EE FR
VOLUME 6, ISSUE NO. 5
Over the Border: Penang
APRIL 2012
Page 4
You are cordially invited to join us to celebrate our 5th anniversary of Bangkok Trader. We’re having our annual blowout at Zanzibar at Sukhumvit Soi 11 on Friday, November 25th, from 6:30-9pm, with lots of food and drink, a DJ, dancers, and all of you there! For more details, go to http://goo.gl/UBsgo or http://goo.gl/EnNbR
BANGKOK TRADER Volume 6, Issue No. 5 APRIL 2012
Published by Siam Gazette Co., Ltd. Publisher and Managing Director: Kaewta Verstein kaewta@thebangkoktrader.com Executive Assistant to the Managing Director: Pla Jaiyen Tel. 02 655 0941 pla@thebangkoktrader.com Sales & Marketing: Alan S. Verstein Tel. 081 761 9302 alan@thebangkoktrader.com Ad Sales (Thai) and Ad Traffic: Joke Chaymanee Tel. 084 147 5550 thailandmagazine@gmail.com Creative Director: Reid Nixon reid@thebangkoktrader.com Delivery: Cha Lormnak
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Saranjai Mansion, 23 Fl., Unit 17/490 17 Sukhumvit Soi 6, Klongtoey, Klongtoey Nua, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Tel. 02 655 0940 • Fax 02 655 0941 Cover photo of Penang provided by Dave Stamboulis, who can be contacted at pedallerdave@hotmail.com
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4 - APRIL 2012
BANGKOK TRADER
Over the Border
Penang and hawker heaven By Dave Stamboulis
Penang used to be known amongst expats for its Thai consulate, which in the good ol’ days was willing to give visas even if one walked in the door wearing prison stripes. The good ol’ days finished and other spots became the places to go, but visas aside, Penang remains one of the most charming places in the region to spend a long weekend, and it is blessed with some of the most outstanding food to be found in Asia. The island of Penang, dubbed by foreign traders as the Pearl of the Orient, has a most colorful history. In the late 1700s, it was leased to the British captain Francis Light (a trader working for the East India Company in Madras) in exchange for protection against invading Burmese and Siamese armies. It later became a penal colony for Andaman island convicts, and then became a fundraising headquarters for Sun Yat Sen, the Chinese nationalist. The island was bombed by the Germans in WWI and then taken over by the Japanese in WWII, before being returned to the British and then, finally, Malaysia in 1957. In 2008, Penang received UNESCO World Heritage classification status. Architecturally, Penang’s quaint capital Georgetown is possibly the nicest city in all of Asia, with well-preserved examples of period buildings to be found throughout its charming lanes and lorungs, as the small alleyways are called. There are remnants of British colonialism everywhere, such as the Eastern and Oriental Hotel or St George’s Church. There are also lavish Chinese clan homes, pre-war shophouses, and fantastic mansions, such as the ornate Cheong Fatt Tze merchant house, with its famed colorful traditional rickshaws that guard its gates.
As with its architecture, Penang boasts an amazingly cosmopolitan array of people. While the island itself is predominantly Malay, central Georgetown is home to mostly Chinese, and a walk through Chinatown may have you thinking you are somewhere closer to Shanghai or Beijing. Just a five-minute stroll from Chinatown and one is in Little India, where saris rule and the smell of masala dosas and pungent spices waft through the air, home to some 150,000 Indians. Additionally, there are 80,000-odd migrant workers from the surrounding Southeast Asian countries, plus a large number of Westerners who have made the island home. Perhaps the best reason to visit Penang, though, is for its food. There is a joke amongst Malaysians that says if one comes to live in Penang, one’s weight will automatically increase by several kilograms each year. This is probably true, as Penangites seem to be eating 24 hours a day. The abundant street stalls known as ‘hawker food’ provide some of the most varied and tasty eats in Malaysia, and everyone has their favorite. Popular stalls include those selling asam laksa, which are thick rice noodles cooked in a sour and spicy soup broth laced with tamarind paste. Also famous are the Hokkien Mee rice noodles that are cooked in a stock made of dried prawns, shrimp paste, and lard, and then served with vegetables and sambal paste. Some of the hawker stalls in Penang have been operating for 60-70 years serving the same thing, and many are wildly popular, even quite famous. The
BANGKOK TRADER
APRIL 2012 - 5
cendol (pronounced ‘chendul’) vendor on Penang Road in Chinatown sets up every afternoon around 1pm, and within twenty minutes has a line halfway down the block. Cendol is a sweet dessert composed of green starch noodles, coconut milk, red beans, and shaved ice, and served in Penang along with brown sugar. Celebrities from Singapore and Hong Kong have frequented this spot, and their photos, along with a big ‘thumbs up’ sign, adorn the front of the stall. What is nice with the food vendors in Penang is that they often set up shop next to a coffee house. If it is too hot to eat outside, diners can choose to sit in the coffee shop, which each hawker will bring their individual dish into. The cafés don’t care about their space being used as a restaurant, because they make money from the various teas, coffees, and juices that everyone orders along with their meal. If you have the right paperwork, the Thai consulate in Penang is still open for business. But even if you don’t, you will come home well sated and most likely will be planning your next visit to this charming island. Travel Tips: Penang can be reached by daily flights on AirAsia and other carriers. To get there even more cheaply, take a domestic flight to Hat Yai (thereby avoiding all the international departure fees and taxes) and then hop on a minibus, which go 4 times a day and get to Penang in 3.5 hours. If you book in advance, fantastic deals can be had at the Tune Hotels’ downtown Penang branch (www.tunehotels.com). If you need a primer on hawker food before going, this blog provides a lot of details: http://makanpenang.blogspot.com Dave Stamboulis is a freelance photographer and travel writer based in Bangkok. He is the author of Odysseus’ Last Stand, which received the Silver Medal Book of the Year award from the Society of American Travel Writers. He can be contacted at pedallerdave@hotmail.com.
6 - APRIL 2012
BANGKOK TRADER
A Time to Reflect By James Fortzman
Before I decided to come to Thailand, a friend of mine gave me only two pieces of advice: 1. Smile all the time. 2. Beware of bargirls. I took this advice very seriously, and it has definitely kept me in good stead. I’ve been in Thailand for just over two years, and I still heed this advice religiously. If, like me, you’ve been in Thailand for longer than a few weeks, you will have no doubt experienced many little strange and interesting Thai idiosyncrasies that we have to adapt to on a daily basis; things, such as the complete disregard for punctuality, taking your shoes off, saving face in conflict, and a myriad of others. They have become somewhat normal to me now, and I’ve started to focus more on the big picture of my life in Thailand. One interesting thing is that, even after two years here, I still feel like I’m on holiday. I may have work, a semi-permanent place to stay, and my daily routines, but I still don’t feel like I actually live here. After speaking to friends about this, it seems many share the same sentiment. We’re all living out of a suitcase and not planning too much for the long-term. This is both good and bad: It forces one to live in the moment, but on the other hand you never feel rooted or settled. Many expats find themselves in this ‘halfway house’ type of feeling while living here. They all miss their friends and family back home, but somehow the charm of the Thai people, the amazing food, great weather, and laid-back atmosphere keep them here.
There is also an underlying loneliness that many find themselves experiencing from time to time. While there are many other expats from all over the world with whom to socialize and form all kinds of relationships (in Bangkok especially), they all inevitably end at some point. Whether it’s weeks or months later, great new friends go back home ‘to the real world.’ Personally, I must have gone through about five or more different social circles during my time here. Most foreigners that move to Thailand go through tough times on occasion. Whether it’s a relationship, being homesick, culture shock, or feeling lost, there are definitely a few pitfalls for new arrivals. However, having a group of good foreigner friends really helps, allowing you to trade stories, problems, and tips to soften the blow. I think it’s safe to say that my honeymoon period of living in Bangkok is well and truly over. That’s not say I’m negative or want to go home, but the initial newness and thrill of the culture, people, food, and nightlife has worn off. I’m now left with a realistic, yet still very positive view of Bangkok and Thailand. It has become a country that I am proud to call my second home. I’m definitely not jaded either. Many things still amaze me on a daily basis, such as Thai people’s depth of honesty and sweetness. In fact, the whole Thai concept of ‘sanuk’ is something I still battle with. On the one hand, I admire it deeply and wish the whole world could adopt it as a way of life overnight. On the other hand, I also realize how impossibly unfeasible that is. One of the main reasons why Thailand makes this concept possible boils down to a huge difference in financial values and social structure. In the West, we are infinitely
8 - APRIL 2012
busy trying to save enough money to retire one day when we are older. The Thais don’t have this same immense pressure. Like many more traditional societies, the Thais use the natural family structure to do the same thing… but with a whole lot less stress. The children go to work and give a portion of their salary to their parent, and when they have kids, the cycle continues. Sure, you most likely won’t become a millionaire this way, but it also won’t have you waste the best years of your life in a cubicle trying to ‘make it big’ just so you can have a decent standard of living when you’re too old to enjoy it anyway. This is really intelligent and something our dissolved Western social and family structures simply cannot support anymore. It’s a sad and sobering fact. Nowhere does this ‘sanuk’ way of life manifest itself more clearly than in the famous Thai smile – something I regret to say, I have recently started taking for granted. It seems the whole of Thai social culture has been designed from top-to-bottom to be as pleasant as possible for everyone. The difference it makes to be surrounded by smiling faces all day cannot be underestimated, and it’s definitely one of the main reasons why I’ve stayed here for so long. I remember landing at Suvarnabhumi for the first time, being bombarded by warm
BANGKOK TRADER
smiles and not being able to comprehend it at all – it was a little overwhelming. I quickly learned that when someone smiles at you, the immediate reflex is to want to reciprocate. It must be a natural and deep emotional response mechanism that we are born with, something that us Westerners have done a great job of stunting from an early age with our irrational fear of strangers that we brainwash kids with. Being surrounded by smiles all day sure beats living among seemingly miserable people who are constantly grimacing to make a point of some kind. I was also definitely guilty of this back home, and I fail to remember what the point of looking miserable was, maybe there wasn’t one. Of course I’m not naïve enough to think that all Thai people are happy, but the difference it makes when a whole society smiles at one another out of habit is something that is hard to deny. Overall, I have to say that I am still very much in awe of Thai culture, in general, and I think the West could learn a lot from the Land of Smiles. James Fortzman is a traveller, writer, musician, serial life experimenter, and watcher of YouTube. Contact him at wildingp@gmail.com.
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BANGKOK TRADER
Spiking in the Sand By Voicu Mihnea Simandan
In the past few months, more and more people living in Thailand (especially Thais) have rekindled their pride in the Thai volleyball national team. The media exposure the women’s team has received during and after a few major regional and international events is equivalent to the effort they had put into winning the gold medal at the 2011 Southeast Asian Games. On top of that, they achieved a well-deserved fourth place at the 2011 Asian Championships and a sixth place at the World Grand Prix. The men’s team has done equally well, bringing home the gold at the 2011 SEA Games, but with a modest tenth place at the 2011 Asian Championships. But what if you’re living and working in Thailand and fancy a game of volleyball? How about joining the wonderful people at the Bangkok Beach Volleyball Social Group who play regularly both in the capital and in Pattaya. According to Don Donchuanchom, a 45-year-old Thai-American volleyball lover, “There’s nothing better than to be on a beach and play some ball.” Don is one of the pillars of the Bangkok Beach Volleyball Social Group, and although he’s not a permanent resident of Thailand, he brings along 25 years of experience. Don had the idea of starting this group from his experience organizing the Marina Park Volleyball group in the San Francisco Bay area, but since he’s started to come regularly to Thailand since 1992, he found it ‘convenient’ to set up a similar group on the other side of the world. Using the MeetUp.com online platform, Don has gathered together over one hundred members who have an interest in beach volleyball. Although they do not participate in all the games organized, as most of them have both a job and a family they have to give priority to, the Bangkok Beach Volleyball Social Group is quite an active one. And since Bangkok is such a cosmopolitan city, it is not surprising that apart from Thais, there are also
Malaysian, Chinese, Filipino, Taiwanese, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Australian, Indian, British, German, Russian, Ukrainian, Italian, Dutch, Japanese, Korean, Peruvian, Irish, Canadian, American, plus many more nationalities in their group. Don is the main organizer of the group, being the person who started the group and who pays the fees to MeetUp.com to host the group’s activity. He is in charge of most of the game planning and postings when the games are held in Bangkok. An assistant organizer holds inventory to most of the volleyball equipment. All of the volleyball net systems, boundary lines, tournament quality beach game balls, and other volleyball equipment have already been purchased by Don. Also, a team of event organizers post specific game details of when to play and at what venue. Bearing in mind that the members’ ages vary from 22 to 60+ and that they are of different abilities when it comes to beach volleyball, the levels of play range from beginners who need instruction and coaching to advanced beach doubles players. “The level of play is very wide since many of the players here come from different types of volleyball backgrounds. Many played only indoor sixes before coming here. Other prefer grass quads to indoor or sand. Still others play beach, but mainly play 4s or 6s and not 2s,” explains Don. Having said this, you can still play at a higher level on your preferred surface and player configuration, but play at a lower level when you move to a surface or configuration that you are not use to. Regarding the formats of play, the Bangkok Beach Volleyball Social Group currently plays beach/sand doubles, triples, and quads. When they have many players, they play 5s and 6s on the sand. Speaking of the group’s future plans, Don says, “We are hoping to find a park where
BANGKOK TRADER
APRIL 2012 - 11 we can set up grass nets. We are also looking to play indoor.” When it rains, they still play sand or beach… as long as there is no lightning! Although they do not play against other teams or provinces and are not part of any volleyball organization or league, the beauty of it all is that you can join the group anytime by yourself or with some friends and just play. Unless the weather (or the floods) don’t allow it, the Bangkok Beach Volleyball Social Group plays at the Arsenal Soccer School in Bangkok, usually on a Saturday. They’ve also just started adding a one-weekday game. When they feel like getting out of town, they also play on Jomtien Beach in Pattaya. Here, the players play with and compete against local Thais and foreign tourist players. “In the future, the idea is to play at other beaches and islands in Thailand too,” said Don. Like all social groups the players often like to go out to eat and get some drinks after the games. When in Jomtien Beach, some of the players go clubbing after the games. To join the group, sign up with MeetUp (www.meetup.com/BKK-Beach-Volleyball) – it’s free of charge – or email Don at md208@yahoo.com if you require more details. The costs involved depend on the number of players attending each game. At Arsenal Soccer School, the hourly fee for renting the sand court is 1,080 baht. Of course, at Jomtien Beach, it is free to play but then you have to cover the costs of transportation and accommodation by yourself. In case they’ll be able to find parks to set up grass nets, the play there should also be free. Basically, there is not much cost to play, and according to the organizers, there will never be a fee to join the group or to pay for the equipment! Arsenal Soccer School (www.arsenalthai.com) is located on Sukhumvit Road 71 (Soi Pridi Banomyong 21) with the nearest BTS station being Prakanong (between Ekkamai and On Nut). Visit their website for a detailed map. Voicu Mihnea Simandan has been a member of the Bangkok Writers’ Guild since 2008. He can be contacted via his website at www.simandan.com.
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USA VISA: We specialize in the United States Visa for Thai Nationals. Fiancee (K-1), Marriage (K-3, CR-1 or IR-1), Tourist or Student. Web site: www.americavisa4thai.com Office just of Phloenchit BTS station within two minute walk. American owned and operated. All English speaking staff. 02-651-4364. We also do visa’s for Australia and NZ. (K) VIDEO IS THE FUTURE of the internet. Whether you need to promote your business, educate, inform, or entertain, if you don’t yet have a professionally produced video for your website, we can help. Visit www.sitca.com, or for a free consultation with no obligation write info@sitca.com. (K) AMERICAN ENGLISH TEACHER – Private and group classes available for children. 300BHT hourly for group classes, 600BHT hourly for private one-on-one class. Speech, conversation and pronunciation specialized. Located near asok BTS. Email at brianestradaifa@yahoo.com or call 0844632123 (K) CASA CITY TOWN HOUSE – 1056/39 Ramkhamhaeng Rd. 3 stories, 4 levels with 3 bed. 4 bath. kitchen, 2 living rooms, and dining room. Corner unit with 2 car park. 23 sq. wah Air condition in every room. Sale 6 Million tel. 086-537-2557 Khun Naree (C) VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – to make English educational aid at home, any nationality, age, sex, do at your free time & submit when have enough quantity, the finished items will be donated to poor-opportunity students. Please contact: w.newt@yahoo.com (C) SALE SUKH 24 – 3b 3b ff low fl. 174m 10.5 mill. Rent sale Sukh 26 2b 2b. 75m low fl. FF 22,000.00 - 5.2mill. Cell: 0850731972. (A) TEACHING ESL, a preview workshop for career ESL teachers, GRATIS. To be conducted by Robert A. Landen, Director of the California Language Institute. Location near BTS Phrom Phong. Saturday March 17. Reservations required. Future dates will be available. 08 9059 5694 cli4english@gmail.com (C) STAFF WANTED – Looking for a staff, required:can speak good Thai and medium level of Japanese or English, main work: taranslation and reserching etc., Salary: min.10000bhat-. Office is located in Sukhumvit. Contact email: kuroki@earth-1.org (B) GOLF - Brand New Prokennex Golf Putters - Left or right handed, ex promotional items, never used and retail at Central for approx. Bt3,800. For sale at Bt750 Each. Photographs available. Contact Andy, 0808149080, anhyde@gmail.com (B)
BANGKOK TRADER
LUXURY CONDO AT PATTAYA Naklua soi 12 , sea view, Wong Amat beachdesigner finish, fully furnished, 2BR, 3Bath rooms, direct besch access, many swimPools, waterfalls,gim, sauna,jacuzzi. See: http://2-thai.com/thailand_pattaya_ condo/2808.html , 082 8162899 Mikhail, customss0@gmail.com (B) FOR RENT or Sale Unique 2 Bedroom Apartment, 167 sqm, at The Lanai, Yen Akart, Bangkok Rent this spacious, oneof-a-kind, top floor corner unit of 167 sqm in The Lanai, an exclusive low-rise development of only 34 units, in a quiet area just minutes from the CBD. On Soi Yen Akart 2 with easy access to Sathorn, Silom, Rama IV and just five minutes to BTS and underground stations. Details at www.pansea.com (D) WATERCOLOUR and glass workshops! One day workshops - suitable for beginners and for those wishing to refresh their skills - offered in both watercolour painting and kiln-formed glass making. Email louise@ louisetruslow.com for full details. (D) 20TH CENTURY HISTORY books for sale in excellent condition and reasonablypriced at 40 percent of full price once read in virtually new condition. There are about 50 books with some well-read older books all less than 200 baht each. There is also a wide selection of historic discs of all sorts from 1888 onwards to 1960. Please contact me to view the collection at nigelinseychelles@gmail.com (A) HOT SALE! Condo Penthouse Suk. 53 Thonglor area. 257sqm 3br. 4 ba, 3 balconies, kicthen, maid’s room. Really nice decoration, 100% condition. Fully furnished with electric appliances. Well maintenance Condo, Good neighbours. Peaceful area. please see pictures at www. chosenmarketing.com/habitat . Full facilities. Negotiable price! Please call 0891062240 or email to 2purelife@gmail.com (B) CHITLOM @ 66,000/sqm: Think leasehold for affordable luxe. Grade A, 88-sq-m, 1-bedroom at President Place Condo at InterCon/Holiday Inn Ratchaprasong compound; with 1 parking, full facilities and 5-star hotel support, reduced to 5.8M bht. 22 years more for this leasehold condo. Rain, shine or flood, simply stroll to CentralWorld, Gaysorn or to BTS Chitlom -- all within 2-5 minutes walk on elevated linked skywalk. Call Pat at 668-38289035 (B) HAIR & BEAUTY SALON For Sale South Pattaya. Great location in City Walk Pattaya (next to Royal Garden plaza) on beach front. 7 work stations, 2 massage tables, good clientele base. Two 5 star hotels nearby. Free parking. No licence required, no key money, profitable business, accounts available. 30,000 baht/month rent, only 980,000 baht. Relocating hence sale price. Call 080-0959002 (D)
APRIL 2012 - 15
AMERICAN FEMALE ENGLISH TEACHER - Private English lessons for all ages. Experience with ages 3-59 years old. TESOL certified, communication degree from the University of Washington, pharmaceutical & medical supply manager from USA. Professional resume’/ CV assistance. Speech, conversation, phonics, pronunciation specialized. Experienced English, math & science teacher for government, private and professional language schools in Bangkok. Meet at home or in public place. 300-500 BHT per hour. E-mail reneeeverest@ gmail.com, call 084 608 9045 (A) CONDO FOR SALE (By owner) on Sukhumvit Rd, and Rama 4 Rd only 5 mins walk to BTS Phrakanong, 1B/R, 1B/ TH, Pantry, Living Rm fully decorated, Wall adjacent fr oth rooms, Clean, nice, private, prime location, Facilities: Swimming pool, Sauna, Library, Children room, Fitness, Parking lot, Sale Baht 3.45 million (Cheap & Good) by owner (08 4433 2272) (A) ARCTIC CIRCLE COOKING COURSES – designed for your helper / maid, personalized and individual trainin, strategies and techniques based on methods as opposed to recipe based teaching, in home sessions conform to clients convenience and needs, menus conform to client taste and nutritional requirements, instructor is european chef with international experience, weekly menu planning and shopping guide. erikhalvardsson@hotmail.com 08 4922 0731 (C) STERLING SILVER CIGARETTE box 11x9x3cm hallmarked by royal jeweler Mappin & Webb. Approximately 70 years old. Baht 3,500 ono. Rare antique book “Bangkok Siam” published 1928 by Royal State Railways of Siam. Superb condition. Baht 4,500 ono. Classic used man’s watch by Phillip Charriol. Mother of pearl face with small diamonds on numerals. Baht 9,000 ono. Please email me for picture(s) or appointment to view/buy (Silom) <martinrowleya@yahoo.com> (K)
HOUSE JOMTIEN Modern Thai/Bali style – 2/3 bedrooms, large living & dining rooms, office, european kitchen, maid’s and laundry rooms, jacuzzi, large garage, easy care walled garden. boat moorings, tennis court on complex. close beach, restaurants & shops. executive house built with finest marble, granite and asian hardwoods. for quick sale 19,800,000 baht - 4 million baht below original price. Tel: 085 048 3839 (C) CONDO FOR SALE / RENT – Pattaya. New 45sqm studio (building just completed). Located Cozy Beach Pratumnak Hill in prestigious area of Pattaya. 200m to beach. Close to shops, bars, restuarants. Fully Furnished, A/c, kitchen, Oven hob, microwave. Balcony overlooking swimming pool. Includes sauna, pool bar, restuarant, gym, library, rooftop garden, concierge facilities, 24hr security, cctv, underground parking. TV, internet, telephone. Price only 2.5m Baht or 12,000b month rent. Contact Nick 0800959002, email nickgreen3@hotmail.com Visit: www.emerald-palace.com (D) I TEACH IGCSE, AS & A level English Language, IGCSE English as a Second Language, IELTS, TOEIC, TOEFL & BULATS. I have a Masters Degree in International Teaching, a Ministry of Education Teaching Licence and a Clearance Certificate from the Royal Thai Police. These documents are available for you to check. I have taught English in international schools for 11 years & I have 27 years experience teaching in Thailand. Contact Mr. Peter at kwlc24@hotmail.com (D)
VIOLIN AND VIOLA LESSONS – experienced musician/teacher from USA with Master Degree. Violin students all ages, abilities, beginners to advanced, all those who dream about learning how to play violin and enjoy music! Preparation for entrance examinations to music schools, colleges in Thailand, Europe, America; scholarship auditions, ABRSM, IGCSE, A-level exams etc. Lessons in English, German, Italian, Russian at beautiful studio near Rama 9. Please e-mail THE NICHE CONDO SUKHUMVIT Mariam: mkosashvili@hotmail.com, text 49, 43 sqm, 4th floor, Fully furnished or call for details! Tel: 0814808573 (C) 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, living room & kitchen. Free shuttle service to Prompong DREAM BUNGALOW – land 272 sqm, & Thonglor BTS. Fitness with swimming house 120 sqm, 2 bedroom, big bathroom pool and sauna. Rent B.16,000 / month with Jacuzzi, 1 small room, marble with a 1 year contract. Contact Vickie floors, teakwood doors and kitchen, outside thai kitchen, design ceiling with 089 897 0017 (L) spotlights, superblock walls, water well COMMERCIAL BLD. home office – with filter system, small garden house Panasin Place, Soi 24/3, Ramkhamhaeng (app. 4,5 sqm), Carport (app. 16,5 sqm), Rd., Hua Mark, Bangkapi. 3 stories, 3 bed, Garden, government water, Telefone, 3 bath with Air condition. 2 car park. Lease ADSL-Internet, 1,3 km from sea and golf 18 years for 1.8 million. Rent 23,000 bath (Phoenix Golf) 10 km from South Pattaya per month, 1 year contract. Tel.086-537- (Ban Amphur). Price: 2.199.000 Baht Tel 2557 Khun Naree (C) 0806419742 Mail: andithai@gmail.com (A)
16 - APRIL 2012
BANGKOK TRADER
MARKETPLACE BE PART OF OUR NEW WEIGHT Loss Challenge at Sukhumvit! 12 weeks program to lose weight. Group to support. Personalized coaching. Meal Plan. Fun ! Call Monthita: 0879 072 575 wlcbkk@ gmail.com Part time job We are looking for people who want to be their own boss. Training provided. International business. www.wfhweb.com/arob (B) PRIVATE TEACHER: Experienced, professional and one who is already teaching at one of Bangkok’s most exclusive prep companies. TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, GRE, GMAT, or Conversational / Business English. Degree in Computational Physics from Harvey Mudd College, one of the top engineering schools in the US. 1000 THB/ hr. I’m not the cheapest, for a reason. Bad grammar and irregular accents are nearly impossible to undo, sound like a native instead. Contact me at private.tutor. bangkok@gmail.com (D) LAND FOR RENT and Sale in the north of Thailand; Sukhothai province. To avoid flooding.the land are located in City on main road #101 from Bangkok. Suitable for business or investment. Contact: Owner: 0801776847 (D) DUPLEX IN CONDO compound – for rent and sale - Sukhumvit 31. 195 sq.m. 3 bed, 3 bath with a carpark. Services included: 25 m. outdoor pool, tuk tuk, gym, kids playground, large garden. Rent at 60,000 bht. Come and see for yourself, seehttp:// www.dashomeonsukhumvit.com for more details. Contact 081 5646077. (D) HOUSE FOR SALE! between Bang Saray and Sattahip, 55 twah, close to Sukhumvit Road, 2 bedr. 1 air, 2 bathr. 2 kitchen, large terrace and carport, own well and water tank, phone line and cable TV. 1,39 Mio. THB. 0898681718 engl. 0850745196 thai. (L) HOT SALE: Doser coffee-grinder, brand: MACAP, from Italy, type: M4, C83, 625USD. Waring Xtreme high-power blender, from USA, type: MX1050XTS, 663 USD. David mobile 0905490286 (B)
LARRYS RESTAURANT SOI 22 Sukhumvit , has one of bangkoks best burgers, the Tijuana Burger. Go to bangkok burger blog.com. Larrys has American cusine with BBQ RIBS from 299.00 friday nights and Larrys famous Rueban sandwich at 275.00. Also with zorbas Greek restaurant next door. The Greek Pita bread Burger is a delight at 250 baht. Open for Breakfast from 630am and lunch and dinner. telephone 026634563 (L) FITNESS ACCESSORIES for sale. I have TRX, kettle bells, club bells, lebert buddy system, undulation rope and resistant bands for sale in a special rate for more information please contact TK: 0817315427 or email tkpt77@gmail.com or visit http:// www.bangkokkettlebells.com (A)
MICROSOFT X-BOX-360 GAME Gears of War 3, new and original (only 999 THB), Sharp KSH740 big rice cooker NEW!!! (only 799 THB), street vendor car, new wheels, new color (only 1299 THB), German books (good price), please call 087-9088268 (Khun Mario). (B) ENGLISH TEACHER from Canada in Bangkok, accepting students! englishteacher@live.ca (D) 2 YONEX BADMINTION racquets for sale, little use, very good condition. B760 plus model , large head and full strings, developed in Japan light steel shaft and racquet covers for both. 500 baht for both ph 0828128226. (L)
FOR SALE: Horse riding saddle with reins SEXY BKK COUPLE (man farang,lady and bit and riding helmet. All purpose thai) like to meet sweet lady! Let’s chat! saddle all leather in good condition. sexybkkcouple@hotmail.com (C) Contact K.Jazz 02-271-0987 ext.333. (K) APARTMENT FOR RENT – I have LEARN MUSIC in just 7-15 days workshop an apartment available for occupancy in your place . immediately. Apartment details are as guitar, keyboard, dance, experienced follows: Duplex penthouse, 31st Floor (A teacher. instruments sale and rent, unit), 490 sqm, 5 bedrooms with on suite. online facilaity contact +0885015795, Newly renovated, Location: Sukhumvit international +88017-501-61-501. email 24, Apartment: President Park (Ebony sanismusicschool@yahoo.com (B) Tower). Price: 120,000 Bht negotiable. Facilities: Tennis courts, health club, 3 RARE & OUT OF PRINT BOOKS (bold swimming pools, Children play area and caps). U.S. Aniquarian will buy and sell. squash court. To view please call Mr. Raj, 1-George Staunton. An Authentic Account 0819323042. (C) Of An Embassy From The King Of Great Britain To The Emperor Of China. (caps) 20TH CENTURY history books and London: 1797, 2 Volumes. 50,000B biographies in excellent once read 2-Riley. Birds Of Siam And Malay. (caps) condition and reasonably-priced for sale. Wash.: 1938, 581 pp. 1600B. Many other guide price is 40 p.c. of shop price. please titles re Thailand and Southeast Asia. contact N.Barrett nigelinseychelles@ 083-80-79610. (A) gmail.com 0871053664 (B) DELUX-CONDO for sale @ Sukhumvit Soi 13, three Min. to Nana BTS. 36 sqm. IN SUKHUMVIT 11 – as new 2Br FF condo completely furnished with all electric for rent. 85m/sq, master with ensuite, appliances, washer-dryer kitchen etc. naturally light & bright. Excellent facilities Large pool & Gym. Like new. Baht and convenient location! Asking 47,000 3.400.000 sold by owner. Tel: 084-7264- baht per month! Further enquires welcome – phone: K. J – 08 7812 6893 (C) 469. Email: paragon00@gmx.de (B)
BANGKOK TRADER
CLASSIC USED man’s watch by Phillip Charriol. Mother of pearl face with small diamonds on numerals. Baht 9,000 ono. Please email me for picture(s) or appointment to view/buy (Silom) martinrowleya@yahoo.com (D) CONDO FOR RENT: pak lane jomtien beach 35 sqm studio room closly private swimming pool, fully furnished at1st floor. contact k.phen call 087-8308044 or e-mail piccy_audit@hotmail.com (D) CONDO FOR SALE - Supalai City Home Sukhumvit - 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, living room / dining room, separate kitchen. 68 square meters. Low rise bldg - 5th Floor corner unit. Three A/C units, hot water, extra elect outlets. Kitchen cabinets, smoke alarms, sprinklers, new paint, curtain rods. Built 2008. 100 meters from Udomsuk BTS. Never flooded. Photos at: http://bangkok.craigslist.co.th/ reo/2719154159.html. Contact 089-9232615 or 081-754-6885. (B) CONDO OR HOME too hot? Then install solar window film and reduce the heat, cut annoying glare, block uv rays, save 30% on your aircon bill, increase safety, and make your home a more comfortable place to live. We are Thailand’s leading installer of Solar Window Tinting Films. European run so we fully understand your needs. Call Steve for a free quotation on 08-6083-9140 or visit www.solarkool.biz (B)
APRIL 2012 - 17
THE MET SATHORN 4 RENT 198 Sq.m. 3 Bed 4 Bath with maid quarter high floor. Rental 110,000 THB. More info. Please contact Jenny 085 071 8396 or visit www.bangkokcondoonline.com (K)
IF YOU ARE BASED in Bangkok and a member of the transgender community we would like to invite you to join The Katoey Connection. This is a non-profit group for socializing. Visit us at: http://members. go-tranz.net/group/TheKatoeyConnection GROUP HEALTH Insurance Scheme *Note: This is not a sex or dating group. already up & running. Last year’s rates It is only for meeting new people in our apply until 1st June this year. Still room community. (B) for individuals & families to join. Excellent rates, not age related. Eligible age up to 2-BEAUTIFUL PLOT of land – 153 69 & no medical history required. giles@ talangwa (plus 60 ‘wa for free) 1,254,600 expatmoneymatters.com 0899 862 315 (B) baht and 637 talangwa (plus 130 ‘wa for free) 3,509,000 baht. at Kaengkoi Saraburi. FED UP with the excess weight? I have River front and mountain view. “No flood” no miracle cure but I can help you address just only 1:15 hrs from Bangkok. Ideal for your self-talk, self-image, motivation, bungalow or homestay. tel. 081-5569156, habits, and much more that you probably 081-5122567 (near a new campus of uni. don’t even know yet! Hypnosis will make of chula) (D) a world of difference. Call 0882270553 or MOBILE PHONE. Nokia. Sim card plus. see www.hypno-therapy.net (Tom) (D) 2.500 baht minutes available. True move CONDOS AND HOUSES on prime/ best network. Asking price 2000baht. Call locations for rent in Bangkok areas on 0891539116 (B) resonable price include free service. More details contact 08 3 7017059 ONE NEAR NEW Rocking Bassinet or pavillion@gmail.com (L) ideal for putting baby to sleep in very 81 SQ METER, two bedroom, 5/17 fl. 1km good condtion, 1000 baht. 2 baby from BTS On Nut at Sukhumvit 50. Newly rockers with pillows, 300 baht each. renovated with Index furniture. Quite Portable cot very good condition without location and nice open view on balcony. mattress can see assembly, 1000baht 24 hr camera and security, swimming Ph 0828128226 (L) pool and gym. High-End condo with quality neighbours Photos: http://bangkok. TWO FLOOR TOWN house located off craigslist.co.th/apa/2740072335.html -- ratchada sub soi by huay kwang subway posted by owner. Tel 089-202-4866 (A) station. partly furnished,3 bed rooms, two
DESIGNERS OWN HOUSE for sale in ENGLISH teacher Bangkoks green, flood free peninsula PRIVATE “Bangkachao”. 2-story house 192 sqm, Experienced, professional and reliable. 100 twl land, built 2008. Minimalist All ages and all levels welcome. Native Scandinavian style 2 bed, 3 WC, front speaker from UK. Contact Emma for / back garden, solar heated water in all further details 0860878173 or e-mail taps, double walls, CCTV. Only 30-40 emz_798@hotmail.com. (L) min. to Asoke / Sukhumvit, it’s truly an undiscovered oasis in city. See www. SUPER-CHARGE YOURSELF ! See bomancreative.com/house - 10,7 mill baht yourself as a more elegant communicator! Does NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) by owner. Call 08 3859 3336. (B) ring a bell? No matter if you studied it from A FURNISHED ROOM with Free HS books or already attended life seminars Internet (in Ploenchit Townhouse) for rent or not, you still desire practicing it, don’t - Bht8,800. It’s located in heart of city. you? Luckily NLP has helped millions of Size 25 sqm. 5 mins walking from BTS people achieve greater success, increase skytrain station & close to embassies confidence, relationships and overcome &expressway, easy to go anywhere you fears! Now join 4-Free www.Meetup.com/ wish in Bangkok near all famous shopping NLP-Bangkok . Check out the monthly malls / supermarkets / fitness. To view the NLP practicing meetings. (A) room please call to make an appointment a day earlier. Penny: Tel 0894998356 INVESTMENT Opportunity Sukhumvit: (1030–1230 am). e-mail to pashaporns@ New, unfurnished, double-unit condo for sale situated on the 3rd floor in a prime yahoo.com, benz_ps@hotmail.com (B) corner site. Each unit has a large room, STERLING SILVER cigarette box kitchen, bathroom and balcony, with good 11x9x3cm hallmarked by royal jeweler quality fittings throughout. This condo Mappin & Webb. Approximately 70 years presents a good letting opportunity as 1 old. Baht 3,000 ono. Rare antique book unit or 2, and is a 10 min. walk from Bang “Bangkok Siam” published 1928 by Royal Na BTS with easy expressway access. State Railways of Siam. Superb condition. Price 1.8 million baht. maxineping@ Baht 4,500 ono. (D) hotmail.com or 0896626274 (B)
bathrooms, no animals allowed. one year rent contract. if interested please contact email address: onchuda.liu@gmail.com (D)
CONDO FOR RENT: Park Lane Jomtien Resort, Pattaya 35 Sqm studio room at 1st floor closely private swiming pool, Fully furnished 1 bed and living room. Contact: Phen. Call 087-8308044 or Email: piccy_ audit@hotmail.com (B) SANDEE THAI LANGUAGE School – Price 18,000 THB. Get 1-year ED Visa. @ RCA, Bangkok. Tel:084 388-2832. www. sandee.ac.th (B) TOWNHOUSE Sukhumvit Soi 15 fully modernized & furnished. 5bed 6bath 7aircon modern kitchen, gated subsoi opposite NIST main entrance. THB 42500 per month Phone Bua 0879172056 (B) BRAND NEW CONDO for rent: perfect location - green, Bangkok, easily in and out of town. Modern, urban chic, fully furnished incl. all electricals, glass balcony, 30 sqm, 1-bedroom, bath tub, 15/F. Enjoy 2 roof-top pools and gyms. Directly at BTS Udom Suk! BITEC exhibition center within view. Free parking, in-building shopping on 2 floors. THB 15,000/month, minimum 6 months. Contact Mark on 089-067-5300. (A)
18 - APRIL 2012
BANGKOK TRADER
MARKETPLACE JUST OVER 6 RAI Land for building in Pak Chong on the edge of Khao Yai. Thai owner needs funds for resort development, hence 420k baht per rai. 6 and a bit for the price of 6. Adjoining land recently sold for 500k baht per rai. gilescullingford@ hotmail.com 0899 862 315 (B) RENOVATED 3BR & 3 bath 190sq/m FF condominium for rent @ 45,000 B/month. Location is between the Ekamai BTS and Big C. Near by is a California Wow, Major Cinemas, Irish pub and 24 hour supermarket, yet the condo is in a green & quiet area offering uninterrupted views. Ph: K. J on 08 7812 6893 (C) MAZDA 2, New Modell 2010, 28.07.2010, Foreigner name, color: sparklinggold, Typ: Sedan, 1.498 ccm, 103 PS, Automatic, allow-wheels, sport antenna, sport exhaust, First class insurance till 28.07.2010, all inspection done (Mazda) , AIRBAG, ABS, Window rain protector 4 x, Back drive sensor, Film, elct. Windows 4 x, elec. Mirror 2 x, Underground and much more, approx. 14.600 km, only 499.999 Baht Tel: 0806419742 Mail: andithai@ gmail.com (A) PRIVATE JAPANESE LESSON – experienced teaching in China. Around Sukhumvit area, weekday,1 houraround 500 bhat. Ms. Yuko. Email: kamado8changemax@gmail.com (C) CDSANDWICH.COM – Fresh Sandwiches, Salads & Juices made to order. Choose from our extensive menu and order at www.cdsandwich.com or call us on 02 692 40 85. Thonglor, Silom, Ploenchit, Siam, Ratchada, Sathorn, Narathiwat, Ekkamai, Rama 4, HuayKwang, Chitlom, Asoke. Business meetings & special events catered also. Enjoy your meal. (C)
3 BEDROOM 140M/SQ condo in Sukhumvit 10 for sale – 13,000,000 baht! Has kitchen with oven, large living, good sized balcony, storage room, master with ensuite, having separate bath and shower plus wooden floors throughout. Is presently achieving 47,000 baht/month income! Ideal for investment or as a future home base in Bangkok. Ph: K. J on 08 7812 6893 (C)
BUSINESS/FINANCIAL consultants, estate planners, will writers & paralegals are required to join our organization. Full/ Part-Time vacancies are available. (If you don’t have the qualifications, then you may attend our seminars and be certified). Franchises/Agencies are available. For further information and to send your resume/CV to: legalalliance777@gmail. com Mobile No. (087) 9915655 (A)
THAI LESSONS: for foreign children or adults. 6-year-experienced with foreign students. In-house or coffee shop. time can be arranged. Free trial contact 084119-6661. Or email for more information at: na_ta_nie@yahoo.com (C)
LAZY BOY Leather Rocker/Recliner Chair For Sale – Model: Dream Time. Color: Cognac. 18 months new with 10 year warranty in excellent condition. Asking 25,000 thai baht. Call Greg 089-762-2731 (A)
CONDO FOR SALE@LUMPINI view (thailand cultural centre) 2 bedrooms with air conditioner, living room, 2 bathrooms, electric water heater for shower, wardrobe, refrigerator, washing machine, build-in, parking, convineient stores........please contact jean tel. no. 080-064 5665. (C)
GERMAN BOOKS for children (ages 1 6) for sale. My daughter has outgrown all of her German picture and story books as well as some Ravensburger jigsaw puzzles and simple board-games. She would like to create some space on her bookshelf by selling her collection at a very reasonable price (50 - 100 Baht per book). If you are I AM A QUALIFIED and respectable interested, please contact us at: standtt@ business negotiating Consultant, with truemail.co.th (B) excellent credentials and references, travelling regularly between BKK and FULLY FURNISHED 2 BEDROOM & 2 India, Middle East, Australia and Europe, bathroom 100 sq m condo for rent or sale in I can professionally represent you or your Raintree Villa 5th floor tower B, Sukhumvit company on any PC business matter soi 53 with 32 inch LCD, video, brand within any of the above areas please new frig, washing machine, laminate and contact: Dr. John on jas@rainconsult. spotlights in entire unit. Rent 35 K, selling com. Or 00447855546299 for further price 7.5 M immediately available please contact Daniel (08) 23236883 or e-mail information. (A) danvde@gmail.com (D) FRAGRANT CONDOMINIUM for sale – 115 sq m, 2 bedrms, 2 bathrms, 1 living, INTERNET HELP NEEDED – Can I get 1 dining, I kitchen (fitted), 2 balconies, help from fellow expats in Bangkok? I ‘ve fully furnished and includes all electrical been turned down for an Adsense account appliances. Condo is just 5 years old. The six times. I’m told it is because I live in building is low rise – just 8 floors and this Thailand. Please help me get traffic levels unit on the 6th floor. Opening Price: Baht up so they won’t deny me again. Sign on 7 million (negotiable); Transfer fee: to to WWW.OldSchoolTriathlon.com - look be shared by buyer and seller. For more around, “like” something, maybe write a information call Kittima at 0818262399 or comment so I get extra traffic at just the Kittima@ns.co.th (B) right time. Thanks (J)
BANGKOK TRADER
FRESH SANDWICHES, salads and juices made to order. Make your choice through our large menu at www.cdsandwich.com, pass your order online or call us at 02 692 40 85. Enjoy your meal. (D) 74 SQM two bedrooms + kic din for rent at sukhumvit soi 18 25000 bath monthly please call 0878009370 (D) IMMO DE BANGKOK Co.,Ltd – Real estate Agency. Welcome to Immodebangkok. If you want to sell, rent or buy condominium, we can help you to reach your objective, just visit to our website: www.immodebangkok.com or call us: Khun Kay: +66 081- 825 4363 (D) ACCOUNTING AND TAX SERVICES SMEs registered in Thailand looking to Certified Public Accountant for prepare and submit,The Financial statement and tax return to Thai Government agencies. Please contact K.Yuth at yandkconsult@gmail.com. (B) CONDO FOR SALE - 4.9 MTHB (Rental option available), Central Bangkok. Fully Furnished 2 Bedroom & 2 Bathroom. A short walk from the Ploenchit BTS, located near the British Embassy. 34th floor with fantastic views of Bangkok. 101m2, Swimming, Fitness, Minimart & Laundry onsite. Contact Jaz on + 66 860486823 or e-mail: jazsidhu67@hotmail.com (B) MOVING – sell many items, best of small library, classic antiques art work everything musical just cool stuff. call anytime 0878103763 (A) LUXURY CONDO AT PATTAYA for rent or for sale in high standing building on Wong Amat Beach, best location in Pattaya 163 sqm fully furnished 3 bed 3 bath European kitchen Every room has large balcony with stunning views on the sea and the islands Direct beach access Infinity swimming pool jacuzzi sauna fitness center tennis squash snooker sauna communal gardens restaurant minimart covered car park 24H security. 54000/month, 14,5 mil. Baht. 0903943933 (Thai phone number) (B) HUA HIN MARRAKESH condos for rent @ HuaHinstay.com! 1,2 & 3 bedroom units for daily, weekly or monthly rental, with prices as low as THB 1,XXX per day! Beautiful, individually-designed, fully-furnished rooms with housekeeping. Check site or email info@huahinstay.com. (C) 1 BED 1 BATH in Omni Tower Sukhumvit Soi 4 well furnished incl 42” flat screen TV 27,000 Baht per month 1 year lease. gilescullingford@hotmail.com 0899 862 315 (B)
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FOR SALE RESTAURANT off of Rama IV. seats 120 people, 230sqm huge outdoor seating area with view to swimming pool. Located in an apartment /hotel building. serving international food with room service, outside pizza delivery and banquet/catering service. excellent loyal customer base. 2.5 MB incl. company, stocks and assets. Rental 30K/ mo. Contact Denis at 081 722 3505 or email sunsetrunner2010@yahoo.com. (C) A MUSIC/LANGUAGE teacher for your kids – I’m a Year 10 music scholar from an international school in BKK. I need a part-time job to teach your children to play flute and/or music theory, or even English or Thai languages. If you are interested please contact: 081-804-1252. (A) VIP CONDO PATTAYA studio – 40 sqm. fully furnish, seaview with private beach, swimming pool, tennis court, and jogging track. 10th Fl. Room A 1009. 1 year contract rent 9,000 baht per month. Sale 1.7 million. Tel. 086-537-2557 Khun Naree (C) LUXURY CONDO AT PATTAYA for rent or for sale in high standing building on Wong Amat Beach, best location in Pattaya 163 sqm fully furnished 3 bed 3 bath European kitchen Every room has large balcony with stunning views on the sea and the islands Direct beach access Infinity swimming pool jacuzzi sauna fitness center tennis squash snooker sauna communal gardens restaurant minimart covered car park 24H security. 54000/month, 14,5 mil. Baht. 0903943933 (Thai phone number)) (B) RENT NEW 2 BEDS condo at BLOCS 77 (Onnut BTS) – For rent in brand new condominium, located at Onnut area. 2 beds, 65 sqm, high floor, unblocked view, rental price: 28000 /Month. more details, please call khun Kay: 081-825 4363 or visit our website: www.immodebangkok.com (D)
ITALIAN PIANIST and keyboards player and singer performing standard Italian and International songs etc. leaving in Bkk. since 2000. I used to play at the Italian Restaurants - Hotels in Bangkok. I’m willing anytime. Inquiring Kind contact Sergio on 0813641830 (L) LUXURY CONDO for rent – Ivy Thonglor. Brand new furnished apartment, 1 bed room, 43 sq/m, corner unit, 21st floor, equipped kitchen, Jacuzzi and shower, 42” TV, DVD, cable TV, internet Wi Fi, gym, children playground, swimming pool, locates between Thonglor 21 - Thonglor 23. 38000 bath per month. Ready to move in, Supakar Nanni, contact n. tel. 0818688466 (D) 20TH CENTURY history and biography 60 books for sale in prices, once read new condition 60 pc discount off cover price. Contact nigelinseychelles@gmail.com (D) SEEKING JOINT venture to luanch an Executive Residence project in Sukhothai province. No flood areas are located on Asia Road No.101 which is 36 kilometers from City/Muang district and 12 kilometers from Bangkok Airways boutique airport. Easy to access north and northeast direction. Contact: phachuthai@yahoo. com 08 0177 6847 (D) CAMPBELL CHAMBERS Thai Law Office – professional legal services for tourists and expats by English speaking lawyers, providing legal advices, full services, in conjunction with Campbell Chambers Solicitors of London. 20 years experiences in civil and criminal cases. New company formation – easy, speedy setting up business with one stop services (company registration, tax, accounting, and translation) work permits, visa, immigration, marriage. Conveyancing lawyer - land and property buying and selling. Hotline: 081-5581394. Tel/Fax: 02-278-1879. Email: law@campbellchambers-thai.com (C)
VOLVO XC70 2003 model dark green exterior, brown leather seats. 128,000 km BECOME YOUR OWN life-coach today. full Volvo service record 700,000 Baht. “Your inner strength is your outer Phairoj 081806 5087 (D) foundation” Allan Rufus. My work is about self discovery, and then using this IS THERE ANYONE wants to learn knowledge to enhance my life in personal Japanese pleasantly? Please E-mail me development. Every day is a learning and let’s talk about details of your lesson. curve. The wisdom is using this knowledge poteto6176@gmail.com (D) wisely to benifit yourself and eventually MORE THAN 1,000 LIST of businesses others. What good is knowledge if we - for sale, very useful in tele-sales and don’t use it! What awareness can you marketing. The contact list comprises bring in your life today? More information golf clubs, banks, shopping malls, fitness www.allanrufus.org (D) clubs, restaurants, travel company, hotel and more. With complete details like name NEED A QUIZ? Professionally prepared of the owner, GM, Manager, phone, e-mail with additional themed and novelty rounds. and address. The contact list is in English Suitable for weekly or one off special for 6,000 Baht only. Please contact K. events. Contact David. Tel: 0800451580 or e-mail ddickinson_uk@yahoo.co.uk (A) Rain cotto.en@gmail.com (L)
20 - APRIL 2012
BANGKOK TRADER
MARKETPLACE 93 SQM DUPLEX AT SOI 13 SUKHUMVIT two bedroom two bathrooms spare toilet flat t v very nice condo big pool new fur for only 40000 bath monthly for a year contract please call 0802736716 080268100 (A) STUDIO AT THE MARKLAND PATTAYA 46 SQM hi flour seavew for rent studio at naklua for rent one year contract only 9000 bath a month please call 087 800 9370 or 080268100 (A) PHAHOLYOTHIN PARK CONDO FOR SALE – low rise condo in Phaholyothin soi 14, 2nd floor, 90 sqm., 2 beds 2 baths, 2 parking, large green area, tennis court, near BTS Aree n Sapankwai, near Villa Aree n Big C, near Paolo Hospital, access from Phaholyothin 2, 8 and 14, Indramara soi 4 and Vibahvadee Rd. Sell at 5,000,000 bt only. Please contact : Nat 083-8435888 (C)
PRIVATE THAI / CHINESE/ FRENCH LESSON & Interpreter for business, work, legal, military, education, and staying in Thailand with free sheets in Bangkok. Services are designed for individual or group request with effective method by native speakers or experienced team. 400 – 700 THB / hour. Translation: from 3-17 THB / word. For more information and other services please contact Christal: 081-791-5621 or Email language_wisdom_network@hotmail.com (C) 121 SQM AT SUKHUMVIT SOI 18 two bedrooms big kic and dining flat t v very nice soi for rent only 33000 bath a month for a year contract please call 0878009370 (A)
CONDO THE LINK #4 by BTS On Nut (Sukumwit 50) Condo 41 sqm, 1bed 1 bath. On the sixth floor. Tesco-Lotus located across APARTMENT FOR SALE: Silom area., 141 sqw., 7 stories, 16 the street. Fully furnish and brand new. Condo has swimming units (70-135 sqm., 1 and 2 bedrooms), fully furnished, jaguzzi, pool, fitness room,security system, public laundry room. 15,000.sauna, rooftop garden, 24 hours security and CCTV, walking baht per month. One year contract (negotiable). (D) distance to BTS Surasak, near Top supermarket, expressway, schools, and Jewelry trade center, can access from Silom Rd, TWO FLOOR TOWN HOUSE located at Pracharajbumpen 20, Surawongse Rd, and Mahesak Rd. Ratchada, about 900 meters to Huay Kwang subway station. Please contact: Nat 083-8435888 (C) Partly furnished, 3 bed 2 bath, no animal allowed. 15,000.- baht ENGLISH NOW. English instruction at all levels English at home. Early English classes for kids English conversation Examination preparation English at work Business English basic to advanced Specific purpose English eg Hotel English. Basic office English. Classes where you are. Over 10 years experience in Bangkok. Nowenglish27@yahoo.com. (K)
per month, one year contract (negotiable). (D)
SPANISH TRANSLATIONS AND INTERPRETATION – Spanish native speaker offers translation and interpretation services. Websites, contracts, official letters, manuals etc. Both for private companies and official institutions. Thai translations and Accounting also offered. Call 0870470590 or email: Spanish_Consultant@yahoo.es (D)
NEED A WEBSITE? – We at tobe-website.com offer different ranges of pricing for all your website needs. We consist of a group of freelancers who have your business needs in our best interest. Whether its content writing, printing services, content design or other services. “A real decision is measured by the fact that you’ve taken a new action. If there’s no action, you haven’t truly decided.” (Tony Robbins). E-mail:yui@tobewebsite.com or Aldo (0877941183). (C)
CENTER-CONDOTEL in South-Pattaya, 14 TH Floor, TukcomView, 50 SQM, fully Furnished, Ready to move in, Price: 2.350.000 Baht Phone: 0896020642 Email: manfredgauff@ yahoo.com (L) TNGLISH TEACHING books aids and household goods – Large selection (from basic English to Intermediate level) of English teaching books and teaching aids, lesson plans including some books on overhead transparency film. corporate training examples and material. Small Toshiba refrigerator- 1500bht, Sony television 17 inch- 2000bht, Brother printer MFC3220C Colour prints faxes copies and scans- 2500bht, computer desk with side shelves either side- 1500bht. Picture can be supplied along with price. Contact 0859574764 or corptrainplus@aol. com (D)
FREE ONLINE Nutritional Coaching! Eat well, lose weight, Gain weight, Sport… Personalized coaching, Group to support, Nutritional information. Recognition! www.ichange.com/user/ wellness3366 (D)
MODERN CONDO for rent near BTS- great price 81 Sqm, 2 B/R & 2 Bath. Newly renovated & F/F in modern and bright style ( LCD & washing machine), 7 mins. Walk distance to Ploenchit BTS. Only THB 26,500 per month. More info contact: 082-4448499 or email siamtc@ji-net.com (L) COMPLETE SET DIVE GEAR, excellent condition, well cared for. BCD (Dive Rite), Mares-Reg & Mares-Alt, Mission gauges, Mission-wrist compass, Seacsub mask, snorkel, Cressi-fins (9-10), Cressi-full wet (80kg-m), ProBlue-shorty,booties (9)-2pr, gloves (m), Fusilier knife Sun Night-light, mini-light, dive marker, Oceanic dive bag. Bangkok (Rachadamri).. Steve.0874538018. (K)
22 - APRIL 2012
BANGKOK TRADER
Bangkoktails By Dave Stamboulis
In a city famed for its nightlife, both naughty and naught, you’d think that Bangkok would be a bartender’s paradise, with drinks spouting up out of every corner and soi. While the corner and soi part might be true, it hasn’t been until recently that this city has learned to make a good cocktail. Years ago, a request for a margarita or a mojito usually brought one of two things to one’s barstool, either a watered-down, soda-like concoction or else something with a lot of alcohol… but not much else in it. Yet suddenly this resurgence happened, mainly led by new restaurants specializing in traditional Thai food aimed at a discerning upmarket crowd, making the City of Angels a watering hole worth talking about. Soul Food Mahanakorn, the Thonglor shophouse eatery started by American food writer Jarett Wrisly, features wholesome ingredients and traditional Thai street food, and Wrisly wanted drinks to go along with the dishes that accentuated the tastes of Thai cuisine. He and his bartender, the renowned Markus Bernthaler, came up with a group of strong concoctions with apt names such as the Bun Bang Fai or Jai Yen Yen that feature chilies, lemongrass, galangal, basil, and ginger, all staples of Thai cooking. All drinks are double pours, and needless to say, pack a spicy wallop. Bo Lan, the classy restaurant opened by Michelin chef Dylan Jones and his partner Duangporn Songvisava (who has a Master’s degree in Thai gastronomy) also started serving cocktails meant to accentuate traditional tastes. Their ginger martini is made with vodka that has been infused with ginger that has macerated for several weeks. Such a potion could convince even lightweights that they were merely loading up on medicinal benefits. With this new revival, even Thai Tourism got in on the act, with an initiative for local bartenders to create a unique national drink that would rival the Singapore Sling and undoubtedly bring even more tourists to ‘amazing’ (or is it
‘miracle’ now?) Thailand. The result was something called the Siam Sunray, and while the drink has yet to catch on in a lot of bars or give the Sling a run for its money, not to mention that it resembles a bowl of tom yum soup perhaps more than it does a cocktail, it actually is quite tasty. In case you are wondering, it is made of Smirnoff vodka, coconut liqueur, and lime juice, and then infused with kaffir lime, ginger, lemongrass, coriander, and chili. The Sunray is probably best sampled at the site of its creation, the D’Sens restaurant and bar in the Dusit Thani Hotel. Over at the fancy new St Regis Hotel, the bartenders came up with their own idea of a local creation. The St Regis chain claims that the fist Bloody Mary was invented at its bar in New York, and now they have extended the family to the Siam Mary, to which chilies, lemon, and coriander are added to the tomato juice, and served up in a 14-ounce silver goblet. Not just satisfied with a new signature drink, the St. Regis also brought over its old tradition of champagne sobering, an art made popular in the Napoleonic era, in which the collar is separated from the neck of a champagne bottle with a saber. The St Regis has popularized this ritual since the Astor family founded the original St Regis in New York in the 1930s, and has now brought the ritual to Bangkok every night at sunset. Other drinks to make you feel like a local include the ‘Hangovertini,’ inspired by The Hangover film sequel, and, of course, served at the Sky Bar in the Lebua State Tower, the site of several of the movie’s scenes. Then there is the Muay Thai Punch, comprised of Sangsom, triple sec, dark rum, lime, orange, syrup and grenadine, and served up by the friendly folks at the What The F*** (better known as ‘WTF’) watering hole, café, and gallery on Sukhumvit Soi 51. All these ‘Siamified’ beverages might make you think that good, old-fashioned cocktails might not still be available in the Big Mango, but my buddies rave
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about the caipirinhas served at Thonglor’s Shades of Retro bar, claiming they are the best they’ve tasted outside of Brazil, and Terminal 21’s swanky new Mix Restaurant has been touted for making a mean mojito (while at the same time trying to make Bangkok’s first Baked Alaska!). And if all else fails, well, there is still plenty of headache-inducing Chang to be found. Bottoms up! Dave Stamboulis is a freelance photographer and travel writer based in Bangkok. He is the author of Odysseus’ Last Stand, which received the Silver Medal Book of the Year award from the Society of American Travel Writers. He can be contacted at pedallerdave@hotmail.com.
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BANGKOK TRADER
Navigating the Bangkok Noir By Voicu Mihnea Simandan
Noir is in fashion, and Bangkok noir is the latest ‘trend.’ Either in literature or art, noir is everywhere and Chris Coles’s album of expressionist art, Navigating the Bangkok Noir (Marshall Cavendish, 2011), stands as proof. The album comprises of one hundred close-ups of Bangkok nightlife. All of them are watercolors on paper and were created by the artist between 2004 and 2007. Chris Coles is an artist and filmmaker who spends his creative time between two cities of angels: Los Angeles and Bangkok. For the people of Bangkok, Chris Coles’s work represents the faces of the good, the bad, and the unfortunate who negotiate on a daily basis a living in a Bangkok different than the one usually advertised on the Tourist Authority of Thailand brochures. It is the Bangkok of the red light districts. It is the Bangkok Noir. The album couldn’t have had a better introduction than the one penned by Christopher G. Moore, another noir champion stationed in Bangkok. In The Bangkok Noir Movement, the essay that opens Coles’s album, Moore looks at what noir means for us, the residents of Bangkok, and places the artist’s paintings in its context: “modern pop art with contemporary pulp story telling.” The vignettes Chris Coles wrote to accompany each of his noir paintings take us deeper into the darkness of Bangkok’s nightlife. The protagonists of Chris’s paintings are people he met or observed in various ‘hot’ locations, from clubs mostly frequented by old timers to the tourist-oriented ones on Soi Cowboy. A special focus among his ‘subjects’ are the ladies of the night, most of them dancing in brief clothing at the pole or waiting their first (or last) customer of the day. Two very striking paintings are Washington Square Girl, the portrait of a ‘working girl’ whose harsh life back home in the village just seems to jump out of the picture; and Wild and Crazy Guy, the epitomizing image of your run-of-the-
mill tourist who back home leads a safe and socially acceptable life, but once he lands in Bangkok, he is “ready to hunt large animals with a club and drag women back to his cave.” With the recent publication of Bangkok Noir, a collection of dark short stories edited by Christopher G. Moore, plus Navigating the Bangkok Noir, which is already available in major bookstores throughout Thailand, the noir movement has taken a strong foothold in this Land of Smiles, where according to some, everything is wonderful and people are always smiling. Well, thanks to Chris Coles’s acute eye and artistic talent, we now know for sure that behind all the glitter and flashy lights, there’s a human drama that, on most occasions, we like to ignore or even forget it exists. Laurence Goldstein, the former editor of Michigan Quarterly Review, is of the opinion that “Many, most of the artworks in Navigating the Bangkok Noir are compelling by any definition, with those deep watercolors that sink into the mind’s eye like blue and red pools. I appreciate the coherence or focus of the book, so that each portrait, even of the dogs, intensifies the rest of the paintings. The captions construct an evolving sociological report on the whole area of Patpong and nearby regions. I love books that merge the verbal and visual as closely as this one does. The paintings eschew the usual standards of ‘beauty’ and reveal the undergarment of psychological life in each of the subjects.” Navigating the Bangkok Noir is also selling in Europe, North America, Australia, and around the other major cities in Asia. While Navigating the Bangkok Noir is an art book and not a ‘bestseller,’ it will never be dated and will have quite a long shelf life, maybe somewhere around fifty years. It is also now in some libraries of American major universities, art museums and art schools and is being used in academic courses at such universities as the University
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of North Carolina Chapel Hill, the University of Hong Kong, and the Australia National University. Not so long ago, the book was launched during a show at Bed Supperclub in downtown Bangkok, with the poster title of “Portraits from the Bangkok Night.” Among the guests attending the opening night were the U.S. Ambassador Kristie Kenney; the ex-Foreign Minister of Thailand, Kanthi Suphamongkhon; the head of Bangkok’s IKEA; and Robert Lacey, the Director of RBS Investment Bangkok in Thailand. Also, Chris was honored with the presence of Bangkok’s leading noir author Christopher G. Moore; Kevin Hewison, a prominent academic on Southeast Asia; the founder of Prachatai, Chiranuch Premchaiporn; the Thai Intelligent News blogger, Terrance Chulavachana; Thailand’s leading classical music composer/conductor, Trisdee na Patalung; Elizabeth Romhild, a leading female artist living in Bangkok; and even Sean Boonpracongthe, international spokesperson for the Red Shirt movement. The show was originally scheduled for two weeks, but kept getting extended until it finally ended recently. In those two months, a total of 50,000-plus people viewed the paintings, probably a record for any Bangkok art show. There will be another Bed Supperclub show in the future, probably in December 2012. A second follow-up book containing more of Chris Coles’s Bangkok paintings is in the works and might come out as early as Spring 2013. Both Kinokuniya stores in Siam Paragon and Emporium have Navigating the Bangkok Noir in their art sections at a shelf price of 600 baht. Emporium has it in the Thai studies section too. Asia Books Emporium tends to sell out of their copies and takes a while to restock, whereas the other Asia Books in Bangkok all have it, usually in the art section. Otherwise, Chris’s book is always available on the Internet from Kinokuniya, Asia Books, and Amazon. For a taste of this book, check out Chris Cole’s online gallery of expressionist art at www.chriscolesgallery.com. You can also access http://bangkok-noir. blogspot.com for Chris’s most recent paintings, plus little commentaries. Voicu Mihnea Simandan is a Romanian writer who has been living in Thailand since 2002. He can be contacted at mihnea_voicu@yahoo.com.
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BANGKOK TRADER
Bangkok Trader’s Networking Night Ladies Night Launch Party
Meets
It’s a double shot of pix this month to reminisce about the good ol’ days... well, the good ol’ days of just the last month or two – the great parties we had at Señor Pico at the end of January and the first-of-its-kind at Cookin’ Nanta at the end of February. Both great times, thanks to our most generous hosts who provided great refreshments and also thanks to our most wonderful guests – you! From the photos here, it seems that we all had a great time. It’s a bit of a Hangover moment for us... we’re still putting the pieces together by the rest of the shots (ugh, did someone say shots?). We’re still wondering who’s missing a body part that we’ll just leave undescribed. Please check out our Facebook pages – either http://goo.gl/UBsgo or http://goo.gl/EnNbR – for all the details on all of our parties this year... or just to see a lot more great pix of the fun we had at the Señor Pico and at Cookin’ Nanta. Just go to www.facebook.com and then search for “Bangkok Trader”. Add yourself on to get a monthly invitation to the parties. We’ll see you at the next one!
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Eating Air
My Mamon, the Filipino Sponge Cake By Shei Sanchez
Picture a cloud buoyant in the sky, its pillowy mass of water droplets floating straight to you. Now picture yourself biting into it. Your teeth sink in easily. You feel lighter with every nip and less guilty after every satisfying gulp. Bite into My Mamon’s sponge cake and soon you’ll be walking in the clouds. Memories in a munch When I was younger and much less worried about my daily caloric intake, mamons (a type of sponge cake originating in the Philippines) were part of my morning meals. It was a scrumptious snack that nicely followed a traditional Filipino breakfast of garlic fried rice, sausage, and eggs. I would look forward to gazing upon its golden exterior, shimmering unabashedly, before taking a celebratory mouthful. I would relish in these short moments of singular pleasure and thank those baking gods (or goddesses?) for my mamon. But such simple seconds of sugary glee waned as I grew older and more concerned about pounds per square-cake-inch. Mamons became more a nostalgic slip into reverie. A cherished sweetness of the past, these savory sponges were to be remembered with honor and without regret. Then came that fateful jaunt to Villa Market in Ari. They were in shiny plastic containers, individually ensconced in protective pods, as if to tell customers that each one has been made with utmost love and care. Overwhelmed with curiosity and a child-like excitement, I partook of a cheese mamon. Instantly, I was a kid again. Softness equals goodness The softness of My Mamon’s sponge cake is unlike any other. Kanita, the owner with the uncanny talent for all things baked and good, and her sister Nataporn, who runs the business side of things, attest to the uniqueness of the taste. Nataporn, who goes by Nat, asserts that My Mamon stands out from other
mamon-esque cakes because it’s not chiffon-like. The others feel heavier. This one, according to many of her Filipino co-workers, is ‘the real one.’ I can attest to that, too. The mamon’s lightness and airyness are its staple characteristics. Combining sugar, eggs, and flour with baking powder or air (which is created by the egg proteins’ denaturing by thermal expansion) is a delicate process. Done right – and with the right cake ingredients – the sponge can result in a gloriously soft suppleness. With every tasty morsel of My Mamon’s mamon, the texture maintains its pliable bounciness while allowing for gentle perforating bites. The other sponge cakes have ingredients that contribute to an overall less satisfactory flavor and experience. Kanita, who has a superhuman knack for parsing the ingredients upon having a couple of bites, can measure the freshness and quality of the cake in question. In short, she can judge whether it is made with good or not-so-good ingredients. My Mamon’s sponge cakes are made fresh every day. With only three locations (so far) to supply, Kanita and Nat deliver the mamons straight from their home. Because of this pure freshness, the mamon’s shelf life is short. They are best eaten within three days. A Thai with a Filipino recipe This story of a Thai baker and businesswoman reviving and redefining a Filipino dessert cannot be complete without giving compliments to the one person with the magical hands for baking: Nat and Kanita’s mother. Their mom has been blessed with the gusto of an entrepreneur and the gift of a pâtissière. Since Nat can remember, her mother would be busy making cookies and rolls, as well as tasty versions of the Chinese silapao. These would then be sold in front of their house. Besides these kinds of treats, their mother would also bake cakes for special occasions. Her two daughters remember growing up with specialized kitchen tasks while making cakes for New Year’s.
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BANGKOK TRADER
floss). These are quite affordable, too. Each one ranges from 15-20 baht. I suggest the cheese and foi thong. These mamons harbor images of walking in the park with a gentle breeze here and there. These cakes make you close your eyes and allow you to forget, but for a moment, other worries you’d rather not fuss about. Besides mamons, other delights are available. Almond cookies are a hot sell. They come in a plastic pale, which are available in different sizes. These cookies are so delicate that they crack at the mere touch of your finger and of course, your tongue. There are also bursts of sugar and butter that come in the form of toast. These small, crispy treats are shaped into miniature-sized slices of bread. Each one is packed with flavor. With garlic, sesame, and butter flavors, it’s difficult to have just one. Dipped in coffee or cocoa, you might as well have half the bag. Other cakes are also there for the taking and tasting. Kanita’s friend is known for her orange cake. Let lo and behold – My Mamon’s selection of orange cakes, among other toothsome goodies. They also have chocolate fudge cake, Thai tea cake, and blueberry cheese pie. A Thai version of mochi (Daifugu) comes in a package of four, each one with a different color. This mochi-inspired dessert, however, boasts having softer flour, ensuring a finer texture and resulting in a pleasant experience.
Years ago, a Filipino friend shared the mamon’s magic formula, among other Filipino dessert recipes, with their mother. “The recipe is still on 50-year-old paper,” Nat recalls. Their mom then tried it and became quite adept at making it as authentic as possible. When Kanita wanted to start a business, her mom suggested making mamons. With five years on their pastry belt, Kanita and Nat (and, of course, with their mom and her skillful hands) are blessed with a growing family business. My Mamon has added a Thai character to their sponge cakes. Though they still offer the traditional plain and cheese mamon that can cater to every Filipino’s desire, Kanita and Nat are also mindful of Thai tastebuds. Because of a predominantly Thai clientele, My Mamon also offer other toppings and flavors, such as ham and cheese, foi thong (golden threads), and muu yong (pork
Kanita has recently made her newest item for voracious consumption – cornflakes. Also in plastic pales, these cornflakes maintain their crunch and flavor even when eaten as a bowl of cereal with milk. This is not something Kellogg’s can do. Kanita’s mix includes raisins and almonds. Eat them plain as a snack or for breakfast (or a guilty pleasure midnight munch). Or better yet, just eat them, along with My Mamon’s other baked goods. Eat them and float in the air. My Mamon’s main bakery is in Silom’s Soi Lalaysap. There are shops in Ari’s Villa Market and Hong Kong Plaza on Narathiwas. They can be reached at 081-399-9345 and www.my-mamon.com. Shei Sanchez is a full-time educator, some-time writer and photographer, gastro-fiend, and budding gardener. She teaches at a university in Bangkok and can be contacted at orangesimple@gmail.com.
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BANGKOK BUSINESS BRIEF February 2012
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BUSINESS BRIEF
Vol. No. 1, Issue No. 3
February 2012
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Forecasting Thailand’s Economic Growth in 2012 By Dean Outerson
After a disastrous year for the Thai economy, forecasts for Thailand’s 2012 GDP growth are currently hovering between 4.7% and 5%, figures described by some as ‘conservative’ and others as ‘optimistic.’ Both sides agree that any growth will depend heavily on the successful implementation of the
economic stimulus packages proURGENT! British posed by the government, restoraexpats see Page 20 tion of investor confidence, and NOW! the absence of any serious global economic or monetary shocks or nomic stimulus package and a further domestic disasters. 350 billion baht (US$11 billion) investment in water management Skeptics of the government’s plans initiatives to prevent future floods, to right Thailand’s economic ship in the face of Thailand’s current question the wisdom of the 120 debt. The government’s recent Story continues on Page 20. billion baht (US$3.7 billion) eco-
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