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May 2012 06 INSIGHT News, letters, monthly planner, and more 17 ASIATIQUE The spectacular riverside shopping mall is now open. Read all about it here. 32 SCHOOL REPORT A round up of news from Bangkok’s best international schools 39 EXPAT WOMEN A brand new section, just for the girls. Flip to Ask the Experts ro read why one man is trying to get his wife back 51 GOURMET A round up of all the best restaurant deals and gourmet events in Bangkok 80 THAILAND’S LEGAL MAZE Advice from a Bangkok lawyer 85 WHAT’S ON Exhibitions, performance, sport, networking – we’ve got this month’s best events all wrapped up 97 SOCIAL Last month’s best events in pictures 113 NEW SECTION: DIPLOMATS Everything you need to know about the Malaysian Ambassador 120 MOTORING We test drive two two-door beauties from BMW 125 TRAVEL Deals and news from Thailand’s hottest destinations
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Political lessons for Thailand POLITICS is a dirty business, full of hypocrisy and double dealing. And what happens elsewhere can offer Thailand useful and salutary lessons. Take the UK, where the opposition Labour party is castigating the Tory-led coalition government over its spending cuts. But the Conservatives and their junior partners, the Liberal Democrats, would argue that in order to correct an ailing economy, they have no choice but to make those cuts. They would also argue that the economy they inherited from the Labour Party two years ago was already in dire straits. Remember, in their final years as the government, Labor politicians borrowed heavily as a ploy to gain favour amongst voters ahead of the elections, not caring about the consequences. Add in their abject failure to control the banks, and the mess they left was indeed toxic. Now in opposition, Labour’s leaders sit back and lambaste the government for attempting to balance the nation’s books. Is there a lesson here for the people of Thailand? Certainly. To win support in the last election, the Pheu Thai Party made all kinds of rash promises that are currently costing the country billions of baht. Settling these debts will be delayed for as long as possible, of course, so as not to upset voters. But the day of reckoning will come and if the Democrats are eventually returned to power, Pheu Thai politicians will also take enormous delight in blasting them for any tough measures needed to shore up the country’s finances. Such is the dirty game of politics. And Thai voters should be aware of it.
For youngsters, does more equal happiness? BUILDING a future is becoming increasingly tough for young people who live in Bangkok. Jobs for the majority of youngsters here are not only hard to find and often located a long way from home, but they’re also not particularly well paid. Much of their salary goes on accommodation, travel, food and family obligations. And paying off credit cards. Home ownership is encouraged as a long-term investment and a way of avoiding escalating rents. Often couples use their joint salary to raise a mortgage, only to find later they cannot afford to start a family on a single wage packet. By most measures, today’s youngsters are better off than their predecessors. They have more money, more cars, more high-tech gadgets, more choice and more freedom. In fact, they have more of everything. But are they happier? Is the quality of life better? What kind of future can they look forward to in this increasingly busy and expensive city? How many will be in a position to build the next generation? These are questions the country’s leaders need to answer.
Thaksin’s excuse for a comeback EVEN though he has frequently insisted he has no intention of returning to politics, many people believe Thaksin Shinawatra is not true to his word and will come back one day to head this nation. And if that happens, how will he explain the about-face? It’s odds-on he’ll simply say: “The people wanted me back.”
More misery for ‘cattle’ class flyers FLYING economy class – often called ‘cattle’ class for good reason – is not one of life’s great experiences. Readers of this magazine will know of our frequent criticism of economy class seats (unnecessarily uncomfortable), leg and elbow room (insufficient), seating arrangement (who needs to be three seats away from the aisle?), meals, questionable ventilation and so on. Well, things are about to get worse, for Malaysian Airlines recently became the first carrier to introduce a ban on children under 12 in certain areas of its aircraft, which will in effect force them to join the huddled masses in the main economy class. Other airlines, including British Airways, are said to be considering a similar policy. Of course youngsters are entitled like anyone else to fly, but most passengers would prefer to be seated as far as possible from them. This ban on children clearly favours affluent flyers while penalizing ‘the back end’ of the aircraft and making life on board even more miserable. Of course we should perish any thoughts that it is merely another cynical attempt by the airlines to make the cheap seats so undesirable, passengers will be left with no choice but to upgrade to the more expensive parts of an aircraft, shouldn’t we?
Wrong over dire climate warnings A TOP environmental scientist who in the past made some of the most chilling predictions about the effect of climate change will have on this planet has changed his mind. Aged 92, Briton James Lovelock now says his claims were ‘alarmist.’ He also reckons that other commentators, such as former vice president Al Gore, are similarly guilty of exaggerating their arguments. Anybody out there remember when scientists were telling us coffee and tea were bad for us?
Police absence on the expressways AS many as ten police officers man a checkpoint most mid-mornings on Sukhumvit. They seem to target mainly motorcyclists and trucks – buses and minivans breeze through. Inevitably, traffic is held up. The police presence here is well known and anyone who has something to hide will naturally take another route. While it’s good to see the police in action, keeping our streets safe, it also begs one crucial question: why are these officers rarely on the nation’s expressways, day or night? For it is here that some of the worst driving excesses are committed, as yet another fatal three-car collision on the Don Muang tollway showed recently. The speedometer of the Porsche involved was stuck at 280 km/h – way, way over the speed limit. These stupid racers – and there’s plenty of them, including bus and minivans drivers – are an absolute menace. But the sight of a police officer with the equipment to automatically test a driver’s speed would curtail their crazy activities.
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Publisher Colin Hastings colin1066@hotmail.com MANAGING Editor Adam Purcell adambigchilli@gmail.com Editor Nina Hastings ninabigchilli@gmail.com Associate Editor Narumol Trachoo aombigchilli@gmail.com Sales & Marketing Manager Rojjana Rungrattwatchai sendtorose@gmail.com Account Executive Thana Pongsaskulchoti thanabigchilli@gmail.com Accounting Manager Saranya Choeyjanya fatcatbigchilli@gmail.com Art & Production Arthawit Pundrikapa, Jaran Lakawat Photography Mini Bike Gang and WJ Contributing Writers Anette Pollner, Johanna DeKoning, Maxmilian Wechsler, Paul Hewitt
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We are now on Twitter. Find out what’s happening around town, which events to attend, parties to be seen at, and read all the juicy gossip! Follow us at ‘TheBigChilliMag’ No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without prior written permission from The BigChilli Co., Ltd. The opinions and views of the writers are not necessarily the views of the publishers. All details are deemed correct at the time of print, the publisher, the editor, employees and contributors can not be held responsible for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may occur. The editor reserves the right to accept, reject or amend any submitted artwork, photographs, illustrations and manuscripts. The BigChilli welcomes unsolicited contributions but assumes no responsibility for the safe-keeping or return of such materials damaged or lost in transit.
The BigChilli Company Ltd., 1/7 5th Fl. Room 504, Siboonrueng Bldg. 2, Convent Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: 02 233 1774-6, 02 266 7141 Fax: 02 235 0174 e-mail: thebigchillimagazine@gmail.com AD Amontre_May11.indd 1
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INSIGHT INBOX
letters It’s your
LETTER OF THE MONTH
HISTORY’S HISTORY IN TODAY’S WORLD
■ I READ your article-cum-book review of Jim Thompson and agreed with the writer’s view that many Thais have little or no idea of their country’s history. Ask a typical 20-yearold here about the bloodthirsty coups that rocked the country in the 1970s and invariably you will get a blank stare. It is a sad reflection of both the education system here and, honestly, a general lack of interest in Thailand’s past. But the same applies elsewhere too. Ask a young Briton about his or her country’s history, other than the Second World War, which will produce a comic book version of that conflict, and you’ll probably get the same vacant response. So don’t knock Thailand alone. Kids today are simply not taught to be interested in history. James Fewtrell, Bangkok
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SPY GADGETS FOILED
■ AT first glance, I wanted to buy one of those ties equipped with a secret camera you mention in the story about James Bond gadgets being available on the streets of Bangkok. I thought it’d be useful next time I’m stopped by the cops. But come to think of it, you couldn’t identify any cop asking for money nowadays because their faces are wrapped in white cloth and their eyes are covered by sunglasses, so they all look the same. Waste of space. Luke, Bangkok
OFFICE SNOOPS ■ THE story
about James Bond gadgets on the streets of Bangkok in your April issue was a fascinating read. It really hits home just how anything and everything really can be bought in Thailand. I’d be interested to know what charges are brought against people who are caught spying, though. After all, a lot of this spy equipment is used in offices where employers ‘spy’ on their staff without their consent or knowledge. This is illegal, but, sadly, it does happen, and it seems little can be done about it. N.A, Nonthaburi
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TOP NAMES OUT OF THE PICTURE ■ HI BigChilli. I just saw the event pictures in the magazine. The St. Patrick’s Ball pictures look great, but not quite sure how the pictures have been selected because important people who sat at the top table aren’t featured, such as the Deputy Head of Mission of both the British Embassy in BKK and the Irish Embassy in KL and the St. Andrew’s Chieftain. (The president of St. George’s, St. Patrick’s and St. David’s were selected. St. Andrew’s ex-chieftain picture was too, but he was the chieftain five years ago). Perhaps more homework next time for the selectors/photographer? Avid reader, Bangkok
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Have you seen or heard something interesting/strange/weird in Bangkok that you just have to share? Have an opinion/rant/rave that you want to see in print? Write to us and you could win a 1,000 baht voucher from food delivery service Food by Phone! To win, simply write what we reckon to be the best letter of the month, and we’ll send you a voucher. Write to us at: thebigchillimagazine@gmail.com Deadline for April issue is March 21. For more info about Food by Phone and its partner restaurants see: www.foodbyphone.com
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INSIGHT NEWS
Publisher’s Blog
Abhisit’s charm offensive wins over the reporters ■ YOU have to hand it to Abhisit Vejjajiva. He’s a very smooth operator. At his recent address to the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand he had a packed audience mesmerised with his friendly, chatty and laid-back manner. The ladies were charmed, of course, and clamored for a photo with this still dashing and handsome 48-year-old ex-premier. His speech was, of course, serious enough, with some harsh words for the government over its agricultural policies which, he insists, are costing the country a fortune. Abhisit also expressed delight but some surprise over his Democrat Party’s largely unexpected triumph in the Pathum Thani by election, even though the success was tempered by a low voter turn-out. That easy-going manner of this Eton and Oxford-educated politician elicited plenty of chuckles, but the laugh of the night came from veteran expatriate Chris Bruton of Dataconsult, who spoke of his tremendous admiration for Abhisit and said he’d make a great prime minister for “our”
country, adding ruefully that he was speaking as a British national. On being given a copy of the BigChilli at the end of the night, Abhisit asked light-heartedly why we were featuring baked beans on the front cover of a magazine that features a Thai chilli as part of its logo. Given his very British upbringing, demeanor and love of Premier League team Newcastle, that was a bit of surprise since Abhisit himself is a great example of cultural overlap. Next time I bump into him during Sunday lunch at the Londoner pub, I’ll remind him.
Boots’ Italian owner comes to Bangkok
■ THE good people from Boots flew into town from Europe recently to celebrate the opening of the company’s 200th store in Thailand. Since opening the first outlet here in 1997, Alliance Boots – to give its proper name – has expanded significantly and now employs over 1,400 people, including more than 330 registered pharmacists. Of the 2,500 branded Boots products, 1,000 are locally sourced and manufactured in Thailand. It’s clearly a major success story that will continue in Thailand, the first country selected by Boots for expansion into Asia. New shops are planned in several new destinations here, explained Alex Gourlay, Alliance Boots’ Chief Executive, Health& Beauty Division,
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without specifying where. Currently, you’ll find Boots stores in 29 of the 77 provinces in Thailand. Like most Brits, I’ve always viewed Boots as a quintessentially British store. In fact, it was sold in 2007 for 12 million pounds to a group headed by the Italian pharmacy king Stefano Pessina, who was amongst the delegation to Bangkok. Although its headquarters remain in Nottingham, the English city where it was founded more than 160 years ago, its registered office is in Zug in Switzerland. This allows the company to enjoy enormous tax benefits, or so it is claimed. As a result, Boots and a number of other ‘British’ businesses have become the target of furious campaigners in the UK who allege they are shuffling their business bases around the world in order to avoid paying much heftier tax in Britain. But it’s not all bad news for Boots. When asked what she loved about living in England, Hollywood star Gwyneth Paltrow was unequivocal – Boots the Chemist. In a recent interview the 39-year-old said: “Boots is almost as ubiquitous as the pub here in England. Everyone raves about Boots’ own line No7 and their range of high quality cosmetics, moisturizers and cleansers.”
TheBigChilli
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INSIGHT NEWS
Publisher’s Blog
Land grab on new mass transit routes
■ WITH the new Purple and Blue Line mass transit extensions set to open in 2015, developers are wasting no time buying up nearby land to cash in on the expected housing boom in these areas of Bangkok. Property firms say that when the two Mass Rapid Transport Authority’s rail routes are completed, demand for homes will increase, especially near the interchange between the Purple and Blue lines, since they will offer easy travel from Bangkok’s suburbs to the city’s central business districts. The price of condominiums near existing interchange stations, such as Siam, increased from 100,000 baht sq m to 170,000 baht sq m between 2009-2011. Condos near Sala Daeng station rose from 124,000 baht sq m to9 250,000 baht sq m during the same two-year period, say property developers. The MRT Purple Line will run from Bang Sue to Bang Yai, while the Blue Line extension links Bang Sue to Tha Phra.
Nothing but admiration for Singapore
■ SINGAPORE never stops reinventing itself. Eight years have passed since my last trip, and almost 38 years since my first-ever visit, and once again I was amazed by the continuing transformation from almost empty tropical island to arguably the world’s most advanced city state. That man Lee Kuan Yew has got a lot to answer for – mostly good, it has to be said. Gaze across the man-made harbor at the colossal Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort, opened for less than two years and already an iconic part of the Singapore skyline, and you can only be consumed with admiration for what Mr Lee and his colleagues have created from so little. If only Thailand, which has so much in comparison, could take a leaf or two out of their book. Today’s Singapore is impressive. It’s clean, green and efficient – well, almost. A couple of recent rare failures on its mass transit rail system have got locals tut-tutting in disgust. Have they forgotten the numerous buses that ply half-empty roads? They’re a great alternative. The nightlife sizzles. Great chillout bars, world-class restaurants and chic nightclubs abound. With every brand name you can think of available on Orchard Road, shopping is a dream. Since becoming a venue for F1 racing, boy racers flock to Singapore, where they can hire Ferraris and Lamborghinis and follow the circuit, regularly breaking the speed limit and frightening the living daylight’s out of people unaccustomed to such noisy activities. Despite the plaudits for Marina Bay Sands, my favorite building is the slightly strange and foreboding Park View Square, designed in the classic Art Deco style, clad in brown granite and towering magnificently over Bugis Street. The three-storey high lobby and bar are breathtaking both in opulence and sheer wackiness. Most of my weekend, however, was taken with playing cricket on the Padang, so I had only a few opportunities to enjoy the newlook Singapore. Next time I’ll stay a week. It deserves longer.
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Faster visas to the UK, but expect higher fees
■ WITH the number of Thais planning a visit to the UK during the year of the Queen’s Jubilee and Olympics on a steep increase – about 16% compared to the same period last year – the UK has introduced a ‘fast track’ visa service which aims to turn around an application in three days. The new priority service costs 3,000 baht and is paid on top of normal visa fees. (See below). The UK Border Agency also recently launched a Prime Time appointment service, which allows Thais to lodge their application on Saturdays. The cost of this service is an additional 1,500 baht. Prime Time appointments must be made online. And customers can also collect their documents between 9am and 12 noon on Saturdays at no charge. If an applicant utilized both these newly introduced services, the total cost of a visa to the UK valid for six months would amount to 8,400 baht. Basic cost of a visa to the UK (excluding the new services above): • Short-term visit (up to six months, single or multiple entry) 3,900 baht approx. • Long term visit (up to 2 years) 13,500 baht approx. • Long term visit (up to 5 years) 24,800 baht approx. • Long term-term visit (up to 10 years) 34,800 baht approx. For more information on the new premium and priority services visit the (www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/thailand).
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INSIGHT NEWS
My View
Thailand’s huge drinking problem On a recent visit to the kingdom, a foreign expert is shocked by the amount of alcohol consumed here and the baffling tax system that is widely ignored
■ THAILAND, I believe, has a drinking problem and an even bigger problem dealing with the realities of the alcohol business. Let me put this in perspective… Thailand has three of the top 100 selling brands BY VOLUME in the world - not per capita. Ruang Kao is the world’s #2 top selling spirit with over 30 million 9L cases sold in 2010 (Jinro of South Korea is #1 with 67 million 9L cases). This is more than world-wide sales of Smirnoff, Johnnie Walker, Bacardi and many of the other well known brands. In fact, three of the top 100 spirits on this list for the year ending 2010 are sold only in Thailand (Ruang Kao #2, Hong Tong #28 and Blend 285 #42). But this is just the tip of the iceberg when you consider the entire production of locally and industrially produced
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lao cao that’s distilled here but not branded, taxed or labeled. In short, Thailand is #5, per capita, in the world for the consumption of whiskey. And yet, its taxation is amongst the highest anywhere. Productivity, domestic violence, unwanted pregnancies and a host of so many other social ills are directly attributable to the issue of over consumption of alcohol, and yet the response is laughable… four days a year (plus elections) where legitimate businesses respect the days and stop selling alcohol. No legitimate alcohol sales between 2pm-5pm unless you buy 10 liters or more so that it constitutes a “wholesale sale” (still don’t understand this). Moreover, there is no advertising the actual brand (“Keep On Walking” “H”, “Green Space” etc… but no mention of the actual brand), no free gifts with purchase, discounting or any other traditional means of promotion, and yet sales grow. Everyone else (non-legitimate businesses) continue as if there are no laws. Taxes have increased, and so has consumption. Some local beers actually enjoy a lower taxation rate due to the fact that they are considered “economy beers” and therefore have to be more affordable for people on lower income. Of course, it’s very considerate of the authorities to make some beers cheaper so poor people can drink more. Smuggling is rampant for imported whiskey (allegedly some 500,000 9L cases per year of JW Black alone) and wine. How much Penfolds wine finds its way into Thailand via Malaysia is incalculable. It’s clear that many wine wholesalers with “connections” fail to pay any taxes at all on their wines, and thus create massive disparity in the market from those actually paying taxes. Nobody ever gets caught because this would be politically inconvenient since large quantities of the non-taxed wines apparently find their way to important people who enjoy the benefits. Besides, nobody is ever caught/ prosecuted in Thailand, unless your illegal business conflicts with somebody else’s illegal business and they have more power than you. Even when free-trade agreements are in place to lower the taxes on wine, they are wildly violated by the Excise Department, which does not recognize any of these agreements. In fact, it has been shown that some free-trade agreements covering wine, beer and spirits, which are designed to lower costs to consumers, have actually driven up prices. None of this is illegal business, nor the justification for imposing the highest taxation on wine in the world will change as there is too much money at stake benefitting from the gaps and practices in the system. Sadly, the will to change has to come from the industry and the government to provide education for the responsible use of alcohol. In the meantime, one member of the Health Ministry reckons “Thailand is a Buddhist country and Buddhists do not drink alcohol and therefore, there is no point discussing this.” - CRH.
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Banking flexibility
■ LIKE many others here, an Australian on a retirement visa who had banked with HSBC for many years was somewhat taken aback to be told recently that the bank was closing its retail services in Thailand and would be transferring his business, if he so wished, to a local bank. Other than a bit of time-wasting, the fellow wasn’t overly bothered by the switch of banks – provided he had access to the same services. It quickly followed, however, that this would not be the case as he was duly informed that he would not be able to settle his monthly payment by direct debit since this new bank does not offer its customers such a facility. The only way he could pay his bills henceforth was by cheque. So, off the Australian went to the bank to apply for a cheque book. This caused its staff some consternation, however, as a foreigner on a retirement visa is evidently not allowed to hold a cheque book, the bank told him. But, spluttered the man, how else can I pay my bills? Eventually, the impasse was solved when the man disclosed the number of years he had been living in Thailand and, more importantly, how much money passed through his account every month. After some whispered chat behind the desk, the bank clerk returned to him with a smile – and a cheque book.
Shocking arrest on Sukhumvit
■ A FORMER foreign resident of Thailand who had always considered himself street-wise in Bangkok got a nasty shock during a recent return visit to the city when a couple of policeman approached him at the top of Sukhumvit 12 and accused him of taking drugs. “It was early evening and the sidewalk was full of people, so I was extremely shocked,” said the slightly-built European. “Especially as I have never taken drugs in my life.” After strenuously rejecting the claims, the fellow was asked for his passport (all foreigners are by law required to carry this document), but all he could produce was a photocopy. On this point, and facing further accusations of drug-taking, he was arrested. In the melee that followed, he was thrown to the ground, smashed his head against the stonework, and handcuffed from behind. “The police claimed handcuffing was necessary because I had resisted arrest,” explained the visitor. “In the taxi to the police station, the officers kept telling me I was a bad man and would go to prison for taking drugs – even though I had nothing incriminating on me.” At the station, he was able to contact a friend, who in turn called the fellow’s embassy for assistance. Eventually he received a call from an official in his home country’s foreign ministry, to whom he related his arrest. By now, another friend – a prominent Thai national – had arrived at the station and was able to convince the officers that the man was a decent sort who would never take drugs. This coincided with the results of an earlier drug test – which proved negative. After almost two hours, with their tone softening to the point where they were actually applying medicine to his bleeding forehead, the officers released the foreigner. Back at his hotel on Sukhumvit 18 and still shaken from the experience, the 40-year-old foreigner had no rationale explanation for what had happened or why the police had singled him out – “unless it was because I walk very fast and have dark rings under my eyes, which I’ve always had.” He was curious, however, why he was taken to a station that is not responsible for this area of Bangkok. “I can only think the police officers followed me from the hotel, which does come under the jurisdiction of that particular station,” he said.
Hotel sell-off
■ TOURISM, we are told, is booming in Bangkok. So why is it, then, that two hotels on Sukhumvit are for sale?
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INSIGHT NEWS The BigChilli recently conducted a survey based on a return flight Bangkok to Singapore, departing on April 25 and returning April 27. The Internet booking was made on April 24. Our findings are as follows:
BIGCHILLI SURVEY: FLIGHTS TO SINGAPORE
AIR ASIA • Basic cost of return flight: 11,600 baht, including taxes and airport charges. Additional charges: • Check-in baggage (up to 20kg) 750 baht (350 baht + 350 baht) • Meal on board (2 meals) 198 baht • Reserve standard seat fee* (65 baht + 65 baht) 130 baht • Travel insurance 258 baht • Total cost: 12,886 baht *Hot Seat fee* (350 baht + 350 baht) 700 baht (To be fair, Air Asia could justifiably claim that its flights are more frequent and offer better times than, say, Cathay Pacific. But THAI and SIA have more flights per day).
Budget airlines may not be the best low cost option ■ THANKS to the Internet, booking a flight from Bangkok to Singapore has never been easier. And thanks to low-cost carriers like Air Asia, it’s never been cheaper. Or so you’d think. The reality is far more complex, and surprising, with the final price of a ticket dependent on a number of factors, especially the actual date of booking. What’s more, Air Asia’s claim to be a budget airline appears somewhat hollow when its ‘extras’ are factored in. Indeed, the so-called ‘regular’ airlines are often cheaper.
THAI AIRWAYS INTERNATIONAL • Basic cost of return flight: 20,440 baht*, including taxes and airport charges, meals etc *If booked one month in advance, the ticket price is 12,425 baht SINGAPORE AIRLINES • Basic cost of return flight: 12,300 baht, including taxes and airport charges, meals etc CATHAY PACIFIC • Basic cost of return flight: 12,550 baht, including taxes and airport charges, meals etc.
Hot Gossip
Foreigners who cross the love line ■ A COUPLE of Thailand-based expats might do well to take note if recent news reports turn out to be true that a powerful Chinese politician is behind the murder of a British businessman in China after apparently discovering that the fellow was having an affair with his wife. For this pair of foreigners have also dared to cross the line and enjoyed relations with the girlfriends of some extremely influential Thais. Until recently, one was having an affair with the ‘minor wife’ of a high profile Thai politician, while the other was on intimate terms with the girlfriend of a dangerous Pattaya gangster.
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The first fellow was completely aware of the status of the man he was cuckolding but carried on regardless. The second, meanwhile, was blissfully ignorant of his squeeze’s other ‘arrangement.’ Some of his Thai friends knew of the dangers he was courting but were too afraid to warn him. Both of these expats are currently out of Thailand. The murdered Brit was married father-of-two Neil Heywood. He had told friends he feared for his life after top Communist Party official Bo Xilai learned of the alleged fling with his wife, Gu Kailai.
TheBigChilli
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INSIGHT SHOPPING
N theeswc on ene
ASIATIQUE THE RIVERFRONT Spectacular new mall offers shopping, drinking, and dining on the banks of the Chao Phraya River
WHEN it comes to waterfront revelry, Bangkok has never been able to compete with the likes of Singapore’s vibrant Clarke Quay and Hong Kong’s sweeping Stanley Bay. Sure, we’ve always had a great selection of riverside bars and restaurants at the five-star hotels to choose from, but they’re spread too far apart for us to easily hop between them. What we’ve craved, and what the city has always needed, is one riverside destination which brings together an amalgam of shops, bars, and restaurants. And with ASIATIQUE THE RIVERFRONT, we’ve finally got it. Officially opened last month on Charoenkrung Road, this huge open-air shopping mall on the banks of the Chao Phraya is bursting with character and has a similar vibe to that much missed former outdoor shopping favourite, Suan Lum Night Bazaar. Reflecting the area’s rich heritage – the site of the mall was a bustling trade center during the reign of King Rama V (18681910) – Asiatique has been designed to a ‘Festival Market and Living Museum’ concept. This means many of the shops, bars and restaurants feature mock late 19th century architecture, and there’s lots of oldy-worldy memorabilia dotted around for photo ops. Depending on your shopping, drinking or dining needs, Asiatique has four different zones to choose from.
• The Charoenkrung District features over 1,000 boutique shops selling Thai handicrafts, souvenirs and home decorative items. You can also watch a ladyboy cabaret show at Calypso Bangkok, or a traditional Thai puppet show at the Joe Louis Puppet Theatre. • Town Square District has a selection of eateries serving Eastern and Western cuisines. You can also beat back your shopping induced thirst with a few drinks in the beer garden. • Factory District is a magnet for the hip and trendy and features over 500 shops selling fashionable clothes and accessories of all descriptions. • Waterfront District, our favourite aspect of the project, is located riverside. Not only is there a selection of fine dining restaurants and wine bars on the riverbank, but there’s also a 300metre boardwalk lined with shops. Asiatique is open daily from 5pm till Midnight. For more info visit: www. asiatiquethailand.com www.facebook.com/asiatique.thailand
HOW TO GET THERE • • •
BTS: Free shuttle boat is provided from the pier at Saphan Taksin BTS Station (Sathorn pier) ASIATIQUE THE RIVERFRONT BRT: Nearest station is Rama III. From here ASIATIQUE’S just a short taxi ride away 2194 Charoenkrung Road, Car: Directions can be found on ASIATIQUE’S website. Plenty of parking space is available (opposite to Charoenkrung 93) TheBigChilli
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Green advice on old computers makes no sense
S
OMETIMES you have to wonder about the logic of the green movement. Just the other day, a local radio station was handing out tips about how to save energy, including the need to get rid of old computers because they consume too much electricity. In their place, we should be buying high-tech flat screen comps because they are more energy-efficient. Now, there are three things here that need to be considered. First, of course, is the cost. A flat screen computer is not cheap. So for many people, chucking out the old one is not an option.
Second, people who make these energy-saving suggestions never take into account the energy that is used up in manufacturing all these new appliances, such as their basic raw materials, factory and plant costs, transportation, marketing and sales. These mount up very quickly. Thirdly, and most ironically, what often happens to these discarded computers is that they are shipped off to the Third World for use in impoverished schools which can barely afford the electricity to run them. Have the Greenies ever thought of this?
WATER WOES
High and dry RESIDENTS on Sukhumvit 81 are no doubt pleased the authorities have recently raised the level of the Soi. It won’t flood anymore. The water will simply run off into the side streets. But one person’s dry patch is someone else’s potential flood. Ask the people who live on the many side streets on Soi 81.
ODD LOGIC
SHRINKING EMBASSY
UK’s disappearing trick on Ploenchit ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT?
Royal Hotel’s unique position being overlooked
A
SIDE from the Oriental, few of Bangkok’s hotels can claim to have some kind of history behind them. An exception is the Royal Hotel, which enjoys a superb location on the corner of the revamped Sanam Luang, making it extremely convenient for the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew and Khao San Road. Admittedly its history is more infamous than famous, having been the scene of some brutal behavior by government troops in the 1992 crackdown on student activists. And immediately outside, Rajdamnern Avenue has seen numerous
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important events, both good and bad, over the decades. But there’s no getting away from the Royal Hotel’s unique role in this nation’s history. However, according to most recent reviews, it is now rather run-down and in desperate need of wholesale redecoration. In other words, a takeover by a major international hotel chain. On the other hand, with room rates hovering just above 1,000 baht a night, it remains a magnet for budget travelers who could not afford five-star prices to have access to one of Bangkok’s most fascinating tourist areas.
WITH the Central Embassy now taking shape on the corner of Wireless Road and Ploenchit, some Brits are probably reflecting on the wisdom of the UK government’s decision to sell off this prime piece of real estate. Of course, those Labour ministers in charge of the last government would argue the country needed the revenue more than it needed a large embassy compound in Thailand. Maybe. But it’s nevertheless sad to see the British embassy, once so prominent and majestic in this part of Bangkok, slowly disappear from sight behind a tower block. Moreover, its downsized physical presence comes at a time when Thailand, and the rest of Asia, is playing an ever-bigger role in the world’s economy.
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No wonder we’re falling out of love with travel
GLOBAL GRUMBLES
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ET’S face it, the magic of overseas travel is fading fast. Aside from myriad time-wasting preparations, bureaucracy and escalating costs, how many of us can honestly claim that the act of travel, getting from home to final destination, is still a comfortable or satisfying experience? The first hurdle is a passport. When these expire in Thailand, it can prove an expensive inconvenience. Some countries, such as Australia, now charge their nationals more than 11,000 baht for a new passport. Others, including the UK, can leave you in limbo land for weeks while you wait for a new one that eventually gets here via Hong Kong. Then there’s the question of visas.
Thais have to go through some truly gut-wrenching and expensive procedures to get a visa for most western countries. And if their application is turned down, the fees are not returned – and the whole process has to start again. Foreigners on long-term visas based in Thailand are required to apply for a re-entry visa before leaving the kingdom. Although usually hassle-free, other than a bit more time wasting, the cost is not inconsiderable. Finally, it’s off to the airport. Once, flying was a thrilling experience to be savored and told to envious friends. Not anymore. Apart from super efficient Singapore, today’s airports are miserable, overcrowded, money-grabbing entities. Checking in always takes forever; immigration invariably means long queues and humorless officials. And when has a plane ever left on time? At Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport, some cynics suggest the notable shortage of seats is deliberately designed to force passengers into shops that do not live up to their billing as “duty-free” or restaurants selling overpriced meals. The cynics are probably right. Then there are the aircraft. It’s amazing how spacious and luxurious they look in advertisements paid for by aircraft
FROZEN PLANET
manufacturers or airlines. That’s because the cabins featured are empty, or filmed in the first class section, the cost of which is way above most of us. The reality is very different, once several hundred passengers and their bags are squeezed into the plane. Taking your seat in the middle seat in the middle row, you realise you’ve been suckered by those glossy promotions showing happy passengers with lots of leg and elbow room, attended by happy cabin staff. It’s all an illusion. Budget airlines have mastered the art of packing in the maximum number of passengers. Apart from an unhealthy lack of individual space, the tiny seats recline – if you’re lucky – just an inch or two. And don’t even think about free meals and drinks – you pay for them. You also pay extra for pre-booked seats, insurance and even the shuttle bus taking you to the aircraft. How mean is that? Surely it’s only a matter of time before Asia’s low cost carriers follow their western counterparts and charge for the use of toilets. One day we may even have passengers standing bolt upright for the duration of a flight. Oh, the joys of travel. No wonder more people are staying at home for their holidays.
Glaciers can grow, you know THE global warming lobby is facing a setback after photos taken by a French satellite show that glaciers in a mountain range west of the Himalayas have actually increased in size during the last decade. The growing glaciers are located in the Karakoram range, which borders Pakistan, India and China. This news will support the idea that the world’s climate IS changing but not necessarily warming (except, of course, in large cemented-over urban areas). And these changes could be down to such things as more, or perhaps less, levels of solar activity. After all, we surely cannot expect the sun’s energy output to be absolutely constant.
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INSIGHT NEWS
Talking
Shop Hot products and stores demanding your attention
RETRO COOL FRIDGES ■ HAFELE’S Retro Funky Fridge Collection is bursting with colours which bring to mind the neon-coloured ice-pops we used to slurp as kids. Lime green, raspberry pink, juicy orange, and champagne – there’s something to brighten up any kitchen. And if your colour tastes are more subdued, there’s always classic tones like black and grey to choose from. Designed to have a sleek vintage look, each refrigerator in the collection features a classic single door and has three adjustable shelves, plus six compact glass shelves on the door. Each fridge has an A+ energy saving system, and retails for B53,900. The collection is available at the Hafele Showroom on Sukhumvit 64 and at leading department stores. For more info: Tel: 02 741 7171 www.hafele.com/th/en
OUTDOOR LIVING ■ SWEDISH furniture and home accessories store IKEA is capitalizing on the summer season by offering a new range of outdoor furniture for patios, lawns, sundecks, and balconies. Highlights include Roxö steel tables, which are available in pink and yellow; Högsten chairs, which are made of hand-woven plastic rattan; and Sunderö armchairs, which are made of pine and stained grey. For more info: Tel: 02 708 7999 www.ikea.com/th/en
CHANINTR LIVING OPENS THREE NEW SHOWROOMS ■ LUXURY home furnishing and furniture retailer ‘Chanintr Living’ has opened three new showrooms at Noble Solo on Soi Thonglor. The new showrooms include ‘Bulthaup,’ the only kitchen brand in Chanintr Living; ‘Minotti,’ featuring luxury Italianmade furniture; and ‘Craft,’ a two-level store packed with many home furnishing items from brands such as Charles and Ray Eames, Fritz Hansen, Carl Hansen & Sons, Ethnicraft, Emeco and Libeco. All the new showrooms are interconnected so wandering between them is a breeze. Noble Solo Thonglor, Sukhumvit 55, Tel: 02 714 9040 www.chanintrliving.com
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MOBILE WET? NO SWEAT ■ EVER wanted to amaze your mates by submerging your smartphone in a glass of water before taking it out to show them that it still works? Thanks to NEC Casio, you can – well, if you buy its new Medias Smartphone, that is. Making its Thailand debut last month, this nifty new gadget made a splash both literally and figuratively when two pretties demonstrated how you could pour water onto it without sending it to mobile heaven. Sure it’s gimmicky, but if you have regular sweaty workouts with your phone strapped to your arm, or are prone to accidentally leaving your phone in your pocket when you go for a swim, this might just be the mobile for you. The mobile uses the Android operating system and features a 4” touch screen. At time of writing prices weren’t set, but by the time you’re reading this they should be posted on www.sisthai.com. www.sisthai.com www.nec-casio-mobile.com
TIME FOR VELVET ■ TOYWATCH’S new watch model ‘Velvety’ has been specially designed to feel like an ‘extension of the watch wearer’s skin.’ This might sound a tad creepy, but it’s not – it just means that the watch is light and comfortable to wear, and has a matt
finish giving it a nice velvety feel. The watch is available in black, white, platinum grey, blue, and red. The watch retails in department stores for B9,600, and at time of writing it was available on the brand’s website for B7,600. Available now at all ToyWatch counters at leading department stores including Siam Paragon, Central Chidlom, and Central World. Tel: 02 655 1575-6 toywatchthailand.com
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CHIROMED CHIROPRACTIC AND PHYSICAL MEDICINE
THE NON-SURGICAL SOLUTION TO NECK AND BACK PAIN Certified Chiropractor Dr. Montanat Rojanasrirat CHIROMED Medical Centre is a non-operative clinic specializing in Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT) integrated with rehabilitation medicine, physical therapy, therapeutic massage and physical capacity improvement for a unique structural rehabilitation. Treatments at Chiromed are specifically designed for each individual and conducted by a team of physicians. Chiromed Clinic provides individual care for athletic spinal injuries at every level
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Finally, a Bangkok clinic that offers specialist therapies and care for physical ailments arising from the stresses associated with modern living of recovery, with innovative treatments in physical balancing and effective functioning. The treatments emphasize muscle, joint, tissue and spine therapy.
• Spinal cord stress • Osteoarthritis • Degenerative Disc Disease • Ligament weakness • Sciatic pain • Herniated Nucleus Pulposus
physical performance for patients with athletic injuries
Chiromed services offer a range of therapies to restore your health and reduce bone affection. The most common symptoms are the following:
Physical Medicine
• To facilitate and promote physical performance for patients with obesity
Integrated Chiropractic • Back pain / neck pain • Stress / Migraine • Office syndrome • Muscle tension
• To facilitate and promote physical performance for patients with diabetes
• To facilitate and promote physical performance for patients with high cholesterol
Chiromed Bangkok Center, 3rd Floor, Bangkok Mediplex Building (BTS Ekamai), • To facilitate and promote physical performance for patients Sukhumvit 42 Road, Bangkok Tel: 02 713 6745-6 with high blood pressure wwwchiromedbangkok.com • To facilitate and promote www.facebook.com/chiromedbangkok
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TRAVEL REVIEW
MERCURE KRABI DEEVANA Get back to nature in style at this wonderful resort near Krabiʼs Ao Nang Beach
WITH its stunning national parks, tropical islands, and adventurous activities ranging from rock climbing and trekking and diving to yachting, Krabi province is a shining jewel in the kingdom’s tourism crown. Over the past few years numerous resorts have been opening along and near its pristine beaches, and one of the latest to open its doors is the four-star Mercure Krabi Deevana. Located a short walk from Ao Nang
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Beach, the resort offers chic and luxurious accommodation in contemporary low-rise buildings and features exceptional restaurants and bars, a large lagoonstyle outdoor swimming pool, a heavenly spa, and outstanding meetings and events facilities. Guests can select from 213 stylish rooms and suites which all come kitted out with the latest mod-cons, and where gracious and personalized service come as standard.
The resort is close to Krabi’s beautiful islands and beaches, as well as seafood restaurants, fascinating local markets, vibrant bars, and much more; everything in fact for a truly memorable holiday Restaurants & Bars or rewarding business trip in one of Thailand’s Kingfisher Restaurant: most inspiring and Delectable cuisine and scenic destinations. attentive service ensure a delightful dining experience. Here, guests can dine in style and discover culinary tastes and traditions from around the world.
Swan Spa: Experience the sublime pleasures of traditional Thai massage, aromatherapy and herbal treatments.
Conveniently located a 30 minute drive from Krabi International Airport, 2 hours from Phuket International Airport and 20 minutes from Krabi Town, the Starling Bar: The Mercure Krabi Deevana perfect place to take is the ideal choice for time out with family and leisure guests, as well as friends and enjoy drinks corporate meetings and and snacks, day or night. incentive travellers. Live music adds extra sparkle in the evenings. For more info Tel: 075 639 999 Sun Bird Bar: Enjoy email: h7539@accor.com www.mercurekrabideevana.com ice-cold beers, soft drinks and a selection of coffees, teas and enticing light bites.
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PROPERTY PATTAYA ICON
Waterfront Suites and Residences Bali Hai Pattaya Tulip Group and Park Plaza Hotels join forces to create what’s sure to be a true Pattaya icon THE Waterfront Suites and Residences Condominium and Hotel project, a joint venture by Tulip Group and Park Plaza Hotels, is probably one of the most exciting projects ever to be launched in Pattaya. But it’s still had its fair amount
available in Pattaya that can compare to this project’s location. It offers simply of “knockers” and an air of Europe purchased the site from stunning, direct ocean front negativity surrounding it the previous owners and quickly living, just minutes from – mainly due the fact that started breathing new life in walking street, and once the project never actually got to the project. First, and most completed it will overlook off the ground when it was importantly, they decided to the brand new marina and launched around five years ago. refund all previous purchases recreational area which is But in July last year, Tulip and “wipe the slate clean.” currently under construction by Group and Park Plaza Hotels There aren’t many sites City Hall. Not to forget that it sits directly next to the famous neon “Pattaya” sign which will mean that when the project is complete it will probably be the most photographed building in Pattaya – a true icon. The structure will rise to 50 stories and will offer 300 world class condominium units and a 100 hotel rooms. Upon completion the project will be managed by Park Plaza Hotels Europe.
Park Plaza Hotels Limited 28
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Park Plaza Hotels in focus
and operates eight hotels and five apartment complexes with a total of 2,868 rooms. The jewel in the crown is owns, leases, develops, manages Park Plaza Westminster Bridge and franchises primarily full in London which has recently service four-star, four-star opened and is London’s largest deluxe and contemporary lifestyle hotels in major gateway hotel. Park Plaza is a true cities and regional centres powerhouse partner for Tulip primarily in Europe. Group, and its involvement The majority of the should give huge confidence Group’s hotels operate to potential buyers as to the under the Park Plaza Hotels security of the project. The & Resorts brand (part of sales figures certainly suggest Carlson), over which the buyer confidence, because in Group has exclusive rights in just four months over 200 56 countries in Europe, the rooms have already been sold Middle East and Africa, or – very impressive when you art’otel, a brand which Park Plaza fully owns. consider that there has been The Group currently has 25 very little marketing material Park Plaza hotels and art’otels, and no official launch party. with 5,508 rooms in operation. The project is now under Park Plaza also part owns construction and should be Arenaturist, one of Croatia’s complete by the end of 2014. leading hospitality companies, Due to the overwhelming
interest in the project, the developers actually launched it ahead of their chosen timeframe. “Our initial plan was to put everything in place as far as design and marketing before we offered the product to buyers,” says Tulip Group’s Vice President Jason Payne. “However, immediately after our press conference notifying the press of our takeover, we were inundated with enquiries from both agents and potential buyers showing huge interest in the project. “The interest was very exciting for us but also caught us off guard a little as we never planned on launching so quickly, in-fact we haven’t officially launched even as of today. But with a project of this scale and the fact that there isn’t, in my opinion, a project in the city that can compare with this,
it is understandable why there has been so much interest, even without a Model or Brochure buyers have snapped up a large amount of the project.” So there you have it, a project that is over 60% sold with no official launch – a remarkable achievement which just shows the power and interest this project has generated. They say location, location, location is what really sells, and there is no better project to justify this than The Waterfront Suites and Residences Condominium and Hotel. Waterfront Suites and Residences will officially be launched this month with a Gala Event in Bangkok. For further information visit the show suites on site near Bali Hai pier or visit: www.waterfrontpattaya.com
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INSIGHT CALENDAR
May planner
Networking, tradeshows, performances, and sport here’s the month ahead planned and charted Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
5 6 7 8 Rotary International Convention. May 6 – 9 at IMPACT. www.rotary. orgwww.ama-events.com
FA Cup Final
Sunday
Dream Theatre. Thunder Dome, Muang Thong Thani. See p.88. www.Thaiticketmajor.com
The Columbia Trail Masters 2012. Thanyapura Sports and Leisure Club, Phuket. See p.90. www.ama-events.com
Monday
Thai-Swedish CC Breakfast Seminar on AEC, Sheraton Grange Sukhumvit, 7.45am
Tuesday
Wednesday
13 14 15 16 Annual General Meeting of The Bangkok St. Andrew’s Society. 7pm at The British Club. See p. 95. www.bangkokscot.com
Monday
Tuesday
Simply Frank- A Night at the Copa. Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit (May16-20) See p. 88.
Wednesday
Thursday
21 22 23 24 Kevin Lyttle. Zaks Wine Pub, Sukhumvit Soi 11. See p.89.
BCCT Lunch, ‘Lord Mayor of London,’ Banyan Tree, 11.45pm
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
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IPN talk: Expat Repatriation: How to Prepare Your Family to Return Home. Rembrandt Hotel, Sukhumvit Soi 18, 6.30pm.
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Movers and Shakers. Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, 6pm. www.moversshakerscharity.com
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Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
AustCham, Sundowners, Hansar Bangkok Hotel, 6pm
AMCHAM YPC Networking night, Chatrium Hotel, 7pm
Top of the Gulf Regatta, Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Jomtien Beach, Pattaya. topofthegulfregatta.com (May 4-8)
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1 2 3 4
Wednesday
9 10 11 12 Cancer Care Charity Run, Lumpini Park. See p.90.
Rotary International Convention. May 6 – 9 at IMPACT. www.rotary.org AMCHAM Networking night, Oriental Residences, Wireless Road, 8pm
Rotary International Convention. May 6 – 9 at IMPACT. www.rotary.org
Thursday
Friday
British Club: Australasian Wine Dinner, 7.30pm
Summer Camp. Centrepoint Studio, See p.88. Thaiticketmajor.com American Women’s Club of Thailand ‘Gala Dinner,’ Four Seasons Hotel, 6pm
Saturday
Sunday
Bangkok Bangers Rugby Club Versus Thailand. Bangkok Patana School. Kick Off 4.30pm.
Standard Chartered EPL Masters Football Thailand Cup. Impact Arena. See p.90. www.Thaiticketmajor.com
Sunday
Monday
17 18 19 20 James Zabiela. Bed Supperclub See p.88. www.facebook.com/ events/272781792815919 BCCT, Third Thursday Networking Night, Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, 6.30pm
FCCT: Commemoration of the Palestinian Nakba and ‘The Land Speaks Arabic, 7.30pm
Friday
Young-Hyun Cho. Goethe Institute Auditorium See page 88 BSO-Opera Dido & Aeneas. Thailand Cultural Center. See p.88. Thaiticketmajor.com (May18-20)
AMCHAM, with BCCT Eastern Seaboard, AustCham, Networking night, Pattaya Marriott Hotel, 6pm
Saturday
25 26 27 28 BCCT-Masters Football, Bangkok Patana School, 9am. (May 26-27) Samui Regatta. See p.90. (May 26 – June 2)
Phuket 10s Rugby tournament. (May25-27) (Old Boys May 25) Lady Gaga. Rajamangala National Stadium. See p.89. www.Thaiticketmajor.com
Performance
Who Is Afraid of the Opera. NIST. See p.89.
AustCham Diamond Ball, 6.30pm. Brazilian Association of Thailand: Brazilian Carnival, Grand Hyatt Erawan, 6pm
Sport
• AMCHAM: American Chamber of Commerce. www.amchamthailand.com • BCCT: British Chamber of Commerce. www.bccthai.com • AustCham: Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce. www.austchamthailand.com • FTCC: Franco-Thai Chamber of Commerce. www.francothaicc.com
Simone Kopmajer. Millennium Hilton Bangkok. See p.89. www.Thaiticketmajor.com
Networking
Tradeshow
• FCCT: Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand. www.fccthai.com • BITEC: Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center. www.bitec.co.th • IMPACT: Impact Convention Center. www.impact.co.th • QSNCC: Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. www.qsncc.co.th
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INSIGHT SCHOOL REPORT
Big win for Harrow at Steinway Youth Piano Competition HARROW International School student Natnaree Suwanpotipra (Belle) was last month declared winner of the first ever Steinway Youth Piano Competition in Thailand. Held at the Siam Kempinski Hotel, the competition featured a panel of international judges and Natnaree successfully beat off stiff competition from several students to win their votes. Miss Natnaree’s not the only student who has recently wowed audiences with her musical talents – the school recently held a Benefit Bash Rock Concert for flood victims in which several of the school’s bands entertained the crowd. You can read more about this on page 36.
Summer School and Sports Camp at NIST
NIST is now accepting applicants for its Summer School and Sports Camp which will be held from June 17 – July 13. The programmes on offer help students to strengthen their skills in preparation for the next school year or simply to enhance their learning in a variety of ways. Courses are available to NIST and non-NIST students from Elementary to Secondary school. For Academic courses students can attend the full 4 weeks or the first or last two weeks. For sports camp students can sign up for individual weeks or for the whole month. For four weeks, the full price is B33,000. Book before May 15 for a chance to get early bird rates. For more info visit: summerschool2012nist.wikispaces.com
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IDP Education Expo
FIND the answers to any and all questions you may have about study inAustralia at IDP Education Expo 2012, presented by IDP Education Services at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre from June 16-17. The all-in-one education fair offers great opportunities to meet key representatives from the leading Australian educational institutions at every level as they will all be on hand to provide guidance on featured Australian institutions & application processes and offer detailed information on specific fields of study. Open each day 11am-6pm. For more info visit: www.thailand.idp.com
KIS International School’s Summer Camp open to all
KIS 14th annual summer camp for children aged 4-12 years will run this year from Monday June 18 - Friday July 6. Activities will include a variety of sports, Language Arts skills, Information Communication Technology (ICT), numbers fun, music, clay creation, drawing, painting, baking; a one day excursion and an overnight trip. Each camp is run by an experienced and well-qualified team of professionals. All students attending camp will benefit from the use of KIS’s spacious, green campus, modern classrooms and sports facilities. The camps are open to both KIS and non-KIS students from 4 years up to and including 12 years of age. Enrolment is on a first-come-first-served basis. Class sizes are kept small in order to provide individual attention. Camp hours are 9am-3pm, Monday to Friday. The cost for the camp ranges from B27,000 to B38,100. This fee includes activities, meals, snacks, camp materials, a camp T-shirt and field trips. For more information and application contact K. Aim or K. May on Tel: 02 274 3444 ext. 1101 or 1106 or email: sissadee@kis.ac.th or suparada@kis.ac.th.
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SCHOOL REPORT HARROW
HARROW: PRESCRIBING SUCCESS FOR FUTURE DOCTORS Becoming a doctor is notoriously difficult, but six students from Harrow International School are each well on their way to doing just that
DOCTORS are remarkable people. Long hours, emotional stress, difficult patients, technical challenges, regularly changing research information and challenging decisions. No one would deny that being a doctor is difficult. We might though be a little surprised, and perhaps more than a little reassured, to realise just how difficult it is for aspiring doctors to even get into medical school. An outstanding academic record is a given, straight A grades are the norm, strong scores in Clinical Aptitude tests a must. Lengthy, varied and relevant work 34
and volunteer experience stretching over many years is an absolute. Demonstrating the essential qualities of leadership, empathy, resilience and integrity, a student’s application, personal statement and reference have to be first class. And all of this before an aspiring doctor sets foot in a medical school. Even interviews for places at medical school are difficult to secure. With admissions ratios ranging from 6:1 to 16:1 (applications:offers) even getting invited for interview is a success in itself. For overseas students the odds are even
more stacked against them. With tight quotas controlling the number of places for international students, gaining an interview, let alone getting a place, is exceptionally difficult. The interviews themselves are tough, often spanning several hours and multiple interviewers. In these the students will be probed on matters technical to temperament, ethical to emotional. They will be stretched, challenged and tested. Maybe, just maybe, after all of this they will be offered a place at medical school. And then the hard work
begins. Years at medical school are followed by years in training, each more difficult and challenging than the last. The reward for all of this? A tough but gratifying career. Being a doctor is difficult; getting to be a doctor in the first place is just as difficult. The success then of Harrow International School’s latest batch of aspiring medics is then even more exemplary. Seven of the nine Harrow students who applied for UK university medical courses were offered at least one interview by their chosen institutions with four being invited to two or more interviews. Several of the students have received multiple offers - securing one is difficult enough, securing more than one offer is remarkable. Six students look set to embark on the difficult journey towards qualifying as a doctor. For more information about Harrow International School see www.harrowschool.ac.th
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SCHOOL REPORT Q&A
THE REAL SCHOOL OF ROCK
Harrow International Schoolʼs Director of Music, Christopher Johnson, on the importance of making music fun and accessible – and how the school raised a whopping 250,000 baht for flood victims through the power of rock
How long have you been working at Harrow and what is your experience? I am the Director of Music and have been working here for almost eight years now. Prior to Harrow, I was Director of Music and Tutor to the Choristers at St. John’s College Choir School, Cambridge. I have extensive experience working in music as a composer and an examiner, and as a concert producer I have worked with big names such as Cliff Richard, Michael Ball and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and produced recordings for the likes of Black Dyke Mills Band. Tell us about teaching at Harrow? How does the music department benefit the students? It is our intention that music should touch the lives of many students as possible.
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At Harrow, we involve large numbers of students in a wide variety of music making whilst ensuring there is a suitable platform for those who are exceptionally gifted at music. Fundamentally we aim to promote an appreciation and enjoyment of music in all students whatever their ability – be they absolute beginners or advanced technicians. The key words are enjoyment and fun through practical ‘hands on’ experience. The recent Benefit Bash Rock Concert is a perfect example of this. To see them perform at this very high standard and enjoy every minute of their performance is sufficient reward in itself as a teacher. We heard the Benefit Bash Rock Concert was a huge success. What made you decide to hold the event? For most people I think
memories of school concerts usually conjure images of draughty assembly halls, squealing violins and stuffy old conductors. For the staff, students and community of Harrow International School though things are different. Very different. On professional outdoor staging, with a professional sound and lighting system, 13 student rock bands and famous Thai rockers Modern Dog performed to a crowd of 1,200 people. The culmination of weeks of hard work and practice, this amazing rock concert was put together to help raise money for local people who suffered from the floods. With well over five hours of high-quality entertainment, concluding with a fireworks display at 9pm, the event raised 250,000 baht. We are very proud and thankful to all those
who took part in this event and helped to make it happen. What was your favourite moment of the event? I have two memorable moments from the show; the first being our Prep Rock Band coached by Chris Roche who were our youngest performers on stage this year and they were truly outstanding. Secondly, at the end of the show, Modern Dog invited a Year 13 trumpet player called Pat to join them on stage and play in their final song. This was a very gracious gesture of Modern Dog – true professionals and it made the event for the rest of us. Pat said ‘it was the best moment of his life.’ To hear him say that made the whole event worth it. This is why music plays such a fundamental role in our lives. For more info see www.harrowschool.ac.th
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REVIEW RAFFLES
RAFFLES: TEACHING FORWARD THINKING BUSINESS SKILLS TO THE CEOS OF TOMORROW The world of business is in constant flux and companies need staff which can handle the pressure. Jose Roberto Del Rosario, Jr. Academic Director of Raffles International College, explains how Raffles helps its students to make the grade project-based learning, and hands-on experience to transfer knowledge to students. These practices almost guarantee skill acquisition, building, and retention among students. In “Management Theory and Applications,” students are made to write a case analysis and present their work before the entire class at least once a week. In “Principles of Economics,” students are required to scour the business news to make sense of recent events that impact on business. THE rapid evolution in information and communications technology has transformed the business environment from one of stability and predictability to one of constant flux. The rules of the business game have changed. Companies can no longer pause and assess situations before making strategic choices. They have to decide as they go, often depending on a combination of rational analysis and intuition to chart their futures. Given the scenario of unvarying change, companies now require a new breed of professionals to staff various sensitive posts in their organizations. They need professionals that can start in their jobs without much handholding. Rather than becoming preoccupied with training fresh recruits for their work, they want these new employees to learn as they go and generate results quickly.
For new college graduates to thrive in the new paradigm, they must already possess key skills when they enter the workforce. They may have the basic theoretical knowledge of business and management, but more importantly, they must have the proper mindset and capacity to eventually succeed in a continuously shifting business landscape. Basic skills like business writing, making presentations, and conducting data analyses are going to be very useful. Advanced skills like environmental scanning, strategic planning, conducting primary market research, and financial modeling are imperative. Unfortunately, the prerequisite skills to success in a business career need time to develop and nurture; time that companies are in short supply of. Logically, if companies have little time to get new employees up to speed, then they should hire people who already have
been trained, at least in the basic sense, during their years in college. Raffles International College recognizes this need for trained new entrants to the business world. While it provides fundamental business and management theory through lectures and readings, it emphasizes more on practice to get students to develop skills. The college engages lecturers from various countries with significant business and management experience at the middle-to-upper levels of corporate hierarchy in diverse industries. This ensures that its students are coached and mentored by practitioners who “have seen it and have done it,” so to speak. In the second year of study, every business student has to write a comprehensive business plan for a real business idea. They do this over a three month period in which they are guided by a lecturer. Raffles uses case analysis,
The subject “Visitor Attractions Management” gets students out of the classroom to visit various tourist attractions and learn about their management. All things considered, Raffles International College is committed to the view that business and management students must “learn what matters” in today’s business world. Raffles International College currently offers a wide range of advanced diploma programs in business. For more info please email Jose Roberto at joseroberto@ raffles-design-institute.com.
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SCHOOL REPORT KIS
KIS STUDENTS WIN TOP UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIPS
School delighted as six students scoop more than 300,000 US$ to fund their further studies EVERY year around this time, grade 12 students around the world anxiously await the results of their university applications. The students at KIS International School are no exception ‒ since KIS had its first class of graduates in 2010, all graduates have been successful at securing places at their university of choice. Students at KIS graduate with an IB (International Baccalaureate) Diploma, which is a valuable qualification in acquiring a place at renowned universities around the globe.
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With support from the University Counsellor, KIS graduates each year successfully complete their admission to universities in the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, Thailand and other countries. Two KIS students have interviewed at Oxford and others have been accepted at prestigious universities such as Baylor University in the US, McGill University and University of Toronto in Canada, and Exeter University in the UK. But in addition to securing a place, the school encourages students to apply for scholarships. Studying overseas can be prohibitively expensive. Typical universities in the US may charge international students between 20,000 and 45,000 US$
per year, where a typical degree will take four years. In the UK, universities charge between 9,000 GBP and 18,000 GBP, most degrees take three years. However, if you look carefully, there are opportunities to win scholarships which will allow students to pay significantly less in tuition fees. This year’s graduating class at KIS consists of 15 students (it’s a small class this year) and six of these students have applied for scholarships. With their solid academic background, and the predicted scores for the IB Diploma in hand (IB exams are held in May, results come out in July), combined with their well-balanced personalities and extensive resumes, these six students together have so far been awarded over 300,000 US$ in scholarships. That’s an average of 50,000 US$, or more than 1.5 Million Baht per student, excluding UK and Australian scholarships as these are still pending. That’s serious money, and this makes a quality
university education suddenly very accessible. Of course, to win these overseas scholarships, students need to have an IB diploma or an equivalent qualification and they need to have thoroughly developed English Language skills. Unfortunately, not all parents can afford to send their children to an IB school. KIS can help. The school offers scholarships to international students (all grade levels) and to Thai students (Grade 6 and up) to help provide an opportunity for a good education and prepare students for entry into top universities. Parents all want the best for their children’s education, but the best doesn’t always come cheap. It pays to be clever and search for both international school scholarships and university scholarships to help ease the financial burden of giving your child a top education. For more information visit: www.kis.ac.th
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Expat WOMEN p Put your feet up and indulge
UK fashion brand F&F has released its summer collection exclusively at Tesco Lotus. Clothes that fit? Yes please!
True story
Wife drops cheating husband and finds life after love in Bangkok Page 40
Question time We speak to long term expat Jane Bailey about her life in Thailand Page 46
Agony aunts
Professional counselors Anette and Johanna help readers with problems Page 48 TheBigChilli
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EXPAT WOMEN TRUE STORY
k o k g n a B in e v lo r e ft Life a ence of a Bangkokeri exp g gin an -ch life the on sed ba is g The followin d more on his mind ha nd sba hu r he red ve co dis o wh e iat based expatr By Kay Kaye than work when he went to the office.
■ SUZY knew her marriage was in trouble when her husband failed to come home after a night out with the lads for the second time in two weeks - and his subsequent explanation for the absence proved as limp as his recent interest in her. Two questions haunted Suzy: Why had she agreed to come and live in Thailand when her friends back in New Zealand had warned her so many times of its reputation as a marriagebreaker. And, more painfully, why had she been so naïve about allowing THAT woman into her family’s life, a position of trust that had allowed her to win her husband’s love. Suzy and Mike first arrived in Thailand four years earlier. Mike, an engineer of considerable repute, had been offered a job whose benefits were simply too good to refuse. Overseas postings brought with them all kinds of benefits, especially financial ones. So, even though he and Suzy had only returned to Auckland six months earlier after a five-year assignment in the Middle East, Mike was eager to resume expatriate life. For her part, Suzy was far less keen. Apart from missing her parents and wanting her three young children to get to know the
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land of their birth, she believed that at their age - Suzy and Mike were both in their late 30s - the couple should be settling down. Moreover, she was acutely aware of the temptations overseas postings can present. Mike, she had discovered mid-way through their time in the Middle East, had become embroiled with another, much younger woman. For almost a year, the relationship had been a serious threat to their marriage before the clearly physical attraction between the pair fizzled out. Mike was full of remorse and apologies, and assured Suzy that the stress of his high-powered job was really to blame. Reluctantly, Suzy had forgiven him, if in word only. She knew from personal experience that people can be weak. After all, she had had several guiltless affairs during her first marriage and had actually left her first husband to be with Mike. In an admission of remarkable candour, Suzy today acknowledges that it is not only men who tire of the same partner. Women, she maintains, are also extremely capable of enjoying the thrill of a new experience.
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On their return to New Zealand, Mike worked hard at patching up the relationship and a level of normality returned. Work was irregular, however, and money was always in short supply. Thus, when the opportunity in Thailand came up, there was really no choice. Mike, Suzy and their three children would risk the unknown once again. As for Thailand’s reputation as a male paradise, something her friends continually mentioned, Suzy fatefully put this thought to the back of her mind. Despite the warnings, the family loved the first six months here. Together, they explored Bangkok, discovered all sorts of interesting and different aspects to life, and felt a new kind of communal closeness, especially as Mike was able to work mainly from home. This, as it turned out, was something of a honeymoon period as Mike became increasingly involved in his business dealings and gradually, perhaps inevitably, spent less time with Suzy and the kids. Not frequently, he would entertain clients, returning home late at night, carrying with him the pungent odours of Bangkok’s energetic nightlife. An increasing number of weekends were taken up with visits to factories and customers, though Mike never allowed his family to join him. When the workload proved too much, he looked around for an assistant to look after the mainly bureaucratic affairs quickly piling up. After interviewing a number of candidates, he finally chose Nu, a lively 24-year-old with an engaging smile and eagerness to please. Though clearly not as well qualified as some of the other applicants, Nu’s credentials seemed good enough, having apparently graduated from one of Thailand’s provincial universities. Her command of English was reasonable - certainly better than Suzy and Mike’s Thai language abilities. Nu was assigned the spare room as an office. Her innate feminine touch soon turned bare walls into a comfy working space, and she quickly settled into her work. Mike was certainly happy to have some regular assistance, allowing more time to
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focus on more weighty business matters. Suzy went out of her way to make Nu feel welcome and the children enjoyed the novelty of a newcomer in the household. Nu made a fuss of the youngsters and would often chat to Suzy on all kinds of topics, from beauty tips to home decorations. The pair became quite close, and Suzy felt no threat from this outsider. At least, not yet. With her own daily tasks mounting - ferrying the kids to and back from school and a growing list of parties and get-togethers with other expatriate wives - Suzy spent less and less time at home. Significantly, viewed with the benefit of hindsight, Mike scaled back his business trips and devoted an increasing amount of his work time at the office back in the family house. And yet, Suzy began picking up signs that “something was wrong.” Looking back, she says she could actually feel the heat between her husband and his secretary. Stolen glances, warm smiles and a growing confidence between Mike and Nu coincided with a decrease in temperature between Suzy and her husband. And when he did go on business trips, Nu had a tendency to suddenly excuse herself from work, citing improbable family problem as the reason for not coming to the office. But the signs were unmistakable and after some soul-searching, Suzy confronted Mike. Was he involved with another woman, she asked him directly, without naming anyone in particular. Mike denied the accusation emphatically and even looked hurt at the suggestion. Initially this seemed to have the desired effect. Mike spent more time with his family, while Nu buried herself in a mountain of work. The improvements in his behaviour were short-lived, however. Inexorably, Mike slipped into his old ways of cool indifference to his wife while pursuing some increasingly important but unspecified outside interest. When Mike failed to come up with a plausible reason for staying out all night yet again, Suzy not only felt neglected and unloved but also angry at his complete lack of guilt. Again Suzy asked him if there was someone else and again, in an off-hand, almost light-hearted way, Mike rejected the notion that something was wrong. But there was no getting round the fact that the situation was rapidly deteriorating - and everyone, including the children, knew it. The emotional dam broke one Saturday morning a few weeks later when Mike coldly announced hew was leaving. He confessed he had found someone else and wanted to be with her. At first Suzy was rocked by his news, but shock quickly turned into relief as she finally got confirmation of what she had long suspected.
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EXPAT WOMEN True story
Who was the other woman, she wanted to know. Mike refused to answer. His secretary? No, he insisted. Definitely not her. Even as he left the family home, two hastily stuffed suitcases and a bunch of documents in hand, Mike would not disclose the identity of the person who had come between them. Curiously, tears did not accompany his departure; both parties seemed in some kind of mental limbo. It came as no surprise when Nu failed to turn up for work on Monday, though Mike in a subsequent telephone call said her absence was due to his change in work circumstances, and had absolutely nothing to do with the rift. Nonetheless, he would not give Suzy any of his or Nu’s contact details, leaving her to guess his whereabouts as well as his love interests. The following months were a rollercoaster ride for Suzy and her children. Although she still did not know who Mike was now staying with, Suzy concluded not unreasonably that it was Nu. And it was her past behaviour - the trickery, fake friendship and ultimate treachery - that got to Suzy almost as much as Mike’s infidelity. After all, she had welcomed Nu into her family, treated her with respect and even confided in her on occasions. In blaming Nu, Suzy conveniently overlooked the fact that it was her husband who had almost certainly first suggested using the couple’s bed to continue their affair. Mike continued to pay all the household expenses but with an ominous caveat: his business was not doing well and he didn’t know how much longer he could afford to pay for the kids’ international schooling, let alone the cost of the townhouse Suzy was renting. But it was at this low point in her life that Suzy dug deep to find the strength and resolve to carry on. She was utterly committed to her children and determined to give them a quality upbringing, even if it meant doing it alone. And she told herself that the split from her husband would not affect her personal happiness. For sure, interrupting the children’s education at this point was not an option. Nor was a return to New Zealand. But she was realistic enough to know that some level of financial independence was crucial in order to reach her personal goals. In her younger life, Suzy had worked as a researcher and
Although she still did not know who Mike was now staying with, Suzy concluded not unreasonably that it was Nu. And it was her ultimate treachery that got to Suzy almost as much as Mike’s infidelity.
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was by all accounts pretty good in her job. As luck would have it, a vacancy for a researcher with English language skills was advertised in a local newspaper. To her delight, Suzy was selected for the post. Apart from being surprisingly well paid, her new employer’s office was located a short distance from her house. An added bonus was that her boss allowed her to do some of her work from home, giving her easier access to the children. The benefits didn’t stop there either, for Suzy suddenly found herself surrounded by friendly and interesting colleagues who were very sympathetic with regard to her situation. She was even aware of some admiring glances. Within months, the gloom of recent past had lifted and Suzy discovered a new thirst for life. Mike, meanwhile, kept a distance from his family, contacting them only on the most urgent matters. He continued to help with expenses, even though Suzy now had the means to pay her own way. Although the children obviously missed their father, his absence did not seem to have a major effect on their behaviour or their schoolwork. The realization that she was finally free, emotionally and financially, dawned on Suzy one morning at work while sipping a cup of coffee. This feeling of liberation sent a shudder of satisfaction through her. Despite all she had been through, both here in Thailand and in the Middle East, Suzy was still playing a vital role in life, important to her children, her friends and to herself. Mike had gone and although she missed certain aspects of male companionship, this lively and intelligent lady was getting by splendidly on her own. For the time being, she has no plans to leave Thailand. That may change later, of course, when the children finish school. Until then, Suzy harbours no bitterness and remains a wonderfully optimistic person.
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AD Bigchilli_May12.indd 3
5/2/12 5:22:45 PM
EXPAT WOMEN FASHION
Olympics inspired minimalism ■ WHO says sporty clothes can’t be fashion-
able and classy? adidas SLVR’s latest collection presents a refined sportwear combining casual patterns and sleek design for discerning women who appreciate fine tailoring and style. Inspired by the upcoming Olympic games, the spring/ summer collection features highlights such as an oversized cotton coat, a nylon windbreaker adorned with buckle details, a silk jumpsuit, high-waist shorts, a simple column dress, and Japanese-style sandals with ribbon laces. For more info, Tel: 02 658 1131 www.adidas.com/SLVR
Fashion focus New collections out now
F&F’s summer sensations
■ UK fashion brand F&F celebrated its second anniversary in Thailand last month by releasing its summer collection exclusively at Tesco Lotus. The Collection is divided into four and features ‘California Girl,’ which is inspired by Californian surfer girls in the 60s and features bright and candyfloss, sunbleached colours and Ketch Hawaiian prints for coloured wedges, shorts and dresses; ‘Modern Graphic,’ which combines a classy minimalist look with elaborate tailoring coloured techniques; ‘Urban Soul,’ which is inspired by cultural festivals and blends vintage looks with ethnic prints; and ‘Rebel,’ inspired by American rocker Joan Jett of the Runaways! – think a casual look with attitude, such as stressed denims and graffiti print tees.
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AD Big Chilli_April12.indd 12
3/28/12 1:10:08 PM
EXPAT WOMEN NEWS
She’s a character: Jane Bailey Jane in focus Hometown: Leicester, England Marital status: Single Age: 33 Occupation: Country Manager for Plant A Tree Today (PATT) Foundation
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How long have you been in Thailand? 12 years. How much longer do you expect to be here? Unsure - whilst I’m happy and I don’t foresee a reason to leave, anything can happen and I haven’t yet resorted to the fact I may be here forever! How often do you return to your home country? Usually twice a year.
British expat Jane has spent 12 years living in Thailand. Here she shares her loves and likes, ups and downs, and talks about the challenges facing expat women (often if they don’t work), and jealousy/ threats from the ‘night scene.’ I have experienced extensive jealousy in the work place and lots of back stabbing but nothing that can happen anywhere. Do you ever feel threatened or intimidated by the beauty of Thai women? Of course many Thai women are beautiful but I am not threatened or intimidated by this, just as I am not threatened or intimidated by beautiful women in general! What clubs, societies do you belong to? Board of Directors for the British Chamber of Commerce, member of Australian Chamber of Commerce, member of St. Georges Society, British Women’s Group, British Club
Do you have a lot of friends here, and are they more numerous than back home? Are they mainly from your home country, or do you mix with other foreign nationals and Thais? I am very lucky as I have kept all of my friendships from school and previous work in the UK, and I also have an abundance of friends I have made over the years here in Thailand. I have both local and expat friends from various nations – I have not stuck solely to the British community and I have integrated locally! What are your main hobbies? Planting Trees with PATT Foundation (naturally), yoga, running, socialising with family and friends, travelling and enjoying nice food and wine.
What do you like/dislike most about Bangkok/Thailand? The traffic and pollution are my obvious dislikes. I love the fact that it is very easy to travel and move about from Bangkok/Thailand as I love to explore new places! And being a fan of eating, I love Thai food. I also love taking advantage of all the great places to have a massage. Where do you live, and what kind of accommodation do you occupy (house, condo etc)? I live in a Condo on Srinakarin Road in a very quiet area of Bangkok. What are the biggest challenges for expat women here? I cannot speak for every expat woman here, as I have been here for nearly half of my life, but I think many expat women suffer from loneliness and purpose in Bangkok
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Business advice What trait do you admire most in people? Honesty. Any unfulfilled ambitions, or regrets? I still cannot believe how long I have spent in Thailand, and although I don’t have any regrets, I would still love to explore the Inca Trail, trek in Tibet and spend more time exploring Australia and England.
The difference between advertising and PR Knowing the subtleties of advertising and public relations can help you craft successful marketing communication campaigns. PR consultant Kittima Sethi explains
Your favourite restaurant, bar/pub, hangout? My favourite places to eat are Glang Bueng, a local seafood restaurant on Srinakarin Road, and Isao, a Japanese restaurant on Sukhummvit Soi 31. I hang out all over town... Your favorite place for a haircut? Downstairs in my condo! Favourite place to buy clothes? Maybe Seacon Square or Paradise Park – it’s convenient and I’m not a huge fan of shopping. Where do you like to go for a pampering (spa, massage, manicure etc.)? I am always a fan of Pannipa’s on Ekkamai for a pampering, and I love Supalai Massage on Thonglor. Your favorite weekend destination? Possibly Kanchanburi, but I am always happy for a change of scenery – beach, riverside or mountain! What or who is the greatest love of your life? I have many great loves in my life – too many to mention. Do you have a life motto? Life is for the living, so enjoy and appreciate every moment! Can you honestly say you understand the Thai way of life and doing things? I would never say I understand completely and to be honest I don’t understand my own culture 100%, but I can speak Thai and have integrated. In fact, some of my best friends in Thailand are Thai, not farang, so I do have a good idea of the Thai way of living and the way things work here. For more info about Plant a Tree Today visit: www.pattfoundation.org
■ AS a PR consultant, I have often been asked what the difference is between Public Relations and Advertising. These two areas of marketing are often misunderstood as being the same thing. Both of these are used in Integrated Marketing Communications, yet they are very different. Advertising is an attempt to persuade consumers to buy their products or services by highlighting the benefits and showcasing the attributes. Public relations, on the other hand, use several tools and methods, such as events or press releases, to create awareness and build a positive image of a company. Advertising is a paid advertisement space in a media, whether it is a publication (magazine, newspaper, or journals), radio, TV or online. Since clients have paid for this space, they have complete control over the content, design and timing of the advertisement in the publication. They know when the ad will be published or aired and can repeat the ads as long as their budget allows. In Public Relations, you must earn media attention. PR is focused on getting free media exposure for the company’s products, services or even executives. PR encompasses photo releases to press conferences. While you may have control in creating the message, there is no control over how the media views and presents your message. The media is not obligated to publish your news. A pressing news
story may get priority and your PR article may be shelved. The editor will always have the final say. However, if your PR news is newsworthy, it may appear in different sections of the same publications and presented from different angles. For example, a new story about a well-known sportsperson opening a restaurant may appear in the lifestyle, sports and even the front page section. However, a key to getting the media interested lies in how creatively you craft those messages and their relations to current affairs or public interest. It is important to have an interesting hook or an exciting angle. This is the part where the PR consultant plays an important role. A PR consultant must be able to creatively package the message and maintain good relationships with the media and community. In advertising, advertisements may be repeated, with the intention of increasing the recall rate of the messages intended to be delivered to the audience or target group. With PR, you have just one chance to submit a press release about the company and the media will publish this only once. Both advertising and public relations are important elements in creating an effective and successful marketing communications campaign. Both reinforce the message clients want to convey to consumers. Neither is “better” than the other. It all depends on what results the client wants to achieve. Kittima Sethi is a PR consultant at Brand Now and she may be reached at kittima@ bnowconsulting.com
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EXPAT WOMEN PROBLEMS SOLVED
Ask the experts Send your problems to: thebigchillimagazine@gmail.com
Real Problems Real Solutions
Expat life getting you down? Don’t suffer in silence. Send in your problems and get advice from professional counsellors Anette and Johanna • Anette Pollner Adv. Dipl. Couns., is one of seven international counsellors at NCS Counseling Center in Saphan Kwai. She trained in London and the US and worked as a staff counsellor at Bart’s Hospital in London.
How can I get my wife to take me back?
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THINK I have made a big mistake. When I first came to Thailand, my marriage was already in trouble. And when our children left home, my wife and I drifted apart; really, we led separate lives. I fell in love with a beautiful young Thai lady, and left my wife. At first my girlfriend and I were very happy. I thought my wife would go back to Europe, but she didn’t. She’s still in town and I sometimes see her around. But over time, things have gone sour with my Thai girlfriend. I thought my wife was demanding, but the family of my Thai girlfriend is a lot worse. Honestly, I have a lot less freedom now than I had before and I’m wondering if she’s worth it. After another one of my girlfriend’s screaming and scratching tantrums, I made contact with my wife. She agreed to see me but when I tried to be friendly she asked me for a divorce. The funny thing is, my wife seems a lot more attractive now than she was when I left her. I have done the Thai girl thing and now I am ready to come home. How can I persuade her to take me back? Duncan, 52, from Scotland
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Anette says: ■ Dear Duncan, You say you have made a big mistake. Well let me ask you an unexpected question: what is your mistake? Is it leaving your wife? Is it finding out that your new relationship isn’t want you wanted? Or is it wanting to come home? You seem to have made many important life changing decisions within a short time. How do you know which of them is the right one, not just for now but for the future? It seems to me that you are not very clear about your own motivations. What is the exact reason you left your wife? What were you hoping to get? What kind of relationship did you expect with your girlfriend, and what was your contribution to making it a better relationship than the one with your wife? You will notice that I focus on you, not on the other people in your life. This is because you can not change other people or their behavior; the only person you have any chance to change is you. So let me ask you: what do you want from a relationship? Do you really want your wife back, or is it more a case of turning to someone else when the relationship you happen to be in at any given point becomes hard work? All relationships need a lot of maintenance, a lot of investment of your time and energy, and a relationship across different cultures maybe more so than others. You write about being free, and you are wondering if your girlfriend is ‘worth it.’ Are you sure you want to be in a relationship at all? Wouldn’t it suit you better to be single? If you ask yourself all these questions and the answer to all of them is: ‘I want to be back with my wife, because…’, then maybe you could go further and ask yourself how your wife may feel about all this. You feel you made a mistake in leaving her, but how did you communicate with her? When you left her, and also now, when you want her back. What does
she know about your thoughts and feelings? And what do you know about hers? And then there’s your Thai girlfriend. Presumably your wife suffered when you left her. Presumably your girlfriend will suffer, too, if you leave her in turn. How do you feel about that? What does it do to you? You want freedom, and in this case, well, you have a lot of freedom. You can make any decision you want. But first you need to decide what you really want. From the women in your life, and from yourself. Try to review your decision process, and try to find out what your ultimate goal is. Good luck!
Bossy boss making work unbearable
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HAVE problems with my job. Well, actually, with my boss. I am his personal assistant and he is very unpredictable. Sometimes he wants to discuss all kinds of work issues with me and at other times he does not communicate at all. He can be nice and calm but then suddenly he snaps, gives me short answers, bosses me around, and even blames me for things I haven’t done. I try to do my work as responsibly as I can. I think I am systematic and organized, but sometimes he demands more than he should, for example outside working hours. Once he had to catch a plane and he blamed me for not organizing his taxi at 8pm. I am very sensitive and react strongly to this kind of behavior because it brings back memories of my childhood. My father also was very unpredictable and would swing from being pleasant to suddenly being harsh and angry. This is a recurring pattern in my life and I am tired of it. I tried to discuss the situation with my boss but his response was simply: “it’s your problem. You’d better solve it.” I am thinking of applying for other jobs but I am wondering: Am I running away or could I change the situation if I stayed? Is my boss right and this is really my problem? Sonja, 23, from Chiang Mai
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•Johanna DeKoning MS is the Clinical Director of NCS Counseling Center. She trained in the Netherlands and Australia.
Johanna says: ■ Dear Sonja, First of all you do need to ask yourself what makes you want to stay in this work environment? And what is it that you like about your job? If you can answer these questions positively and can come up with many good reasons to stay in your workplace (great salary, I like the work I do, good connections
was powerless against her unpredictable father! You can set a boundary between you and your boss by not letting his moods/attitudes influence your emotions. Look at what you feel, acknowledge the feelings and decide how much you want to be ruled by them. Set your own limits. How is it possible that your boss phones you at 8pm, long after office hours, to bother you with a taxi he needs? Did you
“Learn to recognize his mood swings. Sometimes you might want to respond but maybe sometimes you could just ignore his attitude. The way you react is your choice, not his.” with other colleagues etc.), then the issue with your boss could perhaps be worked out. If you want to stay at your workplace you could try to train yourself to be more relaxed. Try to let his behavior not to get under your skin but calmly (and stoically) let it go or pass by. Learn to recognize his mood swings. Sometimes you might want to respond but maybe sometimes you could just ignore his attitude. The way you react is your choice, not his. Realize you are NOT the little girl from the past who
have an agreement on working hours/ overtime/or being available 24/7? On another note: leaving this position also could be a rewarding experience, like learning to be able to change situations. When you were a young girl you could NOT leave your father, but you are now a grown woman who is free to make her own decisions in life. If this place/situation does not suit you, you are not obliged to stay. Look at your options and see what is most beneficial for your emotional wellbeing, your life and your future.
Contact info Web: ncs-counseling.com Email: anette.p@ncs-counseling.com Tel: 02 279 8503 Send your problems to: thebigchillimagazine@gmail.com
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Gourmet p Wine and restaurant news
CHEF FR HELL OM ’ KITC S HEN PAGE 70
Spicy marinated chicken is just one of the treats on offer as part of Sundowner’s Bar’s new Happy Hours promo. Page 56.
What’s Cooking A round up of this month’s best gourmet deals. Yummy! Page 52
Recipe
Learn how to create Brazil’s national dish - a meat and bean stew! Page 74
Dining out
Our favourite restaurants reviewed and listed Page 76 TheBigChilli
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GOURMET NEWS
What’s Cooking
Bangkok’s hottest dining deals and news Indian food – Varanasi style
Hot Choice!
THE TERRACE@72 BUFFET RESTAURANT, UNTIL MAY 31
■ RAMADA Plaza Menam Riverside Bangkok is adding a range of Indian specialties to its international buffet selection this month. Specially prepared by the hotel’s native Indian Chef, Anil Pandey, and cooked in the northern Indian style associated with the inhabitants of Varanasi city, tasty dishes include Murgh Musallam (Chicken baked in the Tandoor), Navratan Pulao (Basmati rice cooked with vegetables and Indian spices), and Murgh Methi Malai (Chicken flavoured with Fenugreek and cream). Available every Fri-Sat at B690++ for lunch and B1,200++ for dinner, and Sunday Brunch at B900++. Half prices for kids aged 5-12.
Hard Rock’s concert giveaway
HARD ROCK CAFE BANGKOK, UNTIL MAY 20
2074 Charoenkrung Road, Tel: 02 688 1000 ext. 118 www.ramadaplazamenamriverside.com
■ HARD Rock Cafe Bangkok is giving diners the chance to win tickets to go and watch Bruce Springsteen perform at the Hard Rock Calling Concert in London (includes flights, accommodation and pocket money. Total value: B155,000!). Simply order a pitcher of Coke or Singha Beer with your meal, a mini Singha Keg (2 litres), or a bottle of Whiskey with Coke, and you’ll be entered into a lucky draw. Other prizes include a three-days-twonights’ stay in a Deluxe Sea View room at Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya (including meals and a spa treatment), a B3,000 F&B voucher for Hard Rock Cafe Bangkok, and a B6,000 voucher for Hard Rock’s family merchandise set. Siam Square, www.hardrock.com
Salmon and dory treats THE SQUARE, MAY 11-20
■ A WIDE range of dishes made using Salmon and Dory fish will be available as part of Novotel Bangna Bangkok’s international buffet during its special nine day promotion. B600++ for lunch, B700++ for dinner, and B950++ for Sunday Brunch. 333 Srinakarin Road Tel: 02 366 0505 ext.1431, 1432 www.novotel.com/asia
The taste of South East Asia THE SQUARE, MAY 4 – 13
■ MANY specialties from Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos and Thailand will be on offer as part of Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square’s South East Asia Festival, which will feature a sumptuous buffet prepared by guest chefs, and be sold at the restaurant’s usual buffet rates. During the festival diners will have the chance to win a variety of prizes, such as a Family Holiday Package at Novotel Phuket Resort with four roundtrip airfares. Siam Square Soi 6, Tel: 02 209 8888 ext. the Square www.novotelbkk.com
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Two-for-one lunch THE SQUARE, UNTIL JULY 31
■ NOVOTEL Bangkok Platinum is offering a buy-one-get-one-free deal on its international buffet lunch. Served every Mon-Sat from 11.45am-3pm, the buffet includes a wide selection of international cuisines with popular items such as foie gras, lobsters, oysters, lamb and king prawns. Normal price is B799++ per person. 220 Petchaburi Road, Tel: 02 160 7123 email: H7272-FB4@accor.com www.novotelbangkokplatinum.com
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King Crab and Seafood returns ATELIER, AVAILABLE NOW
■ BACK by popular demand, Grand Millennium Sukhumvit’s King crab and seafood buffet at Atelier features an array of seafood and crab cooked in a variety of styles. Available every Fri and Sat, the buffet is B1,400 per person including free flow of white wine. Go as a group of four and you pay only for two.
Wine dinners
30 Sukhumvit 21 (Asoke) Road, Tel: 02 204 4161 email: fb@grandmillenniumskv.com www.grandmillenniumskv.com
Vega Sicilia showcase
Korean Buffet
MADISON, MAY 22
KAYAGEUM KOREAN RESTAURANT, UNTIL MAY 31
■ PATHUMWAN Princess Hotel’s popular Korean restaurant is offering a special all-you-caneat Kayageum buffet for just B499 per person. Available for lunch (11.30am-2pm) and dinner (5.30pm-10pm), the buffet includes Teppanyaki, BBQ and hot pot selections. 444 MBK Center, Phayathai Road, Tel: 02 216 3700 www.pprincess.com
Foie gras specialties
AZURE, UNTIL JUNE 15
■ THE recently-opened Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn is launching its Azure restaurant with a special menu featuring a range of dishes made using premium foie gras. Available for both lunch and dinner, these include Moroccan-inspired seared foie gras with date purée and pomegranate on toasted brioche; House smoked Barbary duck breast with foie gras parfait, crispy caramelized walnuts and light mixed berry vinaigrette; and Terrine of foie gras with red onion and fig jam. 33/1 South Sathorn Road, Tel: 02 210 8100 ext. Azure email: az@eastingrandsathorn.com www.eastingrandsathorn.com
Innovative Italian cuisine ANGELINI, UNTIL MAY 31
■ THE Four Seasons Bangkok’s exclusive wine dinner will feature a five-course dinner specially created by the hotel’s Executive Chef Nicolas Schneller to pair with Vega Sicilia wines from Spain. Among the dishes are Kobe beef carpaccio with shaved truffle foie gras; and Red mullet and bone marrow in tempranillo sauce with black trompette and chorizo bottom mushroom. B4,500++ per person. Only 30 seats are available so advance booking is a must. Dinner starts 7pm. Four Seasons Bangkok, 155 Rajadamri Road, Tel: 02 126 8866 ext. 1231, 1232 www.fourseasons.com/bangkok
Wine from a new perspective
5 POP-UP VENUES, JUNE 21
■ PLAZA Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Meridien Hotel’s upcoming five-course wine dinner will be given a novel ‘pop up restaurant’ twist, with each course being served at a different restaurant/ venue within the hotel. Wines on the night will be provided by Australia’s Howard Park winery. B4,800 per person. Advance booking is recommended. Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Meridien Hotel, 61 Wireless Road. Tel: 02 650 8800 ext. 4333 email: fb.bangkok@lemeridien.com lemeridien.com/plazaatheneebangkok
■ THROUGHOUT the month, Chef Marco Riva and his team at Angelini restaurant will be serving a special selection of innovative à la carte dishes such as Caprese di Burratina; Risotto al Gorgonzola e Fegato Grasso; Paccheri della Mamma; and Scottadito d’Agnello in Salsa al Chianti. Set menus are priced B950++, B1,250++, B1,450++ and B2,350++. Dinner is served 6.30pm-10.30pm.
It’s a deal
Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok, 89 Soi Wat Suan Plu, New Road, Tel: 02 236 9952 email: restaurants.slbk@shangri-la.com www.shangri-la.com/bangkok.
Soi Sukhumvit 51 branch, Tel: 02 259 3569 / The Avenue Chaengwattana branch, Tel: 02 574 1774 www.iltartufobangkok.com
IL TARTUFO RESTAURANT, UNTIL MAY 31
■ THROUGHOUT May, order any special pasta dish on il Tartufo’s menu and you’ll get to choose either a complimentary pizza (Margherita or Truffle) or dessert (Panna cotta or Homemade Italian ice cream). Deal is available at both branches.
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GOURMET NEWS
Buffet bonanza
Where to get your all-you-can-eat fill this month Thai buffet lunch
UNTIL May 31, every Tuesday to Thursday Two Forty Eight Café and Bar is offering its Thai buffet lunch at the special price of B199 per person. Served 11.30am-2pm, the buffet is loaded with local favourites like Tom Yum Kung (spicy prawn soup), and Platoo Tod Pakruam Tod (Fried Thai mackerel with fried vegetables).
Northgate Ratchayothin Serviced Residence, 248 Ratchadapisek Road, Tel: 02 939 7949 email: reservation@northgatebangkok.com www.northgatebangkok.com
Go four, pay two
GO as a group of four to the international buffet lunch at The Hub, Ramada Encore Bangkok, and you pay for only two. Normal price is B450 per person. Offer ends June 30. The buffet includes a generous selection of salads, mixed sushi, seafood on ice, grilled fish, Italian pasta, desserts, and more.
Sukhumvit Soi 10, Tel: 02 615 0999 email: info@ramadaencorebangkok.com www.ramadaencorebangkok.com
Australian Fridays
EVERY Friday until June 29, The World & Ginger restaurant at Centara Grand at CentralWorld will host an Australian dinner buffet featuring beef and lamb, Tasmanian salmon, crocodile sausages, ostrich egg scramble, and kangaroo stew, plus a free flow of Australian cabernet sauvignon, Shiraz and Chardonnay. B1,490++ per person. 999/99 Rama 1 Road Tel: 02 100 6255 email: diningcgcw@chr.co.th www.centarahotelsresorts.com
Taste the world
UNTIL May 31, Crave restaurant at Aloft Bangkok - Sukhumvit 11 is offering its international buffet lunch for just B249 per person. An a la carte menu is available for dinner, featuring seafood specialties such as Grilled Maine lobster, Steamed snow fish, and Prawnstuffed snow fish. Wines at Crave start at just B450++. Aloft Bangkok- Sukhumvit 11, 35 Sukhumvit Soi 11, Tel: 02 207 7080 www.alofthotels.com/bangkoksukhumvit11
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New on the scene
The Glass House
■ THIS all-day-dining restaurant located on the fifth floor of the recently opened Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn Bangkok boasts a wealth of international buffet options plus an extensive a la carte menu. But it’s the Crab Connoisseur Dinner Buffet promotion that’s really caught our attention. Held every Fri and Sat night from May 4 – June 30, this promo will feature a range of dishes made using Alaskan Crab Claws, Blue Crabs, Black Crabs – basically all the finest crabs the chefs can get their hands on. Prepared by Executive Chef Alan Wichert, dishes on offer will include Stir fried crab with aromatic curry powder, Steamed crab with homemade Thai seafood sauce, and Rich crab ravioli. The restaurant’s usual international buffet dishes will also be on offer. Buffet dinner is B1,199++ per person (a half price for kids under 16). Tel: 02 210 8100 email: gh@eastingrandsathorn.com www.eastingrandsathorn.com
Hot news!
2012 World Gourmet Festival scheduled for September ■ FOUR Seasons Hotel Bangkok has announced it will host the 13th edition of its annual World Gourmet Festival from Sept 3 – 9. Once again it will feature a sizzling selection of awardwinning chefs, wine tastings, interactive cooking demonstrations and seminars.
This week-long festival is specially arranged to showcase the culinary brilliance and exquisite cuisine of master chefs from America, France, Italy, Hong Kong and other parts of the world, and promises to be the biggest and the best yet. Each dinner served will also feature wines from famous vineyards of the world. At the moment the festival is still in its planning stages. You can keep up with its progress at www.worldgourmetfestivalbangkok.com
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Sukhumvit branch open Mon - Fri for lunch 11.30am - 2.30pm, and Dinner 5.30pm - 11.30pm Open all day Sat - Sun from 11.30am - 11.30pm. Tel : 02 259 3569. Visit: http://iltartufobangkok.com NEW BRANCH OPEN NOW! Located at the Avenue Chaengwattana. Please come and visit us. Tel: 02 574 1774
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GOURMET NEWS
In the mix
Chef’s on the move
Long day at the office? Try these after work remedies Innovative treat
AFTER putting seven mixologists to the test in its Earth Hour Cocktail Competition 2012, Four Points By Sheraton Bangkok’s amBar has now added the winner’s unique concoction to its extensive cocktail list. Called ‘Native’s River,’ the cocktail was created by amBar’s own mixologist, Samart Nongmeesub, and features passion fruit mixed with Thai herbs and kaffir lime - a real refreshing treat. amBar opens daily 4pm-2am.
Sukhumvit 15, Tel: 02 309 3000 www.fourpoints.com/ bangkoksukhumvit15
Free-flow wine and snacks
HAPPY Hours every Thurs-Sat from 6pm-10pm at Sundowner’s Bar, Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel, offer free-flow exclusive wines and unlimited snacks (Spicy buffalo wings, Spanish tapas platter, Grilled marinated pork neck, etc.) for just B1,200 per person. Wines start at only B99++ per glass. Also from Thurs-Sat, The Wildside band performs international rock songs and contemporary pop classics. Promotion ends July 26. 199 Sukhumvit Soi 22, Tel: 02 261 9300 ext.5008 email: dining@imperialhotels.com www.imperialhotels.com
Brazilian chef at Panorama ■ FROM May 7-14, Panorama restaurant at Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini will host guest chef Edmilson Azevedo from the Crowne Plaza Gurgaon in India. The Brazilian native will create a special Brazilian buffet dinner designed to the popular ‘Churrascaria’ Barbeque concept. B1,500++ per person. On May 11, Panorama will host a wine dinner featuring wines from Hugo Casanova Winery at B2,500 per person. For more information about Chef Edmilson – and to try cooking one of his recipes! – see page 74. Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park, 952 Rama IV Road, Tel: 02 632 9000 email: info-cpbkk@ihg.com crowneplaza.com/bangkoklumpini
Totally tropical taste
UNTIL May 31, Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok’s Lobby bar is serving Mango Daiquiris, Mango Coladas and Mango Mojitos for only B220. Want some more mango? Head to the hotel’s pool bar or Rang Mahal restaurant and you can enjoy Mango sorbet and Mango with sweet sticky rice for B120 each.
Sukhumvit Soi 18 Tel: 02 261 7100 email: restaurant@ rembrandtbkk.com www.rembrandtbkk.com
Afterwork Cocktails and Cones
SERVING innovative cocktails, tasty tapas cones, and Movenpick ice cream, the monthly Afterwork Cocktails and Cones events at The Glaz Bar draw a fun crowd and are always a great night out. This month’s event will be held May 30. Entry of B600 includes four drink coupons and all-you-can-eat canapés and tapas. A combined Drinks and Dining Package is available for B1,200 per person. Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Meridien Hotel, 61 Wireless Road, Tel: 02 650 8800 ext. 4333 lemeridien. com/plazaatheneebangkok
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New chef joins Fifty Five and RedSky ■ CENTARA Grand at CentralWorld has appointed Finnish national Mikko Kataja as chef de cuisine of Fifty Five and Red Sky. Chef Mikko joins Centara from the Avenue restaurant in London, where he was the head chef for three years, and prior to that he was chef de cuisine at Launceston Place in London for more than a year.
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REVIEW COCO’S CAFÉ
FRESH NEW FLAVOURS AT COCO’S CAFÉ Chefs in the spotlight at restaurantʼs new live cooking stations
GETTING a table on any evening at Coco’s Café, the flagship restaurant of Bangkok Hotel Lotus Sukhumvit, has always been difficult. Don’t book ahead, and you won’t get a seat. Why? Not because it’s a fine dining restaurant,
but simply because it serves fine food – especially Indian. Indian cuisine is just one of the options on the restaurant’s extensive international buffet (which also includes Japanese, Fusion, Italian, Thai cuisines and vegetarian choices), but it’s definitely the cuisine for which the restaurant is best known.
You don’t need to see the restaurant’s awards to know that. Simply look around the restaurant and you’ll see most of the customers are Indian expats and tourists. What’s more, an Indian band plays every night lending a distinctively Indian atmosphere to proceedings. While the Indian cuisine is the star of the show, the other cuisines here also deserve a share of the limelight. And with several live cooking stations introduced earlier this year, along with a revamp of the restaurant’s design, they’re certainly given just that. This means that alongside Indian Chef
Murugun Vellaisamy, who you can see creating southern Indian delicacies such as Dosa with potato filling, and Indian-meets-Chinese creations like Vegetable balls Manchurian, you’ll also see Japanese Chef Yuki Yasu Takama creating sushi and sashimi (try his creative Aburi Sushi which features delicious grilled toppings), and Thai Chef Sairung Kheedkhun preparing local favourites and innovative dishes which change daily.
IT’S A DEAL Every Thursday- Sunday (from 6pm-11pm), Coco’s Café is offering its International Buffet Dinner for only B700 per person (usual price B1,400). Daily Breakfast (5.30am – 10.30am) is B500++, and Lunch (11.30am – 2.30pm) is B400 until 30 June 2012. Live Indian music from 8.30pm. onwards.
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Other highlights include a fresh salad bar, a BBQ corner, a pasta station serving Italian dishes with a Thai twist, and a dessert corner where French Chef Frederic Guison prepares Flambé Crepes Suzette fresh to order. Packed with a variety of fillings (cereal, fruit sauce, raisins, sliced almonds) and served with a dollop of vanilla ice cream, they’re divine. The restaurant’s new design features contemporary fixtures and fittings, comfortable seats, and large windows offering views of the hotel’s pool. Bright and airy, the restaurant’s a great place to enjoy an informal breakfast, lunch or dinner with friends, family, or business associates.
Coco’s Café, 9th floor of Bangkok Hotel Lotus Sukhumvit Managed by Accor, Sukhumvit 33, Tel: 02 610 0111 email: res@hotellotussukhumvit.com www.hotellotussukhumvit.com
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REVIEW HIIRAGI
HIIRAGI JAPANESE RESTAURANT
Offering top quality Japanese food for every taste and budget
PROOF that top quality Japanese food doesn’t always have to cost top dollar can be found at Hiiragi Japanese restaurant, Novotel Bangna Bangkok. Located on the hotel’s second floor, this traditional Japanesestyle restaurant serves a mouthwatering selection of sushi and sashimi and Japanese favourites, all prepared by expert chefs using only the finest imported ingredients, and all offered at great value for money.
Here you can tuck into a large plate of imported US Angus beef sirloin steak, cooked Teppanyaki style, for only B790++, which is a fraction of what you’d pay at most inner-city Japanese restaurants for meat of this quality. The sushi and sashimi selections are also exceptional value for money – not just because of the high quality of fish used, but also because of the extremely generous portions.
Order the Gyou Sushi & Sashimi set for B1,200++, for example, and you get enough pieces to easily feed at least three people. Perfectly sliced, diced, and presented, it’s a feast for the eyes just as much as it is the palate. Alternatively opt for the same set using local fish and you pay only B750++. Hiiragi offers 16 different set lunches starting at just B290++, as well as 12 dinner set menus, including the
superb Kobe beef steak set (B1,850), featuring Smoked salmon salad, Imported raw fish platter, Egg stew, Marinated seaweed, Pickles, Dobin mushi, Garlic rice, and a choice of either Green tea or Red bean homemade ice cream. The U.S. Suki Set at B850++ is also a great option, allowing you to cook sliced imported beef and mixed vegetables in a hot pot at your table. If you’re into cooking food at your table, you’ll love the restaurant’s Stonegrill menu. Order from this and a pre-heated stone – sizzling hot! – is placed before you, and you simply cook your selected raw meats and seafood on it without
using any oil. It’s a healthy way to eat and delicious too. For a real treat, try the Mixed Grill (B680), which comes with Beef fillet, Pork tenderloin, and Chicken breast. If you’re really hungry, you can always opt for one of two menus featuring eight exquisite courses specially selected by the chef (B1,200 or B950). And, if you’re only a little bit peckish, you can simply order single items a la carte. Hiiragi’s 20 page menu is loaded with appetizers, sushi, sashimi, salads, shabu shabu, suki, noodles and much more, ensuring there’s something for every taste, and for every budget.
IT’S A DEAL From May 18-27, Hiiragi is offering a variety of tuna dishes starting at just B420++ per dish. Options include Tuna stonegrill, Teppanyaki, Tataki salad, Maki rolls, Tempura, Deep fried Tuna, and Tuna sushi and sashimi. Hiiragi Japanese Restaurant, Novotel Bangna Bangkok, 333 Srinakarin Road. Open daily 11.30am-2.30pm, and 6pm-10.30pm. Tel: 02 366 0505 www.novotelbangnabangkok.com
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REVIEW JOJO
THE REAL TASTE OF ITALY AT JOJO Keeping things simple with a real focus on taste, Jojo serves authentic Italian cuisine at its finest
“DON’T play with your food!” – sound advice shouted by all generations of parents and teachers to kids all around the world. It’s a shame most of today’s chefs didn’t grow up keeping it in mind, though, because if they did, every meal would be a joy. Or at least that’s
what a meal at Jojo at The St. Regis suggests. At Jojo you’ll find no experimentation, no Thai-Italian fusion flops, no minimal gourmet presentation (A.K.A, no playing with food). What you will find are dishes prepared with exclusive ingredients sourced from small Italian farms, and presented with rich naked flavours – just the
IT’S A DEAL
way authentic Italian cuisine should be. The hotel’s Executive Chef, Leonardo Concezzi, is a follower of Italy’s Slow Food movement. This ensures that the production of the ingredients and food is marked by respect for ethnic culinary tradition, and there’s a real focus on preserving natural flavours. Good news for diners is that this approach means Jojo has an unrivalled selection of organic ingredients from Italy, including premium Italian cold cuts, extra virgin olive oil, and a large selection of DOP cheeses, such as Burrata, a delightful buttery soft cheese made from mozzarella and
A two-course lunch special is available at Jojo each day for just B490++. Every Tues from 6pm – 7pm, a glass of wine or cocktail plus a tasting plate of DOP cheese and cold cuts is B499++.
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cream. With cold cuts and cheeses starting at only B450++ per platter, they’re superb value. Jojo is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and offers a different menu at each time. Drop by for the hearty Italian breakfast and you can enjoy a selection of cappuccinos, lattes and espressos plus freshly-baked Tuscan bread and brioches, house-made jams, organic honeys, and warm Italian apple cake. Lunch offers traditional style Italian fare, with highlights such as Angus beef Carpaccio Cipriani Style; Carbonara Tradizionale with egg yolk, parmesan and crispy pork bacon; and Fresh pizzas baked in a wood burning pizza oven (the Tartufo pizza scores high marks here. B690++). The dinner menu kicks things up a gear with a further selection of main courses such
as Fettuccine alfredo served tableside in a wheel of rare Castelmagno cheese (B650++); T-bone beef alla fiorentina; Slow cooked Boston lobster tagliolini (B950++); and Martini Tiramisu (B380++). As well as the superb food, Jojo also boasts an extensive wine list, excellent service, and a choice of dining indoor or out. Visit once, and you may just become a regular. Jojo, St. Regis Bangkok, Level 1, 159 Rajadamri Road, Bangkok. Open daily 6am-11am. Tel: 02 207 7815 email: reservation. bangkok@stregis.com www.stregis.com
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REVIEW VOILA
GOURMET SURPRISES AT VOILÀ! Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvitʼs signature all day dining restaurant offers buffet dining at its best
THERE are four key ingredients that make up a good buffet dining experience – quality, variety, value and atmosphere. Get all four right, and, Voilà!, you’re onto a winner. This is certainly the case at the recently opened Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, whose signature all day dining restaurant Voilà! serves international buffet breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch under a
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superb ‘Cuisine on Stage’ concept – which basically means you can order most of your food from live cooking stations, including a Parisian-style rotisserie and an artisan La Cornue stove. Overseeing the entire operation and ensuring that high quality comes as standard is the hotel’s Executive
Chef Aurelien Poirot. A Paris native who has worked alongside acknowledged masters of French cuisine (such as the legendary Chef Alain Ducasse, owner of the one Michelin Starred Restaurant Il Cortile in Paris), Chef Aurelien has rich experience and this shines through in his approach: every dish on the buffet is presented with just as much flair as the restaurant’s a la carte dishes, and everything is made using only the finest ingredients. As for variety, well, there’s an amazing selection of dishes on offer, ranging from fresh seafood and oysters on ice to Parisian bistro selections (soups and casseroles), flame grilled rotisserie meats, Italian pasta, Asian favourites, and decadent desserts,
airy and elegant to boot. The final ingredient including some amazing at Voilà!, of course, is homemade ice cream. value. And here diners There are also pizzas certainly get that. cooked fresh in a wood Buffet breakfast is fired oven, and a cheese B850; lunch is B995; room boasting a wealth dinner is B1,450; and of premium quality cold Magnifique Sunday cuts and delightfully Brunch is B3,100 with pungent cheeses. On free-flow champagne, top of this, there are also B2,350 with free-flow 100 bottles of wine to spirits and house choose from, including wines; or B1,800 with 25 choices by the glass. free flow soft drinks Seating 128 (half price for kids aged (including a Chef’s Table 6-12). for 12), Voilà! is a big All in all, it’s a operation but diners top quality buffet never feel crammed experience. in because the seating is arranged around a Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, spacious balcony which 189 Sukhumvit Road Soi overlooks the lobby. A 13-15 (between Nana huge floor to ceiling glass and Asok BTS stations). wall also ensures the Tel: 02 129 9999 ext. restaurant is bright and 3303. www.sofitel.com
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GOURMET NEWS
Bangkok Beefsteak & Burgundy Exquisite French cuisine at Le Normandie
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HE Bangkok Beefsteak & Burgundy dining group made a return visit to Le Normandie in April, possibly to see if the poo yai would allow it. We did not attract quite the same numbers found present in 2011 with many notable absentees but those who were available (16 in total) enjoyed a further demonstration of the versatility of the chef, Carlos Gaudencio, and his team. The guests found little changed at Bamboo Bar in the intervening year. However, Joop van Delden sported a blazer that would not have been out of place at Henley, and guest of honour from Adelaide 3H B&B, Mike Roach, donned a tie which was reported to have seen service at Cape Canaveral (on a moon walk?). As last year, some guests made directly for the smoking corner; they knew the hotel lay out did not favour promenaders seeking a quick puff between courses. Serious drinkers sipped on Martin Laurent Champagne until the time came for the convalescents to pick up their walking canes and approach Le Normandie. The sole sinner against the dress code was found a replacement pair of pants in good time. Once the diners had assembled and taken in the contents of the menu, we were served Tulloch Verdelho 2008 (NSW) and a very interesting amuse bouche (parmesan cheese and truffle). A good start, most thought.
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The first course proper comprised several selected mouthfuls (Salmon variations, tartare, confit, mousseline, tiramisu) - yes, we were going to start with tiramisu as well as savoury items! Food spokesman, Mike Usher, had expected an interesting ride but not quite as challenging as this. Many members had already enjoyed Jock’s verdelho but for Reinhard Maurer (wine spokesman) it was a new and original choice. Next up was Crab mousseline, frog’s legs browned in butter, parsley jus - actually only one of a pair of legs – but the mousseline was tasty. It came with Best’s Great Western Merlot 2005 (Barosso Valley) which was found by most to be the pick of the wines assembled for the day, though Reinhard proved to be in a minority finding it a little too acidic for his taste. After a lengthy break and a glass of Lemon sorbet and Champagne, the principal course of the day was presented (Roasted rack of lamb, couscous, harissa, chickpeas and pan-jus). This was served with Nefertari Shiraz 2002, (McLaren Vale) which made its final appearance on our table. The lamb was very tasty with a well-made sauce, although I was not alone in wishing that the lamb had spent a little longer on the grill. For the cheese lovers, there was Brie and Stilton alongside more of that Shiraz or Sandalford’s Founders Reserve Port. Finally those with a sweet taste enjoyed Manjari chocolate cube, basil sorbet (a very large cube of white chocolate, partly filled with sorbet and blackcurrant sauce) which was both innovative and filling. It came with L’Ecru Passito Firriato 2007 (Sicily) a welcomed recommendation from Reinhard. Service throughout was impeccable and our good friend, Oliver Schnatz, Director of F&B, put in several appearances at the bar, the table, and the lobby for which we were most grateful. Le Normandie, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, 48 Oriental Avenue, Tel: 02 659 9000 www.mandarinoriental.com/bangkok
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GOURMET NEWS
Gourmet scrapbook
Last month’s wine events in focus
Confrerie du Sabre d’Or at Rembrandt Hotel ■ Rembrandt Hotel celebrated the noble art of sabrage with the Bangkok chapter of the Confrerie du Sabre d’Or by hosting a brilliant eight-course wine dinner at the hotel’s da Vinci Italian restaurant. The Confrerie du Sabre d’Or is a prestigious association that promotes the art of opening a properly chilled Champagne bottle with a sabre (sword) and the enjoyment of Champagne coupled with a passion for fine dining. Wines and Champagnes on the night were sponsored by Delamotte Brut and italasia.
Fabulous wine tasting with Fin ■ WINE lovers were given the chance to try over 40 superb wines from France as well as excellent selections from Thailand’s very own GranMonte Vineyards at Fin Wine’s ‘ ‘Vive La France’ wine tasting event at Decanter, St. Regis Bangkok. Among the offerings were exquisite labels such as Champagne Rosé Extra Brut 1er Cru AOC, Gonet-Medeville, France (Wine Spectator: 89 points); 1988 Chateau Gilette Crème de Tete Sauternes Blanc AOC, Bordeaux, France (Wine Spectator: 95 points); and 2009 IGLESIA VELLA, Roc Des Anges VdP des Pyrénées Orientales Blanc, France (Robert Parker: 90 points). Specially for the occasion, Chateau Gilette winemakers Xavier Gonet and Julie Gonet-Médeville were on hand to talk more about their award-winning Sauternes.
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After work fun at the Glaz Bar ■ A LARGE crowd of executives ditched their offices and made their way to The Glaz Bar to enjoy the April edition of its popular Afterwork Cocktails and Cones event. Held monthly, the event features selections of tasty tapas, innovative cocktails, and exclusive Swiss Môvenpick ice cream cones. The Glaz Bar is located at Plaza Athenee Bangkok, A Royal Meridian Hotel. For more info see lemeridien. com/bangkokplazaathenee
Chatrium’s perfect marriage ■ CHATRIUM Hotel Riverside Bangkok was the setting for a food and wine match made in heaven when it paired the wines of Australia’s Stonefish winery with the gourmet cuisine of the hotel’s Executive Chef, Andrew Brown.
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GOURMET PERSONALITY
Meet the chef: Leslie Stronach
From shaping the culinary caliber of the world famous Madinat Jumeirah Dubai, to running the kitchens of both the InterContinental and Holiday Inn Bangkok, Chef Leslie has always had a lot on his plate. But, like all good chefs, he thrives on the pressure ■ IF there really is a place on this planet called Hell’s Kitchen, Leslie Stronach may well have been there. It exists, he will say, in two of the most fabulous hotels in the Middle East - the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai. These colossal properties have vast industrial-scale kitchens that cater day and night for thousands of guests and customers from all corners of the globe who expect nothing less than the finest quality cuisine of just about
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every imaginable style. It’s certainly not a place for the faint-hearted. But for five and half years Leslie oversaw this huge operation, leading, cajoling and constantly teaching a massive staff of 66 different nationalities, including 500 chefs, six sous chefs and three executive chefs. “I was in charge of 42 restaurants and bars, as well as a ballroom for 2,500 guests, plus a movable party venue for more than 4,500. We also had a beach location site for another 2,500 people,” explained the Scotland-born chef, who regularly worked 16-hour days and often longer when the hotel hosted a major banquet. One of his biggest challenges was outside catering for a Dubai horse race, which was held one hour’s drive from the hotel and involved some 6,000 spectators. Another outside event of equal size had to be moved to a new location at the last minute when a freak storm washed out the original venue. “We had only 12 hours to re-build the kitchens and move all the food and staff, but we did it,” recalls Leslie, with not surprising pride. The pressure was enormous on Leslie, who says he pushed his body to the limit to keep ahead of the job he held for five and half years. Today, as executive chef of the InterContinental and Holiday Inn Bangkok for the past two years, this cheery 53-year-old heads a more modest operation of a mere 140 personnel. “The pressure here is less than what I experienced in Dubai,” he says. “But we approach everything we do here with the same professionalism and I have time to enjoy what I love doing”. Looking back at his time in the Middle East, Leslie describes it as a fantastic opportunity. “At times I miss the constant adrenaline rush, but it’s good to be away. Bangkok is his home now and he is just as passionate about Thailand as he is with his kitchen. He also has considerably more time to spend with his New Zealand-born wife and their two children. Although he now carries an Australian passport, Leslie’s soccer interest remains firmly in the heart of Scotland as a passionate supporter of Celtic and a member of the Bangkok Celtic Supporters Club. He also supports a children’s charity called Thai Tims.
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Chef Leslie in focus Born and raised in Scotland, Leslie first became interested in cooking aged just 13 when he got a weekend and holiday job at a local hotel. Later he began an apprenticeship at Royal Darroch in Aberdeen. His first culinary posting was in St. Moritz, Switzerland. In his pursuit of a wealth of culinary expertise, Leslie has worked in the UK, Norway, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, China and Dubai. In each location he has honed his skills with various styles and techniques particular to different cuisine types and indigenous flavours. In 1989, he was named “Australian Chef of the Year.” This distinction propelled his career with placements in several leading hotel groups in Asia, including the Palace Hotel in Beijing and The Peninsula, Bangkok. As Executive Chef of Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur, in 2001, Leslie was awarded the Chef-of-theYear award by the Chef ’s Association of Malaysia. He then led his team to culinary victory in the prestigious Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) Black Box culinary challenge in Singapore in 2000, and then the World Finals in Kyoto, Japan two years later. After returning to Australia for 18 months, he moved to Dubai to join The Jumeirah Beach Hotel, followed by The Madinat Jumeirah before his current assignment at InterContinental and Holiday Inn Bangkok. Leslie has been in Bangkok since 2010.
“Those who see Indian as a culinary adventure could find a reassuring guide in Indus. Not only is it an ambiant spot where beautiful people flock to be seen, the kitchen does a good job serving up much lighter versions of the usual favorites like biriyani, kebabs, tikkas and seafood. they also have a beautiful backyard where you can enjoy your appetizers with cocktails.” BK magazine
Sukhumvit Soi 26 Tel: 02-258-4900 www.indusbangkok.com
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GOURMET Q&A
Bar Banter
This month: Simone Galiazzo Wine Pub’s Italian Sommelier lets us in on a few trade secrets
What do you think about Bangkok’s wine scene? Well I haven’t been here that long, but Bangkok is great city and around every corner there is something new to discover every day. I’m sure I’ll have great fun discovering the wine scene. What are Wine Pub’s highlights? The laid back atmosphere and high quality food (including the AOC Cheese and cold cuts) and wines available for reasonable prices.
When did you first join Wine Pub and what made you decide to work there? I started working at Wine Pub at the beginning of March. Many people told me that Wine Pub is the bar which really kick started the wine bar trend in Bangkok – it really is the city’s first wine pub. So being given the chance to bring my knowledge and experience to Wine Pub was a great opportunity for me, and too good to miss. What’s the best thing about being a Sommelier, and why did you want to become one? The best thing about being a
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sommelier is that you don’t just learn about wine, but you also learn about everything else in the world of gastronomy – coffee, water, food, whisky and much more. I became sommelier when I was 20. Like most people in F&B I started my career in restaurants as a waiter, but over time I discovered a passion for wines and knew I wanted to be a sommelier. Is this your first time working in Thailand? Yes it is! I thought it would be a good idea to come far away from Europe to improve my world experience.
What kind of crowd does Wine Pub attract? Wine Pub draws all kinds of customers – from people who are passionate about food and wines to people who just want to have a great place to relax. We really have something for everyone. What nights are best to visit and why? Depends on the occasion, but if you are looking for a romantic night then Sunday to Thursdays are good. If you want to enjoy a party atmosphere, then drop by on a weekend. Whatever day you come, you’re sure to find some great deals on food and wine. Wine Pub, Pullman Bangkok King Power, 8/2 Rangnam Road, Thanon-Phayathai, Ratchathewi, Tel: 02 680 9999 email: hotel@pullmanbangkokkingpower.com
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GOURMET NEWS cut out and keep
Recipe of the month
Feijoada – meat and bean stew
Edmilson Azevedo, guest chef this month at Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park, shares his recipe for a real Brazilian treat Method
Ingredients • Black beans 100g • Calabresa (Brazilian Sausage) 30g • Cachaca (Rum) 50ml • Beef jerky 100g • Oil ¼ tbs • Salt ¼ tbs • Black pepper ¼ tbs • Chopped onions 1 pc • Orange (whole) 1 • Chopped garlic 50g • 2 Bay leaves • Pork meat (spare ribs, belly, pig’s trotters, tail) 100g • Parsley and spring onion chopped (for garnish)
do
zeve Chef Edmilson A
1. Immerse the beans in water overnight 2. Immerse the beef jerky in water overnight 3. Cook the beans in water for 45 minutes or until soft. Strain and keep aside both water and beans 4. Cut the beef jerky into small pieces 5. Clean and rinse the pork meat, dry and cut it into small pieces 6. Add some water in the pan, cook the beef jerky and pork for 45 minutes 7. Add beans, bay leaf, whole orange and Cachaca. Simmer for 40 minutes or more until the beans are soft 8. Add Brazilian sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes 9. Sauté the onion and the garlic in hot oil then add into the stew 10. Taste the flavour, add water (if necessary) 11. Stir until the liquid is thicker. Every so often give the mixture a stir and add water, if necessary 12. Pour the “feijoada” in a bowl. Garnish with parsley or spring onion and serve it with rice steamed kale and farofa
About the chef
BORN in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Chef Edmilson Azevedo has enjoyed a culinary career which has seen him wowing diners with his Brazilian cuisine at restaurants all around the world. Today, he works at the Crowne Plaza Gurgaon in India where he heads the kitchen crew at Wildfire, the country’s only authentic Brazilian Churrascaria restaurant. From May 7-14, Chef Edmilson will be taking charge of the kitchens at Panorama restaurant, Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park, to prepare a wide range of authentic Brazilian dishes, just like this recipe here. For more info Tel: 02 632 9000 www.crowneplaza.com
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GOURMET DINING OUT
Where to eat
Your ultimate dining companion
Recommended restaurants and bars American cuisine
French cuisine
Great American Rib
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Ribs, pulled pork and BBQ chicken, staples in the Southern United States, are the specialities at this casual spot. Accompaniments include cornbread, curly fries and coleslaw. Although there is an a/c dining room, most people opt for the authentic picnic tables outside, cooled by giant fans. Portions are gargantuan, the management amiable and the beer never stops flowing: an ideal spot for the entire family to spend a casual night on the town – American style. Sukhumvit Soi 36, midway between Sukhumvit Rd and Rama IV Rd (BTS Thonglor) Tel: 02 661 3801
Harvey
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Harvey features Californian cuisine served up in sleek, modern and decidedly posh surroundings. California is noted for its wide variety of fresh fruits and produce, and an equally wide variety of ethnic groups. The developing cuisine from this state reflects this diversity, making it a fusion lover’s delight. The menu ranges far and wide, but most dishes are memorable and well presented. This is rapidly becoming one of the city’s most popular spots. Drop-in and see what all the excitement is about.
Thonglor Soi 9, 300m from Soi Thonglor (BTS Thonglor), Tel: 02 662 9911
Bourbon Street
•AFTER 25 years in the same
Le Vendome
•The quality of Bangkok’s
French restaurants has improved immensely in recent years and Le Vendome is one of the big reasons. The pleasant setting includes a garden, and private rooms for special functions. If you are looking for signal French food served with élan and presented with pizzazz, this is where you’ll find it. Although relatively expensive in the evening, the set lunches are a fantastic bargain at around Baht 500. Try them once, and you’ll be back in the evening for the Full Monty. Sukhumvit Soi 31, just past the Soi Sawasdee junction (BTS Phrom Phong – but it’s a hefty walk), Tel: 02 662 0530
Reflexions
•Reflexions offers con-
temporary French food in modern surroundings. It’s open for casual lunches and relaxed, but mildly elegant, dinners. There is live music from 19.00 – 22.00 each evening to add ambience. Don’t expect traditional French dishes, the menu is contemporary with a great deal of emphasis placed upon presentation. The service is efficient and friendly.The entertainment and atmosphere make this a good place to spend the entire evening.
Plaza Athenee Bangkok, Wireless Rd, 200m from Ploenchit Road (BTS Ploenchit), Tel: 02 650 8800
D’Sens
•This restaurant puts to
location on Sukhumvit 22, Bourbon Street Restaurant and Oyster Bar, Boutique Hotel recently relocated to Soi Ekkamai. Bourbon Street remains Bangkok’s only 100% owned and operated American restaurant with the specialty of the house being famous Louisiana “Cajun/Creole” dishes. Highlights of the menu include Boiled “live” crawfish, Blackened redfish, Jambalaya, Gumbo, Blackened crab cakes and many more “New Orleans” favorites. If you haven’t tried this cuisine, Bourbon Street is a must visit.
rest arguments Bangkok is a backwater restaurant town. Dusit Thani Bangkok has teamed with Jacques and Laurent Pourcel, operators of a two-star Michelin restaurant in Montpellier, France, to create D’Sens. Located on the top floor of the hotel, the restaurant is lavishly decked out in red and has beautiful views of Lumpini Park and the city. The food, as expected, is expensive, but superbly executed and presented. The wine list at 550 bottles is one of the most extensive in the city.
Soi Ekkamai (near Ekkamai BTS station). Tel: 02 381 6801-3 email: info@bourbonstbkk.com www.bourbonstbkk.com
Dusit Thani Hotel, Junction Silom and Rama IV Rds (BTS Saladaeng or MRT Silom), Tel: 02 200 9000 ext. 2449
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Indian cuisine
Mexican cuisine
Indian Host
Coyote Bangkok²
•If you’re looking
for authentic Indian cuisine, this is the place for you. The menu follows traditional North Indian recipes with dishes that are rich in flavour and aroma. There’s a wide range of exotic curries, succulent Tandoori meats, mouth watering vegetarian dishes and much more to please you here. Set over three floors, Indian Host has a warm atmosphere and the service is spot on. Home deliveries are also available.
Sukhumvit Soi 22, (between BTS Asoke and Phromphong) Tel: 02 260 1115-6 email: PR@indian-host.com, renu@indian-host.com www.indian-host.com
Hazara
•Elegant drinking
and Indian dining in culturally interesting surroundings, created by a company with outlets in Bangkok, Shanghai, Beijing and Jakarta. The serene setting is an eclectic mix of wood, artifacts, plants and Thai inspired architecture. The menu specializes in items from Northern India, including numerous dishes from the tandoor oven. Before dinner, most patrons have a drink in the nearby bar that also services a delightful Thai restaurant. Hazara is ideal for those seeking a peace haven from Bangkok’s excesses while enjoying a memorable meal. Sukhumvit Soi 38 (BTS Thonglor), Tel: 02 713 6048 www.facebars.com
Indus
•A large bar, enter-
tainment and restaurant/coffee shop complex featuring Indian and Kashmiri food. The décor attempts to create a feel for the Indus Valley Civilization. The food is excellent and includes some great curries and a signature Chicken Tikka Kati Roll. Thai and snack items are also available in the coffee shop. DJ music and cocktails are available in the entertainment area. If you are looking for a complete night on the town with Indian overtones, this is a good choice. Sukhumvit Soi 26, 400m from Rama IV Rd, 1200m Sukhumvit Rd just past Four Wings Hotel (BTS Phrom Phong, then taxi) Tel: 02 258 4900
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equila, Margaritas and Mexican food are what this place is all about. The tequila collection is the largest in Thailand and over 75 different margaritas are served. The menu is diverse and not only possesses the requisite Tacos, Enchiladas, and Burritos, but also more elaborate items like Empanadas Carnitas - cornmeal pastries stuffed with spicy pork and a roasted tomato salsa. Although popular at lunch, the Coyote really howls in the evening when the after work crowd stumbles in for margaritas and a bite to eat. The best news is that there are now two branches – one located on Convent road, and one near the entrance of Sukhumvit Soi 33. Coyote on Convent: Convent Road, about 100m from Silom Road, (BTS Saladaeng) Open daily 11.00 - 01.00 Tel. 02 631 2325 www.coyoteonconvent.com Ladies Night on Wednesday, 6-8pm and Saturday 10-midnight. Coyote Sukhumvit: near the corner of Sukhumvit Soi 33 (BTS Phromphong) Open daily 11.00-01.00 Tel. 02 662 3838 www.coyotebangkok.com. Ladies Night on Thursday, 6-8pm.
Thai cuisine Ana Garden Restaurant Bar and Grill
•Ana Garden has been provid-
ing delicious Thai and barbecue food for more than 10 years. There are plenty of daily specials and drinks promotions to tempt you here. Sit back and enjoy the unique atmosphere created by a lush, tropical rainforest setting and you’ll feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city. For an evening of escapism and fine food, head to this restaurant and you will not be disappointed. Make a night of it and follow up your meal with boozy cocktails in the restaurant’s ‘Groove Kitchen’ nightclub. 67 Thonglor between Soi 1 & 3, Sukhumvit Road 55, Tel: 02 391 1762 email: anagarden55@yahoo.com www.anagarden.com
Baan Khanitha & Gallery
•Baan Khanitha, an award-win-
ning restaurant, has made its mark by rigorously insuring its food is consistently well-prepared. A wide variety of Thai dishes are offered, many reflecting the taste of owner Khanitha Akarnitkul, formerly a designer of women’s clothing. Classics are the Yam Som-O (spicy pomelo salad with shrimp and chicken) and Pla Krapong Phad Khee Mao (stir-fried sea bass with chili, hot basil, and eggplant). There is an art gallery on the site and ample parking. A sister restaurant can be found on Sukhumvit Soi 23.
South Sathorn Road at Soi Suanplu (MRT Lumpini), Tel: 02 675 4200 www.baan-khanittha.com
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GOURMET DINING OUT
International cuisine
Italian cuisine The Dubliner
•As Sukhumvit’s oldest
Irish Pub, The Dubliner is to many a home away from home. It has an authentic feel with a wood finish covering the three floors, all tinged with rustic Gaelic memorabilia, making this pub “Pure Irish.” The Dubliner isn’t just a pub that serves food but is a fully fledged restaurant whose kitchen staff adapted their culinary skills to preparing and presenting traditional Irish favorites as well as dishes with an international flavour along with a range of Thai dishes. The pub’s atmosphere lends itself to a casual approach to dining but the menu range is far from casual.
Rossini’s
•Great food with a prominent Italian chef at the
helm. The Sheraton takes this restaurant seriously and insures the quality is always first rate. The setting is that of an elegant Italian farmhouse with an open hearth. Not the sort of place to go dressed in shorts and a T-shirt for pizza and pasta. This is a restaurant to take that special someone you are trying to impress. The menu is a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes. The latter vary with the season, the ingredients available, and the whims of the chef. Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Hotel, 250 Sukhumvit Rd (BTS Asoke or MRT Sukhumvit) Tel: 02 649 8888
440 Sukhumvit Rd, Tel: 02 204 1841-2 www.dublinerbangkok.com
Jameson’s
•Offering an extensive
selection of hearty, traditional pub grub, Jameson’s is a great place to enjoy an authentic taste of the West. Burgers, fish and chips, and spicy hot wings score good marks here. For brave diners, there’s also the pub’s ‘Hot Wings Challenge.’ This offers prizes to anyone who can eat eight spicy chicken wings in under ten minutes. The spice level: a whopping 200,000 on the Scoville Scale – which is probably like dipping your tongue into malten magma. Ouch. Other draws at the pub include four pool tables, 12 widescreen TVs, and the Minus 5 Ice Bar, where you can sip vodka in a large freezer room. Jameson’s Irish Pub and Minus 5 Ice Bar Bangkok, Holiday Inn Bangkok, 931 Silom Road, Tel: 02 266 7703-5, email: info@jamesons-bangkok.com www.jamesons-bangkok.com / www.minus5bangkok.com
100m Wine & Bistro
•
Creative cuisine and delectable wines are served in style at this modern restaurant on the 22nd floor of the S31 Sukhumvit boutique hotel. Sit at any of the well-dressed tables and you’ll enjoy a stunning view of the Bangkok cityscape, a breathtaking sight which is especially stunning at night when the urban jungle’s buildings light up like modern day fireflies. From the kitchen come gourmet creations which blend Italian and French flavours to exciting effect. Pan seared yellowtail loin fish, Sous vide lamb loin, and Pan seared foie gras are all must tries. And sweet lovers shouldn’t miss the Panna Cotta, which has a delicate balance of cream and fruity flavours; a real sweet treat to be savored. S31 Sukhumvit hotel, 545 Sukhumvit 31, open daily 4.30pm – 10.30pm. Tel: 02 260 1111 ext. 2302 www.s31hotel.com
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Biscotti •At Biscotti, great
Italian food is prepared under the watchful eye of diners and an Executive Chef from Italy – almost half the dining room is filled with a massive open kitchen. Located in the middle of Bangkok’s business and shopping action, Biscotti offers a set lunch with a buffet for appetizers and desserts plus a cook-to-order main course. In the evenings, things are more subdued and formal and you should gussy up a bit. Biscotti is noted for its excellent wine list, numerous special wine dinners and exemplary service.
Four Seasons Hotel, Ratchadamri Rd (BTS – Ratchadamri), Tel: 02 250 1000
Opus
•Set inside a wonderfully
renovated villa on Pan Road, this delightful wine bar and restaurant serves top class Italian cuisine and boasts a walk-in wine cellar with over 500 different Italian labels – easily the largest selection in Bangkok. Owned and managed by Italian wine-expert Alex Morabito, formerly of Zanotti, the restaurant is classy and sophisticated yet it still retains a homely atmosphere. Chef Christian Martena, who honed his skills working at Spain’s three Michelin Star restaurant El Bulli, brings talent, creativity and experience to the kitchen, and he creates a wide range of contemporary Italian cuisine which wows all of the senses. 64 Pan Road, Silom (BTS: Surasak). Open daily 6am – midnight. Tel: 02 637 9899 email: info@wbopus.com www.wbopus.com
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FEATURE THAI LAW
Legal problems in Thailand? A lawyer knows best, of course Maxmilian Wechsler gets some sensible advice from a Bangkok legal eagle
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Somphob Kongwan, owner of Somphob Tax and Law Office on Silom Road
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MOST foreigners in Thailand have only brief dealings with government institutions, such as when extending visas or work permits. And they usually do so with the help of their company staff, or a specialist outside business, or perhaps a Thai friend or spouse. But there are other times when expats may need professional legal help, such as setting up a company, or in situations where their freedom and future are in the hands of Thai officials – when they are involved in a serious car or motorcycle accident or even arrested for a criminal offence. Since the majority of foreigners here cannot converse or read well in the local language, and have only minimal knowledge of the country’s laws, dealing directly with officials can be very uncomfortable and even frightening. In such situations, to save time and trouble, and for peace of mind, it is best to appoint a local lawyer from the outset. So says Somphob Kongwan, a lawyer who has helped hundreds of foreign clients since setting up Somphob Tax and Law Office on Silom Road in 1993. The firm now has a staff of 20, including 12 lawyers who are fluent in English, and has a policy to offer initial consultation free of charge. “Most of our clients want to invest and to do business in Thailand. They are individuals and small or medium size companies, and about 80 per cent are men,” says Mr. Somphob. Although he takes only foreigners as clients, he sometimes assists Thai friends free of charge. He says he has no need to advertise as some lawyers do. “People find me through word of mouth.” Mr. Somphob decided to become a lawyer after witnessing many injustices by the village head and other officials against poor farmers in his small upcountry farming community – including his own family. “I decided to study law so I could defend poor farmers against such abuses,” he says. Before forming his own company, Mr. Somphob worked several years for the international law firm of Baker & McKenzie as a counselor in charge of immigration and naturalization services. “We have many lawyers in Thailand, but many of them don’t actually practice, especially in the area of business law, which is important if Thailand wants to attract foreign investment,” he says. Mr. Somphob has no plans to use his position as a springboard to becoming a judge, prosecutor, government officer or to work for a private company, as many lawyers do. He says the trend amongst lawyers to move to other professions impacts on the quality of lawyers in Thailand.
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Investment Most of Mr Somphob’s clients seek advice on how to invest or form a company, or on tax planning. The company also writes contracts and performs other legal services such as advising on expanding businesses, acquisition and mergers. In terms of investors, the majority of his clients today are from Asia, including Australia. Investors from Canada, Europe and the United States are down because of the economic situation. “We’re still getting some European clients, mainly from France and Germany, along with American companies and US private citizens because of their country’s unique business treaty with Thailand, which allows them to invest 100 percent in most types of businesses in Thailand. “They can even form a company in the service sector.” Few foreigners understand Thailand’s legal system, says the lawyer. Translations of the laws are difficult to follow and amendments are often not included in appropriate books. As a result, he regularly deals with foreigners who have been naive and allowed themselves to be cheated. “We firstly discuss the nature of the problem and then give them advice on how to proceed. And we’re not talking here about worthless or grossly overpriced jewelry, but more serious cases such as when foreigners transfer money to Thai partners who then disappear.” In such a case a complaint will have to be filed with the police.
Dealing with police Mr. Somphob claims that government officials and police behave very differently if a foreigner is accompanied by a lawyer when filing a complaint. “It is not wise for foreigners to go to the police on their own – and it’s actually better if they don’t even go with a lawyer, unless absolutely necessary. “We won’t let them go to the police station. We handle this by ourselves and conduct the case on our client’s behalf. The officers are more formal and ask us first what the problem is. It doesn’t make much difference if the lawyer is a man or woman,” says Mr. Somphob. “We don’t deal with embassies; we do everything according to the Thai legal system. “I can say that the police will genuinely try to help foreigners because this is the nature of the Thai people. However, when a foreigner files a complaint for cheating, for example, it depends on the specifics of the case whether the police will want to get involved, aside from the question of legality. When a large amount of money is involved they may provide help, but in more minor cases they might not be interested.”
Forming a company
Registering a company in Thailand is not difficult, continues Mr. Somphob “provided the person or company has a clear business and investment plan. “The Thai law generally requires that Thai shareholders hold more than 50 per cent of a company, but in certain businesses the law allows foreigners to invest more than 50 per cent or even fully own a company. For example, if you want to set up a manufacturing business and produce something for sale locally or export then we can apply for a promotion offered by the Board of Investment (BOI) that allows you to invest 100 per cent, and you can even apply for a land license to build the factory. “Individual expats wanting to start their own business should be aware of the various conditions that must be satisfied. For instance, they have to be based and conduct the business here. They need a work permit, and there are conditions attached to this: The registered capital of the company has to be at least two million baht, fully backed by cash, and they must employ at least four Thai staff. These are the basic conditions. Of course they also need a valid visa. “When applying for renewal of a foreigner’s visa the Bureau of Immigration will look into the salaries of both Thai and foreigners’ employees, along with tax paid. “Some foreign business owners complain that they are required by law to make a profit, and this might not be so easy when a business is just starting up. The immigration and labor departments look into the essence of the business and how much revenue is generated per month or year. If you are showing a loss, especially for more than a year, the immigration or labor department might not renew your visa and work permit. This makes it more difficult for foreigners. “But there’s a solution in the case of the company not making profit. You can always go abroad to apply for a visa outside Thailand but still keep your work permit and renew it with the labor department, as they are not so strict concerning the profit. You can go abroad every three months to apply for a visa. “It takes about one month to form a company and another month to get the visa and work permit.
“We have many lawyers in Thailand, but many of them don’t actually practice, especially in the area of business law, which is important if Thailand wants to attract foreign investment,”
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FEATURE THAI LAW
Entertainment spots “Foreigners who run bars or other types of entertainment businesses sometimes get into trouble and come to us for advice and assistance. For example, in some areas a permit is required to have live music, issued by the police department. “Entertainment spots like those along Silom Road, which are run out of shop houses, often have a problem with the landlord. This is because if you lease for more than three years the law requires that the lease must be registered at the land office. If you sign a lease for longer than three years but don’t register with the land office, the lease will be binding only for three years. The landlord is sometimes not comfortable with having the lease registered with the government because they don’t want to disclose the revenue or income they get from the lessee. “Sometimes there are clauses in the lease that result in government fees or red tape as well, so if you want to invest in an entertainment business or bar I strongly suggest hiring a lawyer and give him the full plan of your investment.”
Property problems “We have many cases where foreigners have been cheated in real estate transactions, like buying condominiums. They should seek a lawyer’s representation right from the beginning. “We have cases in the court going back to five or six years. At that time many luxury condominiums were sold which existed only on paper. Now, years later, the projects are still not finished, and in some cases were never even started. I know of one foreigner who bought a unit for 50 million baht that is still not finished. I don’t want to name the project. We’re not talking about a naïve foreigner. The one who paid this kind of money is a businessman who has invested money in many countries. But he transferred 50 million baht to a developer he trusted. “Every foreigner who intends to buy a condominium in Thailand should appoint a lawyer before deciding on a purchase. The lawyer will
Intellectual property “We are heavily involved in intellectual property (IP) work. During the past few years this issue has been very important in Thailand.
International companies who want to expand businesses and invest in Thailand need to protect their IP rights, especially in terms of the trademarks,” says Mr. Somphob. “We mainly deal with brands from China, Malaysia and Australia, carrying out functions like registering the trademark and extending. We usually don’t work with the brand name owner directly, but through IP or law firms in other countries who ask for our help. The products concerned include mainly clothing brands. Trademarks are protected in Thailand on a 10 year basis, so registration must be renewed every 10 years. “We represent brands who want to sell their products in Thailand. Trademarks, logos or brand names have to be protected country by country. They may be registered in their own country already, but if they want to expand and sell in Thailand, they need to get protection under Thailand laws.” Mr. Somphob says that his lawyers don’t accompany the police or other authorities on raids for IP violations, although they are associated with lawyers who do it.
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Investment funds Foreigners are not allowed to run or be employed by investment funds in Thailand, says Mr. Somphob “There are several laws involved and permission is required from the Security Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), and it is not easy even for Thai nationals to operate this kind of investment company,” said the lawyer. Yet illegal investment funds are uncovered and it is likely that there are several such outfits operating in Bangkok at this time, he added. “Foreigners use Thailand as a base and hire other foreigners to call or email people abroad to transfer money to invest with them. They operate a very sophisticated system and have methods to trick people into believing that they are dealing with a reputed investment company,” he explains.
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conduct a “due diligence” examination of the property – checking the condition of the building and making sure the project doesn’t have any hidden problems, such as high debt. “If you are the first person to buy the condominium, you are required to pay a lump sum of money into the ‘sinking fund.’ This is one-time payment to be used in the future, for example to repair the swimming pool. It is paid to the juridical person who is, according to the law, assigned to look after the whole building. This artificial person can sue or be sued. “Every unit owner must put money into the sinking fund, normally 500 to 600 baht per square meter. This is paid only once, and it has nothing to do with the developer. If the condominium is 10 or 20 years old the sinking fund may not be adequate, or it may be gone already. Therefore, the new buyer needs to have assurance that someone is looking after the building. “Another possible area of concern is the common area management fee that every owner must pay on a monthly basis. This is used for routine maintenance and cleaning of common areas, and also paid to the juridical person. Maybe the common area management fee is not enough to maintain the building. In this case you might spend ten million baht for your unit but not want to stay because everything is dirty and not well maintained. You are stuck. “So before you decide to put your money down, you should contact a law firm and get a thorough assessment of the project.”
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Crime and punishment If a foreigner commits a crime in Thailand, the punishment will be the same as for a Thai national. As a rule his firm doesn’t get directly involved with illicit drugs and other criminal cases, but works with a partner litigation law firm which employs trial lawyers. “Initially, we had several such cases, which were handled by one of my colleagues. But he left for another firm and we now hand over criminal cases to them because that is their specialty, including cases involving drugs,” says Mr. Somphob. Asked why many law firms don’t like to handle drug-related cases, he says it is because it is hard to defend the suspect or win the case. “I understand this point, and sometimes it is very difficult to deal with the police in the initial stages. But if the accused person has a good lawyer who can advise him in the beginning what to do and knows the actual facts of the case and the relevant laws, the difficulties the person might face with the police or the courts can be minimized. “If the person is arrested for drugs he or she should have some type of legal protection. Even though they are unlikely to win the case in the end, it will be helpful to them in many situations. It is always better to have legal representation than going into the dark side of the tunnel alone. “Getting bail for a foreigner facing drug charges depends on whether the drugs are for personal use or intended for sale or smuggling. If it is for personal use the case is not so serious and there is a good chance bail will be granted.’’ Mr. Somphob said his firm doesn’t conduct investigations or get involved in surveillance.
Practising law in Thailand Vehicle accidents When a foreigner is involved in an accident where a person is injured or killed, the police will want to question him or her even if the accident is not their fault. “My recommendation to anyone in this situation, whether or not it is their fault, is to get a lawyer immediately. I’m not saying that the police will try to ‘get’ something from you, but you should have a lawyer to represent you in the process of investigation, especially if someone dies. In such a case the police must conduct a thorough investigation. “If you don’t have a lawyer you may be asked to sign some documents in Thai, which isn’t such a good thing for you to do. Right from the beginning, never sign any documents whatsoever. There could also be some influence coming from the family of the deceased. Actually, in the case of a serious accident, a Thai person should hire a lawyer as well,” says Mr. Somphob. “If you are a foreigner and you are involved in a criminal case or serious accident, you will have more difficulties than a Thai person. While there’s a case pending, your passport will be seized until the case is resolved. This will prevent you from leaving the country. Even while the case is with the prosecutor or in the court process, they will keep the passport. If you have a need to leave the country – whether for business or a personal reason – you will have to ask permission from the court.”
“Twenty years ago, when I formed my law company, business was booming. We worked all day and all night. There was a lot of work and we could make a lot of money as well. Then as now there weren’t too many lawyers around. “During the economic crisis in 1997, a new area in business law was surfacing which many Thai lawyers at the time were not familiar with. In fact, there weren’t even laws on the books concerning the restructuring of businesses. “We understood that when there was a problem the company had to declare bankruptcy. We made a lot of money then as we helped several companies to survive and not go bankrupt under the new laws of rehabilitation. “If you ask me whether being a lawyer in Thailand is a good and rewarding occupation, I will tell you this: The law profession is a good one but you should not be in it for the money. Money is not the first priority; it is dignity and the trust of your clients. If your clients trust you they will admire you and recommend you to others. If you want to become rich in a short time, do something other than practise law. In fact lawyers can do well in other businesses because they know the laws and the regulations of the business game and know how to invest wisely.”
Some final advice “I often see communication problems between foreigners and government officers, and many government officers are not truly knowledgeable of the laws they work under. They may only know certain points of the laws they are in charge of but not the whole system or not the whole process. “I would strongly suggest that foreigners who want to stay here for a long period should consult a local lawyer who is fluent in English before starting any business, buying a condominium or taking any other major step.”
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Jokes ENTERTAINMENT HUMOUR
Got a great joke? email us at: thebigchillimagazine@gmail.com
THE NAME GAME
THE boss asked a new employee his name. “Stuart,” replied the young man. The boss scowled. “I don’t know what kind of namby-pamby place you worked at before, but we don’t use first names here. In my view it breeds familiarity which ultimately leads to a breakdown in authority. So I always call my employees by their last names only – Smith, Jones, Brown etc. They in turn refer to me only as Mr. Harvey. Understood? Right. Now that we’ve got that straight what’s your last name?” “Darling,” replied the man, “my name is Stuart Darling.” “Ok, Stuart, the next thing I want to tell you is…”
RUPERT’S BOY BRAND JAMES Murdoch has proved such an embarrassment to his dad, there are already rumours Rupert is going to close him down and relaunch him as his Son On Sunday. – Charlie Brooker
BIRD AND BURGLAR
JOKE OF THE MONTH
A BURGLAR broke into a house and started to search for valuables. As he did so, he passed a budgie in a cage and the bird said: “I can see you and so can Jesus.” The burglar paid no attention and continued ransacking the room. Again the budgie called out: “I can see you and so can Jesus.” The burglar still ignored the budgie but the bird repeated: “I can see you and so can Jesus.” The burglar decided that he wasn’t going to be intimidated by the bird. “What are you going to do about it?” he snarled. “You’re only a budgie.” “Maybe,” replied the budgie, “but Jesus is a Rottweiler.”
HTS THOUG E OF TH MONTH
1. You have to take your hat off to your barber. It makes it easier for him to cut your hair. 2. My postman keeps stopping work to tell me jokes. To be honest, his delivery is awful. 3. I’m going to get an Oscar next year for my movie, The Fartist. It’s silent, but deadly. 4. My mate told me he was starting a new ska band. I told him ‘That’s Madness.’ 5. Just watching a film about a man who breaks his leg – it’s got a brilliant cast.
TRACING THE PAPER THIEF
A SHERIFF walked into a bar and said: “Has anyone seen Brown Paper Jake? He wears a brown paper hat, a brown paper waistcoat, a brown paper shirt, brown paper boots, brown paper pants, and a brown paper jacket.” The bartender said: “What’s he wanted for?” “Rustlin.’”
TECHNO SHOES
I SAW a Dutch bloke looking lost and I offered to help. He said: “No thank you, I have a sat-nav built into my shoes.” I said: “Clever clogs.” Send your jokes to thebigchillimagazine@gmail.com
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Y O U R U L T I M A T E W H A T ’ S O N G U I D E F O R M A Y 1 2
What’s on
pArt pPerformance pSport pFootball pMovies & Albums pBooks
He’s yours...Jason Mraz and his band are coming to perform at Impact Arena. Page 89
Simply Frank Richard Shelton’s back to perform renditions of Frank Sinatra’s hits Page 88
Going Gaga
Lady Gaga’s ‘ElectroMetal Pop-Opera’ is finally here Page 89
Sail away
Top class sailing and awesome parties at Samui Regatta Page 90 TheBigChilli 85
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WHAT’S ON THE ARTS
Exhibitions
MAY 7 – JUNE 29 EAT ME RESTAURANT
CRYPTOART
BANGKOK based Spanish artist The Raf satirically reinterprets iconic masterpieces from the canons of art history. No artist is sacrosanct in Raf’s public defacement, whether ancient Greece’s Discobolus launching his lobotomized brain, God tickling Jesus to an erection a la Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, or a car crash piling into Munch’s The Scream. Eat Me Restaurant, next to the Carmelite Monastery on Convent Road, Silom. Open daily 3pm-1am. Tel: 02 238 0931 Eatmerestaurant.com
UNTIL MAY 19 NUMBER 1 GALLERY
BEYOND DESIRE
MATERIAL desire comes under the spotlight in this latest exhibition by Manit Srisuwan, whose works suggest that the quest for material, rather than spiritual, fulfillment will deliver only pain and servitude. 919/1 The Silom Galleria, Silom Road, Soi 19, email: info@number1gallery.com www.numberonegallery.com Tel: 02 630 3381, 081 567 9671
UNTIL MAY 23 LA LANTA FINE ART
EVOLUTION
CHINESE contemporary artist Lu Jun returns to Bangkok to present his new body of work featuring photography and a video installation. A recipient of 2009 Florence Biennale’s Gold Prize in Photography, Lu Jun is best known for his genre-blending technique of capturing movement of ink in water. 245/14 Sukhumvit Soi 31, Klongtan-Nua. Open Tues – Sat, 10am – 7pm. Tel: 02 204 0583 email: fon@lalanta.com.
UNTIL JUNE 3 ROTUNDA AND GARDEN GALLERY
PRATHAMESH – A NEW BEGINNING
SMITA and Vandana’s premier exhibition showcases 30 bright oil paintings highlighting the various depictions of Lord Ganesha, the world renowned elephant-headed deity. Neilson Hays Library, 195 Surawong Road. Open daily 9.30am-6pm. Tel: 02 233 1731 www.neilsonhayslibrary.com
UNTIL JUN 12 GALERIE N
FRIENDS X ENEMIES
GRAFFITTI, inspiring illustrations, and a massive wall painting are just a few of the highlights of this new contemporary exhibition by the 18-artist-strong FOR Group. Taking ‘the opposite’ as their theme, each artist created artworks in their own techniques and styles, with exciting results. Wireless Road opposite Lumpini Park, 300 m. from Lumpini Metro Station. Open Tues – Sun, 10am – 7 pm. Tel: 02 252 1592 www.galerienbangkok.com
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MAY 22 – JUNE 24 DOB HUALAMPHONG GALLERY
JUXTAPOSITION
EXPLORING the concepts of emotional instability, fear and distrust in today’s society, Thanwa Huangsmut’s striking oil paintings are bound to hit a core with all viewers. DOB Building 4F, 318 Rama 4 Road. Tel: 02 237 5592 www.ardelgallery.com
Q&A: KHUN TINNAKORN KASORNSUWAN WE GET THE STORY BEHIND ‘ONCE UPON A TIME’
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO CREATE ‘ONCE UPON A TIME?’
I get ideas and inspiration from life in general, from the past and the present. Things like cars, trees and fruits are the symbols I use to tell stories in my artwork. DOES YOUR WORK CARRY A PARTICULAR MESSAGE?
UNTIL JUNE 3 100 TONSON GALLERY
UNCOVER
THAILAND’s art scene welcomes another newcomer with the debut exhibition of Silpakorn University graduate Manut Lao-on, whose self portraits explore his attempt to understand Buddhist philosophy and apply it to his life.
MAY 20 AND JUNE 9 THE BRITISH CLUB, SILOM ROAD SOI 18
WATERCOLOUR WORKSHOPS
BRITISH artist Louise Truslow’s watercolour workshops are suitable for beginners and people looking to refresh their skills. Workshops are B2,400 per day, including lunch and refreshments. For more info email: louise@louisetruslow.com
100 Soi Tonson, Ploenchit Road. Open Thurs – Sun, 11am – 7pm. Tel: 02 684 1527, email: info@100tonsongallery.com www.100tonsongallery.com
MAY – JUNE BLOOM PRO LAB GALLERY
PHOTOGRAPHIC WORKSHOPS
THROUGHOUT May and June ShutterbugAsia will be hosting photographic workshops covering various topics including Documentary Photography, Underwater Photography, Digital Printing Optimization, Creating the Online Portfolio, and many more. Workshops will be held on selected weeknights and Saturdays. For more info about the schedule and workshop fees, visit: www.ShutterbugAsia.com. Bloom Pro Lab Gallery, 2/5-2/6 Soi Silom 19, Silom Road, Bangkok. Tel: 08 2452 8588 email: info@shutterbugasia.com
MAY 25 – JUNE 30 ARDEL GALLERY OF MODERN ART
ONCE UPON A TIME
TINNAKORN Kasornsuwan’s creative paintings and mixed media artworks explore the differences of urban life in terms of happiness, misery, imagination and emotion. For more information about what inspired him, read our Q&A on the right.
In my latest works I applied distortion techniques and vivid colours to present the liveliness and joy of life from the past and present. I want to celebrate life, so I used natural tones normally seen in nature. With this painting style and creative symbols, my collection generally shows the surroundings of our life. WHICH ARTISTS HAVE HAD THE BIGGEST INFLUENCE ON YOU AND WHY?
I have many artists that I look up to. But in terms of the way of thinking, and creativity, Pablo Picasso and Marc Chagall are my favourites. They both have strong influences on my artwork: distortion, creative symbols, and various drawing forms and shapes that arouse a dreamy feeling – away from realism. WHERE IN BANGKOK INSPIRES YOU MOST?
The Faculty of Painting Sculpture and Graphic Arts, Silpakorn University.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG ARTISTS WHO ARE TRYING TO MAKE A NAME FOR THEMSELVES IN THE CITY’S ART SCENE?
Successful artists must know what their style is and know how to identify themselves in their artwork. No matter what story the artist is working on (social, politic, religion, lifestyle, or whatever), each piece of art must show the artist’s identity. Art takes a lot of commitment, consistency and hard work. Create whatever you think you should create. Don’t worry if your work looks similar to others. Just be you and focus on your work. Remember to always have fun with art. For more info about ‘Once Upon a Time’ scan your eyes left
99/45 Belle Ville (moo 18) Boromrachachonanee Road. Open: Tues-Sat, 10.30am-7pm; Sun, 10.30am-5.30pm (Closed on Mon) Tel: 02 422 2092 www.ardelgallery.com
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WHAT’S ON PERFORMANCE
10 hot choices
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MAY 17 BED SUPPERCLUB
JAMES ZABIELA
OVER the last 10 years DJ James Zabiela has played endless gigs the world over, some era defining like his ongoing (eight years and counting) residency at Space in Ibiza to one off shows like Exit Festival 2006. Now, thanks to Champion Sound, he’ll be showcasing his awesome remixes and turntabling wizadry at Bed Supperclub.
MAY 16 – 20 THE LIVING ROOM, SHERATON GRANDE SUKHUMVIT
SIMPLY FRANK – A NIGHT AT THE COPA
SINGER and actor Richard Shelton will take to the stage to perform his superb renditions of Frank Sinatra’s timeless classics, such as ‘Wandering’, ‘By The Time I Get To Phoenix’, ‘Gentle On My Mind’, ‘Rain In My Heart’, ‘Both Sides Now’, ‘Little Green Apples’, ‘Pretty Colors’ and also requests from the audience. Tickets start at B1,500 per person inclusive of two standard drinks. Dinner packages are available. For more info and show times Tel: 02 649 8353 email: dining.sgs@luxurycollection.com
RSVP for 600B entry with two drinks at: www.facebook.com/ events/272781792815919
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MAY 12 CENTERPOINT STUDIO, SUKHUMVIT 105
SUMMER CAMP
SUPERSWEET and Thai fashion house Sretsis have joined forces to host this concert featuring London-based indie-pop duo Summer Camp. The band will play all the tracks from their debut album, Welcome to Condale (produced by Pulp’s bass player Steve Mackey), which is steeped with ’80s synths and tells the story of heartaches, vintage romance and all the things you love about John Hughes’ films. Support acts include Wisut Ponnimit x Ikuko Harada, and Chladni Chandi.
5 MAY 18 - 20 THAILAND CULTURAL CENTER
BSO-OPERA DIDO & AENEAS
Bangkok Symphony Orchestra Foundation in association with B.Grimm and NUNi Productions present Henry Purcell’s Dido & Aeneas, a three-act Baroque opera which tells the tragic love story of Dido, the Queen of Carthage and the Trojan hero, Aeneas. The cast consists of 20 talented singers including Saran Suebsantiwongse, Monique Kongtruadroke and Ayano Kimura. Tickets range B600 – 1,000 from Thaiticketmajor.com. Performances on each night start at 8pm.
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MAY 18 GOETHE INSTITUTE AUDITORIUM
Tickets B1,200 from Thaiticketmajor.com. Doors open 7.30pm.
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YOUNG-HYUN CHO
TAKING a break from her work as Assistant Professor of Piano at The University of Texas at Arlington, this outstanding pianist is coming to Bangkok to perform a programme which includes Liszt - Transcription of Schubert’s Staendchen and Schumann’s Widmung; Paganini - Etude No. 3, La Campanella; Debussy – Estampes; Liszt - Ballade No. 2 in B minor, S. 171; and Chopin: Sonata No. 3 in B minor, Op. 58 Tickets: B500 (Students B250), available at the door. Performance starts 8pm.
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MAY 27 GRAND BALLROOM, MILLENNIUM HILTON BANGKOK
SIMONE KOPMAJER
9 JUNE 1 – 2 MUSIC AUDITORIUM MAHIDOL UNIVERSITY SALAYA
ENJOY the sultry laid-back sounds of Austria’s best-selling Jazz prodigy Simone Kopmajer, who will perform renditions of romantic hits such as ‘Nothing’s Gonna Change,’ ‘I’m Yours,’ ‘Home,’ ‘How Deep is your Love,’ and many more.
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Tickets: B1,500 from Thaiticketmajor.com.Doors open 7pm.
JUBILEE CONCERT
THE seventh Season of the Thai Philharmonic Orchestra continues with a concert celebrating 80 years of diplomatic relations between Switzerland and Thailand. Swiss principal guest conductor Claude Villaret and cellist Pi-Chin Chien join together to for the world premiere of Swiss composer Fabian Müller’s “Sirimadi” for Cello and Orchestra. The program also features Brahms’ Symphony No. 1.
Tickets: B300, B500 (B100 for students). Contact Mahidol University College of Music on Tel: 02 800 2525- ext 154 or 155 www.music.mahidol.ac.th. Performance on June 1 starts at 7pm; June 2, at 4pm.
MAY 25 RAJAMANGALA NATIONAL STADIUM
MAY 26 NEW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF THAILAND AUDITORIUM
WHO IS AFRAID OF THE OPERA?
GHOSTLY sailors, laughing witches, body snatching tree spirits, moonstruck dancers and crazy, fantastic lovers that play with the edge of death – these are just a few of the frightening figures you will encounter at the Bangkok Music Society opera chorus concert, conducted by Eugene Eustaquio and directed by Anette Pollner. Hear fresh, up-to-date interpretations of opera scenes by Wagner, Verdi, Bizet, Mozart and Beethoven, plus excerpts from famous 20th century musicals. Tickets: B600 (B500 for members; B300 for students). Tel: 081 828 4904 or email: contactus@bangkokmusicsociety.org. Performance starts 7.30pm.
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LADY GAGA
NAMED by Pollstar Concert Industry Awards as the Major Tour of the Year, this spectacular ‘Electro-Metal Pop-Opera’ will see Lady Gaga perform her latest album, Born This Way, as well as music from both The Fame and The Fame Monster. Tickets range B1,500 – 7,000 from Thaiticketmajor.com (show starts 7.30pm).
JUNE 16 IMPACT ARENA
JASON MRAZ
YOU’VE heard it on the radio a million times, now here’s your chance to hear it in person. Yep. American singer songwriter Jason Mraz is bringing his band to perform his international smash-hit single ‘I’m Yours,’ and more top tracks from his four studio albums. Tickets range B1,000 to 4,000 from Thaiticketmajor. com. Show starts 8.30pm.
BONUS!
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JUST before going to print we heard Kevin Lyttle will be performing on May 23 at Zaks Wine Pub, Sukhumvit Soi 11. Tickets will be available at Zaks priced B1,500.
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WHAT’S ON OUTDOOR FUN
Sport JUNE 10 PHUKET
LAGUNA PHUKET MARATHON
OVER 5,000 runners and walkers are expected to take part in this year’s Laguna Phuket Marathon, which will begin and end at Laguna Phuket resort. Online registration and accommodation booking is available at: www.phuketmarathon.com
MAY 26 – JUNE 2 CHAWENG BEACH, KOH SAMUI
SAMUI REGATTA
MAY 12 LUMPINI PARK, BANGKOK
CANCER CARE CHARITY RUN
JUNE 3 BANGKOK
SAHAVIRIYA BANGKOK TRIATHLON
RETURNING for the fourth year running, this popular triathlon features a 1,850 swim in the Chao Phraya River, a 55k bike ride on a specially closed expressway, and a run of three loops each of 3.4km. A sprint distance race (850 swim, 27.5km bike,6.6km run) is also available, as well as two Duathlon races: a long course (6.6 km run, 55km bike, 10km run) and sprint course (3.3km run, 27km bike, 10km run). Team entries for the full distance triathlon are also available. For more info: www.bangkoktriathlon.org. Online registration is available at: www.goadventureasia.com
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HELP raise funds for cancer research by taking part in the fi fth edition of this popular annual fun run in Bangkok’s Lumpini Park. Arranged by Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok and the Thai Red Cross Society, with the support of the Canadian Embassy, the event is open to the young and old, fit and unfit (you can walk or jog the course if you like), and features a 5km or 10km route. Registration is from 7am – 7.45pm. Run starts at 8.05am. Minimum donation of B350 includes a Cancer Care T-shirt For more info Tel: 02 126 8866 www.fourseasons.com/bangkok
MAY 20 IMPACT ARENA
LANDLUBBERS and sailors alike flock to this annual regatta which, alongside the final of the Asian Yachting Grand Prix, features some superb cocktail parties and lifestyle events on Chaweng Beach. Over 300 international participants are expected this year, promising some serious live action and plenty of entertainment. For more info: www.samuiregatta.com
MAY 26 - 27 BANGKOK PATANA SCHOOL
BCCT-TESCO LOTUS BANGKOK MASTERS
FIRST kicked off in 2004, the annual seven-a-side Bangkok Masters football tournament has just been getting bigger and better. Last year 40 teams took part, with Ian Rush, John Barnes, Lee Sharpe and Paul Parker all playing for the All Star team. This year’s tournament will feature four categories – over 35s, over 40s, over 45s and over 50s. For more info see: www.bccthai.com
STANDARD CHARTERED EPL MASTERS FOOTBALL THAILAND CUP
FOOTBALLING heroes from yesteryear will strap on their boots once again to prove that they’ve still got the silky skills to shine on the pitch. Participating in the six-a-side tournament will be the Liverpool Legends, Manchester United Legends, EPL All Star Legends, and the Thailand Legends. Alongside the footy the event will feature a range of fun games and activities. Tickets: B1,000 from Thaiticketmajor.com. Matches played 5pm-8pm. For more info: www.footballfocusasia.com
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WHAT’S ON sport
Football in focus
Thai Football in the balance Greed, corruption and cheating – is the TPL about to implode? Football pundit Paul Hewitt examines what’s happening in the world of Thai football
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WE are now into the fourth season of the ‘new’ Thai Premier League.’ Four years since the relaunch of the top flight resulted in rocketing attendances; the growth of clubs such as Muangthong United, Bangkok Glass and Buriram United (formally ‘PEA’), and unprecedented media interest in the domestic game. It hasn’t all been plain sailing since 2009; of course, there have been teething problems and controversies. But this year those problems are mounting more than ever, prompting one to mull the possibility that the whole house of cards may fall down and leave us back where we started pre-2009.
Of chief concern right now among Thai football fans is the increasingly antagonistic war of words between Buriram United supremo Newin Chidchob on one side and Worawi Makudi’s TPL and FAT on the other. The conflict commenced when Newin pointedly, and publicly, asked TPL president Dr Vichit Yamboonreung what had happened to the TV rights revenue from the screening of live TPL matches. Millions of baht owed to clubs hasn’t been paid according to Newin. Embarrassingly, the doctor was stuck for an answer. The plot thickened when it was revealed Siamsport Syndicate – the major
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player in Thai football media, owned by Muangthong United chief Ravi Lohtong – was managing the TPL’s TV rights and other financial matters. Newin wondered out loud whether most clubs were aware of Siamsport’s role within the TPL corridors of power. Apparently, they weren’t. And Siamsport, caught in an uncomfortable spotlight, was compelled to step down from its position as de facto TPL accountant-cum-financial advisor. Cynics may, at the very least, raise an eyebrow at the sight of Newin Chidchob highlighting financial irregularities and the spectre of corruption, but in Thailand’s hierarchical society – reflected in Thai football – Newin is perhaps the only person with sufficient power, money and influence to be in a position to criticise Worawi and co. And if it’s true that revenue which should have gone to clubs has been siphoned off elsewhere, then the issue of the identity of the person raising the matter is relatively unimportant. What’s important is that it has been raised. The performance of referees and their assistants is another ongoing problem. At their worst they make some games unwatchable – turn them into an unprofessional farce. Early in the season we had BEC Tero Sasana being prevented from making a perfectly legitimate substitution because an official had misunderstood the new 3+1 foreign player rule. At Chiang Rai United v Thai Port, the hosts played for about five minutes with twelve men on the pitch. At Chainat v Muangthong, a young linesman gave some awful offside decisions, all in favour of the home side. In one incident the ‘offending’ player appeared to be a good metre onside. The assistant in question was actually banned by the TPL for his display. At Nakhon Ratchasima v FC Phuket in League 1 (new name for Division 1) the referee failed to award a penalty for a wild two-footed lunge from behind on Korat’s Marcel – an incident later described as “the most obvious penalty and red card you’ll ever see” on one Thai football blog. But the referee awarded neither. And so it goes on.
The referees have always been poor, but their substandard performances have been even more noticeable this season. Is it just ineptitude? Or is it something deeper – and darker? Was the referee just being incompetent when he didn’t award a penalty to TTM at Thai Port for a screamingly obvious shirt pull? Or did he not fancy giving a penalty against the sometimes fiery hosts late in the game? Was the linesman at that Chainat v Muangthong game just in need of a trip to Top Charoen? Or had his palm been crossed with silver? It’s an uncomfortable question to have to ask, but sometimes it’s difficult to come to any other conclusion such is the stark absurdity of so many decisions made by referees and their assistants. Incompetence would be preferable. That can be rectified with better training and increased professionalism. Corruption would be a much harder stain to erase. And who would trust the people currently running the game to erase it?
The referees have always been poor, but their substandard performances have been even more noticeable this season. Is it just ineptitude? Or is it something deeper – and darker? And the reasons to be doleful don’t end there. Injury-feigning is now at epidemic levels. It’s the worst this writer has seen in any national football league at any level anywhere in the world; blatant, transparent time-wasting and cheating that the referees seem only too happy to indulge. But the coaches and the players deserve most of the blame for this one. It could stop tomorrow if the coaches and players wanted it to. Why the players can’t just do what they are paid handsomely to do – i.e. play football – is a perennial mystery to many Western fans of Thai football. Then there’s the 3+1 foreign player rule: teams are permitted a maximum of four foreigners on the pitch providing at
least one is from an Asian country. A noble idea in theory whereby more Asian players get the experience of playing in different countries and more Thais get to play in their own national leagues. But it was hastily introduced a year earlier than had been expected leaving dozens of highly-paid foreign players sitting on the bench or languishing in the stands every week. Clubs on the move has also been a turn off for fans. It’s always gone on in Thai football, but that doesn’t make it desirable or acceptable. We have tiny BBCU with their few hundred fans playing at the cavernous Rajamangala Stadium; TTM left Phichit for Chiang Mai, and the sorry tales of ‘Esan United’ and ‘Wuachon United’ were told in last month’s issue. Unsurprisingly, Wuachon did eventually get their way and ended up in Songkhla. But all for what? TTM’s attendances are well down on what they used to attract in Phichit as the Chiang Mai public continue to back their local team Chiang Mai FC. Esan United’s attendances are about a quarter of what Sisaket used to achieve, and, so far, Wuachon’s gates haven’t come close to the huge five-figure crowds Songkhla were pulling last year. But before you switch over to the latest EPL game or burn your Thai Port or Muangthong season ticket, let us try to strike an optimistic note in closing with hope for the future of Thai football. Crowds are still rising at many clubs including BEC Tero, Muangthong, Chainat and Bangkok Glass. Chiang Rai United will move into a new stadium soon, and BEC Tero, Chonburi, Muangthong and BBCU all either have plans for new stadiums in the pipeline or are considering a move to a new purpose-built arena. On the pitch, Bangkok Glass and BEC Tero look capable of breaking into the top three triumvirate of Buriram, Muangthong and Chonburi, and League 1 looks even more open with any three from about a dozen clubs in with a chance of promotion. Yes, we can criticise the administrators of the game; we can pull our hair out at the standard of refereeing and be appalled by the antics of certain players. But the decision to support your local club isn’t based on who’s running (or ruining) the game nor on the quality of refereeing. No: you support your local team because it’s the right thing to do and always will be. See you at the game.
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WHAT’S ON SCREEN AND STEREO
Movies & music JUNE 7 SCI-FI THRILLER
PROMETHEUS
DIRECTOR Ridley Scott returns to the Alien universe with a prequel telling the story of a team of explorers who embark on a thrilling journey to the darkest corners of the universe. There, they must fight a terrifying battle to save the future of the human race. Stars Charlize Theron and Noomi Rapace.
MAY 24 SCI-FI COMEDY
MAY 10 COMEDY
AGENTS J (Will Smith) and K (Tommy Lee Jones) are back once again for another ‘out of this world’ adventure. This time Agent J has to travel back in time with the young Agent K (Josh Brolin) to save his partner, the agency, and the future of humankind.
ALL the American Pie characters return to East Great Falls for their high-school reunion. In one long-overdue weekend, they will discover what has changed, who hasn’t and that time and distance can’t break the bonds of friendship.
AMERICAN REUNION
MEN IN BLACK 3
MAY 31 FANTASY
SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN
KRISTEN Stewart plays the only person in the land fairer than the evil queen (Charlize Theron) out to destroy her. But what the wicked ruler never imagined is that the young woman threatening her reign has been training in the art of war with a huntsman (Chris Hemsworth) dispatched to kill her.
Movie screenings are subject to change. Keep up to date at movieseer.com
MEMORYLANE
NEW MUSIC STRANGELAND
KEANE
KEANE says its fourth studio album will be more like its first two efforts, rather than 2008’s self indulgent ‘Perfect Symmetry.’ The album will feature 12 tracks, including first two singles ‘Silenced by the Night’ and ‘Disconnected.’ (Release date: May 7)
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A JOYFUL NOISE
GOSSIP
PRODUCED by Brian Higgins (who’s worked with Kylie Minogue), Gossip’s fi fth studio album, its first in nearly three years, promises to be brimming with house-tinged tunes perfect for the dancefloor – a real joyful noise. (Release date: May 14)
MAGIC HOUR
SCISSOR SISTERS
BONO called Scissor Sisters the world’s greatest pop band. And its fourth album, featuring cracking first single ‘Shady Love’ and collaborations with Diplo, Pharrell Williams and Calvin Harris, should only cement that well deserved reputation. (Release date: May 28)
TOPPING THE UK CHARTS MAY 1992
1. Shut Up & Dance – Raving I’m Raving 2. Guns ‘N’ Roses – Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door 3. Kris Kross – Jump 4. Sisters Of Mercy – Temple Of Love 5. Richard Marx – Hazard 6. En Vogue – My Lovin’ 7. 2 Unlimited – Workaholic 8. Metallica – Nothing Else Matters 9. Cure – Friday I’m In Love 10. Shakespears Sister – I Don’t Care
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The Annual General Meeting of The Bangkok St Andrew’s Society will be held in the Suriwongse Room of the British Club on Silom Soi 18 at 7:00 P.M on Monday May 14th 2012. NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Any full member interested in standing for election to the committee, please send an email to Mike Brooks, Honorary Secretary, at mbrooks64@hotmail.com who will respond with details on how the committee is elected. The Bangkok St Andrew’s Society is the oldest loyal society in Thailand established in 1890. For over a century the Society was only open to members of Scottish descent and now openly welcomes Associate Members from all nationalities from anyone who has an interest in anything Scottish. If you are not already a member and would like to attend the AGM please join on-line on our website or come along to the AGM before it starts at 7pm and complete the membership forms. The Society has a number of events throughout the year including an Annual Ball, Children’s Highland Games, Burns Night Supper, Golf Events and Pub Nights to name but a few. A great place to meet new people within the Society and from our fellow Societies in Thailand. Details of the society can be viewed on our website www.bangkokscot.com where you will also find contact details should you wish to join the society or send us an email. We look forward to hearing from you.
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WHAT’S ON BARGAINS GALORE
Tradeshows
May 6 – 9 IMPACT
Rotary International Convention
MORE than 38,000 Rotary delegates from around the world will converge on Bangkok for this four day convention. The comprehensive programme of events features keynote speeches, dinner cruises, cooking demonstrations, and an opera. www.rotary.org
May 9 – 11 BITEC
Horti ASIA
INTERNATIONAL Horticultural and Floricultural production companies will present all the latest processing technology at this large scale fair. www.hortiasia.net
May 12 – 20 IMPACT
Super Car & Import Car Show SHOWCASING some of the world’s fastest – and most expensive – cars and motorcycles, this tradeshow also has agents selling second hand cars, and other shops selling car stereos and accessories. www.unionpan.com
May 12 – 20 IMPACT
Thailand’s Paradise Fair
A SHOPAHOLIC’S dream come true, this huge tradeshow is divided into eight different zones: Furniture Fair; Wedding Fair; Fashion, Jewelry & Food Fair; Beauty, Spa & Health Fair; Book Fair;
Super Car & Import Car Show; Housing & Property Fair; and Family & Child Fair. www.unionpan.com
May 17 – 20 IMPACT
Money Expo 2012
WELL-known commercial banks and financial institutions in Thailand showcase their loaning and investing services. Open on May 17 from Noon – 9pm; May 18 – 21 From 10am – 9pm. www.moneyexpo.net
May 10 – 13 QSNCC
Wonderful Thailand Wonderful World
EXPECT plenty of deals on travel packages of all kinds at this comprehensive fair. Open each day 10am - 8pm. www.thailanddiveexpo.com
May 10 – 13 QSNCC
Thailand Golf and Dive Expo
GOLF and diving packages for popular destinations in Thailand go on sale at specially reduced prices. Open each day 11am – 9pm. www.thailanddiveexpo.com
May 17 – 20 QSNCC
Pet Expo
WATCH fun animal shows and shop for pet-related products and services from over 200 manufacturers. www.petexpothailand.net
May 26 – June 3 BITEC
Home and Décor
ENJOY special discounts on all kinds of stylish furniture and home decorative items, home electronic appliances, wedding packages, fashion and jewelry, and more. www.worldfair.co.th
May 26 – June 4 QSNCC
Homeworks and Power Buy sale ENJOY big discounts on products from HomeWorks, Supersport, Power Buy and B2S. www.qsncc.co.th
June 1 BITEC
Jim Thompson Sale
JIM Thompson’s famous Thai silk goes on sale with special discounts. www.jimthompson.com
June 6 – 8 IMPACT
Thailand Travel Mart Plus
TAKE advantage of special discounts on a large number of domestic travel products, packages, and services. Open each day 9am – 6pm. www.thailandtravelmartplus.com
Open each day 10am – 9pm. www.impact.co.th
June 14 – 17 QSNCC
Wedding Fair by Neo
BILLED as Thailand’s most comprehensive one-stop wedding fair, this event will feature over 30 hotels and catering services, along with over 100 wedding-related businesses, all offering their services at special low prices. www.thaiweddingfair.com
June 16 – 17 IMPACT
Technology Street
THIS exhibition will showcase robotic and automation technologies and feature work by high school and vocational students. Open each day 10am – 6pm. www.impact.co.th
The details: • Impact Convention Center, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Road, Banmai Subdistrict, Pakkred District, Nonthaburi. Tel: 02 833 4455 www. impact.co.th • BITEC, 88 Bangna-Trad Road (Km.1), Bangna, Bangkok. Tel: 02 749 3939 www.bitec.co.th • Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, 60 New Rachadapisek Road, Klongtoey, Bangkok. Tel: 02 229 3000 www.qsncc.co.th
June 6 – 10 IMPACT
Thailand Tourism Festival
HEAD here for big savings on travel packages to Thailand’s most popular destinations.
READ THE BIGCHILLI FOR FREE ONLINE www.issuu.com/thebigchilli www.thebigchilli.com
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Social Last month’s best events in pictures
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SOCIAL LAST MONTH’S BEST EVENTS
ANANTARA OPENS IN STYLE
Anantara Bangkok Riverside’s grand opening party will no doubt go down as one of this year’s best events. Featuring complimentary food offerings from Anantara’s properties in the Maldives, Indonesia, China, Vietnam, and UAE, as well as food and free-flow beverages from all of Anantara Bangkok Riverside’s dining outlets, the event was a fabulous showcase for the hotel and guests were truly spoilt for choice. Live entertainment, a fireworks display and a chance to win free accommodation by stamping a ‘passport’ at all of the dining outlets added to the fun.
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SOCIAL LAST MONTH’S BEST EVENTS
MULLIGANS GETS WET
Mulligans Irish Bar on Khao San Road celebrated Songkran with four days of wild and wet parties. Special drinks deals and live entertainment ensured all revelers had a great time.
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X WINE Z CELEBRATES WINE X Wine Z Wine Bar and Bistro on Sukhumvit 39 celebrated the launch of its 11-day wine festival with a wine tasting event featuring over 120 wines from a wide range of international importers. The event was attended by a large number of sommeliers, celebrities and VIP guests. The festival ends on May 5.
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SOCIAL LAST MONTH’S BEST EVENTS
VIVA GARDEN BLOOMS TO FRUITION Viva Garden Serviced Residence by Bliston marked its grand opening with a ceremony attended by many VIP guests and Thai celebrities. Located on Sukhumvit road near Bangchak Skytrain station (BTS), Viva Garden offers an exclusive serviced residence perfect for both business travelers and families seeking the convenience and comfort of a home-awayfrom-home. For more info see: www.viva-garden.com
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ASIATIQUE OPENS WITH A BANG Spectacular riverfront shopping mall Asiatique opened with a huge party featuring lots of food and drinks, live entertainment, and a fireworks display. For more info about what’s on offer see page 17.
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SOCIAL LAST MONTH’S BEST EVENTS
DJ MALIK ALARY AT WINE CONNECTION Famous French DJ Malik Alary took control of the decks for a night of inspired electronic beats at Wine Connection Tapas Bar & Bistro at Rain Hill, Sukhumvit 47. During the event he played tracks from his new album, La Musique Du Faubourg, co-produced with the legendary Stephane Pompougnac.
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WINE CELLAR PACKED AGAIN
Wine Cellar’s first Wednesday of the month wine tasting events always draw big crowds and April’s event was no exception. Every month the tastings feature a different selection of wines to try and even a selection of tasty nibbles. For more info see www.winecellarbkk.com.
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SOCIAL LAST MONTH’S BEST EVENTS
MOVERS AND SHAKERS CHARITY NETWORKING The March edition of the Movers and Shakers Networking Event, sponsored by the Tulip Group and held at the Astor Ballroom of the St. Regis Bangkok, was attended by around 200 guests who all enjoyed swapping contacts while enjoying plenty of eats and drinks. Don’t miss this month’s event, which will be held on May 30 at the Siam Kempinski Bangkok. For more info: moversshakerscharity.com
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PLATINUM FASHION AT NOVOTEL Novotel Bangkok Platinum hosted its first fashion show this March with designers including F Fashion Paris, Phavini, JT, Uma Jewelry, Nathalie Joubert, Sujata Jimmy, Swaness and Sajinee Srichawla. The celebrity-studded event was a huge success, and more fashion-focused functions are already in the planning.
TREE HUGGING FUN AT PULLMAN Staff and management of Pullman Bangkok King Power, led by GM Marc Begassat, took part in a series of fun activities to help raise cash for Accor’s “Hug a Tree Campaign,” which is raising money to plant trees in Khao Yai.
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SOCIAL LAST MONTH’S BEST EVENTS
ROTARY’S KIDS DAY OUT
Rotary Club of Bangkok South (RCBS) recently held its annual Kids Day Out, taking a total of 300 disabled and orphaned children from the Pakkred Home, the Ram Intra Home for the Blind and the Baan Khru Noi Orphanage to the Royal Varuna Yacht Club in Pattaya for a day of fun and entertainment by the beach. Shrewsbury International School were the event sponsors, and the members of RCBS were joined by Rotarians from Clubs in the Pattaya Area, senior students from Shrewsbury School and several other volunteers.
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Glitz and glamour as Oskar turns one
Just when you thought Oskar Bar and Bistro on Sukhumvit Soi 11 couldn’t get any busier it went and threw its first anniversary party. Packed wall to wall with hip gents and glamorous gals, the bar did what it does best and served up a great range of innovative cocktails as the DJ unleashed party-starting beats.
Every Monday Buy 1 Get 1 Free TOP PLACE IN TOWN
Christie’s Club Happy Hours 5pm. to 9pm. Beer B90/drink
Good time Great atmosphere Stylish venue
Catwalk Model Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday 1/1 Sukhumvit Soi 33 Tel. 02-258-5730, 02-258-5728 www.christies-club.com
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SOCIAL LAST MONTH’S BEST EVENTS
HIP HOP LAUNCH FOR BACARDI PLUS
Bacardi launched its new readyto-drink Bacardi Plus drinks line with a special concert at Sofitel So Bangkok featuring performances by Thai Hip Hop bands Thaitanium and Southside and a live set by DJ Spider Monkey. Among the celebs joining the event were Janesuda Pantoe and Pitta Na Pattalung.
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BANGERS IN FINE FORM
Members of the Old Bangkok Bangers rugby club turned out in force for the annual captain’s dinner at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, which as usual featured a hugely entertaining programme of videos, roastings and joint commentary by Roberto Goulo and Andrew Tatam. The buffet dinner was superb and the complimentary beer owed endlessly.
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Diplomats p Meet the people uniting nations
DR. Rachid Bouzennoun isn’t technically a diplomat, but he his a dedicated representative of the Algerian Prime Minister’s party, the National Democratic Rally (RND). What, exactly, does this mean? See page 118 to find out.
Malaysia’s mission An interview with Her Excellency Dato’ Nazirah Hussain Page 114
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PROFILE HER EXCELLENCY DATO’ NAZIRAH HUSSAIN
Malaysia’s Ambassador wins admirers with her eye-catching approach to diplomacy
By Maxmilian Wechsler
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MY first encounter with the Malaysian ambassador was at a reception held for the 54th National Day of Malaysia at Shangri-la Hotel in Bangkok last September. Before the ballroom doors were even opened Her Excellency Dato’ Nazirah Hussain was welcoming Thai and foreign guests in front – a personal gesture which is quite unusual at such events. Many guests were asking who the woman in the hijab was, as she was barely three months into her posting here and wasn’t well known at the time. This has changed dramatically over the last eight months or so, and she has become one of the most active and recognizable diplomats in Thailand. One of ten female ambassadors currently posted in the Kingdom, Ambassador Hussain is the only one who wears the traditional Muslim dress. The colourful and elegant designs she chooses have given her a reputation as one of the most fashionable and best dressed ambassadors in the entire diplomatic corps. Since joining the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in 1981, Ambassador Hussain has held a number of important positions, both in her home country and abroad. These include Assistant Secretary of the Administrative and Diplomatic Service; Principal Assistant Secretary, Policy Planning Division; First Secretary at the Malaysian embassy in China; Deputy High Commissioner to Singapore; and Director General of the MFA’s ASEAN Department in Kuala Lumpur, where, prior to beginning her post in Thailand in June 2011, she also held the position of Director General, Department of Policy and Strategic Planning. Someone who knows the Ambassador well is Khun Narong Vongsumitr, foreign relations adviser to Aziz Phitakkumpon, Sheikhul Islam (Chularajmontri) of Thailand and chairman
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of foreign relations for the Foundation of the Islamic Centre of Thailand. “Even though Ambassador Hussain took up her post not so long ago, everyone in the diplomatic and Muslim communities, as well as in the government, already admires her very much, mainly because she has been so active. She is humble and simple and friendly to everyone,” said Mr. Narong. “For example, when we invited her to one function and arranged a special chair for her, she said: ‘No, no, I like to sit like everyone else. We are on the same level, we are equal. It is the Muslim way.’ “The ambassador will attend almost every event she is invited to, and if she can’t make it she will apologize. Once we invited her to Chiang Mai for a function and she went there even though she had such a busy schedule “She is extremely popular with the Muslim community here. She is very smart and she can quickly recognize a person’s character. She’s made many friends in a short time. “The ambassador is always willing to help. She supported the Islamic Centre in having a teacher for the Malay language,” said Mr. Narong, explaining that this was in preparation for the ASEAN Economic Community which will come online in 2015 and bring a free-flow of goods, services, investments and skilled labor among the ten ASEAN countries. He added that Ambassador Hussain has worked hard to strengthen relations between Thailand and Malaysia. “She has invited many people to visit Malaysia, including Police Colonel Thawee Sodsong, the secretary-general of the Southern Border Provinces Administration Centre. He’s made the trip already. She also invited other people from the South of Thailand to study how Muslims in Malaysia conduct their affairs – how they run associations, foundations, banking, and so on.” The interview with Ambassador Hussain was held at the Malaysian embassy, an impressive compound off South Sathorn Road. In contrast to some embassies where outsiders can be treated with suspicion and not allowed to carry a mobile phone, the security and other staff I met at the embassy were welcoming and polite. The embassy consists of several low-rise buildings. I couldn’t help thinking that the condominiums and office buildings towering above it represent a security risk. The situation is the same at some other local embassies, which are close to tall buildings which weren’t there when the embassies first opened. Ambassador Hussain’s schedule is certainly busy. “I have a lot of duties and activities, including social functions to attend every day, including weekends. We are involved in sports, social welfare and charity events, and things like school openings. I always attend National Day receptions, and diplomatic lunches, dinners, and so forth.” In August, she travelled south to Prateepsasana School in Nakhon Si Thammarat to deliver computers to representatives of five pondok schools.
During the same month she attended a ceremony in which Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman presented a donation of US$1 million to Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra at the Flood Relief Operation Command Centre at Don Mueang airport. In November, the Ambassador toured flooded areas of Bangkok, accompanied by Rev Dhammaratana, Chief High Priest of Malaysia. The Malaysian embassy coordinated with the Islamic Centre of Thailand after the Malaysian government donated daily necessities that were distributed by the Royal Thai Army to flood victims in Ayutthaya province and other areas. In January this year, she presided over the opening ceremony of the Centre for Middle East Studies and ASEAN Community Library at Chiang Mai Rajabhat University. And in April she gave a speech at Chulalongkorn University on water management. She admitted to having little privacy because there are always people around her and often a media presence as well, but said she doesn’t mind. She feels it is a duty and privilege to do her best as the representative of Malaysia in the Kingdom of Thailand. Although Malaysia and Thailand established modern diplomatic relations in 1956, the two countries and neighbours have a traditional relationship going back over a thousand years. “We opened an embassy in Bangkok in 1956 just before gaining independence from Britain in 1957. Today, we have about 40 employees. We also have a Consulate in Songkhla. “The Thai embassy opened in Kuala Lumpur 1956, and has consulates in Penang and in Kota Bharu. “Malaysia is a federation of 13 states and one federal territory with three areas with a population over 28 million.Every state is in charge of its own affairs, except foreign affairs, defense and security.” Malaysia is a constitutional elective monarchy. The King of Malaysia, more commonly referred to as the “Yang di-Pertuan Agong” is selected and rotated for a five-year term from among nine sultans of the Malay states. The other four states that do not have sultans are ruled by governors. “When I began my ambassadorial term in Thailand in June, it was my fifth overseas posting and second position as ambassador. I served previously both as High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and also to Maldives. This time I am ambassador only for Thailand, which is a full assignment in itself. “Bilateral relations between Malaysia and Thailand in all spheres, including trade, culture, tourism and sports, couldn’t be better. My relations with officials from various Thai ministries, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, are excellent. This year there have already been many visits by Malaysian officials to Thailand, including the ministers of Trade, Defense and Transport. “Malaysia is now Thailand’s fifth-largest trading partner, while Thailand is Malaysia’s fifth-largest trading partner. Trade between the two countries amounted to US$ 24.7 billion last year. Crossborder trade accounts for 74 percent of the bilateral trade.”
“Malaysia is affected by the unrest in the South and we are trying to help the Thai authorities as much as we can. We have very good cooperation with the Thai police in matters related to the unrest and also in areas like drug trafficking, stolen or smuggled motor vehicles and other crimes.”
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PROFILE HER EXCELLENCY DATO’ NAZIRAH HUSSAIN
Looking for ec o-tourism? Head straight to Sarawak the most - Probably s Towers a na si ro ay et al P M The g in ed buildin photograph
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and Ayutthaya, we travelled by truck and boat. The Malaysian government helped with cash, water, food and other necessities for the flood victims.” Thailand ’s not the As for the continuing o n re ly countr gion to h y in the ave beau one’s tiful beac on every ia e unrest and the bombings in b ld u hes i sho alays Langkaw hen they visit M Yala and in Hat Yai on March 30, w ry itinera Ambassador Hussain responded: “We have to condemn these bombings. This is terrible. Two of our citizens were killed in Hat Yai and some injured. They were transferred to Malaysia with our Ambassador Hussain said that about 400 Malaysian consulate in Songkhla looking after them. companies have a strong presence in Thailand and her “Malaysia is affected by the unrest in the South and we are government would like to welcome more big Thai firms to invest trying to help the Thai authorities as much as we can. We have in Malaysia. very good cooperation with the Thai police in matters related to the “As we share a border, Thai and Malaysian tourists visit each unrest and also in areas like drug trafficking, stolen or smuggled other’s country in large numbers, over a million a year. There motor vehicles and other crimes.” are many places in Malaysia I would recommend, including On the controversial issue of Islamic Sharia law in Kelantan, Langkawi, the country’s best-known holiday destination. Sipadan one of the Malaysian states bordering Thailand, the ambassador is wonderful if you like to dive, while Sarawak is great for ecosaid: “This is the most conservative of all Malaysian states, tourism, with its rainforests, mountains and huge caves. From but Sharia law is not used for criminal cases, only civil matters Kuala Lumpur, you can take a side trip to the Cameron and like marriage, divorce or other family concerns. Shariah law in Genting Highlands. There’s so much to choose from.” Kelantan, as elsewhere in Malaysia, applies to Muslims only.” When asked what she likes most about Thailand, Ambassador Ambassador Hussain said she doesn’t know how long she Hussain replied: “I like Thai people because they are hospitable, will be in Thailand as there is no set term. “Whatever, I am warm and welcoming. I often travel out of Bangkok and have very happy to be posted in Thailand enjoying every minute. I visited, among other places, Chiang Mai and Phitsanulok in the will continue to work hard to ensure that we strengthen our North and Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Hat Yai and Yala diplomatic relations and bring them to new heights.” in the south. Everywhere I have gone I have been treated very Two days after the interview, the ambassador invited Mr. well. Narong and me for dinner at an Iraqi restaurant on Sukhumvit “I like Thai food, especially spicy dishes such as som tam. I Road Soi 3/1. Wearing an attractive hijab, she spoke at length have a few restaurants where I like to go eat Thai food and we about her country’s development and Malaysian-Thai relations, also cook it sometimes at the embassy, where I live as well.’’ and I again noted the positive spin she puts on every topic, with Asked what she doesn’t like about Thailand, the ambassador few complaints. In her traditional dress she blended easily into said with a diplomatic smile: “I haven’t found anything negative the ambience of this predominantly Muslim area of Bangkok. as yet.” When her black limousine, bearing the distinctive number Although the biggest single event during her stay so far was, plate of an ambassador’s vehicle, arrived at the restaurant to meet unfortunately, last year’s floods, she managed to put a positive spin her, it was a head-turning moment for most of the people on the on the situation. “I saw how the people came together and united to street. For Ambassador Hussain, it was simply business as usual. help each other. When I visited several flooded areas in Bangkok
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DIPLOMAT PERSONALITY
Algeria’s man in Bangkok: DR. Rachid Bouzennoun
By Maxmilian Wechsler
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DR. Rachid Bouzennoun is at the same time a successful Bangkok businessman and a dedicated representative of the Algerian Prime Minister’s party, the National Democratic Rally (RND). A devoted Muslim, he is a familiar figure within the diplomatic community, and rarely misses a National Day reception or other official function. Born 42 years ago to a middle-class family in Algiers, the capital of Algeria, Dr. Bouzennoun studied economics and after university spent a short time on an internship with a company in Hong Kong before returning home. It wasn’t long before he took to the road again, this time to Thailand. He’s lived here ever since, running a successful trading company in Bangkok. “For those who don’t know much about Algeria, it is a Muslim country located in northern Africa, sharing a 7,000 kms border with seven countries: Libya, Mali, Mauretania, Morocco, Niger, Tunisia and Western Sahara. “Politics is in my blood and that’s why I represent the RND, not only in Thailand but in the whole of Asia. I was appointed to my position by a board member of the party who is in charge of the worldwide Algerian community, on behalf of the Algerian Prime Minister. It is a voluntary position. “The RDN is elected by the Algerian people to be one of the three leading parties. We like to have good relations with all political parties in Asia and, of course, with those in Thailand. In
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this respect, we cooperate with the Thai government in political, economic, social and other spheres.’’ Dr. Bouzennoun stays in contact with his family and party officials back home by Skype. “Every morning, when I wake up, the first thing I do is to read Algerian newspapers and watch television on the internet.” When asked if he is married, Dr. Bouzennoun replied without embarrassment: “Nobody wants me.” But this is not entirely the case, according to his friends. “Maybe it is the other way around,” one diplomat said. When asked if he acts as an “unofficial ambassador” for Algeria, he replied: “Every Algerian or citizen of any other nation living away from their homeland is like an ambassador for his or her country and should always try to do the best for their country. “There is no Algerian embassy in Thailand as yet. I hope this will change. We have one in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, which looks after Thailand,” Dr. Bouzennoun said. “I don’t travel abroad as often as in the past, but I travel a lot within Thailand. I have already visited 53 provinces, with 22 left, and I’m sure I’ll visit them before I leave Thailand one day. “While in the provinces, I meet with various people and want to know how they live, what is good or bad and what we can learn from this country in terms of agriculture, tourism, et cetera. As I am a Muslim, I meet with people from the Muslim communities, of course. “I have also visited southern provinces, like Pattani and Narathiwat, and have found that Muslims there are the same as those I’ve met in other parts of Thailand. They are very nice and hospitable, not just to me because I am a Muslim, but to everyone. “The problem in the South is very unfortunate and I hope it will be solved soon. The people in the South don’t like violence. They are against violence, just like people in other areas. Security for them is very important because when you feel secure then you are happy and comfortable both at your workplace and at home.” He believes that Muslims are “the same everywhere, because Islam teaches us the same way. I didn’t find any problems or conflict between the Shia and Sunni Muslims in the South or in other parts of Thailand. We are Muslims and we have one Prophet. “Thai Muslims are part of Thailand and they want to live here. I have never heard Muslims saying they want to separate from Thailand. I hear this only in the media,” Dr. Bouzennoun said. “Many Muslims in Thailand have held or now hold high positions, like the president of Parliament and chief of the Army. Several ministers have been Muslims, and many Muslims have served and now serve in high government positions, or are top businessmen in the country.” Dr. Bouzennoun expressed hope that the government will invest more in education, health care, culture and job creation, in order to provide people with more opportunities.
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He praises Thai people for their religious tolerance: “There is real freedom of religion in Thailand. I have friends who are Jews or Christians, who go to synagogues or church, and they all say the same thing. You can do whatever you want and practise any religion here without worry. I have never had any problem in Thailand because I am a Muslim. “Many department stores, hotels and airports and other places have designated areas where Muslims can pray. Women wear the hijab, and no one here protests this, unlike other countries which are making laws against it,” said Dr. Bouzennoun. “You can see now why so many people from Middle-Eastern countries want to visit Thailand. And many want to stay, because of the religious freedom here.” Dr. Bouzennoun is obviously happy living in Thailand. “I like the people, the countryside and the food. You can go the beaches or mountains. I really enjoyed the celebrations to commemorate the 60thAnniversary of the coronation of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulaydej in 2006. It was amazing to see millions of people celebrating, all wearing yellow shirts. You could see how much the Thai people love the King.” He also praised the wide variety of cuisine in Thailand: “You have so many choices in Thailand. You can eat what you want. What I don’t like is the food cooked on the footpaths. Maybe the food is delicious, but the hygiene is terrible.’’ Dr. Bouzennoun wants to encourage more Thais to visit his country. “Even though there’s no Algerian embassy in Thailand, visa applications can be done online. If approved, you can send the passport to Kuala Lumpur by DHL.” The Algerian community in Thailand is small with not more than 200 people. “Most of them are businessmen, while some are Muay Thai boxers or teachers.
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Asked about his work for charitable organizations, Dr. Bouzennoun said: “I am involved in many charities but I won’t name them. According to our religion this should be kept confidential.” The 50th anniversary of Algerian independence on July 5 will be marked by a number of activities, an Algerian food festival, a photo exhibition and a night of Algerian music.
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FEATURE MOTORING
A pair of two-door beauties from BMW
BMW’s 320i Coupe and Z4 sDrive20i Highline Roadster are now on sale in Thailand. Maxmilian Wechsler took them both for a spin to see what makes them special By Maxmilian Wechsler
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The 320i Coupe button to start the engine, the seat belts were pushed towards us on a mechanical arm making it easier for us to reach them. This function, called “belt handover,” comes only in the 325i Coupe and 3 Series Convertible. I consider it a useful innovation and would appreciate it in all
218 and 245km/h respectively. While the ability to accelerate to 100km 2.6 seconds faster doesn’t mean anything on Bangkok’s congested streets, on the expressway it could be a lifesaver when you are overtaking another vehicle. As for maximum speed, anything over 180km is just for bragging. You won’t – or shouldn’t – be going any faster than that. Even 140km/h is quite dangerous on Thai highways, not to mention that you’re likely to get a speeding ticket from police with radar guns. The 320i is plenty fast, and gets significantly better fuel mileage than the 325i. The boot is big enough for a few pieces of luggage and there are plenty of places inside the cabin to store things. With all the Coupes I have seen on the road in the past few years, I can’t recall seeing one with a passenger in the rear.
BMW models. The external Havana Metallic and interior Cream Beige colour combination of the test model was refreshing, unlike the boring white exterior and red interior still popular with many Thai drivers. Going back to comparisons of the 320i to the more powerful and more expensive 325i, which I had driven earlier, I didn’t notice much difference in acceleration. According to the official BMW, the 320i goes from 0 to 100km in 9.7 seconds, while the 325i takes just 7.1 seconds, while both top out at
But to be thorough, I did check out the back seat and found it quite comfortable. Because of import taxes the 320i Coupe costs more than any of the 3 Series four-door models assembled locally. According to BMW, it wouldn’t be worthwhile to assemble 3 Series here because of the low sales. After cruising the Bangkok streets for a while, we drove to Pattaya to see how the car performs on a longer trip, and after a leisurely two-and-a-half hours we arrived still impressed with the 320i’s comfort. I also noticed that the fuel gauge hadn’t moved as much as in a similar trip in the 325i.
Sporty and elegant, this new motor has plenty of comfort and class BMW320i Coupe Engine type Maximum speed Acceleration 0 to 100km Average consumption (km/l)
Price: 3,799,000 baht In-Line 4-cylinder petrol, 4 valves per cylinder, Valvetronic, Double-Vanos 218km/h 9.7 s 12.4
W
WHEN you first see the BMW 320i Coupe, your first impression is likely to be that it’s both sporty and elegant. Launched in 2006, with a few minor changes in 2010, the car is a looker. And its comfort, handling, finish and other features combine to make it a major contributor to BMW’s record sales, which reached 1,380,384 total units in 2011, with 384,464 of these being 3 Series models. Made and imported from Germany, the 320i Coupe sells in Thailand for 3,799,000 baht. This is 900,000 baht less than the more powerful 6-cylinder 325i model, which also comes equipped with additional features such as a monitor, electric glass sunroof, and cruise control with breaking function. But considering the price difference, I would go for the 320i. Colin Hastings, publisher of The BigChilli, joined me riding shotgun on this road test because my regular partner and Collin’s daughter, Nina, wasn’t available. After we eased into the comfortable seats, closed the doors and I pressed the
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FEATURE MOTORING
Z4 sDrive20i Highline Roadster With a new four-cylinder engine and twin power turbo producing 184hp, this is one powerful beast Z4 sDrive20i Highline Roadster Engine type Maximum speed Acceleration 0 to 100km Average consumption (km/l)
To be honest, I didn’t miss the monitor, the cruise control or the sun roof that come with the 325i, but on the Bangkok-Chonburi Tollway, I did notice the car seemed a little slower when trying to overtake. Colin also noticed the lack of speed and said the car was possibly underpowered. He also found the suspension too hard. Unlike me, Colin was unimpressed with the belt hand-over function, and complained of difficulties in getting out from the car. But he did praise the finishing of the cabin and the layout of the dashboard, which he described as “simple and practical.” A salesman at one of the five BMW dealers in Bangkok said that the big price difference between the 320i and 325i is partly due to Thailand’s tax structure, which goes lighter on a four-cylinder petrol engine producing 158hp than a six-cylinder petrol engine producing 218hp. He said that 320i model is popular with women because the four-cylinder doesn’t take too much maintenance and they feel that 156hp is good enough. I guess I have to agree with the ladies, although I must confess that, like Collin, at times I prefer a car with more muscle. 122
Price: 4,199,000 baht In-Line / 4 / 4 petrol engine with high precision injection, TwinPower Turbo technology (TwinScroll turbo) 234km/h 7.2 s 14.7
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IF you prefer something more powerful faster and sportier, not to mention better equipped, maybe you should opt for the new Z4 sDrive20i Highline, but be prepared to spend 4,199,000 baht for it in Thailand. The BigChilli was the first publication in Thailand to drive the new Z4; the one we were loaned had only 90 kilometers on the clock. Nina was back on board for this road test but declined to drive for fear of damaging the car’s long nose. With a hardtop roof that automatically folds into the boot, this two-door roadster has an aggressive look with a performance that will charm many people, especially younger folks who enjoy driving with the top down so everyone can see them. The new four-cylinder engine with twin power turbo producing 184hp is truly amazing, but quite thirsty, even though the engine is a bit smaller than in previous models. The performance is closer to a 2.5 liter, six-cylinder engine. The car sticks to the road, and driver and passenger sit low. I didn’t really enjoy driving it in Bangkok. This car belongs on the open road, and when we took it onto the highway, we expe-
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The BigChilli would like to thank the management of Siam Kempinski Hotel in Bangkok for allowing us to take photographs of the Z4 in front of the hotel.
rienced what BMW cars are all about: power, acceleration, braking ability and so on. Because of the hot sun, we preferred to keep the roof on, which made it easier to enjoy the excellent sound system. The cabin is perfect, with a well designed dashboard. Everything is made from high quality materials, and extra details like stitching on the seats add to the feeling of luxury. I was little disappointed that the Z4 doesn’t have the belt hand-over system, but it is equipped with monitor, navigation, cruise control and with many other useful options and gadgets, including my personal favorite, iDrive. This device integrates the functions of a large number of switches that can all be controlled from one central point. As for the roof, it took about 22 seconds before it folded into the boot and a little longer to bring it back up. There is a switch for each operation and it must be held the whole time. I really liked the roar of the engine when accelerating, otherwise the car was quiet. It was exciting to know I could overtake just about anything on the road, unless a Ferrari or Lamborghini appeared, which didn’t happen during the three days I kept the car for testing. The storage space is adequate. You can put quite a lot in the boot and inside cabin compartments located in the doors, centre of the console, bulkhead, behind the seats and in the dashboard. One thing I didn’t like were the drink holders in the centre arm rest. Put a can or bottle here and you’re deprived of the comfort of the arm rest. Maybe the cup holders should be placed on the dashboard as in many BMW models, including the 320i Coupe.
A word of caution: Even experienced drivers must be extremely careful when parking close to the footpath. Because the front of the car is long and bulky, it is difficult to estimate the distance, and if you are not careful you’re likely to scrape the curb. Sensors on both sides would solve this problem, but the car has sensors only in the front and rear. Nina enjoyed the road test even though she didn’t drive, and had plenty to say about the Z4. “This is another car that will certainly make heads turn and cause envy among both men and women – not only for the sound of the engine, but also the beauty,” she said. “Like the Maserati Quattroporte S we tested not so long ago, I was reluctant to drive this car. With the long and wide front I knew it wouldn’t be an easy car to drive. Every turn and corner is a test of your driving skills, and I didn’t want to risk damaging it. “The whole interior was impressive, from the detailed stitching on the seats to the simple navigation system (iDrive). The car is low and the sound of the en-
gine is just brilliant! “One of the wow factors of this car has to be the vibrant red seats, which go really well with the white exterior and black dash board,” Nina concluded. The salesman said the only similarity between the 320i and the Z4 is that they are both two-door. He added that those who prefer roadsters are a special breed, with a passion for driving. They are willing to live with the negatives of the roadster’s low centre of gravity in order to experience the added fun it gives. The salesman said, not surprisingly, that the most popular colours for the Z4 are white exterior and red interior, although several other combinations can be ordered. “Later on, we will have a special Highlight model costing 200,000 baht more,” he said. “This will have a yellow exterior and black interior with yellow stitching.” He added that a brand-new Z4 will use more fuel for the first 2,000 kilometers and afterward the consumption will gradually go down, which applies to every BMW model.
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MOTORING NEWS
Rolls Royce makes official Thai debut Famous automaker rolls into town with plans of conquering Asia
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By Maxmilian Wechsler
ROLLS-Royce Motor Cars Ltd., the super luxury automaker based in the United Kingdom, announced on March 5 the appointment of Millionaire Auto (Thailand) Company Limited as its first authorized dealership in Bangkok. The dealership appointment in Thailand is part of Rolls-Royce’s expansion plans in Asia-Pacific region. Herfried Hasenoehrl, Rolls-Royce’s General Manager for Emerging Markets in Asia, spent a couple of days at the 33rd Bangkok International Motor Show (March 28-April 8), in which Rolls-Royce officially participated for the first time, showcasing its Ghost and Phantom cars. Despite a full schedule, Mr. Hasenoehrl took the time to sit down for an interview at the Rolls-Royce pavilion with Maxmilian Wechsler. What is your role with Rolls-Royce? I am based in Singapore and responsible for all the emerging markets in the region, which are India, Malaysia and Thailand. New markets we are looking at are the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and other Asian countries. Why did Rolls Royce decide to open a dealership in Thailand? Because we feel this is the perfect time. Firstly, we have found the optimum partner in Millionaire Auto in Thailand. They have the automotive and overall expertise, and they are already a very successful BMW dealer. The economy of Thailand is so resilient and diverse. The country exports rice, tuna and rubber for example, and manufactures steel and high-tech equipment. The automotive industry is extremely strong. Could you describe the new Rolls-Royce facilities? The showroom is on Rama 3 Road in Bangkok and will be officially opened this month. It’s a very large showroom, containing both sales and after sales facilities. What is your sales target for Thailand? We don’t talk about specific numbers; we never do that. Worldwide, we had a record year in 2011, with over 3,500 units sold. In Thailand, we will have double digit numbers, that’s for sure. How many Rolls-Royce cars are there already on Thai roads? There are from 60 to 80 here already. They were imported through the “grey market.” The authorized dealer will make
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Herfried Hasenoehrl, Rolls-Royce’s General Manager for Emerging Markets in Asia
an official statement as to whether or not the dealership in Bangkok will service cars bought on the grey market. Every market is specific in this regard. However, we encourage every owner to go to the officially appointed dealer, register his or her car and take it from there. What type of customers do you expect in Thailand? One customer group will be actors, politicians and people used to being the object of attention. Another group will be accomplished entrepreneurs. What they all have in common is that they are successful in what they do. What sets Rolls-Royce apart from other luxur y brands in Thailand? There are many fantastic auto manufacturers out there, including another British brand, but what sets us apart is the quality of craftsmanship in the finished product. The other side is what else you get from Rolls-Royce, like the unique experience, the atmosphere and the status. Drive around in a Rolls-Royce and the perception it creates is really special – that the person driving this car has really “made it.”
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Travel
p Deals and news from Thailand’s hottest destinations
Hilton Pattaya is giving diners a chance to win top prizes this month. Page 136.
Mate’s Rates
Friends or family visiting Bangkok? Let them know about these deals! Page 138
Hua Hin
Read more about the town’s best resorts and restaurants Page 128
Pattaya
A round up of hot news and deals from the Eastern Seaboard Page 136 TheBigChilli 125
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TRAVEL BANGKOK
Bangkok
and Beyond
Nikki beach launches new series of wine events
NIKKI Beach Koh Samui’s 2012 Wine Season kicks off on May 24 with a launch party and sunset barbeque on Lipa Noi Beach. In the company of opening winemaker Hunter Smith from Frankland Estates, Australia, guests will enjoy an evening of wine pairings, open-air food and indulgent beachside fun. Entertainment includes an Aussie-style ‘Wine Hunt’ as well as Australian-themed didgeridoo and percussion performances. The event kick starts a series of monthly wine dinner events which will be held until August in cooperation with Fin Wines. Each month will be dedicated to a different theme, country and host winemaker, with weekly specials on individually-selected wines available during each month, plus unique pairings with a la carte food. Entry to the first party is just B700 per person. For more info: www.nikkibeachthailand.com
Bed and breakfast in Koh Chang Exclusive villa experience in Samui
LE Méridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa is now offering a Villa Experience Special package offering stays in its Pavilion Pool Villas for B11,999+++ per night, and Ocean Front Pool Villas at B19,999+++ per night. Rates include daily breakfast, round-trip airport transfer, one-hour’s hotel chauffeur service, complimentary laundry service, and a standard cocktail. Until Dec 20, the resort is also offering exclusive rates for the first two villa bookings of the day. Rates are B9,999+++ per Pavilion Pool Villa and B 15,999+++ per Ocean Front Pool Villa. Rates are per night and include daily breakfast for two persons. Terms and conditions apply. Tel: 077 960 888 email: lemeridien.kohsamui@lemeridien.com www.lemeridien.com/kohsamui
UNTIL May 31, Koh Chang Tropicana Resort & Spa Managed by Centara on Klong Prao Beach is offering a special Web Saver deal starting at B2,350++ per Deluxe Room and B6,200++ per Cabana Suite. Rates include breakfast. An extra bed (inclusive of breakfast) is B1,100++. For more info, Tel: 02 101 1234 ext. 1 email: reservations@chr.co.th www.centarahotelsresorts.com/WebSaver.asp
Silavadee turns four with a deal
Family fun on Samui
Tel: 077 960 555 email: rsvn@silavadeeresort.com www.silavadeeresort.com
Tel: 077 429 100 email: reservations@ickohsamui.com samui.intercontinental.com
SILAVADEE Pool Spa Resort on Koh Samui is celebrating its fourth anniversary by offering a ‘Pay 3 and Get 4’ deal. Stay three nights in any room category and you get an extra room night for free. The same deal applies to the spa treatments – buy three and you get an additional complimentary treatment. Promotion ends May 31.
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UNTIL July 15, InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam on Koh Samui is offering a Family Retreat Package for any family who stays three nights more. Rates for a two-bedroom family villa start at B13,982+++ per night and include daily breakfasts, a 60-minute spa treatment for parents, WiFi internet access, complimentary airport transfer, and more.
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TRAVEL
HUA HIN
Pasta fever at Dune ■ THROUGHOUT May, the rooftop Dune Bar and Restaurant at Dune Hua Hin Hotel is offering a Pasta Fever promotion which includes Spaghetti snow fish & caviar with cream sauce, Fuslli crab meat with pink sauce, Linguini lobster with spicy tomato sauce, Spaghetti porcini & shitake mushrooms with cream sauce, Spaghetti vongole, Spaghetti pesto, and Spaghetti bacon and dried chilli. Tel: 032 515 051-3 email: md@dunehuahin.com
Amari to comes to Hua Hin ■ THE ONYX Hospitality Group is set to open its brand new Amari Hua Hin this June. Located next to Khao Takiab beach, this stylish resort features 223 rooms decorated in a contemporary style and equipped with modern facilities such as in-room iPod docking stations and flat-screen TVs. Resort’s facilities include a selection of restaurants, fitness centre, outdoor swimming pool, Kid’s club, and Breeze Spa and Salon.
Dining highlights at Hilton Hua Hin
For more info: www.onyx-hospitality.com
A touch of Morocco – in Hua Hin ■ THE Moroccan-inspired Villa Maroc resort on Pranburi beach has extended its popular ‘Triple Twenty Treats’ promotion until the end of October. Book a minimum of two-nights and you will get 20% discount on all room types apart from Pool Court (based on leisure rates starting at B15,900++), 20% discount on food at Casablanca Restaurant, and 20% discount on spa treatments at Sherazade Hammam & Spa. For more info: www.villamarocresort.com Tel: 032 630 771 email: rsvn@villamarocresort.com
Gourmet golf at Banyan ■ FEATURING a round of golf followed by a gourmet meal, the Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin’s sumptuous dinner events are not to be missed. Two options are on offer this month – Golf & BBQ Dinner on May 13 (B2,950 per person or B1,500 for food only); and Golf & Wine Dinner on May 27 (B3,300 per person or B1,900 for dinner only). On May 18 the club will host the Banyan Shoot Out, which tees off at 3pm and is played to a nine-hole Stableford format. Entry is B1,500 per person. For more info Tel: 032 616 200 email: reservations@banyanthailand.com www.banyanthailand.com
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■ THERE are plenty of dining deals to sink your teeth into at the Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa this month. Among the highlights are: • A weekend and holiday promo offering all-you-can-eat dim sum for B449 per person at White Lotus Chinese Restaurant. Every Sunday, a Chinese buffet dinner is B899 per adult and B399 per child aged 6-11. • Lotus Sky Bar is offering its Nachos and salsa sauce for the special price of B290 per set. Live DJ plays 7pm-11pm every Thurs-Sat. • The ocean-front Chay Had restaurant is offering two tempting dinner deals. On Mon, diners enjoy a ‘Thai Curry Night’ deal featuring five choices of curry at only B550 per adult and B300 per child aged 6-11. A five-course wine dinner is available on Wed at B1,550 per person. • During the week, The Market is offering different theme dinners. On Mon-Tue, the restaurant offers an authentic Thai Terrace dinner (a la carte only). On Wed, all-you-can-eat pizza, pasta, and salad is B599 per adult B300 per child aged 6-11.On Thurs, the Taste of Siam Thai Buffet is on offer at B599 per adult and B300 per child aged 6-11. And every Sat the International Barbeque buffet is B999 per adult and B450 per child aged 6-11.
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TRAVEL
HUA HIN
Hua Hin Where to eat Oceanside Beach Club Cocktails
La Paillotte
■ Set in the beautiful Putahracsa Hua Hin resort, this relaxing beachfront restaurant offers a great selection of international food, drinks and music. You can tuck into seafood with piquant Thai sauces or devour huge slabs of meat fresh from the grill. The Jumbo Tiger prawns, Rock lobster, and New Zealand lamb chops score particularly good marks here. Other bonuses include a great sea view, and a long list of delightfully boozy cocktails. Open 5pm onwards.
■ This charming French restaurant is the ideal place to enjoy an evening of fine food in relaxed surroundings. The fresh and colourful décor brings to mind citrus-scented Mediterranean evenings, as do the excellent range of aperitifs, wines, beers and digestifs. Although the culinary roots of La Paillote’s cuisine are classically French, the kitchen team enhances a rich culinary tradition with contemporary touches. An a la carte menu and nine set menus are available. Open daily from 11am till late.
22/65 Nahb Kaehat Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 531 470
174/1 Naresdamri Road, 77110 Tel: 032 521025
Papa John’s Grill Restaurant & Beer Garden ■ In business for over 13 years, this popular diner has established a large and loyal clientele of locals and returning holidaymakers. The secret to the restaurant’s success is the owner’s welcoming nature and an extensive menu of good honest well cooked food. Papa John’s is a spacious open-sided restaurant with a bar area ideal for pre-dinner drinks while you survey the excellent selection of dishes on the menu. Try the fillet, T-bone or rib-eye, each very reasonably priced. The ideal venue for European comfort food and a drink with friends. 1/54 Soi Moobaan Khao Takiab, Nong Kae, Hua Hin Tel: 032 514 295
Ciao
■ For lovers of Italian cuisine, Ciao at the Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa is a blessing. The charming beachfront restaurant possesses a style and ambience that few resorts can claim to have achieved. A concise one-page menu offers a carefully considered selection of dishes. The antipasti selection is highly recommended. The platter of Italian temptations is the ideal accompaniment for the fine wines from Ciao’s excellent cellar. The restaurant serves delicious appetizers, soups, salads, pasta, thin crust pizzas, main meat and fish dishes, and irresistible desserts. Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa, 107/1 Phetkasem Beach Road. Tel: 032 511 881
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Beach Cafe Restaurant
■ After a hard week of work in Bangkok you deserve a treat! Watch the perfect day on the beach transcend into a unique candlelit dining experience with your loved one. The restaurant offers excellent steaks and seafood plus an unrivaled choice of cocktails and outstanding wines at reasonable prices. The only non-hotel affiliated restaurant on Hua Hin’s main beach offers great value for money. Soi Hua Hin 75/1 by the sea, Prachaubkirikhan 77110, Open Mon – Sun 10am – 10pm. www.beachcaferestaurant.com
The Veranda Grill ■ The Veranda Grill offers both a relaxed outdoor atmosphere on the beachfront, as well as an indoor dining experience, featuring exceptional views across the Gulf of Thailand. The setting is perfect for sampling some of the sea’s freshest delights. You can choose from a wide selection of authentic Thai cuisine along with continental dishes, all of which are carefully prepared to the chef’s exacting standards. Veranda Lodge, Hua Hin Beach, 113 Soi Hua Hin 67, Petch Kasem Road, Prachuab 77110 Tel: 032 533678 email: huahin@verandalodge.com www.verandalodge.com
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TRAVEL
HUA HIN
Hua Hin Where to eat Chom Talay
Hua Hin Where to drink Dune Sky Bar
■ This delightful beachfront restaurant is a great spot for alfresco dining. Pushed up against the water’s edge it has an easy going charm, good food and drink. The menu features a wide selection of delicious seafood dishes. Of note is the stir fried mud crab with X.O. sauce. A piquant tom yam with fresh prawns, pineapple and the flesh of young coconut offers an interesting variation on a classic dish. Open from 11am till 10pm.
■ Located on the rooftop of the boutique Dune Hotel, the Dune Sky Bar offers sweeping views of Hua Hin and is a great place to drop by for boozy cocktails and tasty international eats. Recently given a New York-inspired overhaul, the bar is stylishly furnished with eco-friendly furniture, including dining chairs made of recycled plastic bottles. Chilled out beats and subdued lighting make this one of the hippest relaxed hangouts in town.
Phetkasem Road, Hua Hin, (next to the airport). Tel: 032 547 253-4
Dune Hotel Hua Hin, Tel: 032 515 051-3 email: md@dunehuahin.com
Rocks Restaurant
Mondo Vino
■ This chic all-day-dining restaurant at the Cape Nidhra Hotel, Hua Hin offers a delectable selection of Italian and French favourites together with other international cuisines and local favourites. Designed to enhance a visitor’s holiday experience, this eatery provides a relaxing atmosphere and great a nice view out over the beach. The breakfast buffet is priced at 600 baht. If you stop by in the afternoon, Pavlova is a must to accompany an English Afternoon Tea set. Open 6.30am - 11pm.
■ This stylish-yet-casual wine bar should be the top of any oenophile’s list of places to visit in Hua Hin. You’ll find a large range of wines from new and old worlds (with an emphasis on Italian brands), available by the glass or bottle at more than reasonable prices. Accompanying the premium wines is a selection of cold cuts, cheeses, fresh hams, pizza, and pasta. Monthly promotions and wine tastings mean there is always something exciting going on here – simply check the website to keep up to date.
97/2 Petchkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 516 600
Tel: 032 531 493 www.mondovino.co.th
Hagi Japanese Restaurant
Sala Wine Bar and Bistro
■ This stylish Japanese restaurant established by the Sofitel Centara Grand Resort & Villas possesses an air of sophistication and understated beauty. Diners can enjoy an excellent selection of contemporary and traditional Japanese dishes, each one beautifully executed and presented with artistic flair. The eclectic menu features sushi, sashimi, noodles, and much more. A 16-seat teppanyaki kitchen turns cooking into theatre, creating a dramatic dining experience. The restaurant has also started to run weekly cooking classes. Open from 3pm - 10.30pm.
■ No visit to Hua Hin is complete without a trip up to Hua Hin Hills Vineyard, home of the award winning Monsoon Valley Wines. Here you can journey into the vineyards to learn more about New Latitude Wines, or simply head straight to the winery’s Bistro, which is housed in a beautiful sala and serves a wide range of Thai and international eats and, of course, Siam Winery’s finest wines. An onsite shop sells premium Thai wines, souvenirs and other quality grape-based products.
Damnernkasem Road intersection. Tel: 032 512 021-38
www.huahinhillsvineyard.com
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Hua Hin Hills Vineyard, Tel: 081 701 8874-5, 081 701 2222, 081 701 0444
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TRAVEL
HUA HIN
Hua Hin Where to sleep Baan Bayan
The Cape Nidhra Hotel, Hua Hin
■ This fine resort features one of Hua Hin’s finest examples of early 1900’s architectural style. The beachfront resort has been faithfully restored to its former glory by the family who once lived there. Guests staying at Baan Bayan can experience the glory of a bygone era in its colonial style structure, yet without sacrificing the modern day comforts and amenities. It has 21 rooms comprising of three suites, 10 sea view rooms and 16 rooms with views of the courtyard or tropical garden.
■ Located in the heart of Hua Hin right next to the beach, this luxury hotel combines comfort and convenience for the perfect escape. Each suite is well-furnished in stylish décor and each has its own private swimming pool. General facilities include a fitness center, a swimming pool, steam rooms, spa, library, and meeting functions. Rocks Restaurant serves up a wide range of international dishes and local favourites, while the beachside bar, and the cigar and whisky bar, mix up some excellent cocktails.
119 Petchkasem Road. Tel: 032 533 544
97/2 Petchkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 516 600
Sofitel Centara Grand Resort & Villas
Putahracsa Hua Hin
■ Set within 13 hectares of landscaped gardens, the property dates back to 1923 and is one of Southeast Asia’s most renowned hotels. The luxurious colonial-era beachfront resort features 207 beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites, each one offering comfort and convenience. The Pool Villas include four Deluxe Spa Villas with queen sized twin bed, lounging area, bathroom with rain shower, and oversized Jacuzzi bathtub. Refined dining is available at Sala Thai, Hagi, the Railway Restaurant, and Palm Terrace. Guests can unwind in the Elephant Bar or Satchmo Club.
■ This stylish resort skillfully marries Mediterraneaninfluenced villa accommodation with the best contemporary Thai interior design flair to create a unique experience. Putahracsa is a secluded sanctuary with 36 SilkSand rooms bordering a magnificent swimming pool and mini beach. Interiors emphasize the ‘sleek and chic’ approach to modern design. The Oceanbed Villas are truly exceptional, providing some of the highest quality accommodation and service in Hua Hin. The resort features a day spa, and superb dining opportunities at Nahb Talay and Oceanside.
1 Damnernkasem Road, Hua Hin. Tel: 032 512 021-38
22/65 Nahb Kaehat Road. Tel: 032 531 470
Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa ■ This imposing resort in the centre of Hua Hin is regarded as one of the best family hotels in the region. Accommodation features comfortable rooms and suites, providing guests with a living space that exhibits contemporary Thai design flair and good in-room amenities. There are also 11 Spa Suites available. The award-winning White Lotus on the 17th floor of the Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa offers sky-high dining at down to earth prices. 33 Naresdamri Road. Tel: 032 538 999
Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa ■ Sheraton brand in Hua Hin is a delightful low-rise resort comprising of 240 luxurious rooms and suites, 56 of which have direct access to a 200-metre lagoon-style swimming pool. Stylish and elegant, they provide a generous 49 square metres of light and airy living space. Facilities at the resort include five restaurants and bars, the highlight being InAzia, the resort’s signature restaurant. Other options include Luna Lanai, a laidback beachfront bar. The Aspadeva Spa offers an extensive menu of massage and body services. 1573 Petchkasem Road, Cha-Am. Tel: 032 708 080
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TRAVEL
PATTAYA
Thai Dinner Buffet
FOR a real Thai feast take yourself along to Café G at Holiday Inn Pattaya. The restaurant is currently offering its Thai Dinner Buffet (served every Mon-Fri from 6pm-10pm) for just B450 per person (inclusive of soft drinks), and free for kids under 12. Special discounts are available for groups of 10 or more.
Tel: 038 725 555 www.dining-experience.com/pattaya
Centara Grand Mirage achieves EarthCheck status
CENTARA Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya has been awarded Bronze Status by EarthCheck, an international environmental and certification body for the travel and tourism industry. The LostWorld-themed hotel was assessed last year and received the award for its ‘highly commendable’ green practices in areas such as energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and water use. www.centarahotelsresorts.com
Royal relaxation at Pattaya Marriott
ROYAL Garden Spa at Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa is offering a special spa package featuring a 60-minute Elemis Exotic Lime and Ginger Salt Glow body treatment and a 30-minute Elemis Mini Facial treatment, plus a complimentary Elemis Exotic Lime and Ginger Hand and Body Wash. The package is B4,500 and valid until June. Advance booking required. Tel: 038 412 120 ext. 1711 email: ms_pmrs@ minornet.com
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Pattaya pampering at Ambura
UNTIL the end of May, Ambura Spa at Sheraton Pattaya Resort is offering a summer spa package ranging in price from B4,500-B8,500 per person. Called “Colour Your Life,” the package includes a 15-minute Aromatic Footbath, a 75-minute Green Tea Body Wrap with Green Tea Purifying Facial, and a 60minute massage of your choice, and a complimentary Seasonal berry and yogurt parfait to enjoy after your treatment. Tel: 038 259 829 www.sheraton.com/pattaya
Dine and Fly at Hilton Pattaya
HILTON Pattaya’s Dine ‘n’ Fly promotion gives diners a chance to win holidays at Conrad Koh Samui, Hilton Kuala Lumpur or Hilton Arc de Triomphe Paris. Simply spend up to B3,000 in the hotel’s restaurants (including in-room service) or eforea spa and you’ll be entered into a lucky draw. Other prizes include a one-year’s eforea spa membership, a one-night stay in a Deluxe Plus Seaview room and eforea spa treatment for two, and a one-night stay in Grand Ocean Suite with dinner for two. Promotion is valid until Oct 16. Tel: 038 253 000 www.hilton.com
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TRAVEL BANGKOK
s ’ e t a M s rate
• Aloft BangkokSukhumvit 11:
amily f r o s d Frien kok? g n a B visiting now about k Let them e deals thes
• The Eugenia: The classic 19th century colonial-styled hotel on Sukhumvit 31 is now offering its Suites from B4,843++. Facilities include a personal butler, a lounge with fine wine and cigars, and airport transfer in vintage car. email: sales@ compasshospitality.com www.theeugenia.com •
The hotel’s ‘Touch Me’ package features accommodation in Fingi powered Touch Rooms (Fingi is a nifty Smartphone device which not only operates the TV and air con, but also acts as a key, has internet access, and even works as a phone) starting at B2,699++ for Chic Touch and B2,999++ for Urban Touch. Rates include 10minutes of international calls per day, a daily non-alcoholic drink, Wi-Fi internet access, and free entry to Bed Supperclub and Q Bar. Booking is available until June 30 and the promotion is valid until Sept 30. Tel: 02 207 7000 email: reservations.aloftbkk@ alofthotels.com www.aloftholtels.com/ bangkoksukhumvit11
• Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square: The
hotel’s ‘Hot Deal’ promotion offers 15% discount off the best unrestricted accommodation rates starting at B2,975++. Only available via online booking at www.novotel.com. Prepayment is required. Tel: 02 209 8888 www.novotel.com.
• Siam City Hotel Bangkok: Until June 30, the
Suites Dreams package features an accommodation rate in Suite starting B4,750++ per person for two persons, a romantic 4-course dinner (inclusive of sparkling crystal), a free 60-minute massage, an in-room international breakfast or at the exclusive Club Lounge, and a late check out. Minimum of two night stays required. Tel: 02 247 0165 email: reservations@siamhotels. com www.siamhotels.com/offers-en.html
JW Marriott Bangkok: Until May 31, ‘The Bon Appetite’ package features rates starting at B7,900++ per Deluxe room per night (includes daily breakfast for two) and two progressive Drink & Dinner meals (for two persons) which will be held each day at a different dining outlet. Minimum two night stay. For more info, Tel: 02 656 7700 www.marriott.com/bkkdt.
• Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit: Until the end of June,
this brand new hotel’s Twelve Magnifique Wishes promotion offers introductory rates starting at B5,500++ per Luxury Room together including one wish per day. Twelve wishes will be on offer, including options such as a rare whisky flight served with canapés, a postcard with a picture of you at the hotel, and in-room continental breakfast for two. Tel: 02 126 9900 email: h5213-re@sofitel.com www.sofitel.com
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• Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok: Until
May 30, the hotel’s Bangkok Splash and Spice package offers two-nights’ accommodation, a dinner for two persons per night at Shintaro or Biscotti, and Executive Club access for two persons. Tel: 02 126 8866 email: reservations.bangkok@ fourseasons.com www.fourseasons. com/bangkok/
• Novotel Bangkok Platinum: Until June 30, this
new hotel at Platinum Fashion Mall is offering introductory rates for its Superior Rooms starting at B3,300++ per room per night (inclusive of American buffet breakfast for two persons). Tel: 02 160 7111 email: H7272-RE@ accor.com www.novotel.com
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Tub Samet House, Rayong
For Rent
Tub Samet, near Rayong, a beautiful twobedroom house with large living space, separate kitchen, balcony and private garden in private and secure compound with direct access to one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the Gulf of Thailand. Only two hours’ drive from Bangkok. Only 20,000 baht per month. For more information email: siamdoll@gmail.com
Bang Saray condo
Fo
rr
en
t
Bang Saray condo, next to the beach, low-rise, large gardens, secure compound, two swimming pool and tennis courts. Ground oor, 2 A/C bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Great community, perfect for families with children. 30,000 baht per month. For more information email: siamdoll@gmail.com
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