ScandAsia Thailand - February 2011

FEB 2011

Thailand

Danish Ambassador Couple Love Thailand ScandAsia.dk

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Din investeringsrådgiver, der møder dig på din hjemmebane, forener ekspertise på højt niveau med en afslappet og imødekommende facon. Derfor vil du straks føle dig velkommen i Sydbank (Schweiz) AG.

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Kontakt os og aftal et møde Hvis du vil høre mere om, hvad vi kan tilbyde dig i Sydbank (Schweiz) AG, så læs mere på sydbank.ch eller kontakt Allan Hvii Senior Vice President +41 (0)71 227 81 60 allan.hvii@sydbank.ch

Coming Events

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: Scandinavian Publishing Co., Ltd. 4/41-2 Ramintra Soi 14, Bangkok 10230, Thailand Tel. +66 2 943 7166-8, Fax: +66 2 943 7169 E-mail: news@scandasia.com Editor-in-Chief: Gregers A.W. Møller gregers@scandmedia.com Advertising: Finn Balslev finn@scandmedia.com Piyanan Kalikanon piyanan@scandmedia.com Nattapat Maesang nattapat@scandmedia.com Graphic Designer: Supphathada Numamnuay supphathada@scandmedia.com Distribution: Pimjai Chaimongkol pimjai@scandmedia.com Printing: Advanced Printing Services Co., Ltd.

Daily news and features here: www.scandasia.com

SSS Annual Party Date: Saturday 26 March 2011 The Scandinavian Society Siam invites members and spouse to join the Annual Party. The party will take place on Saturday 26 March 2011. Venue and time will be announced soon. If you are interested to be a member or participate SSS event, please contact contact@ScandinavianSocietySiam.com.

Viking Wheelers President’s Ride Date: Saturday 26 March 2011 One of the most active Nordics is Viking Wheelers who enjoy bicycle trip in Thailand. They will have monthly trip “Presidents Ride” on Saturday 26 March which will be organized by the President Henrik Fiis. Follow up on more detail at www.vikingwheelers.com and inquiries at writeus@vikingwheelers.com.

Nordic Chamber Networking Date: Wednesday 16 March 2011, 18:30 - 20:30 The Nordic Chambers of Commerce in Thailand consists of Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce, Thai-Finnish Chamber of Commerce, Thai-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce and Thai-Swedish Chamber of Commerce. They frequently share member activities and this time they will co-organize the Nordic Chamber Networking Sponsored by Air Berlin. Mark your date to meet your Nordic friends in Thailand.

Please contact your chamber for more information.

DanCham Easter Lunch Date: Friday 1 April 2011 Last year The Easter Lunch was sold out!

This Lunar Year, the Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce would like to invites you to the traditional Danish Easter Lunch on Friday 1 April 2011. Remember that seating is limited! The date has been marked and the venue will be announced at www. dancham.or.th. You are able to make early registration at contact@dancham.or.th.

On the lookout for CNY? The only Nordic Private Bank in Asia Pacific.

Now also offering offshore Chinese Yuan investments.

Tel: +65 63570895 E-mail: singapore@sebprivatebanking.com.sg www.sebgroup.com/privatebanking

Swedish Christmas Dinner at Stable Lodge

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he Swedish Christmas Dinner 2010 was organized by The Thai Swedish Chamber of Commerce at Stable Lodge Restaurant on 15 December 2010. Around 40 guests gathered up in friendly atmosphere.

The Swedish businessmen and their guests enjoyed the Scandinavian buffet, beer, snaps and wine. Because all the guests clearly knew each other well, the atmosphere was very warm and friendly. The excitement grew when Mr. John Svengven, the Director of SwedCham, draw the giveaway voucher from Genesis Skin Klinik valued THB 10,000 each - and there were 8 vouchers in total!

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1. Jimmy Jensen, Managing Director, Scan Global Logistics Co., Ltd, with Niels Henrik Hansen, Director and General Manager Southeast Asia, SAS. 2. President Kenneth Radencrantz (left), Ms. Rutjirat Vongthongsri (right) and her husband (middle).

3. The buffet at The Stable had it all.

4. Erik Dahlstrom, Asian Tigers Transpo (left) with friends.

5. Executive Director John Svengren with his wife Sirin Mungpoonklang.

6. Eric Helander, Visionhouse, was one of the lucky winners 7. Kenneth Radencrantz addressing the members and guests.

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First Dancham Networking in Hua Hin

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t was a remarkable night with Danish residents and visitors in Hua Hin. The first Dancham Networking in Hua Hin was arranged at the Mondo Vino Wine Shop and co-sponsored by MODENA Condos and Pool Villas in Pranburi on the night of 1st January 2011. All guest enjoyed the yummy finger food and non-stop poured white and red wine by Mondo Vino.

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1. Peter Kirketerp (orange shirt) and his friends.

2. Steve Laursen, founder of Danish Network in Hua Hin (left) and his friend.

3. Jon Plate, the Goodwill Ambassador of Copenhagen; and his wife.

4. From left: Jesper Esman Pedersen, DanCham’s Paranee Grace Jansawake, and Anne Groth Katballe.

5. From left: Neil A. Shorthouse and Suwatt Pathompakawan.

6. Carsten B. Andersen, Kvik Kitchens, Jon Plate and Poul Valeur Jepsen, Kvik kitchens.

7. Danish residents & visitors enjoyed finger food and wine in friendly atmosphere.

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6 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

A Different Norwegian Service in Pattaya

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unday 19. January the Norwegian Seaman’s Church, in Pattaya had moved the normal Sunday service from noon until in the evening.

Once again the Church in Pattaya hosted a weeklong seminar for all staff working in the Norwegians Seamen’s churches in Dubai, Okpo in South Korea, Singapore, and in Pattaya.

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1. Group photo of the participants in the seminar.

2. The Seaman’s Church Pastor Jan Olav Johannessen was the leader of the service.

3. Three to four times the pianist Jostein Danielsen, piano, and the singers Kristin Gramstad, Jan Tommyy Fosse, Lena Rebekka Risnes lightened up the evening with their Christian songs.

4. A special guest during the evening was the former Norwegian Premier Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik. Here talking to Secretary General for the region including Dubai and South Korea, the former Norwegian football star Audun Myhre.

5. Participants in the seminar.

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Dancham Welcomes New Ambassador

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he new Danish Ambassador to Thailand, Mr. Mikael Hemniti Winther, was introduced to members of the Danish Thai Chamber of Commerce at a packed reception in the InBlu Jazz Lobby Lounge of hotel Grand Millennium Sukhumvit on Wednesday, 19 January 2011. Around 100 participants at the event was a new record for high attendance at the Danish networking nights. Especially many younger members joined the evening.

Dancham President Mr. Peter E. Romhild wished the new Ambassador welcome and then gave the word to Mikael Hemniti Winther. The new Ambassador thanked everyone for coming and expressed his wishes for further close cooperation in the future between the Embassy and the Chamber.

1. Ambassador Mikael H. Winther adressed the many members and guests.

2. President Peter E. Romhild welcomed the new Ambassador.

3. Members welcoming the ambassador from left Klaus Stoeve, Jakob Ingemann, Thomas Nyborg and Soeren Wettendorff.

4. Wanna Laasholdt, Bent Laasholdt and Brenda Jensen.

5. The evening was very popular with members filling up the lobby lounge bar of the Grand Millenium Sukhumvit.

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February 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 7

ScandAsia News Brief

Young T Norwegians Scammed When Buying Tickets to Thailand

wo Norwegians, Preben Tveit (22) and Sven Christiansen (24) from Bergen, bought a pair of tickets online, wanting to go to Thailand for the Christmas holidays. But arriving at the airport check-in counter the Chritsmas spirit was put on hold.

The Lufthansa tickets they bought from a private person via www.finn.no, who claimed he had to sell his tickets due to illness, proved not to be in order.

Lufthansa said the to young men had been defrauded, even though they had previously received confirmation from the airline that the tickets were genuine.

After a night in Oslo, the two buddies decided to try to find new tickets online.

“We found some tickets from Stockholm, so now we take the bus and train and then the flight to Phuket leaves tomorrow afternoon.

So it seems that we get to Thailand anyway,” said Preben Tveit to Dagbladet.

Lufthansa has experienced similar cases with people who have the same story.

KIS International School Scholarships Available for All Nationalities

Finnish Kallio Signs With Thai Club

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wo-time defending Thai Premier League champions Muang Thong United have signed former Fulham player Toni Kallio from Finland. Nicknamed the "Bonecrusher" because of his physique and his playing style, the Finnish player said: "It is great to join the best team in Thailand. It is another challenge for me. I also received an offer from Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premier League but I think Muang Thong have ambition for more success."

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IS International School is now accepting applications for their generous scholarships. KIS offers the internationally acclaimed International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes for students ages 2 ½ to 18 (Primary Years, Middle Years and IB Diploma). Scholarships are now available for all age groups through the following categories: One Million Baht IB Diploma Scholarship: Teenagers of any nationality, currently aged 15 or 16 years old can apply to compete for the grant. The scholarship offers free tuition for the duration of the IB Diploma in grade 11 and 12. There will be one winner only, but partial scholarships may be offered to runners up.

Secondary School Academic Scholarships: Academically strong and well-balanced students of any nationality may apply for grade 6-10 scholarships. Winners of the scholarships may receive between 30% and 90% off tuition fees.

Financial Scholarships: Open to international students from 2 ½ to 17 years old, financial scholarships are designed to support international families who are unable to pay full school fees and are otherwise unable to access education for their children.

Financial scholarships are granted based on availability, financial need, family- and student profile and space available.

All scholarships are open to new applicants who are fluent in English. Applicants should also be academically strong, well-rounded students and will be required to sit an exam and undergo an interview as part of the application process. There are limited numbers of scholarships available. Applications must be received before May 6, 2011.

For full conditions and more information about the scholarships please contact linda@kis.ac.th or sakonwan@kis.ac.th.

8 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

ScandAsia News Brief Johnny Reimar Inaugurates New Half-Way Home in Pattaya

Danish celebrity Johnny Reimar and Christina Obel of the Danish Pattaya Foundation.

KVIK Official Opening in Thailand

10 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

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o the tunes of ‘Amazing Grace’, a group of blind children on Thursday, January 20. opened the new ‘Half-Way Home’ in Pattaya together with Danish celebrity Johnny Reimar and Christina Obel of the Danish Pattaya Foundation.

“I think the foundation has done a great job here, and it is nice to see the result of yet another project to help some of the many severely tested youngsters,” said Johnny Reimar, who came as a representative for the Danish Pattaya Foundation (“Den Danske Pattaya Fond af 2003”).

The new home is an exclusive house for a selection of street children and orphans, who show a distinct willingness to move up in society. The home is build together with Fr. Ray Foundation Children's Home & Drop-In Center in Pattaya. The cost of the house itself was 600,000 THB, an amount made available by the Danish Pattaya Foundation and especially the Obel family.

Currently, two children will move into the new home, while two more are scheduled to move in late this year. The house might be open for up to eight kids later on.

On Friday the 21st of January, Johnny Reimar visited the Pattaya Orphanage to inspect some water tanks he has donated.

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he Danish KVIK kitchens came to Bangkok on Friday evening 14 January when Khun Chalermkiat and Khun Alisara Suwanprinya, Scandi Kitchens Co., Ltd. opened their KVIK showroom om Rama 9 between the Rachadapisek and the MCOT intersection.

The opening reception was well attended by Thai designers, Thai architects, Thai real estate developers, Thai media and VIP's - and only a few foreigners mixed in between. This attendance was the perfect mix for the owners who aim at the broad Thai market for the Danish design kitchen and not the farang niche market.

The exception was of course Carsten B. Andersen of Kvik in Denmark, Ole Frendesen who is about to opening his own Kvik showroom in Hua Hin and a few others related to the Danish brand.

When leaving, all guests received a book in Thai language with photographs of Danish design architecture and other Danish design solutions taken by Khun Chalermkiat and Khun Kris themselves when they visited Denmark and the Kvik factory last summer.

Anyone interested in Danish design can obtain their own copy by stopping by the shop on 59/2 Rama 9 - or by contacting Khun Chalermkiat on email lek@ bangkok.kvik.co.th

DTAC Contract to Ericsson

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TAC, Thailand’s second largest mobile phone operator with 20 million subscribers, has signed its first contract with Ericsson to modernize its nationwide 2G, GSM/EDGE network, and prepare for mobile-broadband services based on WCDMA/HSPA and LTE/4G. The operator will meet the demands that come with the country’s 30 percent annual growth rate in data traffic and fast mobile take-up, which is currently over 100 percent.

Rolf Marthinusen, CTO of DTAC, says: “This modernization will provide a more efficient and capable network that is well suited to today’s demands, and readies us for 3G and 4G/LTE." "This gives us a strong roadmap for years to come, so DTAC can continue to deliver leading services to Thai consumers and business users. Through Ericsson’s combination of technology and services expertise we feel confident that this live upgrade of our network will be managed in a smooth way.”

In order to facilitate DTAC’s technology migration, Ericsson will also support in managing the network during the first year of operation. Ericsson will also supply and integrate the Messaging in One platform, and provide network rollout and manage services during the first year of rollout and operation.

Joacim Damgard, President of Ericsson Thailand says: “Data traffic is growing in Thailand due to the increased use of smart phones and mobile broadband. To meet this trend and the increased expectations on user experience, it’s crucial to have a cost-effective and futureproof network.”

Danish Ambassador C

Mikael H. Winther and his wife Ratanawadee enjoy their new posting as the Ambassador of Denmark to Thailand, Cambodia and Myanmar. The couple met during Mikael’s first posting to Thailand in 1995 to 1998.

The romantic story started with the Annual Australian Ball in the summer of 1996.

By Gregers Moller Photos by Disraporn Yatprom

12 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

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ikael Hemniti Winther and his wife Ratanawadee (or Ratana as her husband calls her) enjoy their new posting as the new Ambassador of Denmark to Thailand, Cambodia and Myanmar.

“No, happy is not the right word... I am extraordinarily happy!”

Mikael laughs.

The fact that Thailand is Ratana’s home country is of course part of the joy. But it goes a lot deeper than that.

“Thailand was the first country in Asia I visited as a young backpacker,” Mikael says.

“I had never been to Asia before so Thailand was my first experience and it made a lasting impression on me. Later, my first posting abroad was at the UNIDO/UNDP office in the Philippines and it was like a confirmation for me: Asia is my place to be!”

“Thailand has always been my top first priority if ever I should become an Ambassador. But in the beginning I didn’t think much about it. First I would have to become an Ambassador - that was a big enough dream in itself! But now that I am, returning to Thailand became our dream posting.”

Second time here Mikael Winther’s first posting to Thailand was as First Secretary in 1995 to 1998. Prior to that posting, he had a course in Thai language, which turned out to be useful.

“The Thais seemed happy that I could speak some Thai and that encouraged me to take more intensive courses. People joke that I learned Thai from Ratana, but I was taking classes in Thai and could already speak some Thai when we first met.”

So, how did the Ambassador and his wife meet?

Couple Love Thailand “I was single and I really enjoyed being a bachelor at that time,” Mikael recalls in his broad Broendby English.

“One of my friends worked at the Australian Embassy and I asked him to hook me up with some beautiful girls. So he booked a table for us at the Australian Annual Ball at Intercontinental. It must have been the summer of 1996.”

It turned out, that Ratana was not the beautiful woman, that his friend had in mind.

“I was just invited to fill up the table,” Khun Ratana laughs.

Ratana had come back to Thailand as part of the Thai government’s efforts at that time to ask well educated Thais abroad to come home and work a few years for their country. “Reversing the brain drain” was the buzz word.

“I had been abroad for a long time then. I was only sixteen when I moved to study in the US. Since then, I had only briefly been back to take my Bachelor degree at Thammasat University. And after that I had moved to Canada and went further with my studies at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver.”

At the time of the “brain drain” campaign, Khun Ratana was working as head of a large language education and training project at the Toronto Board of Education in Ontario, Canada. That was when she was approached by the Vice Rector at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce at the time who asked her if she would teach a graduate course..

“They liked it and so I was asked to teach one more course,” she says.

“But since graduate degree programs at the Department I was teaching were all held in the evening, I started to look for something to do in the daytime. That was how I got to be the manager of the newly established International Education Center at the Australian Embassy.

One day, my colleague asked me if I would join the Australian National Ball...”

The romantic stalker At this point, Mikael’s recollection of what happened that time and what Ratana’s recalls are slightly different. Ratana remembers that Mikael

flirted heavily with all the girls at the table the whole night through. Mikael insists that from the moment that Ratana arrived and sat down next to him, he completely ignored the one he was supposed to meet and only had eyes for Ratana.

However, they both agree what followed next. Mikael kept calling her all the time at the Australian Embassy and tried to invite her out.

“Finally, I polished my big chopper and put on dark sunglasses and drove over and invited her out for a ride. I was simply irresistible,” Mikael recalls.

“I was a bit persistent, maybe you could say I was exploring this thin borderline between stalking and courting...” Mikael suggests.

Here is Ratana’s version: “Well, I told my colleagues that if this Danish playboy diplomat ever called again, “Tell him I’m not in!””.

“But then eventually I thought, “OK, I will marry him. At least that will make him stop calling me!”

Ratana finishes off the romantic tale, proving that Mikael is certainly not the only one who has a well developed sense of humour.

Moving to Denmark Following Mikael to Denmark was, however not an easy decision.

“Initially, I just took leave of absence from my job in Toronto. It was a difficult decision. I felt I was achieving something there,” she says.

“In Denmark I started in a job at Vejdirektoratet - the Danish Highway Department - in their international education department. Later I moved to work with Carl Bro.” That turned out to be a wise decision. When Mikael was posted to Vietnam in 2001 to 2005 as Deputy Head of Mission at the Danish Embassy in Hanoi, Ratana managed to get posted there herself for Carl Bro as a HRD consultant in the water sector.

“It was a good time for both of us,” she says.

Back in Denmark Khun Ratana continued working at Carl Bro for two years. Then she moved to work with another consulting company, Consia to develop their international educational and HRD program.

“I like Denmark. I like the flat organizations, the efficiency of the workplace. You get to do a lot. And

I love bicycling in Denmark. Mikael forced me and eventually I gave in.

Now I wonder why it took him so long to push me to try it.”

Looking for a job In 2008, when Mikael was appointed Danish Ambassador to Iraq, Ratana kept her position at Consia. But now that they have moved to Bangkok she has left the company and will start in a new job as Country Director for an American based NGO in Thailand on 1 February 2011.

“This NGO advocates Road Safety. Thailand needs this and I believe I can contribute something important here,” she says.

“But it will only be half time. As for my other job as the Ambassador’s wife, I have already promised to continue the commitment with the Red Cross Bazaar, which has somehow become a tradition for the Danish Ambassadors wife to be involved with.”

“Apart from that, I am looking forward to meet my friends again.

And being back with my Mum is also wonderful. She is so happy that we are here; she loves Mikael,” Khun Ratana says

The good Ambassador As the Ambassador of Denmark to Thailand, Mikael H. Winther has plans of his own.

“I belong in the Ministry to a generation of ambassadors who see ourselves very much as managers.

An ambassador has two different roles. One is the traditional role to represent Denmark. The other is to be managers of the people that we work with at the station. Good management is something we emphasize a lot,” he explains “My vision is to be a good representative for Denmark in Thailand.

The strong historical relationship that Denmark has with Thailand is a heavy burden to lift, but to fill in that role, to be that person, is important to me,” the Ambassador explains.

“But the other areas that we work with at the embassy, the consular work and the commercial work, is not less important,” he quickly adds.

“I want to be the ambassador for all these areas - not just the one with the high ranking contacts but also the ambassador who looks af-

ter the people here and who work with the business community. I look very much forward to participating in the activities of Dancham and I hope to visit many of the Danish companies here.”

“I want to increase the positive image of Denmark and the image of the embassy.”

Leader of the band In his private life, he expects to continue being a rock musician, something that he has managed to do in all his previous postings.

“My electric guitars will arrive in February along with my brand new motorcycle, a Honda 700 Trans Alp,” he explains.

In Hanoi, Mikael formed a band with some colleagues from the other embassies and played in all the major clubs in front of quite big crowds.

“We even wrote our own songs there,” Mikael adds.

“In Baghdad I also formed a full scale rock band and we played several places. I also started doing some acoustic guitar there with a female singer,” he adds and attracts a watchful eye from Ratana.

“I have noticed that there is a piano here in the residence that I am looking forward to start playing.

It needs some tuning, but piano was actually the first instrument I learned to play,” he says.

And there is more to the human side of the new boss: “To me, sitting in a small Soi enjoying a bowl of Guidio nam, sen lek, with look chin (a noodle soup with thin noodles and fish balls) that is close to the essence of Bangkok.

We also love going up country to visit friends.”

But being humble does not mean he and his wife are neo-Puritanics.

“Don’t get it wrong... We certainly know how to enjoy luxury too! Oh yes!” he laughs, then adding on a more reflective note: “...but I never take it for granted.

Like being posted here. You know, sometimes I wake up in the morning and I listen to the birds and then suddenly I feel deeply happy and thankful just for being alive in this wonderful place and in this wonderful job.”

February 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 13

“I Am Happy Every Everybody wants happiness, but most try too hard to pursue something complicated when the goal is actually quite simple.

On a journey of inspiration, Norwegian Jonas Rosenberg experienced the transition from regular to special. An English meditation course in Prathum Thanee was the trigger.

By Warangkana Tempati Photos courtesy of DMC Channel

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oming to Thailand with an interest in meditation, Jonas Rosenberg from Fredrikstad in Norway ended up finding just what he was searching for. Now he can, with surprise, look back at the period that transformed him from a regular Norwegian to a ordained monk maintaining a strict routine of deep daily meditation. ”Often, all I see is darkness, which is ok. Sometimes, when I can go deeper, and I see a white bright light flashing at my center. The amazing thing is not so much seeing the light, but more a deepening feeling of happiness and calmness that I have never experienced anywhere else,” the 22 year old Jonas Rosenberg says.

“On my very good days, I can still my mind longer than usual and see a soft white light pouring out of my center and quickly expanding to cover my whole body. At these moments, I feel profoundly peaceful and ecstatic. Suddenly, the world seems more beautiful despite everything else in my life being the same. It is amazing how something as simple and cost-free as closing your eyes softly and relaxing your mind can give you such wonderful feelings.”

14 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

The search for something...

The story starts in the middle of 2010, when Jonas Rosenberg decided to visit Thailand for a longer stay. Here is the story of the young, Scandinavian monk. ”Sometimes destiny can surprise us and take us in a different direction of life. One we had never thought of. I am a Norwegian who, until October this year, never in my entire life of 22 years ever thought of becoming a monk. Growing up in a non-Buddhist family and in a country where Buddhists account for less than one percent of the whole population, I was surprised that the decision came to me easily and rather naturally.”

“Before I came to Thailand, I was interested in learning about meditation because I had read that it could help one relax the mind and improve brainpower. At my home in Fredrikstad, I tried a few meditation techniques. Although I did gain a bit inner peace, I never felt anything more than that. Deep down, I felt there had to be something about the meditation that I had yet to discover.”

From thought to action ”In July 2010, I decided to take a long trip to Thailand. During the

trip, I signed up to join an English meditation course in the Prathum Thanee province. At the beginning, I couldn’t sit for more than 10 minutes without changing the position.

The mentors are Western monks who speak fluent Thai and are very understanding of new students from the West. They answered me every question and every doubt I had about meditation.”

“As I continued to follow their advice, I was able to let go of thoughts, worries and problems faster and more easily. After days into the program, I found myself meditating blissfully instead of constantly looking at the watch. I simply focused my mind on the center of my body and silently observed whatever there was to see - without any thoughts.”

“Later, I learned about an international ordination program and decided to give it a try. My feelings and intuition told me that I was doing the right thing for myself. The one-month program began with a two-week training to help people familiarize themselves with the life of a monk and how to behave. During these two weeks, I wore simple white outfits and observed the Eight Precepts which includes, among other things, not taking meals af-

Day” ter midday. I had to memorize Pali verses for requesting ordination. It was not easy, but I thought, since hundreds of foreigners had done it before, there is no reason why I shouldn’t be able to.”

All suited up ”Finally, the big day came. I was touched to see many Thais come to this holy ceremony to express support and rejoice in the ordination of all these foreigners they didn’t even know. At the strike of a temple bell, I walked in a file along with other white-clothed ordination seekers.

At the next bell strike, I sat down before an elderly supporter who was sitting in a row along with other well-wishers. As she handed me a set of orange saffron robes, my heart swelled. I almost cried out of joy as I slowly marched back, carrying the saffron robes in my arms.”

“After that all of us ordination seekers changed into the monk’s uniform. I thought I would feel strange wearing the robes for the first time, but when it actually happened, it felt surprisingly natural. I was delighted and proud. Two days later, we all travelled to a meditation village up on top of a mountain in Chiang Mai. The place was perfect for meditation. The air was fresh, clean and cool. There was a botanical garden, lots of trees and a pond.

At the end of the program, some disrobed and returned to their countries. Others, such as myself, decided to stay on as monks.”

Feeling of happiness ”While I cannot say how long I will remain in the saffron robes, I can

certainly say that I feel happy every day. I wake up at 4.30 a.m. and join other monks in the morning chanting and meditation session. After that we walk into a village for an alms round. It’s touching to see villagers getting up early to cook and offer meals to you.”

“After breakfast, we do some cleaning to keep the place nice and clean. In the afternoon, I either study Thai, Dhamma lessons or meditation. At night, I do evening chanting and I meditate more. My life has never been simpler; yet, I have never felt happier.”

“The happiness I’ve found in

meditation is greater than the joy of winning a football match or receiving a certificate on my graduation day. Best of all, it doesn’t hinge on some special events happening or some problems disappearing from my life.”

“It is ironic that everybody wants happiness, but many pursue it in a complicated or unhealthy way and end up feeling stressed and exhausted. For me, happiness is as uncomplicated as closing my eyes, quieting my mind and doing absolutely nothing. After all, life is too short to be unhappy.”

“Suddenly the world seemed

Guan Gong

more beautiful despite everything else in my life being the same,” Jonas Rosenberg.

The next international ordination program starts in February. For more information, please write to english@ ordinationthai.org or visit www.ordinationthai.org or call (083) 922-1199 or (087) 771-7639.

For Sale

Gold plated Silver Filigree 42 cm high, 640 g Sterling Silver, semi precious stones.

Made in a limited quantity by Mr. Tian Ruihe for Beijing Jewellery Branch of the China National Arts & Crafts Import & Export Corporation.

Price: MYR 20.000 + package and transport Contact: Bo Jeansson 012-339 5289 bo.jeansson@spray.se

February 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 15

New Executive Director for the Finnish Chamber

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Chumsri Sikaman, the new Executive Director of the Thai Finnish Chamber of Commerce, will focus on increasing the number of members and thereby improving the Chambers financial situation too.

hun Chumsri Sikaman told me several times over the phone: ”I don’t think it’s a good idea writing about me. It’s much better if you write about the President of the Thai Finnish Chamber of Commerce. He is doing a fantastic job for the organization.”

But I insisted. Khun Chumsri had just been appointed as the new Executive Director of Thai Finnish Chamber of Commerce. And prior to this exciting new job, she has more than 25 years of experience working with Finns and Finnish companies - that is in itself something to write home about!

But not according to Khun Chumsri.

No reason to write about her...

By Bjarne Wildau

Japanese and French Khun Chumsri Sikaman started her professional career by teaching elementary Japanese and French. At the same time she worked for the TISCO bank (now Thai Investments and Securities.) She worked in several positions at Tisco for more than seven years.

“One of my best friends at Tisco had the Swedish Embassy as her costumer. One day she told me that she had heard from the Swedish Embassy that there was a vacant job at the new Finnish Embassy in Bangkok. It was all very new, the Ambassador had just arrived a short time before.”

“They were looking for an executive secretary and assistant to the Commercial Counselor, and I got the job,” Khun Chumsri recalls with a smile.

The Finns obvious liked the hardworking single Thai lady. She was at the office when her bosses arrived in

the morning and she was still working hard when they left.

“After two years I became a commercial officer”.

Finns good at staff management The big Finnish companies started responding to the hard work of the Finnish Embassy. The Finns were happy with Khun Chumsri and she enjoyed working with the Finns.

“It didn’t take long before I realized how good the Finnish people are with staff management,” Khun Chumsri says with her voice wrapped in respect.

“Until I got the job at the Finnish Embassy I had mainly worked for Thais. This was something different.

Most Finns are not aggressive, they are gentle and understanding towards their staff.”

“They look at their staff as equals.

There is no class society built into the organization. And they let you do your work your way. You better be ready with your task in time but nobody will interfere all the time. They will let you handle your job as long as you take good care of it,” Chumsri explains.

A fantastic time “The delegations from Finland kept coming and coming, and I had to handle whatever needed to make their visits successful. The delegations were always headed by the responsible minister and the business people were from the very top of the Finnish business society. Even the world famous Finnish Premier Minister Martti Ahtisaari led a delegation where I was involved. It was a fantastic time,” Khun Chumsri recalls.

And the years went on. The Thai professional never got married the traditional way. She lived with her family and she had sort of married her career.

When eventually she resigned her job at the Embassy is was as not really to leave – it was part of the restructuring of the Commercial Department at the Finnish Embassy in 2009.

Left with Finnpro Finpro, the commercial arm of the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs then decided to let a private company, Netpoint SEA, take care of Finpro.

“I went with Finpro to Netpoint as a senior consultant. My work there was OK and everything was fine.

But when I realized that the position as Executive Director of Thai

16 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

Finnish Chamber of Commerce was becoming vacant, I was in absolutely no doubt that this was a job for me,” Chumsri says.

Now almost three months later the new Executive Director has a more clear idea about what a huge a challenge it will be for her to push the Chamber forward.

“First of all, we need more members,” she says.

“We have 15 private members and 70 cooperate members. It’s not enough for many reasons. If we talk about events and our member’s benefits from these events and from being members, we need more participation. We also need more members to secure the economy of the Chamber,” she ads.

40 Finnish companies in Thailand Some 40 Finnish companies have invested in Thailand. Part of the Finnish members of the Chamber come from these companies. Another part of the members are Thai business people interested in Finland.

“When Finnish people join the Chamber events they do it mostly for the social part of it. They meet other Finnish friends. They want to have a nice time. But the Thai people joins for a different reason. The join the Thai Finnish Chamber of Commerce for business,” Chumsri explains.

According to the new Executive Director ‘Field Trips’ could be one way to join the forces at the Thai Finnish Chamber of Commerce.

“At least one time per year we will try to combine the business and the pleasure”.

Another new thing could be annual business trips to Finland.

“We will try if it’s possible to take a group of our members to Finland every year. We have talked with Finnpro about that idea already”.

The humble Finns And here almost at the end of the interview the Executive Director talks about “The Humble Finns”.

“I am so happy working for the Finns. It has, and still is a huge part of my life. But some times it’s a little frustrating that the Finns are so humble.

Too humble as a matter of fact. They are fantastic people with some fantastic products to sell. And they have a fantastic market in Finland as well.

There is no reason to be too humble if you are from Finland,” say Chumsri with love.

The Relaxed Finns in Hua Our first place was too simple. Too many rats.

And when we rented that place we didn’t know how big the interest for our association would be.

But when we exceeded 250 members, we were ready for better facilities.

Pekka in the Finnish Sauna in Hua Hin.

During the two years since the foundation of the Finnish Association in Hua Hin, Finns have been flocking to the association’s activities. More than 300 Finns have secured a membership card and may now enjoy the library, the sauna, the fish soup evenings, the sport events and the regular one or two monthly meetings.

By Bjarne Wildau

T

wo years ago, two good friends had a talk about what they could do for themselves and the other 2,000 Finns who stay two or more months a year in Hua Hin. Pekka Heikkinen told Anssi Ollikkala that he would like to create a Finnish Library. Anssi was not against the library idea, but his first thought was: Why not go all the way and start a fully flexed Finnish Association right away. Then the library and other activities could be added later on?

Some weekends later, Hua Hin had its own Finnish Association, “Hua Hinin Seudun Suomalaiset” The Finns in the Hua Hin area. Now, two years later, the Finnish Association has more than 300 members.

The founding meeting took place on the 11th of January 2009.

Anssi became the President, and Pekka, with the romantic dream of a Finnish library on the other side of the globe, became Vice President.

“We can’t be sure, but it’s our estimate that there are around 50 permanent Finnish citizens in the greater Hua Hin area. Furthermore,

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Hin

Pekka (Vice President, Maeri, Anssi (President) and Ossi (Member of the board) after the Interview with ScandAsia.

we think that there are at least 2,000 Finns who stay more than two months in the Hua Hin area,” Anssi - the President - says.

From Spain and Portugal “Many of our members sold their second home in Portugal or Spain because it became too expensive in the south of Europe. At the same time it became cheaper to fly to a destination like Bangkok,” says Anssi, who expects at least 100 new members per year until they reach 500 members.

In the beginning, the Finnish Association found a very basic location where they could stay. But in September 2010, they moved to new premises.

“Our first place was too simple.

Too many rats. And when we rented that place we didn’t know how big the interest for our association would be. But when we exceeded 250 members, we were ready for better facilities,” says Anssi.

The new Finnish location is now at the Thai Boxing Centre attached to Grand Plaza. Here, the library also located, including a computer with Internet connection.

Just ask for the key “We have our own location with a library and a sauna. The library is open five evenings a week. There’s staff there two hours per evening, but don’t worry if you need to use the library’s computer or borrow some books during the day,” says Pekka Heikkinen.

“People can go to the Thai Boxing Centre and just ask for the key. If you take any books away, please fill out the papers before you leave.”

The Finn has left more than 1,200 books back in Turku.

“Last time I was in Turku, I tried to find out how to get the books down here to Hua Hin where we need them. But I was told that only one cubic meter would cost 3,000 US dollar, so until a small wonder takes place, the books will stay where they are,” Pekka explains.

The Sauna where seats are selling like hot cakes is open only on Saturdays.

Internet makes it easy Thanks to the Internet the Finnish Association’s meetings can take place with short notice.

“Mostly we follow at schedule,

but sometimes we call a meeting the very next day. That’s one of the good things about the Internet and e-mail. It’s so easy to get in contact with our members,” says Anssi Ollikkala.

The annual Golf Match against fellow Finnish players in Pattaya is an event, the Finnish society in Hua Hin is looking forward to many months in advance.

“We managed to beat Pattaya last year. It was fantastic,” Anssi laughs.

He is, however, a bit sad that it is only a small part of the golf players that can take part in the annual match against the Finns in Pattaya.

But then again, the annual golf competition is the only one where only a limited number of players can participate.

Petanque, bowling and hiking are some of the activities where everybody can get involved. The same goes for the Wednesday fish soup, the sauna, the trips to classical music concerts, and the occasional rock concert in Bangkok. www.huahininseudunsuomalaiset.net

February 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 19

Aage Westenholz - the The Danish engineer Aage Westenholz came to Siam in 1885. His greatest legacy is the establishment of the Bangkok Tramway Company in 1893 and the very lucrative Siam Electricity Company in 1898.

By Flemming Winther Nielsen

H

e was in a hurry; the too little portion of dynamite, pyroxilincotton gunpowder and waterproof cables had arrived only the day before and the French gunboats Comete and Inconstante could be expected by the mouth of the river anytime soon. But the 12th and 13th of July in the morning he managed to produce 16 bombs contained in old oil drums. He used a rowing boat and placed them onboard small old barges anchored with intervals across the river from Samut Chedi to Paknam. The drums were connected to four stations from where they could be detonated; he was now onboard one of them -an old lightship, placed very close to the deepest part of the river, only annoyed that the quantum of explosives in each drum was only half of the desired.

The 13th of July, 1893, late afternoon, grey weather but good visibility and no rain, the gunboats broke the barricade. Waiting for them to come as close as possible, Westenholz -cool and composed, detonated the dynamite and cotton-gunpowder in the nearest drums. They exploded very close to Inconstante, shaking the ship and causing much damage but not strong enough to prevent it from sailing slowly on. A cascade of water rose many meters up in the air, for a while covering

both ships. The old Siamese warships behind the barricade were no real match for the French and the cannons of Chulachongklao fortress were not close enough. Late in the evening the gunboats anchored in front of the French Consulate on Charoen Krung Road, Bangkok, within shooting range of The Grand Palace; they were followed by the more or less maneuverable Siamese ships. The plan was that they all combined should ram Comete and Inconstante. Westenholz and his friend Captain Walter Christmas onboard the ‘Coronation’ expected that this would be their last battle and they had a long and open hearted talk. In the last minute King Chulalongkorn wisely forbad further action and send Richelieu to stop the ships. Negotiations at gun point followed and not to have his palace bombed and the country annexed the King had to pay an enormous “compensation”. The Mexican silver dollars were carried onboard by coolies, bag after bag for hours - robbery, pure and simple.

Aage Westenholz was born

Main workshop of the Bangkok Tramway Company which built its own electric powered passenger carriages.

20 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

1859 in a bourgeois family of merchants and landowners, furthermore his father was a former Minister of the Finances. He graduated as Civil Engineer number 409 from The Technical University (Polytechnic High School) in Copenhagen 1884.

In 1893 he had already established a civilian career in Bangkok, but when the conflict with France was imminent, he, as an expert, volunteered and was enlisted, we find him in ‘the List of Foreigners in the Royal Thai Navy’ for the year 1893, 34 years old and with rank as captain.

Westenholz was also a child of the first industrial revolution, with unquestioned admiration for all technological things new, electricity, new machines, the railroads, the

steamers and a little later automobiles: ‘Modernity’ named. He arrived in Bangkok the 18th December 1885, hired as managing director for a tile works. In the town where all Danes knew each other he soon got acquainted with Commodore Richelieu and people around him, H.N. Andersen especially, they were of three very different backgrounds; the son of a pastor, long dead in The West Indies, the son of a cleaning lady in Nakskov, Denmark and then the son of Danish high Society –the sparks soon flew.

From King Chulalongkorn’s own hand Richelieu the 5th of May 1887 got a concession to establish and run a tramway line in Bangkok. A limited company was established;

First Expert Aage Westenholz with his wife Ellen.

The car is of the brand Enna which was powered by electricity. Indeed a man ahead of his time.

Launch / barkasse.

A very typical European steel steamship from around year 1900.

Today it is hote l owned, but it might have belonged to Wesrenholz’ fleet in the ‘Maenam Motorboat Company’ that he founded in 1906. the King bought shares and for a period of time held 50%, Richelieu and H.N. Andersen also held substantial portions of the shares.

Richelieu functioned as Chairman of the Board and he appointed Westenholz as engineer and soon thereafter managing director of the line, first six, then nine, then eighteen kilometers, running along Charoen Krung Road; later one more line was built. In a very short while the tramway became a great success, very profitable and the ponies had to work hard.

On Westenholz’s initiative and with his expertise the tramway was electrified in 1893, the tramcars then drove much faster and more and more accidents occurred, it added to the casualties that the Siamese believed to be a blessing if their shadows were run over by a tramcar. The company was under British jurisdiction and had, according to British practice, to pay high compensation to the victims and or their families. Then the company registration was changed to Denmark where compensation was in general lower. It became cheaper to run over the Siamese, but with so many casualties in the narrow streets the situation was untenable, and in 1895 a rift occurred among the members of the board where Westenholz wanted to drive fast for profit reasons and defied the recommendations of the board to

slow down.

“According to Richelieu, Westenholz declared that it didn’t matter much if pedestrians were sometimes run over, if, by driving fast, one could save so and so many minutes of each passengers life!” (Kaarsted, Tage: 1991, p. 50, my translation).

This view of course tells us about Aage Westenholz as a person, but also about that historical period.

The same argument could easily be heard from his great American contemporaries, a Vanderbilt, Carnegie or Henry Ford.

After the dispute Westenholz left the tramways in 1895, but when Richelieu in 1898 obtained the concession for establishing ‘The Siam Electric (or Electricity) Company’ with a fifty years monopoly on delivering electricity to Siam, he was called back as manager, then Managing Director when Richelieu left Siam in 1902. The company was registered in Demark with Isaac Glueckstadt, Landmandsbanken, as Chairman of the Board. Westenholz was also the only Dane in Siam with the knowledge and capacity to run the fast growing business.

The tramway became a part of Siam Electric Company and in for example 1907 the trams travelled no less than 1.764.000 miles – stuffed with passengers.

From 1902 it shows that the extended circle of wealthy and influential people in and around the

Westenholz family took over more and more shares and before he left Siam in 1910 a family group controlled the highly profitable company, in 1907 a profit of 1.5 million Danish Crowns was generated from the two businesses.

Furthermore he founded ‘Maenam Motorboat Company’ in 1906.

At that time local Siamese ferries sailed across the river from pier to pier, but it was Westenholz contribution to the infrastructure to start sailing up and down the Chaopraya, from Nonthaburi to south of Klong Toey and also alomg the major canals for example the Bang Kapi waterway. In 1908 the fleet consisted of 10 motor boats and 2 steam launches (barkasses), their schedules were laid in correspondence with those of the tramlines. Also this enterprise was a success and earned him goodwill. The company operated until 1940 where it came to a standstill because of the war, but nowadays speedy express passenger boats are again plowing the waters.

Finally he gave his knowledge about Siam and his technical skills to the Danish engineering companies who founded the later majestic Siam Cement Co. in 1913.

In Danish books and articles about the ‘nation building’ period in Siam and the Danish contribution, Aage Westenholz and his work is overshadowed by the more illus-

trious stories of the selfmade men, Admiral Andreas Richelieu and H. N. Andersen. In Thai academic writing that is not the case, here his work is much recognized; that goes for Siam Electric Company, the ever expanding tramways, Maenam Motorboat Co. Where especially Richelieu got the concessions and contributed to the founding of the projects, the Civil Engineer with his expertise, dogged and stable work ethics, through the years, had a lasting effect on the country and of that he is credited.

Aage Westenholz returned to Denmark with his wife and four children in 1910, he built the Manor House Magleaas overlooking Sjaelsoe in North Zealand for the family. He kept some of his interests in Siam for a while, but ‘Siam Electric Company’ was sold to a Belgian group in 1913. Westenholz owned plantations in Malaysia, under the company name: ‘United Plantations Ltd’ Berhad. Karen Blixens farm in Kenya was a part of United Plantations. The company, and thereby Aage Westenholz, her uncle, paid the deficits for many years, until the world crisis in the 1930s made this impossible.

Finally Westenholz financed a private defense corps in Denmark named after him, it was armed with machine guns; one corps was sent to Estonia after the Russian revolution, but that is quite another story.

February 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 21

Warm Hearts at Danish Physiotherapy Centre Søren Andersen’s patients travel half way around the world to enjoy his physiotherapy treatments and rehabilitation at Rehab Scandinavia in Pattaya. Upon arrival, the Danish medical doctor’s big warm hug makes the first difference.

By Bjarne Wildau

Søren Andersen shows one of the Thai assistants how to train Esa by opening and closing his hand. Esa’s left side is paralyzed after a stroke.

I

t’s a Wednesday morning. At Rehab Scandinavia in Pattaya, Thailand, two Swedish clients and their helpers are on their way from the airport and are expected any minute now..

“They are here!”, a helper shouts.

Søren Andersen rushes down the stairs to meet his new clients.

The helpers from Sweden are already out of the minibus and while they prepare the wheel chairs.

Søren greets the two handicapped Swede trough the side door.

This is a moment of joy for all.

Søren Andersen founded Rehab Scandinavia in Pattaya, Thailand, 18 months ago. Since then it’s been a tough ride with more downs than ups. But that is all history.

With the arrival of the two Swedes this morning, Rehab Scandinavia is now for the first time fully booked for three months. And when they leave in the spring, half of the six available rooms are already pre-booked. Rehab Scandinavia is finally moving forward safely and smoothly.

A huge hug The first Swedish client, Kåre Carlson, is already down the access ramp of the minibus and Søren gives him a huge hug. They know each other well already, because Kåre celebrated his 60 years birthday last year at Rehab Scandinavia.

The rookie of the day, Esa is next and gets a warm hug too. Esa, who wants to keep his family name to himself, had a stroke some years

a go. Exactly like the doctor, Søren Andersen, who is responsible for his rehabilitation program during the stay.

Søren’s stroke happened in 2000 and was stress related. After rehabilitation he got another stroke, and later again he was struck by the first epileptic seizure and fractured his hip, legs, and shoulders. But there is a hidden benefit in that. Not many doctors know from personal experience how it feels to be confined to a wheelchair.

Inside Rehab Scandinavia, Kåre needs first of all a shot of insulin after the long ride from Stockholm over Doha to Thailand. His Bosnian Swedish helper starts the process and Søren calls over two of his staff to see and learn so that they can take over from the helper when she returns to Sweden after a short week in Pattaya.

Strong family ties In the kitchen the breakfast is now ready. Here we meet Norwegian Olaf (not his real name). Olaf is in his mid thirties and from Oslo and for for the past year he has become more or less a permanent resident at Rehab Scandinavia Olaf moved to Rehab Scandinavia from a similar Norwegian owned institution in Pattaya, and the Danish doctor and Olaf, plus his family in Norway, has within short time developed a very close and warm relationship sharing family anniversaries.

“Olaf’s father has already booked tickets so they can cel-

22 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

ebrate Christmas together with us.

In this case you can say that not only did the patient get a better life - the same actually happened for his family,” Søren notes. ”Especially the elderly father feels much more relaxed now that he knows that his handicapped son lives in a place where he likes to stay,” Søren says.

Briefing by the pool side Less than one hour after the arrival of the two Swedes, their luggage is in their rooms and we find them enjoying themselves at the pool A crane is ready to bring them gently into the water for training.

But first, it’s time for Søren to brief the local Thai helpers on the medical situation of the two new arrivals and what the treatment should focus on for the next three months.

“Left arm no good. Left leg no good,” the Danish Doctor says to a Thai helper, while he touches Esa´s left arm. The Danish doctor speaks excellent English but using simple sentences makes it easier for the Thai helpers to understand his briefing.

“Every time you sit and talk with Esa, you take his hand, and open it, stretch his fingers, open and close.

OK? After one month, Esa can open his hand by him self,” Sørens explains.

The helper smiles and nods affirmatively. Esa smiles too. The alliance between Esa and his new Thai helper is succesfully established.

Clients are Kings Søren Andersen explains how Rehab Scandinavia is based on the respect for the individual personality of his patients. The place is for them.

There are rules, but mostly for the more than 20 staff.

“I run the place here in a Danish way. We are here for our guests.

And we see it as our pleasure and duty to make a difference in the life of our client,” he says.

“Most of our clients here are men and many of them live quite isolated lives in Scandinavia,” he adds touching upon the sensitive subject of the clients’ private life.

“Prostitution is not allowed in Thailand, but it’s not illegal to have a girlfriend. Let me say it this way, our mini van has no prejudices or morals. If a client asks for it, our driver will bring the client anywhere they want and for what ever purposes as long as it is legal in Thailand.”

“And they can rest assured that they have full moral support and sympathy from me, my son Jacob and our local helpers,” he emphasizes.

“The clients we have had so far have all been very happy and made huge progress,” the Danish former surgeon says. ”There have just been too few,” he adds, suggesting that more Scandinavian municipalities and medical institutions should consider the benefits of refering more patients to be treated in Thailand instead of back in Scandinavia.

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The Thai-Swedish Versi

If you go to Krabi down in the south of Thailand you might run into quite a special family.

With Swedish Åke Läckgren as the patriarch, this minisociety consists of him, his wife and their 14 children.

I repeat: Fourteen children.

By Søren Lykke Bülow

“I

f I am to describe us in short terms, well... Do you remember ‘The Kelly Family’?”

- Yes, I do.

“You might call us the ThaiSwedish version of them.”

One could also say that if you missed the German ‘90’s sensation ‘The Kelly Family’ *) you can meet them right here in Krabi in the South if Thailand. Åke Läckgren is smiling. He has quite some story to tell about his life. Brought up by hippie parents, he later turned to Christianity, now being a Christian missionary. And he has 14 children, 12 of them with his Thai wife. They used to live in Sweden. Now, for the past 10 years, they have been living in Thailand.

And they enjoy it.

“It’s so much fun to live in Thailand. And with this family, it’s a bit like living on a different planet,” Åke says about his world in Krabi.

A miniature society *) The Kelly Family was a music group consisting of several generations of the Kelly family headed by Daniel Kelly Sr., who played a repertoire of rock, pop and folk music. They enjoyed considerable success in Europe with their unique gypsy image and a vagabonding lifestyle, travelling around Europe in a double-decker bus and houseboat. Their image was enhanced by their eclectic and often home-made clothing and the very long hair worn by both male and female members of the band.

In this huge house, Åke, 63, and his wife currently live with just six of their children. At one point, they had 12 of them living here, but the oldest are so grown-up now that they no longer need to be staying with their parents.

The oldest “child” is now 35, while the ones living at home are between three and 19 years old.

And the family almost works as a miniature society.

In the day, the house is trans-

24 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

formed into a home school. Åke is originally a teacher and he uses much of his day teaching his children, although he is in fact retired.

Everyone speaks English, and some speak Thai, while some also speak Swedish. Åke tries to bring his kids up in a Christian belief, although he states that it is very important they get to make a choice themselves.

“For me, it’s important to get the bible into the picture, but it’s just as important to give them an evolutionary education. At some point, they have to chose what they want to believe in. But until that time comes, I think they have to learn a lot about life,” Åke says.

A crowd of 14 Many might think of 14 kids as a burden. But if you move to Thailand, there are some advantages, too.

“Like winter clothes - we don’t need winter clothes here,” Åke laughs.

“Easy-living is one of the keywords in this connection. Besides, one of kids met the wrong kind of people and got into some trouble.

We thought a fresh start would be good, and we chose to move back to my wife’s home country,” he says. Åke emphazises that they probably would not be able to live the same way if they were in Sweden.

Their style is ‘typical Thai’.

“People respect our way of living. We are well-known here i Krabi and we have many friends. We do our things in our own style and I don’t know if that would be possible

anymore in Sweden.”

But he knows that there are some disadvantages with living in Thailand too.

“The kids are very creative and some of them are very smart. If they want to take a special musical education or get an above-level education we cannot really provide that.

Maybe they could go to Bangkok, but it would be more obvious to go to Sweden. I think there are more opportunities in that respect in for instance Göteborg where we lived before,” he says.

The art of creativity The house in Krabi is vibrant with creativity. There are musical instruments everywhere, and around the place you will see different kinds of art made by the family.

Everyday life in the Läckgren Family is build on a basic schedule.

The school is important for Åke, but that also goes for the rest of the elements that in his opinion create good people.

“The kids also help with doing the cooking, the cleaning, the laundry. They do everything because that is also a part of their training,” Åke says.

In the middle of the day, there is a break. Like a recess, where the kids can use their computers or what they want to spent their time with.

“And then in the evening we have extra curriculum stuff like music, exercise and art. Some of them love to do art, they actually even sell

ion of ‘The Kelly Family’ these,” Åke says while finding one of the children’s many self-designed and painted dragons made from toilet paper.

“They love to do these things.

One of the boys likes to use the computer. Not for games, but for art. They know that they’re only allowed to play video games in the weekends,” he says.

“Otherwise they would be playing games all the time, and that’s not part of my philosophy. These kids have a very good internal networking spirit, and they supplement each other in a very good way,” he says.

Economic get-together Having a big house, many children, and being retired might not seem as the most economical way of living.

But this family works quite differently from what you usually see.

“We get our money from doing work together. We go around as ‘The Family Krabi’ and play concerts and do voluntary work at different locations. Sometimes we go around at Christmas time to get people in a happy mood. This way we make some money,” he says with yet another picture of the family being like ‘The Kelly Family’ - one big family playing music and working together.

In the Läckgren Family, everyone chips in to make the economy go around.

Recently, three of the older kids living at home joined the set at the Swedish version of ‘Survivor’ - or Robinson Ekspeditionen - where they helped out as runners.

“They had some great experiences, and some of the money they received was used for our life together here,” Åke says.

Easy-living is one of the keywords in this connection.

mature and meet other people and become a group of better people themselves.

“I have to sacrifice some things.

I mean, I don’t have much time for myself, but then again, what parents really have that? At least they shouldn’t have too much time, because it is such an important part of your maturation. So to me, it has been very good training to have a lot of kids,” he says seeming to have absolutely no stress from having had kids for 35 years.

Few internal needs There is one thing, though, that Åke would like to do. All by himself. He thinks of writing his memoirs for people to read about his life in different countries, with different beliefs, and now with his 14th kid, who is only three years old, at the age of 63.

“But I don’t really have the time.

There’s just too much going on. But well. We would also like to make a professional recording of some of our music some day, maybe up in

Bangkok, but time will show when that period will be upon us,” he says.

So for Åke it is very important to give and - as he says it - train his kids in way that make them individual, independent, and strong people.

“They get this kind of youth that in my opinion increases their creativity and makes them accepting the way the world goes around without being too compelled by superficial approaches to ways of living,” he says.

Felt like a selfish person When Åke was still young, he was not a very religious person. As he says, he thinks that he was brought up in a selfish way, which for him is quite common for the regular Scandinavian.

“I was just a selfish Scandinavian.

I think I have been trained very selfishly, and the kids have made me change. I wouldn’t have been the one I am without having kids. So it helps. I am who I am,” he says.

“I think it’s a big plus to have such a big family. I’m a believing guy, so I see it as a big plus because I can see God supply me. If I didn’t have the kids - that supply would never be here.” Åke also sees the missionary work the family does as a way to February 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 25

Skipper Niels Shares Sail I think most people who come really for sailing they don’t really want to party but it’s more the sponsors who want to party cause they get something out of it there

Danish Skipper Niels Degenkolw is the right person to consult about everything regarding sailing in Thailand.

By Joakim Persson

D

anish Skipper Niels Degenkolw shrugs his shoulders when reading this dramatic report from the last race day of the 2010 Six Senses Phuket Raceweek:

Niels cancelled to race his own boat, Phoenix, during this regatta.

He was not able to find enough qualified crew. And with untrained sailors on board you often end up with damages to the boat, he says.

boats end up together that should not be racing against each other; big boats ending up with small boats etc.

“You have to live with that here.”

Qualified sailors welcome

‘An enormous storm descended on Phuket bringing with it 30 to 35 knot gusts and lashing rain… descended over the race course and all hell broke loose in torrential rain and zero visibility.’ ‘… Boats had already taken deep reefs in their mainsails and were carrying small head sails but the boats that couldn’t were completely overpowered and out of control on the race course.… brand new Phuket 8 Surf Patrol was the first casualty when the boat almost capsized in over 30 knots and in doing so, lost two crew members.’

‘Dismasted near the start line… they were attempting to sort out the mess of rigging and sails dragging in the water on their port side…’

Niels Degenkolw welcomes qualified sailors to join him on his boat in the many regattas taking place around Phuket and the Andaman Sea. However, only the experienced sailors need apply. He takes the competition side of these leisure events seriously and is not in favour of too much partying each night of the races.

“The combination does not work very well. We’ve had problems before where I had to speak very harshly to crew members.

They can party on the last day or in some regattas you have a lay day, so they can drink the day before lay day.”

“I think most people who come really for sailing they don’t really want to party but it’s more the sponsors who want to party cause they get something out of it there,” he adds.

Another issue with the regattas is when there are sometimes not enough boats in a race class and

As for sailing around Phuket it is not much to write home to Scandinavia about, thinks Niels Degenkolw. And with his strong track record sailing sailing in Phang Nga bay and the Andaman Sea, he is definitely the right person to talk to.

“Not in terms of wind which always shifts during high season due to high pressure over Mongolia. If the high pressure is very high there we have more wind here.”

“In a day there is very little wind; if one wants to sail here come in low season May to July, when you’ll get days with rain but with much greater chances of wind. The islands are fantastic and anchorage is very good.”

There is actually a guide book available showing all the anchorages and which one is good for the night in high and low season, says Niels who has more knowledge about sailing than most people.

With Phoenix he has attended regattas during the past four years after having found the boat in Ma-

In his opinion, the mess was not due to the weather - these kinds of conditions are by no means unusual in the West - it was because the boats had inexperienced crews onboard.

It was for this very reason that 26 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

Not much to write home about

ling Insights from Phuket laysia and doing needed refurbishing.

Among them he thinks the Samui Regatta is good and that Raja Muda in Malaysia is well organised: “you have only one night on anchor while the other nights are in a marina.”

long Farr on which his skilled crew of craftsmen painstakingly replaced a couple of million baht’s worth of teak, in addition to other refits.

Going ashore

Exciting odyssey

When meeting Niels Degenkolw, any sailing enthusiast will be thrilled to hear him recall his exciting odyssey on the seven seas. He left Denmark in 1993 on his First Vision, wanting to sail around the world. This boat was designed and also sailed by no other than Paul Elvstrøm – the legendary Danish Olympic sailor – initially winning all the regattas in Scandinavia with him as skipper.

Niels has not returned since and after lengthy sailing journeys and stays on various places around the world (including Brazil, Haiti, Trinidad-Tobago etc.) he arrived to Phuket in late 1999 with his then Brazilian lady and decided to stay on.

Before then he had built boats back in Denmark, working for Elvstrøm among others and in col-

laboration with shipyards in Poland.

The plan was to stay only two months in Thailand but there was no wind to continue the journey and having all the time in the world he decided to stay (though the Brazilian eventually returned home) and has been here ever since, except shorter trips to Malaysia.

Initially he successfully started doing charter for a few years on his own boat, getting a lot of Danish

clients through a charter company.

Following on that he started Vision Yacht which he still runs today doing repairs on bigger yachts and mega yachts.

“Meanwhile I raced as skipper.

I had a lifestyle that was extremely good. I could go sailing all the regattas and my staff looked after work when I was away.”

His latest assignment was an extensive renovation of a 72 feet

Having no intention to leave Phuket, at 65, his life is about to change in one aspect though. Having acquired some land overlooking Phang Nga bay he intends to build a house for himself.

“I think it’s time to change my lifestyle. I will still race by keeping the small boat. I still like the racing and as long as I can I will continue.

One gets older… but it’s very difficult to get off because I lived on board First Vison for 24 years. It’s a big part of my life.”

The design of his forthcoming house will have a marine theme though, shaped as a boat, so he will still feel like if staying on the water.

February 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 27

© www.babaphuket.com

PHUKET ScandAsia gives you our updated, biased, picture of what Phuket has to offer in 2011 - which brings a very mixed bag with lots of development and new things, including many fabulous lifestyle attractions. And we pick some of the fruits…

By Joakim Persson

28 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

A

nd the truth is that a new (some would call it partly overdeveloped) Phuket is emerging with a dramatic increase in commercial development. Thailand’s number one island destination has been seeing a surge in new hotels opening during recent years, which is not stopping any time soon. With these added tourists can shop around among a wealth of new and exciting accommodation options.

While all the traditional landmark beaches are still there, their respective landscape is transforming.

Phuket is also seeing “new” beaches competing for the island visitors’ attention. And, definitely, Phuket is being adorned with much more exciting activities and venues. Thus there are more hidden gems than before for those who opt to look off the beaten track.

Many new hotels indeed still open on the established west coast but as land is getting scarce one can now also find new, superb seclusion in more untouched, pristine areas. And do note that some beach stretches are also part of natural parks and therefore worth a visit for more solitude.

The selection has grown especially within the four-star and mid range segments but several five-star brands have opened up in new areas, such as on Siray island outside Phuket town and towards Cape Panwa, overlooking the island or Phang Nga bay. The number of splendid places to stay keeps growing where the needs of the modern traveller are addressed.

No doubt, there are now also hillside and cliff pool villa resorts that can compete internationally on luxury, design, amenities, ocean views and price on par with the

© catchbeachclub.com

© www.capesienna.com

Raising the Bar and Expanding the Choices

most sought-out such properties in the world. There used to be only a few but recent additions like Andara Resort & Villas, Paresa Resort Phuket and The Pavilions Phuket have come on board to further the frontier of luxury on the island.

Such resorts, along with the luxury residencies on the hills of Surin and within the ‘Millionaire’s Mile’ along the Cape south of Kamala, plus an increasing number of mega yachts, subscribe to what the more affluent Phuket fans want the island turning into: a ‘World Class Destination’. However the many unchanged Thai communities naturally prevent such a development from taking over, as the downturn in the world economy also has slowed down such ambitions. And the island still has something for everyone; it’s just that there is more sophistication around with real choices for first class leisure. The

panorama ocean view one can have is often well worth a drink and a fine dinner must not cost the earth here.

As for keeping traditions Phuket Town is probably the most intact place on the island with its laidback charm and intriguing SinoPortuguese/Peranakan culture especially in the Old Town, not to mention excellent dining. The city is a nice excursion, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, also offering great shopping among design and art shops as well as opportunities to discover the region’s unique cuisine.

Meanwhile, Patong is for instance no longer the slower beach resort it used to be ten years ago, but a pulsating city where traffic is congested. It may look very much unchanged along the beach but beyond the palms the development is intense with new hotels and apartment buildings mushroom-

ing. Shopping has also increased here much thanks to the large mall Jungceylon.

Daytime tourists are less visible and not necessarily on the beach.

Because these days the many new lodgings offer larger pools and extensive amenities on the premises making guests lingering more within their hotels. There is even a nightclub with a rooftop pool bar where guests can swim and chill to lounge DJ tunes in the afternoons.

Another growing trend is that more visitors than before are beginning to come here all year round.

However with so many more resorts this influx is easily swallowed and the growing numbers of people around during low season less noticeable. So that is a good period to come!

After dark, Patong turns into a neon-washed pulsating downtown with huge crowds along the streets.

Noteworthy then is that the even the seedy side of this beach resort especially along Bangla road is getting less dominant, making room for more quality venues and other new concepts like a beach club on a city street!

The many beach clubs – 88 East Beach Lounge, Catch Beach Club, Baba Pool Club, and Cape Sienna to mention some of the important ones – is definitely an emerging trend with everything from beach activities and staff service throughout the day to sunset DJ music and BBQ buffets. Sit down on a lounger with a chilled glass of wine, champagne on ice, or a cold beer, with the sound of the sea lapping on the shoreline along with that perfect beach music soundtrack…and you have landed in the right state of mind!

Where to Eat?

Restaurang Tradgarden

S

ituated in the south of Phuket, where many long-stay foreigners and Scandinavians live, this garden restaurant services Swedish potluck in the form of a lunch dish six days per week.

Alltomthai, 95/6 Moo 1, Sai Yuan Rawai, Phuket Tel. +66 (08) 6950 6865

Baba Pool Club

T

his spectacular pool club is a magnet for discerning Thais as well as foreigners situated on an elevated platform with water ponds and a lap pool, bar and a gourmet dining room overlooking Phang Nga bay amidst lush rainforest. And on the ground floor monthly parties is held in the Baba 88 discoteque. There is also a children’s club, fitness area and meeting space. In addition to lounging areas the dining experience in the BabaQ dining area offers innovative cooking and yet simple style of presenting Thai as well as international dishes, including pizzas and with frilled meat and the freshest seafood as highlights.

Sri Panwa, 88 Moo 8 Sakdidej Road, Vichit, Phuket. Located on Cape Panwa Tel. +66 (0) 76 371 000

Two Chefs: From Potluck to Fusion

T

hree successful Swedes on Phuket serve tourists and residents exquisite international, including some Scandinavian favourites, and modern Thai food in their well-known three restaurants, paired with fine wines. The three Swedish Chefs are Henrik Öjelind, Billy Ågren and Krister Westberg.

Today the concept of Two Chefs has moved away from initially being a heavily Scandinavian-oriented restaurant to being a purely international one with Billy in charge of composing the menus on which one finds international dishes, Scandinavian specialities and exquisite Thai food in modern style.

Smoked salmon, Skärgårdstallrik (‘archipelago plate’; a platter of cold fish, including strömming, gravlax, baked whitefish, a variety of herring, whitefish etc) and of course meatballs are their Scandinavian specialties.

As for Thai dishes Billy explains that they serve the classics but in ‘Two Chefs’ own style, more international.

Two Chefs 229 Koktanod Kata Beach Phuket 83100 Tel. +66 (0) 76 284 155

30 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

Two Chefs 2 Karon Road Karon sub-district Muang district Phuket 83100 Tel. +66 (08) 9195 7928

Two Chefs 256-7 Patak Road T.Karon, A.Muang Phuket 83100 Tel. +66 (0) 76 286 479

What to Do?

Capri Beach Club

F

ew know about Capri Beach Club, The Bel Air Resort & Spa’s very own unspoilt beach haven located only 1.5 km’s from the resort, out on Cape Panwa. Ideally located on an exclusive sandy beach at Ao Yon and protected by the seclusion of the bay it’s year-round calm, clean water and gentle slope of the beach makes it a perfect spot for families. Enjoy a host of amenities and watersport activities combined with full-service dining facilities from a casually elegant clubhouse.

Lounge on the beach or get active with water sports, snorkeling or a peaceful kayak outing. A beach coordinator is at hand. Thai seafood cuisine as well as bistro food are on offer at the Capri.

Bel Air Resort & Spa Panwa, 89/9 Moo 7, Sakdidet Road, Wichit, Muang

Shopping at Jungceylon

Splash Jungle Waterpark

P

huket’s first waterpark on Maikhao beach north of the airport providing gallons of excitement for all the family and where parents can keep their children busy a whole day in the various slides and the wave pool. A relaxing day in the water or an adrenalin rush Splah Jungle also comes with various outlets such as a café, a bar that guests can float by and restaurants.

West Sands Phuket 65 Moo 4, Mai Khao Soi 4, Mai Khao, Phuket Tel. +66 (0) 76 372 111

S

tanding downtown, diagonally opposite Bangla Road, the Jungceylon Shopping Complex has radically changed the face of shopping in Patong. The two main stores in the complex are the Robinson department store and the Carrefour supermarket.

Downstairs at Jungceylon you can buy everything from a Kashmir-made rug to a facial massage. It's all cheerfully lit and open spaced and is designed to handle an estimated 45,000 shoppers daily - though this figure seems a little optimistic, given that Patong's official population is 14,700 (and swells to up to 60,000 in high season). Still, it's good to have enough elbow room while shopping..

Near the main entrance there are two large sports shops almost next to each other: SuperSports and Sport World and so you're going to come out a winner simply by comparing prices in both. Also present in the complex is a Surfer's shop with all the necessary accessories.

Jungceylon 181 Rat-U-Thit 200 Pee Rd. Tambol Patong, Amphur Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand. Telephone: 076 600 111. Fax: 076 600 222. Email: info@jungceylon.com

32 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

Phuket Aquarium

P

huket Aquarium is part of the internationally renowned Phuket Marine Biological Center (PMBC), located on the southernmost tip of Cape Panwa on Phuket Island. It is surrounded by breathtaking scenic bays and islands and is the perfect destination for a family excursion.

Enter the aquarium and find yourself in an amazing underwater world with over 150 different species from freshwater and marine habitats, most of them local species from the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. The aquarium’s interactive displays take you on an environmental journey through rivers, lakes and precious, endangered coral reefs, mangroves and estuaries. All information is provided in Thai and English and includes names and interesting facts about the animals.

Learn about the relationships between the animals, encounter electric eels, octopuses, sea turtles and sharks and admire the babies from our ocean nursery like the famous “Nemo” or the cute cuttlefish!

Another highlight is a walk trough our large tunnel tank: Immerse yourself in the ocean being surrounded by huge sting rays, groupers, wrasses, sharks and swarms of snappers. Reach the end of the tunnel and you are greeted by eight massive man-sized Giant Groupers in their 110-ton tank that have been living in the Aquarium for over 20 years!

Phuket Aquarium was established in 1983 as unit of the PMBC, a research and monitoring center under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The Aquarium has developed into a major destination on Phuket Island and attracts about 300.000 visitors per year, including 40.000 tourists.

February 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 33

Where to Stay?

Baan Thai Resort

The Boathouse

anthai Beach Resort & Spa is located at the centre of Patong Beach, Phuket, and is situated on five acres of land amid lush tropical gardens facing the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. The resort offers 290 rooms ranging from Superior to Deluxe Pool Rooms and a variety of suites in contemporary Thai design and architecture, all with full amenities. Banthai Beach Resort & Spa is for when you want high-quality rooms and facilities, an exotic atmosphere, and easy access to everything Patong.

Superior rooms are around 6500 THB but why not go all the way and book the Pool Villa for 60.000 THB per night for the whole family.

rince Henrik of Denmark's favourite place to stay in Phuket is Mom Tri's Boathouse on Kata Beach, the creation of renowned Thai architect, entrepreneur and artist Mom Luang Tridhosyuth Devakul known as Mom Tri. Prince Henrik stayed here last year in February.

Recently, this culinary landmark on Phuket has been acquired

by Three Dolphins Group, but The Boathouse remains under management of Louis Bronner. Boathouse Wine & Grill restaurant is now headed by Executive Chef Jean-Noël Lumineau, Thailand’s only Maître Cuisinier de France.

The Boathouse has inspired a loyal following of visitors, appreciating its friendly superb service, gourmet food, the best wine collection in Phuket and one of the best wine cellars in the Kingdom of Thailand.

B

P

Nature Stay on Mai Kao Beach

I

f you are in search of a quiet and isolated beach on Phuket for yourself, Mai Khao Beach is it. There are times when you’ll be absolutely alone on this, Phuket’s longest beach. The best time to visit is from November to April when the sea is calm and there is very little rain.

Seaside Cottages & Restaurant, Mai Khao Beach offers wooden huts for 600 THB per night for up to two people. The rooms have fan and electricity. Internal dimensions 8 feet square, king size mattress on the floor, all bed linen provided. Shared toilets & showers in a separate building a few meters away. If this is too backpackerish for you, go for a round bungalows at 1800 THB where your mattress is on a bed and you have your own toilet, a working desk and sitting area.

34 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

Amber Sands on Tranquil East Coast of Koh Chang Julian Cowburn Amber Sands Beach Resort 51/3 Moo 2, Dan Kao, Koh Chang 23170 Trat Tel: +66(0)39 586 177 Mobile: +66(0)822 120 698 Email: julian@ambersandsbeachresort.com http://www.ambersandsbeachresort.com

A

mber Sands . . . but it’s on the wrong side of Koh Chang? True! And that’s the whole point.

This eight bungalow family run resort is located on the East coast where you can while away your days far from the vast majority of visitors to the island safe in the knowledge that you won’t be sharing breakfast with a large group of hung over package tourists and won’t find all the sun loungers permanently annexed.

Yet, should you miss the busy White Sand

The restaurant/lounge area right on the beach with a small mangrove forest behind

View of the swimming pool, bungalow on the right, the double storey Beach House in the centre, the sala and part of the beach on the left

beach, and all the souvenir shops, beer bars, tailor’s shops and the 7-eleven then it’s only a 20 minutes drive away.

The South African owners of this little hideaway take great pride in their customer service and in running a family friendly resort for anyone who wants to experience a quieter side of Koh Chang.

The air conditioned bungalows all have sea views and are built around a garden area, complete with small swimming pool. A beach

front restaurant is open most of the day and evening. There are a couple of other small resorts on this stretch of amber coloured beach, so you aren’t tied to eating every meal in the resort.

As with any resort, a full range of activities can be arranged, including motor bike and car hire, snorkel trips, Thai cooking courses and massages in the garden to the sound of lapping waves.

Cosy, friendly, good value and well managed.

Ideal if you want to spend your days busy doing nothing.

Genesis Skin Klinik

Raya Resort Cha-am Announces Opening

G

enesis Skin Klink by Dr. Rujirat Vongthongsri is now open at Dusit Thani Hotel in the heart of Bangkok City. With its 350 m2 of outstanding designed space and panoramic view of Lumpini Park, privacy and personalized programs along with high-standard first class services provided by multilingual professionals, you will discover in the clinic’s “menu” various aesthetic treatment using hi-end innovative technology.

GENESIS SKIN KLINIK 946 The Dusit Thani Building 9th floor, Rama IV road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500.

Call center: +66 (0) 2-636-3740-2 Fax: +66 (0) 2-636-3730 contact@genesisklinik.com www.genesisklinik.com

36 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

R

aya Resort, the newest beach side resort in Cha-am, has announced its opening with special introductory rate.

The Resort is located on 14 rai of exquisite gardens along Cha-am beach in Petchaburi province.

There are two Traditional Row Houses which consist of 6 rooms each, makes total of 12 rooms, 3 Garden Villa and 1 Grand Pool Villa. All 16 rooms/villas are refurbished from the old holiday home since King Rama the 6th era. Combining traditional Thai with a touch of modern architecture, all accents and details of old day are well kept at Raya Resort.

Each room is creatively named after Thai flowers, and decorated with water colors paintings of the flower as it has been named after .

Raya Resort is surrounded by old big trees and garden. All big trees are preserved which make resort atmosphere refreshing Raya Resort offers many amenities include bicycles that the resort provided for all guest’s use and enjoyment, standard size swimming pool with children pool, a pool bar, large meeting room for 30 people, beach bar and the Raya Restaurant & Seafood. This new restaurant by Cha-Am Beach is offering extensive selection of seafood and authentic French and Italian cuisines.

For information or reservation, please contact Telephone +66 (0)32 472 641-2 email rsvn@rayaresortchaam.com website www.rayaresortchaam.com

Investing in Thai Prope Thailand has passed its turbulences in year 2010 which is considered one of the most difficult years in the Thai history as well as for businesses in all sectors. Surprisingly, despite the political turbulence, many huge deals were closed during 2010. In fact, some property investment sales did hit the highest record. This is an indication of high confidence in the property sector as investing in a property is a long term investment.

By Dr. Patima Jeerapaet

Dr. Patima Jeerapaet, Managing Director of Colliers International Thailand and Chairman of the Property Committee of the Thai Swedish Chamber of Commerce, shares his deep knowledge of the sector and his predictions of the market development this year.

T

he property market is mainly categorized into 5 different sectors which includes: industrial, commercial, residential, retail and hospitality. But when property is talked or discussed about, the general public will most likely perceive on the residential market or condominiums.

So, what about the property market in Thailand? Will prices go up in 2011? Is there really scarcity of land? Is it equilibrium for the property market and what will happen in 2011?

We have so many questions on our minds. There is no doubt that prices of property along the BTS or MRT lines will increase continuously because of the limited amount of land and the high demand. This is a scarcity amongst developers because these are considered the prime locations. However in the future, should these lines expand, I believe that land along the extended lines would then become more attractive for developers.

For year 2011 - the right defined statement would be “Certainty is uncertainty”. We should be ready to surf the changing wave if there is any!! We should plan for uncertainty

and be ready to apply all strategies for each challenge and each circumstance.

Judging from the Q4, 2010, I would view the Thai property marketing in each sector for below for 2011.

Industrial Many key industrial estate developers were able to achieve their targets in 2010. The overall industrial market seemed to have improved and growth is expected by 10% in 2011, especially in manufacturing, automobile and parts, electronics and IT businesses. There are also more demand from foreign and local manufacturers for the expansion of industrial estates. The many concern for the industrial sector would be Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) and Health Impact Assessment (HIA).

Commercial The office market has improved slightly especially for Grade B office buildings because of the extended mass transit. Many office buildings outside the CBD seem to attract interest from Tenants as well. Within the CBD, many office buildings are adopting the trend of renovating

38 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

their office buildings with a more modern look to retain existing tenants as well as attract new tenants.

Where Regional Operating Headquarter (ROH) is concerned, no clear movement can be seen as yet but can expect to see results with 2011. This year should be a brighter year for the office market.

Residential The overall residential market in 2010 mainly condominium was on the rise. In 2011, this will rather be stable. Condominium prices ranging between 80,000 – 120,000 baht per square meter will still be available within the city while on the outskirts prices would range between 50,000 – 75,000 baht per square meter.

Upper-end condominiums for foreign investment have slowed down because of the strong Thai currency there are still some investors who look for quality products at bargained prices. This year we can expect for developers to gear their interest to building town houses or detached houses along the new mass transit extension lines.

Retail The retail market has shown continuous improvement. Local demand

continue to grow strongly but for tourists, this might be a little hesitant because of the strong Thai currency.

There are many newly launched retail projects, for example supporting retail space in residential projects and community malls along the new mass transit lines.

Many big retailers and department stores are also adopting the trend to renovating / face lift / rebranding their stores to attract shoppers both in the capital and upcountry. There are also a number of new shopping centers which is likely to be completed in 2011.

Hospitality For hotels industry in 2011, we can expect that there will be approximately 1,662 new rooms for the upper scale and luxury hotel. Hotel investors look for long term investment. Please do not perceive this to be an oversupply because the expected payback period for hotel investors in between 10 – 12 years.

Hotel investors invest with an objective for capital gain in the future.

The low labor costs, low material costs and low import cost since 2010 are striving hotel investors to seize the opportunity for construction.

erty Market in 2011 About the Author Dr. Patima Jeerapaet is the Managing Director of Colliers International Thailand Please feel free to drop your comments or questions to patima. jeerapaet@colliers.com

Like other businesses, the property market also has its life cycle.

Certain properties within the main business and shopping areas are also starting to rejuvenate their assets such as properties within the Sam Yan area of Chulalongkorn University properties, Bangkok Bazaar and Langsuan of Crown Property Bureau, some old shop house projects along Sukhumvit Roads and other main roads.

Agricultural property sector Nevertheless, there is another sector that the locals should look into as another choice of property investment. This is the agricultural sector which is rather sensitive, complex and controversial with regards to property rights and cultural rights. This is an opportunity for the local property investors and is a way for life’s sustainability as well.

Another major change in the Thai property market we look towards in 2011, is the possibility of leasehold extension that will encourage and assist Thai developers, Thai investors as well as foreign investors in their property investment.

This will also bring in foreign direct investment into the country.

Asian Economic Community in 2015 Looking a little bit further, the major change in 2015 would be the Asian Economic Community (AEC) which will positively impact the property market in all sectors as well as transportation and logistics.

The high speed trains from China and the roads connecting countries will hugely benefit Thailand. AEC will open up businesses amongst the Asian countries. Geographically with Thailand in the center of many countries, Thailand will have a larger distribution channel. The public may be scared of over supply of condominiums but once AEC is introduced this will no longer be on ‘over supply’ as we will have more demand for residential. There will be a higher possibility and opportunities for Commercial, Industrial, Retail and Hospitality sectors as well.

Some of the property investment tips are: 1.Aim for best price, high return with low risks 2.Be well aware of the rules & regulations 3.Select for good location Use them wisely and they could make you rich.

Amber Sands --- BEACH RESORT ---

experience peace on Koh Chang’s tranquil east coast

A family-owned and managed boutique style resort on an almost deserted beach.

With only 8 air conditioned chalets we offer friendly hospitality, personal service and attention to detail. www.ambersandsbeachresort.com julian@ambersandsbeachresort.com Tel: +66 (0) 3958 6177 or +66 (0) 8 2212 0698

February 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 39

Four Houses on the Beach The Danish businessman Martin Olsen had a dream.

He wanted to build a house to him self and his family. But when he found a place half a stone throw from the ocean he converted the dream into four houses.

By Bjarne Wildau

D

anish businessman Martin F. Olsen is happy. After three challenging years he has just sold one of four semi attached houses, and the buyer, a young Norwegian couple with children will arrive tomorrow.

The new owners plan to use the house when they need a break from the daily life in Norway.

Martin shows around the house which is two floors with panoramic aluminum frame windows. The kitchen is high-gloss with a granite top island in the middle. Nothing has been spared to make the house live up to the prime location on the beach.

Martin shows the combined living room and kitchen and then he points to the lamp over his head. This is produced in his own lamp factory with more than fifthly people employed, producing lamp based on old wood collected in forest almost allover Thailand.

Later when we come to the bedrooms and bathrooms it’s the same again, old wood helps to give the houses a very special atmosphere.

The young Dane’s dream has been to build the houses so nice

that people will buy one and use it whenever they have time for it.

Away from the restrictions Martin F. Olsen found the place in 2006 - one year before the financial crisis in 2007 - when he was looking up and down the coast of Prachuab Kirikhan province between Cha Am in the North and Pranburi in the South for a piece of land that could fit into his plans.

“I knew that I wanted to build a two story house very close to the beach. At that time restriction after restriction was already invoked in areas close to cities like Cha Am and Hua Hin. So I had to find some land far away from the big cities in order to be able to build first of all close to the beach and secondly away from restrictions how many floors I could put on the foundation,” Martin F. Olsen explains.

At last the Danish businessman found his place, in Kuiburi, one hours drive south of Hua Hin. “It has always been my plan to keep one of the houses for my self and my family. And when I saw the beach and the area I instantly fell in love with the place. The area was perfect for me and my family and that would make it good enough for

40 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

my coming costumers, too,” Martin smiles.

“What happened next is hard to understand for anyone who hasn’t experienced something similar themselves. I found out who owned the land. Then I asked them if they wanted to sell their land. The answer came right away: Yes! The price is three million baht.

“Fine,” I said. “I will go to the bank, will be back in three hours, please have the papers ready.” But... when I came back it was not for sale for three million anymore. The prize was now three and a half million.

We talked and then the price went up to four million bath. If I had continued. I am sure it would have gone up to five million baht,” Martin tells.

Martin finally found another piece of land with no hanky panky.

The owners of this piece were ready to sell it.

But the land was a little different from what was expected from the start.

Advertised on the web “I planned to build two villas but ended up asking an architect to create two semi attached house, both with two story’s, and all four house had two times 70 m2, in all 140 m2”.

The architect made a fantastic job and Martin has published the solution on his website for project.

Martin then selected a contractor who again found his own staff.

“The project was rolling. Or at least that was what I thought,” says Martin.

What hit the project was the financial crisis.

“We were seven months into the construction and we had just finished the foundations and the columns, when everything stopped around us. The market disappeared over the night. At that time we already had at least ten people who seemed close to buying and we even had a Norwegian couple who had made a reservation on one of the four houses.”

They all disappeared.

Today, things seem finally to be back to where they were. The first owner has moved in, using the house as a second house. And more people are showing a keen interest.

“We have adjusted prices, and made it easier to buy a house”, says Martin who is still occupying one of the four houses.

Our Favourite Hide-Aways Last issue, we started asking people with extensive knowledge of Thailand about their favorite spots to go – we went camping in Khao Yai, golfing in the Bangkok upland and sightseeing in Kanchanaburi. This issue, we follow up and present new travel tips to try out.

Hans Konrad Nyvoll:

Biking and Bird Watching in Nakhon Sawan

A

Hans Konad Nyvoll taking a break on one of his biking trips in Nakhon Sawan.

A picture from Nakhon Sawan

by Hans Konrad Nyvoll.

You can find more here: http://www.thailandhansi.net/ Sykkelnakon3.html

n October day in 2000, Hans Nyvoll did what many people only dream of: He quit his job in Norway, sold his house and headed for Thailand. He needed a break and decided to travel for nine months. Ten years later, he finds himself still in Thailand with no plans to return to the cold North. He has a wife and children here and works as a secretary at the Seaman’s Church in Pattaya.

Hans Nyvoll’s favorite spot is in Nakhon Sawan where the rivers Ping and Nan meet and become Chao Phraya. The name Nakhon Sawan means “Heavenly City” and is also the name of the capital of the province. About 100,000 people live there.

“I like to bring my bike up there and bike around on the roads outside the city”, he says. He is very fond of biking and often takes long trips in the beautiful landscape of the province - a curious sight for the locals, he admits.

“When I bike far outside into the countryside, I often get stopped by curious people. They are just happy to talk to me and they like that I speak Thai”, he says. Nyvoll goes go to Nakhon Sawan and the city Baan Krathum with his family as much as they can - his in-laws live in the area. For the nature lover, there is plenty to do. Nyvoll has been a bird watcher since he was a kid: “There is a park inside the city and a big lake where you can see all the beautiful birds”, he says. “I just feel this is like the real Thailand,” he says.

By Anya Palm A road to Angkhang Nature Resort, overlooking a sea of fog

Susanne Morch

Cool Air in the North

S

usanne came to Thailand in 1992 and has since then been an eager traveler – she will not settle for the pre-arranged tours and has never lost her curiosity of all things Thai, despite her many years in the country. Last issue, she recommended a camping trip as a good way to meet the locals, see the nature and spend quality time with the family.

But Morch, a former tour guide and currently the director of the insurance assistance company Asian Assistance, has more great tips to share: You could try Doi Angkhan that features something very valuable in the tropics: Breeze!

“In the Thai summer, the weather is pleasant and in the winter it is cold, when you are used to Thai temperatures. You get the best night’s sleep with the windows open and a fresh breeze coming in – far better than the air-conditioned cool we usually sleep in,” she says.

Doi Angkhan is about 160 kilometers north east of Chiang Mai, close to the Myanmar border and surrounded by mountains. Apart from enjoying the weather, it is a place for exploring the many facets of Thai culture: “You can go for a walk in the mountain tribe village, where the Palong lives. They are not so “famous” a minority, but you can recognize them on 42 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

the colorful clothing and the many belts, the women wear. You can get a little look into their world and for example see how they cultivate their strawberries and tea,” says Susanne Morch.

One of the things to see is also the project center, where the locals cultivate kiwis, parsley, peaches, raspberry and other products. If they have success with the harvest, they share their findings with the mountain tribes in the area, who cultivate them and distribute them to other parts of the country. A lot of these crops can be found in supermarkets in Bangkok.

Another thing to do is very simple, but yet not so simple: Relax by the fireplace.

“This is probably one of the very few places in Thailand, where it is enjoyable to sit in front of a fireplace. Doi Angkhan is very popular with Thais, who put on hats, mittens and winter jackets and get a sense of how it is to be abroad. And we can almost think we are home in Scandinavia and its brisk climate. At home, we consider it a natural thing to breathe all the way in and feel the cool, fresh air, but not so in Bangkok and we sometimes forget how it feels. In Doi Angkhan we are reminded of that feeling,” she says.

Reverend Jyrki Markkanen is passionate about photography and shares these pictures from his travels with us.

Jyrki Markkanen

Go to a Thai Travel Fair and Take Your Pick!

B

eing an expatriate has its perks, one of the main one being the ability to communicate with people in Thai. It makes life easier and more pleasant in many ways, and it opens doors that are otherwise closed to foreigners. One of them, says reverend Jyrki Markkanen from the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission, is picking out exciting destinations at the occasional Thai travel fairs.

“Many small resorts are run by local families. I have found these kinds of places in Hua Hin, Cha Am, Pranburi and along the coastal area near Chantaburi”, says

Markkanen and recommends to browse through the options and find the best one for you.

The pastor came to Thailand with his wife and son in 1997. It was the intention that the family should stay for four years, and then moved back to Finland. “…but oops! It happens so easily that your term is extended and you find yourself living and working here, more or less permanently!” he says.

Unlike many others in the same situation, the pastor has kept his original profession, because the Finnish community in Thailand is ever-expanding. The church and

the need at times to speak with a Finnish-speaking pastor keeps Markkanen busy.

When he leaves town, he looks for tranquility, not too many people, and usually he heads for the sea.

“I do not necessarily do anything special, but walk or jog along the beach, have a good Thai meal in a small restaurant or at the local market”, he says.

For him, the place itself does not matter. Instead, he brings his camera and takes pictures of wherever he goes: “Photography is one of my passions, and I carry my camera

with me all the time”, he says.

The resorts, he says, are often out of the trodden path, but still within a couple of hours drive from Bangkok, so they are perfect for a get-away. The trick is to find them: “You have to invest some time in finding these resorts, as there are not so many announcements in English. But ask your Thai-friends or look for a travel fair in Bangkok. There is always someone at the booths that speak English. Don’t be surprised if there are not so many Westerners looking for travel deals that way,“ says Jyrki Markkanen

Bengt Juhlin

Hide-aways Are Everywhere - Inside and Outside Bangkok

I

t’s 26 years ago that Bengt Juhlin moved to Thailand. Over the years he has worked in an array of different fields through his employment in UN. Here, Bengt Juhlin has had his hands in natural resource development, anti-narcotics and preventing organized crime, amongst other tasks.

Today, he is somewhat retired, although he still works occasionally for the UN and takes in assignments for different private companies that are interested in Thailand.

His list of favorite places is as extensive as his many achievements in Thailand, but: “One of my favorite provinces for a long weekend is Loei on the Laotian border; beautiful mountains with the mighty Mekong river literally at your feet, many very nice bungalow resorts and it is much less touristic than for ex-

44 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

ample Chang Mai or Chang Rai,” he says.

The Loie province is one of the least populated with just over 22,000 people all in all - and one of the few places in Thailand that goes below 0 degrees every now and then in the cold season.

But when the temperature is right, Loei is covered in flower fields. Many flowers are cut and transported to Bangkok to be sold at the Flower Market in China Town. There is a yearly flower festival in Loei.

But, if pressed for time, Juhlin says: Simply stay in Bangkok. It is bigger than Siam Square and the other places near the BTS-stops.

“For delicious seafood, why not try out Ban Klang Nam at Rama III Soi 14? Satisfaction guaranteed! Or if you are interested in Thai architecture, as I am, take the

car and drive down to the Ancient City in Samut Prakarn. Fascinating place, and you can get a bite there as well in one of the old houses on stilts in one of the small lakes,” he says.

Or even closer to the city centre - Bengt Juhlin swears to the area right behind Lumpini Tower for local treats: “There is the Trajai Steak House, the Lido Italian Restaurant or the very local Kenny’s for excellent Thai food. They are all just meters away from each other in Sri Ban Pen Road off Rama IV,” he says.

With that, no one needs to go to the same place twice or settle for second best in Thailand - the selection is too extensive and variated to disappoint. Or, as Juhlin says about this series: “You could go on and on...”

Danish Scientist Honored With Doctorate in Thailand Jørgen Hylleberg, the Danish scientist who has spent most of his professional life researching marine biology in Thailand was last summer honored with a doctoral degree at Kasetsart University in Bangkok.

By Morten Scheelsbeck

J

ørgen Hylleberg enjoys being warm and comfortable in his villa south of Århus, Denmark.

But the retired scientist with a Ph.D. in marine biology lived in fact for many years in much warmer place – Phuket, Thailand, where he was a researcher and Advisor to the Phuket Marine Biological Center.

Jørgen Hylleberg retired in 2005, but in July last year he went back to Thailand for a very special reason: “One of the young Thais that I taught many years ago had suddenly risen through the ranks at the Kasetsart University and he proposed that I should be given a title as an honorary doctorate,” Jørgen Hylleberg proudly explains.

Great job offer in Thailand Jørgen Hylleberg was born in Vejgaard in Aalborg in northern Jutland in 1935, and he graduated cand.scient. with a major in Biology at the University of Copenhagen in 1969.

After having worked and taught in several places in Denmark, he was in 1979 given a chance to go abroad and experience something really special: “I was offered a job as an Advisor at the Phuket Marine Biological Center, which at the time included 25 Thai scientists and about 75 other employees. It was a fantastic opportunity, so I was not in doubt that it was the right thing for me,” the retired scientist says.

The Marine Center was a great success and already three years later

in 1982, when Bangkok celebrated its 200 Anniversary as the capital of Thailand, the center was given a great birthday gift from Denmark: Three million Danish Kroner for expansion of the facility. A large museum building was constructed so the center could exhibit more of their discoveries, and the center even began having summer courses for Thai students paid by DANIDA.

Family moved to Thailand Phuket Marine Biological Center was now dealing with many different things such as mangroves, coral and aquatic environments. Although the center has been expanding and has become even bigger over the years, they have all along remembered to take good care of the environment, Jørgen Hylleberg states.

“Initially, when the Danes came down to visit Phuket where the center is located, the island was quite virginal, and it was a fantastic gem.

It was a dream come true to work there and since then, people have been very careful to take good care of the environment surrounding the island.”

The first three years Jørgen Hylleberg spend with his Danish family in Thailand, while he worked at the center. The following 11 years he lived half his time at home in Denmark but continued as adviser to the Thai scientists. The many years is something that has left its traces in the family: “I could clearly feel the Thai in-

46 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

fluence on my three children. They quickly took the cheerful, Buddhist philosophy to heart, and they still think about it today, “ the scientist remarks.

The bristle worm Henriki One particular thing that Jørgen Hylleberg experienced in Thailand was that he discovered an entirely new species. He found a new bristle worm, which had not previously been named, and after Royal permission from Denmark, the new bristle worm was named Henriki after the Danish Prince Henrik. Same Prince Henrik has traveled extensively in Thailand and he is also patron of the Thai-Danish Foundation for PMBC, which is founded to support research at the center.

Phuket Marine Biological Center is now more than a research center. Tourists also come to the site to look at the area’s rich and diverse wildlife.

Historical background The Phuket Marine Biological Center (PMBC) was established under a bilateral agreement between the governments of Thailand and Denmark after the 5th Thai-Danish Expedition in the Andaman Sea area off the coast of Thailand in 1966.

The first bilateral agreement (for 5 years) was signed by the governments of Thailand and Denmark on October 16th, 1968. This was followed by a 2nd agreement (for 4 year), and then a 3nd agreement

which ended in 1983 with a reduced contribution from the Danish government.

The latest 5 year cooperation between the two governments was issued for 1996-2000. The Center was transferred from Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives to the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, in accordance with the Thai government agency reform of October 3rd, 2002.

Location The PMBC is located at the southern end of Phuket Island on the promontory called Laem Panwa about 10 km from the heart of Phuket town. The Center can be reached either by local bus called “song taew” meaning a bus with two rows of seats from town (approx. 15 Baht) or by local taxis (tuktuk, about 100-150 Baht depending on negotiation.

Billedtekst The retired scientist Jørgen Hylleberg with a big picture from when he received the title of honorary doctor from the Thai Princess in July 2010.

take a deep breath relax your feeling be the one with nature...here

paradise of the east Andaman

he Beach Natural Resort is located on the beautiful island of Koh Kood in Bang Bao Bay. The resort is set in a Bali style theme which is blended in with Thai culture. The graceful environment, with its many kinds of flowers and colorful orchids, fits together in perfect harmony with the quiet and peaceful scenery.

Our private beach is definitely the place of many impressive memories. You can enjoy everything from kayaking in the bay, and sunbathing on the beach, to watching the sun as it sets over the horizon from our personal pier here at “The Beach Natural Resort�

The Beach Natural Resort

Bangkok office : 34(3) 22 Circle Condominium, Mitapan Rd, Pomprap, Bangkok 10100 Phone: +66 (0) 2222 9969, +66 (0) 2222 9961 / Fax: +66 (0) 2222 9971 47 Moo 5, Koh Kood, Trat, Thailand Phone: +66 (0) 86 009 9420, +66 (0) 85 900 0890 / Web: www.thebeachkohkood.com / Email: thebeachnatural@gmail.com

Aava Resort & Spa Ready to Roll The high season in Thailand is fully flowing, and the same goes for Finnish resort, Aava Resort & Spa in Khanom. The new resort was fully booked since December 13th and the owners Kati Häkkinen and Atte Savisalo will be busy for months to come.

By Søren Lykke Bülow

K

ati Häkkinen and Atte Savisalo are currently enjoying their lives in Khanom, on the main land close to Koh Samui in the south-eastern part of Thailand.

In September, their new resort, Aava Resort & Spa, celebrated its Grand Opening, and now the Finnish couple for the first time are facing the challenges of Thailand’s high season. ”Right now it’s going pretty well. Khanom was affected by all the floods in the autumn, and our basement was destroyed because of the water. We lost our server, had some electricity black outs and such things. But we were soon up and running again,” Kati Häkkinen says.

Positive reactions Aava Resort & Spa has actually had visitors since December 2009, although it didn’t inaugurate officially before February 2010. The visitors,

who have stayed at the resort so far, have mostly left the place with great satisfaction, says Kati. ”98 percent of the customers have seemed very happy about Aava Resort & Spa,” says Kati based on feedback from her guests. She sees another type of customer going to Khanom than for instance to Koh Samui. ”Most of the people who come here have already travelled a lot in Thailand. They have seen most of the tourist places, and now they are looking for a more relaxed area, and in that sense Khanom is a bit of a paradise.”

The Finns have all-in-all found a place where not many foreigners normally go, but in an area that has great potential. ”The Khanom area is simply wonderful. When you look around in the area there is just such an abundance of beautiful beaches, and as it turns out, more and more

people ask for prices of land here,” Kati says.

Quickly attractive The minimalistic Avaa Resort & Spa has quickly become a success in Khanom, and with fully booked rooms, interest has been growing increasingly and fast. ”We have been mentioned in media all over the world which has been great for us. But one of the important ways for us to promote ourselves is by promoting Khanom.

We never promote only Aava Resort & Spa,” Kati says. ”That is because Khanom is such a different place from most of the places that the tourists normally go to. If we only promote only Aava Resort & Spa, then a customer might think that they might arrive at a place like Phuket or Hua Hin. So our focus is on the area, the beauty and how natural Khanom is,” she explains as one of the reason for the success.

Co-watching the area Kati Häkkinen emphasises the area’s ability to always think of what is best for the surroundings as an important part in the development of Khanom. ”The local community really follows the instructions and regulations put in place here. The society is waiting for the development of Khanom, but everyone is focused on not ending up as Koh Samui for instance,” she says. ”Khanom people are proud of the area, and there is a mutual respect around here,” Kati mentions 48 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

as one of the important reasons that Khanom will keep its spirit and not ‘sell-out’ too much to tourism.

She believes that people in Khanom have learned a lot from Koh Samui, where the development suddenly took a ‘wrong turn’, as she calls it. The population of Khanom is really focused on the originality and quality of the area. The feeling is that the local population will not succome to modern mass tourism.

The high season The first really challenging tasks for Kati and Atte has been the high season that started before Christmas and continues long into the spring. ”We have high hopes for the high season. We were fully booked from 13th of December and all the way until the 15th of January. Then we had a few weeks off with some rooms left, and the we are fully booked again for the rest of February. It looks very good for us,” Kati says.

The customers are not only from Finland. Many different nationalities come by. ”We have had many Thai companies coming and, as it turns out, many Thai families do trips in the weekends, so we have had a lot of Thai customers. But now we are in the season, where many Scandinavians will come.” ”Around Christmas time, 98 percent of our customers were Finns, but the rest of the time it is a mix of all types of people,” says Kati Häkkinen.

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

ชีวิตรักของเอกอัครราชฑูตเดนมาร์ก คุณมิเคลและภรรยา คุณรัตนาวดี หรือที่คุณมิเคลมักจะเรียกสั้นๆ ว่า คุณรัตนา ได้อธิบายถึงความสุขของ การที่ได้รับตำ�แหน่งนี้ว่า “มันไม่ใช่ แค่มีความสุข แต่มันเป็นมากกว่า ความสุขเสียอีก” “มันไม่ใช่เพราะเป็นบ้านคุณรัตนา แต่ที่นี่ประเทศไทย เป็นประเทศแรก ในเอเชียที่ผมเคยมาสัมผัส” คุณมิเคลกล่าว

มิเคล เหมนิธิ วินเธอร์ และภรรยา รัตนาวดี กับตำ�แหน่งเอกอัครราชฑูตเดนมาร์ก ประจำ�ประเทศไทย กัมพูชา และพม่า ทั้งสองได้พบกันครั้งแรก ประมาณปี พ.ศ.2538-2541 ซึ่งเป็นการเดินทางมา ทำ�งานที่เมืองไทยเป็นครั้งแรกของไมเคิล และเรื่องราว โรแมนติคก็ได้เกิดขึ้นจากการพบกันครั้งแรก กลางงาน Australian ball ประจำ�ปี พ.ศ.2539

“ผมไม่เคยมาเอเชียเลย และการมา ประเทศไทยครั้งนั้นก็สร้างความ ประทับใจให้กับผมมากมาย หลังจากนั้นผมก็ได้มีโอกาสทำ�งาน ที่ฟิลิปปินส์ ผมยิ่งรู้เลยว่า เอเชีย นี่แหละคือสถานที่ที่เหมาะกับผม แล้ว ประเทศไทยเป็นเหมือน เป้าหมายของผมอยู่แล้ว ซึ่งการได้ เป็นเอกอัครราชฑูตก็ยิ่งใหญ่มากๆ อยู่แล้ว แต่การได้มาประจำ�ที่นี่ ผมว่ามันเหมือนฝันที่เป็นจริง” คุณมิเคลกล่าวพร้อมรอยยิ้ม

คุณมิเคลได้เล่าให้เราฟังถึงการพบ กันครั้งแรกของทั้งคู่ว่า เมื่อประมาณ ปี พ.ศ.2538-2541 คุณมิเคลได้มา ทำ�งานที่ประเทศไทยเป็นครั้งแรก “ผมออกจะเป็นเพลย์บอยหน่อยๆ ผมก็เลยบอกให้เพื่อนผมคนหนึ่งที่ ทำ�งานอยู่ที่สถานฑูตออสเตรเลีย แปลโดย โมนิก้า เมอลเลอร์ แนะนำ�สาวสวยให้กับผมหน่อย ภาพโดย ดิศราพร ญาติพร้อม

เขาก็เลยจองโต๊ะที่งานเลี้ยงเต้นรำ� ประจำ�ปีให้กับผม พร้อมกับชวน สาวๆ มานั่งเต็มโต๊ะ” คุณมิเคล เล่าให้เราฟัง แต่ปรากฎว่าคุณรัตนาไม่ใช่ผู้หญิงคน ที่เพื่อนคุณมิเคลคิดเอาไว้ “ฉันแค่ถูกเชิญมาเพื่อเสริมๆ ให้ที่มัน ไม่เหลือเท่านั้นแหละค่ะ” คุณรัตนา กล่าวพร้อมกับหัวเราะ คุณรัตนาเล่าว่า ในช่วงเวลานั้น คุณรัตนาได้กลับมาทำ�งานที่เมือง ไทยพอดี หลังจากที่ไปใช้ชีวิตที่ ต่างประเทศมาตั้งแต่อายุ 16 ปี ซึ่งตอนนั้นได้ไปศึกษาต่อที่ สหรัฐอเมริกา และกลับมาเรียน ระดับปริญญาตรีที่ธรรมศาสตร์ ช่วงหนึ่ง แล้วจึงไปศึกษาต่อที่ แวนคูเวอร์ ประเทศแคนาดา ในช่วงเวลาที่ทำ�งานอยู่แคนาดา คุณรัตนาได้ถูกรับเชิญให้กลับมาเป็น อาจารย์ที่เมืองไทย ซึ่งตอนนั้นคอร์ส ทั้งหมดที่คุณรัตนาสอนเป็นช่วงเย็น คุณรัตนาไม่อยากให้เวลาผ่านไป โดยเปล่าประโยชน์ จึงได้ไปทำ�งานที่ ศูนย์การศึกษานานาชาติที่สถานฑูต ออสเตรเลีย และเพื่อนร่วมงานก็ได้ ชวนเธอไปงานเต้นรำ�ประจำ�ปี มาถึงช่วงเวลาสำ�คัญ ทั้งสองได้เล่า ให้เราฟังต่างกันเล็กน้อย คุณรัตนา

LAND FOR SALE Lot FP 91 in Emville Golf Resort Size of lot 9800 sqf or 909 sqm

for details contact

50 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

Bo Jeansson bo.jeansson@spray.se 012-339 5289

ประจำ�ประเทศไทย บอกว่ามิเคลได้รุกจีบสาวๆ หลาย คนในโต๊ะตลอดทั้งคืน แต่คุณมิเคล ก็บอกกับเราว่า ทันทีที่คุณรัตนามา สายตาเขาก็หยุดอยู่ที่คุณรัตนาแค่ คนเดียว หลังจากคืนนั้น คุณมิเคลก็พยายาม โทรหาคุณรัตนาที่สถานฑูตตลอด เพื่อหวังว่าจะได้ชวนเธอไป รับประทานอาหารด้วยกัน คุณมิเคลเล่าอย่างภาคภูมิใจว่า “ในที่สุดผมก็ได้ใส่แว่นตาดำ� ขี่รถชอปเปอร์เงาวับ ไปรับเธอออก มา ผมว่าผมเท่ห์เกินกว่าสาวๆ จะ ต้านทานได้” คุณรัตนาแก้ว่า “แต่หลังจากคืนนั้น ฉันเลยต้องบอกกับทุกคนที่ออฟฟิศ ว่าถ้าเพลย์บอยเดนมาร์กคนนั้น โทรมาอีก ก็บอกไปเลยนะว่าฉัน ไม่ได้เข้ามาทำ�งาน” “แต่ไม่นานฉันก็คิดได้ว่า เอาอย่างงี้ ละกัน ฉันจะแต่งงานกับเขา อย่าง น้อยมันก็จะช่วยให้เขาหยุดโทรหา ฉัน !” คุณรัตนาเล่าทิ้งท้ายด้วยเสียง หัวเราะ

“ฉันชอบประเทศเดนมาร์ก ชอบ ที่ทำ�งาน ชอบชีวิตที่นั่นมากๆ และฉันก็ชอบการปั่นจักรยานใน เดนมาร์ก ซึ่งตอนแรก มิเคลบังคับ ให้ฉันลองปั่นจักรยานดู พอสักพัก ฉันก็เลยได้เข้าใจว่าทำ�ไมเขาถึงได้ พยายามให้ฉันลองดู” เธอพูดพร้อม ทั้งยิ้ม ต่อมาในปี พ.ศ.2551 คุณมิเคลต้อง ไปทำ�งานที่อิรัก ส่วนคุณรัตนาตัดสิน ใจที่จะทำ�งานที่เดิม แต่ตอนนี้ทั้ง คู่ก็ได้ย้ายกลับมาอยู่ประเทศไทย เรียบร้อยแล้ว หลังจากคุณมิเคลได้ เป็นเอกอัครราชฑูตเดนมาร์กในไทย ซึ่งคุณรัตนาก็ได้เข้าทำ�งานที่ NGO ประเทศไทย “แต่มันจะเป็นงานแค่ครึ่งเวลา เท่านั้นค่ะ เพราะในฐานะของภรรยา ของเอกอัครราชฑูตเดนมาร์กใน ไทย มันกลายเป็นธรรมเนียมไปแล้ว สำ�หรับการทำ�งานช่วยเหลือ สภากาชาดไทยด้วย” คุณรัตนา กล่าว

และในส่วนของความตั้งใจกับ ตำ�แหน่งเอกอัครราชฑูตเดนมาร์ก ในไทย คุณมิเคลได้กล่าวว่า เขา คุณรัตนาเล่าให้เราฟังว่าการตัดสินใจ ต้องการที่จะสร้างความสัมพันธ์ที่ดี ย้ายไปอยู่เดนมาร์กไม่ใช่เรื่องง่ายเลย ระหว่างเดนมาร์กและไทย และใน หลังจากที่เธอต้องตัดสินใจออกจาก ส่วนขององค์กร เขาก็คาดหวังที่จะ เข้าไปดูแลในทุกส่วนให้ทุกคนทำ�งาน งานที่โทรอนโต มาทำ�งานที่ ร่วมกันอย่างราบรื่นและมีความสุข เดนมาร์กแทน และไม่นานเธอก็ได้ นอกจากนั้นแล้ว ยังมีความต้องการ เข้าทำ�งานที่ Carl Bro แต่หลัง จากนั้นไม่นาน มิเคลได้ไปทำ�งานที่ ที่จะดูแลคนเดนมาร์กทุกคน รวมไป ถึงบริษัทเดนมาร์กในประเทศไทย ฮานอย เวียดนาม เธอจึงตัดสินใจ อีกด้วย ย้ายไปทำ�งานในบริษัทเดิมคือ Carl Bro แต่ในอีกสายงานที่ “อีกหนึ่งความตั้งใจของผม คือการ ประเทศเวียดนาม สร้างภาพลักษณ์ใหม่ๆ ให้กบั สถานฑูต ซึ่งผมก็ตื่นเต้น และยินดีมากที่ได้ ไม่นานทั้งคู่ก็กลับไปอยู่เดนมาร์ก ด้วยกัน คุณรัตนาได้ตัดสินใจย้ายไป ทำ�งานทีน่ ่ี และได้รว่ มงานกับทุกคน” ทำ�งานที่ Consia หลังจากออกจาก คุณมิเคลกล่าวทิ้งท้าย พร้อมรอยยิ้ม Carl Bro February 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 51

ช่วงเวลาดีๆ ของชาวฟินแลนด์ ในหัวหิน

สองปีที่ผ่านมาถือว่าเป็น เพียงจุดเริ่มต้นเท่านั้น สำ�หรับสมาคม ชาวฟินแลนด์ในหัวหิน ที่ได้จัดสรรช่วงเวลาและ กิจกรรมดีๆ ให้กับ ชาวฟินแลนด์ในหัวหิน มีห้องสมุด และการนัดพบ เป็นประจำ�ทุกเดือน ทำ�ให้ตอนนี้จำ�นวนของ สมาชิกในสมาคมก็ได้ เพิ่มขึ้นเรื่อยๆ รวมกว่า 300 คนแล้ว แปลโดย โมนิก้า เมอลเลอร์

สองปีทผ่ี า่ นมา เพือ่ นรักชาว ฟินแลนด์สองคนทีพ่ กั อาศัยอยูใ่ น หัวหินก็ได้พดู คุยกันว่าอยากจะทำ� อะไรดีๆให้กบั เพือ่ นๆ ชาวฟินแลนด์ท่ี อาศัยอยูท่ ห่ี วั หินเช่นเดียวกับ พวกเขา ซึง่ พวกเขาเชือ่ ว่ามีชาว ฟินแลนด์มากกว่า 2,000 คน ทีอ่ าศัย อยูใ่ นหัวหินมากกว่า 2 เดือนต่อปี เป็คก้า ฮิคคิแนน ได้บอกกับ แอนซี โอลิคาลา ว่าเขามีความฝัน อยากจะสร้างห้องสมุดให้กบั ชาว ฟินแลนด์ ซึง่ แอนซีกไ็ ม่ได้ขดั แต่ได้ เสนอไอเดียว่า ทำ�ไมเราไม่กอ่ ตัง้ เป็น สมาคมชาวฟินแลนด์ในหัวหินซะเลย แล้วห้องสมุดค่อยตามมาทีหลังก็ได้ หลังจากนัน้ ไม่กส่ี ปั ดาห์ สมาคม “Hua Hinin Seudun Suomalaiset” ก็ได้ถกู ก่อตัง้ ขึน้ และในเวลาแค่เพียง 2 ปี ก็ได้มี สมาชิกถึง 300 คนแล้ว “สมาชิกหลายท่านของเราตัดสิน ใจขายบ้านหลังทีส่ องในโปรตุเกส หรือสเปน เพราะค่าใช้จา่ ยในการ

52 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

ดูแลสูงเกินไป และแน่นอนว่ามันคุม้ ค่ากว่ามากทีจ่ ะบินมาใช้ชวี ติ อยูท่ ่ี ประเทศไทยแทน” แอนซีบอกกับเรา ในช่วงแรก สมาคมฯ ได้กอ่ ตัง้ ขึน้ แต่ตง้ั อยูอ่ กี ทีห่ นึง่ ซึง่ เป็นห้องเล็กๆ แต่พอเดือนกันยายน ปี พ.ศ.2553 จึงได้การตัดสินใจย้ายไปอยูท่ ่ี Thai Boxing Centre ซึง่ ตัง้ อยูท่ ่ี Grand Plaza แทน ซึง่ ทีน่ เ่ี รามีทง้ั ห้อง สมุด คอมพิวเตอร์และอินเตอร์เน็ต นอกจากนัน้ ยังมีซาวน์นา่ ไว้บริการ สมาชิกอีกด้วย “ห้องสมุดของเรา เปิดให้บริการ ในช่วงเย็น 5 วันต่อสัปดาห์ แต่ถา้ สมาชิกคนไหนแวะมาในเวลาอืน่ ก็ไม่ เป็นไร แค่เดินไปขอยืมกุญแจที่ Thai boxing center ได้เลย แล้วถ้าใคร จะยืมหนังสือก็แค่กรอกรายละเอียด ไว้กพ็ อ” เป็คก้ากล่าว แอนซีได้บอกกับเราว่า อินเตอร์เน็ต มีสว่ นสำ�คัญมากทีท่ �ำ ให้สมาคมฯ นี้ เติบโตอย่างรวดเร็ว เพราะหลายครัง้ ทีเ่ รานัดเจอ หรือรวมตัวโดยนัดหมาย

ล่วงหน้าเพียงวันหรือสองวัน ถ้าไม่ได้ อินเตอร์เน็ตคงเป็นเรือ่ งทีย่ ากแน่ๆ นอกจากนัน้ กิจกรรมทีส่ นุกมากของ ทางสมาคมฯ ก็คอื การแข่งขันกอล์ฟ ประจำ�ปีทผ่ี า่ นมา ซึง่ เป็นแข่งขันกับ สมาคมชาวฟินแลนด์ในพัทยา “เราตัง้ ใจทีจ่ ะชนะทีมพัทยาในปีท่ี แล้ว มันสนุกสุดยอดมากๆ” แอนซี่ เล่าพร้อมเสียงหัวเราะ “แต่ทส่ี มาคมฯ ของเราก็ยงั มีอกี หลายกิจกรรมทีน่ า่ สนใจ และสมาชิก ก็สามารถเข้าร่วมได้มากกว่าอีกด้วย เช่น การแข่งขันเปตอง การแข่งขัน โยนโบว์ลง่ิ การชิมซุปกันในบ่ายวัน พุธ ซาวน์นา่ หรือการจัดทริปสนุกๆ ดูคอนเสิรต์ ต่างๆ ทีก่ รุงเทพ ซึง่ เป็น กิจกรรมทีไ่ ม่ควรพลาดเลยทีเดียว” แอนซีกล่าว ทิง้ ท้าย www.huahininseudunsuomalaiset. net

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Medium

Baked Salmon Fillet in Foil

Evil

N

ot only is this an easy way to bake fish, but preparing salmon fillet with savory rosemary and vegetables makes this a delicious and flavorful meal. It is a known fact that seafood is healthy food and that salmon, especially, is very rich in Omega 3 Fatty Acid, which lowers our cholesterol.

Baking the fish in aluminum foil makes the clean-up easy, so this recipe has numerous benefits. This recipe is for four people.

Ingredients: 1 pound fish fillet - skin on 1 small onion, thinly sliced Fresh rosemary, chopped.

1/2 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 tablespoon lemon zest 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice Ground sea salt Coarsely ground black pepper Aluminum foil

Are you done?

Preparation: Brush olive oil on a large piece of aluminum foil. Place rinsed and dried fillet, skin-side down on foil. Sprinkle lemon zest, salt, pepper and rosemary

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:

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Age: ________________________

Mobile:

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Address:

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Deadline for submitting your solution is 15 February 2011 54 ScandAsia.Thailand • February 2011

Vegetables: Broccoli florets Sliced red peppers Sliced yellow squash Thinly sliced red skin potatoes Arrange vegetables over fish. Spritz lemon juice and sprinkle ground sea salt sparingly. Fold foil tightly around the salmon fillet and vegetables and place on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350 C.. Bake 20 minutes.

Serving Suggestion: Place serving platter on top of the foil-covered salmon fillet. Turn platter over and remove foil. Remove skin from fillet. Garnish with tomatoes, parsley sprigs and lemon slices.

This is a great fish recipe and believe me, Norwegians know how to cook seafood.

February 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 55

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