NOV 2011
Thailand
Kristian Bø: Steady As You Go ScandAsia.dk
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Coming Events Historical Excursion Tour to Chulachomklao Fortress Date: 20 November, 10 am to 4 pm
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The Scandinavian Society Siam invites anyone interested to join a one day historical trip to the fortress and park of Chulachomklao Fort from where the battle against the French was fought in 1893- with considerable Danish assistance. The trip will be lead by Flemming Winther Nielsen, who has done extensive research on the fort and its Danish connections. After having explored the fort, participants will also be able to explore a laid out path through the mangroves, where life started. Tour fee is only 250 THB/person excl. lunch. Sign up by mail to flemming_winther@hotmail.com.
ScandAsia is the only magazine that covers all the Danish, Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish residents in Thailand.
Norwegian Christmas Dinner
We also publish a ScandAsia magazine in China, Singapore and the rest of South East Asia.
Date: 25 November 2011 Location: 3 girls restaurant
Please sign up for your own FREE copy: www.scandasia.com Publisher : ScandAsia Publishing Co., Ltd. 4/41-2 Ramintra Soi 14, Bangkok 10230, Thailand Tel. +66 2 943 7166-8, Fax: +66 2 943 7169 E-mail: news@scandasia.com Editor-in-Chief : Gregers A.W. Møller gregers@scandmedia.com Advertising : Finn Balslev finn@scandmedia.com Piyanan Kalikanon piyanan@scandmedia.com Nattapat Maesang nattapat@scandmedia.com Sasiprapa Silatham Email: sasiprapa@scandmedia.com
DanCham Christmas Lunch
Nordmenn i Hua Hin (NiHH) will have the first Christmas dinner on 25 November 2011 at 3 girls restaurant. The ticket is 1,000 baht/person. If you are interested to attend the event or want to be a member, please contact info@nordmennihuahin. com. Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate with Norwegian residents in Hua Hin.
Date: 25 November 2011 Location: The Royal Danish Embassy The Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce invites members and friends to its annual DanCham Christmas Lunch on 25 November 2011. The venue will be the Royal Danish Embassy. Tickets for members are 1,600 baht/person and 2,100 baht/person for non-members. There are ONLY 250 seats available so please hurry up. Booking at www.dancham.or.th or contact@dancham.or.th.
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Daily news and features here: www.scandasia.com
Bus Trip to IKEA in Samutprakarn Date: 7 December 2011
Svenskföreningen i Hua Hin invites you to join the Bus Trip from Hua Hin to IKEA store in Samutprakarn on 7 December 2011. It is the interesting trip to the first IKEA store in Thailand. IKEA store is located on southwestern corner of Bangna-Trad Road and Eastern Ring Road: Bangplee-Suksawat Expressway intersection in Bangkaew District. More information about the event, please email to info@svenskforeningenhuahin.se or visit www. svenskforeningenhuahin.se.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BY SCANDINAVIAN SOCIETY
HuahinDK Networking
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n the evening of 14 October 2011, the members of HuahinDK showed up at Mondo Vino for the monthly networking. There were about 50 participants. This time there were many newcomers. “First I didn’t expect that there would be so many people this time because some are in Denmark and it is raining heavily today,” Steve Laursen told ScandAsia about this networking “But there are still many people here. There will be bigger group in November and December.” At the event, many small activities were arranged such as the book group where they can borrow books and return in the next networking, wine testing, and jewelry presentation. Therefore the participants could enjoy around. Another big discussion among the participants was the serious flooding disaster in Thailand. The party ended about 10 pm but the rain was still pouring.
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Jewelry presentation. Wine testing. Steve is announcing the special promotion from Baan Chang Bar. Book club. 3 ladies with smile.
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SEB Equity Seminar SEB
hosted on Thursday 20 October 2011 an evenings seminar for members of all the four Nordic Chambers of Commerce in Thailand with the title “Bracing for Volatility”. The seminar was attended by around 60 members and other invited guests. Mr. Peter Bjork, Executive Director for the Swedish-Thai Chamber of Commerce, and Ole Hamre, General Manager at SEB Private Banking Singapore, welcomed the participants. Mr. Timothy Wong, Regional Head of Research at DBS Vickers, was the speaker of the evening’s seminar. The starting point was the drop in Asian equity markets in Q3 2011 as fears of a double-dip recession globally and a worsening Euro crisis. Investors are asking where the bottom of the market could be? Mr. Timothy Wong discussed equity strategies to ride out the volatility and also how to position for opportunity once the current bearish mood reaches capitulation stage. The evening ended with dessert and networking.
6 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
From right: Mr. Timothy Wong (DBS Vikers), Mr. Peter Bjork (TSCC), Mr. Nicholas Burton (SEB) and Mr. Ole Hamre (SEB)
Delicious canap? buffet and small talk before the seminar starts Photos: Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce
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“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
Norwegian Meeting in Hua Hin
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n Thursday 13 October, about 50 Norwegian people living in Hua Hin gathered for meeting at City Beach Hotel. As the total number of members is 100 persons, it was a very fine turn-out. “The association has been established less than one year and we get more and more members,” Jan P. Pettessen told ScandAsia about the fast expanding association. “I can’t organize all events alone so I encourage our member to arrange their event based on their interest. We are going to have a Thai language group, golf event, or book exchange group. We will invite the special guest to provide necessary info. We will have insurance theme, heath and others living involvement.”
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Jan talked about some important event: “Our first Christmas Dinner will be held on 25 November at 3 girls restaurant. I hope it will be the big party for our community. The Annual Meeting will be held on 15 February 2012 which will be our first year anniversary. “ If you are Norwegian living in Hua Hin and interested to be a member, please contact info@ nordmennihuahin.com. Visit them on facebook Nordmenn i Hua Hin (NiHH) or official website - http://www.nordmennihuahin.com.
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8 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
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From left: Ole Jakob Wang and Jan P. Pettessen From left: Gerd Julin Pettersen and Anna Dorothea From left: Anne Rarin Pettersen and Finn Blixt Participants concentrated on the presentation.
Nordea Evening with Dancham
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ric Pedersen, Nordea Asia-Pacific’s Head of Private Banking and Funds based in Singapore, was in town on Wednesday 19 October 2011 to host a Networking evening in Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce. Some fifty members had braved flooding threats and selected the Nordea event in competition with the Birthday Party of Stable Lodge. Eric Pedersen introduced the Nordea bank and its services of which wealth management is one of three main products. The other two being Retail Banking and Wholesale Banking. Nordea was the first among the Nordic banks to open an office in Singapore 25 years ago and remains committed to serve the Nordic expats in the region not only with wealth management but also with other banking services. Nordea’s credit ratings by Moody’s and Standard & Poors are Aa2 and AA respectively and has funding costs that are lower than even some countries in Europe. The main part of his presentation, Eric Pedersen committed to sharing his knowledge on wealth management decisions when balancing risk with expected return. The participants enjoyed a delicious buffet at Dust Thani Hotel and a free flow of beer, wine and soft drinks.
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1. Eric Pedersen, host of the evening, with Finn Balslev, Scandinavian Publishing and Poul Jepsen, KVIK Kitchen. 2. Jørgen B. Thostrup, Claus Sørensen, Nordea and Savija P. Korslund, Danish-Thai Chamber of Commerce 3. Thomas Fatzler, i-Tracking Thailand, Santhapat Periera, Tilleke & Gibbins, and Leo Alexandersen, Pacific Relocation and Orientation. 4. Suvapee Sirikulvadhana, Nederman (in the middle) helped the Dancham Team with the registration of participants. From left Paranee Jansawake, Jeanet Callesen and Savija P. Korslund.
Find one Private Banking advisor, then make sure he knows many specialists Wealth management today involves much more than selecting the best stocks and bonds. At Nordea Private Banking, we offer you an experienced personal advisor and a comprehensive overview of your wealth based on thorough research and rigorous analysis. One private banker, many specialists – making it possible. Contact Nordea Singapore on +65 6317 6522, or e-mail eric.pedersen@nordea.com
Eric Pedersen, Private Banker
Nordea Bank S.A, Nordea Bank Finland Plc and Nordea Bank AB (publ) are part of the leading financial services group in the Nordic and Baltic Sea regions. Being the leading Nordic pan-European banking entity in Luxembourg, Nordea Bank S.A. focuses on international Wealth Management, Fund Distribution and Fund Management services. Our 400 employees serve a wide spectrum of international clients in more than 125 countries. Some products and services mentioned may, due to local regulations, not be available to individuals resident in certain countries. Published by Nordea Bank Finland Plc, Singapore Branch, 3 Anson Rd #22-01, Springleaf Tower, Singapore 079909. AD_Ericpedersen_192x135_eng.indd 1
8/29/11 1:57 PM
Stable Lodge 19th Anniversary Celebration
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table Lodge started its Birthday Party this year on 19 October at 6.00 pm with a free flow of finger food and beverage. The dinning tables and line buffet were set up by the pool. Khun Steffen Ingemann and Khun Nim walked around and personally greeted the guests who had come to congratulate them and wish them continued success. “Welcome my friends to celebrate Stable Lodge’s Birthday. Today she turns 19 year old and I am so proud of her,” Steffen said. “Tonight we will have dinner together and please donate to help flood victim in Thailand. Earlier this evening, my wife jumped into the pool to get the money that one of you threw in there. Just give it to her, don’t let her jump again!” Steffen then introduced his new partner Khun Navara who has just opened a spa next to the hotel. “Tonight, we serve you a massage free of charge,” he added. At the end of the party, the total donation was about 50,000 baht which will be given to flood victim in Thailand. Stable Lodge Hotel and Restaurant is located in Soi Sukhumvit 8 and just 300 meters from Nana BTS station. It is the best traditional Scandinavian service in town.
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1. Guests enjoyed dinner together 2. Khun Steffen Ingemann and Khun Nim 3. Pailin Ingemann and Monthol Jira 4. Khun Navara and her family 5. The cute couple who always visits Stable Lodge
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Lundbaek’s 67 Year Birthday Celebrated with Soft Opening of Admiral’s Pub By Indius Pedersen
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orgen Lundbaek celebrated on Wednesday 12 October 2011 his 67 year birthday with a soft opening of the bar in his new Mermaid Hotel in Sukhumvit Soi 29 managed by Admiral Pub & Restaurant. The pub was filled with around 200 party revellers celebrating Jorgen Lundbaek and at the same time satisfying their curiousity as to how the new Admiral Pub & Restaurant was coming along. At three in the afternoon, the walls in the pub were still being painted and the Carlsberg draught system was only being tested. Still, when the first guests trickled in a few minutes to seven, the whole place was clean and ready for the celebrations. Wanna Laasholdt’s work with the traditional Admiral favorites and other snacks was highly appreciated and all food disappeared fast. By nine, hotdogs were brought in and hardly hit the table before they were snapped up. Admiral Pub & Restaurant will remain open as a pub until the restaurant and the rest of the hotel will eventually be finished and ready for a grand opening later.
Next: Mermaid The soft opening of Admiral’s Pub & Restaurant is the first phase of the big 70-room Mermaid Hotel which should be finished in six weeks. “The project has been underway for six years. Now we are near the goal and I am very happy with the result. The idea to celebrate my birthday here put a lot of pressure on everybody to be finished in time for the party. And we made it!”said a happy Jørgen Lundbæk. The bar is beautifully decorated in marine style with ship parts collected mainly from Bangladesh which has one of the largest demolition sites of old ships in the world. Jørgen is an old seaman himself currently building an offshore Marine Station in Vung Tau, Vietnam. The ever active Jørgen Lundbæk shows no signs of slowing down despite now reaching the official retirement age in Denmark. Bent Låsholt and Wanna are also happy finally to be able to open the Admiral’s Pub and - in a few more weeks - also the Admiral’s Restaurant, where the menu will be the well known mix a western cuisine, Thai cuisine and Danish dishes.. “We’ve been waiting for a long time for this place to be opened and we’ll make sure it will also be a success,” Bent Laasholdt says. “Everyone says that it is a nice place we now have here and Na and I will run the bar and the restaurant for the hotel guests. There is also a pool bar, where we are in charge of the service.”
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Scandinavian Vikings Start Season with New Players and Sponsors By Richard Hammarsten
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ikings of today may not plunder and pillage like they used to, but they are, however, still spreading fear among their opponents' lines of defence. In Thailand today, modern Vikings fight their battles on a grass pitch, three referees make sure the rules of the battle are being followed and there's no bloodshed worth mentioning. Scandinavian Vikings is the name of a Bangkok football club, mostly made up of Scandinavian players. The football season is just about to begin and Johan Mühlman, the Vikings' manager since five years ago, will tell us more about the club, what it's like playing football in Bangkok and expectations for this year. Due to the extraordinarily long, wet rainy season this year, the first few games of the season have been postponed. This is something that Johan Mühlman, Scandinavian Vikings' manager and a Bangkok resident for 9 years, finds frustrating: "We are eager to start playing games. The whole team has been practicing hard all summer and now we want to know where we stand in comparison to the other first division teams." Scandinavian Vikings have been playing in the Bangkok Casual League, a league that is actually divided into two divisions, since the late 1980´s. Being a second division team last year, Vikings had a great season, finished second and were promoted. "It was a great feeling when we secured the promotion spot last season. I truly believe we belong in the first division, although it's difficult to tell from season to season as we have such a high turnover of players. We've lost 4 players from last season, but 3 new players have joined us in the last few months," says Mühlman. Approximately 70% of the players are from Scandinavia, but there are currently eight different nationalities in the squad, including Spanish, American and (of course) Thai. "We are a club founded by Scandinavians and the majority of our players have always been from Sweden and Denmark. The club is about
BNH Hospital representative Udo Kim and ScanDeli owner Göran Nyhlén posing with coach Johan Mühlman (centre) showing the Scan’s new shirts for the season.
Coach Johan Mühlman: “I do believe our squad is strong enough to finish 4th or 5th in the league.”
more than just football, it's also a gateway to new friends and social networks for, say, recently arrived expats who are here on a 1-3 year contract or exchange students who will stay for a semester. A lot of people who are now good friends never would have met without the Vikings, that I'm sure of."
Sponsors Scandinavian Vikings rely on sponsor money to cover league fees and rent of training facilities. The club's main sponsor, BNH Hospital, has been a great support for a number of years. Their commitment extends further than merely financial support; they have also provided medical care for injured players during league games and tournaments.
Recently, the Swedish restaurant Scandinavian Deli has decided to collaborate with the Vikings. According to Johan Mühlman, the restaurant makes a great meeting point for team members to socialize with fellow Scandinavians and others after games. Among the other sponsors this season, we find Jebsen & Jessen, United Relocations, SAS, 39 Restaurant, and Starkist. Johan Mühlman takes this opportunity to thank the sponsors before getting back to the coming season: "I'm optimistic, but we also have to be realistic. We do have a good mix of young talents and experienced players, among them Juuso Heikurainen, a former under 21 Finnish national goalkeeper who actually sidelined Peter Enkelmann for a while, and Anders Kargo Schmidt, the league's top scorer many times over who now makes his comeback for the Vikings.” “At the same time, we played in the second division last year and the first division is something completely different. First and foremost, our goal is to avoid relegation. But I do believe our squad is strong enough to finish 4th or 5th in the league.” “I'm sure it's going to be a great season with a lot of fun for everyone involved, both on and off the pitch!"
November 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 13
ScandAsia News Brief Carlsberg Steps Up Presence in Thailand
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arlsberg is now selling bottled beer in Thailand. The company established an office in Bangkok in the summer 2011 in order to prepare the relaunch of bottled Carlsberg beer in Thailand. Bottled beer will follow up on the success in selling Carlsberg draught in bars and restaurants where the target initially was 150 outlets. According to Mr. Jacob Vigsø Hermansen, General Manager of Carlsberg Thailand, the
bottled beer comes from Carlsberg’s brewery in Vietnam. The stepped up activity in Thailand shows in the organisation of the company. Until this summer, Thailand was part of the export business in Carlsberg Copenhagen. Now Carlsberg Thailand is a part of Carlsberg Indochina together with countries as Vietnam and Cambodja. The General Manager has been working with Carlsberg for the past nine years.
Norwegian Mine Clearing Action in Pattya
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Ikea Helps Flood Victims
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KEA, the leading home furnishing company from Sweden, will give the first 20 million Baht of its sales during the opening days 3-6 November to support victims of the flood in Thailand. Additional relief support will be given in form of goods such as blankets, cups and plates and possible additional articles that will be distributed to affected and hard reached areas. The donations are aimed at both addressing immediate needs and supporting the enormous efforts and resources that will be required to support the rebuilding of lives and getting back to everyday life after the water subsides. IKEA Thailand has decided to channel this support through partners which IKEA Thailand already have an established relationship with and/or which we believe can reach the many people in an effective and transparent manner: they are Mae Fah Luang Foundation under Royal Patronage and WWF Thailand. IKEA believes the home is the most important place in the world. So during these distressed times when millions of Thais are being displaced, losing their homes or have their homes severely damaged due to the worst flooding Thailand experienced in decades. IKEA hopes to support many affected people both with their instant urgent needs and eventually over time help them start to get their everyday life back in a self sustainable manner. 14 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
Thailand is one of the ‘forgotten victims’ of the legacy of the use of landmines in the early 1970’s. Thousands of landmines were laid by both sides when the Khmer Rouge were driven over into Thai territory, and even though the hostilities finished over 35 years ago the landmines still remain and the statistics of victims still do not stop.
orwegian Peoples Aid “Norsk Folkehjelp” had arranged a public campaign in Pattaya on 22-23 October to raise funds to be able to clear more mines in Thailand. The campaign in Pattaya was part of a nation wide campaign back in Norway called Telethon organized by Norwegian Peoples Aid “Norsk Folkehjelp” and the Norwegian national TV corporation NRK. Norwegian Peoples Aid “Norsk Folkehjelp” has been working in Thailand for the past 2 years with the Thailand Mine Action Centre (TMAC) and has been operational in Surin province since last May. The Norwegian Seaman’s Church in Pattaya hosted the event on Saturday 22 October where the participants could try the equipment and ‘find mines’ in a safe environment and ask questions to NPA staff. On the evening of the 23rd a number of Norwegian bars and restaurants brought live feed of the NRK Telethon. The main focus was at Kares Party Bar, Soi 2 Pattaya where NPA staff were present to discuss the activities. The participants learned that first of all, money is needed. Private donors may for example help buy a detector or fund a mine clearing staff for a year. Some examples of the costs in Thailand are: Detector: THB 98,000 Protective Mask: THB 11,000 Protective Vest: THB 17,000 Deminer (1 month): THB 20,000 (including insurances, a basic subsistence) Deminer (1 Year): THB 240,000 Water for the team (1 month): THB 8,00 If you consider giving your support, please contact Norwegian Peoples Aid’s Programme Manager Mr. Lee Moroney directly on leem@npaid.org or on his mobile phone +66(0)81.8866.914. He also has a hotmail: lpm_mobile@hotmail.com and a skype name: leemoroney NPA started activities in Thailand since 2000, carrying out the national Landmine Impact Survey (LIS) of Thailand. NPA resumed support to TMAC in 2008, mainly providing technical advice on TMAC’s capacities in strategic planning, on information management and introducing the concept of land release. In 2011 NPA partnered with the Thailand Civilian Deminers Association (TDA).
Q
Qatar Airways Launches Oslo Route
atar Airways’ maiden flight from Doha to Oslo, QR953, arrived at the Norwegian capital’s international airport to a traditional water salute welcome on October 5. Oslo is now Qatar Airways’ third Scandinavian gateway after Stockholm and Copenhagen, further cementing the carrier’s presence in the Nordic countries. Qatar will fly five days a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays on the following schedul: Depart Doha QR953 at 0825 hrs, arrive Oslo at 1440 hrs Depart Oslo QR954 at 1610 hrs, arrive Doha at 2355 hrs From Doha, there are convenient connecting flights to Bangkok. “Oslo is our seventh European destination launched so far this year,” said Al Baker on arrival in the Norwegian capital. “We are delighted to add this vibrant, scenic city of Oslo to our global route network, further strengthening our operations in Scandinavia and clearly proving how important this dynamic travel market is for Qatar Airways. We now operate 19 flights a week across three Scandinavian cities making Qatar Airways the biggest Gulf carrier in the Nordic market. “We look forward to bringing visitors from around the world to this diverse cultural city and to the great leisure and business destinations in the region. Norway has limitless attractions of mountains and fjords, a great magnet for tourists from around the world to experience and enjoy,” added Al Baker.
The captain and his crew wish you a dazzling stop-over in Paris, discovering its famous cafés, museums and fashion boutiques, with a daily flight from Bangkok to Paris - Charles de Gaulle, and on to more than 900 destinations with our SkyTeam partners.
airfrance.co.th
Royal Copenhagen Moves More Production to Thailand
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oyal Copenhagen has decided to move more production to Thailand. Only 10% of the production will be in Denmark according to the news agency Ritzau. Since 2004, Royal Copenhagen has moved more and more production to the Thai factory. Some of the world’s most expensive porcelain - Flora Danica - will still be produced at the Royal Copenhagen factory in Glostrup. The development and design departments will still be in Denmark. “We will always have our design and development in Denmark. It is the only way that we can maintain our anchorage and 236-year history in Denmark. Royal Copenhagen is Danish design, and will continue to be”, says Mads Ryder to Ritzau. Although Royal Copenhagen for many years has struggled with heavy losses, so it had been a matter of survival, if not Royal Copenhagen had allocated much of its production to Thailand, said the CEO.
November 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 15
Coming here in 1986, I immediately was very attracted by the friendliness of ordinary people and of the land, the climate and the economy and still am, although not idealizing things. I admit that I like Thailand more than Norway and will not move back, although always being a guest here
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Steady As You Go It’s ten minutes to two on a grey afternoon in September 2011. From my seat in the little old fashioned café on Sukhumvit, I spot my appointment entering the main door to the establishment. As so often, ten minutes early, composed and relaxed - typical Kristian Bø. By Flemming Winther Nielsen Photo by Claus Gundersen
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ne single word can of course not describe or characterize a person, but nevertheless: STEADY is what he is and what he is known to be - also as an engineer, as an ‘honorary’ golfer, chairman of a Church Council and as, now retired, editor. Let’s start on the golf course: “Why golf then Kristian, why not chess or tennis or diving”. “A coincidence really, I like sports like bicycling and running, sports that make your pulse beat really fast and make you sweaty. I regarded golf as a luxuries lazy man’s sport (‘latmanssport’ - a good Norwegian expression). But then I was invited to play a nine hole round and became really fascinated by the challenges; using the club the right way and sending the ball in the best possible direction for the hole. Then I also really like the social life in The Society’s golf section and would really recommend more members of the society to give it a try and play a round. They will be welcomed”.
How it worked out Laziness was never a part of life for Kristian Bø. He was born in 1933 on a farm in Randaberg near Stavanger in Norway. Randaberg is a cape situated farthest out on the Western Fjords, meeting the North Sea. Today a municipality with around 9.000 inhabitants; living in a quite rough part of the world, where hard manual work, at least in the time of Kristians childhood, was necessary for the existence. During the Second World War Norway couldn’t import foodstuff enough and the country cannot grow sufficient crop to feed the population. Because of the strategic location as the gate to the fjords, war reached Randaberg from day one, and in periods the family had to share their house with German soldiers and officers. What Kristian also remembers clearly is how landless members of the family and relatives came asking for help in the form of foodstuff from the farm, undoubtedly difficult in many ways sometimes, with most limited supply. 15 years old Kristian left school and started work as telegraph messenger. There was no tradition and no money for keeping him in school any longer. Meanwhile, the Public Telegraph Company offered courses and via free-time studying, grants and courses paid for, he after some years graduated as low-current engineer
from a technical school. Working at the same time all the way of course, climbing up the telephone poles, now installing automated telephone exchanges and other sophisticated inventions. In order to further his studies, where an academic background was a must, he joined a correspondence course for his artium (studentereksamen) and graduated in 1962 as a private. Then he could study for Civil Engineer and finally became Dr.of Engineering in 1971. This combination of work and studies was quite common in more Nordic countries after the war. The short listing above does not give a fair impression of the hardships involved. I know that from my own father who tried the same. But it was the chance for those with will, talent and skills but without any academic background - a chance and an extreme load of hard work to be put into it. Kristian did it and reached the final step of the telecommunication ladder of expertice.
In Thailand In 1986 a consultant company called and offered the then 53 years old Kristian Bø, executive telecommunication engineer, a four month expert job for a telecommunication company in Thailand. At that time he lived alone. The three now grown up children were married and his mother had passed away a few months earlier. “First I said no, I have a good life and challenges here, so why, but then: not so many strong bonds and obligations at home anymore. Four month I can stand and the conditions were favorable” -now he has been here for 25 years! In 2003 he married a Thai lady; she, by no means, wanted to live in urban Bangkok, so the couple bought a house between Rangsit and Nakhon Nayok. It doesn’t seem to bother the 77 years old to drive to Bangkok himself very frequently. “Coming here in 1986, I immediately was very attracted by the friendliness of ordinary people and of the land, the climate and the economy and still am, although not idealizing things. I admit that I like Thailand more than Norway and will not move back, although always being a guest here”. “But of course I have my roots in Norway and my wife and I visit every year. There are seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren now, so, of course”. Meanwhile Kristian Bø stayed in the telecom business and worked for
four years in TOT (Telecom Organization of Thailand). After that he got a very good position in CP-Telecom, later to be Telecom Asia and finally True Company. He ended the career as senior Vice President for Network Planning and retired in 2006. But in retirement still no laziness or ‘just’ golfing; also some principles and commitments to the community are involved here: “If people trust me to do something, carry something out, I will do it. In 1910 the general meeting of Scandinavian Society Siam appointed me as editor of ‘The Bulletin’, this although I was not present but in Norway; then okay, a new challenge”. After more years on the steering committee of the Golf section of SSS, where he was the Golf Captain, Kristian stepped down but was recently appointed honorary member. Furthermore he is appointed as senior advisor to the Thai-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce. Another important request came in 2008 when the Norwegian Seamen’s Church in Pattaya wanted Kristian as chairman of the Church Advisory Council. He accepted and still drive all the kilometers, chairs the meetings, join in for the service and for the famous evening meals. In this position a lot is learned also about social down trips and problems. Our talks ended with the question of getting old but keep fit and alert as foreigner in this country. Partly as a joke Kristian started to quote Nordahl Griegs long poem ‘Water’ (vand). We must drink water, be modest, live in a modest way and keep steady! Nordahl Grieg stayed in Shanghai as a war correspondent a short period around 1929. He obviously didn’t like The Far East and he couldn’t drink the water, plentiful of Gin and Tonic was offered. In the poem he describes the emptiness of the bar life compared to life in nature. I will quote only one verse, in Norwegian, impossible to translate: Vand Vand i Norge, vand af renhet, Hvor en lægger sig og drikker, Det er det jeg tænker paa. Kanske regner det saa sakte. Lyden siver ned i bækken, Mellem bjerkene og lyngen. Kanske ligger skodden graa. (From the collection of poems “Norge i våre Hjerter”)
November 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 17
Chef Daniel Isberg I know many people here, including many restaurateurs and hotel owners, so I know the area! It’s perfect up here in Surin! I like it a lot here. I think it’s brilliant and that it will work out well. I already have many followers coming when I do events here in the restaurant. I knew there’s a market for food guests who wants to venture into the kind of food I do.
Phuket has been endowed with a new restaurant by an adept chef who brings with him his Swedish roots as well as strong influence from the internationally oriented Californian cuisine, serving culinary surprises and clever wine pairings at his discreet dining outlet Surin Gate Kitchen. By Joakim Persson
F
rom 18-hour shifts seven days a week on board one of the most luxurious cruise ships on the planet and creating private dinners for Hollywood superstars, to opening up a restaurant in Marbella and serving as private chef to Polish actress Kasia Figura, the Swedish chef Daniel Isberg, aged 39, has landed on Phuket. Literally. Time to leave the international world of glam and celebrities behind, slightly. He has come to settle down and continue his life as a chef from here and continue working on his own ideas for new culinary concepts. After some hectic recent years in California it was time to take a breather. This is not to say he has taken time out though - gourmet diners and food lovers living on or visiting Phuket, take note!. “Of course there’s a lot of work to open a new restaurant the first season, I am aware of that. Eventually my goal is to get a quality life here in Thailand, and I know one does not become a millionaire but
18 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
my goal is to build a business that works well over here,” says Daniel when introducing himself. “This restaurant here has only sixty seats, and I chose to come in low season in order to start up in my style. I started from scratch, building step by step, so it’s a lot of work but I like that; it’s my life. To be a chef is not a job, it’s a lifestyle.”
Standing out Daniel Isberg is bringing something new to the island and has already gained a reputation for serving excellent cuisine. His unusual flavour combinations and taste sensations stand out. This has even caught the attention of some of the islands sommeliers who, Daniel says, have come as dinner guests, curious on his different takes on dishes along with just as striking wine pairings. “My style usually has a lot to do with unique tastes and combinations. I have worked with food and wine pairing so many years, including more than ten with The California Wine Institute, so I have
the knowledge,” he says with apparent self-confidence. He is enthusiastic about the opportunities on the island that he knows well from before, since he is a good friend with the Swedes behind Twinpalms Phuket “I know many people here, including many restaurateurs and hotel owners, so I know the area! It’s perfect up here in Surin! I like it a lot here. I think it’s brilliant and that it will work out well. I already have many followers coming when I do events here in the restaurant. I knew there’s a market for food guests who wants to venture into the kind of food I do.” Overall Daniel describes his cuisine as a mix of Sweden, California and Asia. “And Californian food means a bit French, Mexican, Asian and American.” “Other than that I do a bit of fusion style - unique combinations and nicely presented.”
Regular visitor Previously Daniel used to come to Thailand nearly once a year. “My first visit was around 15 years ago and I started practising Thai boxing. I returned here 2-3 months every year, but my vacation consisted in a Thai boxing camp, only eating healthy and feeling good - no cigarettes or alcohol. After such a cure you are so clear in your mind and feel incredibly good. One works a lot in restaurants and it’s one of the most stressful sectors in the world,” he explains the reason for such yearly “retreats”. “And during the years I have always said that one day I would like to move here. I love Thailand: the weather is superb; all these fresh spices, herbs and vegetables; and the people and the whole atmosphere. I have travelled the world and seen it all basically but Thailand remains close to my heart and means something special to me,” thinks the chef. So eventually the Swedish owner of Surin Gate Hotel, at the foot of the hill just before Surin
beach, could persuade him to open a restaurant there. Daniel has also been asked to offer something for the twenty-two Swedish apartment owners within the property. Thus there are some Swedish classics on the menu.
For a young chef it was also the ultimate challenge. Thanks to strong self-discipline, he did not give up and kept on going. And eventually he became Sous de Chef.
Cooking with Grandma
Since then he has worked around in the world; in Greece, and L.A and San Francisco in California - you name it. His Californian adventure started when he became a member of the California Mercenary Chefs, which invited him over for training in 2000. There he discovered the region’s abundance of market-fresh ingredients, the West-Coast style with its Mediterranean and Asian influences and the vineyards, all which has influenced his own gourmet cuisine. Catering became been big business for him over there, cooking at private events for a long list of Hollywood actors and artists. His business partner was part of the film industry and Daniel explains that his own style connects well with celeb-
Daniel started his cooking career cooking with his grandmother since the age of four. This lead to attending restaurant school in Sweden and soon he was accepted to the kitchen of Vau De Ville, back then Restaurant of the Year in Stockholm. Then things took a different turn. Daniel left Sweden thanks to recommendations got a chance to work on an extreme luxury cruise liner, in competition with hundreds of killed chefs. “I had always loved to travel and cook, but the ingredients used there I had not seen before in my whole life.” “It was more like a large overthe-top yacht, travelling around the world, flying in lobster via helicopter etc.,” he explains.
Cooking for the famous
rities. He may not be a ‘celebrity chef’ himself but he is by now certainly known to many stars.
Relaxed Phuket So, being successful in such glamorous surroundings, what is he bringing to Phuket? In fact a very laidback, style, believe it or not! Being casual and offering affordable dinners (except for of course the highly taxed imported wines) are important elements for Daniel. “I don’t do the white tablecloths. It’s casual, come as you are. I’m like that, I like that style.” “And I will do fun things, starting with a Saturday Pool Party Brunch in December with a brunch, bottomless Bloody Marys and Bellinis, a DJ or troubadour and sexy ladies in the pool.” He promises to come up with many new events including cooking classes for the housewives in the area. In addition to that he will cater to many weddings so now he is in a rush to build a skilled chefs team in order to be able to handle it all.
November 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 19
New Swedish Chaplain Welcome on Phuket The Revd Maria Eksmyr and her partner Ingvar Olofsson was warmly welcomed and blessed during a service, with representatives from the Church of Sweden, in Rawai on Phuket island.
to Maria Eksmyr. Then the Bangkok chaplain completed their unity by giving Maria and Ingvar a beautiful Thai scarf, which they put around their necks, and then the three embraced each other. The gathering – estimated to a total of 70 people - was blessed with sunny weather – after months of monsoon raining and which had also surprised the newly arrived priest couple recently by flooding their home upon the hill overlooking Kata beach!
Trädgården’s delicacies
By Joakim Persson
S
aturday 22 October was a beautiful day for the Church of Sweden and the Swedish community on the island, when the welcome reception and blessing of the recently arrived new Swedish priest couple on Phuket, The Revd Maria Eksmyr and her partner Ingvar Olofsson, took place with a complete service. Visiting as well as resident Swedes had turned up in large numbers. Nearly 70 community members - including Swedes, Thais and Norwegians etc. formed a record-breaking crowd at one single time for the Swedish restaurant Trädgården in Rawai on southern Phuket, hosted by Jörgen and Pat Sandström. Present were also the Church of Sweden’s chaplain from Bangkok, Lovisa Möller, as well as the former Phuket priest couple Per and Gennet Edler who joined in leading the blessings for their successor. Representatives of the Church of Sweden had flown in for the occasion: Anders Bergqvist, who is the man in charge for the church’s foreign activities, had arrived from a trip to South America and his colleague Krister Tholin, who is responsible for the region, had also come down all the way from Sweden to attend.
Responsible for the region within the Church of Sweden, Krister Tholin, welcomes the new priest couple to Phuket.
Maria Eksmyr wished she could have told the Thank You-prayer also in Thai language but that would have to come later. Anders Bergqvist led the prayer to welcome the new priest couple. Lovisa Möller welcomed them with a speech based on the theme of travelling into unknown pastures – Phuket is the first positioning outside Sweden for Maria Eksmyr and her assistant – and also lead the prayer asking God for forgiveness. In the “förbön” prayer Maria also prayed for Thailand’s development and that
20 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
the wealth would be shared among all citizens. For Maria Eksmyr this was the debut service in Thailand for a larger gathering. She wished she could have told the Thank You-prayer also in Thai language but that would have to come later. Lovisa Möller also dedicated the last song before the meal, The Rose,
Restaurant Trädgården had also made sure that a feat awaited the guests, including Swedish meatballs and other delicacies. “It has been very pleasant, the Revd Maria Eksmy summarized the day. “This was one of the first contacts we had actually, to go down here where there are many Swedes. This is a meeting point - the Swedish garden! And Jörgen has invited us saying we are welcome back again, which we are happy for. We are open for other places too; we are mobile, to meet people where they are. One must go with the flow and move around.” The new priest couple is based in their rectory overlooking Kata beach and where they will keep up the tradition of holding a bi-weekly sunset mass. Operational-wise the Church of Sweden in Southern Thailand is mobile and will work where Scandinavians are present, including regular visits to Kho Lanta, Krabi/Ao Nang and Khao Lak. Primarily for the Swedish community, Swedes here are invited to influence this work with suggestions and inviting the priest couple. The priest and her assistant are available to hold services, wedding blessings (which will be a large share of their tourist high season activities), renewing of marriage commitments, consultations, confessions and pastoral care. They will also visit prisons and hospitals and have contacts with Swedish schools etc.
% 15 ays t d n ou or 3 ore c f ef is l d sia y b " a i 1 A a ec and st 201 p . m " S Sc mu ec ly ini 5 D n o m 2
Gulf of
Gulf of Thailand
The Gulf of Thailand, also known as Gulf of Siam, is a shallow section of the South China Sea. By Gregers Moller
Thailand T
he Gulf of Thailand is surrounded by Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam. Bay of Bangkok is the northern edge of the gulf, which is at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River. At the height of the last ice age the Gulf of Thailand did not exist, this is due to the lower sea level, the location being part of the Chao Phraya river valley. The gulf covers about 320,000 km? and its mean depth is 45 m, and
the maximum depth only 80 m. The border of the gulf is defined by the line from Cape Bai Bung in southern Vietnam to the city Kota Baru on the Malayian coast. The strong water inflow from the rivers make the Gulf low in salinity (3.05-3.25%) and rich in sediments. At the greater depths in the middle of the Gulf there is water flowing into the gulf from the South China sea with a higher salinity (3.4%). The main rivers which emp-
ty into the gulf are the Chao Phraya (including its distributary Tha Chin River), Mae Klong and Bang Pakong Rivers at the Bay of Bangkok, and to a lesser degree the Tapi River into Bandon Bay in the southwest of the gulf. Due to the tropical warmth of the water the Gulf of Thailand has several famous diving resorts for tourists. Some of the most important tourist destinations in the Gulf of Thailand are the islands of Ko Samui and Ko Pha Ngan in Surat Thani province, Pattaya in Chonburi province, Cha-am in Phetchaburi Province, Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Ko Samet in Rayong Province,and Ko Chang in Trat Province Ko Tao is a center of the diving tourism.
Ice age islands While the global climate has experienced periods of both cooling and warming over millions of years, the climate of Southeast Asia has remained more or less the same as it is today. This is due to its location around the equator and, being surrounded by ocean providing plenty of moisture in the form or rain, the region was able to sustain consistent rainforests over a very long period of time. The rain is more evenly distributed throughout the year along the tropical zone, nurturing equatorial rainforests across South and Central America, Africa, Southeast Asia and Australia, which were all part of the same landmass during the last ice age. Then, as the glaciers melted and the sea level rose, many of these rainforests became cut off from each other and various species established themselves, developing along distinctive evolutionary paths in response to local ecosystems and creating a great diversity of forest eco-systems and unique flora and fauna. 22 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
November 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 23
Gulf of Thailand
Koh Samui
K
oh Samui island of Surat Thani Province or often, simply Samui as it is referred to by locals, is an island off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus in Thailand, close to the mainland Surat Thani town. It is Thailand’s second largest island, with an area of 228.7 km2 and a population of over 50,000 (2008). It is rich with natural resources, white sandy beaches, coral reefs and coconut trees. The central part of the island is an almost uninhabitable jungle mountain, Khao Pom, peak-
ing at 635 m. The various lowland areas are connected together by a single 51 km road, running mostly along the coast to encircle the bulk of the island. The old capital is Nathon, on the southwest coast of the island. It remains the major port for fishing and inter-island transportation. Nathon is the seat of the regional government, and the true commercial hub of the Samui locals. It has a charming pace, and is almost small enough to walk everywhere. The old Chinese shop houses along the middle street whisper of an exotic history. Each of Samui’s primary beaches is now also nominally considered as a small town, due to the number of hotels, restaurants and nightlife that have sprung up in recent year 24 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
Source: www.maps-thailand.com
Gulf of Thailand
Koh Phangan
P
ositioned harmoniously in the east coast on the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Phangan is the third largest island in Thailand and most of the island’s area of 168 square km is made up of mountains and tropical forest. The lowlands are abounding with coconut fields and sandy white beaches. Koh Phangan stretches 19 kilometres from north to south and 12 kilometres from west to east. Due to its proximity to the equator, Koh Phangan`s temperature remains fairly constant all year round and the conditions are tropical. Sunshine can be found even during the monsoon season. Koh Phangan Island is to the northeast of Surat Thani, about 20 kilometers from Koh Samui. Its area of 170 square kilometers, or 106,250 rai, is surrounded by several minor islands such as Koh Tao, Koh Tae Nok, Koh Tae Nai, and Koh Ma. Vast plains stretch out on the west coast of the island, while steep cliffs drip to the sea in the east. It is encircled by charming beaches, beautiful bays, and clear waters, with an abundance of coral reefs and marine life. The island is a district (Amphoe) of the Surat Thani Province in the Southern Region of Thailand. Koh Phangan enjoys a warm climate around the year, but the best time for a visit is from December to March or June to September. The island has 9.2 sq. km of coral reef, which is 100 to 1000 meters wide, with its widest part in the Wok Tum area.
Source: www.maps-thailand.com
50-70% of the reef is alive with 300-500 meters covered in seaweed. The most abundant fish is the Mackerel. Koh Phangan is full of undeveloped bays and coves and some of the remote beaches are only accessible by trekking through jungle paths or by
taking a boat. The Island attracts many popular activities one being snorkeling at many of the island beaches; one beach in particular is in the northeastern tip at Koh Maa. Other activities now include kite surfing, kayaking and trekking. The Roads in the northeast part of the island are very adventurous, they sill don�t have concrete, there is a dirt road to this part of the island, but we request that only experience bike riders should have a go at it.
Thongsala Koh Pha-Ngan’s main town, situated on the west coast. Thongsala has a new build big pier where all the ferries from mainland and Samui arrive. You will find here many restaurants, travel agencies, clothes shops and two fresh markets. This is the best place for shopping on Koh Phangan. Beside all the business and government offices, you can still enjoy the scenery of sunset, see the fishermen loading fishes and crabs from their boats, and taste home-made food and buy fresh seafood from the local market. Near the 7-Eleven are a lot of small food stalls, you can get good meal sometimes until 02.00 in the morning.
Ban Tai About 4 km. from Thongsala is a fishing village called Ban Tai. On the opposite side of the beach, mountains of coconuts are prepared for processing. You can see how people from the village peel and dry the coconuts for export. Next to the coconut place is a trail up to Wat 26 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
Take a journey across The Koh Phangan Situated on the western side of the island is Haad Yao Bayview Resort. The tranquil resort in backed by lush green forest and fronted by the glorious white sand beach of Haad Yao. Just a one minute walk from the soft sand and warm water, quest are in true paradise.
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Gulf of Thailand Things to do on Koh Phangan Snorkeling & diving
Chinese Temple
There are many great snorkel and dive spots on the island, especially on the Northwest coast. One of the best spots is around the little island of Koh Ma (‘Horse Island’), off Mae Haad beach at the Northwestern tip of Koh Phangan. There are several diving schools offering PADI courses around the island.
On the road between Thong Sala and Chaloklum the Chinese Temple is located. The temple is the result of the dream an american woman had in 1990 in which the (Chinese) Buddha spoke to her and asked her to build a firelight for the people.
Boat trips / Kayaking
Koh Phangan has large National Parks with a lot of waterfalls and deep jungle:
Boat trips around the island or to other islands can be arranged at most resorts and travel agencies. Kayaks can be rented at most resorts and at beaches.
Wakeboarding Wakeboarding is offered by Phangan Adventure in Chaloklum. They also offer many other activities like kayaking-, sailing- and big game fishing trips, sunset boat trips and mountain bike trekking.
Kiteboarding Kiteboarding or kitesurfing is offered by Cuttlebone Kiteboarding Center near Ban Thai (at Golden Light Resort).
Quad riding Just outside main town Thong Sala there is a quad racing track.
Thai boxing Although Lumphini Stadium in Bangkok is the place to be for the real Muay Thai match, Koh Phangan also has some small Muay Thai ‘stadiums’ in Thong Sala and Haad Rin. You can learn the art of Muay Thai yourself at the Jungle Gym in Haad Rin and Thong Sala.
Elephant Trekking Just outside Chaloklum you can enjoy an elephant ride through Koh Phangan’s jungle.
Massage & Meditation At most towns, resorts and beaches you can get a traditional Thai or oil massage. Koh Phangan also has a few retreat centers offering various courses in Thai massage, meditation, cleansing programs, Reiki and reflexology.
Wat Pho Herbal Sauna This traditional herbal steam sauna is run by monks at the Wat Pho temple in Ban Thai (on the road to Thong Nai Pan). The sauna uses traditional methods by heating natural herbs such as lemongrass and tamarind leaves on a big log fire. The herbs have many health and skin benefits. It is run on donations, so please don’t forget to make a donation after using the sauna. It should be remembered that ladies have to wear a sarong outside the sauna and men their shorts.
28 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
National parks & waterfalls
Phaeng Waterfall in the centre of the island and Than Sadet Waterfall National Park on the east side of the island. Best time to visit the waterfalls is during or after the wet season or right after rain, otherwise there is not that much water. Phaeng Waterfall National Park is located in the village of Madua Wan. The Park has a nice waterfall close to the entrance and some trekking routes to mountaintop viewpoints, including a long winding foot trail leading up to Koh Phangan’s highest mountain peak Khao Ra (630m). The trail is steep at some places and difficult to follow at times, so it is recommended to hire a guide at the entrance of the park. Than Sadet waterfall is the largest waterfall on the island, a 3 km run of rock pools and streams with a royal emblem, since it was visited by several Kings of Thailand, including the reigning monarch, H.M. King Bhumibol (Rama IX). There are inscriptions on boulders near the river bed made by each of the Kings. The park has several nice jungle trekking paths as well.
Kow Tham, the meditation place on top of Kow Haeng Hill, where people from all over the world come to do the 10 days Meditation Retreat every month. With shady, serene atmosphere, the place is ideal for serenity searchers. From here, you can get a sight of the island’s mountainous scenery. Wat Nai, the 400 years old stupas, located in Ban Nua (near Ban Tai Village) about 4 km from Thongsala Town on the road to Haad Rin. This old structure was built in Srivichaiya Architecture (9-13th century). From Wat Nai, a small dirt road will lead you to join the road to Thong Nai Pan Beach. At the transaction stands Phangan Biggest Tree, a giant Rubber Tree with 14 meters around.
Haad Rin Had Rin is Phangan’s nightlife central. A 24 hour non-stop party place. Bungalows and guesthouses are quite expensive in comparison with other places on the island, and even on a non-Full Moon night, you’re likely to be kept up until 2am by the powerful sound systems of all the bars and clubs. Haad Rin is located on both sides of a narrow peninsular of land that juts out to sea with beaches on both sides. Haad Rin West on the sunset side is the quieter beach of the two, but shallow corals at the beach makes swimming difficult there except at high tide. The palm-lined, boulder-strewn beach here can be extremely beautiful , especially whilst viewing a famous Koh Phangan sunset. Here is also where the Big Buddha ferry docks. Haad Rin East on the sunrise side has a beautiful long sandy beach with many restaurants and bars, mostly catering to the backpacker and party scene. As the Full Moon approaches Haad Rin get’s usually really busy. Watch the beach change into a fire-twirling open air party play ground.
Haad Yao Located on the west coast, Haad Yao is one of the nicest beaches of Koh Phangan. It is said to be one of the prettiest beaches on Koh Phangan with its stretching white sand and good drop off for swimming. There is good coral off the rocks at both ends of the beach. One of
Nai Pan Beach there’s a turn-off heading east at Thong Nang Village. This trail follows a river along which you’ll see a series of waterfalls collectively known as Than Sadet Waterfall. The year-round waterfall of Thaan Sadet cascades into the ocean at Haad Sadet beach. From the twin beaches here you can follow a trail inland along the waterfall to a series of boulders marking the initials of Kings Rama V,VII & IX of Thailand, who have all visited the falls over the last century. To get here by taxi you must take the turn off on the road between Thong Sala and Had Rin. Or you could charter a boat there from wherever you may be on the east coast. And yes, you could also rent a motorbike and drive by yourself ... but careful ... this is one of the most dangerous roads on the island.
Mae Haad and Koh Maa
Koh Phangan’s dive operations is situated on this beach. There are many more nearly deserted coves and bays to discover on Koh Phangan, some housing the odd beach hut and restaurant to provide refreshment.
Thansadet waterfalls Located in the east of Koh Phangan. About halfway up the road from Ban Tai Village to Thong
Mae Haad situated in the north-west of Koh Phangan, is a nice fishermen village. From here you can walk from the beach to the small island Koh Maa (thai for ‘Horse island’) since Koh Maa is joined to Mae Haad by a sand bar. Even at high tide the water is low enough to walk. At the west side of this small island you find a good place for snorkeling. There is also a small basic bungalow resort and restaurant here. The months between Dec and Mar are the best times to visit as the rest of the year the tides are to low for swimming. Mae Haad provides a long stretch of beach with views of sunsets over Koh Maa. The months between Dec and Mar are
the best times to visit as the rest of the year the tides are to low for swimming.
Chaloklam Situated in the north of the island, it is a very quiet fishermen village where you will find a very genuine atmosphere. There are several family-run groceries, restaurants, a couple of diving schools and even a ‘7-Eleven’ (or ‘seven’ in thai) 24hr. supermarket. A local fishing community lives and works around this large bay and it is a great place to buy or eat fresh seafood. Squid can be seen drying on nets in the sun. When the weather is fine with some 80-100 boats mooring in the bay. This place is a good start point to explore the northern part of the island.
Thai style and modern design, the best place for your choice. All guesthouses were set in pleasant atmosphere to fulfill your excellent holidays.
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Gulf of Thailand
Prachuap Khiri Khan
P
rachuap Khiri Khan is the province separating the Gulf of Thailand from Burma. At its narrowest, Prachuap Khiri Khan is 13 kilometers wide from the Gulf of Thailand on the east to Burma on the west. This long, narrow province features some spectacular coastline along the Gulf of Thailand. In the North is Hua Hin, the country’s oldest resort town, but further south is Pranburi, Kuiburi and likely more to follow. Most of the inhabitants of Kuiburi and the surrounding area still earn their livelihoods as farmers, plantation owners and fisher folk. Bordering Kuiburi National Park - home to the largest herd of wild elephants in Thailand - ecologically it is one of the more pristine areas found along the Gulf coast between Cha-am to the north and Chumphon to the south. Neighboring districts are Sam Roi Yot to the north and Muang Prachuapkhirikhan to the south. To the west is the Tanintharyi Division of Myanmar, and to the east the Gulf of Thailand. Khlong Kui, a large freshwater canal, runs through the district. Bonok Beach approximately 10 kilometers south the town of Kuiburi itself is where you find Vartika Resovilla, one of the next generation of environmentally aware tourist resorts. Pygmy Bryde’s Whales and dolphins live in onshore waters, adding a special beauty to the surroundings and a bearing witness to the cleanliness of the sea here. With only 23 villas and rooms, the resort
30 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
maintains an intimate atmosphere enhanced by the taste of the cultured, well-traveled owner. Prachuap Khiri Khan is an attractive alternative destination for visitors who want to avoid overcrowded resorts, while it is easily accessible from Bangkok. There are plenty of peaceful lesser-known attractions, particularly as you venture away from the main town. It is also a popular destination among Thais so the province can perhaps give travelers a greater insight into the “real” Thailand. The provincial capital of Prachuap Khiri Khan is a fishing port with a superb location beside beautiful curving bays and amongst steep mountain outcrops.
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VARTIKA offers two eccentric zones specially designed for you to catch a glimpse of international touch. Get an excitement of staying in every corner of the world without leaving the resort in our multinational villas. Each is uniquely designed and decorated to make you wonder, without sacrifce of any comfort. The villas consist of design and décor from countries such as France, China, Japan, and much much more…. At VARTIKA, you will feel like a home away from home. At our Executive Ocean View area, you will find fusion of designs to accommodate your needs. Rooms such as Executive, Junior, and Honeymoon Suites are perfect for you to enjoy astonishing ocean view right out from your own window and balcony. For those who love free space, a 180 degree panorama sea-view “PENTHOUSE” is a must. Enjoy sunrise from the ocean right from your bed. In addition to astonishing panorama view, open-air Jacuzzi will make you breathless at the beauty of blue sky during the day and dazzling stars at night when you soak into a tub especially designed for you with bath salts - compliment from our own Vartika Spa. For pet lovers, VARTIKA is pet welcome resort which means your pet can stay with you in our villa area. All villas and executive beach area have wheel chair access specially designed for people who travel with wheel chair as well. During your stay, get indulged and reward yourself at Vartika Spa. Find the essence of Moroccan combined with products carefully chosen and made from natural products from around KuiBuri. Enjoy healthy cuisine at The Traveller’s Restaurant by the beach where all ingredients are personally hand picked fresh daily from the local produce and fisherman piers to create perfect Thai and international dishes for you.
ACTIVITIES ON SITE Morning Exercise Cooking class Spa workshop Snorkeling Cycling Photo Viewer Beach Ball Fishing Golf Practice Yoga Boat Trip Trekking Kid Program (Dall Painting, Sea Shell Frame, Batik Painting, Jelly Candle)
"Experience a New World with Every Visit" Only 40 minutes south of Hua Hin.
Gulf of Thailand
Koh Chang
K
oh Chang, Trat’s largest island, is the second largest in Thailand, behind Phuket. Visitors to Koh Chang will, however,. expect a much more laid back and relaxing atmosphere. White Sand Beach (Had Sai Khao) is the busiest area of Koh Chang with numerous accommodations, commercial establishments and restaurants. The beach is a hub of many activities, such as taking a stroll while watching the sunset and various sports activities. It is also the only beach on Koh Chang with a bit of night life. The weather is cool and pleasant with plenty of sunshine between November and February, and average temperatures hover around 34 C during the months of March and April. Visitors should take extra precaution when traversing its waters during the southwestern monsoon which is from mid-May to October. Koh Chang is part of the greater Marine National Park that included 52 other islands in its vicinity. The National Park is home to 29 species of mammals, 74 species of birds, 42 species of reptiles and amphibians, and a rich marine life. The vegetation is mainly dipterocarps, gum, trees, conifer, evergreen, fishtail, palms, rattan palms, fern, and mangroves Rainy season: May to October Dry season: November to February Summer: March to April
Koh Kood
K
oh Kood is the farthest island from the mainland. It is also the easternmost island of Thailand bordering Cambodia. With an area of 105 sq km, Koh Kood is the second largest island of the Koh Chang Marine National Park and the fourth largest in Thailand, after Koh Samui. It is 25 km long and 12 km wide. It is supported by essential infrastructure, which includes a hospital, schools, police station, electricity (mainly for state-run facilities), water and telephone system. Fuel and solar energy are the main sources of electricity here. Most resorts generate their own electricity. The resorts tend to cater to the higher priced market, offering tour packages which usually include boat transfers for added convenience. About 70% of Koh Kood is covered by tropical rainforest. Development is scarce and mostly in coastal areas. Koh Kood boasts of scenic beauty, crystal clear water, pristine beaches, breathtaking waterfalls and a very pure natural environment. The west coast is lined with a series of pristine beaches, sparkling clear sea, captivating views and a great place to catch the magnificent sunset. Most of the best known beaches are along the bays. The best time for a visit to Koh Kood is between beginning of November and the end of February. At this time it is relatively cool, dry and mostly sunny. 32 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
Alexandra and Natalie Alexandra and Natalie Stybert are two busy half Danish - half Thai sisters. Natalie - who used to be a young child singer - is about to graduate in multimedia business, and Alexandra is doing PR for “all the gorgeous lady boys” in the Alcazar show in Pattaya.
N
atalie and Alexandra have been living in and out of the limelight ever since their parents moved to Thailand, where their Dad works at UFIS Airport Solution. Natalie was quite well known as a young singer when she was 10 year old and her sister also appeared in her music videos. “My family encouraged me to express my talent, and I loved to dance and sing at that time,” Natalie remembers. “If you ask me to dance like that again, I cant do it anymore - but some Thai people still remember me,“ she smiles. “I quit because I had to focus on my school.”
By Pimjai Chaimongkol
34 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
Our family treats us in Thai style but they let us make our own decisions and we can share every problem with them. Alexandra and the Lady Boys Alexandra was born in Denmark and when the family moved to Thailand she was already seven years old. She graduated from faculty of Arts, Thammasat University (International Program) and now enjoys her interesting work in the Public Relations department of the famous Alcazar Show in Pattaya.
Alexandra “It is very challenging job to work with all gorgeous lady boys,” she laughs. “I have been here almost half a year and I am OK now, but at first I had quite a hard time adapting myself to live here since I have lived in Bangkok almost all of my life.”
Stybert We have kept our nationalities as Danish citizens because I gives us the most benefit. However, I grew up in Thailand so here is my home. Natalie has a plan Natalie was born in German and was two years old when the family moved to Thailand. Her early career as a singer is well behind her and now, she has other plans for her future. In a few months, she will graduate in Communication Arts from Rangsit University with a major in Multimedia. “I will graduate in November.
Thai Thani Pool Villa Resort PATTAYA THAILAND
Natalie Then my plan is to travel in United States. After that I have to stay in Denmark for some time in order to get Danish permanently visa. I may study the master degree there. Alexandra and I have talked about maybe going there together and find something to do there.”
Alcazar Show in Pattaya
We are Thai! Both of them proudly identify themselves as Thai people since they grew up in Thailand. Although their father is moving around the world, Thailand is their home. “We have kept our nationalities as Danish citizens because I gives us the most benefit. However, I grew up in Thailand so here is my home,” Natalie says.
Alexandra agrees. “Our family treats us in Thai style but they let us make our own decisions and we can share every problem with them,” Alexandra says. “Right now, my father is working in UAE but we always communicate via skype or over the phone. We have always been very close to each other.”
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Finding Your Dream Home the Easy Way Swedish born Johannes Bergstrom brings a professional, yet friendly face to the Bangkok condo scene. By Kirsty Turner Photos by Toby Williams
J
ohannes Bergstrom, who hails from Halmstad in Sweden, is revolutionising the Bangkok property market with his in novative business Bangkok Condo Finder. The company, which was established just over a year ago, is a cost-free apartment locating service for people who want to buy and rent property in Bangkok. The company owns revenue from landlords rather than home hunters, and strives to provide a valuable service for people who wants to start a new life in the capital of Thailand. Bangkok Condo Finder aims to make the entire process of settling into Bangkok, from finding a dream home to hiring a maid and exploring the area, as smooth as possible. “When I first came to Bangkok and was looking for a condo myself, I had a terrible experience,” Johannes explains. “I wanted to set up my own company to improve the experience for other people and provide a much-needed service.” In order to fulfil his goals Johannes, who trained and worked as both an actor and a lawyer in Sweden, took a professionally run web design course in Bangkok. The skills that Johannes earned 36 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
Above: One of the bedrooms offered by Bangkokcondofinder.com - this one is from Life@Sathorn. Left: Johannes Bergstrom’s website has made it easy to find an apartment in Bangkok even before moving here - or find a better one without running around like crazy.
in Bangkok have proven to be priceless. They enabled him to set up his own website, which is extremely professional in appearance while easy to use at the same time.
Watch the video Bangkokcondofinder.com has quickly risen to become a leading property website, as it features integrated videos of all the company’s listings. The great thing with the video feature is that it makes it easy for property seekers to get the full picture of the property from anywhere in the world. Thanks to this innovative feature, people can pick out their dream home before making the move to Bangkok. The company’s slogan is: One Click and You’re Home, and thanks to Johannes and his dedicated team things really can be that simple. Bangkok Condo Finder work hard to ensure that property hunters receive a quick response to their inquiries, something he says is rare among companies in Bangkok. Someone from the team them meets with the potential client to establish their needs and puts together a presentation of suitable condos for them to choose from. The great thing about Bangkok Condo Finder is that someone is
available at all times to make sure that things run smoothly. Their new site even provides an interactive map of Bangkok, complete with local amenities to make people feel right at home before they even move. Bangkok Condo Finder currently has around 400 properties on their books and are constantly seeking more. “The number of properties may be less than other local companies, but the process of adding properties is slower for us because we research each condo carefully and add videos to our site before we present them,” Johannes explains Bangkok Condo Finder offer a wide range of different types of properties, from swanky modern condos complete with a whole host of luxurious conveniences, to older and more traditional Thai-style homes.
Johannes’ advice to anyone who is looking to join the Bangkok property market is simple: “People who want to buy a condo to rent out in the future should be looking at a one or two bedroom studio apartment situated close to transportation networks. Modern condos are much more desirable than older ones, and they need to be in very good condition.” Facilities are also essential. “Most people won’t even consider a condo unless it has a swimming pool and a gym.”
Life@Sathorn The condo where ScandAsia met with Joahnnes certainly fitted the bill. Located in the trendy Sathorn district, opposite the iconic Robot Building, Life@Sathorn features stylishly furnished apartments, a swimming pool and a fully fitted gym, where residents can gaze out at the Bangkok skyline while working out. Like many people who choose to live and work in Bangkok, Johannes confesses that he has fallen in love with this colourful city, where organised chaos reigns supreme. “Bangkok is a great place to live, because it has so many levels. Walking through the city feels like being in a Marvel Comics movie. You can see every side of life here, existing side by side. And in Bangkok you never know what to expect, it’s a fascinating place.” If you’ve been bitten by the Bangkok bug and want to become part of the condo scene, check out Bangkok Condo Finder’s website at www.bangkokcondofinder.com, email info@bangkokcondofinder. com or call the company directly on (+66) 02 622 3272
JIM International We strive on excellent quality, efficient service, superb workmanship and great value! With a wide range of the latest styles, from the classics to the ultra modern; and a wide choice of excellent fabrics, we are a one-stop shop for custom tailored men, women’s and children’s wear for all occasions.
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352/322, Moo 12, Pratamnak Soi 4, Nongprue, (Opposite New Nordic) Banglamung, Chonburi Hotline +6681-983-8629 +6683-120-4107 E-Mail Designersstyle@yahoo.com Tailorthailand@yahoo.com
www.tailorsthailand.com November 2011 • ScandAsia.Thailand 37
Solar Powered Cooling Solar Powered Attic Fans can reduce your cooling costs, lower your utility bills, and prevent your roof structure from deteriorating. By Gregers Moller
T
he attic is the space right under your roof which can quickly become an overhead furnace if you do not provide it with effective ventilation or cooling system. The sun’s heat will raise the temperature and this will significantly increase the temperature in your home underneath. The best solution to this is a solar-powered fan in your attic. This is especially true if your home is not fully insulated to begin with or if you want to prevent heat buildup in
your home. Solar attic fans provide a more cost efficient alternative to conventional attic fans. This type of fan has been proven effective in preventing hot air from being trapped in the attic. With solar powered attic fans, you do not have to worry about your electricity bills. Harnessing the sun’s energy will allow you to enjoy the functionality of conventional fans without causing your utility costs to go overboard. When you use solar attic fans, your energy cost savings do not
38 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
stop in the attic. Rather, the total air conditioning requirements for your entire home will go down as a result of having a cooler attic. Your air conditioners will not be working too hard and you can even afford to turn them off for a few hours during the day without significantly raising the temperature in the lower areas of your home. When the temperature climbs above 24C and you decide to use air conditioning, you can shut the windows and crank up the air knowing that the attic fan will save up to
30% on cooling costs by getting rid of trapped super hot air that tends to collect in attics and cause heat to back up into the home. The solar attic fan’s solar panel converts sunlight into usable renewable energy. The sun supplies power to the attic fan’s motor which enables the fan blades to spin and remove moisture and heat from your attic. Solar attic fans are simple to install and require no electricity to operate.
Should This Wine Be Served Warm or Cold? By Hrayr Berberoglu *)
M
ost people drink wines either too cold or too warm, both of which reduces maximum en-
joyment. There is no need to rush out the door to buy a wine thermometer. Most palates are sensitive enough to detect significant temperature variations The temperature of a wine when served changes profoundly the aromatics of the wine and the taste. Different categories of wines must be served at varying temperatures for maximum enjoyment. The higher the temperature, the more easily the volatile flavour components evaporate from the surface of the wine. Therefore, to maximize the impact of the aroma or bouquet of a wine, it is sensible to serve a young red wine at 16 – 18 C. At 20 C, alcohol starts to volatilize, thus overwhelming the delicate fruit and/ or bouquet. Room temperature in Europe is generally 16 - 18 C, and when the back label of a European red wine calls for room temperature this is the temperature meant. In most homes in South East Asia, room temperature well exceeds 20 C or, if air conditioned, the temperature may well be below 18C. At lower temperatures fewer volatile taste components (flavones)
evaporate, thus dry or sweet white wines should be served cool, but never ice cold. For fine dry white wines 10 – 12 C is recommended, and for sweet wines you can go as low as 7 – 8C.
The sweeter the wine, the cooler it should be served, but never 0 C. If ever you want to serve a very poorly made wine, then ice it! This way no one will be able to smell or taste how bad it is! In many restau-
rants, so-called house wines served by the glass are always extremely cold! Now you know why! Dry sparkling wines should be served at 6 – 8C and sweet at 5 – 6C, to appreciate their aromatic components and effervescence at their best. A Beaujolais nouveau requires cool temperatures, i.e. 13 – 14C. Other “nouveau style“ red wines produced using the technique called “carbonic maceration“, should also be served cool. Wine warms up in the glass. Serve it slightly cooler than the required temperature. It is easier to warm up than cool. If a wine is too cold or too warm, never subject it to violent temperature changes like plunging the bottle into hot water or placing it in the freezer. The best method for cool a wine is in a wine bucket ¾ filled with ice cubes and water. Add a few tablespoons of salt to make brine. Place the bottle in the bucket and turn it a few times. Within 1520 minutes, the temperature will have reached 8 – 10 C, pending the size of the bottle and its thickness. For red wines, remove the bottle from the cellar (usually 10 – 11 C) and carry it to the dining room 30 minutes before you intend to serve it. If the wine is still too cold, it will warm up quickly once poured, or you can gently warm it in your palms. For vintage port wines 18C is an excellent temperature, and for dry vermouths, 6 – 8 C is recommended. You can test how temperature changes both taste and smell by conducting a few simple exercises during informal gatherings. Use two bottles of the same wine at temperatures with 10 C difference and ask people to taste both, one after the other blind! You will be surprised at the result.
*) Hrayr Berberoglu is a Professor Emeritus of Hospitality and Tourism Management specializing in Food and Beverage. 40 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
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Medium
Rød Grød Med Fløde
I
n Denmark “Rød Grød med Fløde” describes a classic summer dish made of cooked red berries served with ice-cold cream or milk. It can be made with several different types of berries or simply just with a single berry. Some of the more popular berries used include raspberries, strawberries, red currant, black berries and rhubarb (although not a berry). Rød Grød is a delicious and refreshing summer dessert which can be served either warm or cold and it is really quick and easy to make. Ingredients: 2 rhubarb 1 lb strawberries 6 oz raspberries 1 cup water 1/2 cup sugar 3 tbsp cornstarch cold water Cold cream or milk for serving
Evil
Directions: Place rhubarb, strawberries and raspberries in a cooking pot, add water and sugar. Simmer covered over medium-low heat for 15 minutes. Pour cooked fruit into a sieve and press fruit through the sieve using the backside of a large spoon until only seeds remain. Make sure to scrape the thick fruit pulp from the underside of the sieve, that’s the good stuff. Stir together cornstarch and a small amount of cold water to make a slurry. Return the fruit pulp/juice to the cooking pot and bring back to a simmer. Add cornstarch slurry in small increments to the fruit while stirring, simmer. Pour fruit into small serving glasses or into a serving bowl. Place in refrigerator to cool completely. When ready to serve, pour a small amount of cold cream or milk over fruit and enjoy.
Are you done?
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hen you have completed the above puzzles, please send your solution by fax to +66 2 943 7169 or scan and email to puzzles@ scandasia.com. We will make a lucky draw among the correct answers. Five lucky winners will receive a ScandAsia polo shirt. Name:
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Deadline for submitting your solution is 15 December 2011 42 ScandAsia.Thailand • November 2011
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