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Chef Noi doubles down on Suay in Cherng Talay Tourist Police arrive at Bangkok Hospital Phuket to question Michael Laverty about his ‘ordeal’. Photo: Phuket Tourist Police
BRIT COUPLE FLEE TO DUBAI AS ‘VIOLENT ATTACK’ PLEA FOR FUNDRAISING EXPOSED AS FAKE Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th
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he British man who claimed his leg was broken when he was mugged at gunpoint in a violent attack in Phuket last week fled the island with his wife on Tuesday (Nov 7) before police could present him with CCTV evidence showing him jumping from a hotel balcony in Patong. Michael Laverty, a 50-year-old Army veteran, and his wife Denise, both from Newton Aycliffe, Durham,
northeast England, launched a fundraising campaign to pay for hospital bills after Mr Laverty suffered multiple leg fractures. In the plea to raise funds on the popular Crowdfunder website, it was claimed that Mr Laverty sustained his injuries in a vicious mugging in Phuket last Thursday (Nov 2) just hours after the couple landed on the island to celebrate Mr Laverty’s 50th birthday. However, Phuket Tourist Police confirmed to The Phuket News On Tuesday that CCTV footage from the
hotel where Mr Laverty was injured showed him plainly jumping over a first-floor balcony rail – unassisted – to fall six to seven metres below at about 12:10am on Nov 3. “Staff heard him screaming and ran to help. They called a rescue team which soon arrived and took him to Patong Hospital,” Capt Ekkachai Siri of the Phuket Tourist Police explained to The Phuket News on Tuesday. Mr Laverty was transferred to Bangkok Hospital Phuket in Phuket Town last Saturday (Nov 4), he added. Later last Saturday morning,
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Mr Laverty’s wife, Denise, called the Tourist Police hotline 1155 to report that her husband had been attacked by three or four Thai men, Capt Ekkachai explained. “It was reported that he was robbed and his watch was stolen at the Thara Patong Beach Resort & Spa. We were told that he wanted to file a report for his medical insurance provider, so I went to see him at Bangkok Hospital Phuket (on Nov 4),” he recalled. “However, when I questioned witnesses during my investigation...
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Ponet brings FMD champion ‘katana’ home
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Foundations, shrines urged to become legal PH U K ET G OV E R NOR Norraphat Plodthong last week led a meeting of hundreds of representatives from charity foundations and associations and even the organising committees of shrines across the island to “discuss” getting them legally registered. Also in attendance at the meeting, held on Nov 2 at the Phuket Provincial Office at Provincial Hall, were Phuket Vice Governor Snith Sriwihok and Phuket Provincial Office Chief Administrative Officer (Palad) Sakchai Kunanuwatchaiyadech, along with scores of “relevant officers”. “There are 120 foundations, 188 associations and 44 shrines (in Phuket),” Palad Sakchai noted. However, Mr Sakchai pointed out that only 10 shrines in Phuket were registered with the Department of Provincial Administration. “Thirty-four are not reg-
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
Supreme Court rules beachfront land returned to public > page 5
Gaining momentum
‘Smart Bus’ prototype test this month Shela Riva reporter1@classactmedia.co.th
Governor Norraphat led the meeting, but left the talking to everyone else. Photo: PR Dept istered. The meeting today is to discuss problems and give opinions,” he said. Of note, a PR Dept Phuket office report of the meeting specifically obliqued naming Chinese shrines that may or may not be legally registered, while the official program of events published by the Tourism Authority of Thailand for this year’s Vegetarian Festival named 25 Chinese shrines that took part in the festival, which drew to a close on Oct 28 – just five days before the meeting. The Phuket News
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he finished prototype of Phuket’s much-awaited public transport “Smart Bus” is to be tested in Phuket this month after it was launched at an exhibition at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) last week. The “Smart Bus” prototype was launched at the ‘Bus and Truck’ section of the 14th Commercial Vehicle and Special Technology Exhibition held at BITEC from Nov 2-4. The presentation of the new bus included a demonstration of its built-in electronic wheelchair lift for the disabled, and a showcase of the integrated technology such as built-in Wi-Fi, GPS, and an electronic ticketing system which can be used via a sup-
The buses have Wi-Fi, GPS, electronic ticketing via a mobile application, and an electronic wheelchair lift to assist the disabled. Photo: PKCD porting mobile application. Phuket City Development Co Ltd (PKCD) Executive Director Watchara Jaruariyanon, Managing Director Dr Phadhip Chinda and Executive Vice President of Loxley Co Ltd Chalermchok Lamsam led the demonstration and team
test of the “Smart Bus” and its mobile application, which aims to promote the progress of public transport in Phuket. “Phuket Smart Bus Company (PKSB) as a subsidiary of PKCD is ready to test the bus in Phuket island during the month of November. Then, in
2018, we will begin to introduce more and more smart buses to Phuket,” said Mr Watchara. The Phuket News contacted the PKCD office regarding the exact dates the tests will be conducted in Phuket, however, no one at PKCD was available to comment.
CCTV exposes violent mugging claim Continued from page 1 ...I found that his account of what happened did not match with what the witnesses told me. For example, hotel staff found his watch near where he landed on the ground. In fact, his watch is still here with me,” Capt Eakkachai said. “Also, CCTV from the resort shows the couple arriving in the lobby, then Mr Laverty goes up to the first floor and starts checking doors while walking along the balcony,” Capt Ekkachai noted. The CCTV footage then shows Mr Laverty placing a
Michael and Denise Laverty left the island before police could show them the CCTV footage. Photo: Facebook foot on top of the balcony rail before launching himself over the side. Capt Ekkachai noted that the couple were not even guests at the Thara Patong Beach
Resort & Spa. Instead, they were staying at the Swissôtel Resort Phuket Patong Beach. “I went back to question Mr Laverty again today, but he had been discharged from the hospital. I believe their medical treatment was paid, somehow. Now, they have left Phuket,” he added. According to Phuket Immigration, the Lavertys left Phuket on Emirates Flight EK397, which departed Phuket at 9:22am on Tuesday and was scheduled to land at Dubai International Airport at 12:57pm the same day.
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Roads deliver horror holiday
Aussie tourist may not need leg amputated, say doctors Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th
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octors at Vachira Phuket Hospital in Phuket Town have dismissed reports that they may have to amputate Australian tourist Stacey Liddle’s left leg, which was crushed by a bus after a collision near Chalong Circle last Thursday (Oct 26). Ms Liddle, from Brisbane, was riding a rental motorbike when she and a passing tour bus collided. She was knocked to the road and the bus’ back wheels crushed her left leg. Ms Liddle was in Phuket on holiday to celebrate her 30th birthday. Dr Kritsada Chairattanaphitak, Vachira Hospital’s Medical Specialist in Hand and Microsurgery, told The Phuket News last Friday (Nov 3), “We have performed several operations on Ms Liddle’s leg as it suffered multiple fractures and severe damage in the accident. “There is no need to consider amputation unless there is an infection or complication – and at this stage there is neither. The nerves are still there and currently there is no infection,” he added. “Her leg is still recovering, it is getting better,” Dr Kritsada assured.
Australian tourist Stacey Liddle is unlikely to need to have her leg amputated say doctors at Vachira Phuket Hospital, following her devastating motorbike accident in Chalong last week. Photo: via Katrina Liddle / GoFundMe FUNDRAISING Following the accident, an appeal for donations to help pay for Ms Liddle’s medical bills was launched on GoFundMe. com as her travel insurance company had refused to cover medical expenses as Ms Liddle’s policy did not cover injury through accidents while riding a motorbike. In short, Ms Liddle was not licensed to ride a motorbike in Thailand. There has been some confusion of how much funds were being sought to have Ms Liddle flown home “so they don’t amputate her leg”. News.com.au initially reported the amount sought as $15,000 (B381,393), while
the GoFundMe post itself continues to ask for $30,000 while the “goal” set for the campaign remains at $35,000 (B890,149). Donations by 77 people saw $3,466 (B88,132) raised in the campaign’s first three days. However, after intensive media coverage of Ms Liddle’s plight, donations surged to $20,925 little more than 48 hours later. Meanwhile, Chalong Police have yet to attribute any blame for the accident, which may introduce compensation paid out under the insurance of the driver deemed at fault. Maj Kanan Somrak of Chalong Police Investigation Division told The Phuket
News, “We have yet to press any charges as we are still investigating the accident.” MALFEASANCE However, media coverage in Australia and even by local news outlets in Phuket have not questioned the accusations publicly posted in the appeal on GoFundMe, which accuses hospital staff of hitting Ms Liddle and the Australian Embassy and Consulate staff of failing to provide assistance. “She is being hit and mistreated in the Thailand hospital, we have been in contact with both the Australian and Thailand governments (counsulate) they will not do anything to help…,” claimed the appeal
posted on GoFundMe. Nurse Methavee Maneesri, Head of the International Department at Vachira Hospital, which is the leading government hospital on the island, told The Phuket News last Friday that the hospital was unaware of the claims. “We didn’t know about it,” she said, and declined to comment further on the matter. However, Nurse Methavee did confirm that the hospital received B30,000 paid out under the statutory government motorbike insurance coverage. SUPPORT Meanwhile, The Phuket News has independently confirmed that local Australian consular officials are providing assistance to Ms Liddle – just not the extent of assistance that is being sought on her behalf. A spokesperson for Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed, “The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance to an Australian woman injured in Thailand. For privacy reasons we are unable to provide further details.” DFAT notes that consular assistance may include liaison with or visits to local hospitals, liaison with local authorities, provision of lists
of medical providers and assistance communicating with family members or nominated contacts. “Consular staff cannot provide medical services or medications, pay for medical costs or query treatment regimens on behalf of Australians overseas. Smartraveller [the Australian Government travel advisory service] outlines what to do if someone is unwell overseas,” the agency said. The Australian Government has campaigned for years for Australian tourists visiting Phuket and anywhere else in Thailand to beware the country’s notorious road safety record, often reported as recognised by the United Nations as the “second-worst in the world”. “Travel insurance, or medical insurance, is absolutely essential,” noted Craig Ferguson in a special report earlier this year introducing him as Australia’s first Consul-General in Phuket with jurisdiction throughout the provinces of Phuket, Krabi and Phang Nga. “The Australian government won’t pay for medical costs overseas and I have seen cases where families have had to sell assets such as houses in order to pay for high-cost medical treatment and repatriations,” he said.
Shooting range ordered to close deemed ‘too dangerous’ THE OW NER OF A SHOOTing range in Karon that opened earlier this year has been ordered to close the range immediately by the Director of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) Phuket office. Speaking to The Phuket News last Thursday (Nov 2), SAT Director Virat Patee said, “They have been ordered to close down immediately. “There are several reasons. First,
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there were many concerns raised by locals about noise and safety. People do not feel comfortable with the range being where it is,” he said. “It is in a public town space, along a main road, so it is noisy. Moreover, there is no safety or check zone, you can enter and there are just people shooting guns,” he explained. “Maybe if it were located further
within streets there would not be this problem,” he said. Mr Virat also elaborated that although the owner, Somjit Sujaritcheewawong, had a permit to open the shooting range, he had obtained it from Krabi. “It is not against the law to obtain a licence from another province according to Section 53 of the Firearms Act,” he explained.
“However, he did not specify that he would be opening a shooting range to Karon Municipality when he applied to open a business. It was said to be an office, or something similar. “This is not right. I asked him why would you do something like that?” said Mr Virat. Mr Virat also added that Mr Somjit had attempted to open a
The permit to open the shooting range was obtained in Krabi. Photo: SAT Phuket office shooting range in Kamala last year, which was also ordered to close. Shela Riva
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Workers repair huge sinkhole A LARGE SINKHOLE IN Thepkrasattri Rd that opened beside a busy bridge over Bang Yai Canal in Phuket Town late last month from flood damage has been repaired, local council workers have confirmed. The sinkhole, big enough for grown men to stand in, developed right beside the bridge near the Komaraphat Intersection. The hole was filled and repaved on Oct 27, confirmed Arjin Tunyongthong of Phuket City Municipality’s engineering division. Shela Riva
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‘Cash for crabs’ job ad spurs call for protection Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th
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ocal marine conservationists from the Healthy Reefs Club are urging people to stop collecting hermit crabs and the shells the crabs use for their homes from Phuket’s beaches and those on nearby islands. “Stop collecting natural hermit crabs from now before they become extinct. Is it fair to collect natural hermit crabs as a way for a group of people to make money? Nature should be left alone,” the Healthy Reefs Club, a member of the Andaman Conservationist Club of Thailand Conservationist Network, posted on its Facebook page last Wednesday (Nov 1).
The call to stop collecting hermit crabs and shells follows a post on Facebook offering to pay people to collect them. “We understand that many people like to have hermit crabs to keep as for themselves (as pets), but they are taking the hermit crabs from the beaches and islands. This causes ecological destruction.
“How many people are collecting hermit crabs compared with how many hermit crabs are breeding naturally? Having hermit crabs is not wrong, but they should not do that,” the message added.
The call follows a post on the #PHUKET WORK Facebook group offering to pay people to collect hermit crabs. An administrator of the Healthy Reefs Club Facebook page told The Phuket News, “The post was looking for people who live in Phuket to collected hermit crabs on beaches. It said they will get B10,000 to B20,000 per week,” the administrator said. The Healthy Reefs Club has long campaigned for greater protection of the marine animals in and around Phuket, including a campaign in 2015 called “Return homes back to hermit crabs” that encouraged people not to collect shells which are home to hermit crabs.
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OFFICIALS FROM THE Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) last Wednesday (Nov 1) began their public-awareness campaign to inform tourists and local residents that from the beginning of February any persons caught smoking on Patong Beach may face a fine of up to B100,000 – or even up to one year in jail – under environmental protection law. So far the ban is to be introduced at 24 beaches in the country, but in Phuket only at Patong Beach. Until further notice, the ban is not to apply to any other beaches on the island, with DMCR Director-General Jatuporn Buruspat assuring The Phuket News that fines will be levied after a 90-day “grace period”, starting from Nov 1. The heavy penalties have started a storm of debate online, with some people voicing their full support for the move, while others say the penalties are far too heavy for
The heavy penalties for being caught smoking on Patong Beach have spurred a huge debate online. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot such an offense. To this, The Phuket News asks readers, “How serious should the beach smoking ban be?” Responses available in the poll are: 1) I fully support the ban and the penalties. The ban with these penalties should be enforced at all beaches. 2) I support the ban, but the new heavy penalties are outrageous. Police have for years already had the option of fining people B2,000 for littering. 3) It’s ridiculous. There should be no ban on smoking at beaches at all. To vote in the poll, visit ThePhuketNews.com and select “Poll” from the “News” menu before Nov 20. thephuketnews
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starts Supreme Court orders Immigration new online service pristine beach returned Suthicha Sirirat editor@classactmedia.co.th
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ix people have been ordered to vacate 178 rai of land, covering three kilometres of beachfront stretching from Layan to Lay Phang beach on Phuket’s west coast – with an estimated total value of more than B10 billion – following a Supreme Court ruling against their claims to the land. Lt Col Montree Boonyayotin, Director of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) Natural Resources and Environment Crime Litigation division, broke the news at a meeting held at Cherng Talay Tambon Administrative Organisation (OrBorTor) last Thursday (Nov 2). In order to have the occupants vacate the land, Col Montree said, “We have to cooperate with other government offices to post notices to evict the people from the area. “If these people refuse to vacate the land, arrest warrants will be requested to take action,” he warned. “They will be taken to
The three-kilometres of beachfront land has been handed back to the public by order of the Supreme Court. Photo: Suthicha Sirirat Bangkok. If there are any arrests, we will petition the court for bail to be denied. Officers can take action against any person who encroaches on this land after this,” Col Montree noted. The land in question was declared a public area under the Land Administration Division in 2001, he added. After the announcement, there were nine cases of people opposing the declaration. Later the people behind six of these cases instigated legal action, Col Montree explained. Col Montree named four of the plaintiffs as Orapan Ploy-
petch, Sodsai Ongsritrakul, Pitak Boonpotjanasoonthorn and Sawat Thongpaiyut. The legal action was brought against the Land Department, the Phuket Provincial Office, the Thalang District Chief, the Phuket Land Office Chief and Thalang Land Office officials. “With the three other cases, people did not take any legal action. The DSI is considering these as special cases,” Col Montree said. Cherng Talay OrBorTor Chief MaAnn Samran noted, “There are still people encroaching on this land, using
Recovery of ‘stolen’ share-bikes begins OFO BIKE-SHARE, THE company that launched its services in Phuket Town in September, has retrieved about 100 bikes from people who had taken the bikes home, whether intentionally or out of misunderstanding, the company’s representatives have confirmed. “Of the 1,400 ofo bikes in Phuket, just over 100 have been stolen or taken home by people since the service began on Sept 20. About 110 bikes,” said Vishchawat Prukkingpet, one of two co-ordinators for ofo bikes in Phuket. The bikes started disap-
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An ofo bike stands parked beside Sakdidet Rd in Wichit, well outside the dedicated area of use in Phuket Town. Photo: Matthew Pond pearing soon after the launch, with several found dumped in canals in Phuket Town. The bikes are freely available for use under a free trial
that has now been extended until the end of the year. “We have been able to retrieve around 100 of them. About 10 remain due to the person not being home when we went to retrieve them,” he added. “There’s never been any problems, they just return the bikes when we explain to them that they are for the public. “Some people think that the Governor has given them bicycles for free. They genuinely do not understand how it is used,” he said. Shela Riva
it to benefit from tourism by having businesses such as restaurants.” Mr MaAnn explained that a NorSor 3 Gor land document was presented to the court as evidence to claim the land. “After that Thalang Land Office requested to register all 178 rai as a public area… However, it was later found that the NorSor 3 Gor presented had been cancelled in 1984,” he said. “The case has been all the way up to the Supreme Court. The verdict was handed down… that the land belongs to the public,” Mr MaAnn said.
PH U K E T I M M IG R Ation Chief Col Kathathorn Kumthieng has confirmed that the new online system to check the status of extensions for foreigner’s visa applications is now operational. Col Kathathorn told The Phuket News on Tuesday (Nov 7) that the system quietly went live online in September. “This system went online about two months ago as a way to make it more convenient for foreigners and to reduce congestion at the immigration office,” said Col Kathathorn. “It has helped noticeably in certain cases, such as when the expected end processing date of a visa permit-to-stay falls on a public holiday or long weekend, foreigners usually would have to come either the day prior the days off or afterwards, just to check the status of their application. “This makes the immigration office lines especially long and busy,” he said. “Furthermore, foreigners applying for long-term visa permits that must be approved by the Immigration Division in Hat Yai previously have had many problems of being unsure of what stage the ap-
Expats can now confirm whether Immigration has approved their permit-to-stay applications online. plication is at, or if it is even close to being processed. “Now they can check the status of applications being processed in Hat Yai much more conveniently and pick up the visa as soon as it is ready,” he said. “Also sometimes, the application is processed before the expected due date, in which case, it is very useful to have the option to know beforehand,” said Col Kathathorn. “It really helps to reduce a lot of confusion and wasted time.” The online system is at: http://www.phuketimmigration.go.th/c-visa/visa-a.php. Shela Riva
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EDITORIAL
So say the crowd?
he two online fundraising campaigns, launched by tourists injured in Phuket last week, serve as apt examples of both the good and bad potential of the crowdfunding phenomenon. Both verify that the values of selflessness and generosity – simply helping someone in need if you are in a position to do so – are alive and well. It also shows how easily heart-wrenching pleas for help can be cynically used to take advantage of people. Defrauding travel insurance is nothing new to Phuket, only a handful of years ago it was Australians capturing the headlines. Michael Laverty’s claims that he suffered a violent assault and robbery, quickly exposed as lies, have nonetheless rattled across UK websites, leaving a trail of vitriol about “dangerous Phuket” and “crowdfunding scammers”
It seems that Mr Laverty underestimated the Phuket Police, who despite their poor reputation here and abroad, did what they do best. No, not the high-tech, CSI-style crime fighting you see on TV – but simply using some good oldfashioned shoe leather. Bad eggs like Mr Laverty make it worse for the likes of Stacey Liddle, whose leg was crushed in a bike accident in Chalong that was not covered by her travel insurance. Stacey also launched a campaign to raise money for medical bills. Getting coverage for riding a motorbike in Thailand is difficult for a reason – insurance companies have run the numbers and know it’s not a money-making proposition. Stacey did what tens of thousands of visitors to Phuket do every day. She rented a motorbike from a company that did not require her to show
a licence. Rode it on Phuket’s notorious roads, which still lack any decent, cheap, reliable public transport alternative. Then the statistically inevitable happened and fate decreed her number was up. Crowdfunding will continue to be used as a de facto, post-accident insurance policy – whether with noble or lessthan-noble intentions. In the case of Mr Laverty, we hope that a message for aspiring fraudsters has been sent loud and clear. As for Stacey’s case, if her insurance provider doesn’t pay, why not drop a few dollars in her basket and get her home? Like any technology, whether crowdfunding is used for good or bad is up to the people using it. If you’re thinking of riding in Phuket sans licence and insurance, take a leaf out of the insurers’ well-balanced books – and don’t risk it.
TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
‘Violent attack’ on Brit tourist exposed as fake Brit Army veteran, 50, viciously attacked at gunpoint in Phuket Court orders B10bn, 3km beachfront land ‘returned to the public’ Phuket’s Patong Carnival gets underway Patong Police open road to two-way traffic to reduce traffic No Butts! Phuket beach cigarette ban to invoke B100k fine Kamala beach vendors set to face the music Aussie tourist Stacey Liddle’s leg ‘not to be amputated’, say doctors Phuket Poll: How serious should the beach smoking ban be? Phuket shooting range ordered to close
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HAVE YOUR SAY Strong support
Re: Patong Police open road to two-way traffic to reduce beachfront traffic I totally agree with this change. Traffic coming from Tri Trang can use the “third” road to get out of Patong or forward to Karon. I strongly support making it permanent. Lee ...................................................
Plastic problems
Re: Phuket Opinion: Many butts about it As a smoker I agree with the littering restrictions applied. My main concern is the amount of plastic bags and wrappings floating in the water. Thailand is the worst country for the sale of food with very little product but lots of wrapping to entice sales… with absolutely crazy environmental results. Martinus ...................................................
Making your bed
Re: Aussie tourist Stacey Liddle’s leg ‘not to be amputated’, say Phuket doctors It is a commonly known fact that travel insurance does not cover you on a motorbike
riding in Thailand. My guess is that Ms Liddle has little or no experience riding on the roads in Thailand and like so many tourists that come here, decided to chance it and came unstuck. I feel sorry for her to be in this predicament, but sorry to say, it is nobody’s fault but hers. Do not ride a motorbike in Thailand if you don’t know how to ride one. Here is not the place to try and learn. Or even if you do, the Thai traffic is a lot more hectic than you are probably used to back home. And to say she is being mistreated by hospital staff? I find this very hard to believe. Sounds like an attempt to pull at the heart strings of potential donors to her cause. Why should other people pay for your mistakes? I’m sorry but you made your bed, you lie in it. And don’t give foreigners a bad name by making up stories to try and get people to sympathise with your cause, it gives all of us a bad name. Roadhouse ...................................................
The real culprits?
Re: No Butts! Phuket beach cigarette ban to invoke
B100k fine, 90-day ‘grace campaign’ underway Wake up Thai people and stop trashing the nation. Illegal vendors selling food in Sirinath National Marine Park are a major source of garbage. Their styrofoam, plastic cups and implements cover the beach. Additionally, it appears park staff have a dump that sits right on a canal that feeds out into Layan Bay, twice a day at low tide it functions as a conveyor of trash into the sea. Christy Sweet So now we have a fine of B100,000 for dropping cigarette butts on the beach to go with one for falang tourists playing Wonderwall on guitar in a bar… oh, and no lifeguards. What next? A sign at the arrivals section of the airport saying, “Tourists go home – you’re not welcome here”? Andy Phillips ...................................................
Tarnished image
Re: Supreme Court orders B10bn, 3km beachfront Phuket land to be ‘returned to the public’ We had a bad low season due
to poor communication by the TAT in the past year. All hoteliers where happy that the new high season has finally started that these people in Bangkok find it necessary to again start to bring Phuket and his beaches into the media in a bad way. They had the past low season to solve all the beach issues, to organise the beaches by renting out spaces to locals to have their business and to better control the beaches. There must be a reason that they always attack Phuket and forget to act in Hua Hin and Pattaya. Eric Lek 64 ...................................................
A fair lot in life?
Re: Kamala beach vendors set to face the music Wow... illegal vendors getting out of hand? Who would ever think of such a thing? Like the old adage “give them an inch and they’ll take a mile”. There is nothing wrong with limited, managed concessions, but they should be spaced out and slots awarded by lottery, giving equal opportunity to law abiding members of the local community and the rules clearly defined Ben Pendejo
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
Flower mess gets bosses banished BANGKOK
Bangkok Post
T
wo provincial governors accused of mishandling funeral flower-laying ceremonies for the late King have been transferred to inactive posts at the Prime Minister’s Office, according to Interior Minister Anupong Paojinda. Chonbu r i Gover nor Phakrathorn Thianchai was originally scheduled to be transferred to the role of Samut Prakan governor, according to reports, while Nonthaburi’s Phanu Yaemsri was due to be made governor of Nakhon Sawan. The changes were ordered in the wake of complaints over their handling of sandalwood flower (dok mai jan) rites on Oct 26, when the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej was cremated. However, Gen Anupong said after Tuesday’s (Nov 7) cabinet meeting that he had withdrawn the reshuffle list
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A volunteer holds ‘dok mai jan’ used to mark the Royal Cremation ceremony. Two provincial governors have been transferred and denied new posts for shaming the ceremony. Photo: Bangkok Post / file
for the Interior Ministry in which the men featured. He said he has asked Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to transfer them to the PM’s Office for an indefinite period. The deputy governors of the respective provinces will now serve as acting governors, Gen Anupong added. He said the transfers have nothing to do with allegations
of corruption. Rather, the men were transferred out of the provinces to mollify residents. Gen Anupong previously instructed the ministry’s permanent secretary to look into the complaints against them. The inquiry comes after hundreds of residents converged on Chonburi Provincial Hall on Oct 30 to complain about Mr Phakrathorn after
the dok mai jan rites descended into chaos in various provinces. Locals complained of mismanagement and having to wait up to 12 hours to lay flowers at replicas of the Royal Crematorium while organisers allowed thousands of civil servants to cut in front of them. The Nonthaburi Governor, Mr Phanu, took flak for similar reasons.
THAILAND NEWS
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Nigerian romance scammers nabbed BANGKOK THE IMMIGRATION BUreau has nabbed four Nigerian nationals in Bangkok, who were allegedly running a socalled romance scam. According to bureau acting commissioner Suthipong Wongpin, the men used social media and chat rooms to trick unsuspecting women into wiring money to them. Lt Gen Suthipong said the suspects had opened Facebook pages using false identities. They posed as rich Europeans when contacting and befriending female Facebook users. If the women agreed to chat, the suspects would make romantic overtures and tell victims they had expensive gifts for them. They would later tell victims that the gifts had been posted to them but were being impounded by the Customs Department because they were subject to customs duty, Lt Gen Suthipong said. The men told the women that since they were abroad they could not pay the duty so asked the victims to pay the fee for them, Lt Gen Suthipong said.
Last month, Tourist Police Bureau chief Suthipong Wongpin explained the ‘romance scam’ of Nigerian con men. Photo: Bangkok Post / file A Thai woman would then call the victims, pretending to be a customs official, giving victims bank account numbers to where the money could be wired, the acting commissioner said. Lt Gen Suthipong said the four Nigerians entered Thailand on tourist visas and had remained in the country for three to eight years. All four had married Thai women and used the women to open bank accounts and contact victims, the acting commissioner said, adding that police are also looking into whether other Thais were involved in the scam. Police have charged the four Nigerians with overstaying their visas. Bangkok Post
8
THAILAND NEWS
Fireworks light up the Ratchaprasong area to welcome 2017. Photo: Panupong Changchai
Four-day holiday for New Year NATIONWIDE IT WAS ANNOUNCED on Tuesday (Nov 7) that Thailand will have a fourday break for revellers to ring in the New Year for 2018. The cabinet on Tuesday announced that the New Year holidays will be from Dec 30, 2017 to Jan 2, 2018 as the last two days of the year fall on a weekend. “In principle, if annual holidays fall on weekends, additional holidays will be added,” government spokesman Lt Gen Sansern Kaewkamnerd said.
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
NCPA wants legal action for Yingluck escape cop BANGKOK
Bangkok Post
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he National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) has filed a complaint asking that charges be laid against a senior police officer for helping former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra flee the country. Col Burin Thongprapai, a legal officer of the Supreme Command and NCPO, submitted the complaint to Maj Gen Pakapong Petra, a deputy chief of the Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB), and Lt Col Charoensit Kongitthi, deputy chief of Pathumwan Police Station and the main investigator in the case. They were asked to charge Col Chairit Anurit with dereliction of duty as he drove the former prime minister to the border, enabling her to sneak out of the country, in a Toyota Camry sedan with fake licence plates. Col Burin filed the complaint on behalf of the junta. Col Chairit was transferred
Police say this Toyota Camry was used to help former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra escape the country. Photo: Pornprom Satrabhaya from the position of deputy chief of the MPB’s Division 5 to an inactive post at police headquarters on Sept 22. Investigators have found out the car’s engine was smuggled into the country. Two Nakhon Pathom police officers also accused of assisting in Yingluck’s escape have
already acknowledged the charge of bringing the engine into the country illegally. Deputy National Police Chief Gen Srivara Ransibrahmanakul said in September that Col Chairit would be charged if DNA comparisons of samples taken from the vehicle and from Yingluck’s
house were found to match. It was later announced the tests were inconclusive because of the poor quality of the samples from the car. The MPB set up a panel to investigate Col Chairit’s actions, and it faulted him for a serious breach of police discipline.
However, Gen Srivara said in October that the Royal Thai Police Office had still not received the investigation report from city police. Yingluck is believed to have slipped out of the country on Aug 23, two days before the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions was scheduled to deliver its ruling on her government’s corruption plagued rice-pledging scheme. When she did not appear delivery of the judgement was deferred to Sept 27, when she was convicted and sentenced in absentia to five years in prison for failing to stop fake government-to-government sales of stockpiled rice despite several warnings about corruption in the pledging scheme. Yingluck is believed to have been escorted by the three police officers to the Cambodian border in Aranyaprathet district of Sa Kaeo province. She has not appeared in public since leaving and her whereabouts remain uncertain.
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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
ASIA NEWS
9
Losing its weaving tradition Shopkeepers struggle to sell their wares as imports hit shelves IRAQ
An Iraqi man waves a carpet at his textile workshop in the Iraqi city of Hilla, south of Baghdad. Photo: Sabah Arar / AFP
Sarah Benhaida
I
n the shadow of the Imam Hamza mosque in the region of the ancient kingdom of Babylon, a carpet market that was once bustling is now almost empty. The only visitor to Hamad al-Soltani’s small shop in the city of Al-Hamza in central Iraq, some 175 kilometres south of Baghdad, is a local tribal chief. Nothing in the world can convince Sheikh Hazem alHiyali – a Bedouin scarf on his head, hooded cloak over his shoulders and shawl on his neck – to replace the traditional carpets he receives his guests on for imported versions. Over the past few years, Iraq has been flooded with carpets from abroad – but although they may well be much cheaper they are of a far lower quality, he insists. Hiyali says he cannot bear to even imagine his “diwan”, the traditional reception room where visitors sip tea and chat, without the long rectangular
Man killed by ‘suicide’ jumper SOUTH KOREA A SOUTH KOREAN MAN was killed after a woman who apparently committed suicide by jumping from an apartment block landed on him, reports said. The 68-year-old man was on his way to work in Seoul when the woman, aged 56, leapt from the 13th floor of the building, Yonhap news agency reported. Both were taken to hospital after the impact but died later, the report cited the police as saying, adding the woman had been suffering from depression and probably killed herself. South Korea’s suicide rate is the highest among the 34 nations of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and one of the worst in the world. The South Korean government has allotted nearly 9.9 billion won (B295 million) in 2017 for suicide prevention. AFP @thephuketnews
carpets adorned with geometric patterns. “It is by the beauty of its carpets that one can judge a room,” he says, running ring-covered fingers across the merchandise hanging on the walls of the shop. “Our mothers and our grandmothers worked at home to weave” these carpets, says the tribal leader, his beard speckled with grey. Soltani, 32, inherited his carpet shop from his father. He says older generations of women also embroidered
saddles for camels and wove covers for their harnesses, but such items are sold nowadays only as decorations. Mehdi Saheb spent 50 years working at a loom and can speak for hours about the rich history and intricacies of carpet manufacturing in Iraq. As he talks, Saheb, 70, weaves in long-forgotten words from the past that are now unfamiliar to younger Iraqis. Inherited from the Turkish used during Ottoman domination more than a century ago, they describe the different
An image of students is displayed along the railing of the Mapo Bridge in Seoul to dissuade potential suicides. Photo: Jung YeonJe / AFP
colours and types of wool used in this agricultural area where keeping livestock is widespread. “Before, people came from abroad to place orders,” he says, wearing a beige robe as he sits in his small house on the verge of a dusty road. By “before”, Saheb means before the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq that sparked chaos and bloodshed which still roils the country. “Ever y day, some 20 groups of tourists would come to visit the ancient sites” of
Babylonia and other archaeological treasures, recalls former antiquities official Fallah al-Jabbawi. Now no tourists come to see this millennia-old heritage. “There are only Iraqis left,” laments Saheb, who throughout his working life embroidered patterns passed down from the different civilisations that once ruled this region. Circles, squares, and stylised animals or flowers: the symbols woven into Iraq’s carpets can be traced back to the Babylonians who ruled there some 2,000 years before Christ was born, or the Assyrians who followed. Meanwhile, certain motifs represent the Jewish Star of David or Christian crosses, and others, found in mosques, are said to be Islamic. In many houses families jealously guard carpets passed down from their ancestors, while the offices of senior government officials or foyers of luxury hotels are often decorated with the traditional goods. But in the trade, the majority of new models being pur-
chased are now mass-produced in neighbouring Iran, Turkey or Syria. About half as cheap as their Iraqi equivalents, the imports have slowly but surely made their way onto the stalls. Shopkeeper Soltani still has carpets on display that are more than 50 years old, but he struggles to sell many of his wares. An item that he once could have got more than $100 (B3,315) for, he now has to let go for just $20 (B663), he says. In the rutted streets of the old neighbourhood nearby, the impact of the industry’s decline can be seen. Some 30 or 40 families who once made their living from weaving now struggle to scratch together $100 each month. Once a source of pride, this testament to Iraq’s varied heritage is now neglected and shunned, bemoans former carpet maker Saheb. “Neither the state nor the private sector support the weavers,” he says. AFP
10 WORLD NEWS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
The sweet smell of success
Syrian refugee in Jordan prospers again far away from home JORDAN Kamal Taha
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romas of orange blossom, almond and coconut waft from the northern Jordan shop of Mazen Obeido, a 42-year-old Syrian who never imagined he would prosper again far from home. “In Damascus I had several shops and everything was fine, but a year after the outbreak of the war, I left everything behind,” said the master pastry chef and father of three who said he no longer felt safe in his home country. So he decided to start again from scratch and hired a property in Irbid north of Amman, half of which became his kitchen and the other half the shop. Around 200,000 refugees from Syria now live in the town 89 kilometres north of the capital. Jordan hosts about 650,000 people who have fled from neighbouring Syria because of the conflict that erupted there in 2011, according to the UN High Commissioner
Men work at a shop in the northern Jordanian town of Irbid selling traditional Syrian sweets, that is owned by 42-year-old Syrian refugee Mazen Obeido who fled the conflict in his homeland. Photo: Khalil Mazraawi / AFP for Refugees (UNHCR). The authorities in Amman say the number is double that – at 1.3 million. According to the UNHCR, more than 80% of Syrian refugees in Jordan live below the poverty line. “I worked night and day
without stop,” said Obeido, whose efforts have paid off and meant he could again expand. “I opened a second shop, then a third, a fourth and then a fifth,” he said, proud to continue a trade that was passed down from father to son.
Sesame cakes, baklava, semolina cakes sprinkled with pistachios or traditional icecream – he makes and sells in Jordan the same products that used to be displayed on large trays in his stores in Syria. There, “Jordanians came in their dozens to my shops.
At weekends, they bought up 90% of my pastries which were much cheaper than in Jordan,” he recalled. Syria was once a gourmet’s paradise, with its barazek – small biscuits sprinkled with pistachio and sesame seeds – its mabrouma baklava rolls and its cheese sweets. In his bakeries and shops where Obeido employs around 100 people, mostly Syrians, his delicacies are created with special implements from his homeland. “In order to make highquality Damascus sweets, you need special tools from Syria,” Obeido said. “Bringing them to Jordan by air costs a lot, but the results are incredible.” He is delighted that many compatriots who have learned the trade thanks to his help have gone into business outside Jordan by opening pastry shops in Turkey, France, Germany and as far away as Canada and the United States. Recalling the proverb that it is better to teach someone how to fish rather than give him a fish, Obeido said he
wants to help his fellow Syrians, hundreds of thousands of whom have fled the war. “I want to teach them the trade so they can live in dignity – I want them to learn how to fish for themselves,” he said. With the help of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Obeido has begun free training sessions for the most vulnerable refugees, such as widows and girls with no means of support. “I love my work – the smells here are a constant reminder of my country,” said 22-year-old Haifa al-Ali from Aleppo, Syria’s one-time commercial capital. A nurse, she underwent three months’ training before joining one of Obeido’s pastry kitchens. Even though pastries prepared in Jordan are a reminder of home, “they taste different at home in Syria, with family and friends,” said teacher and mother of three Arwa Nabulsi, summing up the frustration felt by her compatriots forced into exile. AFP
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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
BUSINESS NEWS 11
Kata Group goes Beyond Kata Beach Resort & Spa remodelled and rebranded HOSPITALITY The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th
K
ata Group Resorts of Thailand, one of the country’s leading and longest established hotel companies, has changed the branding of its Phuket flagship Kata Beach Resort & Spa to become the Beyond Resort Kata, with effect from Nov 1. The resort, which is set directly on the beach at Kata, has long offered a classic beach resort holiday for couples and families, and for the transition to Kata Group’s successful Beyond Resort brand, has undergone complete remodelling to enhance its romantic Andaman setting. Beyond Resort Kata is being promoted under the “Sense of Sea” concept as a luxury resort with its own beach frontage. “This major revision has been done with the goal of completely upgrading the facilities, including everything from the guestrooms to
Beyond Resort Kata now joins the Beyond Resort brand in three other locations, namely Karon in Phuket, Khao Lak in Phang Nga, and Krabi. Photo: Kata Group the resort landscaping,” says Kata Group Resorts Chairman Pramookpisitt Achariyachai. “We have a perfect location directly on the famous Kata Beach, and the resort has always been a great destination for families, couples, and
groups of friends. “The success of our Beyond brand in other destinations has inspired us to rebrand the resort, and make it even more of an exciting destination in which modern travellers can make happy memories
Phuket operators praise ITB Asia TOURISM PHUKET TOURISM AND travel operators have returned from the ITB Asia trade expo in Singapore with positive reports from the record-setting 10th anniversary of the event. This year’s event, held at the traditional venue, the Sands Expo and Convention Center at the Marina Bay Sands resort, on Oct 25-27, drew more than 940 exhibitors from 113 countries – up 11% on last year. Re present i ng Phu ket
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Phuket representatives on show at ITB Asia in Singapore. Photo: ITB Asia were Mongkol Boonporn and Woraporn Voratat, both Executive Committee members of the Phuket Tourist Association, along with 20 other representatives from tour and travel operators from Phuket and elsewhere in Southern
Thailand. The entourage’s attendance at the event was funded by the Phuket Provincial Administration Office. Simply by taking part in this event will increase the number of tourists travelling to destinations throughout the Asia-Pacific, and helps to promote Phuket and the Andaman region on the global tour and travel stage, Mr Mongkol and Mr Woraporn noted. Unveiling its largest exhibitors showcase yet, ITB Asia 2017 reported a 77% growth from its inaugural edition. Tanyaluk Sakoot
that will last forever.” Beyond Resort Kata now joins the Beyond Resort brand in three other locations, namely Karon in Phuket, Khao Lak in Phang Nga, and Krabi. The Kata Group launched its Beyond Resort brand in
2012 with the opening of the two new resorts in Khao Lak and Krabi, The investment was a hefty B2.3 billion for the two resorts. B1.2bn was spent on buying and renovating the Krabi resort. The resort, on 24 rai at Klong Muang Beach, just north of Ao Nang, has 171 rooms, divided into six types, including 77 standalone villas. Meanwhile, the B1.1bn Beyond Resort Khaolak, on Pakweep Beach, is a couplesonly resort. The four-star-plus resort has 153 villas on 72 rai of land. Last year the adults-only resort was bestowed the accolade “Most Romantic Resort in Asia and Australasia” World Luxury Hotel Award as well as a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2016. The Beyond Resort Kata now joins those ranks. The resort lobby has been given a new design that both encompasses the resort’s Thai heritage and focuses its appeal to the new generation of travellers.
All 275 guestrooms have been redesigned with bright and comfortable colour tones, and with the premier deluxe rooms, grand deluxe rooms, and deluxe rooms all having a view of the ocean. For families with children, the resort has a children’s pool and a Kids’ Club. Kanda Spa is Kata Group’s own spa brand, and offers Thai-style treatments in an atmosphere of total relaxation. Calcio is the new name for the former @ Beach Bar & Restaurant, which has a light and airy design and is open all day serving Thai, Asian and international food. Its flagship dish is The Italian PIZZA. Poolside Bar is open throughout the day until 11:30pm for light meals and snacks, refreshments, and cocktails. For weddings and business events, the resort has a banquet hall that can accommodate up to 400 guests, together with an outdoor area in the garden and beside the pool and beach that is popular for large events and beach weddings.
12 BUSINESS NEWS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
PROTECTING YOUR VIEW
How to keep your sea view without breaking the bank LAW Jerrold Kippen Tax & Law Expert Duensing Kippen
Y
ou have bought your dream house in Thailand, which includes an incredible ocean view. You couldn’t be happier. And then, it happens. Someone starts construction of their dream house, directly in front of yours which, when completed, will completely block your beautiful view. What, if anything, can you do? There are legal measures that can address this issue. How successful those measures are depends on what steps you take and when. Most commonly purchasers fail to take any steps to protect that treasured view that was part of why and what they thought they were buying.
CONTRACT Sometimes parties will enter into a contract, which includes a provision to protect their view. This is already better than nothing. However, if your contract party is no longer the owner of relevant land at some point in the future (because they cease to exist or sell the land to someone else, etc.), then you are essentially in the same position as an owner who did nothing.
Protecting your sea view in Phuket may not be as mind-boggingly legally confusing as you might think. Photo: Suthicha Sirirat Furthermore, we often see contractual provisions that are intended to protect an owner’s view wherein such protection was dependent on some “owners committee” – that does not legally exist, and therefore, cannot be held liable to protect such view. CIVIL COURT So what if you have no enforceable contract? One possible option would be to file a case in civil court based on the loss of the full benefit of your property. However, your view might not be recognised as a compensable benefit. And,
even it is, at best you would be awarded money, but not your view. ADMINISTRATIVE APPEAL Another possible option would be to challenge the construction itself. A party who is affected by the government’s bureaucratic actions may challenge such action by administrative appeal. In our case, this would include the government’s issuance of a building permit to the party who is or will block your view. However, in order to succeed on such a claim,
you will need to show that the building permit was issued illegally. If so, the construction may be halted or, if built, ordered to be demolished. However, if the permit was issued legally, your claim will not succeed. REAL PROTECTION As you can see, in none of the circumstances above could your action legally secure your view. There is, however, an alternative that will do that. A “servitude” is a real estate property right which allows you to restrict construction
on the land that would block your view. If you wish you protect your view, and if such is a key component to your purchase, then it is recommended that you require such a servitude to be registered on the relevant land in favour of your purchase land as a condition of and prior to your purchase. As a legal right – as opposed to a contractual right – a servitude is registered on the title of the land that could block your view. Thus, regardless of who the current or future owner of that land is, the owner will be restricted
from blocking your view. Further, the legal servitude right will also be registered on your land title and be applicable to future owners as well, an obvious added benefit to your heir or your sale price should you decide to sell the property on later. DUENSING KIPPEN is an international law firm specialising in business transaction and dispute resolution matters, with offices in Bangkok and Phuket, Thailand and affiliated offices in over 50 other countries. Visit duensingkippen.com
Banks urged to support SMEs FINANCE DEPUTY PRIME MINISter Somkid Jatusripitak is urging state-owned banks to play a more aggressive role in supporting small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs). “I’ve already discussed a major restructuring of SME Bank with the finance minister
Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak to better serve SMEs,” he said. Bangkok Post
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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
Catalan chef set to wow diners at Banyan Tree
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
14
Dr Patrick to launch his Phuket memoirs
17
DOUBLY DELICIOUS
Chef Tammasak ‘Noi’ Chootong has doubled down with his second Suay Restaurant Chef Tammasak ‘Noi’ Chootong stands in the al fresco dining area of his new Suay Restaurant in Cherng Talay.
Bruce Stanley
I
t’s almost noon on a clear Sunday when most people are at the beach, enjoying brunch or relaxing at home. But not Chef Tammasak “Noi” Chootong, owner of Suay restaurants, who has spent the morning in the local fresh markets exploring fresh and new foods he can prepare at his bistro in Phuket Town and his recently opened grander restaurant in Cherng Talay. “I like to do the shopping myself, as wandering through the markets inspires me about new combinations of flavours and tastes which I can offer for my daily specials,” explains Chef Noi. His menu includes a stimulating mix of freshly sourced ingredients prepared with European cooking techniques he learned from working in some of the world’s top kitchens. A sample of tastes would include grilled lamb loin marinated with lemongrass served with papaya salsa, steamed salmon in rice noodles with yellow curry and a piquant tuna tartare Isan style. Chef Noi is an outstanding example of a talented Thai, who was born and raised in Songkhla province, but as a youth moved to Europe with his family. He settled in Germany where he eventually studied kitchen development @thephuketnews
from the Ueberkingen Culinary School. “I was not a good student and much preferred football and skateboarding to my studies, but I had a very good stepfather who encouraged me to work in hospitality. I joined an apprenticeship program so I could be a waiter but had to study kitchen management first. I found my love of cooking from there,” said Chef Noi. On graduation, he spent five years at the Maritim Hotel in Stuttgart and then at the Michelin-starred Top Air Transport restaurant. He then joined the culinary team aboard the Queen Elizabeth II where he catered to the demanding tastes of passengers in the luxury cruiser’s five dining rooms. “I would say I have been very fortunate in my career but I’ve always had my eyes open to take on new challenges without fear.” By the early 2000s Chef Noi had the urge to return to Thailand and re-immerse himself in his native culture. He was recruited by the JW Marriott Resort & Spa in Phuket, and soon became the hotel’s executive chef, where he could present his very own interpretations of Thai cuisine. He developed the Ginga cooking school and supervised the refurbishment of the resort’s nine F&B outlets. He then joined Banyan Tree Hotels
and Resorts as their corporate Thai chef where he developed the brand’s signature Thai restaurant, Saffron, in 10 properties that stretch as far away as Mexico. By 2010, he decided to open his own restaurant in Phuket Town where he could have total control over menu and management. He renovated a small house on Takuapa Rd near the town centre, providing just 60 seats, that are kept cool by shade trees and long, overhanging roofs. The menu quickly drew customers from around the island for the charm of the location, the interesting menu offerings and the modest prices. “Putting a menu together requires deep thought,” Chef Noi advises, “I have to consider who are the clientele and how can I please their tastes. I then focus on the main ingredients and hope to strike a balance of flavours. I’m careful to not create confusion with too much fusion.” He then renovated the interior and added air-conditioned comfort for his Thai clients, while spending what free time he could find to work as a guest chef at other events and promotions around Thailand and abroad, including consultant assignments on Corfu, Greece. He was named Iron Chef Thailand in 2015 for European cuisine on
the popular Thai television competition. “I like to stay active and take advantage of opportunity. I decided that a Suay Restaurant in the centre of the island could be successful so searched for the best location and found a space at Baan Wana between Cherng Talay and Baan Manik. I wanted to design a comfortable, modern setting to suit my cuisine. We have air-conditioning seating inside and generous garden seating outside so our guests can be comfortable.” Chef Noi explains that his menus are similar at both of his Suay locations – featuring such delicacies as foie gras wrapped in betel nut leaf, baked Andaman seafood and fresh giant clams in roasted chilli and Thai basil cream cheese, or crispy corn tacos stuffed with a choice of tandoori chicken, grilled lamb loin or grilled chicken, all presented with a variety of condiments. Under the umbrella of his Positive Kitchen consulting company, he works to provide cooking classes, event catering or even private dinners. “I’m having a lot of fun and I’m very happy that Suay in Cherng Talay has been so well received by the Phuket community.” For more information please visit: www. suayrestaurant.com
14 DINING
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
Lifelong love of Catalan cuisine
You can taste food from the Catalan Pyrenees here soon.
Chef Francesc Rovira is bringing a taste of his region’s food to Phuket Mark Knowles editor1@classactmedia.co.th
F
rancesc Rovira from the Michelin-starred “La Fonda Xesc” restaurant in the Catalan Pyrenees in Spain,is heading to the island this month to share his passion for Catalan cuisine. Chef Francesc’s visit is the latest in a string of guest chefs from some of the top restaurants in the world that Banyan Tree Phuket has invited to showcase their unique cuisines. The Phuket News spoke with Chef Francesc before his arrival to host his first dinner at Tre Restaurant on Nov 16. How would you describe the essence of Catalan cuisine? It is the cuisine of the territory of Catalan and has come to us down through our ancestors for many generations. We mainly cook and eat products from our local environment, following their seasonality and typically cooking them with a low heat.
What are some of the ingredients that you love to use in your style of Catalan cuisine? Catalan cuisine is rich with a variety of dishes and products. I like to cook with herbs, meats, vegetables, fish and fruit… I like to look for contrasts in the kitchen, in the flavours. Like sweetsalty, bitter-acid and bittersweet… this in one of the characteristics of Catalan cuisine.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
Francesc Rovira from ‘La Fonda Xesc’ restaurant.
Local ingredients like mushrooms are essential.
How would you compare your style of Catalan cooking to the traditional food you ate when you were growing up? I sincerely believe that my current kitchen is an evolution of my childhood memories, those flavours and dishes that I knew as a child are still present in my kitchen, Now, we create more refined dishes, with more order, in a subtle and delicate way. The traditions of Catalan cuisine form a base which allows us to refine, elaborate and evolve with new concepts and techniques.
Escudella! It is a very typical dish of the mountainous regions of Catalan, especially in the winter. It’s prepared with salted pork meat (the bones of the spine), bacon, tail, pig’s ears. It can also be made prepared with other meats, such as chicken, perhaps a piece of lamb, a bit of sagi (pork fat balls coated in flour) or beef bones. Next you add dried beans, dried corn, potato, turnip, parsnip and vegetables like leeks, celery and cabbage – then you put it all in a pot with water and let it cook very slowly over many hours, or even days. Once cooked, you can make soup from the broth and add pasta or rice or noodles then pile the meat and vegetables on top.
Tree’s Tre Restaurant from Nov 16 to 20. He will be preparing a three-course meal with up to nine menu choices. The dinner will cost B3,500 per person for food only and B4,500 with fine beverage pairings. On Nov 19, at Banyan Tree’s The Watercourt Restaurant, Michelin-starred Chef Francesc will be giving an exclusive demonstration and performance for diners at Sunday brunch. With an optional freeflow of fine sparkling beverages, the cost of the brunch starts from B2,800 per person for food only; B3,400 with free-flow standard selected beverages and B4,000 with premium selected beverages.
What do you dream about eating when you’re away from home for a long time?
Chef Francesc at Banyan Tree Phuket: Chef Francesc will be at Banyan
Advanced booking is recommended. For more information and bookings email: fb-phuket@banyantree.com or call +66 76 372 400 on extension 5463.
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EXPLORE 15
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
Cycling to Happiness BLAZING SADDLES
Baz Daniel
I
n 2006 the United Nations announced that more than half the world’s population was living in urban areas and that by 2030 almost five billion of us would be urbanised. Like most areas of rapid urbanisation, Phuket has been deeply affected by the rush to develop. Firstly, the island has become progressively re-oriented around motorised traffic and secondly many public spaces and resources have been privatised. This reorganisation of our island has had an unfair and cruel impact as the urbanised residents of Phuket are increasingly denied the opportunity of enjoying simple daily pleasures such as walking on convivial streets, sitting around in public areas, or just playing together. Children have largely disappeared from Phuket’s streets which have been rendered dangerous and polluted by heavy traffic. Phuket’s rapid urbanisation is driven by people seeking a better life for themselves through increased prosperity, but the sad fact is that the more people flock to Phuket for the good life – money, opportunity, novelty and entertainment – the more crowded, expensive, polluted and congested the island becomes. The result? Surveys continually show that Phuketians rate themselves as among the least happy people in Thailand despite living in one of the richest regions of the country. Is Phuket’s urban design really powerful enough to make or break our
Bicycle lanes are cheap and encourage safe cycling. Photo: Aggre-gator1
@thephuketnews
The breakneck speed of development has made riding on Phuket’s roads a neck-breaking proposition. happiness? The question deserves consideration, because the most dynamic economies all over our planet seem to have produced the most miserable cities according to the World Health Organisation. Surely that is not what we are trying to do in Phuket? Sadly, an unintended consequence of Phuket’s urbanisation and traffic density is that our human networks and interactions are becoming degraded. People just don’t want to engage with the traffic to go out and see friends and relatives like they used to. Upon returning from the daily commute to work, many Phuketians collapse in a deranged heap in front of their TVs or iPhones and hibernate. Research shows that the more connected we are to family and community the less likely we are to experience heart attacks, strokes, cancer and depression. Connected people sleep
better at night. They live longer. They consistently report being happier. However, within all this gloom, there is hope! Abundant research shows that one group of urbanised commuters report enjoying themselves. These are people who travel to work under their own steam… they walk, run, or ride bicycles. Why would travelling more slowly and using more effort offer more satisfaction than driving? Part of the answer exists in our basic human physiology. We were born to move. Immobility is to
the human body what rust is to a car. Stop moving long enough and your muscles will atrophy. Bones will weaken. Blood will clot. You’ll find it harder to concentrate and solve problems. Immobility is not merely a state that is closer to death… it actually hastens it. So if we really care about freedom, we need to plan Phuket’s urbanisation for everyone, not just the brave or foolhardy who are currently willing to risk their lives in order to cycle. Phuket could quite easily be made more cyclist-friendly by constructing cycling and walking pathways around perimeter areas such as Cape Panwa, the Nai Harn headland, Chalong Bay or through the central mountain peaks. The investment costs would be minimal and could be readily amortised by charging a small fee to cycle or walk the pathways. Bike hire and cycle-friendly cafes along the way would offer locals employment and business opportunities. Will any of this happen? While holding your breath is probably wise while cycling along Phuket’s polluted main arteries, doing so in anticipation of such positive cycling initiatives appearing any time soon is probably a fast track to asphyxiation! That being said, the new bike-share companies entering the market here are a glimmer of hope for a more bikefriendly future for our island.
16 CULTURE
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
Buddha’s teachings about food and eating, put into practice by monks, can serve as an example to follow in your own life, in order to eat in a healthier way and avoid temptation. Photos: Wat Buakhwan / Dave Dugdale
‘Honey, I shrunk the kids!’ Fad diets don’t work, why not fight obesity with some Thai food karma ALL ABOUT BUDDHISM Jason A. Jellison mitnoy@live.com
I
t seems that new-fangled diets are everywhere to be found in Thailand these days. We’ve probably all heard of the Atkins diet, the vegan diet and the low-cal diet; but check out some of these crazy diets that I’ve recently found: There’s the “charcoal cleanse”, there’s the “clip-your-nose” diet – you wear a clip on your nose to avoid falling for the smell of, well, anything worth eating. There’s the “master cleanse” diet where you eat nothing but cayenne pepper, laxatives, a lemon and saltwater. Long-time residents in Thailand may have noticed that waistlines are expanding in the Kingdom. Just stop at any local mall and you’ll see Thai kids flocking to Swenson’s, Pizza Hut, McDonald’s, KFC and many more fast-food outlets.
So, can Buddha’s teachings about eating help you to slim yourself down? Buddha nearly starved himself to death in search of enlightenment. He would probably have died if not for the kind offering of food from a passer-by. After enlightenment, Buddha cautioned novice monks that the greed for food would not just go away because they had found religion. So, Buddha decided that monks would only eat from sunrise to midday. After that, they can drink any water, milk, or juice that they like. Visitors to Thailand are often treated to the ancient sight of young monks collecting alms every morning. These boys and young men are not usually heavyset. Buddhism teaches us that we tend to follow our desires to a fault. It is the failure to control desire that usually leads to overeating. This is even more true today than in Buddha’s day. Thus, Buddhism teaches its followers to only eat as much food as they really need and to avoid excess, although they can generally eat whatever they like (as
long as animals are treated well and nobody goes hungry). Knowing this, here’s how you can apply a pinch of Zen to your own diet. Although not endorsed by Western nutritionists, I think you’ll find that “Thai food karma” may take a load off of both your mind and your waist. We must firstly face a truth that a lot of us don’t want to confront: Most of us become overweight because we eat too much, too often. Desperate, it seems we would rather invent these crazy diets rather than confront our passion for eating. In these day’s of plenty we can have anything, anytime, anywhere. The trouble is, five minutes later, we can have some more! While I have kept this article rather light-hearted, we should also remember that hunger tends to be much too positive of an experience in rich countries and much too negative of an experience in poor countries. We might be getting a little fatter in Thailand, but the poor are still going hungry somewhere else.
Yet, Buddhism has a device to make all well. As alluded to, Thai monks usually see only two meals per day: breakfast and lunch. You may be surprised to learn that you can actually live quite well on two meals per day. In fact, many of Thailand’s monks are nearly 100 years old. Cutting out food after midday slashes calories. Some people get hungry right after eating, but a week of ignoring those pangs of hunger will actually wipe them out. They are really just desire calling, not necessity. We can also look to old Siam to lose weight. The traditional Siamese diet was full of lean, nutritious foods like spicy shrimp soup, papaya salad, fried rice, spicy minced pork, as well as fresh fruit. Yet, fine words do not produce fine foods. The choice to eat socially-responsible food, in the right amount and the right time, gives the gift of good health to both yourself and others. So in many ways, Thai Buddhism actually allows you to have your cake and eat it, too.
thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
EVENTS 17
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
Phuket Days: A rollicking read Local expat author Patrick Campbell set to launch his Phuket memoirs Bruce Stanley
P
atrick Campbell is undoubtedly the best writer on Phuket. He is best known for his many contributions to the local press in his intelligent columns on gardening and the environment. He graduated from Keele University in the UK and taught English literature at Middlesex University and at several universities in North America. He has a deep interest in theatre and was the founder of the first MA course in the performance arts in the UK. Patrick is a man of many talents, particularly in the arts. He has written analysis of several books of poetry, an intriguing book on psychoanalysis and performance and yet another on body art. He has also published over 40 academic papers on noted writers and poets. There is not enough room here to describe his many and varied interests and accomplishments. Let’s just say he’s a sophisticated man of letters with many distinctions. About 15 years ago, he decided to retire and move to Phuket. Why would a man of his education and experience move to such a raucous island, one would ask? I think it is probably because Phuket is like a grand stage
@thephuketnews
Patrick Campbell (left) with his friend, and fellow columnist for ‘The Phuket News’, Baz Daniel. where everyone is an actor in an absurd comedy of errors. Patrick has taken his love of performance and decided to live it. His current literary project is his latest book, Phuket Days, Life in the Island Fast Lane published by White Lotus press. It’s a collection of essays from different aspects of draws on Patrick’s life and eclectic enthusiasms. It begins with the helter-skelter trauma wrought by the 2004 tsunami not long after he
moved to the island. There’s a lively description of his mates, mostly from the UK, who decided to relocate to Phuket at about the same time. Men who felt that life was not over yet god-dammit… and they were up for more adventures. We see them all the time around the island. Fate decrees whether they will survive or instead be waylaid by financial frictions and have to be sent home, exhausted by poor health and the abyss of their empty bank accounts.
Patrick seems to be one of those who not only survived but has thrived on the daily challenges of getting through a day in paradise. Much of the book describes the beauty of the island’s gardens and the charms of the verdant tropical landscape. There are also many snippets of his favourite poetry to enliven the prose. There have been many books written by expats describing the chaos of expat life in Thailand. This is not one of those. Phuket Days is a celebration of the author’s obvious love for his life on the island. Patrick and a coterie of both his old and new friends will be holding a launch party for Phuket Days on Sunday, November 26 at The Green Man Pub & Restaurant in Chalong. The event will start at 7pm with discounted drinks and free fingerfood. Patrick will also be signing copies of his book at a special discount price for the lunch. Phuket Days is also available at the following outlets for B495: Le Meridien, Boat Lagoon; Seng Ho bookstore in Phuket Town; The Mangosteen; Delish Cafe in Rawai, The Islander, Dilligaf; Wine Lovers and The Green Man. Other locations to be announced shortly. This event is proudly sponsored by The Phuket News and Live 89.5. For more information: editor1@classactmedia.co.th
18 ISLAND SCENE
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
Power Storm Crew demonstrate their dazzling acrobatic dance moves.
BISP’S GIRLS WIN GOLD ON HOME TURF AT BREAKER’S CUP BASKETBALL COMP The BISP U19 Girls took home gold at the 2017 Breakers Cup!
Last weekend (Nov 4-5) British International School, Phuket (BISP) welcomed Under-19 basketball players from Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Laos and the UAE to take part in the second International Breaker’s Cup tournament. Congratulations BISP’s U19 Girls Team who won gold. Highlights of the event included a breakdance performance by Phuket’s very own Power Storm Crew, who are currently competing on the TV series Asia’s Got Talent.
CELEBRITY ACTRESS CINDY SIRINYA BISHOP AND HER FAMILY VISIT MAI KHAO MARINE TURTLE FOUNDATION Cindy Sirinya Bishop (3rd from right) and her actor husband Byron Bishop (2nd from left) were given a tour of the foundation’s premises by Sean Panton (right).
‘The Phuket News’ Executive Editor Chris Husted (4th from right) spoke to the students about the importance of journalism and explained the process producing a newspaper.
KALAPATTANA SCHOOL TOUR CLASS ACT MEDIA OFFICE ON FIELD TRIP Last Friday (Nov 3) students from the Kalapattana School in Phuket toured the Class Act Media offices in Kathu as part of an educational field trip. Several Class Act Media editors spoke to the children about what they do and how news is produced.
Teachers help young students float their ‘krathong’ in the KIS swimming pool.
Celebrity host, actress and supermodel Cindy Sirinya Bishop, her actor husband Byron Bishop and their children Leila and Aiden visited The Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation on November 7 during their stay at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa. Cindy and her family were given a tour of the foundation’s premises by Sean Panton, Co-Chairman and Director of Corporate Social Responsibility for the Marriott Thailand Business Council.
Some students with the culinary creations they prepared in the cooking class.
NOVOTEL PHUKET KAMALA BEACH IS MINIMISING ITS FOOD WASTE The Novotel Phuket Kamala Beach on Nov 12, hosted a cooking class and gave a demonstration of new technology that reduces food waste. The new system has already managed to reduce the hotel’s food waste by more than 70% within three months.
From left: Wichitpon Assavachamnan, Papawin Pachantabutr, Sutisak Cumpheerichaya, Sittipong Siritantrakool.
K IS STUDENTS CELEBR ATE LOY KRATHONG IN TRADITIONAL DRESS
TANTITIUM RESTAURANT REOPENS AFTER HUGE BUILDING RENOVATIONS
Staff and students at Kajonkiet International School enjoyed an activity-filled day of making and floating krathong while wearing traditional Thai clothing to highlight the ancient nature of the Loy Krathong festival celebrated in Thailand.
Tantitium restaurant in Phuket Town hosted a reopening party on November 1 to mark the completion of extensive renovations to its historic 98-year-old building. The event saw a who’s who of Phuket’s glitterati turn out to get the first glimpse of the renovated building decorated and designed under Tantitium’s theme of “Eat, Drink and Massage”. thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
ISLAND SCENE 19
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
Baba afficionados started the pre-season in style.
Tim and Yin chill out by the pool.
BABA BEACH CLUB GROOVES INTO HIGH SEASON WITH EXCLUSIVE PARTY Baba Beach Club in Phang Nga held its very first exclusive party last Saturday, November 4, which saw a pre-festival showcase by Swiss community music label Die Empathie who will have their own stage at Quest Festival Vietnam. The showcase included performances by five DJs from their Quest stage lineup, along with two guest DJs from Bangkok.
Miss Moneypenny’s Promoter Damian McCoy and a friend enjoy the vibe at Vibes.
The team from Lattitudes magazine got into the vibe of the party at Catch Beach Club.
CATCH BEACH CLUB SETS VIBE WITH GRAND OPENING OF VIP LOUNGE A huge crowd turned out last Saturday (Nov 4) for the launch of Catch Beach Club’s new Vibes VIP Lounge. If the vibe on Saturday night was any indication, it looks like Catch Beach Club is set to be the place to party this coming high season. Watch this space for news of Catch’s next big party night!
Brand Connect Founder and Director Justin Frizelle (left) and Managing Director for Brand Connect in Phuket David Ghani.
From left: The ‘Magnificent Seven’.
DRINKS & CO GETS INTO THE MIX WITH FIRST OUTLET IN THAILAND The team from Drinks & Co and VIP guests celebrated the launch of the brand’s first outlet in Thailand at Boat Avenue in Cherng Talay on Saturday, Nov 4. Drinks & Co is a branch of the specialist beverage suppliers Brand Connect. Guests were treated to some of the boutique libations that Drinks & Co are famed for in Singapore and across Asia.
Belinda, Chef Noy and Alessandro share the mood.
PARESA HOSTS ‘BEST OF THE BEST’ WITH CULINARY SPECTACULAR The team at Drinks & Co pride themselves on offering a huge selection of high quality and boutique beverage brands from across the world – and mixing them to perfection. @thephuketnews
Paresa’s highly-anticipated “Best of the Best” gourmet food festival saw food-lovers from across the island gather to sample the wares of seven highly acclaimed local and regional chefs. The seven tops chefs collaborated to create a dish each to tempt the taste buds of discerning diners. The event also helped raise money to support the Phuket Hotels Association Education Scholarship and Training Fund, The Kamala Green Club and the Barnhem home for children in need. Photos: Jessi Cotterill
20 EVENTS
FRI
10 NOV
Pool Competition at Expat Sports Bar Competition starts at 9pm - Expat Sports Bar at the Expat Hotel Soi Taipan Patong. See map at www.expathotel.com
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM vation recommended. 350 baht P.P. shakersphuket@ gmail.com 081 891 4381.
All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet Beef, Pork & Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, fried mushrooms, grilled tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding – roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes – gravy, mushroom sauce, mint sauce. Reservation recommended 350 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail. com 081 891 4381.
THE BEATLES ARE BACK! Mussels night @ Shakers 1.2kg mussels served with French fries, your choice, your style: natural, marnière, Provençale, garlic & cream or Thai style. Reservations recommended 295 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.
ALL YOU CAN EAT BBQ RIBS Come join us for our WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY served ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Indulge in All You Can Eat BBQ Pork Ribs, Chicken and Sides for ONLY 395 BAHT! Our BBQ is famous at Two Chefs! Come try us out and enjoy our mouthwatering pork ribs, flavor-bursting chicken and more! Join us for Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band! Come for the FOOD-www.twochefs.com
SushiBellavista Indulge your taste buds in a variety of signature sushi and sashimi dishes from Phuket’s only rooftop sushi bar ‘Hansha’ paired with Bellavista from the Franciacorta region in the north of Italy. Special SushiBella vista promotion available between 10th - 14th and 17th - 21st November, 2017 from 5.30 pm until 9.30 pm. Live saxophone between 6 and 7 pm. Reservations, 076 380 200.
SAT
11 NOV
Live Sports at Expat Hotel NRL, AFL, Soccer, Rugby Union. Any live sport, we will show it. Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www. expatsportsbar.com
SUN
12 NOV
XANA’s Sunday Brunch Spend quality time with friends and family enjoying a one of a kind Sunday brunch on a perfect day of sunshine by the sea at XANA Beach Club. Every Sunday from 12pm to 3:30pm. Prices from 1,850++THB. Reservations: XANA Beach Club, info@xanabeachclub. com or 076 358 500.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
One night only at Two Chefs Kata Center November 12. Our famous band will be playing all your favorite Beatles hits all night long. Don’t forget to try Phukets BEST Sunday Roast – ALL YOU CAN EAT only B395. Live music, amazing food, great beverages, prizes and a night of immense fun. Sit back and relax or get up and dance to your favorite Beatles songs. Come for the FOOD stay for the FUN. Reservation or highly recommended. You can book your table by phoning: 076 330065 or go on www.twochefs.com/reservation/
KIS FUN RUN 2017 – Running against breast cancer! SURF & TURF NIGHT EVERY WEDNESDAY @ TWO CHEFS ALL YOU CAN EAT! GRILLED AUSTRALIAN RIB EYE STEAK, TERIYAKI MARINATED CHICKEN AND GRILLED TIGER PRAWNS WITH BBQ SAUCE, RED WINE SAUCE AND BEARNAISE SAUCE CEASAR SALAD AND HERB SAUTEED POTATOES. ONLY 495 BAHT. Two Chefs Live Band on stage from 8 pm until late. WWW.twochefs.com Karon 076-286-479, Patong 076-344-914, Kata Beach 076-333-370, Kata Center 076-330-065. Reservations, TWO CHEFS KARON – PATONG – KATA CENTER
FRI
17 NOV
ที่ 4 กลับมาอีกครัง้ ! การแข่งขันทีต่ น่ื เต้นและท้าทาย ด้วยระยะทาง 45 กิโลเมตร และ 106 กิโลเมตร บนเส้นทางธรรมชาติ และถนนทีส่ วยงามทางตอนเหนือของ จังหวัดภูเก็ต
MON
13 NOV
TUE
14 NOV
SAT
18 NOV
Laguna Phuket Triathlon Carnival of multisport fun and tri-related activities at Laguna Phuket. Join us for 24th Laguna Phuket Triathlon on 19 Nov, featuring 1.8K swim, 50K bike and 12K run through spectacular tropical scenery and “LPT Charity Fun Run” (5K & 10K) on 18 Nov to celebrate Laguna Phuket’s 30th anniversary! Take in the excitement of the experience and rub shoulders with the pros at the race and social event. info@lagunaphukettri.com, 076362300 ext. 1404.
WED
15 NOV
All you can eat BBQ Ribs night 6pm – 11pm: All you can eat BBQ ribs served with salad buffet, potato salad & choice of sauces. Reser-
20 NOV
Free Ocean Lifeguard Training – International Certificate FREE three-day course in open water lifesaving (Ocean Lifeguarding) conducted by the International Surf Lifesaving Association. Classes at Surin and Bangtao Beach. Successful students will receive certification as an ISLA International Lifeguard – recognized in 24 countries. Sign up by clicking “Going” on FB. Register early and arrive early – spaces are filling fast. More info at: https://www.islasurf.org/certification/ freeoceanlifeguardtraining@gmail.com
WED
22 NOV
Sportfishing Tournament Phuket Sportfishing Tournament at Chalong bay Phuket. Start date 22-25 November 2017. Walter, Chalong Bay Phuket, walter.d@chsmokehouse.com, 087-270-0812.
THU
Afraid of public speaking? Toastmasters can help. Looking to develop your public speaking and leadership skills? Ignite your career? Join Toastmasters Phuket and start making yourself a leader today! Meetings held the 2nd and 4th Tue of every month at Mövenpick Resort Bangtao Beach Phuket. Contact Jason on 086 479 7471 for more info or email: phuket professionals.toastmastersclubs.org
Sunset matinee at Xana Beach Club. Exclusive sound by Dj Wayu and Dj Dassana. Start from 5pm onwards. Free entry. Reservations – XANA Beach Club: info@xanabeachclub.com, 076 358 500.
Meeting - Rotary Club Patong The Rotary Club of Patong Beach cordially invites guests and prospective members to attend its regular meetings. The cost for non-members is THB 500 and includes lunch. The meeting begins at 12 p.m. at the Days Inn in Patong. Please visit: www. rotarypatong.org for additional information.
All you can eat BBQ night 6pm – 11pm: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns & Squid, Salad buffet, Choice of potatoes and sauces, bread, buns and garlic bread. Reservation recommended. 395 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.
Sunset Matinee
MON
The 4th Thanyapura Phuket Classic Cycling Race The largest cycling competition on the island! The exciting and competitive race takes riders to two different distances: the 45km and the advanced 106km. Cycle through Northern Phuket’s lush jungles, mountains, scenic roads, and exotic coastlines. thanyapura.com 076 336 000. การแข่งขันจักรยาน ธัญญปุระ ภูเก็ต คลาสสิค ไซคลิง่ ครัง้
Kajonkiet International School (KIS) is holding its first KIS Fun Run 2017 on Saturday, November 18, 2017 at the King Rama 9 Park (Suan-Luang-Ror-Kao) at 7am. The funds raised will be donated to Queen Sirikit Centre for Breast Cancer Foundation. Visit: facebook.com/events/100314884064012/
23 NOV
The Golden Flute at Royal Phuket Marina Classical and Modern Music Concert (flute, bassoon, piano, in two sessions). Headliner: The Golden Flute performance by Maxim Rubtsov, the titled flautist, soloist of the Russian National Orchestra. Charity auction to support Phuket Has Been Good to Us foundation. Auction of the children’s drawings and the guests are invited to bid on their favorites. Arrive: 18:30, event starts at 19:00 (duration three hours over two sessions). Dress Code: Cocktail Attire & After5. Ticket price is THB 3900 NET, includes concert, drinks and snacks during the event. Bookings 081 979 2082.
Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show Free Entry! Come and join the fun at the annual Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show 2017 at Ocean Marina Yacht Club. Discover top brand yachts, water sports products, properties, hotels, international schools, marine products & services, food & drink, and much more. Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Pattaya. 038-237-427 Mobile. 095-041-7789. fuangfa@oceanproperty.co.th
thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
THU
23 NOV
Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet & Party Friendship Beach Friendship Beach Waterfront Resort 14th annual Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet and Party. Featuring: Live Music, Welcome Cocktail, Imported Roast Turkey, Apple Sausage Stuffing, Veggie Stuffing, Herb Gravy, Cranberry Port Sauce, Mashed Potato, Fresh Veggies, Prawn Cocktail, Smoked Salmon, Charcuterie, Apple Pie, Thai special entree and a large selection of sides, salads and desserts. Adults: 950THB++. Children under 12: 400THB++. For bookings call +66 (0) 89 728 5304 or email: chef@ friendshipbeach.com 27/1 Soi Mittrapap Rawai.
FRI
SUN
26 NOV
FRI
8 DEC
Foremost IRONMAN 70.3 Thailand Foremost IRONMAN 70.3 Thailand 2017 - Distances: 1.9km Swim, 90km Bike, 21km Run (8½ hours cut off time). Categories: Professional, Asian Elites, Age Group (male/ female), Relay (male/ female/ mixed). ironman.com/triathlon/events/asiapac/ironman-70.3/ thailand.aspx NEW for 2017: Sunrise Sprint 2017 – Distances: 750m Swim, 20km Bike, 5km Run. Categories: Age Group (male/ female), Relay (male/ female/ mixed). ironman.com/triathlon/events/asiapac/ ironman-70.3/thailand/sunrise-sprint.aspx.
Phukethon 2017 Mark your calendar for the Phukethon 2017 weekend. Asia’s major international marathon festival for the first time ever in Phuket, the running paradise island and pearl of the Andaman. Registration is now open. Go to phukethon.com. Get running with the Super Early Bird rate! Limited spaces. Experience the 3-day festival December 08-10, 2017. See you at Phukethon 2017! Register NOW! Phukethon, Saphan Hin, Phuket, 080 214 6950 or 080 287 6515.
SAT
24 NOV
9 DEC
INSPIRED PHUKETIAN Dr Sanguan Kunaporn
Guest Chef Macro Medaglia and Exec. Chef Francesco Greco To celebrate the love and passion for Italian Cuisine across the world world. Two Chefs are joining hands to deliver an outstanding 7-course dinner with selected beverage pairings at Plum Prime Steakhouse. B3,890 net/person. Limited seating available, so please book in advance. Reservations, Plum Prime Steakhouse, Cape Sienna: plum@capesienna.com, 076 337 300.
SAT
EVENTS 21
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
25 NOV
Speech title – Opportunity. Held monthly, and open to the public, this event gives an opportunity for well-lived people to share their life experiences. Inspired by the famous TED Talks, it’s a great way for people to really connect with authentic ideas that will benefit their well-being and happiness in general. All of the speakers are chosen because of their ability to share an idea that connects with and inspires people. Limited to 55 seats only and priced at B350/pax/net including one drink and pass around canapé. Register now by email to: sales@skyelakeclub.com. Skye Lake Club, Cherng Talay.
SAT
2 DEC
One Night in Phuket - Fun Raiser Keemala Screening SKAL Phuket presents - FLOWER POWER SKAL International Phuket & South Thailand invite all to attend their yearly charity dinner, to be held at the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa in Karon, from 7pm till late. Tickets pre-paid at THB 2,750 or at the door THB 3,500 include welcome drink, dinner and free flow drinks. Book your tickets now at phuketticketmaster.com
JIMMY FAME & FRIENDS - “ONE NIGHT IN PHUKET” FILM SCREENING & LIVE MUSIC. KEEMALA RESORT – 6:30-9:30PM - A BENEFIT FOR THE ROTARY CLUB OF PATONG BEACH. Emmy-Nominated filmmaker Jim Newport and his musical alter-ego Jimmy Fame – present the first screening of his new concert film “ONE NIGHT IN PHUKET.” The Rotary sponsored concert took place on July 29. The film features performances by many of the island’s best musicians as well as prominent members of the community, their families and fellow Rotarians. The film will screen promptly at 8pm. Tickets are B650 with all profits going to the Rotary Club of Patong Beach’s HELMETS FOR KIDS CHARITY. www.rotarypatong.org
The Language of Art Thanyapura’s Colour Fun Run Thanyapura’s Colour Fun Run returns to Phuket! Gather your friends or gear up solo for the race through the jungle. We’ll see you “Colour Runners” all coloured up at the finish line! The race is open to all age groups and limited to 1,000 participants. Medals and complimentary meals are awarded to all finishers. For more details facebook.com/Thanyapura.
THU
4 JAN
@thephuketnews
Kata Rocks 3rd ANNIVERSARY BRUNCH POOL PARTY This year’s event is centred around an enticing combination of excellent entertainment, delicious food and an exclusive fashion show next to Kata Rocks’ gorgeous 35-metre infinity swimming pool. Priced from THB 2,900++ per person. Running 12:30-3:30 pm, enquire about the complimentary van offer for groups of 10, for more information and reservations contact: dining@katarocks.com or visit katarocks.com
CHEF PABLO’S DEGUSTATION MENU 950.Celebrating our Thailand Tatler’s BEST Restaurants Award: Come and indulge in a succulent 5 course tasting menu including Foie Gras, pumpkin soup, Alaska Scallop, slow cooked Duck breast & Baba au Rhum. Offer valid until end of November. “Grape juice” pairing available! Reservations and full menu: dedosrestaurant.com 076 325 182 - 8 Lagoon Rd., Laguna, Cherng Talay.
THE PHUKET RENDEZVOUS For four days, Royal Phuket Marina will be transformed into a bustling hub for all things luxury – highlighting Phuket as one of Asia’s premier destinations and guaranteeing maritime heaven for leisure boating enthusiasts. As well as showcasing premium yachts in the marina, the PHUKET RENDEZVOUS will also feature properties, exotic cars and luxury brands with live music, events and parties for everyone to enjoy! For more infomation visit: thephuketrendezvous.com
EVERY DAY
Living in Phuket 2017 Now in its 2nd year (19th for its Bangkok sister), “Living in Phuket” is an annual event set up to help Phuket’s many expats and their families connect with the services that will make their life on the island easier. The event focuses on introducing new comers to social and volunteer opportunities, lifestyle, travel and hospitality services, education, establishments, specialised relations and more. The event will take place in the King Carl Gustaf conference room of the the Bangkok Hospital Phuket (1st floor) from 9am-6pm. And it’s absolutely FREE! Register now at: livinginphuket.org
The Pavilions Art & Culture Foundation is introducing a collective of Phuket Artists – Map Abdy, Peter Child, Marlene Jacopin, Isara Thaothong, Adriano Trapani, John & Zachary Underwood and Mr Zen. Open daily from 11am till 11pm at Firefly till November 30, 2017. For more information call: 076 317 603.
La Gritta’s Discovery Menu Take your taste buds on a culinary tour through some of the finest Italian flavours. Chef Patrizia has created a six-course discovery menu consisting of the appetiser, main course and dessert, priced at 1,590 THB++ per person. The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. Reservations, lagritta@amari.com 076 292 697.
7 Nights 7 Themed Dinners at Rim Talay Mana Smokehouse Traditional American BBQ/smoked and slow roasted, along with TEX MEX tacos, Burritos, Quesadillas etc etc. Open 7 days a week, all day dining. Best ribs in town. At the front of BEST WESTERN Patong Beach. Promotion everyday i.e 399B all you can eat A La Carte, Mondays come 4 pay 3, Live music. Heart of Patong. Free parking. Reservation, 076-360-220.
Make each night unique! Enjoy our themed dinners with the cool sea breeze. Phuket Night Market @690 THB++, Thai & International buffet @790 THB++, Seafood Night @980 THB++, Ribs, Wings & Rings @770 THB++, Butchers Night @market price, Surf & Turf @950 THB++, Thai Seafood Gala @980 THB++ The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. Reservations, rimtalay@amari.com, 076 340106-14 #8027.
22 TIME OUT
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 1. Which African city means ‘victorious’ in Arabic? 2. Gertrude Ederle was the first woman to do what in 1926? 3. Which English king married Caroline of Anspach? 4. What does the ‘E’ stand for in the equation ‘E’ equals ‘M’ ‘C’ squared? 5. Which state borders California to the north? Answers below, centre
SUDOKU
Medium
57. Dickens Across character 1. Towel inscription 63. Genesis brother 5. “Holy moly!” 66. Getting on 9. Saying nothing 67. Assistant 13. Escape route 68. Interlocking toy 14. A noble gas 69. Eastern wrap 16. Way off 70. Blackthorn plum 17. Church recess 71. Furrow former 18. Fill up 72. Reddish-brown 19. Missive gem 20. “Hound of the 73. Pilothouse Baskervilles” character 23. Evelyne ___, 2006 Down Gold Olympian in 1. Shoulder boulder 2. A world’s fair Aerial skiing 24. Aquatic mammals 3. PC term 27. Formed into a ball 4. Cancel printing correction 31. Authority 5. Tidal bore 33. Radial pattern 6. ‘Don’t be a baby!’ 35. Germ 37. Certain fraternity 7. Taj Mahal site 8. Mouth piece? chapter 9. Bearing 39. Certain strain 40. Virginia Woolf novel 10. One encountered in a close 44. Back at sea encounter 45. Modern courtroom 11. Art on skin, evidence slangily 46. Monthly 47. Where the mouth is 12. Middle of a famous 50. Lodge member palindrome 52. Gardener’s soil, 15. Cozy home perhaps 21. ___ but a goody 53. Wheeler-___ 22. Polo Grounds 55. Jellied delicacy
legend 25. Trash 26. Hot dances 27. Eight-person band 28. Put the top on a house 29. BYOB part 30. Ordinal suffix 32. Kingly 34. Some showdowns 36. Later years, poetically 38. Robot banker 41. Krypton, e.g. 42. “___ Dolly!” 43. Married John 48. Suet of animals 49. Ring figure 51. More finely sharpened 54. Airport times 56. Barely beat 58. Really old Italian bread 59. Torrent 60. Stir 61. Teen fave 62. Crawl (with) 63. Yodeling mountain 64. Unit in acoustics 65. “I” problem
Solutions to last week’s puzzles:
Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) Cairo; 2) Swim the English Channel; 3) George II, the last British monarch born outside Great Britain; 4) Energy; 5) Oregon
GOT YOUR NUMBER
ISLAND VIEW
1
This week in history Nov 10, 1974 In Cambodia, Khmer Rouge forces attack the city of Phnom Penh and its airport, killing 44, wounding at least 30 and damaging nine aircraft.
in 20 million are the odds of any given person becoming a saint.
Nov 11, 1880 Australian bushranger Ned Kelly is hanged at Melbourne Gaol.
58
Nov 12, 1990 Tim Berners-Lee publishes a formal proposal for the World Wide Web.
kilograms is how heavy some bear cubs and adult reindeer prey have been observed being carried off by golden eagles.
350
times a second is how fast the Australian blue-banded bee headbangs flowers to collect pollen.
Nov 13, 2015 A set of coordinated terror attacks in Paris, including multiple shootings, explosions, and a hostage crisis in the 10 th and 11th arrondissements kill 130 people, seven attackers, and injured 368 others, with at least 80 critically wounded.
1930
was the first time toilet paper could be advertised as “splinter free” as production techniques had improved.
Nov 14, 1889 Pioneering female journalist Nellie Bly (aka Elizabeth Cochrane) begins a successful attempt to travel around the world in less than 80 days. She completes the trip in 72 days.
200 million of the 1 billion cattle in the world are in India, where the slaughter of cows is largely illegal. Source: Uberfacts
Nov 15, 1933 Thailand holds its first legislative election in history.
Keeping your cool in Phuket. Photo by Valerie Dobson Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket? Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th
Nov 16, 1849 A Russian court sentences writer Fyodor Dostoyevsky to death for anti-government activities linked to a radical intellectual group; his sentence is later commuted to hard labour. Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews
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Buy & Sell
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BUSINESSES FOR SALE n r ge
t sa
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Business for Sale
RESTAURANT BUSINESS IN CHALONG U For rent/sale. Fully equipped & operational, 50 seats Chaofa East road, 400m from Haiyek Traffic Circle. Contact: shchalong@gmail.com
New Salon for SALE
Stylish brand new salon with all equipment and stock for sale at Bang Tao Tinlay Market with all furniture and fixtures. Contact through email at: naveenmarapana@gmail.com or call 080 370 6131 – Kunal, 081 899 0919 –Chin.
SURIN: LUXURIOUS BAR-RESTAURANT SALE
Totally renovated, Italian design & furniture, all-new imported kitchen & bar equipment, ready to operate. Large Bar, DJ booth, garden lounge, rooftop. Seats 50 indoors, 50 in garden, 40 rooftop. 080 143 5541 Pablo.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Tenancy of Clubhouse for sale
Tenant required for already established Bar and Clubhouse in the Thalang area of Phuket. The prospective tenant should have previous chef/catering experience and want to establish their own style of management and expertise in building up their business. The owner of the venue is extending and refurbishing the current building to include a new kitchen space and secondary bar with an extra seating area. The tenancy is for sale for 3-million Thai Baht and includes newly fitted commercial kitchen plus new and existing furniture. Flexible lease terms based on a 3+3 year agreement are available. Existing catering needs of the venue will have to be considered when reviewing the business options. Expressions of interest along with current resume and contact details should be sent to: info@jandgroup.com
BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE Long Tail Boat For Sale
Ready to go “Long Tail Boat” with or Without Captain (Thai) Get special price, please call 085 781 9167 (English) Bangtao Beach, Phuket, B275,000, giorgionaef@aol.com 085 781 9167.
Boating deal of the year: 7.5m baht (reduced from 10m baht)
Due to serious health reasons, the owner must part with his beloved 80’ tour boat. New wiring throughout, power outlets, transformer and voltage meters. New upholstery throughout bar and entertainment area. Engines & generator fully reconditioned & serviced. All maintained to European standards. Ideal boat for quality day trip business. beachsando1@gmail.com 080 695 3933.
CAR FOR SALE 2014 Nissan Juke For Sale
2014 Nissan Juke, one owner, full history, leather interior, rear sensors, climate control. Perfect Phuket runabout, only 82000km. 530,000, soiana56030@gmail.com, 0950 924 729
HOME IMPROVEMENT Flat roof waterproofing
We do flat roof waterproofing with 20-year warranty by installing quality three layer slate spotted bitumen torch foil + crack repair! Email: office@tcm-asia. com. Call: 086-9439834 or 076-385081. @thephuketnews
HOME IMPROVEMENT TechWorX Projects
TechWorX Projects now offer a full Electrical Contractor service. This complements our existing offerings of AV, IT, Home Automation, Home Cinema and Security systems. If you are planning a new build or renovation please contact us for a free consultation. Daragh, 393/8 moo 1 Srisoonthorn road, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket 83110, daragh@techworx.asia, 084 443 9863.
MEMBERSHIPS Loch Palm Golf Membership
Lifetime Loch Palm Golf membership for sale. 400,000 baht, the Loch Palm transfer fee of 72,000 baht will be shared equally between the buyer and seller. sales@joydive.asia
Phuket Country Club Golf Membership
Phuket Country Club Family Golf Lifetime membership for Sale. 2 courses, 9 & 18 hole course, Seller will pay 60,000 baht transfer fee, the buyer pays 380,000 Thai baht. Contact Chris - 087-884-8972
MOVING SERVICES
Looking for a Moving Company?
With over 15 years of experience Bigmove Phuket is the number 1 provider of moving and shipping in and out of Phuket Thailand. We provide storage in a state of the art clean, secure, storage facility located centrally in Phuket. www.bigmovephuket.com. Mr Joe: bigmovephuket@ gmail.com 081-797-5377.
PERSONAL SERVICES Rawai Custom Tailor store
Rawai Tailor – Ladies and Gents custom Tailor Store. Serving local and international clients for the past 10 years, get a free shirt for each suit ordered, fully air conditioned, clean environment, friendly staff, parking space, quality materials, good workmanship and money back guarantee. Located within walking distance from major hotels in Rawai, opposite Sea Shell Museum on Viset road in Rawai. Visit us for free consultation, no obligation to buy. www.RawaiTailor.com Thomas Ghimiray, 158/2, Moo 2, Viset Road, Rawai, Phuket. info@RawaiTailor. com, +6681-415-4883.
PETS, BOARDING Dear Pet Seekers
I have two great dogs looking for a home. According to a Vet, 7.5 years old. I’ll update their shots. Please see pictures, both are great dogs. I’m leaving the country. Contact Chris 087-884-8972.
REAL ESTATE SERVICES Property in Phuket!
Looking to buy property in Phuket? International Property Advisory (IPA) can help! Give us a call today on 076 604 260/ 098 064 4408/ 080 886 9660 Email : info@ipa. black , utopia@ipa.black Website : www.ipaphuket.com.
REAL ESTATE SERVICES Chatta Real Estate
REAL ESTATE & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Chattha Real Estate and Professional Rental Management in Phuket. SELL-BUY-RENT-MANAGEMENT-MAINTENACE-GAURANTEED RENTAL. Inquire NOW! www.chattha.asia, 076-636-244, 090-179-6635. Chanapa, Chattha Real Estate Co., Ltd., info@chattha.asia
PROPERTY FOR SALE Karon condo For Sale
Luxury 5 star 156 sq. meter Foreign Freehold Condo. 2 bedroom 2 bathroom. Partial sea view and great pool views. Completed in 2008, 3 buildings 24 condos. This condo. is second floor of the highest building 'Royal Lotus'. 5 minute walk to Karon Beach and 10 minutes to Karon Central. All furnishings, new 65" smart T.V Netflix Karon Cable and 3BB internet. 0624488838 Ray 9.5 Million, Ray Dixon, Patak Rd Soi 24 4/5 Royal Lotus building Karon Muang, drray@netspace.net.au
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
The Phuket News @thephuketnews
PROPERTY FOR SALE 4 bedroom house
House for sale (Acacia) @ 88 Land & House Koh Kaew. 185sqm, land 280sqm. Corner location. 4 bdr/3 bth. 7.9M only. Partially furnished. Contact : ar.alex. riva@gmail.com or 084 456 5279.
Sankamphaeng – Chiangmai
7 rai (more than 1 ha.) for sale. Have a look! This is chanote land and ready to transfer immediately. From the highway nearby. It is 15 min to the airport. All facilities available. Promenada Shopping Center nearby with the international restaurants. Absolutely quiet. Beautiful nature with many trees. Perfect to build a hotel or 20 family size homes or 120 condos. Phone Kay: 0869180458 (Thai/Eng).
5-bed pool villa, 1.2 Rai
3 detached buildings, L-shaped open plan living, Western kitchen, guest suite, pool 11mx5m, quiet residential area. 1.2 rai plot. THB19,750,000, Mrs Simpson, thaivillaonline@ gmail.com, 0844477248. thaivillaonline.com
Royal Place Condo For Sell
Royal Place Condo is located at the center of Phuket Town, opposite the Tesco Lotus, close to international school, 3 minutes to Big C and Phuket International Hospital, 4 Minutes to Central Festival. 45SQM, 5th floor, Corner Room, 2 balconies, 1 bedroom, 1 living room. Before price 2,800,000 Now Available for 2,250,000. Harry: h.jabary@ gmail.com, 084 249 0526.
Apartment for sale or rent
60 Sqm. 1 bedroom + 1 bathroom and kitchen/living room. Rooftop pool and restaurant. See website Absolute Bangla Suite for photos. Absolutely quiet. Terje Hoff, Absolute Bangla Suite, sfrkata37@gmail.com
Property for Sale/Rent
Ocean View Kata.Fully furnished 1 bedroom condo 44.2.s.q.m. view over Kata bay.Minimum 1 month.For details e-mail ianscondo21@gmail.com Ian
Land: 3 Rai close to Monument
Land for sale in Phuket. 3 Rai close to Monument Thepkrasattri Thalang. Perfect for apartments. Contact Thai/ English 093 619 2323. 12,000,000, supaku1013@hotmail.com
House for Sale in Karon
House for sale the price is negotiable. 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom house in Karon with a salt water pool. Great opportunity to buy in a good location where houses rarely come up for sale. Good as an investment or a place to call home. 16,000,000 Baht, ณริศรา โคทส์, g-a-coatesy@ outlook.com, 063-541-5642.
1 BRM UNITS FOR SALE
Spacious, modern 90sqm luxury European style apartments in a Golf Resort for sale. For further information please contact 062-019-1421. 4.9 Million THB, Bruno, Golf Resort, brunohaag@yahoo.com
PROPERTY FOR RENT Phuket Dream Home
“The Dream” 5 mins to Laguna Phuket Ocean. Very big house, 300 square meters, land 500 square meters. Rent or buy, or both. Available November 3, 2017 to January 15, 2018. Paul, Cherng Talay, Phuket: 085 795 5159.
PROPERTY FOR SALE 4 bedroom house in Chalong
4 king bedrooms (one with ensuite, the others with dedicated bathrooms), 5 bathrooms (1 with a bath, the other showers), Living room, Morning room (lounge/diner), 2 studies, Home cinema, 7 seater, DVD/CD library, 2 carports, 3 separate entrances (+ 5 French windows, a total of 8 exits). Property is at the end of a quiet soi near Big Buddha, no passing traffic. It overlooks a stream and jungle. The garden is 12 years old with bananas, papayas, mulberry bushes, cherry bushes, flowering plants and shrubs and several palm trees. There are frequent bird visitors…2 birdbaths. Just a few minutes drive from Tesco and Villa/Home Pro on Chao Fa West. Only 12 min drive to Central or big Tesco/Big C/Makro. 16.9MB (negotiable). Area of the site: 137.9 square wah (approx 560 square metres). To view, call 081 415 5522 or email m.allen.phuket@gmail.com
COMMUNITY
PROPERTY FOR RENT Apartments for rent
Apartments 1, 2, 3 Bedroom, swimming pool, Free WiFi, Cable TV. Near Loch Palm Golf Club Terrace. Email: Golflandview@gmx.de. Handy location near Loch Palm Golf Club Terrace. 081-891-6632.
Kata Beach Apartment for rent
For rent long term (min 1 year). Kata beach nice-clean Apartment 68sqm. One bedroom close to the indoor pool. B20.000 per month (exclusive electric). For visit tel/sms: 064 532 3637 or email villaonroof@gmail.com
Rawai Naiharn with spa pool
Unique Thai style home, open plan, close to beach and shops, AC, 3-bedroom 2-bathroom with spa pool, must see! Eng: 090 867 4849 Thai: 081 081 9875.
House for Sale/Rent
Locate Baan Saun Loch Palm Kathu. Fully furniture with swimming pool, 3 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms + maid room, 2 living rooms. Large entertainment area. Very convenient location. Close to BIS, Headstart School, shopping centre, Central, Tesco Lotus, 10 min to Patong beach. Easy access to the Airport. Long term lease 65,000/month including pool + garden service. Sale 13.5 millions baht (negotiable). Khun Bea, Loch Palm Kathu, I.thumwong@gmail.com 098 194 9351. thephuketnews
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
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SPORT 29
Touring British Club of Bangkok take control CRICKET Jason Robertson
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Winners of the championship being held in Phuket will go through to the finals being held in Jan 2018. Photo: PR Dept
ast weekend, the island’s cricketing fraternity welcomed back the British Club of Bangkok (BCBKK) for their annual touring matches, with them firstly taking on a local combined team made up with members of the Phuket Cricket Group (PCG) on the Saturday (Nov 4) and then with their old friends The Village Cricket Club on the Sunday (Nov 5). The first game against the PCG saw a unique format, with each team batting for two innings of 15 overs, with the teams alternating turns at the crease. The combined total of the two innings being the score to beat. The PCG batted first and compiled 118 in the first at-bat and 158 in their second attempt. BCBKK responded with 147 in their first innings, which left them 129 to score in their final 15 overs. BCBKK managed to stay ahead of the run rate the whole innings and got over the
Phuket hosts Royal Cup Championship VOLLEYBALL
The Village Cricket Club’s Mudasir Rehman hits a six in their game against British Club of Bangkok at the Alan Cooke Ground last Sunday (Nov 5). Photo: Michael Way the weekend as a whole was a great advertisement for the game and the entertainment it brings to Phuket. The next two Saturdays sees two more touring sides return to our shores. As first, the always entertaining ANZA make their annual visit to Phuket to take on The PCG select VI. Then the following week, the Singapore Cricket Club will play the combined PCG team. Both games will be played at
line, for the victory, with nine balls to spare. The following day at ‘high noon’, BCBKK took on The Village CC in a more standard format of 25 overs per team. BCBKK batted first and scored a mammoth 221 in their allotted 25 overs. The Village CC were always up against it, and although they put up a spirited effort, eventually fell 50 runs short in their chase. The game, however, was played in excellent spirits and
Under 9
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MAN / GIRL OF THE MATCH
U9: Connor Walby and Lily Barnett. @thephuketnews
U11: Martin Giffin and Garri Citrons.
U13/16: Lou Mouillé and Tony Simpson.
the Alan Cooke Ground with starting times of 11am each week. Cricket on the island is still growing and is always looking for new players, teams, and sponsors. If you would like to get involved or know more, please contact the Phuket Cricket Group through Facebook or by email at phuketcricketgroup@gmail.com or check out the website at www. phuketcricket.com
T H E PH U K ET OFFICE of the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand and Phuket City Municipality held the Royal Cup Mini-Volleyball Championship for HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn from Nov 6-11 at the 4,000-seat Gymnasium at Saphan Hin in Phuket Town. The event was opened by Phuket Governor Norraphat Plodthong at 10am on Monday (Nov 6) and he was joined by Phuket City Mayor Somjai Suwansuppana, director of Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Phuket Office Mr Kiettisak Chutong and other relevant officials. Mayor Somjai said, “The
Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Phuket Office and Phuket City Municipality hold this project to support youths’ abilities in playing volleyball. Youths can improve their skills to have a chance at joining the national team. “However, the event is also aimed at supporting youths in playing sports and helping them stay away from drugs during their free time.” Athletes from five provinces; Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi, Ranong and Satun took part in the competition with the male and female winning teams going on to join the national finals to be held in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya from 10-18 January 2018. The Phuket News
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
Ferrari threatens to quit F1
Constructor team considers walking away due to engine debacle BOX OF NEUTRALS Michael Lamonato michael@boxofneutrals.com
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cuderia Ferrari has threatened to walk away from Formula One if it doesn’t agree with proposed regulation changes for 2021. The FIA, the regulator of world motorsport, and Formula One Management (FOM), now administered by American company Liberty Media, last week announced a framework to replace today’s much-maligned power units by 2021. The proposal is for a simplified version of the current turbocharged 1.6-litre hybrid V6 engine. The technologically advanced ‘motor generator unit-heat’ energy system will be dropped in favour of a larger version of the driver-deployed kinetic energy recovery system used in the sport between 2009 and 2013 and engine noise would increase by lifting the rev limit by 3000 RPM. The changes are deceptively complicated. The removal of some of the more advanced
Sergio Marchionne, Chairman of Ferrari talks to the media in the Paddock before the United States Formula One Grand Prix. Photo: Clive Mason / Getty Images / AFP technology will necessitate a significant engine redesign to make up for the loss of power and a stronger internal combustion unit will be required to deal with the increased RPM. Moreover, the FIA will be proposing stringent dimensional constraints to make each engine more alike, enabling teams to switch between suppliers more easily. Both the FIA
and FOM hope the proposed regulation package will entice new engine builders to the grid, including the likes of Aston Martin, Porsche and Cosworth. But the changes have drawn the ire of Ferrari Chairman Sergio Marchionne, who believes reducing the opportunity for manufacturers to differentiate their engines makes the sport less worthwhile.
“There are a couple of things we don’t necessarily agree with,” he said in a conference call to market analysts. “One is the fact that somehow powertrain uniqueness is not going to be one of the drivers of distinctiveness of the participants line-up. I would not countenance this going forward. “Unless we find a set of
circumstances, the results of which are beneficial to the maintenance of the brand and the marketplace and to the strengthening of the unique position for Ferrari, Ferrari will not play.” The famous Italian marque has unlikely allies in on-track rivals Mercedes and Renault, both of which are sceptical about the need for change. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff told the BBC he is concerned the changes would needlessly “trigger immense costs… just for the sake of having a new concept”, while Renault’s Cyril Abiteboul said the cost, noise and power targets, “could have been done with the current engine architecture anyway”. Adding spice to the dispute is Ferrari’s veto over new regulations, a concession first granted by the FIA to the team in 2005, meaning the Italians can’t be left behind despite broad agreement between the FIA and FOM. However, the engine proposals are only one part of a broader overhaul, with other technical regulations and, more importantly, the commercial
contracts that bind the teams to the sport all up for renewal by 2021. Ferrari’s veto and controversial US$100 million (B3.31 billion) long-standing team bonus, along with the smaller bonuses granted to other powerful teams during Bernie Ecclestone’s reign, are included in these contracts, as is the sport’s infamously inequitable prize money structure. FOM and the FIA are set to unveil their vision for these components post-2020 at a meeting with the teams ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix (Nov 12). Anticipated to feature prominently is a plan to cap team spending, an idea long coveted by the FIA to support the independent teams but an idea opposed by the big-spending manufacturers, in particular Ferrari. These are the terms over which the bloodiest fighting will take place, and the belligerents are only just warming up. Don’t forget to tune in to Live89.5 each and every Saturday from 9am for the Box of Neutrals radio show.
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
SPORT 31
PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
Four things we learned in the Premier League M FOOTBALL
AFP
anchester City were left eight points clear at the top of the table after they beat Arsenal 3-1 as secondplaced Manchester United lost ground with a 1-0 loss away to reigning champions Chelsea. Tottenham Hotspur maintained their
Conte keeps axe-man Abramovich at bay
Given his record of ruthlessly disposing of managers perceived to be underachieving, the sight of demanding Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich at the club’s training ground this week might have given Blues boss Antonio Conte cause Antonio Conte celefor concern. Amid rumours brates with Andreas that Chelsea’s players were Christensen (left) after beginning to resent Conte’s the match with Man Utd intense training regime, a last Sunday (Nov 5). midweek thrashing at Roma Photo: Glyn Kirk / AFP in the Champions League added to the feeling the Italian was in danger of becoming Abramovich’s latest victim. With the Premier League champions falling well behind leaders Manchester City and Conte not hiding his frustration at the club’s transfer market failings, he couldn’t afford a defeat against Manchester United last Sunday (Nov 5). That Chelsea won 1-0, thanks to Alvaro Morata's 55th-minute header winner should calm talk about Conte’s future – for now.
Sanchez struggles sum up Arsenal plight
“He wants to be blue,” chanted Manchester City fans in regard to Alexis Sanchez as they recalled how the Arsenal star nearly joined their club during the last transfer window. Yet after a decisive win over the Gunners, with City 12 points clear of Arsene Wenger’s side, it was hard to see how Sanchez, who was not at his best, would get into the Etihad 1st XI even if a deal is revived in January.
Alexis Sanchez runs with the ball during the match between Manchester City and Arsenal last Sunday. Photo: Oli Scarff / AFP
title charge thanks to a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace at Wembley while Liverpool get West Ham manager Slaven Bilic the sack with a 4-1 win away to the Hammers. Here are four things we learned in the Premier League last weekend:
Spurs showing stomach for title fight
It is more than 50 years since Tottenham Hotspur were last crowned champions of England. The intervening decades have witnessed plenty of entertaining football from the London club only for a lack of defensive solidity to prove their undoing. That Son Heung-min (left) they backed up their thrilling tackles Crystal Palace’s midweek Champions League Luka Milivojevic durwin over Real Madrid with ing their games last a scrappy 1-0 victory over Saturday. Photo: Ben Premier League basement Stansall / AFP club Crystal Palace suggests, however, that Spurs can produce the kind of grinding wins needed to sustain a title challenge.
Salah repays Klopp’s faith
When Jurgen Klopp persuaded Mohamed Salah to choose Liverpool ahead of several other suitors from Europe’s elite, even the Reds boss couldn’t have expected his signing to make such a superb start to life at Anfield. Salah’s previous taste of the Pre- Mohamed Salah (centre) mier League had been a celebrates after scoring disappointing spell with with Liverpool’s Emre Can Chelsea, but the Egypt (left) and Alberto Moreno. winger was revitalised Photo: Ben Stansall / AFP by a stint in Italy and his form for Roma was good enough to persuade Klopp to bring him back to England in a £34 million (B1.48 billion) deal in the close-season. Salah has repaid Klopp’s faith by scoring 12 goals, including two in last Saturday’s (Nov 4) 4-1 win at West Ham.
HASH HOUSE HARRIERS
Premier League Predictions: Congratula-
tions to Adam Rosindale, who with 20 points was the October monthly winner of The Phuket News’ Premier League Predictions Competition. Adam won himself a B3,000 voucher to spend at any one of the island’s Two Chefs outlets. @thephuketnews
Run #1658: Saturday Nov 11 Run Start Time: 3:30pm Hares: Wilma, Prince Charles FT Location: Chalong - Big Buddha Directions: From Chalong Circle heading towards Central go on for 1.1 kilometres and just past the stoplight turn Left on Jaofa 51 between the Family Mart and the new 7/Eleven. Coming from Central, go 1.3km and just past the PTT station turn right at Jaofa 51 as above. Follow Big Buddha signs and Bird of Paradise signs. At 1km past Bird of Paradise on your left is LAE LAY Restaurant, so 200 metres past it and turn into the laager site. Park in the low clearance and small cars first lot, followed by truck and motorbike parking along road up to the laager on a small hill. Laager sight gate opening and permission to use the property will not be until 2pm so don’t be too early. Bus pick-up: Kamala @ Black Cat’s Bar: 1:45pm Patong @ Expat Hotel: 2:15pm More info: phuket-hhh.com
MAIN SPONSOR
MONTHLY SPONSOR
The overall competition winner will receive a 3 day/2 night stay in a Sri Panwa one bedroom luxury private pool villa including daily breakfast plus a 120 minute spa treatment for two persons. Total prize value: B123,000 The monthly competition winner for November 2017 will receive a B3,000 voucher to spend at Walkabout Sports Bar in Karon.
EPL PREDICTIONS MONTHLY STANDINGS
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
OVERALL STANDINGS
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
jaysinky 8 chook 7 malcmanning 7 AAY 6 aquamarine 6
TC 63 adamrosindale 61 lufc 61 celticpride 59 chook 59
English Premier League 2017 - 2018 Team
MP
W
D
L
F
A
GD
Pts
1
Manchester City
11
10
1
0
38
7
+31
31
2
Manchester United
11
7
2
2
23
5
+18
23
3
Tottenham Hotspur
11
7
2
2
20
7
+13
23
4
Chelsea
11
7
1
3
19
10
+9
22
5
Liverpool
11
5
4
2
21
17
+4
19
6
Arsenal
11
6
1
4
20
16
+4
19
7
Burnley
11
5
4
2
10
9
+1
19
8
Brighton and Hove
11
4
3
4
11
11
0
15
9
Watford
11
4
3
4
17
21
-4
15
10
Huddersfield Town
11
4
3
4
8
13
-5
15
11
Newcastle United
11
4
2
5
10
10
0
14
12
Leicester City
11
3
4
4
16
16
0
13
13
Southampton
11
3
4
4
9
11
-2
13
14
Stoke City
11
3
3
5
13
22
-9
12
15
Everton
11
3
2
6
10
22
-12
11
16
West Brom
11
2
4
5
9
14
-5
10
17
Bournemouth
11
3
1
7
7
14
-7
10
18
West Ham United
11
2
3
6
11
23
-12
9
19
Swansea City
11
2
2
7
7
13
-6
8
20
Crystal Palace
11
1
1
9
4
22
-18
4
Live Sports TV Schedule *Times may be subject to change
SPORT
START STOP
EVENT
TEAMS / INFO
Friday November 10 Rugby League 15:40
18:00
World Cup - Canberra
Fiji v. Italy
Rugby Union 19:00
21:00
Friendly
Japan v. Brazil
Saturday November 11 Rugby Union 22:00
23:55
Autumn Internationals
England v. Argentina
00:15
02:00
Autumn Internationals
Ireland v. South Africa Scotland v. Samoa
21:15
23:15
Autumn Internationals
21:00
23:00
Autumn Internationals
Italy v. Fiji
Rugby League 12:00
14:00
World Cup - Hamilton
New Zealand v Tonga
Rugby Union
14:10
16:00
World Cup - Cairns
Samoa v. Scotland
16:00
18:00
World Cup - Sydney
Australia v Lebanon
Motor Racing 22:45
00:30
Formula 1
Qualifying, Sao Paulo
Sunday November 12 Motor Bikes
15:30
20:30
MotoGP
Grand Prix of Valencia
Rugby Union
17:00
18:20
Autumn Internationals
France v. New Zealand (Rpt)
Soccer
23:30
01:30
WC Qualifier
Switzerland v. N Ireland
Motor Racing 22:00
22:45
Formula 1
Raceday, Sao Paulo
22:45
01:30
Formula 1
Brazil Grand Prix
Rugby League 12:00
14:00
World Cup – Townsville
PNG v. USA
14:30
16:30
World Cup - Townsville
Wales v. Ireland
17:00
19:00
World Cup - Townsville
England v. France
Sport
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
editor3@classactmedia.co.th
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2017
Ferrari threatens to quit amid engine debacle > p30
TITLE TAKER
Brutal TKO for Ponet brings FMD lightweight ‘katana’ to Phuket Full results of FMD 15: “Come out to Play”
Jason Ponet def. Tommy Harden via TKO at 3:35 in Round 1 Tharoth Sam def. Kaewjai Prachumwong via submission at 4:47 in Round 1 Mehdi Bagheri def. Javier Trujillo via submission at 2:36 in Round 2 Meas Meul def. Allen Chong via submission at 2:51 in Round 2 Sunisa Srisan def. Phunsasorn Thanuthon via TKO at 1:32 in Round 2 Detchadin Srosirisuphathin def. Kushal Vyas via TKO at 1:02 in Round 1 Akihiro Fujisawa def. Jirawa Aunjai via submission at 2:24 in Round 1
Phuket-based fighter Jason Ponet brandishes his championship ‘katana’ after being crowned new FMD lightweight champion. Photo: Singapore Maven
MMA Jean-Pierre Mestanza tv @classactmedia.co.th
I
t was a brutal finish to an entertaining night of fights at Full Metal Dojo 15: “Come Out to Play” in Bangkok as Phuket-based fighter Jason Ponet walked away with the promotion’s Lightweight title.
Ponet (17-11), a Frenchman who has been training at Phuket’s AKA Thailand under former UFC-star Mike Swick, managed to put away ex-champion Tommy Hayden (11-4) with head shots that resulted in a TKO in the first round. Hayden, a UFC-veteran with a strong wrestling pedigree, attempted to out-grapple the Frenchman for most of the
bout at Insanity Nightclub last Saturday (Nov 4). From the opening bell, Hayden’s relentless wrestling attack was working, as he took down Ponet. But the Frenchman managed to get some separation in the middle of the round and countered a take-down from Hayden with swift kicks, forcing a referee stoppage for soccer kicks to the head,
allowed under the promotion’s rules. Ponet, the only Phuketbased fighter on the card, came away with the championship ‘katana’, awarded to newly-crowned titleholders. He’s just the second lightweight champion in the Bangkok-based promotion’s history. “In AKA [Thailand], we are always ready. I’ve just
done two Muay Thai fights last month,” Ponet told The Phuket News. “So I was ready to fight. I just did some preparation for my MMA fight and of course my opponent. “I just won the FMD lightweight title so I’m ready to defend it, or for any good challenge.” The rest of the Full Metal Dojo 15 card included fighters from around Thailand and
the region, including Tharoth Sam “Little Frog” (4-2) of Cambodia stopping Thailand’s Kaewjai Prachumwong (0-2) during a women’s catchweight bout, via Round 1 armbar submission. Meanwhile, in what was considered the card’s “Fight of the Night”, Iran’s Mehdi Bagheri (4-1) submitted American Javier Trujillo (3-1) in Round 2 via rear-naked choke.
Thanyapura Colour Fun Run is back! FUN RUN LAST YEAR’S EVENT WAS cancelled as a mark of respect for the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej who passed away on Oct 13, 2016. But now the island’s most colourful and fun race is back and is set to take place on Dec 9 from 6am to 10am at Saphan Hin Park in Phuket Town. The Thanyapura Colour Fun Run 2017 will this year form part of the island’s newest sporting event, the Phukethon, and it’s an event where
the fun aspect far outweighs the importance of how quick you can finish the race. But if there’s one thing all participants will have in common as they cross the finish line, it’s that they will all finish looking like they’ve gone head-to-head with a rainbow, as all along the route are paint stations where race marshals will do their utmost to get you covered in colourful powder paint. And that’s in addition to each race participant being given powder paint of their own to throw at those that cross their paths.
So gather your friends or gear up solo for the race and we’ll see you “Colour Runners” all coloured up at the finish line! The race is open to all age groups and limited to 1,000 participants. Medals and complimentary meals are awarded to all finishers. Race Day: Saturday 9th December, 2017 Start Time: 6am –10am Venue: Saphan Hin Estimate Number of Participants: 1,000 pax Prizes: All finishers receive a medal
Collection of race packs: Friday December 8 at Saphan Hin from 10am-6pm Race check-in: Saturday December 9 6am-7am at Saphan Hin Fee inclusion: Food at the finish line, refreshments, 500 grams of coloured powder paint, sunglasses and T-shirt Registration Channels: 1. Eventbrite: http://bit.ly/2hd0Zfi 2. Email: events@thanyapura. com, Tel: +66 7633 6000 This event is proudly sponsored by The Phuket News and Live 89.5
He’s always been a colourful character, but Class Act Media GM Jason Beavan has never been as colourful as this.
Entry Fee Distance
Regular
1k
B450
2k
B550
5k
B650
thephuketnews