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DSI WANTS HELP TO TARGET ILLEGAL FOREIGN FIRMS > PAGE 4
BANGLA BUST: 11 ARRESTED 100 100 40 50
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Kathu Police arrested 10 foreigners for working illegally in four nightspots along Bangla Rd. The raids came after reports were received that the venues were staging “obscene shows” featuring foreigners. One woman was arrested and fined for dancing topless. Some of those caught in Monday night’s dragnet wait to be processed.
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Rice bowl rumpus Licensed Chinesespeaking tour guides protest over rapidly growing competition from illegal guides > 5
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11 arrested in Bangla dragnet Nattha Thepbamrung reporter2@tclassactmedia.co.th
Volunteers release the whale in deeper water, after it was treated with antibiotics. Photo: Kongkiat Kittiwattanawong
Young whale saved A YOUNG DWARF SPERM Whale, about two metres long and weighing between 100 and 150 kilogrammes, was found on Patong beach on Wednesday morning (May 1) at about 8am, attracting a crowd of curious tourists and locals. Called to the scene, Dr Kongkiat Kittiwattanawong from the Phuket Marine Bio� logical Centre (PMBC) told The Phuket News, “The whale was very weak. He had a small wound, nothing seri�
ous, but we gave him a shot of antibiotics that should last about two weeks.” The whale was carried off the beach into deeper water but continued to swim around nearby. “Our staff are keep� ing an eye on him. We’re a bit worried he may become stressed by the beach and water activities.” Yesterday morning (May 2) he reported that the whale had moved away from the coast and into deep water, safe from jet skis and power boats.
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
K
athu Police arrested 11 foreigners on Monday night (April 29) for working illegally in four������� ����������� night� spots along Bangla Rd, Patong. Around 10pm a raiding party comprising Kathu District Officer Weera Kerdsirimongkol, Kathu Employment Office staff and a variety of other officials, along with police officers, began checks on the four venues. The raids came after reports were received that the night venues were staging “obscene shows” featuring foreigners, who were also suspected of not holding work permits. “We actually rounded up about 35 people,” said Mr Weera, “but only 11 of them were working at the time. The
rest were sitting at the bars [of the various clubs] and claimed that they were there as cus� tomers. They produced their passports, so we had to release them.” The first to be arrested was Alana Jacotima��������������� , 32, from Rus� sia, who was caught dancing topless in the Glamour Club. She was found to hold a work permit as an actress/ dancer, but was fined B500 for taking her top off in public. The other 10 were all ar� rested on work permit charges in the remaining three clubs that were raided – Moulin Rouge, Paradise and Seduction. An Australian, Thomas Bradley, 27, had a valid work permit, but for a different place than where he was working. He was released but can expect to pay a fine of B5,000.
Five Russian women – Anna Kraynova, 25, Milana Velikoro� dnykh, 28, Orlova Liubov, 24, Ekaterina Stepanova, 25 and Anastasiia Naumova, 24 – were all found to hold expired work permits. Alexei Michael Andrew Chase-McCarthy, 21, Danny Wetherall, 20 and James Snow� don, 21, all from Britain, along with Andarawas Patabendige Hiran Neranga De Vaas, 32, from Sri Lanka, were all found to have no work permits at all. These nine were charged with working illegally. Mr Weera grumbled, “At all of these places we found only foreign staff. The owners were nowhere to be seen and there were no Thai staff. “When we asked the foreign staff about this, all of them said they had no idea who their boss
was. It may be they had all been instructed to say this.” He said that he will send information about the four nightspots to the Phuket Busi� ness Development Office to check whether the companies owning the bars are legitimate, and whether they have Thai nominee shareholders. The venue owners, if they can be found, face legal action for employing foreigners without valid work permits. Yaowapa Phibulpol, Chief of the Phuket Provincial Em� ployment Office said the nine with expired or non-existent work permits will go before the court and are likely to be fined and then deported. There is also a small pos� sibility they will be barred from returning to Thailand, though this would be unusual.
Police grab hotel safe thief – and his Benz
Man held for series of 8 bike burnings
POLICE APPEAR TO HAVE cracked the case of the hotel safe deposit box robber who stole the contents of room safes from at least six hotels in Patong and Kata/Karon. On Tuesday (April 30) they arrested Reutdhimet Singha-ampai, 34, after his car had been spotted on CCTV footage from hotels where rooms were robbed. They followed the car – a white Mercedes Benz that in the later robberies was covered with black vinyl in an apparent attempt to disguise it.
When he stopped at Jungc� eylon to go shopping with his 22-year-old girlfriend, they moved in and arrested him. Reutd himet ad mit ted stealing from rooms at Grace� land and Duangjit resorts in Patong, and the Kata Beach Resort, Mövenpick, Thavorn Beach Resort and Bauman Ville (twice) in Kata/Karon. Police have recovered 79 stolen items from the room where he was staying. A background check found that Reutd himet was arrested in 2011 for breaking into a car and stealing from it.
POLICE A R R ESTED A 37-year-old man on Monday night (April 29) for a series of motorbike arsons. Maj Gen Choti Chavalvi� wat, Commander of Phuket Provincial Police told The Phuket News on Tuesday “We asked him why he did it. He said he just enjoyed it.” Gen Choti added, “We still have to find the culprits in another four cases.” On Wednesday the accused was taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital for psychiatric as� sessment.
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FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
DSI investigates alleged execution by police officers DEPARTMENT OF SPECIAL Investigation (DSI) officers on April 25 visited Suan Luang Park on Chao Fa Rd in Phuket Town, the site of an alleged extrajudicial killing by police four years ago. The DSI investigation into the death of Ong-At Rodpradit, 32, comes after it received a complaint from the dead man’s father, Wichit, saying that he believed his son was executed by police. Pol Lt Col Yan napon Yangyeun, Deputy Director of the DSI went to the scene with a team from the Central Institute of Forensic Science (CIFS) to check the surroundings and assess possible bullet ranges and trajectories. Ong-At was arrested at a shop near the park on charges of stealing a Buddha amulet while armed.. Mr Wichit said he had received a call from a police officer telling him that his son had been arrested. But later the same day his daughter called him to say that Ong-At had been shot dead while resisting arrest.
When he, his wife and their daughter arrived at the scene of the shooting, he noticed that his son’s shirt and the SIM card from his phone were missing. Police said the shirt was being kept as evidence and that they had not found the SIM card. Mr Wichit said his son’s body was covered in bruises; it looked as though he had been beaten up. He had been shot in the chest. These and other points, Mr Wichit said, led him to the conclusion that his son did not resist arrest. He added that the police did not seem to want to help him. He asked for a copy of the autopsy report but had still not received it, four years later. Col Yannapon said after the visit to the park that the CIFS team will take all the evidence and information back to analysis in Bangkok and DSI officers will question anyone with links to the incident. He also appealed for witnesses to the shooting to come forward, promising them that the DSI has an effective witness protection programme.
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Former ‘black’ taxis in deal with Airport Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter4@classactmedia.co.th
he 250-member Mook Andaman Taxi group on Thursday (April 25) came to an agreement with Airports of Thailand, owner of the Phuket International Airport, that will allow 25 members to pick up passengers at the airport. Mook Andaman is the largest group of illegal “black plate” taxis on the island, though many have now managed to get legal green plates, thanks to the efforts of the Phuket Land Transportation Department (PLDT) to bring some order to the island’s taxi mafias. Mook Andaman had to agree to four points: 25 per cent of profits must be paid to the airport; no more than 25 Mook Andaman drivers may work from the airport, and a list of the 25 must be submitted in advance; all 25 must have vehicles with green license plates; and a list of all members of Mook Andaman must be given to the PLDT. It took some hard bargain-
T
Happy with the result: Two members of Mook Andaman celebrate the agreement. ing over two days – at first the drivers did not want to hand over any lists or choose who would or would not be allowed into the airport. On Thursday, however, they agreed to all four points and even submitted the required lists. Teerayut Prasertpon, Director of the PLDT, said after the meeting, “Now, with the list of Mook Andaman members, I have an accurate list of 2,882 black taxis on the island, of which about 1,000 have been
converted to green plates. “This helps make it possible to plan properly if Mook Andaman want to add more taxis to their airport list.” Ithipon Metthanee, Secretary of Mook Andaman, was delighted, too. He told The Phuket News, “We used to be black taxis – we were illegal. But the officials gave us a chance. “Before, when we tried to pick up passengers from the airport, we would get arrested. Now, thanks to official
help and our own efforts to go legitimate, we can work at the airport legally. “Now we can tell other taxi drivers that we are happy to be an example of how to do things the right way.” The agreement comes in stark contrast to the situation 13 years ago when tension between authorised limousine drivers and black taxis boiled over, culminating in a black taxi diver using a piece of wood to beat a limo driver to death in the car park.
Yacht duo hard to lock up IT TOOK A WHILE, BUT Chalong police finally managed to put two alleged boat robbers behind bars on Saturday afternoon (April 27), after the duo twice made attempts to escape. Pol Lt Kraisorn Boonprasop of Chalong Police told The Phuket News that around midnight on Friday (April 26), two men climbed aboard the empty catamaran Da Vinci, which was moored alongside Chalong Pier. Breaking into it, they set off the alarm. The owner contacted police who in turn contacted security staff, who spotted the thieves moving stolen items off Da
Vinci and onto their own boat. Seeing the security men approaching the two fled and a pursuit across the water ensued. Before they could get back to their base on Cape Panwa, the two were captured. Along with Niwat Daungmanee, 21, and Teerapon Mala son, 20, police seized two underwater cameras, 20 foreign coins, a knife, a GPRS emergency beacon and the boat they allegedly used to carry out the robbery. They were taken to Chalong Police Station and charged. They denied the charges. On Saturday afternoon they
were put in the caged back of a police pick-up truck to be taken to Phuket Court for a remand hearing. Close to the court, they kicked open the door of the cage, dropped from the pick-up and then ran into Klong Bang Yai to try to make their escape. Following another pursuit the two were rearrested, but not without a nasty fight in which Pol Sen Sgt Maj Boonpop Kingmala was slashed in the face with a broken bottle. He was taken to hospital where he received 10 stitches, and the two suspects were at last sent locked up in prison.
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he Deputy Director of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has called on the people of Phuket to submit pictures and videos of illegal foreign businesses in action. At a meeting with local authorities and local businesses, including taxi drivers, restaurant owners and tour guides in Cherng Talay on Thursday (April 25) the Deputy Director, Pol Lt Col Yannapon Yangyeun, said, “Local people are the best option for keeping an eye out for illegal businesses. “If you see foreigners working illegally, take pictures and send them to us. We will deal with it.” Panompon Thammachatniyom, President of Phuket Tour Guide Association, said in the meeting that he wants more serious action from all departments involved to stop foreigners working illegally as tour guides. “There have been many attempts but all have failed, yet there are many foreigners as guides in plain daylight all over the island." Chaifu Saelee, a Chinese-
speaking Thai tour guide complained, “I speak Chinese as my mother tongue but I cannot compete with the illegal Chinese guides imported from China, who say bad things about Thailand and damage Thailand’s image.” He said that the illegal Chinese tour guides “have no standard of service” and do not know much about Thailand but “always talk about Phuket and Thailand in a bad way”. Chinese-speaking tour guides visited Provincial Hall on Monday to present a letter of protest to the Governor. M r Pa n o m p o n c o m plained, “The illegal foreign businesses always say they bring large amounts of money to Thailand but after I checked, I found that their monthly accounts show a loss. Thailand might get around 10 per cent of that ‘large amount of money’; the rest goes back to their home country. “It’s not fair because Thai people pay the taxes that are used to build the infrastructure that the foreign companies use.” Labour Development Office Chief, Nimit Kangkajit, revealed in the meeting that there are 3,366 businesses
in Phuket with legal foreign shareholdings of less than 50 per cent – 1,748 in Muang District, 544 in Thalang and 1,074 in Kathu. “We have adapted the regulations to the situation. Now companies with foreign shareholders must send the report of their income to us,” said Mr Nimit. A multiplicity of complaints were aired in the meeting. Taxi representatives complained once again that illegal Russian taxi services are still available in the area. Some of them use normal saloon cars so that no one can figure out the if the people in the car are tourists with a driver or just a group of friends. The restaurant representatives said that staff of a Russian restaurant at Bang Tao beach frequently tell Russian customers to avoid local restaurants because they are unhygienic and provide poor service. “We don’t mind foreign businesses provided they are legal, but let’s compete fairly,” one of the restaurant representatives said. After the meeting, Col Yannapon promised that the DSI would do its best to
investigate and suppress the foreign wrongdoers. “We take action seriously in every case. It is not fair for Thailand to have this kind of business,” he said. And he warned, “Nominee shareholders who help foreigners set up illegal businesses in return for a little money should realise that they will be in trouble when the foreigners run away from Thailand. It’s not worth it. “Phuket, Samui, Pattaya and Chiang Mai all have the same kind of problems, which seem to be increasing.” He said that the DSI team have checked and will continue to check many aspects of suspected businesses including taxes paid, their business licenses or work permits. However, cooperation from local people is the most important thing. Anyone having photographs or videos can send them to Pol Lt Col Somboon Sarasit, email somboon911@ hotmail.com, tel 085 660 0845. The DSI is also considering launching an official Facebook page to which pictures and videos of suspected illegal foreign businesses or workers in action can be uploaded.
Dengue rise prompts PR drive ALONG WITH GOVERNOR Maitree Intusut, a group of around 50 officials from the Phuket Provincial Public Health Organisation (PPPHO) and Phuket Town Municipality distributed leaflets on Thalang Road last Friday (April 26) as part of a public awareness campaign about dengue fever. The officials spent time talking to shopowners and other members of the public about the disease, including what to do when you think you have it, and how to stop the disease from spreading. The number of people who have died from dengue fever in Phuket this year currently stands at one – a young Burmese girl – but the number of confirmed cases on the island so far is more than double that
A willing volunteer helps Gov Maitree Intusut demonstrate the use of mosquito repellent. of last year. The PPPHO said there had been 122 confirmed cases of the disease reported this year between January 1 and April 18. In the same period last year,
there were 50 reported cases. The increase has prompted the PPPHO to increase public awareness about the disease. Last week’s Thalang Road walk was part of the “3-3-3 Measure”
dengue fever health campaign, launched last Wednesday (April 24). Over the campaign’s three month duration, there will be mosquito repellent available free of charge from all hospitals, clinics and provincial health offices across Phuket. PPPHO Provincial Chief Medical Officer Dr Buncha Kakhong suggested residents keep a tidy house, with stagnant water areas kept to a minimum, or at least covered up to stop mosquitoes breeding. “If you have a cold or fever and suspect it might be dengue fever, you should visit the hospital or health clinic. People should also come to pick up the free repellent and use it to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes,” said Dr Buncha.
Sea Gypsies hope that a bone found buried in their village will help establish their right to the land.
Sea Gypsies ‘should file case in the Admin Court’ SEA GYPSIES IN RAWAI – facing possible eviction from their village because a local businessman, Piyawat Saengniemkul, has ownership papers for the land – have been urged to take their case to the Administrative Court as a way to buy time. The villagers argue that they or their ancestors lived on the land before the land papers were issued, but Thanom Songserm of the Committee on Human Rights and Liberties and Consumer Protection said he believed that, on current evidence, they will probably lose any case in civil court. On a visit to Governor Maitree Intusut on Thursday (April 25), Mr Thanom said he believed they would lose because the Mr Piyawat has documents to support his claim while the villagers do not. He said they should take any evidence they have of past occupation of the land and go to the Administrative Court for a ruling as to whether the original documents were issued correctly or not by the Land Office. ( T he Ad m i n ist r at ive Court’s function is to judge on disputes between private citizens and government organisations.) Even if the Administrative Court eventually ruled against them, he said, the case in that court would protect them from any decision in another court until the Administrative Court makes its own judgement. Sea Gypsy leaders were advised that they should be ready to go to the Administrative Court by June.
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
PHUKET NEWS
RICE BOWL RUMPUS
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Fantastic plastic Chinese-speaking guides in protest against illegals in Phuket Nattha Thepbamrung reporter2@classactmedia.co.th
M
ore than a hundred tour guides protested for about three hours at Phuket Provincial Hall on Monday (April 29), furious at the rapidly increasing numbers of illegal Chinese tour guides on the island. The Chinese-speaking tour guides, led by Chaifu Saelee and adviser Aparat Chartchutikumjorn, handed a written complaint to Vice Governor Somkiet Sangkhaosuthirak, alleging that there are now between 200 and 300 illegal foreign Chinese-speaking tour guides working across the island. They also claimed that the tour companies employing these guides have illegal Thai nominee shareholders. “The illegal guides from China keep increasing every day. They came here on tourist visas and then grab our jobs,” said Mr Chaifu. “Not only are they stealing our jobs but they are also destroying Thailand’s image. They say bad things about HM the King, and they tell the Chinese tourists bad things
Not happy: Chaifu Saelee (left) with adviser Aparat Chartchutikumjorn at Provincial Hall. about Thai history and about Thai women,” he added. He explained that while illegal Chinese guides continue to pour into Phuket, there are Thai Chinese-speaking guides who want to work legally but cannot because they do not have the educational qualifications to allow them to apply for licences. This is because many of them come from minority groups in northern Thailand, and failed to graduate from
grade 9 in school, which is the minimum for studying for a licence. In addition, the number of licences issued each year is very limited. “There are about 2,500 Thai Chinese-speaking tour guides in Phuket. Around 500 of these people still need licences but only 80 licences are issued each year. In a meeting between the authorities and 10 representatives of the protesters, Chakrit Janjit, Registrar of the Bureau
Airport pier explained THE PHUKET MARINE Office has revealed details of its plans to build an L-shaped pier at Phuket International Airport to provide passenger transport by sea to Patong. At Thursday’s (April 25) public hearing, Phuripat Theerakulpisut, Director of the Marine Office explained that the pier and onshore facilities, which will be built right at the southern end of the airport, will cost an estimated B180 million. If the budget is forthcoming, construction could be completed in two years. “We have studied the project and its possible effects for a long time and I’m quite positive that it will receive good feedback,” he said. “Once we have finished building the pier, we will hand it over to Mai Khao OrBorTor to manage it. The boats will come from private companies, which will be able to bid for the right to provide services.” There was no outright opposition to the project at the meeting, attended mostly by people from the Mai Khao area. Rather, there was caution mixed with doubt. Manoch Saithong, Head Man of Mai Khao Moo 4, wondered whether the project would actually get off the ground. “I
Director of the Marine Office Phuripat Theerakulpisut: ‘The idea is not to steal passengers from the taxis or tuk-tuks.’ worry that this project will end up like the International Convention & Exhibition Centre, which failed,” he remarked. “I’m not sure that it will happen the way the Director of the Marine Office says it will.” One legitimate worry over the project was pointed out by Noppathorn Hongsa, Assistant Head Man of Moo 5 in Tha Chat Chai, who said he was
concerned about the effect it would have on the income of taxi and tuk-tuk drivers. Mr Phuripat said he was sure it would have no effect. “The idea is not to ‘steal’ passengers from the taxis or tuktuks,” he said. “The idea is to help lighten the load on the roads and at the same time allow tourists to enjoy the sea view.”
of Tourism Business and Guide Registration said one of the reasons why illegal Chinese tour guides can still work is the cooperation of licensed Thai “sitting” guides. “Sitting” guides have guide licences but do nothing all day but sit in the tour buses while illegal Chinese do the guide work. The sitting guides’ sole purpose is to spring into action when the bus is stopped by police or other officials. For this they receive B1,000 a day.
“If some of you refused to do this job [as sitting guides], it would be easier for the police [to catch illegal guides],” he said. At the end of the meeting, V/Gov Somkiet said that he would forward the complaint to Gov Maitree Intusut and also ask the representatives for the list of names of the alleged Chinese-nominee tourism businesses, as well as the names of the illegal tour guides they say they have collected. He also promised to set up a working team from the sections involved to follow up on the issue and enforce the laws on illegal tour guides and business. But, he warned, if the authorities crack down on illegal tour guides, any Thais found working as guides without licences will also be arrested. The meeting ended around midday, though some of the protestors, who wanted immediate action, stayed on for a while before leaving. Eventually they agreed to disperse so long as action is taken within two weeks. Failing this, they said, they would return for more protests.
A SINGLES-ORIENTED bar in Australia is running a contest for a free trip to Phuket, with all the plastic surgery you can handle. The contest is the brainstorm of the owners of Tryst Bar & Nightclub of Mackay, in Queensland, the “sugar capital” of Australia. While the contest rules state the winner will win “comestic surgery”, the promotion is blatantly sexy, aimed primarily at women who might want to “improve” their breasts, butts or legs. The bar has enrolled local cosmetic surgery travel agent ID Rejuvenation Travel to handle the details – a free trip to Phuket, combined with plastic surgery. ID Rejuvenation agent Amy Price told the local Daily Mercury newspaper that most entrants seem interested in breast augmentation. The contest is essentially a raffle. Buy a round of drinks at the club for A$50 or more (about B1,500) and get a chance to win the trip. First prize covers flights, five nights at a hotel, and the chosen surgery. Bangkok Post
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FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Phuket ‘still needs convention centre’ Naraporn Tuarob reporter1@classactmedia.co.th
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he island is ready to become a major centre for meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (Mice) but still needs a Convention Centre. This conclusion was one of those voiced at a seminar on Friday (April 26) at the Metropole hotel organised by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), and titled Phuket: Towards Sustainable Mice City. Gov Maitree Intusut said in the meeting, “Phuket Province views the creation and addition of value for tourism as crucial to achieving sustainable growth for Phuket and neighbouring provinces. “We have formulated a four-year development plan for the island to make it the centre and the dream destination of visitors worldwide. Under the ‘Charming Andaman’ formula, Phuket has developed the ‘4Ms’ strategy.” The explained that the four Ms are Mice, Marine, Manpower development and Medical Hub. “With the 4Ms strategy, Phuket will be further developed based on its strength as a favourite tourist destination
MP Anchalee Vanich-Thepabutra (centre) flanked by Parichat Sawaetsaeranee and Dr Jutha Tharachai of TCEB. and a business centre of the south. “So far, we have introduced several development projects, such as marina and travel boat service promotion, cultural tourism development with the focus on museums and local architecture, and Mice business. “We aim to leverage Phuket’s positioning as a business and trading hub, enabling us to enhance economic and
social development in the provinces on the Andaman Sea coast.” However, Gov Maitree also emphasised the importance of maintaining “Thainess”, which is a unique point of Thailand. Supawan Teerarat, the TCEB’s Exhibition Director, said, “Phuket is one of the four active Mice cities in Thailand [along with Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Pattaya]. Phuket and the TCEB signed a
memorandum of understanding in 2009 to develop the province into a Mice City. “Phuket possesses potential strengths to become a successful Mice City. As a charming island and a favourite tourist destination in the Andaman Sea, Phuket has a very good transport infrastructure, hotels and accommodation, meeting and conference venues as well as activities that best address the specific needs of Mice
travellers”. Pratueng Sornkham, Director of Phuket International Airport said that the airport expansion will certainly be finished by the time the Asean Economic Community (AEC) comes into existence. Democrat Party MP Anchalee Vanich Thepabutra said, “Efforts to push Phuket to become a Mice destination is nothing new; it has been doing for a long time.
We have been asking for a Convention Centre in Phuket for a long time but right now it has been withheld by the current government.” She pointed out that this was something of a political volte-face. “Actually, in PM Thaksin’s time, he wanted to build a Convention Centre on reclaimed land off Saphan Hin but it was rejected by the people who were afraid that it would become a casino and because the roads of Phuket Town would be a bottleneck. “Mice travellers generate more than double the income that normal travellers bring in,” Mrs Anchalee said. “For example, if you receive nine million ordinary tourists a year, or three million Mice visitors, the overall income will be the same. “In addition, this would decrease congestion in the province. It might also allow us to manage visitors better and raise the overall quality of tourists. “What we need for Phuket to become [major] Mice destination is to complete the airport expansion, build a convention centre, and build a light rail system.”
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‘Farmer’ evicted from forestry land Naraporn Tuarob reporter1@classactmedia.co.th
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ichit Municipality and Royal Forestry (RFD) moved in on April 25 to evict an ex-soldier from RFD land in the Muang Tong area of Wichit. After five years of argu-
ing over the land, local man Somnuek Thongmak was arrested by Phuket Town Police for encroachment after he ignored a deadline in a court writ ordering him to pull down his “house” and two sheds, and move off the land within eight days. “Mr Somnuek claimed that he was developing this piece
of land for organic farming and as a community centre for agricultural knowledge,” said Pongsapak Eiabsakul, Chief of Development of the Mangrove Forest Resources Station 23. “But I don’t think that’s true. “We told him that the land belongs to the RFD and it is illegal for him to stay there.
A shop dummy looks on as members of the eviction team discuss what happens next.
“We have given him five years to move out, and we have followed all the legal steps, but he still refused to leave. “Over the past five years, officers went many times to the site but he always refused to move, so we obtained a court writ ordering him to leave, and stuck it to his house. But still he stayed. “He told me that he had proper document saying he is allowed to stay. “Well, he can fight us in court – that’s his right – but first he needs to follow what the law says.” Half a dozen staff from the Disaster Prevention & Mitigation Department carted Mr Somnuek’s furniture and personal belongings out of his “house”, dumped them in a big pile and then started pulling down the structures. Banana plants, papaya trees and other plants were left untouched, but a bull found on the land was taken away to be cared for by the Provincial Livestock Department.
Above, Pongsapak Eiabsakul: ‘We gave him five years to move out.’ Below, Somnuek’s bull was taken into care.
• High academic standards - International Baccalaureate World School • A world-leader in evidence-based social and emotional learning • Top tier, internationally qualified teachers and educational leaders • Exceptional teaching and sports facilities • International student body representing 28 nationalities, with no one dominant nationality • Natural and safe environment: the school is contiguous to the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park "Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats Please contact us on T:+66 (0)76 336 076 to schedule a visit. 115/15 Moo 7 Thepkasattri Rd., Thepkasattri, Thalang, Phuket 83110, Thailand www.phuketinternationalacademy.com
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OPINION
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Opinion
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
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SIMON OSTHEIMER Managing Editor 088 760 8285 editor@classactmedia.co.th From Hong Kong; a decade’s experience as editor of magazines and newspapers in Shanghai (City Weekend, that’s Shanghai), Beijing (tbjhome, Urbane), Hong Kong (Time Out Hong Kong), Kuala Lumpur (Vision KL), Bangkok (Bangkok 101) and Phuket. Journalist for Esquire, Fah Thai, Vacations & Travel, Travel & Leisure, CNNGo, Surface and Dwell.
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TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com
Foreigners. Who needs them? 1 2 3
T
he dirty ‘F’ word – foreigner. Not native to this land. Someone of foreign nationality. Different. Alien. Not us. Foreigners. Bloody foreigners. Being an expatriate is an interesting experience, as it affords many people the first chance to experience what it’s like to be a member of a group on the fringes of mainstream society – to be a minority. How the recent arrival perceives how they are treated, and the spades of ire and indignation they may feel, probably says as much about how they viewed and treated foreigners in their homeland as how they are actually treated in their new adopted home. Phuket is an island almost solely dependant on income generated from foreigners through the conduit of tourism and residents. As such, it is essential to treat them, sorry I mean ‘us’, well. Thai law stipulates that, by
and large, looking after tourists should be done, apart from in a few instances, by Thai people. But what if Thai people are unable to do the job? This may be because they are unable to speak the language, are not trained to a sufficient level to provide an acceptable level of service, or are simply unable to relate. Foreign workers have been in the news again this week. On Monday night, a group of female Russian entertainers were arrested on Patong’s notorious walking street, Bangla Road. They were whisked away, while the relevant papers, permits and documents were checked over. However, if not those particular group of foreigners, then their foreign brothers and sisters will certainly be back working in the clubs before the weekend. They are needed on Bangla Road, as there are a certain section of foreigners who de-
sire to see their performances. It’s a simple case of foreign supply and demand. Earlier on Monday, in a scene that was reminiscent of the anti-Russian protests in Bang Tao just a few months ago, a group of Chinesespeaking Thais gathered to complain about the Chinese national tour guides they said were ‘stealing’ their jobs. As foreigners they shouldn’t be working, they said. One can’t help but wonder if the welcoming reception the grandparents of these Phuket-born men and women of Chinese descent received was any warmer. I would argue that at least these foreigners are working. They are not a drain on the welfare system. They are working because there are opportunities to do so, opportunities provided from a general capacity for foreign nationals to have greater social mobility. This is the world as it stands in 2013.
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Phuket airport boat pier details revealed Phuket-Bangkok bus in crash – two dead ‘Help us target illegal foreign firms in Phuket’ – DSI D e ngu e in c r e a s e prompts Phuket PR campaign Former ‘black’ taxis in deal with Phuket Airport DSI probes alleged police execution Australian bar offers trip to Phuket – with free plastic surgery Phuket airport strives to cope with demand Chinese - speaking guides in mass protest Runaway duo finally locked up after Phuket yacht robbery
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LIFE ON THE OPEN WAVES There’s so much to take in in this photograph. Concentration is probably the biggest emotion, but this longtail boat driver’s face shows the weather worn acquired attributes of the sun, wind and salt. The massive engine behind him tells the reader something about the size of the boat and its many uses, and his stare and relaxed arms show the confidence of someone who has been doing this work for some time. Gerry Cummings
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OPINION
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
9
Tales of Thalang traffic woe Graham Doven editor@classactmedia.co.th
T
he locals in Thalang were excited. Tesco was going to build a new store next to the school. There were going to be lots of restaurants, a department store and theatres. The Thalang hospital was not so excited. An entrance built on the side road, which happens to be the main road into the hospital, was going to cause havoc and severely curtail the easy movement of traffic in and out of the area. Local traffic was already increasing heavily with a Bangkok developer building a large project in the same area. The shopping centre management decided to close off this side entrance and make everybody use the exit and entrance on the main road. This means that all traffic leaving Tesco to travel north must use a U-turn. This U-turn is a nightmare, like many in Phuket. I’ve already witnessed the death of a Swiss tourist here. It’s about time the authorities insist on new shopping complexes contributing to building access overpasses
The empty motorbike parking inside Tesco and blocked off entrance, the road to the hospital. Photos: Graham Doven over main roads such as many have done in Bangkok. The whole area is becoming a traffic disaster. When I moved to Thalang I thought I would be out of the mish mash, but not to be. The Thalang intersection has long been a problem as all traffic from the airport to the northern beaches and the Laguna area has to turn right here. There were plans for a bypass road here about 15 years ago when the main
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Caution needed [Re. Two foreigners dead in Phuket big bike smashes] Maybe I am a little slow but I do not see anything printed in this story about this poor young guy being drunk, inexperienced or stupid. It does say police are blaming the crash on speed. Personally I would wait until there was something more official to base my opinions on before I started mouthing off offending all the family and friends of this man. My condolences to all the family and friends. Marki Don’t you think it’s about time instead of everyone blaming my son, and God knows how many other mother’s sons who die in the same way. How about blaming the fact that anyone can hire a 1000cc bike in Thailand without a full license as long as you show your passport? Apprently the police witnessed my son racing up and down the road many times before the accident, so why didn’t they stop him?
Why does everyone get away with not wearing the right clothing and helmet over there? Kim Ridgway Dear Mrs Ridgeway, let me first say how sorry I am for the loss of your son. My sincere condolences to you, his family and friends. I lost my own 27 year old son in a stupid driving accident four months ago and I think I know how you are feeling. My contribution here is solely for the purpose of making it easier for you to handle this tragedy. One of the positive sides of Thailand, which collides with the Western world’s way of thinking is that everyone has to think for themselves here. There’s no or little authority to stop you from doing wrong or dangerous things, and I believe when tourists arrive from their own country and realise that no one is stopping them from doing reckless things, they simply do what they shouldn’t. Like renting a big bike when they have no or little experience with a powerful
thoroughfare, Thepkassatri Rd, was still single lane each way. Now the traffic going the other way is a nightmare in the evenings, with cars backed up for hundreds of metres and taxis needing to take the old back road to get people to the airport. At night after 10pm the traffic light from Laguna to Thalang is set at 15 seconds. This is also going to cause a major accident one day, as it is not enough for even three
cars to get away. As a result, drivers constantly run the red light to avoid the long wait till the next change. It’s only a question of time. This light should be a minimum of 20 seconds to safely allow three cars to pass. In spite of these measures, the hospital road still has a major hazard. Most motorcycles have chosen to avoid the main entrance, and park in the centre of the hospital road.
HAVE YOUR SAY machine. They get intoxicated by the “freedom” that we enjoy here. I’m not saying that this is what happened with your son, but I speak from my own experience when I first arrived in 2006 this is how I felt. It’s basically a different way of thinking here in Thailand, you have to take care of yourself. No one is looking out for you. Again, my deepest sympathy and heartfelt sorrow for you and your family. Mik Wadstrom
Right to work [Re. Phuket’s Chinesespeaking guides in mass protest] It’s not the illegal tour guides that are in the wrong. It’s the law preventing them from working here that needs addressing. I have a wife and family to support, but am also unable to work, because I might be taking a job from a local Thai. Just how this country is going to cope with the influx of foreign workers from 2015, is a complete mystery to me. agogohome
Rayong rage [Re. Belgian paedophile arrested by Rayong police] This sick idiot needs to be used for feed at the crocodile park. Kinnock
I wonder if there will be DNA testing done or will everything be based on accusations and confessions? I’m not saying or suggesting that he’s innocent, but I’d like to know exactly how they’ll come to a solid (science-based) case. In the linked story, there is the money supposedly given to the children. I guess that the suspect’s DNA would be on that money. More questions: Why did the parents of the other kids not come forward sooner? Are they just jumping on the ‘get the foreigner’ bandwagon, or is there solid evidence that their children were molested too? How did they ask their children if the foreigner molested them? Leading questions? Again, I’m not saying that this guy is innocent... just
Just inside this boundary a big motorcycle parking area remains empty. It’s also only a matter of time before we have a major incident here. Trucks make their way carefully out with drivers leaning out the windows to negotiate the motorcycles. Ambulances with sirens on hurtle the other way at walking speed. Motorcyclists sit on their bikes brushing their hair, putting on lipstick, sending texts or playing with their phones,
oblivious of the rubbish truck missing toes by centimetres. If one of these bikes gets clipped it is likely that the domino effect will send 30 or 40 bikes over. Let me say that if I am the cause of such a mishap, I will not be footing the bill – it will be going straight to Mr Tesco. It ’s a si m ple m at t e r for Tesco to open the side entrance to motorcycles only, they will cause little disruption to traffic in this area and will be off the road. There are endless subjects to grumble about in Phuket, especially with the massive increase in traffic over the past year. Perhaps in hindsight, the crises that we have experienced, both man-made and natural, the Asian financial crisis, the coup and unrest in 1992, the Asian tsunami, SARS and others seemed disastrous at the time, but are we better off now in days of rapidly increasing tourist numbers when quantity appears to be more important than quality? To share your opinion, email editor@classactmedia.co.th
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questioning some things that stick out to me. Guest
Tuk-tuk time [Re. Phuket Opinion: Time to take on the tuk-tuks] Brilliant. Well said, totally time to act – this debate is way past its use-by-date! Kerrie Hall
take and try to fix it and re build it – just clean it up and build a new one. If you need a hand let me know – happy to give you guys some advice on what works and what does not. Steve
Close the gates [Re. Phuket ‘still needs convention centre’]
Well said indeed, but lets not forget the influential individuals who are actually behind the tuk-tuk’s. They’re the real reason nothing changes. agogohome
Yep, we need that about as much as we needed the Phuket Gateway visitor’s center. Dave Williams
Airport issues
[Re. Dengue increase prompts Phuket PR campaign] Dengue Fever is something we must treat very carefully Phuket Provincial H.
[Re. Phuket airport strives to cope with demand] Phuket airport is not the most beautiful, but it is versatile. We’ve just been there and it is not hard to get out and get a cab. Building a bigger place is not going to help get people in and out faster, but the decor and internal paint does need to be fixed asap. Please do not make a mis-
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Dealing with dengue danger
See you in court [Re. Govt discusses setting up Tourist Court] Now that is something that makes sense. Let’s wait for more details. Michael Pohl
10 THAILAND NEWS
IN BRIEF Ship caught smuggling logs worth B10 million A Navy ship intercepted a Cambodian fishing boat in Rayong bay and seized nearly 300 cut Siamese rosewood logs worth B10 million on April 29. The ship’s pilot said he was hired to deliver the logs to a location in Vietnam, and did not know anything else. Pattaya Daily News
Young female burglar busted in Pattaya apartment
A 19-year-old was caught burglarising a South Pattaya apartment by the 35-year-old renter after she returned home from work on April 29. The victim called on neighbours to help detain the suspect. The thief told police she stole money and property to look after her girlfriend. PDN
Jealous girlfriend dumped in bin A 38-year-old Cambodian man in Rayong was arrested for killing his girlfriend with a chain during a violent argument, after she discovered he was having an affair on April 26. PDN
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Belgian paedophile arrested in Rayong 39-year-old Belgian man was arrested in Rayong on April 26 after the father of an 11-yearold boy reported that his son and a friend were molested in a public park. The suspect was found to have molested other victims on a previous visit. The boy’s father said that
A
the molestation occurred on April 25 at 9am, when his son and a friend went to walk in the park in Khodthimtharam temple community. They encountered the man named as Mah Nle Belly, sitting in the public park who molested the boys. Afterwards, he gave the boys a total of
B1,700 for them to buy candies and snacks and forbade them to tell anyone. The father of the victim showed police the money that the Belgian gave to the two boys for evidence to be used in prosecuting him. When other children in the area knew about this matter,
they told their parents that the same foreigner last year had also done ‘obscenities’ to them. Many parents have subsequently come forward to notify the police. Police discovered that the suspect had previously travelled to Thailand twice before. On his second trip, the
suspect confessed to molesting the two boys on April 25, and to giving them money for compensation. He also admitted to molesting other victims last year. Police have charged the suspect of raping children and committing obscenities in public. Pattaya Daily News
Iranian pair deny Bangkok bomb plot Govt discusses setting AN IRANIAN MAN whose legs were blown off up new ‘Tourist Court’ during an alleged botched bomb plot last year against Israeli diplomats in Bangkok said on April 26 he found the explosives and was trying to dispose of them safely when they detonated. Saeid Moradi, 29, told a Bangkok court that he was about to leave Thailand when he found four bombs hidden inside radios in a cupboard at a rented house in the city. Two of the devices exploded as he ran into the street to throw them into a nearby canal, the second tearing off his legs, he said. Moradi and Mohammad Khazaei, 42, are among five Iranians suspected of involvement in the February 2012 blasts that followed attacks in India and Georgia and saw Israel accuse Tehran of
Khazaei is led away in February 2012. Photo: AFP waging a terror campaign. Moradi said he accidentally triggered one of the bombs when he opened a cupboard in the apartment. “I was stunned and threw it into the corner, believing it was a smoke bomb,” the wheelchair-bound suspect said via a translator, adding he grabbed two other bombs and ran outside to throw them
into a nearby canal. He did not refer further to the fourth device. Prosecutors accuse Moradi of hurling one bomb at a taxi and a second at two police officers as they approached him on the street, but it instead detonated near the suspect. The court is expected to give a ruling on June 20. AFP
THE TOURISM MINIStry is working on a plan to set up a specific Tourist Court aimed at offering better protection and swifter justice for foreign visitors to the country. Tourism Minister Somsak Phurisrisak said on Monday (April 29) that the idea of the Tourist Court was conceived in recognition of increasing instances of foreigners reporting they were robbed or otherwise harmed while traveling in Thailand. Mr Somsak said the concept is now under discussion with Wirat Chinwinijkul, Secretary-General of the Courts of Justice. He added that establishment of the court will begin
in the form of a tourist department being set up as part of the Courts of Justice. The Tourism Minister added that the discussion with Mr Wirat also included the possibility of a night court, in order to help speed up legal proceedings in cases involving visitors to Thailand. Mr Somsak will also meet with National Police Chief Pol Gen Adul Saengsingkaew today (May 1). He will ask the police to handle all cases related to tourists more swiftly and with more determination so that subsequent court proceedings can be handled without undue delay. NNT
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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
‘Ethical’ Spanish garment boss sought by Bangladeshi police
H
is ambition was to build an “ethical factory” in Bangladesh’s notorious garment industry, but Spanish entrepreneur David Mayor is now a wanted man after his company turned to dust in the Dhaka factory disaster. Mayor is the fugitive managing director of the PhantomTac apparel factory, a joint Spanish-Bangladeshi venture housed in the eight-storey Rana Plaza which collapsed last Wednesday, killing at least 381 people. Police told AFP Sunday they had filed preliminary charges of “causing death due to negligence” against him. The remaining four owners of factories inside the illegally built block have been arrested. The case was filed after survivors told police how managers had forced them to return to work on Wednesday even though the building developed visible cracks a day before, triggering an evacuation. Mayor, who spoke to AFP in March 2009 about his company, was working to land a lucrative contract with Spanish label Mango which had
Bangladeshi Army personnel use a crane to remove rubble from an eight-storey building that collapsed in Dhaka on April 28. Photo: AFP/Munir uz Zaman ordered samples of various products between January and March this year, according to documents seen by AFP. Other past clients whose products were cut and sewn in his airy factory with white walls and large windows included Spanish brand Cristian Lay, German sportswear label Medico and Denmark’s Mascot Workwear. In 2007, the shaggy-haired Mayor gave up his career as a fashion buyer in Spain because he was fed up with not being able to control workers’ conditions and his conscience
was bothered by reports of “sweatshop” labour. “Since the beginning I was a bit concerned about the social issues and it was a personal thing,” he said in 2009 at his factory, which was funding a separate training centre where women learned how to sew, as well as English and mathematics. He is now “accused number four” in the police investigation report into the disaster, and his business will be forever associated with the worst disaster in the local industry’s history that has further tarred
BOLLYWOOD’S 100TH BIRTHDAY One hundred years after the screening of a blackand-white silent film, India’s brash, song-and-dance-laden Bollywood film industry celebrated its centenary this week. Bollywood plotlines today can involve stars breaking into song, often in picturesque far-flung locations, apropos of nothing – a style that may bemuse a Western audience, but one that helps to set Indian cinema apart. In this photo, actress Maryam Zakaria performs in Mumbai in March. Photo: AFP/STR
Bangladesh’s reputation. But his background casts a new light on the story, suggesting that at least some of the factories in Rana Plaza appear not to be the typical “sweatshops” decried by campaigners. While Mayor appeared to have tried to improve working conditions for his hundreds of employees, Rana Plaza was an accident waiting to happen. Like many other factories around the capital, it appeared to have violated the building code because of illegal construction, leading to the cracks
and ultimately the implosion of the structure on Wednesday morning, police say. Millions of mostly female garment workers work in Bangladesh’s textile sector for the lowest wages in the world, earning as little as US$37 a month while facing often dangerous working conditions and abusive employers. In November, 111 people died in a fire at a factory where clothes were being made for Western brands including Walmart and C&A. Investigators found inadequate fire equipment and locked emergency exits. Mayor did not ret ur n emails or calls from AFP about last week’s disaster. “We are a factory. Prices are tight. Every single cent is important. We are not an NGO, but in addition we have this social concern,” he said in the 2009 interview. Mayor’s business partner Aminul Islam, who is the chairman of the company, was arrested Saturday. The Spanish entrepreneur’s whereabouts remain unknown. AFP
ASIA NEWS 11
IN BRIEF US calls on North Korea to free American citizen The United States on Monday urged North Korea to free a US citizen on “humanitarian grounds” as it sought to pin down the charges against him ahead of a planned trial by Pyongyang. The Korean Central News Agency said Saturday Pae Jun-Ho, known in the US as Kenneth Bae, had admitted trying to overthrow the communist regime in North Korea and would face “judgement” soon.
China nears US in money to Africa China committed more than US$75 billion (B2.1 trillion) to Africa in the past decade, coming close to the level of US money although the nature of Beijing’s support was far different, a study said. The report, released by the Center for Global Development, found that China committed US$75.4 billion to Africa from 2000 to 2011, just under the US$90 billion (B2.6 trillion) by the United States and representing about one-fifth of the total from all major donor nations. AFP
12 WORLD NEWS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Syria options ‘fraught with risk’ T
he likely use of chemical weapons in Syria ramps up pressure on US President Barack Obama to act, but any military options are limited and risky for a leader haunted by Iraq. The White House has made clear that it is not rushing into the conflict and stopped short of saying that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad had crossed what Obama famously called the “red line” of chemical weapons. Obama repeated April 26 that chemical weapons would be a “game changer but called for a vigorous investigation after the United States, Israel and Britain all cited signs that the regime attacked with the deadly agent sarin. “We have seen very bad movies before when intelligence is perceived to have driven policy decisions that in the full light of day have proven wrong,” a US defence official said on condition of anonymity. The official was referring to assertions – later proven false – by former president George W. Bush’s administration of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq, the justification for a 2003 invasion that brought eight years of war
that killed nearly 4,500 US soldiers and tens of thousands of Iraqis. Andrew Tabler of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy said that the use of chemical weapons would show that Assad was testing US red lines and trying to frighten the rebels into surrendering in the two-year civil war. “The problem is that American credibility is on the line,” Tabler said. “We’re at a turning point. How this crisis unfolds will largely be determined by our response.” White House spokesman Jay Carney said that “all options are on the table,” which “include but are not exclusive” to military force. Secretary of State John Kerry recently announced the United States would double aid to the Syrian opposition to $250 million. But the United States says it only provides “non-lethal” assistance, amid persistent concerns about the nature of the rebels in a conflict that has left more than 70,000 dead. The Sunni Muslim rebels are believed to receive military support from Gulf Arab monarchies Qatar and Saudi Arabia, while Assad – a member of the minority
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Photo: R Pinheiro Alawite sect – is allied with Iran and Russia. Nancy Pelosi, the leader of Obama’s Democratic Party in the House of Representatives and a staunch opponent of the Iraq war, said that non-lethal aid needed to be taken “to the next step” – but opposed deployment of US troops. No one expects a full-out military invasion of Syria from a nation weary after Iraq and Afghanistan, from where
Obama plans to pull out the last combat troops next year. The United States has stationed 250 troops, mostly special forces, in the desert of neighbouring Jordan to train local soldiers and potentially prepare for a last-resort mission to secure Syria’s chemical weapons. But General Mar tin Dempsey, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has expressed reservations over
the ability of the United States to secure Syrian chemical weapons, estimated in the hundreds of tons. The top US military officer, testifying to the Senate Armed Services Committee on April 17, said that seizing weapons was complicated “simply because they’ve been moving it and the number of sites is quite numerous.” Danielle Pletka of the conservative American Enterprise Institute said that the United States should begin the process of arming “moderates” among the Syrian rebels, a step supported by Britain and France. Pletka said that the United States could also cripple Syria’s air power and create a “humanitarian corridor” in the country. “These are doable goals, requiring no boots on the ground,” she said. But Representative Brad Sherman, a Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said that a no-fly zone was not a “no-casualties option”. In 2011, Western forces had to bomb Libya’s anti-air defences to create a no-fly zone in support of rebels who toppled dictator Moamer Kadhafi.
Before he stepped down, former secretary of defence Leon Panetta said last year that a similar effort in Syria would be “100 times worse than what we dealt with in Libya”. Syria’s air power dates from the Soviet era but is still significant. According to the Institute for the Study of War, Syria has about 650 static and 300 mobile air defense sites, along with around 150 air-worthy warplanes. Israel launched a covert attack in 2007 that destroyed a purported Syrian nuclear reactor. But air attacks on chemical weapons sites would be highly risky as toxic materials could be emitted into the environment. “The easiest move by the administration would be to pick out a valuable, discrete target of the regime’s and obliterate it – with cruise missiles and possibly manned aircraft as well,” said Kenneth Pollack of the Brookings Institution. “The strike would be a warning to the Syrians that worse would follow if the regime does not desist from further chemical warfare use and a demonstration that Washington will back up its red line.” AFP
Will you earn enough ‘points’ to win new US green card? FOR YEARS, MILLIONS of immigrant applicants hoped they would be lucky enough to win the US green card lottery. Under reform being considered in Congress, they may soon be asking: “Am I skilled enough?” By 2017, according to a proposed revamp of laws governing admission to the United States, permanent residency permits known as green cards could be doled out not on luck but “on merit,” via a points system that would put more qualified applicants at the front of the line. Are you a French computer scientist with a strong command of English, already living in the United States on a visa but whose employer is reluctant to sponsor you for permanent residency? The new system may work in your favour. Nothing is set in stone yet, but an 844-page measure, the most comprehensive immigration reform in a generation, is working its way through the Senate, and members of the House say they, too, are hopeful a bill can be signed into law this year. Ten criteria for immigrant applicants will be taken into
account in the system, which has a theoretical maximum of 100 points. Under the new system, a university degree will be worth five points, a master’s degree 10 and a doctorate 15. Each year of work experience will provide an applicant from zero to three points, depending on the employment level, for a maximum of 20 points. Are you a programmer, computer scientist, or software developer? 10 points. If your job is in an occupation related to your degree: 8-10 points. A TOEFL English language proficiency score of 80 or more? Chalk up another 10. Contractors who employ at least two people: 10 points. Clearly, skills and experience count under the proposed system – but so does youth. Those age 25 and under will receive eight points; 25-32 year old are awarded six points; and age 33-37 years, four. Those age 38 or above receive no bonus. A sibling of a US citizen earns 10 points, as does the married child, 31 or older, of a US citizen.
Community service will help. Those who can prove their “civic involvement” will be allocated five points. A final clause gives five points to those from countries with low immigration, which rules out Mexicans, Chinese and Indians. Unlike other countries that have adopted the points scheme, including Britain and Canada, the exact bar for immigration admission under the proposed US system remains a mystery: other factors are also at play. But if your score is among the top 60,000, you will gain a green card. Another block of 60,000 will also be awarded permanent residency based on criteria that favour lower-skilled labour such as construction. Until 2013, a lottery offered 55,000 visas per year. But Republican lawmakers have sought to end the programme, which makes no distinction between skilled and unskilled immigrants. The Senate proposal also provides quota-free green cards for extraordinarily qualified researchers, scientists and graduates of US universities.AFP
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
BUSINESS NEWS 13
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
AIRPORT SPACE RACE
Phang Nga, Krabi seen as back-ups for Phuket Airport
W
ith the Phuket International Airport extension, currently under construction, expected to be full to capacity as soon as it opens, the airport’s bosses are looking at other ways to handle the continually soaring passenger numbers. Several tough choices are available to the state-controlled airport operator, each with its own constraints. Sqn Ldr Sita Divari, chairman of the airport’s owner, Airports of Thailand (AoT), said the alternatives include adding further capacity at the airport’s current site, building a greenfield airport in Phang Nga or using Krabi airport, some 180 kilometres from urban Phuket, as a relief airport. Some 9.5 million passengers passed through Phuket airport last year, and AoT expects the number to increase to 10.5 million this year, 11 million next year and 12 million in 2015. That’s when the B5.3 billion expansion will be completed, allowing the airport to handle 12.5 million passengers a year. The airport is now forced to turn away many commercial
CG impression of the new Phuket International Airport terminal extension once it is complete in 2015. It will probably be working at capacity immediately when it opens. flight requests. Sqn Ldr Sita said further expansion of the airport through land acquisition nearby is not viable an option because of exorbitant land prices. Another possibility might be extension out into the sea through reclamation, but this could encounter environmental problems that would impede progress and make capital outlays prohibitively high. One possibility might be the resurrection of a 10-year-
old proposal to built an airport in Phang Nga, said the AoT chairman. A decade ago a new airport was proposed for Koh Phra Tong, a flat island just off the coast of Phang Nga. Another would require improvements to Krabi airport, now operated by the Civil Aviation Department, so that it can handle larger aircraft and more passengers, allowing it to be used as a relief airport for Phuket. Pratuang Sonkham, the
‘Half billion visitors by 2017’ VISITOR ARRIVALS TO the Asia-Pacific region will grow to 581 million by 2017 with an annual growth rate of 4.1 per cent, according to a new Asia-Pacific Visitor Forecast released Thursday. The study, jointly produced by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, forecasts 2013 will close with 494 million and expand by almost 100 million visits by 2017. Over the five-year period China will top the rankings, replacing the USA as the most popular destination in the region followed by Hong Kong
and Macau in third and fourth spots. Malaysia will take the fifth spot and Thailand will rise to sixth place. Predictions for 2013-2017 include: Visitor arrivals to the Asia-Pacific region will continue to grow at an annual average of 4.1 per cent from 2013 to 2017 and reach 581 million by 2017; Northeast Asia will maintain a dominant position in the inbound market of Asia-Pacific; its market share will reach 53.52 per cent by 2017; China will replace the
USA as the top inbound destination by visits in the AsiaPacific, peaking at 147.4 million visitors in 2017; Visitor arrivals to the Asia-Pacific region from China will exceed 122 million by 2017; Cambodia, the Maldives, Taiwan, Bhutan and Mongolia will be the five fastest-growing destinations in terms of visitor arrivals; The USA will continue to be the top destination in Asia-Pacific for visitor spending, followed by China, Macau, Australia and Thailand. TTR Weekly
general manager of Phuket Airport, said it would be possible to extend further the new terminal already under construction by relocating AoT staff housing. Potentially this would increase the airport’s annual capacity to 15 million passengers, he said. But passengers are not the only constraint, he said. Phuket airport will definitely need a second runway in another 10-15 years. Sqn Ldr Sita said shortages
of aircraft aprons and take-off and landing time slots are more critical constraints for Phuket airport than restricted passenger capacity. But Mr Pratuang said these limitations will start to ease as construction of five more aprons is completed this year as part of the continuing expansion, raising the number of aprons by a third. But Sqn Ldr Sita strongly advocated Krabi airport being turned into a secondary airport for Phuket, accommodating immediate demand for passengers heading for the resort island. He said he would discuss the matter with carriers such as Thai Airways International to see if they can switch some of their Phuket flights to Krabi instead. AoT may be prepared to offer incentives for them to do so, he added. Further down the line another constraint will be the length of Phuket’s runway, which already cannot handle fully laden large capacity aircraft take-offs, such as Boeing 747s and Airbus A380s. Bangkok Post
Chef Jack Yoss.
New chef joins Indigo Pearl resort THE PHUK ET I NDIGO Pearl resort has announced the appointment of Jack Yoss as its new executive sous chef and chef of the resort’s Rivet restaurant. American born Chef Yoss has 18 years’ experience in luxury hotels and restaurants throughout Asia, Europe and the United States including Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, Postrio Restaurant in San Francisco, W Hotel in Los Angeles and Barcelona and the W Retreat and Spa in Bali. “[Jack’s] background and expertise in pan-Asian flavours will bring an interesting mix to the kitchen, and we look forward to having him onboard at Indigo Pearl as we accelerate our foothold as one of the leading restaurants in Thailand,” said General Manager Kelly Lewis.
14 BUSINESS NEWS
Ministry to set up B700m tourist insurance scheme THAILAND’S MINISTRY of Tourism and Sports says it will seek B700 million to set up insurance to assist international travellers in distress to cover the peak season October 2013 to February 2014. The ministry’s permanent secretary, Suwat Sidthilaw, said he was preparing a proposal for the cabinet that will request a fund of B700 million to underwrite an insurance scheme for the peak season. “The insurance fund will act as a guarantee for visitors that their safety is being taken seriously at government level.” The insurance fund would cover death, accidents and other life threatening or distressing incidents that disrupt a holiday and need an immediate response and financial support. “The ministry is revising the conditions to correspond with today’s situation that differs from the past when the biggest concern was distress due to political clashes in the country,” he said. “The cover is being discussed and is likely to cover death, injury, mental stress, and physical disability.” In the past, insurance schemes were only valid if there was a political crisis,or failure in rule of law that could
disrupt a tourist’s stay such as a closure of an airport. The boat incident in Pattaya, last week, underscored the need to have insurance in place to build confidence. Sixteen passengers suffered minor injuries while another two tourists were in critical condition. But the subject of building confidence should go much further than providing insurance. Preventative action needs to be taken to ensure water and land transport operators hire responsible drivers and constantly monitor their performance, through GPS and other support technology to guarantee a much high competency level than is evident today. P r ev iou s c ove r p a id US$10,000 (B291,800) in the case of death, while it covered actual hospital treatment costs in the case of injury. It also compensated financially those who lost limbs or suffered impairment due to a bomb or other kind of security-related incidents. The new insurance policy would focus on transport related accidents and criminal attacks that endanger life or cause injury. TTR Weekly
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
DEAD-END ROAD? Khao Yai property boom heading for a legal wall R
ich families who own most of the new property projects in Khao Yai may suffer the most from a possible drop in land prices if the new Nakhon Ratchasima town plan does not allow any property development. These big landlords bought plots when prices were as low as 1,000 baht per square wah or 400,000 baht per rai 30 years ago. Since then, prices have soared as Khao Yai became a playground for Bangkok, and then rocketed up as after 2010 as Bangkokians looked for a convenient escape from flooding in the capital. Recently, a three-rai plot next to the popular tourist destination, the Palio Khao Yai faux Italian village, sold for B18 million a rai. Among the rich Khao Yai landowners is Pinthongta Shinawatra, one of exiled prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s two daughters. She is developing a hotel. On the other side of the political spectrum, Baan Rablom, launched last year, is a 42-unit condo project developed by Ngamphan Vejjajiva, sister of former PM Abhisit Vejjajiva. Early this year, the wealthy Srivikorn, Chearavanont and Chokwatana families launched condo and villa projects in
A piece of land next to Palio Khao Yai (pictured) sold recently for B18 million a rai. Khao Yai with a combined price tag of more than B4 billion. Nalinrat Chareonsuphong, managing director of property consultant Nexus Property Marketing, said there are two main types of developer in Khao Yai. One is developers with businesses and land in Khao Yai. These include Bonanza Group and Greenery Resort Group, plus small developers and rich families. The second type comprises big property firms such as Noble Development and Sansiri.
Werapol Chongjaroenjai, vice-president of the Korat Real Estate Association, noted that almost all projects in Khao Yai are launched in the Siam Paragon shopping mall in Bangkok, not in Nakhon Ratchasima. “The projects are vacation or retirement homes for the rich. Almost all the buyers live in Bangkok,” he said. “But if the new Nakhon Ratchasima town plan stays the same as in the recent draft, then property development cannot be done.” According to the draft, the development of subplots, housing projects, condominiums,
hotels, resorts, villas, golf courses and factories will be not allowed near Khao Yai National Park. Over the past f ifteen months, according to the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) and Colliers International Thailand, more than 4,500 real estate units, ranging from condos to high-end homes, have been launched in the Khao Yai area. Selling pr ices on the Khao Yai-Wang Nam Khieo Road were highest, at nearly B80,000 baht a square metre. Bangkok Post
Smile spinoff kicked back Most ‘unhappy with
A PLAN TO SET UP THAI Smile Airways Co as a subsidiary of THAI Airways International has been sent back to the national carrier by the Transport Ministry for further study. Deputy Transport Minister Gen Prin Suwanatat said after a meeting with THAI executives on Thursday that THAI was ordered to give more details of the plan and resubmit it to a meeting next week. The ministry’s main con-
cern was its affect on the revenue of THAI as THAI Smile plans to launch or take over some domestic and regional destinations from its parent. THAI Smile is a business unit of THAI. The company has been pushing THAI to set it up as a subsidiary so that the national carrier would wholly own the new firm and have better control of costs and generate more profit. THAI Smile Airways Co would be set up with registered
capital of B1.8 billion and use Airbus aircraft. “THAI should plan on how to generate revenue to offset those routes which will be operated by Thai Smile in the future,” Gen Prin said. THAI president, Sorajak Kasemsuvan, confirmed the airline was still waiting for Cabinet to approve a plan to spin off THAI Smile as a subsidiary company, but fully owned by the national airline. TTR Weekly/Bangkok Post
boring jobs, low pay’
A MAJORITY OF THAI workers are unsatisfied with their current jobs and many see their salary as too low, according to the results of a survey by a major recruitment company. Some 62 per cent of 4,621 Thai employees surveyed are not happy with their current jobs, while a third said a low salary is the main cause of their unhappiness at work, according to the survey conducted by Jobstreet.com.
“Low income highly affects dissatisfaction at work,” said Thanaporn Satitpunwaycha, country manager of Jobstreet. com Recruitment (Thailand) Co. Only 13 per cent of respondents were satisfied with their current salaries, while 65 per cent of employees surveyed said they were underpaid. A mere 9 per cent said their incomes were high enough to ensure them a happy lifestyle, she said. Other factors contributing
to dissatisfaction included having an unclear job scope, lack of skill development at work and poor relationships with supervisors. Asked how they planned to become happier, 58 per cent said they were going to find new jobs while 37 per cent said they spend their time off relaxing with friends or enjoying their hobbies. “Following salary, unclear scope and job content were ranked as the main factors for dissatisfaction at work,” said Miss Thanaporn. “Half of respondents stated their current jobs are boring or uninteresting.” Jobstreet.com is a leading recruitment firm covering Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Japan, Vietnam and Thailand. It has more than 80,000 corporate customers and over 10 million jobseekers in its database. Bangkok Post
16 BUSINESS NEWS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
BoT continues to resist Making the best of that ancient pressure over high baht forgotten pension P
ressure continues to mount on the Bank of Thailand (BoT) over the rising Thai baht. The BoT, however, is still resisting the pressure. It says it is closely monitoring the currency movements and relevant measures will be applied “at the appropriate time”. The bank’s Assistant Governor, Chantawan Sucharitkul, pointed out that every monetary intervention has side effects and long-term consequences, compelling the central bank to consider carefully the impact of any intervention. She pointed out that while exporters have been adversely affected, the strengthening baht has been a boon to Thai companies wanting to import heavy machinery and for those looking to acquire foreign businesses. Naturally, there are no complaints from these people. Ms Chantawan added that foreign capital inflows have boosted non-Thai investments in the government’s bond market by B140 billion in the first quarter – 60 per cent of that in long-term bonds averaging 4.7
The dollar has has been in free-fall against the baht since the end of June last year, losing 11 per cent of its baht value. Source: YCharts years and 40 per cent in shortterm bonds. She insisted that Thailand’s policy interest rate, which is similar to that of neighbouring countries, is not the major attraction for capital inflow. Investors simply f ind Thailand “outstanding” for its economic fundamentals and better credit compared with other countries in the region, she said. Payungsak Chatsuthipol, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), said the
private sector asked the Commerce Ministry to help boost border trade, currently worth B1 trillion or 10 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP), as a substitute for falling export revenue from the European and US markets. The FTI, in a meeting with the central bank, the Bank of Thailand (BoT), on Tuesday, was due to propose five measures to deal with the strengthening baht, including a one-percentage-point reduction in the policy interest rate,
and controls on foreign capital inflow, said Mr Payungsak. He said Thai exporters have been severely battered by the strong baht, with exports falling 40 per cent for jewellery and 30 per cent for industrial products. The textiles, food and auto industries are also likely to record reduced purchase orders. Pornsilp Patcharintanakul of the Thai Chamber of Commerce has called for similar measures. Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra told economic ministers meeting last week that measures should be taken to help exporters, and that government agencies should accelerate Thailand’s trade penetration into major markets including China, Indonesia, India, Myanmar and secondary markets including Russia, Brazil and Africa. But supporters of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD – also known as the Red Shirts) have called for Mr Prasarn to resign, claiming that the baht appreciation might lead to unemployment. MCOT/NNT
TAT to open language schools for guides THE TOURISM AUTHORity of Thailand (TAT) is set to open new language schools in major provinces across the country in a bid to shore up the nation’s lack of skilled tour guides. Tourism and Sports Minister Somsak Pureesrisak said popular destinations, including Chiang Mai and Pattaya, are in need of guides who can conduct tours in a third language due to a big jump in tourist arrivals from China and Russia. The TAT will survey each area to determine the language courses required. The agency will then proceed to propose a budget request for the project in the next ministry meeting. Mr Somsak also said that Thailand attracts a large number of low-income visitors, with upscale tourists accounting for only 10 per cent of the total. If the country is to reach the government’s target for tourism revenue of B2 trillion in five years’ time, the number of high-end visitors needs to increase to 20 per cent, highlighting the need for additional tour guides and operators. NNT
EXPAT MONEY
Jerry Dingley editor@classactmedia.co.th
MANY BRITS AND NAtionals of other countries who previously worked in the UK will have accumulated pension funds from their ex-employers or via their own private pension schemes during their time spent working there. I have come across many many people like this. They often have a vague recollection of a long-forgotten pension arrangement somewhere, but have no idea where it is now, how much it is worth or what they can do with it, and have subsequently written if off their personal balance sheet. A few letters, phone calls and emails later, we were able to tell them that they do in fact have a lump sum entitlement and what their options are. For someone who does not intend to move back to the UK there are some very real benefits in transferring to a non-UK pension arrangement. One of the main drawbacks of remaining in a UK scheme is that, on death while in drawdown, the accumulated fund is subject to a charge of 55 per cent before passing on to beneficiaries. For those planning to retire outside of the UK, this charge is not payable if death benefits are paid from an overseas pension scheme and they have been non-resident for at least five complete tax years. On retirement, all of the major approved jurisdictions allow for a ‘Pension Commencement Lump Sum’ (PCLS) of up to 30 per cent to be taken, as opposed to 25 per cent from a UK self-invested personal pension (SIPP). In addition, while the approved overseas scheme has to provide ‘an income for life’ from the pension fund, its Trustees are not restricted to using pre-set UK government limits for income, so individuals can potentially receive a higher annual pension amount. There are a number of other potential benefits that perhaps make a transfer to an overseas pension sooner rather than later a better choice. These are too numerous to list here in full, but among them are: Transferring before you can’t: Will it even be possible to transfer your pension overseas when the time comes? Overseas Pension rules were introduced in 2006, changed in 2012 and will almost certainly change
again before your retirement. It’s possible to effect a pension transfer overseas today, but there’s no guarantee that situation will last forever. Lifetime Allowance Limits: If a scheme, through investment growth, reaches a level that is over the lifetime allowance, any excess would be subject to a charge if held within a UK SIPP. This would not be the case if it is held in an approved offshore scheme. Domicile: UK-domiciled individuals pay Inheritance Tax on worldwide assets at the level of 40 per cent above the allowance threshold. It is very difficult to ditch UK domicile, and the UK tax man looks at a number of factors, generally surrounding your ‘intent’ to move back to the UK. Transferring your UK pension offshore may lend credibility to your claim of intent to be domiciled outside the UK. For those who do not intend to retire in the UK, a transfer to a ‘Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme’ has several distinct advantages but great care should be taken and professional advice sought to assess pros and cons before any transfer takes place. In some cases the best advice is to leave it where it is. Finally, a word of caution to those who do ultimately decide to transfer their UK pension rights overseas: – from 2006, overseas pension transfers have been possible only if the overseas scheme is registered with HM Revenue & Customs as a Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (“QROPS”). It is imperative then that you only transfer to a scheme that is included in the UK Revenue & Customs (HMRC) approved list to avoid unauthorized tax charges of 55 per cent. A full list of currently approved schemes can be found on the HMRC website Jerry Dingley of IFA Property Portfolio Services and business partner Tim Whiteley have a combined 50 years’ experience advising expatriates and international investors both onshore UK and in the Asia Pacific region. info@ qropspensioncentre.com\ Important Note – This article contains general information only and is not intended to be taken as specific financial advisory, investment, or tax advice. A personal analysis should be obtained before acting or refraining from acting upon any information given.
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Raksapong Khumkhuanjum, GM of Land and Houses Muang Mai FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Kristen Rossi on her book ‘Maid in Thailand’
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BRUNCH IS BACK Indigo Pearl re-introduce their Sunday brunch > 9
Photo: Kiri Heald
2 ARTS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY3,3,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY
Nepali temple gives spiritual support Jody Houton editor3@classactmedia.co.th
On this day we want our youth reborn as Brahmins (as scholars are known in Hindi society), meaning someone who comes close to Brahma, the supreme
Clockwise from top left: Two women representing the good and evil of Dukkha; outside the temple; young men starting a new chapter; a devotee wears a traditional Nepalese ‘topi’ hat.
D
espite having already served the Thai-Nepalese community for more than a decade, the Thai-Nepalese temple on Patong Hill was officially opened on April 19. The event attracted hundreds from the local Nepalese community, many of whom work in the tailor industry in Patong and other tourist areas, as well as a select group of politicians and local government representatives. In-between shaking hands and overseeing the day’s proceedings, Phanuphong ‘Daniel’ Limbuprasertkul, president of the Thai-Nepalese Association, took time to speak to The Phuket News. “We have many VIP guests here today, including nine Hindu priests from Nepal and of course the Ambassador of Nepal,” Daniel said, as we watched the lighting of incense sticks and offerings of food. The whole bright and colourful celebration had begun a few days before, with the initial offering of donations that included water, milk, honey, butter and rice to several newly installed statues. “These objects represent life,” explained Omjee Khodomkul, just one of the devotees wearing traditional dress, “and on this day we give these things back to those from whom we received life.” “The design of the temple was mainly done by Nepalese designers and painters,” explained Daniel, “Lord Buddha is one of our gods, but we also have many more.” Although similar to Buddhist ceremonies in certain aspects, Hindu events are also very different, with many acts such as the
ritual walking in circles around the new statues by devotees. “This reminds everyone that we are constantly going around the universe by dying, being reborn, and dying again,” said Daniel. Phuket Vice Governor Sommai Prijasilpa, representing the island’s government at this culturally significant ceremony, expressed the importance of the Nepalese community to Phuket. “There are around 1,500 Nepalese in Phuket and they do business very well and are important for Phuket industry – they are especially very good at tailoring.” V/Gov Sommai joined the devotees in many parts of the ceremony, including the pouring of holy water on her hands by the visiting priest. Milan Ghimire, the assistant secretary of the Thai-Nepalese Association of Phuket,
explained the significance of this, “In Hinduism, when somebody goes to pray at a temple, after they finish our priest pours water on their hands. This is holy water and very similar to when in the Catholic faith, a wafer is given to devotees at the finish of the ceremony.” Another curious sight for the uninitiated was the presence of groups of young boys with shaved heads and ponytails. Unlike in the West though, where the sight of a group of teenage skinheads might cause alarm, for the Nepalese this is an entirely peaceful practice and an act of devotion performed by young men on the day of Rama Navami, the birthday of the god Rama, which fell this year on April 20. “On this day we want our youth reborn as Brahmins (as scholars are known in Hindi society), meaning someone who comes close to Brahma, the supreme. From that day on, they pledge to always remember the supreme god and have to regularly meditate to the supreme god,” said Mr Omjee. “Removing the hair means making the head clean and the thinking new. They become a new person that is responsible, honest and thoughtful. To leave the ponytail is a symbol of Hinduism,” he added. Preparations are already underway at the temple to celebrate Nepal’s biggest festival, the 15-day long Dashain festival, set to take place in October. In the meantime, visitors of all nationalities and religions are always welcome to visit the temple, located down a side soi on Patong Hill. For more information, email sbdphuket@ gmail.com or call 089 719 1600.
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
PEOPLE 3
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Building houses and homes Nattha Thepbamrung reporter2@classactmedia.co.th
One of the main selling points of L&H is the quality of the housing material and our after-sales support. Customers can contact us whenever they want for any problems regarding their house. The L&H staff and the customers are like a family, and we can even recognise each other’s faces
The principal business of the Land and Houses company is residential housing development, concentrating particularly on single detached houses. To date, developments have been in the Greater Bangkok and its vicinities and in Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen and Phuket.
F
or Raksapong Khumkhuanjum, General Manager of Land and Houses (LH) Muang Mai, the current stage of his working life is not only the most successful, but also one of the most rewarding. Having recently launched 88 Land & Houses, and with plans for the development of the exciting new project Inizio Koh Kaew well under way, the next step for the 43-year-old Bangkokian is easy – both he, and the property developer company, have to “keep moving on”. Almost immediately after graduating from Thammasat Business School, Mr Raksapong was offered a position with Land and Houses Bangkok. Later though, he decided to pursue a Masters degree in Business and Administration at the University of WisconsinWhitewater in the US, which is where he said he earned some “invaluable experience and made great friends”. When Mr Raksapong returned to Thailand, he knew right away that there was only one place that he wanted to be. “I remember being back in Thailand for a day, but felt bored and that there was nothing to do, so I went directly back to LH Bangkok and resumed my work in a marketing position.” After a few years at the Rangsit branch, in Pathum Thani, just north of Bangkok, he was asked to come to Phuket to work on what was to be the first of many LH projects here. “My boss told me to pack my bag for a week to survey the project,” Mr Raksapong recounts. “That was 23 years ago.” Mr Raksapong is more than happy with that fateful decision, “I much prefer living in Phuket than in Bangkok because of the island’s lifestyle. There are nice beaches, entertainment complexes and many kinds of activities and facilities.” Mr Raksapong believes that the relatively small community, coupled with LH’s personal after-sales service, makes for a relationship more akin to that between family members than business. “Although our brand is from Bangkok, we have lived here for long time. So LH Muang Mai is like a half Bangkok and half local brand. We care about Phuket and want to build liveable and comfortable houses around Phuket.” “One of the main selling points of L&H is the quality of the housing mate-
An artist’s rendition of how Land and Houses’ new project, Inzio in Koh Kaew will look.
General Manager of Land and Houses (LH) Muang Mai, Raksapong Khumkhuanjum. rial and our after-sales support. Customers can contact us whenever they want for any problems regarding their house. The LH staff and the customers are like a family, and we can even recognise each other’s faces.” “LH is a friendly family service. Customers can talk with the staff, with managers and even me whenever they want. The customer can call us for any problems and opinions.” The first and biggest project (covering 415 rai) and the one that initially brought a young Raksapong down to the island – Land and Houses Park Phuket – was only officially completed two years ago. There are however three other ongoing Phuket LH projects that are keeping Mr Raksapong busy: 88 Land and Houses and the neighbouring 88 Land and Houses Hillside, both in Chalong, and the newest development – Inizio in Koh Kaew, which had its grand opening earlier this year in January. When asked, Mr Raksapong remains relatively tight-lipped about future projects, but says that LH still own a substantial amount of land on the island
Talk here inevitably turns to the ‘f’ word, with regards to the legal ramifications of land ownership and investment in the Phuket property sector. “Many investors, especially foreigners, are now realising that it’s sometimes not safe to buy land in Phuket and this affects the image of the property business,” he says. Mr Raksapong clarified that he believed that whoever is guilty should be punished, but added that the relevant departments should be ‘careful’ in conducting the investigations. Offering advice for Phuket residents and beyond, Mr Raksapong says, “All you have to do to be successful is to be patient and really earnest in your job. “I am pleased with where I am now. I feel that I have succeeded in at least one stage of my life. However, there are still a lot of goals I have to reach.”
4 EDUCATION
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY,MAY MAY3,3,2013 2013 FRIDAY,
BISP students will scale new heights
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BISP teacher Jeff Fuller climbs the wall.
tudents from the British International School Phuket (BISP) have a mountain to climb, and that’s not just referring to the curicullum. The BISP now has a purpose-built indoor climbing room and activity room specially designed for bouldering, a form of low height climbing which encourages strength, agility, balance and problem-solving. Design technology teacher at BISP Jeff Fuller designed and built the room. Painted with help from the Year 12 CAS students, the brand new bouldering wall has been designed to appeal to beginners through to experienced bouldering enthusiasts, with a variety of colour-coded routes, ranging from easy to very hard. The Rock Climbing Room has low-level walls with extensive routes traversing at various angles. This has been created to bring the best out of new and improving climbers with a variety of roofs, overhangs and vertical slabs to a height of 2.5 metres. This low height still allows for an extensive range of climbing grades whilst still remaining safe. The floor of the room is also completely covered with a crash mat, for added comfort and safety. BISP Secondary students can sign up for the after school Climbing Activity. For more information email Mr Fuller at jfuller@bisphuket.ac.th
Kajonkiet expands its premises and horizons
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he Kajonkiet International School Phuket’s (KIS) premises in Kathu are being expanded to coincide with the launch of the Key Stage 3 curriculum, and will be open in time for the new academic year in August. Rowena Dialino, the newly appointed head of Key Stage 3, is eager to get started with the expansion of the first stage of Secondary at KIS. “I hope to create an effective and inspiring learning environment where teenagers are eager to learn and broaden their experiences. “They will become effective participants; with independent inquiry, critical thinking, self management and reflective skills which allow them to work successfully both as individuals and in various team roles. “The skills and knowledge they will gain, whilst studying at KIS, will widen their future horizons by giving them the confidence and the abilities required for future endeavours.” Enrolment is ongoing. For more information, visit kajonkietsuksa.ac.th
Mexican teachers set fire to ruling party office
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eachers angered at education reform stormed the offices of political parties in southwestern Mexico on April 24, breaking windows and setting fire inside the ruling party’s local headquarters. Thousands of members of the CETEG teachers’ union, joined by farmers and student groups, marched in the capital of Guerrero state, Chilpancingo, while groups wearing masks took their anger out on the offices of four political parties. Plumes of black smoke billowed from the rectangular-shaped office of the ruling Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) in the state capital after masked protesters broke into the building and tossed chairs, papers and plants out of windows. Some spray-painted anti-government graffiti on the building, while others tore pictures of President Enrique Pena Nieto, who pushed through an overhaul of the nation’s flagging education system with the backing of opposition parties.
Police did not intervene while some 300 police officers protected the state legislature. Teachers have held protests in recent weeks, twice blocking the highway between Mexico City and the Pacific resort of Acapulco to denounce the reform that passed the federal Congress in December. The latest demonstration erupted one day after the Guerrero state legislature approved an education bill that fell well short of protesters’ demands to water down the federal law, which requires teachers to pass periodic tests to get jobs and promotions. Minervo Moran, the CETEG union’s spokesman, said the violent protests were “a reaction to the aggressive policies that are being imposed by the reforms and that’s why there was this sort of action against the parties” that voted against the protesters’ proposals. Moran warned that the demonstrations “could escalate, but it is up to the government and the legislature to find a solution.” He said the union would
hold a meeting later in the day to decide the way forward. Guerrero Governo Angel Aguirre called the violent protesters ‘vandals’ and warned that arrest orders were issued against those who committed crimes. He added that he asked for federal police reinforcements. PRI chairman Cesar Camaco condemned the attacks, telling Milenio that it was “a bad signal and this cannot remain unpunished.” Chilpancingo Mayor Mario Moreno asked for federal security support to control the situation. “We as a municipality do not have the ability to face a mob of 4,000 or 5,000 people,” Moreno told Milenio. Protests have also taken place in recent weeks in Oaxaca, which is among the country’s poorest states along with Guerrero and Michoacan. AFP
Education important for AEC Intelligence can be taught No.1 child’s brain development center,U.K. Program teaching through edutainment for children aged 6 months-6 years.
Contact us at Plaza floor HAFELE Design Center (opposite Big-C Phuket) Tel: 076-304128 , 083-3966501 E-mail : babiesgenius_phuket@hotmail.com www.babiesgeniusphuket.com
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lmost two-thirds, 61.7 per cent, of people polled recently believed Thailand is ready for the establishment of the Asean Economic Community (AEC) at the end of 2015, Abac Poll reported on April 24. The pollster surveyed 1,525 people aged 18 years and over in Bangkok, seeking opinions on Thailand’s readiness for the AEC, between April 15 and April 23. Asked about top priorities for getting the country ready for the new Asean community, 24.8 per cent said the development of an education standard nationwide, followed by improving people’s abilities in foreign languages, particularly English (23.6 per cent).
Asked the choose the top three countries they believed to have the highest readiness and potential for the AEC, 34.5 per cent pointed to Singapore, 25.7 oer cent said Thailand and 9.8 per cent backed Malaysia. Ms Puntaree said the poll results showed that the respondents gave importance to the preparation of both the people and the country for the debut of the AEC. She suggested the government and state offices equally and widely develop the country to improve the lives of Thai people, especially those in rural areas, and ensure socio-economic, educational and vocational capability and potential in line with those of other countries in the region. Bangkok Post
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
HEALTH 5
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Three steps to feeling super Ron Veldhuis editor3@classactmedia.co.th
The simple truth is that your overall health is a result of what you eat, how you move, what type of movements you make and, believe it or not, the nature of your habitual thinking processes
Ro n Ve l d h u i s i s a wo r k p l a c e t r a i n e r and motivator, a peak performance coach a n d a n ex p e d i t ion leader. Contact him at ronveldhuis@live.com
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elcome to ‘Supercharge Yourself’ – a three part series on how you can take quick easy steps to improve your body, mental state and spiritual wellbeing. The simple truth is that your overall health is a result of what you eat, how you move, what type of movements you make and, believe it or not, the nature of your habitual thinking processes. Therefore, this three part series is divided into: 1. Eat (nutrition): Workouts are easy, but the real challenge is in the kitchen 2. Move (exercise): Workouts are really easy, quick and fun 3. Think (mind focus): Train with your brain This month I’m starting with nutrition and food. This is the single biggest issue for most people – the old saying you are what you eat is true. The first thing you need to do is keep a day journal of what you eat and when (and also where and how you are feeling at the time of eating). Most likely, about half of you reading this are already listening to that nasty little inner voice saying, ‘That is way too much effort. Keep a journal with dates and times? Forget it.’ Well, there is an easier way and it comes in the form of a smartphone. All you have to do is take a photo of everything you eat and drink and it automatically stamps a time and date with it. All you’ve got to then do is put a quick note saying how you were feeling at the time, and save in a folder. Just doing this exercise may come as a huge shock to some of you when, at the end of the day, you realise just how much and what you have eaten. Make sure you include all snacks, drinks, supplements and medication – basically everything you have put into your body. Most likely you will be eating way too much, including processed food types with very little fresh fruit
England prepares for mass 1mn measles vaccination
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ngland aims to inject a million youngsters with a measles vaccine following a surge in cases of the potentially fatal disease, public health authorities said on April 25. The rise in cases appears to be due to a period in the late 1990s and early 2000s when fears over a discredited link between the MMR vaccine and autism were at their height, Public Health England (PHE) said. The MMR vaccine immunises against measles, mumps and rubella. Figures released by Public Health England (PHE) said there had been 587 cases this year to the end of March, following a record annual high of almost 2,000 cases in 2012. It comes amid an outbreak in neighbouring Wales, centred around the south coast city of Swansea, where the number of people who have contracted the disease between November and April now stands at 886. In London, Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt said it was time to “slay the myth” about the injection, which dates back to discredited research published in 1998 claiming a link between autism and the jab. The new £20-million (B90 million)
campaign in England aims to reach a million people, with the priority on the estimated third of a million youngsters aged 10 to 16 – around eight per cent – who are completely un-vaccinated. The further estimated third of a million who need further MMR jabs for full protection come next, with the remaining third of a million youngsters above and below the age group who need vaccinating. Experts believe the rise in measles cases can be mostly attributed to the proportion of unprotected 10 to 16 year olds who missed out on vaccination in the late 1990s and early 2000s when concern around the vaccine was widespread, according to the PHE. At this time measles had been eliminated in Britain, but coverage fell nationally to less than 80 per cent in 2005, with even lower uptake in some parts of the kingdom. After many years of low vaccination uptake, measles became re-established in 2007. According to the latest World Health Organization figures, 158,000 people, the majority of them young children, died in 2011 worldwide from the virus. AFP
and vegetables, and even fewer raw live organic foods. The key to eating healthy and feeling great is balance, so begin with these ten simple steps: As soon as you get up start with an alkaline drink. This can just be high quality water with a freshly squeezed lime, or
better still a freshly juiced organic juice with, for example, kale, cucumber, lime, pineapple and celery Balance your food with fresh fruit, vegetables and raw live organic foods Learn to really listen to your body; eat when you need to and always stay a little hungry Eat foods that are as close to their natural state as possible. This makes total sense and is really easy to do here in Phuket. We are blessed living on a tropical island with easy access to high quality, low-cost fresh live organic produce Eat five smaller portions spread throughout the day Drink high quality water or pure fresh juices half an hour before meals – not during meals Don’t mix protein and carbohyd rates in one serving Be in a state of grace when you eat. Relax and enjoy the experience Snack only on healthy raw nut and seed fruit or vegetables in between meals Drink at least three fresh organic juices a day as well as six cups of high quality water Just by making these small and easy changes you’ll soon notice you have more energy, feel better and enjoy the benefits of a stronger immune system. Give this a try and have fun doing it. See you next month for part two, when we look at ‘Move’.
6 PETS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY3,3,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY
Thai Ridgeback YOUR BREED
Jackie Perry editor3@classactmedia.co.th
Jackie Perry is based in Phuket but travels to judge dog shows all over the world. She is happy to answer any quest ions from dog lovers. Email editor3@ classactmedia.co.th
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he Thai Ridgeback is an old breed, which can be seen in Thai documents written more than 350 years ago. It was mainly used for hunting in the eastern parts of the Kingdom. It was also used as a cart dog, and of course as a family watchdog for properties. The reason the breed stayed pure was because of the lack of transportation systems in eastern Thailand in those days, resulting in the chances of cross-breeding being very few. This month’s breed is recognised around the world and in fact several have been taken to the World Shows at which an average of 20,000 dogs take part, and they have been placed very highly within their group – Spitz and Primatives. In fact in 2012 the Ridgeback from Thailand was placed third in this large and very competitive group. I personally saw one win Best in Group at a World Show in Amsterdam. There are many breeders around the globe who now appreciate the beauty of this breed. The general appearance is that of a medium-sized dog with a ridge of short hair running along its back. The body is slightly longer than its height at the withers. It is well muscled throughout as befits a hunting breed. The head is strong forming a blunt triangle. The skull if flat, the eyes almond shaped and the ears are set either side of the head and should be of medium size, triangular and inclining forward. The nose will always be black except in blues where it can have a blueish tinge. The
eyes will be dark but again in the blue can have a slight amber tint. The neck is slightly arched and leads into a strong and level topline. The tail is thick as its base, fairly long and tapering to the end. It is carried upwards with a slight curve inwards towards the back. The body is well developed with a good depth of brisket and well sprung rib giving plenty of heart and lung room which is essential when working in the field. The shoulders are reasonably well laid back and muscled and the hind quarters should be well bent at the stifle joint and hard in muscle. The skin is soft and tight and the throat should carry no dewlap – the loose skin under the chin. Colours are Red, Blue, Black and Isabella (light fawn). A black mask is preferable in a Red dog. The Red and Black will have a silkier flat coat than the Blue and Isabella, which tend to have a softer, more velvet feel to the coat. The ridge is of utmost importance and is caused by a ridge of hair growing in the opposite direction. The ridge can be of various shapes and sizes but must always be symmetrical on either side of the backbone and within the width of the back. Ridges can
resemble many things such as hearts, banjos and arrows. It has been said that the Rhodesian Ridgeback had some of the blood of either the Thai Ridgeback or the Phu Quoc dog from Vietnam, which is very similar but lighter in build and smaller in size. Rumour has it that these dogs were carried from the seaports to the eastern coast of Africa and they were mixed with larger breeds to give their great hunting ability towards a larger dog which could, in groups, tackle lions. The temperament of the Ridgeback is one of a wary guard dog, but it is an excellent family pet and when it knows its visitor it is very friendly indeed. From the point of view of grooming, this dog is so easy to look after. It needs a daily rub down with a damp cloth to rid the coat of any dead hair, and a weekly check of the length of its nails, which should be kept short to maintain a neat oval shaped foot. It will require a reasonable amount of exercise as it is a very active dog and therefore not recommended for sedentary owners. Breeders of the Thai Ridgeback are very proud of their breed and quite rightly so. It is a splendid dog for the tropics and a true ‘dog man’s dog’.
Pet
of the week
Crystal is a pure breed Pomeranian competitive show dog and belongs to Sasi. Crystal was born in Bangkok, but now lives in Nai Thon. She is one and a half years old and her favourite snacks are chewy snacks. Her favourite thing to do is being a super model – she loves the camera! Want to see your pet here? Email photos to editor1@classactmedia.co.th
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
WEIRD WORLD 7
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
THE BIG LIST WEIRD WEATHER STORIES Be thankful you’re here on a sunny island: a winter in China’s Jilin City (see story at right) hits a regular night-time low of minus-25 Celsius at night. Here are some tales of global weird weather. World wettest: the Khasi Hills towns in nor theaster n India state vie for the title of the wettest place in the world, where the average rainfall is around 11 metres a year (a typical year in Phuket sees about two metres of rain.) The all-time record of 22 metres of rain was reported in the town of Cherrapunji in 1861, with 9 metres falling in the single month of July, the peak of the southwest monsoon season. The local people have developed ingenious ways of dealing with the extreme rainfall, such as “living bridges” that have lasted for centuries, formed by guiding the roots of trees over streams. Falling fish: “fish rain” and “frog rain” are examples of a thankfully rare phenomenon in which otherwise flightless animals rain from the sky: rains of fishes and frogs are described in ancient text, and fresh falls happen with surprising regularity, including in recent years India and northern Australia (pictured). A likely explanation is that the tiny animals get sucked up into storm clouds by a tornado or waterspout. Hailstorm army: In 1942, a game ranger in mountainous northeastern India discovered a “skeleton lake” filled with human bones. Authorities feared they were the remains of a Japanese army trying to cross the mountains from China to India. But the bones are now thought be more than 1,200 years old, from a group of about 500 religious pilgrims who were killed by a severe hailstorm. Studies of the bones indicate they died in a rain of thousands of hailstones up to 20 centimetres across. Their demise accords with a Himalayan folk song in which a goddess outraged by strangers who defiled her mountain sanctuary rained death upon them with hailstones “hard as iron.” Human lightning rods: US park ranger Roy Sullivan survived being hit by lightning seven times during his career. He said the first lightening strike was the worst, and after the fourth strike he became fearful that some supernatural force was trying to kill him. Last year a 51 year-old Colorado man Bob Edwards survived a lightening strike for the third time, and he says it’s nothing to laugh about: “It hurts. I don’t know why it’s happened, but I’ve had enough of it.” Great balls of fire: the phenomenon of ball lightening has been reported for centuries: free floating balls of electricity and light, about the size of a football, which float through the air during thunderstorms. Ball lightening also has an eerie tendency to pass through walls and windows and float about the house, to the discomfort of many witnesses. No evidence of ball lighting has yet been found – but scientists recently proposed it may be caused by charged particles from nearby lightening strikes that collect on nonconducting surfaces like window glass.
Chinese man creates iced apartment block
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n apartment tenant in China accidentally created a frozen waterfall outside his eight-storey building when he left the taps on all winter. Wen Hsu was the last resident in the Jilin City building, which is scheduled for demolition to make way for a new shopping centre. Mr Hsu was worried the winter cold would freeze the pipes in the building below him, leaving him without running water. So he switched on a tap to keep the water flowing – and diverted the flow out the window, letting it to flow
down the side of the building. Now, after almost six months of winter, Mr Hsu’s solution to frozen pipes has created a eight-storey ice waterfall. The icefall has attracted attention to Mr Hsu’s housing problems – he says he didn’t move out with the other residents because the developers haven’t yet found him a replacement home. Now local officials have urged the developers to settle his housing needs, so that the shopping centre project can move on.
Big cat takes bathroom break from circus
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woman visiting the bathrooms backstage during a circus show had an unexpected encounter with one of the performers – an escaped tiger. Jenna Krehbiel had been watching the big cat show at the Isis Shrine Circus in Salina, Kansas before she stepped away to use the washroom. When she walked through the door, she came face to face with the massive cat, which had slipped away from the performance and taken refuge in the bathroom. “I walked in the door, which closed right after I had walked in. I saw the tiger; it was at most two feet in front of me, and I turned around calmly and walked back toward the door. Someone opened the door and said get out,” Ms Kehbiel said. She estimated the animal weighed more than 200 kiolgrams – but she says she didn’t panic because she’d been trained as a social worker to deal with difficult situations. The animal was later caught by circus staff, who assured her that it was well-trained and posed no
threat. But Ms Krehbiel wasn’t convinced, and she says she’ll probably skip the circus the next time it comes to town: “You don’t expect to go in a bathroom door, have it shut behind you and see a tiger walking toward you. “I prefer a zoo, where I know they won’t get loose.” Photo: Pat Murray
Left: the British-built Mantis hexapod - built for “cool”, not for speed. Right: inventor and driver Mike Denton with the monster machine.
Six legs good, says monster maker
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British man has built a six-legged diesel-powered walking vehicle that looks like a giant robotic insect. Inventor Mike Denton – an engineer who specialises in animatronics for the film industry – says he was inspired by science fiction movies to create the machine, which has taken four years and “hundreds of thousands of pounds” to perfect. So far the “hexapod” has has one formal outing at
a music festival, and he says a mining company and a marine research organisation are interested in the design. But Mr Denton admits the six-legged design is slow – it has a top speed of 1.5 kilometres an hour and can travel about five kilometres on a 20-litre tank of diesel. “It wasn’t built to be efficient and fast. It was built to look cool and insect-like and fun,” he said.
8 DINING
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY3,3,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY
Pearl of the orient
Back by popular demand, Indigo Pearl’s Classic 4 Sunday Brunch shines again It’s an incredible space that seems to be the very definition of ‘industrial chic’, with striking steel floors and columns, steel furniture, French 1940s factory lamps, leather ‘cone of silence’ love seats, and a seven meter high ceiling
Clockwise from top: the giant tuna at the seafood station; the delectable sushi display; just some of the delicious desserts on offer. Photos: Kiri Heald
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he title of Phuket’s best brunch is a much fought over title on the island, but one that regularly and rightly makes the top of many people’s lists is the Classic 4 Sunday Brunch at the Indigo Pearl. The stylish Indigo Pearl resort sits close to the quiet Nai Yang Beach in the far northwest of Phuket. Just a five minute drive to the international airport, it’s a popular place to stay for the jet set. Although you’d never guess it, the resort is located on what used to be a tin mine (the owners are third generation tin miners, and Phuket used to be covered by them until as recently as the 1980s) – hence the mining theme that runs through the resort. It’s the remarkable vision of American hotel designer extraordinaire Bill Bensley, who worked in collaboration with Phuket-based artist John Underwood. “We worked with John to develop and produce many of the unique characteristics of Indigo Pearl,” said Bensley. “The top hung garage door like dividers in the rooms, the steel columns and floors, and the extensive collection of sculpture throughout [the resort]
is the handiwork of Underwood. “Our first project started from a box of tissues made of woven pandan leaves that I keep on desk in my studio. I remember John telling me that he could do anything with metal, and I pointed to the tissue box and asked if he could weave metal like that,” Bensley said. “We bounce ideas off of each other all the time, and often build on each others thoughts, with the main idea being that there is no bad idea.” No bad idea indeed. One of the most striking areas in the property is Rivet, the evening grill room that also hosts the daytime Classic 4 Sunday Brunch. It’s an incredible space that seems to be the very definition of ‘industrial chic’, with striking steel floors and columns, steel furniture, French 1940s factory lamps, leather ‘cone of silence’ love seats, and a seven meter high ‘architectural ceiling’. For anyone entering the room for the first time, it has a wow factor that means you’re as busy looking at the décor as deciding what to drink. It is also the perfect setting for a brunch that manages to be both casual and classy – you don’t have to wear a suit, but an element of sophistication is expected of guests. As for the spread itself, there are a variety of stations to choose from, including Indian, grill, Japanese, and seafood – which serves amazing mussels, oysters, and lobster. Make sure you leave enough room for dessert, as
there’s an entire section devoted to it – including ice cream, cake, fruit and petit four. So is it Phuket’s best? It’s certainly up there. Make a reservation for next Sunday and you be the judge. Held every Sunday from midday to 3pm, the Classic 4 Sunday Brunch at the Indigo Pearl costs B2,150++ per adult with free flow beverages, or B1,950++ per adult with soft drinks and juices only. It’s 50 per cent off for children from 5-12 years, while children under 5 years are complimentary. For reservations, call 076 327 006, email restaurant-team@indigo-pearl.com or visit indigo-pearl.com
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Weekly SET MENU, 2 courses with soft drink @ 375 Baht
*AUTHENTIC ITALIAN, GREAT ATMOSPHERE*
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
DINING 9
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Left, Cafe’In on Krabi Road, with the 100-year-old wall to the left. Above, Kawinkij brothers Natt and Noon and chef Cartoon, centre, are three of the cafe’s eight partners. Below, a pizza slice is B45.
Bonding over caffeine and culture Claire Connell editor1@classactmedia.co.th
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ight young Phuket friends have joined together to open a new cafe on Krabi Rd in the heart of the Old Town, right next door to the famous Thaihua Museum (worth a visit if you’ve never been). Despite its ancient exterior, Cafe’In Thaihua Museum (it’s pronounced ‘caffeine’, geddit?) has a modern, loft-style interior. It opened on February 15, just in time for this year’s Old Town festival. The three partners usually found at the cafe are Paweenpongse “Noon” Kawinkij, his brother Nakarin “Natt” Kawinkij and cafe chef Sathapana “Cartoon” Rongthong. The other partners are Thu, Sone, Ae, Goo and Un, and all eight have been friends since their Phuket high school days. The cafe is ideally positioned to draw in tourists, as it is near the entrance of Thaihua Museum and it has the same owners. If you present your museum ticket, you can get a 10 per cent discount off food and drink – so it makes sense to drop by for coffee and cake after sampling some culture. The building, Natt explains, used to be a Chinese shrine. It was then turned into a shop, and then was left vacant for a year while plans were proposed to build a substation on the site. Locals opposed, so the eight men approached the museum owner and were told they could take over. It was a big undertaking. As with most converted Old Town properties,
the building underwent a massive transformation, including the construction of an additional ceiling to stop the leaks. There is still the original wall from the Chinese shrine, which is estimated to be more than 100 years old. Apart from its location, what really sets this cafe apart from others in town serving coffee and cake is its great outdoor garden area, accessed through the cafe’s back door. This large space runs the length of the museum car park on the other side of the wall, with a connecting side entrance. Concrete shed-type structures that were previously used by local street vendors have been renovated and now resemble colourful outdoor salas. Fitted with fans, these provide a great spot to sit outside on cooler days or during the early evening, and will even make a nice spot during rainy season. All eight men have other jobs aside from the cafe (many of the same partners are involved in running Fu Bar, a bar inside the Indy Market on Dibuk Rd.), but the space – the cafe part is fully air-conditioned – provides a cre-
ative outlet for them and their friends to socialise and relax. “I had always wanted a coffee shop,” says Noon. “One day we were all at a party, and talking about what we could do together, now that we’re all “grown up”. The answer was to hang out more. “We don’t really think of this as a business, we think of it as a way of life,” agrees Natt. There are a range of coffees and other drinks (all under B90) available,
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with a limited food menu that currently includes baguettes, sandwiches, pizza slices, and a decent baked macaroni spinach and cheese pasta – all priced at under B60 – plus the usual cakes and other sweet treats. In sum, with a relaxed vibe and friendly hosts, Cafe’ In is a great spot to get your caffeine fix.
Cafe’ In Thaihua Museum, 28 Krabi Road, Phuket Town. Open daily 10am to 8pm. Visit their Facebook page for daily food specials and updates, facebook. com/CafeinThaihuaMuseum. Patrons can use the museum car park free of charge, but the gates close at 5.30pm.
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The lassic 4 Sunday Brunch is Back!
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Every Sunday from 12:00 to 15:00 hrs THB 2,150++ with free flow of selective 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 www.indigo-pearl.com
10 DINING GUIDE EUROPEAN
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY3,3,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY List your restaurant here: call 076 612 550 or email sales@thephuketnews.com Ceramic Kitchen
Bodega & Grill
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
Mom Tri’s Villa Royale
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
FRENCH
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
KEE Sky Lounge
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
ITALIAN
SEAFOOD
Acqua
Trisara Seafood
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 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
Art Caffè
RE KÁ TA Beach Club
The idea of Art Caffè comes from the need to have a place to stop and enjoy something different. Meet friends, exchange ideas, propose initiatives, organizing events or reflect only reading, watching and perhaps enjoying a good cup of coffee. The exhibition space is an affront to the repetitiveness of the artistic culture of the island. Naiharn-Saiyuan Road, 076 388 546
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
DaVinci
Baan Kalim Restaurant & Seafood
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
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
Diavolo
THAI
Weaves 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
The Bistro Restaurant 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
INTERNATIONAL
Baan Vijitt Restaurant
All the Italian traditions in our bit, 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% off for selected beverages, soft drinks, juices from 3pm-5pm & 10pm-11pm daily. Opening hours: 3pm-12am Patong Beach, 076 340 138.
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
INDIAN
JAPANESE
Navrang Mahal
Tamarind Restaurant
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
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
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
Irish Times
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
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
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
BOOKS 11
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Learning to live with the help Claire Connell editor1@classactmedia.co.th
The book is designed for newer expatriates that have never had to deal with household help before, and also for more seasoned expats that have new maids that they struggle to communicate with – primarily Burmese but also Thai
C
laire Connell speaks to Bangkok author Kristen Rossi about her new book Maid in Thailand, designed to assist with communication between foreigners and their home help.
Tell us a bit about yourself. I am American, born and raised in New York. I have been in Bangkok since 2007 with a short hiatus in London in 2008. I have my Bachelor of Arts in acting; it is my passion. I work as a performer (actress, singer and swing dancer) in Bangkok. I have started my own show, Broadway Babe: Vintage Nights, one hour musical revues based around a loose story. My performance website is kristenevelynrossi.com and you can find Broadway Babe information on Facebook. What is your newly released book, Maid in Thailand, about? The book is a trilingual guide for dealing with your household help and them with you. The first section is a guidebook; where to look for a maid, things to think about pre- and post-hire, cleaning instructions, tips for your maid and so on. The second section is a cookbook with Western recipes, an ingredient index and conversion information. The entire book is in Thai, English and Burmese. Who is the book for? The book is designed for newer expatriates that have never had to deal with household help before, and also for more seasoned expats that have new maids that they struggle to communicate with – primarily Burmese but also Thai. Where did the idea come from? I got the idea two years ago. I had a Burmese maid that could speak Thai but only read Burmese and spoke no English. We communicated in Thai but written language was a problem. I bought a Burmese/English dictionary to help when we had issues, but when it came to cooking I had to print out two English copies of the recipe then literally hold up each ingredient and have her translate it next to the word in English. For someone with little patience and a lot to do, it was very tedious. I tried to find Burmese/English cookbooks but struggled so I thought, why not make one myself? Then friends of mine, photographers Dennie and DK Cody, suggested if I was going to make a book, why not do a full book? Not just on cooking, but a guide on running the house. So, I did.
WIN A FREE COPY! The Phuket News has one copy of Maid in Thailand to give away to a lucky reader. To enter the draw, email editor1@ classactmedia.co.th with Maid in Thailand in the subject line. In the body of the email, let us know why you think you deserve a copy. Entries close Tuesday May 10.
What research did you do, and what was the process to create the book? The book took about two years from start to finish. The information is a mix of things I have learned and found useful over the course of my time in Bangkok mixed with information and tips from other long term expat friends. I started out first with the cookbook. I chose a variety of dishes, a combination of ones I really like and ones I thought would go well together. Once that was finished I cooked them all again to make sure I was happy with the recipes I had (my friends enjoyed this part of the process!) and then I started on the guidebook section. I used several translators. Myat translated the Burmese and then I had another Burmese friend proof read it. With the Thai part, I had two translators translate the book and two additional proofreaders. What has the feedback been like so far? The book was released in December and this is the second print run. The reaction so far has been great. People are really excited to have a book that helps them communicate with their household staff, especially of Burmese
Kristen Rossi recently released her ‘Maid in Thailand’ book, a guide to home help. descent as there are not many books in Thailand in Burmese. The content is to be used by both the employer and employee. You are working on a sequel, can you provide some details? The sequel will not be a guidebook but about maids in Thailand; their stories.
Think the film The Help, but set in present day Southeast Asia instead of 1950s US. Maid in Thailand is available for B420 from traveleasyasia.com; by emailing kristenevelyn@traveleasyasia.com; at Chulalongkorn University’s bookstore in Bangkok; or online as a downloadable PDF at tinyurl.com/maidinthailand
12 TECHNOLOGY
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY3,3,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY
IN BRIEF Millions desert Facebook Social media giant Facebook has lost millions of users per month as alternative social networks grab the attention of users. A new study of social media in the US, UK and parts of Europe reports that Facebook shed six million US visitors last month, a 4 per cent fall. In the last six months Facebook has lost nearly 9 million monthly visitors in the US and two million in the UK. At the same time, upstart services like Instagram and Path are growing apace. In Asia, localised social media sites like WeChat from China, Line from Japan, and KakaoTalk from South Korea, are also drawing users away from Facebook.
Special ‘Saints Row’ edition
Gamers who pre-order Saints Row IV will receive the ‘Commander in Chief’ Edition, complete with an exclusive weapon, outfit, and vehicle. Users get to play a man who moonlights at the President of the United States, who faces the task of stopping an alien invasion. The Commander in Chief Edition features the ‘Uncle Sam Suit’, a ‘rocket launcher/dubstep weapon’, and the Screaming Eagle jet. The game is set to be released worldwide on August 23 for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC.
Xbox 720 price rumour wrap
Microsoft’s price point for their next-generation game console is still the subject of rumour, but possibilities include reports that the Xbox 720 will launch for a US$500 (B15,300) in November to compete with the PlayStation 4. Other price rumours include a US$300 (B9,600) system with a two-year commitment of Xbox Live Gold at US$10 a month (B300). Microsoft is due to unveil details of its new console on May 21.
Super Metroid
BLAST FROM THE PAST
Jean-Pierre Mestanza editor@classactmedia.co.th
Thought-controlled tablet ready to read your mind Jean-Pierre Mestanza editor@classactmedia.co.th
I
magine sliding through the screens on your tablet, launching applications, playing music, and taking notes – all just using just the power of your mind. Scientists at Samsung’s Emerging Technology Lab, in conjunction with researchers at the University of Texas, Dallas, are looking into ways of controlling mobile devices using only thought patterns. For this experiment, re-
searchers are working with a standard Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 tablet. Testers wear a cap that surrounds most of the skull and is connected with EEG-monitoring electrodes. The cap senses and measures brain activity to perform simple tasks such as powering the tablet on and off, as well as selecting music from playlists However, as the skullcap is attached to sensors via several wires, it is not ideal for everyday use although Samsung suggests they could create “a cap that people wear all day long.” The device picks up on what the tester wants to do through various actions such as blinking
and focusing on an icon. Scientists says that the device’s accuracy rate is from 80 to 90 per cent. “Several years ago, a small keypad was the only input modality to control the phone, but nowadays the user can use voice, touch, gesture, and eye movement to control and interact with mobile devices,” said Kim Insoo, Samsung’s lead researcher. “Adding more input modalities will provide users with more convenient and richer ways of interacting with mobile devices.” Mind-controlled interfaces are relatively novel, but they have already been used to help people who have no use of their limbs interact with computers.
Millions affected by LivingSocial data hack
P
ersonal data from over 50 million people was leaked by a hacking attack of daily deals web site LivingSocial – although reports say no data from Thailand users was compromised. The Washington DC-based website claims to have 70 million customers around the world, and the servers that hold the information on the customers from Thailand, Indonesia, South Korea, and the Philippines were not affected. The hack was made by an unknown group who made off with names, birth dates, emails, and passwords. Credit card information and merchant financial data was not stolen since the company stores that separately, according to reports. LivingSocial has not announced when the hack occurred exactly, but they are the latest in a string of major websites to have been hacked in the last two years. LinkedIn, Evernote, Zappos, and the PlayStation Network, have all had information stolen since 2011. LivingSocial CEO Tim O’Shaghnessy wrote in a message to users that the company was actively working with law enforcement officials on an investigatation. And he urged all users to change
Personal data from more than 50 million people around the world was captured by hackers from the popular LivingSocial website. their passwords immediately. “If you’re using the same password on multiple sites, now’s the time to change them. Use a password manager like OnePass, RoboForm, LastPass, and KeyPass, among others” said information expert Chris Wysopal.
TOP APPS THIS WEEK
TOP CONSOLE GAMES THIS WEEK 1
Injustice: Gods Among US
Xbox 360, PS3
6
Fifa 13
Xbox 360, PS3, VITA, Wii
1
Draw Something 2 (Game)
iOS, Android
2
Bioshock Infinite (18+)
Xbox 360, PS3, PC
7
Call Of Duty: Black Ops II (18+)
Xbox 360, PS3, PC, Wii U
2
Drippler (Updates)
iOS, Android
3
Fire Emblem: Awakening
3DS
8
Luigi’s Mansion 2
3DS
3
Focus Twist (Photo)
iOS
4
Tomb Raider (18+)
Xbox 360, PS3, PC
9
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14
Xbox 360, PS3
4
Tumblr (Blogging)
Android
5
Defiance (18+)
Xbox 360, PS3, PC
10 Far Cry 3 (18+)
Xbox 360, PS3, PC
5
LinkedIn Contacts (Social Media)
iOS, Android
D
o you rememb er Super Metroid? As far as sequels go, this could be the video game equivalent of The Godfather Part 2. The third game in a series, Super Metroid was released in 1994 to widespread acclaim and is consistently ranked as one of the top video games of all-time. The story takes place on the planet of Zebes with the user controlling Samus Aran, one of the best female protagonists in any game to date. As Samus, the gamer has to search for a Metroid, a large organism that has energy absorbing properties with the intention of bringing it to a lab to use it for good intentions. The game was lauded for its dramatic plot, weird (but amazing) enemies, and for pushing the boundaries of what an action-adventure game can be. Super Metroid also pioneered the art of automapping, helping give gamers a better sense of their game environment. Though it has received countless accolades, Super Metroid was developed by a team of just 15 people. Compare that to the team of 70 working on the upcoming World of Darkness. Despite its success, Nintendo decided not to make another Metroid game for eight years until Metroid Prime and Metroid Fusion in 2002. Electronic Gaming Monthly named Super Metroid the Best Game of All Time in 2003, and IGN ranks it third in its Top 100 of All Time list. GamesRadars list of the ‘Best Super Nintendo Games of All Time’ put Super Metroid at number one, beating out the equally awesome Chrono Trigger.
Do you have a Blast from the Past? Let us know at editor@ classactmedia.co.th
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
FILM 13
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
IN BRIEF
The Expatriate
One Bourne every minute FILM REVIEW Tom Metcalfe editor2@classactmedia.co.th
DIRECTOR: Philipp Stölzl STARS: Aaron Eckhardt Liana Liberato Olga Kurylenko RUNS: 100 minutes
A
fter the runaway success of The Bourne Identity came a cascade of knock-off spy thrillers – each with a slightly more affordable star than the last, with none matching the original’s mix of existential confusion and kinetic action. Now even the copies of the Bourne movies have copies; and in evidence I submit The Expatriate (released as Erased in the United States.) The Hollywood product cycle now rivals cellphones for rapid obsolescence, and a movie is barely in cinemas before it’s up for a reboot. And so here’s The Expatriate, using exactly the same story used for Liam Neeson in Taken – in which a decommissioned secret agent capably takes out the enemies who have kidnapped his estranged daughter. And they’ve erased his past, like in the Bourne movies, and like they did to Neeson in Unknown. Or was that Taken 2? Each borrowed hip European spy scenery and grievance logic from Bourne, keyed on the familyin-danger hook used for everything from Commando to Die Hard (twice, so far). Not only the same stories but the same actors come round again in head-spinning succession: Aaron Eckhart, cast here as ex-spy Ben Logan, appeared in cinemas only weeks ago as the US president, chained to a railing in Olympus Has Fallen. Morgan Freeman, the US Chief of Staff in Olympus, turned up the next month as the Chief of Alien AssKicking in Oblivion. Olga Kurylenko, also in
Oblivion, is back this week in The Expatriate, as the CIA chief in Belgium. As Logan works his way through a plot involving secret files, security breaches, smoking guns, car chases, arms deals, and international conspiracies, Eckhart takes an opportunity to flex his action-man aspect while holding his own against a series of forgettable foes. In contrast to Matt Damon’s almost affectless portrayal of the mind-damaged spy Jason Bourne, Eckhart’s glinting, chiselled determination make him an unlikely secret agent, because he’s just the sort of American hero you’d expect to be working for the CIA – or maybe that’s just what they want you to think. Even less likely to miss in a crowd is the gorgeous Kurylenko, as the CIA head of station who’s trying to help Logan – or is she? The action sequences in The Expatriate seem a little uninspired, by the standards set by the Bourne movies, and the locations in Brussels and Antwerp lend only scant glamour to the gritty proceedings. But it’s not all bad by any means: the performances from Ekhardt and Kurylenko are convincing, if not quite stellar, and 18year old Lara Liberato as the kid-in-danger is more appealling than her screeching analogue in Taken. In sum, aside from the slightly-slack tension, The Expatriate is a fair effort for a cookie-cutter action movie, and a better flick than many of its peers. But be ready for the feeling that you’ve seen it all before.
Film fest spotlights Bollywood’s cut kisses
A
film festival in India will showcase scenes from Bollywood movies deemed too racy for Indian viewers, including the first attempt at an on-screen kiss, organisers say. The “Cut-Uncut” festival in New Delhi will feature unedited versions of films which fell foul of the all-powerful Indian censor board, which continues to vet movies before their release. Portrayals of sex, nudity, social unrest and violence can still be kept out of movie halls under India’s strict laws that were first drafted in 1952. This week Bollywood celebrate its 100year anniversary, and the “Cut-Uncut” festival has organised by the ministry of information and broadcasting to demonstrate its more open-minded approach. “We want to be more liberal, stop enforcing the old rules and instead recognise artistic endeavor,” said a ministry official.
Until recently, “long kissing scenes, nudity and visuals depicting acts of rebellion against the government” were all censored. “With changing times, we want to have a fresh approach. Our aim is to change the old set of censor laws soon.” The festival beginning April 25 will open with a screening of the 1933 Bolly-
SFX Coliseum Phuket (Central Festival) The Croods (3D/E) [S] The Expatriate (D/E) [15+] Grean Fictions (T/E.SUB) [15+] Oblivion (E) [13+] Oblivion (E/F) [13+] Pee Mak Phra Kha Nong (T/E sub) [15+] Scary Movie 5 (D/E) [15+]
11:15, 15:40 13:25, 17:50, 20:05, 22:15 1:20, 13:55, 16:30, 19:05, 21:40 11:50, 14:25, 17:00, 19:35, 22:10 12:50, 15:25, 18:00, 20:40 11:30, 12:15, 13:40, 14:40, 16:05, 17:05, 18:30, 19:30, 20:50, 21:50 12:00, 14:00, 16:00, 18:00, 20:00, 22:00
wood classic Karma, starring Himanshu Rai and Devika Rani (pictured), whose onscreen kiss is considered the first in a Bollywood film – and which was deleted from the cinema release by the censors at the time. A 2004 documentary called Final Solution, which looks at the highly sensitive subject of Hindu-Muslim religious rioting, will also be shown after it was banned for being “highly provocative.” These days Bollywood is awash with sexually suggestive material and scantilyclad leading ladies. But sex remains a atrict taboo and films showing kissing scenes are given an “adult” certificate limiting them to viewers over 18. The most popular films remain socalled “masala movies”, a mix of violence, romance and comedy for mainstream audiences, but more and more filmmakers are working to reproduce the gritty reality of India on celluloid. AFP
‘Iron Man 3’ snub for China
Chinese internet users who’ve seen a leaked international version of the new Iron Man movie say they’re disappointed with the official ‘localised’ version that includes sequences set in China. The coproduction deal between Marvel Pictures and China’s DMG Entertainment called for Chinese stars and extra scenes shot in China, but most of the Chinese material has been left out of the international version, which reduces superstar Wang Xueqi to only a walk-on part. Some critics of the Chinese version say the extra scenese are unnecessary padding. The international release of Iron Man 3 hauled in US$195 million (B5.8 billion) in its first overseas weekend – it’s released this weekend in the US and China.
Filmmaker “spy” arrested
A US filmmaker has been charged with spying in Venezuela. Police arrested Timothy Tracy, 35, at an airport near Caracas as he tried to leave the country, where he’d been making a documentary about the recent presidential elections. But authorities say Tracy, who’s based in Hollywood, was trying to foment post-election unrest, an accusation he denies. Tracy has been formally charged with criminal conspiracy, making false statements and using a false document.
‘Pain and Gain’ debuts atop US box office
Action comedy Pain & Gain starring Mark Wahlberg and Dwayne Johnson grabbed the top spot at the US box office in its debut weekend, earning US$20 million (B600 million). The Paramount production about bodybuilders caught up in crime pushed Oblivion into second place: the Tom Cruise sci-fi actioner earned US$17.4 million (B522 million), ahead of baseball biopic 42, in third place with US$10.7 million (B320 million). AFP
US BOX OFFICE TOP 10 Film
Gross
$20M
$20M
1
Pain & Gain
2
Oblivion
$17.4M
$64.7M
3
42
$10.7M
$69.1M
4
The Big Wedding
$7.5M
$7.5M
5
The Croods
$6.6M
$163M
6
G.I. Joe: Retaliation
$3.62M
$116M
7
Scary Movie 5
$3.46M
$27.5M
8
Olympus Has Fallen
$2.77M
$93.1M
9
The Place Beyond the Pines
$2.7M
$16.2M
$2.31M
$397M
10 Jurassic Park 3D
SFC Jungceylon Phuket (Patong) The Croods 3D/E) [S] G.I. Joe: Retaliation (E) [13+] Grean Fictions (T/E sub) [15+] Oblivion (E) [13+] Olympus Has Fallen (E) [18+] Pee Mak Phra Kha Nong (T/E sub) [15+] Penthouse North (D/E) [15+]
Weekend gross
11:15, 13:20, 15:25, 19:25 12:20, 14:40, 18:50, 22:15 11:20, 13:40, 17:00, 19:40 11:50, 14:25, 17:00, 19:35, 22:10 16:20, 21:10 12:15, 14:40, 17:05, 19:30, 21:50 17:30, 21:30
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 ISLAND SCENE
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY3,3,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY
Elaine, Krista, Julie, and Abbey, 10.
Designer Cassandra McMillan and Antoine Melon of Trisara.
FASHION FUN Trisara provided the perfect setting for the Island Bliss fashion show on Saturday (April 27), which raised money for the Good Shepherd charity.
Designer Cassandra McMillan, centre with flowers, with the models.
Left, Cape Sienna Executive Chef Francesco Greco; and Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce Phuket branch chairman and Italian Honorary Consul, Dr Francesco Pensato.
Cristina Rubelli, Sayomporn Sangkaew and Diana Valero.
FINE ITALIAN FLAVOURS Five Phuket Italian restaurants were presented Ospitalità Italiana Awards on Thursday (April 25) at the Hilton, run by the Thai Italian Chamber of Commerce.
The award winners from left, Salvatore’s, Acqua, DaVinci, M and M’s and Da Maurizio.
Anna Serafino and Patrick Catellani.
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
ISLAND SCENE 15
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
From left John Grendon, Barrie Buck, Wahoo Managing Director James Neilson, Live 89.5 Station Manager Steve Johnston and Managing Director of Class Act Media Simon Samaan.
PARTYING AT SRI PANWA It was a fun time for all at the Wahoopia Below Zero party, held on Saturday (April 27) at Sri Panwa. The event included food and drink, entry to public access areas, boats and inflatable toys. The Phuket News was media sponsor.
A GREAT NIGHT OUT Everyone had a great night at the Hotel Concierge Association of Thailand event, held at the Blue Elephant restaurant in Phuket Town on Thursday (April 25).
Kok Thupthong, Chawalit Rodploy, and Vichai Kanjanavatcha.
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket branch director Chanchai Doungjitt, Dr Koson Tang-U-Thai, and Saharat Potito.
16 ISLAND SCENE
FUN AND FESTIVITIES Phuket Pride Week 2013 finished with a grand parade along Patong’s beach road on Saturday afternoon (April 27) and a concert.
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY3,3,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
ENTERTAINMENT 17
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
David Guetta to play in Bangkok
H
e’s one of the biggest DJs and producers in the world right now, and he’s performing in Thailand with his full production show. Retox Sessions, Bangkok’s foremost promoter of electronic music, is proud to announce the debut performance of David Guetta in
Thailand. The French house DJ needs no introduction. David Guetta blew up internationally in 2009 with his third studio album, One Love, which sold over three million copies worldwide. His name has since become synonymous with infectious tracks and catchy beats. The most popular recording artists in dance music have lined up to work with him, from Rihanna to LMFAO and Akon. Guetta’s latest album, Nothing but the Beat, features
the smash hits Without You featuring Usher and Turn Me On with Nicki Minaj. David Guetta Live in Bangkok takes place on Thursday, May 9 at Bangkok International Trade and Convention Centre (BITEC) Bangna in Hall 106. Doors open at 8pm. Tickets can be purchased via amiando.com or Thai Ticket Major. Pre-event tickets are B1,600 (plus VAT and ticketing service charge). Limited VIP tickets are B2,200 (plus VAT and ticketing service charge). For more information email info@ retoxsessions.com, call 02 262 3456, or visit retoxsessions.com or facebook.com/retox sessions The Phuket News and Live 89.5 are media sponsors of this event.
Party to raise funds for Rwandan girls
T
here will be an Ubushobozi Benefit Party tonight (May 3) at the Shanti Lodge in Chalong. Starting at 7pm, this fundraising event is being held to raise money for a group of girls and young women in Rwanda, Africa. The Ubushobozi Project was started in Musanze, Rwanda in November, 2008 by Alan and Jeanne Siporin and Laura Boyea. The goal of the project is to empower girls who live in poverty and/or are the head of household. This is done through education, life skills and other job related training. Training in sewing, weaving, English, women’s issues, business, computer and yoga is provided to the girls as a way to enable them to sustain themselves and their families. There are currently 11 girls and eight local staff members who benefit from the project. The money raised at tonight’s event will be used to help sustain and grow the project. Another such event was held in November 2012 and the proceeds were used to help an ad-
ditional girl. As the project has grown, many new programmes have been added to help the girls and women become independent and to care for their families. However, it costs money to develop these programmes which, along with the monthly budget that covers salaries, rent, utilities, medical, food and materials, are difficult to sustain. The project relies on the sale of the products the girls create, donations and fundraising. There are two choices of tickets for the event. One includes an Africa buffet, two drinks and live entertainment. The cost for this ticket is B750. The second choice includes one welcome drink and live music for the price of B350. A short presentation will be given by Jeanne Siporin and Petra Teslerova. All proceeds from this event go directly to the project. For more details visit ubushobozi.org The Phuket News and Live 89.5 are media sponsors of this event.
The Phuket fundraising party tonight will help raise funds for women in Rwanda.
18 EVENTS
List your event for FREE at thephuketnews.com
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY3,3,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY
A Night in Rwanda Ubushobozi Benefit Party on May 3 ,2013. Start at 7pm, at the Shanti Lodge in Chalong. This fundraising event is being held to raise money for a group of girls and young women in Rwanda, Africa. B750 includes an Africa buffet, two drinks and live entertainment. B350 includes one welcome drink and live music. All proceeds from this event go directly to the project. There are NO administrative expenses. See ubushobozi.org
FRIDAY MAY 3 Curry Fridays at Navrang Mahal Every Friday, all-you-can-eat authentic Indian curry buffet, B449 net per person. 7pm-11.30pm. Call 076 286 464.
SATURDAY MAY 4
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.
Live Music at Underwood Art Factory Every Friday and first Saturday of every month. The home of Phuket’s finest performers, coming together to bring a night of entertainment, delicious Thai Buffet and great fun. The Lost Legends band. All performed on a unique built stage at the Underwood Art Factory. For booking call 088 762 4505.
Sunday 2pm onwards at Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. B290 per person. See www.expathotel.com.
Sunday Carvery B399 per person all you can eat. Roast beef, BBQ ham, chicken, pork, fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and a glass of selected beverage. At Irish Times Pub, Junceylon Patong.
MONDAY MAY 6 BBQ at Expat Hotel 8pm, Expat Sports Bar, Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www.expatsportsbar.com.
SUNDAY MAY 5
Coronation Day (Wan Chat tra Mongkhon) Commemorates the coronation of King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1950. It’s a public holiday. May 5 falls on a Sunday this year so May 6 will be the substitute day.
Burger Eating & B-Boy Battle Competition
Pool Competition at Expat Hotel
Burger eating competition: the winner will get B10,000. B-Boy battle: have the chance to win B15,000. At Home Pro Village, Chalong. For more information call 086 281 4011.
Pool Competition at 9pm. Expat Sports Bar, Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www. expatsportsbar.com.
Fish and Chips Friday Night
The Good Shepherd Merchandise Shop Open
B250 per person. At Irish Times Pub, Jungceylon Patong.
Every Wednesdays and Saturdays. Plaza Del Mar, Laguna (Behind Bake). Time:
Sunday Chillout Session Sunsets Bar & Gusthouse (Patong). Chillout Session Every Sunday. Live Music. Free Bar/B/Q From 4pm. Free Pool Table. Happy Hour 12-6pm. Karaoke. Everybody welcome. 62 Hasib Pee Road, Patong. Call Joon for more Info 082 286 5171.
BBQ All You Can Eat 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.
daily event updates on Sunday Roast Pork at Expat Hotel Sunday roast pork or beef dinner every
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
List your event for FREE at thephuketnews.com
EVENTS 19
Saturday, May 11 2013 Time: 12pm - 7 pm
Venue: Dragon Park (Queen Sirikit 72 Years Chalearmprakiet Park) and Phuket old town streets. All participants get free T-shirt and souvenir from TAT Phuket. Dinner and award giving ceremony after post event + Consolation prizes. Grand prize: Winning Award Cup and 2 return tickets Phuket-Kuala Lumpur. Medal prize: Winning Award Cup and 3 Days 2 Nights voucher stay at Mercure Krabi.
Entry fee B199 per team (2 people). To appy contact at TAT Phuket (Temporary office: 1st floor Metropol Phuekt Hotel) 1 Soi Surin, Montri Road, Phuket 83000. Call 076 212 213 Email: tatphuket@tat.or.th
MONDAY MAY 13 Royal Ploughing Ceremony and Farmer’s Day Schnitzel Day Kokosnuss Restaurant - Every Monday, Schnitzel, fried potatoes and salad buffet B190 per person. Starts 5.30pm. For more info please visit phuketkokosnuss.com.
TUESDAY MAY 7
Pool Competition at Expat Guesthouse Pool Competition every Tuesday 9pm Expat Guesthouse Sports Bar, Patong. See map at www.expatguesthouse.com.
WEDNESDAY MAY 8 Labour Day
Quiz Night at Grizzly’s Every Tuesday night. Snacks available. Registration 7.45pm. B1,000 voucher to winners. Grizzly’s Sports Bar and Restaurant, located between Loch Palm Golf Course and Kathu Waterfall. Contact 086 951 4962.
Enjoy Wednesday Night at The Black Dog Bar 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. starts April 24th. Call Joon on 082 286 5171.
The government has established May 1 of every year as Labour Day just like most European countries. The objective of this day is to recognise the employee’s duty and responsibility they show everyday of the year. The government has marked May 1 as a public holiday. You will find most private companies closed, including banks. However, all government offices will remain open.
Ceremonies giving blessing to the country’s farmers are held on this day. It is officially known as Wan Phra Ratcha Phithi Phuet Monkhon Lae Charot Phra Nangkhan Raek Na Khwan. This day is also observed as Farmer’s Day. Each year’s date is astrologically-determined and announced by the Bureau of the Royal Household. A government holiday only, this ceremony revives an ancient blessing of the plants and ceremonial start to the new growing season. The action takes place on Bangkok’s Sanam Luang in front of the Grand Palace.
FRIDAY MAY 24 Visakha Bucha Day
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.
Falls on the full moon of the sixth Thai lunar month (May). A Buddhist observance commemorating the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha. Also observed as National Tree Day. On this, the holiest Buddhist holiday of the year, you will find the temples full with devotees receiving blessings and giving offerings. All government and public sector business will be closed, including most bars and pubs.
EVERY DAY
THURSDAY MAY 9
Phuket’s First Audio Video Interactive Pub Quiz 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.
B99 per drinks and selected beverages buy 1 get 1 free. Quiz master DJ Doris, from 91.5FM. Bar Tabs: 1 Prize B1,500. 2 Prize B1,000. Every Wednesday Night From 8 pm. Free entry. Maximum 4 people per team. At Irish Times Pub, Jungceylon Patong.
Happy Hour at Sugar Reef Pork Roast and Roast Chicken Every Thursday. Buffet includes salads, soups, mashed potatoes, bread dumplings. ALL YOU CAN EAT B190. www.phuketko kosnuss.com.
Happy Hour B60 on all selected beverages, B120 house doubles, and B99 all selected drinks. 4pm - 8pm. Also Sunday roast served from 2pm. B250 to club members. Opposite Tesco Cherngtalay. See sugarreefbar.com.
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
20 TIME OUT
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
This week in history
GOT YOUR NUMBER
■■ May 3, 1913 Raja Harishchandra, the first full-length Indian feature film, is released, marking the birth of Bollywood. ■■ May 4, 1979 Margaret Thatcher becomes the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. ■■ May 5, 1961 Alan Shepard becomes the first American to travel into outer space, on a sub-orbital flight. ■■ May 6, 1937 The German Zeppelin Hindenburg catches fire and is destroyed within a minute. Thirty-six people are killed. ■■ May 7, 1915 A German submarine sinks the RMS Lusitania, killing 1,198 people including 128 Americans, leading eventually to the US coming into the Great War. ■■ May 8, 1886 Pharmacist John Pemberton first sells a carbonated beverage named “Coca-Cola” as a patent medicine. ■■ May 9, 1974 The US House of Representatives opens impeachment hearings against President Richard Nixon over the Watergate affair.
641
Number of people massaged simultaneously in Thailand’s successful 2012 bid to set a mass massage record
58.6
Hours – kissing world record set by Thai couple on Valentine’s Day this year
33
Days – time spent in a glass tank full of scorpions by world record holder Kanchana Ketkaew of Thailand in 2009
19
Cobras kissed consecutively in world record set by Khum Chaibuddee of Thailand in 2006
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
The hydrogen-filled airship Hindenburg explodes while trying to dock at Lakenhurst, New Jersey, killing 36 people. Crossword by Myles Mellor Across
1. MMR vaccination protects against which diseases? 2. Who provided the voice for Donkey in the animation Scared Shrekless? 3. What is the connection between December 16, 1773, and modern US politics? 4. What are the two main components of brass? 5. Bishkek is the capital of which country? Answers at the foot of the page.
SUDOKU
53. Four Corners state 54. Ancient alphabetic character 1. Shuttlecock 56. Before, of yore 5. Ho Chi Minh City 57. End of boyish 11. Calendar abbr. period 14. Brother of Jacob 61. Potato 15. Burning measurement 16. Chemical ending 63. Track action 17. Developer 64. Commodore’s lyric, 19. Pilot’s “She’s ____” and announcement, home description briefly 66. Be off base 20. Watery motion 21. Watch the bottom 67. Ending 68. Boxer Spinks 23. Tree under which 69. Jamie Foxx’s Buddha was born legend 24. Storage cylinder 70. Out of it 26. Textile designer and printmaker Albers 71. Sheltered, at sea 27. 1545 council site Down 29. “Cheaper by the dozen” actress, Hilary 1. Bidding 32. Kind of room 2. Meteorologist’s line 33. Crumb 3. Talk aimlessly 35. Plane, e.g. 4. The Everly Brothers composition 37. Parked oneself 5. Riyadh resident 38. Real estate listing information, often 6. Away from home 41. Cow or sow 7. Under the weather 43. Kind of palm 8. Moves restlessly 44. Low card 9. Foreboding 45. Microscope part 10. Roman fiddler 47. Study, say 11. Gentleness 49. Medieval light 12. Wave catcher
13. One not wearing rose colored glasses 18. Eating places 22. St. Louis pro 25. Alfresco 28. Parent’s order 30. FYI part 31. Contractor’s measure 34. Ski lift 36. Opposite of sophisticated and advanced 38. All the renters on an estate 39. It may need massaging 40. Jersey call 41. Type of party 42. Greek woman who was a social climber 46. “Quiet!” 48. Clout 50. Fill up the tank again 51. Defoe character 52. Satellite of Saturn 55. A natural juice 58. Clods 59. Life lines? 60. Bond opponent 62. Kind of nut 65. 007 creator Fleming
Solutions to last week’s puzzles:
Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1. Measles, mumps and rubells (German measles); 2. Dean Edwards; 3. Boston Tea Party; 4. Copper and zinc; 5. Kyrgyzstan.
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CLASSIFIEDS 17
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Property PROPERTY FOR RENT
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For rent in Patong
Beach House & Beach Condo For Rent: Beach house in Cape
Near Beach 3 Bed Pool Villa: Fully equipped holiday home
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Panwa. 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 1 livingroom, kitchen and diningroom for 8-12 people, outdoor relaxroom for sunset meetings (no pool, in repair) and 2-rooms condo. See phuketbeach living.com.
East Coast Sea View Land
Main road from Karon to Patong-Close to Simon Cabaret. Multi Functional Building Total 700 sqm (15 metre front) 1-floor 350.sqm with 3 toilets. 2-floor 350.sqm with 2 toilets. For visit SMS (French) 080 035 1626 English 081 788 8280 Email: maurice.phuket@gmail.com For Russian contact: Oxana: 080 529 0726 Email:phuket.lux@gmail.com
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.
with private garden and pool. Within easy reach of Rawai and Nai Harn beach. For full details and pictures, please contact me. 084 850 1340.
Beach Land on Koh Yao Yai: Patong Lof t Rent /Sale: 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.. Call 081 4326587, 081 8915602
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.
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.
New Luxury Villa For Sale: 3 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.
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.
Vassana Residence. 2 Bedroom: Luxury 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom 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.
Land for sale” Beautiful Beachfront Land: Accommodation Available: Patong Tower apartment ACG Cricket Ground:
5 Rai raw land behind ACG clubhouse on long lease for compatible sporting facility. alan@acgphuket.com.
for long term rent. Fully furnished with kitchenette, security, parking etc. Right in the middle of Patong. More info call 076 344 922 or visit bluewaterphuket.com.
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.
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.
Luxury 4 Bed House In Laguna: Beautiful house over looking
Andaman Beach Suite Condo Patong Beach, Phuket: Has kitchenette, ter-
the golf course in Laguna. 4 bed, maid room, large s/pool, 2 lounges and security gates etc. For Rent or Sale. Con: Mick on: 084 818 6045 / mick_bat@ hotmail.com.
race, TV, CD player, telephone, WIFI, has full use of hotel facilities, restaurant, room service, swimming pool, tennis courts and gym. 120mt to beach, 5 minutes to Patong. email penthouse2102@gmail.com, 089 972 3861, 089 570 1519.
Surin Beach Office For Sale: Prime location Sales ofKalim Sea View, Freehold Condo for Sale/Rent: B11.9 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:
Luxury Ocean View Apartments for Rent in Kata and Karon: 1 or 2 bdrm, 2 bathrm,
206.4 sq m, Chanote title in Phanason residence(next to Makro). 1 min to Central festival, 5 min to Town. Call 084 061 4314, 076 393 965.
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.
kitchen, large balcony, parking, 24 hrs security, gymnasium, swimming pool. Ph: 076 486 624 and 086 281 9311. Email: bao200@gmail.com.
Luxury 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 e-mail to: condophuket@yahoo.com.
PROPERTY FOR SALE
fice/ 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.
Luxury Villa in Marina:
Hot deal price @ 39MB only. An exclusive 2 stories pool villa combines 2 land plots in Phuket Boat Lagoon surrounded by big trees, It’s provide greatest materials and design with modern style. 66 (0) 76 238 948, info@phuketpropertytrip.com
2 , 2 0 0 L and , N ai H a r n -B10.9 million for Sale:
House for Sale - Chalong: 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.
Royal Kamala Condo-Sale & Rent: In Kamala. Freehold 1, 2, 3
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
Bedroom apartment with kitchen, living room, balcony, swimming pool, fitness, security guard, parking. Ready to move. 085-368-3009,salesdirector@ royalkamala.com
F O R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE Ocean Front Villa for rent:
Shop Front for Rent:
The Royal Phuket Yacht Club shop front space for rent 4.34 M. x 4.37 M. Located on the first floor of a great looking area for retail shop, boutique etc. Call 076 380 200 ext. 601 Khun Naphat.
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.
Very Spacious European From Owner: Villa in peaceful 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.
LUXURY 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT 60 SQM. PRICE B2,700,000. LEASEHOLD. INFO: 084 843 8720. EMAIL; thewhite housekata @ gmail. com.
Kamala 3 bed pool villa reduced: Expat owner must sell health reasons. Beautiful home, plot size 892sqm, B16 million. Additional plot 1,372sqm, price B3 million. Best buy in Kamala. No question! Call 0862695108, 0807447625 Thai.
Free Hold Condo For Sale: 43 Sq. Free hold. 1 balcony (Great view). 1 bed room. 1 living room. 2 air cons. Full furniture. Internet. Swimming pool. Gym. Auto door lock and key card. Call 080 040 9077.
18 CLASSIFIEDS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
PROPERTY IN PHUKET
List your advert for FREE at thephuketnews.com
PROPERTY FOR SALE
Urgent 2 New Apartments For Sale: Because of divorced URGENT RE-SALE 2 brand new apartments. Welcome real buyers No agents. Call on +66 (0) 87 269 2274, Chrismar.
3 Bed Pool Villa Pa Khlok:
Freehold Condo For Sale: 45 Sq. Free hold. 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.
Balinese Pool Villa:
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.
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.
Budget Bungalows: Two Bun-
Sales Down Payment Dcondo Mine: 7th floor. with 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
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.
Single House Special Price Rent/Sale: Nice house
Hillside setting. Luxurious 6 bedroom, 5 bathroom pool villa for sale or rent. Sale 20M Baht. Rent minimum 6 months. High season 90K per month. Twelve months or more 70K PM. 087 078 6379.
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.
Freehold house for sale in estate in Cherng Talay. Land 735m2, floor area 230m2, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom. Many upgrades incl new carport included. Price B11 million. Call 083 509 8797 for info or viewing.
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.
Sea View Land for Sale: Ao Makham. 5.5 rai, B10 million per rai. Contact Siriporn 089 649 9939, email: siri_phuket@changrunner.com
N ew Condo Kat hu For Sale/Rent: Sansiri D Condo
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.
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.
Kathu, Fully furnished Studio type 29.7 sq.m.on 6 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.
SPECIAL TWIN VILLAS. 3 OR 4 BEDROOMS, 4 BATHROOMS. POOL, LARGE TERRACE, SMALL GARDEN. LIVING SPACE 400 SQM, LUXURY FURNISHED. PRICE B8,500,000. FREEHOLD. INFO: 081 788 8280. EMAIL: thewhitehousekata@gmail. com.
1 Rai Land QUICK Sale in Rawai: Beautiful land with Chan-
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
ote for sale, concrete access road, Land plat, electric & facilities ready to build your home. Direct contact Thai owner K.Dallas (Poy) 089 472 9870 or dchaibut@gmail.com.
Five Bed Luxury Villa For Sale: NEW. Beautiful Lakeside Villa
2 Pool Villas next to PIA:
Land Close to Thanyapura/PIA: Half Rai 1.3MB, 1
Freehold House for sale:
FOR SALE RAWAI BEACH
fully furnished with teakwood furniture, ready to move in. 240 sqm. 4 bed 4 bath, close to Kathu waterfall and market. Near Loch Palm, major stores, BIS and KIS. B45,000 per month. Call Oranwan 086 883 3169.
Kathu-Pool Villa for sale:
Home Office Near Thanyapura: New 2-storey home
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
in SURIN BEACH. Private Estate. 5 Bedroom En-suite. Unique Architectural Style. Private Pool. THB 35.7m. To view call 083 636 0245 or villasurin7@ gmail.com.
Building 3 storey for sale:
Laguna/Layan Beach Luxury 13M Salt-Water Pool Villa For Sale (Or Rent): Three large
3 Gorgeous Lots, Clean Titles: For sale or long lease. 2
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.
Ready to move in, villa 1 on 1,100 Sqm. land, for sale 15.9 mill and villa 2 on 2,200 Sqm. land, for sale 19.9MB. 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 securit y, only 80 0 metres from Mission Hills golf course, less than 10 mins to airport, Phuket International Academy and AoPor Grand Marina. Call 081 343 0777. Email: montha_phuket@yahoo.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.
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
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.
Urgent-3 Bedroom House for sale: 3 Bed, 3 Bath, 4 aircon,
B e a u t i f ul V i l l a R awa i: Beautiful 2 bed pool villa with sep maid’s room or 3rd b/room. Great outdoor entertaining area. 5 minutes to all conveniences. Reduced to B9,500,000. Call 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. Mail: thamad17@yahoo.com.
O pp or tuni t y K nocks: Nai Harn Baan Bua:
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.
B24,500,000. Deceased Estate Absolute waterfront. Occupying a stunning location on the east coast of Phuket this five-level villa has panoramic sea views from every level. Renovation work required. 085 793 2667. See exotiqproperty.com. Ref AB-V453, email: dmuir@exotiq.com.
fullly firnished with Chanote tiltle, 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: Between the city 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.
Investment Proper t y for sale!: New, modern waterfront townhome 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).
Rawai Great Buying: Lovely house with 2 bedrooms or separate SC flat downstairs.Well ventilated with natural light in pristine condition. Distant sea views. B5,500,000. Call 081 270 4291 or thailandmls@ gmail.com. See phuketpremium realestate.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 086 278 0007.
Land for Sale - in Marina: Design and build your Villa with Pool for Sale: Freehold 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.
own home in a good location and gated community. All the infrastructure you need is available such as water, underground cabling for power, telephone, ADSL internet etc. Contact: 076 238 948, email: marketing @phuketpropertytrip.com.
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Condo At The Heights, Kata: Immaculate 2-bed foreign-
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.
PROPERTY IN PHUKET H o u s e i n P h u k e t To w n / S a m ko n g 3 bedroom, 3 bathrooms
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.
Semi detached house with large 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, large open living/dining area and entertainment deck outside. Large western kitchen with all appliances.
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).
3 Bdrm House for sale Thalang: House for sale. 3 bedrooms and
Great area very conveniently located 5 minutes from all amenities including both international hospitals, Central Festival, international schools and the centre of town. Selling due to relocation.
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.
Priced to sell at B4.3M including 4 air cons. and all modern style furniture. Nothing more to spend. Contact (English): 084 768 0536 or (Thai): 085 888 0502.
F O R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE
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.
12 Rai Chanote to sell:
3 & 4 Bed Pool Villas: 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.
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.
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.
Mai Khao Prime Location Land: I will sell my piece of land
Rawai Condo Sale/Rent:
One + Two Homes for Sale with AC, Rawai: Main home:
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.
two bed, extended bungalow with outside kitchen, shower and seating salas set in mature, walled, private gardens. Own well, tanks and pumps. Sold, furnished. Will sleep 8+ can be sold with a 30-year land lease for non-Thai. Price B5.5 nego: Mobile: Eng 082 416 0150. 3BB WiFi internet also.
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.
House for sale near Loch Palm: Three bedroom pool vil-
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.
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.
la 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
Modern Family House for sale: Beautiful 3 bedrooms villa in Rawai. 160sqm indoor. 400sqm outdoor. Shared swimming pool. Modern villa renovated in 2011-2012. Fully furnished. For more info: phuketvillajas mine@gmail.com
F O R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE LUXURY 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT 60 SQM. PRICE B3,400,000. LEASEHOLD. INCLUDE FURNISHINGS.
LUXURY 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT 60 SQM. PRICE B2,900,000. LEASEHOLD. INFO: 084 843 8720. EMAIL; thewhite housekata @ gmail. com.
PATONG condos for sale: Beautiful, modern Condos/Apartments, furnished, best/quiet locations, garden, s-pool, from 36-67sq metre, sea-city-mountian views, from B2,375. Call 087 819 2162 or caltirol@hotmail.com.
Land for Sale:
400m from Naiyang Beach. 3 Rai 1 Tarangwah. 6.5MB per Rai. Call 087 091 8331 or email chiangmaibeltrade@hotmail. com for more information.
INFO: 081 788 8280. EMAIL; thewhite housekat a @ gmail. com.
Double your money in 5 years!: New Year special promotion: Studio in brand new, world class, east-coast development. Never seen on Phuket; Amazing luxury at real prices. Call 080 882 1377, email: beachprojects1@gmail.com.
Beachfront Building - Lanta:
Urgent Sales! Beach front 3 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.
Luxur y Villa 3 Bedroom Pool for Rent: New villa 320sqm NEW Studio Apt in Kathu:
30 sqm, 1 bedroom, kitchen, washing machine, aircon, balcony, fully furnished. Condo with gym, 24hr security, car park. 5 mins to Patong, Loch Palm golf. Good view. B1.25 million. Call 086 947 1273.
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.
Condominium in Patong for Sale: Less than 1 Km from
the beach, large 2-bedroom apartment with communal swimming pool and balcony. FREEHOLD (can be foreign owned). B7.5M. Call owner 089 724 7211 or julien@phuket immo.com.
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. Contact K. Peerawat: 084 308 8484. Email: peerawat200310@hot mail.com
Golf Course Land For Sale:
Near British Intl School, 17 rai with public road access. Suitable for resort or housing project. Can be divided. Price: B4.5m per rai. Contact owner 089 724 7211, email: julien@phuketimmo.com.
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 080 143 5294, email: alainter rat@hotmail.com.
Patong Tower for Sale: 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.
Golf View Villa For Sale: Near
British International School, state-ofthe-art villa overlooking the Loch Palm Golf Course: 4 bedrooms + maid’s room; 485 m2 built on 1,860 m2 land. B28million. Contact owner 089 724 7211.
For Sale Rawai Beach Special Twin Villa. 4 suites/studios, 4 bathrooms, pool, large terrace, small garden, living space 400 sqm. Include luxury furnishing 7.5 M House and Pool Bypass Rd: Very clean 5 bedroom,
3 bathroom house with 5 x 10 metre pool 10 minutes south of Central Festival, walking distance to Kajonkiet Bilingual School. To see: 083 301 3470, email: wpdrake@hotmail.com.
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
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“Simply more than office rental” Beautiful Naiharn Pool Villa: Furnished House for Sale Phuket Villa 5:
For your private or virtual office call Martin on 08 9874 9080 info@asiapacificoffices.com
www.asiapacificoffices.com
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3 bedroom furnished house near Kajonkiet School. Secure area, Cul De Sac. Nice gardens, two bathrooms. B3.5M negotiable. Call 081 370 8114 (Thai) 087 889 3838 (Eng), email:davidgem98@hot mail.com.
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.
Patong Condo: Makes a good condo deal now. 1-bedroom corner condo 56sqm, fully furnished. Only B1.99 million. Normal price 2.6 million. 10 minutes walk to beach and Bangla Road. Call 089 872 6895 or jospeder@live.no.
FO R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE 2 BEDROOMS LUX E 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.
Laguna area, Cherngtalay From 8m2 to 120m2
PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT. House on The Corner for Sale: Quiet location and only 500m
SeaView near Airport:
Beautiful Karon Villa:
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.
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.
3 - Bed House - Sale or Rent: Sun Palm Village, Chalong. Lounge, dining kitchen, 3 beds and 2 baths. Private swimming pool and easily maintained grounds. All furniture with fitted kitchen included. Ideal for small family or as rental investment. Contact 081 273 7326, Email: keithmarshall747@gmail.com
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.
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.
Rawai 6 Bedrooms:
Lovely 6 bedroom/office.Inc: 2 bedroom SC disable flat. Pool, garden, garage, storage. Opp.Tesco in well established area. Priced to sell at B9,000,000. Call 081 270 4291. Email:thailandmls@gmail.com.
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.
Seaview 1 BDRM New Condo Patong: Stunning seaview, 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.
Townhouse Chalong Bargain!: Town house on 3 levels with mezanine, 112 sqm, fully furnished, 3 BR, 3 bathrooms, 2 kitchens, 3 air con. Tasteful western decoration, MUST see, HP English 0854415115. Thai 081 555 1230.
Reduced for Quick Sale:
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.
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.
la with a large 9x3 metre pool, 2 floors, nice garden, car park and mountain views, 6 years young, 120 sqm floor, 2 bedrooms, chanote, located close to the centre & beach. Call 085 473 7812.
Land for Sale Cherngtalay: Beautiful 2,400sqm (1.5RAI) Rawai Beachfront Pool Villa for Rent/Sale: Rawai Beach front pool villa for sale. 3 bedrooms, furnished. Contact Siriporn on 089 649 9939.
Chanote titled land plot in Pasak 8, located on the highest point of a gentle slope. Quiet and safe area. Only 8MB. Email: Phuketlandvilla@ hotmail.com, 089 875 9609.
For sale: 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. 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.
tow n. 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.
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
Patong Bangla Building for Sale: B28 million, Chanote, 4
Pool Villa For Sale Nai Harn: Modern, open design vil-
Sea-View Contemporary Pool Villla: Located near Phuket
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.
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.
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.
Donsak Beachfront Land 3 Rai: 67 metres absolute beach frontage, fully infrastructured, ready to build. Close to ferry going to Koh Samui. Chanote title. 6.6MB for all. Email: nhoj0512@hotmail.com.
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.
Sea View Land for Sale: Ao-Yon, 13.5 rai, chanode title.10m/ rai.Call Siri 089 649 9939, email: siri_phuket@changrunner.com.
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PROPERTY IN PHUKET
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, toothbrush only required. Owner leaving. 17.5MB. Contact Brian (Owner) 089 054 4354, +632 906 435 7146, Alan 087 999 6174, bggvirgo@gmail.com. See RoyalPhuketMarinaCondos.com for complete details.
Rawai Pool Villa For Sale: 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.
Land for Sale:
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 Sale 2.95 Mb 1800 M2:
Patong/Kalim sea view condo: Freehold, 2nd floor, corPaklok Land Only B7,999/ Sqwah: Only B7,999/Sq wah at Paklok, Chanote, Mountain View, 200m from main road, 11 km from monument and 4 km to Mission Hill. Interested/Wanted larger size, CALL 084 305 6667, email: mari sar1978@hotmail.com
1800 M2 or 1.52 Rai, Chanote title. Near Ao Po Marina, Mission Hills golf, 20 min to airport or British Int'l School. Driveway and electricity supplied. Call Mark 083 392 007 or 083 502 8256.
ner unit, stunning sea view, pool, car park, security, best location, ca. 110sqm, 2 bedroom, German kitchen, all new, terrace, only a few metres to beach, B10.6 M 081 824 1385.
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.
6 rai Hilltop Land for sale: Near Mission Hills golf club, may split into 3 x 2 rai seperate plots, B4.2 million per rai, full chanote, water/elec. sea/mountain views. 087 978 5804 (Eng).
Beachfront land for sale: 2 rai absolute amazing beachfront, few min boat ride from Phuket, facing west to sunset and views of Phuket. B13 million per rai +66 (0) 86 278 8300 or izzy.serenity group@gmail. com.
Beaut i ful L and L aguna Cherngtalay: Chanote title, yelApartment on Golf Course:
Apartment for sale in Patong: Apartment for SALE in
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.
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.
low zoned, save 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
Land & House for sale: 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.
Amazing Sea View Penthouse: Panoramic sea view,
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.
Prime Location 35M Lake Front: Fantastic views over the
mountain view and Big Buddha. 310 sq metre, 2 beds, 2 baths with option to convert in 3 beds. Contact: Izzy +66(0)86 278 8300 or izzy. serenitygroup@gmail.com.
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 B2.5M. 087 276 0529 for info.
lake and Loch Palm. Very quiet, secluded plot but with all facilities ready to go. 1551 sqm plot, freehold leasehold with full Chanote title. 081 273 6959.
Thai House For Long Term Rent: Good location, nice area,great sea view. Near Bangpea Waterfall. Only B55,000 per month. Call Khun Pym 086 267 1063, thureewan@gmail. com.
Rawai Condo Sale/Rent: Sell 1.1MB, Full ownership forever-beyond 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.
Rawai Half Rai for Sale: Land Patong Condo for Sale: Ocean Front Land: 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: mon tha_phuket@yahoo.com.
My condo is ready for immediate sale located at Lotus Residence, a small 3-storey boutique condo of only 12 apartments total. It is located on a southern hillside above Patong Bay. Call 084 436 2540.
1 Rai Sea -V i ew L and: Land Plot for Sale:
Chanote title at Cherng Talay / Pasak7 (Phuket - Surin Beach aerea) Phone 090 487 8084. Email: utaipan@yahoo.com.
Opposite Wat Chalong on the way up to the hill, Chanote, ca. 36 m x 45 m, sophisticated hillside project, proratable, B8.5 mil direct to owner: 085 65 44 0 11 or 089 40 40 737.
plot 100 metres to Rawai Beach, about 850 sq.metre. Chanote title deed, private road with sewer, 3 phases electricity and wall around the land. Email: rawai.steen@gmail.com, call 080 530 6880.
Hill Land for Sale:
Very nice location hill land by the Bangwat Dam, total 60 rai, 96,000 square metre. C ont ac t: At t apong 0 81 892 0610 (Thai), Jantiwa 081 890 8268 (Eng). e-mail: jantiwa_ j@ hotmail.com.
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.
Seaview Land For Sale: Land located right in the heart of Chalong with panorama view of Chalong pier. Close to 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. Email: kubesjoy@ hotmail.com.
A b so l u t e B e a c h Fr o 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.
Commercial Building For Sale: 5M. x 18.30M.,3 floors, located 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.
BanYan Villa: 2 year-old 3-storey townhouse 31.5 s.q wah or about 126 s.q.m at BanYan Villa, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 1 kitchen, 1 aircon, fully furnished and located nearby Land and House park, Chalong. Price 3.2m. Contact owner tel 081 535 1252 Mr Krich.
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Jobs Assistant Manager (MD): Computer skills, be flexible, a good command of English (speaking/writing), motivated and be able to work individually. Work will include some sale and presentation. Thai applicants only! www.phuketadventureminigolf.com.
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Couple Wanted: 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.
Phuket Pool Tables is looking for Assistant Branch Manager for our lastest branch at Cherng Talay. Please send your resume to us at ying@phuket pooltables.com.
Villa Cook: Looking for Thai national, preferably with driving license and okay English for boutique resort catering for 10 to 20 guests with small friendly team. Thalang area or can live in. info@villasurin.com
Deutschlehrer gesucht: 2-3 mal die Woche fur 2 Kinder, 10 Jahre alt mit Deutschkenntnissen. Ideal Mittwoch und Freitagabend ca 5 pm und Samstag oder Sonntag. Zwischen Chalong und Naiharn. Tel. Rene Sidler 080 890 5187.
Chef Wanted: Fulltime, flexible, strong leadership and a good team player. The restaurant has an extensive menu with a focus on pizza, burgers and authentic Thai dishes. See phuket adventureminigolf.com.
BISP - Requires Staff: BISP - Requires Summer Camp Staff July 2013 The British International School requires experienced English S u m m e r C a m p S t a f f f o r J u l y. Applicants are required to have a recognised degree and a TEFL qualification. As it is a residential camp overnight boarding duties are required. Camp dates 29th June - 27th July 2013. Applications can be submitted to ppreez@bisphuket. ac.th.
Thai Admin Staff Needed:
Phuket Has Been Good To Us seeks English-speaking Thai admin staff member for full-time position starting 1 May. Must have min. 4 years office experience, preferably w/ accounting skills. info@phukethasbeengoodtous. org.
Coffee and Ice Cream shop Vacancies: - Cof fe Shop As -
Branch & Assistant Manager: We are hiring! Looking for a positive and energetic person to join our team. Phuket Pool Tables 081 823 4627, 085 782 1200.
Chefs & Waiters Wanted:
Rockfish is looking for full time chefs and waiting staff with experience in a busy restaurant environment for both AM & PM shifts. Good salary, tips & full service charge. Gan 0810859732
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
Female Cook / 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 & TV in high end resort style surroundings. Must speak En g l i s h. C o nt ac t b g g v i r g o @ gmail.com or 089 054 4354.
Financial Controller:
The Southsea Group is looking for a Hotel Financial Controller with good expirience for immidiate hiring. Salary will be based on qualifications. Send your CVs to recruit@southseagroup.com.
sistant Manager - Baristas - Waito r s / Wait re s se s - Bar A s sist ant s **Expierienced, Good English would be prefered, Presentable and Friendly. Call 086 276 4914.
S e n i o r E S L Te a c h e r Needed: PHBGTU charity is seeking experienced Senior Teacher to teach, manage teaching staff, and develop curriculum for practical, quality English language programme in 2 government schools. info@ phukethasbeengoodtous.org.
Live in Housekeeper Wanted: Exceptional conditions Siam Palm Residence Co., Ltd: is looking for an experienced Accountant /Financial Controller. His/her main task will be taking care of all financial matters of Siam Palm Residence companies. Requirements: A few years’ experience in accounting position. Proficient in English (speaking, reading and writing). Good computer skills. Must also be willing to assist in the hotel’s front office/reception. Service-minded, as he or she will be in direct contact with (potential) guests in the front office. Salary: negotiable (based on education and experience). Please send your resume with expected salary to: info@siampalmresidence.com For more information call Khun Joy at 081 6930 195.
for housekeeper who loves dogs and speaks English. Separate one bedroom apartment with everything. Has to be able to live in full time with us. Call on 080 690 5248.
DaVinci Restaurant in Nai Harn: Thai nationality only. Waita "mixed" club on Soi Paradise. Should like Leomeo, Tiesto, and Guetta. Must be Thai citizen. Call Adrian at 081 561 9114.
resses 2 positions, Bartender 1 position. Experience and good English will be an advantage. Good salary and benefits. Contact Khun Jana 086 947 5197, jana@davinci phuket.com.
AutoCAD operator: Leading re-
Office Assistant needed:
gional lighting design company needs full-time / freelance AutoCAD operators. Experience in lighting / electrical / M&E / architectural drawings preferred Some English required. See andaman lighting.com.
Mobile Car Rental is looking for a flexible office assistant/receptionist with driving license.English knowledge required. Work location is at Boat Lagoon. Contact nui@mobile carrent.com.
DJ Needed: Full-tie DJ needed for
Phuket Brasserie Jobs Recuitment: -Waitress -Bartender Salary B9,000. Service charge B4,000. If you worked in hotels before it will be an advantage. Contact 076 210 511. Send CV and photo to linkwanjai@me.com.
Hotel Marketing Manager: Experienced Thai national wanted for the budgeting & marketing to agents and OTA for an exclusive condo-hotel of 32 luxury sea view units in Surin Beach. Good salary for right applicant. 081 415 2884.
Live in Housekeeper/Nanny: Live in housekeeper/nanny who likes dogs working for European boss. Very good salary, insurance & use of transport. Long Term Employment. Good domestic facilities. Some english required. Call 083 391 7254.
Sales Managers And Reps Wanted: Club Tropical Asia is looking for experienced Managers, TO’s & Liners for the expansion of our successful operation in Phuket and Samui. Great product and huge growth potential. 084 847 1320 or salesbt@clubtropical lifestyle.com.
Guest Service Supervisor: 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.
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’.
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’.
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’.
Freelance Thai Editor Wanted
Full Time Public Relations/ Marketing manager
Thai Reporter Wanted
Class Act Media is looking for a freelance Thai Editor to produce the new Phuket FC match-day magazine.
The successful candidate must:
● Be passionate about football and Phuket FC ● Have strong editing and writing ability ● Be able to communicate in Thai and English ● Be willing to work to tight deadlines ● Have great communication and organisational skills ● Be a Thai national * If you have graphic design experience, then this position could be fulltime. If you love Phuket FC and are passionate about editing, send your resume to: adminmgr@classactmedia.co.th or fax your resume to 076-612-553
Class Act Media Co., Ltd. 99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 ext 100
Responsibilities :
● PR and marketing of our products & services ● Identifying sponsorship opportunities & liaising with event organizers ● Building relationships with local organizations, government & private companies
Qualifications:
● Thai National ● Excellent personal skills ● Good command of English ● Experience in PR/Marketing in print media or radio would be an advantage but not essential ● Existing relationships/network of contacts in Phuket an advantage ● Own car & ability to work flexible hours and attend events during non-work hours
We offer:
● Competitive salary & bonuses depending ● 5 day work week – (Monday – Friday 8.30 am – 6 pm) ● Friendly work environment & excellent progress opportunities ● Time in lieu policy for any overtime hours worked Interested candidates are invited to send application with full resume in English indicating qualifications, experience, expected salary with recent photo via email to hr@classactmedia.co.th or fax your resume to 076-612-553
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 www.thephuketnews.com
The Phuket News is looking for a Thai reporter to join the news desk. This is an exciting position that offers great career prospects for the right candidate
The successful candidate must: ● Be a Thai national ● Have a hunger for the news ● Be a proficient photographer ● Have a willingness to learn ● Have good English writing skills ● Be willing to work to deadlines ● Be a strong communicator
If this sounds like you, email your resume with expected salary to adminmgr@classactmedia.co.th or fax your resume to 076 612 553
Class Act Media Co., Ltd. 99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 ext 100
24 CLASSIFIEDS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
Buy&Sell COMPANY FOR SALE
PHUKET, THAILAND SELF STORAGE, POTRA COM, PRE-FAB 470,000 USD
WWW.SAFEWAYASIA.COM
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/thephuketnews
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @thephuketnews
Sunseeker 58 Manhattan For SWAP or SALE
4 cabins 3 bedrooms fully equipped located in Boat lagoon. With excellent place FREE for 7 years. Price 12 million or EXCHANGE for a Villa or Apartment in Rawai, Kata, Karon. For English - Email: maurice.phuket@gmail.com or SMS 081 788 8280. For Russian - Ms. Oxana Email: phuket.lux@gmail.com or SMS: 080 529 0726.
+66 81 892 4804, gordon_asia@hotmail.com
2 2 m . I n d o n e s i a n Pi n i s i Ketch: Licensed and registered 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 087 626 5366.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
Boat Sales and Charters:
Sale New Boat SR-21 Finished: Only B330,000. Samran 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: 087 265 8002.
Marine. We are professional boat builders, factory located in Pattaya, This model is SR-21 fully finished. We can deliver to your place. “This price excludes engine.” Call 081 782 0921. Email: nungnapong@ hotmail.com.
Want to build or charter your own boat to get out among Phukets many islands for fishing or pleasure? Then please contact the experts on 081 270 4291 or go to www. fishingboatingthailand.com.
Speedboat for sale - Hull Only: Excellent condition, 12.18m
A Steal For A Quick Sale: 2007 Italian demo yacht Cranchi 47ft Hard Top. Fully loaded with Tropical air con, genset, Electrical winches, garage, roof, Raymarine Premium Navy, BBQ, Ice Maker, 3 Fridges, “Bose” Sound, Neon light, Twin 570HP with reliable shaft drive, under 300 hours, Brand New Condition. Euro385,000. Call: 089 971 0278, eddyelan@yahoo.com.
Charter Boat:
62ft Hatteras Style yacht, 35 + 4 crew, large upper deck includes website: www. char terboatsphuket.com, price B5,370,000 or best offer. email: eastcoastefi@aol.com or 087 889 8044.
Ski Boat for Sale: Glastron CarlSteppa Fiberglass 32 feet Flybridge two 200 hp Yamaha outboard engines. Ideal for diving and tours. B850,000. Call 081 8942124.
furnished, TV, fridge, aircon, hot water, swimming pool, restaurant and spa. Located in Soi Nanai villa. Contact 086 300 9406.
Business for sale
Fiberglass Bowrider, 12mm thick hull, 600ltr fuel tank, 150ltr water tank, licensed for 25 passengers, storage area, manual head, 5 years old, B1.4 million o.n.o, contact 076 362 300 Ext.1801.
For further info email samos1941@gmail.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.
Sale New Boat SR-18 Finished: Only B280,000. Samran Marine. We are professional boat builders, factory located in Pattaya. This model is SR-18 fully finished. We can delivery to you place. “This price excludes engine”. Call 081 782 0921. Email: nungnapong@ hotmail.com.
2 Language & TEFL Schools: The schools are very successful due to the high demand of people wishing to learn English as Asia develops and plays a larger part in world affairs every day. These 2 schools are licensed with the Ministry of Education and the Cha-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 flow. Call 081 846 9193. See insightenglishhuahin.com.
KOH LIPE Dive Center for sale: URGENT SALE Speedboat Yamaha 200HP4s, Coltri Sub compressor, Nitrox system, 16 BCD, 11 regulators, 32 tanks, website, renewed TAT, buildings, 5 rooms for rent. Asking price 120,000 USD. 084 399 8978.
son design, Thai registered, 120ltr fuel tank, 200hp Yamaha engine in excellent condition. Includes trailer, boat cover, wakeboard pole, ropes and ski equipment. Call 081 894 5822, email: mark breitis@gmail.com.
liner, 200 HP (EFI) Mercury engine, Yamaha 5 HP back up engine. Blue book. Including: trailer, 2 anchors, and cover, Garmin deep sounder and fish finder brand new. Call 081 477 5637 THAI; 086 283 0082 ENG, RUS.
Sport Club for Sale by Owner: Set on 4 rai land with 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.
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.
Restaurant/Guesthouse for sale: Located in Kamala. 40
Speed boat for sale! Now B290,000: 6 metre body Bay-
Speed Boat For Sale:
Patong New Hotel for Longterm Lease: 40 rooms with full
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.
BOATS & YACHTS
Kawasaki 750Sxi Jet Ski Pro:
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
metres to the beach. 10 rooms with full furnishings. Restaurant 54 seat. Price B8 million. For more information call 081 396 0033.
Sale Bar, Hotel + 1 Shop Rawai Beach: Land plot 700 sq 6.5M RIB: New Hypalon tubing and
blue cover. On a fiber glass V shaped hull. 240HP Mercury Giving comfortable cruise at 25-30Kts and 40 Kts Max Ideal for family day trips to beach skiing etc. 081 273 6959.
metre+building+10 bed+10 bath+2 restaurants. Newly renovated. Private financing by owner. Down B2 million + 13yearly payment of 1MB. Own forever title land. 100 metres to Rawai landing pier. 084 242 8914, rawai4@yahoo.com.
Cement Production Plant:
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.
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.
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.COM
CLASSIFIEDS 25
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
BUY & SELL IN PHUKET
List your advert for FREE at thephuketnews.com BUSINESS OPP. CONT. 5 In 1 Business For Sale: 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.
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.
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.
FunStart: Family sports and leisure
Blue Canyon Golf Memb e r s h i p: Blue Canyon
Tile I t: Thalang.
25 year lease for sale. Well situated in a fast developing and sought after area close to Laguna. Some fixed rent applies. Contact 087 884 0644 for more info.
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
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
Golf Lifetime membership for sale! Excellent saving! B89,500 Call 084 052 2277.
HO NDA CIT Y ' 03 1,5AT, 118XXXkm: Very reliably & 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. Call 083 102 0070.
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.
BUSINESS SERVICES
Golf M emb er ship for Sale: Loch Palm 500,000 Baht. Buyer pays for transfer. 083 388 5566. Email borst.jg@gmail.com
commercial air hockey tables is here, More durable with a completely new and upgraded playing experience Check out our exciting news at www. facebook.com/thailandpooltables.
Phuket Cooking Academy: Cooking and baking classes have never been more fun using our top-class 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 w w w.phuketcooking-academy.com or call 081 821 4064.
St. Demetrius Ikon For Sale: Russian Or thodox Ikon of St. Demetrius of Salonika, Oil on canvas, 200 years old, for sale. Only serious enquiries please. Pics on request. 090 494 7998.
Moveable Container Shop or Bar: Large container style building used as beach bar for sale. Can be broken down to move locations as a kit set style item. Two doors and Two service windows. Call Marina 081 370 6588 Thai/Eng.
WRITE YOUR CLASSIFIED
Toyota Vios For Sale:
2007 lady owner perfect condition B359,000. Tel 081 125 1873, gordon_ asia@ hotmail.com.
CLUBS & MEMBERSHIPS
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS FOR SALE The New Generation Air Hockey: The next generation of
club. Swimming/golf/ playcentre/ gaming arcade. Contact 076 203 185, 087 882 5544. See funstart phuket.com. vised for B100,000. Fast and agile. B245,000. Contact Yupin English and Thai: 081 817 4805.
2 Rai, Cherngtalay:
COOKING CLASS
CHILDREN’S CLUB
PREMIUM: PAY ONCE UNTIL SOLD B2,799+VAT. PAY ONCE UNTIL SOLD WILL RUN ONLINE AND IN EVERY PRINT EDITION UNTIL YOU HAVE SOLD. INCLUDES ADDITIONAL 9 PICTURES ONLINE.
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Mazda 2 For Sale: One year old 7,500km. automatic, smart lock, park distance control, air bags, CD stereo, controlled on steering wheel B490,000 moving must sell, contact Thai/English: 090 165 0875.
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Nissan NV 1.6 Pick Up, 2006: One hand, private. Only 96,000 km. Looks like new. The car is totally re-
CHILDCARE
189 CHARACTERS
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Hi Every One:
Lose Weight Feel Great!: Organic, Delicious, Nutritious Fruit & Vegetable Juice Detox programs from 5,000 baht Delivered To Your Door www.weightwatchdetox.com Contact 083 345 5540.
My name is Tida, only the other day my owner told me to find a new home that she had enough of me and I’m too old or she will put me outside, can you believe that after 3 years of faithful service I took her wherever she wanted to go and never never let her down once. Now I’m looking for new owner, she must be nice to me, please buy me as I don’t want to sleep outside. I’m still very young, only just over 3 years old, I have big heart and strong legs as I not travel much. I’m fully automatic and come with all trimmings. Please don’t call her, call my friend John 0872760529 if you want to see me.
Online upgrades:
Website link B199
Print upgrades:
Extra lines B99
Urgent banner B199 Box B199
Colour Background B199
Colour Headlines B199
Buds Nursery:
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.
INCLUDE NOVOSTI PHUKETA PHUKET’S ONLY RUSSIAN NEWSPAPER (FREE TRANSLATION TO RUSSIAN) B1,699+VAT.
DEADLINE: MONDAY 11.59PM (MIDNIGHT) FOR THAT WEEKS ISSUE Hand this in at agent shops, our office or fax: 076 612 553
26 CLASSIFIEDS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
BUY & SELL IN PHUKET 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. For serious interest email: thewhitehousekata@gmail.com for RUSSIAN; Ms. Oxana Email: phuket.lux@gmail.com
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS FOR SALE Health Food: Online health food in Thailand. Good karma, all natural, healthy, and organic products. Please contact 082 276 1675, w w w.good karmathailand.com.
Canon 5D Mark 2:
For sale, Canon 5D Mark 2 body, B 25,000, Call Dan on 084 841 7339.
List your advert for FREE at thephuketnews.com
Clearance Sale
Sailboat for Sale/or TRADE
SAFEWAY THALANG * Liquidation Goods *Unpaid Storage *Repossessions Office Furniture, Bathroom ware, Jacuzzis, Water Tanks, Motor Bikes and more
2 mast 17 metre (50 c.v. Yanmar engine) excellent condition Fully equipped located in Chalong. Valuations price B15 million. Price NOW! 9.8 million - OR TO EXCHANGE. For a villa/apartment in Rawai, Kata, Karon Phuket.
Main Highway Thalang 081 125 1873 - 081 892 4804
Email maurice.phuket@gmail.com or SMS 081 788 8280 For Russian contact Oxana 080 529 0726 or Email: phuket.lux@gmail.com
MOVING & STORAGE Motorbike Trailer with Tow bar: Professionally built motorbike trailer, with tow bar and coupling. Cost B45,000 to build, will sell for B25,000. Ideal for dog caring or shopping. Very stable. Please ring 084 858 1917.
Backgammon: Player s Want ed. Tel: 081 577 8443, email: phuketconn e c t i o n @ ya h o o. com
Why buy a pet?:
Soi Dog Foundation have over 300 beautiful dogs and puppies available for adoption. Fully vaccinated and sterilised. Contact 085 574 4258 or email: cindy@ soidog.org.
PET HOSPITAL Chaofah Pet Hospital: 8/28–29 Moo 9, Chaofah East Road. Contact 076 283 365.
We Sell Boxes & Moving Supplies: At MY STORAGE Self
POOL TABLES
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.
Rode Video Mic:
The RØDE VideoMic is a professional grade 1/2" condenser shotgun microphone designed for use with consumer video cameras and personal audio recorders. (Camera not included). Call 084 304 2587.
Coin Operated Pool Table: Coin operated pool table for sales, rent, profit sharing. All billiard accessoriess & services. Call us now 085 782 1200, 081 823 4627. Special rate for April & May 2013.
SPORTING GOODS & EXERCISE Ocean Kyak For Sale: For Sale, "Mirage" ocean kyak, 6 meters, Kevla hull, electric pump and all the gear, near new. 081 958 6754, johnhideaway @hotmail.com
PERSONAL SERVICES VALCUCINE for sale: VALCUCINE showroom kitchen for sale due to renovation. 3 years old / good condition / Walnut material with Stainless Steel worktop /hob / hood sink and tap. Please call English (084 240 6688) and Thai (081 484 2565).
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Looking for a VISA Service?
Premium Pool Tables: All range
Visa to China, India or Shenzen &
of pool table, snooker table, foosball and game machine. We Sell, Rent, Profit share. Commercial and home use. We are a local company that you can trust. facebook.com/thailand pooltables. 081 823 4627.
no need to fly to Bangkok. Check all procedures by email to jryjariya@ gmail.com or contact 080 887 4431.
PET ADOPTION
MTB, Super top spec - Brain F+R Shocks, SRAM XX drive train, Hope Race brakes, Mavix SLR wheels. Large size (180 cm+). Midlife crisis dream machine. B125,000. 081 737 0722.
Dining Pool Table: “Dining Pool Table” by Thailand Pool Tables. Our tables combine great design with a dining pool table. Convertible in just a second! Come complete with accessories. Call now 081 823 4627.
W E A R E LO O K I N G FOR A NEW HOME Several rescued dogs, Cute, cuddly & groomed ready to be loved. For more photos visit www.doggieheaven.net Or contact: Sherin.peace@gmail.com ***Vaccinated & sterilised
Specialised Carbon Full Suss: Stumpjumper FSR Carbon
Kite Surf Equipment for Sale: 2 new boards, never used. 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.
28 PHUKET SPORT
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Of pirates and mermaids CAST AWAY Jim Stewart editor@classactmedia.co.th
W
hat an exciting end to April. After a spate of thefts from boats in Phuket, when the yacht Da Vinci’s silent alarm went off the captain went out to the boat and was greeted by gunfire. Police were alerted and the boys at the Chalong Beach bars witnessed a gun battle between the cops and the pirates – who had already knifed a farang who was sleeping on his boat and surprised them as they came on board. All the culprits are now in custody so let’s hope all you guys from the PGFC (Phuket Game Fishing Club) get your gear back now that the water has cooled down after the rain and the fish are jumping again. Lots of GT’s (giant trevallies or kingfish) around Buddha Island, and has anyone else noticed there seems to be many more Long Toms (garfish/sea needles/crocodile fish) than usual? Closer to home, for those of you who have been at my
BIS swim team hosts all-Asia tournament SWIMMING
Jimmy and the perfect catch that got away, “Melanie the Mermaid”, at Bon Island. place (Jimmy’s Drift Inn on Sai Yuan, Rawai) you may have notice that two large fish from my tropical aquarium are missing. I had mentioned to Bee, my bar manager, that the two giant gouramies were getting too big for the tank and I was going to “give them to Buddha” (drop them in the lake). But one my maintenance men asked if he could have them: he then proceeded to put them in a plastic bag with no water, when I asked. “What the h*** are you doing”, he replied: “taking them home to
eat.” T.I.T. This is Thailand. My sincere apologies go out to fellow fisheroos who missed on April’s Sunday Wahoo fishing trip. There was a serious breakdown in communications for which the Rawai Beach Fishing Club, Wahoo and I can only say sorry and we will get you out as soon as possible. Commiserations also to Jan Andersen of RBFC after his motorcycle accident, hope you get well soon and start pulling them in again. And f inally, our joint birthday party (Martin, Lau-
rence and Jimmy) on “Rosie’s Beach” on Bon Island had an unexpected visitor: “Melanie the Mermaid”, pictured above. No this wasn’t a mass hallucination brought on by copious amounts of alcohol, as the picture above will confirm. The sea gypsies who did a great job handling the catering and were acting as water taxies for the party of about 40 revellers were absolutely flipper-gasted. Tight lines, Jimmy fishinginphuket.com
ABOUT 500 COMPETITIVE swimmers from around Asia will meet at British International School in Phuket this weekend for the Flying Fish Swim Club Invitational Swim Meet. “The BIS community is really looking forward to some fantastic competition and a weekend of great racing” said Helen Sweeney, head coach of the Flying Fish swim team. Twenty-two swim teams from across Asia are competing at the event, being held at BIS on Saturday, May 4 and Sunday, May 5. The BIS team comprises 99 students, with other teams visiting from Malaysia, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Philippines and other parts of Thailand.
Zsuzsanna Jakabos, a three time Olympian from the Hungarian national swim team, is currently training at BIS and will be participating in the tournament as an exhibition swimmer in the ‘18 Years and Over Boys’ races. Spectators are welcome to attend the competitions, which begin at 8am on on Saturday (May 4) with a parade and opening ceremony, followed by the races starting at 8.30am. The BIS Flying Fish team has been preparing for their home tournament with recent competitive successes against a visiting Singapore swim team in March and at the Singapore Nationals later in the same month, while Flying Fish member and BIS student Andrew Heinz participated in the Thai National Youth Games in Maha Sarakam.
HASH HOUSE HARRIERS R u n 1 4 17: 4 p m , Saturday, May 4 Hares: Princess
Saturday, May 11, 2013 Time: 12pm-7pm
Venue: Dragon Park (Queen Sirikit 72 Years Chalearmprakiet Park) and Phuket Old Town All participants receive free T-shirt and souvenir from TAT Phuket Dinner and award giving ceremony after event
Directions: Manik Dam (not the Chalong Dam). Turn west at Heroines monument, drive approximately 4kms and turn left at the HHH sign toward the Manik Dam. The laager site will be the site used before, on the left of the dam face (the south side). More information: phuket-hhh.com
Some of the Phuket hashers on run 1416 last weekend, on an overcast Saturday in the hills near Cherng Talay.
Grand prize:
Winning Cup and 2 return flights from Phuket to Kuala Lumpur
Medal prize:
Over 90 Cities, One Perfect Gateway.
Entry fee: B199 per team (2 people).
SilkAir and Singapore Airlines Connecting you to Places.
Winning Cup and 3 days 2 nights stay at Mercure Krabi
To enter: Call 076 212 213 Email: tatphuket@tat.or.th TAT Phuket: 1 Soi Surin, Montri Road, Phuket 83000
(Temporary office: 1/F, Metropole Hotel Phuket)
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
PHUKET SPORT 29
Air Force soar over Islanders Yamaha League 1/Thai Division 1
FOOTBALL
Team
Kazira Hans editor@classactmedia.co.th
A
ir Force Avia FC climbed to the top of Yamaha League 1 after beating Phuket FC 2-1 at Thupathemi Stadium in Bangkok’s Don Muang district on Saturday, April 27. The defeat came just three days after the same teams clashed in a Thai Com FA Cup qualifying match, when a late goal by the Islanders saw them through to the next round. The significance of Saturday’s game was that neither team had lost any of their seven games this season: Air Force had three wins and four draws going into the match, and Phuket had four wins and three draws. Both Phuket and Air Force put up their best players for the league game, after resting their stars for the cup tie: Air Force fielded Rungroch Sawangsri and the African trio of Yao Hermann, David Bayiha and Julius Oiboh; while Phuket FC included Nene Bi, Sato, Thongchai and Dudu in their starting line-up. The home side took the game to the visitors from the
Phuket FC’s Eak-artit Somjit (right) tries to outpace the fast Air Force Avia defence. kick-off, their African trio wokring as a unit to advance on the Phuket goal, and Hermann testing Phuket’s keeper Kampon less than five minutes into the game. Oiboh was next with a shot from outside the penalty box, but Kampon had no problem dealing with the weak attempt. Air Force controlled the pace and possession for most of the first 30 minutes, but weren’t sharp enough to convert opportunities to goals. Phuket’s defence did well under the pressure, with extra help from Giorgi Tzimakuridze, who pulled in from his winger position to help
Assawin in defensive midfield. After the referee called two minutes of stoppage time, Air Force dropped their defence brief ly and Phuket finally came up with a shot on target, but the Air Force cleared the area easily. Phuket’s Thongchai Kuenkhunthod then broke down the left wing, pulling inside to fire in a goal before the Air Force keeper was able to dive for a save, giving Phuket a 1-0 half-time lead. Air Force came out in the second half with a stronger pressing game and tough tackles that earned several yellow cards. Determined to equalize,
the home side pushed hard and the African trio pushed closer to the Phuket goal. Hermann then skimmed past the Phuket defence before passing a ball to his teammate Sirodom Singhthippan, who curled a shot past Kampon into the back of the net. The equaliser lifted the Eagle’s spirits, and Phuket found themselves on the back foot. Close to the end of the game, a Phuket tackle on an Air Force player earned the home side a free kick just a few yards outside the penalty area. Oiboh then stepped up to curl the ball past the Phuket
D
L
F
1
PTT Rayong
MP W 8
4
4
0
9
3
16
2
BBCU
8
4
4
0
11
6
16
3
Air Force United
8
4
4
0
7
2
16
4
Singh Tarua
8
5
1
2
12
9
16
5
Phuket
8
4
3
1
10
6
15
6
Bangkok
8
3
3
2
10
10
12
7
Krabi
8
3
2
3
10
8
11
8
Siam Navy
8
3
2
3
8
6
11
9
Trat
8
3
2
3
13
13
11
10
Saraburi
8
2
4
2
8
6
10
11
Nakon Rachasima
8
2
4
2
8
9
10
12
Sri Racha
8
2
3
3
11
13
9
13
Nakhon Pathom United
8
2
3
3
4
6
9
14
Rayong United
8
2
2
4
10
10
8
15
Khon Kaen
8
1
3
4
6
11
6
16
Ayutthaya
8
1
3
4
3
9
6
17
Rayong
8
0
4
4
6
11
4
18
TTM
8
0
3
5
5
13
3
wall into the goal, although Kampon managed to get the tip of his glove to the ball, giving Air Force the lead with less than 15 minutes left in the game. Forced to attack, Phuket tried hard to turn the game around, but to no avail. When Nene Bi injured his right foot and the Coach Tuu was forced to pull him off the pitch, Phuket’s defence was severely weakened. But Air Force were unable to score another goal despite many close attempts. After five minutes of extra
GD Pts
time, the whistle blew and Phuket had suffered their first loss of the season. After the latest round of league matches, the Islanders now stand at fifth place on the table with 15 points, trailing PTT Rayong, BBCU, Air Force Avia and Singh Tarua, all on 16 points. Phuket’s next game will be on Saturday May 4 at Surakul Stadium, where they will take on 4th-ranked Singh Tarua. The Phuket News is the official media partner for Phuket FC.
Lonesome forward needs more team support ANALYSIS Kazira Hans editor@classactmedia.co.th
A typically tough tackle on Dudu moments after getting the ball during the match against Air Force Avia on Saturday.
The most active club in Phuket with monthly events. Retail outlet at Wana Park, Cherng Talay (Manik). To join the club or see our products visit andaman-wine-club.com
A DISAPPOINTING PERformance on Saturday handed Phuket FC their first loss in Yamaha League 1 this season after the past four wins and three draws. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that the fine tuning is not that fine. Or maybe it’s that the “Dudu as lone striker” idea wasn’t such a good idea. Saturday’s game at Air Force Avia’s Thupathemi stadium was frustrating for the squad to play in and uncomfortable for fans to watch. Phuket FC managed pre-
cisely three attempts on goal during the entire first half, and Air Force goalkeeper Samuel Cunningham got bored after half an hour in which no plays from Phuket came anywhere near the home side’s penalty area. Phuket’s midfield were unable to retain possession of the ball; they seemed to get only one touch before the ever-present Air Force players stole it right from their feet. Air Force’s pressing game worked so well that no one even had a chance to pass the ball to Dudu, and the Brazilian striker was forced to come deep for the ball and could never move forward. In order for your lone striker to strike, he has to
get the ball. And in order to get that ball, he has to have teammates who can pass it to him. But in this game Phuket FC failed at both. M ay b e it ’s t i m e fo r Phuket’s Coach Tuu to re-
think his strategy: Does he want to depend entirely on Dudu’s star skills, or will he try and play like Liverpool FC without Luis Suarez: with less dependence on a single star, and more like a team.
30 WORLD SPORT
PREMIER LEAGUE PREDICTIONS: WEEK 37
THIS YEAR’S GRAND PRIZE IS SPONSORED BY:
Tough love for Arsenal FOOTBALL
A
rsenal manager Arsene Wenger said Robin van Persie’s equaliser for Manchester United on his return to the Emirates Stadium left fans of his former club nursing feelings of “disappointed love.” Van Persie scored a 44thminute penalty that cancelled out Theo Walcott’s 2ndminute opener, securing a 1-1 draw. The Dutchman was roundly booed, but Wenger said it was only because he had brought so much joy during his eight-year stint for Arsenal: “They loved him, so today it was a bit of a disappointed love. Liverpool put the Luis Suarez affair behind them with a 6-0 defeat of Newcastle. Daniel Agger and Jordan Henderson gave the visitors a 2-0 half-time lead, Daniel Sturridge claimed a brace, and goals from Fabio Borini and Jordan Henderson consigned Newcastle to their worst home defeat since 1925. Chelsea’s Frank Lampard moved one goal short of his
Robin van Persie broke Gunners’ hearts at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal. Photo: AFP/Adrian Dennis team’s goal record as the Blues beat a Swansea 2-0 at Stamford Bridge. Lampard set up Oscar for a 43rd minute opener before converting a penalty in first half stoppage-time, his 201st goal for Chelsea. Aston Villa improved their chances of avoiding relegation with a 6-1 thrashing of Sunderland. Villa’s Ron Vlaar opened the score after 31 minutes, but Sunderland’s Danny Rose soon equalised. Andreas Weimann put Villa on top after 38 minutes, followed by a hat-trick from Christian Benteke and a goal from Gabriel Agbonlahor. Two relegation places were decided by a goalless draw between QPR and Reading ejected
both from the league, when a win for either would have kept alive a slender chance of staying up. That’s left Wigan in the danger zone, after their 2-2 draw with Tottenham: Gareth Bale opened the scoring in the 11th-minute but Emmerson Boyce equalised minutes later. A left-foot howitzer by Callum McManaman in the second half looked good for Wigan – until Boyce diverted a free kick by Spurs’ Tom Huddlestone’s into his own net in the last minutes. Stoke can start planning for another Premier League season after a 1-0 home win against Norwich, thanks to a goal from Charlie Adam early in the second half.
And Sergio Aguero and Yaya Toure scored as Manchester City won 2-1 at home to West Ham United. Aguero opened the scoring after 28 minutes before Toure settled the game seven minutes from time. Everton enjoyed a 1-0 win at home to Fulham, with Steven Pienaar scoring in the 16th minute. And West Bromwich won 3-0 at Southampton, with Marc-Antoine Fortune scoring in the sixth minute, Romelu Lukaku added a second with 23 minutes remaining, and Shane Long claiming the third. In The Phuket New tipping competition: congratulations to scottkip, who topped the April scores with 95 points. In the overall scores, suncat100 on 679 points looks set to finish the season on top, but challenger scottkip has trimmed the gap slightly. This month (May 2013) the competition is sponsored by Australia Bar & Grill in Kata, and the monthly winner will receive a B3,000 voucher to spend at the venue. The overall winner at the end of the season will win a brand new Honda Scoopy courtesy of AP Honda.
1000 Folded Cranes
BillioNail
Dorothy Macpherson
Lady Pie
Absolute Bangla Suites, Patong
Bliss Beach Club
Double Tree Resort by Hilton, Surin
Laguna Golf Club
Adam and Glodee Judd AHMS Hotels Aladdin Beach Club Amanpuri Villa Amari Hotels Anand Jagota Anantara Phuket Villas Andaman Cabriolet
Blue Elephant Blue World Safaris Breeze at Cape Yamu British International School Phuket Brotzeit Bier Bar and Restaurant Centra Ashlee Hotel Patong Chalong Bay Rum
Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket
Le Meridien – Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
EthniCity
Lim’s Restaurant and Bar
Fragola Creations
Live 89.5
FunStart
Lotus Agency Asia
Giuseppe ‘Pepe’ Viva
Luxury Collection Naka Island Phuket
Hilton Phuket Holiday Inn Resort Phuket
Michelle Clowes Movenpick Resort and Spa
THIS MONTH'S COMPETITION IS SUPPORTED BY:
TOM’S TIPS WEEK 38 Fulham v Reading Liverpool v Everton Man United v Chelsea Norwich v Aston Villa QPR v Arsenal Sunderland v Stoke Swansea v Man City Tottenham v Southampton West Brom v Wigan West Ham v Newcastle Wigan v Swansea
Team
MP
W
D
L
F
A
Pts
35
27
4
4
79
36
85
2
Manchester City
34
21
8
5
61
31
71
3
Chelsea
34
19
8
7
68
35
65
4
Arsenal
35
18
10
7
66
36
64
5
Tottenham Hotspur
34
18
8
8
60
43
62
6
Everton
35
15
14
6
52
38
59
7
Liverpool
35
14
12
9
67
42
54
8
West Bromwich Albion
34
14
6
14
46
44
48
9
Swansea City
34
10
12
12
43
44
42
10
West Ham United
35
11
9
15
41
49
42
11
Fulham
35
10
10
15
44
53
40
12
Stoke City
35
9
13
13
31
41
40
13
Southampton
35
9
12
14
47
57
39
14
Norwich City
35
8
14
13
33
54
38
15
Sunderland
35
9
10
16
39
51
37
16
Aston Villa
35
9
10
16
42
64
37
17
Newcastle United
35
10
7
18
43
66
37
18
Wigan Athletic
34
8
8
18
39
62
32
19
Queens Park Rangers
35
4
13
18
29
56
25
20
Reading
35
5
10
20
37
65
25
RESULTS Man City Everton Southampton Stoke Wigan
2 – 1 1 – 0 0 – 3 1 – 0 2 – 2
Pimalai Resort and Spa, Koh Lanta, Krabi PIPS (Phuket Island Property Service) Pluto Ice-cream Production by Kritidech Rembrandt Hotels and Towers, Bangkok
Island Bliss
NINE Lounge and Bar
Climax Restaurant
Jabu Days
Novosti Phuketa
Saigon Bellydance
Coral Seekers
Jay Leshark
Oasis Spa
Sala Phuket
Art and Culture Asia
Core Synthesis
Joe’s Downstairs
Offspray Leisure
Baan Rim Pa
Creative Concept AV Co. Ltd
John Gray
Oriental Events
Sarabell Nail Salon and Spa
JW Marriott
Outrigger
Kata Beach Resort
Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort
Banyan Tree Phuket BB&B Beauty Today
Da Maurizio Delish (Liz and Greg) Design Den Dewa Resort and Spa
Katalina Collection Kidz Sole Kira Body Art
Splash Sri Panwa Sue McGoldrick Sunanda Spa Tatonkas Tawan Cruises Terry Davis
The Artist – Dance Choreography
Rockfish
Clare Plunkett
Bangkok Burger Co
0 – 6 0 – 0 2 – 0 1 – 1 6 – 1
RnR Décor
Royal Phuket Marina Health Club
Baan Rim Pa Group
Newcastle Reading Chelsea Arsenal Aston Villa
The 9th Floor Restaurant and Bar
Navrang Mahal
Angsana Spa Laguna Phuket
West Ham Fulham West Brom Norwich Tottenham
Renaissance Phuket Resort and Spa
Indigo Pearl
Angsana
1. suncat100 679 2. scottkip 640 3. diggersd 636 4. toptipster 621 5. gafferworld 620 6. alanphuket 617 7. mickyleeds 616 8. fazza 613 9. Blackrosebar 610 10. zestrealestate 601
Manchester United
Choice Foods
Andara, Phuket
Win Win Win Win Lose Win Lose Win Win Win Draw
1
Chef Alex
My Gate 2 Success
OVERALL STANDINGS
English Premier League
Imperial Adamas Beach Resort
Andaman Wine Club
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
ROM-YEN Guest House
The Pavilions Phuket The Phuket News The Regent Phuket Cape Panwa The Surin The Vijitt Resort Phuket Tracey Burr
Sarah Pettigrew
Trisara
Savita Sriram
World Lennium
Sea Bees Diving
Xana
Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas
Serenity Resort and Residence Phuket
Outrigger Phi Phi Islands
Sofitel Plaza Hanoi
Liverpool QPR Swansea Man United Sunderland
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Henry Speight scored two of the Brumbies’ six tries.
Brumbies tame Force to extend Super 15 lead RUGBY UNION
AU S T R A L I A’ S AC T Brumbies continued to set the pace in the Super 15 with a bonus-point victory as champions Waikato Chiefs won their rematch of last year’s final with the Coastal Sharks. The Brumbies kicked away to a five-point break on the overall standings with a crushing six-try 41-7 win over Western Force at home on Saturday, retrieving the Australian conference lead from the Queensland Reds. T he match also the Brumbies’ Fijian winger Henry Speight scored a double to take over as the tournament’s leading tryscorer, with seven touchdowns.. The Reds temporarily grabbed the conference lead after their titanic 12-11 victory over the Auckland Blues the previous night in Brisbane. The Chiefs rallied from
back-to-back defeats to win a re-run of last year’s Super Rugby final with a 37-29 victory over South Africa’s Sharks in Hamilton to hold down second place overall. The Northern Bulls cling on to the South African conference lead and are third overall following their 3019 win over the New South Wales Waratahs in Pretoria. The three-time Super Rugby champions are one point clear of the Central Cheetahs in their conference after the Cheetahs downed fellow South Africans Southern Kings 26-12 in Bloemfontein. The Wellington Hurricanes dropped out of the top-six playoff frame after losing 18-16 to South Africa’s Western Stormers in Palmerston North, while seven-time champions Canterbury Crusaders fought off Australia’s Melbourne Rebels to win 30-26 in Christchurch on Sunday. AFP
Live Sports TV Schedule
CHANNEL GUIDE
1XX- True Vision, 8XX - Astra; 8 - Setanta
*Times may be subject to change
CHANNEL START
END
SPORT
EVENT
14:30 16:35
16:30 18:30
Rugby Union
Super 15
Super 15 Team
back with tries by Anthony Watmough and Daly CherryEvans but Souths held on. Sydney Roosters pair James Maloney and Mitchell Pearce tightened their grip on the NSW State of Origin halves positions following a mauling of St George Illawarra. The Roosters ended a sixyear wait for the Anzac Cup, thrashing the Dragons 34-10 in front of 40,752 at Allianz Stadium. Maloney and Pearce ripped
NRL MP W
D
L
F
A Pts
D
L
ACT Brumbies
10
7
2
1
281 163 40
1
Team Melbourne Storm
MP W 7
7
0
0
187 104 14
F
A Pts
2
Chiefs
9
6
0
3
277 198 35
2
Rabbitohs
7
6
0
1
157 117
12
Blues v Stormers
3
Bulls
9
6
0
3
236 190 32
3
Sydney Roosters
7
5
0
2
178
76
10
Queensland Reds
10
7
1
2
203 189 37
4
Sea Eagles
7
5
0
2
151
74
10
Essex v Hampshire
5
Blues
8
4
0
4
200 152 32
5
Newcastle Knights
7
5
0
2
158 91
10
Collingwood v St Kilda
6
Cheetahs
10
7
0
3
225 213
31
6
Brisbane Broncos
7
4
0
3
126 100
8
7
Crusaders
9
5
0
4
243 187 30
7
Gold Coast Titans
7
4
0
3
136 120
8
8
Sharks
9
5
0
4
207 164 28
8
Cowboys
7
3
0
4
128 122
6
9
Hurricanes
9
5
0
4
215 220 28
9
Dragons
7
3
0
4
100 156
6
10
Stormers
8
4
0
4
172 169 28
10
Canberra Raiders
7
3
0
4
108 181
6
11
NSW Waratahs
9
4
0
5
206 250 25
11
Penrith Panthers
7
2
0
5
142 160
4
12
Melbourne Rebels
9
2
0
7
188 288 20
12
Sharks
7
2
0
5
96 115
4
13
Western Force
10
2
0
8
169 249 16
13
Bulldogs
7
2
0
5
92 145
4
14
Southern Kings
9
2
1
6
178 282 15
14
Wests Tigers
7
2
0
5
103 163
4
15
Highlanders
8
0
0
8
150 236 10
15
Parramatta Eels
7
2
0
5
121 189
4
16
Warriors
7
1
0
6
104 174
2
Cricket
521
16:30
19:30
Aussie Rules
AFL
Saturday, May 4 14:30
16:30
Rugby Union
Super 15
Sharks v Bulls
16:30
18:30
Rugby Union
Super 15
Western Force v Reds
22:00
00:00
Rugby Union
Super 15
Kings v Waratahs
00:05
02:00
Rugby Union
Super 15
Bulls v Hurricanes
11:00
14:00
Aussie Rules
AFL
North Melbourne v Port Adelaide
16:30
19:30
Aussie Rules
AFL
Richmond v Geelong
21:00
23:00
Soccer
EPL
Swansea v Man City
21:00
23:00
Soccer
EPL
West Bromwich v Wigan
21:00
23:00
Soccer
EPL
Norwich v Aston Villa
106
21:00
23:00
Soccer
EPL
Fulham v Reading
107
21:00
23:00
Soccer
EPL
West Ham v Newcastle
151
21:00
23:00
Soccer
EPL
Tottenham v Southampton
817, 103
23:30
01:30
Soccer
EPL
QPR v Arsenal
01:00
Cricket
Yorkshire Bank 40
Leicestershire v Gloucestershire
19:45
other tries. The South Sydney Rabbitohs won a spiteful game with fellow finals contenders Manly Sea Eagles 20-12 at Brookvale Oval on Friday. In a match marred by two Richie Fa’aoso spear tackles on Souths superstar Greg Inglis, a Brett Stewart elbow and an all-in brawl, Souths led 2-0 at half-time and streaked away to a 20-0 lead through tries to Inglis, John Sutton and Beau Champion. Manly fought their way
Rebels v Chiefs
02:00
29
L
ast season’s NRL grand finalists Canterbury Bulldogs ended a fourgame losing run with a 24-8 victory over Cronulla Sharks 24-8 in Australia’s National Rugby League on Sunday. The Bulldogs moved off the bottom of the competition standings with two tries each for Mitch Brown and Sam Perrett to leave the Sharks without a win in their last four games. Melbourne Storm remain unbeaten after seven rounds and lead the competition by two points from South Sydney after holding off the New Zealand Warriors 28-18 at home. Their encounter provided some heart-stopping moments with the NRL champions only taking the lead eight minutes from full-time when centre Will Chambers crossed for his second try of the night. New Zealand Test scrumhalf Shaun Johnson almost orchestrated the upset of the season with an intercept try as well as setting up two
Super 15
22:30
812, 101
the game open with a threetry blitz early in the first-half, leading to a 22-4 half-time advantage to the home side. For the Wests Tigers, a disappointing night was further compounded by a catalogue of injuries in their 20-10 loss to Brisbane at Campbelltown. Tim Moltzen suffered a season-ending knee injury, while centre Blake Ayshford was taken from the field with a suspected broken leg as the Tigers were forced to play out the game with just 12 players having already used all their interchanges. Gold Coast Titans also sustained some serious injuries in their 30-6 loss to Wayne Bennett’s Newcastle Knights at Skilled Park on Sunday. The Titans lost lock Ashley Harrison (ankle), hooker Matt Srama (hand) and utility Luke O’Dwyer (broken jaw) in the first 10 minutes of the game. In the final match of the round on Monday, Penrith Panthers hosted the Parramatta Eels, an encounter that inf licted a crushing 44-12 defeat on the visitors. AFP
Rugby Union
29
521
RUGBY LEAGUE
4
Yorkshire Bank 40
816, 117
Bulldogs end losing run against Sharks
1
TEAMS / INFO
Friday, May 3 816, 117
WORLD SPORT 31
Sunday, May 5 816, 117
13:00
15:00
Rugby Union
Super 15
Brumbies v Crusaders
812, 101
19:30
21:30
Soccer
EPL
Liverpool v Everton
817, 101
22:00
23:00
Soccer
EPL
Man United v Chelsea Durham v Essex Sydney Swans v Brisbane Lions
29
19:45
01:00
Cricket
Yorkshire Bank 40
521
10:00
13:00
Aussie Rules
AFL
Conference leader
Wild card team
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Sport BANGKOK F1 ROUTE GETS GREEN LIGHT Air Force Avia trips Islanders
First defeat of the season for Phuket FC > 29
editor2@classactmedia.co.th
hailand sports officials have revealed the route of a proposed Formula One night race in Bangkok in 2015. The route starts and finishes beside the Chao Phraya River at the Royal Thai Naval Dockyard (Rat Woradit Pier), and runs for 5.995 kilometres along Maha That Road, Na Phra Lan Road, Na Phra That Road, Chakrabongse Road, Phra Sumen Road, Ratchadamnoen Avenue, Maha Chai Road and Thai Wang Road. The circuit will give spectators and TV viewers the chance to see several
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tourist spots along the route, including the Grand Palace, the Victory Monument, and the Temple of Dawn. Kanokphand Chulakasem, governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand, said the committee on the circuit for the country’s inaugural Grand Prix had approved the route suggested by foreign experts at a meeting this week. He said makeshift stands could be built in several areas along the circuit and would be able to accommodate about 150,000 spectators. “As the starting and finishing point
would be on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, we may be able to build the main stands in the river. It would also be convenient for transportation of equipment,” he said. “Only a small group of residents would be affected by the proposed route.” Suwat Sitthilor, permanent secretary for tourism and sports, said the route and other plans for the night race will be submitted to the cabinet for approval within three months. Bangkok Post
R e d B u l l ’s M a r k We b b e r during the 2010 Formula One demonstration race in Bangkok. Photo: AFP/Pornchai Kittiwongsakul
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Raksapong Khumkhuanjum, GM of Land and Houses Muang Mai FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013
Kristen Rossi on her book ‘Maid in Thailand’
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BRUNCH IS BACK
8 DINING
FRIDAY, MAY3,3,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY
Pearl of the orient
Back by popular demand, Indigo Pearl’s Classic 4 Sunday Brunch shines again It’s an incredible space that seems to be the very definition of ‘industrial chic’, with striking steel floors and columns, steel furniture, French 1940s factory lamps, leather ‘cone of silence’ love seats, and a seven meter high ceiling
Indigo Pearl re-introduce their Sunday brunch > 9
Clockwise from top: the giant tuna at the seafood station; the delectable sushi display; just some of the delicious desserts on offer. Photos: Kiri Heald
Photo: Kiri Heald
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
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he title of Phuket’s best brunch is a much fought over title on the island, but one that regularly and rightly makes the top of many people’s lists is the Classic 4 Sunday Brunch at the Indigo Pearl. The stylish Indigo Pearl resort sits close to the quiet Nai Yang Beach in the far northwest of Phuket. Just a five minute drive to the international airport, it’s a popular place to stay for the jet set. Although you’d never guess it, the resort is located on what used to be a tin mine (the owners are third generation tin miners, and Phuket used to be covered by them until as recently as the 1980s) – hence the mining theme that runs through the resort. It’s the remarkable vision of American hotel designer extraordinaire Bill Bensley, who worked in collaboration with Phuket-based artist John Underwood. “We worked with John to develop and produce many of the unique characteristics of Indigo Pearl,” said Bensley. “The top hung garage door like dividers in the rooms, the steel columns and floors, and the extensive collection of sculpture throughout [the resort]
is the handiwork of Underwood. “Our first project started from a box of tissues made of woven pandan leaves that I keep on desk in my studio. I remember John telling me that he could do anything with metal, and I pointed to the tissue box and asked if he could weave metal like that,” Bensley said. “We bounce ideas off of each other all the time, and often build on each others thoughts, with the main idea being that there is no bad idea.” No bad idea indeed. One of the most striking areas in the property is Rivet, the evening grill room that also hosts the daytime Classic 4 Sunday Brunch. It’s an incredible space that seems to be the very definition of ‘industrial chic’, with striking steel floors and columns, steel furniture, French 1940s factory lamps, leather ‘cone of silence’ love seats, and a seven meter high ‘architectural ceiling’. For anyone entering the room for the first time, it has a wow factor that means you’re as busy looking at the décor as deciding what to drink. It is also the perfect setting for a brunch that manages to be both casual and classy – you don’t have to wear a suit, but an element of sophistication is expected of guests. As for the spread itself, there are a variety of stations to choose from, including Indian, grill, Japanese, and seafood – which serves amazing mussels, oysters, and lobster. Make sure you leave enough room for dessert, as
there’s an entire section devoted to it – including ice cream, cake, fruit and petit four. So is it Phuket’s best? It’s certainly up there. Make a reservation for next Sunday and you be the judge. Held every Sunday from midday to 3pm, the Classic 4 Sunday Brunch at the Indigo Pearl costs B2,150++ per adult with free flow beverages, or B1,950++ per adult with soft drinks and juices only. It’s 50 per cent off for children from 5-12 years, while children under 5 years are complimentary. For reservations, call 076 327 006, email restaurant-team@indigo-pearl.com or visit indigo-pearl.com
k Meinds ù
Weekly SET MENU, 2 courses with soft drink @ 375 Baht
*AUTHENTIC ITALIAN, GREAT ATMOSPHERE*