ScandAsia Thailand - January 2013

JAN 2013

A SHOOTING STAR SECURITAS DEVELOPING THAILAND’S SECURITY INDUSTRY

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Opinion

Single hot white female

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

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

Please sign up for your own FREE copy: www.scandasia.com Publisher : 211 Soi Prasert Manukit 29 Prasert Manukit Road Chorakae Bua, Lad Prao Bangkok 10230, Thailand Tel. +66 2 943 7166-8, Fax: +66 2 943 7169 E-mail: news@scandasia.com Editor-in-Chief : Gregers A.W. Møller gregers@scandmedia.com Assistant Editor: Wachiraporn Janrut wachiraporn@scandmedia.com Advertising : Finn Balslev finn@scandmedia.com Piyanan Kalikanon piyanan@scandmedia.com Nattapat Maesang nattapat@scandmedia.com

ith a few glasses of bubbly and second long island under her belt Miss X’s initial stoic work persona was beginning to dissipate like the cigarette smoke between us. This was not the first or the last cry I would hear of the “Farang” (non-Thai) single ladies in Thailand, who began their search for love but settled for “just some f**king attention” as she so eloquently slurred it.

Why is it so difficult to find a fellow expatriate man? Well, look around! The local, Thai competition is everywhere! They’re young, beautiful, exotic and hungry, and I don’t mean for a bowl of noodles. I am not only referring to those who lurk in bars, street corners and seedy clubs, offering their “love for rent”, I’m also referring to the sexy, ambitious educated women who’ve acquired the same ideals of love, kids and marriage, to a man who can provide good genes, security and a comfortable life. Let’s face it, in Thailand there is no lack of sensual “unattached” women, some wayward and desperate, some well-spoken and driven.

My expatriate friend once joked that “there was so much p*ssy he was careful not to step on them in the street”, a crude yet realistic look at the abundance of readily available lust and sex in this city, predominately for professional expatriate males.

“I came thinking it would be easy to meet some quality guys, I would be the exotic white skinned one and we’d instantly connect,” she said, “I’m educated, speak English and have a better understanding of Western culture AND I don’t depend on them financially”. Anyone not present may assume that Miss X’s speech was self-serving and obnoxious but it was more of frustration with undertones of loneliness.

Expatriate women are no fools; they’ve come here for professional reasons, worked their asses off in male dominated industries and made huge sacrifices to move to this manic concrete pile of steaming heat.

I admire the resilience of Thai women suffering with hardship but I also gained some respect for the expat women who are often neglected or misunderstood.

Sometimes they find themselves behaving oddly out of their typically proud and poised character, to receive some kind of small admiration or romantic gestures from the perpetually distracted men, who honestly couldn’t care less if they floated shares or fried fish.

Miss X had relented, “Oh god, I’ve hooked up with guys I’d never ever hook up with at home”, these situations always start out with copious amounts of alcohol and usually end in utter desperation and subsequently shame. Another expat lady friend proclaims that expat men in Thailand are not to her tastes but it appears the feeling is somewhat mutual.

I can hear my impossibly crude friend “Once you ride the Oriental Express, you can never get off TOOT! TOOT! ”, pulling at the invisible steam train rope. A male associate also told me he was not interested in white girls anymore, he was seduced by the petite-ness of frame, the demure of character, loyalty to culture and devotion to religion, ironically the same guy a year down the track was divorced, penniless and still trawling the girly bars.

Miss X returned from the bathroom, tall and domineering in stature but wearing surprisingly shorter heels then I would suspect she’d wear at home, I watched her as she tried to navigate her frame through the tables.

“The guys back at home, they surround me in the clubs, I have to fend them off with a stick! But here they don’t bother to approach me! The local girls are all over them like a rash, sometimes I just want to piss them off! Prove to myself I’ve still got it! But then I end up with some douchebag” I asked her “do you think the men believe western women are hard to please and demanding”? She screwed up her face, grinned and replied, “yes, probably, but give us a chance, we’re not all stuck up bitches, we like fun too! Miss X was not ashamed to occasionally fight for a “good night out” even if not in the exact power position or quality of individual she’d prefer (i.e.: the odd douchebag) “I don’t care much these days, though sometimes I feel like a social leper, I just have to work harder at it, getting a guy to bed is not the real difficult part, it’s getting the right one that’s impossible”. She was not under any romantic delusion finding “The” Mr. X in Bangkok, but there was a slight sting of hurt and fragility of pride buzzing around under that tough, modern farang woman exterior.

On that conclusion, we toasted our last drinks to the balmy, sparkling night sky. She reached for a napkin, dabbed across her pretty pale features, flipped her honey brown hair to wipe her milky nape and brow that framed her piercing grey-green eyes. This scene, all at once, gave me the impression that no matter how splendid the view, the city can sometimes be unkind to those who are not designed for it.

Graphic Designer : Supphathada Numamnuay supphathada@scandmedia.com Distribution : Wanvisa Rattanaburi wanvisa@scandmedia.com Printing : Lake & Foundtain Printing Co., Ltd.

Daily news and features here: www.scandasia.com Front cover image courtesy of Wachiraporn Janrut

Samantha P. is of Thai race but born and raised in Australia.

Six years ago, her intention was to return to Thailand to study but she chose to re-migrate permanently to her mother’s country. She has been living between Bangkok and Phuket ever since. A self confessed fun junkie, Samantha has been writing and sharing her alternative outlook of the world from a young age. In constant pursuit of decadence, Samantha’s brazenly outspoken character has led to somewhat a notorious figure in the Bangkok’s ex-pat social networking scene. Love or hate her impetuous style, it commands your attention.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BY SCANDINAVIAN SOCIETY

Coming Events

Annual Information Meetings Date: 21 January 2013, 11.00 a.m.

Location: Methavalai Hotel in Cha Am The Norwegian Embassy in Bangkok is inviting all Norwegians to participate in its Annual Information Meetings which will start at Methavalai Hotel in Cha Am on 21 January. The purpose of the meetings is to give the Embassy a possibility to meet Norwegians in the area and to present its consular staff.

The meetings will also take place in Udon Thaini, Phuket and Pattaya. The programme is here below: Cha Am: 21 January 2013 at Methavalai Hotel Cha Am Udon Thani: 23 January 2013 at Charoen Hotel, Udon Thani Phuket: 24 January 2013 at Kata Beach resort, Kanda Hall Pattaya: 25 January 2013 at Jomthien Garden Resort For more information, visit www.nordmennihuahin.com

Thailand Industrial Fair 2013 Date: 31 January – 3 February 2013 Location: Bitec Bangna – BTS Bangna The fair will feature a wide range of industrial products and services such as machinery, tools, material handling, pumps & valves, metal working, electrical equipment and etc. Visitors can expect a Grand Sales Promotion of up to 30%-70% discount from the exhibitors at the fair. It’s a good place to meet new suppliers.

Conference and seminars held by industrial experts and institutes are available at free of charge for visitors who want to expand their business vision.

For more information, visit www.thailandindustrialfair.com

TSCC Monthly Networking Date: 7 February 2013, 6.30 p.m.

Location: Please check the chamber’s website for updates The Thai-Swedish Chamber of Commerce is organising its next monthly networking event on 7 February 2013 for participants to share views and exchange information. The first keg of beer and snacks at the event will be sponsored by Securitas, a leading Security company.

For more information, visit www.swecham.com

The joys of riding a motorcycle Date: 16 February 2013, 3.00 p.m. – 6.00 p.m.

Location: TBA

“Siam Apps” Exhibition Date: 29 November 2012 – 17 February 2013 Location: Bangkok Art and Culture Centre - Exhibition Hall on the 8th floor Siam Apps Exhibition presents Thai arts through photo exhibition, demonstrations, and workshops.

The apps here refer to ‘Application, Appreciate, and Apply”. If you want to understand Thai arts, this is an event not to be missed. Inspired by Buddhism and local Thai cultures, the exhibition features contemporary Thai arts and a display of how they have been developed from traditional Thai arts in the old days.

For more information, visit www.bacc.or.th

6 ScandAsia.Thailand • January 2013

Danish ambassador Mikael Hemniti Winther is inviting you to join an afternoon matinee with him about a bike ride tour, where he will talk and comment on slides from his tours in Bangkok and Cambodia. Question and Answer session will take place after the presentation. “‘It is about the ride itself, about getting out of the limousine and about meeting ordinary people going about their daily lives,” says the ambassador.

Interested people are suggested to contact him as soon as possible. Price is about THB 600 per person, which will also include food and soft drinks.

For more information, contact Flemming_winther@hotmail.com or clausgundersen@gmail.com or call 0837 823579, 0886 224218

Past Events

Christmas rocks the Ambassador’s garden

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he Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce’s (DanCham) yearly Christmas Lunch was successfully held on 30 November 2012.

In Bangkok, more than 200 members and friends of the Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce attended this festive occasion at the Danish Ambassador’s residence, which had been transformed into a lovely party venue with white tents and Christmas decorations that all together helped provide an early Christmas spirit.

Once again, Jyske Bank and PANDORA were the main sponsors of the event. To maintain the reputation as the “most Danish” Christmas Lunch outside Denmark, the right combination of Danish Christmas dishes and Snaps is crucial.

The notable line up of tasty Christmas food was provided by Stable Lodge - one of the few Danish restaurants in Bangkok. Afterwards, the traditional dessert “Ris á la Mande” (rice pudding topped with cherry sauce) was served with a surprise gift for whoever found a whole almond in his/her portion. Carlsberg was the kind sponsor of the prize (mandelgave).

Besides the free flow of snaps, guests enjoyed a free flow of Carlsberg beers served directly from ice cold boxes. Throughout the Christmas Lunch, the Thai Jazz Band performed wonderful beats and was suddenly accompanied by the Ambassador himself, who ensured that this Christmas Lunch would not pass without a proper Rock’n’Roll touch.

After the surprise performance by the Ambassador, the lucky draw prizes were given away as winners were called. This year there were various attractive prizes from respectively AVISTA, Designers Field, ECCO, Georg Jensen, Grand Millennium Sukhumvit, Pandora, Pharma Nord, Visit Beyond, Royal Copenhagen, Scandproducts and Stable Lodge! An impressive number of raffle tickets were sold during the lunch once again.

Close encounter with the Consulate of Sweden

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11 Swedes have recently visited the new Consulate of Sweden in Hua Hin and attended a meeting at the Dusit Thani Hotel Hua Hin. The newly appointed Honorary Consul, Victor Sukseree and Consul Pär Kågeby presented the consulate’s functions and services it provides to the local Swedish community.

After the presentations, pea soup and pancakes were served at the event

8 ScandAsia.Thailand • January 2013

First Sunday of advent celebrated in Bangkok

Past Events

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n 2 December 2012, the Swedish community in Bangkok celebrated the first Sunday of Advent at the Swedish Ambassador’s residence in Ekamai, Bangkok.

More than 250 Swedes and other Scandinavians turned up at the residence to participate in Advent worship. Glass doors were open out to the garden and thereby enabled more people to listen to the priest’s words and sing the old beloved hymns together. Those who did not fit inside benched themselves in the shade under the trees.

After the service, the traditional Christmas market was open in the garden with several booths including the Swedish church and Finnish church. The Swedish Church sold, as in previous years, traditional Swedish Christmas bread flavored with wort, mulled wine and saffron bread.

This year some new products were added: fudge and toffee, flowers and Christmas goats made of recycled paper by women in the slums. The Finnish Church sold Christmas Coffee and Fyns Bakery offered wonderful marzipan. Craft products were for sale at the event.

Children joined the making of their own Christmas crackers and Christmas tree decorations. A Santa Claus was seen in his big armchair telling stories to children at the event. After a Santa’s visit, a lottery draw took place.

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8/29/11 1:57 PM January 2013 • ScandAsia.Thailand 9

Past Events

Nordic Networking with Nordea Singapore Team

By Rose Jensen

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ponsored by Nordea Bank Singapore, the Nordic Chambers’ networking event was held at The Sala, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit in Bangkok on 21 November 2012.

Approximately 120 Nordics attended the event and got to speak with the staff from Nordea while catching up with old friends as well as meeting new acquaintances.

Nordea has been active in Singapore since 1980.

Their customers are mainly International shipping, Nordic companies, their affiliates doing business in Asia and local regional clients of Nordic companies.

During the evening, Eric Pedersen, Head of Private Bangking and Funds, grabbed the microphone and expressed his joy of, once again, seeing such a large turnout of people and that he and his colleagues from Singapore would be available to all guests for any questions or inquiries.

After a brief introduction to members of the Nordea Singapore team, the networking evening kicked off and participants enjoyed themselves for hours in the extremely cozy surroundings at the Sheraton’s beautiful Pool Deck.

Cozy evening with the Ambassador of Norway

By Rose Jensen

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he Norwegians in Pattya gather every Wednesday at the Seamen’s Churh. However, it was a rather special Wednesday evening on 12 December 2012 when Ambassador Katja Nordgaard came all the way from Bangkok to join them. At the event, she told the residents what life is like as an ambassador as well as her involvement in developing Norwegian engagement in Myanmar.

There was good attendance in a friendly atmosphere. Tasty Christmas food was available for all participants to enjoy.

10 ScandAsia.Thailand • January 2013

Past Events

Visa Fast Track Service Seminar held at the Embassy

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n 23 November 2012, the Royal Danish Embassy, in collaboration with the Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce, held a seminar about the Visa Fast Track Service for Corporate Members of the chamber at the Embassy.

16 participants from 10 different companies together with representatives from the Visa Application Centre, VFS and the Danish-Thai Chamber participated in the seminar.

The Embassy explained about the general Schengen rules, application procedures and requirements for a business visa according to the Fast Track agreement.

It was stressed that even though the Embassy has waived some rules for the Corporate Members of the Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce, there are still some regulations that have to be followed in order to issue a Schengen visa.

The seminar was conducted by Visa Attaché Ms. Eva Szeftel and Visa Officer Ms. Jatuporn Kimsuntorn who held most of the presentation in Thai which was highly appreciated by the participants.

Visa Attaché Ms Eva Szeftel explaining about the Fast Track Agreement

Fast Track Agreement The Fast Track agreement was introduced in October 2011 for the Corporate Members of the Danish Thai Chamber of Commerce, who have signed an agreement with the Royal Danish Embassy in Bangkok and the Danish-Thai Chamber. The companies’ employees frequently travel to Denmark and often with a short notice.

The benefits for the members include: 1) visa will be issued within five days, 2) less documents to be submitted, 3) visa applicants do not need to apply in person and 4) standard long term visa with multiple entries will be issued.

For more information, contact the Chamber Secretariat at contact@dancham.or.th or the Royal Danish Embassy’s Visa Section at bkkamb@um.dk

Visa Officer Ms Jatuporn Kimsuntorn explaining about the Schengen rules

January 2013 • ScandAsia.Thailand 11

Past Events

Nissa Nyberget’s brilliant performance in Pattaya

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issa Nyberget and friends entertained approximately 170 guests at the Norwegian Seamen’s Church in Pattaya on 7 November 2012 with their great performance.

Being a famous Norwegian freelance musician, songwriter, artist, producer, presenter and director, Nissa Nyberget together with his friends created a wonderful jam at the special musical event.

The event was much appreciated by many guests.

One guest said “Tonight I had my best music experience ever”.

Nissa Nyberget was joined by some other fantastic musical talents such as Cha Am, bassist Åge Haugan, drummer Arne Østerberg and guitarist Freddy Nyquist.

Morten Golten rolled out music playing on his hammon organ. Svein Finnstad, Per Ola and other great musical entertainers also participated. Trond Myhre, a well-known musician from Norway and director in an Event Burau, also played on accordion with such musical spirit.

What made the concert even more memorable and special were the new music facilities. On behalf of Event Burau, Trond Myhre presented brand new music equipment to the Seamen’s Church donated to honor Frode Andrè Bjørkli, a deceased colleague from Event Burau and former worker at Seamen’s Church in New York. These new musical facilities have lifted the audible experience to a spectacular one.

Lucia celebration at Dusit Thani Hua Hin

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he celebration of Lucia at Dusit Thani hotel in Hua Hin on 13 December 2012 attracted over a hundred visitors. While 75 people had signed up beforehand to enjoy the Swedish Association’s Luciafestivities and buffet, an additional 30 – namely children, parents and teachers from the Swedish school, Sanuk and many hotel guests – attended the event without prior registration.

The event was well progressed. The children in the Lucia-parade performed exceptionally well and seemed to be having a wonderful time. The Dusit Thani aims to make the Lucia-parade a tradition at the hotel.

Guests enjoyed a buffet at the event which featured delectable dishes and treats from Thai, Swedish and international cuisines.

12 ScandAsia.Thailand • January 2013

Swedish Association’s ladies lunch

Past Events

By Rose Jensen

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n 22 November 2012, the Swedish Association’s ladies lunch was held at restaurant the Brasserie de Paris in Hua Hin, featuring a guest speaker Dr. Ungsana Uarakpong, the renowned Rheumatologist and specialist in Osteoporosis from Bangkok Hospital.

Dr. Ungsana is a highly regarded authority in the science of Osteoporosis, a very common ailment for women above 50 years of age in Europe and America.

At the event, Dr. Ungsana informed how the ladies could keep prolong health in their older years. People who have already been diagnosed with symptoms of Osteoporosis were given advice on medical treatments including a change of lifestyle habits involving more exercise and improved diets.

Dr. Ungsana concluded the event by presenting the guests with a folder containing a special offer from Bangkok Hospital for a health examination. Furthermore, guests were offered a special price for examinations for BMD and osteoporosis.

The Lunch was attended by around 40 engaging and enthusiastic women.

Dr. Ungsana Ukarapong from Bangkok Hospital in Hua Hin received a bunch of flowers from Ms. Margareta Olsson, Swedish Association Hua Hin

News Brief

More Danes come for dental care in Thailand

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hailand’s dental industry has seen an increasing number of Danes coming for dental care and treatments because of its reasonable price, convenience and high quality.

It is quite cheaper to have teeth sorted in Thailand than it is at home. Attaching a crown costs around 8000 baht, which corresponds to approximately 1500 DKK. In Denmark, cost of the same treatment often ranges from DKK 5000 and up.

“A visit to a Thai dentist can save people a lot of money. Often, they can save half or two-thirds of the bill in relation to a dental care at home. So there will be a little more for the holidays,” says Nalinee Pananon, Chief of the Tourist Authority of Northern Thailand.

According to the Ekstra Bladet, concerns among customers are whether the Thai dental care is up to par with the international standard, and if they will have problems communicating with the doctors. But the problems have been resolved in Thailand - several clinics now have been internationally accepted and most dentists speak good English.

However, Dental Association in Denmark has stated its concerns to Danes who are considering dentistry abroad.

“You lose the consistency of the treatment, which is achieved by going with the same dentist over time. You should also be aware that you cannot complain or seek redress in Denmark over a treatment carried out abroad,” said Claus Jørgensen, Communications Manager at Dental Association

Suspicious call from Sweden Vizrt to upgrade on-air graphics for Channel 3 Thailand

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orwegian graphics provider Vizrt Ltd. announced on 22 November 2012 that a new deal worth USD 360,000 has been signed for the implementation of broadcast graphics products with BEC Broadcasting Center Co., Ltd. (Channel 3) in Thailand, reports Reuters.

Channel 3 has been Vizrt’s customer since 2007 and already has a wide range of Vizrt’s products at its broadcast center. This new purchase is part of an HD upgrade and additional Viz Engines for rendering graphics in real-time for on-air use. It also includes Viz Trio, Vizrt’s character generator (CG), which will control the content that is sent to air.

Viz Ticker3D is now added to their on-air graphics systems in each of their studios. This will allow Channel 3 to have live data-driven graphics displayed at all times as a ticker on the screen.

“With the purchase of Viz Media Engine earlier this year and now this new investment, BEC Broadcasting Center Co is fast becoming one of Vizrt’s largest customers in the region,” stated Martin Burkhaulter, Vizrt CEO. “This deal is another example of how Vizrt is a partner in growth for many of our customers, rather than just a supplier of technology. As our clients expand, either to new markets or to capture greater market share, we are right there with them to provide the tools that enable them to do so.”

14 ScandAsia.Thailand • January 2013

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hai Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yubamrung has disclosed on 11 December 2012 that he has been contacted by a man who claimed to be one of the leaders of Thailand’s far-south insurgency. The unidentified man told Chalerm he was interested to have a peace talk, reports Thaipost.net.

The Deputy PM said he has ordered the authority to verify the information, and if the claims are true, he is willing to negotiate with him in Sweden.

On 11 December 2012, Chalerm was appointed director of the operations centre for implementation of policies and strategies for solving problems in southern border provinces.

News Brief

Expired travel insurance could cost the Bruem’s family up to 4million baht

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ric Bruem, 22, from Norway, was on a holiday in Thailand with two friends when the car accident happened on 27 November 2012 in Hua Hin, 200km south of Bangkok. A car of Eric’s friend hit the crash barrier between the lanes in a heavy rain, leaving Eric severely injured. His friend has been brought back to Norway with minor injuries.

Eric, in a coma, was being treated at the private hospital in Hua Hin when the Bruem’s family flew from Norway to be by his side. But the Bruem’s are as worried about their son’s condition as they are about the medical fees that could cost them a good half a million NOK (approximately 2 million baht), because of Eric’s expired travel insurance.

“He had been there for half a year and it was not until after the accident that we realized that the travel insurance was only valid for trips lasting less than two months,” said Eric’s little sister Kine Bruem.

The family has estimated that the stay at the hospital would cost at least half a million NOK. In addition, Eric’s transportation by the ambulance plane back to Norway may cost up to another half a million NOK. And since Eric did not have valid travel insurance, all costs must be covered by the family.

Norwegian Foreign Ministry has stated that it was out of their hands with the Bruem’s financial situation.

“The embassies can help to find a good hospital and other practical things, but if an injury occurs outside the EU you get no financeial help from the Norwegian government,” Veslemøy Salvesen, Communication Advisor at the Ministry, told VG Nett.

Even though, Salvesen is uncertain of how often case like this has occurred in the past, she stated that it’s not unusual. “There are some Norwegians who have received a very unpleasant expense as a result of accidents while traveling without insurance.”

From left: Kine Bruem (20) and her big brother Eric Bruem (22)

One in five travellers is without insurance Euro-Center, a Nordic travel insurance company, estimates that one out of five travellers is traveling without an insurance.

“It’s like playing Russian roulette,” said Emma Elisabeth Vennesland, Deputy Communications at Euro-center.

“If the trip goes smoothly, then, it is good, but if the accident occurs, it can be very problematic for both the injured and the family to face the financial burden. It’s incredibly sad.”

“The Foreign Ministry has stated several times that their best advice is to only travel with insurance, and we are in total agreement,” said Leif Osland, Communications Director at Finance Norway (FNO), a trade organisation for banks, insurance companies and other financial institutions.

Figures from the FNO show that so far this year, there have been 221,000 total travel injuries that have been reported to insurance companies, which is an increase of seven percent over the same period last year.

Asking for help on Facebook Eric’s best friend Henrik Stene who first came with him on the trip, but was not present during the accident, together with Eric’s sister Kine has used the social media to help with the family’s financial situation.

The two started a Facebook group called “Hjelp til å få hjem Eirik Bruem!”, where they asked interested people to offer financial support for the cost of the ambulance plane to Norway.

A flight to save Eric Doctor Terje Erlid and another colleague left Norway on 19 November 2012 to Thailand on a mission to bring Eric home.

“We have reached an agreement with SAS to get the Norwegian home,” said Dr. Erlid.

“I have contributed several times to get home Norwegians or others from abroad. There are many who end up in hospitals abroad without travel insurance. I’ve previously been getting home a Norwegian from Florida to St. Olav’s Hospital,” he added.

According to a Norwegian news agency, Eric was scheduled to be admitted to St. Olav’s Hospital in Trondheim on 22 December 2012.

January 2013 • ScandAsia.Thailand 15

News Brief

TAT Targets Swedish Women for Wellness

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he Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Stockholm Office has launched the website www.amazingwellness.se to promote Thailand’s health and wellness tourism, especially to Swedish women and senior citizens. ‘’As a Buddhist country, Thailand is well-known for its beautiful temples, retreats and high-class spas,” says Mrs. Nalinee Pananon, the TAT’s Stockholm Office Director. ‘’As such, we are taking this opportunity to promote Thailand as the world’s leading country for spiritual and physical health. Key target markets are families and career women aged 30 and over,” adds Mrs. Pananon.

The idea of setting up the website emerged after the TAT organised a media familiarisation trip under the theme “Body & Soul Retreat”.

The media participants reported extensively on the broad range of Thai health and wellness products, facilities and services. Related articles are published in magazines such as Cosmopolitan Norway, Cosmopolitan Sweden, Allt om Resor, Topphalsa and Voi Hyvin.

After generating the high level of interest, TAT has launched the website to provide more detailed information for interested health and wellness travellers. Five categories on the website include Body & Soul; Live philosophy; Medical Tourism; Active vacation, and tips from travellers.

There are also details on Thai spas, yoga classes, meditation, detox, dental treatments, foot massage, and opportunities for physical activity.

More categories are to be added after evaluation of the feedback.

What the hack: SSS website hacked by an identified anonymous

By Sippachai Kunnuwong

16 ScandAsia.Thailand • January 2013

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n December, Robert Kronberg, chairman of Scandinavian Society Siam woke up to discover the association’s website had been turned into a total white background with one sentence appearing on top, “hacked by Siber Ordu.”

The hacker was identified on Facebook as ‘Siber Ordu zaza hacker,’ with the language detected to be Turkish. However, the SSS board decided not to press charges against him/ her.

“I don’t think police can do something about it because the hacker may not even be in Thailand. It would be a waste of time for us and for police,” Kronberg said in an interview with ScandAsia.

Even though, without further actions being done, the chairman is not happy about the incident: “It’s quite annoying that people are doing something like this. I understand that some people have their political issues but our association has never done anything to anybody.”

Kronberg, however, had a huge relief when he knew that the website’s database was still intact and the front page was immediately restored – with all the menu disappeared. The member database is not affected.

When asked of the hacker’s possible motives behind the incident, Kronberg said that he suspected it to be the nature of hackers – to hack – and thanks to the SSS website’s outdated security system, “it could be hacked easily.”

“Our current website is very old-fashioned and needs room for some improvements. We are taking this opportunity to revamp our page and make it more easily integrated with social media site like Facebook,” he added.

The Scandinavian Society Siam is now looking for a voluntary webmaster/web designer - either a private person or a company, to oversee the upgrading. (For more information, contact board@sss.or.th) Not exactly a new plan, the SSS board has been discussing to create a new website for quite some time. But the incident is a true tipping point.

News Brief

Royal Copenhagen becomes Finnish

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Royal Copenhagen’s trademark symbolises the three waterways of Denmark

innish giant Fiskars has acquired 100 percent ownership of Royal Copenhagen from the previous owner the Danish private equity group, Axcel. Fiskars had to pay DKK 490 million to acquire the 237-yearold royal porcelain brand, known for its hand-painted dinner service Flora Danica and Blue Fluted.

“I am proud to welcome Royal Copenhagen to our portfolio of esteemed brands which are renowned for their quality, design, longevity and rich heritages. Fiskars’ ambition in the Home business is to become a globally leading consumer goods company in Scandinavian design, and we are excited to bring together a unique dining offering consisting of Royal Copenhagen’s Danish hand-painted dining, Rörstrand’s elegant Swedish dining, Arabia’s Finnish homey dining, and Iittala’s contemporary design. Along with its world-class craftsmanship, Royal Copenhagen brings to Fiskars 30 years of valuable experience of operating in Asia, which will support our growth strategy outside the Nordic markets,” said Kari Kauniskangas, President and CEO of Fiskars.

Royal Copenhagen has been for sale for a long time and numerous rumours have been buzzing, since Axcel sold another Danish design brand Georg Jensen to Bahrain-based alternative asset manager Investcorp for DKK 809 million.

In 2004 Royal Copenhagen began to move its production to Thailand.

Today only the Flora Danica dinner service is produced in Denmark.

Danish Trade Minister led business delegation to Myanmar

Pia Olsen Dyhr, Danish Minister for Trade and Investment finds it positive that expanding Danish business interests in Myanmar can actually help secure a continuation of the the current democratic process in the country.

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anish Minister for Trade and Investment Pia Dyhr led a delegation of business leaders to Yangon in December 2012 with the aim to build up contacts and connect Danish businesses with Myanmar partners.

According to Myanmar Times, Ms. Dyhr met the deputy minister for commerce, the chairman of the Foreign Committee of Parliament, members of the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI) and local businesspeople during her visit. She also toured Yangon’s port district on 4 December 2012.

“It is interesting being in a country where you can actually support the democratic process by establishing good business connections,” she said of her visit to Myanmar. “If companies are willing to invest, you can create jobs in Myanmar and create more stability in the country.”

While Danish investment remains minimal, the delegation is the latest attempt to increase engagement with Myanmar. Denmark established a dip-

lomatic office with Norway in Yangon on 4 November 2012 and has doubled its aid to Myanmar by raising funding to nearly USD 18 million a year, with expectations of further increases in 2013.

Mr. Mikael Winther, the Danish ambassador to Thailand and Myanmar, said that while some small and medium Danish enterprises have a tendency not to stray too far from home when it comes to their investments, the country’s larger firms are looking at Myanmar with interest.

“Some of them [Danish companies] are not very adventurous,” said Mr. Winther. “They go to Germany and Sweden and England and the US but we also have some that are remarkably adventurous and skilled.”

Eighteen of these adventurous companies joined the minister on the trip to Myanmar including representatives from Danish Water Services, pharmaceutical supplier Novo Nordisk and dairy product manufacturer Arla Foods.

January 2013 • ScandAsia.Thailand 17

A shooting star

18 ScandAsia.Thailand • January 2013

Nicolas ‘Nick’ Normann is a rising star of golf. At the tender age of 11, he has won major tournaments for his age category and joined the ‘hole-in-one hall of fame’. Following his success, Nick now considers offering golf lessons to young Scandinavians in Thailand.

By Sippachai Kunnuwong Photos by Wachiraporn Janrut

I

t would have been a relaxing Sunday afternoon for some other children of his age. However, Nicolas ‘Nick’ Normann, a Thai-Danish young golfer with many winning titles under his cap, is experimenting something new on a driving range. He is teaching a 5-year-old how to swing.

Grab a golf club, set your body positions, concentrate and swing.

As easy as it sounds, to get the right result is difficult. For the beginners, you may end up missing the ball before even hitting it. Or the ball may drop a few metres away after the swing. But Nick has some tips: “It’s about consistency. Imagine that there’s an invisible line to when you swing the club backward and to land it right at the ball.”

Not a professionally trained coach, Nick leads his golf buddy, and myself, on the Golf 101 lesson; he teaches us the hand positions, the stand, and the swing, from his own experience.

The 11-year-old has been very competitive on golf courses for the last four years. He has won major tournaments in Thailand for his age category ‘10 and below’ and recently made a name on the hole-in-one hall of fame – twice.

Nick’s journey “Nick started to play in the real course when he was four,” Anders, Nick’s father, recalls. “But he was hitting plastic balls at home since he was a toddler.”

It is his natural talent, his father admits. But it may also be the athletic spirit in which Nick and his sister, who did well in the sport – she won a 100,000 baht prize in a tournament with 145 men when she was only seven – have inherited from their mother.

A very successful squash player, Orwan played for a Thai national team and was a coach in Hong Kong.

The athletic mother was also ranked number 7th in World’s squash.

However, it wasn’t necessarily a good start for the young Nick at the Royal Bangkok Sports Club. At the age of six, he competed in his first ever golf tournament and lost – he had the lowest score ever in the RBSC history for his category.

Nevertheless, with more practices and determination, it took him less than two years to improve. He became a winner of all the RBSC titles for his age category - 10 and below - for four consecutive years.

After adding his shelf of honor with winning statuettes and certified recognitions, Nick’s talent was discovered by Ping, the biggest

producer of golf equipment. Since he turned eight, he has been fully sponsored by the company – all his sportswear, the clubs and other equipment confirm the fact resonantly on the golf course.

Now, 11, Nick decides to play against older guys, aged between 12 and 15, to make it more challenging.

He’s currently number 3 on the rank.

Key to Golf “Golf’s a mental game,” Nick says.

“It’s about concentration. When you get worse than a par, you have to let go and think that there are many games left. Some people get angry which makes them lose the concentration and makes them hit badly the next hole.”

The experience in tournaments and practices have helped Nick become quite a pro-to-be in golf and expanded his knowledge and insight in the sport. But to be a professional golfer, winning tournaments and getting the hole-in-ones, he says, accuracy is key. “Your body should be aiming towards the goal.”

Nick said of his first hole-in-one being the proudest moment in his life – yet. “I was aiming for a birdie,

trying to get to the hole as much as possible. But I got better than I expected.” However, his ultimate dream is to compete in a PGA tour

- “to get to travel around the world and trying to win tournaments.”

But the path toward success needs practice, says his businessman father who has been supporting of his son and teaching him the essence of hard work.

“There’s a thing in golf, and Nick knows, is that there is no shortcuts, Nick has talents but he has to train.

If you don’t train, you’ll never be tough,” says Anders.

School is important Even though, his accomplishment on the golf course is tremendous – he was even touted on a Danish TV as the new Asian golf ‘Tiger’ – but he is not taking it all slightly when it comes to education.

“I think that now education is more important than golf,” Nick says. “Because you have to get scholarships through education.

When you can enter a good university and your education is done and then you can concentrate on what you feel like doing – for me, that’s golf.”

Come swing with Nick At home, apart from spending his time with family and skateboarding, his new found love, Nick is now taking on a new project that his dad has proposed – to coach golf.

“It would be a good idea for the Scandinavians in Bangkok or anywhere who have small children. They can use Nick as a coach. Normally, personal coaching may cost a thousand baht per hour but maybe he will coach for 200 baht,” Anders says.

He said that his son always practices at driving ranges and that the other children can come to learn and enjoy the sport under Nick’s guidance.

“When it comes to teaching, I just do what I know, what I’ve learned from the past years. I want to coach the kids, especially those at my age or younger, because they do the things that I do. We can talk and play and be friends,” Nick says.

For more information, contact Anders Normann at normann@nicolie-th.com

January 2013 • ScandAsia.Thailand 19

Securitas

Developing Thailand’s Swedish Daniel Holtsjö moved to Thailand in July 2012 to take over the position of Country President of Securitas (Thailand).

Daniel’s goal is for Securitas (Thailand) to improve the level of professionalism and perception of security in Thailand while concurrently growing the company to be a market leader in the Thai security service industry.

Photo by Wachiraporn Janrut

20 ScandAsia.Thailand • January 2013

security industry

A

fter leaving the Swedish Army, Daniel Holtsjo joined Securitas in Stockholm.

Daniel started off as a security guard and over his 17 years plus career was promoted to the positions of supervisor, inspector, branch manager and senior management. “I came from a military police background and joined Securitas as a security guard and worked my way up within the company. A lot of Securitas managers have started off as guards so they know the business from the ground up and understand the duties and appreciate the hardships of our security guards.

Additionally Securitas believes promoting from within gives its employees a chance to grow with the company,” says Daniel.

In 2008 Daniel was selected as Country President of Securitas (China) where he set up the company in Shanghai as Securitas’ initial footprint in Asia. After three years as Country President for Securitas China, Daniel was selected to be Country President for Securitas Thailand.

Daniel’s initial perception of the Thai security industry is that it appears security guarding has a poor perception here; it is not seen as a respectable profession. Much of these perceptions are a direct result of a lack of proper training and poor compensation for security guards.

“We are going to change this,” says Daniel. “If we want security officers to be professional we owe it to them to give them the proper training and respectable wages for the long hours they put in.”

Securitas Securitas was founded in 1934 in Sweden. The company provides a wide range of security services such as guarding, executive protection, security consultancy and security and safety related training to meet individual customer needs. Securitas also offers security systems which include cameras, access controls, and entry and fire alarm systems. In 1999,

Securitas acquired the first (and oldest) professional security company in the world – the American based “Pinkerton” company which was originally established in 1850, adding significantly to Securitas’ experience, capabilities, and customer base. After eighty years, Securitas is a global security market leader with over 300,000 employees worldwide. In Asia, Securitas currently operates out of eight countries including China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, Cambodia, Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia.

as well as the Kempinski, Amari, Holiday Inn and Hard Rock Hotel.

It also has prominent clients in other industries such as Caterpillar, CISCO, BMW, NIST, Singaporean School, AIT and BFS (Bangkok Flight Services). Scandinavian Electrolux and Tetra Pack are also among its clients. “We have international clients from Europe and the US that expect the same level of security services and professionalism here in Thailand,” says Daniel.

Professional security services

Daniel says Securitas is trying to change the industry from within now using the Thai military as one of its primary recruitment bases. Securitas Thailand has also identified elite security positions which it fills with exiting Thai Army Rangers and Special Forces.

“Using former Thai military personnel benefits Securitas in many ways. They not only bring special security skills sets because they are well-trained, but they are all self-motivated and possess high levels of discipline.” In an emergency situation, when our customers’ staff flee from danger, our security officers are trained to not only run to it, but then to handle the emergency situation itself,” says Daniel.

In Sweden, security companies are required to apply for a license and fulfill a minimum requirement to operate the business. In Thailand, anyone could start a security company tomorrow if they wanted to. Daniel says Securitas aims to work with the Thai government to set a minimum standard for the industry, where it aims to push for legal requirements, appropriate certifications, and appropriate wages for security guards.

“We have the responsibility to help perform at the same professional standards in Thailand as we do in Europe and in the US,” says Daniel.

The proposal for new legislation for security businesses has been in the parliament for a couple of years but it hasn’t been approved as a law yet.

There remain positive signals that it will happen in the future.

Securitas Thailand Established in 2008, Securitas Thailand employs over 1,700 staff spread over nine branches around the country. “Our goal is to leverage Securitas’ global experience and capabilities throughout Thailand,” says Daniel.

The company has already grown to include a long list of high profile clients from various industries. For the hospitality industry, Securitas’ clients include some of the leading international hotel brands such as the Minor Group’s Marriott, Four Seasons, and Anantara resorts;

Recruitment pool and training

Introducing a mobile patrol service – the cost-effective approach One specific application of ex-Thai Rangers is their use as mobile patrols.

In April 2012, Securitas Thailand introduced a mobile patrol service for clients that may not have a budget to have security guards onsite for 24 hours every day. With this service, the mobile guards patrol clients’ facilities and areas 2-3 times a night to make sure that everything is locked and safe and/or to assist guards on the site. In the event of an alarm activation or emergency situation, the mobile patrol team responds quickly to the client location. “This is something new in Thailand. It’s a modern and cost-effective solution already well developed in Europe.

Changing the perception of security jobs in Thailand Though the company has extensive global experience in the security industry, Daniel says it’s a challenge to change the perceived status of security careers in Thailand. Utilizing ex-army and special Thai forces personnel is a start. However another change has to be in the area of compensation, he says. “In the past, prior to 1st April 2012, security officer wages were very low. Security officers had to sometimes work another job or constantly put in for overtime just to meet their family’s financial responsibilities. This resulted in a guard who was tired, not alert, and all this contributed to the poor perception of the security industry. If security guards are working 24 hours a day, it’s impossible to provide a professional service to clients,” says Daniel.

With the 1st April 2012 government mandated wage increases, and the second round of wage increases coming on 1st January 2013, security officers are now in a position where they receive proper wages to meet their needs without having to work another job. They now are in a position to take pride in doing their primary job. And because of the higher wages, we are now in a position to be very selective in who we hire to wear the Securitas uniform. This is a win for our company and a win for our security guards; however it has come at a greater cost to our customers. When wages are increased so must our contracted rates for security services. “We don’t aim to make high profits here. The majority of income goes directly to pay our security officers’ wages,” says Daniel.

In order to service clients more effectively, a professional security approach is crucial. Daniel says that the company aims to be the most professional security service provider in the industry. “Someone has to take the lead and show that security is a needed profession and one to be proud of. We aspire for the position in Thailand and in every country where we operate,” he adds.

January 2013 • ScandAsia.Thailand 21

Swedish Associa From a small fishing village, Hua Hin has become one of Thailand’s major tourist destinations with a fast growing expat community.

Among the nationalities of expats living there, the number of Swedes has increased rapidly in the last decade.

Gert Andersson and his wife Margareta Olsson, together with their close friend Lars Olof Fagerström, founded the Swedish Association in Hua Hin four years ago as a meeting point for Swedes who live in the area.

By Wachiraporn Janrut

22 ScandAsia.Thailand • January 2013

ation in Hua Hin G

ert Andersson, the president of Swedish Association in Hua Hin, has been in Thailand for over seven years. The retired 73-yearold was invited by a friend to buy a house at ‘Ban Thai Village’ in Hua Hin in 2004, which at the time consisted of about eight to ten houses.

Since Gert has visited Hua Hin many times before, he was interested and later decided to buy a house there.

“Though it’s not in the centre of town, it’s nice and peaceful here and there is a bus going to town regularly which is convenient for us. When we have dinner or a drink in town, sometimes we don’t want to drive and we take a bus,” Gert says as he sits down comfortably talking to us.

His two-storey house is indeed located in a tranquil area of Hua Hin where you can’t hear traffic noise from the main road. The house is pleasant as it is surrounded by a small garden, a private swimming pool and some trees planted as a wall. It’s no surprise why the couple decided to buy the house – it’s a proper tropical

holiday home.

“There are over 50 houses in the village now. Our neighbors are from many countries such as Canada, England, and the U.S. It’s a very international environment here,” says Margareta while treating us to a tasty salad for lunch.

Establishment of the Swedish Association With the Swedish community growing substantially in Hua Hin, the Swedish Association was founded four years ago as a platform for Swedes to network and learn from each other.

“We started by meeting at a small Swedish restaurant in the middle of Hua Hin thinking there would be just about 30-35 people turning up. But it turned out to be 68 people so we needed to find somewhere else for our meeting,” says Gert.

The meeting point changed to a spacious restaurant called “3 Girls” at Mooban Smorprong in Hua Hin. Gert says that since then, the number of members has increased very quickly.

Within four years, the association has grown to include over 800 members nowadays.

The association organises various activities for members to participate.

A networking event is held on last Thursday of every month, except summertime. At this event, traditional Swedish food including yellow pea soup with bacon mustard, and Swedish pancake and jam are served every time.

“Normally there are between 120 – 150 participants, but the highest number on record is 212 participants,” says Gert.

On various occasions, well-respected people from many industries such as bank, healthcare, real estate, law and the embassy are invited to speak at the networking events.

“We discuss problems with each other and exchange experiences.

We give news and try to help each other here,” says Gert.

In addition, members can get together to participate in activities such as playing bowls, golf, or joining classes e.g. Learning Thai-language, organised by the association.

Swedish Ambassador to Thailand Mr. Klas Molin at the consulate opening in Hua Hin with Gert Andersson, Margareta Olssan and friends

Connection with the Immigration and the Swedish Embassy Today the association has a good relationship with the Swedish embassy and the local immigration office.

According to Gert, a few years ago the Immigration Bureau in Bangkok demanded the local immigration office in Hua Hin to move to the centre of Prachuap Khirikhan province.

If the plan succeeded, the relocation would mean all Swedes would have to travel the lengthy journey to Prachupa Khirikhan every three months to do their 90-day reports.

“That was not good news because it is so far from Hua Hin. It doesn’t make sense that we have to travel 250km just to get the paper stamped. And there are hundreds of us living here,” says Gert.

With his determination to help, Gert negotiated with the Immigration Bureau in Bangkok.

“I negotiated with them and said it was not correct. Also, together with other people, we could stop them from relocating the immigration office. The immigration office here was also pleased about that,” says Gert with a smile while showing a certificate he received from the local immigration office. “They also gave me a certificate showing their appreciation when I visited them after that.”

Swedish consulate opening The good news is that the Swedish Consulate in Hua Hin opened at the Dusit Thani Hua Hin in September 2012 to service the large number of Swedes in the area.

As the president of the Swedish Association, Gert also gave a speech at the opening event where he thanked the Swedish embassy and congratulated the new honorary consul Khun Victor. Gert welcomed Khun Victor by offering him a basket filled with Swedish delicacies including a glass of marinated herring, a can of pickled or matjes-herring, a bottle of Swedish snaps, Pirantens besk, Kalles Kaviar and a package of hard bread called ‘knackebrod’.

For more information, visit www.svenskforeningenhuahin.se January 2013 • ScandAsia.Thailand 23

Castaway

on Koh Ngai As I was traveling around the Andaman Sea, doing stories on the region for Scandasia, my boss, Gregers Moller, called and told me to go do a story on the attractions of Koh Ngai. “Can do, Khun Moller,” is the natural response from an intern, but the trip turned out to be somewhat of a challenge.

By Dennis Krog

R

eaching Koh Ngai in the low season is not easy as there are no ferries going there. I contacted the front desk at the hotel I stayed at on Koh Lanta to hear if they could help me.

“Why” the receptionist replied when I told her I wanted to visit Koh Ngai, and maybe that should have been a warning sign, but I didn’t pay attention.

However, the kind lady arranged for the crazy farang (me, ed.) to go on a snorkeling trip, which would see me being dropped off at Koh Ngai.

The next day I boarded a long tail boat full of tourists getting ready for a day of snorkeling. Everybody was looking at me carrying me entire luggage and I could hear them whisper, trying to guess where I was going.

Having everyone wondering what my destination was made me feel cool, but it didn’t last long as I tripped looking for a seat on the boat and lost my balance. The fall made me drop my phone out of my hand into some water on the bottom of the boat. I picked it up. Apparently my phone wasn’t waterproof.

Feeling cool Approaching Koh Ngai I slowly gained my coolness back as captain Nemo yelled out to me.

“Where you go on Island?” he asked and pointed to an Island I could only assume was Koh Ngai.

I had never been there before, but trying to look like an expert on remote islands, I just pointed to the middle of the beach, pretending I knew exactly where I was. Everybody on the boat, including a beautiful Russian girl, was looking at me. Now I was back to being cool after my phone incident.

Close to the Island I jumped into the water. Mr. Nemo first gave me my flip-flops, which I in an extremely cool and nonchalant way threw on to the beach. Next my bag went on my shoulder, and as I walked towards the beach I could feel the eyes of the others on the boat looking at me.

Maybe the Russian girl was looking as well? I quickly turned around, only to find out that her eyes were locked on her iPhone.

All Alone Standing on the beach of Koh Ngai I realized that I was stepping on the sand of paradise. I looked around, taking in the scenery, beautiful. But then it hit me. I was completely alone.

I started walking up and down the beach, but I didn’t see one single person. After 30 minutes the sweat on my forehead was not only a testament of the heat – I was panicking.

However, at the last resort on the beach my luck changed as a handful of workers were doing restoration on some bungalows. They said I could stay there, and they even had a fridge full of beer and food. Perfect!

Mister, no boat After leaving my suitcase in my bungalow I went to the beach where I sat down under a palm tree, reading a book. I had no contact to the outer world, but it felt good. I can do this for a day, I thought to myself.

One hour later I went to the fridge to get a beer, and I told one of the workers that I wanted to leave early the next day. The Thai worker looked at me as if I just asked him if I could marry his sister.

“Mister, maybe boat tomorrow, maybe two days, maybe three,” he said.

I went back to the shadow of my palm tree. What to do? I had interviews lined up the following days, but I could not contact anybody. I had no phone and there was no internet on the Island.

Dwelling on the situation for an hour I suddenly saw a long tail boat coming to the island with a couple of extra workers, and with the determination you only see in the eyes of women shopping for shoes, I went and asked for a lift back to the mainland.

“Can do” the answer was, and I quickly got my luggage and left my palm tree.

The boss found it hilarious Sailing away from the island, just hours after the first captain Nemo dropped me off, certainly didn’t help me feeling like a world explorer. Getting a new phone and calling my boss didn’t help either.

“A helpless journalist panicking after two hours on an Island in Thailand. You have to write that story,” he laughed, almost killing himself, listening to my story.

“Can do,” I had to reply, knowing that the story would make me look anything but cool. But here it is…

24 ScandAsia.Thailand • January 2013

The first LUCE Italian restaurant in Asia opens at Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn

O

For reservations, call Luce 02 210 8100 or email luce@eastingrandsathorn.com or visit www.eastingrandsathorn.com

pening in May 2012, Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn Bangkok is conveniently located in central business district on Sathorn road, where it is right next to the Surasak BTS station with the sky bridge linking to the hotel’s entrance.

The hotel consists of 390 rooms and suites - all equipped with luxury amenities. Facilities include banquet and conference room, infinity swimming pool, fitness centre, free internet, business centre, doctor (24 hours), babysitting service, executive floors, family floors and many more.

To serve both guests and Bangkok diners, the hotel offers four restaurants including The Glass House, Chefman, Swizzles, and LUCE Italian restaurant which opened in December.

Luce is located on the 14th floor adjacent to the stylish infinity swimming pool area offering a striking view of Bangkok. The innovative and healthy Italian-inspired menu was created by Executive Chef Roberto Bellitti who flew directly from Italy to take up the challenge in opening the first LUCE Italian Restaurant in Asia.

The restaurant also features a good selection of fine wines from the award-winning Frescobaldi and Luce wineries along with many other world class vineyards, plus an array of imaginative cocktails and a full international beer and spirit list.

Guests can either dine or relax and have a drink in the tranquil al fresco ambiance high above the city while listening to the house sounds of a resident DJ. Luce is open for lunch from 11.30am to 2.30pm and dinner from 6.30pm – 10.30pm. Bar and Lounge area is open from 10am to midnight.

Señor Pico officially re-opens at Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok

A

fter undergoing renovations, the new Señor Pico Mexican restaurant re-opened in style with a fun party held on 14 December 2012 at the Rembrandt Hotel on Sukhumvit Soi 18.

The grand re-opening party started with an imposing salsa dance performance coming down the stairs of the main lobby, followed by a cameo appearance of the New “Señor Pico” who invited all guests up to the restaurant.

Delectable Mexican treats, signature cocktails including Sangria and Margaritas, beer and tequila sponsored by Italasia were available for guests to enjoy. The new Chef Fernando Reyes Barba from Mexico was introduced at the event. A live band entertained guests at the party until late.

Costing over THB 30 million, the new Señor Pico has upgraded its design, upsized its dance floor and expanded with an interactive and modern concept offering an intimate atmosphere to customers. The updated menu will allow diners to sample a variety of creative food ranging from a light snacks to entire meals.

The new bar is set to offer a selection of signature, classic and contemporary cocktails including Mojito, Piña Colada, Cosmopolitan, 50 choices of exotic tequilas as well as a selection of international beverages formulated specifically for Señor Pico.

Rembrandt hotel is conveniently located on Sukhumvit soi 18 near the central business district and shopping attractions. It is a short walk from Asoke BTS and Sukhumvit MRT stations.

For more information, call 02 261 7100 or visit www.rembrandtbkk.com 26 ScandAsia.Thailand • January 2013

Crepes & Co. opens in Hua Hin

F

ollowing the success of its Bangkok branches, Crepes & Co. French and Mediterranean restaurant has opened in Hua Hin. The grand opening was celebrated in the presence of local business people, Hua Hin socialites and long-time customers of its Bangkok restaurants. The restaurant’s signature dishes and drinks were served at the party which went on until late. The owner Serge Bruttin gave a speech to thank all guests for their presence and dedicated the opening to Philippe, his deceased brother, the creator of Crepes & Co. concept, who would have been 47 years old on the opening day.

Crepes & Co. Hua Hin is set amidst a large tropical garden, offering a warm touch in a gorgeous ambience with lots of space and greenery.

The restaurant features the outdoor bar and a tropical thatched roof sala, alfresco tables, and the indoor air conditioning room with its signature open kitchen. A playground is also available for kids.

The great selection of tasty food includes 100 specialties of Crêpes (savoury, sweet or flambées), Mediterranean salads, Specialties from Morocco, Greece and Spain as the Bruttin brothers had lived in these countries and brought with them all their best recipes. The drinks menu is also extensive.

The restaurant also offers a Brunch Menu with choices including Full Brunch at THB 490, Breakfast Club at THB 340, Coffee & Co at THB 260 and Oriental Set at THB 250.

The restaurant is located 1km west of the city centre at the beginning of the road leading to the by-pass and Pala-U waterfall. It is opposite Hua Hin Huaymongkol Soi 19. Ample parking is available.

For more information, call 032 827 248-9 or visit crepesnco.com

Valentine’s BBQ seafood buffet offer

at Koh Yao Yai Village, The Island Hideaway, Phang-nga

F

or anyone looking for a romantic getaway this Valentine’s Day, consider a holiday with a candle light seafood dinner at Koh Yao Yai Village.

Located on the secluded island in Andaman Sea, Koh Yao Yai Village offers guests opportunity to experience the traditional Thai island life while relaxing in a beautiful tranquil setting. And it is only 30 minutes by Resort Boat from Phuket or Krabi.

Nestled amongst lush sub-tropical rainforest, rice fields and rubber plantations, the resort consists of 66 unique, detached, indoor/outdoor bungalows or villas across 32 acres land.

Guests can also enjoy various activities such as island exploring, snorkeling, canoeing/kayaking, beach games, jungle walks, mountain biking, shopping at the local market, experiencing village life, long-tail boat rides and spa treatments.

On 14 February 2013, the resort will offer a Valentine’s BBQ seafood buffet deal at THB 950 net per person at its Khayee restaurant. Entertainments include live band and games for couples to enjoy.

For more information, call 076 363 700 or visit www.kohyaoyaivillage.com 28 ScandAsia.Thailand • January 2013

Medium

Boiled cod with mustard sauce

is not just for New Year’s Eve

Evil

By Kim Birkkjaer Lund

H

aving boiled cod with mustard sauce is a tradition for many Danes on New Year’s Eve. After having eaten heavy and rich food through Christmas, the light fish dish is a popular tradition in many families.

But if you missed the boiled cod and the mustard sauce on New Year’s Eve, there is no reason for not serving it any time in January or any other months of the year. Because of its dense, flaky white flesh and mild flavour, boiled cod is a popular dish even among people who don’t appreciate fish in general.

If you can’t get the real North Atlantic cod, other white flesh fish as Hoki or even Pangasius can be used as substitutes.

Ingredients: • 1 kg. Cod • 2 litre Water • 1 tsp Salt • Dill • 10 Peppercorns • 2 tbsp Vinegar • 4 Eggs • 200 g. Bacon, diced • 300 g. Beetroot, pickled • 2 Onions • 4 tbsp Capers • 100 g. Horseradish • 1 kg. Potatoes Sauce • 30 g. Butter • 2 tbsp wheat flour • 3 tbsp Coarse grained mustard • 500 ml Fish broth from cooking cod • 100 ml Cream

Are you done?

W

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

Name:

___________________________________________________

Age: ________________________

Mobile:

___________________

Address:

__________________________________________________

__________________________________________________

__________________________________________________

Email:

__________________________________________________

Deadline for submitting your solution is 15 February 2013 30 ScandAsia.Thailand • January 2013

Directions: Fry the bacon until it’s crisp and golden. Dice the pickled beetroot. Grate the horseradish.

Finely chop the onions. Boil the eggs and chop them so that the mixture becomes yellow throughout. Boil the potatoes until tender.

Cut the cod in portion pieces and cover with plenty of water.

Add peppercorns, salt, dill and vinegar. Bring it to boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Gently lift the cod pieces out of the pot and place them on a serving dish.

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over a low heat, then add the flour and stir until it forms a smooth paste that comes away from the sides of the pan. Strain 500ml of the cooking liquid from the cod, and add it gradually to the pan, stirring well after each addition so that no lumps form as the sauce thickens. Add the mustard and cream, stir again until the sauce is smooth and just coming to the boil – don’t let it boil as the mustard can turn bitter. Then season with salt and pepper.