02-08-2013

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RIDE ON! OOPS! DO DANGERS POSE A THREAT TO THAILAND TOURISM? > PAGE 6

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A large mobile crane tipped over and crashed onto a block of shops in Patong on Wednesday afternoon FULL STORY ON PAGE 2

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The damage was initially estimated as being around B1 million. Photo: Golf Thairat

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Paradise lost

Trash and greed still a threat to the delights of Koh Racha; resort slammed for not joining clean-up drive > 5

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Ship sinks off Krabi A THAI COASTER, THE MV Unity, sank on Wednesday afternoon (July 31) around 2:30 in heavy seas near Koh Pu, off the coast of Krabi.

The captain, Taweep Choonoon and all 10 crew members were rescued by a flotilla of boats led by Krabi Marine Police launch 523. None of the sailors was hurt.

Pol Lt Col Chaiyasit Kancharoen, inspector of Krabi Marine Police, told The Phuket News on Wednesday evening, “We can’t begin salvaging the Unity yet. It is

too dark. We will start work on that tomorrow morning.”

The Unity, he added, was employed to carry goods between the mainland and Koh Phi Phi. This is the second cargo ship to get into difficulties in heavy weather in the waters around Phuket. On July 4, the Bangladeshi cargo ship MV Hope was abandoned by its crew south of Phuket after it listed severely. Nine crew were rescued and two were found dead. The remaining six are still missing.

Emergency landing AN ORIENT THAI AIRcraft heading to Phuket made an emergency landing at Surat Thani Airport on Wednesday evening (July 31) after experiencing engine failure, and then suffered a flat tyre, leaving it immobilised on the runway, forcing another arriving flight to return to Bangkok.

The Boeing 737 was flying from Shenzhen in China on a charter flight with around 140 Chinese passengers.

After landing, the plane made a U-turn and its rear left wheel slipped off the edge of the runway, causing the flat tyre. The Phuket News/ Bangkok Post

Phuket helps with oil spill FIVE OFFICIALS FROM Phuket were sent to Koh Samet, Rayong, on Wednesday (July 31) to help out with the oil spill currently affecting the water around the area.

The officials, from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, were due to start work on Thursday.

Team leader Nipon Pongsuwan told The Phuket News

that his team would arrive at Baan Pae on mainland Rayong, and would help check coral, water and seagrass.

Around 50,000 litres of oil gushed into the sea on Saturday, about 20 kilometres off the Rayong coast, when a PTT Global Chemical pipeline sprang a leak. Some environmentalists fear the leak may have been much bigger.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

Road rage terror Claire Connell editor1@classactmedia.co.th

A

n English expatriate has described the moment a minivan driver pulled a gun out of his jacket pocket, terrifying his girlfriend in the passenger seat and making him flee in his vehicle.

Barry, from England, who would not give his full name, who has lived in Phuket for seven and a half years, spoke to The Phuket News about the July 21 incident, which started near Thai Hua School, in Phuket Town, around 10pm.

Barry said he was waiting at the traffic lights on Mae Luan Rd, near the school, when a white minivan stopped very close behind him.

“He was so close behind I couldn’t see the headlights, he was millimetres behind.”

The traffic lights went green and both Barry and the minivan driver drove up to the traffic lights outside Surakul Stadium, which were red.

The minivan driver was on Barry’s left, and Barry looked across and mouthed, “You were too close,” to the driver, and indicated how close with his thumb and forefinger.

This triggered a reaction from the driver, who reached into his jacket. Barry saw the butt of a handgun as the man pulled his hand back out of his jacket.

Barry stepped on the gas, and ran the red light, frantic to get away: “I had no choice. If we’d sat there he would have shot us. I saw that butt coming out and I was gone. I was in a vulnerable position – he was inches away. Instinct took over.”

Barry’s girlfriend was in the passenger seat and was “terrified”, he said.

Barry turned left at the Central Festival intersection, heading toward Chalong, trying to get away from the man. He drove until he nearly reached the intersection near the Naka Weekend Market.

The minivan drove up along

Barry’s right side, but Barry was able to edge the driver over the median line. Seeing oncoming traffic heading towards him, the minivan driver had no choice but to move ahead of Barry. He then sped off.

While Barry acknowledges his gesture at the Surakul Stadium intersection might have been the trigger for the road rage incident, he said he would do the same thing again.

“I felt he was driving too close and it was very dangerous.”

Barry hasn’t gone to the police as he didn’t get the licence plate number of the vehicle, and the white minivan had no identifying characteristics. However he did say he thinks he could easily identify the driver if he came across him again.

While the incident felt like it took a long time, Barry says the whole thing was over in a few minutes.

“I’ve been here seven and a half years and I’ve never had a situation like this before.

Carrying a gun in a car like that is clearly illegal.”

Barry said his girlfriend was “petrified” because she was right next to the driver and his gun.

“She was scared and I was acting on adrenalin. The fact that he had a gun – you can’t second guess whether it’s a replica or if he’s going to shoot you. You just get out of there.”

In February this year, a young Phuket mother spoke about the terrifying moment when a tourist bus driver apparently succumbed to road rage near Central Festival and pointed a pistol at her head while her young son was sitting next to her in the car.

The driver was later arrested and the case is currently before the Phuket Provincial Court.

Barry said his experience and incidents such as the one at Central Festival give Thailand a bad image, but added, “These people are not representative of the majority of Thais who are so nice and helpful.”

Dengue epidemic ‘slowing’ THE NUMBER OF PHUKET people contracting dengue fever is falling, Dr Bancha Khakong, Phuket’s Chief Medical Officer told The Phuket News on Tuesday (July 30), and the epidemic appears to be abating.

He said that in May and June the number of people contracting the mosquitoborne disease averaged 120 a week. In the past week the number of new patients was 49.

“However, we are not complacent. We are still keeping an eye on the situation [in case of a resurgence], he said.

JUST A DRILL Astonished passengers emerged from Terminal 2 of Phuket International Airport on Wednesday morning (July 31) to find themselves, apparently, in the middle of a bomb crisis. Happily, plenty of officials were on hand to explain to them that this was not the real thing, but a full scale emergency exercise involving the Thai Bomb Squad, firefighters, doctors, nurses and other crisis experts.

Crane topples, smashes shops FL.2

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A LARGE MOBILE CRANE toppled over in Patong on Wednesday afternoon (July 31) when the operator misjudged the weight of a concrete culvert section he was lifting. The jib of the crane crashed down onto a row of two-story shops and offices.

Witnesses said that during the operation on Phang Muang

Sai Kor Rd, behind Jungceylon, the operator, Winai Hongthong, appeared to swing the crane around too fast.

Its load swung out wide, past the tipping point. The upper floors of three shops – a pharmacy, tattoo shop and a clothing shop were totally destroyed.

Amazingly, no one was

killed or hurt. The cost of cleaning up the mess is not yet known.

Phuket officials including Phuket Governor Maitree Intusut, Veera Kerdsirimongkol Chief of Kathu District and Pol Col Jirapat Pohchanapant, Kathu Police Superintendent, rushed to the scene.

The owner of the crane,

Siamphan Wattana Co, was contacted to come and remove the crane and clean up the mess.

The incident took place not far from where two motorcyclists rode their bikes into a 2.5-metre deep flooded hole in the road, part of the same major sewerage project, six weeks ago. Eakkapop Thongtub thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

IN BRIEF Russian escapes burning car Russian Maxim Kashutin had a lucky escape just before midnight on July 25 when he lost his way while driving home and crashed his car in a small farm. The car burst into flames and was destroyed by the fire, but Mr Kashutin leapt clear and was unharmed.

According to Chalong Police, Mr Kashutin was visiting a friend whose house is on a small road off Soi Yodsane in Chalong. On his way home to his house in Kwang Rd he lost the way, drove down a small track and hit a dyke surrounding a field, triggering the fire.

Four arrested for vicious assault Karon Police on Saturday (July 27) arrested four teenagers after they beat and stabbed a 41-year-old when a drunken row in a bar went bad.

Three out of four are under 18 years old and cannot be named. The fourth, aged 19, was named as Amorn Pattakor from Phrae Province.

By the time police arrived at the bar where the fracas took place, the fight was over and the only participant remaining was Srilerd Pong-Aroon, 41, who had been beaten and stabbed. He was taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital for treament.

Looking for evidence, police found CCTV footage of the fight and were able to identify the four teens.

Bonus for police at checkpoint Police stopped a man early on Wednesday morning (July 31) at a check point in Chalong, on suspicion of possession of drugs – and had a bonus dropped in their laps.

They found just over a gram of marijuana in the pocket of Poramet “M” K hamnopphakhun, 30, from Angthong province.

Looking at him they also realised that he fit the description of a man wanted for a bag-snatching a week ago along Chao Fah West Rd. Under questioning Poramet admitted that he was the one who robbed Philippine national Joanne Garcia a week earlier.

He showed off icers where he had thrown away Ms Garcia’s bag and it was recovered, along with her passport, credit cards and workplace ID card. @thephuketnews

UPHEAVAL

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

PHUKET NEWS

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Laguna Phuket leaps to spin layoff reports Alasdair Forbes execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

L

aguna Phuket rushed on Wednesday morning (July 31) to address reports that one of the company’s – and the island’s – best known figures, Destination Marketing chief Debbie Dionysius, is leaving the company, and that she is just one of many.

Unofficial reports say that as many as 300 staff – about 10 per cent of the Laguna Phuket total – are leaving. As of time of going to press this number could not be confirmed.

In its press release, Laguna said, “Like most companies, Laguna Resorts & Hotels periodically conducts comprehensive reviews of its operations and when the need arises, implements necessary measures to realign its business goals and objectives.

“These exercises allow the company to adapt to the constantly changing dynamics in the Phuket tourism industry.

“As a result of such a review, Laguna Phuket Golf Club will soon undergo a major renovation of the entire 18-hole golf course in phases and consequently some staff

Going: Debbie Dionysius. Photo: Dan Miles Media members have taken the opportunity to participate in the company’s attractive early retirement programme.”

The statement stresses that operations such as the Laguna Wedding Chapel, Quest and Laguna Tours remain unchanged and that events such as the annual triathlon and

marathon, in which Ms Dionysius played a crucial role, “will continue to be annual activities of Laguna Phuket”.

Close to the end of the statement, the statement alluded vaguely to Ms Dionysius’ department, which has been crucial in marketing not only Laguna as a destination

but also, by extension, Phuket.

“Destination Marketing will continue to perform its normal functions with a more streamlined operational structure and strategies,” the statement read.

The statement came after the publication of a story by Bill Barnett of consultancy C9 Hotelworks, on his thephuketinsider.com blog, which commented on the departure of Ms Dionysius.

In it, he wrote, “It would be unfair to say Laguna has turned its back on Phuket, but more realistic to say they have turned in an opposite direction, reacting to the rise of mass tourism and the changing face of the east.”

He concluded, “Viewing the longer term horizon, the diminishment of Laguna Phuket’s destination marketing mandate is not only their loss, but that of the entire island.”

The story was later taken down from the blog.

Senior management of the company have declined to make any further comment, referring all enquirers to the official press release.

Ms Dionysius also could not be reached for comment.

Police pushed for info on attack THE KATHU DISTRICT Secretary (Palad) has written to Kathu Police demanding a report on a violent fracas in Patong on Tuesday (July 30) in which four members of a South African family were beaten by a gang of six men.

A four – father, mother son and daughter were attacked and beaten early on Tuesday morning as they walked along Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Rd, close to the Aloha Hotel in Patong.

Pol Maj Jakkapong Luangon of Kathu Police Station said

he received a report at 1:45 in the morning that some foreigners were being beaten.

Arriving at the scene they found a man who gave his name as Bob House, bleeding and asking for help.

“I just ran,” he told bystanders. “They chased me and hit me and I kept running and they kept hitting me.”

All the family were attacked at some stage, some ending up with cuts and bruises to the face and body.

But later the same day

police said that the family had decided to take the matter no further.

The letter from the Palad, Wisoot Preuksuwan, was stamped “Very Urgent” and demanded a response from the police by next Monday (August 5). He also asked for information about an incident involving three Chinese tourists.

On the same evening as the attack, police had to help the Chinese after they returned from supperto find the air valves removed from two tyres.

Police said that they suspected a tuk-tuk or taxi driver had let the air out of the tyres to punish the tourists for parking in “their” parking place.

Heavy rain has severely eroded this Kathu hillside.

Gov checks landslide risk areas OFFICI ALS W ENT ON Tuesday (July 30) to check on locations at high risk of landslides above Loch Palm Golf Club.

Veera Kerdsirimongkol, Kathu District Chief said, “In this area there is a landslide hazard because developers have stripped the soil surface.

If it rains heavily for a while, there is a chance of landslides.

“There are many areas in Patong and Kamala where landslides may take place because the surface has been stripped.”

But Phuket Govenor Maitree Intusut noted that not all landslides result from human action. “From what we have seen today, most [of the highrisk areas result from] natural causes. Today, we came to check and observe the place, since we are concerned about the safety of the locals and tourists.

“Provincial officers will give priority to taking care of these areas; we have identified four particularly high-risk areas in Kathu and seven around Patong.”

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM Phuket Seven Day Weather Forecast

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olice revealed on July 25 that five of the 10 members of the ‘bottom smack’ gang, ar rested earlier for riding past Municipal workers and slapping their backsides or heads, have been charged with something much more sinister – stabbing a Burmese man who irritated them.

The gang met the Burmese coming in the opposite direction along Tilok Uthit Rd in Phuket Town, stopped and berated him. He argued

back, so they stabbed him, police say.

The Burmese managed to stagger into a nearby Family Mart shop, where staff called the Kusoladharm Foundation to come to his aid. He was taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital where, it is understood, he is out of danger.

Five of the boys have been charged with attempted murder.

None of the gang members may be named as they are all under 18.

The gang were originally arrested

last week after complaints about the bottom-smacking incidents.

Pol Col Sermpan Sirikong, Superintendent of Phuket City Police told The Phuket News then that, acting on a complaint from a local, they went to find the gang of teens.

“They were acting silly towards other people, including the cleaners from the Municipality. The cleaners were sweeping the road and the teens rode their bikes along in a group and hit the bottoms or heads of the

workers, and upturned a trash can on their heads and laughed,” he said.

“We tried to trap them but when they saw the police, they would ride in the other direction. But we finally tracked them down this morning.”

Police discovered that at least one of the bikes being ridden by the gang was stolen.

“We charged them with stealing motorcycles, physical assault and larceny. They all admitted their guilt.”

Earthmovers seized in suspected encroachment Naraporn Tuarob reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

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OFFICIALS FROM THE Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division on Monday (July 29) seized three backhoes and a roller being used to level a piece of land officials believe is within a National Forest Reserve.

After the raid on the land among mangroves along Klong Koh Pee – close to Sakdidet Rd at the north end of Cape Panwa – Paisarn Noopichai, Chief of the Forest Protection and Preservation Unit Phuket, told The Phuket News, “We received a tip-off from local people that there

Officials inspect the land at Klong Koh Pee, at the north end of Cape Panwa. was a land encroachment in this area, so we went to check.

When we got there, we found a backhoe working.

“The land was being levelled but we don’t know what the intention is. We asked for the land ownership documents

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of this land. This piece of land we checked was seven rai but the ‘owner’ presented us with three NorSor3 Kor

land papers issued in 1993 and totalling 14 rai.

“We have checked our maps and have found that this land is in a National Forest Reserve. So we have to check with the Land Office in Phuket whether the land documents were legitimately issued or not.

“In the meantime we have seized three backhoes and one roller.”

Increasingly, in raids on land believed to be state land or some form of natural reserve turn up apparently legitimate land papers, throwing suspicion on the Land Office.

So far, no action appears to have been taken against Land Office officials.

Phuket sisters die in horror smash

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A TASTE OF JAPAN It was a fun weekend at Jungceylon when the Ennichi Japanese

temple festival event came to the shopping mall, hosted by the Japanese Association of Phuket. Many customers enjoyed learning about the customs and culture of Japan.

TWO SISTERS DIED ON Saturday morning (July 27) when their motorbike was hit by a Phuket Provincial Electricity Authority pickup truck near the Lotus Express store in Kuku, on the northern edge of Phuket Town.

Warangkana Angsakul, 51, who was a teacher at Muang Phuket Municipal School was killed on the spot.

Her younger sister, Manta Angsakul, 47, died soon after being taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital.

Police said the driver of the pickup, Peeraroj

Jinawat, was overtaking when he collided with the sisters on their motorbike, coming the opposite way.

The collision was so violent that it wrecked the front of the pickup, bursting the radiator. The bike was jammed into the front of the truck.

The body of Ms Warangkana was found five meters from the bike, while her sister was lying in the road five metres further away. Both suffered multiple injuries.

The pickup driver was not hurt. He later surrendered to police. thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

Waste on Racha Yai remains a hot topic Prapaporn Jitmaneeyaphan reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

A

t a meeting last Friday (July 26), the mounting environmental concerns plaguing Racha Yai island, off Phuket, were again discussed.

The meeting in the OrBorTor Rawai offices followed a visit to the island by officials in February this year, where they were shown inadequate waste water systems, beach encroachment, illegal garbage dumps and an illegal concrete bridge that is restricting canal flow.

Sarid Jandee, president of the Racha Yai Conservation Club, said during the meeting that The Racha hotel took garbage from the island three times per week.

“Baan Rayan, Raya Resort and Raya Father have all sorted out their trash. Other hotels are co-operating, apart from Rayaburi,” Mr Sarid alleged.

“The Racha hotel has hired two men, over a period of five months, to keep the beach clean.

“The GM of this hotel told the two men to keep an eye on the beach for nine hours every day.

Not even brushwood is allowed

The popular image of Racha Yai – beautiful beaches and sea – is under threat. Photo: Jeff Gunn on the beach.”

Phuket Vice Governor, Dr Sommai Preechasilpa, who was also at the meeting, requested the press to publish Rayaburi’s name to put pressure on the owners to join in the clean-up drive.

“We have to be more strict with Rayaburi, and send them official letters,” Dr Sommai said.

“We need to encourage all businesspeople to realise that they have to take their garbage off the island.”

But the manager of the Rayaburi Resort, contacted by The Phuket News after the meeting, denied that the resort was deliberately dodging its responsibilities.

“We are willing to follow and comply with whatever the officials and other hotels see as appropriate in order to make the island beautiful,” he said.

“But I just received the official letter [about the meeting] yesterday evening (July 25). I really wanted to join the meeting today but I couldn’t get off the island because the boat only comes here once a day.”

Dr Sommai said that other hotels on the island were cooperating. She cited The Racha, which said it was going to set up a waste water treatment system.

She added, “Rawai Municipality has to help find a spot for

3-METRE KING COBRA CAUGHT IN KARON

hotels to drop their waste off, and the municipality is responsible for bringing the waste to Phuket.”

A representative from Rawai Municipality, which covers Racha Yai, pleased poverty. He said the municipality has very little budget for handling garbage, not only on the island but also in the rest of the tambon.

It has just three garbage trucks, he explained, to collect trash from seven villages on Phuket island, and about 10 labour camps.

“We don’t have enough budget for waste disposal. And frankly, the garbage fee that we collect from hotels is not much.”

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Karaoke players seized by DSI for copyright rip-off TEN KARAOKE MACHINES WERE seized on Saturday night (July 27) from different karaoke clubs in Muang District and Patong in raids by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI).

Udom Petchkut, Director of the DSI, Region 8, told The Phuket News on Monday (July 29) that officers had received a complaint of copyright infringement from Music Copyright Thailand Co (MCT), stating that there were karaoke venues in Phuket illegally using songs for commercial purposes.

“In Phuket, we have established that there are about 50 venues that probably violate copyright. On Saturday we made unannounced visits to 10 venues in Phuket Town and Rassada sub-district where we found nine venues [that were infringing copyright] and seized nine karaoke machines.

“We also went to Patong and seized one karaoke machine from a venue there.

The DSI found only low-level staff at the venues, he said.

“They knew nothing about whether the copyright fees had been paid or not, so we will use them as witnesses in our further investigations. The machines had been rented, complete with music, from various companies.”

Because the complaint by MCT was made to the DSI, and was accepted as a special case, the DSI has the power to pursue the case without reference to local police.

New Stoc k

A Burmese man named Yong got the fright of his life when he saw a three metrelong king cobra snake near his house in Karon on Tuesday (July 30).

Yong, who was at his house at the time, heard a noise at a nearby waterway, then spotted the huge king cobra, which was eating a small python.

Yong called his Thai friend Joy, who said, “I arrived there but two people from the snake farm in Chalong had already easily caught the snake”.

They planned to release it in the wild, Joy said.

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BAD DREAM VACATION? Do the dangers of Thailand pose a real threat to tourism?

W

hen violent, unforeseen events turn your dream vacation into a nightmare, who can you turn to for help and who is ultimately at fault?

During the last two weeks of June, two incidents in popular holiday destinations were serious enough to make headlines.

Three foreigners sustained gunshot injuries in Chiang Mai when a drunken college student opened fire in a restaurant.

And in Phuket, as reported exclusively in The Phuket News, a Russian man was slapped around and a fake revolver pressed against his forehead by the jealous boyfriend of a Thai woman with whom the Russian had become friendly. The incident was captured on video and went viral.

Sexual assaults are always newsworthy, but few in recent years have been as widely publicised as that by the socalled “Evil Man of Krabi”, the title of an angry video clip posted on YouTube last year by the father of a Dutch teenager raped while on holiday in Krabi.

Another threat to tourists’ safety was again brought to the fore last week by the deadly bus accident in Saraburi in which 19 people lost their lives.

Although no foreigners were killed in the collision between a cement truck and a passenger coach, reports in the international media gave the impression that safety standards tend to be poor in Thailand and transport accidents relatively common.

Accounts by foreign TV stations and newspapers mentioned the derailing, earlier this month, of an overnight sleeper train to Chiang Mai, in which 23 people, including 18 foreign tourists, were injured, and referred to another accident in April when five people, including a Belgian woman, were killed when a tour bus plummeted off a hillside in Phitsanulok after its brakes failed.

The rash of negative reports prompted Deputy Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul to issue a statement assuring the world that tourist safety was one of the government’s

A Russian tourist in Phuket had a fake revolver pressed to his forehead by a Thai man, in a dispute over a woman. top priorities.

According to statistics compiled by the tourist police, an average of 8.5 complaints are made each day.

“But that doesn’t mean that Thailand is unsafe for tourists,” said Pol Maj Gen Roy Inkapairoj, commander

of the Tourist Police Division.

“When something happens to tourists, police make an effort to catch a suspect or suspects as fast as we can.”

Last year the tourist police dealt with 3,119 cases, an increase of 26.6 per cent on the figure for 2011. About 82 per cent of those complaints involved the loss of valuables (1,798 reports) or documents (183 cases) or the theft of belongings from public buses (587 incidents).

Another 15 per cent of the complaints were from the victims of scams, mostly by jewellers (341 reports), tailors (55) and tour agents (60).

The remaining 3 per cent of complaints related to physical assault (85 cases) and tourists being given spiked drinks and then robbed (seven reports).

However, during the first four months of this year, the number of reports of physical attacks on tourists (87) has already surpassed the total for all of last year.

“The situation is tense, but

it is still in hand,” said Gen Roy. “Although our workforce remains the same, the number of foreign tourists has increased every year. We have managed to keep the ratio down to less than 20 criminal cases per 100,000 tourists.

“Every country has bad guys, otherwise there wouldn’t be policemen. If a bad guy sees a chance to deceive someone, he will. Tourists should know how to avoid putting themselves at risk. They shouldn’t go walking alone late at night in deserted places, for instance, or go around with total strangers.

“Sometimes a difference in culture might lead to different thinking or misinterpretations, so tourists should be aware of who they are associating with.”

When things go as planned, Thailand can be a paradise for people on vacation, but given the large volume of tourist arrivals and the law of averages, accidents and crime are to be expected.

But has the risk to our foreign guests become unacceptably high? The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Status Report on Road Safety 2013 ranks Thailand in 10th place in terms of roadaccident fatalities.

India tops the list, followed

by China, Brazil, the US and Indonesia.

In Southeast Asia, Indo-

nesia had the worst toll with 31,234 deaths caused by road accident. Thailand came next (13,766 deaths), followed by Vietnam (11,029), the Philippines (6,941), Malaysia (6,872), Myanmar (2,464), Cambodia (1,816), Laos (790), Singapore (193) and Brunei (46).

The WHO found that half of the world’s road traffic deaths occur among motorcyclists (23 per cent), pedestrians (22 per cent) and cyclists (5 per cent), but in Thailand a staggering 74 per cent of the total fatalities were accounted for by people riding motorbikes or motorised three-wheel vehicles.

While one of the chief causes of road accidents in Thailand is still alcohol consumption, another factor, according to research done by a team from Thammasat University, is recklessness on the part of tourists.

For a project called “Tourist Satisfaction and Travel Behaviour of Safe Journeys for Foreign Tourists”, the researchers polled 800 people (tourists, service providers and officials) in six popular tourist destinations including Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket.

They found that the majority of tourists rode motorbikes without having a driving licence and with little or no driving experience.

Many tourists on Phuket ride motorbikes without having a driving licence and with little or no driving experience.

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“Some tourists have never driven motorcycles in their lives, but they rent motorbikes here to look around on,” said Assoc Prof Pawinee Iamtrakul, assistant dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Planning at Thammasat.

One of the reasons for this is that motorbike-hire shops take advantage of a loophole in the law and only require tourists to show their passport rather than a driving licence, Dr Pawinee explained.

The survey found that 64.5 per cent of tourist drivers did not have international driving licences, 65 per cent were unfamiliar with Thai rules of the road and 70 per cent were unaware of the penalties for breaking traffic laws here.

Almost half of those polled said they would drink and drive and would have no compunction about exceeding the speed limit. About 59 per cent of them said they do not use seatbelts and 58 per cent do not wear helmets.

About one-fifth of tourists polled did not have travel insurance and about 33 per cent of tour agents were found not to pay travel insurance for tourists in their charge.

In addition, one-third of local service providers do not carry out regular maintenance on vehicles used for ferrying tourists around. More than half of the tourists polled felt

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PHUKET FOCUS

Cheap to rent and no licence required makes motorbike rental a popular transport choice for tourists on Phuket. that road safety standards in Thailand were lower than in their home countries for every mode of land transportation.

Other concerns were that traffic-law enforcement here is far from stringent and that when tourists have an accident, they do not know whom to ask for help, or how.

“Visitors do not know what number to ring in an emergency,” Dr Pawinee said, adding that, in any case, the police call-centre number, 191, is often hard to get through to.

It might be useful if there were one centre to take care of road-safety issues for tourists while road-safety policy

should be made part of any national tourism policy, she added.

Tourists should be given safety guidelines and emergency numbers when they do online searches for travel information about Thailand, she said, adding that the Tourism Authority of Thailand should consider putting such information on the front page of its website.

According to Tourism and Sports Minister Somsak Pureesrisak, tourist safety is one of his top priorities since it affects the confidence of foreign visitors in travelling freely around this country.

“The principal thing is not to have any crime. But if there is wrongdoing, assistance should be offered as quickly as possible,” he said, making the point that taking care of tourists involved in unfortunate incidents was as important as preventing such incidents in the first place; his reasoning was that while physical injuries can usually be healed, mental trauma is harder to recover from.

The minister cited the case of a speedboat crash in Pattaya in which three Korean visitors, including a child, were injured.

One of the victims, who

worked as a taxi driver in his home town, lost a leg as a result of the accident. “His wife cried hopelessly when I went to visit them. It was truly our fault so, as a representative of the Thai government, I went to the hospital [in Pattaya] to make an official apology,” he said.

“A lesson has been learned and we must not let this sort of thing happen again. It is unacceptable that those offering speed boats for hire in such a well-known tourist destination as Pattaya do not have to adhere to any safety standards,” Mr Somsak said, adding this was just one

7

among many issues related to tourist safety that need to be addressed.

The establishment of a special court of law to try offences involving tourists swiftly is close to fruition, he noted, adding: “We will try to tighten up all the judicial processes.”

As Thailand’s economic growth depends on the growth of its tourism industry, the minister said, it is an absolute must for all parties concerned to make the security issue a national priority. A recent spate of accidents in the Kingdom has brought the issue of traveller safety to the fore.

TTR Weekly reports that the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has wholeheartedly backed the government’s efforts to crack down on so-called mafia-style influence in tourist destinations across the country, especially Phuket.

“It can only do good and rebuild a good image for the country to crack down on illegal activities at tourist resorts,” ATTA president, Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, said at the association’s meeting on Thursday (July 25).

The president urged ATTA members to conduct their business according to the law and to abide by regulations to ensure competitiveness and quality. Bangkok Post

8

OPINION

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TANYALUK ‘MANGO’ SAKOOT

Out with the bad

W

orking at a newspaper, and even as news consumers ourselves, we tend to be drawn to the bad.

Whether such interest is born from an intrinsic human want to understand and even help in such incidents or whether it’s just morbid fascination is one for the psychologists to debate.

Many hoteliers and politicians often bemoan the existence of so much coverage of cheating, skimming, scamming, murdering and robbing. Such writing is damaging to the image of Phuket they argue.

While it’s true that Phuket newspapers and news sites rarely run stories about holidaymakers simply coming to the island, having a great time and leaving, like perhaps the 99.9 per cent of the 8 million visitors who do so annually, this is largely because you, our reader, would not be interested in reading about it.

It is the remarkable or the negative that we report because

this is what people want to read about and this is what might be changed or at least chronicled in the hope that those responsible will be held accountable.

While it’s worth remembering the statistical context of such negative stories, it’s also worth bearing in mind that there appears to be an increasing number of incidents of violence and criminality locally.

Just this week a South African family, including wife and daughter, were chased and beaten by a group of six men in Patong. On that same night a group of Chinese tourists had their rented vehicle’s tires deflated after they parked in a ‘specially reserved’ area.

The effectiveness of government meetings, of setting up of committees, of increased police patrols and public displays of significant drug and counterfeit hauls have been called into question of late, not only by newspapers, news sites and the general Phuket reader

but – significantly – by national authorities.

While findings from last week’s Department of Special Investigation’s visit to the island are still being analysed, and plans are yet to be put into action, what is clear is that Bangkok authorities, in particular, the Ministry of Tourism who requested the DSI’s visit, are unsure of Phuket authorities’ abilities. Issues of corruption and crime need to be addressed urgently, and much needs to be done. The message is clear – if local authorities are unable to effect the changes, Bangkok definitely is.

The first of hopefully many positive initiatives to emerge from the capital is for Phuket, alongside Pattaya, to have a ‘Centre for Control of Organised Crime’, to tackle the worst criminality head on.

This for a change is ‘good news’ – and a story that we will be following closely in the months ahead.

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Three-metre-long king cobra found in Phuket garden [VIDEO] British expat threatened in Phuket roadrage incident South African family attacked in Phuket nighttime street Waste on Racha Yai continues to be hot topic Frenchman held over stolen car in Phuket ‘Russian probe’ zeroes in on 24 firms in Phuket Lending a helping hand to the island’s tourists and expats Phuket to get Organised Crime Centre – DSI boss ‘Bottom smacking’ teen gang caught by Phuket cops Phuket ‘bottom smack’ gang members charged with attempted murder

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OPINION

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

9

AEC spells another English conundrum for the country Usnisa Sukhsvasti usnisas@bangkokpost.co.th

I

n two years, the Asean Economic Community will be up and running, and we will be looking towards borders that are not only limited to our immediate neighbours – Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia, but further out as far as the Philippines to the east and Indonesia to the south.

Apart from all the economic and trade opportunities that will open up, there will be a free flow of seven key professions, namely doctors, dentists, nurses, engineers, architects, accountants and surveyors.

Tourism professionals will also benefit from the AEC, with those who have passed the Asean Competency Standard (a test that is still in the formulation stage) being able to work in other Asean countries as well.

How does this bode for Thailand? Not being in the business sector, I’m only just beginning to look into this, and with my limited perspective I’m not convinced Thailand is going to emerge as

a winner.

Thailand has a wealth of wellqualified professionals in every field mentioned above. Our universities are second to none, and our overseas graduates have returned to fill up the resource pool in Thailand. \ Yet are they looking forward to moving to other Asean countries to make a living?

Knowing the Thai characteristic for “sabai sabai”, it’s highly unlikely they would be happy subjecting themselves to the work ethics of Singapore, for example.

I don’t think it’s a matter of being lazy. Don’t get me wrong.

Thais can be as dedicated as the best of them, but they will do this of their own accord, because they are passionate about their work, because they enjoy the environment and fraternity of their fellow colleagues, not because they are being compelled to from external forces.

It is a characteristic that has been ingrained through the generations, by a sense of national pride that has been reinforced by history books written by patriotic academics, to make ourselves

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Should we all be carrying guns?

[Re. British expat threatened in Phuket road-rage incident] Tomorrow I will go to the police station to request what documents I need to get a gun legally to protect my life and my property, when being threatened by vicious criminals.

Stranger I thought foreigners were not allowed to own guns. Perhaps the laws have changed. They should change. Let us know how it goes. Although I’m personally against the idea of everyone having a gun, it’s getting rather crazy here.

Dave Williams Stranger, unless you are Thai, or know an “influential” person, then by law you cannot legally own a firearm.

Sad but true, farang are expendable.

Laurie Howells

Saying no to the passenger fee

[Re. AoT to hike passenger fee] It’s a publicly listed company whose market cap has increased B200 billion in the last two years. As such it should use the capital market for the reason it is listed as a public company, to get capital.

Thai investors are clamouring for airport infra investments because the stock has more than tripled recently.

So let them raise cash, but not with another airport fee.

They just got a raise in the fee a year ago. They don’t need it, they can get the money issuing more shares.

Steve Stoffers

Support needed for Andrea [Re. Injured Phuket expat returns to UK] Andrea is my friend and a great girl. I donated and helped with a charity event in her aid.

What is the point of your c**p Mr Guest?

Maybe you might be injured one day and the insurance won’t cover it as they recently did with my broken

look like the victims of aggression from others, to create a band of legendary heroes that become the stuff of cinema productions, stage presentations and light and sound spectacles.

We are proud of being the only country in Southeast Asia to never have been colonised, and sometimes, just sometimes, you can sense just the slightest tinge of scorn towards those who once had to kowtow to the British, the French or the Dutch as the case may be.

And then there’s the culture of patronage and respect for those higher up in the pecking order of things, doctors being among the most respected professions of all time. They are smart, they are rich, they touch you and heal you, they are gods! Do you think they are going to work in a strange country, and answer to some foreign hospital director who had parents who once kowtowed to the Dutch?

My cynicism may be a bit exaggerated, I realise, but you get where I’m going with this.

What I suggest is that the traffic for the free flow of professionals

is more likely going to be one-way – inbound. You also have to admit that Thailand has a lot going for it in terms of standard of living, choice of food and leisure activities, a free and open society, nice, hospitable people (generally) and great shopping to boot. It’s going to draw a lot of interest from members of those professions who have an advantage over Thais in their English-speaking abilities.

The tourism industry is definitely going to find a growing pool of resources looking to find work in Thailand. The Filipinos, for instance, do not only speak English fluently, they are great singers and entertainers. Talk about multi-tasking!

Thais, meanwhile, are finding that the English they have been learning since kindergarten means absolutely nothing. The fact that they know that a gerund must be used when a verb comes after a preposition doesn’t really help when they are suddenly faced with a real life tall blond Scandinavian asking whether durian can be carried on the BTS. And yet today, even before the

HAVE YOUR SAY hand.

The support Andrea has received has been immense because she has touched so many people’s lives. I wonder how many people would come to your aid in such an event you nasty little mug.

Guy

Phuket’s driving me crazy [Re. Phuket sisters die in horror crash] They were relatives of a colleague of mine, I heard the bad news yesterday. This month, in the place I work, another colleague lost her 10-yearold daughter in another bike accident.

I’ve lost count of how many lives have been taken away from the love of friends and relatives in the 10 years I’ve been in Thailand. It is totally unacceptable that so many people die like this, so many words have been wasted, blaming this and that.

Do you know how to get a driver license in Thailand?

It’s simple, bloody simple.

It’s just a license to kill,

no driving school required, no practice required, nothing, even worse, you’re ready to legally take a 500 HP pimp car and drive it! And still we try to understand why these accidents happen?

We still ask ourselves, what does it mean, all that chaotic turning, and lights blinking on the van ahead of us? Why do they use the hazard lights to go straight? (When I tell my friends abroad, they think is a joke). We still wonder why they overtake with zero visibility and a double continuous yellow line right in the middle, and so on, and on and on...

Francesco Greco

Who benefits?

[Re. DSI catches10 Phuket karaoke clubs on copyright] Copyright? What I want to know is with the “copyright fees” they collect, do they ever get back into the hands of the artist anyway? I highly doubt it.

SomeoneWhoCaresJingJing

Usnisa Sukhsvasti is the features editor of the Bangkok Post.

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More action, please, DSI [Re. Phuket to get Organised Crime Centre – DSI boss] I’ve lived here not for too long of a time, but I have already witnessed one reshuffle of high officials here. Before the reshuffle I saw only talks about problems, not actions. After the reshuffle, the situation is 100 per cent the same.

Stranger Civil servants from Bangkok are well educated and understand more than we may think about the problems plaguing Phuket.

It is not only arresting local gang leaders they want to accomplish, but breakdown those local politicians who protect them to be elected during election.

Whistle-Blower

If you don’t like it here, then leave [Re. ‘Russian probe’ zeroes in on 24 firms in Phuket] The Thai law regarding foreign businesses is strict and yes,

Have an opinion? Comment on stories at thephuketnews.com @thephuketnews

AEC comes into being, there is already an influx of foreign waiters in Bangkok restaurants. Hotelier Kamala Sukosol was rather distressed to find there was hardly anyone who could speak Thai at a restaurant she visited recently.

The entire establishment was run

by Filipinos whose language skills admittedly far exceed the general Thai worker.

She is even thinking of being the first hotel group to impose a rule of Thai staff only. “No one can beat the Thais when it comes to hospitality and friendliness, and that’s Thailand’s strength!” she insisted. Nice thought, but better check whether there are going to be any laws regarding racial discrimination in the workplace.

So Thais had better start getting their act together if we’re going to compete with our neighbours in two years. Apart from revamping the entire English language curriculum, why not see whether we can get the 3G going, sooner rather than later?

somehow not fair. But, it is the law and we have to follow it.

Anybody (especially Russians) who can’t live with that should not open a business and should go back home.

Cassiopaia

We need to stop the violence [Re. South African family attacked in Phuket nighttime street] There is no one who can stop this. Send some police down from Bangkok to look at how many parking places on Patong beach road are reserved for normal visitors .

Nobody can’t stop this as long as tourists keep coming to”Paradise”.

Daniel I don’t think it’s a stretch to assume tuk tuk drivers are behind both of these incidents.

Joe Blazy It’s not the entire island. It tends to be Patong and the other tacky tourist destinations. It’s a bit of a stretch to condemn the entire island.

Guest

10 THAILAND NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

‘Al-Qaeda’ issues Thaksin threat

A

YouTube video claiming to be an al-Qaeda threat against fugitive ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra was removed by the video service on Saturday as too violent, and then reappeared hours later.

The 2-minute, 45-second video is entitled ‘Al-Qaeda video against former Thailand Prime Minister’.

It showed three men in Arab-style clothing, one armed with what appears to be an AK-47, with the “leader” in the centre reading the death Stern eyes stare at the camera while delivering a warning to the former Prime Minister. threat. Later in the video, the The English language com- ings at Tak Bai district town, “We will get you any time, other two men also carry assault rifles, which appeared mentary included threats to while Thaksin was premier. anywhere in the world,” said “You have killed our Mus- the speaker. to be real or replica AK-47s. kill Thaksin, “to avenge the There was little other conThe third man holds a killing of Muslims in the South lim brothers in Tak Bai, south in 2004”. It referred to the kill- Thailand,” the video stated. text provided in the video. photo of Thaksin.

The uploader of the original video, a registered YouTube user with the handle ‘mansoor ahmed volvo’, appears to be a Pakistani, who posts often in Urdu about the Punjab, the disputed area along the Indian border. The accent in the video could indicate the speaker was from South Asia.

The first upload to YouTube was removed after a few hours with the notice: ‘This video has been removed as a violation of YouTube’s policy on violence’.

It appeared again from a different uploader several hours after that.

Southern militants have denied any connections with al-Qaeda or similar foreign terrorist groups. Bangkok Post

Oil spill hits Thai tourist island, foreign help needed THAI NAVY PERSONNEL battled Monday to clean up a major oil slick which coated a beach on the popular tourist island of Koh Samet after a pipeline leak.

Roughly 50,000 litres of crude oil gushed into the sea on Saturday about 20 kilometres off the coast of the eastern province of Rayong, operator PTT Global Chemical said.

The oil reached Ao Phrao beach on the island of Koh Samet, where hundreds of navy personnel, national park officials, company workers and villagers raced to remove it.

“It covers about 300 metres of the beach. That’s a lot,” Soomet Saitong, chief of the Khao Laem Ya National Park which includes Samet island, said.

Some visitors were cutting short their holidays on the island, which is a popular destination for weekend breaks for Bangkok residents.

“There are oil stains right in front of the beach. Customers are starting to check out,” a worker at the Ao Phrao Resort told.

“There’s oil all over on the beach,” said a member of the front desk staff at another

nearby hotel.

“We just have to accept it.

It’s chaotic right now. Many people and officials are on the beach dealing with it.”

The pipeline operator – part of state-owned giant PTT – had said in a statement Sunday that 10 ships were involved in an urgent cleanup and it was confident of containing the spill.

PTT Global Chemical chief executive Anon Sirisaengtaksin apologised at a news conference Monday and said the company accepted responsibility for the leak.

The group said the spillage came as crude oil from an Omani tanker moored offshore was being transferred to the pipeline for delivery to a PTT refinery.

A local member of parlia-

ment suggested that the size of the leak might have been even worse than initially reported.

“If that [50,000 litres] was the real amount, they should have already eliminated it – they should have solved the problem fast enough before it reached Samet island,” said Sathit Pitutacha, a lawmaker from Rayong with the opposition Democrat Party.

Greenpeace urged Thailand to, once and for all, end oil drilling and exploration in the Gulf of Thailand in light of what it described as a “massive leak”.

Another PTT subsidiary was involved in a huge oil spill off northwestern Australia in 2009 that was the country’s worst ever offshore drilling accident. AFP

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

IN BRIEF Thailand’s new push for ‘fabulous’ tourism The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) along with 30 leading providers of health, beauty, and spa treatments have joined together to launch the ‘Find Your Fabulous’ medical tourism campaign.

It will offer exclusive deals on wellness and beauty treatments, spa packages, and hotel stays in Thailand and is hoped to generate a further B50 million for the industry.

Foreigners arrested for using fake ATM cards Pattaya Police arrested a gang of locals and foreigners for withdrawing a combined total of B20 million from banks in Pattaya using fake ATM cards on July 27.

Seven of the suspects were of Eastern European and Middle Eastern origin, while the other three were from Thailand. Pattaya Daily News

Police take down Pattaya drug gang Police arrested six suspects of a major d r ug dealing group on July 27.

An estimated 36,000 pills and 400 grams of crystal methamphetamine were found in their possession, with a street value of over B8 million. PDN

Fugitive Swiss arrested for sexual assault case A 67-year-old Swiss national who has been wanted for sexual violation of minors in France for more than 20 years was finally caught on July 26. Robert Constantin Tschopp was arrested by Pattaya Police officers at his house in Pattaya, who found nude pictures of minors and pornographic videos. PDN

One dead, two injured in Bangkok shootout Bangkok police and two drug suspects exchanged fire in a gun fight on Tuesday, resulting in one death and two injuries.

Pol Gen Pongsapat Pongcharoen, secretarygeneral of the Narcotics Control Board, said the drug packages bore the ‘999’ logo that represents the drug network led by Lt Col Yi Se, leader of an armed Muser group in Myanmar.

Bangkok Post thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

ASIA NEWS 11

China’s Bo Xilai accused of US$4m graft: media

The Shanghai skyline. Photo: Thomas Fischler

At least 10 dead as heatwave hits M

ore than 10 people have died in China’s commercial hub Shanghai, a local health official said Wednesday as the city grapples with its highest temperatures in at least 140 years.

Much of China is in the grip of a summer heatwave, and the China Meteorological Association issued a high temperature warning for several eastern and central provinces, saying temperatures may reach 41 degrees Celsius.

Leng Guangming, a spokesman at the Shanghai Municipal Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, said there had been

at least 10 victims of heat stroke up to last Friday in the city. He declined to give a more precise or more recent number.

City forecasters said temperatures were “rising rapidly” and may have reached 40 C in People’s Square on Wednesday.

Experts blame a subtropical high pressure system and a lack of rain for the recordbreaking heatwave, according to state media.

Pictures have shown people sheltering from the heat in airconditioned shops or subways, and trying to cool off in swimming pools and rivers.

Footage of a slice of pork cooked through in 10 minutes

on an outdoor stone slab, taken by a Shanghai TV station, has gone viral online.

“It turns out that the only difference between me and roast meat is a pinch of cumin,” joked one user of the Twitterlike microblog Sina Weibo.

Tuesday was the eighth consecutive day with temperatures above 38 C in Shanghai, the official Xinhua news agency reported, citing the local weather bureau.

The temperature reached 40.6 C last Friday, topping a previous high of 40.2 C in 1934 and the highest since records began in 1873, Xinhua said earlier. AFP

CORRUPTION CHARGES against disgraced Chinese politician Bo Xilai will date back to an earlier stage of his career, media reported Tuesday – a narrow focus that could help contain political fallout from the case.

The downfall of Bo – who ran the megacity of Chongqing and sat on the ruling Communist party’s 25-member Politburo – marked China’s biggest political scandal in decades.

His glittering career came crashing down amid allegations that his wife – later convicted of murder – was involved in the death of a British businessman and he had sought to block the police investigation.

More than a year after the scandal broke, Bo was indicted last week for embezzlement, bribery and abuse of power, the official Xinhua news agency reported.

But according to a report Tuesday from the respected current affairs magazine Caijing, the 25 million yuan (B128m) corruption charges against Bo stem from his time running the smaller city of Dalian in the 1990s,

not Chongqing. It did not cite a source.

Analysts say given the length of his career and the high positions he reached it seemed implausible corruption would only affect Bo’s earlier, less-powerful posts.

“When he was in Dalian he was able to take 25 million, could he possibly have stopped?” said China politics expert Steve Tsang, of the University of Nottingham, calling the concept “just not logical.”

But minimising the scope of charges avoided implicating others, exposing too much high-level corruption or requiring a tougher sentence, he added.

“They want to make sure the Bo Xilai case can be managed in a way that is least damaging to the party,” Tsang said.

Analysts say determining how to handle Bo’s trial would have required tough negotiations among the political elite, which can effectively dictate judicial proceedings.

From Dalian – a city of seven million people – Bo went on to run the national ministry of commerce and

then Chongqing metropolis with a population of 30 million.

The final accusation – abuse of power – relates to his attempt last year to stop his Chongqing police chief Wang Lijun investigating the role of Bo’s wife Gu Kailai in the death of British businessman Neil Heywood, Caijing said.

Fearing retribution from his boss, Wang fled to a US consulate in the city of Chengdu in February 2012, revealing the tangled situation.

Bo was detained a month later and Gu was handed a suspended death sentence in August for murder.

China’s President Xi Jinping has pledged a crackdown on rampant official corruption, but analysts doubt how effective it can be without upending powerful vested interests.

Western media last year revealed that Xi’s family has amassed hundreds of millions of dollars in assets and former Premier Wen Jiabao’s relatives had control of up to US$2.7 billion (B84 bn), although neither leader was linked with corruption. AFP

Indigo Pearl Famous Sunday Brunch is Back

For Mother’s Day.

Only August 11th So treat your most special one to the best brunch in Phuket

from 12:00 to 15:00 hrs THB 2,150++ with free flow of select beverages THB 1,950++ with soft drinks and juices 50% off for children 5-12 yrs Complimentary for children under 5 yrs Dress code: resort casual, similar dress code applies to children.

Sleeveless t-shirts are prohibited.

For reservations, please email: restaurant-team@indigo-pearl.com or call 076 327 006 www.indigo-pearl.com

@thephuketnews

12 WORLD NEWS

New York bid to ban giant fizzy drinks falls NEW YORK’S BID TO ban giant, sugary sodas on public health grounds suffered a new setback on Tuesday when an appeals court upheld a ruling striking down the proposed legislation.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who has championed the measure as part of the fight against an obesity epidemic and rampant diabetes, immediately announced that he would take the fight to a higher court.

New York’s Board of Health agreed in September 2012 to restrict soda servings to a maximum of 16 ounces (470 milliliters) in restaurants and other venues in the city, including sports stadiums and music venues.

But the initiative, which attracted global attention and would have been a first for a US city, was blocked as “arbitrary and capricious” by a lower court ruling in March, just hours before it was due to come into force.

That ruling was upheld on Tuesday by the New York State Supreme Court’s Apellate Division.

Bloomberg has made health issues a key plank of his 12-year reign at City Hall, which comes to an end in November.

He has banned smoking in restaurants, bars and other public places, and supported successful campaigns to get food producers to phase out the use of trans fats and cut salt content.

He described Tuesday’s court decision as only a temporary setback but representatives of the fizzy drinks industry are confident a last and final appeal to the state’s Court of Appeals will also fail.

Christopher Gindlesperger, a spokesman for the American Beverage Association (ABA), said the court had “unanimously declared the soda ban an overreach of executive power.

“With this ruling behind us, we look forward to collaborating with city leaders on solutions that will have a meaningful and lasting impact on the people of New York City.”

Bloomberg said the judges were ignoring a pressing need to address a public health crisis. AFP

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Mandela remains in a critical condition N

elson Mandela continues to show signs of improvement after two months of hospital treatment, the South African presidency said Tuesday, but gave no details of his condition after reported scares.

“Former president Nelson Mandela still remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital in Pretoria, and continues to show improvement,” it said in a statement.

The update was issued after US network CBS reported that Mandela underwent a “surgical procedure to unblock a dialysis tube” and had two scares in recent weeks.

“On one occasion Nelson Mandela was not responding to his meds [medicines], and on another his life support machine showed him in distress.”

The government refused to comment on the reports.

But since being rushed to hospital on June 8, the 95-year-old Nobel peace laureate has at time appeared to be at serious risk.

Friends and family said

IN BRIEF Anti-gay violence draws outrage Violence against gays and transsexuals has been on the rise in Haiti after a protest against same-sex marriage, a UN body reported Tuesday.

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights condemned “the recent wave of violence” which it linked “to the protest against homosexuality led by the Haitian Coalition of Religious and Moral Groups”.

There is no related legislation in the pipeline in the Caribbean nation, but many there apparently have been alarmed by laws approving same-sex marriage in other countries such as France.

US man rescued from captivity dies

Anti-apartheid leader and African National Congress member Nelson Mandela arrives to address a mass rally a few days after his release from jail, on February 25, 1990, in the conservative Afrikaaner town of Bloemfontein, where the ANC was founded. he has been breathing with the aid of a ventilator and had undergone dialysis.

President Jacob Zuma urged the public to “continue praying for Madiba,” using

Mandela’s clan name, and taking part in community projects that will take forward his work.

Mandela’s 95th birthday earlier this month was marked

in South Africa by an outpouring of charitable deeds, with many people offering 67 minutes of service for the 67 years he was in public service. AFP

Manning: the convicted spy hailed as a whistleblower BRADLEY MANNING, THE soldier convicted of espionage for the biggest leak in US history, has always insisted his sole aim was to reveal the true face of America’s wars.

The baby-faced intelligence analyst insisted during his trial that the violence he saw in Iraq drove him to hand over a trove of military reports and diplomatic cables to the anti-secrecy site WikiLeaks.

But a military judge ruled Tuesday that, while Manning did not knowingly aid Al-Qaeda, he did commit espionage, and the 25-year-old could now spend the rest of his years behind bars.

Supporters of Manning present him as a heroic whistleblower, while critics say he betrayed his uniform and his country, putting national security and the lives of fellow soldiers at risk.

The towering narratives have often seemed to overwhelm Manning himself, a skinny, bespectacled US Army private with a knack for computers who has quietly watched the proceedings.

Manning is said to have

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

Supporters of Bradley Manning continue to present him as a heroic whistleblower not traitor. Photo: SaveBradley struggled with his homosexuality while in Iraq and to have displayed suicidal tendencies during his more than 1,100 days spent in military custody, much of it in solitary confinement.

Born in Crescent, Oklahoma to an American father and a Welsh mother who later divorced, Manning had an aptitude for computers from an early age and reportedly created his first website when he was only 10 years old.

At the age of 17, when he

was living as an openly gay man, Manning got a job with a software company in Oklahoma City, only to be fired four months later.

He then migrated to computer hacking and even attended events with fellow hackers, a paradoxical prelude to the high-level security clearance he obtained when he became a military intelligence analyst.

“I am the type of person who always wants to figure out how things work. And as

an analyst, this always means I want to figure out the truth,” Manning said in his pre-trial testimony at the Fort Meade military base near Washington.

His homosexuality and gender identity issues – Manning enlisted despite the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy on gays in the military at the time – led to bullying, as they had when he was in school.

Commanders judged him ill-suited to military life and during training he was recommended for discharge. But his technical skills were perfectly suited to becoming an intelligence analyst and the decision was overturned.

Ultimately he was sent to Iraq where – appalled with what he saw in the reports he analysed – his motivation for illicitly uploading such material and passing it to WikiLeaks appears to have taken hold.

Manning ultimately leaked hundreds of thousands of frontline military reports from Iraq and Afghanistan and diplomatic cables to the WikiLeaks website founded

by Julian Assange, an antisecrecy activist. AFP

An elderly US man who was rescued earlier this month after what had been possibly years of captivity in a Texas home has died, police said Tuesday.

William Merle Greenawalt, 79, was badly malnourished when he was discovered in a converted garage with three other men who were forced to sleep on a linoleum floor and had no access to a bathroom.

Namibia forced to cut free condoms Reduced donor funding has forced the Namibian government to shrink the supply of free condoms, a government report said Tuesday, threatening the country’s fight against sexually transmitted diseases.

A ministry of health and social services study seen

by AFP shows free condom distribution has fallen from 25 million condoms five years ago to 15 million in 2011-2012.

The supply of female condoms over the same period dropped from 499,000 to 281,000.

Third British soldier dies in training A third British soldier taken ill earlier this month during a gruelling training exercise for entry into the elite SAS unit has died, the Ministry of Defence said on Tuesday.

The two other soldiers, Edward Maher, 31, and Craig Roberts, 24, died after temperatures reached 29.5C during the training exercise on July 13 in the Brecon Beacons mountain range in south Wales.

The men were members of the Territorial Army, Britain’s reservist force. AFP thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

ISLAND OUT OF CONTROL ‘Father of Phuket tourism’ slams greed, issues ‘last warning’ W

ichit na Ranong – known to many on Phuket as the Father of Phuket Tourism – has weighed into the growing debate over the industry on the island, slamming greed and delivering “a last warning” to the island that it must clean up its act.

Interviewed by a new Thailanguage magazine, Saphan Hin, Mr Wichit, whose family owns the Pearl Hotel in Phuket Town, the Indigo Pearl Resort at Nai Yang Beach, and the Toyota dealerships on the island, among other businesses, said that the lack of any real tourism planning had allowed the island to spiral “out of control”.

The result, he says, is general disorganisation, a deteriorating environment, dirty and unorganised beach areas, airport congestion, traffic jams, a negative impact on local people and other problems.

“Tourists want to come to Phuket, which has resulted in more and more businesspeople wanting to invest in Phuket, establishing hotels, restaurants and other businesses.

“But people’s greed has grown, which has resulted in their good-heartedness shrivelling and criminality growing.

“The problems have been evident for a while”, he says, “manifesting in environmental

degradation and a rising tide of criticisms from tourists, and growing bad effects on ordinary local people.

Tourism should not have a negative impact on local people.”

He warned that Phuket may no longer be counted as a world class tourism destination because of a slide in the quality of the destination.

“Tourists come to Phuket for the beach and if the beach is not attractive, there is no reason for them to come. We don’t have to try to improve any other facilities if the core product is deteriorating as the tourists won’t come anyway.” He also criticised central and local authorities for their inability to address the problems.

“Most of the governing bodies in Phuket, unfortunately, don’t understand tourism development in depth yet and there is no evidence that they have engaged any expert for advice.

“They may know tourism from the tourist’s perspective, but do not take the view of professional tourism administrators to manage the destination. This has created a concern as they have both money and authority, that may create more damage with good intention,” he argues.

“Moreover, governors

Wichit na Ranong urges tourism entrepreneurs to be leaders, not followers of others. appointed by the Central Government come for just a short period of time and move on.

“How could they solve the problems in such a time frame?

“I have heard many people say they come and they go but the problems stay.

“The old problems remain unsolved and the new ones are accumulating.

Hyatt signs up first Phuket hotel HYATT HOTELS CORPOration has announced that the group has entered into a management agreement with Kamala Bay Ventures to open a Hyatt Regency hotel in Phuket.

The hotel is near the beginning of Nakalay Rd, often referred to as Millionaires Mile, at the south end of Kamala. It was originally the site of the Kamala Bay Terrace hotel, which was badly damaged

@thephuketnews

by the 2004 Asian Tsunami.

The Indonesian owners, not having insurance, left the smashed resort unrepaired until the site was bought by Destination Properties of Bangkok, which began to redevelop it.

(At the time Destination was working hand-in-hand with Marriott.)

The 202-room hotel will be the first Hyatt-branded resort to open in Phuket. Expected to

open late this year, the Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort will join two other existing Hyattbranded hotels in Thailand, the Grand Hyatt Erawan in Bangkok and the Hyatt Regency in Hua Hin. The Phuket hotel will have more than 430 square metres of meeting facilities, three food and beverage outlets, a club lounge, fitness center, outdoor swimming pool, and spa.

“Central to fixing Phuket’s woes, he said in the interview, “is cleaning up the messiness along the island’s beaches.

“Phuket’s beaches are the

core Phuket products. There lie many shops, bars, food stalls, restaurants, sun beds, discotheques and others businesses along the beach that

make a mess out of the core product itself.

“The beaches must be clean and well organised, otherwise it is useless trying to improve or create other attractive services and facilities.”

At the end of the interview, Mr Wichit urges the next generation of business people on the island, “Be the leader and not the follower for products and services. Be creative.

“And be honest to your own profession and your guests Mr Wichit is a direct descendant of famed 19th Century Phuket Governor Kaw Sim Bee. In the 1980s, recognising that the tin industry on the island was in permanent decline, he led the drive to establish a new industry, tourism, to take its place, successfully lobbying the government to support it, and making many overseas trips to establish the island on the tourism map.

Mr Wichit is the first President of the Tourism Council of Thailand and was the founding president of the Phuket Tourist Association. He was also formerly on the board of Thai Airways International and Tourism Authority of Thailand.

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Consumers in SE Asia ‘most confident’: poll DYNAMIC GROWTH AND an expanding middle class are making Southeast Asian consumers among the most confident in the world when it comes to their economic prospects, a survey claims to show.

Indonesian consumers were the most confident globally, according to the research by polling group Nielsen, while Southeast Asian countries filled four of the top-10 rankings during the second quarter.

Indonesia, Southeast Asia’s most populous country, had an index of 124 to top the rankings, Nielsen’s Global Survey of Consumer Confidence showed, well above the world average of 94.

It was followed by the Philippines with an index of 121.

India came in third, then Thailand, Brazil, China, the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia as the economies where consumers are the most confident about the economic outlook.

Nielsen’s consumer confidence survey gauges consumers’ economic outlook as well as how confident they are about the job market, status of their personal finances and readiness to spend.

The US group said the survey polled more than 29,000 consumers with Internet access in 58 countries between May 13 and 31.

Consumer confidence levels above and below a baseline

of 100 indicate degrees of optimism or pessimism, it said.

“Overall, Southeast Asian consumers are feeling optimistic about the economic outlook than the rest of the world,” said Vishal Bali, managing director of Nielsen’s Consumer Insights business in Southeast Asia, North Asia and the Pacific.

“Minimum wages are increasing, as are foreign investments – and a growing number of consumers are entering the middle class,” he added. “This is no doubt fuelling the positive outlook we are observing.

“As the middle class population across Southeast Asia continues to grow at a rapid pace, consumer spending in these markets is reflecting their new-found wealth,” he added.

Indonesia’s economy expanded by 6.02 per cent in the first quarter, according to official data, and is likely to grow between 6.2 and 6.6 per cent this year.

The survey said people in Southeast Asia also have strong confidence about their personal finances.

Indonesians were the region’s most optimistic about their financial position, with 84 per cent of them rating it as good or excellent.

The Philippines followed with 79 per cent of those surveyed saying they were confident about their financial situation, then Thailand (69 per cent) and Malaysia (63 per cent). AFP

Already firmly established, the Pimex boat show has been staged at Royal Phuket Marina for the past several years.

Boat show signs 5-year venue deal THE PHUKET INTERNATIONAL Boat Show (Pimex) has secured its home for the future with the signing of a fiveyear host venue agreement with Royal Phuket Marina (RPM).

Show director Andy Dowden says that the organisers are laying “strong foundations for the next decade”, adding, “Over the past decade the event has seen continued growth and is the undisputed leading consumer boat show in Asia.

“We are very happy to announce the

signing of a five-year agreement with current home and official host venue going forward, Royal Phuket Marina,” he said.

Pimex 2014 will be run from January 9 to 12 with 2,500 sqm of indoor exhibition space, outdoor displays marina-side and more than 60 boats in-the-water, making it the largest show of its kind in Asia.

Gulu Lalvani, Chairman of Royal Phuket Marina, said, “We recognise the importance of Pimex to the regional marine and lifestyle industry. It is firmly

established as a key marine event in the global calendar, attracting interested buyers from all over the world each year.

“RPM and Pimex have the same goals: to help promote Phuket and the marine industry and marine leisure lifestyle, and together we have helped make Phuket the undisputed cruising capital of Asia.

“We look forward to working closely with the organisers for the next five years and beyond.”

TAT union questions slew of promotions T

ourism and Sports’ Minister Somsak Pureesrisak says it is up to the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s governor, Suraphon Svetasreni, to clarify why he approved the promotion of 25 officials at the TAT to C9-C10 government management level.

Mr Somsak was responding to questions from the media and the TAT union.

He said it was not his responsibility as he was not a member of the TAT board.

“I have no power to interfere in the board’s decision and could only intervene in the event of a very serious situation that damaged the TAT’s operations. It is up to the governor to clarify.”

TAT’s board approved the move to promote 25 officials to C9-C10 management status, 17 July, which was the biggest batch of promotions in 53 years of TAT operations. The promotions take effect from October 1.

Of the 25 promotions, four are to deputy governor and 21 to director level.

These are: • Apichart Intrarapongpan moves from administra-

tion deputy governor to policy and planning deputy governor; • Pongsathorn Kessamli moves from policy and planning deputy governor to international marketing for Asia and South Pacific; • Somrak Kumputch moves from Administration Department executive general director to Administration deputy governor; • Sugree Sithivanich moves from advertising and public relations department executive director to marketing communications deputy governor.

Earlier there were reports that suggested hundreds of TAT staff were not pleased with the 25 promotions.

TAT’s State Enterprise Employee Union (TAT U) late last week submitted a letter to the Tourism and Sports Minister requesting that the TAT board revise its decision to promote and reassign 25 officials at C9-C10 management level, to display good governance and transparency.

TAT employees at home and overseas expressed disapproval (over 500 on the TAT’s private Facebook group page).

Last Friday, close to 200 of them gathered at the TAT’s

head office on Petchaburi Road, where they wore black in protest.

The union also sent a letter to the TAT governor asking him to outline the criteria that supported his decision to approve the promotions and relocations.

“The union’s objective was to call for transparency in the agency as it stands at the helm of a fast-changing tourism industry and standards and an ethical approach should be established,” the union president Nattapong Sukkree said.

“The TAT governor should explain the reasons for these promotions because they affect the entire organisation and also morale … in the new era of management under the ‘change’ campaign launched by the TAT, if there are questions, a clear reply should be given to employees.”

A TAT source was quoted by local media as saying the board’s decision was politically motivated and it was obvious that more than half of the people promoted were not qualified for their new positions.

It is difficult to assess the veracity of so-called sources

as they, too, are politically motivated and represent the various opposing factions in the TAT, some of whom were overlooked in the promotions.

Many of the comments could be categorized as sour grapes and miss the point that is clearly evident to anyone who has bothered to study national tourist office operations worldwide.

The TAT is grossly overstaffed and in today’s world of social media and internet connectivity it could succeed in its marketing and promotions role with a fraction of the employees that it has on the payroll today.

Despite the criticism from the union, the TAT governor insists the promotions were transparent and based on ability and track record.

He declined to comment on union allegations, or the news reports that have appeared in the Thai and English language press.

Understandably so; he has just a few months left before he retires in December and hands over the reins to the deputy governor for domestic tourism, who takes over the top post. TTR Weekly

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

STARTLING SHIFT

Developers of condos ‘worst hit Leasehold can be a better deal than condos – CBRE boss by failures avid Simister, Chair- with capital gains. sales when the total package man of CBRE Thai“Leasehold can be a better of property and services is of projects’ land, has made a investment, if it offers better more attractive than owner-

D

CONDOMINIUM DEVELopers have been the worst affected by project failures, says the Agency for Real Estate Affairs (Area).

Of 18,404 housing units that had sales suspended in the first half of this year, 8,567 – 47 per cent – were condos, according to a survey by the property consultant.

“This number has yet to become a worry, as it was down by 18 per cent from 109 projects in the same period last year,” said Area president Sopon Pornchokchai.

Unit numbers and project value also dropped by 18 per cent and 19 per cent, respectively.

In terms of project value, condos accounted for B15.5 billion or 34 per cent of the value of failed projects.

The largest segment with sales suspended was at the bottom end of the condo market, with 5,122 units priced at B1-2 million baht failing to sell.

The main cause of failure, Area said, was insufficient market study.

To prevent homebuyers from being affected by failed projects, Mr Sopon suggested escrow accounts be used in transactions.

“If escrow accounts are used, the housing market will be strong and sustainable. It will benefit developers and bring equality in competition between large and small developers,” he said. Bangkok Post

Corruption growing – UTCC poll CORRUPTION REMAINS vibrant in Thailand and is not slowing, a survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) has concluded, with most respondents pointing to the government’s controversial rice pledging scheme as providing the biggest opportunities for graft.

UTTC President Sauwanee Thairungroj said 74 per cent of 2,400 respondents surveyed in the public and private sectors believe corruption grew more severe in Thailand last month compared with 63 per cent saying this last December.

Increased corruption was attributed largely to legal loopholes, a lack of political transparency and a lack of law enforcement after irregularities were uncovered. Bangkok Post @thephuketnews

claim that will startle many in the property industry: that in some cases leasehold properties are a better investment than a condominium that confers freehold land ownership on the buyer.

Asking rhetorically in a press release, “When is leasehold more valuable than freehold?” Mr Simister answered his own question, “In over 35 years in the property industry in the United Kingdom, Hong Kong and Thailand, and having worked in many Asian countries, I would have said, until very recently, never.

“However, I have to acknowledge that with the arrival of some excellent leasehold properties, the Thai property industry has recognized that a well-appointed and managed leasehold property can outprice and outperform freehold condominiums, and be preferred by buyers.”

He explained that highquality management groups such as St Regis or Amari would only consider taking on the management of a property if they can deal with a single freehold owner they trust. This would rule out condominiums, where the owners’ committee might vote to change management after a fairly short time.

For those buying homes in a leasehold-only development, management by a quality company would give confidence that they can get a good steady return on investment, along

management and/or income returns,” Mr Simister wrote.

“In Thailand, leasehold property has evolved [to the point where] freehold condominiums are not always more valuable than leasehold.”

The evolution of what he calls the “quality leasehold” has arisen due to leaseholders’ decision-making ability and the increasingly superior attitude to maintenance standards.

“The leaseholder has the ability, as the sole freehold owner, to make decisions. He can appoint and enter into a long-term contract with topquality managers.

“A top-level hotel operator, particularly where a property is a resort [that includes apartments], can maximize income returns, for income comparable with a typical juristic condominium.

“And only a single condominium leaseholder can give a quality hotel operator sufficient confidence to enter into a long-term contract for the professional and high-quality operation of the property,” he pointed out.

“Only with a long-term contractual commitment will hotel operators invest the time and resources to create an investment vehicle capable of regularly securing the maximum achievable returns.

“Largely, this is because of legal disputes in the USA and the worry that a single disruptive or litigious [condo] owner

Chairman of CBRE Thailand David Simister: Quality leasehold properties can outperform freehold condominiums. can pull down the house to the detriment of his co-owners and the manager.

“Condominium management relies on a concept of democracy. This is fair in principle but in practice it can create disputes over services and budgets, and result in a lack of clear leadership and consistent management.

“Most importantly, a juristic body in which the committee

may change annually cannot effectively enter into long-term service contracts.

“By comparison, the single lessor, who does not require any vote or approval, can enter into a long-term contract with a hotel group and can more directly and effectively ensure continuity in the operation and management of the property.”

In Phuket, he notes, “Leasehold is outperforming freehold

ship of freehold title.” One of the most successful leasehold projects this year, he said, has been Amari Residences Phuket (ARP), overlooking Patong Bay. “ARP has been achieving prices in excess of several condominiums on the west coast that have freehold titles.

“Much more interestingly, this has been one of the first projects in Phuket to show a strong level of demand from Bangkok Thai investors.”

The reason for this, he said, is “The quality, unbeatable views, the continuity of management, and sustainable regular income that comes only from good hotel management.”

He warned condo owners, “Ultimately, for long-term value preservation of any property asset, good management is essential.

“Condominiums owners need to pay more attention and collectively be more demanding of their building and juristic managers to ensure that they enjoy the price appreciation that freehold property in a prime location should merit.”

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

Dining with a difference in Phuket Town

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

Taking a stroll round the Bang Wad reservoir

08

10

TIGER’S TALE Inside Phuket’s Tiger Kingdom > page 2

Guests pose with tigers at the island’s Tiger Kingdom.

@thephuketnews

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EYE OF THE TIGER A Jody Houton examines the future of the Thai tiger Jody Houton editor3@classactmedia.co.th

People think how can they go in there and the tigers not attack and eat them? They think the animals are wild, so they can’t go in there and touch them

Clockwise from top: The entrance to Tiger Kingdom, Phuket; a visitor has her photo taken with a tiger; Tiger Kingdom employees Pim and Tony; A prowling tiger examines the enclosure; A trainer helps a tiger stay fit and healthy.

blonde Australian teenager lies outstretched on the leg of a sleeping tiger.

The girl’s mother is watching – and ooohing and ahhhing – from the safety of the exterior of the fenced off area at the newly opened Tiger Kingdom.

Every time her daughter rearranges her body for the onsite photographer to take another picture, she shrieks words of encouragement and her admiration for the beautiful, docile ‘big cats’.

Despite this, however, mother Kath watches Holly, both from Adelaide, from behind the electric fence that separates the paying guests and prowling tigers at Phuket’s latest ‘attraction’.

“I know they are hand reared and ‘trained’,” says Kath, clearly uncomfortable about using the word, “but I wouldn’t be in there with the bigger ones – maybe the cubs, but not the bigger ones – but it’s something Holly always wanted to do.”

It’s obviously something that many want to do, as despite being open for just a week when The Phuket News visited, the centre was full of tourists.

Looking out at the relatively small caged enclosure, it’s rather odd, fascinating and a little bit scary to see these huge wild animals so close to smiling and unsuspecting humans.

It’s also incredibly suspicious.

Rumours abound that certain tiger centres in Thailand drug the animals in order to make them placid, combined with allegations of unethical animal mistreatment, and cruel feeding time antics. These are suspicions that Pim, chief customer relations officer for the Chiang Mai branch of Tiger Kingdom, explains are natural, yet completely untrue.

“Many people have this idea [that animals are drugged], but it’s not true. The tigers are not drugged.”

Pim explains that the tigers’ amiable nature is down to them having been reared by

humans from a young age. Essentially, she says, they are tame.

“They’re like any domesticated animal.

People think ‘how can they go in there and the tigers not attack and try to eat them?’

They think the animals are wild, so they can’t go in there and touch them.”

In the beginning The rather Disney-fied story of Thailand’s Tiger Kingdom (the Phuket branch is technically the third) began in the early eighties.

“Our owner was given a baby tiger 30 years ago in Ratchaburi, in northeast Thailand, because its mother had been killed by hunters in the wild,” says Pim. “A villager gave it to him because he had land and money and could take care of the animal. It all started from there really. As he got more animals he needed to make money in order to get more land and care for the tigers.”

The land where that original ‘rescue centre’ stood in Ratchaburi is now a zoo, home to many wild animals. The first dedicated Tiger

Kingdom was opened in Chiang Mai in 2008 and is now home to 53 tigers, although when it first opened, it was more of a conventional type of zoo, where visitors’ contact with tigers was non-existent.

“At first, the tigers were in cages like regular zoos and it was actually some Australian visitors who asked if they could get closer to the animals, much like the trainers were doing.”

Ever since then, getting up close and personal with tigers has become part of the Thai tiger tourist experience. An experience that Ashley Fruno, senior campaigner at PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) Asia, believes is wrong.

“Most tigers in attractions like these live out their life sentence in prison-like cages, leaving these majestic and powerful creatures without any space to move and run in,” says Mr Fruno.

Although the young tigers are allowed out of their cage during the day – often to have their photos taken – there is not very much room to run around in, and trainers are always on hand, complete with bamboo sticks, thephuketnews

FEATURE 3

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to moderate tigers’ behaviour if they get too ‘wild’.

The older tigers, however, are not allowed such, albeit monitored and restricted, freedoms.

“When a tiger gets to around 2 to 3 years old they are taken and put in a separate cage, because they can’t be around other tigers. They would start fighting and want to protect their area,” explains Pim. When a tiger matures in the Tiger Kingdom therefore, his or her life is either resigned to being part of a breeding programme or kept in complete isolation in a cage for 24 hours a day for the rest of their life.

“What else can we do though?” asks Pim, “We can’t release them into the wild. The truth is there is no income and no provisions to take care of them otherwise, so we need to do this.”

Tiger Kingdom is not government funded, but it is government monitored as each tiger born either in the wild or in zoos is implanted with a chip. Tigers in Thailand belong to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, with representatives from that ministry making regular trips to both Tiger Kingdoms.

Born to be wild Pim tells The Phuket News that the most ideal situation would be to have a foreign sponsor that is able to provide financial aid to help realise the Tiger Kingdom’s ultimate aim of opening a retirement community for tigers, much like Sangduen ‘Lek’ Chailert did for elephants in Chiang Mai. As this is likely years away from becoming reality though, Pim explains they are doing the best they can.

The view that they’re making the best of a bad situation and actually helping save tigers from almost certain extinction is shared by many who visit such centres across Thailand, though not all.

Onkuri Majumdar is the South Asia regional coordinator of Freeland, a Thailand-registered NGO concerned with preserving and protecting wildlife around the world.

Mrs Onkuri believes that this view is misleading and actually quite irresponsible, “Zoo tigers do nothing to save wild tigers. Zoo tigers can never be released into the wild because – contrary to popular belief – successful hunting isn’t an instinct.

“It is a highly specialised skill which is taught by a mother to her cubs, which humans cannot do.”

She says that cubs born in captivity will never learn how to hunt because they are typically taken from their mothers at just three weeks of age.

There are certainly issues of ethics and cruelty at play at tiger centres catering to tourists. Another con@thephuketnews

sideration is the illegal trading of tigers and although there is no evidence of such activity at the Tiger Kingdom, Mrs Onkuri warns that this criminal activity happens all too often.

“Unless strictly monitored, private zoos serve as a conduit to illegally selling cubs and adults for consumption into the illegal wildlife trade.”

Thailand has more than 50 protected wildlife sanctuaries that account for nearly 10 per cent of the country’s surface area, but unscrupulous traders sometimes outnumber rangers in these parks.

Both Mr Fruno and Mrs Onkuri therefore believe that more focus should be put on combating the reasons why the trafficking and trading of tigers is allowed to continue.

“Thailand needs to enhance resources for rangers who are protecting wild tigers and investigators who are trying to stop wildlife crime syndicates,” offers Mrs Onkuri.

“They should also strictly ensure that identified wildlife trafficking syndicate heads do not receive political or official protection.

“At the least, private zoos can remind viewers that such a species does exist in the wild, and help fundraise money for wild tiger conservation projects.”

Trained and tamed The most obvious question then is, although ‘wild’ animals, such as tigers, crocodiles and elephants, can be trained to perform in shows, can they ever be truly tamed? And should they be?

Last month a trainer at a crocodile farm in Samut Prakan required 30 stitches to his face, when, as part of an act, he put his head in a crocodile’s mouth and was bitten.

Earlier this year a tiger handler was mauled and killed at the South Lakes Wild Animal Park in the United Kingdom, though it should be noted that the tiger was fully grown and not born in captivity.

The nature of its training is also a point for consideration Pim believes, “I don’t know how they train them, but we have lots of rules that the trainers have to follow.”

There have apparently been no ‘serious’ injuries or

incidents at the Tiger Kingdom, according to Head Tiger Trainer Tony, who has been with the company since it opened in 2008.

Tony, like Pim, came down from Chiang Mai to Phuket. His job is to oversee operations and train both the resident tigers (19) and trainers, eight of whom are from Chiang Mai, with 12 staff recruited in Phuket.

“Before trainers work with the tigers, they have to learn how to ‘read’ a tiger and recognise when it is angry. They will pin their ears back, hiss and want to be left alone and not be with any other tigers. This is when trainers should stay away from them,” says Tony.

“The relationship [of a tiger and its trainer] is similar to that of mahout and elephant, but it’s more about a general understanding. It’s important to make a relationship with the tiger but it needs to be across the board and with different trainers and tigers.

“Each trainer is given a small bamboo stick which is used to control the tiger. If they behave badly they will be drubbed on the nose,” Tony explains.

“This is how they are trained when they are very young. The stick is only used for bad behaviour, but they are retrained every morning before the tourists come in.”

Tony explained that it is also important to have a distinction between how the trainers and tourists interact with the animals.

“The trainers need to be in control, so they can’t hug the tigers or show too much affection. If there’s not a distinction and a tourist gets into trouble they will not be able to control the animal.”

Tony clearly loves his tigers, and is passionate and hopeful that the residential home for ‘retired’ tigers is built one day.

As it stands now, however, the future of the Thai tiger is in a precarious state. Bred in captivity or born in the wild, they risk a life where they are either caught and killed, or bred and caged.

Unless correct provisions are made by the Thai government to protect wildlife and their habitats, unless it ensures that penalties for illegal wildlife trafficking are swift, harsh and consistent, then retirement homes for tigers who have worked in the tourist trade may be the only hope that the Thai tiger has.

It’s a perilous picture – no matter which way you look at it.

4 ARTS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST AUGUST 2,2,2013

Digging deep for Phuket Jody Houton editor3@classactmedia.co.th

It chronicles the journey of the Chinese people who came in their thousands to work in the mines, and the bustling towns, including opium dens, that sprang up to cater to their needs

Clockwise from top left: A miniature mining village; life down in the mine; the Sino-Colonial inspired museum building.

L

ooking for something new to do on a rainy day in Phuket? Then head down to the Tin Mine Museum in Kathu, where you can learn all about the industry that gave the island its initial fame and fortune.

Right at the start of the exhibition you’ll find a songthaew, which although not old or anything to do with mining, does make for a good photo opportunity.

Elsewhere though there are many exhibits that do cover relevant topics, such as the ‘Room of Geology’. Much of the information here, in both Thai and English, explains the meaning of minerals.

There is also ‘Aung Mo Lao’s’ room, which displays what the interior of a 19th century Sino-Colonial house would have looked like (for a real taste, visit the Chinpracha Mansion on Krabi Rd).

Designed with a combination of traditionally Chinese and Thai decorative touches, it also houses a large collection of old coins and notes.

The main part of the museum is the ‘Type of Mining’ section, which goes into detail about all the various mining techniques used in Phuket, such as drifting, underground mining, opencast or open pit mining, gravel pumping, hydraulic and dredging.

It also chronicles the journey of the Chinese people who came in their thousands to work in the mines, and the bustling towns, including opium dens, that sprang up to cater to their needs.

Although it’s a far cry from many other

heritage museums around the world, the Tin Mine Museum is nevertheless a good excuse to get away from the island’s shopping malls, beaches and restaurants.

Admission for foreigners is B100 per adult and B50 per child, though if you bring proof of Thai residency such as a Thai driving licence you’ll get in for local price: B50

per adult and B20 per child.

The Tin Mine Museum, also known as the Phuket Mining Museum, is situated in the hills behind Loch Palm Golf Club, on the back road to the British International School, Phuket.

For further information, visit kathucity. go.th or jamie-monk.blogspot.com

thephuketnews

HEALTH 5

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

Stand tall, stand strong Kim White editor@classactmedia.com

Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, overcivilised people are beginning to find out going to the mountains is going home; that wilderness is a necessity... - John Muir

Kim White is the owner of Sala Samadhi. she offers authentic Hatha yoga instruction for private and group sessions. Contact: www. mindbodyyogasystem. com or 086 276 9174.

The opinions and advice contained in this column are those of the author only. The Phuket News is not responsible for the outcome or results of following any advice in any situation.

@thephuketnews

H

ello and welcome. This month I would like to share another lifechanging yoga asana, a pose that is often overlooked and deemed as a “bit of a time waster”.

I admit that in the past I also did not advocate the practice of this asana as much as I do now. The asana we will be practising this month is known as the tadasana or 1 mountain pose.

Unfortunately our skeletons get a little neglected while we race around the urban wilderness of our everyday lives. We stand with our weight bearing down on one leg and hip, we sit down and rest on one side, cross one leg, we carry with one shoulder, we walk too much on our toes or heels and I could go on and on but you get the picture.

We squash our spines down so much, it’s no wonder our bodies are crying out to stand tall.

When practised correctly, tadasana makes the body feel light and mind feel bright.

This asana also: Improves posture Strengthens thighs, knees and ankles Firms abdomen and buttocks Relieves sciatica Reduces flat feet Creates space within the body, allowing greater in ternal organ efficiency Improve respiratory systems, opens the chest.

Increases awareness Steadies breathing Increases strength, power, and mobility in the feet, legs, and hips Firms abdomen and buttocks Relieves sciatica Develops spinal strength and flexibility Relieves tension, aches and pains throughout the body Improves blood circulation Encourages healthy digestion Leaves you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated Expels dullness and depression Harmonises the body and mind Increases energy and enthusiasm Please follow these steps when practising tadasana and you will be standing taller in no time.

Stand with the bases of your big toes touching, spread your toes and have a firm grasp on the floor, making sure that your weight is balanced evenly on the feet. (If you have some balance issues, try standing with your feet about 3 to 5 inches apart.)

2 Activate your thigh muscles and lift the knee caps, without hardening your lower belly.

Imagine a piece of string suspending you from along your inner thighs to your groins and from there through the core of your torso, neck, and head, and out through the crown of your head. Lengthen your tailbone toward the floor and lift the pelvis toward the belly button.

Next, roll your shoulder blades together and down your back, then widen the chest. Pull your belly button back to the spine; lift the top of your chest straight toward the ceiling. Widen your collarbones. Hang your arms beside the torso. Please see photos for variations that can be practised in tadasana.

3

4

Balance the crown of your head directly over the centre of your pelvis, with the underside of your chin parallel to the floor, throat soft, and the tongue wide and flat on the floor of your mouth.

Soften your eyes. If you are confident and would like a challenge, practice tadasana with your eyes closed.

Hold this pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute, keeping your awareness on your breath pattern.

This is a great great pose to practice whenever you find yourself standing around and waiting for long periods of time. Make your trek back to the mountain!

Metta, Kim

6 ENVIRONMENT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST AUGUST 2,2,2013

Clean-up aims for seachange Jody Houton editor3@classactmedia.co.th

Above: Phuket Vice Governor Sommai Prijasilpa praised the efforts at last week’s press conference. Above right: Sifting through the trash at the end of last year’s Go Eco Phuket event.

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rofessional divers, volunteers, politicians and school children will ensure that this year’s mass ‘diving for trash’ event, Go Eco Phuket, will be bigger than ever before.

It is hoped that participants at the event, to be held on August 13 off Chalong Pier at various beaches on Phuket and surrounding islands, will be able to collect more than the 7.5 tonnes collected last year.

Speaking at a press conference last week, Phuket Vice Governor Sommai Prijasilpa said, “It’s not just a matter of how much trash will be collected, but how many people are involved and the friends’ friends who are aware of the event. So it’s also about the psychological effect.”

V/Gov Sommai added, “There’s going to be lots of children involved as well, which means all the better for the future generation.”

Around 1,000 children will be taking part in a ‘Cycling for the Environment’ event, by welcoming a group of Go Eco cyclists to Surakul stadium on Sunday, August 4.

The cyclists, who will have ridden from Sarasin Bridge in the far north of Phuket, will then join with the children to spell out the Royal Cypher in celebration of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s Birthday.

V/Gov Sommai praised and expressed the importance of both events, “Tourists come for the beauty of the island and so much of the island’s revenue is dependent on its natural beauty and splendour, so raising the awareness of environmental issues and the

diving for trash initiative on August 13 will be good for everyone on the island.”

She added that the current number of annual visitors (8 million) will likely increase to more than 12 million in coming years, which will lead to an increase in trash, therefore all interested parties need to work together to reduce waste.

Last year’s Dive for Debris event, turned out to be the biggest reef clean up event ever held in Phuket. It was attended by more than 500 professional divers and 200 volunteers who went out to remove debris from the reefs and beaches of Phuket and other surrounding islands.

One of the organisers of the event, Marc Partiti, explained what exactly will happen this year: “Registration begins at 7.30 am

on August 14 and at 8am 14 boats full of professional divers and volunteers will leave from Chalong Pier and go along different organised routes to collect as much trash as possible.”

A little after 5pm, the boats will return to Chalong where they will weigh what they have managed to collect before the waiting garbage trucks cart off the refuse.

The closing ceremony is likely to take place in the evening of August 14, in the Chalong area, although the specific time and location has not yet been set.

If you would like to get involved, email goecophuket@gmail.com. For more information, visit facebook.com/goecophuket or goecophuket.weebly.com

Pet

of the week

My name is Ma Fai, I was adopted by Teddy Ismael together with my other sibling Ma Feuang but she’s a bit shy to be photographed. I’m an African spurred tortoise or Sulcata tortoise from the southern edge of Sahara desert and the third largest species of tortoise in the world. Now I’m just a baby, 5.5 cm long, but one day when I’m an adult I might grow up to 60-90cm long and weigh 45-91 kg. I hope by that time I will not cause too many problems for my adoptive father.

Want to see your pet here? Email photos to editor1@classactmedia.co.th thephuketnews

WEIRD WORLD 7

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

THE BIG LIST The new surgical you Want to have a deep voice and wear uncomfortable shoes for a long time? An implant here, a snip there – it’s all covered by the latest trends in plastic surgery.

Chinplant: The past two years have been good (or bad) for chins – depending on how you look at it. A 71 per cent growth in chin implants in the United States means that this new trend is outpacing breast implants, liposuction, and Botox combined. The procedure takes an hour or two and involves the insertion of an implant in a small slit in the chin. For just US$3,000 (B92,000) it’s on the lower end price wise.

Feet filler: The same stuff that can go into your face can also go into the feet.

Dermal f illers are being injected into the feet of women around the world to help provide comfort while wearing high heels. The extra cushion comes at a low price and lasts up to a year. The problem? Currently it is not approved by any medical governing body and some women have ended up using crutches after the procedure.

Toe-besity: Yes this is a real thing.

Dr Oliver Zong, a New York-based plastic surgeon, told a newspaper that he started his practice ten years ago when toe reshaping procedures did not even exist. Now, he is successfully making a living off of slimming down people’s fat feet digits. The procedure costs about US$2,000 (B61,000) and swelling does not go down until about a month after surgery.

Voice deepening: You too can have a voice like Darth Vader!

Voice deepening happens in two ways: either by surgery or injection. The surgery involves the removal of a small piece of cartilage from the voice box and cannot be reversed. The second procedure, which is not permanent, involves the injection of fat tissue from another part of the body directly into the vocal chords. Either way, you’ll sound like James Earl Jones.

Earlobe lift: As you might expect, earrings eventually bring trauma to the earlobe by causing elongated holes, torn lobes. But for just US$650 (B19,000), you can have volume and strength added to your luscious lobes with an injection of dermal fillers and a small surgical procedure that removes a wedge of tissue. If the eyes are the window to the soul, the ears must be the chimney – and you need them to look nice. @thephuketnews

British diplomats reveal world of weird requests

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ritish embassies were asked if they could silence a cockerel and order an unfit husband to shape up, among other “bizarre” requests for help in the last 12 months, the Foreign Office revealed last week.

A man asked consular staff in Rome to translate a phrase for a tattoo he wanted, while another man asked the Stockholm embassy if they could check out the credentials of a woman he met online.

Diplomats in several countries were also asked where the best place to watch football was, while they were also pestered for London 2012 Olympics tickets and contact details for Beatles legend Paul McCartney’s wife Nancy Shevell.

One woman asked the Tel Aviv embassy to order her husband to get fit and eat healthily so they could have children.

A man who required hospital treatment in Cambodia when a monkey dislodged a stone that hit

him demanded help getting compensation and wanted assurance that it would not happen again.

One man asked the Montreal consulate for information to settle a bet on the colour of the British passport. Consular staff in the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur were asked if they could help pay to send a couple’s children to an international school.

In February 2011, the Foreign Office established a contact centre in Malaga on the southern Spanish coast to help cope with the volume

of non-consular enquiries received

by British missions in southern Europe.

Some 39 per cent of the 131,211 calls it has received since then have been “lifestyle enquiries”.

“Some of the enquiries we received from British nationals last year were bizarre to say the least,” said the centre’s head, Steve Jones.

“One customer contacted us to ask if we could provide the name of the watch that the Royal Navy sailors wore between the years 1942-1955.”

Consular affairs minister Mark Simmonds said: “Foreign Office staff help many thousands of British nationals facing serious difficulties around the world every year.

“It is important that people understand what we can and cannot do to support them when they are abroad.

“We are not in a position to help people make travel arrangements or social plans, but we do help those who face real problems.” AFP

Drunk Canadian swims to United States

A

Canadian looking to prove his swimming skills, and drunk, provoked an international rescue when he jumped into the Detroit River and swam to the United States, police said last week.

John Morillo, 47, told the reporters after being released from custody last week that the stunt was “very stupid” but he relishes now being able to boast to friends about his exploit.

“I was drinking, but I wasn’t really drunk,” Morillo said. “I’ve been telling people I’m going to swim across the river for years and they’re like ‘yah, yah, blah, blah, you can’t make

Swedish lawmaker bares all in social media gaffe

A

Swedish lawmaker was caught with his pants down Wednesday after f lashing his private parts in a picture meant to show off his newly-inked Liverpool football club tattoo.

A picture of former Left Party leader Lars Ohly’s tattoo – inspired by the Premier League team’s Liver Bird emblem – was deleted by the politician after his followers on the photo-sharing network

Instag ram pointed out that they could also see his penis.

“Ha, ha, I accidentally posted a picture on Instagram that showed more than intended. Now corrected,” the 56-year-old politician wrote on Twitter.

Twitter puns ranged from allegations over Ohly showing “loads of balls to admit he supports Liverpool”, to questions over whether he was really “left leaning.” AFP

it.’ So, I don’t know, last night I just decided it was the time to go.”

Morrillo reportedly managed to swim across the river separating Windsor, Ontario and Detroit, Michi-

gan and have his picture taken by curious passersbye. His neighbour back on the Canadian shore had called police when she lost sight of him in the waters.

A search was launched in the middle of the night involving Canadian police as well as both US and Canadian coast guards, three boats and a helicopter.

He was eventually found on the Canadian side of the river. AFP

8 DINING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST AUGUST 2,2,2013

A taste of things to come Claire Connell editor1@classactmedia.co.th

The first starter was a real talking point. Introduced to guests as “steak tartar with a hint of melon and water”, it was in fact made entirely of watermelon with a taste of steak – it tricked most diners

From top left, clockwise; mackerel, zucchini, tomato, cockels, radish and coriander; Alain Tabruyn and Chef Thomas Diepersloot; and the Wagyu Kobe beef.

O

n Monday night (July 29), some 30 lucky guests were served a fabulous dinner at Brasserie, which served as the introduction to a new business venture by Chef Thomas Diepersloot, from Holland, and locally-based Belgian businessman Alain Tabruyn.

Mr Tabruyn runs Brasserie in Phuket Town with wife Lin, and in around six months time he will open a new high-end restaurant next door, with Mr Diepersloot as the head chef and partner.

The restaurant will have a maximum of 20 seats, and will be at Michelin star level, Mr Tabruyn says.

On Monday night, Mr Diepersloot prepared a six course dinner to introduce diners to his unique dishes – a tentative test before opening the new restaurant.

The result was a fabulous dinner which included dishes made from crab, mackerel, sea bass and Wagyu Kobe beef marbling number nine.

The first starter was a real talking point.

Introduced to guests as “steak tartar with a hint of melon and water”, it was in fact made entirely of watermelon with a taste of steak – it tricked most diners.

Mr Diepersloot said making this “steak” tartar involves marinating the watermelon in salt water for around four to five days.

This changes the structure of the fruit, therefore creating the texture of raw meat. The watermelon is then flavoured with seasoning normally used for steak tartar.

While culinary experiments such as these have long been the norm in Europe, this is certainly a first for Phuket. Monday’s guests seemed impressed and intrigued by the new concept, and the new Rassada Road restaurant will likely contain such unique dishes created by the talented Mr Diepersloot.

The idea behind the unique food is that “when people eat it, they think it is something else,” Mr Diepersloot explains.

Originally from Holland, Mr Diepersloot has been in Phuket for around six months. At 25 he is young for an executive chef, though already has around 11 years experience working in kitchens across Europe, including

at several Michelin-starred establishments.

He says his personal style is modern light cuisine with sour and fresh flavours, and a touch of Asian.

The standout dish of the night was the excellent Wagyu Kobe beef (number nine), pumpkin polenta, mascarpone and shimeji mushroom. Mr Diepersloot says the secret to getting the beef to taste so good is to bake it on a high heat so it has a slightly crispy outside. And pumpkin, it seems.

“Not a lot of people use pumpkin, but I really like the flavour of it,” he explains.

Also awarded top marks was the sea bass dish, with nori leaves, enoki mushroom and cauliflower.

Monday’s dishes were also exceptionally well-presented – something which was praised by diners. Mr Diepersloot said he had spent the entire weekend prior planning and preparing, and while the dishes took a lot of preparation before the event, he said on the night they were relatively easy to serve.

The result of the introductory dinner?

Guests were thoroughly impressed with Mr Diepersloot’s creations and he received rounds of applause at the end of the meal.

Stay tuned for a report on the restaurant’s opening, as it will surely be a new high end dining option for Phuket’s foodies.

The event was sponsored by Black Forest Distribution and Pura Organic.

Paresa introduces elephant ‘refined’ coffee

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aresa Resort has become the first property in Phuket to offer Black Ivory Coffee, priced at B990++ for two guests.

Black Ivory Coffee is the world’s rarest and most unique coffee. It is very special because the 100 per cent Arabica beans, grown in Thailand, have been refined by an elephant.

The elephants eat and pass the beans, which are then collected, prepared and roasted. This natural process creates a very soft tea-like quality without any bitterness.

It takes 33 kg of coffee cherry (inside the bean)

to make 1 kg of Black Ivory Coffee, with only 300 kg produced for 2013.

The machine used to make the coffee was invented in 1840 in Austria, and was the traditional way to brew coffee until the end of World War II. It is recognised as the best way to brew coffee because it keeps the steam at 93 degrees Celsius, which is the ideal temperature for coffee extraction.

Paresa General Manager Scot Toon said he was impressed with the chocolate and cherry aroma, together with the subtle flavour.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM AUGUST 2, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013 FRIDAY, List your restaurant here: call 076 612 550 or email sales@classactmedia.co.th

DINING GUIDE 9

EUROPEAN

INTERNATIONAL

INDIAN

SEAFOOD

Bodega & Grill

Irish Times

Navrang Mahal

Trisara Seafood

A rustic, homely atmosphere serving North and South Indian dishes, freshly prepared by hereditary chefs and served in brass Katoris in the Royal Mughal style of bygone Emperors of India. Many mouth-watering dishes prepared exactly to your liking. Open from 12.30pm - 3pm and 6.30pm 11pm daily. Karon Sea Sand Resorts & Spa, Karon Beach. Also in Patong Soi Bangla. 076 286 464

The first truly world-class destination seafood dining experience on Phuket. A private entrance leads guests either to an outdoor, beachfront deck or to the cool, relaxed interior. The menu is a balance between local and imported seafood prepared and served in a Mediterranean way.

Lunch 12.30pm-3pm, Dinner 7pm-10.30pm (Closed Sundays). Trisara, 076 310 100

Bodega & Grill is situated on a picturesque patio by the lagoon. The restaurant serves premium char-grilled steaks and seafood from a wood-fired oven, as well as authentic homemade pastas, risottos and paellas. Bodega’s generous steaks are available in portions of up to 1.2 kilogram. Angsana Laguna Phuket, Cherngtalay; 076 324 101

The only Irish owned and managed Irish Pub in Phuket. A real Irish Pub at the heart of Phuket’s world famous nightlife. In this traditionally styled Irish pub you will find a very warm welcome from the Management and their fantastic staff. All your favourite Irish food and beverages. Jungceylon, Patong Beach; irishtimespub-phuket.com

Ceramic Kitchen Mom Tri’s Villa Royale

ITALIAN

RE KÁ TA Beach Club

Acqua

Enjoy fine dining with panoramic sea views in sensually indulgent setting. Delicious Thai and European creations are served on the open-air terrace. Mom Tri’s Villa Royale is the winner of the Wine Spectators Award of Excellence. Situated on the only road into to Kata Noi Beach.

Reservations recommended. momtriphuket .com; 076 333 568

Enjoy a unique dining and shopping experience at Ceramic Kitchen. We offer a wide range of beverages as well as the chance to shop for ceramic after your lunch or dinner, while every Sunday we do a traditional roast all day. We’re also experts for special events, wedding ceremonies, staff parties, birthday parties and more.

185/5 Moo 7, Srisoonthorn Rd., T. Srisoonthorn, Thalang district. 076 272151-2, 082 153 3163

FRENCH

Connoisseurs of fine cuisine can revel in Acqua’s experiential concept. The Acqua restaurant experience promises to deliver only the freshest of ingredients, sourced from only the best producers both local and international. Taste explosions from the portfolio of Chef Alessandro Frau, of both traditional & contemporary are offered. Kalim Bay-Patong, 076 618 127

The beachfront restaurant off­ers modern innovative cuisine with a strong focus on seafood.

In the evening RE KÁ TA transforms with Kata’s magical sunsets and cool sounds along with the delicious drinks and tapas, right on the beach.

Open daily 6.30am-11pm; Kata Beach (next to Boathouse); info@rekataphuket.com, rekata phuket.com, 076 330 421

Baan Kalim Restaurant & Seafood KEE Sky Lounge

DaVinci

Serving up an eclectic mix of tasty East-meetsWest tapas, and a colourful new vibe on the rooftop. Enjoy trendy fusion finger food influenced by cooking styles from around the world alongside your main course, or simply relax with Eurasian tapas and sip sundowners from a selection of creative cocktails. Open 5.30pmmidnight, KEE Resort & Spa, 076 335 888

Great food and people you know! Authentic Italian cuisine in Nai Harn area. Three different dining areas, cocktail lounge, children’s play area, Delicatessen, live music....DaVinci is not just a meal, it is an experience of taste, atmosphere and more. Restaurant open daily 5pm-11.30pm; Deli open 11am-6pm; Sunday close; Naiharn 076 289 574. davinciphuket.com

Weaves Restaurant

Diavolo

La Boucherie

La Boucherie is a French steakhouse located on Soi Sansabai in Patong, next to Jungceylon and just a short walk from Bangla road. You’ll find a varied menu of wonderful and reasonably priced food that includes perfectly cooked steaks and dishes from France, all with friendly and efficient service that guarantees you a very pleasant and satisfying experience. Open daily 11am-5am. 076 344 581. laboucherie-asia.com

THAI Baan Vijitt Restaurant

Breeze Restaurant

Phuket’s most exciting new restaurant is situated on the waterfront at Cape Yamu. Chef Cheryl Johnson is providing diners with her innovative modern French interpretations of local ingredients. Open from Tuesday to Saturday for dinner, and from Wednesday to Saturday for lunch. Our menus change frequently. Cape Yamu, Paklok, 081 271 2320

Watch the evening sunlit ocean in the lavish and contemporary ambient atmosphere that is the Weaves restaurant. With its intimate low lit private dining, Weaves serves a variety of delectable Asian and International fusion cuisine, rich enticing desserts and tropical blended refreshments. Manathai Resort Phuket, Surin Beach, 076 270 900

A menu of modern Mediterranean influences created by Chef Ryan to tantalize the senses in a modern ambience. Offering everything from fresh seafood pastas to simple good pizzas. An impressive selection of well priced beverages and stunning sea views complete the experience. Open daily for lunch or dinner. Paresa Resort, Kamala Beach; 076 302 000

The Bistro Restaurant

JAPANESE

Tre by DoublePool Villas

An array of culinary experiences is offered to tempt and intrigue in Tre - the exclusive contemporary French Vietnamese restaurant set among the superb surroundings of the DoublePool Villas. Tre’s signatures dishes include scallops and green apples and tartar with pan-fried foie gras. Banyan Tree Phuket, Cherngtalay; banyantree.com @thephuketnews

Start your evening with delicious food and fine wine. Pick the perfect spot to take in stunning views of Patong bay, as the evening breeze surrounds you. Relax and enjoy live music to make your evening into that truly wonderful and unforgettable dining experience. Open daily 11am-Midnight. Patong; baankalim.com; baankalimrestaurant@hotmail.com, 076 618 125

A half-century old Sino-Portuguese style house at The Vijitt Resort Phuket offers a unique authentic experience of Thai cuisine with a focus on regional specialties. Thai Select Premium Award certifies the quality and standard of product and service here. The Vijitt Resort Phuket, Rawai; fb@vijittresort.com, 076 363 600

Talung Thai Tamarind Restaurant

Find all the Italian traditions in one location, and savor and experience the real Mama style dishes serving only the traditional taste of Italia.

The Bistro is at Impiana Resort Patong Phuket.

Happy Hours 50 per cent off for selected beverages, soft drinks, juices from 3pm-5pm & 10pm11pm daily. Open 3pm-12am. Impiana Resort Patong Phuket, Patong Beach, 076 340 138.

To complement an already distinctive cuisine, Tamarind is bringing to the island high quality authentic Japanese cuisine, courtesy of Master Chef Shiraishi. Gracing our Japanese menu will be fresh sushi, sashimi, healthy salads, yakitori and tempura and much more. Tamarind is your ultimate destination to savour the best Japanese cuisine in Phuket. Cherngtalay; banyantree.com

The restaurant has a stunning sunset location, offering views of the Andaman Sea. The menu of southern Thai specialties and true local dishes, are not seen on many other restaurant menus in Phuket. Chill with a cocktail from our award wining mixologist at sunset and then relax with authentic Thai cuisine. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Paresa Resort, Kamala; 076 302 000

10 EXPLORE

JAMIE’S PHUKET Jamie Monk editor@classactmedia.co.th

Clockwise from top: the road twists and turns around the reservoir; it takes around an hour to walk the 6.5km circular route; ome of the roadside shrines; sun rises over the dam; wild banana trees.

Read the original version at jamie-monk.blogspot. com. Jamie works at liveaboard dive specialists Sunrise Divers in Karon, 084 626 4646, sunrisedivers.com.

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Dam, it’s time to exercise

ang Wad reservoir is Phuket’s largest source of fresh water, a large artificial lake in the hills in the Kathu area of Phuket, not far from Phuket Town and only a short drive from my house.

The dam is about 800 metres long and there’s a small road winding for a total of 6.5 km around the reservoir. We’ve been coming up here for 10 years, normally just for a little walk, some fresh air and exercise. The kids ride bikes along the dam, and we buy some food from the stalls that are there on weekend evenings.

We’ve driven around the reservoir a few times, it’s a lovely jungly road, but until last month I’d never tried to walk or run around it. With the arrival of another birthday, I decided it was time to try and get more healthy. I’ve spent too much time sitting at a computer and am about 20 kg, maybe 25 kg, bigger than when I arrived in Phuket back in 1999.

After a few days walking up and down the dam, only a few kilometres, I took the plunge and headed off around the reservoir on the 6.5 km loop. Not running, just walking.

It’s best to start early or it’s too hot (and I’ll be late for work). In the mornings there are quite a few people exercising, walking or running or cycling around the road.

There are more people in the early evening, but since I normally don’t stop work at the dive shop until 6pm, the morning is when I am able to get there.

And the reservoir really looks great in the morning light. It’s a side of Phuket people maybe don’t know exists. A big lake? Hills?

www.phunanaphuket.com www.phunana.com

e-mail: info@phunanaphuket.com,

FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST AUGUST 2,2,2013

Tel: +66 (0)76 226 673-4

Sometimes I walk clockwise, sometimes anti-clockwise (that’s counter clockwise for Americans). I throw in some short bursts of running too, and got some new Reeboks just last week.

The aim will be to actually run 6.5 km eventually. Doesn’t sound like much of a challenge, but it’s going to need

some work. I signed up for an app called Strava to “track my progress”.

No rush though, I’m not aiming to be Phuket’s biggest loser.

The road twists and turns around the reservoir, and there is very little vehicular traffic. On an average walk I see maybe a handful of mopeds, a couple of pick up trucks, and the cyclists, joggers and walkers.

At the moment it takes me around an hour to walk around the reservoir.

A bit faster if there is some jogging involved. Fastest time about 55 minutes. Sounds a bit slow, but from small acorns grow the mighty oak! And a one hour fast walk is a good way to burn fat, and sweat out a few poisons like the beverages I’m drinking as I write this now!

Seems a shame to run, it’s nice to walk and enjoy the jungle and some great views across the water in the early morning light. Yes, this beautiful scene is in Phuket! Remember that Phuket has some pretty big hills, up to about 1,700 feet high.

I’ve done a few hikes in the past, such as a little ramble up to the Big thephuketnews

EXPLORE 11

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

PHUKET MUSEUMS Chinpracha House

This elegant colonial-style mansion was completed in 1907 by wealthy Chinese immigrant Tan Ma Siang.

Chinpracha House is one of the most integral ancient remains on the island.

Old photographs, Italian floor tiles, imported furniture from China and old utensils are well-maintained in the house’s interior.

98 Krabi Rd, Phuket Town, 076 211 281. Open daily 8am4pm. B100.

Kathu Mining Museum

Built according to colonial architecture, imitating a mansion of a tin miner, the museum shows the origins of Phuket’s culture and history especially from the mining era.

Several indoor exhibition rooms display different themes such as Phuket architecture, mining, Thai - Chinese way of life, Chinese immigrant s’ life, the Baba’s marriage and the solar system.

The outdoor exhibition displays equipment including a dredge and hydraulic mining gear.

Muang Tor Sung Rd (behind Loch Palm Golf Club), Kathu, 088 766 0962. Open daily 9am4pm. B50 for Thais, B100 for foreigners, children half-price.

Buddha, and a much harder one up to the top of Phuket’s highest hill. It’s not just beaches here in Phuket, which was part of the point of starting my blog back in 2006.

There are a lot of little interesting things to see on the way round the road. There are little rubber plantations, quite a few small houses, and I’ve seen one area with pineapples growing too.

If you’re walking and not rushing too much, the details stand out. Roadside shrines and bananas.

And jungle. Most of Phuket is green.

It’s really nice there. A totally different side of Phuket, away from the tourism, beaches, and nightlife. I’m very happy that Bang Wad reservoir is so close to our house!

It was the hope when starting this blog that a few people might want to visit some of the lesser known, and certainly less touristy parts of Phuket.

So maybe see you 7am at the reservoir sometime!

Philatelic Museum

The museum is in the old preserved Post Office, housing old equipment such as telegraph tickers, telephones, parcel-weighing machines and collections of Thai stamps issued since 1951.There are also a small library and a souvenir room.

Phuket Post Office, Montri Rd, Phuket Town, 076 224 883. Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-4.30pm. Sat 9am12pm. Free entrance.

Seashell Museum

Over 2,000 species of sea shells that were collected by the Patamak-

anthin family are now displayed in the museum.

The collection includes fossils dating back 380 million years, rare golden pearls, giant clams and left-handed Noble Volute shells.

2/2 Moo 2, Viset Rd, Rawai, 076 613 666; www.phuketsea shell. com. Open daily 8.30am-5.30pm.

B100 for Thais, B200 for foreigners, children half-price.

Thai Hua School Museum

The museum is in what used to be the main Chinese-language school, built in 1934. Classrooms inside were renovated as exhibition rooms, displaying Phuket Thai-Chinese culture and tradition of the past and present.

28 Krabi Rd, Phuket Town, 076 211 224; www.thaihua museum.com. Open daily 9am-5pm.

B50 for Thai, B200 for foreigners, add extra fee for photograph.

Thalang National Museum

The museum focuses on the history and archaeology of Phuket and nearby provinces. Archaeological finds such as ancient statues, pre-historic beads and tools are on view here.

On 4027 Road (east of the Heroines monument), Thalang, 076 379 895. Open daily except public holiday 9am-4pm. B20 for Thai, B100 for foreigners.

Thavorn Hotel Lobby Museum

Located in the walkway from the lobby to the dining room of the Thavorn Hotel, this small museum corner shows old photographs, posters, ornaments, utensils and mining tools from the Phuket’s mining era and World War II, collected by the owner of the hotel.

74 Rassada Road, Phuket Town, 076 211 333. Open daily 8am-5pm. B30.

THE GREAT SILKAIR SALES TAKES FLIGHT All in return fares to Singapore from

5,150

THB

*

Free Shopping Vouchers worth SGD20 at Changi Airport

Transiting passengers on SilkAir and Singapore Airlines flights are entitled to redeem SGD20 worth of Changi Dollar Vouchers (CDV). CDV allows for one time use at all retail, food and service outlets in the transit and public areas of Changi Airport. CDV is also valid for one time access to the Ambassador Transit Lounge at Terminals 02 and 03. Terms and conditions apply.

More journeys to treasure at silkair.com Scan the QR code to discover other great fares.

facebook.com/SilkAir

Fares quoted are for return trip on Economy Class per person, for flights originating out of Phuket only, Advertised fares are inclusive of associated taxes and surcharges only. Fare quoted are subject to change due to currency fluctuation and exclude agents’ service fee. Bookings to be made online via silkair.com or through authorised SilkAir agents from 19 July to 31 August 2013 for travel between 23 July to 30 September 2013. Subject to seat availability. Tickets are strictly non - refundable, and change of flight, date or passenger name is not permitted. *Minimum 2 to go, valid on MI749, MI751, MI757, MI754 and MI756 only. Advance purchase 3 days for V class and 7 days for T class. Other terms and conditions apply. CDVs are redeemable at all information counters in the transit areas in Changi Airport. Electronic ticket and boarding pass of Singapore bound flight should be presented for collection of CDVs. Eligible tickets for CDVs redemptions should be issue and travel from July 2013 to March 2014.

@thephuketnews

12 TECHNOLOGY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST AUGUST 2,2,2013

IN BRIEF Game release date announced for F1

The highly popular F1 motoracing game will be released on October 4 for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC. The game will have a few tweaks including updated rules, tyre changes, and remodelled handling of the steering. Gamers who purchase the Classic Edition of the title will receive two content bundles with additional tracks such as Estoril and Imora for free.

The bundles will be available for purchase for those who buy the standard edition of the game.

Wii U no longer sold at UK supermarket

The United Kingdom’s second biggest supermarket retailer, Asda, will no longer stock Nintendo’s Wii U console.

The company said it will continue to sell Wii U titles and accessories as well as have the console for purchase in their online store. The reason, according to reports, is to make room for more successful hardware such as Nintendo’s 3DS hand-held gaming device.

“Asda will stock [Wii U] games on a title-bytitle merit basis as they come along through Asda Direct [online shop],” said an Asda spokesperson.

Pro Evolution to be released in September

The developers of the highly successful Pro Evolution/Winning Eleven franchise announced that they will release the 2014 version of the title in late September for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

The game will use the same gaming engine used for the upcoming Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain title. Other key improvements includes TruBall Tech, Motion Animation Stability System, and Team Core.

Pokemon Stadium BLAST FROM THE PAST

Millions love world’s D cheapest computer

Jean-Pierre Mestanza editor@classactmedia.co.th

I

t’s only a single circuit board the size of a credit card with no screen or keyboard, but the world’s cheapest computer, costing just US$25 (B750), has astonished its British creators by selling almost 1.5 million units in 18 months.

The Raspberry Pi is now powering robots in Japan, warehouse doors in Malawi, photographing astral bodies from the United States, and helping to dodge censorship in China.

“We’re closing in on one and a half million [sales] for something that we thought would sell a thousand,” said Eben Upton, executive director of the Raspberry Pi Foundation.

The device, which runs the open-source Linux operating system, was designed as an educational tool for children to learn coding.

But its potential for almost infinite tinkering and customisation has fired up the imaginations of hobbyists and inventors around the world.

Tokyo inventor Shota Ishiwatari has created a small humanoid robot run by a Pi, which can tell you the weather, manage your diary and even make coffee.

“I wanted to create something by using a 3D printer and the Raspberry Pi – two cool items,” he told reporters.

Upton and his colleagues first thought of creating a cheap computer suited to programming when they were teaching computer science at Cambridge University several years ago.

By 2012, the Pi was ready to launch. Demand for the device, assembled in Wales, was so high that the websites of its distributors crashed.

User groups called Raspberry Jams now meet monthly in cities from Manchester to Singapore to share ideas.

A Raspberry Jam brought together the team behind a Pi camera that will photograph rhinos and other endangered animals in east Africa, generating data on their habits and on poaching.

The Instant Wild system,

backed by the Zoological Society of London, already operates in several countries, beaming images via satellite to park rangers and to an app that crowdsources identifications of animals.

By replacing expensive purpose-built equipment, Instant Wild hopes to vastly expand its work. A grid of 100 Pi cameras will be set up in 2015 on a Kenyan ranch, while another Pi will make its way to Antarctica to record penguin behaviour.

The Raspberry Pi Foundation is nonprofit and the design is freely available.

The makers are working on software to make the Pi more accessible for children, and Upton remains intent on improving computer education as they are in talks with the British government to implement a new IT curriculum.

“The definition of computing is being reworked to be less about PowerPoint and more about computer programming – the useful stuff. The real stuff,” he said.

AFP

Chromecast to improve your living room

J

ust over a week old, Google’s streaming media stick, the Chromecast, is already creating lots of buzz with more companies announcing support for the new technology.

The Chromecast is a small USB stick that can plug into any TV and is able to play videos wirelessly from a smartphone, tablet, and PC. The device rivals Apple TV in almost every aspect, including

its much smaller size, easy setup, and cheap price at only US$35 (B1,050).

Initially only supported by Netflix and Google-owned YouTube, both Vimeo and Redbox Instant are creating their own

Chromecast apps that will allow users to play media on larger screens.

The initial release of the device was so overwhelming that Google had to cancel its free three-month Netflix service promotion.

Other apps currently on the Chromecast include Pandora’s streaming music service, Revision3 internet television, Google Play Music, and AOL, with more companies expected to sign on within the next few months.

TOP APPS THIS WEEK

TOP CONSOLE GAMES THIS WEEK 1

Minecraft: Xbox 360 Edition

Xbox 360

6

Fifa 13

Xbox 360, PS3, VITA, Wii

1

Ionage (Game)

Android

2

Pikmin 3

Wii U

7

Far Cry 3 (18+)

PS3, Xbox 360, PC

2

Sky Tourist (Game)

iOS

3

The Last of Us (18+)

PS3

8

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (18+)

Xbox 360, PC, PS3

3

djay2 (Music)

iOS

4

Animal Crossing: New Leaf

3DS

9

Tomb Raider (18+)

Xbox 360, PS3, PC

4

WolframIAlpha (Search)

iOS, Android

5

Mario and Luigi: Dream Team Bros

3DS

10 Lego Batman 2: DC Super Heroes

Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, DS

5

Textmaker (Notes)

iOS, Android

o you remember Pokemon Stadium?

Released in 1999 exclusively for the Nintendo 64, this game was, for the most part, a glorified battle-only version of the Pokemon video games for the Game Boy. Users could challenge trainers and gym leaders all the way to the championship battle. Once the gamer defeated the Gym Leader Castle, the final battle against Mewtwo was unlocked.

The stor yline was nothing groundbreaking and the gameplay was pretty simple at best. But the game was released at the peak of Pokemonfanaticism worldwide, when anything Pokemonrelated was guaranteed to be a smash hit.

To its credit, Pokemon Stadium was actually a very well-made, G-rated fighting game.

Words could not express many gamers’ delight at the chance of unlocking Mewtwo, the most powerful Pokemon of them all, and at the time one of the biggest fictional superstars on the planet.

An innovative feature of the game was the ability to transfer all of your Pokemon characters from the handheld Game Boy device to the Nintendo 64 console. It was one of the first, and possibly only, times when a handheld game and a console version became so inextricably linked to one another.

While it did not win ‘Game of the Year’ awards due to its shortcomings, Pokemon Stadium received positive reviews from both critics and gamers alike. Nintendo Power in particular gave the title an 8.8 out of 10 rating.

The game spawned a sequel one year later that did not garner anywhere near the same acclaim – the craze was over.

Do you have a Blast from the Past? Let us know at editor@ classactmedia.co.th thephuketnews

FILM 13

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

IN BRIEF

A Beverly Hills Cop movie remake?

The Wolverine

Logan’s run over

FILM REVIEW

Unforgivably, the psychological exploration of how he deals with the possibility of losing his most important weapon, his healing powers, becomes hampered by convenience

DIRECTOR: James Mangold STARRING: Hugh Jackman Hiroyuki Sanada Tao Okamoto Rila Fukushima RUNS: 126 minutes

S

ave a fight atop a bullet train, The Wolverine is forgettable as an action flick. The problem is, with one of the most famous comic book characters ever to play with, it could have been so much more.

The Wolverine tells the story of how our favourite X-Men (X-Man?) saves the life of a Japanese officer on the day in 1945 when the Americans drop the atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan.

Years later, a series of events, in which the officer wants to “repay” Wolverine for saving his life, take place. A few twists later, you start pondering – could this movie have been done better? Much better?

Considering the US$100 million (B3.1 billion) budget and the potential for an exploration on Japanese-cinema influences that the script allows, the answer is a resounding ‘yes’.

That said, the few moments of interesting, drama-filled pacing and action sequences were enough to keep the audiences, for the most part, in their seats – even though it was a challenge for this reviewer.

The box-office friendly middle ground the movie takes – that of vanilla action, comical drama, and just-good-enough acting – reminds viewers of why certain comic book movies work and others do not.

In short, The Wolverine is all sizzle but no steak. A faux-cool backstory that strayed away from the tone and essence of the source material and makes no effort to improve on the plot – other than the twists.

Yes, we see Wolverine fall in love (again).

Seeing him torn up about what he did to Jean Grey in the last X-Men film is necessary and gives nice continuity to the Marvel film universe. Yet, given the raw emotion of the character, audiences should be pounded over the head with Wolverine’s guilt, not just given a cursory wave of acknowledgment that Grey’s

SFX Coliseum Phuket (Central Festival) Despicable Me 2 (T/3D) Pacfic Rim (E) Pacific Rim (T) Red 2 (E) Red 2 (T) Turbo (E) The Wolverine (E/3D) The Wolverine (E/G) The Wolverine (T)

@thephuketnews

11:50, 14:00, 18:50 16:10, 21:10 11:30, 14:10, 17:00, 19:40, 22:20 17:00, 22:00 12:00, 14:30, 19:30 13:40, 19:00 11:40, 14:20, 17:00, 19:40, 22:20 13:00, 15:40, 18:20, 21:00 11:00, 12:20, 15:00, 16:20, 17:40, 20:20, 21:40

After a pilot episode of the Beverly Hills Cop TV series failed earlier this year, studio executives at Paramount decided it might be better to continue with a movie instead. The studio has signed on Eddie Murphy to reprise his role as Axel Foley, the wise-cracking and street-smart Detroit cop that hilariously arrests criminals in Beverly Hills, California.

Armstrong story coming to the big screen

The life of disgraced American cyclist Lance Armstrong, whose seven Tour de France titles were stricken from the records books amid a doping scandal, will see the big screen several times within the next few years. Sony Pictures Classics is set to release their documentary, The Armstrong Lie, in late 2013, Ben Foster (Alpha Dog, X-Men) signed on to play Armstrong in an upcoming biopic penned by Trainspotting’s John Hodge.

The film will focus on his career from his cancer ordeal to the doping scandal.

Johnny Depp mulls retirement

death came at the hands of the ‘clawed one’.

Then, unforgivably, the psychological exploration of how he deals with the possibility of losing arguably his most important weapon, his healing powers, becomes hampered by convenience.

Yes, he loses his recovery ability, but it still works when it matters and (spoiler alert) he gets it back later. For someone who has been immortal since the franchise’s inception, The Wolverine could certainly have done more to explore his ability to cope without his ability to regenerate.

In creating a primary villain out of a tertiary comic book character in Viper, director James Mangold had a chance to really dive into the potential of having a strong evil-female and possibly even create correlations to Jean Grey as a villainous Phoenix. Instead, the story creates a female villain that is flimsy, in a slinky dress, and has no depth.

In sum, The Wolverine is certainly not the worst comic book movie ever made (hello Batman & Robin), but a pandering to the boxoffice general public means most fanboys will leave the theatre disappointed.

SFC Jungceylon Phuket (Patong)

Despicable Me 2 (E/3D) The Lone Ranger (E) Pacific Rim (E) Red 2 (E) Turbo (E/3D) The Wolverine (E) World War Z (E)

Global film icon Johnny Depp is reportedly mulling over the possibility of retiring from acting. Depp, whose film The Lone Ranger is currently in theatres in the United States, spoke to both Rolling Stone magazine and BBC Breakfast about possible retirement.

The star said he recently noticed that he says more dialogue written by others than his own personal utterances. “You start thinking about that as kind of an insane option for a human being,” he told Rolling Stone. The actor did not reveal what he might pursue in retirement.

US BOX OFFICE TOP 10 Film

Weekend gross

Gross

1

The Wolverine

$55M

$55M

2

The Conjuring

$22.1M

$83.9M

3

Despicable Me 2

$16M

$307M

4

Turbo

$13.3M

$56.2M

5

Grown Ups 2

$11.5M

$102M

6

Red 2

$9.4M

$35.1M

7

Pacific Rim

$7.54M

$84.2M

8

The Heat

$6.85M

$141M

9

R.I.P.D.

$5.86M

$24.6M

$4.59M

$6.27M

10 Fruitvale Station

12:00, 14:10, 19:20 16:20, 21:30 12:20, 15:20, 18:30, 21:30 12:15, 14:45, 17:15, 19:45, 22:15 12:50, 15:00, 19:40 11:50, 14:10, 16:50, 19:30, 22:05 17:10, 21:50.

As some movies and movie times change every Thursday morning, after The Phuket News has gone to press, the accuracy of the following information cannot be guaranteed.

For up-to-date information, visit sfcinemacity.com, or call the cinemas directly: SFX Coliseum Phuket 076-209000 and SFC Jungceylon Phuket 076-600-555.

14 ENTERTAINMENT

Two new Twinpalms’ venues for Surin beach

T

wo new Twinpalms’ venues, Bimi Beach Club and Bongo Rum Bar, are scheduled to open in late August on the Surin beachfront next to Catch Beach Club.

A press release by Twinpalms says Bimi will become “Phuket’s only all day party beach club,” and will “give party-goers a stylish yet stripped-down spot to mingle, dance and set free their island spirit along the dazzling shores of Surin.” The venue will be open from 10am to 10pm, and will feature local and visiting DJs. Twinpalms says the Bimi menu was inspired by the “dynamism of the sea” and features light beach food, both Thai and international, including nicoise salad, fresh sandwiches, wood-fired pizza, chicken satay and tom yum goong, plus dessert such as apple tarte tatin or mango and sticky rice.

Meanwhile, Bongo Rum Bar will be a “casual and cosy” venue, where guests can listen to reggae and other tunes. The venue will be open from 10am until late.

For more details visit the Facebook pages, facebook.com/ bongorumbar and facebook.com/ bimibeachclub

WEEKDAYS Breakfast with Sam & Kirsty

7am-11am

The Power Hour

11am-12pm

Lifestyle with Steve Johnston

12pm-3pm

Drive with Jason Wilder

3pm-7pm

Non Stop Music

7pm-7am

SATURDAYS What’s On @ The Weekend

9am-12pm

Phuket News Radio

12pm-1pm

Box Of Neutrals

1pm-2pm

Going Green

2pm–4pm

Best of Breakfast with Sam and Kirsty

4pm–6pm

Asian Pop 40

6pm-9pm

Saturday Night Fever

9pm-midnight

SUNDAYS Non Stop Music

12am-9am

Asian Pop 40 (repeat)

9am-12pm

Weekend Brunch

12pm-3pm

Phuket News Radio

3pm-4pm

Mellow Moments with Andy Saunders

4pm-6pm

Sunday Night Chill

6pm-9pm

Non Stop Music

9pm-7am

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST AUGUST 2,2,2013

Asia Pop 40 comes to the island’s airwaves

A

sia Pop 40 is the first regional weekly chart countdown radio show produced in Asia specifically for Asian radio, and will be aired on Phuket’s Live 89.5 on Saturdays (6pm to 9pm) and Sundays (9am to noon).

Each week Asia Pop 40 counts down the most popular downloads on iTunes across Asia, showcasing iTunes charts from multiple markets to produce a pan-regional radio programme.

Asia Pop 40’s English version is hosted each week by Asia’s own Dom Lau. Dom is one of the most recognised personalities in Asian media thanks to his work as anchor for E! News Asia.

Dom established his music credentials as a VJ for five years on FOX International Channel’s music network, Channel [V].

Dom has reported on-location including at various film premieres and live events such as concerts and fashion shows. He broadcast “live” from the Red Carpet at the Academy Awards in Hollywood and has interviewed over 50 A-list celebrities from film, television, music and fashion.

Asia Pop 40 is supported by a multifaceted, multilingual website, www.

H

ey! Want to meet the team? Well Live 89.5 will be at the Laguna Summer Family Festival for an outside broadcast this Saturday (August 10).

Make sure you come on over and say hi, as well as getting the chance to win some amazing prizes.

The phrase ‘Call us now on 076 612 895’ will be familiar to many of you, but did you know that this is the direct number to get through to the presenter live on air?

This is very useful if you spot an accident on the roads of Phuket. So if you can, please help us let others know to avoid those trouble spots – when it is safe to do so of course.

Make sure you also listen on Saturday mornings from 9am to ‘What’s Happening @ The Weekend’. This is the show that gives you the lowdown of things to do on both Saturday and Sunday.

We hope you are enjoying our exclusive ‘Asia Pop 40’, (see above) which airs twice over the weekend, at 6pm on Saturday night and repeated on a Sunday morning at 9am.

Asia Pop 40 English host, Dom Lau, and the Mandarin host Max Lim. The show is on Phuket’s Live 89.5. asiapop40.com, featuring the chart, artist interviews, celebrity gossip,social media plug-ins and links to the iTunes store.

EON’s Executive Producer Rob Graham said, “the Asia Pop 40 chart will become the main reference source for what’s hot in Asian music for the world’s music media. And because AP40 is made in Asia for Asia, this makes

the Asia Pop 40 chart truly relevant for Asian audiences by being Asia’s first ever official regional chart.”

Asia Pop 40 is three hours in length and apart from showcasing the latest music, it will also feature latest movie reviews, albums reviews, artist interviews and competitions.

For more information, visit asiapop40.com

K

irsty interviews one of the organisers of the forthcoming reef clean-up.

Why do we need to organise these reef clean-ups and who is involved.

Kirsty finds out.

We also have all the fun from the Lions Club of Patong’s Go Kart challenge.

A great report and a bonus that the team from Class Act Media actually won, by 1 point from the Kata Rocks team. A great fun day and raising money for a worthy local charity.

A report last week in The Phuket News said that this wet season was going to be one of the worst for dengue fever. Are you afraid of contracting the disease? Have you already had it? What are you doing to avoid getting it? We asked you and report your comments.

As usual Sash has a report on upcoming events and Tim Newton has the latest perspective on the local real estate market with the Phuket Property programme.

Of course, you can watch Phuket News TV anywhere, anytime, by going online to thephuketnews.com and clicking TV. All our programmes are available to watch in high definition.

thephuketnews

ISLAND SCENE 15

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

Front row from left: Thanet Triwut, the Director of PIC Phuket Co Ltd; Thanusak Puedej, the President of the Phuket Real Estate Association; and Dr Pairote Sukjan, President of Real Estate Sales and Marketing Association of Thailand.

Thanet Triwut, the Director of PIC Phuket Co Ltd.

HOT ITEMS ON DISPLAY Some 80 companies took booths for the annual Architect & Engineering Exhibition 2013, which was held from July 25 to 28 on the second floor of the Royal Phuket City Hotel. The show featured construction tools and materials, architectural design, and décor items.

A model from the Royal Ceramic Industry Public Company Ltd.

Three Touch Asia Pacific Sales Executive Supanab “Pui” Rakthada (far right) and her team.

CONNEXT CONDO LAUNCH Swedish-Thai singing sensation and Phuket local Anthony “Guy” Thoong delighted fans at the Connext Condo launch party on Friday night (July 26), kicking off the three-day opening event and pre-sales promotional period with a mini concert. Phuket hip-hop band South Side with “Freddy V” and “2P”, and celebrity socialite “Poy” Treechada, former Miss Tiffany and Miss International Queen, performed on the weekend.

Anthony “Guy” Thoong performed an eclectic mix of Thai and western songs for the Connext Condo launch party. @thephuketnews

Anthony “Guy” Thoong with Phuket Thanee Real Estate president Tawat Teowattankul and the Connext Condo team.

16 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST AUGUST 2,2,2013

WINNING WAYS Class Act Media, parent company of The Phuket News, Live 89.5 and Phuket News TV, took out the grand prize at the Lions Go-Karts Team Championships charity event, held on Sunday (July 28) in Chalong. All proceeds from the event (each participating team had to pay B6,000) will be donated to Patong Beach Lions Club’s Eyesight Improvement Programme at three local schools.

The winning team from Class Act Media. From left, Jason Wilder, Kirsty Meyer, Jody Houton, Sam Clarke, Sash Steffen and Alice Na Takuatung.

Chantal Fernandes from Kata Rocks.

Photo: Teddy Ismael

The team from Kata Rocks came second in the competition.

Photo: Teddy Ismael

PARTYING TO THE BEAT Photo: Teddy Ismael

The Phuket Drum Circle held its first anniversary event at Karon Beach on Sunday (July 28). The group meets every Sunday from 4.30pm at the beach. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

ISLAND SCENE 17

ROYAL OCCASION FOR PHUKETIANS HRH Princess Sirindhorn arrived in Phuket on July 28 for a full calendar of official events on the island. From the airport she went straight to the Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket in Karon for its formal opening. The following day she opened a school building, a hospital building, the Tin Mining Museum in Kathu and unveiled two statues.

OUTRIGGER SHOUT A group of Phuket residents, below, were the winners of the “Office Shout”, run daily on the Live 89.5 Breakfast show and sponsored by Outrigger Resort & Villas. Outrigger also held farewell drinks for Chris Adams (see left), who was the GM at Outrigger until July 26.

Management staff say farewell to Chris Adams, second from right, the GM of Outrigger. @thephuketnews

From left, Phuket residents Thanchanok Brown, Sangiam Burarak, Duangchan “Poon” Chipcampen, Chris Runnegar, Matthew Runnegar, Darrel Brown and Stuart Bradley.

18 EVENTS

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List your event at thephuketnews.com

FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST AUGUST 2,2,2013

RBFC Thailand 2014 Classic Sport Fishing Tournament Offshore The Similan Islands

25th

27th February 2014

Proudly organised by the Rawai Beach Fishing Club, (RBFC) Phuket, Thailand.

Huge cash and other prizes to be won!!

57 hours of non-stop fishing!

Huge media coverage!

For further details please contact Warren Crowe or Andy Bright info@rawaibeachfishingclub.com Warren tel: +66 (0) 812604291 Andy tel: +66 (0) 862739948 Website: www.rawaibeachfishingclub.com

Prizes include fishing trips, tackle, limited edition prints, and much more!

Rawai Beach Fishing Club is an official Sponsor Club of the International Game Fishing Association. RBFC supports recreational fishing

FRIDAY AUG 2

BBQ at Expat Hotel Pool Competition at Expat Hotel Pool Competition at 9pm. Expat Sports Bar, Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www. expatsportsbar.com.

8pm, Expat Sports Bar, Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www.expatsportsbar.com .

shucked Oysters, Wagyu rump and Foie Gras. Meander from one live cooking station to the next, and don’t forget to leave room for cheese and dessert. With live Jazz music and a kids club, starting at B2,500++ per person including free flow of selected beverages. Advance bookings are highly recommended. Contact 076 372 400. Email: fb-phuket@banyantree.com.

Sunday Chillout Session Every Friday, all-you-can-eat authentic Indian curry buffet, B449 net per person.

7pm-11.30pm. Call 076 286 464.

SATURDAY AUG 3

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach

BBQ All You Can Eat at Shakers Mondays and Thursdays. BBQ all you can eat: pork, chicken, beef, prawns, fish and squid with salad buffet, cold and hot sauces, garlic bread, baked potatoes, potato salad and more for B325 per person.

7pm-11pm. Located in Patong on Rat-U-Tit 200 Pee Road next to Hotel Mercure.

SUNDAY AUG 4

Curry Fridays at Navrang Mahal

MONDAY AUG 5

TUESDAY AUG 6

Sunsets Bar & Guesthouse (Patong). Chillout session every Sunday. Live music. Free Bar/B/Q from 4pm. Free pool table. Happy hour 12pm-6pm. Karaoke. Everybody welcome. 62 Hasib Pee Road, Patong. Call Khun Joon for more info 082 286 5171.

Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice of either roast beef, chicken, loin of pork or leg of lamb served with roast and boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Only B320 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See www.otools-phuket. com.

Half Chicken Spit Roast Tuesdays and Saturdays: Half chicken spit roast with french fries, salad buffet, potato salad & gravy sauce for B225 per person.

7pm-11pm. Located in Patong on Rat-U-Tit 200 Pee Road next to Hotel Mercure.

WEDNESDAY AUG 7

The Good Shepherd Merchandise Shop Open Every Wednesdays and Saturdays. Plaza Del Mar, Laguna (Behind Bake). Time: 10am to 1pm every Wednesday and 9am to noon every Saturday. We have a wide and wonderful selection of handicrafts such as toys, greeting cards, ornaments, lanterns, bags, purses and many more.

You can also find exquisite arts and craft created by local residents. Pre-loved items include books, clothes and toys. Handicraft items are made by the disadvantaged members of society that The Good Shepherd strives to empower. All proceeds go directly to The Good Shepherd mission.

See thegoodshepherd.info.

Sunday Brunch at Sails, Hilton

Live Seafood & Jazz Sunday Brunch at Banyan Tree Join Banyan Tree’s indulgent LIVE Seafood Sunday brunch featuring lots of LIVE Canadian Lobsters, Tiger prawns, freshly

Enjoy our lavish international buffet with friends and family each sunday at Sails!

Our live band sets the mood for a relaxing afternoon with delicious food, live cooking stations, refreshing drinks and good company. Balloon artists entertain the little ones with face painting and kid activities.

Every Sunday at 12pm - 3 pm. B1,400++ per adult, B700++ per child (Ages 5-12).

Call 076 396 433.

Live Jazz Trio at Mom Tri's Enjoy live Jazz at Mom Tri’s Kitchen. Every Wednesday and Sunday Night in the Sea Shell Bar. Sunset Happy Hour daily from 6-7pm including selected beverages by the glass and 50% off drinks. Great live music, gorgeous sunset views and Thai and international cuisine. See momtriphuket.com.

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BBQ Ribs All You Can Eat Wednesdays and Fridays. BBQ ribs all you can eat with salad buffet and potato salad for B295 per person. 7pm-11pm. Located in Patong on Rat-U-Tit 200 Pee Road next to Hotel Mercure.

EVENTS 19

List your event at thephuketnews.com

Tim Shaw has over twenty years’ experience in television and radio broadcasting as a highly respected Host, Presenter, Journalist and Producer. All welcome.

Doors open at 6:15pm. More info at http:// ibap-phuket.org/

event. It is going to be huge cleaning Islands of Racha Yai, Racha Noi and Phi Phi Island. Book before August 12. Register at Chalong pier 7.30am - 8am on August 13. If you would rather be on land, there are simultaneous beach cleanups Island wide. Meeting point is Chalong Pier at 7.30am for all cleanups. Return to Chalong Pier 5pm. Don’t miss out! Help us to help Phuket. See facebook.com/GoEcoPhuket or email goecophuket@gmail.com for more information. You can also contact your local dive centre in Phuket for them to reserve you a place.

WED AUG 21 - TUE AUG 27

SATURDAY AUGUST 10

EVERY DAY

Enjoy Wednesday Night Free BBQ, fish and chips or buffet every other Wednesday night 8pm at the Black Dog Bar, Soi C&N, off Rat-u-thit road, Patong. Meet all the regular ex-pats and ladies for lots of fun. Please call Joon on 082 286 5171.

Wednesday Ribs

The ribs are dry rubbed and smoked for 6 hours then massaged with Kentucky Bourbon BBQ sauce. Full rack set: 3 course set with corn chowder and bread pudding souffle: B1,500++ per person. Must reserve. For residents order one kg full rack on Friday for takeaway on Wednesday.

Pick up and pay at SALA Beach Bar 5pm6.30pm (Happy hour) B750 net. Sorry, you must take away. Make a reservation or book your ribs with events@salaphuket. com, no phone calls please.

Electric Beach Bingo It’s bingo but not as you know it! Following the huge success of the launch, the next Electric Beach Bingo has been confirmed.

The event will include the best party tunes in between hosted rounds of bingo and prizes – ranging from the ludicrous, to free drinks and a bottle to share with your friends. Admission is free and you will be given your ‘ELECTRIC BEACH BINGO Club Pack’, which will include bingo cards, a pen and a jelly shot to get the party started. Dress Code: Glam it up with head wear and neon! More info visit xanabeachclub.com

MONDAY AUGUST 12

SATURDAY AUGUST 31 SILENT AUCTION

Commemorates the birthday of Queen Sirikit, also observed as National Mother’s Day (Wan Mae Haeng Chart). It is a public holiday.

TUESDAY AUGUST 13

FRIDAY AUGUST 9 IBAP - Same Same But Different

@thephuketnews

Por Tor Festival Ethnic Chinese in Phuket believe that Por Tor Kong is a God of evil. The seventh lunar month in the Chinese calendar is believed to be the period when spirits are released.

The gates are opened and spirits released to wander or revisit homes.During the festival, people bring food and nicely-decorated fruits to make offerings to Por Tor Kong to pass onto those spirits. An essential offering for the festival is a red turtle-shaped cake, large or small. They believe that turtles symbolise longevity.

HM the Queen’s Birthday

UPCOMING EVENTS

Our August meeting will feature Thailand media expert Tim Shaw talking about how branding, media, and promotion can enhance tourist-based business in Phuket.

“SAME SAME but DIFFERENT”.

Entry donation of B3,500 include cocktails, free flow selected beverage and four courses of French cuisine. To book please contact Phuket Has Been Good To Us 076 278 146, info@phukethasbeengoodtous. org or Boathouse 076 330 015, events@ boathousephuket.com. Proceeds go towards helping underprivileged children in Phuket.

LATiN PASS iON

1 SURPRISE CELEBRITY INTERNATIONAL GUEST CHEF ...1 STUNNING VENUE 6 REMARKABLE LATIN DRINKS...6 EXTRAORDINARY COURSES

THB 4,400 NET PER PERSON - SAT. 31 AUGUST - 7 PM ONWARDS RESERVATION RECOMMENDED. LIMITED SEATS.

ALCOHOL MAY BE A HEALTH HAZARD!

EMAIL: EVENTS@MAIKHAODREAM.COM

CALL: 089 725 6994 / 076 371 371

Latin Passion One surprise celebrity international guest chef, one stunning venue. Six remarkable Latin drinks, six extraordinary courses.

B4,400 net per person. Time: 7 pm onwards. Reservation recommended, limited seats. Alcohol may be a health hazard!

Contact email: events@maikhaodream. com, 089 725 6994 / 076 371 371.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 13 Red Hot Jazz Go Eco Phuket Clean Up 2013 Join us for Thailand’s largest cleanup

Laguna Summer Family Festival

Right through until 24 August, Latitude Marquee is transformed into a carnival playground. Enjoy the bouncy castle, and games in the Kidz Lounge. Festival attractions planned include art classes with Artist-in-Residence, Zumba fitness sessions in Latitude Marquee, theme parties and more. And a popular return attraction for the youngsters at this year’s Festival will be the Kidz Fun Zone, serving up afternoons of sports skills, cooking lessons, adventure and educational activities, golf excursions and outings to local amusement parks, from just B200 per session. For more information see lagunaphuket.com/events/ family-festival.

From 7.30pm till late enjoy jazz, dancing and art at ‘Red Hot Jazz’ at Boathouse.

Phuket Artists on Show

Exhibition runs until October 13. VR Gallery has asked local and resident artist to display some of their favourite works. The exhibition features three local Phuket Thai artists and two resident artists. Pieces are combinations of oil on canvas, mixed media and wood. Themes range from nature, nautical, nude and abstract creating a fascinating and multifaceted display of art work. http://www.momtriphuket.com.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

20 TIME OUT

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013 FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

This week in history

GOT YOUR NUMBER

■■ August 2, 1377

200,000,000 The number of insects on Earth for each human being.

100

Number of people who choke to death on ballpoint pens in the average year.

23

The number of years, roughly, that you will have spent sleeping by the time you reach the age of 75.

13

Percentage of parents who admit to doing their children’s school homework for them.

Escapologist Harry Houdini in chains, around 1898, from a book in the Library of Congress.

A combined army of Russian warlords is beaten by the Mongolian Blue Horde. The Russians were all roaring drunk.

■■ August 3, 1492 Christopher Columbus sets sail from Spain in search of India.

Instead, he bumps into the Caribbean.

■■ August 4, 1958 The Billboard Hot 100 is published for the first time. The No 1 song is ‘Poor Little Fool’ by Ricky Nelson.

■■ August 5, 1926 Three months before his death, escapologist Harry Houdini remains inside a sealed casket underwater for an hour and a half.

■■ August 6, 1991 The world’s first website, http:// indo.cern.ch goes online, the brainchild of Tim Berners-Lee. ■■ August 7, 1560 Hungarian countess and serial killer Elizabeth Bathory is born.

She and four collaborators were eventually convicted of killing 80 girls.

■■ August 8, 1990 Kuwait City is bombed as Iraq begins its invasion of the country.

This leads five months later to the first Gulf War.

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York

Answers at the foot of the page.

SUDOKU

55. Anonymous guy in court 58. Rarin’ to go 62. End of auto list 65. India setting 66. Deceived 67. Little biter 68. Cravings 69. Parkinson’s treatment 70. Pianist, Dame Myra

23. German industrial region 24. “The final frontier” 26. Religious book 27. Acknowledge 28. Throw the ice bucket 30. Geo-political org.

32. Dead to the world 33. Island greeting 34. Church assembly 37. Borders 40. Naturally formed Down methane 1. Short court figures? 41. Different 2. Bit of physics 42. Hunting dog 3. 100% 47. Diamond 4. Kind of wave complement 5. “Wheel of Fortune” 48. Ultimate object purchase 52. Put an edge on 6. “The Bourne 54. Expression of Supremacy” disgust opening locale 55. “Light My Fire” 7. Add to the pot singer, Feliciano 8. Chart anew 56.

Father of Balder 9. Chole or ergo 57. Tropical plant followers 59. Heredity carrier 10. Rare 60. Geologists’ studies 11. Music category 61. Vermin 12. Cork’s place 13. Like some humor 62. “Waterloo Bridge: Gray __” by Monet 18. Milkshake 63. Criminal’s nemesis 19. Perlman of 64. Santa ___ winds “Cheers”

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz:

1. Albert; 2. An umbrella; 3. A plant; 4.700 years ago in Italy; 5. Krishna Banji.

1. What was King George VI of Britain’s first name?

2. What or who was a bumbershoot?

3. Ixora: A plant, a Mexican town or a bone in the foot?

4. Roughly when were eyeglasses invented? Where?

5. What was actor Ben Kingsley’s name at birth?

Across 1. Awestruck 5. Gelling agents 10. Kind of car 14. Box 15. Nine performers 16. Roulette bet 17. Auto list 20. Besmirch 21. Sound entrance point 22. Metallica drummer, Ulrich 25. Limerick, e.g.

26. Good, in the ‘hood 29. Insect stage 31. Female demons 35. Altar avowal 36. Period 38. As recently as 39. Auto list, part 2 43. One of the Simpsons 44. Rolls’ first aero engine 45. Between pi and sigma 46. Enduring forever, old way 49. Cozy retreat 50. Bit 51. Math term 53. “La Scala di ___” (Rossini opera)

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CLASSIFIEDS 17

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

Property

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Properties for sale: Luxury investment condo N/East aspect Rawai 5th floor corner sweeping ocean rural views. 126sqm, 2 bed, 2 bath, free hold, furnished, pool, B8.75million perment tenant at B40,000 p/m. Call 089 050 5664

For Rent Villa in Cherng Talay: Villa in Cherng Talay, Rental - Longterm or shore term. Price: B90,000 per month ( long ) B150,000 Short term. 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms Internal area: 472 sq. metre on 1.2 Rai gated land. Call +66 (81) 892 0534.

3 B e d H o u s e Te r m Fu n Cherng taly: Main bed & sitting room both air con, large kitchen. Newly renovated. Part furnished. 10 minutes. from Laguna, 15 minutes. from Surin Beach. 12,000 per month, minimum 12 months. 087 272 5250. phetmeekha@ yahoo.com.

PROPERTY FOR RENT

Stunning Town Home: 3 BDR

Rawai Pool Villa For Sale:

+ Study or 4 BDR, 4 bathroom, maid’s quarters, full AC + hot water, pool, 2 car garage, western kitchen + extra storage. A must see. Was B21million reduced to B17million including Laguna family golf membership. Call 081 737 5001.

Beautiful Villa 550sqm. Land 2,400 sqm. with 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, maid's room, laundry room, home office, Western kitchen. Large mature garden, garage for 2 cars Price B32 million. Call 081 978 5181. www. myrawaivilla.com

Khao Sok, 25+ rai, B400,000 per rai: 25 rai, 3 ngan in Khao Sok, Klong Sok district. B400,000 per rai.

Close to Khao Sok National Park entrance. PNSS3 title, to be upgraded to Chanote soon. Phone 081 693 2759.

Kalim Sea View, Freehold Condo for Sale/Rent: B11.9 Seaview Villa 3 Bed Cape Yamu: Luxury single storey villa, furnished, set in private gardens with pool. Only 10 mins to PIA/BIS schools.

Includes pool cleaning, very quiet location. Only B45,000 per month. Long term. Call 086 279 6283

Beach Condo, Beach 3 Min. Walk: Spacious 2-bedroom apartment for rent, long or short term, fully furnished, kitchen, 2 bathrooms. Pool, large gardens, parking, a mere 3 minute stroll to scenic Nai Harn beach. resortgm@gmail.com.

million, 2 minutes walk to beach, big balcony and sunset view, 180 sqm, 2 ensuite bedrooms, big living space.

PhuketAREA.com, search V146.

Long Term Rental:

Three bedroom modern home available for long Term Rental. This pool villa is close to B.I.S. Central private location. Please check out website for more details. Contact Dianne 089 469 810. https://smore.com/r5ts.

Beach House & Beach Condo For Rent: Beach house in Cape Panwa. 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 1 living room, kitchen and dining room for 8-12 people, outdoor relaxroom for sunset meetings (no pool, in repair) and 2-rooms condo. See phuketbeach living.com.

Villa in Cherng Talay:

This beautiful 2 storey villa has wrap around balconies, 5 bed, 5 bath, swimming pool, office and child play area, movie room, dining room for 8, maids room and laundry, Sala. Internal area: 472 sq. m. Total area: 1,920 sq. m. Call 081 892 0534.

2Shophouse for lease in Patong: Low Rent! 2 Shophouse - 2 flrs.

Can make business ground floor. Huge 2nd floor fully furnished as 2 bed apartment with private bathrooms. Includes furniture. Big kitchen and living area.

084 189 7696.

Luxury 3 Bedroom Pool Villa: Located 4 km from Layan Beach, just outside Laguna, this new villa is available for long term rent. www.baanboosakorn.com

Bungalow for rent B8,000: Nice one bedroom bun-

Kata Beach Apartment Sea Views: Western 1,2&3 bedroom

units fully furnished, parking fully fitted teak kitchens. Granite tops Western baths, sat.TV&internet included.

Masterbed with ensuite bath starting 20,000/m longterm. No party people.

084 840 1262, north8east98@yahoo. com.

galow for rent, B8,000 per month, Mission Hills, on 1/2 Rai of land with Air Con & Internet. Call 081 892 4804 or 081 125 1873.

RPM Marina Condo:

Luxury 3 beds 3 baths stunning condo. 179 SQM. Foreign freehold. Views to sea, marina, lake and mountains. 2 balconies. B16.9 million. Call: 082 493 8526.

Email: flakes010@hotmail.com

Freehold 2 BR in Kathu: New

Beautiful home in Phuket 5.9m: Spacious open plan home - 4

renovated & decorated, large living room, fully furnished, shower & jacuzzi, mature gardens with waterfall, security.

Because of sickness NOW 3.25 MB. Call: 087 877 2320, 084 854 9889.

bedrooms,granite top kitchen,outdoor seating,100" home cinema, LED Lighting system,Tvs,LAN & Audio every room,alarm,3 phase electric. close to Laguna. Call 086 266 2786.

ACG Cricket Ground:

5 Rai raw land behind ACG clubhouse on long lease for compatible sporting facility. alan@acgphuket.com.

Patong Loft Rent:

Beautiful 2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms Condo, Fully furnished complete with kitchen utensils, microwave, coffee machine, toaster etc, bed sheets, towels for 4 people, internet, tv etc.

Available Nov. onwards. Call 081 4326587, 081 8915602

The Courtyard: Upper floor 10 m showroom frontage floor area 100 s m with air/cons. Contact Khun Siriporn 081 691 0213, siriporn@islandfurni ture-phuket.com, www.thecourtyardphuket.com.

WRITE YOUR CLASSIFIED FREE ONLINE: 189 CHARACTERS + 1 PICTURE Headline: Refreshing 2BDs Phuket Town: Newly built apartment of 72

Luxury Villa for Rent: MagnifiLuxury Condo Rent / Sale: 2 B e d r o o m , L- r o o m a n d f u l l y equipped kitchen, 160-212sqm. Very high standard with a nice view. Big balcony, swimming pool, gym. Location: Kathu, 10 min. Patong Beach, 5 min. Phuket Town and all department stores and international hospitals.

Rent Long term: B45,000 – B63,500 Buy: B8,500,000 – B11,500,000.

Contact 086 268 7901 or send email to: condophuket@yahoo.com.

cent 4 bedroom pool villa on the west coast of Phuket, above prestigious Kata Beach. Exceptional opulence throughout. Long & short term rental.

Enquiries on 087 283 8884 or 080 690 5248.

sqm. For rent, colorful and boutique design in Phuket Town. Fully furnished, kitchenette. Good location, Mae-Laun Road. Call Zhu at 089 668 3639; zhunaumann@gmail.com, see Baan PhitakTaweep-phuket.com.

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189 CHARACTERS

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Seaview Pool Villa for Rent: 2 Bed villa with lovely garden, koi pond, pool with sala/ 3rd bed and seaview.

Fully furnished, True visions on 42" screen, WiFi, new ACs. Private, quiet area but near all amenities. Call 086 279 6283.

Online upgrades:

Luxury Condo Rent/Sale: Luxury Condo Rent/Sale Phuket Villa Patong Beach beside Jungceylon.

Fully furnished 43sqm on the 6th floor with balcony, bedroom, living room, kitchen, cable & internet, pool, gym, laundry. Rent Long Term B30,000. Contact Nus 081 893 2330, seadream@loxinfo.co.th

PROPERTY FOR SALE

@thephuketnews

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Kathu Anuphas Golf Ville, fully furnished, 15 min to Patong, 15 min to Phuket Town, 20 min to Intern. School.

THB 30,000/month long term. Available immediately. Contact 087 892 6899.

room apartment. Sea view, swimming pool, whirlpool. Wi-Fi, cable TV. Only 3 apartments in complex. Call Eng. 087 882 9604, Rus. 084 443 6811 artlpmj@ yahoo.com.

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3 Bedroom House for rent:

Vassana Residence. 2 Bedroom: Luxury 2 bedroom, 2 bath-

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Ur g e n t 2 N ew A p a r tments For Sale: Because of divorce URGENT RE-SALE 2 brand new apartments. Welcome real buyers No agents. Call on +66 (0) 87 269 2274, Chrismar.

Website link B199

Urgent banner B199

UPGRADE TO PREMIUM

PAY ONCE UNTIL SOLD FOR JUST B2,799 + VAT, WILL RUN ONLINE AND IN EVERY PRINT EDITION UNTIL YOU HAVE SOLD. INCLUDES ADDITIONAL 9 PICTURES ONLINE. Print upgrades:

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DEADLINE: MONDAY 11.59PM (MIDNIGHT) FOR THAT FRIDAY’S ISSUE Hand this in at agent shops, our office or fax: 076 612 553

18 CLASSIFIEDS

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PROPERTY IN PHUKET

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com

PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

House and Business for sale: 3 storey, 5 bedrooms, good

location, off road parking, busy road.

Contact Thai 084 630 6920, English 082 534 7410, jeedyvcd@hotmail.com, davidweath@yahoo.com.

Freehold Condo For Sale:

45 Sq.m Freehold. 2 balconies (great view). 1 bedroom. 1 livingroom. 2 air conditioners. Full furniture. Internet. Cable TV. Laundry.

Fresh market. Swimming pool.

Gym. Restaurant. Call 080 040 9077.

Beautiful Karon Villa: 3 Bed Pool Villa Pa Khlok:

3 Beds, 2 Bath 6x3m pool. Full aircon and funishings. Ready for occupation and rental. Secure estate, private parking. 6km from Heroines monument. Close to PIA, BCS and shops. 081 737 0722.

Freehold House for sale:

Freehold house for sale in estate in Cherng Talay. Land 735m2, floor area 230m2, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom.

Many upgrades incl new carpor t included. Price B11 million. Call 083 509 8797 for info or viewing.

Modern open living villa has it all, fully furnished, private secure estate close to beach. Enjoy the private salt water pool and undercover parking, 3 large bedrooms freehold investment. 081 719 4688.

Investment Proper t y for sale!: New, modern waterfront town-

Outstanding investment Lanta: Outstanding investment opportunity! 7 studio apartments within beach front development. All 7 apartments, being offered at a discounted price to a total of 18 million baht for all of them. Call: 089 83 98 255. Email: info@lantaestate.net

home at the Boat Lagoon for sale.

Rented out long term at B570,000 per year. 3 bed/4 bath, 2 balconies, terrace at canal, 6 m berth in front of house.

250 sqm living space. Top condition.

Luxury finishings. Brokers welcome.

B9.9 million. 086 747 9292 (English) or 081 970 5204 (Thai/English).

Patong Free Hold Condo:

Studio condo on 4th floor 50s/m.

Huge swimming pool, beautiful gardens, completly renovated new tiles, light, painting, new furniture, kitchen, shower and toilet. B2.5 million, Eng 085 471 9246, Thai 087 621 3405.

Budget Bungalows: Two Bun-

galows in Chalong.2-3 bedrooms.

Close to all amenities.One has room for a pool,the other is like a rain forest. From only B2,300,000. Call 081 270 4291. Email: thailandmls @gmail.com.

Sales Down Payment Dcondo Mine: 7th floor. with

house with 2 bedrooms or separate SC flat downstairs.Well ventilated with natural light in pristine condition.

Distant sea views.B5,500,000. 089 652 1951 or thailandmls@gmail. com.

When only the best will do! 4 bed/pool villa in Phuket’s best-kept gated community. 410 sq.mtr villa. 812 sq.mtr land.

Overlooking lagoon. Beautiful. Call 081 270 4291. Email: thailandmls@ gmail.c om, w w w.phuketpremium realestate.com.

Nai Harn Baan Bua:

pool & lake view. Fully furnished, near Kajonkiet International School, Tesco Lotus, Big C. 10 mins to Patong. Move in Mar 2014. Only B99k. Contact: 081 694 4144, 081 307 7247, email: suthipow@yahoo.com

FOR SALE RAWAI BEACH SPECIAL T WIN VILL AS. 3 O R 4 B ED RO O M S, 4 B AT H R O O M S . P O O L , LARGE TERRACE, SMALL GARDEN. LIVING SPACE 400 SQM, LUXURY FURNISHED. PRICE B8,500,000. FREEHOLD.

Singl e H ou se Sp eci al Price Rent/Sale: Nice house

fully furnished with teakwood furniture, ready to move in. 240 sqm. 4 bed 4 bath, close to Kathu waterfall and market. Near Loch Palms, major stores, BIS and KIS. B45,000 per month. Call Oranwan 086 883 3169.

Laguna/Layan Beach Luxury 13M Salt-Water Pool Villa For Sale (Or Rent): Three large

INFO: 081 788 8280. EMAIL: thewhitehousekata@gmail. com.

bedrooms with bathrooms in tastefully re-decorated bungalow set in mature garden plot of 550m2 within secure development for ownership and/or investment. B15.5 million. Email: irynain@gmail.com.

hold 3/4 Bedroom Villa. 3 Air Con. 4k. to Ao Makarm Beach. 10x5m pool with 4th bedroom / office on other side. Plot size 104SqWah. 416Sqm. Reasonable offers. Call 089 831 4703/084 304 6723.

Luxury Villa in Chalong: Perfect condition, 660 sqm on 3 levels, 1,600 sqm land, 5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, swimming pool 12.5m x 6m with jacuzzi, large sala, double garage. Top quality construction. Reduced price: B25.5 million www.tamata-phuket.com crishausb@hotmail.com. 086 271 3260 or 086 273 4149.

Rai is 2.5 MB, total 3 Rai of Land, Mountain View, Chanote, 3 Mins drive to Thanyapura/PIA School, 15 Mins to Airport. Contact Marisa 084 305 6667 or marisar1978@ hotmail.com.

Building 3 storey for sale:

1 Rai Land QUICK Sale in Rawai: Beautiful land with Cha-

note for sale, concrete access road, Land plot, electric & facilities ready to build your home. Direct contact Thai owner K.Dallas (Poy) 089 472 9870 or dchaibut@gmail.com.

Land Close to Thanyapura/PIA: Half Rai 1.3MB, 1

Villa with Pool for Sale: Free-

Business for Sale: Located in

a prime area just 50 meters from the north end of Patong Beach (close to Graceland Hotel & the roundabout on beach road) there are two commercial townhouse buildings incorporated into this sale. They are offer on a freehold basis which comes complete with a Chanote land title deed. The two 3 storey buildings sits on land measuring over 30 sq.wah.

This prime real estate has been prepared for total refurbishment and is a perfect business investments for a property developer for resell potential or a business person who wants the freedom to create their own business design concept. Plans have been drawn-up to develop the property into either a 8 room or a 14 room guesthouse/apartments. 081 893 2330.

Rawai Great Buying: Lovely

Patong Condo for sale: A nice foreign freehold condominium for sale in Patong is located in a recently complete development of one & two bedrooms condominiums. Located on the fourth floor of a total of five. 080 052 8082.

Ocean Front Villa for Sale:

Luxury brand new villa, fully furnished and ready to move in, 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms with infinity 10 metre long swimming pool and truly beautiful sea view. Located in a small development, only 50 metres from the sea and 3 mins from Ao Po Grand Marina. For sale B19.9 million or for long term rent B150,000 per month. Call 081 343 0777, email: montha_phuket@ yahoo.com.

Rawai Soi Saliga Land for Sale: Land 1 rai + 81 T/W total

1924 sqm. Does not need landscaping sale by owner land location on the top of the Soi. Tel: 084 745 4132, chanote title.

THB 26,000,000. Only 300 m. from Kata Beach. 236.25 sqm. 2 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. For more information call K.Chavarin 089 911 8833/081 866 9253 or email: wkongkeaw@hotmail.com

Seaview Land Patong: Two parcels of superior land 11 rai. Inc seaview. Main road frontage. Ideal for resor t or condominiums. B150 M . N e g o t i a b l e . ( T h a i ) 0 81 3 7 0 8114 or (Ger) 081 892 1108. Email: davidgem98@hotmail.com.

N ew Condo Kat hu For Sale/Rent: Sansiri D Condo

Kathu, Fully furnished Studio type 29.7 sq.m. on 6th floor, good facilities with fitness gym and large swimming pool. Only 5 minute to Patong, Lotus, Big C, Central. By owner. Call 086 105 8144.

3 Gorgeous Lots, Clean Titles: For sale or long lease.

2 lots on island-beachfront (bungalow-/housing-estate) and 1 big mainland-mountain property all in very quiet, safe, well maintained locations near Krabi. 089 291 4671.

Guesthouse for Lease in Patong: 12 rooms, good location Nanai Road.9 year lease: very low rent,strong starting, easy to manage and good return on investment. Price 1MLN. Take this opportunity. Thamad17@yahoo. com. 089 728 4005.

Rawai Seaview Condo for sale: Seaview condo, freehold, 2

bedroom, 2 bathroom, 120sqm. B7.8 million, fully furnished. For more pictures and information please contact: adrian_troy@yahoo.com

2 Pool Villas next to PIA:

Ready to move in, villa 1 on 1,100 sqm. land, for sale 15.9 mil and villa 2 on 2,200 sqm. land, for sale 19.9 mil baht. Brand new, each with 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 12 metre swimming pool, guest bungalow with 1 bedroom 1 bathroom. Perfectly located in a development with underground electricity and security, only 800 metres from Mission Hills golf course, less than 10 mins to airpor t, Phuket International Academy and Ao Por Grand Marina. Call 081 343 0777. Email: montha_phuket@yahoo.com.

Urgent-3 Bedroom House for sale: 3 Bed, 3 Bath, 4 aircon,

fullly furnished with Chanote title, mini office 4x4, living room, European kitchen, CCTV, internet, garden. Permsap Villa Manik, 436sqm.

15min from airport. B6.8 million. Call 089 871 4172.

Seaview Townhouse Patong: Bet ween the c it y and

the jungle at the northern edge of Patong. 70m alt. 10mn walk to the beach. 4 storey + 290 sqm, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 1 toilet.

4 aircon, partly furnished. Email: andamanhills@gmail.com.

Af fordable 3 Bedroom House: Single floor, 3 bedroom,

kitchen/dining area, living room, 2 toilets/showers. Aircon in each bedroom. Water tank+pump. External covered area. Chanote title: 256 sqm Quiet developed village near Heroines Monument B3.2 million.

Call 087 276 0529 .

Beautiful Villa Rawai: Beautiful 2 bed pool villa with separate maids room or third bedroom. Great entertaining area. Five minutes to all conveniences. Drastically reduced to B8,600,000. 081 270 4291 or thailandmls@gmail.com.

Patong Apartment Reduced Price: Condo 4 years old. Swimming

pool, security 24/7, cafeteria. Studio 46sqm fully furnished. Freehold for foreigners. Price: 2.6MLN. Urgent sale, no agent. Tel: 089 728 4005. Email: thamad17@yahoo.com.

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CLASSIFIEDS 19

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

PROPERTY IN PHUKET

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

House for Sale - Chalong:

Luxury 3 Bed Villa For Sale:

This luxury three bedroom home is located in a secure estate with security and office. It is only five minutes from Bangtao Beach and Laguna Phuket including the Laguna Phuket Golf Club and 20 minutes from Blue Canyon Country Club and Phuket International Airport. The villa comes fully furnished with luxury leather lounge suites and quality furniture, all bedding, kitchen utensils and cooking facilities.

For details and inspection, see www. phuketselect.com or contact graham@ phuketselect.com or call 081 897 0225.

Mission Heights: Land area 500m2, House area 164m2. 3 bed, 4 bath, fully furnished, aircon in all rooms, fans, Internet, satellite TV, swimming pool, independent water supply wells. Finish work December 2012. B8.5 million. Call 088 838 3242.

Quiet stand alone villa, 3 bed, 2 - 5 star baths, 5 aircon, full furn, garden dining lush green, 50 Wah, quality new paint, excellent condition, B3.5 mil lion, f irm. Contact: peterb@inter globalau.com, 084 843 3492.

Beach Land on Koh Yao Yai: 6.26 rai direct beachfront, power, water, road, unobstructed views, chanote title, white sand, peaceful. Only 5.8 mil baht per rai. Doesn't get much better than this! Beautiful beach land. 081 649 3557.

Pool Villa Rawai: 4 Bedroom/ 4 Bathroom European style single storey house with self contained guest house and pool in Rawai on 736m2 plot. Large master bedroom with en-suite, walk in wardrobe. Modern western style kitchen with granite tops, built-ins throughout. Established 7 years. Plenty of outdoor living area with several verandahs and under cover car park, air-conditioning in all bedrooms and lounge. Situated about 2km from Chalong circle in a quiet lane 1km from Viset Road. House & Guest house 180 sqm Land area 736sqm (184TW). 3 bedrooms Master ensuite, 4 Bathrooms 7x3.5m salt water pool.

Electric gate. Well water. Concrete road access. Call 087 891 9349.

New House for Sales low price than Project, Phanason Villages at Bang Joe for 50 Sqm, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Free contract. Contact: 089 729 9503.

New House for Sales:

Luxur y Villa 3 Bedroom Pool for Rent: New villa 320sqm

fully furnished. 4 bathrooms, 12m long pool, 5 min. by car to PIA, situated between Naithon and Naiyang beaches. Longterm rent B80,000 include maid and gardener service.

Call 08 0 143 529 4, email: alain terrat@hotmail.com.

(Manthana Zone) Land area = 440 sqm. Home area: 300 sqm. 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 1 living room and kitchen, 1 swimming pool (3m*10m) out door jacuzzi and pavilion. Sales: from B9.9 - B12 million. Rent: from B85,000 - B120,000 per month. 088 751 2389.

3 & 4 Bed Pool Villas:

House on The Corner for Sale: Quiet location and only 500m

from the main road. Thepkrasattri, Heroines Monument. 70sqw x 280sqm, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, big living room with open - plan kitchen (9x9m), 1 separated kitchen, carpark for 3 cars and a small storehouse, 2 aircons, cable TV, 1 phone line TT&T. Price: B2,995,000 including furniture. Must see! Email: jochenschmitz16@gmail.com. Call 081 607 8000.

The Aqua pool villa-sales/ rent: In Land & House Park Phuket

Laguna/Layan. Luxury private pool villas in secure development.

Available now. All beds ensuite.

Fully furnished. Rental programme available. B12-20 million. Contact owner: 085 549 7110.

3 Bdrm House for sale Thalang: House for sale. 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, large living and dining room, 4 X aircons, 2 X car ports and garage.

House 7 yrs 1 owner, well maintained with 135sqm living area. Land Chanote 92tw. 081 737 3116.

3 Rai Chanote Mangosteen Land: Beautiful square land plot next to Mangosteen Resort, 3-0-38 Rai, Chanote title, light slope, great access to Soi Saiyuan, show villa can be completed, ideal for villa or condo development. 081 536 5846.

Nice Villa for Sale: Near Naiyang Beach, 3 bed & 4 bath, jacuzzi, open dining/living room, kitchen, fully furnished, aircon, garden, Sala, swimming pool, car park.

Only 8.9MB. 087 091 8331 K. Nah, chiangmaibeltrade@hotmail.com, dreamhousephuket.com.

400m from Naiyang Beach. 3 Rai 1 Tarangwah.

6.5MB per Rai. Call 087 091 8331 or email chiangmaibeltrade@hotmail. com for more information.

Land for Sale:

372 m2 Ideal for office or apartment / office.

All floors with air condition, bathrooms, phone lines, local phone network, internet, cable TV and office furniture.

Sell by owner direct. Call 081 958 3310.

3-storey Shophouse: 12 Rai Chanote to sell: One of the last pieces of beautiful sea view land between Ao Makham and Ao Yon Road. Infrastructure done B210 million.

Call 081 917 0377, 10am-5pm.

Resort for Sale: Resort 2 rai, with

chanote. 22 double villas with kitchens, large pool and big coconut garden with own well. Restaurant and bar with satellite TV and Adsl. Opened for 15 years, with lots of repeat customers, parking, quiet. 086 940 1860.

Sea-View Chalong-Residence: Dream pool villa with 5

bedrooms all with ensuite on 1 rai of land. Big hall, office, maid’s room.

Brand-new construction opposite Wat Chalong on the way up to the hill. A huge 685 sq.m of living area, fully furnished. Modern Europeandesigned kitchen. Big sea view pool terraces incl sala and attractive bar area. Security alarm system. Selling price on request. By owner directly.

Call 085 654 4011 or 089 404 0737.

Email: schulz.th@gmx.de.

Price Reduced, 4beds Villa:

Comfortable 4 bedrooms villa, plus maid room. Approx. 450Sq.M building, corner plot, energy saving, management service available for investor.

Located in secured gate community, near British International school. info@ mindproperties.net.

F O R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE

Urgent Sales! Beach front 2 Commercial buildings (3 storeys), 14 bedrooms, 16 bathrooms Klong Dow beach, Koh Lanta - Krabi. Contact owner directly - negotiable price: 081 270 8622, 084 841 5635.

Rawai Condo Sale/Rent:

Sell 1.1MB, Full ownership foreverbeyond the financing plan of 10 years. Rent 9,000B/Month. Studio room renovated with furniture. A/C, WiFi, kitchen, 200m to beach. 084 242 8914. Rawai4@yahoo.com.

Mai Khao Prime Location Land: I will sell my piece of land next to the new tourist attraction in Mai Khao. Perfect for investment in future like shops, guesthouse. Please email for mobile number and more details. ohmidzi@gmail.com.

INFO: 081 788 8280.

EMAIL; thewhite housekata @gmail. com.

@thephuketnews

LUXURY 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT 60 SQM. PRICE B2,700,000.

LEASEHOLD. INFO: 084 843 8720.

E M A I L; t h e w h i t e housekata@gmail. com.

in Kathu close to international schools. Views over Loch Palm. All bedrooms with aircon and ensuite bathrooms. Two car garage and secluded garden. Chanote title. Call 084 844 0991

Free Hold Condo For Sale: PATONG condos for sale:

Beautiful, modern Condos/Apartments, furnished, best/quiet locations, garden, s-pool, from 36-67sq metre, sea-city-mountain views, from B2,375. Call 087 819 2162 or caltirol@hotmail.com.

And for rent. Sea view and mountain views. Freehold from 64 to 448 sq metres. Phone no: 080 692 6114. Email: orsoreal estate@hotmail.com.

43 Sq. Free hold. 1 balcony (Great view). 1 bed room. 1 living room. 2 air conditioners. Full furniture. Internet.

Swimming pool. Gym.Automated door lock and key card. Call 080 040 9077.

For Sale Rawai Beach Special Twin Villa.

4 suites/studios, 4 bathrooms, pool, large terrace, small garden, living space 400 sqm. Include luxury furnishing

Villa and farmland for sale:

A big beautiful house with 7 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, fully furnished. Located in stunning panoramic hilltop scenery in Takuapa, Phang Nga, covering an area of 127 rai. Surrounded by fertile farmland with fruit trees. Price 132MB. Contact K. Peerawat: 084 308 8484. Email: peerawat200310@hot mail.com

Sea View Land for Sale: Ao Makham. 5.5 rai, B10 million per rai.

Contact Siriporn 089 649 9939, email: siri_phuket@changrunner.com

Patong Tower for Sale:

F O R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE Seaview Land For Sale: Land located right in the heart of Chalong with panorama view of Chalong pier.

Close to a number of sandy beaches; Naihan Rawai Kata and Karon. Easy access to major department stores.

Surrounded by public facilities including education institutes and hospitals.

You will benefit from a perfect location that's rapidly increasing in value. 3 rai and 1 Ngan with Chanote title.

B22 millions per rai. Call 087 278 7206, 089 215 5041 e-mail: kubesjoy@ hotmail.com.

2 Storeys single house in Rock Garden 5 Village - By Pass Road. Near town, quiet and safe. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms & housekeeper's room. 2 cars parking. Nice English & German neighbours. Call 089 159 3239.

House for sale near Loch Palm: Three bedroom pool villa

LUXURY 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT 60 SQM. PRICE B3,400,000.

LEASEHOLD. INCLUDE FURNISHINGS.

Beachfront Building - Lanta:

Sales - House near By Pass:

Sea View Off Plan Condominiums: 65m2 Condominium. 1

Bedroom, 1 en suite bathroom, living room, kitchen, pool, large balcony and terrace space, parking. Excellent investment opportunity. See property forsalephuket.co.uk.

Price B8.5 mllion.

SMS for info: 081 788 8280 Email: thewhitehousekata@gmail.com For Russian contact Oxana 080 529 0726 or Email: phuket.lux@gmail.com

20 CLASSIFIEDS

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PROPERTY IN PHUKET

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com

PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

Modern Family House for sale: Beautiful 3 bedrooms villa in New Luxury Villa For Sale: 3 Luxurious Golf Villa @ Laguna Village: MUST BE SOLD !

Surplus to family invest needs. 3-bed, plus maid's qtrs. This home has been lovingly cared for. Leasehold/freehold.

BVI status. POA. Ph 082 810 4184, phuketres@gmail.com

bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, living room, kitchen, private swimming pool (12 metre). House area of 600 sq.m., land 1.5 rai (2400 sq metre). Located on the shore of the ocean on the Koh Kho Khao. Email: larion2555@ gmail.com.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

Rawai. 160sqm indoor. 400sqm outdoor. Shared swimming pool. Modern villa renovated in 2011-2012. Fully furnished. For more info: phuketvilla jasmine@gmail.com

Beautiful Naiharn Pool Villa:

Secure private hillside by Naiharn Beach. Quality furnished throughout. 3 big bedrooms, office, 4 baths, 230 sm plus carport etc. 1050 sm land. New condition. 15x4.6m pool. Freehold.

Nice. 089 727 5407.

Sea-View Contemporary Pool Villla: Located near Phuket

town. L and: 8 5 5 sq.m. H ouse: 650sq.m. Furnished. 3 beds, 2 offices, 2 staff quarters, 1 free room.

2 car parks. Price B54.9 mill.Tel: 081 895 3628 E-mail: jin_koy@ yahoo.com.

F O R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE 2 BEDROOMS LUXE APARTMENT 135 SQM. P R I C E B 7, 9 0 0 , 0 0 0 .

LEASEHOLD. INFO: 084 843 8720.

EMAIL; thewhitehouse kata@gmail.com.

Surin Beach Office For Sale: Prime location sales office/ Hot Price Sale-PuriAnda Villas: New Pool Villa in Rawai 2 Bed/3 Bath, Built-In & Partial fur. Private pool & jacuzzi, sala, 500 m.to beach Price 7.9 mil.Baht with Chanote title Tel.081 691 3029, E: kris.silanachai@ yahoo.com.

Mansion in Town for Sale:

359.7 sq. 43 rooms. 15 air-conditioners, 28 fans. balcony, hi-speed internet, parking, CCTV and sentry box. In & out with finger scan. Near shopping centre.

B32 million. Call: 090 167 9816 (Eng), 086 300 5052(Thai).

shop. Internal 144 m2, back garden 60 m2, 4 car parks, kitchen, internet, phone/ fax, TV, 5 AC. 6 yrs lease then 3 years rolling, rent B35,000, sale B1.5 million. Call 085 060 0033.

1.5 Rai Private Land Cape Yamu: 1.5 Rai flat land at Cape

Yamu. 2 x 0.75 Rai adjoining plots.

OrBorTor road access to quiet end of soi location. Sale direct from the owner.

B3.75 Million per rai negotiable. Call 081 087 9237.

Cheapest Seaview land for Sale: Panorama view of sea view

golf course view mountain view land for sale. Near Mission Hills Golf course.

6 rai chanote title. B3 million per rai.

087 675 9555, email: pee_bang56@ hotmail.com.

Beaut i ful L and L aguna Cherngtalay: Chanote title, yel-

low zoned, safe area. Nearly 4 rai, direct from owner. Subdivided in 6 plots each ca. 1,000sqm. ready to build. Only B6.75 million per rai. Call 081 367 7683, chanchira.panpaen@googlemail.com.

Seaview 1 BDRM New Condo Patong: Stunning seaview,

Double your money in 5 years!: New Year special promotion: Studio in brand new, world class, eastcoast development. Never seen on Phuket; amazing luxury at real prices.

Call 080 882 1377, email: beachpro jects1@gmail.com.

Rawai Beachfront Pool Villa for Rent/Sale: Rawai

Beach front pool villa for sale. 3 bedrooms, furnished. Contact Siriporn on 089 649 9939.

F O R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE LUXURY 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT 60 SQM. PRICE B2,900,000.

LEASEHOLD. INFO: 084 843 8720.

EMAIL; thewhite housekata@gmail.com.

city view 1 bdrm condo on hill 500m from Patong beach. Fitness centre, roof top pool, security, car park, freehold. Only B4,400,000. Keith 084 628 3430, keithb025@gmail.com.

Condo At The Heights, Kata: Immaculate 2-bed foreign-

Commercial Building For Sale: 5M. x 18.30M.,3 floors, located Sea View Land for Sale:

Ao-Yon, 13.5 rai, chanode title.10m/ rai.Call Siri 089 649 9939, email: siri_phuket@changrunner.com.

close by Condo at Saiyuan, 2 big halls, 2 bedrooms,4 bathrooms,clean&new building. Price negotiable. Tel:087 881 7979, 081 472 0770, ss.kijrungruang@ gmail.com.

Amazing 3 Bedroom Villa With Swimming Pool: Guarded

compound Kokyang Estate Phase II, 3 min to Nai Harn beach, modern interior design, garage, developed infrastructure. For more information: phuketbuyhouse.com/1644. Call Elena 084 305 0634.

freehold unit in award-winning project. 195 sqm, sea view, near gym & pool. Quality furnishing throughout.

Designer kitchen with utility-store. phuket.pn@gmail.com.

2 Bed Thai Style House, Rawai: 110m2 Thai style house, 2 Furnished House for Sale Phuket Villa 5: 3 bedroom Patong Bangla Building for Sale: B28 million, Chanote, 4

floors 6m x 14m. 1st & 2nd tenanted.

Flr 3-staff accom, bath, kitchen.

Separate office with access to lower floor. 4th flr private penthouse one bed. 087 881 7600.

4 plots (3 connecting, 1 separate) 1km north of Airport, along the road to MaiKhao Beach. Sea view towards south east.

NorSor3Gor. 4.5 Rai in total. B4 million per Rai. Contact owner: 081 893 6630.

SeaView near Airport:

furnished house near Kajonkiet School. Secure area, Cul De Sac. Nic e gardens, t wo bathrooms.

B3.5M negotiable. Call 081 370 8114 (Thai) 087 889 3838 (Eng), email:davidgem98@hotmail.com.

bedroom, 2 bathroom, living room, kitchen, dining room, office/study, upstairs balcony, large car park, high walls & electric security gate. MUST SEE! See propertyforsalephuket.co.uk.

Urgent 6.1 Rai Land for Sale: 6.1 rai (10,000sq metre). - 5

minutes to Naithon Beach. 10 minutes to Naiyang Beach. 10 minutes to Airport. 7 minutes to New Tesco Lotus. - Roadside land and Chanote title. Call 085 793 2718.

N i c e H o u s e + Po o l Fo r Sale: House with pool for sale at

Land & House area 119 sqm. Sale for B13,000,000. Contact 086 036 3944 and 086 282 7457 Khun Touch.

Very Spacious European From Owner: Villa in peacePool villa for sale or rent: Nai Harn / Rawai, Balinese Pool Villa, 2 years old, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, price reduced for quick sale. Please call our agent 082 420 70 52 or send email to stayonphuket@yahoo.com.

Balinese Pool Villa:

Happy Home Apartment for sale: Nice apartment, fully

furnished at Rawai. The apar tment is set in a private compound with pool. It is located only 5 minutes from beach and convenient to Phuket Town. Only B15 million.

Tel: 081 893 2165 www.happyho meapartmentphuket.webiz.co.th.

Allamanda (Laguna) Residences/Phuket Sale/Rent: One condo unit, half of a deluxe twin house, fully furnished and equipped, set direct on the picturesque lagoon with balcony right over it. 3 bedrooms each with shower/bathroom, roof terrace. Long term rent or sale. 090 487 8084, utaipan@yahoo.com.

Spac ious one bed room apar tment with ocean view, nor th of Patong. Floor area 96m2 internal and 72m2 terrace including water feature with sala and jacuz zi. Per fect bachelor pad with rental income. Email for info: bart duykers@mac.com.

For sale:

Hillside setting. Luxurious 6 bedroom, 5 bathroom pool villa for sale or rent. Sale 20M Baht. Rent Low season Daily 6k, Weekly 36k, Monthly 80k. High season Daily 7k, Weekly 42k, Monthly 100k.

One complete year 85k per month. Call 087 078 6379.

Reduced for Quick Sale:

Studio condo at The Point near Lotus, Big C, Central. Fully furnished. Great views 6th floor. Cost B2.8M. Reduced to B2.25M. Call 087 889 3838 or 081 370 8114.

Email: davidgem98@hotmail.com

Land for Sale Cherngtalay: Beautiful 2,400sqm (1.5RAI) Chanote titled land plot in Pasak 8, located on the highest point of a gentle slope.

Quiet and safe area. Only 8.5MB. Agents welcome. Phuketlandvilla@ hotmail.com, 089 875 9609.

Donsak Beachfront Land 3 Rai: 67 metres absolute beach

frontage, fully infrastructured, ready to build. Close to ferry going to Koh Samui. Chanote title. 4.5 MB for all.

Email: nhoj0512@hotmail.com.

Royal Kamala Condo-Sale & Rent: In Kamala. Freehold 1, 2, 3 Bedroom apartment with kitchen, living room, balcony, swimming pool, fitness, security guard, parking. Ready to move. 085-368-3009, salesdirector@ royalkamala.com

Kamala 3 bed pool villa reduced: Expat owner must sell health reasons. Beautiful home, plot size 892sqm, B20 million. Additional plot 1,372sqm, price B3 million. Best buy in Kamala. No question! Call 0862695108, 0807447625 Thai.

ful place in Rawai. Large living area and terrace. 3 bedrooms, 4 aircon, 3 bathrooms, 1 guest toilet.

Western kitchen, garage, laundry, beautiful garden, swimming pool.

612 sqm plot, chanote title. Price B9.5 million. Contact Tanya 083 506 8345, geta909@gmail.com.

Absolute Beachfront: Set on the beachfront, the ff villa offers uninterrupted sea and island views of the south east coast of Phuket.

Situated between two 5 star resorts: Vijitt and EVASON near Laem Kanoi. 081 480 3834, http://www. facebook.com/Phuket.Beachfront.

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CLASSIFIEDS 21

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

PROPERTY IN PHUKET

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com Luxury Four Bed House In Laguna

RPM Owner Direct Unique luxury condo 2 bed, 2 bath, 155sqm. Foreign FREE HOLD. Recent architect remodel. New Jacuzzi. Views to lake, mountain, marina, pool etc.

Completely furnished to very high standard. Motivated owner leaving.

Beautiful luxury four bedroom house over looking the lake and golf course in Laguna.

Sale: B33.5 million / Rent: B170,000 per month.

Call Mick: 084 818 6045 - Email: mick_bat@hotmail.com or www. silkwind.net/laguna.

Reduced by 600,000B. ONLY 16.9MB.

Contact Brian (Owner) 089 054 4354, +632 906 435 7146, Alan 087 999 6174, bggvirgo@gmail.com.

See RoyalPhuketMarinaCondos.com for complete details.

PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT. 2 , 2 0 0 L and , N ai H a r n -B10.9 million for Sale: Condominium for SALE in Patong: Freehold title, Studio type, Sales - down payment 250,000 B D Condo Mine Phuket Town by Sansiri. Finished in March 2014.Corner room on the 7th floor with nice view. 2 Bedrooms Call:089 159 3239.

Sales - D Condo Mine:

32 sqm. of the living area, Furnished, 1 Bathroom, Fitted kitchen with dining area, Swimming pool, Restaurant. Call 083 103 3801 (English and Thai).

Apartment for sale in Patong: Apartment for SALE in World Class Sea Views: 4 Bedroom British Colonial style house, Cape Yamu, Phuket. Amazing views spanning over 100km, as far as Krabi. Price reduced from B35 to B28 million. 086 279 6283, email: kdesmond59@yahoo.co.uk.

Patong; 50 sqm of the living area, sea-view /mountain view, furnished, Pool, 24hr security, for SALE B2.8M B3.3M. Contact +66 (0) 83 103 3801, 081 415 7774.

Located in Sai Yaun 9, at the back of Mangosteen hotel. Very good access , road, electric, water. Size approximately 30 by 70 metres.

Chanote. Contact 087 897 0501. aleksa@thai-evagroup.com

Home Office Near Thanyapura: New 2-storey home

East Coast Sea View Land

office near Academy for sale, 280 sq metres, Chanote title, 2 beds 3 baths, nature mountain view. Main street, multiple entrances and exits. 10 minutes to Airport. Only B4.95 million. Call: 086 948 2294.

Total 1.5 rai (2,450sq metre) on gently sloping land with sea view of Phang Nga Bay. 2 separate Chanote titles each about 1,200 sq metres (4.5 and 5.5M), or will sell as one lot.

Underground services. 081 273 7326, email: kmar74@hotmail.com.

Phuket Country Club Condos: 3 Only Luxury Contemporary

Last 1 Studio of The Cleat condo (Phase 1) in Krabi Boat Lagoon, low-rise waterfront Condo built around the lagoon with Mangrove, Sea and Marina view and full facilities. Call +66(0)76 238 948.

Condo in Marina:

U

n r ge

ts

al e

Condos, 1 per floor C/W lift. Located on the 15th fairway 275 M3 per floor total.Common Pool and Sundeck.

Underground parking 1/unit, Floor 3 show unit complete Floors 1&2 are unfinished, waiting for owners choice of flooring and kitchens. Could still develop into one very large private home. Floors 1&2 could be offices star ting from B10 million. Or B32 million for project Partial financing available. Info contact 084 840 1262, north8east98@yahoo.com

Apartment on Golf Course:

Golf View, Kathu. Tastefully renovated large (83m2) apar tment in Phuket Country Club. Golf view. 1 bed but easily converted to 2. Store, large Western kitchen and all furniture included. Ideal (holiday) home.

Contact 081 273 7326, Email: keith marshall747@gmail.com.

Mission Hills.

One rai. Very quiet and private, close to all services, 10 min to school, airport, beach, golf, Tesco. B3.4M. 087 276 0529 for info.

Land for Sale:

Great Investment Opportunity: Completed show house

Chanote title at Cherng Talay / Pasak7 (Phuket - Surin Beach area) Phone 090 487 8084. Email: utaipan@yahoo.com.

Land Plot for Sale:

A b so lu t e B e ac h Fro n t Land: Songkla district near new

deep sea port. 4.5 Rai divided into 7 Chanote plots. Reluctant sale.

B4.9M the lot. Email: jmic chia@ yahoo.com or call 087 276 0529.

Urgent Sale: 6 rai Hilltop Land for sale, near Mission Hills golf club, was B4.2 million per rai now only B2.99 million per rai, full chanote, water/ elec. sea/mountain views. 087 978 5804 (Eng).

Superb Ocean View Lux Penthouse: B148,000 per sqm,

Beautiful Beachfront Land:

Absolute beach front land only 4 to 5 hours from Phuket. Why pay 30-50 million baht per Rai when you can have the best from B1.1 to B2.9 Million Baht per Rai!!! Email: thailandmls@ gmail.com.

BEST SEAVIEW LANDEVER! Seaview Chalong land price B27.5 million for 2 rai. www.phuket-land-sale.com

Makes a good condo deal now. 1-bedroom, fully furnished, 67 sqm living area. Only B2.99 mil. Big swimming pool. Normal price B3.7 mil. Call 089 872 6895.

Email: jospeder@live.no.

288 sqm of heaven. Plunge pool, 3 bed, 4 bath overlooking perfect panoramic ocean views. Beach shops, fabulous restaurants, nightlife all a 3 minute walk. B42,624,000. Contact: 088 761 4030 or imgphuket@gmail.com.

Waterfront Villa in Boatlagoon: Modern style spacious town-

206.4 sqm, Chanote title in Phanason residence(next to Makro). 1 min to Central festival, 5 min to town. Call 084 061 4314, 076 393 965.

Land for sale:

Patong Loft Condo:

Land For Sale: Mission Hills. 3/4 of rai in small community, very quiet and private, close to all services, 10 min to school, airport, beach, golf, Tesco. Was B2.5M. 087 276 0529 for info.

and infrastructure seven further plots for development. 1.5km from Mission Hills Golf Club. Please call 087 888 1761 (Aom) for details.

house. 3 large beds/4 baths. 250 Sqm. one office area and 2 balconies. One private birth for a boat up to 6 meters behind the house. freehold/leasehold.

B9.9 million. Call 082 493 8526. Email: flakes010@hotmail.com.

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Land At Kathu For Sale: Only

15 min to Patong and only 10 min to Phuket Town, located at Kathu, total 141 sqw or 564 sqm with ready public utility. Call 081 892 0610, 081 472 0770, tan_ohio@hotmail.com.

Paklok Land Only B7,999/ Sqwah: Only B7,999/Sq wah at

3 Bedroom Pool Villa, Rawai: 160m2 Private Pool Villa. 3 Bedroom, 4 Bathroom (3 En Suite), Kitchen, Dining Room, Living Room, Large Balconies & Terrace, Carport. Freehold, Chanote title. 2 minutes from beach! See proper tyforsalephuket.co.uk.

2.5 rai (N.S.-3 K document) near Kathu waterfall. 2 houses, 1 small house & 2 pools, big garage. 3 way Entrance. B28 million. Call 081 893 0540, 076 385 775 email: anong540@hotmail.com.

Land & House for sale:

7 rai with 185 metres of sea frontage. Water, electricity, road and boat access, located 800 metres from Yacht Haven marina, perfect site for small beach front development. For quick sale only B5 million per rai. Tel 081 343 0777 Email: montha_phuket@ yahoo.com.

Five Bed Luxury Villa For Sale: NEW. Beautiful lakeside villa in

Surin Beach. Private estate. 5 bedroom en-suite. Unique architectural style.

Private pool. B35.7m. To view call 083 636 0245 or villasurin7@gmail.com.

Ocean Front Land: Modern Villa in Marina:

A spacious family home in Boat Lagoon.

Modern contemporary style with 4+1 beds, 4 bathrooms. Large dining area, private swimming pool and fully furnished. Size 616 Sq.M. Call 076 238 948.

@thephuketnews

Hill Land for Sale: Very nice location hill land by the Bangwat Dam, total 60 rai, 96,000 square metre. Contact: Attapong 081 892 0610 (Thai), Jantiwa 081 890 8268 (Eng). e-mail: jantiwa_ j@ hotmail.com.

Paklok, Chanote, Mountain View, 200m from main road, 11 km from monument and 4 km to Mission Hill.

Interested or want a larger size?

CALL 084 305 6667, email: mari sar1978@hotmail.com

Zion Proper ty CO., Ltd.:

Whether you are selling, buying or renting we offer a wide selection of high quality properties, land and businesses located in the south of Thailand. Please contact us for further information. Call 080 087 1772. See zionproperty.com.

22 CLASSIFIEDS HOME IMPROVEMENT

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Specialized in large commercial and small residential cooling & heating systems.

076 319406-8 086 4702026-7 www.choochuay.com

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CLASSIFIEDS 23

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Jobs

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/thephuketnews

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New Club Opening in Phuket We are now seeking to fill in the following positions: - F&B Manager.

- VJ / Light technician.

- Promotions Manager.

- IT Technician.

- Head Chef.

- Graphic Designer.

- Assistant Head Chef.

- Assistant / Secretary / Accountant.

- Flair Bartender.

- Head of Security.

- Singer / Dancer / Performer (female).

Fluent command of English (speaking / writing). Experience in the field required. Must be hard working, flexible, professional, fun & talented. Thai applicants only.

S w i s s S e r vic e / Phon e Operator: Swiss Ser vice / Telephone Operator .Good level of English. Ability to work under pressure. Good in communication and organisation. Responsible and reliable. Minimum one year experience. Contact: HR Department, email: Humanresources.phuket@ swissotel.com or call 076 303 000.

Now. Hiring.Talent.

Assistant to Public Relations Manager Qualifications : • Bachelor in Mass Communications.

• Strong communication skills in multimedia.

• Excellent command of written and spoken English.

• Able to work independently - write a press release, photo caption, scoop article.

• Minimum 2 years of experience in hotel Public Relations.

• Proficient in MS Office application.

• Knowledge in designing software such as Adobe Illustrator will be an advantage.

WE OFFER SOME OF THE BEST SALARIES IN PHUKET…HOWEVER WE ONLY HIRE THE BEST PEOPLE…SO HAVE YOU GOT WHAT IT TAKES? Please send updated resume with photo to: clubrecruitmentpatongbeach@gmail.com

A s si st ant Sal e s M an ager: • Thai- Male/Female, 25-

35 years • Bachelor's Degree • 2 Years related sales experience • Good command of English • Good computer & communication skills • Own a car & driver license Salary + Commission + Benefits Send CV to : cj@searasports.com

F e m a l e C o o k / H o m e m a ke r Wa n t e d: Exceptional conditions for live-in cook /homemaker for semi-retired UK/Canadian businessman.

Separate high quality room with shower & T V in high - end re sor t style surroundings. Must speak English. Send resume to bggvirgo@gmail.com.

Personal Assistant

Thai Male/Female, 25-40 years, fluent in English, good computer & communication skills, self motivated, background in marketing/Real Estate/ Travel Agency is a must. Please send CV: helena@phuketabc.com

Sales Consultants Wanted: GB Automobiles is

New Hot Yoga Studio In Bangtao: New hot yoga studio in Bangtao is looking to hire enthusiastic staff - come and join our happy and healthy environment!

Thai English speaking receptionist with basic accounting skills (B20k basic per month) and a customer services assistant to operate the juice bar (B15k basic per month) are required. We are also looking to hire cleaners. Please send CVs with photos to peterantonioni@ gmail.com.

looking for Thai nationals that are fluent in English, self motivated, with a postive attitude and desire to make above average income.

Sales experience preferred but not necessary as full training provided.

Contact shoongiat@landrovergroup.net or call 081 938 8693.

Public Relations Executive Qualifications : • Bachelor in Mass Communications or related field.

• Strong communication skills in multimedia and can communicate and translate well both in Thai and English.

• Minimum 1 year of experience in Corporate Communication.

• Experience at multinational technology company preferred.

• Able to interact with all level of employees and able to work independently.

• Proficient in MS Office application.

• Knowledge in designing software such as Adobe Illustrator will be an advantage.

Start your own journey of discovery TODAY. Please send current CV to mayuree@indigo-pearl.com 076 327 006, 076 327 015 www.indigo-pearl.com Indigo Pearl Resort, Nai Yang Beach and National Park, Phuket 83110

Looking for people who love animals: and would like to do some volunteer work looking after sick, injured and homeless dogs in Thalang area. Contact: Sherin.peace@gmail.com

Couple Wanted:

Guest Service Supervisor:

Thai couple, house & pet care, work and stay at foreigner villa, speak English, no smoking, husband as driver, wife as housekeeper. Contact: aoaphuket@gmail. com 076 203 010.

Design Studio - Admin Wanted: Design Studio looking for an ambiClass Act Media is southern Thailand's most comprehensive media company, incorporating Phuket’s leading English newspaper ‘The Phuket News’, Russian language newspaper 'Novosti Phuketa', Phuket’s leading English radio station ‘Live 89.5’, Phuket English TV 'Phuket News TV' and a a host of publications & services including ‘The Phuket Colouring book’ & ‘Phuket Ticket Master’.

SALES REPRESENTATIVES Qualifications: ● Thai or Expat. ● Excellent communication and negotiation skills in Thai and English. ● Highly motivated self-starter with a positive attitude. ● Works well under pressure and has a will to succeed.

We offer: ● Competitive salary, bonuses and travel expenses. ● A friendly work environment. ● Social security paid by the company. ● Excellent career progress opportunities.

Interested applicants are invited to apply in person or send application with full resume indicating qualifications and experience, expected salary and recent photo to: adminmgr@thephuketnews.com Tel: 076 612 550-2 ext 101

Class Act Media Co., Ltd. 99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 Fax: 076 612 553

@thephuketnews

Class Act Media is southern Thailand's most comprehensive media company, incorporating Phuket’s leading English newspaper ‘The Phuket News’, Russian language newspaper 'Novosti Phuketa', Phuket’s leading English radio station ‘Live 89.5’, Phuket English TV 'Phuket News TV' and a a host of publications & services including ‘The Phuket Colouring book’ & ‘Phuket Ticket Master’.

Editor – The Phuket News Phuket’s leading English newspaper is seeking a section editor ● You will be one of three section editors, covering the areas of Film, Weird World, Technology and Sport ● The role involves a mix of writing original content, sourcing from agencies, liaising with freelancers, and working with graphic designers on page layout ● In addition to interviews and reviews, you’ll be expected to attend events on behalf of the company – these could variously be sporting, social, and advertising-related ● Applicants should have a minimum of three years’ editorial experience at magazines or newspapers ● The role is open to both Thai and foreign nationals Applications will only be accepted by email.

Please send your resume, clippings and salary expectations to: Simon Ostheimer

Managing Editor, The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

Class Act Media Co., Ltd.

99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 ext 100 Fax: 076 612 553

tious and organised person to join our team. Successful applicant will help with general office administration and the planning of photography shoot.

Applicant must have an excellent command of English. Email: photomorphic images@gmail.com.

Good command in English, customer service skills, knowledge in F&B, HK, front office, Knowledge of computer basic skills, own car with driving license, working in Phang Nga -Natai Beach. Candidate send resume to: hr@luxuryvillasandhomes.com. Office: 6/84 Srisoonthorn Rd, Cherngtalay, Thalang Phuket 83110. Call 076 527 633, 087 881 0003.

ENGLISH- SPEAKING THA I G I RL: Looking for a Thai woman with good written and spoken english for office work. Computer literacy is a must. molokophuket.com, info@molokophuket.com, Call: 084 060 7050.

Native English Teacher: Need experienced preschool teacher, 10 -14 children. Start i m m e d i a t e l y, C h a l o n g , 4 0 hour a week. Send resume to phuketteacher@yahoo.com.

Document Control Officer: JV Opportunity: JV Partner with a commercial focus sought for Phuket based company. New startup delivering a well-established world know building related system licensed exclusively for design, production and installation in Thailand.

This is an exciting opportunity for the right partner: Chris on 081 956 2966 or Chrisinphuket@ gmail.com.

Development Management Group Co., Ltd is searching for a Document Control Officer for our Patong Beach site. This administrative position controls documents and drawings for a construction site and is open for Thai Nationals only. Successful applicants will hold at least a vocational degree or certificate and have a minimum of 3 years of experience in office work.

Need proven ability to use MS Office and good English communication skills. Knowledge of engineering or construction is a plus. Call 076 617 763, email: tum@dmg-thailand.com.

24 CLASSIFIEDS

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

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BOATS & YACHTS

Boat Sales and Charters: Speed Boat For Sale:

Steppa Fiberglass 32 feet Flybridge two 200 hp Yamaha outboard engines. Ideal for diving and tours. B850,000. Call 081 8942124.

Kawasaki 750Sxi Jet Ski Pro: Stand up. Trick conversion kit, R&D ride plate, Race bars with finger throttle, Hydro-turf floor mat with foot-holds, Very reliable, fast, and great fun. Very good condition. B150,000. Contact: garysmith436@btinternet.com.

Want to build or charter your own boat to get out among Phuket’s many islands for fishing or pleasure? Then please contact the experts on 081 270 4291 or go to www. fishingboatingthailand.com.

Yacht sale 36-ft Searay:

A very good condition with bedding for 5, air-con, generator, kitchenette, BBQ grill, twin propulsion, Mercruiser 5.0L bravo III DTS, raymarine chartplotter, GPS and depth sounder. B4.5 million. Call 089 647 5204.

22m. Indonesian Pinisi Ketch: Licensed and registered

S a l e N e w B o a t S R- 21 Finished: SR.Marine. We are

in Thailand. She is in good condition and currently working as a snorkel and sunset tour boat. For sale or long-term rental. Price negotiable for quick sale. dragonheartthailand@ gmail.com.

professional boat builders. Our showroom in Phuket. This model is SR-21, finished. Price B375,000.

“This price exclude only engine”.

Email: samranmarine@live.com/ 081 782 0921.

Need to sell my SAILBOAT 2 mast 17 meter (50 c.v. Yanmar engine) excellent condition Fully equipped located in Chalong/Phuket valuated price B12 million

Now for quick sale B5.5 million include dinghy Call French: 080 035 1626 English: 081 788 8280 Email: maurice.phuket@gmail.com

Krabi Boat Lagoon: New marina sister of Phuket Boat Lagoon, ready to berthing now with marina charge 50% off and long term berth available.

Well protect by sea condition and full facilities provided.Contact Khun Choo 086 281 0330.

Luxury Yacht for Sale: For sale 2002 Bertram 510 Flybridge luxury yacht. Reduced to only USD675,000.

Contact Marcus on marcus@leema rine.net.

S a l e N e w B o a t S R-18 Finished: SR.Marine, We are professional boat builders. Our showroom in Phuket. This model is SR-18, finished. Price B295,000.

“This price exclude only engine”.

Email: samranmarine@live.com / 081 782 0921.

13 Metre Wooden Hull Cruiser: Cap. 17 PAX. Wooden hull, 3.5 meters W, draws 1.5 meters, diesel engine generates 123 KW. Perfect for fishing or day tours.

Fitted w Fish Finder and GPS. Was B1,500,000 now only B500,000. Call 082 414 6931, email: phil@krabikonnect.com.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Fa n t a s t i c B a r g a i n:

Fu l l y equipped 10m cruiser ready to sail away. Lots of gear & electronics.

Sleeps 4. Volvo diesel. Aries windvane.

Solar panels. Liferaft. GRP dinghy.

ONLY B750,000. kmdelfina@yahoo. com.

2 Language & TEFL Schools: The schools are very

40FT Steel Cutter Sloop: Ready to cruise. Centrecockpit.

Safe, strong German design. New Sails, 44HP Yanmar Engine, 6 Berths, solar, wind generator, BBQ, dinghy&outboard. AUD$110K. 085 378 0498, yacht.antaia@gmail. com.

successful due to the high de mand of people wishing to learn Engli sh as A sia devel o ps and plays a larger par t in world affairs every day. These 2 schools are lic ensed w it h t he M inist r y of Edu c at i o n an d t h e C h a - am branch also holds a TEFL license.

As part of a franchise group, you will always have on-going support for sales and training. The selling price is calculated at 5 times the net profit and with sales growth averaging over 20% year on year, your breakeven point is within 4 years. As all truly profitable business there is no negative cash f l o w. C a l l 0 81 8 4 6 919 3 . S e e insightenglish-huahin.com.

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 25

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

BUY & SELL IN PHUKET

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com BUSINESS OPP. CONT.

PHUKET ICON BUSINESS FOR SALE

COMPANY FOR SALE

PHUKET INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS COMPANY FOR SALE …

ICES CO LTD ERSAL SERV IV N ORLD U W T E E H K T U PH N WITH IO T C E N N O HT C PANDS YOUR FREIG S PHUKET EX A G IN W O R G

PHUKET, THAILAND SELF STORAGE, POTRA COM, PRE-FAB 470,000 USD

Bar for sale on Soi Bangla:

Located mid-soi on Bangla, Patong Beach. Contact now for best units & special offers on pre-sales. 3 year contract. Price starting B1.7million. Call 08 5887 7414.

WWW.SAFEWAYASIA.COM

 20 YEAR PROFITABLE OPERATION  50 MB PLUS TURNOVER 2012 CALANDAR YEAR

+66 81 892 4804, gordon_asia@hotmail.com

www.phukettransport.com CONTACT PETER: peterb@interglobalau.com PHONE: 0848433492

BUSINESS SERVICES Farang Food Paradise:

Unique Rawai Investment Oppor tunity: We

Boutique Guesthouse & Bar: Boutique Guesthouse, Bar /

Restaurant business for sale. Fully equipped rooms and bar, website and facebook page established.

Well situated only three minutes walk from both Kamala beach and main road with all their amenities.

B1,500,000. Contact: 084 442 7015.

25 year lease for sale. Well situated in fast developing and sought after area close to Laguna. Some fixed rent applies. Contact 087 884 0644 for more info.

2 Rai, Cherngtalay:

URGENT Boutique Hotel for Lease: A small boutique Patong Beach hotel offer for long term lease. Location: Patong beach front ocean panoramic view. 18 rooms, aircon. internet, cable TV, telephone, safe, full furnished. Contact: 076 342 197-8, K.Thanin,K.Tum.

run a business in Chalong that has paid back 50% of its cash investment in the first year of operation. An opportunity for a similar business exists in Rawai.

This is not a hotel, guest house, restaurant, dive shop, car rental or real estate. This business benefits Thai society as a whole and is environmentally neutral.

We are looking for 1-3 equity investors to make a total 20 million Baht investment. E-mail: tayana55islandgirl@yahoo.com

5 In 1 Business For Sale:

Guest house & Business: For sale / rent long term. 400 sq m. (N.S.-3 K document) next to Swissotel Kamala.

500 m from Kamala beach. B32 million.

Call 081 893 0540, 076 385 775 email: anong540@hotmail.com.

Good location, 1 1/4 Rai. 1) Jungle bar, 3 TVs, 2 pool tables, seating: 65 pax, parking: 15-16 vehicles, good business. 2) Beauty salon: fully equipped. 3) Massage pallor.

4) Restaurant. 5) Indoor pub: fully equipped, stage, seating: 70 pax.

Lease for 8 years+6 months left on lease. Sale: 5.7 MB. Negotiable!

Contact: five.business@yahoo. com, 091 654 1720, 087 892 6204, (Russian) 085 709 9191 (Thai) (English) 091 654 1720.

Sale Bar, Hotel + 1 Shop Rawai Beach: Land plot 700 sq

metre+building+10 bed+10 bath+2 restaurants. Newly renovated. Private financing by owner. Down B2 million + 13 yearly payment of 1MB. Own forever title land. 100 metres to Rawai landing pier. 084 242 8914, rawai4@ yahoo.com.

Your specialist of imported food and drinks in Phuket. Visit our shop at the Billion Plaza, opposite Tesco Lotus. Contact: 076 612 733, 076 248 900 or visit: www.phuketfood.com.

Commuter Van For Sale: 2012 Toyota Commuter Van – Low mileage 13,500 kilometers. Loaded, leather seats, back up camera, video system. Only B900,000. Contact via email: martin@phuketfish boat.com.

Tile I t: Thalang.

Wana Park on Srisoonthor n Rd. Phuket ’s quality tile boutique.

Tiles for interior, exterior, residential, commercial.

Contact 076 620 168 or 081 424 2828. Email info@ tile-asia.com.

CARS FOR SALE

Pa t o n g N ew H o t e l f o r Longterm Lease: 40 rooms

Honda CR-V 2002/Gold 64,000 Km: Used cars -Honda

with full furnished, TV, fridge, aircon, hot water, swimming pool, restaurant and spa. Located in Soi Nanai villa.

Contact 086 300 9406.

Isuzu D-max super platinum 3.0L: Bought on 04/2010. Check up every each 59,000 km. High class surround, navigator, many extras.

Norber t 080 878 35 42 GER /ENG Price : B690,000. Email: norberts923@ gmail.com

Restaurant/Pub: For sale in Bang Tao Beach Road. Get 10 year contract, great location 50m from Best Western Hotel & Beach. Full furniture and equipment. Price B2.5 million. Call 087 893 8590, Email: somtom_landandhouse@yahoo.de

Restaurant / Guesthouse: Established restaurant covering two shop houses with private terrace and owners apartment or 8 room guesthouse. Freehold (no lease/rent). Includes all equipment and newly renovated kitchen. Contact for details. Projected ROI 4 years. Call 081 956 3166.

Sport Club for Sale by Owner: Set on 4 rai land with

Ready Mixed Concrete Company’s factory. 446.92 Horse power. Output of workers in the production of 22 people per day at an average yield of about 100 Q/Day (B1,800/Q) average revenue per day for about B180,000. Manufacture of ready-mixed concrete. Can continue immediately. Just buy a cement truck then start delivery.

Ready water source to be used for production. Address: Moo. 4 T. Maikhao Thalang Dist. Phuket 83110. Land Size: 20 rai 2 Ngan and 56 talang wah. Price: B130 Million. Contact: Mr. Lee, mobile: 081 803 7189.

@thephuketnews

CR-V 2.0E (i-VTEC) with clean condition and no bad accidents.

Top and full option with com plete book service and manual.

Year:20 02,Engine Size: 20 0 0 cc.,Fuel: Petrol.081 818 9696.

G u e s t h o u s e Ca f e B a r Karon Beach: Easily managed Restaurant/Guesthouse for sale: Located in Kamala.

40 metres to the beach. 10 rooms with full furnishings. Restaurant 54 seats. Price B8 million. For more information call 081 396 0033.

Business for sale

Cement Production Plant:

For Sale: Nissan Tida year 2010 in excellent condition, full options, low kilometers, first class insurance and registration till Jun 2014. First to see will buy. B399,000 O.N.O. Call 082 279 9370.

full chanote title. Include tennis court, volleyball court, fishing lake, game room, restaurant and bar and separate guest bungalow for sale or long term lease. Call +66 81 569 6026, +61 498 248 656 (English & Thai) Email:patbittersweet@gmail. com. See www.phuketsport.com.

Business only or business and property. Est 2003. Repeat business from big data base, non-tourist related soft furnising manufacturing and retail business. Genuine enquires only, no tyre kickers.

2 Business For Sale: Good location, Rawai Area -1) Restaurant – 40 pax - leased out 2) Indoor pub: fully equipped, disco - stage, seating:70 pax. Lease - 8 years+6 months left on lease.Sale:2.9 MB Negotiable. 087 892 6204, 087 244 1322, 091 654 1720.

For further info email samos1941@gmail.com.

Patong Massage Shop For Sale: Cosy renovated shop. Shop is located inside a hotel on a busy street directly leading to Patong Beach. Business from hotel customers as well as from many tourists going to/from Patong Beach. Email: chumpo26@hotmail.com.

profitable business lease 5.2M. Fully refurbished, 6 year contract(fully pre-paid). Low rent. Busy Soi 2minutes from the beach. 5 beautiful en-suite rooms. Sports bar, fully fitted kitchen and restaurant area.

Account available. Call 081 891 9461 / livingroom-phuket.com.

Bar for sale: Very Busy Mushroom

bar for sale in Soi Bel Air. Wally Bar, all stock, T.V. sound system, beer boxes and fridges included in sale, rent, only B10,000 monthly. Only B600,000 ono. 086 725 0771.

3 Business For Sale: Good location, Rawai Area. 1) Big Bar, 3 TVs, 2 pool tables, seating: 60 pax, parking: 10 vehicles, good business.

2) Massage parlor – leased out 3) Beauty salon: fully equipped. Lease 8 years+6 months left on lease - Have owned business for 8 years - Sale: 2.9 MB. Negotiable! 087 892 6204, 091 654 1720.

Mini Cooper S JCW GP for sale: Only 2000 made worldwide.

Per fect condition, 20 0 6, manual, 17,500 km, 218 hp supercharged, high end hifi, Recaro seats, Book Service, Ultimate Mini. Collectors item. B1.6m, 089 866 3756 (Eng/Th) frankdreist@ hotmail.com.

Toyota Vios For Sale:

2007 lady owner perfect condition B359,000. Tel 081 125 1873, gordon_asia@hotmail.com.

26 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

BUY & SELL IN PHUKET

Nissan NV 1.6 Pick up:

4x4, 3.0 Diesel, model 2007, mileage 87,000 km only, first owner, all service by Toyota, new tires, beige interior, Alpha Canopy/front Bull bar. Call 086 943 8989 Chalong.

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com CHILDCARE

CARS FOR SALE CONT.

Toyota Hilux VIGO 4 x4 Auto: Toyota Hilux VIGO, 4 door,

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

Had car for 6 years, no problems, excellent condition engine, body, automatic, overnight lock, very good ride. B150,000. Pure Honda rotary mower, like new. Call English 082 516 8717, Thai 086 079 0890.

Phuket’s oldest international childcare facility.

High-quality, time-proven schedule and curriculum. Now in brand-new purpose-built school. Experienced native English teachers to teach ages 1 1/2-8. Mon-Fri 8am-5pm.

Bus service available from Patong, Karon, Kata, Phuket, Rawai and Chalong. Tel: 076 384 638, 080 624 7060. Website: www.budsphuket.com.

Buds Nursery:

CLUBS & MEMBERSHIPS Isuzu Dmax 2006, 105,000km, one owner, 4x2, silver automatic, double cab, good condition. Contact 087 079 0650 or 080 073 5371.

Isuzu Dmax:

Phuket Country Club Membership: Lifetime full family mem-

HONDA CITY '03 1.5AT, 118XXXkm: Very reliable and

user-friendly car, carefully used for last 3 years. Good condition with some wears. Clean interior, good car audio, fresh tires. Best choice for young family. Honda serviced only. Price B218,000.

Call 083 102 0070.

bership (man, wife and limitless kids) at Phuket Country Club. Seller leaving Phuket hence only B570,000 ono.

Transfer fees and this years subscription included. Call 081 273 7326.

PERSONAL SERVICES

POOL TABLES

PUBLIC NOTICES GENNEWA GOLD MEMBERS: Attention Gennewa Gold members. Please contact urgently. randyalltime@gmail.com

Blue Canyon Golf Membership: Blue Canyon Golf Lifetime

membership for sale! Excellent saving!

B89,500 Call 084 052 2277.

SPORTING GOODS & EXERCISE

Golf Membership for Sale: Loch Palm 500,000 Baht.

Buyer pays for transfer. 083 388 5566. Email borst.jg@gmail.com

Nissan NV 1.6 Pick Up, 2006: One hand, private. Only 96,000 km. Looks like new. The car is totally revised for B100,000. Fast and agile. B220,000. Contact Yupin English and Thai: 081 817 4805.

COOKING CLASS Phuket Cooking Academy: Honda CR-V top model year 2010 for sale, engine 2400cc, 4WD White colour, black leather interior, one owner used only 43280km, very excellent condition.

Contact Cat: Tel 084 744 4304 for info.

Honda CR-V for Sale:

CHILDREN’S CLUB Mercedes E220 For Sale:

Mercedes E220 Year 1995 for urgent sale, great condition, always ser viced on time, drives like a dream. Price: B370,000 negotiable.

Contact: Mr. Lee on 081 803 7189.

Family sports and leisure club. Swimming/golf/ playcentre/ gaming arcade. Contact 076 203 185, 087 882 5544. See funstartphuket.com.

FunStart:

Cooking and baking classes have never been more fun using our topclass professional facilities. With complimentary transport from around the island, head to the best Masterchef kitchen on the island. Learn the tricks of the trade from international award winning Chef, Lionel Raiffort. Learn how to cook, from Thai & European cuisines, to the art of baking. Get involved and make a day of it, groups are welcome. For more information, visit www.phuket-cooking-academy. com or call 081 821 4064.

Online health food in Thailand. Good karma, all natural, healthy, and organic products. Please contact 082 276 1675, w w w.good karmathailand.com.

Hi there! My name is Lucy, would you like to be my friend and take care of me? I am only 1 year old and very sweet! If you want more information please call: Sherin 084 877 3566

Home Needed:

MOVING & STORAGE

Backgammon: Play-

ers Wanted. Tel: 081 577 8443, email: phuketcon nection@yahoo.com

Looking for a VISA Service?

Visa to China, India or Shenzen & no need to fly to Bangkok. Check all procedures by email to jryjariya@ gmail.com or contact 080 887 4431.

Authentic 7ft SOVEREIGN ‘New Orleans’: Coin-operated

Custom Trek MTB HardTail: Trek 8 Series Alu Frame,

Pool Tables at SPECIAL low price of B49,900 Only from Patanakarn Billiards PHUKET. All Accessories incl. Offer ends 31/8/13 Call 081 171 2121, 076 521 21

20.5 inch (180 cm+) pimped in white.

Fuji/ XT/ Deore drive train. XT SIS disk Brakes, Custom Alex/ Veulta wheels, Sock Shox SID Team front shox. SuperFly bike. Call 081 737 0722.

7th Floor Suites (Hotel) Building For Sale Kata Beach Center 9 apar tments and a 300 sqm Penthouse on the roof plus fully equipped restaurant and pool with terrace are free of rent and now available.

Price total 38 million Baht (9.50.000.euro) include chanote and Thai company.

We Sell Boxes & Moving Supplies: At MY STORAGE Self

Storage you can buy quality moving and packing supplies like individual boxes, bubble wrap, packing tapes & knives plus secure padlocks. We also help you to move and store. Call 076 292 909.

2 Kites, used 2-3 times. New price was more then 200,000 Baht. Sell altogether for 100,000 Baht. For single items please call: 086 747 9292 (English) or 081 970 520.

PET ADOPTION

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS FOR SALE Health Food:

Kite Surf Equipment for Sale: 2 new boards, never used.

Best buy / Best Price!: Phuket Pool Tables offer you the best deals on 2 models of our pool tables, 4’x8’, slate bed, full accessories included, free installation and advise. Come, try, and play before you buy it. Call 081 823 4627.

Mum & Puppy Need a Home Lady & Yam-Lai are abandoned and in desperate need of a loving home. Mum 1.5 years & Puppy 4 Months old female. I have boarded them at Surin Beach Pet Hospital.

For serious interest email: thewhitehousekata@gmail.com for RUSSIAN; Ms. Oxana Email: phuket.lux@gmail.com

WE ARE LOOKING FOR A NEW HOME

But this is not a long term solution and the dogs can not just be put out on the street as they need an owner. They are both the most beautiful girls who want nothing more than you to love them.

Wonderful with other dogs and great with children. Beaut i f u l l ov i n g w e l l m a n n e r e d girls. They can go together or separately. Call 081 271 3211, email: sonyaklapko@yahoo.com.

Several rescued dogs, cute, cuddly & groomed ready to be loved. For more photos visit ww.doggieheaven.net Or contact: Sherin.peace@gmail.com ***Vaccinated & sterilised

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

PHUKET SPORT

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

27

The hunt for El Dorado CAST AWAY Jim Stewart editor@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, JULY 26 SAW the storms subside and Nick and a few friends from Singapore ventured out on Mena 1. Proving a good “stir-up” is good for the fishing, we recorded 48 tuna, one 8.5 kg Wahoo, a good sized ‘Long Tom’ and a small ‘Queenie’.

A trip on Sunday (July 28) brought in 56 tuna and a 4 kg Wahoo, with Dan and his pals from Phuket Fit Resort as our motley crew. Non-stop action all the way!

Well done the wind and rain gods, fantastic days out with great company. So for all you guys and gals out there who fancy fishing in the “low season”, firstly check out the local weather on magicseaweed. com and if the swell is 1.5m or less and the time between is 8 seconds or more you could be in for an extraordinary experience, evading our regular annual storms.

Now, some years ago while visiting Jamaica I was told by the Rastas that crushed Dorado heads made great fish soup, an aphrodisiac “which puts Viagra to shame, Mon”.

A local fishing personality, Brian of Mad Mohally’s, Rawai, a friend with numerous I.G.F.A. (International Game Fishing Association) world records and considerable global experience, confirmed that the Rastas were not joking.

Unfortunately, there has been a dearth of Dorado recently as I am enthusiastically waiting to try out this recipe and notice that the price of fish heads, especially Dorado, seems unduly expensive

@thephuketnews

in relation to the rest of the fish. Food for thought?

While on the subject of international anglers, Neill of the PGFC (Phuket Game Fishing Club) has just returned from another fishing expedition to Vancouver Island, Canada, with some fantastic tails.

No heads, just tails.

Our intrepid Fisheroo won the prize for the largest salmon and second biggest halibut, but had to give up fishing around midday as the participants had all reached their legal quota.

So following on from my previous article, it just goes to prove that conservancy measures do work, when, unlike here, they are taken seriously and enforced.

Neil l, I hop e you have no problems getting through customs with your vacuum packed catch as your last contribution to my fridge was most appreciated. Lip-smacking good.

The annual P.I.S.T. (Phuket Inter national Sportsfishing Tournament) has an “early bird” registration policy that expires on September 15, a good discount if you book early for the competition, which will be held from November 14 to 16.

Get on to our pal Uwe at uweschittek@yahoo. com and register before the 15th and save, save, save.

For those who don’t know the competition, it’s a three day event, returning to port each evening to weigh-in and have a few beers. A casual tournament, very professionally run and Phuket’s longest running angling competition.

As usual, tight lines to all.

Jimmy fishinginphuket.com

The Islanders kick it on Karon beach FOOTBALL

Kazira Hans editor@classactmedia.co.th

W

ith no games to play due to Liverpool playing the Thai national side, Phuket FC footballers and coaches spent last weekend on a team-building break at the Phuket Orchid Resort in Karon.

Eam Thavornwongvongse, vice president of the Phuket

Sports Association, welcomed footballers and coaches to the event. He remarked that their first teambuilding event, which was held earlier this season, had had a very positive effect on footballers as they got to know one another, relaxed and enjoyed their time off from training.

“I believe that this event will build their sense of team and strengthen their friendship, so we will have a strong Phuket FC ready to secure

promotion to the Thai Premier League,” he said.

Nene Bi said that everyone in the team, footballers, coaches and administrative staff alike, will benefit from the event, commenting that it is a good thing for Phuket FC footballers to get to wind down and relax before they get back in the stadium for their next battle.

“It is important that we have a good understanding in the team, everybody is like

a puzzle that completes the picture, part of the force that drives Phuket FC forward.

“Everybody had fun, there were good laughs, we learned team spirit and to help one another. After this relaxing weekend, we’ll be ready for our next game” Phuket FC play TTM FC tomorrow (August 3) at Surakul stadium. Kick off is at 6.30pm, entrance is B100.

See full match preview on page 29.

MAC ATTACK Thanyapura’s Director of Sport Academies, Craig Johns (far left), welcomes four times World Champion Triathlete Chris “Macca” McCormack (centre) to the facility.

Macca was on site at Thanyapura to complete both training and filming for the Challenge Laguna Phuket Tri-Fest event.

Thanyapura has recently signed an agreement as a partner with Challenge Laguna Phuket TriFest Race and also full rights to host the Thanyapura Junior Challenge Triathlon event on November 30, 2013.

Class Act Media wins go-kart cup C L A S S AC T M E D I A proved last Sunday night that it was not just in the island’s media stakes where it is number one, but also in go kart races too.

Beating the Kata Rocks team by a 10th of a second overall, the Class Act Media team, made up of Jason Wilder (pictured right), Kirsty Meyer and Sam Clarke from Live 89.5, Jody Houton from The Phuket News, and Sash Steffen and Alice Na Takuatung from Phuket News TV, won the Lions Go-Karts Team Championships held in Chalong last night (July 28).

Stern faces and fastidious checks of the course belied the fact that it was in fact all for charity.

B30,000 proceeds from the event (each participating team had to pay B6,000) will

be donated to Patong Beach Lions Club’s Eyesight Improvement Programme at three local schools.

Nearly 600 children at Baan Bang Thong School in Kathu; Baan Bang Khu School in Koh Kaew and Baan Bang Rong School in Phak Lok will have their eyes tested by the club’s partners in this project – K T Optics. Any child found to be in need of prescription glasses will receive them free of charge.

Khun Mai won the inaugural Miss Go Kart beauty competition, taking home B3,000.

RESULTS Team competition

Winners: Class Act Media (Jody Houton; Jason Wilder; Sam Clarke/ Kirsty Meyer; Alice Nataku; Sascha Steffen 2nd Place: Kata Rocks (Chantal Fernandes; Bryan Hoare; Bilijay West; Sommai K; Teera Iedyaw 3rd Place: The Teachers (Mike Hall; Brady Bryan; Paul Flaxman; Simon O’Herlihy; Adam Blackmore) Fastest Lap: Alex Kovacs (St James Property – Emerald Terrace Condo) Fastest Lady: Irene Von Rooyen (St James Property – Oceana Condo) Spirit Of Race: Chantal Fernandes (Kata Rocks)

Miss Go-Karts 2013

Winner: Wiyanan “Mai” Wanchan (Kata Rocks) Runner-up: Ketsara “Apple” Sattayakun (St James Property)

28 PHUKET SPORT

Super Six: Round 10 FOOTBALL Karl Ward editor@classactmedia.co.th

P Cocooned by the barrel SURF SPOT Tim Campbell editor@classactmedia.co.th

M Y EY E M EETS T H E reflection of the setting sun as a glassy rolling wave approaches. A quick turn and I effortlessly glide onto the motion of the peaking wave.

Feet land in position, knees bent, and my focus is now down the line of this long sparking aqua coloured surge.

My brain in a trance-like state, time seems still as the lip of the wave hugs itself over, cocooning me.

My hand runs along the face of the wave as it continues to hold its perfect shape, each second feeling like a lifetime, a surreal feeling like being placed in another dimension.

I’m now locked into a place of no control, the power of nature has me in its clasp and I’m at the mercy of its doing. I stretch out my eyes in sight of an opening.

As I see light, a building surge from behind takes hold and spits me out of the wave’s

mouth accelerating me out into the clear and leaving me with sense of ‘Whaaaaaaat, did that really happen?’. It’s like falling back into reality after spending time in that Narnian wardrobe.

You check yourself that all’s attached and you’re still breathing, then the rush of adrenaline that has been firing this whole time comes to play and all you can think about is, ‘Let’s do that again’.

Inside the barrel of a wave (also known as the green room) is an addictive place to be, and when you speak to all surfers their ultimate goal is to find themselves lucky enough that they get to experience such moments.

To some its these moments that lead their life on a journey of searching for perfect waves year after year. People want to know if they have been inside the barrel, trust me if you have you’ll know!

Tim’s Tip: When barrel riding, stay low and look down the line of the wave, not around you.

Surf’s up Phuket!

Tim Campbell skylaphuket.com

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

huket Condos & Homes stay en route for the Division 1 title, although they only have a 3-point advantage over challengers Joy Dive FC. Next week, these two teams meet, in a match which may very well be decisive for the championship.

Division 1 Sarnfan FC v Seduction: 10 – 2 Sarnfan FC (formerly known as Great Bangkok) got back to winning ways in a 10-2 win against struggling Seduction, who find themselves at the bottom of the table Shakers FC v Pita Bar Phuketeers: 2 – 5 Shakers FC were looking to build on their recent impressive form and climb higher up the table in this match against Pita Bar Phuketeers.

Shakers started best, gaining a 2-0 advantage after only 10 minutes, and it should have been more. Instead, Pita Bar came back to make it 2-2 before the break, and thereafter turned up the heat to grind out a 5-2 win.

Joy Dive FC v Irish Times: 9 – 1 It took only 4 minutes for Joy Dive to make it 4-0 in this game, and although the pace slowed down, Joy Dive FC comfortably won the game 9-1 against The Irish Times, to maintain pressure at the

top of table.

Phuket Condos & Homes v TT Boys: 8 – 4 No stopping Phuket Condos & Homes as they put 8 goals past TT Boys to make it 8-4.

PC&H are now in the lead with 3 points margin and only 5 rounds to go.

Division 2 9th Floor v Sovrana Lounge Bar: 4 – 4 A high-paced affair saw these two struggling teams draw even 4-4.

Phuket Serenity Villas v Rose United: 3 – 9 Rose United jumped back to the top of the table in Division 2 after a huge 9-3 win against Phuket Serenity Villas.

Division 3 Nong Ice FC v Grizzly’s FC: 3 – 6 Grizzly’s FC retained their second place on the table after a comeback-victory against Nong Ice FC. Daohang FC v Two Chefs: 13 – 4 Daohang FC rolled over the Two Chefs in an immense 13-4 goal fest.

Banana FC v Raumpheun Coffee Club: 4 – 2 Banana FC with another consecutive victory that helps them climb the table in a 4-2 win against Raum-pheun Coffee Club.

Bat Fire v Mew FC: 1 – 3 Mew FC stay in touch with the top teams after a 3-1 win against Bat Fire, who now find themselves second from bottom.

Phuket Super Six League Division 1

Team

MP

W

D

L

F

GD

1

Phuket Condos & Homes

9

8

0

1

61

44

Pts 24

2

Joy Dive FC

9

7

0

2

41

21

21

3

TT Boys

8

5

0

3

27

-1

15

4

Sarnfan FC

9

4

1

4

30

4

13

5

Pita Bar Phuketeers

8

4

1

3

26

-1

13

6

Shakers FC

10

4

1

5

25

-2

13

7

Irish Times

10

1

1

8

17

-35

4

8

Seduction

9

0

2

7

15

-30

2

Division 2

Team

MP

W

D

L

F

GD

Pts

1

Rose United

9

5

1

3

44

11

16

2

Big Apple & Pita

9

5

1

3

30

6

16

3

KTM Phuket

8

5

1

2

29

2

16

4

Gang Junior

8

4

3

1

25

2

15

5

Phuket Serenity Villas

10

4

2

4

39

-5

14

6

Mr. Moo

8

4

1

3

32

5

13

7

Sovrana Lounge Bar

10

2

2

6

39

-3

8

8

9th Floor

10

0

3

7

23

-18

3

Pts

Division 3

MP

W

D

L

F

GD

1

Team Daohang FC

10

9

1

0

83

59

28

2

Mew FC

10

5

3

2

29

1

18

3

Raum-pheun Coffee Club

10

3

2

5

30

-10

11

4

Banana FC

10

3

1

6

31

-10

10

5

Two Chefs

10

3

1

6

36

-24

10

6

Bat Fire

9

2

2

5

22

-9

8

7

Nong Ice FC

10

1

3

6

30

-14

6

Hash House Harriers Run 1432: 4pm, Saturday August 3 Hares: No Hope, Singha, Golden Rain & Queen of Puke

Fine Indian Cuisine • Finest Indian Food • Air-conditioned Restaurant

Hashers at last Saturday’s run at ‘Mosquito Lake’.

Photo: Angeles Aliangan

Directions: Bang Jo area. From Heroines Monument turn left (west) towards Cherng Talay. After approx 5.4km turn right at the Hash Sign towards Bang Jo (road #4015 ).

Follow the road for 1.7 km and turn left into the rubber at the HHH sign. Park between the trees, beer truck will be signposted. From Cherng Talay head east past the Police Station towards Heroines Monument. After approx 1.6km turn left at the Hash sign towards Bang Jo (road #4015) then as above. There can be leeches in this area at this time of year so wear long socks. Hash Quack will deal with any suckers after the run if required.

More info: phuket-hhh.com

• Indian Takeaway / Delivery Service • Open Daily From 12 noon Until 10.30pm

Bangtao Place and Entrance to Laguna

www.deepavaliphuket.com

0807 223377 www.loungephuket.com

Bangkok Beer & Beverages, island's largest wholesaler of 500+ premium beverages from 12 countries.

Ask for our extensive portfolio: bart@bbb.co.th and visit www.bbb.co.th for more info.

Tel: 076-200751-3, Fax: 076-200754 thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

PHUKET SPORT 29

Islanders take on TTM FOOTBALL

Kazira Hans editor@classactmedia.co.th

s the transfer window closed on July 24, Phuket FC had signed 11 new footballers with the hope of boosting their chance of winning, and promotion to the Thai Premier League.

However, fans are increasingly unhappy with coach Paniphol ‘Tuu’ Kerdyaem’s performance on the sidelines.

He has been given the nickname ‘Tuu Taem Diaw’ (Tuu One Point), which has gone from being tongue-incheek to a direct insult as he has achieved more draws than wins from 18 games this season.

Some fans demanded his resignation after Arj-harn Song-ngamsab, Nakhon Ratchasima FC’s head coach, resigned after the Swat Cat’s two consecutive losses, the last straw being a loss to lowly TTM FC. One fan said, “The coach must be held responsible, it’s that simple. Arj-harn is a true

A

gentleman. He failed, he took responsibility and resigned.

“Look at us – we have good football players, a top boss backing the team, and we can only get 1 point from each game. I’d rather the team win one game and lose one, get 3 points, than to draw 2 games with 2 points.”

There were discussions among fans that the game against TTM tomorrow will be the ultimate challenge for coach and team.

Paniphol’s career is hanging by a thread. He has to win big, with a beautiful football game. Fans strongly believe that if Phuket FC lose this game, or even draw, the coach should be ousted.

“This is the best team we have ever had,” said the fan.

“We can’t let one coach ruin our shot at the Thai Premier League because he doesn’t know how to use the footballers to their full potential.

“If he loses this game, he must go – and measures will be taken to make that happen.”

The 1-1 draw at Bangkok FC last time out was also a big factor.

Thai Division 1 Team

Striker Ludovick Takam.

With 7 minutes left, a field microphone picked up coach Tuu’s order to Thongchai, who was setting up a free kick: “Champ [Thongchai’s nickname], slow down! There are only 7 minutes left.”

Fans were infuriated. They thought the coach was content with a draw, getting 1 point from Bangkok FC, instead of pressing for a winning goal.

With a break last weekend as the national team played Liverpool, coach believes that good rest is a must. As such, his training will keep footballers strong and ready for tomorrow’s TTM game.

“Coach Tuu” Panipol Kerdyam is confident be-

Tuk-Tuk FC win cup FOOTBALL

Karl Ward editor@classactmedia.co.th

LAST SATURDAY (JULY 27) saw the finals of the prestigious Maimorn Cup 2013, which hosted 32 of the best football teams in Phuket competing for a B50,000 prize.

Several foreigners featured in the top three teams this season, including top scorer of the tournament Ryan Adekoya.

The prestigious final of the tournament was between renowned teams The Hulk and

@thephuketnews

They’re all winners. From left: Chaiwat Tanthatemee, Andres Pira, Jacopo Jajo, Ryan Adekoya, Phyo Nay. Tuk-Tuk FC. It was the latter with Jacopo Jajo from Italy who eventually took the lead, but The Hulk were quick to come back with goals by Ryan Adekoya, making it 3-3 at the

break. Tuk-Tuk secured the honors with a single brilliant goal in a 4-3 win.

In the runners-up final, Andes Pira’s Phuket Condos & Homes beat Toobo’eh United.

MP W

D

L

F

4

2

23

GD Pts

8

0

22

15

41

4

5

31

11

34

4

41

10

33

1

Air Force United FC

19

13

2

PTT Rayong FC

19

11

3

Singh Tarua FC

19

10

4

Bangkok FC

19

9

6

5

Saraburi FC

19

7

7

5

23

6

28

6

Phuket FC

19

6

10

3

23

5

28

7

Trat FC

19

7

6

6

33

1

27

8

Nakon Rachasima FC

19

6

8

5

22

5

26

9

Nakhon Pathom United

19

6

8

5

25

4

26

10

BBCU FC

19

6

8

5

20

-3

26

11

Krabi FC

19

6

3

10

20

-7

21

12

Ayutthaya FC

19

4

8

7

16

-4

20

13

Sri Racha FC

19

5

4

10

25

-5

19

14

Khon Kaen FC

19

4

7

8

20

-9

19

15

TTM FC

19

4

7

8

14

-9

19

16

Siam Navy

19

4

5

10

21

-9

17

17

Rayong FC

19

2

9

8

24

-11

15

18

Rayong United

19

3

4

12

21

-11

13

cause he will have all his key footballers back from injuries, including goalie Adisak Doungsri who’s been off for nearly two months; and Yusuke Sato, who is fit again after suffering an injury during the Thai Com FA Cup match against SCG Muang Thong Utd. Coach Tuu will have Doumeng and Eak-artit in midfield, with more strikers

11

43

than ever before to choose from. Ludovick Takam and Sukree E-tae played very well together in the last game, while Cristian Alex and Dudu will bring Samba flavour to Surakul stadium.

Coach Tuu has said that despite TTM being in 15th place, they can’t be underestimated. TTM is a side without many stars – the few exceptions are their experienced

and highly skilled African players – with most of their players from the youth team.

Coach Tuu’s game plan will be to play safe. He’ll attack and press for goals, but will tell his players not to get too carried away by the tempo of the game and leave themselves exposed to TTM’s fierce counter play, as Krabi FC and Nakhon Ratchasima FC did earlier this season.

TT M’s Af r ican duo, Cameroonian top scorer Didier Sohna (11) and Nigerian striker Alfred, number 25, will cause trouble in front of the Phuket goal. And if not careful, their long distance shots can be deadly.

Phuket FC won 1-0 away from home on their first encounter, but TTM have come a long way since then. Their last three games were a draw with PTT Rayong and wins over Krabi FC and Nakhon Ratchasima FC. Phuket FC play TTM FC on Saturday, August 3 at Surakul Stadium.

Kick-off is at 6.30pm.

Pick up your free match guide at the stadium.

30 THAILAND SPORT

Premier League teams count cost of Asia tours FOOTBALL THE PREMIER LEAGUE’S top teams swarmed to Asia chasing the region’s growing wealth and unquenchable thirst for English football, but they go home counting the fitness costs. At least two key players -- Jan Vertonghen of Spurs and Matija Nastasic of Manchester City -- suffered injuries during lucrative friendlies that could see them miss the start of the season, which kicks off in under three weeks.

Ma nchest e r Un ited’s Wayne Rooney was in Bangkok for less than 24 hours when he sustained a hamstring injury in training and was immediately sent back to Britain for rehabilitation.

He is at least expected back before the start of the season and is pencilled in for a return on August 6.

Trips to Asia are becoming a hugely important revenue source for clubs keen to cash in on television and sponsorship deals, fees from friendly matches and sales of official merchandise.

But while the clubs’ moneymen rub their hands together at the ever-increasing demand for live appearances

across the continent, coaches and players alike have admitted the demanding schedule is exhausting.

Spurs manger Andre Villas-Boas was in open revolt after seeing Vertonghen, a first-choice defender, pick up an ankle injury playing on a surface in Hong Kong that his Sunderland counterpart Paolo Di Canio branded “a killer pitch”.

Manchester United were the most ambitious, jet-setting on a whistlestop tour of Thailand, Australia, Japan and Hong Kong. They played five times in just 17 days.

Their manager David Moyes said it was inevitable players would pick up minor injuries in such a tight schedule.

“When you’ve been away for three weeks and played the games in quick succession and had to travel there’s always going to be slight niggles and strains which you want to protect,” he said.

Liverpool were also in town, playing friendlies in Indonesia, Australia and Thailand that racked up a total of seven goals, but thankfully for manager Brendan Rodgers there were no significant injury worries. AFP

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

Thongchai for Presidents?

GOLF

A

sian Tour hero Thongchai Jaidee hopes to play his way into the International Team for the Presidents Cup in October to complete a personal milestone of featuring in every major golf competition.

The Thai, who is the only man to win three Asian Tour Order of Merit titles, is currently one rung outside the automatic top-10 selection into captain Nick Price’s team to face the United States and has three more tournaments, starting with the final Major of the year, the PGA Championship next week, to qualify.

“I need to play well in my next three tournaments before the cut-off. If I do, then I can get into the top-10. I don’t mind the pressure of trying to improve my 11th position.

“If I can get in, it will be good for my country and Asia.

It would also be something new in my career, I have played in every Major championship, all the World Golf Championships events and also the World Cup. “However, I’ve not played in the Presidents Cup. It would be something special in my career,” said Thongchai, who has registered seven top-10s

including a runner-up finish at the Volvo World Match Play Championship this season.

Currently ranked 58th in the world, Thongchai trails 10-placed Tim Clark of South Africa by a mere 0.05 points on the Official World Golf Ranking. The former Thai paratrooper will also play in the Johnnie Walker Championship in Scotland before defending his title at the Wales Open at the end of August.

The cut-off for the top10 selection is September 2 while the team captains will announce two wild card picks two days later.

“I spoke to International Captain Nick Price during the U.S. Open [in June]. He was encouraging me to keep playing well and to qualify for the team. I have known him for a long time as we’ve played together on numerous occasions. It will be great to be

in his team,” said the 43-yearold Thongchai, holder of 13 Asian Tour victories.

Thongchai is determined to earn automatic selection after missing out on a captain’s wild card four years ago after just finishing outside the top-10.

“There are many good players in contention for the International Team. If I play well, it will good enough. I will try in my next three tournaments. I was close several years ago but I wasn’t picked.”

Currently in his hometown of Lopburi, north of Bangkok, Thongchai is recharging his batteries after playing in five tournaments during a six-week stretch which culminated with a tied 32nd finish at the British Open at Muirfield.

“I’m still working on getting stronger,” he said. “I’ve worked on my putting and also with my short game. I have not played at Oak Hill [site of the PGA Championship] before and being a Major, I expect to be tough.

“I know the golf course quite well at the Johnnie Walker Championship and enjoyed a top-10 there previously. And then, I’ll be looking forward to defending my title in Wales.

That win was certainly one of my biggest of my career,” added Thongchai.

Tasteless Reds banner sparks disgust during Liverpool match PHUKET’S EXCLUSIVE RESIDENTIAL HIDEAWAY Available for sale and rent (short term and long term) 2 Bed room condominium 3 Bed room condominium Penthouse

THAI FANS OF LIVERPOOL FC have sparked an outpouring of disgust over a tasteless banner they displayed during Sunday’s (July 28) 3-0 victory by their team over the Thai national side.

The 101GreatGoals.com blog reports, “Liverpool fans have been some of the quickest people online to denounce a disgusting anti-Manchester United banner spotted during the Reds’ 3-0 win over Thailand.”

The group of unidentified Thai supporters of Liverpool

were photographed holding the banner, which appears to slam retired manager Alex Ferguson, remarking, “Out Working Go To The Hell” The meaning of the next line of the banner, “20=Cheat”, though unclear, may refer to

Man U’s 20 wins in the English League Cup since 1908.

The final line seems to refer to the 1958 air crash in Munich in 1958, which claimed the lives of eight Man U players.

“Whilst many [fans] were quick to point out that the banner was written in unbelievably poor English,” the blog remarked, “more viewers of the banner were disgusted by the glorification of the Munich Air Disaster as an event [being used] to goad Manchester United fans,” 101GreatGoals remarked.

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

WORLD SPORT 31

Chiefs defend title against Brumbies RUGBY UNION Robert Smith

T

he Waikato Chiefs will defend their Super 15 rugby title against Australia’s ACT Brumbies tomorrow in New Zealand after tense semi-final victories last weekend.

The Chiefs surged home with a 17-point burst in the second-half to down seventime Super Rugby champions Canterbury Crusaders 20-19 in Hamilton, and will again host the final against the Brumbies tomorrow.

The Brumbies will play in their sixth Super Rugby final after snatching a dramatic 26-23 victory over threetime winners and favourites Northern Bulls with a try one minute from time in Pretoria.

While the Chiefs are bidding for back-to-back southern hemisphere provincial titles, the Brumbies, coached by former Springbok World Cupwinning mentor Jake White, will be chasing their third Super Rugby crown after earlier wins in 2001 and 2004.

It will be one versus three in this season’s decider with the Chiefs finishing first and the Brumbies third overall,

Tevita Kuridrani over for a try that had to be adjudicated by the South African television match official after the referee queried a possible forward pass.

Amid huge tension TMO Shaun Veldsman gave the ‘green light’ and inside centre Christian Lealiifano converted for a 16-point haul.

There was still time for the kick-off and a chance for the Bulls to equalise or even regain the lead, but they lost possession and the Brumbies kicked the ball into touch to end the game.

“I am extremely proud of the team as you cannot underestimate the challenge we faced taking on the Bulls in Pretoria,” said Brumbies Sonny Bill Williams of the Waikato Chiefs gestures to supporters after last year’s Super 15 rugby union final match No 8 and skipper Ben Mowen.

“We did well during the win against the Coastal Sharks at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton, New Zealand. The Chiefs were crowned the 2012 Super 15 champions last August 4 when they beat the Sharks 37-6 in a one-sided final. Photo: AFP/Marty Melville first half, but knew the Bulls would come back after the with the New Zealand team The Chiefs, who beat the The Crusaders continued selves with our set piece,” break. Fitness was a major facbeating the Australians 29-22 Crusaders 20-17 on the same to dominate in the opening Chiefs captain Craig Clarke tor as we were well prepared in their only encounter this ground in the semi-finals last plays of the second half to said, adding their scoring blitz to go the distance.” season in Hamilton on March year, were the underdogs keep the Chiefs scrambling came from a change of tactics.

It was the first time the 16. Overall the Brumbies lead going into Saturday’s match, but when All Black ace Dan “We spread the ball more Bulls had lost a Super Rugby 11-6 with one game drawn. given the Crusaders’ menacing Carter missed a second penalty than we have done in previous finals match at their Pretoria Should the Chiefs win next lead-up form. the Chiefs discovered their weeks and they couldn’t settle fortress. The Bulls were the With Kieran Read and second wind. weekend it will be the 12th into their strong defensive last South African team to Super Rugby championship George Whitelock heading a In a golden 10-minute spell system.” be Super Rugby champions victory by a New Zealand marauding Crusaders forward they piled on 17 points to lead There was high drama late in 2010. AFP team, while only the fourth pack they forced the Chiefs on 20-9 before they grimly held at Pretoria’s Loftus Versfeld by an Australian side should to the back foot and led 9-3 at out a late Crusaders charge. when Brumbies fly-half Matt See TV schedule below left the Brumbies prevail. half-time.

“We made it hard for our- Toomua sent outside-centre for Thailand broadcast time.

Live Sports TV Schedule

CHANNEL GUIDE

1XX- True Vision, 8XX - Astra; 8 - Setanta

*Times may be subject to change

CHANNEL

START

END

SPORT

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

Friday, August 2 816, 117

816

29

16:30

18:30

Rugby League

NRL

Panthers v. Roosters

18:30

20:30

Rugby League

NRL

Knights v. Broncos (D)

816, 117

811

D

L

F

A

Pts

1

Hawthorn

MP W 17

15

0

2

2007

142.44

60

1

South Sydney

18

2

Geelong

17

14

0

3

1883

136.95

56

2

Sydney Roosters

3

Sydney

17

13

1

3

1773

143.91

54

3

4

Essendon

17

13

0

4

1807

124.45

52

5

Fremantle

17

12

1

4

1454

122.80

50

6

Richmond

17

11

0

6

1587

113.28

44

Team

MP W

D

L

F

GD Pts

15

0

3

474

218

34

18

14

0

4

446

237

32

Manly

18

11

1

6

421

163

27

4

Melbourne

18

11

1

6

377

80

27

5

Canterbury-Bankstown

18

10

0

8

381

38

24

6

Cronulla

18

10

0

8

326

-13

24

08:55

Soccer

Guinness Champ SF1

Chelsea v. Inter Milan

7

Collingwood

17

11

0

6

1616

110.68

44

09:25

11:25

Soccer

Guinness Champ SF2

LA Galaxy v. Real Madrid

8

Port Adelaide

17

10

0

7

1564

108.91

40

7

Canberra

18

10

0

8

336

-40

24

9

0

8

1670

112.99

36

18

9

0

9

396

79

22

Old Trafford, Day 2

17

Newcastle

Cricket

Carlton

8

00:00

Ashes Test Match No. 3

9

17:00

10

Kangaroos

17

7

0

10

1798

122.81

28

9

Warriors

18

9

0

9

361

-63

22

11

West Coast

17

7

0

10

1665

102.65

28

10

Penrith

18

8

0

10

377

19

20

12

Adelaide

17

7

0

10

1519

100.86

28

11

Gold Coast

18

8

0

10

354

-51

20

13

Brisbane

17

7

0

10

1406

82.61

28

14

Gold Coast

17

6

0

11

1404

88.19

24

12

Brisbane

18

7

0

11

322

-36

18

15

Bulldogs

17

5

0

12

1379

79.34

20

13

North Queensland

18

6

0

12

312

-47

16

16

St. Kilda

17

3

0

14

1330

79.12

12

14

St George Illawarra

18

6

0

12

258

-115

16

17

Melbourne

17

2

0

15

1114

52.60

8

15

Wests Tigers

18

6

0

12

270

-199

16

18

GWS

17

0

0

17

1188

51.34

0

16

Parramatta

18

3

0

15

246

-270

10

14:30

16:30

Rugby Union

Super XV Final

Chiefs v. Brumbies

12:00

14:00

Rugby League

NRL

Warriors v. Sharks

16:30

18:30

Rugby League

NRL

Cowboys v. Rabbitohs

18:10

20:00

Soccer

Championship

Burnley v. Bolton

20:55

23:00

Soccer

Championship

QPR v. Sheffield Weds

810

18:40

20:40

Soccer

Friendly

Liverpool v. Olympiakos

29

17:00

00:00

Cricket

Ashes Test Match No. 3

Old Trafford, Day 3

Sunday, August 4 12:00

14:00

Rugby League

NRL

Titans v. Tigers

14:00

16:00

Rugby League

NRL

Raiders v. Storm (D)

813, 109

17:30

19:00

Motor Bikes

SBK Superbikes

Raceday, Silverstne

811

21:55

00:00

Soccer

Championship

Derby v. Blackburn

816

10:25

12:30

Soccer

Guinness Champ Final

Winners of SF’s above

29

17:00

00:00

Cricket

Ashes Test Match No. 3

Old Trafford, Day 4

816, 117

Team

NRL

06:55

Saturday, August 3 816, 117

AFL

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Sport

Phuket FC match preview

editor2@classactmedia.co.th

Can The Islanders beat TTM FC tomorrow? > 29

PACMAN FOR PRES BOXING

Alex Millson

P

hilippine boxing great Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao is harbouring thoughts of running for president in his beloved homeland when he finally hangs up his gloves, he revealed to AFP in an exclusive interview.

Giving his strongest hint yet that he will push to the top of the political tree when he finally retires from the ring, the “Pacman” – a hero and congressman in his home country – admitted he had considered the presidency of the 95 million-strong nation.

When pressed on whether he had thought about shooting for the top job, the softly-spoken 34-year-old replied “Yes”.

Drawing parallels between his pugilism and politics careers, the former world champion in eight weight divisions said: “When I started boxing, of course I was planning, you know and thinking about getting to become a champion.

So when I enter politics it’s the same thing.

“But, you know, it’s far away,” he said, adding: “It’s God’s will.”

Before that, however, Pacquiao whose record stands at 54 wins, five losses and two draws, must concentrate on his latest bout – a post breakfast-time tear-up with US fighter Brandon Rios, kicking off at the Venetian resort-hotel in Macau at 10 am on November 24.

The unconventional start time is for the benefit of the

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2013

lucrative US pay-per-view audience, who will be settling down to watch the fight mid-evening on Saturday, as top US promoter Bob Arum attempts to elbow his way into the China market.

And viewers will not be oblivious to the fact that it is probably make or break time for Pacquiao’s boxing career.

Despite his last fight ending in a disastrous knockout, when Juan Manuel Marquez caught him with a huge right hand that saw the Filipino crumple to the canvas – his second successive defeat – Pacquiao refuses to entertain the notion that he will lose a third straight bout, or retire.

He said he was “100 per cent” sure he would beat Rios (31-1-1), giving him one more chance to regain his

credibility – and potentially another shot at a world title.

“He’s okay, but I can say he’s a greasy fighter and he loves to fight inside, he loves to fight toe-to-toe,” he said in an interview last Saturday as he kicked off a promotional tour for the Rios battle.

“This is going to be a good fight – more action in the ring. Hopefully he won’t run away.”

Pacquiao insists he is as fit as ever, will focus on not leaving himself open to Marquez-style punishment, and has ignored calls from friends, family and media commentators, fearful for his health, to call it a day.

Once regarded as the world’s best pound-for-pound fighter, he dismisses the possibility of defeat at the hands

Philippine boxing icon Manny Pacquiao during a pre-fight press conference in Beijing on July 30. Pacquiao will fight Brendon Rios of the US in a welterweight bout in Macau on November 24.

Despite his last fight ending in a disastrous knockout, when Juan Manuel Marquez caught him with a huge right hand that saw the Filipino crumple to the canvas – his second successive defeat – Pacquiao refuses to entertain the notion that he will lose a third straight bout, or retire. Photo: AFP/Mark Ralston

of the much younger – and possibly hungrier – US opponent.

“There’s a little bit of pressure for this fight but I believe in myself that I can still fight and improve,” he said. “I still can knock somebody out in the ring.

“I never think negative.

I only think positive,” Pacquiao added, conceding that his nearest and dearest were desperate for him to bow out of the fight game.

“Especially my mother,” he admitted. “My mother doesn’t want me to fight any more, she doesn’t like it,” he told AFP. “She wants me to focus on serving people.”

His trainer too, the legendary Freddie Roach, has categorically stated that if he loses to Rios it will be the last

time he sets foot in the ring.

“If he loses, I will tell him to retire,” he was reported as telling ESPN. Acknowledging he is no longer a young fighter – but confident he will be in as good a shape as ever – he said: “Of course, my mind is still there but I have to adjust a little bit of something in my body because I’m 34 years old. It’s different than if you compare it to when I was 25 years old.”

And the one question that has for years dogged Pacquiao – whether a dream clash with undefeated five-division world champion Floyd Mayweather will ever happen?

“I’ve stopped thinking about him because I don’t think he will fight me. I’ve been waiting four years already,” he said. AFP

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