17-02-2017 by The Phuket News

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

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FAREWELL,

GILL

GILL DALLEY OF RENOWNED SOI DOG FOUNDATION HONOURED WITH TRIBUTES Gill Dalley happy with just one of the thousands of dogs she was responsible for rescuing and transforming over the years. Photo: Soi Dog

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ributes flowed this week for Gill Dalley, co-founder of world renowned Soi Dog Foundation, who died on Monday after a short battle with cancer. Ms Dalley passed away at 1am at Bangkok Hospital Phuket. She was 58 years old. “The inaugural winner of the Canine Hero of the year award at the

2011 Animals for Asia conference in Chengdu, China, and the first nonAsian by birth to be named an Asian of the year by Channel News Asia Singapore in their annual awards, Gill passed away after a short battle with cancer,” Soi Dog Foundation announced in a release issued on Monday (Feb 13). Ms Dalley’s body will lie at her family home in Laguna until tomorrow (Feb 18). Friends and family are welcome to visit to pay their respects

between 7pm and 8:30pm. “On Saturday morning the house will be open again to friends and family from 10am for a celebration of Gill’s life, followed by a brief prayer led by monks before Gill’s body is taken to Wat Cherng Talay at midday,” Soi Dog told The Phuket News this week. “There will be another short ceremony at the temple, followed by the cremation.” Husband John Dalley, also Co-

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Founder of the Soi Dog Foundation, was devastated by Gill’s death, as were many of those who knew her. “I apologise for the lack of personal response but have been overwhelmed with condolences which give an indication of the regard with which she was held throughout the world,” Mr Dalley wrote on Tuesday. “She died in my arms peacefully after fighting to the end, as always, but this was always one battle too far even for her…

NEWS

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Army targets rental parking on beachfronts

LIFE

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Day tripping in local paradise

SPORT

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Indonesians in Asian Winter Olympics hockey

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Mid-air, U-turn flyovers to stay, rules Ombudsman in probe > page 4

Heroine remembered Gill Dalley leaves legacy of animal rights

The French tourist sitting in the front passenger seat survived, but the driver sitting beside him died in the impact. Photo: Pornthep Bunsong

Three dead in horror family holiday crash A FRENCH MOTHER AND daughter have died, along with their Thai driver, after an outof-control 10-wheeled truck wiped out the car they were travelling in south of Krabi Town on Wednesday (Feb 15). Victoria Bureau, 18, and her 55-year-old mother Beatrice, died from injuries sustained in the accident, which left Victoria and her 20-yearold companion Julien Reemy Fiara, thrown clear from the Toyota Fortuner they were in by the force of the impact. Mr Fiara remained in hospital with serious injuries, police told The Phuket News yesterday morning (Feb 16), along with a man they named as “Alain Nicolas”, age 53. Thanat Bangkwan, 40, the driver of the Toyota Fortuner, which was registered as a “green plate” commercial passenger vehicle, died at the scene, south of Krabi Airport, confirmed Lt Col Piroat Chanachai of the Nuea Khlong Police. “The driver of the truck, Boonlit Saengson, 26, remains in Krabi Hospital with serious injuries. We have yet to press charges, Col Piroat told The

Phuket News yesterday. The accident happened on Phetkasem Rd in Nuea Khlong District, south of Krabi Town, at about 12:45pm, Col Piroat said. “There were four passengers inside the car. The passengers, all French tourists, were travelling from Koh Lanta to Krabi International Airport,” he explained. Pornthep Bunsong, a volunteer of the Miracle of Life rescue team in Krabi, was riding his motorbike northbound along Phetkesem Rd when the Fortuner drove past him. “One second later, a 10-wheeled truck heading south on the other side of the road lost control. The truck tipped onto its side then came across traffic island and hit the car,” he explained. “I saw three passengers get (thrown) out of the car, and the driver of the truck got (was thrown) out too. That was not far from where I had stopped,” he said. The male passenger sitting in the front of the Fortuner and wearing his seatbelt, survived, Mr Pornthep added. The Phuket News

Continued from page 1 ...“I do understand that there are people who would have liked to have said goodbye, but it was Gill’s wish that she be remembered as she was and not in her final days.” Having retired with husband John to Phuket in 2003, from her native Yorkshire in the UK, John and Gill were determined to do something about the horrendous stray dog and cat problem they had witnessed previously on holidays. They teamed up with Margot Homburg, a Dutch retiree who had registered Soi Dog Foundation as a Dutch foundation the year before and had been sterilising dogs in her home city of Bangkok, before moving to Phuket. Working together as dog catchers and nurses the three of them started to run mobile clinics, utilising volunteer vets from overseas, mainly at their own expense. Barely a year later, Gill, who had been weakened by a broken rib, darted after a dog which ran into a flooded former rice paddy. In retrieving the dog she unknowingly became infected by a rare soil borne bacteria. She developed septicemia a few days later and was given a 10% chance of survival. Beating the odds, she did however lose both her lower legs and suffered damage to her arms. In December 2004, she discharged herself from hospital determined she would be home by Christmas. Three days after discharge the Asian tsunami struck in 2004, killing her best friend

Gill and John Dalley with much-loved canine friends. and volunteer Leone Cosens. Ms Dalley, still wheelchair bound, initially counselled survivors and relatives of victims before commencing to work at mobile clinics throughout the area. She taught herself to walk again, and for the past 12 years, except in rare circumstances, refused to use her wheelchair despite her stumps often being covered with blisters and ulcers, and enduring the pain that involved. With Ms Homburg forced to take early retirement through ill health, she became the driving force in expanding the work of the Soi Dog Foundation, including the establishing of its first shelter. Whilst husband John focused on the illegal Thai dog meat trade, it was Gill who took the lead in expanding Soi Dog’s sterilisation program, preventing literally millions of unwanted puppies and kittens being born with no future, and at the same time fulfilling

Leone’s dream to establish a shelter for dogs that had been victims of cruelty and abuse, and discarded puppies too young to fend for themselves. Over the past three years she designed and oversaw the building of the largest hospital entirely dedicated to street dogs in Asia, and a shelter facility that is probably unmatched anywhere in the world. A perfectionist by nature, everything had to be right, even to the type of screws used to attach fittings. Every building at the shelter including the cat hospital was designed by Gill, determined to provide the best possible care for those dogs and cats that had nowhere else to turn. A diplomat she was not. She had no interest in politics. To Gill only the animals mattered and anybody who failed to meet her standards was soon gone. The hard work and unwavering fight against cruelty to animals from John and Gill

gained support from A-list actors in the creation of an awareness campaign featuring no less than Ricky Gervais and Dame Judi Dench as well as Peter Egan, Laura Carmichael and other stars of Downton Abbey, calling for an end to the dog meat and skin trade. Today, Soi Dog Foundation is the largest foundation in Asia working with stray dogs and cats. Currently employing nearly 200 staff, registered in seven countries and aiming to achieve 100,000 sterilisations per year, and end the cruel Asian dog meat industry, it is expanding its operations to other countries in the region as well as throughout Thailand. “It is absolutely no exaggeration to say that without Gill there would be no Soi Dog today,” wrote John. “Sadly, despite fighting bravely for the past few weeks she faced a battle that even she could not overcome,” said the foundation.

Taxi, van drivers ordered to get licences AT THE BEHEST OF THE Royal Thai Army, the Phuket Land Transportation Office is calling for all drivers of public transport vehicles, including taxi, van and bus drivers, to apply for their commercial drivers’ licences. The call for taxi and van drivers to get licences dated Feb 10, was titled “Training and testing for public transportation driving licence (Special class)… As in the policy of public transportation arrangement to support

The notice called for commercial passenger vehcle drivers to get licences. Phuket tourism.” “The Army Region 4 base in Nakhon Sri Thamma-

rat together with the Phuket Provincial Office are in the process of solving tourism problems in Phuket for safety and correctness,” said the notice. The training and tests are to be held from Feb 24-26. “This is to make sure that tourists will get efficient service and be more confident when they are travelling in Phuket. This also is to make a good image for Phuket,” the notice said. The Phuket News thephuketnews

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Governor orders officials to probe selves for corruption The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

huket Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan on Tuesday (Feb 14) called an emergency meeting of top police, law enforcement officials and department heads on the island to order them to investigate a slew of corruption allegations against officials, mostly aimed at branches of the Royal Thai Police, and to report to him by Friday (Feb 17). The meeting was called after Governor Chockchai personally responded to a host of allegations of corruption, including against the Governor himself, posted publicly by the Anti-Corruption Thailand network. In an open letter published by Phuket Public Relations Office, Governor Chockchai said, “I have never taken any kind of bribe from anyone, or ordered someone to accept bribes. “I have set up a committee to investigate where these claims were posted, and by who,” he warned.

Phuket Governor Chockchai Dejamornthan yesterday called an emergency meeting and ordered officials to investigate corruption allegations against them. Photo: PR Dept “I will do every step by the law. If anyone has any clues about officials taking bribes, please inform me. I have never accepted tea money, or ordered any of my officers to do so, from any business – legal or illegal,” Gov Chokchai said. Called to the emergency meeting, held at 2pm, were officers from local administrations, police, the Justice Ministry Phuket office and the Royal Thai Navy, among others. “This meeting is urgent and serious and aims to ensure every official works without

corruption and is transparent in every thing they do, especially in these eights main areas,” Goc Chockchai told the meeting. The eight “areas” were specifically named in a post on the Anti-Corruption Thailand Facebook page. “First, regarding restaurant bribes, about 12 officials asking for money for migrant workers, and second, about officers asking money from foreign business people, I have ordered the Phuket Labour Office to explain to me and report to

Aussie pleads guilty to jet-ski crash

AUSTRALIAN TOURIST Thomas Keating last Thursday (Feb 9) entered a plea of guilty to the charge of reckless driving causing death for the jet-ski accident last Sunday that killed his girlfriend of two years, Emily Collie, 20, in a move that police say will expedite proceedings against him. Mr Keating was formally charged at Karon Police Station last Thursday, with strong support from his family as well as from the family of Ms Collie. “During the seven hours while investigators questioned him, he accepted a plea of guilty,” Karon Police Chief Col Sanya Thongsawad confirmed to The Phuket News the next day (Feb 10). “In his statement to police, he explained that on Sunday Feb 5, 2017 he and his girlfriend rented jet-skis at Karon Beach,” Col Sanya said. “A big wave surged while they were zigzagging, causing the two jet-skis to collide,” he explained. “Mr Keating was very sad while recounting all this to the investigators,” Col Sanya said. Explaining the seven hours taken to question Mr Keating, Col Sanya said, “When we @thephuketnews

Thomas Keating (in blue shirt) entered a plea of guilty to reckless driving causing death during seven hours of questioning by Karon Police (Feb 9). Photo: Premkamon Ketsara were first questioning him with his lawyer, he rejected the charge. At 12:30pm, we took a two-hour break for lunch. “He returned with his lawyer at 2:30pm and during the following three hours he accepted the charge,” Col Sanya said. Col Sanya noted that the guilty plea is now very likely to expedite the case through court. “Now that Mr Keating has accepted a guilty plea, this case will go through the courts within two weeks,” he said. “Accepting the charge is a good thing, because the sentence will be reduced,” he added. However, Mr Keating’s case will not be in court for at least a week, Col Sanya noted. “Mr Keating will not go to court until all the documents from Karon Police have been

sent to the Public Prosecutor, who will draft an indictment to the court and then the court will call Mr Keating to trial,” Col Sanya explained. “This will take at least eight to nine days,” he said. Mr Keating has been emotionally devastated by the accident. “I’m so broken and I know I’ll never never be able to mend…” he posted on Facebook Ms Collie’s family this week issued a statement to the media expressing their strong support for Mr Keating. “This was a tragic accident. We do not believe anybody was at fault. In particular, we do not place any blame on Tom Keating, who we care about very much and who we know loved Emily deeply,” said the statement. Yutthawat Lekmak

their own head office,” he said. “Third, about operators of illegal hotels bribing officials to be overlooked, the relevant officials must check every title deed as all hotels must be registered, the construction approved, must not breach height limits and must pay their taxes. “Fourth, about officials asking for money to register businesses and deferring registrations for those who do not pay the bribes, the Provincial Commercial Office and local administrations must check this issue and report to me,” he said. “Fifth, the Royal Irrigation Department (Region 15 office) must explain what is happening with the Klong Katha reservoir (in Chalong) to me. “Sixth, what is happening with the cycling route at Suan Luang Rama IX Public Park will be taken care of by the Phuket Tourism and Sports office. “Seventh, regarding the allegations that a bar in Patong mixed methamphetamine pills (ya bah) with alcoholic drinks,

leading to a tourist jumping to his death from a building, the Phuket Provincial Police will find out the truth. “Eighth, about officials allowing offenders, such as illegal hotels and others, to continue to break the law, will also be investigated,” he promised. Gov Chokchai warned, “Every official must explain (the allegations against them) and report to me on February 17. For all eight issues, Phuket Vice Governor Snith Sriwihok will be tasked with setting up a committee to solve these problems.” “We have opened a postbox to receive complaints from the public about corruption. We will find out the truth with further investigation by a committee and we will remove all officials who ask for bribes by punishing them with the law,” Gov Chockchai said. The send a complaint to the postbox, address the envelope to: Post Office Box 1567 Phuket Post Office Phuket Town, Muang District, Phuket 83000

Nittaya Thongthep, 52, who was driving the mobile food stall, escaped with only scratches and bruises.

Taxi driver fined B400 for crash A TA X I DR I V ER H AS been charged and fined B400 for reckless driving after he slammed into a food-vendor’s motorbike at speed before dawn last Friday (Feb 10) while carrying two tourists from Phuket International Airport. The accident happened at the Heroines Monument, in central Phuket, at about 5:30am. Nittaya Thongthep, 52, who was driving the mobile food stall, escaped with only scratches and bruises. The taxi driver, Prapot Boontang, and his passengers suffered no injuries. Mr Prapot tested negative for alcohol and drugs, confirmed Capt Kraisorn Boonprasop of Thalang Police. Eakkapop Thongtub

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More than 100 couples were expected to register their marriage for Valentine's Day.

Getting legal for Valentine’s MORE THAN 50 COUPLES registered their marriage at the District Office in Phuket Town on Tuesday morning to make sure Valentine’s Day (Feb 14) remained a very special day. The first couple to legally validate their nuptials at 9am were Thawee Sokhorm and blushing bride Gaesorn Srinuan. “I congratulate to every couple who have come to register their marriage today and I wish your love to last forever,” said District Chief Supot Chanagit. Eakkapop Thongtub

Residents’ call for normal u-turns overruled The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

onstruction of two uturn flyovers on Thepkrasattri Rd will go ahead, a national Ombudsman confirmed last week. Boon Tapanadul, Ombudsman from the national Office of the Ombudsman of Thailand and a former Criminal Court Chief Judge, made the announcement in person in Phuket on Feb 8. “The construction will go ahead as the flyovers require smaller budgets and will take a shorter time to complete. They will also be more effective in resolving traffic jams,” Mr Boon said. The Ombudsman’s Office of Thailand launched a review

Boon Tapanadul said the two flyovers would go ahead despite concerns from local residents. Photo: PR Dept of the plans to build the two flyovers after complaints from local residents. The two flyers, together costing about B200 million, will both be “mid-air U-turns”, allowing traffic heading northbound to return southbound unimpeded, and without caus-

ing delays to other motorists. One flyover will be located near the Jeeteng mansion on Thepkrasattri Rd in Koh Kaew, about 1.38km south of the Heroine’s Monument. The other will be at the Nai Yang turn-off on Thepkrasattri Rd, about 3.3km north of the main

intersection in Thalang Town. Raksagecha Chaechai, Secretary-General of Office of the Ombudsman of Thailand, explained that the residents called for the national Ombudsman’s office to review the plans. “They asked for us to review and compare the construction plans, and asked to change the flyovers into tunnels or normal u-turns,” he said. “Normal u-turns need more space, which means the plans will need to widen the road, and the budget will double,” Mr Boon said. “Construction of an underpass at each site would need more than seven times the budget and they would take longer to build,” he added.

Do Patong bars need later closing times? PHUKET POLL PH U K ET G OV E R NOR Chockchai Dejamornthan this week is to submit a formal request to extend the closing time for bars and nightclubs on Bangla Rd, Patong, to 4am. The move follows the crackdown two weeks ago that saw scores of revellers in Phuket’s party town kicked out onto the tourist-filled streets one night, and then bars and nightclubs deserted the next. The raids enforced the current law that bars must close at midnight and nightclubs must close at 1am. These closing times are for venues inside Patong’s “entertainment zone”, which comprises Bangla Rd and extends 50 metres on either side thereof – venues elsewhere, depending on their entertainment license, are supposed to close earlier. Just two days later, more than 20 Patong nightlife venue operators filed a petition addressed to Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha to extend the closing times for bars and clubs in Patong, and now the

Should nightlife venues Bangla Rd be allowed to stay open later? Photo: Chutharat Plerin Governor is to make that request official with the support from the Phuket Provincial Office. To this The Phuket News asks readers, “Should Patong night venues stay open later?” Responses available are: • Yes – but only in the entertainment zone • Yes – and entertainment zones should be set up in other popular tourist areas • No – the current closing times are good enough • Don’t care – the closing times for bars and nightclubs do not affect my activities/ holiday in Patong The poll will close at midnight on Feb 26. To vote in the poll, visit ThePhuketNews.com and sleect “Poll” from the “News” menu. The Phuket News thephuketnews

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Army targets car, bike rentals’ beach parking Benyada Sungyai editor@classactmedia.co.th

Tuk-tuk crushed by falling palm tree Officials inspect the public parking spaces in Patong that are typically filled with cars and bikes owned by rental operators. Photo: Sert Thongdee low lines and signs marking which areas are for public parking. If anyone breaks the rules, they must be caught – and the Phuket Provincial Office must be held responsible for taking action against those who break the rules,” he said. Explaining the brown sea water immediately off Patong Beach 50 metres to the south of Bangla Rd, while tourists walked along the sand but not in the water, Ms Chalermluck said, “That is from a plankton bloom as there is too much nitrogen and phosphorus in the sea water. “We believe the elevated

levels of phosphate came from water discharged by washing machines that has found its way into the bay,” Mayor Chalermluck added. “We will talk with laundry operators and tell them that they must discharge their wastewater into the municipal drains provided. “We are also thinking about growing hyacinth in Klong Pak Bang to absorb nitrogen. However we need to check first if the water in the area is suitable to grow it or not,” she added. Klong Pak Bang is Patong’s only public waterway. It starts

Immigration 90-day reporting goes offline AN OFFICIAL FROM THE Phuket Immigration Office has confirmed that expats wanting to carry out their 90-day reporting online are currently unable to do so due to server issues in Bangkok. The problem means that all expats needing to do their 90-day reporting must do so at one of the island’s immigration offices. The Phuket News attempted to access the 90-day reporting webpage on last Thursday (Feb 9) to find a message stating that the website is currently undergoing maintenance. The website was still down on

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The palm tree crushed the tuk-tuk while it was heading north to Patong. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub

he deputy commander of the Royal Thai Army’s main base in Southern Thailand has fired a warning shot at car and motorbike rental operators hijacking public parking areas at Phuket beaches. Maj Gen Pornsak Poonsawat, Deputy Commander of the Army Region 4 base in Nakhon Sri Thammarat, inspected Patong Beach last Thursday (Feb 9) with Patong Mayor Chalermluck Kebsup. “Rental vehicle operators and taxi drivers must park somewhere else. Lots of tourists visit Patong Beach, especially during the (tourism) high season. We need to take care of their needs,” Gen Pornsak said. “The car park spaces are for the public, not for private business,” he added. Gen Pornsak suggested setting up parking specifically for taxis and car and motorbike rentals and charging them fees for using them. “Meanwhile, we have yel-

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Access to the 90-day reporting webpage is currently under construction. Image: Screengrab Wednesday (Feb 15). The Phuket Immigration official, who declined to be named, said “The website is another option for those people who need to do 90-day reporting. Unfortunately, as

the website is currently not working they will need to report to the immigration office in Phuket Town or in Patong. “I don’t know how long the website has been like this or how long it will take to fix the problem,” the official said. “All I can confirm is that the problem is due to a server issue in Bangkok, it is not a problem caused here in Phuket,” he added. However, the official also confirmed that a further option for those who cannot visit either of the immigration offices is to do the report by post. Tanyaluk Sakoot

from the base of the foothills at the north end of the town near Wat Patong and winds its way through Patong to empty into the bay at the southern end of the beach. However, water hyacinth grows naturally in every canal in the country. It is a weed that grows so quickly that other municipalities throughout Thailand – and as close to Patong as Phuket Town – have to regularly remove it to allow water flow. For some reason Ms Chalermluck has yet to explain, water hyacinth will not grow in Klong Pak Bang.

OFFICIALS HAVE CAUtioned motorists and home owners across Phuket to be ware falling trees after a tuktuk driving to Patong was crushed by a towering palm tree brought down by strong wind on the Karon beach road last Sunday (Feb 12). The tuk-tuk was travelling northbound along the beach road at about 10am when the palm came crashing down. Rescue workers at the scene reported that the tuk-tuk driver, who they did not name, escaped with only minor injuries in the incident. The driver said that the crosswind was too strong, so he pulled over, and then saw the tree falling toward him and quickly got out of the cab. There were no tourists riding in the back when the tree crushed the cab of the vehicle. A pharmacy on east side of

the road, where the fallen palm tree once stood, also suffered damage from the weight of the tree crashing down. Officers from the Karon office of the Department of Disaster Mitigation and Protection began checking other trees in the area to ensure they are safe during the current strong winds across Phuket. Special attention will be given to old tress, as the tree that fell is believed to be several decades old. The easterly, northeasterly winds last Sunday averaged speeds of around only eight to 12 knots across the island, but reached up to 20 knots (37kph) in strong gusts. More strong winds were forecast throughout the week, but slowly easing as the week progressed. Eakkapop Thongtub

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‘Let me clear my name’ Masseuse says wrongly convicted of theft, urges court to re-examine evidence Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

Ms Phawitra Konggompon, 32, says she has been wrongly convicted of theft and sentenced to 10 years in jail.

32-yea r- old T hai woman from Ratchaburi province who has received a 10-year sentence for theft from Trang Provincial Court is seeking assistance from the Region 8 Court of Appeal in Phuket as she says she has been wrongly convicted in the case. At around midday last Saturday (Feb 10), Ms Phawitra Konggompon, 32, who currently works at a spa in Karon, visited the Region 8 Court of Appeal to hand over documents which she says prove she has been wrongly convicted of theft in a case dating back to 2011.

A representative of the court, Mr Chayathip Jitlang, received the documents on the court’s behalf. Explaining her stor y, Ms Phawitra said, “I need help because I have been wrongly convicted of theft and was sentenced to 10 years in prison on April 2, 2016. I was accused of stealing necklaces and amulets worth over B700,000 from a customer of a restaurant where I worked in Trang. “I need the help of the Court of Appeal in appealing my conviction because I have to take care of my young son and I have not got the money for a lawyer to help me fight my case,” she said. “I have come here to the

Court of Appeal so that they can examine the evidence I have again. Evidence includes CCTV images which officers from Hat Samran Police Station in Trang say proves I was the thief. “However, the woman seen in this image is not me. Furthermore, fingerprints taken from the scene are not mine,” Ms Phawitra said. “I have already asked police to recheck the evidence but they have not made any progress in doing this. “I would also like to have to opportunity to see the victim in this case as I have never seen this person before. Even on the day I was convicted the victim was asked to identify me as the thief,

but this was done via a video link,” she added. “This whole issue dates back to 2011 when I was employed at a restaurant in Trang and an arrest warrant was issued by Hat Samran Police Station after a customer of the restaurant had B700,000 worth of valuables stolen. “Police have never been able to find anyone responsible for the theft so last year they decided to arrest me and say I was the thief,” Ms Phawitra concluded. Mr Chayathip said that having heard details of Ms Phawitra’s predicament, the Region 8 Court of Appeal would provide her with a lawyer to help her fight this case and clear her name.

Man, 24, in ICU from car slam Swede, 52, in alleged suicide bid A 24-YEAR-OLD THAI man is in a serious condition in Vachira Phuket Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) following a motorbike accident in Wichit last Friday (Feb 10). Lt Patcharee Wongboon of the Wichit Police was informed of an accident at 12:30pm, reporting that a motorbike and car had collided near Makro on Wichit Songkram Rd. Police arrived at the scene to find a large crowd of residents gathered on the road. Close by was a wrecked MC motorbike, badly damaged blue Honda Civic and a Thai man who had sustained serious injuries. “The driver of the motorbike had serious injuries, we later learned that his name was Phuwanat Tonnon, 24, and that he had a broken left

The car and motorbike sustained serious damage as a result of the impact. Photo: Kathu Rescue Workers arm and leg,” Lt Patcharee said. “Nobody in the car was injured,” he added. “Mr Phuwanat was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, and he is now in the ICU of Vachira Phuket Hospital,” he said. Lt Patchree said that the investigation into the accident is still ongoing and it is not yet known who or

what caused the accident and whether charges will be pressed against either party involved. Yutthawat Lekmak

A 52-YEAR-OLD SWEDish man was in a serious condition at Patong Hospital last Sunday (Feb 12) after he was first alleged to have stabbed himself several times with pair of scissors and then jumped from the third floor of a hotel in Kata. Police discovered pools of blood inside the man’s room on the third floor of the hotel. Maj Patiwat Yodkwan of the Karon Police received a report at about 9am that a man had jumped from the third floor of the Kata Green Beach Hotel in Karon. Maj Patiwat said, “The man, 52-year-old tourist Mr Lennart Sundstrom from Sweden, was staying in room 301 on the third floor of the Kata Green Beach Hotel. We were told he was staying alone. “When we went to inspect the room we found a pair of scissors covered in blood and pools of blood over the floor.

Police discovered pools of blood inside the man’s room on the third floor of the hotel. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub “We believe these wounds were self-inflicted as there were no signs of a struggle inside the room,” he said. “The man is then said to have jumped from the third floor of the hotel, and when he was recovered we found many stab wounds on his body and he was covered in blood. “The man was still alive and was taken Patong Hospital by a rescue team.

“We will continue to investigate this case and will talk to Mr Sundstrom when he is in a better condition,” he added. If you or anyone you know is in need of mental health services, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand at their 24-hour hotline 02-7136791 (English), 02713-6793 (Thai) or Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Eakkapop Thongtub

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Sea gypsy village fights for emergency access Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

rovincial officers are investigating a complaint filed by Rawai sea gypsies about restaurants, shops and stalls on a strip of privately claimed land that they claim endanger the village by restricting access from fire trucks, ambulances and other emergency services. Leading the investigation is Adisorn Sawasdee, chief of Phuket Damrongdhama Centre (Ombudsman’s office), along with officers from the and Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command and Rawai Municipality. Niran Hyangpan, representing sea gypsies from the village, handed over a formal complaint from the villagers at Rawai Municipality on Feb 8. “Vehicles cannot easily access the village because of the these shops. The entrance is too narrow,” he said. “The villagers are afraid that if there is a fire, it will be not easy for ambulances or fire trucks to get into the village,” he added.

Rescue workers let the two snakes finish doing their business before removing them from the school area. Photo: Poonsap Saeueng

Snakes on the make expelled from school

Sea gypsies say the narrow access endangers the village as fire trucks and ambulances cannot easily enter the village in emergencies. Photo: Chao Lay Rawai / Krit Thepbamrung Officials at the meeting explained that the land was privately owned and that the owner allowed the restaurants and shops to rent space on the land from him. The owner allowed the

the provincial government to build a rock wall along the beachfront boundary of the land, but that move had led people to believe that the land was owned by the government, a report from

Attempted suicide by foreigner over visa, family breakup: police TOU R IST POLICE I Nvestigating the attempted suicide of a foreign man in Thalang in the early hours of Tuesday (Feb 14) said they believe the man attempted to take his own life as he had overstayed his visa and was concerned that he would be blacklisted from re-entering the country. The foreign man was spared death by hanging from a pedestrian bridge over the island’s busiest road in central Phuket on Tuesday morning after the rope broke, sending him plunging about six metres onto Thepkrasattri Rd below. Concer ned onlookers called police at about halfpast midnight after noticing the man, a Westerner aged about 40 years old, with a rope on the pedestrian bridge near the Makro store in Thalang. Just as patrol police arrived, the man jumped off the bridge, Lt Sunan Petchnoo of Thalang Police told The Phuket News. The man, a German national, has since been named as 59-year-old Dr Thomas Stolzenburg from Hamburg. On Tuesday he was still re@thephuketnews

Police at the scene of the attempted suicide. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub

ceiving treatment in Vachira Phuket Hospital for injuries sustained from the jump. An unnamed officer from the Phuket Tourist Police told The Phuket News Tuesday afternoon that during their investigation a woman, Miss Suwaphat Santhat, 39, came forward and told them she was a neighbour of Dr Stolzenburg. “The woman told us that Dr Stolzenburg previously lived with his Thai wife at Kata Villa in Rawai, which was close to her house. However, the couple recently separated and his wife returned to her home in Khon Kaen which caused the man some stress. The man remained at the house

alone,” the officer said. “Having investigated further we discovered that Dr Stolzenburg was arrested by immigration police on Feb 8 for overstaying his visa and he was charged for this offence. “We have been told that this caused Dr Stolzenburg even more stress as he believed that he would be blacklisted and would not be able to return to the Kingdom. We believe this is the reason he attempted to take his life,” the officer added. At the time of going to print, police were still waiting to question Dr Stolzenburg about the incident. Eakkapop Thongtub

the meeting explained. Officials will seek legal counsel to investigate the origins of the claim to the land and the land claimant’s rights to rent the area to private business, said the report.

A PA I R OF M ATI NG snakes, initially believed to be cobras, had to be removed from the grounds of a Phuket School last Friday for fears they would harm school children. Kusoldhar m rescue workers were informed by a teacher at Baan Koh Siray School in Koh Siray at 7:30am reporting that two mating cobras had been found behind the school’s kitchen. The teacher was concerned the snakes could harm the school children.

Rescue worker arrived at the school and were taken to a grass area where the two snakes were still in the mating process. One of the rescue workers, Mr Poonsap Saeueng, said that the snakes were indeed in the process of mating, however, he added that the snakes were not actually cobras but nonharmful sunbeam snakes. “We let the snakes finish mating before removing them from the area,” Mr Poonsap said. Eakkapop Thongtub

Opinion 8

OPINION

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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.

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EDITORIAL

The Bangla ballet

he recent police crackdown on Patong’s bars, particularly those in the nightlife hub of Bangla Rd, has seen police enforcing the law which says all nightlife venues must close at midnight, or at 1am if they are inside the designated “entertainment zone”. These crackdowns are a regular annual or biannual performance in Patong, in line with the preceived understanding that the local police and bar owners are performing their usual dance around each other in the negotiations for the amounts to be paid by venue owners to allow their venues to stay open long past the legal closing times. As most long-term residents know, these “crackdowns” are the exception to the rule that sees almost every venue in Bangla Rd open until the wee hours. As seen in practice, many venues in Patong in

recent years have remained open until 4 or 5am or even all-night – the most lucrative time for selling drinks to the hordes of tourists that descend on Bangla Rd in high season. The recent petition by the ever-hopeful Weerawit Krueasombut, President of the Patong Entertainment Business Association, and Patong scion Preechawude “Prab” Keesin to seek permission for Bangla Rd venues to legally open until 5am – if successful – would punch a big hole in whoever’s pockets profit from such entrepreneurial payments. However, extended legal closing times, if enacted properly, could also break the stranglehold on the industry by corrupt officials while raising revenue for the local municipality. If a late opening licence were available – upon payment of a commercially feasible annual fee – then bar operators

would happily pay. As it would simply mean paying an official fee, rather than an under the table one, for the same result. Making late closing times legal would also likely make Patong or even Phuket posts less lucrative or sought-after sinecure for corrupt officers – and those already in place may seek alternative sources of income. The money raised from legitimate extended-hours licence fees could be used to fix some of the very real problems the municipality needs to address, such as: installing actual working CCTV throughout the entertainment zone, paying for drain cleaning to prevent the regular wet-season floods, repair the many deathtrap holes on the footpaths and roads, pay for more tourist police patrols, and the list goes on. Wishful thinking? Yes... but sometimes it’s nice to dream.

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

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Phuket Governor to appeal for Bangla bars and clubs to close at 4am Swedish tourist, 52, in alleged attempted suicide Cobra Gold tests Thai-US relations Phuket’s Gill Dalley, animal welfare pioneer and Soi Dog co-founder, dies ‘Garbage island’ will take 10 days to clear Phuket police confirm alcohol ban for Makha Bucha holiday Province finds land problems with Samui airport Phuket jet-ski death: Victim’s family show strong support as devastated boyfriend charged Thai Army targets car, bike rentals hijacking Phuket beach parking spaces Phuket Opinion: Paying the ultimate price

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

HAVE YOUR SAY Rest in peace, Gill

Re: Phuket’s Gill Dalley, animal welfare pioneer and Soi Dog co-founder, dies from cancer Terrible news and my most sincerest condolences to Mr Dalley. Mrs Dalley was a force of nature and her departure from this realm will be keenly felt by all. If only we could all do a tenth of what she accomplished in her time on Phuket – this island would truly be a paradise. Rest in Peace, Gill. Christy Sweet ...................................................

Follow the lead

Re: Phuket Poll: Does Patong need later closing times for bars and nightclubs? If Phuket wants to stay competitive with other holiday destinations like Bali, it needs to offer a good experience and range of nightlife. Closing early when farang tend to go out very late creates a bad experience. There are bars and nightclubs open all night in Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Bali and other Asian destinations. Beach Mafia

Speaking the lingo

Re: Phuket Opinion: Paying the ultimate price Why is this opinion from the PN and also the last opinion about corruption not published in your Thai language newspaper Khao Phuket? More Thais could know what you are thinking about Thailand/Phuket and your opinion about their laws and also how to handle, or better, how not to handle problems. Maybe they will listen to a farang editor and it would help to make this a better country! Eagle Any law which rest ricts locals from profiting from visitors, will be a law that goes poorly enforced at best. Closing times, jet-ski rentals, baht buses, land rights, the list goes on. There is simply no desire to have real and actual laws, with clear and consistent application on all people. What there is a desire for is a system of fines, applied haphazardly and without consistency, enabling profits for the established players. LivinLOS

So the police charge this poor guy for the accident, instead they should have shown compassion for his loss in this tragic accident. But maybe they thought there is some money to be made? The police should arrest the jet ski operators who made this tragedy possible by running an illegal business on the beach and hiring illegal jet-ski’s out without proper licenses required by law to ride one. How many more people have to die or be injured by these illegal activities before the cowards r unning the government do something about it? Is the jet-ski mafia more powerful than the whole of the Thai army and navy together? Bustermanidogs .....................................................

Same, same not different on Bangla

Re: Phuket Governor to appeal for Bangla bars and clubs to close at 4am Same old story, new boss comes in, “ hmm ? I think I will start by cleaning up the Phuket image, let me close the bars in Bangla to a respectful time!”. Old outcome, the cor-

rupt who have their fingers in a diminishing pie complain and put the squeeze on. Outcome... same old story, bars, clubs etc back to as they were. In a few weeks/months or maybe next year, this will be recycled again with the same outcome, and so it goes on, yawn... LES ...................................................

Between a rock and a hard place

Re: Phuket jet-ski crash: Aussie tourist Keating pleads guilty, reduced sentence, expedited trial likely If Mr Keating had not accepted his guilt he would have been stuck in Phuket, unable to leave Thailand for a year or more waiting for a hearing. Sounds like the police and his lawyer explained this to him. All very sad. Willy Walsh ...................................................

The simple things

Re: Army warns taxi, van drivers at Phuket Airport Drivers should wear plain shirts, and have covered shoes, and have a valid licence, just in case they need reminding. Benvenuto

Have an opinion? Comment on stories at thephuketnews.com thephuketnews

10 THAILAND NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Bad weather halts Gulf ‘garbage island’ cleanup A monk still wearing saffron underpants, and a white T-shirt, is found with a 19-year-old girl inside a love motel room in Phitsanulok late on Valentine’s Day. Photo: Chinnawat Singha

Monk caught with his pants down, drugs at love motel PHITSANULOK A 35-YEAR-OLD MONK was defrocked and then charged after being caught in a love motel room with a young woman and some speed pills on Valentine’s Day. Soldiers and local officials inspecting nightspots and hotels for misbehaviour on Tuesday (Feb 14), saw a saffron robe and a monk’s bag left in a Honda car parked outside a motel room in Tambon Teng Sanam of Muang district around 11:30pm. They knocked on the room door. It was opened by a man with a shaven head and wearing saffron underpants. A 19-year-old girl was also in the room. A search discovered six methamphetamine pills (ya bah) and straws used for taking drugs in the bath-

room, an official said. The man, identified as Wutthichai Promma, 35, was found to be a monk at a temple in Phisanulok's Muang district. The girl admitted she and the monk went to the love motel to celebrate Valentine’s Day and to take drugs. The man was ejected from the monkhood. Urine tests found the pair tested positive for illicit drug use. They were handed over to Muang district police for legal action. Thai media reported that Mr Wutthichai admitted he had sneaked away from the temple to meet the girl and celebrate Valentine’s Day, but said it was the first time. The woman said she had met him via the phone, and arranged to celebrate the day of love with him for the first time at the motel. Bangkok Post

PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN Bangkok Post

trong winds in the Gulf of Thailand have forced officials to temporarily halt their mission to cleanup a “garbage island” drifting near the scenic coastline of Prachuap Khiri Khan. The Marine and Coastal Resources Department, which is leading the effort to get rid of what it calls “floating rubbish”, received a warning from the Meteorology Department about bad weather on Tuesday (Feb 14) and called off the operation for now. In the latest announcement, meteorologists warned of stronger winds and sea waves as high as two or three metres, said Department of Marine and Coastal Resources’ Deputy Director-General Sopon Thongdee. His department was cleaning up the rubbish off Prachuap Khiri Khan’s Bang Saphan and Bang Saphan Noi districts for a second day, and had removed only some from the sea, he said. Last Thursday evening (Feb 9), an aerial survey located the 800 metre by 1 kilometre floating mass about eight kilometres east of Koh Thalu, a popular shallow water dive site in the province. The garbage is an urgent issue as most of

The environmental eyesore in the Gulf of Thailand is about one kilometre long and weighs about 100 tons. Photo: Department of Marine and Coastal Resources it is plastic waste. According to Mr Sopon the huge garbage island might be composed of debris from water draining into the sea after the recent floods, especially from Prachuap Khiri Khan and Chumphon provinces, he said. It is the biggest floating garbage patch ever seen in Thai waters, he said. He estimated its mass at 100 tons. Last Saturday (Feb 11), the garbage was found about 12km away from Prachuap Khiri Khan’s Bang Saphan district.

Meanwhile, the tide and the wind had spread the garbage to cover an area of several square kilometres. Since last Sunday (Feb 12), the winds have strengthened. The winds have also swept the garbage, including plastic and household items, ashore, causing litter on parts of beaches in Bang Saphan and Bang Saphan Noi districts, according to the department. For three days, the rubbish has washed onto the island’s beaches, with his staff having

to remove it every day, said Thanaphum Charoenphak, a resort operator on Koh Thalu. Despite worries over the impact the garbage may have on the environment, Mr Sopol said on Tuesday that his department has not yet found any trash caught in the coral reef off Koh Thalu. Marine animals are at risk if the problem is not solved soon. Earlier, Mr Sopol said, officials who examined a dead sea turtle found a piece of a plastic bag in its stomach.

Underwater weddings for Valentine’s Day TRANG A newlywed couple react after completing their underwater wedding in Trang. Photo: Methee Muangkaew

FOR THIS SOUTHER N province, Valentine’s Day is the time some brides and grooms opt to tie the knots deep in the beautiful Andaman

sea to make their special day memorable. Trang on Tuesday hosted its annual “Underwater Wedding Ceremony” at Kradan Island off Kantang district, with support from the provincial chamber of commerce

and the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Twenty couples attended the event, which began on Monday (Feb 13) and lasted until Wednesday (Feb 15). Of the total, 10 were foreign couples – seven Chinese, and one each from South Korea, Turkey and the United States. Last year’s ceremony attracted the same number of the couples. Each pair – in full wedding dress and diving gear – took part in the water blessing ceremony (rod nam sang), exchanged wedding rings and registered their marriage with a registrar amid colourful fish and other forms of marine life. They then made merit by releasing giant clams. The annual publicity event, being held for the 21st time this year, is aimed at promoting tourism and traditional Thaistyle wedding. Bangkok Post thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

ASIA NEWS 11

Lantern makers go green Creating designs owners will want to keep rather than discard TAIWAN AFP

s Taiwan lights up for the start of its annual lantern festival this weekend, one eco-friendly craftsman is breaking with tradition. Lantern-maker Lin Chowchin is part of a growing movement on the island to make the celebrations greener, creating sustainable lights which can be converted into everything from desk lamps to flower vases. Each year huge electric sculptures go on display in Taiwan’s major cities, children carry tiny disposable lanterns and the skies fill with floating lights for the festival that marks the end of two weeks of Lunar New Year festivities. Environmentalists say used lanterns are not properly recycled and pile up as rubbish, while batteries inside them contain hazardous chemicals that cause pollution. Lin hopes to help combat the problem by creating lanterns which owners will want to keep rather than discard.

One of Lin Chow-chin’s lantern designs at an exhibition in Yilan, eastern Taiwan. Photo: AFP He experimented with making them in his youth and even considered exporting them as a business – but gave up the dream for a steady post office job. After retiring seven years ago, Lin reignited his passion – with a new twist. “I don’t want to see lantern-

making become a fading art so hopefully the creative, environmental and practical aspects can appeal to more young people,” he said. Lin’s colourful lanterns come in a range of shapes and sizes, some using recycled paper, leaves and plant fibres. His main aim is to make

Australia misses Aboriginal targets AUSTRALIA AUSTRALIA IS FAILING to improve Aboriginal lives, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said on Tuesday (Feb 14), as a new report showed the government missing key targets, including cutting child mortality and raising life expectancy. The ninth “Closing the Gap” report found that government and community efforts were only able to meet one of seven targets to boost health, education and employment to

@thephuketnews

the level of the non-indigenous population. “Even with successive Commonwealth and state governments investing more resources, and even with tens of thousands of dedicated Australians seeks to contribute and engage, we are still not making enough progress,” Turnbull told parliament. Aborigines – who make up about three per cent of the total national population – are among the most disadvantaged Australians. Apart from lifting high

school completion rates, all other targets including child mortality, life expectancy, education and employment were not on track, the report said. The mortality rate for indigenous children under four years old was at 165 per 100,000 from 2011-2015, more than double that of the rest of the population. Aborigines also have significantly shorter life expectancy than their fellow citizens, with a gap of 10.6 years for males and 9.5 years for females, according to figures from 2013. AFP

the lanterns reusable. Lin has patented a removable plastic stopper that connects to a light bulb inside the lantern. When the bulb is taken out, users can connect the stopper to a water bottle and recycle the lantern as a vase. Some of the lantern frames

are made from self-assembled cardboard cut-outs which Lin says are popular with students as they can be used as pen holders, and come with spare parts that can be modelled into sculptures and business card holders. It is still a small business and Lin makes all the lanterns himself from home, selling around 800 a year by word of mouth. But interest in his art has seen him conduct workshops across Taiwan and stage exhibitions in Hong Kong and mainland China. “It’s rewarding to see my students embrace my ideas and come up with their own creations,” says Lin. Campaigners say they do not want the lantern festival to disappear, just to improve. Liu Jyh-jian, Vice Director of the Taiwan Environmental Protection Union, says the focus should be on the “content, not the size” of the celebrations. Taiwan’s tourism bureau, which sponsors the island’s biggest lantern celebrations, featuring huge electric lights

in the shape of zodiac animals, says the creations are now being “adopted” after the festival, mostly by schools and local government departments. Environmental authorities are also urging the public to recycle batteries used in small hand-held lanterns – last year they generated an estimated 3.79 tonnes of waste. Mountainous Pingshi town in northern Taiwan is at the vanguard of the new green push. Special hiking groups head out into the hills to retrieve thousands of floating lanterns which are released into the sky then fall to earth. Authorities there are also offering cash or small gifts as rewards for recycling. Hu Min-shu, a veteran sky lantern maker who uses recycled materials and is head of an association promoting the craft in Pingshi, says up to 90% of used lanterns are now recycled there. “Of course, we hope to achieve a 100% recycling rate,” he says. “The whole town is mobilised.”

12 WORLD NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

DR Congo’s street food crisis

Cheap meals often come with a cost, diseases including cholera DR CONGO AFP

n crisis-hit Democratic Republic of Congo, people in the capital increasingly turn to street hawkers to feed themselves and their families cheaply, but the makeshift option is often not a hygienic one. From civil servants and students, to construction workers and parents with their children, hungry Kinshasa residents depend on so-called malewas, or street food sellers, whose numbers have grown as the economy has worsened. “Here, I eat my fill for under 2,000 Congolese francs (B54),” said Jose Bangamba, a 29-year-old taxi driver. Leaning over a plate of chicken in gravy, which cost him just 1,500 francs (B40), Bangamba also tucked into a side dish of fufu, a traditional recipe made from cassava flour that cost 400 francs (B11). “In a normal restaurant, this meal would have cost me at least 10 times more. How can I possibly afford that?” he said.

Women prepare food at a street restaurant in Kinshasa. Photo: AFP DR Congo has been mired in political and economic unrest for years. A fall in commodity prices that hit the country’s mining industry, leading to mass job losses, sparked a crisis in mid-2015. The slump in production left the government without a much-needed source of revenue. The situation has been further compounded by high inflation after a fall in the Congolese currency.

Since December, the political crisis has also worsened, with President Joseph Kabila refusing to step down despite his mandate coming to an end. Though the vast central African nation is rich in mineral wealth and water, it has long been one of the continent’s poorest nations and rising unrest has only deepened the economic malaise. For the past year and a half, malewas have become

massively popular in Kinshasa, home to 10 million people. And it isn’t just those looking for a cheap meal who are turning to malewas; it is also housewives like Marie Aloka Hioma, who have started selling hot food in front of their Kinshasa homes. Better known as Mama Marie, the 48-year-old mother of eight said she set up her malewa six years ago “to pay my children’s school fees”.

Customers for her malewa stand in line from 5am every day, waiting to be served from pots of fish, chicken, meat and pondu, a local dish made from cassava leaves and vegetables. Mama Marie, who serves all the customers herself, does not know how many people come in a day. “A hundred or so, I guess,” she says, standing under a parasol by her makeshift food stand, stuffing the cash she makes into a handbag slung over her shoulder. For the past seven years, Mama Annie has been running a similar business just a couple of streets away. Most of her profit, she says, goes “to my children, to buy them shoes” and clothes. Papi Bula Mbemba, a 49-year-old regular who works for a pest control company, comes to Mama Annie’s every day. “You get the best prices here. Malewas really do offer the people of Kinshasa the solution they need,” he said. But these cheap meals often come at the cost of hygiene.

Bangamba, the taxi driver, says some malewa owners use unwashed plates and glasses. Customers also run the risk of diseases such as typhoid, diarrhoea and even cholera as malewas are often located near rubbish dumps and polluted water tanks. “Worsening living conditions force the population to eat what they can afford,” said Benjamin Kewngani Mavard, director of DR Congo’s public hygiene service. Warning of a “growing public health problem”, Kewngani conceded it would be “impossible” to shut down all the malewas. “We have to improve them,” he said, adding that authorities would seek to raise street food vendors’ hygiene awareness. Mama Marie said that, while others may not be up to standard, her food was clean. “I eat what I cook, and so do my husband and children,” she said, as she washed her plates and cutlery. “I don’t want people to fall ill. I want them to come back the next day.”

Cheating Frenchman sues Uber for unmasking mistress FRANCE AN ADULTEROUS BUSInessman in southern France is seeking damages of up to 45 million euros (B1.68 billion) from Uber over his wife’s discovery of his extra-marital rides, his lawyer and a report said this week. The man, from the glitzy Riviera area on the southern coastline, claims he once connected to the ride-hailing application via his wife’s phone to request a driver. Despite using the log-off function, the application continued to send her updates afterwards, revealing his travel history and arousing suspicions about his lover, Le Figaro newspaper said. The couple have since divorced. “My client was the victim of a bug in an application,” his lawyer DavidAndré Darmon said after the case was lodged at a court in Grasse in south-

The bug in the Uber software was not a one-off case and had been experienced by other users. east France. “There’s a function to disconnect but the session was not disconnected and the bug has caused him problems in his private life,” Darmon added. He declined to comment on claims in Le Figaro that he had sought damages of 45 million euros, saying only that his client “wished to remain discreet and retain

his anonymity”. The newspaper said the bug in the Uber software was not a one-off case and had been experienced by other users. Uber said in a statement that it would not comment on the case underway but that the best possible protection of clients’ personal details was a priority. AFP thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

BUSINESS NEWS 13

Brexit: The Way Forward ECONOMICS

Chris Husted execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

hose seeking a comprehensive argument of why to support Brexit and looking to hear first hand an expert view on the current situation and the potential fallout in the long run got one on Monday night (Feb 13) from former UK MP Michael Weatherley. Mr Weatherley was guest speaker at the British Chamber of Commerce of Thailand (BCCT) Phuket Business Dinner event at the Amari Patong hotel, where his mandate for the evening was to deliver his appraisal of “Brexit – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats”. Noting that the “Brexit” debate was divisive – even amongst families – Mr Weatherley opened his appraisal focusing on two key aspects: ideological and economic, and quickly dismantled rationales for “remain in the EU” along both lines of thinking. Making short work of the ideological argument, Mr Weatherley decried the EU as “bureaucratic, unelected and wasteful”. One key example cited was the legally binding requirement for members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to convene in Strasbourg once every four weeks simply because it was written into the original treaty. “I am not sure everyone here realises this happens, but every one of the 751 MEPs, every support staff, every translator – the lot – all decamp 440 kilometres costing the tax payer at least 144 million euros (B5.35 billion) per year – some even estimate it is over 400mn euros p.a. The EU has the figure at officially 3.5 billion euros (B130bn) so far in the EU history and I can assure you it is much higher

Michael Weatherley. when taking into account the building upkeep, catering transfer and so on,” he said. Worse, MEPs themselves have voted against the requirement, but yet it stays. “I mentioned this to the PM (Prime Minister David Cameron, at the time) and his reply was, ‘Yes, Mike, we all know that is wrong, but there is nothing we can do about it’. “And my reply was, ‘Right there PM, you know something is wrong, 99% of Europe doesn’t want to do it, but we can’t change it? The EU project is doomed to failure if we can’t even be adaptable to change that one small, obvious thing’,” Mr Weatherley said. The EU also failed as a functioning democratic institution, he added. “In my capacity as Intellectual Property adviser to the PM, I made frequent trips to Brussels. Not to see the democratically elected MEPs to lobby for a particular law – there is almost no point in doing that. The real power lies with the Commissioners and the Directors of the various Directorates,” he explained. “These officials are not elected by the people, but are

appointed by the individual Governments getting together and deciding who they would like. And quite often these Commissioners are failed politicians who are given favours by their party – Kinnock and Mandelson spring readily to mind. But all parties do it. They control 23,000 civil servants split into various Directorates. Run by a senior civil servant that basically has a job for life. “And when meeting these Commissioners, or Directors, for anyone who has watched ‘Yes Minister’ it is 100 times worse. If they don’t agree, you can’t lobby to get them deselected, outvoted or anything. It is the most frustrating political accountability experience, and I haven’t even started on the Council set up and other departments,” he said. On the economic front, Mr Weatherley admitted, “If it makes financial sense, then all those other things could be overlooked. Maybe.” Yet that, too, faltered, he said. “The EU share of worldwide GDP in 1973 was 37%. In 2025 it is forecast to be down to 22%. And when I look at how groupings such

Thailand extends free visa scheme TOURISM THE THAI CABINET LAST week approved an extension of its free visa concession for tourists from 21 countries for another six months. Tourists who need a visa to visit Thailand must still apply through normal channels, but the customary B1,000 fee to process the visa will remain waived. The visa will be valid for a 30-day stay. The concession applies @thephuketnews

from March 1 to August 31 this year. The current free visa concession is due to expire February 28. Eligible nationalities: Andorra, Bulgaria, Bhutan, China, Cyprus, Ethiopia, India, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Romania, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Papua New Guinea and Republic of Fiji Islands. India, China and Saudi Arabia are three markets that

should benefit the most from the free visa privilege, said industry experts. The visa-on-arrival fee that was increased on September 27 last year to B2,000 has also been reduced to B1,000 for citizens of the 21 countries. The visa-on-arrival is valid for 15 days. The scheme aims to encourage more travellers to visit the kingdom particularly from major markets like China, India, Saudi Arabia and Taiwan. TTR Weekly

as Asean is coming together it fills me with horror as to how the EU collectively will slip even further. “I was the Chair of the All Party Asean Group and no matter how hard I tried to impress on everyone the economic long term growth from this region, people were incredibly blinkered,” he said. In his opinion, the EU is too introspective, and consequently missing out on trade deals with non-member countries simply because it takes not just all member states to agree, but even constituencies within EU nations. To this he cited the example of Canada, after 12 years of negotiations, bowing out of a major trade deal because of one province in Belgium that disagreed. Further, he added, “In fact, the officers of our Parliamentary Asean Group had regular meetings with the 10 Asean Ambassadors in London who expressed their enduring frustration at their long-standing attempts to do trade deals with the UK Government only to be rebuffed with replies that we are a member state of the EU and the deal needs to be

done with them. A deal that is thus far a long way from completion. It’s been 10 years in the making so far. Although Singapore did sign an agreement in 2014,” he said. Other issues included the EU’s lack of accountability for its own finances, “The EU accounts have not been accurate since 1995 – the rules were changed to not allow a negative auditors opinion but they did at last however give a clean opinion in 2007 and all years since – but also noted material errors in every single year. It’s a mess,” Mr Weatherley pointed out. Among the threats, Mr Weatherley recognised that UK’s financial district “might be a problem” in the initial stages as the UK is heavily dependent on financial services as export revenue. “HSBC has moved to France, but I am very familiar with French labour law, and if they want to do that then that’s up to them. I do not see others following,” he said. “Also, the rule of English law is well respected around the world, and this will remain a key attraction for financial services to stay,” he added.

Responding to the question, “So, what exactly has changed so far?” Mr Weatherley replied candidly, “Right now, nothing. Nothing will change until the EU agrees the terms of Britain’s exit.” The explanation lent itself to questions about the current low currency value, this week trading at B43 to the pound. “In my opinion the pound was overvalued anyway and this was bound to happen, but keep in mind that this is good for exports. We have come out of a recession on an export-led recovery, and could well do so again. “However, I do not see any major changes soon, not until the UK starts signing trade deals, and that includes with the EU,” he said. Mr Weatherley noted that it was “unthinkable” to have no trade between the UK and the EU even after Brexit, and its deadline two years from now. “The EU exports to the UK 50 billion euros net a year, which they would not want to lose, and the Lisbon Treaty actually specifies that any country leaving must be given a trade deal. So all this talk that the UK will be cut out of a trade deal with the EU actually goes against what was included in the treaty in the first place,” he said. “I think the whole EU project needs to be broken up and we need to start from scratch. Yes, I believe in close cooperation with our European neighbours. And I think there is lots we can do that will be in our collective interest. But it cannot be done under the current set up,” he concluded. The BCCT welcomes suggestions for topics, and expert speakers, for the Business Dinner Series. Email Greg@ BCCThai.com The Phuket News is a proud sponsor of the BCCT Phuket Business Dinner series.

14 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Keeping your nest eggs intact Personal portfolio bonds offer access to the best, with less risk INVESTMENT Phuket Expat Finance editor@classactmedia.co.th

he strengthening US dollar against most currencies – especially in Asia – has made many expats question the strategy of investing in the country where they live. It is not only the currency risk which concerns people, but also the fact that some countries have begun taking protectionist measures to restrict the outflow of capital from their economies. Such exchange controls became common after the Asia Crisis in 1997, but had been relaxed or removed entirely for the better part of the past decade. This liberalisation appears to be ending, with individuals – and even businesses – now finding it increasingly difficult to move money abroad. For expatriates, this is potentially a very troubling development, and anyone who has not already explored alternative jurisdictions and investment structures for their hard-earned money

should begin thinking seriously about it. Personal portfolio bonds (PPBs) are flexible means of investing over the medium to long term. They are designed to allow your capital to grow over time, while offering the option to add to your investment when you choose. In addition, you can take ad hoc withdrawals at any time, if necessary, or regular withdrawals (as “income”) if the structure holds your pension or retirement fund. A PPB is not itself an investment, rather it is an “open architecture” platform that allows access to a broad range of investments from the most well-respected investment institutions in the world. You can invest in virtually any market-traded security around the world, including direct equities (stocks), mutual funds, bonds, SICAVS, gilts, precious metals and specialty funds. Typically limited to institutional or accredited investors, some of the world’s best investment managers are accessible to retail clients only through a platform such as a

Take the befuddlement out of choosing the right diversity of investment options with personal portfolio bonds (PPBs). Photo: AFP PPB. In addition, the minimum investment levels and institutional discounts you receive are normally reserved solely for major banks or other large financial institutions. Because you can access truly global investments, you may also choose to hold them in a variety of currencies. Given the exchange controls mentioned above – and events such as Brexit, which is weakening the pound – the option to hold multiple currencies may prove to be very appealing over the long term.

A PPB can also be used to protect your assets, and to reduce the tax burden you may otherwise face when the time comes to begin drawing on your capital. And because PPBs are located in offshore jurisdictions, your portfolio can be added to, and is accessible in, virtually any country you call home. If you choose not to return home, tax on investment withdrawals or pensions normally due to your home country may be mitigated by using a PPB. And if you do once again become

a tax resident of your home country, the structure may even continue to offer you tax benefits upon your return (depending on the country). One major reason portfolio bonds are so popular is their use as a generation and estate planning vehicle. If you hold an array of investments, including property, around the world, major problems can arise upon your death. Not only would your spouse have to cope with their grief, but they would also have to contend with the daunting task of hiring a lawyer in every single jurisdiction in which the assets are held, in order to settle the estate and assist with probate procedures. Provided beneficiaries have been nominated, it is possible through a PPB to mitigate not only probate, but depending on your nationality and country of residence, death duties or inheritance taxes, as well. The administrative simplicity of a PPB is also very appealing. Current international regulations on Anti-Money Laundering can make brokerage accounts, and even bank

accounts, extremely cumbersome to deal with. Moving money or making trades can mean filling out AML and FATCA paperwork, and may even result in a mandatory visit to your financial institution. While the same regulations apply to a PPB to material changes to your account (paying in money, change of address, cash withdrawals), buying and selling of investments within your account requires no extra AML procedures – regardless of the quantity of shares/funds traded – because all transactions are implemented by the PPB provider on your behalf. The benefits and the investment possibilities within a personal portfolio bond are simply too numerous to mention here, and it could be said that it is probably the most sophisticated and cost-effective investment structure available anywhere in the world today, and worth considering for any expatriate. For more details about PPBs, email chatwithus@phuket expatfinance

Move to unite ATMs gains momentum BANKING T H E T H A I BA N K ERS’ Association (TBA) expects to finalise a study by midyear on white-label ATMs, a cash withdrawal pool network that will be run by a company instead of individual banks. Given that the network will be run by a particular firm, the cost of expanding the number of ATMs, maintenance, replacement and management will be shared among various banks, cutting costs for the industry. The white-label ATM concept will also help reduce the number of overlapping ATMs in each area and better expand cash machines into remote areas, providing those who live upcountry with better access to financial services such as bill payment, cash withdrawal and mutual fund investment. The banking industry spends about B3.6 billion a year on ATM replacement and maintenance, based on the estimate that 7,000-8,000 ATMs a year need replacing at a cost of B400,000-500,000 each, said Yos Kimsawate, head of the Payment System Office under the TBA. There are 60,000-70,000

The banking industry spends about B3.6 billion a year on ATM replacement and maintenance. ATMs nationwide. Each machine typically must be replaced every eight years. The white-label ATM concept was initiated by the Finance Ministry and is under review by the TBA. The pool service could also be extended to cash trucks. Mr Yos said the TBA needs to study cost-sharing models to ensure fairness in the industry. If the white-label concept is implemented, it could take a toll on large banks’ fee-based income, as they have spent extensively on installing the ATM infrastructure base, he said, adding that small banks with more limited ATM networks will immediately reap the benefits of the shared network. “Small banks should be charged higher fees for ATM services than larger banks,” Mr Yos said. “But consumers wouldn’t take a hit from

white-label ATMs, as the ATM charges would remain unchanged.” Separately, Piti Tantakasem, chief wholesale banking officer of TMB Bank and a board member of National ITMX Co, a local switching system provider, said ITMX will provide the service to all debit card payment providers, including Thai Payment Network, Visa International and MasterCard. In the long term, ITMX is likely to upgrade to a national payment infrastructure service provider, with coverage spanning debit and credit cards and digital banking services at ATMs to keep pace with the evolving technology. Shareholders of ITMX include Bangkok Bank, Krungthai Bank, Siam Commercial Bank, Kasikornbank, Bank of Ayudhya and TMB Bank. Bangkok Post thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Wildlife under threat on the mighty Mekong

India’s ‘Pink City’ Jaipur is steeped in history

EVERYDAY GETAWAYS

Discover our region’s best day trips and adventure-filled tours > P18 @thephuketnews

This temple, with its stunning mountain backdrop, is just a few hours drive from Phuket in Krabi province. Photo: Mark Knowles

16 ENVIRONMENT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Battle rages for the Mekong Plans to blast shipping obstacles in the river spell tragedy for biodiversity Bangkok Post

ecking free of its shell, a River Lapwing chick stretches its legs. It has no idea it’s hiding in plain sight. The soft hue of its feathers, a mosaic of shades mirroring the Mekong River’s gravel beneath its feet, provides perfect camouflage as it readies to dutifully follow its parents mere moments after taking its first breath. The chick is unaware that its home, where the most prized of the threatened Mekong bird species lives, is slated to disappear, and with it, hope for its breed. Worse still, scientists warn, is that ecological losses along the Mekong River are a part of the global catastrophe that Thailand and its neighbours are contributing to at humanity’s peril. To Phil Round, Thailand’s leading bird expert, plans to dynamite obstacles to create a river channel deep enough to facilitate the passage of large Chinese cargo ships is unthinkable in this era of rampant biodiversity decline. “One way or another we’re wiping out strains of a genetic code, and that section of the Mekong [River] is a treasure trove of ecological complexity that we’re only beginning to understand,” he says. Starting just beyond the point where the Mekong enters Thailand from Myanmar, and extends 243 kilometres downstream, these rapids have gained international notoriety over the past 15 years due to a single fish species: the Mekong Giant Catfish. Growing to three metres in length and weighing up to 250kg, they are the largest freshwater fish in the world, though rarely found any more due to changes in the river flow mainly brought on by the construction of the Chinese dams upstream. But Ayuwat Jearwattanakanok, of the Bird Conservation Society of Thailand, says attention to such “poster animals” does not scratch the surface of what is really at stake. “The Mekong’s alteration not only affects fish and the livelihoods of local

A cargo ship on the Mekong. Photo: S Khuenkaew

A rare River Lapwing. Photo: David Raju

The River Turn is becoming scarce due to the destruction of sandbanks in which it nests. Photo: Mithan BM people, but directly affects many species of birds all along its course,” says Mr Ayuwat. “Some are found nowhere else in Thailand, particularly the Mekong Wagtail which was not described by science until 2001,” he adds. He surmises that while some of these species may stray in search of new habitats after the rapids have gone, their long-term survival will be precarious. “The rapids were part of their evolution, their hard wiring. Eliminating them will have severe consequences,” the expert said. Mr Ayuwat points out that the “ecological niche” accessed by different species utilising different elements of the river channel further illustrates the easily over-looked complexity of how birds come to rely on these rapids in their intact state. For example, the Mekong Wagtail prefers rapid-forming rocks. The White-tailed Rubythroat dwells in particular grasses found on sandbars, while the River Terns make nests within the vertical banks carved by the river. Moreover, conservation biologist Nonn Panichwong, founder of Siamensis.org, Thailand’s largest online natural history museum, says that underlying the unique physical aspects of this

A well-camouflaged River Lapwing chick.

stretch of the Mekong is a complex food web that is found nowhere else. “The insects, the worms, the microorganisms, many of which are hidden from view below the surface provide the nourishment these birds have come to rely on,” he says. And food for the fish as well, Mr Nonn adds. Indeed, the very presence of something as rare and large as the Giant Catfish could only have evolved from a system comprised of an assemblage of many unique organisms. For example, one of the world’s smallest vertebrates, the three-spotted Dwarf Rasbora, averaging 1.3cm, is also found within this reach of the Mekong. “And we’re discovering new species all the time,” says Somsak Panha, director of Chulalongkorn University’s Centre of Excellence on Biodiversity. “We’ve found this three-metre-long earthworm living within the Mekong’s banks. Why they evolved to such a length is still unknown, but sadly they’re fast disappearing due to damaltered river flows.” To Mr Somsak, Thailand’s wealth in fauna and flora represents an untapped competitive advantage in food production and health care. “Forget technology and innovation and let’s focus on biodiversity research and development. Thailand is small in land cover, but our biodiversity is among the richest in the world,” he says. Mr Nonn too laments that while Thais are advancing their understanding of this natural wealth, they are ignoring the big picture surrounding what happens when it is gone. “What Thailand is demonstrating with its cavalier approach toward the loss of these rapids is a smack in the face for the science that is telling us that we can no longer afford to do this –

Wire tailed swallows are in decline. Photo: C Eason to contribute further to the loss of species that on the whole have been critical to the planet’s biological functioning and our own well-being,” Mr Nonn said. Studies like the one published last year by University College London found that for 58% of the world’s land surface, which is home to 71% of the global population, the level of biodiversity loss is substantial enough to question the ability of the ecosystems to support human societies. “Like the agreed upon CO2 emission cuts, countries are supposed to be cutting the rate of extinction, but I doubt anyone involved in making decisions about these rapids even thinks about Thailand’s commitment to the United Nation’s Convention on Biodiversity,” Mr Nonn said. Last week, when Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith was presented with images of birds whose habitats would be lost by the rapids blasting, he admitted ignorance of the deeper importance of preserving the area’s biological integrity. “Now that we know, we’re not going to do anything without a thorough study of the project’s environmental impacts,” Mr Arkhom promised. “But at the same time we have to weigh it against the economic benefits from increasing navigation.” But therein lies the problem, Mr Nonn said. Economic valuations can’t account for the true value of the species we know about, much less those yet to be discovered. “Since the human-inflected damage got into full gear with the industrial revolution, we’re the first generation to truly feel the impact. “It’s fair to say that it is now our job to demand such critical habitats be evaluated differently, and to let the government know this is what it must do.

thephuketnews

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TECHNOLOGY 17

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Essential apps for ocean-lovers APPLICATION ABCS Amy Bensema bensema.amy@gmail.com

t really is no secret that our oceans are facing a hefty pollution problem. It is estimated that 6.3 billion kilograms of trash, most of it plastic, is dumped into the world’s oceans every year. However, thanks to technology, it is now possible to join a global movement to keep beaches, waterways and the ocean trash-free all with the help of an app you can download on your smartphone.

Clean Swell | For Beachgoers

Available on iOS & Android Clean Swell is a conservationthemed application developed by the Ocean Conservancy. It is an oceanfriendly app that allows users to head out to their favourite beach and use the app to record each item of trash. Afterwards, it is possible to share those envi-

@thephuketnews

ronmentally friendly efforts with your friends and family. Use Clean Swell to “start collecting” trash wherever you are in the world. The data collected by the app will automatically upload to Ocean Conservancy’s global ocean trash database. The cumulative data provide a global snapshot of ocean trash, in turn providing researchers and policymakers with the information and insight needed to brainstorm solutions. Clean Swell allows users to join thousands of international Coastal Cleanup volunteers working together for a cleaner ocean by picking up millions of kilos of trash on beaches worldwide. Features within Clean Swell include recording every item of trash collected, sharing cleanup results, track ing distances cleaned, total weight of trash collected and much more. Clean Swell is a creative app that allows beachgoers to make a difference any time they walk on the beach. The app is available on iOS & Android. Once you’ve used Clean Swell to clean up the beach, catch the perfect waves with these following apps, but don’t take your phone into the water!

Surfr App | For Travelling Surfers

Available on iOS The essential app for surfers on the go, Surfr App allows surfers to tap into a wealth of resources before planning the next big surfing adventure. Travel-

ling surfers can you use the app to connect with surf communities further afield. By tapping on the Discover icon within Surfr App, surfers are able to view surf spots, assess current surf conditions, review feedback of said locations and get directions to surfer-friendly hospitality options nearby. Note to those looking to catch the waves – all of the published surf spots within the app are known locations. None of the spots are a secret, however, the app does feature 8,000+ popular surf destinations worldwide.

goFlow | Live the Active Life

Available on iOS & Android An app for weather-driven sports such as surfing, kiteboarding, diving, cycling, snowboarding and skiing, goFlow gets its data from users uploading the conditions. The brainchild of a

former pro-surfer turned tech entrepreneur, goFlow connects sports enthusiasts with local experts while features within the app allow users to post and share videos and photos. The goFlow app lets users explore real time weather conditions, hotspots that are close by, share in fun experiences and connect with people over favourite outdoor activities. Go Outside. Go Active. Go Flow.

iSurfer | Surfing Coach

Available on iOS & Android iSurfer is more than just a surf coaching app, it is an essential tool for all surfers to use on their mobile devices. With iSurfer, surfers are able to take their skills to the next level and keep track of their progress with the unique surf log. Within the app, iSurfer features loads of information and videos for all levels of surfers, from the very beginner to the extremely advanced. Improving your surf skills is so easy with this app. iSurfer is divided into different sections including an obvious surfing section, equipment and safety sections, as well as a surf log function that allows surfers to keep a diary of progressions, competitions, boards and conditions. In addition, there is a surfing rules section that also teaches surfing terminology.

18 EXPLORE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Day tripping in paradise Jamie Monk reveals his top ten trips and tours in and around Phuket JAMIE’S PHUKET Jamie Monk editor@classactmedia.co.th

ost of the trips we do as a family from Phuket are done “our own way” without joining any organised or paid tour. For other trips we get help from our friends from tour company Easy Day Thailand. There is a lot to do here, lots of trips and that does not include local sightseeing to places like the Big Buddha, Phromthep Cape, Phuket Old Town. When I stop to think about it, there is way too much to do here! So here are my top 10 day trips (or longer if you have more time) in Phuket and the surrounding region: 1. Exploring Phang Nga Bay This would normally be the first trip I would suggest to anyone. We have done Phang Nga Bay trips many times. Great scenery, several iconic views. You can do trips like we have done by longtail boat in private groups visiting places like Panyee village and James Bond Island, or there is a very popular tour including sea canoeing around several islands and caves in the bay.

2. River Tubing and Jungle Safari at Kapong Kapong is in Phang Nga province to the north of Phuket. We have been in this area for a white-water rafting tour, but the trip that is really recommended includes river tubing, swimming at a waterfall and elephant bathing and trekking... and yes, I know elephant trekking is not so trendy now, with concerns about cruelty, but I am assured this place really looks after the elephants and they only take small groups.

One of the many floating hotels on Ratchaprapha Lake inside Khao Sok National Park. Photo: Mark Knowles

3. Private Phi Phi Day Trip I have not been to Phi Phi for quite a long time. It does tend to be rather crowded and most tours are on big boats with maybe 40 or 50 people. So they can be very cheap and that sounds attractive, and yes the scenery is very pretty despite the crowds – but a private tour is the way to go! You can arrange a private tour for a day from Phuket, so you get your own boat with a private guide in Phi Phi after taking a fast ferry from Phuket. And yes, this is more expensive than some of the real budget tours, but really worth the extra.

Kayaking in the caves of Phang Nga Bay.

4. Khao Sok National Park Day trips are possible to Khao Sok, although it’s about three hour’s drive from Phuket and it’s certainly best to

Kayaking at Koh Hong. stay a night. Tours include rafting or tubing on the river and/or a trip on the huge Ratchaprapha Lake. We love this area, great scenery, fresh jungle air, a nice change from Phuket! 5. Krabi Kayaking and Adventure Day Trip Krabi is on the east side of Phang Nga Bay, and has some attractions that are a bit too far for a day trip such as the Emerald Pool and the Tiger Temple, plus many small offshore islands. This particular tour, offered by our friends at Easy Day Thailand as a private day trip, includes a stop at an animal sanctuary, a stop at the very impressive Bang Riang Temple. Then kayaking in the mangroves and a stop at a waterfall. Lots of nature and scenery. 6. Koh Yao Yai and More Islands Day trips are possible, taking a boat from Bang Rong Pier on the northeast coast of Phuket, but an overnight trip is better. Koh Yao Yai is a quiet island and the views from the east coast are great, looking across the bay towards the Krabi coastline. Tours will also include stops at Hong Island and others. Some more great scenery here. 7. Similan Islands Overnight Snorkeling The Similan Islands I know very well! I spent many months on dive boats there and I am still a manager at Sunrise Divers, so please do contact me for scuba diving trips. If you are interested in snorkelling, you can book a couple of different trips. Day trips are possible, but are a bit rushed. An overnight trip is much more relaxed. There is an option to sleep in tents, but this is not really comfortable (yes, it’s cheaper) or you can stay in air-con cabins on a boat called the Pansa Queen. The Similan Islands really are beautiful! 8. Surin Islands Overnight Camping The Surin Islands are quite a long way from Phuket, it’s an easier trip if you are staying in Khao Lak. Overnight or two-night stays are possible, camping in the Surin Islands National Park. A day trip is possible too. It’s less

The spectacular and isolated Similan Islands. crowded than the Similan Islands and there is lots of great snorkelling plus you can visit the Moken “sea gypsy” village. 9. Racha Yai Island Early Bird Racha Yai Island, also called Raya Island, is a very popular day trip destination from Phuket. There are lots of boats and lots of snorkellers, plus dive boats along the reef and in the bays. To beat the crowds on a day trip, the early bird tour is a must. Hotel pick up 6-6:30am means you get to the island a few hours before anyone else! You can also look into overnight options. If you stay on the island and wake up early, you also beat the crowds! 10. Private Phuket Island Sightseeing Tours As I mentioned at the top of the page, Phuket itself has many attractions and it’s a big island! Easy Day do have a few “set tours” but you can also contact them for a private tour to see whatever you want. Maybe start with sunrise at the Big Buddha and then visit Chalong Temple, maybe the Botanic Garden, then lunch in Phuket Town, then up Rang Hill, or a stop at the aquarium and catch an evening show at Siam Niramit, the options are more or less unlimited. Of course, you can’t see it all, which is why I do find that many people come back to Phuket. If you have a couple of easy beach days and a few tours that’s a week gone and then you start to realise that there is a lot more here! Jamie Monk blogs about all things Phuket. For more great local information visit his website: jamiesphuket.com thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

TRAVEL 19

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Life in the Pink City

India’s fairytale city of Jaipur charms with its regal history and achitecture Pichaya Svasti

ocated in the hills on the Jaipur-New Delhi Road, the majestic Amber Fort is a beautiful mix of Hindu and Rajput architectural styles. The construction of this impregnable fort overlooking the city of Jaipur was begun by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Sawai Jai Singh in the 18th century. The fort and palace buildings are built using locally quarried red sandstone and white marble. In 1876 the entire city was painted pink – the colour locally associated with hospitality – to welcome the Prince of Wales. Since then, all government buildings and historical places are painted pink in order to keep the charm of the historic era and due to this Jaipur is colloquially known as the “Pink City”. Must-sees include The Hall of Private Audience, the Hall of Public Audience, the summer residence, the Palace of Raja Man Singh, Char-bagh or Four Gardens (a garden in the classic Mughal pattern), the Lion Gate, the Ganesh Gate, the Moon Gate and the Turkish Baths. The Hall of Private Audience (Diwan-i-Khas) was built during the reign of Mirza Raja Jai Singh for the raja to meet his special guests like envoys from other rulers. To get to the fort from the foot of the hills, visitors can choose between an elephant ride which costs Rs1,100 (B600) for two or a jeep ride, which costs Rs500 (B250) for five persons. Entry fee to the fort is Rs500 (B250) per person. Tourists line up to ride beautifully-adorned elephants to the top where the palace stands tall and graceful. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan, one of India’s 29 states. Prior to Jaipur, Amer, about 10km away, was the district capital, but was relocated due to an increase in population and a scarcity of water in Amer. Jaipur is believed to be India’s the first planned city, designed by noted architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya using traditional principles. My guide Maharaj Devraj Singh of Jaipur, or less formally, Devraj Rangsit is a grandson of the last ruler of Jaipur and – waxes nostalgically about the city’s proud regal past.

The Jantar Mantar observatory. Photo: M Savage

A Rajastani vegetarian ‘thali’. Photo: Meghana78 @thephuketnews

“Before 1947, Jaipur was like a country in its own right, with its own ruler and state machinery. The Amber Fort complex is also one of the first large Indian castles that most people see when they visit North India’s ‘Golden Triangle’, and it is one of my favourite sites in Jaipur, being my ancestral castle. “Jaipur is a gem for those interested in traditional Indian architecture. After visiting Amer, visitors can see how the Maharaja took things to the next step by constructing Jaipur from scratch in the 1740s. Jaipur is not just an Indian medieval castle town, but it is a completely planned city built on a vision of prosperity and trade and a renewed Hindu renaissance.” Jaipur was, and still is, the centre of the gem trade in northern India (with the exception of diamonds). Therefore, shopping for traditional jewellery and gold and silver crafts is recommended, added Devraj Singh. Jaipur celebrates countless national and local festivals all-year-round. Around Jan 14 each year, the people of Jaipur enjoy the Kite Festival, which is unique to Rajasthan. Colourful kites of all shapes and sizes take to the sky all across the city. At night, lanterns are lit and released into the sky. Local delicacies include naan and chapati flatbreads and and array of rich vegetarian curries, often served as part of a thali (plate) meal, which features numerous small bowls of curry and chutney accompanied by rice and flatbreads. According to official statistics, about 8 million tourists visited India in 2015. Generally, about 80% of these tourists visit Jaipur as part of the well-trodden “Golden Triangle” tourist route which links the capital New Dheli, Jaipur and Agra “Like Thailand, tourism and hospitality plays a vital role in Jaipur’s economy, the city being popular with both local tourists, as well as international travellers. You haven’t really visited Rajasthan or northwestern India, if you haven’t visited Jaipur,” concluded Devraj Singh. Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727 to pursue his keen interest in astronomy. It boasts 14 geometric devices, designed to measure time, track celestial bodies and observe the orbits of the planets around the Sun. A highlight is Vrihat Samrat Yantra, a sundial that can tell the time to an accuracy of two seconds. It is 30m in height and is the largest of all the king’s instruments. The famous Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds, was built from the local pink sandstone in 1799 by the poet-king Sawai Pratap Singh for his queen, princesses and royal court ladies to observe daily life without being seen by outsiders. This five-storey structure is a combination of Hindu and Islamic architecture. Its exterior with small latticed windows looks like the crown of the Hindu god Krishna. It is surrounded by rows of ancient shophouses selling fabrics, jewellery, souvenirs and other goods. Govind Devji Temple, or the Krish-

The Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds, was built from the local pink sandstone in 1799. Photo: Firoze Edassery na temple, is near City Palace. It is the abode of the statue of Govind Devji or Krishna, an avatar of the god Vishnu, brought by Sawai Jai Singh from Vrindavan, a town in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh where Krishna spent his childhood, according to Hindu legend. The deity is worshipped by the royal family and the Hindus in Jaipur and nearby areas. Jai Mahal, or the Lake Palace, is one of the most amazing attractions in Jaipur and should not be missed. With

the upper floors rising from the water, the palace appears to float in the centre of Man Sagar Lake like something out of a fairytale book. Bangkok Post Thai Smile Airline operates three flights a week from Bangkok to Jaipur on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and three flights a week leave Jaipur to Bangkok on Wednesday friday and Sunday. Prices start from B4,510 per person per way. Visit: tourism.rajasthan.gov.in/jaipur

20 DINING

Sunset Sala Mark Knowles editor1@classactmedia.co.th

riving up to the north of Phuket is a bit like going back in time, once you pass the airport turn-off the traffic dwindles, the scenery gets greener, and you feel like you’ve travelled back to the rural idyll that was Phuket 20 years ago. Tucked away on a winding backroad is the hidden oasis of Sala Phuket. We entered the resort, heading past the breezy reception and its huge reflection pond, just as the sun was beginning to set over a deserted Mai Khao Beach. The friendly staff seated us quickly and soon after we were sipping a fruity mango and mint lassi (lassi is a kind of Indian-style drinking yoghurt) as the suns rays faded into the horizon. We snacked on some of the fluffy, freshlybaked naan breads dipped in creamy satay sauce while we consulted the menu. The menu at Sala features an array both traditional and new-takes on popular Thai dishes, enhanced by the chef’s skill, fresh herbs and spices, and designed to highlight the best of the island’s seafood. There are also several Western-style dishes for the less adventurous, but even these often have a flourish of Thai-inspired flavours or garnish to keep things interesting. We started off with the lamb meat

balls, slowly braised in a mild massaman-like peanut curry, garnished with goat cheese sour cream and grilled flat herb bread. This interesting take on the traditional Thai massaman curry was a resounding success, the sauce was a deep orange colour and simply bursting with flavour, the sour cream perfectly cutting the richness of the sauce with its creamy refreshing coolness. We used the warm bread to wipe the bowl clean not wanting to miss any of the delicious sauce. Now our appetites had fired up we tried the mieng goong som o – barbecued prawns diced and served with minced pomelo, mint, shallots, toasted coconut, cashew nuts, diced chillies, tamarind dressing and romaine leaves. You eat it by forming a little package filled with your choice of ingredients and wrapping them in a lettuce leaf. Again, this is a twist of the classic Thai appetiser that traditionally features betel leaves instead of lettuce. My Thai companion was particularly fond of this dish and I really enjoyed the complex mix of flavours all packed in to one mouthful. For mains I settled on the Australian Black Angus beef tenderloin – barbecued, topped with herb marinated grilled rock lobster tail and served with mild coconut green curry. The steak was juicy and tender, and although I’ve never come across this combination, the mild green curry sauce was perfect

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Watch the sun set over Mai Khao Beach from your table at Sala Phuket.

Lamb meat balls in peanut curry were a highlight.

The Mieng goong som o was colourful and tasty.

with both the lobster and the beef. Also served with the steak is an array of unusual salts and homemade mustards. From Himalayan pink salt to matcha green tea salt and a handmade honey mustard blend, these condiments made a colourful addition to the table. And despite my initial scepticism each type of salt really does seem to enhance the flavour of the beef in a unique way. My companion had the duck leg, which is cured overnight, then braised for nine hours, pan seared to crisp the skin and served on a bed of kale sautéed with garlic confit and mustard

cream garnished with caramelised onions. This novel approach to cooking the duck resulted in the meat being meltin-the-mouth tender, coming away on pieces at the mere touch of a fork. The meal left us wanting to discover more of surprises that lie in wait at Sala and given that the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, it’s the perfect place to drop into anytime you are in the north of the island or heading over Sarasin Bridge for a day trip. For more information or bookings visit: salaresorts.com/phuket

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT 21

Trainspotting back after 21 years

Mark McLaughlin

t was the shocking, surreal, drugfuelled movie that defined a generation. Two decades later, the ageing Scottish lowlifes of Trainspotting are back with a new sequel which premièred recently in Edinburgh. T2: Trainspotting reunites Ewan McGregor, Robert Carlyle, Jonny Lee Miller and Ewen Bremner with now Oscar-winning director Danny Boyle. Renton, the character that launched the career of Star Wars actor McGregor, returns to Edinburgh after years away – and his friends Begbie, Sick Boy and Spud are there waiting, as dysfunctional as ever. While the first movie was shot mostly in Glasgow, despite being set in the once heroin-blighted Edinburgh suburb of Leith, T2 sees the Scottish capital take on a central role. “It was lovely to shoot here in Edinburgh, and you feel that Edinburgh is much more of a character in this film than it was in the first one, and it’s absolutely right that we are here for the premiere,” McGregor said on the red carpet. Two decades on, Sick Boy (Miller) is a pimp exploiting the wave of gentrification that has swept the city, psycho Begbie (Carlyle) is an escaped convict and burglar, and Spud (Bremer) is still “on the skag”. Heroin has been relegated to a bit-part behind cocaine and Via-

@thephuketnews

Ewan McGregor returns as Renton. Photo: P Bird

Robert Carlyle plays Begbie. Photo: Vagueonthehow

gra, Begbie is even more foul-mouthed and menacing than ever, and there are plenty more gut-wrenching gross out scenes to match Spud’s breakfast table surprise in the first movie. But despite the tough scenes, Bremer said the film has “a lot of humour in it”. “It’s based on the real struggle of what it is to get by, you know, why people fill their lives with something... whether it is heroin or whatever they find to fill the void and heal the pain,” he said. There are references throughout to the first movie, including to its hugely successful soundtrack with a remix of Iggy Pop’s “Lust for Life”. Irvine Welsh, author of the Trainspotting novel, said the inclusion of Edinburgh group Young Fathers gave the new film a “distinctive Edinburgh feel”.

“They’re fantastic artists, and Danny very much saw them as being the voice of Trainspotting 2,” he said at the première. While new voices appear on the soundtrack, Boyle said bringing the earlier cast back for T2 saw them add their two decades of experience. “They stepped back into the roles... they factored in their own 20 years of experience into their characters and they were off and on their way,” he said. Expectations are high after the first film, which was made for just $3 million in 1996, won critical acclaim and grossed over $70mn worldwide. Reviews so far have been largely positive – The Guardian said it was not as good as the first, but “has the same punchy energy, the same defiant pessimism, and there’s nothing

around like it”. T2 is about betrayal and reconciliation, both in front and behind the camera. In Trainspotting, Renton ditched his friends and ran off to Amsterdam with the takings of a big drug deal. Boyle and McGregor, who worked together on Shallow Grave and A Life Less Ordinary, also fell out after the director cast Leonardo DiCaprio in The Beach. AFP

22 ISLAND SCENE

From left: Stephen Hughes and Keynote Speaker Michael Weatherley.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

From left: Jan Perry and Nadia Lutsenko.

From left: Greg Watkins, Michael Weatherley and Pierre-Andre Pelletier.

From left: Amy and Stephen Hughes

UK INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY EXPERT SPEAKS AT BCCT PHUKET BUSINESS DINNER The British Chamber of Commerce in Thailand (BCCT), hosted one of its regular Phuket Business Dinner's at the Amari Phuket in Patong on Monday (Feb 13). Guest speaker Michael Weatherley, a former Conservative MP for Hove, focused on the topic “Brexit – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats”. The event was organised in collaboration with French, German and Netherlands Chambers of Commerce.

From left: Dr Kosol Taengutai, Phuket City Deputy Mayor and President of the Thai Peranakan Association; Anoma Wongyai, Director of Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phuket Office; Ms Siwaporn Chuasawad, Vice Governor of Phuket; Chef Audra Morrice; and David Seet, Senior Assistant Vice President, Laguna Phuket.

The festival will feature Laguna's resident chefs as well as guest chefs.

From left: Jason, Nate and Nat.

Guests tuck into a salad prepared by Celebrity Chef Audra Morrice.

LAGUNA LAUNCHES ITS INAUGURAL FOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL FOR 2017 Laguna Phuket unveiled its inaugural Laguna Phuket Food & Music Festival at a special media conference at XANA Beach Club at Bang Tao Beach last Thursday (Feb 9). The three-day charity festival, to be held at Laguna Phuket from Friday through Sunday (March 3-5) will also feature live music, entertainment and appearances by celebrity chefs and stars. The media showcase included a Thai dessert station where delectable fruit shaped desserts (Kanom Look Choup) were being demonstrated by Phuket children. The showcase concluded with a cooking demo of salmon “Lo Hei” (sashimi salad) by Celebrity Chef Audra Morrice who was appointed the Creative Chef of Laguna Phuket Food & Music Festival. thephuketnews

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ISLAND SCENE 23

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

The PIWC ladies enjoying coffee and conversation at their monthly meeting.

Local residents dressed in white to partake in the traditional ‘wian thian’ at Anupaskrisdaram (Ketho) Temple in Phuket.

PHUKET MARKS MAKHA BUCHA DAY Last Saturday evening (Feb 11), the Makha Bucha full-moon day, temples around Thailand held a candlelight procession called a wian thian (wian meaning to circle around; thian meaning candle). Holding flowers, incense and a lighted candle, the monks and congregation members circumambulate clockwise three times around the phra ubosot (ordination hall), once for each of the Three Jewels: the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha.

Centara Grand staff members donate bottle caps at the Phuket Environment Office.

PIWC LADIES ENJOY THEIR MONTHLY MEET AND GREET AT STARBUCKS Members of the Phuket International Womens Club (PIWC) gathered in Starbucks at Central Festival last week for some good coffee and conversation as part of their regular monthly sip-and-chat event.

Centara Grand staff members donate dog food and other essentials to Soi Dog.

CENTARA GRAND DONATES TO PHUKET ENVIRONMENT OFFICE AND SOI DOG Last Friday (Feb 10), staff members from Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket and Centara Villas Phuket visited the Phuket Environment Office to donate bottlecaps that will go to make prostheses for people with disabilities. On the same day, staff also visited the Soi Dog Foundation to donate linen, clothes and dog food.

THAILAND SHOWCASES ITSELF AS A DREAM WEDDING DESTINATION

From left: A Japanese couple taking part in the promotion, Prot Settasuwan, Srisuda Wanaphinyosak, Thanet Petchsuwan and a Czech couple also taking part.

From left: Mr Phidet Chawaldit, Ms Tanyaruck Chawaldit, Ms Sutida Vichitkulwongsa and Mr Kritapong Chawaldit.

Mr Breno Lima and his bride to be Larissa.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has selected nine couples from nine different countries for exclusive wedding ceremonies to take place in Thailand’s most romantic cities under the “Thailand Wedding Destiny” campaign. A total of nine professional wedding organisers have joined in to make sure the wedding experiences for each selected couple will be more than impressive. Held from February 8-12, the Thailand Wedding Destiny’s special wedding ceremonies are designed to encourage foreigners to get married in the Kingdom.

The team from SB Design Square Phuket celebrate the store’s 10th anniversary.

SB DESIGN SQUARE PHUKET CELEBRATES ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY Furniture and homewares retailer SB Design Square Phuket celebrated its 10th anniversary last Saturday (Feb 11). The company now has 12 branches across Thailand. To mark the occasion the company donated B400,0000 to victims of the recent floods in southern Thailand. @thephuketnews

24 EVENTS

FRI

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

marathon 12km, Fun Run 5.7km and Family Run 3.5km. Apply at registration booth, 3rd floor, New Building, Phuket International Hospital on Feb 14 - 17 (9.00 - 17.00 hrs.), Feb 18 (9.00 - 22.00 hrs.) and Feb 19 (4.00 - 5.30 am). Download the entry form www.phuketinternationalhospital.com Proudly sponsored by Khao Phuket.

17 FEB All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet

Thai Seafood and Meat BBQ

ALL YOU CAN EAT BBQ RIBS

Come join us for our WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY served ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Indulge in All You Can Eat BBQ Pork Ribs, Chicken and Sides for ONLY 395 BAHT! Our BBQ is famous at Two Chefs! Come try us out and enjoy our mouthwatering pork ribs, flavor-bursting chicken and more! Join us for Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band! Come for the FOOD - Stay for the FUN at Two Chefs!!! www.twochefs. com Kata Beach 076-333-370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344-914.

THB 999++ @ Lobby Terrace (Weather permiting) from 19:00 – 22:00 hrs. The most amazing and delicious BBQ at Kata Beach Join us for this culinary extravaganza where ‘Authentic’ Thai dishes (and some Western items) are served ‘buffet’ style. Our Chef will arrange truly 100% fresh seafood from our fisherman and also prime meats for this special event… We are very confident you will love this event. Reservations: Nook Dee - Kata Beach, 076 688 888.

SAT

18 FEB Sunday Roast All Day All Night

Live Sports at Expat Hotel

Pool Competition at Expat Sports Bar

The competition at 9pm - Expat Sports Bar at the Expat Hotel Soi Taipan Patong. See map at www.expathotel.com.

NRL,AFL,Soccer,RugbyUnion.Anylivesport, wewillshowit.ExpatHotel,SoiTaipan,Patong. www.expatsportsbar.com.

SUN

Beef, Pork & Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, fried mushrooms, grilled tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding – roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes – gravy, mushroom sauce, mint sauce. Reservation recommended 350 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

19 FEB

Come enjoy a Traditional Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY at Two Chefs Kata Beach, Kata Center, Karon and Patong! Indulge ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT for 395 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 - Stay for the FUN! www.twochefs. com Kata Beach 076-333-370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344-914.

Go Live Sunday Seafood Brunch

Mussels night @ Shakers

1.2kg mussels served with french fries, your choice, your style: nature, marnière, provençale, garlic & cream or Thai style. Reservations recommended B295 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

Mediterranean Sunday Brunch at Metzo’s

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach

Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice of either roast beef, chicken, loin of pork or leg of lamb served with roast and boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Only B350 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See: otools-phuket.com.

Feast to your heart’s content on our Mediterranean menu of mezze and tapas served family style at your table, live cooking station, kids’ corner and dessert buffet. After brunch, why not relax and take in the view of the Andaman Sea with complimentary access to the resort swimming pool. Starting from THB 990++ per person. Reservations, Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort, metzos@outrigger.co.th, 076 360 600.

Friday is Wine & Tapas night at Cape Sienna Hotel Kamala

All you can eat Tapas with one bottle of Regular White or Red: Baht 1,490 net per person. Premium White, Red, Rose and Bubbly: Baht 1,790 net per person. Tapas starts: 19:00 – 22:00. Located Vanilla Sky Bar, Cape Sienna Hotel, Kamala. 076 337 300.

Sunday Fun Brunch

Phuket’s most popular brunch experience. Seafood, live station, entertainment, kid’s corner and massage corner. From 1,650++ THB. 12.00 - 15.30. Reservation: info@xanabeachclub.com 076 358 500.

RUN FOR HEALTH RUN FOR CHARITY

The 5th mini-marathon with royal trophies is taking place on Sunday, February 19, 2017 from 4am onwards at Phuket International Hospital. Race distance: Mini

The Banyan Tree Seafood Brunch experience returns with a generous selection of live fresh, local and imported seafood with exception Lobster dished, Japanese starters, mouth-watering meats, Asia wok and Western grill treats. Gourmet cuisine, exceptional service, Live Jazz and tranquil surroundings, The Banyan Tree has something for everyone! Every Sunday 12.00-15.30, price start from 2,800net per person.Reservations, Banyan Tree Phuket, fb-phuket@banyantree.com, 076 372 400.

MON

20 FEB

All you can eat BBQ night

6PM – 11PM: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns & Squids, salad buffet, Choice of potatoes and sauces, bread, buns and garlic bread. Reservation recommended. 395 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

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EVENTS 25

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

WED

22 FEB

from 9pm until late. Enjoy mouthwatering dishes, food and fun all night long! RESERVE Now: Kata Center 076-330-065 www.twochefs.com

FRI

3 MAR

SUN

19 MAR

Dine 4 Pay 3 Oriental Buffet Dinner Extravaganza

Embark on a journey to the four corners of Asia and enjoy a lavish array of Thai, Chinese, Japanese and other Oriental recipes. Develop your taste buds and experience new flavours; ranging from spicy curries to barbecued meats and local noodle plates, while watching our Chefs work their magic in the lively kitchen every Wednesday from 18:00 – 22:00 for THB 999 per person at Bubbles Restaurant, Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas. Reservations, Bubbles Restaurant, Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas, h8109@ accor.com, 076 231 999.

Supersports 10 Mile International Run

Thanyapura Phuket, in cooperation with Supersports, Thailand’s leading sports retailer, will organise the third edition of the Supersports 10 Mile International Run in March 2017, with an expected crowd of over 3,000 runners. This challenging race is open to runners of all ages, featuring four running distances and categories from 500 meters to 10 miles. Register online at thanyapura.com Proudly sponsored by Khao Phuket.

EVERY DAY All you can eat BBQ Ribs night

6PM – 11PM: All you can eat BBQ Ribs served with salad buffet, potato salad & choice of sauces. Reservation recommended. 350 baht P.P. shakersphuket@ gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

STEVE AOKI Live at Illuzion

Steve Aoki debuts at ILLUZON Phuket. The most popular EDM DJ will be spinning an EXCLUSIVE LIVE SET and of course throwing his popular CAKES! WEDNESDAY 22nd FEBRUARY Standard pre save Ticket 1,000 THB. VIP RESERVATION: +66 98.024.6369 | rsvn@illuzionphuket. com

SAT

Laguna Phuket Food & Music Festival 2017

Laguna Phuket Food & Music Festival 2017. Proceeds go to Children First Fund for orphanages in Phuket. Friday March 3 Pop-up Dinners at Laguna Phuket Hotels Saturday March 4 Food & Music Festival at Canal Village - Free entry and Charity Gala Dinner at Latitude Marquee Sunday March 5 Supper Sunday Brunch at XANA Beach Club. Ticket for Charity Gala Dinner available from Feb 1 at Laguna Phuket Hotel: B3,000/person or B28,000 for table of ten. For tickets and more info please contact Laguna Phuket. Proudly sponsored by Live 89.5 and Khao Phuket.

MON

La Gritta’s Discovery Menu

Take your taste buds on a culinary tour through some of the finest Italian flavours. Chef Patrizia has created a six-course discovery menu consisting of the appetiser, main course and dessert, priced at 1,590 THB++ per person. The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. Reservations, lagritta@amari.com, 076 292 697.

All Day Breakfast at Cafe Siam

Aussie bacon & egg rolls NOW at Cafe Siam. All day breakfast, just like mum makes. Lavazza Coffee, healthy snacks & salads. Find us at the Entrance of The Royal Paradise Complex, Patong. Mon Sat 8.30am - 4.00pm. Facebook: CafeSiamGuesthousePhuket 081 676 9411.

6 MAR

25 FEB 7 Nights 7 Themed Dinners at Rim Talay

ABBA Night

Don’t miss out on Feb 25th 2017 at Two Chefs Kata Center for a memorable evening! Our Famous House Band will be performing all of your favorite ABBA songs

@thephuketnews

Ride 4 Kids

Hua Hin to Phuket, 835 KMS in 6 Days. 3 charities, 1 mission. Donations accepted at www.ride4kids.co

Make each night unique! Enjoy our themed dinners with the cool sea breeze. World of Curries @790 THB++, Thai & International Buffet @790 THB++, Seafood Night @980 THB++, Ribs, Wings & Rings @770 THB++, Butchers Night @market price, Surf & Turf @950 THB++,Thai Seafood Gala @980 THB++.The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. For reservations, email rimtalay@ amari.com or call 076 340106-14 #8027

DAILY EVENT UPDATES ON

26 TIME OUT

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 1. How many islands are in Phuket Province? 2. What is Taylor Swift’s real name? 3. What was Rudyard Kipling’s given first name? 4. Which cycling event has the nickname the ‘big loop’? 5. Which golf club has hosted the Open nine times, most recently in 2016? Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

Across 1. Show horse 5. Deadly poison 9. Word with hot or home 14. Jerk 15. Lover boy? 16. Bioweapon 17. Convention addresses 20. Brininess 21. One who puts you in your place 22. Lose color 23. Shade provider 24. Bad-smelling flower? 27. Objections 31. Bounty 32. Slight sound 33. Revelation response 34. Protected, in a way 38. Orinoco, e.g. 39. “___, Babylon” (Frank novel) 40. Gonzo 41. Post-Renaissance language 44. Unit of measurement

45. Marine fish family, for short 46. Drilling grp. 47. Spiraling form 49. Pays 53. Hard work, maybe 55. Million followers 56. Kind of skirt 57. Seasons 58. Still 59. Parker and Waterman 60. Left at sea? . Down 1. ___ for trouble 2. Hera’s mother 3. Organic radical 4. Innkeeper 5. Happen to 6. Sharp spur 7. Like a yenta 8. Telesthesia 9. Determined in advance 10. Chinese tree 11. Must or pan follower 12. Level 13. Banner has two 18. Wild ass

19. Moon of Jupiter 23. Marches 24. Turn back 25. “It’s a Wonderful Life” role 26. Merry ___ 27. Ice cream flavor 28. Female principle, in Hinduism 29. “Over ___” (Cohan tune) 30. One who speaks 32. Salk’s conquest 35. In recent times 36. Intellectual 37. Topper for lazy pupil 42. Knockout 43. Check 44. Sinkers 46. Bow application 47. Spiny shrub 48. On earth 49. John Paul II, e.g. 50. Kind of lily 51. Tech support caller 52. Snoop Dogg CD 53. ___ chi ch’uan 54. Common meas.

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) 33 (including Phuket); 2); Taylor Alison Swift; 3) Joseph; 4) The Tour de France; 5) Royal Troon

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

February 17, 1600 Philosopher Giordano Bruno is burned alive for heresy in Rome for proposing that the stars were distant suns surrounded by their own planets and that these planets could even foster life.

3.5

inches is the minimum height of heels to be worn by runners in the 100-metre Stiletto Run in Haarlem, Netherlands.

February 18, 1930 Elm Farm Ol l ie b e comes the f i r st cow to f ly in a fixed-wing aircraft and also the first cow to be milked in an aircraft. (Portrait painted by E. D. Thalinger)

times more bacteria can be found on a mobile phone screen than on a toilet seat.

February 19, 1878 Thomas Edison patents the phonograph.

per cent of the liquor consumed in the world is home-brewed.

1,000

February 20, 1971 The United States Emergency Broadcast System is accidentally activated in an erroneous national alert.

per cent is the boost in digital sales Lady Gaga enjoyed after her Super Bowl LI performance.

February 21, 1245 Thomas, the first known Bishop of Finland, is granted resignation after confessing to torture and forgery.

350 million people in the world are estimated to suffer from depression – highlighting the fact that they are not alone. Source: Uberfacts

This week in history

February 22, 2006 At least six men stage Britain’s biggest robbery, stealing £53m (about B3.23 billion today) from a Securitas depot in Tonbridge, Kent.

Tokay for dinner. Photo by Michael Way Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket? Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

February 23, 1991 Gen Sunthorn Kongsompong leads a bloodless coup, deposing Thai Prime Minister Chatichai Choonhavan. Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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ADVERTISING SERVICES

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STORAGE Reserve Your Storage Space

Call 076 29 29 09

or visit mystorageasia.com

 Sizes to Suit all Budgets  Personal & Business Storage  Motorcycle Storage  Left Luggage Service  We Sell Boxes  Storage Insurance Inclusive

Secure, Clean & Cost Effective Self Storage Jungceylon Shopping Center, Patong, Phuket

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LOST & FOUND Missing Person

Martin Perter Ingram (son of Roy Percival Ingram). Last known of in Thailand in 2010. Any person with knowledge of the current whereabouts of Mr Ingram is request to contact Title Research in the UK (info@titleresearch. com) or our local agent Spectrum Asia (02 626 0250).

ACTIVITIES, GROUPS Sign up today for a discount code

The new website for Tiya’s hammocks is ready! Visit now at: native-habitat.com and subscribe for a discount code to use for online shopping. Tiya: hammockphuket@yahoo.com, 076 631 841.

BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE 3-engine speedboat for sale

3-engine speedboat, Length 13.5m., width 3.4m. Capacity 45 pax + 3 crew. Front seats. Good condition. Incl 3 Honda engines. B1,800,000. Vladimir 084 182 8685.

Long Tail Boat For Sale

Ready to go “Long Tail Boat” with or Without Captain (Thai) Get special price, please call 085 781 9167 (English) Bangtao Beach, Phuket, B275,000, giorgionaef@aol.com, 085 781 9167.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

MEMBERSHIPS

Life Time Family Membership Looking for investor / partner Boating deal of the year: Blue Canyon: 750,000 THB includes 140,000 transfer fee. Looking for investor / partnership for Patong beach front 7.5m baht (reduced Loch Palms: 425,000 THB includes 72,000 transfer fee. location to start with Japanese and Indian restaurant. from 10m baht)

Due to serious health reasons, the owner must part with his beloved 80’ tour boat. New wiring throughout, power outlets, transformer and voltage meters. New upholstery throughout bar and entertainment area. Engines & generator fully reconditioned & serviced. All maintained to European standards. Ideal boat for quality day trip business. beachsando1@gmail.com, 080 695 3933.

Steel boat for sale

32 metre steel boat for sale. Built 2012, 2 x Cummings engines, 10hrs work only. International REG. Excellent for live-aboard or ferry. Price 6MB. Contact: call Joe 087 8918912 or email joe@similan-divers.com.

Narin, narinpga@gmail.com, 081 826 9390.

CAR FOR SALE Nissan Juke 2014

Sporty, compact car, one lady owner. 1.6 with 3 drive modes, sport, normal or eco. Keyless push button start, rear view camera, leather interior in red and black. Bluetooth and wifi capable stereo with hands free. Serviced by Nissan. THB600,000 or near offer. Call 081 270 2180 (ENG).

Convertible

Mercedes CLK 200 Cabriolet W-209 Brabus Package - seat 4. Excellent condition and fun to drive. 37,400km. 1,199,000 Bht. Eng - Thai 094 695 3536 / 063 992 3226.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Beauty Salon with Equipment

For Sale, Nai Harn Beauty Salon with Equipment & lease, B290,000. Salon Equipment replacement cost is more than B300,000. All equipment shown as new. Must view to see excellent opportunity to purchase Salon for extremely good price in prime location. Call Nok for details 098 017 8818.

Restaurant set up for sale

Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8G VVTI

2013 - 35,000km - Automatic White - CD Radio, Air-con, Alloys Excellent Condition, Only used for school runs. 525,000, Duang, Royal Phuket Marina, gavinmullins@hotmail. com, 083 093 9724. s al

Honda Jazz 2009 1500cc

A fully equipped restaurant in the highly rgent Auto sought after Boat Avenue mall in Laguna. U 57,000km. One owner since new. Stainless steel kitchen, Wi-Fi, bar counter, Regularly serviced by Honda. Tax and service area. Ready to go in days. Email: Insurance until the end of June and available now at right jukeboxphuket@gmail.com, 081 090 1608. offer. Reduced by 40,000 bht, REDUCED to 330,000bht o.n.o, Andy +66846909144, andysmalster@gmail.com Price reduced for quick sale

No, not a bar or guesthouse, but a manufacturing business for wooden window blinds. All the machinery and inventory of parts to be up and running in a matter of days. A very successful business in Phuket for over eight years. Price reduced to 2 mil Baht. Owner will partially finance. lamsden@phuketemail.com, 081 487 4812. @thephuketnews

MEMBERSHIPS

Loch Palm Golf Membership

Lifetime Loch Palm Golf membership for sale. ฿485,000, the Loch Palm transfer fee of ฿72,000 will be shared equally between the buyer and seller. Contact J. Trenton Early, jtrenton.early@gmail.com

Tanita, 094 695 3536 / 063 992 3226.

MOVING SERVICES Looking for Moving Company?

With over 15 years of experience Bigmove Phuket is the number 1 provider of moving and shipping in and out of Phuket Thailand. We provide storage in a state of the art clean, secure, storage facility located centrally in Phuket. www.bigmovephuket.com, 081 797 5377.

PETS, BOARDING A pure breed, male Doberman

A pure breed, male Doberman, 4 1/2 years old, from Germany imported parents from a German breeder ( NO backyard dog breeder!!! ) is, due serious medical condition of its owner, available for free. The new owner must have space and time for this highly intelligent dog. If you never had a dog before, this is not a dog for you. Serious interested people call: 084 713 3707.

REAL ESTATE SERVICES Phuket real estate tour

Real estate investment tours are specially designed to help you to achieve your investment goals with the right property in the right location. You will get advice on the multitude of lucrative investment opportunities in Phuket. md@ tourasian.com, 080 826 4665.

WEBSITES, IT For Sale: hoteldealsphuket.com

PHD has 125,000 pages indexed in Google and an average of 22,000 page views per month! See stats image. Also see the selling points on the link below. Quick sale: 33.000B!, Mark, mr.m.hopkins@gmail.com

32 CLASSIFIEDS

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/thephuketnews

PROPERTY FOR SALE Condominium for sale

Freehold 32.5 Sq.M. Studio type. Price 3.6MB. Swimming pool on roof. Absolute Bangla Suites. Bruno, brunomeier1945@hotmail.com

Property for sale

Large building near airport and sea view land near Bang Pae Waterfall for sale or lease. Any reasonable offers accepted. Lana, Lana.phuket@gmail.com, 080 271 6484.

Land near By Pass road

4 Rai 3 Ngan 45.1 Sq.wah (1,945.10 Sq.wah)near Bypass Rd., easy to go to the downtown or Airport. On the main road, suitable for developments such as Townhome, Hotel ect. Sarinthorn, phuket@plus.co.th, 076 681 188 or 084 555 3178.

House for sale

Private pool villa with lovely garden half a rai. Quite and safe area. 3 bedroom 2 bathroom open kitchen. 160 m2 Situated in Ban Pahra. 12 minutes to PIA, Phuket Airport, Nay Yang beach, and Blue Canyon Golf course. 2 min to Mission Hill Golf course. 7.5 million baht, bergsstigen@telia.com, 090 701 4204.

Penthouse for quick sale

265 sqm, sea and mountain view in Kamala. Foreign freehold. Reduced to 9.9mn, fully furnished!! info@ sunny-property.com , 083 105 2707.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Foreign freehold corner unit

76 sqm, sea and mountain view in Patong Tower, Patong. Reduced to 8.8mn. Special deal with car, info@sunnyproperty.com, 083 105 2707.

Condominium for sale

Foreign Freehold 150 SQM Huge Ground Floor 2 Bed, 2 Bath condo. 150m to Nai Harn Beach. 7.7M THB. Owner, paulover@hotmail.com, 089 875 4173.

House for sale

Rawai Samki 3 with Chonote. 2 Bed, 2 Bath, big living room, 1 storage, 1 laundry. House 160 sqm, land 280 sqm. 3MB. rico9963@hotmail.com, 083 640 9041.

House for sale

Good location in Chalong area. 3 Bedroom 2 Bathroom, 200 sqm. House on 800 sqm plot. Including furniture, 084 745 5546.

Pool Villa Mission Heights

Villa with salt pool, 330sqm, 3 bed, 3.5 bath, 900sqm chanote, owner finance, near mission hill golf 2km. 6km PIA, 8km airport. Call 087 060 8400. B16.9 million. Charly, Mission Heights, picharly@gmail.com

New Sea View Villa

Premium villa 8B in the prestiques Sunrise Ocean Villas development is now for sale. Being built on the highest point in the estate, only 80 meter from the ocean and located 3 mins away from Grand Ao Po Marina, 10 mins from golf course, 20 mins from the airport, shopping centers, schools and hospitals, this villa is a perfect place to live with no traffic, no polution and no mass tourism. Over 600 Sqm usable building area, 3 bedrooms, guest apartment, maid quater, games room, 10 metre infinity swimming pool, roof terrace and breath taking views. Can be ready to move in within 8 weeks and still can be customized to the wishes of new owner. For sale at only 27.9 mill baht. For viewing or more information please contact our sales director, Khun Montha on: 081 343 0777 or email: montha_phuket@yahoo.com

Beautiful Land in Rawai For Sale

Beautiful mountain view with option of sea view land of 742m2 for sale in Rawai with chanote title. For more information contact 085 790 2021.

Kay McDonnell

I have a number of FIRE SALE PROPERTIES from 1.5 MTB to 47MTB. Condos/Houses/Villas Please contact me if you are looking for bargains in the south of the island.080 124 1245, kay@pare.com

COMMUNITY

Apartment

1.65mill. 60qm 2bed 2bath + 30qm balcony, liv-kitchen, 3 a/c, quality doors/wind., Dream Village near mission hill golf, tel: 087 383 8709.

HERE IS THE FUTURE. 17 RAI FOR SALE

Between Kok Loi and Thai Muang, 38 km from the airport, we are selling a beautiful peice of land with 2 new houses. A perfect place for artists or a sport resort. The land is more than 17 Rai, full of old trees, with a big private lake and located directly behind the river. Chanote title. With a canoe it takes 20 min to paddle to the sea. A great opportunity for a fair price. Price 9.5M, Yupin, residler@gmail.com, 081 817 4805 Thai, Eng, Deutsch. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 33

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Buy&Sell

PROPERTY FOR SALE Land for sale in Saku - Phuket

1 to 5 Rai. Chanote. 10 mins south to the airport. Nice quiet location near Naiyang - Naithon Beach. Fixed price only 2.6Mil Baht per Rai. Kanchana, kanchanajit09@gmail.com, 087 076 6016.

X2 Vibe Phuket Bangtao

Welcoming investor with high yield return 21%. X2 is a privately owned chain of design hotels based out of Thailand. B4.59 M. Hot deal, Pro, Full Fur. Contact Irene, 139 Soi Cherngtalay 16, Srisoonthron Rd., Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket, sales@oceanstone phuket.com, 095 037 8150.

Apartment Country Golf Club House

One room with kitchen in main house Country Club. 6th floor with balcony 75sqm. Membership in Country Club included. Price 3.3 Million THB. Contact pzw@gmx.at Per Dompert, 086 043 4315 (English and German)

Outstanding Beach Front Pool Villa

A rare opportunity to purchase a 4 bedroom beachfront villa in a 5* resort at The Village Coconut Island. A “snip” at 22m THB. Contact email aadmo@btinternet. com, Somjit, aadmo@btinternet.com, 081 9791945.

Prime Land near Natai Beach

13 Rai. Prime flat land, Full Chanote. 5 mins to beautiful Natai Beach, 5 mins to Khok Kloi, 20 mins from Phuket Airport. Close to temples, beach & mountain views, perfect for large property or subdivide for development. B13,500,000, Antoine (Thai & English), 081 979 9307, dannyred@hotmail.com

House for Sale

3 bed, 2 bath, living/dining, Farang & Thai kitchens. Back/both sides under cover. Water fall/relax area. BBQ area under cover/car port. 4 aircons/7 fans. Very private, close to all services, 500 meters from Heroines Monument. B4.9 mil. o.n.o. Contact Randy. Email randyalltime@gmail.com

LAND NEAR WATERFALL FOR SALE

Beautiful, gently sloping land for sale near Bang Pae waterfall. Good road, 3-phase power. NS3 paper (upgrade applied for). 7 rai, B4m/rai. 087 884 9964 (En) or 087 272 5594 (Th). alasdair.phuket@gmail.com

Ten Room Villa for sale

With 5 Rai land. 5 sleeping rooms, 5 bathrooms, 5 balconies, 2 kitchens, big living room, play room, lobby, car port. Hillside Maikhao Beach sunset seaview. Asking price 24 MB. julius_schuster2001@ yahoo.de, 087 267 1192. @thephuketnews

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/thephuketnews

PROPERTY FOR SALE House for Sale

House at Land and House for sale. 2-storey with 3 bedrooms, living room, kitchen, balcony, jacuzzi, library, laundry. Near kids’ playground, two swimming pools, sauna, gym. Enough land to build a second house on the same plot. Ekaterina Oseledets, 095 861 7571.

Land For Sale

Land for sale. Anuphas Golf Ville, Kathu. 81 sq wah. Golf course view of Phuket CC. Quiet village, convenient location. E-mail for details Contact David, d1jarvis@hotmail.com

PROPERTY FOR RENT House for rent. Nr Wat Chalong

3 Bed/4 baths house in quiet estate. Available from April 1st to Oct 31st. email me or phone me, Paul, for photos and full details. 25,000 pcm, PAUL WHITTALL, Phuket Private Lagoon, Chao Fa West Road, Chalong, pwhittall@aol.com, 093 793 4258.

Karon Beach House for rent

96 sqm. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 40 sqm. living room. Long lease only, B18,000, Narumon, naruchai@gmx. de, 082 576 6162.

PRIME LAND+BLDG @CHALONG PIER

Seaview Building with land 50m to Chalong Pier for Rent/Long Term Lease. 1.5Rai+bldg. Ideal for Hotel, Community Mall, Restaurants. Wirote, 081 931 5189.

House For sale or rent Baan Manik (Cherngtalay)

Attractive 3 bed, 2 bathroom detached house for sale or rent. Set in quiet surroundings but with easy access to Laguna, Boat avenue, PIA, airport, Surin, Bangtao and Layan beaches. The property boasts many additional features including, Auto-gate, Western-styled kitchen, security system, natural stone floors, imported ceiling fans, 12volt LED Garden Lighting and air-con throughout. Asking B4.5 Million Negotiable Rent 25K Per Month Fully furnished or 20K per month unfurnished. 081 9686 051.

CHALONG BEACH FRONT LAND

Beach Front 40m. Long and short term. 1 and half rai(600sq.m.) Mr. Narin, narinpga@gmail.com, 081 826 9390.

Family Pool Villa Rawai

4 Bedroom 4 bathroom 5,000 Baht per night/3 bedroom 3 bathroom 4,000 Baht per night. Quality Furnishings. Contact: rawaihillvillasphuket@gmail.com or 091 654 6249.

PROPERTY FOR RENT Vassana Residence. Rawai

Fully furnished 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom. WiFi and cable TV included in price. 160sqm in size. Jacuzzi in each apartment. BBQ area on the roof. Contact vassana.residence@gmail.com. Rawai / NaiHarn, Eng.087 882 9604.

Kata Western Apartment

1 and 2 115sqm furnished apartments, full kitchen, huge covered terraces, mountain and seaview. 1 month minimum, 1 year lease starting B20,000/month. gordy240@hotmail.com, 084 840 1262.

Office/Shop for Rent

Ground Floor space with excellent positioning on Chalong Pier Road. For more information, please call 081 416 4177 or 076 381 341.

Two condos for sale/rent

2 condos for sale 48 sqm. - sale price $60,000 (developer’s price $116,000) & 54.5 sqm. - sale price $70,000 (developer’s price $128,000). Fully furnished, near Central, Big C, BIS, Lotus, hospitals, schools. Communal pool and gym. Short & long time rent available: 48 sqm – THB 10,000-15,000 per month; 54.5 sqm – THB 15,000-20,000 per month + electricity & water. Ekaterina Oseledets, 095 861 7571.

ROOM FOR RENT

Room for rent in attractive house Baan Manik (not far from Anthem wakeboard park). Convenient location for access to Laguna, Boat avenue, Airport and PIA. House is equipped with, Air-con, Internet, Expat-TV, foreign kitchen, washing machine, fridge etc. 8,000 Baht PCM + Share of Bills. Please email bluebeyond@me.com or call 081 968 6051 for a viewing.

Kamala Villa for rent

5 Bedrooms Villa available for long term, normally 10,000 Baht Nightly price Long lease 70,000 Baht monthly for 1 year minimum, Include pool, garden, courtyard maintenance. Suitable for large or two families. Wanphen, kamalagym2@gmail. com, 080 697 7729.

Villas & Apts Rent-Chalong

2- and 3-bedroom pool villas, 2-bedroom townhouses & studio apartments. Special prices from 700/night or 8,000/month. Rates include WiFi, maid service, cable TV, furnishings. Great location near Big Buddha. info@chalongapartment.com, 086 282 6221, www.chalongapartment.com

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

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FRIDAY,FEBRUARY 17, 2017

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STUNNING VILLA SURROUNDED BY LUSH PLANTATION, Kamala 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 750 spm

15,000,000 THB

This exquisite 6 bedroom pool villa with large indoor and outdoor living spaces even features a games room. Located in a peaceful neighbourhood with easy access to local eateries and shops.

a large patio with garden view. Also conveniently located near international

14,000,000 THB

restaurants and a 5 minute drive to Laem Singh and Surin Beach.

5 BEDROOM POOL VILLA WITH VAST MOUNTAIN VIEW, Rawai

Situated in a quiet 32 apartment complex. Large terrace with a spectacular sea

A 3 - story villa with spectacular panoramic view that will give you 800 sqm of

view with surrounding islands as a calming backdrop. Well-managed estate.

SPACIOUS PANORAMIC SEA VIEW CONDOMINIUM, Kalim 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 129 sqm

10,000,000 THB

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 167 sqm

A luxury beach front estate set around a 20 meter private swimming pool and

IMPRESSIVE SEA VIEW APARTMENT, Ao Po 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 110 sqm

7,500,000 THB

LUXURY 3 BEDROOM VILLA WITH DIRECT BEACH ACCESS Bang Tao

A stunning and modern 2 bedroom condo overlooking Kalim

5 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 800 sqm generous space amongst lush vegetation.

15,499,000 THB

FREEHOLD 3-BED DUPLEX, Bang Tao 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 232.8 sqm

Unique opportunity to own a townhouse style condominium under a

Bay with easy commute to Patong and Kamala. Great onsite facilities,

freehold title. Great location by between main shopping amenities and

including a restaurant and shuttle bus services.

Bang Tao Beach with the new Catch Beach Club a few minutes away.

9,800,000 THB

ed uc e ed ic R Pr

WELL MAINTAINED POOL VILLA , Nai Harn 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 210 sqm

7,400,000 THB

Well-appointed villa in a gated community. Ideal location near shops and restaurants and a 5 minute drive from Nai Harn Beach. Good potential for a high rental return.

LAKEFRONT VILLA IN GREAT CONDITION, Laguna 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 490 sqm

Situated on a lakefront corner plot of 1200 sqm, this classic Laguna has recently undergone full cosmetic repair. Terrific location near Boat Avenue

35,000,000 THB

and the Bang Tao Bay. Must-See property!

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

PROPERTY 35

Call us today to schedule a viewing or visit Thailand’s leading online marketplace to seach 1,000s of properties in Phuket and all other major locations across Thailand - go to FazWaz.com

FREEHOLD CONDO 800M FROM KAMALA BEACH, Kamala

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 99.9 sqm

4,900,000 THB

Refurbished 2-bedroom apartment in walking distance to the beach. Corner unit maximizing privacy. Good common area facilities with 2 common pools and 2 fitness rooms.

LEASEHOLD LAKE VIEW CONDO, LAYAN 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 117 sqm

6,500,000 THB

This leasehold 2-bedroom offers a spacious terrace, open and bright. The colonial style development is very well maintained with lots of greenery, swimming pool, kid’s pool and outdoor seating areas. Must-see development.

AFFORDABLE POOL VILLA, Kamala 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 170 sqm

This property is exceptionally well priced, located in a desirable location with easy access to shops, restaurants and other amenities,

4,995,000 THB

quietly situated in a gated community,

WELL PRICED MOUNTAIN VIEW APARTMENT, Kamala 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 210 sqm

With stylish interior and large outdoor space, this leasehold condo is nestled on a hill surrounded by greenery. Less than 5 minutes to the shops and restaurants of Kamala and 15 minutes to Patong.

7,000,000 THB

ue al n t V uri es S B in

FREEHOLD CONDO, Surin Studio, 1 bathroom, 27 sqm

2,700,000 THB

Priced nearly 35% lower than other units, a motivated seller has 4 units on offer in this newly completed development. Beautiful communal rooftop with gym and views over Bang Tao.

2 BEDROOM CONDO 500 METERS FROM THE BEACH, Karon 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 112 sqm

Situated hillside in Karon with beautiful sunset views across the beach. Good common area facilities. Serviced apartments in well managed estate

12,500,000 THB

ed uc e ed ic R Pr

LAND PLOT WITH SEA VIEW

Nor Sor 3 Gor Title, 767 Sqm

5,900,000 THB

@thephuketnews

A prime piece of land situated on the hillside overlooking Kamala bay. Reasonably flat land with sealed driveway access and power onsite.

FREEHOLD STUDIO WITH SEA VIEW, Patong Studio, 1 bathroom, 38.4 sqm

Located in Patong with it’s a wide array of local and international eateries. Stunning view over the city and ocean. Excellent common areas facilities.

3,900,000 THB

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Staying in the fit zone

Surf training is essential, especially without the waves SURFING

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Run #1620: Saturday February 18 Run Start Time: 4pm Hares: Any Time (VH), Long Time (VH) Location: Patong Viewpoint Directions: At the south end of Nanai Rd by the bridge turn up the hill at HHH sign and go up Hasip Pee Rd for approximately 300 metres and then turn right up the small concrete road with the HHH sign. Continue to drive up to the Viewpoint. Park to one side of the road. HHH Truck will be marked. Bus pick-up: Patong @ Expat Hotel: 3pm Kamala @ Black Cat’s Bar: 3:30pm More info: phuket-hhh.com

just got back from Bali with a bunch of very cool surfers, and I can tell you, being surf-fit was a blessing. Due to living and working in Phuket, months have passed without a surf. Thanks to my commitment to surfing training and fitness, I had so much fun in the water catching and sharing loads of waves. I am the first to admit that surfing is the best form of surfing training, however, due to living in Phuket, like many surfers worldwide, I am left for long periods of time with either fickle waves or long seasonal flat spells. My career also has me working in-land for lengthy periods of time, so using surfing training to remain in the zone is a vital part of my lifestyle. I want to be confident my body is surf-strong and supple and my surfing fitness is up to par when I

Hayden carves a curl in his recent trip to Bali. Photo: baliwaves.com paddle out. Quality surfing workouts play a big part of that game. For all my surfing friends who live by the beach – no real dramas – you have access to waves and can go whenever the surf is up. However, for many surfers that option does not exist. Try not surfing or not doing any surf specific training for six months and then paddling out in a decent swell – your heart, arms and

shoulders feel like rocks and your mind starts playing tricks on you. I think you will agree that staying surf-fit is one of the best investments you can do, especially prior to going on a surf trip, and I encourage you to maintain your surfing fitness and flexibility. I am a big believer in body weight surf training being fundamental to ones surfing fitness. I also believe using

your body weight is one of the best ways to live in a healthy athletic body, so during nonsurf periods I maintain my surfing flexibility with daily yoga classes. Luckily, where I chose to stay in Bali, Komune Resort & Beach Club at Jalan Pantai Keramas, had morning and afternoon classes so getting in a morning surf and finishing with a good stretch-out or taking the afternoon class to loosen up and paddle out on sunset were excellent options for any level of surfer or fitness enthusiast. The set up overlooked Keramas reef – with fun punchy waves at three to five feet with some serious power when bigger swells arrived. The surrounding atmosphere was quiet, natural and appeasing to those who appreciate Eco-tourism and healthy living. As a bonus the staff were friendly and offered high tide night surfing for experienced surfers. Highly recommended. There was also an exceptional Balinese restaurant just down the road if you which was great as I like authentic

Balinese food at local prices and wanted to stroll among the surrounding rice paddies. If that is not for you, simply surf your brains out. As for me, I am back in the land of, ‘no waves’ for a while, so will be dreaming about Bali waves while staying surf strong. Hayden Rhodes (aka ‘D Man’) is the creator of Surf Training Secrets and is known for his enthusiasm and lifelong love of health, fitness, adventure and surfing. He has been helping people improve their human performance while surfing and snowboarding around the world for more then 20 years. Hayden believes everyone has the ability to improve their lives and promotes health as much as he promotes fitness. He continues to study, surf and snowboard around the world and looks forward to helping you and your surfing body. For more information visit http://www.surftrainingsecrets.com/

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

ICC take on Team ACG

SPORT 37

Second newcomers leave their mark in T20 league CRICKET

Classic Ali Khan; a six in the making for Team ACG. Photo: Michael Way

David Thomas

ast Sunday (Feb 12) saw the second round of the C&C Marine 2017 T20 tournament at the Alan Cooke Ground (ACG) with Island Cricket Club (ICC) taking on the second newly formed side of the T20 season, “Team ACG”. With the recent evening rains, the ACG was looking lush and green when both sides arrived at the ground. When ICC skipper Paresh Borkar won the toss, he decided to bowl first and take advantage of a possible slower outfield in the morning. R Sadarangani and R Jayasuriya opened the innings for Team ACG, and both batsmen were keen to start scoring quickly and took the score past 50 in the 7th over. However, Jayasuriya (17) was brilliantly caught by ICC skipper Borkar on the boundary ending the 54-run opening partnership. M Bilal was the next batsman in, but Sadarangani’s (26) attacking innings came

to an end after being run out by A Kalakar in the 8th over. This brought A Mushtaq to the crease just before the drinks break, and the break proved fatal for Bilal (11) who was dismissed soon after resumption of play, clean bowled by R Naik. Big hitting A Khan was the next batsman in and his reputation preceded him, with the ICC skipper deploying fielders all around the boundary edge. Khan did not disappoint and proceeded to launch into the ICC bowlers, eventually being dismissed in the 14th over for 34 runs off just 16 deliveries which included four 6s and one 4.

Khan’s innings seemed to inspire the next batsman P Jha who only had one thing on his mind and that was boundaries, lots of them! Off just 20 deliveries, Jha scored 52 runs which included five 6s and two 4s in a devastating display of batting. A Mustaq (42) continued accumulating runs at the other end, but was unable to reach his half century being bowled by Borkar in the 19th over. Next batsman S Reading was sent straight back to the pavilion being bowled first ball by Borkar. I Malik then came to the crease with one delivery left to face and with Borkar on his hat-trick. Malik

(0) survived and the ICC innings came to an end with the score on 213 for six wickets. With a formidable target ahead of them, ICC’s run chase didn’t start well, opener S Ullah was adjudged LBW first ball to G Lane. D Mydeen was the next batsman in and joined remaining opener R Naik. Together they steadied the ICC innings after the early loss of Ullah. The pair posted a 51-run partnership when Mydeen was dismissed caught and bowled by Mushtaq in the fifth over. S Kandolkar (1) then came to the crease but was sent back after just two deliveries, adjudged LBW off the bowling of Malik in the sixth over. With the score on 57 runs for three, ICC were looking to get to the break without the loss of more wickets. However, ACG sensed one more wicket would seal the game for them and introduced R Sadarangani to bowl his unorthodox spin. T h e c h a n g e wo r k e d straight away as S Kumar (4) was deceived by a wellflighted googly and hit his own wicket trying to defend his stumps. This was the wicket

Cool Hand Lukes end 1Bar’s unbeaten run POOL AT LONG LAST 1BAR’S unbeaten run in the Patong Pool League has come to an end courtesy of Cool Hand Lukes. Going into last Thursday’s (Feb 9) action 1Bar had been unbeaten throughout the entire league season, however, it was Cool Hand Lukes who put a stop to the run, beating the league leaders 5-6 away from home. In addition, 2nd placed

@thephuketnews

Ting Tong Bar, who prior to last week’s games were some 13 points behind 1Bar, won big, beating Happy End Bar 11-0. This result means Ting Tong Bar are now only seven points behind still with plenty of games to play. The loss also means that Happy End Bar are now propping up the bottom of the table on 32 points. The only other big score in last weeks action was in the game between Martin Swiss Guesthouse and Caddyshack. Going into the game Martin

Swiss sat 9th in the league table on 44 points while Caddyshack were one place above in 8th on 45 points. However, a big 9-2 win at home for Martin Swiss saw them jump up to joint 5th now on level points with Queen of Hearts and Genius Bar (53), while Caddyshack dropped down to 9th on 47 points. It was all tight in last Thursday’s remaining games with Champs Bar taking a 6-5 home win over Queen of Hearts, San Sabai Sports Bar walked away with a 6-5 win at home

Dave from Caddyshack takes aim.

to Green Mango, Dirty Nellies were beaten 5-6 at home to Genius Bar, while Wet Dreams

ACG wanted and ICC went to the break four wickets down. A big effort was required in the second half if ICC were to reach the required total. B Desai and R Naik resumed the ICC innings, however, neither batsman could force the run rate as opener Naik was dismissed soon after reaching his half century in the 13th over, caught by Jayasuriya off the bowling of Mushtaq. Naik’s 50 came off 46 deliveries in a patient display. Unfortunately, he was not supported by his fellow batsman and ICC had left the run chase too late. Desai (25) was caught by Mushtaq off the bowling of Jayasuriya. A Kalakar (17) and A Virdikar (14) were the last two batsman dismissed with V Tiwari and P Vishwanathan left not out. The new side “Team ACG” had beaten the established ICC by 66 runs in a very entertaining and high-scoring match, with some excellent individual batting performances. Both of the season’s new teams have now won their first games which leaves the T20 competition nicely poised going into the third round.

League Standings 1Bar

Ting Tong

Cool Hand Lukes

Wet Dreams

Queen of Hearts

Martin Swiss

Genius Bar

Dirty Nellies

Caddyshack

San Sabai

Champs Bar

Green Mango

Simon & Oils Happy End Bar

35 32

Sports Bar took a 7-4 win at home to Simon and Oils. Matt Pond

Birdy with his PTT Junior Championship trophy.

Birdy walks away as PTT Jnr Champ TENNIS

FROM FEBRUA RY 4-7, two BISP tennis players, 10-year-old Anzac and 7-yearold Birdy, competed in the PTT Junior Championships 1/17 at the Sport and Spa Tennis Club, Bangkok. Birdy was competing in the 8 and under event and did extremely well to come away as champion, beating Thailand’s No.1 ranked player 4-1, 4-0 this now being the second time running he has beaten this opponent. This is a big achievement for Birdy as this was only his second full ball competition. To come through as winner and again beating Thailand’s top ranked players shows how far he has come. Although playing full ball is not ideal at this age, Birdy is showing that he can still compete with the best technique due to his efficient footwork, this is being carefully monitored to ensure he has the best possible future in tennis. For now he will go back to green or even orange ball training to continue his development. His next big competition will be in April for the Thailand Nationals. Meanwhile, Anzac, who was competing in the U12 event, done well to reach the quarter-finals before narrowly losing 4-1, 5-3 in a very close match with many deuce points. Well done to Anzac who still has two years left to play in this age group.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Is this ‘Cool Runnings’ too? Tropical Indonesia skate into major int’l ice hockey tourney ICE HOCKEY AFP

hey c ome f rom a tropical country better known for palmfringed beaches and big-wave surfing than winter sports. But Indonesia’s plucky ice hockey team hopes to defy the odds when they skate into a major international tournament for the first time at the Asian Winter Games in Sapporo next week. The players are part of the first contingent of Indonesian athletes ever to participate in the games, with the Southeast Asian nation also sending figure skaters and short-track speed skaters to compete in Japan. For the part-timers in Indonesia’s ice hockey team – whose story has echoes of the Jamaican bobsleighers of the 1988 Winter Olympics, whose story was turned into the hit comedy movie “Cool Runnings” – it will be their toughest challenge yet. “This is the first time ever

Members of the Indonesian ice hockey team listen to Malaysian coach Gary Tan (centre in white) ahead of the upcoming Asian Winter Games. Photo: AFP they’ve played in a real, international competition,” said coach Gary Tan, after a vigorous training session at one of the country’s three rinks, on the outskirts of Jakarta. “It’s going to be a very tough task – but it’s not going to be impossible.” Tan, a Malaysian who has been drafted to get the team into shape before the tourna-

ment, shouted orders at the players dressed in red and yellow outfits as they skated at high speed, practising tackles and trying to smash the puck into the net. They huddled on the ice at the end of the session, as Tan gave them pointers. The rough and tumble of ice hockey is a change for many of the players who are

not paid to be on the national team and must earn their living in day jobs ranging from office workers to start-up entrepreneurs. Indonesia are sending a 23-man squad – 20 players and three goalkeepers – to the Games, many of whom have played in club tournaments abroad. But they will face more

experienced opponents in their group at the Games, which will welcome some 2,300 athletes and supporters from more than 30 countries between February 19-26, including Iran, Malaysia and Macau. “Obviously we are the underdogs,” conceded team member Felix Utama, a 26-year-old whose day job is in the IT industry. Even getting an ice hockey team together to practice regularly is a challenge in Jakarta, a chaotic, sprawling metropolis whose sprawl takes in some 28 million people. The players need to travel up to two hours through the city’s notorious gridlock to get to the rink in South Tangerang, a commuter city outside the capital. Most only make it to half of the practice sessions. Ice hockey is an unlikely sport for anyone to play in the sprawling archipelago, which lies in the tropics and where the mercury rarely drops below 25º Celsius. Tan said a major challenge for promoting ice hockey in Indonesia was that the sport

was not ingrained in the national culture like it is in colder countries. “The biggest thing is the mindset, the culture,” he said. “If you are brought up in a hockey culture, a winter country, then it is completely different because everybody eats and sleeps ice hockey.” Nevertheless, the fastpaced sport has won a small but dedicated following as a more exciting alternative to disciplines where the country has traditionally done well internationally, such as badminton and weightlifting. Tan hopes the upcoming tournament can prepare the players for a more modest goal: the smaller Southeast Asian Games in Malaysia in August. But the Indonesian government is more ambitious, and envisages one day sending an ice hockey team to the Olympics. “If they perform very well, probably we would like to take part in the next Winter Olympic Games,” said sports ministry spokesman Gatot Dewa Broto.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

SPORT 39

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Five things we learned in the Premier League I FOOTBALL

AFP

n last weekend’s Premier League action, week 25 of the season, leaders Chelsea were held up by Burnley, Arsenal and Liverpool got back on track and Leicester

Cup commitments untimely for Man United It has been a source of great mirth for the fans of Manchester United’s rivals that despite a run of 16 games without defeat, Jose Mourinho’s side have been in sixth place since the first weekend in November. But while the gap between United and the Champions League places stretched to nine points in early December, their current run has seen them move to within a point of the top four and two points of second-place Tottenham Hotspur. It will be a source of frustration, then, for Mourinho, whose

Mourinho’s side will not have another league game until March. Photo: AFP side comfortably beat Watford 2-0 last Saturday, that FA Cup and League Cup commitments mean his team do not have another league game until March 4.

Home is where the heart is for Burnley Only one of Burnley’s 30 points this season has been picked up away from home, but when their home form is as impressive as it is, that may not matter. Their 1-1 draw with leaders Chelsea means the Lancashire club have gone six top-f light games unbeaten at home for the first time since September 1975, and it was no backs-to-the-wall effort. Pedro put Chelsea ahead in the seventh minute, but Burnley more than held their own after home debutante Robbie Brady had equalised with a fine 24th-minute freekick and prevented Antonio Conte’s league leaders from

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Fortune favours under-fire Wenger Faced with mounting criticism from Arsenal fans amid talk he was planning his exit strategy, Arsene Wenger was a manager under siege ahead of Saturday’s clash with Hull City. Fortunately for Wenger, Alexis Sanchez was able to ease the pressure with a helping hand that put Arsenal on course for a 2-0 victory. Sanchez’s 34th-minute opener was allowed to stand despite the ball ricocheting into the net off his hand and he added a second goal with a stoppage-time penalty after Sam Clucas had been dismissed for a handball the officials did spot. Wenger was quick to dismiss Arsenal great Ian Wright’s claim that

Burnley’s Robbie Brady (left) celebrates scoring their goal against Chelsea. Photo: AFP registering a single shot on target in the second half. It was only the third time Chelsea had dropped points in 19 games and their lead was trimmed to eight points when Manchester City won at Bournemouth on Monday (Feb 13).

Leicester’s Claudio Ranieri watches from the touchline during their game against Swansea City. Photo: AFP

Left for dead in the title race after failing to win any of their previous five league games, Liverpool got back on track against Tottenham thanks to a Sadio Mane masterclass. Following the Senegal winger’s departure for the Africa Cup of Nations, Liverpool went into free-fall, losing touch with leaders Chelsea and crashing out of both domestic cups. Mane looked a little off the pace when he returned in Liverpool’s embarrassing 2-0 loss at Hull, but he was back to his dynamic best with a quick-fire first-half double that gave his side a 2-0 win. Catching Chelsea still looks a pipedream, but manager Jurgen Klopp has

The overall competition winner receives a two day/one night private fishing charter to Racha Island on board Wahoo Yacht Charters Phuket’s Reel Blue. Total prize value: B180,000 The monthly competition winner for February 2017 will receive a B3,000 voucher to spend at Walkabout Sports Bar in Karon.

EPL PREDICTIONS MONTHLY STANDINGS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

OVERALL STANDINGS

Aays 14 Ajax Amsterdam 13 Allard 13 LateStart 13 Nong Young 13

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

The Red Card Gang 143 scottkip 142 Sidwell Guduka 142 carst 141 adamrosindale 139

English Premier League 2016 - 2017

Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez scored a brace against Hull City. Photo: AFP he is ready to end his 21-year reign at the end of the season, and with luck like this, who can blame him for wanting to stick around?

Mane makes Liverpool’s world go round

Leicester are making the wrong kind of history Nine months on from their astonishing 5,000-1 title triumph, Leicester City continue to make history, but now it is for all the wrong reasons. Their 2-0 defeat at Swansea City made them the first English champions to lose five successive games since Chelsea in 1956. A point and a place above the relegation zone, they are in increasing peril of becoming the first defending champions to go down since Manchester City in 1938.

City’s title defence took another turn towards disaster. Here are five things we learned in the Premier League last weekend:

MONTHLY SPONSOR

MAIN SPONSOR

Team

MP W

Pts

Chelsea

Manchester City

Tottenham Hotspur

Arsenal

Liverpool

Manchester United

Everton

West Brom

Stoke City

-6

West Ham United

-9

Southampton

-3

Burnley

-9

Watford

-13

Bournemouth

-14

Swansea City

-23

Middlesbrough

-8

Leicester City

-19

Hull City

-27

Crystal Palace

-14

Sunderland

-22

Live Sports TV Schedule *Times may be subject to change

SPORT

START STOP

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

T20-1 MCG

Australia v. Sri Lanka

Friday February 17 Cricket

15:30

19:30

Saturday February 18

Liverpool beat Spurs thanks to a Sadio Mane masterclass. Photo: AFP challenged his team to win all their remaining league fixtures and this swaggering performance suggested a strong finish is not out of the question.

Rugby Union 22:00

23:45

Guinness Pro 12

Ulster v. Glasgow

23:55

01:45

Guinness Pro 12

Ospreys v. Munster

Rugby Union 22:00

23:45

Aviva Premiership

Bath v. Harlequins

Soccer

19:30

21:30

FA Cup – 5th Round

Burnley v. Lincoln

Soccer

21:55

23:50

FA Cup – 5th Round

Huddersfield v. Man City

22:00

23:55

FA Cup – 5th Round

Millwall v. Leicester

00:30

02:30

FA Cup – 5th Round

Wolves v. Chelsea

T20-2 Geelong

Australia v. Sri Lanka

Sunday February 19 Cricket

15:30

19:30

Rugby Union

21:55

23:45

Aviva Premiership

Sale v. Wasps

Soccer

21:00

23:00

FA Cup – 5th Round

Fulham v. Tottenham

Sport NOT A DONE DEAL FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

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Surf training’s a must when you’re waveless > page 36

Mayweather finally quashes rumours of any McGregor fight BOXING AFP

loyd Mayweather has shot down rumours of a deal to fight martial arts star Conor McGregor, insisting he is content to remain retired. The 39-year old American took to his Instagram account late Tuesday (Feb 14), telling his fans that he wanted to set the record straight. “There seems to be several rumours floating around media recently, however, let the record show, there hasn’t been any deals made in regards to a fight between myself and any other fighters. I am happily retired and enjoying life at this time. If any changes are to come, be sure that I will be the first to let the world to know.” Mayweather’s statement

Mayweather and McGregor have both been offered US$25 million to fight. Photos: AFP may be sincere or it may not be. He has been know in the past to often stretch the truth

announcing several times that the fight of the moment would be his last only to use that ploy

as a bargaining tool to try and sell more tickets. The possibility of a fight

between boxer Mayweather and McGregor appeared to get a boost as Ultimate Fight-

ing Championship boss Dana White said he’d pay US$25 million (B875mn) to each. White, president of the popular UFC mixed martial arts brand in which Ireland’s McGregor stars, seemed to indicate in his comments on a Fox radio broadcast that the two would meet in a boxing ring, not the UFC octagon. Mayweather, who retired in 2015 with a perfect 49-0 record, is considered one of the greatest fighters of all-time. McGregor has never fought a professional boxing match. McGregor became the first man to simultaneously hold UFC titles in two weight divisions when he beat Eddie Alvarez in New York on November 12. At the end of November he was issued a California boxing licence in a development that fuelled speculation about a showdown between the two.

PHUKET FC 2017 PLAYER LINEUP

Thailand

Pisake Sunthornwat

Thailand

Nared Garpgraigaew

Thailand

Thawatchai Supphanam

Thailand

Ratchanon Intharawisoot

Thailand

Somsak Chomlakhet

Thailand

Janawat Areewannasuk

Thailand

Piyawat Pieamjaroen

Thailand

Theerawat Rattanasit

Thailand

Porbracha Rodnakared

Thailand

Nattapoom Maya

Thailand

Kritsanapong Bureephakdee

Thailand

Taewarit Junsom

Thailand

Eakkaphan Sornsit

Thailand

Isarapong Aungsirikun

Cameroon

Yannick Pairice Touguessong

Thailand

Sutthiphong Yaifai

Thailand

Phuwaphat Natethip

Thailand

Samaae Sama

Thailand

Aphichart Denmhan

Thailand

Jakgree Longlok

Thailand

Taewanuwat Bamrungthin

11 Elvis Job

Cameroon

Thailand

Wutthichai Suksane

Ivory Coast

Hamed De Silci Diarrassouba

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