14-02-2014 by The Phuket News

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CHALONG PIER FEES CUT IN WAKE OF BOATMEN PROTEST > PAGE 4

THIRD DIVE BOAT SINKS

NEWS

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Heart attack claims popular Russian diver

LIFE

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BISP teacher shows students how it’s done

Smiling as they approach Chalong onboard the fishing boat that rescued them are some of the 15 French tourists saved after the dive boat Bunmee I caught fire and sank.

Alasdair Forbes & Claire Connell editor@classactmedia.co.th

he toll of dive boats lost at sea in the past 16 days has risen to three, with one sinking last Sunday (February 10) in Burmese waters and news emerging of another having sunk near the Hin Daeng-Hin

Muang dive site on February 1. Both had to be abandoned after fire on board, most likely caused by electrical faults. The two sinkings come on top of the loss of the dive boat Magic Carpet on January 29 after something snagged in the propeller and smashed a hole in the hull (as reported in the

February 7 issue of The Phuket News, see thephuketnews.com). News of the February 1 loss of the MV Bunmee I near Hin Daeng-Hin Muang, around 60km southwest of Koh Lanta, emerged only this week after The Phuket News was contacted by one of the passengers. The sinking had been kept very

quiet, with rumours but no facts circulating in dive industry circles. That was until the passenger, asking to be named only as Xavier, gave The Phuket News details. He said that five crew and 15 French tourists, ranging in age from 38 to 67, were rescued after the dive boat caught fire and sank.

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A layman’s fishing guide to local waters

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Gun ’n’ roses: strange find in abandoned car after Phuket Town car chase > page 6

High seas drama as dive boats burn and go down Continued from page 1. Xavier explained that the boat left Phuket around 10.30pm on February 1 for a four-day diving cruise to Hin Daeng-Hin Muang. Four hours later, around 2.30 am, while the tourists were all asleep, someone on board smelled smoke and raised the alarm. As smoke began to pour into the cabin area from the engine bay below, people were forced out onto the open deck. “There were flames about one metre high, then the crew used an extinguisher. After that the fire was hidden by the large amount of smoke,” Xavier said. All on board evacuated to the top deck, where they realised that all power had

been lost. This meant no more radio, Xavier said. And being so far out to sea, there was no mobile phone service, so no way to send out a distress call. “We were scared of course, especially because we couldn’t alert anyone to our difficulties. “In addition, the lifeboat didn’t inf late when it was thrown into the sea – the crew tried for 20 minutes before it inflated,” he told The Phuket News. Xavier said someone on board lashed together an emergency battery using diving lamps, and managed to get the radio working again, but still no one had any accurate idea of their position. Finally, someone on board managed to use their iPhone to get the GPS location of the

The dive boat MV Blue Star, as pictured on the website of its owners, Chalong Sea Sport. boat, and around 20 minutes later, the MV Bunmee I made VHF contact with a fishing boat. “One hour later, the fish-

ing boat found us [and took us on board]. Once we left the boat, 30 minutes later the boat was totally on fire. We saw it burning before sinking,” he told The Phuket News. The fishing boat brought all back to Chalong Pier, arriving around six hours later. “No one was injured, but we lost almost all our belongings,” Xavier said. “Twelve of us lost our passports, and then had a 12-hour bus trip to Bangkok to get a laissez-passer [a temporary travel document allowing them to return home to France] before taking the plane back to Paris.” The Phuket News made repeated attempts to contact the MW Bunmee I’s owners, Kata-based French dive company Andaman Scuba, but all calls went unanswered. The third sinking came last Sunday (February 9), when the MV Blue Star, belonging to Chalong Sea Sport, also caught fire and sank in Burmese waters while on a week-long dive trip. All 20 or so people on board were rescued by a passing fishing boat, though they lost their belongings, and a great deal of expensive dive gear went down with the boat. Pekka Torri, the Finnish managing director of Chalong Sea Sport, confirmed that the boat had been lost with all equipment after a fire. The Phuket News understand that the fire may have been the result of an electrical fault. Mr Torri confirmed that all the crew and divers were

Approximate locations of the three dive boat sinkings. rescued unharmed, having been taken off the burning vessel by a passing fishing boat. All have now returned to Phuket, he said. He declined to comment further. T he Blue Star was a 28-metre liveaboard vessel with 13 cabins capable of

accommodating up to 26 passengers. She had a maximum speed on 10 knots. The sinking of the Blue Star has been a severe blow to the owner, Chalong Sea Sport. Mr Torri emailed dive industry colleagues this week to inform them about the sinking. The email said, in part, “All our trips from now on are cancelled. Please do not book with us anymore... Our equipment what we have left will be on sale soon. We will make a list and prices for those who are interested.” When asked by The Phuket News if this meant the company was closing, Mr Torri said, “I can’t make any comment now about the company.” Of the three boats sunk in the past two weeks, two were lost to fires, most likely started by electrical problems. Asked why fires occur on board dive boats, a Patong-based dive company owner, speaking on condition on anonymity, said, “It’s not just dive boats. It’s all tourist boats. “There are three problems: First, the market is so flooded with bad, cheap copies of electrical equipment that it is impossible to buy good, genuine parts, so the parts you buy are not so reliable. “Second, there is a lack of skilled electricians on the island. Some of them think they know what they are doing, but they don’t really. “And third, we’re in business, we’re in competition. So repairs at this time of year often have to be done at night, fast, and under pressure.” Opinion: Page 10

The crew of the Bunmee I struggled for 20 minutes to get the life raft to inflate. In the event it was not needed. thephuketnews

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Heart attacks claim prominent Russians T

Many Buddhists will spend time at the temple today.

Holiday today, no alcohol IN ADDITION TO BEING Valentine’s Day, today (Friday, February 14) is also Makha Bucha Day, one of the most important in the Buddhist Calendar and a public holiday. In most parts of the island it will also be a no-alcohol day. Although compliance is technically voluntary, a ban on the sale or serving of alcohol for 24 hours from midnight on Thursday is interpreted with different degrees of zeal by various authorities. Makha Bucha Day marks the anniversary of the Buddha’s first major sermon. On a full moon some 2,500 years ago, 1,250 Arahants – men worthy of veneration for their understanding – came together, with no prior arrangement, to visit the Buddha at Veluwan temple.

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The Buddha ordained them as monks and passed to them the basic principles of Buddhism: To eschew all evil, to do only what is good, and to cleanse the mind, along with other teachings. Devout Buddhists traditionally make a special effort to go to the wat on this day to perform merit-making ceremonies. There are many temples in Phuket to visit for this occasion. The most popular temples are Wat Chalong, Wat Phra Thong, Wat Khao Rang, Phuket Big Buddha, Wat Mai Luang Pu Supha, and Wat Srisoonthorn. Government offices will all be closed with the exception of the three district registration offices which will be working flat out to register marriages on Valentine’s Day.

wo well-known Russians died in Phuket in the past few days. The first was expat Vladimir Karmazin, principal of the Aqua Center dive company in Rawai, who died on February 6 of acute heart failure. He was 57. The second, late on Saturday (February 8), was Timur Ivanov, a journalist and chief producer of Russian broadcasting company Ugra. He was on holiday in Phuket when he collapsed at his hotel and died. Mr Karmazin left Russia around 20 years ago and took German nationality. Before coming to Thailand the stocky, popular Russian was a professional sportsman in finswimming and underwater orienteering. He was a world champion in 1980, 1987, and 1989 and European champion in 1988 and 1990. He was also honoured by the former USSR as a Master of Sports. After his professional underwater sports career came to an end, he worked as a pro-

Left, sportsman Vladimir Karmazin with diving student. Right, broadcaster Timur Invanov. fessional trainer. He coached the Bavarian State team and the German National Team, and was senior coach of the Thailand Finswimming Team. The Thai finswimmers achieved great success in the 3rd Asian Indoor Games, and the 25th SEA Games, both in 2009, catching national attention when they returned home with bags loaded with medals. In Phuket his Aqua Center offers PADI, CMAS and SSI dive training, and has its own 60-passenger dive boat, the East Star, on which it takes customers on dive trips, mostly

around Phi Phi or Koh Racha. He was also the official underwater sports trainer for the Phuket-based Thailand Diving Association. A memorial service will be held at Wat Tai on Chao Fah East Rd in Chalong. Mr Ivanov, who was staying at the Bangtao Tropical Residence with two friends, was just 43 years old when he died late on Saturday night. Hotel medical staff told police they were called after Mr Ivanov became ill and very pale. Worried, they called the Kusondharm Rescue Service who, when they arrived found

the Russian apparently lifeless. Despite their best attempts, they were unable to revive him. The exact cause of death of his death has yet to be determined, but it is believed he may have suffered a heart attack. Mr Ivanov entered journalism in the early 1990s in the Urals, his name linked with the flourishing of independent media in the region following the end of Communism. For the past three years he was chief producer of Ugra TV. Mr Ivanov’s remains were taken to Thalang Hospital for autopsy to confirm the cause of death.

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Paiboon Upatising (check shirt, top) chairs the meeting. Photo: Phuripat Theerakulpisut

he Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (OrBorJor) the owner of Chalong Pier, has reduced its proposed fees for taking motorbikes onto the pier. On Saturday (February 8) local boatmen used a chain to block off the last 100 metres of the pier in a protest against fees announced by the OrBorJor. At the meeting on Monday, co-chaired by Phuripat Theerakulpisut, Director of Marine Department and Paiboon

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POLICE DISCOVERED ON Wednesday night (February 5) that the Bai Bua (Lily Pad) beauty salon in Tambon Thepkrassattree contained more than nail polish and makeup. In the back of the shop they found 92 kilos of ganja with an estimated street value of around B8 million, a pistol with 130 rounds of ammunition and an M67 grenade. Acting on a tip-off Pol Col Arun Kaewwatee and his men surrounded the salon and spoke with the owner, Wipawadee

Some of the one-kilo bricks of ganja seized from the salon. “Ying” Maudchana. She led them to the back of the shop where they encountered two men, Suriya Chauyjaun, 34, from Songkhla, and Netithorn Watdina, 49, from Nakhon Pathom.

They also found the weapons and the ganja: 92 one-kilo bricks of pressed marijuana in five plastic containers in front of a bedroom at the back of the salon. Both men confessed. Eakkapop Thongtub

Upatising, President of the , it was decided that the fee for driving a motorbike onto the pier would now be B2 for a quick visit, B10 for the whole day and B100 for a three-wheeler. In addition, mooring fees for boats have been adjusted. The OrBorJor is using good old-fashioned double pricing: B10 per foot per day for "foreign-owned" boats: B100 a day for Thai-owned boats of up to 50 feet in length and B200 per day for Thai boats longer than that. Monthly mooring fees for speed boats will be B2,500.

‘Micro-sleep’ durian driver takes out two cars, bike and pole A PICKUP TRUCK DRIVER on his way to deliver durian in Phuket had what he later told police was a “micro-sleep” on Saturday (February 8) at about 10 am. Noppadon Jongsuksai, 21, from Suphanburi, was rudely woken from his mini-snooze by a series of severe jolts and loud noises as his Nissan Navara truck took out two cars,

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Boats using the embarkation raft will be charged B150 a time, with time limited to three hours maximum. Other fees remain unchanged. Boat owner Wisit Ittiwarapornkul said he suspects that the wrangling may not yet be over, however. He told The Phuket News, “I think the Chalong locals will not want to pay this [B2] fee. “They argue that the OrBorJor [when it built the pier] allowed local people to park on it for free.” People expected that to apply in perpetuity, he said.

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a motorbike and a power pole about 300 metres from the main intersection in Kathu. Noppadon told police that he had a job delivering durians and was taking a load from the downtown market in Phuket Town to a customer near Kathu waterfall when he nodded off. No one was injured in the accident or by flying durians. Eakkapop Thongtub

Tapper killed by branch A 67-YEAR-OLD MAN was found dead in a rubber plantation on Monday afternoon (February 10), the victim of a fallen branch. Jaroon Tankonggoy, who lived in Moo 2, Tambon Srisoontorn, suffered multiple injuries from the falling branch. His wife Pranom said her husband went out to tap rubber at 3am but did not return as usual for lunch. She went looking for him and found him dead under a large branch. She went back home and asked relatives to help her retrieve his body, which was then taken to Thalang hospital. Eakkapop Thongtub thephuketnews

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Meeting discusses ‘dirty bomb’ threat Wiparatana NaThalang reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

S A policeman writes up his report of the incident.

Car flips after crash A YOUNG WOMAN WORKing as ground staff for Bangkok Airways was hurt, though not badly, in a spectacular crash on Sunday (February 9) which ended with her car landing on its roof in the middle of Phuket’s main highway, causing serious traffic problems. The crash took place on the main Thepkrassattree Rd near Thalang as Porawan Chuaykam, 27, was driving her

Honda Jazz home from work. Police learned that she had been rammed from behind by a Honda city being driven at speed by Sitthisak Kongkaew, 39. The impact rammed Ms Porawan’s car into the median strip, causing it to flip onto its roof. She was taken to hospital with injuries to her right arm and shoulder. Mr Sitthisak was unhurt. Eakkapop Thongtub

Plenty of supply, says water boss THE PROVINCIAL WAterworks Authority (PWA) has countered fears that the island is once again running out of fresh water because of the record numbers of tourists arriving in the long dry season. A nu mbe r of government agencies have voiced concern that the huge numbers of tourists are putting unsustainable strain on the island’s water resources and shortages are inevitable. But PWA office director Pisak Cholyut insisted that the PWA is confident that supply from Bang Wad reservoir in Kathu – which currently contains six million cubic metres of water, more than in most years – is sufficient to meet demand from Kathu and Phuket Town.

In the nor th of the island, the Bang Neaw reservoir is almost full, he said, and private sources on the island are good, meaning there is nothing to worry about. The PWA is not sitting on its laurels, however. The Klong Krata reservoir in Chalong has been dogged with problems going back almost a decade, but work is now 50 per cent complete and is expected to be finished next year. Mr Pisak said that the next project will be to raise the height of the Bang Wad dam by two metres. This will increase the reservoir’s capacity from 7.3 million cubic metres to 11.3 million. Construction will begin next month, he said. Suthicha Sirirat

ecurity experts from 17 countries met on Tuesday (February 11) at the Phuket Panwa Beach Resort for four days of discussions and exchanges of information on protecting the world – including Phuket – from “dirty bombs”. Dirty bombs are conventional explosive devices combined with radioactive material, the aim being not only to kill. Maim and destroy property, but also to contaminate the area around the blast with radioactivity. So far, dirty bombs are only a frightening theory – no one has ever detonated one – but security services worldwide are on constant watch for signs that someone may be trying to make and use one. At Tuesday’s opening session of the Fourth Regional Review Meeting on Radiological Security Partnerships, presided over by Vice-Governor Somkiet Sangkhaosutthirak, five experts from Thailand and 35 from Australia, Canada, Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and the United States met to discuss the latest developments. Also represented were the Office of Atoms for Peace and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Over the four days of the conference, which runs until Friday, delegates will discuss aspects of the three main processes for ensuring nuclear security: – Prevention of theft, sabotage, unauthorized access, illegal transfer or other malicious acts involving radioactive material, other radioactive substances or their associated facilities,

Bryan Reed, left, of the US Global Threat Reduction Initiative and Brian Waud of the IAEA Office of Nuclear Security. – Detection, with measures taken to control and protect nuclear and other radioactive material from falling into the wrong hands, and – Response with training, education and radioactive technical assistance. Bryan Reed of the US Global Threat Reduction Initiative told The Phuket News what he feels should be the priorities for Phuket and other holiday destinations in order to counter the threat of dirty bombs. “We are trying to guard radioactive equipment such as body scanner and other medical equipment which contain radioactive material that might be stolen and use in making a dirty bomb. “Not only can they use this radioactive material to make a dirty bomb, but also they can sell it to another country [that wishes] to cause serious damage to us.” He said that in Mexico, medical equipment containing radioactive material was stolen but the thief was caught. He noted that despite the arrest and the

recovery of the material, the authorities still could not pinpoint who the intended ultimate recipient of the material was. Asked whether the meeting had been prompted in part by the unrest in Bangkok, he said it had not. “It has nothing to do with what is happening in Bangkok. I don’t have an opinion on that matter.” Brian Waud of the Office of Nuclear Security at the IAEA said, “We have 180 members all over the world who cooperate in our radioactive source security. “We realized that if a dirty bomb were to be detonated, it would have a costly impact on the environment from contamination, depending on the type of material used. “Our objective is to continue to develop our cooperative network in detection and prevention [to safeguard] radioactive sources from theft and sabotage attempts. “We need to train participants to secure their radioactive sources [in the most efficient ways possible].”

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German dies of Gun Viagra overdose A GERMAN EXPATRIATE was found dead in his room at a short-time hotel in Phuket Town on Friday afternoon (February 7). Police and the Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation were called after hotel staff found Karl Peter Huch, 70, from Berlin, stretched out dead on the bed at the rooming house on Kra Rd. On a table they found various medicines including a

packet of Kamagra, a Thai version of Viagra. Staff said Mr Huch arrived at the hotel at about 1:30 pm and paid for a short stay. Two hours later a member of the hotel staff came to remind him his time was up. Receiving no response the staffer went into the room and found the German’s body. Police suspect he may have died of a sildenafil (Kamagra) overdose. Eakkapop Thongtub

Student, 15, dies in bike-pickup smash ONE STUDENT DIED AND two were badly hurt when the bike they were riding was in collision with a pickup truck on Tuesday morning (February 11). The crash took place at 8.30 am in front of the Bank of Ayudhya branch on Pa Khlok Rd, about 700 metres from the Heroines Monument. All three boys were rushed to Thalang Hospital where the driver of the bike, 15-year-old Chaiwat Chailiam, died of his injuries.

The other two, Pongsakorn Pannattee, 15, and Chatdanai Thammachot, 13, were stabilised and then moved to Vachira Phuket Hospital. R at ch a d ap or n Pon kwamdee, 38, the driver of the pickup truck, told police that she was driving east and was making a turn into Niramit 5 Village, next to the bank. She paused before making the turn and then, she said, felt something smash into the back of her truck. Eakkapop Thongtub

’n’ roses found after police chase P

olice on Monday (February 10) found a bizarre juxtaposition of items in the back of a car whose driver abandoned it after an epic police chase and crash in Phuket Town. After the driver and his companion leapt out of the black Toyota Yaris and ran off, officers found two bouquets of red roses, a photo of the driver posing with a gun and another of him with someone they believe is his girlfriend. They also found a pistol. The incident began when police set up a checkpoint near Soi Pa Hin Nam Sai near Saphan Hin. As the Nakhon Sri Thammarat-registered Yaris with two men in it approached they waved it down,. But the driver had other ideas and accelerated through the checkpoint. A motorbike cop gave chase. They sped into Phuket Town, along Montri Rd to the Seng Ho bookstore, where the Yaris driver swerved into Dibuk Rd, then into Thepkrassattri Rd.

Police check the Toyota Yaris after the smash in Phuket Town. Before the car reached the clock tower circle, the motorbike cop overtook it and cut in front. The car screeched to a halt and then reversed abruptly, slamming into another Toyota close behind, driven by a terrified 49-year-old life insurance seller named Natthapat Rattanapan.

Realising he would not be able to drive out of the situation, the driver and passenger jumped out of the Yaris and legged it. Witnesses described the driver as “skinny and tattooed”, while the passenger was described as overweight. Officers took the Yaris with its gun and roses cargo to

the police station and checked the registration, discovering that it belonged to a Ms Wassana Pakdeekit of Nakhon Sri Thammarat. They are now attempting to contact her to find out how her car came to be involved in the chase, and to identify the two men in it. Eakkapop Thongtub

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A policeman inspects the bus’s scorched paintwork.

Vandals suspected in tour bus torching FIRE – POSSIBLY THE work of teenage vandals – broke out late on Sunday night (February 9) in a broken-down tour bus parked for the past week near the Siam Nissan showroom close to Tesco-Lotus Thalang. Thalang police received an emergency call at 11:30pm but by the time they reached the scene the fire, in the left rear wheel arch of the bus, had been extinguished by local people and security guard from Siam Nissan, who had dragged a hose the 150 metres from the car showroom. The bus was left with scorched paintwork at the wheel arch but was otherwise undamaged.

Sanit Kongmuang, the security guard, said that he had not seen the fire start but was alerted by locals who had spotted it, and he had helped them to drag the hose to the fire. Police discovered that the Bangkok-registered bus belonged to a company specialising in Chinese tourists. It had broken down a week before and had been left by the side of the road, unguarded. They said they suspected the fire may have been started by a group of teenagers who had been seen in the area earlier on. The owners of the bus have been contacted and told to remove it before it is damaged further. Eakkapop Thongtub

HEROIC EFFORT Descendants of the Phuket’s two Heroines met on Sunday (February 9) to firm up plans for “Descendents Reunited Day” on the evening of March 11. Representatives of 15 families descended from Thao Thepkrassattree and Thao Srisoonthorn met at the home of Thanit Prateep Na Thalang to discuss the plans. The 15 families are the Prateep Na Tha-

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Passport Office finally reopens T

he Phuket Passport Office reopened on Monday (February 10) after a lengthy closure due to the activities of Phuket’s anti-government People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) protesters. The office is part of the Provincial Hall complex, which has been closed since November 27 last year when it was “occupied” by 2,000 protesters. On Monday there was disappointment for some as the office announced that it can handle only 120 applications a day, opening from 8am to 3.30pm so that staff can process applications and be out by 5pm, the deadline agreed with the PDRC. Siriporn Tantipanyathep, chief of the Passport Office, said, however, “Passports will be ready in six or seven days from initial application, which is different from before, when it took a month. “We will open every day provided there is no problem [with the protesters].

There were long queues when the Passport Office opened on Monday. “Some people came today as early as 5 am. We apologise to those who came but were unable to file their applications.

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to wait for a while so that we can deal with those who need their passports urgently.” Suthicha Sirirat

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Luxury chain Aman sold L

eading global luxury chain Aman, owner of Phuket’s resort of the rich and famous, Amanpuri, is expected to be taken over this week by a joint venture company composed of Peak Resorts and Adrian Zecha – the man who founded the company. Hospitality consultant Bill Barnett reports in his ThePhuketInsider. com blog that according to a story in the Economic Times of India, that country’s largest real estate company, DLF, is selling the luxury chain at a total value of US$360 million, which includes US$70 million in debt, for a net figure of US$290 million. “Peak Resorts is controlled by American Omar Amanat who is the

entrepreneur being online trading enterprise Tradescape. He is also a significant investor in the Hollywood entertainment industry,” Mr Barnett reports. The sale is the latest chapter is a tortuous story that began in 1988 when Mr Zecha opened Amanpuri in Phuket, at a cost of US$4 million. Its success led to more Amans. Four years later, lacking the finance for expansion, Mr Zecha sold a controlling interest in the chain to a hotelier friend, Clement Vaturi. This worked until a legal battle resulted in Mr Vaturi’s share in the company coming under the control of US real estate investment fund Colony Capital.

Relations turned sour and Mr Zecha eventually resigned from Aman in 1998, though he still held a substantial interest in the company. In 2000, the controlling shares were sold once again to Lee Hing Development of Phuket, and Mr Zecha returned as CEO and Chairman of the company he had founded. Seven years later he announced an agreement with DLF to form a partnership to acquire a controlling interest in Aman Resorts. That deal was estimated at US$400 million, with debt of around US$150 million, for a net of US$250 million. Now DLF is out and Mr Zecha is, it appears, yet again in the driving seat.

The Amanpuri on Pansea Beach. Photo: Boydiz

Rawai man killed in high-speed bike crash Tourist dies in room

Another smash: The wrecked superbike of British expat Bronson Victor Dickerson. He escaped with a broken wrist.

A 34 -YEA R- OLD M AN from Rawai died instantly when he crashed his motorbike at high speed just after midnight on Friday (February 7), on the same bend where a British tourist crashed and died last year. Witnesses said they saw Wichian Thanarak riding his Honda Wave fast near Wat Ladthiwanaram (Wat Tai) on Chaofa East Rd, north of Chalong Circle at about half past midnight. The bike left the road on the bend in front of the wat and Mr Wichian hit a post head-first. He was not wearing a helmet. Phuket Ruamjai Rescue

Foundation volunteers took his body to Vachira Phuket Hospital to await collection by relatives. This is the second life the bend has claimed since April last year. On the 22nd of that month Briton Paul Ancell, also travelling at speed in the early hours, crashed his rented superbike there and died at the scene. Meanwhile, police are investigating a crash between two motorbikes at the Thai Watsadu U-turn on Thepkrassattree Rd, just north of the Heroines Monument, at 11:30pm on February 6. Called to the scene, police found a badly damaged green

Kawasaki superbike owned by British expat Bronson Victor Dickerson, 37, and a damaged Honda Wave owned by Noppadon Saiwipak, 31. Mr Dickerson suffered multiple scratches and bruises, and a broken left wrist, while Mr Noppadon had a deep wound in his right ankle. After first aid, Mr Dickerson was taken to Bangkok Hospital and Mr Noppadon to Vachira Phuket Hospital. Police said witnesses told them that Mr Dickerson was travelling south at speed when Mr Noppadon, travelling north, made a U-turn at Thai Watsadu. Officers are collecting more evidence in an attempt to establish who was at fault. Eakkapop Thongtub

A NORWEGIAN TOURist was found dead in his rented apartment in Patong on Saturday (February 8) by a maid who checked his room after he failed to come down for breakfast in his apartment building. Tore Gulaker, 62, from Oslo, was found lying on his bed with an oxygen mask on his face. Kusondharm Phuket Foundation staff said they believed he had been dead for about 12 hours. His body was taken to Patong Hospital for autopsy. Foul play is not suspected. Eakkapop Thongtub

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Police wind up meth dealing gang of four P

huket anti-narcotics police on Thursday (February 6) rolled up a gang of four drug dealers and seized 3,648 methamphetamine (ya ba) pills and 70.58 grams of crystal methamphetamine (ya ice). Following a tip-off that Supawadi “Na” Sangwong, 37, of Pa Khlok had become a major vendor of meth, undercover police were assigned by Pol Maj Ong’ard Pewroengnon to buy 20 grammes of ya ice from her. After a price of B44,000 had been agreed, Supawadi assigned her boyfriend, Nawin “Keem” Kareem, 28, to organise delivery of the drugs and collection of the money. At the appointed time, Nawin called to say that a messenger would be meet the buyers at a Family Mart convenience store in Koh Kaew to deliver the drugs and take payment. Police grabbed the messenger, 18-year-old Thammarat “Oma” Thinkohyao, searched him and came up with a bag of ya ice and 10 ya ba pills. During questioning he admitted that he was the one hired by Nawin to make the delivery. Police then set up an ambush in

The gang, in order of arrest, from left: Thammarat, Supawadi and Nawin, and Nared. the car park of the Mission Hospital where Thammarat was due to meet Nawin to hand over the money received from the undercover police. Everything went smoothly, with officers moving in to arrest Nawin as soon as the money was in his hands. They then took him to his home in Damrong Rd. There they found Supawadi asleep, and more narcotics

on top of the fridge and on a table next to the couple’s TV. They also found a set of digital scales, a book listing drug buyers and a .45-calibre automatic pistol, all of which they seized, along with a cell phone and a motorcycle. At the police station, under questioning, Supawadi and Nawin admitted that that there were more drugs stashed with Nared “Lift”

GIFT GIVING Class Act Media Managing Director Simon Samaan, third from left,

accepts a gift basket from Phanuphong ‘Daniel’ Limbuprasertkul of the Thai-Nepali Association of Phuket, fourth from left, at the company offices on February 5.

@thephuketnews

Dudpayak, 18, at his rented room in Rassada. Once again they set up an ambush, Supawadi called Nared and told him to bring the drugs to the 7-Eleven store close to his room. Police lay in wait and grabbed Nared as he handed over the drugs. All four were charged with possession of Category 1 narcotics with intent to sell. Eakkapop Thongtub

PHUKET NEWS

Blood donation drive kicks off THE PHUKET BLOOD CENTRE, which recently admitted it had run out of all blood types, launched a drive for donations on Tuesday (February 11). The schedule for donations is as follows: February 17, 10.00-16.00, Robinson Ocean Phuket Shopping Mall. February 18, 10.00-14.00 at Satree Phuket School, Thungka Rd, Phuket Town. February 19, 10.00-15.00 at Honda Showroom, Chaofa West Rd. February 20, 13.00-16.00 at Regent Phuket Cape Panwa Resort. February 21, 13.00-16.00 at Mercure Phuket Deevana, Patong. February 24, 10.00-15.00 at Phuket Provincial Hospital, Outpatients Dept, Anuphas Phuketkarn Rd, Phuket Town. February 25, 10.00-15.00 at Cherng Talay OrBorTor offices. February 26, 13.00-16.00 hrs at Patong Hospital and Kalima Resort & Spa. February 27, 12.00-18.00 hrs at Central Festival Phuket. Donors should weigh at least 45kg, and be between 17 and 60 years old. They must be healthy, without sexually transmissible diseases, nor taking medication or drugs of any kind. Women currently having their time of the month or who are pregnant or have delivered a baby or miscarried in the past six months are ineligible to donate. Donors are advised to get at least six hours’ sleep the night before giving blood.

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JODY HOUTON

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

20 divers rescued as boat sinks in Andaman Sea German dies in Phuket of suspected Viagra overdose Phuket man dies in high-speed bike crash G e r man ‘ fl y ing boat’ pilot dies in Phuket crash Angr y boatmen block Chalong Pier Car flips after crash on main Phuket highway Long-time Phuket expat and book seller dies Norwegian tourist found dead in Phuket apartment Gun n’ roses found in abandoned Phuket cop chase car Raid on beauty salon uncovers dope, weapons

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

That sinking feeling

he news that three dive boats have sunk in the past fortnight– fortunately with no one injured or killed – must be alarming news for all in the dive industry. It certainly raises many questions about the safety standards of such vessels. The first incident was on January 29, when the Ranongbased dive boat Magic Carpet sank near Koh Tachai after its hull was holed. All on board jumped for their lives and were rescued as the boat sank swiftly under them. Then last Sunday (February 9), the MV Blue Star, belonging to Chalong Sea Sports, caught fire and sank in Burmese waters while on a week-long dive trip. All 20 or so people on board were rescued by a passing fishing boat. The latest incident to be

reported to The Phuket News concerns a dive boat that sank on February 1. Fifteen French tourists were rescued after the Bunmee I they were on caught fire and sank around 60km southwest of Koh Lanta. But these are only three that The Phuket News knows about, based on reports from tourists or witnesses. No dive company has contacted the press to say, “Hey, my boat sank” – why would they? The dive industry is highly competitive and a huge driver in the Phuket tourism economy. It’s anyone’s guess how many other boats have sunk in recent weeks or months. Is it simply bad luck that three sank in a fortnight, or are there incidents happening regularly that no one is being told about? It’s also hard for officials to carry out an investigation

when a boat is at the bottom of the ocean. Any boat that sinks with tourists on board, no matter which company it belongs to, will have a negative impact on Phuket’s tourism image. For every liveaboard or tour boat that sinks, there are 20 – or 200 – tourists who go back to their home country and recount their terrifying ordeal to anyone who will listen, including the local press. The dive industry needs to get together to find out why these boats are sinking and what can be done about it. Do there need to be more, or better enforced, safety regulations? If nothing happens it’s only a matter of time before a mass casualty happens on board a sinking or burning boat, which would have far reaching consequences for the industry.

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Biking behaviour I read with interest your article in the latest edition of The Phuket News about motorcycle accidents. I have just returned from a nine day holiday in Karon, and l am surprised by your story that a conference was held to discuss the possibility of reducing the number of motorcycle accidents. My observations were not only of expats but also many locals riding motorcycles without a helmet, three people on a motorcycle, and in some cases, motorcycles carrying young children under 5 without a helmet. I also observed some motorcycles with faulty tail lights or no headlights at all, not to mention many speeding motorcycles through and around Karon Beach. During this time l did not observe a single police officer pulling over a motorcycle rider without a helmet! Simple solutions for Phuket that work well in Australia would be: more police presence on Phuket’s roads; impounding speeding motorcycles for 48

hours; impounding motorcycles of those not wearing helmets for 48 hours with a fine, which they pay on return with a helmet to collect their motorcycle. I would have loved to rent a scooter whilst in Phuket (I have 28 years trail bike riding experience) but l felt it was not safe to do so. But on a positive note, I totally enjoyed my time in Phuket, with great accommodation, great food, great shopping, excellent weather and very friendly people. Gary Turner, Melbourne

Krabi vs Phuket [Re. Phuket Poll: Is Krabi becoming a rival for tourists?] Err, Krabi has always been a rival, and a direct [Malaysia Airlines] flight from Kuala Lumpur really isn’t going to make much difference. If anything, it could encourage more tourists on day trips and short breaks to Phuket. Geoffphuket Unless you travel by boat to an island somewhere, Krabi or Ao

Nang particularly is downright boring. One long stretch of road and a non-beach. However, there are loads of Indian vendors and touts, food, and clothing made to order just like Phuket so I suppose Phuket has that in common with Krabi. But maybe I haven’t seen it all? Seht1912 I have been to Krabi with my car once and promised that I would never go again because the road is too narrow, the ferries are very old, and there is nothing to do. Milan Tourists don’t want bumper to bumper traffic, which takes you hours to go 5 km; death on every street; dealers offering kids drugs while they’re with their parents (a personal experience this December); endangered animal shows parading in and through bars and clubs every night; hassle with jet-ski operators; parasailing with near death experiences; and a traffic system that’s almost gridlock from sunrise

to 2am. So maybe it’d be a refreshing change sending them to Krabi. I pray it does not get like Phuket. Andy

Winter woe [Re. Phuket: Sochi Winter Olympics open] Unfortunately there is no satellite or cable coverage of the Olympics here in Thailand. It appears no one has paid the licensing fees for the biggest sporting event in the world. Amazing. John

What water? [Re. Plenty of water this year, says Phuket water boss] We have not received any water through the pipe system since November, and have had to purchase water delivered by truck daily to fill our tanks and service our guests. The water delivery system in Kathu is a joke and almost non-existent. vegasd8

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THAILAND NEWS 11

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Thai rice woes rebound on crisis-hit government Aidan Jones

ngry farmers, a rice mountain and a slew of corruption allegations – a flagship policy that helped propel Thailand’s premier to power now threatens to boomerang on her embattled government. Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra is struggling to steer the Southeast Asian nation through a policy vacuum created by a chaotic general election earlier this month. A controversial rice subsidy scheme, which paid farmers up to 50 per cent above market rates, helped her sweep to power in 2011 but now appears to be unravelling. Critics say the programme has incubated massive corruption, drained the public finances, dislodged the kingdom as the world’s top rice exporter and created an estimated 18 million-tonne stockpile of the grain. Hundreds of farmers have protested recently in Bangkok

Embattled PM Shinawatra. Photo: Gerd Seidel (Rob Irgendwer) to demand payment after the government ran short of cash to buy their pledged crops late last year, adding to pressure on Yingluck, who has faced months of opposition rallies. The cabinet earmarked nearly US$22 million (B719 million) Tuesday for about 3,900 farmers but, in a sign of the policy constraints it faces,

the payments must be approved by the Election Commission. An estimated one million farmers nationwide are owed money, according to the Thailand Development Research Institute, which says the government may need to find US$3.6 billion (B118 billion) to catch up with payments. Thailand sought to recoup

Paradorn: We will arrest Suthep P OL IC E W I L L A R R E ST A N T I government protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban as soon as an opportunity arises, National Security Council secretary-general Paradorn Pattanatabut said on Tuesday. “Authorities are closely monitoring Mr Suthep but his arrest will depend on the circumstances and environment,” Lt Gen Paradorn told reporters. Asked about the arrest of People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) core member Sonthiyan Chuenruthainaitham, he said the emergency decree allows police to detain him for seven days. If the investigation has not been completed police can keep him in custody for seven more days at a time, with court approval, but he cannot be detained for more than 30 days. On Monday, police arrested Mr Sonthiyan while he was eating lunch at Central department store in Lat Phrao. He and 18 other PDRC leaders are wanted under arrest warrants for violating the emergency decree in connection with the mass protests demanding the resignation of caretaker Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and her government. When reporters asked whether the government will announce the names of capitalists allegedly behind the funding of the protests, he said an investigation had been completed. The information was with Department of Special Investigation (DSI) director-general Tarit Pengdith, he said. On the private sector’s call for the government to lift the state of emergency, @thephuketnews

Protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban. due to the detrimental effect that it is having on the overall economy, he said the government will do so when the situation eases, but the decree is necessary at this time. “Security agencies are concerned that the protesting rice farmers will team up with the PDRC protesters, but I believe that the farmers can see their motive is quite different from the PDRC’s,” Lt Gen Paradorn said. Bangkok Post

the money paid to farmers by hoarding rice to drive up prices on world markets, but it was unable to find buyers after rival producers such as India and Vietnam unexpectedly boosted their shipments. The Thai Rice Exporters Association forecasts the kingdom will sell 7.5 million tonnes overseas this year, down more than 30 per cent compared with 2011. “The whole Thai rice industry fell apart and the reputation it had enjoyed in the world market as a reliable supplier of good quality rice is gone,” said TDRI’s Ammar Siamwalla. The government has not revealed the exact annual cost of the scheme, but the TDRI says estimates range from US$4.6 billion to US$6 billion – roughly six-eight per cent of the annual budget. The ruling Puea Thai party denies the government has run out of money and has defended the scheme as an effort to lift rural Thais out of poverty. Yingluck blames opposition demonstrators – who disrupted

the February 2 election – for leaving her caretaker administration with limited power to raise funds. Until voting is held in dozens of protest-hit constituencies, there are not enough MPs to appoint a new government even if Yingluck’s party wins. “We are trying to solve the problem as best we can... but the banks will not approve loans,” Yingluck told reporters on Tuesday. “The government’s financial and monetary status is good.” A deal to sell one million tonnes of stockpiled grain to a Chinese state firm recently collapsed after a Thai anticorruption panel announced graft charges against several government officials linked to the scheme. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has launched a probe into possible negligence of duty by Yingluck in connection with the flagship policy – a move that could potentially result in her impeachment. AFP

IN BRIEF BANGKOK

Re-runs for blocked elections planned for April Thailand will hold election re-runs in April in constituencies where voting was obstructed by opposition protesters earlier this month, poll officials announced on Tuesday. Millions were denied the opportunity to cast ballots, with blockades by demonstrators seeking to prevent the re-election of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra causing the closure of some 10 per cent of polling stations. AFP

TRANG

Tying the knot at 15m deep Thirty-two couples, including five foreigners, tied the knot at 15 metres deep near Koh Kradan in Sikao district, Trang province, on Tuesday. The foreign couples were from France, England, the Netherlands, the United Arab Emirates and China. The 18th Trang underwater wedding ceremony, which offers bridal packages costing B35,000 to B40,000, ran until February 12. Bangkok Post

12 ASIA NEWS

IN BRIEF JAPAN

PM as unpopular as Kim Jong-Un With Seoul-Tokyo relations at their lowest ebb for years, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is as unpopular with South Koreans as North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, a new survey said Wednesday. Following Abe’s visit to a controversial war shrine in December, his already low favorability rating in South Korea declined to 1.0 on a 10-point scale, according to the poll carried out by the Asan Institute think-tank in Seoul said.

TAIWAN

Taiwan voters have final say on China

The first government-to-government meeting between Beijing and Taipei since the brutal civil war ended in 1949 highlights China’s dream of reunification – but analysts say Taiwanese voters will ultimately set the agenda, rather than the Communist Party. Tuesday’s talks in Nanjing brought together the top officials from both sides overseeing relations.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Pakistan’s child brides married off for ‘honour’ Khurram Shahzad

ne sunny afternoon as she skipped home from school, Saneeda was accosted by her estranged father, who wanted to marry her to a man she’d never met to settle a debt of “honour”. She was five years old. A few months earlier, Saneeda’s father Ali Ahmed had eloped with a girl from another valley. To avoid violent revenge from her family, he promised to give them his daughter and niece Sapna in marriage. Offering young girls as brides in compensation to settle disputes persists in many areas of deeply conservative Pakistan. In Saneeda’s home district of Swat, in the country’s northwest, the practice is known as “swara”. Government data show that it is on the rise in Swat, four years after an army operation ended the Taliban’s brutal twoyear rule in the scenic valley once known as the “Switzer-

A girl studying at a temporary school in Swat, Pakistan. Photo: Kashif Mardani land of Pakistan”. Nine cases were registered in the area in 2013, up from just one in 2012. Rights groups say the true number is much higher. “My father stopped me in the street and told me that he has given me in swara and soon will hand me over to a man who will be my husband,” Saneeda, wearing a golden shawl with red and purple embroidery, told AFP, her cheeks reddening in

embarrassment. Her mother dismissed it at first, but the arrangement had been ordered by a jirga, a traditional tribal gathering, and the gravity of the situation soon became clear. “We initially thought they can’t take this girl away but then they increased pressure with every passing day to give her in swara,” Fazal Ahad, Saneeda’s maternal uncle,

told AFP. Eventually Saneeda’s family got a court order protecting her. Police arrested her father and the jirga members who had decided to give her in swara. A lucky escape, but Saneed, now seven, still faces discrimination and mockery. “Whenever I go to school, children taunt me and tell me that I have been given in swara and will be married to a man,”

she said. Saneeda was unsual in that her family challenged the jirga’s ruling. In Pakistan’s patriarchal society, where family reputation is paramount, airing the “dirty laundry” in public in this way is very rare. “There are many other cases of swara, but people in our area don’t go to police and court and don’t highlight such cases. We don’t take matters of our women to the court – the victimised girls have to bear it all,” said Ahad. The authorities do not keep detailed data on swara, but Samar Minallah, an activist who made an acclaimed documentary on the practice, said she had identified at least 132 cases around Pakistan in 2012. The other girl given by Saneeda’s father, 16-year-old Sapna, had to abide by the jirga ruling and settled with the husband they chose for her. The custom and the code of silence that surrounds it is so strictly followed that AFP was unable to reach her to speak about her experience. AFP

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WORLD NEWS 13

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Swiss to curb EU migrants, Brussels reviews relations S

witzerland voted Sunday to impose curbs on European Union immigrants, in a nail-bitingly close referendum that sparked warnings from Brussels that it would review EU ties with the Alpine country. Final results of the nailbitingly close plebiscite showed 50.3 per cent of voters backed the “Stop Mass Immigration” plan pushed by Swiss rightwing populists. The fall-out from the result could sink a raft of deals with the EU, including on the economic front. Switzerland is ringed by EU member countries and does the bulk of its trade with the 28-nation bloc, but has remained steadfast about not becoming a member. The European Commission said it would assess EU ties with Switzerland, raising the prospect of restricted trade or other backlash. “The EU will examine the implications of this initiative on EU-Swiss relations as a whole,” it said a statement. Wolfgang Schaeuble, fi-

At the 2007 National Refugee Day demonstration in Berne, Switzerland. Photo: Béka nance minister of Germany, Switzerland’s top trade partner, said the result “is going to create plenty of problems for Switzerland in a host of areas”. But he said it was also a warning sign of European globalisation fears. Swiss Foreign Minister Di-

dier Burkhalter said he planned to tour European capitals to explain the vote and seek a solution, starting with Berlin. “The people are sovereign, and a healthy system doesn’t force the public to follow political authorities with outsized powers,” Burkhalter said.

Ukraine’s second ‘revolution’ still looking for its colour STANDING ON THE TOP FLOOR OF the giant Ukraine Hotel on the capital’s Independence Square, guests may be forgiven in thinking that the crisis currently rocking the country is yellow and blue, the national colour. But nine years after the Orange Revolution rocked Ukraine in the autumn of 2004, propelling pro-Western forces to power, the latest crisis pitting pro-EU protesters against President Viktor Yanukovych has yet to identify itself with a colour in that same way.

@thephuketnews

“We haven’t found it yet,” said Svetlana, lost in her thoughts Sunday as she took part in the tenth major protest to rock Ukraine since November, when Yanukovych ditched a key EU trade and political pact in favour of closer ties with Moscow, sparking angry demonstrations by pro-EU parts of the population. “Yellow and blue? Those are the colours of Ukraine, we’re fond of them, but the others [authorities] use them too ... I would say grey, because this revolution is lasting so long, and we don’t know how it will end anymore.” AFP

The Swiss government and a broad swathe of economic lobby groups fearing the EU fall-out had battled the immigration curb plan. But under Switzerland’s system of direct democracy, voters have the last word on a huge range of issues.

The French-language newspaper Le Temps noted how French-speaking areas and larger cities voted against the immigration curbs, while German-speaking and rural areas generally voted for them. Hundreds of people came out to demonstrate against the referendum result in the capital Bern and in the city of Lucerne. “We are ashamed,” shouted protesters in Bern. The Swiss government said it would examine over coming weeks how to “recast relations” with the EU, but stressed that current immigration rules would remain in place until the new ones were drawn up. The vote obliges the government to renegotiate within three years a 2007 deal struck with Brussels that gave most EU citizens free access to the Swiss labour market. It was one of a series of accords reached in 1999 after five years of talks that were seen as a way for Switzerland and the EU to enjoy access to each other’s markets without Switzerland having to opt for full EU membership. AFP

IN BRIEF MEXICO

Canadian couple murdered in their home in Mexico An elderly Canadian couple were beaten and knifed to death when their home in the western Mexican state of Jalisco was raided by thieves, a local official said Sunday. Ernesto Robles, chief of police in the municipality of Chapala, identified the victims as a 72-year-old woman and an 84-year-old man, both from the Canadian province of Ontario. No names were released.

UNITED STATES

New York fashion scene celebrates wrap dress 40th Designer Diane von Furstenberg celebrated Sunday 40 years of her phenomenally successful wrap dress, which has been copied across the planet and revolutionised women’s fashion. V-necked, feminine and easy to wear, uncrushable in silk jersey and figure flattering for all, the dress made the Belgian-born US designer her fortune and her name.

14 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Are Russians really rude? The first in a new series on doing business with Russians in Phuket Anton Makrov Understanding the Russians

E Ludovic Gallerne.

New sales boss for Banyan, Angsana BANYAN TREE PHUKET and Angsana Laguna Phuket have a new Area Director of Sales and Marketing, Ludovic Gallerne from France, who will lead the 42 sales staff of both, reporting to the two GMs. Born and raised in France, Mr Gallerne has more than 18 years’ experience with leading luxury hotels. Before moving to Banyan Tree Group, he was Director of Sales & Marketing at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa and Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa.

very coin has its reverse and the growing number of Russians coming to Phuket is no exception. On the one hand, thousands of tourists come with millions of baht to spend and growing tourist arrivals are the main reason for Phuket’s economic prosperity. On the other hand, alongside the tourists come hundreds of Russian businesspeople eager to get their slice of this pie. And, as any long-time Phuket resident may tell you, this can sometimes lead to problems. In the spirit of improving international relations, this monthly column will examine and try to understand what Russians themselves call “the mysterious Russian soul”. The most common question about Russians is, “Why are they so rude?” This widespread opinion actually sounds a bit offensive to Russians. Yes, we can be arrogant or rude, but no more than people from any other country. Each nation has good and bad people, pleasant and

Spot the smiles: The Moscow Metro in rush hour. Photo: Arthur Gumenyuk, realias. livejournal.com rude, intelligent and ignorant. But Russians are stereotyped as being rude 24/7. One explanation lies in linguistics. Russian methods of communicating, both verbal and non-verbal, are quite different from those of the Europeans and Thais. The Russian attitude toward smiling is No 1 on the list of differences. Russian philologist Iosif Sternin defines this as the “routine absence of smile”. While Thais and Westerners view the smile as a normal facial expression, Russians treat it as something special. When you live in Russia you

need a strong reason to raise the ends of your lips. A constant smile is viewed either as something artificial and insincere, or as a sign of a simple mind. Numerous Russian proverbs refer to laughing for no reason as an attribute of a fool or as a sign of some sinister intent. The same applies to standard modes of politeness such as “How are you?” and other courteous (but basically meaningless) questions. A Russian reserves such questions for his closest friends, not for strangers. When you ask Americans,

“How are you?” they are always either “great” or “fine” and only a recent earthquake in their home town or similarscale disaster can make them answer differently. But Russians never say they are “great” or “fine” because, to them, this would sound like boasting. Normally the lack of smiles and polite questions is accompanied by a specific manner of speaking. Russian is one the most melodic languages in the world, though one would hardly believe it listening to Russians for the first time. The reason

lies within the field of linguopsychology. Russians are generally afraid of looking simpleminded, naïve or childish, which would make them an easy target for a cheat. So a Russian man will do his best to emphasise his masculinity. He will use a deep, loud voice, he will frown, he will glare – all the attributes of the alpha male that many Russian men learn in childhood. To some extent this can also be apply with the women. This behavior is more a defence mechanism than intentional rudeness. The soft inside of a Russian’s soul is reserved for those closest to him or her. The only solution for a Westerner or Thai planning to do business with Russians is to accept all these defence mechanisms as part of the Russian character and to wait for the time when they let you into their inner circle. Actually, if you are openminded enough, that won’t take long. Anton Makrov is Managing Editor of The Phuket News’ Russian-language sister paper, Novosti Phuketa

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

BUSINESS NEWS 15

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Real Estate Show ‘is a big success’ T Class Act Media’s Broadcast Manager Tim Newton takes the con in the SilkAir 737-800 flight simulator.

SilkAir marks quarter century with new fleet SILKAIR, THE REGIONAL wing of Singapore Airlines, celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. Marking its anniversary celebrations, the airline is this month taking delivery of the first aircraft in its new fleet of 54 Boeing 737s. A total of eight aircraft are expected this year, with the remainder to be delivered by the end of the decade. This delivery, the airline says, will enable it “to maintain a young and modern fleet, and cater for the airline’s continued network expansion plans by significantly growing its existing fleet”.

To mark its silver anniversary, SilkAir has been rolling out a number of surprises and celebrations. Last month it flew selected travel agents and media, including The Phuket News, to Singapore to “virtually deliver the first SilkAir Boeing 737-800” in the airline’s flight training simulator. Passengers will also be rewarded with deals to Singapore and beyond on SilkAir and Singapore Airlines. The airline’s Chief Executive, Leslie Thng, said, “It is a tremendously exciting time for the airline … I would like to pay a special tribute to our

1,500 employees who have been with us on our incredible 25 year journey. Without their unwavering support, dedication and heart, we would not be here today. “Our new Boeing fleet will enable us to put the passenger at the centre of our focus, with the objective of delivering a higher level of quality and experience. “Despite aggressive competition, we have maintained a strong foothold in the market as a full-service regional carrier and become known for offering access to unique destinations, with genuine and thoughtful service.”

Privé 49 condos launched PHUKET-BASED DEVELopers The Onella Co have become the latest to launch a condominium project close to Central Festival. Last Friday (February 7) the company opened its Privé 49 showroom, next to Makro, to property figures and the media. The showroom includes a show apartment. Privé 49 is described as “a low-density development that promises privacy and affordable exclusive appeal”. The seven-floor building

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Cutaway view of one of the Privé 49 apartments. will have 49 fully furnished single-bedroom apartments of about 33 sqm, ranging in price from B2.28 million to

B2.3 million. Apart from the bedroom, each will have a living room/dining area and an ensuite bathroom.

he week-long annual Phuket Real Estate Show, which ended on Wednesday (February 12) at Central Festival, was accounted a success by exhibitors. Chutipabha “Maggie” Sukhpipat, senior sales executive for the nearby Centrio Condominium, said, “There’s more foot traffic compared with the last event [in November]. “I think it’s because of the politics [of Thailand] and the timing of holidays. This event is after the Chinese New Year and New Year’s Eve, so both foreigners and Thais have more time and money to buy.” Lisa Keenan, Sales Manager of Zcape II Condo, close to Laguna Phuket, found things a little quiet on the opening day but overall was pleased. “It’s quite quiet now because it is after Chinese New Year, so people have spent their money on everything else. “We’ll have to wait and see what the rest of the week brings.” She said she is a believer in the value of property shows, however: “In the past about 10 per cent of our units have been

Exhibitors generally agreed that shows like the one at Central Festival result in sales. sold at events like this. People seem interested but there are so many projects here and our project is quite new.” Macharee “Care” Putkaew of Phumundra: The Condo, agreed. “For our projects, we usually get customers who are looking to buy houses, but we expect about 40 sales to come from events like this. “We are selling units in two projects and have sold 70 per cent already before this event.” Phuket Governor Mr Maitri Inthusut officially opened the event and took a tour of the

booths with Thanusak Pungdet, president of the Phuket Real Estate Association, which organised the exhibition. As well as promotions at many of the booths, there were daily prize giveaways for lucky showgoers, including all-expenses-paid trips with free international flights and hotel stays. Entertainment included swimwear modelling around the swimming pool installed for the event by JD Pools. The exhibition was supported by Class Act Media.

16 WEIRD NEWS

THE BIG LIST Major oops... Olga Graf’s gaff (see below right) is only the latest in a long line of wardrobe malfunctions in sports – but the unfortunate Russian is only carrying on a long tradition.

Janet Jackson: Also known as ‘nipplegate,’ this was the event that coined the term ‘wardrobe malfunction.’ In front of 143.6 million viewers on live television, Janet Jackson – with the help of Justin Timberlake – exposed her breast in a dance routine during the halftime show of the Super Bowl, the biggest sporting event in the United States. Despite the fact that both Timberlake and Jackson deny it was staged, government officials fined broadcaster CBS a record US$550,000 (B18 million) for the incident. Tommy Kelly: Weighing 147 kg and standing 1.98 m, Tommy Kelly is not Janet Jackson – not even close. However, he and the pop star do have one thing in common and that is a major wardrobe malfunction during an American football game. During a clash against the Denver Broncos in 2009, Kelly – a defender – made an impressive stop. The problem? He lost his pants during the play and showed the entire world his gameday underwear. The whole thing was caught on live television, with commentators cracking jokes about the situation. With the amount of tackling involved, how does this not happen more often? Gillian Cooke: During a race in Switzerland in 2010, British Olympian bobsledder Gillian Cooke and a teammate were ready to run out on the ice and get their trial started. One last stretch was in order, and that’s when her Lycra spandex suit was torn along her bum on live television. “Gillian Cooke is going to need a new race suit after the weekend... going to be a little chilly there,” said the announcer during the broadcast. Ever the pro, the duo forged on and finished seventh, their best result of the season at that point. Diego Forlan: Back in 2002, Uruguayan forward Diego Forlan scored one of his few goals for Manchester United – a shot from outside the box that won the match against Southampton. He took his shirt off in celebration, but could not get it back on once the match resumed. For nearly one minute, Forland was seen running around the pitch shirtless, looking as though he was holding back his laughter. “I wanted to do it [put my shirt back on] but I had to keep on playing and couldn’t get it on,” he said afterward. Perhaps this is why they banned this sort of celebration? Ricky Berens: In 2009, Olympic swimmer Ricky Berens was racing in a qualifier during the World Swimming Championships in Rome. Before stepping onto the starting block, the American leaned down for one final stretch when his spandex suit tore along the side of his bum. Teammate Cullen Jones urged Berens to forget about the gaping hole and swim – which he did and qualified for the finals. He eventually won the 4x100m relay freestyle that year. There must be something about rear-end exposure that makes athletes perform better. “I kind of freaked out for just a second,” Berens said after, “[but] I felt like I was putting on a good show.”

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Penguins given ‘happy pills’ in soaking Britain A fter weeks of rain and wind in England, miserable penguins at a marine centre are being fed anti-depressants to cheer them up. The 12 Humboldt penguins at the Sealife Centre in Scarborough, northeast England, were showing signs of stress as they shivered through one of the wettest winters on record. Although the penguins are accustomed to cold weather in their natural habitat of Peru and Chile, the constant rain has come as a shock to them. Keepers noticed they were tending to huddle together for warmth rather than plunging into the water. So it was decided to slip pills into the fish they are fed on a daily basis. “They are just not used to this type of constant, prolonged bad weather that we are having,” a spokeswoman for the centre told AFP. “They are under treatment

Humboldt penguins like these were freezing in the UK. for stress and we hope the tablets will have a calming effect on them.” Lyndsey Crawford, the centre’s display curator, explained that the pills were designed to stimulate normal behaviour in the penguins. “Hopefully their instincts will kick in and they will realise they are not in any danger,” she said.

The penguins have no idea that they are taking pills and suffer no discomfort as a result. “They literally don’t know anything about it. It’s a tiny tablet that fits into the gill of the fish. It doesn’t taste awful,” she said. The penguins were also seized by anxiety three years ago when a trespasser broke into their enclosure. The ex-

perience left the animals so frightened that they failed to produce eggs for some time. Humboldt penguins are threatened with extinction in Peru and Chile due to a range of factors including climate change, the over-fishing of the species that they feed on and problems with becoming entangled in fishing nets. Prime Minister David Cameron visited flood-hit areas of Somerset on Friday following criticism of his government’s handling of a crisis that has left swathes of the country under water. Royal Marines helped to evacuate the residents of 140 homes in the Somerset village of Moorland after floodwaters rose rapidly overnight. The rainy winter in England has set records tumbling, being the wettest combined period for December and January since 1876-1877 and the second wettest since 1766, the Met Office has said. AFP

HK hotel brews storm in a teacup with promotion for men HONG KONG’S MANDArin Oriental hotel stirred up ridicule on Friday with an after noon-tea promotion for men based on pork pies and beef rather than dainty snacks “normally preserved for women”. The five-star hotel denied that its marketing campaign for the “Gentlemen’s Power Snack” and “Gentlemen’s Power Afternoon Tea” was sexist, but a women’s rights group heaped scorn on the language used in a press release. “The afternoon-tea ritual with delicate sandwiches and warm scones is one that is normally preserved for women,” the Mandarin’s release said. From March, however, “distinguished men will be able to meet and relax, or secure business deals over two different afternoon teas...which have been created especially for them”, it said. “It is quite silly, as a marketing strategy, to single out certain food and beverage outlets and meals as more suitable to one sex than the other,” Annie Chan, chairwoman of the Association for the Advancement of Feminism, told AFP. She called the connection drawn between scones and women as “laugh-out-loud funny”. “To market bars, roast beef and pork pies as more suited to men is just as ridiculous.”

MOHK is selling porkies. The afternoon tea for gentlemen includes pies, Yorkshire puddings and cigar-shaped chocolates, accompanied by beer or whisky and served in “masculine” settings featuring “leather booths and dark-wood furniture”, the hotel statement said. “There’s absolutely no way that we’re trying to alienate any group to any area within the hotel,” Mandarin Oriental director of communications Nina Colls told AFP. “It was created with men in mind [but] both male and female can most certainly enjoy the afternoon tea,” she said. The Mandarin Oriental, built in 1963 when Hong Kong was a British colony, is located in the heart of the city’s financial district, near the Victoria Harbour. Its amenities include a traditional men’s barber and the Captain’s Bar, a well-known haunt of power-lunching businessmen. AFP

Olga Graf with her kit on. Photo: Sasha Krotov

Russian skater shows more than delight after bronze RUSSIAN SPEED SKATer Olga Graf showed off more than she wanted after a bronze medal-winning performance in the Olympic Games 3,000 metres, ripping down the zip of her skin suit in delight. Graf, who won Russia’s first medal of the Sochi Games, raised her arms aloft in triumph after crossing the finishing line and then pulled her zip down to her waist. The tight skin suit burst open to reveal she had no underwear. Graf put her hand to her mouth in embarrassment and rapidly

zipped back up, but keeping her smile. “Yes it is true. There was nothing underneath,” she was quoted as saying by the Sovietsky Sport daily. “We have great suits, they make the body feel light and as a result I wear nothing under them. When I finished the race I forgot about this.” “And I thought, what a nightmare! And soon it will be all over YouTube. But in fact, nothing bad will come of it. “In the end, I did not show that much,” she mused. AFP thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Expat teacher sets new standard

WINNING SPIRIT Inspiring athlete Michele Hossack > page 3

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Into the business of relationship rescue

2 ART

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 14,2014 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 14,

Emerging from the shade Jody Houton editor3@classactmedia.co.th

My relationship with my parents has never been good, I stopped living with my parents when I was around seven years-old, when I started going to state-funded boarding schools

Luxsana ‘Nok’ Charernsri’s work varies, from abstract to realism.

uxsana ‘Nok’ Charernsri’s childhood was the polar opposite to those of the children that she currently teaches at the Phuket International Academy Day School (PIADS), in Thalang. Born in Singburi province, Nok studied art at Chiang Mai University, but actually getting to that point – where she was studying and doing what she is passionate about – she tells The Phuket News, was rather difficult and problematic. “My relationship with my parents has never been good,” Nok says matter-of-factly, “I stopped living with my parents when I was around seven years-old, when I started going to state-funded boarding schools.” It wasn’t until Nok moved to her second school, when she was around 11 years old, that she discovered art and quickly found that she had a talent. “In my first art class, I knew straight away that this is what I wanted to do. I actually won the first competition I entered – it was a picture of the Queen Mother.” From then on, she sought solace in art, at least privately, as despite her parents knowing that she was exceptionally talented, pursuing the creative arts was never really an option. “My dad actually wanted me to be an accountant, and forbade me from studying art, or enrolling at university.” When Nok was old enough, however, she decided to enrol anyway, and when the start of the first term came around and her parents ultimately found out, there were ‘problems.’ Nok, now in her 30s, says that relations between her and her parents are better now – helped greatly, she says, when she was awarded a scholarship by the Ministry of Culture (MOC) to put on an exhibition in Bangkok. The Ministry also paid for Nok to visit the US, on a short trip to discover new art techniques and paint some ‘great American landscapes’. Nok’s work is wide and varied, from ab-

stract to realism. She sculpts, paints and does ‘mixed media’, a process of combining different mediums to create a single artwork. Looking on her work, it’s apparent that there’s a certain darkness in Nok’s pieces, many of which deal with the concept of loneliness and isolation. “I like to focus on emotion,” explains Nok. Nok finds brightness nowadays teaching and making art – for her it’s a perfect balance. “I work as a [teaching] assistant because I’m thinking of the future – art is like fashion and changes style routinely, so if I can’t sell my work I can, of course, teach.” There’s a shyness to Nok, whether as a remnant of the little lonely girl from Sing-

buri or as a show of an inherent modesty. Her work, however, is bold, ambitious and executed with flair. Working at a private school and teaching one-on-one at the weekends means that Nok doesn’t have as much time as perhaps she should to dedicate to promoting and marketing her own exceptional work, so unfortunately her exhibitions are few and far between. She does have an exhibition coming up though, which is perhaps her brightest collection yet. “My exhibition’s theme is about love,” Nok says with a smile. Nok’s exhibition will be held at Mom Tri’s VR Gallery in April. For more information, visit: facebook.com/pages/LuxsanaCharernsriNok/154637768027420

Young Australian turns artists into artworks

n a case of role-swapping, criticturned-artist Andrew J West presents his first solo exhibition, Three Worlds, a photo-poetry-art show featuring the photographs of 27 wellknown and emerging Thai artists. The exhibition, held at the Bangkok Arts and Cultural Centre (BACC) and sponsored by Thailand’s Ministry of Culture and the Museum of Contemporary Art (Moca), merges photography and poetry to form an affectionate celebration of contemporary Thai art. Among the 27 photographed are internationally known Thai artists Thawan Duchanee, Vasan Sitthiket, Prateep Kochabua, as well as midcareer stars such as Thaweesak Srithongdee and Lampu Kansanoh. West says he hopes the exhibition will “promote Thai art and serve as a document about the Thai art scene”. Originally a journalist from Syd-

ney, West has spent the past decade living in Thailand, supporting the local art scene through his books, articles and short stories. His love for Thai art began back in Australia, where, studying at the University of Western Sydney (UWS), West formed friendships with students and teachers from Thailand’s Silpakorn University, a sister institution to UWS. After several increasingly prolonged trips to Thailand, West finally moved to Bangkok eight years after graduating with his Master of Arts. In Thailand, West’s career took off: he has published works in the Bangkok Post and Photo Art Magazine, and two non-fiction art books, Prateep Kochabua: Destiny To Imagination (2013) and the forthcoming Contemporary Thai Directory Of Artists. Three Worlds seems to be an inevitable culmination of West’s experience

and knowledge of the Thai art scene. His transition from critic to creator was entirely accidental. “I’ve never viewed myself as an artist, and to turn around and suddenly become an artist has been very exciting.” The exhibition title references the Traiphum, or The Three Worlds, the earliest known Thai illustrated manuscript, circa 1345. West says he chose this title as it “relates to Thailand, and the project’s tripartite combination of photography, poetry and art”. The idea for the show came to West nearly two years ago, while writing his Contemporary Thai Directory Of Artists. “I wanted to do something to support the directory, and I got this idea at four in the morning. Within two weeks I had bought the camera, taken my first few photographs and started writing poems for them,” he says.

Despite having no formal art training, West hit the ground running. “I didn’t have much experience, but I knew I had a good eye for it.” The exhibition is simple in nature. The 27 featured artists have been photographed posing with one of their own artworks, usually gazing directly into the camera. Though it runs the risk of looking like a PR shoot, the careful composition and accompanying poetic verses, which West calls “photo-poetry”, adds complexity to the series. He has enclosed the photographs in plexiglass and written short verses in marker over each frame so the viewer simultaneously experiences the impact of the photo and the poetry. Influenced by the works of Andre Breton and other surrealist poets, West says his work is an attempt to “unite the two art forms of visual art and writing”. Bangkok Post

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PEOPLE 3

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The drive to succeed J.P. Mestanza editor2@classactmedia.co.th

A veteran of several local running events, as well as Australian and Thailand masters competitions, Hossack says she plans to compete in the World Championships next year in Lyon. A multi-sport athlete who specialises in short distances and hurdles, her main focus is on the day-to-day: helping children find their potential

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fter spending 20 years sailing from country to country, staying wherever the anchor dropped, Michele Hossack needed a new challenge. Or rather, an old one. “In my teenage years I was very serious about athletics; all throughout university,” she says while sitting on a bleacher on the British International School Phuket’s sports field. “I got back into it through triathlon training when my daughter got into it.” The 51-year-old primary school teacher recently set a world record for the female Masters division (50-54 year olds) in the 300 metre hurdles at the 17th Oceania Masters Athletics Championships in Bendigo, Australia. But in Phuket, she’s known simply as Mrs Hossack – a mother of two who helps children both inside and outside the classroom, teaching everything from English language skills to hurdling. “I certainly work a lot with primary kids; some of them very much love the fact that I train. A couple of the kids will come out to the field and try to beat me,” she says with a laugh. Before Hossack got back into athletics at the age of 45, she spent much of that time sailing with her husband, whom she met when she was 23-years-old. Since meeting him in Australia, the Belfast-native has travelled the world in a yacht. The list of places she called home, for several months at a time, reads like a traveller’s dream: a year in the Caribbean, a year in South Africa, plus months travelling along South East Asia and beyond. Along the way, she had two kids – Timana and Drew – and homeschooled them until her mid-40’s. That’s when the family settled in Phuket, enrolling their kids at her current school when her son was a teenager. A few years later, Hossack gained her credentials to teach at the school and the rest is history. Now, she spends two to three mornings a week waking up at 5.45am to train before school starts. Right after the last bell rings, she spend some days coaching students in track and field events. “I am one of those people that likes being physically tired at the end of the day,” she says. Still, despite her success, Hossack says she wishes there was a coach around sometimes. “When I go back to Australia for competitions, all the other athletes I compete against all have coaches and training partners. “That’s what I miss,” she says, “Someone to crack the whip, to say ‘Come on, just do it’; to think for you when you’re tired.” A veteran of several local running events, as well

as Australian and Thailand masters competitions, Hossack says she plans to compete in the World Championships next year in Lyon. A multi-sport athlete who specialises in short distances and hurdles, Hossack says her main focus is on the day-to-day: helping children find their potential in the

classroom and the field. “I do a lot of work with the senior girls especially. It’s a tremendous advantage being a multi-sport athlete so I can give them tips. In any school, there will always be someone like me willing to teach children and help them excel,” she says.

4 EDUCATION

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 14,2014 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 14,

Record-breaking teacher ASK THE AJARN

Eric Haeg eric@teflcampus.com

I saw students start secondary school and I attended their graduations. There’s a parental pride when you see them grow into young talented adults

ontrary to the been-there-done-that attitude of most TEFL teachers in Phuket, after completing his TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) qualification in 2005, Colin Smith taught at Satrii Phuket School for eight straight years, becoming the longest-serving foreign teacher in the school’s history. The Phuket News recently sat down with Mr Smith to pick his brain and discover why he’s finally decided to leave the profession, but not the island. What were you doing before coming to Phuket? I was working as a professional golf caddy in Scotland. That’s a dramatic change. What did you like most about your new career? Helping students develop, giving them confidence and teaching them to use English to learn more about the world. And the downsides? Being unable to change an outdated system which leaves students unfulfilled. They have so much potential but the current system is cheating them out of a proper education.

A TEFL trainer since 2007, Eric Haeg welcomes all questions and comments: eric@teflcampus.com

I’m sure many teachers would agree. What about your unique experience of having seen so many students over eight consecutive years? Truly amazing. I saw students start secondary school and I attended their graduations. There’s a parental pride when you see them grow into young talented adults.

Colin Smith (above right) taught at Satrii Phuket School for a record-breaking eight straight years. What three words would you use to describe Thai students? Underestimated, respectful, fun-loving. Thai nicknames can be rather amusing to new teachers; go on and list some of the best you’ve seen Garfield, Danish, Torres, Coke, Kitkat, Boom, PP and Captain, but my favourite was Lamborghini. If you could change one thing about Thai education, what would it be? Three things: base classes on language levels, allow students more freedom to choose their subjects and reduce class sizes significantly. Any changes for foreign teachers? Don’t constantly dumb down your lessons and focus on games. The students are keen to learn new things so be creative with your materials and lessons. What are you doing now?

I’m the Executive Assistant Manager at a resort in Kamala. Why did you decided to leave the education sector? Sadly, there is nowhere for a foreigner to progress their career in the Thai education system. Do you miss it? I will always miss the students’ enthusiasm. They keep you young and constantly amaze you. They also make you feel special and there is a bond that grows over time that is priceless. Looking back on it, what advice would you give teachers who are just starting their career on Phuket? Don’t treat the job as ‘a bit of a laugh’. It is serious and while the system is hugely flawed, we should try hard. Students know which teachers try to help them and will respect them for it. We have more influence than we realise.

THAILAND SWEEPS AWARDS AT SHELL ECO-MARATHON ASIA

Thailand has emerged major victors at Shell Eco-marathon (SEM) Asia 2014 in Manila, with three champion titles. Team How Much Ethanol from Panjavidhya Technological College Thailand (pictured above) drove 2,730km on a litre of ethanol – the highest mileage recorded at this year’s competition and the equivalent distance from Manila to Jakarta. The Shell Eco-marathon began in 1939 in the United States as a friendly wager between scientists to see who could get the most miles per gallon from their vehicle. The winner of that contest barely achieved 50 mpg (21 km/l). More info: shell.com/ecomarathon. thephuketnews

HEALTH 5

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Helping cross-cultural couples Jody Houton editor3@classactmedia.co.th

When a young woman feels like she has to stay at home with an old man all the time it becomes boring and quite sad. If the man is very old, I will explain to them both the importance that she has her own space and goes out with her own friends. They can both do that – it’s good for them

Saksri ‘Mouse’ Kerdphol, general manager of Phuket Auto Express.

aintaining a relationship is hard enough between couples who share the same interests, but when you have to deal with a huge age gap, different socioeconomic background, and language barrier, it’s understandable why there are often problems between foreign men and Thai women. “I have many foreign male friends who have Thai girlfriends, and I’d say around 70 per cent of them have problems,” says Saksri ‘Mouse’ Kerdphol, general manager of Phuket Auto Express, who is hoping to offer some much needed help and advice to couples in need. Saksri’s ‘Emotional Rescue’ relationship advice service sprung from having to frequently help her friends. “I’d be getting calls in the middle of the night from them asking for advice, and it was their idea that I do this really – to open up a counselling service,” she says. It is always the same problems, Saksri says: issues concerning Thai women cheating with Thai men or being accused of only wanting money from their foreign partner. “The foreign men complain that after they get married, [the Thai woman] changes, and that after they split, the Thai woman gets the house, the car and even the yacht. “Many of these women in these relationships are from Isaan, where if you manage to find a rich husband you are the talk of the town and envy of your neighbours.” However, Saksri disagrees that it is this societal expectation that fosters Thai women’s view of money as paramount in a relationship. For her the fact that many poorer girls from Isaan are choosing money over love – an action that is often sanctioned by their parents – is not an excuse, but merely an explanation. “I was raised to be honest,” she said, “If I wanted to follow money, it was never through this way.” It is thus one of Saksri’s aims to enable both the foreign man and the Thai woman to

be at peace, in a monetary sense, with such an arrangement. “Many foreigners are shocked when their girlfriend starts regularly asking how much money they are going to receive so they can send it to their parents.” This is one of the biggest cultural differences, Saksri says, so tact is needed to appease each side. “The man can perhaps give her a monthly allowance and let her be responsible for how and what she spends it on,” she recommends. As well as for sending money home, this allowance, suggests Saksri, could also be used for when the young Thai woman goes out with her friends – something she suggests to couples. “When a young woman feels like she has to stay at home with an old man all the time it becomes boring and quite sad. “If the man is very old, I will explain to them both the importance that she has her own space and goes out with her own friends. They can both do that separately – it’s good for them.” Although it sounds rather obvious, Saksri also suggests that it is good if both of them have a shared interest, for example in golf or tennis. Problems arise when a couple have noth-

ing in common. In the past, she says, the Thai-foreign relationship used to have fewer differences. “When I was young I would see the odd Thai-foreign couple, but these were almost always Thai women from a good background, educated, perhaps having studied or worked abroad, which was probably how they met in the first place.” Saksri believes it’s no longer like that, with many Thai women – predominantly from Isaan – coming to the island to seek out a wealthy, foreign partner. “I used to own a massage shop and every one of my four girls who worked there, who were all from Isaan, had made the trip to Phuket to marry a rich foreigner.” Saksri adds that there are still relationships between upper class Thai women and foreigners, but that the numbers of these couples had been eclipsed by the ‘other’ type of relationship. On a brighter note, Saksri, a romantic at heart, still believes that love can conquer all, and that as long as both parties do love one another, then there is a good chance they can make it work. For more information on the service, email Saksri at: saksri@autoexpress.co.th.

Youngsters warned over ‘selfie’ addiction

he Department of Mental Health has warned young people who are obsessed with the popular “selfie” trend that they could lose self-confidence and that the addiction could have a negative impact on their life and work. The selfie narcissistic culture is popular among local internet users, especially in the teenage and student groups, who post photographs of themselves online in a bid to seek approval and attention, department deputy director-general Panpimol Wipulakorn said in a statement released on Sunday. She claimed such behavior could lead to mental health problems in future, especially related to self-confidence, and this could unexpectedly cause a negative effect on a person’s everyday life, future career and even the country’s development. “A selfie creates an impact, more or less, on one’s everyday life, depending on each individual. “Posting photos [on social network sites] to seek approval and ‘likes’ from peers as a reward is normal human nature. Whatever people do and then get rewarded for it, they will do again,” Dr Panpimol said. “But the reward has varying degrees of emotional effects on each individual. Some people are happy @thephuketnews

after sharing a selfie and getting few likes, while others expect as many likes as possible and become addicted to being liked. “Conversely, if they feel they don’t get enough likes for their selfie as expected, they decide to post another, but still do not receive a good response. “This could affect their thoughts. They can lose self-confidence and have a negative attitude toward themselves, such as feeling dissatisfied with themselves or their body. “Paying too much attention to one’s shared selfies by continuing to check on who sees or comments on them in the hope of getting the most likes as possible is a sign that selfies are causing problems for them, including a possible lack of self-confidence,” Dr Panpimol said. Thailand has approximately 19 million users of Facebook and 800,000 users of Instagram, according to a survey by the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), a public organisation. The mental health expert quoted an American psychiatrist as saying that that selfies could undermine or erode one’s self-confidence and self-esteem. She added that public health officials in the UK had announced that addiction to social media such

as Facebook and Twitter was an illness and more than 100 patients sought treatment every year. She said self-confidence is crucial as it enables people to have self-satisfaction, happiness, accept truth and not hunt for love or attention from others. Those losing self-confidence can feel nervous, hesitant and not happy with their life. Living under such conditions for a long time could lead to mental and emotional disturbances such as paranoia, jealousy, nitpicking and depression. “If Thai youth become lacking in confidence, this means they are unlikely to try new things in their lives and they will simply follow or imitate others – and that will make it hard for them to develop. “This could affect the development of the country in the future as the number of new generation leaders will fall short. It will hinder the country’s creativity and innovation. Those in work will advance in their careers more slowly than other people [with self-confidence],” Dr Panpimol said. “Taking selfies cannot be done all the time and when being in an inappropriate place and time you must force yourself to go against your will to do it. If you can pass that point. Next time you will be able to control your selfie-taking behaviour.” Bangkok Post

6 KIDS

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FRIDAY, 14,2014 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 14,

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8 DINING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 14,2014 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 14,

Phuket Foodies cook up a storm Claire Connell editor1@classactmedia.co.th

I love being around interesting people. I enjoy sitting around a table, eating and drinking and having good conversation. It’s more about the social experience – interesting places and environments with good menus

Top right, Australian businessman Graeme Lahman has set up the Phuket Foodies group.

new culinary networking group – Phuket Foodies – has been set up on the island as an opportunity for interested people to get together to enjoy good food and conversation. Run by Australian expat and retired businessman Graeme Lahman, the group meet up every few weeks at various dining venues around Phuket. Graeme, who says he’s a “natural networker”, moved to Phuket 18 months ago with his Slovenian wife Mimi. Before that he worked in Beijing for eight years, where he had his own creative agency and helped set up the city’s first off-premise catering company. On the side, he also ran a ‘Brunch Club’ as a way of promoting his catering company. This rapidly grew to around 2,000 members who would try a different brunch location each week. “It was done as a marketing exercise but it was good fun. “When I arrived in Phuket, after I explored a lot of places I started getting a bit bored, so I thought I would start a dining club, and Phuket Foodies was born,” Graeme says. “I love being around interesting people. I enjoy sitting around a table, eating and drinking and having good conversation. It’s more about the social experience – interesting places and environments with good menus.” The group’s first event was held recently at Da Vinci restaurant in Naiharn, with

around 20 people. “Claudio the chef was very passionate about risotto. We did a lunch with three different styles of risotto, and talked about what makes a good risotto – it was great fun.” Graeme also wants to start up regular business-focussed lunch networking events, where entrepreneurs on the island can get together to share and discuss ideas, and help new businesses get on their feet. His aim is to try and get a mix of men and women, plus both Thais and foreigners. “I’m working on getting interesting Thai people to come along. It’s a bit hard but slowly more are becoming involved.” There are no membership fees for the group, and surplus funds from each event will be donated to charity, which at the mo-

ment is the Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation. At each food event, a representative from the foundation will speak about the work they do. The next Phuket Foodies event will be on February 27 at Royale Nam Tok, near the Kathu Waterfall. It starts at 7pm and is B3,000 per person for the five course meal, including several drinks. Several weeks after that will be an event at Kata Rocks, and there’s also a plan for an event on a yacht too. Anyone who is interested in joining Phuket Foodies, or has a suggestion for an interesting dining venue, can contact Graeme by email on graemelahman@live.com or by calling him at 091-823-8903.

NEW F&B EAM FOR CENTARA GRAND Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket has appointed a new Executive Assistant Manager – Food & Beverage, Paul Orny. Mr Orny is a French national with more than eight years hotel industry experience with leading hotels such as Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas, Hua Hin; Aleenta Resort and Spa Phuket, Phang Nga; and Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square. Graduating from Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne, Switzerland, Paul has now been living in Thailand for more than seven years.

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014 List your restaurant here: call 076 612 550 or email sales@classactmedia.co.th

DINING GUIDE 9

EUROPEAN

INTERNATIONAL

INDIAN

SEAFOOD

Bodega & Grill

Irish Times

Navrang Mahal

Trisara Seafood

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

The first truly world-class destination seafood dining experience on Phuket. A private entrance leads guests either to an outdoor, beachfront deck or to the cool, relaxed interior. The menu is a balance between local and imported seafood prepared and served in a Mediterranean way. Dinner 7pm-10.30pm. Trisara, 076 310 100.

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

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

Ceramic Kitchen Mom Tri’s Villa Royale

ITALIAN

RE KÁ TA Beach Club

Acqua

Enjoy fine dining with panoramic sea views in sensually indulgent setting. Delicious Thai and European creations are served on the open-air terrace. Mom Tri’s Villa Royale is the winner of the Wine Spectators Award of Excellence. Situated on the only road into to Kata Noi Beach. Reservations recommended. momtriphuket .com; 076 333 568

Enjoy a unique dining and shopping experience at Ceramic Kitchen. We offer a wide range of beverages as well as the chance to shop for ceramic after your lunch or dinner, while every Sunday we do a traditional roast all day. We’re also experts for special events, wedding ceremonies, staff parties, birthday parties and more. 185/5 Moo 7, Srisoonthorn Rd., T. Srisoonthorn, Thalang district. 076 272151-2, 082 153 3163

FRENCH

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

The beachfront restaurant offers modern innovative cuisine with a strong focus on seafood. In the evening RE KÁ TA transforms with Kata’s magical sunsets and cool sounds along with the delicious drinks and tapas, right on the beach. Open daily 6.30am-11pm; Kata Beach (next to Boathouse); info@rekataphuket.com, rekata phuket.com, 076 330 421

Baan Kalim Restaurant & Seafood KEE Sky Lounge

DaVinci

La Boucherie

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

“A World of Fusion Awaits You !” Trendy rooftop dining, drinking and dancing venues with Patong Bay view. Serving up an eclectic mix of tasty east-meets-west tapas, appetizers, and a colourful new vibe on the rooftop with light and sound from in-house Live Band. Enjoy our trendy new fusion finger food influenced by cooking styles from around the world alongside your main course, or simply relax with some Eurasian tapas and sip sundowners from our new selection of creative cocktails. Open 5.30PM- Midnight, Contact us: The KEE Resort & Spa, Phuket Tel.076 335 888

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

Diavolo

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

THAI Baan Aroi Restaurant

Breeze Restaurant Panache Restaurant

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

Tre by Double Pool Villas

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

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Try our creative and innovative cuisine. Open daily from 7.00 am till 11.00 pm. Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas, outriggerthailand.com.

The Bistro Restaurant

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

Offers authentic Thai cuisine, showcasing traditional local flavours with the freshest, finest and healthiest ingredients. This restaurant is surrounded by a lush tropical garden and provides a warm and friendly atmosphere. Open daily from 11.00 am till 9.00 pm. Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas, outriggerthailand.com.

JAPANESE Talung Thai Tamarind Restaurant

Find all the Italian traditions in one location, and savor and experience the real Mama style dishes serving only the traditional taste of Italia. The Bistro is at Impiana Resort Patong Phuket. Happy Hours 50 per cent off for selected beverages, soft drinks, juices from 3pm-5pm & 10pm11pm daily. Open 3pm-12am. Impiana Resort Patong Phuket, Patong Beach, 076 340 138.

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

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

10 TRAVEL

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 14,2014 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 14,

TAT to publish travel guides in Braille

aruemit Jitrat, a first-year student at the Social Administration Faculty, Thammasat University, runs his fingers from left to right to read sentences in Braille, the language he has studied since kindergarten. He smiles while reading page after page of Thailand’s first travel book for the blind. “It is good to know that there is such a book,” he said, adding that reading a Braille book was easier and quicker than finding tourism information on the internet and letting a computer application read the information out to him. “The book is also another option when all computers in my school are occupied,” he said.

The book was launched last year by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and is entitled Tiew Muangthai… Samphad Duay Jai Lae Playniew, which means “travelling in Thailand… by heart and fingertips”. “Tourism must not be limited to those who can see because travelling is for everyone,” TAT Deputy Governor Sugree Sithivanich told the Bangkok Post. “Those who are blind or virtually impaired should have a chance to travel.” With that in mind, TAT set aside a B5 million budget in 2013 for producing 5,000 Braille books and organising other activities for the blind, such as hosting short trips and providing white canes for blind students. The Braille guide has 100 pages,

TAT Deputy Governor Sugree Sithivanich with the new Braille guide to Thailand. Photo: Bangkok Post and is 2.5cm thick and 30cm long. It is published in full colour and is in Thai. Each page is laid out like a normal travel book, with beautiful pictures and information, but without maps. The Braille inscription is superimposed on regular text and pictures of each right page, starting from the cover until the back page. The inside content includes a message from the TAT governor, index pages ,and travel content for five regions in the Kingdom. Each region comprises four to five well-known provinces. Each province has brief information about selected attractions such as history and highlights plus contact numbers. “The book can also benefit those who are not blind. They might use the book to travel with the blind so they can read information out loud and enjoy travelling together,” he said. TAT outsourced the book project and supplied the content to a private company to manage and publish the books. The Foundation for the Blind in Thailand also contributed to the project. The

books have been distributed to libraries in schools for the blind nationwide. Although the book is the first Braille travel guide, two years ago one publication distributed its free copy magazine called Ya Hae with Braille inscription raised over a travel story in the six middle pages. It received about a B1 million fund from TAT. However, the magazine has shut shop since. The magazine made TAT realise that printing Braille alphabets need paper of a certain level of thickness. “Although the magazine used good-quality paper, Braille inscriptions disappeared if the magazine was put under heavy things or after several times of reading,” Sugree said. So TAT put an emphasis on the quality of paper for its first Braille book. This year, TAT plans to publish five Braille books for each region in Thailand. It plans to launch 1,000 Braille books for the north and another 1,000 books for the northeast this year. In addition to the publications, TAT also wants to train service people in the tourism industry on how to take care of the disabled, and has joined forces with travel agents to host tours for the blind, deaf and for those who use wheelchairs. “We used to host a trip for the blind at Santi Chai Prakan Park [on Phra Arthit Road]. We walked them through the [riverside] park, tell them about the history of the fort and describe the atmosphere and things around them. The park also has Braille paths to facilitate the blind,” he said. “We like to host such trips as often as we can because travelling will help the blind to know more about the beauty of our country and to widen their knowledge on it,” he said. Bangkok Post

Above, a page of the Braille travel guide. Photo: Bangkok Post. Top, reading Braille. Photo: antonioxalonso thephuketnews

TRAVEL 11

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Waterfalls and bananas Peerawat Jariyasombat

The museum attracts visitors with its architectural style of the Central Region and exhibitions on the town, however what I found more interesting was its backyard, where over 150 species of local bananas have been planted

Clockwise from above: A child looks up at a gigantic Buddha image in Wat Phra Si Iriyabot; a slim pagoda in the Kamphaeng Phet style; Khlong Lan Waterfall. All photos: Bangkok Post

@thephuketnews

topping by Kamphaeng Phet isn’t high up on many motorists’ lists, but the longer I lingered, the more interesting things I began to find hidden in this modest old town. If you regularly travel between Bangkok and the northern provinces via Asian Highway 1, you may have noticed stalls lining the road, attracting customers with big bunches of bananas, banana shoots and other banana products. The bustling roadside market indicates you are approaching Kamphaeng Phet. Compared to nearby provinces like Tak and Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet is much less famous. This quiet province is not on many travellers’ maps, so do not expect luxurious hotels or exciting attractions here. However, if you are looking for a serene place rich in history and natural resources, this is the spot. Kamphaeng Phet’s history can be dated back some 700 years. It once served as a hub for people from other regions to meet and trade, gradually developing into an important frontier town. Kamphaeng Phet served as a major fort for Ayutthaya when the kingdom battled with Lanna in the North — strong fort walls with arrow slits can still be seen, reflecting the town’s importance. After the 15th century the Sukhothai Kingdom lost its influence in the region, but Kamphaeng Phet continued to play an important role as a Buddhism hub. It is believed that Kamphaeng Phet once housed the Emerald Buddha and the Phra Buddha Sihing, an important Lanna Buddha image. Strolling through serene landscapes and ancient Buddhist temples in Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park allows you a clearer picture of the town. The park is rather quiet and peaceful compared to famous sites in Sukhothai or Ayutthaya. Kids are free to play under the shade of huge trees without their parents worrying about cars. A unique attraction next to the historical park is Chalerm Phrakiat National Museum. The museum attracts visitors with its architectural style of the Central Region and exhibitions on the town, however what I found more interesting was its backyard, where over 150 species of local bananas have been planted, including the province’s famous kluay hai. Take notice of kluay tanee dum, or wild Musa balbisiana Colla, which has a surprisingly black trunk and petioles. The metallic-coloured fruit of the red banana is considered an oblation to the gods, while the blood banana’s (Musa gracilis Horltt) leaves have a camouflage design, like a soldier’s battle uniform. The museum sells banana shoots, as well, but you can also find them at the Banana Market on Asian Highway 1, which is probably the liveliest spot in the province. The roadside market showcases the best Kamphaeng Phet has to offer, selling various products such

as bananas, dried fruits, brooms and hammocks. The market is busy and lively all day, no matter how hot it might be. You will see motorists taking a break, trying out chao kuay, which is black jelly served with ice cubes and syrup. Plant lovers search for orchids and bananas, and ladies roam about, tasting various snacks. It is good idea to stock up on food at the market before having a picnic in the lush jungle near Khlong Lan Waterfall. This big and beautiful waterfall is

not popular, so you can enjoy a quiet day out in peaceful nature. To the southwest, close to Nakhon Sawan province, is a wilder side of Kamphaeng Phet. Brave tourists flock to Mae Wong National Park to conquer Mokoju Peak, which stands 1,964m above sea level. The round-trip trek to the peak takes five days, but hikers say the view is worth the journey. The longer you linger, the more interesting things you will find in this quiet town. Bangkok Post

12 TECHNOLOGY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 14,2014 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 14,

IN BRIEF Thai Airways’ on-board Wi-Fi

National airline carrier Thai Airways has been granted an in-flight wi-fi license from the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and will start offering the service in February. Passengers will be charged B150 for 3mb of data allowance and B460 for 10 mb of data allowance. The airline’s Airbus A380 and A330 planes will be the first ones equipped with the service. Thai Airways applied for the license back in August 2013 but was finally approved in January.

PS4 to play PS1, PS2 games

Sony is currently working on bringing back PlayStation 1 and 2 games for the PlayStation 4 under a local emulator, allowing older games to look much smoother with HD visual enhancements. At the moment, the PS4 can only play PS3 games through streaming cloud service PlayStation Now. The change would call for all of the games in the previous generations to become visually updated before they are available for download, which would eliminate lag times and blurry upscaling.

Thai Hondas to include Siri

The Honda City 2014 will be the first car available in Thailand to offer Siri Eye Free technology which allows drivers to use voice control without having to look at your iPhone. T he company w ill also include a seveninch screen that connects iPhone models, from the 4S and above. As one of the three biggest car manufacturers in Thailand, the company produces over 280,000 units per year. Though Honda does include Siri technology in their Accord, Acura RDX, and Acura ILX models, the Honda City is the first in Thailand to offer this service.

The Wolf Among Us: Episode 2 GAME REVIEW

Kickstarter takes top T honours at Crunchies

J.P. Mestanza editor2@classactmedia.co.th

ast week, the 7th annual Crunchies Award show recognised some of the top startups and technology companies in the industry. The awards, which were awarded by several technology blogs in Silicon Valley and hosted by British comedian Jon Oliver, saw several high and low profile winners on their slate. Kickstarter took home the award for Best Overall Startup, beating out a strong list of contenders that included Snapchat, Twitter, Uber – which placed second – and CloudFlare. The company helps give innovators a platform to crowd-fund a particular project, from movies to new technology to businesses. Last year, over three million people pledged US$480 million (B15.7 billion) to nearly 20,000 different projects on Kickstarter.

“We believe that people are amazing, that ideas are exhilarating and that we’re all capable of doing incredible things. Thank you for letting us serve you,” said co-founder and CEO Yancey Strickland in his speech. Tinder, a matchmaking app, won the top prize for Best New Startup while virtual reality video game system Oculus VR won for Best Hardware Startup. Other winners include Upworthy, a website that aggregates interesting YouTube video content through community moderators, for Fastest Rising Startup, while Snapchat, an app that automatically deletes media messages after a few seconds, won for Best Mobile Application.

Electric tuk-tuks lead the charge

lectric tuk-tuks could be coming to Phuket sooner rather than later. Tuk Tuk Factory, which began as a graduation project for Dutch engineering student D en n i s H a r t e, h a s quickly gained steam as the Bangkok-based startup begins to export vehicles all over the world. The company manufactures tuk-tuks that run on an electric motor, with obvious environmental benefits that could have a potentially big impact in Asia – for the right price.

The upfront cost of these tuk-tuks is about three times as much as conventional ones, though drivers will ultimately save more money on gas since the E-tuk, as they’re known, only need to be plugged in. So far, the company has sold a majority of electr ic tu k-tu ks to green European nations, including The Netherlands, Italy and France. While it may take a while for the E-Tuk to catch on locally, the convenience, environmental impact, and eventual cost-savings could prove to be too much to resist.

TOP MOBILE APPS THIS WEEK

TOP CONSOLE GAMES THIS WEEK: 1

Call of Duty: Ghosts

Xbox 360, PS3, Xbox One, PS4

Fifa 14

Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, Vita

The Wolf Among Us

The Walking Dead: Season Two

Xbox 360, PS3, PC, Vita

Battlefield 4 (18+)

Xbox 360, PS3, PC

Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag (18+)

Xbox 360, PS3

Couple (Dating)

iOS, Android

Europa Universalis IV

Kirby 3DS

3DS

Red Stamp (Social)

iOS, Android

Grand Theft Auto V (18+)

Xbox 360, PS3

10 Gran Turismo 6

PS3

Twine Canvas (Photo) iOS, Android

Snapchat (Messenger) Sochi 2014 Guide (Olympics)

iOS, Android iOS, Android

he second installment of Telltale Ga me’s episod ic adventure game, The Wolf Among Us, provides much more depth of character than the first edition, and surrounds the gamer with Fables lore. The game is based off of the Fables comic book universe, which uses characters from classic fairy tales (like Snow White, Mr Toad, and Ichabod Crane). As such, the gamer plays as Bigby Wolf, the sheriff of New York’s Fabletown neighborhood and formerly known as the Big Bad Wolf. Whereas in the first game Bigby is just beginning his murder investigation, this episode goes further into the Fabletown world while providing a dynamic range of challenges. The gamer controls everything Bigby does – from responses during conversations to interrogation tactics – with all actions having consequences that send the plot off in different directions. That said, while Episode 2 does not move the story along too far, it certainly sets up nasty villains. The graphics are also unique, with ign.com describing them thus, “If [first episode] Faith felt like an ‘80s noir, Smoke and Mirrors is akin to a David Fincher-directed episode of True Detective.” Wit h t h r e e mor e episodes to be released, The Wolf Among Us is on path to be the best episodic game in history, especially with its cast of familiar characters from childhood. But make no mistake, this is no kids game.

Which game would you like us to review? Let us know at editor2@classactmedia.co.th. thephuketnews

FILM 13

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

IN BRIEF Hoffman had only seven days left to shoot

Lone Survivor

Rugged, raw and real FILM REVIEW J.P. Mestanza editor2@classactmedia.co.th

Lone Survivor will most likely be considered as this decade’s Black Hawk Down – a film about a failed mission that is beautifully shot with realistic action that portrays without glamourising

Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Taylor Kitsch, Emile Hirsch, Ben Foster, and Eric Bana Director: Peter Berg Running time: 121 minutes

n this highly-rated war film, complicated issues are abound and it’s up to the characters, and the audience, to keep it together to the bitter end. An action-drama with a minimalist approach, or so it seems, Lone Survivor does not play games with its violence. This film is real, raw, and ready to make you uncomfortable the moment a choice is made. It’s a simple story about how one decision ultimately affects the lives of several people and the ripple effects of a heartbreaking scenario. Based on the autobiography of American soldier Marcus Luttrell, the story takes place during Operation Red Wings in which four Navy SEALs are tasked to track Taliban leader Ahmad Shah in the mountains of Afghanistan. When the crew are discovered by a group of goat herders, they find themselves in a moral conundrum – do they kill or let them go and risk being discovered and ultimately ambushed? The trailer for the film portrays the team letting him go, something they later regret when the goat herder does exactly what they fear and alerts the enemy of their presence. Unlike other war films, Lone Survivor does not spend much time in the character development phase. The first act is pretty much a recruitment video complete with generic training montages. The movie picks up once we meet our goat herders. Yes, we understand these men are friends with inside jokes, light teasing, and some generic banter thrown in. But it’s when the bullets fly and the boots hit the ground that we see real camaraderie and sacrifice. An understated aspect of the film is the portrayal of non-Taliban Afghans; villag-

SFX Coliseum Phuket (Central Festival)

I, Frankenstein (3D/E) I, Frankenstein (E) Kan La Krang Nueng jon Wan Nee (T) The Legend of Hercules (3D/T) The Legend of Hercules (E) Lone Survivor (E) See Riang Sian Tod (T) Tai Hong Tai Hian (T) The Wolf of Wall Street (E) The Wolf of Wall Street (G/E)

@thephuketnews

11:10, 15:20, 19:30 13:15, 17:25, 21:35 14:15, 19:10 13:50, 18:10, 22:25 11:40, 16:00, 20:20 12:00, 14:35, 17:10, 19:45, 22:15 11:50, 16:45, 21:40 13:00, 15:20, 17:40, 20:00, 22:20, 11:20, 14:50, 18:20, 21:50 13:10, 16:40, 20:10

Lionsgate Films confirmed that there were only seven days left to shoot The Hunger Games sequels before Philip Seymour Hoffman’s tragic death last week. The actor, who portrayed game master Plutarch Heavensbee in Catching Fire, was found dead with a needle sticking out of his arm in his New York City apartment. A majority of his scenes were reportedly already filmed for Mockingjay Part 1 and 2 when news of his death spread. The company also announced that the release dates for the films (November 2014 and 2015) have not been affected.

Jesse Eisenberg is Lex Luthor

Director Zack Snyder has confirmed that The Social Network star will play the notorious Superman villain in Superman Vs. Batman which is set for a May 2016 release. Snyder also confirmed that Jeremy Irons will take up the role of Alfred to Ben Affleck’s Batman character. Both Irons and Jesse Eisenberg will join a cast that includes Gal Gadot (Wonder Woman) Laurence Fishburne, Amy Adams, and Diane Lane.

Russel Brand to play reporter in book adaptation

ers who simply want to be left alone by both sides but ultimately become helpful towards our protagonists. The kindness of strangers, especially coming from a population that has been continuously demonised as the enemy for the past decade, is a great change and far more realistic. Make no mistake, it is a beautifully shot film but is tough to watch. Lone Survivor is almost a visceral experience as the audience feels every hit, shot, kick, and death. There are not Michael Bay-ish side explosions or fake sparks flying for the sake of action. It’s violent without being gratuitous. The final two acts of Lone Survivor are horrific, with close-up shots that shows us just how much the Taliban were herding the soldiers in close quarters combat without realising it. It almost seems as though one large action scene, which could rival the opening battle sequence of Saving Private Ryan. But unlike that memorable film, Lone Survivor will most likely be considered as this decade’s Black Hawk Down – a film about a failed mission that is beautifully shot with realistic action that portrays without glamourising. Lone Survivor is a brilliant war film that makes you wince, think, and maybe even gag a bit, but one that will make you run to the theatre again.

Vernon God Little, an award-winning book about a fictional news story, will be brought to the big screen with two British stars already signed-on. Comedian Russell Brand as well as InBetweeners’ actor Austin Abrams will star in the Werner Herzog directed film about a boy wrongly accused of gunning down his peers and fleeing to Mexico to escape media scrutiny. Brand will portray a conniving reporter who will cover the story. South African actress Sasha Pieterse was also cast in the film, which has no production date yet.

US BOX OFFICE TOP 10 Film

Gross

$69.1M

The Lego Movie

The Monuments Men

$22M

Ride Along

$9.6M

$105.3M

Frozen

$6.9M

$368.6M

Lone Survivor

$5.6M

$112.9M

That Awkward Moment

$5.2M

$16.5M

Vampire Academy

$3.9M

The Nut Job

$3.8M

$55M

Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit

$3.5M

$44.4M

$3.2M

$10.1M

10 Labor Day

SFC Jungceylon Phuket (Patong) Her (E) I, Frankenstein (3D/E) The Legend of Hercules (3D/E) Lone Survivor (E) Tai Hong Tai Hian (T) The Wolf of Wall Street (E)

Weekend

12:30, 16:10, 19:30, 22:00 14:00, 17:20, 21:00 11:50, 15:10, 18:50, 22:10 12:00, 14:35, 17:10, 19:45, 22:20 11:50, 14:10, 16:30, 18:50 11:45, 15:00, 18:30, 21:05

As some movies and movie times change every Thursday morning, after The Phuket News has gone to press, the accuracy of the following information cannot be guaranteed. For up-to-date information, visit sfcinemacity.com, or call the cinemas directly: SFX Coliseum Phuket 076-209000 and SFC Jungceylon Phuket 076-600-555.

14 ENTERTAINMENT

Eastwood saves man

o l ly w o o d ’s i c o n i c good guy, Clint Eastwood, is also a real life hero after swooping to rescue a choking guest at a California reception. “Clint saved my life,” Steve John told The Carmel Pine Cone newspaper. D u r i ng a rec eption late Wednesday for a golf tournament in Carmel-bythe-Sea, John was eating and chatting, only to get a piece of cheese stuck in his windpipe. The award-winning actor and director told the local paper that he saw in John “that look of panic people have when they see their life passing before their eyes”. AFP

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 14,2014 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 14,

Guitar legend Eric Clapton returns

egendary guitarist Eric Clapton is set to return to Thailand for Eric Clapton Live in Bangkok 2014 at Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani on March 2. The rock god will be delighting fans with his catalogue of classic songs including ‘Cocaine’, ‘Change the World’, ‘Layla’, ‘I Shot the Sherriff’, ‘Sunshine of Your Love’, ‘Blue Eyes Blue’, ‘Wonderful Tonight’ and many more. This will be Eric’s fourth visit to Bangkok. His previous visits in 1979, 2007 and 2011 were all for completely sold-out shows, so fans will need to get in early to secure their seats for this special concert. Clapton recently released a re-

mastered version of his classic Unplugged album. The album won 6 Grammy Awards, and has sold 19 million copies worldwide. Unplugged: Expanded and Remastered is now on sale, and ‘Slow Hand’ himself is on tour to promote the release. Clapton’s Thai fans can witness the return of the guitar god in Eric Clapton Live in Bangkok 2014 at Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani on 2 March, 2014. Ticket prices are B2,500, B3,500, B4,500 and B6,000 and are available from January 12 at all Thaiticketmajor outlets. Class Act Media and The Phuket News are sponsors of this event. For more information, visit thaiticketmajor.com or bectero.com.

Clooney hopeful panned movie will get fresh start

olly wood star G e orge Clo oney said Saturday that he is hopeful European audiences will respond to his lighttouch wartime drama The Monuments Men

after it got a mauling from US critics. Clooney presented the picture at the 64th Berlin film festival about a reallife corps of middle-aged art experts who go behind enemy lines to rescue pre-

cious works from the Nazis, one day after it opened in US cinemas. He said the film had been in the works for three years so the “amazing find” in Munich that emerged in November of a hoard

of hundreds of missing artworks believed looted by the Nazis had been pure coincidence. Initial feedback has been savage, with film industry bible Variety flaying the picture as an “ex-

ceedingly dull and dreary caper pic” while the New York Times called Clooney’s direction “stolid” and “pandering”. Asked by an American reviewer whether he thought the movie, his fifth

as a director, would get a “different” reception in Europe where the film is set, Clooney said: “We’ll see. This is our first city, the first screening was today. We hope good things.” AFP

thephuketnews

ISLAND SCENE 15

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Arnaud Verstraete, Zoran Lalvani, Alain Tabruyn, Kwanjai Wonglee and Gulu Lalvani.

GRAND OPENING AT RPM The grand opening of new restaurants and bars Madame Saigon, The Speakeasy Phuket and Pasta Basta was held at Royal Phuket Marina on February 5.

Zoran Lalvani, Grace Solomon, Jeanette Skelton and Thibault Spithakis.

Martin Carpenter, David Brook and Fiddy.

GOODBYE TO DORIS

CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATED IN PATONG Gerard Tan, the General Manager of Millennium Resort Patong Phuket, along with many guests and staff, welcomed the Year of the Horse with a lion dance performance plus a fireworks display on January 30.

Jim Newport, Liana Doyle and Brad Kenny.

A ‘Celebration of Paul’s Life’ event was held at the Irish Times on February 5 to honour Scottish expat Paul ‘DJ Doris’ Norris, who was killed in a motorbike crash.

OLD TOWN FEST BACK IN ACTION Phuket’s annual Old Town Festival was held last weekend with the aim to celebrate Phuket Town’s heritage. Photos: Suthicha Sirirat @thephuketnews

16 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 14,2014 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 14,

Michelle and Brett Wilson, Mike Smith and Nipa Nuannun.

FUNDRAISING FOR CHARITY A Masquerade Party, a fundraiser for the Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation, was held at the Pullman Phuket Arcadia on February 8. Photos: Max Tiverne & Four Seasons Info Media

Janessa Meier and Lorna Ross.

Tom and Sue Ultmann, Das and Nap.

Michael Cowan, Bill Black and Anthony Lark. From left, Poonsri and her husband, Boathouse owner Narong Pattamasaevi, Gov Maitri Inthusut and GM Marie Laure Fleury.

Jintana, Brice and Mandy.

25 YEARS AND COUNTING Boathouse on Kata Beach celebrated 25 years on February 8 with a lavish party.

Julie Hirunchai and Andrea Kotas Tammathin.

Poonsri Pattamasaevi with her sons Kittisak and Pongsak. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

ISLAND SCENE 17

REAL ESTATE SHOW RETURNS The Phuket Real Estate Show 2014, hosted by the Phuket Real Estate Association, was held on February 6-12 at Central Festival Phuket.

ROCKING PHUKET The Fab Beatles, hosted by Events International, performed at Boat Lagoon on February 7-8. The excited crowd included Live 89.5 DJ Jason Wilder.

@thephuketnews

FUN FOR THE FAMILY The Kids Club in Patong celebrated its grand opening on February 9.

18 EVENTS

List your event at thephuketnews.com

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, 14,2014 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 14, RBFC Thailand 2014 Classic Sport Fishing Tournament Offshore The Similan Islands

25 th

27 th February 2014

Proudly organised by the Rawai Beach Fishing Club, (RBFC) Phuket, Thailand.

Huge cash and other prizes to be won!!

57 hours of non -stop fishing!

Huge media coverage!

For further details please contact Warren Crowe or Andy Bright info@rawaibeachfishingclub.co m Warren tel: +66 (0) 812604291 Andy tel: +66 (0) 862739948 Website: www.rawaibeachfishingclub.com

Prizes include fishing trips, tackle, limited edition prints, and much more!

Rawai Beach Fishing Club is an official Sponsor Club of the International Game Fishing Association. RBFC supports recreational fishing

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 14

Valentine's Day @Air Rooftop

This is the perfect spot you are looking for to share with a special person with a romantic poolside setting with soft candles, stars on the horizon and beautiful tunes. Our chef has pulled out all the stops to create mouthwatering dishes served in an elaborate 4 course menu with one glass of red wine each and a red rose for the ladies. It’s a special price for a very special person. Starting 18.30-22.00 hrs. Centra Ashlee Hotel Patong, saleschp@ chr.co.th, 081 171 0143.

Magic Valentine

Do you believe in the magic of love? This Valentine’s, discover a world of enchantment with the award winning magician Lucca. Detached from the old clichés of magic, his talent for illusion will astonish, entertain and inspire you, with a unique show designed around the celebration of love. Ignite the love and loose yourself in the infinite vistas from our hilltop lookout, let us charm you with our love potions and savor Belinda’s food of love, accompanied by musical romance. Celebrate the most romantic night of the year at 360° Bar & Grill with our Magic Valentine at B5 000 net per couple. rm.phuket@thapavilionsresorts.com

Valentine Day

Enjoy an exclusive Valentine’s day at Centara Grand Beach Resort, start from 6.30 pm onwards. Ticket price THB 2,900++ per couple. To make a reservation, please call 076 201234.

Romance in Paradise

Create a truly memorable Valentine’s Day

with your loved one and indulge in a private 5-course dinner with fresh oysters, caviar, foie gras, Phuket lobster and grilled seafood. THB15,000++ per couple with a special bottle of sparkling. Or enjoy a fantastic BBQ buffet dinner with a selection of meats, local seafood grilled to order, gourmet dishes and delicious desserts at Seasonal Tastes for THB1,400++ per person on 14 February 6:30pm – 10:30pm. Call 076 335 600 visit westinsiraybay.com/ dining for more information.

ing on live shows and TV productions. His sons, Ben and Nathan, trained at this time and proved that talent is also in the blood. In 2003-4, Ian produced the TV series China’s Greatest Dares in Australia and then moved back to Thailand in 2005. Over the last three years, Ian has completed his second book KASKADER, about his time in Poland whilst living in a quiet area of Phuket waiting for the next adventure. facebook.com/pages/Ian-B-JamiesonStuntman/181855555236593 Doors open at 6:15pm, all welcome. Contact Address : A2 ACCESS Resort & Villas, Bypass Road, 081 970 7910 or ibap-phuket.org

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 15

4 Regions of Thailand Market Stroll through a lively Thai Market with art & craft stalls and enjoy fresh seafood and local delights, accompanied by authentic Thai Khim performances. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday starting 18:00, for THB 1,250 NET only. Baan Talay is the Thai signature restaurant of Angsana Laguna Phuket and situated on Bang Tao Beach behind XANA Beach Club. Angsana Laguna Phuket - Bang Tao Bay , Email : fbcoordinator-lagunaphuket@angsana. com , 076 324 101.

'A night of Romance'

Feel the love with “A Night of Romance” at DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Phuket Surin Beach on 14th February 2014 THB 2,199 net per couple THB 2,999 net per couple(Inclusive of selected beverage) THB 6,999 net per couple for the “Romantic Escape” package includes dinner,a bottle of wine and accommodation on 14th February 2014(breakfast for two the following morning). 076 303 300.

Ian B. Jamieson - A stuntman

Ian B. Jamieson was born on the 11th of June 1952 in Adelaide and grew up in the country town of Meningie. He finished schooling in the city, at Westminster, as a boarder where he was a better sportsman than a student. In Adelaide he began training to be a stuntman along with more than 130 other potentials. After one year he was the only one still standing. “I didn’t really want to be a stuntman as my dream was to be a film producer. However, stunts were the only way into the film industry for me.” In the mid ‘70s he started Australian Stunts and began training a group of potential stuntmen and women for the re-emerging film industry. Eight of them are now famous Stunt Coordinators. Ian later became a documentary film producer, developed concepts, raised budgets and made several productions. In ‘79, he worked with the world’s greatest stuntman, Evel Knievel and his teenage son Robbie, on his Australian tour. In 1986 he had the adventure of a lifetime and, with three stunt friends, toured Poland performing their unique stunts. In 1991 Ian moved to Phuket to setup Tarzan’s Bungy Jump and soon after opened franchises in 6 other countries. By 2000 he had opened his second stunt school, work-

KARON’S ONLY LIVE BLUES VENUE

Live Music and BBQ in an “Outback Aussie Bar” setting. Phuket’s best Home Made Flame Grilled Aussie Burgers, Aussie Steak special’s, sizzling BBQ Ribs, Spit Roast Kebabs, Red Snapper Fish n Chips, Live Sports shown on 2 Big Screen LED TV’S, Free Pool Table, and More! Relax in an open air family friendly atmosphere with friendly staff, Great Food and frosty cold ones on ice from Australia & Thailand. Featuring “Moody Blues” Live on SUN, WED AND FRI From 9pm till Late at “Phuket’s House of the Blues - ROADHOUSE!”. 085 655 9008. roadhousephuket@gmail.com.

The Good Shepherd Merchandise Shop Open Every Wednesdays and Saturdays. Plaza Del Mar, Laguna (Behind Bake). Time: 10am to 1pm every Wednesday and 9am to noon every Saturday. We have a wide and wonderful selection of handicrafts such as toys, greeting cards, ornaments, lanterns, bags, purses and many more. You can also find exquisite arts and craft created by local residents. Pre-loved items include books, clothes and toys. Handicraft items are made by the disadvantaged members of society that The Good Shepherd strives to empower. All proceeds go directly to The Good Shepherd mission. See thegoodshepherd.info.

Indian Curry Night on Fridays Come to Navrang Mahal in Karon Sea Sands Resort & Spa for an authentic Indian Feast every Friday in Karon Beach. Try out our delicious naans, mutton vindaloo, chicken tandoori, dal makhini, butter chicken, samosas, lassis and many more mouth-watering dishes. For only 499/- nett and special reduced prices on drinks.

Suk Singpatong + Sitnumnoi

Pool Competition at Expat Hotel

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

It will happen every Saturday night throughout the year. Num Noi Singpatong, the head trainer and owner of Singpatong + Sitnumnoi Gym in Patong Beach, will be launching an elite fight series in Patong Boxing Stadium (Sai Nam Yen). Visit the official website at www.patong boxingstadium.com. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 15

List your event at thephuketnews.com

tion to the next, and don’t forget to leave room for cheese and dessert. With live Jazz music and a kids club, starting at B2,500++ per person including free flow of selected beverages. Advance bookings are highly recommended. Contact 076 372 400. fb-phuket@banyantree.com.

sauces, garlic bread, baked potatoes, potato salad and more for B325 per person. 7pm-11pm. Located in Patong on Rat-U-Tit 200 Pee Road next to Hotel Mercure.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 16

Half Chicken Spit Roast

Sunday Roast Pork@Expat Hotel Sunday Roast Pork or Beef Dinner Every Sunday 2pm onwards Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong B290. See www.expathotel.com.

Tuesdays and Saturdays: Half chicken spit roast with french fries, salad buffet, potato salad & gravy sauce for B225 per person. 7pm-11pm. Located in Patong on Rat-U-Tit 200 Pee Road next to Hotel Mercure.

WEDNESDAY FEB 19

BBQ Ribs All You Can Eat Sunday Brunch at Sails, Hilton Enjoy our lavish international buffet with friends and family each Sunday at Sails! Our live band sets the mood for a relaxing afternoon with delicious food, live cooking stations, refreshing drinks and good company. Balloon artists entertain the little ones with face painting and kid activities. 12pm - 3 pm. B1,400++ per adult, B700++ per child (Ages 5-12). 076 396 433.

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice of either roast beef, chicken, loin of pork or leg of lamb served with roast and boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Only B320 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See otools-phuket.com.

Phuket Walking Street

@thephuketnews

Wednesdays and Fridays. BBQ ribs all you can eat with salad buffet and potato salad for B295 per person. 7pm-11pm. Located in Patong on Rat-U-Tit 200 Pee Road next to Hotel Mercure.

Phuket Walking Street, “Laad Yai” is a Village & Community Development Potential Project (SML) of the “Old Phuket Town Community” in Laad Yai, Phuket Town. The visitors can enjoy the Old Phuket Town atmosphere which benefits the local economic growth in the Old Phuket Town community. Open every Sunday from BBQ Steak night 16.00 - 22.00Hrs. For more info visit faceEnjoy flame-grilled steak, cooked to perbook.com/phuketwalkingstreet or contact fection and served with fresh selections : 089-4745253 from our buffet BBQ night THB 1,190++ per person. Free children under 7 and half MONDAY FEBRUARY 17 price for 7 to 12 yrs old every Wednesday at Panache from 6.30 to 10.00 pm. For bookings, please call Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas on 076 336 900 # 781.

SUNDAY MARCH 2 Thai market night Experience an authentic taste of Thailand and simple a wide variety of dishes prepared fresh for you. Market night price is weight of chosen items every Monday at Ban Aroi from 6.30 - 9.00 pm. For bookings, please call Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas on 076 336 900 # 781.

Live Seafood & Jazz Sunday Brunch at Banyan Tree Join Banyan Tree’s indulgent LIVE Seafood Sunday brunch featuring lots of LIVE Canadian Lobsters, Tiger prawns, freshly shucked Oysters, Wagyu rump and Foie Gras. Meander from one live cooking sta-

Arena, Muang Thong Thani on 2 March, 2014. Ticket prices are 2,500/3,500/4,500 and 6,000 Baht and are available from January 12, 2014 at all Thaiticketmajor outlets. For more information, log onto www.thai ticketmajor.com and www.bectero.com..

SATURDAY MARCH 8

MINISTRY PARTY:LOVEONTHEBEACH

Following the huge success of the first two parties with MINISTRY OF SOUND, XANA is excited to announce a third, and last event this season, with the world’s biggest party brand. LOVE ON THE BEACH will have a special Valentine’s Day theme and will feature Ministry’s very own resident from London, Shane Patrick. www.xanabeachclub.com

EVENTS 19

BBQ All You Can Eat at Shakers Mondays and Thursdays. BBQ all you can eat: pork, chicken, beef, prawns, fish and squid with salad buffet, cold and hot

Thanyapura Superkidz The Thanyapura SUPERKIDZ is coming back for Triathlon (swim + bike + run) on 8th March 2014. We are dedicated to providing more excitement and competition for those athletes who are based in Asia, love the sport of triathlon, and have the heart to race and pursue achievement. Age group from 6-18 years old and adult. The race will be started at 8.00 am. Entry fee 1,500THB for individual and Team. For Thanyapura members is 1,200THB for individual and Team. To register call 076-336000 or sportcamp@thanyapura.com . Visit thanyapura. com for more information.

EVERY DAY

Phuket Wake Park The place for outdoor activities for the whole family. Ring winch for water skiing and wake-boarding. Reversible winch and coaching services for beginners. Restaurant, swimming pool, massage, fitness equipment and mini-hotel with 28 rooms. All this at Phuket Wake Park! Open from 7:30 to 22:00 every day.

Eric Clapton Live in Bangkok Legendary guitarist Eric Clapton is set to return to Thailand for Eric Clapton Live in Bangkok 2014 at Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani on 2 March, 2014. The rock god will be delighting fans with his catalogue of classic songs including Change the World, Layla, I Shot the Sherriff, Sunshine of Your Love, Blue Eyes Blue and many more. Clapton’s Thai fans can witness the return of the guitar god in Eric Clapton Live in Bangkok 2014 at Impact

Moe’s Jazz Trio Every Night Jazz at Boathouse, Special 4 courses Jazz set dinner on Friday nights. Ticket price THB1,500++. To make a reservation Tel:076-330-015-7 or e-mail:fb@ boathousephuket.com.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

20 TIME OUT

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

This week in history

GOT YOUR ISLAND VIEW NUMBER

Percentage of people who will yawn after reading the word ‘yawn’. (You did, didn’t you?)

7,500+

Number of different varieties of apples worldwide.

15:1

Ratio of chances of being killed by a falling coconut compared with chances of being killed by a shark.

27,000

Number of trees cut down every day to make toilet paper.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

■■ February 14, 269

The martyr St Valentine dies on Via Flamina outside Rome. That’s about all that is known about him. ■■ February 15, 1942 British, Indian and Australian troops defending Singapore surrender to Japanese forces. ■■ February 16, 1923 Archaeologist Howard Carter unseals the burial chamber of Pharaoh Tutankhamun. ■■ February 17, 1600 Dominican Friar Giordano Bruno is burned at the stake for heresy, after suggesting that the sun is just one of millions of stars. ■■ February 18, 1979 Snow falls in the Sahara Desert in southern Algeria for the only time in recorded history. ■■ February 19, 1878 Thomas Edison patents the phonograph, the first machine capable of recording sound. ■■ February 20, 1913 Australian politician King A red-whiskered bulbul waits for the start of a bird singing contest in Phuket. The winning bird is the one that sings the most O’Malley drives in the first times in a certain period. A lot of money rides on the outcome and top birds can be worth millions of baht. Photo: James Fergus survey peg to mark the start of work on the construction of the federal capital, Canberra. Have a Phuket photo to share? Email it with caption to editor@classactmedia.co.th Source: Wikipedia

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York requirement 68. Cheat 69. Indigenous 1. Buddhist temples Canadian 5. About 70. Sheet 10. Jackknife 71. Dances 14. Touch 15. Relating to a district 72. Key West native, informally 16. Computerphile 73. Brickbat 17. Real things 20. Loose talk? 21. Trial run, of a type Down 22. Nip partner 1. Witty ones 25. The facts of life? 2. Genesis brother 26. Island chain 3. Nickname for 29. Nonpareil football coach Bill 31. Woman’s hat Parcells 36. Fate 4. Dwarf 37. Innocent 5. Jail, slangily 39. Linen fabric 6. E.U. member 40. Really 7. Behind 44. Actor O’Shea 8. Chocolate 45. Chinese zodiac substitute animal 9. Language group 46. Part of i.p.s. 10. Way in or out 47. “Golf, ___?” 11. Archipelago part 50. Sojourn 12. Flashed signs 51. Cousin of calypso 13. At a previous 52. “___ De-Lovely” time 54. Court attention18. Lizard getter 19. Baal, e.g. 56. Turns into money 23. Veneer 61. Lively dance 24. Interlocks 65. Witness stand Across

SUDOKU

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1. Mile (Mille passus); 2. Wat Phra Tong in Thalang Town; 3. Lake Toba; 4. Borneo; 5. Philospher René Descartes

1. Which English word do we get from the Latin for ‘1,000 paces’? 2. Which Phuket wat has a Buddha half-buried in the floor? 3. Which Sumatran lake is in the caldera of a supervolcano? 4. Where would you find the Dayak people? 5. Who said, “Cogito ergo sum” (I think, therefore I exist)? Answers at the foot of the page.

26. Pack animal 27. Red dye 28. “Enchanted April” setting 30. Ties up 32. Broadway opening? 33. Shows approval 34. Diacritical mark 35. Accessory 38. Inspiration for poets and musicians 41. Jersey call 42. Sanction 43. Most fairylike 48. Like some decrees 49. Italian, e.g. 53. Musical notation 55. Coffee cup holders, in the Middle East 56. Impress clearly 57. Handel opera 58. Fast pace 59. Priests’ vestments 60. Jar 62. Break 63. Greek portico 64. Start of a break-in 66. Sot’s sound 67. Numerical ending

thephuketnews

CLASSIFIEDS 17

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Property PROPERTY FOR RENT

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Patong shophouse for Rent: Patong 2Shophouse low rent.Can make business,also very good location for restaurant and massage.2nd floor fully furnished as 2 bedroom apartment w 2baths.Includes furniture.Big kitchen and living area. Sidd , Email: janum0012@hotmail.com, 084 189 7696.

Rawai Pool Villa For Sale:

The Cour tyard:

Upper f loor 10 m showroom frontage floor area 10 0 s m w i t h a i r/c o n s . C o nt a c t Khun Siriporn 081 691 0213, sirip orn@islandfurniture - phuket.c om, www.thecourtyard-phuket.com.

ACG Cricket Ground:

5 Rai raw land behind ACG clubhouse on long lease for compatible sporting facility. alan@acgphuket.com.

NEW FURNISHED 3 BED VILLA: Brand New Fully Furnished Modern 3Bed/3.5Bath V illa, Pr ivate G arden, Po ol & Garage. 5 min to Ao Po Grand Marina & Mission Hills Golf Course, 10 min to Thanyapura Contact 0818935270 (En/Fr), srdupouy@ gmail.com, 081 893 5270

Seaview Pool Villa for Rent:

Kalim Sea View, Freehold Condo for Sale/Rent: B11.9 Nice Villa For Sale:

4 Bedroom/4Bathroom detached villa on 164Sq.Wah with swimming pool. Superb location between ChalongPhuket Town. 9.75 Million Baht. Call for appointment to view. 9.75 MB , Person : George , Email : glinsay47@gmail.com 089 868 5143.

M 2 min walk to beach, big balcony & sunset view, 180 Sqm, 2 Ensuite Bed rooms, big living space. 089 617 2312, PhuketAREA.com - Search V146.

2 Bed villa with lovely garden, koi pond, pool with sala/ 3rd bed and seaview. Fully furnished, True visions on 42" screen, WiFi, new ACs. Private, quiet area but near all amenities. Call 086 279 6283.

Share Seaview Villa Phuket: Offer to Share Quiet and

Kata Beach Apartment Sea Views: Western 1,2&3 bedroom

NOW OPEN!!

Amazing sea view pool villa: 4 bed,4 bath,beautifully furnished villa, great ocean views. Cape Yamu area, only 10 mins from BIS/PIA. Large pool, garden, very private estate. 80000/ mth. 086 279 6283; kdesmond59@ yahoo.co.uk.

bathroom, Chanote (Freehold), Land area 402.80M2 Living area 208 M2. Luxurious one-storey villa offers privacy and features your own garden and pool to enjoy the ambiance of outdoor tropical living. Fully furnished, large kitchen with built-in basin, stove, and cabinets. Private and Peaceful area. oliver@thurmanngroup.com, 087 877 2320.

Bougainvillea Pool Villa Phuket: Discover the happiness

Safe SEAVIEW VILLA PHUKET Rent out self-contained, furnished living & sleeping sections. I am German, recently widowed and looking for a Female live-in companion over 50. Email:azzuro2000@gmail.com

I N T H E N AT U R E RO M A N T I C THAI - ST YLE RESORT Daily 2 0 0 0 T h b, We e k l y 12 0 0 0 T h b, Monthly 44000Thb Included: Daily room cleaning, Linen changing once/week, Internet Wi-Fi, Cable TV, Smart TV, Electricity, Free bicycle, BBQ grill, Exes to Cinema room. www.coco-palace.com, Email : namphung@andamanhorizon.asia ,Phone : 087 877 2320.

3 BR LUX POOLVILL A IN NAIHARN: 3 bedroom 3

Condo in Marina:

Last 1 Studio of The Cleat condo (Phase 1) in Krabi Boat Lagoon, low-rise waterfront Condo built around the lagoon with Mangrove, Sea and Marina view and full facilities. Call +66(0)76 238 948.

units fully furnished, parking fully fitted teak kitchens. Granite tops Western baths, sat.TV&internet included. Masterbed with ensuite bath starting 20,000/m longterm. No party people. 084 840 1262, north8east98@yahoo. com.

House for rent:

Three bedroom, one bathroom, lock up garage, carport, on 1/2 Rai of land, 10 min from, P.I.A, beach and airport. Contact 081 892 4804 for more information.

OCEAN VIEW VILLA FOR RENT: Large 5/6, 6 bathroom villa, large gym, pool, spa & more, Best views, Close to schools, Fully furnished, Min. 12 mths. For sale 48M Baht or Rent 165K per month. visit: w w w.baanparagone.com. B165K , Mark Bloxwich, Mai Promwong, 56/4 M.4 Baan Para, Paklock, Thalang, Phuket, mark@bloxwich.me; mai@ bizbiotech.com, 083 392 0077 or 081 956 2014.

Freehold 2 bed villa in Laguna: Laguna Residences, Outrigger, 2 bedroom END unit villa. FREEHOLD title!With lifetime golf membership in Laguna Golf Club and privilage card with 50% discount in Laguna restaurants and spa. Fully Furnished! Selling price : 12.950.000,- Baht Please call 080 041 4464 or email : Rental1386@ gmail.com.

PREMIUM: PAY ONCE PER MONTH B2,799+VAT. PAY ONCE PER MONTH WILL RUN ONLINE FOR 30 DAYS AND IN 4 ISSUES OF THE PRINT EDITION PER MONTH. *INCLUDES 1 PICTURE IN THE PAPER AND 10 PICTURES ONLINE.

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GRAND VIEW CHALONG BAY: VILL A & L A N D: 3 bed

WRITE YOUR CLASSIFIED Headline:

Beautiful Villa 550sqm. Land 2,400 sqm. with 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, maid's room, laundry room, home of f ice, Western kitchen. Large mature garden, garage for 2 cars Price B32 million. Call 081 978 5181. www.myrawaivilla.com

4 bed,4 bath,beautifully furnished villa, great ocean views. Cape Yamu area, only 10 mins from BIS/PIA . Large pool,garden, very private estate. 80000/mth. 0862796283; kdesmond59@yahoo.co.uk.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Villa on 1 rai reduced now18MB: Private big 4 bed-

room, 4 bath room, 2 livingroom, 1 dinningroom, 1 kitchen (american style), 1 garage (2 cars), 1 swimming pool (10x4), 1 bed room for a maid, 1 bath room for a maid, Internet, Security 24/24, Sea view and jungle view, Total sqm 556.92, Total land sqm 581,4.24MB, a.p e ll e gr in o2810 @ gm ai l.c o m, 084 241 3387.

Land for sale: 2 rai of land in the South of Phuket. Unique location on the hills between Naiharn and Rawai, 5 mins from the beach. Panoramic view on Chalong bay and Naiharn. Easy access via private road, reputable neighborhood (German village), tropical forest. Ready project for a 3 storey villa. 3200 sq. m. Call Svetlana 086 743 4657 or Alexander +7 926 914 5555, oxum@mail.ru; samat2011@yandex.ru, Price : 18.5 million for 1 rai .

room Villa near mission hills golf with guest house and maids quarter. All ensuite bathrooms. big swimming pool 8x12M, garage for 2 cars, koi ponds, European kitchen, 2x home cinema etc (price was 25MB!!) infomissionhill@gmail.com 083 643 8384.

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Kamala Pool Villa:

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Plots for sale in Rawai:

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Online upgrades:

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House for sale:

Cherntalay area, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, ceiling fans all through out, 2 air con units, furnished. 2.7MB, no offers. For more info - Farang - 080 323 1918, Thai 081 607 9874.

FOR SALE. 3 plots of 250-300 sq.m each in Rawai suitable for building villas. In a quiet street and good location. Can be sold all together or separately. Contact Izzy 086 278 8300 or Danai 090 170 0429.

Large 3 Bedroom house in mature estate offering high security. (Option to build 4th bedroom)Located in a peacefull no thru road, min’s from beach. Recently renovate, available for immed move in. Chanote title, Price 12.5 MB Call 087 078 9707 Email: kiwigolfpro@outlook.com.

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Family resort for sale.:

PHUKET’S ONLY RUSSIAN NEWSPAPER (FREE TRANSLATION TO RUSSIAN) B1,699+VAT.

DEADLINE: MONDAY 11.59PM (MIDNIGHT) FOR THAT WEEKS ISSUE Hand this in at agent shops, our office or fax: 076 612 553 @thephuketnews

Sale Patong Guesthouse 出售巴东宾馆: First spacious&clean MODERN HOUSE IN KATA: Designed house, modern look, 4 bedroom, big dinnerplace, kitchen, pool, sauna, washerroom, elevator ,close to Kata Beach, quiet area. Contact Cookie for more info 088 450 0463.

guesthouse downhill in Patong. 36MB. Close to the main road to Patong beach. 由业主提供公寓巴东由业主，宾馆在巴东。全装修的二十五间客房，36 意泰珠。靠近巴东海滩。Ramon0856-44-9344 ramonbencharitiwong@gmail.com.

Beautiful lakeview family resort in quiet area.4 apartments with each 2 bedrooms fully furnished, land include 1600sqm, company and license include, swimmingp ool, 2 garage, automatic gate and very private estate.More details please c o nt ac t 0 8 8 3 912 2 6 5 (Engli sh speaking). krisverstricht@hotmail. com.

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PROPERTY IN PHUKET PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

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Urg e n t 2 N ew A p a r tments For Sale: Because

of divorce URGENT RE-SALE 2 brand new apartments. Welcome real buyers No agents. Call on +66 (0) 87 269 2274, Chrismar.

For Sale 2 villas with this view

3 Gorgeous Lots, Clean Titles: For sale or long lease.

2 lots on island-beachfront (bungalow-/housing-estate) and 1 big mainland-mountain property all in very quiet, safe, well maintained locations near Krabi. 089 291 4671.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

3 Bed Pool Villa Pa Khlok:

Situated at Ao Por, 2 modern contemporary villas. Infinity pool, 3 bedrooms, 4 bahtrooms, study, large living area, terrace and covered parking for 2 cars. Priced from 24 MB. info@thecurvephuket.com, www.thecurvephuket.com.

3 Beds, 2 Bath 6x3m pool. Full aircon and funishings. Ready for occupation and rental. Secure estate, private parking. 6km from Heroines monument. Close to PIA, BCS and shops. 081 737 0722.

Beachfront Condo in Cape Panwa: Two floors 282 sq. m of

living space with stunning views. 3 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms + Study + large kitchen. Fully furnished. Communal 40m pool 5 steps away. Beach 15 steps! 091 876 2330.

Sea View Off Plan Condominiums: 65m2 Condominium. 1

Sin g l e H o u se Sp e c i a l Price Rent/Sale: Nice house

fully furnished with teakwood furniture, ready to move in. 240 sqm. 4 bed 4 bath, close to Kathu waterfall and market. Near Loch Palms, major stores, BIS and KIS. B45,000 per month. Call Oranwan 086 883 3169.

Bedroom, 1 En Suite Bathroom, Living Room, Kitchen, Pool, Large Balcony and Terrace Space, Parking. Excellent investment opportunity. www.propertyforsalephuket.co.uk.

Patong Condo for sale: A nice foreign freehold condominium for sale in Patong is located in a recently complete development of one & two bedrooms condominiums. Located on the fourth floor of a total of five. 080 052 8082.

Building 3 storey for sale:

THB 26,000,000. Only 300 m. from Kata Beach. 236.25 sqm. 2 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. For more information call K.Chavarin 089 911 8833/081 866 9253 or email: wkongkeaw@hotmail.com.

G re at inve st m e nt o p p o r tunit y i n P a t o n g . I h a v e 2 N E W LY RENOVATED c ondos in same complex near Simon Cabaret. Both condos fully funished + free hold. Condo no.1 4th floor studio unit 50sqm already rented out. Condo no.2 just funished renovation 3rd floor 1 bedroom 50sqm every thing brand new. This one never use and could be your residence plus earn income from other condo.Complex has huge pool + garden and 24 hrs. security. I want 5 MB for both. Eng 085 471 9246 Thai 087 621 3405.

pool 6 house is two bedrom kitchen private laundry place 2 house is t h r e e b e d r o m k i tc h e n p r i vate laundry Aircon in all romms. Fully funitures 5 Min from Chalong circle about 2 rai land Price reduced from 28 milj, B24,500,000 ,Hakan, Chafa road, landchalong@gmail.com , 085 789 1773 .

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

Rawai Soi Saliga Land for Sale: Land for sale, Soi Saliga

Rawai - 1 rai plus 81 T/W. Telephone 089 645 5049.

LUXURY 3 BR IN 4 STAR R E S O R T: 3 b e d r o o m 4

E XCLUSI VE UNI QUE R ESO RT W I TH L A N D:

4 s e p a r a t e b u i l d i n g s w i t h 11 dif ferent c ustom maid ro oms, restaurant /cafeteria in a sweet and idyllic sanctuar y for the sense. Surrounded by lush green mountains and tropical forest. The Resort is an oasis of natural beauty and only a couple of minutes walking to beautiful Naiharn beach! Location Soi Naya PRICE 33.3 MB, o l i ve r @ t h u r m a n n g r o u p.c o m , 087 877 2320.

bathroom, Land area 580 m2., Spacious living quarterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feature open plan living & dining areas, a fully equipped, open-concept gourmet kitchen. The Villa comes fully furnished, Contemporary and expansive indoor and outdoor living spaces are offered, private pool. Services as Restaurant, Gym, Spa ,Maintenance ,Security and Maid. 19.8 MB, oliver@thurmanngroup. com, 087 877 2320.

For Sale-Beachfront land@ Naka: 2 rai of absolutely amazing beachfron. A few minutes by boat to Phuket. Facing west to the sunset and views of Phuket. Contact: 086 278 8300 or Danai 090 1700 429.

Sales Down Payment Dcondo Mine: 7th floor. with

pool & lake view. Fully furnished, near Kajonkiet International School, Tesco Lotus, Big C. 10 mins to Patong. Move in Mar 2014. Only B99k. Contact: 081 694 4144, 081 307 7247, email: suthipow@yahoo.com

Freehold house for sale in estate in Cherng Talay. Land 735m2, floor area 230m2, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom. Many upgrades incl new carport included. Price B11 million. Call 083 509 8797 for info or viewing.

Beautiful Karon Villa:

Modern open living villa has it all, fully furnished, private secure estate close to beach. Enjoy the private salt water pool and undercover parking, 3 large bedrooms freehold investment. 081 719 4688.

Luxury Villa for Rent: Magnifi-

Nice resort 8 house with pool: Nice resort 8 houses with

Patong Free Hold Condo:

Freehold House for sale:

cent 4 bedroom pool villa on the west coast of Phuket, above prestigious Kata Beach. Exceptional opulence throughout. Long & short term rental. Enquiries on 087 283 8884 or 080 690 5248.

Luxury Villa in Chalong: Perfect condition, 660 sqm on 3 levels, 1,600 sqm land, 5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, swimming pool 12.5m x 6m with jacuzzi, large sala, double garage. Top quality construction. Reduced price: B25.5 million www.tamata-phuket.com crishausb@hotmail.com. 086 271 3260 or 086 273 4149.

2.5 rai (N.S.-3 K document) near Kathu waterfall. 2 houses, 1 small house & 2 pools, big garage. 3 way Entrance. B28 million. Call 081 893 0540, 076 385 775 email: anong540@hotmail.com.

the best will do!!!!4 bed/pool villa in Phukets best kept gated community.410 sq.mtr villa.812 sq.mtr land.Overlooking lagoon.Beautiful.Ph: 0812704291. or thailandmls@gmail.com. Price 22.5 MB.

3 & 4 Bed Pool Villas:

Laguna / Layan. Luxur y pr ivate pool villas in secure development. Available now. All beds ensuite. Fully furnished. Rental programme available. B12-20 million. Contact owner: 085 549 7110.

2 Pool Villas next to PIA:

Ready to move in, villa 1 on 1,100 sqm. land, for sale B15.9 mil and villa 2 on 2,20 0 sqm. land, for sale B19.9 mil. Brand new, each with 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 12 metre swimming pool, guest bungalow with 1 bedroom 1 bathroom. Perfectly located in a development with underground e l e c t r i c i t y a n d s e c u r i t y, o n l y 80 0 metres from Mission Hills golf course, less than 10 mins to airpor t, Phuket International Ac ademy and Ao Por Grand Marina. Call 081 343 0777. Email: montha_phuket@yahoo.com.

Home Office Near Thanyapura: New 2-storey home

office near Academy for sale, 280 sq metres, Chanote title, 2 beds 3 baths, nature mountain view. Main street, multiple entrances and exits. 10 minutes to Airport. Only B4.95 million. Call: 086 948 2294.

Land & House Park, Chalong: Villa for sale, 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, 1 Kitchen, 1 Living room, Fully furnished and equipped, Garden 240 SQM. B6.8 M Tel. 083 394 4536(Eng) /084 443 5389(Thai/Eng) flaviofurlanis@yahoo.it.

Land Close to Thanyapura/PIA: Half Rai 1.3MB, 1

Rai is 2.5 MB, total 3 Rai of Land, Mountain View, Chanote, 3 Mins drive to Thanyapura/PIA School, 15 Mins to Airport. Contact Marisa 084 305 6667 or marisar1978@ hotmail.com.

250m road frontage near Bypass: 16 rai next to Phumundra,

behind Premium Outlet. 250m road frontage, 300m deep. Sloping upwards, starting at 15m and ending at 65m above sea level. 6M/rai. Contact owner direct at 081 893 6630.

Seaview Land Patong: Two parcels of superior land 11 rai. Inc seaview. Main road frontage. Ideal for resor t or condominiums. B150 M . N e g o t i a b l e . ( T h a i ) 0 81 3 7 0 8114 or (Ger) 081 892 1108. Email: davidgem98@hotmail.com.

Af fordable 3 Bedroom House: Single floor, 3 bedroom, Land & House for sale:

Nai Harn Baan Bua: When only

Modern Villa in Marina: A spacious family home in Boat Lagoon. Modern contemporary style with 4+1 beds, 4 bathrooms. Large dining area, private swimming pool and fully furnished. 29.5 MB. Size 616 Sq.M. Call 076 238 948.

kitchen/dining area, living room, 2 toilets/showers. Aircon in each b e d r o o m . W a t e r t a n k+ p u m p . External covered area. Chanote title: 256 sqm Quiet developed village near Heroines Monument B3.2 million. Call 087 276 0529 .

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

Villa with Pool for Sale: Freehold 3/4 Bedroom Villa. 3 Air Con. 4k. to Ao Makarm Beach. 10x5m pool with 4th bedroom / office on other side. Plot size 104Sq Wah. 416Sqm. Reasonable offers. Call 089 831 4703/084 304 6723.

Villa on 1 rai reduced now 20MB: Private big 3 bedroom

villa near Mission Hills golf with guest house and maids room all ensuite bathroom, big swimming pool 8x12M, big garage for 2 cars, koi ponds, European kitchen, 2x home cinema etc. Price 25MB, infomissionhill@gmail.com , 083 643 8384.

Rawai Seaview Condo for sale: Seaview condo, freehold, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 120sqm. B7.8 million, fully furnished. For more pictures and information please contact: adrian_troy@yahoo.com

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CLASSIFIEDS 19

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

PROPERTY IN PHUKET

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

House for Sale - Chalong:

Cheapest Seaview land for Sale: Panorama view of sea view

Hou se on Th e Co r n er for Sale: Quiet location and

only 500m from the main road. Thepkrasattri, Heroines Monument. 70sqw x 280sqm, 3 bedrooms, 2 b at h r o o m s, b i g li v i n g r o o m with open-plan kitchen (9x9m),1 separated kitchen, carpark for 3 cars and a small storehouse, 2 aircons, cable TV, 1 phone line TT&T. Price: 2.7 MB. including furnitures. Must See! jochenschmitz16@gmail.com, 081 607 8000.

golf course view mountain view land for sale. Near Mission Hills Golf course. 6 rai chanote title. B3 million per rai. 087 675 9555, email: pee_bang56@ hotmail.com.

Quiet stand alone villa, 3 bed, 2 - 5 star baths, 5 aircon, full furn, garden dining lush green, 50 Wah, quality new paint, excellent condition, B3.5 million, firm. Contact: peterb@inter globalau.com, 084 843 3492.

25 year lease for sale. Well situated in fast developing and sought after area close to Laguna. Some fixed rent applies. Contact 087 884 0644 for more info.

The Aqua pool villa-sales/ rent: In Land & House Park Phuket

(Manthana Zone) Land area = 440 sqm. Home area = 300 sqm. 3 bedrooms 4 bathrooms 1 living room and kitchen 1 swimming pool (3m*10m) out door jacuzzi and pavilion Sales: from 1112.8MB. Rent: from 85,000 - 120,000 B/Month. 088 751 2389.

2 Rai, Cherngtalay: 3 Rai Chanote Mangosteen Land: Beautiful square land plot next to Mangosteen Resort, 3-0-38 Rai, Chanote title, light slope, great access to Soi Saiyuan, show villa can be completed, ideal for villa or condo development. 081 536 5846.

Land for Sale: 400m from Naiyang Beach. 3 Rai 1 Tarangwah. 6.5MB per Rai. Call 087 091 8331 or email chiangmaibeltrade@hotmail. com for more information.

Resort for Sale: Resort 2 rai, with

chanote. 22 double villas with kitchens, large pool and big coconut garden with own well. Restaurant and bar with satellite TV and Adsl. Opened for 15 years, with lots of repeat customers, parking, quiet. 086 940 1860.

Beach Land on Koh Yao Yai: Price Reduced, 4beds Villa: Sea-View Chalong-Residence: Dream pool villa with 5

bedrooms all with ensuite on 1 rai of land. Big hall, office, maid’s room. Brand-new construction opposite Wat Chalong on the way up to the hill. A huge 685 sq.m of living area, fully furnished. Modern Europeandesigned kitchen. Big sea view pool terraces incl sala and attractive bar area. Security alarm system. Selling price on request. By owner directly. Call 085 654 4011 or 089 404 0737. Email: schulz.th@gmx.de.

Patong Tower for Sale:

Comfor table 4 bedrooms villa, plus maid room. Approx. 450Sq.M building, corner plot, energy saving, management ser vice available for investor.Located in secured gate community, near British International school. info@mindproperties.net.

Mai Khao Prime Location Land: I will sell my piece of land

Patong Apartment Reduced Price: Condo 4 years old. Swimming

pool, security 24/7, cafeteria. Studio 46sqm fully furnished. Freehold for foreigners. Price: 2.6MLN. Urgent sale, no agent. Tel: 089 728 4005. Email: thamad17@yahoo.com.

ing views of Chalong Bay, mountain views and Big Buddha. Two bedrooms, 310 sq.m of spacious living area and balconies. Contact Izzy 0862788300 or Danai 090 170 0429. Sales - down payment 250,000 B D Condo Mine Phuket Town by Sansiri. Finished in March 2014.Corner room on the 7th floor with nice view. 2 Bedrooms Call:089 159 3239.

Sales - D Condo Mine:

PAT O N G c o n d o s f o r sale: Beautiful, modern Condos/

Apartments, furnished, best/quiet locations, garden, s-pool, from 36-67sq metre, sea-city-mountain views, from B2,375. Call 087 819 2162 or caltirol@hotmail.com.

D E TA C H E D O R S E M I DETACHED: Large detached 4

Bed.4 Bath 2 en suite, 4 air con. OR 2 adjoining semi-detached. Live in one, Rent one ? Water storage with pumps. Secure Parking. Quite Soi. All in Excellent condition. B3.5M. kimera5@yahoo.com 082 738 3007.

House and Business for sale: 3 storey, 5 bedrooms, good

location, off road parking, busy road. Contact Thai 084 630 6920, English 082 534 7410, jeedyvcd@hotmail.com, davidweath@yahoo.com.

Khao Sok, 25+ rai, B400,000 per rai: 25 rai, 3 ngan in Khao Sok, Klong Sok district. B400,000 per rai. Close to Khao Sok National Park entrance. PNSS3 title, to be upgraded to Chanote soon. Phone 081 693 2759.

@thephuketnews

New House for Sales low price than Project, Phanason Villages at Bang Joe for 50 Sqm, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Free contract. Contact: 089 729 9503.

New House for Sales:

This luxury three bedroom home is located in a secure estate with security and office. It is only five minutes from Bangtao Beach and Laguna Phuket including the Laguna Phuket Golf Club and 20 minutes from Blue Canyon Country Club and Phuket International Airport. The villa comes fully furnished with luxury leather lounge suites and quality furniture, all bedding, kitchen utensils and cooking facilities. For details and inspection, see www. phuketselect.com or contact graham@ phuketselect.com or call 081 897 0225.

2 baths, large living and dining room, 4 X aircons, 2 X car ports and garage. House 7 yrs 1 owner , well maintained with 135sqm living area. Land Chanote 92tw. 3.5MB 081 737 3116.

A big beautiful house with 7 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, fully furnished. Located in stunning panoramic hilltop scenery in Takuapa, Phang Nga, covering an area of 127 rai. Surrounded by fertile farmland with fruit trees. Price 96MB. Contact K. Peerawat: 08 4 308 8484. Email: peerawat002@hot mail.co.th

Three floor villa for sale: New house for sale: At Siri Village, Pa Khlok, 2 flrs, 3 beds, 2 shower rms, kitchen, living & dining area, garden, car park, 2 aircons, unstair curtains, 1 furnished bedroom. 3.8MB Contact Kirana 088 760 6083.

Pool Villa Rawai: 4 Bedroom/ 4 Bathroom European style single storey house with self contained guest house and pool in Rawai on 736m2 plot. Large master bedroom with en-suite, walk in wardrobe. Modern western style kitchen with granite tops, built-ins throughout. Established 7 years. Plenty of outdoor living area with several verandahs and under cover car park, air-conditioning in all bedrooms and lounge. Situated about 2km from Chalong circle in a quiet lane 1km from Viset Road. House & Guest house 180 sqm Land area 736sqm (184TW). 3 bedrooms Master ensuite, 4 Bathrooms 7x3.5m salt water pool. Electric gate. Well water. Concrete road access. Call 087 891 9349.

Luxury 3 Bed Villa For Sale:

3 Bdrm House for sale Thalang: House for sale. 3 bed and

Villa and farmland for sale:

Seaview Land For Sale: Land located right in the heart of Chalong with panorama view of Chalong pier. Close to a number of sandy beaches; Naihan Rawai Kata and Karon. Easy access to major depar tment stores. Surrounded by public facilities including education institutes and hospitals. You will benefit from a perfect location that's rapidly increasing in value. 3 rai and 1 Ngan with Chanote title. Call 087 278 7206, 089 215 5041 e -mail: kubesjoy@ hotmail.com.

House for sale: Baan Manik area, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, ceiling fans all through out, 2 aic con units, furnished. 2.7MB, no offers. For more info - Farang - 080 323 1918, Thai 081 607 9874.

next to the new tourist attraction in Mai Khao. Perfect for investment in future like shops, guesthouse. Please email for mobile number and more details. ohmidzi@gmail.com.

FOR SALE Penthouse in Rawai: 360 panoramic breathtak-

And for rent. Sea view and mountain views. Freehold from 64 to 448 sq metres. Phone no: 080 692 6114. Email: orsoreal estate@hotmail.com.

6.26 rai direct beachfront, power, water, road, unobstructed views, chanote title, white sand, peaceful. Only 5.8 mil baht per rai. Doesn't get much better than this! Beautiful beach land. 081 649 3557.

Brand new three floor villa on Phuket, near Villa Market. Glass elevator, swimming pool, ocean view. 700 sq. m. Freehold contract available. Current price: 13m THB. Please call Alexander 080 521 0736.

12 Rai Chanote to sell: One of the last pieces of beautiful sea view land between Ao Makham and Ao Yon Road. Infrastructure done B210 million. Call 081 917 0377, 10am-5pm.

Luxury Condo Rent / Sale:

Seaview Townhouse Patong: Bet ween the c it y and

the jungle at the northern edge of Patong. 70m alt. 10mn walk to the beach. 4 storey + 290 sqm, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 1 toilet. 4 aircon, partly furnished. Email: andamanhills@gmail.com.

Budget Bungalows:

Two Bungalows in Chalong.2-3 bedrooms.Close to all amenities. One has room for a pool,the other is like a rain forest. From only 2,300,000 Baht.Ph:0812704291. Email: thailandmls@gmail.com.

2 B e d r o o m , L- r o o m a n d f u l l y equipped kitchen, 160 -212sqm. Very high standard with a nice view. Big balcony, swimming pool, gym. Location: Kathu, 10 min. Patong Beach, 5 min. Phuket Town and all department stores and international hospitals. Rent Long term: B45,000 – B63,50 0 Buy: B8,50 0,0 0 0 – B11,500,000. Contact 086 268 7901 or send e-mail to: condophuket@ yahoo.com.

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PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

House in Phuket Town / Samkong 3 bedroom, 3 bathrooms Beautiful Naiharn Pool Villa:

New Luxury Villa For Sale: Lu xu r i o u s G o l f V i l l a @ Laguna Village: MUST BE SOLD ! Surplus to family invest needs. 3-bed, plus maid's qtrs. This home has been lovingly cared for. Leasehold/freehold. BVI status. POA. Ph 082 810 4184, phuketres@gmail.com

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

3 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, living room, kitchen, private swimming pool (12 metre). House area of 600 sq.m., land 1.5 rai (2400 sq metre). Located on the shore of the ocean on the Koh Kho Khao. larion2555@ gmail.com. 084 226 4574.

Modern Family House for sale: Beautiful 3 bedrooms villa in

Secure private hillside by Naiharn Beach. Quality furnished throughout. 3 big bedrooms, office, 4 baths, 230 sm plus carport etc. 1050 sm land. New condition. 15x4.6 m pool. Freehold. Nice. Only 17.5MB. Contact 089 727 5407, villa-sale-phuket.com.

Rawai. 160sqm indoor. 400sqm outdoor. Shared swimming pool. Modern villa renovated in 2011-2012. Fully furnished. For more info: phuketvilla jasmine@gmail.com

Conveniently located 5 minutes from all amenities including both international hospitals, Central Festival, international schools and the centre of town. Selling due to relocation. Priced to sell at 4.3 M THB including 4 air cons and all modern style furniture. Nothing more to spend. Contact (English): 084 768 0536 or (Thai): 085 888 0502

Apartment on Golf Course:

Hot Price Sale- PuriAnda Villas: New Pool Villa in Rawai 2 Bed/3 Bath, Built-In & Partial fur. Private pool & jacuzzi, sala, 50 0 m.to beach Price 7.9 mil.Baht with Chanote title Tel.081 691 3029, E: kris. silanachai@yahoo.com.

Seaview 1 BDRM New Condo Patong: Stunning seaview,

4 plots (3 connecting, 1 separate) 1km north of Airport, along the road to MaiKhao Beach. Sea view towards south east. NorSor3Gor. 4.5 Rai in total. B4 million per Rai. Contact owner: 081 893 6630.

SeaView near Airport:

city view 1 bdrm condo on hill 500m from Patong beach. Fitness centre, roof top pool, security, car park, freehold. Only B4,400,000. Keith 084 628 3430, keithb025@gmail.com.

Investment Proper t y for sale!: New, modern waterfront townhome at the Boat Lagoon for sale. Rented out long term at B570,000 per year. 3 bed/4 bath, 2 balconies, terrace at canal, 6 m berth in front of house. 250 sqm living space. Top condition. Luxury finishings. Brokers welcome. B9.9 million. 086 747 9292 (English) or 081 970 5204 (Thai/English).

Donsak Beachfront Land 3 Rai: 67 metres absolute beach

frontage, fully infrastructured, ready to build. Close to ferry going to Koh Samui. Chanote title. 4.5 MB for all. Email: nhoj0512@hotmail.com.

Land area 500m2, House area 164m2. 3 bed, 4 bath, fully furnished, aircon in all rooms, fans, Internet, satellite TV, swimming pool, independent water supply wells. Finish work December 2012. B8.5 million. Call 088 838 3242.

Free Hold Condo For Sale:

43 Sq. Free hold. 1 balcony (Great view). 1 bed room. 1 living room. 2 air conditioners. Full furniture. Internet.Swimming pool. Gym. Automated door lock and key card. Call 080 040 9077.

Serenity near the Beach,Chumpon: 210 sq.M

160m2 Private Pool Villa. 3 Bedroom, 4 Bathroom (3 En Suite), Kitchen, Dining Room, Living Room, Large Balconies & Terrace, Carport. Freehold, Chanote title. 2 minutes from beach! See proper tyforsalephuket.co.uk.

Sea-View Contemporary Pool Villla: Located near Phuket

town. L and: 8 5 5 sq.m. H ouse: 650sq.m. Furnished. 3 beds, 2 offices, 2 staff quarters, 1 free room. 2 Parkings. Price B38 mill.Tel: 081 895 3628 E-mail: jin_koy@yahoo.com.

Reduced for Quick Sale:

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

contemporary 2 story house,pool.400 M. to ThungWualen.Situated in a green belt of jungle,palm plantations,10 mins walk to the beach No traf fic jams.Chanote title.Total 2648 sq.M., Email : chitsamon@hotmail.com , Phone : 083- 391 4405.

3 Bedroom Pool Villa, Rawai:

Home For Sale By Owner:

One level 3 Bdr,2 Bath,fully equipped kitchen, set in private, secure surroundings and conveniently located as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just a 5 minutes drive to the BIS international school.Community Pool. Email : robert.anthony.krause@gmail. com, 084 851 9795.

Sea View Land for Sale:

Ao-Yon, 13.5 rai, chanode title.10m/ rai.Call Siri 089 649 9939, email: siri_phuket@changrunner.com.

Mission Heights:

Golf View, Kathu. Tastefully renovated large (83m2) apartment in Phuket Country Club. Golf view. 1 bed but easily converted to 2. Store, large Western kitchen and all furniture included. Ideal (holiday) home. Contact 081 273 7326, Email: keith marshall747@gmail.com.

Furnished House for Sale Phuket Villa 5: 3 bedroom

furnished house near Kajonkiet School. Secure area, Cul De Sac. Nic e gardens, t wo bathrooms. B3.5M negotiable. Call 081 370 8114 (Thai) 087 889 3838 (Eng), email:davidgem98@hotmail.com.

Sea View Land for Sale: Ao Makham. 5.5 rai, B10 million per rai. Contact Siriporn 089 649 9939, email: siri_phuket@changrunner.com.

1.5 Rai Private Land Cape Yamu: 1.5 Rai flat land at Cape

Yamu. 2 x 0.75 Rai adjoining plots. OrBorTor road access to quiet end of soi location. Sale direct from the owner. B3.75 Million per rai negotiable. Call 081 087 9237.

Condo At The Heights, Kata: Immaculate 2-bed foreign-

freehold unit in award-winning project. 195 sqm, sea view, near gym & pool. Quality furnishing throughout. Designer kitchen with utility-store. phuket.pn@gmail.com.

Beaut iful L and L aguna Cher ngt alay: Chanote t it le, yellow zoned, save area. Nearly 4 rai, direct from owner. Subdivided i n 6 p l o t s e a c h c a . 1, 0 0 0 s q m . ready to build. Only 7.5 MB per rai. K hun Chanc hira, 0 81 3 67 76 8 3. chanchira.panpaen@googlemail.com.

Laguna/Layan Beach Luxury 13M Salt-Water Pool Villa For Sale (Or Rent): Three large

bedrooms with bathrooms in tastefully re-decorated bungalow set in mature garden plot of 550m2 within secure development for ownership and/or investment. B15.5 million. Email: irynain@gmail.com.

Land for Sale Cherngtalay:

Ocean Front Villa for Sale:

206.4 sqm, Chanote title in Phanason residence(next to Makro). 1 min to Central festival, 5 min to town. Call 084 061 4314, 076 393 965.

Land for sale:

Happy Home Apartment for sale: Nice apartment, fully

furnished at Rawai. The apar tment is set in a private compound with pool. It is located only 5 minutes from beach and convenient to Phuket Town. Only B15 million. Tel: 081 893 2165 www.happyho meapartmentphuket.webiz.co.th.

Luxury brand new villa, fully furnished and ready to move in, 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms with infinity 10 metre long swimming pool and truly beautiful sea view. Located in a small development, only 50 metres from the sea and 3 mins from Ao Po Grand Marina. For sale B19.9 million or for long term rent B150,000 per month. Call 081 343 0777, email: montha_phuket@ yahoo.com.

Spac ious one bed room apar tment with ocean view, nor th of Patong. Floor area 96m2 internal and 72m2 terrace including water feature with sala and jacuz zi. Per fect bachelor pad with rental income. Email for info: bart duykers@mac.com.

For sale:

Pool villa for sale or rent:

Beautiful 2,400sqm (1.5RAI) Chanote titled land plot in Pasak 8, located on the highest point of a gentle slope. Quiet and safe area. Only 8.5MB. Agents welcome. Phuketlandvilla@ hotmail.com, 089 875 9609.

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

Beautiful Karon Villa: Stunning,

safe, secure estate villa , close to beach, crystal clear salt water pool 3 large bedrooms, modern open living, fully furnished, freehold, everything done â&#x20AC;&#x201C; enjoy the lifestyle. Phone 081 719 4688 Email : elbej@hotmail.com

Hillside setting. Luxurious 6 bedroom, 5 bathroom pool villa for sale or rent. Sale 20M Baht. Rent Low season Daily 6k, Weekly 36k, Monthly 80k. High season Daily 7k, Weekly 42k, Monthly 100k. One complete year 85k per month. Call 087 078 6379.

Royal Kamala Condo-Sale & Rent: In Kamala. Freehold 1, 2, 3 Bedroom apartment with kitchen, living room, balcony, swimming pool, fitness, security guard, parking. Ready to move. 085-368-3009, salesdirector@ royalkamala.com

Rawai Beachfront Pool Villa for Rent/Sale: Rawai

Beach front pool villa for sale. 3 bedrooms, furnished. Contact Siriporn on 089 649 9939.

Absolute Beach Front Land: Songkla district near new

deep sea port. 4.5 Rai divided into 7 Chanote plots. Reluctant sale. B4.9M the lot. Email: jmic chia@ yahoo.com or call 087 276 0529.

Condominium for SALE in Patong: Freehold title, Studio type,

32 sqm. of the living area, Furnished, 1 Bathroom, Fitted kitchen with dining area, Swimming pool, Restaurant. Call 083 103 3801 (English and Thai).

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PROPERTY IN PHUKET

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com ale s t en g r U

RPM Owner Direct Unique luxury condo 2 bed, 2 bath, 155sqm. Foreign FREE HOLD. Recent architect remodel. New Jacuzzi. Views to lake, mountain, marina, pool etc. Completely furnished to very high standard. Motivated owner leaving.

Reduced by 600,000B. ONLY 16.9MB. Contact Brian (Owner) 089 054 4354, +632 906 435 7146, Alan 087 999 6174, bggvirgo@gmail.com. See RoyalPhuketMarinaCondos.com for complete details.

PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

Our customers are wanting to BUY your condo, house, villa or business. Please contact Tina - 082 423 0043 or gm@arcadaproperty.com East Coast Sea View Land

Rawai Great Buying: Lovely Must see! Great 4bd villa: Truly exceptional 4 bd villa on the 1900 sqm land, surrounded by jungle. 10x5 m pool must see! 10 min drive to Tanyapura and to Naithon Beach. Great lovely home for large families! 084 060 7050, molokophuket.com/ buy/1999-east-residential-for-sale. info@molokophuket.com.

house with 2 bedrooms or separate SC flat downstairs.Well ventilated with natural light in pristine condition.Distant sea views.4,995,000 Baht. Warren Crowe 081 270 4291 or thailandmls@gmail.com.

LUXURY 5 BED HOUSE IN LAGUNA

Total 1.5 rai (2,450sq metre) on gently sloping land with sea view of Phang Nga Bay.

Wonderful 5 bed house over looking the lake & Golf course in Laguna. Sale: Reduced to: 31.5 M / Rent: 190,000 P/M. Call Mick: 0848186045 - Email: mr.mickb@yahoo.com or www.silkwind.net/laguna

2 separate Chanote titles each about 1,200 sq metres (4.5 and 5.5M), or will sell as one lot. Underground services. 081 273 7326, email: kmar74@hotmail.com.

Beautiful Beachfront Land: World Class Sea Views: 4 Bedroom British Colonial style house, Cape Yamu, Phuket. Amazing views spanning over 100km, as far as Krabi. Price reduced from B35 to B28 million. 086 279 6283, email: kdesmond59@yahoo.co.uk.

Land For Sale: Mission Hills. 3/4 of rai in small community, very quiet and private, close to all services, 10 min to school, airport, beach, golf, Tesco. B2.5M. 087 276 0529 for info.

Waterfront Villa in Boatlagoon: Modern style spacious townhouse. 3 large beds/4 baths. 250 Sqm. one office area and 2 balconies. One private birth for a boat up to 6 meters behind the house. freehold/leasehold. B9.9 million. Call 082 493 8526. Email: flakes010@hotmail.com.

Absolute beach front land only 4 to 5 hours from Phuket. Why pay 30-50 million baht per Rai when you can have the best from B1.1 to B2.9 Million Baht per Rai!!! Email: thailandmls@ gmail.com.

Paklok Land Only B7,999/ Sqwah: Only B7,999/Sq wah at

Paklok, Chanote, Mountain View, 200m from main road, 11 km from monument and 4 km to Mission Hill. Interested or want a larger size? CALL 084 305 6667, email: mari sar1978@hotmail.com

2,200 Land, Nai Harn -B10.9 million for Sale: Located in Sai Yaun 9, at the back of Mangosteen hotel. Very good access , road, electric, water. Size approximately 30 by 70 metres. Chanote. Contact 087 897 0501. aleksa@thai-evagroup.com.

Ocean Front Land: 7 rai with 185 metres of sea frontage. Water, electricity, road and boat access, located 800 metres from Yacht Haven marina, perfect site for small beach front development. For quick sale only B5 million per rai. Tel 081 343 0777 Email: montha_phuket@ yahoo.com.

1,000sqm garden. Private 9x4m pool. Three large beds, all a/c and en suite. Big Western kitchen. Plus guest house. Furnished. Private access. Price cut for quick sale. 13,500,000, alangath@ gmail.com, 087 273 0141.

2,200 Land, Nai Harn -12,9 min: Located in Sai Yaun 9, at the

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

A spacious family home in Boat Lagoon. Modern contemporary style with 4+1 beds, 4 bathrooms. Large dining area, private swimming pool and fully furnished. Size 616 Sq.M. Call 076 238 948.

ful place in Rawai. Large living area and terrace. 3 bedrooms, 4 aircon, 3 bathrooms, 1 guest toilet. Western kitchen, garage, laundry, beautiful garden, swimming pool. 612 sqm plot, chanote title. Price B9.5 million. Contact Tanya 083 506 8345, geta909@gmail.com.

Phuket Country Club Condos: 3 Only Luxury Contemporary

Condos, 1 per floor C/W lift. Located on the 15th fairway 275 M3 per floor total.Common Pool and Sundeck. Underground parking 1/unit, Floor 3 show unit complete Floors 1&2 are unfinished, waiting for owners choice of flooring and kitchens. Could still develop into one very large private home. Floors 1&2 could be offices star ting from B10 million. Or B32 million for project Partial financing available. Info contact 084 840 1262, north8east98@yahoo.com

Freehold Condo For Sale: 45 Sq.m Freehold. 2 balconies (great view). 1 bedroom. 1 livingroom. 2 air conditioners. Full furniture. Internet. Cable TV. Laundry. Fresh market. Swimming pool. Gym. Restaurant. Call 080 040 9077.

Superb Ocean View Lux Penthouse: B148,000 per sqm,

Land for Sale - Khao Lak:

A beautiful 402 rai land with 860 meters of beach front in Khao Lak,Phang Nga,Chanote Title,sale all land. Ru/ En translator Call:088-7652203,0813707289, wittawat_ks@hotmail.com

7th Floor Suites (Hotel) Building For Sale

Nai Harn Pool Villa For Sale: land area 336 sqm land,158 sqm interior floor, fully fitted Western kitchen, 2 bedrooms, 2 toilet/shower, 9x3 m pool, tropical fruit garden, chanote title, modern open design, fully furnished, 50 inch TV. B7,950,000, vankets@ gmail.com, 085 473 7812 .

288 sqm of heaven. Plunge pool, 3 bed, 4 bath overlooking perfect panoramic ocean views. Beach shops, fabulous restaurants, nightlife all a 3 minute walk. B42,624,000. Contact: 088 761 4030 or imgphuket@gmail.com.

Kata Beach Center 9 apar tments and a 300 sqm Penthouse on the roof plus fully equipped restaurant and pool with terrace are free of rent and now available. Price total 38 million Baht (9.50.000.euro) include chanote and Thai company. For serious interest email: thewhitehousekata@gmail.com for RUSSIAN; Ms. Oxana Email: phuket.lux@gmail.com

@thephuketnews

bungalow style (no stairs) pool villa in a small gated community 1,2km from mission hill golf club 6km to PIA, 3bed 3 1/2 bath, huge living room, large saltwater swimming pool, newly planted garden, 2 car carport, 2 telefon lines, fiberoptic internet, price 12mill./13mill. or 15mill. depending on your needs. 12MB, picharly@gmail.com, 087 060 8400

Patong; 50 sqm of the living area, seaview /mountain view, furnished, Pool, 24hr security, for SALE B2.8M - B3.3M. Contact 083 103 3801, 081 415 7774.

t en

Urgent Sale: 6 rai

Hilltop Land for sale, near Mission Hills golf club, was B4.2 million per rai now only B2.99 million per rai, full chanote, water/ elec. sea/mountain views. 087 978 5804 (Eng).

Yacht View Freehold RPM Condo: Gorgeous Yacht Views from Modern Villa in Marina:

Pool Villa Mission Heights: 5 year old fantastic

Very Spacious European From Owner: Villa in peaceR AWAI VILLA: BARGAIN PR I CE: S p a c i o u s p r o p e r t y i n

back of Mangosteen hotel. Very good access , road, electric, water. Size approximately 30 by 70 meters. Chanote. Contact 087 897 0501.

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

Apartment for sale in Patong: Apartment for SALE in

BEST SEAVIEW LAND-EVER! URGENT!! SEAVIEW LAND 12 Million Baht www.phuket-land-sale.com 081 8937027

Patong Loft Condo:

Land for Sale:

Mission Hills. One rai. Very quiet and private, close to all services, 10 min to school, airport, beach, golf, Tesco. B3.4M. 087 276 0529 for info.

Great Investment Opportunity: Completed show house and infrastructure seven further plots for development. 1.5km from Mission Hills Golf Club. Please call 087 888 1761 (Aom) for details.

Living, Dining, Master & Ferrari Sail Covered Patio. 2Bed 2Bath 194sqm 19.9MB Best views in Royal Phuket Marina Tel 0848519795 or 084 308 3113 A2554@icloud.com.

Chalong Beach Front Pool Villa: Chalong Beach Front Pool Villa For Sale/Rent,3 bed rooms,area 1 rai call Siriporn 089 649 9939,email: siri_phuket @changrunner.com.

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Zion Proper ty CO., Ltd.: Whether you are selling, buying or renting we offer a wide selection of high quality properties, land and businesses located in the south of Thailand. Please contact us for further information. Call 080 087 1772. See zionproperty.com.

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HEALTH SERVICES

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ADVERTISE HERE

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REMOVALS

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Specialized in large commercial and small residential cooling & heating systems.

076 319406-8 086 4702026-7 www.choochuay.com

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Jobs

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We b D eve l o p e r

G enkan Creative is looking to expand its international team. We are looking for a self-motivated, highly creative individual to work with our international team creating world class web applications. Candidates are expected to have the following experience; Thai Nationality Minimum 3 years’ experience working in Web Development Knowledge of HTML, CSS, Javascript, PHP Minimum 2 years’ experience working with Wordpress Knowledge of SEO a plus Knowledge of graphic design tools. E.g Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop a plus Knowledge of Facebook Apps a plus Expected Salary between 25,000 – 30,000 THB depending on experience. Candidates should send their CV to tpb@genkan.com.au.

Graphic Designer wanted Genkan Creative is looking to

expand its international team. We are looking for a self-motivated, highly creative individual to work with our international team creating world class web applications. Candidates are expected to have the following experience; Thai Nationality 3 years’ experience in Web graphic design Knowledge of HTML & CSS Knowledge of graphic design tools. E.g Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop Knowledge of Wordpress a plus Expected Salary between 20,000 – 30,000 THB depending on experience. Candidates should send their CV & Portfolio to tpb@genkan.com.au.

Native English Teacher

Fr e e l a n c e G r a p hi c s Designer: Looking for Freelance Graphics Designer for occasional projects using Photo shop, In Design and Illustrator programmes. Contact Simone on marketing@sea-bees.com or call 083 596 0018.

GHOST WRITER WANTED: Experience and CV Resident Phuket Apply ghostphuket@gmail.com.

N e e d ex p e r i e nc e d p r e s c h o o l teacher, 10 -14 children. Star t i m m e d i a t e l y, C h a l o n g , 4 0 hour a week. Send resume to phuketteacher@yahoo.com.

Marketing Executive wanted Art House is hiring - Marketing Executive, working at the booth in Central. Thai female, good command of English. We pay basic salary + commission + bonus. Call Alexandr 089 594 6888, info@arthouse.asia.

LIVE THE LIFEST YLE OF YOUR DREAMS: Inter-

DMG Thailand is hiring Development Management Group is a Project Management Company with a long and successful history in Phuket. We are expanding our team and looking for candidates with a track record of success.The positions will be located in Phuket and Thai Nationals are desired. The positions require good command of spoken and written English.

Contracts Manager The suc c essf ul c andidate will have a proven track record of successful contracts work in a construction environment. Administrative Assistant Solid skills with MS Office and previous construction experience is a plus. Tel: 076-617763. Email: hr@ dmg-thailand.com.

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

TV PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

Editorial Assistant/Translator

Interested candidates are invited to send application with full resume in English indicating qualifications, experience, expected salary with recent photo via email to hr@classactmedia.co.th or fax your resume to 076-612-553

Class Act Media Co., Ltd.

99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 ext 100 Fax: 076 612 553

@thephuketnews

Telephone Operator .Good level of English. Ability to work under pressure. Good in communication and organisation. Responsible and reliable. Minimum one year experience. Contact: HR Department, email: Humanresources.phuket@ swissotel.com or call 076 303 000.

M&E Engin e er M ec hanic al & Elec tr ic al Engineer to handle inspection, testing, and design review on a new construction project.Will coordinate with designers and contractors for the successful completion of the project.

Phuket News TV, a division of Class Act Media, is looking for a new member of staff who wants to learn everything about the production of video material - camerawork, video editing, studio and live recording. You will be part of a small, dynamic team and will be an important contributor to the weekly content from Phuket News TV. Previous industry experience is not necessary. But it is important to have an interest in digital broadcasting, video production and telling stories through the medium of video. Experience with shooting video material and digital editing software would be an advantage. Phuket News TV use Sony HD cameras and edit primarily on the Apple platform with Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro.

S w i s s S e r vic e / Phon e Operator: Swiss Ser vice /

The successful candidate will: ● Be a Thai national ● Be able to read, write and speak in English in order to translate documents to a high standard ● Be enthusiastic and have a positive attitude ● Assist foreigner and Thai editorial staff with information gathering ● Have excellent communication and telephone skills in both Thai and English ● Have the ability to work as part of a friendly team ● Strong computer skills ● Some data entry required ● Some after hours work required Interested candidates are invited to send application with full resume in English indicating qualifications, experience, expected salary with recent photo via email to hr@classactmedia.co.th or fax your resume to 076-612-553

Class Act Media Co., Ltd.

99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 ext 100 Fax: 076 612 553

FREELANCE WEB / SEO / EDITING: Do you require up-dates/ SEO to your site, blog or Open Cart? Also: s-engine/RSS/Blog submissions - PDF/Photo flip shows - Web Photo Video’s etc. Email: mr.m.hopkins@ gmail.com.

national financial advisors required for south east asia finance and sales experience a huge advantage please send your CV and contact details to: info@pp-intl. com www.pp-intl.com.

Au pair Qualifications: ·Bachelor’s degree + qualified teacher status. ·Accredited qualifications for working with young children. ·First language English speaker, plus the ability to teach other language . ·Expected to play at least 2 musical instruments. ·Between 35 to 47 years old, Female Experience: ·Minimum 7 years experience as Private Tutor. ·Minimum 3 years teaching experience preferably as a qualifiedteacher. Rationale: ·The purpose is to support the family in personal growth and development of the children. ·The focused on the manners, etiquette, well being and educational progress of the children. ·The post will have a significant influence on the children’s personality development and always ensure their well-being. Pls contact Carol 081 978 0090 or email me carolgarciastudio@ gmail.com.

LIFESTYLE/FEATURES EDITOR The Phuket News is looking for a lifestyle & features editor to oversee its weekly LIFE supplement. Your role will include writing and sourcing stories for an exciting range of subjects, from arts to dining, education to entertainment. You’ll be interviewing the island’s leading personalities, reviewing restaurants, attending glamorous events, and heading off on weekend travel trips. The ideal candidate will have 1-2 years experience covering lifestyle for a magazine or newspaper, be outgoing with plenty of ideas, and have strong writing and editing skills. You should also be keen to learn more about the Thai culture and the kingdom. In return, we offer a friendly work environment, 5 day work week (8.30am-6pm), competitive salary, local health insurance, work-related travel expenses, time in lieu for overtime, and the chance to live and experience a great part of the world, while also furthering your career. With a booming economy, thriving beach culture, and international community, Phuket is the place to be. Interested candidates are invited to send application with full resume in English indicating qualifications, experience, expected salary with recent photo via email to editor@classactmedia.co.th or fax your resume to 076-612-553

Class Act Media Co., Ltd.

99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 ext 100 Fax: 076 612 553

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Buy&Sell

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

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BOATS & YACHTS Luxury Yacht for Sale: For sale 2002 Bertram 510 Flybridge luxury yacht. Reduced to only USD675,000. Contact Marcus on marcus@leema rine.net.

2 2 m . I n d o n e s i a n Pi n i s i Ketch: Licensed and registered in

Boat Sales and Charters:

Thailand. She is in good condition and currently working as a snorkel and sunset tour boat. For sale or long-term rental. Price negotiable for quick sale. dragonheartthailand@gmail.com.

Want to build or charter your own boat to get out among Phuket’s many islands for fishing or pleasure? Then please contact the experts on 081 270 4291 or go to www. fishingboatingthailand.com.

End of 2013 - New Yacht Sale: Dehler 29 - 2 Cabin - THB New Varianta 37:

Max Value – Min Price 37’ yacht built by Hanse and designed by Judel/Vrolijk at a 32’ price. Performance 2/3 Cabin Layout. Base Price €74,900 ex Fact 0813701995 inq@sea-yss.com.

3,5000,000; Hanse 325 Max - 2 Cabin - THB 4,000,000; Varianta 37 - 3 Cabin - THB 4,950,000. Prices include many options and Delivery to Phuket. Contact: inq@sea-yss.com - www.sea-yss.com, 081 370 1995. Inq, inq@sea-yss.com.

LIV Aboard For Sale: Compressors and tanks also available. Please contact Joe : 087 891 8912 joe@ similan-diving-safaris.com.

Glass bottom Looker 320 Glass bottom cruise boat for sale. Length 9.5m, beam 3.7, passenger capacity 22, speed up to 40 knots, dural/composite hull. Engine Mercruiser 320 hp. Fuel tank for 150 l, consumption 50 l, consumption 50 l / 100 km. Front transparent windshield, bottom glass 3x2 m, hydrofoil, toilet + shower, navigation. Built in 2011, excellent condition. Sell for 9MB or barter for villa/apartment. pervadim@yandex.ru

Yacht sale 36-ft Searay: A very good condition with bedding for 5, air-con, generator, kitchenette, BBQ grill, twin propulsion, Mercruiser 5.0L bravo III DTS, raymarine chartplotter, GPS and depth sounder. B4.5 million. Call 089 647 5204. NEW ZODIAC 420 YACHTLINE: SPECIAL OFSELLING YOUR BOAT?: With high season just around the corner, now is the right time to get her listed, Boatshedphuket.com are always looking for new listings,big or small, power or sail, contact Alan Giles. 084 842 6146.

FER FROM MAX MARINE ASIA – A great sporty RIB, designed as a tender/people carrier for a larger vessel of approximately 70 feet. A smooth, fast ride guaranteed from the world’s most famous inflatable boat brand. -Hypalon tubes -Honda 50hp EFI 4 Stroke outboard -Boat cover FOR SALE AT 750,000 THB Contact Craig Murphy on 081-9700583 Or, Paul Stamp on 08-40 60 70 20 www.maxmarine.asia.

J e t s k i s & Tr a i l e r 600,000THB: Two 3 person jet skis, fully maintained & just fully repainted and serviced. Refurbished stainless frame trailer included with trailer jack and hand winches.082 282 6947 Dan (Thai/English).

Crownline 320 LS 50 kts B o w r i d : Ve r y f a s t - n i c e s p o r t boat,2x350 MPI engines, year 2009, like new, lifetime hull warantty, only 100 working engine hours, Thai flag, tax payed. Only 3M THB, Airberth 0,5 M THB seperately. yacht@elas.si.

40FT Steel Cutter Sloop: Ready to cruise.Centrecockpit. Safe, strong German design.New Sails, 44HP Yanmar Engine, 6 Berths, solar, wind generator, BBQ, dinghy&outboard. AUD$90K. 085 3780 498, yacht.antaia@gmail.com.

Kawasaki 750Sxi Jet Ski Pro: Stand up. Trick conversion kit, R&D ride plate, Race bars with finger throttle, Hydro-turf floor mat with foot-holds, Very reliable, fast, and great fun. Very good condition. B150,000. Contact: garysmith436@btinternet.com.

Boat for sale: Boat for sale at Ao Yon Bay (Cape Panwa, Phuket). Boat has two engines 140 cc yamaha. 13+ 2 per persons. Price:550. 000B. Phone number : 083 637 9704 Thai/Eng and 081 894 9967.

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CLASSIFIEDS 25

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

BUY & SELL IN PHUKET

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com BOATS & YACHTS

Steppa Fiberglass 32 feet Flybridge two 200 hp Yamaha outboard engines. Ideal for diving and tours. B850,000. Call 081 894 2124.

Speed Boat For Sale:

PHUKET ICON BUSINESS FOR SALE

PHUKET INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS COMPANY FOR SALE LTD… SERVICES CO L A S R E IV N WORLD PHUKET U N WITH THE IO T C E N N O C HT PANDS YOUR FREIG S PHUKET EX GROWING A

Company for sale - Owner retiring Well known 12 year established company specializing in sales and rental of containers, site/sales offices, Porta Loos as well as Self Storage. Customer base includes Tesco Lotus, Laguna, Marriot, Boat Lagoon and many more. Enormous potential for expansion and export. A conservative value of company assets exceed 11MB which is included in the sale price of 14MB. Call Gordon 081 892 4804, www. safewayasia.com.

 20 YEAR PROFITABLE OPERATION  50 MB PLUS TURNOVER 2012 CALANDAR YEAR 44’ Yacht - 8 berth layout with two bathrooms, B&G instruments and many options with Delivery to Phuket. THB 6,950,000, inq@sea-yss.com, www.sea-yss.com, 081 370 1995.

COMPANY FOR SALE

New Varianta 44’:

www.phukettransport.com CONTACT PETER: peterb@interglobalau.com PHONE: 0848433492 Boutique Guesthouse & Bar: Boutique Guesthouse, Bar /

A new premium Hanse with Sail Away options included - less than THB 4,500,000 in Phuket 0813701995 inq@sea-yss.com www.sea-yss.com, Person : Inq, inq@ sea-yss.com, 081 370 1995.

Hanse 325 Max 2014:

BOAT & CAR FOR SALE!!:

Boat: Swedish impor ted Buster XL maid by aluminum 2 scow, Suzuki 4 stroke outboard Engine used only 200hrs, Brenderup-trailer + wakeboard + all needed accessories. Car: Mitsubishi Triton 4 wheel, only 6 years old. Boat and Car sells as a package or separate. For more information please contact: 087-8772320 or E-mail: oliver@ thurmanngroup.com, B1,350,000.

H Y PA LO N D I N GY 3 . 3 M:

Brand-new with UV cover and storage cover, pump, oars, kits. Only B110,000 Email: eddyelan@yahoo.com 089 971 0278, Eddie.

P r i v a t e L u x u r y Ya c h t Char ters: Luxur y day & over-

Bertram 505 Conver for sale:

Launched in 1989 this long range sport fishing vessel is powered by 2 Hino Marine 360hp V8 Turbo . The interior is fully air-conditioned and features a saloon, three cabins and a galley. Price : 7,000,000 THB , Stefano, info@ thebigblues.com, 087 834 5293 .

night yacht char ters with crew & chef on board. Rates from 64,000 b a h t p e r d a y. Te l . 0 8 9 9 710 2 7 8 , www.yacht-charter-thailand.com.

45ft. 4 cabins. Volvo D- 4 IPS 300. Genset. Aircon. “Bose” surround. Raymarine. Low hours. Fully loaded. Fast and economical. As new. Bargain. Only 339,000 euros. Email: eddyelan@yahoo.com 089 971 0278, Eddie.

A steal for a quick sale:

2007 Italian demo yacht Cranchi 47ft Hard Top. Fully loaded with Tropical air con, genset, Electrical winches, garage, roof, Raymarine Premium Navy, BBQ, Ice Maker, 3 Fridges, “Bose” Sound, 2007 Italian demo yacht Cranchi 47ft Hard Top. Fully loaded with Tropical air con, genset, Electrical winches, garage, roof, Raymarine Premium Navy, BBQ, Ice Maker, 3 Fridges, “Bose” Sound, Neon light, Twin 570HP with reliable shaf t drive, under 300 hours, Brand New Condition. Euro 335,000. Tel: 089 971 0278, eddyelan@yahoo.com.

Land area approx 3,800 sqm. Main road with twin house in compound. Big garden, mangoes, tamarind, banana trees and a large restaurant in middle. Good lease and low rent. Price : 1.3 MB. Khun Asok, Rawai. big_redchili@ yahoo.com, 089 646 7176.

SEATBOAT 369 sale. Year 2009, engines 2x225 hp, capacity 22 passengers, great condition, ready to run, 2 stern exits, bathroom, shower, set of new options (coach, tent anto-staining), all documents. Priced at 1.9 MB, negotiable. Call Andrey 085 368 5908.

hull, 3.5 metres W, draws 1.5 meters, diesel engine generates 123 KW. Perfect for fishing or day tours. Fitted w Fish Finder and GPS. Was B1,500,000 now only B500,000. Call 082 414 6931, email: phil@ krabikon nect.com.

Coffee shop/cafe/bar for sale: URGENT-fully equipped and

licensed,you walk in I walk out,can be changed to bar,2nd flr 3 bed a/c ff acc.3rd flr covered open area,2 x Honda clicks 4 rent,cheap rent paid to 2014. Price: 400K, rjpooklook@ hotmail.com, 094 316 1461.

full chanote title. Include tennis court, volleyball court, fishing lake, game room, restaurant and bar and separate guest bungalow for sale or long term lease. Call +66 81 569 6026, +61 498 248 656 (English & Thai) Email:patbittersweet@gmail. com. See www.phuketsport.com.

2 rai prime development land near Villa Market & the new Central Festival site, Laguna/ Bangtao area. Long registered leases THB 1,800,000. Minimal ground rent. Contact 087 884 0644.

Reduced for quick sale:

N E W S E A L I N ES AVA I LABLE: Orders are now open for the

new range of Sealine Sports and Flybridge, both 380 and 450. For details of this exciting new range Contact: inq@ sea-yss.com - www.sea-yss.com - 081 370 1995.

and Thai food in Patong close to b e ac h an d m ain s h o p p in g Jungceylon. First class equipment included pizza oven. Main road location, 350 sqm. Good lease cheap rent. Owner health problem must sell URGENT . Only 8 MB! kingcable_aaa@hotmail.com 0870 368 551.

with Internet and Gaming Shop. Well established, for sale 2 Million THB. bargain, near Rawai beach. Contact Mr. Brown 081 090 9640 e-mail: info@ phuket-car-rentals.de.

Laundry shop for sale: LaunBar for sale: Very Busy Mushroom

bar for sale in Soi Bel Air. Wally Bar, all stock, T.V. sound system, beer boxes and fridges included in sale, rent, only B10,000 monthly. Only B600,000 ono. 086 725 0771.

dry shop for sale located in The Promenade Plaza Nanai Rd Patong. Free deposit, free key money, Three month rent free sign contract direct to owner of Plaza. K. Jeeppy, 093 160 6566, The_promenade@hotmail.com

Business for sale Business only or business and property. Est 2003. Repeat business from big data base, non-tourist related soft furnising manufacturing and retail business. Genuine enquires only, no tyre kickers.

For further info email samos1941@gmail.com.

Russian Cuisine Restaurant:

Russian restaurant for sale. Located in the middle of Kata beach. Advertising on Radio and TV. Fully equipped and staffed. Price : B3,000,000, Konstantin, vladim1r@me.com, 082 417 2444.

BAR ON BANGLA

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Cement Production Plant:

G u e s t h o u s e Ca f e B a r Karon Beach: Easily managed

Patong N ew Hot el for Longterm Lease: 40 rooms

Restaurant for Sale Urgent!: Seafood Europain

Car, Bike, Internet, Game shop: Car and Motorbike Rental

Sport Club for Sale by Owner: Set on 4 rai land with

SPEEDBOAT FOR SALE:

13 Metre Wooden Hull Cruiser: Cap. 17 PAX. Wooden 2009 POWER CATAMARAN:

Rawai Restuarant for Sale:

Restaurant business for sale. Fully equipped rooms and bar, website and facebook page established. Well situated only three minutes walk from both Kamala beach and main road with all their amenities. B1,500,000. Contact: 084 442 7015.

profitable business lease 4.7M. Fully refurbished, 6 year contract (fully pre-paid). Low rent. Busy soi 2 minutes from the beach. 5 beautiful ensuite rooms. Sports bar, fully fitted kitchen and restaurant area. Account available. Tel: 081 891 9461 / livingroom-phuket.com.

with full furnished, TV, fridge, aircon, hot water, swimming pool, restaurant and spa. Located in Soi Nanai villa. Contact 086 300 9406.

Ready Mixed Concrete Company’s factory. 446.92 Horse power. Output of workers in the production of 22 people per day at an average yield of about 100 Q/Day (B1,800/Q) average revenue per day for about B180,000. Manufacture of ready-mixed concrete. Can continue immediately. Just buy a cement truck then start delivery. Ready water source to be used for production. Address: Moo. 4 T. Maikhao Thalang Dist. Phuket 83110. Land Size: 20 rai 2 Ngan and 56 talang wah. Price: B130 Million. Contact: Mr. Lee, mobile: 081 803 7189.

In the front of a new discotheque in the center on Bangla Road. We have 5 bars for rent. They are prepared and can be used immediately. Best return of investment is guaranteed.

Please contact Khun Ay 081-895-7597

Dive Center for sale: Once in a life time opportunity: Paradise Diving Asia Co.Ltd. is selling its 12 years established 5* Dive Center / Retail Shop in Phuket, Nai Yang plus it’s unique location and connections, paradisediver@live.com, 081 891 5539.

Guest house & Business: For sale / rent long term. 400 sq m. (N.S.-3 K document) next to Swissotel Kamala. 500 m from Kamala beach. B32 million. Call 081 893 0540, 076 385 775 email: anong540@hotmail.com. Sale Bar, Hotel + 1 Shop Rawai Beach: Land plot

70 0 s q m e t r e + b u i l d i n g +10 b e d +10 b a t h +2 r e s t a u r a n t s . Newly renovated. Private financing by owner. Down B2 million + 13 yearly payment of 1MB. Own forever title land. 100 metres to Rawai landing pier. 084 242 8914, rawai4@yahoo.com.

@thephuketnews

Massage shop Patong: Due

to a relationship split,we must sell the massage business in Nanai. 5 Bed platform, 3 individual beds, 5 chairs 2 toilets, 1 shower, staff accommodation Large premises, could add other business All reasonable cash offers considered. B480,000, ur4236@yahoo.com, 083 594 1293.

For sale massage shop Pa r adi se: Ground floor

armchair,massage bed, cooking room, toilet, 1st floor 4 shower rooms. 2nd floor jacuzzi big room+bathroom.3rd floor 1 big r o o m+2 s m a l l r o o m s. 8 0 0,0 0 0 + 40,0 0 0/month c all Yves 081 895 1759 / 08 4 8 49 8 403 Bangboon(Thai).

Car Rental Company for sale !

Fully equipped office, website with online booking, many customers. New cars. Risk free opportunity.Start to make money immediately.Only 5.5 MB. Contact 0867479292 or claudstrey@ gmail.com.

26 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

BUY & SELL IN PHUKET

List your classified now at thephuketnews.com MOTORBIKE FOR SALE

BUSINESS SERVICES Your specialist of imported food and drinks in Phuket. Visit our shop at the Billion Plaza, opposite Tesco Lotus. Contact: 076 612 733, 076 248 900 or visit: www.phuketfood.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Farang Food Paradise:

Mini Cooper S JCW GP for sale: Only 2000 made worldwide. Per fect condition, 20 0 6, manual, 17,500 km, 218 hp supercharged, high end hifi, Recaro seats, Book Service, Ultimate Mini. Collectors item. B1.6m, 089 866 3756 (Eng/Th) frankdreist@ hotmail.com. Isuzu Dmax 2006, 105,000km, one owner, 4x2, silver automatic, double cab, good condition. Contact 087 079 0650 or 080 073 5371.

Isuzu Dmax:

HONDA CB500F FOR SALE: HONDA CB50 0F for sale. Only 2 month old bike, 200 km after first maintenance. Charged with high performance parts worth 40,000 baht: Akrapovič carbon exhaust, new clutch and brake handle, fuel tank protection. Full one year accident insurance as a sweet bonus for the buyer. B180,000. Call Dmitry 095 546 3649 .

REAL ITALIAN COFFEE: Free

coffee machines for biodegradable coffee capsules,6 blends:100%arabica,r obusta,organic,decaffeinated..BEST RESULT WITH MINIMUM EFFORT AND ZERO INVESTMENT,a real taste of Italy,call! 088 768 1260.

CARS FOR SALE

FINANCIAL HONDA CITY '03 1.5AT, 118X X Xkm: Ver y reliably & friendly car, carefully used for last 3 years. Good condition with some wears. Clean interior, good car audio, fresh tires. Best choice for young family. Honda serviced only. Igor, Chalong, B280,000, 083 102 0070.

CHILDCARE

Invest in Swiss Stocks:

The best Swiss Stock Fund for Small and Mid Caps. Performance 2012: + 24 %, 2013: +30 % in Swiss Francs. www.swissactivealpha. ch or contact Mr. Niklaus Siegrist (engl./germ) 089 291 5437.

Are you the boss here?:

FURNITURE

PEUG EOT 2 07 f o r sa l e:

2008 Peugeot 207cc, 33k kilometers, 1 owner, per fect c ondition, leather seats, Convertible, B940,000. 080 523 8819.

TOYOTA CAMRY VI-2.4 V V TI G PS: Toyot a C a m r y

VI-2.4i,16V WT-i VSC(167hp)AT(only 77,000km)6 years. Integrated GPS,DVD,Bluetooth. Anti-spin and speed control, outdoor censors & rear-camera. Leather/wood interior.Only B760,000, 088 445 2800.

CHILDREN’S CLUB Family sports and leisure club. Swimming/golf/ playcentre/ gaming arcade. Contact 076 203 185, 087 882 5544. See funstartphuket.com.

LEXUS-4 door sedan 1.2million: Lexus 250, 2006, 2.5 V6 gaso-

line. Paddle shifter, Spor ts Drive. Brand new rims and tires. Travelled 93K. Recently Fully Serviced from dealership. Needs new owner ASAP. 082 282 6947 Dan.

Phuket Country Club Membership: Lifetime full family mem-

bership (man, wife and limitless kids) at Phuket Country Club. Seller leaving Phuket hence only B570,000 ono. Transfer fees and this years subscription included. Call 081 273 7326.

G o l f M e m b e r ship fo r Sale: Loch Palm 500,000 Baht.

Buyer pays for transfer. 083 388 5566. Email borst.jg@gmail.com

style sofa and matching chairs 35,0 0 0 2 matching side tables 2,000 set Wooden dining table & 6 chairs 1.5m X 1.2m (extends to 1.5m) 10,000 Curtains (2) 5.74 X 2.4 8,000 Roman blind light brown color 1,000, 089 866 5887.

LEGAL

Account & Legal Consultant Legal Consultant Company Registration Work Permit Visa Account & Audit Civil Criminal Litigation Property business Consultant Tax Planing Attorney Translation etc. 081 477 9154. partharn@hotmail.com.

membership for sale! Excellent saving! B89,500 Call 084 052 2277.

Isuzu D-max super platinum3.0L: Bought on 04/2010. Check up every 5,000 km, only 65,000 km on clock. Double Surround sound with USB, navigator, many extras. Price : B620,000. Norbert 080 878 3542 GER/ENG. Email: norberts923@ gmail.com.

New in Phuket

BACKGAMMON

086 951 5511, tonivanLaak@hotmail.com

COMMUNITY

FORD WILDTR ACK 2012 ‘3.2’: Black, Top model, full set of

options, 37000 km, one owner, excellent condition, bought and serviced with the official Ford dealer Phuket (18 month warranty left). Only B1,050,000. Call Ilya: 082 804 9596, 082 270 9030.

The Seed Church Talang Phuket

Welcome to Sunday services: Thai: 10.00-12.30 AM and 7.30-9.30 PM. English: 2-4 PM. Free lunch and Sunday school for kids. Contact: K.Gung Tel: 076 -274975 - 6, 08 4 - 0567027 Email: yai_k@hotmail.com.

land Pool Tables is the Leading Billiard, Snooker and largest selection of game tables and accessories in Thailand. Price start from 40k – 100k. You can shop online at www. thailandpooltables.com, Call 085 797 0202, 085 797 0303.

SPORTING GOODS & EXERCISE Being young isn’t just FOR KID: Being young isn’t just

We Sell Boxes & Moving Supplies: At MY STORAGE Self Storage you can buy quality moving and packing supplies like individual boxes, bubble wrap, packing tapes & knives plus secure padlocks. We also help you to move and store. Call 076 292 909.

Pure Honda rotary mower, nearly new B20,000. Call English 082 516 8717, Thai 086 079 0890. Online health food in Thailand. Good karma, all natural, healthy, and organic products. Please contact 082 276 1675, w w w.good karmathailand.com.

Looking for a VISA Service? Visa to China, India or Shenzen & no need to fly to Bangkok. Check all procedures by email to jryjariya@ gmail.com or contact 080 887 4431.

FOR KIDS! This Air Hockey Table is truly out of this world and one of the most unique game tables available. Big and small children will be lining up to get the next game! Complete your Game Room Now, Ying, ying@thailandpooltables. com ,085 797 0005. Cruise Phuket in style. As new. 3 speed gears, disk/ drum brakes, comfortable riding position and plush saddle. Wide tyres and “chopper” forks. A must have for this season., Price : 32,000 , Person : Allan Mossop , Address : 393/2 Boi Ao Bang Tao 1, Cherng Talay, Phu , Email : allan@pipsphuket.com, 081 737 0722.

Cool Cruiser Bicycle:

PERSONAL SERVICES

SOVEREIGN Dining/Pool Tables : From Patanakarn Bil-

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS / VISAS

Health Food: Blue Canyon Golf Membership: Blue Canyon Golf Lifetime

Thailand Pool Tables: Thai-

Furniture for Sale: European

FunStart:

CLUBS & MEMBERSHIPS

Harley Davidson Dyna FXDL low rider. Perfect condition 100% maintained at Harley shop. New tires, brakes, filters. Comes with green book, saddle bags, rare Bangkok number plate. year 2000 B550,000, Leonor, gietzelt@gmail. com, 084 837 7249.

Are you the boss here? A great c o m b i n a t i o n i nve n t e d f o r t h e b o s s li ke yo u! C h e c k o ut o ur “ To k yo” Po o l Ta b l e ava i l a b l e i n d i f f e r e n t c o l o r s . We h a v e the largest selection of billiard, snooker and game tables. Ying, ying@thailandpooltables.c om, 085 797 0005.

MOVING & STORAGE

Buds International School & Kindergarten: Phuket’s old-

est international childcare facility. High-quality, time proven schedule and curriculum. Now in brand-new purpose-built school. Experienced native English teachers to teach ages 1 1/2-10. Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Bus service available from Patong, Karon, Kata, Phuket, Rawai and Chalong. Tel:076 384 638, 080 624 7060(Eng)/087 278 5511(Thai) www.buds-phuket.com.

Harley Dyna FXDL for sale:

Let ’s Have Fun Outside : Breakout the norm! And let ’s explore outside with all weather pool table. Guaranteed Fun: Anytime… Any where! Thailand Pool Tables, w w w.thailandpooltables.com, Call 085 797 0202, 085 797 0303, email: ying@thailandpooltables.com.

25% Off Detox Cleanse Kits: Are you committed to Change Your Life, Improve Your Health, Remove Toxicity & Lose Weight? Then visit us at The Cleanse Cafe for Detox Kits, Nutritional Supplements & Colon Cleansing. B8500, info@amitywellness.com , 090 874 1372.

liards. 6FT start at only 64,500THB plus BIG discount or FREE Football table for Phuket Customers only!! Call NOW 081 171 2121 www.patana.co.th.

Kite Surf Equipment for Sale: 2 new boards, never used.

2 Kites, used 2-3 times. New price was more then 200,000 Baht. Sell altogether for 100,000 Baht. For single items. Please call: 086 747 9292 (English).

PUBLIC NOTICES GENNEWA GOLD MEMBERS: Attention Gennewa Gold members. Please contact urgently. randyalltime@gmail.com

POOL TABLES

Earn Extra w Coin Pool Tables: Earn Extra $$$$$ with our

Coin Pool Tables Make money while keeping your patrons enter tained! No risks..No Hassles.. We install, regularly maintain the tables and share all the income with you! Contact us now. ying@thailandpooltables.com, 085 797 0005.

Custom Trek MTB HardTail: Trek 8 Series Alu Frame, 20.5 inch (180 cm+) pimped in white. Fuji/ XT/ Deore drive train. XT SIS disk Brakes, Custom Alex/ Veulta wheels, Sock Shox SID Team front shox. SuperFly bike. Call 081 737 0722.

MEMBERSHIPS BLUE CANYON GOLF MEMBERSHIP: Lifetime family membership to Phuket’s most prestigious golf course. THB 840,000 Includes transfer fee of THB 140,000. Email jerdek56-asia@yahoo.com or call/ sms 0818913051. Serious offers only.

6FT Non-Coin and Coin-Operated Slate Pool Tables SPECIAL price at 49,700THB from Patanakarn Billiards PHUKET. All Accessories + Delivery incl. Call Now 081 171 2121, 076 521 211.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

SPORT

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

TSLC hosts Thailand vs Hong Kong TENNIS

Vagabonds bring title back home RUGBY UNION

ocal rugby team the Phuket Vagabonds beat the Alor Star Blues from Malaysia in an epic final match to win the Prince of Songkla Rugby 7’s Championship in Hat Yai last weekend. Despite losing some players to injury during the topsyturvy game, the Vagabonds were able to use their strong defence to shut down the Blues to win 24-17 in the final of the two-day tournament. Even without the services of injured captain Darryn Mathee, the Phuket Vagabonds entered the tournament with quiet confidence as they took care of business on the first day by defeating PSU 24-0 and then Songkla Rugby 33-5. The toughest game of the

The winner of the opening tie will take on Kuwait in early April, which defeated Indonesia two weeks ago 3-2. Last year, Thailand beat Kuwait 4-1 before losing to the same score the following round against the Philippines. Though Thailand has never reached the World

Group, they have made it to the play-off round four times, most recently in 2006. Organisers moved this weekend’s match-up to TSLC from its original location in Bangkok after a state of emergency was declared there due to the ongoing political crisis.

Liverpool legend on Phuket radio

day came against Kedah from Malaysia. In a lopsided first half the Vagabonds were well ahead and, despite the threat of a comeback in the second half, held on to win 19-12. On day two, the Vagabonds started out with two straight clean sheets: a 24-0 win against Yala 1, followed by a 21-0 win over the Blackhawks from Malaysia.

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL Dozens of the island’s best Brazilian

Jiu Jitsu athletes came out for 2014’s first Kata Beach BJJ Open at Nai Harn beach on February 6. Athletes from all over the globe participated in the event, which is run by the Chalong-based Phuket Top Team gym.

@thephuketnews

THE TH A ILA N D A N D Hong Kong national tennis teams have descended upon Phuket for their first round clash in the Davis Cup, being held from today until Sunday (February 14-16). The event, which takes place at Thanyapura Sports and Leisure Club (TSLC) in Thalang, is part of the Group II, Zone Asia/Oceania leg of the competition. Anchored by former US Open junior champion Phillip King, this will mark Hong Kong’s first match against a Thailand squad that has high expectations itself. The Thai team is currently ranked 50th in the world according to the latest International Tennis Federation standings while Hong Kong sit at 68th.

The cup semi final against Malaysian Police proved to be a tough battle, with the Vagabonds having to come from behind twice to snatch the game at the death by 12-10 to leave the Police side reeling in disbelief. The Vagabonds’ next challenge will take place at the Bangkok International Rugby 10s on February 22-23.

E X-LI V E R P O OL A N D England international football player, Alan Kennedy, will be on this week’s Live 89.5 radio show ‘Saturday Lunchbox’ with Garry Holden and the legend Harry Finger starting at noon. Kennedy is known as the only British player to have scored the winning goal in the Champions League final twice. If you would like to ask questions about the Liverpool team, past or present, and win a signed Liverpool shirt from Alan then send an email to lunchbox@classactmedia.co.th

or leave your questions on our Facebook page at facebook. com/thephuketnews. The question, to win the

signed shirt, is: ‘What number did Alan Kennedy wear on his shirt while playing for Liverpool?’

28 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Get to know your fishy friends of the high seas CAST AWAY

Jimmy Stewart info@fishinginphuket.com

i once again my ofishinado friends. This month I thought I would start off with some advice, nothing to do with fishing: Don’t ever buy an android ‘smart’ phone, they make you realise how ‘stupid’ you are. As the weather has been very unseasonal, with a cool eastern wind persisting all month, the only happy folks on the water were the wind surfers, who had a whale of a time. So, with not much news, I had the notion to write about little known facts relating to the fish we catch in local waters. For example: Did you know a Marlin can travel around 804 km a day? The females can spawn four times in a season and drop as many as four million eggs at a time. Also known as the fisherman’s elusive “hole-in-one”, it is possibly the most hunted of the “big game”

A normal catch in Phuket prior to 2014. Photo: Geoff Williams

fish, sought after by such famous names as Ernest Hemingway, Lee Marvin and myself. These monsters of the deep follow the warm water currents and regularly appear thousands of miles from their last sighting and “tagging” in just a few months. How about our local Sailfish, the “fastest fish” in the sea? This speedster of the oceans can travel in excess of 100 kph and uses its sail to herd bait fish into a “bait ball” prior to attacking with its bill, stunning the fish and eating them as they drop dazed out of the confusion of the ball. Very few people also know Sailfish can change colour in the blink of an eye The Dorado is a short-lived but also the “fastest growing” fish in the sea, which can develop from a 1kg juvenile to an 18kg adult in just 18 months as part of their four-year life span. Dorado, Mahi-hahi or Dolphin Fish as they are also known, are magnificent fighters and make great eating. They are one of the few predators that you don’t mind trolling around garbage at sea for

as these clever chappies shelter under flotsam from the sun’s rays and in so doing stay unseen from their unwitting prey below. The Queen Fish, which to novice fisher-folks look a bit like a small, thinner tuna is often handled like tuna. This results in extremely sore hands, for on its dorsal there are a series of very sharp retractable spines. Queenies are also a really good eating fish. Last but not least, the sad saga of the Chalong Pier continues with yet another sunken boat. On a brighter note, send in your stories, jokes and anecdotes plus any great snaps as we should now be moving into another top fishing month with fingers crossed for the fisheroos on the RBFC Classic Fishing Competition at the end of February. This month’s photo is from Geoff Williams an RBFC member from Durban, reminding us what fishing here used to be like, before commercial over-fishing. Tight lines to all, Jimmy fishinginphuket.com

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

SPORT 29

JLL Cricket leaders Thalang pose in front of the new scoreboard at the Alan Cooke Ground after their win over ICC last Sunday (February 9). Photo: John Whetton

Thalang beats ICC, takes over top spot in JLL CRICKET

halang have secured the top spot of the Jones Lang LaSalle Cricket League following their win over Island Cricket Club (ICC) in last Sunday’s (February 9) match at the Alan Cooke Ground (ACG). Both teams looked evenly matched on paper with two wins a piece, each having suffered narrow losses to the strong Laguna outfit. Thalang chose to bat first as openers Justin Thomatos and Andrew McMillan showed their intent to set a competitive total right from the first ball. It almost back fired when McMillan squeezed that ball out to the point fieldsman and set off for a run. Thalang came off for the first drinks break with 77-0 lead. The Thalang openers continued to run hard after the break and shortly after the hundred partnership was brought up ICC’s fleet footed wicket keeper Shah Ullah pounced on a loose ball and threw down the stumps at the bowlers end to catch McMillan (57 runs) just short of his ground. The ICC team may have been hoping that the wicket would stem the tide of runs but respite was nowhere in sight. Justin Thomatos, coming off 143 not out in his last appearance set about the ICC bowling like a bull to a red flag. Thomatos smashed 4 big sixes including one that required a visa to get back to the cricket ground. Anthony Dupont (15 runs), Bill Stahmer (16 runs), and Craig Murphy (14 not out) all chipped in as Thomatos went @thephuketnews

Jones Lang LaSalle Cricket League Team

Pts

Bonus Total

Thalang

Laguna

ICC

Patong

Village

Justin Thomatos scored 122. Photo: John Whetton on to raise his bat as the only player to score 2 hundreds at the ACG. Thomatos was eventually out caught in the deep for 122 off the bowling of Baseer Pir in the 33rd over. In Thalang’s innings of 253-5 the pick of the bowlers for ICC were Paresh Borkar (2-53), Anand Chand (1-35) and Baseer Pir (1-48). Requiring a run chase of 254 to win, ICC sent out the capable Shah Ullah with their in-form batsman and captain Anand Chand. It was all or nothing for ICC if they were to win and after 4 tight overs Chand was the first to take on the bowlers, hitting Thalang bowler Anthony Dupont down the ground for 4 runs. The next ball Dupont had his revenge bowling Chand (7) with the score 15-1. Steaming in again Dupont had batsman Baseer Pir caught behind and

had a rare chance of an ACG hat-trick. The fielders were brought in around the new ICC batsman, the ball pitched full and straight and it was calmly played back down the wicket. Not to be outdone, Thalang’s left arm strike bowler, Neill Culpan, picked up 3 wickets in his next over, 2 bowled and an LBW to have ICC 19-5. Things didn’t improve for the batting side and the record for the lowest team score of the JLL league loomed large as Dupont dismissed 2 more batsmen from his next 3 balls to have ICC 19-7. ICC was all out for 37 runs with Ravi Naik the top scorer with 10 runs. Thalang’s opening bowlers shared the wickets in extraordinary fashion with the stunning figures of Neill Culpan (5-12) and Anthony Dupont (5-19). The win catapulted Thalang to the top of the JLL league ladder with this Sunday’s (February 16) match between Patong and the Village the mid-point of the season. On Saturday (February 15), a social T20 match will take place at 3.30pm at the ACG as all those interested in trying cricket are welcome to come along. For full scoreboard and more details please visit phuketcricketgroup.com.

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Reds thrash Gunners to stake claim for EPL title FOOTBALL

iverpool re-energised their Premier League title challenge with a magnificent 5-1 rout of sorry leaders Arsenal on an afternoon of one-way traffic at Anfield last Saturday (February 9). Brendan Rodgers’s rampant side struck four times in the first 20 minutes, as Arsenal saw a run of 10 games without defeat in all competitions torn to shreds in brutal fashion. Martin Skrtel scored twice in 10 minutes to spark the rout, with Raheem Sterling claiming a brace and Daniel Sturridge also finding the net before Mikel Arteta replied for Arsene Wenger’s humbled Arsenal. The one-sided victory lifted fourth-place Liverpool to within five points of Arsenal, a week before the sides are due to meet again at the Emirates Stadium in the fifth round of the FA Cup. Liverpool’s performance,

Liverpool’s Raheem Sterling scores the fifth goal past Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny. Photo: AFP/Andrew Yates meanwhile, suggested that they cannot be discounted from the title picture despite media projections of a three-horse race between Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City. “It was an incredible performance,” said Liverpool manager Rodgers. “It’s not the first time we’ve been outstanding at home, but everything about us today

was incredible. Everything was outstanding. Meanwhile, Eden Hazard’s hat-trick gave Chelsea a 3-0 win over Newcastle United last Saturday (February 8) as they returned to the top of the Premier League for the first time since September. Having previously won 1-0 at title rivals Manchester City on

Monday, Chelsea are arguably the form team in the top flight at the moment and in Hazard they have the stand-out player. He struck with two fine finishes in the first half and completed his first treble in Chelsea colours from the penalty spot mid-way through the second period. Jose Mourinho’s side jumped above Arsenal and City, both of whom dropped points, as the west Londoners signalled their intent to end a four-year wait for the biggest prize in English football. Chelsea, who were missing the injured John Terry, might have started at a slow tempo, but the warning signs were there from the off that this would be a routine afternoon at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea introduced new £11 million (B590 million) winger Mohamed Salah for his first appearance late on and he should have marked his debut with a goal. The Egyptian wasted two

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golden chances, but the damage had already been done by the man he had replaced. Elsewhere, Emmanuel Adebayor’s fine goal saw Tottenham Hotspur steal a march on Everton with a 1-0 victory over their Champions League qualification rivals in the Premier League on Saturday. The Togolese striker settled

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an evenly balanced game with an adroitly taken strike in the 65th minute to take Tottenham above Everton and into fifth place in the battle for a top-four finish. AFP Note: Over half of this week’s English Premier League matches were yet to take place when The Phuket News went to print.

ALLEY-OOP The varsity basketball teams of HeadStart (in blue) and QSI (orange)

met last Tuesday (February 11) at HeadStart International School for the first of a four-game series. Both teams were evenly matched as HeadStart went into half time with the lead, but QSI rallied in the fourth quarter to win the game 29 to 25.

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

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Tuhugov ready for UFC debut MMA

Comatose Schumacher hit by lung infection FORMULA ONE FOR M U LA ON E LEGEN D M ICH A EL Schumacher, who is still lying in a coma in a French hospital, has contracted a lung infection, the German newspaper Bild reported Wednesday. The effects on the fragile state of health of the 45-year-old were unknown, it said, without citing sources. Schumacher’s spokeswoman, Sabine Kehm, told the newspaper: “We are not commenting on speculation.” Schumacher has been in a coma since his December 29 ski accident, when he badly injured his head, causing serious swelling of the brain. The doctors treating him in the hospital in the French city of Grenoble two weeks ago said they were trying to coax him out of the coma by reducing his sedation. Kehm said the process could take some time. With little information being given to media, the hospital has been left to fend off rumours. Last Thursday, it had to deny speculation flaring on social networks that Schumacher had died. AFP

huket will be represented halfway around the world this weekend when Zubair Tuhugov takes on Douglas Silva de Andrade at UFC Fight Night 36 in Santa Catarina, Brazil tomorrow (February 15). Tuhugov (15-2) is a Russian fighter currently based out of Phuket’s Tiger Muay Thai & MMA Training Camp in Chalong. The former combat Sambo champion is riding a five-fight win streak, most of them in Russian promotions. A tough challenge awaits Tuhugov as he fights undefeated Brazilian striking specialist Andrade (22-0). Both men will be making their UFC debut with Andrade enjoying a significant home advantage in his native Brazil. Though Tuhugov has a strong background in grappling, most of his stoppage wins have come via strikes, including an impressive spinning back-kick knockout over Vaso Bakoveciv in his last fight in October. Tiger Muay Thai will also see two of their other fighters,

as well as one former fighter, enter the sport’s premier cage as Mairbek Taisumov (21-4-0), Will Chope (19-6-0), and Danny Mitchell (14-4-1) prepare for their bouts in March. Taisumov, an Austrian-raised Russian, will take on a tough opponent in MMA veteran Gleison Tibau (28-10-0) on March 23 in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil at UFC Fight Night 38. Taisumov is coming off of his UFC debut

win, a decision over Tae Hyun Bang, back on January 4 in Singapore. On the same night, Chope will battle against veteran Diego Brandao (18-9-0). Billed as the tallest featherweight in the world, the 194 cm Chope is coming off of his first loss in two years when he was stopped via TKO by Max Holloway in his UFC debut in Singapore one month ago.

The American will be looking to bounce back and use his range against the 170 cm-tall Brandao. Meanwhile, Mitchell will take on Igor Araujo (24-6-0) on March 8 at UFC Fight Night 37 in London’s O2 Arena. Mitchell, who has won five of his last six fights by either knockout or submission, will make his UFC debut in front of a home crowd.

Russian teachers told to cut back homework for Games OLYMPICS

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Run 1460 : Saturday, February 15, at 4pm Hares: Jungle Balls, C***mas Pus sy & Ice Box Virgin Hare Directions: Rawai (off Sai Yuan). From Chalong Circle go south for 2.3km and turn right at the first traffic lights onto Sai Yuan. Go 1.1km and turn right onto Soi Samakee 2. Go another 1.2km and turn right (HHH). Laager is 400m on the right. From anywhere up the east coast take the Karon/Kata route. Once you come off the hills down into Rawai turn left @thephuketnews

after the Rubber Tree Bar (signposted to Le Celtique) (HHH). After 400m turn left (HHH). Laager is 400m on the right. There will be an informal on-on at one of the local curry houses after the circle (the Tandoori on Sai Yuan), followed by a trip to the Sunshine Bar on Rawai beach for those still standing. Bus Pick-up: Kamala: 14:15, Patong: 14:45 (Bus will not be staying for the on-on.) More info: phuket-hhh. com

PRESIDENT VLADIMIR P ut i n’s r u li ng pa r t y on Wednesday urged Russian school teachers to cut back on homework assignments so children could spend more time watching the Winter Olympic Games in Sochi. The feel-good proposal came on the heels of the Russian army’s decision to give

some troops an extra four hours off per day to watch television so that they can root for the athletes. “United Russia deputies made a proposal to reduce the volume of homework for children during the 2014 Olympic Games so that children could watch the competition,” said leading ruling party lawmaker Nikolai Bulanov. “The Olympic Games are a great teaching tool for our

young people,” state news agencies quoted Bulanov as saying. The TNR media research group estimates that 59.9 per cent of all Russians watched live or rebroadcast portions of Friday’s lavish Sochi Games opening ceremony. TNR said the audience in Moscow reached 8.7 million people – about three-quarters of the city’s estimated population of 11.5 million. AFP

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Phuket Vagabonds go on a tear to capture rugby sevens crown in Hat Yai > page 27

Grand Slam contenders set for biggest test yet SIX NATIONS ix Nations organisers will be praying France and Ireland remain unbeaten through to their showdown on March 15, but prior to that the only two remaining contenders for the Grand Slam face their biggest hurdle in the next round of games. The French play two-time defending champions Wales in Cardiff today, while a day later the Irish are at Twickenham to meet England. England can count themselves unlucky not to be unbeaten themselves, having lost to France at the death of their thrilling opening game. However, both the French and the Irish can be encouraged by historical precedents. The last time France beat England and Italy at home – they saw off the Italians 30-10 last Sunday (February 9) – in 2010 they went on to land the Grand Slam. Ireland for their part have made their best start – beating Scotland and Wales at home – to the tournament since they won the Grand Slam in 2009. With all due respect to the Scots and the Italians, the

France’s centre Wesley Fofana evades a tackle by Italy’s fullback Luke McLean to score France’s second try during the Six Nations international rugby union match France vs Italy at the Stade de France. Photo: AFP/ Patrick Kovarik next games will be the ones both teams will be looking to as the one where their Grand Slam hopes could end. Ireland’s task of securing the Grand Slam is put into perspective by the fact that the last time they won in both France and England was in the 1972 Five Nations.

Coach Joe Schmidt, who outsmarted his compatriot Wales handler Warren Gatland in last Saturday’s (February 8) 26-3 win, acknowledges now he has a different challenge on his hands. Now after coming within a whisker of being the only side to beat world champions

New Zealand last November, and their two wins in the Six Nations, Schmidt is trying to protect the players from rising expectations. “Part of what we have to manage now is player anxiety because they’re going to be made well aware,” he said, “of the expectation and the

public expectation.” His England counterpart Stuart Lancaster – whose side easily disposed of Scotland 20-0 keeping their opponents off the score sheet in games between the two for the first time since 1978 – said with their next two games at home they want to put on a show

that will bring their supporters to their feet. “They [the Irish] should be looking at us and thinking, ‘This is going to be a good old game’.” While Wales captain Sam Warburton insists the Welsh can go on and become the first team to win three successive Six Nations titles – they lost to Ireland last year but still went on to retain the crown – others are not so confident. “I am sorry to say this Wales team now no longer represents a viable threat to the big boys in the world,” wrote Welsh rugby legend Bar r y John in his Wales Online column. France may not have looked entirely convincing in either of their wins, but the confidence gained from their first back to back victories since November 2012 sends them off in good heart and with coach Philippe Saint-Andre declaring they have a fierce desire to beat the Welsh. However, the 46-year-old’s gung-ho attitude appears to have fallen on deaf ears with regard to his barrel-chested centre Mathieu Bastareaud. “It is all but mission impossible,” said the Toulon star. AFP

Fighter finally gets title shot MMA J.P. Mestanza editor2@classactmedia.co.th

IT’S THE CALL EVERY fighter dreams of. After losing a heartbreaking decision against Rafael Silva in the Bellator tournament finals back in October, native New Yorker Anthony Leone (left) has been called upon to replace his former foe in a title match for the bantamweight belt. “It’s been a crazy couple of days,” Leone said a day before

he headed back to the US to train for the March 7 bout, “it’s only been 36 hours since I found out I was fighting for the title. I’m just so happy.” Leone (13-6) will take on bantamweight titleholder Eduardo Dantas (15-3) in the event, which will take place in the southwestern state of Oklahoma. Though highlyregarded, Dantas has not fought in almost a year and Leone believes that this is his time to finally make noise in the MMA world. “This is when you become a fighter,” Leone said, “whatever you do in life, you want to

do the best you can achieve.” A high-level grappler, Leone has been a stalwart at Phuket Top Team – one of the region’s top MMA gyms – for the past few years, and will be looking to capture the title in a fight that seemed to have just slipped out of his hands back in October. The 26-year-old defeated three tough opponents – all with a combined record of 41-12 – on his way to the final bout against Silva. The winner of that match would have been granted a title shot against Dantas. Despite the tough deci-

sion loss in October, Leone has been able to step up and replace Silva after a knee injury knocked him out of the March 7 event. Still, with only about four weeks notice, Leone is putting out all the stops to capture his first pro MMA title by returning to New York for the first time in a while to train with his old coaches in order to minimise the affects of any potential jet lag and get used to the environment. “This is my shot to achieve what I’ve been wanting to achieve since the second I started fighting,” he said. thephuketnews