing feeling once I could do it.

Teacher Maria was calm and supportive. I couldn’t help locking my eyes on her when she danced as she made it look so pretty. I never thought of pole dance this way before but after watching Teacher Maria’s moves with her high heels on, I can just see it as sensually elegant and inspiring.

The following classes got even more interesting. The basic move of Pole Dance involves spins, climbs, and body inversions.

I like Teacher Maria’s choice of music. The second class she played “The Bleeding” by Five Finger Death Punch, which is a rock song with a powerful introduction which creates an electric atmosphere to the performance. Though I didn’t do particularly well on climbing the pole, I enjoyed the whole experience. It’s certainly a challenging exercise.

“The strength will come. I was the last one in my class to reach the ceiling. If I can do it you can do it too,” said teacher Maria.

After the class, teacher Maria told me that there is a world champion pole dancer who started with absolutely no experience but became the world’s best in just 6 years.

“Just don’t give up,” she added.

in the chorus, drama, musical theater, as well as illustration, design, and creative writing. In her second year of studying Communication Arts in university, she decided to learn Bellydance as she’s interested in Middle Eastern culture. Teacher Maria joined her first class at rumPUREE in late 2006 where she soon became more involved with shows and performances.

Because of her passion and talent, Teacher Maria is now part of rumPUREE faculty teaching Bellydance and Pole Dance. She is also an active member of RaksrumPUREE and rumPUREE Tribal, the premiere Bellydance Company in Thailand dedicated to the Middle Eastern, American Tribal and Tribal Fusion art of dance.

rumPUREE World Dance Studio Established in 2006 by dance professionals who have extensive expe-

rience from New York, rumPUREE is well recognized as one of the best dance studios in Bangkok with various classes in world dances on offer including Ballet, Contemporary Dance, Modern Jazz, Afro-Caribbean, Bellydance, Flamenco, Thai Dance, New York Salsa, Argentine Tango, Swing Dance, Hip Hop, Music Video Dance, Striptease, House, Jazzercise, Zumba, Body Improvement and Pole Dance.

Among the most popular classes here are Bellydance and Pole Dance, according to rumPUREE owner Khun Ple. “Pole Dance is considered a sport. It’s beautiful and challenging.

Every time you push your body to its limits you find you can achieve more. It’s popular because it makes you strong. Many girls come to this class because they want to get firm and fit,” said Khun Ple. “The more you practice, the moves you do will show your

strength more than your sexiness.

However, if you want to learn sexy dance, you should try Striptease,” she said.

Striptease The striptease class is considerably more relaxing as it doesn’t require as much of your strength as the Pole Dance class. Students learn to express themselves sensually with confidence. I was given a shirt and learned to walk slowly, moving my hips as I walked along to soft and easy-listening music. Then I learned to take my shirt off slowly and sensually along with the rhythm of music. Though I personally find the Pole Dance class more exciting, the Striptease class is certainly more practical for anyone who wants to learn new tricks to tease their lovers at home.

About Teacher Maria Teacher Maria spent the majority of her academic years focusing on art-related subjects including seven years of playing the flute and singing

Teacher Maria August 2012 • ScandAsia.Thailand 19

How to Divorce in Thailand?

A contested divorce involves filing a divorce pleading to the Court. In this case, the plaintiff is required to prove one of thirteen grounds, including one year abandonment, three years separation, grave misconduct, lack of support, adultery, etc.

However, in order to be eligible to file for divorce, the foreign spouse must not be the one at fault.

L

ove has no culture, boundaries, religion, or race. This saying is quite true in Thailand, the Land of Smiles. Each year, there are numbers of foreigners, either residing in Thailand or living overseas, who are marrying Thai nationals.

Unfortunately, when a marriage between a foreigner and a Thai spouse fails and has to be dissolved in Thailand, it is quite difficult for the foreign spouse to pursue the divorce in Thailand on his or her own since the Thai divorce proceedings are quite unique and differ from most countries. Therefore, it would benefit a foreigner who is married to a Thai national or is planning on marrying a Thai national to learn how Thai law governs the issues relating to divorce procedures, child custody, and division of marital property, in case that they decide to divorce in Thailand.

According to Thai family law,

there are two types of divorce available in Thailand; specifically, an uncontested divorce and a contested divorce. To find out what type of divorce is suitable in a certain case, the key would be whether child custody and division of marital property is in dispute.

In regards to an uncontested divorce, this type of divorce is suitable for spouses who mutually agree on the terms of the divorce, and their marriage had been registered in Thailand or with a Thai embassy or consulate located outside Thailand.

In addition, this type of divorce is applicable only if the issues regarding the divorce, child custody, and marital property can be settled amicably between them. To confirm agreement between the spouses, it is strongly recommended that both spouses should enter into a divorce agreement, which sets forth the agreed terms. In the interests of the foreign spouse, the agreement

20 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

should be drafted in both Thai and English. The divorce agreement must be executed by both parties in the presence of two competent witnesses.

However, once the agreement has been completely executed, a representative or a lawyer is not allowed to perform the divorce registration on the behalf of the parties on the divorce registration date. Both parties are required to appear in person at the local district office. However, in addition to presenting a marriage certificate, the foreign spouse might be required to present a legalized passport prior to registering the divorce. More importantly, the executed divorce agreement in both languages must be registered and attached with the divorce certificate; otherwise, the agreement will not be enforceable.

A contested divorce is applicable when the parties do not agree as to the terms of the divorce, child cus-

tody, or division of marital property.

This type of divorce involves filing a divorce pleading to the Court, and the plaintiff is required to prove one of thirteen grounds, including one year abandonment, three years separation, grave misconduct, lack of support, adultery, etc. However, in order to be eligible to file for divorce, the foreign spouse must not be the one at fault.

Once one of aforementioned grounds is met, the foreign spouse must lodge the complaint to the Court in the locality where the Thai spouse has been registered in his or her family registration book (Tha Bien Ban). In case the foreign spouse is not residing in Thailand when filing for divorce, a Thai lawyer can be granted a Power of Attorney to file the pleading and attend the court hearings on his or her behalf.

However, if the divorce involves a minor child, the foreign spouse is required to travel to Thailand to be

About The Author:

Siriporn Denkesineelam works as Thai Attorney-at- Law for Siam Legal International. She is based in the Bangkok office and specializes in foreign divorce, marriage in Thailand, divorce in Thailand and other issues relating to family law.

Disclaimer:

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, it is not intended to provide legal advice as individual situations will differ and should be discussed with an expert and/ or lawyer. For specific technical or legal advice on the information provided and related topics, please contact the author.

Profile of Siam Legal International:

interviewed by the Juvenile center and to attend any hearings in order to testify in support of his or her claims.

Regarding the contested divorce procedure, after the divorce pleading has been filed to the Court, a summons will be served to the Thai national and he or she must then file a response to the divorce complaint within a certain period of time. If the Thai spouse files the response within the designated time, a mediation hearing will first be held, in which both parties will be able to settle all of the issues through the assistance of mediation judges.

Should the parties be able to reach a settlement, they are then required to sign a compromise agreement which sets forth the terms agreed by them. A final judgment based on the compromise agreement will be rendered after 30 days from the date of signing the compromise agreement.

Nevertheless, if the parties are unable to reach a settlement, the case will proceed to a trial, in which both parties will have to present witnesses and evidence to support their claims to the satisfaction of the Court. Furthermore, in case that the Thai spouse does not file a response, the Court will grant a default judgment or decide the case based on the evidence presented by the foreign spouse. After 30 days from the completion of the trial, the final judgment will be rendered, and to finalize the divorce procedure under Thai law, either party has to present the final judgment to any local district for divorce registration. Finally, in order for a foreign party to report the Thai divorce judgment and certificate in his or her home country, it is advisable that the court judgment and divorce certificate be translated into English and legalized by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Siam Legal International Co., Ltd. is one of Thailand´s premier fullservice law firms with its headquarters in Bangkok to provide Thailand legal services by our licensed Thailand lawyer, attorneys and solicitors. We are especially proud of our partners’ vast experience in Thailand legal matters, international law and law enforcement.

Our licensed Thai lawyers have valuable knowledge in dealing with government agencies in Thailand, and this experience is of great importance when dealing with Thai legal cases and investigative service.

Our vast network of law offices in Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Samui and Hua Hin offers our clients ease of ability to communicate with our licensed Thai lawyers and qualified foreign attorneys and solicitors. If you need a lawyer in Thailand we invite you to visit one of our many law offices in Thailand for a consultation for any of your legal needs.

Our law firm specializes in Real Estate transactions (Thailand property purchase by including leasehold, condominium, villas, project development, construction law & licensing), Immigration (Thai Visas & Immigration, Thai Citizenship, Permanent Residence, and Thai Business, Marriage and Retirement Visa applications), Family Matters (Divorce, Child Custody, Child Support, Legitimization, and Marital Property) , Litigation Services (Civil, Commercial and Criminal), Process Service of Court Papers and Investigation Services (Individual and Corporate).

Location of Siam Legal International: 23rd Floor, Interchange Building, 399 Sukhumvit Road, North Klongtoey, Bangkok, 10110 Thailand Tel: +66 2 2598100 Fax: +66 2 2598025 www.siam-legal.com

August 2012 • ScandAsia.Thailand 21

SEB Appoints New The new General Manager of Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken’s Singapore branch for Private Banking is one of the bank’s foremost experts in ‘Wealth Structuring’, which is a wider term than wealth management - taking into account taxation factors for the clients when advising on how to manage their private funds.

By Miklos Bolza Cover photo by Terrence Lim

I

n an exciting move, the Swedish Private Banking executive Fredrik Lager has been appointed General Manager of Private Banking & Wealth Management at the Singaporean branch of Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken S.A. (SEB).

Mr. Lager brings to his new position especially his expertise in wealth structuring.

“Wealth structuring is a technical term for private and corporate tax structuring, emigration and repatriation, cross-border issues, succession planning, etc.,” Mr. Lager said.

“Basically, it encompasses everything that has to do with tax planning.”

Since 2006, Mr. Lager has helped SEB offer this service within Europe, and he is now keen to provide the same high level of service to clients in the Asia Pacific Region.

“If you want to compete in the higher segments of international private banking today, it’s not just about portfolio management. It’s also about being positioned correctly when it comes to holding companies, strategic exits and cross-border planning.”

In a recent interview, Mr. Lager shared with ScandAsia his career path so far and his goals for the new position.

Global Beginnings Mr. Lager is certainly no stranger to the international scene. Born in Gothenburg, Sweden, he and his family followed his father, a shipmaster, to Saudi Arabia and to the US when he was young. He returned to Sweden to further his studies, eventually graduating from the University of Stockholm with a Masters degree in shipping law. After this, he moved to London where he completed another Masters, this time in International Trade and Transportation after which he took a job as a lawyer for a City law firm.

In 1999, he was approached by the senior partner of what is now McGuireWoods LLP, Mr. Anders Grundberg, who was interested in hiring a new lawyer to cater for the growing number of Nordic clients moving or setting up businesses in the UK. As a Swedish lawyer work-

22 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

If you want to compete in the higher segments of international private banking today, it’s not just about portfolio management.

It’s also about being positioned correctly when it comes to holding companies, strategic exits and cross-border planning.

ing in London, Mr. Lager was ideally suited for the role.

From 1999 to 2006, he helped grow the law firm from six to fifty staff, was made Partner in 2003 and ended up as Head of the Nordic Desk. In this role and in addition to helping individuals and businesses relocate to the UK, he advised clients on various international tax related issues, such as the setting up of holding companies, trusts, insurance solutions and generation planning.

New Ground at SEB As a Swedish advokat in London, Mr. Lager was frequently instructed and retained by Nordic banks, including Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken. During this time, SEB was interested in expanding its private banking offering to also encompass wealth structuring.

Mr. Lager joined SEB in Luxembourg in 2006, enticed by a new challenge in his career and eager to start a family with his wife in a more childfriendly city.

At SEB Mr. Lager began to offer the same international wealth structuring services to the bank’s private banking clients as he had previously done at the law firm in London. At the time this type of service was quite unusual in the banking industry, but ultimately made the bank more attractive publicly.

From 2006 to 2012, Mr. Lager worked as Head of Wealth Structuring at SEB in Luxembourg where he had direct contact with clients, many of which were in Singapore and other

parts of the Asia Pacific Region. He provided tailored and effective advice to clients of SEB’s private bankers.

“Clients tend to open up a bit more to a lawyer rather than to a private banker. This is because, in order for me to properly advise them, I need to know the bigger picture,” he said.

He also worked hard to raise the level of competence of SEB’s private bankers so that they could confidently discuss topics such as generation planning and tax structuring with clients.

From Europe to Asia On May 1 2012, Mr. Lager moved to Singapore to take up the position of General Manager of Private Banking & Wealth Management.

His predecessor, Mr. Ole Hamre, was asked to become Head of the Wealth Division in Norway, leaving this SE Asian position wide open. As Mr. Lager had done so much for the Luxembourg office, it was time to try something different. Furthermore, his legal expertise was seen as an asset which could complement SEB’s already strong banking reputation in the region.

His family has moved over as well, finding that Singapore was a relatively easy country to settle down in. Locating an apartment, schools for their two children and Swedish supplementary tuition were all simple to accomplish.

Even the family dog came along, although this proved to be the most difficult part of the transfer.

General Manager

Fredrik Lager in a busy city setting during a recent visit to Baangkok.

Building the Singapore Office Mr. Lager’s primary aim in his role as General Manager is to target the larger Nordic families in the region.

Although SE Asia is seen as a low tax region, tax and corporate structuring is still highly important, especially since most clients are so mobile.

Long-term planning, especially with regards to moving countries, is emphasised so as to protect and enhance client assets.

Additionally, Mr. Lager has to combine his past legal experience with the new managerial role, raising awareness among the staff and consulting with clients. Wealth structuring in combination with the more traditional private banking services to build relationships is hoped to boost SEB’s Asian reputation even more.

There are currently ten staff members, including four bankers, within the private banking division at SEB’s Singaporean office. This will grow to twelve over the summer, with the addition of a new client assistant and a Senior Private Banker, Mr. Lars Arleback, joining from SEB Private Banking in Geneva. There are also hopes for further expansion in the future.

From Sydney to Tokyo Covering an area from Sydney to Tokyo, SEB’s bankers have to deal with clients in a range of jurisdictions.

Given that the law differs from country to country, Mr. Lager believes in a general wealth structuring approach. If a more detailed strategy is required, however, the bank has several specialists on hand to deal with these issues.

SEB is already one of the most successful Scandinavian banks in Asia thanks in part to its highly competent Singapore office which was established in 1979. It also has offices in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing; some of the largest business hubs in the region. As a bank, SEB has been around for more than 150 years and is well-known for its stability, honesty and dependability.

Brand Planning As for reaching out to new clients, the main attraction is the competence of the SEB staff. With Mr. Lager onboard, this level of skill and expertise increases even further.

The fact that the bank can legally hold assets in Singapore provides a psychological benefit.

“Although much of today’s

world is digital, there’s still that feeling that you want to keep your money close to you, which is why SEB, as the first Nordic private bank in Asia, started to offer fully fledged private banking services locally from Singapore in 2005,” Mr. Lager pointed out.

As for plans for expansion, opening up additional branches can be time-consuming and legally difficult, due in part to the complex nature of international banking. Mr. Lager stated that taxation, regulatory and political stability are important from a private banking point of view, which is why SEB chose Singapore as their base. Thus for the time being, there are no plans to open up any new private banking offices in the region.

August 2012 • ScandAsia.Thailand 23

Nang Boon Sri and N in Siam and Ebeltoft

This portrait of Boon Sri Havmøller has a prominent place in the exhibition.

The big game hunter’s first tiger. In 1926 nobody could foresee the later threat to the survival of wildlife.

By Flemming Winther Nielsen Photos by Inge Justesen, Draaby, Ebeltoft

O

n 29th August 1926 Rasmus Havmøller wrote in his diary about his first tiger (in my translation): “We followed the tracks of the buffalo and after some time we realized that we had a competitor, the distinct tracks of a mature tigers paw showed in the tracks of the buffalo. It followed too; but since I so often have seen tiger tracks without seeing His Majesty himself, I didn’t think much about it….then there, to the left, almost covered by bushes, not 12 meters from us, the tiger lay crouching. The tail mowed, that’s why we noticed it.

Now it got up, stared at us for a second and sneaked away with fast cat like movements. It showed its broadside and I fired. The animal disappeared, silence for a moment, then a trembling in the ground, as a buffalo galloping away, then silence again”.

The tiger’s skin is still to be found in Havmøller’s ‘Siamese Collection’ in Ebeltoft, Denmark; more about that later.

Between Now and Then Here we are, Rasmus Havmøller’s son Palle and I, sitting in the silent arcades of Thailand Cultural Center a Sunday in April 2012. The musicians from the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra are arriving one by one with their instruments, rehearsal.

They played with success last night, but none of us can rest on our laurels, as we shall learn.

We are talking about old days, about Palles father Rasmus Havmøller who died in December 1940, when Palle was 1 year old. In a malaria fewer he waded out in the shallow waters of the bay of Ebeltoft and drowned. We talk about his mother, Boon Sri, the strong woman of the Mon people, who stayed on at Egsmark Strand, Ebeltoft and raised the two daughters and three sons. How the conditions during World War II became very difficult indeed for the family and how Palle helped when his mother worked in the moor, turning the peats so they could dry.

the old and established Thygesen Havmøller family in Ebeltoft and on Djursland, landowners and fishermen.

He was a bright boy, outstanding compared to his peers, but it must have been beyond imagination in the family that he, for example, should pursue an academic career.

He started his first fauna collection as a very young boy, the collection ‘instinct’ never left him. Rasmus got the well esteemed education as forest ranger -also because of his profound interest in nature.

His education took place in various manor houses in Denmark and Sweden, included was hunting skills and Rasmus proved to be a very good shot.

He then passed a governmental Tropical Forest Course with honors and was hired by EAC as Forest Assistant; in 1914 he sailed to Siam, to Bandon in the southern part of the country where EAC also had a concession, not teak but hardwood for sleepers.

An academic career

Fortune favors the Brave

Rasmus was born in 1890, son of

The young man of outdoor life and

24 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

nature really experienced a change in environment; from the somewhat frugal and sparse nature around Ebeltoft to the overwhelming, for a city dweller almost frightening, richness of all things growing – especially in the still existing tropical forests of Siam.

Rasmus had all the preconditions to take Siam in and he did. We know that he had a good time, working, hunting; with Boon Sri collecting items and adding trophies for his rapidly growing collection - and being with friends. He was known as one of the best big game hunters in Siam and often mentioned in the hunting notes of Bangkok Times. - Very many oranges in his turban. Danish friends from those days were many and they were loyal and kept contact with the family even after Rasmus died.

In 1920 there was money to build the villa ‘Bakkehuset’, facing the bay in Egsmark. The house became the domicile when the family returned to Denmark for good in 1933.

It seems that Rasmus Havmøller only visited Egsmark once, in 1920, but he undoubtedly trusted his brother who actually build the house.

Nai Rasmus Havmøller

The couple’s gravestone at the so-called new graveyard in Dråby by Ebeltoft.

Translating to Roman letters from the Thai phonetic alphabet is difficult. Therefore we notice different spelling suggestions of both names and places, here Boon Sri’s name. Although commoners, the family had a Coat of Arms – as can be seen

At Egsmark Strand, a few kilometers from the town of Ebeltoft we find this copy of a Thei Wat (Monastery), en miniature. It housed the exhibition in the 1930ties.

In the background ‘Lille Siam’ can be seen. The buildings are situated next to the family’s private residence ‘Bakkehuset

The work in Siam continued and it seems that there were always jobs to find, big game to hunt and items to collect. During this period he started to work as mining engineer and got a part in a tin mine. The mine seemed to be quite lucrative for a period, then came 1929. His last job was as travelling representative for Siam Cement Plc. 1929-33.

the days of the Absolute Monarchy dating back to King Chulalongkorn, we know it was forbidden to take especially religious (e.g. Buddha images) items out of the country.

Hunting for elephants and their tusks were also forbidden. I could imagine that ‘authorities’ took their toll of the collection. I dare to doubt whether they are to be found at the shelves in the museum or went somewhere else. Maybe the donation is the reason why the collection in Ebeltoft is carried by artifacts, arts and crafts plus magnificent representatives of the zoological world.

The Great Depression, time to leave In late October 1929 the American Stock Market on Wall Street crashed and triggered a 10 year long economic and political world crisis and depression. As seen before Siam was not hit immediately, but when realities reached the Bay of Siam the punch became double hard, also since the country had been mismanaged for years, especially during the reign of Rama VI. The coffers, all controlled by the court, were absolutely empty and the middle class came under severe strain. Then the price of commodities, such as rice and many locally mined minerals such as tin started to fall sharply.

The political situation in Siam deteriorated further, culminating in the so-called ‘Revolution of 1932’, when the Absolute Monarchy was finally abolished. Ministers and civil servants of Royal blood were arrested. King Rama VII later went into exile in Great Britain.

For many years the sentiment towards ‘the foreigners’ had been growing in Siam, this animosity was seemingly backed by the King. And in a troubled situation the highest in the land will always look for scapegoats. It was time also for Rasmus and Boon Sri to leave; they were not protected by one of the major foreign trading houses. During these years very few Danes arrived in the country.

Later in 1933 the numerous camphor boxes with what was left of the collections, gathered through all the years, were shipped. A small cash fortune was furthermore secured and brought to Denmark.

A big part of the collection was given to The National Museum in Bangkok. The Parliament of Siam enforced ‘The Act about Antiquities’, only in 1934. But already in

The Personal Decline Like so many others, just to mention Admiral Richelieu, Rasmus Havmøller had on certain stage attracted malaria and that seemingly in its most severe form (the form caused by parasites Falciparum). There was no real treatment at that time and without going into details, this malaria crippled the patient’s whole life, since the attacks were frequent and left the person unable to take any care of himself. The malaria followed Rasmus to his death.

Back in Egsmark the elegant ‘Little Siam’ was built for the exhibition.

Entrance fee 0.35 Crowns. Rasmus was in attendance, a qualified guide, when the malaria allowed. Later the house was used as guest House and the collection was placed in a building trying to resemble a small Siamese Temple, a Wat. Finally, in 1937, the couple opened a small restaurant in the building. Furthermore Rasmus gave talks and showed slides about Siam. He wanted to go back to Siam where he still had economic interests, but he never did or could. It is also doubtful whether it would have possible to get means of any substance out of that cash strapped country.

After the Germans invaded Denmark 9th of April 1940 the number of tourists to Djursland and Ebeltoft ebbed out. If not for other reasons then because petrol was rationed. As mentioned earlier, Rasmus Havmøller died in December 1940, 50 years old.

Boon Sri Just south of Bangkok inner city, Chao Phraya River forms a big loop where the river almost meets itself again. On

August 2012 • ScandAsia.Thailand 25

The exhibition has since 1940 been placed in the old Post Court, just behind the famous original Town Hall in Ebeltoft. Changing opening hours; check Google: den siamesiske samling

Rasmus Havmøller posing with two elephant tusks in 1940. These were stolen many years later and are no more to be seen.

the tiny and low laying land you find an ancient old Mon settlement, Phrae Phradeng. Boon Sri Chaichanapan was born here the 15. of November 1900; she was the daughter of a local leader in the Mon community.

Boon Sri ended her life in 1960, near Egsmark Strand, Ebeltoft then Mrs. (=Nang) Boon Sri Havmøller.

She and Rasmus met around 1916 and lived together ever since.

Here, in The Far East, it is imperative not to think of ‘marriage’ the European way. The first mentioning of marriage Registration in Siam is found in, what can be translated as: ‘The Civil and Commercial Code of 1923’, Chapter 5. But registration at some public office was not compulsory. Instead I’m very convinced that Boon and Rasmus went to the temple (as so many of us have done). Here the monks, five or nine, perform the wedding rites, give us their blessings and wish us a happy life together – and that was regarded as fully comprehensive.

However, EAC didn’t accept mixed marriages. Maybe that’s why Rasmus Havmøller left the Company around 1924. By the end of it, married ‘The Danish way’ they were.

This time the Danish Consul-general Hakon Christiansen was in charge of the ceremonies. The wedding took place in O. Paludan-Muellers home in Bangkok. Around 1932-3 the couple

had decided to move back to Denmark and Boon Sri for that purpose needed a Danish passport.

And Boon Sri stayed on in Egsmark, year after year. She liked to receive Thai guests so that she could prepare Thai dishes for them. A true highlight was when she, in 1951, received King Frederik IX and Queen Ingrid and presented the collection.

She never saw Siam/Thailand again and passed away in 1960.

The Siamese Collection in Ebeltoft For a start, it is a bit misleading to call the collection ‘Siamese’ since very many of the objects are of Danish origin – from Rasmus Havmøllers young years and his later. First and foremost this place is evidence of two life’s lived. We shouldn’t use the traditional museum ‘ruler’ on this exhibition.

But I suppose a Master of Arts will get the shivers when visiting the museum. It would be much against her systematic training and scientific approach. There are many items of beauty and high value; artifacts of all kinds, there are souvenirs, for example the wooden frogs you can buy on every street corner in Thailand year 2012 and there are many sorts of cheap bric-a-brac. Most items are of Siamese origin, but many are Danish. Some from Rasmus’ early days,

26 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

brilliantly stuffed birds and fish from the bay of Ebeltoft for example. It is beyond doubt that Boon Sri was the collector of the many silver ornaments, domestic and feminine items.

In many modern museums the advanced pedagogical approach almost takes the life out of the exhibition – no surprises, no astonishment left. That is not the case in the ‘Siamese Collection’ in the old Post Court in Ebeltoft, Denmark. Your eye lingers on a recent Buddha image, the big birds, a head of a buffalo, silver- and glassware - even silver ‘Fig

leafs’ for small girls are here. They all invite to a closer look and they call the imagination - if you have any left.

When bringing children, who are still blessed with fantasy and imagination, please allow them some time in peace here in this Aladdin’s treasury of the Far East and Egsmark Strand.

We brought Liva, four years old.

She was most interested, got very big eyes; especially the birds called her attention and she couldn’t help patting them. She remained concentrated for half an hour, a long time for a four years old girl.

Sources: Kann Rasmussen, A.(1986) : ’Danske i Siam 1858-1942.

Kaarsted, Tage (1990): ’Admiralen’.

I samlingen ‘Dansk Sømandsliv’: ’Kaptajn Anthon SØLLINGs [1847 – 1925] Optegnelser, Memoirer og Breve’. 0101 1974. Se ogsaa Scandasia April 2011.

Vedsted. Jacob (2012): ’Siamesisk Samling i Ebeltoft – og dens skabere’. (Museum Østjylland). ’My first Tiger’ is quoted from this work’. Originally occurred in: ‘Danmarksposten’ april 1931, p. 67-70.

Wad, Leo (1937): ‘Kalø – Mols – Ebeltoft. Illustreret Fører over Mols og Ebeltoft v/ Kai Elle. Lidt om Djurslands herregaarde’. [Annoncen for Havmoellers restaurant i ’Lille Siam’ findes i denne publikation].

Note: 1. Open Google sources are used, especially regarding the financial/political situation global an in Siam, following the crash on Wall Street, October 1929.

2. Pornpan Boonpattanaporn has looked through Siamese/Thai legislation re.

Marriages and antiquities.

Vacation Assistance for Swedes with Dis P Travelling to Thailand is not equally easy for all and poses a challenge in particular for people with disability. Semesterassistans on Phuket is now catering on site for the trips of such persons to be easier and more affordable.

By Joakim Persson

ersons with more severe disability, such as those in wheelchair obviously require assistance by others, including when travelling. And in a country with such an advanced social safety net as Sweden such persons have the legal right to having a personal caregiver paid for by public funding. The country is also well advanced in terms of catering to persons with disability regarding anything from transportation and restaurants to other public places and aid equipment.

But travelling to another country, in particular to developing countries is an entirely different matter.

A person with such disability that requires 24-hour-assistance means that this person must then source and pay for at least three more persons willing to follow him or her on a trip. And if travelling far, such as to Asia, and perhaps for a longer period this can be really challenging to accomplish.

Two people with the right experience realised that there was a need to cater to here and potentially a good business idea – setting up such a service on the very popular destination Phuket in Thailand. It would give a chance also for holidaying families where a child has a disability to have a real vacation thanks to getting the extra assistance required on site.

Valid concept Johan Bredberg, who is wheelchairbound, and his personal caregiver employee since year 2000, Mikaela Lusth came to realise that this concept could be a doable business, which they set up in Thailand in 2010 and started operations on Phuket in 2011. Obviously they both know the ins and outs of dealing with disability concerns and in addition they love to travel.

“We are both travel freaks,” begins Mikaela, who has also brought her whole family over to Phuket.

“As much as I could I have travelled.

And you Johan is the same: you love to travel.”

Back in 2008 she came to Thai28 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

On Phuket sability land for a ten-week holiday with her family and while here pondered what to do in the future and considered that Thailand could be a country where to spend more time. Later she found an ad for a Swedish school for sale in Hua Hin and dropped the idea to Johan of moving to Thailand, and since he is a teacher in the Swedish language. This also coincided with that Johan was on his way there for the first time.

The school project could not be materialised but together they instead staked on what keeps them occupied all the time, namely personal caregiving and disability aids.

Travel challenges “When you go travelling and if having 24-hour assistance you most likely need to bring at least three caregivers in order to cope. You might also need double assistance, and you need aid and it takes up space etc. So we thought about this and came up with the idea of offering assistance on location. That also means you don’t have to pay subsistence as when bringing caregivers from back home and can reduce your flight costs,” continues Mikaela.

Sourcing personal caregivers that are willing to travel far and being away a longer period can also pose a challenge, she points out, especially as the personnel are not paid for their free time.

“It might not be ideal to go abroad and only be paid half the time.”

“And one cannot bring all the help support from back home,” adds Johan.

“Also you might need extra staff down here when you want to do things that you don’t do back home while the surroundings is not accustomed to handicaps.”

If the disability is severe at least one caregiver is needed to come along during the travel as well, he points out.

“Then these personal caregivers get to work while here, and you only need extra staff from us.”

Readiness to improvise Semesterassistans is their name and they turn to everyone who has

a personal caregiver service back home, with the idea to offer assistance on Swedish terms.

“Or if you have a minor handicap which requires escort service to assist with certain things,” says Mikaela. “Our clients so far, however, have had severe handicaps – especially children. And that is also an entirely new thing; as adults one think from the point of an adult.

But if a family travel and bring along their child with a handicap needing assistance 24 hours all the attention goes to that child. And then any siblings come secondary.”

“We have worked with two such families that were very satisfied. They felt they could be normal parents and have time to play also with their other children thanks to getting personal assistance support while on holiday.”

Johan and Mikaela are also able to explain for prospective clients how things work over here in Thailand; that one cannot expect the same as back home, but that they can then offer on-site assistance in addition to giving suggestions for suitable accommodation.

While Thailand is not handicapfriendly they both think it is easy to be there because people are very helpful and accommodating in helping out.

Checking hotels Depending on the disability Semesterassistans can check in detail if a certain hotel will work for their client or not, and, out of own experience, really verify.

“We always ask what standard and what needs the particular person seeks and take it from there. And it’s not always that those in the hotel know. They might have rooms for people with handicaps but that is in itself no guarantee. If they don’t have it might work anyway,” says Johan.

Overall, the requests they get vary a lot but as regards to hotels they have a good sense for what works or not.

“One cannot just have a specific entrance but it must have a precise angle and so on. I have travelled a lot: in the U.S one month, around Europe

and in Australia for half a year. And that also contributed to our decision to start this, that I have vast experience in travelling with own disability and with Mikaela who had travelled a lot as well and had the thinking.”

“As an experienced personal caregiver one looks at things from the perspective of a wheelchair and when being well-travelled one knows what works or what requires to be solved with a bit of assistance etc. and takes things as they are,” adds Mikaela who says that having this travel experience is essential for personal caregivers wanting to work here, in order to be able to improvise. And only Swedes with working experience need apply.

“They should have worked not only as personal caregiver but also have life experience.”

Choosing where and for how long Persons with disability increasingly travel these days but when it comes to vacation destinations they are usually recommended the Canary Islands as that destination is well adjusted.

“If you want to travel to Thailand you are very much on your own to organize the trip,” according to Johan.

But with Semesterassistans on site (except during the summer low season) this long-haul favourite is now also an option – and where it is relatively inexpensive to stay for a longer period.

“And our difference is that we want our customers to choose for how long they want to stay and where they want to stay.”

“The fundamental idea is that just because you have a disability you should not be referred to accommodation where all the others are also disabled. But I want to stay in a hotel where everybody else stays and I don’t want to travel in the company of other disabled persons. And I want to stay for longer.

So the idea is to be able to choose yourself. It’s all good with these handicap-adjusted options but, somewhere one might want to be normal, and be able to travel on equal terms,” ends Mikaela.

August 2012 • ScandAsia.Thailand 29

Discover Your Head for Heights Eagle Track Zipline will this year expand to 15 ziplines, cover 34 platforms and offer a wide range of challenging activities while soaking up the stunning scenery.

By Kirsty Turner

“A

For more information, phone 085 7229090, email then at info@eagletrackchiangmai.com or visit their website at www.eagletrackchiangmai.com 30 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

re you ready?” the team leader asks me, smiling encouragingly. I simply nod, not trusting myself to speak.

Although I love heights and the idea of flying through the jungle, this is my first time riding a zipline. However, although I feel nervous, the encouraging smiles of the team at Eagle Track Zipline inspire me to step from the wooden platform.

As soon as I am in the air my excitement returns and I feel a rush as I look down and see the beauty of the jungle far below me. To my surprise, the experience feels very natural and I am able to let go completely, spreading out my arms and flying like an eagle. Before I know it, I see the next platform before me and lift up my legs to land.

I am still buzzing from the thrill of flying when I face my next challenge: wobbling my way across a sky bridge and then bouncing across a set of Kung Fu steps before balancing over a zig-zag walkway. For someone with virtually no sense of balance this seems a little daunting, but I am safely hooked to a secure cable, so there is no way to fall. To my surprise, the encouraging words from the team make the task easy, and my confidence grows as I realize that I am really enjoying this.

Eagle Track Zipline opened to the public in December 2011, and is quickly gaining a reputation as one of the best and most exciting zipline experiences in the whole of Thailand. The team gained experience working for ten years at another outdoor adventure company before deciding to go it alone ad

create their own company.

The company work in harmony with the environment and take great lengths to care for it and protect it. All the equipment used has been specially selected so that it is the best that money can buy and completely safe and secure.

In the coming year they plan to launch a second zipline package, which lasts for a full day. People who opt for the new package will be able to zoom along 15 ziplines, cover 34 platforms and take part in a wide range of other challenging activities while soaking up the stunning scenery.

I am glowing as I approach the next zipline, and this time there is no fear, only excitement. I complete nine ziplines in all, with each expertly positioned to offer a fresh view of this stunning area of Mae Rim. We cover a total of twenty one platforms, including some connecting three thrilling high speed drops.

At the end of the experience, a delicious home cooked meal is prepared by the team. The women preparing the food greet me warmly and encourage me to help myself to huge portions of my favourite Thai dishes.

After eating my fill I return to Chiang Mai feeling sure that I am ready to take whatever new challenges that life has in store for me.

Information: The headquarters of Eagle Track Zipline can be found at 3/108 Rattanakosin, Changpuek Muang, Chiang Mai. The silver package is available for just 2,400 baht for half a day, while the gold package costs 2,900 baht and lasts for a full day.

TWO CHEFS D

32 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

Dynasty on Phuket The TWO CHEFS restaurants started with two young Swedes who shared a dream of living in Thailand. The dream came true but it took many years of hard work to become the success they are today.

By Dennis Krog

“W

e just started a catering business three months ago and in the middle of June we are opening up a TWO CHEFS Bakery & Bistro,” says founder and partner, Billy Agren, sitting in the TWO-CHEFS restaurants in Karon, Phuket.

The brand already consists of three restaurants, one in Karon and two in Kata. The business is in many ways going well, but it has been a long road for Billy Agren, who as the only one has taken the trip from the beginning through the rough years and now enjoys the success, while still looking forward.

“It’s going to be fun opening up the bistro and bakery. We have been practicing making our own bread for the last two years,” says the 34 year old Swede, who opened up the first TWO CHEFS restaurant at the age of 23.

Fighting for Success The premiere of TWO CHEFS was in 2000 when the two friends and trained chefs, Billy Agren and Daniel Shamir went into business together.

The two friends had set Thailand as a target since they visited the country in 1994, but six years in Sweden, where they finished chef-school, put the dream on hold until 1999.

“Actually at that time we were looking for jobs in Australia, as we thought we would have a better chance there, but our love for Thailand was still strong so when the offer came we didn’t hesitate,” says Billy Agren.

The offer was to work as chefs at a restaurant in Patong, and the young Swedes got valuable experience before deciding on opening their own place in 2000 - after a short trip back to Sweden.

“We went home a couple of months to make some money. The rest we borrowed,” says Billy, laughing a little bit at the plan they had back then.

Back in Thailand the Swedes opened up the first TWO CHEFS restaurant in Kamala, but after some problems with the owner of the building the Swedes had to move on, and at the same time they took

in Henrik Ojelind as a third partner, and opened up in Kata.

“We were actually not looking for a place in Kata, but as we found a good location there, we took it.

Looking back at that decision I can definitely say that it was a good one” In 2004 it was time to open up a second restaurant, this one did not carry the TWO CHEFS name and it was located in Pattaya, a location that turned out to be lifesaving for the business.

“Because of the tsunami in 2004 we were almost out of business for a year in Kata. It was very fortunate we had the Pattaya restaurant, which was going well, otherwise we would have had to close down,” says Billy.

Eventually Daniel Shamir decided to settle down in Pattaya, and the Swedes split up the businesses with Billy Agren and Henrik Ojelind continuing their expansion in Phuket.

2007 saw the opening of TWOCHEFS in Karon and already in 2008 a third TWO CHEFS restaurant opened and made for two restaurants in Kato, where Krister Westberg was brought in as a third partner. The new restaurants marked a turning point for the TWO CHEFS business.

“It was quite a struggle for many years, but since we opened in Karon all of our restaurants have actually been running well. Of course there is a lot of competition, but we survived through the tough years, and now it seems like we are harvesting

the fruits of our hard work,” says Billy Agren, pointing out that the clear concept of serving the best food possible has actually paid off.

Good food and fantastic staff On the day of this interview, Billy Agren is pulled away from the kitchen where he and his staff were experimenting with new dishes, something they do often to keep them on their toes.

“I don’t like shortcuts and that goes for the way I work in a kitchen as well. We all do our best every day and that shows,” says Billy Agren, who actually claims that after the many hard years with a lot of work, he now has a pretty normal working schedule that allows him to spend time with his three children and his wife.

“One of the key reasons is the staff. We have been working many years to get loyal and good staff.

Now we have that, and we consider ourselves very lucky with our employees,” says Billy.

The fact that Billy Agren is working less nowadays has to do with him wanting to spend more time with the family, but at the same time the Swede is definitely an entrepreneur, and there is a good chance that the TWO CHEFS brand is to expand even more on the popular island of Phuket.

“Maybe we have enough in Kata and Karon, but Patong is always interesting,” says Billy, while giving one of those smiles that says: “Wait and see”.

August 2012 • ScandAsia.Thailand 33

New ways of exploring Thailand:

Discover Thailand by Apps

T

ourism Authority of Thailand has developed 19 apps that can help you plan your trip and find exciting experiences once in Thailand. These English-language apps are all compatible with iPad, and most also with iPhone. The most popular apps are also available for Android, BlackBerry and Nokia Ovi. The most popular app is Speak Thai, which serves as your personal translator on your trip. Select an English term or phrase from a category in your mobile phone to find out the corresponding word or phrase in Thai, e.g. ‘How much is it?’: ‘Raakhaa thaorai?’

The Lifestyle Thailand app provides selected tips for unique experiences to make your trip extra special. Regardless of whether you want thrilling outdoor adventures, advice on child-friendly accommodation by the beach or trendy shopping in the city, Lifestyle Thailand can provide a wealth of information.

Green Thailand is an app developed to showcase the many environmentally-friendly and sustainable options available to tourists in Thailand. The app lists eco-friendly destinations and accommodation options both in the country side and close to cities and beaches. You also have the option of sharing your favourite eco-tourism tips with others.

Green Thailand is what Scandinavia experts believe will have the greatest appeal to Scandinavian travellers in the years to come.

How to download and install?

Point your mobile phone browser to this address: http://mobile.tourismthailand.org/ Then select the platform of your mobile phone. See which apps are available and click on the ones, you would like to install.

Sangkhlaburi in the West:

A bridge between cultures Sangkhlaburi maintains a uniquely pleasant simplicity and tranquility

How To Get There There are buses leavingfrom Bangkok’s Mo Chit BusTerminal to Sangkhlaburi daily.You can also take a van from the Victory Monument to Kanchanaburi and then catch another van to Sangkhlaburi. The ride takes about 6-7 hours.

34 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

S

angkhlaburi is a little town in the far western corner of Thailand that has much to offer in terms of culture, landscape, and activity. It is located less than 20 km away from the Thai-Burmese border in a straight North West direction from Bangkok beyond Kanchanaburi and its ‘Death Railway’.

Many of its local attractions today are a result from the Vajiralongkorn Dam’s construction in 1979. This reservoir submerged the whole Mon village and, ironically, created the famous “sunken temple” that has become a renowned attraction. Most of the accommodations stand by the reservoir. There are a couple of hip, bohemian cafes, which makes it comparable to Pai but in a more measured manner.

The Thai and Mon sides of the village are joined by the celebrated “Uttamanusorn” Bridge.

This is the longest wooden bridge of Thailand, an assemblage of unpolished wooden boards and planks spanning over 800 metres. The rickety feel and rawness of the material somehow makes it beautiful and picture perfect. At 6:30 a.m. every morning, monks make their daily procession. You can participate in this rite at the entrance of the bridge on the Mon side. It is a good way to get a glimpse of the local culture.

Chaiyaphum in Esarn:

A garden of rocks The ‘Stonehenge of Thailand’, a garden of rocks that rise inexplicably from the ground, is a natural wonder said to be over 175 million years old.

H

igh in the mountains, looking down upon Chaiyaphum’s sprawling farmlands and scattered towns, sits Mo Hin Khao, hidden away inside Phu Laen Kha National Park. We are smack in the middle of the North eastern area of Thailand, its most overlooked region referred generally to as Esarn.

Once you begin your descent up in Phu Laen Kha National Park, the road becomes a treacherous one, made of red dirt and deeply riveted by heavy rains. As the trees become sparse, the first rocks begin to jut awkwardly from the ground. The first site at Mo Hin Khao is the five Standing Pillar Stones. These naturally formed megaliths rise nearly 10 m tall, and sit neatly in a semi-circle.

Higher up the mountain where only few local tourists go, you find the Khlong Chang rocks. Continuing on, you’ll see the Lan Hin Ton Sai formations, where giant trees have miraculously grown up through the rock, their roots winding intricately through tiny cracks.

The road continues on towards the highest point of Mo Hin Khao, the perfect place to sit and take in the staggering views of the land below.

In this remote location, no sounds can be heard but the chirping of birds and the gentle rustling of grass in the breeze.

How To Get There Mo Hin Kao stands in Chaiyaphum province, 360 km Northeast of Bangkok. Buses leave daily from Mo Chit terminal. From Chaiyaphum town, take Route 2051 Northeast approximately 6 km. Turn left at Route 2159 and continue on for 30 km to reach the PhuLaenKha National Park entrance. From here, follow the signs to MorHinKhao, another 21 km.

Natural Kuiburi:

Khao Sam Roi Yot

T

How To Get There Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park Amphur Kui Buri, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77150 Thailand

36 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

he coast of Prachuabkhirikan only gets more beautiful the further south, you go. It is clean and unspoilt simply because it takes a few hours longer to drive there from Bangkok. But coming from Singapore? Hey! that’s no problem!

Kuiburi is a small town smack in the middle of this stretch. One of the most awazing natural wonders in this area is the unique Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park. The whole area located 40 km north of Kuiburi is of prime ecological importance for Thailand. Limestone mountains rise up to 605 meters from the coastal marshes making it a topographical wonder.

You can make your way up to caves of spectacular sizes through forest trails, rest on fine white sandy beaches, take boat excusions to outlying islands, enjoy the food that is on offer throughout the park and maybe, just maybe you might be lucky enough to see the pods of dolphins that inhabit the bay.

In 2010, 300 tourists visiting Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park were interviewed to find out their satisfaction. The result showed that tourists were highly satisfied toward Eco-tourism services at Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park. Most of tourists in the study were female, aged between 26-35 years, bachelor’s degree, professional employees/private.

It is recommended that you wear good walking shoes as the terrain is hilly and it can be very dry or wet underfoot depending on the time of year. Try to ascend the 430 meter hill to the main cave.

You’ll be rewarded with a spectacular display of stalagmites around the pavilion built by King Rama V.

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

Tune Hotel to Open in Bangkok in October

F

ollowing the success of its previous properties in Hat Yai and Pattaya, the global value hotel chain “Tune Hotel” has announced it will open its first hotel in Central Bangkok in October this year.

Tune Hotel Asoke will be located in a central location on Sukhumvit Road which provides easy accessibility for shopping, dining and entertainment. The hotel will have 130 rooms comprising of double, twin-sharing and disabled-friendly rooms.

To celebrate the opening of Tune Hotel Asoke, the hotel offers various preopening promotions for guests to stay at special rates.

Group CEO of Tune Hotels Mark Lansester said that the hotel aims to provide Bangkok’s visitors a world-class accommodation that offers great value for money. He said that there are plans to open more hotels in Thailand where the next destination will be the resort island of Phuket.

For more information, visit www.tunehotels.com

Memorable Honeymoon at Vartika Resovilla KuiBuri

L

For more information, contact +66 (0)32 820-164 or visit www.vartikakuiburi.com 38 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

ocated a short drive from Hua Hin, Vartika Resovilla KuiBuri is a boutique resort on the beautiful Bornok Beach in KuiBuri, Prachuabkhirikhan province.

The resort features 23 room types decorated in different themes. It has 11 themed villas, one spacious 180 degree panoramic sea-view Penthouse, four sea-view Suites and five themed Classic Rooms for guests to choose from.

Facilities include The Traveler’s restaurant, VARTIKA Spa, salt-water purified pool, mini-golf and bicycles.

From 1 September to 31 October, it is offering a ‘Memorable Honeymoon’ package for couples to enjoy 3 days 2 nights at special prices starting from 9,000 baht.

The package includes daily breakfast in bed, complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, barbeque seafood dinner, mini-bar in room of 14 items, kayaking and many more.

Are you looking for a new place in SINGAPORE? I know the perfect HOUSE or APARTMENT in strategic locations for you and your family to live.

Let me help you find your dream property!

We protect homes, workplaces and society

PURCHASE, RENT OR SELL, MY TOP PRIORITY IS TO SATISFY ALL MY CUSTOMERS’ RELOCATION NEEDS HSR International Realtors Pte Ltd 3 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh #01-01 HSR Building, Singapore 319378 Tel: 6559 8888 Fax: 6559 8889

$ Guarding services $ Surveillance & CCTV systems $ Access Control & biometrics Securitas Thailand Email: sales.info@securitas.co.th Telephone: 02 402 8258 www.securitas.co.th

$ 24/7 remote monitoring $ Mobile patrols $ Alarm systems $ K9/Dog units $ GPS tracking

Keenan Bode BA (Hons) Marketing Associate Director CEA Reg No.: R028500I

Call me NOW for a NON-binding discussion!!! (+65) 9735 0107 keenanbode@hsr.com.sg keenan.bode@yahoo.co.uk

Family Fun at Avista Hotel and Resorts

F

rom now until October 2012, Avista Hotel and Resorts in Phuket is offering “Grand Family Package” for all family members to enjoy. The package is priced from THB 5,999 per night for two adults and two children.

It includes daily buffet breakfast, one set dinner, two-way airport transfer and usage of all five-star facilities in the hotel. A package is valid for a minimum stay of three nights in Grand Deluxe Room.

Under the concept of laid-back luxury, guests can walk barefoot to the lobby or relax in a spacious room having a drink while enjoying beautiful scenery of Phuket from a private balcony. Families can enjoy two generous-sized swimming pools where parents can also sample the delights of a swim-up bar.

Other facilities include Kids Club, fitness centre, and business centre. Spa and En Vogue restaurant which serves both Eastern and Western styles food are also available.

The resort is conveniently located on Kata beach and is close to major shopping malls such as the Jungceylon and Central Festival Mall. Fun activities such as water sports and sightseeing are also available nearby.

For more information about the package, visit www.avistahotelsandresorts.com

Indulgent Room Package at Intercontinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort

I

nterContinental Samui Baan TalingNgam Resort is now offering ‘Serenity Hideaway’ package for guests to experience a spa journey at the newly opened Baan Thai Spa during a stay at the resort.

Baan Thai Spa is located at the resort’s cliff-top location at 120-metres high, nestled on the side of a rolling green cliff with views of the tropical landscape and the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand.

The package is priced from THB 9,900* per night with accommodation in an Ocean View Room, and available from July 15 until 22 December 2012. A minimum of two consecutive nights’ stay is required for this package.

The package also includes a 120-minute signature Baan Thai Spa treatment of choice once per stay for two people, complimentary 90-minute private yoga lesson, complimentary round-trip airport transfer, free Wi-Fi, 20% discount on additional spa treatments, and more.

For more information, contact +66(0) 77429100 or visit http://samui.intercontinental.com/spa-wellness

40 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

August 2012 • ScandAsia.Thailand 41

Medium

Swedish Pancakes S

wedish pancakes or “plättar” served with whipped cream and raspberry jam is one of those simple pleasures everyone should enjoy at least once...a week.

To make them the right size, the best is definitely to use a castiron or cast-aluminum pan with shallow, round indentations. If you don’t have one, you can “cheat” by using the round shapes used for frying eggs that prevent the eggs from flattening out on the frying pan.

The main difference that make the Swede prefer plättar from American pancakes is the texture of crepes - thin, flexible and eggy - rather than thick, fluffy and bready.

Evil

Are you done?

W

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.

Name:

___________________________________________________

Age: ________________________

Mobile:

___________________

Address:

__________________________________________________

__________________________________________________

__________________________________________________

Email:

__________________________________________________

Deadline for submitting your solution is 15 September 2012 42 ScandAsia.Thailand • August 2012

• 2 eggs • 2.5 cups whole milk • 1 cup wheat flour • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 tablespoon sugar • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 2 tablespoons butter, melted • whipped or sour cream • raspberry jam In a large bowl, mix together the eggs and half the milk. Add the flour and mix until a smooth batter is formed. Add the rest of the milk, the salt, sugar, baking powder and the melted butter.

Grease the hot pan cups with butter. Spoon 2 rounded tablespoons batter into each greased cup.

Remember... thin! Cook about 1 minute on each side or until golden brown. Serve immediately with jam or jelly and whipped cream or sour cream.

Serves 2 hungry kids or 1 Swedish husband.

“If I had to eat one kind of food every day for the rest of my life, it’d be pancakes.”

When it’s time to do business, we’re exceptionally open.

Every business has a different story and a different goal. We understand that.

Over many years in this market of unique opportunities, we’ve developed the local knowledge, resources and connections needed to turn ambitions into reality. That’s why we’re one of the most well-established northern European banks in the region. For corporates, financial institutions and private banking clients, we’re ready to listen and cater to your needs – in Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore and New Delhi.

Welcome to contact us at Tel: +65 63 57 08 95 singapore@sebprivatebanking.com.sg www.sebgroup.com/privatebanking