JUN 2011
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Coming Events The Reception of the 84th Birthday Anniversary of H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej Date: 14 - 19 June, 2011 Location: Queen Sirikit National Convention Center On the auspicious occasion of the 84th Birthday of His Majesty’s King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand in December 2011, The Treasury Department organizes the exhibition of The Reception of the 84th Birthday Anniversary of H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej during 14 -19 June 2011. Come and experience what our King has done for his people.
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: Lake & Foundtain Printing Co., Ltd.
Daily news and features here: www.scandasia.com
BRAND’S Crossword Game King’s Cup & BRAND’S Sudoku Thailand International Open
YOGA
Free Yoga Class & LUNCHEON
Ladies Luncheon in Hua Hin
Looking for ways to restore your energy, calm
your mind, pamper your appetite and eliminate
Yoga class, thrilling three-course luncheon (in-
those afternoon "blahs." with a lot of laughter?
cluding 1 glass of Wine (red/white), free ßow of water, tea and coffee) and a special tour at
Join the Hua Hin Ladies International for free Yoga Class followed by luncheon, June 7 at 12:30 at Hyatt Regency
Date: 25 - 26 June 2011 Location: Royal Paragon Hall
The Barai Spa after lunch.
Hua Hin (91 Khao Takiap Road).
Total price: 500 Baht per person.
If you prefer only lunch, it starts at 13.45 at the McFarland restaurant.
This event is organized by Thailand Crossword Game, A-MATH, KUMKOM, and SUDOKU Association. One of the world’s most exciting and challenging event of the year with the winner’s prize of USD 10,000. This year, let’s celebrate the wonderful 26th year of Crossword Game in Thailand and be a part of the greatest history. This spectacular event will bring you to the world of real sport competition with an exciting and challenging atmosphere. Please find details of the tournament at www. thaicrossword.com or email info@thaicrossword.com.
Date: 7 July 2011 Location: Hyatt Regency
date
location
Please note that bookings are binding and no-shows will be invoiced.
time
Kindly sign up BEFORE July 4. Send an email to:
HYATT REGENCY 12:30 P.M JULY 7 the Hua HUA HIN Join Hin Ladies International for HuaHinLadies@gmail.com.
free Yoga Class followed by luncheon, July 7 at 12:30 at Hyatt Regency Hua Hin. For only lunch, luncheon starts at 13:45 at the McFarland restaurant. Yoga class, thrilling three-course luncheon (including 1 glass of Wine (red/white), free flow of water, tea and coffee) and a special tour at The Barai Spa after lunch is priced 500 Baht per person. For booking, contact huaHinladies@gmail.com.
Danish Networking in Hua Hin Date: 8 July 2011 Location: Mondo Vino The first networking was incredibly successful event so The Danish Network in Hua Hin continuously organizes the monthly networking. The next forum will be held on 8 July 2011 from 7 to 9 pm at Mondo Vino. The entrance fee is 200 baht/person including snacks and finger foods however if you prefer beer or wine which costs 100 baht/glass only. If you are Danish living in Hua Hin, don’t miss this opportunity to meet friends who speaks your language. Please contact info@huahindk.com for more information.
The Ambassador’s Cup 2011
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he Thai-Finnish Chamber of Commerce would like to express their warmest appreciation to all the players, who joined in The Ambassador’s Cup on Saturday 7 May 2011 at Royal Gems Golf Course, Nakorn Pathom. With a 120 golfers participated the game, it broke all previous tournament’s records! At the following Gala-dinner, TFCC had a chance to celebrate the winners of the golf tournament. With a whooping score of 161 points, the Team Vephula took first place in the Team Event. TFCC also wants to express the greatest gratitude to all the kind sponsors, who supported the event, made this event a truly extra-ordinary golf tournament and a day to remember for a long time. A special “Thank You” goes to the Finnish Ambassador Mrs. Sirpa Mäenpää, for always supporting our golf tournaments and events. TFCC hope to see you all back at our next major golf tournament “The Nordic Masters” in November 2011.
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1. Finnish Ambassador Mrs. Sirpa Mäenpää who is always support the tournament 2. “We are the champion” 3. Who was the best swinger? 4. Gala-dinner was held after the tournament 5. Finnish Ambassador Mrs. Sirpa Mäenpää with gofers
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Swecham Huntsman’s Networking in May
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he Swedish Chamber of Commerce in Thailand organized its monthly Huntsman’s Networking sponsored by Oakwood at the Huntsman’s, Landmark Hotel Sukhumvit on 12 May 2011. About 30 Swedish gathered for the exclusive TSCC menu and free flow drinks. The networking takes place in a very friendly atmosphere where everybody know each other and enjoy dinner together.
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Viking Wheelers’ Bang Phra 2011 Tour
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ang Phra 2011 Tour was held by the biking loving Viking Wheelers on 23 April 2011. Overall a very good 50 km ride, good variations of smaller hills, rolling hills, winding roads and straight road and of course a very beautiful landscape with a lot of variation from cemeteries, green hills, tapioca fields, small forest, beaches and small villages so a very perfect ride, long enough to make you sweat but not so long that it exhaust you.
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1. Willy Beider-Nielsen 2. Willy Beider-Nielsen with wife in the background and Martin and Simon (Junior 1) ready to take off together with dad Henrik Friis 3. Henrik Friis with Martin (Junior 2) 4. From left Willy Beider-Nielsen, Finn Sørensen and Henrik Friis during a pit stop
Maersk Celebrates 60 Years in Thailand
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aersk Line celebrated on Wednesday evening, 15 June 2011, its 60 Year Anniversary as a company in Thailand. June 15 was the exact date when - back in 1951 – Maersk Bangkok Branch was incorporated in Thailand after a brief period of being represented by an agent. The anniversary reception took place at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel in Bangkok.. The Danish Ambassador to Thailand, Mikael Hemniti Winther congratulated the company with its achievements over the years. In a very personal speech, the Ambassador mentioned how honored he was to be selected to address the guests on an occasion like this – and how proud it made him feel to represent Denmark. The Ambassador was followed on the podium by Maersk Line's Chief Executive for the Asia Pacific Region, Mr. Thomas Riber Knudsen. He highlighted the amazing fact, that when Maersk started its operations in Thailand, the shipping industry had not yet invented the container. Apart from that, Mr. Knudsen was more eager to talk about the future. Currently, Maersk was busy finding out, how buying shipping services could be made as simple as when we buy a book or when we book an airline ticket on the internet. He also asked why it should not be possible to deliver goods on time every time. And he asked why Maersk should not follow the highest environmental standard. Maersk Line Thailand's Managing Director Thomas Lindy Sorensen invited the clients and suppliers and others to help Maersk with input how to change the way we think about the shipping industry on a website set up for the same purpose: http://changingthewaywethinkaboutshipping.com/ Finally, on behalf of Maersk Line's clients, Mr. Aswin Techajaroenvikul, President of Berli Jucker Public Co., Ltd. - which had also played a role in the formation of Maersk back in 1951 - congratulated Maersk with its anniversary. The evening was well visited and Maersk offered the many guests a delicious buffet and an endless stream of canapes accompanied with music from a live band.
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1. Mr. Aswin Techajaroenvikul, President of Berli Jucker Public Co., Ltd., which had played a role in the formation of Maerks 60 years ago, was given a golden barge by Maersk Thailand Managing Director Thomas Lindy Sorensen. 2. Mr. Thomas Riber Knudsen, Maersk Line’s Chief Executive for Asia Pacific gave a golden barge to Danish Ambassador Mr. Mikael Hemniti Winther. 3. The Danish Ambassador was late for the reception due to heavy traffic. Being on time is one of the virtues held high by Maersk, but there was still time for Mr. Thomas Lindy Sorensen, Maersk Thailand, to personally greet the Ambassador when he arrived. June 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 7
ScandAsia News Brief
17 May Celebration in Pattaya
IKEA I Thailand Looks to Hire 500 with Job Fair
kea, the Swedish build-it-yourself furniture chain, is preparing to recruit at least 500 Thai employees to join its first store in Bang Na, says its Human Resources Manager Wasna Nakthaworn. Managers had already been recruited in April 2010 and the company is now searching for both full-time and part-time staff to work in the store. “We are looking for people willing to work under the Ikea Swedish working values of equality and teamwork. People of all ages and education levels are encouraged to apply,” said Wasna. The company all part-time and full-time employees would receive equal welfare. Salaries for full-time staff will start at 9,000 baht per month, while part-time staff will earn 45 baht per hour. Ikea Bang Na, which will be one of the five biggest Ikea stores worldwide when it opens, expects to see at least 5,000 applicants at the May 20 recruitment event. After recruitment, all employees will have to attend a two-month training course before the store is ready for operation on Nov 3 this year. Ms Wasna said Ikea’s working values should allow it to keep employee turnover at 10%, lower than the average Thai turnover rate of 30%. The company is advertising the open house via newspapers, online sources, job magazines, outdoor media, and van wrapping.
Dancham Loses Executive Director
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atrine Praest, the young Executive Director of Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce, has resigned from her position in the chamber. Katrine is not only resigning from her job but is leaving the country to pursue a new job in Malaysia. The former intern who advanced to become the Chamber’s Executive Director said after two years at the Danish Thai Chamber of Commerce, the time has come for her to move towards new challenges as the Regional Marketing Manager for Novozymes in Kuala Lumpur. “Exciting times are ahead with a new career, new country, new city but I will truly miss Bangkok and the wonderful people I have met here.” Katrine Praest added that she hoped to keep in contact with the great Chamber network and look forward to seeing them again at their June farewell networking event.
Photo by the Norwegian Church in Pattaya
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he celebration for 17 May was embraced by guests who flooded the Norwegian Seamen’s Church in Pattaya like never before. A hearty delicious breakfast was served with some 220 guests present. The breakfast had been prepared by the staff and helpers of the church to re-create the feeling and presence of 17 May. It was expectedly fulfilling and well prepared. As the service began, the priest, Jan Olav, had to position the podium in the middle of the church garden and let the guests gather around it so as to accommodate everyone. Some arrived a little later when the procession was about to begin rapidly increasing the number of guests to around 260 people. Oddvar held an excellent speech on the occasion. Young ones were seen to be playing games and enjoying good doses of ice cream and hot dogs as the last part of the celebration began.
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ScandAsia News Brief
Ten Danes in Badminton Tournament in Thailand
Cheap Direct Scandinavia - Bangkok Flights on Norwegian by 2013
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n 7 June, the SCG Thailand Open Grand Prix Gold 2011 kicked off at the Chulalonkorn University Sports Complex in Bangkok with 10 Danish badminton players. There are no other players from Scandinavia. Prize money is US$120,000. One of the many Danish players was 22-year-old upcoming talent Anders Skaarup Rasmussen. He played mix-double and men’s double. At the tournament he played men’s double with his partner Mats Bue. Anders’ records show that he has won mix-double at the AB Grand Prix tournament and mix-double at the Czech International. Lately, he won a third place in both mixdouble and men’s double, in men’s double with Mats Bue, in the Danish Championship. Both players, who arrived on 5 June for their first tournament in Asia, are working hard to achieve their goal of being the best in the world as they also have their full time study to concentrate on. This was Anders’ first trip to Asia.
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udget airline, Norwegian, has confirmed plans to launch direct flights from Scandinavia to Bangkok by the end of 2012 or beginning of 2013. The company plans to operate three to five flights a week to the US east coast destination, which has become increasingly popular among the Swedes who are thrilled that they could gratify their shopping needs. “We are going to maintain our cut price profile even on the long distance flights,” Åsa Larsson at Norwegian told news website svd.se, forecasting that
tickets to New York will be sold from around 2,500 kronor ($420). Sweden’s largest airport operator, Swedavia released figures recently showing that demand for flights to New York had reached record levels and invited more actors to take advantage of the city’s renewed popularity. Norwegian announced on May 26th that it had signed an agreement to buy three 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft. The firm has a prior agreement to lease a further two planes.
New Board of Scandinavian Society Siam
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he Annual General Meeting on 26 April elected a new board for the Scandinavian Society of Siam. When the first board meeting took place, it was dentified among the priority tasks at hand, the need to review and consolidate the different member lists in order to be able to invoice the members for the 2011-2012 terms.
The members of the new board met on 2 May 2011, with Anita Falk as Chairman, Robert Kronberg as Vice Chairman and Recording Secretary, Claus Gundersen as Treasurer, Flemming Winther Nielsen as Bulletin Editor, Vidar Starion as Board Member, Par Hollertz and Johan Holmqvist as Substitute.
Scandinavian Food & Jazz Week in Bangkok
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The ambassadors of Denmark and Sweden together with the Consulate General of Iceland cutting the ribbon at the “Simply Scandinavian” in Bangkok
he Scandinavian Food and Jazz Week themed “Simply Scandinavian” in Bangkok kicked off at the Plaza Athénée Hotel Bangkok on 13 May and ended on 22 May. Simply Scandinavian was held to promote Scandinavian, food and jazz music. Guests were treated to enjoy the beautiful voice of Swedish singer, Annica Risberg, accompanied by the Stockholm quartet, City-Jazz, in the Glaz Bar. Later, they were served an impressive buffet-style dinner in the Rain Tree Café. The scrumptious variety dishes were prepared by Björn Ekstrand from Finland. Dishes served include both cold and warm dishes such as meatballs, cold cuts, herring, smoked eel and salmon among others. Event organizer, Swede Hans Wetterberg said this was the seventh time the event, “Simply Scandinavian” has been organised in Bangkok. “We keep doing this for both business and pleasure. The musicians have a great time playing jazz in Asia so it makes it easier to negotiate when I ask them to play at my floating jazz club in Sweden,” he said, smiling. The event was launched off by the ambassadors from Finland and Denmark together with the Consulate General of Iceland. The Danish Ambassador, Mikael Hemniti Winther said he attended the event with his wife to enjoy the music and the food. “I really appreciate live music and on top of that, I believe it is my duty to support events like this when I have the time,” he said.
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June 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 11
Mission Accomplis Kowech Thongthep hugged Peder and Ruth Jorgensen from Denmark at the opening of a new building at Baan Immanuel Hostel in Phiboon Mangsahan. He was a poor young teenager with no prospect of studying anything when the couple picked him as one of the first students to benefit from the Norwegian supported student home. Today Kowech is head of a District Health Centre in the province.
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eder M. Jorgensen and his wife Ruth from Ikast in Denmark were the guests of honour when the Baan Immanuel Hostel in Phiboon Mangsahan in May inaugurated a new dormitory building for 16 young boys. Peder Jorgensen had collected the money for the building, over 600.000 Danish kroner, among friends and acquaintances in Denmark over the past two years and the full amount without a single kroner spent on administration was donated to erecting the new building and renovate the existing hostel they created in the early 90's. Baan Immanuel Hostel was set up by the Danish couple during the time they worked as missionaries for Norwegian Missionary Society from 1984 to 1995. The home was established to offer children who were exceptionally bright in primary school, but whose parents were too poor to allow them to study further, a possibility to continue studying. They moved from their vil-
By Gregers Moller Photos by Disraporn Yatprom
Kowech Thongthep hugged Peder Jorgensen after his speech on behalf of the students who was taken into the Immanuel Home. 12 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
lages often 30 or 40 km away, into the hostel in Phiboon Mangsahan, where they could then attend the local public secondary school. The parents were requested to pay with a sack of 100 kg rice per year as a contribution - if they could. The new building has room for 16 boys. Currently, 44 children - ten of them boys - live in the existing hostel building that has also been thoroughly renovated. When the boys move to the new dormitory, there will be room for more girls in the renovated building.
"Thank you!" Ruth and in particular Peder Jorgensen's years of devotion to the Baan Immanuel Hostel, which has extended long after they left Thailand, was greatly rewarded at the opening. Bishop Visanukorn Uppama of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Thailand, who personally performed the ceremony, likened Peder Jorgensen to the Good Sa-
maritan from the Bible. Even more touching was the gratitude shown by around twenty former students at the home, who had taken time out to visit their former teenage home which had made it possible for them to escape the extreme poverty, they were born into. Kowech Thongthep was among the first students. He had come to stay at the Baan Immanuel Hostel when it was initially set up in a small house in Phiboon while waiting for the construction of the new and bigger hostel to be completed. He spoke as one of the VIP's at the opening of what difference this hostel had meant to his whole life. Today, Kowech Thongthep is head of a local Health Center in a district not far from Phiboon. Somkid Srisutham, who today works with import export in a freight forwarding company in Bangkok, and Suparluck Suma, who is the partner in a travel agency near Khao San Road in Bangkok, have both at
shed different times traveled to visit Peder and Ruth Jorgensen in Denmark to show their gratitude. They were also present at the opening along with many of their old friends who have over the years lived at the hostel, today teachers, government officials, NGO workers, or employed in the private sector. Among the VIP's speaking at the opening was also the School Director of the district, who told an anecdote about once when he had asked Peder Jorgensen if he could help find funds to support a poor student so he could studying further. "I think you are rich enough to pay for him yourself," had been Peder Jorgensen's reply. And so he did.
Scandinavians involved The cost of running the Baan Immanuel Hostel has from the beginning till today been paid every year by the Norwegian Missionary Society through the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Thailand. The
That’s me! exclaims Suparluck Suma pointing to the photo on the wall that was taken every year of the current students living at Baan Immanuel.
The first Home Coming Day took place in 2008 but is now a yearly tradition. Most of the former students stand centered around Peder and Adjarn Kiartikun Sriboonrieng, the daily manager of the home on the top of the stairs.
June 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 13
The new dormitories for the boys have four beds in each room. The furniture has been selected to be as durable as possible with iron beds and steel cupboards. The windows will be covered on the outside by a canopy so the rain will not seep in.
new hostel building was initially also supposed to have been paid by the NMS, but as the impressive amount of money raised by Peder Jorgensen turned out to be sufficient to pay for it all, the NMS was instead able to concentrate on its main operation in Thailand in the Mukdahan province. Two missionaries from the NMS are, however, especially close to the Baan Immanuel Hostel. One is Astrid Myland, who oversees how NMS's funds for the operation of the hostel are spent and visits the
home once a month. Another is her husband, Atle Roger, who as an expert in building construction has supervised the renovation of the existing building and the construction of the new dormitory. Two more Scandinavians are also involved. Dag Johannesen has as the head of NMS for all of Thailand has over the years visited the hostel several times. The other is Leena Helle, a Finnish lady, who has been working for many years with the diakonia projects of the ELCT.
More help needed Baan Immanuel Hostel is constantly in need of support. If you are looking for project, where you can make a difference for future of a bunch of lively, creative and promising young, but extremely poor students, look no further. A Danish teacher Poul Nielsen, who once visited the hostel together with Peder Jorgensen, gave one million Danish kroner to be put in a foundation and the proceeds used to support students after they graduate and move out of Baan Immanuel.
"If we stop here, we just create a group of highly educated poor people, that is no good," was his thinking. This fund is in need of support too, as the interest only generates 48.000 THB per year, or enough for one student only. If you want to look into ways that you can support the hostel or the foundation, please contact Gregers Moller at gregers@scandmedia. com.
The new dormitory building of the Baan Immanuel. Norwegian priest Espen is seen walking through the door. On the second floor there is a big hall ideal for activities like shows and gymnastics.
Peder and Ruth Jorgensen by the plate at the entrance. “This Building Has Been Erected By Friends in Denmark,” it says and then a quote from the Bible: “Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that built it.”
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Danish C Steps Up H A second fighting gym on the way, new belts won and still hungry for more, it is not yet time for Ole Laursen to throw the towel into the ring. By Lars Pinnerup
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egacy gym is part of a dream, a dream that bit by bit took form during the early years of Ole Baguio Laursens’ career as a fighter and up until now. The essence of that dream is found in the name of the fighting gym that Ole founded in Ubon Ratchatani 5 years ago, Legacy Gym. The Iron Fist, as Ole was nicknamed by his older brother Christian, due to his reputation for always knocking out his opponents in street fights back when he was a kid in Copenhagen, is on a mission to create a legacy for himself. His own fighting career has earned him numerous titles; world championship belts and more in Thai boxing and MMA - Mixed Martial Arts. His gym in Ubon Ratchatani will soon have a sister gym on the Philippines, as Ole is expanding with a gym there on the world famous Boracay beach, hoping to use his name on the Philippines to make the gym a success there. And Ole Baguio Laursen does have a name back in his mother’s native country. His last three fights were shown live on national TV there, and the large P for Philippines inked on Ole Laursen upper arm shows that the love is returned.
Creating a legacy “I want to be remembered, I want to be remembered as a great fighter someone that always brings it. That 16 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
goes for my gym as well. There are many great gyms out there, so far mine is not one of them. I want my gym to be among the best out there,” Ole Laursen says. Legacy has come a long way though. Legacy fighters with Ole Laursen as the torch carrier have appeared on the bill at many fighting events in Thailand and throughout the world. Several triumphs and titles have been won, but Ole Laursen still feels the consistency is lacking. “It takes time, and it takes people devoting their time, they have got to share the same dream. I can only do so much on my own. I need guys that are on the same page,” he says. “I have had many guys fighting here, but they all disappear, and I understand that. People need to make money for a living, and it takes time before that can be done through fighting. Some of the guys I have had here have been very talented. I had a Slovakian kid named Egon with me for almost four years. He left last year. He fought over 100 fights, and I even convinced him to do a few MMA fights, even though he is more into Thai-boxing,” Ole Laursen tells. On the internet Legacy Gym is being praised as one of those smaller gyms that focuses on quality over quantity and that is also one of Ole Laursens philosophies, when it comes to the set up of his gym. “Beginner or expert, all need
the same quality training when they come here. If the beginners feel neglected they are not going to return, and who knows, if those people later could have become champions?” Ole asks.
Earning respect in Thailand Despite Ole Laursen’s impressive international CV, his gym still struggles to earn the respect he feels it deserves among the Thais, Thai promoters in particular. “The only way you can earn your respect here in Thailand as a foreign gym owner is to create a Thai champion. I have yet to do so. I have tried, tried and tried, and I admit I am close to giving up on Thailand and only focusing on the international scene, as it just seems like a mission impossible. But if I could produce a Thai champion it could mean everything. It would bring more credibility to my gym. Promoters would call me more often and offer my fighters bigger and better fights, and thus more fighters would want to be part of my gym,” Ole Laursen explains. As a gym owner he stays loyal to his roots, having Thai-boxing along with MMA as the disciplines he offers to the athletes joining his gym. But personally he has slowed down on the Thai-boxing and moved his focus to the more financially lucrative MMA fights. “I have paid my dues, and there is not that much money in Thaiboxing compared to MMA. Besides,
Champion Fighter His Game I have so much to achieve still, but feel I am running out of time. Every year I tell myself, that this is my last year fighting. My neck injury last year was the perfect excuse to stop, but I am still hungry for more.
it is more painful and takes longer time to recover from a Thai boxing fights than a MMA fight, believe it or not,” Ole Laughs. Then he continues: “I have so much to achieve still, but feel I am running out of time. Every year I tell myself, that this is my last year fighting. My neck injury last year was the perfect excuse to stop, but I am still hungry for more.” “I see tapes of these great fighters and think to myself, I can beat these guys, so I guess it is not time yet. But taking care of the gym and my fighting career is quite a challenge. My fighters have it easy. All they have to do is wake up in the morning and train, I even wake them up. Me, I have my fighting career, my gym and my wife to take care of,” Ole smiles.
Raising a champion Ole Laursen has taken numerous kids under his wings, educating them in the ring, but also paying for their school, food, housing and so on, only to see them take off after they graduate from the local college. “It has happened too many times. They don’t really come here to be fighters, they come here to earn their way through school,” Ole exclaims. Ole Laursens’ struggles to produce a champion Thai Boxer is exemplified with his last hope, the 17 years old boxer Kim, who has been with Ole since he was 11 years old. “His parents brought him here,
because they knew my head coach. This kid has potential. If he wants to, he can go all the way. It would be good for him, but also good for the gym and me. I would like him to focus more on his training, but right now he is at a critical stage in life. He likes motorbikes, girls and rock music.”
Boxing on the beach Setting up a gym in the Philippines is a challenge and a chance that Ole Laursen hopes will be worth the effort and the money he is putting into it. “To some it might not be much, but to me, it is quite an investment, and I am therefore hoping to attract some investors or sponsors for the project. The location is great, near what many label as the best beach in the world and I see a lot of potential in the Philippines when it comes to MMA. There is not much going on there right now, and I am hoping that my gym, being one of the first there, can benefit from that,” Ole explains. With the location Ole Laursen hopes to attract travelers as well as locals in what is one of the most visited destinations on the Philippines, Boracay Beach. “The gym in Ubon is doing well, I am not making a fortune on it, and rely on earnings from my fights as well, but I feel that now is the time to try and see if I can make it happen on the Philippines,” Ole Laursen says. June 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 17
First Music Video
Sobic has deliberately avoided having a record label. But for distribution purposes they signed a few weeks ago an agreement with Sony.
Sobic, a Danish boyband debuting in Thailand, are making the music video to ‘Star night’. It is the first released single from their debut album that will be out in a couple of month. Soffi Chanjira Larsen
Sune Krøll is tired. Sobic has been working almost day and night for the last 48 hours.
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T
he Danish musicians is already known for their Gon Sai Pai (before it’s too late), Sobic’s first unofficially released song on Youtube, in Thai. Sobic consists of three boys from Denmark, Ofek Tal and two brothers Asbjørn and Sune Krøll. Sune Krøll came to Thailand sev-
en years ago and shortly after his brother Asbjørn Krøll and Asbjørns friend Ofek Tal followed. They have been here ever since. They have all been involved with music before and they immediately saw possibilities in Thailand that they would never have in Denmark. What make these three boys special is that the sing not only in
Max Petersen is Sobic’s sound technician and also the cameraman in the Star Night music video. He is flying back to Denmark later in May.
A lot of make up is needed because of the big revealing spotlights for the filming.
English but also in Thai, which is natural for them as they by now also speaks Thai. It is a bit unusual that the three boys have not signed a record label. It is on purpose and instead hthey do mostly everything themselves from handling the cameras to editing. This gives them more freedom, their opportunities are bigger and it minimizes
their expenses, says Sune Krøll. Distribution, however, is something they need help with, so their music get out to public.So in oder to make the music accessible to their fans they recently signed a distribution agreement with SONY. Being their own entrepreneurs they all have to agree in everything, and that is not always as easy in the
group and can prolong their work. “But it is ok, we have lots of time,” says Asbjørn Krøll. Sobic’s music has become more mainstream than their original sound. A natural development, Asbjørn says. After listening to some of their tracks the fans can look forward to an album filled with hits of a mix pop and rock.
Sobic are the Danish boys Asbjørn Krøll, lead singer/lead guitarist in the middle, Sune Krøll, bass guitar/backing vocals to the right, and Ofek Tal, guitar/keyboard to the left.
June 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 19
Bumpy Road in Par I couldn’t stand to see her like that and I was not willing to let anything come in between us. Really, there was only one thing for me to do at the time.
Eight years ago, Tammes Poulsen met the love of his life on a vacation in Thailand. Today they run a resort, a restaurant and an internet cafe on beautiful Koh Chang. The business is successful and Tammes is happy. But “living in paradise” is not always as rosy as people might think. By Thomas Lykke Pedersen
A
n all night snooker match against a bunch of German residents on Koh Chang has left its mark on Tammes Poulsen. Or maybe it is the beers and drinks accompanying the game. With a coke in one hand and a cigarette in the other the 40-year-old Dane lets his body drop down on a floor cushion on the terrace deck of his Koh Chang restaurant. A big sigh is released. “This is why I can’t stay in this business for many years. Because of the lifestyle, and a genuine fear of becoming an alcoholic,” Tammes says seriously. For eight years, he has been living and working on Koh Chang alongside his wife, Sunisa, building and running their Lonely Beach Resort.
The sparkle of love In 2002 Tammes Poulsen and a good friend decided that everyday life in Copenhagen was too dull. Both being between jobs, they agreed to go on a three months holiday to Thailand. After only one week in the sun, Tammes met a local girl. The two were together all the time and went on “real dates” as Tammes calls them, with candlelight dinners and sunsets at the beach. “I knew when I left that this was no holiday fling. It was the real deal.
20 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
I was in love,” Tammes says. So after only three weeks back in Denmark, he returned to Koh Chang and his Sunisa. “Coincidences made me meet Sunisa, but the love was definitely the spark I needed to change my life. The cliche of listening to your heart has never been more true,” Tammes states. After reuniting in Thailand, Tammes and Sunisa travelled to Denmark together and tried to establish a life there, and everything started out very nice with Tammes and Sunisa getting married. Quickly though, they had to realize that Sunisa was not cut out for a life in Scandinavia. As so many Thais have tried before, the weather really got to her, and combined with an almost non-exiting social circle, Sunisa got depressed. “I couldn’t stand to see her like that and I was not willing to let anything come in between us. Really, there was only one thing for me to do at the time,” Tammes states. Thus, he sold his apartment and a share in a vacation house and basically everything else that he owned. A return to Thailand was inevitable.
Tough beginning In Thailand it did not take long before Tammes started dreaming about his own resort, and the cou-
ple started looking for land. When they found the spot they started out by renting. “The rent alone was so expensive that I quickly realised that the resort dream had to be postponed,” he says. Tammes knew a thing or two about computers and his money was enough to build an internet-cafe which he thought would be a rather easy way to start up the business. But there were no such thing as easy beginnings it turned out. The first years were very tough. Tammes’ family back in Denmark thought he was entering a dead end street, and that his new girlfriend would cheat him out of his money. “It was extremely frustrating with this attitude from back home. And the funny thing is that there were actually no money left anyway,” Tammes says. And the sceptical predictions were soon to be proved completely wrong. “When we hit a hole and couldn’t go anywhere, Sunisa’s family lend me 500,000 Baht. It’s an extreme gesture especially in Thailand and the only reason I accepted was that I really believed in this project,” he says. Unfortunately, Sunisa did not. Or actually it was Tammes’ commitment she did not believe in. “She was afraid that I would just leave one day, if the going got
radise too tough. And at the same time I was worried that she would one day leave me and return to her exhusband who was desperately trying to get her back. It was really hard on our marriage and the resort project. Both almost ended several times,” Tammes says.
Back to get more money The money from Sunisa’s family was put into a restaurant next to the internet cafe. But Tammes knew for the whole thing to be really profitable he needed to fulfil his goal and create accommodation for the increasing number of backpackers coming to Koh Chang. But the money was not there and the debt forced Tammes to make a decision. In 2005 he left his wife and their one-year-old son, Aske, and went to Denmark. “I worked two jobs, one as a taxi driver and one as a construction worker. It was an extremely hard period but my plan was to get as much money as possible on my hands to go back to Thailand and build my long wanted bungalows,” he explains.
After returning from Denmark, Tammes could finally start building the bungalows. And shortly after even more money arrived as Tammes’ older brother and a close friend each bought 16% of Lonely Beach Resort. Things started moving forward and Sunisa gained trust in the whole project. “My wife has been absolutely fantastic. She is so good with the staff and I’ve been very lucky that she has proven to be such a capacity work wise as well as in private life even though we had a bumpy ride to begin with,” Tammes says. Today Lonely Beach Resort has 10 bungalows and is looking to expand with two new ones during 2011. Despite the progress Tammes encountered new problems. The biggest challenge in the new found success was that Tammes had a very hard time fitting himself into the role as the host and the owner of the resort. “Being in the spotlight was the worst for me and I was really struggling for a long time. Especially with the old cliche that the customer is always right. At one point in the be-
ginning I actually threw a bunch of guests out because they were simply to rude and complained about everything,” he says. Sitting there, trying to cure his hangovers with a best seller of his restaurant - the home made burger with Danish characteristic pickled cucumber and fried, soft onions Tammes explains his genuine fear of becoming an alcoholic if he stays in the business for to long. “All year long I have friends and family coming looking for a good time. I know I can’t do this for many years because the drinking and smoking would slowly kill me. That’s why I’m already looking for new ways to go,” Tammes says.
New challenges As of now the Lonely Beach Resort is a good business and things are running smoothly. Actually so smoothly that Tammes sometimes finds himself in a similar situation as when he was playing online games with his friends back in Copenhagen. “Sometimes it’s just too easy. When I find myself practically doing nothing but drinking beer with my
friends, I feel I’m back in this same old routine where nothing happens. That’s when I know that I need new challenges in a not too distant future,” he says. And these future challenges will definitely be in Thailand as well. Tammes Poulsen does not fear going into another project as the whole process with the Lonely Beach Resort has given him a lot of experience. “I have no doubt that is was actually a good thing that the money was tight in the beginning. Taking it very slowly building everything up one thing at a time has taught me a lot. I have learnt the different mechanisms and some unwritten rules, so even though is sounds funny, I’m actually glad I didn’t have 10 million Baht eight years ago,” he says with a smile. Sitting in his own little spot in paradise, Tammes could not be further away from the past he is so happy to have escaped. “I often think about where I would have been today, had I not gone to Thailand on holiday that time. And actually, I don’t wish to know the answer,” he says thoughtfully.
June 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 21
A New Life through A Change in Lifestyle The fake luminous raindrops on the trees in Thong Lo invite and allure to get drunk and have a party. In the weekends, the police make alcohol controls just around the corner to catch some easy fish. In thye past, Lookpetch Nielsen could have been one of them. But not any more. By Soffi Chanchira Larsen
L
ookpetch Nielsen does not look like the typical ‘look kreung’ - a Thai expression for children of mixed Thai and Caucasian parents. At least he does not look not like most of the ‘look kreung’ you see in magazines and television with unnaturally pale skin and dark blond hair. Lookpetch has thick black hair, dark brown skin and almond shaped eyes. It is his father, who came out here to work with SAS when he was small, that is Danish. Besides that there is not much Danish in Lookpetch Nielsen. He knows a few Danish words as ‘Vi ses’ (see you), but he doesn’t otherwise speak any Danish. He has been to Denmark once. “I have Thai and Danish blood in my veins. I am an ‘in between’, but I am not Danish, I am Thai,” he says.
Typical upbringing Lookpetch Nielsen had a typical life of a child from mixed marriages. He went to an international school and continued to university where he graduated with honor. Besides some incidents of teasing because of his background, his life seems to resemble that of most other upper middle class Thai children. It has, however, not always been that smooth.
Today, Lookpetch is a top athlete, but five years ago drinking and partying every weekend was what he was best at.
Drinking like a Dane Every Friday five years ago you would always find Lookpetch Nielsen drinking with a bunch of allies. This was a lifestyle he was used to since he was a child. A family tradition that followed him through his life like his nickname ‘Beer.’ “I drank a lot, after all I’m half Danish,” he says laughing and continues “I felt free when I was drinking, I had no problems and I was untouchable.” A bottle of alcohol and several beers was easily consumed every time there was an occasion. And there was always someone to go out and drink with either friends or his boss at work or some clients in the special freight courier company, in which he is today business development manager. . “I was always ready to party, drinking was my carrier, my job a hobby,“ Lookpetch Nielsen says.
Entered monkhood While it was fun living life to the edge it also little by little became more meaningless and it did not get him anywhere. You might think he
22 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
was sad or miserable but he was not, this was just the way he had always lived, carelessly. “I just did not care about anything, so I had nothing to lose because I had nothing to fight for,” he explains. Change came when Lookpetch Nielsen became a monk for a short time like it is a tradition for young Thai men growing up. He was 28 and planned to be a monk for two weeks. He ended up staying at the temple for five. When the temple bell rang for the last time of his stay, he cried and could not stop crying. Even the monks at the temple who had been his closest and only companions did not know what to do. “It had been such a peaceful time. I did not want to go back!”
“One of many motivations for me to stop drinking is to help other people stop drinking. I can advice others about how I stopped,” Lookpetch Nielsen says. His drinking habit has been replaced by another lifestyle. Lookpetch Nielsen is a top athlete and has been participating in two sports events per month. But now he is only doing big events like marathons and ironman competitions every two or three month. Currently he is practicing for the ‘Challenge Aarhus’ Ironman in Aarhus, Denmark in July. He has got a tight schedule for the practicing. Swimming, running, biking and workout spread over the week until the challenge in July.
Joined Alcoholics Anonymous
“Sports is not a substitute for my drinking, I have always been doing sports. But it has now become almost my religion,” Lookpetch Nielsen says. “I do not regret my past, but I regret I have lost so much time. I could have achieved more,” he continues. To be in these extreme competitions is, however, not only about winning for Lookpetch Nielsen. “It is not for the outcome but for the journey,” he says.
But Lookpetch went back to his old life and resumes drinking and partying. “I was an alcoholic again the minute I had the first beer,” he tells. Little by little he got more aware about his drinking problem. He then attended meetings at the Alcoholics Anonymous, and he has been going there ever since. Today he is helping as one of the people on the hotline answering the phone for others with drinking problems.
Sports a religion
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A Big Heart for Street Khun Ta established “Baan Jing Jai” in 1998 to provide a home for street children in the Pattaya area. The home has been supported by Scandinavian Expats for several years. Khun Ta and her kids will soon be able to start building a new house of their own. By Soffi Chanchira Larsen
I
n a residential neighborhood in Pattaya, two houses are facing each other, generel residential for an average family of 4-5 persons. One is green and the other is pink. The paint has faded long ago, worn and dirty, black spots here and there. Outside the house every little is corner stored with clothes, inside there are large empty spaces, that is where the children sleeps. This is the childrens home Baan Jing Jai (Home of sincere heart).
Children of all sizes are running around and playing outside. Some children plays at the public playground located diagonally across from the pink house, and others are playing at the abandoned grass field behind the house. In 1998 Ms. Piangta Chumnoi created Baan Jing Jai. Before 1998 she worked for a Christian organization, and with a little financial help from them, and on her own she opened Baan Jiang Jai. The first
Orpan House, Pattaya Thailand 24 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
year grew from two children to 10 and that is how it has grown since. Today, Baan Jiang Jai houses around 80 children. The youngest child is almost two years and the oldest 19 years. The boys lives in the green house and in the pink house the girls. The green house is divided into two, where the teenage girls have the other side of the house. Many children come from the street where they have been left to themselves. Some worked for their family and some just drifted around in the tourist town. It is according to Thai law prohibited if it affects their schooling, and it does, because the children often work at night. They will be handed over by authorities or police, who have collected them from the streets. Often the parent cannot take proper care of the child because they themselves either work in the nightlife, or otherwise cannot make sure their child gets a proper upbringing. “It’s important to get kids out of this environment early and as quickly as possible, otherwise it becomes difficult to get them out,”says Ms.
Piangta Chumnoi, who rarely experience children run away from Baan Jing Jai. “We’ve asked the kids to come and talk to us if they get the urge to escape. We talk about the alternatives that are here and those elsewhere in the city. They usually usually take that into consideration, “says Ms. Piangta Chumnoi. Only about 10 of the children still have contact with parents, the rest are orphans.
Small donations The first many years Baan jing jai lived on small donations from various organizations, especially from Christians and Catholics and from families who had given their child to Baan Jing Jai. Today, several organizations as Scandinavia Expats Club sponsors Baan Jing jai. They have supported the home since 2003. They help finding sponsors and is also in the building committee. With this flock of children growing each year, it is unrealistic and uhensigtsmæssigt to livein its present premises, where most children sleep on floors. Land is now bought
Children
in order to build a bigger house for the kids. “My dream for the Baan Jing Jai is that the children should have the same upbringing and equal opportunities as other children, with their own room and privacy,” says Ms. Piangta Chumnoi. The construction has not started yet while there is not enough money. It takes 15 million baht to build Ms. Piangta Chumnoi and 80 children’s dreams. Therefore, they are teamed with several organizations to collect contributions. An
architect has designed the building free of charge and a local Norwegian builder has agreed to build to the net price. Sponsors will be offered to sponsor a room and their name written on it. That way they hope to get contributions faster. Baan Jing Jai welcomes donations to this account: Thai Legal & Associates Co., Ltd. Konto nr: 961 0 06400 9 Bangkok Bank, North Pattaya Branch Pattaya City, Chonburi.
PATTAYA Pattaya is Thailand’s most action packed city. This hotspot has within its vicinity more amusement attractions, golf courses, night time venues, sports facilities than any other place in Thailand.
P
attaya about 165 km southeast of Bangkok was for centuries a small fishing village. Then, on 26 April 1961, a change occurred. The first group of about 100 American servicemen who were fighting in the Vietnam War arrived in Pattaya for relaxation. From this beginning, Pattaya became a popular beach resort which now attracts over 4 million visitors a year. Fishermen’s huts along the beach road were replaced by resort hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, and night attractions. Some - but there are more(!) of the activities offered by Pattaya include the Underwater World
26 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
aquarium, Elephant Village, Mini Siam, the floating market, Sri Racha Tiger Zoo, Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden, The Million Years Stone Park, Pattaya Crocodile Farm, Pattaya Park Beach Resort Water Park, Funny Land Amusement Park, Siriporn Orchid Farm, Silverlake Winery, the Thai Alangkarn Theater Pattaya, Bottle Art Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, and more. Oh yes, and within 1 hour of Pattaya you will also find 21 golf courses!
The people
The population of Pattaya is around 120,000. That figure does not in-
clude the large number of people who work in Pattaya but remain registered in their hometowns. The many long-term expatriate visitors are also not included. If one counts these non-registered residents in, the population is around 300,000 at any given time. Others even estimate the figure as high as 500,000. There is a fast-growing community of foreign retirees living in Pattaya. Thai immigration has a special visa category for foreigners over age 50 who wish to retire in Thailand. On weekends, it becomes increasingly crowded, with many Thai visitors coming from Bangkok. It of-
fers of watersport activities such as jet skis, parasailing and small sail boat hire. Pattaya is attractive to many retirees from Europe and other Western countries not only because of its climate and exotic, easy lifestyle, but also because living costs are a fraction of those in Europe, a major consideration for people on fixed pensions or incomes.
The area
The City of Pattaya is a self governing municipal area which covers the whole tambon Nong Prue and Na Kluea and parts of Huai Yai and Nong Pla Lai. The City is situated in the heav-
ily industrial Eastern Seaboard zone, along with Si Racha, Laem Chabang, and Chonburi. “Greater Pattaya” occupies most of the coastline of Banglamung - one of the eleven districts of Chonburi Province. The northern section spans the areas to the east of Naklua Beach to the north and in the center Pattaya Beach including the Pratamnak Hill (also called “Buddha Hill”), the headland immediately south of Pattaya Beach, and a smaller southern section covering the area to the east of Jomtien Beach directly south of Pratamnak Hill.
Property
Driven by its popularity as both a holiday destination, and a location for foreign expatriates, Pattaya is an area of extensive property development, including hotels, condominiums, and housing estates. Steadily rising prices of land and buildings have also led to investment and speculation contributing to the growth in the town’s economy. While foreigners are not permitted to own land, they are permitted to hold title to condominium units. Many new condominiums sell out the allotted 49% for foreigners while the buildings are still not built but only under construction.
Khao Phra Tamnak or Khao Phra Bat is a small hill located between South Pattaya and Jomtien Beach that provides a panoramic view of the city of Pattaya and its crescent bay. The hill is topped by Wat Khao Phra Bat, a temple, and the monument of Kromluang Chomphonkhetudomsak, who is regarded as the “founding father of the modern Thai navy.” This picture was taken by photographer D. Nijpels with over 100 shots and then stitched together to form one huge panorama. The day this photo was taken it was exceptionally clear and the port of Laem Chabang is clearly visible at 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) away. The big mountains of Chonburi are also visible at around 45 kilometer (28 miles) away.
June 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 27
Where to Eat?
Danish Breakfast Rolls
Anything Delicious on Walking Street? W
alking Street in South Pattaya is one long string of temptations. If you manage to get past the most obvious ones, you will find many excellent seafood restaurants here, too. A favorite is King Seafood with its large tanks with several varieties of fish and seafood dinners still swimming. The restaurants on this side of Walking Street are all built on stilts over the water which gives a great view. Among others, you can see the floating seafood restaurants out on the water. In the evening, you can sit and enjoy the gentle sea breeze - unless of course its one of those rainy nights where the water comes down in buckets. Personally, I don’t enjoy seafood much, but while the rest of the family cracks lobster claws, I am happy with my filet mignon. Given the location, Kings Seafood is not expensive but of course we need wine, too. Then it starts adding up..
28 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
Y
ou may experiment by night - try a Pakistani, Greek or Mongolian dinner - but when the morning comes, most people want a breakfast just like back home. Danes and other good Scandinavians who appreciate perfectly baked Danish breakfast rolls “rundstykker” and other Danish breakfast specialties has for about a year been able to find this at the Danish bakers in Pattaya. The bakery has chosen Best Bakers Pattaya as its official name in order not to be boxed in as ‘only’ Danish. The bakery has been established by two Danes, Jan Christensen and Kim Bokelund. They have a business back in Aalborg in Denmark where they produce among others pizza bread and some ecological food products. What they have done is ‘simply’ to move a complete Danish bakery 9,000 kilometers south east from Denmark, and started baking bread “the Danish way” in the middle of Pattaya. The bakery imports and uses flour from Italy and Denmark, which gives the bread a fine structure and the well-known Scandinavian and Italian taste. Apart from ‘rundstykker’ products include heavy Danish ryebread, various pizza breads, Italian white bread, to mention a few. The location is easy to find if you drive yourself - find Soi Chaiyapoon 25 Rd. leading from Pattaya 3rd Road up to Soi Buakao.
Shopping, Entertainment, and Eateries. A smooth one and half hours drive from bangkok
HOTEL TROPICANA Pattaya : 98 Moo 9, Beach Road, Nong Prue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel: (038) 428-645-8, 420-545-8, Fax: (038) 423-031 Bangkok Sale Office : 6th Flr. Siam Motor Building, 891/1 Rama 1 Road, Patumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: (02) 216 2278, Fax: (02) 216 0287 www.tropicanathailand.com
What to Do?
Koh Lan Beach Life I
f you need a cleaner beach than Pattaya or Jomtien beach, then Koh Lan might be your place. Every morning, a steady stream of tourists go from the Bali Hai pier by regular ferries or special tour boats or even hire expensive speedboats to go out to Koh Lan. By regular ferry, the fare for the boat trip is only 20-30 baht. The ferries leave every hour from 10.00 to 18.30. The sailing time from Pattaya is about 45 min. Koh Lan is the nearest island to Pattaya. It is loacted about 5 km. from the mainland. The island also has its regular inhabitants of people who live and work there. It also has
a small medical facility and a police force. The about six beaches in Koh Lan have white sand and mostly clear blue water. On certain days with certain wind conditions the water may have garbage and plastic bags floating, but not like the beaches on the mainland. The island is covered in dense, green vegetation covering the mountainous terrain, therefore there is also wild monkeys living on the island. Other than sun tanning on the beach and looking for monkeys you can do activities such as para sailing, snorkeling, riding jet skis, banana boat.
Four Regions Floating Market T
hailand is famous for its floating markets. There never was one near Pattaya, but the atmosphere of the floating market has been created a bit south of the city on Sukhumvit Road about two kilometres past Pattaya Underwater World, on the way to Sattahip. The Four Regions Floating Market has been divided into four sections – one for each region of the country. Here, food is the main attraction. Highlights include noodle soups, pad thai (stir-fried rice noodles), kanom jean (rice vermicelli) with different kinds of curries, ka nom krok (coconut pancake), foi thong (golden threads), thong yip (sweet egg yolk) and more. Besides food stalls and shops, the market also features other educational and entertaining attractions. There is also a daily free show featuring four cul-
30 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
tural performances. The Four Regions Floating Market Pattaya is a good place to go for those who have yet to visit a real Thai floating market. Covering an area of 100,000 sqm, the Four Regions Floating Market cost 350 million baht to build and has over 114 shops and water vendors. For a floating market experience, hire a boat to get around and discover the richness of the surrounding Thai architecture and riverside life. Typically, the boat is big enough for four people and can be hired for a small fee for around 30 minutes. Just walking through the hundreds of wooden houses built in the different styles of the four regions is also fun.
Go-Karting in Pattaya H
as it been your dream to tear a racing track down with speed oozing out the tip of your toes? At the Pattaya Kart Speedway, one of the most well known and not to mention biggest track in Thailand, that is indeed possible. They provide karts for all likes of drivers, be it slow, fast or even those who come with a family. Those who prefer a more earthy challenge can reign on the off-road track available for dirt bikes, ATVs or dune buggies. Should you feel hungry or in dire need of some refreshment, there are drinks at the Race-Track bar and Pim’s Restaurant, serving Thai and European dishes. As a pioneer in this line, Pattaya Kart Speedway boasts 15 years of experience in providing an exciting experience of go-karting and other extreme sporting, such as Bungee Jumping or Paint-Ball, to locals and foreigners alike. If sitting back and watching a race is what you prefer, the Bira Circuit, lo-
cated a short distance from the seaside resort town of Pattaya, is the only internationally certified racetrack in Thailand. Named after the famous Prince Bira, the first and only Thai driver to race in Formula One, its extensive facilities include a full-service karting track, an off-road test track, and FIA certified 2.41km racetrack. The racing site is conveniently situated on State Highway 36 between Pattaya and Rayong, around 20 km from downtown Pattaya and 120 km from Bangkok. Visitor areas at Bira Kart offer grandstand seating, international food and drinks, public restrooms, and ample parking spaces. Races organised take place throughout the year and the admission to most organised events is free. In addition to hosting regular racing events throughout the year, Bira Circuit is also fully equipped to host private functions such as race meetings, driving schools, testing programs and corporate events.
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157/178 Moo 5, Soi Naklua 18., T.Naklua, A.Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Thai Thani Pool Villa Resort PATTAYA THAILAND
Mobile. +66 (08) - 1806-4763 / Tel. +66 (038) 371-329 / Fax. +66 (038) 371-330 Email: info@thaithani.co.th, reservations@thaithani.co.th www.thaithanipoolvilla.com
June 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 31
Where to Stay?
Peaceful and Stylish in Busy Pattaya H
otel Tropicana is for many long time residents inextricably associated with a nice long weekend in Pattaya. The hotels enjoys a central location in north Pattaya, right on the beach road, a few steps away from the famous energetic life of Pattaya, with its shopping venues, entertainments, eateries, and the many sports activities available on the beach. Having undergone a facelift, Hotel Tropicana comprises 184 well-appointed Cabana superiors and junior suites, along with our Main wing rooms. Superior rooms in the main wings are overlooking the swimming pool and spacious gardens. All rooms have lounging balconies, with ground level rooms having ground access to the swimming pool from their balconies. With its warm Asian hospitality, the hotel also continues to be a popular haven for those who simply want to kick back and relax in the room or at one of the two swimming pools. Hotel Tropicana also has its own beauty salon and Thai massage for relaxing.
Your Private Weekend Villa V
isiting Pattaya for a truly special weekend, you will find Thai Thani Pool Villa Resort both luxurious and charming with its traditional Thai architecture style - yet including all modern facilities. Staying in your individual villa you will even have your private swimming pool and private BBQ garden. Perfect for a family weekend - or a romantic couple of days. Choose a villa with 1, 2 or 3 bedrooms each with terrace living room and kitchen. The 2 and 3 bedroom villas are laid out like a fully functioning private home with kitchen, dining table and TV area. All rooms are fitted with a flat-screen TV, a DVD player, safe, mini-bar and free Wi-Fi. Guests at Thani Thai can get active at the fitness centre, or unwind with a massage or spa treatment. The restaurant at the Thai Thani Resort serves local specialities, European and Halal food. But the resort also offers to provide freshly caught seafood and a variety of meat and vegetable and set up a BBQ grill party in your garden. The location is exceptional too. It is located to the north of Pattaya City Centre, a short drive north of the dolphin fountain and then to the left towards Wongamart Beach. The resort offers a free shuttle to Pattaya.
32 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
The Colors Of Life
Phangan Bayshore Resort and Spa Haad Rin Beach Phangan Bayshore Resort and Spa is directly on Haad Rin Nok, at the heart of the action most suitable for the Full Moon Party
and to enjoy the exotic nightlife available at Haad Rin.
141 Moo 6, Haad Rin, Bantai, Koh Phangan , Suratthani Thailand Tel: 66 77 375224, 375227 Fax : 66 77 375226
Email : info@phanganbayshore.com
25 Billion Loan Scheme
By Steen Poulin Nielsen
T
he Thai Cabinet approved in May a plan to grant mortgage loans at a 0% interest rate for the first two years to aid first-home buyers. The bank will also pay the 1% mortgage fee and 2% transfer fee for customers and when launched it was an immediate success as almost 5,900 people have lodged applications for special loans worth a combined 8.88 billion baht at the Government Housing Bank in the first day of the loan launch, according to Bangkok Post. The loan, which will be provided by the Government Housing Bank, is only applicable to homes worth no more than THB3 million. Building a home in Thailand can be a tricky business for an expat due to the restricted rules of owning land. So, you got to find your way to find a piece of land for your house. Various methods is in use by expats, from leasing land on renewable 30 years leasehold contracts, to make an usufruct agreement with the legal land owner or to set up a Thai Limited company as a owner of the land. Or, if married, to let the Thai wife be the legal owner. None of the above methods are bombproof. Securing the expats values and seeking legal advice is highly recommended.
Building a sub-one million house Building a home for less than one million Baht is possible. Icons House are selling prefabricated wooden houses. Icons House is offering Mokusei Grand a 5x8.5 meter building at 890.000 Baht. Mokusei Grand comes with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 kitchen, and a living room The 890.000 Baht includes the foundation concrete underground work, system electricity indoor work, system water work, tiles for kitchens, bathrooms and living room. Also sanitary ware, system termites work and paintwork is included.
The Mokusei house in its basic version comes with no frills: Aircons, carpets, rain gutters, canopy over windows and other improvements must be added by the owner later. Being build of wood the house is not too difficult to alter for the DIY-owner. 34 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
for First-Home Owners
The all-wood interior of the Mokusei house does not look too far from the interior of classic Scandinavian summerhouses. The owner can leave the walls as they are, add wallpaper or paint the wood panels. June 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 35
Admirals Pub Ride in Pattaya / Jomtien By Bent Låsholdt / Hans Henrik Melchior
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he Viking Wheelers Weekend of 28th an 29th May 2011 was joined by 13 Vikings on the first day of the annual rides in the Pattaya area. They were: Morten Luxhoi with his support team consisting of Tai, her 9 years old son Focus and 12 years old niece New, Jan Peter Jensen, Kenn Lauritzen, Finn Sørensen, Fred Olmheim, Claus Gundersen (new Viking Wheeler), Bjorn Hammarberg, Hans Henrik Melchior, and the two organizers Bent Låsholdt and Claus Birk. As the morning was overcast, the team started cycling south along the Jomtien beach in wonderful cycling weather. After a short stint on Sukhumvit Road, the daring Vikings turned inland on scenic country roads and uphill towards the first pit-stop at the Buddha Mountain. Suddenly, just before the arrival at the first pit-stop, the riders at the rear end of the group heard a loud “bang”, and thought it was a
gunshot until, after investigating the incident, it turned out that it was Hans Henrik’s rear tyre which had exploded. So he now had an excuse to sit in the car during the part of the ride with the toughest hills. Shortly after the pit-stop, while going downhill at high speed, Bent’s chain jumped off so, at the bottom of the hill, he had to stop and fix it, which took some time (by that, he actually got his first greasy and dirty hands in many years!) and the other riders got far in front. Morten was leading a small group with his “support team” and Claus Gundersen and was so busy flirting with Tai that he missed the turn towards Wat Yansang Wararam, leading this group onto a major detour. Hans Henrik in the support vehicle only realized this when, on a long hill after the Wat, he could not see Morten and his team in front of them, so the support vehicle quickly drove up to the front riders to be sure that Morten was really lost, and
36 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
then back to find them. Impossible to say who was most happy, Morten seeing the car again or Hans Henrik having found Morten and his lost team. Bent had suffered from blisters under one of his feet from the beginning of the ride and just before the second pitstop the pain had become too strong, so he had to give up, handing his bike to Hans Henrik, so he could ride the last leg, mostly downhill, back to Jomtien Beach. The front riders made the detour through South Pattaya and up the very steep Buddha Hill (near the Royal Cliff Hotel), however, due to the delays caused by the Morten team’s detour, this team regrettably had to skip this challenge, in order not to be too late for lunch. The two children, Focus and New, did very well and cycled about 52K including the challenging hills. After a quick shower all riders proceeded to Admiral’s Pub, where everybody enjoyed a delicious lunch with Cool Green Carbohydrates and Norwegian Linie Akvavit (Viking Wheelers call it “Potato Juice”. In the evening a good dinner at Boo Ben Seafood restaurant at the south end of Jomtien Beach Road, after which the reporters were disqualified from participating in the further events. But rumors have it that some went to Pattaya and watched the early morning Champions League final before returning to the hotel for a couple of hours sleep before the Sunday ride. Sunday morning the sun was shining from a clear sky, so this became a very hot day. The group again turned south on Jomtien
Beach Road before they turned inland towards Huai Yai and then north towards the Siam Country Club. All riders knew that there would be tough hills during the Saturday ride, however, the Sunday ride turned out to be tougher, as it went uphill during the entire first half of the ride until the turning point at HW 331. We even passed a train and an airplane, which appeared to have given up getting any further several years ago. After the turning point the Vikings cycled past Pong and along the Map Prachan Reservoir and then back to Jomtien. Almost the entire ride, also this day, was on quiet , scenic country roads. It was a happy but tired group of Viking Wheelers, who returned to Splendid Resort at about noon. Tai and the two children again did very well, only stopping after the 2nd pitstop at about 52K. Again a quick shower and then another delicious lunch, this time no potato Juice but with a few Cool Green Carbohydrates at Admirals Pub, before returning to Bangkok or Khao Yai. Jan Peter Jensen had signed up late and when asked what made him sign up he said that it was Claus Birch’s promise that there would be tail wind all the way both days. When this turned out not to be entirely true he filed a complaint, which was promptly forwarded to the Viking Wheelers Claims Manager, Mads Tranum Nielsen, who according to his Skype profile is still in Russia. We also missed our always active President Khun Henrik, who was reported seen walking slowly along the great Chinese Wall.
Sunda Resort Krabi RELAX & ENJOY THE NATURE AT ITS BEST!!!!!
Come stay with us at Sunda Resort, where you will always be welcomed with a warm, friendly smile. You will experience nature at its best in the tranquil, garden setting and are just fews minute to beautiful Nopparat Thara beach. Make Sunda Resort your “Home Away From Home” and discover the true hospitality of Thailand - The Land of Smiles. Sunda Resort 19 Moo. 3, Ao-Nang, Muang Krabi 81000 Thailand Tel: +66 7566 1262-4, +66 89 230 9019 Fax: +66 7566 1266 E-mail: info@sundaresort.com, sales@sundaresort.com Website: www.sundaresort.com
Feel Refreshed at Fineday
“Many a Fine Day” is what we would like you to experience here at Krabi Fineday Resort. We are located in the Aonang-Haad Noppharatthara area. Here you can enjoy nature at its best and fully appreciate the tranquility of life. All guestrooms are designed as Thai style cottages, nestled closely to the abundant nature, where the stunning landscape will remind you of a tropical garden. Krabi Fineday Resort 239 Moo 5, Aonang, Muang, Krabi 81000 Thailand Tel: +66 7566 1040-1 Fax: +66 7566 1042 E-mail: reservation@krabifinedayresort.com, info@krabifinedayresort.com www.krabifinedayresort.com
Gurish Samui Validity Period
1 Apr 2011 – 31 Jul 2011
The Luxury Suite
11,900
The Poolside Suite
13,900
The Plunge Pool Suite
15,900
The Luxury Pool Villa
27,900
The Ocean Pool Villa
33,900
Inclusions
Cocohut Beach Resort
C
ocohut village is located on Leela beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on Phangan island, which is just five minutes walk from the Haad Rin beach’s Full Moon Party.
Special price for low season 2011 June 20 - July 10 2011 Wooden bungalow 2,200.- special 1,950.Hill Side bungalow 2,200.- special 1,950.The Cliff bungalow 2,900.- special 2,500.Senior bungalow 3,500.- special 3,000.Pool Terrace 6,000.- special 4,500.Beach front Pool Villa 8,000.- special 6,500.Special promotion for room type Pool Terrace minimum stay 3 nights. From June 20 - July 10 2011 Rate for 3 nights 18,000.- pay only 12,000. (for 3 nights Include breakfast for 2 person) Special price for high season 2011 Oct 16 - Nov 5 2011, Nov 15 - Dec 5 2011 Wooden bungalow 2,800.- special 2,300.Hill Side bungalow 2,800.- special 2,300.The Cliff bungalow 3,700.- special 3,000.Senior bungalow 4,500.- special 3,800.Pool Terrace 7,000.- special 4,500.Beach front Pool Villa 9,500.- special 7,000.-
Special Offer: 1.Free wifi services at the lobby area and restaurant. 2.Free Roundtrip transfer from Haad Rin pier to Resort. 3. Free Kayak services for 2 hours for guests who stay in Pool Villa and Pool Terrace rooms. 4. Special rates for Spa. 5.HONEYMOON BENEFIT: Welcome honeymoon drinks, flower decorated room upon arrival. **This promotion rate includes daily American Breakfast for two. ***Booking in advance would receive 10% discount. Valid until 15 Dec.2010 For The cliff bungalow , Pool Terrace and beach front Pool Villa type rooms. This 10% discount cannot be used during any special promotion.
For more information please contact Cocohut Resort & Spa 130/20 Had Rin Nai, Sun set, Leela or Seekantang Beach, Moo 6 T.Bantai, A.Koh Phangan Suratthani 84280 Thailand Tel.+66 (0) 77 375 368-9, Fax +66 (0) 77 375 368 www.cocohut.com, Email: rsvncocohut@gmail.com, info@cocohut.com 38 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
• • • • • • • • • •
Daily breakfast buffet at CHA Restaurant Roundtrip airport transfers from/to Samui International Airport One western set dinner at CHA Restaurant Workout exercise by Fit Ball or Medicine Ball or Dumbbell Enjoy daily activities of Fish Feeding, Champion of the Day and A Celebration of the Day Signature welcome drink served chilled upon arrival Seasonal exotic fresh fruits plate served in guest villa and suite upon arrival Wi-Fi internet access available throughout the resort, villa and suite Usage of resort’s main outdoor Pool, The Dock, The Gym and The Library Usage of resort’s non-motorized water sport equipments
Terms & Conditions • • • • • • •
Payment of 2 nights package price is required at the time of booking and non-refundable Package is subject to a minimum stay of two (2) consecutive nights Rates are net inclusive of all applicable government taxes and service charges Rates are quoted in Thai Baht per room per package for two persons Reservations can be made within seven days prior to arrival Unused services are non refundable and cannot be redeemed for cash This offer is not valid in conjunction with any other special offer
Bangkok Sales & Marketing Office Telephone: +66 (0) 2957 5813 and +66 (0) 2957 5814 Facsimile: +66 (0) 2158 2703 Email: rsvn@gurichsamui.com Website: http://gurichsamui.com
Two Forty Eight Café & Bar
Bhavana Home Stays
B
havana Home stays a combination of bed and breakfast suitable for self sufficient travellers interested in holistic retreat , mind fulness and insight meditataion. Our facilities are including Meeting/Seminar for 25 persons Meditation room/library with Thai/English Buddhist books Multipurpose roof deck with Khao Yai panorama views for Yoga, Walking Meditation, & BBQ Party Organic vegetable and fruits gardens Balcony with Khao Yai panorama views Individual air-condition control unit Windows with mosquito screen TV with cable satellite Hot water shower Complimentary in-room coffee/tea set Complimentary 2 bottles of purified water Room rate - Baht 2,000 for Double bed inclusive of Breakfast Baht 3,000 for Tripple inclusive of Breakfast Further information please see our blog: http://bhavana-homestays.blogspot.com
T
wo Forty Eight Café & Bar the trendy new restaurant and latest addition to Ratchadapisek Road’s dining scene, proudly introduces a special European styled menu available daily for dinner from June 1st August 31st 2011. The tantalizing and creative dishes will be prepared by Executive Chef Teekanun Mandachitra and are sure to please even the most discerning food lover. All special mouth-watering items are additional to the main menu and will be prepared with the freshest of ingredients. The selection of appetizers and salads include healthy dishes such as Norwegian Smoked Salmon with Fresh Tomato Salsa and Guacamole Mousse and Grilled White Prawn & Mango with Rocket Salad and Orange Yoghurt Dressing. For a savory soup, Chef Teekanun has created a Puree of Leek & Potato with Truffle Essence. The main dish selections are Pan-roasted Salmon Fillet with Potato Gratin and Beurre Blanc Sauce or Australia Veal Tenderloin with Potato Gratin and Marsala Wine Sauce. For dessert, a warm Chocolate Lava Cake with Almond and Blueberry Coulis complete your delicious meal. These special menu items are price between THB 120* - THB 490*.
Two Forty Eight Café & Bar is located on 1st and 2nd floors of Northgate Ratchayothin Serviced Residence, just opposite to SCB Park on Ratchadapisek Road. Open daily from 6:30 am - 11:00 pm. Seating capacity can accommodate up to 78 persons. For more information, please call 0-2939-7949 email reservation@ northgatebangkok. com www. northgatebangkok.com *Remark: Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 7% VAT.
Five-Star Organic Retreat Opens at Khao Sok
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For further information please contact: Akino Nourdine Sales & Marketing Representation for Thanyapura E-mail: akino@thanyapura.co.th Mobile: +61 45 865 7701 www.thanyapura.com Mark Armsden Delivering Asia Communications E-mail: ma@deliveringasia.com Tel: +66 (0) 2 246 1160 Mobile: +66 (0) 84 121 4930
40 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
estled among a plethora of palm trees under the soaring karst limestone mountains of Khao Sok National Park, Thanyamundra launches this Spring as a one-of-a-kind luxury retreat on a working organic farm. Thanyamundra Organic Resort; luxury in the foothills of the wonderful Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand. For high-res image please click here. Two hours drive from Phuket International Airport, with its comprehensive regional and international air connections, Thanyamundra provides an easily accessible escape from urban life on the most intimate scale. Personal service under the leadership of butlers trained at some of Thailand’s finest hotels, an English-speaking chef with an extensive Thai and international repertoire and talented massage therapists on call are matched at Thanyamundra by visiting experts and teachers, world renowned in their fields, from sports to yoga and meditation to environmental science and visual arts. Thanyamundra’s dedicated butlers lead their guests on arrival to the retreat’s seven elegant guest rooms and two spacious master suites split across the two contemporary villas. All are fully equipped with modern comforts from high-speed wireless Internet and LCD flat screen televisions to Thai silk interiors and spacious private bathrooms with separate rain showers. Suites with generous terraces overlook the verdant panorama of rice paddies and fruit trees to the wild bamboo jungle and ancient rock formations of Khao Sok National Park. Thanyamundra Organic Resort; luxury in the foothills of the wonderful Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand. For high-res image please click here. At all times of the year, Thanyamundra welcomes its guests, limited to twenty at a time, to explore the groundbreaking 12 hectare (1600 square metre) organic farm with charismatic Pierre Larigaldie who oversees these visionary crop fields. Since Larigaldie began preparing the earth here four years ago, all plantings have been 100% organic and chemical free and today Thanyamundra’s organic farm is the only one in southern Thailand with an Agricultural Certificate of Thailand (ACT), part of the International Organic Accreditation Service. Rows of aromatic Thai and Italian basil, dill, coriander and chilies run parallel to white and purple eggplants, red snake beans, winged peas, bitter gourd and morning glory, then onward to avocadoes, papaya, passion fruit, mango and a variety of banana trees. Thanyamundra boasts a variety of invigorating fitness and leisure facilities. Swim laps or sun bathe alongside the 50-metre hilltop infinity pool, stay fit with the latest Technogym equipment in gym open around the clock, or take to the blissfully quiet surrounding roads for running or cycling. Equally restorative and invigorating are Thanyamundra’s Thai and holistic spa treatments, meditation, yoga and Pilates sessions.
Medium
Potato Salad With this recipe for 4 persons you can easily make one of the most delicious lunch dishes enjoyed by all Scandinavians. 15 egg sized Potatoes
Evil
2 1/2 dl. sour cream 2 1/2 dl. soured milk or yogurt natural - not sweetened! 2 teesp. sweet mustard 2 tablesp. teared shallots 2 teesp. lime 2 teesp. fresh chives 2 teesp. parsley Salt and pepper Tomatoes as garnish- optional
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:
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Mobile:
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Deadline for submitting your solution is 15 July 2011 42 ScandAsia.Thailand • June 2011
• Boil the potatoes with the skin on and peel the skin of when the potatoes are cooled - that makes the potatoes more firm. • Slice the potatoes, on the long side, into three or four slices, not too small. • Mix the wet ingredients in a bowl, add the rest of the ingredients, taste with salt and pepper to suit your taste and finally add the peeled potatoes. • Turn it all around in the bowl with a big spoon carefully, to preserve the potatoes from breaking. Top with some fresh spices and tomatoes. • Let it calm/cool in the refrigerator for at least 30 min.
Tip: Alternative to sour cream is to use yogurt natural add with a bit of sugar, olive oil and whipped cream. Then you will also get a more calorie reduced salad. Make it your own personal salad! Add other vegetable with the potatoes for instance pineapple, mango or whatever you like. The best fruit or vegetables to add are the hard ones, so they wont get smashed.