The Phuket News 14 December 2018

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

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Chikungunya infections rise, spur offensive

LIFE

A pickup truck bursts into flames after slamming into a power pole on Thepkrasattri Rd earlier this year. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub

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PHUKET IMPROVES ON ITS RANKING AS ‘WORST IN THAILAND’ FOR ROAD ACCIDENTS Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

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huket has improved on its status as the worst province in the country for deaths and injuries in road accidents just three years ago, and is now ranked “26th worst”, according to the leading road safety figure on the island.

The new ranking still means there are 51 other provinces in Thailand with better road-safety records, but the jump is a marked improvement, Dr Wiwat Seetamanotch, Vice President of the Phuket office of the Road Safety Policy Foundation, told The Phuket News this week.

“It is better than last three years ago, when Phuket was the ‘top rank’ (worst),” he said.

As of Wednesday, so far this year road accidents in Phuket have left 78 people dead and 8,221 injured in 7,144 accidents, according to the official ThaiRSC statistics, which are compiled from Ministry of Health government hospital reports and police reports.

A breakdown by district shows: Muang District – 42 dead, 5,288 injured in 4,592 accidents; Kathu District (including Patong) – 15 dead 1,613 injured in 1,416 accidents; and Thalang District – 21 dead 1,320 injured in 1,136 accidents.

In a further breakdown by selected tambon (subdistricts) the ThaiRSC reports shows: 1) Wichit 9 dead, 1,156 injured; 2) Chalong: 8 dead, 805 injured; 3) Rassada: 7 dead, 780 injured; 4) Koh Kaew: 5 dead, 165 injured; 5) Karon: 4 dead, 422 injured; 6) Rawai: 3 dead 535 injured; 7) Talad Yai (Phuket Town): 4 dead, 868 injured; 8) Talad Nua (in Phuket Town): 1 dead, 406 injured; and 9) Samkong: 1 dead 151 injured.

Of note, Patong was not listed in the selection, which only accounts for only 42 deaths reported so far this year, thus leaving the remaining 36 deaths unaccounted for.

Overall, Phuket’s current death

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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and injury toll compares with last year’s 93 dead and 8,512 injured, a marked jump from 2016, when the island suffered 75 people killed and 7,243 people injured in road accidents.

Dr Wiwat attributed Phuket’s improvement to ramped up efforts by police to enforce traffic laws, improvement of the roads themselves and road-safety campaigns to raise awareness of the deadly issue.

“Well, the police have been doing their work so well,” Dr Wiwat said.

“It has started changing after we urged to have safer roads within five years. This year, I believe Phuket’s road-safety ranking will be better,” he added…

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Heartbeak leads to man found hanged POLICE H AV E RU LED in their investigation that a 27-year-old man committed suicide by hanging himself after seeing his long-term partner, who is the mother of his three children, with another man at an entertainment venue in Kathu last Friday night (Dec 7).

Lt Col Somkid Onjan of the Phuket City Police was notified of the hanging at 9am, and arrived at the scene, a rented room in Koh Keaw, with fellow police officers and rescue workers from the Kusoldharm Foundation to find the body of Damrong Manjit, 27, from Ranong, hanged by his neck with a nylon rope tied to a ventilation breeze-block in the kitchen wall.

Officers estimated that Mr Damrong died sometime between 2am and 8am, but had rescue workers transport his body to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further medical examination.

Kattika Jitjam, 22, also from Ranong, told police that she had lived with Damrong for many years and the couple had three children together.

The couple often argued because of Damrong was

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Tourists safety, waste issues raised in US Ambassador visit > page 4

Chikungunya alive

Officials launch new anti-outbreak campaign Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

Police investigae the hanging last Saturday (Dec 8). often jealous.

Police noted in their report that Ms Kattika said, “Last night, I visited a popular entertainment venue in Kathu, and Damrong had sneaked in there to see me at the venue.

“When I got back to the room, we had another fight and then after that I went to the bed in the bedroom while Damrong stayed outside.”

Ms Kattika told police that at 8am that morning, she came out from the bedroom and found Damrong hanged.

“I ran to relatives to ask help and have them bring down his body,” she said.

However, police also noted in their report that Damrong apparently saw Kattika with another man, and so he decided to suicide. The source for that understanding was not noted.

Eakkapop Thongtub

L

ocal health officials are rolling out a campaign to prevent an outbreak of Chikungunya after a spike in the number of infections on the island.

Phuket Public Health Office (PPHO) Chief Tanit Sermkaew confirmed to The Phuket News on Wednesday (Dec 12) that government hospitals across Phuket had reported 47 confirmed cases in November and a further 21 people already this month.

“Chikungunya virus infections are increasing in areas where people live close together, especially in densely populated areas in Rassada, Wichit and Talad Yai (in Phuket Town), as well as in Rawai,” he said.

Health Chief Tanit urged people not to panic.

“No people have died from this, Chikungunya virus does not result in death,” he said, adding that the PPHO has launched a campaign to raise awareness of Chikungunya and to prevent the spread of the mosquito-borne virus.

Rawai Mayor Aroon Solos and his team of municipal health officials are not waiting, they began fumigating and rolling out their prevention campaign on Monday.

Doctors at Vachira Phuket Hospital, the island’s main government hospital,

Rawai Municipality has already begun rolling out its campaign to prevent an outbreak of Chikungunya.

Photo: Rawai Municipality located in Phuket Town, have already confirmed that 11 people in Rawai have contracted the virus, Mayor Aroon said.

“But there are 20 more people who now have a fever that we are waiting for doctors to confirm whether or not they too have Chikungunya,” he added.

“It is a worry for us now. Chikungunya infections are rising in Moo 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and 7 in Rawai. It is spreading very quickly, and I have received a Chikungunya virus awareness warning from the Phuket Provincial Health Office already,” he confirmed.

“We don’t know the clear cause of this rise in infections yet. Only mosquitoes deliver the disease,” Mayor Aroon noted.

In response, Mayor Aroon and Rawai Municipality health officials have begun

fumigating areas where mosquitoes are likely to breed.

They have also begun a door-to-door campaign to educate local residents about eliminating likely mosquito-source areas – namely those where still water lies.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Chikungunya symptoms usually begin three to seven days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.

The symptoms of Chikungunya are similar to those of dengue and Zika, diseases spread by the same mosquitoes that transmit Chikungunya. The most common symptoms are fever and joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash.

Phuket improves on ‘worst in country’ road danger title Continued from page 1 ... However, Dr Wiwat noted that Phuket remains the worst province in the country for breaking traffic laws. “Nakhon Sri Thammarat province is the second-worst province for people breaking traffic rules,” he said.

Dr Wiwat listed the top of-

fences as: not wearing helmets, reckless/dangerous driving, not wearing a seat belt, driving without a licence, speeding, running a red light, ghost driving (driving opposite traffic flow), dangerously cutting off other motorists in traffic, using mobile phones while driving and drunk driving.

News that police efforts have improved Phuket’s ranking among the deadliest in the country came as a surprise to Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander Col Chaiwat Uikam, who’s now the top-ranking officer overseeing the Provincial Traffic Police.

Col Chaiwat took up the

position only earlier this year after being transferred from his post as Patong Police Chief.

“I d id n’t k now what Phuket’s ranking for danger was,” he told The Phuket News this week.

However, he added, “We are going well and work hard.

Phuket’s roads are safer because we do what we do so well.”

That said, Col Chaiwat declined to share specifically which actions the police have taken that have made the island’s roads safer.

Maj Gen Wisan Panmanee, who took up the post of the island’s top-ranking policeman as the Phuket Provincial Police Commander in October, declined to comment.

The news of Phuket’s improved ranking also comes hot on the heels of United Nations report issued by the World Health Organisation that branded Thailand as the deadliest country in Asean for road accidents.

The report showed the

death rate per 100,000 population in Thailand was 32.7, far ahead of Vietnam which came second at 26.7. Singapore was the safest at 2.8.

The figure for Thailand was up marginally from 32.6 in the last WHO survey three years ago, when the country had the second-highest road fatality rate in the world, behind only Libya.

The road-death rate in Libya fell to 26.1 per 100,000 in the latest survey. Only a handful of countries worldwide fared worse than Thailand in the new survey, among them Liberia at 35.9 and Democratic Republic of Congo at 33.7 Only Brunei was not included among Southeast Asian states surveyed in the WHO’s Global Status Report on Road Safety, based on a comprehensive analysis of data from 2016.

The news also comes while road-improvement projects both on Thepkrasattri Rd in Srisoonthorn and on Patak Rd over Kata Hill from Chalong

A map by ThaiRSC identifies the road accident black spots on the island. Image: Google Maps / ThaiRSC Circle have left dozens of people injured due to poor signage and dangerous incomplete road resurfacing, and while provincial officials draw up their battle plans for the Seven Days of Danger road-safety campaign for the New Year.

Regardless, Dr Wiwat urged people to mindful that, “Actually the road is in danger every day. It is not only ‘Seven Days’ of danger. If you are drunk, please don’t drive. Don’t drive too fast, and allow enough time for your journey. Also, every motorbike rider should wear a helmet, it will save your life,” he said. thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Driver confesses to deadly Chalong U-turn

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The dolphin has died of ’natural causes’, experts say. Photo: ThaiWhales

Tavee Adam reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

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he woman who made a sudden U-turn on Chao Fa West Rd in Chalong late at night on Nov 28, resulting the deaths of two tourists on a motorbike, has confessed to driving carelessly, police have confirmed.

The driver of the car, Sudapon Nontawat, made the U-turn near the entrance to Land & Houses Park Phuket on Chao Fa West Rd at 11:30pm.

The tourist riding the motorbike, 26-year-old Amine Halimi from Algeria, was unable to avoid the collision.

Mr Halimi and his passenger Zehre Yalcinkaya both died in the impact.

Sudapon was taken to hospital after the accident, but was discharged last week and presented herself at Chalong Police Station last Sunday (Dec 9), confirmed Lt Col Thada Sodarak, the investigating officer from the Chalong Police.

“Sudapon confessed that she drove carelessly and crashed with the two tourists on the motorbike,” Col

Rescued dolphin dies from ‘natural causes’

The driver of the car, Sudapon Nontawat, will be charged for reckless driving causing death, police confirmed on Tuesday (Dec 11). Photo: Ruamjai Kupai Foundation Thada told The Phuket News on Tuesday (Dec 11).

However, Col Thada added that no preliminary charges have been pressed against Sudapon.

“Even though she confessed, we must still conclude the investigation and hand the case to the public prosecutor for further action,” he explained.

Col Thada added that the case should be simple. “Police have CCTV video footage of

the accident,” he said.

Chalong Police Chief Col Pakkayot Tanongsak told The Phuket News last Friday (Dec 7) that police had Sudapon tested for alcohol and drugs after the accident, but that officers had yet to receive the results of the tests.

Col Pakkayot dismissed the importance of the Phuketregistered Toyota Camry that Sudapon was driving still bearing red 'dealership' li-

Captain, crew and guide all charged for tourist slashed by boat propeller P O L I C E H AV E C O N firmed that the boat captain, his boat crewmen assistant and the tour guide present when a Chinese tourist had her legs slashed by a tour speedboat propeller at Phi Phi Island on Dec 1 have been charged and are currently in detention.

The tourist, 39-year-old Jang Sia Dan, suffered deep lacerations to both legs, with the her leg slashed to the bone, as she got off the back of the boat while it was reversing to moor at Pileh Bay. She was rushed to Phi Phi Hospital for emergency treatment, then sped back to Phuket for extensive treatment at Vachira Hospital Phuket in Phuket Town.

Ms Jang had boarded the speedboat tour with 19 other Chinese tourists from Phuket earlier that morning.

Lt Col Worawut Yamaree, Deputy Commander of the Koh Phi Phi Police, confirmed to The Phuket News last Thursday (Dec 6) that the 26-year-old speedboat captain Chatchai Khacharoen and his crewman, Yingyong Khongkhamsuk, also 26, have been charged with recklessness causing serious injury to @thephuketnews

Police confirmed that the captain, crewman and the tour guide have all been charged for recklessness causing serious injury and are being detained. Photo: Phuket TAC another person.

Likewise, the tour guide, who has not been named, has also been charged with recklessness causing serious injury, Col Worawut said.

“The investigation by police is complete and the boat has now been handed over to the Marine Department for their officers to check that it is legal and meets safety requirements,” he added.

Col Worawut also confirmed that compensation for the injuries was already being arranged, but said he could not confirm any more details as the insurance representative had yet to provide him with a comprehensive update.

“The insurance representative is currently in Phuket, and has yet to get back to me,” he added.

Snr Sgt Maj Pichit Puangsaprang of the Phuket Tourist Police told The Phuket News that Ms Jang’s condition was improving.

“Doctors are carrying out a series of operations on her right leg as part of the bone in her upper right thigh was cut away in the incident,” he said.

“Right now, doctors are waiting for her to recover from one operation so they can continue with the procedure in a few days,” Snr Sgt Maj Pichit said.

Tavee Adam

cence plates at the time of the accident.

Under Thai law it is illegal to drive a vehicle with such licences plates after dark or out of the province.

“This is not a major factor.

She will be fined for driving a vehicle with this kind of plate at night too, but the main charge is reckless driving. Police will charge her with reckless driving causing death,” Col Pakkayot said.

THE DOLPHIN RECOVered from Nai Yang Beach late last month has died from natural causes, volunteer experts at the Phuket Marine Biological Centre (PMBC) have announced.

The news was posted on the ThaiWhales Facebook group page last Saturday (Dec 8). “We thank all volunteers, Thai and foreign, who sacrificed their time and energy to come and help the ‘Binlady’ striped dolphin, but eventually this dolphin died peacefully,” said the post.

The report noted that the dolphin had died from an infection. However, the report did not mention a previous claim by a volunteer assisting in caring for the dolphin at the PMBC – but not a member of ThaiWhales – that the dolphin had vomited plastic, a claim

that has now been retracted by the person who posted it online along with a photo showing the white substance expelled by the dolphin.

“An autopsy revealed that the dolphin died of natural causes. There was nothing strange found in its gastrointestinal system and its lymph nodes along its body were swollen, which shows an infection. Specifically, in its lungs, liver, and pus was found in its intestines. Staff have kept its parts for laboratory examination,” the post said.

At last report, a staffer at the PMBC – on condition of anonymity – told The Phuket News, “The pieces of plastic (reported) in previous news has not yet been confirmed.

We need to check and confirm it in the lab first.”

The Phuket News

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PHUKET NEWS

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Safety, waste hits agenda

US Ambassador raises key issues in visit to Phuket The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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U

S Ambassador to Thailand Peter Haymond this week raised the issues of tourists’ safety and environmental issues, namely waste management, during a formal visit to Phuket Provincial Hall on Tuesday (Dec 11).

Amb Haymond was welcomed by Phuket Vice Governor Prakob Wongmaneerung, who said, “I am pleased to have the opportunity to welcome Mr Peter Haymond as the US ambassador to exchange opinions and discuss the problems in Phuket.

“The US embassy is interested in Phuket because it is a popular tourist destination. As the number of tourists coming

US Ambassador to Thailand Peter Haymond raised the issues of tourists’ safety and environmental issues, namely waste management, during his visit to Phuket yesterday (Dec 11). Photo: PR Dept to Phuket is high, it leads to problems with waste and waste management,” he added.

According to the report by the Phuket office of the Public Relations Department, V/Gov Prakob explained that some steps had been to mitigate

the growing waste problem in Phuket.

“The Phuket Governor has assigned the relevant agencies to set the campaign to invite people to separate wet and plastic waste,” he said.

“Also, Phuket currently

has a municipal wastewater system, but it does not cover all the province. We plan to solve this problem by increasing the number of sewers to cover all of Phuket,” he said.

The PR report also noted V/Gov Prakob explained that the tsunami warning system in Phuket comprises 19 warning towers linked to sensors in the sea.

“It is fully operational,” he said.

According to the report, Amb Haymond expressed his happiness in coming to Phuket.

“I am very happy to come to Phuket. I would like to thank Phuket Vice Governor for his time to share ideas with each other,” Amb Haymond said, according to the report.

“Every time I come to

Thailand, Phuket is the first place I think about, because Phuket is famous around the world about beautiful culture and delicious food,” he added.

“And we would like to thank the Thai and Phuket governments for their support of creating a commercial environment to attract investors, IT companies and small companies from the United States,” Amb Haymond noted.

“Most of them have chosen to set up in Phuket because Phuket was regarded as Phuket's Smart City,” “The United States is concerned about the safety of tourists and environment issues. We thank the officials of Phuket for taking care of tourists,” the PR report quoted Amb Haymond as saying.

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Police seized the homemade firearm, which works on the same principle as the age-old musket. Photo: Thalang Police

Report of illegal firearm ends with ‘musket’ arrest OFFICERS ACTING ON A tip-off that a man on a rubber plantation in Srisoonthorn, Thalang, had an illegal firearm were in for a surprise on Monday (Dec 10) when they arrived to find the suspect in possession of a homemade musket.

Thalang Police Chief Lt Col Theerawat Liamsuwan and fellow officers moved on the location given in the tip-off, a hut in the middle of a rubber plantation in Moo 2, Srisoonthorn, at 3pm and placed under arrest 32-yearold Kumthorn Kongpun, who had been hired as the property caretaker.

Asked if he had any firearms in his possession, the amiable Mr Kumthorn openly admitted that he had, and explained that he kept it hidden under a nearby tree behind the hut.

He even showed the officers where the gun was kept, pro-

ducing the homemade firearm with its 46-inch barrel.

Officers also found – and seized – a plastic bag containing steel “musket balls” and another plastic bag containing 16 grams of saltpeter. Both were found in a blue bag in the hut.

The off icers took Mr Kumthorn to Thalang Police Station, where he was charged possession of an illegal firearm and illegal possession of ammunition.

Mr Kumthorn told police that he bought the gun from a “Mr Bob” for B1,500 one month ago. However, he was unable to give police Mr Bob’s full name.

He also explained that he bought the steel balls and the saltpeter at a market in Phuket Town.

Police reported that they are now working on tracking down Mr Bob for selling illegal firearms.

Eakkapop Thongtub thephuketnews

Opinion 6

OPINION

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CHRIS HUSTED

Executive Editor

084 307 7408 execeditor@classactmedia.co.th Fifteen years working in news and covering local issues and events in Phuket, with 18-month hiatus spent working for the Brunei Times on Borneo. From Queensland, Australia; 10 years living in the UK before moving to Phuket in 2000. Degree in business management. Spare time spent sailing or with family.

DAVID JACKLIN

Lifestyle Editor

editor1@classactmedia.co.th Twenty years experience in the I n t e r n a t i o n a l m e d i a m a r ke t , creating content for Paramount Pictures, Mar vel and the BBC. Having previously lived on the island, David returned to cover regional lifestyle and cultural stories.

He originates from the UK.

TANYALUK ‘MANGO’ SAKOOT

EDITORIAL

A gun for all seasons

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he arrest of a lone rubber plantation caretaker this week delivered a surprise for police. Not in that he was in possession of an illegal firearm. That they already knew from a tip-off.

It was that he had hidden behind his hut in Srisoonthorn, central Phuket, a home-made musket. Yes, a musket – just like one from the late Middle Ages, but this one home-made using more modern equipment.

Farm and country folk the world over all have firearms for many good reasons, and that rightly did not seem to be the issue in the arrest this week.

The caretaker, Mr Kumthong, acted affably toward police and held nothing back in telling them exactly what he had and handed the firearm over immediately. In kind, the police still arrested and fined him – but more importantly seized the weapon.

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tion seems to be literally dodging a bullet. These illegally made firearms are becoming increasingly more professional in their creation, and so much more easily ordered online through social platforms.

Thank heavens the nation has yet to catch the seemingly Western-disease of sporadic indiscriminate killings, the likes of mass public shootings. Although Thailand has murders aplenty, a huge percentage are always attributable to direct personal conflict: a failed romantic relationship, a dispute over money, or otherwise.

Praise to the police for chasing down the tip-off that landed the musket this week.

That’s one more gun that can’t be used to cause irreparable harm. Phuket in recent years has remained a safe haven from violent gun crime. Let’s keep it that way.

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Phuket speedboat captain, crewman and guide all charged for Chinese tourist slashed by Phi Phi tour boat propeller Man found hanged after seeing partner with another man Phuket Opinion: A testament to life Langham’s Splash Beach Resort Phuket hosts largest Indian wedding in Thailand Phuket sets for ‘Constitution Day’ public holiday long weekend New tax law to see online, bank transfers to be monitored Thailand worst in Asean for road deaths Phuket roads to close for Bike Un Ai Rak Full Time: Expat community reels over death of Matthew Pond Police search for man missing at Phuket reservoir

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HAVE YOUR SAY

Reporter

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The ongoing drug busts – petty and large – throughout the year, landed a firearm of one type or another on the vast majority of occasions. Most of these were among youths, and many were the “Thai Pradit” variety: a home-made handgun designed to fire a shotgun cartridge. Simple, but just as deadly as the factory version.

The sheer number of these so-called “home-made” guns turning up on Phuket is worrying. At this stage it is difficult to assess just how far a person would be from the nearest firearm at any point on the island.

Of more concern is how freely they are ending up in the hands of youths and drug dealers. This appears to be more for show than actual use, but youths and drug dealers are not renowned for their patient temperament.

On the gun issue, the na-

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

Men at work

Re: Thailand worst in Asean for road deaths Not surprising. Actually enforcing traffic laws is work!

All the paperwork after someone is ticketed for reckless driving, speeding, tailgating, running red lights, etc. It’s work. Have you ever seen someone pulled over? It’s a shame there’s no one who’s paid to do this.

Foot Anyone who has driven on Thai roads already knows this. Driving standards are abysmal, common sense by Thai road users is as rare as rocking horse s**t. Thai police enforcement is even worse.

I went through a road block the other day, white folks on motor bike pulled over. Thais with no crash helmets, 3 or 4 on a bike and under-age not stopped, they have no money.

Shwe

MI555

Re: Phuket Police ‘stopand-search’ nets 142k pills of meth, 3kg of ‘ice’ ... Undercover operations?

With plain clothes undercover RTP officers on every drugs

bust photo in newspapers?

Give me a break. Not talking about present ‘undercover’ operations, but how about these in the past? We never hear about a drugs factory bust, do we? Never hear of arrests of the multi-millionaire drugs bosses supporting influential Hi-So. So, what are you excusing here now?

Kurt

Freebies

Re: VAT refund has academic ‘speechless’ Thaksin was the only Prime Minister in Thailands’ history to ever win re-election and still to this day (despite being a convicted criminal living in exile) retains huge political followings, mainly among the rural poor. How did he do it? By handing out huge quantities of free rice paid for from his own personal fortune, that’s how. This kind of bribery of the poor masses wins elections.

CaptainJack69

Sea change

Re: Hundreds turnout for Thailand Environment Day Karon Beach cleanup Congratulations on their

work, it’s essential that more people become aware of what they do with any waste, especially if it’s going to wash into the sea. I often wonder how pristine the seabed and waters must have been 50-100 years ago? Like paradise until man started to be so irresponsible in poisoning the planet.

LES

For the record

Re: New tax law to see online, bank transfers to be monitored It’s a real thing. There are thousands of people running online businesses, that take hundreds of deposits to personal Thai bank accounts each month, and do not declare or pay any tax. Including those with condos on Airbnb. Now they have a problem. Anyone who thinks the Thai government is too lazy or stupid to chase tax better think again.

Winfield

Marine Safety

Re: Chinese woman on Phi Phi tour slashed by speedboat propeller Quite frankly it’s an absolute miracle there aren’t many more serious accidents as

they really are cowboys. The same as the van drivers. You see them flying around blind corners in Boat Lagoon channel at full speed on low tide… nuts! I’ve seen two of them flung off into the mangroves.

Do not even attempt to make an argument about boat safety.

Pauly44

Bag breakdown

Re: 7-Eleven, Tesco, Central join ‘No plastic bags’ campaign for Thai Environment Day I guess the message didn’t get out to the 7-Eleven in Kamala. They were happily handing out bags yesterday.

As if one day is going to make a difference.

Fascinated And it worked, at PowerBuy at least. I made a purchase there today and walked out without having to tell anyone not to give me a plastic bag.

A step forward.

CaptainJack69

In our thoughts

Re: Expat community reels over death of Matthew Pond Miss you mate Griffsbar

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

THAILAND NEWS

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Stirring Constitutional unrest

Parties call for charter to be amended, Section 44 removed BANGKOK Mongkol Bangprapa

R

epresentatives from political parties have slammed the coupsponsored 2017 charter, branding ‘Section 44’ of being another form of coup and suggesting that the Constitution be amended after the House of Representatives is in place.

The call came at a seminar held on Monday, the Constitution Day public holiday.

Speaking at a seminar hosted by the People’s Party for Freedom (PPF), a staunch critic of the 2017 charter, Pheu Thai, Democrat and the Future Forward (FFP) parties all indicated that Section 44 was the most problematic element.

Section 44, which was invoked during the interim charter, gives Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha absolute power in his capacity as head of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO).

It was carried over into the 2017 charter’s Section 265 but it is still referred to as Section 44. The government insists

@thephuketnews

Pheu Thai, Democrat and Future Forward parties have taken a stance against the constitution written by the regime and fully backed by its political arm, the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), whose party logo is on the right. Images: Bangkok Post / Graphics Section 44 powers must be retained and some of the orders could be made into law.

W hile the politicians agreed the charter should be amended, they had different suggestions as to where to begin.

Pokin Polakul, a Pheu Thai Party key figure, said the charter amendment process should begin with Section 279

to allow the entire constitution to be revised.

However, Mr Pokin admitted it was almost impossible to amend the charter due to several limitations. He said the only way to secure charter amendments was for the prodemocracy camp to win the general election in a landslide victory and appoint the prime minister.

Ramet Rattanachaweng, the Democrat Party spokesman, said Section 44 was the worst aspect of the charter and parties were struggling to prepare for the general election because of certain Section 44 orders.

“Section 44 is more powerful than the charter. Party membership, the police transfer and the drawing of constituency boundaries are all under

Section 44,” he said.

However, he said the most pressing issues in the charter are provisions that deprive the people of certain freedoms.

“What the MPs can do is to amend the provisions that hinder rights and liberties and pose as obstacles to solving corruption. But politicians must not create any conditions that will allow themselves to dodge scrutiny,” he said.

Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, Secretary-General of the FFP, said that the 2017 charter was designed to make the 2014 coup d’etat legitimate.

He said the party is expected to address the issue in detail on Dec 16 but the key policy will be to cancel NCPO orders that are “unnecessary, especially those that violated human rights”.

According to Mr Piyabutr, a new drafting process should be initiated and once the new draft is ready it must be put up for a public referendum.

He stressed that popular support is needed to back any bid to amend the charter, saying MPs alone were not enough to see the process through.

Mr Piyabutr added that the FFP would move ahead with the charter amendment process as soon as parliament was in place.

He said the public should be empowered to file criminal charges against coup-makers and there should be no statute of limitations for these cases if the country wants to end military interventions.

“To stop this cycle, we have to make sure those who seize power will be held accountable for their actions,” Mr Piyabutr said.

Pornsan Liangboonlertchai, a political scientist at Chulalongkorn University, said he believed a new round of political crises would erupt after the formation of the next government due to some elements in the charter.

He added that the 2017 charter was almost impossible to amend.

Before the seminar started, PPF representatives read a statement to oppose the coupsponsored charter and call for a process to have the charter abolished and replaced with a democratic one. Bangkok Post

8

THAILAND NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Relief with state assistance B600 a month allowance brings hope for poor, young mums BANGKOK Penchan Charoensuthipan

S

ix hundred baht a month may not seem like a lot to many people, but for a low-income family with the burden of raising a baby, the state welfare payment could tip the balance as to whether or not they can keep their child.

A 17-year-old mother, who preferred to be known only as Kalong, said she was under a lot of stress when she found out she was pregnant. She had at first decided she shouldn't keep the baby but later changed her mind.

She became pregnant to a boyfriend whom she had dated over Facebook for a while before they had unprotected sex. Her parents were outraged at news of her positive pregnancy test and pressured her to have an abortion.

She cried and begged them to allow her to keep the baby, which they eventually did.

She said she “could never commit the sin of terminating her pregnancy” and that her “baby hadn’t done anything wrong”. However, what she didn’t take into account at the time was how she would be able to find enough money to take

A woman holds her baby at the Foundation for Slum Child Care. The B600 state allowance to help poor families with newborns ensures her child can eat nutritious meals. Photo: Bangkok Post care of the baby.

Upon learning about the B600 state monthly assistance, she was relieved that there was a chance she could manage to survive until she gained enough physical strength to return to work.

Now her baby is over one month old.

Her 57-year-old mother, who wanted to be known only as Khampan, admitted she felt guilty she had taken her daughter to an abortion clinic against her will.

Khampan at the time wanted Kalong to be able to go back to school for her own future as her boyfriend had refused to take any responsibility for the baby.

She said she backed down on the abortion idea when the daughter firmly insisted on her stance to keep the baby.

The mother, too, was afraid her daughter’s life could be in danger if she underwent an abortion operation, and spoke of the pity she would have felt for the baby if it was to die.

With the addition of Kalong’s baby, the family now has a total of seven grandchildren to take care of. The others were born to three unemployed daughters. They left their children with their parents.

The only family member who works is Kalong’s father who trades used plastic bottles, paper and aluminium, a job that doesn't bring in much money.

Only two out of the seven grandchildren are eligible to receive the B600 monthly allowance. The money is granted to children born to poor families, from birth to three years old.

The family will soon receive B1,200 a month which will help feed several mouths in the family, Kalong said.

Ms Khampan now plans to supplement the family’s income by helping a friend sorting used plastic bottles, paper and aluminium near her home. She expects to earn between B100 and B200 a day.

“Six hundred baht may be not much to other people, but for us it means a lot,” she said.

Noi (not her real name), 25, another mother who receives the 600 baht per month allowance for raising her child, said as she has to take care of the baby, her husband

was the only one in the family who works to support the family.

She went back to work one month after giving birth to the child but ended up injuring herself and suffered serious back pain doctors said was caused by overwork.

She now cannot even hold the baby by herself while still undergoing regular physical therapy. She can walk again but is unable to lift anything heavy. She has to seek daycare assistance five days a week from Ban Seu Yai foundation for infants, also known as the Foundation for Slum Child Care.

With the baby receiving care at the foundation’s daycare facility, she could cut a lot of the costs of nappies and baby formula. She insisted the child support allowance is only spent on her child and she keeps records of how the money is spent.

Jiap, 31, another mother who receives government child support, said only one of her two daughters is entitled to receive the allowance because the eldest, 7, is too old.

She now stays at home taking care of the youngest daughter while her husband goes out to work. Jiap tries to help supplement the family’s income by helping her parents sort plastic, copper and aluminium scraps at home.

Bangkok Post

Shops pledge to cut plastic bag use BANGKOK AS MANY AS 40 RETAILers and store operators have entered an agreement with the Mineral Resources Department not to provide plastic bags on the fourth of each month.

The deal, effective Dec 4, was signed by small and large retail chains including Tops, Robinson, Big C, Tesco Lotus, Makro, Foodland, Watsons, Central Marketing Group and OfficeMate.

The retailers all pledged to support activities aimed at reducing the use of plastic bags. They also committed to launching promotional campaigns and educating consumers on the environmental dangers of single-use plastic.

Wa s t e f r om pl a s t ic s amounts to roughly 2 million tonnes or 12% of all rubbish in Thailand each year. Of that total, just 500,000 tonnes is recycled, according to the Pollution Control Department.

The department reports that about 45 billion plastic bags, 6.76bn food containers and 9.75bn single-use plastic cups are used every year.

Phattaraporn Phenpraphat, Vice-President for Marketing at Central Food Retail Co, the

A Big C shopper puts items into a cloth bag she brought along at the first of the ‘no plastic bag days’ on the 4th of every month. Photo: Patipat Janthong / Bangkok Post operator of Tops Supermarket chains, said the company began promoting the reduced use of plastic bags over the past decade.

In July of this year, the company started a campaign to stop providing plastic bags to shoppers on the third of every month at its 217 stores across the country.

“With this scheme, we can reduce the use of plastic bags by about 500,000 plastic bags on each day that it runs. Since July, as many as one million customers refused plastic bags from our stores,” Ms Phattaraporn said.

Tops uses about 200mn plastic bags a year, but Ms Phattaraporn was confident the figure would decline sharply.

Voralak Tulaphorn, chief marketing officer at The Mall

Group, said The Mall has been using Oxo biodegradable bags at its Home Fresh Mart chains for 10 years under The Mall Think Green project and also now uses shopping bags made of recycled paper at all its retail complexes.

The group uses about 100mn bags at its chain stores, of which 10% are biodegradable bags and 90% plastic.

It also offers paper bags to clients.

“With the implementation of The Mall Think Green project, we can reduce the use of plastic bags by over 20%,” Ms Voralak said.

Last year, it used 4mn less plastic bags and expects to save at least 6mn this year by adding more days where they are not provided as standard.

Bangkok Post thephuketnews

10 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Kata Rocks Superyacht Rendezvous 2018 raises the bar again World’s most influential yachting brands gather in Phuket as KRSR 2018 gets down to the business SPONSORED

K

ata Rocks Superyacht Rendezvous 2018 (KRSR 2018) is being celebrated by industry leaders as the definitive superyacht event in Asia, hailed as an outstanding success both in terms of prominent yachting brands on display and its relaxed and productive business setting.

Over 350 invited personalities including local and international VIP guests, major trend-setters in yachting and luxury partners attended the KRSR 2018 that celebrated the superyacht lifestyle with lavish events, private gourmet dinners and luxury guest experiences.

“I’m very proud of our team who created the best KRSR yet. It is really gratifying to create a relaxed fun environment where this industry’s leaders in Asia can genuinely get down to business,” Kata Rocks & Infinite Luxury CEO Richard Pope said.

“We were also delighted to add Oceanco this year. We feel they are an ideal fit for the KRSR 2018 as they are

The perfect start of the yachting season in Phuket. This year the KRSR 2018 fleet featured another spectacular gathering of superyachts including MY Xanadu, MY Nymphaea, SY Aphrodite, SY Dallinghoo Schooner and MY Sanook to name just a few. perfectly aligned with Kata Rocks’ spirit of innovation and luxury.”

Oceanco Group Market-

ing Manager Paris Baloumis agreed, “Oceanco is very pleased to have supported the Kata Rocks Superyacht

Rendezvous as the sponsor of the Owners’ Dinner as it helps us get to know both the region and the people much better. The KRSR promotes Phuket and all the essential advantages it has as a worldclass cruising destination: beauty, luxury, diversity, Thai culture and charm plus the infrastructure to support superyachts.”

As always, the KRSR 2018 guest experience included lavish cocktail parties, gourmet dining and meaningful press announcements.

Royal Huisman and Berret-Racoupeau Design made waves with its KRSR launch in Asia. They teamed up to produce custom-built multihull superyachts, both power and sail, that redefine luxury catamaran design from the waterline upwards.

Camper & Nicholsons Asia Chairman Lester Lam said, “The KRSR is a unique opportunity where owners and enthusiasts interact at wellorganised events and casual gatherings. Southeast Asia is truly uncharted grounds, and KRSR has shown everyone the region’s potential.”

New initiatives focused on sustainability were also prominent at the KRSR 2018.

SeaKeepers Society was on hand to raise local awareness of the current situation of the world’s oceans to protect, conserve, and restore where possible. Torqeedo also promoted a green ethos at the Rendezvous with its water-based electromobil-

ity, sustainability, and clean energy with its all-electric and solar powered ribs and tenders.

This year the KRSR 2018 fleet featured another spectacular gathering of superyachts including MY Xanadu, MY Nymhaea, SY Aphrodite, SY Dallinghoo Schooner and MY Sanook to name just a few.

All joined in the annual KRSR superyacht fleet cruise up Phuket’s sun-kissed west coast to feast on a champagne beach BBQ at The Surin Phuket. It proved hugely popular for the third consecutive year, with participants enjoying beautiful weather, epic cuisine, and water activities.

The Oceanco Owners’ Dinner was very well attended

by Asia’s more prominent superyacht owners and prospective buyers, while the inaugural Captain’s Dinner with Benetti and Hemisphere Monaco helped promote Southeast Asia and encourage more captains and owners to visit Phuket and the region.

Other highlights include the Royal Huisman and Campers and Nicholson opening night cocktail party, Hemisphere Monaco Gin Party, Northrop & Johnson Brunch on-board MY Xanadu, and the Media Champagne Brunch by Benetti. The media brunch was attended by top international and regional luxury lifestyle and yachting media.

Michael Howorth, superyacht journalist and presenter with Superyacht Radio, said

the KRSR far transcends what can be achieved at boat shows.

“For those who see the KRSR as a Monaco Yacht Show held in tropical Phuket, it’s time to think again. It is Asia’s most promising and rewarding superyacht event that allows yacht owners, both actual and potential, to meet with captains, managers, builders and brokers while mixing and mingling in a relaxed fun filled environment.”

The opening party was inspired by Phuket’s unique Perana kan her it age and Sino-Portuguese heritage of old Phuket Town. While the KRSR Charter Season Opening Party brought the Rendezvous to a close in grand style, celebrating the start of Phuket’s yachting season with a Mediterranean lifestyle theme enjoyed by all.

It is one of the most important dates on Phuket’s maritime calendar and delivered another fantastic evening of hip entertainment and cool sounds for the VIP guests in attendance.

Popular singer Eka Liu performed a lively set on a stage set up in the middle of Kata Rocks signature 35-metre infinity pool. It provided an ideal showcase for SeaJet’s high-performance state-of-the-art jet watercraft as it circled the pool during her masterful performance.

The KRSR smartphone application made its debut this year and helped participants enjoy fuller and richer experiences at this year’s Rendezvous. Yachting brands were curious how the app will help shape the future of superyacht event management and technology in years to come.

The success of this years’ KRSR 2018 reflects Infinite Luxury’s development strategy launched three years ago to place Phuket on the global superyacht map. The KRSRs’ position as the definitive superyacht event is Asia is secure through its invitation selection process for attendees, sponsor’s events, exclusive owners and captains’ dinners, plus ongoing public relations and marketing initiatives organised throughout the year.

It is perfectly positioned to remain a major and proactive player in the development of the industry, permanently hoisting the colours of international superyachting in Phuket, the heart of Southeast Asia.

Next year the Kata Rocks Superyacht Rendezvous is scheduled for 12 to 15 December 2019. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Hideaway in the heart of Patong

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

14

The secret life of tropical plants

FROM CUSTOMER TO COMMUNITY

16

An interview with Julian Lowry, General Manager at Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort

Renovated Free-Form Pool Area including Kids Shaded Pool, Lap Pool, and Interactive Fountain.

David Jacklin editor1@classactmedia.co.th

It’s all about communication and relationship. And that is what Le Meridien is at its heart.

@thephuketnews

L

e Meridien Phuket Beach Resort is an island institution. Opened in 1987 under the architectural supervision of Mom Tri Devakul, the imposing design of this 40-acre and 470-room resort, combining both traditional and nautical themes, sits comfortably on a secluded tropical bay between Karon and Patong.

Being the General Manager of any prime resort in Phuket is a monumental task of people management and operational logistics. Such responsibilities across the scale and services at Le Meridien turns that dial up to 11.

It’s a sure sign of the character’s experience and confidence that Julian Lowry, the General Manager of Le Meridien, is such a relaxed, genial and all round cheerful chap.

We met at one of the resort’s 10 restaurants so I could find out more about the man, and why Le Meridien remains one of the island’s key destinations for both holiday-makers and business conferences alike.

“It’s all about the people,” Julian responded, “Our people are at the heart of

the hotel. Our retention of staff is high, with some having been with the resort since its opening over 30 years ago. We have many returning guests who come year after year, and it’s part of the hotel’s character that they can rely on greeting the same, familiar staff who remember them well and provide a personalised experience. What table they like to eat at, when they like their rooms cleaned. And of course, the location of the resort helps too.”

And well it might, as this vast complex boasts fantastic facilities that provide guests with every possible requirement during their stay. Along with the diverse choices of food and beverage options the hotel houses two outdoor over-sized swimming pools that provide stunning sea views across the secluded and pristine beach.

Some of the best have humble beginnings, and it’s certainly the case with Julian. He began his career as a pot washer for a restaurant in Sheffield, England, after the owner caught him kicking a football against his wall and decided to make better use of his services.

Continued on page 12

Julian Lowry, Le Meridien Phuket General Manager.

12 PROFILE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

‘Giant Éclair Mosaic for Charity’ Event in November, 2017.

The restaurant trade became Julian’s true calling and he steadily progressed from understudy to Executive Chef, specialising in Cold Kitchen Cuisine such as salads, hors d’oeuvres, canapés, pates and terrines.

“My career was never planned,” reflected Julian, “I just fell into new jobs along the way.”

When a previous hotel manager informed the then Executive Chef that he was now the Food and Beverage Director as well, his career took yet another turn.

Many years later and countless destinations including the UK and Middle East, Julian finally landed at Le Meridien as the Director of Food

and Beverage in 2008. In April 2016 he became its General Manager.

I asked Julian about the skills required to step-up into this most senior of roles.

“Actually, it’s all about learning what not to do. You’re not the expert anymore on everything you have to deal with. You must understand the requirement and delegate. You’re not so hands on, so you have great trust in your people.

“The position requires diverse disciplines which you are consistently fine tuning. It’s all about communication and relationship. And that is what Le Meridien is at its heart. We’re a boutique hotel with 470 rooms! It’s very

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Portofino Italian Restaurant, a recipient of Wine Spectator Magazine’s ‘Certificate of Excellence’ in 2018, shares terrace space with several of the resort’s restaurants that overlook the Lagoon Pool. important to us that we have a close relationship with all our guests and provide a personalised experience and lasting memories.”

Le Meridien has just undergone significant development and has big plans for 2019. Having recently finished renovating the Free-Form Pool with new features including bridge walkways, a water fountain, Jacuzzis and a fully covered kids pool, between May and September next year they will be working on the much larger Lagoon Pool. The works include pool retiling, new design details and filtration system, plus the renovation of 242 rooms that surround this pool area, and also enabling some ground-floor rooms to enjoy direct access into the pool.

“We’re fortunate that the resort has two defined wings,” added Julian.

“We can close one half more easily for development without disturbing the other guests in any way.”

For a hotel that enjoys the highest occupancy rates on the island, I asked about the changing face of tourism and clientele.

“Over the years we’ve seen and catered for a diverse range of multinational guests. From the Russian interest, the development of the Chinese tourist trade, and more recently hosted the launch event for GoAir’s non-stop flight routes from India. For us there’s great opportunity in offering our combined business and pleasure trips to the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) audience in this region.”

With the opportunity to reinvigorate the tourism industry and to bring in clients from new destinations, are there needs from local government to meet those demands effectively?

“The main concern is the demands on infrastructure. The journey times

from the airport and to take external trips from the resort have increased dramatically, and it’s a drag for the customer. The local government and businesses need to look after the big picture, not just immediate commercial returns. In addition, luxury goods are expensive here in Phuket. We need to continually develop quality experiences for our guests across the island.”

If not busy enough Julian and his team also support a wide range of ecotourism initiatives and local charitable efforts. The hotel’s Serve 360 program was set up to ‘do good in every direction’. This includes projects such as Helmet Heroes providing much needed protection to the 93% of children on this island who do not wear helmets on motorbikes to school every morning, and Child Watch Phuket, which supports much needed scholarships for the poorest to attend learning programs and universities.

Julian expressed the staff’s interest in actively looking for specific local projects that generate the most benefit.

To date Le Meridien has supported 10 schools with their in-house engineering team by constructing new buildings such as libraries, as well as providing furniture and basic equipment needs.

The hotel has been proactive in its conservation efforts, introducing paper straws across their site, as well as using alternatives to plastics for bottles in all guest rooms.

Julian Lowry is a General Manager with a strong sense of the importance of customer and community. Not only is this evident across the values and service at Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort, his team’s efforts are reaching far and wide to the island community at large.

Le Meridien Phuket - +66 76 370 100 lemeridienphuketbeachresort.com

Harvest Day at the resort’s converted Herb Garden last month.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

DINING 13

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Elegance on the avenue Bringing a little piece of authentic Paris to Phuket David Jacklin editor1@classactmedia.co.th

F

or those of us armed with a prudent palate and on the look out for culinary flare, French cuisine is always high on the agenda. What we desire most is authenticity… a dish and service that takes one back to that wonderful little bistro in Montmartre.

The recently departed Joël Robuchon, the most Michelin decorated and influential French chef of the postnouvelle cuisine era, claimed, “When a dish works, it works for everyone, whether you’re Asian, European, African, American or anybody else.”

Thanks then to Little Paris, bringing the art of a French kitchen along with its restaurant ambiance and making it work on our island for expats and Thais to enjoy.

Mario Ninotta, the owner at Little Paris, French restaurant and bistro, studied 14 years ago as a chef in the prestigious La Meloise culinary school, learning traditional French cuisine to a fine art.

He first came to Phuket in 2015 for a holiday. By the end of it he had fallen in love with the island, contacted an estate agent, and left with a contract for two connected shop units on Boat Avenue.

The following year Mario came back with an interior designer, created a cool

From Burgundy to Boat Avenue. Mario Ninotta bringing a piece of home to the Little Paris Bistro.

@thephuketnews

Australian Lamb Shanks – A hearty feast of an affair. and classic restaurant environment with an oh-so French atmosphere, and duly opened the doors on December 1, 2016.

Mario’s need was to create a bistro with ‘the French touch’ and attention to detail. Serving his local expat and wider community with French quality fare was his ideal, delivering a quintessential experience of how a restaurant ‘has’ to be in France. From how the table is meticulously laid out, the accompanying condiments and bread, to the consistent service that ensures the whole party eat together and enjoy the social aspect of a great dining experience.

Mario is supported in this ongoing quest by his partner, Anna Simard, Manager Jerome Ciambella and their Thai staff manager, Chanel.

It’s clear that this winning team are creating both a congenial space and menu to delight the foodie community.

The diverse and sophisticated menu has all the usual suspects you might care to expect in a quality French establishment. But Little Paris goes far beyond this.

Veal Stew is a very important dish to his fellow countrymen, and Mario’s creation is a popular choice with both the regulars and homesick fine-dining seekers on the island.

The menu also boasts international classics served with the detail of a French chef. Their slow cooked Australian Lamb Shanks, served with fried vegetables, would delight any international traveller in search of a hearty spread.

Mario happens to be half-Italian, and fortunately for us the skills of this passionate multi-national is not lost here. The restaurant serves an array of authentic pizza and pasta offerings.

There is even a selection of Thai classic dishes that are served with quality ingredients and an attention that these wonderful local delights demand.

If the descriptions above have not got you jumping on your scooter and heading down to Boat Avenue, the Patisserie Chef also creates all the

baked goods, such as fresh baguettes, croissants and pain au chocolat... just as you’d expect from a fine French eatery.

Little Paris has a warming, heartfelt community feel with a professional service and exceptional menu.

Along-side the more private tables that sit both within the restaurant and along its terrace, there is also a beautiful, long wooden table for the more open and friendly culture of gettogethers over food.

It’s all so well received that Mario is looking to open a Little Paris in Bangkok too.

As I leave, Mario and Anna are busy with the next project on their Eiffel Tower of a to-do list. Creating the special menu for their forthcoming New Year’s Eve event. I, for one, would be delighted to see in 2019 with any number of Mario’s exquisite dishes, a hearty red libation as accompaniment, and wishing my cosmopolitan friends une bonne année.

Little Paris Phuket Boat Avenue Cherng Talay Tel: 076 324 030 www.littleparisphuket.com

14 TRAVEL

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

A quiet haven, yet only a stone’s throw from the nightlife of Patong.

The Sino Bar restaurant presents a quality and diverse menu.

Andaman Embrace

A charming and surprisingly peaceful hideaway in the heart of Patong David Jacklin editor1@classactmedia.co.th

A

trip to Patong can seem a daunting affair for a less-than-patient and rather cantankerous middle-aged expat. We’ll scoff at the behaviour, deny having been there for months, knowing full well by midnight we’ll be howling in the karaoke bars and heading to the neon underbelly like a moth to the flame.

Nevertheless, finding comforting accom-

modation and a haven for one’s own disposition is essential to settle the nerves in this twilight town.

I needn’t have fretted, because my refuge was the Andaman Embrace Patong.

This quiet gem in the heart of Patong gives an immediate air of calm and rest from the surrounding mayhem, enhanced by its understated Sino-Portuguese style and architectural details.

Andaman Embrace is a 200-plus room hotel situated in Soi Hatpatong. It’s certainly not modern, but there’s charm in its older style, and most importantly, it is well maintained and spotlessly clean.

Without a single exception over my two-night stay, the entire staff in the lobby to the eateries and facility areas were attentive, happy and eager to ensure I was enjoying my visit. Even the room staff were beaming and greeted me with a sincere ‘hello’ on each occasion. I’ve been in high-end luxury resorts with staff as cheery as a bulldog chewing a wasp, and it leaves an unpleasant aftertaste. The enjoyment of staying in a hotel with genuinely positive staff cannot be underestimated, and Andaman Embrace excels.

The rooms and restaurants hug a sizeable shell-shaped pool and lounging area equipped with the essential pool bar. Perfect to relax around or entertain the children ahead of the evening adventure into the town beyond. It’s also a skip and a jump away from Patong Beach, giving easy options to enjoy all this thriving tourism centre has to offer from its central location.

As well as being located within a 10minute stroll to all the main attractions in Patong, the immediate local area is also of interest, with a range of restaurants and noted seafood eateries, shopping areas and bars. In particular the brand new Pots Pints & Tikis bar on the corner of the soi is a funky little craft beverage house that is more than worth

Rooms are spacious, chic and modern.

a few visits during your stay.

I met with the very winsome Hotel Manager, Pornrat Genprasertsiri, in Lim’s Coffee Lounge, an on-site beverage shop serving excellent baked fare and cakes made by the restaurant chef.

“Patong’s busy nightlife and hustle is very popular,” Mr Pornrat said, “and our hotel allows easy access to these entertainments. But it also provides a quiet location to head back to away from the nightclubs, noise and street pollution.

Our guests will not be disturbed here.

“This is a real attraction to our offering because we are focused on the family traveller. We have a Kid’s Club, play facilities on site, and of course we’re conveniently located within five minutes to the beach.”

Mr Pornrat is right. From the hotel you can easily stroll to all the hotspots as well as hide away in the hotel’s peaceful respite. I can’t dispute their own marketing strap-line in summation of this pleasant and modestly priced hotel at the centre of our island’s tourism hub – Incredible Value, Unbeatable Location.

Yes, this is certainly true, but its staff and charm will ensure you leave with a genuine embrace and more.

Andaman Embrace Patong 2 Hatpatong Rd, Patong Tel: +66 (0) 7637 0000 Email: info@andamanembrace.com thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

EVENTS 15

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous An International Showcase for Thailand’s Yachting and Luxury Lifestyle Monte Carlo Yachts.

Andy Dowden

R

esulting from a fusion of Thailand’s three successful maritime events, Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous will take place at the awardwinning Royal Phuket Marina from 10-13th January 2019 and is set to become the biggest luxury event in the region.

As well as showcasing over 50 premium yachts in the marina, the show will feature the world’s most exotic car companies, luxury properties, exquisite timepieces, furniture, high fashion, accessories, bespoke travel organisers and a delicious array of classic Thai street food and international fine dining.

The Christofle Yacht Style Awards 2019 which recognises excellence and creative flair in motor and sailing yachts within Asia-Pacific will take place at a gala dinner event.

For four days, Royal Phuket Marina will be transformed into a bustling hub for all things luxury, highlighting Phuket as one of Asia’s premier cruising destinations and guaranteeing maritime heaven for leisure boating enthusiasts, with luxury yacht models from the region’s leading brokers. A healthy mix of high-net-worth buyers, sellers and aspiring yacht owners with

@thephuketnews

Royal Phuket Marina. an appetite to spend are expected.

At a time of the year when tourists from all over the world are flocking to Phuket for some sun, sand and sea, the show will further add to the island’s lustre and reputation as the place to be in January.

The Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous will attract over 100 luxury brands and an expected 5,000 visitors from 50 countries across Asia-Pacific and beyond. The show not only caters for Asia’s growing affluence and appetite for the finer things in life, but is also billed as a multi-sensory “experi-

ential” on-water festival, with demonstrations, stunt performances, a Mariners Market and an array of “toys” to keep everyone amused.

Live interviews and seminars will be broadcast around the marina and to a wider audience on local radio.

Superyachts will be moored at the nearby Koh Rang Noi and parties interested in buying or chartering will be transported by private tender to discuss their requirements with the superyacht representatives.

Other highlights will include classic car parades, cooking classes, fashion

shows, photography workshops, art exhibitions, and a display of the worldrenowned Elephant Parade life-sized models. There will also be yacht parties and international DJs to set the tone for an amazing weekend.

The organisers are perfectly positioned to promote Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous to ensure exhibitors, trend setters and visitors will enjoy the best selection of marine and luxury lifestyle brands in a unique and atmospheric venue with a myriad of sideevents and activities that guarantee an unforgettable experience.

16 ENVIRONMENT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Planning Your Garden Strategies Based on Nature’s Lessons GREEN THOUGHTS Patrick Campbell

The aesthetic benefits as well as the natural ones can make such an experiment worthwhile.

O

ver eons, tropical plants have learnt how to cope with a range of conditions. It is worth noting these strategies.

Wherever possible, I like to try and replicate the ways and wherefores of Mother Nature. For example in tropical rainforests, and there were hilly hectares of pristine jungle in Phuket once upon a time, there are distinct micro-climates: all the way up from the understory level, where ground-hugging, moisture-loving and sun-deprived plants clamber amid the organic detritus of leaves and humus, to the canopy, where the loftiest trees are bathed in ultra-violet light and the direct caress of rain.

There are natural layers in-between these domains, but tropical fauna, like tropical flora, find them less important: most creatures are adapted to inhabit either the canopy (monkeys, birds) or the forest floor (deer, shrews, snakes).

Most ground covering plants are therefore happy to stay that way: they have sophisticated mechanisms for utilizing and photo-synthesizing the limited light (as little as 5%) that reaches the forest floor, and in any case, usually start into growth earlier than tall trees in order to make use of lightfilled gaps before they are closed by new arboreal growth. Moreover, ground huggers enjoy the greater humidity and more stable temperatures provided by shaded terrain.

Hence the proliferation of plants explicitly adapted to these conditions – ferns, mosses, ground ivy, and the whole panoply of shade-accepting plants we bring

Rainforests have layers of micro-climates. Photo: Nathan Ziemanski into our living rooms, or locate in areas of our gardens where the sun does not dominate.

I am thinking of course of broadleaved herbaceous plants such as

dieffenbachia (dumb cane), aglaonema, massive colocasia (elephant ears), hosta, fatsia, hydrangea, most bromeliads, coleus, caladium, anthurium and spathiphyllum lilies. And where will

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ENVIRONMENT 17

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Try putting tall, leggy, single stemmed plants in a pot and cover up the bare stem with bushy or understorey plants. Photo: Cherry Laithang you find them in nurseries? Normally under netting in the shade. Put them in direct tropical sun and they will react badly: either by folding their leaves like a half-closed umbrella or by showing signs of their distress in the form of scorched or yellowed foliage.

Of course there are plants that buck the trend, that try to escape the sephulchral conditions they are born into. Most vines begin life at the dank base of lofty rainforest trees, having germinated in the Stygian gloom, but then climb unerringly towards the light. Nothing will stop them, their long stems or lianas usually armed with tendrils or suckers which grasp the nearest support (passiflora or passion flower, clitoria ternatea or butterfly pea), or which themselves grow in a helix, twining round the host in a bine (ipomoea, honeysuckle, bindweed).

Onwards and upwards they go, at an enormous advantage over other plants which need to expend most of their energy in the production of rigid supportive tissue. A climber can root in humus rich soil on the ground-floor, but have most of its leaves 40 feet up in the sunny, exposed elevations, thus getting the best of both worlds.

If you do elect to cultivate ornamental vines in your garden, and they are great at covering unsightly walls or climbing obstacles, ensure two things. One, that their root system is grounded in cool, even moist conditions; two, that you understand the mechanism of attachment. I say this because some vines have little or no way of hanging on. If they do reach the heights, it may be more luck than judgment – unless of course you have taken the trouble to attach them to supports.

Some of the best of all so-called climbers come into this non-clinging category: allamanda cathartica, the chalice vine, Rangoon creeper and bougainvillea – though the bougainvillea does make use of long and vicious spines to help it hang on to its surroundings.

Which brings me to the initial impetus behind this article. Consider this: the ultimate microclimate for a plant is a pot – you can vary the soil, the amount of water and fertilizer. And you can experiment with locations; a pot in one situation may enjoy a quite different environment from another sited elsewhere. Let me offer some examples.

I have about 50 plants in large pots around my pool. Incidentally, all of them have plastic saucers which are not only waterproof but make moving containers a whole lot easier. I try to position these potted plants according to their cultural requirements: full sun lovers (bougainvillea, euphorbia millii, portulaca), dappled shade merchants, and understory denizens (aglaonema, dieffenbachia, clerodendron, caladium) and the rest.

Pretty straightforward. But why not extend the principle and use the idea of different plants and different conditions in the same container. For instance, try putting tall, leggy, single stemmed plants such as red cordylines or crotons in a pot and cover up the bare stem with bushy or understorey @thephuketnews

Broad-leaved herbaceous plants need protection from direct sunlight. Photo: Annie Spratt plants such as flowering portulacas, coleus, ruellias, busy lizzies or dwarf ixora which consequently derive some protection from the sun.

If you possess a spreading, leafy shrub in a container, you might consider putting a smaller, shade-loving plant beneath. Two for the price of one.

A lesson from the rainforest.

And the aesthetic benefits as well as the natural ones can make such an experiment worthwhile. Try

Most vines begin life at the dank base of lofty rainforest trees. Photo: Jace Abshire it! It makes aesthetic sense. After all, nature does not segregate its charges.

Patrick has been writing for ten years about gardening in Phuket and allied topics. If you have horticultural or environmental concerns, please contact him at drpaccampbell@gmail.com. Many of his earlier creative and academic publications can be found at Wordpress: Green Galoshes.

18 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Trenton Gay, Andrew Richardson, Ms Richardson and Ms Rebecca Gay.

Infinite Luxury CEO Richard Pope and Gulu Lalvani, Chairman of the Royal Phuket Marina.

Tata Young, Chatadul “Mor” Seenapongpipit and Ray enjoying the cruise to The Surin on-board MY Nymphea.

Vrit Yongsakul, Frederick Patten, Mink Yongsakul, Bill Heinecke, Dr Chettha Songthaveepol, Richard Pope, Michael Nurbatlian and Geoffrey Bond.

KATA ROCKS SUPERYACHT RENDEZVOUS 2018 RAISES THE LUXURY BAR Kata Rocks Superyacht Rendezvous 2018 (KRSR 2018) is being celebrated by industry leaders as the definite superyacht event in Asia, hailed as an outstanding success both in terms of prominent yachting brands on display and its relaxed and productive business setting. Over 350 personalities including local and international VIP guests, major trend-setters in yachting and luxury partners attended the KRSR 2018 events across December 7-9 that celebrated the superyacht lifestyle with lavish events, private gourmet dinners and luxury guest experiences.

Elena and Nico.

Ian, Apple and Jane.

MORE MARINE INDUSTRY FUN AND GAMES AT GROWBOATING EVENT Lots of fun and a good turnout at the GrowBoating networking event at Royal Phuket Marina last Friday night (Dec 7) while the Kata Rocks Superyacht Rendezvous launched the same night and the King's Cup Regatta continued on Phuket's west coast... all ahead of the Thailand Yacht Show and Rendezvous to be held at RPM in a few weeks.

Jason Wilder setting the standards at the UWCT Christmas Fair.

The team from Kajonkiet with Chris Husted, Executive Editor (4th from left).

KAJONKIET STUDENTS VISIT THE CLASS ACT MEDIA OFFICES A quick thank you to the students from Kajonkiet International School Phuket for stopping by the Class Act Media offices last Friday (Dec 7) to see how The Phuket News, PhuketLiveRadio Live89.5 and PhuketNewsTV with PhuketXtra by JP Mestanza – as well as Khao Phuket and Novosti Phuketa – all work together. A great bunch of young adults already on their way to becoming productive, responsible members of the community. Well done, and we look forward to welcoming you back!

LIVE RADIO BROADCAST FROM THE UWCT CHRISTMAS FAIR Jason Wilder and the team from Live 89.5 performed a live radio broadcast from the UWCT Christmas Fair last Friday (Dec 7). Much fun was had by all, but none clearly enjoyed themselves as much as the Drive On Live host. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ISLAND SCENE 19

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

It’s behind you! The fabulous BISP cast of Snow White looking for the wicked witch.

BISP musicians entertain the crowds at Boat Lagoon.

BISP GETS INTO THE FESTIVE SPIRIT WITH PANTOMIME AND MUSIC EVENTS British International School, Phuket (BISP) students entertained crowds last week in a wonderful rendition of Snow White, pantomime style, while musicians from the school also played an array of musical pieces for visitors at the Boat Lagoon Weekend.

Santa made a secret visit to drop off pressies for the good kids.

Oh no! He’s been spotted by the naughty kids.

BOAT LAGOON’S POPULAR CHRISTMAS MARKET HELD AT LAGOON QUAY Phuket Boat Lagoon staged its Christmas Market at Lagoon Quay on Friday and Saturday (Dec 7- 8). The festive crowds attended for a weekend of Christmas food, decorative items, arts & craft, music and fun.

Chef Stafano Baiocco & the Villa Feltrinelli Team.

POP UP RESTAURANT BY MICHELIN STAR CHEF HELD AT BABA SOUL FOOD, SRI PANWA Nong, Stefano and Um.

Last weekend Sri panwa & Baba Phuket hosted a POP UP restaurant with 2 Michelin star Chef Stafano Baiocco & the Villa Feltrinelli Team. The culinary masters were visiting from Italy to Phuket with their unique cooking style “cucina povera” in a bespoke eight-course dinner. The event will be held again on Dec 13-18 from 6pm onwards.

The Nai Harn’s General Manager Frank Grassmann (right) and James Suckling (left) opening the record-breaking ‘Great Wines of Italy’ event in Phuket.

Asa Marsh the Managing Director of Easy Living Phuket and his wife Aom.

AND THE LIVING IS EASY… AT THE RED CARPET AWARD PARTY Easy Living Phuket held a Red Carpet Award Party (Dec 7) to celebrate the newly appointed Top Ten Real Estate Agency in South East Asia title. @thephuketnews

THE NAI HARN RESORT HOSTS JAMES SUCKLING TOUR The Nai Harn resort hosted the culmination of the ‘Great Wines of Italy’ Asian tasting tour, which is organised by Asia’s leading critic, James Suckling. The exclusive event, held last Saturday (Dec 8) was attended by the glitterati of Phuket’s wine industry, marked the final leg of Mr Suckling’s four-city Asian tour.

20 EVENTS

FRI

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

14 DEC

Mussels night @ Shakers 1.2kg mussels served with French fries, your choice, your style: natural, marnière, Provençale, garlic and cream or Thai style. Reservations recommended B295 P/P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

WED

Phuket Resort between 15 December 2018 and 15 February 2019. For more information and bookings, please call + 66 (0) 7631 7200 or email zuma@anantara.com

Opening Cocktail Reception ML Tri Devakul Art Exhibition You are cordially invited to the opening Cocktail Reception of ML Tri Devakul Art Exhibition DISSOLUTION IN STEEL. Saturday 15 December 2018 at 18.30 pm. Reservations, Mom Tri’s WOK gallery kitchen, info@villaroyalephuket.com, 063 079 0994.

Come to Thanyapura’s DiLite Restaurant to enjoy a healthy vegan buffet every Monday to Saturday. Lunch: 12pm to 3pm Dinner: 6pm to 8:30pm. Price: Lunch B350 and Dinner B550.

Information and bookings call 076 336 000 or visit: thanyapura.com/hotel/dining/

Baba Beach Club Phuket Room Service Presents Heidi December 15th, 2018, we welcome Heidi who will bring her signature house sounds to Baba Beach Club Phuket. Escape to our Music Lovers’ oasis on Natai beach for an elevated weekend experience. Heidi has worked hard over the past 15 years to make her mark on the new house and techno music generation. You only have to visit her worldwide brand of Jackathon parties and or listen back to her BBC Radio 1 residency to experience her passion for music and fiery nature. December 15th from 2 pm onwards - Daytime Party .

For more information & bookings, contact us: +66 76 429 388.

Charcoal Friday Charcoal BBQ at Bodega, featuring premium beef cuts, cooked live in the dining room on our charcoal broiler with the unique sear and smokiness only charcoal could deliver. Starting from THB 1,200++. Reservations, Bodega & Grill, Angsana Laguna Phuket, fbreservation-lagunaphuket@angsana. com, 076 358 500.

SAT

Served from 2pm. Your Choice of either Roast Beef, Chicken, Loin of Pork or Leg of Lamb Served with Roast & Boiled Potatoes, 3 Fresh Vegetables, Yorkshire Pudding & Gravy. Only 350 Baht. Includes a Free Glass of House Red or White. See: www.otools-phuket.com

Beef, Pork and Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, fried mushrooms, grilled tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding – roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes – gravy, mushroom sauce, mint sauce. Reservations recommended. B350 P/P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

All you can eat BBQ Ribs night

Premium barbecue main course, including imported Australian Rib Eye, full rack of Lamb or whole Phuket Lobster accompanied by buffet of delicious appetizers.

Live music from 6.30pm. Premium BBQ. 1,700*Baht.

Reservations, Sala Phuket, events@salaphuket.com 076 338 888.

ZUMA returns to Anantara Layan Award-winning contemporary Japanese restaurant, ZUMA, returns for a third season to the beachfront at Anantara Layan

Devour our succulent pork rib set complete with sweet corn chowder, blue cheese salad, moist cornbread and finish it off with a bread and butter pudding. DJ Q will keep the soul flowing and your toes tapping as you wash down those tender ribs with a bucket of craft brews. Full Rack set B1,600, Half Rack set B1,200, bucket of craft brews B800. Reservations, SALA Phuket Resort and Spa. Email: events@sala phuket. com or call 076 338 888.

FRI

21 DEC

Brent Burns Takeover Friday 21 December “The Friday Mix” 17.00 – 19.00 hrs. - DJ K (HKT) 19.00 – 22.00 hrs. – DJ Brent Burns (BKK) - House & Tech-house. Saturday 22 December“Sunset Sessions” 16.30 – 19.30 hrs. – DJ Brent Burns (BKK) - House and Disco.

Sunday 23 December “Brunch” 12.00 – 15.00 hrs. – DJ Brent Burns (BKK) - House and Disco 15.00 – 18.00 Hrs. DJ K (HKT) – Tropical house. Drinks & food specials all weekend long. Reservations, COAST Beach Club & Bistro at Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket, coastphuket@chr.co.th, 076 201 234.

MON

The New Biggest French - Thai Restaurant open now in Nai Harn Rawai

24 DEC

Opening date on 15 December, 2018 We serve French and Thai menu, as you like. Located in Nai Harn / Rawai area. Cooking by Pascal Guedin - French Chef who always welcomes you here! From 11.00am - 12.00pm. Please call 094 807 6831.

SUN

16 DEC

An Italian Evening Enjoy a selection of Italian antipasti, cold cuts, premium cheese, marinated olives, grill vegetables, homemade pickles, caprese skewers, bruschetta and homemade breads - all complemented by free-flow Italian beverages. B1,999 net per person for antipasti buffet and free-flow Italian beverages.

Enjoy 25% OFF when you dine with four persons or more.

Reservations at Dusit Thani, Laguna, Phuket: dtlpfb@dusit. com or call 076 362 999 ext.7303.

Sala Wednesday nights: Ribs, beats, brews

Sala Sunday Night Steak & Seafood

15 DEC

6PM – 11PM: All you can eat BBQ Ribs served with salad buffet, potato salad & choice of sauces. Reservation recommended. 295 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

19 DEC

Traditional Sunday Roast at O’Tool’s

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet Healthy Vegan Buffet at DiLite Restaurant

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Sunday Roast All Day, All Night Come enjoy a Traditional Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong.

Indulge in our Traditional Sunday Roast ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT for ONLY 445 Baht! Enjoy a Large ALL YOU CAN EAT selection of your favorites! Featuring: Roast Aussie Beef, Pork Loin and Chicken. Roasted or Mashed Potatoes.

Roasted Mixed Vegetables Flavored with Thyme and Garlic.

Yorkshire Pudding and Red Wine Gravy. Enjoy Live Music from 8-late performed by our famous Two Chefs Band!

Come for the FOOD - RESERVE your table now online at bit.ly/TwoChefsReservations Check out more details on our website at bit.ly/TwoChefsEvents Reservation, Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Kata Beach 076-333-370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344-914.

The Sunday Brunch Club Join us every Sunday from 12pm-4pm for the new season Sunday Brunch Club & Pool Party featuring over 120 items including... Alaskan King Crab, Live Boston Lobster, French Oysters, Seafood On Ice, new features include Live Stations, Imported Meats, Carvery Selection, Japanese Kitchen, Tapas, Brazilian BBQ, Sumptuous Salad Bar, Delicious Desserts, Exotic Fruits, International Cheeses and new weekly selections of featured cuisines from around the world... Dream Member Price THB 1590++ Adult Brunch THB 1890 ++ Reservations, Dream Beach Club, reservations@dreambeachclub.com, 098 048 3500.

MON

17 DEC

All you can eat BBQ night 6pm – 11pm: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns and Squid, Salad buffet, Choice of potatoes and sauces, bread, buns and garlic bread. Reservation recommended. B395 P/P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner Indulge in a traditional Christmas feast featuring all your seasonal favourites as well as fine internationals fare. A live performance by Thailand’s first and only International pop opera band, Fivera, will enhance the Festive joy and cheers. Cocktail Reception: 6.30 PM - 7.00 PM at the hotel lobby. Dinner: 7.00 PM - 10.30 PM at the pool deck. Price: THB 3,000++ per person. Reservations, Dusit Thani, Laguna, Phuket, dtlpfb@dusit.com, 076 362 999 ext.7303.

Christmas Eve. Dinner Buffet & Party @ Friendship Beach Friendship Beach Waterfront Resort Rawai. Welcomes you to our Christmas Eve. Dinner Buffet & Party. Featuring - Live Blues Jazz & Pop classics with the Colin Hill Band. Children’s Chorus Carolers, Santa Claus w/ Presents for the Kids, Welcome Cocktail, Fabulous Holiday Buffet with: Imported Roast Turkey, Christmas Ham, Apple Cranberry Stuffing, Thai Seafood Special, Cranberry Port Sauce, Prawn Cocktails, Stuffed Salmon Lox and a large selection of Starters, Salads, Sides and Desserts. Vegetarian Options Available. Adults 1,900++ Children 4 - 12 years 600+ Baby’s free. For Bookings call (66) 89 728 5304 or email chef@friendshipbeach.com Chef Charlie, 27/1 Soi Mittrapap Rawai Phuket, chef@friendshipbeach. com, (66) 89 728 5304.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

MON

EVENTS 21

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

24 DEC

MON

SAT

31 DEC

Celebrate New Year Eve Christmas Eve Dinner It’s a Season to be Jolly @ Two Chefs Bar & Grill.

Spread the holiday cheer and make your Christmas more merry with Two Chefs Traditional Christmas Buffet at Two Chefs Kata Beach branch on Monday the 24th of December 2018. Two seatings are available (6pm and 9pm). Adult Rate: 1,450 baht per person; Kids under 12 yrs: 750 baht per person. Book now until December 15, 2018 and avail of the 20% OFF Early Bird Reservation Discount from the buffet price! For bookings and reservations kindly email jonas. virtanen@twochefs.com

Beach Chill Out Christmas Eve Dinner Celebration Chill out by the beach, breath the sea breeze and enjoy the sunset views, while celebrating your Christmas Eve on beach sand at Sala Bua restaurant in Patong. Meet & greet with Santa, enchanted with Christmas song for a truly magical evening.

Live trio band and special entertainment will make this night more extraordinary. At the variety of buffet dinner, you will enjoy authentic cuisine and Christmas dishes and drink, created for the occasion. Impiana Resort Patong is the perfect choice for Christmas celebrations with your family, friends and loved ones. Reservations, Sala Bua Restaurant at Impiana Resort Patong, fb.patong@impiana.com

TUE

7 Course Degustation at The Plantation Club, from THB 4,990++. Firefly N.Y.E Live BBQ, from THB 3,990++. 360 Bar Glow Party, from THB 1,000++. Reservations, The Pavilions Phuket, restaurants.phuket@pavilionshotels.com, 076 317 600.

Thai Phenomenon New Year Eve Dinner Celebration

New Year’s Eve Under The Stars

Make New Year’s Eve a night to remember; ring in 2019 in Phuket. Join families, friends and loved ones for an extravagant celebration at our “Thai Phenomenon Night New Year’s Eve Party and Gala Dinner” by vibrant Patong beach at Sala Bua restaurant. Enjoy an array of Thai delights, local Phuket foods and much more fabulous feast, created for this occasion. There will also be enchanting Thai dancers, a lion dance, lucky draw and live music to mark the auspicious night.

The New Year’s Eve celebration will end with an unforgettable countdown with beautiful uncountable firework on Patong beach. Reservations, Sala Bua Restaurant at Impiana Resort Patong, fb.patong@impiana.com

CELEBRATE WITH THE MOVERS & SHAKERS IN PHUKET AT THE BIGGEST PARTY OF THE YEAR. DONʼT MISS A NIGHT TO REMEMBER UNDER THE STARS. Where the drinks will flow into the early hours, set to the upbeat soundtrack of Live Music and DJ performances with the thrilling sights of spectacular entertainment, fireshow and midnight fireworks that light up the skies above Kamala Bay - Ring in the New Year in style along the Millionaires Mile, Phuket. COUNTDOWN PARTY & INTERNATIONAL BUFFET * 6.5 HRS FREE-FLOW DRINKS * 6.30 P.M. - 01.00 A.M. * B 2,000 Net Per Person * B 4,999 Net Per Person (With Buffet 06.30 P.M. - 09.00 P.M.). Reservations, HYATT REGENCY PHUKET RESORT, fnb.phuhr@hyatt.com, 076 231 234 #5106.

White & Gold NYE 2018 Party

Christmas Day Dinner

Raw Movement is the Key to Vitality @ Outrigger Laguna Are you a Movement Machine?

Come and join us for a dynamic physical and educational experience that will give you the Know How To Look and Feel Your Best! Your Team has a combined 50 of professional experience and are passionate about the carrying the message.The team includes Craig Burton- Nutrition, Thomas Engberts -Physiotherapist, and Rob Morgan and Optimal Strength and Performance Coach. Your ticket includes two action packed training sessions , all meals the Highlight being a BBQ dinner on the Beach, plus all Master Classes. Price 9500b Early Bird Ticket until December 19th 8500b Contact Darren 061 251 9768 darrenscherbain@gmail.com

EVERY DAY

Thailand Yacht Show & RendezVous 2019

25 DEC

It’s definitely a Jingle Bell Time @ Two Chefs Bar & GrillCome and celebrate Christmas Day with us at Two Chefs Bar & Grill Patong Branch on Tuesday the 25th of December 2018 from 12pm to 12am. Our Executive Head Chef Daniel from England have prepared a 4-course Traditional Christmas set menu dinner that will surely light up your holiday cheer! Price is 995 baht per person. For details and reservations visit our Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/twochefsthailand

THU

10 JAN

12 JAN

Join us for the countdown party of the year, with the biggest international line up in Phuket!! ‘Feat world exclusive performance by’ F A I T H L E S S (DJ SET) ‘Over 15 Million Record Sales Worldwide’ NYE VIP and Party Packages from THB 35,000 ++ for 4 persons Including **FREE FLOW PREMIUM BAR (9pm - 1am)** (Entry from 9pm). NYE Gala Dinner THB 5900 ++ (Advance booking required 7pm - 10pm).

NYE Entry Ticket THB 2000 NET (Including 1 Complimentary Drink) (Entry from 10pm). Reservations, Dream Beach Club, reservations@dreambeachclub.com, 098 048 3500

Held at Royal Phuket Marina from 10-13 of January, the THAILAND YACHT SHOW AND RENDEZVOUS combines all three of the island’s previous boat shows to create the definitive celebration of yachting and all things luxury. There will be live radio seminars, exotic car parades and activities for all the family to enjoy, including a painting competition from Elephant Parade where you can win prizes.

FRI

11 JAN

Daily seafood at Sala Bua beachfront restaurant Spoil yourself with seafood set from noon – 10 pm every day! Come and crack open some crab legs, grilled mussels, peel some prawns, rock lobsters, sip some spicy tom yam soup and toast to your perfect night at this beachfront restaurant in Patong overlooking the sea (sunset) views. Start from THB 450. Reservations, Sala Bua Restaurant at Impia Resort Patong, patong@impiana.com, 076 340 138.

DAILY EVENT UPDATES ON Christmas Dinner at ANGUS O’TOOL’S KARON BEACH Served from 1pm-Midnight Starters: Roast Turkey with All the Trimmings, Christmas Pudding. 840 Baht Per Head. Book Now. xmas@otools-phuket.com, 076 398 262.

@thephuketnews

Avenue of Stars Dress to impress and walk the talk on our res carpet and shine bright like a star at our gala dinner where gourmet cuisine and vibrant entertainment will make for a truly memorable yearend night. Time: 6.30 PM - 11.00 PM. Price: THB 8,999 net per person. Reservations, Dusit Thani, Laguna, Phuket, dtlpfb@ dusit.com, 076 362 999 ext.7303.

Boat Lagoon Weekend 11-12 January 2019 Beat & Bite. Music & Food & Fun. From 6.00 pm till 10.00 pm. at Lagoon Quay. พบกับงานแสดงดนตรี อาหาร และความสนุกหลากหลาย รูปแบบ ทีง่ านโบ๊ทลากูนวีคเอนด์ Phuket Boat Lagoon, Phuket Boat Lagoon.

22 TIME OUT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 1. What is the state fish of Hawaii?

2. What is the melting temperature of chocolate?

3. Which is the tallest bridge in the world?

4. The Pitti Palace is a vast palace in which European city?

5. Who was the last man to walk on the Moon? And in which year?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

Hard

Across 1. “___ for the poor” 5. Buddies 9. Grave robber, perhaps 14. Enlist in 15. Bring down 16. Way to go 17. “God’s Little ___” 18. Creme cookie 19. Acquiesce 20. Cruising the Colorado 23. Ardor 24. Canine 28. Happy 31. Six-stringed instrument 33. “Act your ___!”

34. W. Africa republic 36. Stand in 37. Units of work 38. “A jealous mistress”: Emerson 39. Biblical birthright seller 40. Peck at 41. Underwater exploring 45. Certain fraternity chapter 46. Stationer’s stock 47. Build up of tissue fluids 48. Less verbose

50. Soon, to a bard 51. Soaring behind a boat 56. Hand-held dying technique 59. “The Last of the Mohicans” girl 60. Call for 62. Carry away, in a way 63. Missing from the Marines, say 64. Civil War side, with “the” 65. Block 66. Getaway spots 67. Achy Down 1. “When it’s ___” (old riddle answer) 2. Centers of activity 3. Offensive missile syst.

4. Noisy allergists?

5. Proportionately 6. Acoustic 7. Willingly 8. Bratty child (sl.)

9. Small particle 10. Unshorn sheep 11. “___ Gang” 12. Beehive state native

13. Attorney F. ___ Bailey 21. Bring up 22. Graphical user interface feature 25. Here and there 26. Large lizard 27. Remove termites 28. Online newsgroup system 29. Plagiarist 30. Street nuisance 31. Action words 32. Minute amount 35. Congratulate 39. Not days 41. Stereo’s audio 42. Singer Vikki ____ 43. Rejections 44. TV’s “American ___” 49. Ill will 50. Composer Copland 52. Central American palms 53. Scattered 54. Cruel Roman emperor 55. Equipment 56. Fourposter, e.g.

57. Bubbly beverage 58. Tit for ___ 61. Blonde’s secret, maybe

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) The humuhumunukunukuapua’a (“fish with pig-like nose”); 2) 30-32°C (8690°F); 3) Millau Viaduct, France (343m); 4) Florence; 5) Eugene Cernan, 1972

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

5

movies made by Steven Spielberg have made more than US$500 million, after adjusting for inflation.

7

minutes is all it takes for the average person to fall asleep.

80

percent of a human body can be digested by maggots within one week.

11,000

Frozen in time. Photo: Maya Trahan 16 years old @ QSI Phuket Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket? Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

years is how old a deep-sea sponge from the species Monorhaphis chuni lived to be.

2 billion

US dollars of mayonnaise is consumed in the US each year.

Source: Uberfacts

This week in history Dec 14, 1911 Roald Amundsen’s team, comprising himself, Olav Bjaaland, Helmer Hanssen, Sverre Hassel, and Oscar Wisting, becomes the first to reach the South Pole.

Dec 15, 2014 Gunman Man Haron Monis takes 18 hostages inside a café in Martin Place for 16 hours in Sydney. Monis and two hostages are killed when police raid the café the following morning.

Dec 16, 1930 Bank robber Herman Lamm – the “father of modern bank robberies” – and members of his crew are killed by a 200-strong posse following a botched bank robbery, in Clinton, Indiana. His gang made off with $15,567 – equivalent to about $223,118 today.

Dec 17, 1989 The Simpsons first premieres on television with the episode “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire”.

Yuan dynasty of Mongolia and China.

Image: Courtesy of Fox Television Dec 18, 1865 Kublai Khan renames his empire “Yuan”, marking the start of the

Dec 19, 1606 The ships Susan Constant, Godspeed, and Discovery depart England carrying settlers who founded, at Jamestown, Virginia, the first of the 13 colonies that became the United States.

Dec 20, 1955 Cardiff is proclaimed the capital city of Wales. Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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CLASSIFIEDS 23

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Jobs

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JOBS Website operator

Female website operator capable of building a shopping site and driving traffic to the site via Google, Facebook, Twitter, Shopify, blogs and other systems. Will work a flexible 4 hours a day, 5 days a week. Fixed salary B20,000 + 5% commission on sales generated by the site. 20,000 + commission. Contact Ron via: Siam.serenity.th@gmail.com, 0874178715. @thephuketnews

SALES EXECUTIVE WANTED

Art House Co., Ltd is looking for Sales Executive for our real estate company. Thai Nationality with good English and communication. Please contact. Email: natcha@arthouse.asia 086 414 4559.

Villas Manager

Looking for villas manager for oceanfront properties in Ao Por * female 25-40 years old * fluent English speaking * outgoing personality * self motivated * Salary 25,000 THB + commission. Email: montha_phuket@yahoo. com Tel: 095 014 7888

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CLASSIFIEDS 27

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Buy & Sell JOBS Thai Yoga Instructor

Position available now - Full Time Position - 24 Yoga Classes per month. Wellness Skills - Certificated to teach various Yoga Styles. Additional Health Skills i.e.

Aerial Yoga, Acro Yoga, etc. - Assist with Yoga Class inquires and Retreat health consultations.

English Speaking - Thai National only 25,000 to 30,000. Kenneth Miller 0866041333

Need a governess/nanny

A family needs a nanny for a special needs child. The ideal candidate will have a background in teaching and varied methods of promoting learning in a fun way. Working 6 days per week. English speaker essential. Celina teacherphuket@gmail.com

BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE Riviera sport fishing boat

Perfectly maintained and cared for, this boat is in excellent condition and will provide great enjoyment for the next owner. Powered by twin 660hp Caterpillar diesel engines and fitted with every conceivable optional extra including True Visions satellite connection through a 42” Smart TV, Raymarine navigation system, Dive Compressor, powerful stereo system and extensive fishing equipment.

Selling to upgrade to a larger vessel. 9,000,000, Phuket Yacht Haven, sc@crone.net.au

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The Phuket News @thephuketnews

BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE Boat Rinker 290

Rinker 290 with trailer Continental 2017, engine Volvo Penta, Under warranty includes all standard equipment, less then 100 hours used. More information in link: clc. la/07hDmA 3,990,000, +66-97-175-00-96.

BUSINESS FOR SALE G UR

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Golden Business Opportunity

Brand new two story massage shop for sale with high end furniture. 10 Beds, 6 chairs and nail Salon. Great opportunity for high season. 1.2 Million THB ono, Lek, Soi Post Office, Patong Beach Road, sweet_lek55@hotmail.com, 099 362 7979.

RARE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Working Shareholder req. for a unique Phuket Business Opp. USD$75,000 (12.50% Co. Shares). ZERO Debts/ Leases/Loans etc. Low Overheads, Hi-Margins, Hi-Vol. Sales (7 Day Sales). Long est. comp. industry. 4-Us: ZERO COMPETITION … ROI: Monthly Mngmt Fee. (Job Pymt 20-30hpw) + Monthly Royalty Pymt. + Twice-Yrly. Co. Profits Dist. Genuine + Rare business opp – serious enquiries only please. 2.5mTHB (USD$75,000), Phillip Frankston, PHUKET, MvJHKT@Gmail.com, +61 80016402 (Anytime).

CARS, TRUCKS FOR SALE Amazing Deal!

2016 Toyota Vios Model E with only 35,000 Km on it. Is an automatic, with fog lights, windows are tinted already, has the plastic insert for the trunk, rubber floor mats for all seats, rain shields on all windows. Only driven locally in Phuket. It is kept in great condition and is available to view in Chalong. Only 465,000 THB. Adam 091 016 1167.

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2012 Ford Ranger 2.2 Open Cab

78,000km. Six-gear manual transmission.

Looks and feels like a new car, treated like a baby by its single owner. Engine clean as. Full set of new tyres. B500,000. Call 081 427 5168.

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NEW, LUXURY 2-UNIT LEATHER SOFA

BOUGHT IN SB DESIGN SQUARE PHUKET. LUXURY KELVIN GIORMANI SOFA. PERFECT, NEVER USED. PAID PRICE B67,500/ UNIT TOTAL B135,000 NOW B50,000/UNIT TOTAL B100,000. W2.30m D1.65m H65-90cm. 0930914502.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Flat roof waterproofing

We do flat roof waterproofing with 20 year warranty by installing quality four layer slate spotted bitumen torch foil + crack repair! Andreas Ruthe, 22/5 Moo1 Kamala Kathu, office@tcm-asia.com, 0869439834,076-385081.

28 CLASSIFIEDS

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Buy & Sell

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

PROPERTY FOR SALE GE UR

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Bkk urban living near BTS

NEW 2 bedrooms for sale: Noble Ploenchit Condominium Next to BTS Ploenchit Station, Walk to Central Embassy & Central Chidlom Dept Store. 2 bedrooms, 85 Sqm, corner unit, high fl, unblock View, fully fitted wardrobe & kitchen, aircon, bathrooms Facility: beautiful swimming pool & common area, gym, sauna 23,500,000, Jitsarn, jitsarn@yahoo.com, 0859776301.

Lovely Pool Villa, Nai Harn

Prime location, 4 bedrooms, large garden and pool, 764 sqm, Chanote title, double garage. Great family home or investment property.

Motivated seller. 12,500,000, Dean, dmuir@exotiq. com, 0857932667.

Dream Village Phuket house

2bed 2bath 295sqm land 100sqm living + veranda, compl. renovated.: new water, electric., tiles, paint in/out, windows, 3A/C, built in kitchen. 0870608400 engl/german picharly@gmail. com, 66870608400.

Villa Mission Heights big Pool

3bed, 3 1/2 bath, 330sqm living, 900 sqm land, very quite aera, 2 km mission hill golf, 6km UWC, 8 km airport. owner finance. 0870608400 engl/german picharly@gmail.com, 0870608400.

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Villa in Boat Lagoon Marina

5 bedroom, pre-school place in walking disU tance, 10mins to BISP, 30mins to UWC and HeadStart. Must Sell, Pls contact for price.

Pen, pen@mindproperties.net, +66 (0) 874658883.

RG

5-Bed Pool Villa 1.2 Rai Rawai

Villa with 4 beds, open-plan living area, western kitchen. Separate 1-bed guest suite.

Separate workshop and laundry. Pool 11m x 5m, large private garden, residential area. 0844 477247.

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House for Sale or Rent, Rawai

Cape Lam Promthep, Rawai - Nature area, beside sea. Swimming. Very quiet, just live and enjoy your life. If you want to make money perfect for building Rental Homes or Healing or Mediation center Chanote land is not the way to go. We can’t own anything here with Thai wife unless stay together a long time and can take everything so best to Rent Land and have contract with a Thai. - All houses this area some WORTH MILLIONS OF EUROS ARE ON, “ LAND RENTED FROM GOVERNMENT,” FOR APPROXIMATELY 1000 BAHT A YEAR FOR AS LONG AS YOU WANT. “You can Sell your Right to Occupy to others,” – this is LEGAL - Same as Crown Land in Canada, New Zealand, Australia and America, but still hasn’t stopped people from building expensive homes and title can be up graded with time - 12 million baht sale or 30,000 baht rent (one year rent in advance) - Almost 3 rai BESIDE THE SEA ( Zoned Yellow) CAN BUILD MULTIPLE HOMES, Healing or Meditation Center - TWO HOUSES, One large house 2 bedrooms and 2 bath, 2 decks, One Small House 1 bedroom and 1 bath 1 deck 12million or 30,000 month Andy, capt_canada42@yahoo.com, 091 823 2271.

GE UR

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PROPERTY FOR SALE

BKK condo

by Chaophya River

The Water Mark: Luxurious living by the majestic river “Chaophya”, the river of the King. Located on Charoen Nakhon Road. Beautiful, spacious condo 283.6 Sqm. / 4 bedrooms / high floor (52nd floor) / panoramic view of the city & river / fully fitted to highest standard Facility: swimming pool by the river, gym, sauna 40,500,000-, Jitsarn, jitsarn@yahoo.com, 0859776301.

PASAK LAND 3.9MB 510 sq.m.

Chanote

PASAK LAND 3.9MB 510 sq.m.

Chanote

Private location in prestige area.

Outstanding Value. Call owner (Alan): 084 0657590.

Hot sale! Pool villa Naiharn

A lovely fully furnished pool villa in a secured estate in Naiharn, 5 minutes drive to Naiharn beach and 10 minutes drive to Kata. Freehold.

455 sqm of land. Sold fully furnished and equipped (solid teak furniture and high quality equipment). phukethomecareservice@gmail.com, 0638394973.

1 Bed Condo in Laguna

Exquisite Property meets Luxury Area in the Heart of Phuket. Welcome to the Ocean Sands, an upcoming hotel development located close to the Laguna Area, one of Phuket’s most luxury and trending areas. Comprising a total of 213 keys ranging from our signature 1 Bedroom Deluxe Suite up to our well-appointed Family Suite, this exquisite property equipped with large swimming pools around central simulated beach and five-star standard facilities will become a new enjoyment for lifestyle living.

Invest with us and elevate your lifestyle, be a part of the Ocean Sands. phuket@thairesidential.com, 0872699206.

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House for sale

Detach single story home, 1 Rai of land, 4 bedrooms 5 bathrooms, 2 kitchens 1 living room, 2 cars parking space with garden and swimming pool.

Sunny, 25/11 Soi Salika, Moo 2, Viset Road. 082 377 5555.

GE UR

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HOT PRICE - SURIN BEACH

PENTHOUSE

Stunning ocean & sunset views over Patong bay-2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms fully furnished with car park & pool 121sqm+.

Email for more details penthousedicw@gmail.com

Unique Investment Opportunity

Unique investment opportunity not to be missed: 5 pool villas, big land, large entertaiment areas, parking garages and private gates. More info www.thegardenkptphuket.com www. thegardenkptphuket.com

COMMUNITY

PROPERTY FOR RENT GE UR

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3 B/R, Duplex, 170 sq/m. Shared pool, three decks, fully furnished. 400 meters from Surin Beach. Great Condition. Must sell jgstryker@ gmail.com 5,699,000, 0836450097

Loch Palm Golf Villa

2 bedrooms - full furniture - hole no 17 - Includes 2 golf bags, 2 bicycles, an exercise machine and golf membership until 21/02/2040. 11.2 Million Baht, philippe andre, Loch Palm Golf Club, philippediavel@gmail.com, 098 682 9069

Beach Front Land

3 B/R Surin Duplex

400m from Surin Beach, fully furnished. Shared pool, 3 bathroom, and two decks/ salas. 38k per/month jgstryker@gmail.com 0836450097.

* 128 meter of white sand beach frontage * amazing views * 9 Rai , Secure Nor Sor 3 Kor tittle * located on Koh Yao Yai * 20 minutes boat drive from Phuket * public road with water and electricity * ideal for high-end development * ready to build * sale direct by owner *ONLY 11.9 Mill. Baht / Rai Email : montha_phuket@ yahoo.com Tel: 095 014 7888. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

SPORT 29

Thanyapura Classic goes fourth

Iconic race route puts 250 professionals, enthusiasts to the test CYCLING The Phuket News editor3@thephuketnews.com

T

he fourth annual Classic Cycling Race took place at Thanyapura Health & Sports Resort last Sunday (Dec 9). The event is the biggest cycling race in Phuket and highly anticipated; over 250 cycling professionals and enthusiasts arrived to test themselves on the challenging route meticulously mapped out by the resort.

Cyclists had a choice of two distances: 45km and 106km, with a breathtaking landscape showing the very best of northern Phuket’s coastline.

All participants were given a race kit and event T-shirt, and 100 lucky racers also received a limited edition cycling jersey.

Ekkarat ‘Ricky’ Phantip, Head Triathlon Coach at Thanyapura, noted at the event: “As a triathlon coach, I believe in practice and consistency. It’s motivating to see the speed at which we can progress, and

@thephuketnews

More than 250 cycling professionals and enthusiasts arrived to test themselves on the challenging route.

Photo: Thanyapura how it is directly related to the amount of time we spend in the saddle. For me, building muscle memory and endurance would be the key first steps to success. We enjoyed seeing so many cyclists taking part at our annual Classic Cycling today, and we look forward to welcoming all the racers back to Thanyapura again next year!”

This year’s 106km route was dominated by Lucy Richardson for the women and

Witthawat Waree for the men, who each took first place.

Second place was taken by Nopjakorn Wanthong for the women and Samuel Lord for the men, and Daniel Amby for the men came in third.

The 45km route was won

by Nichaphat Chansuk for the women and Dollawat Luansawai for the men. It saw Krittiporn Roumjai for the women and Thapakorn Mekhmanee for the men taking second place, and Kirawan

Pussayapaibun for the women and Hem Ongsara for the men coming in third.

Thibault Gonnet, Thanyapura’s Director of Operations, shared his thoughts on the event: “As Asia’s premiere sports and health complex, we are very proud to once again organise the Thanyapura Classic Cycling, and enjoy seeing more and more people take part year after year.

“Cycling is a big part of Thailand’s sport culture,

and is linked to many health benefits. It is great to see a steady increase in the sport’s popularity. It is our mission to continue to support and organise events like this to motivate all generations to live a healthy and active lifestyle, filled with the fun of sports and play.”

While kudos for line honours were the top accolades for the day, trophies and cash prizes of B3,000 were awarded to the 106km route first place

winner, B2,000 for the 106km second place winner, and B1,000 for the 106km third place winner. There were also a number of Thanyapura vouchers and lucky draw items up for grabs.

Thanyapura thanked everyone who came out to support the event, along with the sponsors of 2018’s Classic Cycling Race, Vatemon, Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, NaiYang Beach, Born Free to Tri and Isuzu Andaman Sales.

30 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Black Sheep hold onto lead League leaders unnerved as Shot Bar misfire in top-two face-off POOL Barry Craig

M

onday night (Dec 10) saw Black Sheep move clear at the top of the Rawai Pool League in a potential title decider with second placed Shot Bar. With both teams at full strength and level on points at the top of Division A, this was expected to be a very tight game of top class pool players going head-to-head for supremacy in the title race.

The winner would be huge favourites to lift the title with only three games remaining.

Shot Bar gained an early advantage when Riky missed the 8 ball two games in succession leaving Stefan to finish on both occasions. Black Sheep’s Goh was in control against Shaun to bring the scores level.

Shot’s Harry made just one mistake in the first frame which was all his opponent Nanni needed to clear up.

In the second frame, Harry didn’t get a chance to rectify his error with Nanni running

Roses Bar remain undefeated with three games remaining.

Photo: Rawai Pool League out from the break and giving the advantage to Black Sheep.

Kevin suffered defeat to Shot’s steadily improving and impressive Pan to bring the scores level going into the doubles legs, which were also honours even, making the beer leg probably the most significant of the season.

Black Sheep’s Riky missed the opportunity to seal the first frame, missing a black to let Shot Bar in to win and allow

them to break the next frame.

A nervous Shaun missed the 8 ball with the pocket gaping to bring Black Sheep level and bring the match and, maybe the championship, to the final deciding frame.

Black Sheep broke and kept their cool in the very last leg leaving Shot Bar rueing missed chances. Black Sheep won 4-3 and look like they will go on to celebrate the title, despite having the

trickier run in over the next few weeks.

White Hart are assured of at least third place after a scintillating display of perfect potting against the Black Pearl privateers. Neil scythed down former Slovenian superstar Grega. Jigstar put Tommi to the sword, while Dave wasn’t a patch on the deadly Dum. Ben B battened down the hatches to secure a quickfire win against Bang and to scuttle any chances of a comeback.

There was no way out of Davy Jones’ locker in the doubles either, with the Black Pearl surrendering every frame of the match so far. The beer leg booty was up for grabs and, in an unexpected twist, the Black Pearl buccaneers climbed Jacob’s ladder to rescue a point in an emphatic and fast-paced 1-6 victory for the mighty White Hart.

Black Pearl’s white flag allowed Pita Bar to move clear into fourth place with an away win against Freedom Bar. Only Tom was able to muster a win against Super Ding. Freedom Bar also got their seemingly inevitable beer leg victory to make it 2-5 to Pita.

Mango Bar also move up

with a 6-1 home win against Spot Bar. Mike got his team off to a winning start in a close match with Spot Bar but from there, it was all plain sailing.

Only Spot’s Ian could provide any resistance against an easy home win.

Orange Bar remain bottom and are now assured of relegation after their third 3-4 defeat in a row. Rawai Pool League debutant, Aussie Adam, lead the way in this hard fought win for the Future Bar. Tropical Sands also look like they could be ready for the drop, losing 3-4 at home to Masaya Bar in yet another tight game despite enjoying another beer leg victory.

Division B Promotion Confirmed for Top Three as Roses Continue to Blossom White Hart BBQ looked like they might threaten Roses Bar’s unbeaten record when Beppo recorded a surprise win against Magic Mike to put them 2-1 up. However, Kevin started the turnaround for the league leaders with Roses winning the rest of the legs and looking almost certain of the Division B title with

this 2-5 win.

Stor Bar lost their first two legs against Black Bull but should now take second after winning all the remaining frames against their third placed rivals in a frightfully fast 5-2 win. Promotion is assured for both teams after fourth-placed White Hart BBQ’s defeat.

The most emphatic win of the night was at the Islander when their A team, who welcomed Wayne for the first time, beat O’s Bar 7-0 despite most of the games being closely contested.

A dramatic encounter ensued at the Stoned Crab who welcomed Islander B. The Crab’s John O stays on top of the individual rankings by beating posh Paul who’s skintight jeans lead him to miss a long ball. The fantastic and fabulous, famous and handsome young trio of Terry, Andy and Peter all won to give the Islanders a 1-3 lead going into the doubles.

In an incredible turnaround, the Stoned Crab won all the remaining frames to secure a 4-3 win.

Equally as exciting, and almost following the same script, was Pink Sheep’s match with Baroque Bar. Jay lead the Sheep into a 3-1 lead but Pikki and Pang started the visitor’s revival taking Baroque into fifth with this fine comeback, 3-4.

Incredibly, Kilt’n Haggis provided the third amazing turnaround to keep Moonlight Bar bottom in the final exciting game of the night. 3-4 to the Haggis on a beer leg decider.

To view the RPL rankings and more, visit Rawai-Pool-League. com. Even better, come and watch or join in the fun every Monday. For all your pool supplies, visit the league sponsor ThailandPoolTables.com.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

SPORT 31

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM Chelsea has banned four fans from attending matches after a barrage of racial verbal abuse was unloaded at Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling (pictured) during last Saturday’s Premier League clash (Dec 8). Photo: AFP

MAIN SPONSOR

MONTHLY SPONSOR

The overall competition winner will receive a 3 day/2 night stay in a two-bedroom private pool villa including daily breakfast plus a 90-minute spa treatment for two persons at Baba Beach Club Phuket. Total prize value: B130,000 The monthly competition winner for December 2018 will receive a B3,000 voucher to spend at the Islander Bar & Restaurant, Rawai.

EPL PREDICTIONS MONTHLY STANDINGS

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English Premier League 2018 - 2019 1 2

Chelsea suspends fans after racial abuse row FOOTBALL AFP

C

helsea have suspended four people from attending their matches while the club carries out an investigation into allegations Manchester City star Raheem Sterling was racially abused during last Saturday’s Premier League clash (Dec 8).

Television cameras apparently caught a Chelsea fan aiming racist abuse at England winger Sterling during the Blues’ 2-0 win over City at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea and the British police are investigating the incident, which has provoked widespread condemnation amid fears football is returning to the dark ages of racism that blighted the sport in the 1970s and 1980s.

Chelsea have taken swift action to temporarily suspend four fans until they have concluded their probe, with the

@thephuketnews

threat of permanent bans if they find evidence of racist behaviour.

“Chelsea Football Club has suspended four people from attending Chelsea matches pending further investigations into allegations regarding the behaviour of supporters towards Raheem Sterling during our match against Manchester City on Saturday,” a Chelsea statement read.

“Our investigations into this matter are ongoing. We are fully supporting the police investigation and any information we gather will be passed on to them.

“Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour abhorrent and, if there is evidence of ticket holders taking part in any racist behaviour, the club will issue severe sanctions, including bans.

“We will also fully support any criminal prosecutions.”

City responded to the suspensions by praising Chelsea’s

decision to take action, with the Premier League champions also confirming they are helping with police over the incident.

“Manchester City FC welcomes Chelsea FC’s decision to issue suspensions to the individuals who verbally abused Raheem Sterling during the match at Stamford Bridge on Saturday,” a statement said.

“The club and Raheem are fully engaged with Chelsea FC and the investigating authorities as they continue to examine the events in question.

“Manchester City and Raheem are committed to working with all relevant parties and organisations to support the objective of eradicating racism from the game.”

In an Instagram post last Sunday, Sterling said he “had to laugh” when he heard the remarks because he expects “no better”.

The 24-year-old accused British newspapers of helping to “fuel racism” with the

way they portray young black footballers.

Former Liverpool star Sterling referred to a story from January about City team-mate Tosin Adarabioyo reportedly buying an expensive house despite never having started a Premier League match.

“The young black kid is looked at in a bad light. Which helps fuel racism an(d) aggressive behaviour,” Sterling wrote.

“So for all the newspapers that don't understand why people are racist in this day and age all I have to say is have a second thought about fair publicity and give all players an equal chance.”

The Professional Footballers' Association said it stands “shoulder to shoulder” with Sterling and believes he is singled out for negative media coverage.

The PFA has been in contact with the England international to offer support and praised the restraint he showed at Stamford Bridge.

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Test No. 2, Perth

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Wolves v. Bournemouth

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Sunday 16th Dec Cricket

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Test No. 2, Perth

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor3@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Rawai Pool League: Black Sheep hold onto lead > p30

Australian Ray Roberts and his TP 52-design boat Team Hollywood took the overall honors in the IRC Zero Class after a close tussle all week. Photo: Guy Nowell.

HOLLYWOOD VICTORY

Close racing in top conditions wraps up Phuket King’s Cup Regatta SAILING

The Phuket News editor3@classactmedia.co.th

W

ith good winds of about 15 knots returning for the final day of the 32nd Phuket King’s Cup Regatta last Saturday (Dec 8), some exciting racing was held off the southwestern tip of the resort island as one of Asia’s biggest sailing events came to a close.

With almost 90 keelboats and multihulls as well as 107 dinghy sailors, the waters of the Andaman Sea were awash in sails the past week.

Despite winning one race each last Friday (Dec 7), Australian Ray Roberts and his TP 52-design boat Team Hollywood took the overall honours in the IRC Zero Class after a close tussle all week with defending champions Kevin and Tom Whitcraft on their Thai-registered boat THA72.

Both boats were of the same stripped down design and built for racing, but Roberts’

boat was a little newer and a little lighter and won more races through the week.

It was Roberts’ sixth win in the top flight class at the King’s Cup in 23 years of contesting Thailand’s premier sailing event.

Sarab Singh finished third overall in the IRC Zero Class on his boat Wind Sikher, the oldest of the three P52s racing.

In the IRC 1 Class, Australian Craig Nicholls finished first overall on Aquarii, with Hong Kong’s Nick Burns and Fred Kinmonth second on Mandrake III, followed by the Thai-registered East Marine Emagine of Scott Bradley third.

A Chinese entry took first place in the IRC 2 Class, with Highlead Encouragers (Judy) finishing first overall after seven races. Local sailor Morton Jacobsen’s sports boat Over Here finished second and Great Britain’s John Grendon’s Di Hard third. The three Chinese entries in the IRC 2 Class all finished in the top six in a field of 10.

The Premier Class honours went to Singapore’s Andy Cocks aboard Firstlight, with Hong Kong-registered boat Antipodes second. Third overall was Thailand’s Inthinai Yingsiri on Pine-Pacific.

The fast locally-built Firefly 850 catamarans managed nine races during the regatta with Great Britain’s John Newnham on Twin Sharks taking the overall honours. Germany’s Hans Rahmann on Voodoo finished second and Brit Neil Ayre on Mamba finished a close third.

One of the most photographed boats in this year’s fleet was the imposing 60-foot trimaran SHK Scallywag Fuku Bid from Hong Kong, but despite its speed on the water it had to settle for second place behind the smaller but also very fast Australian trimaran Fugazi with Dan Fidock at the helm in the Racing Multihull Class. Australian Dave Fuller brought up third place on his boat Java.

One of the features of this year’s Phuket King’s Cup

Regatta, and the place where the future stars of the sport are nurtured for the years ahead, was the International Dinghy Classes, which featured 107 young sailors from around the country.

“These young sailors will one day be aboard the big keelboats and multihulls and racing in the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta,” said Cdr Peera Sagultem of the Royal Thai Navy, who was also the Dinghy Race Officer.

With 12 wins from 12 races, 13-year-old Thai champion Panwa Boonak kept a clean sheet to take the honours in the Optimist Class. Panwa, who won the 2018 Optimist Asian & Oceanian Championship at the Ngwe Saung Yacht Club & Resort in Myanmar, has proved to be an outstanding sailor in the many events he has contested and will be a great ambassador for Thailand when he represents the Kingdom in coming international events.

Another consistently good young Thai sailor with a promising future in the sport is

ML Weka Bhanubandh, who finished second in the Optimist Class. Patihan Vorrasart came a very credible third in what proved to be a tough field.

Chusitt Punjamala won every race except three in the 12 contested in the Laser Standard Class to finish as the overall winner. He was followed by Arthit Romanyk and Chairat Dangdeemark in second and third places respectively.

In the Laser Radial Class, Janisara Sasha Romanyk finished as the overall winner and she was followed by Sophia Gail Montgomery and Voravong Rachrattanaruk.

The Laser 4.7 Class was won

by Patcharee Sringham, with Pitchakon Ungpakornkaew second and Nuttapong YoangNgam third.

The 420s was the only team event for the junior sailors, with two aboard each boat.

Taking the top prize in the 420 Class was Intira Parnpiboon and Paliga Poonpat, and they were followed by Chanokchon Wangsuk and Piyaporn

Khemkaew in second place, with Jedtavee Yongyuenarn and Chakkapat Wiriakitti in third place.

At the end of an exciting week’s racing, Kevin Whitcraft, President of the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Organising Committee, said, “From the keelboat fleet to the large dingy fleet in the King’s Cup striving for glory on the north end of Kata Beach, it has been a great tribute to our King, our host country and all who revel in the freedom of the seas – particularly in Thai waters.

“Not everybody can win and I congratulate those who did and I would like to tell one and all, win or lose, to come and join us again for the 33rd regatta which will be held from on Dec 1-7, 2019. The skies will be blue and the winds will be fair.”

All the winners in the various classes were presented with their prizes at a special ceremony last Saturday evening by His Majesty the King’s Personal Representative ACM Chalit Phookphasook. thephuketnews