The BigChilli Magazine October 2014 by The BigChilli Co., Ltd.

FIND OUT WHAT’S HOT IN BANGKOK

October 2014 Special issue!

Expat MEET THE FINALISTS PAGE 12

06 INSIGHT News, letters, gossip and more 39 GOURMET A round up of all the best restaurant deals and gourmet news in Bangkok 59 EXPAT WOMEN Health, shopping, people, advice and ﬁction 68 UK CALLING Thailand’s largest education fair brings over 90 UK universities and colleges

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79 WHAT’S ON Discover what to do this month with our round up of art, performances, sport and more 93 SOCIAL Last month’s best events in pictures 113 DIPLOMATS Morocco continues to build on long-standing ties with Thailand 119 TRAVEL Find out what’s hot in Pattaya & Hua Hin

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Insight

News|Local interest

Brits face passport scam Rogue websites are hijacking genuine applications

■ BRITISH nationals in Thailand who apply for a new UK passport using the government’s four-day Premium service are in danger of being cheated by Internet scammers who set up official-looking websites to hijack their application and pocket the money. Search engines like Google invariably produce of a host of options to apply online for a passport, including websites with names like ‘ukgov passport support’ that are clearly designed to confuse applicants. To support the scam, such sites often feature impressive coat-of-arms or the Union Jack. Some rogue websites are even listed above genuine UK government passport application sites. Their application procedures are also similar to official documentation. A longtime British expat who planned to renew his passport using the Premium four-hour service during an upcoming visit to the UK was fooled into using one of these unofficial sites. In the end, he lost £117.50 and had to spend another £128 for a genuine passport. “After getting contact details off a website, I called the designated number in the UK and was told an appointment would be booked at the Passport Office in Victoria (London) to get my new passport. 6

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“The man taking my call asked for a UK address and postcode to send an application form, which I provided. He then asked me to transfer money to pay for the passport. As I don’t use PayPal, I offered to send the money via a credit card, which he agreed. After giving him details on the card, he confirmed an appointment had been made. “I thought nothing more until I turned up at the Passport Office in London only to be told they had no record of my name or appointment. “The reception desk knew immediately what had happened. ‘It’s a scam’ they told me. Apparently I was not the first to have fallen for this trickery. “Luckily, the lady at the desk took pity on me and booked me an appointment on that same day, but explained I’d have to pay the fee again – £128, which I paid to the Passport Office after the interview. “Straightaway I cancelled my credit card as I had given this rogue website details which could be used again to extract money. The bank said I’d be able to claim back the money I had spent with the website.” The man now believes that although the scam is known to the authorities, they may not be able to take action because

those behind it may insist they are simply providing a service, including advice and posting an application form. “The fee they charge is notably different from the official fee, so they can also claim that their customers should not mix up the two payments. But one service they didn’t provide was the appointment, which surely makes it illegal.” Four hours after his appointment, the man walked away with a brand new UK passport*. He’s still waiting for the refund from the credit card company. Some applicants based in the UK have hit been hit by a similar scam. One family who lost money was informed that the website they used to initiate the application was operated and owned by a Third-Party form-filling service located offshore in the Caymen Islands, conveniently beyond the reach of the English law. *Although costlier than normal applications, the four-hour service is an excellent way for Brits to bypass the backlog and delays now affecting passport renewals. The only snag is that it is only available in the UK. To verify all applications, call the Identity and Passport Service telephone Adviceline on 0300 222 000.

Publisher Colin Hastings editorbigchilli@gmail.com MANAGiNG editor Adam Purcell adambigchilli@gmail.com editor Nina Hastings ninabigchilli@gmail.com AssistANt editor Chutinanta Boonyamarn nanbigchilli@gmail.com sAles & MArketiNG MANAGer Rojjana Rungrattwatchai sendtorose@gmail.com AccouNt executive Thana Pongsaskulchoti thanabigchilli@gmail.com AccouNtiNG MANAGer Saranya Choeyjanya fatcatbigchilli@gmail.com AccouNtiNG AssistANt Janjira Silapapairson janbigchilli@gmail.com Art & ProductioN Arthawit Pundrikapa, Jaran Lakawat PhotoGrAPhy Mini Bike Gang and WJ coNtributiNG Writers Anette Pollner, Johanna DeKoning, Judith Coulson, Maxmilian Wechsler and 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 Strip_AD_Foodland_Feb14_M4.indd 1

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Insight

News|Local interest

Sukhumvit thefts on the rise In three separate incidents, thieves are employing new tactics to target victims “In Europe, we have pickpockets, but they don’t attack you” ■ THIS is what a Swiss tourist in Bangkok told The BigChilli after being subjected to an audacious assault and theft on the Asok BTS Skytrain station last month. The victim, a businessman in his sixties and a regular visitor to Thailand, was heading for the main public stairs to Sukhumvit Road below when the incident took place. “The station was very crowded and I had become separated from a friend. I was surrounded by other passengers when suddenly I felt a weight on my foot – it was the knee of a man who had somehow managed to crouch down behind me so I couldn’t see him or what he was about to do. “He was extremely strong and having trapped my foot then twisted it with considerable force. I was in agony, especially as I had only recently had a serious knee replacement operation. All I could think about was the pain. “In the confusion, my wallet was snatched from my pocket by, I think, a second man. I wasn’t in a position to do anything as I was in such pain. “Nobody came to my assistance, and it was some moments later that my friend saw that I was in some kind of trouble and came back to help.” The man, clearly shaken by the theft but adamant that it would not deter him from future trips to Thailand, said that the thieves got away with US$1,300 in cash. “Luckily I wasn’t carrying another wallet which contains my passport and credit cards. That would have been disastrous.

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“What upsets me most, though, is the violence of this incident. In Europe, we have pickpockets, but they don’t attack you.” The man reported the assault to the general manager of a nearby five-star hotel where he was staying, recommending that he issue a warning to other guests about the dangers of pickpockets lurking on the streets and public areas next to the BTS stations.

Ladyboys’ too close attention ■ AFTER a few beers in a Bangkok bar, a long-term expat – himself the manager of a local pub – was making his way home along Sukhumvit when a group of three ladyboys confronted him with their trademark promises of a good time and ultra-close attention. Under the effects of a little too much alcohol, the man was far more confused than amused by the group’s cuddling-up tactics. And as quickly as they had converged on him, so they disappeared. The barman soon knew why: the ladyboys had relieved him of his wallet. “I was more angry with myself for not anticipating what was obviously going to happen,” he said with a shrug. “I’ll be more careful next time, if there is a next time.” This group may be the same group that was recently observed towering above a Japanese tourist as he attempted to use one of the ATM machines outside the Pacific Place on Sukhumvit. While there’s no knowing whether the fellow was persuaded to part with part or all of his cash, the incident may have resulted in the recent around-the-clock posting of a security guard beside the machines.

Missing mobile returned ■ THANKS to a tracking device, a foreign businessman knew the geographical whereabouts of his new smartphone after it was stolen from him in a Sukhumvit bar. Apart from being nearby, it was also still switched on, so he used his wife’s mobile to send a message saying he’d pay a 4,000 baht reward for the phone’s return. In no time, an elderly lady called to say she’d bought the missing phone from a friend for precisely that sum. After a short conversation, the lady agreed to meet him so they could exchange money-for-mobile. Without fuss, the deal was done and despite the 4,000 baht outlay, the man was happy to have phone back, complete with an almost priceless amount of information and contacts. “I was relieved to have all that data back,” he said. “The money is nothing in comparison to what that’s worth to me and my business.” He added that with latest generation smartphones costing upwards of 25,000 baht, especially the new launches that attract a premium price, tracking devices and external information storage are now more essential than ever “in case the phones go missing.” The girl who stole the mobile in the first place has since been sacked after several other thefts in the same Soi 33 bar. Official sources have acknowledged a recent rise in theft in certain areas of Bangkok.

Insight

News|Local interest

Inbox

FAKE IDS A TICKET TO JAIL ■ KHAO San IDs are a JOKE (“Khao San’s Fake Documents Industry.” bit. ly/1mWVkqS). They are also a guaranteed one way ticket to a JAIL CELL! Most countries and state/provinces have laws regarding even the possession of a fake ID, others have crimes like possession with the intent to use. Since none of the Khao San road ID cards have holographic images on them the average cop and average bouncer at a bar will know it is a fake. Meaning even if you do not use it, if a cop searches you and ﬁnds it, well JAIL TIME! Even possession as a joke novelty item can get you arrested if the ID card does not CLEARLY state Novelty Card on it. Even then some places would still charge you unless you could prove beyond any doubt there was no intention to even try to use it someplace. So be warned – Khao San ID cards are not worth even one Cent! Netizen Man, via thebigchilli.com

NOISE ON THE RISE ■ IN last month’s issue you missed another irritant – noisy ads in lifts. Like the BTS ads these are an affront to paying customers. Visuals are ﬁne, but please cut the sound! What is the website to file a complaint on BTS ad noise? I want to sign up! BanyanBKK, via thebigchilli.com 10

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HEARD ON THE STREET Banned from the buffet for eating too much

■ ONE of Bangkok’s major hotels is considering a ban on a group of men who “eat too much” at their daily buffets. Staff have watched the gluttons in action and reckon each consumes at least 10 pieces of foie gras at every session. “It can’t be good for them from a nutritional point of view,” noted a hotelier. “And it’s not good for our bottom line.” This brings to mind a hotel buffet some years back that included an expensive imported crab in its all-you-can-eat deal. A chunky mother and her equally tubby son ignored every other item on the menu and just went for the crab, piling their plates high on many occasions. The hotel calculated that the pair ate their way through crab worth three times more than they paid for the buffet.

Clever but rude students ■ ONE of Bangkok’s international schools may be rightly proud of their students’ scholastic achievements, often advertising their acceptance in prestigious overseas universities, but it’s a shame they don’t teach them everyday manners as well. Groups of its students who attend after-school tutorials at a nearby office show zero patience when it comes to queuing for lifts. Instead of waiting for first-comers to enter the lift, they simply barge their way through with no thought of etiquette. Smart they may be, but polite they are not.

Discussion Point: Is dining in Thailand expensive? ■ FOREIGN residents and tourists are sometimes surprised by the relatively high cost of cooked food in Thailand, supposedly a “developing” country rich in agricultural produce. Compared to what they pay back home in restaurants, gastro pubs and other non-hotel dining venues, they may have a point. But are they right? A three-course dinner (not lunch) in a resplendent pub located in one of London’s leafy suburbs costs 800 baht and features the following: Starters • Devilled whitebait • Stilton & peppercorn mushrooms • Farmhouse pate Mains • Gammon steak with chips, peas and egg • Sweet potato & mozzarella burger with brioche bun and chips • Goats’ cheese and beetroot salad • Atlantic cod and chips

• Gourmet burger with bacon, Cheddar cheese, egg and brioche bun (extra 100 baht) 9oz rump steak with chips • Dessert • Crumble of the day • Treacle tart • Crème Brulee Thai restaurant owners may blame the high cost of their food on certain expensively imported ingredients, but there’s no getting away from the wide availability of all kinds of excellent quality and inexpensive domestic produce, along with lower labor costs and rents to keep their prices down.

Expat

Entrepreneur Awards 2014 The Finalists

After carefully examining over 200 entries, we present here the businesses which met our stringent criteria for nomination. Best of luck to all involved. We look forward to seeing you at the Awards night on October 14!

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H E A LT H + F I T N E S S H E A LT H + FITNESS

L i o n ’s H e a d Boxing Jay-R Crisologo, Founder

■ ESTABLISHED in 2009 with an initial B1,400 investment to buy focus pads, Lion’s Head Boxing is a personal training service for anyone wanting to learn what Californian expat ‘Coach J’ calls “the sweet science.” Today, The World Boxing Council (WBC) certified coach has over 32 clients, and works with hotel owners, big business people, celebrities, university kids, and even trains trainers. He also works in partnership with The Lab, taking care of its boxing business. www.facebook.com/lionsheadbkk

Fitcorp Global Daniel Remon, Founder and CEO

■ HEADED by Daniel Remon, an Australian expat with nearly 20 years’ experience as an entrepreneur and expert in the health and wellness industry, Fitcorp Global is a network of strategic health and wellness brands dedicated to developing programs, sports performance initiatives and opportunities for the private and corporate sector. www.fitcorpasia.com

“I am passionate about what I do. I wake up every day without having to think that it’s work. If what you do doesn’t feel like work, that’s when you’re inspired.” – Jay-R Crisologo

Infinite Potential

The Lab H E A LT H + FITNESS

S h a l i n i J . Ya m d a g n i , Founder

■ SHALINI is a certified Advanced EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) Practitioner. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s in Social Work from Delhi University, India. She also holds a Certificate of Participation in Radical Healing, Emotional Empowerment Therapy and is a certified Reiki Level 1 practitioner. Shalini is gifted at helping people who are in pain and feeling stuck, to move past their issues so they can feel relief quickly and get on with their lives with joy, peace and clarity. www.eftthailand.com

Richard Cohen, CEO and Founder

■ STARTING out as a gym being run in Richard’s lounge, The Lab is now a profitable two location business in the center of Sukhumvit with a third location opening soon. The client base – 60 percent Thai and 40 percent expat – is incredibly diverse, and features high profile celebrities, professional athletes and the regular nine-to-fivers – all working out together under one roof. From TRX to Beach Body classes, Circuit Training to Warrior Workouts, Parkour to Fight sport classes, The Lab constantly evolves to ensure there’s something for everyone. www.tbtlab.com TheBigChilli

F & B : F OOD NYC-Thai BD B e n j a m i n L e i n e r, F o u n d e r

■ TIRED of cheap ice cream with fake flavours and weird colours, and expensive ice cream that was overpriced and boring, serial entrepreneur Benjamin Leiner decided to bring his favourite American ice cream – Emack and Bolio’s – to Thailand. After two years of work getting 22 flavours approved by the Thai FDA, Benjamin opened his first Emack and Bolio’s store (the brand’s first international branch) in April in Nichada Thani, and another branch soon followed at CentralWorld Bangkok (6th floor). A third branch is already confirmed, and will open in the up-and-coming Emquartier Mall in February 2015.

P a t r i c i a ’s Homemade Pat Burbridge, Founder

The Accidental Butcher Steve Craig, Founder

partner of Thailand’s first scuba diving school and a founding member of the Pattaya International Ladies Club, has gained a glowing reputation for the high quality of her homemade jams, pickles, chutneys and antipasto dishes. One of her specialties is a chicken liver pâté paired with an onion relish, a hot commodity at the monthly fairs in Bangkok, where she sells her produce (Bangkok Farmers’ Market, International Creators’ Fair and Spring Epicurean Market). Patricia’s Homemade also offers antipasto catering services for small to midsized parties in Bangkok and Pattaya.

■ OPENED in June 2013 on Ekkamai Soi 10, The Accidental Butcher is based on the traditional butcher shop of days gone by. Aussie butcher Steve Craig offers premium quality pasture fed meat (Australian Angus beef and lamb) plus a range of premium sausages and smoked bacon all made in house without the use of fillers or preservatives. With a focus on customer education, Steve and his team sell products based on the preferred cooking methods or desired results of their clients, just as they do with the restaurant chefs they work with. www.theaccidentalbutcher.com

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Henning Biskopsto, Founder

■ ONLINE food delivery service GoTasty started in June 2012 in the suburbs of Bangkok with a focus on Thai restaurants and Thai customers, bringing not only top-end foreign international restaurants online, but also collaborating with local Thai street kitchens. As a small company with limited resources, GoTasty has focused its efforts on customer service and growing by word of mouth from satisfied customers. “This allows us to spend the extra effort it requires to collaborate with the smaller local vendors and bring them online,” explains Henning. “Not only does this give vendors the opportunity to grow, but it also means average Thai people have cheaper food options, allowing them to not only use food delivery on special occasions, but also as part of their everyday routine.” www.gotasty.co.th F&B : FOOD

Theodoré International

■ PATRICIA Burbridge, a former

G o Ta s t y

T h e K i r n f a m i l y, F o u n d e r s

■ ESTABLISHED in 2004, Theodoré International began its operations by simply importing caviar. Today, the company brings in a wide range of food products from China, Australia, and Europe and has a real focus on sustainable seafood. Earlier this year the family opened its first warehouse, an impressive facility on Sukhumvit 71, which not only offers state-of-the-art storage, but also an onsite dining room where the Kirn family regularly hosts dinners, featuring their products, for Thailand’s top chefs, restaurateurs, and suppliers. www.theodore-international.com

ISIS Private Company Limited

F&B : FOOD

Gaurav Kejriwal, Founder

■ A YOUNG Indian with a “can-do“ attitude, Gaurav came to the “Land of Smiles” more than a decade ago and has made it his home ever since. He worked in the IT sector (including multinationals like Price Waterhouse Coopers and IBM) for over 12 years, before he quit the corporate world to pursue his dream of becoming an entrepreneur. His passion in the field of hospitality led him to venture into the food business and, in 2010, Bangkok’s first Indian Fast Food outlet – SARAS – was born. A new umbrella organization, ISIS, was established to capture the various elements of the organization into one entity. www.isis.co.th www.saras.co.th

“Losing my husband was a huge challenge. I was ready to pack it in, give up, sail home. But my team persuaded me not to give up, to carry on. It was the right thing to do.” – Eileen Denning

Food by Phone M a r c H a g e l a u e r, F o u n d e r

■ FOUNDED in 1998 by Marc Hagelauer, Food by Phone works with over 100 of the best restaurants in Bangkok to deliver Thai, Japanese, Italian, French, American, Danish, English, and many more international cuisines, to condominiums, hotels and businesses throughout the city. Orders can be placed via the company’s website (which lists menus from all of its partner restaurants) or English-speaking call centre. The company’s thoughtful set up means that, despite Bangkok’s notorious heavy traffic, meals ordered will arrive within one hour. Food by Phone also provides an online self-service supermarket offering a wide variety of household products, toiletries products and food. www.foodbyphone.com

S l o a n e ’s

F&B : FOOD

Joe Sloane, Managing Director

Yo r k i e s Pork Platter

F&B : FOOD

Eileen Denning, Managing Director

■ YORKIES Pork Platter – company motto: ‘Pleased to meet you, with meat to please you’ – was established in Pattaya in 1999 by Norman and Eileen Denning, both experienced butchers from the UK. Sadly, Norman passed away in 2011 after suffering a massive heart attack. Despite the emotional upheaval, though, Eileen has managed to achieve the couple’s dream of building a successful wholesale business in Thailand – in November last year, after months of hard work, preparation and dedication of Yorkies’ long-standing staff, the company received FDA licences for 27 products. Yorkies’ high quality meats and pies are now available in most Villa supermarkets. www.yorkies-pattaya.com 16

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■ JOE was born in the UK and studied catering at his local culinary school before following his love of travel and food to work across three continents. With a background of traditional French cuisine, he spent over a decade in Michelin starred restaurants and five-star hotels before following his passion of butchery and charcuterie and setting up Sloane’s. His wealth of experience, detail-oriented butchery techniques, and passion about quality produce (including sourcing the best locally reared pigs), ensure Joe’s delicacies are uniquely delicious and a big hit with customers looking for superior meat products. www.sloanes.co.th

F & B : D RINKS Te a a n d F r u i t s I d o B e r g e r, F o u n d e r

■ TEA and fruits was launched in Thailand by Ido Berger in 2013 and in less than a year was present on the shelves of five of the seven leading supermarket chains in the country. A unique concept, Tea and Fruits presents users with two bags – one

Beervana Aaron Grieser and Brian Bartusch, Founders

■ TWO fates collided when home-brewers and beer fanatics Aaron Grieser and Brian Bartusch met at a food festival in Spring of 2012. Realizing their mutual love of all things craft beer, the two joined forces to create Thailand’s first craft beer importing company, Beervana. It can be safely said that Beervana started a movement. Whereas only a few years ago Bangkok was a virtual beer desert, today the city is awash with great craft beer, including many imported by new beer distributors following in Beervana’s footsteps. www.seekbeervana.com

C HARITY

Wishbeer J e r o m e L e L o u e r, F o u n d e r

■ LAUNCHED in February 2013, Wishbeer is now the number one Online Craft Beer Store in Thailand. Stocking 500 different beers from over 15 countries, it also offers home delivery anywhere in Thailand. “We’re now delivering dozens of orders each month to both expats and Thais,” says founder Jerome. “We have great visibility in both communities, not just through social media [Wishbeer’s facebook page has 52,000 fans], but also through sponsoring networking events and organizing regular beer tastings.” www.wishbeer.com F&B : DRINKS

CHARITY

In Search of Sanuk D w i g h t Tu r n e r, F o u n d e r

■ THERE aren’t many people in this world as selfless as American expat Dwight Turner. Founded in 2008, his foundation, In Search of Sanuk, directly provides food, shelter, and educational support for survivors of torture and trauma, focusing special attention on at risk women and girls. The Foundation’s hope is to provide as much ‘sanuk,’ the Thai word for fun and enjoyment, into the lives of these vulnerable communities as possible. www.insearchofsanuk.com 18

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filled with tea, the other with a mix of dried fruits – and these are used together to make a two-in-one drink experience. “We call it tea and dessert in the same cup,” says Ido. Tea and Fruits has now just launched its second phase of operations, which includes upgrading its products and releasing more tea and fruit combinations. www.teaandfruits.com

Pet Animal We l f a re Society ( PA W S ) Amy Baron, Founder

■ CREATED by Amy Baron, a former SCAD volunteer, in June 2012, PAWS provides spay/neuter and veterinary health services for stray or community animals, adoption programs, as well as responsible pet ownership education in Bangkok. Working tirelessly 24/7 and without the expectation of recognition or financial reward, Amy relies heavily on volunteers and donations to carry out her mission, and she can often be found at pet events throughout Bangkok where she inspires people to support her cause. www.facebook.com/pawsbangkok

F asHion Carry On Bags

Jeff Thomsen Collection

Linda O’Connor Jennings, Managing Director

Jeff Thomsen, Founder & ceo

■ THERE are not many designers who tan their own leathers. Jeff does just that. The distinctive leathers produced by Jeff Thomsen and his team are supple yet durable and, when combined with carefully sourced materials and accessories, result in a product that is built to last. Founded in 2013, the collection has quickly grown and now has over 40 models for both men and women. Each product is hand-made by artisans that have at least 20 years’ experience in the industry and form an original team that has been working together since the ’90s. www.facebook.com/jeffthomsencollection

RusiDesigns Rusi Hancock, Founder

■ GEORGIA-born Rusi has built up a potentially lucrative business designing and manufacturing a range of beautiful hand-made leather bags and a collection of stunning jewellery and accessories. Her Thai-made products, which are marketed under her RusiDesigns brand, have appeared on the catwalks of fashion shows in the UK and Georgia. And today they’re sold in boutiques in Paris, London, Mexico, Singapore and several other locations in the UK. To date, she has created two season’s collections of bags, with some available in up to 12 different colours. www.rusidesigns.com

P roPerty

ProPerty

T h a i l a n d - P r o p e r t y. c o m

■ AMERICAN expat Linda O’Connor Jennings first spotted the inspiration for her business around 30 years ago when travelling to the culturally-rich province of Chiang Rai. And, although it’s taken almost three decades to get her resulting business, called Carry On, off the ground, her eco-friendly and unique handbags have been definitely worth the wait. Linda’s product range includes bags to suit every occasion, as well as everything from luggage tags and wine insulated bags to jewelry and yoga mat holders – all made from recycled rice bags. Products range in price from B120 for a luggage tag up to B1,600 for a handbag with tribal handles. www.carryonltd.etsy.com

To w n & C o u n t r y Property Cees KC Cuijpers, ceo

Ben Neve and Neil Sutton, Founders

■ HAVING met while enlisted in the Royal Air Force, British expats Ben Neve and Neil Sutton assumed they would remain friends, but co-founding one of the fastest growing websites in Thailand 20-years down the road was something neither predicted. Officially launched less than a year ago, Thailand-Property.com now helps thousands of English speakers from around the world navigate the foreign home-seeking process by providing over 110,000 residential and commercial properties and land plots, for sale and rent, all over Thailand. www.thailand-property.com 20

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■ SERIAL entrepreneur Cees has been living and working in Thailand since 1997. He set up Town & Country Property in Pattaya eleven years ago, and has since then steered it to become one of the city’s leading realtors specializing in property on the Eastern Seaboard. Altruistic to the core, Cees is passionate about raising funds for impoverished children and, through his popular monthly networking group, Movers & Shakers (which he founded in 2009), has raised millions of baht for children’s charities in Thailand. His latest venture, Impulse Thailand, will be a networking mixer jointly promoted by some of the kingdom’s leading event organizers. www.TownCountryProperty.com

C o n s u lta n c y The Winning Edge

Monroe Consulting Group J o h n To l m i e , M a n a g i n g D i r e c t o r

■ MONROE Consulting Group is an executive level recruitment agency operating in ■ The Winning Edge’s predominantly emerging founder, Bert “Bow-Thai” markets. Unlike most van Walbeek, arrived in direct search companies, Thailand in 1985 and, the company does not upon insistent requests work with hefty upfront by hospitality and tourism retainers, preferring organizations to tap into to prove its abilities his vast experience, in a manner that started The Winning Edge requires the company in 1993 as a boutique to be successful. “This consulting company, has opened up large offering primarily services markets that have always to the tourism industries, but also to automobile, desired the services pharmaceutical and optical industrial sectors. Today, of a professional executive search agency but were reticent the company operates in any destination between C o n s u lt a n C y about paying up-front costs,” says John. “Placing quality at the Beijing and Bali as well as Mauritius and Macau. heart of everything we do has also brought financial success www.thewinningedge.com with our profit growing from a loss making situation in 2009 to $500,000 profit in 2013, and in Monroe being voted Best Recruitment Company (Under $35M) and Best Overseas Operation at the recent Global Recruiter awards.” iscount traDe www.monroeconsulting.com Bert van Walbeek, Founder

eatigo Founders: Thibaut Lacave, P u m i n Yu v a c h r u s k u l , Siddhanta Kothari, Michael Cluzel, Sylvain DeMuynck

■ FOUNDED in 2013 by a group of French, Swiss, Belgian, Indian and Thai entrepreneurs, eatigo makes a business of connecting empty stomachs to empty tables. Via their website, iPhone and Android applications, the eatigo guys serve up timebased discounts of up to 50% for all participating restaurants, every day at over 100 of the most popular dining places in Bangkok. The discounts apply to every food item on the menu and can be booked at no cost whatsoever online with no need for any credit card information and no printing of coupons. www.eatigo.com

White Card Asia J a n R o h w e d e r, F o u n d e r

DisCount traDe

■ IN November 2013 Jan Rohweder founded Marketing Bear Co., Ltd., the company behind the new social startup White Card Asia (WCA). It operates in three ways. First, WCA offers exclusive deals of up to 50% at places popular with expatriates and travelers in Bangkok. Second, through WCA the Marketing Bear team is able to significantly lower the price of professional marketing services (e.g. SEO, PR, Social Media Marketing, and many more) to the businesses promoted. Third, WCA is a social responsibility initiative. The White Card Asia team believes in using the resources and capabilities of its business to improve the well-being of people and the environment around them, and offers financial support to organizations actively involved in anti-trafficking policies. www.whitecardasia.com TheBigChilli

R E TA I L

Nancy Chandler Graphics N i m a C h a n d l e r, B u s i n e s s p a r t n e r

Ninive Games F a b i a n W e i n e r, Managing Director

■ ESTABLISHED in 2012 by German expat Fabian Weiner, Ninive Games imports a Thai version of the popular German board game ‘The Settlers of Catan,’ which it sells to retailers around the nation. The game is also available to buy (B1,750 in English; B1,600 in Thai), and play for free, at the Ninive Games store in Phra Kanong. “The idea is to make this a place where expats and Thais who enjoy board games can hang out and make new friends,” says Fabian, who, prior to establishing his business, was a lecturer at a Thai university. “Alongside Catan, we have a decent selection of other games for people to play, including classics like Diplomacy and Carcassone, 7 Wonders, and Tikal.” www.ninivegames.com

■ WHEN Nancy Chandler launched her first map of Bangkok in 1974, she had no idea how many lives she would touch over the next 40 years. Her company, Nancy Chandler Graphics, may still be a very small business, but the American artist’s unique content rich maps have been an invaluable resource to expatriates settling in the country, tourists seeking to make sense of Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and several businesses big and small that have benefitted from mentions

W e a r Yo u W a n t . c o m

on her maps. While paper maps may be a sunset industry, word of mouth and customer loyalty have enabled the company to survive through ups and downs on customer sales only. Now managed by Nancy’s eldest daughter and business partner, Nima Chandler, the company also publishes a similar map of Hanoi and an extensive line of colourful Thai theme greeting cards and gifts. www.nancychandler.net

R E TA I L

M a r t i n To f t S ø r e n s e n , M a n a g i n g D i r e c t o r / P a r t n e r

■ ONE of the leading marketplaces for Fashion & Beauty in Bangkok, WearYouWant works with almost 500 boutiques bringing the people of Thailand more than 400 different brands to their doorstep. Martin explains: “Personally, I am very much involved in sourcing and business development in order to make sure we have what is requested from our online audience and to grow the brand awareness of WearYouWant. Recently we have engaged in partnerships with large players on the market, including LINE, Samsung and Sanook, amongst others. These partnerships serve both as trust-builders and also as direct conversion on the site. The trend and behaviour of online shoppers in SEA is very interesting, and we’re aiming at regional expansion during 2014.” www.WearYouWant.com 22

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WhatsNew Co. ltd Sarah Huang, Co-founder

■ AFTER nine years in the corporate doghouse Australian expat Sarah Huang – a mother of one and a dog owner – broke free to venture out on her own. With help from business partner Harprem Doowa and Ardent Capital, a local venture capital fund led by veteran entrepreneur Adriyn Vanzyl, she launched Thailand’s first vertical e-commerce stores, Petloft.com and Venbi.com. Now with over 5,000 SKU’s, 20,000 customers and hundreds of direct relationships with major brands such as Royal Canine, Unicharm, Nestle, Betagrow and Nike, Venbi and Petloft have become leading e-commerce stores for baby and pet essentials. www.petloft.com www.venbi.com www.whatsnew.asia

M a n u Fa C t u r i n g

Tu k - Tu k F a c t o r y ( T T F ) Dennis Harte, Managing Director

■ PASSIONATE about the need to take fossil-fuel guzzling vehicles off the roads, Dutch engineer Dennis Harte and his team assembles four models of electric tuk-tuks in Thailand of their own design and exports them to countries around the world. Established in 2009, TTF works in collaboration with the Tuk Tuk Company (TTC), a Dutch firm that introduced tuk-tuks to Holland, where TTF is also registered. “In 2012 we produced 90 vehicles and exported them to France, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and Antilles (in the Caribbean),” says Dennis. “We doubled production in 2013, and in the first two months of 2014, 85 units were ordered. We’re now rapidly moving into new countries and markets, and this year will move to a bigger factory.” www.tuktukfactory.com

“We built the cheapest and smallest sailing boat on earth, which worked but was not that good. So we got bigger, better and built, built and built until Acadius was born.” – Serge Debono Arcadius Serge Debono, Founder

■ PASSIONATE about promoting a more active lifestyle amongst kids in Bangkok, Arcadius specializes in designing and building adventure playgrounds and state-of-the-art mobile play parks. Since launching two years ago, the company has hosted events at international schools and worked with customers such as PTT and Mega Bangna. The company has also created Thailand’s first full-size forest adventure park for kids in Pattaya, and now plans to open its own adventure center in Bangkok where kids and adults will be able to enjoy caving, climbing, skiing, and other fun activities. www.activecity.asia

Equator Pure Nature Peter N. Wainman, Chairman and CEO

■ A PROFESSIONAL investor in start-up companies from New York, Peter has been doing business in Asia since 1996 and relocated to Thailand in 2006. In 2010, he had severe allergic reactions to chemicals commonly used in Thailand’s laundry care products. Unable to find suitable natural alternatives, he and his partner decided they would create them themselves. The business began in 2010 as pure research and development with the aim of creating a natural product that could clean as well as synthetic/petro-chemical derived products. Using his researcher experience from MIT and U.C. Berkeley, Peter and his team achieved cleaning as good as or better than chemical products, and filed multiple global patent applications on the technology. Their brand name, Pipper Standard, has been filed in 44 countries worldwide, and the products are all natural, hypo-allergenic certified and fully bio-degradable (more than 90% in one month). The company now offers laundry detergent, fabric softener, floor cleaner, multi-purpose cleaner and dishwashing liquid – all derived from pineapple. www.equatorpurenature.com M a n u fa c t u r i n g

Engage Eco Products Mark Abell, Co-founder

■ LAUNCHED in Thailand in 2008 by two Australian entrepreneurs, Robert Brodie and Mark Abell, Engage Eco produces and sells value-added products derived from the rapidly renewable fibrous plant, Kenaf, and combines modern logistics and processing technologies with sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring the utilization of the entire kenaf plant with zero waste. “The range of products that are produced from Engage fiber production, and the applications of them, are immense,” says Mark. “Agribusiness is a hugely important industry sector and a substantial income earner for the Kingdom, and we forecast a strong growth strategy that will continue to provide more jobs for Thai people.” www.engagenrc.com TheBigChilli

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Checkinn99

Popscene Events Matt Smith, Founder

ENTERTAINMENT

■ IN six years, Popscene has gone from being a monthly event in a dingy little club on Khao San Road to booking acts like The Cribs, Young Knives, and Andy Rourke from The Smiths, who perform at some of Bangkok’s most prestigious venues. Events have also been held in Manila and Kuala Lumpur, and most recently Popscene hosted an unofficial day event at the SXSW festival

9FilmFest

Chris Catto-Smith, Co-owner

■ BANGKOK’S oldest operating nightclub steakhouse and bar originally opened in 1957. Three years ago – just hours before its scheduled demolition – it was saved by current owner and entrepreneur Chris Catto-Smith and his wife Mook, who, with no prior experience running bars and restaurants, took on unknown spiraling losses to successfully turn the business around. Steeped in history and with a colourful past, Checkinn 99 now hosts one of Bangkok’s most progressive live music programs (60 hours a week of live entertainment including cabaret, jazz and theatre entertainment) and has a unique profit share arrangement with staff and its resident band, Music of the Heart. www.checkinn99bkk

T AILORING Ta i l o r o n Te n

Brian Bennett, Founder

in Austin, Texas. As well as boosting the number of interesting international acts coming to Thailand, Popscene has had a positive effect on local talent, too. “There’s little doubt that the young people who attend Popscene shows are being inspired by what they see,” says Popscene’s founder, British expat Matt Smith, “and hopefully they will all go on to create music and tour in the same way my acts do.” www.popscene.asia

■ BUDDING filmmakers looking to be recognized in Thailand’s public sector finally found the perfect platform with the arrival of Brian Bennett’s 9FilmFest – a hybrid film fest and film contest which has just finished its third year. Thanks to its easy to enter guidelines (all types of cameras can be used from cell phones to DSLRs), interesting themes, and fabulous prizes, such as 600,000 baht cash and a brand new Toyota Vios, 9FilmFest has proved an important player in supporting creativity in Thailand. www.9filmfest.com

Ben and Alex Cole, Founders

■ BRITISH-Canadian expats Alex and Ben Cole had spent most TA I L O R I N G of their lives in Asia before founding Tailor On Ten together with German ex-management consultant Nike Rasmus just over three years ago. After sourcing some of the world’s finest fabrics and perfecting the construction with their in-house production team, their business took off instantly. Within a few months the business had outgrown its humble shop location on Sukhumvit Soi 10 and moved to Soi 8, thus providing the talking point that is its puzzling name. Today, Darryl, Sebastian, and Alex Kent-Morris, Owners Tailor On Ten enjoys a reputation for offering ■ FOR over 30 years Siam Costumes has been manufacturing top quality tailoring costumes in Thailand for all areas of the entertainment and high levels of industry, including over 35 Hollywood motion pictures and service, with 25 plus TV series and productions. The company has worked clients all over for many Academy Award winning costume designers and the world. its reputation in the industry is very highly regarded. What’s www.tailoronten.com more, Siam Costumes has supplied most of the world’s premier opera houses and worked on many productions for Broadway and the West End, including four productions for Andrew Lloyd Webber. Siam Costumes is run by Darryl Kent-Morris, together with his sons, Sebastian and Alex.

Siam Costumes

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M edia BKK Kids Karmen Chandontrikij, Founder

■ BKK Kids is a leading online resource for English speaking parents living in or visiting Bangkok. The business connects parents with events, activities, classes, schools, healthcare providers and services to entertain and enrich the lives of children. Parents can search over 500 listings including everything from sports programs and learning specialists to weekend outings. The website’s blog is updated weekly with posts on topics of interest to the community, and advice and guidance on raising bi-lingual, bi-cultural and third culture children in this dynamic city. www.bkkkids.com www.facebook.com/BKK.Kids

Class Act Media Simon Samaan, Founder

■ CLASS Act Media started in 2009 publishing a small monthly magazine. In early 2011 it started publishing ‘The Phuket News,’ a weekly English newspaper, and has since grown to include ‘Live 89.5,’ Phuket’s most listened to English radio station; ‘Novosti Phueketa,’ Thailand’s only weekly Russian newspaper; ‘The Phuket News TV,’ weekly English TV; ‘Phuket Ticket Master,’ Phuket’s only online ticketing solutions for events; as well as a host of other publications and services including ‘The Phuket Colouring book’ and ‘The Phuket FC match guide’. www.thephuketnews.com

Vivaldi Seasons J o s e p h H e n r y, F o u n d e r

■ FOUNDED in Bangkok in 2004 with a Southeast Asian regional network of partners, Vivaldi specializes in integrated PR, digital and social media development. The company’s strength lies in the creation of powerful content-driven strategies that communicate clients’ messages across all digital and non-digital platforms in an integrated way. Print, broadcast, events, online, strategic initiatives and B2B/ B2C communications – all channels are leveraged and integrated seamlessly and simultaneously for the delivery of a client’s message. www.vivaldipr.com

Media

“A lot of people see competition as a negative thing, but I always embrace it. It keeps you on your toes, keeps you motivated, keeps you evolving. Without evolving, you will perish.” – Simon Samaan

Capital Te l e v i s i o n R a i n e G r a d y, C o - f o u n d e r

■ NOW in its 20th year of operations, Capital Television has produced several thousand expat focused and English language television programs for broadcast in Thailand, across Asia and throughout the world. From humble beginnings, its TV shows have been seen by millions of viewers via platforms such as STAR World, CNBC, MCOT & TRUE Visions. The Bangkok-based production team have been airing their Expat focused TV shows in Thailand for more than 15 years, with a small but dedicated team of reporters, producers and production staff. Today, Capital TV undertakes all regional video production for Australia’s biggest e-commerce group, Aussie-Commerce, and its Luxury Escapes video magazine, and has just partnered with Bangkok Post to launch “Bangkok Post Channel” – a web portal that will include daily video stories on travel, lifestyle, business and Expat issues in Thailand. www.destinationthailand.tv TheBigChilli

Graphic design G RAPHIC D ESIGN

T R A V E L + H O S P I TA L I T Y X2 Resorts Group and BHMAsia Anthony McDonald, Founder and CEO

Asia Media Studio Laurent Couche, Owner

■ WITH a wide portfolio of Thai and European clients, Asia Media Studio’s services include naming development, logo design, brochure design, packaging design, stationery design, print production, and website design and development. All graphic design work is undertaken in-house in a modern well-appointed studio. “We provide expert advice and creative solutions to help our clients revamp and improve all aspects of their visual communications,” says Laurent, “and our experienced team comprises dedicated professionals with expertise in a range of marketing and creative disciplines who share a common passion for high quality visual and creative work.” www.asiamediastudio.com

Vimi.Co.Ltd

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Mike Darnell, Co-Founder

■ ISRAELI born web entrepreneur Mike Darnell met Virode Imtanasan for the first time in a McDonald’s near Asoke BTS station sometime late in 2010. After working together on a few projects, they thought it might be fun to set up a company together, and Vimi was born. The duo now prides themselves on creating great websites and apps while having fun at the same time. Among their many clients are Jaguar, Land Rover, Appy Hotel, and Saras. www.Vimi.co

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■ AUSTRIALIAN national Anthony is a successful serial entrepreneur who, after years of experience in property investment and services industries, embarked on an innovative strategy in 2008 by forming X2 (CrossTo) Resorts Group. A personal endeavour aimed at satisfying the needs of design-focused travellers looking for something different to the traditional tropical resort designs that, while well executed, proliferate the Asian region, X2 Resorts have since gone on to win many international awards. In 2011, Anthony added another string to his entrepreneurial bow by establishing Bespoke Hospitality Management Asia (BHMAsia), a regional Asian Pacific management, development and consulting group specializing in all aspects of the hospitality business, which, like X2, has also proved a big success. www.BHMAsia.com, www.X2LOBBY.com TRAVEL + H O S P I TA L I T Y

Smiling Albino D a n i e l B . F r a s e r, A d v e n t u re r- i n - C h i e f

■ SMILING ALBINO is a luxury adventure and tour company in Thailand founded by Daniel Fraser, an entrepreneur and television host from shows like Long Krung (Thai PBS) and Farang Song Thai (Ch 5). Daniel’s Tourism Authority of Thailand video went viral and won a film award in Germany, and helped Daniel win MThai media’s “Most Talked about media personality” in 2014. Smiling Albino is a team of travel enthusiasts in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Nepal. Adventures are built from continuous travel, innovation and refinement. “We host billionaires, celebrities and discerning travelers seeking an authentic, original experience,” says Daniel. “Through community-based tourism and industryleading ethical touring standards, Smiling Albino connects socially-conscious travelers with the real life of the peoples of SE Asia. We don’t just connect dots, we create them.” www.smilingalbino.com

T ECH

AND

We b C o u r s e s B a n g k o k Carl Heaton, Managing Director

Andovar Conor Bracken, CEO

■ ORIGINALLY from Dublin, Ireland, Conor first came to Thailand in 1993 and fell in love with the country and became fluent in Thai. Like many newcomers, his first job was as an English teacher, but when Internet and email came to Thailand he saw the opportunity to create a translation company using websites and email to connect clients and translators around the world while leveraging the lower costs of living here. In 2006, he struck out on his own and with the backing of the Thai Board of Investment founded Andovar, a full-service translation and localization provider which handles not only all types of text translations, but also audio recording (with on-site recording studios), subtitling, desktop publishing and Flash engineering in all languages. Growing steadily since then, the company now has additional offices in Medellin (Colombia), Singapore, and Miami. Conor is also a founding director of the Irish-Thai Chamber of Commerce. www.andovar.com

Neon Infotech SEA Co., Ltd

■ LIKE a lot of expats in Thailand, Carl started out teaching English and IT. But it was while working as a project manager for a small web design company that his entrepreneurial spirit came to the fore. Frustrated by the lack of web design skills among local businesses in Bangkok, Carl combined his knowledge of IT and his teaching experience to set up Web Courses Bangkok (WCB). Driven by Carl’s high standards and attention to detail, WCB grew rapidly from a humble beginning with just one staff to become a leader in the field of IT training, offering courses in web design, graphic design and online marketing. WCB’s clients include everyone from homegrown startups to Coca Cola and the United Nations. www.webcoursesbangkok.com

TECH AND IT

H a r s h V. S e t h i , CEO and Founder

■ NEON Infotech SEA Co., Ltd. provides engineering software solutions and specialized design and analysis services for continuous process industries like Oil & Gas, Power and Energy. The company was launched in 1997, during the economic downturn (Tom Yum Koong Crisis), and for five years did not have any breakthrough. Today, however, almost all the major companies in Thailand and Southeast Asia use Neon Infotech’s services, making the company a huge success story. www.neoninfotech.com

HotelQuickly C h r i s t i a n M i s c h l e r, C o - F o u n d e r

■ HOTELQUICKLY is one of the largest and most popular lastminute hotel booking apps in Asia Pacific. Launched only one year ago, the app now features more than 2,000 hotels in 12 countries and is fully localized to six languages including Thai, Vietnamese, Bahasa, traditional and simplified Chinese, and English. The app is available for free for iPhone, Android, and BlackBerry 10 devices. HotelQuickly App Co. Ltd. is a BOI certified company registered in Thailand. The entire IT development is being done out of Thailand, serving the region. The head office, including four out of five co-founders, is based in Bangkok (Silom). Total headcount is around 20. www.hotelquickly.com TheBigChilli

8 : oi 1 4 1 tS 20 mvi t igh khu N u s rd el, S ! a t d Aw t Ho vite r u d in ne ran ees e pr b n re em omi t n R n t E t the All a p Ex 14 a er tob c O

มูลนิธิสรางรอยยิ้ม

Allied Pickfords

Hemingway’s Bangkok

Asian Tigers Mobility

Lamp

Bei Otto

Lion’s Head Boxing Gym and Athletic Development Center

Bespoke

Me Juice Press

Blue Elephant Bangkok Cooking School and Restaurant

Nadimos

Bromsgrove International School

Raja’s Fashions

Cornerstone Management

RSM Muay Thai Academy

Dusit Thani Bangkok Hotel

Saras Indian restaurant

Food by Phone

Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, A Luxury Collection Hotel

Grande Centre Point Hotel Terminal 21

Siam Singapore International School

Expat

Hard Rock Cafe Bangkok

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The Sukhothai Bangkok Hotel

Entrepreneur Awards 2014

Promotion|Q&A

Business

BOTTLING GOOD HEALTH FOR THE WORLD With its range of herbal health supplements P-Value Company Limited has enjoyed great international success. Now releasing a range of products for men, the company has all areas of the market covered. And the move has come at just the right time, says the companyʼs managing director, Khun Prapon Chanasenee When was P-Value Company Limited founded? P-Value Company Limited started 12 years ago when several experts in the research and development of pharmaceutical skincare products joined forces and formed a partnership. Today, our development team boasts over 45 years’ industry experience and our products are popular around the world – especially in beauty clinics, institutes and spas. So your company started with an emphasis on skincare products? Yes, we started out with a focus on skincare products. But with our rich experience in pharmaceutical products and herbs, we decided to expand our business and include health and nutrition supplements too. We began by marketing our products locally, starting in the southern region before entering the eastern provinces, and then expanded internationally, taking our products to Saudi Arabia, Russia and Dubai. Currently, there is a high demand for our products, and our company has enjoyed rapid growth. What are your most popular products? Most popular among our female customers are ROSALINE and ROSLIM. Both of these are health supplements, made from 100% imported herbs, which help promote skin health, weight control, and regulate the menstrual cycle. Among our male customers, SO KOOL is a big hit. This health supplement is rich with antioxidants and, alongside promoting healthy skin, helps in pancreas productivity and testosterone

nourishment. SO KOOL is made from 90% imported herbs and is in high demand in both local and international markets. Why did you decide to create products for men, like SO KOOL, when the market for women’s health and beauty supplements is much larger? Over the past few years we have seen the health and wellness landscape evolve. More and more people are turning towards healthier lifestyles and taking better care of themselves – including men. Many factors, such as workplace stress or eating too much fast food, can cause our bodies to deteriorate faster than they should, both inside and out. And, as a result, many men often find their testosterone levels dipping. Because of this, health supplements for men are growing rapidly, so rapidly that men’s health and beauty supplements now make up 30% of the total market. We, of course, are the best seller in the market, both locally and internationally. Do you think there will be duplicates of your products? Nowadays, markets are awash with replica products, including items from the health and beauty supplements industry. Customers, however, should always buy from a reputable source. Like I mentioned before, our products are made by a team with over 45 years’ experience, are produced with 90-100 percent imported herbs, are FDA approved, and meet all international standards. Duplicating our products will be very difficult for anyone to do. www.pvalueskincare.com www.sokoolthailand.com email: sokoolthailand@outlook.com

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Insight

Men’s Health|Promotion

The dangers of low TesTosTerone Fatigue and depression are just two of the symptoms a man experiences when his primary hormone is low. Don’t suffer in silence. Visit Maximum Performance Wellness Center for an effective medical solution What is testosterone? The primary hormone that controls the overall health and well-being of men is testosterone. Testosterone has many important functions in men, including an increase and maintenance of muscle strength and lean muscle mass, as well as increased energy, libido, mood, and bone health. Another hormone, estrogen, is also important in the overall balance of hormones in men. The levels of estrogen in men are in much smaller quantities than in women, but estrogen plays an equally important role with testosterone for overall hormone balance. When testosterone levels begin to decline, or when estrogen levels begin to increase – thereby altering hormone balance – men don’t feel normal and their health begins to decline. How does my body regulate my testosterone levels? Just like your cholesterol or blood pressure, there is a numerical range of testosterone levels (also known as T levels)

that are considered normal. In a healthy male, the brain and the testicles work together to keep testosterone within this normal range. When levels of testosterone are below normal, the brain signals the testicles to make more. When the levels of testosterone reach a normal level, the brain signals the testicles to make less.

increased unhealthy habits are affecting and accelerating testosterone declines. For example, lack of sleep, or having interrupted sleep (i.e. sleep apnea); can lower your testosterone levels. Men who get less sleep for even just two weeks can see their testosterone levels decrease by up to 15 percent.

When do men generally experience low testosterone? At around the age of 30, testosterone production begins to slow down at a rate of about 1% to 3% per year. Interestingly, testosterone also naturally drops after a man gets married (or begins to live with a partner) and after having kids. A lower level of testosterone reduces not only his sex drive, but also his drive to succeed. Little by little, he begins to feel less like taking on the world. His strength begins to diminish, and his stamina declines. It is the time in a man’s life typically associated with the term, “mid-life crisis.” When a man is found to have low testosterone blood levels, he is diagnosed with the medical condition known as Hypogonadism.

What can be done to restore my testosterone levels? The doctors at Maximum Performance Wellness Center have expertise and experience, offering state of the art Testosterone Replacement Therapy. They will analyze your medical history and give you a medical evaluation to assess your current state of health. During your visit, our doctor will discuss any symptoms you’ve been experiencing, their impact on your quality of life, and your reasons for considering Testosterone Replacement Therapy. Our doctors will take into account not only your laboratory results, but your age, and your symptoms in order to determine if you have low testosterone. You can then decide together the best approach to take in getting your hormones back to normal levels, and getting you feeling more like the man you once were. There’s really no reason to deal with the detrimental effects of aging when there’s a safe and effective medical solution. Balancing and replenishing your testosterone levels not only counters symptoms like decreased libido, muscle loss, and fatigue, but protects you from the risks of serious diseases like heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and prostate cancer. We have now entered an age where renewed energy, optimal health, and a greater sense of well-being have never been easier to attain.

What are the symptoms of low testosterone? Some of the symptoms seen with low testosterone levels include: weight gain (especially around the abdomen), difficulty gaining and retaining lean muscle mass, depressed mood, and a drop in sex drive. Further, a decrease in testosterone levels has been associated with a range of significant degenerative diseases, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis and hypertension. Is aging the only reason my testosterone levels decline? Unlike before, it just isn’t aging that causes men to experience low testosterone. Today’s lifestyles and

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245/9-10 Central Pattaya Rd. Pattaya Tel: 038 421 998 email: contact@maxperformwellness.com

Insight

Business|Branding

Five ways that PR can help your business By Pacharee Pantoomano Pfirsch

■ OUR team has been working on the Expat Entrepreneur Awards for nearly a year. As we were approaching the press conference, one of the nominees asked how public relations (PR) can help his company and in his particular case being a start-up. We view PR as a long term investment that supports the company in a number of ways.

3. Entice investors and funding: PR can help attract investors, which is especially beneficial for a start-up. A carefully planned PR strategy can generate positive media coverage which enhances the founder(s) and the company’s credibility, providing better leverage when negotiating with potential investors. Additionally, if a start-up is intending to raise capital via crowd

1. Awareness and positive brand image: For every business that wants to have top of mind awareness, a good reputation is a must. This makes it tricky for a start-up, as there are many competitors in the market place. The key is for the newcomer to pitch itself to the media by sharing its story and highlighting its unique selling point. By distinguishing itself, the company will be seen as different and special, which helps to cut through the clutter of messages that consumers receive on a daily basis. A perfect example of this is an article I came across recently about an airline and its unique lost and found service. At the heart of it is an adorable beagle wearing the airline vest, and he returns lost items to passengers before they exit the airport. 2. Attract customers: A positive news story about the business and its products is a form of third party endorsement. The story helps to put the product or service on the customers’ shopping list. Consumers are more likely to purchase a more familiar brand than the one they have never heard about. Some brand leverage on PR to support their sales and marketing activities too, i.e. donating part of the sale proceeds to support a charity.

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funding, PR could support in reaching out to the numerous investors on a local and international level drawing financial backing to the company. 4. Attracts employees: In addition to new customers and investors, PR can assist in attracting prospective employees. By sharing the company’s brand values and culture, the

organization will appeal to like-minded people. Some of them may have the right talent that the company is looking for as it grows the team. 5. Gain trust and credibility: As opposed to PR, in advertising, the consumer knows that the advertisement has been paid for by the company. With social media, people are less and less inclined to be sold to nowadays. More people are looking at peer reviews to get insights, and this explains Trip Advisor’s popularity. Other websites like e-Bay and Amazon have added customers’ reviews to help would-be shoppers make an informed decision. When a company sends out a press announcement, is interviewed by a journalist or has its product reviewed by the media, it is a form of a peer review. If the coverage is positive, it serves as a testimonial and this kind of recognition is priceless. For big and small, old and new companies, PR is a long term investment. It’s a channel to educate the target audience on what makes the company and its products or services special. It’s an opportunity for the enterprise to share its story from multiple angles. Compared to advertising, PR is a cost effective way to market a business and when executed correctly, it also results in incredible value. Pacharee Pantoomano Pfirsch is a marketing consultant at Brand Now Co., Ltd and when not busy creating PR strategies with her team, she can be reached at pacharee@brandnow.asia

Feature

Insight|MJets

Bangkok’s private jet operator takes on the world

The Gulfstream GV and MJets Bus

Now you can join the jet set and fly in style to London, the Himalayas or simply nip down to Pattaya for the day in one of MJets’ luxurious aircraft operating out of Don Mueang airport. Maxmilian Wechsler reports

IF you are willing and able to pay more for privacy, comfort and freedom from commercial flight schedules, MJets may be for you. The innovative air service based in Bangkok allows you to fly in style in one of their private jets whenever and wherever you want. Shareholders William Heinecke and Nishita Shah launched the company under the name of Minor Aviation Limited in 2007 with two aircraft. In 2008 Minor Aviation was rebranded as MJets Limited and the company added the fastest civilian jet in the world, the Cessna Citation X, to its fleet. Then, in March of 2010, MJets launched the first and the only Fixed-Base Operations (FBOs) in Thailand, with its own jet terminal at Don Mueang Airport. Despite difficulties at Don Mueang caused by the historic 2011 flooding, MJets expanded its charter fleet in 2012 to six aircrafts with the addition of the ultra-range Gulfstream GV and the Cessna Citation Bravo that can be converted to function as an air ambulance.

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In 2013, MJets handled a record number of movements through its private jet terminal with the aircraft management division grew by six aircrafts. With a fleet of ten aircraft, MJets became the leading private jet operator in Thailand. General manager Simon D’Oyly is a vibrant, fast talking Englishman who spent almost 13 years in the private jet industry, mostly in the United Arab Emirates, before joining MJets 19 months ago. “Setting up a private airline is a big investment not only in terms of money, but also time and experience,” said Mr D’Oyly. “Finding the right employees is crucial. This field is very different from providing scheduled aviation routes. We don’t fly every day, and we don’t have fixed itineraries or destinations. A lot of our business is ad hoc.” He then gave some basics on the company: “MJets is a privately owned company registered in Thailand. I am the general manager; above me is Jaiyavat Navaraj, my boss and executive chairman of MJets. He and I share responsibility for running the company.

This page: The luxurious interior of the Gulfstream GV

at Yangon airport. While he was not at liberty to disclose the names of MJets customers “because one of the main reason they are flying by private jet is they appreciate confidentiality and discretion,” he did say they are successful individuals, mostly business people.” He added that in terms of private terminals, it is really a mix. “They might be Hollywood celebrities, pop stars, football players or other sportsmen. These terminals cater to inbound tourists. “Up until 2008 the growth of the private aircraft industry was just sky-rocketing, but the worldwide recession cooled things off. For example a new Global 5000 aircraft manufactured by Bombardier was sold to a customer in Kazakhstan for US$40 million. At one point, one of my clients wanted to buy it for $61.5 million but the owner refused. A week later, when the financial crisis erupted, the same aircraft couldn’t be sold for $30 million. The industry has rebounded dramatically after 2008, but it’s definitely not recession-proof.” Mr D’Oyly said that the operators with smaller aircraft are much more sensitive to price fluctuations. People with larger aircraft tend to be little more resilient in times of financial turmoil. “Growth in the industry is very strong again, and now everyone is looking to Asia. To be placed in Thailand at this moment is fantastic,” he said, adding that countries seeing expansion in the private jets business include India, Indonesia, China and Brazil. I have worked in this industry for the past 13 years and in that time it has gone from a very small number of companies to an exploding market. “The number of companies doing private jets around the world has probably quadrupled or more, especially in regions like the Middle East, Central Asia and now Southeast Asia. “We have a lot of passengers flying inside Thailand to Chiang Mai, Phuket or Koh Samui. In terms of our charter business, it is mostly within Southeast Asia, although we also have privately operated aircraft from our managed fleet flying to the United States,

H “We have altogether ten aircraft at our terminal. Four are owned by MJets – a Cessna Citation X, Gulfstream GV, Cessna Citation CJ3 and one Cessna Citation Bravo. This gives us a fairly wide range of aircraft types. “The Cessna Citation X has a top speed of 1,127 km/h and a range of 5,965 km. The Gulfstream GV can fly direct from Bangkok to destinations in Europe with up to 14 passengers. Its top speed is 966 km/h. The Cessna Citation Bravo and Cessna Citation CJ3 are six-seater aircraft that can fly to destinations in the 3-3.5 hour range and are suitable for regional flights.” The other six aircrafts at the MJets terminal belong to private owners who reside in Thailand. “We look after their aircraft. Three owners have given MJets permission to charter their planes out if they aren’t using them. This helps them to reduce the fixed ownership costs. “These are very successful people who own businesses that have nothing to do with the aircraft industry. Therefore, they are happy to find a place for their aircraft with a company like MJets that can manage flight crews, permits, maintenance and other important matters for them. “Whether the aircraft is flying or not, these owners still have to pay the salaries of pilots and flight attendants. Insurance for the aircraft is another fixed cost, whether it’s flying or not. So in order to mitigate ownership costs they allow us to use their aircraft for charter flights.” Asked about his daily workload, Mr D’Oyly replied: “I never stop working, I am always busy. It is a real mix of stuff. We have five major business lines including the FBOs which is running things from the private jet terminal; chartering aircraft from our own fleet or our managed fleet; aircraft management where we physically manage other people’s aircraft, maintenance facilities and then we have an air ambulance look after as well.” MJets officially opened another private jet terminal in Myanmar on August 2 - the Myanmar MJets Business Aviation Center

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Feature

Insight|MJets

The CJ3 hangar

Challenging business

General Manager Simon D’Oyly, and Sales Director Surivasa Ongvisit

South America, Africa and Europe. Our most popular destinations outside of Thailand are Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, Singapore and Maldives,” Mr D’Oyly said. “Our focus in Southeast Asia is endless. We are a Southeast Asian company and right now we don’t need to look beyond the region in which we operate and open facilities on the other side of the world. I think that anybody currently working in Southeast Asia realizes that the region as a whole is now booming. We are looking at consolidating our presence in countries neighboring Thailand first and then we will look further afield,” Mr D’Oyly said. “We very much hope that the five-year mandate we were granted for our private terminal by the Airports of Thailand will be extended. We were given a verbal assurance that because of the damage caused to our business during the 2011 floods (the company had to move out for a year) that it will be extended. “We have increased business 300% year on year, and that’s down to MJets’ contacts within the industry and also to marketing efforts,” said Mr D’Oyly, adding that the company is highly interested in opening a third terminal in Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam or Laos in the near future. Asked about the air ambulance service, Mr D’Oyly said “most traffic is from hospital to hospital. Patients come for treatment from specialists at Thai hospitals because the quality of medical care here is far superior to what they can find in their home countries. In terms of aero-medical tourism or medical tourism in general in the region, Thailand is a market leader along with Singapore.” 36

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“Many people think that starting an airline is an easy operation, but in fact it is quite complex. I spent 11 years working in United Arab Emirates and I have seen many people start up an airline and lose a lot of money. “Sir Richard Branson, the British businessman and founder of Virgin Group, was once asked how to become a millionaire in the aviation industry. His response was, ‘You start off as a billionaire.’ “A huge amount of effort must go into managing even one aircraft, especially when you are looking to operate that aircraft commercially. Our operations here are split over privately and commercially operated aircraft. If you operate aircraft commercially, it is governed under international law by very strict clauses that state exactly what you can or can’t do and what kind of support you need. We are also very tightly regulated by the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA). We must adhere to various written standards because these are based on precedents that have been shown to be very well founded. “Aircraft must be properly maintained or operated. It is our job to make sure this happens here.” Mr D’Oyly maintains that private aviation is affordable and sensible if it is properly managed. “Probably the most sensible trip requests we get are from tourists coming to Bangkok who are interested in a tour of Yangon, Bagan, Luang Prabang, Siem Reap and then back to Bangkok. If you are in a group of six to ten passengers spending two or three days in these locations, a private jet can make a lot of sense. It is not only the reserve of the very rich and famous.”

Keeping above the competition

Mr D’Oyly said there are three or four other private jet services operating out of Bangkok these days, but that MJets is undoubtedly the biggest such company in Southeast Asia. “We are probably twice the size of our nearest competitor. We are able to consolidate our position as Asia’s leading private jet operator largely because we are an FBO. Basically this means the company provides a private jet terminal plus other aircraft support services like fueling and maintenance. “Another reason for our success is that we hire very qualified people. We have a duty to ourselves and to our passengers to make sure that we are providing professional crews that can op-

The Air Ambulance interior

The G200 interior

FIrst class comfort in the Cessna Bravo MJet’s private lounge

erate the aircraft safely. Sometimes this is a challenge. You must realize that private aviation in Thailand is still in its infancy. Therefore it is necessary to select and train the best people available. It is difficult to run an aircraft with less than three crew members. In any 12-months period crew members need training which takes at least one week, plus travelling days. If it is a commercially operated aircraft, this will happen twice a year. Then you have to manage people’s leaves of absence, which is another two weeks. And of course on top of that you may have absences due to sickness or other unanticipated events. “Another complication is that to comply with the DCA we are obliged to have a certain ratio of foreign to Thai pilots. We need, in general, at least three crew members for one aircraft. This means that we need to have two foreign captains and a Thai national as first officer, because according to our company policy, we can only employ pilots with a certain number of hours experience operating the actual aircraft they will be flying. It is very difficult to find Thai pilots with this experience. “The Thai first officer is usually a captain from one of the airlines in Thailand. We train the first officer as co-pilot, in the righthand seat, and after a sufficient number of hours in a particular aircraft type, we move the first officer into a command position as captain. Then we will employ another Thai first captain. “Our aim is that within three to five years a particular aircraft will have an entirely Thai crew. But this depends as how many hours the aircraft flies. If it is 800 hours in one year then we can probably achieve the goal in the initial time frame.” The company can even fly to difficult mountain-ringed airports such as Bhutan and Nepal in the Himalayas. “We have flown to Bhutan several times. The pilot must be very experienced and a Bhutanese navigator who has piloted for the national airline must also be on board. We also have flown a few times to Kathmandu. This is another interesting airport. We have done it with pilots who have experience on the route with airlines they previously worked for and we also use a flight simulator to train pilots to land at Kathmandu airport.”

The Rose of MJets

MJets sales director Ms Surivasa Ongvisit, who prefers to be called Rose, briefly described the procedure for passengers flying with MJets. “After you arrive at our terminal, you park your car outside, at the front of the terminal (there’s plenty of parking space), where our staff will meet you and escort you to the departure lounge. We will bring your passport to the immigration officials in the building. We also arrange all customs formalities. “When you fly with us on a private jet, you should have absolute privacy. Certainly you don’t want to queue for immigration or customs. “A passenger doesn’t need to wait for the aircraft, which is ready to depart, when they arrive at the terminal. It takes only 10-15 minutes to complete immigration formalities and you are on your way. After all formalities are completed, the passenger is brought to the aircraft by minibus, if only one to four persons are flying. If more than that we have a bus to bring them to the aircraft. “We can fly you to Pattaya, or if you wish, anywhere in the world. Our 14-seater Gulfstream GV can fly non-stop to London,” Rose said. “Every aircraft is always staffed by two pilots. If it is a six-seat aircraft there is no other cabin crew and passengers are instructed on how to make their own coffee and so forth. For eight-seat aircraft, we have one cabin crew. “A return flight to Chiang Mai coming back on the same day will cost about 300,000 baht for the whole round trip. If you want to divide it by seat then the trip would cost 50,000 baht per person on the smallest six-seater aircraft. If the passenger wants to return on the next day the cost will increase by about 50,000 baht. “

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Gourmet p Wine and restaurant news

Jean Sulpice, chef and owner of the world's highest two Michelin starred restaurant, is coming to Bangkok to cook dishes like this. Page 40.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cooking A round up of this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best gourmet deals. Yummy! Page 40

Recipe

Rich rewards are yours for the tasting in this easy to make dish Page 52

Meet the chef Meet the Chinese Sous Chef of Swissotel Le Concorde Bangkok Page 54

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Dining|News

What’s Cooking

Bangkok’s hottest dining deals and news

Jean Sulpice at La Scala OCT 7 – 11 AT THE SUKHOTHAI BANGKOK

All in French taste AVAILABLE NOW AT FIFTY FIVE RESTAURANT

THERE’S nothing like the introduction of a new menu to get tongues wagging. While we haven’t had chance to try it yet, Chef de cuisine Hugo Coudurier’s new menu at Fifty Five Restaurant (Centara Grand at CentralWorld) is generating lots of buzz, mainly for its adherence to classic French recipes and a focus on seasonal ingredients. Among the options we intend to sample soon: Warm asparagus with Scottish smoked salmon and crème fraiche vinaigrette; Butter-roasted French frog legs with garlic and tomato; and Striploin steak covered with seasonal mushrooms, and cream of mustard sauce. CentralWorld Bangkok, 999/99 Rama 1 Rd. 02 100 6255 :centarahotelsresorts.com

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THE owner and chef of the world’s highest two Michelin starred restaurant (which, fact fans, is located in the stunning mountain ski resort of Val Thorens, France, 2,300 metres above sea level), is taking a break from his eponymous culinary home to come and showcase his cuisine at La Scala, The Sukhothai Bangkok. Expect to find the finest examples of Savoyard cuisine – the traditional cuisine of the Alps – including high quality cheese, fresh fish and juicy fruits. Set lunch and dinner menus will be available, ranging in price from B3,200++ for food only, to B7,000++ paired with wine. Reservations are essential. 13/3 South Sathorn Rd. ☎ 02 344 8888 :sukhothai.com

Moët & Chandon Sunday Brunch EVERY SUNDAY AT VOILA!

EVERYONE knows that Sundays are best spent feasting. The more decadent the spread, the better the experience. Great news, then, that Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit’s all-day-dining restaurant has just launched a new gourmet Sunday brunch featuring a cracking buffet spread of international favourites (think Alaskan king crab, New Zealand mussels, artisan cheeses, and flame-grilled French style chicken) plus signature creations served á-la-minute, all for just B2,200 with free-flow soft drinks and juice (half-price for kids aged 6-12); B3,750 with Chandon, wines and cocktails; or B4,750 with Moët & Chandon Champagne, wines and cocktails. 189 Sukhumvit Rd Soi 13-15 ☎ 02 126 9999 :soﬁtel-bangkok-sukhumvit.com

Gourmet

Dining|News Creative cuisine by Rolf Fliegauf

New on the scene

NOV 4 – 8 AT BANYAN TREE BANGKOK

AS the custodian of two restaurants in Switzerland – Ristorante Ecco on Snow in St. Moritz, and Ristorante Ecco at Hotel Giardino Ascona – both of which have been awarded two Michelin stars each, 31-year-old Rolf Fliegauf is a remarkable talent. Thankfully, you don’t have to fork out for a flight to try his food, because for five days he’ll be cooking his richly aromatic cuisine at the Banyan Tree Bangkok. Three-course, four-course, five-course, and sixcourse menus will be available, ranging in price from B3,900++ to B5,200++. 21/100 South Sathorn Rd.

☎ 02 679 1200 www.banyantree.com

Classic Cantonese

OCT 13 – NOV 2 AT 57TH STREET

CHEF Gordon Tian, from Shanghai Renaissance Yangtze Hotel, will arrive in town this month for a guest stint at Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit’s 57th Street restaurant. Promising to deliver an “incredible Chinese buffet with Classic Cantonese Cuisine,” Chef Gordon's spread will be priced B690++ for lunch; B990++ for dinner. Miwèi! 57 Sukhumvit Rd. ☎ 02 797 0000 :marriott.com

J’aime by Jean-Michel Lorain OPENING this month with the promise to turn ‘French cuisine upside down,’ J’aime by Jean-Michel Lorain at the luxury U Sathorn Bangkok is the French chef’s first foray into Asia. As owner of the three Michelin starred La Côte Saint Jacques in Joigny (the gateway to Burgundy), Chef Lorain enjoys a sterling reputation for his cuisine – creative French fare loaded with seasonal, prized ingredients. His Bangkok restaurant will open to the public on Oct 23, and Jean-Michel himself will be in town cooking for a week. After that, he'll hand the reigns to his protégé, Amerigo Sesti, who will continue to create French cuisine served in an Asian style (think portions made for sharing), all within the restaurant’s unique upside-down interior. U Sathorn Bangkok, 105/1 Soi Ngam Duphli, Sathorn 02 119 4888 :uhotelsresorts.com/usathornbangkok

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So Amazing Chefs 2014 OCT 16-19 AT SOFITEL SO BANGKOK

Oktoberfest special ALL THIS MONTH AT WALK BAR

ASIDE from ale – and lashings of it – Germany’s most famous beer festival is perhaps best known for its hearty servings of pork knuckle (or Schweinshaxe, if you want to impress your German speaking friends). Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel’s WALK Bar will get in on the Bavarian action this month by serving ham hock cooked in the traditional Munich style – crispy on the outside, succulent in the middle. Available daily 5pm-1am, and a bargain at just B700++. 567 Ratchaprarop Rd. Makkasan 02 625 1234 :centarahotelsresorts.com

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THE third edition of the annual So Amazing Chefs event, held at Sofitel So Bangkok, will once again bring together nine top chefs from around the world for four days of gourmet dining and cooking demonstrations at the hotel’s restaurants. Chefs returning this year include Alain Caron from Amsterdam, Christophe Paucod from Japan, Didier Corlou from Vietnam, Patrick Jeffroy from Brittany, maitre-chocolatier Stephane Bonnat, also from France, and Sofitel So Bangkok’s Paul Smart. Making their debut and adding to the high profile nature of the event are truffle expert Daniel Hebet; chef-owner of a Michelin-starred restaurant, Laurent Peugeot; and Tokyo-based pastry chef consultant Stephane Vieux. As in previous years, the highlight of the event will be the Culinary Showdown, which will take place on the evening of Fri Oct 17 and will see all nine chefs go head-to-head in a friendly cook-off. Tickets for this event are B1,900++ per person (includes a welcome cocktail and three-course dinner). 2 North Sathorn Rd. ☎ 02 624 0000 :soﬁtel.com

Gourmet

Pics|Events

Gourmet scrapbook Last month’s foodie functions in focus

Wine Pub’s big wine launch

WINE Pub at Pullman Bangkok King Power celebrated the launch of its new selection of 48 wines by the glass with a special wine dinner attended by oenophiles, industry experts, and Thai celebs such as Dr. Kritika Kongsompong, Khun Panitnart Yeampeka, Khun Salinee Panyarachun, and Khun Jidapa Boonyakorn. The dinner was hosted by the hotel’s GM, Mr Marc Begassat.

Arabic cuisine in the heart of Bangkok

1001 Nights, Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok’s two-week long celebration of Middle Eastern cuisine, was launched in grand style with a sumptuous dinner featuring a wide range of Arabic favourites created by Jordanian Guest Chef, Sudqi Naddaf, from the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates in Dubai. 44

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Gourmet

Pics|Events

Thai wine showcase at Rang Mahal

REMBRANDT Hotel Bangkok’s chef Rajan Misra was on top form when he cooked up a range of dishes specially created to pair with the finest wines from GranMonte Estate, Family Vineyards & Winery, Asoke Valley, Khao Yai Thailand. Hosted at the hotel’s Rang Mahal Restaurant, the five-course dinner was presided over by Thailand’s first female winemaker, Nikki (Visootha) Lohitnavy – now GranMonte’s Director of Viticulture and Winemaking Operations – and attended by wine lovers of all nationalities.

Wine paring made simple with Jacob’s Creek

AUSTRALIAN wine brand Jacob’s Creek joined forces with Villa Market to host a “Reserve Table JC Grocerant” event at K-Village, Sukhumvit 26. Billed as a ‘modern gastro experience,’ the picnic-style event saw celebrity Chef Teerapat ‘Tee’ Phuaphanthong cook up a special menu which showcased how simple ingredients, all available at supermarkets, can be easily prepared to pair with Jacob’s Creek’s premium wines. 46

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Review|Mode Sathorn Hotel

Review

The Roof@38th Bar

Mode Sathorn Hotel’s rooftop bar serves cocktails and tapas in style

LOCATED on the hotel’s 38th floor – hence the name – Mode Sathorn’s chic rooftop bar presents a bird’s eye view of Bangkok that never fails to impress – a glorious 360 degree panorama that humbles, wows, and makes the perfect backdrop for relishing the venue’s carefully crafted cocktails and globetrotting tapas recipes. Like any superior rooftop bar, The Roof is tailored to suit the tastes of discerning drinkers and offers a wide range of fine spirits and wines and, bang on trend, international craft beers. Wines start at B320++ per glass, beers at B280++. Mixologists behind the alfresco bar (the whole venue is open-air), meanwhile, channel their skills into creating innovative mixes that come bursting with flavour and that all important boozy kick. Sex on the roof, a fruity concoction

blending absolut apeach, Galliano, orange juice, cranberry juice and pineapple juice is the perfect way to beat back a stressful day at the office. So too the apple-scented La Pomme, and the sweet and citrusy Lychee & grapefruit martini. These cocktails are all jumbo size – for two people to share – and priced just B650++. Prefer your drinks virgin? Try the refreshing Watermelon lemonade (watermelon, cranberry juice, sour mix, mint leaves and lemonade. B250++). To accompany the drinks, The Roof offers a Tapas menu featuring sharing platters inspired by international cuisines, alongside a selection of skewered barbecued meats and a choice of fusion sushi. Highlights include crunchy, salmonfilled Brazil spring rolls (B250++), the succulent Mixed satay (B260++), and French mixed, a barbequed shrimp skewer served with sautéed seasonal

Mode Sathorn Hotel (BTS Surasak Station), Sathorn Nuea Rd.

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vegetables (B380++). The pizza-inspired Tart ambé Alsacienne (B390++), featuring mushroom, chorizo and whipping cream, is another tasty option that’s perfect for sharing. Sharing is all part of the fun at The Roof, and the best way to get into the spirit of the concept is to order the Panorama Party Set. A great deal at only B3,299, this offers a choice of one bottle of Red Label whisky, gin, vodka or tequila, served with four bottles of mixers, plus two appetizers and one main dish. Ladies looking for a fashionable place to hang out during the week should visit on a Thursday, when a buy-one-get-onefree deal is on offer. Go as a group of four and you’ll also receive a complimentary bottle of bubbly. The Roof@38th Bar opens daily from 6pm-1am. Reservation is recommended.

☎ 02 623 4555 :modesathorn.com

Gourmet

Review|IPPUDO

Review

IPPUDO

Famous Japanese restaurant chain now open at Central Embassy

FOUNDED in 1985 in Japan’s ramen capital of Hakata, Fukuoka, ramen king Shigemi Kawahara’s popular restaurant chain, Ippudo, is feted for the quality of its pork-broth noodles. After earning praise outside of Japan in cities such as New York, Hong Kong and Singapore, the restaurant has now finally arrived in Bangkok, bringing fine ingredients, wellhoned recipes, considerate cooking, and heaps of flavour – as well as some unique, signature dishes. Following the same concept as the very first Ippudo branch in Fukuoka, a carefully crafted noodle-slurping den, Bangkok’s iteration of the restaurant – a 96-seater – is modern and stylish with

clean-lines and no clutter. And, like the debut diner, there’s invariably a queue – such is the quality of what’s on offer. The Shiromaru Motoaji (B200), one of Ippudo’s classics, is a delicious creamy combination of Hakata-style ultra-thin noodles topped with tender pork loin, bean sprouts, kikurage and spring onions. Slow simmered for 15 hours, the pork broth is rich with flavour and utterly irresistible. Not surprising, then, that diners are encouraged to zuzutto – slurp their noodles vigorously so they receive a mouthful of soup, too. While Ippudo is renowned for its ramen, it also offers a good selection of side dishes like Ippudo shrimp bun (a

Central Embassy (3rd floor), Ploenchit Rd.

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crunchy, deep-fried shrimp in a moist bun. B80 per piece), a flavourful Spicy boiled gyoza (B110), plus new teppan rice creations such as Ippudo teppan tonkotsu spicy rice with nikumiso (B180), a subtly spicy treat served in a portion big enough to share. Well worth a try. When it comes to washing down your food, from juices and smoothies to cocktails and sake, Ippudo has an array of drinks to suit every taste (the refreshing Shochu night, which blends shochu, grapefruit juice and triple sec liqueur, is a must try. B165). Factor in efficient and genuinely friendly staff, and Ippudo is perfect for any occasion.

☎ 02 160 5672 :ippudo.co.th :facebook.com/ippudothailand :instagram.com/ippudothailand

Gourmet

Guest review|BB&B

Luce Restaurant’s rich, creative Italian cuisine receives thumbs up all round

Bangkok Beefsteak & Burgundy

E celebrated our September lunch with a return to Luce at Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn. A few had their eyes on the bathers at the adjacent swimming pool, but others gave their undivided attention to Geoff Merrill Wickham Park Sauvignon Blanc 2012 and two very tasty offerings of Smoked salmon tart and Mini crostini with Tuscan chicken liver sauce. I thought the Sauvignon Blanc was good value with great fresh flavours of gooseberry and elderflower. Dining proper was conducted in a private room with wonderful views on three sides, exactly the right size for the 13 diners in attendance. We got off to an excellent start with Marinated beef tongue slices served with parsley green sauce and preserved fruits, introduced in person by Chef Edoardo Bonavolta. This dish was accompanied by Framingham Pinot Noir 2011 (New Zealand) and both were praised in turn by Food Spokesman, Mike Usher, and Wine Spokesman, Thomas Boedinger. Others thought the Pinot will be even better in a few years’ time. To follow there came more Pinot and Ravioli filled with beef

shank and potatoes, served on beef bone-marrow “gremolata” – rich and enjoyable. Korobuta Pork cheek, sous vide then pan-seared, served with mushroom and wine reduction on goat cheese flavoured mash potatoes was the main dish of the day. I found that the pork

cheek had to be eaten with lots of the mushroom sauce to secure a full appreciation of the dish, but this was an imaginative choice by the Chef and it found favour with Mike. Villa Trasqua Finatico, Chianti Classico Riserva 2008 earned deserved approval from Thomas and others. We were starting to become satiated as all the foregoing dishes were rich, hearty servings. Relief came in the form of Panna cotta with mango and peachpassion sauce and a wonderful dessert wine, Malvoisie du Valais. An Italian cheese platter with honey and mustard fruits and more Chianti Classico completed an excellent lunch. Throughout the meal the service was excellent, especially from the diligent Khun Oom. She was accompanied by several other servers and Chef Edoardo for the reception of compliments and rewards. Overall, this was an excellent experience and Luce deserves much more custom in the days to come. Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn, Luce, 33/1 South Sathorn Rd. Tel: 02 210 8100 www.eastingrandsathorn.com

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Chef in focus|Aumnart Chaowanklang

SERVING UP

Favourite international chefs? Chef Ringo and Chef Wan Aumnart from the Michelin-starred The Mira Hong Kong. I was fortunate enough to work with them and they introduced me to a whole new level of Cantonese culinary arts. Favourite cooking utensils? Being a Chinese chef, I’m a huge fan of the wok. A spatula is essential, too.

Worst kitchen disaster? Most culinary problems can be solved easily, but a shortage of staff, or lack of quality staff, will always lead to difﬁculties – as I unfortunately discovered in the past.

Chaowanklang

The Chinese Sous Chef of Swissôtel Le Concorde Bangkok shares his culinary secrets

Favourite breakfast? Just coffee. Most used cookbook? Google is actually my go to source for information at the moment. Hundreds of inspiring recipes are available online.

Your alltime favourite restaurant? “Cuisine Cuisine” of The Mira Hong Kong Hotel. I want to explore more Michelin-starred Chinese restaurants. Most challenging ingredient to Signature work with? dish? Abalone. Seafood cooked in a Cantonese style. Given 30 mins to create a meal, what would you cook? Lobster salad Shanghai style.

What’s your cooking philosophy? To respect culinary traditions, to continuously improve my skills, and to work hard to ensure diners are delighted by my food.

Best meal you’ve had this year? Any meal cooked by my mum! She’s an amazing chef.

Your favourite Chinese cuisine? Cantonese.

About the chef

Favourite non-Chinese cuisine? Thai cuisine.

■ AS Sous Chinese Chef of the Swissôtel Le Concorde Bangkok, Aumnart Chaowanklang is in charge of cooking Chinese food for all of the hotel’s outlets, special functions, and sumptuous Sunday Brunch. Beginning his culinary career in 1991 at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, he has enjoyed stints working at hotels such as The Grand Hotel Bangkok, Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square, The Westin Grande Sukhumvit Bangkok, and, prior to joining Swissôtel Le Concorde Bangkok in 2012, the Soﬁtel Silom Bangkok. Swissôtel Le Concorde Bangkok, 204 Rachadapisek Rd., Huay Kwang

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☎ 02 694 2222 :swissotel.com/hotels/bangkok-concorde

Dining|Recipe

Recipe of the month New Zealand lamb with balsamic sauce Tender and tasty and easy to cook, this delicious recipe by Manas Saytongkum, Sous Chef of The SQUARE Restaurant at Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square, is perfect for meat lovers looking for a quick bite at home Ingredients (Serves 1) • 120g lamb • 50g olive oil • 30g garlic • 20g egg plant • 20g zucchini • 20g tomato • 20g onion • 5g dried rosemary • 5g dried basil • 5g dried thyme • 30g balsamic sauce • 20g honey • A pinch of salt • A pinch of pepper

Method 1. In a small bowl, mix together the dried herbs, a pinch of salt and pepper and olive oil before coating the lamb evenly. Leave the lamb aside for about 15 minutes. 2. Shallow fry the lamb in a very hot pan until the lamb is golden brown all over. Remove the lamb from the pan, and keep warm on a serving platter.

3. Slice garlic, egg plant, zucchini and tomato evenly before mixing them in a bowl with dried herbs, olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir fry the mixed vegetables until aromatic. 4. Place the stir-fried vegetables next to the cooked lamb on a serving plate before drizzling some balsamic sauce over them.

For balsamic sauce 1. In a small saucepan, heat balsamic sauce over medium-low heat until thick. Add honey and chopped onion and stir well.

Chef in focus

ku Chef Manas Sayton 56

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WITH over 14 years’ cooking experience, including time spent operating his own restaurant, Manas Saytonkum certainly knows his way around a kitchen. Focusing on using only the freshest ingredients, he cooks simple, hearty dishes and takes pride in bringing international tastes to Bangkok. Try his creations for yourself at The SQUARE International Buffet Restaurant at Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square. Siam Square Soi 6, Rama 1 Rd.

☎ 02 209 8888 novotelbkk.com

cut out and keep

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Expat WOMEN p Put your feet up and indulge

New vintage may sound like a paradox, but this is exactly what La Boutique is offering with its latest collection. Page 74.

BWWG

Enjoy the latest slice of ﬁction from the Bangkok Women’s Writers Group Page 60

Shopping

Hot new products and stores demanding your attention Page 74

Health

Nutrition expert Judith Coulson on what you can eat to beat back stress Page 76 TheBigChilli

Expat Women

BWWG|Monsoon Midnights

Monsoon Midnights Special places in Bangkok, as experienced by the Bangkok Women’s Writer’s Group Dear reader Welcome to ‘Monsoon Midnights,’ a brand new series of stories by the Bangkok Women’s Writers Group. The storytellers of the BWWG come from all over the world but they all have a special place in this city, somewhere surprising, obscure and unexpected, as yet undiscovered. Follow us to these hidden places right here, month after month.

NIGHTFALL OVER BANGKOK There are some very high places in Bangkok. Places where you can look out and see the city like an interactive map spread out beneath you. This place is insanely busy. And not just where you can see it, or hear it, or feel it. There is a whole other layer of rapid movement, never sleeping, never standing still. Currents. Oscillations. Undulations. Waves. Waves run through the city. They run through the air, and they rrun un through the water. But they also run through what seems to be ssolid olid matter, through walls, through trees, through cars and dogs and people, through the earth itself. Waves carry information, codes that can be decoded, translated into sound and light, a second universe of sound and light that appears on screens and speakers, mimicking the waves of light that reach us from the sun – both us and the moon – and the waves of sound that ripple out from the movement of tiny particles around us. Many of these waves did not exist a few generations ago when talking to someone in the next Soi was impossible, except by moving your entire body, including the human sound system of vocal chords, chest, head and breath, close enough to the ears of the human receiver. In the time of our great grandparents, particles travelled through wires, allowing them to talk from phone to heavy wall mounted phone. Now we can speak from everywhere to everywhere on the planet, at a moment’s notice, through waves reflected in space, voices murmuring in our earphones, closer than a lover’s voice. Without the touch of lips on soft skin. And without the tickle. Some see images in the corners of their glasses, but not many have chosen that. Maybe it interferes with the images we all still see inside our minds, as our ancestors have, as our descendants will. Talking through walls, talking to those who are not present has only been possible for a short time in history, but it was only the technical realisation that was lacking before. Such conversations

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have been a part of human culture for a long, long time. Voices from afar have been heard and spoken, and spoken to, in many stories and legends. And in those stories, it is not just people who can speak, and speak over great distance without corporeal presence. Oh no. Animals can speak, and so can many inanimate objects, animated through narrative, taking on human features, and feelings, and thoughts… And one of the oldest creatures to take on such mysterious powers, to whisper through the waves of the air at a time when it was thought to be empty, is the doll, made in our image. Or, in the case of tonight’s story, a group of dolls, very large dolls… Tonight’s storyteller, Bhavna Khemlani, is one who can hear such elusive sounds, transported on the waves of imagination, and memory, and the opening up of strange other worlds… With the speed of light, riding on the second-hand waves granted to us by the moon, I arrive in a trendy, prosperous street, well past midnight, when the revellers have left, and the shoppers have not yet appeared. But listen! A strange, otherworldly whisper runs down that street, and no one knows how…

Whispers of the Mannequins By Bhavna Khemlani “Seriously! This is the fi fth wedding gown on me this week! What is she even thinking! Who is going to remind the owner that we are the first wedding store on Thonglor road? This wedding gown is simply ugly. It feels thorny. If I feel this way, what about the bride?” “What are you complaining about, Lollypop?” asked Marshmallow. “You wouldn’t understand, Marshmallow. You’re sitting there like a princess flaunting an amazing gown…” “Wait a minute. My butt is sore from being in this position for ages. You wouldn’t understand either,” whined Marshmallow. Their fiberglass bodies resonated. Their voices sent vibes and emotions on secret wavelengths to other mannequins further down the street. It was well past midnight. “Ladies, stop it! Ladies!” came a voice echoing from inside the second wedding studio, a few metres down the row of shop houses. Oreo continued, “Have you no idea that your squeaky yells annoy us all down here and at the other wedding studios on Thonglor? We get your pain! And may I remind you, I am the only man posing in this shiny suit which I would never wear for my wedding!” Soft chuckles reverberated down Thonglor road where all the

promises for memorable weddings are made. “Fine Oreo, I get it,” hissed Lollypop. “But you don’t see Marshmallow seated here on a soft, white furry sofa flaunting her tiara! Every woman who passes by glances at her, leaving an imprinted dream or emotion that infuses Marshmallow with a never-ending flow of energy. Oh, and now she believes she’s become a mirror that can absorb every woman’s nightmare or tears of joy.” “Oreo!” shouted Marshmallow, “I am still digesting the effect every fashion designer has on my bare body. The emotionless and empty soul of every mannequin comes alive with every wedding gown or suit that walks down the aisle for real. I am simply mesmerised!” Oreo, seated on a teak wooden chair, felt the masculine molecules inside his fiberglass body reverberate with escalating speed. His nostrils tickled. Candyfloss, elegantly posing, held her lacy, fanned frilled glove under his nose. “Glory to my ears,” mumbled Oreo. “New customers always walk into the studio with aspirations, with talks about wine and champagne and about having weddings in a park in the Bangkok heat. Men hardly have any say…Candyfloss, are you listening or simply ignoring the dashing man seated out here?” “You really can babble all day long,” said Candyfloss, with a sigh. “Is it really my fault that you get to view the passing cars, while I am punished by facing this cream coloured wall?” Her voice resonated with sarcasm. “I wish you could be more like the sweet cream centre of an Oreo cookie,” she continued. “ And I wish I could break this wall! It simply tarnishes my perception

he Bangkok Women’s Writers Group, founded in 2001, and led by Anette Pollner (who also writes the recurring ‘moon intro’ stories in this series in her famous neo psychedelic style), is where creative women from all over the world meet to workshop their writing in a supportive and inspiring environment. Many of our members are published and prize winning authors, but we are open to all women who are passionate about writing, including complete beginners. The BWWG has published a Thai English language bestseller, ‘Bangkok Blondes,’ and various pamphlets. We regularly give readings around town and have been part of international festivals and cultural exchanges. Please contact bkk_writers@yahoo.com for more information. This month’s storyteller is Bhavna Khemlani, a lecturer and founding member of the Asia Pacific Writers and Translators Association. She is a passionate author of short stories, poems, articles, and novels including, ‘The Wisher’s Well’ and ‘Maples: Rejuvenating Cocktail.’ Bhavna launched her latest novel, ‘The Classroom: Ashley and her Mystical Tale’ at the Asian Festival of Children’s Content and Asia Pacific Writers & Translators Conference, 2014, Singapore.

of being part of this wedding studio, ‘Number Two’. All day long we’ve heard the exhausting discussions of wedding promotions, pictures, and packages, not to mention the exaggerated compliments showered on couples whose hormones then go haywire. And now all the other mannequins on the street are waking up to our midnight resonance. Can’t you hear them? I won’t be surprised if Cremecheez from the third studio down the road articulates her wisdom soon. Even though none of us can see each other, we are certainly not deaf.” A husky chuckle, “Oh she…the wise and less cynical one!” laughed Oreo. “Well, she is in the street’s most posh wedding studio (‘Number Three’, Candyfloss, is really number one in this street!) and she wouldn’t know much about a ticklish nostril.” “You know I can hear you,” said Cremecheez, her voice resonating in preachy fashion. “I am so not death either. I like that. And I am wise. “I’ve been here, you know, ever since wedding shops opened on Thonglor. But don’t forget that I am just like you. I don’t have a wig, and I have to wear the same expression all day and all night, with no make-up. In fact, some days I feel like I’ll be pouting this way forever. “But – and it’s a big but – I am aging. And who knows, if one day my arm falls off, I will be of no value anymore. Remember, we are all sailing the same boat and gladly manipulated, sweethearts.” Cremecheez spoke from her heart, a heart enveloped in high-tech fiberglass and plastic. For a moment the other two shops fell silent as the mannequins absorbed the ghostly truth. Marshmallow and Lollypop understood clearly what Cremecheez meant. A haunting realisation swept over everyone.

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BWWG|Monsoon Midnights

“So…Cremecheez made her point,” whispered Lollypop. “Doesn’t she always?” said Marshmallow. “She is like the mother of all of us. And once again she highlighted the deadly truth – that no makeover could ever save us.” Marshmallow fell silent for a moment, lost in thoughts about friends who had suddenly disappeared without a trace. And then she remembered Marmalade. What has happened to her? Why hasn’t she pitched in with a sob or complaint during this discussion, as she usually would? In fact, she’d been quiet for a few days now. “Has anybody heard Marmalade?” she ventured, staring out of the window, wondering w ondering if Marmalade would go off like a tornado again. Humming a happy tune, Oreo focused on his smug smile. Hee felt content to have only one expression, but it belayed what H he felt when he remembered Marmalade’s nasty accident. He recalled the loud thump that had echoed down the entire Thonglor road. Sigh...“Candyfloss, do you remember when I told you how Marmalade was accidentally pushed onto the marble floor, and all the commotion that followed?” “Phew! How could I forget? That day, we all contracted fearoma,” said Candyfloss. “The aroma of fear pierced every fibre inside of us. And as usual Cremecheez made our day livelier with her preaching.” “That bizarre moment of our existence was bruised, and it’s now rubbed in salt consistently by wannabe mama, Cremecheez,” said Oreo. Candyfloss saw an ant crawling along the cream wall in front of her. She gazed at the insect, marvelling at the way it paraded its freedom. Her thoughts flipped 180 degrees. “Go anty,” she said with glee. “Go save your life from the hungry baby lizzy!” Oreo smiled at Candyfloss’s excitement and wondered why Marshmallow was quiet. “Marshy! Marshy!” he called out. “What is it Oreo?” answered Marshmallow. “Oreo, did you see something interesting? What’s up your sleeve this time?” asked Lollypop curiously. “I was going to ask you that,” said Oreo. “What’s new at your wedding studio? It’s been quiet here the past two days. You must have had better luck, though, considering your the first store on the street?” “Nah! I am still wearing the same wedding dress,” Lollypop whined. “I wish I could show it to you.” “Who asked you about your wedding gown, Lollypop?” teased Oreo. “Stop being a smarty pants, Oreo,” Lollypop teased back. A scream then cut through the din. “Keep your tiny, whiny, and curious mouths sealed!” shrieked Marmalade from the store room. “Ah bridezilla, she spoke.” whispered Marshmallow. “She actually said something.” “Stop whispering Marshmallow,” sobbed Marmalade, “I am just on the second floor. We share the same wedding haven! You

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are where I was! Oreo and I were dressed in the finest wedding attire, until I was diagnosed with broken fiberglass all the way through my wrist. I lost two fingers from my right hand and still have a chipped cheek. And you guys complain and whine for no reason. Don’t forget, we are all cut from the same cloth, or rather cast from the same mould in the factory. Come and experience this dark room. I have been wearing this yellow sequined gown for weeks now. It’s dusty and smells of my agonizing pain…” “We didn’t mean to hurt your feelings!” said Marshmallow. “And for the goodness of all mannequins, now look who’s complaining. When we whine, take it as a news flash of your own agonizing pain...” “I still like your name, Marmalade,” interrupted Lollypop, “You must have been showered with a rain of fructose because you always got to wear the brightest gowns.” “Whatever! I know you ladies are just trying to calm me down, but I can’t take this anymore,” Marmalade sobbed. “The brides and grooms will fulfil more fairy-tale weddings while you guys will continue to tell new stories every day. “I don’t like this dress or this room, and I am ready for someone to completely dismantle me so that I can just return to my original fluid form and come alive after being recycled. I am ready to get back into my birthday suit. Thanks anyway. I shall mourn in silence.” The bitter truth lay calmy on the bed of the dark night. “How can she be sweet then attack us with bitterness! I shall continue flaunting my charming grin,” thought Oreo. “Phew, Marmalade, darling, I am with you,” said Cremecheez from her posh wedding studio. “The imprints of dreams and emotions sailing through wedding chapels are my forte. Who would understand this more than I! You will be recycled some day. Like all of us. So don’t worry. For now, enjoy the moment.” The moon is reluctant to leave tonight. Second-hand as its light may be, it is all the light it has. It wants to stay awhile. It wants to shine while it can. I understand that. I, too, am determined to hang onto whatever light I can find, to ride on any wave that will let me. However insignificant, this is my life. Jumping from wave to wave, piggybacking on radiation, radio, microwaves and the dying moonlight, I make my way back to my perch high up above the city and take a deep breath. Tonight, at least, I am still here. And then the moon slips down below the horizon, just in a few heartbeats, just like that. It’s no big deal. Really, it isn’t. We will see the moon rise again next month, when Monsoon Midnights returns. Anette Pollner, leader of the BWWG

Expat Women

Education |News

School Report UK University Fair 2014

THE largest private UK university fair to ever take place in Bangkok will be held on Wed Oct 29 at The Landmark Bangkok Hotel (3pm-8pm). Students will have the opportunity to meet with over 90 UK universities in one location, at one time, completely free of charge. Students who attend are able to meet directly with academics, admission officers and international representatives from these universities to get all the information they need about studying in the UK. Register online for free at www.ukunifair.co.uk/bkk.

Connecting ASEAN Plus 2014

THE Friends of the Arts Foundation’s free 10-day workshop returns on Oct 17 – 26 at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre with a celebration of ASEAN culture, spanning from Khon dancing to martial arts and even meditation. Excerpts from Pina and Rina, choreographed by Rina Schenfeld of the Batsheve Dance Company, will also be performed on Oct 26 at 5pm. For more info see www.friends-of-the-arts.info.

NIST students set new IB record

NIST International School’s newly graduated class of 2014 were applauded by their teachers after they smashed the global average IB Diploma Scores to set a new school record. Like most other forms of standardized assessment, world averages remain relatively constant, hovering just under 30 out of a possible 45 points annually (with 24 being the passing mark). NIST students have surpassed that standard every year, earning an average of 33 to 35, and the 80 members of the newly graduated Class of 2014 who chose to pursue the diploma set a record with an average score of 36. Even more impressive, 41% of the NIST students received 38 or more points, and 28% received 40 or more – compared to the respective 9% and 5% worldwide who earned those same scores.

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Bangkok Patana awarded The Design Mark

BANGKOK Patana School is the first school in Thailand to have been awarded The Design Mark in recognition of its excellence in teaching design. This quality standards framework has been developed by the UK Government’s Department for Education, The Design Council and the Design & Technology Association. As a Design Mark holder, the school joins an elite list of only 51 other schools in the world, and just two outside of the UK, who are delivering exceptional design education to their students. The school’s excellence in design teaching is reflected through its 2014 (I) GCSE results for Design & Technology, with 50% of Bangkok Patana candidates receiving an A*, and a further 29% achieving an A grade.

Food and crafts at Regents Pattaya

A FUN day out for the whole family is on offer at Regents International School Pattaya’s Fine Foods and Artisan Fair. Held on Sun Oct 12 from 11am-3pm, the free-to-enter fair will see over twenty exhibitors presenting tasty recipes and an array of arts and crafts. Gourmet delights will range from fine wines and organic veggies to melt in your mouth deli meats. www.regents-pattaya.co.th

School Report

Promotion|Harrow

HARROW SCHOOL BANGKOK – WHERE STUDENTS NEVER REALLY LEAVE A strong community spirit ensures bonds with students remain long after graduation

■ ON the large green campus of Harrow International School Bangkok, our Sixth Form facilities are improving to meet the demand for places. Harrow Bangkok is keen to acknowledge its existing students and other outstanding students from around the region by offering Academic Scholarships to those young people with outstanding all-round academic profiles. Scholarships were recently awarded to twelve very high IGCSE achievers who are now starting their A level studies in the school’s Sixth Form. And our scholarship programme is proving to be a success – two recently graduated scholars, Raimy and Kalina, have just commenced their first semester at Tufts University in the USA on merit based scholarships.

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Through our strong global Alumni links, we are currently receiving news of other recent graduates starting their university courses, making new friends and starting new lives; Harrow seems to have prepared them well. Rainy, our Head Girl 2013-14, is heading off to start her undergraduate studies at the University of Cambridge reading Economics. In the time she has before departure she’s volunteered in our Economics Department, attending classes with our younger students and supporting their studies through her genuine interest in Economics. Meanwhile, Pie, last year’s Head Boy, is busy planning a trip to teach English in a school in rural NE Thailand through our Leadership in Action programme, before heading off to the UK to study Civil Engineering at Imperial College, University of London. Whether it is a group of our graduates popping in to enjoy one last school orchestra rehearsal together, or overseas Alumni connecting via social media to offer advice to our current Sixth Form students, Harrow Students never really leave – Once a Harrovian ALWAYS a Harrovian. As our interconnected Harrow world continues to develop, it’s evident that we educate our students to succeed academically, but also to appreciate their responsibility to lead change for the better. A Harrow education is like no other. – Karen Prout, Head of Sixth Form at Harrow Bangkok www.harrowschool.ac.th

School Report

Promotion|Shrewsbury

ShrewSbury knowS excellence – It’S In the reSultS Top grades see students secure places at world’s best universities ■ SHREWSBURY International School is once again celebrating outstanding results in public examinations. At IGCSE, 41% of all examinations taken were awarded the top A* grade, with 69% scoring either A or A* (compared to a UK average of 21%), whilst special congratulations go to two exceptional students who received straight A*s. These results represent a truly remarkable feat for the whole year group, over 30 of whom are now awarded honorary scholarships for their efforts.

Meanwhile, at A-Level, 75% of the examinations taken by the Class of 2014 graduates achieved A*, A or B grades. These impressive results secure places at top universities around the world for all of our graduating class, including Oxford, Cambridge, Brown, Carnegie Mellon, Washington, Royal College of Music, LSE, UCL, Imperial, Bristol, Edinburgh, Durham and Rice universities. Leading these results are four outstanding students who are awarded scholarships for their straight A*

performances: Sam Dolton, who now reads economics at Girton College Cambridge; Pharson Chalermkraivuth, electrical and computer engineering at Rice; Phapimol Yoovidhya, computer science at Carnegie Mellon; and Chayanid Prapassarangkul, computer science and a golf scholar at the University of Illinois. They are named as this year’s Sir David Lees Scholars – an award which is endorsed annually by Vice Chairman of Governors at Shrewsbury International School and former Chair of the Court of the Bank of England, Sir David Lees. Wonderful careers beckon for them and for the rest of our graduating class. “It is a great personal pleasure to congratulate all members of the Shrewsbury community on the wonderful A-level and IGCSE results achieved last year,” says School Principal, Mr. Stephen Holroyd. “It is very much a team effort, with students, teachers and parents all involved. The achievements of the graduating class of 2014 and our new Sixth Formers provide inspiration of course, right across the school.” Shrewsbury International School congratulates the Class of 2014 on their success and wishes them the very best of luck with their future studies. www.shrewsbury.ac.th

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Insight

Business|Promotion

Koochie Thailand brings playgrounds up to date Company’s state-of-the-art equipment meets the highest international standards

■ KOOCHIE Play Systems, an exclusive manufacturer of outdoor playground and fitness equipment and safety flooring, has now opened its first office in Thailand. The launch marks an important milestone in the company’s history, which has operations in 11 countries across the globe. Koochie Play was established in 2006 in Bangalore, India, by entrepreneur Roben Dass, with a mission to offer playground equipment that meets the highest international standards in terms of quality, aesthetics, product life design, planning, execution and most importantly, child safety. In less than five years the company earned distinctive safety certifications in France and Australia, and also established operations in more than 10 countries. Koochie is one of the few companies worldwide to be awarded the prestigious EN 1176 certification (the highest safety certification given to playground equip-

ment in Europe) and the AS 4685 and NZS 4486 (Australia and New Zealand’s safety certifications). Koochie has also recently joined the elite group of companies that have received the latest DIN 79000-2012 certification for its outdoor fitness range of products. Koochie is present in India, United Arab Emirates, Morocco, France, Australia, Philippines, Lebanon and Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Netherlands and Philippines.

Koochie Thailand, headed by Sam Sheriff, marks the company’s entry into the kingdom. “Over the past few months Thailand, a popular tourist destination, has been moving towards more family-friendly tourist attractions,” he says. “There are more parks, residential complexes, resorts and hotels being built, with a focus on special playgrounds for children, which translates into an immense opportunity for Koochie Play for its outdoor playground systems and fitness equipment systems.” Koochie Play is known around the world for its quality of products. All components used in Koochie Play Systems are manufactured in state-of-the-art OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) facilities in Korea, Taiwan and China under strict quality control measures backed with the latest technology, such as robotic welding, rotomoulding, latest paint finishes, etc. “Koochie also intends to foster better relationships between Thailand and India,” says Sam. “Towards this endeavour, Koochie is organizing Connections 2014 – an exclusive networking opportunity for Bangkok’s leading architects and landscape consultants with their Indian counterparts.” For more information on Koochie Play Systems please log on to www.koochieplay.com, or contact Sam Sheriff on Tel: 0818574328 email: sheriffsam@me.com

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preparingâ&#x20AC;Ś for university Bangkok Prep is proud to offer A Level Diploma

scholarships Students with outstanding achievements are welcome to apply now. admissions.spvr@bkkprep.ac.th www.bkkprep.ac.th

02-260-7890

Sukhumvit 53

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Shopping|New products

L’AMOUR DE MONACO ■ ‘NEW vintage’ may sound like a paradox, but this is exactly what Thai fashion brand La Boutique is offering with its 2014 collection, L’Amour de Monaco. Inspired by styles worn in Monaco during the ’50s, the brand’s Creative Director, Patcharawat Trakansantikul, has taken the period’s iconic silhouettes and shapes and fused them with his signature touches of feminine classic flair. Aping the kind of attire worn by the late American film actress and Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly (think Alfred Hitchcock’s 1954 movie “Dial M for Murder”), Patcharawat’s short and long dresses come adorned with extravagant

CH CAROLINA HERRERA ARRIVES IN THAILAND ■ SINCE launching her eponymous brand in New York in 1981, Venezuelan-American fashion designer Carolina Herrera has gone on to open boutiques throughout Europe, America, the Middle East and Asia. Thailand’s first branch – a large store at Central Embassy Bangkok – has now opened stocking all the brand’s much-loved luxury accessories, such as handbags, jewellery, shoes and small leather goods, as well as women’s and men’s clothing ranging from casual sportswear to impeccably tailored suits and elegant evening separates. Swish. www.centralembassy.com

Talking beadworks in a variety of elegant colours, and they all team brilliantly with his new star-shaped shoulder purses. La Boutique Flagship Store, Level 2, Eden Zone of CentralWorld Plaza Tel: 02 613 1501; La Boutique Corner, Level 1 of Paragon Department Store Tel: 090 797 2479.

Shop Hot products and stores demanding your attention

COLOURFUL CONVERSE ■ CONVERSE has long reigned supreme as the queen of

women’s plimsolls and, judging by its new Chuck Taylor All Star series, there’s no danger of the brand losing its foothold anytime soon. Perfect for women on the go, the new Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Rubber protects from rain and mud (perfect, then, for Bangkok’s rain-sloshed streets) and comes in a variety of rich monochromatic colours. Also look out for the Chuck Taylor All Star Back Zip, available in a vintage wash; and the The Chuck Taylor All Star Feathers, which features a photo-real feather print available in high-top and low-top styles. Prices start at around B1,900. Available now at all Converse retailers. www.converse.com

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EARLY XMAS SHOPPING ■ YOU can get ahead with your year-end shopping at this month’s edition of the ThaiCraft Fair at Jasmine City Building (Sukhumvit Soi 23, near Asok BTS). As well as a range of handmade products direct from the villagers who create them, the Fair will also feature a booth operated by artisans from Klong Toey’s Hope Cards group, where you can create your own festive cards. Sat Oct 11. Open 10am-3pm. www.thaicraft.org

HAPPY SNAPPING ■ INSTAGRAM addicts in search of a new smartphone may want to check out the latest offering from Chinese phone maker Vivo. The brand’s new camera-centric Android smartphone, Xshot, is the first mobile to pack a 13mp camera with both a fast f/1.8 lens speed and optical image stabilization. So this means you can snap camera quality pics without the need to lug a camera around. Starts at B16,990. www.vivo.co.th

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Health|What to eat

By Judith Coulson

How to beat back stress – with food! A healthy diet goes a long way to establishing a better frame of mind ■ PHYSICAL – but more often emotional – stress can impact our health and wellbeing in many different ways. Depression, hormone imbalances, chronic pain and disease – you name it. Put yourself under too much stress, and the outcome is never good. Avoiding stress entirely, of course, isn’t possible, and we all feel under the cosh at one point or another. But it’s how we handle this stress that makes the biggest difference to our health. Thankfully, there are many stressbusting strategies you can follow that help, including, for starters, being careful about what you eat. That’s right. Fill up with the right fuel, and you can stop stress in its tracks. Read on to find out how. How stress reducing foods work?

Foods can help tame stress in several ways. Comfort foods, like a bowl of warm oatmeal, boost levels of serotonin, a calming brain chemical. Other foods can cut levels of cortisol and adrenaline, stress hormones that take a toll on the body over time. A healthy diet can help counter the impact of stress by shoring up the immune system and lowering blood pressure.

Complex carbs

All carbs prompt the brain to make more serotonin. For a steady supply of this feelgood chemical, it’s best to eat complex carbs, which take longer to digest. Wholegrains like rice, breads, and pasta are a good choice. Complex carbs can also help you feel balanced by stabilizing blood sugar levels.

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Oranges

Oranges make the list for their wealth of vitamin C. Studies suggest this vitamin can curb levels of stress hormones while strengthening the immune system. In one study of people with high blood pressure, blood pressure and levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) returned to normal faster when people eat vitamin C rich foods before a stressful task

Black tea

Drinking black tea may help you recover from stressful events more quickly. One study compared people who drank four cups of tea daily for six weeks with people who drank another beverage. The tea drinkers reported feeling calmer and had lower levels of cortisol after stressful situations.

Spinach

Too little magnesium may trigger headaches and fatigue, compounding the effects of stress. One cup of spinach helps you stock back up on magnesium. Don’t like spinach? Other green, leafy vegetables are good magnesium sources. Or try some cooked soybeans or a fillet of salmon, also high in magnesium.

Fatty fish

To keep stress in check, make sure you eat lots of naturally fatty fish. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel and tuna, can prevent surges in stress hormones and may help protect against heart disease, depression, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). For a steady supply of feel-good omega-3s, aim to eat three ounces of fatty fish at least twice a week. If you don’t eat fish, add a tablespoon of grinded flaxseed to your breakfast.

Avocados

One of the best ways to reduce high blood pressure is to get enough potassium, and half an avocado has more potassium than a medium-sized banana. A little bit of guacamole, made from avocado, might be a good choice when stress has you craving a high-fat treat. Avocados are high in fat and calories, though, so watch your portion size.

Almonds

Almonds are chock-full of helpful vitamins: vitamin E to bolster the immune system, plus B vitamins, which may make you more resilient during bouts of stress or depression. Eating a handful of pistachios, walnuts, or almonds every day may help lower your cholesterol, ease inflammation in your heart’s arteries, make diabetes less likely, and protect you against the effects of stress. Don’t overdo it, though: Nuts are rich in calories.

Raw Veggies

Crunchy raw vegetables can help ease stress in a purely mechanical way. Munching celery or carrot sticks helps release a clenched jaw, and that can ward off tension. Not to mention the additional vitamins you get with it.

Milk

Another bedtime stress buster is the timehonored glass of warm milk. Research shows that calcium eases anxiety and mood swings linked to PMS. If drinking a glass of milk in the evening is a daily habit, I recommend to use 2% milk and if possible organic.

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Herbal supplements, teas & oils

There are many herbal supplements that claim to fight stress. One of the best studied is St. John’s Wort, which has shown benefits for people with mild to moderate depression. Chamomile tea is one of the best known herbal teas to calm your nerves and stomach, best taken after dinner or before bed to promote a good night’s sleep. A trick I use after a busy day, is to use a lavender oil based shower gel or bath salt before going to bed, and in worst cases drop some lavender oil on my pillow.

De-stress with exercise

Besides changing your diet, one of the best stress-busting strategies is to start exercising. Aerobic exercise boosts oxygen circulation and spurs your body to make feel-good chemicals called endorphins. Aim for 30 minutes of aerobic exercise three to four times a week. If you are prone to high stress, and don’t sleep well, I suggest you start your exercise with a cool down. Just walk for 30 min, or bicycle on medium level, before starting your aerobic exercise. Judith Coulson is a Medical Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach, specialized in drug free disease prevention and health promotion, for individuals and executive teams. Contact Judith@coulson-holding. com for individual Food and Lifestyle Analysis and Consulting.

3/27/14 11:41 AM

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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 O C T O B E R 1 4

What’s on pArt pPerformance pSport pFootball pMovies & Albums pBooks

The Bangkok International Rugby 7s returns on Nov 8. Page 89.

Pop diva

Mariah Carey brings her Elusive Chanteuse Show to Bangkok Page 82

Ice hockey

The Land of Smiles Hockey Classic slides into town on Oct 28 Page 84

Music run

Run, dance or walk your way through five different musical zones Page 84 TheBigChilli 79

What’s On|Exhibitions

Art

Genii Loci

INSPIRED by the concept of the ‘circle of life,’ and how people attach memories to objects, the latest body of work by furniture designer, artist, architect and interior designer Rush Pleansuk presents a series of sculptures which blend modernist techniques with traditional Thai craftmanship. The opening reception will be held on Tues Oct 21 at 6.30pm.

2/10 7/12

Ardel’s Third Place Gallery, Sukhumvit 55, Thonglor Soi 10. Open Tues-Sat 10.30am-7pm; Sun 10.30am-5.30pm (closed Mon) 02 422 2092 :ardelgallery.com

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UNTIL 2/11

Forest – Tread – Breath

TREES, vines and grass are the focus of this series of woodblock prints by Surasak Sornsena, whose exquisite attention to detail results in images that, at first glance, could almost be mistaken for being black and white photographs. DOB Hualamphong Gallery, DOB Building 4F, 318 Rama 4 Rd. Open Tues-Sat 10.30am-7pm; Sun 10.30am-5.30pm (closed Mon). 02 237 5592-4 :ardelgallery.com

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7/10 9/11 To the Land of Happiness

IN his latest body of work, young sculptor Manop Suwanpinta explores how materialism and consumerism impact society – particularly the moral standards of the masses – especially when people become obsessed with the accumulation of wealth.

Ardel Gallery of Modern Art, Boromrachachonnanee Rd. Open Tues-Sat 10.30am-7pm; Sun 10.30am-5.30pm (closed Mon). 02 422 2092 :ardelgallery.com

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UNTIL 15/10

Vira’s Etching

SOMBAT Permpoon Gallery is currently exhibiting a rare series of prints by the late Thai artist Vira Jothaprasert (1934-2002), a watercolour and etching specialist fondly remembered for introducing Thai modern art to the world. Created between 1971-1977, this series focuses on daily life in Thailand and features two-dimensional landscapes and portraits brought to life with watercolour highlights.

Sombat Permpoon Gallery, 12 Sukhumvit Soi 1. Open daily 9am-8pm 02 254 6040 :sombatpermpoongallery.com

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9/10 8/11 The Hidden Beauty

BEAUTY is in the eye of the beholder, goes the old saying, meaning that every person has a different view on what or whom is deemed attractive. Here, Laotian artist Sisalay Sisaveuy explores this concept with a range of paintings of a young woman’s face. Beautiful or ordinary? You decide. Number 1 Gallery, 919/1 The Silom Galleria Bld., Silom Rd. Open Mon-Sa2 10am-7pm 02 630 3381 :number1gallery.com

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What’s On|Performance

Stage Sergio Mendes

ONE of the most internationally successful Brazilian artists of all time, Sergio Mendes has recorded more than 35 albums, many of which went gold or platinum, and he’s a three-time Grammy Award winner. Lots to admire, then, when he takes to the stage to showcase his talents at Central Plaza Chaeng Wattana Hall.

19/11 Bring Me The Horizon

THE British metalcore five piece behind headbanging hits such as Shadow Moses, Sleepwalking, and Can You Feel My Heart are set to whip up a mosh pit storm when they perform for one night only at Bangkok’s Centerpoint Studio. Gnarly. Centerpoint Studio, Sukhumvit 105. Show starts 8pm. Tickets: B1,500 :thaiticketmajor.com

17/10

Central Plaza Chaeng Wattana Hall. Show starts 8pm. Tickets range B1,000-B5,000 :thaiticketmajor.com

13/11

A Night at the Musicals WEST End Musicals maestro Michael England is returning for the second consecutive year to weave his interpretive magic on a magnificent potpourri of showstoppers – from no less than fourteen top musicals. Expect stirring performances from the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra and guest singers John Owen-Jones and Leila Benn Harris. Thailand Cultural Centre Main Hall. Show starts 8pm. Tickets range B500-B2,500 :thaiticketmajor.com

Also this month 17/10 – 26/10

World Film Festival of Bangkok

Short films, experimental films, documentaries and animations are all expected at the 12th edition of this annual international film fest. Film workshops and film-related talks will also be held. :worldﬁlmbkk.com 17/10 – 19/10

Barney Live in Concert

JOIN purple dinosaur Barney as he celebrates his birthday with a concert of his most famous singalong songs. Performances in English on Oct 18 at 3pm and 6pm, and on Oct 19 at the same times. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani. Tickets range B800-B2,200 :thaiticketmajor.com

UNTIL 26/10

Bangkok’s International Festival of Dance & Music

30/10 Mariah: The Elusive Chanteuse Show

THE Bangkok leg of pop diva Mariah Carey’s Southeast Asia tour will see the bubbly songstress serenade her fans with tunes from her 14th studio album, The Elusive Chanteuse, alongside chart-topping hits from her past. Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani. Doors open at 8pm. Tickets range B1,500-B8,000 :thaiticketmajor.com

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NOW in its 16th year, Thailand’s largest annual performing arts festival returned last month with another genre-hopping programme of concerts, operas, classical ballets, contemporary dances, and even some jazz. The good news is that it’s not over yet. This month’s highlights include performances by Columbian salsa dancers Delirio (Oct 14); the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra (Oct 20); and the Stuttgart Ballet (Oct 25-26). Find the full programme at bangkokfestivals.com. Thailand Cultural Centre Main Hall, 14 Thiam Ruam Mit Rd. :thaiticketmajor.com

24/10 – 25/10

A Tribute to Glenn Miller & the Andrews Sisters ENJOY a night of ’40s and ’50s hits as performed by the combined bands of Music of the Heart & B2F/Jazziam at Checkinn 99. Show starts at 8pm. B500 Book online at :checkinn99bkk.com 9/10 – 13/10 & 16/10-19/10

The Closing of Love

CATCH Pascale Lambert’s Cloture de L’amour (the French Drama Critics Association’s Best New Play in 2012) being performed at Chulalongkorn University. Weekday shows start at 7.30pm (weekends at 2pm). The play will be in Thai with surtitles in English and French. B600 (B300 for students). :facebook.com/dramaartschula?fref=ts

What’s On|Movies & Music

Screen

AUTOMATA

9/10

THE BABADOOK

SCARE your socks off prior to Halloween by sitting in the dark to watch this creepy tale about a six-year-old boy Samuel (Noah Wiseman), whose dreams are plagued by a sinister monster he believes is coming to kill him and his mum (Essie Davis). While she dismisses his dreams at first, things soon change when a disturbing storybook called ‘The Babadook’ turns up at their home. Spooky.

ROBOTS take on a Terminator-style edge in this Sci-fi actioner by Spanish filmmaker Gabe Ibanez, whose dystopian future sees man-made machines override their safety protocols and start acting of their own free will. Out to locate the source of the manipulation is insurance agent Jacq Vaucan (Antonio Banderas), who, judging by the recent trailer, is in for one wild ride.

16/10 23/10 THE BEST OF ME

BASED on the bestselling novel by chick-lit king Nicholas Sparks, TBOM tells the story of Dawson (James Marsden) and Amanda (Michelle Monaghan), two former high school sweethearts who find themselves reunited after 20 years apart. While their bittersweet reunion reignites the love they’ve never forgotten, they soon discover the forces which first drove them apart still live on, and pose even more serious threats today.

FURY

DIRECTOR David Ayer’s (End of Watch) Second-World War tank thriller stars Brad Pitt, Shia LaBeouf, Logan Lerman, Jon Bernthal, Michael Peña, Jason Isaacs, and Scott Eastwood as the five-man crew of a Sherman tank who are sent behind enemy lines on a deadly mission to strike at the heart of Nazi Germany.

Movie screenings are subject to change. Keep up to date at majorcineplex.com

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What’s On|Outdoor fun

Sport

1/11

The Music Run

AN un-timed, non-competitive 5km fun run, The Music Run by AIA course gives participants the chance to run, dance, or walk through five 1km music zones, each representing a different genre of music. Held at Suan Luang Rama IX Park. B700 (register online). :themusicrun.com

9/11 Vertical Marathon

ANYONE who’s enjoyed a few glasses of wine at the Banyan Tree Bangkok’s famous Vertigo Bar will attest that the building is breathtakingly high. To find out just how high it is, sign yourself up for this thigh-burning race which sees participants tackle 61 flights of stairs. Now in its 16th year, the race is open to all ages and levels of fitness. The time to beat is 6 minutes and 45 seconds, previously achieved by an elite runner. :goadventureasia.com

28/10 1/11

Land of Smiles Hockey Classic

CANADA’S most famous sport slides into Bangkok this month for five days of ice hockey action at Central Plaza Rama 9. Sit rinkside with a drink and snack and pretend you’re in Toronto when visiting five-aside teams go head-to-head in puck-smacking fashion. :jogsports.com

1/11

Relentless Endurance Race

1/11 2/11

STAMINA is the name of the game in the third edition of this annual endurance race, which gives runners up to 24 hours to push their bodies to the limit. Held in Huay Tung Tao Reservoir, Chiang Mai, the event features a scenic 3.7 km paved asphalt loop with just enough hills to make it interesting. :goadventureasia.com

Thailand Ultramarathon

18/10 25/10

HELD over two weekends and split between 50km and 100km off-road distances, the Thailand Ultramarathon is perfect for any experienced athlete looking for their next big challenge. Each course begins and ends in the Shan tribal village of Ban Tham (on the main Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son road, just a few kilometers from the Burmese border) and takes in lots of stunning scenery. Not fit enough to run? Don’t worry. Walkers are also welcome to join the event. :thailandultramarathon.com

Cancer Care Charity Fun Run

NOW in its 21st year, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok’s annual charity fundraiser will once again see runners, joggers and walkers embark on a 5km or 10km loop of Lumphini Park to help raise money for the Hematological Cancer Research Center and the Genetic Cancer Research Center at Chulalongkorn Hospital. Registration from 7am-7.45am. Starts at 8.05am. Minimum donation B350. :goadventureasia.com

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What’s On|Rugby

Rugby mania sweeps Thailand THE whole of Asia has taken rugby to its heart. From Singapore to Shanghai, Vietnam to Vientiane, clubs and teams are springing up, attracted by the sportsmanship, camaraderie, toughness and honesty of the sport as well as the upcoming Rugby World Cup next year and the 2016 Rugby Sevens début at the Olympic Games in Brazil. There are so many forms of rugby you are certain to find one that suits you to watch or take part in, whether you are young, bold and athletic, or as ancient, timid and knackered as your writer (and publisher – Ed): the original game is 15-a-side but Sevens is booming (see the World Series live on internet – it’s a fantastic spectacle). There’s 10s too, and men’s, women’s, boys’ and girls’ sections. Don’t want to thump people? Try touch – it’s an internationally recognised sport with rules of its own and can be played by mixed teams. In Thailand, rugby has been popular for a century, especially at universities and in the forces. Today, it is played by an estimated 14,000 locals and expats, often mixing together in multinational teams. So go on – give it a go! Here are some of the clubs and teams you can join.

The Phuket Vagabonds

THE Phuket Vagabonds came into being over a beer with some like-minded people in 1993. Since then they have been the sole representative of rugby in Phuket. “We still aim to excite both on and off the pitch and always field a team regardless of the opposition,” says club spokesman Pat Cotter. “We have had a bit of a renaissance in the last 18 months, with an influx of dedicated players who have taken Vagabond rugby to new heights and are putting the Phuket Vagabonds’ name back firmly on the map.” Phuket Lomas Rugby Youth Development Program was formed in early 2009 with the aim of helping give underprivileged Thai kids a direction in life through sport and education, with teams from U10s through U18s and often playing host to visiting teams as well as competing in tournaments around the region. The Phuket International Rugby 10s is held at the end of May each year.

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Contact: Pat Cotter, email: phuketrugby@gmail.com 089 873 1190 Sponsors: Strategic Sports Asia, Athena Siam, The Global Rugby Coach & Asia Center Foundation (a charity the club raises funds for at the annual Phuket International Rugby 10s every May)

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The Thai Barbarians

THE Thai Barbarians was formed in December 2011 to allow players from clubs and schools disrupted by that year’s catastrophic floods to continue training and compete in overseas tournaments. The team includes invited players from across Thailand and from overseas, and hopes to live up to the Barbarians’ tradition of playing dynamic, running, and entertaining rugby. This year the team received the official blessing of The Barbarians FC in the UK as a licensed user of the brand name. The Thai Barbarians aim to bring together the most talented local players to train together and enter national and regional tournaments in order to encourage closer links between Thai rugby clubs and schools, increase touring opportunities for youth rugby players throughout Thailand, and promote excellence both on and off the pitch for the future of Thai rugby. Contact: Sandy Wilson, :sandywilson999@

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yahoo.com 081 814 4809 Sponsors: The Royal Oak, NCR Rubber, Jeong Won Restaurant

Nak Suu Tigers

THE goal of Nak Suu Tigers is to have a lasting impact on the lives of young people through rugby training and life skill development; building trust, hope and self-esteem to equip them to make better choices for their future. These efforts have transformed into a rugby academy, as well as a holistic program, that caters to underprivileged children and youth. These players have come straight out of some of the most difficult places in Bangkok, and by practising rugby and obtaining life skills development, this unique academy has evolved into more than just a game. It is a place to learn about teamwork, a place to make friends, a place to be believed in, and to dream. For some this program has become a place of refuge, but most of all it’s where they can live, learn and grow together. Nak Suu is an initiative to change lives forever. Contact: Sopo Fakaua, :naksuu@arkintl.org,

☎ 02 745 9755

The Old Bangkok Bangers

THE Old Bangkok Bangers grew out of a need to provide a rugby union based social sports club. It started by focusing on the Veterans over 35s team as well as an over 50s team. Today the club includes the Colts under 35s and the Banger Belles women’s team. The Club has developed a strong grounding and identity through its members and their social, sport and business networks throughout Southeast Asia. An active and well-known club, it has members from seventeen different nationalities and its spirit is summed up perfectly in its motto, ‘Fun, Friendship, Fraternity.’ Contact: James Crossley-Smith, :jcrossleysmith@gmail.com, ☎ 081 850 5785

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What’s On|Outdoor fun Bangkok Lions RFC

BANGKOK Lions RFC has been an integral part of the Bangkok junior rugby community since 2004, providing a platform for Thai and expat children to experience the camaraderie and sportsmanship associated with the global culture of rugby, with many former players going on to play senior rugby. Bangkok Lions holds weekly coaching sessions to provide members with the skills and tactics to play competitive rugby safely and to have fun while doing it. A key part of the game of rugby is competitive games and Bangkok Lions are an integral part of the annual Bangkok International 10’s competition, hosting the junior section of this internationally renowned event. The Lions have their clubhouse at The Royal Oak in Sukhumvit Soi 33/1 where some lively social events are being planned. Contact: Rod Kerr, :bkklions@yahoo.com, ☎ 081 870 3646

Sponsors: ACH Management, Arcadia, Sika, JWS, Lawton Asia, Creative Office Solutions

The Bangkok Japanese RFC

THE Bangkok Japanese RFC was established in 1964, so this is its 50th anniversary year! The club has more than 40 active members who include not only Japanese but also Cameroon, Thai and English players. “We enjoy playing rugby every weekend throughout the year,” says club spokesman Mr Ito. “Also we have Junior (Kids) rugby division, 5 to 12 years old, our boys and girls are enjoying rugby too. Our motto is ‘We enjoy our life through rugby.’”

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Adult: Mr. Ito, email: ito@thaihoyo.co.th 081 865 0228 Junior: Mr. Takeuchi, :takeuchi@aforce.co.th 087 062 8997 Sponsors: Samitivej Hospital, The Royal Oak English Pub, Yamatane Corporation Thailand Office

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LISTED here are just a few of the clubs and teams playing rugby around the Kingdom. There are adult and youth clubs in Pattaya, Surin and Chiang Mai, as well as Thai teams at most universities and a fast-growing number of schools all over the country, not to mention international schools around Bangkok such as Patana, ISB, NIST and the Thai elite establishments, Vajiravudh and Kings College. For more info rugby in Thailand contact the TRU using the details below. email: thaiscrum@gmail.com www.thairugbyunion.com (Chairman: Viroj Nualkhair. President: Jetnakorn Nabhitabhata).

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Southerners Rugby

SOUTHERNERS Rugby is the founding team for the broader Bangkok Southerners Sports Club. The Southerners field not only a rugby team but also cricket, netball and touch rugby teams, providing a broad base for people looking to play sport and socialise in Bangkok. 2014 sees the Southerners celebrating its 20th anniversary, with the club competing yearly in the Thailand Rugby Union competition, as well as in rugby tournaments spanning 7s, 10s and 15s formats in Thailand and across the region. Southerners Rugby is home to an extensive list of nationalities from across the globe while also having a focus on fielding Thai players within its ranks. In recent years Southerners Rugby has expanded to include competing in Vets tournaments and embracing Rugby League. Off the field there is an active social calendar with the Southerners Ball, Rugby Club Dinner plus race days and the famous Khao San Road Tour. Achievements include: September 2014 – Semi-finalists, Thailand Rugby Union Competition; February 2014 – Champions, Bangkok International 10’s Vets Competition. Training is held 7.15pm every Thursday at NIST, Sukhumvit Soi 15. Contact: Darrel Lintott, :rugby@bangkok-southerners.com, ☎ 086 888 5121 Touch Rugby: Linda Belonje, :lindabelonje@gmail.com

Sponsors: Island Tribe Sun Protection, Exotic Golf Holidays, Treedom, South East Asian Capital, No Idea Gastro Pub

BANGKOK’S SPORTS SOCIAL EVENT OF THE YEAR!

THE BANGKOK INTERNATIONAL RUGBY SEVENS

Nov 8-9 Patana Sports Complex, Soi Bearing (Sukhumvit 105)

ONE of Thailand’s most popular sporting occasions will have a new venue and a fresh look when the 2014 Bangkok International Rugby Sevens kicks off on Nov 8. The 20th anniversary edition of this tournament, which draws teams and fans from all over Asia and beyond, will take place at the sports centre of Bangkok Patana international school. This venue has much-improved facilities for both players and spectators, including probably the finest pitches in the whole of Southeast Asia to ensure top-quality competition. Sevens combines speed and athleticism with strength and physicality. Sevens is played in short matches – typically two halves of seven minutes each – enabling a fast-moving tournament format with never a dull moment. Sevens is proving especially popular in regions where rugby is still at a developing stage; the annual Bangkok International Sevens is one of the longest established events in Asia, but the improvements implemented for 2014 are expected to cement its position as one of the most enjoyable and popular Sevens tournaments anywhere in the world. Teams already confirmed from Australia, New Zealand, Kazakhstan, Sri Lanka, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Laos and Cambodia as well as Thailand in three categories (Men’s International, Women’s International, and Men’s Asia Social) playing across three pitches. Play starts at 8am on both days with a youth tournament organised by Bangkok Lions RFC, then the big lads and ladies kick off at 11.30am (Saturday and Sunday). Grandstand, non-stop entertainment, food and drink, evening dancing, bouncy castle, what more could you want? Enter our competition and WIN – Big Chilli has two pairs of VIP tickets for the winners of our easy-to-enter Bangkok International Sevens competition.

HOW TO ENTER One pair VIP tickets for Sunday’s finals day or One pair VIP tickets for Saturday’s pool and knock-out matches or One mouthwatering Stone Grill meal for two (voucher – worth B2,000) at The Royal Oak Pub & Restaurant, Sukhumvit 33/1 or One of seven de-luxe full-size match RUGBY BALLS from New Zealand Rugby Resources.

“RUGBY SEVENS IS EXCITING BECAUSE....” Just complete the sentence in seven words or less. A panel from BigChilli and the tournament organisers will judge the entries and select the winners. Send your entries to: competition@bangkoksevens.com, or Facebook: BANGKOK INTERNATIONAL RUGBY SEVENS. Don’t forget to include your name and contact details!

Editor’s decision is final. No correspondence will be entered into regarding this competition, its rules and prizes or awards. Winners will be notified on or immediately after Nov 3. Closing date Nov 2, 2014. We promise not to use your details for any other purpose.

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What’s On|Soccer

Football Focus

Whatever happened to…what’s-his-name?

Soccer pundit paul Hewitt takeS a look back at Some notable european playerS and managerS wHo Have graced tHe tpl in recent yearS – Some did tHemSelveS proud, otHerS leSS So – and aSkS, “wHere are tHey now?”

Zesh Rehman

BRITISH-Pakistani Rehman was at Muangthong at the same time as Fowler and impressed greatly in the heart of defence. At about the same time that Fowler left, Rehman also departed and made his way to Hong Kong where he signed for Kitchee. His time on the Island was a great success as he helped his side win four pieces of silverware. After two seasons he moved on and is now at Pahang FC of Malaysia.

Rohan Ricketts Robbie Fowler

THE Liverpool legend was signed as a player by Muangthong United in 2011, and his capture was something of a PR coup for MTU. Fowler’s Anfield connections ensured he was instantly popular in Thailand, and the welcome he received at Suvarnabhumi Airport was akin to Beatlemania. But the mania all seemed a little incongruous to us cynical European fans as we knew the 36-year-old Fowler to be roughly ten years past his best. On the pitch, though, he did work hard, but the problems came when he was installed as head coach halfway through the season. He failed to produce consistent form in his team and Muangthong finished in third place a monumental 25 points behind champions Buriram. Just a year earlier Muangthong had been champions. Fowler parted ways with Muangthong in the close season in a far quieter way than he arrived. After his Thai experience, Fowler returned to England and was linked with Blackpool in a playing capacity, but the deal never went through. He has done some coaching with the Liverpool academy and occasionally appears as a pundit on the BBC, but the only football he has played since has been in testimonials and charity matches. So his time in Thailand was at least notable for being the final time he would play and score in competitive football.

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ANOTHER globetrotter, Ricketts has played in Canada, Hungary, Moldova, Germany, Ireland, India, Ecuador and Thailand since leaving England where he found fame with the likes of Tottenham and Wolves. He was originally linked with Thailand in 2012 but a proposed move to Nakhon Ratchasima fell through. In 2014, he was back again and had apparently signed for Army United. That deal also went awry at the last moment and he ended up at PTT Rayong. He left the club in June having been there for half a season. He’s been unattached since then but has been linked with a move back to India.

Billy Mehmet

BORN in London and eligible to play international football for Ireland or Turkey, Billy Mehmet has had a suitably cosmopolitan career. Prior to signing for Bangkok Glass in 2013 he had spent the bulk of his time in Scotland with St Mirren and Dunfermline but also had spells in Turkey and Australia. He signed for BG from Perth Glory in Australia but only made a handful of appearances for the Glass Rabbits before being released in mid-2013. He then moved onto India where he signed for Dempo. Again his stay was a brief one as he moved to Kedah of Malaysia in late 2013. Australia to Thailand to India to Malaysia in a year: evidently Mehmet not a fan of unpacking suitcases.

Berkant Göktan

THE prodigal Göktan was not Muangthong’s best bit of business. It was a gamble taking him on in the first place as he had been released by his previous club, 1860 Munich, after testing positive for cocaine. However, as a teenager he was considered to be an immense talent and played in the Champions League for Bayern Munich aged just seventeen. Muangthong must have been hoping he could roll back the years for them. Unfortunately, he could barely roll out of bed. Signed on a two-year contract in 2010, he didn’t make a single appearance for Muangthong and has since disappeared back into obscurity. He made one appearance for German minnows SV Heimstetten but had his contract terminated – the manner in which he normally departs clubs – in February this year.

Peter Reid, Bryan Robson, Winfried Schäfer

THE FAT bigwigs seem to like a foreign coach. Well, they like appointing them anyway, but the honeymoon usually doesn’t last long as this trio of farang tacticians prove. Peter Reid was appointed in September 2008 and in his first real assignment he got Thailand to the final of the AFF Cup narrowly losing out to Vietnam in the two-legged final. He left in September 2009 as he took an assistant coach job at Stoke City. He then became manager at Plymouth in 2010 at a time when the club was in a lot of financial difficulty and narrowly avoided bankruptcy. He was recently announced as the manager of Mumbai City FC – a new club playing in the new franchise-based Indian Super League and featuring such players as Alessandro Del Piero, Robert Pirès, David Trezeguet and Freddie Ljungberg. The inaugural season starts on October 12. Br yan Robson was appointed a couple of weeks after Reid departed. Despite some promising early results, Thailand endured a truly dreadful 2010 AFF Cup when they failed to even get out of the group stage and needed a last minute goal just to draw with Laos. Robson eventually left in mid-2011. He continues to work for Manchester United as a ‘global ambassador.’ Winfried Schäfer lasted from June 2011 to June 2013. He got Thailand to the final of the AFF Cup in 2012 and they made a reasonable fist of 2014 World Cup qualification, but miserable performances in 2015 Asian Cup qualifying spelt the end for the likeable German. He stayed on in Thailand, however, and had a brief stint as Muangthong United head coach (who hasn’t?) before becoming head coach of the Jamaica National Team. Strip AD_Destination_July14_M4.indd 1

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Social p Last monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best events in pictures

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Social|Last Monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Events

Buffet Bonanza as BourBon st. turns 28

OFFERING two days of all-you-can-eat feasting alongside happy hour drinks, Bourbon St. Restaurant & Oyster Barâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s anniversary parties are always legendary affairs. No surprise, then, that the place was packed to the rafters when it turned 28 last month in tasty and fun-packed fashion with another sumptuous spread of Cajun and creole favourites.

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King’s Cup wows BangKoK

TAKING place for the first time in Bangkok, the 13th annual King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament saw 16 international teams thunder around the pitches of Siam Polo Park – all in the name of elephant conservation. The final, which was presided over by the King of Thailand’s royal representative, Privy Councilor Real Admiral Mom Luang Usni Pramoj, was won by King Power Duty Free, who beat Audemars Piguet in a thrilling ‘sudden death’ play-off. The event was capped with a gala dinner at Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa, where dignitaries, players, media and celebrities enjoyed a night of drinking and dining and fundraising. The night’s auction raised 4.5 million baht for elephant conservation projects, taking the total raised to date by the tournament to an impressive US$900,000 (28.7 million baht).

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JOE AND KONG LIVE AT HARD ROCK CAFE

VETERAN Thai rockers Joe and Kong from former chart-topping band Nuvo took to the stage for a special performance at Hard Rock Cafe Bangkok, where the duo’s fans enjoyed partying late into the night.

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Living in Bangkok

BRINGING together people, organizations and resources that make living in Bangkok more fulfilling for expats and their families, Bumrungrad International Hospital’s Living in Bangkok 2014 event proved to be another big hit with the kingdom’s foreign residents.

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Social|Last Month’s Best Events

Mercedes cool Boys’ cluB

MERCEDES Benz Thailand rolled out its two latest models – the CLS Coupe and CLS Shooting Brake – with a party featuring a mini-fashion show by Tube Gallery, a performance by ETC, and DJs spinning tunes late into the night. The party was held at Parc Paragon, outside Siam Paragon.

Mai Tai celeBraTed

TRADER Vic’s Restaurant at Anantara Bangkok Riverside celebrated the 70th anniversary of its signature drink, Mai Tai, with a fun-filled party where the boozy concoction was served free-flow. Invented by Trader Vic’s restaurant in Oakland, California in 1944, the Mai Tai is based on rum, Curaçao liqueur, and lime juice – and goes down perfectly with Trader Vic’s Pacific Rim cuisine.

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JoinT chaMBers & eMBassy neTworking

DIPLOMATS, executives and luminaries of all nationalities gathered at the Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok’s Grand Ballroom for the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce’s (JFCCT) Joint Chamber & Embassy Networking Night. Bringing together members from 30 Chambers of Commerce, the event was attended by many of the kingdom’s leading businesses.

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Social|Last Month’s Best Events

Khao Yai escape with sansari

SANSARI marked the official launch of its ESCAPE Khao Yai Hotel, the second hotel development under its Sansiri Hotel Collection, by inviting a group of special guests to “disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature” by staying at the property and experiencing its rooms inspired by four distinct themes – Earth, Wood, Forest, and Floral.

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networKinG in stYLe

ANOTHER night of top draw networking was hosted by Movers & Shakers when it brought together executives from some of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best known businesses for a night of conversation and drinks at Le Bar De Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hotel, Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit.

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Social|Last Month’s Best Events

Magical gerMany gala night

THE German-Thai Chamber of Commerce held its GTCC Annual Gala Night 2014 under the theme ‘Magical Germany.’ Transforming the Grand Ballroom of the Shangri-la Hotel into an imitation of Bavaria’s Neuschwanstein Castle, the event saw over 400 distinguished guests enjoy a night of gourmet food, fine wines, a charming ballet performance, and an extravagant fashion show.

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grand opening for Sixpence FREE-flow drinks, pass-around snacks, and live entertainment ensured all guests had a great time when the new Sixpence British Pub at Pickadaily community mall, On Nut 39, celebrated its grand opening last month.

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All in JApAnese tAste

TOP quality ramen was the order of the day when popular Japanese restaurant chain Ippudo celebrated its grand opening at Central Embassy. Following the same concept as the very first Ippudo branch in Fukuoka, Bangkokâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iteration of the restaurant offers delicious Japanese recipes prepared using the finest ingredients. The opening was presided over by Ippudo founder Shigemi Kawahara, best known as the Ramen King. Read our review of Ippudo on page 50.

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England too strong for scots

SCOTLAND were thrashed a whopping 7-1 by England in this year’s edition of the annual Alex Forbes Memorial Trophy, played in silky fashion once again on the pristine pitches of Bangkok Patana School. Some spectators blamed Scotland’s (then) looming vote for independence for the drop in form - “their minds are anywhere but on the ball,” they shrieked. But that would detract from the sizzling form of Danny Poole’s boys in white, who led Struan Robertson’s brave hearts on a merry dance to secure a well-deserved win. Both teams capped the day with drinks, eats, and lots of hilarious banter at The Clubhouse on Sukhumvit 23.

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Bavarian charm at Beervault

FOUR Points By Sheraton Bangkok Sukhumvit 15’s BeerVault got into the spirit of Munich’s world-famous beer festival – a whole month early – by hosting a ‘Pre-Oktoberfest’ party. With tons of tasty food and beer on offer, a great time was had by all.

Game on at Bestminton square

BESTMINTON Square, a new sport and lifestyle complex bringing together four partners – Bestminton Court, Kriyoga, The BOXX by Health Me!, and The BOXX Muay Thai by Health Me! – marked its grand opening with an open house event attended by many Thai celebrities and fitness fanatics. Visitors were taken on a tour of the complex, which, among its many facilities, includes an Olympic-standard badminton complex featuring 16 courts, a yoga studio, fully equipped fitness center, and boxing studio.

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Social|Around town

FREiTAG DAy AT PROnTO

DAniEL Freitag was met by a large crowd of adoring fans when he arrived in Bangkok to launch his new range of fashionable-yet-sturdy bags at Pronto Denim Store, Central Embassy.

SWiSS SEASOnAL FAShiOn

KyOChOn ChiCKEn OPEnS AT MBK KOREAn restaurant brand Kyochon Chicken celebrated the grand opening of its fourth branch in Thailand, located at the MBK centre in Bangkok, with a special ceremony presided over by Kyochon F&B’s chairman, Won Kang Kwon, and Evolution Capital’s CEO, Sanjay Singh. Kyochon Company Limited, based in Bangkok, was established in October 2013 and is a joint venture between Kyochon F&B and SET-listed Evolution Capital PCL.

LUXURy Swiss fashion brand Bally launched its ‘Bally Autumn Winter 2014 Collection’ with a celeb-studded fashion show at the Bally Flagship Store, 1st Floor, Gaysorn Plaza. Among the many ViPs attending the event were nicole and Camilla Kittiwat, Tum Adul Charoenrasameekiat, Charn Srivikorn, and Korakot Srivikorn.

ART OF GOLF in BAnGKOK STOCKED with top of the range golf clubs and accessories, including exclusive items from brands such as Oakley, Scotty Cameron, Epon and Miura, the new Art of Golf sports shop at Thaniya Plaza Building (Silom Road) held its grand opening last month to the delight of golf lovers of all nationalities.

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Social|Around Last Month’s town Best Events

ThAiLAnD ELiTE CELEBRATES 11Th AnniVERSARy ThAiLAnD Elite, the world’s first country membership programme offering benefits for leisure, business, and more, celebrated its 11th anniversary with a cocktail reception at its head office on Sathorn Road. Presiding over the party, and explaining more about Thailand Elite’s privileges, was the company’s president, Mr Apisit Chuenchompo.

EGGS in ThE SPOTLiGhT

CP promoted the health benefits of eating one egg a day by hosting an ‘i Love Egg’ panel discussion with Thai cyclist Varnvarn Aroonnapa and actor navin Tar at Victory Point shopping mall, Bangkok. Examining the finer points of scrambled, fried, poached, and boiled eggs, the panel came to the mouth-watering conclusion that this easy-to-find ingredient should be consumed at least once a day.

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Diplomats p Meet the people uniting nations

His Abdelilah El Housni The Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco talks about his work in Thailand Page 114

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Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco

Diplomats

The Happy Kingdom with a key role in Africa By Maxmilian Wechsler

It is unfortunate that of the 50-plus countries on the African continent, only five have established embassies in Thailand. The Kingdom of Morocco is one of these, having opened its embassy in 1994 (Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya and Egypt are the other four, while Ghana has a consulate) and therefore The BigChilli is pleased to bring readers this extensive interview with Abdelilah El Housni, Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco to the Kingdom of Thailand. Mr El Housni is sophisticated, energetic and highly motivated to improve bilateral relations between his country and Thailand. This task is made easier by the fact that relations are already excellent, inspired by both their Kings and Royal Families and also because many people in Thailand and the world over are intrigued and even fascinated by the exotic North African nation. With its mountains, desert, snow and Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines, Morocco is rich in natural beauty and history, as can be seen at the reception celebrating the enthronement of His Majesty King Mohammed VI held every July 30th. The efforts of Mr El Housni and his staff to make the reception a success this year certainly paid off. As always, it was a splendid showcase of Moroccan culture, hospitality and food. The national costumes worn by many participants, especially the women, were stunning. After a warm welcome at the embassy on the 12th floor of Sathorn City Tower, Imane Dryef, the embassy counsellor who arranged the interview, took me to a beautifully appointed meeting room that left no doubt I had entered Moroccan territory. The room’s furnishings were all imported, including two beautiful large, dark red sofas, a big wooden table and Moroccan vase. Ms Dryef said the décor is typical of many Moroccan homes. There are framed photos of Moroccan landscapes and landmarks on the walls, as well as a large portrait of HM King Mohammed VI. The ambassador was waiting for me with drinks and a plate full of Moroccan cookies, sweets and mint tea a prime example of the legendary Moroccan hospitality. First he gave some personal background. “I was born in 1958 to a working class family in the capital of Rabat. I have been married for 24 years. My wife Akiko was born in Japan. We have two sons, Ryan, 22 years old, and Kenzo, who is seven. We live not too far from the embassy, which is quite convenient,” said Mr El Housni. The ambassador speaks Arabic, English and French well and can get by in Japanese and Spanish. He was educated in Rabat and the United States, where he received a master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Maine.

“I arrived in Thailand for the first time on April 7, 2013 and gave copies of my credentials to the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs soon after. I presented my credentials to His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn in December. I am also ambassador to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Republic of Myanmar. I have presented my credentials in these countries as well. We are enjoying very friendly relations with these countries animating by a strong will and determination to strengthen these relations at all levels.” Mr El Housni explained that his official title is Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco, instead of Ambassador of Morocco, because according to the country’s constitution it is the King who accredits all ambassadors. “This is my first assignment as ambassador and second post abroad after serving as Deputy Chief of Mission at the Moroccan embassy in Tokyo from 1998 to 2004.The term for ambassadors is usually four years. The retirement age for government officers in my country is 60.” Mr El Housni’s last position before coming to Bangkok was as Director-General of Human Resources, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation in Rabat. Since joining the ministry in 1981, he has held a number of positions in Rabat including Chief of Managing Human Resources Services, Counsellor, Minister Counsellor, Chief of Diplomas Recognition and Exams Division, Chief of Regulation and Litigation Services and Chief of Regulation and Planning Division. “As for my typical working day and duties,” the ambassador continued, “the first thing after I arrive every morning at my office is to meet with four other Moroccan diplomats, all each in charge of one of the countries I am accredited to. Each of my staff is in charge of one country, but we are flexible in the respect that if one person is on holiday, for example, another can take over the job. Our diplomats are multi-skilled, polyvalent and interchangeable. We share information and work in concert. We get together to discuss and exchange views on political, economic and cultural events, how far we are in implementing our action plan, what we have to do in the coming days, what are our assignments, if there are any functions we should attend and so on. “However, my view is that someone coming from a country more than 10,000 kilometers away shouldn’t be staying in his office all the time. If he is assigned to be an ambassador and doesn’t get out of the office and try to knock at and open doors it would be better to just stay in his own country. I feel that the duty of a diplomat is to get out and promote his country and strengthen political, economic and other relations.

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Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco

Moroccan desert

“Any diplomat, even the ambassador, is entrusted with the great challenge and responsibility to establish and build a solid bridge of strong diversified cooperation aiming at hoisting up these relations to a level that can meet people’s expectations. “We try to visit the other three countries once a month unless there’s some urgent reason to go there immediately. The embassy’s approach to Thailand also applies to Lao PDR, Cambodia and Myanmar. The diplomat who is in charge of a respective country may join me or travel there alone,” Mr El Housni said. He added that part of being a successful diplomat is having the skills to manage the people, to federate them around sounds projects that add value; another is negotiation skills. But Mr El Housni’s main focus is always on representing his country to build good bilateral relations and advance the interests of his country. This includes, among others, promoting Morocco as a tourism destination and push for a balanced trade exchanges. He is the spokesperson for his own government and its policy in the host country. He must also attend to the Moroccan people here and protect them. “These are some of the main objectives of any ambassador in Bangkok. I also feel it’s important to work with my ‘accomplice,’ the ambassador of the host country accredited in my country. We all have the same objective, striving together to maintain and improve relations between our respective countries. “The work of a diplomat is not only to stay in the embassy compound and send out reports. For example, you must attend cultural events and try to promote cultural relations. The one in charge of economic matters and trade must go out to meet

Bodyboarding, surfing, windsurfing, funboard: all sports are practiced in heavenly spots along Morocco’s southern coast

Snow in the city of Ifrane

businesses and officials and so on. Each one of my diplomats is, in fact, an ambassador. In my view even Moroccan people living here are representing their country. Therefore, they should preserve its reputation and work hard to promote its good image.” Mr El Housni often travels outside Bangkok because he wants to know more about Thai society as a whole. “You can’t just sit in the capital, you have to travel all around to meet the people and understand the culture. The key success for any ambassador is to travel around the country, because the diversity of experience you gain leads to more information and understanding and helps the ambassador to do his job better.”

Democratic traditions

Traditional exhibition of horsemanship

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Mr El Housni described Morocco as a “very open, constitutional democratic parliamentary and social country. Our constitution is innovative as well. We are a free country in many respects. Gender equality is embodied in our constitution, which gives women the same rights as men. Many reforms have been implemented since the enthronement of His Majesty King Mohammad VI in 1999. “Morocco is also a very peaceful and tolerant country, where people can live side-by-side in harmony. This applies to people of all faiths. The people are united under the King as head of state, symbol of the unity of the nation and he is commander of the faithful.

Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca

“Since we formally gained independence from the French on March 2, 1956, we have always had a multi-party system. The one-party system is forbidden by the constitution.”

Bilateral relations

“The Kingdoms of Morocco and Thailand established diplomatic relations on October 4, 1985. Next year we will celebrate the 30th anniversary. We opened our embassy in Bangkok in 1994 and I believe that Thailand opened its embassy in Rabat the same year. We have five Moroccan diplomats stationed at the embassy including myself, and eight local staff. “The association between our two countries is at the highest level, especially between the monarchies. Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Salma, the consort of HM King Mohammed VI, attended in June 2006 the 60th anniversary celebrations of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s accession to the Throne. It was her second visit to Thailand. “We are working to translate all the good relations into concrete action and programs to promote bilateral growth in the spheres of economics and trade. As I am always saying, this is especially needed in the sphere of trade. “Morocco has a lot of potential for trade. We have 75% of the word’s reserves of phosphate, which is used for everything from fertilizers to rechargeable batteries. At the same time we have long coastlines on the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, which among other things gives a great advantage in terms of fisheries. There are many resources that we can promote to Thailand, including agriculture and industry. We have a number of free trade agreements, for example, with the European Union besides the advanced status, as well as the United States and Turkey. We are a member of the Arab Free Trade Zone (GAFTA) and the Morocco-Arab Countries Trade Agreement. Morocco is presently in the process of launching trade negotiations with Canada,” Mr El Housni said. “I strongly believe that because of our geographical

location, and the key role of Morocco in Africa, the Kingdom of Morocco can be a gateway for Thailand to Africa. Likewise, Thailand can be a gateway for Morocco to ASEAN. “Some products Morocco exports to Thailand are fish, including the sardines you can find in many Bangkok supermarkets, fertilizer and, lately, Argan Oil. Thailand exports to Morocco mainly machinery, textiles, shoes and rubber,” explained Mr El Housni, adding that almost 9,000 Moroccans visited Thailand in 2013 and 1,000 Thai nationals travelled to Morocco. Visas are required on both sides. But we are working tirelessly to attract more Thais tourists to Morocco. “There are around 300 Moroccans living in Thailand who are registered with our embassy. They are mostly involved in tourism and hotels or have their own business. They are well integrated in Thai society. “There are many Thai nationals living in Morocco, with some working in the numerous Thai restaurants. The Moroccan government also gives about 15 scholarships to Thai students every year.”

Personal notes

When asked what he likes and doesn’t like in Thailand, Mr El Housni replied: “I like the people because they are nice and simple. I like the Thai culture and the food, especially tom yum kung (hot and sour prawn soup). What I don’t like are the traffic jams.” In order to be on time for an appointment or event the ambassador often gets out of his limousine and travels by motorcycle taxi or BTS (Skytrain). This fits in with his philosophy that an ambassador, besides assuming different tasks and being a negotiator, must also be a simple person. “You should know the people, how they live, work and go about their daily lives,” Mr El Housni said. Asked whether the beaches are better in Thailand or Morocco, Mr El Housni answered diplomatically: “They are all beautiful.” Ms Dryef then jumped in, saying proudly: “One of our beaches was nominated as one of the most beautiful in the world. We have over 10 million tourists visiting Morocco every year.”

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Diplomats

Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco Kanun player A Moroccan bride

A Kasbah, or fortress

In his free time Ambassador El Housni enjoys reading, and also swimming, playing golf and spending time with his family. He also collects antique radios and gramophones that are in working condition. “I have 32 pieces in my collection in Morocco, the oldest made in 1932. I have seen one gramophone here but it wasn’t original or antique. They made it look antique, but you have to look underneath to see the model number and then check the year it was made.”

Final word

“We are the only country in the Maghreb area of Northwest Africa (Morocco, Libya, Algeria, Tunisia and Mauritania) that has an embassy here. This shows how keen Morocco is to have strong relations between our two monarchies and nations. What about the Arab Spring? “Unlike other countries in our region, Morocco was not thrown into turmoil by the ‘Arab Spring.’ We had a smooth transition after our late King Hassan II passed away 15 years ago. Since then, after the enthronement of HM King Mohammed VI in July 1999, because of hard work and many reforms we weren’t hit by the Arab Spring. Morocco was an exception. Nothing happened there.” The ambassador then made an interesting analogy: “Every year many people get a flu shot. There is no way of knowing who will catch the flu, but the shot gives you some protection. In the same way, the reforms undertaken by HM the King of Morocco, in the areas of gender equality, human development, setting the unprecedented Equity and Reconciliation Commission, new concept of authority, the establishment of the ombudsman, family law, new constitution and election reforms for example, all impacted the Moroccan society and gave it protection against social upheaval. While the Arab Spring was spreading in neighboring countries, Morocco was protected and sheltered from it.” Mr El Housni said he is very happy with his team at the embassy. “We are working in a good environment in a high spirit, without any restrictive protocols with one goal to serve our country and our people. We try to communicate at all times. Anyone

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Traditional cuisine

can enter my office at any time. Our slogan for this embassy is: ‘The impossible we can do today. Miracles take a little time.’ “As I have said, the excellent relations between the kingdoms of Thailand and Morocco can be translated into concrete programs that can benefit both peoples. Sometimes distance really doesn’t mean so much. We aren’t really too far from each other. We have to work with the Thai people to promote our special relationship. This is my mission. At the same time, we have to defend the interests of Morocco. We are here for the country and our King. Like Thailand, we have a great King and a beautiful country.”

MOROCCO IN BRIEF The Kingdom of Morocco is situated on the northwest tip of Africa, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on another. Morocco borders Algeria and Mauritania, and Spain and Europe lie just across the Gibraltar Strait only 14 kilometers away. Morocco operates on Greenwich Mean Time and covers an area of 710,850 square kilometers, with 3,600 km of coastline. The population of Morocco is about 33 million. Rabat (“Fortiﬁed Place” in Arabic) is the capital city with around 1.8 million inhabitants. The most populous city is Casablanca, with approximately four million. Other large cities are Fes, Marrakech, Laayoune, Tangier and Oujda. The ofﬁcial language is Arabic and Tamazight (berber language) but French, Spanish and English are also widely spoken. Morocco is one of the oldest monarchies in the world, founded in the 8th century by the Idrissides. It is a constitutional monarchy and a multi-party democracy. His Majesty King Mohamed VI has been Head of State since July 30, 1999. The King is undertaking a vast economic and social development program to meet the needs of the new generation by promoting education, good governance, gender equality, employment and poverty reduction.

HUA HIN

Cha Am • Pranburi • And beyond...

Away Hua Hin - Pranburi Boutique Resort is offering 70 percent off its luxury beachside villas. Page 120.

News & deals

Hua Hin’s hottest promotions and deals await inside Page 120

Dining out

Putahracsa Hua Hin’s sumptuous Sunday brunch is back Page 120

Social

Hua Hin’s best events captured on camera for your viewing pleasure Page 124 TheBigChilli 119

Hu aH i n

N ews and Deals

Spa and stay at Villa Maroc NO weekend escape to Hua Hin is complete without a thorough pampering. Visit the Villa Maroc Resort & Spa Pranburi and, all this month, you’ll find a ‘Secret of Spa Indulgence Package’ offering rates starting at B5,800 per night for two, inclusive of breakfast, an original ‘Energizing Hamman’ spa treatment, and a Moroccan-style afternoon tea service. ☎ 032 630 771 :villamarocresort.com

Oceanside brunch returns PUTAHRACSA Hua Hin has just re-launched its sumptuous Sunday brunch with more gourmet fare, including honey glazed ham, sushi, oysters and crab on ice, prime BBQ meat, Thai-style BBQ and more. B1,300 per person; half price for kids aged 6-10. Available every Sunday from noon until 3pm. ☎ 032 531 470 :oceansidebeachclub.com

Luxury for less DREAM of living in a villa just few steps from the beach? Bring that fantasy to life – albeit in vacation form – by staying at Away Hua Hin - Pranburi Boutique Resort. Until March 2015, the resort is offering a ‘Longstay’ deal featuring 70 percent discount on bookings of seven nights or more. Rates range from B2,947++ per night for a One Bedroom Garden Villa to B8,178++ for a Two Bedroom Thai House, inclusive of daily breakfast. ☎ 032 825 080 :awayresorts.com/away-resorts-hua-hin

Golf tournaments galore A classic taste of Britain CHICKEN Tikka masala may top most favourite dish polls in Britain, but overseas, and especially in Thailand, Brits always pine for a decent serving of classic fish and chips. While ubiquitous in the UK, they’re hard to come by here, so it’s great news, then, that Dune Bar and Restaurant is cooking this dish all this month at the special price of B350++ per portion. ☎ 032 515 051-3 :dunehuahin.com

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THREE special events await golfers at Banyan Golf Club Hua Hin this month. Teeing off the fun, on Oct 19, is the Golf Citizen Thailand Pairs Series 2014 Qualifier event. Win this and you’ll receive a VIP trip to Dubai to compete in the Omega Dubai Desert Classic 2015 (for more info, visit golfcitizen.com). Then, on Oct 29, the Power Tee Competition will be held (B2,100 inclusive of caddy and snacks after the match), before then month ends in style, on Oct 31, with the Annual Rotary Charity Golf Day. ☎ 032 616 200 :banyanthailand.com

Accommodation

Hua Hin Where to sleep The Cape Nidhra Hotel, Hua Hin ■ 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.

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 awardwinning 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

97/2 Petchkasem Road, Hua Hin Tel: 032 516 600

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas 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. 1 Damnernkasem Road, Hua Hin. Tel: 032 512 021-38

Evason Hua Hin and Six Senses Spa ■ This resort-spa is situated at the heart of 20 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and faces the Gulf of Thailand. Pool villas and guest rooms are connected by a series of wooden walkways that meander between lush greenery. This is a retreat for those seeking time to relax and recharge. In The Restaurant guests can sip exotic cocktails, ice-cold beer or boutique wines while watching chefs cook and construct creative appetizers. The award-winning Earth Spa is one of the most visually striking in Thailand. 9/22 Moo 5 Paknampran Beach, Pranburi. Tel: 032 632 111 122

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Villa Maroc Resort Pranburi ■ Inspired by Morocco’s distinctive architecture, Villa Maroc combines Thai beachside living and service with some of the most luxurious furnishings from the North African Kingdom, making it a unique addition to Southeast Asia’s accommodation scene. The resort is located in Pranburi approximately 30 kilometers south of Hua Hin town. You can tuck into European, Middle Eastern and Thai cuisine at Casablanca, enjoy cocktails and shisha pipes at the Sisha Bar, relax in bliss at Sherazade Hammam & Spa, and much more. 165/3 Moo 3 Paknampran, Pranburi, Tel: 032 630 771 email: rsvn@villamarocresort.com

Baan Bayan

■ 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. 119 Petchkasem Road. Tel: 032 533 544

Hu aH i n

S ocial

Leyda Wine launched at Hagi CENTARA Grand Beach Resort and Villas Hua Hin recently organized the official launching of Leyda Wine in Thailand. The event showcased premium wines from Viña Leyda, one of Chile’s most exciting producers, alongside Japanese canapés handcrafted by Executive Chef Gael Lardiere. The night was hosted by Jan Weisheit, Director of Food & Beverage, and special guest Luis Carlos Andrade , Export Manager Asia & Oceania of VSPT Wine Group, was on hand to explain more about the wine.

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Stylish opening for DECA HILTON Hua Hin Resort & Spa officially opened its new trendy chill-out lounge, DECA, with a grand opening party which also marked the launch of the hotel’s new-look White Lotus Sky Bar. The party was hosted by the hotel’s general manager, Mr Rick Erdos, and presided over by Mr Montri Chupu, Deputy Mayor of Hua Hin; Pol Col Damrongsak Thong-ngarmtrakul, the Superintendent of Hua Hin police station; Pol Col Witas Borrirak, Police Chief of Cha-am; and Mr Suvit Rianrungruang, Chairman of Petchburi/Prachuap Golf Courses Association.

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D ea ls and Promotion s Le Coral Hideaway Beyond Phuket: Until Nov 15, a stay-one-night-and-get-one-night-free deal is offered on the hotel’s Horizon Suites. B5,700 including breakfast. ☎ 076 679 888 :coralhideaway.com

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family r o s d n Frie land? i a h T g visitin now about k Let them e deals thes

Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside: Want to experience Loy Krathong in

style? On Nov 6-7, the hotel’s ‘Loy Krathong Package’ offers rates at B6,600 for two in a Deluxe room, inclusive of buffet breakfast and Gala Dinner buffet. Pay before Oct 25 for 25% discount. ☎ 02 688 1000 :ramadaplazamenamriverside.com

Pullman Bangkok King Power: Available for booking until Oct

19 (and valid for stays until Dec 14), a ‘Stay 3 Pay 2’ deal offers rates starting at B3,861 per night for a Superior room. A minimum of three consecutive nights stay is required. Online booking only. ☎ 02 680 9999 :accorhotels.com

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OZO Chaweng Samui:

Until June 2015, the ‘OZO Samui Long Stay Package’ offers 14-nights’ accommodation starting at B40,525++, inclusive of daily breakfast, one complimentary set dinner, round-trip airport transfers and more. ☎ 077 915 200 :ozohotels.com/chaweng-samui

the hotel’s ‘1 Stay 1 Wish Promotion’ offers two-nights in a Superior room for B3,999. Price includes daily breakfast for two and the granting of one ‘wish’ (among the options: Thai massage for two, a Thai set meal for two, round trip airport transfer, and a half-day island tour). ☎ 076 303 457 :eastinyamaphuket.com

X2 Kui Buri: Until Dec 20, a ‘Super Saver Promotion’ offers 60% off the hotel’s usual rates. Expect to pay B4,248++ for a Deluxe Garden Villa and B16,992++ for a Royal Villa, inclusive of daily Champagne breakfast and complimentary snacks and drinks at Sip&Nibble. ☎ 032 601 412 :X2LOBBY.com

Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel Bangkok: Perfect for couples, a

‘Love in the Heart of Bangkok’ package offers a two-night stay in a Deluxe One-Bedroom Suites or Metro Suites for B10,900++. Package highlights include breakfast for two, one three-course candlelit dinner with a bottle of wine, one 60-minute aromatherapy massage for two, and late check-out. Deal ends Oct 31. ☎ 02 625 1234 :bit.ly/1qOAiYO

Soﬁtel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort: Until Oct 31, book the

hotel’s ‘Stay Longer & Save More 30%’ deal offers 30% discount on bookings of five, six or seven consecutive nights. Rates start at B3,444++ per night for a Superior room. ☎ 075 627 800 :bit.ly/1BwzLRM

COAST CO PATTAYA

Kok Chang • Wong Amat • Jomtien • Bang Saray • Sattahip • Rayong Record numbers of visitors are expected at this year’s Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show. Page 128.

News & Deals

The Eastern Seaboard’s hottest dining and hotel promotions Page 128

Live music

The Desford Colliery Brass Band brings its live show to Pattaya Page 128

Golf

Pattaya Amateur Golf Week all set for Oct 18 tee off Page 130 TheBigChilli 127

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N ews and Deals

Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show

Taxi app hits the spot with locals GRAB Taxi is transforming the industry with smartphone technology that makes booking taxis in Pattaya safe, easy and reliable. Simply download the app for free from google PlayStore. The app immediately displays how many drivers are nearby and the GPS automatically picks up your location. All you need to do is type in where you want to go. Text prediction allows easy selection for major destinations like shopping centres, transport hubs and local restaurants. Choose a ‘taxi’ or the new ‘GrabCar’ option. The app displays how far away your destination and a fare estimate. Simply use your Gmail account to register.

Buffalo Racing THAT’S right. Buffalo racing. Every year in Chonburi (100km east of Bangkok, near Pattaya) locals gather to witness these beasts charging down a 100 meter strip in front of the town’s municipal offices. While the buffalo are slower than horses, they run with surprising speed, and the rider of the fastest always goes home with pride and a prize. Adding to the fun are Thai folk concerts, a buffalo beauty pageant, and a beauty competition for women where the winner is declared ‘Miss Buffalo’ – quite an honour, apparently. Regular buses to Chonburi from Bangkok cost around B40 (two hour trip). Races will be held Oct 7. :tourismthailand.org

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RECORD numbers of visitors are expected at the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show this year as the organisers, Ocean Property, have confirmed a new expanded four-day format, increased exhibition space and an exciting programme of activities including the International Fishing Boat Competition and Boat & Yacht Thailand 2014 Conference. Held Nov 27-30 at Ocean Marina in Jomtien, the show will feature free yacht cruises, kayak and paddle boat experiences, an open-air drinks and food festival with live band, jetpack flying board and radio control power boat demonstrations, games and much more. :oceanmarinayachtclub.com

The Desford Colliery Brass Band live Gourmet Food & Art Fair at Siam Bayshore HERE’S a great opportunity to support local organic produce from the Eastern Seaboard. On Sun Oct 12, enjoy a leisurely Sunday discussing viticulture or meat curing with over 20 market vendors who will showcase specialty wines, cheeses and deli meats. Local artists will inspire the culture hound with handmade quality designs such as leather bags, on trend fashion pieces and unique jewellery. Entry is Free. Hosted on the grounds of Regents International School Pattaya. :regents.ac.th

FOUNDED in 1898 in the small mining town of Coalville in the heart of the Midlands UK, The Desford Colliery Brass Band has survived the traumas of two World wars, the closure of mines and the decimation of the UK coal industry. This has meant a dramatic change in personnel away from purely mineworkers, but against all odds and adversities the band has moved on and become one of the best known British Brass Bands. Catch them performing on Oct 26 at the Siam Bayshore Hotel. Show starts 5pm. :pattayaclassicalmusic.com

Culinary showcase at Hilton Pattaya HILTON Pattaya recently hosted its first ‘Culinary Cup’ which gave the hotel’s young chefs the chance to showcase their talents in front of a panel of judges. The event was hosted as a prelude to the upcoming 2014/2015 F&B Masters, which is designed to develop and celebrate the food and beverage talents within the region.

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Bart’s Bash fun at Varuna THE Royal Varuna Yacht Club and Ocean Marina Yacht Club members came out in force on Sun Sept 21 to support the Bart’s Bash race, a Guinness World Record attempt for the largest sailing event hosted by over 750 yacht club worldwide on the same day. Though this was a record breaking day, most came to support of the Andrew Simpson Foundation and local Thai children’s charities with some sailors brushing off the cobwebs from their racing machines after being dormant for a period of time. :varuna.org

K1 World Max Finals THE world-renowned K-1 mixed martial arts series will make its Thailand debut next month in hard-hitting fashion with a series finale bout featuring two of the best 70kg MAX fighters in the world – Thailand’s Buakaw Banchamek and Germany’s Enriko Kehl. Buakaw, who’s been fighting in the tournament for 10 years, has already won two K-1 titles. Can he notch a third on home soil? Head to Indoor Athletics Stadium on Sat Oct 11 to find out. The event will also feature the debut of international MMA superstars Paul “Semtex” Daley and Andre “Dida” Amade. Tickets range B1,000-B10,000 :thaiticketmajor.com

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Pattaya Property Showcase THE second annual Pattaya Property Show will be held at the Dusit Thani Pattaya on Oct 3-5. Over 55 property developers are expected to showcase their portfolios at the event, giving buyers and investors a great opportunity to learn about the region’s hottest properties, compare locations and negotiate prices. Developers and realtors taking part include Raimon Land, Rightmove Pattaya, Kingdom Property, Del Mare, Veranda Resort and Spa, Matrix Developments, Heights Holdings, The Ville, Universal Group, Global Top Group, Ocean Residential, Sea Saran, Siam Realty Group, Norwegian Group, Pattaya Posh, Mosaic and many more. Open from 10am-6pm. Free entry. :pattayapropertyshow.com

Pattaya Amateur Golf Week

Rock On The Lake Music Festival BRINGING together the kingdom’s most popular rock bands past and present, Singha Corporation’s one-day festival at Silverlake Vineyard is a must visit for anyone looking to get up to speed with the nation’s rock music history. Black Head, Nuvo, Moderndog, Maew Jirasak, Palmy, Hugo, Slot Machine, Tattoo Colour, 25 Hours, and Asanee Wasan are just some of the bands who will perform. Sat Nov 22. Doors open 3pm. Tickets are B1,500 and available from Thaiticketmajor.com. :rockonthelake.com

THE Golfasian Amateur Series is Asia’s first and only amateur golf tournament series that provides men and women of all ages, with any handicap, the opportunity to compete on a level field. The Pattaya leg of the series – The Siam Country Club Amateur Golf Week, held Oct 18-25 – therefore, is perfect for any golfer hoping to experience the excitement, camaraderie and friendly competition of tournament golf. Package deals, which include accommodation, start at B46,200. :golfasian.com

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Holiday Inn opens Executive Tower HOLIDAY Inn Pattayaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Executive Tower was officially opened with a party at its trendy creative meeting space, Workshop, where over 200 guests enjoyed a variety of tasty snacks and a series of live performances.

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