08-03-2013 by The Phuket News

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Nat ’n’ Nat get tough with fake goods

100 72 0 32 Belgian Olivier Lambert likes to shake things up

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Competition among tourists for beach chair and umbrella sets on Karon and Kata Beaches is now fierce after one third of chairs were removed FULL STORY ON PAGE 2

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FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

Pointing fingers

DNP announces nine companies ‘have been charged’ over bad land deeds and encroaching on Sirinart Park > 4

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Tourists grumpy at lounger shortage Naraporn Tuarob reporter1@thephuketnews.com

ompetition among tourists for beach-chairand-umbrella sets on Karon and Kata Beaches has become fierce since one third of the chairs were removed last Friday (March 1). Where in February there were three rows of chairs, with effect from Friday there were just two. Roy and Ranne, tourists from Norway, grumbled, “It was better before when it was three rows, which meant there were enough seats and we didn’t have to fight to get the chair that we paid for. “Now we need to come down early in the morning to reserve a seat. The weather is too hot, it is impossible for us to sit on the sand.” Sunan Boonrat, Chairman of the local Beach Chair and Umbrella Club in Kata/Karon, explained to The Phuket News that the club’s own regulations limit members to two rows of chairs. But on December 1, with record numbers of tourists arriving, the club had asked for and had received the local council’s agreement to increase that to three rows. However, the agreement was strictly temporary, and expired on the last day of February. On March 1, therefore, beach chair operators cut back again to two rows. This sparked plenty of complaints from tourists, with some saying that they couldn’t

You missed a bit – Deputy Commerce Minister Nattawut Saikua directs the backhoe at the incinerator in town.

Nattawut and Natalie stamp on fake goods

Chair wars: Packed ranks of beach chairs on Karon Beach on Wednesday afternoon. find vacant chairs to lounge on and others saying they had reserved chairs only to come back and find them occupied by other people. “There were lots of cases this morning,” said Jarun Kakkor, a beach chair owner. “Many tourists left their towels on chairs in order to reserve them, but when they went up to buy drinks or to take things

back to their hotel rooms they came back down to the beach to find their chair taken by other tourists.” Mr Sunan said the club’s two-row regulation had been set in 1986 when there were far fewer tourists. In the past two years in particular great numbers of tourists had been arriving in Phuket and looking for beach chairs.

“This year, even in March, there are still lots of tourists so if we provide only two lines of the chairs, it’s definitely not enough for the tourists. “I’ve noticed that on beaches in other parts of the island there are three rows of chairs.” (The Phuket News counted four rows in Patong.) “We should all have the same regulations,” Mr Sunan added.

IN AN EFFORT TO RAISE the profile of Thailand’s campaign against counterfeit goods, Deputy Commerce Minister Nattawut Saikua led a crew of officials in the destruction of 94,120 fake fashion items, watches, DVDs and shoes on February 28 at the incinerator in Phuket Town. Adding additional glamour was former Miss Universe and darling of the Thai press, Natalie Glebova. The confiscated fakes – with a supposed street value of B216 million – were ripped, slashed with box cutters or smashed with giant hammers, and then flattened using a backhoe, with the deputy minister riding shotgun. The event, organised by the Department of Intellectual Property and provincial officials, was also attended by representatives of the European Union. Mr Nattawut said, “This ceremony is to reassure intellectual property owners that all the confiscated counterfeit products which have been seized will not re-enter to

the market or be exported, in accordance with the TRIPs Agreement.” The World Trade Organisation’s Agreement on TradeRelated Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights – known as TRIPs was signed by Thailand in 1995. Mr Nattawut also gave assurances that the process of preventing piracy, including confiscation of copies of patented and trademarked products, is proceeding strictly in order to reclaim the reputation of the country and to convince both Thai and foreigner business people to invest in Thailand. The government is waiting to hear whether the US will upgrade Thailand from its Priority Watch List (the lowest rank) to the ordinary Watch List for intellectual property rights infringement. Mr Nattawut said at the event that Thailand had already been upgraded, but a spokesperson at the US Embassy said this was not yet the case. A meeting of the US International Trade Commission is due to discuss the list later this month.

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200 protest at plan for new Provincial Hall Nattha Thepbamrung reporter2@thephuketnews.com

The two vehicles after the smash. Photo PhuketAndamanNews

Six foreigners hurt in minivan crash SIX FOREIGNERS AND a tour guide were injured in Phang Nga when a pickup truck crashed into a tourist minivan on the evening of February 26. Of the seven people taken to Tai Muang hospital, Belgian tourist Backef Micolas, 69, was the most seriously injured, and was taken to the intensive

care unit. Tour guide Preecha na Ranong was also injured. The driver of the pickup and the driver of the tour bus were not hurt in the crash. Police said before the crash happened it was raining heavily. The pickup driver was speeding and lost control on a corner, crashing into the tour van.

group of around 200 local people gathered late Monday morning (March 4) at the Phuket Provincial Hall to protest about plans to build a new provincial hall. They complained that the plan would mean they would no longer have access to the Sanam Chai football field, and this would affect local life. The group, led by Suratin Liam-Udom, a former Mayor of Rassada, and Rangsan Kongthong, a former member of the Phuket Provincial Council, went to the provincial hall with a placards bearing the photo of the first Governor of Phuket Province, Phra Ong Jao Atit Thippaya’apa, appointed in 1933. They met Vice-Governor Jamroen Thippayapongdara, who is head of the committee overseeing the project. They told him they believed here was no need for a new Provincial Hall, and the project might affect local people. The football field is used for many events, they pointed out, and they feared the public might

The protestors invoked the memory of the first Governor of Phuket Province, Phra Ong Jao Atit Thippaya’apa, appointed in 1933, pictured on the placard. be barred from using it. The original plan for the new provincial hall envisaged turning the Sanam Chai field into gardens, with a car park underneath it. But today V/Gov Jamroen said the protestors were misinformed. “In fact, we will enhance and improve the field. We will

grow new grass, fix the fence, repaint it, and build a large parking lot beneath,” he said. “Local people will lose nothing. It will have no negative effect on them. “This project has been on hold since 1996. But now we have the budget and the chance to improve the Provincial Hall

– which is the centre of the administration – so we should go ahead with it.” The project was announced last October, with a budget of B450 million. The new hall will stand where the tennis courts are, at the intersection of Damrong Rd and Surin Rd.

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Nine land owners ‘charged with encroachment on park’ Nattha Thepbamrung reporter2@thephuketnews.com

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he current owners of nine parcels of land along the northwest coast of Phuket have been charged by police with encroachment into Sirinart Marine National Park, a meeting at the park’s headquarters at Nai Yang Beach heard on February 28. The nine are: Phuket Peninsula Co, charged with encroachment after the underlying two NorSor 3 Kor papers were found to have been issued illegally. La Colline Co, owners of La Colline housing development, prosecuted for encroachment after it was found that the company’s project was being built on an illegally issued NorSor 3 Kor paper. Also charged by Cherng Talay Police with encroaching on a further nine rai of the park. Three Dolphins Co . Seven Chanote deeds and one NorSor 3 Kor found to have been issued illegally. This case has also been forwarded to the National Anti-Corruption Commission. Suree Samrit Co and Malaiwana Beach Club Co. Four Chanote papers found to be illegally based on the same SorKor 1 paper. Charged with encroachment. Landstate Co, charged with encroachment after four Chanote papers covering a total of 99 rai were found to have been issued illegally. Member Co, charged with encroachment after a NorSor 3 Kor paper covering

The moving finger writes; and, having writ, moves on: Manopat Huamuangkaew, Damrong “the Demolisher” Pidech’s successor as Director of the DNP, on Nai Yang Beach. two rai, bought from Phuket Peninsula Co, was found to have been issued illegally. Andaman White Beach Co, charged with encroachment after 10 Chanote papers covering 96 rai were found to have been issued illegally. Phuket Central and City Development Co, prosecuted for encroaching on 2 rai of Sirinart Park with no papers at all. Phuket Arcadia Co, prosecuted after a NorSor 3 Kor paper was found to have been issued illegally and was revoked. One Chanote paper was also found to have been issued illegally. It may be hard for the DNP and the police to win

the prosecutions against the nine companies. In most if not all cases, the dirty work was not done by the companies – it was done by people a long time ago, sometimes decades, in collusion with corrupt officials. The current owners, in most cases, bought land that came with what they firmly believed were genuine, valid land certificates, issued by the Land Office. Certainly, any company that is successfully prosecuted will launch an appeal to a higher court. Flurries of lawsuits by current owners can also be expected, not only against previous owners (for knowingly selling them “bad” land) but

also against the Land Office, various high-ranking provincial officials who signed off on the land papers, and other departments including the Natural Resources & Environment Department and even the DNP itself. Some owners contacted by The Phuket News said that this was the first they had heard of the charges, so it is unclear just how far the cases have gone. Cheewapap Cheewatham told The Phuket News today that prosecutions will also be brought against Land Office officials and other government officials involved in issuing the illegal land papers. These people are currently under investigation, he said. The meeting was chaired by Manopat Huamuangkaew, Damrong “the Demolisher” Pidech’s successor as Director of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP). In the meeting, Mr Manopat listened as Mr Cheewapap and Sunthorn Watcharadilokkul, adviser to the DNP, laid out progress and information about the 11 land plots – totalling about 600 rai – that were targeted during Mr Damrong’s time. The next stage in the investigation will concentrate on seven land plots totalling around 400 rai at the Istana and Malaiwana property developments. After this, another 1,000 rai, about which details are still vague, will be investigated. “In this third stage, we expect to investigate around 1,000 rai, in cooperation with

the DSI [Department of Special Investigation],” said Mr Cheewapap. “This involves land located above Nai Thorn beach, above Layan Beach and near the Imperial Adamas Resort [at Nai Yang Beach]. “If the DSI works with us, I think we will find all the reportedly encroached lands in the Sirinart Park, which we think totals about 3,000 rai,” he added. “The DSI has special powers to demand immediate access to important documents such as SorKor 1 from the Land Office. Mr Manopat noted that cooperation with the DSI would make investigation easier; when the DNP asks the Land Office for papers, the requests are always rejected, on the grounds that releasing land papers to the DNP would affect to the rights and business interests of the land papers’ owners. After the meeting, the team went to inspect an 82-rai parcel of beachfront land at Nai Yang which is situated inside the Khao Ruag-Khao Muang forest reserve. This 82-rai parcel will be part of the the third stage of the land probe. The DNP has so far been unable to identify the owner by name. “We are up against powerful people, politicians and officials who support land cheating,” Mr Manopat said. “The money involved in all this cheating is not many millions – it’s many billions of baht. “But I am not afraid. We have to protect the forest for future generations,” he said.

DNP boss promotes conservation in Phuket ARRIVING IN PHUKET ON February 28 in connection with the Sirinart National Park encroachment investigation, the new DirectorGeneral of the Department of National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) took the opportunity to promote Thailand’s view on the international Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Thailand is to chair a major meeting of all the signa-

tories to CITES from Sunday (March 3) to March 14 at the Queen Sirikit Centre in Bangkok. Arriving at Phuket International Airport yesterday the new DG, Manopat Huamuangkaew, and officers from the DNP’s CITES office handed out leaflets to passengers and put up posters, urging people not to buy goods made from parts of endangered or threatened species.

Mr Manopat said that Thailand will present three proposals to the meeting: To add Rosewood trees to CITES Appendix II, which includes species that are not actually threatened but could be if trade is not strictly regulated. This, he said, would reduce illegal exports of rosewood; To transfer freshwater crocodiles and saltwater crocodiles from Appendix I – species that are threatened with

extinction – to Appendix II. This would ease restrictions on Thai exports of crocodile leather and other products from crocodile farms; To promote aromatic Agarwood for growing in plantations. He said that holding the CITES meeting in Thailand would bring benefits for Thais, with government and private organizations, educational institutions and ordinary people all having a chance

to learn more about CITES. This would boost cooperation from Thai people in curbing trade in endangered species. Conversely, the meeting will help other countries to understand that Thailand is not a center of illegal wildlife and plant trading. Finally, Mr Manopat noted, about 3,000 people will attend the two weeks of meetings, which will contribute to Thailand’s tourism income.

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Trojan malware targets KBank online banking K ASIKORNBANK (KBANK) has issued a warning to users of smart phones, particularly those running the Android system, that a “Trojan/spyware” program is currently doing the rounds, posing as a Kasikornbank app. Anyone downloading the app risks allowing allow cyberthieves access to their bank accounts, an announcement by the bank said. In a message to users of its online banking system, the bank warned, “The application program can steal your OTP [one-time password] SMSs that are sent from the K-Cyber Banking System to your mobile phone, and make fraudulent transactions. “KBank will never ask you to download any application program to your mobile phone for use with K-Cyber Banking Service. Please also beware of a fraudulent SMS

message that provides a link (URL) for downloading such an application to your mobile phone. “While using K-Cyber Banking System, if you [encounter] any irregularities such as a message saying that you need to download an application program to your mobile phone, it is possible that your computer may have been infected by a Trojan/ spyware program. “You must stop using the system and immediately call Kbank to ask our staff to suspend your K-Cyber Banking Account. You may resume using K-Cyber Banking only after you are certain that the Trojan/spyware program has been eliminated from your computer.” For further information call Kbank at 02888 8800 #3, or email info@kasikornbank.com

Evening of terror for karaoke girl A KARAOKE BAR EM ployee has alleged that she was raped on Monday night (March 4) by a “black plate” taxi driver, who also beat her up, tied her up, stole her wallet and other belongings, and forced her to reveal her ATM pin number. The victim and her family went to report the incident at Thung Thong police station the following day. She recalled the number of her attacker’s car and he was arrested on Tuesday (March 5). Police said that, under questioning, the driver, Suksan Monamrong, from Krabi, admitted that he went to a karaoke bar in Rassada, on the edge of Phuket Town, and took the victim to a nearby hotel. There he raped her and beat her up.

He dragged her back into the car and took her to another hotel in Thung Tong. On the way the victim tried to strangle him, so he bit her finger. By the time they arrived at the second hotel, he said, he was very angry with her, so he beat her up again and then tied her hands and feet with electrical cable. He grabbed her wallet with B4,000 cash, two cell phones, two necklaces and her glasses, and then threatened her until she revealed the pin number for her ATM card. When Suksan left the room, she screamed for help and was rescued by a member of the hotel’s staff. Suksan is being held without bail while police inquiries continue.

PHUKET NEWS

Sea Gypsies lose first round of property fight Nattha Thepbamrung reporter2@thephuketnews.com

even Sea Gypsies of Rawai have lost the first round in what promises to be a long legal battle to continue living where they say they have lived for generations. A civil court in Phuket ruled on February 28 that a plot of land occupied by seven Sea Gypsy homes belongs to Piyawat Sa Ngiamkul, whose family owns the Ban Raya Travel & Tour Co. Ban Raya Travel and Tour owns the Ban Raya Resort on Racha Yai Island and also runs day trips to the island. The court ruled that Mr Piyawat’s chanote title for land under the seven houses is legitimate. Lawyers for the Sea Gypsies had argued that the Sea Gypsies had lived on the land for a long time, going back to before any kind of land paper was issued. Pasit Thavornlamlert, one of the villagers’ lawyers, said that the owners of the seven houses – Manee Jalutangsee, Puth Saithong, Nang Miden, Chaba Bangjak, Boonjai Ponrob, Boonchub Ponrob and Sulee Borinayok – will appeal against the court’s decision. “He [Mr Piyawat] went immediately to the village after the court ruling,” said Sanit Saechua, the villager’s representative said. “He is planning to erect a building on the land in front of the village, just next to the beach.”

The problems faced by the Sea Gypsies have attracted high-level attention. In November last year Governor Maitree Intusut reacted with astonishment to hear some of the tales of their troubles. The lawyer, Mr Pasit, said that Mr Piyawat’s chanote covers two rai of land, and that another 33 Sea Gypsy homes sit on the same land. However, Mr Piyawat told The Phuket News he has no plans to sue the occupants of the other 33 homes, and is prepared to sign a rental contract with them. “I have to make a contract with the villagers because I have been paying for their water and electricity for a long time. Also, if I let them stay for a long time without a rental contract, they may lay claim to the land in the future.”

(Villagers denied to The Phuket News that Mr Piyawat had been paying for power and water – they said they paid the bills themselves.) He said he plans to build a storehouse in front of the beach to keep equipment to be transferred between Rawai and Ban Raya Resort. He added that if he finally wins the legal battle to confirm his rights, the seven villagers will be ejected from their homes, which will then be available for rent, like the other 33. “I cannot let those people continue living here because

they are trying to claim the land. I have to assert my rights,” he said. The villagers’ lawyer, Mr Pasit, said the seven villagers do not know where they will live if they lose the legal battle. “They have no plan B,” he said. The court action began when Mr Piyawat urged them to sign a rental contract, but they refused. “If they had signed, it would have meant that they accepted they were living on land owned by him, so they chose to fight instead of helping him confirm his rights to the land,” Mr Pasit said.

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A Russian tourist named by police as Kirill Kulaein, 43, was taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital about 10am on Wednesday morning (March 6) after being run over by an OrBorJor po tong pink bus in the middle of Phuket Town. He suffered a broken right leg, along with serious head, body and arm injuries. Witnesses said that the po tong was being driven fast along Phuket Rd. As the tourist parked his rented bike opposite the Lan Nawamintra auditorium, the truck swiped him, he was pulled underneath it, and then dragged for several metres. Photo Zenith.

Work begins on stabilising bypass Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter4@thephuketnews.com

HIGH WAYS DEPA RTMENT workers are currently clearing vegetation from a steep bank between the south- and north-bound lanes of the bypass road as part of a project to stop the bank collapsing in heavy rain. In the heavy rain of November 2011, sections of the bank, which supports the north-bound lane near the Hino truck dealer, slid, and traffic was temporarily diverted to the slow lane amid fears that part of the

road would collapse. Chief Engineer Sathaporn Sornchana told The Phuket News this week, “We will create a channel at the base of the slope to carry rainwater away and then we will surface the slope with sprayed concrete. “The project, which will extend about one kilometre along the road, will take about three months to complete. There will be no effect on traffic. “I want the public to know that we are on top of the problems and are fixing them,” Mr Sathaporn added.

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

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Fire wrecks fishing boat AN INDONESIA FISHING boat caught fire at the fishing boat pier in Rassada Port late on Saturday afternoon. Pol Maj Sakol Krainara, shift officer at Muang Police Station when then call came in, said five fire engines were sent to fight the blaze. They found smoke pouring out of the 22-metre Citra Maju 86, moored to the pier. Firemen poured water into the vessel, deciding not to board it because of the constant sound of explosions on board. After about 30 minutes the smoke began to abate and the fire was extinguished. The vessel’s engineer said he had started the engine as part of regular checks, and it had burst into flames. No one was hurt in the blaze, which caused an estimated B1 million in damage to the boat.

Firemen pour water into the Citra Maju. Photo Golf Thairat.

Road rage bus driver caught Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter4@thephuketnews.com

us driver Sanchai Putpong has denied pointing a gun at a Phuket woman driver on February 23, but admitted carrying the gun and damaging her car window with it. Police arrested Sanchai, 41, last Friday night (March 1) when they found him driving a tourist minivan near the Thai Village restaurant in Phuket Town, around 6pm. Police said Sanchai denied pointing his gun at the woman’s head and shouting “I’m going to k ill you”. However, he admitted hitting the window with the gun, which caused a 15cm mark on the glass. He told police he left the

gun – which he claimed was a replica, not a real weapon – in the toilet of a snake farm on Soi Ta-ied in Chalong. He is currently being held in prison, pending his court case for the gun incident. He faces multiple charges including attempted murder, criminal damage (for leaving a mark on the woman’s car window), car r ying a gun in a public place, and issuing threats. Police have requested the court to deny bail for him. Sanchai, who was driving an An Xin tour bus at the time of the incident, is accused of following the woman driver as she drove beh i nd Cent ral Fest ival Phuket on February 23. He is alleged to have driven closely behind, attempting to

pass while honking his horn. When the woman reached the main Central Festival intersection, Sanchai is alleged to have jumped out of his bus and come to her window, pointing the pistol at her head and shouting “I’m going to kill you”. The woman’s young son was able to note down the licence plate and the police found the vehicle outside Phuket Fantasea. However the driver had abandoned the bus and could not immediately be tracked down by police. Police noted that, during questioning, Sanchai had admitted being released from Phuket Provincial Prison in 2010, after serving two years on a theft charge.

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City offers summer fun for children PHUKET CITY MUNICIPALity has invited all children aged six to 10 to join a wide variety of activities – some serious and some just plain fun – which will run from March 25 to April 25, at very little cost. Registration for the courses will be from Monday (March 11) to next Friday (March 15), from 5pm to 8pm at the Youth Centre in Saphan Hin. There is a limit on the number of children who can be enrolled in any activity, so places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. The courses are: Six years upward: Swimming (B400), tennis (B50), basic Chinese language (B250). Six to nine years old: Use of computers (B200). Eight to 10 years old (all B50): Indoor soccer, badminton, table tennis, youth dance, Thai dance, karate, modern Muay Thai, traditional Chaiyastyle Muay Thai, taekwondo, Thai musical instruments, Thai art, Thai handicrafts, Thai chess, mathematics, Burmese language, English language and Rubik’s cube. Nine and 10 years old: Pétanque (B50). 10 years old: Archery (B50), Ankaloong (traditional bamboo musical instrument, B50) and use of computers (B200). For over-10-year-olds there are three courses, all at B50: Kendo (Japanese martial art), Pencak Silat (Malay martial art) and Thai typing. For more information call 076-250163 or 076-212196

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PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

FEATHERS FLY

DSI to hit Pit bull victim’s cop shop mum battles builders Sixteen collared during for compensation with fraud cockfight crackdown chaos

THE DEPARTMENT OF Special Investigation (DSI) will bring fraud charges against PCC Development and Construction Co (PCC) after receiving complaints from 20 companies subcontracted by PCC to build police stations nationwide, including in Phuket. Almost three years ago the PCC was awarded a controversial contract by the Royal Thai Police Office (RTPO) to build 396 police station buildings across the country, including several in Phuket. The firm is alleged to have subcontracted other companies to do the work, in violation of its contract, and the construction projects were left largely unfinished and abandoned. Pol Lt Col Thawal Mangkhang, a special cases specialist, said today (March 4) that 20 of the subcontractors had filed complaints against PCC with the DSI, alleged they had been cheated. The DSI would therefore file 20 separate fraud charges against PCC. The charge carries a maximum three-year prison sentence in each case. He did not say when the DSI would file the cases against PCC; it would wait to see whether the RTPO decides to extend or terminate the contract with PCC when it expires on March 14. If the RTPO terminates the contract, the DSI will charge PCC with violating the bidding price-collusion law, because it made an unusually low bid and was then unable to complete the project, he said. DSI chief Tarit Pengdith said three PCC executives – Piboon Udomsithikul, Wissanu Wisetsing and Jaturong Udonsithikul – are to report to DSI investigators on Thursday morning (March 7) to acknowledge the fraud charges.

Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter4@thephuketnews.com

ixteen people were arrested for cockfighting and gambling in a raid on a cockfight in Baan Bangla in Pa Khlok on Sunday afternoon (March 3). After being tipped off by an informant, police, led by Thalang superintendent Pol Lt Col Amnauy Kraiwutanan, moved in quietly. They watched as some 50 people prepared from the cockfight and then noisily started setting bets. Police crashed into the clearing and chased the gamblers. Chaos ensued as people fled into the trees in all directions. Policemen managed to grab the slowest 16. They also seized two roosters, the cockfighting pit and B220 in cash. Col Amnauy said, “They were charged with taking part in an illegal sport, and with gambling.” He explained that the gambling charges could result in

A police officer checks the roosters after the raid. fines of up to B5,000, while using animals for sports may be punished with up to three years in jail. “They will be locked up

Bragger stabbed to death at karaoke A M A N WA S FOU N D stabbed to death in front of his house on Sri Sena Rd, Phuket Town, at around 1am on Saturday (March 2). Lt Col Prawith Engchuan of Phuket City police told The Phuket News that when officers were called to the scene they found Surasit “Deaw” Sukhum lying dead in front of his home, which is right next to Kanokphat Karaoke. They learned from witnesses that Mr Surasit had

for a couple of weeks, waiting to appear in court,” he said. “After that, it will be about a year before the court renders its decision.”

THE VICTIM OF A TERrifying American pitbull terrier dog attack four weeks ago, 33-year-old Tiarasak Ekpaiboon, was transferred this week to Phuket International Hospital as his mother continues to battle for compensation to pay the rising hospital bills. Benjarat Ekpaiboon, Mr Tiarasak’s mother, told The Phuket News on Tuesday (March 5) that her son has been transferred to Phuket International Hospital for specialist treatment to serious wounds on both of his legs. “His wounds are still not healing up,” Mrs Benjarat said. “He may be released from the hospital in a few days but he still won’t be able to move much, and he won’t be able to work.” The owner of the three u ncont rolled dogs who attacked Mr Tiarasak has been battling to pay as little as possible in compensation.

New Stoc k

gone into the karaoke, where he had bragged loudly and bad-mouthed a group of five customers. Naturally annoyed at this, the group taught him a lesson by stabbing him to death. Police later arrested two men, Phusit Paosuparp, 43, a nd Apicha et Ja npr a d it 33. They are looking for a third, whom they named as Chavalit Rattanamuang. The names of the other two customers are not yet known.

Building C1-C2 Premium Outlet-Gallery Zone, Bypass Rd., Phuket 83000, Thailand Tel: (076) 350-465 Fax: (076) 350-465 Email: abfabsales@gmail.com www.abfabphuket.com Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10 am-5.30 pm Closed: Sunday

A lt hou g h t h e c o s t of the victim’s stay in Bangkok Hospital Phuket soared to B780,000, the dog owner has paid just B300,000, Mrs Benjarat said. “He has also insisted that my son be moved to the [cheaper] OrBorJor hospital, failing which he says he will pay nothing more,” she said. She said she had herself paid the additional B480,000 to meet the bill at the Bangkok Hospital and still was not sure how much the specialist treatment at Phuket International Hospital will cost. Meanwhile, neither mother nor son can run the family business. “While we are at the hospital, we can’t work much. He can’t move and I have to take care of him.” Mrs Benjarat said the dogs’ owner went to see her at the hospital to tell her that the three pit bulls have been sent to a dog training school.

has

arriv ed!!

OPINION

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Opinion

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

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EDITORIAL

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SIMON OSTHEIMER Managing Editor 083 922 9265 managingeditor@thephuketnews.com 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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We all have to take our turns in the hot seat

ompetition among tourists for beach chairs on Karon and Kata Beaches has become fierce after one third of the chairs were removed last Friday (March 1). There were originally three rows of beach chairs along the beach, but these were reduced to two after a temporary agreement to increase the number of rows expired. The cut sparked plenty of complaints from tourists, with some saying that they couldn’t find vacant chairs to lounge on, and were instead forced to lie on the hot sand in the sun. Others said they had reserved chairs, only to come back and find them occupied by other people. The story has also been topical with the island’s residents, including some who oppose the hiring of beach

chairs altogether, and say the beach should be available for everyone, and not used for business. It is indeed a common sight at beaches all along the west and south coasts of Phuket to find row upon row of deck chairs, sometimes making it almost impossible to reach the sea without tripping over someone’s handbag, drink, or child. While local residents have the option, and probably more desire, to find unoccupied beaches with no chairs in more remote parts of the island, tourists are often more than happy with the current set-up – paying B200 for the luxury of a chair (when they can find a vacant one) to escape the scorching sand. We all have to accept that the days are gone when the majority of Phuket’s beaches were tranquil and beach-chair-

free – the chairs are here to stay and islanders of all stripes just have to get used to this. But the problem is the consistency – the two-row restriction is not the same everywhere, and is largely determined by the local “beach chair club”. Patong, for example, has four rows. There are also other factors which likely determine how many rows – such as size of the sand area and demand for chairs. The issue is no longer whether the beach chairs are there or not – it’s how many are allowed, and where do you draw the line in the sand, literally. Let’s hope a resolution can be found before stories emerge of tourists scuffling over beach chairs – more damage to Phuket’s international reputation over such a minor issue is not needed.

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OPINION

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

The industrious feeling in Myanmar Graham Doven

Eric Warry, Min Min and son Kyle waiting for their car to be fixed.

y friend Eric has lived in Myanmar for 22 years. He is a project manager on construction jobs and when I first met him he was refurbishing the Chedi Resort on Surin Beach in Phuket. That resort was part of the Aman Group who also owned the historically famous Strand Hotel in Yangon. The Strand was one of the great hotels of Asia, made more famous because of its illustrious guests, which has included royalty and famous writers such as Somerset Maughan and Noel Coward, not to mention the Rolling Stones’ Mick Jagger. It was once part of a circuit that included Raffles in Singapore, The Oriental in Bangkok and the The Peninsula in Hong Kong. When Eric arrived at the Strand he met Min Min, who worked in the reception and had graduated with a degree in Pure Mathematics. To cut a long story short, Eric and Min Min got married and have three children, three dogs and a maid. They have a big house, so they invited me to stay. I have recently been working with a US company who decided to build a new factory in Thailand, and I am constantly asked about Myanmar. As such, I decided I needed to spend some time there to at least appear knowledgeable. Eric knows everybody in Myanmar and everybody knows Eric, he has been building houses, factories, hotels and

swimming pools in the country for the past 20 years. When I visited, he took me on a tour of the main industrial estates, including Mingaladen, a town in the very north of Yangon province. The international airport is also in Mingaladen district, while the Mingaladen Golf and Country Club, apart from having an excellent golf course, club and spa, has some very nice homes. Eric built some of these and also many of the swimming pools. The industrial estates around this area have very little actual manufacturing like in Thailand. There are virtually no skilled workers for modern manufacturing facilities such as the automotive or electronics industries. That said, it was only when certain universities in Thailand and some foreign governments set up engineering colleges that Thailand’s massive auto industry started to grow. The reason why my company decided to build an aerospace facility here was because of the availability of skilled workers. At the moment most industries in Myanmar produces goods for domestic consumption, and while some heavy machinery and basic vehicles are assembled locally, most factories make food packaging, clothing, household goods and woodcraft. However, the people of Myanmar are enthusiastic and seem determined to move forward. “ We can go faster than other countries in Southeast Asia” one

local businessman told me. “ We are not communists”. He may have a point, although he may also be a little optimistic about the progress of the infrastructure needed to turn Myanmar into a major manufacturing base. The country also needs the help of governments like Germany and Japan, who have assisted Thailand with the engineering colleges needed to allow companies like Toyota, Mitsubishi, Mercedes and BMW to set up. Setting up these educational facilities is essential for the skilled labour required in industries such as precision manufacturing of parts or electronics. Logistics are also a long way off. Transport for a manufacturing export industry is critical, especially the seaport. Air transport is expensive and limited, and while there is much talk of a highway to Bangkok, this is not a long term solution except for exports to Thailand. However, the wharves and ports are of interest, and there are lots of possibilities. That’s for my next visit, but the possibility of a boat trip leaving from Phuket travelling up through the 800 hundred islands that make the Mergui Archipelago or Myeik as the Burmese call it, then coming up through the Irawaddy delta and right into Yangon is an exciting prospect. Until the major reforms of the past year, this would have been an impossible task.

HAVE YOUR SAY Cancel the contract [Re. Phuket: DSI to charge police station builders with fraud] Is it just me or is all this just going to lead to more corruption? Why not just terminate their contract for breach and charge them? Justaskdan

Cock and bull story? [Re. 16 gamblers caught at Phuket cock fight] I saw the noisy buggers being led off – so glad now our early am will be peaceful for a while! Ian L. Hannaford

Let them live [Re. Phuket Sea Gypsies lose first round of land fight] Don’t be so greedy, sounds like he is well off. Those people have been there way before him, he should never have gotten any land! See all

Yahoo wahoo!

[Re. Big finale for Phuket’s Wahoo fishing tourney]

Bravo for the Hook boys, see you soon with Big John. Van Damme Jean pierre

Story is the pits [Re. Phuket man gravely savaged in pit bull attack] Pitbulls scare tourists away, too. Kowal Joan A friend of mine had her dog attacked by pitbulls too as they were out of the yard without the owner. And he never recovered sadly. Could have easily been a child. bev These injuries were accomplished by “good” pit bulls, doing exactly what pits were created to do: attack for no reason, immediately do damage, not stopping even if the victim says Uncle. Unless you fight dogs, you don’t need these abilities and instincts. Here’s an idea. Let’s stop breeding more pits! Let them mercifully become extinct. Dog fighters hate this compassionate workable idea, as it would make

it difficult for them to continue. Debbie Bell Pit bulls maul, maim and kill more people than all other breeds combined, and yet pit bulls only make up less than four per cent of the dog population. It isn’t rocket science people. Brad White

More control needed [Re. Laguna Phuket boss counters ‘low-end’ critics] It’s attitudes like these that have lead to the destruction of Phuket. Lack of decent zoning, no aesthetic controls on building, naked greed have all led to a completely unsustainable situation. Richard

Counting the tills [Re. City fathers move to cramp Phuket Tesco plans] In all the years I’ve lived here I often wondered why these stores have tills dotted everywhere. The most obvious being Super-Cheap. I should have guessed

they were avoiding building regulations. LOL. Agogohome

Save the sharks [Re. DNP boss promotes species conservation in Phuket] Banish shark fishing as they are worth more alive than dead by divers who pay a lot of money to travel to the tropics to meet them under water. Hopefully Thai divers in Bangkok should be mobilised to save what can still be saved. Asterix

Rage on the roads [Re. Pistol-toting Phuket bus driver in road rage threat] I’m always fearful when I see a mini bus in my rear window. They are always in a hurry and are the worst, vicious drivers. Who hires these people? You have to feel sorry for the passengers inside these buses. I would never get in a mini bus. They need to have a large sign on all mini buses with a phone number to complain to. Robbie

So long Skepper [Re. Wake to celebrate Phuket expat Johnny Skepper] So sad, Johnny never had a bad word to say about anyone and despite his illness he was always cheerful and great fun. I thoroughly enjoyed your company Johnny. It is true when they say only the good die young. You will be sorely missed. Bob Andrews RIP Johnny... you were a beautiful soul. Mike Flynn

Calling on the defence [Re. Aldhouse pleads not guilty to Phuket murder] I would love to see a Phuket News background story on how the criminal trial process works in Thailand, and what some of the cultural differences might be, compared to the West. It appears that, in effect, [Aldhouse] had little in the way of viable defence representation at this hearing. It also

Want to share your opinion? Comment at thephuketnews.com

seems quite normal here for the defence attorney to urge their client to plead guilty. I would love to learn more. matt edwards

Sit on this [Re. Phuket beach chair cutback makes tourists grumpy] What a load of rubbish. Tourists say it is too hot, to sit on the sand, go to any Australian beach and you will see hundreds, if not thousands, sitting on the sand, umbrellas yes, deck chairs no. The beaches are for public use, not for business. Laurie Howells Who gives a flying deckchair? woody As a non-recumbent beach user I object to the privatisation of more of our precious public beach space. It’s already difficult to squeeze through the chairs to get to the sea. It’s another step in the downgrading of Phuket as a desirable destination. Beachcomber

10 THAILAND NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Australian accused of Chiang Mai rape

IN BRIEF Police raid discovers Go-Go boys for sale A police raid on a gay bar in Pattaya uncovered 17 boys under age 18 wearing only their underwear and available for sex in upstairs rooms on March 5. Three adult employees were arrested. Bar patrons were detained and later released. The minor boys were sent to a Child Protective Centre. Pattaya Daily News

Crazed elephant kills woman on Rayong beach A 56-year-old woman was fatally gored by a twoyear-old elephant on Maerampung beach, Pattaya on March 4. The mahout and the elephant’s owner will be prosecuted. PDN

Suspect cop takes B700,000 found by honest lady A 30-year-old housemaid handed in a bag containing B700,000 to Pattaya police on March 4. When she later went to check, the cash and police officer had disappeared. She was then accused of lying by police. PDN

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

SAVING THE UNIVERSE Miss Universe 2005 Natalie Glebova, dressed as Wonder Woman along with children in Superman attire, takes part in a WWF-sponsored demonstration outside the venue of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) on its opening day in Bangkok on March 3. Photo: AFP/Pairoj

A 93-YEAR-OLD AUSTRAlian accused of sex crimes against Chiang Mai children has asked the court to free him because, he says, he is dying of cancer anyway, says the Bangkok Post. Karl Joseph Kraus, first arrested in 2010, has been held in prison awaiting trial because he tried to skip bail and flee to Myanmar last year. “I’ll be dead” before a trial can be held, Mr Kraus said, according to Tuesday’s edition of the Sydney Morning Herald. Last August, he was detained in Myanmar, where he allegedly asked authorities to arrest him and deport him to Australia. The Myanmar border officials declined, and sent him back to Thailand. In a report in The Age, police allege one of four under-age sisters Mr Kraus lured to a house with promises of imported chocolates and English lessons was only five when the abuse began. The Chiang Mai Criminal Court will hear his plea to be released on March 18.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

Creating a home for the transgender community

dozen elderly women are gathered inside the pink house, set on a narrow dirt road in a dusty suburb of Jakarta. Together they sew, bake and chat. On first sight they look like a group of benevolent grandmothers, but the sunken cheeks and deep lines on some of their faces tell stories of hardship. All of these women are “waria”, a term used for Indonesian transgender people, and the house in the country’s capital has been hailed by activists as the first old person’s home for that gender community. The word waria combines the Indonesian for woman (wanita) and the word for man (pria). It is used to describe a range of gender identities, though it particularly refers to men who feel they are women and is applied regardless of whether they have undergone gender reassignment surgery or hormone therapy. A home for elderly waria is an unexpected sight but

Iis, 51, (wearing headscarf) listens to Yulianus Rettoblaut, prominent activist and law graduate from an Islamic university, better known as Mami Yul. Photo: AFP/ Romeo Gacad

perhaps also typical of the many contradictions in a nation where, until two years ago, the official government line on transgender people was that they were mentally ill. As part of new moves towards acceptance, the government will in March begin supporting the home, which officially opened in Novem-

ber, with a basic nutrition programme while offering business seed money to 200 transgender residents in the city. However, most of the funds needed to support the home will continue to come from its founder, Yulianus Rettoblaut, a waria and prominent activist better-known as Mami Yuli,

who turned her own house into the shelter last year. “We are focusing on elderly waria because NGOs usually focus on young ones,” the 51-year-old told AFP. She was inspired to take action after seeing many of her fellow ageing waria on the streets, ill, unemployed and forced to live in squalid

conditions. While a few waria have found domestic celebrity as talk show hosts or emcees, most across Southeast Asia’s biggest nation of 240 million people are cast out by relatives who would otherwise be responsible for the care of their elderly family members. “Life for them is very difficult and many live under the poverty line. They often have no choice but to sleep under bridges,” Mami Yuli said. While the home is grossly underfunded, she tries to offer three daily meals to residents who learn sewing, baking and hairdressing if they are jobless. Conditions are far from ideal – the 12 waria who live there sleep on old mattresses crammed into one bedroom at the top of steep, narrow stairs. When Mami Yuli fails to raise the 350,000 rupiah (B1,070) a day needed to run the house, she organises street performances where the residents of the home sing and dance. Despite their age they are expected to work to make a living if they can. AFP

Australia to tackle gambling addicts

‘Pokies’ are the most popular form of betting in Australia, but the government hopes to help addicts. Photo: kalleboo

IT’S JUST AFTER MORN ing opening at Sydney’s Randwick Labor Club, and already a few regulars are at the slot machines, or “pokies” as they are better known, for a quiet flutter. Electronic poker machines are the most popular form of betting in Australia, but concerns about problem gamblers have prompted the government to introduce reforms to help keep their spending under control. There are about 200,000 electronic gaming machines in Australia, with about 600,000 Australians playing them at

least weekly, according to a Productivity Commission report released in 2010. But concerned that 15 per cent of these players are problem gamblers whose money accounts for about 40 per cent of spending, the government has moved to encourage all players to “pre-commit” to a financial limit before they start so they don’t over-spend. Under legislation passed late in 2012, while the scheme will remain voluntary, poker machine manufacturers must put the new pre-commitment technology on all new machines by the end of 2014.

Warnings will also flash up on players’ screens with messages questioning them along the lines of, “How long have you been playing?” and “Have you spent beyond your limits?” The biggest clubs will also limit daily cash withdrawals from automatic teller machines to A$250, (B7,000) although this will not apply to casinos. Anti-gambling campaigners say the scheme does not go far enough, since played at high intensity, it is easy to lose A$1,500 (B46,000) or more an hour on a poker machine. AFP

ASIA NEWS 11

Chinese prisoners executed FOUR GANG MEMBERS from Southeast Asian countries were executed in China Friday for the murder of 13 sailors on the Mekong river, after being paraded on live state television. Naw Kham, a Myanmar drug gang leader, and three of his accomplices faced lethal injection with a mixture of defiance and fear in the broadcast on CCTV which showed them being taken from prison to the execution cite. The four, along with two other accused, admitted intentional homicide, drug trafficking, kidnapping and hijacking at their trial last year, state news agency Xinhua said, over a raid on two Chinese riverboats in October 2011. Xinhua described Naw Kham as “the boss of the largest armed drug trafficking gang” on the river which flows through China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, adding that he was nicknamed “the Godfather”. The incident sparked outrage in China, where photographs of the gagged and blindfolded victims circulated online, and the progress of the case has been given prominent coverage in state media. In the broadcast Naw Kham, 43, smiled slightly before grimacing as a restraining rope was tied around him in the prison in Kunming, in the southern province of Yunnan. He then emerged into bright sunlight and a bank of television cameras, before being put into a van and driven away. His fellow inmates, named by state media as Hsang Kham, 61 from Thailand, Yi Lai, 55, and Zha Xika, 28, followed. AFP

12 WORLD NEWS

UN seeks more than US$10bn in funding THE UNITED NATIONS and humanitarian agencies are seeking US$10.4 billion (B309 billion) in aid to assist millions people in Syria and 23 other countries, a top UN official said here Tuesday. “We and our humanitarian partners are seeking US$10.4 billion this year to help more than 57 million people in 24 countries with some of the world’s most pressing crises,” Valerie Amos, the visiting UN emergency relief coordinator, said. Just in Syria 4 million people are in need of assistance and more than 1.4 billion are required for the next four months, Amos, the UN under-secretary general for humanitarian affairs, said. “In the last year alone, I visited more than 40 countries from Syria to Sudan, DR Congo, Niger, Afghanistan and Myanmar, and saw and heard for myself the terrible conditions that families face,” she said. Last year, the UN and its partners were able to collect only of US$5.5 billion of the US$8.9 billion sought. AFP

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

New York photographer snaps faces of his city N

ew York is famously photogenic, but photographer Brandon Stanton is not interested in the skyscrapers, bridges or famous yellow cabs. It is New Yorkers themselves he wants to capture – 10,000 of them. Every day, the obsessive shutterbug goes out through Harlem, Brooklyn, Manhattan and the Bronx to snap another New York face. He is up to nearly 5,000. There is a woman in white furs, an older man in a fake tiger-skin coat, a nun, a man in wizard costume, ballerinas posing over heating vents, and a Michael Jackson lookalike busking in the subway. “I am going on a treasure hunt,” Stanton said. The photographer describes himself on his website as “really passionate about things”, which is something of an understatement. The 10,000 pictures idea came up after he moved to New York from Chicago where he had just lost a job trading bonds on the Chicago Board of Trade. The fact he had no

He’s even stopped focusing on the idea of trying to reach a specific number of photos: he has bigger responsibilities. “In two years, I’ve never had holidays. We could think that it is easy to be my own boss, but my actual boss is my 560,000 followers, for whom I have to update pictures every day. It can be very stressful,” he said. Even New York is no longer big enough for the Humans project. In December Stanton travelled to Iran to do the same Brandon Stanton, creator of the Humans of New York blog, photographs a man named thing. He now has 20,000 Carl as part of his photography project. Photo: AFP/Stan Honda Iranian followers on his blog. “My perspective now is to photography experience did simple, “Hi, can I take a picture a lot of love to give. of you?” This then develops The first year of the project go everywhere,” he said. not faze him. Inspired by Stanton, other “Mom wasn’t too happy into more personal questions was difficult, he says, with photographers are already about that decision, but so far aimed at getting to know his only 3,000 online followers. starting to do the same kind it’s gone pretty well,” he writes. latest New Yorker, which in“We were very worried After two years, Stanton clude things like “What was for him, but he kept going,” of photographic catalogue of has earned a big following, the happiest moment of your his friend Samuel Ward said. their cities. There are imitawith nearly 560,000 Facebook life?” “When he begins something, tion projects such as Humans fans. A few answers stick out in he is very into it, very focused.” of Paris, Humans of Beirut, When Stanton’s blog caught Humans of Buenos Aires and His method is to walk, Stanton’s mind, among them an often for hours, in search of a alcoholic homeless man who on, the nature of the idea even Karachi on Facebook. “It is great, but I prefer striking image that he thinks dreamt of going fishing and a changed. “At the beginning will let him get through to the young punk who said simply it was about my work. Now it to be focused on my work, subject’s personality. she wanted to be happy. A is more about the phenomenon without caring about them,” He always starts with a widow told him she still had which brings people,” he said. Stanton said. AFP

     

Massive winter storm grounds 2,600 US flights A MASSIVE WINTER storm pounding the northern United States Tuesday grounded 2,600 f lights, closed hundreds of schools and made roadways and highways impassible. At least four people were reportedly killed in accidents on icy and snow covered roads and highways. More than a dozen states from Minnesota to Virginia were in the path of

           

                                             



the huge storm, which had already dumped as much as 60 centimetres of snow in Montana and 38 centimetres in North Dakota. The heavily populated Chicago area was expected to get as much as 2.5 centimetres of snow an hour during the evening rush, the National Weather Service said. Nearly 900 flights were grounded at Chicago’s

O’Hare airport – a major hub – while another 260 were cancelled at Chicago Midway on Tuesday. Over 100 flights were cancelled in Minneapolis, Minnesota, which helped push the day’s total to 1,465, according to FlightAware. Another 1,162 flights scheduled for Wednesday had already been cancelled, mainly in the Washington area. AFP

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

BUSINESS NEWS 13

BIG SECRET

Tour guide laws on the table as AEC nears Tourism ‘driving elephant smuggling’ THE BUREAU OF TOUR ism and Guide Business Registration of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) held a meeting with hotel and tourism representatives and legal experts, to discuss the law governing tour guide businesses, before the ASEAN Economic Community takes place in 2015. Tourism Department Deputy Director-General Kajorn Veerajai said Thailand’s entry into the AEC would bring both good and bad impacts to the tourism industry. This has prompted the Department of Tourism to encourage those involved in the sector to make use of the opportunities provided by the AEC. However, he said, some sections in the Tourism and Guide Business Act 2008 have made Thai tourism difficult to expand. Such obstacles include restrictions in obtaining permits as tour guides and foreign share-holding in local busi-

nesses, just to name a few. Mr Kajorn said that there are not enough tour guides in specialised fields, and no incentives are provided to boost operators in the industry. The Bureau of Tourism and Guide Business Registration Director General, Wannasiri Morakul, said an amendment to the law needed approvals from stakeholders in the industry. The Department of Tourism has tasked Burapha University with conducting a comparative study on tourism-related laws in nine other ASEAN countries, and using the results to modernise the Thai law. The Department of Tourism will this year concentrate on exchanging ideas on tourism business practices with other ASEAN nations, after which a bill on Tourism and Guide Businesses will be drafted and is expected to be proposed to a House committee by the end of the year. NNT

muggling the world’s largest land animal across an international border sounds like a mammoth undertaking, but activists say that does not stop traffickers supplying Asian elephants to Thai tourist attractions. Unlike their heavilypoached African cousins – whose plight is set to dominate Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) talks in Bangkok next week – Asian elephants do not often make the headlines. But the species is also under threat, as networks operate a rapacious trade in wild elephants to meet the demands of Thailand’s tourist industry. Camps and zoos featuring elephants tightrope walking, playing football or performing in painting contests employ almost 4,000 elephants for the amusement of tourists. Conservation activists accuse the industry of using smuggled animals to supplement its legal supply, with wild elephants caught in Myanmar and sold across the border. Domestic elephants in Thailand – where the pachyderm is

Demand for elephants for trekking is fueling crime. a national symbol – have been employed in the tourist trade since they found themselves unemployed in 1989, when logging was banned. Just 2,000 animals remain in the wild, and prices have exploded: elephants now command between B500,000 and B2 million (US$17,000 to US$67,000) per baby, estimates suggest.

The number of baby ele phants “coming into the system” is far higher than would be possible “from actual breeding”, said John Roberts of the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation, whose group decided to stop buying elephants seven years ago. “I cannot see a way to buy an elephant which doesn’t cause another elephant to be

smuggled,” he said. Between 50 and 100 wild baby or young female elephants are sold from Myanmar each year, according to British charity Elephant Family. The group’s head of conservation, Dan Bucknell, said that while some trafficked elephants may be taken elsewhere, the majority enter the Thai market. “Thailand is certainly a hub,” he said. Smuggling such a large mammal should in theory require elaborate planning to avoid the police but in reality traffickers just “do it over a normal road”, said wildlife trade researcher Vincent Nijman of Oxford Brookes university. “Elephants can be in a truck or even walk” across the Thai border in front of complicit customs officers and border guards, he said. Laos, known as the “land of a million elephants”, has only 300 to 500 wild pachyderms left and Gilles Maurer of the group ElephantAsia said that as the domestic population shrinks, “there is a strong risk” that poachers will turn to them. Bangkok Post

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14 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

Govt mulls foreigners’ health insurance plan

he Ministry of Public Health on Thursday revealed it was seeking appropriate forms of health insurance for foreigners in preparation for the formation of the Asean Economic Community (AEC) in 2015. Public Health Minister Pradit Sinthawanarong said after a meeting with members of the International Public Health Policy Committee that the ministry was pushing ahead with a plan to stabilise the health insurance system and ensure it covers all groups of people, including foreigners, in Thailand. Mr Pradit said the ministry was in the process of improving the public health service system to ensure more effectiveness. It will set up a national public

health commission to drive the country’s health policies in the same direction. On health care measures for foreigners in preparation for the AEC, the ministry will target three groups of foreign nationals: people from countries sharing borders with Thailand who seek medical treatment here; foreign (migrant) workers and expatriates and their families who are not under the social security system; and foreigners who require a visa to enter Thailand. For the first group, the ministry will set charges for those living along the borders and who enter the kingdom to seek medical treatment as a short-term measure. It will help to develop domestic health insurance systems

in the neighbouring countries of Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia through international organisations including the World Health Organisation (WHO) in an attempt to encourage their citizens to make us of medical services in their countries. The ministry will also introduce a “health card” scheme in May. Foreign workers and expatriates would be urged to buy health cards for their newborn babies which would allow them to receive all the same health benefits as Thais. It was considering the pros and cons of an idea to sell travel health insurance for visitors in the third group to make sure the move does not affect tourism, Mr Pradit said. Bangkok Post

MARKING THE BEST OF BANGKOK Bangkok Airways recently celebrated its 45th

anniversary with a circus-themed party at the Bangkok Convention Centre, Centara Grand at Central World. Pictured, from left, are Suthikiati Chirathivat, Vice-Chairman of Central Group; Capt Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, President of Bangkok Airways; Dr Prasert Prasarttong-Osoth, CEO of Bangkok Airways; Dr Sorajak Kasemsuwan, President of Thai Airways International; and Pravit Maleenont, Executive director of BEC World.

When property investments crumble EXPAT MONEY Jerry Dingley editor@thephuketnews.com

IN OUR MOST RECENT article, we focused on the very real benefits of accumulating a portfolio of physical property to create a personal retirement plan that will generate a passive income stream from rents, and hopefully also bring the added benefit of capital gains in the future. Following on with the same theme, we have noticed a sharp increase recently in the number of distribution companies and marketing teams selling commercial property funds in various guises. The marketing literature hints heavily at stellar ongoing returns, limited or zero downside risk, and no correlation with the ups and downs of the world’s business and economic cycles. Some of these vehicles

could be worth considering if the underlying asset is generating its income from a sector where the supply and demand curve is likely to remain positive. In relatively low amounts and percentages (repeat that three times), these vehicles can perhaps provide useful diversification to a portfolio of traditional assets. But the oft-invoked saying that ‘If it looks too good to be true then it probably is’ should always be borne in mind, and one should tread with caution. We don’t have to go very far back in time to see how things can go very wrong indeed for a property fund and the investors in it when commercial values fall. Countless commercial property funds went into ‘lock up’ or liquidation following the 2008 collapse of Lehman Brothers, which in turn led to the ongoing financial crisis that is still being felt today. Some of those funds were

launched by the ‘world’s biggest banks’ and their in-house private banking arms, who then sold them directly to their database of bank account holders, including mom-and-pop retail clients and retirees. Investors who bought funds from those banks perhaps thought that the banks were too big to fail and, even if they did fail, investors would be protected. Wrong. If a fund owns physical property and then uses that property to generate income from leases, lets, rents, or commercial factory production in one form or another, then the value of the underlying property goes a long way to determining the end return to investors. This same value is calculated by a property appraisal company (whose bill for services rendered is, more often than not, paid by the fund management group itself). The value is based in large

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part on the return on equity that is being generated from the building on any particular valuation date. While a fund is generating high single-digit returns everyone is happy to remain invested – perhaps thinking it is going to last forever. However, in order to be able to offer such returns the managers have to be pretty much fully invested all the time, which leaves little room for an exit strategy because all the cash is tied up in physical assets. As returns start to fall, more and more people want to sell their holdings to use the proceeds elsewhere. But the managers may not have enough cash to pay the redemption requests and they can’t sell the properties quickly enough – if at all. The fund can then go into a ‘lock up’ phase and no one gets anything until the managers can find a buyer or buyers for the property, and that can take a long time. After all,

it’s falling in value, so who’s going to buy? Sometimes the sale come too late to prevent a forced liquidation and a subsequent payout of 10 cents on the dollar with a nice letter of apology. Thanks for that. Property valuations in the US and Middle East, for example, were hit particularly hard following the 2008 crisis and still today, some five years later, there is a vast amount of bricks and mortar that is worth a fraction of what it was. Some of those ‘safe’ investments are now worth 20 per cent of what they were when the original investment was made. And to add insult to injury, even that 20 per cent is still frozen because buyers cannot be found. The fact is that prices were at silly levels back then anyway, having been ramped up by the irresponsible and reckless lending practices of the very same banks that were at the same time selling the very

same funds that owned those very same properties … and still are and still do. Sublime irony, you couldn’t invent it. Jerry Dingley and business partner Tim Whiteley have a combined 50 years’ experience advising expatriates and international investors both in the UK and in the Asia Pacific region. Specialist areas include offshore trusts and wealth protection vehicles, private client portfolios, QROPS UK pension transfers and creating tax-efficient retirement solutions for individuals around the world. Contact them by email at 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.

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AVIATION NEWS 15

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

Big turnaround for THAI as 2012 profitability soars THAI AIRWAYS INTERnational (THAI) has announced a net profit of more than B6 billion for last year’s operations – a sharp turnaround from 2011 when the company suffered a B10.2 billion loss. THAI Board of Directors president Ampon Kitti-ampon said net profit last year was B6.2 billion while the combined profit of the flag carrier and its subsidiaries, Nok Air and Thai Smile, reached B6.5 billion. He said the international aviation business overall had improved last year despite a global economic slowdown and tough competition, domestically and internationally. THAI’s operations were severely affected by the massive floods in late 2011, compelling it to adversely adjust its marketing strategy by offering tickets at lower prices to stimulate passengers to fly with THAI, Mr Ampon said. He said the airline boosted its competitive edge last year with ownership of more shares at Nok Air and launching Thai Smile, to expand and

strengthen the corporation’s aviation network. The airline made an impressive passenger load factor (PLF) in 2012 – the highest in five years – at an average utilisation of 76.6 per cent, representing an increase from 70.4 per cent in the preceding year. PLF is a measure to calculate the average occupancy on various routes of an airline. Of THAI’s B213.5 billion revenue last year, B8.3 billion was from Nok Air’s operations, B1.6 billion from profit in buying the Nok Air business, and B10 billion from operating revenue. THAI, which is listed on the SET, reported total assets of B304 billion as of December 31, 2012, an increase of B30.1 billion from 2011, and liabilities at B234.3 billion, an increase by B23.2 billion. Mr Ampon said THAI’s operating performance in January was satisfactory with 1.89 million passengers, an increase of 0.14 million passengers, or 8.1 per cent, from January 2011. MCOT Online

AirAsia sees profit jump 168pc in Q4 AIRASIA, ASIA’S LARGEST low-cost carrier by fleet size, said Tuesday that its fourthquarter profit jumped 168 per cent year-on-year amid increased passengers. AirAsia said in a statement that net profit for the quarter ending December 31 stood at 351 million ringgit (B3.4 billion), up from 131 million ringgit (B1.3 billion) in the same quarter the previous year thanks to “a seasonally strong quarter”. Revenue for the quarter was a record 1.4 billion ringgit (B13.5 billion), up 10 per cent, as more people flew the airline, which increased its aircraft in Malaysia to more than 60. “It has been another good quarter and overall a great year for AirAsia as we continue to defy the industry in terms of operational and financial performance,” said Malaysia AirAsia Chief Executive Officer Aireen Omar. For the full financial year, AirAsia recorded a 238 per cent jump in net profit to 1.88 billion ringgit (B18 billion) despite a 1 per cent rise in the

average fuel price this year. Its 2012 revenue increased by 11 per cent to 5 billion ringgit (B48 billion). Group Chief Executive Officer Tony Fernandes was bullish about the year ahead as AirAsia expands its model – no frills and keeping operational costs low. “The aviation landscape is constantly changing with high fuel prices and new competition, but through all these challenges AirAsia will continue to defend our leadership titles,” he said. AirAsia has grown rapidly since Fernandes, a former record industry executive, bought the failing airline in 2001. It initially had only two aircraft in operation. The group now has a total fleet of 120 A320s and has set up subsidiary budget carriers in Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Japan. The airline, one of the biggest customers for European aircraft maker Airbus, is expecting 360 more aircraft to be delivered up to 2026. AFP

Asia-Pacific ‘will lead aircraft demand to 2033’ sia-Pacific airlines will lead global demand for larger and more eco-efficient aircraft types over the next 20 years, according to the latest market forecast for the region by Airbus. The forecast was presented in Singapore by John Leahy, Airbus’s Chief Operating Officer, Customers. His remarks coincided (perhaps not so coincidentally) with the roll-out of the new Airbus A350 XWB, which Airbus claims “will be one of the most eco-efficient planes of its type in the air, burning a quarter less fuel than the previous generation of comparable long-range twin-aisle aircraft”. Altogether, airlines from Asia-Pacific will take delivery of around 9,870 new passenger and cargo aircraft in the coming 20 years, valued at US$1.6 trillion. This represents 35 per cent of all new aircraft deliveries worldwide over the next 20 years, ahead of Europe and North America. In terms of value, the region will account for 40 per cent of the global market for new airliners, reflecting the higher proportion of widebody aircraft required by Asia-Pacific carriers. In the passenger market, the fleet of aircraft operated by Asia-Pacific carriers is expected to more than double in the coming 20 years, from 4,300 aircraft today to a total of 10,440 jets, based on higherthan-average annual traffic growth of 5.8 per cent and replacement of nearly 3,500 aircraft in service today. Reflecting the high levels of urbanisation in the Asia-Pacific region, traffic will continue to be concentrated around a growing number of major cities, with larger aircraft providing the most efficient means of meeting demand while overcoming airport constraints. As a result, Airbus predicts that carriers in the region will acquire some 3,840 widebody aircraft over the next 20 years, accounting for 44 per cent of worldwide demand in the larger aircraft categories. The widebody deliveries to the region will include 3,080 twin-aisle aircraft, such as the A330 and all-new A350 XWB, and around 760 very large aircraft with over 400 seats, such as the A380, for the busiest routes. At the top end of the market, the Asia Pacific region will lead global demand for airliners such as the A380, accounting for 45 per cent of deliveries in this size category.

The first Airbus 350 XWB is rolled out of the factory.

In addition to long haul services, carriers in the region will continue to operate large numbers of mid-size widebodies on regional services, with more routes being served in the future by aircraft carrying more than 400 passengers. While Asia-Pacific carriers will lead demand in the larger aircraft segments, the latest Airbus forecast also sees the number of single aisle aircraft in the region accelerating in the coming years. This will be largely driven by the ongoing growth in the low cost sector, which has increased by seven per cent a year for the past 10 years. This growth, plus replacement cycles, will generate demand for some 6,030 new single aisle aircraft in the region, such as the best-selling A320 Family.

As with the widebody market, the average seating capacity of single aisle aircraft in the region will also grow, with a significant move towards the larger models offered by the various manufacturers, and higher seating configurations. Asia Pacific will also continue to dominate the global market in the cargo sector. According to the Airbus forecast, the dedicated freighter fleet operated by Asia-Pacific airlines will grow from 316 today to some 887, representing 30 per cent of the global freighter fleet. While many of the aircraft will be converted from passenger models, Airbus predicts that around 251 new production freighters will be delivered to the region over the next two decades.

As in other world regions, around 30 per cent of the freighters will be in the 45 – 70 tonne category served by mid-size widebody aircraft. “The Asia-Pacific market is where the action will be in the air transport market over the next 20 years,” said Mr Leahy. “Growing economies, bigger cities and increasing wealth will see more people flying, driving the need for larger and more efficient aircraft.” The Asia-Pacific region is a core market for Airbus, accounting for 31 per cent of all orders recorded by the company to date. Today, there are more than 2,100 Airbus aircraft in service with 97 operators across the region, with another 1,800 on order with customers for future delivery.

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16 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

Erawan plans property fund L

The Ibis Phuket Patong, one of two initial targets of the investment fund. Photo: Google

isted Erawan Group PLC has filed documents with the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) for the setting-up of a property fund, writes Bill Barnett in his blog, thephuketinsider.com. The Erawan Hotel Growth Property Fund will launch in the second quarter of this year and will initially invest in the Ibis Phuket Patong and Ibis Pattaya properties. Siam Commercial Bank has been appointed as fund manager. Erawan’s has broader plans for an expansion through acquisition of threeand four-star properties in the country. A new subsidiary, Erawan Growth Management Co, has

been formed to support the property fund. According to industry sources, Erawan had previously focused on an asset disposal exercise in order to cash up for its expansion plans, but was unable to transact the two Ibis properties at their anticipated value, hence the shift in strategy to focus on recycling assets through a property fund instead. Last December Erawan added 378 rooms with its newly opened Ibis and Mercure hotels at the National Stadium in Bangkok. In addition, a 200-room extension at the Holiday Inn Pattaya and the newbuild 2,010-room Mecure Pattaya,

are due for completion at the end of 2014. In its report on 2012 operating results, one highlight for the group was a 17-per cent uplift of year-on-year occupancy at The Naka Resort. The property had been rebranded by Starwood’s Luxury Collection after starting life under Six Senses. L a st ye a r t he r e sor t achieved 43.8-per-cent occupancy with an average room rate of B8,928. Mr Barnett reports that the property fund sector is likely to see further action in 2013 with “a luxury Phuket resort” looking at injecting a prime asset into a fund later this year.

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preparation, the Yacht Solutions team was trained by Atlantic Shrink Wrapping Inc of Washington DC, one of the top shrink-wrapping companies in the US. Simon Twist, Yacht Solutions’ Operations Director and project manager for the Douce France refit, said, “The only way to create the perfect environment for Douce France was to erect a 45m x 20m x 10m shrink-wrapped tent around her. “This offered exceptional protection against environmental factors including rain, RE KÁ TA Beach Club at Boathouse 184, Koktanode Road, Kata Beach, Phuket 83100 (Next to Boathouse) E: info@rekataphuket.com W: rekataphuket.com F: rekataclub T: +66 (0) 76 330 421 design by +66 (0) 83 173 0381

PHUKET’S YACHT SOLUtions has just finished shrinkwrapping an entire luxury yacht, the 42 metre catamaran SY Douce France. This is the first time a superyacht has been entirely shrink-wrapped in Thailand. The new service enables Yacht Solutions to create a climate-controlled environment in which to carry out painting and refitting projects on large yachts. The Douce France was brought from Phuket to Bangkok for extensive painting and mechanical repair work. In

sun and wind. Shrink-wrap tents are now commonplace in the superyacht industry in America and Europe and so we are very happy to be pioneering superyacht shrink wrap tenting here in Thailand.” Shrink wrap is a polyethylene plastic that is formulated to shrink when heat is applied to it. It then forms a tight seal to whatever it is wrapped around or secured to. In this case it was the scaffolding. The shrinking process makes the plastic stronger, allowing it to withstand weather and other elements. Project managers can then work without worrying about the weather. The yacht is protected from external contaminants and also, because the tent can be made airtight it can be vented to provide a temperaturecontrolled work environment. The tent also reduces the possibility of theft. Gareth Twist, Yacht Solutions’s MD, said, “We have been in the marine refit and repair business in Thailand for 12 years, so offering a

Above, the frame for the tent is erected around the Douce France. Below, shrink-wrapped.

superyacht shrink wrapping service seemed a natural progression for us. “The superyacht industry in Asia is growing and recent trends show that there has been a year-on-year increase in the number of superyachts either in the region or going through. By offering this service to international standards we believe will attract more vessels to Thailand all year round for refits, conversions and paintwork.

“With this shrink-wrapping ability we are able to compete with the European yards but with the distinct advantage of having lower labour costs. Our unique combination ensures international standards are maintained while owners receive exceptional value for money and service due to the efficiencies of operating in Thailand.” The tent took seven days to create. Once the scaffolding was erected, the pieces

of plastic were placed and welded together. The plastic was then meticulously cut around the masts and the cables supporting the masts. Each cut was then sealed back together and reinforced. The final step of the project was to put a skirt on the bottom of the structure to meet the ground. The shrink wrapped structure was then fitted with intake and exhaust fans and air conditioning.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

The Placebo effect on health

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

Compost king of Phuket, Kevin Shupe

RING OF TRUTH An uncomfortable visit to a Long-neck Karen village near the Myanmar border > 10

Photo: Alasdair Forbes

2 ARTS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Finding art and culture along Soi Romanee Jody Houton editor3@thephuketnews.com

It’s hard to retain distinctive elements of the culture I think. The demographics are changing, and culture is changing. For the moment though, much of the old world ‘charm’ remains, including the brothel that still runs, just a few doors down

ori Ashton, the owner and founder of local publishing company Serendipity Designs – the producers of the Art & Culture and Treasure Map series – has a wonderful working space and office located on Soi Romanee, in the heart of the Old Town, which is at once inspiring, calm and rather artistic. Lori explains this is an absolute necessity, “Clients need to feel assured that their products [featured in Art & Culture] are represented in the right way.” Ever since the start of this year, Ashton’s company has had its own on-site art gallery, a one room space that contains a fascinating array of products from all across Thailand, including Lanna and Phuket. “Thailand has lots of great products and cultural items. Like hill tribe-made jars and vases,” says Ashton. Indeed, the Serendipity office is a fine example of Phuket art and culture in itself, and in fact it was always Ashton’s intention to move to Soi Romanee. “We came here at the right time. Although we’re celebrating our 13th year this year at Art & Culture, we’ve only been in Soi Romanee for eight,” says Ashton. “My late husband and I always said that if something came up in Soi Romanee, we would move there.” “It’s hard to retain distinctive elements of the culture I think,” says Ashton, as we discuss the ongoing gentrification of Phuket Town. “The demographics are changing, and culture is changing.” For the moment though, much of the old world ‘charm’ remains, including the brothel that still runs, just a few doors down from the Serendipity office. Romanee, you see, means ‘pleasure’ in Thai. Much like the photographer from Takua Pa featured on last week’s Arts page, Lori believes that much could be gained from actually doing something as simple as slowing things down to a walk.

HEAD IN THE CLOUDS The opening night of the Beautiful Darkness Art Exhibition will be held on March 9 at the Vichen Gallery (behind Da Vinci Restaurant in Rawai) from 6pm onwards. The exhibition runs until March 29.

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“We are trying to get the government to close [Soi Romanee], and turn it into a ‘walking street’. I think it would work well, also it would be nice to have the Phuket Town Music Festival make a return. “The thing about Phuket Town,” continues Lori, “is that it’s wonderful but there’s no real specific destination. It’s often completely dependant on the tour guides, and they just sometimes miss out Dibuk Road and Soi Romanee.” Phuket Town is certainly seeing a resurgence of late, with a number of great new cafés and restaurants springing up, buildings being renovated, and new life surging through its veins. “A lot of young people are taking over their parent’s shops and buildings, often places that have remained empty and unused for a generation or so. People are starting to see the value in them.”

Video games zap their way into New York museum

FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH MARCH 8,8,2013

ac-Man and other legends from the video game world became the latest and perhaps most unlikely additions to the Museum of Modern Art’s (MoMA) illustrious collections in New York on Friday. Fourteen games were displayed in the elegant contemporary design gallery on the third floor as part of a wider exhibition called ‘Applied Design,’ which celebrates trends in contemporary design. Pac-Man (1980) and Tetris (1984) get the full treatment, mounted on small screens set into a dark wall. Each has an accompanying label that explains its history, while Pac-Man gets an additional display, called a distella map, of its original code. A neighbouring room featured Myst from 1993, Another World (1991) and Sims from 2000, the air filled with music from the games. The rarified atmosphere of the MoMA makes an unusual place to satisfy nostalgia for these video relics, but visitors can do just that – the museum has provided controllers, although there are headphones to keep the noise down.

But is it art – particularly in such a prestigious institution as the MoMA? Paola Antonelli, senior curator for the museum’s department of architecture and design, has no doubt. “The whole world has always believed that they were a form of art,” she said. “Frankly, I am not interested at all in the discussion about video games or even chairs being art. I find design one of the highest form of human creative expression and when something has great design that is more than enough.” That approach and the museum’s desire to expand its exhibits on interactive designs is what underlines the show, which took more than a year and a half to prepare and will be up until January 2014. MoMA chose the games from a multitude of candidates, studying their cultural significance, their aesthetic quality, but also hard to quantify attributes like ‘the elegance of the code.’ This is just the start for what MoMA hopes will be a 40-strong collection eventually. AFP

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PEOPLE 3

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

Shake, rattle and roll

Jody Houton meets Shakers’ Belgian owner Olivier Lambert Jody Houton editor3@thephuketnews.com

The main thing that separates me from the majority of farang here is that I met a Thai girl in Belgium. In fact she is still there, she owns a Thai restaurant. It’s quite funny because I am in Thailand running a Belgian restaurant

ike many of his compatriots, Belgian Olivier Lambert is in the food and beverage industry. The owner and manager of Shakers restaurant in Patong, Olivier has been coming to Thailand on and off for many years, but has been living in Phuket full-time for a

decade. He’s the first to admit that like many foreign males on the island, the reason he decided to move to the Land of Smiles in the first place was for a woman. “It’s quite funny though,” Olivier says with a wistful look in his eyes, “The main thing that separates me from the majority of farang here is that I met a Thai girl in Belgium. “In fact she is still there, she owns a Thai restaurant. It’s quite funny because I am in Thailand running a Belgian restaurant.” Olivier concedes that the majority of the fare on offer – including panini, pasta, pizza and kebabs – is more international dining, though he is proud of the range of Belgian beverages he serves. Open for seven years, Olivier admits that the average Shakers patron has changed in that relatively short time, with more people coming from China and Russia and fewer from Europe and Australia. “But every night I am full,” he says, “It’s good.” This is probably because little has changed inside the Patong restaurant over the years, with nightly themed cuisine, and live music every evening.

Patong itself, meanwhile, has seen huge changes, “They’re building everywhere, and it’s not for the good – like perhaps can be seen in the Laguna area with high-quality buildings. Here it’s cheap stuff, and we don’t have the infrastructure to support it.” When he’s not running his business, Olivier is also the GM of running group the Phuket Hash House Harriers (HHH) – better known by its slogan as a ‘Drinking Club with a Running Problem’. “I became GM this year, but sure it’s not for everybody. It’s open for everybody but it’s not for everybody,” he says, in reference to perhaps some of the more controversial, and less understandable elements, like new members having to drink out of their trainers. The HHH is so named as it resembles a social version of nature’s ‘game’ played by hares and hounds. Each and every week, a pack of hounds (runners) chases down a unique and different trail (usually denoted by flags) set by the hares (other runners). “I like the sport,” he says, “We start running at around 4pm, it lasts around 50 minutes, then we come back and rest for a little while, before we have the ‘Circle’. “Here we make fun out of people, make speeches and welcome new arrivals. These are called 'new virgins'.” Woe betide any new arrival who turns up on their virgin run wearing new shoes. They will invariably be asked to, rather humiliatingly, drink

Top and above: Olivier outside Shakers restaurant in Patong. from their sweaty shoe. It’s not all about the drinking though. “Hash is great,” says Lambert, “Because we always discover new places, beautiful places that I would never have been able to find without it.”

4 EDUCATION

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH MARCH 8,8,2013

BIS students to study on the job The ‘Approaches to Earning’ programme is designed to offer students the opportunity to gain a broader understanding of the world of work as part of their education,” said Bevin Clark, careers and college counsellor at BIS Phuket

or the first time, around 80 students from the British International School Phuket (BIS) will have a tangible idea of what it is like to work for a living, when for a week in June, students will be be placed in real workplaces. “The ‘Approaches to Earning’ programme is designed to offer students the opportunity to gain a broader understanding of the world of work as part of their education,” said Bevin Clark, careers and college counsellor at BIS Phuket. “We hope to provide the BIS Phuket students with a memorable and unique educational experience. We match students to companies or organisations as carefully as possible.” Mr Clark says that all of the 80 Year 10 students have now submitted their ‘wish list’ of careers they’re interested in exploring during their Work Experience Week, so now the challenge is to find placements so that the students can be offered their first choice of industry. “We are asking for help from the Phuket community to provide our students with interesting, enjoyable and challenging work placements. “We are seeking jobs for students at entry level in a wide variety of fields, including media and journalism, law, medicine and health, hotel management, hospitality and catering, engineering, architecture and interior design, product design, fashion design and retailing, marketing and public relations, teaching, fitness and sport, information technology, banking and finance, diplomacyand many more,” says Mr Clark. Likely activities that employers might engage

students with are writing articles, designing rooms, developing software programmes or designing a new publicity poster. Not to forget making the odd cup of tea. The BIS Phuket Approaches to Earning work experience week for Year 10 students (14 and 15 year olds) takes place from Monday June 10 through Friday June 14, 2013. Generally, a minimum of two students are placed per workplace. Organisations may accept larger numbers of students if they can be accommodated. If you have a workplace and could offer this experience to two or more Year 10 students from BIS Phuket, please contact Bevin Clark for more information (bclark@bisphuket.ac.th or phone 076 335 555). All participating organisations will be sent a copy of the ‘Approaches to

Earning’ Manual which outlines the school’s expectations of the students and provides some ideas which can be useful to employers in guiding the students successfully through the week. BIS Phuket carries accident insurance for the students whilst they are placed with their employers.

China boss orders staff to do daughter’s homework

Chinese boss ordered nine employees to do his 12-year-old daughter’s homework, a report said, as office tyranny meshed with a parent’s desire to see his child score well in the competitive school system. “The leader said, ‘Do some homework, it will be like practising’,” one of the suffering subordinates told the Qianjiang Evening News. The boss in the eastern city of Jinhua, whose name and organisation were not given, regularly asked workers to do maths problems and build small models, typically requiring two people to work overtime to finish the assignments. But over the Chinese New Year holiday, an assignment to show changes in

one’s home town required nine people to paint pictures, take photos, produce a video and write an essay. The employees said they tried to imitate the work of an elementary school student, making the quality lower than if adults had done it. One of them, a 35-year-old man surnamed Wang, said he put himself in the mind of a young girl to write the essay. “I forced myself into an imaginary state,” he said. The report did not mention any repercussions for the child or her father. But one teacher told the newspaper, “This has completely deviated from the original intent (of the assignment).” AFP

COMPUTER LOVING Autcharawan Pratumwan (Managing Director, Island Technology) donates a laptop to Tina Hall (Director of Operations, Phuket Has Been Good to Us Foundation) on February 22.

HEALTH 5

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

Jaded rock god wakes up to life Jody Houton editor3@thephuketnews.com

I’ve forgotten a lot of the places I have visited,” says Gavrilovic with that conspirational laugh again, before continuing in a slightly more serious tone. Slightly. “I remember finding out that we were going to be playing in a bull ring and I said ‘Bull ring? That’s cool!’ Somebody said, ‘We’ve played there before – last week’”

Above right: Hayden Rhodes (red shirt), functional diagnostic nutritionist to Placebo guitarist Nick Gavrilovic.

ick Gavrilovic is going on 31, but says until recently he felt more like 61. The Guitarist with British rock band Placebo tells The Phuket News that this is due to a lifestyle he has ‘enjoyed’ all his life. “My mother worked in a pub and my father has always been in the music business, so I’ve always had that around me,” says Gavrilovic, referring to the heady mix of drink and rock ‘n’ roll. “The people with long hair were always the men in the family, so I’m not sure what that did to my upbringing,” Gavrilovic adds, with a hesitant laugh. It’s the first of many that occur throughout the interview, when he reveals perhaps a little too much about himself and self-consciously brings it back to a humorous and self deprecating standpoint. Because after all, binge drinking, smoking, dabbling in drugs and having a rollicking good time is just part and parcel of being a real man in England, especially an English male rock musician. Right lads? Well, unfortunately, it does actually appear to be that way, with over 100,000 British men dying prematurely in the UK every year. Overeating, drinking too much, smoking and a lack of exercise all contribute to, what is overall, a pretty poor level of health for the average British male. There is also, importantly, a British equation of hedonism with masculinity, with the expectation for rock gods to be somewhat superhuman beings, our alter egos capable of living life to the fullest. “When I began, I was a kid touring around the world. There were girls and I had a pocketful of cash,” says the Placebo guitarist. From his teenage years up until a few weeks ago, he did what every English rock musician is expected to – lead a rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle, from gig to pub to hotel room, to airport to gig to pub. “I never used to leave the hotel room during the day, I hated the sunlight,” says Gavrilovic. “I used to say, ‘I’m wearing jeans that are five times too small and Cuban heels, I’m not going walking... Forget that!’” As such, Gavrilovic would leave the hotel curtains closed and rarely ventured out, except at night. “I’ve forgotten a lot of the places I have visited,” says Gavrilovic with that conspirational laugh again, before continuing in a slightly more serious tone. Slightly. “I remember finding out that we were going to be playing in a bull ring and I said ‘Bull ring? That’s cool!’ Somebody said, ‘We’ve played there before – last week.’” This proved to be one of many such episodes that led to him to seek an alternative to the way he lives. “I came to Bangkok in October to write music and lyrics with an artist and I think during the writing process I was drinking a little too much. “I was supposed to be staying for just three months, but I knew that if I went back to the UK when I was supposed to, I’d be going straight to the pub and wait there until the next gig. I’d probably end up in hospital.” So Gavrilovic called Hayden Rhodes, the health club manager at Royal Phuket Marina – who in the

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capacity of lifestyle coach has toured with Placebo for the last three years – to ask whether he could come to Phuket to spend a month with him. However, at least to begin with, making the necessary life changes was easier said than done. “At first everything Hayden was saying I just thought was hippy BS.” However, through living with somebody who approaches and enjoys life in a vastly different manner, many of Hayden’s positive habits began to slowly and gradually rub off. “Through talking with Hayden I realise now that exercise has an impact in what I’m feeling. “I used to think exercise was going to the gym, lifting as much as possible and then going to drink as much beer as

possible. “Same as eating, I used to think ’What I’m eating is having an impact on how I’m feeling? What BS. but I realise now that it does.” So now Gavrilovic rarely drinks, eats the right food, quit smoking (the announcement of which on his Facebook account, he says, resulted in the loss of 50 followers) and wakes up early. “The mornings are great!,” says the man who used to sleep through the entire day. “I’m actually enjoying touring much more now, and am noticing more now. There’s lots of beautiful women around the world you know. “I have been hiding away, what’s that all about?”

6 ENVIRONMENT

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FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH MARCH 8,8,2013

There’s no cost to compost Kevin Shupe editor3@thephuketnews.com

Upon reading the recent Phuket News article “Are we all just wasting our Phuket time?”, about a possible mass compost scheme on the island, reader Kevin Shupe got quite excited. As an avid composter himself, Kevin felt a certain level of sympathy for what he saw as people’s disinterest in speaker Martin Hauke’s plans, so he wrote a reply in the online comments. We contacted Kevin and asked him to go into detail about what he does and why he does it. This is his compost story.

have a compost heap and I’ve been thinking about what I have to do in order to compost for our house. The more I think about it, the more I realise most people living here won’t do it. I’m not judging them, but when a large majority of people are interested in expensive import cars, trophy wives, luxurious houses, designer clothes and the latest smartphone, I just don’t think many of them are going to take their kitchen scraps out into their carefully manicured yards. I would really love it if everyone proved me wrong, but I just don’t see it happening. I’ve had friends say, “Oh you compost, I’ve thought about composting.” But from everyone that I’ve met in my five years on Phuket, only one coworker started composting. I’m not sure if he still does it anymore. I think it’s quite easy to do though. Most everyone knows where to put their trash. Now it’s time to move on to recyclables and then hopefully one day their kitchen scraps. I’ve seen a few new recycling centres open over the years, I’m just hoping now that Martin Hauke’s plan comes to fruition, and Phuket starts its own island-wide composting programme. After all, it’s not impossible. I grew up watching my parents compost in Dallas, Texas. We lived in the countryside and my father built a large compost bin out of four posts and chicken wire. He would put all the grass cuttings into the bin once a week. Mom kept a lidded bucket in the kitchen for the scraps and my job was to take the bucket out when it got full. One thing I couldn’t get over was how high a compost heap could get by the time autumn came around

Pet

of the week

his beautiful dog, Tohlap, belongs to Bebe, the manager of Patong Language School. Tohlap’s a Havanese cross and he’s 13 years old. He’s a real character, he spends almost 24 hours a day with Bebe, accompanying her to work and to restaurants, and he’s very protective of her. Everyone at Patong Language School knows him and he is totally spoilt and doted on. Bebe says, “We first met on January 7, 13 years ago. Since then we have stayed together for almost 365 days every year. It is hard to tell one specific story about him because there are so many. But all I’ll say is that we love each other very much, more than words can explain.” Want to see your pet here? Email your photo to editor1@thephuketnews.com

and how compact it would be within a few months. This went on my entire childhood. After university I lived in South Korea where all kitchen scraps are required to be sorted, so the local government can compost the waste. You had to pay for the bags which then funded the government programme to pick up the bags of scraps. Once I moved to Phuket and got a place of my own I decided I’d follow my parents lead and start composting near the house. I didn’t have the money to buy or build my own compost bin. I didn’t even own a single tool. So I began composting the grass cuttings and leaves. It was very easy. I just made a pile in an unseen corner of the yard. I didn’t mix in any kitchen scraps because at the time we didn’t have anything to cook with. Once we started cooking, I started placing the kitchen scraps at the bottom of the pile and turning it about once a month. Later we moved out to a place with a bigger yard. We also started cooking a lot more which meant I had a lot more to compost. But what to do? I knew a lot of kitchen scraps could create a foul smell and attract rats. Instead of creating a compost pile, I decided to create a compost hole. The idea was to mix in the local dirt with the compost to minimise the smell. The idea worked like a charm and over time the hole got wider and wider. It’s now around a metre wide and about 30 cm deep. At least once a week, I take a five gallon bucket full of kitchen scraps out to the heap. We have a juicer and go through several kilos of produce each week. I also rip up cardboard boxes which adds to the volume that has to be taken out, so it’s not like we’re gorging ourselves on food with enough scraps to feed a village. Personally, I don’t want a smelly compost heap that attracts any sort of pest or vermin. So it’s important not to put meat, dairy or oil in the compost.

Top: Kevin and his mulch. Above: Kevin’s compost. We feed our meat scraps to the dog. For oil, I like to pour it out where I want a hole dug. The next day, I’ll let the dog go buck wild digging and snorting where the oil was poured. He seems to like it and I get a little extra work done without lifting a finger. We don’t use a lot of dairy, but if we have something that goes bad, I usually bury it. About once a year, I’ll use the compost in a new or old garden around the house. I get a kick out of it because it’s free and I know for certain that I’ve made the dirt around the house a bit better. Keep in mind the dirt around the house was horrible to begin with. The closer you get to the house the more buried refuse you’ll find. Since gardens are usually alongside the house, that’s one place you’ll want to dig down and remove what rocks and trash you can find. Mixing in the compost as you do this is a great way to give your soil a major boost in nutrients when you start your next garden. We live on a hill and the back yard is a downward slope. Some of the ruts were so bad when we first moved in that I avoided the backyard for a long time. Not so any more. The backyard is one of my pride and joys as we now have coconut and mango trees grown from sprouting coconuts and left over mango seeds. We’re also growing pineapples from old pineapple tops and banana trees from cuttings. Free food is the best kind of food.

WEIRD WORLD 7

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THE BIG LIST Famous killer robots The robot armies of the future face big expectations. Robots are already used for everything from building cars to exploring Mars, but science fiction writers have long noted their potential as merciliess mechanical soldiers. Here are a few of the better-known killer robots: Gort: The giant metal robot Gort accompanied Klaatu, a visitor to Earth from a distant planet, on board a flying saucer in the 1951 movie The Day the Earth Stood Still (remade in 2008 with robot-like actor Keanu Reeves). Robots like Gort, explained Klaatu, have the authority of an interstellar police force: “There’s no limit to what Gort could do. He could destroy the Earth.” Fortunately Gort responds to the command “Klaatu barada nikto” before carrying out this threat. The Daleks: A lthough not technically robots, because they enclose the bodies of mutant extraterrestrial Kaleds from the planet Skaro, the Daleks – first seen in the British TV series Dr Who in the 1960s – display such machine-like dedication and lack of compassion that they should serve as an inspiration for the killer robot armies of the future. Exterminate! Exterminate! We stworld’s Robot Model 406: The menacing gunslinger robot from Michael Crichton’s 1976 movie Westworld, played by Yul Brynner, foreshadowed the much later Terminator in its single-minded pursuit of human victims. A stock character at an adult-entertainment theme park called Delos, the expressionless robot gunslinger let theme-park guests kill him in shooting matches, but had his revenge when the theme park computers went haywire. Robocop’s ED209: The Enforcement Droid Series 209 robot – seen in the Robocop movie series – was heralded as “a selfsufficient, law-enforcement robot” for the purposes of “urban pacification.” Things started to go terribly wrong during the boardroom product launch, when the ED-209 mistakenly uses its miniguns to obliterate an unfortunate corporate executive. T-800 Terminator: The Cyberdyne Systems model T-800 cyborg, which first appeared in The Terminator in 1984, was an early attempt by the killer robot overlords of the future to meddle with the late 20th Century. Played in the movie by Arnold Schwarzenegger (as the human form housing the metal killing machine) the original T-800 was soon followed by even tougher robot assassins.

‘Stop Killer Robots’

new global campaign warns of the dangers of “autonomous weapons” – aka killer robot drones – which could soon present an international threat. Academics, activists and Nobel peace laureates have joined the call to ban the “killer robots” before they go into production. Weaponised robots – such as flying Predator drones armed with Hellfire missiles – are already in use by the US and other militaries. But the decision to use their weapons remains, for now, under human control. The next stage will be to give robots the power to decide if they should attack with their weaponry – the advent of a new age of robot warfare, a development foretold in science fiction movies like The Terminator. Dr Noel Sharkey, a robotics professor at Sheffield University,

says robot warfare and autonomous weapons will be ready within the decade. “These things are not science fiction; they are well into development,” said Dr Sharkey, one of the campaigners calling for a global ban on killer bots. He warned the new killer ro-

bots were being developed without any international oversight. “The public is not being invited to have a view on the morals of all of this. We won’t hear about it until China has sold theirs to Iran. That’s why we are forming this campaign to look at a pre-emptive ban.” (Image: Stephen Bowler)

Burning man mystery stumps sheriff

olice in the United States called to a fire at a rural house think a man who died in the flames may have spontaneously combusted. Houseowner Danny Vanzandt, 66, was reported dead after the blaze in Sequoyah County, Oklahoma late last month. Sheriff Ron Lockhart says neighbours entered Vanzandt’s house when they saw smoke and assumed some trash had caught fire. But when they got inside they saw that Mr Vanzandt himself was on fire. Sheriff Lockhart said the dead man’s remains were found in the kitchen. There was no other damage to the house, and no apparent source of fire. “This is a case that I’ve never seen before,” Sheriff Lockhart told a local

Dead bodies stolen for ‘ghost brides’ in China

our people have been jailed in China for digging up corpses to sell as brides for traditional “ghost marriages” – where dead single men are buried with a wife for the afterlife – according to Chinese news reports. While the practice of ghost marriages is increasingly rare, it is still followed by some families whose young adult sons have passed away before having a chance to wed. Normally the ghost marriage is agreed between the families of the dead, often for a fee. But the Xian Evening News said the group of four men “stole female

corpses and after cleaning them, fabricated medical files for the deceased and sold them for a high price.” Last week, a court in the northern province of Shaanxi sentenced the four grave-robbers to between 28 and 32 months in jail. The court said the grave-robbers had taken advantage of the “bad tradition” of ghost marriages in parts of Shaanxi and neighbouring Shanxi province, southwest of Beijing. News reports said the gang made a total of 240,000 yuan (B7.2 million) from the sale of 10 stolen corpses. AFP

television station. “There was no damage to the furniture or anything around the fire, so it was a low heat fire,” he told the station. No cause has been determined and Sheriff Lockhart says spontaneous combustion has not been ruled out. “I think there’s only about 200 cases worldwide, and I’m not saying this happened. I’m just saying that we haven’t ruled it out,” the Sheriff told reporters. He said the victim’s may have burned for 10 hours: “The body is burned, incinerated, like I’ve never seen before and it’s some kind of chemical reaction or something the way I can see it.” The victim was an alcoholic and an avid smoker, factors that may have contributed to the body blaze.

8 DINING

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FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH MARCH 8,8,2013

Immigrant tastes: o tao Naraporn Tuarob reporter1@thephuketnews.com

The ingredients are quite simple: Boiled taro, flour, garlic, egg, ground dried chilli, dried fried onion, dried pork crackling, small oysters (which can be replaced with other seafood), and soy sauce

hen you ask most people what sums up Phuket, they’ll invariably come up with the triumvirate of sun, sea and sand. However, one of the island’s other unique charms is its food. Like much of the island’s immigrant population, many of Phuket’s most loved traditional foods are actually Hokkien in origin, coming from the Fujian province in south-east China. Large numbers of Chinese settled in Phuket Town and Kathu during the tin mining heyday of the 1850s to 1950s, which means a lot of local food has a distinct Hokkien flavour to it. O tao is one of the most famous. Once scarce on the island, o tao has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years (maybe due to its great taste) and there are now at least seven vendors on the island. The ingredients are quite simple: Boiled taro, flour, garlic, egg, ground dried chilli, dried fried onion, dried pork crackling, small oysters (which can also be replaced with other seafood), and soy sauce. The ingredients are all blended together and fried until they are perfectly mixed up, and by the end resemble a scrambled egg-looking type dish. O tao is traditionally eaten during Chinese New Year for good luck, as well as during funerals. The theory behind the latter tradition is that if a family eats o tao (a sticky savoury dish) together, it will strengthen

their family bond and help them cope with the loss. Driving past Bang Niew School in Phuket Town, it is a common sight to see one of the o tao vendors, 43-year-old Sondhaya Mitrmuang or “Ya”, selling her beloved dish to locals. Ya is a second generation o tao seller – she’s been selling it for around 30 years since her father first started up the stand. As well as keeping her busy, making o tao is also extremely profitable. She usually makes a profit of B3,000 per day, and the figure can be far more in high season. Ya serves her o tao, garnished with the pork crackling and pepper, in a banana leaf, because she believes it makes the food smell better. It also keep the food warm for longer. If you dine at Ya’s, you can either sit at her makeshift restaurant, which is on Phuket Rd, or you can take it home. The dish starts at B35, with small oysters, however other seafood options (prawn or squid) are B50. Ya sells between 300-400 dishes of o tao every day to locals, but her most prized delivery was when Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn visited Phuket and purchased o tao from her. “I was full of pride that the princess ate the dish I made,” she said. Ya’s stall is open daily on Phuket Rd in front of Bang Niew School, from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. She also does event catering. For more details contact her on 083 104 3558.

Top, the famous Phuket “o tao”. Above, Ya, far left, is famous in Phuket for her take on the Hokkien dish.

Gordon Ramsay off the menu at Claridge’s hotel in London

ritish celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay has received a blow after it was announced his restaurant at top London hotel Claridge’s will be closing after more than a decade. Ramsay was one of the first of a series of exciting new chefs to bring innovation and a sprinkling of stardust to the London hotel restaurant scene when he won the Claridge’s contract in 2001. The restaurant received rave reviews when it opened, but in recent years the praise has been lukewarm and in 2010 it lost its Michelin star. Last year, Claridge’s hosted a pop-up version of Noma, the Danish restaurant currently ranked the world’s best.

Despite the Claridge’s setback, Ramsay insists his restaurant empire is back on track after a rocky few years when he had a public falling-out with his father-in-law and business partner. After the Claridge’s closure, the chef will still be operating 26 restaurants around the world including in Tokyo, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and the Qatari capital Doha, although his presence in top London hotels will be limited to the Savoy. Ramsay, 46, continues to enjoy success on US television in shows in which he seeks to turn around failing restaurants. AFP

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM MARCH 8, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013 FRIDAY,List your restaurant here: call 076 612 550 or email sales@thephuketnews.com

DINING GUIDE 9

EUROPEAN

INTERNATIONAL

ITALIAN

SEAFOOD

Bodega & Grill

Weaves Restaurant

Acqua

Trisara Seafood

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

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

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

Mom Tri’s Villa Royale

Irish Times

Art Caffè

RE KÁ TA Beach Club

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

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 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

Tablespoon Salad & Grill

Super Natural

DaVinci

Baan Kalim Restaurant & Seafood

Discover newest stylish restaurant in modern vintage setting. Creative and unique salad and grill menus are served while you experience a delectable dining in romantic and intimate atmosphere with a reasonable price tag. Open 11am-10pm. 2nd Floor, HomePro Village, Chalong; 076 383 244

Super Food deserves a Super Location. SuperNatural and more. The only waterfront restaurant in Phuket serving exciting raw vegetarian cuisine in addition to our delicious seafood, Thai and International menu. Great selection of fresh to order juices & smoothies, as well as great wines and chilled beers. Open 365 days a year. Facebook Supernatural -Phuket, 2.5km south of Chalong Circle.

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

FRENCH

The Bistro Restaurant

Diavolo

THAI

Breeze Restaurant

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

Tre by DoublePool Villas

Navrang Mahal

Tamarind Restaurant

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

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. 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

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

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

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

10 TRAVEL

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH MARCH 8,8,2013

Uncomfortable tourism in Mae Hong Son Alasdair Forbes execeditor@thephuketnews.com

The women spend all day sitting at small stalls selling pretty much identical souvenirs, the kind of souvenirs that, when you get them home you wonder, ‘What on earth possessed me to buy that?’

isiting one of the Long-neck Karen villages along the Thai border with Mynamar is one of those “examine your conscience” trips, like deciding whether to go to Myanmar 10 years ago, or whether to pay to hug a tiger in the growing number of tigerhugging places in northern Thailand. The Long-neck Karen – the Kayan use their own name for their tribe – are refugees from Myanmar. Some crossed over the border as long as 20 years ago, fleeing dreadful treatment at the hands of the Burmese army. Many were born in Thailand, but have never been granted citizenship. The UNHCR once offered to help find them third countries to live in but Thailand insisted they were “economic migrants” and therefore not eligible. Dark hands, it is said, were at work behind the political scene – people who were making a fat profit from creating “traditional Kayan villages” and charging tourists

to go in and gawk. Whatever the truth, close to Mae Hong Son there is one such cluster of “villages” housing not only Kayan but other hilltribes people. It costs B500 a head to go in and frankly, although it might be a ‘must see’, it’s rather sad. The women spend all day sitting at small stalls selling pretty much identical souvenirs, the kind of souvenirs that, when you get them home you wonder, “What on earth possessed me to buy that?” Some work at looms producing complex check-pattern cloth. Others have learned to play guitar and sing. You can buy CDs of them listlessly singing Western pop songs with Kayan lyrics. All of this has been described as a sort of human zoo. Which on one level it is. On another level, it’s a refuge. As one Kayan woman explained (probably for the millionth time), it was better than being beaten, used as a human mine-detector, raped or killed, or all of the above – all real concerns in Myanmar until very recently, perhaps even now. The overall feeling one gets from the women in the village is, “I know I have to put myself on display, but after years of doing this I’m damned if I’ll do more than the bare minimum for these gawkers.” The smiles are thin, there is no animated chatting, no giggling. Maybe these are reserved for after hours. Not all Kayan women wear the neck coils. Who does and who doesn’t is apparently decided by the auspiciousness of the day and date they were born. One fiveyear-old we met (one of the few Kayan who did giggle) wears a coil. Her mother does not. The neck, of course, does not actually grow. Rather, the gradual lengthening of the brass coil over the years gradually pushes the collar bones down, shortening the body. Thoughts inevitably cross one’s mind: “How do you get your neck clean? How do you scratch an itch?” Some will tell you that the rings can never be taken off because the neck muscles are not strong enough to support the head. This is not true. Among the souvenirs for sale are photographs of Kayan women without their neck coils. Looking at these photos adds another layer of guilty discomfort. Seeing the long bare neck has a faint whiff of pornography about it, as if they have taken their shirts off for the amusement of tourists. How this form of bizarre adornment began is not clear. But the Kayan men apparently regard women with neck coils as desirable. Which in itself is bizarre. But when you think of it, is it any more bizarre than having one’s breasts surgically slit open so that bags of silicone can be inserted?

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

BOOKS 11

An absolute must-read

Alasdair Forbes reviews Colin Mackay’s rollicking history of Phuket Alasdair Forbes execeditor@thephuketnews.com

In his preface Mackay quotes Immanual Kant: “From the crooked timbers of humanity no straight thing shall come.” The figures in the history of the island, some of them carved from very crooked timber indeed, provide all the twists one could wish for

Copies of ‘A History of Phuket and the Surrounding Region’ are available from the Surin Bay Inn, Lady Pie, Woody’s Sandwich Shoppes and Gitano, along with various book stores around the island. For a full list of stockists visit: historyofphuket.com

irst, a declaration of interest: I ambergris (found lying around on the edited an early version of Colin beaches), tigers, elephants and many Mackay’s A History of Phuket other animals that could be turned into and the Surrounding Region. I valuable products; and as a convenient thought then that it was an exbase for crossing the Isthmus of Kra cellent piece of work. The final and from there trading with China – product is just plain superb. resulted in it being fought over again Mackay spent five or six and again. Usually those who suffered years researching the book, unearthmost were the islanders. ing memoirs, official documents, love The history itself is colourful and viletters and even an epic poem, in Thai, olent enough to make good reading, but English, Dutch, Russian, German, Porwhat raises this book a very significant tuguese, French, Danish, Malay and notch is the way it’s told. more languages. He has had to travel Mackay, as anyone who knows him across half the globe to find them. will attest, is a delightful and robust He is particularly proud of the bibraconteur. A History of Phuket is his liography – more than 400 sources are finest yarn so far. It’s not just the stolisted – which he believes is the “really ries he tells – it’s the way he tells ’em. valuable thing about this book”. For example, there’s a chapter on He still sees it primarily as a scholthe introduction of rubber. Rubber arly academic work – and it is that. But trees were native to the Amazon rainit is much more. It’s a rollicking, swashforest and anyone found smuggling buckling read, full of pirates, the roar rubber seeds out of Brazil faced the of guns, smuggling and skullduggery death penalty. and a huge cast of characters, most of A British character called Henry whom are quite dreadful people. Wickham, however, managed to smugIf at times it reads like a novel, the gle some seeds out. Mackay writes, structure is absolutely conventional, Author Colin Mackay with his new book, A History of Phuket. “The romantic story goes that he hid starting with prehistory and moving them in the heels of his shoes, but given through 38 chapters to modern times. This is a history book, so there that a rubber seed is roughly the size of a large grape, and that he are no plot twists. brought our some 70,000 seeds, he must have worn a suspiciously coIt doesn’t need them anyway. In his preface Mackay quotes Imlossal pair of shoes as he walked past the Brazilian port guards.” manual Kant: “From the crooked timbers of humanity no straight There are many tales that are just plain funny in their own right, thing shall come.” The figures in the history of the island, some of such as the attempted annexation of Phuket by a French admiral in them carved from very crooked timber indeed, provide all the twists the late 17th Century. one could wish for. His small fleet reached Phuket by trial and error (they had to ask Mackay has unearthed parts of history that were hitherto unthe way of local people on other islands) to find no one home – the known, and thrown light on others that were ignored in much of ofPhuketians had done their usual trick of running away or hiding ficial history and unknown to most people. whenever they spotted a threatening sail. For example, there was the aftermath of the Battle of Thalang; the The French sat at anchor for months. Finally a resupply ship was island left devastated and depopulated for years, or the Burmese insent, but after sailing around in circles, failed to find the fleet, and vasion 25 years later, when the fort in Thalang that was so valiantly went back home again to Pondicherry in India. defended by the Heroines, Chan and Mook, was utterly destroyed and The invasion fleet, after six months of sitting “... on their hot dank the island again made uninhabitable. ships through the rainy season with no one to attack” gave up and He quotes a Malay saga which tells how, after that victory, the went back to India. Burmese slaughtered or carried off the population and the livestock, More modern history is no less fascinating. Phuket was the scene and even “... uprooted all the chili plants … heaped them together and of naval action in World War II. The last successful kamikaze attack burnt them...” And the Burmese came back again in 1818. took place off that most popular sunset spot, Cape Phrom Thep, reHe explains how various colonial powers coveted the island and sulting in the sinking of HMS Vestal, now a popular dive site. attempted to take it, how Phuket once had a French governor (the The book is broad in its sweep, taking in events in Keddah, PenFrench built the famed fort), and how the British East Indian Comang, Ayutthaya, Bangkok and across the world, all of which informed pany plotted for years to take it before finally settling on Penang. or influenced events on Phuket. This broad approach makes the hisThe last colonial claim on Phuket was just 68 years ago, when tory of this island so much more easy to grasp. Britain demanded the entire west coast of peninsular Thailand – inThis is a fine book, and a must-read for anyone on the island who cluding the island – as part of reparations for Bangkok siding with has ever ventured outside the hallowed halls of Bangla Rd. Buy it. Japan in World War II. (The Americans told London not to be silly). Phuket’s strategic desirability – as a base on the east coast of the A History of Phuket and the Surrounding Region, publisher White LoBay of Bengal; as a source of tin (found lying around on the ground), tus. 438 pp, illustrated. B1,500.

12 TECHNOLOGY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH MARCH 8,8,2013

IN BRIEF No ‘Castlevania’ for Wii U

Citing budget constraints, Konami producer Dave Cox announced last week that Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2 will not be made for Nintendo’s Wii U. The game is scheduled for release later this year for the PC, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3. The news comes as a shock since the first Castlevania was originally released on the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1986. “It would be a distraction to have to do a port to another system at this point,” Cox said.

Details leak about ‘Assassin’s Creed IV’

Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag will take place in the Caribbean islands with an “occasional” pirate as the title character, according to published reports. The main character is reported to be Edward Kenway, father of Haytham Kenway from the previous Assassin’s Creed III. The game is said to take place on islands that include Jamaica, Cuba, and the Bahamas. The game is not due to be released until 2014, which means it is most likely being developed for the next generation consoles expected to be released later this year.

Kickstarter funds its first Oscar winner

The fundraising website Kickstarter hit a new height when the f ilm Inocente took home the Oscar for best short documentary at last week’s Academy Awards. T he f ilm, about a 15-year-old California girl chasing her dream of becoming an artist, raised US$52,527 (B1.5 million) with the help of 294 backers on Kickstarter from June to July of 2012.

Tetris

BLAST FROM THE PAST

Great week for Google: D Glass and Chromebook

Jean-Pierre Mestanza editor@thephuketnews.com

ech giant Google hogged the headlines this past week as it released the Chromebook Pixel laptop and revealed details of its latest gadget in development, Google Glass. The Chromebook Pixel runs on the company’s Chrome operating system. It has an Intel Core i5 processor, 32GB of storage, and a 239 pixels-per-inch resolution display, which delivers the sharpest image of any consumer laptop currently on the market. At US$1299 (B39,000) the device is evenly priced with some versions of the Macbook Pro, its direct competitor, and also has similar touchpad capabilities (zoom, one-touch click, etc.) A second version of the Chromebook Pixel will be released in April with double the storage and better wireless capabilities, with a price tag of US$1449 (B45,000). Google has also created new buzz about its Google Glass device, a face-mounted display that looks a bit like a pair of glasses, which can connect wirelessly to an Android smartphone to take pictures, record video, make phone calls and use the internet using voice commands. The company has invited the public to send in suggestions about how they might use Google Glass,

Clockwise from top left: Google founder Sergey Brin wearing the Google Glass device; the device overlays an interactive display over the wearer’s view. Google’s new Chromebook Pixel notebook, which delivers the sharpest image of any consumer laptop. in a competition to test one of the devices out. People were asked to deliver their suggestions on Twitter, using the hashtag #ifihadaglass. Although Google Glass is only being sold to chosen early adopters at the moment, at a price of US$1,500 (B46,500), Google has opened up additional pre-orders for the device and it is expected to be released to the public by the end of 2013.

Next from YouTube: YouPay?

hanges to the code of a YouTube mobile app update, released last week, suggest that Google could be working on a pay-to-view system for their video website. Google, which owns YouTube, updated the code to allow users to subscribe to paid channels – although no details of the new service are known. It was reported in January that Google had been in talks with several channel producers, to determine which channels would be included in a test run of the pay-to-view service. It’s thought the pay-to-view channel subscriptions will cost between US$1 (B31) to US$5 (B155) a month to view. “We have long maintained that different content required different types of payment models,”

a YouTube rep told reporters in January. “The important thing is that, regardless of the model, our creators succeed on the platform.” The changes to the mobile app come after news broke that Google was discussing the possibility of its own music streaming service with record labels.

TOP APPS THIS WEEK

TOP CONSOLE GAMES THIS WEEK 1

Crysis 3

Xbox 360, PS3, PC

Dead Space 3 (+18)

Xbox 360, PS3, PC

Curiosity

iOS

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance (+18)

PS3, Xbox 360

Far Cry 3 (+18)

Xbox 360, PS3, PC

Draw Something

Android

Fifa 13

Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, Vita

Need For Speed Most Wanted

Xbox 360, PS3, Vita, PC

Plaque Inc.

iOS, Android

Call Of Duty: Black Ops II (+18)

Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U, PC

Assassin’s Creed III (+18)

Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U

Horn

iOS

Aliens: Colonel Marines (+18)

Xbox 360, PS3, PC

10 Hitman Absolution (+18)

Xbox 360, PS 3, PC

Waking Mars

Android

o you remember Tetris? Of course you do. Not only is Tetris the most addictive game ever made (keyword: ‘is’), but its origins predate the creation of the computer. Tetris is a take on the tetrominoes puzzle, which is itself a version of geometric puzzles that date back centuries. In 1984, Russian programmer Alexey Pajitnov, at the USSR’s Academy of Sciences, adapted the idea into a simple game on an early Soviet minicomputer. Pajitnov called it Tetris, combining the words “tetromino” and “tennis”, his favorite sport. The game was ported to the IBM-PC (pictured above), and quickly grew in popularity in Moscow and around Europe. By 1988, it had won the “Game of the Year” award in Japan for the Sega arcade version – a remarkable achievement considering it had been released just two months earlier. The most memorable version of the game may be the one for the original Game Boy, with its famous tune that ranks up there with the Super Mario Bros., Pac Man, Legend of Zelda, and Guile’s stage on Street Fighter II as an iconic video game song. Tetris is even credited with helping to reduce the flashbacks experienced in cases of post-traumatic stress, according to a 2009 study at Oxford University. This simple play involving seven geometric figures is timeless, and will undoubtedly continue to have newer versions made for every console imaginable for years to come. One for the ages, you might say.

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

FILM 13

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

IN BRIEF

French actor Omar Sy joins ‘X-Men’

Flight

Crash and burn

FILM REVIEW Tom Metcalfe editor2@thephuketnews.com

DIRECTOR Robert Zemeckis STARRING Denzel Washington Don Cheadle John Goodman Kelly Reilly RUNNING TIME 138 minutes

light marks a return to live action film for director Robert Zemeckis, after almost a decade spent making purely digital cinema, with films like Polar Express and Beowulf. That said, even in his live action movies, such as Castaway and Forest Gump, special effects have always been a key part of Zemeckis’ repertoire, and in this Flight does not disappoint. But after a great take-off, Flight gets seriously grounded in the second half, becoming increasingly sombre and overtly religious to an almost ridiculous degree. Denzel Washington plays airline pilot Whip Whitaker, a heavy drinker and drug user. He wakes in a hotel room on the morning of a flight, surrounded by booze bottles, lines of cocaine, and a half-naked member of his crew. After reviving himself by finishing the coke, he’s off to work. It turns out to be a hell of a day: part way through the flight, the aircraft goes into a sudden dive. Whip manages to take control as the jet powers towards the ground – and the action sequence that follows makes the plane crash in Castaway seem almost pedestrian. It’s safe to say you won’t be watching Flight as an in-flight movie. But the story goes down with the aircraft – moments before impact, one of the wing tips

grazes a church steeple, where churchgoers are gathering for a baptism ceremony. The scene where the white-robed church members pull survivors from the wreck is the next example of religious heavy-handedness: a big deal is made later about the insurance term “Act of God”, and in case we still haven’t got the message, “God” is cited as possible cause of the accident by an official inquiry. Whip tries to sober up to impress the inquiry, aided by a sympathetic company lawyer (Don Cheadle), but he repeatedly falls off the wagon, thanks to his drug dealer friend (John Goodman). To eradicate any doubt about what these characters represent, Goodman makes his entrance to the tune of “Sympathy for the Devil.” There’s also Whip’s new girlfriend, a recovering addict (Kelly Reilly), whose story arc amounts to being just one more damned soul. The movie’s climax is a predictable testament to the power of confession – mirroring Whip’s inability to face up to addiction at his Alcoholics Anonymous meetings – and the resulting warm feelings of redemption. In these last scenes Flight lifts off again, if only for few minutes, thanks to a powerful performance from Academy Award winner Washington. But it’s too bad Zemeckis didn’t pay more attention to his story, and not just his message.

Chan’s China appointment draws online kicks

ong Kong action star Jackie Chan this week joined China’s top political advisory body in a move analysts say highlights Beijing’s growing “soft power” efforts to project unity with the former British colony. But the 58-year-old actor, famous in the West for Rush Hour and Police Story, faces a backlash in his hometown, where the mainland is viewed with increasing suspicion. Professor Sonny Ho, co-director at the Centre for Greater China Studies, says Chan was selected to appear at the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) because his stardom could help promote ties. “Jackie Chan is acting under the soft power and united front of the PRC [mainland] government,” he said. The

“united front” strategy, Ho said, was a campaign to promote a strong and peaceful China, unified with Taiwan. Chan’s appointment to the CPPCC was met with derision online in Hong Kong, where Chan’s reputation has already nosedived in recent years over what are seen as pro-Beijing statements, such as calling for limits on the right to protest. “Yet another movie star turns into a CPPCC member. Since when did this negative social trend become so popular?” one user posted on the Sina Weibo microblog site. “Sure, add another big dope to a veritable congregation of big dopes,” ‘ianson’ commented on the website of the South China Morning Post newspaper.

SFX Coliseum Phuket (Central Festival) A Good Day To Die Hard (E) [15+] A Good Day To Die Hard (T) [15+] Beautiful Creatures (E) [15+] Beautiful Creatures (T) [15+] Jack The Giant Slayer (E) [G] Jack The Giant Slayer (E/3D) [G] Jack The Giant Slayer (E/F) [G] Jack The Giant Slayer (T) [G] Warm Bodies (E) [15+]

13:40, 17:50, 22:00 11:35, 15:45, 19:55 11:30, 14:00, 16:30, 19:00, 21:30 12:45, 20:00 11:40, 14:10, 16:40, 19:10, 21:40 12:10, 14:40, 17:10, 19:40, 22:10 13:10, 15:40, 18:10, 20:40 11:10, 13:40, 15:15, 16:10, 18:40, 21:10 10:50, 17:50, 22:30

French actor Omar Sy, who won praise for his role in The Intouchables, has been added to the star-studded cast of the next X-Men movie. X-Men: Days of Future Past – a followup to the 2011 reboot X-Men First Class, already boasts best actress Oscar winner Jennifer Lawrence, Hugh Jackman, Michael Fassbender, Ian MacKellen and Patrick Stewart among the cast. Sy’s role has not yet been specified. The film is set for release in July 2014.

‘Today’ takes top prize at African film festival

A French-Senegalese director’s film about a man who knows he will die at the end of the day took the top prize at Africa’s largest film festival, Fespaco in Burkina Faso. Aujourd’hui (Today) by director Alain Gomis follows Satche, played by American hip-hop musician Saul Williams, on what he and those close to him somehow know will be the last day of his life. Almost 170 films from all over Africa were shown during the week-long bi-annual festival, which was founded in 1969.

‘Jack’ slays North American box office

The action-adventure Jack the Giant Slayer crushed all rivals in its debut weekend at the box office. The fairytale romp, starring Nicholas Hoult as a young farmhand battling giants to save a princess, raked in US$28 million (B840 million). The comedy Identity Thief, starring Melissa McCarthy and Jason Bateman, dropped back to second with US$9.7 million (B290 million). Debuting in third place was the comedy 21 and Over, about a medical student who goes out partying for his birthday, which took in US$9 million (B270 million). AFP

US BOX OFFICE TOP 10 Film

Actor Jackie Chan. Photo: Ruslan Antropovs The CPPCC is a 2,000-strong advisory body which includes China’s other token political parties and a few celebrities, including former NBA basketball star Yao Ming. AFP

Gross

Jack the Giant Slayer

$27.2M

Identity Thief

$9.71M

$107M

21 and Over

$8.75M

Snitch

$7.77M

$24.5M

The Last Exorcism Part II

$7.73M

Escape from Planet Earth

$6.62M

$43.1M

Safe Haven

$6.28M

$57.1M

Silver Linings Playbook

$5.72M

$115M

A Good Day to Die Hard

$4.57M

$59.7M

$3.47M

$13.4M

10 Dark Skies

SFC Jungceylon Phuket (Patong) SFC Jungceylon Phuket (Patong) A Good Day To Die Hard (E) [15+] Beautiful Creatures (E) [15+] Jack The Giant Slayer (E) [G] Les Miserables (E) [15+] Parker (E) [15+]

Weekend gross

12:30, 14:45, 17:00, 19:15, 21:30 11:50, 14:20, 16:50, 19:20, 21:50 11:30, 12:15, 13:45, 14:45, 16:15, 17:15, 19:45, 22:15 12:00, 15:10, 18:20, 21:30 18:45, 21:15

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, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH MARCH 8,8,2013

MODELS ROCK THE RUNWAY The Caramba Katalina Fashion Show on March 2 at Bliss Beach Club, Bang Tao, attracted a large crowd. Photos: Max Tiverne

DUCK RACE MAKES A BIG SPLASH The Phuket Community Foundation held its 4th annual charity rubber duck race at Lagunaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Latitude marquee on March 3, attracting a great crowd despite the scorching hot weather. For a list of prize winners visit tinyurl.com/duckracewinners. The Phuket News and Live 89.5 were media sponsors of this event.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

ISLAND SCENE 15

BIRTHDAY BASH Rossovivo Pizza Pasta Grill in Rawai celebrated its second anniversary last week with a special birthday event.

DEALT THE RIGHT HAND The Phuket “Hub of Bridge” club team attended a tournament recently and came away winners of the “Simultaneous Pairs Event”. From left are Didier Pinet, Derek Priest (club director), Jimmy Donald, Amonrada (club manager), Anne Donald and Nigel Philp.

CHARITY KINDNESS Legends Bar and Guesthouse in Kamala held a live music night on Saturday (March 2) to raise money for the Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation. Around B20,000 was raised for the charity.

16 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

From left, Latoya.Marie, Jenny Brady and Emi Talley from New York, with Nuntarat Tanapeusiri.

FRIDAY, MARCH88,, 2013 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH

The gents: Andara GM Daniel Meury and Neil Cumming; the ladies: Sii Cumming and Jeanine Wespes.

Scott Gorsuch, Stephen Paine and Merijn Wessel.

From left, Vasin Srivarathanabul, Benjawan Wisootsat of fin, Marjorie Gallet, Daniel Meury, Chef Ooy of Andara, Andara Executive Assitant Manager Grace Solomon and Jan Ganser of fin.

SUNDOWNERS More than 50 people attended ‘fin’s fabulous French Sunset Wine Tasting’, held at Andara on March 4.

MODEL FUN Me & Malisa: The Dressing Room held a fashion show with the theme “Chinese opera culture” to celebrate the store’s first anniversary. Photos: Photocom Agency

CELEBRATING LOVE Well-known Phuket residents Tammasak “Noi” Chootong and Chanakarn “Pixx” Supasoon got married on February 19 with a special morning ceremony at Noi’s mother’s house, and a party at Iguana Beach Club in Kalim in the evening. The couple have been together for two years and have known each other for almost 10 years. Noi is the owner of popular Phuket Town restaurant Suay. Also in the photo is Noi’s aunty, Dr Maliwan “Pa” Tammasaeng. Photo: Narong Promjitta

ENTERTAINMENT 17

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

Young talent on show at Laguna

ritish International School (BIS) student 15-year-old Siska Greene won the Youth Talent Competition on Sunday (March 3), held at Laguna as part of the Phuket Community Foundation’s Rubber Duck Race event. Siska gave an impressive performance of powerful ballad Who You Are by British artist Jessie J, winning B5,000 for her efforts as well as the opportunity to record one of her songs. Already a highly accomplished singer, Siska has been studying privately with music teacher Siobhan McGovern for more than three years, and has performed all over the island as a soloist and in bands. Last year, Siska achieved a high distinction with honours in her Grade 7 Rockschool Exam. Siska will be performing next as the lead role of Nala in the BIS production of The Lion King. In second place, winning B3,000, was BIS student Sammy Thacker, age 10. Third place and B2,000 went to BIS student Victoria Margo. The Sunday afternoon’s festivities kicked off with a blistering performance by Legends of Siam, last year’s winners. This year’s talent competition, jointly hosted by Siobhan’s Music Studio and Legend Music Recording Studio, attracted 27 entries, and selecting the top three proved to be a difficult task for the judges. Competition judges were Live 89.5’s Jason Wilder, locally-based American performer Pjae Stanley, BIS Grade School teacher Yolaine Johanson, and author and musician Dr Jason Stanley. Entries came from all over the island, from both the international and local Thai schools. For the majority of the competitors, it was their first time performing in front of a large crowd. As well as the main prizes for the top three

Live 89.5’s Got Talent

une in on Live 89.5 on Saturday mornings from 9am to 10am with your host Siobhan McGovern as she interviews Phuket’s up and coming talent. Name: India Wilson Age: 10 years old What instrument do you play and how long have you been studying?

From back, left, judges Dr Jason Stanley, PJae Stanley, and Yolaine Johanson. Front left, Sammy Thacker (2nd), Victoria Margo (3rd) and competition winner Siska Greene. place-getters, additional prizes of music lessons and Adventure Mini Golf vouchers were awarded to promising young artists. Sponsored prizes included cash prizes by Thai Sarco, recording sessions by Legend Music Recording Studio, media exposure from Class Act Media (the parent company of The Phuket News), music lessons by Siobhan’s Music Studio, and mini golf vouchers from Phuket Adventure Mini Golf. The Phuket News and Live 89.5 were media sponsors of the event.

Piano for four and a half years, and violin for three and a half years. What is your favourite thing about performing? It’s fun and I love improving. Do you get stage fright? How do you deal with it? Not really. I enjoy it and I practice a lot, plus much more before a performance. I like being

prepared. Tell us about one of your best performances. Playing Minuet 2 with Ms McGovern just before Christmas. It took a lot of work to finally play that piece and it was fun playing with my teacher.

Journey to Singapore

opular American rock band Journey will perform live in Singapore for the first time ever on March 19, at 8pm at the Singapore Indoor Stadium as part of their World Tour 2013. Journey, one of the most popular American rock bands of all time, is responsible for creating some of the best-known songs in modern music. Over the years they have gained multiple accolades, including 19 “Top 40” singles, 25 Gold and Platinum albums. Hit single Don’t Stop Believin’, the unofficial theme song to hit TV show Glee, is the number one digital catalogue song in history, with sales of more than 5.4 million in the United States alone. In 2011 the band drew nearly a million fans to its 2011 Eclipse World Tour, which included a sell-

out UK leg and ranked in the Top 15 tours of the year. The current Journey line-up is Neal Schon (guitars, backing vocals), Jonathan Cain (keyboards, backing vocals), Ross Valory (bass, backing vocals), Deen Castronovo (drums, percussion, backing vocals) and Arnel Pineda (lead vocals). Memorably, Filipino singer Pineda was asked to join the band in 2007 after Schon saw him singing Journey covers on YouTube. For tickets visit sistic.com.sg or phone +65 6348 5555 (Singapore). Live 89.5 is giving away four tickets to the concert. To enter, listen for the cue to call next week – when you hear a Journey song played on the radio call 076 612 895. The Phuket News and Live 89.5 are media sponsors of this event.

RIVERA COMES TO XANA Tomorrow (March 9) sees international superstar DJ/ producer Sandy Rivera make his debut at Xana Beach Club With Attica. The party kicks off at 3pm with warm up performances from local DJs James D, Emanual Skinner, Marco and Xana with Attica’s Iain Thomson in the latest of the Essentialibiza Presents Pool Parties. Happy hour between 5pm and 6pm gets you ready for the stunning sunset before the party kicks up a notch. xanabeachclub.com

18 EVENTS

FRIDAY MAR 8

List your event for FREE at thephuketnews.com

formers, 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.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

by the women from The Good Shepherd centres. All proceeds go directly to The Good Shepherd’s mission of helping those in need as well as empowering them. Place: Plaza Del Mar, Laguna (Behind Bake). Time: 9am to noon. See thegood shepherd.info.

FRIDAY, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH MARCH 8,8,2013

Taipan, Patong. B290 per person. See www.expathotel.com.

MONDAY MAR 11

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.

How to stay Eco in non Eco Phuket Eco-tourism has many challengers, both in set up and on-going, so why should we bother to be environmentally conscious when it seems not many others in Phuket seem to care? K. Mon from Flying Hanuman will give his first hand knowledge and experience on the challenges he has faced and is facing, and why it is so important to care about the island we all call home. All welcome, doors open 6:15pm, Urban Food, Central Festival, more details ibapphuket.org.

Pool Competition at Expat Hotel Pool Competition at 9pm. Expat Sports Bar, Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www. expatsportsbar.com.

BBQ at Expat Hotel 8pm, Expat Sports Bar, Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www.expatsportsbar.com.

SUNDAY MAR 10 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.

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 MAR 9

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.

Fish and Chips Friday Night B250 per person. At Irish Times Pub, Jungceylon Patong.

TUESDAY MAR 12

Saturday Shopping at The Good Shepherd Charity Shop

Live Music at Underwood Art Factory Every Friday and first Saturday of every month. The home of Phuket’s finest per-

We have a wide and creative range of handicrafts such as toys, greeting cards, ornaments, lanterns, bags, purses and many more. You can also find exquisite arts and craft made by local residents. Pre-loved items include books, clothes and toys. Handicraft items are handmade

Quiz Night at Grizzly’s

Sunday Roast Pork Sunday roast pork or beef dinner every Sunday 2pm onwards at Expat Hotel, Soi

Every Tuesday night. Snacks available. Registration 7.45pm. 1,000 Baht voucher to winners. Grizzly’s Sports Bar and Restaurant, located between Loch Palm Golf Course and Kathu Waterfall. Contact 086 951 4962.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

List your event for FREE at thephuketnews.com

EVENTS 19

Shipwrecked! The Party that will rock your boat... and make a difference for 124 children from the Phuket Sunshine Village - Child Care Center.

Buffet Dinner, Live Entertainment Salsa, Pop & Dance Music DJ Ω, Raffle, Silent Auction Best Costume Award . . . Venue: The Green Man, Chalong Date: 30.03.2013 - 7:30 pm till late Dress Code: As you were when your ship sank Tickets: 999 THB; includes Buffet Dinner and 3 Drink Coupons - available @ the door

All proceeds will be donated to the PSV foundation

www.phuketsunshinevillage.org

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.

Pool Competition at Expat Guesthouse

THURSDAY MAR 14

Pool Competition every Tuesday 9pm Expat Guesthouse Sports Bar, Patong. See map at www.expatguesthouse.com.

with other members of the community, as well as a chance for us all to learn lots of exciting and interesting things about the world. Please contact us if you have any questions. Primary contact point is Miki Edouard, Activities and Events co ordinator, at miki@headstartphuket.com 0r call at 076-612876.

SUNDAY MAR 31 Pork Roast and Roast Chicken Every Thursday. Buffet includes salads, soups, mashed potatoes, bread dumplings. ALL YOU CAN EAT B190. www.phuketko kosnuss.com.

Half Chicken Spit Roast Tuesdays and Saturdays: Half chicken spit roast with French Fries, Salad buffet, Potato Salad & Gravy sauce for B225 per person. 7pm-11pm. Located in Patong on Rat-U-Tit 200 Pee Road next to Hotel Mercure.

Phuket Paddle Festival

Thao Thepkrassattri Thao Sri Suntorn Festival

Phuket’s First Audio Video Interactive Pub Quiz

Journey First Ever Concert In Singapore March 19 2013 - 8pm. Singapore Indoor Stadium. Tickets: $168*, $148*, $128*, $98* *$3 sistic booking fee applies. Buy tickets from Sistic! www.sistic.com.sg or by phone +65 6348-5555. More at journeymusic. com & Lamcproductions.com. Follow us on Twitter & Instagram @Lamcproductions.

SATURDAY APR 13-15

EVERY DAY

Happy Hour at Sugar Reef 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 sugar reefbar.com.

Songkran Festival HeadStart Celebrates International Day

Wednesdays and Fridays. BBQ ribs all you

A day of Stand Up Paddle for the whole family with elite and fun races, kid’s games, food and drink, DJ’s all at beautiful Bliss Beach Club, Bangtao Beach. Entry cost is B200 per person per race with their own paddle board or B500 per person without paddle board. Register before March 15 and receive 10 per cent discount. Contact: info@standupprojects. com, 0854 769 096. All profits of this day go to building phuket’s first community skatepark. The idea of this day is to bring the Phuket community together promoting community spirit, healthy lifestyle and fun spirited competition.

FRIDAY MAR 29

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.

BBQ Ribs All You Can Eat

SATURDAY APR 22-28

TUESDAY MAR 19

WEDNESDAY MAR 13 The festival celebrates the island’s victory in 1785 over an invading Burmese force. Anyone travelling from Phuket Airport towards the south part of the island will have seen the famous Heroines Monument, commemorating the two sisters who led the people of Phuket to victory. This is an event that will give you a deeper understanding of local culture and history.

Young people pour scented water over Buddha images and on the hands of elders to show respect, and to seek their blessing. Another custom of Songkran is to clean houses and anything old and useless must be thrown away. It is believed that anything bad belonging to the old year will be unlucky to the owner if left and carried on to the coming new year. The most prominent custom of the festival is throwing water. Everybody throws water on eachother on the first day. In Phuket, the biggest water-throwing parties are in Patong and Saphan Hin.

The HeadStart International Day celebration will be held on Friday, March 29 from 4-8pm at FunStart. This is an event involving all the parents, students and staff from Preschool to Year 12. This special event is a time for us all to come together to share a little of our own cultural backgrounds

Songkran is the old Thai New Year, and is an occasion for family reunions. Many Thai people return to their homes and families for the three day festival. Celebrated each year between the 13th and 15th of April, it was originally a religious holiday. Songkran begins with early morning merit-making, by offering food to the monks. Paying respect to elders and ancestors is also an important custom of Songkran.

daily event updates on

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

20 TIME OUT

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013 FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

This week in history

GOT YOUR NUMBER

■■ March 8, 1868 Samurai in the Japanese port of Sakai kill 11 visiting French sailors. After a diplomatic row, 11 samurai take their lives by sepuku in recompense. ■■ March 9, 1959 The Barbie doll makes its debut at the American International Toy Fair in New York, in both blonde and brunette versions. ■■ March 10, 1876 Inventor Alexander Graham Bell makes the first telephone call, to an assistant in the next room of his Boston home: “Mr. Watson, come here; I want to see you.” ■■ March 11, 1845 Maori rebel leader Hone Heke chops down the flagpole at a British settlement in New Zealand’s Bay of Island, sparking the “Flagstaff War” with the colonialists. ■■ March 12, 1930 India’s Mahatma Gandhi starts his 300-kilometre “Salt March” to the sea near the village of Dandi, to protest against the British monopoly on salt production. ■■ March 13, 1781 The German-born British astronomer William Herschel discovers a new “outer planet”, the gas giant later named Uranus. ■■ March 14, 44 BC Roman senators Casca, Cicero and Cassius meet to plot the assassination of Julius Caesar, and decide that his friend Mark Antony should stay alive. Antony eventually kills all three.

716

Number of US citizens per 100,000 population who are behind bars, the highest number of any country.

338

Nobel Prizes won by US citizens, the highest number of any country.

Hours it takes for a chicken to make an egg.

Number of centimetres Mexico City sinks every year. An original Barbie doll from 1959. She was available in both blonde and brunette versions.

Crossword by Myles Mellor

1. For what occasion would a poet write an epithalamium? 2. Azawakh, Basenji and Pumi are all types of what? 3. What is the Thai name for Pulo Panjang in Phang Nga? 4. What is the Neapolitan equivalent of the Mafia? 5. Which three lawman, all brothers, were involved in the Gunfight at the OK Corral? Answers at the foot of the page.

SUDOKU

Across 1. Book part 5. “Cut it out!” 10. Five-time U.S. Open champ 14. Almond 15. Auspices 16. All-night party 17. Gardening guy? 20. Boreal forest 21. Old Germans 22. ___ and aahs 25. Dentist’s direction 26. “Blue ___” 30. Opens 33. Brilliance 34. Denials 35. Eerie gift 38. Romantic guy? 42. Haw partner 43. Ricelike pasta 44. Diminished by 45. More lively 47. Sportscaster Musburger 48. Ski trail 51. “Get ___!” 53. Profound 56. Contradict 60. 1991 Tinka Menkes film

64. Took advantage of 65. Zeno, notably 66. Assortment 67. Sea slitherers 68. Old Roman port 69. Don’t believe it

28. Hypothetical form of matter 29. Symbol of strength 31. Earlier 32. Wednesday tree? 35. Coastal raptor 36. Bowl over Down 37. “Check this 1. Affranchise out!” 2. Genuine 39. “___ any drop 3. Zone to drink.” 4. Film maker Coleridge 5. Chocolate source 40. Insignia 6. “A rat!” 41. Cause of 7. “Give it ___!” inflation? 8. Sort carefully 45. Mounts 9. To be, to Brutus 46. ___ Station 10. Free 48. Arouse 11. Radioactive 49. Sign on a plane element facility 12. A plant of the 50. Brace rose family 52. Banana variant 13. Shield figure 54. C-worthy 18. Rabbitlike 55. New newts rodent 57. Come into view 19. Engine sound 58. Deeply 23. Driven 59. Cut, maybe 24. Big bore 26. “Little Women” 61. “i” lid 62. “Rocky ___” woman 63. Scale note 27. Yearn

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz:

1. For a wedding; 2. Dogs; 3. Koh Yao Yai; 4. Camorra; 5. Virgil, Morgan and Wyatt Erap.

WEEKDAYS Breakfast The Power Hour Lifestyle Drive Non Stop Music

Sam & Natasha Live 89.5

SATURDAYS 7am - 11am 11am - 12pm

Live 89.5 Got Talent Weekend Brunch

Siobhan McGovern Kirsty Meyer

9am - 10am

Best Of Breakfast

10am - 1pm

Live 89.5 Dance Anthems

SUNDAYS Sam & Natasha

5pm - 7pm

Weekend Brunch

Kirsty Meyer

10am – 1pm

Steve

7pm - 10pm

The Spin

Tim Newton

1pm - 4pm

Jason Wilder

4pm - 7pm

Steve Johnston

12pm - 3pm

Phuket News Radio

Live 89.5

1pm - 2pm

Saturday Night Fever

Live 89.5

10pm – 12am

International Chart Show Top 40

Jason Wilder

3pm - 7pm

Box Of Neutrals

Live 89.5

2pm – 3pm

Non Stop Music

Live 89.5

12am – 10am

Sunday Night Chill

Live 89.5

7pm - 10pm

Live 89.5

7pm - 7am

Going Green

Nick Anthony

3pm – 5pm

Tel: 076 612 895 SMS: 090 490 7895

Non Stop Music

Live 89.5

10pm – 7am

18 CLASSIFIEDS

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Jobs

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/thephuketnews

classifieds@thephuketnews.com

Siam Palm Residence Co., Ltd. is looking for an experienced Accountant/

Boomerang Village Resort: Job Opportunities at Boomerang Village Resort Cafe Del Sol Restaurant. Waiter / Waitress (4) Restaurant Captain (1) Bartender / Bartendy (1) Boomerang Village Resort Receptionist (2) Manager, Receptionist (1) Guest Relation (1). Contact: Email: boomerangvillageresort@gmail. com, 085 692 3474.

Positions available: 1. FB Manager 2. Group HR Director 3. PR Manager 4. Restaurant Manager 5. Bartender 6. Waitress 7. Waiter. Good benefits, accommodation and service charge guarantee. Contact email: jobs@eventsthailand.net. Call 089 725 6994.

Sales Executive: 1-2 and as part of a team - Have years experience in Sales & Mrk. Good command of English & computer - Friendly and outgoing, able to work within

own motorbike or car with driving license. Call 076 314 345, email: manager@phuket adventureminigolf.com.

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 0 816 930 195.

Sea Bees Diving is looking for a reliable and responsible person, Western or Thai, for our Head Office in Chalong. Applicants should be fluent in English and other languages (German preferred) with good communication, sales skills and willing to work in a highly professional & diverse team. Flexible, able to work under pressure and be service-orientated is a must. This position is long-term & with a full-time contract. Please send your CV & recent photo to: office@sea-bees.com

Office Manager - Ur- Russian sales: Two gent: Thai with good Eng- Chefs are now looking for Restaurant Manager three Michelin star chef. lish skills. General office a outgoing sales person of Wanted: Restaurant man- Good command of English administration background. URGENT. Submit CV to office-manager@techworx. asia or call 081 080 3773 for more details. Call to schedule interview.

Sales Wanted: Sales woman wanted for smart home/AV company, Phuket area. Reasonable English skills. Salary plus commision/expenses. Send CV with photo to info@techworx. asia.

Russian nationality. There is a good opportunity for the right person with an opportunity to get a high salary and good commission. Email: jon@twochefs.com.

ager / accounting with experience managing restaurant, accounting, managing staff and serving customers. Please call 087 471 1351.

Draf tman Wanted: Kiosk Attendee: Must Thai, Draftsman with Autocad experience, basic English, can drive. Send resume at office-manager@ techworx.asia or call 081 080 3773 for more details.

To u r i s m W r i t e r s Needed: We are looking for tourism writers for various projects. Please send your CV to phuketeventco@ gmail.com.

Webdeveloper: Knowledge: HTML, CSS, JQuery, Javascript, Photoshop, Thai nationality and speak basic English and good interpersonal skills. Develop and modify websites on detailed design specifications. Email: kritsanaphat@ lepepgroup.com.

Senior sales staff required: A senior sales staff required for a wholesale/retail dive company, good rates of pay, English essential, driving license, sales experience an advantage, send CV to ian@ sde-asiapacific.com.

be responsible. Good command of English. Service minded and f lexible to welcome our guests, sell adventure mini golf tickets (fees), soft drinks and souvenirs etc. Please call 076 314 345, email: manager@ phuketadventureminigolf. com.

required. Email: hr@iniala. com.

Web Developer (HTML /CSS): Skills: HTML, CSS, JQuery, Javascript, Photoshop. Others: speaking basic English and have experience. We offer an attractive work environment and interesting personal growth opportunities. Send CV to: kritsanaphat@lepep group. com.

Apprentice Chef: Looking for a young Thai chef for new restaurant in a villa complex in Phangnga. Successful candidate will be trained in Spain with

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.

Class Act Media is southern Thailand's most comprehensive media company, incorporating Phuket’s leading English newspaper ‘The Phuket News’, Phuket’s leading English radio station ‘Live 89.5’,‘The Phuket News TV’, a host of publications & services including ‘The Phuket Colouring book’, & ‘Phuket Ticket Master’. WE ARE CURRENTLY SEEKING

SALES REPRESENTATIVES Qualifications: ● Thai or Expat. ● Excellent communication and negotiation skills in Thai and English. ● Highly motivated self-starter with a positive attitude. ● Works well under pressure and has a will to succeed.

We offer: ● Competitive salary, bonuses and travel expenses.

Restaurant Manager Wanted: Thai National - English Speaking/Writing - Managing Experience Preferred. 085 478 8366.

Thai Chef Cook Wanted: Thai National. Experienced Chef for Thai cooking. Call 085 478 8366.

● A friendly work environment. ● Social security paid by the company. ● Excellent career progress opportunities. Interested applicants are invited to apply in person or send application with full resume indicating qualifications and experience, expected salary and recent photo to: adminmgr@thephuketnews.com Tel: 076 612 550-2 ext 101

Class Act Media Co., Ltd. 99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 Fax: 076 612 553

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 19

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

JOBS IN PHUKET

List your ad for FREE at thephuketnews.com

Start Your Financial Freedom Today!!!

Private Tutor

US based network marketing company work in over 140 countries is expanding and opening now the market in Thailand.

Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s degree plus qualified teacher status. · Accredited qualifications for working with young children. · Native English speaker, plus the ability to teach other language . · Expected to play at least 2 musical instruments. · Preferably European, stay in and willing to travel with the family. Experience:

· Minimum 7 years’ experience as Private Tutor. · Minimum 3 years’ teaching experience preferably as a qualified teacher. · Between 35 and 47 years old, Female Rationale:

· The purpose is to support the family in personal growth and development of the children.

· The focus will be on the manners, etiquette, wellbeing and educational progress of the children

· The post will have a significant influence on the children’s personality development and will always ensure their wellbeing.

Please contact 081 978 0090 or email carolgarcia729@gmail.com

in Chalong. Good English. Full-Time or Part-Time. Option for additional income through commissions. Contact: K.Mam 091 568 8397.

Sala Phuket Jobs Vacancies: -Purchasing Manager: 1 Position

Dewa Naiyang Beach Phuket Director of Sales ( Bangkok or Phuket Based) Our ideal candidate will: - Female / Male - Foreigner / Thai - Previous experience in similar position for boutique resort - Bachelor's Degree in Business / Marketing or related fields - Fluent in both spoken and written English - Excellent computer skill, internet literate and social media skills Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV together with applicable certificates to:

-Chief Engineering: 1 Position -Spa Therapist: 4 Positions -Reservations Officer: 1 Positio Contact 076 338 888. Email: pncphuket@sala phuket.com.

Experienced Foodservice Salesperson Wanted: *Must live permanently in Thailand and organise own residency status. *Must speak fluent Thai and English. *Must have experience selling food/alcohol to executive chefs and purchasing managers. Experienced food service. *Must have own car. Only people meeting all above criteria please send resume to george_d@jagota.com.

Nanny: Kamala area family with 2 young boys needs full time nanny for after school and weekends, good English required, prefer Thai national. Excellent salary, leave and meals provided. Call 081 270 2180.

Engli sh Sp ea king Staff Wanted: Waitress and Barkeeper wanted for small guesthouse and Café

DaVinci Restaurant in Nai Harn: Thai nationality only. Waitresses 2 positions, Bartender 1 position. Experience and good English will be an advantage. Good salary and benefits. Contact Khun Jana 086 947 5197, jana@davinciphuket. com.

Phuket Brasserie Jobs Recuitment:

are now looking for a reception staff that can speak

Executive Secretary/Accounts: SecureComm LTD Executive Secretary/Accounts Receivable Secure Comm is a private Hong Kong-based encrypted communication provider. Director of Operations of SecureComm Limited is looking for a Phuket-based, preferably: - Thai native with an excellent command of spoken and written English. (Foreigners on long term visas may also apply.) - Background in AR/Accounting and Bookkeeping is a must. - Experienced in data entry, computer literate, proficient with Excel. - Smartphone savvy, experienced with using Blackberry devices preferred. - Experienced as a secretary or executive assistant with strong organizational/detail oriented/administrative skills. - Must be able to travel, preference will be given to candidates with Passports and Driving Licenses.

If you meet these requirements, submit your CV/ Resume and photo to securecomm@yahoo.com or contact Jesse at 090 916 3460 directly. *Salary will be based on experience and qualifications, bonuses/ benefits and travel expenses will be provided.

Send CV and recent photo to phuketgeneral@gmail.com or call Mr. Velan 080 692 4084 (English, German, Croatia speaking)

Get on board and start your financial freedom today!

Operations Manager Teacher for Governrequired: Club Asia Fit- ment School: English

Admin & Coordinate Staff: Small Dynamic

Native English Teacher:

for a Thai person with admin/HR background. Must be able to communicate in English and Thai. Experience in tour agents or villa rentals would be advantage. Please call 081 958 8747.

Real Estate Agency company is seeking admin & coordinate staff, Thai female, fluent in English, Computer literate. Immediate start. Please send your CV. Email: s a l e s @ 1 8 e x c e l s i o rproperty.com.

- To teach class of 9-12, children ages 6-9. - Must have experience and degree. - Start April 22. - Chalong, 8am- 4pm, Monday - Friday. Mob: 080 624 7060, email: buds.span@ yahoo.com.

British International School, Phuket (BISP) British International School, Phuket is looking for candidates to �ill positions in the following areas:

Accountant (General Ledger) Quali�ications   

Reception/Accounting Wanted: Two Chefs

Required: Must have good English and computer skills, Skype, independent thinking, positive attitude, willing to learn.

Office Admin/Urgent!: We are looking

-Waitress

Contact 076 210 511. Send CV and photo to linkwanjai@me.com.

Income full time.... up to 50.00 Baht per week.

language teaching positions available in government school in Phuket, through the Phuket Has Been Good to Us Foundation. Please email for details or to send CV and cover letter. Email: phukethasbeengoodtous@ gmail.com

-Bartender Salary B9,000. Service charge B4,000. If you worked in hotels before it will be an advantage.

Income part time.... up to 10.000 Baht per week.

ness requires a Thai Operations Manager. Candidates must have manag er ial skills, customer services mind and communicate in English well. Contact email: clubasiaphuket@hotmail. com.

DEWA PHUKET 65 Moo. 1 T.Sakoo, A.Thalang, Phuket 83110. Tel.+66 76 372 300. Fax. +66 76 372 399. E-mail: Lars@tri-asia.com. Website: www.dewaphuket.com. very good English when a big part of the job is to speak with our customers both foreign and Thai. Salary start B12,000+benefits. Email: jon@twochefs.com.

Looking for serious and positive people to work with us and want a long term business relation. You can work from home or any place you have access to internet. Worlds first instant pay plan.

   

Bachelor degree in Accounting / Finance / Business Administration or related field At least 2 years experience in accounting Experience in A/P, G/L area and closing account is preferable Knowledge in SAGE AccPac Accounting System would be an advantage Familiar with Thailand taxation and accounting system Computer knowledge in MS office Good command of English

A/R Accountant Quali�ications     

Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting / Finance / Business Administration or related field Good command of English Computer literate At least 1 year experience in accounting Customer relation skills and service mind are essential

Secretary to Administration Of�ice Quali�ications    

Thai nationality Bachelor’s Degree in related field Excellent English, Computer literacy and good people skills Able to coordinate with other department

School Driver Quali�ications   

Excellent driving record with 3 years of experience Have knowledge of safety rules and regulations Professional attitude / Good organizational skills

Interested candidate please submit your cv and recent photo to patcharakornt@bisphuket.ac.th or sirirats@bisphuket.ac.th

British International School, Phuket (BISP) 59 Moo 2, Thepkrasattri Road, Koh Kaew, Muang, Phuket 83200 Tel. 076 335555 # 2113, 2110 Fax. 076 335573

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Property PROPERTY FOR RENT

ACG Cricket Ground: 5 Rai raw land behind ACG clubhouse on long lease for compatible sporting facility, contact alan@acgphuket. com.

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For rent in Patong

RPM Owner Direct

Luxury Ocean View Apartments for Rent in Kata and Karon: 1 or 2 Bdrm, 2 Bathrm, Kitchen, large balcony, parking, 24 hrs security, gymnasium, swimming pool. Ph: 076 486 624 and 086 281 9311. Email: bao200@gmail.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

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.

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 (Frence) 080 035 1626 English 081 788 8280 Email: maurice.phuket@gmail.com For Rusian contact: Oxana: 080 529 0726 Email;phuket.lux@gmail.com

Nice House for Long Term Rent: Just a few minute walk to Naiharn beach, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, aircon. B17,000 per month. Call 081 397 1833.

Villa with Pool for Sale: Accommodation Available: Patong Tower Near Beach 3 Bed Pool Villa: Fully equipped holiday home 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.

apartment 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.

The Courtyard - Dance Centre: Located next to Island Furniture, Chaofa Road West, 2 kms. South of Central. Corner unit, on the upper of two floors, 7m x 15 m, plus entrance lobby. Two large mirrors, special flooring, aircons, adequate parking. Rent 25,000B/month. Security deposit 75,000B (refundable). Lease one to three years. Contact Khun Siriporn Island Furniture. 081 691 0213 or visit thecourtyardphuket.com.

House For Rent: 3 bed-

Beach Condo, Beach 3 Min. Walk: Spacious

Andaman Beach Suite Condo Patong Beach, Phuket: Has kitchenette, terrace, 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.

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. re sortgm@gmail.com.

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.

la, 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.

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.

Guesthouse for Lease in Patong: 12 rooms ,good location Nanai Road.9 years lease:ver y low rent,strong starting, easy to manage and good return on investment. Price 1MLN. Take this opportunity. Thamad17@yahoo.com. 089 728 4005.

Beautiful Villa Rawai: Beautiful 2 bed pool villa with sep maidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Nai Harn Baan Bua:

do, freehold, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 120sqm. 7.8 million Baht, fully furnished. For more pictures and information please contact adrian_troy@yahoo.com

When only the best will do! 4 bed/pool villa in Phuketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best-kept gated community. 410 sq.mtr villa. 812 sq.mtr land. Overlooking lagoon. Beautiful. Call 081 270 4291. Email: thailandmls@gmail. com, w w w.phuketpremium realestate.com.

Building 3 storey for sale: THB 26,000,000. Only

3 Bed Pool Villa Pa Khlok: 3 Beds, 2 Bath

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@hot mail.com

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.

Rawai Seaview Condo for sale: Seaview conAffordable 3 Bedroom House: Single floor, 3 bed-

Ocean Front Villa for rent: Luxury brand new vil-

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.

Near Naiyang Beach, 3 bed & 4 bath, jacuzzi, open dining/living room, kitchen, fully furnished, aircon, garden, Sala, swiming pool, car park. Only 8.9MB. 087 091 8331 K. Nah, chiangmaibel trade@hotmail.com, dream housephuket.com.

Villa and farmland for sale: A big beautiful house

FOR SALE RAWAI BEACH

rooms, 2 bathrooms, fully furnished with small garden, quiet area at Paklok. Rent: B15,000 per month. Email: suksavat@hotmail.com or 084 626 5616.

Shop Front for Rent:

Nice Villa 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.

room, 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 Heroine Monument B3.2 million. Call 086 278 0007.

Sea View Land for Sale: Ao-Yon, 13.5 rai, chanode title.10m/rai.Call Siri 089 649 9939, email:siri_ phuket@changrunner.com.

Patong Apartment Reduced Price: Condo 4 years old. Swimming pool, security 24/7, cafeteria. Studio 46sqm fully furnished. Fr e e h o l d f o r f o r e i g n e r s . Price:2.6MLN. Urgent sale, no agent. tel.089 728 4005. Mail:thamad17@yahoo.com.

Nai Harn Beach Townhouse: 3 story, 2 bed townhouse. Views over Nai Harn lake and only one minute walk to beach.Lease or free hold. Roof top BBQ/ Sala. Buy of the Century. B6,500,000. Call 081 270 4291. See phuketpremium realestate.com.

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FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

List your advert for FREE at thephuketnews.com PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

F O R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE

Sea-View ChalongResidence: Dream pool

Condo At The Heights, Kata: Immaculate 2-Bed fo rei gn - f re eh o l d unit in award-winning project. 195 sqm, sea view, near gym & pool. Quality furnishing throughout. Designer kitchen with utility-store. phuket.pn@ gmail.com.

villa with 5 bedrooms all with ensuite on 1 rai of land. Big hall, office, maidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 European- designed 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.

Absolute Beachfront - EVA: Set on the beachfront, the ff villa offers uninterrupted sea and island views of the south east coast of Phuket. Situated between t wo 5 star resor ts: Vijitt and EVASON near Laem Kanoi. 081 480 3834, http:// www.facebook.com/Phuket. Beachfront.

Resort for Sale: Resort 2

House for sale near Loch Palm: Three bed-

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.

room pool villa in Kathu close to international schools. Views over Loch Palm. All bedrooms with aircon and en suite bathrooms. Two car garage and secluded garden. Chanote title. Call 084 844 0991

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.

Beautiful Karon Villa: 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.

205/34 Soi Thamdee Nanai 6: House for sale in a

3 & 4 Bed Pool Villas: Laguna/Layan. Luxury

very good location in the heart of Patong. The house has 3 floors, 3 sleeping rooms, 1 living room, 3 bathrooms and a roof terrace with jacuzzi, garage. Good rental return. Price on request. 084 188 4544.

private pool villas in secure development. Available now. All beds ensuite. Fully furnished. Rental programme available. B12-20 million. Contact owner: 085 549 7110.

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.

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.

For Sale Rawai Beach Special Twin Villa. 4 suites/studios, 4 bat hro oms, p o ol, large terrace, small garden, living space 40 0 sqm. Include luxury furnishing

LUXURY 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT 60 SQM. PRICE B3,400,000. LEASEHOLD. INCLUDE FURNISHINGS.

INFO: 081 788 8280. EMAIL; thewhite housekata @ gmail. com.

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.

Price B8.5 mllion. SMS for info: 081 788 8280 Email: thewhitehousekata@gmail.com For Rusian contact Oxana 080 529 0726 or Email: phuket.lux@gmail.com

BEST SEAVIEW LAND-EVER! www.phuket-land-sale.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.

House For Sale In Chalong By Owner: Chanote title. 412 sq.metre. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Extra penthouse with open k itc he n an d sto re r o o m. Lovely garden, very quiet and cosy place. Access to pool nearby. Price B3.9 mill. negotiable. Telephone 087 881 3062 (After 5/4-13 +47 4739 0581) email: kjellsy vertsen@hotmail.com.

2 Pool Villas next to PIA: 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 developement with underground electricity and security, only 800 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.

One + Two Homes for Sale with AC, Rawai: Main home: 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.

Hill Land for Sale: Very nice location hill land by the Bangwat Dam, total 60 rai, 96,000 square metre. Contact: Attapong 081 892 0610 (Thai), Jantiwa 081 890 8268 (Eng). e-mail: jantiwa_ j@hotmail. com.

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 phuketpremiumre alestate.com

F O R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE

F O R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE LUXURY 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT 60 SQM. PRICE B2,700,000. LEASEHOLD. INFO: 084 843 8720. EMAIL; thewhite housekat a @ gmail. com.

PROPERTY IN PHUKET

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.

LUXURY 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT 60 SQM. PRICE B2,900,000. LEASEHOLD. INFO: 084 843 8720. EMAIL; thewhite housekata @ gmail. com.

Freehold House for sale: Freehold house for sale in Permsap Villa, Cherng Talay. Land 735 m2, original 4 bedroom house w it h 2 3 0 m2 f l o o r area modified to 3 bedroom, all windows and doors from SUNPARADISE, separate carport from Shades. Very quiet estate. First owner since 2009. Price B10.9 mln o.n.o. Call 083 509 8797 for information.

Patong Lof t Condo: Pa tong Towe r fo r 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.

House for sale Rawai Soi Orchid: 5 sleeping rooms 4 toilets. 3 kitchens EUR / Thai/outside. 3 car places Soi Ruam Na Nachat sale by owner 8.7MB. Tel 084 745 4132, private financing by owner down 2.7MB+4 yearly payment of 1.5MB

Makes a good condo deal now. 1-bedroom, fully furnished, 67 sqm living area. Only B2.99 mil. Big swimming pool. Normal price B3.7 mil. Call 089 872 6895. Email: jospeder@live.no.

Investment Property for sale!: New, modern waterfront townhome at the Boat Lagoon for sale. Rented out long term at 570,000 Baht/ 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).

Opportunity Knocks: 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.

22 CLASSIFIEDS

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FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

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PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

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. 3.75 Mill baht per rai negotiable. Call 081 087 9237.

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.

PATO N G - 2 B E D ROOM TOWNHOUSE: C o m p l ete 18 0 d e g r e e seaviews, 215 metres living area, 2 balconies and 2 huge roof terraces. Quiet location, euro managed develpâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t, private swimming pool, car parking and gardens. 087 268 1170, www.phuketrealestatesalesandrentals.com.

Beautiful Naiharn Pool Villa: Secure private hillside

1 Rai Land QUICK Sale in Rawai: Beau-

by Naiharn Beach. Quality furnished throughout. 3 big bedrooms, office, 4 baths, 230 sm plus carport etc. 1050 sm land. New condition. 15x4.6 m pool. Freehold. Nice. 089 727 5407.

tiful land with Chanote 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.

Rawa i So i S a l i g a 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 tiltle.

SeaView near Airport: 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.

Karon Hill Condo for sale! Foreign Freehold: Seaview over Karon

Rawai B eachf ront Pool Villa for Sale: Rawai Beach front pool villa for sale. 3 bedrooms, furnished. Contact Siriporn on 089 649 9939.

B e ac h. 10 0 s qm. Li v ing area. 1 bedroom, walk in closets, luxury bathroom, terrace, etc. Fully furnished. Many upgrades. Luxury furnishings. Only 6.9 million baht. Brokers welcome. Call 086 747 9292 (English) or 0 81 970 520 4 (English/ Thai). Email: claudstrey@ gmail.com.

House on The Corner for Sale: Quiet location and only 500m from the main road. Thepkrasattri, Heroines Monument. 70sqw x 280sqm, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, big living room with open - plan k itc hen (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.

sign villa 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 center & beach. Call 085 473 7812.

Happy Home Apartment for sale: Nice Patong Bangla Building for Sale: B28 mil-

lion, Chanote, 4 floors 6m x 14m. 1st & 2nd tenanted. Flr 3-staff accom, bath, kitchen. Separate office with access to lower floor. 4th flr private Penthouse one bed. 087 881 7600.

P a t o n g Fr e e H o l d 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. 2.5 B/T Eng 085 471 9246, Thai 087 621 3405.

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.

Ocean Front Villa for Sale: Luxury brand new vil-

Pool Villa For Sale Nai Harn: Modern, open de-

Fu r n i s h e d H o u s e for Sale Phuket Villa 5: 3 bedroom furnished

apartment, fully furnished at Rawai. The apartment 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.happyhomeapartmentphuket.webiz. co.th.

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), e m a i l:d av i d g e m 9 8 @ h ot mail.com.

Kathu- Pool Villa for sale: 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.

F O R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE 2 BEDROOMS LUXE APARTMENT 13 5 S Q M . PR I C E B7,900,000. LEASEHOLD. INFO: 084 843 8720. EMAIL; thewhite housekata @ 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.

Pool Villa in Marina: Ready to move in, single storey pool villa with 3 bedrooms situated in the impressive Park Residence s e c t o r of B o at L a g o o n Marina. Impressively constructed along a modern Asian theme. 076 238 948, email: marketing@phuketproper tytrip.com.

Golf V i ew V illa For Sale: Near British International School, state-of-the-art villa overlooking the Loch Palm Golf Course: 4 bedrooms + maidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s room; 485 m2 built on 1,860 m2 land. B28million. Contact owner 089 724 7211.

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. 0 9 0 487 8 08 4, utaipan@yahoo.com.

Sea-View Contemporary Pool Villla: Located near Phuket town. Land: 855sq.m. House: 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.

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. andamanhills@gmail.com.

Apar tment on Golf Course: Golf View, Kathu. Tastefully renovated large (83m2) apartment 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: keithmarshall747@gmail.com.

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

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.

Patong Condo: Makes a good condo deal now. 1-bedroom corner condo 56sqm, fully furnished. Only 1.99 mil. Normal price 2.6 mil. 10mins walk to beach and Bangla Road. Tel: 089 872 6895 or jospeder@live.no.

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.

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PROPERTY IN PHUKET

PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

Land Closed to Thanyapura /PIA: Half 6.1 Rai Land for Sale: 6.1 rai (10,000sq metre). - 5 m i nute s to N a i t h o n 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.

Cheapest Seaview land for Sale: Panorama view of sea view golf course view mountain view land for sale. Near Mission Hills Golf course. 6rai chanote tiltle. B3 million per rai. 087 675 9555, email:pee_ bang56@hotmail.com.

Beachfront land for sale: 2 rai absolute amazing

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 e-mail: kubesjoy@ hotmail.com.

G o l f Co u r s e L a n d For Sale: Near British Intl School, 17 rai with public road access. Suitable for resort or housing project. Can be divided. Price: B 4. 5 m p e r r ai. C o nt ac t owner 089 724 7211, email: julien@phuketimmo.com.

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.serenitygroup@gmail.com.

Reduced for Quick Sale: Studio condo at The Point near Lotus, Big C, Central. Fully furnished. Great views 6th floor. Cost B2.8M Baht. Reduced to B2.25M. Call 087 889 3838 or 081 370 8114. Email: davidgem98@ hot mail.com

Seaview Land Patong: Prime Location 35M Lake Front: Fantastic

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.

views over the 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.

Absolute Beach Front Land: S o ngk la dist r ic t near new deep sea por t. 4.5 Rai divided into 7 Chanote plots. Reluctant sale. B4.9M the lot. Email: jmic chia@yahoo.c om or c all 087 276 0529.

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).

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.

Pa klok L and O nly B7,999/Sqwah: Only

Donsak Beachfront Land 3 Rai: 67 metres

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

absolute beach frontage, fully infrastructured, ready to build. Close to ferry going to Koh Samui. Chanote title. 6.6MB for all. Contact 087 225 8311 (English) John. Email: nhoj0512@hotmail. com.

Amazing Sea View Penthouse: Panoramic

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.

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.

Land Plot for Sale: Chanode title at Cherng Talay / Pasak7 (Phuket - Surin Beach aerea) Phone 090 487 8084. Email: utaipan@ yahoo.com.

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.

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.

3 gorgeous lots, clean titles: For sale or long lease. 2 Lots on IslandBeachfront (Bungalow-/ Housing-Estate) and 1 big Mainland-Mountain property all in very quiet, safe, well maintained locations near Krabi. 089 291 4671.

Two parcels of superior land 11 rai. Inc seaview. Main road frontage. Ideal for resort or condominiums. B150 M. Negotiable. (Thai) 081 370 8114 or (Ger) 081 892 1108. Email: davidgem98@hotmail.com.

Condominium in Patong for Sale: Less than 1 Km

6 rai Hilltop Land for sale: Near Mission Hills golf

1 Rai Sea-View Land:

Rai 1.3MB, 1 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, 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.

Patong/Kalim sea view condo: Freehold,

2nd floor, corner 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.

Rawai Half Rai for Sale: Land 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.

Apartment for sale in Patong: Apartment for SALE in 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.

New Condo â&#x20AC;&#x153;Phuket Villa Patongâ&#x20AC;?: Prime

Patong Condo for Sale: My condo is ready

location, deluxe 65 sqm, 1 bed 1 bath apartment, freehold, modern full furnished, pool, gym, sauna, CCTV + security 24hrs, private park. 4.9MB. Call John: 087 225 8311 (English) Email: nhoj0512@hotmail.com.

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 Chalong Pier Land Sale: Reduc ed Price. 1,483 sqm (0.927 Rai). Chanote Title, New Survey. Public road, electric and well. 450m walk to Chalong Pier. B8.9 million. 085 784 0209. chalong1000@gmail. com. www.sites.google.com/ site/1483meters.

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.

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COMPANY FOR SALE

Sunseeker 58 Manhattan For SWAP or SALE

PHUKET, THAILAND

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.

Sport Club for Sale by Owner: Set on 4 rai

Moonsoon for sale:

SELF STORAGE, POTRA COM, PRE-FAB 470,000 USD - 345,000 EURO - 450,000 AUD - 300,000 BP

WWW.SAFEWAYASIA.COM

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.

BOATS & YACHTS

Speed Boat For Sale: A Steal For A Quick Sale: 2007 Italian demo

Sale New Boat SR-21 Finished: Only B330,000. Samran Marine, We are professional boat builders, factory located in Pattaya, This model is SR-21 fully finished, We can delivery to you place. “This price exclude engine” Call 081 782 0921. Email: nungnapong@ hotmail.com.

yacht Cranchi 47f t 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.

Steppa Fiberglass 32 feet Flybridge two 200 hp Yamaha outboard engines. Ideal for diving and tours. B850,000. Call 081 8942124.

Speedboat for sale Hull Only: Excellent condition, 12.18m 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.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Rawai Restaurant For Sale: Popular ex-pat cafe in excellent location with 2 bedroom ac c ommodation above. 32 seats. Clean, fully equipped, fully operating, high volume, high profit, LOW RENT! Motivated seller looking for quick sale. Family reasons. B2 million. Call 091 154 3296.

Exceptional Yacht For Sale: Beautifully maintained Wauquiez Yacht 41FT. Specs and photos: w w w.w a u q u i e z f o r s a l e . blogspot.com. Robert: 087 632 8259 or email: camina ta40@hotmail.com. Priced to sell: $199K US. Can be seen in Phuket.

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 exclude engine”. Call 081 782 0921. Email: nungnapong@ hotmail.com.

28Ft, registered for 15 passengers. 200Hp/ V6 Mercury motor, only 240 hours, totally restored 40 hours ago, perfect for snorkeling, diving trips, island hopping, water taxi navigation system + fishfinder, 5hp spare motor. Boat and motor in very good condition. Located at Boat Lagoon. Priced for quick sale at B330,000. Contact at : 086 747 9292 or claudstrey@gmail.com.

Speed boat for sale! Now 290,000: 6 metre body Bayliner, 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.

4 0F T Steel Cut ter Sloop: Ready to cruise.

Charter Boat: 62ft Hat-

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.

teras 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.

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

Cement Production Plant: 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.

Restaurant /Guesthouse for sale: Located in Kamala. 40 metres to the beach. 10 rooms with full furnishings. Restaurant 54 seat. Price B8 million. For more information call 081 396 0033.

Ski Boat for Sale: Glastron Carlson 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.

land with full chanote title. Include tennis court, volleyball court, fishing lake, game room, restaurant and bar and separate guest bunkalow 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.

Restaurant/Pub: For sale in Bang Tao Beach Road. Get 10 years 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 Business for sale: Busi-

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.

ness 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. For further info email samos1941@ gmail.com.

Busy Bar for sale: Very 6.5M RIB: New Hypalon tub- busy Mushroom bar for sale ing 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.

in Soi Bel Air. Wally Bar. All stock, TV sound system, beer boxes and fridges included in sale, rent B10,000 monthly, only B850,000 ono. Call 086 725 0771.

2 Rai, Cherngtalay: 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.

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CLASSIFIEDS 25

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

BUY & SELL IN PHUKET

List your advert for FREE at thephuketnews.com BUSINESS OPPT. CONT.

control, air bags, CD stereo, controlled on steering wheel 490,000B moving must sell, contact Thai/English: 090 165 0875.

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.

Sale Bar, Hotel + 1 Shop Rawai Beach: Land plot 700 sq metre+building+10 bed+10 bath+2 restaurants. New renovated. Private financing by owner. Down B2 million +13yearly payment of 1MB. Own forever title land 100 metre to Rawai landing pier. 084 242 8914, rawai4@ yahoo.com.

BUSINESS SERVICES

Sailboat for Sale/or TRADE

Lady Car for sale: Nissan Tida 2010 model, automatic, as new condition, white, mag wheels, air con, CD stereo controlled from steering wheel, 1 year 1st class insurance. B550,000 ONO, call 087 276 0529.

Email maurice.phuket@gmail.com or SMS 081 788 8280 For Russian contact Oxana 080 529 0726 or Email: phuket.lux@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS FOR SALE

Clubs & Memberships:

Tile It: Thalang. Wana Park on Srisoonthorn Rd. Phuket’s quality tile boutique. Tiles for interior, exterior, residential, commercial. Contact 076 620 168 or 081 424 2828. Email info@tileasia.com.

Mini Cooper S JCW GP for sale: Only 2000 made worldwide. Perfect condition, 2006, 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.

Club Asia Fitness, Royal Phuket City Hotel - Offers Zumba/LesMills/Yoga Classes/Weight Training/ Sauna/Steam/Swimming pool-all inclusive. For a free trial workout come along and join the action. Tel 076 354 027, 087 275 3614, www.clubasiaphuket.com.

POOL TABLES

Backgammon: Players Wanted. Tel: 081 577 8443, email: phuketconnection@ yahoo.com

PET ADOPTION

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.

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.

Football Table for Sale: Brand new “Heavy duty” Soccer/Football Table for rent and sell. Suitable for bars and hotels. Call us now at 081 823 4627, 085 782 1200.

SPORTING GOODS & EXERCISE Life Fitness Walking Machine: Brand new retail B150,000. Sell for B70,000. Call 0872760529.

TOYOTA V I O S FO R SALE: 2007 lady owner per-

VALCUCINE for sale:

fect condition 359,000 baht. Tel 081 125 1873, gordon_ asia@hotmail.com.

CHILDCARE COOKING CLASS

VA LCUCINE 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).

Specialized Carbon Full Suss: Stumpjumper FSR Carbon 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.

H e a l t h Fo o d: O n l i n e

CAR FOR RENT

New Honda Jazz: New Honda jazz for rent with insurance and delivery service. Call 081 607 8567.

CARS FOR SALE

oldest international childcare facility. High-quality, time-proven schedule and curriculum. Now in brandnew purpose-built school. Experienced native English teachers to teach ages 1 1/ 2- 8 . M on - Fr i 8 am 5pm. Bus ser vice available from Patong, Karon, Kata, Phuket, Rawai and Chalong. Tel: 076 384 638, 080 624 7060. Website: www.buds-phuket.com.

CLUBS & MEMBERSHIPS Golf Membership for Sale: Loch Palm 500,000 Mazda 2 For Sale: One year old 7,500km. automatic, smart lock, park distance

health food in Thailand. Good karma, all natural, healthy, and organic products. Please contact 082 276 1675, www.good karmathailand.com.

Buds Nursery: Phuket’s

Baht. Country club 500,000 Baht. Buyer pays for transfer. 083 388 5566. Email borst. jg@gmail.com

Phuket Cooking A c a d e my: C o o k i n g 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. phuket-cooking-academy. com or call 081 821 4064.

PERSONAL SERVICES

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.

Kite Surf Equipment for Sale: 2 new boards,

For more photos visit www.doggieheaven.net Or contact: Sherin.peace@gmail.com ***Vaccinated & sterilised

never used. 2 Kites, used 2-3 times. New price was more then 200,000 Baht. Sell altogether for 100.000 B a h t . Fo r s i n g l e i t e m s please call. 086 747 9292 (English) or 081 970 520.

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

26 CLASSIFIEDS HOME IMPROVEMENT

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

PHUKET SPORT

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

Jabudays edge out Patong

CRICKET

LL Hotels Cricket League leaders Patong and Jabudays met at the Alan Cooke Ground (ACG) on a very hot Sunday, March 3. A win for Patong would see them extend their lead at the top of the table, while Jabudays were looking to bounce back after their recent defeat to Laguna. Ultimately, the Jabudays lads just held on in a very close match, hitting the winning run with just one wicket in hand and six balls to spare. Patong chose to bat first and got off to a solid start, with openers Mike Khan (12) and Seemant Raju (21) putting on a 46 run partnership before Khan fell in the 8th over. Patong then suffered the dismissal of David Watson (12) just a few balls before the 10 over drinks break, followed by a mini batting collapse that yeilded a score of 5 wickets down for 89 runs in the 16th over. Captain Anthony Van Blerk (15) and Neil Quail (32) then delivered a 43 run partnership, before Van Blerk was bowled in the 23rd over with the score on 6-132. This brought Thai young-

Patong’s Mike Khan lines up a ball from Jabudays’ Paresh Bokar at the ACG on Sunday ster Pao (43) to the crease, who top-scored for Patong and guided the innings to a respectable 200 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in 35 overs. The pick of the bowlers for Jabudays was Ali Khan (4 for 32). Jabudays were looking to get off to a solid start after lunch but soon started dropping, and at 4 wickets down for 14 runs in only the 4th over Patong hoped to wrap up the innings soon and head to the clubhouse early. But Deepak Mehra (59) and Ali Khan (52) had other ideas, and staved off an early adjournment with a 120 run partnership before Kahn fell with the score on 5-134. Surender Kumar (32) then joined Mehra at the crease and

JLL Hotels Cricket League 2012/2013 Team

Pts

Patong

Jabudays

Laguna

TNT

Village

put on a 47 run partnership until Richard Desmond skittled Kumar’s stumps in the 29th over, with the score on 6-181. Mehra fell just two runs later. After the 30 over break, with the score at 7-183, Balesh Dessai (12 not out) and Vikram Sharma began with Dessai hitting a six out of the ground. But Patong struck back, with David Watson bagging a couple of quick wickets, and soon Jabudays were 9 wickets

The Sawasdee League players and coaches at the Alan Cooke Ground on Saturday.

Cricket league big hit with kids CRICKET FOUR TEAMS OF EAGER young cricketers met for their games of the Phuket Cricket Group’s (PCG) Sawasdee League at the Alan Cooke Ground (ACG) on Saturday (March 2). The PCG fielded an A and B team from its Youth Academy, which were joined by teams from HeadStart and Thai Hua schools. In match 1, Thai Hua (252) played PCG Youth Academy Team A (240). Although the PCG A team were younger than their opposition, it was a closely fought match. Kian and Luke top-scored for PCG A with an 80 run partnership, with Marcus and Ryan scoring a valuable 67. Thai Hua were more consistent, with each batting pair averaging over 60 runs each. Ong and Thanawat were the

top scorers with 66 runs, followed by Max and Mine with 65. The pick of the bowlers were Korn for Thai Hua with two wickets and Harry for PCG with one wicket. In match 2, HeadStart (246) played PCG B (163). The HeadStart team proved strong, with a 75 run partnership between Sandy and Silvana supported by Hugh and Irakly with 61 runs. Kieran and Bonnie top-scored for PCG B team. In match 3, PCG B (248) defeated PCG A (217). Luke and Marcus top scored for the A team with 74 runs, but the 85 runs from Kian and Bonnie for the PCG B team proved to make the difference. The pick of the bowlers was Harry for PCG A with two wickets and DJ for PCG B who also bagged two wickets. In match 4, HeadStart (303) defeated Thai Hua (288).

Irakly and Sean top scored for HeadStart with 74, and Ahan and Korn top scored for Thai Hua with 64. At the end of the matches, some of the kids also got to try out PCG’s new bowling machine which will prove to be a valuable tool in improving their cricketing skills. Some great young talent was on display with some of the senior league players being very impressed with the skills being displayed. The next round of the Sawasdee league takes place at 9am on Saturday, March 16, at the ACG in Phuket’s Thalang district. The PCG Youth Academy training sessions also take place every Saturday morning at the ACG. All children are welcome. Please contact Mark Ashman (chairmain@phuketcricketgroup.com) for details.

down for 195 runs. Number 11 for Jabudays , Paresh Borkar, tried to keep the Patong bowlers at bay and eventually managed to hit one through the covers to secure the winning runs, to the rapturous cheers of his team mates. Pick of the bowlers for the Patong was Richard Desmond (3 for 25) with Pao, Manesh Sadarangani and David Watson taking two wickets each.

Thanyapura SLC’s Craig Johns (at left) greets British swimmers (from left to right) Grant Turner, Liam Tancock, Fran Halsall, Amy Smith and the team’s coach, James Gibson.

British swim stars in Phuket SWIMMING MEMBERS OF THE BRITish sprint swim team have been training at the Thanyapura Sports and Leisure Club (TSLC) in Phuket’s Thalang district – the latest world-class sports team to make use of the Thanyapura’s sports training facility. Amongst the swimmers who flew out to Thailand for the training programme were two-times world champion and world record holder Liam Tancock, Olympian Grant Turner, and European and Commonwealth champions Fran Halsall and Amy Smith. As well as undertaking a vigorous training regime during their stay, the British

swimmers adopted TSLC’s ethos of preparing young athletes for sporting excellence by helping coach the facility’s junior swim team, Silverfinz. “It’s been a real pleasure hosting the British team. They have made a great impression on the management and staff at Thanyapura, as well as the parents of our Silverfinz kids,” said Craig Johns, Thanyapura SLC’s Sports Academy director. The British team said they selected Thanyapura as a training centre because of its Olympic-standard 50-metre swimming pool, renowned sports science facilities and idyllic location surrounded by the mountains of Phuket.

28 PHUKET SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

Tall tales from Wahoo 2013 CAST AWAY

Jimmy Stewart editor@thephuketnews.com

Topper and Optimist dinghies at the Phuket Sailing Club’s open day at Ao Yon, Cape Panwa, on Sunday.

Sails set at Ao Yon SAILING

he beach at Ao Yon in Panwa hosted a flotilla of keen kids in small boats on Sunday (March 3), when the Phuket Sailing Club held an open day. The club has taken over a long tradition of providing sailing training for local youngsters, who can make use of a variety of available

boats to match their sailing skills, including Optimist and Topper dinghies. The club also has the use of larger boats, including a 25foot Platu Keelboat, 16-foot fast catamarans, Lasers, Topaz dinghies, and an Omega Sport with spinnaker, as well as kayaks and paddleboards for stand-up-paddling. “We’ve got a lot of boats” says Phuket Sailing Club organiser Katy Gooch, adding

that the group is now looking for more sailors to take them out on the water. While in the past the club has been mainly focused on providing sailing training and sailing races for local children, Ms Gooch says the group wants to get more adults involved – in part to help get the boats out of the water at the end of the day. Each year the club also takes a group of Phuket

youngsters and adults to compete in the Top Of The Bay Regatta at Jomtien Beach near Pattaya. The club holds sailing training each Sunday at its clubhouse on the western arm of Ao Yon, a secluded beach on the Panwa peninsula. For more information about the club, contact Katy Gooch at katy@toppersailphuket.com

HI AGAIN MY FELLOW ofishinadoes. There is an old saying which begins, “Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day.” The Queen Marlin team won a prize for altering the rest of this adage to “give a man a fishing rod and he will drink beer indefinitely.” Although the Wahoo/RBFC 2013 competition has some serious rivalry (and is to my mind the best contest of the year) it is also the greatest fun as the boats pull up to the ‘Mother Ship’ (the MV Phoenix) to “weigh in” their catch. In reality there were three Marlin and five sails tagged and released, but to hear the stories, half the boats had Moby Dick chewing on their leaders while the rest blamed blunt gaffs and faulty hooks. Personally I was a bit miffed not to be called to the rostrum for the largest fish of the tournament, a 2.2 metre Sailfish, measured from the

tip of the bottom jaw to the inside of the V in the tail, in accordance with IGFA rules. Unfortunately the competition rules were for the “most, caught and released”, not the longest, and the Captain Hooks team caught two babies. But well done Captain Hooks (Grrrrr.) Back on to the subject of beer, Chalong Pier has been a proper mess with the “Booze Cruise” boat at the entrance to the marina since February 26 (now removed). Between the new buoys and the new wreck, Chalong Pier was getting as bad as Chalong Circle, all we needed was for the police to start directing the traffic... Tight lines Jimmy www.fishinginphuket.com

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Run 1409: 4pm on Saturday, March 9 Hares: Gorgeous & Barbara Woodhouse Directions: From Phuket Town take Sakdidet road (4023) to Cape Panwa. At the sign for Khao Khad View Point (HHH signs) turn right, follow road approx. 2.25 km then turn right (HHH sign) up good stone road for approx. 350 metres. More info: Part of the route of last weekend’s Phuket HHH run above Wat Luang Pu Supha, northwest of Chalong. phuket-hhh.com

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

PHUKET SPORT 29

Joy Dive stay top of Division 1 FOOTBALL

oy Dive got back to winning ways and stayed top of the table in Division 1, although they continue to be closely pursued by a hungry pack. Meanwhile, three teams pulled away in Division 2, and the competition tightened at the top of Division 3 as the two leading sides both lost their games. Division 1 Phuket Condos & Homes v Joy Dive FC: 1 – 5 The first game was the clash between table toppers PC&H and Joy Dive FC. PC&H were looking for revenge after losing in the reverse fixture, while Joy Dive were looking to get back to winning ways after two games without victory. Joy Dive, with new recruits for the second half of the season, started quicker and never looked back. At the final whistle Joy Dive had slotted in five goals for a 5-1 win. Morning Star v Shakers FC: 2 – 1 Another classic match-up, as local boys and title defenders Morning Star went up against Shakers FC. It was Morning Star who started in control, with goals from Arnaud Sou-

Action from the Division 1 game between Phuket Condos & Homes and Joy Dive. The latter won the game 5-1. dachan and Karl Ward. In the second half, Shakers took the pace up a notch in an attempt to turn the tide. They succeeded in pulling back a goal with a well taken effort by Pedro Carrera, but the last 15 minutes were a stalemate, and Morning Star were finally rewarded with a close 2-1 victory. Holiday Inn FC v Nanai Boys: 1 – 2 The last match of the evening was between bottom sides Holiday Inn and Nanai Boys.

Holiday Inn were looking to extend their recent good form, while Nanai Boys were still after their first win of the season. Holiday Inn took the lead, but Nanai Boys pulled one back before the break. In the second half the game became physical with several yellow cards given out, as both teams were eager for points. But it was Nanai Boys who clinched a late goal, rewarding them with a 2-1 win – their first this year.

Division 2 Seduction v Big Apple & Pita: 4 – 2 Seduction went clear at the top of Division 2 after a comeback against the young guns of Big Apple & Pita. Mr Moo v Bat Fire: 6 – 0 The football gods continue to breath life back into Mr Moo as they clinched their second victory in as many games, putting them back on track this season. Atmanjai v Phuket Serenity Villas : 5 – 7 Phuket Serenity Villas applied pressure on the top as they piled more misery on Atmanjai, who have lost their last four games on the trot. Irish Times v Blue D Zine PSU FC: 2 – 1 Irish Times remain one of the favourites as they inched out a win against the boys from PSU. Division 3 Gang Junior v Fruit Ninjas: 4–2 Fruit Ninjas lost their second game in a row, although they remained in second spot on the table and only a single point behind the division leaders. Gang Junior showed their intent to climb the table, fielding a stronger crew than before – a move that helped them to an

SUPER SIX SOCCER Division 1

Team

Joy Dive FC

Pts 16

Morning Star

Phuket Condos & Homes

Banana FC A

Pita Bar Phuketeers

Shakers FC

-4

Nanai Boys

-8

Holiday Inn FC

-16

Pts

Division 2

Team

Seduction

Phuket Serenity Villas

Irish Times

Atmanjai

-4

Big Apple & Pita

-3

Blue D Zine PSU FC

Mr Moo

-6

Bat Fire

-10

Pts

Division 3

Team

Russia United

Fruit Ninjas

Rose United

FC Raya Group Asia

Two Chefs

-17

Banana FC B

-8

Gang Junior

-6

Crown Plaza Panwa FC

-14

impressive win. Two Chefs v FC Raya Group Asia: 4 – 3 Two Chefs emerged with a surprise 4-3 victory against high-flyers Raya Group, who lost the chance to narrow the

gap at the top of the table. Russia United v Crown Plaza Panwa FC: 3 – 4 In another surprise result, tablejumbos Crown Plaza eked out another 4-3 result against table toppers Russia United.

Kalim A win Smile Kids tournament

SCHOOLS LEAGUE O14 category

Team

Pts

British International

HeadStart

Kajonkietsuksa

-10

Ban Talad Nua

Darasamuth

-33

Pts

U13 category

Team

Darasamuth

British International

HeadStart

-1

Ban Talad Nua

-9

Kajonkietsuksa

-16

Team

Pts

Darasamuth

British International

Kajonkietsuksa

Ban Talad Nua

HeadStart

-13

Pts

U10 A category

U10 B category

Team

Darasamuth

HeadStart

British International

Kajonkietsuksa

-8

FOOTBALL YOUNG FOOTBALLERS from across the island took part in the Smile Kids Club’s 1st Against Drugs football tournament at Kalim School in Patong on Saturday, March 2. Six primary school football teams, including teams from Sainamyen School, Wat Suwan School in Thalang, and three teams from Kalim School, took part in the competition. Kalim School’s team A won the tournament competition, securing the final against Sainamyen School with a penalty kick that took the score to 5-4.

Kalim team A (in blue) and the Sainamyen team at the Smile Kids Club tournament.

The most active club in Phuket RESULTS:

O14 British International 15 – 0

Darasamuth

U13 British International 3 – 3

Darasamuth

U10A British International 2 – 2

Darasamuth

U10B British International 0 – 0

Darasamuth

with monthly events. Retail outlet at Wana Park, Cherng Talay (Manik). To join the club or see our products visit andaman-wine-club.com

30 WORLD SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

PREMIER LEAGUE PREDICTIONS: WEEK 30

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

THIS YEAR’S GRAND PRIZE IS SPONSORED BY:

Kagawa hat-trick sends Utd clear FOOTBALL

apan international Shinji Kagawa hit a hat-trick as Manchester United waged a 4-nil rout of Norwich that sent them 15 points clear in the Premier League. Kagawa claimed his first goal in first half stoppage time, beating Norwich goalkeeper Mark Bunn with a near-post volley. He then doubled United’s tally 14 minutes from time, and completed his treble in the 87th minute. Wayne Rooney got on the score-sheet in the final minute with a beautiful strike into the top-left corner from outside the box. Tottenham striker Gareth Bale stole the spotlight as Spurs secured a crucial 2-1 win over Arsenal. Bale scored in the first half at White Hart Lane before Aaron Lennon doubled Tottenham’s lead moments later. Per Mertesacker replied early in the second half, but Tottenham hung on for the win – they are now unbeaten

in their last 12 league games. Carlos Tevez kept Manchester City’s faint title hopes alive by taking the champions to a 1-0 win at struggling Aston Villa. Tevez struck on the stroke of half-time after Villa’s Ciaran Clark gifted possession to Edin Dzeko, who set up his team-mate to beat goalkeeper Brad Guzan. Chelsea drew a line beneath manager Rafael Benitez’s scolding of the club’s fans by winning 1-0 at home to West Brom. Oscar and Juan Mata both went close for Chelsea in the early stages before Demba Ba scored the only goal in the 28th minute, hooking home from six yards after David Luiz headed Oscar’s deep cross from the left back across goal. Liverpool’s Luis Suarez improved his tally for the Premier League season to 21 goals in a 4-0 win at Wigan. Stewart Downing’s headed opener put Liverpool in front inside two minutes and Suarez struck twice, once before half-time and then early in the second half. Jack Collison gave West Ham United a 1-0 win at Stoke City, striking in first-half stop-

Man United’s Shinji Kagawa. Photo: AFP/Andrew Yates page time to give West Ham their first away win since November. Bottom club Queens Park Rangers boosted their bid to avoid relegation by winning 2-1 at Southampton. Jay Bothroyd tapped in a cross from Park Ji-sung in the 77th minute to give QPR the victory at St Mary’s, after Loic Remy’s 14th-minute opener was cancelled out by Gaston Ramirez’ goal on the stroke of half-time. Reading suffered a setback

in their fight to avoid relegation in a 3-1 defeat at Everton. Marouane Fellaini broke a deadlock with a 42nd-minute header, and Steven Piennar made it 2-0 in the 59th minute. Pienaar then created Everton’s third in the 66th minute with a through-ball converted by Kevin Mirallas, before Hal Robson-Kanu replied for the Royals. Sunderland came from two goals down to draw 2-2 at home to Fulham at the Stadium of Light. A Dimitar Berbatov penalty and a Sascha Riether strike put the visitors 2-0 up inside 35 minutes, but Craig Gardner reduced the arrears from the penalty spot and Stephane Sessegnon claimed a 70thminute equaliser. Elsewhere, an 85th-minute Luke Moore goal earned League Cup winners Swansea City a 1-0 win at home to Newcastle United, pushing victims Newcastle back towards the danger zone. In The Phuket News tipping competition: congratulations to player colinsmith99 who led the February table with 73 points, eight points ahead of challenger

TOM’S TIPS WEEK 31 West Ham v Man United Arsenal v Everton Man City v Wigan Newcastle v Stoke Norwich v Southampton QPR v Sunderland Reading v Aston Villa West Brom v Swansea Fulham v Chelsea Liverpool v Tottenham

Lose Win Win Win Win Lose Win Draw Lose Lose

THIS MONTH'S COMPETITION IS SUPPORTED BY:

MONTHLY STANDINGS

OVERALL STANDINGS

1. Damian 32 2. jigdellasoul 24 3. jwiegand 24 4. Ping 24 5. Tom Metcalfe 24 6. alanphuket 21 7. chasman 21 8. diggersd 21 9. fazza 21 10. HugsThailand 21

1. suncat100 560 2. Blackrosebar 513 3. diggersd 508 4. scottkip 504 5. mickyleeds 502 6. alanphuket 500 7. Ping 494 8. toptipster 493 9. gafferworld 486 10. fazza 485

Paul614724. In the overall standings, suncat100 is still atop the table with 560 points, stretching his lead slightly over the closest challenger Blackrosebar on 513. This month (March 2013) the competition is sponsored

by Australia Bar & Grill in Kata. 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.

TIME FOR TEE: One of the competitors at the first day of the Phuket Pro Golf Challenge, held at the Phuket Country Club in Kathu on Saturday. The first tournament day was won by Australian pro Shaun Mallone after a play-off for first place against English pro Matthew Richardson. The next tournament day will be on Saturday, April 2, at Laguna Phuket Golf Club. For more information contact the tournament organiser Kobchai Peerapairroj on 081 691 3467.

Over 90 Cities, One Perfect Gateway. SilkAir and Singapore Airlines Connecting you to Places.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

WORLD SPORT 31

Madrid’s wonderful week FOOTBALL

heir 2-1 Champions League victory over Manchester United may have been controversial but it topped a fantastic eight days for Real Madrid that have potentially saved their season. Just over a week ago Jose Mourinho’s Spanish champions looked set to end the current campaign without a major trophy. Lagging 16 points behind bitter rivals Barcelona in the league, they also faced an uphill task against Barca and United after only managing 1-1 draws in the home legs of their Copa del Rey and Champions League ties respectively. But back-to-back wins over a below-par Barca secured progress to the Copa final and closed the gap in La Liga to boost morale before the most important date of all on Tuesday at Old Trafford. Mourinho’s relationship with many of his senior players has been far from ideal this season and remains so unstable that the Portuguese still seems certain to leave at the end of the season. Yet for now the club have been galvanised by a common

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho seeks “La Decima” – the club’s 10th European Cup. goal – European glory. For over a decade Madrid have chased “La Decima” – their 10th European Cup – whilst Mourinho himself is after the personal glory of becoming the first man to

Live Sports TV Schedule

CHANNEL GUIDE

CHANNEL START

END

SPORT

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

Friday, March 8 816, 107

13:25

15:20 Rugby Union

Super 15

Hurricanes v Crusaders

15:20

17:15 Rugby Union

Super 15

Rebels v Reds

11:15

18:30

Test, Day 1

Sri Lanka v Bangladesh

Cricket

Saturday, March 9 816, 107

15:30

15:35

17:30 Rugby Union

17:30 816, 107

816, 107

Rugby League

13:30

21:20

19:15 Rugby Union 23:30 Rugby Union

NRL

Eels v Warriors

Super 15

Brumbies v Waratahs

Super 15 Six Nations

23:50

02:00 Rugby Union

Six Nations

19:15

Welsh Cup 21:15 Rugby Union Anglo Final

Highlanders v Cheetahs Scotland v Wales Ireland v France Harlequins v Bath

812, 103

22:00

00:00

Soccer

EPL

West Brom v Swansea

813, 101

22:00

00:00

Soccer

EPL

Reading v Aston Villa

817

22:00

00:00

Soccer

EPL

QPR v Sunderland

102

22:00

00:00

Soccer

EPL

Norwich v Southampton

817

19:30

21:30

Soccer

FA Cup

Everton v Wigan

00:30

02:30

Soccer

FA Cup

Man City v Barnsley

11:15

18:30

Cricket

Test, Day 2

Sri Lanka v Bangladesh

Super 15

Blues v Bulls

NRL

Sharks v Titans

Six Nations

England v Italy

Sunday, March 10 816, 107

10:00

12:00 Rugby Union Rugby League

14:30

16:30

816, 107

21:50

00:00 Rugby Union

103

22:00

00:00

Soccer

EPL

Newcastle v Stoke

817, 101

23:00

01:00

Soccer

EPL

Liverpool v Tottenham

11:15

15:00

Cricket

Test, Day 3

Sri Lanka v Bangladesh

15:00

21:00

Cricket

ODI 1

South Africa v Pakistan

Team

campaign to again validate Mourinho’s pursuit of him in the close season. And Modric wasn’t the only relative newcomer who played a starring role at Old Trafford. Goalkeeper Diego Lopez was only signed in late January after Iker Casillas suffered a serious hand injury. The rise of 19-year-old centre-back Raphael Varane since he secured a place in the side thanks to Pepe’s injury at the turn of the year has also been remarkable. How much Mourinho’s reliance on three new faces at such a pivotal point in the season is merely down to circumstance or his genius very much depends on an evaluation of the self-styled “special one”. What is for certain, though, is that those new additions – added to the confidence of coming through a potentially season-ending week with flying colours – make Madrid an even more dangerous proposition for whoever is unfortunate enough to be paired with them when the quarter-final draw is made in Nyon next Friday. AFP

Spanish Primera Liga

English Premier League

1XX- True Vision, 8XX - Astra; 8 - Setanta

*Times may be subject to change

team had lost”. British newspapers, when not picking over Turkish referee Cuneyt Cakir’s highly disputed decision to send off United winger Nani, certainly interpreted his modesty as

lead three different clubs to European football’s top prize. However, his uncertain future in Madrid also left many cynical when analysing his post-match conclusions in Manchester that “the best

a sign that he has an eye on Alex Ferguson’s job when the veteran manager retires. A return to England would appear to be former Chelsea boss Mourinho’s most likely destination and for all the deference and respect he continues to show Ferguson, he has given the impression that being the Scot’s successor is the job he most craves. Forgetting the touchline antics, mind games and media posturing, though, it is on the field that Mourinho has again proved himself in the past week. His gameplans against Barcelona exposed the Catalans’ weaknesses in the most efficient manner and even accounting for their one-man advantage, his decision to introduce Modric after the red card swung the game decisively in Real’s favour. Madrid took full advantage of the extra man, as Modric found the net and former United favourite Cristiano Ronaldo sealed a 3-2 aggregate victory. The Croatian has endured a difficult first season at Madrid after his big money move from Tottenham Hotspur. But on the biggest stage of all he produced his most significant contribution of the

Pts

Manchester United

Barcelona

Manchester City

Atlético Madrid

Tottenham Hotspur

Real Madrid

Chelsea

Málaga

Arsenal

Valencia

Everton

Real Sociedad

Liverpool

Real Betis

Swansea City

Rayo Vallecano

West Bromwich Albion

Getafe

Fulham

Sevilla

Stoke City

Levante

West Ham United

Real Valladolid

Norwich City

Espanyol

Sunderland

Athletic Bilbao

Newcastle United

Osasuna

Southampton

Granada

Wigan Athletic

Real Zaragoza

Aston Villa

Celta de Vigo

Reading

Mallorca

Queens Park Rangers

Deportivo La Coruña

RESULTS Chelsea Everton Manchester United Southampton Stoke City

1–0 3–1 4–0 1–2 0 – 1

West Brom Reading Norwich City Queens Park Rangers West Ham United

Sunderland Swansea City Wigan Athletic Tottenham Hotspur Aston Villa

2–2 1–0 0–4 2–1 0–1

Fulham Newcastle United Liverpool Arsenal Manchester City

Team

RESULTS Getafe Real Madrid Deportivo Osasuna Valencia

2 – 0 2 – 1 0 – 0 0 – 1 2 – 2

Real Zaragoza Barcelona Rayo Vallecano Athletic Bilbao Levanteo

Granada Espanyol Málaga Real Sociedad Sevilla

1 – 2 0 – 0 0 – 0 3 – 3 4 – 1

Mallorc Real Valladolid Atlético Madrid Real Betis Celta de Vigo

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Sport

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2013

Island kids get under sail Phuket Sailing Club seeks more hands on deck > 28

editor2@thephuketnews.com

Phuket FC defuse Big Bang Phuket FC’s Nene Bi Tra Sylvestre (No. 31) scores the equaliser. Photo: Worawut SEA

FOOTBALL Kazira Hans editor2@thephuketnews.com

huket FC earned a draw in their first game of t hei r 2013 s e a s on against Big Bang Chula United (BBCU) FC in Bangkok. The away match at BBCU’s temporary home at Army Stadium in Bangkok also saw the season’s first goal for Phuket FC from Ivorian star player Nene Bi Tra Sylvestre – his 19th league goal for the Islanders, all the more remarkable because Nene is also one of the cornerstones of Phuket FC’s defence. BBCU were seen as a tough first draw for the Islanders – it was BBCU’s first Yamaha League 1 game since they were relegated from the Thai Premier League last season. Phuket FC’s Head Coach

Paniphol “Coach Tuu” Kerdyaem said he was pleased with the result, although Big Bang’s change of tactics in the second half had caused trouble for Phuket FC’s midfielders and strikers. “[Our] footballers stuck to the plan. We talked about how to shut down their key midfielder, number 9 Bouba Abbo, and we pretty much shut him down and stopped his game. “But I saw our problems, too. During the first half we played safe, we were careful and we defended deep in our half, which meant more chances for BBCU to play in front of our penalty area, which cost us a goal from a set play. “The other problem was that if we packed our defense deep in our half, then it was more difficult for us when it came to a counter-attack, where speed

is the key.” Coach Tuu said those tactics would have to change for the next game against Bangkok FC at Surakul Stadium on Sunday (March 10) and the following match against Sriracha Suzuki FC. “[Bangkok FC] are strong. They had an away game and banged up Nakhonratchasima FC pretty bad. “They have stars like Lee Tuck up front and former Thai Port midfielder Olof Watson to control the game. “[Olof] is good and strong, but I believe that if we play like we did with Big Bang, with a little better coordination and control of the game, we will have a good chance to win. “The next two games are very important. We have two strong opponents, Bangkok FC and Sriracha Suzuki FC, but our advantage is we get to

play at home. I hope to win, and by end of March we will know where we stand, be it on top of the table or in the middle,” said Coach Tuu. When Phuket FC debuted in their first Yamaha League 1 game on Saturday there was another surprise for the fans: the squad weren’t wearing either of their official new Phuket FC strips – green and white, or red and black – but were dressed entirely in white. It turns out the fashion statement was the result of a special request from Coach Tuu, who enjoyed good luck when one of his previous team dressed in all-white uniforms for their first game – and so special all-white Phuket FC uniforms were made for Saturday’s squad, ordered and delivered within 72 hours of the kick-off. Pichet Innbang and former Muang Thong United and

Bangkok Glass FC midfielder Moussa Sylla spearheaded the attack for Big Bang at Army Stadium on Saturday. Big Bang took the lead after 23 minutes from a free-kick by Bouba Abbo to Pichet Innbang, who fired in a three-yard shot past keeper Kampon Pathomakkakul into the net. Wasting no time and never cracking under repeated pressure, Phuket FC sought an equaliser. It came when a free kick from Sakareya was lobbed forward and fell neatly in front of the BBCU goal, where Nene Bi jumped the quickest to score with a header past the opposition keeper. The second half saw plenty of chances for both teams to win, but neither side was able to convert their attempts into another goal. As the final whistle drew close, the home side dramati-

cally scored with a free kick. But before they could celebrate, the referee called a foul and disallowed the goal. Indeed, the home side were even reduced to 10 men just before the final whistle, when Bunyarit Pathomtas was sent off after a heavy tackle. The game ended 1-1, the first point in the 2013 Yamaha League 1 for both teams. Phuket FC play Bangkok FC at Surakul Stadium on Sunday (March 10) with kickoff at 6.30pm. Tickets are B100 at the gate and free for children in school uniform or under 120 cm in height – an initiative by Phuket FC Chairman Pamuke Atchariyachai to encourage school children to get involved in football. For more information on Phuket FC, visit facebook.com/ officialphuketfc

Ref assaulted by Rayong FC mob Thai Premier League referee Thanom Borikut.

DEFEATED IN THEIR FIRST GAME at home this weekend in a 1-2 loss to Airforce AVA FC, enraged Rayong FC fans took it out on the game’s referee, Thanom Borikut. Upset with the result of the Thai Premier League (TPL) match, and accusing him of not being fair, a group of Rayong fans charged at Mr Thanom as the unfortunate referee was leaving the stadium after the game.

“At first a group of angry fans surrounded the referee after the game ended and demanded explanations from Thanom,” said Suwit Nim-onnom, the match commissioner, who witnessed the incident. “Then about 10 to 20 men came from behind us as we were getting to our vehicles, attempting to attack Thanom. We tried to stop them but we were outnumbered and could only

hold some of them off.” “The other [fans] went to Thanom and punched him in the face with force that almost threw Thanom off his feet. I tried to call security staff but they had left the stadium and gone home. There were only a few team staff around who helped stop the enraged fans” “Even after Thanom got in his car to drive off, those fans went to his car and vandalised it before Thanom

escaped,” Mr Suwit said. Mr Suwit thinks that fans were angry at Thanom because he had given Rayong FC’s star player Prawet Horcharoen a red card in the match. TPL President Dr Wichit Yaemboonrueang said the attack was a very serious offense against a TPL referee, and Rayong FC would be punished by the league authorities without any probation or appeal.