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SWEDISH KILLER JAILED FOR LIFE
NEWS
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Hungarian man found roaming the streets
LIFE
LIFE PAGE 4
A woman’s devotion to local dogs
SPORT Johan Sebastian Ljung, pictured just after his arrest in 2011.
J
ohan Sebastian Ljung from Sweden was sentenced last Friday (January 24) to life imprisonment for the 2011 murder in Phuket of Russian-born Swede Maxim Schantz. He has 30 days to appeal the judgement. He was also ordered to pay B12.5 million in compensation to Mr
Schantz’s family. Ljung and fellow Swede Tommy Viktor Söderlund, both aged 26 when the murder took place in The Lantern housing estate in Koh Kaew in August 2011, faced charges of conspiracy to murder; possession of a handgun and seven bullets with no permit; possession of a handgun
in a public area; threatening use of a knife in a public area; and theft of a motorcycle. The duo had denied all charges except for the threatening use of a knife in public. The men earlier confessed to having a part in the death of Mr Schantz, 25, saying the confrontation was the
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result of a business partnership turned sour, though they claimed they did not intend to kill Mr Schantz. The men were arrested at the Surin Sweet Hotel in Surin in 2011, where they had apparently gone into hiding after fatally stabbing Mr Schantz at his home inside The Lantern housing development.
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Stuntman plans to jump helicopter
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General election: Will it happen? Or will it be cancelled? > page 4
The week of big statues
his week saw 10 significant pieces of statuary arrive in Phuket. First was an enormous hand for what will be the biggest statue in Thailand of Kwan Im, the Goddess of Mercy, which will eventually be erected in Ratchaburi. People flocked to the Dragon Park to paste gold leaf to it Then, on Wednesday, the long awaited nine statues of the Heroines and their closest aide were exhibited at Saphan Hin. After a ceremony on Wednesday evening, they were moved the following day to Baan Riang, where they are to be the centrepiece of the Thalang Historical Park.
T
The court’s decision on Tommy Soderlund is expected on March 3.
Swede sentenced to life for 2011 murder Continued from page 1. The three men had previously been part of a call centre scam operation in Pattaya. In Febr uary 2011, Mr Schantz apparently fell out with the group and left, taking with him a list of all their “customers” and delivering it to Pattaya police. That led to the arrest of Söderlund, who was later released on bail. After a search of Facebook, Söderlund and Ljung found that Mr Schantz had moved to Phuket, and decided to pay him a visit. It took them three weeks to track him down, but they eventually found him living in The Lantern in Koh Kaew, and moved into an apartment opposite. When Mr Schantz returned
home late on August 1, 2011, the two men confronted him and tried to force him into their house. Mr Schantz resisted, and in the ensuing struggle Mr Schantz was fatally stabbed in the jugular vein with a knife Ljung was holding to his throat. “It was an accident,” Söderlund told police at the time. The two then fled the scene, commandeering a motorbike to make their escape. They initially checked into the Andaman Place Hotel in Thalang District, before moving to Surin Sweet Hotel, where they were arrested. A bloodstained T-shirt belonging to Ljung was found in their room. Söderlund is being tried separately. That trial will conclude on March 3.
Yi-Fan Chu
Above, a woman pastes gold leaf to one of the fingers of the enormous Kwan Im hand. Below, Gov Maitri Inthusut places a garland on the hand of the new statue of Thao Thepkrassattree.
Angsana expert takes on Iron Chef A N G S A N A L AG U N A Phuket’s Executive Sous-Chef Yi-Fan Chu will show off his culinary talents on Iron Chef Thailand, which will air next Wednesday (February 5) on Channel 7. And no, we can’t tell you whether he won. Chef Chu, born in Taiwan but brought up in the US, says that it was an experience that he will cherish for life. “Competing on Iron Chef has been my dream ever since I started culinary school. To challenge a chef as skilled and experienced as Chef Gai is an amazing learning opportunity.”
Ordeal over: The exhausted couple make it out of the forest.
Tourists rescued P OL IC E SPE N T F I V E hours on Wednesday night (January 29) rescuing a German couple who phoned at about 7pm to say that they were lost in forest near Tonsai Waterfall. Jorger Strempel, 52, called the Tourist Police hotline on 1155 to report that he and his partner, 50-year-old Kathrin Ludecke, were lost and that it was getting dark. He added that his partner had hurt her leg and could
not walk. He reported that they were at a bamboo grove near what he described as “Point 11”. Just after midnight the couple were located and led out of the woods. Ms Ludecke was taken to Phuket International Hospital for her leg to be treated. Though worn out by their ordeal, both were full of praise and gratitude for their rescuers. Eakkapop Thongtub thephuketnews
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
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Troubled Hungarian roams streets H U NGA R I A N FA R K AS GY U LA – who was found wandering in Kamala on January 11, apparently at a complete loss, and was “rescued” by Tourist Police – has now turned up barefoot on a street in Phuket Town. When he was found in Kamala, it was believed that Mr Gyula might be suffering from Alzheimer’s. So he was put into the Sunprime Kamala Beach hotel and his family were eventually contacted and arranged a flight for him to return to Switzerland, where they live, next Tuesday (February 4). But Mr Gyula did not stay put. This morning Jintana Choobua, receptionist at the Sunprime, said he paid his bill and checked out on January 15.
On Monday night The Phuket News came across Mr Gyula, sitting on the pavement outside Vachira Phuket Hospital. Failing to get cogent answers from him, and noting that he could not walk because of damage to his feet and badly swollen ankles, the Phuket News called the tourist police. Pol Sen Sgt Maj Wichit Pongsapung said, “He does seem to be distracted. Anyway, he will be sent back home on February 4. We [Tourist Police] have already contacted the Hungarian consulate in order to assist him, and to inform his family. “He likes to get food at Vachira Hospital,” he added. Wiwat Kanjanapanit, a security guard at
the hospital, told The Phuket News, “I have encountered him on many occasions in the past 10 days or so. He is not a patient here. “I heard the motorcycle taxi drivers saying that he walks back and forth between the Tourist Police station and Vachira Hospital. “Each morning, they say, he walks to the hospital, and then each evening he walks back to the police station and spends the night there. That’s all I know.” Pol Maj Urumporn Koondejsumrit, Tourist Police inspector, told The Phuket News, “The consulate has informed us that they have the ticket for him to go back home on February 4.” Prapaporn Jitmaneeyaphan
Tourist Police officers give Mr Gyula a ride back to their station on Monday night.
Bus plan may be scrapped Wiparatana NaThalang reporter1@classactmedia.co.th
I
t looks as though the proposed solution to bus crashes on Patong Hill – to bar buses going east-west over the hill and make them go instead via Cherng Talay, Kamala and Kalim – may be scrapped. Vice-Governor Jamroen Thippayapongtada explained on Wednesday (January 29), “We have realized that the alternative bus route passing through the Kamala Hills is too dangerous, so we are trying to find another solution.” He said that one possibility was suggested after talking with a traffic police officer. “He showed me the danger points [on the road] where all the buses have to use their brakes. “We think that reducing the need to use brakes could be our solution to solve the problem of accidents on the way down the hill.” He explained that the need to brake is often caused by bottlenecks where two lanes merge into one. “So we are going to widen the road downhill into Patong to make two lanes all the way, so that drivers do not have to use the brakes too often.” In addition, motorbikes get
V/Gov Jamroen: The alternative route is too dangerous. mixed up in the traffic because the bike lane on the downward slope is right next to a deep drain, which riders don’t like to get too close to. Installing a cover over the drain – at an estimated cost of B100 million – would reduce the fear factor and help persuade motorbikes to get back in their lane. “We are also going to adjust the traffic lights so that drivers do not have to stop their buses at intersections. “We have already autho-
rized the Highways Department to start work on this project but we have to wait another month for the budget and with the [anti-government] rally it’s hard to get things done. “For now, we have set a temporary rule that buses may not go over the hill in either direction between peak traffic hours, from 6 to 9 am and 4 to 7 pm.” Fixing the road may take some time, he said. “In order to expand the road and change the traffic systems, we need to do it at night and even then it’s not easy because there is traffic around the clock. “There is another potentially serious problem I have heard about: the local people who live near the accident site in front of Wat Suwankiriwong are angry and have said they will block the road if there are any more accidents in the area.” One tour company is already using the alternative route to Patong exclusively – Natalie Tour, one of whose buses crashed on December 9, killing two people and sparking the current search for solutions. Natalie has no buses itself but rents buses with drivers to carry its customers. After the crash Natalie decreed that the buses it hires
would no longer travel east-west across the hill. The bus owners agreed. Indeed, they benefit; the new route is 10 km shorter, which reduces fuel costs. But what do the bus drivers think of the new route via Cherng Talay, Kamala and Kalim? One of them, Sumred Nubthong, 55, from Krabi, told The Phuket News he likes the new route. He has plenty of experience with heavy vehicles – he started driving trucks when he was 17 years old.
He told The Phuket News, “I prefer the road through Kamala and Kalim to [going over] Patong Hill. I have always hated being in the traffic on Patong Hill, especially the bit going down past Wat Suwankiriwong; even if I was already using low gear I still had to brake a lot, and this caused the air brakes to be overused, risking brake failure and an accident. “A one-way system that stops buses coming down the hill from Kathu will help the traffic flow better.
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“Driving on the KamalaKalim route is more comfortable than on the Kathu-Patong road because I can control and steer the bus to the side of the road if there is a problem. On Patong Hill that’s impossible because it is so congested.” He added that even in wet stormy weather, he has no problem driving the new route. The question remains whether he would still like the new route if it is jammed with dozens of tour buses banished from Patong Hill.
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Election still up in the air A
s The Phuket News went to press this week it was still not clear whether the general election planned for Sunday (February 2) will take place, along with the compulsory 24-hour ban on alcohol sales. But it seems likely that in Phuket – as was the case last Sunday – the election will be called off as soon as anti-government protesters arrive to block the polling booths. One of Phuket’s anti-government protest leaders, Amnuay Kumban, said there are as yet no firm plans for Sunday. “We are waiting for [PDRC leader] Suthep Thaugsuban to give us directions about what to do. We are not going to do anything without direction from the centre.” But, he added, “We continue to protest peacefully, nonviolently, and non-aggressively, and we are not going to destroy life or property.” In Bangkok, Election Commission (EC) Chairman Supachai Somcharoen was quoted by Khao Sod Daily on Tuesday (January 28) as saying that officials had been instructed to abandon polling at the first sign of trouble. “We have instructed all officials to avoid confrontation,” Mr Supachai said. “If they cannot proceed, they can abandon the voting.” In talks this week the EC again attempted to persuade the government of caretaker PM Yingluck Shinawatra to postpone the election. Once again it failed. The government’s argument is that delaying the vote may result in its supporters in the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship
One of Phuket’s anti-government protest leaders, Amnuay Kumban, said there are as yet no firm plans for Sunday. (UDD – also known as the Red Shirts) confronting the protesters en masse in Bangkok, with a possible steep escalation of violence in the capital. Deputy PM Phongthep Thepkanjana said on Tuesday (January 28) that a postponement cannot guarantee the problems will end. “The government understands the EC’s concerns but we think the longer [the election is delayed] the worse the problems will become.” UDD members are growing increasingly angry at what they see as the attempts by the protesters in the People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) to get Ms Yingluck and her family and supporters out of politics. The PDRC’s agenda – to “reboot” politics by having an unelected government clean up corruption in politics – is seen by UDD members as an élitist ploy to rob them of their votes.
The Pheu Thai Party leaders of the government know that if a legitimate election can be held, they will most likely win. But it seems unlikely that a legitimate election is possible at the moment. And in any case, even if it were possible, this would not satisfy the PDRC, who will still want to wipe the slate clean, and who plan to do their damnedest to disrupt the elections. In the south and Bangkok especially, they are likely to succeed, as they did last Sunday with pre-election voting. In Phuket that was cancelled just hours after polling booths opened. Caught between the two sides are the Election Commission – the officials who must organise any vote. They have been trying to persuade the government that the situation is too unstable to hold an election.
The Bangkok Post quoted EC member Somchai Srisuthiyakorn as saying on Tuesday that, at the talks with the government, the EC laid out a number of obstacles and difficulties and warned it might take as long as six months to form a new government. But the government sees things differently. “The government says voting should [continue to be] be organised until we have all the MPs. So this means we can’t agree on the postponement,” he said. According to Mr Somchai, 28 constituencies around the country are without any candidates. He said he was also concerned that next Sunday’s election, if it takes place, will be a huge waste of money, with as much as B1 billion going down the drain with no result. “Even if it’s clear that the election will take place on February 2, it will not be possible to convene Parliament because the law requires that 95 per cent of seats be filled [by elected candidates] before the House can be convened.” The election in each constituency is organised and overseen by an election commissioner. Already, one of these in Bangkok has resigned rather than go through with the election, and Khao Sod reported that 49 others in Bangkok alone are considering resignation. More commissioners, especially in Phuket and the rest of the South, are surely also considering whether they, too, should quit, thereby scuttling the poll. Additional reporting by Khemin Wicheetthagorn and Wiparatana NaThalang
2,500 attend grenade victim’s funeral A CROWD OF ABOUT 2,500 people joined the cremation ceremony of Prakong Choojan who died from injuries sustained in a grenade attack on People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) in Bangkok. The mourners, including a mix senior government officials and local residents, visited the Wat Ket Ho (Anuphat Krisadaram Temple), shortly after 12:30pm on Saturday (January 25). Anchalee Vanich Thepabutra, Democrat Party List MP, led the cremation ceremony. Also in attendance were Governor Maitri Inthusut, Vice Governor Dr Sommai Preechasilpa, Phuket MP Rewat Areerob, and Amnuay Khumban, a
Left, Anchalee Vanich Thepabutra, Democrat Party List MP. Right, crowds gather for the cremation ceremony. leader of the PDRC in Phuket. Last Friday (January 17) Mr Choojan joined a march headed by protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban in Bangkok. As the marchers passed an
abandoned building on Bunthat Tong Rd a grenade was tossed from the second floor of an empty building next to the road. A total of 37 people, including Mr Prakong, were
injured. Shrapnel from the grenade tore into Mr Prakong’s chest. Thai Rath newspaper reported that he died in Ramathibodi Hospital at 1:30 the next morn-
ing from acute renal failure after losing too much blood. During the funeral, the crowd blew whistles to mourn the death of Mr Prakong. Eakkapop Thongtub thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
Seller arrested on drugs charges POLICE H AV E A Rrested a 30-year-old man suspected of selling methamphetamine to teenagers in Phuket Town. Police received a tipoff that a man staying at the Sunantha Mansion on Sakdidej Road was “engaged in behaviour associated with selling drugs to teenagers” and paid the place a visit on Wednesday (January 22) around 9am. Inside they found Attapol “Nueng” Somboon, and after a search they found 338 methamphetamine (ya ba) pills and 65.6 grams of crystal methamphetamine (ya ice). Also found was a digital scale, a mobile phone and two packs of zipper plastic bags. Attapol admitted the drugs were his, and that he buying from a supplier he named as Mr Chuay. He was charged with drug possession . Eakkapop Thongtub
PHUKET NEWS
Tourist injured after car hits three bikes Claire Connell editor1@classactmedia.co.th
G
reek tourist Paulina Ioannidou, 23, had a rocky start to her island holiday when her motorbike was hit by a car at Chalong Circle and the driver sped off, leaving her lying injured on the road. Miss Ioannidou, who had been in the country only two days after arriving from Germany, was at Chalong Circle on her motorbike waiting to drive north up Chao Fa West Rd around 5.30pm on Sunday (January 19), when a car came around the circle and the driver appeared to misjudge things. The car crashed into her motorbike, as well as into one being ridden by a European man, plus another with a Thai family on board. All were waiting outside the circle for the traffic to clear. Miss Ioannidou was hit on her right side and fell onto the bonnet of the car. The car
Paulina Ioannidou, 23, will keep riding despite the crash. driver instantly reversed and drove off, causing Miss Ioannidou to fall from the bonnet onto the road. She says she was fortunate the car was only going around 20kmh when it hit her bike. When she fell she grazed her leg and foot, as well as bruis-
One of the teenagers is interviewed by police. On the desk is the gun and ammunition.
Weekend market police swoop averts shootout P OL IC E ON SU N DAY (January 26) managed to catch two members of a teenage gang after a tip-off that gang members had been seen in the Naka Market on Wirat Hongsyok Rd carrying guns. The call came at 8:30pm and police from Vichit Police Station were quickly on the scene, fearing that shooting might break out at any moment and innocent tourists, shoppers and stallholders @thephuketnews
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might be hit. Police came across a gang of about six to eight teenagers but all but two managed to escape before police could search them. A search of the two they did lay hands on turned up a cleaver and a 9mm handgun with eight rounds of ammunition. One of the two, who for legal reasons can be named only as “Dang”, is studying at
Phuket Vocational college but the other, “Bao” is a drop-out. During questioning the two said that they had been looking for “enemies” and had found them. The members of the gang had just gathered together and were about to launch their attack when the police swooped on them. Police charged them with carrying concealed weapons and illegal possession of a firearm. Eakkapop Thongtub
ing her hip, ribs and shoulder when the car hit her body. Thankfully, the jacket she was wearing stopped her losing skin on her upper body. “I fell on the [foreign] guy and the Thai family fell too. It was quite a big impact. Then the driver reversed and left the
circle, and drove toward Kata. “I picked up my scooter, and checked if the family were okay, and they were.” Getting back on the bike, she stopped at Villa Market to have a break, and said by the time she reached her home in Chalong the adrenaline had worn off and she was feeling “burning pain” from her grazes. Miss Ioannidou is a thirdyear medical student in Germany, so was able to look after her grazes herself. She said she could not remember the licence plate because it was in Thai characters, and the car was driven off so quickly there was no time to use her cellphone to take a photo. She didn’t call the police because she had no other details other than the car was a white Toyota – the windows were tinted, so she couldn’t see the driver inside. She said she was shocked the driver left the scene straight away, because that would never
happen in Germany, where you can spend time in prison for fleeing a crash scene or not helping with first aid. She was also surprised no one else who saw the crash offered to help her. “I was shocked, everyone came out to look and just stared. No one helped or reacted.” Miss Ioannidou arrived on Sunday night to Phuket to stay for around six months to study Muay Thai and attend Thai language classes. She is trying to keep a positive attitude and says her injuries are more annoying than anything because she won’t be able to do any Muay Thai for a few weeks. She recommended other motorbike riders always wear a helmet, which she was, as well as long sleeve clothing – her jacket protected her arms during the fall. “I’m still angry at the driver, but I can’t change the situation.”
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
Experts discuss ways to tackle accident toll Wiparatana Na Thalang reporter1@classactmedia.co.th
D
octors, nurses, police and media from the country’s 14 southern provinces began a two-day meeting on Thursday (January 23) to share ideas on how to reduce accidents on the roads and take the ideas back home. Opening the meeting at Boat Lagoon Resort, Dr Wiwat Ketamanoot, from the Provincial Traffic Accident Support Team, said, “Every half an hour one person dies on the roads in the southern provinces. “In Phuket alone, two people die every three days. We have been discussing all the cases on the island to see if we can establish why people died in these accidents. “We have funding from taxes on alcohol and cigarettes. We are going to use this money to develop our network to reduce road accidents.” He gave an example of how analysis of accidents can save lives.
Dr Sophon Maekthon, Director-General of the Department of Disease Control at the Ministry of Health. “There were several accidents at the Darasamut intersection [next to Central Festival]. We found that many were caused by the flashing amber traffic lights during the night. So we asked the Highways Department to change the lights back to red, amber and green. As the result of this being done at 10 sets of lights, the death rate dropped from 200 people a year to 147. “In Phuket, only 40 per cent of drivers used to wear helmets while riding a motor-
cycle. Since we erected ‘Wear a helmet’ signs around Phuket, the number of people wearing helmets grew to the point where the number of helmets for sale was not enough to meet demand.” Drink driving is another problem. “To reduce the number of accidents from drunk driving, Governor Maitri Inthusut has supported us by giving us the funds to buy breathalysers.” Dr Kajornsak Kaewjarat, Director of the Phuket Public Health Department, said, with
a grin, “I admire the foreigners who, although they do not wear their shirts while riding their motorcycles, still wear helmets.” The most senior official at the meeting, Dr Sophon Maekthon, Director-General of the Department of Disease Control at the Ministry of Health told the meeting the role of the media was important. “[Stories in the] media [about accidents] help to raise awareness that we need to behave according to the rules – which can reduce the number of road accidents. Our target is to halve the number of fatalities per year by the year 2020. He noted that national statistics for last year and the year before showed that roughly two thirds of the people who die from road accidents do so at the scene of the crash, and said there were five main contributing factors: speeding, not wearing a helmet, drunk driving, falling asleep, and hitting dangerous objects by the road side, such as trees, road signs, and concrete blocks.
In the past five years, the number of people dying on the road has not fallen at all, Dr Sophon said. However, the death rates vary considerably from one province to another. “[Last year] there were no road deaths in Trad, Bung Kan, Mae Hong Son, Phang Nga and Pattani. “The highest death rates were in Nakorn Ratchassima, Surat Thani and Udon Thani. “The highest percentage of accidents was between 4 and 8 pm. “We are offering bonuses for police who catch law-breakers on the road, and to citizens who help them to do so.” Another problem involves motorbike riders without helmets. “The idea of catching a rider without a helmet by following them on a motorcycle, [first responders] thought it was a good idea” said Orachon Atataweelap, a Health Department academic, “but they are concerned that people would think police wanted a bribe from them.”
A ‘pretty girl’ displays one of the special numbers.
Plate auction attracts lower bids than usual DISAPPOINTING PRICES were achieved at the weekend (January 25 and 26) in Phuket’s ninth Special License Plate Auction at the Phuket Merlin Hotel. Both the highest bid for a special plate and the overall figure were below those achieved in previous years. Nevertheless, significant amounts of money went into a national fund for road accident prevention and reduction, and for grants to buy wheelchairs or artificial limbs for people crippled in road accidents. The top price was paid
for the number KorMor 9999, which sold for B1,030,000 – down from the B1.4 million paid for GorPor 9999 in last year’s auction. The overall revenue from the auction was B23.7 million, down from B26 million last year and B30.5 million in 2012. The auction was chaired by the national Director-General of the Land Transport Department, Autsathai Rattanadilok Na Phuket, and was attended by a variety of VIPs including Governor Maitri Inthusut. Suthicha Sirirat
IN BRIEF PHUKET
Island’s coldest day in five years The island experienced its coldest day in five years last week, when the temperature on Thursday (January 23) reached a low of 19 degrees Celsius. Southern Meteorological Centre (West Coast) Director of Weather Surveillance Metta Armeen said that last week was particularly cold for Phuket in the mornings and evenings.
NAI YANG
Swedish tourist dies in smash A 51-year old Swedish tourist, Mikael Nilsson from Stockholm, died on Wednesday morning (January 22) after he lost control of his motorbike and hit a crash barrier on the Airport Rd. A friend told police that they were heading for Nai Yang Beach at speed when Mr Nilsson hit the barrier, then died instantly. Eakkapop Thongtub
PATONG
Gang murder suspect caught A young man wanted for murder in Satun Province was arrested on Tuesday night (January 28) in Patong. Kathu police received a warrant from Satun, requesting them to arrest Hazarn Samart, 20, wanted for his involvement in a gang killing three months ago in which a person was shot dead. Other members of the gang were arrested but Hazarn escaped. Police found him selling grilled chicken and meatballs in Patong. Eakkapop Thongtub
THALANG
One dead after pick-up truck flips A 42-year-old woman died after a truck flipped over in front of PTT gas station at Ban Li Porn in Sri Sunthon on Saturday (January 25) around 10.30am. Police questioned the 62-year-old driver, Yuphin Sitthidaj, who said she and two other passengers were driving when a car suddenly stopped in front of them. Mrs Yuphin hit the brakes and lost control of the pick-up truck, smashing into the traffic island. Passenger Onuma Withee, 42, died at the scene. Eakkapop Thongtub thephuketnews
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PHUKET NEWS
Two people shot dead in Kathu A MAN AND HIS MOTHER were shot dead in Kathu after a heated argument over a land rental contract on Saturday afternoon (January 25). Police and Kusoldharm Foundation Rescue volunteers found the body of 37-year-old Mr Woraphat Tiratantayaporn who was shot in the head, left chest, right arm and stomach with a .38 mm gun. Nearby was the body of Mr Woraphat’s 59-year-old mother, Puangrat Tiratantayaporn, who was shot in the neck, left arm and left hand. Bunlert Thanomanantakul, 43, confessed to the crime. According to police, before the incident Mr Bunlert came to see Mrs Puangrat to discuss renewing the land rental contract, but she refused and complained about how dirty the property was. M o m e n t s l a t e r, M r Woraphat came back from work and joined the argument, before Mr Bunlert took out a gun and shot them. Police collected evidence and Mr Bunlert was taken to Thung Thong police for questioning. Eakkapop Thongtub
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
TOWN REVIVAL Talks with Songkhla may boost tourism Wiparatana NaThalang
reporter1@classactmedia.co.th
P
rog ress in t u r ning Phuket’s Old Town into a first-class tourism site continues after the Mayor of Phuket City, Somjai Suwannasupapana met recently with her counterpart from Songkhla, Somsak Thantisaenee. Kawee Tonsukatanon, Deputy Mayor of Phuket City, told The Phuket News that the town has joined a network with Songkhla and Chiang Mai, both of which have established Old Town Foundations. Phuket has done the same, and hopes the three cities can learn from one another. “We are trying to preserve the old town so that it looks the best that it can. The electricity company helped us to put telephone and electricity cables underground [in Thalang Rd] and installed [coloured] LED lights. “We have also asked owners of shop houses to take part by fixing and painting their window frames and the stucco on their shopfronts.
Civic pride: Shopfronts in the old town, cleaned up and lit for the Old Town Festival. They have to pay only 10 to 25 per cent of the cost; the rest will be met by the Old Town Foundation.” The city also hopes that companies may step forward to help. The paint company TOA set an example the year before last by painting all the houses on Soi Romanee, providing both paint and labour.
“We have also reopened the five-foot ways [covered walkways] along some parts of the streets by removing walls and persuading shops to move their goods out of the way, allowing people to walk along the street in the shade. “We wanted to join the network with Songkhla and Chiang Mai because we have
had the same experience as them in trying to develop the old town by registering a foundation.” At the Chinese New Year celebrations on February 7 to 9 at Dragon Park), he said, the Municipality would inform the public of progress so far in reviving the old town and of its further plans.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
German tourist gets his cash back A LUCKY GERMAN tourist got his mislaid bag back on Sunday morning (January 26), along with B7,000 in cash and personal documents, after he left it in the TescoLotus Express minimart at Phuket Airport. Pol Maj Uramporn Khundechsamtith, Tourist Police Inspector, told The Phuket News that Sawinee Dechakul, who works for a car rental company at the airport, contacted them to say she had found the bag. She had asked for their help in returning it to its owner. From the documents in the bag they identified the owner as Gerdwill Vellther. T hey managed to find him and later in the day, delighted, he came back to the airport to collect. Grateful, he gave Ms Sawinee B1,000 as a reward. Eakkapop Thongtub
Ms Philpott (4th from right), poses for a picture with her liaison/interpreter Poolsri Nimpoolsward (black jacket) and staff of Siam Niramit.
MICE blogger takes a look at Phuket’s Siam Niramit VICTORIA PHILPOTT, ONE of five finalists in a competition staged by the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), visited Siam Niramit this week. All the finalists in the competition are bloggers who specialise in writing about meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions, or “MICE”. The competition aims to showcase
the capability and readiness of five MICE cities in Thailand, of which Phuket is one. The f inalists made it through earlier rounds to win a one-week educational trip to one of the five destinations. Ms Philpott, who is from Britain, won Phuket.The finalists must spend the week inspecting their particular city and write posts and blogs about these
destinations and their facilities. They will then share their experiences through blogs and other social media until February 25. The most inspiring blog with the highest views will win for its writer a cash prize of US$5,000 (about B150,000), while the blog judged to have the “best content” will win for its writer US$3,000 (B90,000). thephuketnews
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PHUKET NEWS
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
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Phuket kids victorious A T E A M OF YOU NG dancers from the Baan Bangneaw Municipal School in Phuket Town beat 11 other teams to win the national finals of their division of the “To Be Number One” Teen Dancersize Competition in Bangkok on Sunday and Monday (January 26-27). Competing in the Junior Division for students age 6-9, the
HERO team wowed the panel of celebrity judges with their highenergy precision performance in front of a standing-room-only crowd to win their division for the second year in a row. Another team from Baan Bangneaw School, “AHA”, who won the Pre-Teen Southern Regional Championships in December, took fourth place in their division.
The winning kids from the Baan Bangnaew School HERO team, one of two finalist teams from the school.
Tsunami buoy to be replaced T
The tsunami warning buoy is seen aboard the MV SEAFDEC after it arrived in Phuket.
Nai Harn Condominium project open for sales SPONSORED DEPOSITS ARE NOW being accepted for units in the new Naiharn Beach Condominium project, located in the hills above Nai Harn Lagoon and within easy walking distance of Nai Harn Beach. The project’s elevated site means that residents will have expansive views not only of Nai Harn Bay but also of Rawai and even Chalong Bay. The project will consist of two seven-storey Westerndesign buildings comprising a total of 50 units, along with parking, gardens, a large communal swimming pool, a café, a fitness centre and a clubhouse. There will be three types of unit: 45 sqm one-bedroom, 67 sqm two-bedroom and 115 sqm two bedroom. Prices range from B2.99 million to B15 million. Those interested can visit the sales office and show unit on Soi Suan Wat, on the way from Sai Yuan to Nai Harn Beach. Anyone introducing a prospective buyer can expect commission of 5 per cent when the sale goes through. @thephuketnews
The project has big views in three directions and Nai Harn Beach (below) is just a few minutes’ walk away.
For more information call Sales Manager Rachatkamol “Betty” Nongchaija at 09-000-
444-54 or see the website at naiharncondominiumphuket. com
he National Disaster Warning Centre (NDWC) has decided to replace an errant tsunami warning buoy in the Indian Ocean after deciding that repairing it would not be worthwhile. The buoy, a Deep-Ocean Assessment and Reporting of Tsunami (DART) buoy, was found to be out of position, and was not communicating information as it was supposed to. It was recovered by the MV SEAFDEC, which belongs to the Samut Prakan-based Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Centre. Gp Capt Somsak Kawsuwan, Director of the NDWC, told The Phuket News, after the buoy had been brought
back to Phuket, that it was not clear how it got out of position. However, it had been decided to replace it. The new buoy will be positioned at the end of this month or the beginning or February. It takes three or four days to reach the site, which is around 1,000 km from Phuket. The cost of the buoy – and of taking it out to the site and anchoring it – is expected to be B21 million. The buoy has a usable life of about two years after which it will have to be replaced again. He added that there are two more functioning warning buoys in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Thailand, so people can be confident that
an effective watch is still being kept for signs of an incoming tsunami. The three buoys are part of a network of six buoys and 25 seismographic stations in the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning System, all aimed at detecting and measuring earthquakes and sea movements to alert countries around the Indian Ocean of a possible tsunami. India has a further four DART buoys in the Indian Ocean, but these have been the target of theft by fishermen who take parts from them, believing there may be precious metal they can sell, or who steal the anchors that hold them in place. Suthicha Sirirat
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Two people shot dead in Kathu Swede sentenced to life for 2011 Phuket murder Two-day alcohol ban in Phuket begins today Phuket tourist injured as car hits three bikes at Chalong Circle, then speeds away Phuket man dies after getting hit by truck Core protest leader shot dead Troubled Hungarian living on streets in Phuket Town U nu s u al 3 - m o nth cold spell in Thailand claims 63 lives Phuket protesters close three more govt offices Big List: Weird fame
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
Civil liberty vs welfare
I
t is to be hoped that all will end well soon for the lost and confused Hungarian tourist, 73-year-old Farkas Gyula, with his return to his family in Switzerland next week. After he was found disoriented in Kamala on January 11, it was quickly ascertained that Mr Gyula was suffering from some form of debilitating mental condition, possibly Alzheimer’s, and he was put in a hotel in Kamala. But he checked out four days later and ended up being given a bed instead at the Tourist Police HQ in Phuket Town. As he had not committed any crime, Mr Gyula was free to come and go as he pleased. Which is exactly what he did. When our reporter chanced upon Mr Gyula earlier this week, he was lying slumped on the roadside outside the Vachira Phuket Hospital, barefoot and
with badly swollen ankles. She called the Tourist Police and they came to pick him up. Apparently, for the last two weeks, the old chap had walked back and forth between Vachira Hospital and the Tourist Police, not to seek medical aid, but to beg for food. Whether the Thai police should – or even could – have done more is a question for another day. It is unlikely anyone in that office is qualified to care for someone suffering from senile dementia. However, this case illuminates what happens to foreigners who fall through the cracks between the range of consular services provided by a citizen’s consulate, and Thai state welfare. It later transpired that a similar situation had occurred involving Mr Gyula in 2012. Luckily, back then, the plane ticket to send him home was
covered by his personal health insurance. A compulsory emergency health care plan for visitors has featured heavily in the news recently, when it emerged that foreigners without health insurance cost the country billions of baht every year for medical treatment. It now seems unlikely that plan will come to fruition and in any case, there is a question of whether mental health issues would come under the umbrella of emergency treatment. But what is certain is that Mr Gyula should not have been left to roam the streets of Phuket Town, barefoot and confused. Someone, whether police, hospital staff or family, should have taken responsibility for his welfare. And one also has to ask, how did he come to board an aircraft to Thailand, unaccompanied, in the first place?
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Thanks for helping [Re: Tragedy strikes Sinbi Muay Thai as donations pour in] I just thought you may be interested to know that Wang has been given the all clear from cancer, I meant to write a thank you a while back but have been snowed under with work since I got back. I didnt realise while I was away how many articles you put out there to help promote our event, which was the busiest we ever put on, I’m sure largely due to your articles. We presented Wang with approx. B255,000 just the other day, then an hour ago he called to say the doctor says his cancer has gone. He has a long road to recovery but I just wanted to extend thanks from everyone at Sinbi for helping us promote our charity event. Dave
Aloha from Hawaii My name is James Press and although I’m not currently living on Phuket, I like to keep up with what is going on there as it is one of my
favourite places to be, and has always been my top choice of places to live when I retire. (I currently live on Hawaii). I just wanted to drop you a note to let you know how much I enjoy The Phuket News. Especially your Phuket News TV. I usually watch your current edition on my iMac or iPhone, however I would love to be able to watch Phuket News TV from the comfort of my living room on my large screen TV. Thanks again, and I look forward to your next edition of Phuket News TV. James Press
Letter to Dirk [Re. Dirk Naumann – Man on a mission] Dear Dirk Naumann! We, the Russians who choose Thailand as our permanent place of residence, are deeply offended by the article that was published on your behalf in the newspaper. In this article you say that in Phuket people can neither live nor swim due to poor
environmental conditions. We strongly disagree. Phuket island is famous among lovers of ecotourism with its natural national parks. The island’s beaches attract tourists from all over the world with their pristine beauty. Since 2002, the Thai National Bureau of Standards of Ecology has monitored the beaches of Phuket. They constantly check changes pollution levels in both shore and seawater, and the development of tourism infrastructure. The results of studies conducted in the last year show that all beach holiday destinations are in good condition. You also have some exaggerated opinion about the role and contribution of the Europeans in the economy of Thailand. Please pay attention to the reaction of tourist traffic from different countries to the critical events in the life of the country, such as political conflicts, epidemics and tsunamis in Phuket. The Russian market, together with markets of the other CIS countries, were the
only ones to treat adequately the difficulties experienced by the Kingdom, continuing to choose Thailand as the place for holidays, while European tourist flows permanently disappeared from the Thailand market. Are these facts not enough evidence of stability, and growth of the economic prospects of the Russian-speaking market for interests in Thailand? And are you sure that all the Chinese people eat in 7/11, and then return to Chinese hotels to play mahjong? I want to remind you that of the total population living in Thailand, some 15 per cent are ethnic Chinese. This 15 per cent controls more than 90 per cent of Thai industry and trade, which allows them to have a powerful lobby in the government. Can we say the same about the Europeans? The obvious answer is “no.” Yury Segal, president of Russkiy Dom & Mikhail Ilyin, CEO of Ilves Tour
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OPINION 11
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
The Governor’s thoughts
Gov Maitri Inthusut tells The Phuket News what’s on his mind
T
he protests [against the government] in Phuket are a civil movement for democracy. Phuket has a civil society that is active and enthusiastic. People like to participate, to share, especially when it comes to politics. Even though the situation in Bangkok is serious, as we can see, this has not affected Phuket. Phuket people are citizens, and citizens have rights, duties and responsibilities. There are four aspects to the word “citizen”. The first one is rights and duties. The second is virtue and good governance. The third is the attitude that puts the common interest before personal interest. Phuket people hold to these courses. That’s why, here, the attitude and actions of the people are different from those of people in other provinces. The fourth aspect to the meaning of the word is the search for wisdom and knowledge. Awakening, too, is included in the meaning of the word “citizen”.
TOURISM Tourism in Phuket has been growing. During the New Year at the
@thephuketnews
So, the protests have not affected Phuket’s tourism. The tourist atmosphere of Phuket is still fine.
TRANSPORT
beginning of this year, the number of tourists in Phuket was up by nine per cent. Passengers going through Phuket International Airport between January 1 and 12 this year – both domestic and international flights – averaged 37,192 a day. At the beginning of December last year the average was about
32,000 passengers per day. I think people come to Phuket because they like the hotels, the facilities, and other man-made things, the buildings and the attractive places, especially the beaches which have white sand, crystal-clear blue sea, and the luxury resorts, hotels and spas. Spas in Phuket account for one
third of Thailand’s entire income from the spa industry. Three years from now, Central Festival will have expanded to the other side to [what used to be] Tai Naan restaurant, with shopping malls, extensive conference facilities able to accommodate 10,000 people, and hotels. Demolition of Tai Naan is already under way.
Another issue which provincial officials are driving forward is transportation. The road bridge across Klong Koh Phee, which Phuket people have been awaiting for 18 years will be finished in a year and a half, at a cost of B176 million. We also have five more major long-term infrastructure plans. The first one is the light rail between the north and south of the island, to connect with the planned railway from Surat Thani to Ta-nun in Phang Nga. The second one is the proposed road between Sakoo and Koh Kaew and the third is the tunnel between Kathu and Patong. The fourth one is the underpass at Chalong Circle, and the final one is the “green road” between Sirirat Rd in Patong and Meun Ngern Rd in Karon. These are the long-term plans for the coming five to six years. Now, all these plans are the subject of public hearings.
12 THAILAND NEWS
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Controversial election to go ahead on Sunday T
he government wants controversial elections to go ahead this weekend, a deputy prime minister said Tuesday, despite threats by opposition protesters to disrupt the polls to stop the ruling party returning to power. Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra began talks with election officials who want to delay the vote following street violence in which at least 10 people have been killed and hundreds injured in grenade attacks, drive-by shootings and clashes. In the latest incident, shots were fired Tuesday near the Bangkok army base where Yingluck was holding meetings, as hundreds of protesters massed outside. Emergency services said two people were injured although the exact circumstances were not immediately clear. The Thai capital has been shaken by nearly three months of mass street demonstrations, demanding Yingluck’s elected government step down to make way for an unelected “people’s council” that would oversee reforms aimed at curbing the dominance of her billionaire family. The government has shown little enthusiasm for an election delay, which it fears would only prolong the political deadlock. “We insist that the election on February 2 must be held because the majority of people want the election,” Deputy
Scenes like 2011’s election are unlikely to be repeated. Photo: AFP/Pornchai Kittiwongsakul Prime Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul, who is also the foreign minister, told reporters after a cabinet meeting. T he mai n opposit ion Democrat Party is boycotting Sunday’s polls, saying reforms are needed to ensure the vote is truly democratic and to prevent abuse of power by the next government. Advance voting over the weekend was marred by widespread disruption by opposition protesters who besieged polling stations and stopped hundreds of thousands from
casting ballots. Protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban has threatened to “close every route” to polling stations again for the main election, raising fears of further violence. An anti-government rally leader was shot dead on Sunday while giving a speech from the back of a pickup truck in a Bangkok suburb, during the campaign by demonstrators to block advance voting. In another apparently politically related killing, the body of a man wearing a wristband popular among protesters was
found Tuesday near a rally site with several bullet wounds, according to police, although the circumstances of his death were unclear. “He could be a protester or someone who infiltrated the demonstrators,” said Police Colonel Charoen Srisasalak. Yingluck’s meeting with the election authorities comes after the Constitutional Court last Friday ruled that the polls could legally be pushed back because of the civil strife. The head of Yingluck’s Puea Thai Party said Monday he opposed a postponement
and accused the Election Commission of not doing enough to ensure an orderly vote. The government notes that under the constitution an election should normally be held no more than 60 days after the dissolution of parliament, which happened in early December. The opposition argues that an election without reforms will not resolve the long-running political conflict. Several hundred protesters gathered outside the Army Club in the capital where Yingluck’s cabinet met and where the premier was due to meet election officials later in the day. “We came today to ask the prime minister to resign and take responsibility that our people were shot dead,” protest leader Chumphon Julsai said over a loudspeaker outside the venue, which was guarded by riot police. The protesters have staged a self-styled “shutdown” of Bangkok since January 13, occupying several main intersections, although attendance has gradually dwindled and disruption has been limited. T he gove r n ment ha s declared a 60-day state of emergency in the capital and surrounding areas, giving authorities the power to ban public gatherings of more than five people, although they have not yet done so and demonstrators have vowed to defy the decree. AFP
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
Yanyong: Farmers will get money THE GOVERNMENT will try its best to make a payment as soon as possible to farmers who are still unpaid for their crops pledged under the rice scheme, caretaker Deputy Commerce Minister Yanyong Puangraj said on Tuesday. The government is now in the process of raising B130 billion in loans to pay the rice farmers suffering from the payment delay, he said. Mr Yanyong called on growers to understand the difficulties of the caretaker government. He said the government had already spent B780 billion on its rice pledging programme over the past two years without any problem. But after the dissolution of the House of Representatives, the law prohibits the caretaker administration from making any move that might place a debt burden on the next government, he added. Some g roups were now trying to use this legal limitation to obstruct the caretaker government from acquiring loans to pay rice farmers, by blocking entrances to the Finance Ministry, the Bank for Agriculture and Cooperatives, the Government Savings Bank and the Krung Thai Bank, he said. Bangkok Post.
Two men and child slain in South Pattaya police appeal for help in locating parents of 5 year-old PATTAYA POLICE WERE called to Soi Bongkot in Central Pattaya on Monday following reports of a five year-old boy who was sitting on the side of the pavement and appeared to have become lost or was abandoned. The boy, Khun Moona, was taken to Pattaya Police Station where he revealed the nicknames of his parents, Mr M and Mrs Ern. He also revealed how he attended the Chaimongkol Temple Nursery.
A teacher was called in to identify the boy but did not recognise him. Police had no choice but to take the child to the District Women and Children’s Shelter in Banglamung where he will be cared for while his parents are tracked down. If you recognise the child and can help to locate his parents, call Pattaya Police Station on 038 424 186 or the case officer’s private number 087 563 9035. Pattaya One
TWO MEN AND A SEVEN-YEARold girl were killed in an ambush carried out by suspected insurgents in Rangae district late Monday afternoon. Security officials called to inspect three bodies identified the two men as Ismael Dawrauh, 35, and Assanai Jaeso, 32. The name of the young girl is not yet known. The victims were travelling home on a pickup truck after running an errand in the village when at least two gunmen hiding in roadside bushes sprayed bullets at the vehicle from AK-47 assault rifles. Ismael was hit by multiple shots to the torso and head and died instantly. The assailants then came out onto the road and fired more shots at the pickup. One bullet hit the girl in the chest, killing her, said Pol Col Jiradej Phrasawarng, chief of Rangae police
Two men and a seven-year-old girl were killed in an ambush in Rangae district late Monday afternoon. Photo: Bangkok Post/Waedao Harai station. Assanai was injured in the attack but managed to flee into a roadside bush. The gunmen shot him in the back twice before quickly leaving the scene.
Police found 12 spent cartridges from AK-47 rifles at the site, Pol Col Jiradej said. Investigators have blamed separatist militants, but will continue to investigate. Bangkok Post
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WORLD NEWS 13
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
Putin marks 70th anniversary of lifting of Leningrad siege P resident Vladimir Putin said Monday the memory of Russia’s heroism and sacrifice during World War II will endure as his country marked the 70th anniversary of the lifting of the Nazi siege of Leningrad. Putin participated in commemorative ceremonies in his native Saint Petersburg, known as Leningrad under the Soviet Union, saying the world should never forget “the courage and heroism of the Soviet people and residents of Leningrad”. The two-and-a-half-year assault is considered the most lethal siege in history, with German wartime commanders calculating that starvation was their most effective weapon against Leningrad’s inhabitants and defenders. Putin met war veterans and survivors of the siege and laid flowers at memorials for the dead. “Three hundred and sixty thousand civilians died in Leningrad over a period of just four months from the end of 1941 to the start of 1942,”
A visitor takes photo of a WWII-era Soviet poster reading: “We won’t forget German fascist bandits!” at an outdoor exhibition to mark the 70th anniversary of the final raise of the Nazi blockade of the city Leningrad, now St. Petersburg. Photo: AFP/Olga Maltseva Putin told veterans. “Britain lost nearly the same amount in the entire World War II. “Can you imagine the difference between the victims that the Soviet Union and other countries of the world laid on
the altar of common victory?” The 872-day siege by Nazi forces between September 1941 and January 1943 is seared into the national consciousness as one of the darkest moments in Russian history. Taking Leningrad was a
Florida court clears ‘medical marijuana’ ballot measure FLOR IDA COULD BECOME THE latest US state to relax its laws on marijuana use after a court ruled Monday that a proposal to legalise medicinal pot could be put before voters later this year. Advocates seeking to legalise pot for medicinal purposes in Florida said they exceeded the 683,149 signatures needed to put the measure on a November ballot by almost 40,000. And in a 4-3 ruling from the state Supreme Court, the legality and the wording of the measure, which was challenged by
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state officials, was given a green light. “Voters are given fair notice as to the chief purpose and scope of the proposed amendment,” the ruling said. For Ben Pollara, campaign manager of People United for Medical Marijuana said the move “is a historic moment for the people of Florida – and in particular, those suffering from debilitating conditions and illnesses.” According to an October 2013 Gallup poll, 58 per cent of Americans favour legalising marijuana. AFP
strategic part of Adolf Hitler’s ultimately failed plan to eliminate the Soviet Union as a threat to Nazi Germany’s domination of Europe. On Monday, Ger man President Joachim Gauck wrote to Putin to express
Berlin’s “deep sadness and shame” at the siege, saying that Germany recognised its “historical responsibility for the suffering inflicted on the people of Leningrad”. Gauck acknowledged that starving the besieged population into submission had been the Nazi strategy during the siege. “The monstrous scope of human suffering still leaves us aghast,” he said. ‘I can hardly hold back tears’ Surrounded by several dozen survivors of the siege, Putin earlier visited the famed Piskaryovskoe Memorial Cemetery, the main memorial to the victims of the siege. Putin honoured the memory of his elder brother who died during the blockade and was buried at the cemetery in a mass grave, the Kremlin said. The president also laid f lowers at a memorial on the banks of the Neva River marking the site of one of the most important battles during the siege in which his father participated as a soldier. AFP
IN BRIEF UNITED KINGDOM
MPs criticise Queen’s finances British lawmakers on Tuesday urged Queen Elizabeth II’s royal household to do more to reduce running costs and produce clearer plans for the monarch’s financial future. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report also highlighted a backlog of property repairs as a cause for concern. “There is scope for the household to generate more income and reduce its costs further,” said committee chairman Margaret Hodge.
NEW ZEALAND
Diver fights off shark with knife A New Zealand doctor fought off an attacking shark with a knife before heading ashore to stitch his own wounds and on to the nearest pub for a beer, reports said Tuesday. James G rant was spearfishing near Colac Bay on the southern coast of New Zealand on Saturday when he felt the shark wrap its jaws around his leg.
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BUSINESS NEWS 15
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
Airlines, hotels cutting prices as politics bite DOMESTIC AIRLINES ARE feeling the pinch from protests in Bangkok as travellers’ concerns grow over security and a general perception among Thais that now is not an ideal time to plan a domestic holiday. Northern destinations are enjoying remarkably cool weather with temperatures ranging from 10º to 12º C in the morning, rising to around 20º to 25º in the daytime. The longest cool season in decades, the weather should have been a factor drawing more domestic visitors than are being recorded. Thai Smile hopes its latest fares will encourage travellers to head north. Thai Smile is selling oneway Bangkok-Chiang Mai promotional fares, exclusive of airport taxes, for B1,600 for flights on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and B1,800 on the remaining three days. This, the airline says, is a discount of about 25 per cent. The one-way fares between Phuket and Chiang Mai have been cut to B2,900 and B3,100 respectively, while the flights between Bangkok and Phuket are now B1,950 and B2,150.
Other discounts are being offered on flights between Bangkok and Chiang Rai, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Surat Thani, Krabi and Hat Yai. The fares apply to flights booked and used before February 28. Bangkok Airways has cutsfares on selected domestic and international routes for travel during March and April. The one-way promotional fares, exclusive of airport taxes, ex-Bangkok, are B940 to Udon Thani, B1,190 to Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Trat, and Krabi, and B1,290 to Lampang and Phuket. For international route, the airline offers a roundtrip fare, exclusive of airport taxes, starting at Bt1,290 ex-Bangkok to Yangon, Mandalay, Phnom Penh, and Vientiane. Thai Smile’s parent company, Thai International, has also cut fares, by 40 per cent. Sample fares: Bangkok or Phuket to Hong Kong from B6,600; Bangkok-Nagoya B15,040; Bangkok to KL or Penang, B3,980. The reduced fares, which do not include taxes or surcharges, are valid until the end of March. Bangkok Post, TTR Weekly
PRES organisers and participants pose for a group photograph.
Phuket Property Show promises plenty of fun T his year’s Phuket Real Estate Show (PRES), which opens on February 6 and runs until February 12 at the Grand Hall on the 1st floor of Central Festival Phuket, promises to be a great deal more fun than your average property exhibition. One of the organisers, Montavee Hongsyok explained, “PRES 2014 will include a Lego house building competition, a dream house design competi-
Nok Air sticks to sexy calendar ‘tradition’ NOK AIR IS PREPARING for a flood of complaining emails, blogs, and posts on Facebook and elsewhere when its 2014 calendar is released. As last year, this year’s calendar features sexy photographs of women wearing not a huge amount of clothing. This piece of marketing will naturally attract criticism for its unapologetic sexism. Nok Air came under fire for its sexy 2013 calendar but has upped the stakes this year by using models hired and photographed by the Thai unit of Playboy magazine. Agreeing that there may be some disapproval of the sexy calendar, Nok Air chief executive Patee Sarasin told the Bangkok Post: “I have no problem with that. Some may like it and some may not.” Last year’s calendar was tut-tutted by the the Ministry of Culture, which accused Nok Air of “lacking a sense of social and cultural responsibility”. Mr Patee vowed to keep producing sexy calendars in future years, insisting it was now a Nok Air “tradition”. The calendar cost Nok @thephuketnews
The cover of the calendar. Photo: Playboy Thailand Air around B1 million, with Playboy Thailand doing the photography and bearing some of the other costs. But the 5,000 copies won’t be for sale; 3,000 will either be given to winners of Nok Air’s Facebook and Instagram contests, or as corporate gifts.
The remaining 2,000 copies will go to Playboy Thailand’s readers and clientèle. Expect to see copies appear on eBay in the coming months, fetching big bucks, which will, of course, be cause for more stories about Nok Air. That’s marketing.
tion and a rubber floor tiles installion competition. “In addition, there will be activities from JD Pools, featuring sexy models, and live concerts.” “Anyone who decides to buy a property will be eligible for a special prize such as a trip to Koh Tachai, vouchers for famous hotels, restaurant gift vouchers and 100 SF Cinema tickets.” Central Festival Phuket
General Manager Wilaiporn Pitimanaaree said, “We are glad that the Phuket Real Estate Association (P-REA) has chosen to hold the event at Central Festival. We are sure that many people, both Thais and foreigners, will visit the show.” Exhibitors will include Zcape, Chao Fah Garden Home, Centrio Condominium, Ozone Condotel, Supalai, Sino Village, Sabai Village, Perfect Live and
Plus Condo. Thanosak Puengdej, president of the P-REA said, “After the success of PRES 2013, we are sure this year’s event will attract many exhibitors and a lot of potential buyers of property.” For more information: call the P-REA at 087-382-3838 or 086-471-4874, email prea_ news@gmail.com or visit the website at phuketrealestate.or.th This event is sponsored by Class Act Media.
16 WEIRD NEWS
THE BIG LIST WEIRD GIFTS The future king of England is not the only world leader who has found himself awash with weird gifts. Here are The Phuket News’ top five strangest presents that presidents, prime ministers and emperors have received in history.
SITTING UNCOMFORTABLY: Long before Walmart and fast-food chains, American residents foraged for their food and killed wild animals to eat – well, some did. Others, like professional hunter Seth Kinman, from California, presented President Abraham Lincoln with furniture fashioned from carcasses. His speciality for each president was, rather fittingly, a ‘savage chair’, complete with horns and perhaps a stuffed bear face thrown in for good measure. Seth then used to come and have his photograph taken with the probably terrified president, while he stood with a long rifle by his side. HE BEANS WELL: The former actor turned politician, Ronald Reagan loved jelly beans, more so than the average president. Some say he was obsessed by them. In fact, it was common knowledge that jelly beans were often served in the Oval Office and on Air Force One. It’s hard to say therefore whether old Ronnie was as freaked out as Lincoln must have been, when he was presented with a portrait of himself made from 10,000 jelly beans that apparently took six months to make. The answer lies with the fact that the piece still hangs in the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. MAN’S BEST FRIEND: Russian President Vladimir Putin is the king of the photo op; he’s been snapped shirtless riding horses, while doing judo and basically doing anything that could be construed as macho, so when he was presented with ‘Buffy’ the Bulgarian puppy, his mind must have gone into overdrive as to whether pics of him playing around could have come across as anything other than manly. He ended up accepting the gift from the then-prime minister of Bulgaria, Boyko Borisov and the jovial ‘man’s best friend’ times began. Putin was later given a black Labrador from a Russian army general, an Akita puppy from Japanese officials, and a tiger. Oddly Putin gave the tiger away. DON’T PRESS THIS: As a flimsy attempt at drawing a line under past tensions affecting Russian and American relations, former Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton, handed Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov a comically huge big red button, which read RESET in English and what was supposed to be the same in Russian. Unfortunately, instead of writing the correct word perezagruzka, the American language boffins mistakenly wrote peregruzka, which instead means ‘overloaded’. Cold war not over? TWICE THE PRICE: If a president of the United States receives any gift worth less that US$350, then the rules are that he or she can keep it, otherwise it becomes a gift to the American people. Here’s a brief list of things current president Barack Obama has received since his time in office: crocodile insurance from Australia, 50 pairs of David Beckham-branded H&M underwear, a pair of headphones from rapper Ludacris, and – always one to enjoy a paddle – a ping pong table from British Prime Minister, David Cameron.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
The wonderfully weird world of British royal gifts revealed
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garden gnome, a chocolate royal coach and a falconry glove were among the gifts presented to Britain’s royal household last year, it was revealed this week. Queen Elizabeth II was the lucky recipient of a gold jewelled photo frame set on a jewelled ostrich egg when Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, president of the United Arab Emirates, made a state visit last April, according to an official list released by officials at Buckingham Palace and Clarence House. She also received four enamelled scarab beetles from the Bangladeshi high commissioner, as well as some
The future King of England looks upon his future subjects. more unusual gifts including chocolate models of Windsor Castle and the family’s Irish
state coach. On a more mundane note, she was given an oyster card
– a form of electronic ticket used on London’s transport network – when she visited Baker Street underground station. Prince Harry, the queen’s grandson, was the recipient of numerous baseball caps, polo shirts and T-shirts, and rather more surprisingly a falconry glove. Princess Anne appeared to attract the oddest gifts, including a gnome, a plastic angel and a book entitled Your Arms Remind Me of Pork Luncheon Meat. Gift givers are “discouraged from offering extravagant gifts” in the official guidelines. AFP
Mars ‘jelly doughnut’ rock intrigues scientists A STRANGE ROCK THAT LOOKS like a jelly doughnut has appeared on Mars, and scientists are closer to figuring out how it got there, a top NASA expert said last week. The small, round object suddenly popped up in pictures taken 12 days apart by the US space agency’s decadeold Opportunity rover. On December 26, 2013, it was not there. On January 8, it was. But what is it? “It looks like a jelly doughnut, white around the outside, red in the middle,” said Steve Squyres, the principal investigator of the Mars Exploration Rovers. He described the tint as a “weird deep red color, not a Martian kind of red,” which is more of a rusty hue. One thing is for sure. This is not a fried, sugary pastry. “We have looked at it with our microscope. It is clearly a rock,” he told reporters in a briefing to mark 10 years since NASA’s solar-powered Opportunity landed on the Red Planet. But it is a kind of rock no Earthling
has seen before. Squyres said scientists believe the rock, named “Pinnacle Island,” got there when the aging rover did a pirouette turn in the dusty Martian soil and knocked loose a chunk of bedrock that rolled a short distance downhill. “We think that in the process of that wheel moving across the ground, we kind of flicked it, kind of tiddly winked
it out of the ground and it moved to the location where we see it,” Squyres said. Still, scientists have not found the divet the rock would have left behind. They think it is hidden beneath one of the rover’s solar arrays. The Opportunity team plans to manuever the robotic vehicle around a bit more to see if they can find the spot from which the rock emerged. AFP
Reaching out to the world through texts A LT H O U G H I T WA S probably brainstormed as a cutting edge way of spreading the word of Jesus to the smartphone generation, in reality the British pamphlet campaign, which included an SMS exchange between the son of God and an iPhone user, instead seemed to reveal the indifference of the saviour. The idea was that the text exchange was supposed to show JC contacting someone to ask if they wanted to talk, the only problem, as social media users were quick to point out, was that the designers placed JC’s messages on the wrong side of the screen, so the lack of interest appeared to be coming from
Jesus instead of the non-believer. Netizens were quick with their quips and commented with their own wrap-ups of the conversation like user ‘sdarwkcabsiemanym’ who wrote, “Jesus, are… Are you seeing someone else?”, while xZora added, ‘Jesus Christ, man, you never have time for me anymore.’” In other related news, it would appear that it is not only the Pope who is making use of social media platforms like Twitter, with God apparently having an account (@ TheTweetOfGod) from which He dispenses biblical advice in 140 characters or less. God has over one million followers, and He follows just one person – Justin Bieber. thephuketnews
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
Jim Algie’s strange tales of Thailand
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The contenders for Best Picture Oscar
YOGYA DAYS
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Exploring the city of Yogyarkarta > page 10
The temple of Borobudur is the largest Buddhist structure ever erected in stone.
@thephuketnews
2 BOOKS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, 31,2014 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY JANUARY 31,
Exploring the dark side Jody Houton editor3@classactmedia.co.th
There’s so many different festivals, supernatural rituals, cultural curiosities, weird towns and a religion combining Buddhism, Hinduism and animism, combined with so much crime, corruption and adultery in high places, that it’s one of the most colourful and compelling places on earth to write about
The Phantom Lover and Other Thrilling Tales of Thailand Published by Tuttle Publishing Written by Jim Algie Price B525 Available in Asia Books & Kinokuniya
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n interview with Jim Algie, author of new story collection The Phantom Lover and Other Thrilling Tales of Thailand, about why quite often fiction is the only way to tell the truth about Thailand.
What in your opinion were the main difficulties of marketing a collection of short stories about Thailand; a country that is not ‘really’ particularly well known by the international market? Over the last decade some of the expat writers here have broken through in the West, most notably John Burdett, author of the crime series beginning with Bangkok 8. John was kind enough to give me a front-cover blurb, so that is a big help in terms of having some international credibility. There is a also a big Hollywood film being made based upon a Bangkok novel by Christopher Moore called Spirit House. Chris gave me a blurb for the back cover. So the success stories of these two authors have opened the door for other writers and books. In recent years, there has also been a boom in Asian horror. My collection is one of the only books to come out in English that illuminates the dark side of Thailand and such age-old rites as the Festival of the Hungry Ghosts, along with mythological figures like the Serpent King, or Phaya Nak, of Buddhist lore, and the straight-up realism of the crime underworld and capital punishment. Many of your stories were based on actual events. Was this deliberate? Did you find any difficulties or responsibilities associated with writing fiction based on non-fiction? As a journalist and travel writer based in Bangkok for two decades, I chose the most dramatic stories that I had, in some cases, already written about in non-fiction form and done plenty of research on, such as professional snake-handlers on Phuket and the Cobra Gold military exercises that used to be held there; the Asian tsunami of 2004; foreign photographers who work in danger zones in Thailand; my friendship with Thailand’s last executioner; and a different take on the country’s most infamous serial killer, See Ouey, whom I had written about in my non-fiction book, Bizarre Thailand: Tales of Crime, Sex and Black Magic. Now that most journalism pieces have
Jim Algie at the Phuket Snake Farm, taken when he was researching the first story in the collection. been dumbed down to 500-word snippets, or 30-second sound bytes on TV, the only place you can tell the in-depth truth, ironically enough, is in the realm of fiction. Do you think Thai culture, myths and society lend itself to the literary world? Thailand has an incredibly rich, original and just plain bizarre culture. There’s so many different festivals, supernatural rituals, cultural curiosities, weird towns, like one in Isaan that is filled with sacred tortoises wandering the streets, and a religion combining Buddhism, Hinduism and animism, combined with so much crime, corruption and adultery in high places, that it’s one of the most colourful and compelling places on earth to write about. Thailand is an ancient, almost medieval, society, with a congenial, high-tech façade. Once you delve below the surface you will quickly find yourself time travelling back to the 15th century. As a foreigner in Thailand writing about Thailand, what were your particular challenges regarding gathering and certifying information and accounts? In fiction you don’t have to worry so much about fact-checking. I was more concerned about making sure that the Thai characters are portrayed in convincing ways, and that I also included a few strong Thai and farang female protagonists, which is not something a lot of Western male authors do here.
Which story in the book is your favourite and why? The concluding novella, ‘Tsunami’, took eight years to write, from the time I went down to cover the story as a journalist. Then I kept going back again and again to do more interviews, cover the anniversary ceremonies and see how the psychological aftershocks affected people for years to come. Journalists usually hang around for about two weeks, do the usual five or six stories, with a business, environmental, human interest, scientific, or celebrity angle. Then they fly off like vultures to circle the next string of corpses at another catastrophe. To get the big picture on a disaster of this magnitude, which claimed some 250,000 lives, and will most likely be the worst natural disaster of our lifetimes, takes years and years. It’s not something you want to undertake lightly or cover superficially. There’s too much at stake. Trying to figure out how to work in many of the characters from previous stories into the final novella to make it a kind of epilogue also ate up a lot of time and brain cells. What is your next project? I am one of those superstitious hacks who believe that talking about current, unfinished books and projects puts a curse or jinx on them.
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ENVIRONMENT 3
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
Right place, right time at PSU Jody Houton editor3@classactmedia.co.th
At least thirty per cent of all food consumed needs to be local – this will result in benefits at every level – health wise, economically and environmentally. The many negatives of mass farming are well documented
Above right: Dr Shetty (L) shares a joke with Phuket Gov Maitri.
@thephuketnews
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onsidering Phuket Governor Maitri Inthusut’s love of the use of acronyms, it was inevitable that he would share a certain affinity with environmental organisation SEEK (Society Environment Economy Knowledge) founder Sean Panton. In fact, Gov Maitri has written many handy little pocketbooks filled with acronyms, lists and diagrams on management, with titles like The Seven Miracles from the Phuket Governor. So it was of little surprise that, when he had to leave halfway through SEEK’s latest meeting ‘Developing a Sustainable Phuket’ on January 24 held at Prince of Songkla University (PSU), that he imparted Mr Panton with the task of thinking up a new acronym to encapsulate all that has been learned in the two or so years since SEEK began, and all that still needs to be done in the future. Speaking earlier on, Gov Maitri had said, “We all need to focus on the environment problems in Phuket and work together to solve them. I think the best place to [do this] is at this university.” Also present at the first half of the morning’s meeting was Dr Kalidas Shetty, a professor at North Dakota State University in the US, who delivered a complex, complicated and considered lecture on the need for an integrated framework that incorporates the economy, environment and biology. At the heart of a future sustainable Phuket, explained Dr Shetty, was ensuring that emphasis was placed on the local as opposed to national. “At least thirty per cent of all food con-
sumed needs to be local – this will result in benefits at every level – health wise, economically and environmentally. The many negatives of mass farming are well documented.” Mr Panton referenced that at the Phuket hotel he worked for, they had started clearly labelling that the vegetables on the menu were grown locally and as a consequence sales had risen dramatically. “Phuket needs to build relationships with certain farmers and develop ecology centres,” continued Dr Shetty, “so that the new generation can thrive and continue to spread knowledge and aptitude.” With future SEEK meetings now likely to be held at the university – PSU’s Faculty of Technology and Environment will host regular seminars from next month – it seems Phuket’s environmental problems are now being addressed in the right place. As Chantinee Boonchai, a lecturer for the Environmental Management programme at PSU, was both the chairperson of and transla-
tor for the event, it is highly likely that the baton is also now, very much in the right hands. “PSU can foster worldwide collaborations,” says Dr Shetty, “and from there bring in local government and community initiatives.” Dr Shetty explained that it is often universities’ roles to provide the science, theory and academics to substantiate ideas that involve the next generation, the schools and communities. “Awareness needs to be implemented in the school curriculum, perhaps by giving [students] a school garden to maintain.” Hinging on all of this though is being able to implement changes at a government level, through policy and reform. “It needs to be incentivized,” Dr Shetty tells The Phuket News after the event, “[For example], fresh markets are big business in the US, or perhaps charge garbage tax to ensure garbage is collected or that there are adequate numbers of people working. “There needs to be policy in order to incentivize people to do the right thing,” reiterates Dr Shetty, “otherwise nothing will happen; nothing will change.” A point raised was that of the necessity to ensure people, tourists especially, were aware of the benefits and therefore adequately prepared to perhaps pay extra to bring about the change necessary. After Dr Shetty left the stage, and Gov Maitri left the room, a slightly less inspirational and more realistic atmosphere befell the room as the second half of the meeting ‘Phuket Sustainability – What has been done and what’s next’ began... For the full story, visit thephuketnews.com.
4 COMMUNITY
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, 31,2014 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY JANUARY 31,
Helping the island’s dogs Claire Connell editor1@classactmedia.co.th
I just love the dogs so much. I can’t pass a dog that’s just lying on the road after an accident, or one that’s starving. I can’t see the dogs suffering. I’m probably too kind, but I enjoy it
Clockwise, from top left, Diana Koester with foster dog Pueppi; Diana and volunteer Jasmine Napolitano with Shaggy; Jasmine helps out at the dog hotel.
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own a small soi in Thalang, Diana Koester from Germany is working hard to feed a large group of a dozen or so dogs at her home. They’re jumping up and licking her – desperately trying to get cuddles and food. It’s quite a sight. Diana, from Frankfurt, moved to Phuket two years ago to set up the Phuket Dog Resort, a hotel for dogs near Tonsai Waterfall. After coming to Thailand once or twice a year for the previous 14 or so years, Diana made the decision to pack up her life in Germany – where she worked in an office job but also fostered dogs for the local rescue centre – and move to the tropics for good in April 2012. “My idea was to open [a dog hotel] in Germany first. But there are a lot of regulations, plus every town has a minimum of 10 dog trainers and three dog hotels; there’s no need. If I wanted to do this job in Germany it would be expensive, and I would have to work 50 years to get my money back.” Diana initially looked at setting up the business on Koh Samui (which she had visited many times before), but decided there were more expats, and would therefore be more business, on Phuket. “Most of my customers are expats on visa runs, business trips and holidays back home.” Diana has loved all animals since way back, aside from spiders, which she’s terrified of. She grew up with her family’s pet German Shepherd, Asta, which born around the same time she was. She also had rabbits and guinea pigs growing up, though she is allergic to cats and can’t touch them. “A lot of people tell me I should open up a hotel for cats, but that’s impossible [because of the allergy],” she says. As well as the many dogs staying at the hotel, there are also five dogs Diana has taken in over the years. Three of them came from Koh Samui, were taken to Germany and then to Phuket; one came from Spain and another was found in Phuket. And that’s more than enough to keep Diana busy for now, she says. “I’ve been working 16-hour days since I
moved here – preparing the food, cleaning, cleaning up, tidying rooms and walking the dogs.” But as well as running her busy business – there’s room for up to 25 dogs – she’s also helping the island’s soi dogs. Every day she visits Thalang Hospital and several spots near Nai Yang Beach where she has established “feeding spots”. Here, she feeds the stray dogs and they eventually get used to interacting with humans. Once they’re comfortable with people, Diana arranges for the Soi Dog Foundation to visit to sterilise them. She’s rescued heaps of sick and injured dogs, often taking them for medical care which she pays for herself, and then fosters the dogs until she finds them a new home. A Facebook group “Feeding Phuket’s Street Dogs”, with members from around the world, raises funds for Diana to feed and care for strays. In addition, all the profits from the dog hotel, plus a lot of her own money, go to providing food and medical care for dogs in need. Diana’s also an experienced dog trainer, and runs one-on-one training sessions, group training sessions and puppy school. She also prepares her own dog food, which she started doing in Germany when her dogs had prob-
lems eating canned and dry food. With such a huge workload, Diana’s lucky her 13-year-old daughter Myriam is happy to help her mum out. Diana admits Myriam’s got a rather unconventional after-school job of cleaning up after the dogs but the pair work as a great team. “I know she’s very proud of what I’m doing,” Diana says. “She always says it’s great of me to help the dogs.” Diana’s also fortunate to have German tourist Jasmine Napolitano currently volunteering at the centre. Jasmine was travelling South East Asia and stopped in Phuket to do Muay Thai about eight months ago. She met the trainer who would become her boyfriend, and decided to stay in Phuket, getting a volunteer visa and work permit in the process. So, as a large part of her time is spent helping stray dogs, what does Diana think is the solution to the island’s street dog problem? One word, she says: Sterilisation. But Diana says stopping the sale of dogs at local markets is another essential step. She says that people who buy a dog often decide later they don’t want it any more – either it bites or it’s an inconvenience – and then the dog ends up on the street. Then comes the main problem: the dumped dogs aren’t sterilised and they start breeding, she says. But for now, Diana will just keep doing her bit to help at a local level – helping get dogs sterilised and rescuing and feeding any she sees in need. Diana’s passion for the animals is very clear to anyone who visits her, and her face lights up when she talks about the dogs she’s rescued. “I’m probably a little bit stupid – ‘farang ting-tong’,” Diana says with a laugh. “But I just love the dogs so much. I can’t pass a dog that’s just lying on the road after an accident, or one that’s starving. I can’t see the dogs suffering. I’m probably too kind, but I enjoy it.” For more information visit phuket-dogresort.com thephuketnews
HEALTH 5
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
Feasting on organic juice Jody Houton editor3@classactmedia.co.th
Two days ago I was very busy and didn’t have access to my juices and when I couldn’t have them I really missed it and I was so happy to have a juice again
Above right: Martin and Bart Smetsers at their Pura Organic juice store in Bang Tao.
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he Smetsers men, father Martin and son Bart, were so proud of their latest product – the ‘juice feast’, a diet comprised solely of organic juices – that the rotund chaps decided to practice what they preach. It has been a little over two weeks since I last dropped by to see the pair at their Pura Organic store in Bang Tao, and I found them both, as can be expected, sipping a juice and smiling. Both have lost a little weight, and have incorporated juicing into their diet; both slightly differently. Bart has started working out – for the first time in a long time – and now trains 32 km on an exercise bike every morning at 6am. “I feel great now – lots more energy and I have the motivation back to start training which I’ve not had in ages. I’m eating one meal [salad, maybe fish] a day,” says Bart. “Just one lunch and having seven juices. I feel my body loves it. “Two days ago I was very busy and didn’t have access to my juices and when I couldn’t have them I really missed it and I was so happy to have a juice again.” Bart has also given up coffee, of which he used to drink between five and 10 coffees a day. His dad, Martin, has also felt the ben-
efits of the ‘juice feast’, but admits that he has started slipping slightly since completing two weeks where he consumed nothing but the organic juices. His slip he puts down to having to taste Pura Organic’s latest produce. “I’ve been testing the yoghurt as we have a delicious new range, but I will carry on juicing. I’ll probably have three days on and a couple off.” Martin predicts that, much like what has already happened in the Smetsers’ household, juicing will become a necessity
Tailor-made health at new centre Jody Houton editor3@classactmedia.co.th
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lthough the T hanyapura Integrative Health Centre (TIHC) has been open since November 2012, the recently-opened Aesthetic Centre means that the centre is now running at ‘full strength.’ Showing The Phuket News around the new centre this week, Medical Director Dr Sutthi Sawetsuthiphan said that as well as concentrating on preventative measures to maintain health, the centre also offered a number of health programmes for particular ailments. For instance, tailored packages that can improve male health performance, female health performance, digestive performance and energy among other things. “The first step is the consultation; then the blood tests, then the implementation of supplements,” said Dr Sutthi. “Many of the blood tests are done right here at the centre,” he said, “while others like the neurotransmitter profile need to be sent @thephuketnews
TIHC Medical Director Dr Sutthi Sawetsuthip. to Germany to be analysed there – it takes about two weeks.” At the Aesthetic Centre, emphasis is also placed on measuring and improving metabolic and hormonal function. Key to Thanyapura’s work with regards to their anti-ageing treatment is their new ‘bio reset’, which activates stem cells that allow clients to ‘preserve and even restore the vitality of youth’. Advancements in antiageing techniques are an area Dr Suttthi has been intensely interested in during his 25 years of working in general practice. “I have always wanted
to focus on [anti-ageing]. Now that there’s been a lot of research about stem cells in use with anti-ageing – although a lot of it has not yet been approved, in the next few years it will be – these are exciting times.” Somebody who shares Dr Sutthi’s vision is Professor Dr Michael Klentze – chief medical and scientific officer at Thanyapura. “I’ve worked all over the world specialising in anti-ageing treatment and was actually working for the Spanish government to market Madrid as an antiageing capital, but the plans were halted with the global economic crisis,” he said. “Owner of Thanyapura Klaus Hebben had wanted to invest in Spain, so instead decided to bring me here, to open something [in Phuket]. “It’s all about combining everything together, having the nutrition, the sports centre, the programmes, it’s all interlinked so it makes sense for it all to be together. Thanyapura Integrative Health Centre has it all.” For more information visit, thanyapura.com/tihc/ home.
in people’s busy modern-day lives in the future. “With the way we work and live nowadays, this is one of the ways we can get all the vegetables and nutrients we need, if we don’t have time for breakfasts and lunches.” To find out more information on the Pura Organic Juice Programs, call 093 584 1850 or visit puraorganic.org or check out facebook.com/puraorganicfoods, where you can also find how the ‘Smetsers boys’ are doing on their juice feast.
6 KIDS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, 31,2014 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY JANUARY 31,
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The basics of beading LET’S PLAY
Yvon van Kesteren editor@classactmedia.co.th
H
ow cool is it if somebody complements you on your beautiful necklace and you can say; ”I made it myself”! Beading is not as hard as it seems. You only need to learn how to use a few basic tools, supplies and techniques and you can make some pretty creations yourself. And, believe me, this is not just for girls, there are also boys that enjoy making their own cool necklace or bracelet.
The hard part is Age: From 5 years and up always deciding what you What you need (picture 1): Pliers (with want to make, flat back) Cutter or scissors choosing your deTigertail wire (stringing wire that is sign and colour. If flexible but not stretchy) or elastic (stretchy) you have never done 2 crimps (small little beads in silver any beading before, or gold that close by applying pressure on it is easiest to start them) 1 clasp (lobster or toggle clasp) with replicating a Beads (in different colours and sizes) necklace or bracelet Beading board (optional) you like. For some Preparation: Get all your supplies at a inspiration go online beading shop or craft shop. Julapan station-
ary shop in Chalong has an extensive range of beads and supplies. Wooden and acrylic beads are the cheapest ones in the market and come in a variety of shapes, colours and sizes. Buy a toggle clasp if you want to make a bracelet. They are generally a bit more expensive than a lobster clasp, but much easier to open and close with one hand. The hard part is always deciding what you want to make, choosing your design and colour. If you have never done any beading before, it is easiest to start with replicating a necklace or bracelet you like. For some inspiration go online or browse through the jewellery section in a shop.
Originally from The Netherlands, Phuket-based Yvon van Kesteren is the mother of two girls.
Play: Start with designing your necklace or bracelet by arranging all the beads in your pattern on a beading board or the table. You can use beads of one size, one colour, or mix them up, whatever you think is prettiest. Using a beading board can help you with with the design and it is easy to see how many beads you need. (picture 2) Cut your tigertail or elastic in the correct size. For tigertail use a cutter, elastic
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5 you can cut using scissors. Always take a bit extra so you have enough space to properly attach your clasp at the end. Then start stringing on your beads. Be careful they don’t fall off the other end. You can put a crimp at one end and close it with the pliers, which will stop the beads from falling off (picture 3). When you have put on all your beads, check that the bracelet or necklace has the correct length. Allow for a little bit of extra room at the end as you still need to attach your clasp. Now it is time to finish off your piece and put on the clasp. First string on a crimp (if you have a heavy necklace use two crimps) and then add one end of the clasp. String the wire back through the crimp (picture 4) and if possible the beads and pull it tight (but not too much). Then close the crimp with your pliers and cut off the excess tigertail. Now do exactly the same at the other end (if you have added a crimp to stop the beads from falling off, cut that off first). (picture 5). If you made a bracelet or necklace with elastic, the finishing is very easy. Just tie the two ends tightly together and make a few knots. To secure the knot add a few drops of clear nail polish to it.
Add-ons for more fun play:
Attach a pendant or charm to your piece. Open up a jump ring (small ring with an opening) add your pendant or charm to it, place it on your creation and close it. The jump ring is easiest to open and close by holding it on both sides with pliers and mov-
ing it forward and backward. Ribbon can also be used for making jewellery. You can tie a ribbon bow to your bracelet, or instead of using a clasp use ribbon to open and close your necklace by simply tying a piece of ribbon to both ends. Make multi-strand creations. Maximum four strings of tigertail will generally fit through one crimp. Instead of making a bracelet or necklace, try making earrings or a key ring.
Clean up: Clean up the table together once you are finished. Store the leftover beads and supplies in a storage box with compartments for another time.
Educational: Beading is a good activity to stimulate creativity and for developing fine motor skills. It also helps to improve cognitive skills through the planning and designing stages of the project. (How long is my necklace going to be? How many beads do I need?) Making a piece of jewellery can provide a great sense of accomplishment and pride for your kids, which can boost their selfconfidence. This activity is very suitable for a group of people to do together, maybe on a birthday party? In a group kids learn from and are inspired by one another. thephuketnews
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8 DINING
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FRIDAY, 31,2014 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY JANUARY 31,
Dining heaven and hell CURIOUS GOURMAND Antoine Melon am@trisara.com
I
From top: Fried banana; the storeowner prepares the batter.
Fried banana: a Phuket favourite STREET EATS Maythida Nathompon reporter2@classactmedia.co.th
I
f you’re in Phuket Town and in need of a snack, stop by one of the island’s most famous gluay tod (fried banana) stalls on Ranong Road, opposite the main market. The “Chamcha” stall has been selling this delicious food for around 13 years, and has a loyal following of customers. Two different types of banana
are used: either ripe, or almost ripe, bananas. Making fried banana is pretty simple. First the bananas are peeled and sliced, and for the batter, flour sugar, salt and water is mixed together in a bowl. When it’s time to make gluay tod, pour oil into the frying pan and heat it up. Then, dip the bananas in the batter and deep fry the banana until it is golden brown. Then the delicious snack is served. The stall is open from 10.30am to 3.30pm, and one piece of fried banana is B2.
have lived and worked in 11 countries; restaurants and hotels are my business. I am sometimes asked whether or not I have a favourite. An elegant Michelin-starred place in the classic tradition? Or something more post-modern, that reflects the whimsy of a molecular kitchen? But my answer never fails to surprise: the most amazing restaurant I’ve ever visited serves barbecue, not haute cuisine: it was Andres Carne de Res, in Columbia. The meal I had there was breathtaking. I ate beef tenderloin with a piquant Argentine chimichurri sauce, made of parsley, garlic, olive oil, red pepper, vinegar, paprika, thyme, cumin, oregano, bay leaf, and cilantro. Andres is located in Chia, about half an hour outside Bogota; the restaurant runs around a thousand covers. The logistics are staggering. Outside the restaurant there’s a barbecue set up for the drivers and bodyguards. Inside, the restaurant is all glamour, its interior decorated with brocante: antiques, old advertisements, vintage machines. The architecture is fascinating: there are cooking areas on different levels, with Heaven (cielo) on the top floor, for families, and Hell (infierno) on the ground floor, for drinking aguardiente and dancing the rumba. Andres is like different houses put together at different heights, with steps zigzagging from one platform to the other. You don’t know who’s staff, who’s a customer; by the end of the evening, people are dancing on the tables. It is the Columbian Ka Jok See version on a larger scale! I am passionate about barbecues. There is no
Barbecues are popular worldwide, but especially with Australians. Top photo: tatiana.duiker. Above photo: Alisdair better way to be with friends than outdoors on a fine day, chatting while grilling food. I love the flavours of grilled meat and foil-wrapped potatoes roasted among burning coals. But have you ever thought about the origin of the word barbecue? There are two etymologies, though I definitely prefer the first, which would give barbecue a French origin. The word would come from barbe a queue (‘from beard to tail’), referring to a piglet roasted whole. But the explanation preferred by most linguists traces the English word barbecue back through Spanish to the native American Taino tribe’s term barbacoa – a green wood rack whose original meaning was ‘holy fire pit.’ The cooking technique for barbacoa involved digging an earthen trench and placing the meat inside to marinate in its own juices; more leaves and coals are placed over the flesh. Then the whole is set ablaze; the meat takes several hours to smoke-cook. Early visitors to the Caribbean record that venison, bear, fish and pumpkin all were cooked over the barbacoa; one writer even claimed that the original barbecues made human flesh “savoury”. Whatever the word’s origins, the barbecue is now ubiquitous – from Cantonese char siu to the pulled pork of the American South. I still have not figured out why the Australians have mastered the barbecue technique? Antoine Melon is the GM of Trisara.
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DINING GUIDE 9
EUROPEAN
INTERNATIONAL
INDIAN
SEAFOOD
Bodega & Grill
Irish Times
Navrang Mahal
Trisara Seafood
A rustic, homely atmosphere serving North and South Indian dishes, freshly prepared by hereditary chefs and served in brass Katoris in the Royal Mughal style of bygone Emperors of India. Many mouth-watering dishes prepared exactly to your liking. Open from 12.30pm - 3pm and 6.30pm 11pm daily. Karon Sea Sand Resorts & Spa, Karon Beach. Also in Patong Soi Bangla. 076 286 464
The first truly world-class destination seafood dining experience on Phuket. A private entrance leads guests either to an outdoor, beachfront deck or to the cool, relaxed interior. The menu is a balance between local and imported seafood prepared and served in a Mediterranean way. Dinner 7pm-10.30pm. Trisara, 076 310 100.
Bodega & Grill is situated on a picturesque patio by the lagoon. The restaurant serves premium char-grilled steaks and seafood from a wood-fired oven, as well as authentic homemade pastas, risottos and paellas. Bodega’s generous steaks are available in portions of up to 1.2 kilogram. Angsana Laguna Phuket, Cherngtalay; 076 324 101
The only Irish owned and managed Irish Pub in Phuket. A real Irish Pub at the heart of Phuket’s world famous nightlife. In this traditionally styled Irish pub you will find a very warm welcome from the Management and their fantastic staff. All your favourite Irish food and beverages. Jungceylon, Patong Beach; irishtimespub-phuket.com
Ceramic Kitchen Mom Tri’s Villa Royale
ITALIAN
RE KÁ TA Beach Club
Acqua
Enjoy fine dining with panoramic sea views in sensually indulgent setting. Delicious Thai and European creations are served on the open-air terrace. Mom Tri’s Villa Royale is the winner of the Wine Spectators Award of Excellence. Situated on the only road into to Kata Noi Beach. Reservations recommended. momtriphuket .com; 076 333 568
Enjoy a unique dining and shopping experience at Ceramic Kitchen. We offer a wide range of beverages as well as the chance to shop for ceramic after your lunch or dinner, while every Sunday we do a traditional roast all day. We’re also experts for special events, wedding ceremonies, staff parties, birthday parties and more. 185/5 Moo 7, Srisoonthorn Rd., T. Srisoonthorn, Thalang district. 076 272151-2, 082 153 3163
FRENCH
Connoisseurs of fine cuisine can revel in Acqua’s experiential concept. The Acqua restaurant experience promises to deliver only the freshest of ingredients, sourced from only the best producers both local and international. Taste explosions from the portfolio of Chef Alessandro Frau, of both traditional & contemporary are offered. Kalim Bay-Patong, 076 618 127
The beachfront restaurant offers modern innovative cuisine with a strong focus on seafood. In the evening RE KÁ TA transforms with Kata’s magical sunsets and cool sounds along with the delicious drinks and tapas, right on the beach. Open daily 6.30am-11pm; Kata Beach (next to Boathouse); info@rekataphuket.com, rekata phuket.com, 076 330 421
Baan Kalim Restaurant & Seafood KEE Sky Lounge
DaVinci
La Boucherie
La Boucherie is a French steakhouse located on Soi Sansabai in Patong, next to Jungceylon and just a short walk from Bangla road. You’ll find a varied menu of wonderful and reasonably priced food that includes perfectly cooked steaks and dishes from France, all with friendly and efficient service that guarantees you a very pleasant and satisfying experience. Open daily 11am-5am. 076 344 581. laboucherie-asia.com
Serving up an eclectic mix of tasty East-meetsWest tapas, and a colourful new vibe on the rooftop. Enjoy trendy fusion finger food influenced by cooking styles from around the world alongside your main course, or simply relax with Eurasian tapas and sip sundowners from a selection of creative cocktails. Open 5.30pmmidnight, KEE Resort & Spa, 076 335 888
Great food and people you know! Authentic Italian cuisine in Nai Harn area. Three different dining areas, cocktail lounge, children’s play area, Delicatessen, live music....DaVinci is not just a meal, it is an experience of taste, atmosphere and more. Restaurant open daily 5pm-11.30pm; Deli open 11am-6pm; Sunday close; Naiharn 076 289 574. davinciphuket.com
Panache Restaurant
Diavolo
Start your evening with delicious food and fine wine. Pick the perfect spot to take in stunning views of Patong bay, as the evening breeze surrounds you. Relax and enjoy live music to make your evening into that truly wonderful and unforgettable dining experience. Open daily 11am-Midnight. Patong; baankalim.com; baankalimrestaurant@hotmail.com, 076 618 125
THAI Baan Aroi Restaurant
Breeze Restaurant
Phuket’s most exciting new restaurant is situated on the waterfront at Cape Yamu. Chef Cheryl Johnson is providing diners with her innovative modern French interpretations of local ingredients. Open from Tuesday to Saturday for dinner, and from Wednesday to Saturday for lunch. Our menus change frequently. Cape Yamu, Paklok, 081 271 2320
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Try our creative and innovative cuisine. Open daily from 7.00 am till 11.00 pm. Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas, outriggerthailand.com.
The Bistro Restaurant
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Offers authentic Thai cuisine, showcasing traditional local flavours with the freshest, finest and healthiest ingredients. This restaurant is surrounded by a lush tropical garden and provides a warm and friendly atmosphere. Open daily from 11.00 am till 9.00 pm. Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas, outriggerthailand.com.
JAPANESE Talung Thai
Tre by Double Pool Villas
An array of culinary experiences is offered to tempt and intrigue in Tre - the exclusive contemporary French Vietnamese restaurant set among the superb surroundings of the DoublePool Villas. Tre’s signatures dishes include scallops and green apples and tartar with pan-fried foie gras. Banyan Tree Phuket, Cherngtalay; banyantree.com
A menu of modern Mediterranean influences created by Chef Luca to tantalize the senses in a modern ambience. Offering everything from fresh seafood pastas to simple good pizzas. An impressive selection of well priced beverages and stunning sea views complete the experience. Open daily for lunch or dinner. Paresa Resort, Kamala Beach; 076 302 000
Tamarind Restaurant
Find all the Italian traditions in one location, and savor and experience the real Mama style dishes serving only the traditional taste of Italia. The Bistro is at Impiana Resort Patong Phuket. Happy Hours 50 per cent off for selected beverages, soft drinks, juices from 3pm-5pm & 10pm11pm daily. Open 3pm-12am. Impiana Resort Patong Phuket, Patong Beach, 076 340 138.
To complement an already distinctive cuisine, Tamarind is bringing to the island high quality authentic Japanese cuisine, courtesy of Master Chef Shiraishi. Gracing our Japanese menu will be fresh sushi, sashimi, healthy salads, yakitori and tempura and much more. Tamarind is your ultimate destination to savour the best Japanese cuisine in Phuket. Cherngtalay; banyantree.com
The restaurant has a stunning sunset location, offering views of the Andaman Sea. The menu of southern Thai specialties and true local dishes, are not seen on many other restaurant menus in Phuket. Chill with a cocktail from our award wining mixologist at sunset and then relax with authentic Thai cuisine. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Paresa Resort, Kamala; 076 302 000
10 TRAVEL
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, 31,2014 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY JANUARY 31,
Ancient temples, active volcanoes Tim Newton broadcast@classactmedia.co.th
Located an hour’s drive outside of the Indonesian city of Yogyarkarta, The temple of Borobudur is the largest Buddhist structure ever erected in stone.
T
here is a new star rising in the list of quality eco-tourism destinations in Southeast Asia, and you’d never guess where it is. On the southern side of Java in Indonesia is the small city of Yogyarkarta, a tidy, thriving place of about 400,000 residents. (It can also be spelt or pronounced Jogjarkata or Yogyakarta, and is anyway shortened by the locals to Yogya, but let’s move on). The easiest way to describe the weather there is to reverse the weather we get in Phuket. Tropical, with opposite wet and dry seasons. The city has plenty to offer, especially when it comes to fossicking around the local markets, but
it’s outside the city where you can experience both adventure and the potential of spiritual enlightenment from a number of religious brands. Buddhist and Hindu temples, active volcanoes, caving and other ecoadventures are a complete surprise for an otherwise unsurprising small Indonesian city. Close by you also have magnificent beaches, some with volcanic black sand, others pure white. Plenty of surprises to be sure, but let’s instead head to Indonesia’s most visited attraction, Borobudur, about an hour’s drive from the city. The temple of Borobudur is the largest Buddhist structure ever erected in stone. The actual structure, based on seven platforms, takes up a footprint of 130m by 130m and reaches 35m into the sky.
Built in the 9th Century, at a time when the local Hindu Kingdoms were being influenced by Buddhism (this is long before the influence of Islam came to Indonesia), Borobadur survives, despite being ransacked by locals, treasure hunters and passing civilisations. The nearby volcanoes haven’t helped with preservation through their tendency to dump ash onto the structure any time they decide to erupt. The stairs are steep, but checking out the intricate carvings as you stop at the seven terraces give you a moment to catch your breath. It had its most recent major makeover in 1975, a joint effort by the Indonesian government and UNESCO. Whilst many other ancient religious structures around the world maintain
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TRAVEL 11
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
some control over the tourist numbers and full access to the attraction, there are no such controls at Borobudur. But if one enormous, ancient temple isn’t enough for you, there’s another enormous, ancient temple not too far away. This time from an earlier Hindu era. Only an hour’s drive away from Borobudur, but constructed in an entirely different design and structure, Prambanan is equally fascinating to wander around. In both cases, a local guide will go through the intricate histories and try and explain what the builders of these edifices were trying to achieve. Nearby the Prambanan Temple complex is a nightly cultural dance show – when the weather is okay it’s performed outdoors with the temples as the backdrop; when the rain comes along they have a purpose-built theatre for the show. Make sure you grab a copy of the free explanation of the performance, available in multiple languages, otherwise all the colour and movement may leave you bewildered. Indonesia is one of the most active seismic regions in the world and not far out of Yogyakarta you can touch and feel a real active volcano.
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If you’re wondering where all the old army jeeps from WWII ended up, I think you’ll find most of them at the base of the Merapati volcano with enthusiastic stunt drivers awaiting. Being a passenger in the jeeps is like riding a roller coaster in the middle of an earthquake. We are issued with dust masks as the jeeps drive through the remains of the volcanic dust that spewed from the active crater only four years ago. Four years ago? And we are told it erupts every four years! There’s plenty to see and the scen-
ery is spectacular if the clouds decide to clear. The ride down is just as rough though, and the guides are entertained by watching us grimly hang on pretending we’re enjoying ourselves. Enough adventure. Let’s go shopping. Yogyakarta has some spectacular markets, especially if you’re after local trinkets, batik and budget fashion. Coming from Thailand it’s hard to be impressed, but you will really enjoy the Maliobora Street market. It must be a good kilometre long, the shopping on one side, local street food on the other. You simply won’t get
through it all in a night. If you like batik you’ve come to the right place with Yogyakarta proudly displaying a rich history in quality batik. Whilst the local craft may have gone out of fashion for a few years, there is a new generation rediscovering the beauty and variety in Javanese batik. Watching the painstaking artistry of authentic batik production explains the high price. One piece of the real thing can take two or three weeks to produce. Whatever type of trip you’re looking for – be it nature, culture, shopping, age-old Hindu temples or soon-toerupt volcanoes – this exciting corner of Indonesia seemingly has it all. You can get to Yogyakarta easily with Silk Air flying through Singapore (only an hour’s transit at Changi) three times a week. Tim stayed at one of the few four star properties, The Grand Tjokro. Member of ASEAN do not need a visa, while other countries can get a visa on arrival which costs B1,000. Check out a video report of Tim’s visit to Yogyakarta at thephuketnews.com/tv
12 TECHNOLOGY IN BRIEF Google acquires AI firm for US$400M Search g ia nt G oogle bought artificial intelligence company DeepMind last week for US$400 million (B13 billion) in what reports indicate is largely a talent acquisition. DeepMind was founded in 2011 by games prodigy and neuroscientist Demis Hassabis, as well as Shane Legg and Mustafa Suleyman, and is based in London. While the company has no official products, experts say that DeepMind has been developing a variety of approaches to AI – through generalpurpose learning algorithms – in the hopes of developing commercial applications in e-commerce and games.
Thai gamers get mobile
Sasiwimon Boonruang
Preecha pointed out that the top-ranking free download games are casual ones with a high number of players, but the top grossing games are the hardcore games. That means serious gamers have entered the mobile platform.
South Korea spending big for nation’s 5G The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology in South Korea announced last week that they will invest US$1.5 billion (B49.3 billion) to develop 5G technology for commercial use by 2020. The technology would be 1,000 times faster than 4G LTE and allow feature films to be downloaded in one second. The country is also planning on building new key features for 5G, including hologram transmission and Ultra-HD streaming. The ministry is cooperating with telecom operators SK Telecom and Korea Telecom, as well as tech giants Samsung and LG.
A
t one point or another, most people have played computer games. The prevalence of mobile devices has boosted the popularity of games and now the industry has overtaken all other kinds of digital content in terms of value. Games have evolved from PC LAN to PC online platforms, thanks to the availability of broadband networks. The growth of MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing game) – when a large number of people play the same game from different places around the world simultaneously – has brought about many changes in web technology. In the past, creating a good game required a huge investment, but with web technology, developers can save a great deal of costs. The cost of game development has become cheaper and there are more new games offered to the market. The paradigm shift of games was when mobile phones became ubiquitous, according to Preecha Praipattarakul, CEO of MOL AccessPortal. The turning point came when Facebook created a platform enabling web or social games to grow. The majority of mobile games were initially casual ones that serviced the mass market, but today more hardcore games are available on mobile with broadband network pervasiveness. Some games such as Call Of Duty – and other first- and third-person shooter games – can be played on computers or smartphones because the games sync to the same database. Command And Conquer is another good example of a very popular online game that is now available on mobile. Once the 3G network took off, the market opened up. People can now play games anywhere, including while they’re travelling. Preecha pointed out that the top-ranking free download games are casual ones with a high number of players, but the top grossing games are the hardcore games. That means serious gamers have entered the mobile platform. Preecha also said that while the revenue from paid apps is declining, revenue from freemium (free to play, but sales are made when players want special tools in the game) mobile apps is growing. People don’t like to pay for apps if they have not tried them, but with freemium, they can try the game with free of charge and if they like it, they will pay. Top grossing games include Kungfu House, Hay Day and Clash Of Clans. Kungfu House is a turnbased game developed in China. The developer uses popular characters from Chinese culture with a hu-
Landmark patent deal for Google, Samsung Google and Samsung have entered a 10-year patent deal that covers all current and future technology patents. Experts say the deal is largely designed to help protect both companies against patentinfringement allegations and lawsuits, particularly from Apple. “By working together on agreements like this, companies can reduce the potential for litigation and focus instead on innovation,” said Allen Lo, deputy general counsel for patents at Google.
FRIDAY, 31,2014 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY JANUARY 31,
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
MOL Let’s Play at Bitec drew hundreds of gamers. Photo: Bangkok Post
A gamer plays Call of Duty: Black Ops. Photo: Major Nelson morous storyline and a delicate, lovely style. Candy Crush Saga, a strategy game in style of Bejewelled and Tetris, is one of the top grossers. People pay because they almost win, and they feel handing over money helps their game. “The developers are smart as they design the game attracting players willing to pay, and this is what the Thai developers must learn from,” said the CEO. MOL will soon take Thai developers into the foreign market. Preecha pointed to a group who created Cybermon, a Facebook pet-growing game. The monsters have different looks depending on the breeding by players, so they are unique. The game was created for the Thai market, but the most popular user country is Brazil, followed by the US and the Philippines, while Thailand is fourth. Going abroad depends on the readiness of the developers – they have to be stable in Thailand first. “The game sells items and goals, so with the freemium model, it can be a business. Running on the mobile platform is also a key factor – if they offer the game on mobile, the number of users will grow,” he said, adding that there are several games on the global market that were developed by Thais, but most are paid games such as Candy Melon. This year mobile games will increase and the growth is predicted to be faster than music streaming and new service subscriptions such as e-books. In the world of digital goods, gaming is the largest segment, accounting for some B5 billion, and it’s expected to grow by 20 per cent this year because of organic growth and existing users going mobile. Kanjana Rodchareon, 20, is one of many gamers who visited MOL Let’s Play recently at Bitec to buy the code for special items. She has played online games for more than five years and there she was in a long queue buying special items for Point Blank, an online first-person shooter. Kanjana paid B2,500 for the code not available on the web. “The graphic design of Point Blank is superb and I am able to choose my own set of skills to use in the game, depending on the role I play and the weapons I use,” she said. Nat Boonpiturak, a university student, plays online after class almost every day. The multiplayer online battle arena Heroes Of Newerth is his favourite, which he always plays with his brother. “My younger brother is smarter in games than me and he knows any kind of game. I have never bought any item because I cannot earn money by myself yet. I just play games for fun,” he said. Bangkok Post
TOP MOBILE APPS THIS WEEK
TOP CONSOLE GAMES THIS WEEK:
Make Me Cash (Vending) Confide (Private communications)
1
Call of Duty: Ghosts
Xbox 360, PS3
6
Just Dance 2014
Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U
1
2
Fifa 14
Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, Vita
7
Battlefield 4 (18+)
Xbox 360, PS3, PC
2
3
Grand Theft Auto V (18+)
Xbox 360, PS3
8
Pokemon X & Y
3DS
3
Readmill (eBook Reader)
Android
4
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag (18+)
Xbox 360, PS3
9
Disney Infinity
Xbox 360, Wii, PS3, Wii U
4
Receipts (Organisation)
Android
5
Lego Marvel Super Heroes
Xbox 360, PS3, 3DS, Wii
10 Puzzle & Dragons Z
3DS
5
Joe Danger Infinity (Game)
iOS
iOS, Android iOS, Android
thephuketnews
FILM 13
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
One win to rule them all J.P. Mestanza editor2@classactmedia.co.th
N
Days ago I was with my family, in my home. Now you’re telling me Oscar Odds: all that’s lost? ‘Tell American Hustle This film straddles the line no one who I am,’ between 1970’s cool and sleaze that’s the way to with a story that is partly based survive? Well, I don’t on a true story. Also, it has Jennifer “Katniss” Lawrence want to survive. I – that should be enough. Despite its heavy want to live! takeaways from Goodfellas (sped-up action, -Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor) 12 Years a Slave
multiple narrators, slow motion walks, and non-linear timeline), American Hustle would need a bit more than extra lip-gloss and corruption to win the coveted baldie.
12 Years a Slave
Oscar Odds: Easily the frontrunner for the award, 12 Years a Slave has everything the Academy loves about film: based on a true story, with powerful acting, historical accuracy, and white guilt. It’s a powerful glimpse into history with a narrative that is both compelling, heartbreaking, but ultimately uplifting. If anything, British star Chiwete Ejiofor is a shoein for Best Actor, a well-deserved honour.
Gravity
(Clockwise from top) Oscar contenders 12 Years a Slave; Gravity; Dallas Buyer’s Club; Philomena.
Oscar Odds: After watching 30 minutes of Gravity, one starts to feel claustrophobic and alone – even in a cinema surrounded by people. This is a story that consumes audiences, to the point where even Sandra Bullock feels bad for us. Alfonso Cuaron’s masterpiece, with long shots and organic pacing, is simple – and that’s exactly why it should win. A space film featuring brilliant and courageous astronauts that are left at the mercy of the cosmos – it highlights a primal human emotion and covers all levels of natural fear.
SFX Coliseum Phuket (Central Festival)
12 Years a Slave (E) Captain Phillips (E) I, Frankenstein (3D/T) I, Frankenstein (E) I, Frankenstein (G/E) I, Frankenstein (T) Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit (E) Tee Sam Khuen Sam (3D/T)
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Jonze has created a timeless film that, for all its quirks, is a perfect allegory for our time.
ominations for the 86th Academy Awards were announced last week, with a total of nine films vying for the most prestigious award in world cinema: Best Picture. This year is especially interesting after both 12 Years a Slave and Gravity tied at the Golden Globes – usually an indicator for the Oscar – for the same category. Oscar is a fickle chap, however, and will not stand for draws. Let us take a look at the field.
12:45, 18:15 15:30, 21:00 12:00, 14:05, 16:10, 18:15, 20:20, 22:25 11:30, 13:35, 15:40, 17:45, 19:50, 21:55 12:30, 14:35, 16:40, 18:45, 20:50 11:00, 13:05, 15:10, 17:15, 19:20, 21:25 12:10, 14:25, 16:45, 19:00, 21:15 12:25, 14:40, 17:00, 19:15, 21:30
Nebraska
Dallas Buyers Club
Oscar Odds: Dallas Buyer’s Club has just as much of a chance to win as Gravity and 12 Years with it’s story of AIDS patients in the US being able to receive proper, yet unapproved, medication from Mexico in the mid-1980’s. Matthew McConaughey’s performance is stellar and the fact that he essentially plays a drug mule and distributor adds to the film’s “underground” sensibilities. From transgender business partners to the disparities in healthcare treatment, this is a film with something to say and parallels problems that continue to this day.
Captain Phillips
Oscar Odds: A solid film that tells a true story about relatively recent events with a very strong cast. Captain Phillips could win Best Sound Mixing, and Best Adapted Screenplay – but it will not win Best Picture. The list of contenders is far too strong for a film that, despite featuring Tom Hanks on top of his game, does little in form of innovative storytelling and intrigue in comparison with the other nominees.
Her
Oscar Odds:
An original film with exceptional writing and a story that plays on the potential of technology, Her brings together seemingly unrelated themes under the guise of a love story, albeit a tragic one. Massively underrated, Her deserved this nomination simply for its story. Scarlet Johanssen was passed over for a Best Actress nod as she has zero screen time, although her voice is in every scene. Director Spike
Shot in black and white, Nebraska is a tale of a man in the twilight of his life coming to grips with his past under the guise of an innocuous lottery ticket. His family, particularly his two sons, learn more about their father while the audience sits there enthralled at a simple plot that produces gushy moments. Solid movie making that is surprisingly entertaining yet most likely will not win.
The Wolf of Wall Street
Oscar Odds:
The most hedonistic of this year’s Best Picture crop, The Wolf of Wall Street is Scorsese at his best with a cast that delivers. Based on a true story, this film is a fun ride that delivers a moral tinge once the audience peels back the onion. Wolf could win, but it’s Scorsese and his luck at the Academy Awards isn’t great . Still, this wouldn’t be an upset win.
Philomena
Oscar Odds:
You get comedy and slight suspense in Philomena, rare for a film that deals with the topic of forced adoption. For how dark the subject matter is, Steve Coogan’s and Judi Dench’s characters are so incredibly positive that audiences are pulled in for the entire 95 minutes. The clash of generations mark much of the film’s comedy, but it’s the drama and heartbreaking story that moves things along.
SFC Jungceylon Phuket (Patong) 12 Years a Slave (E) Captain Phillips (E) Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (3D/E) I, Frankenstein (3D/E) I, Frankenstein (E) Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit (E) Tee Sam Khuen Sam (3D/T)
Oscar Odds:
12:40, 15:30, 21:15 18:20 12:25, 16:45, 18:50 12:50, 14:55, 17:00, 19:05, 21:10 11:50, 13:55, 16:00, 18:05, 20:10, 22:15 12:30, 14:45, 17:00, 19:15, 21:30 14:30, 21:00
As some movies and movie times change every Thursday morning, after The Phuket News has gone to press, the accuracy of the following information cannot be guaranteed. For up-to-date information, visit sfcinemacity.com, or call the cinemas directly: SFX Coliseum Phuket 076-209000 and SFC Jungceylon Phuket 076-600-555.
14 ENTERTAINMENT
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, 31,2014 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY JANUARY 31,
Masquerading for charity Left: Students having swim lessons at Thanyapura; enjoying a fun time off Kamala Beach.
T
he Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation (PHBGTU) will hold its Masquerade Party fundraiser at the Pullman Phuket Arcadia on Naithon Beach on Saturday evening (February 8), with all money raised going to helping children on Phuket. Guests will enjoy a five course Venetian-style banquet, cocktails and free flow beverages with dozens of prizes up for grabs at the auction and raffle. Meanwhile over at the foundation, every Saturday the students who live full time at Kamala School because their families are not able to care for them are taken swimming by the foundation’s English teachers and helpers. Saturday mornings are always an early start. The mini bus arrives at Kamala from Thanyapura at 8am, picks up 12 excited children and their English teacher and drives them to the Olympicsized pool where they have an hour long
lesson with Thanyapura swimming instructors. The fun continues later in the day as on Saturday afternoons the foundation’s English teachers and helpers gather at the school again and take up to 20 students to Kamala beach for a fun couple
of hours in the ocean. The students are not allowed out of the school grounds on their own, so they are always excited as this is often their only opportunity to go swimming or have fun on the beach. Just as the ability to be able to swim could one day save one of these children’s
lives, the ability to speak English will enable them to have a vastly different future. Director of Operations, Tina Hall, said, “The foundation teaches English language classes to over 1,000 students in three schools. It also runs VOTE, a Vocational Opportunities Through English programme, where Thai role models talk to the students about the importance of being able to speak English and how it greatly increases their meaningful employment opportunities. “After school during the week there is also Coconut Club; where children who live at the school can drop in to the club to play sports, cook or work on arts and crafts projects while practising their English with teachers and helpers. We couldn’t do any of this without the help of so many kind people on Phuket who generously come and lend a hand.” This event is sponsored by Class Act Media, for more information, visit the website: phukethasbeengood tous.org
Shanghai Love Story comes to Central
A
sia’s most popular classic period drama is coming to Phuket with an all-star cast of Thailand’s hottest celebrities for a free performance at the Grand Hall at Central Festival Phuket tomorrow (Saturday, February 1). All are invited to celebrate the 1920s style Chinese New Year and Valentine’s
stage show Shanghai Love Story, starring “Aun” Witthaya Wasukraipaisarn, “Ja” Natta Wiranut, “JJ” Chakrit Kanokpojjananonand, and Nirut Sirichanya. The show starts at 4pm and admission is free for this one-night performance based on the classic 1980 Hong Kong period television drama The Bund, which
portrayed the Orient of the East. Dress for the occasion in traditional Chinese (Qipao) and Western (Gatsby) style. For more information and to reserve the best seats in the house contact the marketing department at Central Festival Phuket. Email: marketingpf@central.co.th. Tel: 089 294 0516, 081 747 5753.
thephuketnews
16 ISLAND SCENE
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, 31,2014 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY JANUARY 31,
HELPING THE COMMUNITY The Rotary Club of Patong Beach and Montes restaurant hosted a fundraising event on January 25 to raise money for the Moken Sea Gypsy village on Koh Lao. Photos: Denis Carpenter.
Vikram Singh and Sonu Kapoor, owners of Alice in Wonderland organisers Events International.
ALICE COMES TO TOWN Events International hosted the Alice in Wonderland show on January 25 and 26 at the Simon Star Theatre in Phuket Town.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Mark Ashman, GM of The Village Coconut Island, and his wife On celebrated the birthday of their daughter Olivia, who just turned three. The party was held at the Alan Cooke Ground in Thalang. thephuketnews
ISLAND SCENE 17
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
PHUKET OLD TOWN FESTIVAL LAUNCHED On January 27, a press conference was held at Chaloem Prakiat 72th Queen Sirikit Park in Phuket Town to announce the 15th Phuket Chinese New Year Day and Old Phuket Town Festival.
Local dignitaries at the launch of the Old Town Festival. From left: A Phuket Old Town Community representative; Mr Kawee Tansukatanon, President of Old Phuket Foundation; Mr Tawichart Intararit, Chief of the Phuket Provincial Cultural Office (PPCO); Miss Wanprapa Suksomboon, Deputy Director of TAT Phuket; Ms Somjai Suwansupana, Mayor of Phuket; Mr Sanit Phonpattapee, Director of Phuket Provincial Agricultural Extension Office; a Peranakan Association representative; Mr Theerawut Sritularak, President of the Jui Tui Tao Bo Keng Shrine.
(Left) Thaan Kaewkong and (far right) Narongchai Roipila.
DANISH DELIGHT AT MOM TRI’S VR Mom Tris Villa Royale held a special dinner on January 25 featuring dishes by guest Danish Chef Per Hallundbaek (top right), alongside Chefs Darren and Sura.
STEAK OUT IN PATONG Andaman Wine Club held a tasting of South American beverages at Rodizio Brazil Steakhouse Phuket on January 21. Guests enjoyed fine food and drink on the evening.
Kittikarn Karndit (centre) and Cat Saensing (far right).
LOCAL SHOW SIAM NIRAMIT WELCOMES CHINESE MEDIA TO PHUKET Siam Niramit Phuket’s Director of Sales Kessara Keeraarat and the team welcomed a media group from Chongqing, China, on January 17. @thephuketnews
18 EVENTS
List your event at thephuketnews.com
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, 31,2014 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY JANUARY 31, RBFC Thailand 2014 Classic Sport Fishing Tournament Offshore The Similan Islands
25 th
27 th February 2014
Proudly organised by the Rawai Beach Fishing Club, (RBFC) Phuket, Thailand.
Huge cash and other prizes to be won!!
6 – 12 February 2014 at Grand Hall 1st Floor Central Festival Phuket
57 hours of non -stop fishing!
Houses and Condominiums
Huge media coverage!
Special : x 2 promotion for event projects
Book properties in the exhibition
to win Tour Package
Phuket – Korea Many more great prizes to win!
For further details please contact Warren Crowe or Andy Bright info@rawaibeachfishingclub.co m Warren tel: +66 (0) 812604291 Andy tel: +66 (0) 862739948 Website: www.rawaibeachfishingclub.com
Prizes include fishing trips, tackle, limited edition prints, and much more!
Rawai Beach Fishing Club is an official Sponsor Club of the International Game Fishing Association. RBFC supports recreational fishing
FRIDAY JANUARY 31
Try out our delicious naans, mutton vindaloo, chicken tandoori, dal makhini, butter chicken, samosas, lassis and many more mouth-watering dishes. For only 499/- nett and special reduced prices on drinks.
Welcome the Year of the Horse On the 31st of January, following the second new moon after the winter solstice, we celebrate the New Year of the Horse. To Chinese people, the horse stands for happiness, endowed with the vivacity, magnetic attraction and elegance of a thorough bred animal. Its dynamic spirit is forever active and promises a year full of surprises and twists. Join us at Eastland on Friday the 31st of January from 6.30 pm to welcome the Year of the Horse. Lucky cocktail followed by Asian Street Food Buffet, Dragon dance & traditional entertainment at 1,888 THB net per person. Contact: Simona T: 076 317 600, rm.phuket@thepavilionsresorts.com.
KARON’S ONLY LIVE BLUES VENUE
Live Music and BBQ in an “Outback Aussie Bar” setting. Phuket’s best Home Made Flame Grilled Aussie Burgers, Aussie Steak special’s, sizzling BBQ Ribs, Spit Roast Kebabs, Red Snapper Fish n Chips, Live Sports shown on 2 Big Screen LED TV’S, Free Pool Table, and More! Relax in an open air family friendly atmosphere with friendly staff, Great Food and frosty cold ones on ice from Australia & Thailand. Featuring “Moody Blues” Live on SUN, WED AND FRI From 9pm till Late at “Phuket’s House of the Blues - ROADHOUSE!”.
Pool Competition at Expat Hotel
Pool Competition at 9pm. Expat Sports Bar, Soi Taipan, Patong. expatsportsbar.com.
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 2
boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Only B320 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See otools-phuket.com.
Sunday Roast Pork@Expat Hotel
Sunday Roast Pork or Beef Dinner Every Sunday 2pm onwards Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong B290. See www.expathotel.com.
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 1
MONDAY FEBRUARY 3 Sunday Brunch at Sails, Hilton The Good Shepherd Merchandise Shop Open Every Wednesdays and Saturdays. Plaza Del Mar, Laguna (Behind Bake). Time: 10am to 1pm every Wednesday and 9am to noon every Saturday. We have a wide and wonderful selection of handicrafts such as toys, greeting cards, ornaments, lanterns, bags, purses and many more. You can also find exquisite arts and craft created by local residents. Pre-loved items include books, clothes and toys. Handicraft items are made by the disadvantaged members of society that The Good Shepherd strives to empower. All proceeds go directly to The Good Shepherd mission. See thegoodshepherd.info.
Suk Singpatong + Sitnumnoi It will happen every Saturday night throughout the year. Num Noi Singpatong, the head trainer and owner of Singpatong + Sitnumnoi Gym in Patong Beach, will be launching an elite fight series in Patong Boxing Stadium (Sai Nam Yen). Visit the official website at www.patong boxingstadium.com.
Enjoy our lavish international buffet with friends and family each sunday at Sails! Our live band sets the mood for a relaxing afternoon with delicious food, live cooking stations, refreshing drinks and good company. Balloon artists entertain the little ones with face painting and kid activities. 12pm - 3 pm. B1,400++ per adult, B700++ per child (Ages 5-12). 076 396 433.
Thai market night
Live Seafood & Jazz Sunday Brunch at Banyan Tree Join Banyan Tree’s indulgent LIVE Seafood Sunday brunch featuring lots of LIVE Canadian Lobsters, Tiger prawns, freshly shucked Oysters, Wagyu rump and Foie Gras. Meander from one live cooking station to the next, and don’t forget to leave room for cheese and dessert. With live Jazz music and a kids club, starting at B2,500++ per person including free flow of selected beverages. Advance bookings are highly recommended. Contact 076 372 400. fb-phuket@banyantree.com.
Experience an authentic taste of Thailand and simple a wide variety of dishes prepared fresh for you. Market night price is weight of chosen items every Monday at Ban Aroi from 6.30 - 9.00 pm. For bookings, please call Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas on 076 336 900 # 781.
BBQ All You Can Eat at Shakers
Mondays and Thursdays. BBQ all you can eat: pork, chicken, beef, prawns, fish and squid with salad buffet, cold and hot sauces, garlic bread, baked potatoes, potato salad and more for B325 per person. 7pm-11pm. Located in Patong on Rat-U-Tit 200 Pee Road next to Hotel Mercure.
daily event updates on Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach
Indian Curry Night on Fridays Come to Navrang Mahal in Karon Sea Sands Resort & Spa for an authentic Indian Feast every Friday in Karon Beach.
& craft stalls and enjoy fresh seafood and local delights, accompanied by authentic Thai Khim performances. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday starting 18:00, for THB 1,250 NET only. Baan Talay is the Thai signature restaurant of Angsana Laguna Phuket and situated on Bang Tao Beach behind XANA Beach Club. Angsana Laguna Phuket - Bang Tao Bay , Email : fbcoordinator-lagunaphuket@angsana.com , 076 324 101.
4 Regions of Thailand Market Stroll through a lively Thai Market with art
Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice of either roast beef, chicken, loin of pork or leg of lamb served with roast and thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014 FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
TUESDAY FEBRUARY 4
Half Chicken Spit Roast Tuesdays and Saturdays: Half chicken spit roast with french fries, salad buffet, potato salad & gravy sauce for B225 per person. 7pm-11pm. Located in Patong on Rat-U-Tit 200 Pee Road next to Hotel Mercure.
EVENTS 19
List your event at thephuketnews.com
From 6 – 12 February 2014 at Grand Hall 1st Floor, Central Festival Phuket. With more than 20 projects of proper in Phuket, you will get the best offers and a chance to win Phuket - Korea tour package. For more info visit phuketrealestate.or.th or call 087-382-3838.
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 8
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 14
Valentine's Day @Air Rooftop The perfect spot you are looking to share with special person on a romantic poolside setting with soft candles,stars on the horizon and beautiful tunes.Our chef pulled out all the stops to create mouthwatering dishes served in an elaborate 4 courses menu with one glass of red wine each and red rose for ladies.Where only you can find a special price for a very special person. start 18.30-22.00 hrs.
WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 5
from the beautiful Similan Islands. Renowned as Thailand’s ‘premium sport fishing area’ some 70 miles N/West of Chalong Bay, Phuket. The Prize monies offered are the largest in Asia. The boats normally cruise up the day before. Making for a very enjoyable 4 days in one of Thailand’s most sought after destinations. There is still a number of game fishing boats available, to join the tournament or get information contact info@rawaibeachfishingclub.com.
SATURDAY MARCH 8
MIAMI VICE PARTY BBQ Steak night
Enjoy flame-grilled steak, cooked to perfection and served with fresh selections from our buffet BBQ night THB 1,190++ per person. Free children under 7 and half price for 7 to 12 yrs old every Wednesday at Panache from 6.30 to 10.00 pm. For bookings, please call Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas on 076 336 900 # 781.
A night of 80s glamour, tropical cocktails and Miami Vice mash ups. Miami Vice is the US cop series that drew heavily upon 1980s New Wave culture and music. It is recognised as one of the most influential television series of all time. Entry is free and those dressing up will receive a complimentary drink voucher. 076 324 101.
Romance in Paradise
BBQ Ribs All You Can Eat Wednesdays and Fridays. BBQ ribs all you can eat with salad buffet and potato salad for B295 per person. 7pm-11pm. Located in Patong on Rat-U-Tit 200 Pee Road next to Hotel Mercure.
THUR FEB 6 - WED FEB 12
Phuket Real Estate Show 2014 Phuket Real Estate Show 2014 is coming!
Thanyapura Superkidz
Masquerade Party Phuket Has Been Good To Us is proud to present “Masquerade Party”. Enjoy a carnival evening with delicious Venetian inspired 5 course banquet, free flow, entertainment and dancing, at Pullman Phuket Arcadia, Naithon Beach from 7 pm. till late. Dress with “Magnificent Masks”. Donation 3,000THB to enjoy the moment. For booking or more info contact Phuket Has Been Good To Us on 076 278 146 or info@ phukethasbeengoodtous.org.
Create a truly memorable Valentine’s Day with your loved one and indulge in a private 5-course dinner with fresh oysters, caviar, foie gras, Phuket lobster and grilled seafood. THB15,000++ per couple with a special bottle of sparkling. Or enjoy a fantastic BBQ buffet dinner with a selection of meats, local seafood grilled to order, gourmet dishes and delicious desserts at Seasonal Tastes for THB1,400++ per person on 14 February 6:30pm – 10:30pm. Call 076 335 600 visit westinsiraybay.com/ dining for more information.
TUE FEB 25 - THU FEB 27 RBFC Thailand 2014 Classic Sport Fishing Tournament Offshore The Similan Islands
25 th
27 th February 2014
Proudly organised by the Rawai Beach Fishing Club, (RBFC) Phuket, Thailand.
Huge cash and other prizes to be won!! RBFC THAILAND 2014
“Classic” Sport Fishing Tournament will be held between 25 - 27th February “offshore” 57 hours of non -stop fishing!
Huge media coverage!
For further details please contact Warren Crowe or Andy Bright info@rawaibeachfishingclub.co m Warren tel: +66 (0) 812604291 Andy tel: +66 (0) 862739948 Website: www.rawaibeachfishingclub.com
@thephuketnews
Prizes include fishing trips, tackle, limited edition prints, and much more!
Rawai Beach Fishing Club is an official Sponsor Club of the International Game Fishing Association. RBFC supports recreational fishing
The Thanyapura SUPERKIDZ is coming back for Triathlon (swim + bike + run) on 8th March 2014. We are dedicated to providing more excitement and competition for those athletes who are based in Asia, love the sport of triathlon, and have the heart to race and pursue achievement. Age group from 6-18 years old and adult. The race will be started at 8.00 am. Entry fee 1,500THB for individual and Team. For Thanyapura members is 1,200THB for individual and Team. To register call 076-336000 or sportcamp@thanyapura.com . Visit thanyapura. com for more information.
EVERY DAY
Phuket Wake Park The place for outdoor activities for the whole family. Ring winch for water skiing and wake-boarding. Reversible winch and coaching services for beginners. Restaurant, swimming pool, massage, fitness equipment and mini-hotel with 28 rooms. All this in a Phuket Wake Park! Welcome from 7:30 to 22:00 every day.
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
20 TIME OUT
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
This week in history
GOT YOUR ISLAND VIEW NUMBER
26,000
Number of hours the average person spends in the toilet during their lifetime.
16,500
Approximate extra annual cost (in Baht) of eating healthy food against unhealthy food.
1,114
Number of years since Sean’s Bar in Athlone, Ireland, the world’s oldest bar, first opened its doors.
21
The number of cigarettes a day you would have to smoke to emulate the lung effects of breathing the air in Beijing.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
■■ January 31, 1606
Guy Fawkes – model for the “white mask” used by protesters – is executed for treason. ■■ February 1, 1979 Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini returns to Iran after the Shah of Persia flees the country. ■■ February 2, 1989 The last Soviet armoured column leaves Kabul as the USSR admits defeat and pulls out of Afghanistan. ■■ February 3, 1916 A fire that starts in a wastebasket destroys the Parliament building in Ottowa, Canada. ■■ February 4, 2004 Social networking site Facebook is launched by Mark Zuckerberg. ■■ February 5, 1909 Belgian chemist Leo Baekeland announces the creation of Bakelite, the world’s first synthetic plastic. ■■ February 6, 1942 The United Kingdom declares Dragons at play in the sky: The highly decorated roof of the century-old Shrine of Serene Light between Thalang Rd and war on Thailand after the Phang Nga Rd in old Phuket Town. Photo: James Fergus government in Bangkok sides with Japan in World War II. Have a Phuket photo to share? Email it with caption to editor@classactmedia.co.th Source: Wikipedia
Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 49. Nigerian city 51. ___ lily 1. 60’s do 52. Drench 5. Hand-warmer 55. Go over 9. Guitar stroke 58. Rial spender 14. Surf sound 59. Trollope’s “Lady 15. Polo grounds? ___” 16. Anatomical fold 60. Guitarist Lofgren 17. Beyond the regular 61. Gozo Island is part of it schedule 62. Drink garnish 20. Village in Belgium 63. Keep in 21. Spark 22. Fingers Down 23. Frightening: var. 1. It can be gray 24. Recipe abbr. 2. “___ Brown” 25. Engenders (1974 film) 28. Feet, slangily 3. Have status 32. Entertained, in a 4. ”Catch-22” pilot way 5. Functionaries 33. Be human 6. Bad loan 34. Omitted 7. Concern 35. In a remarkable 8. Word with cry or manner side 40. Tune 9. Directed skyward 41. It can be flipped 10. Fluffs up 42. Tangle 11. Venom 43. Oolong holder 12. Wood sorrels 46. Don Juans 13. Card game 47. Till fill 18. Menu 48. King or queen, e.g. 19. Natural Across
SUDOKU
Solutions to last week’s puzzles:
Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1. RAdio Detection And Ranging; 2. Bung Kan; 3. Switzerland; 4. Ireland. It’s a cheese; 5. Four.
1. What is the origin of the word “radar”? 2. Which was the 77th Thai province to be declared? 3. In which country would you find Romansch spoken? 4. Where could you eat Smoked Gubbeen? And what is it? 5. How many minims are there in a breve? Answers at the foot of the page.
23. It has a big mouth 24. Donut-shaped surfaces 25. ___ suit 26. Mischief-maker 27. Bone cavities 28. Pendergrass 29. With gelidity 30. Noted blind mathematician 31. Eye sores 36. Heir, sometimes 37. Purges 38. Bookseller 39. Certain network 44. Penetrating 45. Lack of oxygen 46. ”All clear!” is one 48. Saint-Germain’s river 49. Myrtle family plant 50. Stage of development 51. Compos mentis 52. Hissy fit 53. Look like a creep 54. Call to attention 55. Neighbor of Bulg. 56. Bad-mouth 57. Pulls
thephuketnews
CLASSIFIEDS 17
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
Property PROPERTY FOR RENT
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FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @thephuketnews
Patong shophouse for Rent: Patong 2Shophouse low rent.Can make business,also very good location for restaurant and massage.2nd floor fully furnished as 2 bedroom apartment w 2baths.Includes furniture.Big kitchen and living area. Sidd , Email : janum0012@hotmail.com, 084 189 7696.
ACG Cricket Ground:
5 Rai raw land behind ACG clubhouse on long lease for compatible sporting facility. alan@acgphuket.com.
Rawai Pool Villa For Sale: The Cour tyard:
Upper f loor 10 m showroom frontage floor area 10 0 s m w i t h a i r/c o n s . C o nt a c t Khun Siriporn 081 691 0213, siriporn@islandfurni ture-phuket.com, www.thecourtyard-phuket.com.
Amazing sea view pool villa: 4 bed,4 bath,beautifully furnished villa, great ocean views. Cape Yamu area, only 10 mins from BIS/PIA. Large pool, garden, very private estate. 80000/ mth. 086 279 6283; kdesmond59@ yahoo.co.uk.
NEW House For Sale: 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom with Of f street parking in small QUIET Boutique Estate behind Red Mountain Golf Course. Full Chanote Title Contact Gim English/Thai Ph 081-6065772 for an Inspection !! B3.1 Million, Sabai Village Kathu, rgsecurity@bigpond.com
Kalim Sea View, Freehold Condo for Sale/Rent: B11.9 M 2 min walk to beach, big balcony & sunset view, 180 Sqm, 2 Ensuite Bed rooms, big living space. 089 617 2312, PhuketAREA.com - Search V146.
House for rent in Karon: Fully furnished 2 bedroom house with ever y thing in the hear t of Karon. Long term rental only Minimum 6 months. Walking distance to shops, beach & restaurants. 300 m from Hilton hotel. Call on 0806905248 or email on lil@ladolcevitare.com.au, Price : 25000 per month, Lillian Dinic , Address : 363/6 Patak Road Karon, Email : lil@ladolcevitare.com.au, 080 690 5248.
House for rent:
Bougainvillea Pool Villa Phuket: Discover the happiness Seaview Pool Villa for Rent: 2 Bed villa with lovely garden, koi pond, pool with sala/ 3rd bed and seaview. Fully furnished, True visions on 42" screen, WiFi, new ACs. Private, quiet area but near all amenities. Call 086 279 6283.
Three bedroom, one bathroom, lock up garage, carport, on 1/2 Rai of land, 10 min from, P.I.A, beach and airport. Contact 081 892 4804 for more information.
NEW FURNISHED 3 BED VILLA: Brand New Fully Furnished Modern 3Bed/3.5Bath V illa, Pr ivate G arden, Po ol & Garage. 5 min to Ao Po Grand Marina & Mission Hills Golf Course, 10 min to Thanyapura Contact 0818935270 (En/Fr), srdupouy@ gmail.com, 081 893 5270
NOW OPEN!! I N T H E N AT U R E RO M A N T I C THAI - ST YLE RESORT Daily 2 0 0 0 T h b, We e k l y 12 0 0 0 T h b, Monthly 44000Thb Included: Daily room cleaning, Linen changing once/week, Internet Wi-Fi, Cable TV, Smart TV, Electricity, Free bicycle, BBQ grill, Exes to Cinema room. www.coco-palace.com, Email : namphung@andamanhorizon.asia ,Phone : 087 877 2320.
Beautiful Villa 550sqm. Land 2,400 sqm. with 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, maid's room, laundry room, home of f ice, Western kitchen. Large mature garden, garage for 2 cars Price B32 million. Call 081 978 5181. www.myrawaivilla.com
Kata Beach Apartment Sea Views: Western 1,2&3 bedroom
3 BR LUX POOLVILL A IN NAIHARN: 3 bedroom 3 bathroom, Chanote (Freehold), Land area 402.80M2 Living area 208 M2. Luxurious one-storey villa offers privacy and features your own garden and pool to enjoy the ambiance of outdoor tropical living. Fully furnished, large kitchen with built-in basin, stove, and cabinets. Private and Peaceful area. 9.9 MB. 087 877 2320.
units fully furnished, parking fully fitted teak kitchens. Granite tops Western baths, sat.TV&internet included. Masterbed with ensuite bath starting 20,000/m longterm. No party people. 084 840 1262, north8east98@yahoo. com.
GRAND VIEW CHALONG BAY: VILL A & L A N D: 3 bed
MODERN HOUSE IN KATA:
WRITE YOUR CLASSIFIED
of living the way a local Phuketian does in a highly pleasurable, private atmosphere close to Bang-Tao beach. Create wonderful memories in these modern Sino-Portuguese villas. More details at bougainvilleaphuket.com, facebook.com/BougainvilleaPhuket. 081 646 1233.
Designed house modern look 4 bedroom big diinerplace and kitchen pool sauna washerroom elevator close to kata beach quiet area. contact Cookie for more info 088 450 0463.
Bungalow in Khaolak for Sale: 5 rai land ,14 Bungalows with garden and staff house.Price:24.5 Million Baht, Contact:085-4756003 Email:riversidebungalow@ googlemail.com, w w w.khaolakriverside-bungalow.de.
PREMIUM: PAY ONCE PER MONTH B2,799+VAT.
room, 4 bath room, 2 livingroom, 1 dinningroom, 1 kitchen (american style), 1 garage (2 cars), 1 swimming pool (10x4), 1 bed room for a maid, 1 bath room for a maid, Internet, Security 24/24, Sea view and jungle view, Total sqm 556.92, Total land sqm 581,4.24MB, a.pellegrino2810@gmail.com, 084 241 3387.
PAY ONCE PER MONTH WILL RUN ONLINE FOR 30 DAYS AND IN 4 ISSUES OF THE PRINT EDITION PER MONTH. *INCLUDES 1 PICTURE IN THE PAPER AND 10 PICTURES ONLINE.
Plots for sale in Rawai:
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OCEAN VIEW VILLA FOR RENT: Large 5/6, 6 bathroom villa,
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large gym, pool, spa & more, Best views, Close to schools, Fully furnished, Min. 12 mths. For sale 48M Baht or Rent 165K per month. visit: w w w.baanparagone.com. B165K , Mark Bloxwich, Mai Promwong, 56/4 M.4 Baan Para, Paklock, Thalang, Phuket, mark@bloxwich.me; mai@ bizbiotech.com, 083 392 0077 or 081 956 2014.
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189 CHARACTERS
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PROPERTY FOR SALE
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LUXURY 3 BR IN 4 STAR R E S O R T: 3 b e d r o o m 4 bathroom, Land area 580 m2., Spacious living quarter’s feature open plan living & dining areas, a fully equipped, open-concept gourmet kitchen. The Villa comes fully furnished, Contemporary and expansive indoor and outdoor living spaces are offered, private pool. Ser vices as Restaurant, Gym, Spa ,Maintenance ,Security and Maid. A perfect investment as daily rental prices are over B30,000/Day. 087 877 2320.
Sale Patong Guesthouse 出 售巴东宾馆: First spacious&clean guesthouse downhill in Patong. 36MB. Close to the main road to Patong beach. 由业主提供公寓巴东 由业主,宾馆在巴 东。全装修的二十五间客房,36 意泰珠。 靠近巴东海滩。Ramon0856-44-9344 ramonbencharitiwong@gmail.com.
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Online upgrades:
FOR SALE. 3 plots of 250-300 sq.m each in Rawai suitable for building villas. In a quiet street and good location. Can be sold all together or separately. Contact Izzy 086 278 8300 or Danai 090 170 0429.
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Freehold 2 bed villa in Laguna: Laguna Residences, Outrigger, 2 bedroom END unit villa. FREEHOLD title!With lifetime golf membership in Laguna Golf Club and privilage card with 50% discount in Laguna restaurants and spa. Fully Furnished! Selling price : 12.950.000,- Baht Please call 080 041 4464 or email : Rental1386@ gmail.com.
In Karon: Lease or sale, commercial building, intersection corner location, highly visible, developing area. call 081 892 0960 or email karmalounge2003@yahoo.com
RESORT WITH LAND: 3 An Exclusive, Tranquil, Unique Resort with 4 separate buildings a sweet and idyllic sanctuary for the senses, is a place of relaxation and rejuvenation with the comforts of home. Surrounded by lush green mountains and tropical forest. The Resort is an oasis of natural beauty and only a couple of minutes walking to beautiful Naiharn beach. 33.3 MB, 087 877 2320.
18 CLASSIFIEDS
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PROPERTY IN PHUKET PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
List your classified now at thephuketnews.com
Urg e n t 2 N ew A p a r tments For Sale: Because
of divorce URGENT RE-SALE 2 brand new apartments. Welcome real buyers No agents. Call on +66 (0) 87 269 2274, Chrismar.
For Sale 2 villas with this view Situated at Ao Por, 2 modern contemporary villas. Infinity pool, 3 bedrooms, 4 bahtrooms, study, large living area, terrace and covered parking for 2 cars. Priced from 24 MB. info@thecurvephuket.com, www.thecurvephuket.com.
3 Gorgeous Lots, Clean Titles: For sale or long lease.
2 lots on island-beachfront (bungalow-/housing-estate) and 1 big mainland-mountain property all in very quiet, safe, well maintained locations near Krabi. 089 291 4671.
3 Bed Pool Villa Pa Khlok:
3 Beds, 2 Bath 6x3m pool. Full aircon and funishings. Ready for occupation and rental. Secure estate, private parking. 6km from Heroines monument. Close to PIA, BCS and shops. 081 737 0722.
Sea View Off Plan Condominiums: 65m2 Condominium. 1
Bedroom, 1 En Suite Bathroom, Living Room, Kitchen, Pool, Large Balcony and Terrace Space, Parking. Excellent investment opportunity. www.propertyforsalephuket.co.uk.
Beachfront Condo in Cape Panwa: Two floors 282 sq. m of
living space with stunning views. 3 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms + Study + large kitchen. Fully furnished. Communal 40m pool 5 steps away. Beach 15 steps! 091 876 2330.
Sin g l e H o u se Sp e c i a l Price Rent/Sale: Nice house
fully furnished with teakwood furniture, ready to move in. 240 sqm. 4 bed 4 bath, close to Kathu waterfall and market. Near Loch Palms, major stores, BIS and KIS. B45,000 per month. Call Oranwan 086 883 3169.
Patong Condo for sale: A nice foreign freehold condominium for sale in Patong is located in a recently complete development of one & two bedrooms condominiums. Located on the fourth floor of a total of five. 080 052 8082.
Freehold House for sale:
Freehold house for sale in estate in Cherng Talay. Land 735m2, floor area 230m2, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom. Many upgrades incl new carport included. Price B11 million. Call 083 509 8797 for info or viewing.
Beautiful Karon Villa:
Modern open living villa has it all, fully furnished, private secure estate close to beach. Enjoy the private salt water pool and undercover parking, 3 large bedrooms freehold investment. 081 719 4688.
Luxury Villa for Rent: Magnifi-
cent 4 bedroom pool villa on the west coast of Phuket, above prestigious Kata Beach. Exceptional opulence throughout. Long & short term rental. Enquiries on 087 283 8884 or 080 690 5248.
Building 3 storey for sale:
THB 26,000,000. Only 300 m. from Kata Beach. 236.25 sqm. 2 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. For more information call K.Chavarin 089 911 8833/081 866 9253 or email: wkongkeaw@hotmail.com.
Luxury Villa in Chalong: Perfect condition, 660 sqm on 3 levels, 1,600 sqm land, 5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, swimming pool 12.5m x 6m with jacuzzi, large sala, double garage. Top quality construction. Reduced price: B25.5 million www.tamata-phuket.com crishausb@hotmail.com. 086 271 3260 or 086 273 4149.
Nai Harn Baan Bua: When only
the best will do!!!!4 bed/pool villa in Phukets best kept gated community.410 sq.mtr villa.812 sq.mtr land.Overlooking lagoon.Beautiful.Ph: 0812704291. or thailandmls@gmail.com. Price 22.5 MB.
3 & 4 Bed Pool Villas:
Laguna / Layan. Luxur y pr ivate pool villas in secure development. Available now. All beds ensuite. Fully furnished. Rental programme available. B12-20 million. Contact owner: 085 549 7110.
Nice resort 8 house with pool: Nice resort 8 houses with
pool 6 house is two bedrom kitchen private laundry place 2 house is t h r e e b e d r o m k i tc h e n p r i vate laundry Aircon in all romms. Fully funitures 5 Min from Chalong circle about 2 rai land Price reduced from 28 milj, B24,500,000 ,Hakan, Chafa road, landchalong@gmail.com , 085 789 1773 .
Patong Free Hold Condo:
G re at inve st m e nt o p p o r tunit y i n P a t o n g . I h a v e 2 N E W LY RENOVATED c ondos in same complex near Simon Cabaret. Both condos fully funished + free hold. Condo no.1 4th floor studio unit 50sqm already rented out. Condo no.2 just funished renovation 3rd floor 1 bedroom 50sqm every thing brand new. This one never use and could be your residence plus earn income from other condo.Complex has huge pool + garden and 24 hrs. security. I want 5 MB for both. Eng 085 471 9246 Thai 087 621 3405.
Land Plot for Sale: Chanote title at Cherng Talay / Pasak7 (Phuket - Surin Beach area) Phone 090 487 8084. Email: utaipan@ yahoo.com.
pool & lake view. Fully furnished, near Kajonkiet International School, Tesco Lotus, Big C. 10 mins to Patong. Move in Mar 2014. Only B99k. Contact: 081 694 4144, 081 307 7247, email: suthipow@yahoo.com
Home Office Near Thanyapura: New 2-storey home
office near Academy for sale, 280 sq metres, Chanote title, 2 beds 3 baths, nature mountain view. Main street, multiple entrances and exits. 10 minutes to Airport. Only B4.95 million. Call: 086 948 2294.
behind Premium Outlet. 250m road frontage, 300m deep. Sloping upwards, starting at 15m and ending at 65m above sea level. 6M/rai. Contact owner direct at 081 893 6630.
For Sale-Beachfront land@ Naka: 2 rai of absolutely amazing beachfron. A few minutes by boat to Phuket. Facing west to the sunset and views of Phuket. Contact: 086 278 8300 or Danai 090 1700 429.
Sales Down Payment Dcondo Mine: 7th floor. with
Ready to move in, villa 1 on 1,100 sqm. land, for sale B15.9 mil and villa 2 on 2,20 0 sqm. land, for sale B19.9 mil. Brand new, each with 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 12 metre swimming pool, guest bungalow with 1 bedroom 1 bathroom. Perfectly located in a development with underground e l e c t r i c i t y a n d s e c u r i t y, o n l y 80 0 metres from Mission Hills golf course, less than 10 mins to airpor t, Phuket International Ac ademy and Ao Por Grand Marina. Call 081 343 0777. Email: montha_phuket@yahoo.com.
Land & House Park, Chalong: Villa for sale, 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, 1 Kitchen, 1 Living room, Fully furnished and equipped, Garden 240 SQM. B6.8 M Tel. 083 394 4536(Eng) /084 443 5389(Thai/Eng) flaviofurlanis@yahoo.it.
Land Close to Thanyapura/PIA: Half Rai 1.3MB, 1
Rai is 2.5 MB, total 3 Rai of Land, Mountain View, Chanote, 3 Mins drive to Thanyapura/PIA School, 15 Mins to Airport. Contact Marisa 084 305 6667 or marisar1978@ hotmail.com.
250m road frontage near Bypass: 16 rai next to Phumundra,
Rawai Soi Saliga Land for Sale: Land for sale, Soi Saliga
Rawai - 1 rai plus 81 T/W. Telephone 089 645 5049.
2 Pool Villas next to PIA:
Seaview Land Patong: Two parcels of superior land 11 rai. Inc seaview. Main road frontage. Ideal for resor t or condominiums. B150 M . N e g o t i a b l e . ( T h a i ) 0 81 3 7 0 8114 or (Ger) 081 892 1108. Email: davidgem98@hotmail.com.
Af fordable 3 Bedroom House: Single floor, 3 bedroom, 2.5 rai (N.S.-3 K document) near Kathu waterfall. 2 houses, 1 small house & 2 pools, big garage. 3 way Entrance. B28 million. Call 081 893 0540, 076 385 775 email: anong540@hotmail.com.
Land & House for sale:
Modern Villa in Marina: A spacious family home in Boat Lagoon. Modern contemporary style with 4+1 beds, 4 bathrooms. Large dining area, private swimming pool and fully furnished. 29.5 MB. Size 616 Sq.M. Call 076 238 948.
kitchen/dining area, living room, 2 toilets/showers. Aircon in each b e d r o o m . W a t e r t a n k+ p u m p . External covered area. Chanote title: 256 sqm Quiet developed village near Heroines Monument B3.2 million. Call 087 276 0529 .
Guesthouse for Lease in Patong: 12 rooms, good location Nanai Road.9 year lease: very low rent,strong starting, easy to manage and good return on investment. Price 1MLN. Take this opportunity. Thamad17@yahoo. com. 089 728 4005.
Villa with Pool for Sale: Freehold 3/4 Bedroom Villa. 3 Air Con. 4k. to Ao Makarm Beach. 10x5m pool with 4th bedroom / office on other side. Plot size 104Sq Wah. 416Sqm. Reasonable offers. Call 089 831 4703/084 304 6723.
Villa on 1 rai reduced now 20MB: Private big 3 bedroom
villa near Mission Hills golf with guest house and maids room all ensuite bathroom, big swimming pool 8x12M, big garage for 2 cars, koi ponds, European kitchen, 2x home cinema etc. Price 25MB, infomissionhill@gmail.com , 083 643 8384.
Rawai Seaview Condo for sale: Seaview condo, freehold, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 120sqm. B7.8 million, fully furnished. For more pictures and information please contact: adrian_troy@yahoo.com
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CLASSIFIEDS 19
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
PROPERTY IN PHUKET
List your classified now at thephuketnews.com PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.
House for Sale - Chalong:
Hou se on Th e Co r n er for Sale: Quiet location and
only 500m from the main road. Thepkrasattri, Heroines Monument. 70sqw x 280sqm, 3 bedrooms, 2 b at h r o o m s, b i g li v i n g r o o m with open-plan kitchen (9x9m), 1 separated kitchen, carpark for 3 cars and a small storehouse, 2 aircons, cable TV, 1 phone line TT&T. Price: B2,995,000 including furniture. Must see! Email: jochenschmitz16@gmail.com. Call 081 607 8000.
Cheapest Seaview land for Sale: Panorama view of sea view
golf course view mountain view land for sale. Near Mission Hills Golf course. 6 rai chanote title. B3 million per rai. 087 675 9555, email: pee_bang56@ hotmail.com.
Quiet stand alone villa, 3 bed, 2 - 5 star baths, 5 aircon, full furn, garden dining lush green, 50 Wah, quality new paint, excellent condition, B3.5 million, firm. Contact: peterb@inter globalau.com, 084 843 3492.
25 year lease for sale. Well situated in fast developing and sought after area close to Laguna. Some fixed rent applies. Contact 087 884 0644 for more info.
The Aqua pool villa-sales/ rent: In Land & House Park Phuket
(Manthana Zone) Land area = 440 sqm. Home area = 300 sqm. 3 bedrooms 4 bathrooms 1 living room and kitchen 1 swimming pool (3m*10m) out door jacuzzi and pavilion Sales: from 1112.8MB. Rent: from 85,000 - 120,000 B/Month. 088 751 2389.
2 Rai, Cherngtalay: 3 Rai Chanote Mangosteen Land: Beautiful square land plot next to Mangosteen Resort, 3-0-38 Rai, Chanote title, light slope, great access to Soi Saiyuan, show villa can be completed, ideal for villa or condo development. 081 536 5846.
Land for Sale: 400m from Naiyang Beach. 3 Rai 1 Tarangwah. 6.5MB per Rai. Call 087 091 8331 or email chiangmaibeltrade@hotmail. com for more information.
Resort for Sale: Resort 2 rai, with
chanote. 22 double villas with kitchens, large pool and big coconut garden with own well. Restaurant and bar with satellite TV and Adsl. Opened for 15 years, with lots of repeat customers, parking, quiet. 086 940 1860.
Beach Land on Koh Yao Yai: Price Reduced, 4beds Villa: Sea-View Chalong-Residence: Dream pool villa with 5
bedrooms all with ensuite on 1 rai of land. Big hall, office, maid’s room. Brand-new construction opposite Wat Chalong on the way up to the hill. A huge 685 sq.m of living area, fully furnished. Modern Europeandesigned kitchen. Big sea view pool terraces incl sala and attractive bar area. Security alarm system. Selling price on request. By owner directly. Call 085 654 4011 or 089 404 0737. Email: schulz.th@gmx.de.
Patong Tower for Sale:
Comfor table 4 bedrooms villa, plus maid room. Approx. 450Sq.M building, corner plot, energy saving, management ser vice available for investor.Located in secured gate community, near British International school. info@mindproperties.net.
Mai Khao Prime Location Land: I will sell my piece of land
Patong Apartment Reduced Price: Condo 4 years old. Swimming
pool, security 24/7, cafeteria. Studio 46sqm fully furnished. Freehold for foreigners. Price: 2.6MLN. Urgent sale, no agent. Tel: 089 728 4005. Email: thamad17@yahoo.com.
ing views of Chalong Bay, mountain views and Big Buddha. Two bedrooms, 310 sq.m of spacious living area and balconies. Contact Izzy 0862788300 or Danai 090 170 0429.
PAT O N G c o n d o s f o r sale: Beautiful, modern Condos/
Apartments, furnished, best/quiet locations, garden, s-pool, from 36-67sq metre, sea-city-mountain views, from B2,375. Call 087 819 2162 or caltirol@hotmail.com.
Charming 4 Bed. House for Sale: Full privacy. Great for families. D E TA C H E D O R S E M I DETACHED: Large detached 4
Bed.4 Bath 2 en suite, 4 air con. OR 2 adjoining semi-detached. Live in one, Rent one ? Water storage with pumps. Secure Parking. Quite Soi. All in Excellent condition. B3.5M. kimera5@yahoo.com 082 738 3007.
5km East from Heroines Monument. Photos available. THB 4,5 mill. Contact Lin (+66) (0)81 8922419, linphuket@ gmail.com.
House and Business for sale: 3 storey, 5 bedrooms, good
location, off road parking, busy road. Contact Thai 084 630 6920, English 082 534 7410, jeedyvcd@hotmail.com, davidweath@yahoo.com.
Khao Sok, 25+ rai, B400,000 per rai: 25 rai, 3 ngan in Khao Sok, Klong Sok district. B400,000 per rai. Close to Khao Sok National Park entrance. PNSS3 title, to be upgraded to Chanote soon. Phone 081 693 2759.
@thephuketnews
New House for Sales low price than Project, Phanason Villages at Bang Joe for 50 Sqm, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Free contract. Contact: 089 729 9503.
New House for Sales:
Three floor villa for sale: New house for sale: At Siri Village, Pa Khlok, 2 flrs, 3 beds, 2 shower rms, kitchen, living & dining area, garden, car park, 2 aircons, unstair curtains, 1 furnished bedroom. 3.8MB Contact Kirana 088 760 6083.
Pool Villa Rawai: 4 Bedroom/ 4 Bathroom European style single storey house with self contained guest house and pool in Rawai on 736m2 plot. Large master bedroom with en-suite, walk in wardrobe. Modern western style kitchen with granite tops, built-ins throughout. Established 7 years. Plenty of outdoor living area with several verandahs and under cover car park, air-conditioning in all bedrooms and lounge. Situated about 2km from Chalong circle in a quiet lane 1km from Viset Road. House & Guest house 180 sqm Land area 736sqm (184TW). 3 bedrooms Master ensuite, 4 Bathrooms 7x3.5m salt water pool. Electric gate. Well water. Concrete road access. Call 087 891 9349.
This luxury three bedroom home is located in a secure estate with security and office. It is only five minutes from Bangtao Beach and Laguna Phuket including the Laguna Phuket Golf Club and 20 minutes from Blue Canyon Country Club and Phuket International Airport. The villa comes fully furnished with luxury leather lounge suites and quality furniture, all bedding, kitchen utensils and cooking facilities. For details and inspection, see www. phuketselect.com or contact graham@ phuketselect.com or call 081 897 0225.
2 baths, large living and dining room, 4 X aircons, 2 X car ports and garage. House 7 yrs 1 owner , well maintained with 135sqm living area. Land Chanote 92tw. 3.5MB 081 737 3116.
A big beautiful house with 7 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, fully furnished. Located in stunning panoramic hilltop scenery in Takuapa, Phang Nga, covering an area of 127 rai. Surrounded by fertile farmland with fruit trees. Price 96MB. Contact K. Peerawat: 08 4 308 8484. Email: peerawat002@hot mail.co.th
located right in the heart of Chalong with panorama view of Chalong pier. Close to a number of sandy beaches; Naihan Rawai Kata and Karon. Easy access to major depar tment stores. Surrounded by public facilities including education institutes and hospitals. You will benefit from a perfect location that's rapidly increasing in value. 3 rai and 1 Ngan with Chanote title. Call 087 278 7206, 089 215 5041 e -mail: kubesjoy@ hotmail.com.
Luxury 3 Bed Villa For Sale:
3 Bdrm House for sale Thalang: House for sale. 3 bed and
Villa and farmland for sale:
Seaview Land For Sale: Land
House for sale: Baan Manik area, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, ceiling fans all through out, 2 aic con units, furnished. 2.7MB, no offers. For more info - Farang - 080 323 1918, Thai 081 607 9874.
next to the new tourist attraction in Mai Khao. Perfect for investment in future like shops, guesthouse. Please email for mobile number and more details. ohmidzi@gmail.com.
FOR SALE Penthouse in Rawai: 360 panoramic breathtak-
And for rent. Sea view and mountain views. Freehold from 64 to 448 sq metres. Phone no: 080 692 6114. Email: orsoreal estate@hotmail.com.
6.26 rai direct beachfront, power, water, road, unobstructed views, chanote title, white sand, peaceful. Only 5.8 mil baht per rai. Doesn't get much better than this! Beautiful beach land. 081 649 3557.
Brand new three floor villa on Phuket, near Villa Market. Glass elevator, swimming pool, ocean view. 700 sq. m. Freehold contract available. Current price: 13m THB. Please call Alexander 080 521 0736.
12 Rai Chanote to sell: One of the last pieces of beautiful sea view land between Ao Makham and Ao Yon Road. Infrastructure done B210 million. Call 081 917 0377, 10am-5pm.
Luxury Condo Rent / Sale:
Seaview Townhouse Patong: Bet ween the c it y and
the jungle at the northern edge of Patong. 70m alt. 10mn walk to the beach. 4 storey + 290 sqm, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 1 toilet. 4 aircon, partly furnished. Email: andamanhills@gmail.com.
Budget Bungalows:
Two Bungalows in Chalong.2-3 bedrooms.Close to all amenities. One has room for a pool,the other is like a rain forest. From only 2,300,000 Baht.Ph:0812704291. Email: thailandmls@gmail.com.
2 B e d r o o m , L- r o o m a n d f u l l y equipped kitchen, 160 -212sqm. Very high standard with a nice view. Big balcony, swimming pool, gym. Location: Kathu, 10 min. Patong Beach, 5 min. Phuket Town and all department stores and international hospitals. Rent Long term: B45,000 – B63,50 0 Buy: B8,50 0,0 0 0 – B11,500,000. Contact 086 268 7901 or send e-mail to: condophuket@ yahoo.com.
20 CLASSIFIEDS
PROPERTY IN PHUKET
List your classified now at thephuketnews.com
PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.
House in Phuket Town / Samkong 3 bedroom, 3 bathrooms Beautiful Naiharn Pool Villa:
Lu xu r i o u s G o l f V i l l a @ Laguna Village: MUST BE SOLD ! Surplus to family invest needs. 3-bed, plus maid's qtrs. This home has been lovingly cared for. Leasehold/freehold. BVI status. POA. Ph 082 810 4184, phuketres@gmail.com
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
Modern Family House for sale: Beautiful 3 bedrooms villa in New Luxury Villa For Sale:
3 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, living room, kitchen, private swimming pool (12 metre). House area of 600 sq.m., land 1.5 rai (2400 sq metre). Located on the shore of the ocean on the Koh Kho Khao. larion2555@ gmail.com. 084 226 4574.
Secure private hillside by Naiharn Beach. Quality furnished throughout. 3 big bedrooms, office, 4 baths, 230 sm plus carport etc. 1050 sm land. New condition. 15x4.6 m pool. Freehold. Nice. Only 17.5MB. Contact 089 727 5407, villa-sale-phuket.com.
Rawai. 160sqm indoor. 400sqm outdoor. Shared swimming pool. Modern villa renovated in 2011-2012. Fully furnished. For more info: phuketvilla jasmine@gmail.com
Conveniently located 5 minutes from all amenities including both international hospitals, Central Festival, international schools and the centre of town. Selling due to relocation. Priced to sell at 4.3 M THB including 4 air cons and all modern style furniture. Nothing more to spend. Contact (English): 084 768 0536 or (Thai): 085 888 0502
Apartment on Golf Course:
Hot Price Sale- PuriAnda Villas: New Pool Villa in Rawai
Seaview 1 BDRM New Condo Patong: Stunning seaview,
2 Bed/3 Bath, Built-In & Partial fur. Private pool & jacuzzi, sala, 50 0 m.to beach Price 7.9 mil.Baht with Chanote title Tel.081 691 3029, E: kris. silanachai@yahoo.com.
Golf View, Kathu. Tastefully renovated large (83m2) apartment in Phuket Country Club. Golf view. 1 bed but easily converted to 2. Store, large Western kitchen and all furniture included. Ideal (holiday) home. Contact 081 273 7326, Email: keith marshall747@gmail.com.
city view 1 bdrm condo on hill 500m from Patong beach. Fitness centre, roof top pool, security, car park, freehold. Only B4,400,000. Keith 084 628 3430, keithb025@gmail.com. 4 plots (3 connecting, 1 separate) 1km north of Airport, along the road to MaiKhao Beach. Sea view towards south east. NorSor3Gor. 4.5 Rai in total. B4 million per Rai. Contact owner: 081 893 6630.
Amazing 3 Bedroom Villa With Swimming Pool: Guarded
SeaView near Airport:
Investment Proper t y for sale!: New, modern waterfront townhome at the Boat Lagoon for sale. Rented out long term at B570,000 per year. 3 bed/4 bath, 2 balconies, terrace at canal, 6 m berth in front of house. 250 sqm living space. Top condition. Luxury finishings. Brokers welcome. B9.9 million. 086 747 9292 (English) or 081 970 5204 (Thai/English).
Serenity near the Beach,Chumpon: 210 sq.M
contemporary 2 story house,pool.400 M. to ThungWualen.Situated in a green belt of jungle,palm plantations,10 mins walk to the beach No traf fic jams.Chanote title.Total 2648 sq.M., Email : chitsamon@hotmail.com , Phone : 083- 391 4405.
compound Kokyang Estate Phase II, 3 min to Nai Harn beach, modern interior design, garage, developed infrastructure. For more information: phuketbuyhouse.com/1644. Call Elena 084 305 0634.
Reduced for Quick Sale:
Studio condo at The Point near Lotus, Big C, Central. Fully furnished. Great views 6th floor. Cost B2.8M. Reduced to B2.25M. Call 087 889 3838 or 081 370 8114. Email: davidgem98@hotmail.com
Home For Sale By Owner: Donsak Beachfront Land 3 Rai: 67 metres absolute beach
frontage, fully infrastructured, ready to build. Close to ferry going to Koh Samui. Chanote title. 4.5 MB for all. Email: nhoj0512@hotmail.com.
One level 3 Bdr,2 Bath,fully equipped kitchen, set in private, secure surroundings and conveniently located as it’s just a 5 minutes drive to the BIS international school.Community Pool. Email : robert.anthony.krause@gmail. com, 084 851 9795.
Free Hold Condo For Sale:
43 Sq. Free hold. 1 balcony (Great view). 1 bed room. 1 living room. 2 air conditioners. Full furniture. Internet.Swimming pool. Gym. Automated door lock and key card. Call 080 040 9077.
Sea View Land for Sale:
Ao-Yon, 13.5 rai, chanode title.10m/ rai.Call Siri 089 649 9939, email: siri_phuket@changrunner.com.
Condo At The Heights, Kata: Immaculate 2-bed foreign-
freehold unit in award-winning project. 195 sqm, sea view, near gym & pool. Quality furnishing throughout. Designer kitchen with utility-store. phuket.pn@gmail.com.
Sea View Land for Sale: Ao Makham. 5.5 rai, B10 million per rai. Contact Siriporn 089 649 9939, email: siri_phuket@changrunner.com.
Amazing sea view pool villa:
Land area 500m2, House area 164m2. 3 bed, 4 bath, fully furnished, aircon in all rooms, fans, Internet, satellite TV, swimming pool, independent water supply wells. Finish work December 2012. B8.5 million. Call 088 838 3242.
Furnished House for Sale Phuket Villa 5: 3 bedroom
Mission Heights:
Sea-View Contemporary Pool Villla: Located near Phuket
town. L and: 8 5 5 sq.m. H ouse: 650sq.m. Furnished. 3 beds, 2 offices, 2 staff quarters, 1 free room. 2 Parkings. Price B38 mill.Tel: 081 895 3628 E-mail: jin_koy@yahoo.com.
furnished house near Kajonkiet School. Secure area, Cul De Sac. Nic e gardens, t wo bathrooms. B3.5M negotiable. Call 081 370 8114 (Thai) 087 889 3838 (Eng), email:davidgem98@hotmail.com.
1.5 Rai Private Land Cape Yamu: 1.5 Rai flat land at Cape
4 bed,4 bath,beautifully furnished villa, great ocean views. Cape Yamu area, only 10 mins from BIS/PIA . Large pool,garden, very private estate. 80000/mth. 0862796283; kdesmond59@yahoo.co.uk.
Yamu. 2 x 0.75 Rai adjoining plots. OrBorTor road access to quiet end of soi location. Sale direct from the owner. B3.75 Million per rai negotiable. Call 081 087 9237.
Beaut iful L and L aguna Cher ngt alay: Chanote t it le,
Land for Sale Cherngtalay:
Ocean Front Villa for Sale:
206.4 sqm, Chanote title in Phanason residence(next to Makro). 1 min to Central festival, 5 min to town. Call 084 061 4314, 076 393 965.
Land for sale:
Happy Home Apartment for sale: Nice apartment, fully
furnished at Rawai. The apar tment is set in a private compound with pool. It is located only 5 minutes from beach and convenient to Phuket Town. Only B15 million. Tel: 081 893 2165 www.happyho meapartmentphuket.webiz.co.th.
Luxury brand new villa, fully furnished and ready to move in, 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms with infinity 10 metre long swimming pool and truly beautiful sea view. Located in a small development, only 50 metres from the sea and 3 mins from Ao Po Grand Marina. For sale B19.9 million or for long term rent B150,000 per month. Call 081 343 0777, email: montha_phuket@ yahoo.com.
Spac ious one bed room apar tment with ocean view, nor th of Patong. Floor area 96m2 internal and 72m2 terrace including water feature with sala and jacuz zi. Per fect bachelor pad with rental income. Email for info: bart duykers@mac.com.
For sale:
Pool villa for sale or rent:
Beautiful 2,400sqm (1.5RAI) Chanote titled land plot in Pasak 8, located on the highest point of a gentle slope. Quiet and safe area. Only 8.5MB. Agents welcome. Phuketlandvilla@ hotmail.com, 089 875 9609.
bedrooms with bathrooms in tastefully re-decorated bungalow set in mature garden plot of 550m2 within secure development for ownership and/or investment. B15.5 million. Email: irynain@gmail.com.
yellow zoned, save area. Nearly 4 rai, direct from owner. Subdivided i n 6 p l o t s e a c h c a . 1, 0 0 0 s q m . ready to build. Only 7.5 MB per rai. K hun Chanc hira, 0 81 3 67 76 8 3. chanchira.panpaen@googlemail.com.
Royal Kamala Condo-Sale & Rent: In Kamala. Freehold 1, 2, 3
Hillside setting. Luxurious 6 bedroom, 5 bathroom pool villa for sale or rent. Sale 20M Baht. Rent Low season Daily 6k, Weekly 36k, Monthly 80k. High season Daily 7k, Weekly 42k, Monthly 100k. One complete year 85k per month. Call 087 078 6379.
Absolute Beachfront:Set on the beachfront, the ff villa offers uninterrupted sea and island views of the south east coast of Phuket. Situated between two 5 star resorts: Vijitt and EVASON near Laem Kanoi. 081 480 3834, http://www. facebook.com/Phuket.Beachfront.
Laguna/Layan Beach Luxury 13M Salt-Water Pool Villa For Sale (Or Rent): Three large
Beautiful Karon Villa: Stunning,
safe, secure estate villa , close to beach, crystal clear salt water pool 3 large bedrooms, modern open living, fully furnished, freehold, everything done – enjoy the lifestyle. Phone 081 719 4688 Email : elbej@hotmail.com
Rawai Beachfront Pool Villa for Rent/Sale: Rawai
Beach front pool villa for sale. 3 bedrooms, furnished. Contact Siriporn on 089 649 9939.
Absolute Beach Front Land: Songkla district near new
deep sea port. 4.5 Rai divided into 7 Chanote plots. Reluctant sale. B4.9M the lot. Email: jmic chia@ yahoo.com or call 087 276 0529.
Bedroom apartment with kitchen, living room, balcony, swimming pool, fitness, security guard, parking. Ready to move. 085-368-3009, salesdirector@ royalkamala.com
Italian modern home for sale: Sea view and mountain view,
indoor swimming pool 14.50Meters X4.20Meters, near Rawai beach. 3 Bedrooms, land 216 m². Indoor 334 m². Ready to move in. The_ promenade@hotmail.com . 093 160 6566. Price 13 MB.
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PROPERTY IN PHUKET
List your classified now at thephuketnews.com ale s nt e g Ur
RPM Owner Direct Unique luxury condo 2 bed, 2 bath, 155sqm. Foreign FREE HOLD. Recent architect remodel. New Jacuzzi. Views to lake, mountain, marina, pool etc. Completely furnished to very high standard. Motivated owner leaving.
Reduced by 600,000B. ONLY 16.9MB. Contact Brian (Owner) 089 054 4354, +632 906 435 7146, Alan 087 999 6174, bggvirgo@gmail.com. See RoyalPhuketMarinaCondos.com for complete details.
PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.
Our customers are wanting to BUY your condo, house, villa or business. Please contact Tina - 082 423 0043 or gm@arcadaproperty.com East Coast Sea View Land
Rawai Great Buying: Lovely 3 Bedroom Pool Villa, Rawai: 160m2 Private Pool Villa. 3 Bedroom, 4 Bathroom (3 En Suite), Kitchen, Dining Room, Living Room, Large Balconies & Terrace, Carport. Freehold, Chanote title. 2 minutes from beach! See proper tyforsalephuket.co.uk.
house with 2 bedrooms or separate SC flat downstairs.Well ventilated with natural light in pristine condition.Distant sea views.4,995,000 Baht. Warren Crowe 081 270 4291 or thailandmls@gmail.com.
LUXURY 5 BED HOUSE IN LAGUNA
Total 1.5 rai (2,450sq metre) on gently sloping land with sea view of Phang Nga Bay.
Wonderful 5 bed house over looking the lake & Golf course in Laguna. Sale: Reduced to: 31.5 M / Rent: 190,000 P/M. Call Mick: 0848186045 - Email: mr.mickb@yahoo.com or www.silkwind.net/laguna
2 separate Chanote titles each about 1,200 sq metres (4.5 and 5.5M), or will sell as one lot.
2,200 Land, Nai Harn -B10.9 million for Sale: 4 Rai & Home & Thai Co. 18 M B 4 R ai w 2 b,1b a h o m e NS3G title. Next to Nat’l Park Layan, N Bang Tao Scenic Quiet 5 min to Cherng-Telay Walk to beach Prior permit for 6 villa develop Road, runoff culvert & tank built. 084 842 4581, PhuketHorseRescue@GMail.com
Condominium for SALE in Patong: Freehold title, Studio type, 32 sqm. of the living area, Furnished, 1 Bathroom, Fitted kitchen with dining area, Swimming pool, Restaurant. Call 083 103 3801 (English and Thai).
Last 1 Studio of The Cleat condo (Phase 1) in Krabi Boat Lagoon, low-rise waterfront Condo built around the lagoon with Mangrove, Sea and Marina view and full facilities. Call +66(0)76 238 948.
Paklok, Chanote, Mountain View, 200m from main road, 11 km from monument and 4 km to Mission Hill. Interested or want a larger size? CALL 084 305 6667, email: mari sar1978@hotmail.com
Hill Land for Sale: Very nice location hill land by the Bangwat Dam, total 60 rai, 96,000 square metre. Contact: Attapong 081 892 0610 (Thai), Jantiwa 081 890 8268 (Eng). e-mail: jantiwa_ j@ hotmail.com.
Beautiful Beachfront Land: Absolute beach front land only 4 to 5 hours from Phuket. Why pay 30-50 million baht per Rai when you can have the best from B1.1 to B2.9 Million Baht per Rai!!! Email: thailandmls@ gmail.com.
4 Bedroom British Colonial style house, Cape Yamu, Phuket. Amazing views spanning over 100km, as far as Krabi. Price reduced from B35 to B28 million. 086 279 6283, email: kdesmond59@yahoo.co.uk.
Ocean Front Land: 7 rai with 185 metres of sea frontage. Water, electricity, road and boat access, located 800 metres from Yacht Haven marina, perfect site for small beach front development. For quick sale only B5 million per rai. Tel 081 343 0777 Email: montha_phuket@ yahoo.com.
house. 3 large beds/4 baths. 250 Sqm. one office area and 2 balconies. One private birth for a boat up to 6 meters behind the house. freehold/leasehold. B9.9 million. Call 082 493 8526. Email: flakes010@hotmail.com.
Must see! Great 4bd villa:
World Class Sea Views:
Patong Loft Condo:
Makes a good condo deal now. 1-bedroom, fully furnished, 67 sqm living area. Only B2.99 mil. Big swimming pool. Normal price B3.7 mil. Call 089 872 6895. Email: jospeder@live.no.
Truly exceptional 4 bd villa on the 1900 sqm land, surrounded by jungle. 10x5 m pool must see! 10 min drive to Tanyapura and to Naithon Beach. Great lovely home for large families! 12.5MB. 0840607050. info@molokophuket.com.
Chalong Beach Front Pool Villa: Chalong Beach Front Pool Villa For Sale/Rent,3 bed rooms,area 1 rai call Siriporn 089 649 9939,email: siri_phuket @changrunner.com.
Very Spacious European From Owner: Villa in peace-
Phuket Country Club Condos: 3 Only Luxury Contemporary
Condos, 1 per floor C/W lift. Located on the 15th fairway 275 M3 per floor total.Common Pool and Sundeck. Underground parking 1/unit, Floor 3 show unit complete Floors 1&2 are unfinished, waiting for owners choice of flooring and kitchens. Could still develop into one very large private home. Floors 1&2 could be offices star ting from B10 million. Or B32 million for project Partial financing available. Info contact 084 840 1262, north8east98@yahoo.com
ful place in Rawai. Large living area and terrace. 3 bedrooms, 4 aircon, 3 bathrooms, 1 guest toilet. Western kitchen, garage, laundry, beautiful garden, swimming pool. 612 sqm plot, chanote title. Price B9.5 million. Contact Tanya 083 506 8345, geta909@gmail.com.
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Urgent Sale: 6 rai Hilltop Land for sale, near Mission Hills golf club, was B4.2 million per rai now only B2.99 million per rai, full chanote, water/ elec. sea/mountain views. 087 978 5804 (Eng).
Land For Sale: Mission Hills. 3/4 of rai in small community, very quiet and private, close to all services, 10 min to school, airport, beach, golf, Tesco. Was B2.5M. 087 276 0529 for info.
URGENT!! SEAVIEW LAND 12 Million Baht www.phuket-land-sale.com 081 8937027
7th Floor Suites (Hotel) Building For Sale Kata Beach Center 9 apar tments and a 300 sqm Penthouse on the roof plus fully equipped restaurant and pool with terrace are free of rent and now available. Price total 38 million Baht (9.50.000.euro) include chanote and Thai company. For serious interest email: thewhitehousekata@gmail.com for RUSSIAN; Ms. Oxana Email: phuket.lux@gmail.com
@thephuketnews
Modern Villa in Marina:
A spacious family home in Boat Lagoon. Modern contemporary style with 4+1 beds, 4 bathrooms. Large dining area, private swimming pool and fully furnished. Size 616 Sq.M. Call 076 238 948.
288 sqm of heaven. Plunge pool, 3 bed, 4 bath overlooking perfect panoramic ocean views. Beach shops, fabulous restaurants, nightlife all a 3 minute walk. B42,624,000. Contact: 088 761 4030 or imgphuket@gmail.com.
Freehold Condo For Sale: 45 Sq.m Freehold. 2 balconies (great view). 1 bedroom. 1 livingroom. 2 air conditioners. Full furniture. Internet. Cable TV. Laundry. Fresh market. Swimming pool. Gym. Restaurant. Call 080 040 9077.
PROPERTY WANTED
Buy / Sale / Rent: Property and Business. Our clients are interested to buy/rent property and business in Nai Harn, Rawai, Kata, Karon, Patong, Kamala, Surin, Bang Tao. Free Listing. Please visit www.skyproperty.ru, sales@skyproperty.ru ,088 450 5095.
REAL ESTATE SERVICES
Zion Proper ty CO., Ltd.: Superb Ocean View Lux Penthouse: B148,000 per sqm,
Sales - D Condo Mine:
Sales - down payment 250,000 B D Condo Mine Phuket Town by Sansiri. Finished in March 2014.Corner room on the 7th floor with nice view. 2 Bedrooms Call:089 159 3239.
and infrastructure seven further plots for development. 1.5km from Mission Hills Golf Club. Please call 087 888 1761 (Aom) for details.
Patong; 50 sqm of the living area, sea-view /mountain view, furnished, Pool, 24hr security, for SALE B2.8M B3.3M. Contact +66 (0) 83 103 3801, 081 415 7774.
Land for Sale: BEST SEAVIEW LAND-EVER!
Great Investment Opportunity: Completed show house
Apartment for sale in Patong: Apartment for SALE in
Condo in Marina:
Waterfront Villa in Boatlagoon: Modern style spacious town-
Paklok Land Only B7,999/ Sqwah: Only B7,999/Sq wah at
Located in Sai Yaun 9, at the back of Mangosteen hotel. Very good access , road, electric, water. Size approximately 30 by 70 metres. Chanote. Contact 087 897 0501. aleksa@thai-evagroup.com
Underground services. 081 273 7326, email: kmar74@hotmail.com.
Land for Sale - Khao Lak: A beautiful 402 rai land with 860 meters of beach front in Khao Lak,Phang Nga,Chanote Title,sale all land. Ru/ En translator Call:088-7652203,0813707289, wittawat_ks@hotmail.com
Mission Hills. One rai. Very quiet and private, close to all services, 10 min to school, airport, beach, golf, Tesco. B3.4M. 087 276 0529 for info.
Whether you are selling, buying or renting we offer a wide selection of high quality properties, land and businesses located in the south of Thailand. Please contact us for further information. Call 080 087 1772. See zionproperty.com.
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HOME IMPROVEMENT
Specialized in large commercial and small residential cooling & heating systems.
076 319406-8 086 4702026-7 www.choochuay.com
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Jobs
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We b D eve l o p e r
G enkan Creative is looking to expand its international team. We are looking for a self-motivated, highly creative individual to work with our international team creating world class web applications. Candidates are expected to have the following experience; Thai Nationality Minimum 3 years’ experience working in Web Development Knowledge of HTML, CSS, Javascript, PHP Minimum 2 years’ experience working with Wordpress Knowledge of SEO a plus Knowledge of graphic design tools. E.g Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop a plus Knowledge of Facebook Apps a plus Expected Salary between 25,000 – 30,000 THB depending on experience. Candidates should send their CV to tpb@genkan.com.au.
Graphic Designer wanted Genkan Creative is looking to
expand its international team. We are looking for a self-motivated, highly creative individual to work with our international team creating world class web applications. Candidates are expected to have the following experience; Thai Nationality 3 years’ experience in Web graphic design Knowledge of HTML & CSS Knowledge of graphic design tools. E.g Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop Knowledge of Wordpress a plus Expected Salary between 20,000 – 30,000 THB depending on experience. Candidates should send their CV & Portfolio to tpb@genkan.com.au.
Native English Teacher
Fr e e l a n c e G r a p hi c s Designer: Looking for Freelance Graphics Designer for occasional projects using Photo shop, In Design and Illustrator programmes. Contact Simone on marketing@sea-bees.com or call 083 596 0018.
GHOST WRITER WANTED: Experience and CV Resident Phuket Apply ghostphuket@gmail.com.
N e e d ex p e r i e nc e d p r e s c h o o l teacher, 10 -14 children. Star t i m m e d i a t e l y, C h a l o n g , 4 0 hour a week. Send resume to phuketteacher@yahoo.com.
Marketing Executive wanted Art House is hiring - Marketing Executive, working at the booth in Central. Thai female, good command of English. We pay basic salary + commission + bonus. Call Alexandr 089 594 6888, info@arthouse.asia.
LIVE THE LIFEST YLE OF YOUR DREAMS: Inter-
DMG Thailand is hiring Development Management Group is a Project Management Company with a long and successful history in Phuket. We are expanding our team and looking for candidates with a track record of success.The positions will be located in Phuket and Thai Nationals are desired. The positions require good command of spoken and written English.
Contracts Manager The suc c essf ul c andidate will have a proven track record of successful contracts work in a construction environment. Administrative Assistant Solid skills with MS Office and previous construction experience is a plus. Tel: 076-617763. Email: hr@ dmg-thailand.com.
Class Act Media is southern Thailand's most comprehensive media company, incorporating Phuket’s leading English newspaper ‘The Phuket News’, Russian language newspaper 'Novosti Phuketa', Phuket’s leading English radio station ‘Live 89.5’, Phuket English TV 'Phuket News TV' and a a host of publications & services including ‘The Phuket Colouring book’ & ‘Phuket Ticket Master’.
TV PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
Editorial Assistant/Translator
Interested candidates are invited to send application with full resume in English indicating qualifications, experience, expected salary with recent photo via email to hr@classactmedia.co.th or fax your resume to 076-612-553
Class Act Media Co., Ltd.
99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 ext 100 Fax: 076 612 553
@thephuketnews
Telephone Operator .Good level of English. Ability to work under pressure. Good in communication and organisation. Responsible and reliable. Minimum one year experience. Contact: HR Department, email: Humanresources.phuket@ swissotel.com or call 076 303 000.
M&E Engin e er M ec hanic al & Elec tr ic al Engineer to handle inspection, testing, and design review on a new construction project.Will coordinate with designers and contractors for the successful completion of the project.
Class Act Media is southern Thailand's most comprehensive media company, incorporating Phuket’s leading English newspaper ‘The Phuket News’, Russian language newspaper 'Novosti Phuketa', Phuket’s leading English radio station ‘Live 89.5’, Phuket English TV 'Phuket News TV' and a a host of publications & services including ‘The Phuket Colouring book’ & ‘Phuket Ticket Master’.
Phuket News TV, a division of Class Act Media, is looking for a new member of staff who wants to learn everything about the production of video material - camerawork, video editing, studio and live recording. You will be part of a small, dynamic team and will be an important contributor to the weekly content from Phuket News TV. Previous industry experience is not necessary. But it is important to have an interest in digital broadcasting, video production and telling stories through the medium of video. Experience with shooting video material and digital editing software would be an advantage. Phuket News TV use Sony HD cameras and edit primarily on the Apple platform with Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro.
S w i s s S e r vic e / Phon e Operator: Swiss Ser vice /
The successful candidate will: ● Be a Thai national ● Be able to read, write and speak in English in order to translate documents to a high standard ● Be enthusiastic and have a positive attitude ● Assist foreigner and Thai editorial staff with information gathering ● Have excellent communication and telephone skills in both Thai and English ● Have the ability to work as part of a friendly team ● Strong computer skills ● Some data entry required ● Some after hours work required Interested candidates are invited to send application with full resume in English indicating qualifications, experience, expected salary with recent photo via email to hr@classactmedia.co.th or fax your resume to 076-612-553
Class Act Media Co., Ltd.
99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 ext 100 Fax: 076 612 553
FREELANCE WEB / SEO / EDITING: Do you require up-dates/ SEO to your site, blog or Open Cart? Also: s-engine/RSS/Blog submissions - PDF/Photo flip shows - Web Photo Video’s etc. Email: mr.m.hopkins@ gmail.com.
national financial advisors required for south east asia finance and sales experience a huge advantage please send your CV and contact details to: info@pp-intl. com www.pp-intl.com.
Au pair Qualifications: ·Bachelor’s degree + qualified teacher status. ·Accredited qualifications for working with young children. ·First language English speaker, plus the ability to teach other language . ·Expected to play at least 2 musical instruments. ·Between 35 to 47 years old, Female Experience: ·Minimum 7 years experience as Private Tutor. ·Minimum 3 years teaching experience preferably as a qualifiedteacher. Rationale: ·The purpose is to support the family in personal growth and development of the children. ·The focused on the manners, etiquette, well being and educational progress of the children. ·The post will have a significant influence on the children’s personality development and always ensure their well-being. Pls contact Carol 081 978 0090 or email me carolgarciastudio@ gmail.com.
Class Act Media is southern Thailand's most comprehensive media company, incorporating Phuket’s leading English newspaper ‘The Phuket News’, Russian language newspaper 'Novosti Phuketa', Phuket’s leading English radio station ‘Live 89.5’, Phuket English TV 'Phuket News TV' and a a host of publications & services including ‘The Phuket Colouring book’ & ‘Phuket Ticket Master’.
LIFESTYLE/FEATURES EDITOR The Phuket News is looking for a lifestyle & features editor to oversee its weekly LIFE supplement. Your role will include writing and sourcing stories for an exciting range of subjects, from arts to dining, education to entertainment. You’ll be interviewing the island’s leading personalities, reviewing restaurants, attending glamorous events, and heading off on weekend travel trips. The ideal candidate will have 1-2 years experience covering lifestyle for a magazine or newspaper, be outgoing with plenty of ideas, and have strong writing and editing skills. You should also be keen to learn more about the Thai culture and the kingdom. In return, we offer a friendly work environment, 5 day work week (8.30am-6pm), competitive salary, local health insurance, work-related travel expenses, time in lieu for overtime, and the chance to live and experience a great part of the world, while also furthering your career. With a booming economy, thriving beach culture, and international community, Phuket is the place to be. Interested candidates are invited to send application with full resume in English indicating qualifications, experience, expected salary with recent photo via email to editor@classactmedia.co.th or fax your resume to 076-612-553
Class Act Media Co., Ltd.
99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 ext 100 Fax: 076 612 553
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Buy&Sell
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
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BOATS & YACHTS Luxury Yacht for Sale: For sale 2002 Bertram 510 Flybridge luxury yacht. Reduced to only USD675,000. Contact Marcus on marcus@leema rine.net.
2 2 m . I n d o n e s i a n Pi n i s i Ketch: Licensed and registered in
Boat Sales and Charters:
Thailand. She is in good condition and currently working as a snorkel and sunset tour boat. For sale or long-term rental. Price negotiable for quick sale. dragonheartthailand@gmail.com.
Want to build or charter your own boat to get out among Phuket’s many islands for fishing or pleasure? Then please contact the experts on 081 270 4291 or go to www. fishingboatingthailand.com.
End of 2013 - New Yacht Sale: Dehler 29 - 2 Cabin - THB New Varianta 37:
Max Value – Min Price 37’ yacht built by Hanse and designed by Judel/Vrolijk at a 32’ price. Performance 2/3 Cabin Layout. Base Price €74,900 ex Fact 0813701995 inq@sea-yss.com.
3,5000,000; Hanse 325 Max - 2 Cabin - THB 4,000,000; Varianta 37 - 3 Cabin - THB 4,950,000. Prices include many options and Delivery to Phuket. Contact: inq@sea-yss.com - www.sea-yss.com, 081 370 1995. Inq, inq@sea-yss.com.
LIV Aboard For Sale: Compressors and tanks also available. Please contact Joe : 087 891 8912 joe@ similan-diving-safaris.com.
Glass bottom Looker 320 Glass bottom cruise boat for sale. Length 9.5m, beam 3.7, passenger capacity 22, speed up to 40 knots, dural/composite hull. Engine Mercruiser 320 hp. Fuel tank for 150 l, consumption 50 l, consumption 50 l / 100 km. Front transparent windshield, bottom glass 3x2 m, hydrofoil, toilet + shower, navigation. Built in 2011, excellent condition. Sell for 9MB or barter for villa/apartment. pervadim@yandex.ru
Yacht sale 36-ft Searay: A very good condition with bedding for 5, air-con, generator, kitchenette, BBQ grill, twin propulsion, Mercruiser 5.0L bravo III DTS, raymarine chartplotter, GPS and depth sounder. B4.5 million. Call 089 647 5204. NEW ZODIAC 420 YACHTLINE: SPECIAL OFSELLING YOUR BOAT?: With high season just around the corner, now is the right time to get her listed, Boatshedphuket.com are always looking for new listings,big or small, power or sail, contact Alan Giles. 084 842 6146.
FER FROM MAX MARINE ASIA – A great sporty RIB, designed as a tender/people carrier for a larger vessel of approximately 70 feet. A smooth, fast ride guaranteed from the world’s most famous inflatable boat brand. -Hypalon tubes -Honda 50hp EFI 4 Stroke outboard -Boat cover FOR SALE AT B750,000 Contact Craig Murphy on 081 970 0583 Or, Paul Stamp on 08-40 60 70 20 www.maxmarine.asia.
J e t s k i s & Tr a i l e r 600,000THB: Two 3 person jet skis, fully maintained & just fully repainted and serviced. Refurbished stainless frame trailer included with trailer jack and hand winches.082 282 6947 Dan (Thai/English).
Crownline 320 LS 50 kts B o w r i d : Ve r y f a s t - n i c e s p o r t boat,2x350 MPI engines, year 2009, like new, lifetime hull warantty, only 100 working engine hours, Thai flag, tax payed. Only 3M THB, Airberth 0, 5 M T H B seper ately. C ont ac t: yach@elas.si.
40FT Steel Cutter Sloop: Ready to cruise.Centrecockpit. Safe, strong German design.New Sails, 44HP Yanmar Engine, 6 Berths, solar, wind generator, BBQ, dinghy&outboard. AUD$90K. 085 3780 498, yacht.antaia@gmail.com.
Kawasaki 750Sxi Jet Ski Pro: Stand up. Trick conversion kit, R&D ride plate, Race bars with finger throttle, Hydro-turf floor mat with foot-holds, Very reliable, fast, and great fun. Very good condition. B150,000. Contact: garysmith436@btinternet.com.
Boat for sale: Boat for sale at Ao Yon Bay (Cape Panwa, Phuket). Boat has two engines 140 cc yamaha. 13+ 2 per persons. Price:550. 000B. Phone number : 083 637 9704 Thai/Eng and 081 894 9967.
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CLASSIFIEDS 25
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
BUY & SELL IN PHUKET
List your classified now at thephuketnews.com BOATS & YACHTS
Steppa Fiberglass 32 feet Flybridge two 200 hp Yamaha outboard engines. Ideal for diving and tours. B850,000. Call 081 894 2124.
Speed Boat For Sale:
PHUKET ICON BUSINESS FOR SALE
PHUKET INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS COMPANY FOR SALE LTD… SERVICES CO L A S R E IV N WORLD PHUKET U N WITH THE IO T C E N N O C HT PANDS YOUR FREIG S PHUKET EX GROWING A
Company for sale - Owner retiring Well known 12 year established company specializing in sales and rental of containers, site/sales offices, Porta Loos as well as Self Storage. Customer base includes Tesco Lotus, Laguna, Marriot, Boat Lagoon and many more. Enormous potential for expansion and export. A conservative value of company assets exceed 11MB which is included in the sale price of 14MB. Call Gordon 081 892 4804, www. safewayasia.com.
20 YEAR PROFITABLE OPERATION 50 MB PLUS TURNOVER 2012 CALANDAR YEAR 44’ Yacht - 8 berth layout with two bathrooms, B&G instruments and many options with Delivery to Phuket. THB 6,950,000, inq@sea-yss.com, www.sea-yss.com, 081 370 1995.
COMPANY FOR SALE
New Varianta 44’:
www.phukettransport.com CONTACT PETER: peterb@interglobalau.com PHONE: 0848433492
Restaurant for Sale Urgent!: Seafood Europain and
Rawai Restuarant for Sale:
A new premium Hanse with Sail Away options included - less than THB 4,500,000 in Phuket 0813701995 inq@sea-yss. com www.sea-yss.com, Person : Inq , Email : inq@sea-yss.com , Phone : 081 370 1995 .
Hanse 325 Max 2014:
BOAT & CAR FOR SALE!!:
Boat: Swedish imported Buster XL maid by aluminum 2 scow, Suzuki 4 stroke outboard Engine used only 200hrs, Brenderup-trailer + wakeboard + all needed accessories. Car: Mitsubishi Triton 4 wheel, only 6 years old. Boat and Car sells as a package or separate. For more information please contact: 0878772320 or E-mail:oliver@thurmanngroup.com, B1,350,000 .
H Y PA LO N D I N GY 3 . 3 M:
Brand-new with UV cover and storage cover, pump, oars, kits. Only B110,000 baht. Email: eddyelan@yahoo.com +66 89 971 0278, Eddie.
Private Luxury Yacht Charters: Luxury day & overnight yacht
Land area approx 3,800 sqm. Main road with twin house in compound. Big garden, mangoes, tamarind, banana trees and a large restaurant in middle. Good lease and low rent. Price : 1.3 MB. , Khun Asok, Rawai. big_redchili@ yahoo.com , 089 646 7176.
Bertram 505 Conver for sale:
Launched in 1989 this long range sport fishing vessel is powered by 2 Hino Marine 360hp V8 Turbo . The interior is fully air-conditioned and features a saloon, three cabins and a galley. Price : 7,000,000 THB , Stefano , info@thebigblues.com , 087 834 5293 .
A steal for a quick sale:
2007 Italian demo yacht Cranchi 47ft Hard Top. Fully loaded with Tropical air con, genset, Electrical winches, garage, roof, Raymarine Premium Navy, BBQ, Ice Maker, 3 Fridges, “Bose” Sound, 2007 Italian demo yacht Cranchi 47ft Hard Top. Fully loaded with Tropical air con, genset, Electrical winches, garage, roof, Raymarine Premium Navy, BBQ, Ice Maker, 3 Fridges, “Bose” Sound, Neon light, Twin 570HP with reliable shaft drive, under 300 hours, Brand New Condition. Euro 335,000. Tel: 089 971 0278, eddyelan@yahoo.com.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
Coffee shop/cafe/bar for sale: URGENT-fully equipped and
licensed,you walk in I walk out,can be changed to bar,2nd flr 3 bed a/c ff acc.3rd flr covered open area,2 x Honda clicks 4 rent,cheap rent paid to 2014. Price: 400K, rjpooklook@ hotmail.com, 094 316 1461.
Sport Club for Sale by Owner: Set on 4 rai land with
full chanote title. Include tennis court, volleyball court, fishing lake, game room, restaurant and bar and separate guest bungalow for sale or long term lease. Call +66 81 569 6026, +61 498 248 656 (English & Thai) Email:patbittersweet@gmail. com. See www.phuketsport.com.
13 Metre Wooden Hull Cruiser: Cap. 17 PAX. Wooden 2009 POWER CATAMARAN: 45ft. 4 cabins. Volvo D- 4 IPS 300. Genset. Aircon. “Bose” surround. Raymarine. Low hours. Fully loaded. Fast and economical. As new. Bargain. Only 339,000 euros. Email: eddyelan@ yahoo.com +66 89 971 0278, Eddie.
Car, Bike, Internet, Game shop: Car and Motorbike Rental with Internet and Gaming Shop. Well established, for sale 2 Million THB. bargain, near Rawai beach. Contact Mr. Brown 081 090 9640 e-mail: info@ phuket-car-rentals.de.
Bar for sale: Very Busy Mushroom
bar for sale in Soi Bel Air. Wally Bar, all stock, T.V. sound system, beer boxes and fridges included in sale, rent, only B10,000 monthly. Only B600,000 ono. 086 725 0771.
Business for sale
charters with crew & chef on board. Rates from 6 4,0 0 0 baht per day. Tel.0899710278, www.yacht-charterthailand.com.
Patong N ew Hot el for Longterm Lease: 40 rooms
hull, 3.5 metres W, draws 1.5 meters, diesel engine generates 123 KW. Perfect for fishing or day tours. Fitted w Fish Finder and GPS. Was B1,500,000 now only B500,000. Call 082 414 6931, email: phil@ krabikon nect.com.
with full furnished, TV, fridge, aircon, hot water, swimming pool, restaurant and spa. Located in Soi Nanai villa. Contact 086 300 9406.
Thai food in Patong close to beach and main shopping Jungceylon. First class equipment included pizza oven. Main road location, 350 sqm. Good lease cheap rent. Owner health problem must sell URGENT . Only 8 MB! kingcable_aaa@hotmail. com 087 036 8551 Adam.
Reduced for quick sale: 2 rai prime development land near Villa Market & the new Central Festival site, Laguna/ Bangtao area. Long registered leases THB 1,800,000. Minimal ground rent. Contact 087 884 0644.
Business only or business and property. Est 2003. Repeat business from big data base, non-tourist related soft furnising manufacturing and retail business. Genuine enquires only, no tyre kickers.
Russian Cuisine Restaurant:
Russian restaurant for sale. Located in the middle of Kata beach. Advertising on Radio and TV. Fully equipped and staffed. Price : B3,000,000, Konstantin, vladim1r@me.com, 082 417 2444.
Dive Center for sale: Once in a life time opportunity: Paradise Diving Asia Co.Ltd. is selling its 12 years established 5* Dive Center / Retail Shop in Phuket, Nai Yang plus it’s unique location and connections, paradisediver@live.com, 081 891 5539.
For further info email samos1941@gmail.com.
HOTEL / R ESTAUR A NT FOR LEASE: In Patong, High Cement Production Plant:
Laundry shop for sale: Laundry shop for sale located in The Promenade Plaza Nanai Rd Patong. Free deposit, free key money, Three month rent free sign contract direct to owner of Plaza. K. Jeeppy, 093 160 6566, The_promenade@hotmail.com
G u e s t h o u s e Ca f e B a r Karon Beach: Easily managed
profitable business lease 4.7M. Fully refurbished, 6 year contract (fully pre-paid). Low rent. Busy soi 2 minutes from the beach. 5 beautiful ensuite rooms. Sports bar, fully fitted kitchen and restaurant area. Account available. Tel: 081 891 9461 / livingroom-phuket.com.
Sale Bar, Hotel + 1 Shop Rawai Beach: Land plot
70 0 s q m e t r e + b u i l d i n g +10 b e d +10 b a t h +2 r e s t a u r a n t s . Newly renovated. Private financing by owner. Down B2 million + 13 yearly payment of 1MB. Own forever title land. 100 metres to Rawai landing pier. 084 242 8914, rawai4@yahoo.com.
Guest house & Business: For sale / rent long term. 400 sq m. (N.S.-3 K document) next to Swissotel Kamala. 500 m from Kamala beach. B32 million. Call 081 893 0540, 076 385 775 email: anong540@hotmail.com.
Ready Mixed Concrete Company’s factory. 446.92 Horse power. Output of workers in the production of 22 people per day at an average yield of about 100 Q/Day (B1,800/Q) average revenue per day for about B180,000. Manufacture of ready-mixed concrete. Can continue immediately. Just buy a cement truck then start delivery. Ready water source to be used for production. Address: Moo. 4 T. Maikhao Thalang Dist. Phuket 83110. Land Size: 20 rai 2 Ngan and 56 talang wah. Price: B130 Million. Contact: Mr. Lee, mobile: 081 803 7189.
Massage shop Patong: Due
to a relationship split we must sell this massage business in Nanai. 5 bed platform, 3 individual beds, 5 chairs, 2 toilets, 1 shower, staff accommodation, large premises, could add other business. All reasonable cash offers considered. B480,000, ur4236@yahoo.com, 083 594 1293.
Occupancy rate, per fect location, Easy to start business! High ranking on online travel agents, such as: booking.com, agoda. com, tripadvisor.com Legal, current and up to date contracts with overseas tour operators that have high sales volume and many loyal customers with repeat business. Current sales channels and property management software- you can run your business online from anywhere in the world. 30 rooms. Restaurant and terrace with 40 seats, huge roof terrace,kitchen fully equipped.7 years lease left, rent paid until 31.12.2013.Turnover 7,5 million baht/year, profit 2 million baht/year. Price: 7 million baht includes business, Thai company limited (CO.,LTD) with 3 work permits, and many legal things you don’t need to waste your time on if you started from scratch –Everything is included! Contact scandinavian owner directly (speaks English): e-mail shincorp1@yahoo. com.sg.
BAR ON BANGLA Boutique Guesthouse & Bar: Boutique Guesthouse, Bar /
Restaurant business for sale. Fully equipped rooms and bar, website and facebook page established. Well situated only three minutes walk from both Kamala beach and main road with all their amenities. B1,500,000. Contact: 084 442 7015.
@thephuketnews
For sale massage shop Pa r adi se: Ground floor
armchair,massage bed, cooking room, toilet, 1st floor 4 shower rooms. 2nd floor jacuzzi big room+bathroom.3rd floor 1 big r o o m+2 s m a ll r o o m s. 8 0 0,0 0 0 + 40,0 0 0/month c all Yves 081 895 1759 / 08 4 8 49 8 403 Bangboon(Thai).
In the front of a new discotheque in the center on Bangla Road. We have 5 bars for rent. They are prepared and can be used immediately. Best return of investment is guaranteed.
Please contact Khun Ay 081-895-7597
Car Rental Company for sale !
Fully equipped office, website with online booking, many customers. New cars. Risk free opportunity.Start to make money immediately.Only 5.5 MB. Contact 0867479292 or claudstrey@ gmail.com.
26 CLASSIFIEDS
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
BUY & SELL IN PHUKET BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
Restaurant for Sale Urgent!: Seafood Europain
and Thai food in Patong close to b e ac h an d m ain sh o p p in g Jungceylon. First class equipment included pizza oven. Main road location, 350 sqm. Good lease cheap rent. Owner health problem must sell URGENT . Only 8 MB! kingcable_aaa@hotmail.com 0870 368 551.
BACKGAMMON
086 951 5511, tonivanLaak@hotmail.com options, 37000 km, one owner, excellent condition, bought and serviced with the official Ford dealer Phuket (18 month warranty left). Only B1,050,000 Call Ilya: 082 804 9596.
COMMUNITY
Looking for a VISA Service?
MEMBERSHIPS
4x4, 37,000 on the clock, one owner. Excellent condition, regular service with official dealer ( 8 months warranty left ), insurance. 082 270 9030 or 082 804 9596.
The Seed Church Talang Phuket
Welcome to Sunday services: Thai: 10.00-12.30 AM and 7.30-9.30 PM. English: 2-4 PM. Free lunch and Sunday school for kids. Contact: K.Gung Tel: 076 -274975 - 6, 08 4 - 0567027 Email: yai_k@hotmail.com.
Farang Food Paradise:
Online health food in Thailand. Good karma, all natural, healthy, and organic products. Please contact 082 276 1675, w w w.good karmathailand.com.
Health Food:
Visa to China, India or Shenzen & no need to fly to Bangkok. Check all procedures by email to jryjariya@ gmail.com or contact 080 887 4431.
FORD WILDTR ACK 2012 ‘3.2’: Full options, Top model, Black,
BUSINESS SERVICES Your specialist of imported food and drinks in Phuket. Visit our shop at the Billion Plaza, opposite Tesco Lotus. Contact: 076 612 733, 076 248 900 or visit: www.phuketfood.com.
List your classified now at thephuketnews.com New in Phuket
FORD WILDTR ACK 2012 ‘3.2’: Black, Top model, full set of
BLUE CANYON GOLF MEMBERSHIP: Lifetime family membership to Phuket’s most prestigious golf course. THB 840,000 Includes transfer fee of THB 140,000. Email jerdek56-asia@yahoo.com or call/ sms 0818913051. Serious offers only.
MOTORBIKE FOR SALE
Mini Cooper S JCW GP for sale: Only 2000 made worldwide. Per fect condition, 20 0 6, manual, 17,500 km, 218 hp supercharged, high end hifi, Recaro seats, Book Service, Ultimate Mini. Collectors item. B1.6m, 089 866 3756 (Eng/Th) frankdreist@ hotmail.com.
Are you the boss here?:
Isuzu Dmax 2006, 105,000km, one owner, 4x2, silver automatic, double cab, good condition. Contact 087 079 0650 or 080 073 5371.
Isuzu Dmax:
REAL ITALIAN COFFEE: Free
HONDA CB500F FOR SALE:
coffee machines for biodegradable coffee capsules,6 blends:100%arabica,r obusta,organic,decaffeinated..BEST RESULT WITH MINIMUM EFFORT AND ZERO INVESTMENT,a real taste of Italy,call! 088 768 1260.
CARS FOR SALE
2010 Mazda 2 Hatchback:
CHILDCARE
New in 2010. I am an expat who is moving on and can’t take my Mazda with me. One owner, 32,000 accident free kilometers, auto trans, air bags, auto braking, etc. stephpkt@gmail.com.
Buds International School & Kindergarten: Phuket’s old-
TOYOTA CAMRY VI-2.4 V V TI G PS: Toyot a C a m r y
VI-2.4i,16V WT-i VSC(167hp)AT(only 77,000km)6 years. Integrated GPS,DVD,Bluetooth. Anti-spin and speed control, outdoor censors & rear-camera. Leather/wood interior.Only B760,000, 088 445 2800.
CHILDREN’S CLUB Family sports and leisure club. Swimming/golf/ playcentre/ gaming arcade. Contact 076 203 185, 087 882 5544. See funstartphuket.com.
FunStart:
LEXUS-4 door sedan 1.2million: Lexus 250, 2006, 2.5 V6 gaso-
line. Paddle shifter, Spor ts Drive. Brand new rims and tires. Travelled 93K. Recently Fully Serviced from dealership. Needs new owner ASAP. 082 282 6947 Dan.
CLUBS & MEMBERSHIPS Phuket Country Club Membership: Lifetime full family mem-
bership (man, wife and limitless kids) at Phuket Country Club. Seller leaving Phuket hence only B570,000 ono. Transfer fees and this years subscription included. Call 081 273 7326.
Isuzu D-max super platinum3.0L: Bought on 04/2010. Check up every 5,000 km, only 65,000 km on clock. Double Surround sound with USB, navigator, many extras. Price : B620,000. Norbert 080 878 3542 GER/ENG. Email: norberts923@ gmail.com.
G o l f M e m b e r ship fo r Sale: Loch Palm 500,000 Baht.
Buyer pays for transfer. 083 388 5566. Email borst.jg@gmail.com
Blue Canyon Golf Membership: Blue Canyon Golf Lifetime
membership for sale! Excellent saving! B89,500 Call 084 052 2277.
Thailand Pool Tables: Thai-
land Pool Tables is the Leading Billiard, Snooker and largest selection of game tables and accessories in Thailand. Price start from 40k – 100k. You can shop online at www. thailandpooltables.com, Call 085 797 0202, 085 797 0303.
Being young isn’t just FOR KID: Being young isn’t just
Invest in Swiss Stocks:
The best Swiss Stock Fund for Small and Mid Caps. Performance 2012: + 24 %, 2013: +30 % in Swiss Francs. www.swissactivealpha. ch or contact Mr. Niklaus Siegrist (engl./germ) 089 291 5437.
Harley Dyna FXDL for sale: Harley Davidson Dyna FXDL low rider. Perfect condition 100% maintained at Harley shop. New tires, brakes, filters. Comes with green book, saddle bags, rare Bangkok number plate. year 2000 B690.000 ,Leonor , Email : gietzelt@ gmail.com , 084 837 7249.
FOR KIDS! This Air Hockey Table is truly out of this world and one of the most unique game tables available. Big and small children will be lining up to get the next game! Complete your Game Room Now, Ying , ying@thailandpooltables. com ,085 797 0005 . Cruise Phuket in style. As new. 3 speed gears, disk/ drum brakes, comfortable riding position and plush saddle. Wide tyres and “chopper” forks. A must have for this season., Price : 32,000 , Person : Allan Mossop , Address : 393/2 Boi Ao Bang Tao 1, Cherng Talay, Phu , Email : allan@pipsphuket.com , Phone : 081 737 0722.
Cool Cruiser Bicycle:
MOVING & STORAGE SOVEREIGN Dining/Pool Tables : From Patanakarn Bil-
liards. 6FT start at only 64,500THB plus BIG discount or FREE Football table for Phuket Customers only!! Call NOW 081 171 2121 www.patana.co.th.
Furniture for Sale: European
style sofa and matching chairs 35,0 0 0 2 matching side tables 2,000 set Wooden dining table & 6 chairs 1.5m X 1.2m (extends to 1.5m) 10,000 Curtains (2) 5.74 X 2.4 8,000 Roman blind light brown color 1,000, 089 866 5887.
LEGAL
GENNEWA GOLD MEMBERS: Attention Gennewa Gold
Legal Consultant Company Registration Work Permit Visa Account & Audit Civil Criminal Litigation Property business Consultant Tax Planing Attorney Translation etc. 081 477 9154. partharn@hotmail.com.
POOL TABLES
English 082 516 8717, Thai 086 079 0890.
2 Kites, used 2-3 times. New price was more then 200,000 Baht. Sell altogether for 100,000 Baht. For single items. Please call: 086 747 9292 (English) or 081 970 520.
Storage you can buy quality moving and packing supplies like individual boxes, bubble wrap, packing tapes & knives plus secure padlocks. We also help you to move and store. Call 076 292 909.
Account & Legal Consultant
Pure Honda rotary mower, nearly new B20,000. Call
Kite Surf Equipment for Sale: 2 new boards, never used.
We Sell Boxes & Moving Supplies: At MY STORAGE Self
PUBLIC NOTICES
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS / VISAS
Let ’s Have Fun Outside : Breakout the norm! And let ’s explore outside with all weather pool table. Guaranteed Fun: Anytime… Any where! Thailand Pool Tables, w w w.thailandpooltables.com, Call 085 797 0202, 085 797 0303, email: ying@thailandpooltables.com.
SPORTING GOODS & EXERCISE
FINANCIAL
FURNITURE
est international childcare facility. High-quality, time proven schedule and curriculum. Now in brand-new purpose-built school. Experienced native English teachers to teach ages 1 1/2-10. Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Bus service available from Patong, Karon, Kata, Phuket, Rawai and Chalong. Tel:076 384 638, 080 624 7060(Eng)/087 278 5511(Thai) www.buds-phuket.com.
Are you the boss here? A great c o m b i n a t i o n i nve n t e d f o r t h e b o s s li ke yo u! C h e c k o ut o ur “ To k yo” Po o l Ta b l e ava i l a b l e i n d i f f e r e n t c o l o r s . We h a v e the largest selection of billiard, snooker and game tables. Ying , ying@thailandpooltables.com , 085 797 0005 .
HONDA CB50 0F for sale. Only 2 month old bike, 200 km after first maintenance. Charged with high performance parts worth 40,000 baht: Akrapovič carbon exhaust, new clutch and brake handle, fuel tank protection. Full one year accident insurance as a sweet bonus for the buyer. B180,000. Call Dmitry 095 546 3649 .
HONDA CITY '03 1.5AT, 118X X Xkm: Ver y reliably & friendly car, carefully used for last 3 years. Good condition with some wears. Clean interior, good car audio, fresh tires. Best choice for young family. Honda serviced only. Igor, Chalong, B280,000, 083 102 0070.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
members. Please contact urgently. randyalltime@gmail.com
Earn Extra w Coin Pool Tables: Earn Extra $$$$$ with our
Coin Pool Tables Make money while keeping your patrons enter tained! No risks..No Hassles.. We install, regularly maintain the tables and share all the income with you! Contact us Now.ying@thailandpooltables.com , 085 797 0005 .
Custom Trek MTB HardTail: Trek 8 Series Alu Frame, 20.5 inch (180 cm+) pimped in white. Fuji/ XT/ Deore drive train. XT SIS disk Brakes, Custom Alex/ Veulta wheels, Sock Shox SID Team front shox. SuperFly bike. Call 081 737 0722.
6FT Non-Coin and Coin-Operated Slate Pool Tables SPECIAL price at 49,700THB from Patanakarn Billiards PHUKET. All Accessories + Delivery incl. Call Now 081 171 2121, 076 521 211.
thephuketnews
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
SPORT
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
27
Thai orphans from Phuket Sunshine Village sail their dinghy boats in the waters surrounding Ao Yon beach during their weekly training session with the Phuket Youth Sailing Club.
Learning life through sailing SAILING J.P. Mestanza editor2@classactmedia.co.th
I
n October 2008, a simple ten-day sailing course changed the lives of several young Thai orphans. At the time, Akapot ‘Tik’ Kankearn was a shy 12-yearold living at Phuket Sunshine Village on Koh Sirae. But Katy Gooch-Firmin saw a natural sailor whose passion for the sport was already evident. “Our intention was to continue the course as a programme so the kids could learn to sail, but he took to it very well,” she says proudly. Fast forward to 2014 and a now 17-year-old Tik is teaching several young Thai children how to sail, attends university, and already has several sailing awards on his mantle. Through sailing, the Phuket Youth Sailing Club – headed by Topper Sail owners Katy Gooch-Firmin and her husband Paul Firmin – are able to teach Thai orphans not just how to steer their boats down wind and make turns, but also how to speak English in addition to other life skills. “They are meeting people just by going to another regatta competition. At the orphanage they live in a small place and that’s their world,” GoochFirmin says on a sunny morning at the Ao Yon-based club, “they need to be able to meet new people, know how to interact, and have that exposure for life.” Every Sunday, the club – which is open to children of all nationalities and backgrounds, Gooch-Firmin points out – hosts training sessions for kids from the Sunshine Village Currently, they have a @thephuketnews
group of about 20 Thai children that show up weekly for sailing lessons that last from about 10.30am to 4pm. The club serves them a hot meal, provides instruction in both English and Thai, and helps prepare them for upcoming competitions. Since some of the kids are under 10-yearsold, they still have to learn how to swim before being able to progress in the boats. “A lot of the kids from the home need time to get water confident,” Gooch-Firmin explains. “We start out with theory and then go out into the water. The basics take a long time to learn, and to race it could take up to a year, but it depends on how many times you go out.” “They’re really good at charades now,” Gooch-Firmin says laughing, admitting her Thai is not as sharp as their English has become.
Tik started racing about a year after that first lesson in 2008. He then placed second in the Optimist class (for kids under 15) at the Hua Hin Regatta in 2010 – his second competition ever. He then went on to win the King’s Cup Regatta Optimist Class in 2011, with a first place finish the following year in the Topper Class.
Similarly, Theerapong ‘New’ Tohkratoak started out training in 2009 at 11-years-old. Two years later, he placed third in the King’s Cup Regatta, just two places behind Tik in the Optimist Class. Through sailing, both Tik and New have been able to travel around Asia to compete – something that would have been difficult for them had it not been for sailing. Unfortunately, despite the club’s success at impacting lives for the better, a shortage of volunteers, a small budget, and natural disasters have become a challenge. The club was unable to send
any competitors to last year’s King’s Cup Regatta after a huge storm in November damaged several of their boats and destroyed the foundations of their beach in Ao Yon. “The beach was just gone for a while, our brick wall gave way. We couldn’t launch boats on anything out here,” GoochFirmin says. In February, the club hopes to compete in a competition in Malaysia, but with fuels costs and registration fees, they are looking at a B40,000 expense for six kids – an amount that might be too much. Still, Gooch-Firmin is positive that they will gather
enough resources to prosper. She is actively looking to turn the club, which is registered with the Phuket Sports Association, into a non-profit organisation with the potential to start a trust in the United Kingdom. “To race, it costs money. But if they don’t compete, the kids may lose that drive to continue and won’t be able to go out and meet other people. In the end, that’s what it’s all about,” she says. For more information or to contact for sponsorship, email phuketyouthsailing@gmail.com or call Katy Gooch-Firmin at 085 215 9185.
28 SPORT
THEPHUKETNEWS.COM
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
Laguna edge ICC in thriller CRICKET
M
atch seven of the Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) cricket league saw Laguna and ICC, both undefeated, square up against each other at the Alan Cooke Ground (ACG) last Sunday (January 26) – Australia Day and Indian Republic Day. The stakes were high as the winner would see themselves sitting alone atop the standings. The JLL league has seen some tightly contested matches this season and this one was the closest yet, with Laguna posting 197-9 from their 35-overs and snatching a win in the final over by just one run as they bowled out a valiant ICC for 196. Laguna won the toss and chose to bat first, hoping to put the runs on the board for ICC to chase down. After the loss of an early wicket, Manish Sadarangani (43) and Shoeib Mushtaq (29) consolidated to take Laguna through to 46-1 at the 12-over drinks break. They posted a valuable 69
Left: Paresh Borkar is bowled and ICC just fall short losing by 1 run. Right: Close call ICC batsman just makes his ground. Photos: Michael Way run partnership until Mushtaq fell in the 17th over, followed shortly thereafter by Sadarangani. However, Sameer Khan (51) and Roly Cooper (19) then combined for another valuable partnership of 82 runs which featured some big hitting from Khan including 3 sixes out of the ground. This key partnership set the platform for a final assault in the last 5 overs by Laguna who were 167-4 at the end of the 30th over. ICC, however, fought back well to contain Laguna who
could only manage to put on another 30 runs as they lost a flurry of wickets in the final phase of the innings, eventually ending on 197-9 after their 35 overs. After the lunch break, ICC set about the run chase in a very positive manner scoring at 5 runs per over until they lost opener Shah Ullah (9) with the score on 31. ICC were looking in a strong position heading into the 12 over drinks break until the lost 2 quick wickets in the 12th over to be 57-3. During the second 12 overs
of the innings, ICC continued to accumulate runs to edge closer to the target with captain Anand Chand (78) partnering with Syed Hussain (24) and Surendar Kumar (13), until Laguna struck back, removing Kumar in the 24th over. However, the key to victory was Chand, and Laguna finally achieved the break-through in the 29th over with ICC on 1607. With 30 runs required from the last 5 overs, the match was in the balance. While scoring at a run a ball was not beyond ICC, they only had 3 wickets in hand
and were now reliant up Iqbal Malik (30) to guide his side home to victory. Laguna got a lucky break when Pir Sami clean bowled him with the score on 190 early in the 34th over. This brought Paresh Borkar to the crease under enormous pressure, with only 8 runs required from 10 balls – a not insurmountable task – but even harder for a number 11 batsman. They edged closer in the final over with only 2 runs required from 3 balls, and it looked for all money ICC would inflict defeat upon Laguna.
However, Shoeib Mushtaq pushed a faster ball through to clean bowl Borkar and secure a thrilling victory. This Sunday (February 2) is Family Day at the Alan Cooke Ground and will feature a match-up between the Village, who are still looking for their first win of the season, against Laguna. After the match, mums, dads and kids will have a chance to play a friendly game out in the middle with a soft ball. Play starts at 10am. For more information, visit phuketcricketgroup.com.
Tennis pro serves for kids ALISA KLEYBANOVA, Russia’s former 20th-ranked tennis player in the world, joined a training session with a group of local youth in Phuket as part of the “Health Development to Excellence” project by Phuket Tennis Club and Thanyapura Phuket. Kleybanova, who is preparing at Thanyapura for the PTT Pattaya Open 2014 that starts January 26, used the opportunity to teach some professional techniques to some of Phuket’s young tennis stars. “Phuket is very lucky to have a professional tennis player here to train youth players, “Director of sports Authority of Thailand Phuket Office, Mr. Wirat Patee said,
Alisa Kleybanova poses during her tennis training session with local Phuket children near Provincial Hall. “It was a good occasion for our young tennis players to improve their skills.” Sports Academy Director of Thanyapura, Mr. Weeraphon Chonwiboon said “We took Alisa Kleybanova to join the
activities at the Tennis Court near The Provincial Hall as well to motivate young people and have a talk. At least it stimulates them to like playing tennis and improve their basic tennis skills.”
The Kingdom’s rugby league side played in Australia yesterday for the first time.
Thailand national team makes history in Sydney RUGBY LEAGUE
Over 90 Cities, One Perfect Gateway. SilkAir and Singapore Airlines Connecting you to Places.
THAILAND’S NATIONAL RUGBY league team played its first ever match in Australia when they took on Japan at Sydney’s Redfern Oval yesterday (January 30). Both teams are also competing in the Cabramatta International Nines tournament at Cabramatta on February 1. The Kingdom’s squad consists of 15 Australian-based players of Thai heritage as well as three Thailand-based players who received scholarships to undertake a series of programmes in Australia to learn more about the game.
The match has been sanctioned by the Rugby League International Federation and is considered to be a full international friendly. Organisers of the match, which is being billed as “a celebration of Thai heritage in Australia,” are hoping to engage Sydney’s strong Thai community for support. Rugby league history will also be made as three female referees will be in control of an international match for the first time. The Thailand team was founded in 2012 and has played in two Asia Cup tournaments. For more information, visit facebook. com/thailandstarsrl thephuketnews
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Phuket FC take on Chonburi FC FOOTBALL WITH FOUR STRAIGHT wins in January, Phuket FC will look to keep their winning streak going when they face off against a tough Chonburi side on Saturday (February 1). The visitors, who placed third in the Thai Premier League last year, are led by heralded midfielder Therdsak Chaiman. The Thai national team veteran helped the country win their third Tiger Cup (now, the AFF Suzuki Cup) in 2002 and was named the AFC Champions League most valuable player in 2003 during his stint with
Shanghai Shenhua. But Phuket FC have shown good form recently with a 2-0 win over Nakhon Sri Heritage in a friendly match at British International School Phuket last Monday (January 27). The day before, goals from Brazilians Ney Fabiano and Eber Henrique propelled Phuket FC past Brunei DPPM, a professional side from Singapore’s S. League, at Surakul Stadium. The matches are part of Phuket FC’s pre-season warm-up before the start of the Yamaha League 1 season, which kicks off February 22 against Pattaya United FC.
The rest of the pre-season schedule:
vs Chonburi - February 1 - Surakul Stadium - 6pm vs Songkhla Utd - February 9 - Surakul Stadium - 4pm vs Surat Thani FC - February 15 - Surakul Stadium 4pm
Fury over US$132k payment for Li Na TENNIS CHI N ESE OFFICI A L media and web users poured scorn on local government officials last week after they gave multi-millionaire tennis star Li Na an US$132,000 (B4.3 million ) reward for winning the Australian Open. Li was handed a giant red cheque by Wang Guosheng, governor of her home province of Hubei, as soon as she landed back from Melbourne last Monday (January 27). The 31-year-old had already received prize money of A$2.65 million (B76.7 million) for winning the Australian Open – her second Grand Slam title. Chinese internet users accused them of wasting taxpayers’ money that could have been used to address the needs of the poor. The official Xinhua news agency also weighed in, carrying a commentary on Wednesday that called the event “embarrassing” and @thephuketnews
“money-worshipping”. It cited Xiao Huanyu, a sports professor in Shanghai, as saying: “The government deems sports achievement a kind of political achievement. Therefore it needed to hand out the bonus to ‘show its face’ even though Li Na’s triumph had little to do with the government.” Li opted out of China’s rigid state sports system in 2008 to go it alone, hiring her own coaches and controlling more of her winnings. She was also given a bonus after her win at the French Open in 2011, though she donated it to a local nursing home. AFP
Swim stars praise TSLC SWIMMING
W
ith Thanyapura Sports and Leisure Club in Thalang becoming ground zero for world-class swim training in Thailand, it is no surprise that the Royal Dutch Swimming Federation has returned to the facilities to prepare for the European Aquatic Championships in August. Featuring a team of Olympic gold medalists, including the ‘world’s fastest woman in water’ Ranomi Kromowidjojo, the Dutch are poised for a big year. “It’s a great place to train – we’ve been all over the world and with the good facilities here it makes training really amazing,” Kromowidjojo said. She is joined by Marten van der Weijden, a Beijing gold medallist and holder of
From top: Royal Dutch Swimming Federation athletes during a training session; Olympic gold medallist Ranomi Kromowidjojo speaks to a group of local schoolchildren. every distance world record from 10 km up to open water 25 km. Fem ke Heemskerk, a 27-year-old swimmer who holds the world record for the
4 x 100 m freestyle relay on short and long courses, rounds out a solid Dutch squad that plans to come back annually until the Rio Olympics in 2016. Thanyapura’s pools have
been kept very busy recently, as they have already hosted the Norwegian national swim team and are also currently training the Hungarian national team as well.
30 SPORT
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
International rugby team captains (L-R) Ireland’s Paul O’Connell, Italy’s Sergio Parisse, Wales’s Sam Warburton, England’s Chris Robshaw, Scotland’s Kelly Brown, and France’s Pascal Pape pose with the Six Nations trophy during the official launch of the 2014 Six Nations International rugby tournament in London. Photo: AFP/Adrian Dennis
SIX NATIONS, ONE TITLE for the openside flanker position. Scotland will hope talented runner Stuart Hogg, who can play either full-back or fly-half, gets through the Championship unscathed after missing the November Test with a wrist problem
RUGBY UNION he Six Nations Championship gets underway tomorrow (February 1) as Wales looks to be the first country to win it three times in a row. Here is a look at all the teams ahead of their epic clashes.
T
Saint-Andre has had his players in camp and free of club commitments ahead of a tricky opener at home to England after long complaining about the punishing effects of the Top 14 on his squad.
ENGLAND
Finding a measure of fluency behind the scrum remains a concern for coach Stuart Lancaster just over a year out from England’s staging of the 2015 World Cup. Lancaster has again decided to go with Chris Robshaw as his captain in a clear sign that he expects the Harlequins’ man to lead England at the World Cup. There are those who insist Robshaw is not a ‘natural’ openside flanker but he has rarely let England down. Up front, the fact injured lock Geoff Parling, a line-out specialist, has been ruled out could pave the way for the dynamic Courtney Lawes to secure a second row spot.
FRANCE It’s hard to believe that France can be as bad as last season when they finished bottom of the table, winning only one of their five matches, lacking the cutting edge they ought to have given the talents still at their disposal. Losing captain Thierry Dusautoir to a torn bicep is a big blow but stand-in skipper Pascal Pape has done well to replace him. In centre Wesley Fofana, France have one of the best backs in Europe although he would benefit from quality quick ball, the better to cut through opposition defences.
ITALY In beating his native France last season, coach Jacques Brunel’s Azzurri blew the tournament wide open as they finished with a flourish in beating Ireland. Given their status as the ‘youngest’ of the Six Nations, progress in the Italian game is unlikely to always follow a steady upward curve but there are grounds for optimism. The squad are gaining in experience and have a determination to show there is more to game than mere forward power alone. In captain Sergio Parisse they have a a world-class back-row good enough to mix it in the frenzy of ruck and maul yet skilled enough with ball in hand to produce passing and playmaking worthy of a Test centre.
IRELAND A fascinating question is whether Ireland can sustain the intensity that so nearly carried them to victory over the All Blacks in November. This will be the final Six Nations before centre great Brian O’Driscoll’s retirement, who stands poised to eclipse Ronan O’Gara’s record of 128 Ireland caps. If he lacks the pace of his youth, the veteran is arguably still one of the best defensive midfielders, although the way in which he plays has often left his fans wincing on his behalf. Another Six Nations title to set alongside Ireland’s 2009 Grand Slam would be a special way for O’Driscoll to finish his career.
SCOTLAND Perhaps Scott Johnson’s greatest challenge in his final Six Nations before the Australian hands over the reins to Kiwi coach Vern Cotter at the end of the season, is to somehow find a way to boost Scotland’s try count. Johnson likes to keep his players on their toes and this is evident in the way in which Kelly Brown has been told he will captain the side provided he beats out Chris Fusaro
WALES History beckons for the defending champions as they go in search of a third straight title -- something no side has yet manageds. They may come up short against the southern hemisphere ‘big three’ but that’s no reason to think they will be any less of a force this year. Under coach Warren Gatland, Wales have developed an all-round game few opponents can match and even when things go wrong, as they did in last season’s opening defeat by Ireland, they have enough resilience to bounce back. Behind the scrum, Wales will look to full-back Leigh Halfpenny, last season’s man of the tournament and then man of the series for the British and Irish Lions, coached by Gatland, in their victorious tour of Australia. AFP
Note: As half of this week’s Eng-
lish Premier League matches did not kick-off as of press time, the EPL Predictions page will return in the February 7 issue. For the latest updates on The Phuket News Premier League Predictions competition, visit thephuketnews.com.
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Denver receiver inspired by jailed mom, grandma SUPER BOWL
F Deaf Seattle rusher living dream in Sunday’s final SUPER BOWL SEATTLE SEA H AW KS fullback Derrick Coleman has been deaf since he was three years old, but determination and hearing aids have helped him live a dream by reaching Sunday’s (February 2) Super Bowl. “If you have a disability you might have to work extra hard but you can do anything,” Coleman said, “I’m in the Super Bowl and the sky is the limit.” Coleman hears vague tones but with hearing aids amplifying voices and uncanny lip reading skill, he has been able to comprehend signals and reach the National Football League pinnacle in the title game against Denver. At age three, Coleman’s hearing began to fade. “It just up and left,” he said. “We still don’t know the reason.” Children teased him and sent him home in tears. “My mom had to go knocking on doors. She told me I had to prove them wrong. When people tell you you can’t do something, that’s motivation. Coleman, 23, has become an exceptional lip reader to help him understand play calls in huddles or when quarterback
Russell Wilson changes the play at the line and turns to tell Coleman before the rusher watches the center snap to know the play has started. “People like me are why coaches cover their mouths when they call plays,” he said. Coleman makes sure he has new batteries in his hearing aid before every game, a move that landed him an battery endorsement deal and a Super Bowl commercial. “He’s an extraordinary person,” Seattle coach Pete Carroll said. “He has demonstrated to others that have that issue how far you can take it and what you can do and how there are no boundaries” Riley Kovalcik, a hearingimpaired nine-year-old, wrote Coleman a letter that her father put on Twitter saying, “Dear my inspiration Derrick Coleman. I know how you feel. I also have hearing aids. Just try your best. I have faith in you.” Coleman tweeted back: “I want you to know that I always try my best in everything I do and have faith in you.” “I was looking on Twitter and I saw a lady from Australia and I said, ‘How did it get way over there?’ The fact it went all over is a blessing. I’m doing something right. I’m helping,” he said. AFP
Live Sports TV Schedule *Times may be subject to change
CHANNEL START
END
SPORT
EVENT
TEAMS / INFO
Cricket
2nd T20 Melbourne
Australia v. England
Friday, January 31 SS1
15:20
19:00
Saturday, February 1 814
21:25
23:30
Rugby Union
LV Cup
816
21:25
23:30
Rugby Union
Six Nations
23:55
02:00
Rugby Union
Six Nations
France v. England
Wales v. Italy
19:45
21:45
Soccer
EPL
Newcastle v. Sunderland
22:00
00:00
Soccer
EPL
Everton v. Arsenal
19:40
21:40
Soccer
EPL
West Ham v. Swansea
22:00
00:00
Soccer
EPL
Cardiff v. Norwich
812
22:00
00:00
Soccer
EPL
Stoke v. Man United
816
22:00
00:00
Soccer
EPL
Hull v. Tottenham
810
811
Sunday, February 2 22:00
23:50
Rugby Union
Heineken Cup
Scarlets v. Harlequins
813
20:30
22:30
Soccer
EPL
Swansea v. Tottenham
810
23:00
01:00
Soccer
EPL
Chelsea v. Man United
SS1
10:20
18:30
Cricket
ODI 3 - Sydney
Australia v. England
@thephuketnews
or most of his life Denver Broncos receiver Demaryius Thomas (pictured right) has only been able to see his mother and grandmother in prison, but they are inspiring him for Sunday’s Super Bowl. Katina Smith, his mother, and Minnie Pearl Thomas, his grandmother, will be watching from a federal minimum security prison in Tallahassee, Florida, when Thomas and his teammates face the Seattle Seahawks in New Jersey in the National Football League championship spectacle. “That drives me more, to know that they are in there and they are watching me,” Thomas said. “I try to go out there and play my best because they are going to talk about it to the people in the jailhouse.” Thomas, 26, was only 12 when his mother and grandmother were convicted of conspiring to possess crack cocaine with intent to distribute. Prior violations resulted in a life sentence for his grandmother. Smith is set to be released in 2017. Neither has ever seen him play in person. Having them taken from his life at a young age has had an impact on how Thomas plays American football.
“You never know. One day you can be here and the next day you will be gone,” he said. “So I take every day like it’s my last, I play every football game like it’s my last.” Thomas caught 92 passes for 1,430 yards and an NFLbest 14 touchdowns this season, the most popular target for Peyton Manning, who set NFL passing yardage and touchdowns records in 2013. Before and after every game Thomas receives a call
HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Run 1458: Saturday, February 1 at 4pm Hares: JC, Paper & Dr F****** Jeckyll Directions: Kamala Viewpoint. From Patong go 4.8km from the north end of the one way system. Turn right up the hill. From Kamala go south from Baan Rim Klong for 500m and turn left up the hill. Laager at the top of the hill. Bus pick-up: Patong: 14:30, Kamala: 15:00 More info: phuket-hhh.com
from his mother. “I can never call them. They have to call me,” he said. “My mom calls me before and after every game. My grandma tries to call me before every game.” It’s a brief conversation. “The most is probably three minutes,” Thomas said. Thomas, whose father was a US Army soldier in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait when his mother went to prison, was brought up by an aunt and
uncle in rural Georgia. He was also told not to trash-talk, unlike the Seattle defender who will guard him Sunday, Richard Sherman, who topped the NFL this season with eight interceptions on a defense that led the NFL in shutting down opponents. “I’m going to go out and try to make some plays so I don’t have anybody coming up to me saying I got shut down by Sherman,” Thomas said. AFP
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014
Thai orphans take to the high seas with Phuket Youth Sailing Club > page 27
Stuntman guns for th 6 world record
A
t 61-years-old, most people don’t expect to be the centre of attention anymore. Unless, that is, you happen to be Ian B. Jamieson, and continue to perform deathdefying stunts and lighting yourself on fire for the masses. On April 19, Jamieson will attempt one of his most daring stunts to date: riding
a 250cc motocross bike at 90 kph off a bike ramp and catapulting himself over rotating helicopter blades. The event, which will take place in Phuket’s 15,000-seat Surakul Stadium, is an attempt to secure Jamieson’s sixth world record. Currently, the Australian holds five world records: 270 m human torch fire run (without
a breathing apparatus); 35 m high fall into explosives while blindfolded; 29 m high fall while on fire into explosives; 16.45 m motor bike catapult over four cars; and a 38 m human catapult over five buses. As one of the world’s foremost stuntmen, Jamieson continues to consult on film and television shows around Asia and Australia. He has worked
with American stuntman Evil Knievel and has released a book about his life performing in Communist-era Poland called Kaskader (‘Stuntman’). Sponsors for the human catapult record at Surakul Stadium on April 19 are still being accepted. For more information, contact udomporn@paulpoole. co.th or call 086-382-9949.
Ian B. Jamieson currently holds five stunt world records, including a 35 m high fall while blindfolded into explosives, and a human catapult over several buses. The 61-year-old will attempt a sixth world record on April 19 in Phuket.
ICC backs ‘principles’ behind cricket shake-up CRICKET WORLD CRICKET WAS set for a shake-up after the International Cricket Council (ICC) gave “unanimous support” for “principles” to change its structure and governance. However, no sooner had the ICC presented a united front following the first of a two-day board meeting last Tuesday (January 28), that South Africa broke ranks. Prior to the meeting, Cricket South Africa had opposed leaked draft proposals designed to give the sport’s most financially powerful
‘Big Three’ nations of India, England and Australia a greater say in the running of the world game. But part of the leaked plan that provoked much criticism, namely the ‘Big Three’ being spared relegation in any new two-division Test set-up because of their commercial importance, was rejected by the ICC. “There will be an opportunity for all Members to play all formats of cricket on merit, with participation based on meritocracy; no immunity to any country, and no change to membership status,” the ICC said. The statement was clear
though in signalling the end of the proposed World Test Championship. Its delayed launch was supposed to happen in England in 2017. It has been replaced by the reprieved one-day Champions Trophy, a more commercial
proposition. The ‘mini World Cup’ was spared after a successful ‘final’ edition in England last year. Plans to bolster the position of the ‘Big Three’ include the formation of a new five-man executive committee, with
three seats reserved for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Cricket Australia (CA). Meanwhile the ICC board agreed to discontinue the centralised Future Tours Programme, designed to ensure the 10 leading countries hosted and toured one another during an eight-year span. Instead there will be a return to bilateral agreements between nations. These will run from 2015-2023 in common with the ICC’s next commercial rights cycle. And in a change to the leaked plan, South Africa were
included as recipients in a ‘Test Cricket fund’ which will be distributed by the ‘Big Three’ to all seven leading nations, where the fiveday game often struggles for support. There were reports the BCCI, which generates 80 per cent of ICC revenue on the back of the game’s popularity in India, threatened the ‘nuclear option’ of quitting ICC events if yet more money and authority did not come its way. The ICC appeared to bow to the inevitable in speaking of the “BCCI taking a central leadership responsibility”. AFP
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